The Alida: A Savannah Staycation

In the chaos of our life, Justin and I finally made time to celebrate our anniversary and were thrilled to enjoy a night at The Alida, the newest hotel to become a part of the historic district in Savannah.

Located at the west- end of River Street, this gorgeous hotel boasts scenic views, amazing cuisine, and architecture that is inspired by the ships traveling through the Savannah River, just outside the hotel. The hotel is at the end of River Street that had not been used in the past few years. Thanks to The Alida and a current project, The Plant Riverside District, the west-end of River Street has gotten a much needed face lift and is offering new and exciting things to both tourists and locals.

Upon walking into our room, I was immediately drawn to the large window seat. It boasted a gorgeous view of the city and was the perfect spot to read a book or just enjoy the ships passing through. The window seat was also a unique way of hiding your storage. There was a closet located at each end of the window seat and drawers were located under the seat itself. I really like this because it allowed the room more opportunity for free space. There was no need for a dresser so you could move about more easily within the room. I feel like this is so important when staying in a hotel because your room can often times start to feel confining. The unique use of storage and the large windows really helped the room to feel more open and an all together more inviting experience.

On each floor of the hotel you can find a water station. I really like this idea because you were able to pick from tap, sparkling or still water, and take as much or as little as you like. Fruit was also available, as well as an ice machine. I have never seen anything like this in another hotel and it was a nice treat to have cool, sparkling water, anytime I like. This is a free service and just a way for you to feel more at home.

The Trade Room

Venturing down from our room, we made a stop at the lobby bar, The Trade Room.

The Trade Room is conveniently located within the lobby of The Alida and is available for guests or anyone just wanting a drink. I used this opportunity to order one of the bar’s signature cocktails, the Strawberry-Ginger Phosphate. This drink had just the right amount of sweetness and was a refreshing treat. The ginger gave the drink the perfect bite and it all came together for very enjoyable experience. While sitting at the bar, we made friends with some other hotel guests, a few of which had their dogs with them. We were delighted to see that The Alida was a dog friendly hotel. Whether you want to stay with your dog, or just stop in with them for a drink, your four-legged babies are always welcome.

Just outside The Trade Room is some adorable outdoor seating. It had two fire pits to keep you warm on those colder nights and just looked like the perfect place to hang out with friends and enjoy a drink. Out here you can also find the hotel pool. While it was too cold to swim, I couldn’t help but check everything out. I was in love with the cute little cabanas. They will be the perfect spot to relax through our hot summer months.  Plenty of seating was available to work on your tan or just enjoy the view. There was also a Pool Bar that is open on warmer days serving refreshing drinks and light bites.

Dinner at Rhett

After a drink, we were getting hungry so we used that opportunity to check out the hotel restaurant, Rhett. The best way to describe Rhett would be an upscale diner. I want you to picture your favorite, small town diner and then give it a touch of elegance.

That is Rhett.

The cozy booths, plastic cups, and comfort foods really help you to feel at home but the elegance in the atmosphere leaves you feeling fancy. The architecture in the restaurant is one of the best places to really get a feel for the ships coming down the Savannah River.

We happened to be visiting the restaurant right in the heart of Restaurant Week, so we were able to sample 3 courses of the menus signature items at a fixed price or just order off the menu. I opted for the 3 courses while Justin just ordered off the menu. We both started our meals with the Wedge Salad. It was perfectly crisp, beautifully dressed and the dressing was definitely homemade.

For our main courses, I went with the Roasted Pork. The pork sat on a bed of collards and was served with fingerling potatoes, boiled peanuts and chilis. Each flavor complemented the next and I wish I had more of those boiled peanuts. Justin went with the Burger American. He is very picky when it comes to his food and he said it was the best burger that he has eaten in a long time. We both cleaned our plates.

For my final course, I went with the Chocolate Mousse. It was rich, creamy and just the right size serving. Served with a homemade cookie, it was the perfect ending to an amazing meal.

The Lost Square

After dinner, there is always room for one more drink, so we headed upstairs to check out the rooftop bar, The Lost Square.

This bar boasts an amazing view of the city and the Savannah River. It is the perfect place to end a night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two. With a large fireplace, heat lamps, and comfy seating, you are sure to stay warm on those cooler nights while good drinks and even better conversation, warm your soul. The Lost Square was definitely the highlight of our stay because it just had an amazing atmosphere. Around the corner from the bar is also a large area available to rent for parties or events.

KEEP Shop

Savannah is known for some amazing, local shopping, but you don’t have to leave the hotel to see all that is to offer. Keep Shop is located inside the lobby of The Alida and has custom Stetson hats, Satchel leather goods, Salacia Salts apothecary and Element Clay Studio ceramics. You can also find items that you may have left at home, but with an upscale twist. Pretty, gold nail clippers, natural toothpaste, and unique bobby pins, are just a few of the things that you can find lining the shelves of Keep Shop. They also have fun toys for your little ones. My personal favorite item from the shop is The Alida Signature Candle. As you walk through the hotel, you will notice their signature smell. I am not exactly sure what the combination is, but it is amazing. The signature candle smells exactly like that scent so you can literally take a piece of The Alida home with you. A candle definitely came home with me and it makes my house smell so good. If you buy anything during your stay, I strongly encourage you to take a candle home with  you.

