"Superfine: Tailoring Black Style." This year, The Costume Institute is spotlighting Black dandyism—how fashion has been used as a powerful form of resistance and self-expression in Black communities across the United States and Europe. The exhibit features everything from garments and accessories to films, paintings, and photographs, spanning the 18th century to today. It puts a special focus on menswear, showcasing sharp tailoring, bold colors, striking patterns, and standout accessories. Laura Harrier This was the most pretty look of the night—a beautifully delicate and feminine interpretation of the theme. The contrast between the structured, masculine trousers and vest and the soft, romantic balloon sleeves and plunging neckline is just perfect. Not to mention that it was designed by Zac Posen for Gap Studio. Colman Domingo Colman Domingo wore custom Valentino, standing out from the crowd by forgoing simplicity and embracing bold patterns that pay homage to Black dandyism. His look was a masterful play on pattern and silhouette—a daring, stylish statement that celebrated heritage through high fashion. Imaan Hammam The Dutch model wore a striking white suit, expertly tailored by Polish designer Magda Butrym. The sharp-shouldered silhouette was elevated with a polka dot tie, a dramatic feathered headpiece, and a sleek cane—each detail thoughtfully echoing the theme. Andrew Scott I’ll admit I might be biased as a devoted Fleabag  fan, but Andrew Scott consistently proves he's unafraid to take risks with bold color—something that's easy to admire in a sea of black-and-white menswear. His vibrant color-blocking of primary hues allows the look stand out effortlessly. He's just adorable. Madonna Madonna stepped out in a sleek ivory suit designed by Haider Ackermann—a modern interpretation of the theme that still nods to its historical roots. She completed the look with sheer gloves, a delicate floral brooch, and, in true Madonna fashion, lit up a cigar. Zoe Saldaña This Thom Browne piece is the fashion equivalent of a sculpture—flawlessly smooth in form, yet sharp at the hips and shoulders. The exaggerated button detailing and crisp white collar enhance the precision of the tailoring. I absolutely love this. Kamala Harris Kamala Harris poses alongside Off-White Creative Director, IB Kamara, wearing a classic gown featuring intentional waist pleating and a flowing scarf—each element thoughtfully nodding to the evening’s emphasis on structured tailor. Justice Smith Justice Smith wears custom Valentino—a truly unique suit featuring a cropped jacket, flared pant legs, and a soft, buttery yellow hue. The asymmetrical polka dot detail adds just the right touch of intrigue, elevating the clean simplicity of the base look. Emma Chamberlain She just never misses. Emma stuns in a risqué Courrèges gown, reimagined in classic pinstripes. With its sharply tailored neckline, dramatic train, and buttoned slit, the look balances sophistication with bold edge.

My Papa does all the family cooking. I’m so lucky to have learned so much from him—it’s truly one of my fondest memories of growing up. Helping him cook after a long day, impatiently asking, “How much longer?” (Sorry, Papa.) We spent summer nights grilling salmon on cedar planks, smash burgers paired with a special sauce, and summer squash on the deck, the August sun casting an orange glow through the tree branches in my backyard. We watched as bats flew frantically through the woods. In the winter, it was crispy chicken cutlets with vodka pasta or a taco bar, every topping imaginable arranged in little bowls on the counter. Before school, my Papa would make me a spinach and cheese omelet—somehow finding time between getting ready for work, throwing together a lunch, and walking our dog, Koko. I loved those omelets so much that I ate one every single morning… until the day I couldn’t stand them anymore. And before the omelet phase? It was all about eggs in a basket. These little breakfasts made up for the fact that I often had to listen to news while my Papa drove me to school. He also has a way of looking at an empty pantry and somehow making something delicious out of almost nothing. One of my all-time favorites is a dish we call “Black Beans and Rice,” topped with smoked sausage, tomatoes, a generous pinch of cilantro, sour cream, and hot sauce. Now that I no longer live at home, it’s the dinner I crave most. For the most part, my whole family would gather around the table once dinner was ready—something so simple, yet so important. It was a chance to wind down from the day and just talk. I believe my father inherited his cooking skills from his mother, my Grandma J. Her love language was bringing the entire Jarzemsky family together—seven children, their children, and their children—and cooking for them. We chatted over cheese and crackers, followed by a lovely dinner, and finished with ice cream and coffee. After too much food, we’d lounge on her large wooden deck, surrounded by a towering birch tree and an expansive garden. Yes, she really did it all.  New babies were passed around and adored for their chubby cheeks and tiny toes, while my sisters and I ran through the yard, tossing a frisbee back and forth. By nightfall, we’d all gather around my grandma in the living room, my sisters and me begging her to tell us about her old boyfriends and the wild stories from her teenage years. Food is the thread that weaves families together. I have my grandmother to thank—not just for creating the most beautiful family, but for teaching us the joy of welcoming others to the table. A shared meal becomes a shared story, sparking conversations and connections that last a lifetime. Cheers to Grandma J—miss you dearly.

