New Year, New Questions: FAQ

I recently posted an “Ask Me Anything” on Instagram and got so many good questions. While they will also live in my Instagram highlights, I wanted to post them here too so that all my readers can learn a little bit more about me and I can share a few more of my favorite links with you!

Q: BEST SHOES FOR 2025?

I’ve linked all the shoes I’m currently loving below, from boots to heels – everything you need for the New Year!

SHOP ALL MY FAVORITES

Q: SPRING BREAK TRIP IDEAS FOR FAMILIES?

We used to go to Mexico every year, but about three years ago, we started taking the kids to 30A instead. It’s such a beautiful destination – family friendly, safe, and packed with fun activities. It honestly feels like you’re in another country! The white sand, blue ocean and lovely weather make it an amazing spot for spring break. Check out our rental home there – it’s perfect for a larger group traveling to 30A!

Q: SWIMSUIT COVER UPS YOU WORE IN HAWAII?

There were so many fun outfits I got to wear in Hawaii and you can find them all linked HERE. I will also add some of my favorites below:

Q: HOW OLD ARE YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND?

I am currently 42 and Michael is 43!

Q: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE BLACK JEANS TO DRESS UP? NO BUDGET.

I love dressing up black denim. I’ll share a few of my favorites over the past few seasons.

Q: ARE YOU DOING ANOTHER COLLECTION WITH SPLENDID AND CAN YOU GIVE US ANY DETAILS?

I am! A spring ’25 collection is coming out VERY SOON and it’s so good. I cannot wait to share more of the pieces! Save the date, the pre-sale for VIP members starts on February 25th!

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TAKE TO A “FAVORITE THINGS” PARTY? THE BUDGET IS $50.

I love this question and had so much fun deciding what I would bring! I’ve linked a bunch of ideas below.

Q: YOUR SKIN IS GLOWING! WHAT FOUNDATION DO YOU USE?

Thank you! I love wearing the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter Foundation. You can find it HERE.

Q: COULD YOU SHARE SOME STYLISH BELTS UNDER $50?

Amazon has the best pack of two belts available. I’ve been wearing them on repeat and you can shop them HERE.

Q: I’M LOOKING FOR A NEUTRAL BOOTIE I CAN DRESS UP OR DOWN, ANY IDEAS?

These booties from Schutz are so flattering and would look great with a dress or a simple sweater and jeans.

Q: WHAT ARE YOUR TWO FAVORITE PERFUMES?

I have tried SO many perfumes over the years. The two below are easily my favorites. The bottles last forever and they also come in a convenient travel size (which I’ve linked, too!).

Q: WHAT ARE YOUR BEST CLOSET ORGANIZATION TIPS?

1. DECLUTTER FIRST: Start by donating or selling items you haven’t worn in a year.
   
2. CATEGORIZE CLOTHES: Group by type (tops, pants, dresses, etc.) and then by color for a visually pleasing look.
   
3. INVEST IN MATCHING HANGERS: Slim, non-slip hangers save space and keep everything uniform.
   
4. USE VERTICAL SPACE: Add shelves or hanging organizers to maximize height.
   
5. STORE SEASONALLY: Rotate out-of-season items to free up space for current wardrobe essentials.
   
6. LABEL STORAGE BINS: Keep accessories or off-season items in labeled bins for easy access.

Q: CAN YOU LINK YOUR MUDROOM WALLPAPER?

I have just posted all the items from our mudroom, plus some extra inspiration. I will link that HERE.

Q: I’M IN NEED OF A NEUTRAL HANDBAG UNDER $100!

There are so many great bags out there and I wanted to share a few of my favorites. They’re even made of leather, which is amazing under $100!

Q: LOOKING FOR THE BEST TARGET JEANS UNDER $50, WHAT DO YOU LOVE?

These jeans remind me of a pair of Agolde jeans that I own, but these ones are under $40!

Q: CAN YOU LINK DESIGNER HANDBAGS FROM NORDSTROM FOR UNDER $1K?

This question is so good! I love so many handbags and Nordstrom has such a great selection. You can find my picks linked below.

Q: HOW ARE YOU LOVING YOUR SHORT HAIR? I’M TEMPTED TO CHOP MINE!

I love it! I see pictures of myself with longer hair and I don’t love it. The shorter length fits my face and style well. Thanks to my bestie @kirbykontempohair for the amazing cut and color!

Q: WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO ORDER FROM NORTH ITALIA?

For apps, I love the wild shrimp scampi, zucca chips and charcuterie board. For entrees, I go between the spicy chicken parm, strozzapeti with spicy sauce and veggie noodles, or braised short rib. Yum!

Q: WHAT WERE YOUR FAVORITE PURCHASES OF 2024?

I shared some of my favorite purchases and most used items HERE. They are ones I still use often and love so much.

Q: HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO GROW YOUR BLOG AND START YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I started my blog over 12 years ago, without any idea that it would one day turn into a business. At the time, I simply wanted to share what I loved and little glimpses of my life, even if it was just for one person who might be interested. About four years in, it started to feel more like a business, but even then, I couldn’t have imagined it would grow into what it is today. I truly pinch myself every day and feel so grateful to do what I love, connect with an incredible audience like you, and share this journey together.