Sidewalk Film Festival 2016

 

This past weekend was one for the books! I actually think I need a weekend to recover from this one. Not only did I get to see Drake in ATL on Friday night (amazing!) but Atlanta was only a short visit and it was back to Bham since Saturday and Sunday were booked up for the 18th annual Sidewalk Film Festival! As you may know I love movies and this is the perfect way to see indies, local and even some I probably would never check out if they weren't at the festival!

Tickets

 

This was my second year at Sidewalk and like last year I opted for the VIP Pass, it can get pricy as the festival gets closer so I recommend purchasing yours earlier rather than later. They also have weekend passes as well as single day passes you can purchase as well. I like VIP because it guarantees you get into each film, front of the line access, free snacks, VIP lounge and is an overall good deal.  For the least expensive price on any tickets be sure to buy early!

 

Getting Around

 

Everything is pretty much within walking distance of each other, there are several venues to watch each film so check your program and see which spots you will be in. I always like to park in the lot across from the Alabama Theater, it cost $10 but it is very convenient plus safe! There are signs along the way to direct you and if you don't feel like walking to the venues there are trams and bicycles for you free of charge. We felt safe the entire weekend and there was a good amount of security but as with any bigger city or any event for that matter be aware of your surroundings, pay attention and be smart.

 

VIP Lounge

One cool thing that is included with the VIP pass is the lounge. This year's was really well done! Light snacks since it was super hot outside, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and you got to be in the air condition for a bit if you needed a break from the walking!

Oh and they even had massages! The lovely ladies from the Aveda Institutes South were giving free neck, back and hand massages. Let me tell you the neck massage was a God-send after craning my neck for a few hours at films (I know such a hard life #firstworldproblems) but I have such a bad neck and back from my former cheerleading days that it was heavenly! You also got a card for a free massage at their spa for the future which will definitely be put to use.

 

Films, Food and More

 

When you get your event guide be sure to look it over and start selecting which films are your "must-see" now when you are in a group things can get a bit more complicated. Odds are that not everyone is going to like the same things so I think it's best to compromise and have each person pick at least one film that is their "must". Or you can always split up and meet up before another film, it's up to you! And if all of your group wants to see the same films then snaps to you because you've made you life easy (yay).

 

Film festivals like Sidewalk are the perfect way to see some great documentaries (Chicken People, it's legit a thing), beautiful cinematography (The Love Witch), brilliant style pieces (Cheerleader, maybe my favorite film of the fest), and fantastic indies (the terrific Morris Comes to America). I also love the short films! Especially the horror shorts, it's great seeing lots of film styles in a short time and you get more than one story so you feel like you are experiencing more.

 

If you get hungry there are tons of food trucks (shout out to Big Spoon Creamery and Mimi's Soda) as well as your standard movie theater snacks in each venue! I would recommend brining cash since a lot of the theaters are older so it's easier to pay cash plus with food trucks, theaters, etc. you never know if the system might go down so keep cash handy!

What to Wear

 

You will be sitting down. A lot. You will be walking in the heat a lot of the time in between films so dress comfortably! This is not the time for that form fitting bodycon dress (save that for next weekend) but breezy sundresses, sandals, tees and tennis are my go to! Guys if you are reading just stick with shorts, jeans and tees. Everyone just needs to be comfortable so they can enjoy the movies! And so you can eat your popcorn and milk duds with no remorse or shame.

 

Final Thoughts

Birmingham has come such a long way in the past couple of years and events like Sidewalk are drawing in more people than ever. The event is well priced, unique, and fun for those that live here and those that are traveling just for the festival. Trust me you won't be disappointed! Very well organized, safe, and it offers a bit of a break on an otherwise monotonous August weekend. I highly recommend Sidewalk!

For more information on next year's event click here! Start making your preparations now!

Are there any film festivals in your area? Which ones do I need to visit? Let me know!

Happy Film Watching!

xoxo,

Sloss Fest 2015 Event Review

Hey guys! Hope everyone is recovering nicely from the weekend. Is it me or does July seem to fly by? I can't believe we only have ten days left this month! I'm trying to make the last part of summer count and take advantage of all the exciting things going on in Birmingham. I was so excited to attend the first-ever Sloss Fest this past Saturday. The event held at historic Sloss Furnaces, was a two-day music and art festival and let me just say it was AMAZING!
 

