Easy Summer Living

 

 

 

Summer is still going strong, and I plan to enjoy the easy summer living lifestyle for as long as I can. I really do enjoy all seasons(okay, maybe winter is not my favorite although I love decorating for the holidays)but summer just has that slower pace vibe about it. We all spend more time outdoors and enjoying the world around us. Summer should be carefree and easy.

 

For the last few years, I have pared down my summer decor with the theme of keeping it easy and breezy. In my entryway, I just swapped out the winter greenery from my blue and white vases with lemons and cherry blossoms. The yellow adds a pop of summery color against the classic blue and white combination. The pineapples also were added for summer. Of course, a little glow must be added. I brought out a rattan hurricane that gives off the perfect summer vibe. A few simple changes and you are welcomed with summer when arriving at our home. My dining room centerpiece stays fresh with the olive trees candles, and greenery. Simple, clean, and easy.

fresh flowers
Fresh from my garden

Nothing says summer like fresh flowers. I love putting together simple floral arrangements for my kitchen. Use any flowers that you have growing in your gardens. I have an abundance of hydrangeas, roses, and black-eyed Susans in my yard and I put them to good use. Keep your hydrangeas fresh by cutting them in the morning, setting them in a bucket of water for a few hours, and dipping the stems in boiling water for a few seconds. It does make them last longer. I love summer floral arrangements because they look better the less arranged they are—a little bit of a wildflower look.

pond
A place to relax and recharge

With all of the flowerbeds in our yard, I spend many hours outdoors. I think that it’s so important to spend a little time outdoors daily. In the evenings you can usually find me out walking. I love all the wildlife that I see on my walks, deer, turtles, bunnies, and dogs(hopefully no snakes).  Our pond is another place that you will find me spending time at. There is just something about the sound of water. Find something that you love and enjoy a little quiet time in nature. It really does soothe the mind and body.

Spending more time outdoors also means we are eating light and quick meals. We spend most nights eating out in the sunroom. For Bob’s birthday and Father’s Day, he treated himself to a Traeger and we have been enjoying trying new recipes. Do you have a favorite summer recipe? I would love a new recipe.

Summer style is all about ease too. Most days you will find me in a comfortable Lilly dress. Perfect for summer. Add a pair of cute sandals and some colorful jewelry and your outfit is complete. It’s all about comfort and enjoying the season!

I hope you take the time to enjoy all that is left of summer.

profileUntil next week,
Carrie

June Favorites

june favorites

June has been a busy busy month. I attended the Pink Retreat in Palm Beach again this year. It just gets better and better each year. Catching up with friends, it’s always a great time. We pick up right where we left off, those friendships are priceless. We have been busy keeping up in the gardens with summer in full swing. I don’t know about you but we have had no rain here in weeks. With lots of water and care, the plants are hanging in there. June was a mix of all sorts of favorites. I hope you enjoy it!

My new issue of Bella Grace arrived and I enjoy reading a bit of it every night before bed. It’s uplifting and unlike any other magazine that I have read. This is a magazine that I take my time reading. Bella Grace encourages you to find magic in the ordinary and that everything is special. The photography and stories are beautiful and so well written. There are also worksheets for you to complete to get the most out of this magazine. It has become my favorite treat!

bella grace magazine
For inspiration and beauty

Have you ever been at the airport desperately searching for your luggage? I don’t anymore. I treated myself to a brightly colored suitcase. Trust me, you can’t miss it. I ordered mine on Amazon. Marshalls has a nice selection of bright bags too.  A colorful luggage tag from Lilly Pulitzer makes identification easier too. Who wants to spend time looking for luggage? Not me, I’m ready to get my vacation started.

colorful luggage
You can spot my bags

I make sure to always have a hat with me if I’m traveling somewhere warm. How fun is this hat that I picked up a few years ago? Unfortunately, it is not available anymore but there are great options at all of the stores. I make sure to look stylish and comfortable on travel day. Normally I will wear a comfortable Lilly dress, a sweater over my shoulders(those planes can get so cold), and comfortable sneakers for walking the airports.

monogram hat
Easy travel style

I switch my scents each season and my go-to summer fragrance is Beach by Bobbi Brown. It smells exactly like it sounds, the beach. I can’t get enough of it. It pairs nicely with At The Beach from Bath and Body Works too. I use the wash and lotion from there.

beach by bobbi brown
A go-to summer scent

I change my front door wreath each season to reflect the time of year. A plain wreath can be dressed up and changed out all year long. Adding a ribbon for the 4th of July or any holiday gives it a fresh look. A guest will get the feel and vibe of your home from the front porch and door decor. Make it welcoming.

summer wreath
Welcome guests with a wreath

I hope you find time to enjoy the great that summer has to offer. It is going to go by so fast.

