Girls Trip Essentials

 It's not Friday, I missed posting yesterday. I'm giving myself grace. Last week was so full with my job and preparing for a girls trip I'm currently on in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. I love traveling with my gal pals for so many reasons but one of the biggest is the crazy amount of laughter and the adventure.  I'm not brave when it comes to trying new things but with these gals I've make it a point to do one thing a year that scares me.  I've ridden in a helicopter through the mountains of Lake Tahoe and today we are going zip lining! #terrified 

Traveling is much different than spending day-to-day time with others. There are special elements to be considered such as finances, interests, logistics and personalities. 

Here are my favorites to bring on a girls trip:

GOOD ATTITUDE

It's essential to be positive, flexible and accommodating to the other girls.

Compromise is key to ensuring everyone is enjoying.

CONTRIBUTIONS

My precious friends decorate our room to celebrate my 41st birthday yesterday!

They made me feel sooooo special!!!

Everyone brings things to the group. I carry the role of capturing photos & videos, doing hair and make up and the overall enthusiasm. One gal is awesome at planning the logistics and keeping the calm. The other has us dining well, is assertive in getting all our needs/wants met and keeping us very entertained. 

UNDERSTANDING

Not everyone is a morning person or likes the outdoors, puzzles, shopping or napping ... you get the idea.

Being respectful and enduring others' interests goes along way. 

Currently my friends are still sleeping while I'm tucked away writing. 

I encourage you to travel with your gals pals & try something new together!

(3-4 is a great size group but if you have more, cheers!)

Dress Beautifully on a Girls Trip

XOXO Sarah Louise

Home Sweet Home - 3 Ways to Prepare for Your Return Home From Vacation

There's no place like home! After being away every single weekend since the start of Summer this is holding very true for me. This is the second Summer that we've chosen to go, do and experience as much as we can and while these trips are more fun than a barrel full of monkeys it does make from some extra work on the front end.

When we think of preparing for vacation, packing our bags with all the essentials and cute outfits of course :) is first and foremost. For me, I begin preparing our home for our return before I pack my bags.

I do this so that saying goodbye to a destination is then met with a fresh welcoming of home. 

Here are 3 things I do to prepare for the return home from vacation ...

1. Laundered Linens  

2-3 day prior to departure I make sure all clothing loads of laundry are complete.

1-2 days prior, I wash sheets and towels.

Not only does it prevent overload when your return, but there's nothing like coming home to fresh clean sheets and towels after sleeping in a strange place.

This also ensures that all options are clean and available for packing!

2. Prepared Healthy Meal or 2

Dream Kitchen!

That copper vent hood!

While eating what you have in the fridge so that nothing sits and spoils while you're gone is a good practice, I like to make sure I have at least 2 healthy options for  quick meals when I return.

There are always indulgences while traveling (ice cream at the beach is my favorite!) so it's nice to come home to something light and healthy. Since fresh fruits and veggies most likely won't keep here are some options: frozen veggies/healthy meal you can pop in the oven, have a neighbor set out some frozen meat for you or pop in quickly to the grocery store on your way home and grab a bag of salad, veggies, meat etc .. just to get you by and avoid eating out one more time!

3. Shined Surfaces & Floors

Cleaning floors is one of my least favorite chores so we do have hired help that actually scrubs them every 3 weeks. 2 days before departure I give my surfaces an extra thorough wipe down & dusting. Then I vacuum every square foot. In order to do this ALL things must be picked up and tidied so you're ensured to return to a spic & span space.

These 3 areas of tasks not only are essential for maintaining a clean home 

but truly set you up for a prepared departure and peaceful return!

Dress Your Home Beautifully for Your Return from Vacation

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday Favorites: All the Things

 TGIF! Gals, there is no slowing down for us this Summer. We are filling nearly every weekend with a trip and weekday with slashing at the pool. The best part of all the Summer fun we are having is sharing it with our friends!

Here are some of my favorite things from my travels, I've worn, found on sale, use and enjoy from day to day. It's a bit random but just maybe one will make it to your list of favorites.

Denim Jacket

I wore this one a lot in San Francisco

I love the soft fabric, modern distressing, shorter sleeve length and 

puff sleeves for a fashionable feminine touch!

Distressed Jeans 

on sale this weekend

Mother is my favorite brand for denim and this pair is not only comfortable but chic and modern.

These do run small so size up.

Sandals

I found these shopping at Neiman Marcus in SF.

They come in several colors but the bright orange spoke to me (pink was my second choice)

I like the more pointed toe (not a fan of the trending square)

and soft leather top band that's not too thick & wide

Ferragamo

One of my all time favorite designers for nearly 15 years!

I have this classic Vera shoe in 4 colors and I fell in love with this pale pink pair the moment I saw them.

I didn't purchase but they're on my wish list.

Embroidered Green Skirt

I got to see the brand Maje in person at the Saks Fifth Avenue in SF

It's now a top favorite. Pretty pieces & great quality

I brought home this skirt.

Wristlet

Perfect for going out and about with ease 

Holds everything you need: phone, cards, lipstick

Puff Sleeve Top

this one is more like a tee. Super soft bodice with casual henley neckline

but with crisp puff sleeves to add a dressy touch

I bought in white & lavender - also in navy

Smocked Flowy Shorts

I recently picked these up on sale and gals they feel like you're not wearing anything at all

From every day at home to nights out these are a winner

Neutral Tunic Dress

This one just spoke to me! I love the print, detailing, shape and sleeves.

Not as casual as most tunic dresses but not too dressy either.

Perfect for hot summer days!

