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I Swear By These 3 Kitchen Hacks

kitchen-hacks

I Swear By These 3 Kitchen Hacks

kitchen-hacks

We spend a LOT of time in the kitchen, all of us. So I’m always looking for ways to keep it as organized and self sufficient as possible. Here are a few of my favorite tips and tricks. Let me know what yours are!

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Of Space + Mind Storage Containers

Besides making me feel calm and happy when I open the pantry, storing everything in clear, airtight bins keeps it fresher longer, lets kids pick their own snacks, and makes it easy to keep it all organized.

Muslin Produce Bags

I hate wasting food, and I’ve found that storing produce in muslin bags makes it last longer (on top of making it look nice in the fridge).

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Material Kitchen Knives

Using a dull knife is the fastest way to cut yourself. Investing in a few quality, very sharp knives will make you a better, faster cook. Material Kitchen makes a beautiful set that’s fairly priced.

Tips For A Better Family Beach Day

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Tips For A Better Family Beach Day

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If you know us, you know our family loves a good beach day! Whether they’re digging, dumping and dripping their way to the tallest sandcastle, collecting shells, scavenging driftwood to build make-shift forts, or playing never-ending games of jumping waves, your kids will never sleep so well as they do after a big day of sand and sea!! And let’s be honest: for parents, that’s what summer fun is all about.

Here are some of my favorite tips, tricks and must-haves for a day of beach fun!

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Beach Wagon

So how do you transport ALL THE STUFF without losing your mind or dislocating your shoulder? I discovered this wagon when I lived in LA to tape MasterChef Junior, and we’d use it for daily trips to our favorite coffee shop and the park. At the time, I was pregnant with Gigi, but the other 3 could hop in and out, and it fit everything while still being easy to push or pull. You can install a car seat, plus sun cover and cold weather protection, too! It’s become our adventuring carry-all that helps me avoid a million runs back to the house/car. It also folds up and stores easily!

Hooded Kids Towel

I love wrapping my kids up in a cozy hooded towel when they’re eating lunch or ready for a little rest in the shade. This one is so cute and customizable so no towels get lost, plus it helps to add another level of sun protection – the absorbent cotton terry fabric provides UPF 50+ for UV Protection.

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Pop-Up Shelter

Especially on blazing hot days, shade cover is critical. When I discovered this brand, I immediately fell in love with the retro look and beautiful design, but what’s best is the 4-minute assembly time and breezy, generous shade a simple, open-walled cloth covering like this provides. It folds down into a small cylinder of materials that’s easy to keep in my trunk, so I never forget to bring it along. If you feel like completing the look, the sling chairs are *chef’s kiss.*

Food Pouches

As a mama of 4, I’ve learned I can usually ward off (a few) epic meltdowns and sibling fights by making sure no one is hungry! Whenever we’re out for the day, I bring plenty of nibbles to keep everyone fueled and avoid a desperate hunt for crappy snacks.These endlessly-reusable, non-toxic, silicone bags are dishwasher-safe, sand-proof, freezer-friendly, and come in tons of different sizes and colors. BONUS TIP: Save a bag for your electronics to keep them sand/dirt free!

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Water Bottles

Another key to a happy day: keep everyone hydrated! Each of the kids has their own personalized tumbler, and I love how cold drinks stay thanks to the double-wall vacuum insulation. (I’m sure my 2 year old really appreciates this feature – haha.) The MOST important part is that the straw provides for easy access but is leak resistant when closed, so we avoid dreaded spills. I also love that the bottle and lid are dishwasher safe. P.S. Grownups get the big ones.

Easy-Carry Cooler

This was one of those purchases I avoided for years because it just seemed like such overkill. Once we moved to Florida and were spending so much more time at the beach, I caved… and I’m so glad I did! The drinks, sandwiches, chopped veg, fruit, yogurt, cheese sticks, etc I pack inside always stay cool and fresh. And while hard coolers are great, I love this soft-sided bag because I find it easier to carry when loaded up – like a giant, refrigerated purse.

