What I Learned from 2018

January 1, 2019

WEARING: PAISLEY JACKET | BLUE JEANS | CREAM FUZZY SWEATER

STAY ON THE TRAIN, THE SCENERY WILL CHANGE.

Life is a continuation of sorts - uphill battles, downfalls, and all the in between. And sometimes even in life’s most ordinary cycles, it seems nothing will ever change, improve, progress to your liking. Even if it is at a snail’s pace because yes, amazing things take time to cultivate I still struggle with the idea of remaining patient while continuing to be diligent in whatever I’m trying to accomplish. I truly sometimes think that no matter how hard I may try at something, it’s never going to be ‘good enough’ and that perhaps I will never grow. But after this year, I couldn’t be farther from the truth. Learning my strengths in the face of adversity definitely have shown that through discipline, perseverance and yes, a little bit of stubbornness will take you places. But you have to stay on the train.

YOU CANNOT CHANGE PEOPLE, ONLY YOUR REACTION.

And if you can’t change your reaction, then change your environment. For example, when you have to repeatedly tell a friend what they’re doing wrong (we’re talking moral values and such). If at some point they’re not getting it, it’s not your issue it’s theirs. Distance yourself from people who suck the living life out of you. There are all sorts of leechers out there and no one deserves to be taken advantage of. This goes for money, emotional manipulation and then some. Another example, I did a test shoot with a model a while back and was trying to take a street style shot with the person in the middle of the street with the Empire State building in the background. But no matter how I reacted in directing this person to be ‘in the middle of the street’, I shit you not, they did not understand. At some point I had to literally pin the person at the very center of the street and said, “Don’t move”, “stand still”… and YES they moved. So I eventually changed my environment because I knew it wasn’t working. Hahaha! :)

YOU CATCH MORE FLIES WITH HONEY THAN VINEGAR

Unfortunately, life doesn’t always turn out they way you thought it was going to turn out. And it’s easier to be spiteful, bitter and even down right vindictive over life’s unfairness. Sadly, I even saw this in my father near the end of his life. The first time I took a trip to New York, I came back so excited to share my experiences and all the photos I took. My mother found it exciting, even courageous, to want to venture out into the world. My father couldn’t barely stand to look at the photos, only to say one thing, that he hated New York and when I asked him if he had ever even visited the city and said no, he had no reasons other than negative ones to behave this way. I, too, can sometimes get angry at what life has thrown at me, like how I lost both of my parent before the age of 30 and yes I ask all the time, “why couldn’t You just have left me at least one?!” Or why I don’t have a single family member to even call when I’m feeling down. You just have to look at it this way, in that things don’t just happen. There’s a reason and rhyme to everything, and with a more positive, I guess sweeter, perspective, you’ll be sure to find your way. If I stayed bitter over my losses in life, I never would have found my way to my husband, my dog, MaQ, or even this blog that I consider to be my baby! And yes, in the caption’s saying - it is always better to be nice rather than rude too.

ALWAYS STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE

I challenge myself on a daily basis in this living mantra. Especially when life’s daily routines become a bit too routine and nothing exciting is really going on. This year I took my very first solo international trip to London for work (loving it so much I did it again six months later). And even though for most people, it’s not a big deal, for me, someone who does suffer from anxiety, had a lot of nerves about it. But I took a leap of faith, and just went! Best decision ever, as it has really helped me grow personally and professionally. Not ready for something like that? Start small. Go to an event or party, be more social if not already - or start a new hobby you know that’ll make you a little nervous… maybe archery? That would make ME nervous! Ha ha! I think sometimes being impulsive is a good thing, because it pushes you to your limits (NO shopaholics do not apply LMAO) and you discover that you’re capable of so much more than you could even imagine.

EMBRACE YOU!

Yes, I still have trouble in loving my whole entire self. We all have flaws, insecurities, weaknesses, vices, etc; but you know what is truly amazing? No one is you and that is your power! How incredible is that… you’re one of a kind and unlike anyone else on this planet?! No one else can be you - you are loved and amazing just the way you are. I think too with age, you accept yourself more and more because you know that’s the way it’s going to be. So you might as well love your eccentricities, quirks and all - inside and out! I’m starting to more and more share this side of me on the blog and I think you guys too, really dig it! So yes, I always think the topic of self-love is a self-realization in growth for every year of my life.

I don’t want to go on and on about what I learned from this past year where I start to sound cheesy or too lecture-y. So, I’m going to leave it off with see you soon, wishing you all the best in the New Year, and yes, sending you Love & Light with all my heart. MaQ + Suz would not exist without its readers and we are extremely grateful for each and every one of you! So thank you as always, for the continued love and support of our brand, as we truly work very hard every single day to try and bring you the best styled creative images in the world of fashion, beauty, lifestyle and more.

