Three Brilliant Ways To Make The Most Out Of Every Meeting

Do you ever walk out of a meeting contemplating what was ever accomplished, or wondering why you just wasted an hour of your life? It's happened to the best of us. You want to leave meetings feeling inspired, productive and ready to tackle any issue, not feel drained or depleted. Over the years I have developed a little method to ensure this doesn't happen and to guarantee that no time is wasted.

There is a way to strategically manage how you occupy your meeting time, so today I'm sharing my three brilliant ways to make the most out of every meeting. 

1. Do a background check.
Who are you meeting with? What's their story? I always like to go into a meeting having done a little Sherlock Holmes investigating beforehand. I do a little digging on LinkedIn and am always researching the company if it's a different one than my own. I take note of their role, and where they have worked in the past. I also like to do a brief google search of the person/company to check out when they were last in the news headlines. Did they just launch a new initiative, or have a merge with another company? It's good to see what they have been up to lately. Something else I do? An Instagram search of the company. I love seeing a company's social profile and how they interact with their community.


2. Make eye contact and take notes.
Don't zone out in the meeting. Jotting down some point form notes ensures that you will stay focused and that your company has your full attention. If you don't need to bring your computer to the meeting, don't. If you do, put your status to away or busy and avoid answering emails. There is nothing like being called upon and not having any idea what is going on in the discussion. I like to show my enthusiasm and interest by maintaining eye contact and nodding in agreement. However, if you don't agree with something, speak your mind! Show your value, and worth and speak! It not only shows your power but that you're not afraid to voice your opinion.


3. Leave with actionable steps.
If the meeting is going on too long or is about to end, be sure to summarize your next steps together. You both want to leave the meeting feeling accomplished and ready to get down to biz. I like to summarize the key takeaways from the meeting and create a list of actionable items for both parties. Reiterate your own action items too, so the person does not feel like you are ordering them to do something, or that they are less important than you.

How do you make the most out of your meetings? Do you have any brilliant ways to make sure everyone is leaving fulfilled, feeling productive and ready to take on the next tasks? Let me know!


Blouse and denim c/o Honey

How to Beat The Winter Blues

Holy moly, it's cold out. The past few weeks have been just extreme. I know it's winter and I live in Canada, but wow. Doesn't it just make you want to curl up in a ball and do absolutely nothing? It does to me... But that is so not productive, and it can make you feel extremely isolated and down! So I am not about that. I may have given in for a day or so but I am vowing to not let it continue! There is still life to live and stuff to get done. I know it can be tough but here are some tips on getting out of that winter funk and embracing winter:

2017 Beauty Finds

January was a fab month for beauty. I discovered some sweet new finds that I can't wait to share with you. From everything from a drugstore toner to a chapstick that will leave your lips moisturised for hours on end, I have you covered.

Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic: Finally Pixi Beauty has made their way to Canada! Once I heard they were launching in Shoppers Drug Mart in January I pretty much stalked every Shoppers I passed to find it. I couldn't be happier that I no longer have to wait for a trip to Target to pick up this exfoliating toner. It firms, tones, tightens and is alcohol-free! It has such a heavenly scent and it doesn't dry out my skin like other toners. I wake up feeling so bright and refreshed. I don't know why I didn't pick up the larger bottle right off the bat...but I know I will be soon.

Bite Beauty Everyday Agave Lip Balm: My lips have never felt more hydrated and protected. This stuff seriously lasts all day! Formulated without parabens, sulphates and phthalates and made with agave and vanilla extract, I love that I can put it on and my lips feel instantly restored. Not to mention it's made with real ingredients. Forget the B.S. When I was first recommended this and went into Sephora searching for it, there was one left. I knew I had to get it there and then. Haven't looked back since. If there is one product you NEED off this list, this is it!

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream: I know this one is a bit of an investment but it's so worth it. Your face will thank you. Rosehip oil, vitamin C, and I guess a little bit of magic, this cream will leave your face feeling extremely soft, dewy, luxurious and firm. It does wonders to cheat the look of a full night's sleep!

Smashbox Cover Shot Eye Palette in Softlight: You saw that I recently have been testing out the Covershot palettes and while I have MANY favourites (hello, Golden Hour and Metallic!) for the everyday Softlight is my go-to. I am all about the soft pinks, golds and nudes for the every day and this one nailed it on my colour scheme. It's the perfect size to take on the go, and the formula is smooth yet offers a nice shimmer. I just mix and match shades until I like what I create! No instructions necessary.

