This week we spoke to April Wagner,  a Bay-Area based lifestyle and fashion blogger. Read her full interview below! 

Tell us who you are!
Hello all! My name is April Wagner and I’m the editor of Champagne Colored Glasses, which serves as an outlet for creativity and inspiration. A word play on rose-colored glasses, my daily blog focuses on fashion and beauty as well as home and travel. My goal is to empower and give confidence to the every day woman while looking through a pair of champagne colored glasses. I currently reside in the Bay Area of California with my husband, Neil, and our four adorable children. I’ve owned a ballet school for the last 14 years and I’m a full time blogger.

What inspired you to start blogging?

What a great question! 5 years ago, in the midst of dealing with some serious medical issues, I turned to journaling. What started out as an online diary to vent my frustrations, fears and anxiety for the major surgeries I was about to endure, made me quickly realize how much I loved writing and helping people. While in my year long recovery from my 14 level spine surgeries, spinal cord injury and numerous complications, I will never forget the day I decided to embark on my new business as a fashion blogger. It was dinner time and I slowly made my way to the kitchen table with my clunky back brace and walker. As we all sat there eating our Chipotle burritos, I told my husband I wanted to start a fashion blog. He paused from devouring his burrito, to smile and say, “Okay”, and from that moment he has been supportive and my biggest cheerleader.

I like to think of my style as classic, feminine and confident. I like to mix patterns and colors and my love of dresses runs deep

What routines in your day-to-day have been influenced by your background in ballet?

My entire life has revolved around ballet in some way or another. It’s funny when I catch myself in first position or other poses as I do the dishes and chores. Every weekend, I put music on as I cook dinner and we have dance parties. It makes me so happy to see the love of dance in my children’s eyes.

How has dealing with scoliosis informed your style decisions and the way you approach design?

 Before surgery, my body was severely deformed. I had a rib hump on my left side and my ribs rested on my hip bones. I used fashion as a way to camouflage my body. Sharing that with followers made me much more confident and left nothing to hide. Once I had surgery, I began to pick clothing that not only made me feel good, but showed my back more. I am extremely proud of my scars!

My kids LOVE my peach crumble! During Fall, I switch out the peaches with apples. It’s delicious! I also make a mean pasta sauce and meatballs!

 I am right there with ya! Some days are going to be harder than others. I have tried to stay patient, understanding and encouraging. If the kids need a break, I give them a break. Hiding in the closet eating chocolate also helps….I kid, I kid. Just remember, eventually, life will get back to normal. Hang in there, until it does!

What are your favorite Mestiza pieces?

I love anything in their pretty porcelain print! I also utterly adore the Puff Puff Gown. It’s gorgeous and even has pockets! Honestly, I would love to line my entire closet with Mestiza NYs fabulous pieces!