Category: Momgirblog

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Mother’s Day is just a few weeks away and if you’re struggling with what to ask for…here are a few of my favorites! From Lilly Pulitzer to household appliances and even Broadway tickets! You’re bound to find something on this list you’re hoping for!

  1. Cuisineart Air Fryer & Convection Oven: Bake, broil, grill, warm! This thing is bound to make your life a whole heck of a lot easier with all of it’s functions!
  2. Countertime Supreme Creme: You can’t reverse time, but you can slow down the aging process. This overnight cream is not only clean and made with only the best ingredients, but it has anti-aging effects to have you looking like your best self!
  3. All Bright C Serum: Hello sunshine! This stuff is sunshine in a bottle and with summer just around the bend you want that glowing complexion, minus the dark sun spots. Meet your new best friend, thank me later.
  4. Philips Pasta Maker: Now that’s amore! I am a pasta FREAK and my husband has been asking me why I haven’t invested in one of these yet, I’m thinking it’s my time! With 3 different interchangeable plates, this puppy is bound to satisfy any pasta craving you have without leaving your home!
  5. Legally Blonde The Musical at The Kravis Center: What like it’s hard? Grab your mama, your daughter, your besties and hop on over to see one of Reese Witherspoons best films (in my opinion) come to life on the big stage at the Kravis Center, for Legally Blonde The Musical! If you’re more into the experience sort of gift, then this is bound to be a great time and the ultimate GIRL POWER experience! Show opens Tuesday May 16th and runs through the weekend to May 21st!
  6. Tory Burch Eleanor Slides: You need to protect your twinkle toes while lounging poolside this summer and there’s nothing more comfy or versatile than these Eleanor Tory’s.
  7. Bogg Bag: With all of the convenient snapping compartments this bag is bound to be your new bestie! It’s fashionable, affordable and the best part? Waterproof! One of my best purchases hands down!
  8. Lilly Pulitzer Runaround Belt Bag: As a momma of two I’m always running to and from the baseball fields and the cheer gym, this runaround belt bag is light neoprene, fun and flirty and as long as it’s swung around your shoulders you won’t forget your cell phone or keys!
  9. Lilly Pulitzer Agnes Bikini: I don’t know about you, but I like to splurge once a year on a new bikini! This year’s choice is the Agnes Lilly Pulitzer. The seashell print is just darling, the bow in the front is so chic and I love the removable strap!

*I do make a small commission on these clickable links. It’s the small gift I get in return for sharing with you all of my faves! Appreciate your support always! -Briana D.

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On Cloud Wine at Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa 

Sweeping valleys, rolling vineyards and the most exquisite hospitality experience is what you’ll find if you pay a visit to Napa Valley. Just an hour north of the Bay Area of San Francisco, wine country is a must do for a weekend getaway or a special occasion. My husband and I decided to take a trip to the wine capital of the U.S. to celebrate our 12th wedding anniversary! Let’s face it…after doing our best to celebrate our tenth anniversary under COVID restrictions and being under quarantine for almost 3 years with our family, we knew it was just the perfect place to get away from it all. 

After extensive research we settled on Calistoga, an adorable little town just north of Napa, known for its wellness and hot springs experiences. We knew we wanted something of a small town feel and away from all the hustle and bustle and The Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa was the absolute perfect place. Located at the beginning of the Silverado Trail, this brand new retro-modern inspired boutique hotel has it all. From beautiful views, several mineral pools at different temperatures, free bike rentals, bocce ball courts and an incredible restaurant  with the most amazing food, called The Fleetwood, not to mention their spa (more on those in a minute). As soon I laid eyes on the property, I knew it was the exact vibe we were looking for and it exceeded our expectations. It’s a laid back, Californian, word of mouth hotel, that doesn’t miss a beat. Inspired by the great American Road trip, their website describes it as, “The classic roadside boutique hotel, but better.” I couldn’t agree more. You can choose from their super nostalgic camper rooms, that are a play on camper vans or their newly renovated vista rooms, complete with balconies overlooking the Vaca mountains, which is what we opted for. Every detail accounted for, every person with a smile on their face. As I sit here writing this, I’m already trying to figure out how to make it back out there.

Coming from Palm Beach, we live in one of the top travel destinations in the U.S., so our standards are pretty high and our trip lived up to them all. Below is an itinerary of our trip. Hope you find value in it.

*We did partner with Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa, but all opinions are my own. 

