Freebies for the Class of 2020

We have had to make many adjustments in our lives lately and find new ways to celebrate wins, no matter how big or small. This year has definitely proved to be unique for the graduating class of 2020. Traditional graduation activities have been replaced by drive-by celebration, backyard ceremonies, and digital speeches but everyone from former President Barack Obama to athletes and entertainers.

Recently my friends at RetailMeNot.com shared a few fun ways some brands are giving back to recognize the class of 2020. Hopefully, you find these helpful in celebrating your graduates accomplishments. 

Chipotle
The first 5,000 customers to purchase a graduation-themed gift card from the chain between May 21 and June 30 will get a coupon code for a free entree (with the purchase of any entree).

In addition, students over 16 can enter the #chipotlesweepstakes on Instagram for the chance to win a $25K scholarship.

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Edible Arrangements
Edible Arrangements is giving away Celebration Dipped Fruit Delight bouquets to 2,020 graduates who post a video on social media using the hashtag #EdibleMoments. Videos must include the graduate’s name and explain how they’re celebrating this year. Customers can also get 20% off select arrangements with code GRAD2020 at checkout.

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Krispy Kreme
On May 19, seniors can get a free 2020 Graduate Dozen box by wearing their cap and gown or other Class of 2020 swag proving their senior status. The 1010 Graduate Dozen box includes an assortment of classic varieties like Chocolate Iced Kreme Filled and Strawberry Iced with Sprinkles, and will be available for purchase from May 18 to 24.

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Jack in the Box
From May 20 through May 26, Class of 2020 grads can get two free tacos with any purchase made through Jack in the Box’s mobile app.

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Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Through June 28, grads can get a free filet mignon steak (valued up to $50) from Ruth’s Chris with the purchase of two entrees.

3 Ways to Quickly Upgrade Your Room

This post contains affiliate links, however the thoughts and expressions are my own.

Photo from Lucky Brand Pinterest

Is it just me or is time flying since we’ve been on quarantine? Ever since we’ve been on stay at home order here in New Jersey, I’ve been really into making my room my own personal getaway. Recently, I discovered that Lucky Brand offers an assortment of beautiful home decor from candles to bedding and by adding a few new touches to a familiar space, you can make it fresh and new. Here are a few items that caught my eye:

A quick change to your bedding can give you that 5-Star hotel feeling. The Taos Matelasse Comforter Set definitely caught my eye. It may seem a little pricey at $300 but think of it as an investment, rather than just another purchase. Designed after hand stitched quilts in Marseilles, France, the detailing will instantly upgrade your bedroom. It’s made of 100% cotton and looks extra cozy. Don’t forget to add pillows to throw in a few pops of color and you’re ready for a Netflix night in. 

I don’t know about you, but I have been obsessing over candles lately, I feel like I go through one a week. Instead of having them burn down to your table, adding wooden pillar holders can be a quick small change to add to the environment. Buy a few of the same style or mix it up with a few different heights. 

Keeping your area clutter free will undoubtedly give you peace of mind. If you’re constantly trying to keep things organized, one way you can try is by storing smaller items in pouches or make up bags like these. Say goodbye to endless searching and hello to more time. I use them to store pens, hair ties, Q-tips etc. to avoid just tossing them in a junk drawer. Ready to go on a trip, just throw them in the suitcase because they’re already packed for you. 

Forever 21 x Patrick Nagel Collection

This post contains affiliate links, however the thoughts and expressions are my own.

Let’s just say, I’ve always had an obsession with graphic tees. From styles with quotes, characters from pop culture, band tees, the list goes on and on. For me, they convey a sense of fun personal style for everyone to see. I always love the reactions I get when I wear an interesting graphic and someone compliments it, giving me the feeling as if we have our own secret fan club. 

Even though at one time I thought wearing a graphic tee looked a little juvenile, it’s really all about how you style them. When it comes to making your graphic tee stand out, try to think outside the box by layering it with the unexpected. If you’re thinking about trying a different look, Forever 21 just launched a collection featuring artwork from Patrick Nagel, an American artist popular for his Art Deco designs.

I love that the collection has different silhouettes and styles to choose from all under $20. The designs are sophisticated and can easily be worn to grab some essentials or a visit to an art gallery, once they open back up. The collection is also available for guys and in plus sizes, including a few online exclusives available on Forever21.com. Looking for some style inspiration? Check out the looks I created below.

Dress it up by layering the Patrick Nagel graphic under a Satin Cami dress and accessorize with ankle platforms and hoop earrings.

If you're into a sporty look, pair your Patrick Nagel graphic with super comfortable biker shorts and a windbreaker. Don't forget to store your favorite gloss in this translucent fanny pack.

Keep your look simple and easy going with this Patrick Nagel cropped raw edge graphic tee, breezy wide leg pants and a faux pearl headband. The high-waisted pant paired with a boxy cut tee is flattering on any body type.

