Weekend in the Hamptons with Romio App

July 20, 2017

Hi, guys! Sorry for my absence on the blog! I've been traveling since Friday and just came back into town yesterday. I spent this past weekend in the Hamptons with Romio, a start up that's created an app where you can find local service recommendations from your personal network without the hassle of weeding through online reviews from strangers. As you know, we haven't launched to the public yet, so we want people to understand that the version we have on the app store is only for preview. After the Hamps, I went straight up to Connecticut to shoot my very first fashion editorial shoot! Being the creative director as well as the photographer was incredible on so many levels, I cannot WAIT to show you my latest work! But back to Romio, several other influencers/bloggers and I stayed in a gorgeous $20 million mansion in Bridgehampton where we partook in a variety of activities ranging from a killer pool party all-day Saturday, a yoga class, and circuit training class, flower-crown making, cocktail creating to even a pajama party! We even had our own personal chef each night for dinner! You can definitely say we had quite the decadent weekend, come take a look at more photos and read more about our amazing trip!

Photo Credit: Mauricio Jorquera — Photo Credit: **Mauricio Jorquera**

We got in on Friday night after a four-hour bumper-to-bumper bus ride to the house from the city. Located in the heart of Bridgehampton, we unwinded with the perfect aperitif: an Aperol Spritz! We learned how to make our own while Chef William Lawrence, who runs the Meatball Shop in Chelsea, cooked up a storm of roasted chicken with a fresh quinoa salad and sauteed bok choy. Everything was super fresh and delicious, and I had the best company to share my meal with! We then capped the night off with our very own pajama party and a late night pool sesh where I better got to know the people in the house and overall, just enjoyed the vibes and setting on top of making new memories :)

Photo credit: Layers of Chic Hat by: Artesano // Dress by: Gwen Salakaia — Photo credit: **Layers of Chic** Hat by: **Artesano** // Dress by: **Gwen Salakaia**

On Saturday, we took an amazing yoga class held by Layne Averill, a West Village-based yoga instructor, who not only helped me appreciate yoga more but also brought back so much balance into my life. The session helped reset my perspective and better understand my way of life and what I needed to do in order to maintain that healthy balance throughout the non-stop chaos. The yoga class was followed by circuit training with personal trainer J.R Allen, who literally turned my core and legs into Jello! After an intense morning workout, I was more than ready for the all-day pool party at the house. I loved the fact that the pool party wasn't too crazy or too chill, with just the right amount of fun and energy blending in. The crowd was lit and I had a really great time meeting and networking with other like-minded creative types. I met other influencers, bloggers, writers, photographers, (I do have a thing for them... ha ha ha!) stylists, creative directors and more.

Photo Credit: Angel Zheng Hat by: Artesano // Bikini by: Triangl // Sarong by: Rujuta Sheth — Photo Credit: **Angel Zheng** Hat by: **Artesano** // Bikini by: **Triangl** // Sarong by: **Rujuta Sheth**

After the pool party died down, we had a late dinner cooked by Chef Nick Lagalante with a concoction of jumbo shrimp, charred corn on the cob (my fave), Caprese salad, grilled asparagus, mixed bean salad, chicken kabobs, and a radicchio salad. It was such a scrumptious summer meal! I loved the corn so much I had two! After dinner, we kept the party going, dancing the night away with Latin music and whiskey nightcaps. I'm not one to stay up too late anymore with my super early mornings, but each night in the Hamptons I didn't go to bed until around 3 so I definitely didn't get enough sleep! But oh the fun we had!

Photo credit: Angel Zheng Bikini by: Victoria's Secret // Kimono by: Rosegal — Photo credit: **Angel Zheng** Bikini by: **Victoria's Secret** // Kimono by: **Rosegal**

Sunday we all slept in before brunch followed by makeup done by the talented Kornelija Slunjski and flower crown making thanks to Urban Stems, an amazing flower delivery service based in New York City. With an assortment of roses, succulents, calla lilies and more, the girls and I had a great time creating their very own unique crowns! While the boys played tennis, we had fun sipping on rosé and playing with beautiful flowers while shooting content. We then had another cocktail class learning how to make the classic French 75: gin, champagne, lemon juice and sugar. I know it sounds strange but it's actually quite refreshing! Sometimes the gin is substituted with cognac.

