Well hello there! It’s been fairly quiet around these parts lately but I’m finally able to share an update on why that is (along with a new outfit!). I know it’s an odd time of year to drop off the radar but I can promise you that it’s only temporary. I’ve been in transition mode over the last little while, preparing for a big change coming in the new year and I’m finally ready to spill the beans! So with that being said here’s what’s in store for today’s post:
- The big news! If you haven’t already guessed and no, I’m not pregnant!
- What to expect for the remainder of 2017.
- A fun twist for 2018.
- A note to you!
THE BIG NEWS
As some of you may know, Style Bee has been my side gig for the last 4 years. I haven’t mentioned my day job much because it’s not related to what I do here but as I approach the new year I felt this was a good opportunity to do so. My ‘real job’ for the last 8 years has been in Pharmaceutical Advertising running a boutique branding and advertising firm with my family. My Dad has been a lifelong Creative Director (and artistic genius) and my Mum (who’s also a designer at heart) has been managing the books and keeping the wheels turning while I’ve handled all the art direction and production in between. We’ve each worn lots of hats throughout our time running the business and managing clients but we’ve also had a great crew of freelance writers, graphic designers and partners on call to help.
When my parents decided they were ready to move towards retiring and onto other creative endeavours outside of the pharma business I was, of course, very happy for them. My Mum and Dad are extremely hard-working, talented, selfless and have truly earned a change of pace and the opportunity to pursue more of what they love to do. I cannot wait to see what they create and all the projects they get up to!
While I was delighted about this plan, at the same time it meant I needed to decide what I was going to do as well. Was I going to take over the family business or was I going to pursue my own path and go all-in on Style Bee my personal passion project? Well, I think you can guess the answer!
So it is with elation that I announce, as of 2018, I will be officially focusing on Style Bee full-time! YAY!
I’m beyond excited about forging ahead on this path and feel like the stars have aligned to make it possible. Of course, at the same time it’s bittersweet because I won’t be working so closely with my Dad on a daily basis. We have our own studios but have been in nearly constant contact for a loooong time. That said, I know we’ll still have lots of creative opportunities to work together and this new phase will be great for both my parents. I’m so excited for them and I’m beyond grateful that we’ve had the opportunity to work together for so long. I have honestly learned from the best.
They’ve been incredibly supportive about my decision and are, as always, Style Bee’s biggest fans. I’m feeling all the feels these days but above all I’m feeling extremely fortunate to be able to pursue my dreams.
WHAT TO EXPECT FOR THE REST OF 2017
Before I pop champagne and dance a deliriously happy jig about all that is to come I’ve still got a lot to do before I can dive into Style Bee full-time. We’re currently wrapping up years of client work, which involves a lot of file management, project hand offs and loose end tying, hence the quiet as of late. This just means things will remain a bit slower around here until the new year. That said, there are still some great posts in the queue for December!
A FUN TWIST FOR 2018
As if a major career move wasn’t enough, Dave and I have been given an opportunity to spend some time out in Vancouver B.C. so of course we’re heading out there! We’ll be packing our bags (and Dobby’s of course!) and making our way out to the west coast for a few months beginning in February. Dave will be working on a renovation project while I sink my teeth into full-time blog life. It’s sure to be quite an adventure and I can’t wait to share it all on here. I’m also excited to experience my first west coast Spring (hello cherry blossoms!) and to try out a proper capsule closet while we’re at it. I’ll share more on all that as the plans take shape!
Of course, in addition to a cross-country trip I’ve got oodles (yes I said oodles!) of ideas for what I’d like to share on here, including how I managed to reach the ‘quit your day job’ point. If there is anything in particular you’re dying to see a post about please let me know. I’m all ears!
A NOTE TO YOU, YES YOU!
Now I know every blogger that ends up going full-time inevitably says, ‘It wouldn’t have been possible without you guys!’ but it really is 100% true. So thank you, so much, for being here, whether it’s your first visit (good timing!) or your 100th (can I buy you a coffee?). I’m just honoured that anyone is interested in what I’m putting out into the world.
I really believe that personal style has the power to make a positive difference in both individual and global ways. I’m approaching the new year with great enthusiasm but also with careful consideration about where I want this space to go, how I want Style Bee to evolve and how I can make that happen organically and authentically without it turning into a barrage of sponsorships and non-stop social media promotion. The good news is that I believe it’s entirely doable!
Thank you for joining me on this wacky and wonderful responsible style (don’t say journey, never say journey) adventure. I’m so thrilled to be able to say, we’re just getting started!
