HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: FOR THE TRAVEL LOVER

The gift giving season is well under way. And I had every intention of sharing this post weeks ago, but here we are 4 days before Christmas! I have a NEW GIFT GUIDE for you for the travel lover in your life. I’ve rounded up some of the best travel necessities and accessories any travel lover would be happy to receive this holiday season.

1. Makeup Organizer - This makeup organizer is waterproof and comes with adjustable compartments to keep all of your makeup organized while traveling. Under $25 So many blogger friends have raved about this Amazon find! *Order on Amazon Prime for 2 day shipping!

2. Patchology On The Fly Skincare Set - The ultimate skincare set for traveling. It includes everything from face masks, an eye mask and lip mask. Everything a travel lover needs for their next flight!

3. Luggage Tag Charger - This travel accessory is a luggage tag and charger all in one. You can even add a monogram to personalize it!

4. Calpak TRNK Luggage - A little bit of a pricey gift option, but one of the best luggage brands I’ve ever owned. Everyone should have a high quality luggage for their travel needs.

5. Sole Society Mason Weekend Bag - Faux leather bag is perfect for a weekend getaway or used as a carry on tote. *You can still order & have it arrive by Christmas Eve!

6. TOPTOTE Hat Clip - The travel accessory you never knew you needed. This sleek clip attaches to your handbag or luggage allowing you to carry your hat in tow.

7. TSA Travel Bottle Set - A chic travel toiletry set complete with labels for all of your toiletries. TSA approved and leakproof! *Order on Amazon Prime for 2 day shipping!

8. Collapsable Water Bottle - H2O on the go will be a breeze with this reusable silicon bottle. It’s collapsable and leak-proof, making it perfect for travel. *Order on Amazon Prime for 2 day shipping!

9. 6 Set Packing Cubes - These are great especially for those who typically like to travel with a carry on. There is some kinda magic that packing cubes possess because you can really cram so much into each one. Also helps with separating clothing and accessories, making unpacking and re-packing so much easier. Available in several color options.

10. Digital Luggage Scale - No more paying for extra baggage fees or having to rearrange your luggage last minute at the airport. This digital scale weighs your luggage and is compact enough to pack in your suitcase. Would also make a great stocking stuffer! *Order on Amazon Prime for 2 day shipping!

I hope this gift guide helps with some last minute gift ideas! Merry Christmas & Happy Shopping!

XO, RAE

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019: FOR THE HOSTESS

I’m so excited to get into the swing of the Holidays & bring back my Gift Guides for 2019! The first Holiday Gift Guide is geared toward the hostess. So whether you’ve been invited to Friendsgiving, a cocktail party, an ugly sweater party or your neighborhood potluck, I’ve got you covered. All items are priced below $50 and most are actually under $25! I’ve included a range of gift ideas that any hostess is sure to love!

I hope this helps make your holiday shopping & gift giving a little easier this season. Click on links below to shop items.

1. Winter 3-wick candle - When in doubt, candles always make a great gift! This one from Bath & Body Works smells AMAZING!

2. Cordless Electric Wine Opener - A bar accessory any wine lover would appreciate.

3. Sleigh All Day Coffee Mug - This sassy holiday mug would bring cheer to any hostess! Add a Starbucks Gift Card and gift complete.

4. Silicone Marble Utensil Set - ONLY $15! The prettiest serving set that looks expensive and is functional for everyday use.

5. Insulated 12oz. Champagne Flute - Under $20! This insulated flute allows bubbly to be taken on the go. Fun fact: it holds nearly 1/2 a bottle of champagne. And comes in 30 different colors!

6. Holiday Wine & Spirit Tags (Pack of 3) - Add these festive tags to a bottle of white or red and you’re set!

7. Holiday Dish Towel & Spatula Set- The cutest towel & baking spatula set for the hostess who love to bake.

8. Marble Condiment Bowls (Set of 2) - ON SALE!! And would look great on any kitchen counter.

9. Wooden Cheese Board - Ships FREE! A gorgeous natural wood cheese board with a copper handle that will look great in any setting. You can also add the matching cheese knives.

10. Chalkboard Cheese Markers - These would make a great addition to any charcuterie board. Gift this set alone or pair with cheese board above.

Bath & Body Works 3-wick Candle

Silicone Marble Utensil Set

Wine Gift Tags

Sleigh All Day Coffee Mug

Insulated Champagne Flute

Holiday Dish Towel & Spatula Set

Marble Condiment Bowls

Round Wooden Cheese Board

Chalkboard Cheese Markers

Cooper Cheese Knives

Cordless Electric Wine Opener

XO, Rae

YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

This month marks my FIVE year anniversary of living in New York City. On October 9th, 2014, I was sitting in a packed SUV of my belongings en route to New York to begin a new chapter. As my best friend, my Mom and I drove those very long 16 hours, I remember having so many emotions. At 3am October 10th, 2014, I crossed over the George Washington Bridge in Manhattan and I knew then, everything was about to change.

