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Ruthie Ridley

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One Year Anniversary

January 4, 2016 By Ruthie Ridley 38 Comments

I can’t believe it has been one year since my blog started! SO much has happened since then. It is crazy. I am celebrating so much today. More than reaching my goal of consistently blogging every week last year, but  the confidence, growth and personal strength I have gained along the way. I am so grateful for this space that I have to create. Believe it or not, something as simple as blogging gives me so much joy, keeps my mind going and my heart alive. From the emails to the outfits, the photos down to the content, I enjoy it all. Not to mention the absolutely incredible people I have met along the way.
When I started back in January of last year, in my opinion, I didn’t have the necessary tools to blog, but decided that I was going to get started anyway. For example, for the first 6-7 months my photographer and I used an iphone 5 to take my pictures. I worked on mastering the art of editing and did everything I could to make my photos look as professional as possible. We finally got a “real” camera and began to take things to the next level. I am really glad that I didn’t wait until everything was perfect before I began. I want to encourage you to pursue your dreams and goals even before you have all of your ducks in a row. Beautiful things happen when we step out in faith. Inspite of my lack, this past year I have had the ultimate privelage of working with nearly 20 different brands/boutiques/shops. Those numbers are only proof to me that God can use anyone and make something out of nothing.
I remember initially feeling very inadequate and insecure coming into such a saturated, creative sphere. Week by week, post after post I did everything I could to pushed through my insecurites and tried to find ways to indivdually create and brand myself. I am still on this journey of discovery and branding and doing the best I can to not compare my self to others. I am slowly learning (and the truth is beginning to set in), that you and I have something to offer this world that no one else does.  That truth is so powerful when realized and acted upon.
There are 3 things I learned from my first year of blogging that I am honestly still learning and areas that I continue to grow in: 1) Set high goals and strive for excellence in your work. God can and will exeed your expectations as well as equip you for any task. 2) Stay in your lane and don’t compare yourself to others. You were made uniquely and with a purpose that no one else has! Focus on the path laid in front of you and don’t let comparsion rob you of your joy. 3) Be kind to yourself. Celebrate your accomplishments big and small and try not to sweat the small things. Life is to short too major in minor issues!
Thank you so much to everyone who has taken the time to follow along and support me over the past year. I have had a blast and I am confident that this next year is going to be an amazing one!! Happy New Year!!! Reach for the sky with me!
Ruthie xo

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All images by: Sarah Schweyer Photography

Jumpsuit: Taylor Jay Collection

Bag: Free Style Clothing Exchange
Necklace: Target

Bracelet: Charlotte Russe

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Filed Under: Fashion Forward, Life Tagged With: blogger, California, fashion, mom, mom fashion, mom style, sacramento, style, stylist, trends, women's fashion

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Anna says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:16 am

    What a great post! I am also approaching my first blogging anniversary and I can so totally relate to everything you’ve said. Love the new look!!!
    Xo, Anna
    http://www.pepperandlife.com

    Reply
  2. Gunjan says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:21 am

    Ruthie, this was absolutely beautiful. Congratulations on the success over the past year. You absolutely deserve every bit and more. I’m glad we became connected this past year and I hope we can meet some day! All the best for 2016!

    Ps. The rebranding and new site design look great. I am so glad you chose to go with Pipdig 🙂

    Reply
  3. Molly Clifton says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:21 am

    These photos are so gorgeous! Love that jumpsuit on you! Congratulations on completing your first year of blogging. I started last year too and have learned many of the same things! Best of luck to you on your fashion journey!

    Keep smiling!
    Molly | http://www.stylemissmolly.com

    Reply
  4. Stefanie says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:29 am

    Ruthie you look smokin! Congrats on your 1 year anniversary! You’re amazing! Xoxo

    Reply
  5. Annie says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:31 am

    GIRL – your makeup is incredible in these photos! You are just beaming and glowing! So happy for you!
    xo Annie
    http://collectivepassions.com

    Reply
  6. Sarah says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:31 am

    So proud of you! You really deserve this and inspire people all over! Including me 😀 Love you so much!! XX

    Reply
  7. Samantha says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:39 am

    This looks AMAZING! I love the new and fresh look for the blog!