Photo Credit & Flower Crown by: Sarah Stannard — Photo Credit & Flower Crown by: **Sarah Stannard**

After all the festivities, I took one final dip in the pool. How cute is this striped one piece by Mei L'Ange? I'm thinking of doing a couple of style posts from some of these Hamptons outfits, what do you guys think? I know a lot of you on Instagram have asked mostly about the sundress and one piece, perhaps you'll see these and more of its details on the blog very soon?

Lastly, I want to give you a little insight from what I learned from this trip as I believe every time you travel, either near or far from home, you learn something about yourself. And I've discovered how imperative my "alone time" is for me. Even on the first morning in the Hamptons, I took a nice long stroll around the property not only to scout for good locations to shoot in but to also spend time with my thoughts and reflect. I don't get to do that often and it's nice to do it from time to time. I feel like it keeps me grounded while at the same time never forgetting where I come from as well. I've come far from where I started, and since starting MaQ + Suz in early August of 2015, I'm extremely humbled by all the experiences I've had on top of my personal growth. I can't wait to see what the future holds, but it's looking pretty bright. Stay tuned for more upcoming posts this week! I have so much to catch up on. Catch Y'all soon!

Photo Credit: Layers of Chic // Swimwear by: Mei L'ange — Photo Credit: **Layers of Chic** // Swimwear by: **Mei L'ange**

Self-Portrait, July 15th, 7:56 a.m // Cashmere Top by: Zynni Cashmere — **Self-Portrait**, July 15th, 7:56 a.m // Cashmere Top by: **Zynni Cashmere**

LOVE & XX'S,

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Summer Longline Trench Blazer

July 10, 2017

WEARING: NATIVE YOUTH LONGLINE CRESCENT TRENCH BLAZER | 
VAGABOND HONEY BRISBANE BODY SUIT | PERIDOT BOUTIQUE IVORY CHAIN TASSEL EARRINGS |
 PERIDOT BOUTIQUE MIA MID RISE JEANS | PERIDOT BOUTIQUE LOAFER SLIDES | 
MICHAEL KORS MERCER LEATHER CROSSBODY | GUCCI BELT

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY NATIVE YOUTH & PERIDOT BOUTIQUE.

Happy Monday! How was everyone's weekend? I worked a lot, two photo shoots, running around getting ready for the upcoming week, will be doing some traveling here and there for creating content and to do my first fashion editorial as the head creative director and photographer. I'm really excited to shoot! Also, New York Men's Fashion Week is happening right now, and I'll be attending a few shows/previews and events so be sure to check it all out on my Insta-Stories! Today's post is focused on lightweight jackets/blazers for the office when it's hot outside but freezing inside. The struggle is real! And how gorgeous is this gray, longline trench blazer from Native Youth?! Let me show you the rest of the look!

The Crescent Blazer is a lightweight outerwear piece, ideal for the transition to spring-summer. This longline jacket comes in a classic gray colorway and features functional front pockets. The Crescent coat also comes with an interesting split on the center back hem for an interesting take on summer outerwear. It's perfect for running around while working indoors, especially when they want to crank the A/C on full blast! Chilly vibes, much? I also am crazy about the color, as I do not have a long trench blazer in a gray color, now I need a variety in different colors ha ha!

I styled the jacket with a black bodysuit from Vagabond Honey (has an almost backless view which is oh so breezy in hotter weather) and a pair of mid-rise jeans from Peridot Boutique. Peridot Boutique is located in the lower Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle, WA and has some really great, affordable trendy pieces. I love their collection so much, this outfit features many other accessories aside from the jacket and jeans! These ivory chain tassel earrings and super-comfy black loafer slides are also from Peridot Boutique.

