Mama Got Dressed Today: Maternity Style from Le Tote

Finding just the right maternity clothes is kind of a pain. Le Tote has been the absolute best maternity style service that I have tried so far. And that includes ordering various outfits from tons of different stores as well. This post is not sponsored but I hope another mama-to-be sees this and is encouraged to try it out because the first time I felt put together in my pregnancy so far was when I was wearing my Le Tote pieces. My full experience plus a $25 off link is below!

My Experience with Maternity Clothes + Le Tote

This was one of the first times in weeks (months?) that I wore actual pants that were both comfortable and made me feel good! Yep, pants other than my super lose sweats or pj pants. I had this outfit on for probably a few hours and these days, that's saying something.

Le Tote was recommended to me by my sister-in-law and it has been my favorite pregnancy indulgence. I love that I get a big selection of items sorted according to my style and then can heart my favorites. So far I love what I've received in terms of quality and matching my personal style. I feel SO good knowing I can slip into something comfortable and stylish when I do want to go out.

The Kimi and Kai top is 100000% wonderful in every way! I love it for pregnancy and postpartum. Not only is it flattering but the fabric feels luxurious and soft on my belly. The one thing I have learned about maternity clothes is that they are not all made equally. It is easy to look at anything stretchy and think it is good enough but having thoughtful design for a changing body makes a world of difference. 

To explain...the top has a layer that fits snug right on my belly, then the outer flowy layer on top. The top portion has hidden zippers on each side that make it nursing friendly. I love the color and the weight of the fabric. It is a solid investment. The prices for your items vary but I find them to be competitive with Nordstrom Rack prices if not even cheaper in many cases.

For the box overall, I kept the top, a dress, and necklace. I sent back the other dress because the cut wasn't my favorite and the purse because I did not need it, BUT I wore and used both over 2 weeks time which was fun.

PS: The pants I have on I ordered separately from Le Tote. They are by Motherhood Maternity and just a tad long for me (I'm 5'1) but not too bad. After trying quite a few stores, the Motherhood Maternity brand won me over (downside: they are lay flat to dry only). 

How to Le Tote Works

Sign up Once you sign up for Le Tote and create your style profile you browse items chosen for your style and heart whatever you love- they remain in your Closet. 

Get Styled When it comes time for your tote, a stylist puts together a selection of items which varies depending on the Tote you chose. I went with 3 clothing items and 2 accessories (purses, jewelry, scarves). 

Finalize Your Styles Most importantly, before it is finalized and mailed, you get to decide if you want to swap anything or everything. This has been great for adding pieces I need or want for certain occasions that pop up or my whatever my mood is at the time. 

Your Tote You receive your tote, keep what you want, and send back the rest in the pre-paid shipping bag. And if you purchase your whole tote, you get your next month's tote free! Not even kidding, for my second tote I'm buying it ALL. Email, comment, or message me if you have any other questions. 

Receive $25 off your Le Tote with this referral link!

Fun at the Planetarium + Smithsonian Folklife Festival

How are you doing? Let's catch up. Between my last post and today I have been resting a TON. My body has just needed it really badly. When I get that tired I try to just let myself sleep however much I  need, which means way less time on here. One thing I have recently cut out of my life is caffeine so it could have to do with that as well. If you follow on Instagram, you know my family was in town for a few days! It was really great to see them and take them around the city.

Moving onto this Sunday...the day began with coffees at Compass Coffee and then a walk to the Air and Space Museum to see a show in the Planetarium. And after that was lunch and dessert at the Folklife Festival. See it all below!

Even though it was SO hot out, I really wanted to wear this new kimono I got awhile back. My skin is ridiculously sensitive to the sun, so sometimes it actually works in my favor to cover up more. It is a very lightweight piece and I can't wait to wear it again and again!

Exhausted and sweaty but...HELLO from the Air and Space Museum. You can wear special glasses and view the sun using this special telescope! We have been thinking about getting a more advanced telescope and this visit to the museum made us want one even more. I have also been messing around with my DSLR to see what kind of night photography I can achieve with the lens I have right now. It would be amazing to capture some of the night sky when we go beach camping later this summer!

We saw "Dark Universe" in the planetarium and it was awesome! And it was narrated by Neil deGasse Tyson, which made it extra awesome (any other StarTalk junkies out there?) I highly recommend going to see one of the shows going on right now. It costs $9 for a ticket and the IMAX theater is also really fun to see a movie. I love getting tickets for after hours. It is just so cool to see the museum at night. You cannot walk around the entire thing but you see enough to enjoy seeing a few things with no one else around.

