Beach days are the best days, let’s be honest. I am so lucky to be living a mere half of an hour from the shore. Even though we are still social distancing, let’s be honest — a beach day is needed in the summer to recharge your batteries.
Last Friday night, I went to the beach with my friends and broke out this crochet straw purse from LC Lauren Conrad. This straw purse is perfect for summer and it’s affordable. When I first was on the hunt for these purses, they were expensive. However, I paid $20 for this, and now they are on clearance for the summer. Can’t beat that.
What I love about straw purses is that they are carefree. I don’t have to worry about sand getting into my purse, which is something that I’ve struggled with for years. And, it does hold a lot, despite it’s smaller size.
Recently, I’ve become obsessed with consigning. For a while, I would go to the consignment store just to sell some of my mom’s clothes that didn’t fit and were in excellent condition. Since the pandemic hit, I began to actually look through the shelves of the consignment store. And, let me tell you that you can find some amazing treasures. For instance, I was able to purchase a new Dooney and Bourke purse – with tags – for $27. The price tag said it was $200. And, that’s not the only deal that I’ve been able to find. So, here are some tips to help you find some amazing deals.
Make sure you’re buying it because you like it, not because the price is right: Have you ever found something that was a deal that was something that was too good to pass up, only to never use it. We’ve all been there. When buying consignment, really give thought to the items you are going to purchase. What are you going to use it for? What are you going to wear it with? Even though it is a good price, still buying items that you are not going to use is still a waste of money.
Know if it’s a good deal: I am a frequent luxury browser on the consignment market. For this, you gotta know your prices. For instance, if you’re looking at a mini pochette, and paying $500 for it, it is definitely not a good deal. Sure, those are really hard to get. However, I find it crazy that people upcharge it that much.
Do your research: I am familiar with how things cost because I look them up online. Therefore, if you’re on Poshmark or any other site, take a look at the brand’s website to see how much things cost on there. Sometimes, you can get things for half off. For example, I wanted a Longchamp Makeup pouch. On Nordstrom and Bloomingdales, they go for $55. I picked one up – new with tags – for $25. $30 with shipping.
Hit up your local stores: Sure, sites like Poshmark and Ebay offer great deals. But, the true hidden gems are the local ones. So, google consignment stores in your area and explore.
Go often: Try to hit up your local consignment store at least once a month. Their stock changes constantly, so while they may not have the best deals one day, the next day they may have items that you become obsessed with.
Follow them on social media: Many local shops now have Facebook or Instagram pages. And, they use that as an opportunity to share their newest and awesome finds. What’s even better is that some will let you call to reserve the items and then pick it up.
Make offers: Use apps like Poshmark to get great deals as well. I would say don’t lowball them, but definitely work with sellers to get a good deal.
Favorite items: If you like something, put a heart on it. In my experience, sellers will often create an offer with discounted shipping. Win, win.
Sell unwanted goods: Many of us have those items that we’ve never touch or only wore once and that was it. Why not bring them to the consignment store? What is good about doing this is that many consignment stores offer a discount for using that credit, so you can get items at an even better price.
I don’t know about you, but I love Etsy. I love that you can find pretty much everything on there, including handmade unique items.
On today’s Women Who Work, I am chatting with Erica who is the owner of Happily Ever Erica. Her shop is the place to go if you need accessories (from jewelry to scrunchies to key fobs), coasters, shorts and so much more. And, the best part? Everything on her site is handmade by Erica herself. (As a side note, I am so excited to receive my scrunchie that I ordered from her a few days ago.)
So, without further a due, let’s learn more about Erica’s awesome Etsy shop!
Erica, the owner of Happily Ever Erica. Photo Credit: Erica Izzo
How long has Happily Ever Erica been open? How did it get started?
Happily Ever Erica opened in 2018. It started on Instagram and the only item for sale at the time were tiny beaded bracelets with charms!
How has your shop grown since you first started?
A couple months after opening, I officially opened my Etsy shop and added the second item to my shop which were hand-painted coasters. I started with One Tree Hill inspired coasters (my biggest tv show obsession) and slowly added others inspired by different shows, movies, disney characters and Disney World attractions. From there I began doing custom orders such as names, initials, flowers, quotes and my newest, a wedding collection. From there, I began adding more and more items to my shop!-I always post my items on Instagram and Facebook to reach a bigger audience. I also sell to locals this way. Depending on location and my schedule I sometimes will drop off, but my house has become a popular pickup location lately.
