It seems that I always stock up on Sephora products whenever a sale rolls around. It is not only a great time to replenish my favorites, but also a great time to try out new items! Since the last Beauty Insider Event, I have changed my makeup routine a bit, so I am sharing my new faves and go-to’s with y’all below!

Lips

1. Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick {NEW}

I have been a Kylie LipKit fan since day one- however, I recently discovered Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick, and I’m addicted. It is a very similar formula to Kylie’s, but I notice Smashbox lasts longer. Because matte is my fave, Kylie and Smashbox both

My fave colors: Big Spender / Babe Alert / Girl Gang / Vino Noir

2. Sephora Collection Rouge Gel Lip Liner {NEW}

When pairing with the Smashbox Liquid Lipstick, the Sephora Collection Gel Lip Liner is a MUST! In fact, it is so good, I pair it with ANY lipstick! Something about the gel formula makes application so smooth and I am obsessed. And there is such a large color selection to choose from, which makes it easy to pair with any lipstick color.

My fave colors: Rose Wine / Wine-O

Side Note: I used to NEVER wear lip liner. It was a foreign concept to me, and I felt like my hand were not steady enough to apply. However, once I discovered this gel liner, I found application to be very easy, and now, I can apply without a mirror!! AHHH!

Eyes

1. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

This seems to be a popular mascara- and I believe a best-seller at Sephora. I have been using for the past year and it hasn’t disappointed. And they just released a GORGEOUS new package that I had to get my hands on. In honor of their 20th Year Anniversary, Too Faced released a bottle that is complete PINK GLITTER! Same formula, same price, just cooler packaging. So if you like to stock up on staple items like this mascara, make sure you crab this special-edition package to add to your collection.

2. Tarte & Too Faced Eyeshadow Palettes

Before I learned about the art of makeup, I had 2 eyeshadow colors- one for lid, and the other to go above. I know I’m not the only one that has done that! And while I am no expert still, I have branched out to using more colors, and this wonderful tool called a shading brush! I find that Tarte and Too Faced both have amazing eyeshadow palettes that are super pigmented and reasonably priced. I’m tagging my faves below.

3. Sephora Collection Felt Liquid Liner

I’ve featured this before, but it is a staple item I always stock up on during these sales, so I wanted to share it again. I use it only for my top lid, but it makes for a perfect cat-eye look.

My fave color: Little Black Dress

Face

1. Urban Decay All-Nighter Long-Lasting Setting Spray Duo Bundle

I’ve talked about the wonders of this setting spray before, but there is an AMAZING bundle deal right now that I have to highlight! I cannot get over how good of a deal it is, because it is too good for it to be true. Okay, so what’s the deal? For $39, you get a set of TWO full-size bottles of Urban Decay’s All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray. And y’all, you can get your additional 15-or-20% off on top of that!! Regular price for this bottle is $32, so you’re practically getting an extra bottle FO FREE!!

2. IT Cosmetics CC Cream {NEW}

For the longest time, I had been searching for a lighter alternative to the Fenty Foundation that I am obsessed with. Working from home, I don’t always do my makeup, so if I need to apply just a little, to feel fresh and new, this CC Cream is the perfect alternative! I am obsessed with the coverage it provides, and my skin  feels so free. Its like I am not wearing anything at all.

Don’t know which color to get? No worries! There is an shade-finder option in the link. Starting with your current foundation shade from another brand, this tool matches up the IT Cosmetics CC Cream color that is a similar shade to your current product. I tried it for myself, and IT WORKS!

3. IT Cosmetics Finish Powder {NEW}

When I went to purchase the CC cream, the gorgeous Sephora associated suggested pairing it with the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Finish Powder. However, I use it with all foundations! It makes my skin so silky smooth and hides all those huge pores I have covering my face. It is a miracle-worker and totally recommend.

4. Fenty Foundation

Y’all know I live, breath, and eat this foundation. I swear by it. The coverage is amazing, and the oxidization of the formula allows it to truly form to your skin tone. This is my glam-foundation: so I apply it whenever I have a photoshoot, event, date night, etc. I used to wear it everyday, but it started to become too heavy and I needed something to help my skin breath. But for special occasions, this is the best!

5. Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer

Again, I have talked about this primer before. I have even tried a couple other primers since then. However, I always resort back to the ORIGINAL Smashbox Photo Finish Primer, and it never disappoints. Another staple item I stock-up on during these sales, because I use it every time I apply any sort of foundation.

