The Fort Lauderdale Chronicles: Spring Break 2017

Much like every blogger, I obviously love my blog. It's my baby, my creative outlet, and I have worked so hard over the past two years to make it the success it is today, so obviously I cannot see myself ever just giving it up. However, that kind of hard work (especially while juggling classes and a job) also entails many caffeine fueled, sleepless nights, writers block, and frustration which leads to a meltdown or two similar to Fiona Gallagher's from Shameless last season: 

Yes. I look just like that, aside from the fact I definitely do not look as pretty while crying, how does Emmy Rossum do it? Anyways, jokes aside, as much as I love my blog, when I get to that state of frustration, it reminds me to step back, relax, that I am only human, and believe it or not, I need a break. And as I am sure many of you know from past posts, I ended up doing just that, and actually had a break for spring break--which is why I was M.I.A. for four days. And man, was it liberating!

You see, normally when I go to Florida to visit John he is still dealing with his classes and I am perpetually busy with my blog, so though we spend time together, we also spend a lot of time working along side each other too. Which means I always end up bringing my laptop, iPad, my million and one post-it notes, and all my stress. Well this time, since my beau was actually on spring break too, he decided I needed an actual vacation and planned a romantic seaside getaway for us in Fort Lauderdale. His only condition was that I had to leave all of my work at home and enjoy myself. At first it was odd because I honestly wasn't quite sure how I would cope not working for a few days, but as soon as I saw the beautiful inn John picked out for us to stay in, I was thrilled and just knew that this was in fact the break I needed. And after having four gorgeous days just relaxing with my man, I have to say I came back home feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired to get back to work here! And even though I've already done a few posts since I returned, this one is a bit different simply because I've decided it would be nice to share some of my more personal details with you guys, so here are some of the highlights from John and I's trip!

Snaps & Such

Though I did bring my Leica with me on this trip and took a few professional grade photographs for this post, there were points in our vacation where I wasn't so much focused on shooting, but just having a good time. However, while strolling along the board walk and stopping at my favorite restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, Lulu's Bait Shack, I was armed with my iPhone and here are a few of my favorite candid moments that I snapped!

Pretty palm trees on the board walk.

View from Lulu's Bait Shack.

Not quite sure why there was a dummy of Castro on the street, but it gave John and I a laugh regardless.

Town center in Fort Lauderdale.

First ever trip to IHOP!

The Sea Side Inn

Next up, John got us a room in this nifty little seaside hotel, Lauderdale By The Sea. The hotel itself had more of a mum and pop or B&B feel, but it was lovely on the inside and had a gorgeous court yard which was great for enjoying our morning cups or tea and coffee.

Outside view of our hotel and the court yard.

Though the hotel looks tiny from the outside, it was actually quite spacious and homey on the inside.

I just loved the little work station complete with a live plant.

Comfy and cozy beds with a vintage photograph of Lauderdale By The Sea back in its early days.

One thing that I was very excited about, is that this hotel had a complete kitchen along with this cute little breakfast nook! 

Lastly, the bathroom of the room was cute and spacious as well, and the little sign just gave John and I a chuckle.

Funky Buddha

Next up, John treated me to lunch and drinks at the Fort Lauderdale brewery, Funky Buddha. For those of you who have never been or heard of Funky Buddha, it is a brewery with a huge selection of in house beers and a tapas menu. It's quite the laid back place and is definitely the place to go on a lazy Sunday afternoon to just hang out and enjoy a couple brews.

Just outside of the brewery.

As I stated earlier, I really love the laid back vibe of Funky Buddha, as well as their chill atmosphere.

It's also a bonus that Funky Buddha's beer and tapas selection is excellent!

Casual Date Outfit

For John and I's casual date to Funky Buddha, I decided on a more whimsical and relaxed out fit, because I was on vacation after all! So I paired my Victoria's bikini top with my white criss-cross cami from Fascino, my Oliver Goldsmith sunnies, some high waisted shorts from ModCloth, a basic tan leather bag, and my black flats.