    Reply
  8. Elda says

    January 4, 2016 at 9:39 am

    Love this! I like how you said “Be kind to yourself” it’s so true sometimes doubt sets in us and cause fear and other emotions to stop us from our next level, BUT God makes it so possible! I am enjoying your positive blog keep up the awesome work.

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 6, 2016 at 7:36 am

      Elda, thank you so much for reading and enocuraging me!! xo

      Reply
  9. simplygailg says

    January 4, 2016 at 10:24 am

    This post made me happy. You’re so inspirational. Your words truly hit home. Thank you! You look amazing by the way. That white jumpsuit suits you so well. ?

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 6, 2016 at 7:43 am

      oh my goodness, I am blushing. Thank you so much for your kind words!! xo

      Reply
  10. Caroline says

    January 4, 2016 at 10:40 am

    You are so gorgeous and inspiring! Congrats on your first year! So excited to follow your journey.

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 6, 2016 at 7:45 am

      Thank you so much!!! You are the best! xo

      Reply
  11. thestylelynnkind says

    January 4, 2016 at 11:38 am

    Omgeeee!!! Where do I start? First off you are killing it in this fab jumpsuit dear!! Secondly, I love the new look of your page! And last but not least I seriously love your vibe and outlook on life! So glad to have met you Ruthie!! Sending you lots of love!!

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 6, 2016 at 7:46 am

      You are so kind to me always!! SO thankful for you dear!! xo

      Reply
  12. Eli says

    January 4, 2016 at 1:04 pm

    New website looks awesome! Love it!

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 6, 2016 at 7:51 am

      Thank you Eli!!

      Reply
  13. Jada says

    January 4, 2016 at 1:06 pm

    Everything about this is stunning!!! Your such an inspiration girl!!

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 6, 2016 at 7:52 am

      Jada, thank you so much! You are so very kind to me!! xo

      Reply
  14. Jen Frick says

    January 4, 2016 at 1:10 pm

    You are an inspiration, Ruthie!! Congratulations on your first year and your blogging journey thus far! I know God has such a great plan for you and I’m so excited to see what He does next! It has been a blessing getting to know you and meeting you through #stylecollective! Keep killing it and keep being you! xoxo

    Jen | http://www.lettersandpearls.com

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 6, 2016 at 7:53 am

      Jen, I am so thankful for you!! You continue to be a bright light in my day!! I know this year is going to be amazing for all of us!! xo

      Reply
  15. Krista Williams says

    January 4, 2016 at 1:40 pm

    So awesome to see the progress you’ve made in just one year! I especially loved this, “I remember initially feeling very inadequate and insecure coming into such a saturated, creative sphere. Week by week, post after post I did everything I could to pushed through my insecurites and tried to find ways to indivdually create and brand myself.” I can totally relate!

    Keep it up and can’t wait to see what you do in 2016!

    Happy New Year!
    xo
    Krista
    http://www.hundredblog.com

    Reply
    • Ruthie Ridley says

      January 5, 2016 at 8:52 am

      Krista thank you so much for taking the time to read and encourage me!! It’s so good to know that I’m not alone!! Xo

      Reply
  16. Kait Elizabeth says

    January 4, 2016 at 2:14 pm

    You are so inspiring Ruthie! I can’t believe you’ve come so far in a year, congratulations love. Also, you are absolutely stunning- this jumpsuit was made for you. Hugs, Kait
    http://makeminemaroon.com/

    Reply
    • Ruthie Ridley says

      January 5, 2016 at 8:52 am

      Kati these words mean more than you know!! Thank you for all the love and for always cheering me on. Xo

      Reply
  17. tiarasandsequins says

    January 4, 2016 at 4:02 pm

    Ruthie thank you for sharing these lovely words. I’m a fairly new blogger and your post has encouraged me to keep forging on.