I was supposed to be out of town this weekend but when that got nixed at the 11th hour, I was sad about not going to Florida but a little relieved. I had already gone out of town last weekend and have several upcoming trips that I would rather save my money for. But what to do? A friend quickly reminded me that our own Birmingham, AL would be hosting a brand new music festival. I love music festivals and travel to them quite frequently so how could I pass up the chance to attend one right in my own backyard? I put on my flower halo (my trusty Festy Besty) and the comfiest dress I could find to head over to Sloss Furnaces.

What is Sloss Furnaces? Well, if you want to know the history, don't worry I took the above pic just for you. If you want more of a one sentence answer, it's an old, former furnace in the middle of downtown Birmingham, AL. Think it sounds a little creepy...it is. So much so that legend says the furnace is haunted and it has one of the best Halloween themed attractions in the South by the name of Sloss Fright Furnace. But last time I checked it's July not October so back to the festival. I was pumped about a festival being right here in my hometown and was pretty amazed at the lineup.

 

We arrived a little after 6pm, it was really humid that day due to previous thunderstorms a few hours before but the atmosphere was super energetic. Also, this was the BEST dress ever for a music festival. It was comfortable and I loved the tie-dye in soft pink hues. I will definitely post about the entire outfit and other fashion/beauty tips for any music festival. It was crowded but not unbearable by any means, I think the event team did an excellent job of crowd control and having the three stages set in different locations made things easy to find and watch. I mean just look how relaxed the crowd looks.

After a bit, we got thirsty and needed to rehydrate so the first thing I saw was a juice bar amongst the line of food trucks. Local business Sprout and Pour were offering up some delicious juice options and I just had to try the Watermelon Lemonade. Let me just say it was heaven on a hot summer night. It was delicious! I will definitely be picking up some juices in the future and hope to see them at other events. I took a pic (blogger rules obviously) and then later realized that I had the wrong side facing (blogger fail) so of course I took another one. It was in the dark but hey I got the name in there this time!

 

Sprout and Pour Take 1

Sprout and Pour Take 2...seriously try this stuff!

It was fun walking around the old furnace with music in the background and beautiful once the sun began to set. It's funny how something like an old building can look so serene and lovely at night.

There was also plenty of lighting. If someone were to trip and fall, believe me I would be the victim. But not to worry there were lights all around and every spot of the event area was covered. It was really cool to see how they changed this place up to fit a music festival. Although I shouldn't be too surprised since this venue actually holds lots of weddings. This was the perfect ambiance for the night.
 

As I said earlier there were three stages aptly titled Blast, Steam and Shed (all furnace things ha-ha get it?). Blast and Steam seemed to be the bigger stages and Shed was literally in a Shed, it could have been bigger but that area was packed at the time we checked it out.
 

Blast Stage

Loving the neon pink décor

This can kind of provide you with a better glimpse of Shed, it had these pretty fountains in front and surrounded by a lot of really cool art vendors. I picked up two posters that I can not wait to add to my home! If you live in Bham, I would suggest looking at Yellowhammer Creative, they have some really cool vintage style posters and pictures along with specialty tanks and tees that remind you of landmarks and such from the city.

The Shed lit up

They also had iron pouring stations which went along with the theming of the location. That's right we had IRON POURING at a music festival. Getting pretty hardcore here.
 

Iron Pouring Action Shot

The night was perfect for a music festival, just look how clear the skies were. I think what makes music performances sometimes is the crowd. The crowd stayed hyped and energetic throughout all the performances and no one seemed to be getting out of hand (that I saw) just a really chill group.
 

I also liked how all three of the stages were close enough that you could make your acts on time but also enough space that if you needed a little break for food and rest, you could easily move away from the crowd.
 

