It's Party Time: Prosecco-Infused Sugar Straws for National Prosecco Day

What's better than prosecco might you ask? Not many things, but there does happy to be one thing that takes the cake: prosecco-infused sugar straws!

Wait what? HOW is such a sweet, adorable creation even possible? 

RUFFINO Wine has partnered with candy couture artist, Maayan Zilberman of Sweet Saba to create Prosecco-infused sugar straws in celebration of National Prosecco Day on August 13th.

The limited-edition collection of prosecco-infused straws are inspired by Ruffino Prosecco’s tasting notes of elderflower and peach, with the third inspired by bubbles and celebration.  I mean.... YUM!!! Elderflower is seriously my favorite flavor, especially when its used in some bubbly.

The hand-painted straws are the perfect way to take your prosecco sips to the next level whether you’re enjoying a personal mini 187mL bottle or Prosecco or one of Ruffino’s Frosecco (Frozen Prosecco) cocktails. 

The exclusive three-piece set will be available for purchase on SweetSaba.com for $45. I am totally stocking up on these - they are the perfect touch to add even more fun to any get together.

How are you guys celebrating National Prosecco Day? x 

5 Reasons to Justify Treating Yourself Today

If you're anything like me, you probably make excuses as to why you have to constantly stick to a strict regime of eating really clean and maintaining a super healthy lifestyle. I very rarely "treat myself." There's nothing wrong with that. In fact, that's a good thing. But if you're too strict and critical of every move you make, you can miss out on things that may brighten your day. 

For instance, I just went to brunch with my friend Marisa the other day to this adorable restaurant called Great Maple at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. The crowd was great, the decor was adorable and the food was to die for! I knew this place had some really creative (and carb-y) dishes and usually on a day to day basis I am never that fun when it comes to food. You would think I am, but for the most part I stick to the same stuff. 

Marisa and I were prepared to go in - all or nothing. Even our waitress was like, wow you guys are really going for it! We got our cocktails and our delightful fruity pebbles pancakes, fried chicken and maple glazed donuts with bacon bits, and of course a sweet little salad. We had such a good time and it felt really good to just let loose a bit and simply enjoy the food in front of me and the lively atmosphere around me. 

So, on this lovely Tuesday: If you needed a sign, well here it is. Whether it's today or this weekend, find one thing that you've been wanting to do or eat and just do it. Get back on track the next day! Plus, whatever you're going to do probably makes for some really fun photos.

Here are 5 reasons to justify treating yourself today!

1. You're a perfectionist in every aspect of your life (like me) and you need to take a day off to simply enjoy the little things in life that could turn your day around. Nothing like some good old sugar!!!

2. You should document the fun things around you. Sticking to the same thing every single day gets old and you can get caught up in it. 

3. You've just met one of your goals, whether it's short-term or long-term. That deserves some celebrating!

4. You may be a little stagnant in a place in your life. Break from the usual and take a moment to do or eat something that brings you joy and inspiration - maybe it's re-creating a fun family recipe or heading to Barnes and Noble, sitting with a book and indulging in a frappuccino that you haven't drank in 10 years! (P.S., this is me - I know they're so not good for you... but why do they TASTE SO GOOD?!) Oh well. Lol.

5. It's the summer. The summer is notorious for always bringing back those feelings of excitement, nostalgia, fun and hope. There's no better time to treat yourself than during the summer. 

Photography by: Grace + Light Photo

Lately I'm Loving | #2

It's been a while since my last Lately I'm Loving, but it's back! Now that the season has changed, I have switched up my routine a bit and totally have gone into summer mode!

There's been a couple things that I have been religiously using, loving and have been borderline obsessed with that I wanted to share... What do you guys think? 

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Moisturizer

Since I was really young, I have had really oily skin. I guess it's good in the long run, but it does get annoying at times because I feel like every single moisturizer I use is too thick, creamy and causes me to breakout because it actually induces more oil production. I can honestly say this moisturizer has been my saving grace! Just like the description says, Water Drench literally goes on like a cloud! It's very light at the touch and the moment it hits the skin, it goes on like a very thin layer. I really haven't experienced a moisturizer like it. I highly recommend this for anyone who has oily skin like me. Even if you don't, it's a great daytime moisturizer or even a really nice hydrator after getting right out of the shower. SO worth the buy!!!

The Henry

I can go ON and on about The Henry! It's a new spot in the Beverly Hills/West Hollywood area that blew me away when I went for dinner. I happened to go on my birthday and was so impressed with everything from the adorable decor to the delectable food and gorgeous cocktails. They even call it, "the greatest neighborhood restaurant." I can't argue with them! A few of my favorite menu items? The avocado hummus (literally to die for), the white truffle Parmesan fries, and the spring harvest bowl (melted sweet potato, ancient grains, grilled portobello, caramelized cauliflower, snap pea, avocado, marcona almond pesto, harissa emulsion, roasted pepitas, flax seeds).

