A Very Special One-Year Blogiversary!

A year ago today, Beautifully Invisible was born.

A year ago today, a journey began.

A year ago today, I had absolutely no idea how this little blog would change my life.

I’m not going to take this time to recap my favorite posts.

I’m not going talk about the blog’s evolution in regards to design and content.

I’m not going to talk about my future plans.  I have them, yes, but this post isn’t the time nor the place.

This post is about you and it is dedicated to each of you.

To my silent, dedicated readers. I know you are there and I thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts, day in and day out.  What can I do to make you say “hello?”

To those that are simply passing through on their way to another destination. Thank you for stopping by and taking a look around!  I hope to see you again someday.

To my friends. I don’t mean my “real-life” friends (though hopefully you’ll be among them one day!).  I mean my most regular readers.  Those that interact.  Chat. Tweet. Comment. Email. Share. Love.  Those that made me feel like I am a part of something bigger than just “me.”

You are the reason I keep coming back to this.

You are the reason I fell in love with blogging.

To my new-found family. Somewhere along the way, certain people became family.  They are not simply readers. They are not simply friends.  They are so much more.

They inspire me daily with their kindness, courageousness and unyielding spirit.

They don’t believe in “settling” and don’t believe something can’t be done.  Instead, they make their own path and go after their dreams.

They are more caring, generous and kind than some of my “real” family members.

They are always honest and I trust them unconditionally.

They are loved.

They are Anika, Casee Marie, Kristy Eléna and Vahni. I know a few of you may be surprised by this, but I love you, dolls – you are like the sisters I never had!

If I never get anything else out of blogging, I have at least found 4 sisters for life (I hope!).

To you: the person who is reading this, right now, whoever you may be. Thank you.

You all have made this a year beyond my wildest dreams.  If I had known that blogging would lead me to such an amazing community I would have started eons ago!  This goes so far beyond the joy writing again brings me, or the contacts I have made, or the opportunities that have resulted.

This is about the people.  This is about you.

Without you this blog would just be empty words on empty pages.  You breathed life into it, and for that I will never be able to thank you enough.

A Special Giveaway

I wish I could give each of my readers a special gift to show my appreciation for taking the time to stop by my blog.  Unfortunately, I would either have to rob a bank or marry Gerard Butler to be able to afford that, and since neither of those is likely anytime soon…

I thought long and hard about what to pick and had narrowed it down to way too many things (ha!) when this idea occurred to me.  Everyone knows I adore jewelry, but instead of picking something FOR you I have decided to give you an opportunity to pick what you like for yourself, on me.

The Prize

Up for grabs is a $100 Gift certificate to BaubleBar!

I own a few pieces myself and can’t wait to add to my collection, so I am sure you’ll enjoy this.  I will not be tweeting about this contest or promoting it on facebook because I want this to be for you, my regular readers.

How to Enter:

Simply leave a comment below by midnight EST on June 30th, 2011

The winner will be drawn using a random number generator and announced on July 1st.

International residents are also eligible, so comment away!

Thank you, again, for a wonderful year! Here is to many more!

{ 46 comments… add one }

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  • Maiah June 24, 2011, 11:11 PM

    thank you for the inspiration.

    Reply
  • Rlutz71 June 24, 2011, 1:58 PM

    I think you are incredible and inspiring…

    Reply
  • Elly June 23, 2011, 11:38 AM

    Happy blogiversary! (breaking my general silence to say hello and a huge congratulations!) I’m so thrilled to see you reach this milestone…you’ve become a really lovely voice in the blogging community, and I always enjoy your thoughts, humor, generosity, and determination to stand up for your ideas and ideals.

    And what a lovely post for the occasion… May your next year(s) of blogging continue to grow ever more fulfilling, creative, and friend-filled!

    Reply
  • Jess Christensen June 22, 2011, 9:11 PM

    Congratulations on a great year!

    Reply
  • Metsy June 20, 2011, 3:41 PM

    Happy anniversary! Here’s to many more years of amazing Beautifully Invisible blogs to inspire us all. Thank you! 🙂

    Reply
  • Sharon Fielding June 20, 2011, 2:54 PM

    Congrats on the one year anni!!!!

    Reply
  • kristy June 20, 2011, 12:58 PM

    this post made me misty-eyed!!!!!!!! happy 1 year blogaversary!!! it’s such a special time in a blogger’s life =) you’ve accomplished so much and come so far in one short year and i’m so happy for you. i’m so excited we’ve become so close and shared so much together. and that you feel that way too makes it all the more better.

    so much love to you darling and here’s to another fabulous year of blogging!!!!

    Reply
  • Jessica June 20, 2011, 10:25 AM

    Congrats on one year! Blogging is so fun and rewarding! I follow you and always look forward to your posts!

    Reply
  • Elle June 20, 2011, 1:08 AM

    Oh B I can’t believe I’m just reading this post -life has been slipping away from me this past week. I love this though- you are so lovely inside and out, and I’m so glad I found your blog- you have been an inspiration and oh so helpful- thanks for always answering my questions and including me in such a wonderful experience through your tweets, link love with a twist and your blog events.

