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Hannah just graduated this past weekend, so I’m hijacking the Wednesday post spot. Graduation weekend is a marathon, not a sprint, and you need a full week to fully recover from the smiling and regurgitation of your post-graduation plans. I’m still not okay. Today’s post is all about saving…. to hopefully spend. I’m a shopper, but I also love high-quality products that sometimes come with a hefty price tag. I’ve talked a lot about my interest in learning more about finances, but almost every financial literacy seminar I’ve been to has talked about the importance of savings accounts. One rep said she has 4 different accounts. HOLY.
I have two separate accounts that I use for savings; today I’m talking about the one that I use to save up for specific goals. It’s big transition time for basically all the grads. Most of my friends are balancing moving to major cities, proposals, and starting rigorous new programs— and sometimes a combination of those. My apartment has been furnished for the past two years and so I had a limited idea of how much furniture would actually cost me; you can imagine my dismay.
There’s a huge misconception in the blogging world that we can just purchase things whenever we want them without having to wait, save, or weigh our options. Mass consumerism is a curse. Personally, I think out purchases over $50 for at least a month before I actually go through with them. Except for shoes—I definitely just buy the shoes. Anyway, I always have new items on my radar so today I’m sharing what’s currently on there.
1. AirPods
This past semester, my Beats died out on me. I mean they literally snapped in half on one side. They were my favorite things and got me through 2.5 years of college. For a while, I thought that I would buy another pair of Beats since I knew I loved them A TON. But, everyone raves about the AirPods. I’m more inclined to pick these up because they seem to be more realistic when it comes to bulkiness. My Beats are pretty portable but still take up a lot of space. I’m trying to downsize and minimize in most aspects of my life right now, so I felt that these might be the better way to go.
2. A Nice Parka
I’m trying not to be annoying with the whole I’m moving thing, but it’s impacting all my planning for the next few months. I’m going from a turbulent seasonal climate to a turbulent seasonal climate with a kick a** winter. I’m currently looking to stock up on winter accessories and essentials. From gloves [which are super expensive for some reason] to hats & scarves, I want it all. The biggest purchase for me will be a new past the knee Parka. I have my eyes on the North Face one here. Any suggestions from my Northeastern friends would be greatly appreciated.
3. 50mm f/1.8 NIKKOR Lens
We also all know that I’ve been booking a lot of clients with graduation season. Now that it’s all winding down and I have the summer to do what I want, I’d really love to start playing around with a new lens. I thought a lot about splurging on a SIGMA Art lens with the money I made this past season, but I’d rather use the money on plane tickets or travel expenses. I originally opted for the 35mm last summer because it seemed a little more multipurpose. The 50mm would be a dedicated portrait lens. Other items on my photography list include a zoom lens with a lower aperture for traveling and a Canon G7X Mark II vlog camera because I would really love to document my move and time in NYC.
4. A Comforter Set
Another big girl purchase to be made, for my big girl life. I’ve had my current comforter set for the past two years and I think with a change in lifestyle comes a change in bedspread — or something like that. I’ve recently been drawn to things that are light and dainty, but also have some sass to them. I’ve always loved a girly aesthetic when it comes to bedding. I also plan on adding more glam touches with other decor pieces.
5. Designer Cross Body
My crossbody has had a good life, but college has also been tough on her. I have loved using my Rebecca Minkoff crossbody in the camel color for almost three years now. I’ve gone back and forth about buying the same exact style or switching up design or even switching designers all together. I’d probably go with a Tory Burch one if I switch. I definitely need to invest in a new one before the fall. I also am always drawn to brown accessories so I’ll probably stick to that color scheme.
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Okay, so that is my list of things I’m saving up for! Of course, it extends past this but these are the most important items that I need to be saving up for in the near future. Summer is almost here [even though it already feels like it] and I can’t wait. I have a ton of small things to prep before August, so I’m going to be busier than ever between working, blogging, and hanging out with friends. What are your plans for the summer and how are you saving that summer job money? I usually have automatic deposits every month to make sure I put money away.
Keep on keepin’ on.