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Extra! Extra! Read All About It! (9/10/19)

'Knowledge comes, but wisdom lingers.' - Alfred Lord Tennyson

The Chicken Or The Egg, What Came First? A Question That Many Have Debated For Ages. 

Before social media, OOH advertising (out-of-home) was key. Print ads were partnered with branded billboards. Guerilla marketing with stickers all over the streets or posters throughout the subways were key in making a brand successful. Slowly but surely social media crept in. Small budgets began to go towards influencers, known as bloggers originally. This followed with larger budgets going to influencers on social media platforms, Instagram in particular now can require as much as 25K per post (yes, that's ONE Instagram post) for certain talents, and that is not even the extreme budget side.  Yes, these days brands are utilizing digital marketing like no other, from Instagram for the millennial audience to TikTok for the Gen Z audience and so on. This is not news, of course. However, there is a change in the wind. There is now a need for social media to partner with OOH advertising. One cannot stand without the other (at least not as successfully thanks to the algorithms). Two recent strong examples are Jaja and Fanta (and previously Bumble, highlighted in a previous post HERE). 

Jaja first utilized Instagram to gain consumer insight. The brand photoshopped a Jaja tequila truck on an Instagram post and only once the response they received numerous comments and emails asking about, did they create a real-life truck decorated to their brand theme. It’s like happy hour on wheels, who would not love it?! (source)

Fanta, on the other hand, created billboards and posters that included shareable AI filters and sticker packs when connected with Snpachat. They utilized the streets, social media and television to build brand awareness as the new message of the brand focuses on individualism (source).

Trolling On Another Level

If you can't take a joke, get out of the kitchen. Or in this case, get out of McDonalds and head to Burger King. Once again the fast-food giant has one-upped their rival. This time, the king is going after Ronald McDonald under the disguise of the movie "It Chapter Two." 

The new campaign, #EscapeTheClown, geo-targets customers with messages on Facebook and Instagram when they are inside a McDonalds (currently in Germany only) to use their phone to scan an article in the McDonald's movie magazine, which will then allow a popup button of "Escape the Clown" to appear that when clicked will show ballons with a coupon for a one-cent Whopper. Not only does this encouragement give a discount for the BK empire, but it also gives directions to the nearest location with a countdown as this is a limited time only offer for each customer. (source)

FOMO

In the early days of social media, giveaways were everything. Promoting a giveaway on any social platform guaranteed your account to grow some major followers. These days, such promotions are seen unauthentic and do very little for the brand. The likes are gained, some email signups are completed, but very little followers remain past the giveaway timeline. 

Instead, it's all about the limited edition, exclusivity aspect. Supreme build an entire company around limited edition this and that, from metro cards to bricks to sometimes actual clothes. Sneaker brands are even more known for having limited-edition kicks for which people line up around multiple blocks if not even overnight. I personally remember someone being stabbed in SOHO in NYC because they tried to cut the line for the latest sneaker launch. 

Now the food market is jumping on the bandwagon. From Popeyes to Chick-Fil-A to Shake Shack to Dos Toros and so on. In fact, the limited edition drop of the Popeyes chicken sandwich was so hyped up that it even sold for hundreds of dollars on eBay. Celebrities were tweeting and posting on all social media for FREE in order to have just one reserved for their taste buds, including Cardie B and even Gayle King (that's one degree away from Oprah approving your brand name; one can only dream of getting so lucky).(source)

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!

Experiential and "Instagramable" moments are everything these days. From restaurants with "so so" food but perfectly positioned decor for photos (I won't name names) to stores with the most colorful and crazy product stations for (drum roll, please) Instagram. One brand that has mastered the market with both is Lush. Not only is the entire store full of areas with bright colorful products, all positioned as the perfect backdrops for Instagram, but there are stations to play with the product. 

Inside the open store space, there are several stations to play with the product, enjoy the sents and be helped by the brand staff to find the right product for whatever you need, including relaxation or smoother skin. Now there are also closed off spa areas where you can enjoy customized treatments of the products from the store. 

This is brilliant and exactly where brands need to go with their physical locations. If someone comes in for their social media, they will promote your brand for free. AND if someone comes in for one item, they may stay around for hours, which could greatly increase the value of their product purchase. (source)

Nostalgia

Emotions control us, whether we want to admit it or not. More specifically emotions from memory. Certain ads, cartoons, food items, or songs can trigger a childhood happy memory, or so Dum Dum is hoping with their new ads utilizing Shel Silverstein-style sketches with the candy. Not only is there sweet and funny storytelling within the ads for the current generations, but they also have a child memory poke for the grownups that may want to buy the candy for their kids or even grandkids, especially with Halloween around the corner. (source)

'What's In A Name? That Which We Call A Rose By Any Other Name Would Smell As Sweet' 

The most recent advertising for Doritos does not actually include its name or logo. This is truly billiant because as the traingle continues to be connected with Doritos on social media, OOH advertising, print and television, there will be no one that doesn’t subconciously think of the chip whenever seeing a simple shape out in the world. 

The concept is also a great play on the Milineial and Gen Z audience, who do not want to be labled by society. (source)

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Extra! Extra! Read All About It! (8/6/19)

'Any fool can know. The point is to understand.' - Albert Einstein

New Tools Update

AdInboxMe by PixelMe 

Research is everything! Whether your brand is at the top of its game or not, there is a competitor for every product and service out there. It is not only important to understand who your brand's target audience is and the best way to reach that demographic, but it an absolute necessity to understand what your competitors are doing to promote their products. 

Though traditional advertising and marketing (especially when it's for TV and print media) take time to put together, digital ads can be pushed out within minutes of creation. Knowing the direction of the competition is key to making sure you are either first in a specific concept of promotion or able to use humor to step on the competition is very important when focusing on the immediate gratification of social media advertising. Take the example of Burger King "trolling" every other fast food restaurant digitally; for example their "Not Big Mac Menu." 

AdInboxMe allows you to be notified whenever your competitor is promoting themselves. It’s the perfect spy (I mean researcher).

Industry News

Digital Spend Is Going UP UP UP For Travel & Financial Sectors 

As millennials spend more and more on "Instagramable" moments versus physical products, the travel industry is increasing their digital spend. In fact, it is predicted that travel companies will spend about 13 BILLION dollars on digital media in 2020. In fact, Delta is jumping on the bandwagon with a new promotion geared towards the NYC millennial. Everyone knows the best part of a vacation is getting away from it all; the worst part of a vacation is the time it takes to travel there and back (and sometimes the jetlag). Delta is creating digital ads feating real people living in New Yorker in cramped spaces with the tag line of, "New York isn't always comfortable. Flying out of it is." 

Whether you are on Instagram or not (yeah right), everyone is equipped with a smartphone. This allows everyone, especially the millennial generation, to do everything through their mobile devices, including banking. With less and less need for cash, it is only important to check your bank account and pay bills, which is easiest on the go (aka via apps like Venmo, PayPal, Bunq, N26 and more).

It is estimated that next year, the finance world will spend about 18.3 BILLION dollars on digital ads.  

Spotify Advertising

Using social media for ads is a great way to reach a targeted audience based on the demographics of the consumers you feel are best for your product. Most apps allow you to reach a set age, location, gender and sometimes a bit more. Spotify is creating an even smarter targeting capability, which includes ads for people at specific moments. This is brilliant for specific niche brands. If you are a beauty brand, then what better time to advertising to someone than when they are getting ready in the morning. I might be using one mascara today, but your ad will make me switch to Teeez tomorrow. If you are an athletic gear brand, what better time to push your latest sale of sports bras than while I am sweating through mine at the gym. 

Made By Facebook

Facebook wants credit for all of its apps, so Instagram will not be "Instagram" but instead "Instagram from Facebook." Same for Whatsapp.

