Sunday Funday: Atlanta Style

Hey all! So, you guys know I love to travel. I kind of get a little stir-crazy if I'm in my beloved Bham for over a month without traveling anywhere at all. That's why it's a great idea to plan fun little trips here and there. Lucky for me Atlanta, Georgia is a short dive away with so much to do! However, this wasn't just any regular trip we were on. This was a 24 hour adventure to see the one and only Beyoncé on her newly created "Formation Tour". Yes, we were going to be seeing Queen Bey live (insert bee and lemonade emoji's here).  The trip would be super short but still memorable and most of all, fun!

The concert was on a Sunday so we left out around 10am for the 2 1/2 hour drive to the ATL. Since it wasn't a weekday we were lucky and there wasn't a ton of traffic. Well known fact: Atlanta has some bad traffic so keep that in mind when planning a trip. Weekends are always the better option if you have a choice. We arrived in the afternoon ready to explore, keep your eye out for cool art, sculptures, everything while you are in the city!

Since I knew the concert was later that night, I went ahead and booked us a hotel room at the Omni Atlanta, this is a great hotel since it is within walking distance to the Georgia Dome, Phillips Arena, Aquarium, College Football Hall of Fame, World of Coke, restaurants, etc. Basically you are right in the middle of downtown.  We were starving so after an uneventful check-in that was quick and easy, we went to Max's Coal Oven Pizzeria, umm it was delicious. Sangria and pizza? How can you go wrong? Trick question. You can't.

 

After lunch we burned calories by walking over to the Georgia Aquarium . If you have never been, it is a must-do! There are so many exhibits, sea life, creatures, penguins, yes, penguins! Beluga whales, sea otters, and even the all new Sea Lion show and area dedicated to one of the cutest sea species out there! You can scroll through my pics below just to see a little of what they have to offer, it's fun of course for kids but also interesting for every age. I feel like you really get your money's worth here and it's a must-do if you are spending the day in Atlanta!
 

 

Our next stop was the College Football Hall of Fame which was a short walk over from the aquarium and right next to our hotel. A little secret, if you go within an hour of closing (5pm or 6pm depending on the time of year, check the day of to make sure!) you get the special "twilight discount" which you may have to rush a bit through the hall of fame but it is definitely do-able! You are given a pass after you pay and enter where you then register on the data base and you choose your favorite team. This way the pass electronically notes which stops highlight your team and you can even run the pass across info kiosks along the way to learn history, facts and trivia. It's really cool and a definite must if you are a college football fan!
 

We went back to the room to freshen up and a quick nap, I recommend a hotel room even if you don't plan on staying the whole night. I booked a good rate via Expedia and it was so worth it. Not only did we not have to pay a cab/uber fee to get to the concert venue, we didn't have to wait in bumper to bumper traffic, high parking deck fees (that take forever to get out of after the concert) and we got to chill out in our room after the concert until the surrounding area cleared instead of just sitting in traffic. Plus, we had this guy in the lobby. The hotel was selling Lemonade!
 

This was my second concert at the Georgia Dome, the first being last October at Taylor Swift's 1989 tour. The venue is awesome but it is big! It's very easy to get confused and there are several entrances, I advise taking pics so you can remember key areas or landmarks to help you find your way out. If you are driving this is a must so you can find your car or meeting at a specific location.

One thing that was really helpful about this tour is they sold official merchandise outside before you even entered the venue (look for the Formation tour merchandise busses!). Let's face it, everyone wants a t-shirt and the lines are often wrapped around so this really helped alleviate some of the crowding. They also had several booths inside but it is not uncommon to wait 30-40 or possibly longer to get a shirt. My tip? Get there early and go ahead and get what you want! The longer you wait the more crowded the merchandise area will be and the selection and sizing also dwindles down.
 

Beyoncé's album Lemonade had been out for maybe a week, so everyone was super pumped to see her live! Atlanta was her third stop of the tour and excitement was all around, waiting to see what she would or wouldn't say about Jay-Z, Becky with the good hair, etc. (spoiler alert: she said nothing about either but thanked the crowd numerous times for supporting her and her career throughout the years.).  After the opening act of DJ Khalid with help from his friends Rick Ross, TI, and Ludacris among others, it was time for the show to begin!
 

