Garlic & Herb Focaccia Bread

I am so excited for this one! I have been expanding the varieties of food I have been cooking and baking and I love sharing these new recipes with you guys. To start the new year, I have been on a total bread making kick, and lots of you have been wanting to try my recipes!! I have been trying my best to perfect different types and flavors of bread and I think this is the one that is finally ready to share! It’s SUPER easy and so tasty it’s addicting! Just takes a little time in the fridge over night but my goodness do you have a yummy bread once its done!! Amazing for sandwiches, side dishes with dinner, and honestly it’s just perfectly good on it own maybe even with a nice glass of wine. So let’s get to baking!

I am using my 360 Cookware Jelly Roll Pan linked -here- . The perfect size for this and so many other things! You can use my code AMANDA20 for 20% off the entire website!

Ingredients:

4 Cups Flour

2 teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons instant yeast

2 cups warm water

Olive Oil spray to grease pan

3 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp flaky sea salt

2 tsp Italian seasoning

3 minced garlic cloves

Directions:

1. Mix flour, salt, yeast and warm water in bowl. Combined well and cover with a towel or plastic wrap. Put in fridge over night. (9 hours or Upto 24)

2. The next morning take out pan to bake in. I like this -Jelly Roll- the most from 360 the sides are the perfect amount and its a great size to bake this bread in. Oil pan and oil bread mixture.

3. Lay oiled bread mixture onto pan and let rise for 20 min covered with towel. If your home is cool I suggest warming the oven up for 1 minute while prepping bread and turning off. Then placing pan with bread in to feel warmth and rise.

4. After risen. Move bread into a longer shape to fill the pan and poke. Using fingers you will make small indentions along the bread. Let rise again for 20 min to 1 hour until bread has risen enough for you see it past the jelly roll line.

5. Next poke more holes and then sprinkle over oil mixture; Mixture of minced garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning and sea salt.

6. Bake at 425 for 25 to 30 min until the bottom is crisp and the top is a golden color. Let cool and enjoy!

Nashville Travel Guide

Looking for a quick trip to a stylish musical town full of energy and life? Look no further then Nashville! Its a fun-filled town with of so many great music venues featuring live music, great restaurants, hotels, bars, history and places to shop! You honestly cant go wrong with so much to choose from …but here were all my favorites!

Where To Stay: Kimpton Aertson Hotel

You already know I am a HUGE Kimpton fan! So as soon as they opened their new spot in Nashville I had it on my bucket list of places to visit and stay! After our stay I was once again reminded why I do LOVE Kimpton Hotels! The staff was amazing, rooms were amazingly hip and they of course had all the amenities you could ever need! (hotel spa, great restaurant and Bar, gym, wine hour, coffee and hot cocoa in the morning and valet)

What To Do:

Nashville is full of so many fun things to do and music to see everywhere!! These are the things we enjoyed the most and would do again one day and highly recommend if you’re planning a trip here soon! I am listing them in order of what we liked the most incase you don’t have time to do it all and have to prioritize.

THE GRAND OLE OPRY

I loved going to the famous historic Opry venue on night one so much that we decided to go again on the last night we were in Nashville for a benefit concert! If you are a short girl like me who normally hates going to concerts because everyone is taller then you then this is the type of concert venue you want. Everyone sits for pretty much the whole concert, enjoys the music and it seems so much more intimate then huge sports venues. I also love that so many talented musicians that may or may not be household names yet are nightly regulars there and they often have hit new songs you’ve on the radio!

THE LISTENING ROOM

Another great experience was the listening room. Its an extremely intimate venue with food and drinks and most everyone is so close that they are literally be right next to the stage. Here you are listening to lesser known but totally talented artists or songwriters who are sharing their music. Could be a number one hit, something they just wrote today or a song you’ll hear on the radio in a few years. They have different artists every night and its a fun setting that really gets you to experience the music. We had the pleasure of seeing 3 different singers sharing the stage and taking turns playing their songs and incorporating their musical and life journey along the way with the crowd.

VISITING THE SUBURB OF FRANKLIN

If you are up for a day trip I 100% recommend heading to the quaint town of Franklin about 20 minutes outside of Nashville. Its an adorable little historic town with the cutest shopping, great restaurants, coffee shops and so much charm! We met the nicest people working in the downtown stores and had the nicest conversations with them. We decided to eat breakfast at Biscuit Love here and after shopping around town we headed just to the edge of town and got to do one of our favorite vacation activities with some wine tasting at the beautiful winery Arrington Vineyards.

GOO GOO CLUSTERS

If you want the original American candy makers this is the spot. Goo Goo Clusters was the first candy making company to actually put more than 1 other ingredient into their chocolate candies. Everything was delicious and they have an area in the back of the factory where you can create your own goo goo candies and listen to some great goo goo history which makes it a family fun stop right next to Broadway!

RYMAN AUDITORIUM

You can see artists perform at this famous historic venue or just simply do a daily tour. We decided to just do the tour being the shows didn’t fit into our schedule. The tour was so cool and the building is so beautiful. It’s a great way to spend a couple hours also happens to be right next to Broadway.

THE PARTHENON

This was a mile from our hotel so we decided to do as a morning walk with coffee to explore more of the city. Once you arrive at the Parthenon they have a QR code on the ground you can scan to have a guided online free tour and learn more about the structures history. Beautiful to see and inside of a the gorgeous Centennial Park.

THE PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

This was another morning walk for us to get some exercise and the best way to see the city downtown skyline views from across the bridge and across the river leading to their NFL team football stadium. If you are at all like my husband then seeing any pro stadium within reach of any trip we take is a must! There are multiple bridges to see along a flowing river that leads to some beautiful views

BROADWAY STREET

Probably the most popular thing to do in Nashville! It is a must do but at the bottom of my list just because one day of the partying was enough for me. I highly recommend bar hopping all the famous bars like Tootsie’s. I’m sure if you are here for a bachelorette party or with friends Broadway would be where everyone spends most of their time! Every bar had a different vibe and there was lots of live music at every one. I suggest just popping into them all and seeing if you like the crowd and ordering a drink if you do. If you don’t go to the next one, you are sure to find a spot you love! I don’t really recommend eating anywhere near Broadway but I’ll share all my favorite places to eat below!

Where To Eat:

The real reason I love going on vacation AND can totally make or break a trip for me.. just ask my husband how my mood can change with a great meal! The first day of Nashville I was pretty sad we hadn’t had anything that delicious, but come day 2 I was a much happier traveler! Here are my favorites from the trip listed in order of my favorites!

BARCELONA WINE BAR

Amazingly delicious Spanish tapas! Every single thing we got was delicious, fresh and was one of my favorite meals!! I would recommend a reservation here but you will mostly likely be okay getting in with a small wait. We went mid week and it was PACKED. We got a small bite and wine at the bar for our 30 min wait and it was perfect!

BAR TACO

We love bar taco! They have them all over the East Coast and I highly recommend going if you are ever near one! We have loved every variety of taco we’ve eaten, and their side dishes and guac and chips is amazing. Also the drinks (margs) are always so fresh! If we both had to pick one thing you must get it’s the Glazed Pork Belly tacos for sure! We both said we could eat them every single day and not get tired of them! I kind of want one right now..

BISCUIT LOVE

This was a top pick on all the blogs I read and I can see why! Biscuits galore and drinks were also amazing! Everyone said to get the Bonuts so we did and they were a delicious desert to add to our breakfast! They have several locations all over Nashville and one in Franklin. We went to the one in Franklin during our day exploring and loved the charming house they redid.

