Summerfest: A Collaboration with PHL Fashion Bloggers

Don't we all fantasize about packing up and moving to a new city where nobody knows your name? I certainly do, but there are just a few things that tug at my heartstrings enough to keep me in (and/or around) Philly. One of those things is the kind, supportive, and crazy talented group of bloggers here. It's easy to feel alienated when you're in the throes of the elusive "hustle" in your mid-20's so any excuse to get together with like-minded folks is a good one. Anyone who can help you forget about life's troubles for a couple of hours is worth holding on to, which is why these ladies are so special. 

Our theme for this month was simple: summer fun. We all found that sweet spot between comfortably casual and effortlessly chic. It would appear that a lot of 70's trends are alive and well in these photos, which I am very into. 

Old City Staycation (With The Ladies.)

Thanks Kimpton for sponsoring this post!

When "they" tell you that your first year of marriage is going to be a doozy, "they're" not kidding. (You know, the proverbial THEY.) Mine has certainly been no exception. Pretty much as soon as we got back from our honeymoon, it's been nonstop craziness. I left my job, he started a new job, I joined a tech startup, we're doing all sorts of odd-jobs so we don't have to live in a box on the street; it's wild. In midst of all that, how am I supposed to have any girl time? Girl time is important, especially for creatively-minded ladies, which is why I HAD to get some blog girls together for a little staycation in Old City. The folks at the Hotel Monaco were THRILLED to have us and we were just as excited to get to stay in such a beautiful place. I needed it. Long live girl time.

Sustainable Shopping with Greene Street

Thank you Greene Street for sponsoring this post!

Who isn't at least thinking about shopping ethically and eco-consciously lately? Like many of you, it's something I've thought about but didn't know where to start. Luckily, my friend Alli at Greene Street invited me to come to the store on South Street to play dress up and learn a little bit about fashion and sustainability.

Spring Around Philly

I've been getting SO many questions from readers who say they're heading to Philly this season. It's exciting because Philly is a fantastic city with so much to offer to visitors. Now that the weather has been getting warmer, I've found myself wandering around like a tourist because I just love this city so much. Since I've been getting so many questions and the last time I did a guide was in the fall, I figured I'd do another one. Once again, this is NOT an exhaustive list. I know I'm going to miss some things. I'm only human. Bear with me and if there's something that desperately needs to make its way into the guide, let me know in the comments! 

NYE with Chloe Johnston

This year is almost over and all I have to say is "good riddance." I can't wait to ring in the new year like I've never rang in the new year before. (Except I'll be working overnight... so I'll be doing it from my desk.) I was kind of bummed about not being able to dress up for NYE so it was kismet when Chloe Johnston asked me to put together some looks, I was all in.

Pear White Mocha and a Cozy Sweater

I don't know why it took me so long to check out One Shot in NoLibs but I FINALLY did and I think I've found my new favorite coffee jawn. Perfectly-brewed joe in a cozy little space: what else do you need in a coffee shop? 

Bow Ties Make me Brave

Temple University's Fashion and Business school asked me to come to one of their meetings as a guest speaker. As soon as I sent that "YES!" email, I started digging in my closet to find an adequate ensemble. I mean, these are fashionable students. The bar is high. I tried to go edgy... and realized I just looked like Steve Buscemi in 30 Rock. (Those few years between me and the college crowd are starting to get a little noticeable.) I tried "fancy, but not too fancy" and ended up just looking like a sad bridesmaid. I decided to go with a classic E.M. outfit-- because you really can't beat the classics. I got dressed and headed out only a few minutes late. The outfit was the least of my worries though... it was time to get over my biggest fear: Public. Speaking.

Feels Like Fall

The weather here in Philly has been wonderful. It's that perfect time of year when it's cold enough to wear boots... but Spruce Street Harbor Park is still open. It's a perfect instance of summer and fall harmoniously blending into one another-- and I'm not planning on wasting a single moment of it.

Farm to City Saturdays

Ah, Saturday mornings. Ah, late summer. I cherish these times. I don't get to Rittenhouse Square much in the height (and heat) of summer but once September hits and those brisk late-summer breezes start flowing, it's my favorite place. If you're one for local produce, fancy baked goodies, and fresh blooms there's a really great farmer's market every weekend that's absolutely worth checking out. This weekend, I made my own bouquet, which I triumphantly toted around the square. (And on a little coffee date with my bestie.)

Autumn Around Philly

Fall makes for such typical blog fodder. Everybody loves it and it's just so Instagrammable. The moody hues, the oversized scarves, the hand-warming hot beverages... it's disgustingly picturesque. I know it gets played out very quickly so I'm going to try to get my "OMG AUTUMN!" posts out of the way early on. With (allegedly) millions flocking to Philly in a few short weeks to say "hello" to Pope Francis when he stops by, I figured I'd make a mini list of some of my favorite fall(ish) activities. This is by no means an all-inclusive list so be sure to keep checking back!

Galentine's Day

I had the pleasure of hanging out with some Philly bloggers and store owners for a little Galentine's shindig earlier this week. It was a blast but the best part is that we're doing it again this weekend and you're invited! If you're local, come join us for Spodee cocktails, an ADORABLE craft from Sue of Giant Dwarf, sweets, and lots of laughter. If you're not local... hey, could be worth the trip... possibly? 

Saturday, February 8th   |   5:00 - 8:00 PM

Starting at HOME, 1815 E. Passyunk Ave., ending at Occasionette, 1825 E. Passyunk Ave.

Hope to see you there!

xo,

e.m.

Coffee in Fishtown

Over the past year or so, I've fallen in love with my home city of Philadelphia. I always took it for granted, which I feel happens to people and their hometowns quite often. It's a shame, really. There are all of these wonderful, small pockets of culture and color and life. There are so many delicious regional delicacies, as well as their equally-splendiferous vegan counterparts. So much history and vibrancy. So many bearded men in flannels riding fixed-gear bikes and many a swoon to be had. Oh, and we have the most devoted sports fans, hands down. I ❤ PHL. 

xo,

e.m.

p.s. These pictures are taken from Rocket Cat Cafe in Fishtown. These photos don't do it much justice (it was so busy!) but it's so cozy inside. I'm hoping to share more of my favorite local coffee shops in hopes that some of you lovely readers will come to Philadelphia and visit. (Ya know, for those beautiful bearded men and whatnot.)

Cake Shop

I've decided that I need to start sharing some of my favorite small businesses here on the blog. I'm lucky to live in a part of the country that gets a LOT of tourism. I'm also lucky to have a group of readers who are from all over the world. Knowing that some of you could possibly be coming to visit my neck of the woods at some point, I'd love to make some suggestions of where to visit while on your trip. Having said that, I present to you: Cake Shop. 

I've loved this place ever since my band played here back in high school. Now that I'm older (and legal) and can fully appreciate it, I'm going to go ahead and call it my favorite spot. Ever. Where else can you find a bar, sandwiches, coffee, and amazing vegan cakes in one place? Quite literally all of my favorite things in one cozy location. And, not only do they have a fantastic playlist for background music in the cafe area, but the downstairs is a venue with lots of great live music. If you're planning a vacation to NYC soon, take a trip down to Ludlow Street and stop by. Grab a slice of vegan red velvet, sit by the window, people-watch, and feel like a local.

xo,

e.m.