I may have a girl crush on my “noteworthy woman” featured today. As a matter of fact my husband told me that he knows I do because I keep showing him pictures and reading him selections from her book and that is his obvious conclusion.
Well, he might be right but don’t get me wrong. Glenda Harrison is worthy of all of the accolades and admiration that I can shower upon her.
Logo credit – Glenda Harrison
I met Glenda at BAMC16 in Las Vegas in April. She appeared on one of the panels and I loved that her husband and sons were there to support her during her time there. It made her even more real to me. I spoke with Glenda briefly at the conference (she was in high demand) and I purchased her book and finally had the chance to sit down and read it not too long ago. I loved it. Her book, A Place Called Peace, is a journey with Glenda on her life and her philosophy of embracing it all leaks through in every single word. You can read my review on Goodreads by clicking here.
Glenda has a fashion blog with the name of So What to Twenty! where she writes about fashion and models her wonderful clothing. She is stunning and I know you will want to check out some of her blog posts. Glenda was gracious enough to answer a few questions for me and I know you will enjoy reading a bit about what makes Glenda Glenda.
Glenda Harrison–photo by Fred Harrison
1. I read your wonderful book after I met you at BAM and loved reading your story. Can you share with my readers why you felt you needed to write your story and share it? I’m a firm believer in looking at and examining the past in order to move forward successfully. I know many people believe you shouldn’t, stating the past is in the past, but if you can’t take a close look at the mistakes you’ve made, and grow from them, you’ll find yourself repeating the same old bull. I needed to go back. Telling my story was my way of facing that part of me head on. Yes, it was scary to release my story to the world, but there is such power in vulnerability. With each chapter, I could feel my life coming together. Everything began to make sense. I felt free – like the shackles were falling off. With that knowing, I was able to move forward as a new, uninhibited Glenda. Has it been anything like you thought it would be or has the journey taken twists and turns along the way? Gosh Beth Ann, I really didn’t know what to expect. I think all writers have the fantasy of Oprah discovering the book, and then you’re instantly placed in the elite classification. But putting fantasy aside, at the onset of 2016, I declared this the year of – I’m Ready. Meaning, I would be ready for whatever new road I was willing to take. My life exploded when I attended BAM. I reluctantly signed up to be a speaker (I have/had a dreadful fear of public speaking), but I wasn’t willing to let my fear keep me from what could possibly come my way. This was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Not only did I face the fear of speaking, but without knowing, Chico’s knew I was speaking and was excited to collaborate with my brand. Since BAM I’ve been featured on the Chico’s blog – Inside Chic, and will collaborate with them for the rest of 2016; I’m now being interviewed by the wonderful Beth Ann; and I’ve been invited to write for several websites and GRAND Magazine. When I wrote my book did I expect these things to happen? Nope, not at all, but I’m sure thankful they have.
2. What is your favorite spot to write? I have a nice spot within my bedroom that’s my dedicated office space. I love it. My desk faces two ceiling to floor windows that look out over my front yard. I love to open my windows and hear the sounds of nature, and watch butterflies and honeybees enjoy the lavender. My “office” is decorated with items that make me smile…a table lamp with a floral lampshade, miniature bird cages, my fashion books, art that my readers blessed me with, candles. I also have a framed dry erase board I use for jotting notes and mapping out my next book. Do you have a set writing schedule or do you wing it? I try to write when the house is quiet.Which has proven difficult now that school is out for the summer. For me, writing has to come naturally and organic. I can’t just sit down at my desk at a scheduled time and expect the words to flow. I’m usually inspired by something that triggers me to write. What I have discovered, I must have my Morning Massage if I’m to truly get into writing. My Morning Massage is when I wake early for exercise, then after the workout, my mind is clear. I then journal my thoughts, and spend time in my quiet zone. After I’ve done this, I’m usually ready to rock and roll. There truly is a connection between the mind and body.
3. Your blog is a beautiful blend of writing and photography. If I am correct your husband does your photography. How does it work to have your husband be such an integral part of your blog and of your journey in the fashion world? It seems natural. My husband is my biggest cheerleader. He knows me better than anyone. He can tell when I’m into the photo shoot, and when I’m not feeling it. When he first spotted me, one of the first things he noticed about me was how I dressed and carried myself. I was in college when we first met. He use to accompany me on some of the field trips to art museums. So, he is quite aware of my love for style, fashion and art. With So What to Twenty, I talk about style through storytelling, and fashion is the visual picture. In other words, I view fashion as the cast of characters in my life story. In order to tell an interesting story, the scenery, costume and character all must become a part of the big picture. Therefore, we spend a good amount of time composing the story in conjunction with the location of our photo shoots.
4. What is your all time favorite post that you have published to date on your blog? The next one (smile). I’m serious! Just when I think I composed the best style story I can possibly do, the next one rocks my world. I hope that’s not conceited, but a writer can feel his/her work. I can tell when my community is going to enjoy it. But since you want me to be more specific, then I’ll have to say one of my most recent stories called – What Lies Beneath. It’s one of my favorites because it comes together harmoniously to create a style story that makes sense. Both word and fashion work congruently to tell a complete story. I would love to have a link for my readers to click on that is your personal favorite. Here is the direct link to that post: So What to Twenty!: What Lies Beneath
5. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self what would it be? It may take some time to finally find you, but Glenda, when you do…get ready to soar!
Photography by Fred Harrison
6. Anything that you want my readers to know about you, about writing, about fashion ? I honestly can’t remember a time in my life when fashion, writing and storytelling wasn’t a part of my life. After exploring myself on a much deeper level, and sharing my story in my memoir – A Place Called Peace, I can now depict more than just getting dressed, which is why So What to Twenty! talks about more than clothes. I discovered early on that fashion with no substance is far less interesting.
Thank you, Glenda, for sharing yourself with my readers. Below are several ways that you can connect with Glenda including the Chico’s article which is a huge feather in Glenda’s hat. You know what? It couldn’t’ have happened to a nicer person.
Previous Noteworthy Women post can be found here.
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