My new favorite leather crossbody bag is from Michael Kors. I love its size and shape, polishing up any look, either casual or a little bit fancy, it makes any outfit chicer! To bring a small tinge of luxury, I styled the jeans with an embossed navy blue Gucci belt. It's my go-to belt, I'm sure you've seen it a few times in many outfit posts, but what can I say I'm in love with my belt and it works pretty much with anything! What do you guys think of this office-inspired look? Have a great Monday and the rest of your week! Catch ya soon!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Native Youth Longline Grey Crescent Trench Blazer

Peridot Boutique Chain Tassel Earrings Ivory

Peridot Boutique Mia Mid Rise Relaxed Skinny Jeans

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Detroitish

June 29, 2017

WEARING: INK DETROIT TEE | DEZZAL ASSYMETRIC MERMAID SKIRT | 
& OTHER STORIES FISHNET SOCKS | HUSH PUPPIES MAZIN CAYTO NUBUCK BOOTS 
| STELLA & DOT GOLD AND BLACK FRINGE NECKLACE

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY DEZZAL, HUSH PUPPIES & STELLA & DOT.

DETROIT IS LIKE ROCK AND ROLL. IT'S LIKE SOUL. DETROIT IS THE WHOLE IDEA OF COOL. IF YOU HAVE TO EXPLAIN IT TO SOMEONE, THEY PROBABLY WON'T UNDERSTAND. YOU HAVE TO SEE IT. LIVE IT. BE IT. THAT'S WHEN DETROIT STARTS TO MOVE YOU.

Hello, my darlings! Are you excited for the long holiday weekend? Summer time and the livin' is easy... or so to speak. Got any special plans? I used to be a huge fan of the Fourth of July when my pops was around, but his passing, which was a few days after Independence Day, has changed my ways of celebrating. I used to go out and watch the fireworks, but since he's been gone, I find it too hard to do, let alone celebrate anything. I'm a very private person and getting myself to open up to you guys has been challenging, and quite frankly, a little terrifying. Af first I thought no one would listen. No one would care. But as time has gone on, I have become more courageous in telling my story. Am I ready to tell-all? Oh hell, nah. Some things are better left unsaid. But with baby steps and perhaps when the timing is right, I believe I will slowly but surely share more about myself. In today's post, I'll be discussing two topics. One, how to get through jury duty easily and as painlessly as possible. And two, I'll be talking about copycats and if imitation really is the best form of flattery.

Miraculously I only served jury duty for one day. Now before you go and get your hopes up, know that most cases you'll serve for at least 2-3 days. But some of the tips I'm about to give you has nothing to do with getting out of it faster. It is a civic duty and most of us take it for granted. Just like paying your taxes or voting in this country, it is something you have to do. But while you're stuck at the courthouse for eight hours a day, why not have it go as fast as possible? So instead of twiddling your thumbs while you watch the clock, bring a shit ton of reading materials, whether, on your iPad, or a newspaper and/or a book, you're going to have to keep that mind of yours occupied. Not much of a reader? (We can't be friends if you're not... haha JK!) You can play games or stay engaged on social media with your phone or laptop. Or you can do what I did, the moment I sat down at 9 am sharp, I whipped out my laptop and went straight to work.

Another tip while serving jury duty? If you're a heavy snacker like me (I don't eat 3 square meals a day, but rather on average, snack non-stop throughout the day instead... a heavy lunch makes me lethargic, and as Gordon Gekko once said, "lunch is for wimps") make sure to bring a lot of single dollar bills for the vending machine. You can't bring in food or drinks through security (just like the airport) so be prepared to have some singles to get through the day and to keep your belly happy. Bathrooms and the courts, in general, are pretty skeevy so be sure to bring hand sanitizer. Sometimes the bathrooms will have no more soap or paper towel to dry your hands, so even keeping a package of tissues with you would be good. Lastly, bring a jacket or cardigan especially if you serve during the summer because they normally crank the AC full blast in these buildings, especially in the courtrooms.

