Most Asked Personal Questions

Striped Tank (also here, under $100)// White Jeans (my favorite pair ever)

Basket Bag (on sale under $50)// Sunglasses

Lace Up Sandals  c/o

So I know a lot of you love the more personal posts. I totally get that and I love to share and try to share as much as I am comfortable with. 

But, at the end of the day, this is a public website and once it goes out onto the internet, I am fully aware I can never take anything back once I hit 'publish'. I also know Summer Wind is available for my parents, family, friends, coworkers, ex boyfriends, old bosses, and anyone else who wants to stop by. I love that, but always keeping that in the back of my mind keeps me in check on what type of information I share.

You are all SO respectful of this and I can't thank you enough. I've said this time and time again, but all of you that stop by are truly class acts. You all give me such quality, eloquent feedback, you send me the kindest e-mails, have excellent taste and always recommend such quality products. I can never be thankful enough for the community that is present here! You are all so wonderful and I feel so lucky to be surrounded by all of you- a smart, wonderful bunch, that's for sure! 

I've touched on this topic before in several blog posts, but haven't touched on it recently, so I thought it was about time for a post. The internet is so public and sharing parts of my life for all to see is fun, but I also like to keep parts of my life off of the internet. Whether it's because I respect others around me and their right to privacy or it's because I want relationships and events to be special and savored by me in real life and real time. And most of all, I keep certain things off the internet for my own personal safety. Having a little bit of privacy helps to keep my sanity.

I always receive a lot of questions in regard to more personal topics. Some of them are great and turn out to be great posting topics! But, I'm also asked a lot of questions that I do not feel comfortable sharing on the internet. 

So, I am going to address some of the questions today as I don't think I can write a full blog post on each topic (it would bore you all), but I'll give you a bit of an answer on some of these topics. I've grouped them together and kind of paraphrased the ask so I can cover more questions in one answer (if that makes sense). 

Love Life/Dating

This is my number one most asked question. All. The. Time. I don't think this is an inappropriate question at all, and I totally get the curiosity here. You can read all about my mentality, here, which still to this day (it was published 3 years ago) covers all my feelings about this. I will say that although I don't post about specifics, I do try to incorporate little things here and there like date night outfits, Valentine's Day date ideas, I'll post dinners/what I'm doing for dates on snapchat/insta stories, etc. I try to include it as much as possible within my comfort zone. But it's just something that I don't want to blast on the internet. My 2017 addition to my post from 2014 is: if you know me personally, then you know, and with this topic, that's what is most important to me! 

How do you deal with all of the negativity online?

I truly ignore it. If it is constructive criticism, I'm more than open to learning from it. But if it is just down right mean-spirited and hurtful, I completely and entirely ignore it. I'm not everyone's cup of tea, and I'm more than ok with that! I'm not forcing anyone to be here and I respect that everyone has different tastes and opinions. I am who I am and I'm not here to try and please everyone. Keeping the negativity out of my life helps me to live a life full of happiness. If you are ever faced with negativity in any facet of your life, I really urge you to rid yourself of it if at all possible, because I promise you, you'll live a happier and more optimistic life! 

How do you always seem so happy?

I am happy. I love this quote: although every day is not a good day, there is some good in every day. My life isn't perfect. I have bad days just like every other person. But my biggest efforts are to focus on the good in life and focus on the positivity. I try to be positive towards those around me and encourage happiness. And I try to surround myself with people whom I love and who bring happiness to my life. I love to find the silver lining in even the toughest of situations. And I also try to practice gratitude every single day (which sounds cheesy, I know, but I promise you, it works!!). 

Finances: Do you budget, save, plan for retirement?

This is one of those 'iffy' topics but I get asked about it all the time. It's a bit of a taboo topic, in general, in society, but I've also never wanted to post about it because I am not an expert and don't want to give unprofessional advice. Also, every single person's financial circumstances are different and I don't want anything I would say to be misconstrued as insensitive or unaware or possibly offend anyone. I will say that personally, saving is one of my top priorities. I am a big saver in all aspects and am trying to work for a nice life for myself once I retire. My biggest tip was taught to me by my parents: live below your means. 

Why Did You Choose to Live At Home?

