Flawed but Still Worthy

August 4, 2017

WEARING: ZAFUL HIGH LOW LONGLINE STRIPED SHIRT | BDG JEANS | 
GUCCI BELT | DANIEL WELLINGTON WATCH | PUMA 'CLYDE' SNAEAKERS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZAFUL & DANIEL WELLINGTON.

"I DON'T KNOW A PERFECT PERSON. I ONLY KNOW FLAWED PEOPLE WHO ARE STILL WORTH LOVING." - JOHN GREEN

Do you ever have moments where you focus more on your flaws rather than your strengths? Even though it may be Friday, I've got a bad case of the "bully voice" today. I've been going through a lot in the past year and have had a tendency to focus on my faults, because to me, if you can recognize them, the likelier the chance you'll have of being a better person. To begin with I'm very hard on myself and put extra pressure to always strive for better, to learn more; do more. When it comes to my work, I always am thinking it can be improved in some way, shape or form. Because I'm difficult on myself, I can be hard to those I care for as well. But it's only because I see the worth in them and I too want what's best for them, regardless the circumstance.

I'm not afraid of conflict (Hello, Aries) and even though I will tell you exactly how it is (which can be a bit bumpy for those who are non-confrontational) - it's only because I want the most out of whatever it may be for the both of us. Whether it's coming to an understanding or correcting a mistake, I don't have trouble calling out on someone when necessary. And though it's a strength, it can sometimes bite me in the ass. Especially with emotions involved. I can be sensitive and when hurt I tend to let my feelings get the best of me. Instead of keeping cool all the time, I do too make mistakes and flare up like a bad case of rosacea. I'm only human after all.

I didn't even want to post content today, to be honest with you guys. It's one of those days where I feel like I just don't have it in me, but I continue to persevere: I don't give up easily and I certainly won't have anyone get the best of me. Because I'm stronger than that. I'm a fighter. And you are too. Remember, the next time you feel unworthy, stop and think of all the wonderful qualities you carry, not the negative ones. Think of your friends and family who love and care for you and think the world of you, because you're important. And if anyone wants to make you feel less than what you're worth, drop them to the curb immediately. No matter how much you may feel for them. This in itself is not worth your time. Time to say goodbye. But always keep your glass half-full.

Special shout out to Zaful for the amazing high low longline striped shirt and to Daniel Wellington for the new sleek summer watch, in white! How fresh is this piece?! Use my code, 'SUZANNESPIEGOSKI' to receive 15% off your purchase at Daniel Wellington. And can we talk about this location from this shoot? I was in lighting Heaven. Nothing makes me happier than shooting in natural light. What's your favorite form of light to shoot in? What are your thoughts from this post? Don't forget to drop a comment and if you dig this outfit, feel free to shop directly down below! Wishing you all a fantastic weekend filled with Love + Light. Always. xx.

LOVE & XX'S,

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Favorite Place to Shoot Pool in New York City

July 3, 2017

WEARING: FOREVER 21 WHITE SHIRT | VAGABOND HONEY JAKARTA DENIM PANTS | 
POTROL FAUX LEATHER NEON YELLOW HOLSTER PURSE | GUCCI BELT | 
STEVE MADDEN BLACK ANKLE BOOTS

HAIR & MAKEUP BY: BEAUTY DIRECTOR VALERIE STAR OF CARAVAN NYC.

This post is sponsored by ForRent.com but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Well, ya got trouble, my friend, right here,
I say, trouble right here in River City.
Why sure I'm a billiard player,
Certainly mighty proud I say
I'm always mighty proud to say it.
I consider that the hours I spend
With a cue in my hand are golden.

–

Though I have called the East Village, home, for the past ten and a half years, (have been living in New York City for over 11) my new stomping grounds are now Union Square. This section's unmatched diversity brings together poets, professionals, protesters, and everyone in between. Anchored by its central plaza, Union Square extends into surrounding streets filled with a mix of corporate giants and neighborhood staples. Farmer’s markets and street performers add to Union Square’s cultural significance and popular appeal. A place where I can shake off the stress and get away from the day, Amsterdam Billiards is one of my favorite hangouts in New York City, and one of the many new perks of living in Union Square. In today's post, I'll be sharing with you guys reasons why Union Square is a great section in the city to live in along with why this is my favorite pool parlor in the entire city.

