Business, Blogging
Lauren Hooker
40 Ways to Use Adobe Illustrator to Improve ...

Adobe Illustrator is my go-to software for anything and everything design-related. It's the one program I truly couldn't work without.

And while it's easy to assume that the program's primary focus is illustration based on the name, there is so much more to this design software. 

With tools for type, color, photo cropping, image tracing, drawing, and much more, it has innumerable benefits for bloggers and business owners, alike.

To get your creative gears turning, here's a look at 40 ways Adobe Illustrator can take your blog and/or business to the next level.

40 Ways to Use Adobe Illustrator to Improve Your Blog and Business
Blogging, Business, Branding, Design
Lauren Hooker
How to Create Eye-Catching Blog Post Graphics

First impressions are crucial, especially in business.

Potential customers and clients make judgments about your business within the first few seconds of coming into contact with it, whether it’s through your website, your social media accounts, or a simple blog post graphic.

And those initial thoughts - whether they’re spot on or far off from what you want them to be - are within your control. You have the opportunity to make a killer first impression through high-quality, branded visuals.

If your blog is a large part of your business or you’re hoping to drive more traffic back to your site through your blog, you have to have eye-catching blog graphics to not only generate a positive first impression, but to encourage readers to share your posts on sites like Pinterest and be seen by an even wider audience.

So how do you create eye-catching blog post graphics? And better yet, how can you set them apart so they’ll stand out from the rest and be recognized time and time again?

How to Create Eye-Catching Blog Post Graphics
Business, Visual Marketing
Lauren Hooker
40 Easy, Engaging Video Content Ideas for Your ...

“When I discovered YouTube, I didn’t work for 5 days.” - Michael Scott

Video platforms like YouTube (and more recently, Periscope) are easily the world’s greatest time-wasters. We’ve all been guilty of losing track of time on YouTube at least once, because videos are easily consumable, very addicting, and highly entertaining.

As a matter of fact, studies show that a whopping 78% of us watch videos online every week and 55% watch videos online every day.

Which is why Youtube is also the world’s greatest overnight-success-maker. If you’re on the production-side of a video and you’ve come up with a clever idea, you might just have a viral hit on your hands.

Video holds a lot of potential for interaction, engagement, and shares for creative businesses. And for that reason, it’s one of the best visual marketing tools you can use.

But it producing videos can be a little overwhelming, can’t it? Even with helpful video tools out there like Animoto, many of us struggle to come up with simple ideas for video content that would appeal to our audience. 

And that’s where this post comes in. I’ve rounded up 40 easy, engaging video content ideas to help get your creative gears turning. My hope is that you’ll find a few ideas to implement and as a result, bring your business more exposure.

40 Easy, Engaging Video Content Ideas for Your Creative Business
Business, Visual Marketing
Lauren Hooker
Why You Should Be Using Infographics for Your ...

If you’re looking for a good way to kill at least an hour of your time, type in the word “infographic” in the Pinterest search bar.

Thousands of clever graphics will pop up on everything from “how to make a salad taste awesome” to a baby’s first year in a review. There’s even an infographic that answers the pressing question, “Is your dog sleeping a little too much?”

Then, after you’ve admired the genius creativity behind them, take a gander at how many repins and likes each of those infographics receives. Thousands upon thousands.

In fact, infographic volumes have increased by over 800% in 2 years. Publishers who use infographics grow in traffic an average of 12% more than those who don’t. 

What is it about infographics that makes them so appealing? And better yet, how can you come up with some clever infographics for your business so it gains more exposure through likes and shares?

I have all the answers for you in this post.

Why You Should Be Using Infographics for Your Business (And How to Create Them)
Blogging
Lauren Hooker
How to Create Catchy Headlines

Is your headline the first thing you consider when you sit down to write a post?

Probably not, but creating a catchy blog post title is one of the most important aspects of each blog post. It's the gateway to your content; it convinces people to click or scroll right past your latest post'. 

In fact, studies show that 8 out of 10 people will read your headline but only 2 out of 10 will read your entire post. 

Here are a few pointers for drawing in potential readers and a couple "templates" to help you create a catchy headline for your upcoming posts. 

How to Create Catchy Headlines

Coffee Date

Coffee Date with Kirstin Johnston

When I think about my dear friend Kirstin, one word comes to mind - JOY. You can see it in her sweet smile and it dances around in her pretty eyes. Every time I'm around her I can't help but walk away with cheeks sore from smiling and a heart that is encouraged.

