Changes in life, grandparents, etc.
Style
July 3, 2017
Style
April 1, 2017
Here To Inspire
January 19, 2017
This could be us … But you playing.
For my girls that are single on Valentine’s Day, whether it’s because homeboy is tripping or because you were tripping, this post is for you. If you’re a “I’m single and I don’t need a man” type, your post is coming. But sorry honey, this isn’t it.
We’ve all been there at least once in our lives. Valentine’s Day rolls around, and we have no one special to celebrate it with. Everyone keeps telling you “girl, you don’t need a man” or “the right one is coming, just wait.” Deep down you know this to be true, but you’re not worried about that right now. You’re focused on how you feel TODAY, right here, in this moment. Maybe he dumped you. Maybe you dumped him. Maybe he cheated. Maybe he’s just an idiot. Maybe you read too deep into that text and got your hopes up … whatever it is, grab a glass of wine, and let’s talk this out.
This could be us, but you playing.
Five Ways to Survive Valentine’s Day … Single
1. Call your SINGLE girlfriends, get dressed up and go out! Don’t call your married/committed friends … we can’t help you today. And even if we can help you and are willing to talk you through it, you’ll remember mid-convo that, “that chic has a man … and I don’t.” #fatality. Just trust me here.
2. Go dancing. Not the dancing type? Even more reason to just go out and have a good time. Take your mind off of your sorrows and let loose!
3. Let go. Release. Sometimes my favorite way to do this is to scream at the top of my lungs or sing my favorite songs in the car or in the shower. When I was in college, my girlfriends and I were all going through various forms of heartbreak at the same time, and we would sit in the dark (literally, pitch black), lay on the floor and listen to the Me’Shell Ndegeocello song “Fool of Me” on repeat. Looking back now, it’s both sad and hilarious, but man, if you need to wallow in pain for 3 minutes and 30 seconds, that song will surely help you through it! Even if you’re in a loving relationship, I caution you … this song will take you to a dark place! LOL (Janika and KC don’t hate me for sharing this!)
4. “Love yourself girl or nobody will.” Celebrate YOU! I feel like that’s a whole blog series within itself but seriously, rather than focusing on being single and the idiot who left you, celebrate how beautiful, successful, smart and amazing you are! Pop a bottle of champagne and repeat after me “I’m a bad chic!” It may sound cliche, but you know I’m right. Plus, it’ll definitely work.
5. If all else fails, pour yourself a glass of wine (or 3), turn on Netflix, and treat the day like any other day. Because really, that’s all it is. Oh, and buy yourself some flowers, because you deserve it. PRO TIP: wait to buy the chocolate the day after, it’ll be on sale 🙂
Mwah ? You got this girl! Any single girls out there that can share what they do to conquer V-Day?
Thanks for stopping by! I’m so grateful for each of you that reads my blog. And thank you to my sweet husband for reliving my single days with me and providing endless eye rolls while proof reading this 😉 #therealmvp
“Now back to what I was saying … this could be us, but you playing” – Rae Sremmurd
The lovely dress that is the perfect fit for this occasion is from Luxington Boutique here in Houston.
Photos: Samya Hall of SH Photography
XO
Style
December 28, 2016
The not so workout routine.
I stopped making resolutions to get fit and go to the gym a few years ago, for the
Home
December 9, 2016
Help! The In-Laws Are Coming! Holiday Guide.
It’s that time of year again. Families are reuniting for the holidays, we’re spending time with loved ones we haven’t seen in a while, and if you’re hosting, you might be a little stressed trying to make sure that everything is perfect.
In my family, almost every year we’ve celebrated Christmas either at my house in Houston (with just the 4 of us), or with my parents in Dallas because of my busy retail work schedule. However, this year it will be a nice treat to host my husband’s sisters and their spouses for Christmas at our home.
My husband has 3 sisters, and I have 3 sisters, so typically, no matter where we spend our time, it’s a big family gathering when everyone is present.
Preparing for your in-laws to come in town can be a daunting task for some, perhaps it even drives you to grab that bottle of wine you’ve been saving and drink the whole thing (… am I the only one that’s done that? Oops!) Thankfully I’ve been blessed with super sweet sister-in-laws, but just in case you weren’t so lucky or you just need some advice to kick you in gear, I’m sharing my holiday hosting guide just for you!