This is not for everyone and I am fully aware that not everyone has this luxury or ability. I lived at home for several years after college. Like I said, a solid savings is very important to me and one of my top priorities. By living at home and not having to pay rent, I was able to save a nest egg without sacrificing the lifestyle that I am used to. This sounds simple, but that meant I made the decision to a) live at home with my parents which wasn't without its cons (but seriously, I'm very lucky because they're amazing), 2) live where I grew up (quite literally in my childhood bedroom) and not move to a new city. I don't regret it for one second. I think it was one of the best decisions I have ever made and am so thankful to my parents for providing me with the luxury to do so. I'll also say that I received a lot of 'judgment' from peers and even here on Summer Wind. I can kind of see why- but I also knew I was doing something that was right and important for me and at the end of the day, that is all that matters. When I was in middle school, I learned that sometimes making an 'uncool' or unpopular choice will benefit you in the long run. I was given the opportunity to take honors math, but all my friends were in regular math. My parents urged me to choose the 'unpopular' choice and do I have regrets about it? Nope. With living at home, it was a very 'uncool' choice, but again, no regrets! 

Instagram vs. Real Life

Instagram is 110% my highlight reel. I don't have any personal social media except for Facebook, which nowadays, I barely ever even post. If you want more 'real life' unfiltered, I share some of that on Snapchat and Insta Stories, although more so Snapchat (although I've been neglecting that for Instastories lately). I feel like with Snapchat it feels more personal and less 'pretty' so I'm able to share more real moments with you all. I also work hard to share some real life in every Thursday's Lately posts. But to be honest, my everyday is a lot like anyone else's everyday. I'm not doing exciting things all day everyday (mostly sitting at a computer) and don't want to flood your feeds with boring/mundane day to day chatter and ultimately annoy you.

I'm not sure if you all have noticed, too, but I've really made an effort to include iPhone photos/totally non-staged images in blog posts and instagrams. They're less professional which in turn, I feel like they're a lot more personal and more like what I am actually seeing out of my own eyes. I love high quality photos, don't get me wrong, and brands want to see those, so I try to keep a nice balance, but I really do make a conscious effort to include less professional imagery and more 'hey I just shot this on my iPhone'. 

Another thing on this topic that I really want to mention: you can judge someone's instagram or blog all you want and think you know someone, but you don't. It amazes me to read some super popular instagrammer's comments that they receive and see such hurtful and judgmental commentary. I am not perfect, and of course, I judge, but you definitely don't know someone that you've never even met. It's something to always keep in mind when you are looking at social media. Even with personal Facebook profiles... you can see a perfectly happy person on social media and in reality, they could be dealing with something very serious. Don't compare yourself to others, but also don't judge other people too harshly or read too much into a social media post. That's been a really big/great lesson for me in the 8+ years I've been blogging!

Are you going to get a dog?
I'm actually surprised by how many people ask me this- It's usually when I share Mac on Instastories/Snapchat! Oh gosh do I want one!!! I miss not seeing Mac everyday so so much. But, I love seeing him every time I go home! My building allows pets, but at this stage in my life I think I am going to hold off. First of all, I travel a lot. Second of all, there's nowhere immediately outside of my building to take a dog to the bathroom.. So I don't feel safe going on a walk outside in the middle of the night by myself. Third of all, my carpet, walls, bedding, etc. are all white aka not dog-friendly. I know once I get a dog (which will happen sooner than later), I'll have to get over that or choose some new bedding/fabrics, but for now, the dog would just ruin everything and make my small apartment a disaster. Third of all, I want a big dog (50+ pounds maybe)  and I think it would be selfish for him/her to have to live in this small of an apartment!

What do you do to stay fit?
I get asked this a ton- especially after I post several unhealthy food pics in a row on instastories/snapchat. I'm flattered that anyone thinks I'm fit- I am not a fitness buff at all, I don't workout everyday, I don't do fad diets, I don't limit myself, I'm not a health nut. I personally find that everything in moderation works best for me. For example, if I indulged a little too much over the weekend, I kick my butt into gear during the week eating healthy, fresh foods, make sure I am getting plenty of steps in during the day, etc. I'm sorry to disappoint, but I don't have any secret fit tips- but if you do, let me know ;) 

Why do you do sponsored posts?

I get e-mails from PR companies and brands daily. I spend more time fielding emails/responding and managing my inbox than I do anything else. I'm grateful for so many opportunities and fun collaborations but I ultimately say no to most, which is something I think a lot of people don't realize. I only ever accept brands that I use, believe in, and like. So although 'sponsored' is like a dirty word to readers of blogs and I sometimes get hateful comments because I do sponsored posts, it's a great opportunity for me to expand my portfolio, share brands and products I stand behind/truly love, and to get paid. I also always disclose that it is a sponsored post, so if you are ever in question, unless it clearly states that it is a sponsored post, then it is organic. 