Honestly, when I moved here, I only set out to live here for a year. And then without hesitation each year turned into the next. The fact that I actually get to call this city (home), is still very surreal to me. New York is one of those cities that will change you from the moment you arrive. For me, it’s been by far the best decision I’ve ever made. I can honestly say that I have never had a moment of regret being here. I know New York City isn’t for everyone and I respect that. But for many of us, we feel most alive here. And even in New York’s chaos, there is so much beauty within.

In celebration of my 5 year anniversary, I enlisted the help of my friend and photographer Lauren Lucile and did the most EXTRA photoshoot in the middle of Central Park. My vision was really just to portray the love affair that I have with New York City.

Photography by Lauren Lucile Creative

A few thoughts on living in New York City:

• You will constantly find yourself evolving here. Change is inevitable in the city, so you just learn to adapt as you go.

• You eventually learn to live with less, especially living in a smaller space. I honestly don’t miss most of my stuff. In fact, 75% of everything I own is still in storage in Atlanta.

• Friendships can be hard here. It took me awhile to have a solid group of core people I see regularly. Everyone is always busy, not to mention all going in different directions.

• Speaking of friends, I definitely miss my closest girlfriends back in Atlanta! But luckily, our friendships have all stood the test of time and distance. In most cases, it actually has brought us closer together.

• Everyone will want to visit you in NYC. I remember the first three years being non-stop with friends and family in town. But I loved every minute of it. There is something so special about seeing New York City through someone elses eyes for the first time.

• Walking around the city and looking up at the skyline and bright lights still gives me all the feels. The energy here is something you have to experience for yourself in order to truly appreciate the magic of it.

• I miss having a dishwasher & washer and dryer in my apartment. But honestly, you just learn to live without those luxuries. I’ve gotten really good at doing laundry often to keep the piles small and I usually wash dishes as I cook to lessen the aftermath.

• YES! The city is ridiculously expensive. I mean, cocktails will set you back $14-$18 at most places. But it’s a small price to pay to have some of the best restaurants and entertainment all at your disposal.

• Living with roommates is the norm here. Even in your 30’s. Unless you can afford to dish out $2,000-$3,000 in rent alone. Luckily I have the luxury of living with two of my best friends, so it feels more like family.

• Although New York is home to millions of people, it can sometimes feel incredibly lonely. It’s important to remind yourself that you’re not alone and everyone has tough days here.

• I feel like I’ve learned to enjoy my own company more and do things SOLO that I wouldn’t have necessarily done before living here. Some of my best memories over the years, have been times that I’ve explored the city on my own. Nobody even thinks twice about someone sitting at a bar, coffee shop or park alone. It’s actually kinda nice to be alone sometimes and take in the city.

• You will forever be asked by people: “WHY DO YOU LIVE IN NEW YORK?!” And my reply: “Because New York City is the first place I’ve ever lived that has made me feel more like me than ever before. Also, I always look forward to returning no matter how often I leave.”

Honestly, I don’t know if New York will be my forever home, but I know that it feels like home for now. And I can’t wait to see what this next year has in store for me. Cheers to another year in the BIG APPLE!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

I ❤️ NY: YEAR 1 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

YEAR 2 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

YEAR 4 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

XO, RAE

FEATURE FRIDAY 9.27.19

It’s the first weekend of FALL, y’all! And the only thing missing, is the cooler temps. Anyone else ready to break out their sweaters and boots?! Me too. I’m also excited for all my favorite tv shows to return. So I can spend my nights cozied up on the couch with a glass of red. I love this season so much. And I can’t wait to do all the Fall things.

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and more.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

• If you enjoy watching the Super Bowl only because of the Halftime Show, you’re in luck! The 2020 Super Bowl Halftime Show performers have been announced and it’s bound to be a performance to remember.

• News broke this week that this Real Housewife of Beverly Hills, will star in the role of Roxy Hart in Chicago the musical early next year. Can’t wait to get tickets to the show!!

• Trader Joe’s just dropped their NEW seasonal items for Fall. And the list is everything pumpkin spice and then some.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

• I’ve been using this in my coffee every morning and it’s sooo good! Especially if you’re looking for a dairy substitute.

• My go-to weekly charcoal face mask. I love that it’s a mask and exfoliating scrub all in one product. Also works great as a spot treatment, if you have any breakouts.

