This travel guide has been a long time coming, but it's finally here! Please excuse my delay, we did so many activities and putting them to paper took me forever. But, I promise, this post is worth the wait.

I've been to Austin before, but it was ages ago and I didn't really know what to expect. I've been to Texas maybe 3 times in my life, so I went in eyes wide open. This bachelorette party was for my girlfriend, Kate. We met in college when we were both working for Pepperdine's magazine. She's one of the best people I know and I felt honored to be invited to spend the weekend celebrating her.

One of my favorite moments with Kate was one road-trip back to Arizona from CA. First, we stuff our faces with sushi in Laguna and then headed back to AZ to surprise my family. We stopped at every tourist trap on 1-10 between LA and Phoenix. We took way too many stupid pictures, ate beef jerky that was the most random meats (like ostrich? gross), and a trip that should take about 6 hours, took 10. It was so much fun.

Our weekend in Austin was so full of laughs, delicious cocktails, old school beer pong and great meals. Plus, thousands of photos and a group text that is still active today. Shout-out to Kate's sis, Jessica for planning such an incredible weekend. It was one I will not forget.

Oh hey. Jess, when are you planning the next girls weekend?!

I cannot wait to see Kate marry her love this summer. It's going to be one for the record books. PS. That one is back in Sonoma too - so much wine country, I can't wait to show you!

But, before we watch her get married, we got the chance to celebrate her last big weekend as a single lady. Austin, you were weird and I loved you. Let's get to it.


WHAT YOU NEED: 
If you've never been to Texas, be prepared for the humidity. It was way hotter than I thought it would be. But, the best part, you are not too far away from some pretty amazing bodies of water.

For our weekend, we needed boat clothes, going out clothes, wine tasting outfits and big hats for all the sunshine.Imagine your cutest sundresses and your comfiest sandals, that is what you need for a weekend in Austin. Throw in a cute dress to go out to dinner and drinks and you are all set. Swimsuit, cover-up and your iPhone. Pictures are a must.

Might I also suggest a great group a girls, the best bachelorette (like Kate) and a camera with a timer (or a Polaroid!). (See below!)

WHAT TO DO: First, there is so much to do in Austin, I wish I could have stayed there for two weeks. We were there for three nights and 3 1/2 days and boy did we cram a ton in. 

• Rent a house, not a hotel: Kate and Jess, our amazing hostesses found the BEST house in Austin. It slept all 12 of us, had the biggest backyard ever and was the perfect location for 12 girls to get to know each other, have dinners and most importantly, have fun. It was the cutest house I've ever stayed in. I'll be back ya little dream bungalow. 
• Day on Lake Austin or Lake Travis: We spent the day at Lake Austin and it was incredible. We tethered up in the party cove, listened to jams, drank cold beer, took thousands of pictures and floated. There are tons of people tethered in this part of the lake, so heads up, be careful but have the best time ever. Oh, and at the end of the lake on the hill is Matthew McConaughey's house, wave hello!
• Wine Tasting: Did you know there's wine tasting in Austin? I had NO idea. We jumped on a big bus and found ourselves in the mountains of wine county. We went to three different vineyards throughout the day. There are tons to hit up, My recommendation is Hawk's Shadow Winery. It's the best. Or you can go to Duchman Family Wines - it has the prettiest vineyard and the best spots to sit and relax. You seriously feel like your in the hills of Tuscany when you walk in their building, it's stunning.
• Go to Rainey Street: Rainey Street is the cutest block of old homes turned into bars. All the bars have the great decks in the front and back, packed full of people and great music. We grabbed cocktails and sat on the back deck and just chilled. It was the best. 
• South Congress: Great shopping and the famous "I love you so much" wall!
• Great food: See below! 
• Have face masks made of the groom: See below! 