A few years ago, I set a new goal: to read more. I started by forcing myself to read 10 pages before bed every night. This nightly ritual quickly evolved into something much bigger—I fell back in love with reading. Last summer, I spent hours blistering under the hot sun, devouring books for five hours a day. In those three months, I spent more money on books than anything else. How cool is it to be able to be somewhere else just by reading the words strung together on a page?  Yesterday, I finished what has quickly become my new favorite book— The Wedding People . Named Goodreads’ “Readers’ Favorite Fiction Novel of 2024,” it had me setting high expectations from the very first page. By the last, those expectations were surpassed. PS. You should also give The Wedding People a shot. My Summary Phoebe, a professor from St. Louis, feels utterly defeated. Betrayed by her husband and drained from years of failed IVF, she’s lost her sense of purpose. Her work no longer inspires her, and to top it all off, her shitty husband has left her for her beautiful friend, Mia. Desperate for a change, Phoebe escapes to The Cornwall Inn—a luxury hotel on the coast of Rhode Island. She doesn’t even pack a suitcase. It’s just her. But when she arrives, something feels off. She’s the only guest staying at The Cornwall—except for the wedding people. The wedding people are about to ruin Phoebe’s plan. And yes, they do—specifically, Lila, the high-maintenance bride. Phoebe and Lila couldn’t be more different, but somehow, they’re drawn to each other, and a deep friendship quickly forms. Over the course of the wedding week, Phoebe continues to bond with the wedding people, who unknowingly save her life in ways she never expected. By the time she leaves The Cornwall, she’s an entirely different Phoebe. She’s honest with herself and others, she’s witty, she desires more from life—and she’s ready to turn the page. My Takeaways It’s hard to believe that Phoebe is not real, because she was presented with such detail and personality. She is terrified of her life and also completely brave by continuing forward even in moments of heartbreak and despair. She begins to notice her life and breathes it into those around her, inspiring them in positive ways. She finds a new life through the wedding people. She grows so much throughout the novel, that by the end it was so easy to feel proud and unimaginably happy for her.  This book is about finding life in ourselves. People help us along the way, but it is inevitably up to us to pull ourselves out of whatever is negatively impacting our lives. It could be sorrow, or loss, or betrayal, or whatever events knock us down. The Wedding People  is incredibly relatable, even though I haven’t personally experienced what the protagonist has. The characters feel so human—they make big mistakes, say the wrong things, and stumble through life. Yet, they grow from these moments, emerging stronger and more authentic. Favorite Quotes from The Wedding People “This is exactly what Phoebe has always hated and loved about life—how unpredictable it is, how things can change in an instant.” “Love is visible—It paints the air between two people a different color, and everyone can see it” “The fish shakes windy on the end of the line, the force of his will to love so enormous. He is like Virginia Woolf’s moth, fluttering its wings—all struggle, all life.” “It’s beautiful,” she says. “The smallest sprout shows there is really no death.” “Phoebe is beginning to accept herself as she truly is—human and sad. The best way is through. But what else can a person do except keep trying?” “Nobody can take care of you the way you need to take care of yourself. It’s your job to take care of yourself like that.”

