Happy New Year, y’all!

Lord have mercy, I can’t believe it is 2013 already...

For me, the first of the year is a time to dust off the sparkles from NYE, renew my membership at the gym, reminisce on all the good times, learn from all the not so good times, and plan my new beginnings accordingly.

I personally don’t believe in the whole “wiping your slate clean” nonsense... rather, I believe you get a whole new slate to work with entirely. Your old slates are part of who you are- they hold all of your life’s lessons, mistakes, and victories. If your slate was constantly being wiped clean, you wouldn’t be the person you are today!

I’ve grown and learned more this year than any other. So much so, I bet my slate from 2012 was a mile long... To say it’s been rough would be an understatement. As Sir Edmund Burke put it, “Those who do not know history's mistakes are doomed to repeat them.” I guess you could say I’ll be keeping the footnotes from my 2012 slate for quick reference in 2013, just in case.

Despite my long list of mistakes and missteps, I can’t help but smile when I think about what Kiss My Southern Sass has become. From a humble start in late March of 2012 using gas money from my parents, sweat, and a lot of tears to closing the year with over 20 southern, sassy products and the best sales team a girl could ask for, I have every reason to smile. We’ve had our rough patches... and we still don’t have everything down pat, but Rome wasn’t built in a day and I have learned to accept that this year as well. I’ve never been more thankful in my life- my dream is coming true.

I laugh out loud (Yep, I actually LOL) when I think about all the times I spent with the craziest, classiest ladies and gents this side of the Mason Dixon; I fondly refer to them as my best friends. If I didn’t think they’d kill me/we’d be sent to jail, I’d share them all with you right now... but I’d doubt you’d want to read a couple hundred pages on drunken schemes, boy stalking, and Sorority bootcamp, so I’ll save you the trouble. Let’s just say that Georgia/Florida was legendary, Counterpoint music festival was unbelievable, Luke Bryan was sexy as always, and Spring break is still a little fuzzy. They’ve saved my southern sass more than once and I don’t know what I would do without them. I’ve never been so close to a group of people in my life, and for that I am beyond thankful.

This was also the year I became friends with my parents. Yup, it happened. Everyone said it eventually would, and I’m hear to corroborate: It does. They’ve always thought I was funny... I mean, come on. But this year, I actually started laughing at their jokes, too. I don’t know if that means I qualify for my senior discount at Kroger now or what, but I much prefer our relationship now over the door slamming, lesson teaching, “I’m doing what’s best for you” stuff from high school years’ past. Sipping a glass of wine in the kitchen watching momma cook and grabbing a beer and knocking the tennis ball around with dad sounds like the perfect Saturday afternoon to me. I look forward to going home every chance I get and when it’s been a while, I miss them so badly my heart hurts. Beware, youngins. You think you’re right and their wrong- but you are probably wrong. You might be ready to move out already, but that too shall pass. You are who you are because of them: respect them, love them, and friendship will follow.

Oh, and I even like my little brother now, too. That was even more shocking than the parents thing. He’s a freshman in college now, so he obviously thinks he is the smartest guy out there... but he actually is one of the smartest people I know, and I’m big enough to admit it now. Can I still beat his butt in anything and everything? Yes. But that is beside the point. He still thinks I’m a little on the annoying side- but I doubt that will fade with age. We’ve talked about being the crazy aunt and uncle every kid wants and planned our multibillion dollar futures- and I gotta say, he’s always in mine. So glad I never actually sold him when I tried.

I also found the sun to my sky and became a happy, loving girlfriend in 2012. LOL. (Yep, I just laughed out loud, again.) Just kidding, folks. Kiss My Southern Sass is as single as ever. I did learn a lot about love this year, though. After being a die hard single lady for three wild years, I finally felt a twinge in my heart... and for someone I never thought I would. It was more than a twinge if you ask my friends. They say he was all I would talk about- that I ate, drank, and slept this boy. I don’t know if I agree with that per say.... but I did think about him a lot. I’ve never been more confused by an individual in my life, that’s for sure. While I can’t say I’m still over the moon for him, I can say I still love him to the moon and back. He’s one of my best friends and I wouldn’t have it any other way. On that note, I will also say that life would be a whole lot easier if everyone said what they really thought; so I challenge you all to speak your minds. You can’t expect people to know what you’re thinking just like you can’t assume you know what other people are thinking... Just sayin. There are so many handsome and hilarious boys out there who actually give a damn, and this experience taught me to keep my heart open, despite my underlying fears of commitment, rejection, and abandonment... deep, I know. I can unfortunately say I have been 100% closed off, not only in 2012, but for a few slates now.... but in 2013, that will change. I have so much love to give- it’s about time I stop spoiling myself and find a man who loves me as much as I do.

