Keep Calm & Rock Your Blog

This semester I have learned so much about blogging. Not only was I able to create my first blog, but I was able to maintain my blog for 5 months. Oh the things I've learned...

To brainstorm new ideas.

Engage my audience through engaging topics, places, and products.

Update my blog weekly.

Incorporate things I love.

Be passionate about my blog.

To improve my writing and proofing.

I have gained so much from the last 5 months and my experiences with this blog. Always remember keep calm and rock your blog.

xoxo Kate

The Mont

The Mont is my favorite spot in Norman, OK. If I am in Norman and its nice weather, there is about a 99% chance I can be found at the Mont. 

I must have developed this Mont obsession from my Mom. One thing my Mom taught me: Never underestimate the power of a beautiful patio. The Mont restaurant was founded in the 1920's and is one of Norman's oldest and most historic buildings. The Mont is located on Classen and Boyd. 

The Mont is famous for it's Sooner Swirl. There's nothing like an OU game day and a Sangria Swirl. The absolute best way to celebrate a win is at the Mont, swirl in hand.

Next time you find yourself in Norman, make sure to stop by the Mont!

xoxo kate

The Disappearance Of Eleanor Rigby

With the start of each new month, comes new movies added to Netflix. I have been exploring numerous recently added titles and have decided to write about some of my favorites. First up, "The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby."

Netflix Synopsis:

"Told from two perspectives, this engrossing drama depicts the dissolving union of Eleanor and Conor, who begin drifting apart after tragic event."

The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby is a 2014 film featuring James McAvoy and Jessica Chastain. The title initially intrigued me, because of it's reference to the famous Beatles' song, "Eleanor Rigby." Then, when I viewed the lead actor and actress I simply had to see what this film was all about.

I truly enjoyed this film. It was raw and real. James McAvoy and Jessica Chastain have incredible chemistry from the very start. The film features the aftermath of the tragedy, but the flashbacks of James and Jessica pre-tragedy are quite endearing. 

If you enjoy a beautifully tragic romantics films, this might just be the film for you (Think "Like Crazy"). Plus, who can beat Jessica Chastain and James McAvoy's acting? They are wonderful. 

Happy Netflix Watching!

XOXO

-Kate

Polar Bottle

I have been a devoted Camelbak user for quite sometime, but I recently faced a dilemma. As I was using my filtered Camelbak one day, I noticed that there was mold build up in the mouthpiece. No matter how many times I washed my water bottle, I could not get the mold to go away. After purchasing several different types of Camelbaks I decided to try something new.

As I was strolling through the aisles at Target, I found the Polar Bottle. I love this water bottle, because it is insulated and the mouth piece is very easy to clean. I don't even have to worry about the water bottle melting in the dishwasher. I can wash both the bottle and the lid.

H&M in OklaHOME

Thoughts from my first trip to New York: the bustling streets, the massive amounts of people, the bright lights, the tall buildings, and...the fashion. These are the things I remember. I visited the Big Apple for the first time at the age of 17 and I was certain all my dreams of being Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's (apart from the escort thing) would come true in that city.

I fell in love. What was the best gift NYC gave me? No, it wasn't a visit to Tiffany & Co. or the view at the top of the Empire State Building. It was one store- two sometimes three stories tall and on every street corner: H&M.

Now, just like most young women my age, I adore fashion. I love to shop, but I inherited the "thrift gene" from my mother. I love a good discount and will wait for an item to go on sale. My mom has had a few fashion lines in the past and what did she teach me? The value of fabric. If I'm going to purchase an expensive item, the quality of fabric better be above par.

I love H&M, because it's AFFORDABLE and the product is QUALITY. You definitely get enough bang for your buck (as the saying goes).

To my Oklahoma friends, H&M is coming...finally!!!! Opening in Quail Springs in Fall 2015 with  23,000 square feet of wonder and beauty... I can't wait and I know you can't either. Now we can all be rockin' H&M style just like our girl Miranda Kerr.

Happy shopping!

XOXO
-Kate

Split Ends for Days

I once heard that a good way to get healthy hair was to lather your ends with coconut oil, pin it up, and sleep on it wet with a towel...Well, that just never sounded appealing to me. I toss and turn too much in my sleep and I mean no one wants coconut oil smothered all over their pillow. So, when faced with damaging split ends, I was pleased when I found this option: OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Anti-Breakage Serum.

I love this product. I apply it to the ends of my hair as soon as I get out of the shower. The scent of this product is lovely and tropical. After using this product only one time, I noticed a difference in the softness and shininess of my hair. This product is very affordable and can be found at almost any drug store, as well as, Target and Ulta. A single bottle is only $7.99 and will last a long time, because only a small amount is applied once a day. 