And to add the finishing touches to this outfit, I paired it with gorgeous Delilah Druzy neckace by SLATE. The reason I chose this necklace is because I felt the blue stones added a nice but subtle pop of color to this outfit.

A Perfect Moment

Lastly, on John and I's way home from the hotel, I decided to snag a photograph of this barn because the lighting was absolutely gorgeous. The story behind it though is, in order to get this photo, I actually ended up having John pull off the freeway. So we ended up having a little adventure of our own.

If you can't tell from this article, I had an absolutely wonderful time over my spring break! I just can't thank John enough for putting this all together for us, as well as just being an outstanding human being. If you're reading this Affection Rabbit, I love you and you are just the best!

So, did any of you travel anywhere exciting for spring break? If so, let's chat about your adventures in the comments below or you can tweet me at @StarkRavingChic! Have a sweet photo from your travels? Feel free to tag me in your post or Instagram story at @StarkRavingChic. Later, babes!

Xx Bree

P.S. Psssssst! If you love the jewelry I styled in this post as much as I do, you can try Rocksbox for a whole month 100% FREE when you sign up using my promo code "starkravingchicxoxo". Don't know what Rocksbox is or how it works? You can learn more here!

Also, In case you haven't heard, I am now a proud member of rewardStyle and LIKEtoKNOW.it! Meaning you can shop straight from my Instagram feed when you click here or here. Don't know what LIKEtoKNOW.it is all about? Learn more, here!

The Importance of Home (Feat. Modern Map Art)

As I'm sure you've all noticed, I have been gearing up for my upcoming trip to see John for our mini spring break vacation. And even though that is the main thing I am anxiously awaiting, I am also super stoked because once I return, I will be taking on a different type of project, and that would be completely revamping my room (and wardrobe, but more on that later in the next few months). With that being said, though I will still predominately be posting articles about style and beauty, I am excited to announce that in the upcoming weeks my blog will be featuring some more lifestyle and travel pieces too! So, to kick it off, I'm thrilled to share my latest collaboration with the California based company, Modern Map Art, and show you guys the lovely map I received from them. And the map is of no other than my beloved hometown, Pittsburgh.

Modern Map Art

For those of you who have not heard of the company, Modern Map Art, allow me to give you a brief overview. The company began when the site's owner, Jennifer, returned from her honeymoon last year where she was fortunate enough to travel all over the globe. This experience gave Jennifer so much inspiration that she decided to combine her love of travel and her interest in maps into one, and that is how Modern Map Art was born. And I have to say that these nostalgic map prints are an absolutely great decor piece.

Home Is Where The Heart Is

As I have mentioned in some past posts, though I adore travelling and know that eventually I will probably call another city home, Pittsburgh will always hold a special place in my heart. This little city is the one where I spent my childhood, earned my education, and ultimately found my start. This place has shaped me more than I could ever explain and for that it will always be a piece of me, which is why I was so happy to receive a print to commemorate the love of my hometown.

The reason I liked this print so much isn't only because it is a map of my hometown, but because I loved the elements of the city that Jennifer highlighted, specifically the three rivers which are colored gold. The reason I liked this touch wasn't only for the pop of color, but for anyone who is familiar with the 'Burgh, you know that we love our black and gold, which are the colors of our beloved sports teams. I also like how modern yet simplistic the map is, making it an interesting conversation piece when I have guests over. The only thing that I wish was included on this map, would be just some markings as to where the major landmarks are (e.g. Point State Park, PNC Park, Heinz Field, and the inclines to name a few) but perhaps that is just due to my love and nostalgia of the city that I have called home for almost a quarter century. But don't get me wrong, that doesn't make me love this print any less.

To be honest, growing up and throughout college, I wasn't much for decor, I always kept my living space very plain and simple, with barren walls and minimalistic furniture. Perhaps that is because I never felt as grounded in my life as I do now, but as of recently I have definitely acquired an appreciation for small, decorative house plants, as well as meaningful trinkets and art. And though my room is far from where I want it to be (Yep, there is a revamp post coming as soon as it is done!) I felt decorating my one completed wall with this modern map print was a great start! To style this print, I placed it on one of my dressers and surrounded it with a few of my favorite knickknacks (if you can't tell, I really like elephants) and honestly I love waking up every morning and looking at the outline of the city that has molded me into who I am today, it's truly a great feeling.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I am very happy with my print from Modern Map Art and would highly recommend doing business with them if you are looking for a map of one of your favorite cities or a custom creation to decorate your home.