Photo Credit: Erica Izzo
What do you sell currently?
Right now in my shop I sell scrunchies, wristlet lanyards, bracelets, coasters and my newest, up-cycled shorts and tees/crop tops! I have also been making masks over the last few months, so send me an email or message for your mask needs!
How long have you been making things?
I’ve loved arts and crafts since I was little. When I was younger I always had lemonade stands and would sell string friendship bracelets and my lemonade stands!
What inspires you with new items?
I like to follow trends. I always want to make items that people are into at the moment and things they will use daily!
These coasters, which can be customized, make such a great gift. Photo Credit: Erica Izzo
Do you do custom orders? If so, what is the process?
I do! I can be contacted through Etsy or any of my social media sites. For items such as lanyards or scrunchies, it is just a matter of finding the right fabric. Lately a lot of college students have been messaging me for their schools’ colors or logos and then I search for the fabric! Anything in my shop can easily be customized! Send me all your custom ideas and we will make it happen!!
What is your favorite part about being an Etsy Seller?
Crafting and meeting new people! I am constantly working on something which keeps me busy (and keeps me inside rather than going out and spending money on more clothes and home decor that I don’t need!!) I also love meeting new people through Etsy. I have a lot of repeat customers all over the country who have become friends instead of just customers 🙂
Photo Credit: Erica Izzo
What is your next goal with the shop?
Right now I am working on some new up-cycled clothing that will be out very soon! I am also in the process of working on new coasters and bracelets! In addition to Happily Ever Erica, this week I am opening a second shop called “Erica and Erika Designs” which is a new shop with my friend! About a year ago we started painting rocks and selling them at craft fairs, which to our surprise was actually a huge hit! Our rocks can also be found in two hair salon boutiques. (Tresses and Treasures and A Dash of Color, both in North Haven, CT) We decided it’s now time to open our own shop!
Finally, what is some advice you would give someone who wants to open their own shop? Whether you want to do it as just a hobby or a business, go for it! For me, I thought it would just be something fun to do in my free time. but it has turned into so much more than that for me! From making time to shop and spending money on supplies, taking time each day to craft, packaging and shipping orders, it does take a lot of time, but for me it is totally worth it!
Happy Wednesday everyone! It’s getting really hot in my state and it certainly feels like summer. That said, this week I have a lot of favorites to share. Some of these are birthday gifts, which I am so happy and grateful for. Anyways, stay cool and here are my favorites.
Pandora Wish Rings:
I treated myself hardcore at Pandora. I purchased the Wheat Grains Wishbone Ring in silver and the Polished Wishbone Ring in Rose Gold. Let me tell you — I am obsessed. I love stacking them together, and the two toned look. I’ve been wearing them since I purchased them, and I am so happy with them.
Jillian Michaels 30 Day Beginner Shred:
I started to do the regular shred only to stop within the first ten days. The same goes with this workout program.
After learning I gained some weight, I knew it was time. Part of the reason why I’ve been gaining weight is simply because I’m having a hard time balancing working out with working full time.
What I love about this workout is that it works and it’s 20 minutes. When I finish the video, I feel sore and amazing. Sure, it’s not easy. But, it’s not as intimidating as the regular. Therefore, I am motivated to continue working out hard and push myself to be stronger which I like.
Oh, and the results? I have lost about 2 pounds. But I’ve gained muscle strength. And, my clothes fit better as well.
Madewell Bucket Bag:
I had a Madewell gift card and I decided to purchase two purses that I had my eye on. The first is the Transport tote, which is meant to be more for when I have to carry my computer to work to transfer notes. I haven’t used that one yet, though. Furthermore, I also purchased the bucket bag for everyday use. I’ve used it for a week now and I love it. It fits all of my stuff — minus the laptop— including my Kindle Paperwhite. And it is really versatile — you can either use it crossbody or you can just it over your shoulder. Either way, it’s definitely a great investment.
