TRAVEL GUIDE: PALM SPRINGS, CA

Growing up an Army brat I moved every three years, at least. Which makes me really comfortable with being uncomfortable. You know, that feeling you get when you move to another city or explore a town you’ve never been to, I live for that feeling. So I’ve made it my summer to-do in exploring a new destination each month, and today I’ll share with you a piece of paradise I found close to home, Palm Springs.

I stayed at the Avalon Hotel for my friend Miya’s birthday and what I love most about this boutique hotel is the customer service and its attention to every detail. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway complete with on site bicycles, 3 heated pools, health spa, fine dining, and a bungalow lifestyle, than this is the place for you!








With the desert setting and magnificent mountain views, you’ll really enjoy one of their poolside rooms! Ummm and can we talk about the decor?! I mean . . . clean, super bright, with pops of color, it’s got that retro feel with a modern finesse! I’m just completely obsessed with this place! I’ve found that in many cases, such a beautiful hotel will have not-so-comparable dining services, but this is not the case with the Avalon. Five JessQuests stars to their Avalon Burger *ahem grass-fed short rib sirloin*, and my absolute favorite, their fruit cart (pictured above)- complete with chili and lime *drool*!

We were greeted with complimentary champagne and fruit upon our arrival (birthday surprises!), our glasses were never empty during pool side celebrations, and every necessity was met with the friendliest smiles and the warmest of staff members! If you’re ever passing through Los Angeles or make your way to Palm Springs, definitely drop by the Avalon and tell Ezekiel we said hello!

Do you have a favorite local getaway?! Summer is almost over, have you checked any to-do’s off your list?

 

GO TEAM USA – CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY!

It was such an inspiring experience in Venice Beach this weekend as I joined AT&T on the final stop of the Road to Rio tour! We celebrate and send off the US Olympic and Paralympic Team that AT&T has been a sponsor of for 30 years, and I got to connect with the #ATT-Fanmate community. I even tried my hand at a few activities that were on site simulating some of the Olympic sports!

The events were free and open to the public, held outside of the Venice Beach Recreation Center and it couldn’t have been a more perfectly beautiful summer day! The crowd really turned out as we all enjoyed the AT&T Road to Rio Trailers that were set up around the AT&T Main Stage. From a virtual reality experience in an Olympians point of view, to zip lining, and fun green screen photo activities, it was a fun and engaging afternoon.



We also got the opportunity to meet some Team USA athletes and enjoy live performances on the AT&T Main Stage by Hailee Steinfeld, Heffron Drive, Rachel Platten and others! Look at that view! I got to enjoy the excitement from the best seat in the house!

The best part of the day was sharing a special message to Team USA. I told them that we’re all so proud of them and that they’re already winners to us! I can’t imagine the dedication and perseverance it takes to become an Olympian! This weekend was all about connecting our community and having fun while communicating appreciation for the games and everything surrounding the Olympics and Paralympics.

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It’s motivating being an AT&T Fanmate and I especially experienced that this weekend being among all of the fans and the fun! Join me and connect at attfanmate.com and follow along with the hashtag #ATTFanmate! Don’t forget to tune in as Team USA competes at the Olympic Games starting August 5th!

What would’ve been your favorite activity to do this weekend? Do you have a special message for Team USA?! Good luck to our Olympians! 

 

 

 

 

 

This post is proudly brought to you in partnership with AT&T

TRAVEL GUIDE: TOP 3 PACKING HACKS!

Imagine if you will, 8 outfits, 3 pairs of shoes, 4 bikinis, and 4 cover ups all in ONE carry on bag! Not to mention the additional toiletries, cosmetics, and electronics! Yup, all the necessities into one bag! That’s exactly what I did when we went to Vegas for our 6 year anniversary a few weekends ago!

