I spent this past weekend in Chicago with one of my best friends attending the Simply Stylist Fashion and Beauty Conference on Saturday at the gorgeous Dana Hotel & Spa. I met some new bloggers and also really enjoyed hearing the panelists talk about their careers and passions in the fashion and beauty industries. It is so motivating to hear other people tell their stories of struggle and success. There was an undeniable feeling of support and encouragement from all the women who spoke on the panel! I was very impressed with their honesty and advice.
One of the panelists, Annie Finch of Katherine Cosmetics said something that really stuck with me while being interviewed by Catt Sadler. She said. "Whatever you are doing, be the best you can be at it!" She started out at a beauty counter in the beginning of her career and she learned early on that hard work stands out in the crowd. She unpacked boxes of shipment in college just to be in the beauty department. She quickly moved her way up in the company and eventually was a top executive at one of the biggest cosmetics companies in the world and worked there for 23 years before starting her own company.
I loved her story and was truly inspired to hear it!
Everyone who spoke at the conference had a unique and motivating story to share. I think one common thread throughout everyone was that they all had a passion for something and they worked on it ambitiously until something came out of it. Sometimes working internships making little to nothing, waiting tables, and working full time jobs all at the same time! Sometimes it's easy to give up and feel like what you are doing doesn't matter or won't pay off in the end, but I think if it's something you enjoy and it feels right then go with it!
Dress {Marshalls} Bag {Alice + Joy from Marshalls} Sandals {Charming Charlie} Sunglasses{LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's} Earrings {Hello Cheeseburger} Bracelet {Target sold out but I like this one} |
Catt Sadler of E! News |
{Wendy Nguyen of Wendy's Lookbook,}{ Stephanie Mark Co-Founder of The Coveteur} {Allison Cooke of CS Magazine} {Annie Finch Founder of Katherine Cosmetics} |
Make sure to check out my Instagram @Jana_Meister for more photos from the conference.
I had a great time in Chicago and would love to go back to Simply Stylist again next year!
Thank you to my amazing friend Holly for taking my outfit pics :)