The theme of this year's Smithsonian Folklife Festival is "On the Move", featuring cultures that have immigrated and migrated throughout the United States. Typically, this festival highlights one country, so it was unique to see a blend of so many different and interesting cultures. Honestly, I had forgotten the festival was even going on and just happened to walk by and decide to get food here. I am so glad we stumbled up on it! 

This panel focused on the Power of Girlhood! Yes! I loved that we were sitting near a grandmother who turned around to her granddaughter and grandson, lifted her arms to cheer, "YES! THE POWER OF GIRLHOOD!" 

This was the kind of thing that encourages equality and respect towards women and girls. Letting female voices be heard, listening to their experiences. At one point the panel was asked,  "When did you know you were no longer a little girl anymore?" I'm grateful to have heard each of their stories and experiences. 

In and out of the political world, in and out of our own country, it is difficult to see the way women are spoken of and treated in much of media and culture. It would be so easy to let anger overcome it all. Seeing things like this reminded me that there are good, positive things happening for young girls. They are our future. And we cannot hold half the sky if our hands are bound and twisted in anger. Better to keep focused on hope and love, because those things prevail. 

After this it was time to get back home and relax. I got a new planner and new pens (...please tell me you have a favorite kind of pen, too!) that I am starting to write in things to do for this week. I got it specifically to write and plan my blog posts, and my life. We'll see how it goes!

How was your weekend? What are you most looking forward to this week?

Kristen

Link love: Folklife Festival, Free People kimono, StarTalk Radio, Albert Einstein Planetarium

My Experience with Flytographer // Honolulu, Hawaii

Excited does not even begin to describe how much I looked forward to and enjoyed my experience with Flytographer during our trip to Honolulu last summer. If you are taking a trip, you HAVE to know about this. I repeat: you must at least give this a look! It was an incredibly fun experience and we could have never captured these kinds of photos on our own.

Like I wrote in my last throwback post, my husband and I try to get at least one photo session together every year. We do not plan it around our exact anniversary, we just aim for a different setting each time. When in Hawaii, you kinda want to get photos of the incredible scenery. Even better than that, the scenery plus you actually being there in the moment. And so that's exactly what we did.

Flytographer is a photography service for vacation, proposals, and really any occasion you want. They work with selected photographers in a variety of cities all over the world. The packages range from 30 minutes, to an hour, or more. The cost for a one hour session was $350 and included two locations. Packages offered vary from city to city, but the cost appears to be the same (from what I can tell).

We browsed the Honolulu photographers on the site and really loved Trevor's work. It stood out because of the deep tones, beautiful locations, natural shots, and he just sounded like a creative, awesome person. All the couples in his shots looked relaxed and like they were having a blast- and we totally did, too.

After choosing the photographer, I filled out a request form that took only a few minutes to complete. The next day a Flytographer assistant was in touch and that person works between you and the photographer for scheduling, payment, planning your shoot, and answering any questions you may have along the way. We completed a shoot survey where we got to give details about what we really wanted from our session. Trevor had tons of suggestions for where to go.

The evening before the shoot, the same Flytographer assistant reached out again to confirm all the details. The morning of our session we met at Lanai Lookout for sunrise and it was stunning! And at our second location (not pictured) Trevor got shots of us in the water, which was super fun and felt so romantic. We also got a lot of beautiful portraits together, which I have not shared here, but know we were not limited to these same few poses. When we returned from our trip a link to download all the photos was sent to us!

Could you find your own local photographer at whatever location you are visiting? Yes, sure. But this service makes it all so much easier. Especially if you are traveling to a place where your primary language is not spoken. This is not a sponsored post by means, (I would be honest in my opinion regardless) but the customer service was really incredible, too. I would definitely do this again.

And last, whether through Flytographer or not, these kinds of experiences are not just for couples. Browse their blog and you will find photo sessions of solo travelers, families, girls' trips...you name it! There is always a reason to capture special days and I think the investment is well worth it. But you probably are not surprised to hear that from me! 

Happy travels!

Kristen

Link Love:

Flytographer website

A post by Laura of Mom in Manolos on the art of solo travel (I loved this!)

Red top (on sale!)