I've treasured getting to know Kirstin better over this past year through several coffee dates and Facebook chats. I have gleaned so much from this wise lady, wife, and mama - she truly is wise beyond her years. I pray that her contagious joy and her kind heart reach you today. 

KIRSTIN JOHNSTON

What is the first thing you did this morning?

Every morning, I set my alarm to get up before my little man does. It gives me a chance to get in a cup of coffee and my devotion time. Our days go much smoother when I make it a priority to start each day with my heart and mind focused on the Lord.

What is something you've been loving lately?

I have recently started training for a half marathon... again. I started in 2011, then had to stop when I found out I was pregnant. I started running again after I had Austin and have continues to do so, but actually training and pushing myself with a goal in mind has been great. It's challenging, a great stress reliever, and fun to hit those milestones. I'm loving racking up the miles and building endurance.

What is something you struggle with and what are you learning as a result?

Oh man, how much time do you have? Ha! Lately, I've really been struggling with my comfort zone. It can be so easy to just say and do what you are comfortable with, but where is the fun and challenge in that? God has really laid it on my heart to step outside of my comfort and do more for Him. That lady in Starbucks, share the Gospel with her. That mom in Kroger who looks frazzled, invite her to our weekly Bible Study. My preacher says "Christianity is simply one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread." How selfish is it for me to not share the redemptive, freeing love of Christ because I am feeling shy?

Life can get stressful. What are some things you do to simplify?

As a mom and wife, when I am stressed, others feel the weight of it. I have to make myself plan ahead. A big one for me is our weekly family calendar. We have all of our activities, commitments, and meals planned out for convenience. It also helps me not commit to too much at a time. Before I agree to do something or be somewhere I ask myself, "Is this a beneficial, wise investment of my time and effort?" That question has saved me from stretching myself too thin.

And just for fun, what is something that made you smile this week?

The list could go on and on, I have SO much to be thankful for. I would have to pick our time playing outside. After all the beautiful snow, it was nice to have some warmer weather and lots of sunshine. Watching my boys running through the yard, chasing each other and getting dirty as boys do, I couldn't STOP smiling. 

I know you're probably wishing that you could catch up with Kirstin all the time. Well friend, you're in luck! Kirstin has a blog, These Moments Called Life. Head on over and get to know this pretty lady even better.

Now it's your turn. What have you been loving lately? How do you simplify when life gets busy?

Coffee Date with Leigh Carter

Meet my role model and dear friend, Leigh. Although I've only truly known her for a year and a half, she's become one of the first people I go to for godly wisdom and advice. She's that honest, faithful friend that tells you like it is; Leigh doesn't sugarcoat or people please. But she's also that friend who will pray beautiful prayers over you and point you right to truth. I just love her. 

Leigh has some really neat life experience and she's faithfully served God as a seminary student, a missionary in North Africa, and now as a missionary in Southeast Roanoke. I'm thrilled for you to spend some time with her this morning because I just know that you'll walk away encouraged. 

LEIGH CARTER

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What is the first thing you did this morning?

I made a cup of coffee :) Typically, I roll out of bed, start the coffee pot, then I brush my teeth and wash the sleep out of my eyes. By the time I do that and make my bed, the coffee is ready... so, I grab my Bible and enjoy a cup of coffee along with some Jesus.

What is something you've been loving lately?

Lately, I've been loving the SNOW. Truly - I love the beauty of the white blanket covering the earth. It's a great reminder of being washed white as snow by the blood of Jesus - and not just covered with righteousness but WASHED CLEAN by it. Hallelujah.

PLUS with snow I love that I'm stuck at home, unable to get into the busyness of life. What do I do on snow days? Yesterday I baked muffins, painted furniture, wrote cards, organized merchandise for The Meadow Lily, read Real Simple magazine, and watched How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days. So really, I just catch up on the things I would do if I didn't have a full time desk job! Today's agenda: catch up on emails, paint more furniture, shovel as a workout, paint my nails, and watch the Olympics.

What is something you struggle with and what are you learning as a result?

What do I struggle with? Geez... which thing do I pick? I struggle with taking the Gospel for granted and instead working for my salvation. This is a continual struggle for me as a first-born, task-oriented, (slight) perfectionist. Jesus, help me.

We are studying Philippians as a church and through the study God has reminded me that I often behave as one of the self-righteous Jews Paul speaks to in Philippians 3. They do all the "right" things and don't do any of the "wrong" things and have the outward appearance of being perfect.

