Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth

Author: Elizabeth

  • Review: The Little Mermaid Live-Action 2023

    Review: The Little Mermaid Live-Action 2023

    Credit: Disney

    Have you ever watched Disney’s The Little Mermaid? The classic animated tale of Ariel—the curious teenage mermaid who dreams of life above the waves—has enchanted audiences for decades. Despite her father King Triton’s warnings, Ariel falls for a human prince and risks everything to be with him. Her fateful deal with the sea witch Ursula sets off a chain of events that test love, sacrifice, and identity. It’s one of those timeless Disney stories that stays with you long after the credits roll.

    When I was little, The Little Mermaid was my movie. I wore out the VHS, sang along to every song (badly, I’m sure), and dreamed of being part of Ariel’s world. So when I heard that Disney was bringing the story to life again—this time with Halle Bailey as Ariel—I felt that same spark of excitement.

    I’ll admit, I was hesitant. Disney’s live-action remakes have been a mixed bag. But from the moment Halle appeared on screen, I knew this one was different. Her performance was pure magic. I actually teared up in the theater—seeing a young Black woman as a Disney princess on the big screen was powerful.

    When I was a little girl, my ballet teacher once gave me a bag with a Black ballerina printed on it. That small gesture meant everything because, back then, representation like that was rare. I still have that bag. Sitting in the theater, watching Halle Bailey as Ariel, I couldn’t help but think of my younger self—how much it would’ve meant to see someone who looked like me in a role like this.

    Halle Bailey was a great choice. She brought Ariel’s innocence, strength, and wonder to life while adding a modern grace that felt completely her own. And her voice? Absolutely breathtaking. It was such a beautiful touch to see Jodie Benson, the voice of the animated Ariel,, the original voice of Ariel, make a cameo—a quiet, graceful passing of the torch.

    Sure, I would’ve loved to see her hair a bit more vibrantly red (the iconic mermaid look!), but honestly, it didn’t matter. Between the stunning underwater visuals and Halle’s performance, I was all in.

    Credit: Jodi Benson

    If you’ve become a fan of hers, she mentioned a few upcoming projects in a recent Cosmopolitan magazine interview.

    Speaking of standout performances, Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric completely surprised me. His portrayal gave Eric more depth than ever before—and his new solo song, “Wild Uncharted Waters,” gave me chills. I loved how both characters shared the same yearning for freedom and self-discovery. It made their love story feel more balanced, more real. I can’t wait to see what other movies he’ll be in!

    Credit: ALAMY; PIERRE VILLARD/SIPA/SHUTTERSTOCK

    I really liked Ariel’s sisters, and I wish we could’ve seen more of them! They were all beautiful and full of potential, but their scenes felt fleeting. Hopefully, if there’s ever a sequel (please, Disney?), we’ll dive deeper into their stories.

    Credit: Euro ES Euro
    Credit: L: Matt Winkelmeyer/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images. R: Screenshot Disney+

    And can we take a moment to appreciate Jessica Alexander as Vanessa—Ursula’s glamorous alter ego? She nailed the perfect mix of beauty and menace. As for our beloved sidekicks—Sebastian, Scuttle, and Flounder—I know their realistic CGI designs divided fans, but I found them charming in their own quirky way. “The Scuttlebutt,” their new musical number, might not be for everyone, but I thought it was hilarious and delightfully chaotic—exactly what a kids’ movie moment should be.

    Credit: Disney

    Javier Bardem as King Triton was another pleasant surprise. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel seeing the No Country for Old Men star as Ariel’s father, but he brought a tenderness and quiet strength that made Triton feel more human. I also loved the added backstory—learning that Ariel’s mother was killed by a human gave their conflict much more weight. Oh, and discovering that Ursula and Triton are siblings! Genius.

    Speaking of Ursula, Melissa McCarthy played the role of the evil sea witch. She brought some comedy to the role, and I thought she did a great job paying homage to the original, but I didn’t think she added too much besides some funny moments.