FIVE DAUGHTERS BAKERY

The most delicious donuts you will eat! They are also all over town so you honestly cant miss it! I highly recommend the maple bacon donut! DELISH!

HENLEY

Perfect location because it was at our hotel! However, almost every single Kimpton hotel we have been to has had the most delicious restaurants. I always love to order room service at least one day on vacation because that means I get to sleep in! HAHA! Loved the brunch we had. Delicious avocado toast!

THE PHARMACY

Great burgers and beer garden featuring some unique European beers. All the burgers are delicious and make sure you get the tots YOU WONT regret it! Loved that they had spiked milkshakes also, so fun and delicious!

THE WHITE LIMOZEEN

We only had drinks here so I can only speak to that but they were YUM! The atmosphere was also worth even just going for a cocktail! Super cute for a girls night! Recommend reservations they book out quick and start only 2 weeks ahead of the date.

HATTIE B’S

This is a MUST if you visit because HOT CHICKEN. Everything was super delicious and when I say everything.. we ordered pretty much the whole menu. We had this first night when we arrived and hadn’t eaten all day. So our eyes were totally bigger then our stomach but we loved getting to try it all!

Watermelon Twist Cocktail

This is such great drink to have really any time of the year, but being that its pink I had to share the recipe near Valentines day! It’s an easy drink to make with only 4 ingredients! You can also easily double or triple this recipe to make for parties with bigger groups. Trust me you will find yourself needing to do this because it is quite the crowd pleaser!

Ingredients:

2 oz Watermelon Pucker

2 oz Sweet & Sour Mix

2 oz Vanilla Vodka (regular will work too)

Lemon Sparkling Water

Directions:

1. Grab a cocktail shaker! Add ice and the first 3 ingredients! SHAKE IT UP!

2. Grab your cocktail glass. I like to add a little sugar rim to add some fun to this but total preference on this one! Add Ice and strain over mixture from cocktail shaker.

3. Finish off with bubbles! I like to add lemon sparkling water for a lighter refreshing drink. You can also do 7up or Champagne!

4. Enjoy!!

To make this into multiple drinks you would just double, triple or quadruple the first 3 ingredients in the shaker and then follow instructions as above!

Creating a Magical and Romantic Valentines Table Setting

February is one of my favorite months of the year! I’m a sucker for all the love in the air! So I had to kick off the month with an adorable table scape that has all the romantic feels! Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to surprise your loved one with a romantic evening filled with love and affection. One of the best ways to do so is to create a beautiful and intimate Valentine’s Day table setting. With the right tableware, décor, and table layout, you can create the perfect romantic setting for a magical night. In this blog post, you will learn how to set the perfect romantic Valentine’s Day table setting that will impress your loved one!

Creating a romantic Valentines table setting is a great way to make your dinner special. Begin by choosing a light and airy color palette such as pale pinks, golds, and whites to create a romantic and whimsical atmosphere. To start, create a romantic setting with candles and cascading florals. Go for an all-pink theme with pink linens, and pink accents for a classic look. Incorporate velvet and gold accents for a romantic textured vibe. To add more beautiful texture to the table, try using floral place settings. Using lots of baby's breath and beautiful pinks of all shades for a cascading floral display make for a one-of-a-kind centerpiece. To finish off the look, set up a fun bar cart with drinks. Decoy wines are a great option to allow guests to pick their favorite. To add a touch of romance, use pastel-colored candles and place them in long stem gold vases. This look is beautiful and sure to set the mood for a romantic dinner. With these ideas, your Valentine's Day table setting is sure to be the most romantic occasion yet!

Last year I did a fun and flirty theme with lots of rosey pink! This year I went more of a mauve pink, with romantic baby's breath everywhere!! The velvet tablecloth gave a lovely soft texture with cascading flowers down the side and candles burning for an even more intimate final touch!

Blossom Lane dishes from Lenox gave yet another delicate touch with the most beautiful white on white floral pattern. These dishes were absolutely perfect for a fancy Valentines dinner but also not too over powering for everyday use as well! I finished the place settings with Tuscany Rosé glasses to enjoy our Decoy Rosé all night long!

I truly hope this helps in your planning for a romantic Valentines tablescape!

I linked everything I used and all the brands who made this gorgeous valentines come to life:

Floral: Emerald Grace

Wine: Decoy by Duckhorn Portfolio

Dinnerware Set & Glasses: Lenox

Linens: La Tavola

Bakeware: 360 Cookware

Dress: Red Dress Boutique

Other beautiful Valentines Tablescapes I have done:

A Rosy Pink Galentines Party

Creating the Perfect Valentines Rosé and Brunch Tablescape

Italian Sausage, Potato & Kale Soup

There is just something about cold, foggy, or rainy days that makes you want to curl up with a warm bowl of soup! I’ve been trying to add more greens creatively into recipes and meals I cook this year. So here is one of my favorite soups to make all year round, but especially right now as we finish off the cold of Winter.

Serves: 10 (2 cup Serving)

Ingredients:

2 lbs. of Italian Sausage

1 Onion

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 tsp sea salt

1 tsp italian seasoning

5 cloves of minced garlic

2 tbsp flour

4 cups vegetable broth

3 cups whole milk

3 large potatoes

6 cups chopped kale (if not fresh I get the pre chopped)

1-1/2 cups heavy cream

Parmesan Cheese to garnish

Directions:

1. Grab your biggest pot! I use the 8 quart stockpot with cover from 360cookware so I have plenty of room. The 6 quart will work great too (discount code below!). Heat on Low-Medium.

2. Add in Italian sausage and onion. Cooking and stirring until meat is cooked and onion is softened. Making sure to break up sausage into little bits.

3. Once cooked add in seasonings (red pepper flakes, sea salt Italian seasoning). Stir. Add in garlic and stir until fragrant. About 1 minute.

4. Next you will add the 2 tbsp. of flour and stir until well coated.

5. Add in Vegetable broth nice and slow to incorporate into the meat mixture. Then the whole milk. Stirring until well combined.

6. Take cut Potatoes (you can have these as small or as big as you like, but I do about an inch size) and add into pot. Stir to make sure they are all covered. Let come to a simmer and turn heat to low. Cover and let cook until fork can go through potatoes. 20-30 min.

7. Once potatoes are done add in heavy cream and then kale. Making sure to stir all together and incorporate fully so kale can soften.

8. Let cook for around 15 min until kale is soft.

9. Serve in bowl with parmesan cheese for garnish! Enjoy!!

Macros: FAT=28.6 CARB=20.2 PROTEIN=21.8

For Discount on Pot used and the ENTIRE site of 360cookware use “AMANDA20” for 20% off!

www.360cookware.com

9th Annual Christmas Cookie Party

This years 9th annual Christmas cookie party was my most over the top fabulous one yet, along with the biggest turn out I’ve ever had!! I had so much fun turning my home into a gingerbread wonderland!! Thanks to all my favorite local vendors I was able to put together exactly what my vision board looked like!! I linked everything I possibly could below! Everything I couldn’t link was a rental. I highly suggest renting table cloths for any party. It makes for such an easy clean up and allows you to mix colors for every party for more variety! I had such fun using a light green to match the plates here and you already know PINK was included as much as possible!! Listing all vendors below. Be sure to click on their names to see more of their work, support them and hire them for your next party!!

List of Vendors:

Florals : Emerald Grace

Rentals : Details Party Rentals

Cake : Sweet Flour Designs

Charcuterie : Fig & Olive Co.

