Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Registering (and why you should!) for Disney's Princess Half Marathon

 
 
 
 
You mean you've never run in Minnie Mouse ears? Believe me you need to try it. In fact the best place for this fashion statement is at the Walt Disney World resort. Oh and don't worry all that comes between you and a beautiful finisher's medal like these is 13.1 magical miles. You may think that you haven't been running that long or maybe you have never even run one mile but let me tell you that YOU can do this. Believe me. If I can do it you can too!

I first signed up for the Princess Half Marathon way back in September of 2011, see that was during the time when runDisney races didn't sell out in an hour and you could register well after registration had opened. That time has passed but my love for this race has not. I had only run a few 5k's but when I heard you could run through the Disney parks, I was sold! With some training, I was ecstatic to complete my first ever runDisney race and my second half-marathon ever.

This race is my ALL time favorite! The theme, the course, and the bling are the best in my opinion I'm super girly but guys love this race too! Odds in their favor I guess :) There's just something magical about running down main street and seeing the castle in the early morning hour plus the crowd support is amazing! Here are a few tips to get you ready and convince you to do this race!

Tip 1: REGISTER EARLY!

This is key obviously if you aren't registered then you can't run. Registration officially opens on JULY 14, 2015 at noon eastern time. Now listen up if you are a DISNEY ANNUAL PASSHOLDER you can REGISTER TODAY 6/30/15 at NOON ET. Go to your My Disney account and register for the race (or races) here . If you are a passholder take advantage of this opportunity! For those of you who are registering on the 14th, already have your credit card ready, go to the runDisney site around 11:58-59am and start trying to register, sometimes it opens a little before noon. Yes you can do this in your smart phone! I have done it many times and it works just as well as doing it on an actual computer. This is good to know if you have class, work, a meeting, etc.. just whip out your phone and get registered! Have speedy fingers, race popularity changes from year to year but this race seems to steadily stay in the more popular category and will most likely sell out quickly.

Tip 2: Know What Race You Are Registering For

You got into the system! Yay! But now you don't know what race you want. Decide early what race or races you plan on doing. The choices are the Disney Princess 5k (3.1 miles), Enchanted 10k (6.2 miles), Princess Half (13.1 miles) and the Glass Slipper Challenge (10k Sat and Half Sun for a combined total of 19.3 miles for the weekend). I have done the Glass Slipper for the past two years since the beginning of its existence in 2014. If I travel for a race I like to get my maximum running time in and also the extra bling doesn't hurt (three medals!). If you want to do the Glass Slipper Challenge and obtain the third medal YOU MUST SIGN UP FOR THE CHALLENGE. Signing up for the 10k and half separately will NOT get you the Glass Slipper medal.

Tip 3: Choosing a Proper Training Plan

You registered! Now the fun begins...j/k training is boring but you need to do it. I suggest following one of Jeff Galloway's training plans, I have been running for a few years now and I still follow these. If you don't think you can dedicate training for a half marathon stick with the 5k or 10k (ANY race is an amazing feat and accomplishment!) or do both and have your own challenge! Definitely do not sign up for the Half or Glass Slipper Challenge and not train. First off, it's expensive (you want to finish and get your medals, right?) and second, you don't want to hurt yourself. Running is amazing and this race is a blast but it's also hard work. Train properly and you will be ready for the finish line. We don't want any princesses (or princes) getting escorted off the course due to pain!

Tip 4: Picking a Costume 

Obviously the most important part of the whole race weekend, choosing which classic character you want to run as! You may feel silly but at runDisney races you almost stick out if you aren't dressed up. Start looking up ideas on Pinterest, your favorite movies or any other inspirations you may have! I will be doing some more costume tutorials as races get closer so don't worry I'll have you covered. Be sure to check out my favorite running store and brand, Sparkle Athletic for all your race costume needs!

Tip 5: Have FUN!