6. NARS Blush- Orgasm 

I have tried other blushes, but NARS Orgasm is by far my favorite! The light peachy-pink isn’t too bold and the shimmer blends well with highlighter.

7. Becca Cosmetics Champagne Pop Highlighter {NEW}

One of my favorite makeup products is highlighter. Highlighter can change your entire look and make it seem like you know what you’re doing. And Becca Cosmetics has the BEST highlighter. They have lots of color options, but my fave is Champagne Pop. It is a gold-tinted shimmer that makes your face brighten up. They are available in both the regular size and travel size, so if you’re looking to try it out, the mini version is a great economical option, plus has plenty of product to last.

If you are a VIB member, you’ll get 20% off using promo code VIBBONUS now through 11/12. If you are a Beauty Insider, you’ll get 15% off using promo code BIBONUS 11/16 through 11/19.

If there is one thing I love doing- it is getting dressed up. Working from home has made my daily routine much more casual than it used to be, so I jump on any opportunity I get to dress-to-the-nines and head out of the house.  Whether it is a girls night to a champagne bar or a classy date night out with my hubby, I love getting all done up.

This Type-A girl is a planner- so planning my outfits is all apart of the fun of going out. And while the outfit itself makes for a fun night, so do fabulous accessories to tie the look all together. I love to add a blingy pair of statement earrings, a bold lip, and a fancy clutch to make my entire look date-night ready. And this marble acrylic clutchfrom Marleylilly does just that. It is the perfect size to fit the necessities. Yes, I am able to fit my phone, lipstick, credit cards and ID, AND a powder compact all in that handheld box of perfection.  Plus, its neutral tones allow it to match any outfit. AND FREE MONOGRAMMING!

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to skimp on being glam. Marleylilly has some fabulous pieces, just like this gorgeous marble clutch, to spice up any look, all while saving your pennies! As you can see, this acrylic marble design with a metallic scripted monogram totally gives a classy vibe. Because everything is better when it’s monogrammed!

Paired with a fabulous dress, some pumps, and a smile, you will be feeling yourself all through the night with your man or best girlfriends AND a monogrammed clutch from Marleylilly!

Be sure to visit MarleyLilly.comto discover more monogrammed accessories perfect for any occasion.

*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Marleylilly. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*

A staple to every woman’s closet is a Little Black Dress. If you don’t have one- YOU NEED ONE! Not only does black favor the figure well, but it also goes with just about anything! Whether you’re dressing it up, making it casual, or needing a pop of color, a LBD is totally necessary. Plus, it’ll totally make you feel like Audrey Hepburn or Jackie O, which is every girl’s dream!

This LBD from the Julie Brown NYC collection at Swanky Shoppe is one of my favorites! Not only is the fit so flattering with the A-line style and synched wait, but tweed material makes for a classy look. And the gold metallic worked into the tweed I just can’t get enough of! Can we say GLAM?? It doesn’t get much better than that. Plus, it just gives me another reason to wear these totally crazy gold booties. Eccentric, I know- but totally FABULOUS!

I absolutely LOVE the collections from Julie Brown NYC. And thanks to Swanky Shoppe, I can shop these pieces in-person. And today and tomorrow, Swanky Shoppe is celebrating their Julie Brown Trunk Show by offering BOGO HALF OFF the Julie Brown NYC pieces. These styles are not only trendy, classy and totally fabulous- just like all of you! So head over to Swanky Shoppe to take part in this FABULOUS before the Trunk Show ends at closing on Saturday, October 20th at 4PM.

*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Swanky Shoppe in Elizabethtown, KY. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*

A couple weeks ago, I had my initial lash extension appointment with DekaLash and have since had a fill-in as well. I had such a wonderful experience, I thought I would share it with you all! I’ve had lots of questions about the specifics of eyelash extensions, so this post will be structured in a FAQs kind-of way!

My Lash Extension History

Before I begin, I want to provide a little background on my previous lash extension experience. Once of my closest girlfriends used to get her’s done frequently and they always looked so amazing! I was always in such awe at her lashes, I knew I would eventually want to get them done as well. I have always had long, dark lashes (and lots of them), so I never had much problems with volume or length as lots of women do. However, being the glam-girl I am, I wanted to try them out for myself. So a few years ago, I went and got lash extensions at a salon in my hometown. Now, I am NOT going to use my platform to trash another person or business, so I will keep their name anonymous. However, I was not pleased at all with my experience. My lashes were all glued together into several clumps, chunky, and going every which-way imaginable, making me look like a deformed spider. I was so upset, I removed them myself (which I do not recommend). In turn, damaging my lashes. This left me defeated and upset that I did not receive the results I had anticipated.

