Holiday

June 8, 2020

Fathers Day Favorites

joe’s tee + shorts | hayden’s top | harper’s dress | houston’s top + pants || planters

Would you believe me if I told you Father’s Day is less than 2 weeks away?! I swear these spring + summer months are flying by!! It is no secret how obsessed we are with Joe around here. He works so hard for our family and when he is around, we all can’t get enough. If you know Joe, you know he is like a big kid and always the fun parent, constantly making us laugh! We love any reason to celebrate him!! He is super laid back and not a big gift guy, so shopping for him is both the easiest and the hardest, if that makes sense! But today I rounded up some of our go to favorite Fathers Day finds from years past, as well as a few new ones we are planning to surprise him with this year!

:: TRIED + TRUE FAVORITES ::

All of the items above are things that we have gifted Joe, my dad, father in law, or brother in laws in the past and they LOVE! You can read why we love each below.

:: CAR DETAIL

Who doesn’t love a fresh, clean, like new car?! Blake from Fresh Detail has been coming to detail my van for a couple years now and I have never seen better. His attention to detail is out of this world! And the best part is, they come to you!! It would make the perfect gift for your hubby to enjoy!

:: DATE NIGHT GIFT CARD

As we get older, gifting can be a little trickier. We kind of already have a lot of what we “want”, and really what we crave most is time together. That is why if you know me, you know I love gifting experiences. And that goes for Joe too! I love the idea of gifting a date night gift card. It could be for something as simple as dinner or your favorite dessert, or you could do something like top golf or trying something new together.

:: HAT

Just like you can never go wrong with accessories for a girl, you can’t go wrong with a hat for a guy. A hat is a great no brainer, especially with summer here and trying to stay protected from the sun.

:: MASSAGE GUN

One of our favorite things to do together is a couples massage. It doesn’t get more relaxing than that. But with things a little different in the world right now, why not bring the massage home? I have heard so many rave reviews about this massage gun and how great it is for those tight muscles. If your husband is a major runner or fitness buff, this is for sure the gift for him!

:: YETI COOLER

This cooler was our gift to Joe last year and it was such a hit! It is totally the gift that keeps on giving and we have all loved it! We use it for traveling, baseball games, even backyard fun. Highly recommend it.

:: PORTABLE CHARGER

This very charger has been featured in more gift guides over the years than I can count, and it probably will be for years to come because it 100% is the gift for literally anyone!! It is amazing and we love it so much we actually have 3-4. It can charge your phone I think up to 7 times before needing to be charged and is such a great peace of mind to have with you in the car or anywhere really. If you are stumped on what to get the guy that is hard to buy for, this will be a win.

:: SWIMSUIT

Summer is here and that means swimming! Whether you are spending your days by the pool like us, or love to go boating or to the beach, a swimsuit is another easy fool proof gift for Fathers Day!

:: HYDROFLASK

Everyone drinks water, so again you can’t go wrong with this tried + true Fathers Day favorites. We love these water bottles so much in our family that we each have our own. It keeps your drink icy cold pretty much all day long, so it is great for on the go or long days of watching kids sports.

:: SHOES

Girls aren’t the only ones that love a good pair of new shoes! Summer tends to bring out the more active side of all of us with getting out running or getting in shape and a great pair of new quality shoes are the perfect Fathers Day gift!

:: HEADPHONES + AIRPODS

As a mom during quarantine, you already know that sometimes the best gift you can get is the gift of peace and quiet for a minute, am I right?! These bose headphones will give them just that. A little serenity from the craziness of life to just enjoy the latest podcast or music they are loving. Another great option for more on the go and less relaxing are airpods. I love mine to help keep me hands free and multi-tasking,

:: WALLET

Last but not least on the tried and true Fathers Day favorites is a wallet. It is such a good investment that everyone uses. My favorite way to gift a wallet is to fill it with gift cards to some of their favorites! Makes it a little more exciting! I got one of these wallets for Joe this year and can’t wait to give it to him. They are such amazing quality and look so high end. You can use code KAILEE20 for 20% off and orders over $25 ship free!

joe’s tee + shorts | hayden’s top | harper’s dress || similar rug + table + vase + greenery

:: OUT OF THE BOX IDEAS ::

:: CARILOHA PILLOW

I’ve shared these a million times before, and that is because they are the perfect gift for anyone. They are the most comfortable pillow ever. I love that they are customizable, so you can make it fit your personal sleep preference. You can always use code KW to score 20% off anything on the site!

:: CLEAN SIMPLE EATS PROTEIN POWDER

If you know us, you know of our love for Clean Simple Eats Protein Powder. It is the only protein we have tried that actually tastes good!! If you’ve got a guy that loves a good protein shake, or is into fitness, he is going to love their protein powder!

:: G2G

Along the same lines as the protein powder are these protein bars. The perfect snack for on the go. Our whole family loves them and they are a great idea to add to your gifts for your guy. The Chocolate PB is our personal favorite. Use code KAILEE for 20% off!

