five. reasons. to. create. a. squarespace. portfolio.

It's been a while (to say the least!), but rest assured I haven't abandoned this little corner of the internet! Far from it, actually! When I created this blog, I did so purely with the intent of having a creative outlet to write about fashion and share inspiring tidbits along the way — and thus, that's pretty much eliminated the pressure to constantly have new content up (quality > quantity). Although, don't be mistaken, I really would like to stick to an editorial calendar one of these days…
 
Before I get back to sharing my latest #OOTD (I actually have quite a few in the queue) and spotlighting my spring must-haves, I'm doing a rare career-related post. I finally bit the bullet and created a portfolio on Squarespace to spotlight my social media work (err, rather, case studies at the moment). As someone who likes to dabble in a lot of things, I found that having one digital portfolio wasn't enough. In addition to an about.me page (I prefer it over LinkedIn for networking purposes) and an account on Pressfolios to share my writing clips, I felt that it was time to add a visual portfolio to my repertoire. One in which I could share my personal aesthetic, creative direction and photography style (think: flatlays, doodles from Instagram Stories and stop motion animation).
 
Below, I'm sharing five reasons to create a portfolio on Squarespace. Just as a disclaimer: This post is in no way suggesting that Wix, Weebly or any other website builder isn't as worthy. I'm just going off of my personal experience and what has worked for me. :)
 
1. Intuitive and Easy to Use: Three words: No coding necessary. While other website builders may require a bit of a learning curve, Squarespace is easy to use from the get-go. Unless you're savvy with html, this is a MAJOR selling point in my book. Spend some time exploring all the features and customization options, and you'll 10/10 get the results you're looking for. And if not, there's always Google and Squarespace support, amirite?
 
2. Professional Looking Templates: Prior to using Squarespace, I often found myself feeling uninspired by the lack of aesthetically pleasing templates. They were either too cookie-cutter and bland or not dynamic enough to support the variety of content I was hoping to be sharing. Not only are all the templates on Squarespace SUPER pretty to look at and easily customizable, but there's literally oodles and oodles to choose from. Seeing as to how there's a category for everything from "art & design" to "community & non-profit" to "travel & lifestyle," you really can't go wrong.

I ended up installing the Jasper template (you can read about it below) due to its clean and minimalist aesthetic. I like how the landing page features hoverable photos that function as teasers to individual "case studies." It also included an about page and moodboard, which I really appreciated. 

Showcase your work and engage potential clients with Jasper. This portfolio template creates an enticing visual summary of your projects with a dynamic grid-style homepage. Page animations, scaling fonts, and page headers display your work in a bold and immersive way. The special Project Pages arrange images, titles, and captions into elegant layouts, giving your visitors a story-driven experience.

3. Caters to Creative Types: Whether you're an artist, a photographer, a freelance writer or any creative type, Squarespace caters to the design-centric crowd with their dynamic page designs (infinite scroll, full screen + hi-res photos, etc.) and slideshow interface that is excellent for showing off your work. 

4. Integrated Social Media Feeds + Tons of Add-Ons: Those of you with a background in social media, PR and marketing will especially appreciate the social media integration feature. (Connect your accounts, add social media icons to the footer of your page and/or embed your Instagram feed directly onto your site). Being a visual enthusiast, I like to think that my snaps on Instagram serve as a visual representation of my whimsical nature and creative spirit. It's a way for potential employers and clients to get to know me prior to even connecting.

5. Just the Thing to Launch Your Side Hustle: So you're ready to offer your services — now what? Squarespace could be the first step to bringing your dream career or side hustle to fruition. Perhaps you're launching an online shop (yes, there are templates for that!) or are in the process of creating your own social media consultancy business. Or maybe you're a self-taught photographer or freelance graphic designer looking to get the ball rolling. When you're branching out, getting your name out there is everything. Each Squarespace subscription includes a domain name (aka, the name of your website), so be sure to pick something that's SEO-friendly. Of course, you'll also want to add a contact page — something that's very easily achievable with Squarespace's form block. 

**Bonus: Pssst: If you're a student with an academic email address, you can receive 50% off your first full year of Squarespace. While Squarespace isn't a free website builder, I am so, SO pleased with the outcome. See more info regarding pricing here.
 
With all that said, please do check out my newly launched portfolio! And do LMK if you're seeking a social media intern or know of someone who is! I'm literally just trying to gain experience at this point, so don't hesitate to reach out to me — if even just to chat or network!

Any questions?! Leave 'em below in the comments section and I'll get back to you!

xo,
A

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modern. map. art. // new. york. city.

If you know me at all, then you’re well aware of my love affair with New York City. In fact, I just returned from my annual summer trip (and may or may not be plotting a return visit as we speak…), so the timing of this post couldn’t be more fitting. Today, I want to put Modern Map Art on your radar — a company that reimagines city street maps into contemporary wall prints, iPhone cases, you name it.
 
One of Modern Map Art’s city prints could be the newest addition to your gallery wall or it could be the *perfect* gift for a BFF who’s currently living out her post-graduate dreams in a new city. Study abroad in Barcelona, Spain or Paris, France? There’s a map for that! Don’t worry, I’ve already checked and there’s even a print for Vienna, Austria. <3     

The folks over at Modern Map Art generously sent over one of their 8x10 NYC map prints ($29.99), and I honestly couldn’t be more pleased with the presentation of the museum-quality matte poster. The design of the map itself is unique in that the print showcases highways, waterways, major landmarks and mass transit system lines (you really have to get out the magnifying glass to scope out all the minuscule details!). As far as customization options go, you have your pick of size (from 8x10 to 24x36) and color (I prefer the black/white, but you could go crazy with navy/orange if that’s more your aesthetic). Don’t see your city represented? Modern Map Art will work with you on a custom order to make your vision a reality.