As soon as Beyoncé lifted her hat on stage to the beats of her hit single "Formation", you see why she is the icon and entertainer that sells out tours and sets music records. I've been a Beyoncé fan since my early middle school days singing Destiny's Child at pool parties to working out to her Dangerously in Love album and seeing her announce her pregnancy live on the MTV Video Music Awards (Love on Top is still one of my favorite songs!). It's always pretty cool to see someone you have kind of grown up with and listened to for so many years live in front of you!
 

The tour was filled with an array of her new album mixed with the classics including Crazy in Love, Survivor, Halo, Girls (Run the World) among countless others you all know the words to. Her costumes were immaculate and made me want to search for the nearest decorated leotard store (although it probably wouldn't have the same appeal), fantastic lighting and effects, one of the best concert experiences I've ever attended! You can get her full set list here and more information about the Formation tour and how you can see Beyoncé live here!

Sadly all good things must come to an end and the concert ended with Beyoncé in all her shimmery glory. It was such a fantastic day and experience! After the concert we hung out in our hotel room while the crowds died down a bit outside. The plan worked! We were able to leave with minimal traffic and headed home safely. A true Sunday Funday! (Sorry had to say it).
 

If you are wondering more about what all the ATL has to offer, check out this site to help you plan your weekend or day trip! There is so much to see and do, I promise you won't be disappointed!

Happy Travels,

 

Monday Must-Haves

Hello all! Slowly but surely we are making it back to Friday. It feels like the weekends just pass faster in warmer months, maybe because the weather wants to make you stay outside, the days feel longer or you are just enjoying drinks in the backyard with unity besties and pups. We'll just say it's all of the above :)

Here's a listing of a few things I'm loving right now! Plus, keep on the lookout for new posts coming this week!

Enjoy my must haves!

xoxo,


 

1. Off the Shoulder and Cold Shoulder Dresses/Tops

This is one of my favorite styles, I remember buying an embroidered Free People dress with the "cold shoulder" a few years ago and fell in love with the stylish and flattering look! It's great for day or night, either style can easily be dressed up or down and there are so many great options out there like this floral one (on sale!), this dreamy cream dress (under $50), and I love this beautiful blush must-have I also need to add this sunny off the shoulder number to my closet and this top (under $40) that will be on repeat this summer!

ASOS Gypsy Off the Shoulder Mini

 

2. Origami Skirts

These trendy skirts are a fun piece to add to your wardrobe when you want something a bit different than your normal trusty black mini skirt or denim cutoffs. Origami skirts have a little more creativity to them and I love the look paired with an off the shoulder top like this one or mix it up with a fun vintage looking tee (under $15) with a denim jacket for a fun, carefree yet pulled together look! This white skirt is only $9 and I love this skort for only $16!

Boohoo Solid Skirt

 

3. Justin Bieber Purpose Album

This is going to be hard to admit but I think I'm officially a "Belieber". My friends and I are even going to his concert in Atlanta tomorrow (insert monkey covering eyes emoji). What brought upon this sudden Beiber fever (do people still say that?) it would have to be his most recent album, 2015's Purpose. With singles like "What Do You Mean", "Where Are You Know", "Love Yourself" and the very popular "Sorry" Biebs proves he's no longer a teen dream but a legitimate artist. Trust me when I say you will enjoy this album!

4. The Jungle Book

Who else is excited to see this live action remake of the famed novel and beloved Disney cartoon classic film? I have both hands up! The Jungle Book is one of my favorite novels and this film looks visually stunning with an all-star cast lined up (how great is Bill Murray as Baloo?) I can't wait to watch this cinematic dream this weekend! To get you ready for the jungle check out the trailer here!

5. Me Before You

I have read some really great books recently, a whole post on that coming soon, but I just started reading this novel by JoJo Moyes. All I can say is I can't put it down, it's one of my favorite books I've read in a while and I can tell it's going to be a tearjerker. The story is beautiful so far about two that have very little in common who are brought together (I know this sounds familiar but I don't want to give away too much), read it before the movie comes out this summer! Lots of book reviews to hit the blog soon as well!

