Tuesday, October 11, 2016

YEAR 2 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK



On October 10th, 2014 at 3 A.M., I crossed over the George Washington Bridge and into Manhattan. Moving to New York was never something I saw myself doing, but when life brings you opportunities, sometimes you have to take it and RUN! It's hard to even believe that it's been 2 years already. I still feel like I just moved here but also strangely feel like I've been here forever. That's the thing about New York, once you live here you instantly become attached. My first year living in New York was one to remember. It was full of amazing experiences and growth. And year two has been just as memorable. Here are some of my favorite memories over the past year. 






Walking in a Real Life Winter Wonderland. This past February, NYC literally shut down for an entire day due to 24 inches of fluffy white snow that covered the city. At the time, I had a friend in town visiting who had never seen snow. So, after being cooped up inside all day playing games, drinking and even having a build your own snowman contest, we were more than ready to get out of the apartment the next day. So, we bundled up and headed out to Central Park. It was breathtaking. I've seen snow many times in my life, but this was something magical. 



Standing at The Top of The Empire State Building. Seeing all of New York City from 86 floors up above, gives you all the feels. It also, gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "views for days". It reminded me of how lucky I am to be able to call this concrete jungle, home. 





Sunday Funday in Brooklyn. This Summer, my brother visited NYC for the very first time. I was excited to get to show him around the city. But I also wanted to show him life outside of Manhattan. And Brooklyn is the next best borough. We first walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, then grabbed pizza at Grimaldi's and finished the day drinking beers at the Brooklyn Brewery. By far, one of my most favorite days.




Taking My Mom to The Color Purple on Broadway. Once I knew that Heather Headley would be taking over the role of Shug, I knew I had to see this show. And what better show to take your Mom to during a girls weekend?! It was one of the best shows I have seen thus far. After the show, I pulled my Mom quickly aside and stood to wait for the cast outside. We got to have our playbills signed by all of the main cast including Heather Headley and Cynthia Erivo. I was freaking out (on the inside of course). Sharing that moment with my Mom was amazing. 





Seeing Alicia Keys perform in Rockefeller Center. I may have had to wake up at 4:30 A.M. to only stand in the back of the crowd behind a street light pole. But to hear Alicia Keys sing LIVE made all of it worth it. Not to mention, I got to share the moment with my best friend. We bonded over Alicia Keys music over a decade ago and I'm pretty sure we will dance to 'No One' one day at my wedding. 




Witnessing my best friend propose to his boyfriend. That dinner, those words and the tears shed will always be a night to remember. I can't wait to plan their wedding and stand next to my best friend as he says 'I Do'. Love is Love. 






Finding New friendships. Moving to a new city means meeting new friends. And although there are millions of people here, it almost makes it harder. Everyone is busy with work and the city hustle, so it's not often you find long lasting friendships. But I have been lucky to meet some amazing people and I am so glad I get to call them friends.


I never could have imagined all the things that would come with living in New York City. Every day still feels as exciting as the next. I can't wait to see what the next 365 days brings!



 XO, Rae

Friday, October 7, 2016

FALL BUCKET LIST





It's finally cool enough in New York City, where you need an extra blanket on your bed at night. I love how the city changes with each season. And FALL is no exception. As the leaves start to change in Central Park, we pack up our shorts and tanks, break out the sweaters and trade in our iced lattes for PSL's. There is so much in the city to look forward to in the Fall. Here are a few things I have on my bucket list to capture the most of the season. 


1. Walk through Central Park to see the Fall foliage with a Pumpkin Spice Latte in hand.

2. Bake Pumpkin Bread. It's one of the few things I'm actually good at baking.


3. Take a trip to upstate New York with friends. We actually have this beautiful house from the 1800's booked for an upcoming weekend. Can't wait!


4. Visit a festival and sip apple cider. 

5. Carve pumpkins. You're never too old to celebrate Halloween, right?!





6. Find a new favorite Fall scented candle at Bath & Body Works.

7. Ice skate in Bryant Park under the stars. 


8. Drink copious amounts of wine with my best friend. She is visiting NYC for the first time, next month! #girlsweekend

9. Take new headshots for the blog. Any suggestions for local NYC photographers??

10. Launch my lifestyle brand Rae Created. Eeeeek!




What are you adding to your Fall bucket list?  Comment below. 




