Today we are showcasing a Columbia, SC-based lifestyle blogger. Kristen Coleman Spearman is a South Carolina Belle who loves socializing in her city. Learn more about this southern belle and what inspires her.
Name: Kristen Coleman Spearman
Title: Lifestyle blogger
Company/Org: AKCESS
Hometown: Saluda, South Carolina
Alma Mater: University of South Carolina
Favorite thing about being southern: My favorite thing about being southern would definitely be the southern belle appeal that I have. My dainty persona mixed with my culturally on trend vibe makes me who I am. I am a southern girl at heart. Whether I am enjoying the delicacies of the south such as sweet tea, pearls, and college football; it’s sure that I will be sharing my southern accent! Any time I have the opportunity to travel outside of the Carolinas, I am bound to hear, “Where are you from?” I wouldn’t trade my accent for the world!
What is your personal life motto: “Be the reason someone smiles today!” I use this as my life motto each day because no matter what I may be going through, having a smile can change my day and others around me. You never know what others around you may be going through. Being positive and bring a smile can be the change someone needs. Creating opportunities to smile, laugh, and enjoy the moment may not heal all wrong that takes place, but it can definitely change the moment.
What is the most challenging professional obstacle you have had? The most challenging professional obstacle I have had to overcome would be hearing the answer, “No!” When I began blogging in December of 2016, I went through great lengths to begin my blog based on researched based decisions. I wanted to learn all I could and I wanted to soak it up from the best local and larger scale bloggers. Hearing, “No, your content won’t be a good fit,” or “No, we don’t do free promotion for beginning bloggers,” was disappointing. But it was those nos that forced me to prevail and nurture my idea and my vision. In hindsight, I am so proud of what I have had the opportunity to create!
Who is your favorite character on “Different World”? My favorite character on “Different World” would be Miss Whitley Gilbert hands down! I completely feel that she and I are relatable due to her upbringing that is portrayed on the show (2 parent homes are rare to come by), her lifestyle at Hillman College (prissy and sometimes snobbish), and her willingness to risk it all for love (I love you, Jay!)
If you could do any job, what would that be? I honestly and truly would stick to my position in blogging!! I would love to see AKCESS continue to flourish and grow a staff as my viewers grow! Sticking true to my first project is the greatest job that I can participate in.
Who do you wish you could meet? I would love to be able to meet First Lady Michelle Obama! My reason for wanting to meet her is because she is such a warm spirit. She portrays so much dignity and grace. Those traits are extremely contagious through her speeches, interviews, and even her social media platforms. She is a role model. I think what is most powerful about her is that she is relatable to all women regardless of race. Meeting her would be powerful and life changing, without a doubt.
What would your best friend say is the best/most annoying quality about yourself? I would say that my best friend would say that the best quality about me is that I am a free spirit. I am growing and learning and unapologetically me. She would probably say that my most annoying trait is that I pop my gum relentlessly. I apologize in advance because I do not even realize I do it!
What advice would you give your younger college self? To my younger self, I would say to go after what it is that makes you happy in life! Do not wait for time to pass nor leave room for the “what ifs” in life. Chase your dreams and act on your passion!
5 Places To Hang out in Columbia, SC
I am a social butterfly! Whether it’s a girls’ night out or date night with my husband, I am always down for a good, clean night out! My five go-to spots to eat and hangout in Columbia are as follows:
1. Bourbon
2. Cola’s
3. Public House on Main Street
4. Tsunami
5. Cantina 76
Where can we connect with you? You can connect with me directly on my blog at www.AKCESS.me or through e-mail at Kristen@Akcess.me. Of course, you can also connect with me through Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest! My user name is AKCESSME on all platforms.
Comments
Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
So excited to be apart of such an amazing and unique culture! You have such an awesome platform and I am so thankful and appreciative for this feature and opportunity!
Omg! I love this article! The pictures are gorgeous and show so much personality!
Kristen is such a unique and outgoing lady! Love following her blog.. Cola’s is the best restaurant to go to in Columbia, date night or GNO! Love this article!!
I absolutely LOVE Kristen’s spirit and following her blog! She is always a text away when I need fashion advice! I love the masterful way in which she writes that helps me to hear her voice in my head. She is such an inspiration for pursing her passion of sharing all things GLITZ, GLAM, and BOLD! I can’t wait to see where AKCESS takes her in the future! <3 <3 <3
Great Article! I Love what you are doing. Continue to answer your Why and allow God to use you to reach others!