What is your biggest fear?

Only a few of you have asked this, but I thought I would share this. To a lot of you, this is going to sound really dumb. But my biggest fear in the world are needles. In general, sharp objects scare me, but it's not something that disrupts my life (I'm totally fine handling knives in the kitchen, etc.). But with needles, it's a very, very legitimate fear (in my mind). It's an irrational fear, I know, but I've dealt with it since I can remember. Ironically enough, I've gotten more stitches in life than (probably) a lot of people. It's something I continuously have to work on.

Why did you choose to live downtown?

This is not super personal, but I get asked this a lot from out of town readers and those who are thinking about moving to Pittsburgh. If you asked me if I would live downtown 5 years ago, I would have said 'ew, no way, you couldn't even pay me to live downtown'. Downtown Pittsburgh used to be populated from 9-5 during weekdays and emptied out after work/on weekends. There weren't many restaurants or things to do. Just as I graduated college, Pittsburgh's downtown area has done a complete 180. Major news outlets have done many articles on this Renaissance. Downtown is bustling at all hours of the day and night (on any day). It's actually crowded most of the time (which I admit, is a bit annoying). It's hard to get into restaurants on a random Wednesday night. There are even restaurants that require reservations months in advance. I feel safe walking everywhere and can walk to anywhere (like Heinz Field, PNC Park, Market Square, The Strip District, etc.). It's a quick $7ish Uber ride to pretty much anywhere else that I frequent (ie. Shadyside). I'm 10 minutes away from my parents and 3 of my best friends live in my building. There is so much going on downtown now, it often gets overwhelming. When I was deciding where to live, I was between Shadyside and downtown. I definitely made the right decision for me and highly recommend it to anyone else moving to Pittsburgh!

Do you have any bad habits?
I think my biggest bad habit is that I bite/pick at my nails. I've always had this problem ever since I can remember. I think it's a nervous/anxious tick that I have. I really dislike that I do it- it's so unattractive! The only thing that really helps is that I'm a lot less likely to pick if my nails are manicured. Because of that, I get a gel manicure every two weeks. My favorite polish colors are: love is in the bare, big apple red, let's be friends, and I've got the blues for red (all by OPI).

Philadelphia Recap

I really should name this post the 'tour de cheesesteak', but we did a few other things than just eat... I think... We started off the road trip with Chik Fil A (no brainer) and Starbucks and hit the road. We made it within 5 hours which was nice! 

Polo Shirt// Jean Shorts (old, similar, similar)

Then we checked in to the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia. You can read my full review of the hotel, here. I really enjoyed just relaxing with some champagne and the gorgeous room and stunning views. 

Navy Blue Swing Dress (so soft and comfortable)

Then, we hit the pavement to check out Philadelphia. We didn't have much of a plan, rather just wander around the city taking in the sights. This navy blue swing dress was SO comfortable in the heat and for walking. We walked over 10,000 steps in just a few hours so I was glad to look cute but still comfortable. 

We ended up at Jim's Cheesesteaks. A Philadelphia resident had recommended it so we thought it would be amazing. We stood in the long line and finally got our hands on the prize. We were a little bit underwhelmed, to be honest. But I should preface this with the fact that I'm not the biggest cheesesteak fan. Aren't the photos from our walk, gorgeous, though? Philadelphia is such a lovely city!!

Tank (J.Crew, old)// Navy Pleated Leather Skirt 

Vara Bow Shoes// Louis Vuitton Speedy 30

Ray-Ban Clubmaster Sunglasses

Coin Necklace// Tank Watch

The next morning, we woke up and lounged around sipping coffee and then headed to Aqimero for brunch. 

Where we enjoyed bellinis, lobster avocado toast, and more. We then did some more exploring/walking around.. it was SO hot that day, but we were so glad to have really fit in a lot of exploration! We wanted to see the famous 'Love Park' but unfortunately, it was under construction.

Then, I met up with my BFF from high school, Eugenia, and her boyfriend Michael at Independence Beer Garden. Michael is from Philadelphia so he knew that this would be a fun spot to take us. And, he was not wrong, that's for sure. Independence Beer Garden is SO cute. There are picnic tables everywhere, table games like Jenga, great snacks, and a good selection of beer, cocktails, etc. We had so much fun just catching up and I was so glad I got to see her!