Teeez Highlighter in Body Heat: This creamy highlighter is such a lovely rose/pink colour and gives off a pearlized reflective glow. I love adding a touch to the top of my cheekbones, down the front of my nose and on my cupid's bow for a radiant glow. Teeez Cosmetics is exclusive to Hudson's Bay. Their whole line is fun, cheeky and an instant mood lifter!

Shop the post:

Will you try out any of these? Let me know if you have come across any killer products this past month!

3 Wellness Tips from The Fix + Co

I'm back with my favourite health gurus, Adrianna and Tamara of The Fix + Co., my go-to juice/health food/all things nutritious spot, to give you some insight on how to focus on your wellness this winter. I love working with these ladies because they not only appreciate a positive, healthy lifestyle, but they also know the importance of balance and giving your body exactly what it needs. Last time we whipped up a serious Superfood Smoothie Bowl, and then they gave me a taste of their newest menu addition-- the platters, but now we are focusing on what you can do to be the best version of yourself. Three simple tips to start incorporating into your daily life and it doesn't take much! These ladies know how busy we all are, even after the holidays, so the tips are easy and manageable. Here's what the ladies had to say on re-gain yourself and your wellness this new year.

1. Get ample rest and relaxation. After a busy holiday season, getting in some quality rest and relaxation is important to keep our immunity levels up during this time of year. Even though there may be moments you may feel like you're MIA, forcing yourself to stay in on the weekend could do you some good. You can use that time to catch up on some great Netflix series, organize your closet, or just be a blob. Whatever your body is calling for, do it. Just do you.

2. Eat better, eat less, eat slower. Getting into the habit of being more conscious of your eating habits can only benefit you. Eating better quality foods will make you feel better and will keep you healthy, while eating less will help with reducing indigestion, bloating, and weight gain. We aren't saying that you should under eat, but the majority of the time we over eat. Being conscious of portion sizes is just a way of us figuring out how much food we really need in a day. Also, eating slower and taking the time to eat with the family, friends and co-workers help with your digestion, helps to bond with others and decrease stress levels, and allows you the time to really enjoy your meals. No more eating while standing, while finishing a deadline, or while driving.

3. Focus on yourself. At least once a day, try to do something only for yourself that will better yourself. Often times, we lose focus on our own well-being because we are so busy with looking after other things. Make 2017 the year to be the best version of yourself. You deserve to be happy and healthy, so make room for you. Read self-improvement books, take a new fitness class, learn more about meditation or deep breathing. A healthier and happier you means better relationships and better experiences because you have set yourself up for success and have provided yourself with the tools to cope when things get tough.

If you're looking for more The Fix + Co. is now offering a warm cleanse for winter! Great if you can't think of drinking cold juices right now, or if you're like me and need to have actual food! It's full of hot soups, elixirs, and even a warm bowl for only $56/ day! Such a great way to jump back on track after the holidays. They also started a new run club! Check out their Instagram or website for details.

A huge thanks to Adrianna and Tamara for providing these wellness tips! Let us know if you will try any out and incorporate any into your daily routine!

Juice Cleanse Experience with The Fix + Co
Superfood Smoothie Bowl

Spring Refresh

I love spring for various reasons. There's the sunny skies, blossoming flowers, cropped pants paired with flats, and the pastel resurgence. But, I also love spring for the sense of growth and renewal. The month of March always seems to drag for me, but this year I am actually finding it to be moving pleasantly along. There are a few things I like to do every year around this time to refresh for the season. Whether it's revolves around my closet, body, the home, or just in my mind, I am ready to revitalize after a long, dark winter! Here are some ideas if you're looking to hop into spring with a clear mind and happy spirit.

THE CLOSET 

I like to start with the closet. I always pick this time of year to do a real purge and go through all my clothes and giveaway what doesn't fit, doesn't work, and what I've been pushing aside for too many months. I take this time to grab items I may need to get altered, if I can't be bothered they become giveaways! Piles propagate on the bed and floor as I go through the dresser, closet, then move to the places that people often ignore--  the sock, underwear, bra drawers, then I finish off with the bags, shoes and accessories.

Not only is it important to purge what you don't need, but you are also re-organizing in the process, putting away winter essentials and bringing forward your spring/summer wardrobe. I like to take the purge a step further and really look at how I am building my closet. I make a list in my phone of key pieces I may be missing (i.e.: boyfriend jeans, black blazer, white button down, etc.), that way when I go shopping I am not tempted to buy every floral/pastel/blush pink dress I see and focus on what my closet is lacking. Quality over quantity! 