And now onto copycatting. I've been reading a lot from other bloggers and influencers about their frustrations in others copping their creative concepts or even worse, flat out re-doing the same shit they saw someone else do. (literally from head-to-toe outfits, same travel itineraries and more.) I've even read somewhere about influencers wanting to copyright their own work. Guess what, folks? Most creative ideas and/or concepts have been done since the dawn of time and have been recycled and done over and over again but in different ways. So when it comes to fashion, no, nothing is exactly your own invention. There may be inspirational or admirable factors (and yes, the dreadful SWF factor... I've experienced it and it's creepy AF), but to think you were the first to come up with an idea, you better think again. The challenge is to try and find something that hasn't been done before and actually seeking out to do it! I can't tell you how many times I've seen others try to do what others do, and it's cute, perhaps even flattering to some, but don't hold it against them. Why? Because... YOU are YOU, and that is your POWER. They can try all they want to be like you, but at the end of the day, that'll never be.

Going back to my roots in Detroit, as a kid, I used to get made fun of for liking X-Men comic books and wanting to go out and be Batman rather than Cinderella. When I hit adolescence, I was known for being, 'flat as a board', 'chink', and other derogatory names I don't feel worthy of mentioning. Fast forward to now, half of the kids that used to pick on me are now trolling through each and every one of my Insta Stories and through my other social media channels. I've never received an apology, nor do I ever expect one, but now I think it's all comical. Why are they watching? Because I'm doing me and they're doing them, and I can guarantee my life is much more interesting than it was back in high school. I see 'em, but I don't acknowledge them. The same goes for anyone who can't be true to themselves. Why do you want to be anyone other than yourself? One of the most powerful tools to have in life is authenticity! Without it, there's really not much else to go by. So is imitation the best form of flattery? Nope. Don't be basic. (As the 'millennials' call it.) Here's something to go by, INSPIRE, NOT IMITATE.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Stella & Dot Gold & Black Fringe Necklace

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Sweet Williams on Memorial Day

May 29, 2017

WEARING: & OTHER STORIES DENIM JACKET | TOBI LOVE GAME WHITE SHIFT DRESS | 
MAD-STYLE TALL METALLIC GEO TOTE BAG | PUMA VIKKY GREY PLATFORM SNEAKER 
MAD-STYLE TRANSLUCENT CATEYES SUNGLASSES | CLAIRE'S SATIN BOW CHOKER | 
VIP ME DENIM & CHAIN FRINGE CHOKER NECKLACE

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY TOBI.

SWEET WILLIAMS FLOWERS ARE AT THE CENTER OF MANY ROMANTIC LEGENDS.

One such legend is steeped in the poetry of the English writer John Gay, who wrote, “Sweet William’s Farewell to Black-ey’d Susan: A Ballad.” In this piece of poetry, both the sweet William and the black-eyed Susan were depicted as real people – Sweet William as a sailor and the black-eyed Susan as his beloved, who must part from him. The story tells of the two meeting, then having to separate again – sweet William assuring his love and fidelity all the while. Sweet Williams flowers are one of the few blossoms that have symbols that most people associate with masculinity – their predominant symbol being that of gallantry. However, they also represent finesse and perfection and are frequently presented to the recipient as a way to tell him or her that the giver feels they are either quite smooth or simply as good as it gets. They also express the sentiment, “grant me a single smile,” and are sometimes given as gifts solely to make the recipient’s day. Sweet Williams flowers (yes, the flowers from this shoot are in fact, Sweet Williams!) have always reminded me of my grandparents. And the way they came together is not only over-the-top romantic, but fitting on a day like today... Memorial Day.

