Carly Heitlinger-Riordan has built a vibrant platform of inspiration through her blog, CARLY. What began in 2008 as a personal outlet during her freshman year at Georgetown University has blossomed into a trusted lifestyle resource for women navigating the many stages of life. From parenting tips to style advice, Riordan uses her blog and social media platforms to share candid reflections, relatable anecdotes, and timeless inspiration.
“I started my blog as a way to express myself,” Riordan recalls. “It was the perfect creative outlet during a tough transition, and over time, it evolved into something much bigger—a reflection of my life and the community around me.”
One post, written during her senior year of college, captures her journey: she vented about the pressures of looming adulthood, a moment that resonated with many readers and exemplified her raw, relatable voice.
Originally intended as a diary-like space, CARLY struck a chord with readers who saw themselves in Riordan’s words. Her early posts detailed her life as a college student-athlete, sharing her struggles and triumphs alongside what she was wearing, reading, or exploring. As her life evolved, so did her blog.
A Life Rooted in New Jersey
Now based in Madison, New Jersey, Riordan balances life as a mom to two sons, wife, and entrepreneur. Having grown up in Florida and later lived in Connecticut and New York, Riordan says she has embraced her life in New Jersey.
“I never envisioned myself living here, but I truly couldn’t love it more,” she says. “Madison is such a wonderful place to raise kids. The sense of community and the incredible women I’ve met have made it feel like home.”
Her connection to her community shines through in her content, which often highlights the joys of small-town living. Whether she’s sharing her favorite local spots, documenting her sons’ adventures, or hosting events with fellow moms, her love for New Jersey is evident.
The Joy of Hobbies
As a mother and business owner, Riordan emphasizes the importance of hobbies. “Hobbies help us step away from the noise,” she explains. “They offer a creative outlet that’s not tied to work or external expectations. For me, needlepoint has been a way to relax and create something tangible with my hands.”
Her love for needlepoint began before the pandemic and has since become a central part of her life, inspiring others to explore hobbies of their own. “There’s something special about making something with your hands,” she reflects. “It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to bring you joy.”
Her passion for hobbies also extends to her book club, which she started as a separate Instagram channel. “Books were my company during some challenging times,” she shares. “Now, I use my book-focused Instagram to connect with readers and authors. It’s amazing to see how Bookstagram and BookTok are changing the publishing world.”
Authentic Motherhood
Riordan’s authenticity resonates with her audience as she navigates motherhood with refreshing honesty. “You can be overwhelmed as a mom and still focus on the positives,” she says. “It’s about finding joy in the chaos and creating magical moments without overcomplicating things.”
She is mindful of protecting her children’s privacy while sharing snippets of their lives. “I’m careful about what I post,” she explains. “I want my kids to be part of my story without losing their sense of self or safety. It’s a balance I think about every day.”
Her approach to motherhood is grounded in simplicity and connection. “You don’t have to throw extravagant parties or have a picture-perfect home,” she says. “What matters most are the little moments and the effort to be present.”
A Platform for Empowerment
Through her blog and her book, Business Minded, Riordan champions female entrepreneurship and personal growth. She acknowledges the challenges she has faced along the way, such as building a sustainable brand in an ever-changing digital landscape. Her advice? “Success comes from balance,” she notes. “It’s not about perfection—it’s about finding what works for you.”
Her platform continues to evolve, offering insights into everything from home decor to needlepoint projects. Her classic style, often punctuated with bows, monograms, and timeless silhouettes, adds a signature touch to her posts.
Looking Ahead
As she continues to grow her platform, Riordan remains committed to inspiring her readers to create a life they love. Whether sharing a cozy needlepoint project, a thoughtful book review, or a heartfelt parenting story, she reminds her audience to find beauty in the everyday.
With her signature classic style, creative ingenuity, and commitment to authenticity, Carly Heitlinger-Riordan proves that life’s best moments are found in the little things.
For More About Carly Heitlinger-Riordan Check Out -
Website: carlyriordan.com/about
Instagram: instagram.com/carly
Book: amazon.com/stores/author/B099FL846C
Shopping: shopmy.us/carlyriordan
“You don’t have to throw extravagant parties or have a picture-perfect home. What matters most are the little moments and the effort to be present.” - Carly Heitlinger-Riordan