NAPA VALLEY 12TH ANNIVERSARY TRIP

DAY 1 FRIDAY OCTOBER 7TH

9:25A Est JET BLUE FLIGHT FLL TO SFO 

12:30P pst ARRIVE

1:30P TAKE UBER TO GRAB PORSCHE

-We used a company called Turo, it’s sort of like an airbnb for cars. Highly recommend.

2-3P DRIVE TO SAUSALITO & HANG OUT

-We ate at an incredible place on the water called The Joinery. We shared a falafel burger & a beet salad.

3-4:30P DRIVE TO CALISTOGA MOTOR LODGE AND SPA & CHECK IN

-They have the most adorable little lobby and we were welcomed by the staff with open arms!

6P PRISONER WINE DINNER

-Prisoner is not your average winery, it’s modern and sexy and almost counter to what you think a winery should be and we LOVED it. Prisoner Wines is one of our faves and we were thrilled to learn they had a Friday night DJ experience, complete with Chicago style pizza and 2 bottles of wine! Highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time.

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DAY 2 SATURDAY OCTOBER 8TH

9:30A- CALISTOGA BIKE RIDE AND BREAKFAST 

-We walked around the property some and decided to snag some bikes and ride over to the cutest little cafe called Sam’s General Store. It’s the last standing cottage in its original location built by the founder of Calistoga which was pretty neat! We grabbed a quick bite and a coffee, then headed back to start the day!

10:30A- YOUNTVILLE 

-If you like the finer things in life then Yountville is the place to be. A mix of fancy finds and good food, with a  whimsical ambience that’s tough beat. The streets are lined with Michelin starred restaurants and the picturesque scenery is as if you stepped into a time warp. There are so many places to choose from it’s hard to decide where to land, but you can’t go wrong. We walked the town and took in Restoration Hardware (headquartered just outside of San Francisco) and made plans to return later on in our trip. 

11:30A- DOMAINE CARNEROS TASTING 

-Domaine Carneros is quite the institution. While you can’t really get a “tour” of the vineyard, we enjoyed an amazing sparkling wine and cheese flight al fresco overlooking the incredible Napa Valley. The mansion and view of the valley were quite amazing. Sort of a right of passage. 

1:30P- LUNCH AT CELADON

-We made our way to Downtown Napa and walked along the Napa River, where the Napa Mill sits. There are a bunch of cute shops and restaurants. We had lunch at Celadon, the first fine dining establishment in downtown Napa and a locale known for its global comfort food. It’s located inside of the historic Hatt building, which looked like a garage turned restaurant. We sat out on their quaint patio…Michael had  the chuck burger, a cheeseburger with an over medium egg and I had the sweet coconut fried prawns. We grabbed a coffee and at a local cafe and I snagged a cute Napa Sweater at Shoppe 12. 

3:30P- CAYMUS WINERY

-A trip to Napa isn’t complete without a visit to Caymus Vineyards. A favorite of Michael’s and myself, this experience is made to feel as if you’re enjoying a glass of wine in the comfort of your own home, while sitting in the backyard. Mr. Caymus himself was on property hosting a senator and while we didn’t see or meet him, we did feel like we were hanging out at his house. Truly memorable. 

8:30P- FLEETWOOD CALISTOGA

-We decided to mosey on back to our resort and enjoy the mineral pools and just relax, which with 2 kids we almost never get to do. After that we got ready for dinner at Fleetwood Calistoga on Calistoga Motor Lodge’s property…serving up Italian and wood fired mediteranean food. We started with the fried olives and marcona almonds and then had the striploin steak with and gnocchi, roasted garlic, maitake mushrooms, snap peas and truffle balsamico for dinner which was the perfect meal after a great day!

DAY 3 SUNDAY OCTOBER 9TH

9:30A BRUNCH AT FLEETWOOD CALISTOGA 

-We started the day off at the place right where we left off. Fleetwood Calistoga serves up the most decadent weekend brunch from 8a-1p, with so many speciality drinks and items to choose from! Coffee and bloody Marys to start. We decided to share the fried chicken and waffles and the Edgar’s chilequiles, which after sitting next to the most adorable local couple is I guess a thing in the area. It’s packed with red chili salsa, chicken, corn tortilla, pepper jack cheese and slow-cooked eggs! My mouth’s watering just thinking about it! Highly recommend!