    Reply
    • Ruthie Ridley says

      January 5, 2016 at 8:51 am

      Thank you so much for reading!! I’m so glad you felt encouraged. Xo

      Reply
  18. Kathryn says

    January 5, 2016 at 6:43 am

    Ahh…Ruther you are so beautiful and unique! I love your blog, your style and your beautiful personality! Keep it up girl; ’cause I am looking forward to another year!

    Reply
    • Ruthie Ridley says

      January 5, 2016 at 8:50 am

      Thank you so much!! I’m so thankful for your constant support!! It means so much to me.

      Reply
  19. Brandie Freely says

    January 5, 2016 at 9:09 am

    You’ve been amazing from the very beginning, Ruthie! Such a beautiful inspiration you are! #keepgoing XO!!

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 5, 2016 at 10:09 pm

      You’re so sweet to me!!! Thank you so much!! I’m so glad our paths crossed!!

      Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 6, 2016 at 7:29 am

      Thank you so much love!! I so appreciate all your kind words and support!!

      Reply
  20. ruthieridley says

    January 6, 2016 at 7:35 am

    Thank you so much Rachel!! xo

    Reply
  21. angelpatricks says

    January 7, 2016 at 2:47 am

    Hi Ruthie, came across your blog through a blogger am now following. Your words are beautiful and encouraging. Thank you, will stop by often!

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 12, 2016 at 9:57 am

      Thank you so much Angel! Can’t wait to check out your blog! Much love! xo

      Reply
  22. Shell says

    January 7, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    I am so blessed to have found and connected with you! You are such an inspiration to me and my favorite thing about you is that you are my sister in Christ! Keep it up!!!! You have many admirers!
    xo, Shell
    http://acourageousbeauty.com/

    Reply
    • ruthieridley says

      January 12, 2016 at 9:54 am

      Sisters in Christ forever. I am so thankful for you sweet Shell. You are a gem. xo

      Reply
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    October 8, 2020 at 7:28 pm

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Ruthie Ridley Blog was established in January of 2015 out of a strong desire to have a place for creative expression both with her love for all things fashion and deep faith in Christ. Ruthie loves classic, timeless style with a side of fun, flirty flair! Faith and family is the foundation of her life where everything she does flows out from. She believes that with hard work and chasing big dreams, anything can be achieved!

