Nine Favorite Things.

Nine Favorite Things

Happy mid-summer you guys! We’re halfway through July and as usual, I am not surprised by how quickly the time is flying. To everyone who’s already talking about the pumpkin spice latte, I love that you’re excited for all things fall, but it’s too damn soon. I stand firm on my thinking that we embrace summer all the way through August. Apples throughout the beautiful month of September. And then overwhelm ourselves with all things pumpkin spice and autumn come October.

We have to pace ourselves people. Live the seasons, don’t rush through them!

Of course, I’ll probably be the first to break my rules. I’ll also say, I’m certainly looking forward to what’s to come this fall. We’re launching something new that I love so deeply – I cannot wait to share!

Ok, back to today, this week, and July! We’re deep into these summer days and I’m yet again feeling excited about more summer travel and upcoming projects. I have a handful of quick work trips that just popped up, so those are always fun!

I’ve definitely been going through a mix of good and bad emotions over the last few weeks. I feel so much excitement, but also have so much frustration, self-doubt, worry, and anxiety all at the same time. But, I’m really, really trying to live by the mindset of “mind over matter” and bring a more positive vibe to the table all around. I’m realizing more and more each day that so much of what you bring into the world reflects on you. How you’re doing internally, both within yourself and in regards to work and your team.

If mentally and physically things are good, everything else is just better, easier, more manageable, and not as much of a “crisis”. I’ve lived so much of my life in “crisis” mode (as my mom loves to point out to me). When it isn’t actually a crisis. Slowly, I’m working to change that. I think someone can have a lot of stress and feel a lot of anxiety. But if internally they’re strong and confident, and mentally they have the tools to work through the negative thoughts, they can deal with their “crisis” in a much more positive, and manageable way.

Things that have been helping. Really good podcasts (see what I’ve been listening to below). Fresh flowers (also see below). My candles (get in the habit of burning candles y’all, nothing is better). Oslo’s hugs (they melt my cold soul as my dad would tell you). And my morning/nighttime routines (good skincare + legs up the wall every night). And possibly most importantly for me, getting out for a morning hike every day. We have afternoon thunderstorms and rain most days throughout the summer, but the mornings are usually sunny.

Grateful for the sun, I need it!

That was pretty random, but I was just talking with my mom about all of this, then started writing. Maybe you’ll find some value from something I said, maybe not, but just a little Sunday self-reflection I guess.

Anyway, some highlights from the week! We had a ton of dark days the week of the 4th. But then Monday was just the prettiest. My younger brother, Red, and his girlfriend, Hailey, were home. And for once I got to spend a little time with just the two of them. Red just purchased an investment home in southern California (the kid is always traveling – not much time to be in one place). He took some of the furniture that we are replacing in the redesign. He wiped me pretty clean so my house is feeling empty. But I’m so happy I got to see them. And honestly, they did me a favor by taking the excess furniture.

Even with the darker afternoons, I managed to get a few recipes photographed that I’m really excited to share this week. Thursday was spent in back-to-back calls, but all of them felt exciting. I really can’t wait for some of the things we’re working on to come to fruition. And lastly, I’ve been talking with my mom about planning another trip before summer ends. Either back to south Florida or going big and heading to somewhere like Tuscany for a week.

Other than that, nothing new. Oh well besides the fact that Oslo just gets cuter by day. If you follow along on Instagram you already know how obsessed I am with him. He’s just the sweetest.

Lastly, thank you guys for your comments last week. I know the designer pieces I share are not for everyone. But I’m so happy that most of you are like me and enjoy looking at everything, the high-end and the affordable. It makes me so happy knowing this is a fun post for you all to read. That’s my goal at the end of the day, and why I spend most of the week putting these posts together!

Enjoy another round of Sunday favs!