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

 

 

 

Shop my favorites HERE:

Bella Grace

Amazon Luggage

Beach by Bobbi Brown

 

 

Easy Spring Style

Spring is here and it’s time to ditch the heavy layers, dark colors, and big boots. Spring style is all about lighter layers, pastel colors, and sandals. I know that I am ready for all of this after the long winter. Spring means fresh, airy, and simple.

Pastel colors are the colors of the season. Is there anything prettier than a beautiful shade of light pink, canary blue, or mint green? These colors say spring is here. Look to the colors of the season for inspiration.

White and pastel jeans will always be a favorite of mine even before Labor Day. Does the no white before Labor Day rule even exist anymore? It doesn’t for me. Pair white jeans with a tunic and gold sandals for an easy spring look. My favorite white jeans are from Lilly Pulitzer and have a little extra rope detail along the side. Old Navy also makes great white jeans. Jeans in pastel colors are a great way to dress up any outfit. Lilly Pulitzer jeans are my favorite. Pair pastel jeans with a coordinating button-down shirt for a look that can go from lunch to the office.

A great jean jacket is a must for the spring season. I own a few different ones from casual to dressy. A favorite is a jacket with a monogram. Everything looks better with a monogram. A jean jacket looks perfect over a sundress or t-shirt. I carry one everywhere because I am always cold inside places. Try a jean jacket in white, another favorite of mine, or a pastel spring color.

Sundresses are my go-to all spring and summer too. Throw a sundress on, add a cute pair of sandals and jewelry and you have instant style. My favorite sundresses are from Lilly Pulitzer and I have so many in my collection. I usually add a few to my wardrobe each season and I get my use out of them.

Spring means it’s time to have fun with accessories too. I love colorful Tory Burch sandals to pair with my spring styles. Jewelry can be fun and playful. I love my acrylic monograms from Molly B Originals and have them from mini to large. Stacks of bracelets in colorful colors and mixed metals are a must now that we are wearing short sleeves again.

These are just a few of my favorite ways to style and update my wardrobe for spring. A few new pieces and swaps will have you ready for the warm weather and sunshine in no time. Enjoy!

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

 

February 2023 Favorites

february favorites

Can you believe that March is here? Soon the flowers will be blooming and the weather will slowly start to warm up. I am really looking forward to warmer weather and sunshine. I am ready to start working in the gardens! February was a short but busy month. I tried new skincare that I am loving, found a new accessory line, and so much more. Here are five of my favorites from February.

farmhouse fresh, february favorites
Incredible skincare

I’m getting to the end of my Theorem skincare supply and I have been checking out a few new lines. FarmHouse Fresh has blown me away with incredible results after just a couple of weeks. I am still using products from Beauty Pie as well, and their products have worked wonders too. I’m trying to eliminate as many toxins from my products as I can and FarmHouse Fresh is free of parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and fragrance phthalates. The products are also made in the USA using up to 100% natural ingredients that are grown on their farm, how cool is that? The company is also women-owned and the profits are used to help abused animals rescued and living at their Farm Animal Sanctuary(which I love so much and support). I started with just a couple of products and could not believe how fresh and clear my skin looked and I quickly ordered more. I rarely wear much makeup and prefer my ByTerry CC serum and Ilia serum instead of foundation. You can also set up a video chat with one of their specialists and discuss which products are right for you and tons of samples are included with every order. I will do a full blog on my routine soon too but if I had to pick one product to start with it, the Wine Down serum would be it, it’s amazing.

mackenzie childs lotion, february favorites
For soft hands

Another favorite from the beauty range is this Lavender Fields hand lotion from Mackenzie-Childs. Mackenzie-Childs is so much more than just home decor. The bottle is beautiful on my bedside table and the scent is light and fresh. My hands have been so incredibly dry this winter and this lotion is saving the day. Applying a generous amount of this on my hands is my very last step at night before bed.