    Credit: Disney

    All in all, Disney’s The Little Mermaid live-action remake was everything I hoped for and more—a love letter to the original, but with a bold, inclusive twist for a new generation. And I’m clearly not the only one who feels this way—it’s sitting at an impressive 94% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

    If you haven’t seen it yet, trust me: grab some popcorn, hum along to “Part of Your World,” and let yourself be swept away.

    Because sometimes, magic really does happen under the sea. 🐚✨

    Buy me a coffee ❤
  • My Favorite Baby Products as a First-Time Mom ☕💛

    My Favorite Baby Products as a First-Time Mom ☕💛

    Hey there, mama (and all the wonderful helpers out there)!
    Welcome in — I’m so glad you’re here. When I became a first-time mom, I quickly learned that finding the right baby gear can feel like a full-time job.

    Every baby and family is different, but these are the products that made our days a little smoother, easier, and happier. Maybe some of these will make your life easier too — or at least give you some registry inspiration.

    So grab a warm cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive in! ☕

    🍼 WillowGo Pump

    Oh, the WillowGo Pump — where do I even start? I wish I had started using it sooner. This cordless, hands-free pump gave me so much freedom. No more being stuck next to an outlet or tangled in cords. I could take walks, do laundry, or comfort my baby while pumping — total game-changer.

    Pro tip: Start with a regular (plug-in) pump when your milk first comes in, then switch to something cordless like this once your supply is established. The convenience is unmatched.

    It’s an investment, but my insurance helped cover part of it — and if that’s not an option for you, there are plenty of great, budget-friendly cordless pumps available too.

    💡 Bonus tip: Keep a manual pump by your bedside for those middle-of-the-night feeds. It’s a quiet lifesaver!

    🤱 BabyBjörn Baby Carrier One

    I wanted to love babywearing from day one — and once I found the right carrier, I did!

    I started with the Solly baby wrap, which was soft and cozy but tricky to tie when I was running on coffee and four hours of sleep. Eventually, I switched to the BabyBjörn Baby Carrier One, and it made all the difference.

    It’s structured, easy to use, and has a removable newborn seat that adjusts as your little one grows (up to about three years old!). It’s comfortable for both of us and perfect for walks, errands, or just getting things done at home.

    Looking back, I probably would’ve gone straight for this carrier from the start. It’s that good.

    🧼 Dr. Brown’s Clean Steam Baby Bottle and Pacifier Sterilizer and Dryer

    I wasn’t sure if I needed a sterilizer at first — but now I can’t imagine going without it. The Dr. Brown’s Clean Steam Sterilizer and Dryer saves so much time and peace of mind.

    It sanitizes, dries, and stores bottles, pacifiers, and pump parts all in one cycle. No more towel drying or guessing if something’s really clean. It’s become part of my daily routine, and I love it.

    🛁 Soft & Snuggly Bath Time Favorites

    Bath time is one of my favorite parts of the day — baby giggles, splashes, and that sweet clean-baby smell.

    I absolutely love the Norwex washcloths washcloths. They’re OEKO-TEX® certified (meaning tested for harmful substances) and some of the softest cloths we own. It’s comforting to know that I can trust this product to be safe for my little one.

    For towels, I found a super soft, budget-friendly option on Temu that’s been a hit. Sometimes I toss it in the dryer before bath time so it’s warm and cozy — my baby lights up when I wrap him in it.

    🎹 Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym

    This one was a surprise hit! My baby wasn’t into his first playmat, but the Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym? He loves it.

    Watching him kick the piano keys and smile at the lights never gets old. It keeps him engaged longer than any other toy so far — definitely worth adding to your registry.

    🌿 Oilogic Baby Vapor Bath

    When my little guy came down with his first cold, the Oilogic Baby Vapor Bath was a lifesaver. I bathed him two or three times a day when he wasn’t feeling well, and it truly seemed to help ease his symptoms.

    It made those tough sick days a little softer — and gave both of us some much-needed comfort.

    💭 Final Thoughts & Little Extras

    If you’re building your Amazon Baby Registry, keep an eye out for sales and the 15% completion discount — I waited for both and saved quite a bit!

    If I could go back, I’d add an outdoor play yard (especially since I had my son in May — perfect for sunny days!), and of course, stock up on diapers, wipes, and baby Tylenol.