My new years resolution list is pretty lengthy, but I cannot wait to get started. This is going to be my best slate yet. I challenge all of you to reflect on 2012 and figure out all the ways, no matter how big or small, you can improve the quality of your slate this year. Make mistakes, take risks, fall in love, and keep an open mind... and lose that extra Christmas cookie weight, too.

I wish you the best of luck in 2013- Lord knows I need some too. We can do this, y’all!

2013: Bring. It. On.

We’re ready for ya.

XOXO,

Kiss My Southern Sass

PS. To those of you who tried to convince me the world was definitely going to end in 2012: I told ya so. (Sorry, had to.)

Belles and beaus,

After giving thanks for family, friends, Merica, and the south this beautiful holiday- it’s finally the day we’ve all been waiting for: Cyber Monday. Any holiday dedicated to shopping is okay in my book- and here at Kiss My Southern Sass, we are celebrating accordingly.

If you were catching up on your beauty sleep last night around midnight, then you missed our new product release. (You can check out our two new classy, sassy products in the KMSS Webstore: http://kissmysouthernsass.com/services.html.)

This morning at 10 a.m. our 1st Annual KMSS Cyber Monday Sale began! Yep, that’s right. Six amazing KMSS deals going on ALL DAY! Click the ‘On Sale’ tab in the KMSS Webstore to shop til you drop.

Thirsty for more KMSS? Check the webstore at 5 pm for KMSS Happy Hour! Special deals til 6 pm.

Now, the moment I’ve been waiting for all day... the big announcement.

As I’m sure y’all have heard- it takes about a lifetime and a half to get your merchandise shipped to you from our Webstore. We’re not a scam, we’re not stealing your money... we are simply not enough people.

I am a 20 year old junior at the University of Georgia, running a company, and living my dream... out of my apartment I live in with 2 roommates while trying to study and graduate on time.

Yes, it’s as hard as it sounds.

I’m not asking you to pity me and I’m not trying to make excuses- rather, I am trying to explain why things have been moving so slowly. It breaks my heart every time I receive a complaint- I want you to have your order more than anyone!

However, I am fully aware that if our merchandise, no matter how cute it is, can’t get to the customer in a timely manner, then it doesn’t really matter how cute it was in the first place.

Benjamin Franklin put it simply, “It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it."

Here at KMSS, we’re applying these wise words to our business and are taking the steps to rebuild our reputation and regain your trust.

So, what’s the solution? How are we going to fix this problem that has been looming over us these past few rough months?

Kiss My Southern Sass has officially signed a contract with an order fulfillment company. What does that mean? Instead of staying up all night folding t shirts and addressing envelopes, I will be concerned with taking care of Y’ALL. I will be working to spread KMSS and improve our customer service, and most importantly, earn your trust back.

The order processing, packaging, and postage will all be taken care of by shipping experts in a plant in Michigan- that's right, it's above the Mason Dixon line. However, I can deal with these northerners since they will be working around the clock to catch us up and keep us moving forward.

It is our New Year’s Resolution here at KMSS to guarantee 7 business day turnarounds for all orders placed via the Webstore. With our new contract, this is finally a possibility. It is our New Year’s Resolution to serve you. It is our New Year’s Resolution to remind you why you’re proud to be from the south.

We will have our new shipping method up and running starting on Dec 1. If you are waiting on an order you have already placed, please know- it is coming!  I sincerely apologize for the wait so far, and hope we have not lost you as a customer for life. I would like to thank you for believing in KMSS in the beginning and staying by our side for this long.

If you have recently placed an order- know we will do whatever it takes to make your experience with us amazing. Please work with us while we continue to learn and improve.

So excited to take these next steps with y’all- these boots were made for walkin’, not standin’ still, afterall.

Stay sassy, stay classy.

XOXO,

Kiss My Southern Sass

MTV sitcoms, obnoxious teen movies, and priceless 90’s television shows all depict college the same way. The buildings have columns and the professors write on chalkboards. Students experiment with drugs and sex and the under dog always wins the football game. It wouldn’t be college without the bible beaters reading scripture in the quad or bus drivers that know everyone’s name. There’s always the overly nerdy chemistry majors, the jerky business school wannabes, the earthy drama kids- but almost always, the villain is an airheaded, superficial sorority girl fresh from a “frat party.” Am I right? I know.

I went into recruitment (at the time, I referred to it as ‘rush’) like most, as a freshman. I knew only what I had learned from those movies and TV shows... and what I read on GreekRank.com- so nothing of value. I had a handful of Greek letters memorized and saw House Bunny twice in theaters... That was it. Nervous was an understatement- I had absolutely no idea what to really expect.

