GRIFFITH PARK: HIKING IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
Living in Southern California, there is an abundance of hiking trails from the Santa Monica mountains all the way down to San Diego. I happen to live in the center of Hollywood so I frequent the trendy and popular Runyon Canyon (which is fun for celebrity spotting and chatting with friends) but I wanted to get a little running in. Plus, it was a Sunday and Runyon would be super crowded.
Last Sunday morning, I woke up feeling a little groggy and hazy. It definitely was those few drinks I had at Megan's engagement party coming back to remind me that I am no longer in my early 20's. I made a mental reminder: implement a glass of water between drinks in the future. However, this is definitely not the first time I've told myself this but somehow I convince myself that one day it'll actually stick. But guess what? That's wasn’t keeping me down! It was absolutely beautiful outside and I planned on taking the bull by the horns and running with it (that's how the saying goes, right?).
Living in Southern California, there is an abundance of hiking trails from the Santa Monica mountains all the way down to San Diego. I happen to live in the center of Hollywood so I frequent the trendy and popular Runyon Canyon (which is fun for celebrity spotting and chatting with friends) but I wanted to get a little running in. Plus, it was a Sunday and Runyon would be super crowded.
So, I got my bum off the couch and I put some of my favorite running gear on. I decided to head over to Griffith Park Trails. The trails are wide and the inclines are not too steep which gave me the perfect opportunity to work on my cardio and interval runs. Plus, hiking is a great way to work on building those leg and booty muscles.
Aside from the running trails, Griffith Park is also home to the famous outdoor music amphitheater, The Greek (which if you missed Monday’s post, click here to read more about it), the Griffith Observatory, a Golf Course, pony rides, an abandoned Zoo.. even, a Merry-Go-Round. It’s the perfect place to bring the little ones to run around and play - or - a place to lay a blanket out with your beau and snack while reading a good book. Or you can try the cute Trails, a cute cafe located off Ferndale, surrounded by huge oak trees. You’ll forget you are in Los Angeles.
Don’t live in California? That’s okay! Jump on the interweb and do a search for some local hiking trails in your city. i bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised all the hidden trails you’ll find. Just pack a small bag and grab a good friend and get out and enjoy the sun.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / PINTEREST
TIPS FOR THROWING A "FINAL FIESTA!" BACHELORETTE PARTY
When my girlfriend Caroline decided she was getting married in Mexico, my little party heart fluttered. Not only was I excited for sun, margaritas and beach, I couldn’t wait to plan a killer bachelorette party Mexico style!
Image via CarleX
When my girlfriend Caroline decided she was getting married in Mexico, my little party heart fluttered. Not only was I excited for sun, margaritas and beach, I couldn’t wait to plan a killer Bachelorette party: Mexico style!
As a native Californian, I have been spoiled my whole life with AWESOME Mexican food. And, as any good California girl will tell you, nothing makes your heart tick like chips, salsa and a tequila shot. So as I prepared for Caroline’s final night as a single woman, I thought to myself: what's the best way to send my girlfriend off into wifehood? The only way I knew how: Caroline’s Final Fiesta.
Caroline's Final Fiesta! Photography by Tara Cardoza
Here are some of my favorite details and advice for a successful Fiesta:
Break the ice!
Have an assortment of beverages to offer your guests the second they walk in the door. This sets the tone for a fun evening and makes it clear to your guests they should feel comfortable. Remember to be mindful that not everyone is a drinker, so you should be able to offer a non-alcoholic drink. Don’t forget to take pride in your drink station; this is one of the best areas to decorate!
Stay Hydrated
I also kept in mind we were in for a long night. It's so important to stay hydrated when you are consuming alcohol (especially in a warm place like Mexico). But a boring bottle of water just wasn’t enough. I offered a fun alternative to the bottle by customizing labels that matched the other printed materials. Tossed a little sombrero on each of those bad boys and they looked like they came to party!
Mix-It-Up!