• Essie has launched their 2019 Fall Nail Polish Colors. And it’s pretty safe to say, I’ll be wearing the color: “Easily Suede”- all Fall long.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

• See artists like Alicia Keys, One Republic, Pharrell Williams and more at the Global Citizen Music Festival. Located at The Great Lawn in Central Park, Saturday 9/28. Starts at Noon.

• Stroll through the Union Square Farmers Market to see all the new seasonal items. Saturday 9/28 8am-6pm.

• NYC Pizza Run is going down at Fort Greene Park, Saturday 9/28. Starts at 11am. Grab tickets here.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

MY FALL BUCKET LIST 2019

A DAY TRIP TO WÖLFFER WINERY

15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

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XO, Rae

FALL BUCKET LIST 2019

Happy first day of FALL y’all! I love this season so much especially living in New York. The city takes on a new mood and every where you look, you can see Autumn coming to life. I love the crisp cool mornings and seeing the leaves change over time in Central Park. It’s a reminder to sow down and enjoy what the season has to offer. And I will most definitely be partaking in all things pumpkin spice until further notice. Today, I’m sharing my annual Fall Bucket List.

You can check out my previous bucket lists throughout the years: 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015.

Fall Bucket List 2019

• Spend a day baking with my best friend.

• Go apple picking at an orchard in upstate New York. And bring home some apple cider donuts.

• Take an early morning walk through Central Park to see the leaves change color.

• Try a new restaurant in the city that has a seasonal menu for Fall.

• Go to a Fall Festival in the city.

• Spend a cozy day at home watching movies.

• Pick out some new Fall scented candles at Homegoods.

• Go to Trader Joe’s and stock up on their seasonal items. All. things. Pumpkin.

• See the new Broadway Show Moulin Rouge!

• Walk around the Upper West Side and scope out all the stoops decorated for Halloween.

• Host Friendsgiving with friends. An annual tradition of my roommates and I.

• Visit Dominique Ansel Bakery in SoHo & try the cronut flavor of the month.

• Celebrate my 5 year Anniversary of living in New York City. I’m thinking dinner & drinks at a fancy spot is in order. Here are my previous blog posts recapping previous years in the city: YEAR 1, YEAR 2, and YEAR 4

What’s on your Fall bucket list this year?!

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5 THINGS TO DO IN NYC THIS FALL

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 8.23.19

Photography by Victoria Saperstein (2018)

Happy Friday from gloomy + rainy NYC. I can’t believe Summer is coming to an end. I can honestly say, this has been one of the best Summers I’ve had in awhile. And I’m kinda sad to see it end. But I’m thankful for the new friends I met, adventures had and memories made over the past few months. What was the best part of your Summer?!

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

• RHONY Bethenny Frankel has decided NOT to return to the show next season. Here is what she had to say about her departure from the franchise.

• Supermodel Ashley Graham recently revealed that she’s pregnant in the most adorable announcement.

• Save this list for your next trip to Trader Joe’s.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

• Recently started re-reading this book and definitely recommend it if you’re in the need of some motivation.

• Sephora SALE is happening again. I’ll be stocking up on eye cream, my favorite CC cream and this lip mask that I’ve heard is amazing.

• I’ve been looking for a collapsible water bottle to take with me on the go and I found this one on Amazon. It’s the perfect size and comes in a few different colors.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

• Celebrate Summer Friday’s at Kendra Scott in SoHo every Friday in August from 12-2pm. Get 15% OFF your purchase and SIP Champagne and Rosé while shopping.

• Blues BBQ Festival at Hudson River Park Saturday Aug. 24th 2-9pm Eat BBQ from local NYC vendors while enjoying LIVE music.

• Drink brews from the Brooklyn Craft Brew Fest at Brooklyn Navy Yard. Saturday Aug. 24th Grab tickets here.

• Visit the popular bakery Dominique Ansel to try the August Cronut before it’s gone. This month’s cronut has Salted pretzel ganache w/ caramel ganache inside and a salted sugar mixture on the outside. YUM!

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

• 15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

• 20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NYC

• 10 Classic Spots For Drinking Outdoors in NYC

• A DAY TRIP TO WÖLFFER WINERY

XO, Rae

A DAY TRIP TO WÖLFFER WINERY

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

A few weeks ago, I finally got the opportunity to take a day trip out to Bridgehampton to visit Wölffer Estate Vineyard. This has been on my New York bucket list ever since I discovered Wölffer Rosé a few years ago. I knew the winery was one of the more popular wineries on Long Island, so I was excited to experience it in person.

