The Ring

“The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” – Eden Ahbez

When G and I decided we wanted to get married, both of us went to one of my favorite jewelry stores in our hometown.We did this so he could get a clear idea of the exact ring I wanted. Unfortunately, everything that was in the case was primarily white gold and platinum at the time. I've always worn gold jewelry, and was super bummed that the metal I wanted wasn't readily available. We spoke to a designer, and he reassured both of us that an engagement ring could be made for me. G and I talked it over, and we decided to custom make my engagement ring, as well as my wedding band.

Today I'm sharing my experience on designing a custom piece with a designer, as well as some things I learned. 

1. Design with the long-term in mind. It is absolutely important to design a piece that is practical and will stand the test of time. Select a piece you will love forever, and truly matches your style.

2. Start the design process early. Depending on the jeweler, it can take 6-8 weeks to have your ring completed. Also, if you are getting a custom wedding band, take that into account as well, and add an additional 4-6 weeks to that timeline. Sometimes the design process can be expedited, but with an extra fee, so be absolutely mindful of the timeframe.

3. Bring examples and gather inspiration. This is so very important. When I had my ring designed the designer sketched out my vision, but I came prepared with samples. Also, my designer provided G with renderings to ensure he was on track before proceeding in the process. It was key that the designer matched our vision.

4. Be clear in your expectations. It is very important to inform the designer on all of the specific things you want in the ring. For me, it was a must to have a ring that was gold. Also, I wanted the ring to have etching and an antique style to it. It’s always important that your partner knows the exact diamond size your ring will have added to it. This part in critical in the design of the ring, and will affect the renderings.

5. Enjoy the process. Most importantly, enjoy the design process. I had the best experience with the jeweler and designer we partnered with. They made the process so much fun and educated us both as a result.

Have you ever designed a piece of jewelry? If so, share your experience below!

XO, Analise

Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography

Fall Style

"Fashion fades, only style remains the same." - Coco Chanel

This weather is getting a bit cooler, which means Fall is just around the corner. Fall is one of my favorite seasons, mainly because I love the clothes I'm able to wear! I leverage a lot of my Fall wardrobe for Winter, just because they are super easy to transition.

Today I'm sharing my top items for this wonderful season, and how they are amazing pieces to layer in the Winter too!

1. Kimono - I absolutely love a comfy kimono. It’s a nice to layer a nice shirt and thin sweater underneath!

2. Booties - This is essential, and I have so many booties in my wardrobe that I enjoy wearing during this time. I tend to spend a little bit more on this footwear, and purchase booties that are waterproof.

3. Sneakers - I’m ditching the sandals and trading them in for more comfortable footwear. I love wearing sneakers on the weekends, especially to run errands. It’s so important to have shoes that are super easy to get things done in!

4. Flats - For work these closed-toe flats are my go-to items in this season. Not only are they super cute, but very warm, and pair perfectly with jeans or slacks.

5. Trench Coat - This is a must, especially since it gets super chilly during this season. I love getting a trench that has a hood on it as well, or comes with one that is detachable. This is ideal for me, and is perfect if the weather turns rainy.

6. Sweater - I love a nice chunky sweater, and days I do not want to wear a jacket, it’s my fave option. Also, I love getting many sweaters sooner in the season, so I can layer them in the wintertime.

7. Wrap/Scarf - Having a nice scarf or wrap not only adds a little pop of color to your look, but it the perfect layering piece for the even cooler months. I have so many scarves, and they come in handy when traveling too!

What is your favorite Fall wardrobe piece? Also, what are some items you are coveting for the season?

XO, Analise

Netflix Night

“I love a good Netflix binge!” - Simone Biles

One of my favorite things to do is curl up with a glass of red wine and binge a new Netflix show.

There are so many amazing shows out right now, and I love discovering a new series to watch. We have been stuck at home due to Hurricane Florence, and thankfully we haven’t gotten the severe weather we initially anticipated. Since I’ve been working from home all week, I decided to catch up on a few shows!

Today, I am sharing my top shows on Netflix!

• Luke Cage - I am a huge Marvel fan, and this is one of my favorite series! If you are into comic books, and love 90’s hip-hop, you’ll absolutely love this show.

• 13 Reasons Why - This was recommended to me by a friend, and it’s such a great show. It definitely tackles a lot of sensitive issues going on with teenagers in today’s society.

• Black Mirror - This show is amazing, and definitely gives me all of the “Twilight Zone” vibes. Each episode has a new cast and storyline, which is very engaging. You can start this show anywhere in the series!

• Wentworth - My best friend and I stumbled upon this show a few years ago … it was one of the greatest things to happen to us. It’s a way edgier version of “Orange is the New Black”, and the cast is phenomenal. The show is filmed in Australia, and Netflix gets the series super quickly!