For our sit down dinner, intermixing the guests was the best way to go. But how does one ensure guests sit with a stranger while sending a strong party message to all…..Tequila shot placecards baby! Not only does this serve as your place card for dinner, it sends a strong message to your guests. We came to CELEBRATE this girl’s last night with out a husband!!! And the best part is, this doubles as your party favor. This isn’t your mother’s party favor hunny. No one is throwing this out…only throwing it back!
Clever Serveware
I knew the food was going to be easy. A tasty Mexican spread was the way to go. But making minor adjustments to the standard buffet set up was a fun way to get conversations started. For instance, don’t just serve your tortilla soup in a bowl, put it in a shot glass. It’s a reminder we came to party!
Goodies
Of course there are always the games at a Bachelorette party. So put a fiesta spin on em! Have a piñata!! You’re never too old! (I’ve left the photo out of our piñata as it wasn’t the most.. shall we say.. appropriate) But what good is a piñata if you don’t have bags for all your goodies? For these I made labels with the same design as the water bottle labels and prize bags. A simple copy and paste, just a different template.
Don't Forget the Keepsakes!
I also wanted to be sure our bride walked away with a good reminder of the fun night we had. So I had all the girls kiss a photo matte and sign their name next to it. We took a group photo for our bride to place in her frame. Kiss that maiden name goodbye!
So get creative with your decorations for your fiesta! Send a message to your guests that a good time is in order and tie it through out your theme. Then let the margaritas flow, tequila will take care of the rest!
Contributed by estCA staff, Megan Araujo
BEAUTY TREND: ALL ABOUT ORANGE
From John Galliano to DKNY orange lips graced this season’s runways. Now transitioning into summer, our love for orange cosmetics has only grown. Like biting into a tarte yet sweet orange these cosmetic picks are destined to give you the summer pop you need!
Image via MAC Cosmetics
From John Galliano to DKNY orange lips graced this season’s runways. Now transitioning into summer, our love for orange cosmetics has only grown. Like biting into a tarte yet sweet orange these cosmetic picks are destined to give you the summer pop you need! Fun, fresh and modern the color orange can sweep across a variety of skin tones and leave a sweet lasting feeling. Check out which products make the top of our list!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eleni Hopkins grew up in a home where art and fashion were always the forefront of conversation. A Native to San Francisco, her passion for style, color and texture have made her fearless to take risks in order to stay on the cutting edge of fashion and beauty trends. It was her craft with palettes of color and make-up brushes that prompted her move to Los Angeles and her love for clothing, designers and street trends that have kept her here. With a creative but critical eye, Eleni is excited to share her love for dress up and show readers how to spice up their wardrobe and enjoy their time in front of the mirror.
FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / PINTEREST
DIY: VINTAGE KNOB HANGER
I love vintage. I’m just gonna put it out there. It seems to put things into perspective for me. And lets be honest, perspective is always a good thing. So any time I have the chance to infuse my life with vintage elements, I’m all for it. In fact, most Californians seem to insert some vintage in their homes for that personal touch.
Image via The Moncurs
I love vintage. I’m just gonna put it out there. It seems to put things into perspective for me. And lets be honest, perspective is always a good thing. So any time I have the chance to infuse my life with vintage elements, I’m all for it. In fact, most Californians seem to insert some vintage in their homes for that personal touch.
After moving and redecorating, I knew I needed something extra in my entryway and decided on a coat rack. Since the entry way sets the tone for your home, it should always make a statement. I think It’s a great place to start introducing those vintage elements!
But if you don’t have the space {like me} and need everything to sit flush, it can pose an issue. I began the search for a rack that sat as flush as possible to the wall. I found a great one on Etsy but something was missing. Eurkea! (see what I did there) vintage knobs. This is a great way to infuse some vintage if you don’t have much space to work with.
Here's your start!: Hit the flea markets, your local garage sales, your grandmothers house, wherever and start treasuring hunting! If a newer vintage inspired knob is your preference, check out places like Anthropologie who carry vintage inspired knobs. Give yourself some options, you can never have too many options, right? Mix them together, new and old.