My momma and aunts all worked their tails off in nursing school, a sisterhood in itself. My father and uncles learned and served at the United States Military Academy, finding brotherhood in the Corps of Cadets. However, by Panhellenic definition, I am the first Greek in my family.

Very long and emotional story short, I chose not to finish the recruitment process as a freshman and waited until my sophomore year to accept a bid.

During this year, I learned that all of the stereotypes I had grown to know were wrong. Well, mostly. Sure, you might have a supernerd or three in each class. Obviously, you will come across the occasional frat douche every now and again. However, I’ve seen just as many successful Pharmacy students drunk downtown as I have struggling Psychology majors... so I think it’s fairly important to let you know now- nothing will be exactly as you expect.

That’s the best part about college, you never know who or what is going to surprise you. A good rule of thumb for college and a great rule of thumb for life? Don't believe everything you hear. There are the token feisty girls in every sorority, but no one even comes close to rivaling the fictional Rachel of Sydney White or Rebecca Logan from ABC Family's Greek. Moral of the story? Don't be nervous- 99% of these girls are dying to be your friend and kill you with kindness. Let them!

Now, I’m not going to tell you how many recs you should get. I’m not going to tell you how to lose 5 pounds fast. I’m not going to tell you how to write a resume.

I’m simply going to tell you what I wish I had known the first time round.

Here we go....

1. BRING A HAND FAN.

Sounds like a minor detail, but I assure you, you will make more friends in 10 minutes with this fan in the summer heat than you will the entire time you are in college. Use it to meet girls in your group, on your bus, or in your line in front of the houses. I promise- you’ll have a stampede of wedges coming your way. Maybe you’ll meet the girls you’ll eat lunch with during break? Dinner with after your long day? Go with to the gym later? You never know. Don’t forget extra batteries in your purse!

2. Keep an open mind.

This should probably be number 1.... but I literally cannot stress the hand fan enough.

In all seriousness though, this is the big one. This is, in fact, the reason I had such a terrible experience the first time through. I had other people’s opinions voiced so strongly in my mind that I couldn’t recognize what impressions were mine and what were theirs.

My biggest piece of advice? Judge a house on how it makes you feel.

Are you always going to be worried about if your hair is frizzing? Holding it’s curl? Are you going to be overwhelmed by the emphasis on involvement? By the study hours? Can you see yourself staying up all night laughing, eating pizza you’ll regret, and telling secrets you swore you wouldn’t? Can you picture inviting your parents to visit for Parent’s Weekend and introducing them to the girls all around you?

The questions are different for everyone- but the main thing you need to remember is this: You don’t live with this decision for 4 years, sisterhood is for life. Don’t make a lifetime commitment based on someone who doesn’t have to live with it. Sounds cheesy, but stay true to you... and don’t be a letter snob- who know’s what house you’ll wind up falling in love with.

3. Don’t complain!

People always joke about bringing up the weather in awkward situations... that, unfortunately, was my reality my first time going through recruitment. I would get so nervous to just be myself that I went straight to the most obvious thing we had in common- the heat.

It was sweltering. The girls in the houses had air conditioning and even they were sweating. I figured misery likes company, right? Later in the day, when my weather spiel was getting old, I’d mix it up and talk about how it had been a long day and how ready I was for a nap. I knew whoever I’d talk to would be just as ready to conk out, so why not let her know she’s not alone?

I’ll tell you why: no one wants to hear it. They’re busting their butts singing songs that will be stuck in their heads for years trying to impress you. They want you to tell them all about yourself and what you are interested in. In turn, they want to tell you what they're interested in and why they think you would love their sisterhood. They want you to ask them questions and tell them what you’re looking for in a sorority.

Want to know what I would have said to me back then? “I already know your hot- I’m sweating through my Lilly as we speak. I know you’re tired- I felt my eyes drooping during that last song we screamed. Tell me MORE.”

From the other side of the fence, after having a conversation with a girl, I want to be excited to tell people a little about them. Hopefully she got me thinking about a million things other than how hot and tired she was. Likewise, I would hope to send her off thinking about how amazing my sisterhood is, not how good the air conditioning on the bus is going to feel.

Like me, you might have thought these sort of attempts at being ‘real’ are relatable- but in all reality, you’re actually just making fake small talk.

Don’t worry though- the girls you will be talking to WANT to talk with you and will make the conversation happen. Just worry about being yourself as much as you can in the few minutes you have with each one. Shine!

4. Dress like momma is going to inspect.

Simply, don’t be sloppy or slutty. (General rule for life, not just recruitment.)

