PR Blonde

PRBLONDE & Some Big News –

Lauren — Fri, 17 May 2013 05:01:57 +0000

You guys know I am really good at teasing secrets. I am like the Gretchen Wiener’s in high-school that unlike her said, “I’ve got to tell you something…” then made you sweat it out and go almost stir crazy over it all through your Calculus class. Call me devious but trust me this is one secret I wanted to wait and share at the right time!

THE BIG NEWS: I’M MOVING TO…

I’ve spent 7 years in Dallas. I owe this city my college education, the start of my career and some of the best friends I will ever have throughout my life. I think about who I was when I got here – and if you told me that this was where I was going to end up, the career the friends, THIS BLOG, I would have laughed at you but then again nothing is really ever as you plan now is it? It’s been such a great story so far and I can’t tell you how blessed I feel.

I think even as I write this post, which I have tried to write all week, I can’t fully grasp that I am leaving. It still doesn’t seem real – I mean 7 years – that isn’t a drop in the bucket. But it’s time for a new adventure – Big-D (Dallas – for you out of towners) gets to take its crack at PRBrother now – all on his own. Of course I’ll be back for visits, but one that will include a friend’s couch or a hotel Not my amazing 1 bedroom apartment that I wish I could shrink ray and take with me to the Big Apple! Rather New York City will become my “apartment.” They say New Yorkers live in New York – not enclosed by walls but by rivers. I’m absolutely looking forward to that.

To my office – Thanks for shaping me, molding me and teaching me all the things that fuel my PR POV’s! I owe my love for this industry to my agency. I’m looking forward to continuing my career with this fabulous and growing agency in New York and seeing where it takes me – hopefully in places where many PR POV’s are flowing from my fingers.

To my city – There’s nothing I can say but thanks for the southern hospitality, teaching me that Mac & Cheese is a vegetable, Sweet Tea is always an option and showing me some KILLER big Texas sky sunsets. (For real – you can’t beat ‘em! It should be the 8^th wonder of the world…)

And last but never least…

To my Bestie - You said you would kill me if I didn’t write a little something in this post to you! (spoken like a true friend!) But the truth is – I would have done it anyway. I’m getting teary writing it much like the tears we already shed in your apartment last week. You’re my sister, My “Bestie” and truly my partner in crime, man do we have stories we’re going to take to the grave! But that’s exactly how it should be – rich in stories! I will miss you tons and I am still holding out hope that we will live in NYC together like we always planned. So with that, after 6 years and 40+ weeks and to the time we don’t remember meeting, I can’t say this is goodbye, just see you later.

I mean like Rachel and Monica said – “It’s the end of an era.”

There will be more ABBA, sauvignon blanc, eye-rolls, delusional road trips, apartment dancing, unnecessary shopping, ‘total betch moves’ and of course stories to come… I’m sure of it.

Well for all the readers – I’ve got time, thank god I am not moving next week or else my still fully “NOT PACKED” apartment would give my shingles if that was the case. But trust me the journey starts tomorrow as I head to NYC and start my apartment search! I figured there are going to be way too many satirical moments that will be worth sharing – like the funny one about the closet/bathroom combo I feel like I am going to find.

Here goes nothing kids – wish me LUCK!

…and for a little music to walk out with… (C.S. this is mostly for our sing alongs! I’m sure we can master this one!)

Currently Crushing Finds –

Lauren — Thu, 16 May 2013 05:20:50 +0000

As we are heading into the warm weather I am loving the island inspired fabrics. The dress below from ASOS’ Vero Moda – under $25! Remember – click on the links at the bottom to shop the post. Like a few other items that you want to see – you can always click “LOOKBOOK” on my navigation bar.

From L to R:

The Bachelorette: Desiree’s Men –

Lauren — Tue, 14 May 2013 05:41:31 +0000

Well yesterday was reveal day as ABC’s The Bachelorette released it’s 25 card deck and gallery of guys that will be vying for Desiree Hartsock’s heart in the 9th installment of The Bachelorette. I have to say though this lot looks pretty good – they still can’t rival that of my favorite crop of boys from Ali Fedotowsky’s season 6.

This year ABC did a little something different. The savvy PR/Web Asset designer’s thought “Hey let’s put some of their chicken scratch from their questionnaire’s online.” Well I am not a damn graphologist – so their illegible handwriting isn’t going to tell me squat. Rather it’s just going to prove who passed the first grade unit on cursive and those who failed with answers resulting in “I idolize my fahjja#%aoid^)%oasd ao#%&*sdfanl.” – case and point, chicken scratch.

