Category Archives: Fitness

Life Lately – H&T Updates

Things have be a little quiet this past week on H&T so I wanted to do a quick post today to check in and let you know what I’ve been up to! I don’t often reveal too much of my life here on H&T outside the “hosting and toasting” but I think a little glimpse from time to time is needed. First & foremost, I’ve hired a new fall H&T intern – Ashley is the greatest and a tremendous help!

Some more BAC updates?

I just got back from Florida last week after a quick visit to see my family and attend an engagement dinner party that was hosted for my sister. If you followed along on instagram, you know that this past weekend was spent in the DC area with friends – brunching, sailing and celebrating.

On the events front, I am working on some exciting collaborations and events soon with some of my favorite brands and bloggers (more deets to come). AND in just a few short weeks, I will be a presenter at DC’s Metropolitan Cooking & Entertaining Show! Don’t forget to get your tickets and come and see one of my Holiday Tips & Tricks workshops the weekend of Nov 8th-9th (Bobby Flay is also a good reason to come!). I’m so excited to share with you how I host & toast in person and meet everyone!

On the fitness front, I have been on a non-stop barre class plan at Barre Tech (4-5x a week) and am determined to have Jennifer Aniston’s arms by the time my sister’s wedding comes along, ha! If you haven’t tried a class, you’re missing out! There will be a special promo code for H&T readers who purchase classes so stay tuned. I’m working on styling some of my favorite Barre Tech gear this week for my first ever workout outfit post too.

On the beauty front, I have also been following a strict skincare routine with the help of Reagan and Beautycounter and OMG – my skin is absolutely radiant! I’m also excited to try their new lip colors soon in an outfit post. Shop my picks here and click on “Hosting & Toasting Social” for more.

On the hosting front – next weekend, I will be hosting a small fall-themed brunch for a group of friends (spoiler: pumpkin pancakes will be involved) with my good friend, Cori Sue of Bitches Who Brunch.

On the fashion front, the H&T Shop has been updated for Fall – and check out some of my staples in my latest post too. I have a slight obsession with vests and leopard as evident by my picks and new outfit posts are also coming next week (see below).

And finally, if you liked my Labor Day weekend recap post series – stay tuned next week for a fall trip recap. This weekend I am headed to The Omni Homestead for a girls weekend full of wine, dining, spa days and skeet shooting. I have partnered with GM again on this road trip and The Homestead has been so gracious to host us – it’s one of my favorite spots and just a few hours from DC. Much needed R&R!

I have a few more trips lined up this fall and am headed up to NYC soon too – cannot wait! Carly and I have already made some fun plans and I’m looking forward to seeing all my friends up there.

 On top of all that, I have been feeling a little under the weather this week (#seasonsarechanging) and there seems to never be enough hours in the day as I also work full time as an event planner. Who else can relate to this?  So thank you for baring with me as I took a little blog break to catch up on emails and light a few pumpkin candles.

Up next? Stay tuned this week as I share some of my “Fall” tips & tricks to get your house ready and check out my pumpkin patch post from last year & fall drink recipes in case you need some inspiration early!

Phew! Happy Tuesday!

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).

soulcyle1

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.

Guest Post – Barre Fashion: Splurge vs. Save

Happy Friday! I am headed up to NYC for the weekend so I’ve let my little sister, Megan Elizabeth take over H&T with her first guest post. She’s my best friend, role model and is currently in grad school back home in Florida. Enjoy!

I love attending fitness classes like barre, Les Mills Bodyflow and yoga. Although they all have similar style clothing, (making it easy and fun for shopping!), I’ll be talking about cute outfit options for barre classes. Being comfortable while working out is a must for me. And who doesn’t want to look cute too? Putting on workout clothes that you love and look forward to wearing provide a great boost to make it to your barre class that day!

Since I’m a graduate student on budget, I’m usually a big fan of inexpensive workout clothes that look like the pricier pieces (the pricier ones tend to make it on my “wish list”). In this post I’d love to give you some great options no matter what budget you’re on. I’ll show you my favorite, splurge worthy pieces, and their affordable counterparts.

SPLURGE

Free To Be Bra by lululemon – $42

This bra has it a all. A cute style, different color and pattern options, double cross back, removable padding, and comfortable fabric. I’ll take one in each color please.

Lattice Back Cami by Beyond Yoga – $75

Although I usually prefer loose fitting tops for barre, I am in love with this crossed back fitted cami. It’s super stylish and would be just as comfortable as a flowing top, with adjustable straps and plenty of colors to choose from (black is my fave)!

Tendu Grip Performance Stirrup Tight by Splits 59 – $106

These pants are PERFECT for barre! It’s a footed tight which means no need for socks for this gal in class.

SAVE

C9 Double Strap Yoga Bra by Champion at Target – $10

This bra is super cute and super affordable, with a similar crossed back to our splurge. I especially love the coral print option!

GoDRY Graphic Tank by Old Navy – $12

Like I said earlier, flowing tanks are my favorite for barre. I’ve recently started wearing loose tops with little motivational sayings on them, and this tank by Old Navy would be a great wear while burning those muscles in barre! LIVE. LEARN. BURN.

Colorblocked Active Yoga Legging by Forever 21 – $21.80

Another great site for saving on cute workout gear – Forever 21. I’ve found countless sports bras, tops and leggings here, for the most affordable prices. My save for today are these color blocked leggings, which rival many splurges in style and comfort. I especially love the dark grey/peony pair!

 Now get to shopping and get to tucking in style in your next barre class!

MEC also writes on health, fitness & lifestyle topics for Sweet Lemon so if you enjoyed this  – check out her posts HERE.