NOTHIN LIKE U / CHANCES - EP by Kaytranada  Kaytranada works with Ty Dolla $ign to produce electro-R&B sounds. Both “CHANCES” featuring Shay Lia (who has the voice of an angel) and “NOTHIN LIKE U” featuring Ty Dolla $ign sound absolutely perfect. Kaytranada blurs the lines of genre with every project he produces. “Can’t Have It All” by Leon Bridges Leon Bridges has always been known for his smooth, 60s soul style, but with “Can’t Have It All,” he takes a step into country music. This track is part of his new album, Leon , released in October 2024, and it’s a standout example of how artists can successfully explore new genres while staying true to their essence—Leon’s being twangy instrumentation and soulful vocals. “She’s Not There” by Santana The first time I heard “She’s Not There” by Santana, I was sitting on the couch with my mom over the holidays, watching The Long Kiss Goodnight . If you haven’t seen it, stop and add it to your must-watch list—it’s a criminally underrated 90’s film starring Geena Davis and Samuel L. Jackson. The song is a badass blend of classic rock and soul paired with some insane guitar. “Hot Blooded”   by New Constellations Portland duo Harlee Case and Josh Smith create captivating singles and EPs that blend ethereal soundscapes with 80s-inspired techno beats, all brought to life by Harlee Case’s raw, unfiltered vocals. The synergy between them is undeniable, resulting in a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. “Still beating” and “Treat Her Better” by Mac Demarco Mac DeMarco’s voice is one of a kind—not conventionally spectacular, but that’s what makes it so memorable. His unpolished, laid-back delivery feels effortlessly relatable, perfectly complementing his lazy Sunday style. A hopeless romantic at heart, Mac weaves humor into his stories.

Lets talk fashion... Tommy Hilfiger Fall/Winter 2024 Collection: Preppy Revival Tommy Hilfiger's Fall/Winter 2024 collection masters the art of ultra-preppy fashion with a modern touch. Think sweater vests, deep-V silhouettes, classic loafers, and oversized blazers — all styled with nostalgia in mind. Every piece strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and polished, capturing that effortlessly put-together look we all aspire to. This collection delivers a stylish blend of old-school charm and contemporary ease. Chloé Fall 2024 Collection: Shabby Chic Meets Bohemian Elegance Chloé's Fall 2024 collection is the epitome of shabby chic seen with a fresh bohemian flair. This dreamy lineup features effortlessly feminine silhouettes, textured ruffles, and ethereal sheer fabrics. Each piece blends romantic charm with a free-spirited vibe. Whether it's the flowing dresses or the delicate details of each leather jacket, this collection is a celebration of understated luxury and bohemian allure. Schiaparelli Fall/Winter 2024/25 Ready-to-Wear: Elevated Classics Schiaparelli’s Fall/Winter 2024/25 Ready-to-Wear collection redefines timeless fashion with a luxurious twist. Dubbed “a capsule of classics,” the collection features tailored suits, denim-on-denim ensembles, and double-breasted trench coats — all elevated with tailoring and signature golden accents. There is a thoughtful use of volume and texture, transforming staples into standout pieces. Every silhouette an ode to historic classics with a bold, modern edge. Acne Studios Fall Winter 2024: A Tribute to 'Leather and Denim' Acne Studios' Fall 2024 collection revisits its roots, drawing inspiration from the brand's iconic late-90s "Leather and Denim" collection. This modern interpretation captures the essence of effortless cool while embracing the exaggerated sides of structure and form. Each piece strikes a balance between sleek minimalism and unique draping, blending classic materials with a futuristic shapes. From reimagined leather jackets to denim pieces, the collection feels timeless yet undeniably innovative.