Being that Wölffer Winery is located in Sagaponack on Long Island, there are a few ways in which you can get there from the city. My friend and I decided to rent a car for the day via Zipcar, which was super easy and affordable. You can also take a train from Penn Station (LIRR) to Bridgehampton. And then it’s just a short Uber ride from the train station to the winery. The other option, is to take the Jitney Bus which travels back and forth from Manhattan to the Hamptons. Either way, it’s totally doable as a day trip.

What to know beforehand:

• Wöllfer Estate Vineyard is Open Daily from 11am-8pm year-round.

• Highly recommend making a reservation for the tasting room. It’s FREE entry and you just pay per glass or flight.

• You can also make a reservation for a Vineyard & Cellar Tour which includes a tasting of four different wines. Cost is $68.50 per person.

• The winery does close from time to time for private events. Make sure to call ahead to confirm availability. Ph. 631–537–5106

• Arrive earlier in the day if possible, as the crowd tends to grow as the afternoon/early evening approaches.

• There is indoor and outdoor seating available for tastings. The patio overlooks the vineyard and has some shade for those warmer days.

What to Sip:

• They offer a few different wine flights for $25 that include four different tastings. Seasonal flights are available.

• Since it’s Summer, we opted for the Rosé flight and loved it!

• You can also purchase wine by the glass or bottle(s).

• I recommend the Wöllfer Estate Summer in a Bottle Rosé or Grandioso Rosé.

• They also have signature cocktails on their menu that feature Wöllfer Ciders and ‘Pink’ Gin.
  

What to do:

• Take advantage of the patio seating that overlooks the vineyard.

• Stop by the shop inside to purchase bottles of wine and souvenirs to take home with you.

• Sit at the bar if you want more of a one-on-one tasting. The bartenders are very knowledgable and can give you more of a personal experience.

• Visit The Wine Stand and enjoy the sunset while sipping a glass of wine.

  *This was by far my favorite part of the winery. It’s located just down from the main winery and they offer wine by the bottle or glass. Once you grab your wine, head out back to sit in the Adirondack chairs that face the vineyard.

If you decide to visit Wölffer Winery, I hope these tips help! I had the best time there and can’t wait to go back again (maybe this Fall).

Have you ever been to a winery? If so, which one(s) have you been to? Any that you recommend me visiting?!

CHEERS!

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 8.02.19

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

Happy Friday! I can’t believe that it’s August already. I feel like this Summer has flown by. But luckily we still have another month or so to make the most of it. I’ve been living my best life this Summer and saying “YES” to more adventures. And I honesty can’t remember the last time I enjoyed Summer more. Although I prefer Fall over any season, I’ve been loving the longer days and making memories with old and new friends. What’s your favorite season?

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

• Sephora has recently expanded their “CLEAN AT SEPHORA” program to now include 50 banned ingredients and even more product regulations. This is great news for consumers in being able to shop more safer beauty products.

• Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has been CANCELLED this year, according to one of the brand’s models. As a CURVY girl myself, I am happy to see that some changes may be in the works. The company is rumored to be rebranding. Which is long overdue in my opinion.

• If you’re local to New York, one of my favorite podcasts “Berning in Hell” by Hannah Berner is going to be LIVE August 22nd. Not only is Hannah hilarious, but she talks about real life struggles like anxiety, depression and gives light to mental health issues. Grab tickets here.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

• I recently received my first Summer box from Fab Fit Fun and I’m loving all the products included. I’m picky when it comes to subscription boxes, but I have to say that this one lives up to the hype!

• Last week, I checked off something on my Summer bucket list by taking a day trip out to the Hamptons to visit Wolffer Estate Vineyard. Vineyard views + wine tasting + live music is the perfect way to spend a Summer day. Highly recommend this winery if you’re thinking about making a trip out to the Hamptons. I’ll be sharing more details on my visit there in a blog post SOON!

• If you want to prevent your makeup from melting off your face in the Summer heat, try this setting spray. It keeps your makeup in place and has SPF 30 to help protect your skin while out in the sun.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

• NYC Restaurant Week July 22nd- Aug. 16th. This is great way to try out local restaurants for a discounted price.

• FREE grounds admission to the New York Botanical Gardens every Saturday 9-10am

• Friends Trivia Bar Crawl Saturday Aug. 3rd. Grab tickets here.

• Lexington Avenue Summerfest Street Fair (On Lexington Ave from 42nd - 57th St) Sunday Aug. 4th 10am-6pm

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

• 15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

• My Beach Bag Essentials

• 20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NYC

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 7.19.19

We made it to another Summer Friday! My morning definitely started out slower than usual. #latenight You know you’re in your 30’s when, you wake up and have to add drops of electrolytes to your water in effort to feel human again. But a good time was had by all, so you know…totally worth it! Let’s just say I’ll be a little less out and about this weekend, haha.