I carry that feat with great pride, like someone who carries 8 bags of groceries from the car to the garage all in one trip. *ahem also me! lol* So today I’m sharing with you my tried and tested, very professional top 3 packing hacks! And by professional I mean I’m winging it and so far it’s worked for me so I hope it works for you too so there.


  1. Roll it up baby! – Use the rolling method to pack all of your clothing, rolling the softer items and folding the heavier, bulkier pieces. If you’re unfamiliar with this method here is a step by step HERE. I was able to fit 8 outfits, 4 bikinis, and 4 corresponding wraps to go with because of it!
  2. Pack versatility into your wardrobe! – And your shoes! Shoes are bulky and take up so much space. Tote along a pair of shoes that can easily go with any of the outfits that you pack. Opting for a pair of flip flops that are a bit fancy can easily take you from the beach to brunch! Throw in a pair of wedges that are comfortable for sight seeing yet cute because, fashion! If you’d like to see the outfits I packed for this trip and how I coordinated them read all about it HERE! 
  3. Think ‘need’ over ‘want’!- Like, “I ‘want’ to bring all 5 of my perfumes but I ‘need’ to pack all of my other toiletries, so I’ll pick my favorite ONE!” Personally, I have the most trouble with this one because I like to pack everything but the kitchen sink, but in this case when you don’t want to check a bag or you just want to be able to roll and go, less is literally more! The less you pack, the more use you’ll get out of the things you did!

Pro Tip: Pack any items that could bust open or overflow out of their containers, into their own spill proof bag! Then, in the case of a shampoo or something else opening during travel, nothing in your suitcase is ruined! Wahooo!

It’s amazing the items you’ll actually use when you’re forced to consolidate! I especially found this helpful when I packed my cosmetic and skin care bag. I only brought along 1 of my 17 serums, makeup that were multi-purpose in use, and travel sized products for lotions and toiletries. I also hope you find this helpful for your next trip or vacation getaway!

What is your number one packing hack?! I love reading your comments and incorporating your tips, it’s like we’re really friends! You like me, you really really like me! *quick, where’s that from?!* 

 

 

 

TRAVEL GUIDE: PACK VERSATILITY INTO YOUR WARDROBE!

I recently shared some fun facts about me, so adding to that … unknown truth, I NEVER check a bag! Like ever. No matter if we’re going on a 3 day trip or a 3 week trip, it’s all carry on for me! Can we say control freak!? So when we went to Las Vegas this past weekend for our 6 year anniversary I packed some versatile outfits and I want to share with you some of my versatility ideas for your vacation wardrobe.

I really wanted to bring along some dresses and cover ups that would double as swim suit cover ups while I was at the pool, and that could then be styled as dinner/ going out ensembles for after the day’s events! These scream sultry, versatile, and vacation!







Nasty Gal black romper with a mustard bralette, LF black and white chevron romper, LF fringed blouse and high waisted shredded shorts, White crochet monokini with a LF black scalloped sheer cover up, LF black lace skater dress, and this floor length floral wrap around gown.

Can you tell that I really own clothes in white and black? I’m drawn to them in everything! These outfits made me feel sexy and stylish! They were flowy, feminine, and perfect for that ‘pool to night out’ transition. Especially on vacation, you never know when you’re going to want to hop out of the pool and hit the town and these were my favorite choices! Next I’ll share with you how I packed 8 outfits, 3 bathing suits, 3 pairs of shoes, makeup and more all into ONE carry on luggage!

What is your go-to choice for packing some versatility into your wardrobe?

 

 

 

FUN FACTS ABOUT ME!