    Reply
  • Ashley June 20, 2011, 12:19 AM

    Awww this part was my favorite:
    Without you this blog would just be empty words on empty pages. You breathed life into it, and for that I will never be able to thank you enough.

    You’re a beautiful writer with such a beautiful spirit. So glad you carved out your very own special place in the blog world. <3

    Reply
  • vanessa June 19, 2011, 11:29 PM

    Congrats on your one year blogiversary! It must feel so amazing to have stuck with it a year, and you have a great blog to show for it. I always look forward to reading your posts, and you produce really fresh content.

    Reply
  • Kathy Grin June 19, 2011, 11:14 PM

    Congratulations and Happy blogiversary! I hope you may have more anniversaries to come. Thank you for serving as role model for the rest of us.

    Reply
  • Rocquelle June 19, 2011, 10:07 PM

    Congrats on your 1st Blogiversary darling!! I am glad I discovered your blog a few months ago and enjoy our twitter and instagram chats! May your 2nd year be better than your 1st?!!

    Reply
  • Anna June 19, 2011, 12:39 PM

    Happy Blogiversary B!! Here’s to many years of blogging! I’m glad I met a Tom Ford groupie in the blogosphere!! (and I think the gift should be Tom Ford related :P….maybe next year???)

    Reply
  • Jamillah June 19, 2011, 11:30 AM

    Oh B! Happy blogiversary! BI and you represent pretty much everything I love about the blogging community and blogs. I can always rely on you for stellar content, wonderful advice and an open heart.

    I hope you feel all the love this day because I am soooooo happy that you and your blog exist in my world. I’m sending you endless hugs, friend. LOVE YOU!

    Reply
  • Dusk June 19, 2011, 11:14 AM

    Wellllll… I’m not too comfortable commenting on this post because I’m one of your silent admirers 🙂 and this is a give away post so… count me out of the give away but count me in amongst your well wishers! Happy Blogversary!
    …maybe this year you will grant us the delight of yourself…??

    Reply
  • MikeK June 19, 2011, 11:12 AM

    Happy blogiversary! I think the first year is the most difficult. I love your humor and writing style and will visit your vlog more often now… 🙂

    Reply
  • A Brit Greek June 19, 2011, 2:42 AM

    Well congrats and happy birthday to the blog doll! I have always loved your voice, writing style and the kick ass imagery you have to go with the posts!

    I’ll always be coming back for more.
    x.o.x.o

    Reply
  • Alexis of NorthOnHarper June 18, 2011, 11:40 PM

    What a beautiful letter….

    Thank you for constantly writing great material and being dedicated to your blog. You sincerity and thoughtfulness (plus your sense of style!) help to inspire me.

    Reply
  • No Guilt Fashion June 18, 2011, 10:22 PM

    Thank you love! Your blog/tweets have been so inspirational to me. This was a sweet celebration post.

    Reply
  • GRIT & GLAMOUR June 18, 2011, 10:03 PM

    Aw, B, you really ARE like the TWIN I never had! We have soooooo many similarities, it is rather uncanny. Tom Ford. YSL. Gucci. Gerard. Rings. Writing. Lord, it goes on. Sometimes I discover we are wearing even the same polish on a given week, that we’re contemplating the same things. It trips me out and also makes me feel like I really do have a kindred spirit out there.

    Happy one-year anniversary! Look how far you’ve come (it only took me five)! Your blog is truly one of my favorites. I am looking forward to many more posts from you, and to our real-life get together. You’re the best, doll!

    Cheers!

    Reply
  • THE-LOUDMOUTH June 18, 2011, 8:03 PM

    Even if you weren’t hosting a giveaway, I would comment. This is such a sweet post, B! I love you dearly and I think the community we have here is something special. I can’t wait to meet you in New York! Congrats on one year of being an incredible, amazing, wonderful blogger. Your feature goes up Monday 🙂

    Reply
  • Courtney June 18, 2011, 7:27 PM

    Congrats B. Your humor, confidence and writing style keeps me coming back for more 🙂

    Reply
  • Kate W June 18, 2011, 7:03 PM

    I LOVE YOU. (and i love your blog oodles too!) Your insight and incredible inspiration are always appreciated. You have no idea how important you are to us, your readers. You are an incredibly talented blogger and I look forward to reading your posts. You are truly amazing. Thank you for everything that you do & write:) Happy 1st Blog-iversary! I hope to follow you through many more!

    Reply
  • Alyson June 18, 2011, 6:51 PM

    Wow! Happy blogiversary!! For some reason thought you had been blogging for ages. You’re great at it. Tanks so much for sharing of yourself. Look forward to connecting with you more during your year two!

