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.

A Letter to my Students

Today was the first day of school.

This is my 9th year of teaching but I don’t feel like a pro by any means. I am always learning, always growing, and forever changing something. For this reason, I still get super nervous on the day before the first day.

The night before the first day of school I always have a hard time sleeping. I feel like a kid on Christmas morning. I am full of so many different emotions that I find it almost impossible to sleep. I feel excitement for the new memories I will make, nervousness for the possibility of problems, and even a little fear. Being a teacher is hard. We are expected to be so much for our students and perform so many different jobs. It can be both mentally and physically exhausting. There have been many times that I considered giving up but I persevered. I focused on the fact that I felt like I had been given a gift to teach. I focused on the fact that my smiling face and warm hugs may the only ones that they would receive all year. I focused on the fact that my words of encouragement could help them through the most impossible of situations. Now here I am, about to begin my 9th year of teaching and I am just as nervous as I was during year one. I know, however, that I am not alone in feeling these nerves. I know that there are 25+ Kindergarten babies getting ready to come to school and see me on their very first day, that are feeling those exact same nerves. So since I found it hard to sleep, I decided to write a letter to my new students.

To My Kindergarten Babies,

Let me start by saying that I am honored to be your teacher. God put us in each other’s lives for a reason I am so excited to see His perfect plan unfold. I know that with His help and guidance, this is going to be a great year.

I can imagine that you are unbelievably scared and nervous. It must be hard to enter such a big school, leaving your Mom, Dad, and younger sibling behind to learn all about your letters and numbers. So many of you have never attended PreK so I can imagine that this is very overwhelming. I want you to know that is perfectly normal to feel scared and nervous. I feel those same emotions every time I step foot into this classroom. I try so hard to be the best teacher possible for you and that can be a very exhausting job. I am constantly making plans, finding resources, and changing around my classroom to make sure that you are getting the best from me. It is very scary to think that if I make a mistake, I am held directly responsible for potentially messing up your education. I would NEVER want anything like that to happen so I am always trying to be my best for you.

When I say that I am going to be my best, I mean that I am going to be the best in all that I do. First and foremost, I am going to be the best teacher possible, but I will not stop at just teaching. I am going to be friend to you when someone says something that may not be so nice. I am going to be your nurse and bandage your knee when you fall down. I am going to be your coach and encourage you to do your best. I am going to be like a Mother and hug you when you are sad.

I promise to be all that you need me to be in the few hours that you are with me each day. Life is hard but I will try so hard to make it that much better for you. Please know that if I do have to fuss, I am coming from a place of love and compassion. I only want what is best from you and sometimes that means that we have to stop playing and listen. I hope you never feel like I don’t care because in truth, I love each of you as if you were my own children. I promise to do everything I possibly can to keep you safe and healthy while you are in my care. In our classroom we are a family.

If you get upset, I ask that you please tell me. I want to know if I have hurt your feelings so that I can make necessary changes to be better for you. I am not perfect and will make mistakes so I hope that you will teach me and help me to be better during those times. Just as you will need me, I will also need you.

Even though we will only be together for a short time, our lives will forever be touched by one another and for that, I thank you. The chance to be your teacher is already making me into a better person. You are impacting my life more than you will ever know and I will remember each and every one of you for many years.

I leave you with one final thought. Today, you are beginning your educational journey. You are about to spend the next thirteen years learning and discovering who you want to make of your life. I want to encourage you to dream big. I want you to become more than you ever could have imagined. Today is the first day of the rest of your life and you have a chance to make it into anything. Never give up, work hard, and always persevere. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that are not enough. You don’t need that negativity in your life. I want you to remember that I think you are enough. You are smart, loving, and kind and are going to grow up to be an amazing person. Don’t ever forget that! And if for some reason you do forget, come back and see me and I will try to help you remember.

Today is the first day of the rest of your life and I believe that you are going to become a truly phenomenal person.

And one more time so you don’t forget, you are enough.

Mrs. Fowler

To all of my teacher friends, and all of the other teachers in the world, I wish you all an amazing school year. I hope that you and your students grow in more ways than you ever thought possible. With the right encouragement, we really can mold these little minds to change the world and that is truly amazing!

Pink Hues and Life Updates

Hello my Beautiful Friends! Life has been so absolutely crazy lately and I just wanted to take the time to fill all of you in!