Not to be rude or harsh, but only those living under a rock don't realize that Instagram and Whatsapp are owned by Facebook. If you didn't know before this past year, you have a pass (sorta...maybe...kinda). However, over the last year, it has been publicized only a monthly if not weekly basis in the press. To change the name and connect all the apps as one (slowly, of course), doesn't give credit to Facebook for the brilliant apps it owns, but simply allows for more control over the collected data it gains on an hourly basis.

Smart & Creative Marketing

Guerilla Marketing...Old School Style

Back in the olden days, guerilla marketing was posting thousands of stickers around a city with your brand's logo or chalk writing all over the streets and maybe even the walls of a city. Today, guerilla marketing is utilizing influencers and paid social media to spread your company message and promote your product/service. However, the various algorithms of social media and the saturation of "influencers" have proven that a brand cannot simply rely on digital marketing. Everything comes full circle, and marketing opportunities are no exception. A good AND effective promotion must incorporate all aspects of digital and TRADITIONAL marketing.

Bumble is a great example of utilizing both "physical" (OOH Marketing, aka Out Of Home) and digital marketing. On social media, they consistently post sharable content that is at times motivational, other times authentic and sometimes comical. Either way, their posts are perfect for resharing with credit to the brand, which builds on its awareness. In addition, the company creates authentic advertising in physical locations. NYC is a great space for promotions, and it is where the app is incredibly popular. That is why Bumble took real people utilizing their app, whether they used the friendship or business or dating version, and pasted profiles all around the subways, buses, telephone poles, etc.

It's all about being seen, and combining physical and digital promotions is the best way to make sure EVERYONE sees your brand. More videos of the real people HERE.

Nostalgia

Whether you are a Millennial or a Baby Boomer (or whatever the newest or oldest term is), you have certain people, products, music and locations that cause a sense of nostalgia for you. Bill Nye the Science Guy was a fun memory of my childhood, to say the least. I remember watching his show in science class in 6th grade. Starbucks did a brilliant job pulling on the childhood strings of so many by hiring Bill Nye to promote their Nitro Cold Brew. Not only are they reaching the nostalgic part of their audience but the comical side as well, both easily and undoubtedly shareable on social media.  

[vicfrid]

Extra! Extra! Read All About It! (3/15/19)

‘Knowledge is a weapon. I intend to be formidably armed.’ - Terry Goodkind

In the last few years, I signed up for several (don’t have enough fingers to count them all on) email newsletters. No, I didn’t make a New Year resolution to read more. I simply wanted to be informed on “world” news.

As someone who doesn’t make it a goal to pick up the newspaper on a daily basis and only watches BCC on the weekend (in addition to Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and the Daily Show with Trevor Noah, of course...plus my new favorite The Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj), I really liked receiving summaries and links to articles that keep me up-to-date. Some of my daily must-reads are as follows:

For politics and current events, I read theSkimm newsletter. For tech and business, I read The Hustle newsletter. For fashion, I read The Business of Fashion & Fashionista newsletter. For marketing, I the read MarketingDive newsletter.

SO, in the spirit of knowledge sharing, I have decided to share my industry insights and notable articles…starting now:

The Art Of Persuasion via Medium

Incredibly interesting when related to social media and influencer marketing. The key takeaway for me was the importance of the “human” factor, which of course builds trust. One of the main reasons influencers (originally known as bloggers and/or vloggers) became so “influential” and important to company marketing, PR, and advertising plans/budgets was the reliability factor.

More often than not, it’s the relationship we have with the messenger that influences us. In order words, it’s not about the product influencers push but the trust we have in them. True influencers have multiple engaging platforms, started growing their audience years ago within specific niche topics, and stayed true to their core messaging. That is why they outperform the actual effect of the new age of “influencers” popping up only on Instagram and gaining more likes for selfies versus the topics they claim to be “authorities” on.

Real Time Marketing via AListDaily  

Thanks to the multitude of social media channels, brands can now create marketing materials for the public within days, if not hours, to respond to and engage with real-time news.

Of course, this is both a gift and a curse. For some brands, a random celebrity endorsement is not just brand awareness but quick sales. This is especially true if the brands act fast to engage with the audience of the celebrity and therefore convert them into their own audience, which can then make that audience customers. For example, the response of Vanity Fair Napkins to John Mayer’s commercial suggestion via Instagram (aka this article), or Burger King’s take on the Big Mac menu (here), or Cars.com’s social media response to nearly all the million-dollar Super Bowl commercials (here), or HBO for the 20th anniversary of the “Sopranos” (here).

Other brands, however, find it deadly if there is not enough product or website/app capability to handle all the newly gained traffic. Negative comments can kill a business. For example Vero, a social media app, gained 500,000 users in 24 hours. Unfortunately, the app was not able to handle all of the signups.  

Instagram-able Moments via Mobile Marketer 

Over the last few years, there has been amazing success for the direct-to-consumer brands. These are brands built, marketed, sold and shipped without a traditional retailer or middleman. They were born on platforms that dominate today’s dot.com world (aka Instagram, Amazon, Facebook etc.), and therefore, they are able to grow fast and connect to their consumers directly (and even more importantly, personally aka article #1: the messenger or seller needs costumer trust to push their product). The best examples of such brands are Warby Parker, Everlane, Glossier, The Honest Company, Casper…AND, of course, Kylie Cosmetics and KKW Beauty.

More and more brands are popping up as many partner with influencers to create, design and/or curate their own collections for fashion, beauty, etc. Of course, the non-product/e-commerce brands want in on the action. AND the best way to do so is to create “Instagram-able” moments. Similar to the launch of KKW Beauty (KimK decorated rooms in her home with selfie mirrors with perfect lighting and floor to ceiling roses), hotels and restaurants a-like are working to make their décor as photogenic as possible. It is a brilliant move to encourage not only influencers (micro and macro) to visit and create free content (aka free guerrilla marketing) but regular guests with social media accounts (aka the “new” wave of influencers now being titled as nano-influencers).

Building A Socially Conscious Community via Marketing Drive

People love to rally around a cause. Whether it is women’s equality, or LGBT rights, or gun control, or global warming, people genuinely like to stand for something and be part of a movement to help make things better. For some it’s raising money, for others it’s giving money, for others it’s marching, etc. Every action towards change is a good action, big or small.  

For brands, it’s incredibly beneficial to donate to or partner with charities. By supporting a cause, the consumers of the brand feel a stronger community and are better able to rally around the brand. As Don Draper from ‘Mad Men’ said, “Advertising is based on one thing: happiness.” The big picture is that happiness is a feeling, and by associating a brand with cause, the concept of creating a feeling is done. Employees and consumers associate that feeling of kindness, happiness, community, etc. with your brand. Now you have ambassadors creating guerilla marketing through conversation and social media.

Retail Changes via Glossy

As more and more direct-to-consumer brands begin to pop up, retailers must restructure their costumer experiences. Not only is it important to be “Instagram-able” (how else do you get the millennial audience to visit and work for you, right?!) but to also allow for costumers to actually experience the capabilities of the store as a luxury experience.

It’s no longer about department stores (or any physical retailers) becoming a “one-stop” shop for their customers. It’s about creating a desire to leave the comfort of home and pjs to go shopping. Stores need to create an atmosphere and an experience for their clientele to want to spend hours within their space with friends. 

The way of some bridal stores is a great example. Not only do they encourage you to come with a group of friends and family, but they provide beverages and snacks in private areas for everyone to enjoy as they look at accessories, dresses and magazines for inspirations. Not to mention, they have the opportunity to have you fitted and to have items altered for various shoe options.     

Freedom of Speech via Business Insider

If you’re an influencer, your massive following doesn’t really matter if Instagram or Facebook cuts your reach (damn algorithms…no rhythm or reason). If you’re a brand, it doesn’t matter what social strategy you plan if again Facebook or Instagram block your ads. With so many companies and individuals relying on engagement from Facebook, which includes Instagram, WhatsApp, InstaStories, IGTV and soon a Pinterest-style capability, as their dependency on income how can we not define it as a monopoly?

