The 'Simply Sassy Style' Of Buying Two Toyota’s At Once
A few months ago, I was sitting with my oldest son at a Toyota dealership, leasing him a Prius to use while attending medical school, when my daughter called me frantically. “Mom,” she said, “my car broke down again.”
I almost hit the floor. It had been the third time in six months that her Subaru failed to live up to its reputation. Granted, we bought it as a “used” vehicle, but even so; I had not expected the pain nor expense doing so would ultimately cost me. Frustated to my core, I turned to the Toyota sales agent that very same minute and calmly stated, “I need to lease a Camry too.”
It was a good day for him and, frankly, for the rest of us also. Mom would finally achieve "piece of mind" and my kids would receive safe, stylish, and smart vehicles to drive. The entire escapade is the reason I couldn’t help but delight in lifestyle influencer Dawn Latrice Gibson-Thigpen’s blog Simply Sassy Style.
Dawn has a knack for merging her love for fashion and stylish cars into one really informative, sexy blog that appeals just as much to my 22 year-old, Camry-driving daughter as it does me. Needless to say, I turned her onto Simply Sassy Style as well and I recommend you do the same in your own home. It's Vogue plus wheels and then some.
What is your full name?
It's a long one! LOL! Dawn Latrice Gibson-Thigpen.
Briefly describe you and your life, including where you live, children (if any), and whatever else you would like to share?
I would describe myself as energetic and enthusiastic. I feel like my life is pretty unconventional. Simply because I love to drive fast cars and I write a lifestyle blog that focuses on fashion and the automotive industry from a fashionable woman’s point of view. Additionally, I love Mike and Frankie from American Pickers. I love the General Lee just as much as I love the Duke boys, and I make it a point to binge watch my favorite TV shows at least once a week.
If you were asked to describe yourself in one word, what would that word be?
Sassy...
What is your personal mantra?
That confidence is 'key' at every point in your life. I know sometimes we can be our own worst enemy, but you just have to keep pushing forward and know that God is right there with you, holding you up and keep you strong.
Share the name of your blog as well as the date it was launched.
Simply Sassy Style. To be honest, I can't remember the exact month, but the year is 2011.
Explain what compelled you to begin blogging.
I started blogging when I moved to South Florida from Michigan. I was amazed at how different the two places were and I wanted a way to express myself and share my new life with new and old friends.
Share with us the primary focus of your blog and what you hope to accomplish through it.
The primary focus of my blog is ''fashion & stylish vehicles''. One of my goals is to hopefully assist in building the confidence of women when it comes to their position in the automotive world. A lot of people, both men and women, don't realize that 85% of purchases and purchasing influence are made by women.
List any awards you may have won.
I won the Liebster Award (2013), Sisterhood Of The World Bloggers Award (2014), and The Very Inspiring Blog Award (2014).
Which social media outlet works best for your public relations/marketing efforts?
Facebook and Twitter.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to anyone interested in beginning a blog?
I have two:
1. Research, research, research. When I started, I just jumped 'right in' without doing one ounce of research. I feel like I'd be a lot farther today had I done the proper research.
2. Stay true to yourself. I know it can be hard sometimes, especially in this day and age but staying true to you is VERY IMPORTANT!
Share some names of favorite blogs you follow.
Mimi G. Style, Chic Stylista, All Things Fadra, Style By Lynsee, Manny Mua (YouTuber)
Beyond being a blogger, are you an entrepreneur, professional or business owner? If so, please explain.
I would say both an entrepreneur and a professional.
Professional: A lot of people don't know this but until recently, I worked for HP for 15 years.
Entrepreneur/Professional: I have always had a side hustle, be it the blog, selling shoes/handbags on my own personal website or selling Mary Kay.
Share a social cause or cause-based organization close to your heart.
I support Habitat for Humanity.
When all is said and done, how do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as kind, fair and loved to drive awesome vehicles.
I guess automobile innovation isn’t just about cars anymore. Blogs too, by the looks of it, beginning with
Simple Sassy Style. By the way, the Prius and the Camry...both working fine!!!! Makes me think, I may too have to upgrade soon. No need to recommend where to go. Toyota and me, we have each other on speed-dial.