My Experience with DekaLash in Louisville, KY

Fast forward a year or so later- DekaLash reached out to me and informed me of their grand opening in Westport Village in Louisville, KY. After much research, I knew this place was legit! While they are a nationwide-brand, they franchise their locations out, so each salon is ran by their own local business owner. It gives the salon a confident, well-known vibe with a hometown, cozy personality.

When arriving to my appointment, I was greeted by several beautiful faces and checked-in using the modern iPad system. With gorgeous, sleek PINK decor all around and a modern vibe, this salon surpassed all my expectations. Each station is supplied with a comfortable bed that curves to the natural valleys of your spine, making for a therapeutic experience. Plus, they supply you with a fluffy blanket to keep you warm if it becomes too cool.

My initial set took 2 hours to complete. God blessed me with full lashes, because my technician said she could lash me for 3 hours with all my natural lashes. But with 2 hours, she was able to achieve a wonderful set that was very full and lush. She asked me what type of look I would like to achieve. And me being extra, said to make me as glam as possible! So, I received the Classic Set with a D-curl extension. As for the fill-in appointment: that took about an hour to complete. Same process, just not as long. And I go in soon for my next one. 🙂

How much do they cost?

If you are not local to Kentucky, I would recommend contacting your nearest salon for pricing. However, for all my Kentuckiana gals: at DekaLash, a classic set of lashes for new clients are regularly $79.99 or $169.99 for volume lashes, which is already a fabulous deal. However, if you mention promo code TYPEASTYLE at checkout, you can get a full set of classic lashes for $60 or volume lashes for $150. (P.S. This is a FANTASTIC deal, even better than the current promotion on Groupon. See, there are perks to following me 😉 ).

Refills (or fill-ins) are $70 and lash removal is $30. They also offer brow tinting for $24.

Also, there are memberships available for those who like their lashes looking fly 24/7. I highly recommend checking out there membership options found HERE, as it is a great way to save money AND .Sign up during your first visit and you’ll save 50% off your membership fee for the first month. Plus, the $40 sign up fee is completely waived!

How long is the appointment?

A full application will take about 2 hours, which may seem like a long time, but the technicians are fabulous and make not comfortable for you during the entire process, and the results are so worth it! Refills take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how many lashes you have lost and how long you have gone in-between appointments.

How long do they last?

The extensions are designed to last as long as your natural lashes. So when your lashes naturally fall out, as does the glued-on extension with it. I recommend getting refills every 2 to 3 weeks, as it keeps the lashes full and symmetrical.

What is the daily maintenance?

Aftercare of your lashes are very important to maintain healthy natural lashes and to help you maintain your extensions for their intended lifespan. Make sure you clean them daily, with oil-free makeup remover and/or oil free face wash. I also brush my lashes with a clean wand (like the ones found in mascara) at least 2-3 times (or more) a day. This will help tame any wonky lashes and keep the lashes clean from debris. Other than that, the daily maintenance is very minimal.

Do they feel weird or hurt?

This is the most asked question! With the lashes used at DekaLash, they are so lightweight, I rarely notice they are even there. Aside from the occasional poking of a misplaced or flipped lash, there is never any pain. And that is current simply with a quick brushing.

During the appointment, it may seem a little uncomfortable with the tape used to protect your bottom lashes from getting glued, however, there is never any pain. When opening my eyes for the first time after my full set application, I didn’t even notice anything was glued on my eyes.

Do you still wear mascara?

When I am reaching the point of needing a refill, I sometimes apply mascara to the tips of my lashes to add some volume that has decreased from the lifecycle of the lashes. However, I don’t need mascara until that point, as the extensions provide enough volume to make up for that. It is important to make sure you are NOT using waterproof mascara when you use, as the chemical of waterproof makeup products can deteriorate the glue, causing the extensions to fall.

What is the difference between Classic and Volume?

A Classic set includes only 1 extension per natural lash. The Volume lashes are light weight enough to add more than one to each natural lash. These are perfect for women who have sparse lashes or want a thick, very glam look.

