For proof that birds of a feather flock together, look no further than the resort community of Sea Island, GA, where a gaggle of eight stylish social media stars recently gathered for a weekend retreat. While many of these ‘birds’ knew one another from the blog and Insta world, they had never met in-person. “The purpose of the trip,” says Lauren Lefevre of Edit by Lauren, who came in from Atlanta, “was to build relationships with one another, explore Sea Island, and shoot holiday collaborations with some of our favorite brands.”
We love how they brought our Draper James Holiday collection to life in photos taken at the Sea Island Beach Club. Scroll through the pics below and head to their blogs and Instas for more images. You can also head to Lauren’s blog (or scroll all the way down to the bottom of this post) for the chance to win one of two $250 Draper James gift cards.
Bloggers, from left: Laura Beverlin of Styled Adventures, Lauren Steele of LC Steele, Lauren Lefevre of Edit by Lauren, Jenna Colgrove of Visions of Vogue, Bailey Schwartz of Here’s the Skinny, Julianna Lynch of Blush & Camo, Bethany Dyer of Kiss Me Darling, and Amy Loochtan of Coffee Beans & Bobby Pins. All photos by Amanda Pulley.
“The highlight of the trip was definitely girl time,” says Lauren Lefevre, who became fast friends with the other seven bloggers on the trip. “The resort was one of the most beautiful places we all had ever been; the grounds are gorgeous and so green; and the rooms are huge and luxurious. We loved learning the history of the island and resort and taking an evening boat cruise—we saw dolphins!”
“As with many jobs, success in blogging has a lot to do with networking and your relationships with other bloggers,” says Bailey Schwartz of Here’s the Skinny, who took the lead in coordinating the Sea Island trip. “It’s often difficult to connect with one another as there aren’t traditional networking events, so we took initiative to plan a trip that would allow us to get to know each other as well as collaborate with one another. We’ve always engaged with via our blogs, and what better way to grow your blogging inspiration than a weekend away with your favorite bloggers—and new friends!”
Bethany Dyer of Kiss Me Darling is wearing our Georgia Plaid Cape: “I just love this plaid print and that it hides my hot chocolate belly!” @kissmedarlingxo
Amy Loochtan of Coffee Beans & Bobby Pins is wearing our Cable Cardigan: “I love anything cozy and this Draper James cardigan is AHHmazing! It’s soft, warm, and a staple for this time of year. The best part is that the cinched waist creates that hourglass silhouette that can easily be dressed up or down.” @amy_cbandbp
Lauren Steele of LC Steele is wearing our Scottie Instarsia Sweater: “Holidays are all about family and friends. My dog, Nilla, is definitely a best friend! This festive sweater reminded me of her. I paired it with dark skinny jeans and black suede boots to keep the look casual. This would be the perfect relaxed holiday look from now until Christmas day!” @lc_steele
Lauren Lefevre of Edit by Lauren is wearing our Mary Lou Plaid Sweater: “This is literally the perfect holiday plaid. I love how the sweater can be dressed up or down. I love it with a mini skirt, and with white jeans as well as blue jeans. It’s also cute layered under a jacket or vest. It will be a go-to in my holiday wardrobe this season!” @laurenlefevre
Julianna Lynch of Blush & Camo is wearing our Winston Shift Dress and Plaid Top Handle Bag: “With its classic silhouette, feminine lace, and bow detail, this dress is going to be a hit at every holiday party!” @julianna_claire
Laura Beverlin of Styled Adventures is wearing our Francine Fairisle Sweater and Plaid Top Handle Bag: “Both pieces are classics and perfect for wearing throughout the holiday season. I paired them with faux leather leggings and over-the-knee boots for a cozy-chic look. @laurabeverlin
Bailey Schwartz of Here’s the Skinny is wearing our Fa La La Sweatshirt and Plaid Top Handle Bag: “This look is cozy and festive with a side of Southern hospitality—exactly how I like my holidays to feel.” See Bailey’s round-up of the Sea Island weekend here. @baileyschwartz
Jenna Colgrove of Visions of Vogue is wearing our Amaryllis Floral Skirt and Embroidered Preston Top. “This time of year is all about fun. With its bold floral print, this skirt is nothing short of that! As a combo paired with this sparkly embellished collar, it could easily be worn to Christmas dinner or the office holiday party.” @jennacolgrove
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