5 PHOTOSHOOT TIPS FOR BLOGGERS

I am SO excited to be collaborating with my photographer and friend, Lauren, from Lauren Lucile Creative for today’s blog post. We are each sharing our tips and tricks for getting the most out of photoshoots. Lauren is a self taught photographer who has an eye for detail and is not afraid to get creative when it comes to getting ‘THE SHOT’! And as a blogger, I’ve learned from trial and error when it comes to capturing the perfect photo(s) for a blog post or social media.

I first met Lauren back in January of this year, after she reached out to me via Instagram. A few days later, we met for coffee in SoHo to chat in person and do a test shoot. We ended up sitting inside Pietra Noilta for about an hour and then Lauren snapped a few photos of me outside the very instagramable pink cafe. We immediately hit it off and I remember leaving their that day, feeling excited about the pictures we had just taken. Lauren sent me the photos later that same day and I was instantly impressed by her talent in capturing my personality as well as her editing skills. Not to mention, her quick turnaround time. We ended up chatting over the next week and decided to schedule an hour photoshoot for February. From that day on, we became fast friends and have gone on to do several more photoshoots. 

Admittedly, I was a little reluctant at first to hire a professional photographer. A few reasons being: 1) The cost. 2) Fear of being judged for not being a seasoned blogger who was comfortable in front of the camera. 3) I wasn’t initially convinced that I needed professional level photos as an up and coming blogger. But after working with a professional (aka Lauren) a couple of times, I quickly realized the impact that professional photos had. The images were definitely better quality compared to using my iPhone camera. The sizing of the images were perfect for my social media channels as well as for blog posts. And since Lauren edits all the images, it has helped me to create an aesthetic with all of my images that I use for social media (especially Instagram). Which in the end, saves me so much time and money from using editing apps and doing it myself. I have also noticed a higher engagement rate on social media when posting the professional photos. And as a content creator, brands often prefer to have campaigns shot with a professional camera. So overall, it’s been one of the best investments hiring Lauren to take my photos. 

My confidence is also been something that has improved significantly with each photoshoot. Before, I would see photos of myself and pick apart every aspect of what I didn’t like. Especially being a curvy woman, I tend to be really hard on myself if I see an angle or pose that isn’t flattering. But overtime, I have learned what my best angles are, how to pose with my body type and how to just have fun in the moment during shoots. Looking back over the year, I can definitely see the growth in my photos with how much more comfortable I am. So much so, that I recently framed two 8x10 prints from Lauren and I’s most recent photoshoot and hung them in my bedroom. A year ago, I wouldn't have had the confidence to display full body photos of myself anywhere in my apartment.

And after working together for the better part of 2019, Lauren and I decided that we should put our knowledge together and create a reference guide for both Bloggers and Photographers to utilize. Below I’ll be sharing my tips for bloggers to get the most out of your photoshoot. Then make sure to head over to Lauren’s site to read her tips and download her style guide (included in her blog post) for your next photoshoot!

Tips for Bloggers: 

1. Try on outfits ahead of time. Once you’ve chosen your outfits that you want to wear for the shoot, go ahead and try them on. Especially if you’ve chosen to buy new clothes that you’ve never worn before. Also make sure to Include accessories, shoes and makeup to coordinate. Then take a photo of yourself to make sure that you like how the outfit looks and fits on you. This will help give you a visual of what everything looks beforehand and give you time to make any edits before the day of the photoshoot. 

2. Practice posing. I can’t recommend this enough especially if you’re new to working with a photographer. It’s much harder than it looks when you have to start standing in front of the camera. You’re worried about which angle is being shot, how your hair looks, if your lipstick is smudged, all while trying to walk with props in hand and trying to not look awkward doing so. It may seem so much easier seeing other bloggers in their photos pose “perfectly”. But chances are, they have mastered their pose(s) over time. My advice is to get in front of a mirror and practice walking, find your best angles and pose in different positions until you feel comfortable. You can also set up your phone to record a video while you practice posing and play it back to see how it looks. Trust me, if you get in front of a camera and feel awkward, it will show in your photos. 