Then, we headed to Wells Fargo Center to see the Big 3. If you are not familiar (I wasn't), it's a traveling basketball tournament where it's half of a basketball court and the teams are 3 vs. 3. The players are all retired NBA players and are also coached by retired NBA players, too. The biggest 'deal' was Allen Iverson since he played for the Sixers. I have never been to a professional basketball game before, so I've always wanted to go. While this was a little different (Fat Joe performed, hahah), it was still a lot of fun! 

Post-game, we wanted to try another cheesesteak, so we headed to Steve's which is right near the Ritz-Carlton. In my opinion, this cheesesteak was a lot better than Jim's... it had more cheese and the steak was juicier. 

The next morning, we woke up and headed to La Colombe. Best. Coffee. Ever. I got a cappuccino and their chocolate chip cookie (which is like crack). We packed up and called down for the car and were set to head back to Pittsburgh. 

But not before we stopped at Geno's and Pat's for more cheesesteaks. Geno's was SO good and was my favorite of all of them. I actually had had both Geno's and Pat's before when I was younger but couldn't remember my opinion so it was nice to go back. Geno's was so juicy and cheesy and flavorful!

As we hit the road, we passed the exit sign for the King of Prussia mall... and well, I just couldn't pass it up. We don't have a Neimans in Pittsburgh so it's a real treat when I can stop into one. Chanel shoes galore, I was in HEAVEN! Luckily for my wallet, I practiced strict self control. 

We also had Shake Shack- another thing we don't have in Pittsburgh that I just die for. It's SO good. I would think after this trip I'd be about 10 pounds heavier because of all the unhealthy food I indulged in, but we walked SO much, I think it all balanced out-- well, hopefully! All in all, I can't wait to make another trip back to Philadelphia! It was so much fun!

What I Wore in Philly:

Lately 7/27/2017

Pajamas (pants version)

The weirdest feeling happens every single year when I'm at the lake: I get the feeling I'm going back to school. I then have to remind myself that I'm 27 and I'm not going back to school (which is kind of sad because I loved school!!). But usually, for me, our trip to the lake kind of closes out summer (even though there is a full month left until school starts again for most).

The feeling is exciting and nostalgic. I am not a fan of summer clothes, so I get really excited for layers and sweaters and not having to sweat while just walking to dinner. I also get excited for the return of some of my favorite shows like This Is Us and being able to cozy up under blankets at night. I also prefer my coffee hot, so being able to enjoy hot coffee outdoors, is also a simple fall luxury.

Anyway, this week has been lots of fun just lounging around and spending time with family. I am SO glad to have a break!

Wearing: This week has been a whole lot of bathing suits and comfy clothes. Pretty much my ideal wardrobe, ha! The photo above shows the SUPER comfortable pajama set that is available in the Nordstrom Sale right now. They are so soft it's amazing. Typically, I size up in pajamas, but these fit true to size (I'm wearing a size small). They're also available in a long sleeve/pants version, too!

Pittsburghing: Seriously, Dave and Andy's is the best ice cream in Pittsburgh. I go between that and Mercurio's. Which ice cream spot is your favorite in Pittsburgh?

Striped Dress (under $100)

Drinking: I went to Bonefish Grill for the first time a few weeks ago and it was SO good. I'm definitely more into trying local restaurants, but my parents really like Bonefish, so I went along. Their Bang Bang shrimp is amazing and I got a watermelon martini that might have been the best cocktail I've ever had. It was so light and fresh and not sugary sweet like it may look. I've been scouring the internet to find a good recipe, but if you have one, I'd love to know! 

Reading: Did you guys see this article about Disney making a version of The Nutcracker?! I am SO excited!

Sale-ing: Andddddd the Nordstrom Sale continues (it doesn't end until 8/6)! A lot is sold out, but I've noticed certain items have been restocked periodically, so keep an eye out! Check out my try-on post here where I talk about fit and quality! 

Watching: I'm in show limbo right now. I finished How to Get Away With Murder and now need to wait for season 4 to go live. I'm also all caught up on Real Housewives of NYC (my guilty pleasure) and Southern Charm just ended :(. I would love any recommendations you have! 

Listening: Last chance to check out July's playlist before I start on August's! It ended up being a really great list with a lot of variation! I feel like I haven't heard any songs that I am obsessed with in quite some time, though, so hopefully I'll come across some in the near future!

