EVENT: BLOG CON MUST-HAVES

Memorial Day weekend has finally arrived! I'll be spending the day shopping + hitting all the amazing sales happening right now {follow me on Twitter and Instagram for updates!} In the meantime, I'm already starting to think about what to pack for the upcoming conference, Go Blog Social. I think this list pretty much sums up all the essentials. 

Interested to learn more about Go Blog Social? Visit Facebook and Twitter for updates and purchase your ticket here.

Are you planning to attend any blog conferences this summer?!

BUDGET CHIC: MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

I won't lie. It takes a lot for me to spend tons of money on certain items. Shoes and handbags are always a no brainer, but when it comes to the basics I'm definitely someone that wants to keep it cheap. And being on a budget doesn't necessarily mean running straight to Forever 21. Trust me. There are so many options that are just as affordable and a make a much better investment. My favorite places? Old Navy, Gap, Madewell, and Target always have great options. Here are my budget basics {all under $50!} for this Memorial Day weekend:

Madewell Painted Lacebloom Shorts | Gap Stripes Canvas Tote {also love this one!}
J. Crew Camp Popover | ASOS Factor Flat Sandals

BEAUTY: SUMMER BASICS

{via}

Since I eat, sleep, dream and do all other things beauty from 9-to-5 and beyond most days, I've slowed down my beauty posts lately. Not that I don't love working in the industry and all, but there are only so many times I day I can talk about mascara and moisturizer. Anyway, I recently cleaned out my insanely stuffed product shelves and thought I'd share a few of my favorites that are keepers for the warmer seasons. As always, would love to know your favorites! 

Lips:  I know I've mentioned Tarte's Lip Lusters before, but I just love them. These lippies do it all from adding moisture, the right amount of color and as a plus, are all-natural and not chalky. 

Eyes:  I always keep it simple in the summer. A swipe of mascara for volume usually does the trick.

Face:  I try to skip heavy foundations and cake-y powders for primer and BB cream. A dash of blush is always a nice touch since I usually have a bit more color. I love Tarte's awakening cheek stain.

Hair:  My poor locks get so dry in the heat. I have to up the amount of moisture with a rich shampoo and conditioner combo and protect with a blow dry and heat spray. I swear by Kenra's line.

EATS: SMOOTHIES

If you follow me on Instagram, you've probably seen the various smoothies that I like to make whether during a "cleanse" or for a healthy treat. I thought I would share a few of my favorites. 

1. "Green" Smoothie - {a light, clean smoothie packed with greens - great to start the day!}

     (1) handful of fresh kale, (1) handful of spinach, (1/2) orange, (1) kiwi, (1) small banana

2. Banana Oatmeal Smoothie - {delicious replacement for ice cream and evening dessert cravings}

    (1) large banana, (1/2) cup of greek yogurt, (1) splash of almond milk (1/4) cup of oats, (1) tsp cinnamon

3. Strawberry Banana Smoothies - {froth-y and fresh with simple fruit ingredients}

    (1) large banana, (5) fresh strawberries,  (1) splash of coconut milk

4. Tropical Mango & Pineapple - {tasty and tropical smoothie perfect for an afternoon snack}

     (1/2) cup of mango, (1/2) cup of pineapple, (1/2) banana, (1) splash of coconut milk

Are you a smoothie fanatic? Spill on your favorite recipes!