I marvel at Paul's attitude. He counted EVERYTHING as trash compared to the worth of knowing Jesus. He understands and explains that Jesus' work of death on the cross and resurrection from the dead is the only thing that will truly be right about any sinful human. It's nothing that I do or don't do... it's only Jesus. What a relief not to work for God's love!

I am currently meditating on the truth of Philippians 3 and just asking God to change me. Oh Lord, change me. Strip my heart of pride, jealousy, fear, and surface love and replace those things with humility, genuine love for others, boldness, and a deep appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Life can get stressful. What are some things you do to simplify?

Pray. Honestly, I just ask God to take away the things I don't need, to take care of the details that I can't, and to help me complete the tasks He has put before me. Also, I've been trying to leave at least 3 weekday evenings open with no regularly scheduled events so I that I can hang out with friends, have people over, and serve others freely. 

And just for fun, what is something that made you smile this week?

My 36th birthday was Monday, and I got lots of love from friends and family. I am loved and aI am thankful for the wonderful people God has put into my life. On this day I also opened my first online store on Etsy: The Meadow Lily. I'm looking forward to a wonderful new year of life!

To see Leigh's gorgeous photos (like the 2 above) visit The Meadow Lily on Etsy and go ahead and like it on Facebook, too :)

Happy Friday, friends!

Coffee Date with Kristin Bandy

Kristin has a way of lighting up a room. I have never met a girl whose smile is more contagious and whose heart is more sincere. She a great way slipping jokes into casual conversation; if you aren't paying attention you just might miss them, but if you catch them in time they will leave you in stitches. I'm proud to say that our friendship has endured for over 18 years, from elementary school bus rides through the long-distance of college. God used Kristin's faithful heart in my own testimony and her friendship will always hold a special place in my heart.

I have a feeling that in just the 5 minutes you'll spend with her this morning you will grow to love her too.

KRISTIN BANDY

What is the first thing you did this morning?

Swished coconut oil around in my mouth. Weird, right? Well let me explain. I have a cavity. And the last cavity I had filled I cried (of course I was only 21 years old at the time - nearly a toddler). So I did some research and found out that sometimes teeth can heal on their own by changing your diet, swishing coconut oil, and things such as those!

No more dentist with his scary drill gun for this gal... at least not for this month.

What is something you've been loving lately?

The sunrise. If I'm still in bed around 7:00 I can open my blinds and watch it as it comes up over the mountains. I enjoy those simple mornings lying in bed talking to Jesus and watching the morning begin.

Coconut oil (surprise, surprise), my fellow co-workers, and the sweet kids I get to teach.

What is something you struggle with and what are you learning as a result?

Keeping control of my mind and thinking on things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable (Philippians 4:8). I'm learning that God is good. Not only in the sense that He is good to us, His children. But in the sense that He is good to dwell on, He is good to fill my life with, He is good to love, He is good to talk to. The list could go on :)

Life can get stressful. What are some things you do to simplify?

It's so easy to busy our days and literally fill them to the brim. I had a good friend who made the comment that she only plans one thing a night.

I thought that was great advice so I've tried to implement it too. Instead of planning dinner with a friend at 5:00, then coffee with a friend at 6:30, then a movie at 9 - planning one thing an evening. Not only will I be less stressed, but I'll be more intentional with the friend I'm spending time with and they will feel more loved in return.

And just for fun, what is something that made you smile this week?

I called my family and talked with my little sister (she's 6 and a ball of fire). She sang me a Valentine's Day song that she made up. I heard all four versions AND 2 versions of her song "I Love My Sisters". How could that not melt your heart and make you smile?

Coffee Date with Andrea Pesce

If you're ever looking for a talented photographer and a sweet friend, Andrea Pesce is your gal. You can see her talent all over this site; her creative eye captured all of the lovely product photos and headshots for Elle & Company. Didn't she do such a great job?! I couldn't have done it without her gifts and encouragement. 

This beautiful lady works hard and laughs often. Give her a task and she will not only go above and beyond - she will find so much joy in it. Her excitement and passion for her job is contagious, but there's much more to Andrea than photography. I'm excited for you to get to know my dear friend Andrea this morning!

ANDREA PESCE

What is the first thing you did this morning?

Hit snooze on my alarm and snuggled with Lexi till it went off again :), THEN called my husband Frank to say good morning. He leaves for work at an ungodly hour, so I usually don't see him (or at least remember it) in the mornings.