Sharing fun facts about me, some things you wouldn’t guess just by looking at me is fun for me to share with you because it’s like we’re friends … but like irl. I hope you’re just as weird as I am 😀

  1. I love crispy toast and soggy cereal! – It may sound weird but my daughter and I love leaving our toast out a few minutes to crunch up before we add butter or jelly and we like soaking all of our cereal in milk before spooning it up!
  2. Price is Right and The Office are my guilty pleasures! – I mean, they’re just classic! Bob Barker and Michael Scott! These two shows get me through a day on the couch sick with the flu and any day really!
  3. I don’t want to have any more babies. – Sad but true. I love babies and being a mom is my most greatest joy, but I think I’m done having babies. Key word ‘think’ lol I go back and forth on this a lot! But I’ve never been able to be selfish with my time, Corrine is 18 now so I think I’ll take some time for myself <3
  4. 80’s movies and 90’s music, that’s my jam! – So much good came out of these times! The era of big hair, epic love stories (ahem Some Kind Of Wonderful and the like), and MC Hammer! Everything about these 20 years is everything!
  5. I went to school to be a pharmacist! – Yup, the parents are still confused about what I actually do and can’t understand why I just won’t go back to school for this. I did it because I love Math and people, and hey it pays well! But this is the life for me.
  6. I have OCD! – I’m KIND of a control freak, I only like odd numbers, I double check the door locks and stove top about a gagillion times a day. I line things up, I clean like a maniac, I find solace in tidiness. I’m a weirdo baby. But I’ve found it keeps my mind clear when I can control something in this life! ha!
  7. When I get bored or nervous I play with the tips of my hair and poke them into my fingertips. – Sounds weird, I’ll have to show you some day LOL
  8. I like to play with my food! – I eat the chocolate around Snickers and other chocolate bars before enjoying the best part- the nougat! I move food around when I’m done eating it, I put Now & Laters and other taffy-esque candy in my pockets to make them chewy! Like I said, I’m a weirdo baby.
  9. I HAVE to shower before I go to sleep! – Even if I showered that morning, I just sleep better, I feel clean, and it’s so refreshing! Try showering before bed, it’s the best!
  10. Baby wipes in the bathroom, washing hands, and perfumes galore! – I’m big on hygiene also, who isn’t right! Baby wipes, because wipes. I have to wash my hands before I eat and as soon as I get home, just a habit, but like a good one. And I have about 15 perfumes on or near my person at any given time.

I’m a weirdo baby and thank you for letting me share my weird with you. Oh there’s more, but I’ll save them for later xoxo

Anything weird or random that you do?! Myself or someone else probably does them too  and it makes us elated to know we aren’t the only ones so share! 

 

BRIDE GUIDE: BEST BRIDE TO-BE GIFTS!!!

I’M GETTING MARRIED!!! *can you hear the excitement in that text scream?!* As you know, Joe and I got engaged in December and we’re getting married next summer ahhh! And man has this summer has been THE summer of engagements!

All of my best girl friends are getting engaged and it’s been the happiest, most beautifully emotional past couple of months for all of us! So after the initial screeching and screaming, and jumping up and down, I immediately go on the prowl for the perfect gift for my friend during her most special time!

So I wanted to share with you what I’ve found to be the best bride to be gifts and my go-to places for special items! Ahem not only are these my favorite gifts for ‘her’, but they’ve also been gifted to me and I speak from experience when I say IN LOVE!

 

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Kate Spade ‘Mrs’ necklace – a gorgeous, feminine, and dainty piece that will make her feel like the most special bride to be … a MRS!

Kendra Scott’s pendant necklace – these pieces come in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. You can customize each piece and they’re stunningly sparkly! The chain is delicate and drops just in line with the collar bone. Our group of girlfriends traditionally get one of these beauties each time someone gets engaged and our girl Bailey just joined the ‘I do’ club <333

For all things hand-made and personal I turn to Etsy! You can create one of a kind pieces, put together gifts that are timeless and meaningful in a different way. I love finding that ‘something blue’ item to gift and this bracelet is stunning! If you follow me on Instagram (and pictured above) than you’ve seen the Etsy necklace that has Joe, Corrine, and my signatures all carved out of rose gold! Talk about special and unique! You can’t go wrong with any gift you give someone you care about and these are just some of my most coveted online destinations.

