Every year after the clock strikes midnight and the confetti is cleaned up I take some “me” time to reflect.  Reflect upon the past year.  The good, the bad, the successes, and of course the failures.  I write my resolutions, and pick my “word” for 2014.  For those that haven’t ever picked a word before your word is supposed to encompass a desire, a want, a goal that you hope comes to fruition in the new year.  Last year my word was connect.  And 2013 was definitely a year of connections.     

How I choose my word is really more instinctual than anything else.  I simply grow quiet and go through THIS list writing down every word that speaks to me.  Then from those chosen words I start crossing each word off until only one remains.  What tends to happen is a theme begins to form.  An interconnection of words reveals itself.  And without even knowing it your left with what you, your soul, your life needs most.  Journey.  Seek.  Experience.  Explore.  Adventure.  Go.      

These pictures are from a business trip I recently took to New Orleans.  I had very little time for anything other than work, but during the most perfect free afternoon I grabbed my camera and indulged in my favorite activity.  The activity of nothing.  There were no plans.  Just me, my camera and streets to wander.  I gazed at the architecture.  Read about New Orleans history.  Sipped wine at an outdoor cafe.  Listened to street artists play and entertain the tourists.  Ducked in and out of shops.  It was a perfect moment in time.  

Times a funny thing isn’t it?  I thought a lot about time during my blog break.  Or rather moments.  The truth is life is short.  It’s fleeting.  It’s really a compilation of moments.  And what I realized was I’ll never have this moment again.  I will never be this age, in this life, with these people, in this exact space again.  And I want to take full advantage of that.  I want to hop on a plane with the Mr. and travel to destinations unknown.  I want to drive till we get lost.  I want to walk on streets I’ve never been and fall in love with cultures I’ve never experienced.  I want to be spontaneous.  I want to seek adventure.  I want to GO.  So GO I will.  Happy 2014 Loves!  truly, MKR

 P.S.  If you’ve chosen a word for 2014 I’d love to know what it is in the comments section below.

All images original, and property of Waiting On Martha

I fell into styling.  Literally.  I loved creating beautiful tables, interiors, and well we all know my love of fashion.  But I never set out to be a stylist, it was never part of my plan.  I’ve talked before about surrounding yourself closely with the right people.  People that bring the best out of you.  People who nurture your passion, support your dreams, and make you your best self.  And as I sit here, aching from yesterday’s editorial shoot, I am just so thankful for those people and the unexpected opportunities those people have afforded me.  What has transpired over the past year, how we’ve grown, and what we’ve got coming up next year is mind blowing to me.  Was it all part of the plan?  No. But thank God it was part of THE plan.  So be open to the unexpected.  The unexpected is usually what brings the unbelievable.  truly, MKR 

P.S. Big hugs and thanks to my remarkable team of creatives yesterday…Rustic White, Lindsay Coletta, Crush Event Rentals, I Do Linens, Eileen Carter Creations, Claudia Mejerle, Julia’s Poppies Designs, Ashley Buzzy McHugh, Hampton Road Studios, Tiffany Olson, Occasions Magazine & The Swan House

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Months and months ago I left you high and dry.  I promised a series on job search etiquette and only delivered one out of three parts.  Well I’m finally getting around to making good on my promise (better late than never) and today we’re talking part two…the interview.  An interview is a delicate balance of informality and formality, confidence without being cocky, and sharing but not over-sharing.  Per usual we’re leaning on Ms. Emily Post to help navigate, so without further ado let’s chat.

Interview Behavior…

Be on time.  This should be a no brainer, but sadly it’s not.  Get to the building or wherever the interview is being held at least 10-15 minutes early and take into account traffic and unanticipated problems.  You don’t want to arrive in the actual place of the interview more then 15 minutes early so if you do arrive with time to kill hang out at the coffee shop or somewhere nearby.  Be cordial to the receptionist and anyone else you speak to , but not overly friendly.  You never know ho much influence is wielded by someone you may have chatted with briefly.

Looks do count.  Clothes are key to a first impression.  They’re a gauge of your understanding of larger issues such as appropriateness and respect.  Tailor your outfit to the expectations of the company.  Is the company more conservative, or more casual.  However when in doubt always dress on the more conservative side.  Ms. Post suggests checking the company’s website for information on it’s dress code or call the human resources department to ask about dress standards.  “I’m coming in for an interview next week.  What is your company’s dress code?”  Also…

• Keep your dress understated and not provocative in the least bit.
• Be sparing with jewelry and scents.
• Groom.  Get a manicure, cut your hair, etc.
• Piercings and tattoos, think long and hard what first impression they will give.  In the world of job searches unfortunately the only person that matters is the one giving the interview.

Be prepared.  Do your research by studying the company’s website and if you can your interviewers profile both on the website and places like Linked In.  And always practice your answers to regularly asked questions such as “What’s your greatest strength?” and “What relevant experience have you had?” and “What are your weaknesses?”  Speaking of questions, if an interviewer ever asks an inappropriate or unlawful question such as your age, national origins, marital status, religion, or sexual preference simply answer “Sorry, but I’m uncomfortable with that question.” and then really think if this is a place you want to work at.

Demonstrate your people skills.  Make sure to greet your potential boss warmly and kindly.  Stand, smile, look him/her in the eye, and extend your hand in greeting.  Please, please, please make sure you give a firm handshake.  Nothing is worse than a tiny little limp handshake or on the flip side one that almost breaks the bones in your hand.  Also throughout the interview keep smiling.  Not constantly but enough to show that you’re enjoying your time.  And lastly, show some restraint.  Always appear confident and answer questions clearly, but be careful not to come across as a know it all or someone who’s condescending.  Per Ms. Post avoid starting out with, “Everyone know that…” or “it’s clear that…” or “Surely you can see that my qualifications prove that…”

A few other Do’s and Don’ts…

• Do ask questions.  Good questions include details about job responsibilities, the company’s strengths, and the job’s biggest challenges.
• Don’t do anything distracting such as chewing your gum or popping your knuckles.
• Do sit up straight and have good posture, be engaged and interested with who you’re talking to.
• Don’t criticize your former employees or co-workers.  It’s unprofessional and simply makes you look like s discontent, negative person.
• Do turn off your cell phone or any other device you’ve got on you.

So that’s what we’re working with for part two, the interview.  Next week (and I promise it will be next week) we’re talking what happens after the interview and some workplace etiquette for your first day assuming you follow all of the above and nail your interview.  Happy Tuesday Loves!  Oh, and I’ve already shared them, but since I feel they relate read this Forbes article, and watch Ashton Kutcher make a shockingly relevant speech at the Teen Choice Awards about working hard and forging your path.  truly, MKR.

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