1. I can only be me.
I am a firm believer in not changing who you are just because company is coming. Am I a great cook? NO! So do I stress about having picture perfect homemade dinners every night for everyone? Hell to the no! And I’m pretty transparent about that with anyone that knows me. What I am though, is a great host. Play off your strengths. And don’t let the things you aren’t so great at get you down.
2. More wine please … or food (or both).
In my family we love great food and a great cocktail. So when it’s time to gather, there’s never a shortage of either. Know your audience, what does your family love to do? I’ll be quizzing my husband to make sure we are on the same page with hosting his family, BUT I do have high hopes that it will involve great food and a great drink!
3. Plan ahead. You are the FUN Captain!
As the fun captain, make sure that you staying up to date on all the happenings in your city that your guests may be interested in. Every family is different during the holidays, some are just fine hanging out at home, some are doing last minute shopping up until the very last hours, and others are jet setting around the city getting into all kinds of craziness. Whatever your cup of tea is, make sure that you are prepared and have a great plan.
4. Don’t talk about it. Do not engage. Pour more wine.
You know, that one topic that might really set things off … Just don’t. I know that seems obvious, but if there’s always that one person that doesn’t catch the hint or the nudge under the table to please stop. That person in my family is my dad, but thankfully he is absolutely hilarious so he usually gets away with being completely unfiltered. If your person is not so funny, and painfully awkward, refer to number 2, and drink up (or eat up) buttercup.
5. Enjoy each other.
As our lives continue to evolve, we find ourselves moving to different cities, experiencing different challenges, as well as amazing opportunities. This time of year is the perfect time to relax, reconnect, and just enjoy each other’s company. I plan to do just that!
Are you hosting this year? Any other tips that you’d share?
Thanks so much for stopping by the blog. I love you guys!
XO
Travel
October 26, 2016
Family Cruise 2016
A couple of weeks ago we had the most amazing experience of going on our very first cruise. So today, I’m going to share with you a full recap of our trip!
In total transparency, I was anti-cruise for years. The thought of being on a boat and the risk of getting sea sick, or (in my paranoid mind), falling off the boat, was just too much for me to handle. So when my husband presented the idea earlier this year, I responded with an emphatic NO! I was more attracted to the idea of a full beach vacation in Jamaica or Aruba, anywhere really … as long as I wasn’t trapped on a boat!
Looking back now, all I can say is … boy was I wrong! We went back and forth for awhile, but my husband (being the incredible salesman that he is) managed to persuade me and got me on board.
We decided on a 7 day cruise that departed from Galveston. Our stops included Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Jamaica. Our children were SO excited and this was our first real family vacation that didn’t include going to a relatives house!
From the amazing food, to the incredible service, to all the awesome activities that kept us busy every day both on the boat and off … We literally booked our next cruise while we were still cruising!
Cozumel
Our time in Cozumel consisted of riding dune buggies through town, enjoying authentic Mexican food and hanging out on the beautiful beaches of Cozumel. It was truly breathtaking to have lush greenery on one side of us and the beautiful beach on the other side. Picturesque. There were so many moments on the trip when I just stood in awe of how beautiful our surroundings were.
Grand Cayman
After a wild day in Cozumel (it was so fun but we were so tired!), we decided to have a chill beach day in Grand Cayman. We booked all our excursions through the cruise line, so that made it really easy. Jason and the boys played football on the beach, we enjoyed delicious local foods and some yummy rum drinks. We had never been to Grand Cayman before, and we would definitely go back!
Jamaica Mon
Jamaica was by far my favorite stop. The people. The culture. The food. The beach. The drinks. Gah! I could go on and on! It was AMAZING! We selected an all-inclusive resort stop for our time in Falmouth and it truly exceeded my expectations. Imagine the most beautiful beach you’ve ever seen, paired with a buffet of delicious Jamaican food and unlimited beverages … y’all I was in heaven. It was so gorgeous! Jason (my husband) has been looking at properties in Jamaica ever since we got back. That’s how cool it was! #obsessed #takemeBACK!