French Cafe

coffee/pastry/food

best little spot in San Francisco for a treat

 

Coffee Maker

we just added this one to our kitchen and we love it

It's low profile (I detest anything on our counters)

fast, delicious and honestly really cool looking

Spruce

Elegant dining in San Francisco

we celebrated our anniversary here

While I may be the farthest thing from a foodie, this was by far the most delicious (and expensive) meal I've ever had!!! 

Pajamas

I buy a pair of these a few times a year for myself and as gifts for new mothers.

Note: when traveling with others it's good to have a nice set of pajamas to wear

Doll Stroller

I Got Vivian & her cousin these doll strollers 

They're not only sweet for playing Mommy but also for taking everywhere since they fold up

Sunglasses

I liked the color on these for something different & fun.

Blush

My sister gave me this and while it looks super bright it wears beautifully!

It's the prettiest pink.

Necklace

these color beaded pieces are all the rage!

The Summer I Turned Pretty

I just watched this and while the focus is on teenage summer relationships

I really enjoyed the friendship between the two moms

I found this very encouraging 

Pony Tails

my sister gifted me these and I wear them Every. Single. Day.

they truly hold back ALL my mane without pulling, slipping or stretching out.

Dress Beautifully in All the Things

XOXO Sarah Louise

Golden Trip

 Happy Monday Gals! 

I first must apologize for missing Friday's post of favorites.  I truly had intentions however we have been vacationing in San Francisco for the past 5 days. I made the decision prior to our trip to focus on my job and Vivian. During our trip I was present with Ryan and friends. #Priorities

We traveled here to celebrate the wedding of our dear friend.  It has been amazing reuniting with people we love so much that we've missed for the past 4 years.  Life has spread us out all over the country but our bond is closer than ever.

Ryan and I extended the trip to include time to celebrate our 12 year wedding anniversary! 

I have so much to share on fashion (the shopping here is amazing) and our adventures in the city.

Until Wednesday, I'm off to travel home to our darling Vivian Louise. I can not wait to have her in my arms!!!! 

Dress Beautifully if You're Ever in San Francisco

XOXO Sarah Louise

Recipe for Girls Weekend Away

Lord knows I can’t cook worth anything but I can put together a recipe for a 5 star girls weekend that will leave you full of joy. Some of my dearest of dears are a road trip away while others are a mere drop by. Regardless, I find it of great importance to step away from our day to day to be present with one another.

Gathering is so so good for the soul! Sure we text, talk on the phone, follow on social media and video when we can but it doesn’t measure up to the face to face smiles. The dedicated time away is where we really share, learn and grow with one another.

It's also more economical than a couples/family trip as you're only paying for yourself and split across the group!

I get asked often about all my girls weekends (I have at least 6 a year) and since I just hosted one right here in Charlotte I find it’s perfect timing to share how I do it.

Tip: You can simply book a hotel/home right where you live and still get away!

Here’s my recipe for a weekend away with your besties:

PLAN 

Coming together with calendars in advance is key! We all have responsibilities but with commitment and delegation establishing dates & logistics (childcare) solidifies the event. We pick locations based on season, budget and rotation of cities amongst us.

Tip: We share each other’s travel points/benefits.

FRESH AIR

Whether it’s sitting on the beach, hiking a mountain or cruising on a boat being outside together is medicine for the soul.

ACTIVITY

We love to try new things.  We’ve participated in concerts, gym classes, historic tours, rope courses, spa packages, cooking, beading, candle making, and painting classes... the list goes on. Next month we’re getting really adventurous with a helicopter tour of Lake Tahoe! 

GAMES

I’ve shared some of the biggest laughs and heart felt stories over a good old-fashioned deck of cards or puzzle.

SNACKS & SPIRITS

I have a gal pal who loves making snack boards!

Everyone bringing their favorites to share makes for full tummies. 

It also makes being away more comfortable and homey. 

SIGHTS & SHOPPING

It’s always enjoyable to stroll, take in the local attractions and find a few treasures along the way.  I learn quite a bit about people seeing things they like on the shelves.

NIGHT OUT

Getting all gussied up for cheers and celebration of your friendships is some of the most fun! Getting ready together coiffing your hair and putting on make up in preparation is also the source of a lot of fun. 

And while the snazzy outfits are important, your kind and happy heart paired with listening ears will make you so stylish.  I'm not one to typically share, but in a trusted circle it's nice to lean on one another.

Wherever you go, whoever you're with, enjoy! 

Dress Beautifully on a Girls Weekend

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Friday 5: Travel Chic

Today rather than sitting at my office desk or Mr in an exam room we’re going to be planting ourselves on a plane! 

We have a packed itinerary for 3 days in San Fran and 5 days in Wine Country that includes trolleys, bridges, fabulous eats, shopping, hiking and all the grape juice our livers can handle!

When it comes to dressing for air travel there’ve been huge changes.  Dressing in your Sunday Best was the etiquette for the longest time and then over the past 15 years passengers have gone to the extreme casual.  Too casual in my opinion.  There’s a way to be comfortable trucking around the terminals and cramming into your seat that doesn’t include your pajamas.

Here are my tips for dressing chic, comfortable and convenient while traveling:

-          Blue jeans – straight or boyfriend cut for roomy fit and any spills/stains won’t be as damaging on darker colors

-          Blouse – loose and cotton to keep you cool and more polished than a tshirt or tank

-          Flats – easy to slip on and off at security, comfy and closed toe for cleanliness

-          Tote – holds all your necessities! Documents, wallet, snacks, book, ipad, earphones & jacket/sweater

-          Jacket – this has pockets for easy access to your boarding pass & id, also there may be a chill on the plane (better than it being hot!) and can double as a blanket or pillow for attempted rest

      

       FYI: I am wearing this outfit today & it will transition perfectly for exploring SF! 

Jacket || Blouse || Jeans || Bag || Flats ||

Dress Beautifully While Traveling

XOXO Sarah Louise