XO, Rae


Friday, September 9, 2016

BLANK PAGE: A LIFE UPDATE




We're adults, when did that happen? And how do we make it stop? These words immediately resonated with me as I heard them out loud during an episode of Grey's Anatomy. I was having a crappy day and was in my feelings so, I ordered Chinese food, dug deep into the blankets on my bed and binged watched a season on Netflix. And at that moment hearing those words, I burst into tears. Life has recently reminded me that it owes you nothing and that change is inevitable. 


I know now more than ever that life happens regardless if you're ready for it or not. This year has been full of change both personally and professionally. My family dynamic has changed with the divorce of my parents. Although probably best for both parties involved, it still comes with pain and loss. And one thing I was not prepared for, is how it has changed the relationship I have with my mother. She is someone I have always been extremely close with. But I'm learning that parents have their life to live just as we have our own. And even though I wish things could go back to the way they were, this is now our new normal. I also, recently parted ways with my half-sister. This is something that has built up for years but still hurts nonetheless. I understand now that with loss comes growth. I have always been a "fixer" in my relationships with others. And this year has taught me that there are some things that can't be fixed. I've learned to accept things for what they are. And in the process, I am also learning to stop carrying the guilt. Being an adult comes with responsibility, but it also comes with the freedom of doing what is best for YOU.


My professional life has taken on a whole new meaning. As I once used to pride myself on a title I held in the corporate world, I am now learning the meaning of being an entrepreneur. I never realized how much I depended on a job status until I stripped it away. But in the past year of reinventing myself, I realized that I didn't need to have a "title" or "status" in order to be happy. My only regret is that I wish I had realized this sooner. But Life is funny that way, in that it gives you what you need when you least expect it. 


So, let this be a reminder that life comes with many unexpected changes. But you always have the option to rewrite your story and start on a blank page. Even when life feels like too much, just know that you will get through it. Although, I never would have imagined all the change this year would bring, I am reminded that I have much to look forward to. I am in the process of starting a business and launching my own Lifestyle Brand, later this FALL! And I could not be more excited. I also, will be embarking on year #3 of living in New York City, this October. I am choosing happiness even in the middle of life's chaos. 



Follow me over on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/ReinventingRaeNYC/



XO, Rae




Thursday, August 11, 2016

THURSDAY THINGS: WHAT I AM LOVING RIGHT NOW





It's hard to believe that we are in the last few weeks of SUMMER! Why does it always feel like we wait forever for Summer to begin and yet it goes by so fast?! Well, don't panic. There is still some FUN & SUN left to enjoy! And here are some things that I am loving right now that are Summer approved.


1. BEAUTY- During the Summer months I am all about less is more when it comes to makeup. I like to allow my face to get a natural glow when out in the sun with SPF on, of course! So, I keep it simple and usually just apply cover up, mascara & lip gloss. I recently discovered the new Lash Intensity mascara by MARY KAY and I'm OBSESSED! It goes on with only two coats, doesn't flake off and lasts all day. In fact it's SO good that it's currently SOLD OUT online but if you click here you can contact my Sister-in-law to order it directly and get notified when it's back in stock. 


2. BOOKS- Maybe you have a beach trip planned or just need a new book to read while you're commuting on the train. Jen Sincero has a new book out called 'YOU ARE A BADASS' and it's filled with all the kick ass things you need to start living a more fulfilled life. And let's be for real, with a title like that who wouldn't want to read this book?! 


3. ROOFTOPS- Summer in NYC has lots of benefits. And amazing rooftop views from above the city are no exception. One of my favorite rooftops is The MET Museum Rooftop Bar.  You can spend the day exploring all the exhibits the museum has to offer and then end the day with a rooftop sunset view OR you can meet your girlfriends after work for cocktails on the rooftop. Either way, this is by far one of the best views you can experience in the city. The rooftop overlooks Central Park and the Manhattan skyline and offers two bars that serve wine, beer and signature cocktails. 


4. POOL ACCESSORIES- You've most likely seen or have participated in the craze over swan and unicorn life sized floats thanks to Taylor Swift. Well, now get ready to be obsessed with a mini size version. They are perfect for keeping your drinks afloat while in the pool or a day at the beach. Seriously, how cute are these?!  Now you can enjoy a swim with your drink nearby. 