    Motherhood is messy, magical, and full of learning curves — and finding products that make it smoother is such a gift. I hope some of these finds help you too.

    If you’ve tried any of these or have your own must-haves, I’d love to hear from you in the comments. Sharing what works is one of the best parts of this journey.

    Thanks for stopping by — and if you enjoyed this post, feel free to send me a coffee ❤ — it keeps the writing (and the mom-ing) going! ☕

    Send me a coffee ❤

  • My Pregnancy Favorites: What Truly Helped Me Along the Way

    My Pregnancy Favorites: What Truly Helped Me Along the Way

    I’m so excited to share a few of the things that made my pregnancy journey just a little smoother (and a lot more comfortable). Whether you’re expecting, planning, or simply curious, I hope my experience gives you a few ideas to tuck away for your own path.

    🌿 Ritual Prenatal Vitamins

    If there’s one thing I’ve stayed consistent with from pregnancy through postpartum, it’s my Ritual Prenatal Vitamins. They not only helped me feel confident that my baby was getting what he needed, but even my lactation consultant noticed them during my hospital stay! She was so impressed that she said she wanted to order some for herself — and honestly, I wasn’t surprised.

    I still take them now because they’ve become part of my daily wellness routine. The ingredients are clean, thoughtfully sourced, and backed by science — which makes me feel good about what I’m putting into my body.

    🧼 Norwex Cleaning Products

    I have to give a little nod to my Norwegian roots here — my grandpa was Norwegian, so discovering Norwex felt a bit like coming home. I love their mission to reduce harmful chemicals in the home. During pregnancy, it gave me such peace of mind knowing I could keep things clean without worrying about what I was breathing in or touching.

    I still use their cleaning cloths and products daily. They’re effective, long-lasting, and honestly kind of addicting once you get started.

    👟Dr. Scholl’s Leather Kiltie Tassel Slip-on Flats

    Oh, these shoes! I wore them constantly during pregnancy — and still do. The memory foam made them so comfortable, and not having to bend down to tie or buckle anything was a total game-changer. I loved them so much that I ended up buying three pairs (yes, three!).

    Sadly, this exact style isn’t available anymore, but Dr. Scholl’s has some similar slip-ons that are just as comfy and practical. If you’re expecting or chasing a toddler around, trust me — your feet will thank you.

    📖 Bringing Up Bebé

    This book was such an interesting read! While I haven’t put much into practice just yet, I found the differences between French and American parenting styles fascinating. One chapter that really stuck with me talked about how daycare in France is seen as a positive — a way for children to grow independent and social, not as something to feel guilty about.

    Now that I’m back at work after maternity leave, that perspective has been comforting. It’s a gentle reminder that independence can be a gift, even from an early age.

    Pink Stork Nausea Sweets

    If you’ve ever experienced morning sickness (or in my case, all-day sickness), you know the struggle. I came across Pink Stork Nausea Sweets early in my pregnancy, and even though I couldn’t use them as often because of my diabetes, they were such a lifesaver.

    They’re gentle, effective, and actually taste good — a rare combo when you’re feeling queasy. Keep a few in your bag, along with some trusty saltine crackers. Your future self will thank you.

    Aveeno Baby Cleansing Therapy Moisturizing Wash

    During pregnancy, I developed the PUPPS rash (and wow, was it uncomfortable). This Aveeno wash, along with Benadryl, offered much-needed relief. It’s soothing, gentle, and helped calm my skin during those long, itchy nights. If you’re dealing with something similar, I hope it brings you some comfort too.

    🏊‍♀️ Fitness: Swimming

    Swimming was an absolute godsend for me during my pregnancy! I’d get in the water and feel my aches melt away.

    As a diabetic, I also found it helped regulate my blood sugar throughout the day, which was a huge plus. Whether you’re pregnant or just looking for a gentle way to move your body, I can’t recommend swimming enough. It’s restorative in every sense of the word.

    Every pregnancy is different, and what worked for me might look a little different for you — but I hope these little discoveries make your journey a bit easier. 💕

    If you have any favorite products, books, or tips that helped you, please share them in the comments below! I’d love to hear what’s worked for you (and maybe add a few things to my own list).