Steam Stage

Birmingham has also welcomed lots of new local breweries the past few years and have an extensive lineup of homegrown brews. It was only fitting that they have their own "beer garden" showing off local favorites. I would highly suggest visiting several of the Ham's breweries exclusive to the state (my picks are Avondale and Good People). This was a fun touch to make the event even more "localized" and show attendees from out of state something new to try.

Craft Brew Garden

 After a few hours, my feet were hurting (one of my frequent festival going besties texted me and said if your feet aren't hurting then it wasn't a good festival) and I was pretty tired from the day so we decided to call it a night. I would have to say out of the bands we saw (Young the Giant, Cathedrals, Cage the Elephant and Modest Mouse were so good live) my favorite had to be Band of Horses, they were amazing! I loved Sunday's Lineup but I have to get up super early Monday morning and I'm trying to save money for other trips and concerts so I sadly had to opt out of day 2.

Yes, tickets were a little on the high side ($85) but it's a music festival with legit artists so what do you expect? If you live in Birmingham, I encourage you to experience all the exciting things this city has to offer! There is seriously something going on all the time. And if you are thinking of coming from out of state for this festival, I can not say enough good things about the event. It was run smoothly and efficiently and for a first year fest, I thought the team who put it together really hit it out of the park. Next year I hope they have the event starting on Friday instead of Saturday so I can attend both days, other than that I see this event growing and can't wait to see what's in store!

Happy Festival Season!

XOXO,


 

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks

Happy Friday!

Ok guys today is it...the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here! I got up an hour earlier than usual (so 3am) to pick out the best of the best. I'll go ahead and say everything at Nordstrom is amazing. The sale is no exception. I love that you are able to get fall pieces YES FALL PIECES on sale. Lots of classics on sale as well as some new trends that should be hot for fall and winter. Things are going fast so my advice is to set a spending limit (you don't want to go broke!) and go after your must-have's first. Then wait a few days to look over other pieces you aren't sure on and/or items you missed the first go around. Lots of great options on sale so be sure to do your research. Lucky for you I am here to help :)

The sale is happening NOW so be sure to check out this huge sale while it lasts (prices go back up Monday, Aug 3rd)

Here are my picks!



 

Zella Live In Leggings

Ok, who doesn't love a pair of black leggings? Great for running errands or pairing with a cute, long tank and leather jacket for a night out. Also come in Navy and Grey.

Sam Edelman Paige Fringed Ankle Booties

I am obsessed with fringe and these booties make for the perfect fall transition piece. Also come in Black, Brown and Dark Grey.

Lush Perfect Roll Tab Sleeve Tunic

Great to wear now with shorts and even better come fall with jeans or for some of you on the shorter end an adorable dress! Also comes in Black, Blue, Ivory and Sphinx (a really pretty pinkish/purple color).
 

Topshop Stripe Sweater Dress

Fun, easy dress that can easily work in all seasons. Pair with light grey booties for a contemporary look or stick with converse for a sporty, easy going vibe.
 

Kendra Scott Rayne Stone Tassel Necklace

An everyday staple. These are going superfast so snatch one up at this amazing deal while you can!
 

Tall Boots

Ok, this particular pair just sold out BUT there are several really good options still available. Click "tall boots" to take you directly to the shoe sale section.
 

Calvin Klein Oversize Collar Boyfriend Jacket

Love this jacket. I like how its durable yet fashionable in the most feminine shade.
 

Kate Spade New York Cedar Street Crossbody

Another great everyday staple. Also comes in a variety of colors at an excellent price. Love the navy for fall.
 

Leith Crepe Trapeze Dress

Love the comfort and style this dress provides. Definitely picked up one of these up in black for an everyday basic. But how great is this burgundy color to head into cooler temps?

Floppy Felt Hat

Y'all know I love hats. I also love good prices. This is a win/win and a must for fall. Also comes in black and burgundy.
 

Luxe Animal Scarf

When you want to add that little rawr (sorry had to type it) to your ensemble. Great with all black and a must for traveling. Adds that extra pop of animal print in the most fashionable way.
 

Quilted Faux Leather Jacket

Right now this jacket is only $63. Yes the mother of all jacket staples, a leather jacket is $63. Love pairing these with feminine dresses and graphic tees come fall. Also comes in a beautiful burgundy.
 