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Other tricks to keep in mind:

  • Slather on sunscreen at home so you’re not fighting sand/wind at the beach for the first application – and the kids can scatter as soon as you touch down! For the rest of the day, I bring along SPF 50 cream sunscreen for body and an easy-to-apply stick for faces. There is A LOT to evaluate when it comes to choosing the best sunscreen, and I think we’ll do a whole separate post on this because it’s a question I get from you all the time. But a couple clean-focused brands we’ve used: SuperGoop! and Babo Botanicals.
  • I love our portable Bose waterproof speaker! 6 hours of great sound that’s loud enough for us to hear but we keep it quiet enough it’s not going to bother nearby sun worshipers. It’s so fun to set (or reset) the mood – and who doesn’t love a little beach dance party, especially as afternoon turns to breezy dusk.
  • Beach toys! Our must haves: several shovels (bring a strong one for real digging!) and pails of different sizes, water-safe figurines for setting up fun make believe scenes, a plastic tea set that won’t break or rust, a sieve, a soccer ball or football or both!
  • Bring a children’s novel to read aloud when the kids need a break from digging, splashing, snacking, etc.
  • Pro tip: Make popsicles the night before so you have cold, sweet treats waiting for you at the end of a happy beach day!

Hair Accessories For The (Instant) Win

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Hair Accessories For The (Instant) Win

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Hair accessories are definitely having a moment, and I’m so here for it! Headbands, barrettes, bows, and even combs – there are such fun takes on them all. It’s such a quick, easy way to go from day to night (or bed to board meeting) when there’s no time for a blowout.

Here are the ones I’m loving!

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Jennifer Behr Headband

$325

This handmade Jennifer Behr triple rosette headband comes in the prettiest hues, brilliantly hides roots and dirty hair, and brings an outfit together.
P.S. I’m wearing it in the above photo.

Lelet Headband

From $68

These are not just headbands. They are full-on outfits. Swarovski crystals, embroidery, and styles that stand up like halos—they are a shut-it-down look on their own.

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Slip Scrunchies

$62

Not only do these super-chic scrunchies not leave a crease, but they’re also made of the most luxe mulberry silk that’s actually good for your hair. They’re basically all I use because they stay in place, even with my super-thick pony.

Jenny Walton Hair Pin

$70

Not only is this hair pin from fashion darling Jenny Walton gorgeous on its own, but it also gives you the most French-girl-chic hair in minutes. Just watch the how-to video.

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Valet Hair Clips

$55

I love leopard print when done right, and these chic hair clips are exactly that.

Madewell Hair Tie

$15

Go from haven’t-washed-in-a-week to sleek-and-chic with these velvet bow hair ties. Throw it in a bun or pony and go!

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My Favorite Baby & New Mom Gifts

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My Favorite Baby & New Mom Gifts

I was very lucky to receive such thoughtful gifts each time John and I welcomed a new baby into our family — some that were exceptionally useful, others more meaningful that will become our treasures, and others that are just fancy and fun and the kind of thing parents never buy themselves!

I’ll keep adding to this list because there always seems to be a new crop of fun gifts, and I’m always on the hunt for inspiration now that so many of my friends are giving birth!

Next time you need to buy a baby or new mom gift, here are some serious swoon-worthy picks to peruse.

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Hill House Home Nap Dress

From $75

It has a cult following for good reason. The brilliantly-designed Nap Dress goes from bed to, well, anywhere and makes nursing a breeze.

Russ & Daughters Brunch

$179 

It doesn’t get any better than a Russ & Daughters’ spread—bagels, cream cheese, Nova, chocolate babka, and coffee—delivered to her doorstep.

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Monti Kids Box

$297

A box of Montessori toys for each stage of development helps parents bond with their babies and babies meet their milestones. Win-win.