Denim shorts

Husband's button down (same brand, different pattern)

Sweet, Slow Summertime // Elizabeth and James from Rent the Runway

When a best friend asked me to share my summer goals, it really got me thinking. Last summer, travel was the best antidote to a difficult start to the year due to my mom being sick (she is okay now). The trips were a part of my own personal healing process and each place taught me something new about myself and what I want in life. It felt good to get out of town and see new things. From driving around Honolulu to find the best tacos, going to my best friend's wedding in China, to finally stepping foot on the west coast byway of Seattle- to name a few.



Shortly after my last trip- which was a yoga retreat, I felt a shift in my heart. My husband felt it, too. We decided months ago that we wanted to be intentional about this year and this summer especially. To discover the beauty of daily life and make the space we call home something more "us". A time of much desired simplicity and slowness. Bright, sunny mornings. Homemade smoothie bowls. Lounging around, with fun, weekend getaways in-between.



I want to create daily habits that nourish me and my family. I have felt drawn to writing and creating. Reading and reflecting. I want to be the person who has time to make and drink a cup of tea in the morning. Who throws a few things in a bag for a weekend or day-trip getaway but comes back to the nest. These are some of my hopes and goals for this season:

• Read some books I have been wanting to finish
• Create better daily habits, like drinking more water every day
• Host an event 
• Workout multiple times per week (gym, yoga at home, climbing)
• Do a FULL closet clean out
• Create and print photo books of travels
• Have a picnic at Meridian Hill Park
• Go to see Ai WeiWei's exhibit at Hirshhorn later this month

What are your goals? Are you planning any fun trips this summer? Follow whatever your heart is leading you to do. 

Kristen

Link Love: Ayla dress by Elizabeth and James

Puppy Love: A Dog's Life in Washington, DC

Well friends, this past Sunday I spent the morning indoor rock climbing and finally got my booty back on the stair machine again! I have a love-hate relationship with that thing. Later, during what seems like the most swelteringly hot and sunny afternoon, Logan and I took a walk to this adorable Watermelon House. I have to laugh when people tease about having a "dog child." From health and diet choices and daily routines, these fur babies really do need a lot of care and attention. While most of us picture a big backyard as the perfect place for a dog, an urban setting can be just as great. Logan has lived most of his life strutting his stuff down city streets and we have learned a thing or two along the way:

Dog friendly apartment buildings: Be aware of pet amenity fees. They very in cost but typically range from $50-100 per month, plus a possible one-time fee. There are apartment buildings that have full dog parks and other great amenities, making your fee more than worth it! The most useful amenities are spaces to let your dog out with doggy bag stations, and a pet washing station. 

Have fun at dog parks: Our favorite park downtown is the S Street Dog park on S and 17th NW. 

Know where to shop: Although you may find the best deals online, know where you can go for any last minute needs like food, toys, treats, or flea/tick treatments. There are quite a few Unleashed stores downtown so be sure to sign up for your Pals Rewards. 

Keep things tidy: We bought a simple but sizable storage drawer to keep all of Logan's toys, treats, and accessories. We started with a basket but that quickly became an eyesore. It got messy whenever he wanted something from the bottom, and inevitably things got tangled. We put baskets inside the drawer to keep things separated: accessories (leash, collars, etc), basket of toys, basket of balls.

Find a dog walker: Some good questions to ask of your dog walking service: will your dog always have the same walker? What if it rains? Ideally, I think working with an independent dog walker is best. They get to know your dog really well and you have direct communication with who you are working with. However, I have used a few dog walking services and found them to be just fine. I originally thought having a walker was a must, but Logan does just fine waiting for me to get home.

Find a dog sitter: My absolute favorite app for dog sitting is Rover. The app is incredibly well organized and I have met nothing but wonderful dog sitters through it! In fact, at one point I met three sitters and it was hard to choose one. When we travel, we have a dog sitter (or close friend) watch Logan in our apartment. 

Doggy day care: Logan has never been to a doggy day care in DC so I cannot speak to this from my own experience. However, I know dog owners who have their pups picked up around 9am and taken to a farm where they play and have fun all day long. The pups are then brought back home around 5pm. They literally come into your apartment, get your dog, and bring him/her back when the day is done! Like dog walking, this sounds great, but some pups just want to relax during the day. I know Logan does. 

