Happy Friday everyone! Doing a quick roundup of my favorite sandals for summer. You don’t have to break the bank to achieve the look you want but I always suggest investing in a great pair of neutral leather sandals that you can leave year after year. Here is a link to the raffia ones from Zara. And here are my favorite white sneakers! I’ve talked about them a lot here but they truly are so comfortable and machine washable:) Great plane shoe!
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Wash your clothes in cold water - When you wash synthetic fibers in hot temperatures they break up and end up in nature. 1. Try to avoid purchasing synthetic fibers 2. Wash clothing at a temperature less than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Around 90% of the energy to wash clothes comes from heating the water.
Avoid single use plastics and straws - At this point we’ve probably all watched the horrifying video of the turtle having a straw pulled out of its nostril. We know plastic straws are bad for the oceans and sit in landfills forever. Do your best here friends! More and more restaurants and coffee shops are offering plastics alternatives or sip lids. I love these glass ones at home.
Turn off the water - Have you ever started brushing your teeth and let the water run in between rinses or until you’re finished? We’re all probably a little guilty of this (especially our little ones!). Water is a precious resource and creating good habits at home like reducing water usage can have a positive impact on the planet and on your bills!
Use reusable bags - If i’m being honest, this is always the hardest one for me. I used to always forget to put my bags back in the car after a grocery run or I would forget them in the car when I went into the store only to realize while on line to pay. Now I leave smaller zip pouches like this one in my bigger totes and also on the side of my car door to remind myself.
Eat less meat - Ok this does sound a little extreme but if we all ate meat just one night a week less, we could make a significant impact. According to the New York Times, “In the United States, 42 percent of agricultural emissions come from animal agriculture.”
Recycle old batteries - According to the EPA they contain heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and nickel.” You should never just throw them away with the rest of the trash. Instead, head to your local Best Buy or PC Richards and drop them in one of their recycling bins.
Carry a reusable cup - When I’m around town running errands or working in a coffee shop, I carry a glass mason jar with me. I’m so used to it now that if I forget it I’ll likely go home if I have the time. Here is the one I have that comes with a reusable straw.
Clean with eco-friendly products - This was a change we made when we had Luke and its gradually become better and better. I also recommend the think dirty app to check your products. I’ve had to say goodbye to some of my favorites over the years because of this app!
Say no to non-disposable takeout - Ordering takeout or delivery that you’re eating at home? Let the restaurant know that you won’t be needing things like plastic utensils and paper napkins!
Start a compost - About two months ago I started adding old coffee grinds and eggshells to our rose bushes. They’ve never looked better and it got me thinking…adding composted food back into our soil can help not only the environment but our garden too! When I started looking into it I was really surprised by what you could add to the pile. Everything from fruit and vegetables, to tea bags and cotton rags. Even hair! Here is a helpful list of what you can and cannot compost.
the stripe - I’ve been wanted to try the Summer Friday's masks for a while and loved this review by Grace Atwood. Love her makeup/beauty reviews in general!
the everygirl - What to expect when you see an FA for the first time. Love this site for quick tips and advice on everything from parenting tips to decor advice. Also experts say you should start investing right after graduation! I wish I had!
This week was beautiful in CT. We had a few over 80 degree days which I’m not complaining about! I was in a dress mood (surprise!) and gave my shorts and denim a rest for most of the week.
recipe - On stories this week I shared how I make my iced tea at home. Don’t ask me why but I used to get overwhelmed making it myself and I realized it was because I didn’t have the right tools. Also it never came out quite right (watered down, or not enough flavor). These tea bags made specifically for iced tea make it really easy. Follow the directions on the back of the tin for the perfect cup:) This is the pitcher I use. Its tall and thin making it ideal for the refrigerator door.
reuse - I recently discovered these reusable coffee mugs from porter and am hooked. I ended up gifting them to a few of Luke’s teachers this year. They’re so soft, easy to clean, and they fit in my car cupholder! Not to mention they come in the prettiest pastel colors.
trending - button-up dresses and jumpsuits. Nursing women everywhere should be super excited about one of this summer’s hottest trends. I love this style because it can easily be worn in a conservative office environment, or with sandals headed to the beach. Here’s a style for under $30.
With the world at our fingertips and everything we could ever need or want just a click away, “the experience” has never been more valuable. The idea that human contact could one day be a commodity is becoming more true every day. When I walk into a coffee shop I‘m not just looking for a good cup of tea. I want it all - a setting that makes me reach for my phone to take a picture, a smiling barista inviting me in, an eclectic mix of locally sourced or homemade treats, and an overall buzz. If I have my kids with me that adds an additional list of pre-recs.