Dr. Brandt's No More Baggage

I recently tried this out and fell in LOVE!! I have bags under my eyes constantly -- partially because I never sleep (lol) and also because it's hereditary. I'm always on the hunt for a quick solution, even if it's temporary... because I like to look awake! This is an eye de-puffing gel and it's really fab. It does make the skin around the eyes tighter but it's crazy how much you can see a difference in literally minutes. If you want a quick fix, this is definitely the product to try.

Paul Mitchell Extra-Body Shampoo & Conditioner

I have always been such a huge fan of Paul Mitchell products. I always tend to lean towards using a shampoo and conditioner that helps promote volume. For some reason, I just feel like my hair falls a lot especially when I am due for a haircut. Using both of these makes my hair bouncy and shiny (I mean... who doesn't want that??!). These have been my go-to the last few months.

Soho House Malibu

What makes hanging out in Malibu that much better? When you're at Soho House Malibu, of course. I just went the other day for St~Germain's annual event, Maison St~Germain and was blown away by the beauty of this place. Of course, aside from attending exclusive events, we all know that in order to go into any Soho House, you need to have a membership. If you ever have the opportunity to go, you need to! This location is literally right on the water and the views are unparalleled. It's 3 levels and each one is an even more beachy, beautiful experience than the next. It's second name is "The Little Beach House" and I can totally see why. 

The Perfect Post-Brunch Skin Pick-Me-Up with Goldfaden MD's Skin Balancing Mask

It's no question that brunch has definitely incorporated itself into my life for the past several years. But along with those fun boozy brunch weekends come with some seriously needed rejuvenation and hydration. Ever notice that after a weekend of over-indulging (too much champagne, a lot of sweet breakfast items, maybe even a couple bites of those amazing truffle fries at your favorite brunch spot) your skin just looks dull? Maybe even bumpy with blemishes or dry from lack of water? I've noticed it's even more enhanced when brunching alfresco - it really does a number on my skin and me. That's the downside from having a little bit too much fun, but good to know that it is totally normal and completely reversible with the right steps to bring your skin back to life!

I have been using Goldfaden MD products for years now, and it's one brand that I always come back to to give my skin that healthy, natural boost when I need it - not only because it always works, but because it is so gentle on my sensitive skin. It's the first dermatologist developed naturally inspired skincare brand by Dr. Gary Goldfaden MD (a dermatologist for over 40 years!!!). 

My newest recommendation to recharge your unbalanced post-brunch skin? Goldfaden MD's Skin Balancing Mask! It was developed to revitalize, balance and nourish skin. It's a gel mask that is rich in botanicals and features a multi-peptide and enzyme blend that minimizes the appearance of pores and leaves skin feeling soft, looking smooth and appearing vibrant.

Its ingredients include Ginseng, Honey, Flower Extracts, Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E to infuse moisture, vitality and nourishment back into the skin.

I just take a dime-sized squeeze on my finger and rub a thin layer on my face for about 15 minutes. After rinsing with warm water, I already notice a difference in texture and brightness. It's the perfect kick-off to getting back into my usual skincare regime. It's as simple as using it 2-3 times per week, and you can really see a difference with continued use.

Dr. Gary Goldfaden MD says,

“Over indulging in the form of traveling, lack of sleep, poor eating habits (i.e. alcohol, sugar, fried foods), and too much sun/pollution, can wreak havoc on your complexion in the form of dehydration, fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and blotchy skin tone, to name a few.

The Skin Balancing Mask was created to provide an at-home solution for this multi-active treatment and offers the perfect skin pick-me-up and complexion rejuvenation after life gets in the way.

 The Skin Balancing Mask was inspired by my in-office professional balancing treatments, which includes a combination of microdermabrasion, vitamin/enzyme infusion and oxygen. This multidimensional treatment works to reduce the appearance of facial lines and uneven skin tone, all while providing skin with a plumping effect that results in a firmer, smoother glowing complexion.”

Knowing that the Skin Balancing Mask was so carefully created to be a solution for the exact problem I run into frequently really demonstrates how this product is so needed. My skin is ultra-sensitive to just about every product so I find comfort in knowing that not only is the Skin Balancing Mask doing its job, but also taking care of my skin and nourishing it in a very delicate way. It's like Dr. Goldfaden MD prescribed me the perfect product to use on my skin! Having his stamp of approval on a product definitely makes me feel more confident that not only will it work, but it will be super safe for my skin.