Now I'm not exactly, 'the Black Widow', but I've had my fair share in shooting pool. I've been playing since I was a kid, my uncle used to have a pool table in his 'man cave' and I think that's where the interest initially sparked. For whatever reason, I find the game relaxing and enjoyable with friends. And my favorite billiard to shoot pool in in New York City is this place in Union Square, Amsterdam Billiards. It's got 25 billiards tables plus Ping-Pong, darts, foosball, full bar & food but what stands out to me are the memories of this place with the people I love. My husband, my friends - we've had some good laughs and games in this joint. So now that it's the long holiday weekend and I'm staying in town, I thought it'd be nice to go back and play on top of sharing a place I hold dear to my heart. New York has a way of doing that to you.

Another favorite place in my new neighborhood would definitely be The Strand, a landmark bookshop that carries new, used & rare books that literally stretches for 18 miles. I stop in there at least a couple of times of week, whether it's searching in the half-off bins outside or checking out the photography section for inspiration and research, it is a really amazing book store. Union Square also has two great music venues, Webster Hall and Irving Plaza. I also enjoy the Greenmarket for its fresh flowers and herbs. When I have the time, I love to pick out fish or meat to cook and experiment a new recipe with, especially during the summer alongside some squash and corn.

Other stores I don't live without are Adorama for all my camera/photography needs, New York Costumes for props, Sephora for makeup and skincare, and Food Emporium for groceries. When going out to eat around the neighborhood, I love L'Express for French, Barn Joo for Korean, Blue Water Grill for seafood and Maison Kayser for pastries. Recent new pasta discovery in Union Square? Vapiano, where their basil pesto with pine nuts and parmesan is TO. DIE. FOR. The famous Coffeeshop is where I have a lot of my meetings midday. It's a cool people-watching place while dining al fresco. And the staff's not too bad-looking either... ;)

Living somewhere like New York City is competitive let alone expensive, but with its amazing food, entertainment, culture, beautiful sights and so much to do, the highlights sort of outweigh all of the chaos that goes on in a city such as the one I love. It's definitely not the easiest place to live, but if you keep your eye on the ball, you can set out to do a lot more than you think. What are some of your favorite sections in New York City? If you could live in any one of them, which one would you like to live in? If you're considering moving to and living in New York City, check out ForRent.Com, an apartment rental listing service where potential renters can search for professionally managed apartments. Got questions about living here? I'd love to answer! Leave them in the comments down below or you can find me on one of my social media channels! Have a wonderful start to your week and Happy Fourth of July!

LOVE & XX'S,

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Potrol Faux Leather Neon Yellow Holster Purse

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Detroitish

June 29, 2017

WEARING: INK DETROIT TEE | DEZZAL ASSYMETRIC MERMAID SKIRT | 
& OTHER STORIES FISHNET SOCKS | HUSH PUPPIES MAZIN CAYTO NUBUCK BOOTS 
| STELLA & DOT GOLD AND BLACK FRINGE NECKLACE

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY DEZZAL, HUSH PUPPIES & STELLA & DOT.

DETROIT IS LIKE ROCK AND ROLL. IT'S LIKE SOUL. DETROIT IS THE WHOLE IDEA OF COOL. IF YOU HAVE TO EXPLAIN IT TO SOMEONE, THEY PROBABLY WON'T UNDERSTAND. YOU HAVE TO SEE IT. LIVE IT. BE IT. THAT'S WHEN DETROIT STARTS TO MOVE YOU.

Hello, my darlings! Are you excited for the long holiday weekend? Summer time and the livin' is easy... or so to speak. Got any special plans? I used to be a huge fan of the Fourth of July when my pops was around, but his passing, which was a few days after Independence Day, has changed my ways of celebrating. I used to go out and watch the fireworks, but since he's been gone, I find it too hard to do, let alone celebrate anything. I'm a very private person and getting myself to open up to you guys has been challenging, and quite frankly, a little terrifying. Af first I thought no one would listen. No one would care. But as time has gone on, I have become more courageous in telling my story. Am I ready to tell-all? Oh hell, nah. Some things are better left unsaid. But with baby steps and perhaps when the timing is right, I believe I will slowly but surely share more about myself. In today's post, I'll be discussing two topics. One, how to get through jury duty easily and as painlessly as possible. And two, I'll be talking about copycats and if imitation really is the best form of flattery.

Miraculously I only served jury duty for one day. Now before you go and get your hopes up, know that most cases you'll serve for at least 2-3 days. But some of the tips I'm about to give you has nothing to do with getting out of it faster. It is a civic duty and most of us take it for granted. Just like paying your taxes or voting in this country, it is something you have to do. But while you're stuck at the courthouse for eight hours a day, why not have it go as fast as possible? So instead of twiddling your thumbs while you watch the clock, bring a shit ton of reading materials, whether, on your iPad, or a newspaper and/or a book, you're going to have to keep that mind of yours occupied. Not much of a reader? (We can't be friends if you're not... haha JK!) You can play games or stay engaged on social media with your phone or laptop. Or you can do what I did, the moment I sat down at 9 am sharp, I whipped out my laptop and went straight to work.