I think this race is a great motivator if you want a goal race or something that you want to mark off your bucket list. I'm not lying when I say if I can do this so can you. Stick to a training plan, grab a few friends to join you and register for this race! Make it a mini-trip with your family, the ultimate girls weekend or maybe you just need a solo weekend without your significant other, kids, life, etc. to reach your goal (and maybe a spa day!). I can't say enough positives about this race but if you still aren't sure check out this princess preview to let you see for yourself what you'll be in for if you sign up. I can't wait to see all of you out on the course! While you wait to register or just too excited for February 19-21st 2016 watch this rap battle featuring "Cinderella" and  "Belle". Personally, I think Cindy wins it.

**If you would like to run for charity look here under "runDisney Charity Group Programs" for more information. This is a great way to give back and also an excellent alternative if races appear to be sold out**

Get all race details including pricing, dates, other races, etc. at the Official runDisney Website.

Are YOU registering today? In July? Let me know if you have any questions regarding runDisney, running, or anything you need to know and I'll try my best to answer for you!

Happy Running!

XOXO,

Kate Spade Blogger Event and Picks

I attended my second blogger event and it was held at Kate Spade. And it was amazing. Here's a recap and my picks for your Kate Spade collection! First off, there were delicious black and white cookies. If there are cookies involved you know the event will automatically be a success. There was also a festive strawberry lemonade that added a colorful touch to the spread. Blogger events always have the most photographic set-ups and photo ops plus some really fun snacks. Reason enough to attend!

Also, starting today Kate Spade is having a HUGE sale. Visit your local store or look here to see all the amazing deals! (FYI: use the code SETSALE for an additional 25% off all sale items).

Happy Shopping (and blogging!)

XOXO,

 
 


When you hear Kate Spade you usually think of their iconic purses, clothes and bags. But they also have a wide array of home decorations. Since becoming a home owner last year, I love finding new decor for my home and Kate Spade has some very unique options. I love this plate made especially for your glasses and keys! Also they have really fun candles which aren't too bad price wise which can be a good present if you have a trendy designer friend but don't want to break the bank. The stationary is also adorable and a way to brighten your office space.




The clothing is also as bright and colorful as their famous bags. Love this flowery, summer print dress! 



Ok, this is one item I had to take home with me. I love sharks and had been eyeing this bag for a while now. I was so happy to learn it was on sale (40% off plus an additional 20% for bloggers) so I snatched it up! Seriously, how fun is this bag? It totally reminds me of Jaws which is why it will be one of my 4th of July picks (on the blog Sunday!). 



If you follow my blog you know I'm obsessed with this clutch! It's so unique and playful that it's one of my must-haves of the summer and a way to add some whimsy to any outfit. 



Here's a few more shots of some of my favorite things I saw in store!



































 

Monday, June 29, 2015

All American Girl





 




 
 

 
 
Happy Monday everyone! I'm kind of loving this week since technically it already feels like Tuesday. Hope you all are getting a nice three day weekend coming up! So, I have done several posts about July 4th outfits and if you still don't have yours or maybe you want a variety of looks (like me!) then may I suggest this comfy yet super stylish graphic tank? Seriously, does it not want to make you  break out into Bruce Springsteen? I'm also digging this short-sleeved raglan tee and how amazing is this tank from Wildfox Couture? If you are headed to the beach or lake then what about this patriotic one piece swimsuit, still trendy but don't have to worry as much as when you have on a bikini. I feel like denim cut-offs are a summer staple which is why I was so excited to grab this light washed pair at my local Free People store (during a sale!) and then with any outfit make your accessories (I spy my Tori Burch Fitbit bracelet) count! Shop the entire look below and feel free to sing along to a little Born in the USA to prep for the weekend!
 
Happy Shopping!
 
XOXO,
 

Lucca Lane Born in the USA Tank//here also check our this festive tank  Free People Buttonfront Cutoffs//here  Free People American Flag Scarf//here  White Converse//here  Kate Spade Blue Holden Street Finn//here (on Sale! $199 originally $398. Get extra 25% off with code SETSALE)

 

Sparkler Ready

I love everything about the 4th of July. The BBQ party with the family, watching my favorite summer movies like Independence Day and Jaws, and of course fireworks! Which is why I absolutely adore this Lilly Pulitzer July 4th inspired print dress. Ok, this dress is from an older collection (summer 2013) but Lilly usually has a new patriotic summer print each season (which I've linked 2015's below!) but if you really want this print feel free to check out eBay or other sources they may have older Lilly dresses. You can also scope out cute Etsy shops like this one which have some really spot-on Lilly inspired creations at great prices! I'm going to try and give several options this week on the blog for the upcoming holiday weekend so keep checking back each day!

