Coastal Collective Co.

St. John's Hermitage Bay All-Inclusive Resort in Antigua

travelAnneke McConnell

There are so many beautiful coastal regions to vacation at, and Hermitage Bay Resort is one I stumbled upon recently when researching for a vacation away from our hometown of Seattle.

GORGEOUS right?!!!

I absolutely LOVE where we live, but this past year's unending grey winter really made me think it's about time we started planning more trips away to get some sunshine, maybe even with a group of friends or family here and there!

 

When it comes to travel, we are not at a stage of life that we are personally globe-trotting, but as a design and style blog, I LOVE finding beautiful places for your potential next get-away.  

Between me and you, I may have gained a slight hankering to become a "vacation rental" decorator (having been through the process for our own home before), because many of the vacation rentals I came across were not very inspiring or welcoming (at least from the photos). :-/  Another post on that soon.

So a little more about Hermitage Bay Resort:

  • This beachfront resort is an all-inclusive resort for ages 12 and older.

  • It is located on 16 acres of tropical gardens in the secluded Hermitage Bay.

  • It offers amenities including a Spa with massage services, an outdoor pool and a gym.

 

  • The detached suites and cottages at Hermitage Bay All Inclusive are spacious (check!) and elegantly decorated (double-check!). They offer sea or garden views and the hillside suites include a private plunge pool.  All feature flat-screen TV, iPod docking station and a minibar.
  • Hermitage Bay has a beachfront restaurant serving regional dishes made with organic produce, which I personally love. Plus they offer special-diet meals upon request which is HUGE when you have certain restrictions like myself.
  • There is also a poolside bar, open-air lounge, and cooking courses.
  • If you're wanting to get some activities in, water sports are provided on the beach, and yoga and pilates classes are offered.
  • The Jolly Harbour Marina complex is only a 10 minute drive away, and has a golf resort and helicopter trips to Montserrat.
  • There are 27 hotels rooms.
  • Hermitage Bay is a 40 minute drive from VC Bird International Airport and St John’s can be reached by car in 30 minutes, so nice and close!

This is a excellent rated resort with just about everything you could want on a tropical getaway.  It's a top pick for a honeymoon destination as well.

Waking up to that beautiful view would be so refreshing!  Of course you also get all the necessities like free airport shuttle service, wifi, parking, spa, etc.

When it comes to tropical locations, this resort is a dream!  If you'd like to learn even more about it, click the button below.

If you ladies are looking for a few items to accompany you on your tropical vacation, that could be an entire series of blog posts, but below are a few suggestions.  For some pretty affordable vacation style finds, I'd suggest browsing around on BooHoo or even Amazon (for last minute needs).  I found this super cute striped summer hat on Amazon and love it!!

Do you have a tropical vacation coming up soon? I'd love to know in the comments!

xo,

Anneke

 

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Coastal Interiors Dining Room with Lighting Alternatives

Dining, Fave Picks, FashionAnneke McConnell

When I approach design, I see a space as a puzzle and a fun challenge to bring all the pieces together in a way that is unique to the needs, style, and budget of an individual or family.

Of all the pieces coming together, I have to admit that LIGHTING is hands down my favorite! It's like the jewelry of a room and has the power to instantly and solely change the vibe of a room.

Today I pulled together a more "moody" dining room with a darker traditional rug, rustic wood table (I LOVE the base on this!), and darker metal elements.  Then see the three lighting options and how they would change the look of the design!

This dining room design is a bit of a stray from my white, bright, navy, gray and somewhat modern preference, but I'd say it's the Pacific Northwest girl in me that's coming through. ;-)

 

Which lighting would you pick?

I hope you love enjoy today's design - thank you for sharing the love!  As for fashion today, a head's up that Neiman Marcus is having a HUGE sale of 25%-40%, some of these being on pre-season sale.  Below are just a few items that stood out to me that you may love too!