Another tip while serving jury duty? If you're a heavy snacker like me (I don't eat 3 square meals a day, but rather on average, snack non-stop throughout the day instead... a heavy lunch makes me lethargic, and as Gordon Gekko once said, "lunch is for wimps") make sure to bring a lot of single dollar bills for the vending machine. You can't bring in food or drinks through security (just like the airport) so be prepared to have some singles to get through the day and to keep your belly happy. Bathrooms and the courts, in general, are pretty skeevy so be sure to bring hand sanitizer. Sometimes the bathrooms will have no more soap or paper towel to dry your hands, so even keeping a package of tissues with you would be good. Lastly, bring a jacket or cardigan especially if you serve during the summer because they normally crank the AC full blast in these buildings, especially in the courtrooms.

And now onto copycatting. I've been reading a lot from other bloggers and influencers about their frustrations in others copping their creative concepts or even worse, flat out re-doing the same shit they saw someone else do. (literally from head-to-toe outfits, same travel itineraries and more.) I've even read somewhere about influencers wanting to copyright their own work. Guess what, folks? Most creative ideas and/or concepts have been done since the dawn of time and have been recycled and done over and over again but in different ways. So when it comes to fashion, no, nothing is exactly your own invention. There may be inspirational or admirable factors (and yes, the dreadful SWF factor... I've experienced it and it's creepy AF), but to think you were the first to come up with an idea, you better think again. The challenge is to try and find something that hasn't been done before and actually seeking out to do it! I can't tell you how many times I've seen others try to do what others do, and it's cute, perhaps even flattering to some, but don't hold it against them. Why? Because... YOU are YOU, and that is your POWER. They can try all they want to be like you, but at the end of the day, that'll never be.

Going back to my roots in Detroit, as a kid, I used to get made fun of for liking X-Men comic books and wanting to go out and be Batman rather than Cinderella. When I hit adolescence, I was known for being, 'flat as a board', 'chink', and other derogatory names I don't feel worthy of mentioning. Fast forward to now, half of the kids that used to pick on me are now trolling through each and every one of my Insta Stories and through my other social media channels. I've never received an apology, nor do I ever expect one, but now I think it's all comical. Why are they watching? Because I'm doing me and they're doing them, and I can guarantee my life is much more interesting than it was back in high school. I see 'em, but I don't acknowledge them. The same goes for anyone who can't be true to themselves. Why do you want to be anyone other than yourself? One of the most powerful tools to have in life is authenticity! Without it, there's really not much else to go by. So is imitation the best form of flattery? Nope. Don't be basic. (As the 'millennials' call it.) Here's something to go by, INSPIRE, NOT IMITATE.

LOVE & XX'S,

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Stella & Dot Gold & Black Fringe Necklace

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Cosmopolitan: Let's Talk About It Event

June 25, 2017

WEARING: NATIVE YOUTH RUST HIGH NECK BLOCK JERSEY SWEATER | 
MARSHALL FIELD'S FAUX CROC SATCHEL BAG | ALDO BUGIANO STUDDED ANKLE BOOTIES | 
STELLA & DOT GOLD AND BLACK FRINGE NECKLACE | AE CHAMBRAY SHIRT

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY COSMOPOLITAN, NATIVE YOUTH, AND STELLA & DOT.

"KILL THEM WITH COMPETENCE."

Yesterday's 'Let's Talk About It' event with Cosmopolitan helped others find their voice on topics that some (wrong) people consider taboo for women to talk about and more. Busting taboos around money & power, sex & romance, beauty & image, happiness and more, it was an inspiring, and empowering way to spend a Saturday. Kicking off the morning with 'humming in' with sound therapy practitioner, Sara Auster, and CEO of MNDFL, Ellie Burrows, the entire room suddenly felt like I was surrounded by hundreds of bees near its main nest. It was strange yet communal... zen. Practicing meditation helps one focus on themselves and who they really are. It was a unique opener and a wonderful way to bring us together.

The seminar was welcomed by Editor-in-Chief of Cosmopolitan, Michele Promaulayko, and her first panel of boss women, television personality, host, fashion designer, singer, actress and author of There's No F*cking Secret: Letters From a Badass Bitch, Kelly Osbourne, acclaimed TV journalist, woman's empowerment advocate and author of the upcoming book, Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back, Gretchen Carlson, and CEO of, The Pink Ceiling, and the woman behind the 'female viagra', Addyi, Cindy Whitehead.