THE BODY/MIND

Spring is also a great time to give your body a little detox. The weather is finally getting warmer which makes it the perfect time to add outdoor walks on your lunch break. Sitting at a desk all day can really make me go a tad crazy, and my butt ache! I hate not being able to get outside during the colder months, so once spring hits I'll be heading outdoors on lunch. I also love that spring allows me to add more outdoor runs to my work out routine. Just getting the fresh air can do wonders for your mental state of mind. Bye-bye treadmill! 

Spring is not only the perfect time to do a little detox or cleanse, but also add in a bit of pampering! I don't treat myself to spa services often, so I take the change in season as the perfect opportunity to get a massage,  facial or mani/pedi. Not in the budget? Hit up the drug store and treat yourself to a fun nail polish, face mask or body scrub. Add in a quality candle, an interesting book and bubble bath to that mix and you're set for a spa night at home.

Taking care of the mind is just as important as taking care of the body. Sometimes the change in season can create such stints of low energy. I like to really up my green intake to keep my mind clear (and it's great for the physical body too). I've been getting inspired from Julie Cove's new book "Eat Better, Live Better, Feel Better" lately, and although the whole lifestyle isn't realistic for me to follow, she has some great tips on how to sneak more greens into your meals, and what to cut out if you are feeling sluggish,bloated/gassy or have low energy. For example, eating too many types of food in one meal can cause bloating, so try taking a digestive enzyme. Or swap out banana for avocado in your next smoothie to really up the greens.

THE HOME

Over the winter months, junk seems to pile up. Take the upcoming month to clean, de-clutter and organize. Start with the make up and toilettes that seem to have been sitting around for too long, then move to other areas of the house like the office, kitchen (yes, you-- Mr.Pantry) or front closet. It's amazing what a little purging can do for your mental state. Just knowing that things are more organized helps me sleep better at night. While we're on the topic of sleep, if you do need help getting back into a good sleeping routine, check out these tips for a better sleep. 

So! To sum it up for you-- surround yourself in a clean space, with positive people, try to get outside more and eat more greens. Pretty much guarantee a fresh start to a new season! How do you prepare for a new season? Do you have any tips to refresh for the spring? Let me know!

How to Care For Air Plants

When I first discovered these little babies at Centro Garden in Burlington I was absolutely smitten. Air plants add so much life to otherwise stale areas of your home since they literally just need the air to breathe and grow. I love how they create such interesting interior design elements just by being there! They really look great anywhere. Since I'm still deciding where I want to hang my Umbra wall vessels I have been styling my air plants in various places around the room, on little trays and in little vases. Add them to little terrariums, little pots, put them on a shelf, or hang them from the ceiling, all without worrying if your black thumb will kill them within the week!

Before I took two home I made sure to get the low-down on just how to take care of air plants, and believe me, it couldn't be simpler!

Here are my tips on how to give your air plants the best care possible:

1. Light. While air plants need bright, natural light, they shouldn't be placed directly in a window sill with direct sun exposure. Ideally they should be placed 3-10 feet from a window. 

2. Water. Air plants absorb nutrients through their leaves, not their roots, so to water the plant you must submerge the whole plant in water for a few minutes. Remove from water, shake off any excess and let the air plant dry on it's own.
**If you notice the leaves soft and light in colour it's time for a watering, otherwise the leaves should feel full.  Water roughly 2-3 times a week.  

Other tips:

*Don't leave the plant submerged in water. 

*Since they originate from South & Central America, they can survive outdoors in (our) summer months. Just be sure to leave them in a shady location with no more than 2 hours of direct sunlight. Perfect for adding some interesting decor elements to your exterior dining table, or seating area!

*You can fertilize twice a month for optimum growth. Use Bromeliad Fertilizer. 

Simple right? Such a great way to add some elements of fresh, green life into your home! How would you style air plants? 

Tips For a Better Sleep

Getting a good nights sleep is something I seriously value. A few months back I was going through a phase where I was unable to get a solid night's sleep and my livelihood was becoming seriously disrupted. I would wake up a few times throughout the night, be up for the morning around 4:30am, and go to work exhausted. I have since gotten back on track and have learned how to encourage my body to sleep better and fight against strange waking patterns. Here are a few of my tips for a better sleep:

1. No eating after 7:30/8, especially foods high in sugar. I'll admit- on weekends I rarely stay true to this rule, but on weeknights I have come to the realization that if I have sugar so close to bed time I am unable to fall asleep within a reasonable time-frame, or alternatively, I'll wake up with a face paced beating heart. 

