Sunday, December 10, 2023

Feel Better Every Day: Easy Tips For A Healthier Life

 I feel like the world has been a heavy place since 2020… I feel like the pandemic took a toll on people’s mental and physical health, and I feel like that era took a toll on everyone’s level of happiness. One positive thing that came out of that space in time is the rise in awareness of mental health and the importance of self-care. Today Peter is guest posting and sharing some wonderful tips on to live a healthier and happier life!

Starting a healthier life can be easy. This guide explores simple tips to make you feel better and improve your overall well-being. From small changes in your routine to incorporating healthy habits, these straightforward suggestions pave the way to a happier and more vibrant life.

 

Rise and Shine: The Power of Morning Rituals

Begin your day on a positive note by introducing morning rituals into your routine. Spend a few moments in meditation, engage in gentle stretching exercises, or savor a mindful breakfast. These simple yet intentional practices have the power to elevate your mood and recharge your energy levels, laying the foundation for a more positive and productive day ahead. Incorporating such rituals is a small but impactful way to prioritize your well-being from the moment you wake up.

Hydration Happiness: Sip Your Way to Wellness

Ensuring adequate hydration is a key but sometimes neglected element of good health. Find delight in proper hydration by adding herbal teas, infused water, or a splash of lemon to your daily routine. A well-hydrated body supports improved digestion, clearer skin, and overall enhanced vitality. This simple act of incorporating diverse and flavorful hydrating options can make a significant impact on your health and well-being.

Energize with Nature: The Outdoors Advantage

Step outside and embrace the wonders of nature. Whether you're strolling through a park, tending to your garden, or just soaking up sunlight, spending time outdoors is associated with lower stress levels, better mood, and heightened creativity. Nature possesses a remarkable ability to rejuvenate both the body and mind. Incorporating outdoor activities into your routine is a simple yet effective way to promote overall well-being and foster a sense of connection with the natural world.

 

Naturopathy Unveiled: Embracing the Healing Power of Nature

Naturopathy, a holistic health approach, highlights the body's innate ability to heal with natural remedies. It integrates lifestyle shifts, herbal medicine, and dietary adjustments to enhance overall wellness. Naturopathic practitioners concentrate on pinpointing and addressing the root causes of health concerns, offering a personalized and preventative healthcare approach. By recognizing the interconnectedness of lifestyle and well-being, naturopathy courses for stress management or any other hardships you might be passing through,  encourage a harmonious balance that supports the body's natural healing processes for optimal health.

Mindful Bites: The Art of Balanced Nutrition

 

Nourish your body through a balanced and thoughtful nutritional approach. Choose whole, nutrient-rich foods and relish every bite. Mindful eating fosters improved digestion, aids in maintaining a healthy weight, and nurtures a positive relationship with food. By appreciating the flavors and textures of your meals, you not only enhance your physical well-being but also create a harmonious connection with the food you consume, promoting a more mindful and enjoyable eating experience.

 

Sound Sleep Secrets: Crafting Your Ideal Bedtime Routine

Quality sleep is essential for overall well-being. Establish a calming bedtime routine by dimming lights, disconnecting from screens, and incorporating relaxation techniques. A peaceful night's sleep enhances cognitive function, uplifts mood, and boosts overall resilience. By prioritizing restful sleep, you cultivate a foundation for improved physical and mental health, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead. A soothing bedtime routine is a simple yet effective way to invest in your health and enhance your daily resilience.

 

Joyful Movement: Finding Fun in Fitness

It shouldn't be a chore to exercise. Choose hobbies or pastimes that you enjoy, such as hiking, dancing, or sports. Frequent exercise improves general fitness levels, elevates your mood, and supports cardiovascular health. Adding enjoyable activities to your routine makes staying active enjoyable and helps you develop an enjoyable connection with exercise, which is beneficial to your overall health. It's about embracing activities that bring you joy and realizing how much fun movement can be.

 

Incorporating these simple yet effective tips into your daily life can pave the way to a healthier and happier you. From nurturing morning rituals to exploring the benefits of naturopathy, each step contributes to a holistic approach to well-being. Remember, small changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall health and vitality.

 

Monday, November 27, 2023

Cyber Monday Sales

 It is a little difficult to believe that the end of another year is coming to a close. I feel like this year has been one of the longest years, but at the same time one of the shortest. I always love how the best holidays are always one after another at the end of the year. There is always something to celebrate and an air of festivities is in the air. And of course, one of the best parts of this time of year are the amazing sales! Here is a roundup of all of my favorite sales currently going on!