3. Select location & map it out. I always like to visit the location of the photoshoot prior to the actual shoot day (if time allows). This helps me to get a visual of different backgrounds I want to capture in my photos. If shooting multiple outfits, I’ll also make notes of which outfits I want to wear according to the different spots I find. This not only puts me at ease the day of the shoot by having a plan in place, but also saves so much time when shooting while allowing some room for creativity. I never have to stop and search for the next spot to take photos during the photoshoot. Once I have everything planned out, I’ll type it up in a phone note and send to Lauren ahead of time. This way we both go into the session knowing what to expect. And because I’m very TYPE A…I’ll also write out a more detailed list to have with me the day of the shoot. I prefer to write everything out on paper with location(s), outfit changes, campaign specifics that I need to capture in photos and any other helpful details to keep me on track during the photoshoot. It can often get hectic with trying to do everything once you’re on site. And having a list to reference helps ensure you get the most out of your time and your photographer’s time. 

4. Save photos on Instagram or Pinterest for inspo. Whenever I’m scrolling through social media and see photos that inspire me for an upcoming photoshoot, I’ll save them to my phone. Then I’ll send them to Lauren ahead of time or show her on day of shoot. It’s helpful to give a visual of what I’m trying to capture. But also keeping in mind that you shouldn’t expect it to come out exactly the same, nor should you want to 100% replicate someone else's work. So many things go into creating a photo and so many factors affect the outcome of a picture (weather, crowds, construction, store closing, other nyc things). But sometimes it’s nice to use other images as inspo and then put your own spin on it. You always want to be unique and showcase your personality in your photos. 

5. Communicate with your photographer. It’s important to be open and upfront about any concerns or questions you have. Discuss what your best angles are, things you may want to hide or conceal in photos, what you’re trying to convey with your photos, what content your photos will be used for, etc. This will help your photographer have a better idea of what your expectations are and how they can capture the best shots of you.

Lastly, have FUN!! On the day of the shoot, go into it prepared and open minded. And don’t be afraid to be playful! Sometimes the most unexpected shots become the best ones overall. 

PRO TIP:

Invest in a Pop-Up Pod (portable changing tent). Some photographers may provide this for you. However, I highly suggest getting one to have for yourself. It’s a lifesaver when it comes to changing outfits in public. Especially since there isn’t always a public restroom available when on location at your photoshoot. Another time saving tip!

Here is a look at some of my personal favorites from Lauren and I’s photoshoots over the past year!

And if you’re in need of a photographer, reach out to Lauren directly via email or DM her on Instagram. (Tell her I sent ya!)

Jan. 2019

Pietro Nolita in SoHo, NY

Feb. 2019

Meaux Space (Privant Event Space located in Chelsea, NY)

Feb. 2019

Meaux Space (Privant Event Space located in Chelsea, NY)

March 2019

NYC Subway

March 2019

Washington Heights, NY

March 2019

Washington Heights, NY

July 2019

Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponak, NY

Oct. 2019

Central Park, NY

Oct. 2019

R+Co Hair Campaign 2019

Oct. 2019

Bow Bridge in Central Park, NY

Oct. 2019

Bethesda Terrace Stairs in Central Park, NY

Oct. 2019

Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, NY

   XO, Rae

VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT IDEAS FOR DATE NIGHT

We are just 1 week away from Valentine’s Day! And that means the pressure is on to find a gift for that someone special. And whether you’re dating, newly in a relationship, engaged or even married, I’ve rounded up some Date Night Gift Ideas to set the mood.

Valentine Greeting Card

A note for your boo.

SHOP

Rose Vanilla Bubble Bath

Luxury Bath Aromatherapy

SHOP

Milk Bar Truffles

A sweet treat for two.

SHOP

Love Language Card Game

Get to know your partner’s love language.

SHOP

LUSH Peach Bath Bomb

Give a little fizzle to your bath.

SHOP

Love Candle

Get the night LIT and set the mood.

SHOP

WINC Wine & Chocolate Set

Red wine will have you feeling fine.

SHOP

Crate and Barrel Red Wine Glass

Perfect pairing to your bottle of red.

SHOP

The Date Night Cookbook

Nothing is sexier than heating up the kitchen together.

SHOP

I hope these gift ideas help heat up your Valentine’s Day! Enjoy!

XO, RAE

WHOLE 30: HOW TO PREP + WHAT TO KNOW + WHY IT WORKS

I'm not usually one for diet fads or meal plans, but after seeing several friends give Whole30 a try and find success. I became intrigued. Two years ago, in preparation of being MOH in my best friend’s Wedding, I did my first round of Whole30. I remember it being hard in the beginning and feeling frustrated 1/2 way through. I realized that I was maybe carb loading too much on bananas, sweet potatoes etc. I also made the mistake of thinking that I could substitute meals for Whole30 approved Rx Bars and Larabars.. When they are supposed to only be used for “emergency snacks”. I stopped eating protein bars all together and substituted eggs and berries instead for breakfast. And in the very last week of my first round, I started to feel GREAT. I had more energy, I was sleeping better and I lost 8-10lbs total. But most importantly, I just felt good overall. I looked at food differently, I started to be more conscious of reading labels and I even adopted some of the Whole30 habits into my lifestyle well after I had completed the 30 days. It was definitely the first time I felt that I had found a program that worked for me.

