I swore I wouldn't do it. I 100% wouldn't be sucked-in to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I wasn't going to even look at it...and then I did. And I watched 2,000 IG stories featuring try-on sessions. And I scoured every single page of that dang sale. And I bought a lot of stuff. UGH.
In my humble opinion, the sale is pretty good. It's not earth-shattering good, but it's good enough to justify a few purchases, especially on items for the fall. For those of you who can't get behind fall purchases yet, I get it. I really do. I am an immediate satisfaction kind of gal, too. However, there are things that I've been needing for a while (hello, a good pair of jeans and a solid pair of boots), and when I saw them on sale, I at least had to give them a try.
I admit, I wasn't going to post about the sale at all, but then I had dinner with some of my favorite people on Friday night, and one of them asked me if I would (heeeyyyyy Annie!), so I am! We talked about how a lot of bloggers don't necessarily look at us (ie. boobs and hips), and so in the spirit of that sentiment, here's what is arriving later this week!
As someone who usually has her posts scheduled weeks in advance, I definitely let Monday creep up on me, so this one is coming at you LIVE, y'all! We had company in town this weekend, so I was focused on hanging out and enjoying time with them. It was great to not really have any commitments and to relax and have fun instead. So today, I am bringing you a quick round-up of my favorite links and happenings:
Favorite Links:
Scooped up this deco dress for a steal. I have a million ways I want to wear it already!
And this coat needs to be in my closet this winter. Sigh. This one is probably less of a pipe dream and just as much of a statement.
Loved #AskHerMore during the Emmys' red carpet last night.
Started planning a bachelorette weekend for sweet friend in Highlands, NC. Would love your recommendations!
Heard these pants are the best thing since sliced bread for work...and weekend lounging?
Added a few more Halloween decorations from Yankee Candle to my collection. Don't forget your coupon!
Favorite Happenings:
If you follow along on Snapchat (nicolemelv), you saw that I took a photography and styling workshop with Annette Joseph. We learned so much! #colortriangle
If you're not from Atlanta, or if you're not familiar with the city, people often refer to places either ITP or OTP. ITP stands for "Inside the Perimeter" which is the area within I-285, a highway that runs in a loop around the city. Likewise, OTP stands for the area of town "Outside the Perimeter." It's an easy way of identifying different spots around town quickly as well as providing a little insight about where something is in relation to the city.
While I don't head OTP often, there are a ton of gems that can be found in cities like Roswell, Alpharetta, and Marietta. And a few weeks ago, I discovered a fabulous gem and the best ATL shopping OTP, The Avenue East Cobb. The Avenue East Cobb is only about a 15-20 minute drive from my front door making it a great alternative to my local mall. This high-end retail space is filled to the brim with everything from clothing shops to housewares stores, and even has a barre studio and spa!
I had the pleasure of attending a walking-tour of the grounds and was thrilled to make stops in some of my favorite stores like Ann Taylor where I created a fall wishlist including this amazing jacket, and Williams-Sonoma where we tasted moscow mules(did you know they made moscow mule mix?!). I even picked up a fabulous tassel bag from Versona (be on the lookout for it on the blog soon!).
While I loved every stop along the way, I have to say that one of my top places we visited was Hand and Stone. Hand and Stone is a luxurious spa that offers massage, facial services, and even hair removal. As part of our outing, we were each treated to a 30 minute massage which I promptly used last weekend...and then promptly signed-up for a membership! With a membership, I get one massage or facial per month, plus unlimited other services at member pricing. And there's no contract or annual commitment. Best thing I've ever purchased. Just sayin.
We finished our afternoon at Cheeky Taqueria. I've been to a Cheeky before, but I had no idea the history of the brand. Cheeky is actually a locally owned business (score!) and specializes in Tex-Mex fare. We indulged in delicious margaritas and bites. Another OTP gem!
If you find yourself in the area, make plans to visit The Avenue East Cobb. Treat yourself to a spa service at Hand and Stone, enjoy a little shopping, and definitely indulge in a margarita!
Shop the post:
Special thanks to the Avenue East Cobb for inviting me to this event. While gift cards and products were given to me, all opinions are my own.
Atlanta is a great location for finding some under the radar shopping. Of course we have the big box stores, but what I personally love are the locally owned boutiques. If you're planning a trip to Atlanta any time soon, here are the best hidden shops in Atlanta:
For Beauty Lovers: Fig & Flower - Fig & Flower is Atlanta's first all natural beauty store. Not only does this shop have a fabulous selection of natural makeup, but they offer application and even makeup bag clean-outs where Sara, the owner, walks you through what to keep and what to toss.
For Gifts & Goodies: The Merchant - The Merchant is like it's own little gift gallery. Filled will wall to wall stationery, coffee mugs, jewelry, and more, you're bound to find something you want (or need?).
For Children's Goods: Sugarboo & Co - Even though Sugarboo & Co has oodles more than just children's gifts, their section for the kiddos is not to be missed. I'm partial to Atlanta's own Little Luxnecklace line.
For Home Decor: Steve McKenzie's - Located on Atlanta's Westside Design District, Steve McKenzie's has a well-curated selection of home decor, pottery, and exclusive textiles. Owners Jill & Steve McKenzie have really thought about what to carry, and it shows. Plus, Steve's art studio is in the loft space upstairs where he paints originals for the shop and beyond.
What are your favorite Atlanta shops? I'm always on the search for more!
