Favorite Things – A Dash of Solt

BRAND SPOTLIGHT: THE BEACH AND BACK

Published on February 14, 2022February 14, 2022 by ShannonLeave a comment

I’m so excited to share this month’s Brand Spotlight with you! If you love jewelry that is classic, elegant and coastal inspired then you will love the beach and back.

Based in New Jersey, Carey dreamed up the idea of the beach and back in 2020 when she wanted to create a brand that would unite fellow beachgoers. With a background in graphic design and an extensive career doing product development in the fashion industry, Carey had the tools she needed to branch out and create her own brand.

The mission of the brand is simple: to create simple and elegant pieces inspired by the ocean. I’ve had the pleasure of owning three of her bracelets and I can tell you firsthand how lovely this jewelry is to wear and style.

As a fellow coastal lover, I love the simple designs of her jewelry. The ocean wave bracelet is my favorite! The simplicity of the blue waves paired with a gold bangle is the perfect amount of coastal. It’s truly such a unique design. I love to pair this bracelet with other the beach and back bracelets or with a few other bracelets from my favorite brands.

I also find the design of the Marco Island slider bracelets so beautiful. The hand drawn tulip shell accent is so pretty! I love to style these slider bracelets with the ocean wave bracelet. They are equally gorgeous styled separately though – they are just so elegant and timeless. Plus these bracelets are designed to be easily adjustable which I love!

Clearly I’m a fan of the designs and style, but I’m also a fan of the quality. I love jewelry, especially bracelets. But I’m also a mom to two littles and so my jewelry needs to be durable. I can honestly wear these bracelets all day and not worry if a certain little chunk tries to grab or tug on them. These bracelets are truly top notch and made out of beautiful materials.

You guys know I love supporting small businesses and I hope you take the time to check out the beach and back. I promise you won’t be disappointed and you will come to love this coastal brand.

And while you are shopping, be sure to use the code SOLTATTHEBEACH for 15% off!

Sláinte,

Shannon

SOLTY FRIDAYS 10.15

Published on October 15, 2021October 14, 2021 by ShannonLeave a comment

Another edition of Solty Friday’s is below!

Last weekend, Rob and I enjoyed a day date at our favorite brewery (Twin Oast), followed by a walk along the North Shores of Lake Erie. I brought along my exceptionally cozy sweatshirt from Rudder USA because I knew it was going to be chilly on the beach. I love the fit of this sweatshirt and how it’s a little bit longer, something I definitely appreciate post baby! Earlier this year I shared a Brand Spotlight on this Midwest based brand. You can read more about them here.

This week I received some happy mail from Eva’s House. I actually won a giveaway hosted by Eva and a few other bloggers a few months ago and I’ve been obsessed with the quality and style of these bows and headbands for Lilly ever since. All of the bows, headbands, and scrunchies are handmade by Eva herself. The products are beautifully made and so elegant in design. Plus, Eva is such a kind and beautiful person and so it’s easy to support her business. I bought this style for Lilly’s stockings in navy and light pink. I’m so excited to give these to her, I don’t know if I can wait until Christmas! Definitely check out Eva’s House and give her a follow on Instagram.

Books: I just finished reading The Midnight Library. A New York Times bestselling book, this story really makes your mind wonder what could have been. In short, this story is about the choices we make and don’t make and how that affects our life (or our many different variations of our life). It’s a fascinating and charming read and I highly recommend it. Up next on my list is The Lighthouse Witches – a book that involves witches and Scotland so naturally I’m intrigued.

Like everyone else, I’m already buying gifts for Christmas. Lilly has been obsessed with her play kitchen lately. We play picnic, bakery, supermarket -you name it- on a daily basis, so we thought it would be fun to buy her a “Farmer’s Market.” I found this Kid Kraft version on Amazon and cannot wait to give it to her.

I’m hosting a giveaway on Instagram this week with some lovely bloggers and we are gifting a lucky person $180 to Lake Pajamas! I’ve been wearing Lake Pajamas for several years now and I have to say they are hands down my favorite. They are just insanely soft, comfortable, and flattering. I highly recommend you check out the giveaway if you want to try and win some new jammies!

And with that, I will sign off for the weekend.

Slainte,

Shannon

ON THE BLOG THIS WEEK

Style: 30 Days of Daily Style

SOLTY FRIDAYS 09.24

Published on September 24, 2021September 24, 2021 by ShannonLeave a comment

I can’t believe it’s Friday already. The days somehow are very long but also fly by at the same time. We don’t have much planned for this weekend except for a few household chores, which nowadays is about all we can handle as we still adjust to being a family of four. Below are a few things that I’ve been thinking about this week.