While I cannot attest to the Volume lashes, I myself have a set of Classic Lashes with the D-curl, which gives me enough length and curl to notice I have extensions and enough volume without looking like a drag queen.

Are you pleased?

To stay I am happy with them is an understatement. What most people don’t mention is the CONFIDENCE lash extensions give you. Because I work from home, I often go a lot of days without any makeup on and a ball cap to cover my messy hair. But now with lash extensions, I don’t feel like a bum. They give me volume and length to bring out the feminine features of my face and make me feel pretty, even in my sweatpants. This is what I love most about getting lash extensions: that I don’t NEED to wear makeup all the time to feel decent. And because of the demands of my side-gig, I can hop on my instastories at any time with NO FILTER!

Selfie-Ready thanks to DekaLash!

A Few Tips:

• Don’t get your lashes wet for 24 hours.
• Don’t use saunas, steam rooms, or tanning beds for 48 hours.
• Don’t use cleansers, makeup removers, or moisturizers that contain oils or solvents.
• Don’t rub your eyes or pull on your lash extensions.
• Don’t manually curl or perm your eyelash extensions.

I love my lashes and know you will too! If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to comment below, email me, or DM me on Instagram and I would be so happy to help!

*This is a sponsored post brought to you by DekaLash Louisville. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*

If you’ve been following along, you know I am obsessed with my spray tans. I get one once a week, and I always go to Sun Tan City. And in honor of FREE SPRAY TAN WEEK, I am sharing all my secrets for my pre-spray tan routine.

Shower

The first thing I do to prep for a spray tan is shower. You can shower hours before, or immediately prior. You just cannot shower or by near any water 4-6 hours after getting your spray tan. So, to prepare for this, I often shower right before I go. Because I usually tan at the last hours of the night, I am to get all freshened up, removing any natural oils my skin and hair product, allowing for a fresh canvas for the tan. This provides my tan a good 8+ hours of setting. The longer the wait to shower after, the better, so showering right beforehand is beneficial.

Exfoliate

One of the most important steps to my pre-spray tan routine is exfoliation. In order to make for an even tan, you have to remove all the dead skin (and prior spray tan if you tan often). It will make your skin smooth and prevent blotching and an uneven tan. I like to call this a “dirty” tan. Dirty is bad. Clean is good- so exfoliate!

I highly recommend using a sugar scrub with a loofa when you shower beforehand. I use the brand Tree Hut from Target (found HERE). They have many scents, my favorites being the Original Shea and Tropical Mango. It makes for a healthy scrub without damaging your skin, all while nourishing it at the same time with the shea.

Shaving

Because of my deep European roots, I have very dark hair. Therefore, I shave every single day. So, this extra step in the pre-spray tan routine is not inconvenient for me. Nevertheless, I highly recommend shaving beforehand. This provides for a smooth surface for the tan to adhere to, and will also add an additional sense of exfoliation to your skin as well. I use Suave Coconut conditioner as my shaving cream. As weird as it seems, it works much better than foamy shaving cream, leaving my skin smooth and nourished, plus the bottle goes a longer way with a much cheaper price.

Lotion

Because of my eczema, I have very dry skin, and therefore, apply lotion to my entire body after every shower. However, the only exclusion to is right before a spray tan. In order to prevent any barrier to your skin, you cannot apply any lotion prior to spray tanning. This provides for a clean surface for the tan to adhere without any interference. However, I do recommend moisturizing after your tan (after your first post-tan shower). This will help the skin from drying, which can cause the spray tan to flake. Lotion will help lengthen the spray tan and keep your skin healthy.

Primer

There is an exception to the lotion rule: and that is priming lotion. Sun Tan City offers several options to pre-spray tan primer to help prepare your skin for the spray. They assist with lengthening the life of your tan, keeping your skin nourished and healthy. My favorite: the Designer Skin CC Sunless Primer. It helps with eleminating the odor that often comes with a spray tan, intensifies the bronzing elements of the spray tan (and UV bronzers if you double dip), and tightens skin for longer-lasting tans. You can purchase at your local Sun Tan City (found HERE).

Barrier Cream

Another exception to the lotion rule is barrier cream. At each Sun Tan City, you have access to complementary barrier cream in each spray tan room. The name says it all- it provides a barrier when applied to any part of your body that you do not want the spray tan to adhere to. I apply this to my hand, nails, bottom of feet, and sometimes ankles, elbows, and knees. Essentially, any place of your body that acts as an extreme magnet for the tan and that you want to PREVENT from tanning.