Side note: ha ha! The paisley blazer from this post is by Saku New York, the cream fuzzy sweater is from H&M and the jeans are Levi’s. Hope you guys enjoyed our very first post on MaQ + Suz for 2019! What are some of the lessons you have learned from this past year? Don’t forget to drop them down in the comment section below! We would love to hear yours! Happy New Year, Happy 2019 and many, many blessings.

LOVE & XX’S,

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Just a General Making Sure My Soldier's Straight

August 6, 2018

WEARING: L'ATISTE FRINGE JUMPSUIT | TELEPORT SHOES BOOTS | SUNGLASS WAREHOUSE PRESLEY

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY L'ATISTE AND SUNGLASS WAREHOUSE.

This past week I left a question up on my IG stories asking you guys to drop questions relating to blogging. There were so many that I could no way put it in my usual Sunday IG post, where I've been selecting ten and answer them. So today's post is dedicated to a selected ten questions I've chosen to answer relating to my work and the world of blogging, which is more like the Wild Wild West. Just a General making sure my shoulder's straight ;) Continue reading to learn more about my experiences as a full-time blogger, where today marks three years since M + S launched. Happy Blogiversary to me and Happy Monday to you!

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO START BLOGGING?

Right before I started MaQ + Suz, I had endured some pretty heavy-duty, life-changing experiences which encouraged and led me to my new platform. Along with my desire to find an outlet where I could put both my visual eye and the written word together at the same time had always been apparent, but it wasn’t until I entered the world of blogging before everything came full circle.

WHAT’S A TYPICAL DAY LIKE AS A BLOGGER?

Every day is different depending on my schedule for that week, such as what deadlines are approaching, upcoming events and so on. Overall, I spend over 40+ hours a week working on the blog and that includes responding to emails, meetings, posting on social media, editing photos, writing blog posts, working on SEO, going out for photoshoots and events, writing contracts - the list goes on and on and on. We have shoots every day so I try to stick to a routine that way I don't have to organize as much. So I usually start my mornings with emails, walking the pooch, a photo shoot, and/or meetings/events. It's never a day off when it comes to my job and there's just never enough hours in a day to get it all done.

HOW DO YOU GAIN MORE FOLLOWERS?

I get this question a lot and I have to say it's really all about the quality of your content! This, and being consistent every day and being patient. Remember, the number of followers you have is just a number. What's important is the engagement you have with your audience and what you do every day to give them something that makes them want to follow you. That being a source of inspiration, or a special skill one can learn from, it should be something that makes you stand out and be unique. Now if you're in this for instant-gratification, I'm telling you right off the bat, don't do it! Gaining a substantial amount of readers/followers takes TIME and a ton of work. You have to be okay with the fact that it could take years.

Also, AUTHENTICITY. I believe if you stay true to yourself and your branding image, along with high-quality content, then new and old followers will genuinely want to follow you and your business. Sharing the process of your journey keeps things real and I love people for that, and I know others will love you for it too!

So here are a few tips to help you grow your audience:

Create Killer Content – The more often you do something the better you'll get at it. And that goes for content, whether you're behind or in front of the camera, don't be afraid to think outside the box, take risks, and try new things you'd normally not try. This will help you find your aesthetic/style.
Post Daily – Consistency is key. I can't tell you how many times back in the earlier days when I wouldn't post every single day and my engagement dropped nearly half its size. YIKES! Don't be out of sight, out of mind in terms of posting!!!
Engage With Your Audience – I always try to comment back on comments whether its on IG or the blog, but I also comment others within my niche.
Tags & Hashtags – Yes you should abuse the #30 rule for IG. Don't be shy to tag promo accounts within your niche to get a possible repost after using their hashtag of some kind. You can tag up to 20 accounts in a single IG post. So take advantage!

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE DEMANDS/PRESSURES OF WHAT YOUR JOB?

As demanding as it can get, I take perseverance & determination, hard work, and discipline and yet at the same time it also requires you to not take yourself too seriously. Otherwise, it’ll no longer be fun anymore and life is also meant to be enjoyed. I guess it’s all about finding your own balance, and everyone has a different path and in variated times in our lives.

WHAT CAMERAS/LENS DO YOU USE?

Canon 5D models, Olympus EMD-5, lens Canon 28-135mm 3.5/5.6

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO GROW YOUR FOLLOWING & WHEN DID YOU START TO BLOG?