Loving: Well, it's official. Mark D. Sikes can do no wrong. But we knew that already, didn't we?! The launch of his resort 2018 collection is swoon-worthy. The pieces are pricey, but boy are they gorgeous! 

Loving II: So this is kind of random, but I thought I'd share because I'm thinking other people might be the same way. I've always used a 'regular' toothbrush because I'm not a fan of the ones that vibrate. I tried to get into it, but I just don't like it. I brush my teeth way too vigorously, so I was browsing in Target a few weeks ago and came across this super soft toothbrush. It's different from a baby tooth brush in that it's more 'regular sized' and the bristles are super dense. It's very soft so you can be vigorous without worrying about ruining the enamel and hurting your gums. It's definitely a game changer for me!

Wanting: Have you guys heard about Anthropologie's newest collaboration with the skincare line, 100% Pure? The exclusive line is being called Puristry and is certified organic by USDA. I'm really interested to see what people are saying about the line as they try it and am interested to try it myself. I love love trying new products!

Decorating: Have you all heard of the furniture company, Interior Define? I just came across the company and they make gorgeous pieces in custom fabric for a very reasonable price. Has anyone ordered from them before?!

Quoting: 'Surround yourself with people who push you to be your best self.'

My Everyday Jewelry

I'm often asked about the jewelry I wear everyday. I wrote a post about this around 2.5 years ago, so I thought I'd do a little update. I love jewelry. It's one of my favorite ways to accessorize and I think it is a way to really show off your personality and tastes. I also think jewelry makes the best gift because it's very special and will last a lifetime. 

There are a few pieces that I wear almost daily and while some are from a local jeweler here in Pittsburgh- there are a ton of great options online that are very similar, if not identical. I'm sourcing all of the pieces so you're able to pick a piece for yourself or for a loved on. 

You'll notice that most of my jewelry is super simple and classic. I think if you are going to wear a piece every single day, it needs to be simple so it doesn't take away from what you are wearing or get in the way of any activities you may be doing. I also think that if you are going to wear a piece every single day that it should be made of quality materials so it can hold up to all of the wear and tear. 

What I wear every single day:

• Cartier Love Ring 
• Monogrammed Gold Signet Ring
• Bezel set gold diamond solitaire necklace 
• 1 ct. diamond studs 

What I wear often:

• Pearl studs
• Cartier Tank Watch
• David Yurman Cable Bracelet
• Hermes Clic Clac Bracelet
• Sapphire and diamond band ring 

So now you know what I wear every day, I figured I would try and find similar items that are available online. 

Cartier Love Ring

This was given to me one year for Christmas from my parents. I love that my name is engraved on the inside. I am dying for the matching bracelet. One day. I think a simple gold band ring is a really understated way to accessorize. It gives off a luxe vibe, but is very wearable.

Monogrammed Gold Signet Ring 
full blog post here

I got my signet ring about two years ago. My dad has one and wears it every single day. His parents got it for him while he was in grade school and I have always admired his. I wanted one for my left-hand pinky finger and it took me a while to find a good one. Now, I think there are a ton of options online! 

Bezel Set Solitaire Necklace

This necklace is very special to me. My grandparents gave me a beautiful diamond ring on year for my birthday. I wasn't getting enough wear out of it, so I had it turned into a necklace and I never take it off. Story time: A few years ago, I was at one of my best friend's houses and we were getting ready for a New Year's Eve Celebration. We stopped at her husband's parent's house before we went the party when I realized that the diamond was missing from my necklace. I was freaking out but also trying to stay calm because it's just a material item and I didn't want to upset everyone's night. The next morning, we got back to her house and I walk into the kitchen. On the floor, I see something sparkle out of the corner of my eye. It was the diamond!!!!! Isn't that crazy?! I had it reset in a larger gold setting so that it would be much safer!

Stud Earrings

I switch between a pair of diamonds and pearl studs most often, but I think I prefer the diamonds more. My first pair of diamond studs were given to me by my dad. It's truly a moment I will never forget. We were at the Greenbrier right before I was about to start 9th grade and we were having dinner in their formal dining room. They brought out three silver dome trays and set them down at each of our places (my mom, Callie, and me). When they removed the domes, there sat a jewelry box. We opened them and I got diamond earrings... my birthstone (lucky me, haha!!). Callie and I were so naive that we thought the restaurant was so fancy that they were giving us these gifts. It took us a little while to realize my dad had coordinated it, hahah!! Anyway, I find pearl or diamond studs to be classic and elegant. I like to err on the smaller size with these, so they don't take away from anything else. 