Find your vet and animal hospital: Perhaps the most important thing you will decide is where to bring your pet for care. The best way to find your vet is to ask other dog owners where they go and what their experience was like. We started at one vet downtown that was great, but then moved to another where we felt Logan would have an even better experience. Besides yearly care save the phone number of your nearest animal hospital! We brought Logan to the Friendship Heights Animal Hospital for an emergency and received excellent care. Talk to your vet about having the necessary items to induce vomiting in case of emergencies like eating foods or materials that can cause serious harm. Once Logan swallowed a wasp and from that point forward our vet agreed, we needed to have the supplies and know how to use them. Of course, we would consult the vet over the phone before we do so, but at least we are equipped.

Other tips: I really love having a small security camera up to be able to see Logan when I am at work. The live stream can be pulled up on my phone and I can talk to him through it as well. There is no need for a specific camera for dogs, a small security camera will do. I do not leave it plugged in all the time, but it is nice to have the option. *Updated* Also, you will absolutely want a traffic leash. These are so important for making sure your pup stays safe while walking on busy streets.

Logie and I wish you a happy week ahead! 

Link Love: 
Traffic leash by Mighty Paw (own and LOVE)

Rover dog sitting

Baroo dog walking (have not tried them yet, but met a rep)

RarRarStyle dog bandana

J.Crew gingham dress (from last summer)

Ikea storage bench

How to Plan Romantic Anniversary Photos

One year anniversary photos are wonderfully fun to take and quite honestly, so much more fun than wedding day photos! With a scheduled couple's shoot, you have all the time in the world to plan your outfits, get your hair just right, and take them on a day with gorgeous weather. 

The photos in this post are just a sampling of the memories we captured on our one year anniversary. When we dated, I used to set up my camera and snap a few photos of us every season or so. Now, I love to go all out and work with a photographer to style a shoot each year. There is such beauty in having a memory of you and your other half as years go by. Having planned these a few times, here is a short guide on some things to consider when planning an anniversary session of your own:

1. First things first, dream up what you want your photos to look like. For our one year photos I knew I wanted hubby to be dapper and me in a gown. I pictured them being dreamy, romantic, and outdoors. If you could describe your own shoot, what would it be like? Of course, I browsed Pinterest. I later used my Pinterest board to show my photographer the exact style I was aiming for and see what she thought about it.
2. Reach out to a photographer. Even if they do not currently offer an anniversary package, just ask. I emailed Rachel and simply asked her if this was something she would be open to doing. Sure enough, she responded with a yes! 
3. Choose your location. Depending on the vibe you are going for your location will vary. I really hoped to have our one year photos in a natural setting in Virginia. I looked up inns, hotels, and unique locations that would work. Your photographer may recommend some favorite spots as well so definitely ask.
4. Start looking for your outfits at least 2 weeks in advance. Think about colors that flatter your skin tone and pieces that feel comfortable whether you are sitting, walking, standing, or twirling. For colors, I think navy is always a win for men or women. I think something chambray for one and pop of red for the other is a beautiful combination as well. Try to keep some contrast between the two of you. I do think it is nice to get something new for the photos. It looks fresh and adds to the fun of it all. 
5. When you meet with your photographer request individual photos! I ADORE having portrait photos of my husband alone! One is framed at my desk at work. 
6. If you feel like you are kind of stiff when it comes to posing, do not worry. One thing that always works is for the two of you to look at each other and one of you to start talking about how you met, how you feel in love, or another special memory. The look on your faces will just be glowing and you will naturally embrace and touch as you listen to each other. 
7. As an extra, we also plan a fun meal to enjoy afterwards. Why not?! 

Sample timeline:

2-3 months: dream up your ideal shoot and contact your photographer

1 month: If you're renting a dress, consider doing so at this point because certain styles book quickly!

2-3 weeks: Start selecting, ordering, and shopping for your outfits.

1-2 days prior: Get your nails done. Pick up any flowers (or flower crown perhaps!) that you may have ordered.

Day of: I changed into my gown when I arrived at Poplar Springs Inn. I packed my lipstick and a curling wand for a quick touch up if needed. If you are changing at the location, double check that you have your shoes and any special bra. Those are two things I am most likely to forget, ha.

And have fun! What is a special tradition you and your love share? I melt hearing what couples do to celebrate their love!

Almost Friday, ladies! Yay! 

Kristen

Link Love: Rachel May Photography, Amanda Veronee florals, Poplar Springs, Rent the Runway dress, and a similar dress