    Let’s cheer each other on and make this season as calm, joyful, and supported as it can be.

    ☕ Until next time — sending love, strength, and maybe a warm cup of tea your way

    Send me a tea ❤

  • Our Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: Travel Fails, Laughs, and Lessons from Paradise

    Our Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: Travel Fails, Laughs, and Lessons from Paradise

    Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: When Paradise Goes Wrong 😅

    Excited to Travel Again… Until Maui Had Other Plans

    After months of wedding planning, we were beyond thrilled to be traveling again — and what better destination for a honeymoon than Maui, Hawaii? 🌺

    I can’t help but laugh as I write this because, while Hawaii is usually paradise for everyone, our honeymoon didn’t exactly go as planned. From resort mix-ups to transportation troubles, we somehow turned paradise into a series of unfortunate (and hilarious) events.

    A Promising Start in Paradise

    After our wedding-day chaos, we were ready for smooth sailing. Our flights were perfectly on time, luggage intact, and we were greeted in Maui with a beautiful flower lei from our travel agent. Everything seemed perfect.

    We checked into Mana Kai Maui Resort, thrilled by the ocean view and ready for the ultimate romantic getaway. The resort’s tagline — “Where heaven meets earth” — soon became an inside joke between us, because what followed was… not exactly heavenly. 😂

    1. Resort Restaurant & Store Closed

    Upon arrival, we learned that the resort’s restaurant, bar, and general store had all closed weeks earlier. Since we hadn’t rented a car, thinking we’d spend most of our time relaxing at the resort, this was not ideal.

    After our long 10-hour trip, we decided to deal with it the next morning.

    Highlight: We woke up early, walked down to the beach, and soaked in the sunrise. The warm breeze, golden sand, and sound of the waves turned into one of the best moments of our trip.

    2. The Mystery of the “Honeymoon Package”

    The next morning, I asked the front desk about our honeymoon package — champagne, chocolates, and macadamia nuts — which we had prepaid for. They claimed to have no record of it and asked for proof!

    Two days (and several emails from our travel agent) later, a grocery-store bottle of champagne and a bag of nuts arrived at our room. Not quite what we imagined!

    Then, to top it off, they said they could only hold our luggage until 4 p.m. on our departure day — even though our flight wasn’t until later. After more confusion (and some persistence from our travel agent), we were finally allowed to stay until 8 p.m.

    Highlight: That evening’s Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise was amazing! The couple who hosted it went above and beyond with live music, dancing, and Hawaiian history. The sunset views were stunning, even without the whales. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Maui! This is a low key event. Very small. So keep that mind.

    3. Stranded at the Lavender Farm 🌸

    Our next adventure took us to the Kula Botanical Garden, which was cute but still recovering from storm damage. Then we headed to Ali‘i Kula Lavender Farm, a beautiful (though smaller than expected) spot filled with the scent of lavender and a cute gift shop.

    Afterward, we planned to head to Maui Wine — but soon discovered there were no taxis or rideshares available in the area. After asking the staff for help, we were told cars rarely came out that far.

    We ended up walking for 30 minutes down the hill in the hot sun (not exactly dressed for hiking!) before finding a driver. Our winery reservation time had passed, but at least we made it back to the resort in one piece.

    Highlight: Our driver — originally from Poland — kept us entertained with conspiracy theories about Eastern Europe the entire ride back. He even recommended the resort’s “amazing restaurant,” not realizing it had closed. 😂

    4. The Beach Massage Disaster 💆‍♀️

    After all that, we decided to book a couples massage by the beach to relax. We confirmed everything by email — including that it would take place outdoors.

    When the masseuse arrived, she looked shocked and said, “You expected me to fit in here?!” Confused, we explained it was supposed to be on the beach. After some back-and-forth (and getting permission from the resort), she reluctantly set up on the most crowded part of the sand.

    It went downhill from there. The massage was… aggressive. When I asked for lighter pressure, she said, “Trust me, you don’t want it any lighter.” 😬 Let’s just say it wasn’t the peaceful spa moment we’d imagined. She even stuck her hand down my bikini bottoms.