Of course, there are several other channels to focus on as well as new apps popping up to recapture the purpose of sharing and “influencing” specific niche topics. Twitter is an amazing example of actually starting a conversation with your audience and showcasing personalization as well as building trust.    

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Influencer “Influence” Regulations

'What really decides consumers to buy or not to buy is the content of your advertising, not its form.' - David Ogilvy

Ads has been around for years (and years and years and years). Pretty much since the "dinosaur" days of newspapers (because once upon a time there was no such thing as Instagram, OR magazines like Vogue, OR even cable TV). Regardless of the format, everyone was always one way or another "influenced" by promotions of food, fashion, travel, etc etc etc. There were warnings of cigarettes being cancerous and other side affects from certain products and services, but otherwise there was never an "official" announcement of "this is an ad." People did not need that clarification. It was understood that a commercial was a paid ad (sometimes with famous actors and other times with no-name hopefuls) and could influence people to fly with KLM, or stay at a certain hotel, or eat a specific cereal bar because it was healthier or "fat free."

These days Netflix, Hulu and other streaming services have made commercials nearly obsolete (at least for most millennials). Of course, this didn't stop brands from showcasing their products and services. Instead of being featured between TV show breaks, they are now more "organically" featured within the actual TV program.  

According to BEN (Branded Entertainment Network owned by Bill Gates), which places products into "shows" (aka cable and network TV, streaming networks, and digital influencer videos), Amazon shows and about 75% of Netflix shows have at least one product placement. In fact, brands pay between $50,000-$500,000 to be included in just ONE episode of a streaming network's show. Within one year, the company placed over 6,000 products into shows, including Dunkin' Donuts and GM into "House of Cards," Tincup Whiskey into "Jessica Jones," and Jose Cuervo into "Fuller House."

All of these brands and many more are placed within shows to "influence" people "organically." However, there is no warning pre-show that states anything in the form of #advertising or #sponsoredby(insert brand name here). The show producers or directors (and I am certain others at times as I do not know the TV business too well) are paid for such endorsements. People are simply let to understand that potentially product was paid for in order to be promoted. However, how many people are simply "influenced" to buy a specific bag label, or shop at Target, or get their special coffee blend at Starbucks. Personally, I was very much intrigued to visit the Moon Palace in Mexico after seeing two trips to the luxury resort on a reality show (it was on the original WAGS show on E!...no, I am not ashamed). 

If shows are not required to showcase their paid placements that may or may not "influence" their audience, why is it required by the FTC to have influencers make it public to their audiences. The FTC requires digital creators (Instagram content creators, bloggers, YouTube stars, social media anything) to very specifically and clearly use a hashtag of ad, sponsorship or endorsement if they show or mention a product that was paid for by a brand to be promoted or gifted by a brand. In Germany, a digital talent must showcase that their content is "sponsored" if it can "influence" their audience in any way, including not only if it was paid for but if they bought the product themselves and want to showcase that it comes from a specific brand/store. For the last year or so, the FTC has sent out letters numerous to "celebrities" they believe have been some of the “worst” offenders on social media. The FTC has also taken action against several brands directly.

Where does this requirement stop? The current trend is influencers creating their own product lines. Does that make their self promotions ads? When a brand, such as Abercrombie or Gucci, promote themselves via social media, do they not influence people? Should they be placing #ad before each Instagram caption? Why is it different?

If you look at brands like Revolve, you can see they work off of taking talent (influencers that "influence" large audiences of potential consumers) on trips. It was reported that 65% to 70% percent of current overall sales at Revolve are driven by influencers. However, not every post by the talent is captioned as a sponsorship. Should each and every one of them be since the travel is paid for by Revolve?

In my personal opinion, digital influencers are publicly known to promote product that is either paid for or gifted to them. If there is a concern over people that may be "influenced" and want it to be clearer as that will prevent them from purchasing an item or service mentioned by the "influencers," the "influencers" should simply have a version of a verified checkmark that can be globally known as an industry mark for "this talent promotes product, OR this channel, if it's specific to their blog or Instagram or any other social media outlet, includes ads. Period! No need to mention it in each post. "Influencer" promotions (on any channel for any niche market) are simply ads 2.0. This is the evolution of product promotion from newspaper ads to commercials to PR to digital (previous article), and it should be treated as such.

[vicfrid]

Problem Solving

'Content is fire; social media is gasoline.' - Jay Baer

I have been involved in the digital marketing realm for nearly a decade...whether it was trying to grow my MySpace wall (who remembers Tom?), or taking pictures for friends starting their own blogs, or consulting for media properties that needed event coordination and article composition. I can still remember the days of Twitter being the biggest platform because Ashton Kutcher said so. I also still remember meeting the "top" bloggers (because the term "influencer" wasn't a "thing") of the "world" at the very first Bloglovin' Awards (and not knowing who anyone was but forcing the "stylish people" to take pictures because I was hired to help coordinate the event...oh that NYC hustle: say yes, figure it out later).

My true jump into the field, though, was when I started consulting for Rebecca Minkoff. It was an amazing opportunity (and not just because I got free monthly bags). I started off right under the CMO, who was also my mentor in the field, helping set up and run Becky's social channels, managing the influencer gifting programs, and event coordination. I grew within my short time at the company to becoming the first EIC of the brand's blog (not sure it exists now, but the actual brand is booming like CRAZY). 

When I worked there, it was the days when I could literally get the "world" for nothing from influencers. I still remember simply gifting Chiara of The Blonde Salad a bag without any cost requirements in exchange for content on her social media channels and blog. I also remember paying Leandra of Man Repeller a ridiculous low budget for hosting an event for the brand. Crazy times! Who knew bloggers would grow and grow and grow and grow and now...TAKE OVER THE WORLD?!

Ok, I did. I LOVE this industry, and I do believe influencers (not all) have a long life span and capabilities to change the world (especially the e-commerce world). They can literally make or bankrupt a brand (did you see how Snapchat lost 1.3B in value when Kylie Jenner...god the power of that family is truly limitless...very casually mentioned not using it any longer via Twitter).

Bloggers (now mostly referred to as digital influencers or in my personal opinion tastemakers) are "celebrities" bred on social media platforms (Blogs, Twitter, Facebook...you name it) that have a large and dedicated audience on various topics that allow marketers to target consumers with focused communication. With digital influencers a brand can:

build awareness

offer informative resources through tutorials

provoke a relatable and authentic effect with personalized content

establish long-term relationships (aka build loyal customers)

drive traffic

encourage sales

It's a "two birds with one stone" concept on CRACK! By hiring one talent, a company receives the services of a creative director, photographer, videographer, model and editor in one expert package for way less money (when paired against a traditional branded photoshoot...the last one I did for a brand was close to 40K for content alone...then add media buying budget and distribution budget, oy! Do you know how much promotion you can get globally from an influencer with that budget?!).

Recently, I have had the opportunity to attend several conferences focused around Influencer Marketing. Some of the lectures were incredibly interesting, and one theme among most was clear: problem solving. From traditional advertising (which in my opinion is where Influencer Marketing is heading on a grander scale) to traditional marketing to influencer marketing, the key was answering the question of how does this product or service impact someone's life? In other words, what is the benefit when integrated into a consumer's life?

Looking back at more traditional advertising, commercials were incredibly affective. Why? They took viewers to new places, whether those places were actual location ideas or inspirations through a brand's concept of what they were. The effect was "this allows me to achieve something" (for example happiness).

One of the best stories I heard from traditional advertising was regarding an ad for oranges. Hopefully I can do it justice in summary:

When an advertising agency was asked to help an orange farm sell more oranges because the year was extra fruitful, the ad agency knew they couldn't just make people eat an orange a day without reason. How do you make people eat an orange a day? What is the benefit? The agency quickly realized that, though, they could not make everyone eat an orange a day, they could make everyone use 2-3 oranges per person per day by drinking fresh orange juice as part of a balanced morning breakfast. AND so started the advertising commercials, magazine pages and etc of a glass of orange juice completing the morning routine. As the association of orange juice and breakfast grew, so did the business of oranges.