Caramel Brownies : Guiltless Goods

I hope you enjoyed following along with me and being a part of the party as much as I did putting it together! I linked everything I purchased and similar items to those I rented! Happy Holidays and happy Party Planning!

xo, Amanda

Brown Sugar Toffee Cookies

This cookie recipe has 3 of my favorite yummy ingredients: Brown Sugar, Brown Butter & Toffee!! That’s a lot of delicious goodness all cooked on my 360 cookware!! I love using 360 because for one its all made in the USA! I always love supporting companies and products made in the USA and work hard to find them. Second.. they are the best pans I have used particularly for making cookies hands down! They all are non toxic and so easy to clean. I cant say enough good things about them..They also have bowls that are just as amazing. To share my love I have a code for 20% off! Use code AMANDA20 to get 20% off your next purchase. Start shopping -here-

Brown Sugar Toffee Cookie Recipe

Toffee Recipe :

1 cup cubed salted butter

1 cup white sugar

1 tsp vanilla

1. On low heat mix cubed butter and sugar. Using a spatula continue to stir to prevent from burning

2. Once color starts to change add in vanilla

3. Once color starts to look like peanut butter pour onto parchment paper

4. Let cook for 10-20 min.

5. Crack! You are ready to enjoy AND add into cookies!

Cookie Recipe:

1 cup brown butter

2 cups brown sugar (I do one of these dark brown but totally optional)

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

4 cups flour

1 tsp salt

4 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup milk

toffee

sea salt for topping

1. Brown butter in a sauce pan. I do this first because it needs to cool. Once butter starts browning in color and smells nutty you can put in a bowl to cool

2. Preheat oven to 375

3. Once butter is cooled enough (I usually give it at least 20-30 min, while I am making toffee) blend butter and brown sugar.

4. Add in eggs and vanilla and mix well.

5. Stir dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Alternating between dry and milk adding into wet ingredients.

6. Lastly add in toffee. You can use as much of the recipe from toffee as you want! Save some to add on the side of cookies, eat, or enjoy it all in the cookies.

7. I take a cookie scoop and do 2 scoops one on top of each other then sprinkle the top with sea salt. This gives a nice fluffy cookie.

8. Bake for 11-13 min.

9. ENJOY!

Hearty Ground Beef Chili

The temps are cooling down outside and I am going crazy with the one pot warm dishes that make my belly happy and so ready for the Fall season! I received my first box from “Good Chop” and knew I had to share a yummy recipe using their delicious meats. Luckily, my box came with ground beef and chili was on my mind. There is nothing better than a warm, tasty, hearty ground beef chili on these cool nights! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as me and my family did:)

Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter

1 onion

2 chopped peppers

2 lbs ground beef

6 oz tomato paste

2- 15.5 oz kidney beans

15.5 oz black beans

14.5 oz diced tomatoes

2 Tbs taco seasoning (my recipe is here)

2 cups beef or chicken broth

Directions:

1. Grab your biggest pot and heat butter.

2. Chop onion and peppers and add to melted butter. Stir until vegetables soften.

3. Add in ground beef to softened vegetables and cook/stir until cooked.

4. Once beef is all cooked add in all the rest of ingredients. Stir then add lid to pot.

5. Let cook on low for 30 min. Stir every 5-10 min.

6. Enjoy! Add all the toppings you love and maybe pair with some delicious corn bread on the side!

For discount on your box of Good Chop use code WARREN100 to receive $100 off your first 3 orders

Our Neutral (with pops of pink) Bedroom

When updating our bedroom after moving everything over to the beach house I wanted to mix of all the styles I like.. a little boho with a sprinkle of vintage! To tell the truth I really don’t know what my style for home décor is.. I love parts of all styles so I’m always trying to make it work together. I think I was able to complete this in our bedroom but also make it functional and cozy!

I also really wanted to add in pink to the all neutral room but still keep it masculine enough for Scotty. By getting the wood edging bed that has so much detail I felt it added texture and kept the rest of the bedding neutral, except the 2 blush muted pillows to add the pink I wanted. Then I added 2 vases to carry the color though. Along with our photos on the wall where I am wearing a pink dress in some. This gave the touch of color I wanted without Scotty caring. This also gives me room to change it out in the future if I want and not spending a bunch of money.

Linking everything below and similar items incase they sold out! Hope you love it as much as I do!

Xo, Amanda

A weekend in Tampa Bay

Ended our week long road trip around Florida in Tampa Bay! It made for a great weekend of exciting sports, delicious food, and a wonderfully comfortable stay. We mostly visited Tampa to see their baseball team the Ray’s play the Red Sox on our quest to see all 30 baseball stadiums. This stadium trip made for our 21st! It was also a playoff game which made for a great rowdy crowd. Along with watching the game We also really enjoyed driving around the different areas of the city and seeing all the beautiful homes (especially in Hyde Park and on Davis Island). Hyde Park also has an adorable outdoor shopping area ful! of great upscale shopping and restaurants.

We stayed at The Karol Hotel which was the perfect logistical location between the baseball stadium and the bridge into downtown Tampa. Such a clean and beautiful hotel with all the perfect perks you cold ever need. They had chic rooms with coffee machines for those relaxing mornings and a nice gym that makes Scotty very happy! Located on the water for beautiful views! I absolutely loved that they had a rooftop bar with excellent views across the bay into downtown Tampa to enjoy as well as the most delicious restaurant. I cant tell you enough how delicious it was!! We ordered the cheese tray, grouper piccata, braised short rib and two lovely glasses of wine. Everything was delicious.

We got great advice on a historic restaurant to eat at in town called Columbia Restaurant that was the most highly recommended place on all the blogs and research I did. They have several locations in town with, the original being in the historic Ybor district (another fun place to see and hangout!). We ordered everything off the menu that was highlighted in “red” as being their highly recommended items and it was all so good!

Tampa is filled with many cute shopping and eating spots to hangout and tons of delicious restaurants! We really loved our relaxing end of the trip and seeing Tampa play Boston in the first post season series for the year. Do you have any favorite spots in Tampa? Be sure to leave them below for everyone to see. I know there is so much more we didn’t have time to see and cover in 2 quick days!

Xo, Amanda

3 Mexican Mule Recipes with a Twist!

Taking my favorite social drink and making it even BETTER! The Moscow Mule has been one of my favorite drinks for a while now. The popular drink actually came out in the 1940’s… but boy has it become extra trendy just over the last decade! There are so many different tasty spins on the drink. The Mexican Mule for you tequila loving fans using 21seeds is a great way to drink it! 21seeds makes the most delicious infused tequilas that are amazing on their own, but I always love an adorable cocktail. Here are my 3 favorite drink recipes! The most convenient part of these signature cocktails are that 2 of the ingredients are in each of the 3 drinks, making it even easier to have a variety at parties without needing too many different ingredients!

The Valencia Orange Mule

3 oz Ginger Beer

1.5 oz Valencia Orange 21Seeds

.5 oz Fresh Orange Juice

.5 oz Simple Syrup

Directions:

Add all ingredients over ice in a shaker and shake. Strain in cocktail glass and add garnish. I thinly slice oranges to add on top for the cutest garnish.

The Grapefruit Hibiscus Mule

3 oz. Ginger Beer

1 oz. Grapefruit Juice

1.5 oz Grapefruit Hibiscus 21Seeds Tequila

.5 oz Simple Syrup

Directions:

Add all ingredients over ice in a shaker and shake. Strain in cocktail glass and add garnish. I thinly slice grapefruit to add on sides for the cutest garnish. You could also do like above cocktail if the glass is wide enough.

The Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Mule

4 oz Ginger Beer

1.5 oz Cucumber Jalapeno 21Seeds Tequila

.5 oz Simple Syrup

2 tbsp of Jalapeno Slices from jar with juice

Directions:

Add all ingredients over ice in a glass and stir. Strain over fresh ice, in mule glass and add garnish. I like to add sliced cucumber and jalapeno for garnish.

Hope you enjoy these drinks as much as me and the hubby have been!

For more info on 21Seeds and to purchase head -here-

For more Halloween recipes on the 21Seeds blog -here-

@21seeds

Cheer’s, Amanda

Unmasking Elegance: Hosting a Magically Chic Halloween Party

Spooky can also be stylish! As Halloween approaches, feel free to throw away notions of traditional decor, fake blood, and store-bought costumes. It's entirely possible to embrace the spirit of this ghoulish holiday while still maintaining a hint of refinement and elegance. Join us as we explore how to host a chic Halloween party that combines the thrill of spooktacularly eerie vibes with a classy, tasteful aesthetic. From sophisticated Halloween decor to gourmet treats and high-fashion costumes, we've got you covered for the most memorable and glamorous all-out Halloween bash ever!

Halloween can be such a fun Holiday for many reasons such as decorating, dressing up for a costume party and staying in to watch scary movies. However.. I must admit, this girl isn’t the biggest ‘Halloween’ fan. I blame my Mom for my normal lack of Halloween cheer because she wasn’t the biggest fan of the day either haha! Anything scary just isn’t my thing and dressing up as a character never has been overly enjoyable to me. What I do absolutely LOVE is the vibe of the Fall season. Anything Harvest and Fall Festive is my jam. My husband, however, loves Halloween, so I wanted to try combining his love for the spooky season and my love for throwing a great dinner party to celebrate!! Here is my vision of what I call a Chic Halloween Party or Grown-up Halloween. This is my cutesy twist on the season all while trying my best to incorporate my love for light colors (of course pink) with a little bit of traditional Halloween colors to really make it a perfect mix for a spooky seasonal party!

Incorporate Florals

Are you looking for ways to make your Halloween party more chic? Look no further! Incorporating florals into your decorations can be a great way to create a spooktacular sophisticated atmosphere. You can use flowers to create an arrangement along with ghosts, bats, pumpkins and florals for a very chic look. You can also create a festive vase with beakers and florals. White roses and spider webs placed in the arrangement will add a unique and elegant touch. With the combination of these decorations, your Halloween party will be the talk of the town!

The most important thing I add to any table is the centerpiece. Nine times out of ten my centerpieces will always be floral! I am such a huge flower fan so adding flowers to my tables is always an absolute must! They smell great, look great and give you a gorgeous full centerpiece.. and its the gift that keeps on giving because you get to enjoy them for the next week! My girl Julie at Emerald Grace has done my last few parties and she is THE BEST at always making beautiful pieces! I love the touches of orange with the pinks for the table and bar cart that really mixed well with the colors of the cocktails. The flowers made everything flow really well. Another touch we did was a beaker as a flower vase! Making the bar cart a chic mad science lab haha! You can also do this with glass bottles if you can't find beakers or don't want to purchase something new.

Think Beyond Orange

When it comes to putting together chic Halloween party decorations, it is important to think beyond the traditional orange and black decorations. By utilizing shades of your favorite colors with black and white, you can personalize a stylish and sophisticated look for your Halloween gathering. This is perfect for those adults who prefer a more subtle touch of Halloween spirit in their party decor. You can create an inviting atmosphere with elegant white linens and black accents. Add a touch of glamour to your party with shimmery all-black and white decorations. You can also use faux pumpkins, black and white flowers, and other chic Halloween party decorations to bring your party to life.

Other Items on my tabletop settings were my everyday dishes from Pottery Barn. These babies look good on every table I do. However, if you don’t have white dishes or are throwing a larger party, I highly recommend renting all the dishes and glasses. They are my favorite things to rent because it means you have fewer dishes to do at the end of the night! SCORE! Being this was a smaller party, I also went ahead and got the gold flatware I have been wanting for a while now. I found a set on Amazon and figured I’d give it another shot and hoped the gold was the right shade I was looking for. I am a little picky when it comes to gold silverware. I have tried ordering multiple times already and ended up sending them back. However, this time to my surprise this set was a gorgeous gold and I loved the style!

Another way to elevate your table décor is with some stylish glasses. The more the better. They add texture and height to every table. I did 3 with this table and I love that they are all different heights. Also, It worked perfectly that I did 3 because I served 3 different types of cocktails, in case my guests wanted to try all three.

I wanted to add in some additional Halloween decorations, because, after all, that’s what the party is for right?? So I did an adorable signature bat wall (That will also be doubling as decorations for my front porch for the rest of Halloween). I then added in some skulls. I did one on the main table next to the centerpiece and one on the bar cart to add another decorative element. Lastly, I picked a textured table runner. Technically this particular runner wasn’t originally made to be a table runner but it worked perfectly as one for the Halloween table and to drape on the bar cart! ( I will link everything below but note on the table runner I purchased, it comes with a TON of cloth. So if you are having a big party you’ll be set!!) Another thing you could do is a life-size skeletons pushing the bar cart!

Bake Sweet Treats & Chacuterie

Adding a chic touch to your Halloween party can be as easy as ordering from Bake Sweet Treats. From decadent cupcakes to spooky cookies, Bake Sweet Treats has a variety of treats to choose from to satisfy any Halloween craving. Cupcakes and cookies can be decorated with Halloween-themed decorations such as pumpkins, ghosts, and bats. If you're looking for something even more special, Bake Sweet Treats also offers a variety of Halloween-themed cakes with intricate designs and flavors. The delicious treats from Bake Sweet Treats will be sure to make your Halloween party unforgettable.

The most important part of EVERY party is good food and drinks! I always love to outsource where I can and found a local baker. Fun Fact, if you didn’t know I actually used to be a baker and would make cakes and desserts for parties and weddings back in the day. However I don’t bake nearly as much anymore and the amount of creative work that goes into them isn’t always worth the hassle for me, especially being a little out of practice. So I called up Rosalyn and sent her some inspo pics and she made the most adorable cake, cupcakes and cookies!!! If you are around our town of Tulare, CA area you can find her -here-. This cake would be perfect for any Halloween birthday as well!

Charcuterie boards are pretty much my favorite thing to create at every event. I’m sure you can all relate! This time I made mine Halloween-themed by putting it into a coffin, an unexpected festive twist! I also made sure to add in some seasonal favorites, as well as things that would complement the delicious cocktails! I also added in orange slices to incorporate a touch of the Halloween colors. You can make this any way you like with anything you have on hand that will tie into the event. One of my favorite things about charcuterie at parties is how easy they are to make with anything you have on hand.

Upgrade Your Bar Cart

Are you looking for a chic way to upgrade your Halloween party this year? Look no further than your bar cart! With a few simple touches, you can instantly transform your bar cart into a spooky and chic space perfect for entertaining. Start by hanging some bat cutouts (or any other Halloween-themed cutouts) from the ceiling or placing them on the wall for a festive touch. Then, stack some faux pumpkins and gourds around the cart for an autumnal feel. To amp up the Halloween vibe, add some spooky touches to your drinks like dry ice or a glow-in-the-dark garnish. For a classic Halloween touch, hang a black or white gauze cloth on the cart. With a few simple touches, you’ll have a chic Halloween bar cart that is sure to impress your guests!

I always love to do a signature cocktail at every party I throw. This time was no different! I found 21 Seeds tequila earlier this year and have been trying different cocktails out ( as well as enjoying it on its own). I really love that their brand has 3 different flavors. Their flavor choices are the perfect way to have multiple signature cocktails that please different pallets! I’ll be sharing the recipes I made this month so hang tight! Until then.. how cute does their tequila look on display!! 21 Seeds is a female-owned business, and you can find them at your local stores, to find head -here-. For more Halloween cocktails head to their website -here- or follow them on IG for more @21Seeds cocktail recipes!

Extra Tips on How to make your Halloween party look chic and sophisticated

To create the perfect atmosphere, it’s important to choose a sophisticated color palette and incorporate subtle Halloween elements. Blacks, whites, light pinks and oranges can be a great way to achieve a chic look. Pumpkins, ghosts, and bats can be used to decorate while still maintaining a sophisticated atmosphere. To complete the look, set the tone with an elegant invitation and hang a festive banner or two. When it comes to the music, jazz or classical can be great options for a chic Halloween party along with a few classic Halloween favorites. These genres will help create a sophisticated atmosphere without overshadowing the other elements of the party. Depending on your preferences, you can also explore other options such as classic rock or alternative music. By combining certain elements and small touches, you can create a chic Halloween party that your guests will remember and talk about for years to come. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can create the perfect Halloween atmosphere.

Hope you enjoyed this table décor and party ideas for a chic Halloween! Giving you more ideas then just an all-black halloween, but one full of color! Happy entertaining this holiday season. If you want to see more of these types of post please let me know below! Everything is also on my pinterest -here-.

Other Fun Tablescapes For a Fashionable Hostess:

Designing My Thanksgiving Table 2022: Festive Inspirations for a Memorable Feast!

Unveiling the Feast: A Warm Welcome to My Thanksgiving Table

Creating the Perfect Summer Tablescape

Creating the Perfect Father's Day Picnic with Table Decor Ideas

Transforming our Dining Room for a New Year Celebration!

Salsa Verde Chicken Enchiladas

I’ve been making this delicious dish for as long as I’ve been married! It’s a perfect Mexican treat for lunch or dinner that can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven, frozen and saved for later, or as a tasty treat to take to family gatherings or to friends in need of a good home cooked meal. Let’s be honest…who doesn’t love some delicious Mexican food?

Ingredients:

2 ears of sweet corn

1 red onion

2 large peppers

1 lb chicken

1 cup rice (1 cup water)

2 tbsp salted butter

16 oz shredded mozzarella cheese

6 oz blended cheese

24 oz salsa verde

12 corn tortillas

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425

2. Cut onion in 4ths and cut peppers in half and deseed. Toss onion, peppers and corn in olive oil and place in oven for 25 mins.

3. Rinse chicken and pat dry (I like to use strips of chicken to cook faster, you can pre cut now if you didn’t purchase that way). Take a pan with olive oil and heat on medium. Once pan is heated up add chicken and let cook on both sides.

4. While chicken is cooking take another pan out and melt butter. Once melted add in rice and stir until toasted. Then add in water. It will quickly boil so add lid and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 15 min.

5. While rice and vegetables are finishing up moving chicken to cutting board and cutting into small 1/2 inch pieces. Add to a bowl.

6. Once veggies are done cooking remove from oven and let cool. Once cooled and able to touch cut corn off the cobb and cut small almost minced size onion and jalapenos.

7. After taking out veggies turn temp down to 350 in oven.

8. Add veggies, chicken, almost all mozzarella (leave 1 cup out), 1 cup of salsa verde and cooked rice to a bowl. Mix well.

9. Take 2 damp paper towels and wrap around tortillas. Place in microwave for 30 seconds. This helps tortillas from breaking while rolling. Sometimes I do half at a time so they stay warm.

10. Put 1 cup of salsa verde on bottom of pan and start placing enchiladas. I try to stuff about 1 cup into each tortillas and roll.

11. Once all tortillas are rolled I put rest of salsa Verde over top. Then add on the blended cheese and left over mozarella.

12. Bake for 25 min and its ready!

13. Add any toppings you desire! Avocado, Feta, Cilantro, Lime, Sour Cream.. you name it!!

This is one of my favorite recipes to enjoy all year long. Its light, crispy and delicious for Summer, and come Winter I love to get creative and change the chicken out for left-over Thanksgiving and Christmas turkey. It is just as delicious and a great Holiday dish to add to the parties! I also love to double the recipe and freeze half for easy dinners on busy work nights or if I’m out of town and Scotty needs a quick meal. I do everything up until it goes into the oven. I freeze until I am ready to eat and take out then put right into the oven adding an extra 20 min to bake time.

Hope you love these as much as our family does!

Xo, Amanda

The Perfect Dress To Bring In Fall

Fall is the perfect time of year to layer up and embrace fashion trends. With the days getting shorter and the temperatures dropping, it’s time to start thinking about the perfect dress to bring in fall. Whether you’re looking for a dress to wear to a special occasion like a wedding guest or just want something stylish to add to your wardrobe, there are plenty of options to choose from. From rich colors and bold prints to cozy knits and classic cuts, there is something out there to fit every style and budget.

Fall is coming and this girl is 100% excited!! I hope you are too! I’m doing lots of Fall shopping for the house and of course for best fall dresses! I found this one on Revolve and am obsessed with the sweet sleeves and detailed bottom. The more detail on a dress the less forgettable it will be. Want to know the topper on this one? Pockets!! Add pockets to any dress and I’m in love! This dress runs a little oversized so size down one size for a better fit.

The flats I paired with this adorable dress are the perfect addition to any Fall outfit. Quilted faux leather tops are the perfect versatile pairing with a dress or to dress up jeans and a graphic tee outfit! Can't wait for more Fall styles to come!

This look & Similar styles linked below

Sharing other outfit options below to help you find the perfect dress to bring in fall

Fall dresses for weddings:

Long-sleeve turtleneck dresses & Fall dresses with boots:

Shirtdress for fall:

Other blog posts you may enjoy:

5 Ways To Elevate Your Christmas Style This Holiday Season

5 Tips When Shopping For Dresses For A Pear Shaped Body

5 Tips When Shopping For Jumpsuits For A Pear Shaped Body

Capture the Romance of Paris with Paris Couples Photos

If you’re looking for the perfect way to commemorate your time in the beautiful city of Paris with your loved one, consider having a couple's photoshoot. A couple's photoshoot in Paris is an ideal way to capture the beauty, romance, and adventure of your time in the City of Lights. From the iconic landmarks Eiffel Tower to the stunning architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris provides stunning background locations for any couple’s romantic photoshoot. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best spots to have a couple's photoshoot in Paris, as well as tips for making the most of the experience. Whether you are taking these for a big event like an anniversary, engagement, honeymoon, maternity, proposal or to just remember your once in a lifetime trip to Paris here are some great examples of how you can get creative with Pinterest worthy photoshoots! So, grab your cameras and get ready for a romantic day of capturing memories in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

One of the first things I did when we knew we were going to Europe was book a photographer! I already had one planned out that I had found online at Whatlolalike’s website! She had posted a blog post with photos from her trip and I loved them! So, naturally, I saved her post incase we were ever in the area. I actually have an entire folder of photographer’s I come across on Instagram that I save for inspiration. Whenever I see photos I like I’ll research the photographer’s page and see if they have the type of aesthetic I enjoy. Light and airy.. bonus points if I see pink on their feed!! This prep work makes is easy if we ever travel somewhere and we wanted photos I already have someone good in mind and I’m not searching last minute. Another way to find photographer’s when traveling is searching # (hashtags). That’s what they are for, to easily find places. So lets say I didn’t have this photographer already in mind.. I would search #parisphotographer and see what pops up, and go from there.

This shoot is probably one of my all time favorites we have ever done! It showed our trip and gave us a way to explore the city in a whole new light! We actually had a horrible time getting to Paris because of flight issues and were only left with less then 24 hours in the city. The only sighting of the Eiffel Tower was when we took these photos in the morning other than a quick taxi drive by the night before from the airport to our hotel. Sadly that was it! The city is so beautiful! So I am so glad we got to do these and capture this moment before we headed to Italy. I cannot wait to go back and explore Paris with more time to soak in all the beauty!

For this shoot I wanted a really romantic look! Soft and elegant! Once I found my looks I found Scotty’s suit from Banana Republic for our first look and came across the Coat on the second on Zara. Sometimes I’ll just share with him the colors I want and he will shop himself online for his favorite brands to find things that we can get to match. This time he hadn’t found anything so I helped. Most of his suits are all from Banana Republic already so that was an easy one! I used to actually work for them when we first got together so he had lots of clothes from Banana and always loved the fit. The coat was just a lucky google and the perfect one came up! (I really wanted a velvet one but he quickly shot that down hahah!)

Photos below by:

Our outfits are old from: Revolve Clothing & Zara (I will link similar looks below)

Other Photoshoot Ideas:

Charleston Couples Photoshoot

Morro Bay, CA Couples Photoshoot

Charleston, South Carolina City Guide

We just got back from our southern style vacation and I quickly already find myself looking up real estate prices in Charleston! Its definitely a new favorite for me and Scotty with all its history, classic charm, and amazing eats! So lets break down where we stayed, ate, and show you all the fun activities we did! I hope when you visit you fall in love with this place just as much as we did!

Where we stayed:

Hotel Emeline

The cutest boutique hotel perfectly positioned in the middle of downtown Charleston. This great stay added to the love I have for this city. It had the classic architecture, the cutest rooms, lobby, coffee shop and restaurant! This hotel had everything you need and MORE! Highly recommend staying here for the great location alone. We walked everywhere downtown and didn’t need our car until we went to dinner at Sullivan’s Island and toured the town’s plantations. Be sure when you book this place you also get a reservation at their own restaurant Frannie and the Fox !(i'‘ll share more in restaurants recs!!) To book your stay head over to their website -here-.

Where to eat: (in order of how we ate it)

Leon’s Oyster Shop - This renovated old gas station was the most requested place to eat in all my online research. Also a great hangout place to grab a drink on a Sunday Fun day! If you love many different types of oysters, then this is your place! We don’t eat oysters often but had them because its the #1 food item recommended..and when in Rome?? What we ordered: Char-Grilled Oysters, Fried Chicken and Smoked Mahi Dip.

The Obstinate Daughter - A must when you cross the bridge into Sullivan’s Island jut outside of Charleston. We made the pretty drive over the water after our photos on night one! Was also highly recommended on my research and was one of our photographers favorites. Highly recommend getting a reservation before because this place gets packed. Being this was a last minute trip I was a little late but checked the day before to see if they had cancellations and was lucky enough to be able to get in. What we ordered: Roasted Beets (AMAZING!), Ricotta Gnocchi (best Gnocchi I have had with short ribs on top!), Five Fathom Hole Pizza.

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits - Perfect place to grab a quick breakfast! We got them from the downtown location by our hotel after our morning walk around town. So many options and all made fresh in house! We ordered one of almost every biscuit with different jams and the classic southern pimento cheese spread (which was my favorite!)

For 15% off your order at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits online use code “AMANDA15”

5Church Charleston - WOW! This location is beyond gorgeous (on Market street). It’s literally a completely renovated beautiful old Church with so much gorgeous detail. HIGHLY recommend getting reservations here it was packed! Brunch, Lunch and Dinner are all offered here with a full bar! What we ordered: Daily Charcuterie, Spring Salad, Handmade Braided Ravioli (SO DARN GOOD!), 9oz Filet, and Cronuts (YUM!). Not sure they have anything bad on the menu after this spread.. it was all so good!!

Frannie and the Fox - this was our hotel restaurant and a top pick online too! If you are looking for somewhere to have breakfast… do yourself a favor and get the pancakes.. not sure if its overly dramatic to say but these were the best pancakes I had ever had! So good that I was telling Scotty the next day I wanted to stop trying other places and just have pancakes again!!

Millers All Day - Last but certainly not least! Such an adorable place to grab breakfast or lunch and oh so delicious!! Highly recommend making reservations! A perfect place to go when shopping up and down the famous King Street! What we ate: pimento cheese plate, millers smash burger (must get!!), Club, homefries, and of course coconut cream pie!

What we did:

Photoshoot - This probably wont be the top of your list.. but as a blogger content photos are important, plus its just so fun to have photos taken when your in a new town that you can use for Christmas cards and to look back on! I highly recommend Rebecca see her work -here-. Having an amazing photographer is also a great way to learn more about the city and little spots you may never normally see. She was basically the best tour guide and photographer.

Plantations - Highly recommend doing multiple plantations on your visit! The important history of plantations is so interesting and of course unique to the South and in particular this part of the country. These amazing properties are quite the thing to see. The plantations are all outside of the downtown area so you’re going to be in your car driving, so we also went to..

Magnolia plantation and gardens - lots of greenery and garden areas to walk around and see.

Middleton place - a large running farm with animals and areas with people working and ready to talk to you about their craft and the plantation/history itself.

Boone Hall Plantation - Large area, you can go into the main house, they have a restaurant and lots of information/videos going to learn more about it history.

Mcleod Plantation - A last minute plantation visit out of town. Lots of area to walk and see but not much else. Would recommend this only if you are looking for more to do. The top 3 are our favorites.

Morning Walks - The best part of vacations is exploring! We did this in our morning walks and saw the town before the tourists were up and all around. We walked to the pineapple fountain, rainbow row, waterfront park and high battery park.

Thank you for tagging along and exploring the world with us! We love sharing our travels and hope to help you experience the world more beautifully. Let me know if you go to any of our recommendations and how you enjoyed them!

XoXo, Amanda

Savannah, Georgia City Guide

We were so excited we got the chance to visit Savannah on our recent trip to Georgia! Driving up the coastline from Charleston made Savannah our 3rd stop on our getaway but the 1st stop in the Peach state! There was more than enough charm, history, culture, and live music to see but we took it pretty easy here and enjoyed the beauty of our hotel along the river front area! Here’s where we stayed, ate and played in the 48 hrs we were in Savannah!

Where we stayed:

River Street Inn - a 200 year hotel located on River Street. Its been remodeled and updated but still has all the beauty and charm that the long history has provided it with! The building was originally constructed to serve the needs of the cotton industry and gives you access to both sides of River Street. River street makes for a perfect waterfront stroll with great views of the towns famous Ferry boats along with massive cargo ships and recreational boats. Along with the great views the street walk is full of great restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Where we ate:

Little Duck Diner - A cute spot right in the heart in the heart of downtown serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. What we ordered: Little Duck in Paris (French toast meal), Chicken and Waffles, Lavender Bubble Bath Bellini (so delicious and comes with a rubber ducky perfect for a cute pic!)

The Olde Pink House - Far and away the #1 recommended place online to eat and for good reason! It was an amazing experience with great food and beauty! HIGHLY recommend getting a reservation over 2 months ahead of time! We planned this trip 2 weeks before and couldn’t get one. However if you arrive at 4:45 they can put you on a wait list to eat in the Tavern or Bar. We arrived at 4:20 because I reallllly wanted to make sure we could get in. We wanted to eat in the Tavern basement because it gives you more of an experience. They only let the first 8 people in line in and then you wait on a list for openings the rest of the night. Luckily we were #3 and #4 so we got in at 5 and had a lovely meal! After we ate we got to walk upstairs to see the rest of the renovated old mansion where you needed reservations for and in my opinion the Tavern basement was even better then upstairs inside! They did have seating at tables too in the Tavern so if you make a reservation maybe recommend the Tavern. What we ordered: Pink Lady, Mac & Cheese Jalapeno Poppers, “BLT” Salad (One of the best salads and featured on tv show The best thing I ever ate), Caramelized Vidalia Onion & Sweet Potato Ravioli, Grilled Port Tenderloin, and of course dessert the basket (which was AMAZING and you have to order and send me a picture because OMG!!!)

Collins Quarter - 2 locations in Savannah with one downtown and one in the middle of the famous Forsyth park that is gorgeous! We ate at the park location and took in the views on a great walk after brunch. What we ate: Pork Belly Beni, Park Brisket Burger (another great burger!), Duchess of Cambridge (yummy cocktail!)

Savannah’s Candy Kitchen -

they have a location on River street! So many goodies but do not forget to get the gopher! It’s so good that we even brought some home to enjoy!

What we did:

Savannah is a little more spread out so if you are wanting to see more of the historical sites I would suggest doing a hop on hop off city tour or having a car to see more.

Savannah Banana’s - A local minor league baseball team that is all over ESPN and YouTube for the comical show they put on while playing ball! Legends such as Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Hank Aaron, Ty Cobb and Jackie Robinson all played on this field in their early days!

Cathedral Basilica of St. John The Baptist - The first building in Georgia of brick and 81 stained glass windows and. Constructed in 1834 it is absolutely beautiful and open to the public. They do have daily Mass and the schedule is on their website.

River Street - Walking down river street is an experience! Lots of shops, restaurants and places to grab a drink while you walk (because you can drink in public on the streets in Savannah!).

Thanks for tagging along on our Savannah adventure. Let us know below where we should head to next!

Xo, Amanda

My Favorite White Cake Recipe

So deliciously moist, soft and full of creamy flavor! My favorite white cake to make for everyone’s birthdays!! Super easy to make it your own by also changing the filling to any jam, peanut butter, nutella, cream or anything else to add a different flavor for your party! Another way to add flavor is change the vanilla extract to lemon, orange, or almond. Just a few ways to mix it up BUT its so good just the way it is! Sure to be a crowd pleaser at your next celebration!

Ingredients:

3 large eggs

3 large egg whites

1 cup heavy cream

2 tbsp. melted butter

3 tsp. vanilla

1 - 1/2 cup sugar

2-1/4 cups cake flour

1 tbsp. baking powder

3/4 tsp salt

1 cup grated butter

Frosting:

1 cup butter

8 oz cream cheese

4 cups powdered sugar

1 tbsp. heavy cream

1 tsp. vanilla

Instructions:

1. Prep by oiling 2 circle pans (8 or 9 inch) and preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Blend together eggs, heavy cream, melted butter, and vanilla completely.

3. Add dry ingredients in a different bowl until combined.

4. Grate 1 cup of butter on top of dry ingredients. Combined by hand until butter is no larger then pea sizes.

5. Next up add in wet ingredients and blend together with hand mixer.

6. Once combined put into 2 pans that are oiled and put into oven. 22-27 min, if you want a 4 layer cake do 4 pans t 10-12 min only.

7. Blend together all frosting ingredients until well combined. (butter and cream cheese should be room temp if not heat in microwave for 30 sec at a time) You can add more heavy cream or powdered sugar depending on desired consistency. I sometimes also double the recipe to a thick layer on the outside.

8. Once cake is done baking let cool in pan for 15 min and transfer to cooling rack for another 15.

9. Ice layers of cake and do a thin later around for a “crumb layer” that will catch all the crumbs and make a base for the final layer. Place in fridge for 30 min and then do another final layer. Smooth, textured, whatever you desire!

10. Enjoy!

Discovering the Magic of Carmel, CA: A Weekend Getaway at California's Coastal Paradise

Carmel, California is a charming and quaint coastal town that's perfect for a lovely weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or an amazing golf trip, Carmel has something special for everyone. From its beautiful beaches and lush natural reserve to its galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and famous golf courses there’s no shortage of activities and attractions to explore. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or a full-on adventure, Carmel is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Here are some of the best things to do in Carmel, California!

Located along the Central Coast of California, Carmel is known for its stunningly beautiful landscape, white sand beaches, world-class golf courses, art galleries, and fine-dining restaurants. To make the most of your weekend in Carmel, it’s best to plan ahead and book accommodations well in advance. The town can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so make sure to have your reservations set. It’s also a good idea to rent a car or bring your own vehicle to get around, as the town is quite spread out with so much to do in town along with many amazing day trips located just outside of town such as Monterey or Big Sur. Be sure to check out some of the local shops and galleries, as well as taking in the beauty of nature with the many outdoor activities available including hiking, biking, and surfing. Don’t miss out on the historical sites, such as the Carmel Mission and the Tor House, both of which are worth a visit. A weekend in Carmel, California is sure to be a memorable, upscale experience. With its stunning landscape, world-class golf courses, art galleries, and fine-dining restaurants, it's no secret this is many people's choice as the most beautiful spot in the country.

For most trips I plan my outfits out according to the town. Carmel is casual chic with lots of charm. I shopped on Revolve before we left (which I do for almost all our trips). I love how everything ships out so fast and you always get free shipping and returns. They have all the brands I love in a one stop shop! Linking all my outfits that are in stock and similar looks for your trip to Carmel.

The Best Things to Do In Carmel-by-the-sea

Carmel, California is a picturesque coastal town that is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this idyllic location.

Stroll along Carmel Beach

Spend a weekend in the picturesque coastal town of Carmel, California and take in the stunning beauty of the West Coast and the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy breathtaking views as you take a leisurely stroll along the two-mile stretch of Carmel Beach. Feel the sand between your toes as you listen to the soothing sounds of the waves crashing on the shore. Take a dip in the cool ocean waters or just relax on the beach while soaking up the sun. Be sure to take pictures of the iconic rocky cliffs that are dotted along the shoreline. You may even be lucky enough to spot some of the local wildlife such as sea otters, seals, and birds that frequent the beach. A weekend in Carmel, California is sure to be a relaxing and unforgettable experience.

Visit Carmel Mission

Start your weekend off right with a visit to the Carmel Mission Basilica, built in 1771. This beautiful and important piece of California history is a must-see. During your trip, you can take some time to explore the mission's gardens, chapels, and museum. Not to be missed is the mission's oldest library in California, with books dating back to the 18th century. You can also attend one of the daily Masses held in the Chapel or take some time to admire the beautiful artwork that adorns the walls of the mission. Spend a few hours exploring the mission grounds and learning about its rich history. Carmel Mission is a truly unique experience and one that you won't soon forget.

Go Hiking at Carmel River State Beach

The Carmel River State Beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush green forests of the Santa Lucia Mountains. There are miles of trails to explore, so you can take your time while soaking in the scenery. Don't forget to bring your camera, as there are plenty of opportunities to take some unforgettable photos. The beach is a great place to observe the diverse wildlife inhabiting the area. From the endangered Southern Sea Otter to various seabirds and shorebirds, there is plenty to see and learn. Have a picnic on the beach and enjoy your time in nature. It is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Enjoy Wine Tasting

Taste some award-winning wines at one of Carmel's numerous wineries, such as Caraccioli Cellars or Georis Winery, and savor the spectacular views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Learn about the rich history of winemaking in the region with a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the area and its wines. After your tour, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the many nearby vineyards. Whether you want to explore the wineries on your own or take part in a guided tour, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the best of Carmel's wine culture.

Window Shopping the Art Galleries

Spend a day admiring the beautiful works of art in the local galleries of Carmel. Take a stroll through the Carmel Art Association to browse their collection of artwork from local and international artists. The Sunset Cultural Center offers a unique selection of contemporary art in its gallery. The Hazelwood Gallery is a must-see for those interested in 19th and 20th-century artwork. For those who prefer sculptures, the Western Attitudes Gallery in Carmel Valley has a wide selection. Finally, the Carmel Visual Arts Gallery is a great place to view its collection of contemporary paintings and sculptures.

Play a Round of Golf at Pebble Beach Golf Links

Start your weekend with a challenging round of golf at the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links. With its spectacular vistas of the Pacific Ocean, this renowned course is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Not a golfer? Just walking around the grounds at Pebble Beach Golf Course, having a delicious meal, or staying at the iconic hotel is a totally life-changing experience in itself.

Take a slow drive down 17 Mile Drive

Cruise along the Pacific Coastline to take in the stunning 17-mile drive, highly regarded as the most beautiful stretch of nature in this great land of ours. It is the perfect harmony of amazing homes and beautiful golf courses nestled along the coastline with the beauty of the ocean and the mountains. This was one of the highlights of our trip. Make a stop at the Spanish Bay for a picnic lunch and take in the picturesque beauty of the Pebble Beach Golf Course. Drive through the enchanting Del Monte Forest and catch a glimpse of the iconic California Sea Otter at the Seal Rock viewpoint. Enjoy the stunning architecture of the famous Carmel Mission and explore the quaint Carmel-by-the-Sea village. With so many sights to see, your weekend in Carmel will be an unforgettable experience.

Point Lobos State Reserve

The short and scenic Bird Island Trail in Point Lobos State Reserve features beautiful views, access to a sandy beach, and lots of birds in season. The park is located along Highway One, just three miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea and just a drive away to see the beauty it has to offer.

What are the best dining options in Carmel California?

La Balena is located in the heart of downtown. This popular seafood spot offers a variety of fresh dishes, from grilled octopus to a wide variety of drinks.

Cantinetta Luca is a perfect stop for delicious homemade Italian cuisine. This cozy eatery is known for its delicious baked lasagna and eggplant parmesan. Treasured family recipes passed down through generations, the menu specialties include a hearty selection of source-verified premium meats, first hand selected then hand-cut on site, a wide array of antipasti including house-cured artisan salume, fresh Californian produce, wood-oven baked pizza, housemade pasta and sauces, and whole roasted fish.

The Forge, formerly known as The Forge in the Forest, has embedded itself into the Arcadian charm of Carmel over the last 46 years. Award-winning garden patios are nestled among the oak and pine trees of downtown Carmel and are made comfortable year-round with fireplaces, heaters and large patio umbrellas.

Basil Seasonal Dining is the perfect choice is perfect if you’re in the mood for something a bit more modern. Savor the ingredients of the mainland of Venice. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the private and secluded patio. 

Dametra Cafe is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with a variety of kebabs, mezes, and other small plates.

Casanova for unforgettable contemporary dishes. French and Italian Cuisines merge with the best quality by embracing and supporting our local small organic farms and fisheries.

Brophys Tavern is right next to The Hotel Carmel and is a perfect spot to enjoy contemporary bar fare.

La Bicyclette is my personal favorite, a cozy atmosphere and family-run restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner. Enjoy handmade pasta dishes and European Country Cuisine meals you will be talking about for years to come. Their wood-fired pizzas are a perfect meal to share and the Champignons pizza with portabella mushrooms and caramelized onion puree is a must-get!

Where to Stay in Carmel for a Weekend Trip

Located on the beautiful Monterey Bay, Carmel offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re looking for luxurious accommodations or outdoor adventures, Carmel has something for everyone and here are a few of the nicest places you can stay, along with what we chose on this trip.

For a more rustic experience, head to Carmel Valley Lodge. This cozy lodge offers spectacular views of the Monterey Valley and is surrounded by hiking trails, golf courses and wineries. Spend the day exploring the area, or soak up the sun by the outdoor pool. Slightly less in price than the other well-known hotel locations below.

Carmel Valley Ranch is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast. This resort offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. After a day of adventure, head to the spa or take a dip in the hot tub.

For a more historic experience, stay at the Carmel Mission Inn. This historic inn is located in the heart of Carmel and is only a short distance away from the beach. Enjoy the inn’s distinctive architecture and take a stroll around the nearby shopping and dining area.

We stayed at the La Playa Hotel. Located a short walk from the beach, this luxurious hotel is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and take advantage of the hotel’s spa and restaurant. Take advantage of recreation opportunities including an outdoor pool and bicycles to rent. Additional features at this hotel include concierge services, wedding services, and a fireplace in the lobby.

Weather in & Packing Tips for Carmel

The weather in Carmel is typically mildly warm and sunny during the Summer months, with temperatures generally in the 70s and 80s. In the Winter, temperatures remain mild, although occasional rain is to be expected. Coastal fog is a common occurrence during the Summer months. When packing for your stay in Carmel, it's important to bring layers to accommodate the changing weather. A light jacket or sweater is a must for the ocean breeze, as well as comfortable walking shoes for exploring the town and nearby beaches. Don't forget your swimwear for the pool and remember, the Pacific Ocean is just a stone's throw away.

Other California Travel Guides:

Paso Robles City Guide

Where to Eat When Visiting Disneyland & California Adventure Park's

Morro Bay Travel Tips

Exploring Lake Tahoe: An Unforgettable City Guide

Yellowstone Road Trip From California

Morro Bay Couples Photos

Every year it’s our tradition to do our annual Christmas Card photos. I love to obsess over them! Outfits, Location, Props.. you name it and I have it all thought out and prepped for the hour long shoot. I have loved doing this ever year since we got married… and that might be why I prepare so well for campaign shoots as well. They’re so fun for me, however I know that is not the case for everyone. So I’m going to share different ideas and shoots we have done in the past and ones we do from here on out. This will help with inspiration, but also for me to have a place to look back at each one we have done!

This first shoot I want to share is from our 2020 pictures with Ellie Koleen. Ellie is such a sweet person and a talented amazing photographer. If you are looking for someone in the California area and beyond (because I know she loves to travel) I highly suggest her!

These were taken in Morro Bay. This year we had purchased a new beach house in Morro Bay and it felt like the perfect time to do a shoot in our new town! I wanted it to be classic, simple and timeless. Which meant to be clean, no colors, no prints just creams, just whites and neutrals only..with maybe a few spots ;)! I also added in a bottle of Champagne mostly so I had some content photos for NYE. The champagne also made a cute element to finish a shoot right out of the ice cold ocean water! This was considered my only “prop” in these photos and I loved the suppleness of it and the one color that pops in those photos!

I hope this gives you a fun idea for your next shoot and let me know below if you want to see more of these! You can also shop our looks and similar styles below:)

Xo, Amanda