Now that Fall has arrived and the temperatures are quickly getting cooler, I’m looking to add a few cozy sweatshirts to my collection. My favorite sweatshirts are my Erie and Anchor ones. They are seriously the softest and comfiest sweatshirts I’ve ever owned. I wear them ALL the time. I’m loving this one, this one, and this one for me and this one for Lilly. Last year I put together a holiday gift guide of all my favorite Erie and Anchor styles. You can find there here.
I’m still on the hunt for a pair of postpartum jeans. After Lilly was born I was back in my normal clothes very quickly, but I’m pretty sure my entire body shape has changed after having Teddy so I can’t seem to find jeans that fit this new body. Currently looking to try these three styles: Denim Jean 1, Denim Jean 2, Denim Jean 3.
The Morning Show started last week and I’m so excited for this second season. We absolutely loved the first season so I have high hopes for this one.
Although there isn’t much time for reading these days, I try to carve out twenty minutes before bed to read a little something. I just finished The House in the Cerulean Sea and I highly recommend if you like magical and whimsical tales that end happy. I’m also reading the 123 Magic Book which is about parenting toddlers (a recommendation from my friend Stephanie from Linen and Littles) – we definitely need all the help we can get in that arena as our precious toddler certainly has a spirit of her own lately.
If you follow me on Instagram you will have seen that I’m running a giveaway with Bits and Bows, Duffield Lane, and two of my favorite mommy bloggers. Be sure to check it out to enter to win a matching Mommy and Me baseball hat set and $100 to Duffield Lane!

That’s all for now!

Happy weekend!

Shannon

SOLTY FRIDAY’S 03.12

Published on March 12, 2021March 11, 2021 by ShannonLeave a comment

I feel a renewed sense of life and inspiration this week with the spring-like weather! I know it’s going to end (40s and snow forecasted next week, yuck!!), but L and I have enjoyed being outside as much as possible and it’s given us energy and joy that we haven’t felt in months. Even though we’ve been busy playing, I’ve rounded up some friday favorites and I’m sharing them below!

> If you follow me on Instagram, you will know that I’ve been craving orange juice and lemonade throughout this pregnancy. Although I love both, they are both very high in sugar, and although I’m eating sugar occasionally with this pregnancy, I’m trying to cut refined sugars where I can. I recently became aware of an Ohio based sparkling tea company called Spritz Tea. The tea is bubbly but zero sugar, non-alcoholic, and only real ingredients. I’ve been trying them out all week and they are a great alternative to the juices and lemonade I’ve been craving. Check them out by clicking here and use the code TRYSPRITZ to receive 10% off your order!

P.s. these would pair deliciously with vodka or gin for a yummy summer cocktail!

> I’ve been shopping for some small sweet items to fill up Lilly’s Easter basket. Click here to see what I bought her!

> This week on the blog I shared my (very small) plans for growing a flower garden this summer. To celebrate this new project, I paired up with two fellow garden lovers to host a giveaway on our Instagrams! Head on over to my page to enter to win a gardening kit. Giveaway ends today!

> One of my favorite Ohio based coastal brands is Shore Society. The spring line was just released last week and it’s so good. I’m seriously in love with this new sweatshirt.

> My latest home decor obsession is Home Again with the Fords. I’ve been following Leanne and Steve Ford for several years and I adore their style. They are back with a new show where they restore people’s childhood homes in Pittsburgh. Although their design style is not coastal, I love and appreciate their design decisions so much. They always make me remember and appreciate why I love design and art. And Leanne’s fashion choices remind me so much of my time in New York – I love! The show airs on HGTV.

> My friend Stephanie from Linen and Littles is sharing an incredibly brave post this week. Stephanie is living with MS and she often shares her journey on her blog and Instagram. This week in particular is MS Awareness Week and Stephanie shared a very powerful glimpse into what it’s been like living with MS, especially with two young toddlers. Click here for the read.

On the Blog Lately

Slainte,

Shannon

SOLTY FRIDAY’S 03.05

Published on March 5, 2021March 4, 2021 by ShannonLeave a comment

Happy Friday! I have some fun Friday favorites for you all today. Today’s Solty Friday’s is a mix of style, what I’m watching, what I’m shopping for and more.

> If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I’m a brand ambassador for Sarah Flint shoes. This week the brand just launched the classiest and cutest ballet flats! I’m obsessed with the pink petal color! Shop them here, and don’t forget, you can receive $50 off your first pair of Sarah Flint shoes by using the code : SARAHFLINT-BASHANNONS.⁠

> This entire week I’ve been binge watching Firefly Lane on Netflix. I read the book a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m equally enjoying the tv version. If you like drama, family, and stories about best friends, oh and 70s, 80s, and 90s fashion, then you’ll love this show.

