Thank you for helping me “Make it in Manhattan”

By: Caroline Vazzana 

Tomorrow is the big day. The day I’ve been waiting for since 2015. Tomorrow, my first book will be released. As many of you know, because of my many Instagram posts, reminders, and count downs (you could say I’m just a little excited) my first book Making it in Manhattan: The Beginner’s Guide to Surviving and Thriving in the World of Fashion is finally being released. In all honesty, writing a book and getting it published wasn’t something I ever thought I’d be able to achieve. It felt so far out of reach, like I was literally reaching for the stars. But, like many significant moments in my career, like landing my first job at Teen Vogue, or styling my first celebrities for the MTV Video Music Awards, I realized after achieving these things that anything really is possible. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “wow, way to be incredibly cliché, Caroline” but I’m being very serious. No dream is too big, and nothing is that far out of reach. With the proper planning and hard work, your dreams are much closer than you think. Below, I’m answering a few questions about my upcoming book, the writing process, and what you can expect! 

So, why did I start writing “Making it in Manhattan”?

It was right after I had left my first job at Teen Vogue and started my second job at InStyle. It was October of 2015, and I could remember thinking that I didn’t want to forget all of the cool, exciting and somewhat jaw-dropping things that had been happening to me. I was finally working at some of fashion’s biggest publications, something I had dreamed of doing my entire life. So, I started writing things down!

When I was in college, I had to keep a journal during all of my internships. I loved those journals because at the end of each summer I could go back and remember everything I’d been through - the ups and the downs - and reflect back on how much I had grown and changed. So, I started this project sort of like a journal. Before I knew it, I had several “chapters” and decided to approach literary agents to see what they thought. After countless emails and several rejections, I finally heard back from one literary agent who loved my idea and wanted to support! 

What I’ve realized with so many things in life is that all it takes is one person to believe in you for your dream to become a reality! 

How did I find time to write the book?

Funny enough, I started writing my book in the notes app on my iPhone (the same way I started writing this story now, actually). I often feel like some of my best work is written on my phone because there’s not as much pressure as sitting down in front of a big computer screen and blank page.

Since I started writing on my iPhone that meant I could pretty much write anywhere! I would write during my commute every single morning, at night before I went to bed, or even on line while waiting to get lunch! Then on the weekends, I would email myself everything I had written during the week and I would go over, edit it, and form it into chapters! 

What can we expect and what is your favorite part?

Making It In Manhattan is written in a very conversational style, like a journal, or as if you were talking to a best friend or big sister! I wanted you guys who are all just starting out in your careers to feel as though you had someone or something to turn to for advice! Someone who wouldn’t judge you and would welcome you with open arms. I could remember what it was like when I was first starting out and I knew absolutely no one. So I wanted to create a fun guidebook for all of the aspiring fashionistas/fashionistos! 

I love every part of the book, but one of my favorite chapters is probably Chapter 11, “The Sneak Attack.” I can’t give away any spoilers, but I promise - you’ll love it! 

What’s next? 

A lot of people keep asking me, so, what’s next? Right now, I really want to enjoy this ride and this journey of the launch of my first book! I want to be present and in the moment. I have a lot of fun book tour events coming up and things for you guys to attend and be part of, which I’m so excited about! So I guess you could say my next move is helping Making It In Manhattan make it’s debut in Manhattan! 

I cannot thank you all enough for your love, support, and encouragement of this project! I’m not going to lie, writing a book is very scary. You’re opening yourself up and letting people all the way into your world, and hoping they love it as much as you do! I truly cannot wait to hear and see what you guys think of it, so make sure to share your snaps with #MakingItInManhattan on Instagram and tag me @cvazzana and @makingmanhattanofficial. If you absolutely love it, you can also leave me a review on Amazon here

And if you haven’t ordered your copy yet, no need to worry! You can order your copy here!

Thank you again for all of your love & support! 

XO

Caroline 

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