Image via Anthropologie
My mom always taught me, if you can’t find what you want: make it yourself. So, that is exactly what I did. With my fabulous knob finds, I knew what I wanted so I called in the "Big Guns": My Papa (he still goes to the wood shop each week!) to help. My Papa was thrilled to help me and even gave me some different size options on my wood slat and styling choices. He helped sand down the wood, bevel the edges, stain the wood, drill the holes, the works! He even offered his secret weapon: the soda can hook (Thanks, Papa!)
The final touch come from styling it up. Put the pieces that make your house, a Home and you'll be so thrilled with your new Home addition (I know I was!).
We'd love to see your version of the coat rack or how you were inspired on an entryway makeover. Post using #estcalifornia or send us your pics! You might find yourself featured here on the site!
Contributed by estCA staff, Megan Araujo
Chia Yogurt Power Bowl
I love food. And I love eating. But the two together can prove to be a challenge when you start packing on the pounds. So when I cook, I’m always looking for new ways to still achieve all those delicious flavors that make dishes devour-worthy, but cut all the bad stuff for you.
Image via Live Simply
I love food. And I love eating. But the two together can prove to be a challenge when you start packing on the pounds. So when I cook, I’m always looking for new ways to still achieve all those delicious flavors that make dishes devour-worthy, but cut all the bad stuff for you.
Over the last few years, I’ve really adopted a clean eating lifestyle. I tend to make most things from scratch because I want to know what is being put in my food. Canned condiments and frozen meals are loaded with hidden ingredients and chemicals and buying organic and farm-raised can get so very expensive. Don’t get me wrong though – I still go out to restaurants and gorge myself on a burger with the best of them but when I’m at home, I try to keep myself healthy. It’s all about balance.
I usually try to stay away from dairy but there is no denying the wide range of vitamins and minerals you gain from consuming the right kinds and there is one that has caught my eye recently: Kefir. It’s packed with probiotics and other great nutrients to help your digestive tract stay healthy. And when your digestive system is happy, your body is happy and can process all the food you put in it, efficiently!
Image via Live Simply
On that note, I wanted to leave you all with a recipe I was drolling over by Lee Hersh over at Fit Foodie Finds. Lee used Kefir to replace the almond milk in another recipe to kick her Power Bowl a little kick (yum!). And you all remember my post on Easy Chia Seed Pudding a few weeks ago telling you how great chia seeds are for you, right? K. Good. Enjoy!
Image via Fit Foodie Finds
Chia Yogurt Power Bowl (by Lee Hersh of Fit Foodie Finds)
Ingredients
1 medium size container of Fage Greek Yogurt 0% or about 2 cups
1/2 cup of kefir (any flavor..I used strawberry. You could also sub almond milk)
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup chia seeds
Additional toppings: puffed cereal, sliced bananas, blackberries, walnuts, and more honey
Instructions
In a large tupperware, mix together Greek yogurt, kefir, honey, and chia seeds. Let sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, so that the chia seeds expand. Then, create you parfait by adding whatever toppings you desire! Store in an air-tight container in your refrigerator.
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
TACO TUESDAY: HEALTHY TURKEY TACOS
California is well-known for it’s Mexican culture and incredible food.. With Mexico neighboring our lower border, dishes like slow-roasted carnitas tacos and deliciously marinated carne asada burritos become weekly meals. But sometimes, you just want a little healthier version.
Image via Zach with a Silent H
California is well-known for it’s Mexican culture and incredible food.. With Mexico neighboring our lower border, dishes like slow-roasted carnitas tacos and deliciously marinated carne asada burritos become weekly meals. Paired with some yummy rice and refried beans, salt-rimmed margaritas and handfuls of chips, it’s no surprise when I say these meals can leave you feeling a little glutonous. I can’t tell you how many times I have woken up in the morning with the aftermath of having too many margaritas and chips. But is it worth it? Absolutely!
While many times I think it’s worth it to splurge on a Mexican restaurant, I have spent a lot of my time perfecting healthy Mexican dishes so I can still enjoy all my favorite flavors and not feel guilty about it so believe you me, this will not be my only Mexican dish to share with you all. However, this easy Ground Turkey Taco recipe is super simple and easy to make if you are short on time and need your Mexican fix.