:: BIG TICKET ITEMS ::

Last but not least, we also had a few more big ticket items that would make perfect gifts. The best part about these options is they actually end up being a gift for the whole family, which is a great bonus!! Who doesn’t like to treat yo self a little too!

:: TRAEGER GRILL

If there is one gift that will benefit your whole family for years and years, it is a Traeger Grill. It is amazing as a grill for all those yummy meats and veggies, but what a lot of people don’t know is it basically like an outdoor oven. You can make anything from pizza to desserts on it. I love following @kristinandrus for amazing recipes! I promise it is the perfect manly Fathers Day gift they will love that you might love even more.

:: TV

A tv is another splurge gift that the whole family can benefit from. We love having fun movie nights together. I got this new frame tv from Joe for Mother’s Day and think it would make a great Fathers Day gift.

:: APPLE WATCH

Last but not least is an Apple Watch. I’ll be honest, when I first got mine I didn’t get the hype. But now I love it so much!! It keeps me much more active because I know it is tracking things for me, helps me keep things organized in my day with reminders, and keeps me off my phone a lot because I can just check notifications on my watch. Highly recommend!!

. . .

I hope this Father’s Day Roundup is helpful!! I’d love to know your favorite gifts to give the men in your life!

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Lifestyle

June 6, 2020

Chocolate Toffee Pie

image via

This past weekend over on Instagram I shared that Hayden and I were making our favorite Chocolate Toffee Pie for dessert. You guys, I can’t even begin to tell you how delicious it is!! And how crazy + easy too! We got the recipe from our friends and have been hooked ever since! It makes a perfect summer dessert!

:: CHOCOLATE TOFFEE PIE

– INGREDIENTS –

Two packets of Graham Crackers

6 TBS Melted Butter

1/8 Cup Sugar

2 packages of chocolate instant pudding mix

2 1/4 cup milk

1 cup of Cool Whip

2 Heath or Skor Bars broken into small pieces

– INSTRUCTIONS –

For the crust:

Blend the Graham Crackers into very fine crumbs. A food processor works great for this.

Mix crumbs with melted butter + 1/8 cup sugar.

Take a layer of the the Graham mixture and press into the bottom of a glass pie tin to your desired thickness. Don’t make it too thick. Put this in the freezer for 5 minutes to help the crust harden. Repeat the same thing for the side walls of the pie crust. Once the crust is done put it in the fridge.

For the pie filling:

In large bowl (Kitchen Aid works great) mix together two packages chocolate instant pudding + 2 1/4 cup milk. Then the pudding mixes together, you want it to be fairly thick, not as runny as regular pudding.

Once the pudding mix and milk are combined, mix in 1 cup of cool whip. **Make sure it has been thawed prior to adding or your mixture will turn runny.

Mix in about 3/4 of your Heath or Skor bar pieces (you’ll need the rest for the top)

When your mixture’s completed, take your crust from the fridge and scoop the filling into your Graham Cracker Crust.

Whipped Cream Topping :

Mix real heavy whipping cream and whip until it is your desired thickness. Add 1 tsp of vanilla extract and powdered sugar to taste. Apply a nice layer of the whipped cream topping on top of your pudding filling, and sprinkle the rest of your crunched up Heath/Skor Bar on top!

ENJOY!

. . .

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Beauty

May 28, 2020

My Quick Makeup Routine

my jumpsuit (similar here) + bracelets || similar vase + greenery || hand towel (use code KW)

Raise your hand if you feel like you have a never ending to do list, and your “you” routine kind of gets put on the back burner? I promise you are not alone. When I asked for content suggestions over on Instagram, so many of you asked for a quick makeup routine that you could tackle in under 10 minutes, and I have you covered!! Head over to my Instagram Highlight Bubble to get the full video tutorial on my quick makeup routine + then you can shop the links + read about why I love and use each below!

:: SKINCARE PREP

Before I start my quick makeup routine, I always try to get in a little bit of skincare prep. It keeps my skinning looking fresh and healthy, and only takes a couple minutes! If you know me, you know my go to is Tula and has been for years and years! You can always use code KAILEE on any of the products I share from them for 15% off!

:: Face Wash

I always start with my very favorite face wash from Tula. I have used this same wash for years and years and never get sick of it. You use the tiniest bit and it gets the job done. I love that it doesn’t leave your face feeling completely stripped dry when you use it, smells good, and lasts forever!! This is one product in my routine that is completely worth the price (especially with code KAILEE for 15% off) and I wouldn’t switch out for something cheaper.

:: Toner

Next up is my toner. Again this is a product I have used for years and years. If I find something that works I stick to it and don’t switch brands/products often. Why quit a good thing?! I LOVE LOVE the gel consistency of this toner. It goes on so smooth and easy. I use it to help balance out my skin tone + prep it for the rest of the products or makeup I’m going to apply. Another perk is that it helps remove any bits of makeup that I missed in washing my face. Again you can use code KAILEE to save 15%.