Today commercials are not seen as often thanks to Netflix, Hulu, and other ad blocking services for a small monthly fee. SO how do you achieve successful advertising now?! INFLUENCERS (bloggers, Instagram stars, YouTube stars etc etc etc)!!! Over 51% of the US population has internet, 60% of sales are digital, and 74% of consumers rely on social media when making purchasing decisions. 

The theme has remained the same, but the format has changed to digital for effectiveness. It is still most important that the promotional push provides a value, a true fundamental and functional value to the audience. Something they can relate to as a need in their lives. Why is the product useful to the audience? Is it essential to the audience? The audience must understand the utility of the brand and product. They need to connect with the deep functional benefit as well as the person selling it, which is why influencers are perfect for delivering advertising (in a new format...aka through social media). They are “real” people versus models, stars, or even sport icons, so other “real” people can authentically connect with them using a product similar to themselves in their daily lives.

For this reason, influencer selection is 50% of the battle. Brands must cast talent that fit their aesthetic. With a saturated market, brands must select substance over small talk, quality content over the number of followers, and authenticity over talents who posts #ad on a daily basis. AND brands must remember that working with influencers on a long term basis truly allows for long term results. The industry is now similar to advertising in the sense that you can no longer expect a sales turnover from one blog post but instead must treat the talent as you would a celebrity that is hired as the face of your company. Organic relationships that are continuous showcase a true need in the influencers' lives, which is then translated as a need in their followers' lives, which is then translated into success (aka sales and popularity of the brand).

[vicfrid]

The Fresh-Relationship 15

'I found there was only one way to look thin: hang out with fat people.' - Rodney Dangerfield

We all know about the looming freshmen 15 when we go off to college. It's that magical time when you get to go off to school far, far away from mom's homecoming and forget to eat your vegetables (which may or may not get replaced with a case of beer and pizza on a nightly consumption basis) for a year, so when you do come home for summer break you need new jeans because yours won't zip up anymore (ooops...the cost of independence).

I was one of the very few to survive my first year of college without gaining weight. I actually lost my baby fat that first year. Granted I was never a fat kid, but my face and stomach did get smaller because in addition to pizza (so much pizza and night time Taco Bell runs) I discovered the gym. It was this mythical place that people would go to work out and burn off all the junk food and booze. Having barely run ever before (and by run I mean slightly speed walk my required one mile run in order to pass gym class in grade school), I was not one for ever exercising as a kid. I know people say this, but it's really true when it comes to me: my body was not designed to run. Let's call it a mechanical flaw. I did the occasional sit ups and slightly lifted weights (a full 3 lbs per arm), but that was the extent of it.

In college, however, I discovered machines that let you work out without having to plan a full workout strategy...or run. God I hate running (I mentioned the mechanical issue before, right?). My favorite was the elliptical machine. Some days I would do an hour before classes and then an hour before bed (mixed with some ab and arm machines in between...sometimes...my belief is: if I sweat, I win).

SO I managed to get away without gaining weight in college. I thought I was good. I continued working out, balancing my diet (somewhat...I will never give up pizza or chips). I thought I would be fairly skinny moving forward. THEN I learned about the new relationship 15. I've had boyfriends before, but I've never not worked out or gained weight. Gym always remained a priority to me. However, this time I moved in with homeboy AND let me tell you...the relationship 15 is REAL (if you're happy of course and in that honeymoon/never want to do anything but cuddle on the couch (I know barf on me) phase...if not sorry but maybe happiness is overrated for some relationships...awkward).

First there's the issue of the honeymoon phase. You don't really want to be apart, especially for an hour plus getting sweaty (getting sweaty is only fun with him tehehe), so you spend all weekend eating, cuddling and being lazy. The second issue is that during the week there's just no time. Waking up early before work is a b#€¥, and again after work you just want to enjoy a glass of wine, dinner, and couch time with the man. How do you force yourself instead to go do an hour of cardio? Which also brings me to point three: the booze. I mean don't get me wrong, I can be with my man without alcohol (I don't have a problem...I swear...definitely not), but it just makes things nice when you can have a glass of wine with dinner. So much more romantic to toast when they’re two of you. I mean they toast at weddings, so clearly it's a sign of love.

Now saying all this, I want to make it clear that I am not complaining because I'm all in love and all that corny stuff, BUT I'm also not a fan of my jeans getting tight (so very tight).

SO recently I've decided to find workout routines online inspired by my fav influencers, and some can actually be done at home while spending time with bae or while he goes off to watch Rugby for 90 minutes (it's like football but not, yay) and Cricket (it's like baseball but not, more yay coz I don't enjoy watching anything but basketball and that's coz my home team has Lebron, GO CAVS...We are Witnesses). ANYWAY my top 3 current obsessions are....

#1. Cassey Ho of Blogilates is amazing. I love her 28 Minutes to Fitness HERE because the session can be done at home in 28 minutes (duh), which is enough time to make you sweat in the morning before work when you're short on time.

#2. Kayla Itsines is one of my favorites; she's so motivating and even has multiple workout options that you can be inspired to copy from her daily Instagram posts in addition to her website HERE (currently offering 7 days free of workout tips and recipes).

#3. Amanda Kloots is the cutest; I discovered her through Something Navy's account. You can check out her website HERE for videos of a super fun workout you can do anywhere, including your home (though I feel bad for your downstairs neighbor) as it's a lot of fun dancing and jumping around inspired by jump-roping, which is known to be an amazing full body workout.

I’m starting off super slow, but my resolution for 2018 (and I know everyones says it, BUT I really mean it...no bs, none at all) is to workout at least 4X a week minimum. I’m not adding pressure to lose a set number of pounds or be a certain size. I just want to be healthier and feel more confident in my body. 

[vicfrid]

Tourism Dating

‘Our happiest moments as tourists always seem to come when we stumble upon one thing while in pursuit of something else.’ -Lawrence Block

I am no longer single, so I personally have no more dating nightmares (unless bae forgets to put his socks in the hamper...oh the fun date we have after...just kidding...maybe). Luckily, though, I have plenty of single friends (that's right, line up boys, my crew is ready to mingle...and all blonde) whose stories I can use for writing inspiration.

My newest friend is a Tinder newbie. Having spent plenty of time on the app myself, I was curious to hear about her experience. Her best story is a new concept that I think is an app waiting to happen...let's call it Tourism Dating.

No one likes traveling solo (or maybe that's just me), or at least no one wants to be solo 100% of their trip (that's what causes you to talk to the voices in your head...though I'm sure yours are friendly like mine...I joke...unless they're listening...kidding again). Basically this concept is simply fly somewhere, get on Tinder, and find a cutie (maybe a few...options never hurt no one).

Now the goal is to find one for day time tourism and one for the evening cocktails (unless the first is really fun, then you can cancel on the second and have part dose with the first). Not only do you get a hottie to show you around tourist spots, but you get the local experience as well. Did I also mention these are dates, so most likely you get a lunch, dinner and a few cocktails too from the new "friend(s)" making the trip so much more affordable (it's a downward economy, let's be smart here ladies).

Using this method of dating, my friend got a full day tour of Portugal, the best seafood the city of Lisbon had to offer, and overall a memorial trip...PLUS a photographer to record her trip. That's tour guide, date, photographer, and meal ticket...that’s 4 in 1 easy package (or swipe).

Traveling has just been reinvented...you’re welcome! 

[vicfrid]

"Tag" You're It...My New Must Have Bling

‘Trends come and go, and style evolves. It's important to have pieces of jewelry that are timeless and look chic despite ever-changing fashions’ - Karen Elson

I love jewelry (what girl doesn't, right?). Accessorising is just so fun! I have necklaces that I wear when I need an extra pop to an all black outfit, and I have ones that are part of my staple look...delicate and gold that I treasure beyond belief. Rings are really my number one obsession though. I have three that I never leave home without (seriously I feel naked without them). I have other rings of course, but I honestly haven't worn any of them in at least a year. 