bella grace magazine, february favorites
An inspirational and beautiful magazine

I was at Michael’s looking for some craft supplies when I came across this magazine, Bella Grace. The cover was beautiful and it stopped me in my tracks. I flipped through it but did not buy it. I ended up going back the next day to pick it up. It is one of those magazines that is meant to be read over time. Their belief is that an ordinary life can be extraordinary, there is beauty in imperfection, and that magic can be found in the everyday. I love this and I have been enjoying reading a bit of this daily. I have to stop myself from reading all of it at once.

lobe love, february favorites
Beautiful accessories

A few weeks ago I went to a Galentine’s Day event filled with vendors and shopping. I came across Lobe Love and their beautiful headbands and I was hooked. I picked up a couple of headbands and they are so comfortable to wear. With my hair longer I am always looking for cute accessories to add to my collection. The owner and her daughter were so sweet and I enjoyed chatting with them too.

lilly pulitzer scarf, february favorites
An easy accessory

You know that I love, love, love my Lilly Pulitzer scarves. A scarf is a quick way to add style and color to an outfit while also being practical. I tend to get cold inside places and having a scarf with me makes for an easy shawl. This one happened to be in the same print as the pants that I was wearing that day too. Lilly scarves are an accessory that I can’t live without.

A variety of fun favorites this month. March looks to be a fun month with Spring Training baseball, St. Patrick’s Day, and time spent outdoors.

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

Shop my favorites below:

FarmHouse Fresh

Mackenzie-Childs Lavender Fields Lotion

Bella Grace Magazine

Lobe Love

Lilly Pulitzer Scarves

The Pink Retreat 2022

the pink retreat

Finally, The Pink Retreat in Palm Beach was back on this year! It had been canceled for the last 2 years due to the pandemic, and I missed it for one. 500 Lilly Pulitzer-loving ladies descending on Palm Beach, we are really quite the sight. The event runs Thursday through Sunday but I always come in a day ahead and stay a day later. This gives me time to relax and visit a few shops before the weekend kicks off. The event is put on by Tosha Davis Williams, a Lilly lover who had the vision to bring Lilly lovers together for a weekend of celebration and friendship. The 1st event was in 2018 and I attended it in 2019. It was so nice to reconnect with friends that I had met and stayed in touch with. I also met and connected with so many friends too, even one from my hometown.

the brazilian court
The Brazilian Court

The first year I stayed and The Colony but for the last two years, I have stayed at The Brazilian Court. It is a beautiful resort and in each room you feel like you are in your own private resort. We are spread out at different hotels throughout Palm Beach and West Palm.

There are so many different activities to pick and choose from. Your registration includes a swag bag, shopping parties at Lilly Pulitzer, happy hour events, and a farewell gathering. I like that you can pick your activities or choose to just relax. There are paint events, wine tasting, yoga, and tea to choose from. The only extras I did were tea and yoga, and it rained so much that I skipped the outdoor yoga. I do space my events out just to have time to explore and enjoy the pool. The pool in The Brazilian Court is lovely and was the perfect spot to spend my last day there relaxing.

The event begins with check-in at The Colony. The first day is a welcome/shopping party hosted by Lilly Pulitzer. They always have champagne and little surprises for the group. I created a custom shift dress(the Palm Beach store is the only one to offer this service). I can’t wait to get it. My friends and I enjoyed lunch at Taboo after shopping.

 

the pink retreat
Welcome Happy Hour
the pink retreat
With Tosha, the founder of TPR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

That evening, Happy Hour was held at the Garden Pavillion. A beautiful indoor/outdoor space in the heart of downtown. It was a sea of Lilly and we enjoyed cocktails, food, and friendship. Lilly Pulitzer gave away a custom shift and bag too. This area is lovely with live music and plenty of restaurants to walk to for dinner or drinks. Our group went back to the island and had dinner at The Leopard Lounge in The Chesterfield. The Chesterfield is a British-inspired hotel and has quite the nightlife.