First up, I am done with school for the summer! Teaching is hard and definitely a stressful job so I always look forward to those few weeks in the summer when I can take some time for myself. We have a family vacation to Disney planned in just one short week, we are planning to go to Charleston for my birthday, and I am hoping that we can squeeze in weekend trip to Gatlinburg. I will also be majorly catching up on my blog, all 11 drafts that I have in progress, and planning out new centers for my classroom. I may have 7 weeks off, but I will be busy for most of those!

Another exciting change is that we sold out house! We are currently living with my parents while our dream house is being built. We will finally have some extra, much needed space, and I will have a closet room! Stay tuned for some fun updates on the house and full post on how I edit and organize my closet room. As of last week the foundation had been poured and the frame had been built. Next step is insulation and dry wall! We meet with our builders the first week of June and I we will hopefully find out our closing date. This is such exciting time in our lives and I cannot wait to see what exciting things are still coming in our future.

Vivi is growing like a weed and has developed the cutest little personality. She is very particular about what she likes and is not afraid to tell you “No!” She has an obsession with all things tiny so at any given time our floors are covered with Shopkins, Hatchimals and LOL Dolls. She has also discovered “Cookie Swirl C” videos on YouTube. Those videos are both annoying and extremely addicting! I find myself being sucked in wondering what Shopkins she is going to get in her blind bag or if her LOL Doll will be a limited edition. Clearly I missed my calling in life and should be making videos of unwrapping Shopkins my profession.

It is also getting so much warmer here in Savannah. I feel like we went straight from Winter to Summer. We are already seeing temperatures in the nineties so I know that it is going to be a long, hot summer. The plus side is that I have been able to pull out all of my cute dresses, off the shoulder tops, and fun sandals. I am loving all of the trends for this spring and summer. They are making my inner 90s girl so happy. Give me all of the wide leg, high waisted jeans and platform sandals!

This outfit was from earlier in the spring before the temperatures got significantly higher. I love this light-weight Members Only jacket and feel like it will be great for cooler summer nights. The fact that Members Only is still around making classic jackets also makes my inner 90s girl so happy! The pink color is a fun touch and I love how it gives a more casual vibe to my outfit. I paired it with one of my favorite pairs of jeans, the cutest blush mules, and a comfy tunic. To finish off the look, I added sunglasses, a pair of fun earrings, and my absolute favorite clutch from the Studio DIY Can’t Clutch This subscription. I mean a Toaster Pastry Clutch? Yes Please!

I am really hoping to get on a schedule, or at least catch up, on my blog this summer so if there is anything that you want to see or hear about, please do not hesitate to let me know! I always love to hear from you! I will also have a series of posts after my Disney trip so let me know what you want to hear about and I will be sure to snap the right pictures or uncover the right secrets! I am also planning my first video tutorial so if you have any filming or video tips, please let me know!

I hope you all have a great start to your summer and that you are making the most of every moment! Thank you for being such amazing followers! I appreciate all of you more than you know!

Outfit Details and Similar Styles:

Jacket c/o | Top | Jeans | Shoes | Sunglasses | Earrings | Clutch

Field Frolicking and Planning for the Future

Whether your retirement is a couple of years or a couple of decades away, it is never too early, or too late, to start dreaming about and preparing for it. Traditionally, retirement planning has focused on saving money and building financial security. However, studies have found that having a vision for the future and planning for that vision are as important as money in achieving a fulfilling retirement experience.

Retirement satisfaction is typically linked to several factors: having a clear vision of retirement goals, early financial planning, continued engagement, and activity throughout retirement, financial preparation and professional advice.

The importance of planning for a meaningful retirement has increased as life expectancy has improved. According to an Actuarial statistics study*, the baby boomer generation is expected to live longer than any previous generation. In fact, it is anticipated that over half of the people alive today will likely live to be 82 years or older. When you consider even further advancements in modern medicine that will affect Generation Xers and Millennials in their old age, it is likely that people will be living a lot longer than previously thought possible. Unlike their elders, many people can look forward to living for several decades – as opposed to several years – in retirement.  (*Source: Life Tables for the United States Social Security Area 1900-2100. Actuarial Study No. 116 by Felicitie C. Bell and Michael L. Miller.)

While most people would agree that envisioning their retirement dreams is an important part of planning for the future, many of us may not know where to start or how to do it. One often overlooked suggestion involves writing down your vision for the ideal Retirement. It is based on the premise that those who write down their goals are much more likely to achieve them.

Written goals are much more concrete and tangible. In order to write them down, you are forced to think through the details. And, the simple act of writing down your goals adds a certain level of accountability. This is a technique that has been used by entrepreneurs from Napoleon Hill (Think and Grow Rich) to Daymond John from NBC’s Shark Tank. Once your goals are on paper, they are out there for the world to see, and there is no going back.