    Highlight: She did manage to fix my neck pain — so at least there was that!

    The Bright Spots 🌴

    Despite the chaos, Maui still offered some unforgettable experiences:

    Sea Turtle Cove — Right by our resort. We spotted multiple sea turtles up close — a truly magical experience.

    Maui Tropical Express Tour — A must-try! Affordable, fun, and the best smoothie I’ve ever had.

    Ocean Vodka Distillery Tour — Educational and delicious. Fun fact: their chef once cooked for Tom Cruise! The poke bowl was incredible.

    Was our Maui honeymoon perfect? Not even close. But honestly, every mishap turned into a memory (and a funny story).

    If I could do it again, I’d double-check every detail — even when working with professionals. But sometimes, things just go wrong, and all you can do is laugh, stay flexible, and enjoy the ride.

    Here’s to future adventures — hopefully with fewer surprises! 😂

    Kula Botanical Garden
    Kula Botanical Garden
    Kula Botanical Garden
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ocean Vodka Distillery
    Sea Turtles
    Honorable Mention
    At the sea turtle cove!
    Ocean Vodka Distillery

    Send me a coffee! ❤
  • 4 Tips to Make Your Wedding Day Extra Special ✨💍

    4 Tips to Make Your Wedding Day Extra Special ✨💍

    No matter where you are in your wedding planning journey — freshly engaged, knee-deep in details, or just daydreaming — I hope this post brings you a little inspiration (and maybe a few calm, happy feels).

    I can still remember the butterflies and joy that filled those days leading up to my own wedding. Things didn’t always go exactly as planned (do they ever?), but the day turned out to be so full of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

    Today, I’m sharing four little things that made our celebration extra special — and I hope they help make your day just as magical. 💛

    💤 1. Have a Bridal Party Sleepover

    If you’re planning to spend the night apart from your partner before the big day, a bridal party sleepover is such a fun way to kick things off. It’s not just for kids anymore — it’s pure joy for grown-ups, too!

    The night before my wedding, my best friends and I stayed at the most beautiful local bed and breakfast. We ordered snacks, shared stories, laughed way too late, and soaked up those last few “before the aisle” moments together.

    The next morning, we got ready in that same cozy space — soft light streaming in through the windows, music playing, makeup brushes in hand, coffee cups nearby. The food was amazing, the vibe was calm, and the photos turned out absolutely gorgeous.

    It’s a memory I’ll hold close forever. If you’re on the fence about it — trust me — plan the sleepover. You’ll never regret it.


    💍 2. Include a Family Heirloom

    There’s something deeply meaningful about carrying a little piece of family history with you on your wedding day. It’s your something borrowed with a story behind it.

    For me, that meant including my grandparents’ wedding rings in my look. I wore them close to my heart on a delicate ring holder necklace (I found mine on Amazon, and I still wear it now — especially handy for days when I can’t wear my rings for work).

    Those rings have seen decades of love and life. Having them with me that day felt like my grandparents were right there, cheering us on. It added a layer of warmth and connection that made the day feel even more sacred.

    If you have a family piece — jewelry, fabric, a garter, a handkerchief — consider weaving it into your day. It’s a beautiful way to honor the love that helped shape yours.

    🎶 3. Cut the Music (in the Best Way)

    Here’s a tip I didn’t know I needed until my own wedding: you can cut your songs down to just your favorite parts!

    We worked with Elise Elm, who’s an absolute pro at music editing, and she created the perfect versions of our songs — about two minutes each. It kept the energy high, the moments sweet, and made our dances feel natural instead of nerve-wracking.

    The best part? We still got to enjoy the parts of the songs that meant the most to us. When I think back to our first dance, it’s the perfect length and memory — short, romantic, and completely us.

    If you’re feeling anxious about being on the dance floor too long, trimming your music might just be your secret weapon.

    💫 4. End the Night with a Last Dance
    Oh, the last dance. I’ll never forget ours.