10:45A SPA TREATMENTS AT MOONACRE SPA 

-Cake, bake, rinse and relax! That’s the motto over at the Moon Acre Spa located right on property! Right after brunch, we got changed and moseyed on over for the works, otherwise known as the MoonAcre Mud Bake, Bath and Massage and this 2 hour historic ritual was just what the doctor ordered. The spa itself is reminiscent of an 1880’s Calistoga bath house, where community and good vibes are their motto! We started with a really nice, relaxing soak in a clawfoot tub, filled with geothermal water and re-mineralizing lavender bath salts, we then dried off and made our way to the outdoor “mud bar,” for a sponge exfoliation and a painted mineral-rich body mud mask! We relaxed in the beautiful Calistoga sun under the lush landscape and umbrellas in the spa garden, then rinsed off in the outdoor shower, followed up by a steam, then finished with a 60 minute full body massage. The experience was unlike any other we have ever done and the best part is you don’t even have to stay on property to take advantage of this signature self care ritual! I call that a win win!

4P ROBERT CRAIG WINERY

-We left the afternoon open, so we could see what came as a recommendation to us. One of the sommeliers at Prisoner said to check out Robert Craig Winey and we are so glad we did. It was a spur of the moment choice that left a lasting impression. You may have noticed their small lot wines harvested from Summit Mountain at some restaurants you frequent. We visited their tasting salon at a little bungalow located in the heart of downtown Napa. They made some last minute accommodations for us and were so incredibly knowledgeable and sweet. It was as if we were sitting in someone’s living room enjoying good conversation and wine. If you’re looking for a local, personalized experience, this is it!

5:30 OXBOW MARKET

-We did a quick pop by before heading back to Yountville, because we had heard a bunch about this food hall. From oysters to cupcakes, pizza to deli, this place is feast for the senses and a great place if you just can’t decide what to have. From a little marketplace and both outdoor, indoor and bar seating, Oxbow is quite the little scene and I snagged a little focaccia after our tasting. 

6P REGIS OVA

-If you know anything about Napa the culinary experiences are just as important as the vino. While the critically acclaimed, top of the heap Chef Thomas Keller’s French Laundry didn’t have an availability (they open up reservations at the beginning of the month and fill up pretty quickly), we were able to snag an exclusive experience at their sister pop-up thanks to a recommendation from a friend who used to be a chef at TFL. Regiis Ova is the lounge of all lounges. Wether you choose to sit inside their swanky indoor or outdoor lounge, you can’t go wrong. The live music and champagne is just flowing and so are the good times. RS is known for as the “Ultimate Caviar Experience.” With a few fan favorites of the French Laundry Menu and some newer items, this experience was a MUST! We got the pigs in a blanket featuring Hobbs Pork Sausage, Brioche and a Dijonaise Aioli. This fun treat will never be the same for me. We followed that up with the most awesome play on tater tots…They were these mini Yukon gold potato croquettes, with Hobbs bacon Creme Fraiche and Classic Caviar. Those two paired with some bubbly was a party for our tastebuds!

7:45P R+D Kitchen

-We chose to eat here, because it came recommended to use by some locals and the name of the restaurant happens to be the initials of our son! No matter what you’re in the mood for R+D has it! Hubby got the Kyuri Maki Roll, packed with tuna, seasoned rice, wrapped in cucumber with trout row and I opted for some comfort food with the chicken meatballs and spaghetti, featuring sweet & poblano peppers, tomato sauce and Reggiano. 

DAY 4 MONDAY OCTOBER 10TH

We drove through Sonoma and headed back home. We did stop at this amazing breakfast joint called Basque Boulangerie. A fresh croissant filled with eggs, ricotta, pesto and tomato was the perfect end to an incredible trip. Our first time to Napa was definitely one for the books and one we will cherish for the rest of our lives. If you’ve been on the fence about booking a trip, here’s your sign to just do it! Choose The Calistoga MotorLodge and Spa as your place to put your fit up and chill, you’ll be glad you did! Cheers!

-Briana D. 

Check out this reel of out trip:

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Our Journey to Jekyll Island Club Resort

Imagine being transported to another time. A time long before you existed. Engulfed in live oak trees as far as the eyes can see, moss hanging from every branch, horse drawn carriages lining the roads, entrenched in a rich history beyond imagination. There’s a place off the coast of Georgia just over 90 miles south of Savannah, called Jekyll Island. Only accessible by bridge, a land surrounded by water, lined with homes dating back to the 1800’s, where even the beaches seem to have left behind some stories worth telling.