THANKS FOR READING FRIENDS!
WISHING YOU ALL AN ESPECIALLY WONDERFUL WEEKEND!
SHOP THIS LOOK
COAT | Marvin Browne | Sold Out | £120 | Made in London UK | Wearing Size S |
Similar Camel Coat Options:Cocoon Coat by EVERLANE $225 USD (Made responsibly in China) | Skinny Lapel Coat by SMYTHE $895 USD (Made in Canada) | Essential Coat by THEORY $855 USD (Imported) | Carver Coat by A.P.C. $575 USD (Imported) | College Coat by CHARLES GRAY LONDON $335 CAD (Made in UK) | Walking Coat by FLEURETTE $900 CAD (Made in USA)
STRIPED TOP | Emerson Frye | Sold Out | $118 USD | Made in USA | Wearing Size S |
Similar Striped Top Options:Boxy Tee and Heavyweight Tee by EVERLANE both $45 USD (Made responsibly in Vietnam) | Francoise Top by AMOUR VERT (Made in USA) $118 CAD | Patrice Striped Top by AMOUR VERT (Made in USA) $105 CAD
BOSS BOOTS | c/o EVERLANE | $225 USD | Made in Italy | Runs TTS
GREY BEANIE | EVERLANE | Sold Out | Similar in Wool-Cashmere $25 USD | Made in China
FLARES | Old by JBRAND | Made in USA | Similar option: SLIM FLARE by PAIGE $255 CAD (Made in USA)
SPLIT RING | c/o CLAUS | $90 USD | Made in USA
CARAMEL TOTE | CUYANA | $175 USD | Made in USA
Photography by Jacklyn Barber.
This post was not sponsored but contains affiliate links. When you shop via the links above I may make a small commission from a sale. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Style Bee! As always all opinions are my own.
I’m a little late to the party, but I wanted to say CONGRATS as well! It sounds like a dream come true–being able to write and do something artistic (I consider it artistic anyway). I love your vision of shopping small and local and ethically–I’m trying to do that as well–and it’s inspiring that you’re able to take this on full time. Anyway, BEST OF LUCK AND TIDINGS and big smiles reading this post. Ophelia at https://sites.google.com/view/americancloset/home
Yay congrats! I’ve been a long time reader and I really respect how this blog has developed & grown. I am a designer/illustrator with an interest in becoming freelance and running my own business, and would be SO thrilled to read more on how you’ve gotten to this point. I would also love to hear tips about juggling a day job alongside pursuing a passion project.
Can’t wait to see whats ahead!
I am so excited for you friend! I can’t wait to see what good stuff you cook up for Style Bee in this new chapter!
Congratulations, Lee! So exciting to hear!
Welcome to Vancouver (in advance). You’re going to love it here!
Congratulations! I’m so excited to see you begin a new adventure. I’m looking forward to hearing about work-life balance on the road, if you decide to share!
Wauw, great news!
Congratulations with this big change in your life 🙂
It must have been very nice working so close with your parents.
Like a lot of others I would like to see more life style content and also things about how to mix clothing (cheaper with more expensive pieces), some ideas about how to look great with a minimal outfit.
But I will still come back anyway because you inspire me a lot.
So I wish you a great 2018 with lots of new things to come!
Woohoo! Huge congrats and celebration, Lee! And welcome to BC (soon, for a while)!
This is such exciting news Lee! Your blog is so amazing already, I can only imagine what you’ll achieve when you do it full time.
I had no idea you were in the pharma industry. I also work in pharma in Mississauga, I’m sure you had clients from our area 🙂
So happy for you and Dave for being able to experience life in Vancouver for a bit. Do you think it’s entirely possible that you guys will love it so much there and end up staying?
Lee,
Congratulations to you and your parents. I’m sure this decision wasn’t made lightly, but it sounds like a great transition for all of you.
I’m sure I’ve mentioned it before but I’ll say it again, your blog was/is the single most effective tool in defining my personal style and shopping responsibly for clothing. I look forward to continued years of readership and learning curves.
I’d love to see more lifestyle content and posts on things like wardrobe maintenance and nutrition and healthcare. If you find great, responsibly made home goods, household cleaners, etc. I’d love to hear about them too. Your Instagram crowd sourcing about a cure for acne was life changing and it would be wonderful to see more of that.
