Q&A with student blogger Wesley Shaw

Feb 25, 2016 | Fashion, Lifestyle | 3 comments

By Paige Burleson

Blogger and UA student Wesley Shaw is the epitome of class and all things girl boss in her black outfit with gold accents and pop of pale pink. From her place in a dark green chair, blended coffee in hand, we chatted about New York City, Instagram, fashion, internships and the one-year anniversary of her blog, Have a Wesley Day.

Alice: Tell us about the inspiration starting your blog.

WS: It was something that I had been thinking about for a long time. I started it around the time I applied for my internship with Seventeen. I had a burst of creative energy, and that’s how I knew it was the right time to make it happen. My blog theme is completely based on my personality, which is a little bit all over the place. I like to keep things fun and to reach out to my readers.

Alice: Who are your blogger inspirations?

WS: Christine Andrew’s Hello Fashion, Lauren Conrad, Chiara Ferragni’s The Blonde Salad, and Julia Engel’s Gal Meets Glam.

Alice: What has been your favorite blog post on your site?

WS: “How to Get Your Dream Internship.” The words just spilled out of me on that one.

Alice: Why did you want be a photo intern at Seventeen?

WS: Seventeen was more my style than other magazines, and it was something I grew up reading. It really just aligned perfectly with my personality.

Alice: How did you prepare for the interview process?

WS: I over prepared. I met with different professors from the University, went to the Career Center, and made flashcards to memorize the entire masthead. When I found out I got the internship, my eyes welled up with tears because I was so ecstatic and had worked so hard. It just felt right. I knew if I worked hard enough, it would happen.

Alice: What was your most memorable moment of being a photo intern for Seventeen?

WS: My first photo shoot. It was at Juilliard, the ballet school. We got to photograph this beautiful ballerina, Mimi Staker. I was running back and forth. It was crazy, but the adrenaline was so exciting for me because I finally got to see something in action and be an asset to the team.

Alice: What are some of your favorite places in NYC?

WS: The Met. I spent so much time there so it’s the place I miss the most. I love studying art history so it was exciting to see it all in person. Sarabeth’s. I got this incredible mac and cheese with my boyfriend, Drew, when he visited. Ladurée. Expensive, but so cute and good.

Alice: What essentials do you always carry when you travel?

WS: iPad, comfy shoes or sneakers, headphones and a good book.

Alice: Would you choose to be behind or in front of the camera?

WS: I have to say both, but photography was my first love. I don’t think I would have discovered my love for blogging without photography. My Canon 60D is my baby.

Alice: Why do you think fashion and style is important to our generation and to you?

WS: I think it helps you find your identity. It has helped create my own personality and personal brand by experimenting.

Alice: What is your advice to other aspiring bloggers, interns, girl bosses?

WS: Be confident in everything you do, and don’t go halfway on anything. If you are passionate about something, don’t let anything stop you.