> I haven’t been shopping for regular clothes because, well you know, pregnant. But I did go on the J.Crew Factory site this week and I now have about five things in my shopping car. So many cute spring styles. Shop my favorite looks here.

> If there is one item on my wish list for spring, it’s this gorgeous blue and white floral nap dress from Hill House. If you are a follower of fashion bloggers, you will know this dress is all the rage. Apparently it’s beautiful quality and fits perfectly. And rumor has it that it’s bump friendly. Definitely something I’m keeping my eye on the next few weeks.

> This week we noticed that our master bedroom vanity sink is leaking. Our vanity is actually an old wood dresser – cute in concept but the wood top is completely ruined from water over the years (it came with the house). We have to replace it so I’m currently shopping for double vanities and boy are they expensive! We are talking $1500-$3000 for a decent double vanity. Once we narrow down some options I’ll be sure to share.

> I picked out two different options of wallpaper for Lilly’s big girl room and an option for baby boy’s room. Luckily the nursery is already pretty neutral so swapping out the wallpaper and some artwork is the only thing I have to do. Here are links to the options I’m looking at: option 1 for L, option 2 for L, option for baby boy.

> If you love gardening or have an interest in wishing to become a gardener, then be sure to pop by my Instagram next week for something exciting!

Slainte,

Shannon

SOLTY FRIDAY’S 2.12

Published on February 12, 2021February 11, 2021 by ShannonLeave a comment

We are feeling so much love and excitement this week! There has been so much joy during a time that can often feel dark, never ending, and isolating. So thank you, to all of you, for making us feel so special this week. Below are this week’s Solty Friday’s!

> This Valentine’s Day, you better believe we will be spending it watching the new show on Starz starring Sam Heughan called Men in Kilts. It’s going to be an epically hilarious adventure around Scotland and I cannot wait.

> I have a love-hate relationship with maternity clothing. The baby blue dress I posted on my IG today is a great non-maternity Amazon find that is perfect for a growing bump.

> We started teaching Lilly word recognition and have been using these flashcards. So far she’s loving this “game.”

> The new Endless Summer Notecard Collection from Jen Strandberg Studio is my new favorite way to stay organized and make to-do lists. Her coastal watercolors are beautiful on this new line of stationary. Be sure to check out her shop and get 15% off with code SHANNON15!

> I shared these adorable LOVE sweatshirts from my friend Meg’s Boutique, Meg & Marie. These sweatshirts are sooo comfy and so cute! There are three adult styles and two children styles to choose from, along with various color options. Definitely a must if you have a little! You can see how L and I styled ours here.

> Although we are beyond excited for baby boy, like every pregnancy, we have some new anxieties and fears. Lemon Stripes wrote an article about her fears around having a second baby and it 100% rang true for me. Read the blog post here.

> Like many, I’m obsessed with the Liberty Prints line from J.Crew (mini floral and paisley abstract prints). This headband was $15 this week so you better believe it’s now a part of my headband collection.

Recently on the Blog

> Baby #2 Announcement

> Indoor Toddler Activities

> Crewneck Sweater, Three Ways

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Slainte,

Shannon

SOLTY FRIDAY’S 02.05

Published on February 5, 2021February 4, 2021 by ShannonLeave a comment

It’s been awhile since I’ve posted a Solty Friday’s post, but I’m happy to say this popular series is back! There has been so much going on and so many things to share. Keep reading to find out all the things I’ve been loving lately.

> I’m constantly thinking about the future flower garden I want to plant this summer and this book by Floret Farm has been so educational. Plus the images are just stunning.

> Rob gifted me these gorgeous earrings for Christmas, handmade by my friend Roula. I’ve been wearing them nonstop. They seriously go with everything and perfectly add an extra element of style to any outfit.

> Like everyone else who is confined to their homes this winter, we’ve been watching our fair share of movies and tv shows. Our favorite tv shows lately have been The Bachelor, Wanda Vision, Jersey Shore, the West Wing, and Bridgerton. We also watched the movie the Trial of the Chicago 7 on Netflix (Eddie Redmayne stars in it!) and it was amazing. We highly recommend it.

> I just finished up an amazingly hilarious, witty, and overall feel good book called Clanlands. It’s based off of the Starz TV show Men in Kilts that airs on February 14, starring yours truly Sam Heughan, aka Jamie Fraser from Outlander. If you love Outlander, scotch, Scotland, history, ghost stories, and men in kilts, you will love this book.

> I have a giveaway with some amazing bloggers scheduled for 12:00 p.m. EST today! Be sure to follow along on Instagram for the details.

And I think that’s enough for this week! Thanks for reading and following along.

