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.

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*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

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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.

It seems like the most recent craze has been all about graphic tees. Thanks to Pinterest & Etsy, these clever wearables are the hottest thing! And I am totally jumping on that train.

Summertime is officially here! And if you’re anything like me and haven’t had a chance to get your Vitamin D naturally from the summer rays, I have your solution. I’m proudly partnering with Sun Tan City to provide you with that perfect summer glow.

When I say shopping is a hobby- I ain’t lying. (Just ask my husband 😉) But I would also consider this hobby a skill. It isn’t easy shopping on a budget. I work hard for my income, so I am not one to waste it all away on a pricey piece just for the “brand”. However, I am willing to use all the shopping secrets I have stored over time that allow me to get all my favorites within my budget.

A few weeks ago, I went a little crazy at J. Crew Factory. Oops!! But I snagged some awesome deals that I am so excited to share with y’all! And right now, their entire site is on sale- plus an additional $25 off all $100+ orders using promo code MORE.

My favorite purchase from this haul is this ADORABLE pink and orange plaid skirt from J. Crew Factory. The peplum-fit is so flattering and bright colors are so much fun!