Me Before You
 

New Music Wednesday

Hello all! I hope everyone is enjoying this lovely first day of fall! Taking a little fashion break today to tell you some of my favorite music right now. If you are new to the blog (welcome!) I normally do one of these posts twice a month. It usually contains four new albums and one classic but not limited to just that. It can include anything in the music realm!

Let's get the picks started!

1. Lana Del Ray, Honeymoon

Even since I heard Lana's song Video Games a few years ago, I've been a fan. Yes, I know her performance on SNL the same year was a bit shaky but I loved her sound. Lana almost sounds like she is in the wrong decade and that isn't a bad thing. Here new album Honeymoon has arrived and it is one of my favorite albums for fall. Her title song by the same name is classic Lana which I will say may not be for everyone but I suggest giving it your time. More artists are trying to emulate her sound and style so give a listen to the original!



2. Ryan Adams, 1989

 I have no shame in admitting that Taylor Swift's 2014 album 1989 was my favorite of last year. Ryan Adams has taken it upon himself to pay tribute by recreating the entire album which was released this past Tuesday. Ryan Adams is wonderful and I may dare say does better on some of Ms. Swift's songs than herself. If you really want to compare you can use this guide  but my favorites from Ryan's version are "Wildest Dreams", "Style" and "Welcome to New York".




3. Ed Shareen X Concert

Ok, I've mentioned Ed before and I could probably write a whole blog post on my experience at his concert last weekend but I decided to share it here. In one word the concert was...Incredible. Seeing the talent in person does his songs more justice than listening ever could. The talent this guy has is off the charts. He is essentially a one man band. Check here to see when Ed is coming to your town! Oh and be sure to stay for the encore when you get to hear Ed rap to songs like "In da Club" and is good at it. One of the best arena concerts I've ever attended! Oh and if you really want to see Ed rap take a look!



4.  Fetty Wap Deluxe by Fetty Wap

His debut album is released Friday but Fetty is already a household name. I mean he's part of Taylor Swift's squad.and you have probably heard his hit "Trap Queen" that got him noticed last year. The album is set to be a big seller this fall and highly anticipated.  If his first album is anything like his singles you are in for some great beats and music to get you ready to go out! With several accolades already Fetty is poised to be the next big thing. Look for the album Sept 25th!




5. The Beatles, Yellow Submarine

I can't believe I've been making these posts for a few month now and have yet to include the Beatles. I am a huge fan (like just about everyone) but there is just something about their songs that make you want to listen. The lyrics can be simple but at the same time tell a story. The album "Yellow Submarine" may remind you of The Beatles animated film but I think of the other songs on the album which includes three of my favorites. Eleanor Rigby  has depressing lyrics but with the instrumental beats you can't help but listen. The album also includes Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields Forever which are essential songs from The Beatles. Now go and put on your flared jeans.




That wraps up today's picks! Hope you enjoy and please don't hesitate to share music, movie, books, whatever with me! I love hearing from you guys so shoot me an email or comment below.

Happy Hump Day!

xoxo,

New Music Wednesday

Happy Hump Day! This week is flying by, so I am slowing it down to bring some music to your attention. I do music posts once or twice a month to give you some of my personal picks. The selections can range from new artists to a classic album or even a concert. Sometimes I feel like my I-Pod needs a little extra kick or something fresh and I'm sure lots of you feel the same way. Here are today's picks!

1. Ed Sheeran- X



Easily one of the best albums of last year (released June 2014) and still going strong. I knew who Ed Sheeran was but it wasn't until I heard the first track off this album that he became a favorite. When I first heard Sing, I honestly thought it was Justin Timberlake. Ed Sheeran was more known for his slower, more romance infused songs such as The A Team this album went a bit different route for him. He still has the sweet and sometimes sappy tunes which is evident in Thinking Out Loud but this album has more edge. My favorite song off this particular album is probably the brush-off (possibly aimed at ex Ellie Goulding) Don't. Do yourself a favor if you haven't already, buy X right now. Seriously.