On The Boat
Our time on the boat completely exceeded my expectations as well. I’m not sure how I thought that I would feel bored or trapped, because the boat is huge and there was just so much to do! If we weren’t swimming in the beautiful pools, or sliding down the water slides, we were playing putt-putt, watching Broadway caliber shows in the theater, eating gourmet meals, playing in the arcade, enjoying parades and character breakfasts with characters from Disney’s Madagascar (full costume … it was magical), checking out the casino … ah that’s not even the half of it! There was just so much!
We had such a great time! If you’re thinking about going on a cruise, do it! I would definitely recommend it! There’s a little something for everyone, at every age. Parents … You can even have alone time if you take your kiddos to the kid’s club! We did this a couple times .. The boys LOVED it … I wanted them with me though so it’s totally your preference!
Have you guys cruised before? What’s your favorite cruise line?
Thanks so much for stopping by the page! I’ll be sharing a few tips in tricks in my next post that helped us as first time cruisers! Love you guys!
XO
Style
July 31, 2016
Cold Shoulder Style + Newbie Blogger Tips.
I can’t get enough of the cold shoulder trend. I could wear it all day, every day! As we gear up for fall, I’ve been styling looks for the season, and this is one of my favorites! It’s amazing what a pair of great boots and an adorable hat can do to elevate your style.
I tagged this exact dress for your shopping pleasure, but sizes are running low in this color, so here are a few of the same style that I also love!
When I launched my blog this year, I didn’t know anyone, I didn’t know much about the business side of blogging and I didn’t have any idea what I was aiming for or what I really wanted, but what I did know is that I love to write (I’m a journalism major) and I have an unhealthy obsession with all things fashion.
I started my fashion blogging journey in college, and honestly, I don’t even really remember why I stopped, but it’s so good to be back at it again.
As a “newbie” fashion blogger and new resident to the Houston area, I thought it would be a good to share my TOP 5 tips for other newbie bloggers out there!
So here we go!
MY TOP 5 NEWBIE BLOGGER TIPS
1. Find your niche and stick with it.
I love fashion. So you know what my niche is? Fashion! I live it, I breathe it, I LOVE it! Find what your niche is and stick with it. I think it’s easy to watch what everyone else is doing and want to write how they write or cover topics that they cover, but stay in your lane. You have something special. Figure out how you’re going to share it in a unique way and then go do that.
2. Network and Get your name out there!
I am a certified INTROVERT. Small talk (with people I don’t know) makes me cringe and I have a social limit BUT getting out and meeting all of the gorgeous faces in the blogging industry, networking with them and learning from them has been incredible! Don’t be afraid to get out and get your name out there! Jump in darling! The water is fine 🙂
3. Stay active and be present.
Always remember that staying active and posting consistently both on your blog and social media are great ways to make sure that you are reaching your audience and tapping into audiences that you haven’t reached yet. Your post at 11AM may have only been seen by a handful of people, consistently share and be present. A Houston blogger gal pal told me that it’s great to post on social about 3-4 times a day. Do I do that all the time? No, but when I do, I see a huge swing in my engagement. Also, don’t just sit back and post, get out there and engage! Like, comment, talk to people! There are tons of awesome people on social media to interact with.
4. Be kind. Community over Competition.
There is room for us all. What you have is special. No one can do what you do, because there is no one like you. Remember that next time you look at someone else’s page and wish you had what they have. Be kind. Share love. Give love. We are all fabulous and deserve to shine bright.
5. HAVE FUN! Do it because you LOVE it, not because everyone else is doing it.
So why did you start this whole blogging thing to begin with? Most of us will say because we LOVE it! Blogging has been an incredible outlet for me, it has opened so many doors as well as introduced me to so many awesome people. Do it because you love it, not because everyone else is doing it. Your passion will fuel you.
Thanks so much for stopping by the blog! I appreciate it so much! Have an awesome night! Be sure to sign up below for my newsletter!
Style
July 25, 2016
Fall Fashion + You’re Invited!
I won’t lie when I first saw this dress at Target I walked past it 3 times. Picked it up, put it down, then picked it up again, and I’m so so glad I did. There’s something about a great print that makes my heart sing! For your sizing reference, I’m wearing a size small, however, I could definitely wear a medium as well for a looser fit.