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

• Queer Eye Season 4 drops today on Netflix. I love this show and cannot wait to see the new season.

• This iPhone app allows you to scan beauty/skincare products in effort to learn about the ingredients and potential toxic chemicals within them. It also offers suggestions for cleaner beauty products. I’m definitely intrigued to learn more about clean beauty.

• Nordstrom Anniversary SALE is LIVE for public access, TODAY. And runs thru August 4th. NSALE is great for stocking up on Fall clothing, outerwear, activewear, name brand denim and shoes. The SALE is known for heavily discounted name brands and makes for the perfect time to start your Christmas shopping.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

• I recently ordered a pair of Blue Light glasses for under $20! Stylish and functional and best of all, my eyes don’t get as tired being on the computer all day.

• I’ve been using this Brazilian cream for cellulite and to tighten my skin. It smells AMAZING and I’ve noticed a difference with my legs and bum.

• New favorite bar - The Happiest Hour down in the West Village. They have a long list of specialty cocktails and it’s a great place to make new friends. I already can’t wait to go back!

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

• PIER 17 has a NEW Summer Pop Up, The Lookout that offers bites, curated cocktails and views of the city. Located in the Seaport District. Open daily 3pm to late night.

• NYC Summer Ice Cream Blizzard Sunday 10am-5:30pm at Grand Bazaar Market on the UWS

• PINKNIC outdoor festival with live music, food vendors and lots of Rose. Pink and white attire encouraged.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

• 15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

• My Beach Bag Essentials

• 20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NYC

XO, Rae

15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

If you’ve ever visited New York City or lived here, chances are you’ve experienced just how expensive the city can be. Although New York City gets a bad rap for being costly, I think it’s important to note that here are in fact a ton of FREE things to do! I often remind friends/family that a trip to the Big Apple, doesn’t have to break the bank. So I decided to do a round up of my favorite things to do in the city that don’t cost a thing. And wether you live here or plan to visit one day, this list will help you save some money while enjoying all that the city has to offer.

1. Staten Island Ferry - Hop on for a quick roundtrip across the Hudson River to see Lady Liberty. Make sure to grab a beer at the concession stand to take with you for the ride.

2. Yoga class in Bryant Park (May-Aug)- No better way to de stress than Yoga with a view.

3. Washington Square Park - Located in Greenwich Village, the perfect place to sit and people watch. Don’t forget to capture a photo in front of the infamous Square Arch and Fountain.

4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden - FREE admission every Friday before Noon (March-November) and Winter Weekdays (December-February)

5. Brooklyn Bridge - Some of the best views of the city can be seen walking across the bridge. Best times to go are early in the morning or at sunset.

6. Dumbo, Brooklyn - You can easily spend a day exploring Dumbo, seeing the sights and capturing photos with amazing waterfront skyline views.

7. The Plaza Hotel- This ICONIC hotel is a must to see in person. You can typically walk through the ground level and take in the beauty that is, The Plaza. The flower arrangements located right inside the entrance are worth the trip alone (they change per season).

8. Central Park - Stroll through the park on your own or book a FREE guided tour of the park. Make sure to stop by these famed spots. (Bethesda Fountain, The Mall, Gapstow Bridge, Wollman Rink, The Pond, The Bow Bridge and Strawberry Fields just to name a few).

9. New York Public Library - Located in the heart of Midtown, this historic landmark is a must see. Make sure to stop by the newly renovated Rose Reading Room.

10. Grand Central Station - Explore the hustle and bustle of this NYC transportation hub. You’ll likely recognize many spots inside from scenes of movies. And don’t forget to find the Whisper Gallery.

11. Movie Nights Under the Stars - During Summer months, you can pack a picnic and see a movie from several parks and rooftops in the city.

12. Museums - Lots of museums in the city are FREE all year long. And several have specific days/times that offer FREE admission.

13. The Highline - An old railroad track turned elevated park which runs from Hudson Yards to Chelsea. Wake along the park, take in the city views and enjoy the landscape and outdoor art installations.

14. Explore a New Neighborhood - The best way to see the city is simply to walk the streets and take in the sites. You never know what hidden gems you might discover or the people you may meet along the way.

15. 9/11 Memorial - Open to the public daily from 7:30am-9pm. Visit ground zero, view the memorial fountains and see the Survivor Tree.

What are your favorite cost friendly things to do in NYC?! Any other places or attractions I should add to the list?

XO, Rae