Hope this heals your split ends!

-Kate

I Hate Packing

There is nothing more exciting than planning for a fabulous trip, but the worst part is always packing. I hate packing more than almost anything. I am a serious over packer. I always bring more than I need, but am too scared to be on vacation without something I want. I've got a few quick tips to help your Spring Break packing be a little less stressful.

Tip #1: Make a packing list.

• This tip is huge for me. Packing can be very overwhelming, so it's important for me to write down exactly what I will need. If I write it down, the task of packing doesn't seem so daunting.
• Note: I always write down the number of outfits I will need per day. 

Tip #2: Roll, don't fold.

• Tightly folded clothes take up less space! When packing for a trip, it's important to utilize all the space you can.

Tip #3: Layer.

• Pack layers!! On a trip, you may be traveling through different climates or just different types of weather. It's important to be prepared, so pack layers in order to ensure that you will be comfortable in either warm or cold weather. 
• Note: I always wear layers on the airplane as well!

*Tips found from USA Today

Sworkit Out

Sworkit…it's my new favorite app. I started exercising 3 or 4 days a week in January, but honestly the elliptical get's super boring. I decided that I needed a workout I could do anywhere for however long I wanted. That's when I found Sworkit.

Sworkit is a circuit training app. I have been doing the "Fit in 5 Minutes" for 20 minutes a day. I absolutely love it! By the end of the 20 minutes, I am sweating and feeling the burn! The "Fit in 5 Minutes" workout features: planks, mountain climbers, squats, mason twists, the dreaded burpees, and more! It is an all over work out with an emphasis on your arms, core, and legs.

Sworkit also offers strength, cardio, yoga, and stretching. You can even create your own custom work outs and guess what- it's a free app! You can get the quality of a gym workout right in your own living room. I mean who doesn't love that?

Have fun Sworkin' it!

-Kate

Maintain Your Mane

Ladies, has your hair felt dry and damaged lately? What about those awful split ends? I have the answer: 12 Benefits. 

My hair was in the exact same position: damaged by products with a multitude of split ends. One day, my hair stylist suggested two products by 12 Benefits. 

#1: Instant Healthy Hair Treatment

The Instant Healthy Hair Treatment is designed to prevent and repair hair damage. The product (containing only 6 ingredients) is to be misted on the mid-shaft to ends 2-3 times a day. Instant Healthy Hair Treatment will:

Seal Hair Color

Smooth Frizz

Repair Damage

Prevent Split Ends

Moisturize Dry Hair

Strengthen Fragile Hair

Prevent Flat Iron Damage

Prevent Chlorine, Wind, and Sun Damage

Add Shine, Softness, and a Silky Finish

Protect Hair from Blow-Drying

Improve Detangling and Manageability

Keep Hair Youthful

Now, that's a lot of promises for one product to deliver and surprisingly this product completely nails it. I use this treatment every time I wash my hair and there has been a noticeable difference in the shine, softness, and strength of my hair. Also, I love how this product smells, the smell alone would make me want to apply it to my hair every single day. I highly recommend this product. 

Price: $7.25 on 12 Benefits

#2: Pink Addiction

Pink Addiction is another must-have from 12 Benefits. The product smoothes raised cuticles and strengthens hair, it especially protects and preserves ends. Apply 1-2 pumps to palms and spread throughout hair ends. Pink Addiction will: 

Replenish Human Hair Keratin

Rejuvenate Damaged Hair

Polish

Strengthen Weakened Hair

Protect and Nourish with Argan Oil 

Intensify Shine

Provide a Velvety-Soft Feel

Eliminate Unruliness

Reverse Hair Deficiencies 

Restore Over All Hair Health

Keep Hair Youthful with Anti-Age Ingredients

Pink Addiction has done wonders for my split ends. After I began using this product, I went back to my hair stylist and she commented on how much this product had improved my hair. 

Price: $25.00 on 12 Benefits (A little pricey, but definitely worth it). 

I hope you all will enjoy these products just as much as I did! 

Sunshine on 30A: Rosemary Beach

Now it's time for my second favorite 30A vacation spot: Rosemary Beach. Rosemary has a very European feel with streets made of brick and cobblestone. The town was founded by Guy Chesterfield Sr. in 1995. Rosemary is close to 105 acres and at the time of its creation featured 500 homesites. Rosemary provides a family-friendly atmosphere. The design of the town features many open grass courtyards for children to play. As well as, some of the best restaurants on 30A.