So head over to your local Sun Tan City to take part in FREE SPRAY TAN WEEK (Monday, Sept. 24th through Sunday, Sept. 30th). Get a FREE spray tan in any of the spray tan booths, get weekend pricing for add-ons (double pass of legs, hydration), join any spray tan membership for free (no one-time membership fee), and so much more! See further details of this amazing promotion HERE.

Happy tanning!!

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*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Sun Tan City. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*

The North is a direction. The South is a lifestyle

As a young girl born and raised in Kentucky, I was taught the ways of the South. My mama didn’t raise no fool- and because of that, I have instilled in me a way of life fueled by sweet tea, biscuits, and bourbon. 😉

When Swanky Shoppe reached out to me to build a collaborating relationship, I knew it was a definite yes! Not only it this local store ran by two fabulous women with go-getter attitudes, which I can totally relate! Plus, their brand encompasses the style of a true southern woman- with ruffles & pearls galour, sweet home decor, smockings for the kiddos, dapper garb for the gents, and so much more. 

And one of my favorite brands they carry is Draper James.  It is so exciting to have access to this well-known brand in my small hometown. Reese Witherspoon knew what she was doing when she started this name, and I’m obsessed her versatility in style. Along with her fabulous clothing brand, Reese curated a fabulous book, Whiskey in a Teacup, detailing all things southern- between recipes, parties, style, and stories seeping with tradition.  

And in honor of her new release, I am sharing my own version of this Southern bible with 10 things I have learned from being raised in the South, all while rocking a Draper James outfit, courtesy of Swanky Shoppe!

1. Hospitality

Between whiskey, wine, and line dancing, us Southerners know how to party! And growing up, I witnessed my mother host all sorts of events, always carrying them out with such ease. She consistently welcomed in our guests with a sense of hospitality, and I always strived to do the same. The way to any Southerner’s heart is through food, and whipping up the best meal always makes for a great event. And when you add festive drinks, decor, and of course A THEME, then you have yourself a PARTAYYY.

2. I don’t have an accent, y’all do

There is one thing EVERY southern girl has, and it is a southern drawl (and a strand of pearls, but I will save that for #3). Y’all, bless your heart, as all get out, over yonder: just to name a few souther-isms. But there is something so endearing about the voice of a southern gal. The accent is full of love, comfort, and a sense of “home”.

3. When in Doubt, Overdress

You know when you’re going to an event, and your girlfriends always ask, “what are you planning on wearing?” Because no one wants to seem to out of place! But my advise is always this: when in doubt, always overdress. Because it is better to be overdressed than under! Something a southern girl always takes pride in is her fashion sense. We love to get dolled up, with extravagant accessories, overdone hairdos, and make-up galore. Oh, and pearls go with anything- faux, real, whatever floats your boat.

4. Monogram Everything

During adolescence, when a girl has a major crush on the cute boy in class, she usually daydreams of being a wife. She will scribble her name on her paper, and add his last name to the end of hers. But us southern girls take it one step further. We draw out what our monogram would be, because if it doesn’t look right, that is a definite deal-breaker! If it isn’t breathing, we monogram it. Our bags, pillows, robes, sweaters, just about anything you can imagine, And thanks to Swanky Shoppe, I can get all my monogram needs personalized on just about anything! Follow their website HERE to check out their large selection on monogramable goodies.

5. Mind Your Manners

What is great about the South is the friendliness you encounter by just about everyone. We great each other with a smile and always say “yes, sir” or “yes ma’am”. Our parents taught us to always behave, especially in public, or else we would get a whoopin’ when we got home. We write thank you notes every chance we get, because that’s proper, y’all. We aren’t just a buncha hillbillies- we know etiquette just as much as Queen E herself.

6. The bigger the hair, the closer to Jesus

I grew up watching my mom wear velcro rollers each and every day. It gave her the extra volume she needed and curl she didn’t naturally have. Accompanied with an excess amount of hairspray, this southern girl knows how to tease her way to heaven!  Not only is our hair big, but so is our hearts for Jesus. We may drink a little, but we sure do love our Lord! As a southern girl raised Christian, I walk by faith. Without my God, I am nothing, and I think the Lord each and every day for his mercy and grace.

