kkm

I’ve had many people ask me for recommendations on several different things ranging from clothing and accessories, to workouts and spray tans, so I decided to dedicate this post to a few of my favorites.  Only one tip exclusively applies to the Atlanta area (most are accessible no matter where you live); and while most of my favorites may be more appealing to the ladies, a few I believe the guys may find of interest as well (I’ll start with those).  I’ve made it easy and inserted links throughout (and FYI, I’m not a paid sponsor – these are just my favorites!)

While I had been a long time member of a “big box” gym, I slowly branched out many years back and started trying different “boutique fitness” locations as they became popular.  While I really enjoyed the smaller studio settings, most of the price packages started getting way out of hand.  That’s when I tried Orangetheory  (studios are nation/worldwide) and discovered what an amazing workout it is; you get a great combination of both strength and cardio in a more personalized setting, and it’s constantly changing so you can’t get bored.  And while the price is higher than a big gym, it is way more reasonable than it’s competitive smaller boutique studios.  I also supplement that membership with ClassPass (also nation/worldwide), which has different levels/prices of membership, and allows you to try out many of the smaller studios without committing to their bigger price tags.  (I use this especially for yoga and spin classes.)

My yearlong glow is thanks to Raw Bronzing Studio.  Some of you know that I am a melanoma survivor (almost 15 years ago!) due to my years of lifeguarding and worshipping the sun.  I have since vowed to only tan the safe way, as did the founder of this wonderful business.  And it’s not all women cliental there – Chad (aka Carlos, my Latin lover) goes before our beach vacations, as well as several other men I know.  While Raw’s several locations are only in the Atlanta area for now, if you don’t live here, search for a studio in your area offering an organic formula that is applied by an actual person and not a booth – it makes a difference!

As far as some of my favorite accessories go, I have gotten most of them from the Box of Style.  It’s a seasonal (quarterly) subscription box curated by stylist and designer, Rachael Zoe.  What makes this one different than most, is that everything is full sized, and you keep it all for only $99.  Each box usually has a gorgeous purse, bag, or clutch; some sort of clothing accessory, like a beautiful scarf, wrap, or beach cover up; a unique piece of jewelry; and a beauty product like skincare, makeup, or both.  The Missoni beach towel in the current Summer box makes it worth the cost alone!  (I think there’s also a discount on your first box, so check it out!)

And, finally, without fail, I always get a compliment anytime I’m wearing a piece of clothing from Atlanta-based designer, Abbey Glass.  I first met her not long after she opened her boutique at Ponce City Market (which has now moved to the Shops of Buckhead, but she also sells online).  She’s young, talented, and I can’t get enough of her designs.  The prices are a little higher than a chain retailer, but the details in the cut and unique designs are totally worth it.  If you’ve never shopped her clothing before, the code –  R19MOODY  – will get you 15% off your first full-priced online purchase (*and I will get a discount as well*).  Kära 2.0 may be taking a break from shopping there for now, but I will most definitely be back!

I have so many more favorite things (not just personal style related) that I may have to continue this in another post. So, if there are any other favorites you’d like me to share, please let me know! And I would love to hear any that you may have…  I’m always looking for new tips and tricks, and I’m always happy to share all of mine!