Tag: mommyoftwo

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.

Briana D.Leave a comment

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 😉

Briana D.Leave a comment

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.

Briana D.Leave a comment

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.

Briana D.Leave a comment

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?

Briana D.Leave a comment

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. 

Briana D.Leave a comment
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! 

Briana D.Leave a comment

Get Dressed In Luxury For Less!

Dress Me For Less Lux can make all of your personal shopping dreams come true! (photo cred: @elinasdreamphotography)

Have your eye on that perfect designer handbag, but not sure how to get your hands on it?

Meet Allysa, your personal shopper and fashionable friend. Dress Me For Less Lux is her latest business venture after working in the watch and car industry, buying and selling for many years. The company aims to find you the best deals and one of a kind designer purses, shoes, wallets and fashion accessories.

Designer finds with you in mind.
photo cred: @elinasdreamphotography

From the biggest names in fashion like Chanel, Louboutin, Prada and Gucci to Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent, Allysa helps you skip the long lines and haggling in stores, to offer a seamless virtual shopping experience. Think upscale Amazon! If that isn’t music to your ears, when there’s a sale she’s the first to know and she’s able to pass those savings along to you, thanks to her amazing relationships with sales associates she’s developed over the course of her career. 

No need to worry about authenticity, hidden fees or waiting days to get that perfect unicorn you’ve been looking for. Allysa and Dress Me For Less Lux takes the guesswork out and ships straight to your nearest FedEx in just 2 days, fully insured to reduce the risk of it being snagged off your doorstep. 

Allysa truly cares about getting to know her client. Whether it’s finding the perfect pochette for date night, the carry all for busy mamas or that special wallet fit for your hubby, she learns your budget, wants and needs and makes all of your designer dreams come true, even with those diamond in the rough, hard to find, sold out products! 

Skip the questionable EBay market and the nuisance of dragging your people to the store to shop, (we all know how that can go), support small business and let Allysa work her magic. She only charges a 10% finders fee versus shopping on other sites with higher markups and hidden fees. All prices including tax and shipping are listed on her Instagram @dressmeforlesslux.

*This is a paid sponsored post with Dress Me For Less Lux. All opinions are true and that of Briana D’Andrea from momgirlblog. Follow Briana D’Andrea & dressformelessluxe to see some of the bags up for grabs & start your obsession today! 

Photos captured by Elina’s Dream Photography. 

-Briana D. 

Briana D.Leave a comment

Kennedy space center blast off!

Visiting Kennedy Space Center exceeded our expectations!

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has always been on our family’s travel bucket list since the day our 8-year-old son was born! Although he and my husband are both Star Wars fanatics, most recently our little guy has had an affinity for space and the world beyond. After seeing some rocket launches and doing a virtual visit with an astronaut this past year, we knew we had to jump on the opportunity to get to Cape Canaveral. We had quite the incredible experience at America’s spaceport from start to finish and the best part was, it’s fun for ALL ages! With our 5-year-old daughter in tow and a celebration for my mom’s birthday, we chartered a journey to the Space Coast!

We started off the day by taking the obligatory photo in front of the NASA meatball and it was the most gorgeous day! Something really awesome is the visitor complex is on an island, so the cross breeze is absolutely glorious! We made our way to the very back of the park to get things started off on the right foot…our journey to “Atlantis.” This larger than life exhibit was at the top of our must-see things to explore while at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, so we wanted to make sure we started off with a bang! After watching a quick and inspirational movie, we did a self-guided walking tour of the ship, complete with interactive exhibits to keep the kids fully engaged and learned all about NASA’s Space Shuttle program. From sitting in a cockpit to an interactive space simulation activity and even a slide that boosts you to another dimension, we were able to play astronaut for the day and see what it was like to eat, sleep and live in outer space.