Abercrombie// 255 off Everything, Plus an extra 15% off select styles

Addison Bay// 30% off everything with code: CYBER

Ann Taylor// Extra 15% off your purchase of $200 or more

Anthropologie// Up to 50% off 

Brooks Brothers// 30% off sitewide

Chappy Wrap// 20% off sitewide with code CHEER

Club Monaco// 40% off

Dudley Stephens// 40% off sitewide with code HOLIDAY40

Hill House Home// 30% off everything


J. Crew// 50% off sitewide

J. Crew Factory// 60% off everything

Jenni Kayne// 25% off 

Kate Spade// up to 60% off everything

Kiel James Patrick// 25% off sitewide

Lake Pajamas// The Happy Everything Sale, 25% off sitewide

LeLe Sadoughi// 25% off everything with code BLACKFRIDAY

Lilly Pulitzer// 30% off your purchase for club Lilly members

Madewell// 60% off cyber deals



Neely and Chloe// up to 60% off

One Kings Lane// Up to 50% off sitewide

Pottery Barn// Up to 50% off

Ralph Lauren// enjoy 40% off

Sail to Sable// Up to 75% off



Sarah Flint// 30% off sitewide

Summersalt// up to 60% off sitewide

Tory Burch// Up to 60% off

Tuckernuck// 20% off sitewide, 25% off $500 or more, 30% off $1000 or more

Vineyard Vines// Up to 60% off

West Elm// Up to 70% off

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Pre Fourth of July Sales

 I love how holiday day sales seem to start earlier and earlier each year. I am the type of shopper who likes to shop around, add something to my bag, and think about it a little bit before I end up ordering something, so I always appreciate a little extra time to shop. There are already so many great sales underway in the spirt of the upcoming Fourth of July weekend. Obviously, I couldn’t help but share a few of my favorite sales currently underway!

photo credit @thegreylady (on instagram)

Abercrombie// 20% off almost everything!

Anthropologie// Extra 40% off Sale 

Barrington Gifts// Use code: LIBERTY for 15% off

Club Monaco// Extra 25% off

Draper James// 30% off Everything!

Hill House Home// Extra 20% off sale with code: 20FORYOU

J. Crew// Extra 60% off all sale styles

J. Crew Factory// 40% - 70% off entire site and storewide

Lilly Pulitzer// Splash Sale Up to 50% off!

Madewell// Up to 60% off

Mark and Graham// Up to 70% off and free shipping on orders $200 or more with code: SUMMER

One King’s Lane// Up to 60% off sitewide

Sarah Flint// Take an Extra $100 off sandals with code: EXTRA100 at checkout and for $60 off all other shoes you can use code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID

Shopbop// Up to 70% off sale

Summersalt// Warehouse Sale Event! Up to 60% off sitewide with code: SALE30

Vineyard Vines// Up to 70% off all sale styles

Williams Sonoma// Warehouse Sale Up to 70% off

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

Links I'm Loving

 It has been a little while since I have posted on here. The last two months have been a bit crazy, so took a mini break from the blog, but I am always active on my Instagram, so be sure to follow that platform. I usually save the ‘Links I’m Loving’ posts for Fridays, but thought it would be a nice way to get back into the swing of things! 

One// Sarah Flint x Gracie

Sarah Flint and Gracie Wallpaper have once again come together to make the most elegant and whimsical collection. The shoes in this collection are basically wearable pieces of art. And… Sarah Flint has designed a pair of sneakers just for this collection!! To save $60 at checkout be sure to use my code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID. P.S. The Natalie Sling and the Perfect Block Sandal are my personal favorites from this collection! 

 

Two// The Five-Star Weekend

Elin Hilderbrand’s books have become synonymous with the summer season. Honestly though, if you aren’t reading Elin Hilderbrand’s newest book is it even the summer season? I just started The Five-Star Weekend and I am already hooked. If you read The Hotel Nantucket last summer than her new book is an absolute must-read!

 

Three// SummerSalt Sale

Over the Years SummerSalt has created a swimsuit that anyone and everyone will appreciate. I love how supportive their suits, the color range that is offered, and the flattering cuts and styles will leaving you feeling confident all summer long. SummerSalt is currently having their annual warehouse sale and the entire website is 30% percent off!! Be sure to use code SALE30 at checkout to save 30%!!!