For those who do not know, I am half-Polish... given my dominant Eastern European last name (father's side). I feel like I need to inject this in now before I get going, you'll understand in a bit. My grandparents met like any typical teenagers do – amongst mutual friends. You see, my grandmother was dating a good friend of my grandfather's, but this quickly changed after they met. But wait, it doesn't end there. Before they could even begin courting each other, my grandfather was deployed to Paris during WWII. He served in the US Army Air Forces as a corporal lieutenant. Back then there was no texting, Facetime or social media. Even a long-distance phone call was pretty scarce. So, to remain in touch with my grandmother, my grandfather wrote her hand-written letters almost every day. Their correspondence to one another is what made them fall madly in love with each other.

At some point, the distance between them became too great. My grandmother could hardly stand it any longer and made her way to Paris to be with him. When they came back to the states not too long after that, they married. They had five children and were together for nearly 45 years. Sure they fought just like any couple, but they sure were crazy about each other. I feel like you don't hear that many legendary love stories anymore. Actually, the whole idea of dating in this day and age is rather frightening to me. While at an event this past week I struck a conversation with a woman who just moved to New York City a few months ago, and after a heart-wrenching breakup with her ex, she opted for Tinder, one of those dating apps, even though now there's so many of them for many different types of relationships, to sexual encounters, FWB, and yes, even 'real' relationships. And though Tinder is known for casual hookups, she ended up being in a relationship with the guy and is quite happy, it seems.

Is it like that for everyone? Definitely not. I was watching a documentary series late one night due to insomnia (over-working, stress & anxiety will do that to you) about the digital world and relationships. 1 out of 4 people who are in dating apps have trouble finding meaningful relationships due to 'too many options' out there. You have more and more women (and men) who are not willing to settle down and getting married. Younger women are more driven and independent than they've ever been. You have men who are literally sleeping with anything that has a pulse because they were the geek back in high school and now that they're all grown up with a successful job, it's payback time. For example, on the documentary series, there's a Las Vegas event planner who's basically in his forties and organizes pool parties for a living. He is single and thoroughly enjoys it being this way.

Was he the geek back in high school? No, but he was the 'nice guy', you know, the guy who wasn't necessarily a stud, but was nice enough to be your friend? Yeah, that guy. And then he went on to appear on a big reality show. After that, the nice guy was history. Women started throwing themselves at him all because he had been on TV (that and being mildly attractive probably didn't hurt) and a dickhead bachelor was born. But what makes this guy not the nice guy anymore is the way he treats the women he 'dates'. He will take a girl out a couple of times, sleep with her and then disappear. It is one thing to set clear intentions/boundaries, but what he did was misleading. He'd get them to believe they were something more than just a few dates, by taking the time to say and do all the right things men are supposed to do while courting a woman. And once he had them hooked, with a potential feeling of a 'maybe', he'd ghost them.

He even went as far as pretending like he didn't know a girl he was sleeping with for a few months. When she had tried to make contact with him after he ghosted her (meaning never responds to any messages) he replied with a, "who is this?" Luckily, the girl laid it on to him thick and told him how cowardly and hurtful his actions have been, going even as far as refusing to leave him alone until she met him face to face (this I would not make the time for), to express herself... and rightfully so! I find that the more options that are being provided within the digital world have caused people to act more selfishly than ever before. And romance? Forget about it, I feel like most of it is all for show. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of wonderful, good, decent men (yes, I've met some of them!) but in the new times we live in, and with endless choices when it comes to sex and relationships, I'm definitely missing the simplicity of authentic love amongst one another. Can't we write more hand-written notes anymore? If you're not feeling someone, can't you just be honest with them and give them that respect, especially when you know they'd do that for you? Since when did hurting others become a trend?