MAMAN in Soho, NYC checks all of these boxes. If you’re someone who also looks for “the experience” and lives in New York or you find yourself passing through, its a sure thing. I’ve been thinking a lot about this. People ask me how I worked in retail for so long and I always say, “It was because of the people”. I love creating a moment for someone and adding value to their day. Who knows….maybe I’ll open a coffee shop one day! :)
Camille Styles - How to identify your side hustle? READ
Happily Eva After - Five big reasons this NYC born and raised beauty appreciates the suburbs READ
Studio McGee - Summer home inspiration from one of my favorite design teams. If you’re not familiar with their work or their shop, get ready to add to your wishlist! READ
podcast - I thought this podcast was fascinating. In it, Elise Loehnen from goop interviews Aposotols Lekkos M.D., a doctor trained in emergency medicine with a Santa Monica based practice specializing in functional medicine. Dr Lekkos looks at the whole patient, including a deep dive into family history, and how one deals with stress. He creates restorative treatment plans focused more on supplements and non traditional remedies such as acupuncture and less on “medicine”. He offers some great tips and makes shocking correlations between diet and disease.
song - This song has been playing on repeat in our house this week. If you follow me on Instagram you may have witnessed my not so well executed lip-synch performance on stories:)
recipe - My favorite condiment for burgers - mix soy free veganaise + siracha + S & P - I made this shrimp burger on Thursday night and it was delicious! Frank is allergic to shellfish so I swapped the shrimp for salmon and used GF buns. Can’t find wakame (seaweed salad) at your local grocery store? Try the fish market!
trend - My best friend Virginia has been telling me about enneagrams for a couple of years now. Finding your “number” (there are nine) can be an essential step towards understanding yourself, achieving success at work, and creating balance and harmony at home. This article breaks down the enneagram basics and what it means for you.
We’re heading to Nantucket on a family vacation at the end of the month and I’m so excited! Last year was our first time on the island and it was love at first breath. I say breathe because the island is not only beautiful but it smells incredible too. We were only there for 3 days but it felt like a week. Here is a weekend recap and photos from that trip. This year we’ll be staying in a different rental which is also walking distance or a short bicycle ride to town. Everyone has something on their list: a trip to Cisco Brewery, strawberry picking at Bartlett Farm, and many trips to Lemon Press. Heading to the island? Check out my friend Mackenzie’s super local guide.
“Our wedding invitations were one of my favorite details. We used The Printery in Oyster Bay, NY. They sourced handmade paper from a mill in Italy and created our beautiful monogram from hand cut die. The calligraphy was from Kelly House. I nearly fell over the day I found out it was featured on vogue.com!”
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For more wedding details visit our feature on Style Me Pretty
Breakfast at Provisions : When I discovered this place about 7 years ago it was love at first sight. As you know I have a serious love for healthy foods and even more so organic and dairy-free options. If you're heading to Sag Harbor or just passing through, stopping here is a must. I recommend the watermelon juice and my absolute favorite thing to eat is the baby buddha (ask for both the tahini and green herb dressing). Provisions 7 Main St, Sag Harbor, NY
Lunch on the go at Harbor Market & Kitchen: Last summer we rented a house in Sag Harbor and Frank and I stumbled upon this place while on a morning bike ride. Everything is delicious! They have vegan and gluten free options and will also happily satisfy a carnivore:) You can eat in at their communal tables or pack a to-go basket for the beach. My favorites are the salmon cakes, tahini brownies, and jasmine iced green tea. Harbor Market 184 Division St, Sag Harbor, NY
Coffee/Tea and a cookie break (while shopping) at Sylvester & Co.: Lynda Sylvester starting making cold brew 20 years ago. You can drink her now famous coffee here on tap along with a delicious homemade dark chocolate peanut butter cup. Yes I was a little bit indulgent on this trip! Stop by this modern general store for the perfect hostess gift or to treat yourself! Sylvester & Co 103 Main St, Sag Harbor, NY
Frozen Yogurt at Buddha Berry: Every time I go here I beg them to open in Connecticut. Their frozen yogurt is delicious and they have the most amazing dairy-free options that are coconut milk based. This weekend it was match (obviously I was in heaven). Buddha Berry 125 Main St Sag Harbor, NY