1. Things I’m loving, wanting, and excited to try.

loving…Set Active. Living in their crewneck right now. I order this crewneck pullover and the sweats. Their tees are soo good too.

loving…summer peaches. I was sent peaches from Tenerelli Orchids (Peaches LA) in California and you guys, they might just be some of the best peaches I’ve ever had. The first box was softer but so sweet, juicy, and delicious. And the color! So, so, so pretty. Expect lots of peach recipes in the coming weeks.

everything in my cart…LOW priced. This Zara raffia bag is 50% off and it’s the perfect beach/pool bag. This satin midi slip dress from Vince is a killer Nordstrom sale find. And lastly, I’m eyeing this Retro Nuptse quilted down jacket from the North Face for this fall/winter

listening to…Lauryn & Michael Bosstick on Move with Heart. This episode with Melissa Wood is so good. Learn about routines, working with your partner, and the most important things to remember in life. The episode covers a lot but is so full of little helpful gems of advice and knowledge.

dreaming of going to…Bora Bora. I saw photos on Instagram this week and it looks like a magical, tropical destination. My dream stay is with the Four Seasons Bora Bora. The property looks stunning.

reading… “A Sense of Appreciation Is the Single Most Sustainable Motivator at Work“. This isn’t a book, it’s an article, but it really resonated with me. For anyone in a leadership position, it’s a must-read. This is something I’ve struggled with in the past, especially with my mom. I’m slowly learning that in order to have an excited team that really wants to put in the work, you have to give them a little love too. No, not a little love, a lot of love.

You’re only as good as your team, so treat them well, appreciate them, and make working together fun. I am no pro and I have bad days all the time, but this is something I’m learning and working so hard to practice within the HBH team! But even within life. Just appreciate the people around you!

loving…The Little Market. Been carrying their Raffia East West Tote all week. It’s super cute and holds so much! Also, I just got a new set of their hand-etched glassware from Mexico. It’s been my favorite product of theirs for years. I love these glasses and have them in the tall and short sizes. Each purchase supports Rose Ann Hall Designs artisans in Mexico.

Each purchase supports Rose Ann Hall Designs artisans in Mexico.

following…Tiffany Howell of Night Palm Interior Design. For interior design inspo.

loving…Triarchy. Love the Josephine cropped denim jacket especially.

ordered…Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens. Kind of odd to mention here, but I ordered these a few weeks ago and have been loving them. I use them to write out my day every morning. Love all the colors. 

shopping…Stone and Strand. New to me fine jewelry (with a more affordable price point). So many pretty pieces.

listening to…10 tips for Efficient + Organized Packing on Life with Marianna. These are some very detailed packing tips. Not all are necessary, but I loved listening to this. Marianna is super organized with her packing and gave a lot of really helpful tips/ideas.

shopping…Bella Cucina. Really pretty home and kitchen finds.

burning…Diiptyque La Droguerie Odor-Removing Candle. This is meant to remove odor from your home. So if you cooked funky food the night prior or are looking to make the boy’s room smell pleasant, try lighting this. I haven’t tested it yet, but it’s on its way.

ordered…new cocktail glasses. I got these fun ripple cups by Sophie Lou Jacobsen on Shopbop. Then from CB2, some pretty double old fashioned glasses. Also, picked up these cute optic glasses in both the smaller tasting glass and the double old fashioned glass. And then lastly, the neat double old fashioned glass. New cocktails are coming soon. 

following…Vinrelle. Following them on Instagram but using their website to rent “borrow” designer handbags and jewelry. I love this concept for designer pieces that you maybe just want for one event or dinner out. Borrow it, use it, then send it back.

loving…LV Diamonds collection. Wow, wow, wow. These pieces are timeless, elegant, and so pretty. I think my favorite is the V ring.

everything in my cart…HIGH priced. I adore this Cholé Maxi Leather Blazer. The color is so good, especially for fall. The Sea Kiara Top would be so cute with sandals over the weekend or with jeans + pumps for dinner out. How pretty is this Gucci 18-karat rose gold diamond ring, I’d love it. This Cholé knit cropped sweater is the sweetest. I’d style it with a mini skirt or linen shorts in the summer, then easily transition it into fall with jeans, maxi skirts, and boots.