I launched my blog in August of 2015. For the first year or so, I really didn't know what I was doing. I wasn't sure what my niche was, how I wanted to brand my image, etc; and most of the time felt completely lost. I experimented with a lot of different topics from interviews to meet and connect with other like-minded people in my field as well as attending events to network. Once I started to hone in on my style I felt more confident in pursuing blogging full-time. In two short years, I've gained over 35K on Instagram with a total reach of over 70k. I work with global brands such as L'Oréal, Aveda, Kiehl's, Dove and more & have been featured in WWD, BFA and Getty Images.

HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN A BLOG/LIFE BALANCE?

It's always important to prioritize what you NEED to get done versus what you want to get done. Now that I do this full-time, I am always on deadlines, so these come first. Afterward, it's a matter of what else I can get done for that day. I never feel like I get enough done every day, but it's only because there's so much and so many hours in a day! Learning to accept what I cannot control has helped me so much, and has kept me grounded. I'm not as hard as I am on myself (which is super difficult for me, if you know me at all) as I can be onto to others just as much. Also, taking it easy more and more is actually healthy and well-balanced. For example, I rarely ever work on Sunday mornings.

WHAT DO YOU DO ON THOSE REALLY BAD DAYS?

Whenever I’m having a pretty awful day, I cut myself loose and leave the ‘office’ for the day. I’ll go and take a long walk with my German Shepherd, MaQ and the city always is an escapism from another escapism. New York has a way of clearing your head and at the same time eating you alive (if you’re not careful enough). And sometimes there are days that’ll defeat you, where you’ll feel so bad about everything that getting up seems hard enough on its own. But then I think of all the shit that’s brought me to where I am today and I do believe I made it here for a reason. Perhaps the past has made me who I am today, but it has certainly motivated me to keep going and to keep pushing boundaries I didn’t think were possible. You have to keep on keepin’ on…

HOW DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION FOR CONTENT?

I gather inspiration from everywhere. The sights and sounds of the city. From traveling. From people watching. Food, books, music, film. The list is endless. If I ever find myself in a rut in terms of finding inspiration for content, I just take a break from thinking too hard about it and enjoy a good book/film, walk, bath, etc; and it always comes to me. If really stuck I am not afraid to ask my readers for feedback and what they want to see more of. Listen to your audience!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER BLOGGERS?

Word HARD. Be NICE to people. Always appreciate what you have rather than wanting what you may not have (yet). Just because someone else's journey is on a different (maybe even faster/or so you think) path than your doesn't define you or your work! It's not the destination that matters, it's what we go through along the way that does which is what I try to share with you guys more and more. And, the glasses are ALWAYS half-full, guys, I swear! 🙂

LOVE & XX'S,

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Periwinkle Floral Dress

June 18, 2018

WEARING: ZEFINKA BOHO FLORAL DRESS | EGO BOOTS | ALLES BAGS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZEFINKA.

Got a case of the Monday Blues? Fear no more! This dress will kick any start of the week's ass! It's really great for summer as the material is thin and super breathable for even those hot summer nights! As usual, I love to do mix-plays on styles, combining them together and making them work! So in today's post, I'm combining this very bohemian blue floral dress with some of my more edgier staple pieces in my accessories. Think biker chic mixed with the boho! Continue reading to see the complete shoot (let's just say we had fun shooting in the wind!) and to directly shop the items to kickstart this Monday! Woo Hoo!

My blogger babes will relate to this. Ever go out to shoot and you get to your location, everything is set up, you get to your first frame and suddenly the weather becomes uncooperative. Gusts of wind, God forbid downpouring rain, hail, sleet, snow, or all of the above, there's nothing more frustrating than not having any control over Mother Nature. This happened while shooting this dress, but instead of whining about the strong winds I embraced it while laughing and dancing! So when creating content, there are no excuses, and you should be able to get something out of it if you're a true creator. Obviously, you don't want to shoot a bright-colored sunny outfit in crappy rainy weather, as the aesthetics may not complement well with each other, but then again, how do you know until you try? Like Tim Gunn says, "Make it work!" and just adapt. Any blogger using an excuse of a rainy day for not being able to shoot is just lazy and not as ambitious as they 'claim'. #SorryNotSorry

Of course, I adore floral prints and the color periwinkle. It's probably one of my most favorite colors, ever! And I just love this dress from Zefinka. At only $34, the price is right with the quality of the dress. It's tailored to fit you well along with very cute black tassels at the sleeve to keep with the boho feels of the floral print. I paired the dress with my black Ego boots and black fringe bucket bag from Alles Bags. I think the dress would work well with black open toe heels for the summer or even a pair of light blue espadrilles, but I went with something a little different to show you how much you can style with just one dress! You can even tuck it into jeans or a skirt and make the dress into a floral top! I know that would look very chic as well.