:: Moisturizer

If I had a number one skincare product I would give to every single person I know, it would be this moisturizer. It is AMAZING!!! Like the cleanser + toner, I’ve been using it for years and still stand by it. I love that it gives you such a moisturized soothed feeling without leaving that greasy shine some moisturizes give. It is full of probiotics + is like a super food for your face! I always make sure to have a few on hand so I never run out, and it is quickly becoming one of my favorite things to gift girlfriends. Code KAILEE will get you 15% off this one too!

:: Vitamin C Serum

The last skincare step I do is my Vitamin C Serum. It helps reduce + prevent fine lines, discoloration and wrinkles and is so good for your skin!

. . . SHOP MY SKINCARE FAVORITES . . .

. . .

:: QUICK MAKEUP FAVORITES

Ok now that skincare is done, I head into my quick makeup routine, which you’ll see the video tutorial of over on Instagram. I know the list below looks a little daunting, but every step is so quick and easy that I can get it done in under 10 minutes, kid distractions included!

:: Tinted Moisturizer

As you saw above in skincare prep, I mentioned the Tula moisturizer that I love and use a lot. Another moisturizer I switch off and use is this tinted moisturizer. It is my favorite to use when I only want a little color and sun protection and am skipping the rest of my routine, I have been leaning more towards this tinted moisturizer. I love that it is super lightweight, gives me a little bit of color, and number one that it has sunscreen!! For reference, I use the color 3W1Bisque.

:: Primer

Next step is my primer. I have been trying to find a good primer I love forever and this is it! It isn’t sticky or tacky at all and doesn’t make your makeup lay weird at all. It is the perfect prep for the rest of the products.

:: BB Cream

This BB Cream is my new favorite!! I can’t even explain to you how good it is. My favorite things about it are that it is buildable and has sunscreen in it. I love that you can still see your skin and it looks super natural, but if you want more coverage you can build up more. It is amazing!! I use the color Empowered. You can use code KAILEE for 10% off too!

:: Setting Powder

Next up is setting powder. This is a step a lot of people don’t do but this extra step is worth it. It takes aways the shiny look you often see on people and sets everything. Even if you skip the bb cream, I would do this step, because it takes away shine and pulls everything together. I use translucent.

:: Bronzer

After applying the setting powder, I like to use a bronzer. This is a step you could easily skip, but I like to add a little “tan” color to my face since I use the sunless tanner everywhere else. I love this bronzer because unlike most, it isn’t too orangey and it gives a nice natural tan look.

:: Blush orgasm blush nars

Another pop of color I like to add is blush. It is a great way to highlight your face and liven you up a little bit! My favorite is this one from Nars in the color Orgasm (sorry for the terrible name).

:: Brows

After I’ve finished all the steps above for my face, I head up to the eyes, starting with my brows. I love this brow wiz so much. It is so quick and easy to use!! It is a pencil that gives great hairlike strokes, that I just use to fill in any gaps. So quick and easy! I use the color Dark Brown.

:: Eyeshadow

Now let’s talk eyeshadow. Shadow has always been something that totally overwhelmed me!! Which color in which spot and all the steps involved just seemed like too much work. Until I tried Flekk eyeshadow. Their whole system is completely fool proof and I am LOVING it! The palette you get is labeled with numbers, in order of how you apply, with a picture of where to apply on the eyelid. It also comes with labeled brushes for each step! You can’t mess it up and the results look like you spent so much time on such a pretty eye look. LOVE!! You can use code Kailee for 20% off.

:: Finishing Powder

Now that I have basically everything applied, I go in with this Finishing Powder. The best way to describe it is like a filter for your face. It brightens and highlights but kind of blurs everything together giving you that perfect finished looked like a filter would. I use Medium.

:: Mascara + Primer

This is a step I’m still getting use to, but to finish off my eyes I go in with Primer + Mascara. I shared all about my favorites I tried and why in this post, but I promise you will LOVE this affordable duo! And if you are looking for a great serum to add some length, this is amazing and I have loved it.

:: Setting Spray

Since you took the time to do this makeup, you might as well do one more step to make it last all day for you, and that is the magic of a good setting spray. I personally love this one!

:: Lip Gloss goals

And last but not least LIP GLOSS! I am here to tell you not all lip glosses are created equal. I cannot stand a sticky tacky lip gloss. No thank you! But this gloss is not that! Not only is it the perfect color, but it is super moisturizing and not the slightest bit sticky. On days that I don’t have time for full makeup, I will put this on with mascara and tinted moisturizer and feel great! You will be hooked! Use code KAILEE for 10% off!

. . .

I hope these details + the video over on Instagram help freshen up your look and realize you do have the time to spruce yourself up a little bit everyday! I wanna know what your makeup favorites are too so share them here!