7. Mama Knows Best

Speaking of Mama, every southern house is ran by a strong, southern women. She shows love through home-cooked meals, knows when to fight back and when to show compassion. She is well put together, and never sleeps. Everyone minds her and always hugs her goodbye. This woman goes by Mama. While I may be Daddy’s girl, I always looked to my mom for guidance, especially when it came to learning how to be a lady. She knew how to cook, how to throw a dinner party, and always dressed with great style. A lot of who I am now I attribute to my momma.

8. It’s A Family Tradition

Every family has their own traditions. And they usually arise around the holidays. As a typical southern gal, Christmas decor goes up on November 1st! I am obsessed with this winter holiday and love to go all out! Here in the south, we love to be “extra” with our Christmas traditions. Christmas is the best time of year. And with that come lot of traditions. Each and every family has their own way of doing things, which makes us all positively unique. I love hearing all the different traditions for all different families, as it gives me new ideas for which to add to our family.

9. Raised on Sweet Tea and Mint Juleps

One of my favorite memories growing up is spending summer days at my grandma’s house, playing outside and swimming in their pool. And a big glass of iced sweet tea always accompanied these hot days. My grandmother makes the BEST sweet tea: strong, sweet, and southern (just how I like my men 😉 ). No one can surpass my grandmothers recipe, and I look forward to having a glass every time I go and visit.

Are you really southern if you don’t put 2 lbs of sugar in your tea?! And are you really from Kentucky if you don’t like Mint Juleps? This Southern gal isn’t just raised on sweet tea, but also on mint juleps. Being in the heart of Bourbon Country, this Kentucky Kocktail is a classic, and especially enjoyed during the 2nd-best holiday of the year: the Kentucky Derby. Inspired by a combination of these 2 southern specialties, below is my recipe for a twisted tea you will love all year long!

10. Whiskey In a Teacup

And finally, being a southern women isn’t just about being raised in the south. It is about fighting for what you believe in. While we agree with chivalry, we thrive off independence, because Mama didn’t raise no fool. Being a southern woman means being strong-willed, not backing down, and making your voice heard. We may be delicately put together on the outside, but on the inside, we can kick your a** like whiskey does!

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You can shop this look by visiting the Swanky Shoppe in Elizabethtwon, KY or by placing a phone order by calling 270-307-6367. And while you’re at it, visit their Instagram HERE and give them a follow.

*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Swanky Shoppe in Elizabethtown, KY. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience.*

Peace. Love. Nashville!

My second favorite place to be (right behind being at home with my family & friends) is the fabulous city of Nashville. I go there often for work, but just as much for play too! Every time we visit, I always try to find new places to go, restaurants to try, and places to shop. However, I do have my usual stops that I MUST visit. And one of these stops is Coffee and Coconuts in Franklin, TN- right outside of Nashville. This is hands down my most FAVORITE coffee shop. Not only does it make me feel like I’m about to walk onto the beach, but they have a vast menu with fabulous latte flavors. My favorite: the Banana Mocha Latte- with coconut milk, of course. Seriously, it tastes EXACTLY like a chocolate covered banana. Something about banana-flavored coffee that gets me every time.

Aside from the fabulous coffee selections, the aesthetic is what I am really obsessed with! They did such a great job at creating a beach-environment without being cheesy. The decor is sleek and simply, with a tropical and MODERN flare- styled with hanging hammock-style chairs, bright teal floors, and white shiplap. And the bathrooms are a MUST SEE: the women’s is covered from floor to ceiling in flamingo wallpaper. Totally Instagram-worthy!

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Top: Amazon | Shorts: Old Navy | Sandals: Target | Bag: SHEIN | Sunnies: Target |                                         Earrings: Swanky Shoppe (Lisi Lerch HERE | Dupes HERE)

I can’t think of a better way to send-off the summer than with a feature of this costal cafe. But don’t let the seasons top you- they are open all year long! So the next time you’re in the Nashville-area, make sure you hit up Coffee and Coconuts. And tell them Type A Style sent you. 😉

A few months ago, I had the absolute pleasure of attending an influencer tour arranged by Shelby County Tourism. Y’all know life has been crazy lately, so I am just now getting to this post, but you know, life happens.

Anyways…

Just a little background on the beautiful Shelby County, Kentucky. Just on the outskirts of Louisville, Shelbyville is known as the “American Saddlebred Capital of the World.”  And after seeing the beautiful rolling green hills and elegant horse farms, it was hard to believe we were just 15 minutes outside of the city. It was definitely obvious we were in God’s land. Being from a small town in Kentucky myself, I was familiar with the typical ways: lots of farm land, everybody knows everybody, and a sense of home. And Shelby County definitely thrived on that! Throughout the day, we were able to experience a taste of Kentucky and extreme hospitality unlike any other. And I am here to share with you the fabulous places and sites in the wonderful Shelby County.