However, there were three additional rings that used to be part of my uniform as well. They were adorable, simple, stackable, gold plated letter rings. I LOVED them! The letters were E, B and M for my nieces and nephews. Sadly, though, one got caught on something and just could be put back together. Because they were no longer available at the same store, I ended up not repurchasing them as I loved having the very specific style (so sad because I loved the idea of keeping my family close to me...at my fingers tips...get it).

Luckily, for me I recently found an amazing site with an even cuter way to keep my loved ones with me always...Chelsea Charles. The site has adorable love tags that can be personalized with any name or icon you want. Obviously I chose my NOW four nephew and nieces names. It's truly the perfect, simple yet sparkly, gold necklace that can go with almost everything. 

In addition and in celebration of my newest nephew (who makes me an aunt for the fourth time), I also decided to create a personalized necklace for my new sister in law with a tiny heart and baby name. It's really the perfect gift for any new mom...or grandma because I'm totally considering ordering another one for mom, who is now a grandma to two cuties.

Check out the site for these tags HERE as well as the coolest health bracelets. Honestly, this site is the perfect thing for the upcoming holiday gifts because you know you got Christmas, Hanukkah, NYE, and then the oh so fun Valentine's Day just around the corner...wink wink boys! 

[vicfrid]

Sangria...The Healthy Choice

'Wine is constant proof that God loves us and loves to see us happy.' - Benjamin Franklin

They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, and a glass of wine at night can help you live longer. Image what an apple soaked in wine can achieve. Personally I think the possibilities are ENDLESS, and we should all be drinking sangria ASAP. 

In fact, sangria is one of the MANY reasons I love summer (in addition to open toe shoes, dresses without tights, etc. etc. etc.). There is nothing better than sitting outside with a refreshing glass of boozy fruit covered in red or white wine OR even a rose (I'm color blind when it comes to drinking...you got it, pour it) to wash away the anxiety of life. AND let me tell you nothing causes anxiety like moving, especially if the apartment you're cleaning/packing up looks like what can only be described as (and this is the best description I've recently found on Insta) losing a game of Jumanji.

Recently I decided to try making sangria at home as a post packing/unpacking, exhausted date night drink. The twist was making it with a bit of rum...because nothing says summer like rum (I mean it is the main alcohol in a daiquiri, and you can't not think of beachy vaca summer time when drinking one of those). My recipe is below, but I say with drinks it's always fun to experiment a little so feel free to change as you see fit...

1-2 apple

1-2 peach

(officially the fruit is up to you; you can use anything from cherries to plums to pears to strawberries and etc)

1 cup of rum

1/2 cup of white sugar

1 bottle of wine (I used a red Pinot Noir)

12 oz lime soda

DIRECTIONS:

Cut up the fruit

Combine the rum with the wine

Pour over the fruit or pour the fruit into the liquid (but pick wisely; this is like the left/right Twix situation)

Chill for at least 2 hours

Pour over ice and ENJOY

So make a nice pitcher (the bigger the better), and enjoy the last few weeks of warmth. Take a date to a nearby park or beach and enjoy the refreshing buzz...maybe with an even nicer cheese plate (YUM).

[vicfrid]

Date Nights & Cocktails: JELLO

‘Whoever said nothing is impossible obviously hasn't tried nailing Jell-O to a tree.' - John Candy

Tequila and limes go together like peanut butter and jelly, like milk and cookies, like salt and pepper, like macaroni and cheese, like a hipster and a gluten-free diet, etc etc etc. For this reason (and no not this reason alone), this past weekend I made lime tequila jello shots...YUP, it happened (there may have also been some strawberry vodka ones). 

To start off, let me state that I have had jello shots many times (typically with vodka) back in high school and college. It's basically frozen-sh water, sugar, and alcohol. Not too complicated to make even for the worst "cook," so when I found out my significant other had never had a jello shot in his life (WHAT, I know, right? I guess they weren't as popular in South Africa) I knew what our Friday night date night was going to include. 

As we rushed to one of the very few American stores in Amsterdam (because apparently, it's not popular here either), we decided to go with the lime flavor since we had a bottle of tequila waiting for us at home (plus as I mentioned earlier tequila and limes just go to together like...well, like me and tequila go together...aka pure happiness).

Once home, the fun began...AND let me tell you this is the best date night activity. Of course, you should probably make sure to also order or get groceries to make a little something something for the stomach to hold the jello shots. Personally, I think it's fun to cook with someone...unless they're getting messy or in my way...then they should just sit down and entertain conversationally (I'm obviously super chill). 

My recommendation is to prep the jello shots first. All you do is follow the directions on the back of the box, BUT instead of the cold water add alcohol. Remember the less water, the slower the freeze BUT the greater the fun. I would even recommend throwing the shots into the freezer initially to speed up the 2-4 hour process. 

Now as the shots freeze for consumption, I recommend a nice appetizer, a 'waiting' cocktail and the start of dinner making. Since I went with the Mexican theme (aka tequila), I would recommend the easy option of chips and salsa for appetizers. If you want to get fancy you can make nachos, but don't get lazy. Make sure to layer: chips, cheese, chips, cheese etc. (you'll thank me later) and bake (also if you can layer in there some meat and jalapenos, YUM). A bit of guac goes a long way too...smash some avocados, chop up some onions, peppers, tomatoes, apple (yeah, I said it), cilantro, and a few squeezes of lime. Easy breezy. Another option is a super cheesy quesadilla...melted cheese, maybe some shredded chicken or steak (or pulled pork, or beef, or prosciutto...you get the idea...YUM). Regardless you have the above options to snack on while you wait for the freezing process to take place. AND I would maybe start a pitcher of margaritas...coz you can never go wrong with margaritas.

While or after drinking, snacking and watching a movie or show, you can start a little dinner prep. Personally, I would recommend steak tacos (I like themes clearly). It is beyond easy to chop up some steak, throw it on the skillet with some spicy sauces, chop up some onions and peppers to add to the skillet and then put some chopped tomatoes and a selection of cheeses in some bowls. Tada!!!!! 

Once the shots are ready, I would recommend a game for consumption. Have you heard of Heads Up? It's an easy and free download on your phone. From naming celebrities to songs to movies, you guess the word on the card that’s on your head from the other player's clues before the timer runs out. Each of you can take turns playing the same category, and the winner with the lowest correct answers has to take a jello a shot and so on. Enjoy!

[vicfrid]

The “Art” Of Dating

'Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is painting that is felt rather than seen.' - Leonardo da Vinci

As a kid, I used to love coloring. Not to brag or anything but my coloring books were sorta the s$%@. I stayed within the lines (major disciplined OCD child), and I knew how to color mix (blue and yellow make green, whaaaat?!). Obviously, this "super impressive" talent was noticed and nurtured by my parents, who put me in art classes at the Cleveland Museum of Art (yeah Ohio has culture too, folks). I loved using acrylic paints and pastel chalk to draw still lives. Plants, flowers, and nature were probably my favorite to put onto a canvas, but I also loved recreating artists' masterpieces.

Since college, I haven't really picked up a sketchpad. There were a few moments of testing my skills with Central Park visits when I first moved to NYC, but that was many, many (many, many...) years ago. Recently though, a friend had introduced me to Pinot's Palette. Not only is this an art class that is kinda like painting by numbers for adults (as in there is no way you cannot feel like an artist ready to launch your work at the local gallery), but it is a BYOB (wine only...though I think champagne, aka mimosas, are allowed too) activity.

In summary, the class consists of drinking (yay...that is an activity I have kept up with since college) while a teacher shows you how to create a masterpiece literally one step at a time giving you a few minute between each step to drink (and paint of course). Personally, I had the best time with my girls. Between the amazing skills we never knew we had and the booze, the day could not have gone better, especially when you decide to add on your own steps (do so with caution). 