Camp Rock:
I’m a Demi Lovato fan and I haven’t seen Camp Rock. Yup. This was true up until last week. Thanks to Disney Plus, I was able to watch both movies. And while I enjoyed them then, I know that I would have been obsessed with them when I was a teen. I also have been listening to the soundtrack a bit since then. (Fun fact: This is Me was one of my favorite songs back in my freshman year, so while I was watching this, I desperately wanted my iPod Nano back)
Anthropologie Initial Necklace:
Another fun purchase I bought this past was was the large Anthropologie Monogram Necklace. I am a sucker for anything with my initials on it, so this necklace was perfect for me. The gold goes with my other pieces and it’s so fun. I have been wanting this version of this for a while and am so glad that I purchased this to add to my initial collection.
Listening to Podcasts:
I’ve been off my podcast game as of late. Lately I have been getting into them again more and more and it feels amazing. My current favorites are Gals on the Go and What’s Next With Michelle Reed. I am looking for more so if you have any podcast recommendations, please let me know in the comments below.
Starbucks Refreshers:
Finally, as I said earlier, it’s been really hot outside. To help quench my thirst, I’ve been treating myself to some Strawberry Lemonade Refreshers. And, let me tell you, they are so refreshing. I have been getting them everyday this week and these have become my go-to.
Today kicks off of the first day of the Reading Rush Readathon, hosted by Raeleen and booktuber Ariel Bissett. The Reading Rush Readathon goes from today, July 20, 2020 to July 26, 2020. In this time, there is seven different prompts that you can choose from to read. Of course, you can just read whatever, but I thought it would be fun to try to get as many as humanly possible accomplished.
That said, I have chosen six books to read. One of them is a graphic novel. I hope to get through at least two of them, plus the graphic novel, but we shall see. That being said, here is my TBR for the Reading Rush Readathon:
Read a book with a cover that matches the colour of your birth stone.
For this, I picked the Astonishing Color of After by Emily X.R. Pan. I picked this book, because I have heard great things about it, but I never had an excuse to read it. I decided that since I didn’t have any unread books that fit this bill, that maybe this would be a good book to read.
Read a book that starts with the word “the.”
I have a few that fit this bill, but for this, I am going to choose The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah, because that has been on my TBR for a while.
Read a book that inspired a movie you’ve already seen.
For this, I am choosing Before by Anna Todd. I saw After last year, and obsessively read the series shortly after – no pun intended. Before is told through Harden’s point of view. Since I’ve read these books before and loved them, I know that this is a book that I can fly through pretty quickly.
Read the first book you touch.
This is a weird prompt. For this I took out the two book club books I had and closed my eyes to point out which one to choose. So, I choose The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett for this one.
Read a book completely outside of your house.
Ahh the joys of a graphic novel. I am going with the Great Gatsby graphic novel edition, because I can read this outside during my lunch break and read it in one sitting. And, if I don’t finish The Nightingale, this could apply to the second prompt as well.
Read a book in a genre that you’ve always wanted to read more of.
I have been wanting to read more historical fiction, and one of the top ones is the Nightingale.
Read a book that takes place on a different continent than where you live.
For this, I am picking up I Owe You One by Sophie Kinsella, since her books take place in the United Kingdom, and this is the last book of hers that I haven’t read. This has actually been on my TBR since I bought it in an airport in San Diego, and so I really want to get to this book as well.
That concludes my TBR for this readathon. Are you participating in the Reading Rush? If so, please comment what you’re aspiring to read in the comments below.
Happy hump day everyone! Enter in another What I Love Wednesday. This week has a lot of new ones, ranging from music to purses to of course SV Decker jewelry. So, without further a due, here is what I am loving this week!
Madewell Elsewhere Tie Tote Bag:
I have been obsessed with Madewell’s clothing, jewelry and purses as of late. What I like about the brand is that they are true to the made and they are Madewell.
Now I’ve been using this purse for over a week for work straight and I love it. I have a lot of designer purses and this one just seems to work. It fits everything that I need for work, from my water bottle to my lunch. I can even fit a book as well. Furthermore, I also like that you can tell that the purse is a quality bag, and it’s very substantial. I have it in both black and brown, but honestly the brown has been my go-to.
JoJo’s Good to Know Acoustic Album:
JoJo released the acoustic version of Good to Know, and let me tell you — it is gorgeous. In these stripped down songs, her vocals really shine and it gives the songs a completely different— and beautiful — vibe. I highly recommend checking it out if you haven’t already.