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We purchased the #RidleyRetreat in August 2019 and We purchased the #RidleyRetreat in August 2019 and it is taking us so long to get each room sorted! I guess this is normal 🤪...This is my office and I decided just the other day that I wanted a plant stand!!! I am trying desperately to be a successful plant mom LOL! This plant stand came from @Walmart. #ad It was so awesome because when I decided I wanted to buy the plant stand I ordered with my #walmartplus membership which meant I received Walmart+ free shipping, no order minimum (excludes oversized/freight & Marketplace items)!http://liketk.it/35zt2 #liketkit @liketoknow.it
Hey Y'all! Have you made any fitness resolutions t Hey Y'all! Have you made any fitness resolutions this year?! #ad I didn't, but I am going HARDCORE after my health! I started the Keto Diet on Christmas Day like a fool lol! In addition, I have been doing Cycle and HIIT 5 days a week, which has been such a good challenge! Great workout clothes are a must for me as far as staying motivated! I know that might sound crazy!! This is my third pair of Zella leggings and I still want more!! They are SO soft and keep everything in all the right places!! I wear this pullover to the gym several times a week. It keeps me warm, but also allows me to lift weights and run around during my workout!! Shop this entire look via link in my bio!! @nordstrom #nordstrom @shopstyle
The #RidleyRetreat is slowly owning up to its name The #RidleyRetreat is slowly owning up to its name! It’s taken us a long time to get rooms sorted but I’m so so happy with the way our living room turned out!! Swipe left to see the before 🤯🤯. I’ve wanted an @article couch like this for years!! God is good! Links to items are in my stories 💖💖 #GiftedByArticle 📸 @hannahjoyphoto
“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and s “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” Proverbs 31:25 http://liketk.it/35z80 @liketoknow.it 📸 @itserikachristine
Every year I like to feature the @pantone colors o Every year I like to feature the @pantone colors of the year in an outfit. This year they chose both grey and yellow for 2021. “A marriage of color conveying a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting.” Love the meaning behind the combo and I also love wearing grey!! What are your thoughts on this years @pantone colors?!! http://liketk.it/3558N 📸 @itserikachristine
Hey y’all!! Happy Saturday!! Super amped because Hey y’all!! Happy Saturday!! Super amped because after years of Ben being on swings/nights 👮🏼‍♀️ he got on days!! He will be home for dinner tonight and we are all 💃🏾🕺🏼!! We are ready to start a good show!! Drop your fave shows rn in the comments!!! Also, I did a try on haul on stories today with 6 looks including this one that I am LOVING right now 🥰🥰🥰. Side note: gotta love the in between shots 😆😆 
(Swipe left) Shop this look via link in my bio. http://liketk.it/354En #liketkit @liketoknow.it
See you never 2020 ✨🥂✨... (swipe left to re See you never 2020 ✨🥂✨... (swipe left to read my thoughts as we charge onward into the New Year). Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year believing with my mustard seeds of faith that the very best is yet to come!! Sending you all our love friends ✨😘 📸 @etchedintime_photography
So who watched “Sister, Sister” back in the da So who watched “Sister, Sister” back in the day?!!! I loved that show so much! Tia and Tamara used to rock these bucket hats like nobody’s business!! I had to give it a shot since they are back!!! Are bucket hats a yay or nay for you in 2021?! http://liketk.it/34Vn5 #liketkit @liketoknow.it 📸 @itserikachristine
Show of hands, who loves the snow?! I definitely d Show of hands, who loves the snow?! I definitely don't mind looking at it but I don't love getting cold by it!! You feel me!? lol!! Right before Christmas we took the kids up to Lake Tahoe for a mini getaway! Ben had a few days off in a row and the kids were dying to get to the snow!! I was determined to dress appropriately for the occasion! Luckily while they were tubing and making snow men, I was the photographer- but at least I was warm!! This Sweaty Betty set from @Nordstrom is the perfect underlayer for the snow.  I also cannot stress enough the importance of the proper footwear.  Sorel has it down... my feet did not get cold for one second!! Shop this look via link in my bio! @shopstyle #nordstrom #AD
I’m married to a stud!!! 🤓 A few months back I’m married to a stud!!! 🤓
A few months back Ben was driving around on his shift and realized he was having trouble seeing the signs on the road. It was time to get his eyes checked.  He discovered that he definitely needed glasses! I absolutely love the frames he picked out at @eyeglassworld! We both feel like we’re getting old but, no complaints when the frames are this nice LOL!! Definitely take advantage of @eyeglassworld’s 2 for $78 deal if you’re in need of a new pair for yourself or a family member! #EGWpartner 📸 @hannahjoyphoto
How does everyone feel about Christmas 🎄 coming How does everyone feel about Christmas 🎄 coming and going 🤪?! I literally feel like I just put my tree up and I put it up EARLY!! Not sure how I feel about mentally preparing for 2021 but here we go!!! 😆💃🏾⭐️😝❤️ http://liketk.it/34Dwn 📸 @itserikachristine
Merry, Merry Christmas!!! 🎄🎁 We even got the Merry, Merry Christmas!!! 🎄🎁 We even got the boys dressed this year 🐶😆 Swipe left to see previous years in matching PJ’s 🥰. Sending you all of our love this morning!! #MerryChristmas