Cartier Tank Watch 

I saved up big time for this purchase. I worked very hard for years to be able to save away and buy exactly what I wanted. This is absolutely my go-to watch. I wear it daily in the fall/winter/spring, but neglect to wear it in the summer because it's too hot and I rarely wear black during the summer months. This is such a classic watch and I will have it for my lifetime.

Diamond and Sapphire Ring

This is my most recent piece of jewelry. I have a thing for rings. I always want a new ring and am so drawn to them. I LOVE sapphires. Besides diamonds and pearls, sapphires are my favorite. I really wanted an understated band-style ring that had a mix of diamonds and sapphires and this was just PERFECT. After looking online. I realized there are a ton of options at all different price points. 

My Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia

Dress (runs big, size down)

Two weekends ago, I packed my bags and headed to the City of Brotherly Love. I've been to Philadelphia many times before, so I've done a lot of the classic tourist stuff, but the entire city is steeped in so much history, it's always fun to even just walk around and take in all of the sights.

The drive from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia is about 5 hours. It's not too bad because you literally just drive straight across the state on the turnpike (you don't even need a map, it's that simple).

We checked into the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia in the later afternoon and as we were checking in, we were greeted with water and champagne. That's my kind of welcome, that's for sure! The Ritz-Carlton is centrally located right across from City Hall... we never once used our car because most of the things we were doing were within walking distance of the Ritz-Carlton! And it's right next door to La Colombe- which is by far my favorite coffee in the entire world!

When you first walk through the doors, the 'lobby' (which isn't a grand enough word) is a giant rotunda that really welcomes you inside. Inside it has the lobby bar area, the check-in desk and Richard Sondoval's restaurant, Aqimero. The building was built in the very early 1900's and is a reproduction of the Pantheon in Rome. It used to be a bank until it was converted to the Ritz-Carlton. To say that the space is stunning is an understatement. It is luxe and gorgeous and there is so much light flooding the space during the daytime. 

There is a tower attached to the Rotunda which has 30 floors. There are a total of 301 rooms and suites. We were on the 29th floor in the most beautiful suite overlooking Philadelphia's City Hall.

Pajamas

Our suite was so gorgeous, I wanted to move in and never leave. There were TWO marble bathrooms on each end of the suite, two large tubs with sweeping city views (seriously look at our view in the photo with the champagne flute!!), a large living room, master bedroom with a walk-in closet (that also had insane views). And that bed? Quite easily the most comfortable bed I have ever slept on. I figured out you can buy the bedding and the robes and I'm SO tempted to get both. Amazing.

Back to the bathrooms... I'm very judge-y when it comes to hotel bathrooms. I think one of life's simple pleasures while traveling is having ample counter/drawer space. The bathrooms had SO much counter space and even drawers to store your toiletries. 

The Ritz-Carlton went under a $25 million renovation last year and I was so excited to be able to see all of the gorgeous touches added. The rooms are so luxe as are the hallways, and public spaces. 

Not to mention, everyone was SO friendly and helpful. And I mean that not only about the staff of the Ritz, but also the people we came across throughout Philadelphia. We looked lost when trying to find a restaurant, and someone came up and so nicely offered to help us find our way.

We actually loved the suite so much, after doing a ton of walking the first day we got there, we decided to order-in room service. The food was excellent and it was so nice to be able to rest our feet and live the #robelife.  If I could move in and live there, I would in a heartbeat!

I'll do a full Philly recap as to what we did, but I'm focusing on our stay first! One morning, we had brunch at Aqimero, which is a Latin-inspired restaurant by Richard Sandoval that opened up last summer. Oh my goodness was it incredible! The menu had all sorts of 'different' brunch items that really stepped things up from what you'd typically see on a brunch menu. We couldn't decide because there were so many amazing options so we ordered three things to split. We got the Manhattan Bagel, the Lobster Avocado Toast, and the Chicken and Waffles. The avocado toast was our favorite and is one of the most incredible things I've ever eaten. Everything was delicious as well and look at that presentation! 

A big thank you to the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia for hosting me! I had the best time and could not recommend the Ritz more! Even if you live in the area, stopping in just to see the space and have a cocktail or brunch/lunch/dinner would be such a fun experience.