This grass area opens right up to the beach. There are benches lining either side of the courtyard, which are perfect for people watching. During the summer, Rosemary has a movie on the lawn once a week, which is a great activity for the whole family.

George's at Aly's Beach
George's offers some of the best food in Rosemary Beach by far. I actually had the privilege of working at it's sister restaurant just down the road a couple of summers ago. One night, we took a trip to George's for dinner and it was an incredible experience. At night, the entire restaurant is lit up by candles on the patio. The food is gourmet and delicious.

Sugar Shak
Ready to induce a sugar coma? Well, Sugar Shak is the place for you. Since Rosemary Beach is such a kid friendly place, it only makes sense to have an ice cream and candy store. Sugar Shak is a famous spot for adults and kiddos alike.

La Crema Tapas & Chocolate
It may be a girl thing, but I mean who doesn't love fondue? Gentlemen, if you ever find yourself in Rosemary Beach, I promise you can't go wrong with taking your date to La Crema. I mean what girl doesn't love strawberries and cheesecake dipped in peanut butter and milk chocolate?

 I mean come on, it's beautiful…and delicious….Just trust me.

30A Farmer's Market at Rosemary Beach
The farmer's market takes place in the open square at Rosemary Beach every Sunday year round. It's a great place to try some farmer fresh veggies and load up on groceries during your visit. I mean what better way to spend a Sunday afternoon in paradise?

Trust me when I say, you do not want to miss out on this place. I hope you remember a couple of these places if you ever find yourself in Rosemary.

You're Never Fully Dressed Without...Lipstick

You're never fully dressed without...lipstick. I am a lipstick junky. I carry at least 4 different types of lipstick in my purse at all times. With spring quickly approaching, I thought it would be appropriate to share my favorite and AFFORDABLE lipstick options. This post will prove that you don't have to use expensive make up brands to find quality lipstick that looks good on you!

#1: Ellen Tracy Thick Stick Lip Color Collection: This set of 5 colors is perfect for spring. I will admit, I currently own two sets... The shades range from blush pink to bright red. I mean what more could a girl ask for? The lipstick applies smoothly and evenly. Price: $5.99 Find at TJ Maxx or Ross

#2: Revlon Color Stay Ultimate Shade: If you want color that will stay on all day, Color Stay is the answer for you. The only issue is commitment. If you put it on in the morning, its staying on all day. Still, once you commit, Color Stay offers bright lip color all throughout the day! Price: Close to $9 Find at Walmart, CVS Pharmacy, or Walgreens

#3: Covergirl's Fairytale (405): There is no other color I wear more than Fairytale. It's the perfect coral color for spring and summer. If you're looking for a vacation lip, this is the option for you! Price: $5 Find at Walmart, CVS Pharmacy, or Walgreens

Sunshine on 30A: Seaside

As I prepare for my spring break trip, I cannot stop thinking about my most cherished vacation destination: 30A. 30A is a coastal highway along the beautiful blue green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Seaside and Rosemary Beach are two of Florida's best kept secrets. Although, tourism has greatly increased in these two locations since I began visiting there with my family; these destinations are still relatively unknown to the majority of the US. This post features the first of two of my favorite 30A destinations: Seaside, Florida.

Seaside, Florida U.S.A. Or simply, the most perfect town in America. This quaint city was featured in Jim Carrey's 1998 film, "The Truman Show." Seaside was created in 1981 by a husband/wife architectural team. The town features a school, town hall, open air market, tennis club, tented amphitheater and post office. 

Must See's in Seaside:

The Post Office: Let me tell you, there is nothing like Seaside on the Fourth of July.  The post office is parked in the heart of the town and I mean come on? That's literally the cutest post office in the world. If you ever find yourself in Seaside on the Fourth, a picture in front of the post office is a must.

Taco Bar: There is nothing like a refreshing Coke and chips and salsa for lunch on a sunny beach day. Taco Bar has the best tacos in Seaside. The restaurant has a colorful and fun atmosphere. Just a few paces from the beach, it is the perfect refreshment after a long day of soaking up the sun.

Bud & Alley's: Watch the sunset on the 2nd floor deck of this restaurant. Seriously, the sunsets are simply breathtaking. During the day, it's a great place to grab lunch after being on the beach. As soon as the sun goes down, it turns into quite the party. Bud & Alley's is the perfect date night destination.

Modica Market: Modica is your grocery go-to in Seaside. Fresh orange juice is made every day. The market has an old time market feel with all your favorite products.

Sundog Books: You can't sit on the beach all day without a good book in your hand. Sundog Books has a variety of book options. Take a stroll upstairs and you will stumble across Central Square Records.  Central Square has an array of artists featured on vinyls and CDs. From Billie Holiday to Led Zep, this records store will not disappoint.