So what can you expect from this bunch -

1. An average height of about 6′ 2″ with about 5 guys 6′ 4″ and over. (See I told ya – they cast her the tall ones!)

2. A few Dad’s – and undoubtedly some Baby Mama Drama. So far there are at least 3 with little tikes.

3. A lot of really bad taste in movies including but not limited to The Lucky One, The Goonies, Transformers (about 4X over) and The Notebook - cheers to you romantic saps!

4. Some serious Doppelgangers including two guys who I swear could be in the original cast of Brink from the Disney Channel!

5. Some SERIOUS potential! Read carefully ladies. They may need a handwriting class, a box of tissues for your ron-com dates but this lot has got some good solid guys looking for love! I wouldn’t be surprised if we find a true winner in this group – well done ABC!

Now without further ado let’s get to the bread and butter – my man-judgments. Boy’s think of me like Des’ hard to please ‘bestie.’ Ain’t nobody gettin’ to my girl without a few little barbs from me. You see, it just wouldn’t be as much fun if I was nice to you right off the bat – I’ll as for forgiveness later.

So flip through Des’ little black book – see how they measure up with a little more from each guy. Hint click in the center for a full screen view!

See I wasn’t a total witch, well… I’ll for forgiveness later! I’ll post the full gallery next week so you can check back throughout the season for your favorites.

Top 5 so far: Robert (Bobby), Zak K., Zak W., Brooks and Dan!

and don’t forget…

THE BACHELORETTE SEASON 9 PREMIERES

Monday, May 27th at 8/7c on ABC

Oh and p.s. Chris Harrison – It’s been a long rough road but I think our “break” was good for both of us. Looking forward to our reunion and moving forward with our TV screen relationship.

PR POV: Fashion PR/Couture Style –

Lauren — Mon, 13 May 2013 19:51:17 +0000

One thing I have always appreciated about the blogger world is frankly its not that big. It may seem like everyone has a blog – but those that are committed to making it instead of faking it – those are the bloggers we all know love and follow.

PRCouture is one of those long standing portals dedicated to not only fashion but Public Relations and perfect marriage that exists between the two. Looking for a job? Need best practices for how to pitch a style outlet or simply recover from bad press? PRCouture has got it all!

BUT SOMETHINGS COMING! My new friend (yes, Friend – I think I can call her that which makes me feel like I’m friends with a celebrity) E.I.C. Crosby Noricks – shared with me that PRCouture is getting a face lift! After The award winning site is bringing you a brand new “clean and savvy” look at Fashion PR. In a world where the most recognizable face is Samantha Jones, PR Couture is breaking down those barriers and giving a real take to those looking to break into the “biz” and how to succeed when you are in the media trenches. (Note: PRLadies – This should be YOUR BIBLE! along with PRBlonde and NYCPRGirls – of course!)

I started following PRCouture in 2008, started following Founder/E.I.C. Crosby Noricks on Twitter in 2009 and have been worshiping it’s content ever since. So when I found out that I was going to get to meet the infamous Ms. Norick’s a coveted voice in the Fashion PR world and a season Pro herself at LuckyFabb, I jumped at the chance!

Come celebrate the new PR Couture. Join Crosby for a conversation about the new site, the evolution of PR Couture and a chance to ask any questions you may have about fashion PR, Fashion PR Confidential or your career path. One lucky PR Girl (or Guy) will win a free 30-minute consulting session with Crosby, just for hanging out!

JOIN US: Thursday, May 16th here on Spreecast! I’ll be sending out links all week so keep checking the PRBlonde Facebook Page for more info!

With college careers rounding out for senior’s if you are thinking about a career in Fashion PR check out Fashion PR Confidential. A two-day “intensive workshop unlocking all the secrets of Fashion PR.” To learn how season Pro’s build their media lists, engage with bloggers/influencers and network with some of the biggest fashion houses in PR as well as how to navigate events – this is the place to start. The master class brings in some of the most influential names in the Digital Fashion PR Space – Check out this video from last year:

Fashion PR Confidential: New York from Danika Daly PR on Vimeo.

If you are in the Los Angeles area or looking to take a little R&R and learn a thing or two this is something you wont want to miss – trust me, I’d be there!

IF YOU WILL BE IN LOS ANGELES & WANT TO ATTEND: REGISTER HERE

Want to learn more about Fashion PR Con – E-mail: info@fashionprconfidential.com

I’m excited to say – I’ll be doing more with my “celebrity friend/Fashion PR mastermind” Crosby & Fashion PR Bible Portal site (PRCouture) in the coming months. Plans are still bubbling kids – and as any girl in PR knows don’t take the cookies out of the oven before they are fully baked.” – There’s some wisdom for ya!