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Looks

May 22, 2020

Memorial Day Sales Worth Shopping This Weekend

harper’s swim suit || my jumpsuit + bracelets || couch + table

It is one of my favorite weekends of the year! This weekend has always kind of signaled that Summer is finally here, and you know how much I love that! I will say with the quarantine and school being so different it feels a lot different, but is still a weekend filled with family time I love so much! Memorial Day weekend is also known for its crazy good sales!! So today I put together a quick roundup of all the stores with sales I think are worth shopping this weekend + some of the deals you can snag at those sales!

:: SHOP OUR FAVORITE SALES BELOW ::

harper’s dress || my similar tee + jeans + bracelets
white bins | clear bins | metal baskets | pop seal containers (ALL ON SALE!)

:: THE CONTAINER STORE – up to 30% off

. . .

:: NORDSTROM – up to 60% off select items

. . . shop womens . . .

. . . shop kids . . .

. . .

harper’s swim suit || hunter’s swim top + bottom + sandals – ALL ON SALE!

:: COTTON ON KIDS – 30% – 50% off

. . . shop girls . . .

. . . shop boys . . .

. . .

:: GAP KIDS – 50% off EVERYTHING

. . . shop girls . . .

. . . shop boys . . .

. . .

:: CB2 – up to 40% off Outdoor Favorites

. . .

:: ABERCROMBIE – up to 60% off select items

. . .

We hope this round up helps you find the best deals you are in search of!! If you see any killer sales we need to know about, be sure to share!!

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Fashion

May 19, 2020

Teen Takeover: Affordable Swimsuits for Teens

hunter’s swim top + similar bottom (both buy one get one 50% off! ) | sandals + more affordable dupe

Hey Guys! It’s Hunter again, here for another Teen Takeover! I went through your topic requests over on my mom’s Instagram, and so many of you wanted a post on affordable swimsuits! So today I’m sharing some awesome swimsuits I found on my own that I love, and I know your teen will love too! And the best part is, they are all under $30!! We’ve got options from Target, Hollister, Cupshe, Amazon and Cotton On! Check them out below!

hunter’s swim top + similar bottom (both buy one get one 50% off! ) | sandals + more affordable dupe || harper’s swimsuit

:: MY FAVORITE AFFORDABLE SWIMSUITS ::

. . .

I love all these looks because they are full of bright colors + fun patterns, modest enough that they get my moms approval but are still great for tanning, and I feel comfortable moving/swimming in them!

I hope you loved this affordable swimsuits roundup, and it helps you find a look you love for Summer! Stay tuned for more Teen Takeovers coming soon!

photos : aubrey taiese

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Lifestyle

May 18, 2020

Family Favorite Recipe: Saucy Chicken

harper’s pajamas || my similar top + jeans || pots + pans | vase + cutting board

Is it just me, or do you constantly run out of ideas for dinner? I tend to stick to my same rotation for months on end and sometimes I just need something new!! That being said, there are a few family favorites on the list that I think we will never get sick of, and this Saucy Chicken is one of them! What the name Saucy Chicken lacks, it makes up for in amazing flavor! It is so dang good and so easy to throw together! Everyone in the family loves it too which is always a great bonus!

:: SAUCY CHICKEN

– INGREDIENTS –

Chicken Breasts

Monterey Jack Cheese

1-2 Cans Cream of Chicken Soup

Croutons

– INSTRUCTIONS –

Spray a 9 x 13 pan

Lay chicken breasts evenly throughout the pan

Cover chicken layer with shredded Monterey Jack Cheese

Pour 1-2 cans of Cream of Chicken Soup over the Cheese layer

Repeat another layer of shredded cheese.

Finish it off with a layer of crushed croutons covering the top.

Bake at 375 for 35-45 minutes

. . .

:: SHOP MY KITCHEN FAVORITES ::

I hope you love this Saucy Chicken as much as we do!! I’d love to hear some of your favorite recipes!

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Looks

May 15, 2020

Loungewear Looks We Love From Walmart

my jumpsuit + sandals

Raise your hand if you are still living for loungewear? Whether it’s comfy sweats or cozy jumpsuits, I am here for it, and it is not getting old! Haha! I feel like a lot of you, one of my top shopping searches has been for loungewear and I have been surprised at some of the places I have found some great options! One of those places is none other than Walmart!! From stinking cute sweat sets, to jumpsuits that are cozy enough for lounging, but super easy to dress up to go out (when we are more allowed), Walmart has some awesome pieces, so I thought I would put together a quick roundup for you today!

:: SPORTY LOUNGEWEAR

Sporty loungewear is one of my very favorite go to’s. I love that while it is so comfortable, it is even easier to “dress up” to go out. Pull your jogger legs up a little so they get a more fitted look, throw on some cute sneakers, and fix your hair and you are ready to tackle a day at the park with your people. It takes such little effort that it doesn’t feel like you are wasting money buying something you’d never leave the house in. Walmart has some great high end brands, including the Champion look I am wearing. I am loving these joggers too!