By answering thought-provoking questions about your individual vision and passions, you will uncover the attitudes, values and aspirations that drive your unique goals. This can help you develop a “retirement roadmap” in order to prepare both emotionally and financially for your future. During retirement, you can use these same questions to re-envision and re-evaluate your goals as you consider your experiences, challenges and worries as a retiree. The questions below can help you get clarity around your goals and dreams, and ultimately allow you to identify the necessary steps to get you there.

• What do you look forward to doing in retirement? – Possibilities to explore include spending time with family and friends, going back to school, doing volunteer work, starting a new business, staying healthy and fit, and traveling.
• Where do you dream of going? – Consider possible destinations and activities, how you would like to travel, how much traveling you would like to do and who you would like to travel with.
• Where do you see yourself living? – Where you live significantly impacts your costs in retirement. Do you want to be part of a community? Do you want to try a new climate or lifestyle? Do you want to live in multiple locations? Consider whether you want to stay close to your current home, move closer to family, or relocate near activities you love.
• How do you want to make your lasting mark? – Your legacy is what is important to you and what you want to pass on to others. Leaving a legacy can mean many things including passing on your assets, your values or the lessons you’ve learned. Consider what gives you a sense of satisfaction and how you can have a lasting impact.

After you have explored your dreams for retirement, you will want to consider how to turn those dreams into reality. Working with a financial planner can help you with your retirement vision. Research has shown that people who seek help from an advisor are generally more positive in their outlook for retirement. Having a written financial plan is one of the likely reasons for this.

Fulfillment in retirement is not just about getting the money right; it’s about having a vision, remaining connected to community and living your dream. Consider working with the Atlanta Wealth Management Firm of Benedetti, Gucer & Associates. They can help you envision your retirement lifestyle and create a financial plan to attain that goal. 

With all of that taken care of, you can do less worrying about the future and more frolicking through the fields. I don’t know about you, but I would choose field frolicking any day over worry!

Outfit Details:

Dress | Jacket | Boots | Sunglasses | Earrings

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post with Benedetti, Gucer & Associates. Affiliate links are used and I may receive a small commission.

DISCLOSURES

The views expressed represent the opinions of Benedetti, Gucer & Associates and are subject to change. These views are not intended as a forecast, a guarantee of future results, investment recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any securities. The information provided is of a general nature and should not be construed as investment advice or to provide any investment, tax, financial or legal advice or service to any person.

Additional information, including management fees and expenses, is provided on Benedetti, Gucer & Associates’ Form ADV Part 2, which is available upon request.

The use of the term “RIA” does not imply a certain level of skill or training.

The Five Star program is the largest and most widely published wealth manager award program in North America. The research process for the Five Star Wealth Manager firms and peers nominate award candidates. Award candidates are evaluated against 10 objective criteria to determine the Five Star Wealth Managers in more than 40 major markets. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the adviser by any client nor are they representative of any one client’s evaluation.

Walking into Summer with Kendra Scott

t feel like I say this with each new collection, but Kendra Scott has seriously out done herself with her Summer 2018 collection. Vibrant colors, geometric shapes, and fun tassels will have your jewelry shining brighter than the sun all summer long!

For this release, I decided to team up with some of my favorite Blogger Babes to share our favorite pieces. Kendra Scott has always made beautiful jewelry but I feel like when you are able to see it with an outfit, instead of just on a shelf, it makes so much more of a statement. The pieces come to life and you are able to start thinking about how you would style them in your own wardrobe. You go from wanting a piece of jewelry to needing to add that statement to your own collection. Together with my friends, we tried to bring the pieces to life. To show their movement, highlight their colors, and showcase their versatility. These pieces will become staples in your wardrobe.

So who are these fabulous blogger babes? I am sure you recognize Julia of Glitter & Juls. She is one of my best friends and has made frequent appearances on my blog and Instagram. The blonde cutie is Kailey of Little Miss Payne. She has quickly become one of my closest friends and I am so thankful for her friendship and support. We all met up at the gorgeous Kendra Scott store on Broughton Street, picked out our favorites, and our friend Hilary, of Hilary Hull Photography, captured the magic. I hope you enjoy the pictures. We had so much fun and really fell even more in love with the pieces. I will link all of our favorites and I encourage you to add some to your own collection.