LAST MINUTE MOTHER’S DAY: GIFT GUIDE –

Lauren — Sat, 11 May 2013 05:01:47 +0000

Yep, it’s Saturday. Mother’s Day is Sunday – and after a long a stressful week we are going to be in search of the perfect present. But instead of stressing out more – get her something that she is going to use! She could always use another picture of you and your sibs in in a frame – but why not style her up, give her the cool hostess gift, get her an appt. at Dry Bar for one of their unforgettable head massages…

…And in the spirit of my mother calling me ‘last minute lilly’ here’s some ideas for you if you happen to have had Mother’s day at top of mind all week but failed to get the perfect gift…

Let me just say to my own MOM- Love you PRBMama! Happy Mother’s Day. I am jealous you are spending it with PRBBrother but I guess I can share – for once. I owe my appreciation for style, luxe travel, entertainment and life exploration to you. Love you and see you in a few weeks – we’ll cheers and drink some wine then.

xoxo,

“your last minute Lilly”

…Oh and p.s. Happy wedding anniversary to you and PRBDad! 28 years and still going strong – now that is something to thank you both for!

Gatsby Hits Theaters and I Dress Up –

Lauren — Fri, 10 May 2013 16:53:24 +0000

So I have had this weird obsession with F. Scott Fitzgerald since I read The Great Gatsby in 9th grade. With the way the world works now and how 1-year-old’s are now Baby Einstein’s, middle schoolers probably have their hand on this seductive thriller by now. In any case, this is a movie I refuse to miss! It is also one of the few that I may get dressed up for since it requires me to wear a gorgeous beaded drop waist dress with feathers in my hair. The roaring 20′s style-inspired getup is a film essential. Thankfully its not not elf ears nor requires me to carry a broom. It’s sheer elegance used as a mask! HOW SINISTER! Arguably, if dressed so fabulously and in the mood to cause little trouble, I should then be seen at a speakeasy chatting with eligible bachelors in Tom Ford-esque tuxes and not in a movie theater recliner but – que-sera, YOLO, whatever.

I guess you could honor what Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll did for the 60′s – Hair Gel, Hard Liquor and killer parties did for the 1920′s. These kids knew how to party. So in honor of one of the most anticipated Hollywood blockbusters that will be kicking off the summer movie season, check out a few things I pulled to channel my inner Daisy Buchanan.

From Left to Right: ( 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 )

…and if you need a taste before hitting tonight’s midnight showing – Here you go!

PRB: ON WISDOM -

Lauren — Thu, 09 May 2013 16:18:58 +0000

So I am channeling my inner Man Repeller today. Leandra writes these amazing and satirically prophetic pieces on some of the most trivial concepts. Evidence of that is today’s post on FOMO/FOMD – utterly awesome!

I was going to post about the Great Gatsby today. (Don’t worry, that will come tomorrow.) Then it dawned on me that to me sharing this with you was a lot more important. That’s what I do – I share. You all have been able to see things about me on here that unless otherwise meeting me or worshiping my robust Twitter feed (God help you!), you wouldn’t know. One thing you DO know is that I never let grass grow under my feet – I am always changing something. From my style, my interests, literally my physical place based on my frequent travel to even the font on this site. But those that are closest to me (and inherently now you since I am sharing this) know that I am choc full of sayings!

I’ve got a one-liner word of cynic wisdom for just about anything – E-mail me, pick a topic, I’ll send one over and you’ll see. I guess you can say that comes from my “prophetic” family. That there is always some greater lesson or takeaway – some thought provoking conclusion to everything we our family does. Yep, literally those great American family toasts that are made at Christmas dinner – there’s a sh!tload of those, I think I counted at least 7 one year.

So today I wanted to share one of those “prophetic moments” with you. My brother e-mailed me last night – a beacon of 19-year-old wisdom that shared his “college-ah-ha” with me. That moment where school no longer became an obligation but a mind-blowing, thought provoking adventure you actually start to look forward to. (**aside – pretty sure mine came when I told my parents I was thinking about Law School -during my freshman year. Let’s just say PRBlonde-MOM literally fell off her chair!) A professor both PRBlonde Brother and I had at SMU was leaving. He taught that class that honestly, no matter how hung over you were you still got up early because you wanted to be there – he was that teacher. But on his last day, simply releasing the class in due time wasn’t enough – he sent all of his students from that semester an e-mail. A personal thank you about what they shared in that room for the last semester he would ever teach. My brother forwarded it to me – a note from a past professor of mine who I would give anything to sit in another class with.

