Happy New Year - Hello 2023

Happy New Year 🎉

I can’t believe it’s a new year already - HELLO 2023! I am so grateful to have brought the new year in with family and friends. It was truly a blessing to be surrounded by so much love. I’m super late on getting this post out but I want to share my outfit inspo for New Years Eve.

I’m not one to go out and party while bringing in the new year, but I’m always down to find a great look. I called my girlfriend and said, I have an idea so let’s make it happen! Thanks, girl! 

Bring on the sparkles ✨

You can never go wrong with sequins! While sequins can be challenging to wear especially if it snags, the look will forever be classic. Instead of the traditional black, gold, or silver, I chose to do a bold hunter-green deep plunge jumpsuit, and my friend, Brittnay, went with a rose gold dress.

Similar jumpsuit, Option 2

Similar dress,   Option 2

Bring on the Hair

I’m all for the big hair! Give me curls and volume; however, you may need to use hair spray, especially if you’re going out. You want your hair to look great but also stay in place. Not a curly girl? Sleek hairstyles are timeless when paired with the right outfit and makeup. 

Always consider what your evening will look like. Are you heading out on the town or enjoying an intimate gathering at home? 


It’s time to pop some bottles 🍾

Is it really NYE if we aren’t popping bottles? 

I hope that you were able to bring in the new year safely. May 2023 bring you everything your heart desires.

Holiday Photo Ideas with Your Friends

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Can you believe that we’re less than two weeks away from Christmas? Crazy right? I love this time of year; cooler temps, comfort food, and connecting with friends and family are always a vibe!

One of the most important things I have been focused on lately is taking photos -  in the long run; you will want them! I don’t have a lot of pictures with my friends since we’ve gotten older because life and conflicting schedules just don’t allow it. But this year, I’ve wanted to be intentional about taking them, and I plan to start a photo series…stay tuned! 

If you’re considering taking holiday photos this year, I hope these are helpful! 

Christmas Tree Photos

Who doesn’t love a good Christmas Tree photo op? No matter if you’re in your home or find a decorated tree in your town - snag a quick photo!

Friendsmas Photos 

Are you having a holiday gathering? Be sure to grab a few candid photos.

Action Shots

I am obsessed with action shots and in-the-moment photos; they help tell a story. Some of my favorite pictures are of me walking and laughing.

Presents and Holiday Decor

Presents scream Christmas, and what better way than adding them to your shoot?

If you’re looking for holiday photoshoot inspiration, be on the lookout early next year! 

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas!

Date Night at Scarowinds 2022

My husband and I have made it our duty to do date nights more often. This month we decided to check out Carowinds' annual event called SCarowinds! I was very interested in attending this event, it had been on my radar for years but the timing was never right.

Fast forward, my husband loves all things scary, I, not so much. So I knew this would be the perfect outing for us outside of a traditional dinner and a movie. I had no idea what to expect but I did read up on a few things to help me prepare.

• There are several haunted houses to view.

• A “no boo” necklace is available to purchase if you don’t want to get scared.

• Actors/Workers are not allowed to touch you but they can speak to scare you.

• Most rides are open.

• Not recommended for children under 13 years of age.

I loved their themed food options, it helped to tie in the spooky vibe of the season! We enjoyed wings and fries - our fave! We also brought our season pass cup, perfect if you visit multiple times throughout the year. Well worth the price. 

I haven’t been to a haunted house since high school and all I remember was it was scary. I was so nervous but I loved their rule that no one could touch you. That was my fear of being grabbed and knowing that provided me with the peace I needed to enjoy the night. 

Silver Scream Studios: Condemned was our favorite haunted house! It was the right amount of scare and fun! I highly recommend hitting this one first. 

We also opted for the Fright and Fast Passes because we wanted to enjoy our time at the park without having to wait long. 

Pricing

Tickets start at $39.99 + tax

Fast passes $79.99 + tax

SCarowinds is open September 16 - October 30, 2022, please review their chaperone/visitor policy here.

If you decide to visit let me know! We had a blast and we plan to attend next year as well.

My Fall Bucket List for 2022

I have to admit; fall is one of my favorite times of the year. As a Carolina girl, I look forward to a break from the South Carolina humidity, which is replaced by a beautiful crispness that fills the air. I created a fall bucket of all my favorite activities I cannot wait to do with my family and wanted to share them with you just in case you were struggling to find ideas for fun fall-themed outings!

The State Fair

South Carolina has an incredible state fair full of music, delicious foods, and exciting rides. There are also a ton of shows and exhibits featuring local artists, performers, and more. You'll definitely want to check out your area to see when your fair is in town; it's a can't-miss, family-friendly outing even the littlest of kiddos can enjoy!

Psst…keep an eye out on my Instagram, I have something very special for you.

Pumpkin Patch + Pumpkin Carving

Visiting a pumpkin patch is a tradition many families share, including mine, and it's one of my favorite fall activities. I love picking out our favorite pumpkin and then (attempting) to make a cute carving out of it. Even the youngest members of the family can enjoy choosing their favorite pumpkins, making the pumpkin patch an ideal activity for kids of all ages!

Campfire Smores

If I had to use one word to define campfire smores, I would say "perfection!" From the smokiness of the marshmallow to the gooey chocolate and crispy graham cracker crunch, they make the ideal fall dessert. I love sitting around the campfire, singing songs, telling stories, and making memories, all while snuggled up in a comfy blanket; it's truly the perfect way to spend an evening together as a family.

Last year, I enjoyed making a smores board with the kids!

Apple Picking

Apple picking is a quintessential fall-time activity, and for a good reason! Not only is it fun and educational to take your little ones to the orchard where they can see how apples grow, but the sweetness and crunch from the freshly picked fruit are beyond compare. Plus, you'll be able to get some adorable pictures with one of the most beautiful natural backgrounds.

Family Photoshoot

Speaking of beautiful pictures, fall is my favorite time for our family photoshoot, as the changing leaves provide a stunning backdrop. It's so much fun seeing how much my family has grown over the last year, and I cherish the memories tied to each beautiful picture.

Friday Night Lights

It's no secret that my family loves sports, and there's nothing quite like the feeling of Friday night lights. Attending our local high school's football game has always been one of my favorite activities, thanks to the electricity in the air as we cheer on our home team. It also provides the perfect time to catch up with friends and deepen bonds with the community.

If you're looking for fun, family-friendly fall activity ideas, why not try one from my bucket list? I'd love to hear about the fun you and your family had, creating memories that will last a lifetime!