My 8 Tips and Regimen for Life Balance and Finding Creative Inspiration

A lot of people ask me frequently how I continue to produce content in the midst of the trials and tribulations of normal every day life: balancing 2 around the clock freelance gigs + 1 around the clock my personal business (aka The Gilded Bellini) + somehow fitting in a sliver of a social life and most importantly, self-care. One of both the pros and cons of being a freelancer is that there is never really any down time. There's always work to be done, new content to be created, tight deadlines and a whole lot more. 

I have always been the kind of person to struggle with being bogged down, almost making myself sick with stress ever since I was very little. As I have gotten older I have learned to manage it a lot better as life has taken its course and I've developed more as an adult and grown into my career. 

Don't get me wrong; I am constantly tired and frequently find myself running on fumes - I am lucky if I get a good night's sleep because there's that much work to be done and that simply runs overtime. However, I've learned to embrace it and have found ways around looking at the hardships of the situation and just really acknowledge that it is a part of my lifestyle. I've learned ways for myself to work around the craziness and build time in my schedule and in my mind to not make excuses and dig deep for inspiration to be successful in my 3 jobs and in my personal life. 

I know there are a lot of people who juggle a bunch of different things at once and often struggle with finding a balance with it all. Here are some things that I incorporate into my daily life to make things easier and that always gives me the drive, inspiration and ideas to create!

1. READ BOOKS AND MAGAZINES

I read things that not only interest me, but that may help me to develop potential ideas for stories on my site. For me, it's super important to be in the know about different food, fashion, beauty and lifestyle trends not only just in Southern California, but around the US because there is always something new I can look into and bring to the table here on TGB. I also love to read books that are based on true stories about entrepreneurs. I'll never forget - when I was interning back in 2013 for a big PR firm, my boss said the number one thing to do was READ, especially the newspaper. It 100% sets you up for success if you are aware. Aside from reading just to stay informed, it can really get your mind off of something that is stressing you out or bothering you.

2. YOUR PICK: WAKE UP EARLY OR STAY UP LATE

If you're like me, you may do both. But I would think the healthier option is to pick one or the other. That way, if you wake up early you may be able to get what you need to do in the morning before work (like writing, even drinking your coffee extremely leisurely, work out...). If you sleep in a bit, make it a point to stay up a little later to get your other stuff done that you weren't able to do all day. I find that my most inspirational times of the day are very early or very late. Embrace the free time you have in either of those timeframes.

3. MAKE TIME TO WORK OUT

Literally, if I do not work out I am not only sluggish but very irritable. ALL DAY. It's so important to just take an hour for yourself to focus on your health. Sweat. Don't think about all you have to do. Because if your body isn't feeling good, it is guaranteed you will definitely not do your best all day. 

4. SWITCH LOCATIONS

I start feeling really uninspired if I continue to work from the same place over and over again. If you have the ability to work from a coffee shop or a library or on your patio or even in a park, do it! Even if it's only on the weekends. Something about being in a different space sparks the creative juices.

5. PEOPLE WATCH

People watching is especially fun and interesting to do when you're in a big city. Just by doing so you can pick up on what people are interested in, how their day is going, what kind of coffee they're drinking, what they're currently reading. It's free inspiration. People are the source for my inspiration here on TGB constantly. I want to know what people are interested in and create content in my own way to share with those people. I want to start a conversation with them and bring people together. People watching is one of the simplest ways to find creative inspiration - you just have to dig a little past the surface level. This is another great way to just escape for a few minutes and drift off mentally!

6. BUY A NEW OUTFIT

It's no question that buying a new outfit makes you feel good. It makes you feel fresh, new and polished. That feeling completely translates over into finding creative inspiration. My favorite color to wear for some fresh inspo? White! I particularly love this pretty lace "Call Me Maybe" two-piece set from Ali & Jay. The design is super feminine and really helps to exude confidence.

7. TAKE A WALK RIGHT BEFORE SUNDOWN WITHOUT ANY TECHNOLOGY

This has become one of my all time favorite things to do. It is so relaxing. Something about it is even more relaxing that taking a walk early in the morning. Everything is a bit cooler and relaxed. I always use that time to disconnect from the day, after going non-stop for so many hours. Even if this isn't the complete end of your day, it is a really nice break. I try to either not take my phone with me or just tuck my phone in my pocket for the duration of my walk. Not only does it give your brain a break, but also your eyes and your neck too.   

8. MAKE TIME TO GET COFFEE WITH A FRIEND

Or tea or whatever you prefer! There is nothing like taking an hour and just talking about anything and everything, and if you're really good friends, you don't even have to talk at all! You know what I mean - you can sit quietly and just enjoy the moment and it's still fun. It's hard to make time for even your family when you are so busy with work but it's important to do so every so often. Friends even can help you come up with ideas! Collaboration is key.

All of these things at the end of day create a portion of a life balance because even though they can certainly be connected to what you do, each of these tips can be a pleasant escape!

Photography by: Rebecca Gnasso