Surprisingly, I think this sequined midi wrap skirt by Rotate Birger Christensen in pink is so pretty. I’m not usually someone that would ever pick a pink outfit. This Fendi crossbody bag reminds me of my Nonnie. She had something similar, which only makes me want this more. I love this dainty Alice + Olivia cutout mini dress. Dress it up for dinner and down for daytime. I’d live in this cozy Ulla Johnson jacket this fall. Also, love the vest in sierra too. And then this Cult Gia crossbody bag is so unique. I think I’d love it to add an element of fun to a blazer look. This Celiné cardigan is so cute for summer days and nights. I love that it’s hooded. This Versace swim bikini is so cute. I love it for summer days or vacations.

drinking…Chamberlain Coffee. I’ve been so presently surprised by this purchase. I have it on subscription. It’s such a good coffee, I love the Fancy Mousse Espresso blend. Also ordered, the Wild Fox Hazelnut Coffee blend to try something new.

curious to try…Neom Organics intensive skin treatment candle. Love the idea behind this candle. When the wax is melted, it can also be used on the skin as a moisturizer.

watching…Love & Gelato. Cute if you love a good cheesy, but sweet movie.

Listening to…Hosting Secrets with Event Planners Stefanie Cove and Neely Shell on Lipstick on the Rim. I am mid-way through this but love it. A must-listen if you enjoy entertaining or are hosting a summer party (big or small), or planning a wedding.

2. Favorite summer peach recipes.

Cinnamon Maple Brown Butter Blackberry Peach Crisp

Pesto Peach Chicken in White Wine with Burrata

Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Brown Sugar Peach Shortcakes

Prosciutto Balsamic Peach Chicken with Burrata and Basil

Peach Burrata Crostini with Burst Cherry Tomato Vinaigrette

Peaches and Cream Pretzel Pie

Frozen Aperol Peach Margarita

3. What I’m loving from CB2.

4. Favorite questions of the week.

q: remind us of your go-to brand for basic tees.
a: I actually just ordered the TNA tee from Aritzia in multiple colors. it’s the perfect basic. Eterne tees are my favorite though. The material is soo soft. They have the best basics in general, but all of their tees are awesome. I wear the baby tee in ivory all the time. Also, Aritzia has a huge selection of colors, sizes, and fits as well. Sorry so much on t-shirts, but I love a good basic tee!!

q: do you have a favorite perfume?
a: I’ve never been into perfume, but I was recently given Phlur and it’s one of the only perfumes I enjoy. I love their Lost Cause scent. I need to try their new apricot scent for summer!

q: what’s with the legs up the wall? Should we all be doing this?
a: Follow Melissa Wood-Tepperberg for more on this, but it helps increase circulation and reduce the inflammation from being on my legs all day. It’s also supposed to help with sleep quality.

q: is content creation a lot of work? Curious after hearing your fam say you work a lot (:
a: I mean, yeah for sure. I spend hours, many times days, working on one recipe. Then I have to photograph it, create the video content, create the recipe post for the website, edit the content, write social captions, and all that good stuff. BUT don’t take that the wrong way, I still love it, but yes, it’s a lot of work too. And there’s so much more that goes into my day-to-day that isn’t just cooking. I cook during the day for the light (I use natural light to film and photograph). This means that nights are filled with everything else: e-mails, posting to social, editing, writing, planning, meetings, etc. Any type of content creation involves a good amount of behind-the-scenes work that people don’t see. Again though, I feel blessed to be able to do what I love and not sit behind a desk all day.

q: what’s your least favorite thing about having a big family? 
a: Honestly, I don’t see any downsides. I used to (no one-on-one time with mom, the chaos). But my family is the greatest gift and I realize that more the older I get. I love that I have them and I love that they also drive me insane cause they’re all crazy ??‍♀️

q: what is a unique or interesting job you had before HBH?
a: When I was 18 and living in LA I worked the phones recruiting new talent at Barbizon Acting and Modeling ? Not all that interesting but it was my only “real” job before we started HBH.

