Whats In My Bag: The Extended Version
Recently, RVA Magazine asked me a fairly personal question– “What’s in my Bag?” Myself, as well as other Virginia creatives including photographers and painters were eager to answer. I quickly became excited about writing about my career and some favorite little things that get me through the day. I didn’t have quite enough words to share all I wanted. I felt like some of my answers might come in handy to you beautiful women out there. Maybe you’re moving your way up, within your company. Perhaps you’re swinging a machete to create your own path and destiny. Either way, you need the right tools. For this reason, I felt compelled to share the full version of my “What’s in my Bag?” over here on Sweet Sauce.
We all don’t have the same careers, brains, or style. You’ll find that this mix of items is very much “me”. You might also notice a no-fuss approach in my among my go-to beauty items. I don’t think there is a one-size-fits all combination for any boss babe reading this right now, but I do, however, hope it inspires you to think long and hard about what you need to be the best you every day. Sometimes that might mean making a little extra investment, even if it feels silly. What’s in your bag is more important than what you’re wearing (gasp!). It’s surprising, yet empowering that the right computer cover can make your workflow more simple while it also makes you smile. Similarly, the power of the perfect planner can be life changing for many. Knowing what beauty supplies you can quickly use in between meetings can boost your confidence, and therefor your overall performance. Big deal!
As you may know, I am a blogger, freelance writer, and marketing specialist. During a single day, I could be interviewing a business owner for an article, leading a marketing strategy meeting for a client, prepping for a blog project, or working by a pool. Amidst scraps of paper, business cards, and other random items I acquire throughout the day, these are the essentials in my bag. I’ve found exact and similar items for each category. Click through the images, add to your cart, and ask yourself what you really need in your bag to feel like a dime, a really really smart one…
1. Daily planner – While I rely heavily on my Google Calendar, I still use paper for taking notes and making lists. My planner is never too far away. Instead of writing appointments in the daily planner, I write out tasks to complete each day. It’s my ongoing, ever changing project list with deadlines and goals. I’m always hunting for one that will work best for me.
2. iPhone – I shoot and edit photos, write notes, edit my website, manage three social media accounts, edit short videos, scan contracts, send emails, order Lyfts, and even write articles from my phone. I recently upgraded to the iPhone 8 Plus for the speed and space. I need the large screen for writing emails and editing photos. I am totally loyal to Speck phone cases. They are the most effective at preventing your phone from breaking, and are sleek and effective to boot. I found a few cute designs and added them to my wishlist.
3. MacBook Pro – This was my first big business purchase in 2017. I purchased my original Mac upon starting college in 2005. I figured it was about time for an upgrade. The smaller design is more mobile. I can set it on my lap and take notes just about anywhere. This is what you’ll see me bring to interviews and meetings pretty much every day. I house all of my photos and creative software here. It took me a few tries to find the right computer cover. I love the sleeve I found on Amazon.
4. A Handy Dandy Notebook – I always keep a fresh notebook with me for sketches, client meetings, and ideas. If I have an idea, I have to write it down. I like to splurge on high quality notebooks when I travel. It’s the most useful souvenir a writer can buy.
5. Kombucha – I’m obsessed with the Gingerade flavor from Synergy. I get a handful delivered every week via Shipt, a grocery delivery service. It keeps me energized and healthy.
6. Emergen-C – Getting sick is even worse when you’re an entrepreneur. There are no paid sick days or vacation days available. I travel, I drink, I stay active.This stuff keeps me from crashing. I’ve definitely held a off a forthcoming cold with this stuff. I throw it in my water every few days, especially if I’ve been going hard or if I have a big trip coming up.
7. Lip gloss – If I was on an island and I was able to bring one thing, it would be lip gloss. I always feel put together when I glide it on. I stick to iridescent and translucent shades with a sheen. I just want a little color, a little moisture and don’t want to have to look at a mirror every time I put it on. Lately, I’m wearing Posy by L’Oreal. I stock up on it whenever I see it in the drug store or Target. We all know I’m a new fan of Bobbi Brown and other classics. I dab a little on my cheeks for added color, too!
8. Perfume oil – I love a good roll on scent. I discovered a Wild Honeysuckle oil I love at Mod & Soul. The store carries a variety of floral scents. I roll it on my wrists, neck and temples for a refresh in the middle of the day or night. I also roll some on my hands and rub it in for extra moisture when I need it.
9. Wireless Headphones – No hands! I keep a few pairs around because I can’t ever seem to find them when I need them. Wireless headphones allow me to plug in and work anywhere. I keep a few work playlists on my Spotify account including one I discovered called Brain Food. It’s filled with smooth electronic tracks designed to keep your mind in the zone. I also love playing just about anything to drown out exterior distractions when I really need to focus. I also take phone calls using the wireless headphones. I can keep my hands free to taking notes or cleaning around the office. I invested in the highest rated headphones that had the right kind of ear shape for me.