Denise Rose Gold Statement Earrings in Lilac Mother of Pearl

These earrings are amazing because you can change the earring to fit your style. Choose one, two, or three tassels to achieve your desired link. You can also by pairs in multiple colors and mix-up the tassel colors for a completely different look.

Elisa Rose Gold Pendant Necklace in Lilac Mother of Pearl

Cristina Rose Gold Statement Earrings in Lilac Mother of Pearl

Ro Long Pendant Necklace in Gold

Graham Choker Necklace in Gold

Cristina Gold Statement Earrings in Aqua Howlite

Betsy Gold Long Pendant Necklace in Red Mother of Pearl

Cristina Gold Statement Earrings in Pink Agate

Cassidy Gold Pendant Necklace in Red Mother of Pearl

Denise Gold Statement Earrings in Red Mother of Pearl

Dove Gold Statement Earrings in Red Mother of Pearl

Julie Gold Stretch Bracelet in Pink Agate Mix

Elton Gold Cuff Bracelet in Magenta

Elaina Gold Chain Bracelet in Magenta

Sophee Matte Drop Earrings in Magenta

Elora Rose Gold Hoop Earrings in Lilac Mother of Pearl

Augusta Gold Long Necklace in Pink Agate Mix

Kristen Gold Statement Earrings in Red Mother of Pearl

Denise Gold Statement Earrings in Aqua Howlite

Megan Cocktail Ring

This beauty definitely came home with me! Her name is Megan! How could I leave without her? She comes in four different colors and adds the perfect amount of glam to any outfit!

Julie Rose Gold Stretch Bracelet in Lilac Mother of Pearl

Elisa Matte Necklace in Aqua Howlite

Betsy Gold Long Pendant Necklace in Aqua Howlite

Shop My Outfit and Similar Styles:

Top | Belt | Skirt | Handbag | Shoes | Bracelet | Earrings | Lip Color | Ring

I hope you were able to find something that you love. All of the pieces are beautiful and I know that you will love them in your collection. Let me know what pieces are your favorite! I always love to hear from you!

Photography courtesy of Hilary Hull Photography.

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used in this post and I may receive a small commission.

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.

Tips and Tricks for Shopping with SHEIN and ROMWE

Two of my favorite places to shop when I am on a budge is SHEIN and ROMWE. These are both amazing sites that have great deals, super cute clothes, and fun, unique pieces. The biggest thing about these two sites is that most of the clothes are made in China. Because of this, people are often asking me about sizing and quality. To help you out, I am putting together a post of all of my tips and tricks to help you shop these websites like a pro!

My first piece of advice would be to remember where you are shopping from. This is not a place that I would recommend buying basics that you think are going to last. To be able to sell these pieces at the prices that they do, the material is usually not a super high quality. I would not recommend buying your business suits or evening gowns. This is definitely a place to buy trendy items that are usually only in-style for a season. With their amazing prices, even if I only wear an item once or twice, I don’t feel bad because I did not break the bank!

My next piece of advice would be to always check the size charts. Both sites are great at giving you very in-depth measurements. Because of the way the items are made, a size is not going to be generic across the platform. You may need a large in one top and a medium in another. I always check the charts before I even consider ordering a piece. Some things just will not work for me and, while I am alright with that, I definitely want to know before I order. If any of the measurements seem like they will be tight, I will order one to two sizes larger. Chinese sizes typically run a lot smaller so do not let it discourage you if you need a bigger size. This is true for most people!

Along with the size charts, I would also recommend reading reviews on the item your are hoping to purchase. There are usually quite a few reviews on every item so your take time and read through what people have to say about the item. A lot of people add pictures and this is great because you can see how the item will fit on an actual person and not just a model. Most everything looks good on a size 00 model so I definitely prefer to see the item on someone who is an actual size. If an item does not have any reviews it is mostly likely because the item is brand new. Unless you absolutely are in love with the item, I would not recommend purchasing without first reading a review. The reviews tell you about fit, quality, material and overall appearance of the item and people are usually very honest.

My next piece of advice would be to use those coupon codes! Both sites always have some sort of deal happening so it is very beneficial to check those out when you place your order. I usually only order when I know that I am able to spend $50. That is usually the starting point for the best deals and it is the point that you need to spend to get free shipping. Because the prices are so low, you can usually get a few items so it is definitely worth hitting that point. Search through the earrings and handbags to help add items to your cart and really make the most of your purchase. The statement earrings are gorgeous and usually only $5 a piece and there is a ton of “inspired” handbags that are super budget friendly.