Turkey Soft Tacos
Serve in Lettuce cups, corn or flour tortillas
Ingredients
1lb Lean Ground Taco Meat
3-4 Sweet Red and Yellow Peppers, sliced and seeds removed
¼ of a medium onion, chopped
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked red paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder
½ cup low sodium chicken stock
Pico di Gallo
Avocado (cubed)
Cotija Skim Cheese (or Queso Fresco)
Shredded Lettuce (optional)
Instructions
In a sauté pan, add sweet peppers, onions and half the chicken stock. Saute until peppers and onions are cooked and begin to soften.
Add in Turkey Meat and brown until all pink meat is cooked. (about 5 minutes) – make sure to move your meat around and flip it to get all meat cooked.
Add in the remaining chicken broth and all the spices. Mix together and cook until broth cooks down (about 5 minutes)
If using tortillas, warm them to make them more pliable when you eat them (otherwise, they tend to snap in half when they are cold)
To assemble: take your tortilla (or lettuce cup) and ladle the meat into it. Add desired toppings and eat!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / PINTEREST
DIY: BANNER-MAKING 101
Everyone loves a good party. And no one loves one more than me. Decorations at a party are one of my favorite things to see upon arrival because each party is so unique.
Everyone loves a good party. And no one loves one more than me. Decorations at a party are one of my favorite things to see upon arrival because each party is so unique. There are so many ways to decorate, themes to choose from and places you can take your vision. But somehow, when planning my overall vision for a party or get together, I always find my way back to my party planning roots. I like to think there are certain décor elements that are the foundation of putting together a party. One of those items for me is a banner….. yes, a good old fashion banner. It’s a great way to send the message of the party. I know what your thinking, of course in a literal sense, it says happy birthday! But a banner is so much more than that.
There are so many great ways to build a banner for your party. It can be clear, simple and classic or it can be far more detailed. You can go as far as using the banner as a place to tie together your printed materials used through out the party. I think of a banner like the summary of a story. It’s a great way to tie together all the different elements you have been working on and give a clear visual of the common theme. It’s like that moment when the skies open and the heavens sing, and you see a clear vision. Ok, Ok, that might seem a bit far-fetched for a banner, but you get the idea.
Below are a few different ways you can use banners to take your party to the next level. You can go the traditional route or the detailed route. You can even recycle old banners to make it easier…. The choice is yours!
Contributed by estCA staff, Megan Araujo
HOW TO CREATE THE PERFECT GREEN SMOOTHIE
We’ve all been there. We tell ourselves we are going to eat healthy this week. Get back on track and promise ourselves that we won’t grab frozen yogurt for the fourth time this week.
Image via Juice Served Here
We’ve all been there. We tell ourselves we are going to eat healthy this week. Get back on track and promise ourselves that we won’t grab frozen yogurt for the fourth time this week. Then, the late hours at work begin, the skipped breakfast and rushing out the door, the office lunch of pizza that everyone is eating around you. All of a sudden you are back to square one and sluggish, tired and irritable. When your body isn’t performing at it’s best, you aren’t performing at your best.
This is why I’m here to tell you about a fantastic California based juice company, Juice Served Here, that has just the thing to get you back on track. Cleanse 2.0 starts July 7th and consists of different level juice cleanses (soft, semi and hard) and range from 3, 5, 7 or 10 days. With the right detox plan, you’ll help rid your body of some of the bloat, fatigue and stress that is bringing you do. By cleansing your digestive system, your body will be able to process the food that you put in it properly, allowing for more energy, better sleep and better skin, hair and nails.
Each cleanse starts from $55 and includes 6 different juices that you drink throughout the day in place of your meals. If you are a cleanse virgin, start with the Soft Cleanse which goes down nice and easy (and super tasty!). Or if you’ve done a cleanse before but aren’t quite ready for the super stuff, try the Demi Cleanse.
Juice Served Here is available for delivery and pick up in the Los Angeles area. If you aren’t in Los Angeles, you can still make tasty juices at home. Check out our Tips on How to Create the Perfect Green Smoothie below.
