Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Henley.
Lauren, please share your story with us.
I created the opportunity to further amplify my voice in the world of self-help, self-image, and fashion. In 2016, I created the Alexis Swank to serve as a creative reference and influence with a style focus to hub your favorite fashion finds, inquiries, debates, and opinions. Originating from a blog on Tumblr, alexisswank.com is now the platform I use to further cultivate and encourage expressions of one’s personal sense of style, while also highlighting my own. A Dallas, Texas native, I work in corporate America by day, and as a style enthusiast by night. I enjoy creating content that lets me express my thoughts, beliefs, and opinions through fashion with inspiration stemming from the actual art and work of creating looks for men and women. I spend most of my free time as a style consultant and provide a deeper exploration of my style centered thoughts with my blog. My passion is to create and enhance looks for men and women, showcasing the best-dressed version of themselves. On my website, you can see where I share fashion tips, express myself through my wardrobe, and provide a nice variety of creative services. Thank you, for letting me share my heart, wardrobe, and fashion inclined way of thinking. Two years later, this is only the beginning.
Has it been a smooth road?
I would say my biggest struggle has been maintaining consistency with creative content. Blogging was originally an outlet for me, where I somewhat began a fashion diary. After realizing the passion for style and passion, I was honestly terrified to share it with the world. Who wants to share their (fashion) diary with everyone, you know? Once I started sharing and making my content available to the public, the support was immense. Then, the pressure of expectations and quality content slowly turned to blog into a chore, and I had to distance myself. I took a year off to fall in love all over again with my craft, developing new interests in styling others and designing denim. This lead to me getting confidently back into the swing of blogging, launching a website, and showcasing the other services I had grown a love for.
As a young creative, I strongly believe in not forcing creativity or content. While cultivating creativity, I have often had to recharge and remove myself from constant engagement with my brand. Over time, I have learned how to better manage by planning and preparing for those dry periods, so I always have content available and at hand, whether old or new. I am a firm believer in creating from my heart and mind because my passion is displayed best when both are aligned. I encourage other women to make time for your mind to rest, regardless of the constant demand or need for your creativity, If your outlet becomes your workplace, find something else to serve as a mental getaway and disengage when needed. I find it healthy and it jumpstarts my creative mind to start working again once recharged.
We’d love to hear more about Lauren Alexis Swank.
I specialize in creating looks for men and women. With consultations, personal shopping, and closet renovations, What I enjoy most is creating experiences for people. Wardrobe can really be a reflection of self-image, self-worth, and confidence. Clothing has the power to shade distinctions, signify status, and reinforce an outward expression of your inner self. I’ve always had confidence because my parents allowed and encouraged me to express myself. I hope to instill that confidence in others.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
You have to be your own cheerleader at times, and that’s okay. Sometimes, I struggle with feeling as if I am the only person pushing or supporting my brand, I’ve learned that no one will toot your horn louder than you will for yourself, and that confidence creates doors and opportunities for other people to do the same. I am still looking to secure a mentor because I feel mentorship is so important in any industry. With the competitive and busy nature of this industry, I have yet to really solidify someone. I do follow a lot of influencers and personal fashion icons for inspiration. A few of my favorites are: Ms.Hunter, the founder of Her Favorite LA, Vashtie, Downtown’s Sweetheart and Creative Genius, Dani Rios, founder of Little Mexico and childhood friend, and Green Eyes Gold Soul, Courtney B., the boss behind The B Werd.
Pricing:
- Consults – $50/hr
- Custom Designs – $45
- On site creative assistance – $50/hr
Contact Info:
- Website: alexisswank.com
- Email: lhenley408@gmail.com
- Instagram: @alexisswank
- Other: alexisswank.tumblr.com and Lauren Alexis Swank on Pinterest
Image Credit:
Driven Image Photography, JHoward Photos, Breanica Jackson Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