Now if you're not looking for anything serious and just want to have fun, that's completely okay. Just don't take advantage of people, being a jerk is never cool. How can someone like that guy look at himself in the mirror every morning? Thankfully after that girl confronted him, it made him think and change his ways. (Hopefully, because whatever is said on camera isn't necessarily done off-camera) With intention, this post will potentially give those some hope, that the real thing still does exists because I do continue to see it every day among others and through myself. And knowing you have a conscious – that you could never stoop to that kind of slimy low-level like that Vegas guy says something about you already, that you're better than that and because of it, you will go on to find better too. Never stop believing in love, my friends. Happy Memorial Day. xo.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Mad-Style Translucent Cateyes Sunglasses

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Oranges and Gingham

May 26, 2017

WEARING: ZAFUL GINGHAM ROMPER | YOINS GREEN BATCHEL BAG W/ CONTRAST TRIMS | 
ZARA CORK & LEATHER WEDGES | VINTAGE JADE HOOP EARRINGS | H&M WOODEN BANGLES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZAFUL & YOINS.

IT'S LIKE APPLES TO ORANGES, PEACHES TO PLUMS, YEAH, I'M BANANAS!

My last editorial was a bit somber and because it's also Friday, I wanted to share some more upbeat content. 'Cause life's also too damn short to sit around and feel sad all the time too, am I right? One thing I'm not too keen on expressing is my insecurities ['cause we all have 'em too (from time to time)] since most don't understand why I would be this way or that I'm just full of crap. To be brutally honest, I've had low self-esteem my whole life and though it does have a lot to do with my upbringing, I only have myself to blame. How did I get here? I was raised to believe that nothing I'd do would be ever good enough, that even "my best would never do", according to my father. Of course, that's stuck with me since he's said that to my face, and even though he's no longer with me, I'm still trying to prove him and the world wrong. That I am enough. That I matter. That I'm worth more than just a pretty face.

What's upbeat about this you might be thinking? Well... the more time and energy I'm investing in what I'm doing when it comes to digital content, the more proud and courageous I'm becoming in sharing with you more about me, and also perhaps breaking the rules here and there while you follow me along the way. Because since taking creative content as seriously as I do, I've simultaneously have been healing from all the things from the past that do make us insecure and not feeling like we belong anywhere. No, I didn't need validation from social media. Did I perhaps in my past seek that kind of approval from a man? Perhaps... because no one's perfect – at least I have the balls to admit to my flaws. I create for myself because I HAVE to. Without it, I'd probably go insane, bananas, if you will... and hearing from you guys every day is what helps keep me going. Your support has been tremendous and just knowing I have some affect in your lives means everything to me. It has been so inspiring and I couldn't have felt this good about myself without you!

Be sure though that feeling good about yourself starts within. When I first started doing more editorial like shoots for MaQ + Suz, I was trying to elevate my skills & strengths to a higher level. Because of course, this, in turn, would make me feel productive and then really great. But the more involved I became in my research with fashion & photography, the more I craved to produce visual stories and to try and mix things up by taking risks and continuing to challenge myself. And the more story-telling I do, the more confident I am in my capabilities. That perhaps what I am doing is sort of right, that readers actually dig my work. It is true what they say, keep your head held up high and don't let 'em knock you down. The way you carry yourself and the way you let others treat you says a lot about you, so start from within and know that doing you without any compromise will not only get you far, but being an unapologetic badass and sticking up for what you want will reward you with all the self-love in return.

With my upbeat take on myself, I wanted to do a shoot with fruit but very much in street style mode. And because of the warm colors, I wanted to do a little spin on some good ole' 70s vibes. Mixing in my California roots with my saucy attitude, this gingham romper by Zaful is so freaking cute and comfortable! I love how breathable it is for hotter days and the girly cut on the bottom of this romper is too adorable. I knew I had to style it with chunky bangles and big hoop earrings. To keep it kind of pin-up girl-ish, I stuck with my favorites cork wedges by Zara and did my hair in a high ponytail (because let's face it ladies, when it's that hot out, you just got to put your mane up). Lastly can we talk about how amazing this green bag is from Yoins?! Stylish, iconic and versatile — a clever hybrid of the Satchel and the Briefcase, the 'Batchel' is the newest addition to my bag fam! And one of many of the summer gang... What do you guys think of this look? And when it comes to the insecurities we all face from time to time, how do you cope with them? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this! Comment and shop the look down below – wishing you all a lovely weekend!