The passion for my little darling venture only led to double the hard work, sleepless nights, long hours at work (but that's the fun part) and of course, watching it grow - one baby step at a time. Of course, we all know how it started as a simple blog and well, that part wasn't as difficult as the next twist. Turning a personal blog into a full fledged professional website came with it's own set of hurdles. In fact, a whole lot of them. But c'mon, who said the road to seeing your venture do well was gonna be easy? Clearly, there is no elevator to success. You have to take the stairs, go through the process of hardships, rough times and struggle, only to rise like a phoenix. Well, I still believe I am a work in process, and as I speak, we are continuously working to ensure the Dancebee's virtual world keeps on growing. But, patience is a key element of success. You certainly cannot expect things to take a turn overnight.

Looking back at our journey so far, I feel overwhelmed and blessed. There have been so many people who had our back and supported me at every step. Of course, it all started with the kind blessings and support of the almighty god and my wonderful parents. They encouraged me to take risks and follow my heart. And no, by blessings, I don't mean 'funding'. Those who come from simple, middle class homes will agree that there ain't no overnight financial funding and stardom for bright, young 'aam millenial' entrepreneurs. You gotta build your own empire and go through the grind of ups and downs. It was through my early use of social media that I learned I wasn't alone. Many other young women entrepreneurs across the globe faced similar struggles and emerged victorious. A big thank you to all those female role models who empowered girls my age and encouraged us to dream big.

Here's a shoutout to all our readers, followers, well wishers and supporters. The ones whose thoughtful messages and constant reminders of "We've got your back" encouraged us to challenge ourselves and go the extra mile. The ones who became a part of our HUGE digital family. The ones who stood by us and our work, come storm or sunshine. This anniversary month, we celebrate the spirit of our most beloved supporters - YOU. Here's to the journey so far, and a promise - To keep chasing dreams, follow our heart, stick to our ethics, raise the bar and keep working hard to take our baby venture a notch higher in the super cool new year ahead. Thank you for all the love!

And of course, this gratitude note would be incomplete without a special mention.  This one's for my wonderful team. Heartfelt gratitude to each and every member of the team, who have been an integral part of this beautiful journey. After all, team work makes dreamwork!


Love,
The Dancebee

Almost everyone knows how much I love birthdays. It is on this day that you were born, and two wonderful people in your life called you their 'little bundle of joy'. This year, my family and friends made sure it was a day week to remember. I am a big fan of surprises, and my friends almost made me cry with their awesomeness. My birthday week started off on an amazing note, with a 'Friends Day Out' at a suburban mall. From eating yummy food to having a blast at the gaming zone, we did it all and boy! It sure was good fun. I came back home with a smile that lasted through the week, and gifts that will stay with me for life.

Two days after the 'Early Birthday Party', my brother surprised me with something that I have been eyeing for a very, very long time. Yes, I am talking about the Apple iPad 4. Don't think I can thank him enough for this present, because I have been saving up for one since a really long time (student life, you see). As they say, sometimes happiness knocks on your door in the most unexpected ways.

I celebrated my birthday in the best way, ever. It was a special occasion, as Ram Navami fell on the same day and there were millions of people in Shirdi who were celebrating Lord Ram's birthday with great joy and elation. With birthday wishes pouring in from almost everywhere, beautiful darshan in the Saibaba samadhi temple, yummy cake, never ending Gujju thali, and a chance to sing Sai Bhajans in front of a huge audience; it truly was a day to remember.

But with all the happiness around, there were a few things that didn't work out the way I expected. My friends tried their best to keep me away from these 'bizarre turn of events', but the inevitable must happen and I got to know about it (mobile internet is to be blamed for that). My mood was all somber, and I was feeling low, that too on my Birthday. But then, I managed to come out of it. Life is a struggle and no matter how hard you work, you may not end up getting the reward that you deserve (in this case, it was not just me, but my friend too). There are ups and downs, and things go wrong. But in the end, what matters is that you gave your best shot at everything, with honesty and a clean heart.

It was during this time, that I realized, there are some people who will stand by you no matter what. 

Thank you so much for everything, friends (you know who you are). Each one of you made my birthday week special in some way or the other. But more than that, you guys stood by me when I needed someone the most. Last but not the least, a big bear hug to my family. Such awesome people, I tell you!

Outfit 1

Dress: Calvin Klein Jeans

Necklace: Zara

Footwear: Gift

Outfit 2

Kurta- churidaar: Global Desi

Jhumka: Borrowed from sister

On my lips: 

MAC ruby woo and Revlon Cherries in the Snow