    Whether you invite everyone to join you or keep it private between just the two of you, it’s the perfect way to close out your celebration. We chose a slow, romantic song and let ourselves soak in every second — the lights dim, the room softly humming with love and contentment.

    It was the sweetest transition into our grand exit and a beautiful reminder of what the whole day was about: us, together, beginning our forever.

    If you can, sneak in that last dance. It’s quiet magic.


    Image: IVORY+ ink

    💐 A Little Wedding Wisdom

    At the end of the day — even if the weather shifts, timelines blur, or something doesn’t go quite as planned — you’ll still be married to your favorite person. And that’s what truly matters.

    So take a breath, let the joy lead the way, and remember that the best moments are often the unplanned ones.

    I hope these ideas add a sprinkle of calm and creativity to your planning! I’d love to hear your thoughts — or any sweet traditions you’re including — in the comments below.

    Here’s to your beautiful day ahead, full of laughter, love, and maybe just a few happy tears.

    Send me a coffee ❤

  • Our Wedding Day: Lessons, Laughs, and a Little Chaos 💍✨

    Our Wedding Day: Lessons, Laughs, and a Little Chaos 💍✨

    Wow — where do I even begin? Our wedding day was truly one for the books. I originally planned to hop on here and share all the dreamy, picture-perfect moments, maybe with a few tiny hiccups sprinkled in for fun. But honestly? I could probably write an entire novel called “What Not to Do on Your Wedding Day.” 😂

    Don’t get me wrong — it was still the most magical, love-filled day of my life. There were heartwarming conversations with our guests, sweet stolen moments with my new husband, and so much laughter with our wedding party. But let’s just say… things got a little wild. I’m starting to think there might be something to that whole “Mercury in retrograde” theory!

    Still, I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything. Every mishap taught me something valuable, and today I’m sharing my honest lessons, a few giggles, and some tips to help your day go a little smoother than mine did.

    1. Double-Check Vendor Details 📋

    It might sound simple, but this one’s a biggie. Make sure every vendor has the exact and most up-to-date information — from timing to names to final details. Staff can change, and small miscommunications can turn into big surprises later.

    I recommend confirming everything in person if you can (or at least over a video call). Trust me, it’s worth the extra time.

    2. Make Detailed Lists (Like, Really Detailed) 📝

    Lists are your best friend — for you, your vendors, and anyone helping out. Be specific. Don’t just say “family photos.” Write out which family members you want in those photos. It’s amazing how much smoother things go when everyone has a clear game plan.

    3. Listen to Yourself 💛

    Your wedding day is your day. You’ll get tons of advice from friends, family, and Pinterest boards alike — but at the end of the day, you and your partner know what feels right. Follow that gut feeling. It’s the one voice that always knows what will make your heart happiest.

    4. Savor Every Moment 🌿

    No matter what happens — good, bad, or hilariously unexpected — soak it all in. You only get one “I do,” and even the messy parts become beautiful memories someday.

    The Behind-the-Scenes Scoop

    Alright, you asked for it — here’s the inside look at how our wedding day really went down. Spoiler alert: there were laughs, tears, and quite a few “are you kidding me?” moments. 😂

    The Suits Saga

    The day before our wedding, we went to pick up the suits from Men’s Wearhouse… and found out the groom and ring bearer’s sizes were all wrong. Cue the panic! Thankfully, we sorted it out the next morning and everyone looked perfect.

    My advice: Write down all your confirmed sizes and double-check once they arrive. A quick confirmation email can save a lot of stress later!

    Set-Up Surprises

    I went into wedding planning with an open mind, ready for suggestions. But looking back, I wish I had trusted my original vision a bit more. It would have made the day feel even more “us.”

    My advice: It’s okay to take help, but don’t lose sight of what you truly want. Print out inspiration photos, share them with your team, and delegate! A friend, sister, or bridesmaid who knows your vision can be a huge help on the big day.

    Morning-of Madness

    The morning of our wedding started out lovely — breakfast at a cozy bed and breakfast, coffee in hand, the whole vibe was calm… until it wasn’t. Between forgotten jewelry, missing hair clips, and a slightly awkward “you’re my favorite” joke gone wrong, the morning quickly became chaotic. 😅

    Then came the classic “forgot the ring at home” situation (yep, that happened) — but despite all the bumps, we still managed to laugh through it.

