Hey VF readers! Thanks for visiting my blog. Many people have been asking for more info so read below and feel free to email me with any questions!

Q) Why did you decide to start writing Vanilla Fringe?
A)First of all, I have always loved fashion. Whether I am helping my girlfriends accessorize for a date or shopping at the mall alone, I have always been drawn to artsy pieces or a fabulously merchandised boutique. My mom worked for a designer clothing line when I was younger, so growing up around clothing and patterns played a big part in my love for fashion. Second of all, I am one of those individuals who lives to eat (not eats to live). And although I am not a very picky eater, I do appreciate an amazing meal and a great atmosphere. Vanilla Fringe was a way to share my everyday life with my friends and family, or anyone else who needed new ideas or a fun website to visit.

Q) Who takes your pictures?
A) My sister, myself, my boyfriend, my roommates or my mom take my pictures. Yes, pretty much whoever I can get my hands on that day! I recently bought a new camera, so as long as I am just moving around, the shots turn out pretty crisp. Thank you guys, I wouldn't be able to have this blog without you!

Q) What is your full-time job?
A) I work as a sports and entertainment multi-media journalist. Yes, it is true, no real relation to fashion or food, but I am lucky I can now make these true passions of mine my new hobby.

Q) How do you pick the restaurants you feature on Fresh Fringe?
A) I obviously cannot tell you how the food is until I try it, so I tend to base my initial selection on reviews and atmosphere. A fancy restaurant with the best steak in town will not make the cut. I would much rather visit a hole-in-the-wall bar with homemade recipes and personality. Not only is the menu typically more unique, but it makes for better photos and an entertaining staff. Unless otherwise noted in the blog article, the dishes I make are recipes I throw together on my own. I am not a cook. I am just learning how to be domestic in the kitchen, but I feel like most girls my age are in the same boat. An easy, healthy recipe is much more appealing than a fancy, time-consuming dish. I can go out to eat for those. I am always taking suggestions for new restaurants to try either in Chicago or elsewhere. Please shoot me an email if you know of a place I MUST try!

Q) How would you describe your style?
A) Random! I love vintage pieces, I love designer pieces, and I love low-budget pieces. So I try to combine all of these things and make each post different. I try to show different ways to wear new pieces I have in my closet, hence the "as seen here, here and here" in the captions. I tend to gravitate towards the boho look, but jeans and a tee shirt or a glammed up dress pant is never out of the question.

Enjoy! XO -Shae