 

Four// Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret

I was so excited to finally watch this movie. I think it’s safe to say that at some point in time most people have read at least one Judy Blume book. As a child her books were a staple on my bookshelf, and seeing one of her books bought to life in the form of a movie was just so fun. Cannot recommend this movie enough

 

Five// Southern Tomato Sandwich

If you are from the South, then you know all too well that the classic tomato sandwich is a staple lunch item during the summer months. A couple weeks ago Southern Living did a write up about the iconic summer sandwich and it is a great read!

Thursday, March 9, 2023

6 Chic Office Design Tips for a Productive Stylish Workspace

 I have always found office design to be pretty interesting just because that is a space that tends to be a reflection of a person’s interest/profession/personality tailored to suit the environment where they work wheatear that’s at home or a traditional office setting. Today Peter Minkoff is sharing a few tips for a productive and stylish workspace!

Office design has grown in importance in recent years. The design of your office can have a significant impact on your employees' productivity as well as your clients' perception of your company. As a result, paying attention to your office design is critical, especially if you want to create a chic and modern workspace. Here are some chic office design ideas to help you create a stylish and functional space:

 

Consider the Layout and Furniture Placement

The layout and furniture placement are two of the most important aspects of designing a chic office. The layout of your office should be determined by the nature of your work and the number of employees in your organization. If you have a large office, you can divide it into zones for various departments. Furniture can also be used to define different zones. A large sofa and coffee table, for example, can be used to create a lounge area where employees can relax and brainstorm. Tall bookshelves can also be used to create a visual barrier between different workstations.

 

Use Color and Texture to Add Interest

Color and texture can have a big impact on the mood of a room. As a result, it is critical to employ them effectively in your office design. To instill a sense of energy and creativity in your workspace, use bold and bright colors. Alternatively, you can create a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere by using muted and calming colors. Texture can also be used to add interest to your office design. To add depth and dimension to your space, consider using textured wallpaper or a woven rug.

 

Introduce Natural Elements

Including natural elements in your office design can help to create a sense of calm and tranquillity. Plants, wood, and stone, for example, can help to soften the hard edges of your office design and create a more relaxed atmosphere. For instance, office plant hire is a great way to incorporate plants into your workspace. Plants not only add beauty, but they also improve air quality and reduce stress.

 

Incorporate Art and Accessories

Art and accessories can give your office design personality and character. They can also be used to reinforce your company's brand and culture. When choosing art and accessories for your office, keep the style and theme of your office in mind. For example, if you have a modern and minimalist office, you can add interest with abstract art and simple accessories. If you have a more traditional office, you can create a sense of elegance and sophistication with classic art and decorative accessories.

 

Ensure Adequate Lighting

Lighting is an essential component of any office design. Good lighting can boost productivity while reducing eye strain. When designing your office, make sure there is enough natural light. If natural light is not available, you should use artificial light sources such as overhead lights and lamps. Consider the color temperature of your lighting as well. Cool white light can help you focus and be more productive, whereas warm white light can help you relax and feel more at ease.

 

Keep it Clutter-Free

A disorganized workspace can be both distracting and overwhelming. For this reason, it is critical to keep your office design clutter-free. This can be accomplished by utilizing storage solutions such as filing cabinets and bookshelves. Encourage your employees to keep their workspaces clean and organized. A clutter-free workspace can improve focus and productivity, making it an essential component of any stylish office design.

 

Creating a stylish office requires attention to detail and a keen sense of style. You can create a chic and modern workspace that will impress both your employees and clients by considering the layout and furniture placement, using color and texture, incorporating art and accessories, introducing natural elements, ensuring adequate lighting, and keeping it clutter-free


Thursday, March 2, 2023

Sarah Flint Return To Royalty

 Sarah Flint’s Spring collection is nothing short of a dream. I always have such a love and appreciation for her attention to detail, the designs she is able to bring to life, her overall talent, and how she is able to create the most beautiful shoes and still maintain an element of comfort. Sarah Flint’s Spring Collection, Faraway Fables is being released in four section, each including a variety of shoes and a simply stunning scarf to round out each section. 

The first section in the Faraway Fables collection is ‘Return to Royalty’, and these shoes are just so stunning! I couldn’t help but share a few of my favorites… pssst… you can use my code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID for $50 off your favorite pair of 

shoes!!!!

Perfect Sacha 85// This is a heel truly fit for royalty. Again, love the hint of a half bow, and the way the straps were designed for this shoe is impressive, the structure of this shoe is simply beautiful! This style is available in 3 different colors and would be absolutely perfect for the upcoming spring and summer wedding season!