rick rose
Walking tour of Palm Beach
rick rose
With Rick Rose

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

the breakers
The Breakers at night

Friday started out with a walking tour from Rick Rose. If you ever get the opportunity to take one of his tours, I highly recommend it. He is the authority on all things Palm Beach. I never get tired of his tours and always learn something new. We kept the afternoon free to browse and wander all of the little shops and areas on Palm Beach. Friday evening is Girls Night with nothing planned. A few of us went to The Breakers for dinner and drinks. The Breakers is historical and incredible and it is always a fun evening.

flagler museum
Tea at the Flagler Museum
flagler museum
A sea of Lilly

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

national croquet club
The Pink Party

national croquet club

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday was my favorite event of all, Tea at the Flagler Museum. The entire experience was amazing. Our waiter was so fun. and even photo bombed us too. We did the audio tour of the museum and learned more about the Flagler family and their time in Palm Beach. The house was exactly what you would expect from old Palm Beach. I even picked up a few little mementos too. Saturday evening, the National Croquet Club hosted our Pink Party event. What a beautiful venue. The champagne was flowing, the food was delicious, and the music was so fun. An electric violinist was playing all night. Palm Beach Sandals hosted a pop-up and I picked up a new pair from of sandals from Brittany. I love her custom sandals. After the party, we headed back to The Brazilian Court and stayed in the lounge. It was also raining like crazy.

Sunday was the Farewell Party. I did not go this year. I spent the day relaxing in the pool. My friend and I stayed an extra day so we enjoyed walking around Palm Beach and down to the Clock Tower after our pool day. Our night ended with dinner and drinks at The Breakers.

I am already looking forward to next year. Where I live there are very few Lilly lovers like me so being able to get together with this group means so much. I have made friends with people from all over the country and I love catching up with them in my travels. The Pink Retreat really is a special event. Lilly Pulitzer would be proud.

If you would like to learn more about The Pink Retreat click HERE.

Until next week,

Carrie

 

June Favorites

june favorites

Can you believe July is almost here? Summer always goes by way too fast. June was a busy month with my trip to Palm Beach, the announcement of Initial Outfitters closing, and the exciting new adventure with Longaberger. Becoming a Longaberger stylist is such a natural fit for me, and I am so excited for the future. I really do live the Longaberger lifestyle. Check out all that Longaberger has to offer HERE.  I think it just might surprise you! Anyway, let’s get into June favorites. A little beauty, travel, fashion, and more.

the brazilian court hotel, palm beach
A luxurious retreat

The Brazilian Court Hotel Palm Beach. This was not my first stay here. It is my go-to hotel in Palm Beach. I prefer to stay on the island and this boutique hotel is the perfect place. The hotel is designed to make each room feel like you are in your own little villa in the tropics. Each room is also spacious with a luxurious bath complete with a soaking tub. The pool is quiet and relaxing and a great place to spend an afternoon. The staff is always helpful and gracious. They even came to remove a lizard from my friend’s room. The lounge is always a fun place to spend an evening, and you just never know who you will meet there. I have met some very interesting people that I have stayed in touch with since. I highly recommend this resort.

scalp massager
A treat for your scalp

I can’t believe that I have never used a scalp massager before. I love it. You know that feeling you get at the salon when your stylist gives you a wonderful scalp massage, this product will do that too. I start by adding a little shampoo to my hair and work it in with this. It helps deep clean and encourages hair growth. Here is a scalp massager that I found on Amazon that I have been using. Have you ever tried one?

home chef
Try something new with Home Chef

Do you sometimes struggle with what to cook for dinner every night? We sometimes do, and I started looking at meal services. We have been using Home Chef for about 6 weeks now. We are really enjoying trying some new recipes and I feel like there is less waste. Everything comes portioned out. I also think we are eating a little less with the smaller portions. Cooking for 2 can be hard and Home Chef is making it easy. We are doing 2 meals a week and still usually have leftovers too. I’m also finding that I am spending less at the market too. If you are interested in trying it out I have a few $35 gift cards available. Send me a message here, and I will get one out to you!

longaberger boardwalk basket
Love this huge basket

A giant pink basket. Yes, it was something I had to have. I can’t believe the size of this Boardwalk Basket from Longaberger, and I know that I am going to be using this basket all of the time. How cute to take to the beach or out running errands. Right now I have it sitting on a cute ottoman with some crafting supplies in it.

lilly pulitzer
A fun outfit for the 4th

I always wear something patriotic for the 4th. Lilly Pulitzer always does a patriotic print with their spin. This one is one of my favorites. With just a hint of pink it is still very patriotic and something a little different. I’m wearing this outfit to our neighborhood July 3rd party.