I have always struggled with my weight. And I’ve done all the diets, taken all the pills, drank the shakes and starved myself through the years. But Whole30 isn’t a DIET. It’s a reset for your body. And in the end, you learn how your body reacts to certain foods by reintroducing them after the 30 days. For me, I realized that dairy was a huge culprit for making me feel bloated and causing my skin to breakout. Although I haven’t gone completely dairy free, I have eliminated a lot of it from my diet. And I feel so much better without it.

Last year, I completed another round of Whole30 and found it to be a little easier the second time around. And I’m now currently on Day 14 of my third round of Whole30. So far, this round has been the easiest. I think due to the fact that I know more of what foods I can eat, which brands to buy and I now have some go to recipes that I love. However, I’m still learning daily on what foods are best and how my body reacts to the changes. I’ve learned to have patience with the process while completing the program and to pay more attention to what I’m putting in my body.

So with having done a few rounds now, I wanted to share what I’ve learned and give a little insight on what to expect if you’re wanting to try Whole30.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING WHOLE30:  

• It will require you to make multiple trips to the grocery store each week.

• You will need to read labels on EVERYTHING until you get familiar with brands/items that are Whole30 compliant.

• You don’t have to be a master chef, but you will have to cook often.

• You will feel worse before you feel better. Give your body time to adjust and detox the sugar. It’s 30 days for a reason.

• You will have to make adjustments to your social life in order to be successful on this program.

• You will also need to allow extra time in your day/week/month to plan and prep for meals.

WHY I THINK IT WORKS DIFFERENTLY FROM OTHER PROGRAMS:

• It changes your way of thinking about food. Making you more aware of what you’re putting in your body.

• You will gain more energy.

• You will get better sleep.

• You will feel less foggy and more focused.

• You will crave less sugar overtime.

• Your body will get a chance to reset / detox.

• You don’t have to count calories or keep track of food.

• Weightloss (although this is not the main reason to complete this program)

• It helps you to make concious changes to your eating habits longterm even after you complete the 30 days.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST ROUND:

• Clean out your fridge and pantry of any non Whole30 approved foods to resist temptations.

• Search Pinterest or Whole30.com for recipes to start meal planning.

• Find recipes that will keep you interested and that you’ll commit to making.

• Read up on the program on Whole30.com. There are tons of recipes and resources.

• Make a grocery list of Whole30 items you plan to purchase from local grocery store, Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s (It may require you to shop multiple stores)

• Notify Friends/Family for added support and accountability.

• Plan ahead for any social events you have upcoming. (Work dinners, Travel, Girls Night, Baby/Wedding Shower etc.) Make sure you can stay on track but still enjoy being social.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED AFTER DOING 2 ROUNDS OF WHOLE30: 

• Your body needs 3 proper balanced meals a day. (I’m still working on this.)

• Don’t substitute Rx and Larabars for a meal. Only use as needed for snacks.

• HYDRATE. Drinking water is important.

• NO alcohol + less eating out = saving money $

• Cooking meals doesn’t have to be complicated.

• Change up your meals weekly so you don’t get bored.

• The more you plan ahead, the easier it will be to maintain every day.

• If out with friends who are drinking, order a sparkling water in a wine glass with a lemon/lime wedge. It helps a little to feel like you’re not missing out. And you won’t have a hangover.

• After the first round, it gets easier. You now know what to buy, what to cook and don’t feel like you’re constantly craving certain foods as much.

• The amount of weight you may loose varies. Don’t get caught up on the weightless part of it.

• Don’t compare others results to yours. Everyone’s BODY is different. Finish out strong and I promise you will notice a difference by the end.

A few challenges I faced in the beginning, was having to give up my sugary coffee creamer and having to cook most of my meals. I now use an almond milk/coconut cream based creamer all the time. And when ordering coffee out, I always order with almond milk or coconut milk. Sometimes I’ll add 1 pump of Sugar Free vanilla or seasonal flavor. Cooking has actually become something that I enjoy. And I’ve learned that meals can be simple and yet really delicious. The other thing I was afraid of having to “give up” was condiments. I love condiments and I cannot lie! But to my surprise, there are lots of Whole30 approved condiments that taste just as good, that I keep in my fridge even when I’m not on Whole30.

