Hello Darlings, Looking back on the past 7 years that I've been writing WithLoveGabrielle.com, I can't begin to fathom the idea how one decision led to this moment. Looking back on that evening at Robarts Library, as a 2nd year University of Toronto student I made a decision to write down my thoughts and publish them online. At the time it was such a foreign concept that I kept it a secret from family and friends for months. For my first article I wrote about Coco Chanel as it only seemed fitting that I start first with an individual who inspired this journey. Gabrielle is Chanel’s first name and therefore homage to an individual whose work ethic and determination I admire. That's how WithLoveGabrielle.com came into existence!

Looking back on that time the digital landscape looked very different from today. In fact a blog was a rarely heard of and street style and social media were just starting to come into their own. It was a medium that offered me an escape at a time I needed it most. Pursuing my specialist diploma in architecture and art history was rigorous; I also held a part time job as an assistant to one of my professors. A professor who made me realize what I wanted from my life; to become a strong and independent woman with a rewarding career and a beautiful family life. In my eyes she seemed to have figured it out, and I admired from a distance for years.

As years went by and opportunities presented themselves, I went on to pursue starting my own business after having the privilege of working at Sotheby’s auction house. Upon receiving a tiny government grant and great deal of mentorship from a summer program, there was no turning back. Luckily, I was invited to join Enterprise Toronto - the same program that gave me a start - as a mentor this year. Who could have thought that sharing my story would open doors to not only meeting incredible individuals but also pave a path to a career!? A career that I live and breathe but also one that challenges me every day.

I AM WEARING: JOA Dress // Vince Leather and Wool Coat // Rag & Bone Clutch // Hermes Clic Clac Cuff // La Baccarina Boots — *I AM WEARING:* *JOA* *Dress //* *Vince* *Leather and Wool Coat //* *Rag & Bone* *Clutch //* *Hermes* *Clic Clac Cuff //* *La Baccarina* *Boots*

So, what’s next? Aside from having backing of an angel investor whose vision has supported mine, we’ve launched TheYouthSociety.com and now in the process of launching a social media agency. As I embark on this new journey, I also hope to evolve WLG in a same direction as I do as an individual.

As some may have noticed, I have not written since October and part of the reason is I needed to refocus myself as I felt that I was losing my direction. After 1,033 articles I needed a mone time to step back and reevaluate. So with December and the new year, I’m really excited to take on my 8th year with a fresh start and a new direction. Can’t wait to share it with you, both the highs and the lows!

Pursuing a dream is a lot easier in theory! Like they say, dreams don't work unless you do. I wanted to share my story as I hope that it would give a push to anyone who questions whether to do it. While my story is still a work in progress and one that has been filled with long nights of crying and many moment of wanting to quit, I have no regrets. My work has been a source of growth, strength and many times an escape! As the New Year is upon us, and I return to writing regularly please never hesitate to reach out to me with any questions....just leave a quick note below and I’ll be more than glad to answer any questions or requests. Thank you for sharing these past few minutes with me!

With Love...

Marta

Photos by Arnold Lan