2. Keep the phone off your nightstand. It's so easy to roll over and check your phone while you are in the falling asleep phase, or tossing and turning phase. Sometimes I'll see things that rev me up, or just the light in general catches my eye. Try keeping electronics a few extra feet away from the bed for a proper nights sleep.

3. Relax with a warm bubble bath, a tea and some light stretching. If I have too much energy before bed I'll make a soothing tea and fill the bath tub with some of my Perk Naturals Lavender and Lemon body scrub. It's relaxing and signals my body that it's time to wind down. Just before you get into bed do a few easy stretches and deep breathing exercises. It actually works!

4. Clear your head by reading a chapter of a book (and not on a black-lit device!). It sometimes can help to wind down your busy mind by lighting a candle and reading a chapter or two of a book. Just avoid the suspenseful books that suck you in for hours on end!

5. De-clutter and organize. Spend a few minutes de-cluttering your room and put away any clothes that may be lying around. I find it does help to know you are in a tidy environment. I also try to have my breakfast prepared (overnight oats, duh!), along with my lunch, and I try to lay out my clothes for the next day. I don't go to bed stressing about what to wear or eat the next day and that is just one less thing to rack your brain over while trying to fall asleep!

I hope these help! Do you have any tried and true remedies for sleeplessness?

As Of Late

Life has been progressing at super sonic speeds as of late. If you follow me on Instagram you would like likely seen a sneak peak into floral filled, and rather colourful activities. What exactly are you looking at? I'll fill you in. A morning spent turning my cookie dough "Lara Bars" in balls, a delicious lunch with my momma at Humble Beginnings,  watermelon margaritas for an impromptu girls night, card shopping at The Paper Place, our blooming Magnolia tree, cupcake decorating at Bonnie Gordon College of Confectionary Arts, and lastly, something that I am extremely proud of, the medal I received after completing the Sporting Life 10KM run last weekend! Thanks for sticking around, and be sure to check back in next week for a collab I am working on with a pretty amazing brand! 

Coffee Shop Talk

Hiding out in quaint cafés and coffee shops is something that has definitely stuck with me well beyond my university school days. Back then they made the task of writing ridiculously long essays more enjoyable, and today they act as a haven to blog, a reason to explore new parts of town, and most importantly to fuel with coffee and treats. When I do get out to coffee shops solo, whether it's to work, to bask in their wifi when the power is out, or for any other reason, there are a few mandatory items I always bring with me.

1. Blanket scarf- You never know when the temperature will change drastically, if you will be sitting next to the door or window, or if you need a little cushion for the less desirable seating (hem- those wooden chairs).

2. Water- I hate buying water, and sometimes getting up to ask for a cup will risk someone stealing your spot. I always like to have my refillable water bottle with me because I tend to always need something to sip on.

3. Chap stick & hand cream- Whether it's just by habit, or the fact that some places can get dry and with the door opening and closing, I tend to re-apply chap stick and hand cream multiple times throughout my coffee shop sessions. I would hate to have to leave because my lips are cracked and in pain.

4. Headphones- Sometimes you need a relaxing playlist for a little white noise, or need to drown out an overly loud table. Headphones won't disappoint.

5. Electronics- Other important items are laptop charger and phone charger. It may seem obvious but they can easily be left behind, and with my ever dwindling battery life, these cords are necessities.

Are there any key items I'm missing from your list? I'd also love to know what are your favourite coffee shops and your go-to order?

As Of Late

Today's As Of Late presents a sneak peak into the social media workshop I attended held by Random Acts of Pastel, and Bicyclette Boutique, how I spent my time recovering from the craziness of Fashion Week, and a few other pretty things I've been loving lately. Happy Saturday! 

Sipping on Sloane Tea, and snacking on delicious treats from The Bake Shoppe during The Get Social Workshop (!!!mini homemade pop tarts!!)

Post Fashion Week recovery essentials: tea, a deliciously scented peach candle, and my favourite new hand lotion, Vanilla Bean by Lovefresh.

The perfectly pastel sweet table from The Get Social Workshop. 

Excited to be finally able to sport bare legs! Hello Spring!

Late night Mexican after a day of fashion week shows. The most delicious guac & chips from Wilbur Mexicana.

Always on the look out for pretty blooms!

As of Late

Unfortunately I've been dealing with a computer crash all week, which is disrupting my posting schedule. Not ideal, but don't you worry- pretty pictures will be shared today! Here are a few updates of life lately. There is an abundance of pink going on and I couldn't be happier! 

A pretty-as-can-be red velvet cake from brunch at The Windsor Arms.