Also located within the lobby is plenty of sitting areas. Come in from the heat and have a drink, read a book in one of the window seats, or just sit back and people watch. It is also a great place to take all the Instagram photos. There is literally something around every corner just screaming to be photographed. Whatever you decide, there is space available for you to make yourself at home.

Justin and I enjoyed every aspect of our stay at The Alida. The staff was welcoming, the hotel was gorgeous, and the food was amazing. I am so thankful that we had the opportunity to experience so much that this new Savannah staple has to offer. We are already planning on taking our friends out to dinner at Rhett and will definitely be grabbing a drink at one of the bars. Whether you are planning a trip to Savannah or just looking for somewhere to enjoy a staycation, I cannot recommend The Alida enough.

Disclaimer: My stay at The Alida and meal at Rhett was comped by the hotel, but all opinions are my own.

Serenity at Spa Bleu: The Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift

Last year for Mother’s Day, I told my sweet husband that what I wanted more than anything, was a day of pampering. He asked me where he should book the appointment and I knew right away that I wanted to go to Spa Blue.

Nestled off the corner of Broughton Street in Savannah, GA is the home of my favorite spa in the city. A short elevator ride to the second floor and I am immediately at peace. A calm, quiet atmosphere just washes my stress away, and I am immediately relaxed, if only for a few hours.

While my husband did get me a package for Mother’s Day last year, a series of unfortunate events, and the ever busy schedule of a Mom, caused me to have to continually reschedule my appointment. I was finally able to visit on my Thanksgiving Break last year, hence the Christmas decor, and it was exactly what I needed to de-stress over my break. The reason I am writing this post now is because I cannot imagine a better gift to give the mom’s in your life than a spa package. Whether they have a day job or stay home, the job of a mother never ends. There is always a dish to be washed, a lunch to be packed, laundry to be folded or a nose to be wiped. We give hugs, wipe tears, kiss boo-boos, and finally drag ourselves to bed well after the rest of the house. We deserve a day of pampering! I am not complaining. I love my life as a Mom, but it is nice to take a step back and focus on myself, if only for a few hours.

Honestly though, a spa package is a good gift for the Mom in your life on any occasion. Whether it is for Christmas, birthday, or just because, I encourage you to spoil the ladies in your life! I can promise that they will thank you!

Now that you have the perfect gift in mind, let’s get back to my spa of choice. I love Spa Bleu because it is a locally owned business that takes cares of all of your pampering needs. They are always offering some sort of special package and that is exactly what my husband took advantage of last Mother’s Day. My package included an hour massage, a facial and a pedicure. I was able to have a few hours to myself to just enjoy my services and finally relax. Besides the service that I mentioned, they also offer manicures, body wraps and scrubs, waxing, spray tanning, hair and makeup. They also have a variety of products available for purchase so you can continue your treatments even after your services have ended.

All of the staff that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting has been super helpful and knowledgeable. The took the time to talk to me, let me know about the services I would be receiving, and address any concerns that I had. I have almost always gone home with samples of products to try and I have always left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

For Mother’s Day this year, Spa Bleu is offering two packages. The first is the Mommy Dearest package. This is a 2 hour treatment package that mom is sure to enjoy. Mommy Dearest will have her choice between a one hour Swedish Relaxation Massage or Organic Skin Specific Facial. This delightful package also includes her choice of Organic Aromatherapy AND a Spa Pedicure. Mom is welcome to spend as long as she likes in the relaxation lounge after her treatments and enjoy some tea or coffee. Includes a fresh flower and spa treats!

The next package is the Mom & Me. I love this package because it is treat that you can enjoy with your Mom.  The base package allows you to relax together and spend some quality time with Mom! Both of you will receive Customized Massages with your choice of Organic Aromatherapy. You will be together the entire time. After your massage, you are welcome to take your time together in the relaxation lounge. It also includes fresh flowers and spa treats! With this package you also have the option of adding Organic Skin Specific Facials, Organic Dead Sea Salt Scrubs and a Light Lunch & Tea Service, for an additional charge.

Spa Bleu is also proud to offer a variety of products from many local businesses. You can shop products from the Savannah Bee Company, Little Barn Apothecary, Morgan Taylor, Mable Rose Candles and Votivo. Any of these options would be a perfect additional gift to add with Mom’s spa treatments!

Whether you are hoping to treat a special Mom in your life, looking for gift ideas for yourself, or just looking to treat yourself to a little pampering, I strongly encourage you to consider Spa Bleu. From the atmosphere, to the people, to the services, I enjoyed every aspect of my visit and will definitely be back. I think I may even ask the Hubs for another day of pampering this Mother’s Day. I could really use a little rest and relaxation and I know that Spa Bleu will take care of all of needs.

Let me know if you decided to book an appointment! I always love hearing from you and would love to learn about what treatments you received! Make sure to tell them that Being Mrs. Fowler sent you!

Disclaimer: This is NOT a sponsored post. I truly love supporting local businesses and enjoyed every aspect of my visit. I will definitely be visiting again and I hope that my posts encourages others to visit as well!