This, of course, got me thinking about how fun this would as a date night. Obviously, dinner dates are fun (and also include booze), but there is something about these classes that allows you to have a different experience and connection to someone. There's less overthinking and more ability to be goofy, creative, and super flirty when you put on a smock and attempt to paint (even if an instructor literally gives you stroke by stroke...no pun intended...directions). If one of you simply has no artistic skills, it's a really good excuse to get very up and close to really help move that brush in someone's hand in order to properly paint the sky. If you're both good, you can make it a competition. Make the class or instructor vote on the one that is the best match to the final goal, and the loser must buy dinner/brunch/shots/etc (sidenote of advice: guys make sure the girl wins). 

Overall there are so many intimate yet fun moments that can occur with paint (especially when alcohol is involved). It may even lead to taking some paint home for a private session (nude models are hard to come by...pun intended). Remember the movie, "Ghost?" Yes, it was sculpting not painting but art is art. Ever wonder why artists got all the ladies back in the day? I think Picasso had a mistress per every type of art period he created, SO make your next date a little creative (trust me the girl will be impressed just by the “outside the box” thinking). I know I'm totally making my next class a romantic one.  

[vicfrid]

The “Mixology” Of Dating

'A woman drove me to drink, and I didn't even have the decency to thank her.' - W.C. Fields

They say the best way to a man's heart is through his stomach...I'm going to call bull@&$% on that. I'm not saying there's no truth to that concept at all, but there's no way that just feeding a man well (like even Top Chef/Food Network well), is enough to keep him (though I am certain it helps...especially if you do it in lingerie...just saying). However, even the beauty Chef Giada De Laurentiis got divorced, and her recipes are killer (google if you don't get the reference). I'm just saying there are other organs...and no I'm not talking about his male organ (dirty minds...but yeah "feeding" that one definitely helps keep a man). Nevertheless, I'm referring to the liver. I strongly feel like that that organ is overlooked when making a love connection.  

Cooking is a great concept, and cooking together as a date can be very romantic. Unless you...

A. live in a small apartment with an even smaller kitchen preventing you both from even chopping at the same time since the counter space is limited, to say the least (aka my NYC apartment joy)

B. don't want to spend tons of money on ingredients to make something you can only enjoy for the night and then be left with leftover ingredients that may or may not spoil before you decide to cook another meal that really requires them (making anything healthy or fancy ain't always so easy on the wallet)

C. don't want to spend a majority of your date separated (or not cuddling, to say the least) as you chop, stir, etc etc etc in the kitchen preventing the food from burning down the apartment

D. don't want to clean not just the dishes used but all of the needed cookware (the fancier the dish, the more pots and pans required)

Luckily there is such a thing as Seamless, Postmates, GrubHub and much more making food delivery ridiculously easy. Just pick your favorite dishes, add a delivery tip, place the order, and cuddle on the couch with your cutie (or see if you can beat the delivery clock...wink wink).

Now as mentioned, I don't think focusing on a man's stomach is enough (though a lot easier to satisfy with today's delivery service options). I recommend making the date about the booze. Not only does it loosen up the mood (whether you're on your first, or third, or 2-year anniversary date), but it is also is fun and easy compared to a full on cooking dinner (must follow the recipe to avoid food poisoning) date. Obviously, there is always the option of grabbing a bottle of wine. It's easy...but nowhere near as much fun as creating a signature couple cocktail. There is a reason that there are so many drinking games...alcohol is fun! AND yes, technically you will need to shop and spend money on ingredients, but it's...

A. way less required ingredients than a good recipe

B. all of the ingredients will be used up without the fear of spoiling (alcohol has no expiration date...and if it does, it's 100% way, way longer than veggies)  

C. clean up is so much easy...no scrubbing or rewashing oil off a pan 50 times

My two recent recipe attempts are below, and (not to brag or anything) they were magical. Though, please note that I "cook" by experimentation, so the measurements are guesstimated post creation. Not only is it fun to measure the amount of alcohol going into the drinks, but it's really telling of another person's taste and flexibility as you figure out what additional ingredients to throw into a cocktail to make your signature drink. Personally, I love spicy things, so if a man can't handle his jalapenos we got issues. The taste testing portion is also great because as you get more buzzed (since the food most likely hasn't arrived yet), you can play drinking games (HERE are some fun ones for just two attendees) or just feel more comfortable, which always allows for more coziness on the couch as you wait for the food and pick a movie to watch.

In summary, cooking is romantic and everything but drink recipes are way more fun, so test out your mixology skills and let Seamless provide the rest. 

Bloody Mary (2-4 glasses)

DECOR

Celery 

Olives 

Pickles (these are my favorite...also available at Bed, Bath and Beyond food section...yeah, that's a thing now)

COCKTAIL

2 Fresh Tomatoes 

1 Can of Tomatoes 

1-2 Tablespoons of Worcestershire Sauce

1 Lime (can be replaced with lemon based on preference)

1 Can of Jalapeno Pepper 

1/4-1/2 Ginger Root

1/4-1/2 Bottle of Sliced Pepperoncini with the Juice

Vodka (amount is based on your preference)

Mix all of the tomatoes and peppers in a blender, add the Worcestershire Sauce, squeeze in the lime, pour it over ice, add some much-needed vodka, and stir before sipping away. 

If you prefer to simply purchase your mix, though, I recommend McClure's (it is life changing...and also available at Whole Foods and Bed, Bath and Beyond food section). 

Margarita (2-4 glasses)

1 Cucumber

1 Jalapeno

1/2 Ginger Root

2-3 Lime

1/3-1/4 Cup of Cointreau 

Tequila (amount is based on your preference) 

Mix all of the ingredients together in a blender except for the Cointreau and Tequila, which can be added to the mixture post blend then pour over ice and enjoy. For prettiness, you can add in a few slices of cucumber as decor to the rim of the glass.

[vicfrid]

Road Trippin’...

'Kilometers are shorter than miles. Save gas, take your trip in kilometers.' - George Carlin

I love to travel, BUT I'm not always a great traveler. There is so much anxiety that goes through my head as I pack and get ready...

Did I bring everything I need?

Am I bringing too much?

Am I not bringing enough?

Did I forget something super important?

Does my suitcase weigh more than 50lbs?

Can I get my suitcase up and down the stairs of my NYC apartment?

What if they lose my suitcase?

Is my passport about to expire?

Did I remember my driver's license?

What if I miss my flight?

What if I snore on the plane?

What if I don't sleep on the plane and the jet lag makes me crazy?

Etc etc etc...

Of course once I'm where I need to be I'm excited and ready to explore or relax poolside turning off the entire world (oh the magic of an ocean breeze...and a Bahama Breeze...just kidding I'm a margarita kind of girl...Mescal if you got it). However, prior to reaching my destination, I'm a ball of nerves (especially figuring out a taxi to my hotel when there is a language barrier...hate solo traveling more than anything else...I'm a baby, don't judge me). For this reason, I'm a huge fan of road trips. Well for this reason and many other positive ones (as long as I'm not the driver...jk...kinda) including:

Control over music and being able to sing out loud (flight attendants and neighboring passengers tend to frown upon you belching out Beyoncé at the top of your lungs...rude).

Ability to stop anytime to stretch your legs and get snacks (mmm beef jerky and kettle cooked chips) other than peanuts (or now pretzels, which I hate even more because omg nothing causes thirst more).

Space past the armrest and the inch and half seat recline.

No security check, so you can pack all the full oz bottles of liquid your little heart desires.

No $25 fee to check a bag and the ability grab something out of your bag anytime.

No real time pressure or requirement of being at the airport 1-3 hours earlier than the departure.

Etc etc etc...

I used to take road trips from NYC to Cleveland all the time with old friends for various holidays to see our families. It was always my preference to flying. In fact, I wouldn't have minded taking more cross-country road trips in general. 