Slainte,

Shannon

SOLTY FRIDAY’S 11.13

Published on November 13, 2020November 12, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

What a wild week/two. I think we are all still recovering from the events of the past two weeks. This week’s Solty Friday’s is full of new products launches and holiday joy. Two things we all could use a little more of these days.

> S.Lynch Knitwear is launching literally the CUTEST holiday bows and headbands for little girls today at 9AM EST. Head over to their Instagram to check out the new products.

> Little Lavender Lobster created a beautiful line of watercolor Christmas cards that launch today at 9AM EST!

> Be sure to check my IG on Monday. I have an extra fun giveaway for all of my followers!

> Many are starting to decorate for Christmas, myself included. I almost always do a blue and white theme. Check out my blog post from last year that talks all about my Christmas decor!

> Line and Cleat is offering special discounts on holiday pre-orders through today! Head over to their website to see their beautifully preppy accessories.

> New TV Shows: We are very much intrigued by The Undoing on HBO and I am very into Normal People on Hulu. Both are very distracting, so get cozy and settle in.

> Last but not least, here is my friendly PSA to please wear masks and social distance while you are out and about. Even if you don’t like it, others are very uncomfortable with you not wearing it or might be immunocompromised. So please be respectful of others and wear your damn mask.

On the blog recently

> Favorite Things Gift Guide with Erie and Anchor

> HOME: Chaise Lounge Review

> STYLE: Preppy Style on a Budget

Slainte,

Shannon

SOLTY FRIDAY’S 11.06

Published on November 6, 2020November 6, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

After a week of uncertainty, below are some things that will (hopefully!) bring you joy!

> I updated the look of my blog just slightly! I changed my fonts to reflect a more classic and timeless aesthetic. Be sure to check it out if you haven’t in awhile!

> My first gift guide of the season will go live on Monday and it’s a coastal Ohio favorite!

> This online boutique has the CUTEST preppy and classic accessories for everyday living.

> Cailini Coastal launched their Christmas collection and it’s blue and white heaven!

> My friend Jen launched her Christmas collection and it’s the loveliest coastal Christmas you will find this year!

> Shop LaRoque is having an amazing sale (70-90% off!!!) and I scooped up this pink top. I also loved this striped top and striped dress.

> Christine Rennie is an artist I love to follow on Instagram. Her artwork is bold, bright, and absolutely beautiful. Stay tuned for a fun collaboration coming up with her on November 16!

> Jaye’s Studio just launched the most gorgeous palm print collection and I’m in love. You can use code SHANNON15 for 15% off your order!

On the Blog This Week:

> A fun style collab with Katie from Sunshine Style Blog. We are chatting all about shopping preppy on a budget. Read more here.

> Sharing my review of our new Birch Lane Chaise Lounge. Read more here.

That’s it for this week! Stay kind peeps.

Slainte,

Shannon

SOLTY FRIDAY’S 10.30

Published on October 30, 2020October 29, 2020 by ShannonLeave a comment

Happy Friday! I didn’t have time to pull together a blog post this week, but I do have this week’s edition of Solty Friday’s!

> My friend Stephanie from Linen and Littles shared three things she has learned in three years of motherhood on her blog this week and it’s a great read for any new mom or mom with toddlers.

> As the weather begins to get more gray and cold, I’m looking for more creative ways to keep L engaged. My friend Sam is a Pediatric SLP and she always shares fun activities for toddlers. This week we did a pumpkin activity and made a squish bag! L loved getting a little messy while also learning a few new words and textures.

> Our new chaise lounge finally arrived this week!!! I LOVE it! Now I’m just trying to figure out how to style the family room. I will share a blog post with a full review soon.

> I have a fun style collaboration with my friend Katie from Sunshine Style Blog coming to you on Monday!! Katie is a ray of sunshine and I’m really excited to be partnering with her on a style post.

> We’ve been watching The Right Stuff on Disney+ and it’s so good. If you like NASA, space exploration, and the 1950s/1960s, you will enjoy this show.

> If you saw my Instagram stories this week, you will have seen me chatting about The Surcee Shoppe. The Surcee Shoppe is the cutest online gift giving boutique full of preppy accessories, stationary, home decor, and pet accessories. The Surcee Shoppe makes gift giving simple by including an enclosure card, gift wrap and shipping with each surcee. Head to their website to learn more!

> If you are a coffee drinker and someone who loves cute branding, you will love Preppy Coffee! This brand new company offers the cutest, preppiest patterns for your coffee. Head to their website to select your preppy print, your coffee roast, and click ship! It’s that easy.

> If you haven’t checked out the new fall and holiday inspired products from Jaye’s Studio, make sure you do so! And remember you can take 15% off your order by using the code SHANNON15!

And with that, I hope you all have a lovely weekend and a Happy Halloween!

Slainte,

Shannon