Met Rooftop views of Manhattan Skyline

MET Rooftop views of Central Park



Tell me some things you are loving this Summer. Comment below.



XO, Rae


Friday, June 24, 2016

SUMMER PLAYLIST




We made it to FRIDAY!! And what better way to get the weekend started, than with a playlist of songs to celebrate SUMMER. I'm sharing my Summer Playlist so you can play it all Summer long. Side note: You may find a few songs that will bring back some nostalgia. 








What are some of your favorite songs for SUMMER? Share below in the comments.


Follow me on INSTAGRAM



XO, Rae




Thursday, June 23, 2016

THURSDAY THINGS: WHAT I AM LOVING RIGHT NOW




Hello SUMMER!  Here is another roundup of things I am loving right now that are Summer approved. Tell me some things you are loving this Summer....comment below. 



1. BEAUTY- I am OBSESSED over the SEPHORA facial mask collection. My favorite is the Ginseng mask for toning and revitalizing. The Summer heat can be brutal on your skin so this is the perfect weekly treatment to help repair any damage. 


2. DETOX- Summer means getting into a bathing suit. And we are all thinking about our Summer body but also about tacos....mmmm Tacos. Lyfe Tea is a detox tea that helps with bloating, boosts your metabolism and helps curve cravings. The initial detox is 14 days but I drink it regularly to help kick the bloat. 


3. KITCHEN- Remember when you were a kid and you would make snow cones?! Well, wine slushies are the adult version. Yes, you heard that correctly. I personally love wine everything. But these wine slushies look delicious! Can't wait to try the rosé recipe, perfect Summer drink!




XO, Rae


Thursday, June 9, 2016

YOU ARE EXACTLY WHERE YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE





Lately, when talking to friends the same words seem to pop up in conversation, 'never say never'. I was reminded of these words again as I scrolled through Facebook this morning & looked back at an old status I wrote in 2010. 



I had no intentions on ever moving to New York City. I was perfectly content with my life in Atlanta. It was only tempting to move because my best friend had literally just moved from Atlanta to New York & I felt lonely. But I knew my life was in Atlanta and I had worked so hard to build that life. My career was just starting to come together & I was surrounded by the people I adored most. 


Fast forward almost 5 years later and life changed drastically. I started to be more open to the possibilities of leaving it all behind to pursue bigger things. Literally over a year's time I would contemplate the move to NYC. I was in a different head space than previously and I was ready to see what more was out there for me. So, I took a leap of faith and made the decision to move to NYC in the fall of 2014. The moment I actually committed to the idea, it seemed like everything fell into place. I didn't have any hesitations from that point on. Everyone was extremely supportive of my decision and not one person tried to convince me otherwise. So, I took all the encouragement and promised myself I would make the most of this new chapter. 


I didn't have a job lined up when I moved to New York. My plan was to take some time to get moved and adjusted to the city. I got anxious to get out there so 3 weeks after, I landed a position with one of the top medical practices. I was ecstatic to say the least. From my first interview, I knew this was the job for me. Immediately, I felt like I was taking NYC head on. But 6 months in, I couldn't do it anymore. I loved the job but the work environment was not ideal. It was not an easy decision for me but after a lot of consideration and countless nights crying over bad days at work, I made the decision to resign. The day I gave notice, I felt like I could breathe again. I didn't feel stressed or bad for what I had just done. I felt like it was what I had to do. I had never quit a job like that ever in my life. I've always held long term jobs ever since I was 15 years old. So, this was new territory for me. I didn't really have a plan B. And I was okay with that, for once. Which if you know me, I never not have things planned out. I'm a planner by default. But I knew I wasn't happy. I also remembered that I promised myself to live a different life here in New York by any means necessary. And I wasn't willing to compromise my happiness after leaving everything behind in Atlanta.


I wrote this Facebook status a year ago today (the day before my last day at my job):



A year later, I haven't looked back since. I took a chance on myself. And honestly I've never been happier. The past year has allowed me to get back to what's important in life. It has made me realize how unhappy I was all those years living at my job that I had always put above everything else. It has given me the opportunity to strip down to what I really want in life and what I never want to settle for. I've been blessed enough to be able to work from home, travel, write my blog and just enjoy living in this amazing city. 