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We purchased the #RidleyRetreat in August 2019 and We purchased the #RidleyRetreat in August 2019 and it is taking us so long to get each room sorted! I guess this is normal 🤪...This is my office and I decided just the other day that I wanted a plant stand!!! I am trying desperately to be a successful plant mom LOL! This plant stand came from @Walmart. #ad It was so awesome because when I decided I wanted to buy the plant stand I ordered with my #walmartplus membership which meant I received Walmart+ free shipping, no order minimum (excludes oversized/freight & Marketplace items)!http://liketk.it/35zt2 #liketkit @liketoknow.it
Hey Y'all! Have you made any fitness resolutions t Hey Y'all! Have you made any fitness resolutions this year?! #ad I didn't, but I am going HARDCORE after my health! I started the Keto Diet on Christmas Day like a fool lol! In addition, I have been doing Cycle and HIIT 5 days a week, which has been such a good challenge! Great workout clothes are a must for me as far as staying motivated! I know that might sound crazy!! This is my third pair of Zella leggings and I still want more!! They are SO soft and keep everything in all the right places!! I wear this pullover to the gym several times a week. It keeps me warm, but also allows me to lift weights and run around during my workout!! Shop this entire look via link in my bio!! @nordstrom #nordstrom @shopstyle
The #RidleyRetreat is slowly owning up to its name The #RidleyRetreat is slowly owning up to its name! It’s taken us a long time to get rooms sorted but I’m so so happy with the way our living room turned out!! Swipe left to see the before 🤯🤯. I’ve wanted an @article couch like this for years!! God is good! Links to items are in my stories 💖💖 #GiftedByArticle 📸 @hannahjoyphoto
“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and s “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” Proverbs 31:25 http://liketk.it/35z80 @liketoknow.it 📸 @itserikachristine
Every year I like to feature the @pantone colors o Every year I like to feature the @pantone colors of the year in an outfit. This year they chose both grey and yellow for 2021. “A marriage of color conveying a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting.” Love the meaning behind the combo and I also love wearing grey!! What are your thoughts on this years @pantone colors?!! http://liketk.it/3558N 📸 @itserikachristine
Hey y’all!! Happy Saturday!! Super amped because Hey y’all!! Happy Saturday!! Super amped because after years of Ben being on swings/nights 👮🏼‍♀️ he got on days!! He will be home for dinner tonight and we are all 💃🏾🕺🏼!! We are ready to start a good show!! Drop your fave shows rn in the comments!!! Also, I did a try on haul on stories today with 6 looks including this one that I am LOVING right now 🥰🥰🥰. Side note: gotta love the in between shots 😆😆 
(Swipe left) Shop this look via link in my bio. http://liketk.it/354En #liketkit @liketoknow.it
See you never 2020 ✨🥂✨... (swipe left to re See you never 2020 ✨🥂✨... (swipe left to read my thoughts as we charge onward into the New Year). Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year believing with my mustard seeds of faith that the very best is yet to come!! Sending you all our love friends ✨😘 📸 @etchedintime_photography
So who watched “Sister, Sister” back in the da So who watched “Sister, Sister” back in the day?!!! I loved that show so much! Tia and Tamara used to rock these bucket hats like nobody’s business!! I had to give it a shot since they are back!!! Are bucket hats a yay or nay for you in 2021?! http://liketk.it/34Vn5 #liketkit @liketoknow.it 📸 @itserikachristine
Show of hands, who loves the snow?! I definitely d Show of hands, who loves the snow?! I definitely don't mind looking at it but I don't love getting cold by it!! You feel me!? lol!! Right before Christmas we took the kids up to Lake Tahoe for a mini getaway! Ben had a few days off in a row and the kids were dying to get to the snow!! I was determined to dress appropriately for the occasion! Luckily while they were tubing and making snow men, I was the photographer- but at least I was warm!! This Sweaty Betty set from @Nordstrom is the perfect underlayer for the snow.  I also cannot stress enough the importance of the proper footwear.  Sorel has it down... my feet did not get cold for one second!! Shop this look via link in my bio! @shopstyle #nordstrom #AD
I’m married to a stud!!! 🤓 A few months back I’m married to a stud!!! 🤓
A few months back Ben was driving around on his shift and realized he was having trouble seeing the signs on the road. It was time to get his eyes checked.  He discovered that he definitely needed glasses! I absolutely love the frames he picked out at @eyeglassworld! We both feel like we’re getting old but, no complaints when the frames are this nice LOL!! Definitely take advantage of @eyeglassworld’s 2 for $78 deal if you’re in need of a new pair for yourself or a family member! #EGWpartner 📸 @hannahjoyphoto
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