    
What to expect? Speedy shipping and safe delivery (your print will be placed in a tube for crease-free travels). Not only does my NYC print appear exactly as photographed online, but it has the feel of a commissioned print. AKA, it’s not something you’re going to stumble across at just any old street fair. While I still need to find a frame and matting for it, I imagine that my print will look super sleek in a minimalist black lacquer gallery frame. Speaking of which, the map print of your choice would be ideal for a curated gallery wall (you wouldn’t believe how many NYC-themed prints I’ve accumulated over the years!), an office or even a college dorm. 

You can find Modern Map Art on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter! 

Which city would you purchase a map print for, and more importantly, where would you hang it? Comment below!

xo,
A

Disclaimer: While this is not a sponsored post, Modern Map Art was kind enough to send me a New York City street map poster for review. Please note that all opinions expressed in this blog post are my own.

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five. for. friday.

Just in time for the weekend, I've rounded up five interesting/noteworthy/potentially random things that are currently on my radar.  I thoroughly enjoy how this whole "five for friday" series is going even if I only get around to posting an installment every few weeks.  Hopefully, you've been finding it at least somewhat insightful, too!  Here we go... 

All photographs featured above are courtesy of the corresponding websites as cited below.

1. Oh Joy! for Band-Aid (Oh Joy!) // Too.  Stinkin'.  Cute.  That's all I'm saying.  First I was obsessed with Cynthia Rowley's collaboration with Band-Aid way back when, and now I can't get enough of the Oh Joy! x Band-Aid collab.  In a nutshell, think really pretty colors + fun, whimsical designs.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Alexa Chung's July Cover Shoot (Harper's Bazaar UK) // Tell everyone you know, Alexa Chung is on the cover of Harper's Bazaar UK's July issue. I don't know about you, but I love A. Chung.  She's the ultimate cool-girl with a great sense of humor and an even more killer style to match.  That said, this behind-the-scenes video is a gem.

3. How to Design for Your Brand (Canva) // Whether you have a business or not, branding is super important.  It may sound crazy, but everyone has a personal brand (yes, including you!).  I, myself, shouldn't be talking as my brand (read: resume, online portfolio, this blog!) could use a facelift of sorts.  When going through my webmail, I stumbled upon a link to this branding resource that walks you through colors, fonts and all that jazz.  While a lot of the info is a refresher, it's still valuable to know when crafting your brand. (BTW, I actually find Canva Design School in general to be a helpful resource.)   

4. Burberry Prorsum Menswear Spring/Summer 2016 (Burberry) // I feel like I've professed my love for Burberry one too many times.  Well, here we go again... Normally I don't make it a point to watch the menswear runway shows, but after seeing so many snippets and previews on Instagram, I couldn't NOT watch it.  I'm so glad that I did, because as per usual, the clothes were tailored + undeniably British with hints of lace popping up everywhere.  Oh, and, Christopher Bailey enlisted Rhodes (an up-and-coming artist) to perform at the presentation alongside a live orchestra.  NBD.

5. These Sugar Cones Just Got a Major Upgrade (Cupcakes and Cashmere) // I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!  If you love ice cream (and sprinkles!) as much as I do, then you're going to get a kick out of these fancy sugar cones that you can decorate at home.  These just may give Ben & Jerry's a run for their money...

What piqued your interest this week? Feel free to share a link to your weekly roundup or leave a comment below!

xo,

A

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garance. doré. x. rifle. paper. co.

Image via garancedore.fr

Sometimes collaborations are just meant to be.  The stars align and everything falls seamlessly into place.  As far as stationery collaborations go, I can’t imagine a more perfect union than one between Rifle Paper Co. and fashion photographer, illustrator and writer Garance Doré.

Upon first glance, I knew that it was going to be good.  An acute attention to detail paired with seriously impeccable fashion illustrations combine to form a high-quality product that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional.  Those of you, like myself, who have an unwavering obsession with all things paper are in for a special treat.

As luck would have it, both Anna Bond (co-owner and creative director at Rifle Paper Co.) and Garance Doré share an appreciation for gorgeous illustrations and designs. It seems that timing was everything.  Despite this being Rifle Paper Co.’s first capsule collection, when Doré reached out to Bond, her answer was a resounding “yes.”  The fact that they were both already fans of each other’s work makes the launch of their line even sweeter.

Photo via garancedore.fr

On their joint venture, Bond said:  “I have worked closely with Garance to guide her illustrations into products, art direct the look and style of the collection, and design each item. We are bringing Rifle’s attention to detail, product quality, and expertise to a group of products that are new and unique yet complementary to our own brand.”

The line includes stationery, notebooks, greeting cards, calendars and even iPhone cases.  Let me tell you, the illustrations are as Parisian chic as they come, all featuring attractive script fonts and a soft, muted color palette.

Photo by @annariflebond

A notebook is more than just a journal to record thoughts in; how it looks and feels speaks volumes too. As Doré told Style.com, “illustrations ought to be something you can carry with you.”  Maybe I don’t need a new notebook per se, but it’s safe to say that I secretly want one anyway!

So classy, refined, and sophisticated, if this stationery collection doesn’t knock your socks off, I don’t know what will.  While the Garance Doré x Rifle Paper Co. line already had its official debut at Paris retailer Colette, the launch date in the US couldn’t come soon enough.  Arriving Spring 2014, look out for it any day now!

xo,
A

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