Best wishes for continued success! XO
Congratulations! Can I ask about your coat, and one of the others listed? I am astonished that you can buy a full-length winter coat made in London (or anywhere in the UK) for £120, or $225. I live in London, so I know what the rent’s like, and I also sew and have made a winter coat myself, so I know how much work is involved and have an idea about fabric costs etc. Are these coats really fully manufactured in Britain, or are they maybe just finished here or something? I can’t find Charles Gray anywhere except Nordstrom, and the Marvin Browne website is very short on info. Assuming they’re made with decent materials, the retail prices just don’t make sense! If you know any more, I’d be very interested to hear some details about these companies!
This sounds so exciting! All the best with your plans 🙂
– X Marloes
I’d love for you to buy me coffee 🙂 Your universe is so put together and inspiring!
Congrats on your move, and I cannot wait to see what unique path you take to monetize even more (which I guess you’ll need to)
SO exciting – congratulations, Lee! So proud of you!! And congrats to the folks as well – huge achievements across the board in the Vosburgh clan! Wishing you, Dave and Dobby an adventurous jaunt out west 🙂
Congrats, Lee, that’s amazing!!! It’s been so fun to follow along your adventures the past nearly two years. Can’t wait to see what else you have up your sleeve!
Congratulations Lee! I enjoy reading your blog and I am looking forward to more. Yeah! Vancouver is a beautiful city. But then so is Guelph. I love your style and I find the way you put together outfits very inspiring.
So excited for you, Lee! Been reading along for a few years and think this is a well deserved step forward. Looking forward to seeing what you get up to this coming year!!
Congratulations!!
Congratulations, Lee! What an exciting time for you and so well-deserved.
I’m a long-time reader and have long admired your willingness to discuss the nitty gritty aspects of dressing for a variety of seasons (I’m from Minnesota and especially have appreciated your cold weather posts). For content next year, I’ll echo what someone else said and say that I’d love more real, everyday outfit posts, whether it’s on here or Instagram. I’d also be curious to learn more about how you balance mindful consumption with our society’s constant obsession with “new things”. It’s difficult to find the boundaries between caring about your style and negatively spending too much time on it (if I still spend hours online perusing Garmentory or researching responsible brands when I don’t actually need anything, am I really practicing thoughtful consumption? etc.) and I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Basically, please continue the cerebral style posts! 🙂
Thanks for all of your work on this site, and wishing you a stellar holiday season!
Amazing. Congrats, Lee! So happy to hear this news.
That’s so exciting! Congrats. I’d love, love, love to see some wedding posts!
Thanks Christine! You bet! Wedding posts to come as soon as my Thank You cards are sent haha! xo
YES! Been reading your blog for years and am so excited that you’re taking the leap! Congrats to you and to your parents on what sounds like a well-deserved retirement!
Thanks so much for the long-time readership and support Mary! That really means so much. Wishing you a wonderful weekend! xo
Congratulations! I’ve really enjoyed reading your blog over the last year or so. I had an extended hospital stay during my pregnancy and reading your posts were one thing I really looked forward to while I was in there. Now I try to read while I’m wrangling my baby and enjoy it just as much. 🙂
Annie thank you so much for letting me know that! I’m so honoured that my blog is still on your radar even with a wee babe! I’m glad you’re doing well and hope you have a fabulous first holiday season with the little one. All the best lovely! xo
Congratulations!! What an exciting new chapter.
And as a Vancouverite, I say welcome, welcome welcome! Would be very cool to meet up in person once you’re here (maybe a coffee meet-up/welcome to the city? I’m guessing other folks here would be into that!) Reach out anytime!
Thank you so very much Amanda! I would love that 🙂 Let’s keep in touch. xo
Also a Vancourite and a long-time reader! Would love a Vancouver meet and great! It’s been really wonderful following you and seeing your style progress over the years- I’m curious if your style will change at all while you’re out here as well! Your posts and PDFs have definitely helped me in my journey and changed the way I think about consumerism.
Congratulations on the big change and all the best!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars!
Yay for You!
Yay for Your Parents!
Yay for Us!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Patricia! Thanks for your continued support my friend. Your comments always brighten my day! Have a great weekend. xo
Congratulations! I think it’s so sweet you worked with your family for 8 years! What a great experience! Looking forward to having more regular posts from you! 🙂
Thank you Lexie! It really was so great to be able to work with the fam for so long. I feel very fortunate! Have a great weekend. xo
Congratulations! So excited for you. Since you will be spending time in Vancouver, I would so love to see a post on how you plan to dress for our wet and muddy climate, especially when it comes to footwear. Thanks!
Thanks Rebecca! Yes! I’ll definitely be covering some west coast style. Currently looking to up my wet weather game a bit 🙂 xo
Congratulations! And good luck on the next stage of your blogging adventure. I look forward to following it!