Still gushing over all the prettiness at MoRoCo Chocolat's Sip & See event held last week!

Acai bowls are one of my favourite things to eat! This weather has me craving one daily.

I'm so excited about finally shedding the winter coat and sporting sneakers and light jackets.

La Boulange deliveries in bed are always welcomed! Thanks Mom!

Follow @gabpacifico for similar updates.

Bedside Inspiration

I think I officially have the winter blues. The temperatures this past week have been just insane (we're talking -20 degrees Celsius) so I have pretty much been in hibernation mode! Since there is no escaping the cold I have restyled my nightstand in the theme of one my favourite cities, Paris. My nightstand is the first thing I see in the morning and usually the last thing I see before I doze off, so it should be fresh, inspiring and clean. 

Here are a few tips to keep your nightstand Parisian inspired:

Have fresh cut flowers to brighten the space. 

Light a romantic candle.

Have reading material and writing tools at the ready.

A scent diffuser to keep the space fresh. 

Display your favourite things; a pair of shoes, a motivating print or a brooch. Pretty things are not meant to be stored away in boxes!

Catch all tray or macaron box to store dainty necklaces or rings.

A cafe au lait for leisurely reading in bed.  

{l'amour print, book, macaron trinket box, notebook, perfume, shoes (similar)}

Find my DIY Headboard here. 

Glitzmas Party

A true glitzmas would not be complete without gold glitter, sweet treats and pink roses. 

This year's party was seriously one of the best yet, and although all the glitter and cookies contribute, it's really because I have an amazing group of girlfriends that are not only hilarious and incredibly generous, but are beautiful inside and out and loving beyond words.

Keep reading for tips on throwing an affordable but fabulous Christmas party!

DECOR 

Plan: First thing's first- you need to pick a theme, or colour scheme, or establish some guidelines for the event. It really helps to narrow down choices while shopping, and it helps to focus in on your ideas. I always sit down with my notebook and make lists of all my ideas- everything I want to serve and bake, and just go from there. This year I went with a pink and gold glitter theme (for obvious reasons). Naturally I began with the dessert buffet; not only are they for indulging purposes, but they are also creative masterpieces! 

Table runner: No, I wasn't going to spend $30 on sequin fabric to put on the dessert buffet. It would have been lovely, but so not in my budget. I picked up some gold chevron wrapping paper from Target for under $5 and taped it down to act as a table runner. Très chic, non? 

Wall art: I like to have some element of decoration above the dessert table. It pulls the look together and creates a focal point in the room. I attached pink and gold ornaments to gold string and hung them from the ceiling at different lengths.  Also, I purchased a "Happy Holidays" banner from Target to match the glitter theme. The gold ball banner is from Michaels, and I scored it at half price. Always print a coupon before going to Michaels, people! 

Extras: It's the little extras that pull the theme together. Pink and red straws, pink napkins, red berries, mini glitter Christmas trees, and these DIY gold vases and candlesticks.  I even tried to stick with similar serving ware to maintain the look throughout the rooms. And never forget the flowers! They add a touch of elegance and freshen up the room. 

DESSERTS

My girlfriends know anytime they are coming over desserts will be had. I get a lot of requests for certain desserts (hem… peanut butter balls) throughout the year, but refuse to make them any other time than the holidays. It makes it more special since it's a little tradition we have.

This year the dessert buffet was stocked with White Chocolate Stuffed Ginger Molasses cookies, Hello Dollies, Secret Kisses, Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Squares, homemade Turtles, candied pecans,  and massive dipped marshmallows for the hot chocolate bar. Don't worry if you don't have time to bake.; bakery goods are just as delicious and chances are someone will bring dessert. 

Bar: Drinks are essential, and sweets and cocktails go hand in hand. I finally put my vintage champagne coupes to use and had a little bar tray at the ready, with some berries to garnish. We also had a winter white sangria and a continuous flow of wine. 

ACTIVITIES 

This is not a necessity, but it's nice to have a distraction from all the eating. 

In between the presents and girl talk, we treated ourselves at the DIY {alcoholic} Hot Chocolate station (with all the fixings), and a cookie decorating station. The hot chocolate station was delicious… I mean, who doesn't love vodka infused whipped cream? The girls also loved the cookie decorating station and it acted as a party favor (more on that here). As the night dwindled down we put on Love Actually and moved the party to the couch. 

 As you can see, for me it's all about incorporating little elements together that have a large impact.  I hope these simple yet valuable tips will help you throw the ultimate girls Glitzmas!