The hat was a last minute addition to the outfit to add a pop of color. I’m a fool for blush tones #allthehearteyes!
My entire outfit is from Target! Can you believe that? Hat, dress and shoes for under $100. I bought the shoes a few seasons ago, but I’ll link similar ones for you soon!
You’re Invited!
Mark your calendars! August 17 The Woodlands Market Street is hosting a blogger crawl with several of Houston’s Top Bloggers, and guest what?! Little ‘ol me will be featured there! I’d love to see you! I’ll be posting more details in an upcoming post but here’s the link to RSVP now!
Blogger Crawl Event Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blogger-crawl-at-market-street-the-woodlands-tickets-26665264524
Here’s yet another amazing event that is coming up for the Houston Blogger Brunch! The Morning After is a brunch sampling event that will feature bites from local brunch hot spots, alongside drink samples & music.
Pre-Sale tickets are LIVE! I’ve got a special code just for #houstonblogger guys & gals!
Here’s the link: https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/mobile/index/1227341?utm_medium=microsite&utm_source=HOU
Use the code BLOGGER to get a special price! This will be an incredible networking opportunity to rub elbows with The Houston Press and say hello to your fab blogger pals!
Feel free to message me if you have questions or need help! I’m here!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
XX
Style
July 23, 2016
How To Style A Strappy Sandal
How to Style a Strappy Sandal.
Strappy sandals are the perfect way to complete a look, whether it be casual or dressy, they will elevate your outfit to a whole new level! Today on the blog I’ve collected several of my favorite looks that I know you’ll love!
This weather here in Houston has been out of this world. When I say it’s hot out here, I do NOT tell a lie. Imagine getting glammed up and ready for the day, and then going and sitting fully dressed in a sauna. That is my life right now! Ha! #thestruggleisreal
Here are a few of my favorite outfits to beat the heat! Same shoe and accessories with different pieces!
Everyday Glam
Date Night
Wear to Work
As you can see, there are so many different ways to style this type of shoe.
We are gearing up for another busy week here at the Jackson household. My kiddos love to swim, so we spend quite a bit of time at the pool when I’m not working. Hard to believe that summer is almost over!
Now that you’ve seen some of my style faves, tell me … what are some of yours?
As always, thanks so much for stopping by the blog! Be sure to sign up for my newsletter at the bottom of my site! And you can follow my daily shenanigans on SnapChat @stephanie1908!
Style
July 12, 2016
The Best Bodycon Dress For Women With Curves (A Booty)
The Best Bodycon Dress for Women with Curves … aka A Booty! As we gear up for Nordstrom‘s Anniversary sale, I thought it was only fitting that I share one of my favorite bodycon dresses with you. I was searching high and low for the perfect form fitting dress for a party recently, and of course I went to my go to store for inspiration. I have a slim waist but things get a little bit larger towards my bottom, so finding a great dress that fits me right is always a challenge.
I fell in love with this dress online first, and then raced to The Woodlands Mall to find it in store. I have dubbed this the best bodycon dress for women with curves because it literally fits like a glove. My favorite part in the back zipper detail that runs from top to bottom. I unzip mine just a tad to make it easy to walk.
Thankfully, it was just as amazing in person as it appeared on screen. I was tempted by other colors but settled on green because I don’t have anything in that color right now. There’s something about a solid colored bodycon that makes me so happy. The accessory options are endless! I styled the best bodycon ever today with a statement necklace and heels, but I’d also style it with an oversized cardigan and flats.
How would you style it?
In other news, this week my sister is getting married and we are just so excited! My entire family will be here and I can’t wait. The best part about weddings, other than the merging of two people, is FAMILY. We threw the most amazing bachelorette party for her last weekend, I’ll be sharing all about it on the blog this week.
You can shop my look (plus so much more) via LIKETOKNOW.it!
Thanks so much for stopping by the blog. I appreciate your support!
Style
July 8, 2016
Matchy, Matchy
Coordinating separates are so on trend and also SO SO fun. I posted this look a few posts back and today on the blog I’m sharing a few of my favorite looks that you should totally try.
