Your all-access pass to stories, style, and inspiration from the inside out. Here, I share my personal adventures — from travel tales and wellness rituals to the latest trends, beauty tips, and must-have finds that make every trip (and every day) a little brighter. Whether you’re here to explore new destinations, pack smarter, or simply get inspired, The Insider is your space to discover, dream, and live well — one post at a time.
Live Your Yes
Every day is an opportunity to discover something new! From traveling to exotic destinations or simply enjoying a relaxing day at the beach. Embracing the spontaneity and unpredictability of life can lead to the most amusing stories. Who knew that getting lost in a foreign city could lead to finding the absolutely best gelato? Or that a rainy day could turn into a DIY fashion project? For those of us that love spontaneous weekend getaways as much as organizing and packing for an international flight, having helpful travel essentials eliminates what can sometimes feel stressful or chaotic. Effortless adventure meets intentional living.
Stylish Must-Have’s- Adventure Looks Good on You!
As you embark on daily escapades, or an exciting trip, it’s key to look and feel your best. Showing up radiant and vibrant is empowering and feels good. Its also an opportunity to highlight your personality, creativity and unique style. Feeling and looking your best can have a positive influence on mindset, increase confidence, boost self-esteem and improve social interactions. Having a few stylish sets, and essentials can make all the difference. Here are a few of my go- to favorites.
Trending oversized sunglasses. Whether you’re strolling through sunny streets or relaxing by the pool, the right pair of shades add both function and flair to your travel look. They don’t just protect your eyes from the sun — they bring an instant touch of chic to any outfit. Sunglasses can elevate your style as you enjoy a cappuccino at your favorite café. I was so inspired after a trip to beautiful Italy -I purchased a cappuccino machine when I returned home! There is something special about sipping a cappuccino while recalling wonderful holiday memories and planning new ones!
Don’t forget a versatile scarf—perfect for a pop of color and functional for any trip. Many churches require shoulders to be covered. I always pack alight weight scarf in my bag to ensure I won’t miss an opportunity to take a peek at the absolutely gorgeous architecture of some of the most stunning churches in the world. A shawl can be used on the plane or anytime you feel chilly. Simply slip over your shoulders. A versatile bandana can be transformed into a cool headband after dipping in a cold fountain. On a hot summer day this serves as a refreshing and quick cool down.
Hiking along the beautiful Amalfi Coast? Camera, water bottle, selfie stick …check. Hiking boots, shorts and sun protective clothing with UV- blockers are a necessity. Ultraviolet protective factor ( UPC) clothing help protect your skin from the suns harmful rays. There are comfortable, light, and somewhat stylish options. These shirts, pants, hats and other accessories can be used on camping and fishing trips as well.
Travel days are full of movement and magic — from wandering cobblestone streets and exploring hidden gems to enjoying everything from laid-back cafés to elegant dinner spots. The best trips strike a balance between comfort and style, so packing versatile pieces that take you seamlessly from daytime adventures to evening dining makes all the difference.
I always pack a couple of classic black tanks. As a native New Yorker black is definitely my go to choice. A nice tank is super versatile and can be styled various ways. Pair with linen pants, a cute skirt, walking shorts, or with jeans. Tanks can be layered providing the flexible to remove layers as necessary depending on the weather throughout the day.
You’ll definitely need a hat or two especially when traveling during the summer months or to warmer climates. I am obsessed with this wide rimmed sun hat with wind lanyard. It features a strong anti-UV function with UPF 80+. It’s stylish, folds easily, keeps its shape and provides excellent sun protection.
I also have a 100 %cotton hat in both black and natural. It has a fold over brim which makes this travel hat an awesome choice for cruises, or brunch. The Scala hat has a drawstring to ensure a great fit. It also folds easily, provides protection from the sun, with a UPF 50 +premium protection. This protection blocks 98% of UV radiation emitted by the sun. The cotton hats are totally washable. Simply place it in a laundry bag, wash and let the hat air dry.
I use EltaMD UV Clear tinted sunscreen daily. It contains a hint of color and blends easily under and or over any foundational makeup. This product provides overall protection, is lightweight and oil free. TSA approved travel containers come in handy. They can be used to easily carry shampoo, conditioner, lotions and cleansers. For eye cream, toner, foundation, vitamin c serum, and sunscreen I use leak proof travel jars. You can pack just the right amount of any product you use for the duration of your trip. These travel containers and jars definitely are space savers. I like to travel light, but smart.
The Baggallini tolietry bag has plenty of room for all your products, various zippers, interior and exterior pockets, opens and folds nicely for any kind of trip. It’s lightweight, water resistant and has a built in hanger for ease. No need to take all your products out. Simply use what you need and and return to the bag. I use the Baggallini back pack, crossbody tote, small cross body bag and anti-theft, money belt, passport holder. The money belt, passport organizer has RFID blocking protection. Baggallini is my favorite go-to for travel ready accessories that provide security, organization and style.
Life & Love: A Balancing Act
Adventures of the heart extend beyond travel and fashion. Creating a balance between work and love can feel like walking a tightrope- both deserve your time, energy, and passion. Its easy for one to overshadow the other. The key is being present. When working give your full focus. When you’re with your partner, be fully there. Set boundaries, communicate openly and celebrate small moments together to help keep both worlds thriving. Love is not a distraction. It can often provide the fuel that keeps you grounded, inspired, and reminded of what really matters in life.
This balance between life and love is somewhat of an art form and takes practice cultivating. That being said…embrace playful banter and those heartwarming unexpected moments with your loved ones, because they’re what makes life so wonderfully exciting and fun.
Go ahead and plan a date night, but also make it a point to enjoy any unexpected twists or surprises. Stuck in traffic on the way ? Listen to your favorite music, or playlist and reminisce about how you first met- that unexpected magical spark, the small details that seemed insignificant at the time but now mean everything. Perhaps it was a glance or flirty wink across a crowded room, a shared laugh over something silly, or the kind of conversation that made the world suddenly fade away. Looking back, those early moments carry a mix of nostalgia and warmth, a reminder of how love, friendship or a connection can begin so effortlessly and change everything in life that follows. Sometimes, its in those first encounters that we find the beginnings of our favorite stories. Before you know it, you’ll arrive at your destination with a happy joyful heart paying no mind to the delay you may have encountered.
Forgot to make reservations? It happens to the best of us! Instead of stressing, turn it into an adventure. Check out local hidden gems or walk-ins that don’t take reservations. Those spontaneous finds often become the most memorable and delicious meals. If every restaurant is packed, order takeout from one of your favorites, set up a cozy dinner at home, or your hotel room. Make it feel intentional with music, candles or a great view.
I always keep a blanket, cooler, and pic-nic supplies in my car to make those unexpected adventures easy and fun. Spread out a comfy beach blanket, enjoy your take out meal and that glorious sunset. These unexpected moments can foster even deeper connections and provide plenty of laughter for years to come. Go with flow…and don’t sweat the small stuff. The best dates can be the spontaneous unplanned ones. Its all about the company and positivity.
So, take life by the reins! The journey may have its ups and downs, but with the right mindset and a few must- have products, each day can be fun filled adventure, one that is worth writing about tomorrow morning in a gratitude journal. If you haven’t journaled before, try it. Simply start by writing five people or things you are grateful for. You’ll be surprised as to how this daily practice can truly transform your attitude and journey through life. Remember, life is meant to be lived fully, so get up, dress the part and always don that happy adventurous spirit!