q: what’s the timing of your house/studio project?
a: We’re hoping it’s going to be finished in the spring/early summer of 2023, so next year.

q: the last thing you do every day is?
a: Post stories + legs up + hopefully dry brush+ shower + skincare. The legs up a wall has been a game changer since I’m truly on my feet from the second I get out of bed till this point. It helps relieve stress/anxiety, increases circulation, and drains the body of excess fluids.

q: do you have a team helping you at all? How do you do it? 
a: Yes! my mom has been my business partner with me since day one. I wouldn’t be here without her. She’s a powerhouse and manages the backend/business side of the website (among a million other things). Then there’s Taylor and McKenzie! These two help with customer service type things, social + other odds-and-ends. Margaret works on the blog side helping my mom with upkeep! And Maggie, my cousin, helps with Pinterest and social! It’s a small team, but we really do it all.

q: do you ever get to a point while cooking a new recipe where you completely abort the idea?
a: All the time. Sometimes I’ll get down to the photos (so the very end) and decide I don’t like the way it’s coming together/looking and I throw in the towel ? Or I’ll take the photos and film the video and then I’m over it and decide not to share. That actually happened today. Soo many recipes like this just sitting on my phone ?

q: are black pants too gloomy for a summer wedding? Curvier girl here who doesn’t like dresses.
a: I don’t think so! I think it’s better to wear something you feel amazing and confident in versus something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Pants are very in right now, especially a relaxed trouser style! Play up the shoes and carry a cute bag to bring in some style elements. Nothing is more “chic” than a statement all-black moment!

q: is there anything you refuse to make?
a: I don’t refuse to make anything, and never say never, but I’m not really interested in making sushi. I’ve made it before, but you know, sushi is just something that’s better left to the pros. Go out and get yourself some really good sushi. Make poke or sushi bowls at home (:

5. Favorite NYC photos + summer photos.

everything I never shared from NYC

(The NY Edition)

(NYC is blooming and so pretty) 

(The Plaza)

(Saint Thomas Church)

(the view from the NY Edition hotel room)

(the streets of Soho)

(dinner at Saint Theo’s)

(late night dinners with new friends)

(nighttime skincare)

(legs up the wall, my favorite activity every night)

bye NYC

6. Inspiring me.

the sweetest

motivating for the week ahead

dreaming about that Italy trip

dahlias for days

fall style inspo

7. Favorite links I’m loving.

Frozen Pastas At Trader Joe’s…here’s how they ranked.

10 Tastemakers Share Their Summer Dinner Party Table…some fun/new ideas.

40 Expensive-Looking Pieces From the Affordable Brands…so many good pieces.

The Bride Wore Khaite for Her Wedding…a beautiful English country wedding.

10 Tips for Increasing Flexibility…I need to follow these tips.

How Do You Throw a Summer Style Party…everything is answered here.

3 Ways to Make the Adrenal Cocktail…have you tried this healthy cocktail? 

The Travel Guide: Cabo San Lucas…if you’re planning a trip.

The Productivity Method Successful Women Swear By…love this method.

How to Tackle a Mountain of Tasks…some good tips.

Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale Is On…18 beauty steals to grab.

20 Luxury Beauty Items Now on Sale at Nordstrom…who’s shopping this weekend?

8 Grand Historic Homes You Can Book on Airbnb…these are very cool.

8. Favorite recent style finds.

Abercrombie

Shopbop

Nordstrom

9. This week’s dinners + favorite weekend eats.

Monday: One Pan Corn and Zucchini Pesto Orzo Casserole

Tuesday: Sweet and Spicy Sesame Meatball Bowl with Mango Cucumber Salad

Wednesday: Grilled Jalapeño Peach Quinoa Salad

Thursday: Lemon Parmesan Salmon with Corn, Tomato, and Avocado Salad

Friday: Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto

Saturday: The Hermione Granger Cocktail

Sunday: No Churn Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream