New Kid in Town: How to Get Involved Locally

Since moving to Colorado I have had a whirlwind of a time getting to know the area and making friends. Fortunately for me, my cousin Rebecca, writer of the Novice Native fashion blog, moved here as well. The two of us began seeking out boutique blogger events, festivals and social events weekly. We knew we wanted to become acquainted with the Denver scene and fast so the best way was to jump in head first. Below are a few helpful tips I've learned since moving here about getting involved in order to get your brand seen. 

1. Introduce Yourself, Be Vulnerable

Getting to know people is the first step. Months before I ever moved to Colorado I began sourcing photographers. I knew if I came here I'd need connections so I thought to start early. That's how I met Noah Berg with Noah Berg Photography and Walnut Street Photography. I asked if he would be open to meeting for coffee and the rest was history. Put yourself out there! If you don't think that you're worth meeting than people wont think so either. Show people you're worth knowing and you have something to bring to the table! 

2. Collaborate & Cross-Promote

I've communicated with local boutiques and brands about collaborating and more likely than not if I asked, "Would you be open to a collaboration?", their answer was YES! If you're new or trying to build your brand start small- where you are located. Get to know your local shops (retail, hospitality, work-out facilities, restaurants) and tell them how much you love their brand. Everyone loves to be recognized for their hard work so before you go and try to sell your brand, promote something or someone that you admire first. Then people will be much more open to working together with you to cross-promote. 

3. Attend Social Events

Other than my cousin and family, I didn't know a soul! I was starting from scratch. The fabulous Whorl boutique was hosting a Friday night event with my now precious girl friend Desiré, of Darling, Be Daring blog, so Rebecca and I decided to go. Rain and all, we made our way over to the party to shop and meet like-minded people. We had a blast! Instead of keeping to ourselves, shopping and disappearing when we thought no one would notice, we introduced ourselves to everyone and from there began forming relationships with bloggers, the shop owner, and staff. This applies for bloggers in all markets. Find the best source for fashion and events in your city then start attending the gatherings. Do you see a local blogger is also there that you've always wanted to meet? Message her! The worst that could happen is nothing. Nothing is worth the risk.

4. Be a Genuine Friend

Lastly, be sincere in your encounters. When I started forming relationships with local fashionistas, they didn't stem from "What can I get out of this?" but more so "OMGOSH this girl loves fashion, she's sweet and cool, and I want to be her best friend!" For real, the fashion scene in Denver (growing as it is) is a very supportive and loving community. Be real! Girls, we can smell fake a mile away. If you ask a girl to coffee- actually make concrete plans with her to grab cup of coffee! We can always tell if someone is being nice to keep up appearances. I have met the most amazing friends since living here because of the genuine desire we have to see each other succeed. 

Bloggers- you may be a fabulous writer or an amazing stylist, but without physically putting yourself out there, there is a disconnect and honestly it's way more fun to find others just like you who are striving to achieve similar goals! 

Photography by Noah Berg Photography

If you live in Denver you know I went to Little Man Ice Cream and 1) The staff member must have read me well because she asked me "Do you want me to make it really pretty?" Duh yes. And 2) The second I got it, it melted immediately so excuse the messy photos (notice all the sprinkles on the concrete in the last photo).

This skirt is retro, feminine, stylish and the most perfect twirling dress if that's your sorta thing. Purchased from the dynamic duo at Patterns and Pops fashion truck in Denver, it's on SALE right now for $32 and should be nabbed up by you ASAP. These girls are kind, brilliant and hard workers. I had the pleasure of meeting them at a Whorl event shortly after moving here and collaborated with them on ANOTHER project which will be on the site mid-September! My favorite part about this skirt is the lining which falls below the knee so I know its completely covering (perfect for a tall chick.)

Purchase the feminine skirt HERE :) Only extra smalls left now

Rings: Jewelius Boutique

Bracelets: Socialite Pink

Bandana: Hobby Lobby

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