My dream is to be an entrepreneur. And I'm hoping to make that happen sooner than later. I often let fear get in the way, but then I am reminded of how far I've come and all the things I've done that I never thought where even possibilities. So, I'm saying, never say never. Don't hold yourself back from things you want or deserve in your life. Everything happens for a reason. I honestly believe that. Be open to the possibilities of changing your mind. Trust the process and know that you are exactly where you're supposed to be. 



XO, Rae


Thursday, June 2, 2016

33 LIFE LESSONS I'VE LEARNED SO FAR IN MY THIRTIES



Before I turned 30, I was a mess in my emotions. But what I didn't realize at the time, was that my thirties would be some of the best years of my life, full of possibilities. As they say the older you get the wiser you become. So, here are some lessons learned so far. 



1. Stop living life based on a timeline. Just live.

2. Travel often. Don't let money hold you back. 

3. Quit the job you hate. There are far better opportunities, if you go after them. 

4. Don't settle. Not for anyone or anything. 

5. Buy the more expensive bottle of wine. Your body will thank you the next day. 

6. While your annoyed at being Single. Your married friends envy your freedom. 

7. Stop trying to please everyone. Seriously, it's impossible. 

8. Send 'Thank You' notes. Handwritten notes never go out of style. 

9. Love the body you have. Stop nagging yourself over those 10lbs. 

10. Start a daily skincare routine. Botox doesn't last forever.  

11. Get more sleep. Pulling all nighters gives you dark circles & puffy eyes. 

12. Remove toxic people from your life.

13. Disconnect from everything every once in awhile. (phone included)

14. Learn how to cook & host a holiday dinner. 

15. Say 'I love you' more. Tomorrow is not promised. 

16. You don't have to have it all figured it out yet. 

17. Create goals for yourself. Even small ones sometimes make the biggest impact.

18. Surround yourself with people who truly get you, encourage you and support you. 

19. Things will fall apart at times. The key is for you not to fall apart. 

20. Don't let your past define who you are.

21. Invest in your future. Enroll in a 401K or savings plan. 

22. Never apologize for wanting the best for yourself. 

23. Life should be lived with no regrets.

24. You will experience loss and it may  change you forever.

25. Don't carry the burden for others.

26. Money does not define happiness. 

27. Failures are not mistakes, only lessons learned.

28. Stop comparing yourself to others. We all have strengths and weaknesses.

29. You are capable of so much more than you think.

30. Being successful is not defined by just your job.

31. Move to a new city if your bored in the current one you live in.

32. Chase your dreams, even if they scare the hell out of you.

33. Do what makes YOU happy. 





XO, Rae


Thursday, May 12, 2016

THURSDAY THINGS: WHAT I AM LOVING RIGHT NOW





I'm bringing back my weekly post 'Thursday Things' and will be keeping it fresh & new all Summer long! Basically, every week I will be sharing things/places/products etc. that I am currently loving. Comment below if you have something you are loving as well.


WINE ACCESSORIES- Wine on the go? Yes, PLEASE! These wine-flask pouches are perfect for the beach, concerts and park days. My best friend actually found this on groupon and shared with me. She knows me SO well. 

BOOKI am so in love with the new book BIG MAGIC. It's from the same author of Eat Pray Love. The book is about getting past your fears and living the creative life you imagine for yourself. If you're in need of some motivation or inspiration, then I definitely recommend picking up a copy of this book!

BEAUTY- Now that Summer is literally just weeks away, the winter pale look needs to go! I'm all about self tanners but I don't often have the time it takes to apply it and let dry. I recently discovered Ulta Tan Towels, individual towelettes that you can use for all over body. Easy to apply and pretty much dries on application. End result color was a nice light bronze. I will be keeping a stock of these this Summer!



Have a FAB weekend!