The Jekyll Island Club Resort is a place where the most prominent members in American culture came to escape, to share good times and get away from the hustle and bustle since 1888. Names like Rockefeller, Pulitzer and J.P. Morgan to name a few, would winter here at a time when it was known as a hunting club. The entire location feels like you’ve immersed yourself into the Gilded Age, a season that seemed a bit simpler. The club was abandoned after WWII and there are several buildings on property that still have yet to be refurbished with some chilling tales (one of my favorite parts). The hotel was revamped back in 1984 and has since been on the register of “Historic Hotels of America,” since 1994.

The Jekyll Island Club Resort is famed for the first ever transcontinental call from inventor Alexander Graham Bell between Jekyll Island, New York City, Washington D.C. and San Francisco. The hall of mirrors are lined with historic photos, the walls are a rich mahogany and the fire places have a vibe you can only feel.

My family and I first discovered Jekyll earlier this year on a stop to Asheville thanks to a friend. It was only a pit stop on our road trip, knowing there was much left to explore and we just couldn’t wait to come back. We were ecstatic to be able to visit again this summer in early July. Upon pulling up to The Jekyll Island Club Resort, once you pass the darling cottages that were once homes to families, you can’t help but notice the top of the building and it’s circular turret for which the building is famed. A remarkable structure that has undergone recent renovations and a darling place to enjoy some family time. With 6 places to eat, 2 pools, beach access and the option to stay in either the cottages, the beachside or the building itself, there’s something for everyone. Our family dined at The Wharf on the dock where much of the island’s business took place back in the day. The seafood was fresh and the service was friendly. A view of the port and the ships were stunning and the live music didn’t hurt either. We then made our way to the Lobby Bar, where we played some board games and sat in the rich leather seats, while a movie was playing in the background overlooking the gorgeous pool from the Riverfront Veranda. The room itself was amazing and featured a fireplace and a veranda to enjoy the view of the grounds and visitors could enjoy a game of croquet (a famed 1900s summer game).

The following morning we enjoyed an exquisite breakfast in the Grand Dining Room, that had a striking resemblance of the Titanic and we walked the grounds to discover the cottages you can stay in for reunions or just dive a little deeper into the history of the island. We made our way past an abandoned casino, where I’m sure many a good times were had and a home that no matter how many times they attempt to renovate it, the ghosts who still live there seem to destroy any progress made. From the sweet shoppe, to the art shoppe, to the turtle rehab center (the only one in GA), there’s so much to do on the historic district grounds, accessible by bike, foot or even trolley.

We made our way over the beach side, past the village where things are a little more updated. At the Jekyll Ocean club there’s an updated pool, with rooms to stay in oceanside and a restaurant. We opted to hang by the beach for a few before ending the day with a picnic on Driftwood Beach, a place where eroded soil was unable to support the trees and is now a breathtaking beautiful backdrop for a town with 3500 years of history left to be explored.

If you’re even thinking about visiting The Jekyll Island Club do it and if this is the first time you’ve heard of it, then you’re welcome. We had quite experience in just 24 hours and cannot wait to pay a visit again sometime soon. Be sure to check out our adventure in a new reel over on IG! Hope you enjoy it!

**This is a sponsored collab post with The Jekyll Island Club Resort and all opinions are that of Briana D’Andrea of Momgirlblog.com.

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Holiday Gift Guides!