Are there any cities that you have a special connection with? I'd love to chat, so tell me all about the place you call home in the comments below or tweet me at @StarkRavingChic! Have an awesome photo of your hometown or city that you wanna show off? Feel free to tag me in a post or on your Instagram story at @StarkRavingChic. Later, babes!

Xx, Bree

Spring Break Travel Essentials (Feat. Amazon)

Between the first half of this semester seeming to fly by, preparing for midterms, and day dreaming about having a vacation, I'm sure most of us simply cannot wait for our spring break. Though some of ours may be longer than others, I'm sure we are all more than ready for that sweet week long break. (In John's case three day long break--you're really cutting into our vacation, Keiser University.) So in preparation for John and I's mini vacation to Fort Lauderdale, I thought it would be nifty to write a little post covering some of my must have, beach destination travel essentials!

The Basics

Okay, so I know most of us know to travel with the things above when we head to the beach for vacation, however, I myself forgot to pack sunglasses one time when I went down to Delray, and that is actually how I ended up with the Ray-Bans above. (Yes, John still teases me about that.) So since I'm sure I'm not the only one who can be super forgetful, I figured I should highlight the importance of having the following: 

• Bikini: Though I will be diving into spring break styling next week, I added this bikini because for one it will be featured in my style guide and two, because who goes to the beach without a swimsuit? 
• Sunglasses: Though this was semi-covered above, sunglasses are so important, especially in sunny climates, to protect you eyes from the harsh light. The reason this is particularly important for me is because I tend to get awful headaches when exposed to very bright light. Let me tell you, they don't call Florida the sunshine state for nothing.
• Cell Phone: I feel as though this one is pretty obvious, but when travelling to a new place, it's always a good idea to have your cell phone handy for safety reasons. 
• Cell + Card Carrier (preferably water proof): Considering no one wants to lose their phone or identity, having a compact waterproof case for your cards and phone is definitely the way to go.
• Gum: Personally I am an almost constant gum chewer. Partially because I like to have fresh breath, and then just out of habit. However, for my single gals on vacation, you never know who you might meet, so best not to smell like your last meal (or beverage) am I right?

Reusable Water Bottle

Though I'll be the first to admit that I do not drink enough water (I'm trying to get better with that though!) I can't stress how important it is to stay hydrated--especially when out at the beach laying under the hot sun (cue the importance of sunscreen too). So a good way to keep hydrated it to have a reusable water bottle. This way, you can just fill it up at a drinking fountain and be on your way.

Portable Charger + Extra Cords

Going along with having your phone for safety reasons, that phone won't do you much good if it's at 10% battery and you are still a half hour away from your hotel. With that being said it would be wise to snag a portable changer so you and your friends can keep you phone charged on the go. Also, a few extra charging cords are a plus too, because if you're anything like me you're probably constantly losing--I mean misplacing yours.

Wine/Bottle Opener

Funny story: The first time John and I ever went on vacation, we had a romantic evening in Orlando. However, when we returned to our hotel room from our actual date and wanted a night cap, much to our dismay we didn't grab a twist off bottle of wine, and had no corkscrew to open it. Honestly, we had, had enough and this mishap probably saved us from being incredibly hungover the next day, but at the time we both felt kind of stupid for not planning ahead. With that being said, if you're planning on popping bottles in your hotel room, make sure to pack a bottle opener (or get twist off bottles--that just didn't have the same ring to it for a heading).

Advil

Lastly, Advil, or any over counter pain reliever, is a good thing to pack just in case of any kind of body aches and pains you may encounter. Nobody wants to be sick on vacation, much less so with a hangover headache.

What are some of your beach vacation essentials? I'd love to chat about it in the comments below, or you can tweet me about them at @StarkRavingChic. Later, babes!

Xx, Bree