XO, Rae

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

NYC LIVING: COLUMBUS CIRCLE NEW UNDERGROUND SHOPS & EATS







If there is one thing I have learned while living in New York City, it's that convenience is EVERYTHING. The days are longer and you're constantly on the go here. Especially when it comes to meals. Hence, why there are so many food trucks in the city. My favorite is the coffee and bagel carts. Perfect for the days when you're literally running across the street to get to the office on time. So it's fitting that there is now something even more convenient that has recently opened up at Columbus Circle. Turnstyle is an underground dinning and shopping experience. Located under Columbus Circle at the corner of 57th/58th Street & 8th Avenue. 

I recently visited the new underground shops & eats and was impressed with all it has to offer. Imagine a row of pop-up style restaurants and retail spaces with easy access for on the go shopping and dinning. I was immediately drawn to the vibrant and colorful atmosphere. It was also very clean and more spacious than I anticipated it to be. I recognized a few places right away but was also excited to see some unfamiliar ones. Everything from DOUGHNUTTERY, BYSUZETTE, GASTRONOMIE 491 and PRESSED JUICERY to name a few. 

And for the days you are in need of a gift for that special someone or on your way to a friend's dinner party. Don't show up empty handed! There are several great shops to pick up a great gift. I especially love PAPYRUS and LUSH. There is also this great boutique like shop called FAB. They literally have something for everyone. If you need a sugar fix, there is even a DYLAN'S CANDY BARAnd if you've just had a long day and not sure if your roommate drank the last of the wine at home. Luckily, you can grab a bottle at KIT's UNDERGROUND before getting on the subway. 


For a full list of shops and eats go to turn-style.com 


 

XO, Rae



Monday, May 9, 2016

7 THINGS I LEARNED IN MY FIRST YEAR OF BLOGGING





One year ago today, I hit 'Publish' on the very first blog post for ReinventingRaeNYC. Ever since I moved to New York, my friends had encouraged the idea of me writing a blog. They wanted to be able to hear all the stories of my new life in NYC. 



I've been working on writing a book loosely based on my real life and relationships for a few years now. So, it seemed fitting that a blog would be a good way to start posting my writing and in hopes of gaining a following. So after a few days of brainstorming with my roommates & sitting alone in my apartment for hours writing out ideas for names, ReinventingRaeNYC was created. The name is significant to me for two reasons.
1) My middle name is Rae. A name that I actually didn't really like until I was in my twenties, oddly enough. And I rarely ever went by that name until I moved to New York.
2) Reinventing came about because it is the best word to describe my experience here in New York City and the current stage in life I am in. I'm reinventing myself in so many ways, in my personal life, in my career and even in my everyday life here in New York City. 


Blogging is still something that is completely new for me. My blog is far from being perfect or even where I envision it to be. It's a constant work in progress. But everyday I learn something new about the ins and the outs of the blogging world. Which is exciting and encouraging in itself. If I could offer any advice on blogging and what it has taught me in my first year, it would be this. 


1) Creative Outlet: Blogging like most writing is a way to express yourself and share your thoughts, ideas and opinions with others. It has definitely been a creative outlet for me. There is something so fulfilling about sharing your real life stories along with your hopes & dreams and lessons learned to complete strangers. I often joke and say that blogging is kinda like free therapy. I mean we all need a creative outlet, right?  

2) Time Consuming: Full time and even part time blogging can take up a lot of your time in more ways that I ever could have imagined. It's not just about the time that it takes to write about a subject. Which for me, can take hours or sometimes even days to write depending on what I am writing about.  Not including the hours spent re-reading it and editing it. Then there are photos that have to correlate to the post, most in which I create myself using several different apps (WordSwag, Pic Collage, Canva) or photos that I've taken with my iPhone. Then once a post is ready to be published, you have to share, share, share! Sharing a blog post on social media is crucial in order to make it go out to a larger audience. Social media by far is the most time consuming aspect in my opinion. There are days that I spend just working on social media, alone.

3) Start Somewhere: You won't always know what to say. Often you will find yourself staring a blank page. For me I want to write something authentic and meaningful. I never want to just write a blog post just to get it up on my site. (Hence why there are some gaps in posts) I want my blog to be real so that other's can hopefully relate to what I'm writing about. I find that if I plan out my weekly/monthly content on paper, it helps me to stay motivated and invested in the topics I have chosen. Most importantly, if you have a day lacking in inspiration, just start writing. It will all come together and you may even surprise yourself in the outcome. 