After months—what felt like an eternity—of searching, applying, and interviewing, I finally found a position I adore. I even have a cubicle and everything! Now, all I need is the power suit. But before the job, was the hunt... The job search process is an incredibly daunting part of post-grad life, often filled with dread and anxiety. Some days, I found myself excited to explore new opportunities, while other days were spent in a far less optimistic way—opening countless emails with the same disappointing outcome: “After careful consideration, we have decided to head in a different direction… blah blah blah .” It’s a competitive and lengthy process, where hundreds of individuals are vying for the same entry-level role. With those odds looming over your shoulder, it's easy to feel discouraged about the whole thing. When I first began applying to jobs about a year ago, I kept a document listing every application I submitted. I managed to keep up with it for a while, but eventually lost track because I was applying to so many each day. If I had to guess, I’d say I’ve applied to more than 300 jobs in the past year. Three hundred!!!! But, it wasn't all negative. I learned lessons and met some incredible people along the way. One publisher of a well-known southern magazine said that I was too young for the position I had applied for, but I made an impression. She invited me to an event where we connected and she offered me freelance work. It wasn't the full-time position I was hoping for but it was a foot in the door and an opportunity to get a taste for writing for different publications.  After a year of trial and error, I have created a list of tips for others who are in the same boat that I was in less than a month ago. Show Your Passion! This is, hands down, the main reason I was able to connect with and freelance for magazines during my job search. Editors want to work with people who are genuinely passionate and eager to make a difference. Take the time to reflect on why you chose your career field and how you can contribute to making it a better place. Shift In Mentality  I’m the type of person who hates the unknown. I want to have control and a clear direction for my future at all times, so the job search left me feeling completely out of control and scared about what was ahead. Shifting my mindset from fear to excitement made a huge difference. Even though it may not feel like it at the moment, opportunities are everywhere—you just have to keep looking. It’s exciting to think about how much you’ll grow throughout the process! Trust that if you put in the effort, something will inevitably work out. Stay Patient Yes, you will have to answer the question “Have you found a job yet?”  a million times—especially at every extended family gathering. It sucks. But maintaining patience and approaching each day with a fresh mindset is crucial for the job search, but for life in general. Foster Company Connections, Even If You Don't Get The Position So, you didn’t get the position in your dream company? Let the talent acquisition rep know that you are interested in future positions and would love to stay connected. Consistency and communication are qualities every employer is looking for. Foster these connections. Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable  Cold emailing and connecting with people can seem intimidating at first, but I’ve grown to love learning about how editors became editors. They come from all kinds of educational and professional backgrounds, perfect people to learn from. At the end of the day, it’s all about who you know—so get knowing! I make a point to use every avenue to connect with individuals who hold positions I aspire to one day. These people are invaluable resources, offering insight and advice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions like: What led you to this position? What were your previous roles at the company? Do you have any tips for someone interested in working in this role? 2 Sided Interviews Yes, you are being interviewed, but you are also interviewing the company. Make sure to ask questions that will help you evaluate whether it is a place you would want to work or not. Make sure you have an extensive list of questions to ask the employer about the position, day-to-day tasks, company culture, and the team (this is so  important!). These questions not only show your interest but also help you determine if the role and workplace are the right fit for you. Be yourself and continue to work towards the best version of yourself. Happy interviewing!

October is here, and man, have I been busy. But I’m making an effort to slow down and savor this month because it’s truly one of my favorites. With cooler weather finally rolling in, the leaves will starting to change, and soon I'll be able to pull out my favorite jean jacket. So, in the spirit of October, here are a few of my current favorites to celebrate the season. Listening to  "That’s my Floor" by Magdalena Bay OMG, the entire Imaginal Disk  album is just fascinating. Magdalena Bay has been making waves since 2016, but they're really gaining momentum lately. “That’s My Floor” is a standout synth-pop track that channels early 2000s grunge. Honorable mention: "The Ballad of Matt & Mica" "Flip Ur Pillow" by Runo Plum  Do you ever get those songs that you immediately become obsessed with for no particular reason at all? Well, this is that song for me. It's like that bittersweet feeling of summer fading away. There's something about it that just resonates with this time of year. It’s just so simple and appreciate that. The Mel Robbins Podcast Mel Robbins has the best advice for post grads and anyone in their 20s really. She is guiding listeners to grow both professionally and personally. Each episode helps you develop as a more confident and well-rounded individual. Her topics cover a wide range, from "Communicate with Confidence: The Blueprint for Mastering Every Conversation" to "The Science of Women's Health," ensuring there’s something for everyone looking to improve their life. Reading This Summer Will be Different by Carly Fortune  Lucy is heading to Prince Edward Island for a long-awaited visit with her best friend, Bridget. When she arrives early, she unexpectedly crosses paths with Felix, a charming local with curly hair and blue eyes. They instantly hit it off and spend the day together, seemingly inseparable. However, everything shifts when Lucy discovers that Felix is actually Bridget's brother. Despite their chemistry being impossible to ignore, both vow to keep things platonic. Their connection hangs in the balance, teetering between the thrill of romance and the fear of complicating their lives.  The character development is fantastic, and while it embraces a classic trope, it feels refreshingly authentic. The story doesn’t shy away from reality; each character faces their own struggles, making the narrative rich and relatable. I highly recommend. Watching Ted Lasso Ted Lasso follows a college football coach who, despite knowing nothing about soccer, is hired to lead a Premier League in Britain. What he lacks in knowledge, he makes up for in heart, transforming a dysfunctional team into a close-knit family. I started watching this with Andrew, and we absolutely love it! The show’s feel-good vibes, clever plot, hilarious jokes, and heartwarming moments make it an instant favorite. It is seriously so cute and I think you should watch it. Wearing: I love the chillier months because I can finally layer, which makes creating outfits so much more fun. Recently, I’ve been sticking to simple base looks—like jeans (I've been preferring dark wash) and a tank—then adding personality with shoes, jackets, sweaters, and accessories. It’s such a reliable formula that never fails me. I’m especially excited about a recent find—a gorgeous vintage flannel-lined jean jacket that I can’t wait to wear. Plus, i've been obsessed with a pair of my mom’s vintage Dr. Marten mid-calf zip-up boots. They’ve held up surprisingly well and pair perfectly with just about everything (sorry, mom). I've also been referencing a styling tip that I thought I'd share: "If an outfit isn't interesting by color, then it has to be interesting by shape. If it isn't interesting by shape, then it has to be interesting by texture. If it isn't interesting by texture, then it has to be interesting through color." Layer away, my friends!