Undulata Farm

Our first stop was at the gorgeous and elaborately-historic Undulata Farm. Here resides lots of rich history and many World-Champions Show Horses. When most people think of Kentucky, they are associated with the thought of horse racing. But the horses at Undulata Farm are trained much differently, in more of a “show” style than for racing purposes.

We were greeted by live bluegrass music, accompanied by a full spread of delicious breakfast snacks and beverages. The farm’s mansion was so intricate and bright, with a sweet vintage vibe. 

After the welcome breakfast, we had the pleasure of meeting the four-legged friends that made up this farm, two of which were a few weeks old. Being from Kentucky, horses are always around, but being close and personal with them really brought out the southern girl in me. 

Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass

If you follow my Stories on Instagram, you know I visit the Outlet Shoppes often. I used to work 15 minutes away from this outdoor small, so I would come here often during my lunch break for a little retail therapy. And I definitely wasn’t against visiting this unfamiliar site for a little shopping. I of course stopped at all my usuals: Kate Spade, J. Crew, Francesca’s, and Loft. We then finished off with lunch at Johnny Rockets for some fabulous cheeseburgers, cheese fries, and the most AMAZING chocolate milkshake EVER!!

Urban Loft

One of my favorite stops during the trip was a 5000 Sq.Ft. urban loft off the downtown strip. A local contractor took an old, historic building and completely transformed it into an edgy-industrial loft for his family. And they rent out this site through Airbnb. Being an interior designer at heart, I was absolutely stunned at the level of creativity throughout this home. The designers took lots of risk, giving me lots of inspiration!!

Jeptha Creed Distillery

We finished off the night with a tour and tasting at Jeptha Creed Distillery. What is REALLY cool about this distillery is that it was started by a mother-daughter duo. #TheFutureIsFemale. We enjoyed cocktails, viewed the gorgeous grounds, and partied the night away! And y’all, we totally pigged-out on fried chicken courtesy of Claudia Sanders Restaurant, which was absolutely AMAZING! Founded by the famous Colonel Sanders and his wife, Claudia, this restaurant is one of the first to serve the “Original Recipe” fried chicken from KFC. I literally couldn’t eat enough of it, and NEED to go visit the restaurant sometime soon to satisfy my cravings since.

Thanks again to Chenelle, Katie, and the rest of the tourism staff who made this experience a fabulous one! They thought of every detail: including a detailed itinerary (which this Type-A girl appreciated), lots of yummy food, and the cutest welcome basket ever!

Overall, our trip was beyond amazing. We had a fabulous time and I was extremely impressed with the ample amount of hospitality and fun we experienced. So next time you’re in the area, or if you’re looking for a little getaway stay, head over to Shelby County, Kentucky for an exquisite taste of Kentucky. Visit their tourism website HERE for more information and suggestions on your stay.

| SHOP MY LOOKS |

*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Shelby County Tourism. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.*

A couple weeks ago, I had the pleasure of hosting a shopping party at the fabulous new Kendra Scott store in Oxmoor Center in Louisville, Kentucky. This was my first time visiting the store, but it DEFINITELY will not be my last. The store had this gorgeous ora, so much so that you could spot it from a mile away. And the girls that work there are absolutely FABULOUS. Seriously, the sweetest girls, so much that it made me want to put in an application. Are y’all hiring?

Because this store was so big, they had lots of gorgeous pieces to choose from. My personal favorite- the Diane Gold Statement Earrings in Gold Filigree (featured in my look). Because I am such a golden girl, these babies caught my eye right away. Plus, they are a statement, so I couldn’t pass these up! They are available in silver and rose gold as well, so you can grab your favorite pair HERE. And the matching cuff bracelet is totally on my wishlist! Here are a few more of my faves featured in the store currently.

Shopping Party Faves

| SHOP MY LOOK |

It was such an honor to work with such a fabulous brand and hang with all the Kendra ladies. So the next time you’re in Louisville, hit up the Kendra Scott store in Oxmoor Mall.

After moving twice in the past year, I have found that it is definitely not for me! And you would think this Type A girl would have it all together, but that is a total misconception.