1. On Cloud: https://bit.ly/3XxDhNW
2. Lilly Headband: https://bit.ly/3XyWoqy
3. Uggs: https://bit.ly/3OEsaPc
4. Spanx: https://bit.ly/3OC0zy7
5. Dyson: https://bit.ly/3F3wPqJ
6. Diamond Tennis: https://bit.ly/3gH0vAi
7. Ysl tote: https://bit.ly/3gyilp8
8. Best in clean heroes: https://www.beautycounter.com/brianadandrea/?goto=product/best-in-clean-heroes
9. Going Places Kit: https://bit.ly/3gBjigo
1. Surround Sound: https://bit.ly/3AJbXT5
2. Pressure Washer: https://bit.ly/3Va1AQg
3. Stormtrooper Hat: https://bit.ly/3AMyI8G
4. Workout Shorts: https://bit.ly/3ibJD5j
5. Nespresso: https://bit.ly/3ieibUA
6. Car Wash Kit: https://bit.ly/3i5qa65
7. Yeti: https://bit.ly/3AJkwgz
8. Metcon: https://bit.ly/3tWIwZO
9. Firestick: https://bit.ly/3Vp9Hbh
1. iPad: https://bit.ly/3GEYcZn
2. Art Kit: https://bit.ly/3Xo9nLX
3. Case: https://bit.ly/3EYEOVX
4. Camera: https://bit.ly/3V6JxKE
5. Slime Kit: https://bit.ly/3gwaiZY
6. Candle Maker: https://bit.ly/3OBGWWY
7. Airpods: https://bit.ly/3XrX4OB
8. Fidget Set: https://bit.ly/3EuwTOC
9. Mini Brands: https://bit.ly/3u0jTLQ
1. iPad: https://bit.ly/3VrADYb
2. Fortnite Bucks: https://bit.ly/3XsYnNh
3. Stylus: https://bit.ly/3U4Wbsj
4. Crayola Art Kit: https://bit.ly/3Xo6uL7
5. iPad Case: https://bit.ly/3GJcCb0
6. Millenium Falcon Lego: https://bit.ly/3VlujkO
7. Nikes: https://bit.ly/3GJmUaX
8. Dune Buggy: https://bit.ly/3XHrFYP
9. Jordan Hoodie: https://bit.ly/3ibf6Et

So very grateful for everyone and their support! I always love putting together these lists, because not only does it help me to get organized, but it inspires all of you! Feel free to visit my Amazon or LTK storefront for all the inspo and don’t forget to shop all things Beautycounter! Enjoy the holiday season and make sure to add something special to your cart just for you! 🫶🏼 *adds to cart 😉

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Back to school is here!

Summer went by in a flash and back to school is here! We hope you had a fabulous summer packed with fun and memories to last a lifetime. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t going to miss the easy pace of slow summer, but we are excited for a new school year! There’s something to be said about fresh backpacks, new notebooks and pencils! As I kiss my kiddos and send them off to 1st and 4th grade, I couldn’t help but share our favorite finds! From clothes to supplies and everything in between, tax free is in full effect here in Florida and runs through August 3rd!

We partnered with WPTV NewsChannel 5, Wellington Green Mall, J.C. Penney’s, Francesca’s, Forever XXI and Abercrombie to give you all the back to school fashion you’ve been looking for in partnership with The Buzz Agency and sponsored by Cinnabon. Can you guess which color is this fall’s winner?

Amazon Finds for Back to School
Target Finds for Back to School

**This is a sponsored collab post with The Mall at Wellington Green and all opinions are that of 

Briana D’Andrea with Momgirlblog.com.

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Top 5 most patriotic ways to celebrate The 4th of July!

‘Merica! Land of the free and home of the brave! Now that summer is upon us, it’s time to bleed red, white and blue and celebrate what makes the U.S.A so spectacular! Here are 5 ways to show your patriotism this fourth!

  1. Sport your red, white and blue! Whether it’s a bathing suit, top or fun accessories you’re into…this list has everything you need to show your love for the U.S of A!
  2. Enjoy the fireworks! Every town has a free event where you can bring a blanket and enjoy the show! The Village of Wellington will host a free fireworks spectacular this 4th that’s sure to please! From food trucks to bounces houses and games, the event is from 12p to 7p and fireworks will start at 9:15p!
  3. Plan a bbq! Nothing screams the 4th of July like a good hot dog, some watermelon and corn on the cob! Gather your friends and family and enjoy some yummy food to celebrate America’s B-Day!
  4. Donate or fight for a good cause! No matter your stance or political party, it’s always a good time to show your love and support for the causes you believe in. Some of my favorites include Everytown (helping to prevent gun violence), text “BETTERBEAUTY” to 52886 to help fight for better beauty laws and more health protective legislation in America and sign a petition with change.org to continue the fight for women’s right to an abortion.
  5. Enjoy your freedoms and reflect on the fact that there are military who are protecting our rights as citizens to be living in the land of the free and the home of the brave! America the Beautiful is a great book to teach young children about our great country.

-Briana D.

*I do receive a small commission for items purchased through 3rd party links. All opinions are that of Briana D’Andrea from momgirlblog and BD Media.

