Small Business Saturday Featuring Blogger Days by Day

It’s about that time again, Small Business Saturday! As I’ve said before, I am so inspired by the countless women in my life who chase after their dreams and once a month I will be featuring one of these wonder women! I’m so excited to introduce you guys to Dayna from Days by Day. She and I actually went to University together (feels like ages ago! My we are getting old…) and she’s a blogger based out of Chicago. She’s a legit rep for #GirlBoss power and you can get to know her better with the interview below!

Days by Day

So Dayna, tell us a little bit about yourself and your blog! 

I’m a native Texan who moved from Austin to Chicago for my first big-girl job in the ad industry—that was a year and a half ago. Man, time flies! I’m married to my favorite person in the whole world. Personality wise, I’m silly, sassy, and passionate. I’m a lover of Jesus, photo booths, dance floors, doggies, Mexican food, and laughing till you cry. My lifestyle blog, Days by Day, is a space where I share things that interest and inspire me. I write about travels, thoughts, good eats, and fashion. I’d love to connect with you!

What motivated you to start it?

Writing and reading have been passions of mine for as long as I can remember. Starting a blog had been on my heart for a while, so a few years back I finally took the plunge and started Days By Day. I wanted a creative outlet where I could pursue these passions, and my love for photography, better. Blogging is so fun for me because it’s doing what I love!

Days by Day

What was the best advice a manager or mentor gave you?

One piece of advice I hold close is to never stop learning. It’s so simple, but holds so much value. Learning takes different forms for everyone—getting formal education, finding how-tos online, reading self-help books, etc.—but the point is to not be complacent and to continually grow. I think this kind of mentality feeds into our passions and relationships and helps us be our best self. I’ve also been continually told that persistence + passion pay off, so I always keep that top of mind.

Personally, what’s your favorite topic to blog about?

As a lifestyle blogger, there’s truly a variety I love to write about! Traveling would have to be my current favorite. I’ve been fortunate to visit lots of wonderful places, but after I backpacked through Western Europe a couple years ago, I knew I had a bad case of the travel bug that was here to stay! Whether it’s nearby getaways, big international trips, or even outings to explore my city, I love being able to share my adventures and tips for others’ visits.

Days by Day

When you face writer’s block, what do you do?

You guys, this can be tough! I keep a running list of thoughts on my phone and in a notepad to reference when I’m drawing a blank. Often times I need to take a break from the computer and let my mind recharge. Having good conversations with friends, sipping coffee in pretty cafes, and thinking about my goals or upcoming plans usually help jump-start some ideas!

What is your favorite post you’ve ever written and why?

My favorite post would probably be the story of how my husband and I came to date during my freshman year at The University of Texas. In addition to it being one of my most popular posts, I loved sharing those details, which are so much a part of who I am today, with my readers. The other reason it means so much to me is that I was able to capture my favorite story in time as a diary entry I can always go back to!  Our engagement in Paris is another popular post I feel the same way about.

Days by Day

When you aren’t blogging, what do you love to do?

I’m a lover of adventure, which I’m sure you’ve picked up on by now! When I’m not blogging, you can catch me exploring new neighborhood spots in the city or planning a trip with my husband. I also love to go dancing with my girlfriends, have game nights, and cozy up for a good movie at home. I’m obsessed with brunch and cozy sweaters (it’s been in the negatives, people!), so I might also be in pursuit of one of those haha.

What are some goals you’ve set for yourself in 2017 (blogging and/or non-blogging related)?

Blogging related, I’m aiming to be more consistent in my posts and engaging with the community. I would love to grow in my following and connect with other amazing women out there. I also want to break more into the fashion space! Life gets so busy, especially with work, but I know investing in my passions can really pay off. It would be a dream to blog as a career in a few years! Outside of my blog, I’m aiming to take at least one trip a month, read more, grow in the quiet time I spend with God, and really just enjoy my first year of marriage.

Days by Day

What’s your favorite thing about living in a big city?

I’ve definitely always been a city girl. There’s so much I love! It’s amazing to constantly meet people from all over the world and be exposed to different viewpoints. It keeps me learning and open minded. I also love not having to drive here in Chicago. The public transit is so reliable and makes life easy. The incredible food, architecture, style, and thriving atmosphere inspire me daily. We love being in The Windy City!

Wow! Isn’t she something else? You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram to keep up. If you’ve got any questions or thoughts, comment below my peeps! If you’re feeling that #girlpower flow, you can check out this article featuring Echols Photography and Design + Shelby Nickel Photography or Rowen + Rebecca.

Cheers,
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