As the days get shorter and the air becomes chillier, summer slowly slips away. Soon enough I’ll be swapping cutoffs for jeans and tanks for sweaters. What a bittersweet time of year. I love warm summer nights and beach weekends, but by early September I find myself craving the cozy qualities that come with fall. Here are my September favorites. Listening To "First Time" and "Jackie & Wilson" by Hozier I LOVE Hozier. His voice is poetic goodness and stays that way even as he explores heartbreak, love, and sacrifice. Nothing is sugarcoated which brings a sort of refreshing perspective to the love song scene. Dying to see this man live. Summer's Over by TV Girl & Jordana This is one of my favorite albums of all time. TV Girl has a way of blending intoxicating beats with retro samples from 1960s media, giving homage to the new and the old. Jordana's heavenly vocals compliment the bedroom pop beats that TV Girl has refined over the years. My favorites are "Better in the Dark", "Sweet to Dream", and "Summer's Over". I will be listening to this album all season long. "Fade Into You" by Mazzy Star This Mazzy Star song is a melancholy classic. The instrumental and vocals pair with such ease, creating a dreamy listening experience. My Papa loves this song, which gives me a reason to love it even more. Reading Tell me Lies by Carola Lovering Tell Me Lies is a coming of age story that follows Baird College students Lucy Albright and Stephen DeMarco as they navigate a relationship full of betrayal, death of a friend, and a world of coverups. I found myself rooting for Lucy one moment and then wanting to yell at her the next. The storyline is thrilling and juicy, leaving readers wanting more after each chapter. While the characters may be difficult to relate to (hopefully), they each have unique development throughout the story. Plus, this novel is now a series on Hulu! Watching 20th Century Women  directed by Mike Mills In 1979 Santa Barbara, Dorothea Fields finds herself navigating the challenges of raising her teenage son, Jamie, in a rapidly changing world. As cultural shifts and rebellion sweep society, Dorothea enlists the help of two women in her life to guide Jamie through the complexities of growing up. This film feels incredibly authentic, making it easy to fall in love with the characters and their evolving journeys. The cast delivers standout performances, with Annette Bening offering an especially captivating portrayal. If you get the chance, watch this film—you won’t be disappointed! Wearing: The unexpected Red Theory There is an interior design theory that states if you add red to a room, no matter how big or small, the room immediately looks better. I believe this to be true within the world of fashion as well. Red is bold and sexy, timeless. Courrèges Scuba leather biker jacket Yes, this jacket is thousands of dollars, but a girl can dream. I'm a firm believer that a leather jacket can elevate any outfit. Free People Ride Or Die Engineer Boots I adore these boots. A sleek mid-calf boot is the perfect addition for any wardrobe - especially if you're thinking about a capsule wardrobe. It is not only versatile, but also the best substitution for uncomfortable heels.