WHERE TO STAY:  

• VRBO or AirBnB:  This is my ultimate recommendation for a group of girls. It was awesome because we really had the opportunity to get to know each other. We were able to sleep 12 girls, eat dinner together, play games, have a fire-pit, play yard games and enjoy each other. It was nice to not have to split up and divide into separate rooms. Since I didn't stay at a hotel, I don't have much to recommend but, here are some other cute hotels! 
• The Driskill: The Driskill (now a Hilton!) was opened in 1886 and has been deemed a historic site since 1969. Not only is it historic, but it has a reputation for being “haunted”. At check-in they even gave us a list of their “ghost stories” upon request.
• Four Seasons (always a reliable choice!): The hotel is perched on the banks of Lady Bird Lake which is outlined by a famous trail regarded as one of the best places in in the city (some might say the entire country) to exercise and enjoy the outdoors—something that the state capital’s residents frequently do. 
• Hotel Saint Cecilia: Named after the patron saint of music, the Saint Cecilia — which features turntables in every room and has an extensive library of vinyl records — is already a favorite of big-name musicians who swing into town to play on the city’s countless stages. Rock-star style and Southern hospitality make a rare and beguiling combination. Everything about this hotel is thought out and well considered, from the plate of locally made sweets that greet you in your room to the handwritten note nearby.
• The W: Cocktails such as the cucumber and jalapeno lemonade, made with local Deep Eddy Vodka, or the green bee, which uses honey sourced from the hotel’s rooftop hives.

WHERE TO EAT: Our first night at the house, we ate in because girls were sort of trickling in throughout the night. We ordered tons and pizza and just hung around getting to know each other. I totally suggest this, especially in a group where not everyone knows each other. It's the perfect bonding time. Plus, who doesn't like pizza. Our last night, Jess got mexican food catered in. I wish I would have gotten a picture. We had enough food to feed 75 people and if I'm being honest, we made a pretty damn good dent. 

Have you ever met someone who you instantly know you're going to be friends with? That is how I immediately felt about my friend, Callie. This post is dedicated to Calista. Callie and I have been friends since she walked into freshman seminar at Pepperdine. Since then, we've been sorority sisters, roommates, she was at my law school graduation, engagement party, she was a bridesmaid in my wedding and now, I get to be in hers.

We've experienced a lot of life together. But I think her wedding is going to be the icing on top of this cake. Let me tell you a little about Callie. She's the best friend, fiance, daughter and teacher. She talks loud, sings louder and is kinder than anyone you'll ever meet. She cares deeply about the ones she loves and works harder than anyone I know. Everyone wants a friend like Callie. 

This past weekend I had the honor of joining her and a group of her friends to help celebrate her upcoming nuptials. It was such a wonderful weekend spent laughing until we all cried, literally, inside jokes, tons of pictures, time in the sun, wine and long talks. It was so wonderful getting to know all of Callie's friends and family. The best part about her friends, they treated me like we'd been friends for years. I know this wedding is going to be amazing.

I've never been to Napa Valley before. The closest I've gotten is pictures, stories and my imagination. So, what I learned is there is more than one valley, more towns than just Napa and so much wine to be had.

We stayed in Calistoga, which in my opinion is the best. Talk about a dream location. In my 3 days spent in Calistoga I ate the best food, drank the best wine and swam in the best hot springs. Luckily for you, I've got all the hot-spots. Let's get to it.


WHAT YOU NEED: 
Great friends, a swimsuit, a big floppy hat, some sundresses, comfy shoes, sunglasses, matching shirts with the hashtag on it, yoga gear and sunscreen. Plus, make sure your camera has lots of room on it., pictures are a must.

I absolutely over packed. I wish I was kidding. We went for a weekend and I brought a suitcase bigger than required by a European vacation. But, in my defense, it was my first trip to Napa and I had no clue! Really, all ya need is a few dresses and some great friends. The rest will fall into place.

