It’s official… The MI Retail Blog turns one year today. What seemed like an impossible-to-maintain dream has become a huge part of my heart, and I am truly grateful for all of you who have taken the ride along with me.
What started out as a way for me to encourage and support an industry I adore, quickly became a year of learning and growth – both personally and professionally. So just for today we are taking a walk down memory lane, with a few do’s and don’ts thrown in for good measure. Let’s dive in…
When I first decided to write MI, I could not have been more scared. Because the truth is I am a very private person and let’s be honest – I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. Managing social media accounts, creating graphics, writing meaningful content, and creating an aesthetic all my own was never part of a corporate role. It was never taught to me. It was something I had to (and still) work on every single day, but I couldn’t be happier that I did it.
It pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to share with all of you what I truly love about this industry- in the most passionate and authentic way I knew how. So just in case you too are ever questioning whether or not to pursue that one thing that makes you a bit terrified, please remember the following:
Always follow your passion. Share your story, take the leap, try new things, make mistakes, be honest, be supportive, ask questions, give credit, stay true to who you are, celebrate every win, and learn as much as you can along the way.
Never worry about being different and try not to seek out approval via social media. Believe it or not, you will find your tribe, and when you do it’s the substance and character that matters way more than the numbers.
Stay in your own lane and don’t compare yourself to anyone else. What makes you unique is your greatest strength. But above all, don’t quit. It’s definitely essential to rest (trust me) but always go back to what makes you most happy. I promise you it’s worth it, and oh so good for your soul.
So whether you are like me and constantly in a “mom, wife, strategist, blogger, repeat” mode or off chasing your own dream, I hope that there were moments this past year that made you smile. That brought you insight into why the retail industry and the talent within it is so amazing. Because at the end of the day, my goal was for you to be inspired... just as I am every single day.
Below are a few of my favorite posts, most of which are “firsts” that hold a special place in my heart. It’s 108 articles and 213 additional posts later and I still remember the excitement I felt when presenting these to you. Please take a peek when you have time and thank you from the bottom of my heart for your ongoing support of MI – it means the world.
xo,
Cristina
My first official photo shoot...
My first "retail headlines" post...
Junk Street Market: A favorite store here in TX and the first one I ever photographed...
The "coach" in me. Diving into the interview process / supporting up-and-comers...
Project 7: The first retailer to re-tweet my article and imagery...
Magnolia Market: A dream come true destination / article for me...
The Vintage Showroom: A favorite introduction, combining two loves of mine - storefronts and menswear...
Caitlin / Jane Calligraphy: My first partnership with a creative entrepreneur I truly admire...