Self-acceptance, struggles in the workforce and yes, sex, was among some of the general topics discussed in the opening panel. I think my favorite moment from that panel was Kelly Osbourne's story about being bullied as a kid. At first, she confided in her mother, Sharon, and told her to go back to school the following day and tell the girls that were picking on her that if they didn't stop, she'd have her father bite their heads off. LMAO. But when that didn't work, she then went to her father, Ozzy. And surprisingly enough, his advice was to basically tattletale on them. He told her to tell the girls they had one last chance to do right and if they didn't stop, she would report them. And sending that kind of message to your daughter, that your voice is the most powerful force within you, is such an important lesson to learn, let alone acquire.

The second segment focused on money, power & work. The panel included Director of Editorial and Business Development of Cosmopolitan & Seventeen, Laura Brounstein, journalist & author of, Feminist Fight Club, Jessica Bennett, and women's leadership expert, Chief Leadership Officer for LEVO & author of, Drop the Ball, Tiffany Dufu. Heavy talks of the balance between your work life and personal life were extremely central to everyone, along with great tips for it. For example, Tiffany Dufu, said people respond to authenticity. “Embrace the imperfection,” she said. “Do what you need to do in order to be the kind of leader that people will resonate with." And I think this applies to everywhere in life, not just on Instagram. 9/10 times I want to work with someone because they're real with me, not because they're putting up a front that they're perfect. Because no one is that.

When Jessica Bennett was first starting her career, she felt uneasy about self-promotion. Her male co-workers, however, had no trouble shamelessly doing so — and got all the credit and raises. Then she and her friend came up with a strategy and became each other’s “boast bitches.” “When I did something good, she would send a mass email to all of our editors, being like, ‘Did you see this great thing that Jess did? It was really amazing!’ And I would do the same for her.” No good deed goes unpunished? Not in this case. It's selfless, they're both supporting one another and at the same time feeling good doing it and feeling good about themselves. And they finally got the credit they deserved.

Another favorite segment was the sex talk with Digital Special Projects Director for Cosmopolitan, Seventeen, & Redbook, Elisa Benson, actor & host of his own hit podcast, The Love Bomb, Nico Tortorella, and founder & host of the Sex with Emily podcast, Dr. Emily Morse. Dr. Morse encouraged women to talk about what they need from their partners in the bedroom but to not talk about it in the bedroom. Rather in a more relaxed setting, like at brunch, or over coffee. "Make it more casual," she said. "You just kind of throw it out there, not like a we need to talk." Another tip? Do it in the car or on the subway. It's a place where you can talk about awkward issues without making eye contact. And reinforce, reinforce, reinforce! It goes a long way, especially before giving some feedback that might not exactly be A+.

After lunch, there was a dance-off with the founder & creator of DanceBody, Katia Pryce, where she had the entire room gyrating together in a full circle. It was yet another great way to bring everyone together and to prepare everybody for what's next, which was the part where we all sat around each other in the same circle and went around telling the room what our current ambitions were. Many wanted love, happiness and more. Better jobs, bigger houses, more time with their loved ones... and I have to admit, when it comes down to it, we really all want the same things in life. To love and be loved in return, to find joy in the bittersweetness of life; to belong to something, to be accepted and appreciated. To have much purpose and to fulfill your dreams. To just be at peace.

And the Cosmopolitan conference did just that for me and helped me recognize what really matters and what doesn't. What's your current ambition? To answer mine, I would honestly say that I am striving to be a better wife and mommy to my fur child because, with the crazy amount of work I've been doing in the past year, the amount of time I have with them is really scarce. Sure, I work with my husband constantly, but that doesn't count for quality time. And my pup has been missing me being home and spending time with him. So I'm definitely working on that challenging balance in life as well. This event also reminded me how powerful our voices really can be. I think if we can continue to spread the gift of courage, in that the more we speak up about things we shouldn't necessarily talk about or are subject to taboo, the more we will all see that it can help and inspire others to break free from their silence. Thanks for stopping by and reading about my Cosmopolitan adventures! Don't forget to comment your ambitions down below!

LOVE & XX'S,

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Native Youth Rust High Neck Block Jersey Dress

Marshall Field's Faux Green Croc Satchel Bag

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To Know You Is to Love You

June 17, 2017

WEARING: VIP ME BLUE VINTAGE EMBROIDERY BELTED MAXI DENIM DRESS | 
BLACK BANDANA PAISLEY

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY VIP ME.

I'VE GOT THE BLUES...