WHAT TO DO:

• Hot Springs: A lot of our Saturday was spent being lazy by the hot springs. I didn't realize the huge pool was actually a hot spring. It was incredible. The hot spring has to be like 85 degrees, I'm actually not sure, but it's so nice and warm. It's crazy to think that even when it's 80 degrees outside that an 85 degree pool would feel great. 
• A little workout: In the AM on Saturday  Callie's sister Ellie organized a private yoga clsas on the house deck. I highly recommend this. Especially after a few (or 9) glasses of wine on Friday night, nothing felt better than some yoga outside. 
• Wine tasting: You are in Napa Valley after all! We tried so many new wines and I was in my heaven. I cannot believe I've haven't done this sooner. 
• Great food: See below!
• Wander downtown Calistoga, Yountville or Sonoma. They are picturesque. Next time I'm spending so much time in all three. They are so darling.

WHERE TO STAY:  
We stayed at Indian Springs Resort and it was incredible. We had this amazing bungalow with multiple bedrooms, a kitchen and a family room. It also had this huge deck where we did yoga in the morning. It was a perfect spot for lots of girls, couples or even families. Indian Springs had this huge hot spring pool, mud baths and the entire compound was stunning. I felt like I was in paradise.

When/if you've been to Napa Valley, where do you stay? Whats your favorite local? I'm going back twice more this summer and need some recs! Send them this way!


WHERE TO EAT: 
Well, luckily for me, Napa Valley has a ton of food, because man, I love food and we did a lot of eating. Whenever I would ask what kind of food the restaurant had, people would say, "California food." I didn't know what that meant at first, but holy moly, it's safe to say California food is my new favorite food. What I learned is California food is fresh, delicious and food I absolutely crave.

I was only there for two days, so didn't have the chance to eat at a ton of places, but the places I tried were absolutely incredible! What are your favorite places to eat?

The Boon Fly Cafe: We stopped in to Boon Fly on our way into Napa Valley. It is a part of Carneros Resort and Spa. It is so dang delicious. It's known for it's modern rustic cuisine in a contemporary roadhouse atmosphere (direct quote!). They are known for their amazing donuts. Take my advice and get the donuts, it's worth a splurge. I got the most delicious hamburger I've ever had. Oh and of course, champs. Hamburgers, corn beef hash, donuts and all the egg breakfasts you can imagine.

This weekend I get to go to Calistoga to celebrate one of my best friends Callie. She is getting married this summer and what would a wedding be without one last sendoff, complete with wine and girlfriends. Next week I'll be sharing a how-where & what to do in Napa Valley post. You won't wanna miss it!

Calistoga is tucked into the base of Mount Saint Helena at the top of Napa Valley and it offers all the rustic charm of a 19th-century western town. We are staying at the Indian Springs Resort. Feel free to check it out here, I'll share more details next week. Oh, and don't forget to follow me on Insta Stories, you'll get a sneak peek! 

I've never been to Napa Valley before so I am thrilled. In my head, I expect Napa Valley to be rolling hills, stunning views, small town feel with grapes flooding the region. I imagine the sun always to be shining, the breeze to be cool and the sun hot. Have any of you been to Napa Valley before? Whats your favorite part?

The hardest part about packing for a place you've never been is the unknown. How many shoes do I bring, how many fancy dresses v. maxi dresses. Do I bring a jacket? Two? Heels or wedges. The packing battle can be hard. But don't you worry folks, I've got the tips and the perfect packing list for you.


THE NEW TRIP TIPS: Tips to packing for a place you've never been:

1. Start early: I'm one of those annoying people who starts packing days in advance. I start laying stuff out on our guest bed just so I can start mentally preparing for the trip.

2. Check the weather: You gotta make sure you don't bring sweaters when it's 90 and bikinis when it's snowing.

3. Scope out your location: If you know where you're going to dinner, scope out the scene and get a feel for where you're at. For example, Nobu in Las Vegas is going to be very different than the farm house in Napa. No-one wants to be in jeans when it should be fancy.

Luckily for us, Callie's sister had a great itinerary she emailed us ahead of time, so doing my research was easy peasy. The weather this weekend is going to be warm. High-80's during the day and mid-50's at night. We're doing a mix of yoga, hiking, wine tasting, lazy dinners in and nice dinners out.

THE PACKING LIST: Lets get to the fun part, the clothes.