Leah 85// I am completely in love with Sarah Flint’s take on a mule slide. The details, hint of a half bow, and the overall structure of the heel is truly stunning! And… this shoe is available in 2 different colorways!

Natalie Ballerina// if you are familiar with Sarah Flint shoes, the Natalie Ballerina is the perfect combination between the original Natalie flat and and the Sacchetto Ballet Flat. The Natalie Ballerina is currently available in three different colors, and I love how the toe box is more of a square shape than rounded so it mimics the shape of a point shoe. This flat is such a classic; cannot recommend it enough! 

Natalie in Champagne Lame// The Natalie flat is probably what Sarah Flint is known best for, and for good reason! This style is available in several colors, but the Champagne Lame is the newest addition to this style, and let me just say, it is even more beautiful in person!

Perfect Kitten Pump 50// Fact: everyone needs a classic kitten heel as part of their wardrobe staple collection, and this is the perfect kitten to fill that missing spot! 

Perfect Arabesque Wedge// If you are a fan of the Arabesque Slide, then you obviously need to add the Arabesque Wedge to your spring/summer collection. This is available in two different heights and in two different colorways. Hands down, my favorite thing about a wedge is they are always so comfortable and can be dressed up or down!

Arabesque Slide in Black Nappa & Bronze Leather// Thie Arabesque Slide was a new style last year and I love the new colorway the have added! The black and gold combination for where I live makes it a slide you can easily wear 3 out of 4 seasons. This shoe is so well made and such a great investment! Again, don’t forget to use code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID for $50 off!

Friday, February 24, 2023

Links I'm Loving

 I feel like this week has been the weirdest week all the way around, but still a good one!  I honestly cannot believe we are reaching the end of February. I feel like the past few years have really flown by… Definitely making a point to savor all the moments, big and small, that happen in 2023. For now, here are a few links that I am currently loving!

One// Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret

I feel like this is such a blast from the past from my childhood. Judy Blume is such a beloved author, and I am so excited that this book has finally been made into a movie! 

 

Two// Sarah Flint $100 off Sacchetto Flats

This is a moment that calls for some excitement!! Sarah Flint Saccetto Flats are one of my go-to shoes anytime of the year. The leather that is used to make this shoe is so soft and I absolutely love the fact that a point shoe was the inspiration for this shoe. You can use code: FAB100 to receive $100 off any Sacchetto Flats, and you can also use code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID to receive $50 off any other pair of Sarah Flint shoe that catches your eye! 

 

Three// Joanna Gaines Chicken Noodle Soup

I have been so impressed with Joanna Gaines recipes so far. Her Chicken Noodle soup is so classic, easy to make, and the best comfort food on a rainy day. Side Note: this recipe does call for homemade noodles…. I cheated a little and used egg noodles in mind and it worked perfectly, for those of you who, like me, don’t want to take the time to make your own noodles.

 

Four// Annual LAKE Pajama Sale

Love, love, love these pajamas. They are so soft and 100% worth the investment. If you are on the fence about Lake Pajamas or are just looking to add a few more pairs to your collection, this is the perfect opportunity to either purchase your first pair or stock up on some old favorites! Fit note: Definitely recommend sizing up; these pajamas do tend to shrink a bit if you plan on tossing them in the dryer. I usually wash mine, hang them up to dry, and run them through the dryer on the lowest heat setting to get the wrinkles out and make them soft, and even just a short time I have them in the dryer they do draw up slightly. For size reference, I wear and XS in J. Crew pajamas and a Small in LAKE Pajamas.  

 

Five// The White Lotus

I know, I am a little late to the party on this one… I just finished watching White Lotus, and it is an absolute must watch! 

Monday, February 20, 2023

Presidents' Day Sale

 I always love a holiday and the fact that they usually add up to a relaxing day complete with sales! Is it just me, or does anyone else feel like Presidents’ Day has evolved into an actual holiday over the years? I know banks, post office, etc. have always been closed, but I feel like schools weren’t… I feel like I used to geta Presidents’ Day coloring sheet and crossword puzzle and other than that nothing was really out of the ordinary… Regardless, I am glad that it has evolved into an actual holiday, and let me just say, there are some amazing sales this year!!