Don't you feel like singing that Katy Perry song "Firework" now? You're welcome.

XOXO,




Lilly Pulitzer Firework Dress//Here (2015 edition) also comes in a skirt  Kate Spade Shark Tote//here (on SALE!) also comes in a clutch  Silver DV by Dolce Vita Flatforms//here (on SALE!) if sold out check here  American Flag Heart Sunglasses//similar (SALE $1) if sold out check here  Bourbon and Bows Red Stone Bracelet//here  Sapphire Pendant//similar
 






 


Sunday, June 28, 2015

You're a Firework! July 4th Fashions

 
I love July 4th. It's seriously one of my favorite holidays and I can't believe it's this weekend! Here are my picks for the most patriotic of days. I, myself will be wearing this dress and if you really want some American flag denim shorts check out this pair from Target which are under $15 and currently on sale. If you are going for a little more dressy look this nautical inspired cut out dress or the beautiful seeing stars maxi are excellent options! If you are looking for a festive pair of sandals take a peek at this red criss cross pair (under $25!) . I'm also a fan of a simple white dress such as this one (only $17) that you can add a pop of red and blue with accessories. Check out the rest of the list below and I've provided plenty of sale selections as well :)

Happy Sunday and happy shopping!

XOXO,




Wildfox Couture Party Pup Tee
Wildfox Couture US Flag Print Romper (almost sold out!)
 
Tattered Flag Scarf
American Flag Scarf (Free People)
belle place straw small maise by kate spade new york
Kate Spade Belle Place Small Straw Bag (SALE!)
'splash out' clutch
Kate Spade Clutch (SALE!)
MICHAEL Michael Kors 'Posey' Espadrille Wedge Sandal (Women)
Michael Kors Posey Espadrille Wedge (SALE!)

 
Lush Knit Maxi Dress
Lush Knit Maxi Dress (Sale! Under $40)
Women's Black Ribbon Floppy Hat - Tan
Straw Floppy Hat (Under $15! Looks like J.Crew without the $45 price tag)
Women's Bob Dylan™ Tanks
Old Navy Bob Dylan Tank (only $11!)


Lilly Pulitzer Monterey Tank Dress




Bandit Denim Cutoffs
Free People Denim Cut-Offs



ASOS Heart Sunglasses With Flash Lens
Heart Sunglasses (under $22)





Off The Shoulder Lace Boho Dress - Bella Lace Dress
Off the Shoulder Lace Dress (only $40)



 

Friday, June 26, 2015

Feeling Flamingo

Happy Friyay! I have never been happier for it to be the weekend and I'm already looking forward to a short week (yay 4th of July!). Can't wait to kick off Friday by rocking this adorable flamingo dress and yes, it's as comfortable as it looks. This dress was basically made for summer days and just as easy go to night. It seems the flamingo trend is hot right now and this dress is going fast! If they don't have your size or this particular dress is sold out, this jumpsuit and this beautiful Lilly dress will give you the same flamingo feel. Keeping with the pink theme, I added my favorite tassel bracelets plus my Kendra Scott rose and magenta Andy bracelets. Of course I added a sun hat because I was basically begging for the sun to come out (had to do a mini photo shoot by the pool since it was about to pour). Lots of good prices on hats including this woven floppy hat which happens to be under $15. Shop the rest of the look below!

Happy Shopping!

XOXO,




 

Flamingo Dress//Pixie Market  Tassel Bracelets// Accessory Concierge  Rose and Magenta Bracelets//Kendra Scott  Sapphire Necklace//similar  Floppy Sun Hat//similar  Criss Cross Wedges//Target