Hexx and Harte Business Card Case Collection

Can we talk about how cute this Hexx and Harte business card case is?


I know I can't be the only one who likes a good investment piece. I'm just glad that when it comes to buying them I'm no longer limited to just my closet. I love supporting up and coming brands, and Hexx and Harte is definitely one I can get behind. I was so excited when we decided to collaborate together and provide you the chance to win a super cute business card case of your own! This white scalloped Hexx and Harte business card case can definitely add a touch of chic to any business or brand. The Hexx and Harte business card case collection includes cases in vinyl leather that come in  black and white with straight or scalloped edges. What I really love about a good business card case is that it can take you from unorganized and all over the place to polished and professional. Here are three things you should always consider when purchasing a business card case:

1. Is it timeless? 

It's so easy to want to go with trends, but with a piece as important as a business cared case you definitely want to heir on the side of timeless. You want a case that will not only last over time, but you want one that will look good over time.

2. Does it fit my brand?

When it comes to business you want to stay on brand at all time. If you're making a business purchase, it doesn't matter how cute something is if it doesn't fall in line with you brand.

3. Am I happy with it?

At the end of the day you have to be happy with your purchase. Even if you are buying it for your business, you still have to love it. If you don't you'll only end up buying multiple cases until you find the one you like, and we all know that they money can be saved for something more fabulous for yourself or your business!

Now let's get to this giveaway! Head on over to my instagram (@KelleyWithLove) for a chance to win your very own Hexx and Harte business card case. Giveaway ends 6/30/15 at 11:59pm EST.

Follow me on Instagram(@KelleyWithLove) for your chance to win your own Hexx and Harte Business Card Case.

Creative Entrepreneur Beginners Kit

If you've thrown around the idea of becoming a millennial entrepreneur before then you know the thought can be very daunting. If you're anything like me when I decided to give it a shot, you may be feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Believe me, it's only normal to feel that way. I've only recently begun the journey and I'm learning that even when I fail I win. I'm learning that no matter how long it takes me I am still making progress. Today I wanted to encourage you, if it's in your heart, to believe in yourself and your ability to become a successful entrepreneur. I've learned that the best cure when feeling stuck and undecided is inspiration. Today I want to inspire you by helping you learn How to Be a Millennial #Girlboss and How to Find Clarity. I'll help you curate your own inspiration for your business by teaching you How to Create a Mood Board For Your Brand and How to Turn Your Idea Into a Blog. I'll even help you take your first steps to putting your idea out there by teaching you How to Keep Your Audience Coming Back for More and How to Create Your Brand Social Media Plan. Check out the full kit below.


Creative Entrepreneur Beginners Kit

1. How to Be a Millennial #Girlboss

2. How to Find Clarity

3. How to Create a Mood Board For Your Brand

4. How to Turn Your Idea Into a Blog

5. How to Keep Your Audience Coming Back For More

6. How to Create Your Brand Social Media Plan

What's your biggest inspiration for wanting to become an entrepreneur?

How to Decide If You Should Purchase An Online Course

The one thing I love the most about being a millennial is the freedom that we are able to create for ourselves by working online. Many millennial entrepreneurs are taking the leap from the traditional 9-5 to location independent positions. We are opting out of traditional universities and investing instead in courses that teach us the skills we want and need to build the lives of out dreams. Many of the courses offered online are created for millennials by millennials, and some are not. Having so many courses available can be a blessing and a curse. If you are working hard to become an entrepreneur, having so many courses available to you can be the cause of the shiny object syndrome. Shiny object syndrome is what happens when we want to purchase every new course that comes out because it's the next best thing. It causes us to become easily distracted which can delay out goals and dreams. Believe me, I've been there. I know it's easy to want to take every online course you come across, especially when you're not confident in your skills. Today I want to help you decide on what courses you should take so that you don't delay your dreams any longer. Below I'll show you How to Decide If You Should Purchase an Online Course by answering a few simple questions.