My final piece of advice would be to just have fun. Order something that you many not otherwise have bought. The prices are so good that you do not have to worry about feeling guilty. I like everything that I have ever ordered from SHEIN and ROMWE. No complaints. Almost everything is good or great quality and the pieces are just so unique that I really stand out in a crowd. I get more compliments on my pieces from this site than anything else in my wardrobe.  Many items I have had for a few years and I still continue to wear. They are fun, unique and trendy, and with a little care on my end, they have become some of my favorite items in my wardrobe.

Hopefully you found this post helpful! I can honesty tell you that I love shopping with SHEIN and ROMWE and I know you can find something you love. Just remember my tips and tricks and it is sure to be one of your favorite, trendy pieces! If you end up making a purchase, let me know in the comments below! I always love to hear from you!

Featured Items:

Floral Check Ruffle Top | Black Ruffle Hem Top | Pink Kimono

Floral Embroidered Button-Up | Floral Kimono | Fur Trimmed Utility Jacket

Disclaimer: Many of these items that are featured I received for free in exchange for a post. All opinions are my mine and I really do love shopping at both sites. Affiliate links are also used in this post so I may receive a small commission.

Photography courtesy of Magnolia Blossom Photography.

Spring has Sprung

I am loving that it is starting to warm up here in Georgia. We have had some exceptionally cold days and, while I do love the cold, too much starts to freeze my Southern blood. Here recently, on a very nice day, I was able to style some outfits for spring. It was so nice to be able to pull out my lighter layers and some of my favorite spring accessories.

The first look features the cutest light-weight thermal from Tobi. To add a little extra style to the top, I left the two bottom buttons unbuttoned and added a knot. I love the added detail and it makes the top that much more special. The material is super light weight so I know that I will easily be able to style the top with white skinnies or a cute pair of shorts in the coming warmer months.

For this look, I opted for a great pair of destroyed denim. This pair runs large and long! They are absolutely amazing but I had to order one size down and order a short! That never happens with my long legs! I also added some super cute accessories that I plan on styling on season long. I cannot say enough about the earrings. They are even cuter in person and have some really amazing details. I have already worn the shoes more times than I care to admit. They are super comfortable and go with almost anything. The handbag doubles as a backpack so it is perfect for keeping my hands free to chase my super fast toddler.

Thermal | Skinnies | Shoes | Handbag | Earrings

For my next look, I piled on all of the layers to create the cutest “weekend-ready” look! The star of this look is this super comfortable black shift dress from Tobi. The material is so soft and it has the best fit. I paired it with a great fitting chambray to give it a more casual look. I knotted the chambray for extra detail.

The accessories really stand out in this outfit as well. Instead of using a necklace or pair of earrings, I opted for a bandanna. This helped to up my casual vibe and really gave the outfit an unexpected look. I also love that the knot in the chambray mimics the knot in the bandanna. For shoes, I threw on my favorite tennis shoes, so I could really keep up with my active toddler. I swear, she runs faster that I do most days! To cover up my un-washed locks (#momlife) I decided to go with a hat. This one is so cute and has the perfect sized brim. It is great for everyday wear and beyond affordable. I finished the look with the cutest Kate Spade Camel bag and an adorable pair of heart-shaped sunnies!

Dress | Chambray | Shoes | Handbag | Bandanna | Sunglasses | Hat

For my last look, I pulled out my absolute favorite spring shoes and handbag and decided to mix up the seasons. This Tobi bell-sleeve top has the best velvet detail down the side. It features a thick, black stripe, paired with a smaller blue stripe by the wrist. I really feel like it was an unexpected detail for the top and I love how well it paired with my spring accessories. But the details don’t stop there on the top! There is definitively a party in the back when you turn around and reveal a cute knot detail, that shows just a hint of skin. It is such a fun addition and will really help to carry this top over to the summer.

To add even more detail, these jeans have a great button fly. I actually did not own a pair of button-fly jeans so I am happy to now have a pair in my collection. I also added a great pair of monogrammed sunglasses and a fun pair of tassel earrings. There are so many great tassel earrings in stores right now and most of them are super affordable. I love that the statement earring trend is carrying over into the spring because it was my favorite trend from the fall and winter months!

Top | Skinnies | Shoes (similar) | Handbag | Sunglasses | Earrings

Hopefully all of these looks give you some inspiration for spring. I am definitely looking forward to the warmer months and cannot wait to put even more outfits together!

Photography courtesy of Hilary Hull Photography.

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used in this post and I may receive a small commission.