When I first saw this trend had made it’s way back, I wasn’t sure that I would love it, but now, I’m a matching fool! Totally obsessed. If done correctly, you can achieve a fabulous look.
Ok ladies now let’s get in formation. Ha! Here are my top picks!
Are you brave enough to rock the matchy, matchy trend? If so, tag me on Instagram! I definitely want to see!
Blogging Tips
June 28, 2016
Why every boss babe should love Mondays.
I love this look for several reasons … It’s literally a perfect set! And the best part is I bought both pieces almost a year a part at two different stores, with no intent of wearing them together. Isn’t it wonderful how things workout?
I would totally wear this to a blogger event, a brand meeting or business lunch. In this Houston weather, you have to find ways to beat the heat and stay chic. (I’ll be sharing how to wear coordinating separates in my next post)
In the meantime … Where are my boss babes at? This post is for you!
I don’t know about you, but I love to work, I love Mondays and I love making things happen. I always find it interesting when I look through my social media timelines on a Sunday afternoon and see so many people dreading a new week, perhaps praying that their office will miraculously be closed for the day so that they can stay home. Sound like you? If it does, I’m most certainly not here to judge, in fact, the reason I can speak on this so well, is because I’ve been there! But I knew I didn’t want to stay in there.
I am the queen of having too much on my plate, but if you remember from my Do What You Love post a little while back, I shared why I refocused and followed my heart to do what I am passionate about. When you’re passion is your purpose, it never feels like work. Which is one of the reasons why I love a new week, a fresh start to make magic happen.
For those that don’t know, I work in retail management, in addition to my blog and have the incredible opportunity to lead a team of over 100 team members + store leaders every day. It’s awesome. But if I didn’t show up, ready to play every week, I wouldn’t be where I am today, which is still no where near my end goal.
Today on the blog, I’m sharing my Top 5 #girlboss tips on how to conquer the Monday blues and slay every week!
Let me preface all of this by saying that I am an organized freak at work, but a complete and total mess at home, so please don’t think I have it all together. I don’t do laundry or wash dishes every day just like the rest of my haute mess mama friends. #iaintsorry
1. Plan your little heart out.
Your calendar is your friend. I am a firm believer in being organized at work, having a plan and executing it daily. I know how nearly every hour of my day will be spent and even factor in time for the unknown. Time is precious. Planning is key. And execution is gold.
2. Vision and Goal Setting
Having a vision and setting goals is essential to your success every week. I always have a vision and goal setting meeting with myself first and then schedule one with my leadership team either at the beginning of the year or when I take on a new team. Why? Because you have to visualize where you’re going and how you’re going to get there if you truly want to win.
Have your vision and your goals posted where you can see them every day, be honest with yourself about where you stand and be ready to dig in and do the work that it takes to be successful.
3. Oh but darling what if you fly?
Fear and doubt are dream killers. There’s really no other way to say it. They take your amazing ideas, plans and potential and make them feel small and impossible. So how do you conquer that? That’s a whole blog series within itself, but what has helped me is thinking about all the things I want out of this life, the work it takes to get there and realizing that the only way to soar is to put on my wings and fly. No one else can get up and show up for me. And if my reasoning for not doing something is the fear of failure or what others may think, then I absolutely need to do it.
4. Tell em boy bye.
Haters gonna hate. I thought about just dropping the mic and leaving it at that, but let me elaborate for a second. Your vision and your purpose, is just that, your own, so when you show up on Monday morning, don’t let what other people do or say distract you. I think so many people miss out on amazing opportunities because they allow what other people are doing or saying determine their path. As my girl Bey would say “I ain’t thinking ’bout you” … #boybye
5. Shine bright like a diamond.
Every week is a new opportunity to shine. It’s a chance to take the shortcomings from the previous week and make them a success this week. No day or week has to look the same. I love my job, but I started my blog because it literally feeds my soul. What’s your shine factor? What drives you? If you’re just going through the motions every week, ask yourself this … why? I did, and when I couldn’t think of a good answer, I knew it was time to make a change.
Thanks so much for stopping by the blog! What are some of your boss babe tips?