    My advice: Have your glam team come to you. Pack your essentials the night before. And assign a “runner” — someone who can grab any last-minute items so you can stay in the moment.

    Music Mishaps 🎶

    Ah, the ceremony music — this one still makes me cringe a little. My dad and I were called up to walk, but we were confused and thought we missed our cue. I rushed up the stairs, my tiara tilted, veil slightly crooked — and then realized the DJ was playing the wrong song.

    It was a 57-second track that looped awkwardly with breaks of silence between repeats. Not exactly the romantic soundtrack I envisioned!

    My advice: Confirm all music details with your DJ in person or on a quick call the day before. And if possible, have them attend the rehearsal. It makes all the difference. Our DJ was a kind person, so it’s too bad!

    Photos & The Great Family Shuffle 📸

    Our photos turned out beautiful — but we missed a lot of moments I really wanted. Not everyone was present for family portraits, and we couldn’t get to every guest table during the reception.

    My advice: Be specific on your photo list. Don’t just write “family photos” — name each person. This small detail ensures no special moment slips away.

    Catering & Cake 🍰

    Our caterer forgot to cut the pork loin, which led to a bit of chaos. And our wedding cake… let’s just say it wasn’t exactly what I ordered. Thankfully, the vendor made it right later with a complimentary replacement.

    My advice: Reconfirm your order details the week of the wedding. Even a quick email with reference photos can make sure everyone’s on the same page.

    Reception Rollercoaster 🎉

    After the ceremony… honestly, I have no idea what happened. 😂 The timeline went out the window! Family photos were missed, the slideshow never played, and dinner ran late. But despite it all, we laughed, danced, and made beautiful memories with our guests — some of whom traveled from 12 different states to be there. That love and support meant everything.

    My advice: Assign or hire a day-of coordinator to keep things running smoothly. It’s one of the best investments you can make.

    Looking Back 💫

    Even though our wedding and honeymoon didn’t go quite as planned (because of course it didn’t!), I’m choosing to see it all as part of our story. Every hiccup, every laugh, every imperfection — it all made our day perfectly us.

    Some have even suggested a small vow renewal in the future, and honestly? I love that idea. Maybe we’ll do a little “redo” one day.

    If you’re planning your wedding, my best advice is this: plan your heart out, but hold your plans loosely. Focus on what matters most — marrying your best friend and celebrating with the people you love. Everything else? Just part of the story. 💕

    If you’ve been through your own wedding adventures (or have some advice to share!), I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Let’s keep learning, crying, and laughing together — one love story at a time.

  • Adding a Little Magic: How We Made Our Own Wax Seals for Our Wedding Invitations

    Adding a Little Magic: How We Made Our Own Wax Seals for Our Wedding Invitations

    When I think back on our wedding planning days, one of my absolute favorite little projects was creating our wax seals for our invitations. There’s just something so timeless and romantic about that soft shimmer of wax pressed beneath a beautiful stamp. It feels like a love letter from another era — a small, delicate detail that makes your guests feel like they’re opening something truly special.

    And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy (and affordable!) to do yourself. My husband and I spent an afternoon making them together — music playing, coffee nearby, wax dripping across our table in the best kind of creative chaos. It became one of those unexpectedly cozy memories I’ll always treasure.

    If you’re ready to add that elegant, old-world touch to your wedding suite, here’s exactly how we did it.

    What You’ll Need

    • A wax seal stamp (we used one with our initials — so romantic!)
    • Sealing wax (available in glue stick form or as small beads)
    • A wax melting spoon or wax seal glue gun
    • A candle or heat source if you’re using a spoon
    • Your invitations and envelopes, ready for sealing

    How to Create Your Own Wax Seals

    1. Melt the Wax
      If you’re using a glue gun, insert your wax stick and let it heat up until the wax flows smoothly. If you’re using a spoon, add a few wax beads and hold it over a candle flame until the wax melts into a liquid. (This part always felt a bit like potion-making to me — slow, calming, and kind of magical.)
    2. Test the Texture
      Before you go all-in, do a quick test on a scrap piece of paper. The wax should pour smoothly — not too runny, not too thick. When it’s just right, you’re ready to start sealing!
    3. Pour and Press
      Carefully pour a small puddle of wax where you’d like the seal to go. Then, gently press your stamp into the center. Hold it in place for a few seconds — just long enough to let the wax cool and harden.
    4. The Grand Reveal
      Slowly lift your stamp… and there it is! Your first beautiful wax seal. (I may or may not have squealed with excitement the first time I saw ours.)