Shopping at Goop: I loved last years pop-up in Amagansett and this one doesn't disappoint! Don't miss the beautiful outdoor garden in the back! I treated myself to this diffuser that has been on my wishlist for a long time. Last night we diffused this oil and my bedroom smelled amazing! GOOP 4 Bay St, Sag Harbor, NY
For buried treasure stop in Bloom: I couldn't find a website for this gem but trust me, its a must visit. The picture above was shot in the back cottage. BLOOM 43 Madison St, Sag Harbor, NY
Dinner at Dopo La Spiaggia: If you want to be instantly transported somewhere else for a romantic dinner this is the spot. We took the kids this weekend and although it wouldn’t be my first choice for a family dinner we had the best time! They were so accommodating (no children’s menu but they made them what we asked for) and brought out our meals really quickly. Highly recommend the branzino:) Dopo La Spiaggia 6 Bay St, Sag Harbor, NY
Stay at Baron’s Cove: Frank and I first stayed at Baron’s Cove for their inaugural weekend 4 years ago! They opened for Memorial Day and we took baby Luke to celebrate our anniversary. We had the BEST time! Since then we’ve returned 2 additional times and have always been impressed. I find the pricing to be extremely fair for the Hamptons and the amenities and service are excellent. Its also VERY family friendly: walking distance to the town of Sag Harbor, access to the hotel’s bicycles, pool, table tennis, gym, massages….(PS this is not sponsored! we are big fans. Baron’s Cove 31 W Water St, Sag Harbor, NY
Our anniversary dinner at Dopo La Spiaggia
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I love Memorial Day! Not only is it my wedding anniversary weekend, it also kicks off summer and thats always something to celebrate. This year we’re staying home and we don’t have any major plans. I talked to a few friends about it and they all agreed that most of the people they know are staying local too. I’m kind of excited to just have a long weekend with the family to lay low and enjoy the sun. Today’s roundup is perfect for casual barbecues, trips to the farmer’s market, or hanging by the pool. Happy short week everyone!
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I love Chef Chloe’s food. I honestly never knew food could taste this good. Vegan or not, her flavors and her creativity are unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in a meal. Last year I was lucky enough to attend a five-course lunch created by her and Jean Goerges at the Inn at Pound Ridge - it was heaven. I don’t think I’ve ever been able to eat EVERYTHING on a menu so this was a real treat. I can’t wait until she opens ip something more permanent in NYC! Here is her recipe for banana bread!
It is supposed to take 21 days to form a habit of low to medium complexity, so start applying sunscreen every morning and wearing a hat when appropriate to get ready for summer sun. Here is an article featuring some of the best natural products on the market for sun. This one was our family favorite last summer! Also love wearing this tinted sunscreen during warm weather months.
40 things in 40 years. This piece is a must read. My biggest takeaway was this line: Real wealth is health. That rings so true for me especially after becoming a mom. I also loved numbers four and sixteen (“F” luck!). The whole thing is SPOT ON.
I tried this basic white tee last week and thought it was great. Both the short boxier version and the classic were a great fit. The fabric is really soft and you can’t beat the $30 price tag!
I’m almost finished with the boy’s bedroom. Hehe! It’s not easy! I’ve been drawing a lot of inspiration from online but its so tough to commit because there is so much that I love! Check out actress Lucy Liu’s playroom. She uses kid friendly colors in neutral tones for a more laid back vibe. Here’s a sneak peak at the nightstand I ordered for between their beds!
I’ve been on a bit of a smoothie kick recently. Breakfast is my JAM. I like every meal but I really enjoy eating well in the morning. I used to be a huge fan of eggs because I thought they were the most filling option but at a recent doctor’s appointment I let it slip how often I was eating them - no bueno! Apparently 5 days a week is not great for your cholesterol. Who knew?! So I set out to find something just as simple to make and more importantly just as satisfying.
I always wanted to be a smoothie girl but they overwhelmed me. You always have to have your fridge stocked with fruits and greens and then there is the issue of cleaning the blender. I could never get it right and after all that, it didn’t even taste that great. I probably should write a post about this but in walks Sakara. I’ve been using their life source packets and I’m addicted. I first ordered the 10 day box a month after giving birth to Luke. What I love about it is it has a longer shelf life than the food in a traditional cleanse/meal plan so you can space things out and do it on your own time. Also this is the blender that we have and its so easy to use/clean! Use code girlguide25 for 25% off your 10 day reset box.
