December Mina Maven Katie Adams

 

You recently movied to Miami, how do you like it so far?

I like Miami a lot. It's very different from where I grew up. I'm from a town where it's mainly families and kids playing sports after school. No night clubs or trendy, hip restaurants like Miami Beach has to offer! It's definitely been a huge transition, but I am really loving every second of it and all the new friends I have made and the experiences I have had so far.

 

 

 

What have been some of the changes in your life since you moved to Miami Beach?

Well for one, I am a lot more active. It's so hard to find parking that I find myself walking everywhere! I love the fact that I can take a five minute walk and be at South Pointe Park or Lincoln Road. It's such a laid back lifestyle, and the different types of people I have met have exposed me to different views and cultures. Miami Beach has definitely broadened my horizon.

 

You are currently in school. what are you studying?

I studied Business Marketing at the University Of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and now I'm continuing my education at Florida International University for Hospitality. I really enjoy the creative aspect of marketing, but I also know one of my strengths is being able to deal with all types of personalities and people. I think that will help me excel in the hospitality industry.

 

 

 

You also have a full time job, how do you balance working and going to school?

One word: Coffee! Haha, but seriously, It's difficult at times, but I just really try to not get too stressed and remind myself that I'm only one person. I can only do so much. With all I have going on, I also try my best to balance spending time with my friends and my boyfriend. It's all very tough, especially when all of your girlfriends are going out and you have to work. I just always remind myself that my hard work will pay off in the long run.

 

 

Who inspires your wardrobe? How would you describe your fashion style?

 

 

I have a pretty classic wardrobe. If you look in my closet, I have rows and rows of blouses in all different colors and prints. I love wearing a nice pair of jeans and a tucked in silk blouse with some incredibly high heels. That's pretty much my uniform; I am pretty set in my ways. I always admire peoples styles and try to emulate them in my own little way as well. My boyfriend has 5 sisters, and they always dress great, so I would say my inspiration comes from family and random people I see out. I'm notorious for walking up to someone and asking where they got their dress or top!

I also love mixing and matching. I love when someone is like, "Oh my gosh, where did you get your outfit?" and i can with confidence that one piece is from a high end boutique and the pants are from Target. I love a good bargain. That's one of the reasons I love Mina so much. They have trendy and classic pieces, but you're not going to go broke once you leave the store. Their pieces are always changing and affordable, and I love that. 

 

 

 

You were also were very involved in sports growing up, how has that affected who you are today?

Sports has definitely moulded who I am as a person today. Sports taught me discipline, it showed me that hard work pays off, and it exposed me to a whole different college experience. I played soccer since I was 7, and it eventually lead to me getting a scholarship to UTC. So all that hard work basically paid for my schooling. It was one of the best moments in my life, signing my contract with UTC. I also had these insane soccer practices I had to go to, and that started in middle school. I had to be on time, get up early, work my butt off, and that really made me a very dependable and disciplined individual. Sports totally helped give me the strong work ethic I have today.

 

 With all stuff you going, you always carry yourself with such grace and class. What's your secret weapon? How do you make it look so easy?

My secret weapon is this: The choice I'm making right now, would it make my family proud? Growing up, my father always told me, "Remember who are, and remember where you came from." I think that has always stuck with me throughout the years. If I have on an outfit that is maybe a little too short or a little too risque, I always ask myself if my parents would approve. Or if I'm ever about to be in a situation that might be questionable, I ask myself those questions. I want to make the people who love me proud, and I guess that's why I make it look so easy. 

 

 

 

Any beauty secrets?

I'm pretty crazy with skincare. I have tried everything in the book when it comes to moisturizers, creams, whatever. The best products by far, for me, have been all products from the Fresh line, and I put Oil of Olay on my neck and chest day and night. I'm not kidding, the Fresh creams, moisturizer, lip balm, everything are so amazing. I'm a huge fan. I have used the same powder for 4 years now, and I recommend it to everyone. It's Laura Mercier mineral powder with SPF, and I also use Guerline bronzer, and Josie Maran eye shadows. I have such sensitive skin, and these products are wonderful. Everyone should give them a shot!

 

 

 

 

Christmas is just around the corner, what is your all time favorite Christmas memory

My favorite memory would have to be when I was about 6 or 7. My little sister and I were in Kentucky visiting my grandparents and it was snowing outside. The snow was probably 6 inches, and I wanted to go outside soooo bad! My parents said no because it was late, so my sister and I snuck out the back door and ran around in the snow in our socks! I love that memory because we were so young and happy to be playing outside. It's so simple when you're little!

 

 

 

How did you hear about Mina Miami Beach?

I heard about Mina from my good friend Monica, who also happens to be one of the owners. Our boyfriends are best friends, and after we got to know each other a little better, she told me about her store and I have been obsessed ever since. They literally have clothing for every taste, and I think that directly reflects Monica and her two sisters. Each sister brings a different style to the table, so Mina really caters to everyone. It's an amazing boutique with a genius concept.

 

 

 

 

What is your favorite item in your closet.

My Michael Kors camel boots. I got them 5 years ago at Neiman Marcus. They were originally around $800 and I ended up paying $150 for them. I wasn't kidding when I said I love a good bargain! I wear them every season and get compliments each time I wear them. Definitely my favorite!

 

 

 

There are many girls out there that are trying to find there place in this world. what advice would you give them?

My advice is as simple as this: Take your time to figure life out. I can't emphasize that enough. Make mistakes and learn from them. I'm 27 years old and I still get confused sometimes! Girls always think they need to have everything figured out, but in reality, no one has everything figured out. As long as you do what you do, love yourself and surround yourself with positive people, everything else will fall into place. Don't get wrapped up with negativity and people who won't be there for the long haul. I wish someone had told me that when I was younger.

 

 

 Leave us with your favorite quote.

"There are a lot of sad stories out there. Do your best to make sure you're not one of them."

 -my dad

 

Photos By: Sarah Kenney