. . . SHOP MY FAVORITE SPORTY LOUNGEWEAR LOOKS . . .

. . .

my jumpsuit + sandals

:: VERSATILE JUMPSUITS

If you’ve been around here for a while, then it should come as no surprise to you that one of my favorite loungewear looks is a jumpsuit. They feel like pajamas, but give you the illusion that you actually took the time to put together an outfit. Haha. Again, I love that with the right shoes and accessories you can transition them to a girls night or date night look.

Walmart has SO many great jumpsuit options at amazing prices right now. My favorite is this one for only $27. It comes in so many great color options! And this one is a great option for a more day time look.

my jumpsuit

. . . SHOP MY FAVORITE JUMPSUITS FROM WALMART. . .

. . .

I hope you loved this fun loungewear roundup with Walmart! What are some of your favorite cozy pieces for Spring and Summer?

photos : aubrey taiese

in partnership with Walmart

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Lifestyle

May 14, 2020

Yummy Caramel Rolls

CARAMEL ROLLS

I’m pretty sure this picture speaks for itself, so if your mouth is watering you will want to keep reading! These caramel rolls are so so good! They have always been a favorite family recipe for when you need to indulge in a sweet craving, and I promise they won’t last long!

1 pkg Frozen Rhodes Rolls

2 Small Boxes Cook n Serve Vanilla Pudding

1 cup (2 sticks) Butter

2 Cups Brown Sugar

4 Tablespoons Milk

3 Teaspoons Cinnamon

Grease a 9 x 13 pan. Place 1/2 of the rolls in greased pan. Slightly soften butter and combine with remaining ingredients to create your caramel sauce. Pour sauce over your frozen rolls, and then top with remaining rolls.

Let rise for 3 hours. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. When done, flip over pan to display as shown with the gooey caramel sauce covering the top.

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Fashion

May 11, 2020

Teen Takeover: Top Trending Looks

hunter’s top (on sale for $10!) + shorts + hat + belt + sandals
budget friendly dupes: shorts – hat

A couple of weeks ago over on Instagram, I shared what a struggle it is to shop for teen girls and actually agree on what to get!! So many of you sent in messages agreeing, and asking us to share any of our finds! So after a lot of back and forth, and a pile of returns waiting for us, we finally found some great pieces we both love!! Which kind of feels like a miracle!! Our rules were no spaghetti straps, no belly showing, and no bum showing, which was shockingly hard! But instead of me walking you through what we found, we are putting the spotlight back on Hunter with a little Teen Takeover!! She is going to highlight her top favorite trending looks for teens right now!

hunter’s tank + shorts + sandals // budget friendly dupes: tank – shorts

:: CUT OFF SHORTS

I really love a good frayed short, especially with distressing. But my mom doesn’t like a ton of distressing if its too high or close to the crotch area. (which I get) They are super easy short to pair with anything. Honestly I just really like the whole look and style of them. I also own some rolled up shorts…as you’ll see below. I thought these were my favorites + looked best on me. My mom on the other hand said she liked the cut offs better and now I’m realizing she was totally right! So girls listen to your moms because know… I wish I would have listened.

. . .

:: TANK TOPS

These were really hard for me to find because the fact that I am a littler taller. All I see girls wearing are spaghetti strap or crop tops and I really wanted the same, but rules. After ordering from quite a few stores we finally some that both my parents and myself could agree on. These tanks aren’t too long or too short and the straps are thicker so it was a go with my mom.

. . .

hunter’s skirt + tee (both under $20)

:: GRAPHIC TEES

I really love graphic tees!! I honestly loved them on my mom, so I thought I should try them and am now obsessed. You can pair them with a dressy skirt (which I learned from my mom) or leggings, jeans or cut offs. Basically anything and everything. I love that there are so many different ones to choose from. We have found a lot of cute ones here + here at really good price points. Also don’t forget you can tie them in a knot if they are too long and bulky or tuck them in all the way or do a half tuck. So play around with how you style them.

. . .

hunter’s sandals + other fun colors here + here + here // affordable dupe here + here

:: BIRKENSTOCKS

Oh my gosh!! These are my absolute favorite sandals!! They totally fit to your foot. You can get them in a regular width or narrow fit. Whatever fits your foot best. Also you can get nice leather ones, colored waterproof ones. They come in sooooo many different colors. I personally am getting the black waterproof ones for summer, because you can wear them where ever and don’t have to worry about getting them dirty or wet when you go out to the pool. They also have knock off ones at Target that my friends got last year and the white color didn’t last very long or hold up. So maybe think about getting the darker colors if you go that route.

. . .

We hope you loved this Hunter Teen Takeover! It was so much fun for us, that we are thinking about making it a more regular occurrence. If that is something you would love, let us know what topics you want her to cover in the comments or over on Instagram!

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Beauty

May 8, 2020

All things Sunless Tanners

Happy Thursday!! We officially made it to April!! While Utah’s weather is still being a little bit hormonal with the snow and sunshine, we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and starting to shed the layers. Which means we are going to be showing some skin that sure hasn’t seen the sun in a while, and that can be scary! Am I right?! There is just something about feeling tan that gives you that boost of confidence. It really helps you feel a little more on your A game. And since I have tried my fair share of allllll things tanning options, I thought we would talk all things sunless tanners today! Check out some of my tried + true tips + favorites below!

So let’s get started! Raise your hand if you are completely overwhelmed with all of the sunless tanner options out there? I swear I hear about a new one every day!! I have tried so so many, but want to share my favorites with you and why they make my top tanner list.

. . . TOP 2 SUNLESS TANNER FAVORITES . . .

loving tan bronzing mousse || st tropez express bronzing mousse or here on major sale!

:: ST TROPEZ SELF TAN EXPRESS BRONZING MOUSSE + LOVING TAN DELUXE BRONZING MOUSSE

Both the st tropez mousse and the loving tan mousse options are gold when it comes to sunless tanners. I have been rotating between the two and loving them both. They give such a good dark quality color while still looking natural. They are both a mousse so they go on evenly relatively easy, aren’t streaky, and it is easy to see where you are applying it.

. . . BEST INSTANT TAN . . .

body blur skin finish (in latte)

:: VITA LIBERATA BODY BLUR

This stuff still just blows my mind. It is perfect for those times where you didn’t really plan ahead and need an amazing instant tan, if you don’t plan on getting wet. Think family pictures or a night out. It gives the most gorgeous color with almost a shimmer to it. It doesn’t stain your hands at all so you won’t be left with awkward tanning hands, but it can rub off a little on your clothes so use caution. My biggest tip to avoid that and really get the best color is to mix it with a little bit of lotion. It helps dilute the color a little bit and gives you such an even application. I am OBSESSED with this stuff now!

. . . MY RUNNER UPS . . .

st tropez spray tan || banana boat tanning lotion || face drops || st tropez travel kit

:: NORVELL SOLUTION WITH SPRAY TAN MACHINE (darkest tan)

First up is my absolute favorite of all the tanners! It is the “hardcore professional” method of a spray tan machine. This method can be intimidating to a lot of people, but I promise it is really not at all. And if you can get your husband on board to help with the harder to reach areas, you will be sold on going this route! I use this machine BUT I pair it with this solution. It is the highest quality you can get, and actually what they use on you if you were to go in to a salon and get it done. As far as color goes, you will get the darkest longest lasting tan with this method too. If I’m just going to be at home and not in and out of the water a lot, this method will last me about a week. You can buy one of these tents to spray in, but I just do it in my shower, which makes for super easy clean up! BUT… DO NOT USE THIS ON YOUR FACE. It will go SUUUUUPER dark, and I’ve shared lots of much better face friendly options below.

:: ST TROPEZ TRAVEL LOTION KIT

When things get back to normal and we all start to travel again, this gem is something you will want in your suitcase. When it comes to a beach vacation, your tan is definitely not going to last as long as being at home. You are in and out of the pool and ocean constantly, which usually adds more showering too. Lots of water equals faster fading tan. The machine above is somewhat compact and could easily be brought in your suitcase to give you a redo on your tan, but I just didn’t love the hassle. Insert this travel size gem of tanners. It is absolutely perfect to use on day 3-4 after your spray tan when it has started to fade to help maintain. I love it on its own as well for a super classic natural look that isn’t too dark.

:: FACE DROPS

Besides the contour method I’ll show in the video, these drops are my go to of the tanners for giving your face a natural tan look. I don’t like the spray tan on my face because it can get out of hand dark VERY quickly. With your face you are going to want full control over how tan it looks. I use one drop of the dark option just mixed in with my favorite moisturizer (use code KAILEE for 15 % off ). I love that it is buildable so if one drop isn’t giving you the color you want you can do one more little drop instead of a huge drastic starting point.

:: BASIC DRUG STORE LOTION

When it comes to easy peasy fool proof tanners, this lotion is AMAZING. It is the only lotion option that I’ve tried that goes on evenly and gives you a non-orangey natural looking tan.

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Now that I’ve told you the details and pros for each of my very favorite tanners, lets talks tips to getting the most out of your tan. Because if you are going to take the time to do it, you want it to last!!

:: 6 TIPS to help your tan last longer ::

#1 EXFOLIATE AND SHAVE THE NIGHT BEFORE

Exfoliating before doing any form of spray tan is HUGE when it comes to making it last. You want that nice soft fresh skin to work with to absorb the tan the most evenly across your body. I always try to exfoliate the night before I’m going to apply the tan. It is close enough to be effective, but not right before so my pores are wide open and more sensitive.

#2 MOISTURIZE YOUR DRIEST AREAS

Some people will tell you you need to apply lotion every where you are going to apply the tanner. Personally I don’t take the time to do that. I apply lotion to all the places that I know my skin is the driest. For most people that will be your elbows, knees, hands, and feet. You want to make sure you are evenly moisturized. That way the color is absorbed evenly and you don’t end up with extra dark areas!

# 3 APPLY YOUR TANNER AT NIGHT

I always always apply my tanner right before bed if possible, and then rinse when I wake up, even on the express options. It gives you a full nights sleep for it to really soak in and get you the best color. By doing it at night, you are also giving yourself the longest period of avoiding water. You won’t have to worry about needing to wash your hands or do the dishes and have your hands end up a different color than the rest of you.

But remember, no matter what people tell you, alllll the tanner options are going to transfer at least a little bit before you rinse. I have a pair of “tanning pajamas” that are long sleeve/long pants and silky that I wear after applying. I am completely covered so it won’t transfer to bedding, and I don’t have to worry about ruining multiple pairs of pajamas.

#4 GO EASY ON YOUR FACE

I personally avoid using a self tanner all over my face. To me it looks like your face is dirty, and tends to highlight the wrong areas, making you look like you have a dark unibrow or mustache. As I show in the video on IG, my tip for your face is to use the tanner as more of contour. I will just take a makeup brush, dab on the tanning mitt I used, and contour with the tanner around outside of my forehead, neck and a little on my nose. That way you are giving a more natural look and not going to dark or dirty looking on your face. I will usually use this same brush method for my hands too to avoid crazy orange tan hands.

#5 RINSE, NOT SCRUB OFF

This one might sound a little obvious to some, but it is so key in getting the most out of your tan. When you are ready to shower after your application setting period, don’t think of it as a normal shower. There should be no scrubbing or washing involved. It is basically just the last rinse cycle your car goes through at the car wash. You don’t want to scrub off all the hard work!!

#6 MOISTURIZE

The biggest tip to getting the most of your tan is to moisturize!!! As soon as you’ve done your rinse cycle, get alll the moisturizing you can in. This helps to lock in the color longer and get the best tone out of your color!

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I hope these details and tips help you feel ready to take on your tan with ease! If you are a first timer, I promise it’s not as hard as it looks. You are going to LOVE the results!!

photos : aubrey taiese

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Beauty

May 7, 2020

Let’s Talk Mascara

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One of the unexpected 1st world problems with the stay at home order, is a lot of women out there suddenly not being able to keep up with their eyelash extensions! Are you one of them? I for sure am! And while I am well aware how trivial this is in the grand scheme of things, it is still something on the long list of new things we are all figuring out together! So I did a little experiment for us all and tried A LOT of new mascara and serums to find the best of the best to share here with you!

So like I said, I have had eyelash extensions for years. I think we were going on 7 years before this all happened, so I haven’t bought mascara in a LONG TIME! I was actually kind of surprised by all the new varieties and selection there was with regular, volume, waterproof, colors, serums, primers, I could go on and on! So below I’ve narrowed it down to my top mascara pick in a few categories and why I love each of them!

shine fiber mascara (code KAILEE for 10% off) | voluminous false fiber lashes

:: BEST FIBER MASCARA

First up, lets talk fiber mascara. This was one of the “new to me” options since I bought mascara 7 years ago. The concept of fiber mascara is the same as the original option, but it is filled with tiny fibers that stick to your lashes to help them appear more full and longer. I tried quite a few of these and the concept just isn’t my favorite. That being said, I know a lot of people LOVE the way these look on their lashes, and out of all that I tried, there were two definite front runners. First is the Shine Fiber Mascara. It is a 2 step process, and for me gave the cleanest + fullest look to your lashes. The other option I liked was the Voluminous False Fiber Lashes. Shine wins my top vote, but I did love that the false fiber lashes is only one step, making the process easier and faster!

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voluminous lash paradise + voluminous lash paradise primer

:: BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK MASCARA

If you want to got the quick and easy amazon prime affordable route, this combo is your dream team. It is INCREDIBLE!! I had so many people recommend this mascara and they were not wrong!! It makes your lashes look amazing and is such a great price point. It is not chunky or clumpy at all and gives you such great length. I loved it so much more than even the high end brands I tried out, but the key is definitely in using the primer. It is the secret weapon that I personally think makes this mascara so great.

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too faced mascara

:: BEST SPLURGE WORTHY MASCARA

If you are willing to go for a splurge, this mascara was my favorite of the higher end top dollar brands. It is definitely not drugstore pricing, but it was the only one I felt was worth the money. And the thousands of reviews on every site that sells it agree. I think its biggest selling point is actually the hour glass brush. It helps separate the lashes better to give them all a ton of volume and curl. I really liked this one for a splurge option.

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BabeLash Serum code Kailee20 for 20 % off | Grande Lash MD Serum

:: SERUMS

Ok now that we’ve talked mascaras, lets talk serum. If you’ve had lash extensions, chances are it is because you are wishing your natural lashes were fuller or longer. A lash serum will be your new best friend. This is going to come as maybe an unpopular opinion to some, but I honestly think all serums are created pretty equally if you use the regularly as directed. I’ve used a few different ones over the years and saw similar results in each. One tip I will give, is if you can help it, I recommend starting your serum a few weeks before you take your lashes off. So they have already had a chance to start growing.

My personal favorite serum is this Babe Lash. It gave me results a little faster than any others I’ve tried, and it is quick and easy to us. You can use code KAILEE20 for 20% off! Grande Lash MD is another great option that I have heard/seen great results from.

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. . . SHOP MY FAVORITE MASCARAS, PRIMERS, AND SERUMS . . .

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:: MY GO TO DAILY PROCESS

Now that you know my favorites I just wanted to share my go to process and what has worked for me. I start by washing my face in the morning with my Tula Cleanser (code KAILEE for 15% off) to get off any excess makeup. I don’t use a makeup remover or anything fancier than that. Once the my face and lashes are clean, I will actually apply my serum. I know a lot of people think you can only do overnight. But this is a great option if you forget at night or just to remember a little easier. While I do the rest of my makeup routine, the serum is able to dry, until I get to my lashes which are usually last in the line up. I will then apply my primer followed by my mascara and we are good to go!

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I hope this mascara and serum round up was helpful for any of you on the hunt for some eyelash help! If you have a favorite I should try, please let me know in the comments!

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Family

April 29, 2020

Social Distancing Service Ideas

harper’s dress || houston’s pajamas || planter + wreath

Last week I mentioned that one of the best ways I have learned to turn our attitudes around at my house, especially my kids, is by serving others! There is just something about taking the focus off of you and your problems for a little while and focusing on others that brings such a positive light in to your day. When I shared this, I asked for any of your social distancing service ideas and you had some great ones!! So you guys can try them out too, I’ve listed them all below!

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:: Order surprise gifts/pick me ups and have them shipped directly to their house. Maybe your family’s favorite card game for friends, or your favorite lip gloss for a girlfriend!

:: Make care packages to drop off at the nursing home

:: Quick phone calls to check in with those you love!

:: Make snack bags for nurses to share with coworkers. Things like protein bars, gum, water flavor packets, m & m’s, etc.

:: Drop off bulk snacks at the hospital or clinics for medical team since they aren’t getting much of a break.

:: Drop off Mason Jars with fresh flowers and a bow around it to brighten someones day. This would be great at the nursing home too!

:: Make craft packets for low income families with children. It can be as simple as putting together a packet with coloring books, crayons, markers, play doh, anything!

:: Drop off groceries and supplies for elderly neighbors.

:: Draw or paint pictures for grandparents or elderly neighbors.

:: Call a lonely grandparent or elderly friend just to say hi.

:: Teach elderly parents and friends how to use delivery services, drive thru pickups, and grocery pick up.

:: Sign up with local hospital to drop off lunch or dinner for staff.

:: Send a postcard to loved ones.

:: Sew masks for those in need. I taught my kids to sew so they can help!

:: Good old fashioned snail mail to friends at school, teachers, family.

:: Donate food for the homeless.

:: Double up your dinner recipe and gift the extra portion to friends and neighbors.

:: Doorbell ditch your favorite treat or snack to neighbors and friends.

:: Go in with your neighbors to donate a bunch of snacks to a local clinic or hospital.

:: Make thank you signs and posters for the mailman.

:: Drop off a grocery gift card for a family in need.

:: Sidewalk chalk positive messages and love notes in front of your house or on a friend/neighbors driveway to let them know you are thinking of them.

:: Deliver mobile meals for those in need.

:: Drop off a small bag of necessities to those in need (toilet paper, flour, bread, diapers etc.)

:: Make “A Hero Lives Here” signs to stick in the yard of healthcare workers.

:: Deliver diapers/wipes/formula to your local child welfare agency!

:: Make posters to put in the windows or around a nursing home.

:: Offer to go to the store for a neighbor or elderly friend.

:: Drop off craft ideas your kids loved to their friends to try to help give mom a break.

:: Write letters to teenagers in addiction recovery facilities.

:: Deliver oranges to friends and family

:: Make cards and treats to drop off to elderly.

:: Be a donut fairy. Buy boxes of donuts and doorbell ditch them to your friends and neighbors.

:: Drop meals off to any healthcare or grocery workers you know.

:: Order cookie delivery for a friend to brighten their day

:: Doorbell ditch teachers to thank them for everything they do.

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I hope these social distancing service ideas are helpful and help you to bring some positivity and light to those around you! Service is always the best way to have a better day!!

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