I hope you will enjoy the crystal white sand and blue-green water just as much as I did.

The Dos and the Don'ts of Blogging

After reading through several articles on blogging, I've compiled a list of dos and don'ts: 

The Don'ts:

1. Make Grammar Mistakes: There is nothing worse than reading something with numerous errors.    Double check your work before you post it. 

2. Be Negative: Most readers don't want to read content full of negativity. You will gain more readers from positivity and blogging about things you are passionate about!

3. Set Unrealistic Goals: We are all busy. Know how much time you can spend blogging. Start off with one post a week and increase it when you can! You want your blog posts to be meaningful. 

The Dos: 

1. Set the Tone: Know your target audience and blog about what your audience wants to see!

2. Be Genuine: Honesty is always the best policy. Honesty will develop loyalty with readers. 

3. Be Short: We have short attention spans. 2-3 sentences per paragraph will allow you to hold the attention of your readers!

New Newsroom Position: Audience Engagement Editor

While scrolling through Mulin Blog, I stumbled across an article discussing a new position opening in newsrooms across the country: an audience engagement editor.

Now, I am sure you had the exact same question I had...

What is an audience engagement editor?

An audience engagement editor is hired to "build a team devoted to using search, social, and other strategies to draw more people to our news articles and editorials." The position is part marketing with a journalism spin. Another big portion of this job is managing and reaching the news station's audience through social media.

As I have mentioned before, I am pursing a career in public relations. This new position sounds like a great way for journalists, advertisers, and public relations professionals to partner together. This position will allow journalists to gain more insight into their audience.

Mass Communications departments across the nation must begin to train students to be able meet this need within the journalism field.

Habits for Successful Bloggers

I recently read an article by Blogging Your Passion titled, "7 Habits of Successful Bloggers." As a newbie to the blog world, I found many of these tips helpful. I will touch on my top three favorites.

Habit #1: They Understand the Importance of Valuing Keyword Research

In the article, it discusses the importance of knowing what the people in your niche are keyword searching. Being familiar with their keyword searches, will allow you as a blogger to be able to produce content that your blogging community wants to read. I hope to familiarize myself more with what the people in my niche are looking for in the areas of fashion, beauty, pop culture, travel, etc.

Habit #2: They Produce Quality Content on a Consistent Basis

I believe this is the most difficult habit for bloggers to develop. Why? We're busy. Although blogging consistently is a difficult habit to form, I believe it will lead to the most success for your blog. People want to be inspired and want to read quality work. The more people you want to inspire, the more quality and consistency you must give your blog.

Habit #3: They Are Always Promoting

Connect. Connect. Connect. It's important for bloggers to not only promote through social media, but also through other bloggers. The article offers many suggestions for promoting. Two of my favorite tips were asking to be guest bloggers on other blog sites and to connect with people who have products in your niche.

Now a question for you: What successful habit as it relates to blogging has helped you?

About Me

I thought I would take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Katie Ceyler. Currently, I am completing my final semester at the University of Central Oklahoma. I have spent the last four years studying Strategic Communication. In the future, I hope to pursue a career in Public Relations. 

I am a lover of ice cream and classic movies. Audrey Hepburn films and oldies music. I love fashion and everything vintage. There is absolutely no place I would rather be than the beach. I hope to travel to Greece someday. 

This blog will feature all sorts of things I love. Fashion, art, music, movies, travel destinations, etc. All of these things and more will be featured in Life & Style by Kate. I look forward to sharing all of my ideas with you! 

These Are a Few of My Favorite Blogs

Atlantic Pacific is the quintessential style guide. I have followed this blog for several years now via Pinterest. Atlantic Pacific offers chic looks for 20 somethings. With the use of a fabulous professional photographer, Blair Eadie creates classic Audrey Hepburn-esque looks with a twist. 

KandeeJ is a celebrity make up artist. She features all of her favorite products and looks on her youtube channel. I have tried many of her make up tips and tricks over the years. Her videos and blog posts will not only give you the best make up ideas, but will also brighten your day!

Humans of New York is such a powerful blog. It presents so many beautiful, personal stories of New Yorkers. The creator of Humans of New York, Brandon, began this blog in Summer 2010. The interviews are impromptu. Brandon simply walks up to individuals on the street and asks them questions. The result is magical. The two little girls featured above were asked what they wanted to be when they grew up. Their response? "A dolphin saver." 

Other notable blogs to visit:
A Cup of Jo

Modern Hepburn

Street Peeper

Carolines Mode

Make Up Apply Daily

PS- I made this

One Kings Lane