It's going to be hot as hell in the city today so if you're in town, be sure to stay cool and stay hydrated! So so important, especially when the humidity is legit unbearable. Ugh. Good thing I have a ton of editing to do indoors. If you need me, you can find me behind my computer for the next couple of days. I have a few exciting events later in the week that I can't wait to share with you guys so be sure to follow me on Instagram to follow along on my stories! Have a great week everyone, catch y'all back on here very soon

LOVE & XX'S,

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8 Ways to Stop Being So Hard on Yourself

March 13, 2018

WEARING: LUCIE BROCHARD FUSCHIA MEN JACKET | LUCIE BROCHARD WHITE TOP | 
OT LEGGINGS BURGUNDY LEATHER | NAT & NIN GIULIA FRINGE BAG | FRED MARZO BOOTS | 
ACCRUE KANDINSKY SUNNIES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY KREATEURS.

Happy Tuesday! If you know me by now, you definitely know how hard I can be on myself. It's not the best feature I've acquired through the years, as this, in turn, makes me be hard on those around me as well. I have been through a lot in my life and the way I grew up also affected the way I perceive life sometimes. It can be a roller coaster ride; at times I really feel like I'm on the right track, that I know where I'm at and what I'm supposed to be doing, and then other times I'm curled up into a ball, crying, and wondering what I am doing with my life and that the only explanation is my crazy self. Ah, the sweet cycle of a creative person. So in today's post, I'm sharing my tips on how to not be so hard on yourself - I'm not perfect by any means, but I've been doing a lot of soul-searching and these suggestions have greatly helped me balance it out much more than I have my entire life! Continue reading to learn more from these 8 tips.

1. HAVE REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS

Your mistakes are part of your learning experience. It's okay to fail. We are only, human, after all. What's not okay is to give up. Learn to be resilient in the face of failure. And when presented with an opportunity: Run with it, don't have any kind of expectations! If you do, you're already setting yourself up for disappointment.

2. THE PAST IS NOT YOUR IDENTITY.

Yes, the past usually is filled with heartache and pain, and a plethora of mistakes. We have all gone through the good, bad and yes, the ugly. And though the past will shape you into what you will become, it doesn't dictate your entire YOU. It's not easy to put the past behind, but that's where it's meant to stay. Don't look back, learn from the lessons (they're in everything, just LOOK) and keep on keeping on, but moving forward.

3. LEARN FROM PEOPLE WHO CRITICIZE YOU.

Don't let their critics get you down. That's the easy way out! Let it inspire you to work your ass off. Now it should be constructive criticism and not a case of bashing/bullying/doesn't know what the hell they're talking about, and instead of shutting out any form of feedback, learn to take it with a grain of salt. Let that motivate you to learn and grow.

4. ACCEPT YOUR WEAKNESS AS YOUR FEATURES TOO.

We all embrace our strengths, but what about our flaws? You can't be good at everything you do (trust me I've tried), but nobody else is, either! Loving everything about yourself also means accepting the not so perfect parts. Change doesn't happen overnight, but if you're willing to work on yourself while being aware of what it is, that's pretty commendable. But don't fight it, be okay with everything you are.

5. WHAT MAKES YOUR PROBLEMS BIGGER THAN ANYONE ELSE'S?

Not going to lie, in the past my answer used to be, "They're MINE." But now that I'm older (and hopefully a little wiser) my answer is that every single problem you have is NOT unique. Put your problems in perspective, just turn on the TV and watch the news to get a glimpse of the bigger picture, and trust me, you will solve your problems faster.

6. DON'T GET MAD, GET EVEN.

We all go through feelings of anger, resentment and more. What you do with these emotions is completely on you! Feel your anger, express it (in a productive manner) and learn from it. It's like that saying, "take your broken heart and make it into art." Same ideology applies when it comes to being really pissed off. Make use of that negative energy and put it forth to something better.

7. AFFIRMATIONS ARE KIND OF GROOVY.

Are you able to look at yourself in the mirror every day and go, "Wow, despite my imperfections, I'm a pretty awesome human being! Go ME!", or something to that effect, then yeah, I'd say affirmations go a long way. Instead of pointing out what you don't like about yourself because let's face it, that's a little too easy to do... why not make note of the little things you actually do love about yourself? Face that mirror and give affirmations on what you love about yourself. That positive energy will translate in more than one way, I promise!