2. Unknown Mortal Orchestra- Multi-Love



Although the video for Multi-Love may look like an old video game mixed with Windows 95 and a dash of the 70's, don't let it scare you off from Unknown Mortal Orchestra. My friends know how much I love music and often give me a heads up on artists or bands I may like. When my ATL based music savvy friend texted me back in May about this song, I was quick to look it up. Unknown Mortal Orchestra is similar to music you would have heard in the 70's. Like the band Walk the Moon (who was a pick in last month' post) I felt the need to confirm this was a present band and not one from the past. They are definitely present and I would recommend checking them out today!

3. Trainwreck Official Movie Soundtrack



This soundtrack is pure fun, much like the movie. On another note, if you haven't seen the film, I highly recommend it! Yes, it does have some racy moments but it really ends up being a very sweet film. Back to music! The songs almost follow the pattern of the movie and include songs from Miley Cyrus, Lady Sovereign, and even 90's staple The Boy Is Mine. There is also appearances from The Bird and the Bee, Norah Jones, and plenty of  Billy Joel (you have to watch the movie to find out why!). A great summer soundtrack!

4. The Weeknd-Beauty Behind Madness



This band was part of another pick from a few weeks ago (yes, I still stand that the 50 Shades of Grey Soundtrack is one of the best albums of the year) and I fell in love with the song Earned It as soon as I heard it. They had been around for a while but they really gained popularity this past February. Since then their songs such as The Hills and the summer hit I Can't Feel My Face are on constant replay. Their album Beauty Behind the Madness is one to own!

5. Counting Crows-This Desert Life



I always like to include a "throwback" album or song in my picks. This Desert Life is an excellent album by Counting Crows. I may be partial because I was mildly obsessed with the song Colorblind when I was younger (and I kind of still am) due to its beautiful lyrics and oh yeah it was featured in the 90's movie classic Cruel Intentions starring Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Philippe (when they were married). This song plays during a pivotal scene...you know which one I'm talking about. The album also contains Hanginaround and Mrs. Potter's Lullaby. Now go download the album then grab some tissues and watch Cruel Intentions.

Hope you enjoyed this week's picks! I'm always looking for new music (past and present) so let me know if you have any suggestions, I love hearing from you guys!

Go listen to the music,

XOXO,

Music Wednesday

 

I love music. I always have. One of my biggest regrets is not learning how to play some type of musical instrument. I also can't sing which is like a tragedy for someone who loves music. Have you ever been driving in your car and singing along to a song and the radio or song skips a little and you just hear your voice? That's how I first realized I really couldn't sing. But this post is not about my inability to carry a tune, its about what music you need now! I think this will end up becoming a bi-monthly regular posting so I am always up for suggestions and artists you think I should check out.

Let's get today's list started!

1. Vaults

Sweet lyrics with a soft, almost romantic sound. A good friend from Atlanta first told me about this UK based band and I instantly loved their sound. Vaults were then featured on the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack (That soundtrack is amazing. The movie is well...you know. Take my word you will love the soundtrack!) with their song "One Last Night".  Visit their official Facebook page for more details on old music, new music, and any upcoming events/appearances.

Photo Credit: Vaults Official Facebook Page

Check out their song and performance of "Mend this Love" here.

Can also listen and watch the video to "One Last Night" now.

2. Strangers by RAC

Electronic beats make this band one of my new favorites. I know some people are hesitant to listen to music that is considered "indie" because maybe they think they won't like it? Perhaps not mainstream enough? Or maybe too mainstream for others. I like this band because it has fast beats without the electro auto-tuning found far too often in music now. Their album Strangers is definitely worth checking out.

Photo Credit: iTunes and RAC

Watch their video for Let Go featuring Kele and MNDR.

3. Walk the Moon

This band has gotten mixed reviews from my music loving buddies and I will be the first to admit I LOVE the title track from this 2014 album, you know the one...Shut Up and Dance With Me. I remember first hearing this song months before it became the summer staple of 2015. Immediately I thought of an 80's dance track and wondered at first if it was even a current song. Their album Talking is Hard is out now (and has been since November) and worth a recommendation!