Frida Mom Postpartum Kit

$50

It might not look fancy, but there is no better gift for a mom than this brilliant box of goodies that makes healing more comfortable (and more dignified).

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Tiffany Baby Brush

$160

Baby’s first little blue box with a monogrammed Elsa Peretti brush is an always-appreciated classic.

DocATot Deluxe

$195

This portable baby “docking station” is a lifesaver when you need to make more coffee, fold laundry, or, you know, pee, and still keep an eye on baby. Plus, it’s womb-like feel promotes sleep!

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A Gift Guide for the Mom Who’s A Little ‘Extra’

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A Gift Guide for the Mom Who’s A Little ‘Extra’

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Imagine this: It’s morning, the sun is up before you for a change, and you’re about to have a quiet breakfast on your own – where the coffee is hot and served in a breakable cup with a saucer because you take your time and drink it in sips, not gulps. The newspaper is read. Someone has brought you fresh croissants. Your skin glows! You magically have no undereye bags, and your hair is perfectly bed-heady (can we go ahead and coin “beddy” right here?). You feel effortlessly chic, detoxed, and well-rested.

And then reality sets in, and it is not this – it is so much better.

Pampering is not often one of the many perks that comes with being a mom, but if she’s fancy on the inside – even in her yoga clothes and messy bun – show her you know her!

Behold, my roundup of the top items any mom looking for a little something to elevate her everyday would be dazzled to receive. Somehow, serving up cereal in an angel-winged silk bathrobe just can’t be ho hum.

And more important than anything on any Mother’s Day list, give mom a kiss (or a million!), throw your arms around her and tell her how much you love and appreciate her. If you feel so inclined, a handmade gift will always be her favorite. Would you want to see a post on some of my favorite art projects to do with my kids?

OK, let’s get to it!

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Warriors of the Divine Kimono

These hand-painted kimonos are magically luxe. I got the pink one with golden wings when I had Philomena, and it remains my chosen outfit whenever urgent dressing is necessary. (Delivery at the door mid-pumping?? Kimono!)

Rose Quartz Face Roller

Five minutes with this face roller penetrates serum deeper into the skin and rids under-eye puffiness (extra points if you pop it in the fridge for 10 mins!). Plus, rose quartz is full of healing energy.

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Personalized Straw Tote

Current obsessions: farmers markets, beach days, being more French-chic and Australian-carefree. This traditional woven straw bag, made and hand-embroidered in Morocco, happens to marry all of the above.

Gucci Sneakers

They are sneakers. They are Gucci. Mom will love them.

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Lunya Silk Pajamas

These super silky (but plenty roomy) silk pajamas are the definition of comfy-chic. And they’re machine washable which everyone knows makes mama very happy!

Hedgehouse Throwbed

A nap is nice (and always welcome). But an outdoor nap is pure heaven. Especially on this luxe throwbed (with machine washable cover!). And when a nap’s not in the cards, use it for beach picnics and impromptu park tea parties.

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Roxanne Assoulin Earrings

I love a chic statement earring, and these by Roxanne Assoulin are so fun. I especially love them mismatched, but you can buy them matching if you prefer. They’re totally unexpected and cool with jeans and a tee, and of course perfect with a fancy dress too.

Kaya Jungle Firming Body Oil

I’m so obsessed with how hydrating (but not greasy) this body oil is, and it has an intoxicating jasmine scent!

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Dreaming In Terra-Cotta

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Dreaming In Terra-Cotta

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Fall always feels like such a special time to me, a reset that makes me crave coziness and comfort. I’m feeling really inspired by the rich, earthy hue terra-cotta right now. It feels like such a rustic, elegant way to bring orange into my life without a cascade of pumpkins (no offense to pumpkins).

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Ceramic Bowls

From $80

These glazed terra-cotta bowls are gorgeous for storing fruit or snacks on your counter top, serving salads, and all your mixing needs. I love their rustic but elegant feel, and they always make me feel like I’m on vacay.