No matter what you decide to give the bride to be, it will be special to them because it came from you. Congratulations to all of my brides and bride-to-be’s out there, I can’t wait to share more of my wedding prep/ tips and tricks with you!

What’s your favorite gift to give someone special???

 

 

 

JESS QUESTS- THE ROAD TO RIO

Over the years, I’ve become more and more athletic and you may not be able to tell from these ever-graceful gymnastic poses, BUT I’m pretty good at keeping my balance! The Road to Rio is underway, so I’ve been extremely excited to show my support of Team USA as I get ready to cheer them on at the Olympic Games!


As you know, I’ve participated in a lot of really incredible opportunities with AT&T, from supporting their golf tournaments to covering their philanthropic partnership with TOMS and more! I’m excited to announce that I’ll be joining the Road to Rio Tour with them LIVE, at the Venice Beach stop on July 23rd/July 24th!



As an influencer, I’m passionate about keeping you connected to the things that matter to me most and this partnership with AT&T will allow me to share with you a personalized interaction! From what the athletes are doing to gear up, to how YOU too can show your support and connect directly with the events surrounding the Olympic and Paralympic Games!


So join me in becoming an AT&T Fanmate at attfanmate.com and show Team USA some love by participating in the conversation! And, use #ATTFanmate in your social posts and follow the hashtag for updates! 

I’ll be at the Venice Beach stop at the end of July for the Team USA send off which is open to the public, so I hope to see some of you there . . . high fives and hugs will be given all day!

 

What’s your good luck message to Team USA athletes heading to Rio? Can we expect to see you along the tour?

 

 

 

 

 

 

This post is proudly brought to you in partnership with AT&T

TRAVEL GUIDE: SUMMER BUCKET LIST CHALLENGE!

Over the past few weeks I’ve had the urge to just get up and go and I don’t know if that’s because the open road is calling my name again or if I just need some change. Whatever the reason, it’s inspired me to challenge myself, and you, to write out a bucket list for this summer and slowly but surely check every adventurous thing off of it!

I hope this post encourages you to write out your own summer bucket list and join the challenge! So here we go! 1) Do something that scares you! 2) Go to more music festivals! 3) Enjoy the stillness! 4) Fill up on art and knowledge! 5) Practice gratitude!





These are all photos from last summer’s fun times and amazing memories. From rock climbing in Joshua Tree, attending our very first Coachella, slow walks on the beach at sunset, and admiring the floors at every museum we could find! This will be my inspiration for this summer’s excitements! I have to stop myself sometimes and remind myself to be present and to be grateful for every day, even the slow ones. Create the slow days, enjoy the stillness, and then enthusiastically attack the next day with tenacity!!!

What’s on your summer bucket list?! Do you have any suggestions for me for our next adventure?

 

 

IT’S COOKOUT SEASON!!!

It’s cookout season wahooo! BBQ’s, cookouts, pool parties . . . must be summer! *raise your hand if it’s summer 24-7-365 where you live* We’ve been invited to a couple of outdoor gatherings for the upcoming 4th of July holiday weekend, so I thought today I’d share with you how to be the best guest to any bbq!!! You’ll be fully prepared for the food and the fun!

It’s kind of essential to have your own ‘signature’ dish to offer up at any potluck themed gathering and for me it’s this incredible guacamole recipe! It’s tangy and creamy and the party will be buzzing with qossip on who brought the guac!!!

Smores, kabobs, and corn on the cob are all great options to bring and to make over the fire pit! Ahem, the fire pit is the best part! If you’re the one hosting the party, guests can plate up a yummy kabob and then nom on smores afterwards! With this portable fire pit you can bring the party with you anywhere! So if you’re headed to a bbq this summer or having a get together of your own, remember that fire pits and smores are all ya need for a grand ol’ time!

What’s your signature dish that you bring to get together’s and cookouts?