How to Decide if You Should Purchase An Online Course

1. Why do I need this course?

Understanding your why for any situation is powerful. Before you buy a course online, take a moment to consider why you want to.  Asking yourself this one question will likely cut the list of courses you want to take in half.  Asking yourself why will keep you from becoming a serial course buyer. It will keep you from avoiding to act on your plans. Your why should align with the goals you have set for yourself. If you why does align with your goals then you will find that your goals will only be better because of the course you are planning to take

2. How will I see return on investment?

When considering buying a course online you should consider whether or not you will see a return on investment. You want to really put some thought into what this course will teach you that you will later be able to use to not only better yourself, but to make a profit for yourself. How will you be better after taking the course you are considering purchasing? You will also want to consider if the course price is worth it to you? Will it break your budget? Is the service being offered worth the price being paid?

3. What skills will I gain?

Before buying a course, make sure you know what skills you will be gaining. If you are not learning a new skill then ask yourself how you will build on your current skill set. You can also consider what new perspective you will be gaining on that may shed new light on the way you do things.

4. How much time do I have to devote? 

Courses take time to complete and time will need to be devoted to implement your new skills. Before clicking the purchase button find out if you will have lifetime or limited access. Find out if you will have access to upgraded versions of the program. If the course is limited find out how long you will have access to the course. For both a limited and lifetime courses find out what materials will be provided to help in your implementation of new skills you will be learning. 

5. How much work is required?

It is important to know the time required to complete the course, but you also need to be honest with yourself about how much work you are willing to do. Will you be disciplined enough to complete all course work required in order to get the most out of the experience?  

6. Is the content offered in the way I learn best?

This question is all about format and delivery. We all learn differently. That's why it's a good idea to know what format the course or program you are will be taking is offered in. If you are a visual learner then you want to make sure that you will be catered to. Find out if your program will be delivered using mixed media. Also consider if the program is offered one on one or by group. This will be especially important if building relationships is important to you. Ultimately, the program needs to be a good fit for you.

7. Is this my tribe?

If relationship building is important to you then you will also want to know if the course you are about to join is filled with the kinds of peers you will want to learn from and grow with. Ask yourself, is this my tribe?

8. How much contact will I have with creator of the course?

In school were you the type that liked to stay after class for extra help from your teachers? If so then you will want to find out how much access and contact you will have with the creator of the course. If you will have direct, individual, or group contact with the course creator then you will want to find out how the communication will take place. Will there be group calls? Communication by email? Or communication via Skype? This is something you will want to know upfront. 

What online course are you considering taking and why?

How to Find Clarity

With so much going on around us, it can be easy to get caught up in our never ending to do lists. The truth is sometimes life can be overwhelming and we can become burned out leaving us feeling lost, hopeless, and even confused about what direction to go in next. The trick to dealing with burnout and overwhelm is finding clarity. I've learned over time that no matter how much you try, without clarity you'll always feel like you're going around in circles. Whether you want to start a blog, business, or just eliminate most of the stress from your everyday routine, clarity is key. Below I'll show you the steps I use to beat overwhelm and find clarity. Check out how to find clarity below.

How to Find Clarity

1. Pause 

When you need to find clarity about any situation the first things it's best to do is to literally hit the pause button. When we don't have clarity we tend to stress which causes even more confusion for ourselves. It's best to just pause and recognize that you need to find clarity. This will stop you from going down a stress spiral that is not of use to you and will only keep you down. When you pause you allow your mind to change from problem focused to solution focused.

2. Take a minute 

Now that you have shifted your mind from problem to solution, take a minute ensure yourself that what ever it is you're facing you can find clarity about it. This is a good time to meditate, journal, or do anything that provides relief for you.

3. Pinpoint 

Once you've had a moment to breathe and reassure yourself that you can find clarity take some time to think about what it is you want to find clarity about. Next, identify what made you feel unsure or overwhelmed about that situation.  