Also, the SO and I visited Vancouver last spring and it was all I could do to keep him from moving us there permanently (especially since I kind of wanted to also!).
Thanks very much Alice! Oh that’s great! I know, if we didn’t love Ontario so much we would definitely be aiming for a more permanent western adventure but who knows! Glad you enjoyed your visit. Have a great weekend. xo
Hey Lee, Dad here! Been a great run huh. Loved every minute of working together, really a dream come true and that’s what I tell my friends and clients. No lie, I’ll miss the collaboration but there are lots of pursuits in the future that I’ll need your input on. And to all your followers who love clean design and great writing…thanks for supporting my daughter! She works extremely hard on every blog post and your appreciation and input mean the world to her. Here’s to having a ton o’ fun and making new friends in all your adventures.
Love you to the moon and back kiddo!
Aw geez! Thanks Dad 😛 Lots of exciting things to come! Love you lots and see ya soon! xo
Congrats Lee!
That sounds like an exiting adventure for you, and your parents!
I went to Vancouver many years ago and it was stunning! Wishing you, Dave and Dobby a wonderful experience living there!
Things I’d like to see more of on the blog: repeating clothes and outfits, less new and less collaborations and more of how to wear something multiple ways, closet missions, minimal style tips, capsule (like maybe having a core capsule), and lifestyle content.
Of course when you go on trips that’s always fun to see too!
Looking forward to what’s comimg on here in 2018, and wishing you the happiest holiday season as you say goodbye to a big chapter in your life!
Xo!
Thank you so much Jodie! Your support has meant so much over the years and I really appreciate all the feedback. Lots of good stuff coming up in the new year! Wishing you and your boys a wonderful holiday season too! Catch you on insta lovely lady. xo
I would second some lifestyle stuff. I love the Etsy stuff from your gifting post as well and designer interviews. I make a lot of my own stuff myself and I love seeing what and how others make and do things.
Thanks for the vote on lifestyle and maker posts, that’s great! Enjoy your weekend and any projects you’ve got on the go Sarah. xo
Such great news! I love your blog and look forward to seeing your adventures in Vancouver. My husband & I love to vacation in Canada – 7 trips including 2 to Vancouver Island and most recently Quebec.
Thanks Melissa! Oh that’s awesome! Quebec is beautiful, I hope to get back to Montreal soon. Hope you come back again 🙂 Have a great weekend. xo
Lee,
YAY!!!?
I’m a long time reader, since nearly the beginning and I’m so excited that you’re going full time!!! I check your blog everyday, just to be sure. 🙂
One thing I’d love to see more of, is your everyday outfits, even, no ESPECIALLY, boring repeats. Andrea of seasons and salt has been doing a weekly outfit roundup in addition to outfit posts and I love seeing her style the same pieces in different ways. I’m also obsessed with packing and “in my bag” posts, so those are always welcome!!
So
Kat
Kat! You’re the best! Thanks so much for being such a positive support for all this time. It really means so much to me 🙂 Thanks for the suggestions and feedback. Those all sound like great ideas and I totally hear you on packing and in my bag posts haha. Love those too! Have a great weekend love. xo
Congratulations!! This is such exciting news 🙂 Reading your blog over the past year or so has had a significant impact on how I approach clothes and style. I’ve changed how I buy clothes now, and from what brands, and it has been such a positive change, so thank you 🙂 You are so thoughtful in your approach, and your writing, and I often find myself revisiting your older posts for ideas and suggestions. I’m really looking forward to this being your full time gig. Congratulations again, and good luck with it all!
Thank you Colleen! That is really wonderful to hear. So glad my blog has been helpful for you! Really appreciate the support. Have a great weekend! xo
Lee!! This is amazing! I’m so happy and excited for you and I can’t wait to see where these new changes take you!
Thank you so much for the kind words Kristin! Happy Friday babe! Xo
Congratulations! I’m super excited for you and I can’t wait to see more of what is up for the New Year. Also, thanks for introducing me to Everlane–one of my new favorite brands!
Thanks very much Elizabeth! My pleasure! Everlane is a personal favourite for sure. Have a great weekend. Xo
Warmest congratulations to you and your new adventure! I have so enjoyed your aesthetic, perspective, and personality in your posts. I trust that great and lovely things are coming. I have especially appreciated your posts talking about your closet and perspective on dressing yourself. Those sort of conversations are so crucial!
Again, congrats, and I hope you get a pleasant break!
