As I’ve mentioned before, I very rarely make it to blogger events. Mostly because everything happens in downtown San Diego (which is close to an hour away from me…San Diego county is pretty huge) and I am in North County. But that is going to change in 2018. I feel like 2018 is the year of “Don’t Compete – Collaborate”!

For a long time in the blogosphere, there was an air of  secrecy and a lot of competitiveness among bloggers. I think because it is still a fairly new space, everyone was just trying to figure out how to become the next “big blogger” and so many weren’t willing to share their secrets of success. Thankfully there has been a shift in this space and I feel like we are slowly but surely figuring out that we are better together! There is room for all of us! I have met SO many rockstar women, moms, entrepreneurs and straight up hustlers in the last year that after 8 years of blogging, I am even more inspired than ever to keep creating content and hopefully leave some inspiration here for YOU.

A couple of weeks ago, I attended the “Selfish Self Love Blogger Event” put on by Elwynn & Cass and Micro Meetup Events. It was truly one of the best events I have ever been to. Not only was the entire space GORGEOUS (seriously…so Instagram worthy!) but we were treated to mini-massages, mini-makeovers, yummy food & drinks, flower crowns and reiki/tarot card readings! But the best part was connecting with so many like-minded ladies and sharing our struggles to succeed and listening to each others stories. The honest conversations were so refreshing.

Here are just a few of the images from my day. And be sure and catch the video below!

A special shout out and THANK YOU to the following vendors for making our day so special: Elwynn & Cass, Micro Meetup Events, Moniker Warehouse, CC Vintage Rentals, Medley Cocktail Company, Sage Bleu Catering, Mobile Massage & Wellness, Kendra Scott, Isari Flower Studio, Alexis Tia Diller, Studio Luniste, Bronwyn Photography, Cee Cee & Bee, Social Lights, Chef Joann, Rachel Larraine, Get Fluffed Up, Cake Pop Shop, Elevation Eating, Vivacious Dish, Optix, Emmy’s Organics, Neroli Skin & Lash, Simple Jane, Fat & the Moon, Persu Collection, Paru Tea and Chakra Truffles.

P.S. If any of you are planning an event or wedding, I’ve basically just listed everyone you need to know! You’re welcome! Ha!

A few weeks ago I had a photoshoot with Z Bella Photography. On our quest for cute locations for backdrops, we decided to stop by the Pannikin Coffee Shop in Leucadia. We got lucky because there is usually a line wrapped around the building and we somehow had the place pretty much to ourselves! I love all of the pops of yellow in these photos.

In other news, Shopbop just announced their “Buy More, Save More” Sale. You can save up to 25% off your purchase with code GOBIG18. Some exclusions apply so visit Shopbop for full details (sale ends March 3rd, 11:59pm). I scored this dress from Shopbop a few months ago and it is definitely coming with me to Palm Springs in March. I can’t wait! Fun fact…I’ve had these heels (they remind me of the old school Candies) for over 12 years. This is why I can’t do the whole “if you haven’t worn them in a year, get rid of them” rule. I may not have worn them in YEARS, but I still love them.

Outfit Details:
Faithfull the Brand Dress
Blank NYC Faux Leather Jacket (available in other colors)
Nine West Heels (SO OLD)
Brixton Fidler Cap

SHOP MORE OF MY FAVORITES FROM SHOPBOP BELOW:

So I wore my tank backwards on purpose. The front is actually v neck and ruffled, but I liked the strappy look in front even better! You can see it worn the right way here. In other news, my son had all of last week off of school for “family week”. I never remember having a week off for no reason when I was little, but we sure did enjoy it. But now tomorrow is going to be the Monday-est Tuesday EVER. Back to making lunches and setting alarms. I guess I better stop procrastinating and go get dinner started so we can all get to bed at a decent hour tonight. Hope you all have a great week!

Outfit Details:
Flutter Top c/o cabi
Flamenco Jacket c/o cabi
Madewell Jeans
Tiptoe Sandals c/o cabi
Madewell Round Purse (similar)
Helen Ficalora Initial Necklace
Bracelet & Ring c/o LAGOS

A couple of weeks ago, I had the great pleasure of doing a photoshoot with Zemina of Z Bella Photography. I had seen her work over the years through several mutual friends but we had never officially met in person. We decided to meet at a local popular coffee shop and as soon as we found each other (apparently there are two locations across the street from each other), we both laughed and said it felt like we were going on a first date! Social media is funny because you feel like you know someone even though all we see are glimpses into people’s lives. To be completely honest, I don’t usually enjoy having my photograph taken by anyone other than myself (tripod/remote) because my smile is never natural, my poses are stiff and I am extremely picky about lighting/angles. But Zemina immediately made me feel at ease and four hours later, I didn’t want the photo shoot to end. Yes, we spent FOUR HOURS shooting all over Encinitas. It was actually the best day ever. And I hadn’t even seen the photos yet. I am blown away by her talent. And not to sound in love with myself, but I am IN LOVE with how the photos turned out!

We actually shot several different outfits but as I mentioned last month, I have partnered with Fabletics again to share some of their newest styles with you. I am wearing the “Corinna” outfit that is/was available in the February options. For the record, I NEVER wear just a sports bra to work out. Like, ever. But this sports bra was just TOO pretty not to share. It is also double layered so it really holds you up & in. The matching leggings have the same lace detailing & zippers (love!) and I adore the soft peachy/pink color. If it works on my pale skin, I can only imagine how great it looks on olive tone/tan skin!

SIZING INFO: I’m wearing an XS in both the sports bra & pants and a size small in the jacket. I am 5’6 and 120lbs for reference. I have hips and wear a size 27 in jeans. I personally feel they offer vanity sizing and recommend you size down if you like your pants to really suck you in like I do. I’m loving this powerhold material. To learn more about how Fabletics works or to purchase the look I’m wearing, click here. Feel free to ask me any questions in the comments!

Disclaimer: Outfit is c/o Fabletics. All opinions are my own.

Last month I attended cabi’s bi-annual scoop event and was kindly gifted this Ricardo Beverly Hills luggage & tote. My first inclination was to go with a basic grey or black but I was just drawn to the rich violet & cognac combo! It was actually the perfect size for my overnight getaway and will be coming with me to Catalina in April! The tote is fabulous because it has a padded laptop compartment and plenty of room for any items that you need quick and easy access to while traveling. Bonus that it’s cute enough to carry even when your not traveling. I added my own gold tassel keychain to give it a personal touch. And the suitcase has tons of compartments, a TSA compliant combination lock and even more fabulous is the snap in/out TSA-friendly pouch that can easily be thrown in your carry-on luggage for on-board access. I am down for any & all things that make traveling more convenient!

P.S. I was not asked to review this luggage but I love it so much and know you will too so had to share. It’s truly that great. In my opinion, of course.

Outfit Details:
by the way. Wrap Dress (sold out)
Low-top Old Skool Vans
Forever 21 Hat (similar)
Luggage & Tote c/o Ricardo Beverly Hills
Erin Fader Double Medallion Necklace