Last week turned out to be very eventful! It started with a busy schedule at home and at work (we hired a new babysitter and are changing our routine slightly so its been a transition for everyone). Then on Wednesday evening I was gardening with the boys for an hour (ONE HOUR) and the result was the discovery of a tick bite and a poison ivy outbreak. I didn’t realize I had touched poison ivy, so on Friday when I first developed a small rash on my neck and around my eye, I assumed it was a reaction to a new face oil. It wasn’t until Saturday morning when I woke up that I knew something was wrong. Half of my face, neck, and stomach were covered and it was SO itchy! In between errands for Mother’s Day I went to urgent care and was prescribed a 10 day course of steroids. PHEW! I’m still itching while I write this but oddly enough I have to say I ended up having the nicest day on Sunday. It was rainy and cold but we hosted both of our immediate families for dinner and everyone had the best time. I cooked which kept me busy and the boys were so happy to have everyone over. Another highlight last week? The luncheon I attended for the launch of Persifor’s new collection. Alex the founder is a true visionary and it was amazing to see her vision come to life - a collection inspired by Cartagena, Columbia.
Today I’m sharing two of my favorite summer accessories and a great way to refresh your wardrobe. While on the topic of accessories I have the share that I have been wearing these sandals non-stop. They are so comfortable and go with everything!
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get the look
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Its almost shorts season! I’ve always struggled with shorts. I guess I have a longest of criteria when it comes to them - comfortable, not too short, and flattering around the thigh area. I wanted to try this pair all last summer but never pulled the trigger. I finally ended up ordering them this winter and instantly fell in love. They’re high-waisted so they suck everything in and are great for tucking in blouses which I love to do!
OK - another item on the hunt for. Self tanner! We’re planning a few three day vacations over the next three months and I would love to have a little bronzey glow:) I don’t really tan and even if I did I’m not in the sun enough to catch any real color. SO….send me your recs! I’d prefer to find something that is natural or organic if possible and will share recommendations and my reviews! My tan summer self thanks you:)
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There is just something about throwing on a lightweight dress, sliding into your favorite sandals, and heading off to enjoy a sunny day. In today’s video I’m sharing a mix of some of last year’s favorites and some new styles that I’ve added to my wardrobe. I wore this style to everywhere last summer - from my sister’s bachelorette party in Sag Harbor, NY to the beaches in Belgium. You can also style it open over a bathing suit for a chic coverup alternative.
Its important to invest in pieces you love and will wear year after year. BUT, great style doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite styles at a more affordable price point.
I love styling summer dresses. Probably because I also love raffia accessories and the two make the perfect pair! Its much easier to achieve the look you want on a budget in the summer especially when it comes to accessories. This style is amazing for summer and when I found this steal pair for under $100 I was so excited. Here’s a style coming soon for under $50! If you’re looking for a raffia pair and willing to spend a little more I have these and they’re VERY comfortable. Worth the price tag!
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This was my family’s favorite summer meal last year. Turkey burgers are a great alternative to classic beef ones and its nice to switch it up during grilling season. I actually made them for a Mother’s Day barbecue and everyone was so impressed! The avocado and basil mash makes it! You will not be dissapointed!
BUT HOW? How do we fix the problems of our planet, the environment? I’ve been trying to educate myself on what’s happening and reading articles like this one. Plastic raining from the sky? By this point you’ve probably seen the video the turtle squealing in pain as researchers remove a plastic straw from its nostril. I don’t know what the answer is but I know it starts with us. Every little bit counts.
With Mother’s Day around the corner I’ve been on the hunt for interesting and unique gifts that don’t break the bank. Something that feels special but not extravagant. These earrings are so pretty and will look great no matter what age or hair color. I’m pretty simple when it comes to accessories so for me these are the perfect balance of casual yet refined. They pass the white t-shirt or cocktail dress test! Stay tuned for more Mother’s Day gift guides coming to the blog next week.
OK, I’m sharing two recipes this month because I’ve been in a bit of a dinner rut lately. We eat a chicken about three times a week in our house. This recipe is great because you can just make a side of brown basmati rice and you’re set! I love how fresh it is….your house will smell amazing!
One of the first rooms I tackled when we moved into our home two years ago was the front foyer area. Not only did I want it to look nice for guests and our family, I knew it was going to be high-traffic and needed to be functional. We have a tall but shallow closet with hooks and one shelf. I used four of these baskets and I love them! They’re filled with hats, scarves, gloves, and empty reusable tote bags (I file fold these). I alsolove that they come with a liner that I can wash if necessary. I’ve done it twice so far just for a refresh. Also, they’re currently on sale:)
Spring cleaning isn’t just for our closets. Now is a great time to revamp and replace some of your everyday kitchen products with more earth-friendly ones. We just started using these placemats and I’m actually planning on laminating a few so they last a little longer (will share on my stories @ArtemisKorkidis). They are the perfect size for any family meal and after a handful of uses you can just pop them into your recycling bin! Love the reversible print!