SV Decker Decorative Layering Chain:
Okay so you all know my jewelry as of late has been coming from SV Decker. She recently got this layering chain in stock and I am obsessed. It is perfect pairing with longer necklaces for a layering look. And, it’s comfortable! I have paired it with a few of my gold necklaces and I am in love. Furthermore, it also looks good on its own as well, which makes this even more versatile.
Recent Reads:
I have been reading a lot of great books this week. I finished Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevado over the weekend for my book club book and it was amazing. It was the first book by the author that I read and I loved it. Told entirely in verse, the book is about two girls who lost their father in a plane crash. Little did they know that he was living a double life. This book was really impactful and I highly recommend it.
I am currently reading What You Wish For by Katherine Center and I am loving it. I am a huge fan of hers, and needless to say, I am loving this read as well.
What are you loving this week? Let me know in the comments below.
I don’t know about you all, but I love a good deal. In honor of my 26th birthday on Sunday, here are some great birthday coupons that you can use to treat yourself with. Trust me, it is worth it. All you have to do is sign up for their email promotion list.
Kendra Scott: 50 percent off of any jewelry piece and 25 percent off of any fine jewelry piece.
2. Urban Outfitters: 20 percent off of any purchase of $50 or more (aka the perfect place to spend any birthday cash)
3. Anthropologie: 20 percent off of your purchase
4. Tory Burch: $50 off of any item
5. Starbucks: Free drink on your birthday
6. Madewell: $25 off of your purchase.
7. Brugger’s Bagels: Free bagel with cream cheese
8. Book of the Month: Members can get a free add-on with their birthday month box
9. Dunkin’: If you sign up for the Dunkin’ Rewards, you can get a free medium drink on your birthday. That said, I would try the Strawberry Dragonfruit Refresher, because it is amazing.
10. IHOP:A free stack of pancakes. Talk about a delicious birthday breakfast.
11. Best Buy: 20 percent off of your purchase.
12. Panera: Free birthday treat.
13. Kohl’s: Rewards members can get $10 coupons.
14. Target: Target Circle members get 5 percent off of their total in-store or online purchase.
I don’t know how this tradition got started, but every year on my birthday (or the day after, since my birthday was yesterday) I would publish a blog post about turning whatever that age may be.
This year is 26.
Wow, even writing that feels kind of old. In grand perspective, I am over a quarter of a century old. I am aged out of my parents’ health insurance. I am in my mid-to late 20s.
Now, your 20s is such a weird time. Especially your late 20s. Half of your friends are either engaged, married or expecting. The other half is just out there enjoying life. And, of course, there is this expectation that you need to have everything figured out. The relationship you are in should have a future. If you’re not in one, then you question whether or not you should be looking for something serious, or just looking for something simple. Pretty much, I can compare it to the first season of Sex and the City.
This past year, things have pretty much calmed down for me. I got a dog. I started really moving forward from my mom’s death. I am learning to forgive, and to speak up for what’s right for me. I am getting better with managing money.
While I may not have all of the answers, I will say that I am doing a lot better than just a year ago. And, I am proud of myself for that.
Finally, one of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn was setting boundaries. Boundaries for balance, social events, etc. Now, what do I mean by that? I mean I’m making sure that I am taking care of me, whether it may mean that I am skipping out on a gathering of friends (well until COVID-19 hit) after a long week or even trying to make sure that I am doing what is right for me. It’s not well received, especially when I’ve made it a habit to prioritize everything but my own self care in the past. However, I can honestly say that I’ve never been happier.
At the end of day, I’ve learned that my happiness matters. Which is why my goal in life for this next year is to prioritize it. To put my mental and physical health first. To breathe. I think that’s the biggest goal I can have, because after all, I am only 26.
So, here’s to 26 everyone.
Now maybe this is the year I start an Etsy shop. Stay tuned.
Summertime is my favorite time of year. I am a cancer, and so I’m a huge fan of beach and pool days.
Let’s just be honest here. This summer is going to be a little bit different than in summers past due to social distancing requirements and COVID-19. That said, I have found quite a few summer clothing pieces that I am really enjoying this year.
Biker Shorts:
This trend is a bit iffy, but I am loving it. I like them because they are a shorter version of leggings, which as many of you know, I live in. These are super comfortable and they are such a great alternative to wearing leggings all of the time.