Photo Credit: iTunes and Walk the Moon

 

Go ahead and watch the 80's inspired video for Shut Up and Dance and just try not to sing along. Or dance. Or both.

4. Pearl Jam album 10

Ok, I know we are going back to the 90's on this one. I love the 90's. I was pretty much just a child throughout the decade but it is one of my favorite music eras. True, I am more familiar with the late 90's/early 00's pop boom (yes, I vividly remember buying Britney and Nsync's first cd's at Sam Goody) but the early 90's were a bit more rock. My older brother was into bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam,Oasis, and I think there was even a Limp Bizkit cd in the mix later (even though he tries to deny it). I remember hearing my brother play this music but I was more interested in other things (Spice Girls Wannabe was on constant replay). I first heard some of the songs from the Pearl Jam album 10 during a pop culture class two years ago in college.  I immediately knew I had to own this album. I think my favorite song just might be the first track, Once . Check out this classic!

Photo Credit: iTunes and Pearl Jam

5. The 50 Shades of Grey Soundtrack

Please don't count me out on music just because you see this on the list! As stated earlier, this is by far one of my favorite albums of the year and a fantastic soundtrack for an "interesting" film. When I first saw the listing of the artists featured on the album, I was pretty shocked. Rolling Stones? Sia? Beyoncé? Vampire Weekend? All there and many more. Apparently the director and writers of the film even met with some of the artists to show them the actual scenes from the movie which the music would be accompanying. Earned It by The Weeknd is probably the breakthrough song and even though they have been around for a while, this song has constant radio play now. Ellie Goulding also has the biggest hit of her career with Love Me Like I Do. The Beyoncé remixes of her classic Crazy in Love and newer song Haunted are also very good. I have had this album on repeat since February. Don't let the movie deter you from buying this soundtrack!

Photo Credit: iTunes and Fifty Shades of Grey

That wraps up my first music selection post! Do you have any music that I need to know about right now? Let me know! I love hearing from you guys!

Go Listen to Some Tunes!

XOXO,

Fan Festival Ready

 

It's no secret I love music. I also love concerts. So music festivals for me are a no brainer. As you may know I recently attended the fabulous Slossfest right here in beautiful Birmingham, AL. You can read all about my experience here! That got me thinking, what are the best music festivals in the country? I have attended several and each year the lineups just appear to get better and better. What's really cool is when festivals book artists several months (possibly a year) in advance and then certain artists blows up and you get to see them at a premiere location without the hefty concert ticket price.  That seemed to be a trend at last year's Atlanta Music Midtown Festival (and it was amazing!). Let's get the list started!

Fest: Tomorrowworld

Where? Atlanta, GA

When? September 25-27

The name is enough for me to want to attend. A spinoff of the very popular Tomorrowland fest (held in Belgium at the end of July) this festival is like fairies, nymphs, woods, and music all rolled into one. Take a look at the line-up below and then buy your tickets  for this one of a kind dream, fantasy style event. They also provide VIP tickets, payment plans (perfect option for those of us on a budget) and "magical bus voyages" meaning they can take you from selected towns (Bham is an option!) right to the festival so that means you won't be the one driving in Atlanta traffic. You can just sit back and relax.

Watch the intro video here!

Tomorrowworld Lineup (photo credit: Tomorrowland.com)

Fest: Secret Stages

Where: Birmingham, AL

When: July 30-Aug 2

Much like the title suggests, Secret Stages is essentially that. This event is perfect for those of you who like up and coming musicians and bands as well as diverse music. The event used to be pretty secretive, hence the name, in fact I didn't even know about until 2 years ago. Definitely more of an underground scene so you will be treated to names that might not be big...yet. I like this option because it showcases new talent from around the country as well as local artist and the price tag makes me super happy ($35 for a weekend pass. And $75 for a VIP pass). Get your tickets now and make this a Birmingham weekend event. Check out the lineup here as well as listen to some of the bands and artists playing that weekend. Get all additional info including hotels, schedules and venues at the official page.

photo credit: Secret Stages.com

Fest: Lollapalooza

Where? Chicago, IL

When? July 31-Aug 3rd

Definitely one of the biggest festivals of the summer kicks off as summer as nearing an end. View the lineup below and then check the schedule (that lineup is intense, I mean Paul McCartney...yes). Tickets have gone fast for this one but there are still several options available for you to make it to the windy city next weekend! If you will be traveling and especially if you are with a group, I would recommend one of the travel packages which include VIP tickets and a hotel room, this option is for two and four people. Want more info? Just check here! I'm seriously so jealous if you are attending this one!