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Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

From the Dyson hair dryer to Bogg Bags, Nikes, shades, Lilly Pulitzer and clean beauty, these are my top 7 gifts for mamas! Beautycounter.com/Brianadandrea to shop beauty and get 30% off with code “CLEANFORALL30” 💐💋#happymothersday #LTKMothersDay #LTKGiftGuide#LTKfamily
From the Dyson hair dryer to Bogg Bags, Nikes, shades, Lilly Pulitzer and clean beauty, these are my top 7 gifts for mamas! Beautycounter.com/Brianadandrea to shop beauty and get 30% off with code “CLEANFORALL30” 💐💋#happymothersday #LTKMothersDay
#LTKGiftGuide
#LTKfamily

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, I break down my top 7 gifts for your favorite person!

  1. Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer: This hair dryer is the mother of all dryers! I have a TON of hair and it has cut my style time down in half! I’m talking 40 to 20 minutes out the door! The best part? It’s light weight and comes with a variety of add-ons to help curl, minimize frizz and so much more. No more going through blow dryers all the time. Dyson makes pretty great vacuums, so it only makes sense that they’re killing the blow dryer game! Hurry, because these sell out pretty quickly!
  2. Beautycounter’s Flawless in 5: Nothing says I love you like #cleanbeauty! Flawless in 5 takes you from drab to fab in just 5 short minutes! It includes your choice of a foundation (with or without spf), eyebrow pencil or gel, volumizing mascara, refillable creme blush and lip gloss. All of the shades are customizable to you and your skin tone. Need help? Just message me and I’d be happy to guide you in the right direction! New clients receive 30% off with the code “CLEANFORALL30” through the end of April. Shop now at Beautycounter.com/brianadandrea.
  3. You know I’m a #lillypulitzer gal and I just can’t get enough of the the new 2 piece Rosalie Skirt Set. The dainty shoulder ties and the periwinkle color is just so darling and the perfect Mother’s Day outfit. Nothing says Happy Mother’s Day like a floral Lilly set.
  4. Meet your new best friend: The Bogg Bag! This waterproof, functional bucket bag is waterproof and perfect for that beach or boat day! It comes with a variety of inserts and clip ons for you to mix and match for tip top organization! The best part? It comes in a variety of fashion forward styles. I of course chose the Palm Tree print, the leopard comes in a close second!
  5. It’s time to set those feet in motion and hit the pavement in my favorite Nike sneaks! The Metcon 6 Nikes allow your feet to get the oxygen they need to move at lightening speed! In the most breathable design yet, limit pressure and increases stability! Plus the variety of colors are fun!
  6. Get them hater blockers out! Diff Eyewear is a company with a purpose and their shade styles are quite the fashion forward piece! I opted for the “Vania.” Black and classic yet with a statement, these shades are the perfect “mom”-cessory. More than 2.7 million people have received eye care thanks to Diff’s program, “Gift of Sight.” Each purchase helps someone in need to see a bit clearer. Now if that isn’t a reason to sport these, I don’t know what is. #giveback
  7. With summer just around the bend or maybe a Mother’s Day getaway, Beautycounter’s Countertime travel kit is the gift you never knew you needed! It comes with the most adorable little mesh (TSA approved) bag and 5 products designed to keep your youth even while on the go. Featuring Countertime Anti-Aging Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil, Mineral Boost Hydrating Essence, Tripeptide Radiance Serum, Antioxident Soft Cream and Tetrapeptide Supreme Cream, the perfect recipe to minimize fine lines and wrinkles! What could be better?

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Top 5 Family Photography Tips w. Elina’s Dream Photography!

Picture this. 

You and your people in your favorite place…all smiles, hugs and good vibes. 

Making memories that last you a lifetime. 

Taking photos with your family should be a fun and engaging time. 

If I’m being honest, I know it can be tough to rally the troops and get the look you were hoping for, but with these top 5 tips you’ll be sure to stay ahead of the game when it comes time to snapping those pics that leave lasting memories!

  1. Plan Ahead!
  • Discuss with your photographer when and where you want to shoot! 
  • Golden hour (sunset) makes for the best pics, so keep that in mind.
  • Remind your family of your expectations! Is it one location? 3? Map out your day so everyone is on the same page. Communication is key!
  • Don’t make any other plans for the day. Coming straight from a birthday party or event can make for some overtired kiddos!

2. Simplicity is key!

  • Don’t overcomplicate your outfits. Yes, you want to look fabulous, but let’s try to keep everyone comfortable too! Try to color coordinate…the less busy the better! 