Most recently I took a road trip from Amsterdam to France hitting Paris and Provence; it made for magical memories of wine, champagne, vineyards, oh and that iconic tower in Paris (not too shabby). With these trips, I've learned there is a big difference traveling with friends versus (in the words of Carrie Bradshaw) a "man friend." You still require all the same materials: snacks, music, and clothes, BUT spending over five confined hours with the opposite sex you hope to have sex with again definitely requires a few different selections of the "same" materials...

#1. Pajamas (or loungewear if you wanna be fancy)

If you're traveling with friends, you're going to need some (I don't care how close we are; I ain't trying to see you walk around naked while I enjoy my morning coffee). Technically a tee and any pair of boxers/sweatpants will do. No one is there to judge (unless your friends are a@&holes...don't travel with a@#hole friends). If you do want to be "fancy" though, you can get super cute and cozy PJ sets (because sometimes it feels nice to sleep in real pajamas)...

Victoria's Secret Romper (love rompers, love the softness...though it can be a bit annoying when needing to pee) - $48

J.Crew Dreamy Set (it doesn't get any cozier than cotton) - $78

ASOS Avocado Set (seriously how cute are these?!) - $40

H&M Superhero Set (sometimes you have to be your own superhero) - $17.99

True & Co. Essential Set (this is "the lazy girl" PJ set because you can so throw on a bra and jeans but continue wearing that shirt to a chill brunch...not that I've done that or anything) - $68

If you're traveling with a "man" friend, you're going to want to add a little extra to that late night look. Obviously, there's the no cost no pajama option (never underestimate the simplicity of your birthday suit). However, lingerie was invented for a reason. There's a lot to be said about the confidence a woman can gain from simply covering herself in lace or the magic of silk against the skin. Now there is a difference between full-on lingerie that you're purchasing for him to take off (and is probably lacking in the "super comfortable" department for actual sleeping) and the sexy lingerie you're purchasing for the morning after as you either repack for the next city, or drink your coffee in, or just rock around as you wash your face and get ready to explore the current location. Personally, I recommend bringing both...

Victoria's Secret Crossbody Lace Slip (there is nothing sexier than being "technically" naked while getting ready for the night...or day)- $58  

Victoria's Secret Lace Trim Satin Short Set (it's the "oh this old set" look) - $48

Wolf & Whistle Black Lace Set (the perfect mix of sexy and cute...it just is) - $38

Fleur du Mal Bondage Bodysuit (100% for show...but if you got it, flaunt it) - $225

True & Co. Trove Swiss Dot Set (sexy for him and easy to sleep in because it is fully unlined)- $46

#2. Travel Attire

If you are traveling with friends, you want to feel as comfortable as possible from head to toe. We all have that one sweater that is softer than anything else in the world, that bra you just don't care about because it's not pretty yet has the perfect wiring to support you without being annoying, and the pants you kinda look good in but would never wear on a date. Obviously, you want to look "cute" in case you decide to stop and take pictures while buying snacks and gas, but in that casual chic, I just rolled out of bed kind of way.

If you are traveling with a boy, you still want to look "casual" but it's going to take some effort. The goal is for him to think you're naturally beautiful and effortlessly chic (so basically figure out that "let me just grab any old tee to rock for the road trip" ahead of time to perfectly match those "I guess these jeans will do" over that "always" matching bra and panties). Basically, you can still rock the sweatshirt for comfort, but the ugly bra needs to go (just in case). Personally, I love a graphic tee or sweatshirt because it's not only comfortable but showcases a dorky sense of humor (and if he doesn't have one...boy bye).

Jac Vanek has some of my favorites, including the Unfriend Sweatshirt ($19), the Overthink Flannel ($84), and the Bad Influence Jacket ($99). The best part about the flannel and jacket is that you can totally rock a plain white tee or tank under to showcase a little cleavage and lingerie lace (sexy yet comfortable).

#3. Toiletries

If you are traveling with friends it's all about the natural, easy look (because you can FaceTune or Snapchat filter your selfies in five seconds flat...and you know you're taking selfies). Just wash your face, shower, put on some deodorant, brush those teeth, throw on those comfort clothes and rock out.

If you are traveling with a crush, though, you may want to add a little "natural" to that "natural" look (if boys only knew the effort behind the "I woke up like this" look). Now, I'm not encouraging anyone to do a smoky eye for a road trip (or daytime...coz we're not in high school anyone...remember those magical days of FULL ON eyeliner and glitter eyeshadow before 7 am homeroom...oy vey), but a little concealer for under the eye bags, maybe some light mascara for a little eye color pop (not always...gotta stay "natural" but it really keeps the tired away), and a touch of volumizer for the hair never hurt anyone. ALSO, may I encourage the purchase of Cottonelle cleansing cloths (keeping you extra fresh throughout the day whenever needed...just in case there’s a “rest” stop that isn’t just for “resting”...wink wink).  

#4. Music

Regardless of who you are traveling with, Spotify a playlist. DO IT...pay that extra $9.99 for the month to avoid commercials and enjoy some tunes (if traveling internationally, make sure to download the playlist prior to stepping out of a Wifi zone...yeah learned that the hard way). Obviously, whatever music you like you don't need to shy away from whether you are with friends or the bf. I say mix up the tunes. Friends are typically more fun (probably because it's a girl thing) to go all old school with and belch out a little No Doubt (Don't Speak), TLC (Waterfalls), Mariah Carey (Always Be My Baby), Evanescence (Bring Me To Life), and Toni Braxton (Unbreak My Hear). For the bf, it may be a little more old school on the side of Sir Mix A Lot (Baby Got Back) to show your sense of humor. Otherwise, mix in today's top hits and roll out.

#5. Conversations/Games

If traveling with friends, you are going to talk about boys. Whether it is past dates, past relationships, current issues, etc etc etc, it all ties back to boy talk (with a mix of how work is going and some other notes about diets and stuff). If traveling with a gentleman, you probably want to stay away from talking about other partners whether they are current or past (especially if you are not in an open relationship...oops). Obviously, don't ignore the ex-talk (everyone has them), but no need to go into the same full detail as you would with friends. Talk about movies, work, what's happening in the world/news, hobbies, childhood stories, etc etc etc. If the trip is long, don't freak out if there are pauses or silent moments (you don't freak out when you have them with friends...chill...stay out of your head ladies)...besides that's what the music is there for. However, if you are crazy insane about silences like me there are a few games/talking points you can bring up as super easy and casual "have you heard of..."

The Cube Test (a fun personality test that doesn't take long yet kind of tells you a little about the kind of person you are with)

You are walking alone in the desert and you come across a cube.

How big is the cube?

What color is the cube?

How does that color make you feel?

Can you see inside the cube?

How big is the cube compared to the desert?

You see a ladder.

Is the ladder leaning on the cube?

What color is the ladder?

What is the distance between the cube and the ladder?

You see a horse.

What is the distance between the cube and the horse?

What color is the horse?

Is the horse tied up or roaming freely?

Is the horse wearing a saddle?

There is a storm.

What is the distance between the storm and the cube?

Is the size of the storm big or small?

Is the storm passing by or staying in place?

Is the storm violent, thunder, and lightning or calm and light rain?

You see a flower.

Is there only one flower or many?

Where is the flower, what is it next to?

What color is the flower?

(Read HERE for what each answer means)

21 Questions (you guess what the other person is thinking by asking 21 questions)

Never Have I Ever (technically a drinking game, but since drinking and driving is bad you can do it with snacks...like chips or beef jerky...yum...if you remember the number of times you were supposed to drink, you can also make up for it when you finally stop for the night)

[vicfrid]

So Very Welcoming

'Home is where one starts from.' - T. S. Eliot

One of my favorite items of joy in the world is a good graphic tee. I can't explain why I love them so much, but I do. I love mixing them with dressy skirts or just ripped denim jeans. I adore rocking a blazer over the inappropriate ones (coz I'm an adult...obviously), and I think they look super cool when they showcase a band (especially if you've actually seen that band live...or at the very least have three to five of their songs, classic ones, on your go to playlist). 