    Once we got the hang of it, we set up a little assembly line — one of us melting and pouring, the other stamping and admiring our handiwork. It turned out to be such a fun way to slow down and add a touch of us to every envelope.

    There’s something really special about these little seals — they don’t just close an envelope; they seal in your love, your excitement, and all those sweet moments leading up to your wedding day.

    If you try this, I’d absolutely love to see how yours turn out! Share your photos or tag me — there’s nothing quite like seeing other couples add their own creative flair.

    Happy sealing, friends 💌✨

  • A Little Disney Magic in My Kitchen: Tiana’s Beignets ✨

    A Little Disney Magic in My Kitchen: Tiana’s Beignets ✨

    If you’ve ever seen The Princess and the Frog, you’ll remember that irresistible scene — the one where Tiana’s beignets have everyone swooning. “Oh, Tia, you are bonafide genius. I’m gonna need about five hundred of your man-catching beignets for my ball tonight!” That line never fails to make me smile… and crave something warm, golden, and covered in powdered sugar.

    So when I found out that Disney actually released Tiana’s beignet recipe, you’d better believe I was in the kitchen faster than you can say “New Orleans.” I’m no professional baker — just a girl who loves a cozy kitchen moment — but this recipe was surprisingly simple to follow and turned out absolutely delicious.

    There was one tiny hiccup along the way (because what’s baking without a little chaos, right?). My vegetable shortening didn’t mix quite as smoothly as I’d hoped. I used Great Value this time, but next round I’ll be trying Crisco to see if it gives the dough that perfect, fluffy texture Tiana herself would approve of.

    When the beignets came out of the oil — golden, pillowy, and dusted with a snowy layer of powdered sugar — I felt this unexpected wave of joy and nostalgia. There’s just something about Disney magic that makes its way into real life when you least expect it. I even have a framed photo of Tiana in my kitchen as a little reminder to chase dreams, work hard, and enjoy the sweet things in life (literally and figuratively).

    If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s an easy, cozy afternoon project — best enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee and maybe a Disney soundtrack playing in the background. And if you do give it a go, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

    Here’s to channeling our inner Tiana — mixing, frying, and dreaming big — one delicious beignet at a time. 💛✨

    Courtesy of Disney
    Step 4
    The final product!
  • Craving Chinatown: My Unforgettable Bite at Super Taste NYC 🥢

    Craving Chinatown: My Unforgettable Bite at Super Taste NYC 🥢


    There’s just something about the energy of Chinatown that makes my foodie heart so happy — the hustle, the steam rising from street stalls, the smells that draw you in at every corner. On my latest trip to New York City, I found myself wandering down Eldridge Street when I stumbled upon Super Taste, a cozy little gem tucked at 26 Eldridge St, New York, NY. Let me just say… wow.

    The moment I took a bite of their pork and chive dumplings, I knew I was in trouble — the good kind of trouble. Perfectly chewy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside, and when you drizzle on a little chili oil and soy sauce? Pure magic. I swear I could have eaten an entire tray by myself (okay, maybe I did).

    What I love about Super Taste is that it’s unpretentious, affordable, and full of soul. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve found a local secret, even though it’s beloved by so many NYC foodies. The portions are generous, the flavors bold, and the atmosphere? Comfortingly chaotic in the best way.

    If you ever find yourself in Chinatown, do yourself a favor and stop by. Grab some dumplings, maybe some noodles too, and take a little walk afterward to soak in the vibrant neighborhood around you.

    Until next time, Super Taste — I’ll be dreaming of your dumplings. 🥟💛