I hope you enjoyed this month’s favorites. Stay tuned for a Pink Retreat recap and a guide to my favorite things in Palm Beach. I hope you have a wonderful, happy, and safe 4th of July.

Until next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary decorating guide and stay in touch when you sign up for my newsletter HERE. I share my favorite recipes, decor, travel, gardening, tips, and so much more!

4th of July Decor & Style

I love the 4th of July. I know, I know that means summer is half over, but it is such a special day. The town where my husband grew up and that we lived in when we were first married always puts on a fantastic parade. We see all of our old friends, bringing back so many happy memories. This year, our street is having a block party complete with fireworks(don’t tell anybody). Poor Ruby Sue, she will definitely need her medicine that night.

I decided to keep my dining room and decor simple this year. I have a collection of patriotic baskets from Longaberger and I thought that they would look nice on the dining room table. I wanted to keep my lemon and blue decor and the baskets were a nice compliment. The glass bottles were a great find at DollarTree years ago, and the simple addition of flags takes them up a notch. Garlands were the finishing touch.

4th of july dining table decor
Simple and classic

 

4th of july dining table decor
I simply add to the existing decor

My fireplace area always is draped in patriotic bunting. Simple and classic. I added a USA set of letters, floral picks, glass bottles, and candle holders. I kept this simple as well.

4th of july dining table decor
I love patriotic bunting

The entry is fun with the fireworks decor. The wooden flag I painted a few years ago and this year I decided to let it stand on its own. I sprinkled a little more decor throughout the house, but these are the key areas that I try to focus on. This week will be outdoor decorating.

4th of july decor
A few fun pieces for the entryway

Lilly Pulitzer is a timeless American brand, and I love that they come ut with a new patriotic pattern every year with their colorful spin. This dress is from the newest collection. I paired it with an acrylic monogrammed star necklace.

lilly pulitzer
Fun take on a patriotic theme

I liked this print so much that I also bought the matching skort and top. Wear them together and you have what we call a Lilly tuxedo. This will be my outfit for our neighborhood party and parade. For a casual event, I paired a patriotic monogrammed tank with a pair of Lilly shorts from seasons ago. Add a pair of white keds to any of these outfits and you are ready for the 4th.

lilly pulitzer
A Lilly tuxedo

 

4th of july style
Casual look

I hope you enjoy celebrating the holiday with family and friends!

Until next week,

Carrie

5 Things I’m Loving, April 2022

Can you believe April is already here? It seems like just yesterday we were decorating for the holidays. We have had a nice Winter/Spring in Arizona. Finally, baseball is back and we have been able to enjoy a few games. Friends from home came to visit and we enjoyed showing them a few of our favorite places to visit in AZ. I have a friend arriving today for a few days, and I am looking forward to a little girl time. We are going to shop, enjoy tea, and catch up. It’s going to be a fun week. We will be heading home in the next few weeks too. But, it’s the first of the month so that means that it is time to share 5 of my favorites for April. There is a little fashion, beauty, scents, and more. Enjoy!

I was so excited about the Lilly Pulitzer/Disney collaboration. How cute is this print with Mickey and Minnie in it? I picked up a few pieces from the collection, a pair of shorts, a popover, a backpack, and this adorable dress. On my next trip to Disney, I will be all set with my Lilly!

lilly pulitzer & disney
Lilly & Disney, a fun collaboration

Since we are on the topic of fashion, this hello weekend tote from Initial Outfitters was a piece that I could not resist. The design of the bag is perfect for summer and who doesn’t love the weekend? I am sure this bag will get a ton of use and will be perfect for travel. It’s roomy and functional.