Social media has made it easier than ever for artists to not only showcase their work but also live off it. Platforms like Instagram have played a key role in shaping and fostering online art communities. While I may not be an expert on the intricacies of social media algorithms, they have led me to stumble upon some seriously amazing artists—both well-known and hidden gems. @petrafcollins Petra Collins is a Canadian art director and photographer. "Her work is fueled by self-discovery and a contemporary femininity, exploring the complex intersection of life as a young woman both online and offline." She shoots art, fashion, film, and music, and has collaborated with Vogue, TIME, SSENSE, and other notable publications. Her photos have a dream-like quality, very reminiscent of 80s style and culture. @mirrorsbylina Lina Shamoon is a multidisciplinary artist based in San Diego, best known for her one-of-a-kind mirrored sculptures. Each piece uniquely captures and reflects surrounding light, creating a mesmerizing display of illumination. From life-sized statues of the Virgin Mary to intricate lighting fixtures and full-body mirrors, Lina has carved out a distinctive niche, transforming reflections into dynamic art. @caviardammit  Sophia, also known by Caviar Dammit, is a Ukrainian bead artist who turned her hobby into a career. She spends countless hours meticulously hand-embroidering each piece, many of which draw inspiration from the sea—featuring vibrant designs of lobsters, sardines, oysters, and shrimp. Each of her creations is intricately crafted with care and color. @kornakna  Anastasia Kornak creates the most beautiful blue pen drawings, which highlight the vast landscapes surrounding her. She manages to cram an insane amount of detail into every small page of her sketchbook. This is some serious talent.    @ellenhee Ellen He is a Los Angeles based art teacher and artist. She creates these really imaginative and nostalgic pieces. Each seeming as if it had just fallen out of a children’s storybook. You can really see how her love for working with children has influenced her artistic style.

First of all, what is a MicroTrend? In the past, fashion trends used to span entire seasons—Spring/Summer or Fall/Winter. But today, trends come and go in a matter of weeks, with new styles being pushed at us constantly. This rapid turnover means more clothes end up in landfills and more profit for manufacturers who often disregard the environmental impact. Many brands even resort to greenwashing, using misleading eco-friendly claims to ease consumers' guilt and encourage more buying, all while continuing to fuel the cycle of fast fashion. Where do they come from?  Couture designers create their collections, only for fast fashion manufacturers to swiftly replicate and mass-produce them. These designer-inspired "copycat" styles trickle down to retailers like H&M, Zara, Urban Outfitters, PacSun, GAP, Forever 21, Shein, and many others where they’re eagerly snapped up by consumers.  The link between TikTok & consumerism  Think about the videos that pop up on your TikTok feed. How many of them are TikTok Shop promotions or influencer brand partnerships? If your For You Page is anything like mine, the answer is probably quite a few. Today, we are led to believe that we can never get enough. You need this product to be pretty. You need this product to fix your finances, you need this product to get a girlfriend, etc . It's bs (pardon my French). We should be consuming far less. Thrift & Donate Thrift stores are experiencing a major resurgence, especially among younger consumers who are increasingly focused on environmental preservation. In-person thrift shops, along with online platforms like Depop, Curtsy, and Poshmark, have made reselling clothing a more attractive option than throwing it away.  Personally, I’ve been making an effort to donate, sell, or repurpose my old clothes. And if I need something new, I always try to thrift it before turning to a retailer. Think about it, like actually  Stores strategically merchandise their products to tempt consumers into buying more. Just think about the displays near checkout counters at places like Nordstrom Rack or TJMaxx, or the allure of rewards programs and points. That’s why, before I make a purchase, I stop and evaluate: - Do I need  this or do I want  this? - Will this significantly improve my quality of life? It’s a small way to stay mindful in a world that constantly pushes us to consume.

