FAQ

Blogger Stephanie Ziajka answers her top personal and blog FAQs on Diary of a Debutante

Have a question? I’m answering all my most popular personal and blog FAQ below!

Where do you live?

I split my time right now between Orlando, Florida and Columbia, Missouri. Kyle and I moved to the Midwest in 2017 for his job and have grown to absolutely love it. People think we’re crazy (I mean, who doesn’t want to live by the beach, right!?), but everyone’s so nice– and after living in Florida for over 25 years, a new adventure was long overdue. Plus, it’s nice having seasons for a change!

Who takes your pictures?

I work with an amazing photographer, Catherine Rhodes, who takes about half of my photos. You’ll know it’s her work if you see Photography by Catherine Rhodes at the bottom of a post. She’s a crazy busy, in-demand wedding photographer, though, so Kyle shoots quite a bit of my photos, as well. 

What camera do you shoot with?

I shoot with a Canon 70D, although I’ve learned that the camera itself isn’t nearly as important as its lenses. That being said, I use this affordable fixed 50mm lens whenever I can. It’s amazing. 

How do you edit your photos?

This one’s quick and easy– Adobe Lightroom! It makes editing an absolute breeze! I also use Mastin Labs presets for desktop and Light and Airy presets for mobile. 

How did you start your blog?

It’s kind of embarrassing, but I started my blog back in 2012 to document my year in the Miss America Organization. You had to have 3 random facts about yourself listed on your pageant resume– and I’m a math nerd who needed to look less nerdy, so “runs her own fashion blog” just sounded like a good option at the time. Honestly, though, I wouldn’t have known what I was doing without Ashley Nicholas. She’s both my real-life and blogging BFF, and she talked me into hopping on Blogger back in the day. 

Do you have an assistant?

Yes, and I couldn’t live without her! Her name is Kathryn, and she primarily manages my Instagram. I also work with an incredible graphic designer named Cris who helps me create graphics and pins for Pinterest. If you’re looking for help, I found them both on FreeeUp actually!

What’s your educational background?

I graduated with a BS in Actuarial Science from the University of Central Florida and worked in finance as the Operations Manager for a boutique wealth management firm for about 5 years after graduating. I got burnt out, relapsed from my eating disorder, and decided something needed to change. Luckily, I’d kept up with my blog as creative outlet during my corporate days, so it was fortunate enough to be able to make the switch from finance to full-time blogging. 

Are you an eating disorder expert?

Absolutely not. I suffered from an eating disorder for the better part of my twenties, though, so I classify myself as an advocate who personally understands the dangers of anorexia and bulimia. If you or someone you love are suffering from an eating disorder, please contact a professional. You can also click here for a list of resources I found to be instrumental on my road to recovery. 

Do you have tips for new bloggers?

Yes! I’ve written a few posts about how to become a full-time blogger, blogging mistakes I wish I could take back, and all the blogging and social media tools I can’t live without. You can also click the Blog Tips tab under Life on my main menu for more articles.

Are you on Poshmark?

I am! You can check out my closet here

What kind of dogs are Nala and Nellie?

Nala and Nellie are Golden Retrievers, and I love them more than life itself. 

Can I send you an email?

Absolutely!! If your question wasn’t answered in this blog FAQ– or if you just want to say hi, you can email me anytime at [email protected].

Photography by Catherine Rhodes