So besides this Word of Wisdom -what does this mean. Well again those that know me know that changes are a foot in the PRBlonde world. I’m about to make a REALLY BIG change very soon and will share it with you all in due time. But as I am on that cusp of a life-changing and arguably scary moment I found solace in these words. I can thank my Spring 2007 college theater professor, that life changing teacher for the comfort these prophetic words gave me. Still 7 years later and you are still taping the most intellectual corners of my brain.

Also thanks to my brother – you’re accompanying note touched me more than you know – Love you little Man! (who let’s be honest isn’t so little anymore!)

Cheers Charlie! I hope your retirement is as bright as your classroom! You will be missed!

- PRB

PR POV: NYCPRGirls – What You Need to Know Before Interning –

Lauren — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:51:03 +0000

Today I am blogging over on NYCPRGirls.com with a few things to keep in mind before you start your summer internship. Thought about keeping a journal or ways to leverage your social networks while still wanting to make a good impression? Check it out!

What You Need to Know Before Interning

Heading into your summer internship? I’ll be posting weekly some tips and tricks for how to do everything from make a good first impression to tricks on how to leave with a great recommendation. Make sure to check back here for more PR POV tips.

You can follow NYCPRGirls on Twitter: @NYCPRGirls and me @LaurenAPruner!

13 in 13 with Corals + Cognacs –

Lauren — Tue, 07 May 2013 05:54:27 +0000

13 in 13 is back! And trust me this one was worth the wait! By definition – I’m a baby in the blog world but if there is one thing LuckyFABB taught me – its blogging is measured in dog years. So if that’s the case than Hallie Wilson of Corals + Cognacs is one seasoned and gorgeous Golden. Hallie has been a blog mentor of mine since I started over a year ago and if there is one girl that balances color block, community management and NYC fabulous best – well, it’s absolutely Hallie of Corals + Cognacs.

1. Tell me about yourself?

I’m originally from Cleveland, lived in Chicago for six years and have recently relocated to New York City. I work full-time in social media, I love addicting myself to Netflix and I have a borderline inappropriate addiction to Zara.

2. What led you to the online blogging webspace?

Where I spend my weekdays from nine-to-five, style takes a back seat to a lot of other things. Since sartorial humor and an expertly crafted color-block can get lost in the boardroom (rightfully so), I decided to create a blog, where I’d hoped my writing, day-to-day styling efforts and arguably unacceptable collection of shoes would be better comprehended.

3. You recently moved to NYC…any reason?

It’s New York! … If not now, when?

4. What about New York has inspired you and corals + cognacs?

The city itself, I’ve just adjusted the ongoing narrative that is my blog – it’s like my readers and I are exploring and acclimating to New York together. It’s fun!

5. Is there any inspiration behind the blogs namesake?

I’m asked this a lot. To be honest, the name just came to me and clicked. When I began writing c+c in 2011, I worked in market research (storytelling with numbers, if you will), which is why I use a plus sign rather than an ampersand. I’m a big color-blocker, too, and a sucker for alliteration in writing. It just fit.

6. Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Everywhere, which is why I always have a pen and paper on me. It can be as random as a Subway advertisement!

7. What makes your blog different?

On corals + cognacs, you’ll find musings on life, style shoes and champagne from a new-to-New York’er. It took time, relationship building and lots of fine-tuning my writing (which I’m still working on). My humor, I think. My readers and I are on the same page: at the end of the day, its fashion; let’s tell a story, escape from reality and have fun with it.

8.What’s your favorite social media network to utilize for your blog?

Twitter – it’s the most efficient way to share information and consume knowledge.

9.What is your recipe for success?

Honestly, just be authentic! Have your own point of view and be passionate about building a community around it – the rest will come. Never pass up an opportunity to connect with like-minded, style-obsessed individuals.

10. How do you connect with other bloggers?

I’ve been lucky to make a great group of blogger friends – I support them on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, you name it. We try to get together for brunches and happy hours, too. In real life is always more fun!

11. Why do you think Fashion blogging is important in the world of style? Are there too many #fblogs out there?

Accessibility and realism – in an instant, you can find out how to wear boyfriend jeans, who’s wearing them and where to buy them. No, there may be too much topic regurgitation, but ultimately, everyone has their own personal flair, opinions and perspectives. It’s up to the blogger to harness those things and make themselves stand out.

12. What are some of your favorites that you follow?

Too many to name (visit my blogroll for a full list), but Bows & Sequins, with a CH and Cheetah is the New Black are a few of my local favorites.