Lollapalooza Lineup (photo credit: Lollapalooza.com)

Fest: Ink-N-Iron Nashville

Where? Nashville, TN

When? August 6-9

Ok, I'll be the first to admit it, I'm not crazy about country music. But this festival looks legit. Nashville is one of my favorite cities (if you haven't been there before, you need to make a trip) and how can you not take this fest serious with the tagline "In the Land of Cash and Elvis"? Find out the entire schedule of where you need to be and when then pack up your cowboy boots and head over to one of the cities hotels currently offering discounts for festival goers. There will also be something called the Tattoo Hall and apparently some burlesque dancing. Ladies, you can break out that bustier for the Pin-Up Pageant (don't forget your red lipstick!). This festival looks like an absolute blast so get your tickets while you can!

Lineup (photo credit: inifestival.com)

Fest: Music Midtown

Where? Atlanta, GA

When? September 18 and 19th

This was hands down my favorite music festival last year. Music Midtown just always seem to get headliner after headliner and I love the variety (this years acts feature Elton John, Drake, Hozier, Van Halen, and Hall and Oates among others) check out the full lineup and schedule now. I would also suggest buying your tickets now as well as booking your hotel. We stayed at one of the hotels within walking distance and it was a great decision. When the city gets crowded it can be easier to tackle this festival (as well as most other fests) on foot if you can. Find out what the best hotel for you is and be sure to book early! They will fill up. The more I look at this lineup, the more I want to try and at least attend one day (probably Friday) of this two-day event. Hopefully I'll see you there!

Lineup (photo credit: Music Midtown)

I just mentioned a FEW of my picks but there are plenty of options coming up in the next few weeks and it's never too early to start planning for next year. If you are in a music mood check out all the festivals (USA and beyond) you can attend! The next big question...what to wear?

Here are my top 5 festival fashion picks!

1. Backless Dress

This Free People dress is perfection (also comes in a beautiful blue and light peach) plus the tassels are on trend and on point for this summer. Also, the color is great for fall with grey boots. Pair with a bandeau for more support or coverage if needed.


Free People Ayu Dress

 

2. Flower Halo

I know they are becoming cliché and "basic" but I just feel the need to put on one of these sunny halos when it comes to being outdoors and listening to music. Sunflowers are classic flower child.

Festy Besty Sunny Halo


 

3.  Birkenstock Sandals

Your feet will hurt at a festival. Take it from a girl who wore wedge heels to her first one, go for the comfort factor. They don't get much more comfortable than these, yes Birkenstocks are back. But this time they are more stylish and come in a wide array of styles and colors. I like this simple black option that will go with just about anything.

Birkenstock Sandal
 

4. Hip Bag

I know what you are all thinking...she wants us to wear a fanny pack? Yes...and no. These are not the bags you remember your mom wearing at Disney World in the 90's, they actually have very fashionable ones now. You may not trust me on this one but believe me having your hands free and not having to worry about a purse is a Godsend at an all day outdoor event. I love this fringe option to keep up with boho inspired fashions! Check out all these great (and stylish) options.

Hipsters for Sisters Fringe Belt Bag

5. High Waist Denim Shorts

I love a good denim short. These have practically been a go-to this summer and I have been living in them since I bought them way back in May. High waist shorts can be easier at a festival since you will most likely have to sit on the ground throughout the day and these are much easier than hip hugging or low rise options. Also, remember to bring a towel or blanket to sit on! Rain showers are common in the summer and the last thing you want is to sit in a muddy area or get dirt on your clothes in general. I suggest just bringing an old beach towel or if you really desire one of those fold up chairs (if you have the space).



Lovers+Friends Jack High Short

Happy Thursday! Hope you find the festival for you!

XOXO,