    Reply
  • MJ June 18, 2011, 6:24 PM

    HAPPY BLOGIVERSARY!!! I am soo glad to have met you and you have truly made your mark on the blogging world! You are super awesome and can’t wait to see what you accomplish by the next one! 🙂

    Reply
  • LaCara June 18, 2011, 5:58 PM

    Happy Blogiversary!!! You are an amazing inspiration to the blogging community, and I’m glad I found your blog through the lovely Anika! 🙂

    <3

    Reply
  • FASHION TALES June 18, 2011, 5:41 PM

    Happy Blogiversary love! You have done so much and I’m happy to have met you through the blogging community. Looking forward to reading and viewing more from you & your witty-inspiring blog! -xo
    Madison

    Reply
  • Anna June 18, 2011, 4:59 PM

    Happy anniversary and congratulations!
    Thank you so much for many inspirational articles. They’re always interesting and pleasure to read.
    BTW, you have a great taste 🙂

    Reply
  • Casee Marie June 18, 2011, 3:46 PM

    I won’t cry…I won’t.

    It’s been an absolutely amazing experience to get to know you so well and to watch Beautifully Invisible grow into what it is: a fascinating exploration through the world of fashion and beyond. I don’t really know how to write it so you’ll believe me – because you share my insecurities as a blogger – but everything you’ve ever produced through this blog has been riveting. You’re the sort of blogger with substance that I aspire to be. Think what you want, but I’m the one trying to walk in your footsteps, doll. When I think of Beautifully Invisible I sort of imagine this box without a bottom, and it’s filled with countless relevant, exceedingly well-written articles on topics that demand my attention. With every single post I notice the others in your LinkWithin and every time the visual comes back and I just think, I wanna be like her. You – and your blog – are truly a force to be reckoned with. You have this outrageous talent for creating big content, meaningful content that truly affects people, and sometimes I don’t think you even realize it. So while you’re celebrating us, your readers, I’m celebrating you and the way you’ve impacted how I see the world of blogging – not to mention the things I want to achieve as a blogger. I just can’t believe you’ve created everything you have in a year’s time; what this next year has in store for you I can only imagine. The moon and the stars and nothing less. I can’t wait to see it all happen.

    I also have to thank you for the mention, I think that’s where I started to lose my will not to cry. It left me a bit speechless, but you know all too well how much I return every single sentiment. I just adore you, and Anika and Kristy and Vahni. You’re all the most amazing women I’ve ever been fortunate enough to know and your inspiration to me has no limits.

    And lastly, I’m a little surprised that such a milestone post doesn’t have the words Tom Ford in it (though you did mention Gerry, I saw that), so I’ll just toss him in here for sentimentality’s sake. Tom Ford, Tom Ford, Tom Ford, Tom Ford. Happy blogiversary!

    Reply
  • Tanvi June 18, 2011, 3:06 PM

    CONGRATULATIONS on completing one year of blogging! 🙂 It has been wonderful knowing you through the past year!

    ♥ from © tanvii.com

    Reply
  • Cate June 18, 2011, 2:45 PM

    ahh! so excited! just celebrated 2 years. i know exciting it is.
    congratulations, and thank you for being such an amazing resource and role model for the rest of us.
    to many more amazing years.

    Reply
  • Bella Q June 18, 2011, 2:40 PM

    Happy Bloggerversary, B! Now what was Bloggerland like before YOU?

    Reply
  • lauren June 18, 2011, 2:34 PM

    Happy anniversary!
    Happy anniversary!
    Happy anniversary!
    I’m glad you have earned 4 new sisters… you always have me too -insert cheesey smile- We have just begun to get to know each other, but I know we have a long way to go 🙂

    xoxo

    Reply
  • Gabrielle June 18, 2011, 2:17 PM

    I just wanted to say CONGRATS! I don’t always comment, but you and your blog are big inspirations to me. 🙂 I hope you’ll continue to be on the web, and your blog too, ,for years to come. xx

    Reply
  • jenn~the stylish housewife June 18, 2011, 1:29 PM

    CONGRATULATIONS on your one year blogiversary! i have loved reading your blog and can’t wait to see what the next year brings. isn’t it amazing how blogging brings so many wonderful people into your life? i too, feel i have made so many wonderful “friends”…including you…mostly through tweets! =) your 10 things that drive me crazy post is one of my all time faves! congrats again!

    ~xo, jenn

    Reply
  • Ashe @ Dramatis Personae June 18, 2011, 1:26 PM

    Am I a sap that this made me teary a bit?

    Happy 1 year anniversary, my sweet! Here’s to many years blogging ahead.

    Reply
  • Jenmarie June 18, 2011, 1:25 PM

    Wow! Has it been a year already? You certainly have accomplished so much in the blogosphere in just a year. You are an inspiration and master-mind to us all B and I wish you many more blogging years!

    Reply
  • Any Second Now June 18, 2011, 1:22 PM

    Happy blogiversary! Mine is coming up soon, too. It’s amazing what happens in a year. Your blog is amazing, as are you. I’m glad to have met this community of bloggers, that includes you and your 4 sisters in bloggerhood.

    Cheers and heres to many more!

    xoxo
    Cyrillynn

    Reply