Mix things up and layer this Patrick Nagel long sleeve graphic over a figure skimming bodycon dress. By adding transparent accessories like lucite block heels and crystal clear sunnies, your outfit can do all the talking.

Let's play up the art theme and throw on some grid print skinny pants and add an open front Blazer. Tuck in the Patrick Nagel graphic, toss the satchel over your shoulder and you're good to go.

Bring out a pop of color, in this case the yellow in the Patrick Nagel graphic, by adding on a fun and flirty floral skater skirt. After sunset, keep warm with an oversized boyfriend denim jacket while staying hands-free in this faux leather backpack.

Style Recall

Do you associate clothes with trips or special occasions? I know I do. Recently, my sisters and I were sharing some past photos (on Zoom, of course) and for some, one thing I can remember was the exact outfit either I or someone in the picture wore that day. Like my mom’s 80’s style red and purple strapless dress with the scalloped neckline that she wore for my parent’s anniversary dinner. Or my black and white checkered cold-shoulder top with hot pink sequins on the strap that I wore in a backyard barbecue when I was a kid. These were fun, happy moments that I’ll never forget. Some of us don’t think about clothes that deeply, but regardless of if we want to admit it or not, what we wear has a unique way of triggering some unique memories. This may be why some of us buy clothes and hang on to them until the right day or event comes up to proudly show them off.

After going through photos on my phone, I found a few that reminded me of much better times before the whole COVID-19 epidemic. Here are just a few:

Snake Print Long Sleeve Crop Jumper
Black Basic Cycling Shorts

#1 Back when staying in was an option.

I’m not the type that likes to stay in the house, but even when I did I like to look halfway decent. Now chill, comfy looks are as necessary as a pair of jeans, which I honestly miss wearing. In the meantime wearing a cute, crop snakeskin print sweater and my favorite biker shorts leggings are thankfully still in style. This sweater is heavy enough to keep you cozy, but perfect for when you don’t want to wear something big and baggy and these biker short leggings, I could practically live it. I also like to pair the leggings with an oversized sweatshirt or tee and denim jacket for essential trips to Target.

Snake Print Square Neck Strappy Midi Dress

#2 Causal/cool dinner in Los Angeles 

My visit to California last summer was definitely one of my favorite trips. Los Angeles is one of my favorite cities because there’s so much to see and do, it’s impossible to check everything off in one trip. I’ve been a few times before and each trip has been different from the next. My favorite things to do are hit up a few local spots to eat, party in Beverly Hills, and shop on Rodeo. One day we decided to enjoy dinner at Nobu Los Angeles. Since Nobu is a local hotspot, and yes there’s paparazzi at the door, I wore this snakeskin pattern midi dress with a pair of white and silver heels. It was stylish but comfortable and didn’t make me feel like I was trying too hard. This dress has become one of my favorites because I can dress it up by adding heels and/or a blazer or tone it down with a full leather jacket and some classic vans.

Lime Bandeau Split Leg Ruched Maxi Dress

#3 Showstopper 

This last look is a look to remember. Before all the shutdowns, I went on a cruise to Key West and Cozumel. What I love about cruises is having the opportunity to get dressed up for every occasion. I think I changed clothes at least three times per day. There was a casual morning/breakfast look, the afternoon at the pool look, dressing up for dinner, and then something to wear to the club. Most cruises have one dinner that requires formal formal wear, which brings us to look number three. This strapless chartreuse asymmetrical dress was one of my favorite looks on the trip, even if I only work for a few hours. Wearing something asymmetrical is great because it gives you the movement of a grown without all the layers. This dress also has rauching on the back and on the sides to hug your curves in the right places.

Even though we all are stuck inside, I can’t wait to get out there and make some new memories. All the looks featured above are from Femme Luxe, an online clothing store that has tons of different styles to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a chill vibes or full on glam mode.If you’re staying at home, choose this time to figure out your personal style, refresh your closet and find some new threads. Visit Femmeluxefinery.com to check out their newest styles today.

Wine Dive Bar Opens in Philly

Photo Cred: Society Hill Films
You ever stepped into a place for the first time and instantly know it’s going to be your new favorite spot? That’s the feeling I had when I walked into the media night at Wine Dive ( 1506 South Street). The atmosphere was jumping with music playing your faves, the decor was unexpected ( make sure you check out the bathroom), the staff was great and the wine/drinks were flowing.

The Wine Dive is a wine bottle shop in a full-service bar, offering everything from amazing wine selections to beer and one-of-a-kind cocktails. They even have some tasty snack options on the menu. Brought to you by Heather Anne-Chiarico and Chris Fetfatzes, the same culinary couple to bring you Quick Sip, Hawthorne‘s Beer Café, Tio Florez, and the new Cambridge (located next door), Wine Dive is the first ever dive with wine as a key player.