Teddy Coat

$190

I live in Florida and sadly am not traveling this winter, so this coat doesn’t belong in my wardrobe, but I love it so much I wanted to share it with you. If you live in a cold climate, lucky you!

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Chantecaille Lipstick

$49

This glossy, hydrating tinted balm (color is Tamarind) has become my go to for an easy slick of warm color. I love that it’s pigmented enough to make a difference but light enough that I can put it on without a mirror.

Orange Wine

From $27

I recently wasn’t feeling my red, white, or rosé go-tos, so I asked my very wine-knowledgable friend for some suggestions. She kind of blew my mind when she recommended some orange wines (who knew that even existed?!), and I’m here to tell you, it’s delish – a totally different flavor! I love that there are so many unfiltered, organic options.

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Take A Walk On the Wild Side

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Take A Walk On the Wild Side

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I LOVE a leopard print. Always have! You can take the girl out of Jersey (and happily stick her in Florida!), but you can’t take Jersey out of the girl haha. It’s the perfect non-neutral neutral and I love it as an accent piece with just about any color, and occasionally as a look all its own. I’ve seen so many good iterations lately — here’s what I have my (cat) eye on. 😉

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Ceramic Leopard

Prices vary

A vintage ceramic leopard is such a conversation piece and just makes me smile. There are some good ones on 1st Dibs and Etsy.

Barefoot Dreams Throw

$195

I’m a sucker for the coziness of anything Barefoot Dreams—it’s like cuddling up in a cloud. (And they also wash well.)

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Ceramic Plates

From $30

These hand-painted plates (with 22-karat gold rims) are absolutely gorgeous and make such a fun statement at a dinner party.

La Ligne Dress

$395

Leave it to La Ligne to make leopard look easy and effortless. The smocked bodice top holds it all in, the flowy bottom flatters every body type, and the bow straps add the perfect dash of femininity.

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Leopard Bikini

$13

I own this bikini, and it is crazy flattering!  Always makes me feel a little extra saucy.

Give Me An A, B, C, D…

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Give Me An A, B, C, D…

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I love a sentimental gift to commemorate a new baby. Who wouldn’t?! And there are so many beautiful, special options out there.

Here are my favorites from some very talented jewelry designers. Good luck choosing just one!

Photo courtesy of Foundrae.

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Maya Brenner Initial Necklace

From $240

I first got this necklace with a letter P when my oldest Philomena was born. I have added an initial for each baby ever since and basically never take this delicate gold chain off! Love it so much.

Foundrae Pave Initials Heart

$5,195

This heirloom-quality intricate gold heart holds up to 5 pave initials for your favorite people —layered or hanging on her own, this piece is the outfit.

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Alison Lou Amour Signet Ring

$950

Sentimental meets supercool in Alison Lou’s gold signet ring surrounded in a heart enamel pattern with engraved initial.

Jennifer Fisher Gothic Pave Letter

$800 each

Jennifer Fisher’s gothic letter studs decked in pave diamonds have just the right amount of edge. Yellow, white, or rose gold – it’s your call.

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Loquet Custom Locket

Price varies by design

This one is fun fun fun! Pick your shape (circle, heart), then choose your charms (initials, symbols, birthstones, and more). Add to it as you like.

The Last Line Pave Ring

From $475

This delicate dazzler of pave diamonds (in the birthstone of your choice) set in 14-karat yellow gold is meant to be stacked – one for every baby!

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Zoe Chicco Charm Builder

Price varies by design

It doesn’t get more creative and personalized than Zoe Chicco’s custom online charm builder. Warning: You could lose hours making your dream piece.

Bespoke Solange Written Ring

Price varies by design

Stunning, hand-forged rings of your little’s (or loved ones!) cursive name in diamonds, emeralds, or rubies. A statement piece you can wear every day.

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