 

The Grove: A New Savannah Staple

One of my favorite things about Savannah is all of the yummy, local cuisine. We have a lot of truly amazing restaurants that feature unique dishes, friendly atmospheres, and some great views of the city. Our newest addition, The Grove, is no exception and is already making waves in our little community.

Over my Spring Break I called up my sweet friend Amy Darley of the YouTube channel Team Darley to see if she wanted to join me for lunch. She had been eager to try it out as well so we met on a Thursday for lunch with an open mind and empty bellies. We were immediately blown away by the building. It is striking and modern with crisp white, black pops, and lots of doors and windows. On nice days you can find all of the doors open making the atmosphere even more inviting. One of the first things that you are sure to notice is the tiled floor. It has quickly become one of the most Instagrammed spots in Savannah and it is easy to see why. It pulls you into the building and just encourages you to pull up a seat and stay for a while.

When we visited they were still operating on an abbreviated menu. We quickly made our choices and then sat back to enjoy the ambiance and architecture. We both knew that we wanted to get the Honey Drizzled Fries. It with just the right amount of sweetness mixed with a hint of jalapeno, creating the perfect glaze on a salty and crisp french fry. I could have probably eaten my weight in them! For my meal I got the Savannah Salad. It was light, refreshing and made complete by the tastiest candied pecans. Truly a southern staple. Amy selected The Grove Burger and she said that it was so good. We both cleaned our plates, a sure sign that the food was delicious!

Now that the full menu is complete, I personally cannot wait to head back and taste the Low Country Kale, Forsyth Fried Okra, and the Veggie Burger!

After we finished our meal, we took a tour of the building. The restaurant consists of three stories. The first flour was the main dining room where we ate. There is a large bar area in the main dining room, but there is also a second bar area off the side of the restaurant. This bar area has large doors that are opened up to City Market on nice days. There is also outdoor seating so you can enjoy your meal while taking in the hustle and bustle of City Market. The second floor was a space that was available to use for meeting and parties. It housed large, comfy chairs, a bar area, and a large table with plenty of seating. The final floor was the rooftop bar and it is definitely the shining star of the entire restaurant. Large doors are opened out onto the deck with a perfect view overlooking City Market. There is a bar, comfy couch style seating and high-top tables. This is sure to become one of the busiest spots for Savannah night life and I cannot wait to head up there for Date Night and drinks with my husband in the very near future.

The Grove truly is the perfect addition to our charming little town. It is located in a central location and has something to meet all the needs of its guests. Whether you are dining with your family (I brought Vivi with me!), hanging out with girlfriends, or just enjoying a Date Night, The Grove is the perfect place to enjoy a great meal in the perfect atmosphere. If you are local, be sure to stop in and check it out, and if you are a visiting then you definitely need to add it to your to-do list! Either way, be sure to tell them that Being Mrs. Fowler sent you! I promise that you will not be disappointed!

My Outfit Details & Similar Styles:

Top | Pants | Shoes | Handbag | Earrings | Sunglasses

Disclaimer: This is NOT a sponsored post! I just wanted to share my personal review on a restaurant that I am happy is now a part of our Savannah scene! I will definitely be back to enjoy more things on the menu!

Impeccably Chic: Hanging out at The Impeccable Pig

In the heart of downtown Savannah, nestled among the Oak Trees and Spanish Moss, on the ever busy Broughton Street, just down from H&M, you can find one of the cutest little boutiques, The Impeccable Pig. This little company was started by a mother and daughter team out of Texas and now boasts 21 stores throughout the Southeast, as well as a very successful online presence.

LuLu Off the Shoulder Crop Top

I have to be honest. I only started shopping with them in the last year but once I stepped foot inside, I was hooked. It is a small store so it feels homey and welcoming. The staff is cheerful and inviting, and the adorable clothes and great price points keep you coming back for more. After a lot of chatting back and forth with the store manager, Taylor, we were finally able to put together a Blogger’s Night Out to celebrate the fabulous ladies of Savannah. This Thursday, March 29th, from 6-8pm, join us for a night of sweets and sales. Come shop all of the cute, new spring arrivals for 20% off and enjoy a selection of snacks while you shop. The best part is that I will be there all night to help you pick out outfits, put together pieces and just socialize. I am so excited to meet with all of the fabulous ladies of Savannah and I know it is going to be a great night!

Dolled Up Tassel Hoop Earrings

To get you excited for the event, I have put together some outfits with some of my favorite pieces from the store. I will link all of the items that I am able to their online boutique so that if you are not local you can still shop all of the amazing items! This is only a very small sampling of what is available in-store and on their website so I strongly encourage you to check them out. Everything is so cute and girlie with great details. The pieces are well made and all of them are at great price points. They have the best accessories, perfect for completing any look!

Come say Hi and hang out with us on Thursday! It is sure to be a great night!

Photography courtesy of Taylor Dawn Photography.

Anniversary Staycation Bliss with Hyatt Regency Savannah

I have lived in the beautiful city of Savannah, GA for my entire life. So much of this city is part of my history and has made me the person that I am today. The sights, the smells, the tastes and the sounds all provide to the experience of this Hostess City of the South and make Savannah the place that it is today.

Strangely enough, one of the best places that holds a lot of history, for me, is The Hyatt Regency Hotel. How can a hotel hold history you may be asking. Well, when I was a little girl, my Grandfather was one of the Fire Chiefs in Savannah. Every year we would go with him and attend the firefighter convention at none other than the Hyatt in Savannah. As I got older, I found myself at the Hyatt again to attend my Senior Prom. Finally, once I had entered adulthood, I was able to attend many of my husband’s company Christmas parties at the Hyatt. One hotel was able to provide for me memories through every stage in my life. It makes sense that when I was looking for a hotel to celebrate my husband’s and my anniversary I would look to The Hyatt.

We recently celebrated being married for 3 years and were hoping to have a staycation weekend in Savannah. From the moment that I initially contacted the staff at the Hyatt, they were nothing but welcoming and eager to have us join them at the hotel. They went above and beyond and put us in an amazing suite and had chilled champagne and chocolate covered strawberries waiting for us in the room. After enjoying our snack, we changed clothes to enjoy our anniversary dinner at Moss + Oak. Moss + Oak is the restaurant located inside of the Hyatt. It was one of the more recent renovations to the Hyatt and is definitely one of my favorite places in the hotel. It is a fine dining experience with a family friendly atmosphere. Over the summer, I was lucky enough to try out the restaurant for lunch. You can check out my first experience with Moss + Oak in a previous post. I really love Moss + Oak because the service is great, the food is exceptional and they have an open concept kitchen. This means that you can see the chefs preparing your meal, which is a really neat thing to witness.

For our anniversary dinner, they more than exceeded my expectations and previous experience. We were led to a reserved table and were immediately greeted with two appetizers, the Deviled Eggs and the Boiled Peanut Hummus. Both were exceptional and a perfect, southern start to our meal. Our waitress, Brittney, was super nice and helpful. She spent time with us, got to know us as a couple and was nice enough to take most of our pictures. For dinner, we added another appetizer, the Fried Green Tomatoes with homemade Pimento Cheese and also ordered entrees. Justin went with the Fried Chicken and I had the Salmon. They were both amazing meals that we promptly devoured. My husband, who rarely comments on a meal, said that it was one of the best meals that he had ever eaten. We finished up our meal with Bread Pudding. With dark chocolate chips and hints of banana, it was moist with just the right amount of sweetness and the perfect end to our night. Afterwards, we finished up our drinks around the outdoor fire pits and just enjoyed one another, as well as the view of the Savannah River.

The next morning, we woke up to explore and play tourist in our city. The beds were beyond comfortable and I probably slept better than I had in a while. After getting ready, with a mimosa in hand, we were ready to explore the hotel and go find some breakfast. Our floor of the hotel just happened to be the same floor at the Rooftop Terrace. This is a truly amazing space with a view of the Savannah River. They have lots of fun seating, perfect for sunbathing, catching up with friends, or just watching the boats as they pass under the bridge. If you with rather stay indoors, the hotel lobby has a lot of available seating perfect for reading, watching the news or just enjoying your coffee. With large, floor to ceiling windows you can still enjoy a view of the Savannah River with the comforts of heat or AC.

While we did not take part in these ammenities, the Hyatt also offers Stay Fit and the Hyatt. This is an indoor pool area as well as a gym overlooking River Street. The gym includes treadmills, weights, spin bikes and other equipment. It was a very nice area that is perfect if you are wishing to stay active while away from home.

The hotel also offers access to both River Street and Bay Street so you can easily get to some of the biggest tourist spots in Savannah. While they do not have self-parking, they have a very spacious underground parking garage with valet parking. The great thing about Savannah is that you can walk everywhere. We stayed at the Hyatt for an entire weekend and never once took our car. We walked everywhere and on one occasion we took a pedicab. It is a very tourist friendly city and was perfect for our weekend getaway.

As far as anniversary weekends go, this was definitely one to remember. Justin and I enjoyed every minute of our staycation weekend in Savannah. It was so nice to just get away and enjoy one another’s company. It was also nice to explore Downtown Savannah. Having grown up here, it is very easy to take for granted just how beautiful of a city that we are able to live. It was nice to experience that beauty and do it all within the comforts of an amazing hotel. The Hyatt Regency Hotel of Savannah is truly an incredible business that adds so much to our city. I am thankful that I was able to add another memory with this hotel to my life. I can’t recommend the staff and services at the Hyatt enough. If you are visiting Savannah, celebrating an anniversary, or just looking to getaway, I highly recommend the Hyatt. We will definitely be back the next time we needs a weekend away!

Disclaimer: The first photo featured in this post was retrieved from a Google search. The rest of the pictures were taken with my personal camera. I received dinner and a night stay at the Hyatt in exchange for this post but all opinions are my own.

Book with Brooke: A Hair Transformation with Brooke Marie

Do you ever just reach the point with your hair that you know you desperately need a change? That was the point that I had reached.

While I loved my super blonde locks, my hair was growing out leaving me with unsightly roots. After weaning my daughter from nursing this past summer my hair was still falling out in clumps but I was also getting new growth from when I lost my hair after baby. The result was a thin, straggly (is that even a word) mess, with severely damaged ends, that had constant flyaways thanks to all of my baby hairs.

I called up my good friend and hair stylist and, being the amazing woman that she is, she was able to squeeze me in the next night. I was thrilled!

I told her exactly what I wanted, showed her a few inspiration photos, and then we got to work.

The first thing that Brooke did was darken up my roots. This was going to help keep my hair looking fresh as my hair continued to grow. It would give it a natural ombre and help prolong my visits to the salon. Then she added some gorgeous blonde highlights to brighten everything up and frame my face.

Once she had finished the color, I had to sit under the dryer to speed up the coloring process. The drying room was the cutest little space. From the colorful rug to the art on the wall, it was the perfect place to enjoy your drying time. The art on the wall was actually painted by one of the hairstylists at the salon making them that much more special. After the drying was finished, it was time for toner and good wash!

Then it was time for the fun part! With a quick snip, a chunk of my hair was gone. It was fun, freeing and instantly made me feel so much better. She shaped it up, blew it dry and gave me some loose, wavy curls. The result was amazing and I was thrilled with the results.

If you are local to Savannah, I encourage you to “Book with Brooke.” She is located at The Salon at McCall Plaza in Rincon, GA. She is also available for weddings, proms or any other event that you may need!

Let me know what you think of my results! You know that I always love to hear from you!

 

Best of Savannah Gift Guide

Christmas truly is the most magical time of the year and here in Savannah, we definitely know how to do it right. From fully decorated river boats adorned with Santa, to completely edible Gingerbread displays, this is one time of the year where Savannah can do no wrong. And amidst the moss covered oaks and a hint of salt air, nestled along our perfect squares and busy streets, you can find some of the cutest shops, perfect for all of your gift giving needs.

I have compiled a list of some of my absolute favorite shops in Savannah. Each one adds its own charm and whimsy to our beautiful city and offers shoppers more than just products. They offer an experience. I encourage you to check out these amazing small businesses and find something perfect to finish off everyone on your list!

Goorin Brothers Hat Shop

Nestled in on the bustling street of Broughton, you can find Goorin Brother’s Hat Shop. I have to admit that this store was a very recent find for me. While shopping at a few of my favorite stores on the same block, I couldn’t help but notice a display of gorgeous hats in the window. Recently, I have come to love wearing hats. I feel like they add something special to any outfit and are truly the perfect fall accessory. They can also put off washing your hair by a day or two and that is amazing for this super busy Mom!

While Goorin is not a local business, they are part of a very small chain of  hat stores that carry hats for men, women and children. They have numerous hats to choose from and they even boast a line that is made right here is the U.S. The inside is quaint and instantly reminds you of an antique shop. I loved being able to try on all of the hats in their large mirrors. The hats come in different widths so you can be sure that you are getting a hat that will fit your head!

This little shop is perfect for that hard to shop for person on your list. With a wide array of hats, you are sure to meet everyone’s needs! Not local to Savannah? No problem! They have a full inventory available on their website so that you can get a perfect hat wherever it is that you may live. I encourage you to check out all of their options and find something that is perfect suited to your style.

Nourish

If you pass outside of Nourish on Broughton Street, you can’t help but notice the amazing smell of lavender, honey, and other amazing scents. What you are smelling is a full line of homemade bath products that are made locally, right here in Savannah. Not only are they locally made but they are also all natural. I think it is so important to know what is in the products that you are using and at Nourish you never have to worry about their ingredients.

In store they have a full line of bath bombs, soaps, shower gels and lotions. With a wide variety of scents you are sure to find something for everyone on your list. While I love the bath bombs, my personal favorite is the line of baby products. I don’t want anything harsh or fake on my little girls delicate skin and I love that products from Nourish are free from chemicals. Besides their locally made products, they also sell a variety of other natural bath accessories so they really have everything to meet all of your essential needs. While they have a few locations to shop locally in Savannah, they also sell all of their products online if you are not local. I encourage you to check them out and order yourself a bath bomb, or six!

fab’rik

Also on Brought Street, you can find one of my absolute favorite clothing stores, fab’rik. While fab’rik is technically not a local small business, they are a small chain of franchise boutiques throughout the south. While there are other locations, the majority of them are sprinkled throughout the South East corner of the United States. Since it is a franchise, I love that you are still supporting a family instead of a large corporation. Fab’rik boasts a variety of clothes, shoes, jewelry and accessories, all priced at less than $100. The one exception to this would be their assortment of high quality jeans and Spanx leggings.

At our store, the girls are super nice and very helpful. They almost always have a special and have a large clearance section so that you can always find a good deal. The pieces in store are unique and unlike other items in similar boutiques. I love the fit of the clothes and that I can always look my best without breaking the bank. While the main location is on Broughton Street, they can frequently be found at different events hosting a pop-up boutique, making their items even easier to acquire. Since fab’rik is a chain of stores, they have all of their items available to shop on their website so that you can order a gift for all of the ladies on your list without ever having to leave home.

RMC Boutique

Another adorable clothing boutique that I love to shop is RMC Boutique. Owned and operated by my good friend Rosa, RMC is a true small business that supports people right here in our community. What started as a hobby, became a passion and career for Rosa. She quickly outgrew her original location on Broughton Street and built RMC into the amazing boutique that it is today. Located at the end of Bay Street, RMC is sure to carry something for everyone on your list.

This time of year, my favorite thing that RMC carries is a variety of comfy leggings and cozy oversized sweaters. I also love the I can walk in and find something for any event that I may be attending. I have found birthday outfits, outfits for a night out and even outfits to wear to blogger events. I love that my money is supporting a friend who is putting money right back into our community. Besides the amazing clothing options, RMC is also the only business in Savannah that has a license to sell Kendra Scott, other than the Kendra Scott located on Broughton. This is actually where I was able to buy my very first Kendra Scott piece and start my love for this designer. RMC also has a license to sell Loren Hope, Savannah Bee Company, and does embroidery in house. It really is a one-stop-shop for all of your gift-giving needs. If you are not local, you can shop everything online at their website that is updated daily!

Savannah’s Candy Kitchen

What is a gift guide without something to satisfy your sweet tooth? On the beautiful, historic waterfront of River Street you can find Savannah’s Candy Kitchen. As soon as you approach the store, you are instantly hit with the smells of chocolate, caramel and popcorn. With an expansive store, laying out across four different rooms, you can literally find every candy imaginable. They are also always giving out free samples so you can taste away until you find the exact sweet to satisfy your craving.

Upon entering, you can see employees hard at work scooping homemade ice cream, popping homemade caramel corn, and coating apple and rice krispies with chocolate, caramel and other yummy toppings. Crossing into the next room, you find workers pulling taffy in all flavors with a large assortment of tins to fill with this sweet treat. The next room is my personal favorite because that is where you can find all of the pralines, candy apples, chocolate coated marshmallows, candied nuts, and so much more. You can always get a taste of pralines in this room and they also have a variety of baskets already wrapped up, perfect for gifting. The last room is lined with every bulk candy imaginable. They have huge barrels of sweets and a wall of nostalgia candy that is sure to satisfy everyone.

Not local to Savannah? No problem! You can order many of their yummy treats online! These yummy treats will be the perfect stocking stuffers for everyone on your list!

Cutter’s Point Coffee

For my final recommendation, I have to mention Cutter’s Point Coffee. Located on Skidaway Island on the Southside of Savannah, this is quaint little coffee shop that is perfect for catching up with friends, meeting after church, or studying for a big test. The rich aroma of coffee waifs through the air as you order a drink and get comfy in one of their chairs. They also have a convenient drive-thru window so you never even have to leave your car to get your caffeine.

My personal favorite treat to order from Cutter’s Point is their Chai Lattes. While I originally would drink them with Soy Milk, I have since changed to Almond Milk and the drink is just as yummy. Besides their coffee drinks, comforting teas, and delicious baked treats, they also sell ground coffee and coffee mugs. These items are perfect for office gifts, a hostess treat, or just something to keep at the house for all of your holiday guests. While you won’t be able to order an Iced Caramel Macchiato to be delivered to your house,  wouldn’t that be nice, you can check out their online shop to order ground coffee, K-Cups, mugs and gift cards!

I hope you have enjoyed my “Best of Savannah” gift options. These are all business that I personally love and regularly frequent. I know that you will be able to find something for so many people on your list so I definitely encourage you to check each one of them out. If you are local to Savannah, stop in and say “Hi” and make sure to tell them that Being Mrs. Fowler sent you. Make sure to leave me a comment if you decide to make a purchase! I would love to know your personal picks!

Happy Holidays!

Disclaimer: While these are my personal picks, I was compensated for my time and promotion of these businesses with items from their shops.

A Savannah Gem: Kristen Baird Jewelry

One of the things that I love most about Savannah is that it has “big city” vibes with all of the charms of a small town. Many people have grown up here their entire lives while others fall in love with the Southern charm and hospitality and decide to never leave.

One of the biggest things that brings people to Savannah is the Savannah College of Art and Design. One of these people is Kristen Baird.

I had the privilege of meeting Kristen from a group that we are both a member of called Savannah Influencers. Kristen is the owner of Kristen Baird Jewelry based right here in Savannah. You can find her fine jewelry nestled between our moss covered oaks and a big tall glass of sweet tea. I instantly fell in love with her winning smile and amazing talent, and I could not wait to do a feature on her for the blog!

Taken from Kristen’s website, “While our city is picturesque and laid back, here at Kristen Baird, we are on a mission! Our mission is to create meaningful, beautifully designed and skillfully crafted pieces of jewelry relevant to each stage of your life. That’s right, you are the driving force behind what we do!Whether it be helping you create your proposal moment with our bridal collection or celebrate a milestone like an anniversary or birthday with a piece from our signature collection, we want to be there for you and with you all along the way!”

Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, Kristen decided to plant her roots in Savannah, Georgia after graduating from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) with a bachelor’s degree in Jewelry Design. While going to SCAD, she was honored as a Valedictorian nominee, a Presidential Scholarship Recipient, and received the Outstanding Achievement award in Jewelry Design.

With a desire to continue learning and wanting to hone in on her craft, Kristen received her Rhino CAD Certificate and attended the renowned New Approach School for Jewelers, completing the Graduate Bench Jeweler program under the direction of world-class instructor, Blaine Lewis. In 2015, she decided to start her own business, Kristen Baird Jewelry.

Celebrating a Top 5 finish in the 2016 Halstead Grant sponsored by Halstead Bead followed by a selection for Generation NEXT: Savannah’s Rising Stars of Business, Class of 2017 sponsored by Savannah Magazine, Kristen and her brand have been on the rise in both the local business scene as well as the national jewelry scene.

Where does she get her inspiration you ask?

“From the mountains of Virginia and hills of Tennessee to the coast of Georgia, Kristen Baird Jewelry designs pay homage to the waters, landscapes, and flora that bring to life the scenes of the South that Kristen has called home. In a time where mass manufacturing is predominant, Kristen and her team utilize and preserve traditional metalsmithing skills, as they delicately and precisely craft each piece by hand in the Kristen’s Savannah-based studio. Using sterling silver, recycled 18K gold, and ethically sourced gemstones, Kristen’s jewelry is full of color and texture with juxtaposing forms both geometric and fluid, as though the designs might have sprung organically from the natural world. Featuring pieces, like the Ripple Ring, that can be customized to fit the desires of an individual client, Kristen’s work speaks to the eco-conscious shopper that loves products with a story and a unique, customizable aesthetic.”

Pieces from Kristen Baird are displayed and sold at the Kessler Collection Grand Bohemian Galleries and have been featured in high-end publications, such as Savannah Magazine, Charleston Magazine, Charleston Style & Design, Paprika Southern, Virginia Living, Lark Books, and more.

Kristen was kind enough to invite me into her studio. It was such a unique experience to get the behind the scenes tour. To see what she starts with, and then see the finished product, I was able to witness her talent firsthand. She has so many gorgeous pieces ranging from sterling silver to fine jewelry. Want a fun fact about Kristen? Her husband bought her diamond and then gave her the freedom to design her own engagement ring. How fun would that be to design your own ring? While I loved everything she showed me, my personal favorite was the honeycomb ring with matching earrings. You can get it in silver and gold and, hopefully soon, rose gold!

I encourage you to check out her work and select a piece to add to your own jewelry collection. You can be sure that you will have a unique, hand crafted piece that is sure to stand out and make a statement.

Want to see the jewelry in person? You can check out Kristen and her work at the Telfair Art Show .  She will also have a show in Charlotte in October and another show in Savannah at the Grand Bohemian in the Fall. Check back with her website and blog for specific dates for those events.

 

Want to get in touch with Kristen or check out her work? Just click on one of the links below!

Website: https://www.kristenbaird.com/

Where to Shop: https://www.kristenbaird.com/pages/galleries

Kristen’s Blog: https://www.kristenbaird.com/blogs/news

Social Media Tags: @kristenbairdjewelry (Insta), @kristenbairdjewelry (FB)

I hope you will consider checking out this Savannah gem! She is a true asset to our community and so very talented! I know you will love whatever you decide to purchase from her collection!

Lunch Like a Local with Moss + Oak Savannah Eatery

Recently, I had the privilege of being invited to have lunch at the brand new restaurant Moss + Oak Savannah Eatery. Moss + Oak is the newest addition the newly renovated Hyatt Regency in Downtown Savannah, Georgia. The Hyatt was one of the first hotels to plant roots along the gorgeous Savannah River on Bay Street. It has been an institution in Savannah for as long as I can remember so I was excited to see that it was going through major renovations to keep up with the bustling economy.

While all of the guest rooms were renovated a few years ago, the restaurant, entrance, and lobby renovations are the newest, and in my opinion, most exciting projects for the Hyatt. I was eager to see all of the changes and try the cuisine at the highly talked about Moss + Oak. If visiting, you can gain access to the restaurant from Bay Street or from River Street. We entered from the main entrance on Bay Street.

Upon arriving, I was greeted by the friendliest host and wait staff. Everyone was eager to help me out and make sure that all of my needs were met. We quickly got a seat and were told about the specials. Accompanying me on my visit was my good friends Mary Elaine of Its Mary Elaine and Carrie of Magnolia Blossom Photography. We placed our drink and food orders and then went outside to check out patio. Our good friend Julia of Glitter and Juls was also enjoying the restaurant so she was able to join us outside to enjoy the view.

The patio boasts gorgeous views of the Savannah River with comfy lounge seating and fire pits. While sitting outside we had the privilege to meet and chat with head chef, James Morin. He was so nice and incredibly humble. With a little prying, we were able to get him to open up about the work that he has done for the restaurant. Having been on board from the beginning, he had a hand in so many details of Moss + Oak and it is evident when you talk to him. If you are lucky enough to get the chance to talk to him, you can see his eyes light up when he talks about his food. It is clear that he is passionate about his work. He created a menu that brings together so many different flavors to create the perfect eating experience. The sight of the food mixed with the smell and taste truly satiates all of your senses. When you combine that with the atmosphere of the restaurant, you get a truly unique dining experience.