During their media night event, I tried two of their cocktails: The Red Queen (Red Wine, Averna, Old Granddad, Lemon and Herbs) and the Pony Up (Miller High Life Pony and a Lofi Gentian Amaro Shot). The Red Queen was definitely a crowd favorite. It’s perfect for anyone who is not a red wine drinker and likes a little bit of whiskey. The Pony Up was like a reverse shot with a chaser. The Lofi Gentian Amaro Shot was sweet, but the Miller High Life creates a palate cleansing balance.

Let’s talk about the snacks! The Raclette Grilled Cheese was so satisfying, made with sourdough and bread and butter pickles, something I never thought about adding to my grilled cheese before, but it is amazing! 

When was the last time you went to a dive bar and had caviar? I can’t think of one. But Wine Dive has homemade potato chips topped with sour cream and salmon caviar! Again such an unexpected combo to find at a bar! It reminded me of something you would eat in secret at home because caviar and potato chips seems not right, but taste so good.

The Crab Rangoon‘s were probably my top snack of the night with cream cheese, lump crab and sweet chili sauce, I just couldn’t get enough. Every ingredient just right to satisfy your taste buds.

Throughout the night, I kept hearing people say that it felt like we were in New York, but to me this place couldn’t be more Philly. I feel like it is definitely going to be a Philly favorite for years to come giving visitors a unique look of how Philadelphia does a wine bar.
Special thanks to Aversa PR for inviting me to the event!

Experiencing the New Hydrafacial

A visit to the spa is always a good idea so when The Rittenhouse Spa and Club reached out with an invitation to visit and learn more about the New Hydrafacial, I couldn’t say no. During the event hosted by Alex and Mike of alexand mike.life  guest were able to enjoy light bites, wine, and receive a complementary 15 minute mini Hydrofacial. If you never heard of a Hydrafacial, it’s a non-invasive, non-surgical, resurfacing treatment that combines LED light therapy, to immediately reduce the look of lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, acne, hyperpigmentation, and congested pores. 

The Hydrafacial is amazing and I had previously experienced one before, so this time I was more interested in their Booster Bar. The booster bar displayed additional treatments you can add to your Hydrafacial to focus on a certain area you may want to enhance or bring attention to. Guest could either choose from a lip or an eye perk. 

I decided to go with the eye replenishment replenishing serum to brighten, tone, and firm the outer eye area and let me just say the results are instant! You can really feel the area around the eye tighten, smooth and de-puff. Best thing about choosing one of their booster serums is that you can take the rest home with you to continue your treatment! 
To check out some video footage of me actually getting the treatment done, click here to check it out on my IGTV channel. 
Since then I’ve been faithfully using it day and night in combination with my usual beauty routine. No matter how tired my eyes may feel applying the serum around my outer eyes really refreshes the skin helping me look my best.

To book your Hydrafacial appointment at The Rittenhouse Spa and 

Club visit TheRittenhouseSpaClub.com or call (215) 546-9000 to get your skin refreshed for fall.

5 Things To Know About Candytopia Before You Go!

If you haven’t heard Candytopia.com is here in Philadelphia for a limited time! Located in Philadelphia’s brand new shopping destination The Fashion District, many people are intrigued to know what it’s all about and what’s inside. To help you out, here are five things you sure know about Candytopia before you go.

#1 - The entrance is outside of the mall. At first we weren’t sure where to enter the exhibit, not realizing we walked right by it. Before entering the main entrance of The Fashion District, the door to Candytopia will be on your left side at 9th and Market Street. If you’re driving there, there’s a few parking lots to choose from in the area. I used the one directly across the street from Century 21 at 8th and Market Street. 

#2 - It’s like a museum , but with candy (and you can touch the art). At first, I thought I was going to be entering this real life Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory kind of experience, but after checking pictures of the previous locations on Instagram and their website I saw that it was not the case. (This made me slightly disappointed, but kind of relieved because that would be sort of gross.) On the contrary, Candytopia is like visiting an art museum with displays made entirely out of candy. Since the tour is in Philadelphia be on the lookout for iconic sites and people from the area.

#3 - Come camera ready. Even though Candytopia is a great place to see and experience something new in the area, you’re going to want to be a part of the fun. With that in mind, be prepared to take some unique pics because you won’t want to miss out on the action. Some of my favorite photo areas were the rainbow tunnels (perfect for boomerangs), the confetti room, and the marshmallow pit.

#4 - Download the app. To piggyback off of number three, it’s a good idea to download the Candytopia app. The app allows you to capture moments as if you had your own personal photographer. (It also takes away the awkwardness of having to ask someone to take your picture.) You can also buy tickets and get more information directly on the app.

#5 - You will get candy! After falling short of my Willy Wonka expectations, I was very excited to find out that, you do get candy. Every room has candy hidden inside for you to collect throughout your journey. If you miss any along the way, don’t worry there’s a gift shop at the end to grab whatever you’re into.

If you haven’t visited Candytopia yet, don’t panic it’ll be here until January 5, 2020, giving you plenty of time to check it out during the chillier months. It’s a great place for the whole family, visiting relatives, or just a girls night out. To purchase tickets and get more information, check out their website at Candytopia.com.