Thanks so much for the kind words and feedback Molly! I couldn’t agree more about those conversations being so important! Looking forward to getting those going more in 2018. Have a great weekend xo
Woohooo!!! Congratulations Lee! ???
Thanks so much Julie! And thanks for the fabulous cut as always! Got two compliments already! haha xo
Congratulations! I’m excited to see what the future holds for Style Bee 🙂
Thanks so much Justina! xo
Congratulations Lee! So excited for you and this new chapter of your life ♥
Thank you Lucy! Have a great weekend! xo
Woooooot!!!! style bee Style Bee STYLE BEE *chanting* So happy for you (and all of us!). ??❤️
AH! Court, you’re the BEST! Thanks for all the support over the years. LOVE YOU!! xox
Also, WTF Part 1 of the Bachelor Finale? I was ready to KNOW. At least that means we get to view together next week 🙂
Can I suggest—more than just fashion, possibly some lifestyle blogs? And some travel tips (out west is a great place to start. I’m a fellow Canadian (Hamilton) and just did both the west and east coasts this past summer). ?
You sure can! Actually you’ve read my mind because I’m dying to share more lifestyle posts. Travel tips are on the list too, thanks for the suggestions. So cool that you got to hit up both coasts! We are very excited about the West but the East is calling too 🙂 Did you have a preference? I’d love to hear. xo
Congratulations! I’ve been a follower for years and am thrilled to hear you’re taking your talents full-time. Can’t wait to see what you have in store!
Thank you so much Kelsey, I really appreciate it! Keep up the great work on your blog! Just took a peek at your home and kitchen, they look INCREDIBLE! Will be so nice to enjoy the holidays in your new space. xo
I think this is incredible news! I’m a fairly new reader and I have to tell you I find your blog so well-designed and well-written. I just love it. Your Responsible Style is really inspiring and I love that you feature so many Canadian brands. In fact I just ordered something from Ovate based on your recommendation, I had never heard of that brand before.
I also live in Guelph (downtown). Love it here but I think your winter/early spring trip to Vancouver will be so good, lovely change of scene!
Can’t wait to see what you do and good luck wrapping up your day job. xx
Thanks for the kind words and great feedback Dani! Ovate is such a beautiful line. I’m glad I could point you in their direction. So great that you live in Guelph too! Love our little city and we’ll definitely miss it while we’re gone. Won’t miss the freezing February and relentless March cold so much but who knows what we’ll get out west. Have a great weekend! xo
Congratulations, Lee! I love your blog and am excited to see and read more. I’ve learned a lot from you and Caroline at Unfancy. Wishing you a great 2018???
Thanks so much Denise! I’m so happy to hear that and wish you all the best for the new year too! xo
Lee, I’m very excited for you and thrilled that you will be blogging fulltime. I used to only read another style blogger, but since she’s gone, I’m very glad to have found your blog and I’m looking forward to lots of inspiration in 2018. I’m wishing you the best of luck in your new endeavor.
Thanks so much Carol! I really appreciate the support and look forward to sharing lots of life and style inspo in 2018 🙂 All the best to you too! xo
Yay! So happy for you! And I’m so thrilled you are continuing your blog. I absolutely love your style and thoughts. (So uncluttered and classy) .I am looking forward to what you have for us in the new year. Best to you and Dave with all your up and coming changes. Take care.
Thanks so much for the kind words and support Susan! Have a lovely weekend and all the best for the holidays! xo
You go girl! In all directions….can’t wait to share your journey!-Laurel
https://littleblackdomicile.com
Thanks so much Laurel! Your support means a lot! xo
Congratulations! I am so happy that you can pursue your passion project full time. Love the site, and just yesterday went back to your cold weather post for inspiration.
As far as what I would like to know about how to make it a full time thing, would be how to gain the right client base for you and when do you know it’s the right time? My spot is a little different, as I’ve been toying around with the idea of a baking business, starting on the side and possibly making it full time bakery some day. So anything you could share that isn’t exactly blog based would be incredible too.
Enjoy Vancouver and I can’t wait to see what is in store for your new (don’t say journey) adventure! Best of wishes and happy holidays.
Thanks love! I really appreciate the positive feedback 🙂 Thanks for the interest in building a client base/finding the right time. I’ve been asked that a lot so I’ll add that to the list of more ‘business’ focused posts for next year. Running a bakery looks like a lot of work but a ton of fun too! Such an exciting goal to have! All the best for the holidays too! xo
How exciting! By the way, your haircut is adorable and perfect for you!
Thanks so much Carrie! Xo