For more info, check out their website at www.juiceservedhere.com or visit one of their stores around LA.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / PINTEREST
EASY & HEALTHY CHOCOLATE CHIA SEED PUDDING
There are few things I enjoy more than a tasty treat. With all the delicious dessert recipes floating around the internet, it’s amazing I don’t gain weight from how much time I spend fantasizing about eating it all. That’s why I love this super easy Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding.
Image via Free People Blog
There are few things I enjoy more than a tasty treat. With all the delicious dessert recipes floating around the internet, it’s amazing I don’t gain weight from how much time I spend fantasizing about eating it all. That’s why I love this super easy Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding.
Let’s chat about Chia Seeds for a second though. You might be asking yourself “What the heck is Chia Seeds?!”
Well, thousands of years ago, chia seeds were a staple item in the Mayan diets. The word chia actually means “strength” and the Aztec warriors relied on the seed for energy and to increase their stamina – this is why it’s so popular amongst the health communities and they all rave about it’s superfood-ness.
Not only does the little seed give you energy – the seed contain a ton of fiber (5g in just 1 tbsp!). It’s the fiber in the seed, mixed with water, that creates a gel-like substance that mimics tapioca and gives this pudding recipe substance. If you find yourself with a sweet-tooth, give this tasty treat a try. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Easy Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients
1 1/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond or coconut are my faves)
1/4 cup chia seeds
3 tbsp raw cacao powder
1 tbsp organic maple syrup or agave syrup or raw honey
Dark Chocolate or Carob Chips or Cocoa Nibs
Instructions
Add all ingregients to a large mixing bowl
Mix together until everything is coated
Place into serving size jars or ramikins
Place in the fridge overnight to thicken Optional: add toppings such as almonds, shredded coconut, crystalized ginger or dried fruit.
Enjoy!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives.
FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / PINTEREST
THE PERFECT WEDDING GUEST OUTFIT FOR ANY LOCATION
Summer wedding season is here and choosing the right look (as a guest) it's actually trickier than one might think! The fear of being that overdressed (or underdressed) guest tends to haunt our minds.
Image via Gal Meets Glam // Photograph by: Em the Gem
Summer wedding season is here and choosing the right look (as a guest) it's actually trickier than one might think! The fear of being that overdressed (or underdressed) guest tends to haunt our minds. So, wherever your anxiety stems from, there is one important piece of information I take into consideration when deciding what to wear to a wedding… It is all in the location!
To help you with the process, I've gathered some of my favorite California wedding locations and paired them with the perfect Wedding Guest ensembles. These are sure to make you a guest fashion hit (behind the bride, of course)!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eleni Hopkins grew up in a home where art and fashion were always the forefront of conversation. A Native to San Francisco, her passion for style, color and texture have made her fearless to take risks in order to stay on the cutting edge of fashion and beauty trends. It was her craft with palettes of color and make-up brushes that prompted her move to Los Angeles and her love for clothing, designers and street trends that have kept her here. With a creative but critical eye, Eleni is excited to share her love for dress up and show readers how to spice up their wardrobe and enjoy their time in front of the mirror.
SPLURGE vs SAVE: Mirror, Mirror
Mirror, Mirror on the wall. How can we still achieve style and not break the bank? If you love interior design, you know that decorating your home can sometimes come with a hefty price tag. And sometimes, it's simply just the cost of the accent pieces. Since these are the pieces that help bring your home to life, what do you do if you can’t splurge every time?
Image via DecorPad
Mirror, Mirror on the wall. How can we still achieve style and not break the bank? If you love interior design, you know that decorating your home can sometimes come with a hefty price tag. And sometimes, it's simply just the cost of the accent pieces. Since these are the pieces that help bring your home to life, what do you do if you can’t splurge every time?
In this Splurge vs. Save we’ll help guide you through how to achieve the look you want - without always having to pay the price tag that can come with it.
SUMMERTIME POOL PARTY
The true sign of summer is a pool party. A good old fashion pool party. It’s the unofficial mascot of summer….or maybe official, depends who you ask; but there is something very California Classic about it.
