Monthly Archives: August 2014

DC SoulCycle Now Open!

Last week, DC got its very own SoulCycle and luckily for me, it is within walking distance from my house in Foggy Bottom! For those of you not familiar with SoulCycle, it’s not your average spin class and there is a reason that there’s a cult-like following in places like New York and beyond. It combines inspirational coaching and high-energy music (you can read more about their story here).

Before we even get into the workout details, I’m a sucker for phenomenal branding. We all know this (hence part of the reason I’m so in love with Drybar aside from the fabulous blowouts!) Well, SoulCycle has just that. I was so impressed with their overall attention to detail in their studio space, locker rooms, check-in desk and even restrooms. There are fresh flowers in the women’s restroom, bins that are labeled for used towels and spin shoes, SmartWater throughout the rooms and candles galore. I always say “love in the details”, right? 

On top of all that, SoulCycle thinks of just about everything (my kind of place). There’s a whole new rider page on their website with FAQs, what to do before a class, what to wear and what to expect. You are even assigned a bike (which you get to pick but don’t worry I was in the first row during my first class and it was just fine!). They also have a whole team of very welcoming staff that are also dedicated to getting you set up properly on your bike which includes finding the right settings for your height and clipping in your cycle shoes.

 I will tell you that it’s unlike any spin class I have ever taken. The entire class is mostly in the dark (with mirrors up front) with the exception of a spotlight on the instructor, who is also on a stage with a MacBook handy for jams. Oh and did I mention there’s candles? Yes, even in the studio.

Throughout the class, there’s the use of strength training with small weights, dancing and of course, positive vibes. They take positive attitudes very seriously so if you’ve had a bad or stressful day, you better check that at the door!

I took two classes this past weekend – one with Abby and one with Garrett and just signed up for my third this upcoming week with Natalia. The photo below is an “after” (it’s probably for the best that it’s a little blurry #sweaty).

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In case you’re wondering what to wear to a class, fear not, they have a store and I’ve rounded up a few of my other picks below.

If you’re new to SoulCycle and live in DC, I hope to see you in class soon!

{All photos c/o SoulCycle}

Disclosure: Classes and tank were complimentary and all opinions are my own.

H&T Top Reasons to Send Flowers

If you’ve been reading H&T for awhile, you probably are aware of my love and obsession with fresh flowers (around my house, on my desk, on tablescapes and the list goes on). I also did a DIY tips & tricks post awhile back. Well, I also enjoy sending or giving flowers too. Imagine that!

Today, I am sharing my top reasons for sending florals to all your favorites.

To Say: Happy Birthday! This one is pretty common but there is nothing better than a surprise bouquet on your big day. Whether you send them to an office or home or even to a dinner, you are certain to brighten the birthday girl’s (or boy’s) day.

On Holidays – Mother’s Day (of course), Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s, the list goes on and on – flowers on these days let your loved ones know you’re thinking of them, especially if you are not able to join or be together.

To Say: I’m Sorry – Boys, listen up! I’m not saying you can do anything you want and then send blooms to save the day but…I am pretty confident I would gladly accept tulips (or peonies) in the form of an apology.

To Say: Get Well Soon – Even if you know someone who is just a little under the weather, flowers have a way of making them feel better. The same is, of course, true for those in the hospital or nursing homes. Brighten up their room!

To Say: Congrats! – New job, promotion at work, graduation, new business – whatever it may be, send away!

For Housewarming – Flowers are a great gift to tote along to a housewarming party or send to a friend or family member who just purchased their first home or moved. They will also provide for decor in a new space and make it feel that much more like home!

On Anniversaries: Again, gentleman – take note. And if you forget, I’m sure services like UrbanStems can still send them quickly “day of”

Engagement/Bridal Showers – Send the newly engaged couple or bride-to-be a bouquet when you find out the good news or perhaps if you can’t attend a shower, you can still be there in spirit!

To Say: Thank You – I say that people don’t write enough handwritten thank you notes in our digital age AND I also say that people don’t send enough flowers to say “thank you”. It’s an easy gesture and lets someone know how much you appreciate them.

New Baby! – No new mom or dad has time to run to the store to grab flowers for the house, send away or to the hospital too. I had a fresh hydrangea arrangement made for my BFF and her new baby boy (wrapped in blue ribbon a la Helen Olivia).

Performances – This is a great idea for your little ones and their dance recitals, plays and even to your musician friends after a great concert.

To Say: Farewell – I sent my old boss an arrangement at our “farewell lunch”.  Time it just right and have the delivery show up while you’re at dinner or lunch, it’s a fun surprise too!

Just Because – This one is pretty self explanatory and goes along with me not needing any excuse to send flowers. This is also the best surprise.

You Deserve It! – Go ahead, send yourself some flowers (I certainly won’t judge) – you can unwrap and brighten up your home, office space, kitchen and you save yourself a trip to the market

Hopefully this list inspires you to send or pick up a fresh bouquet or two for SOS!

Have a wonderful weekend!

{Bloom Photos: @TTHBlooms & Flowers by Krystal

NYC: Friday Night Out

If you followed along on instagram, you know I spent this past weekend in my fave place, New York City. I wore this outfit out on Friday night with a fresh pair of heels and bright lips (sans the sunnies). The weather was also gorgeous and this dress was quite fitting for a summer night out on the town (full of toasting).

Being almost 5’8, I often cannot pull off t-shirt or shift dresses. They are always just a little too short on yours truly but this ASOS one was perfect for a night out full of champs and oysters (worn with a little bow belt backwards, of course).



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Dress: ASOS (c/o on SALE & in multiple colors below) // Bow Belt: Kate Spade // Heels: LuLu’s // Sunnies: c/o ASOS // Earrings: c/o Admiral Row // Necklaces: c/o TAudrey &  c/o Gorjana & Griffin // Bracelets: J.Crew & c/o Loren Hope // Rings: Kendra Scott // Lips: All Fired Up by MAC  // Bag: Chanel (Vintage)

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{Photos by Brie}

You’re Invited: 9W InStyle Party!

Happy Monday!

I have some super exciting news to share with you! InStyle is launching their new and exclusive shoe collection with 9 West. AND If you live in the DC area, you can celebrate with them at an event this week on Thursday, August 7th from 6pm to 8pm in Georgetown.

You can preview their fall collection and InStyle’s Accessories Director, Leah Kapp, will be at the event to consult on styling tips as well.  More details & RSVP info are below.

To attend this Thursday – RSVP to NineWest_Georgetown@timein.com

Bring your friends! Hope to see you there!

{This post was sponsored by NineWest x InStyle.}