As a newcomer to the island, I’ve been diving into everything Hilton Head has to offer. From relaxing on the beaches and hunting for hidden gems while thrifting, to exploring local events, there’s always something happening here. The locals have a great way of enjoying their downtime with friends and family. I’ve got plenty left on my HHI bucket list, but here are a few of my favorite spots I’ve discovered so far. Main Street Main Street is truly adorable and is sparkling with small town charm. It is tucked away in he trees, right off William Hilton Parkway. Cactus Street Cantina is a great casual Mexican spot with unique tacos and great margaritas. I also hear that WiseGuys has the best steak on the island. There are plenty of food onions and cute shops to check out.  Jarvis Creek Park  When I’m not in the mood for the gym, you’ll find me walking the paths of this park instead. A winding trail encircles a peaceful lake, offering a close-up view of local wildlife—everything from jumping fish and sunbathing alligators to birds, lizards, and fearless squirrels. Kids play on the playgrounds while parents unwind on bench swings, enjoying the view. The best part? Everyone here is welcoming, always ready to strike up a friendly conversation. Burkes Beach If you're seeking a tranquil beach experience on Hilton Head, look no further than Burkes Beach. Known as the island's quieter, more laid-back alternative to Coligny Beach, which is the touristy beach of the island. Ample parking makes it easy to access, with just a short walk to the shore. During high tide, you might even catch the local surfers riding the waves. For me, there’s nothing better after a hectic day than grabbing a good book and heading to Burkes Beach with a book and chair in hand. Shelter Cove Shelter Cove truly has something for everyone—whether you're in the mood for shopping, dining at diverse restaurants, exploring parks, enjoying local art, or catching live music. The area hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, with highlights like Music & Taste on the Harbor and the Hilton Head Community Market. With so much to offer, it’s the perfect spot to bring visitors, ensuring there’s always something exciting to see or do. Thrifting Paradise Who knew Hilton Head Island was a hidden gem for thrifting enthusiasts? With its extremely affluent community, the island’s thrift stores feature an insane selection of designer pieces and vintage treasures. If you’re on the hunt for unique finds, these are the top thrift shops you won’t want to miss: Church Mouse: 78 Arrow Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 Litter Box Thrift: 46 Old Wild Horse Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 Bargain Box: 546 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 The Big Three At the north end of Hilton Head Island, you’ll find three standout restaurants that offer not only delicious seafood but also stunning views of the water and marshland. If you’re planning a meal in this scenic part of the island, make sure to check out: Hudson's Seafood House On The Docks Skull Creek Boathouse Skull Creek Dockside The sunsets here are truly spectacular, so I highly recommend timing your visit for a sunset dinner to make the most of the beautiful evening sky. While I’ve grown to appreciate the island's charm, I have to mention a couple of quirks. The strict rules about preserving the habitat mean everything tends to be a shade of beige, which can feel a bit lifeless compared to the vibrant colors of Charleston and Savannah. And it seems the locals aren’t much for nightlife—they enjoy their days but turn in early, so the evening scene is pretty mellow. Despite these quirks, there’s still so much to explore. I highly recommend a vacation to Hilton Head to young families. There are lots of fun activities for kids, like mini golf, movie theaters, fun shops, and plenty of parks. Plus, Hilton is a short distance from Bluffton and Beaufort, which both have cute downtown shopping and beachfront fun.

Working in a creative field comes with its own set of challenges. The expectation to be consistently creative can be unrealistic. Creativity, by nature, fluctuates—some days you’re bursting with inspiration, while other days you might feel like you’ve hit a brick wall. When I find myself in a creative rut, it often looks like this: I dive into a project, but the words just won’t come together. I keep pushing, yet everything I write feels off or uninspired. I sense that the right words are just out of reach, but no matter how hard I try, they never seem to materialize. It is truly frustrating. So , what’s next? Here’s how I navigate through these creative blocks. Take a break Sometimes we need to take a step back for a little while. Then, we can come back later with a fresh perspective and set of eyes. It may even be a good idea to sleep on it, a restful night of sleep is like a reset button. Personally, I find that going on walks helps clear my mind and offers a different view on the problem. Write something else This blog is my “something else.” It’s a space where I can write about anything without pressure or deadlines. It’s entirely mine, and I get to shape it however I want. Journaling is also an effective way to stimulate those journalistic juices. Studies show that putting pen to paper (versus typing) engages your brain more deeply with the information. You can write about anything, from the best part of your day to complaining about that guy who cut you off on your way home from work. The Journal is your oyster. Turn to other creative hobbies Stop thinking and just do it (yes, this is easier said than done). Drop the pressure and focus your efforts on another creative project that has nothing to do with work. Think painting, sketching, knitting, or sculpting. Don’t worry about whether this project is objectively good; just allowing yourself to create something is a step in the right direction. Just have fun with it. Get Inspired Go for a walk, visit a museum, browse Pinterest, or listen to your favorite songs—whatever brings you inspiration. Everyone finds inspiration in different ways, so connect with yourself and explore what excites you about creating and why. When all else fails... Team up! Collaboration is an amazing way to open your eyes to someone else's visions and ideas. A simple conversation can lead you to creative epiphany.