4) Discouraging: There have been many days in which I felt discouraged in the process of blogging. Sometimes you feel like you have nothing worthy of writing about. And there will be days you ask yourself "who is really reading my blog anyways"? All of that plays a factor. Not to mention the times you pour your heart into a blog post and you literally have no comments on it or shares on social media. It can be lonely at times as a blogger, especially when working from home. Struggle is real some days. But that's why there is WINE.  

5) Non-support: This is one that I've had to learn to not take personally. The reality of blogging is that not all of your friends and family will support your blog. Many of which won't really understand it at all. The truth is that they often won't even take the time to 'Like' your Facebook page, comment on your blog posts or even read your blog at times. And that's okay. You can't expect all your friends/family to constantly keep up with your blog. But the flip side is when you have unexpected supporters and those who really take an interest in it. 

6) Build your Network: Because you can't solely depend on friends and family to share in the day to day of of your blog. Building a blogging network is crucial. I am still working on building my own network however, so far it has been a huge factor in my growth as a blogger. Surrounding yourself with other bloggers who get it can certainly empower you on days that you feel like your not progressing. And luckily with social media, this is easy to do. Connecting with other bloggers is a great way to share struggles and successes alike. I have found that participating in Facebook groups like The Blogger Life, Blogging Boost and Blogging Newbs have been a great way for me to gain knowledge, help with promoting my blog and receive advice when needed.

7) Progress NOT Perfection: The most important lesson I have learned so far, is that progress is key not perfection. I say this because I think initially with any new project, we ultimately want it to be perfect. As bloggers, we often compare our blog to other blogs and judge our blog's success based on how many followers we have vs. the followers of other bloggers. But in time you realize that it's more important to have progress overall. I still have a ways to go with my blog until I will be 100% content with it. But that's what keeps me excited about blogging on a daily basis. The strive for continuing to make progress with my writing and layout of my blog. 


They say the first year of any new endeavor is the hardest. So, I plan to take the lessons learned in my first year of blogging and use them to help me in the coming months. Reminding myself that with hustle and hard work comes success.

THANK YOU to everyone who has shared this experience by reading my blog, sharing it on social media, commenting on blog posts, been a listening ear and/or even inspired me on a subject I wrote about. YOU make this blog possible. 


XO, Rae   




Friday, April 22, 2016

HELLO FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF CHAOS



SORRY for the lack of blog posts lately. I have been so distracted by things going on in my life. But sometimes taking a step back is a good thing and even necessary. So, when life throws you lemons, add vodka and pour yourself a cocktail. Then get back to what makes you happy.


I am back in New York City after being away for six long weeks. My trip had started off great with a girls trip to Nashville for a friend's Bachelorette Party. Then was followed by the reality of my Mom and Step-Dad starting the divorce process. All while helping my Mom move out and into her new place. It was all very surreal. And honestly, I am still just dealing with it one day at a time. Even if you see it coming, you can still never really be prepared for it. I was too young to remember my Mom and Father divorcing. I was only two years old. But now seeing my Mom and Step-Dad go through it as I am now an adult, its tough. And I am learning how to adjust to having a relationship with them separately instead of as a unit. 


After a month of an emotional roller coaster, I spent a week back home in Atlanta. It was filled with lots of friend therapy, wine (of course) and a beautiful wedding of one of my best friends. I even hiked a mountain one day. The things friends get me to do. Ha! But hiking Sawnee Mountain was probably one of the best days and the views don't disappoint. The only disappointing factor of my trip was seeing my ex. You know how you think 'hey, what the hell?' meeting for a drink can't hurt, right? Wrong! It was dreadful. And he didn't even offer to pay for my glass of wine. But if anything, seeing him was a reminder of how far I've come since we dated. I wish him all the best in his life. I'm just so glad that I moved on with mine. 


I'm also currently job searching which is stressful in itself. My work from home job has ended, so I am looking into other opportunities. Working from home definitely has it's benefits, especially on days you just don't feel like doing your hair or putting on makeup. Also, being able to wear yoga pants while working is like the holy grail. But working from home can also be lonely some days. Since leaving the corporate world almost a year ago, I feel more grounded. I don't want to settle for just any job and the break has been much needed time to renew myself. But like all good things in life, they must come to an end at some point. I am lucky to live the life I live and keep reminding myself that with life's chaos often comes great change. 



