Hi Everyone! My name is Tayler, and I am so excited to be chatting with Emily Ley! Originally from Nebraska, I graduated last year, spent the summer in the great state of Texas, and am now living on the east coast in Boston! During my day, I work in the technology space doing branding, PR, and social media. Both in my job and outside of work, I love finding ways to connect with people. I recently took this passion for connecting others, and paired it with my love for writing on my blog. (It’s still a bit new, so feedback and comments are welcome!). Other than that, you can find me traveling to see my boyfriend, and living by my phrase “communication, coffee, and cookies” (which I take quite seriously). Nice to meet you!
How do you take care of yourself so that you’re physically and mentally prepared to be your best self for others?
I’ve found it can be hard to be motivated to do much after a work day, but I’ve found it’s a really important time! If I can find at least one way to take care of myself in the evenings, I’ve found it makes a big difference. Writing a letter, going for a run, blogging, and chatting on the phone with loved ones are all great for that.
I believe taking time to read is also a great way to take care of yourself, while learning as well. Personally, I love psychology, and books pertaining to how you can better connect with others. I’m currently reading Rising Strong by Brene Brown, and I would highly recommend it.
What’s your favorite beauty secret?
I don’t think I’ve ever been more loyal to a beauty product than I have been with Essie nail polish. I especially love any of their lavender colors, like Go Ginza. Two layers of polish paired with their gel clear coat has you looking polished for at least a week! (pun intended.)
What’s your favorite go-to outfit for a quick polished look?
I’m so glad it’s finally summer so I can transition out of my turtle necks and skinny jeans, and on to my summer dresses. You can almost always find me in a dress with flats, sandals, or wedges. It’s quick and keeps you cool, and works for anything from the office, to exploring around town on a Saturday.
What’s your favorite quick-prep dinner for your family?
Gosh, this one can be a little tricky when it’s just me, especially when there is a great pizza shop right by my house. I recently got the book Clean Slate, and have really liked some of their recipes! I’ve tried everything from a breakfast frittata for dinner, to frozen bananas with cocoa powder for a sweet after meal treat.
Tell us your favorite Instagram account to follow and why.
I think my favorite Instagram account has to be @inagarten. I am a big Barefoot Contessa fan, and even got the chance to hear her speak on tour! She has the best comments, and I absolutely adore Ina and Jeffrey together. Her peony arrangements and hashtags are an added bonus.
What tradition or routine is important to you?
When work landed my boyfriend and me in different cities after graduation, I’ve found some of the little things we do together mean so much more. One tradition we’ve had is going to Chick-Fil-A on Friday nights when I visit. We are really big fans! Those times sitting and chatting together over two number ones with cookies n’ cream milk shakes are some of my very favorites.
What’s in your purse?
Since living in Boston and having my purse hold all of my necessities for the day, I am thankful for my sizable Transport Tote! (Even though all of that space leaves room for over-packing sometimes.) I keep a few different lipstick options in my bag, along with a necklace and earrings! I am always sure to grab a book for the train ride to and from work, and I can’t wait to start including my Emily Ley planner come August!
Where do you find your inspiration, and what’s your best tip for forging your own path in a male dominated industry?
I have found that I am very lucky that I get to work as a marketer in the technology industry, as I get to be a storyteller. I get to interact with countless individuals, both men and women alike, who are doing inspiring work, both inside my company, and with new contacts outside of our office! These connections, especially with incredible women (like the team at Emily Ley), and the opportunity to share their stories are what keep me inspired in and outside of my job.
My biggest tip would be to be curious, both with ideas and about the people around you. Asking someone you admire, inside your company or outside, to connect for coffee can quickly turn into a strong contact, or even a mentor. Never underestimate the power of an idea, or a quick, “Hello, I really admire your work, would you be open to meeting for coffee?”
We know you’re busy. How do you balance all of your work responsibilities with your home and personal life? Any tips for our readers?
Writing things down is what works best for me. If I have a to-do list, even if it’s including something fun like writing a blog post, it’s so much easier to keep moving in the direction I want to go! If I know I have a lot going on, or a lot of items I want to accomplish, I grab my coffee, and muster up some motivation while thinking through ideas and must-do items, and what order it needs to be done in! Seeing all of these exciting items on a page, both work and personal, gets me inspired to work through it.
What’s your favorite app for helping you do life?
Certain mornings, (or afternoon or evenings) call for some coffee. The Starbucks App helps me to get through my day with a little pick me up. You can even send little gift cards with a note through the app, which is a great way to send someone you care about some love!
Follow along with Tayler:
Website: thesocialchou.blogspot.com
Instagram: @Tayler_Hough
Twitter: @TaylerHough