 

Blame it on NARS Cheek Palette

Ever since I was in 8th grade I have been fascinated with NARS make-up. Maybe it was the sensual, risqué names or maybe its the bright colors. Or it might be the fact they are an excellent brand. I have been wearing their cheek colors for years and this palette packs a punch of some of my faves.
 

Dreamweave Babydoll Dress

Another easy summer dress that can easily transition into fall with a light jacket. Love the paring with booties as shown above. Also comes in a cute corral color.


 

Passport to Wanderlust Event Recap

Hello everyone! While I am coming back from a lovely weekend (well, Saturday and half of Sunday) spent at Seaside, FL. It's always nice to get away even if it is just for the weekend. I'll have a whole blog post on my Seaside adventures (and lots of fashion picks/ootd's!). But,right now I want to recap a super fun Birmingham event that took place this past Thursday, the launch of the new magazine Good Grit. I attended the unveiling of the southern magazine via the event "Passport to Wanderlust" which was travel themed with a southern twist. Let's start the adventure!
 

Ok, one of my favorite sites in Bham are the rainbow filled tunnels (this particular tunnel is located on 20th Street North) and served as the perfect backdrop for the block party vibe. If you ever visit Birmingham (AL no,not England!) then definitely check out the brightly lit tunnels for a pic. If you live here and for some reason you haven't been...just go, like now. It's basically a Birmingham tradition!  I highly recommend going after a Birmingham Barons (local minor league baseball team) game. Back to the event! Upon arriving, I parked easily on 20th street. I would advise parking closely to the event location and avoid parking decks. It makes it easier and safer to walk back to your car at night. Obviously the first thing I noticed was the delicious spread that was set up.
 

The tickets were $25 a person and that got you into the event, two drink tokens, and access to the snacks. You could have easily made a meal from all the food available! I took pics of what I sampled, there was also gourmet pizza, tex-mex and a few other yummy offerings. My absolute favorite was the feta cheese from local The Pantry by Stone Hollow Farmstead. It was delicious!

I'm pretty picky (my downfall is sweets) give me a grilled cheese or chicken fingers any day but I do enjoy trying new things. I like easy snacks at events so you can talk and mingle plus it was H.O.T hot that night so I wasn't in the mood for anything heavy. Pimento cheese is always one of my top choices and who doesn't love those little butterfly crackers?

Ok, this one was a little sad. I totally thought these adorable macaroons we're going to be one of my favorite due to my chronic sweet tooth. It's blue and pink therefore it has to be blueberry and raspberry? Cotton candy? The possibilities! I took a bite and it wasn't sweet. Nnnnnooooo! Instead it tasted almost like blue cheese and cream cheese. Maybe fish? It was like a meal macaroon.  It's not that it was bad it just wasn't what I was expecting. If I see macaroons I think sweets by the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Or at least the France pavilion at Epcot Center. Your choice.

The theme as stated before, was travel and wanderlust. Our ticket doubled as a "passport" which if you completed five tasks and got the correct amount of stamps then you got a free "swag bag". You also had to be one of the first 250 people to complete the task. Free stuff? 250 people? Game on. When there is a free t-shirt on the line, you walk with a purpose. The tasks were easy, it was things like getting your picture taken and the photo booth. My friend and I finished the passport challenge quickly (maybe even the first ones done?) like I said a free shirt was involved! 

"Swag Bag" after completing passport challenge

 

Rompers and passports go good together

 

The event was very well put together and made for a fun night out. It was extremely  hot but I mean it is summer in the south so that's to be expected. I love finding new things to do in Birmingham and there are always events happening. Be sure to check here to see what all is happening in the city! I'll be singling out more events, concerts, etc. coming up in future blog posts. And be sure to check out local events in your city/hometown, you don't want to miss out on new adventures, right? You never know what's right outside your own back yard (or yellow door!).

Happy Monday!

XOXO,



(outfit details below!)
 

P.S. Seriously obsessed with this comfy, grey t-shirt dress (it's like wearing PJ's but appropriate for public!) from The Happy Goose (almost sold out!) and these adorable mega tassel leather sandals.