3. Sundress with the cutest jacket. It's Napa! I can only imagine the darling pictures we're going to want to take. A bright sundress for those hot afternoons will be perfect. Plus, a jacket for when it's breezy. I really don't want to get sunburned! You all know how much I love the color black, but I feel like in Napa, black is a no-no. I'm focused on bright colors and floral patters.





5. Pajamas. This week I'll be bunking with about 10 girls, most of who I don't know. Probably not appropriate to show up in Adams old ripped t-shirt and boy shirts. Luckily Madewell saved my life and came out with sleepwear. Now I can look my age even when I'm sleeping. PS. Madewell's intimates are the PERFECT gift for a bride too - just sayin.



6. All the other goods: I am not a good light packer. I am notorious for bringing things that never leave the suitcase. But I hate getting to a location and wishing I would have brought one more jacket or shirt. These are all the last minute throw in items: swimsuit (I'm obsessed with this one piece!), a jean Jacket, cute tennis shoes, a pair of slides, that one t-shirt dress that you know goes with everything and a light cozy sweater.






Happy Thursday friends! I hope the rest of your week runs smoothly! I cannot wait to share my Napa trip with you next week! Make sure to follow along on Insta-Stories!

So you wanna take a trip to San Diego do ya? I just love San Diego. It's one of the most picturesque places ever. The weather is almost always perfect, the sun is shining (except for that June gloom), the boats are always in the harbor and the food and drink is incredible. I used to go every summer as a kid because we had family there.

My most recent trip was a little different from the trips I used to take as a kid. This trip was a bachelorette party for my best, Coti. Her sister planned the most incredible getaway and because of her, I have 10 tips and tricks to having the best time in San Diego.



This is dedicated to Coti. Only 37 days away from I do! I'm so glad I could celebrate with you this past weekend -- I cannot wait for the big day! #mattandcotisayido

I also have a lot of photo evidence of my 10 tips and tricks, so get excited, they're really good.

1. Make sure your best friend is getting married and having her bachelorette party there. This really ensures that the weekend will be full of girlfriends, laughing, delicious cocktails and lots of selfies. 
2. Stay at a great hotel in a great location. We stayed at the Andaz and it was right in the middle of downtown San Diego. We walked to breakfast every morning, uber drives were short and the rooftop bar at the Andaz is awesome. 
3. Eat delicious breakfasts. Our first morning there we went to Coffee and Tea Collective where my BFF bachelorette and I split an avocado toast and an Acai bowl. Wow... Make sure you ask for some extra pink Himalayan salt for your toast. And, the Americanos' are amazing there! 
4. Eat delicious lunches. Are you seeing a theme here, we love to eat We lunched at Tower 23, right on Pacific Beach. There is literally nothing better than a delicious salad, amazing wine and a gorgeous view of the ocean. Oh, and top it off with great girlfriends. Done and done. 
5. Eat delicious dinners. Might I recommend Kettner Exchange and Nobu. Both a little more on the expensive side, but both totally worth it. I've never eaten better. At Kettner, get the tuna pizza and at Nobu get the yellowtail sashimi with jalapenos. Trust me.
6. Go to fabulous clubs and dance the night away. We went to Omnia which was so fun. Granted the girls around me were like 12 and didn't know that Kelly Kapowski actually invented the crop-top instead of Forever 21, but hey, it was so fun. Then against our better judgment and the fact that Uber couldn't "find" us, we got on a rickshaw. Literally one block and $20 later he started cursing at us and calling us names that I refuse to type. Just let the Uber find you. Take my word on this one. 
7. Get cute matching t-shirts. This is a must. 
8. Make sure there are presents. Presents are also always a must. 
9. Find a yacht and go on the yacht. Cruise the harbor. Party on the yacht. Repeat. Oh, and when they let you drive the yacht, you drive the yacht and you honk the horn. 
10. Take thousands of pictures, make a shared album and relive the weekend over and over. Oh, and for sure get on Snapchat. Those stories are some of the best.