• Ozark - This is a newer show, and I totally love it! A seemingly super normal family, is heavily involved in the drug business. You get to see all the hoops they have to go through in keeping a cover in their community.

• The Office - When this show was originally on the air, I was in college, and didn’t really watch it on a regular basis. Also, during that time I did not exactly connect to the storyline. A few years, my husband recommended I give it another shot, and I haven’t looked back. The comedic performance of the entire cast is spot on, and is so relatable now that I’ve been working in an office setting for almost a decade.

• Queer Eye - I was obsessed with the original “Queer Eye” from the early 2000’s and used to watch it with my Mom all the time. When the reboot came out, I was so excited. Also, the new Fab Five is amazing, Karamo Brown is perfection.

• Dear White People - This show originally was a movie, and it was fantastic. When I found out there were be a show, I was totally thrilled. It shows the perspective of a group of Black students at a prestigious Ivy League university. Having my own experiences at a PWI, this series totally resonates with me.

What are some of your favorite shows on Netflix? Feel free to share below! Happy binge watching y’all!

XO, Analise

Philadelphia Travel Guide

"The best education I have ever received was through travel." - Lisa Ling

Before the summer ended, C and I decided to take a quick trip to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I've been a few times before, but this was my first visit doing a more tourist-like trip. The city is stunning, and there is so much to see and do. 

We decided to stay outside of the city for our trip, and selected one day where we toured all of downtown Philadelphia.

Below I'm sharing the highlights of our trip! 

Independence Hall

We decided to do the Big Bus Philadelphia tour. It was the quickest way to see absolutely everything! Also, it was great because we were able to get on and off at any stop in the route.

It's perfect for the person who just wants to ride around the city, or if you want to dig deeper into a specific site, the option is available. The entire tour takes about 90 minutes. Also, you can sit on-top of the bus, or inside if you prefer to not be in the elements. 

Our bus was packed, and it is highly recommended you get setup on a bus early in the day - especially if you are in a larger group and prefer to sit together. 

The tour guides were awesome, super knowledgeable, and they provided excellent commentary along with viewing the city's stunning architecture.  

Favorite Spots
 

• Liberty Bell - You cannot go to Philadelphia without seeing the Liberty Bell. There are two ways you can it. First, you can do a tour and get up, close, and personal with the bell, or you can view outside the building, between a glass barrier. Viewing it outside the museum was a popular option, as many viewers were able to quickly see the bell and hear the audio along with it. 
• Penn's Landing Waterfront - This lovely waterfront is perfect to visit at night or during the day. During the warmer months, live bands play. Also, they have food trucks and amazing vendors that setup along the water. It's so much fun to walk around and relax. It's such a cool spot to visit.
• Philadelphia Museum of Art - I've visited the museum last year, and it is simply breathtaking. Of course, this is home to the iconic "Rocky Steps" on the east side of the building. So many people were running up and down the steps. Off to the side the Rocky statue stood very tall - and there was a very long line to get a photo with it! 

Philadelphia Museum of Art & "Rocky Steps"

Busy streets of Philadelphia

The famous Reading Terminal Market, that has over 80 amazing food vendors

Reading Terminal Market - One of the largest markets in the United States, and is a National Historic Landmark Building. This market has an outstanding selection of food - ranging from fresh produce, seafood, meats, delicious desserts, cold-pressed juices, and gourmet sandwiches. Also, you'll be able to find some amazing kitchen and home items to include in your household. 

Pro Tips

• There is limited seating in the market, so when you find a seat, grab it quickly! Also, some restaurants do have a few seats allocated for their business, so check before walking away.
• Not interested in eating there, or want to take some ingredients home? Ask the vendor for to go options, as well as packing up fresh meats or seafood to go.
• Get there early! It gets crowded quickly, so make sure you tour the market and find the restaurant you'd like to try.
• There will be lines for popular places - so be prepared to wait. Many popular vendors has extremely long lines! So be patient, and the lines do move pretty swiftly. 

Favorite Vendors

• Profi's Creperie - Their crepes were so light and fluffly! This place was very popular, but so worth the wait. 
• By George! Pizza, Pasta, & Cheesesteaks - C tried two cheesesteaks, and this one, won! His favorite cheesesteak this visit was actually not at the market, but Tony Luke's was the standout during our trip. 

Observing the gorgeous architecture in the city

Philadelphia Bourse

Our tour of Downtown Philadelphia was great! This was my third trip to this wonderful city, and each time I find or learn something new.

I'm looking forward to another trip to this amazing city in the future. 

Have you ever been to Philly? If so, what's your favorite thing about it?

XO, Analise