I lost him. Suddenly and unexpectedly. When my brother made the call, I thought at first he was playing a cruel joke on me. Then the shock factor waved in. I cried the entire plane ride home. After I handled my affairs though that's when I nearly lost it. My heart was broken. Hell, it still is. His death led to my estrangement from my family. They all turned their back on me. Some even betrayed me. I'm haunted by words left unsaid. And the pain still to this day is sometimes too unbearable to take. I miss his wistful smile and the sounds from his guitar. I miss our long talks in the car when we'd drive 'up North' to visit those we loved. I miss seeking his advice and him letting me cry on his shoulder until I soaked the entire damn shirt. I miss my father.

I have my mother's spirit, but I have his soul. I love what he loved. Music, books, cars, boxing... German Shepherd dogs. When he was a kid my father had taken in a female German Shepherd that was abandoned and had named her Lady. But he lost her too soon when she was hit by a car and died in his arms. He was so crushed he wore her chain collar around his neck afterward, even leading some of the kids at school poking fun at him for wearing it and resulting in a fight. She was his everything. I respect this breed for the same reasons my father did; loyal, dedicated, courageous, intelligent and loving. They are the ideal family dog. Even at an early age, I begged my parents to have one, but my mother refused. Opposite reasons for what my father wanted, she had lost her Keeshond while living in California, and I think it hurt her so badly, she didn't even want to risk having me or my brother go through the same thing. Now as a grown-ass woman, I have to say, that getting my German Shepherd dog, MaQ, was one of the best things I have ever done in my life.

One of our favorite films we loved to watch was 1979's boxing movie, The Champ. Even to this day, I still get all choked up when watching any boxing film. There is so much heart in the sport. I know some might not care for the violence, but that's not what it's about. In the boxing ring of life, it's not how hard you can hit, but rather how many times you can get hit and keep moving forward. That's what I see in a good fighter, in any sport for that matter. Someone who is full of adversity and still has the will to persevere. Whether in the ring or out of it, no one likes a quitter. And when anyone gives up, I guarantee you they don't feel good about it.

What I really miss is hearing him play in the background growing up as a child. He had his own 'man cave' down in the basement, and once he plugged in the amp to one of his electric guitars, you could hear him jamming all the way up from the second floor. (I grew up in a duplex house) As much as my mother hated it, I found it to be rather soothing in a rollercoaster type of childhood. I had always encouraged him to try and make a demo, and I know I sound biased with what I'm about to say next because I'm his daughter, but he was very talented. When he played the blues, you could feel the pain. Guitars cry too, you know. It's kind of like opera or ballet, either you get it or you don't. I believe there takes a certain type of person to play the blues well. And my father was the epitome of that.

My father has been without me for nearly five years now, and it was only last year since his death where I even had the courage to take out and look at the only guitar had left in his possession. It is a gorgeous ruby red Ovation Guitar, and I find it so fitting he chose such a color as him and I are both Aries's. Our element is fire and color is red, and our birthdays are two days apart. I'm March 24 and his, the 26th. I'm similar to him in many ways, some good, and some not so good, but I do take pride in who I am. Like my father, I can be stubborn, cocky, impatient, blunt, even sometimes slightly intimidating but I am also generous, kind, loving and true. I don't let my friends down and would give a stranger the shirt off my back if that's all I had left. And I too, can sometimes not have the guts to go after something because I fear I may not be good enough. I don't think this was entirely the case with my father, but his reason for never making a demo tape was his love for playing and not anything else.

I think if you're passionate about something like my father was with music and playing the guitar, you should continue to pursue it and not just consider it as a hobby. So in honor of Father's Day on Sunday, I wanted to share with you some bits and pieces of him, like his guitar in this post, along with his Fender picks, amp plugs, written music notes, and cassette tapes he recorded his favorite songs on plus the music he'd make himself. And a lot of my readers have been wanting to see more videos like I used to create, and given this has been a project I've had on my mind and I wanted to make it extra special, I definitely had to make one in honor of my father. I hope he would have liked it, and I hope you do too with a tiny fraction of who he was. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read and watch something that really matters to me. And to all the father's out there, Happy Father's Day to you on Sunday. I love you, dad. Wish you were here, but I know you're watching and I hope I've made you proud. Until I see you when I see you, keep on keepin' on.

Digging this denim maxi dress? It's from VIPme, you can use my code, 'Suzanne584' to get $5 OFF your purchase of any order over $50!

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: SUZANNE SPIEGOSKI

PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER: GILLES DECAMPS

PRODUCTION & STYLING: SUZANNE SPIEGOSKI

{To Know You Is to Love You} In honor of Father's Day this Sunday, I finally created an editorial video after a long hiatus - come check it out & press play! :)