We then made our way over to Planet Play. This new interactive play space is a glow in the dark, 3 story behemoth of a playground, where the kids can let loose and just be kids! Next stop was lunch! From a variety of salads and sandwiches to choose from and not just your typical pizza and chicken tenders lunch, it was great! We had a Cobb salad and a Beyond burger from the Orbit Cafe. We were lucky enough to dine in the courtyard otherwise known as “NASA Central,” where we snapped a quick photo op with a spaceperson! We ducked into where we learned all about space moving rovers and how they travel around Mars!

Next stop was “The Space Shop.” Whether signed memorabilia or space food is your thing, there’s something for everyone in this two story shop, which might I say, was very well done! After grabbing a few mementos to remember what was already such an incredible day, we grabbed some “Space Dots,” ice cream and boarded a bus for our next mission on the other side of the compound. *Best bet is to book your bus tour upon arrival, so you get to pick the best time for you and your family to explore.

The “Space Bus,” dropped us off behind NASA’s pearly gates, where some of the most famous spaceships in our nation’s history have prepared for launch! We drove past the Vehicle Assembly Building, one of the largest buildings in the world by volume, where rockets like the Saturn V moon rocket was assembled and arrived at the Apollo/Saturn V Center. We were able to see the Saturn V…the largest rocket ever flown! *Fun fact: Every human who has stepped foot on the moon, launched from Kennedy Space Center aboard a Saturn V rocket! It was completely breathtaking and larger than life and we are already planning an overnight trip to stay there at the facilities! Yes, you can do that! After learning about man’s first trip to the moon and honoring the three heroes, whose lives were lost in Apollo 1, we prepared for lift off, back to base camp just in time to catch a 3D IMAX movie about asteroids, which totally blew our minds!

On our way out we explored the “Rocket Garden,” home to incredible and famous rockets from NASA programs like the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo…a place where you literally feel like an ant in a sea of giant space vehicles.

We had such an incredible day and can’t wait to visit again soon! Highly recommend paying a trip to the Space Coast! For more information or to book a trip to visit Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

*This is a paid sponsored post with Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. All opinions are true and that of Briana D’Andrea from momgirlblog. Follow Briana D’Andrea to see more photos from our trip and follow her family adventures on her lifestyle blog momgirlblog.com. #kennedyspacecenter #momgirlblog #lookup

Check out our fun day in under an IG reel under a minute here!

-Briana D.

Briana D.Leave a comment

Our Family Trip on The Cape and “Around the Sound”

If you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation full of summer vibes then look no further. 

Hy-Line Cruises is your ticket to an adventure at sea! Follow along with Briana D’Andrea as she takes you aboard their day cruise!

I can almost hear the words in my ear. Billy Joel singing “Noreaster Alexa.” You know the part where he says he had chartered a course to the Vineyard, but tonight he is Nantucket bound? I can now really connect with that verse, after taking a visit to the Cape this summer with my family for the forth of July. It’s been a tradition of ours to explore a new destination and there’s  something really special about that part of world. Perhaps it’s the easy breeze that hits your face coming off the coast, the back and forth rocking of sailboats on the docks or the sound of the seagulls chirping by, but one things for sure…no visit is complete without a trip to the cape’s neighboring islands…Nantucket, otherwise known as “The Grey Lady,” or The Vineyard you know…Martha’s? 

I knew when I was doing my research and planing our vacation, a trip to the Cape’s sister islands was a MUST, but I just wasn’t sure how I would swing it, with the limited amount of time we had and two kids with such short attention spans, it didn’t seem like the stars would align. Between our trip to Portland and Acadia and a visit with the majestic whales (also a must and probably a separate blog post), I knew our trip had to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time.  That’s where Hy-Line Cruises came in to play. Their staff, especially Ruth were so incredibly helpful with customizing a perfect trip for our little family. With a fleet of ships and an array of excursions to choose from, you can’t go wrong with the adventures they offer. We settled on a trip “Around the Sound,” and what an adventure it was! 