4. Brainstorm 

It's time to brainstorm! You've identified what it is you want clarity about and what it is that has caused stress or overwhelm about the situation. Now brainstorm all the ways that you can eliminate stress and overwhelm and find clarity. What would help you become more clear? What steps could you take to avoid stress? Weigh the pros and cons of each idea you came up with. 

5. Plan & Take Action

You've done the hard work and found some solutions that will help you find and maintain clarity. Now it's time to choose the best solutions from your list. Prioritize your list and then create a plan to carry out each solution. Remember, it's only a list until you add some action to it and clarity takes action!

Which tip above do you need to implement more to find clarity?

How to Create a Budget For Your Business

The time will come when you will eventually have to spend money on your business. It's really inevitable. This can be scary, but it doesn't have to be. When I first decided that I wanted to be an entrepreneur, I knew that there were plenty of free resources that I could use to build my business, but I also knew that the day would come that I would have to spend money to continue to grow. Instead of letting that idea overwhelm me, I sat down with my then boyfriend (now hubby) and created a budget that would work for me. When you're just starting, your business budget does not have to be massive. It is a good idea, however, to start planning for one to create good business habits. Below, I'll show you how to to create a budget for your business. Be sure to print out the free daily expense tracker, monthly budget, and business budget.

How to Create a Budget For Your Business

1. Record Monthly Expenses

Okay so first things first, you have to know what bills you have and where your money is going. If you can't keep up with you personal bills then right now may not be a good time to start a business. Starting and running a business takes organization. Successful entrepreneurs know where they are spending their money and you should too. Bills can feel overwhelming. Instead of letting them overwhelm you, take control and let them empower you. Sit down and right out a list of monthly bills and expenses. Even if you don't get a bill for something you spend on monthly, write it down. For example, every month I get groceries. I don't get an official bill in the mail for it, but because it's a reoccurring expense, I treat it as a bill and set a certain amount of money aside every month for it. The money for your bills should automatically be set aside and marked as off limits.

2. Track Daily Spending

Not only is it important to know what bills you have monthly, but it's good to track your daily spending. Tracking your daily spending provides you with a good snapshot of your spending habits. Once you are aware of how you are spending your money daily, you'll be better able to identify areas where you can spend less and save more. This can be very important, because you can allocate some of the money you save to go towards your business budget.

3. Assess Business Needs 

The theme here has been knowing where your money is going. The same applies here. When creating a budget for your business you need to know where your money will be going. That means making a list of what you will need to run your business on a month to month basis. Once you have made this list, take some time to figure out how much each item you need will cost. Then assign a projected cost to each item.

4. Research Costs 

Don't just settle for the first price you come across. Just because you need it to run your business does not mean you can't get a better price for it. Look at each item on your business needs list and find a service that will provide you with the quality you need and at the best price. Think of your business needs list as a grocery list and look online and even locally to find the best deals.

5. Build Your Business Budget 

Based on the above you should now be able to see where your money is going and where it is coming from. You should also be able to identify where you will have extra to spend on business. Now you will want to choose how much you feel comfortable spending on your business at this time. Think about the must haves and what things you can add to the budget later.  Build your business budget by adding only the things from you must haves list. Over time you can expand your budget as needed and when you're ready.


What has been stopping you from creating a business budget?

How to Create Your Brand Social Media Plan

Is it just me, or has social media taken on a life of it's own? I mean sure, social media is a free tool that you can use to build some serious leverage for your brand, but it can also ruin your brand if you don't use it strategically. I love a good strategy and find that one is definitely necessary when it comes to using social media. It can be easy to get lost and become overwhelmed by trying to learn, effectively use, and be successful on the many different channels and platforms. That's why I'm always thinking of ways that I can use streamline the way I use social media so that it's fun an effective. One way I do this is by using a social media plan. A social media plan can be used to structure the way you use social media so that you're working smarter and not harder. Here's how to create your very own Social Media Plan...