Abercrombie// 20% off almost everything when you buy 3+ items or 15% off 2 items

Ann Taylor// 35% off your full-price purchase

Anthropologie// 30% off 100s of Customer Favorites

Bloomingdales// take and extra 30% off select items

Club Monaco// up to 50% off

J. Crew// Extra 60% off sale styles, plus free shipping with code: WEEKEND

J. Crew Factory// 50% off entire site & storewide

Loft// 40% off full-price styles + an extra 20% off select styles

Mark & Graham// up to 70% of and free shipping on orders $100 or more with code: SHIPFREE

Nordstrom// Save up to 50% 

One Kings Lane// 25% off sitewide

Pottery Barn// Up to 50% off Furniture, Bedding, Décor, and more

Sarah Flint// $50 off with code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID

Serena & Lily// up to 30% off all outdoor

Shopbop// Extra 25% off with code EXTRA25

SummerSalt// Save $10 with code: LAURENJS10

Vineyard Vines// Up to 60% off all sale styles

West Elm// Presidents’ Day Sale up to 50% off

Williams Sonoma// Up to 70% off cookware, cutlery, electrics & more


Thursday, January 19, 2023

How To Take Care of Your Pet :: Tips and Tricks

 So many families and individuals seem to choose the holiday season to add a furry family member to their life. Kittens, puppies, and other animal {baby or adult} are always beyond words precious, but they are also a lot of work… but 100% worth it! Peter’s Guest post could not have come at a more perfect time! Today Peter is guest posting on the blog and share a few tips on how to take care of your pet!

Did you recently get yourself a pet friend? Our furry companions can truly bring a lot of joy into our households, but they are also a responsibility. Knowing how to provide them with proper care will help you guide your pet to the right path. What’s better than a happy and healthy pup or kitty? Here are some care tips that will certainly help your new pet live a long and fulfilling life. 

Pets need social interaction

As a responsible pet owner, you know how crucial it is to ensure your pet gets enough playtime and social contact.

 

Making sure your pet is active enough during the day is the greatest method to ensure it receives the exercise it needs. For example, you could leave your pet with some toys and play with them all day, or you could hire a pet sitter to make sure it receives the necessary exercise and companionship while you're away. After all, a happy pet can significantly improve your mental health, so keeping them happy will keep you sane too.

Proper nutrition is key to pets’ health

Our animals should follow the same health guidelines that humans do. The food you provide them should be nutrient-dense. Feed your pet at the same times you would normally eat. Plan ahead and have at least two to three months' worth of pet food on hand. 

 

Give them access to a fresh bowl of water on a frequent basis to ensure they stay hydrated throughout the hot summer months. Make sure to always feed them food that is appropriate for their species and age. Dental sticks for dogs can also be helpful for younger dogs, providing them with extra vitamins while being comforting to nibble on.

 

To guarantee your pet is getting a nutritious diet, go for fresh, natural ones. Furthermore, they provide breed-specific, age-appropriate, and weight-specific dietary programs for your pet. Before giving your pet a new diet, consult with your veterinarian. 

Provide them with a warm place to stay

Cats should not be let outside because they are vulnerable to harm from moving vehicles, aggressive dogs, and other animals. The safest place for a cat inside is a room or bed with some kind of cover, like a cave.

 

Make sure your dog is microchipped and that the microchip is registered with your current contact information if you plan on letting him off the leash within your enclosed yard. Provide safe drinking water, shelter, and safety at all times. All the dogs, regardless of their size and age, love their indoor beds, so it’d be a good idea to invest in a comfy mini-bed for them to use during their downtime. If you need more tips on how to take care of your new puppy, check out this article.

 

Animals shouldn't spend all their time outside. They need protection from the sun, rain, snow, and wind. And keep in mind that predators like coyotes, who are nocturnal but may still be seen during the day, consider your pets easy pickings and can also be a danger to them.

If you care about your pet's health, you take them to an annual vet exams

Even though it's easy to put off, annual veterinary checks are essential to your pet's health. If problems aren't addressed early on, even seemingly small ones might escalate.

 

Because we can't always be present for our dogs, it's crucial that they have annual examinations at the vet. The veterinarian may do diagnostic procedures, including blood testing and X-rays, as well as perform a physical examination to look for sickness.

 

If you accept the vet's advice, your pet has a better chance of living a long and happy life. If medicine is required, your vet can provide it, and they may also suggest other experts your pet may find helpful down the road.

 

Keep your pet's teeth in good shape. Even though your veterinarian can provide you with valuable insight into your pet's dental health, you can play an active role by providing dental treats and rinses at home.

 

To provide your pets with the best care, make sure to follow the advice above. Proper socialization, food, shelter, and medical care are of the utmost importance to all pets. We hope your beloved puppy or cat stays with your family for years to come.