We departed Hyannis Port at 8:30a, quite literally ‘Nantucket bound,’ aboard the aptly named Grey Lady! The ship has sight seeing decks, a snack bar, bathrooms and plenty of room to stretch your legs both inside and outside on their rooftop decks. We made sure to arrive 45 minutes before departure and just before we loaded up, we grabbed a quick bite at their amazing on site restaurant, “The Landing Cafe.” Whether you’re a breakfast person or lunch is more your thing, there’s something for everyone! The kids split a bagel with cream cheese and a fresh fruit smoothie and the hubby and I had a quiche and an egg, cheese and bacon English muffin. Everything was fresh and the staff were super helpful and sweet. Highly recommend their grab and go section of salads and wraps too, in case you wanted to do a picnic on one of the islands. Next time I’m snagging a freshly baked popover! Yum!

ALL ABOARD! We were off! While the kids played patty cake (we had a nice chat about this trip being a little bit of work time for mommy, so they were on their best behavior! Lol) Michael and I honed in on exactly what we wanted to accomplish while on the islands. It took about an hour or so to get to our first destination and thanks to to all the health protocols put in place, it was a stress-free and relaxing little trip. 

Once docked, it was like we were transported to another dimension. Don’t get me wrong the Cape is great, but Nantucket? It has just a je ne sais quoi. Think hydrangea blooms, cobblestoned streets, gray shingled little cottages dating back to the 19th century, yachts along the dock, a beach for the kids to play (aptly named “Children’s Beach”) and the list goes on. The town was founded in 1641 and while most of the island is accessible by bike or foot, you can ship your car over for a small fortune. From little boutiques to cafes and hidden vias, this island is much like Palm Beach (my favorite local place), only with a much richer history. The fact that Beautycounter and Lilly Pulitzer have some real estate on the island didn’t hurt either and the people who come to summer there year after year, are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet. 

After hitting up a couple of shops (The Nantucket Surf Club is super cute and worth checking out), a quick bite at The Nantucket Tavern and a dip of the toes in the sound at Children’s Beach, we were back on board for our next leg of the trip. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure, so they can scan your tickets and get a seat in the best possible spot. Should you need any assistance, Hy-Line has an adorable little office right on the port. 

On our way to the vineyard we had an incredible view of the famous Brant Point Lighthouse on the top deck of the ship and I happened to spot a pirate ship setting sail across the sound, which was pretty neat and made for a perfect photo op! 

After some incredible seaside views and quick cat nap, we disembarked on to Martha’s Vineyard. The vibe there was a tad different than Nantucket, more of a laid back flip-flops and beer kind of energy versus the oysters and champagne. (Both great in my opinion). 

We made our way over to a local ice cream shop where the hubby and I shared a coffee and Oreo ice cream and an iced coffee and the kids landed on rainbow sherbert and mint chocolate chip. We meandered our way over to the historic Gingerbread District, a real sight to see! Painted in shades of sky blue and peach cobbler, these whimsical homes stem back more than 150 years to 1826. Each one more darling than the next, in an array of colors with their own themes and names. Almost like a real life Disney World. We saw one for sale and just might make an offer! Lol  

Once we snapped out of it, we skipped back down to the beach (where jaws was filmed), passing the world’s oldest carousel and let the kids take a quick dip to cool off. (We told them the Jaws tidbit after the fact! lol) They guzzled down some fresh fried cod, before boarding the ship back to our home base on the Cape at the Anchor In. 

As I write this, it was such a dream come true to be able to make those memories with my family, an experience most definitely worth while and one I would highly recommend thanks to Hy-Line Cruises. Hy-Line makes it easy to travel with your family to create memories that will last a lifetime. We will definitely be back someday. 

*This is a sponsored post with Hy-Line Cruises. All opinions are true and that of Briana D’Andrea from momgirlblog.com. The “Around the Sound” trip was sponsored and paid for by Hy-Line Cruises. For more information or to book a trip today visit hylinecruises.com. Follow Briana D’Andrea for more adventures with her family on her lifestyle blog momgirlblog.com.  #thisishyline #momgirlblog

-Briana D’Andrea 

Briana D.Leave a comment