The true sign of summer is a pool party. A good old fashion pool party. It’s the unofficial mascot of summer….or maybe official, depends who you ask; but there is something very California Classic about it. If your summers are anything like mine, as the host of the pool, there is a certain sense of spontaneity that goes with the title. Friends will be the best friends you’ve have during summer months. You know, since its 100 degrees outside, suddenly you are everyone’s favorite person!
As queen of the pool party, you must be ready to host at any given moment. Any good pool party host/ess will tell you there are a few key items you must always have on hand. This makes it more enjoyable for you as the host and in turn, your guests.
My 3 easy steps to a seamless little fun in the sun afternoon pool party with your fav homies below!
1. extra floaties
Always have extra pool floaties on hand! You don’t have to spend a ton on them either. I buy one two pack and it will last the entire summer season. Its cheaper in bulk anyway so save yourself the headache and stock up. You never now when something can pop, so be prepared!
2. healthy options
Be sure to give your guests good healthy options. All that sun can really take it out of you so make sure you are stocked up on healthy snacks that will help you feel good and produce energy for all that splashing. It doesn’t hurt to display them well while your at it, so grab your set of mixing bowls and embrace the color, its summer after all!
3. cheers!
While I understand I just said to have healthy options, its ok to sneak a little treat. So have a little cocktail during your fun in the sun. You don’t have to mix it with a bunch of artificial sweetener keep it healthy and simple like this fresh grapefruit margarita. And of course be sure to get some water in there too. So, Cheers!
Contributed by estCA staff, Megan Araujo
TOP FIVE FACE SUNSCREENS FOR THE SUMMER
Summer is here which means us California girl’s are ready to have fun under the sun! Whether it is laying poolside, crashing with the waves or a morning jog.. the importance of protecting our face from the sun should be mandatory. Behold the ultimate guide on our top five face sunscreens for this summer season.
Image via iStock.com/Yuri
Summer is here which means us California girl’s are ready to have fun under the sun! Whether it is laying poolside, crashing with the waves, or our morning jog the importance of protecting our face from the sun should be mandatory. For all the ladies whom hate wearing sunscreen on your face because it clogs your pores, makes you look pasty, or leaves a greasy residue...the excuses stop here. Behold the ultimate guide on our top five face sunscreens for this summer season.
1. SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
Once worthy of Allures “Best of Beauty Award” this product continues to be a chart topper. This Paraben free, non comedic formula provides gentle broad spectrum protection. With an universal light tint to help even out skin tone, this sunscreen is the perfect option when the last thing you want to do is put make- up on.
Price: $34 from SkinCeuticals
2. Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer SPF 47 with Sunboost ATB
This sunscreen and moisturizer duo is the best option for all of those whom prefer few steps in your grooming routine. One of the more “consciences” solutions on the market, this product boosts natural protection and hydration.
Price: $32 from Sephora
3. La Mer The SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid
The Hermes of sunscreen, this lightweight luxurious formula is designed for daily use. Providing protection from harmful rays, this hydrating formula will help prevent the appearance of future skin damage.
Price: $85 from Neiman Marcus
4. Coppertone Clearlysheer Beach & Pool Face Lotion
This drugstore buy is perfect for those whom love to live their summers in the water. This formula absorbs in seconds and feels fresh on the skin. With the bonus of water resistance for 80 minutes this product proves to be a top pick for a poolside or beach hangout.
Price: $9.99 from Ulta
5. Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+
This easily absorbed formula provides serious protection against UVA & UVB rays. Providing lasting protection, this is not a sunscreen you will have to constantly put on. Oil-free and water resistant, this lightweight product provides a matte finish thats wears great under your daily moisturize.
Price: $38 from Kiehls
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eleni Hopkins grew up in a home where art and fashion were always the forefront of conversation. A Native to San Francisco, her passion for style, color and texture have made her fearless to take risks in order to stay on the cutting edge of fashion and beauty trends. It was her craft with palettes of color and make-up brushes that prompted her move to Los Angeles and her love for clothing, designers and street trends that have kept her here. With a creative but critical eye, Eleni is excited to share her love for dress up and show readers how to spice up their wardrobe and enjoy their time in front of the mirror.
FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / PINTEREST
VACAY NAILS: TIPS TO MAKE IT LAST
Finally! Your summer vacation is here! You spent all week running your last minute errands: trips to the mall, finding that perfect bikini, gettting your bags packed – and now you are ready to hit the road!
Image via Diamond Nails
Finally! Your summer vacation is here! You spent all week running your last minute errands: trips to the mall, finding that perfect bikini, gettting your bags packed – and now you are ready to hit the road! Your tan is flawless, your legs are silky smooth and your mani/pedi is on point. Your confidence is up and the only thing that could ruin this lasting feeling is nothing other than a dreadful polish chip. Let’s face it ladies, there is nothing cute or fashionable about chipped nail polish.
We wanted to take some time today to give you some tips and tricks that will help extend your manicure and pedicure through all that walking in the sand and kicking of waves.
SCRUB, SCRUB, SCRUB: Oil, dust, dirt will all hinder the polish to adhere property to the nail bed. Use a nail brush with a gentle soap to scrub away any hiding dirt or oil on your nail bed to give polish the best fighting chance.
DEYHDRATE: Your nail must be fully dry before you paint on that color. Swipe on an acetone based nail cleaner.
BASE COAT: Use a sticky base coat prior to painting on your color. This will not only help the polish to adhere but also will smooth out any small ridges your nail plate naturally has. This is going to offer your manicure the staying power you need!
LIGHT STROKES: Try and cover your nail in 3 strokes. The thicker the nail polish the easier it will be to catch and chip off.
LOCK IT UP: Make sure to paint the free edge with both your polish and top coat.
OIL TIME: You have to keep your nails hydrated. Cuticle oil is the best way to give your nails a much needed drink. Adding oil onto your nails as part of your grooming routine is a must do!
VACAY TIME: Now go out and enjoy some vacay fun with your chip free nails! You have earned it!
Image via Good Life Studio
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eleni Hopkins grew up in a home where art and fashion were always the forefront of conversation. A Native to San Francisco, her passion for style, color and texture have made her fearless to take risks in order to stay on the cutting edge of fashion and beauty trends. It was her craft with palettes of color and make-up brushes that prompted her move to Los Angeles and her love for clothing, designers and street trends that have kept her here. With a creative but critical eye, Eleni is excited to share her love for dress up and show readers how to spice up their wardrobe and enjoy their time in front of the mirror.
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TEQUILA SOAKED WATERMELON SLICES
We love getting together with our families during Father’s Day and if your families are anything like ours, Dad is always in front of the BBQ cooking up some mouth-watering treats.
It’s Father’s Day! So, I want to first take a minute to give a big “Thank You!” to all the Dad’s out there. You are the best!
We love getting together with our families during Father’s Day and if your families are anything like ours, Dad is always in front of the BBQ cooking up some mouth-watering treats. We all love getting in the backyard to soak up the fantastic June sunshine and what better way to cool off than with some juicy watermelon?!
In my family, we often have potluck style get-togethers and we all love to cook (so our gatherings never disappoint). But with all that competition to see who can bring the best dish, this dish is sure to be the favorite! And it’s super simple.
Tequila Soaked Watermelon Wedges
Ingredients
1 small seedless watermelon, quartered and cut into 1” thick wedges
1 cup sugar
¾ cup water
½ cup tequila
¼ cup triple sec
2 limes, halved or cut into wedges
flaked sea salt or coarse salt
Instructions
Cut watermelon and arrange into a single layer in two 9-by-13 inch baking dishes.
Bring water, sugar, tequila and triple sec to a boil in a small saucepan. Cook until the sugar dissolves, stirring frequently (about 1 minute). Let the mixture cool slightly and pour syrup over the watermelon wedges.
Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes (the longer you let it soak, the more flavorful it becomes).
Remove watermelon from syrup and arrange on a platter. Squezze limes over melon and season with salt.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts.