hello weekend jute tote
Ready for the weekend with this cute tote

If you know me, you know that I am always looking for the best in makeup and skincare. Seint beauty has been my go-to for the last few months. The skincare routine is simple (some lines have sooo many products, it takes forever to get ready), a few products complete the line. I do sometimes add a serum from Estee Lauder, and I use a daytime moisturizer too. The cream is too heavy for me during the day, but at night, it’s incredible. The makeup concept is right up my alley. You customize your own palette with your favorite products. It is so nice not to be wasting colors out of a premade palette. There is even a solid perfume too. These are going to be fabulous for travel. I try to pack as little product as possible. This is a palette I customized for Spring/Summer. What do you think of the colors?

seint beauty
Perfect Seint palette for Summer

It wouldn’t be a favorites if I did not have a favorite scent to share. Voluspa Casa Pacifica is a new fragrance to me. I found it an Anthropologie and it was such a unique scent, I knew that I had to add it to my collection. Voluspa jars are also so beautiful and are perfect to reuse for makeup brushes or to store hair ties. Casa Pacifica has notes of California driftwood, sea salt, and shore brush. It is probably more of a summer scent, but I plan on burning it all Spring too. Very fresh.

anthropologie candle
Fresh Spring scents

Last, but certainly not least, the Desert Botanical Gardens. If you are ever in the Phoenix area, it is one place that I suggest you don’t miss. The desert is so much more than cacti, dirt, and rocks. I think you would be very surprised. My friends really enjoyed it. Dale Chihuly also had an installation at the time we visited. If you are familiar with his work, it is breathtaking, and seeing it in a garden setting is incredible. Stay tuned for a blog full of fabulous pictures from the gardens.

desert botanical gardens
Desert Botanical Gardens

And that’s it, another month of favorites. Is there anything new that you are loving? Wishing you and your family a Happy Easter or Passover, and I hope you get to spend time with your loved ones.

Until next week,

Carrie

Shop my favorites here:

Lilly & Disney (hopefully more pieces will be released, it is sold out right now)

Hello Weekend Jute Tote

Seint Beauty

Voluspa Casa Pacifica

Desert Botanical Gardens

Carrie Kelly is an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Theorem Independent Hair Specialist helping everyone have the best hair day ever and Personal Stylist with Carrie Kelly Boutique, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

5 Things I’m Loving, March 2022

5 things i'm loving march 2022

Can you believe March is here already? It feels like we were just celebrating the holidays. I always look forward to march, plants start blooming and Spring is in the air. Spring has arrived in Arizona. My plants are starting to bloom and the days are sunny and warm. Just what I love. Friends are coming to visit and St.Patrick’s Day will be here soon too. March is going to be a great month. As always, It’s the first blog of the month so I am sharing a few of my favorites. Beauty and fashion are front and center this month. Enjoy!

monogrammed jean jacket
A classic style

A jean jacket is a staple in my wardrobe, and a monogrammed one is even better. I am one of those people that is always cold inside places. Doesn’t it seem like stores and restaurants are extra chilly? Initial Outfitters hit it out of the park with this monogrammed jean jacket. I have been wearing it constantly. It’s perfect to throw over a sundress or tee.

lilly pulitzer dress
Spring has sprung

While we are on the subject of fashion, the denim jean jacket would look fantastic with any Lilly Pulitzer dress. This print and dress are a new favorite. The colors just say Spring and I will be adding it to my collection soon. Lilly dresses are just so easy for Spring and summer. Add a cute pair of sandals, some great accessories, and done! What could be easier?

flamingo st patrick's day shirt
Fun for St. Pat’s Day

Last on the fashion wheel is a fun St. Patrick’s Day tee. Who doesn’t need a flamingo St. Patrick’s Day shirt? I saw this on Amazon and knew it was my shirt for this year. We always dress for each holiday at yoga so I will be wearing this with my shamrock leggings. Perfect!

theorem density
The best conditioning mask

In the beauty world theorem Density conditioning treatment mask is transforming my hair. I use this every 3rd wash and my hair is soft, full, shiny, and frizz-free. It really is a miracle product and one that I can’t live without. I have been using only theorem the last month and my hair shows the results. I have never had this much shine, body, and volume.

Last but not least, another favorite from Bath and Body Works. They keep coming out with scents that I can’t resist. Bubbly Rose has been a favorite this winter. Who doesn’t love a light champagne scent? With Spring here I will be changing to a lighter scent but this one is a keeper.

bath and body works bubbly rose
A fantastic scent

These are just a few of my favorites for March. I am an affiliate for Initial Outfitters and theorem and do earn a commission for their products. I am ready to enjoy March, the outdoors, and some beautiful Spring weather. I hope you are too!