8. CHALLENGE YOUR NEGATIVE INNER CRITIC

Or as I call it, "The Bully Voice". Shut that bitch down. It's easier to let negativity win rather than the positive. When my mind starts to play tricks on me, saying "I'm not good enough" or, "This will never happen", etc; you have to smack that voice upside the head until its gone. How to do to that? Take your mind off of it, go for a run, go have a drink, talk to a friend, distract yourself with some spring cleaning. Positivity will always outweigh the negative.

What are some of your tips/suggestions on not being so hard on yourself? Would love to hear from you guys so leave a comment at the end of this post with your own advice! As always, you can shop the look at the beginning or end of each blog post. Who is feeling this fuschia men's jacket/blazer as much as me right now?! Doesn't it just scream spring? I'm ready, are you? :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Lucie Brochard Tropical White Cotton Shirt

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Crispy White & Windowpane Print

January 22, 2018

WEARING: SHEIN DRAPE COLLAR GRID LONGLINE COAT | SHEIN FRINGE PATCH MESH TOP |
 J BRAND JEANS | NINE WEST YEMETRA POINTY TOE PUMPS | ROSEGAL SILVER BEAD HOOPS | 
ACCRUE KANDINSKY SUNGLASSES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SHEIN, NINE WEST, & ACCRUE.

Happy Monday guys! Have you seen my latest posts on Instagram? I've been super pumped to share this new outfit post! It's minimal chic and has one of my favorite patterns as of late: the windowpane print! It looks like a grid of some kind, and definitely polishes up any look, either dressing up or dressing down. You'll definitely be seeing more of this coat next month during my travels! But to the more important question... where is this coat from and where can you get it? Continue reading to find out and also to see one of my dream collaborations come true! I've been wearing their shoes since I was a teen. (Since I have the teeniest Asian feet I have to be more selective when it comes to shoe brands as not all brands carry my size!) Trust me, when you see this pair, not only will you be coveting hardcore - you'll want them in EVERY color!

Not too long ago I worked with a very well-known skincare brand that I have been using since I was a teenager. (See post here.) I sometimes feel the need to pinch myself (but really no.) with some of the partnerships I've had in the past year. Some are global brands and I feel so privileged to be working with people/brands that are just as passionate and hard-working as I am. And with that, I'm so excited to share my collab with Nine West! When I first got into the digital media world, I never imagined I'd be working with some of the incredible brands I work with now. To even think I've worked with some of them still baffles me. It really goes to show you that if you want it bad enough and are willing to work your butt off, the results will be amazing. Just like these pointy toe white pumps. I can't get over how comfortable these heels are. They have a padded insole for all-day comfort. A high top line and a triangular stacked heel can freshen up any kind of look. From jeans to a dress and more, these shoes are extremely versatile and aesthetically pleasing. Want to buy 'em? Check the link on Instagram and also at the end of this blog post. As always, I leave shopping links at the end of each article.

The plaid, windowpane patterned coat that I raved about in the beginning of this post is from SHEIN Official. SHEIN prides itself on offering on-trend styles catering to both young women and teens, that won’t break the bank. SHEIN is able to stay on top of the latest fashion trends from around the globe while rapidly bringing these styles to market. So whether you’re searching for boho dresses and graphic tees or patterned blouses and chic swimwear, SHEIN is the ultimate one-stop-shop for the modern yet economical fashionista. The coat is meant for spring or fall, but I'm all about the layering game when it comes to winter time. The only factor that is missing from this coat is definitely a belt. But you can style it with your own accessories to give it a unique feel.

The fringe patch mesh blouse is also from SHEIN. The waistline is high-rise and the top overall is quite elegant. It would go great with a midi skirt or jeans. Even a wide leg pant would do. I think I'll be wearing this blouse a lot in the next coming weeks. When it came to styling these pieces, I wanted to mix in a bit of edge as it's my style. I've never been one to wear pearls or douse myself in millennial pink (not that there's any shame in that!), so I decided to finish the look with a pair of faded black skinny jeans from J Brand and sleek silver hoop earrings from Rosegal. My nail polish is by Essie in 'Blanc' - I don't know why but I'm obsessed with white nails during the winter time. I believe it really gives a crisp touch to an outfit, what do you think?

Lastly, how beautiful are my new sunglasses?! They're from a Korean-based brand called Accrue. I'm completely in love! Use my discount code, ‘ILOVEACCRUE’ for 15% off your purchase. For more go to www.accrue.kr How are we feeling about this outfit? Do you like to mix different feelings in a look like myself? What's your favorite 'concoction' when it comes to styling all the new (and old) trends? Please drop a comment down below (and don't forget to shop as well!) ;) I love hearing from my readers - you guys always give the best feedback! Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead, catch y'all back on M + S real soon!