Ruffle Layered Dress

If you frequently wake up in the morning not knowing what to wear, then you know the importance of having staples that you can throw on without much thought. I don't know about you, but I have my go-to brands that never let me down. For me, that brand is Crown and Ivy, and it can be found at Belk. I pretty much can't leave the Crown and Ivy section without finding at least five items that I want to buy.

Crown and Ivy initially caught my eye several years ago because of their fun prints that have a Lilly Pulitzer vibe. Ever since then, I've purchased many additions to my wardrobe from their line, and they're by far my most favorite pieces to wear. Over the past year, I've tried to focus on quality over quantity with my wardrobe, and I definitely think their clothes are worth the price.
The secret to shopping Crown and Ivy is knowing that you really have to try on the clothes, as their sizes aren't very consistent. I have items ranging from XS-M, though my true size is a medium. I highly recommend trying on to find the best fit. One other note is to wait for a sale since the items can get pretty pricey without discounts. Belk frequently has 50% off on this brand, and they also have a pretty great clearance section.

Dress - Crown and Ivy | Shoes - Madden Girl | Bracelets - Alex and Ani  

My most recent find was this fun tiered chambray dress. I love the cold shoulder details, and the ruffles give it a really feminine look. I paired it with my pom-pom sandals from Madden Girl and a few fun accessories. It's so comfortable and light to wear. This look would be perfect for the 4th of July.

Dress - Crown and Ivy | Shoes - Madden Girl | Bracelets - Alex and Ani 

If you haven't checked out Crown and Ivy, I highly recommend their clothes for both the quality and style. Check them out, and let me know what you think.

Love,

Emily

5 Podcasts You Need to Check Out

Over the past year I fell in love with listening to podcasts. While they've just become popular in recent years, I must admit I was a little late to the podcast scene, simply because I didn't really understand what they were. My job that I was previously working required several mindless tasks, so we were allowed to have headphones while we worked. I've never been a huge fan of listening to music anywhere other than the car, so I decided to try listening to podcasts while I worked. For me, they're the most interesting time passer.

If you're unfamiliar with podcasts, they are essentially a form of audio that allows you to get a significant amount of information on just about any topic. Think of it basically as listening to a show on the radio... and if that doesn't make sense, then just try listening to one on your next commute! I know it's very common for people to set up a podcast for a long commute or while cleaning the house! For me, I only really listen to them while I work. Find what works for you, and I promise you'll love it.

Like I said before, the topics that podcasts cover are endless. In addition, there are a variety of places you can listen to them. I mainly listen on Google Play or through the podcast of choice's website, but I know iTunes and a variety of other podcast apps can be used as well. Something to keep in mind is that they will use your data unless you download them while on wifi (so unless you've got unlimited data, be sure to download at home!)

Now that I've told you what podcasts are and when and how to listen, I'm going to share with you my 5 favorites that I can't stop talking about. My favorite genre is true crime podcasts, but I threw in a few others if that's not your thing. I've linked up each podcast as well, so feel free to click the links to get you to the site where you can listen. Now let's get to it!

1. Serial Season One - Probably one of the most well-known podcasts, this week-by-week show covered the story of the conviction of Adnan Syed in the murder of Hae Min Lee. This was one of the most interesting cases I had ever heard and really peaked my interest into true crime. If I could only recommend one podcast to someone, this would be it. But be warned... once you start, you won't want to stop! When you're finished, listen to Undisclosed Season One. This podcast takes a more in depth look into the case, and it's absolutely fascinating! 
2. Up and Vanished - Another true crime podcast, Up and Vanished takes a look into the missing persons case of Tara Grinstead. The twists and turns of this podcasts are so thrilling, you have to check it out... no spoilers here! 
3. Stuff You Should Know - This podcast covers just about any topic, and is narrated by two men with dry, funny senses of humor. If you're looking for something to talk about at your next dinner party, listen to an episode of this, and you'll be sure to be a wealth of knowledge on any topic! 
4. This American Life - This podcast as been around for a long time, and there's definitely a reason why. Each episode typically takes a look at several different stories that somehow relate to the main topic that they've chosen. This is by far the hardest to explain (even they have a hard time), but give it a few listens, and I'm sure you'll be hooked! 
5. The Vanished Podcast -  The Vanished Podcast has a great mission - bringing attention to missing persons cases that haven't been largely covered by the media. The narrator shares the stories, interviews family members of missing persons, and encourages her listeners to share any knowledge they have into the case. Another interesting true crime podcast you can't miss! 

So there you have it - my top 5 podcasts I completely binge on! I hope you check some of them out, and let me know what you think in the comments below. 

Love, 

Emily

Candlefish Experience Review

I really love giving gifts, but I especially enjoy the idea of gifting experiences. I really try to be thoughtful with my giving, and creating memories with the person you are gifting is invaluable. When Mother's Day rolled around this year, I decided to look into gifting my mom a candle making class. She really loves candles, and she enjoys spending time with me, so I decided it was the perfect gift! I Googled candle making classes in Charleston, SC, and found a company called Candlefish. 

Candlefish has a variety workshops in both Atlanta and Charleston. The company has a really cool history and a great mission. At the beginning of our candle workshop, we learned that they employ people in their factories that are looking for a second chance. They provide them with the work opportunity, and the employees have something they can physically hold (the candle) that shows them what they've accomplished. 

Our experience at Candlesfish was great. We learned so much about the company, their different products, and everything that goes in to creating a quality and delicious smelling candle. Our Chandler walked us through the entire process and taught us about selecting scents, the different notes in the candle scent, and some very helpful tips on candle care. 

The class costs around $50, and that includes two 9oz candles. Definitely keep in mind that they may only allow you to select one scent, meaning you will go home with two candles that smell the same, unless someone else in the workshop is willing to trade you.  

Our class had 7 people in it total. We all gathered around a large table where our chandler had all of the necessary tools set out for us. Once we got our scent education, we were able to walk around the candle "library" and smell different candles. They encourage you not to read what scents are in the candle so that it does not deter you from smelling it if it has a note that you typically don't prefer. You might be surprised that you like that scent when combined with something else. The scents are numbered, and once you choose, your chandler gets the bottle for you. After that, we began the candle making and were provided with the opportunity to look around their really unique shop. Something else to keep in mind is that your candles have to sit overnight. You do have to go back to the store the next day to pick it up. They also have the option of shipping it to you if you will be leaving the area.

Overall, we were really pleased with our experience. If you live in or are visiting the Atlanta or Charleston area and are looking for a great gift idea or something to do, I would highly recommend checking them out. 

Love, 

Emily