Shop my favorites HERE.

Initial Outfitters

Lilly Pulitzer

St. Patrick’s Day Shirt

Theorem Density Conditioning Treatment Mask

Bath & Body Works Bubbly Rose

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Theorem Independent Hair Specialist helping everyone have the best hair day ever and Personal Stylist with Carrie Kelly Initial Outfitters Boutique, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

 

Quick Travel Packing Tips

travel tips

It seems like travel is back again, and I am so happy about that. As much as I love being at my cozy home, I enjoy a great trip. This year I am heading to Palm Beach for The Pink Retreat, A Lilly Pulitzer get-together. It’s going to be an amazing trip as always. I am also hoping to get to Disney for the 50th-anniversary celebration. Sometimes packing can really feel like a chore. I used to be such a heavy packer and would take as much as the airlines would allow. Not anymore, I like to travel light especially since I travel alone sometimes. These are just a few of my favorite packing tips that make my life so much easier.

I always start with a list of activities, events, and things I am planning to do each day. Make sure to check the weather report too! I’ll lay out the outfits for each day with accessories, shoes, and bags and write each outfit down and the day I plan on wearing it. I always try to duplicate the accessories, bags, and shoes. It may seem like so much work but I know about how many dressy and casual outfits I need.

travel tips
A list makes packing easier

A few basics that I always pack are a white denim jacket and a neutral-colored cardigan. It seems like everywhere you go, it’s cold inside. Shoes and purses get bulky and heavy too. I always pack a pair of cute tennis if I am going to do a lot of walking, gold flat sandals, gold wedge sandals, and pool sandals. Golds will go with everything. The same goes for bags, I usually pack a gold crossbody, gold tote, gold clutch, and a small sling. The bags all fit into the tote for easy packing. Again, the same thing applies to jewelry. I usually stick with gold or silver and pack a few casual pieces and a few statement pieces. I used to find myself packing so much jewelry and sticking with my favorites anyway. I pack each in an individual bag and then into a monogrammed jewelry roll from my luggage set.

packing tips
Laying outfits out by day and event

Toiletries are a quick way to way luggage down fast. I always save my sample sizes or gift with purchases just for travel. I keep them all in a separate drawer in my bathroom so I never have to search for them. If I do need to bring other products, I always decant them into smaller travel-size bottles. You can find sets everywhere. Some beauty and haircare lines have even started creating travel size kits, which I love.

packing tips
Decant toiletries into small containers

Now that I have everything ready, it’s time to pack. Packing cubes have become my go-to when packing. There are so many cute ones available and I picked up some different sets on Amazon. Usually, I pack each cube by clothing type because that is how I arrange things in a hotel. Rolling your clothes saves so much space and also keeps them from wrinkling, bonus! Who wants to iron on vacation? I always bring an empty cube for laundry, just to keep things organized.

packing tips
Packing cubes keep everything tidy

A Lilly Pulitzer backpack has been my go-to for my carry-on bag. It’s so easy to throw on and my hands are free if I have a carry-on suitcase. Backpacks are so roomy too. I always carry an empty insulated water bottle in it to keep a bottle of water cold once I am through security.

packing tips
Use a backpack for a carry-on

I also want to find my luggage quickly. I’m ready to start my trip not sit at an airport. Amazon has some great luggage and I ordered a hot pink suitcase, you can’t miss it. Another tip, I always put a business card or contact information inside my suitcase. You never know if it will get lost and the luggage tag broken off. Coordinating monogrammed luggage is just classic and my favorite. Depending on the length of my trip, I will take my monogrammed weekender bag as my carry-on. I also have the coordinating jewelry roll, toiletry bag, and garment bag from Initial Outfitters. I just love when everything coordinates!

packing tips
Coordinating luggage from Initial Outfitters
packing tips
A bright suitcase to spot easily

I hope you found some useful tips and are able to enjoy a trip soon. Now, how many days until Palm Beach?

Until next week,

Carrie

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Carrie Kelly Boutique, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com