I'm personally drawn to the tropical floral and flowy tops, dresses, and staple shoes and handbags.  I'd love to know if you find something you love!

Also, if you're a Nordstrom shopper, they are having triple points through Sunday evening! Yay for that!   I can't wait for this cute and casual navy swing tee to arrive and finally took the plunge with this handbag. (review coming) :-)

On a personal note, if you have a moment and feel inclined, please pray for our little guy who was home sick today.  It's never fun and of course it had to hit just before his birthday AND Mother's Day! Thanks so much!

 

xo,

Anneke

P.S.  Be sure to check out yesterday's post on the best of WHITES and shoes as well as my Mother's Day Gift Post!  

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White Shoes for Spring and Summer!

Summer, Spring, ShoesAnneke McConnell

Hey guys!  The temperatures may have dipped from the 80's to 50's here in Seattle, but that isn't stopping me from dreaming of sunshine and bright whites! 

Today I'm rounding up white shoes for Spring and Summer to try and save you the hassle of browsing around yourself.  White shoes are a staple for the season and go with virtually everything, so I suggest picking one casual white shoe and one dressy white shoe.

Compared to the go-to tan color, it's great how a punch of white makes an outfit look instantly more classy and put together (if that's the look your going for!).

I hope this helps you out and if there's something you're on the look out for, please let me know - the crazy research loving part of me will love the challenge of finding it for you. ;-)

All of the photos are "active", so if you want to learn more about a shoe in the graphic, all you need to do is click on the hotspot that shows when you hover on it! 

I couldn't possibly fit ALL the great options in one photo, so be sure to browse through the sliders below for the most choices.  Of all the wedges, THIS one is my favorite!

OK, now if you're looking for a more casual and/or flat white shoe for summer (hello to all the mamas chasing kids - I completely understand!), below are some great options from tennis shoes to sandals, etc.

FYI, if you're going to go with Birks, I suggest going with the one with gold metal detailing. :-)  Keep in mind that most of these also have other color options too like tan, black, and brights for the season.

I wish I could write a bit more today, but it's a busier one with the kiddos, swim lessons, prepping for my son's birthday AND Mother's Day (did you catch my last blog post on that?)!

SO I've got to run!  I'm working on some new videos for you guys that I think will be a lot of fun, but in the meantime, happy shopping!!

xo,

Anneke

 

SHOP THE WHITE SHOES BOUTIQUE

(some shoes may show up as an alternate color)

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Spring, Relationships, Fashion Blog Posts, Gift IdeasAnneke McConnell

Mother's Day has become one of those bittersweet holidays for me, recognizing the life-changing, yet AMAZING reality of becoming a mom myself, mourning with those who have lost their mother or even their own child, and those who have struggled with infertility.

There is this unspoken depth to this holiday, with women united in the honor called Motherhood.  So as I share some fun and pretty gift ideas to help you simply say how much you care for the "Mothers" in your life, know that it comes with this understanding.

Truly, the greatest gifts we have are the moments throughout the year together, hugs, experiences, and our health.

With that said, giving gifts as an act of love and appreciation can be downright fun!  If life has gotten a bit crazy (like we did with a kiddo getting sick last week) and you're looking for some last minute ideas, this is for you!

 

 

The Go-To: AMAZON

 

When it comes to quick shipping, I'm a huge fan of Amazon as a Prime Member - BEST thing I did this past year!! Especially since iTunes started charging for service, we now use Amazon music streaming as part of of membership as well.

Ha! Now that I think about it, I probably would be stoked if someone gifted me an Amazon Prime membership. That's just me, but think about it......2-day free shipping from one of the largest online retailers is a GIFT of sanity. Lol

I'm not going to reinvent the wheel, because they've broken gift ideas down into categories for mom's who love fashion, gardening, tech gadgets, photography, craft items, shoes, jewelry, fitness, books, etc.