White Shorts/Pants:
For me, summer screams white pants and shorts. I got into this a few years ago and I have been wearing white jeans and shorts ever since. I like them because you can pair it with pretty much any color in your wardrobe. Gotta love the versatility here people. Even though it’s the same material as wearing jean shorts, I feel so much put together with them on with a black, gray or navy top. Furthermore, the white pants are great for work paired with a navy or black top. I recently picked up these from Old Navy and I’m so excited to wear these throughout the summer.
Birkenstock:
Okay, I know that these have been around for years. Last year, I got knock-off Birkenstocks, and noticed that they don’t have as much support as the original ones did. So I bought the real ones and loved them. I love being able to pair them with jeans, dresses, and shorts — just to name a few things. I got them in a beige color, so they can go with everything.
Okay, so these aren’t a trend. But, these are something new to my summer wardrobe, so they count.
Tie Dye:
This shirt is a few years old, however I’m still loving the tie dye trend!
I hopped on the tie dye trend, and I love it. The shirt that I have been wearing is from Madewell, and I love this because it just adds a little bit of fun to my usual non-working wardrobe of jean shorts. I also like it because it can go with black biker shorts and it can go with jeans as well.
Straw Purses:
I bought this mainly because I know that when I go to the beach, I don’t want to take one of my regular purses since they are on the pricey side. I like these purses because it eliminates the worry of getting damaged. Plus, to me it screams summer. I am pretty sure that I will be wearing this to places that are not the beach because it seems like a great summer bag and adds a layer of fun. I got the LC Lauren Conrad Cookie Crossbody Purse in pink and in khaki from Kohl’s, and they are a lot cheaper than all of the ones that I’ve been seeing around. And, for a purse like this, I couldn’t justify spending a lot of money on it.
So, those are some of my favorite trend items for this year. What items have you been gravitating towards? Let me know in the comments below.
Happy Wednesday everyone! It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these, so I wanted to share some of my new favorites as of late.
Birkenstocks:
I’ve been procrastinating on buying these shoes for years. Last year, I actually purchased dupes of these, and I instantly regretted it. This year, I was able to snag a pair of the Arizonas. I love these because they are super comfortable and have a lot of support, which is something that I need. I got mine in a neutral color, so it can be paired with pretty much everything. Furthermore, I love how I can use it with dresses, shorts or jeans. If you’re contemplating buying a pair, I highly recommend that you do, because they are 100 percent worth it.
Clinique Chubby Sticks:
I am a very simple person when it comes to makeup. However, I am obsessed with Clinique Chubby Sticks. I got the Hefty Highlight one in a moisturizer pack, and am loving it. Seeing how well I loved that, I then picked up a Chubby Stick for Cheeks in Robust Rhubarb, but at the time of writing this, I have not tried it yet. What I like about these versus traditional makeup is just how simple they are. You just put it on and blend it in. Simple and easy.
Also, I definitely will buy the Hefty Highlight again and highly recommend it to anyone.
Colleen Hoover:
Lately, I have been reading a lot of Colleen Hoover. I finally read Ugly Love and Regretting You, and as expected, I was obsessed with both of them. I have read a few of her books in the past year, including Hopeless, It Ends With Us, and Verity, and loved them all, so naturally it’s no surprise that I love these as well. All of her books remind me of Lifetime movies, but in the best possible way. So, if you’re looking for some addictive drama, definitely check out her books.
Madewell Spilt Hoop Earrings:
I picked up these earrings a few weeks back, and I am obsessed with them. It’s no surprise that I am obsessed with hoops as of late. What I love about these is that they are small, lightweight, but still manage to pack a punch. They are also a lot different than the typical hoop earring that you get, which I love as well. Furthermore, they are only $22, and I had my birthday coupon. Can’t beat that.
Dunkin‘ Refreshers:
Dunkin’ came out with new iced teas this summer and I’m obsessed with the Strawberry Refresher one. It is very similar to the Starbucks one, but I’ve found that I like this one more. It has a strawberry flavor with faint hints of green tea. They also have a peach one, which I haven’t tried. I highly recommend trying them, especially if you’re into iced tea like I am.
What are you loving this week? Let me know in the comments below.
thenutmegmillennial.com 