Perhaps this is why I also love signage. Why say it, when you can just have your sense of humor hanging in your hallway. I am honestly at TJ Maxx once every other week to see what new home goods they have delivered because I am obsessed with their wall art. The last one I bought was a black and white (chalk board type box sign) stating that "I will have my cake and eat it too" (god I hope so...I love cake). 

In addition to the above amusements that make my life so much better, I have recently also discovered doormats. Sadly I live in NYC, where they are just unnecessary (though are they really...I still have an entrance door...people knock...I get guests). However, for those with a home...West Elm is the place to shop. The mats are super cute with sayings like "Hey Good Lookin" (who doesn't want to be reminded that they're good looking) and "It Would be Swell If You Could Ring The Bell" (why is rhyming so fun). 

You know your door is waiting to make a statement...  

[vicfrid]

Voodoo Doll 2.0

'An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.' - Mahatma Gandhi

If you have ever broken up with someone or had a super bad day because of some a&*hole, you know you wish you could voodoo doll that person. It would be so therapeutic to make them fall on their face or feel a sharp pain in their left leg. Even if the dolls aren't real, it's kind of healing to just stick it with a needle, curse under your breath, and release some tension before having to face them ever again. 

Sadly voodoo dolls are a thing of the past (or a thing of the movies). However, this hilarious Ex Knife Holder by Raffaele Iannello (can also be found here) is in the present and just one shopping cart away. It is honestly the best knife holder in the world. Not only is it a hilarious (and a little "wow you have a dark side") display for your kitchen, but it also lets you on a daily let go of some anger from the long, long day you spend with people. I swear the next friend that has a breakup is getting this little guy for consoling her deep wounds (along with a bottle of tequila and a box of tissues of course).  

[vicfrid]

Flower Power

'I must have flowers, always, and always.' - Claude Monet

I am not an interior designer, BUT I love decorating my apartment. I love finding pieces that fit into the various corners and make my studio apartment (NYC living, right?!) more of a home. However, I am not great at looking at a space and seeing the full picture within the first moment. I can imagine where the big/basic furniture should go, and the general concept of what I want to achieve. However, it's with time that I can actually decide that I also need item A to showcase my books, or item B to put away my shoes, or item C to fill up a wall that's clearly in need of something I just can't put my finger on. Sometimes I decide I need something for a section of my apartment because it's inconvenient not having a shelf for my coffee maker. Other times I find an item and center a corner around it because it inspires me. It's why I LOVE going to furniture stores, especially the vintage ones in New York. I swear if I had more space, I'd be visiting them every weekend. 

Recently I've been on the hunt for vases. I love flowers (what girl doesn't, right?!), and I have a rather decent one from Ikea (because when in doubt, go to Ikea) BUT sometimes a girl wants more cuteness then practically. Yes, I'm totally a chotchkie kind of girl (don't judge...we all our things). Luckily this is where Etsy, CB2, and Fab.com come to my rescue. Actually this time it was just Fab.com, but the other sites are magic too. How adorable are these bulb vases by Serax? The company itself is actually very interesting with the type of products they create. It was started in 1987 by Dutch brothers Axel and Serge Van den as a line of flower pots, which grew to focus on home accents with a hit of floral related beauty. I am obsessed with them to throw around the apartment for a little cute and floral touch. You know you want some...flowers can brighten any room, especially when in a bulb vase.  

[vicfrid]

Swipe Left, Swipe Right...and Drink!

'Twenty-four hours in a day, twenty-four beers in a case. Coincidence?' - Stephen Wright

It's officially Fall, which means it’s officially football season. Now personally when I think of football I think of high school Friday games (and the after parties...go Solon Comets), college Saturday games (and the tailgate parties...go Bucks...O-H), and Sunday games (and the Sunday Funday parties...go Browns...don't judge me, I have to support the home team...and they need all the support they can get). In summary, to me Fall and football season are about drinking and mingling with friends. Whether you are rocking head-to-toe OSU gear and playing power hour or sharing a pitcher and looking cute to get the boys to notice you (during commercials only...obviously) at the local sports bar, you're drinking...and finding (for most girls) as many dates as possible (because finally everyone is done leaving for the summer weekend escapes) before it's winter time (aka time to thin out the heard and settle down with the 'I'm not going out in the snow, so lets order in and "cuddle"' boyfriend). 

Obviously this is the best season and excuse to actually connect with the opposite sex in real life. You can actually start conversations in between drinks and touchdowns. Nevertheless, I've noticed that no one is giving up their dating apps. Not their Tinder, or Bumble, or Happn, or blah blah blah. People are all addicted to the apps. It's like crack. You just can't stop swiping left and right in hopes of getting a match. Personally I hate it. Maybe not the swiping part, but the actual repeat conversation of where you went to school and how long you’ve been in NYC that you have with every single person that actually starts a conversation (also hate first dates...but that's a different issue).

Recently a friend has gotten back on the dating horse, and she has signed back onto Bumble. I decide to help her swipe (better her than me). However, I've decided to make a game out of it...and this is where the football/drinking comes back in full circle as I've used a few of the old games I used to play during football season...

Power Hour

If I remember correctly, power hour had very simples rules (ok not really "rules" per say but...). Everyone gets six beers, and everyone takes a shot of beer every minute for an hour. 

My Dating App Rules Version: 

You and a friend (or a group of friends...go nuts) get 6 beers each. 

Every left swipe (aka a rejection), you take a shot.

Repeat for an hour (trust me...those right swipes will slow down and become left swipes close to the end of those six beers...and hopefully some fun dates).

Kings

This games actually does have a bunch of rules, but it's not too complicated either. Basically a full deck of cards is laid out face down on a table, every player picks up one per turn, and drinks accordingly to what each card is associated with in the game. 

For example: An ace is a waterfall, so every player must drink and cannot stop until the initial player stops drinking his drinks. A 5 means all the guys in the game have to drink.A 7 means heaven, everyone must point up, and the last person to do so must drink.A 9 means rhyme, everyone must say a word that rhymes with the initial word, and the person that falls short must drink.

My Dating App Rules Version: 

Dating app pictures, bios and other details constantly have commonalities, so gather with friends and pour some drinks (or beers...or wine...player's choice). Everyone get out your phone, and everyone per their turn will start with a match...

If he has a picture of himself fishing or having caught a fish, you take a drink (you deserve it coz he ain’t your match).

If he has a shirtless picture of himself, you assign someone else to take a drink (coz you just got a treat and are potentially going to swipe right).

If he has only one photo, everyone takes a drink (no one should only have one photo).

If all of his photos have multiple people and you are stuck trying to figure out which of the dudes is in all of the photos so you can figure out which one he actually is, you can create a rule that everyone must follow and drink if it's broken.

If you have matching first degree friends on Facebook, you can ask a random question (because how small is this world and yay for juicy dirt pre-decision making time). Everyone must continue responding to the question with another question until someone loses by failing to ask a question and having to drink. 

If his bio has his height and it's under 6 feet, you play never have I ever. Everyone puts up three fingers, starting with the initial person each player says 'never have I ever'. If you've done it, you put a finger down, until someone loses and has to drink. 

If you swipe right and it’s match, it's category time. You pick a category, and everyone must say a word within it until someone fails and drinks. 

If his Instagram is connected, you play the rhyming game. 

Quarters 

A fairly easy game that requires nothing more than a glass and a quarter. Each player sits around a table with the glass centered in the middle, and everyone takes a turn trying to bounce the quarter into the glass. If someone succeeds, they can order anyone of the other players to drink. That person also gets to continue their turn. If they make three shots in row, they get to make a rule. For example: can't say drink, drank or drunk during the game.

My Dating App Rules Version:

Everyone pulls out their app and takes turns swiping. 

If you swipe left, you have to take a drink. 

If you swipe and right AND get a match, you can assign someone else to drink. You will also get to swipe again with the next match, and you can again assign someone else to drink. If you swipe three times to the right and match all three, you can make a rule. For example: if you swipe right more than once in a row, you have to take a shot.