One of my personal fave gift ideas from Amazon would be their endless options for gifting a magazine subscription. It's literally the gift that keeps giving all year long. And who doesn't love a little monthly Happy Mail?!  My favorites are Coastal Living, HGTV, Better Homes and Garden, and InStyle magazine.

Did you know you can even book home services like home cleaning through Amazon? #mindblown

 

 

THE GIFT OF TRAVEL

 

I don't talk much about travel here, but I can't talk about Mother's Day without saying a trip together would be the ULTIMATE gift!!!  I fondly remember trips with my mom, sister, and girlfriends.  One night away locally to a week long trip abroad would be wonderful!

I've found Trip Advisor to be really helpful and all-encompassing when researching for a trip.   When I was browsing around, I found this STUNNING rental in Maui!  Holy moly!! Grab a crew of friends to split the cost and have some fun together in Hawaii! I usually look for homes to rent so I can cook my own food. :-)

 

 

JEWELRY

 

Jewelry is such a classic go-to gift, and for any fashionista or sentimental mom, you can't go wrong with jewelry as a gift.  It says a lot too if you notice what she does and doesn't tend to wear.  For example, I'm pretty big on earrings (big or small), rings, and necklaces, but rarely wear bracelets or watches.  This is one of my personal FAVE jewelry pieces for daily wear. You can go with something trendy, fine jewelry, or even a coordinating set. Below are just a handful of ideas to get you started!

And how cute is this Mama necklace?! I love supporting small business owners, so be sure to browse around on ETSY!

 

 

Home Decor

I love to see things around our home that have been gifted to us over time from family and friends.  We have special coral from far away travels, frames, blankets, plants, etc. that mean just a little more because they were given in love and with thought for our coastal loving, rustic modern style.  Here are some home decor items to give you an idea for gifts this Mother's Day and beyond.

ShopBop

 

When browsing around I was happy to find that ShopBop is having a surprise sale of 40% off.  They have higher end, great quality items, so 40% off is a BIG deal!!! If you know your mom or friend loves good quality, this is a great place to shop online. 

Browse the Sale

 

 

A few other places I'd check out for gifts:

Kate Spade:  There are so many classic and cute items with coastal flair. I LOVE this pretty clutch with the turtle on the front!

 

Stella & Dot: There isn't much I don't love from Stella & Dot, from their chic (and SMART) jewelry, stylish purses and totes, not to mention some pretty cute tunics like the one below!

fringe tote

 

The Wild and Free Project:  I love how one of my go-to fitness gals, Alexa, has started this clothing line to raise money and awareness toward childhood cancers.  Straight from their website:

"The Wild and Free Project is founded on strong moral principles, dedicated to making a positive impact on the greater community. Through our 'Wild & Free" Movement, we are committed to supporting charitable organizations who fulfill a critical role promoting high quality programs in health-related areas such as childhood cancer. And through The Wild and Free Project, we strive to help these organizations bring encouragement to individuals battling critical health problems. 

We hope that you will join us in our ‘Wild and Free’ movement to raise awareness and support for childhood cancer. 25% of profits goes straight to CureSearch for Children's Cancer and the Kylie Rowand Foundation built on a mission to spread awareness, raise funds for promising, less toxic treatments as well as raise funds for children and their families currently fighting childhood cancer."

I love supporting companies like this that in turn significantly help children and families going through extremely challenging times.  My favorite item from the Wild and Free Project has to be the t-shirt below, but they have options for women, men, AND children! Check it out!

 

Nordstrom: 

Probably one of my favorite online retailers in general, Nordstrom is a great place to find gifts of all kinds and various price points.  If your mom or friend is a coffee lover like me, you need to check out this pretty MOM mug!! And don't forget the chocolate. ;-)

Ok, so here are just a few recommendations to check out at Nordstrom.

 

I personally wouldn't mind a gift card for garden flowers, or DIY supplies, but you know the mothers in your life best, so go with your heart, and spoil her with love this Mother's Day!