A few random pieces of advice to keep you looking top notch?

After combing, straightening, or curling those gorgeous locks, hairspray them in place- after walking through the heat all day, you’ll be happy you did.

Iron your dress- YES, it needs it. NO, you cannot use your hair straightener.

Wear a purse that matches or don’t wear one at all. (If it doesn’t compliment, it will only take the focus away from your cute outfit.)

Unless specified, save your black for the last day and your white for bid day- spice up the rest of the week with tons of color. You’ll be sure to pop out of the crowd.

Flats are fine. Wedges are fine. Heels are fine. Wedges and heels are NOT fine if they are that ‘in between height.’ You know what I’m talking about. If age thirteen could be transformed into a shoe- this would be it. Just plain awkward. Go big or go home, no pain, no gain- however you want to put it.... just put your big girl shoes on and leave the middle school kicks at home.

Caking on the make up is a no- no. If someone has to strain their eyes to see yours through all the mascara and eyeliner, something is wrong. Let your natural beauty be the spotlight!

Don’t wear anything that wouldn’t pass your high school dress code. I’m not talking about the stupid spaghetti strap rule. (Seriously, did they think shoulders were THAT distracting?) I’m talking skirt/dress length. DO NOT follow the essay rule- long enough to cover everything but short enough to keep it interesting. No, no, no. Keep it long enough to wear in front of momma without having to pull it down every 5 seconds. Don’t forget, you’re not going downtown- you’re making a first impression.

Save your obnoxious nail polish for the next band party. I love spunky colors more than anyone- but trust me, leave the neon at home and stick with nude, light pink, or the classic french.

Don’t over accessorize. Simplicity is classy. Stick with some standard pearls in your ears or on your neck. Don’t over do it- save all your colorful, chunky jewelry for the 80’s social you’ll undoubtedly have once you’re a sister!

You might think all these tips are pretty self explanatory... or I may have just given you a checklist of things to do before recruitment week. Regardless, all of these tips are ones I wish I had known beforehand and hope can help you belles out there with less than a clue about what you’re getting into.

 There are a million other things I could tell you- but what fun would it be if I spoiled everything? Some of these tips might benefit you, and some of them you might completely ignore... I'm Just Sayin'.

Stick with it, smile big, and be yourself. It’s worth it!

Good luck and stay classy!

XOXO,

Kiss My Southern Sass

PS. Don’t forget to check out my new recruitment line! Perfect for all you new/future Bigs and Littles!

Happy Mother’s Day, y’all!

Today is a day to celebrate- whether you’re a loving mother, a grateful child, or you’re just excited you made it another year without actually being a mother. Yes, today is a day to raise our glasses to the women who have molded us into the people we are today. I mean, I wouldn’t be KissMySthrnSass without the influence from my hell raisin’, boiled peanut eating, chardonnay sippin’, Bulldawg lovin, sweet and sassy momma. She’s the strongest, sweetest, smartest woman I know.

To honor her today, I’d like to share some of her easiest southern recipes! (College students- listen up!)

Momma is a Georgia girl, born and raised, and I am her little Georgia peach. So, it only seems appropriate to feature her...

Spicy Peach Hot Wings!

Ingredients:

- Peanut oil, for frying
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
3 lbs chicken wings
1/2 stick butter
2 cloves of chopped garlic
1/2 cup peach preserves
1/4 cup Tabasco
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions:
Mix the salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder together in a bowl
Add chicken wings and toss to coat
Set this to the side to allow wings to soak in seasonings
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat with the garlic
Stir in peach preserves, hot sauce, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Cook until syrupy and thick (about 5 minutes). Transfer to a large bowl.
Grill your wings 8-10 minutes per side.
Add the grilled wings to the large bowl of sauce and toss until the wings are well coated.
Serve and enjoy!

Like I said, we are Georgia girls- so Momma’s next easy southern recipe showcases a native Georgia ingredient...

Vidalia Onion Dip!

Ingredients:
1 cup chopped Vidalia onion
1 cup grated swiss cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
1/4-1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4-1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
Paprika to sprinkle on top

Directions:
Mix everything, but the paprika, in a bowl. Put in a dish sprayed with Pam. (Momma usually doubles or triples the recipe and puts it in a dish that is 1 inch deep so it gets browner on top.) Cook about 30 minutes at 350 degrees. (It should be brown around the edges). Serve with wheat thins, pita chips, or your favorite cracker!

There ya have it! Now you have no excuse not to cook for your momma on her special day. After all the meals she has cooked for you, she definitely deserves it.

Momma has about 100 million recipes that I am dying to share, so keep your eyes open for new posts!

XOXO,
KissMySthrnSass