National Harbor

"A vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it in." - Robert Orben

In March, G and I went on a little getaway to the MGM National Harbor for our second wedding anniversary. We both wanted to go somewhere close to home. but didn't feel like our hometown. G and I were able to hop in the car and just go, which was super ideal - who doesn't love a road trip?  

Growing up I've visited the National Harbor many times, so it was nice to go back and see how much things have changed!

Our getaway was an absolute blast, and the perfect long weekend we needed to reconnect and have some quality time. Today, I'm sharing our amazing experience at the MGM National Harbor.

A complimentary bottle of champagne was delivered to our room right after we checked-in to celebrate our anniversary.

The resort provided exceptional accommodations. Not only is the hotel absolutely stunning, but the staff was nothing short of kind and helpful! Upon our arrival at check-in, the concierge provided options of a complimentary glass of wine, mimosa, or champagne! Champagne is always a winner in my book.

Enjoying a lovely glass of wine at Fish by Jose Andres

A sweet anniversay treat at the Voltaggio Brother's Steak House

Dining Out

G and I are foodies, so we were pretty excited to try some new restaurants on our vacation. Below are our top picks for each meal of the day!

Breakfast

We are pretty light eaters in the morning, so we treated ourselves to some delicious pastries. The Bellagio Patisserie was simply delicious. Fresh croissants, macaroons, cinnamon buns, cakes, and every other pastry imaginable was available for purchase. The patisserie is French inspired and an absolute treat to indulge in. 

Lunch

Shake Shack is one of our fave places to eat! Lucky for me they have the best fried chicken sandwich, which is perfect since I do not eat red meat. This spot was always packed, it's that delicious y'all! Also, if you are a night owl, it stays open till 11 PM!

Happy Hour

Before we went to dinner, G & I walked through the casino. We are not huge gamblers, but it was so much fun to walk around and see all of the festivities. In the casino, we went to Felt Bar & Lounge. The spot is very an intimate and cozy. Their wine, beer, and cocktail menu was great. Also, the service was wonderful. If you are a fan of uniquely crafted cocktails - this place is a winner. 

Dinner

Our favorite spot for dinner was the Voltaggio Brother's Steak House - it was amazing. I loved the brothers on Top Chef, and was super excited to try it out! The service was spectacular, everyone from the host, waiters, and sommelier were so gracious and wonderful. G ordered the Bone-In Ribeye, it was 22 ounces and aged for 45 days. He absolutely loved about the dish. I got the Maryland Crab Cake which was to die for. There was no filler, and it came out in a small personal sized cast iron skillet. Everything was amazing and we couldn't be more happy with the experience. 

Keep in mind all of these delicious restaurants are in the hotel! We didn't have to leave the resort at all to have an amazing meal.

Capital Wheel at National Harbor

Staying at the resort was so convenient, everything was in close proximity. If you are interested in leaving the hotel, the Capital Wheel was such a cool experience. You go 180 feet in the air, and are able to see all of Washington - it is simply breathtaking. 

The National Harbor has an abundance of wonderful things to do! We are looking forward to going back in the near future and do some new activites.

Have you been to the National Harbor or the MGM resort? If so, what are some of your favorite things to do?

XO, Analise

Mother's Day Gift Guide

"God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers." - Rudyard Kipling

Mother's Day is quickly approaching! No matter what you give your Mom make sure it is truly special. For the past couple of years G and I have hosted a Mother's Day Brunch at our home. It's great and super relaxed - which is ideal for our family.  So many restaurants are insanely crowded and booked with reservations. Also, I really try to give gifts to our moms that they will enjoy. It can be a bouquet of flowers, spa treatment, or something that they have had their eye on for awhile. The goal is to ensure that on this special day, they relax and take a few moments for themselves. Every mother works so extremely hard, it's important to acknowledge and recognize them every day ... not just on this holiday.

Today I'm providing a few gift ideas for the special woman in your life.

1. Purse - What lady doesn't enjoy a great handbag? I got my love of purses from my mom. It is always nice to surprise her with a new one!
2. Jewelry - Earrings, necklace, bracelet, or a watch ... these are items that any woman would love. You can get a piece that has the lucky lady's birthstone in it. Also, a watch or ring that is engraved also adds a nice touch to it. Something that is personalized is always so sweet and lovely.
3. Fragrance - My grandmother has the most wonderful perfume collection. If you know your Mom's favorite fragrance, pick her up an extra bottle or the set!
4. Candles - This is perfect to couple with a massage gift card! You can make a basket full of items to ensure your Mom can relax. Candles, essential oils, and any self-care item to help the lovely lady take a moment to de-stress.
5. Home Decor - Both of our moms love home decor items. I love finding unique items that they can add to their homes. Whether it is a decorative platter, crystal, or lovely accent piece - these items are always a winner.

While, all these gorgeous gifts are fantastic, time is the most important gift to give to your Mom!

What are some of the best gifts you've given or received for Mother's Day?

Enjoy and happy shopping!

XO, Analise

Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography

The A-List

"We do not remember days, we remember moments." - Cesare Pavese

Today, I'm sharing some of my absolute favorite moments over the past several weeks! It is so nice to sit back and reminisce over wonderful memories. Always, stop and appreciate the positive and sweet moments.

One of my favorite candles from LIT Brooklyn.

Enjoying a mimosa during brunch with family at Bay Local.

Wine and flowers from Trader Joe's.

My new sunglasses from Tiffany & Co. that I cannot wait to wear soon.

Seeing Kid Fury & Fury during The Read Live in Washington D.C.

The most yummy fried oyster appetizer at Mannino's Italian Bistro in Virginia Beach, VA.

What are some of your memorable moments?

Enjoy!

XO, Analise

Sunshine

"Putting on a new pair of glasses or sunglasses is a simple way to completely transform your look - just like a new hairstyle." - Brad Goreski

Happy SUNday everyone! The sun is finally shining, and it is the perfect opportunity to get some new shades for the season.

Today I'm sharing some of the key qualities I look for in my sunglasses, as well as my top picks.

1. Price - Shades can get pretty pricey! No matter what style you choose, make sure it is within your budget. It is never okay to have buyer's remorse, and so important to love the item you choose. Personally, I have a few designer frames, and adore them, but I'm all about what looks amazing on my face!
2. Quality - Make sure the shades you are buying will hold up for awhile. I take really good care of my sunnies, and will make sure they are in good care. I store them in their cases, and clean my lenses before and after wearing them. When trying on your sunglasses make sure the material is durable, and that they will last for awhile.
3. Design - It is important to find the sunglasses that fit your face the best. I love trying on a variety of frames to see how they look. It's very important to not buy shades that overpower your face, they must complement you.
4. Fit - Last but not least, ensure that the shades sit comfortably on your nose and ears. There is nothing worse than your ears or nose hurting from your frames! If you are buying your sunnies from a retailer that specializes in sunglasses, see if they can properly size them for you.

Enjoy!

XO, Analise