13. What type of style do you capture on your blog?

I listen to what my readers are talking about (via social media listening tools like Sprout, or by using Twitter lists), and I curate my editorial calendars around that. I like to answer the questions that they’re asking themselves.

14. What’s your go to piece you can’t live without?

Any slash all of my many shoes from Zara. Laid-back luxe: Vintage t-shirts paired with statement necklaces! (perfect for a c+c night out!)

15. What elements to you think define your style the most?

Wearing unexpected pairings, mixing prints and layering textures. You can visit the blog to check out more of my personal style.

But of course we couldn’t let Hallie get away without sharing some of her favorites playing into everyone of her healthy Zara and shoe addictions. Check out our “c+c” inspired New Yorker outfit complete with some of Hallie’s signature staples.

Get the Look:

Most recently Hallie found her way to Marshalls where she styled her perfect “Sorbet” look for spring – check it out! (p.s. I think I’m going to Marshalls after seeing this!)

I can’t thank Hallie of c+c enough! It was such a pleasure having one of MY mentors on the blog and awesome to work and connect with her. Hopefully I’ll bump into this stylista on the streets of NYC someday. Thanks Hallie!

Ten Things You Need To Know about The Bachelorette –

Lauren — Mon, 06 May 2013 05:39:40 +0000

We’re only a few weeks away and the promos are starting to role. On May 27^th The Bachelorette is back! … and let’s be honest girls – the only reason we’re watching this season, 25 hunky bachelors are taking over the mansion in hopes to win over our Bachelorette, Desiree Hartsock’s heart.

Fresh off her season with hunky turned dancing spunky Bachelor Sean Lowe; Desiree made a tearful exit exclaiming that Sean had ‘made a mistake.’ But in an interview Des said she had “time to heal” and she knew now that he and she made the right choice. But before we let her have all the fun, what do we really know about our Bachelorette besides her down home roots and newly grown out bangs? Well here’s 10 things you should hear before re-committing to your TV on Monday nights…

1. Her Brother is a Missionary – Contrary to what we saw on last season, it seems that Des’ aggressive brother just didn’t understand how you could fall in love, on reality TV, forever. (but then again – do any of us?) Nonetheless he’s a staunch man of the word looking to persue ministry.

2. She designs wedding dresses in her spare time – Though she may be styling and selling bridal dreams in an LA bridal salon, you can find her doodling from time to time. I am sure we will see an original design if she finds her prince charming at the end of her ABC primetime journey.

3. She’s not that close with her family – Even though her parents have been married for over 35 years and may be a testament to happily ever after – this Bachelorette left home at 18 and never looked back.

4. She attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising – Clearly this girl has the design bug! Located in Los Angeles (FIDM) Desiree learned the skills that she hopes will bring those sketch pad dresses to life. She one day hopes to become a wedding gown designer with her own shop.

5. She felt like she was “taken for granted in past relationships” – With a rocky past and a tearful Bachelor goodbye – Des is putting her foot down. It’s time for a “partnership.” I doubt we will see this one waiting on her man hand and foot. 6. She likes those “tall dark and handsome” types – With a track record of tall, dark, handsome men in her past (Sean – clearly the anomaly) keep an eye out for the manly stunners on this season. She’s bound to find one of the more suave men in the room.

7. She’s the ultimate girl next door – A fan of fun in the sun, bridal designs, and a nice thirsty Thursday happy hour she seems like just the friend that everyone wants to have.

8. She lived part of her childhood in a tent – Life wasn’t always easy for our down-to-earth Bachelorette. While confiding in Sean on screen last season Des confirmed that growing up wasn’t always easy and her family moved around a lot, sometimes they even lived in a tent when life was at its worst. But she will say, “I’m the strongest for it and have so much respect for my parents and family.”

9. She’s a God fearing woman – This woman loves the man upstairs. Her former blog was a gateway into her spiritual journey and you will often find her tweeting scripture to share a daily devotional with her followers. @DesHartsock

10. She’s a Spring Chick – Born April 8, 1986 this 27-year-old “Aries” is described by her astrology sign as loyal, driven and ambitious. All the makings of a Katie Holmes (looks) meets Vera Wang (drive) Bachelorette. A few of the other astrological traits would sure make for good TV though – fiery, opinionated and physical!*

But if you haven’t seen it yet, check out the a few promos courtesy of our friends at ABC and Next Entertainment.

Remember to check back here every Monday leading up to the May 27^th premiere for some Bachelorette updates and then I’ll be back recapping the season! Chris Harrison – we will be reunited soon enough my dear rosemaster. It’s been way too long!

*correction made