We started our meal with the She Crab Soup and Fried Green Tomatoes.  Mary Elaine ordered the soup and she said it was super creamy with an amazing flavor. It is one of the most ordered things on the menu and she said it was easy to see why. We shared the Fried Green Tomatoes and I highly recommend that you order them when you visit. Hands down, these were the best Fried Green Tomatoes that I have ever eaten. So many amazing flavors in one dish. For our main course, Mary Elaine and Carrie both got the Burger with Sweet Potato Tots and I got Chicken and Waffles. My portion was very generous and was more than enough food. My meal featured flavors that I have never had in a Chicken and Waffles, making each bite even more enjoyable. I ate way more food than I care to admit because it was just that good. I literally could not stop eating. Mary Elaine and Carrie both enjoyed their burgers and tots and cleaned their plates!

I highly recommend Moss + Oak if you are local to Savannah or if you are visiting the area. One of the great things that Moss + Oak is currently offering is their Lunch Like a Local campaign. If you visit anytime during the lunch hour until September 30th, 2017 and show a valid Georgia ID they will give you 20% off your entree! As long as your ID is from the state of Georgia you will be able to receive the discount on your visit. This is truly an amazing deal for an even more amazing restaurant. I encourage you to check them out and take advantage of this amazing deal. I can assure you that you will be back again and again to enjoy the exquisite cuisine. They really do have something for everyone!

Photography Courtesy of Magnolia Blossom Photography.

Disclaimer: It was invited to eat at the restaurant, free of charge, in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own.

Southern Sugaring: Ripping the Taboo out from the Roots

Summer is finally here and that means that certain things should be thought about more often. The first thing that came to my mind was a bikini wax.

It may be a little taboo to talk about, but the truth is that a lot of women and men take part in this activity.

I have to admit that I was completely new to the world of waxing. I have always wanted to get one done but have either been to scared, to modest or to embarrassed. After having a baby, though, I no longer worried about modesty or embarrassment so I knew it was time to rip off the bandage… or wax!

I recently saw that Southern Sugaring of Savannah, Georgia was looking for models to train a new sugarista. For donating your time, and your bikini line hair, you would receive a free bikini wax. I jumped at this opportunity. I figured what did I have to lose, besides a lot of unwanted hair. My sweet friend Jessica Mock is the owner and head sugarista at Southern Sugaring so I knew that I would be in good hands.

My actual bikini wax was done by Misha. She was very professional and knowledgable about the sugaring process. Since she was technically training, Jessica was their to assist if a problem or question should arise.

You make have noticed that I keep mentioning the word sugaring. That is because this process does not use your typical bikini wax. Sugaring is actually a mixture of sugar, lemon and hot water that has been used for centuries to rid the body of unwanted hair. Because all of the ingredients are natural, the sugar substance actually binds to the hair instead of the skin. This allows for a more gentle hair removal that is much easier on your skin. Since it adheres to the hair, it really gets the hair out from deep at the root, prolonging your smooth, hair free skin.

At this time, they currently offer sugaring services for bikini line, arms, legs, brows, face and arm pits. I had my brows done by Southern Sugaring at another event and, to this day, it is one of the best, longest lasting brow treatments that I have ever had done.

Southern Sugaring also sells a wide array of gorgeous swimsuits, sexy lingerie, fun t-shirts and perfect sunglasses. They really are a one-stop-shop to meet all of your must have girlie needs!

But let’s get back to why I visited in the first place, my bikini sugaring. Let’s be honest. I was beyond nervous at first. The thought of stripping off your skivvies is never easy, even when a service is being performed at a very professional establishment. I was sweating bullets and I knew that was not going to help my sugaring treatment. Misha and Jessica did an absolutely amazing job of calming my nerves. They remained professional throughout the entire treatment and really helped to take my mind off of what was happening below my Mason-Dixon line. (Don’t you just love all of the jokes!)

Seriously though, all joking aside, the procedure was really not that bad. I am not going to lie to you and tell you that it was super easy and completely pain free but, it was much less painful than what I was expecting and the pain was quick. Once the sugar had ripped out the hair the pain subsided quickly. Jessica told me that if you stay on the recommended 3-4 week sugaring schedule, the process will get easier and less painful each time. She said that it is almost like your body knows what is coming so the area being sugared will become numb to what is happening sooner.

I got my treatment done on June 10th and now, on June 20th, my hair is just now beginning to grow back! I have never been without hair that I didn’t have to keep in check for that long. Not only that, but my skin stayed smooth and free from bumps. As I continue to get sugared, my results will last even longer and my skin will stay even smoother. I was so pleased with the results and the experience that I booked my next appointment before I left. I am even considering sugaring my arm pits and brows on a regular occasion. Even though my service was free this time, I highly recommend this service and all of the staff at Southern Sugaring. They were all completely professional and as sweet as a tall glass of southern sweet tea. This will be a treatment that I will continue to receive and will not mind paying. I don’t know about you, but a hair free bikini line that lasts more than a day is definitely worth a few extra dollars each month.

If you are local to Savannah, or visiting anytime soon, I encourage you to call up the ladies at Southern Sugaring to take care of all your hair removal needs. Follow them on Facebook or Instagram to stay in the know and let them know that I sent you!