How to Create Your Social Media Plan

1. Know Your Goals

You should never do anything unless you know your "why". What do you hope to achieve for your business or brand by using social media? What outcome are you hoping for? Answering these questions will help you get clear on what your social media goals are.

2. Choose Your Channels

Once you've decided one what your goals are it's good to find out what social media channels will best help you to achieve these goals.

3. Curate Your Content

Take some time to sit and decide on what type of content you plan to share on each different social media channel you plan to utilize. Consider your ideal client when making your decision. What types of content does she enjoy seeing and interacting with on social media? What is the time of day she would check for this type content? Is she more likely to check social media during the week or on the weekend?

Also consider how you will deliver the content. Remember to keep your messages short and to the point. One easy tip to remember is to include the solution you are provided in each social media message you share.

4. Consider Your Schedule

Consistency is key to whether you sink or swim in the world of social media. Get as specific as possible when it comes to what days and times you will post each type of content you've chosen to share on each social media channel you plan to use. Be realistic about how much time you will really have to devote to social media.

5. Create Eye Catching Images

A rule of thumb that I like to stick to is to always have an image to accompany my social media messages. You'd be surprised at how much of a difference this can make!

6. Test Your Strategy 

Now that you've created your strategy test it out for a week or two. Record what messages perform the best and note what day, time, and type of comments lets to the most engagement and the most traffic.

7. Adjust as Necessary 

Now that you know what works, adjust as necessary. Always looks for ways to improve and remember to always test your strategy for effectiveness and efficiency. 

Download your free Social Media Action Plan Fun Sheet and share with a friend!

How to Be a Millennial #Girlboss

Let's face it, being a millennial girlboss is the toughest, most rewarding, and might I add awe worthy positions to have in this lifetime. I'm not just saying that because I'm a millennial, but because of the amazing millennial women I know and the amazing things they do. As a millennial we have one foot in the older generation and one foot in the younger generation. This makes for a unique and talented group of women. We're the perfect mix of tradition and creativity. Our unique set of talents provide us many opportunities, but also many challenges. Today I'm showing you how to be not just a millennial, but a millennial girlboss. Check it out below and share with all of the millennial girl bosses in your life!

How to Be a Millennial #Girlboss

1. Make Your Own Path

Like most things, tradition has its place and that may or may not be in your life. I think tradition can be a really amazing way to pay tribute to those that came before us. It only becomes a problem when it takes the place of our happiness. This is your life and you deserve to live it doing what makes you truly happy. Sometimes we feel forced to do things because it's expected of us or because we don't think we have other options. The truth is you have all the options in the world plus the trillions you could create.  Let go of the pressure to do what is "expected" of you and create your own path! 

2. Own Your Mistakes 

The millennial #girlboss that chooses to create her own path must be ready at all times to make a mistake. We often fall into routine and tradition out of fear of making a mistake. It's okay to make mistakes. In fact, you will make mistakes regardless so you might as well make them doing what you love. Never let fear keep you from doing what you love and never let a mistake hold you back.  Own your mistakes and learn from them.

3. Live Your Life For You

It's safe to assume that you will have people that will support you and others who will not. You have to be prepared to meet resistance once you set out on a path of your own. Sometimes that resistance will come from those you love the most. It's okay if they don't understand because why youve chosen to do what you do at first. This is your journey and it is about you. If you don't  take care of yourself you won't be able to take care of anyone else - and that includes putting your happiness first.

4. Try New Things

With all this talk in the world about choosing your own path and doing what you love, it's easy to loose yourself. In the moments when you don't know where to turn or what to do try something new. Trying new things help us to conquer fears, learn new skills, explore new paths,  and create new opportunities. A millennial girl boss never stops learning and has tons of tools up her sleeves.