3. Come prepared! 

  • Snacks, iPads, perhaps or a special treat? Give the kids something to look forward to, so they know once they’re done they get to reward themselves for cooperating! 

4. Learn to pivot!

  • Yes, it might rain, kids might break down, but be open to shifting your expectations of what the perfect shoot should look like and manage your ability to realize there might be some obstacles and it will be just fine!

5. Have fun! 

  • You will look back at these precious photos for years to come and be so glad you took the time to make your family feel so important!

The next time you decide to book a family session you should totally consider working with Elina’s Dream Photography. Elina has an artistic passion for photos and snapping just the right one! Her mission is to let the love shine through every photo she takes.  

We met via Instagram, had a brief phone conversation and I just knew we had to collaborate! From connecting as Wellington mamas by way of New York and a true love for doing all things creative, she was open, honest and totally flexible. 

Our session started on Palm Beach Island where we snapped some pics on a dreamy winding road (kids decided to pass out on us, so we let them sleep and enjoyed was was almost like an engagement shoot! Lol) and of course it started to rain! So we ducked for cover and took some amazing photos at Bethesda by the Sea, made our way to the iconic Palm Beach clock tower and finished off the shoot, by the famous “blue doors.”

Our photos came back so fast and each one was more beautiful than the next. 

Elina IS a dream and I would absolutely recommend her for your next family photo session. 

You can get connected with her and see her incredible work here.

*This is a sponsored post. All opinions and suggestions are that of Briana D’Andrea of momgirlblog. 

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Briana D'Andrea & family pose in front of Kravis Center Christmas Tree!

New Year, New Shows at The Kravis Center

Since the holidays have come to a close, the curtains are up at the Kravis Center and the New Year calls for new shows, designed to both get you out of your seat and keep you mesmerized! 

The family and I got the unique chance to get all dressed up to see “Rudolph the Musical,” just before closing out 2021. We put on our Christmas best and headed to the performing arts center in downtown West Palm Beach, to see one of only two exclusive shows of season. With strict COVID protocols in place, (*see below), we felt safe and at ease while singing along to everyone’s favorite reindeer tune! Upon being greeted by a giant red tree, grabbing a few tasty snacks, we found our seats and were ready to ride on Santa’s sleigh! The costumes, the set design and even the original score were incredible! Shockingly, I think my husband has been bit by the showbiz bug, because he thoroughly enjoyed it as well! It took me back to my high school days, performing on stage and feeling the rush of the curtain call. It was such an incredible time had by all and we cannot wait to go back soon!

New Year means new shows at The Kravis Center and we loved Rudolph the Musical!
New Year means new shows at The Kravis Center and we loved “Rudolph the Musical!”

Today marks the 2022 season at The Kravis Center, as they welcome their latest show “SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical,” known as the girl from Boston with a voice from heaven in what is said to be a ‘moving tribute to the voice of a generation,’ with tickets starting at $33. 

This weekend The Eisenhower Dance Troop invites patrons to experience an evening of exhilarating dance in a show called “F-E-E-L,” for $40 and a free drink. Cheers!

“SUMMER”
“F-E-E-L”

Then later this month Ledisi sings “Nina,” which is considered a beautifully orchestrated mixture of classical, jazz and rhythm & blues in honor of the great Nina Simone and if you can’t catch that show, then hopefully you can grab a ticket for Pink Martini and China Forbes, which will feature dozens of musicians singing songs in 25 languages. Both shows are offered at a starting price point of $29. 

“Ledisi”
Pink Martini & China Forbes
“PROUD Tina”

The month will close out with an “Ultimate Tribute to Tina Turner” in “PROUD Tina!” From a live band to vocalists and dancers, the show is guaranteed to be an electrifying showcase of The Queen of Rock and Roll’s greatest hits throughout the decades! From her smash hit ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It?,’ to ‘Proud Mary,’ the show will certainly have you rolling on the river! Tickets start at just 25 bucks!

Phew! That’s just January! Visit kravis.org to see their complete list of shows, snag tickets and get all of your questions answered!

*Upon entry everyone is required to show their vaccination card or a negative COVID test result, no less than 3 days old. You’re welcome to arrive early on site to take a complimentary test if that works better for you. Children under 12 are not required to do so. 

*Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post and a partnership in conjunction with Kravis.org. Opinions mentioned are original and that of Briana D’Andrea and momgirlblog.com. Follow Briana D’Andrea for her latest updates! 

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