XO, Rae 




Sawnee Mountain



Kaitlyn's Wedding 4.09.16


The Bride & I



My Girls! Linds, Me & Jen



Sunday, February 14, 2016

WHY YOU SHOULD EMBRACE BEING SINGLE ON VALENTINE'S DAY




Valentine's Day is all about LOVE right?! Wrong. It's mostly about the pressure of buying the right gift for your significant other along with planning the perfect night and the stress of what to wear for said perfect night. But not this year. Because you're SINGLE. Before you start to drown your feelings in that bottle of wine. Here is why you should embrace your singleness this Valentine's Day. 





You get to do whatever YOU want

You can stay home and binge watch chick flicks on Netflix all day while eating Ben & Jerry's in bed. You can meet up with your girlfriends for brunch and consume bottomless mimosas. Or you could have a Girl's Night Out in celebration of Galentine's Day. The point is that you can do anything your heart desires. 



Chocolate Wasted

All the chocolate you want. And nobody will judge you. So make sure to stock up on all those heart shaped chocolates. Or you could go all out and be like Miranda in that episode of 'Sex and The City' where she bakes a whole chocolate cake, grabs a fork and never looks back. 


 



Wine about it 

If all else fails. There is always wine. Go ahead and treat yourself to that expensive bottle of wine you've been saving for a special occasion. After all, you are celebrating your singleness. No shame in that game. CHEERS! 





Friends don't let friends be single alone

Because being single doesn't mean you're alone. You have amazing friends and an amazing life that a guy would only be lucky enough to be a part of. Call your girlfriends, let them know how much you love and appreciate them being in your life. Invite them to brunch or a day of shopping and celebrate yourself. Single can be fabulous. So, for now spend time with your girlfriends making memories to last a lifetime. 







To all my SINGLE LADIES. Embrace your SINGLENESS. And treat yo'self to the Valentine's Day you deserve. 



XO, Rae

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

8 GIFTS GIRLS REALLY WANT FOR VALENTINE'S DAY





Hey Ladies! 

We are just a few days away from Valentine's day and if you haven't hinted yet to the man in your life on what you really want. Well, here is a list of items you can share with him. And if your SINGLE, like me. Why not treat yourself to a gift along with that bag of chocolate and bottle of wine you plan to consume on Valentine's Day.
No judgement here. 



1. Professional Make-Up Session

Girls love getting dolled up! And having someone else do it for you is even better. Treat her to an experience of having her make-up done by a professional. Rouge NY is a great Beauty Bar here in the city. Not only will your girlfriend appreciate this awesome gift. But she will look extra fancy for you on your date. 


2. Spa Day

Every girl deserves some pampering from time to time.  A spa day is the ultimate gift. And if you send her along with her best friend well, you are bound to be rewarded. 


3. Hand Written Card

As women, we really appreciate when a guy gives us a gift that has a personal touch to it. Pouring your heart out to her in words on a card or a poem will be sure to make her feel loved. 


4. Weekend Getaway

Nothing says I love you more than a romantic getaway. And she will swoon over the fact that you planned it all by yourself. Think of places she has always wanted to travel to or places that are meaningful to you both. 


5. Flowers

I know it sounds clichè. The secret is getting her a bouquet of her favorite flowers. And if you have them delivered to her office with a sweet note attached, it will make her day! 


6. Sweet Treats

Cupcakes would make any girl happy. And you can pick out her favorite flavors (chocolate or double chocolate). Butter Lane Bakery even offers classes where you can decorate your own cupcakes and take them home at the end of the night. Hint: Date Night! 


7. Wine 

Cook her dinner and pick up a few of her favorite bottles of wine or new wines to try together. You can create your own wine tasting right from your living room. And if she really loves wine, you can get her a monthly wine subscription. What girl wouldn't love wine just showing up on her doorstep? 


8. Sentimental Items

If you really want to win her heart over. Create a gift she will love for years to come. A framed photo of you two, a playlist of love songs or a personalized gift with her name or significant date inscribed.  


Good Luck ladies! Hope you get some amazing gifts this Valentine's Day! 
And for us SINGLE gals, wine is the answer. 



XO, Rae