So even if you think that you will miss out on certain foods, know that overtime you will adjust and find healthier options to feed your body. It’s all about creating better habits. And that is the biggest takeaway for me.

WHERE TO SHOP FOR WHOLE30:

• TRADER JOE’S

• WHOLE FOODS

• THRIVE MARKET

FAVORITE SNACKS / CONDIMENTS:

As a reminder, make sure to do your own research and read up on all the guidelines of WHOLE30 on their direct site Whole30.com.

If you’ve done Whole30 OR thinking about trying it out, I’d love to hear from you! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

XO, RAE

37 THINGS I'VE LEARNED IN 37 YEARS

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! 🥂🍾 Although this will be my first post of the new decade, I’ve actually been working on this one for a few weeks now. I recently turned 37 (December 10th) and honestly I’m still trying to figure out how I feel about this new year of life. It’s one of those ages where you really start to feel your age; mentally, emotionally & physically. And although I’ve mostly enjoyed my 30s, I’m learning that there is so much that this decade brings. With each new year of my 30’s, I’ve learned more and more about myself, friendships, relationships and what I want for my future self.

I’ve shared some lessons learned in my 30s in previous blog posts. You can read them here and here.

Photography by Lauren Lucile Creative

1. Confidence comes in waves but it definitely grows the older you become.

2. Friendships will change due to marriage, babies, careers, distance and time.

3. Go to therapy. Whether you have things in your past you want to resolve or you just want to be a better version of yourself. Investing in your mental health is so important.

4. Travel as often as you can. Whether it be solo, with a significant other or with friends.

5. Talk to your parents more. They have a lot to teach you and advice you’ll need for later in life.

6. Stop getting caught up on your flaws. They are what make you, YOU.

7. Take more photos so you can have the memories to look back on.

8. Spend time alone. Learn to enjoy your own company above anyone else’s.

9. It’s okay to NOT be okay at times.

10. Forgive the people that hurt you or treated you unfair. Not for them, but for yourself.

11. Get your finances in order. Pay off any debts. Build your credit and create a budget for yourself.

12. Learn to say “NO” more. Especially to the things that don’t serve a purpose in your life.

13. Success isn’t defined by just one thing. Everyone can be successful in their own way.

14. Don’t wait for “someday”. If it’s on your heart and mind, do it NOW.

15. Life will throw some unexpected things your way. It will be difficult. But you will get through it.

16. Get in the habit of asking yourself if your daily routine is aligned with your goals.

17. Talk to your parents about their wishes for end of life care. It is NEVER too early to have this conversation with your loved ones. Although it’s difficult, It brings so much peace of mind!

18. And then make a plan and discuss your wishes with your friends & family. Having a living will is easy to have drawn up and can be updated as life events occur.

19. Celebrate the BIG and SMALL things in life.

20. Don’t be afraid to meet NEW people. Sometimes we make new friends in the most unexpected circumstances.

21. Don’t rush LOVE. Your time will come and it will be worth the wait.

22. Wear the swimsuit. Nobody is looking at your cellulite or worried about the extra lbs you’ve gained.

23. Stop comparing yourself to others. Live your truth.

24. Work on yourself for YOURSELF. Not because you think it will change someone else’s opinion of you.

25. Communicate. Even when it’s uncomfortable or awkward.

26. Friendships take work just like any relationship. Invest your time with those who are willing to invest in you as well.

27. Check on your strong friends. They may carry it well, but they often need your support the most.

28. Spend the money on getting your hair cut/colored, getting your nails done, waxing or tanning. If it makes YOU feel good, it isn’t money wasted.

29. Healing from your past is necessary.

30. Stop wasting time trying to “fit in”. Being yourself is so much more powerful.

31. Save some money for “in case of emergency” situations. You never know what unexpected things may come up. Or when you may need to leave that job you hate.

32. Find things that you’re passionate about outside of your career.

33. Make use of your nice things. Break out the China you were given, use the Champagne flutes you were gifted, drink the expensive bottle of wine you’ve been saving.

34. Save keepsakes: cards, menus/napkins from places you’ve been, concert tickets, etc… One day you’ll want to look back on those moments in time.

35. Be patient with yourself. You’re growing. You’re healing. You’re doing the best you can.

36. Live in the moment more.

37. Embrace your 30s. They are sure to be the most challenging yet rewarding years.

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

Recently featured ON:

Advice From a 30 Something - “DECIDING WHETHER OR NOT TO HAVE KIDS IN YOUR 30S”

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?!

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:

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

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