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What is something you've been loving lately?

Dry shampoo! How did I live without this before now?

What is something you struggle with, and what are you learning as a result?

I really struggle to have a fridge full of food and a meal on the table more than a few days a week! Most of the time it's because I'd rather be doing anything else than grocery shopping or cooking, but I feel like God's been showing me how much you can show someone you love them by having a meal made. I'm also learning my mom was/is wonder woman!

Life can get stressful. What are some things you do to simplify?

I do two things: I ask myself 'why' and then I rearrange! For me, if there isn't a good 'why' for something I'm doing then it probably  can go instead of adding another thing to the already lengthy to-do list. Living with purpose is extremely important to me. And I have no idea what started this, but I feel like a new person when I can sit down and things are new and fresh in my home, even when nothing else has changed. Frank jokes that if he came home and didn't look before he sat down, he would end up on the floor or have bruises on his shins. 

And just for fun, what is something that made you smile this week?

A friend of mine found out I was an ENFP and sent me this link. If you are an ENFP you will smile too. Especially if you are married to a J :)

 

For more encouragement and daily happenings from Andrea (and to get a glimpse at all of her latest work!), head on over to her site, Andrea Pesce Photography. And go ahead and 'like' her Facebook page and follow her on Instagram while you're at it!

Now it's your turn to join in the conversation. How do you simplify? Do you have a habit of rearranging things to gain a fresh perspective and a new start? I'm oh-so glad you stopped by today, friend. Happy Friday!

Coffee Date with Jenny Constantin

Meet my best friend and twin, Jenny. We may not look so much alike in appearance, but the similarities between our backgrounds and personalities are uncanny (our husbands both agree). Although we've known each other since those awkward middle school years, we didn't become close friends until college. We've run half-marathons together, we were in each others' weddings, and my day feels a little empty if I haven't messaged her on Google Hangouts at least twice. 

Jenny is radiant, both inside and out. Her smile is contagious, her encouragement is endless, and her heart is golden. God used this faithful friend in my own redemption story and He continues to use her in my life daily. I am so excited for you to get to know her better over coffee this morning! 

JENNY CONSTANTIN

What is the first thing you did this morning?

Rolled over and kissed my husband. Married life is pretty great! Then I jetted off to teach Jazzercise at 5:45 AM.

What have you been loving lately?

My office (I painted the walls and I'm working on organizing!) peanut butter and banana, and the fact that Downton Abbey is back - I even named my cat Lady Mary.

What is something you struggle with, and what are you learning as a result?

That God desires my heart, not my feeble attempts at bringing him perfection. So much of my identity pre-Christ was enveloped in trying to be perfect. It's exhausting and ultimately attempting to be God. He is perfect, I am not.

My junior year of college was the year Jesus finally opened my eyes to who I am. My identity lies solely in Christ. I am NOTHING without Him. He gives me worth, purpose, and breath. Everything else is non-essential but amazing grace all-the-same: wife, sister, daughter, aunt, friend, engineer, Jazzercise-lover and slightly type-A.

Photo credit Jessica Mae Photography

Photo credit Jessica Mae Photography

Life can get stressful. What are some things you do to simplify?

Whew... if only I were better at this! So much of my stress is self-imposed, making me thankful beyond words for my husband. He is the instrument God has used to keep the first priority at the top, and all the things that aren't so important can wait until later.

We plan out our week on Sunday, getting all our activities, meals and "hope-to-get-dones" out on the table. This saves a LOT of petty fights from invading our home. Matt also makes me grocery shop every Saturday. I really don't like to go, so his accountability helps. Getting it done makes Sunday our rest day, where all the shopping and cleaning is done and we can relax.

I strongly suggest keeping Sunday as the Sabbath, a day of rest. Resting in Christ, resting physically. God knew what He was doing!

Photo credit Jessica Mae Photography

Photo credit Jessica Mae Photography

And just for fun, what is something that made you smile this week?

So we got our wedding pictures back and my nephew has some HILARIOUS faces. I'm going to be keeping these on my desk... and saving one for display at his wedding one day :)

 

For more encouragement and daily happenings from Jenny, head on over to her blog, Abandon & Abide. 

It's your turn to join in the conversation! What are some things you have been loving lately? What was the first thing you did this morning? I hope you have a wonderful weekend, sweet friends. Happy Friday!