5. Do Good 

Be grateful. Give love. Make someone laugh. Send snail mail. Give back to your community. There are tons of ways to do good in the world. Even though it's important to live your life for you, its also important to do good for others. Living the life of your dreams is a good way to start putting good into the world. This alone is an act that can truly inspire others. Remember to do what you love, do good, and leave every place and person better than they were before coming in contact with you.

What makes you a millennial #girlboss?

Blog Better Starter Kit

Being a blogger is one thing; being an amazing blogger is another. I'm a firm believer that you should always be the best at what you do. By best, I mean your personal best. Remember, creativity cannot thrive in a competitive environment. There is more than enough for everyone to be successful. If you are a part of the online world of business, marketing, and branding then at some point it's likely that you will either start or contribute to a blog. I want to help you make sure that you put your best foot forward when you do so I created the Blog Better Starter Kit! I'll help you start from the beginning and show you How to Turn Your Idea Into a Blog and How to Create a Mood Board For Your Brand. I'll give you key tips on How to Choose Your Website Design and Designer and How to Keep Your Audience Coming Back For More. Of course I'll also show you how to take care of yourself while taking care of business with some tips on How to Manage Stress as an Entrepreneur.  If you want to blog better, check out the five tools below to help you get started.

Blog Better Starter Kit

1. How to Turn Your Idea Into a Blog

2. How to Create a Mood Board For Your Brand
3. How to Choose Your Website Design and Designer
4. How to Keep Your Audience Coming Back For More

5. How to Manage Stress as an Entrepreneur

Know someone that could use the Blog Better Starter Kit? Share this post with a friend!

What is standing in the way of you being a better blogger?

How to Create a Mood Board For Your Brand

One of my favorite things about business is branding. I thinks it's the creative in me, after all branding is the creative soul of business. Branding is fun because it's how you express yourself in a way that connects with the world. I get lots of emails weekly about how to create a brand that really stands out so I thought I'd share one of my favorite tools with you today. 

When it comes to building a brand you're dealing strictly with the "soul stuff." Your brand is the essence of your business. It is what will connect with others in an emotional level. A good way to really explore and strengthen the essence of your brand is to create a mood board. A mood board is like a vision board, but for your business. It is a collection of images that inspire the essence of a business. I always suggest that a mood board is used when creating a brand, when rebranding, or when trying to truly connect with an ideal client or audience. A mood board is also good to use to inspire new content and copy. I like to think of it as going on a brand scavenger hunt. 

So here's my secret to creating a truly inspiring mood board that will take your brand to the next level.

How to Create a Mood Board For Your Brand

Find and collect images that answer the following questions: 

If your brand was a person:

1. What would she/he wear?

Find images of clothing, prints, patterns, colors and textures that your brand would, wear or surround herself with if she was a person. Consider things like if she is into name brands, luxury, bargains, or a mixture.

2. Where what she/he go/travel?

Choose images of local restaurants, shops, establishments, cities, and countries that your brand would visit, frequent, and be intrigued by. Consider things like if she is a small town girl or a world traveler. Does she like traveling in the lap of luxury, is she a creature of comfort, or does she enjoy more of an adventure?

3. What types of things/activities is she/he interested in?

Secure photos that capture activities and miscellaneous things your brand would be interested in if she was a person. Is she an artist, dancer, or lawyer? Does she like street art, hot yoga, or cycling? Does she like sight seeing and window shopping or boat rides and horseback riding? 

4. What would she/he eat?

Add photos that showcase your brands absolute favorite foods! Is she a cupcake fiend? An ice cream lover? A veganista? A gourmet chef? Also consider things like where she would dine or go grocery shopping.

5. Who would she/he hang out with?

Incorporate photos of who your brand would be friends with if she was a person. If your brand had a celebrity bestie who would it be? Who is your brands go to girls? 

This may seem like it is purely for fun, but you'll be surprised at how much more you feel like you truly know your brand and at how well others respond to it!

Some great places to create brand mood board are Pinterest, Polyvore, and We Heart It. 

What will you be using your brand mood board for?