I’m so grateful for the life-changing year that was 2011. Having the opportunity to take Hair Romance full time in 2012 is extremely exciting. Here are some of the highlights of 2011.
Did you know I was a model in my own photoshoot by the fabulous Xiaohan Shen of xssat street fashion and vogue.com.au? I was a little nervous but Xiaohan was fantastic.
This is just a small selection of shots from the day.
My favourite posts of 2011
Last week I counted down the most popular posts of 2011 as clicked by you, and here are some of my favourites that were personal highlights.
Hair Romance 30 Hairstyles in 30 Days Challenge
I’m so pleased you loved this series as much as I did. It was challenging but I’m so glad I went through with it and I’m proud of putting together the ebook too. I can’t thank all of you enough for your support. I have another hairstyle challenge coming up very soon I can’t wait to tell you about.
Reporting backstage at RAFW
This was my first time at fashion week and I loved the buzz of being backstage. Visiting 10 shows and editing and reporting back in the middle of my 30 day hairstyle challenge was crazy, but so worth it.
Hair Romance Salon Advice Series
I started this series of posts in 2011 and will continue this in 2012 to help you navigate the salon and emerge with the fabulous hair you wanted.
Short Cut Saturdays
Although I am growing my hair I keep teasing myself with great short styles. I particularly loved the conversation that ensued in the comments on this Short Cut Saturday post about who you style your hair for.
Some things I learnt about blogging (and life) in 2011
Just do it! – If you want to start a blog, go for it! I love lists and I love to plan things out in detail but nothing beats actually doing it and learning as you go. That doesn’t mean I don’t have goals and a vision, but I don’t aim for perfection. As a former perfectionist it’s a hard habit to break, and I didn’t have much sleep in 2011, but the main point is to just do it!
Do things that scare you – and be authentic. There were many times I was nervous about going to events or writing about myself online but I’ve realised that these fears are internal and only stop you from succeeding. Try something new, be open and you may be surprised at the result.
No blog is an island – Everyone is working and learning online. If you aren’t sure how to do something, google it and you’re guaranteed to find an answer. Reach out to those around you, in real life and online, for help. You’ll make great friends and hopefully you’ll be able to help them back too. The community is one of the best aspects of blogging (and one I didn’t expect!)
It’s all about love – You have to love what you write about as readers will feel that passion through your words. If you’re not excited about a subject, your readers won’t be either. Also, don’t expect the money and the brands to come running to your inbox just because you start a blog. Love keeps all bloggers writing into the middle of the night.
You are the brand – Tell people you have a blog. Be proud of your work. Know your value and project the image of what you stand for.
Offline still trumps online – when it comes to networking, nothing beats meeting someone face to face. It’s great to chat on Twitter and through comments on blogs, but meetings offline are when things start to happen. Go to conferences or social media meet-ups in your area. Even if they’re not directly related to your specialist subject, you never know who you might meet.
It’s ok to switch off – something I need to practice more of in 2012. I took a couple of breaks in 2011 and the world didn’t end. Nurture your real life relationships and look after yourself. Too much time in front of the computer is bad for your eyes!
What’s next for Hair Romance?
I plan to make Hair Romance bigger and better in 2012. More tutorials, more hairstyle challenges and more trends to try and styles to steal.
I want to work more closely with brands that appeal to me so that I can blog full time.
There will be more travel and more photography (and maybe another blog side project..). I’ll also be attending every blog conference I can including BlogHer in New York.
Ive only recently started following along (found you on IG) but I love your site already! After only 6 weeks of pixie, I’m over it. I’ve been to two different hairdressers recently asking for help doing my hair in a more “funky, modern” way. No luck! The last salon had me looking like a blowaved Nanna (no offense Nanna)! Just wondering, if you have thought about doing a series of post/s about the trials of growing out a pixie or short do?
Hi Kylie! You read my mind! Saturday’s post is how to grow out a pixie cut. Lot’s of celeb inspiration to get you through the grow-out period x
I have LOVED reading your blog. Thanks so much for the inspiration and encouragement.
2012 is going to be a great year for us all. Looking forward to your new projects! Def keep us posted.
Jenny Leigh
Thank you! I’m pretty excited about a couple of projects…
I’ve definitely enjoyed using your simplistic tutorials! The twist + pin is always a quick favorite. I love your blue heels as well!
Thanks Jessica xxx
Congratulations on your accomplishments with your site. You look amazing in your photos. My favorite look is the one in the red dress. Just lovely. Your hair is just impecable. Wishing you continued success in 2012! xo
Maria
http://onestyleatatime.blogspot.com/
Thank you so much Maria xxx
Hello! I discovered your amazing hair haven by clicking on a random weblink. I love it! Can’t wait to practice some of your styles!
Thanks Mystique, happy to answer any hair questions you may have too
I love those photos that Xiaohan took of you: gorgeous and a perfect way of showcasing your personal brand!
This year I’m sharing more of my own style on my business fashion blog through my Black Dress Project where Im styling the one black dress in 52 different eays for work. I am so inspired by your 30 hairstyle challenge that I hope to try out some new office-appropriate hair-dos too; an area that is not normally one of my fortes! TY for the inspiration and can’t wait to see what you get upto in 2012!
Thanks Cheryl! And what a fantastic idea for your Black Dress Project for work! I’ll be following and might try some office appropriate hairstyle tutorials too x
Those photos of you are spectacular! Every time I look at your hair, I beg mine to grow quicker 🙂
aw thanks Rah x
Your photo shoot turned out so beautiful!
Thanks for the tips on blogging. You are a great example of just going for it.
Thanks Miranda! I have a tendency to over-think things so just going for it is the best advice for me, otherwise nothing gets done.
Congratulations! I’ve loved seeing your amazing project develop and am in great admiration for what you have managed to create. And I am proud to say I knew the hair before it was famous and have been growing my hair ever since you started just so I can join in the fun. Well done, SG.
Thanks so much Sophie! You were an inspiration to me from the very beginning xxx