I’ve wanted to wallpaper our bedroom, well really every single room in our house, since the second we got the keys to our house. But apparently after buying our house we needed to have a resting period before we could actually afford to decorate said house. So four years later we finally have some design happening!

As all the wise once said, it’s a marathon not a sprint!

Wallpaper

I was on the hunt for a statement print but wanted to keep it old Florida vibes with a modern twist. I connected with Emma from Marova Design over Instagram and was geeking out over her Palm print. She is also Miami based, so I was so excited to work with another Florida girl. The print is textured and it’s bold but still reads neutral, and it literally brought our small room to life.

The Bed

Our velvet bed frame is from Quince, and the texture adds just enough contrast to really make the wallpaper pop. I love the wingback headboard, it makes the whole room feel extra cozy.

We’re also sleeping on a Helix mattress, and it’s the first mattress I’ve ever had where I don’t feel the need to add a million toppers to make it comfortable, it’s that good on its own. They have a super simple sleep quiz that helps you find the best fit.

Our sheets are from Boll & Branch and feel softer every time we get in bed.

We also added a light Chappy Wrap blanket, I love that the light green highlights the wallpaper and it doesn’t fight with the Florida heat.

The Little Details

One of my most asked questions is where our rug is from, it’s from Rush House, and it’s the best bang for your buck and you can easily add tiles to make it larger or remove them to make it smaller.

Our room redesign really started with photograph above our bed. My dear friend Lexi Merison took the photo in Africa and I couldn’t get over the colors. She had it framed through Framebridge and I am just obsessed with it. I love how personal it feels while still tying in so naturally with the rest of the room.

Another happy focal point are the turtle shell wall pieces from Row House, a local shop that has some of the best home finds. They’re playful and the boys love them. Our simple wooden nightstands are also from Row House. Space is limited so these felt like the perfect balance.

I wanted a pop of color for our bedside table lamps, the base is from Pooky and the shade is from Well Made Home (they have a beautiful shop in Palm Beach). I love the unexpectedness of those tree colors in the room. And the sweetest little ring dish from my favorite English nightgown brand If Only If.

Our dresser is good ole’ Ikea because I will always have a little bit of college girl in me.

The acrylic & gold curtain rods are here, our ceilings are low so they create the illusion of height.

The curtains and throw pillows are from Pepper Home, and I love how easily they bring in color and personality without making the room feel too busy. Their site is also so user friendly and makes the entire ordering process pain-free. The Pepper pillows also come pre-stuffed, which is one of the greatest offerings in history.

And if you’re a side sleeper like me, the Dr. Mary Side Sleeper Pillow is a necessity. Seriously. I don’t know how I slept without it!!!

For the rest of the pillows, I always buy these ‘hotel pillows’.

And most importantly we upgraded a few pieces of decor for Byrdie, our 8-pound dachshund. Her pink dog bed & custom dog stairs are the pièce de résistance.

Next on the to do list is to add some simple crown moulding and have my closet redone.

And the biggest thank you to my friend Maddie for being my sounding board for approximately every bedroom, and house, design decision, she’s the best and truly the most talented. Hire her!

The before so you can see how bare it was … yikes! And this was even after the new furniture.

Everything plus a few other favorites, are linked on my ShopMy here. Really a running list of everything I’m currently loving for the house!

Xx,

Ali

Subscribe now

We had four days in London with the boys and tried to pack in as much as possible. The agenda was lots of eating, a little shopping, the classic London sights, and plenty of stops to keep the boys entertained along the way!

DAY ONE

Mallorca → London / Gatwick

We flew into Gatwick from Mallorca. I had originally priced out a car through the hotel to pick us up, but it was something insane like £500, so we figured we’d just Uber. An Uber would have been around £200, but it also said it would take close to TWO HOURS with traffic, so we made a last-minute decision to hop on the Gatwick Express instead.

It’s a direct train from Gatwick to Victoria Station and only takes about 30 minutes. It was definitely a little chaotic with two kids and all of our luggage, but 100% worth it. We would absolutely do it again. So much faster than sitting in traffic.

Once we got to Victoria, there weren’t any Ubers big enough for all four of us + our luggage, so we divided and conquered. I took an Uber with Sawyer and some of the luggage, and Jarrett took a cab with Wilder and the rest.

Ham Yard Hotel

We checked into the Ham Yard Hotel in Soho, right near Piccadilly. We were actually originally booked at Claridge’s, but they wouldn’t let the four of us stay in one room (I could write a dissertation on this subject), and I was too nervous to gamble with that once we got there. Ham Yard was happy to let all four of us stay together in one of their suites, so we switched.

We’ve actually stayed at Ham Yard before and really like it. Soho itself is obviously busy and crowded, but the hotel is tucked onto a little side street that feels totally fine. Miki from Booked By Miki was an absolute lifesaver in organizing our stay—she took care of every detail at Ham Yard and made the whole experience feel so seamless and welcoming, like a true home away from home. The staff is lovely, the rooms are really spacious, and they already had the crib set up for Sawyer when we arrived. Everything was perfect.

We quickly changed and headed out.

Mayfair Chippy

Our first reservation was Mayfair Chippy in Knightsbridge for proper fish & chips.

We ordered:

• The classic with haddock

• Shrimp toast — SO yummy

Sawyer was kind of naughty at lunch and barely ate anything, and I happened to notice there was a smash burger place basically next door called Supernova, obviously had to try it.

Supernova

We got Sawyer a plain burger and then ordered their house burger for ourselves to try. I was already completely full from fish & chips and DID NOT CARE. This burger was insane. So freaking good and absolutely worth the double lunch.

Selfridges + Matcha

From there we went to Selfridges because there’s a JENKI Matcha inside.

I got the maple cinnamon matcha with cold foam. It reminded me a lot of the La La Land French Toast Matcha. I normally would have gotten a double, but it was already around 5 p.m., so I just ordered it as it came.

Then we went upstairs to the toy section and let Wilder pick out a toy (why I thought this would only take 10 minutes is a great wonder of the world!).

Hyde Park

After Selfridges, we walked through Hyde Park to let the boys get some energy out. Unfortunately, London has been having such a heat wave that the park was completely dry. Like… Coachella parking lot dry. There was basically no green grass anywhere, which was kind of sad, but the boys obviously did not care.

Then we headed back to Ham Yard to shower, change, etc. before dinner.

China Tang at The Dorchester

Dinner was China Tang at The Dorchester. I LOVE old-school Chinese food and am obsessed with crispy shredded beef, so this was very much for me.

We ordered:

• Crispy shredded beef

• A ton of different dumplings

• Fried noodles with shredded chicken

• Sweet & sour prawns

Love this restaurant. Such good old-school Chinese food, and The Dorchester is so beautiful. It was such a fun first-night dinner. We also met Wilder’s new best friend there, Tom Hartley, if you ever want to buy a cool car, go to him!

Afterward we went straight back to the hotel and ptfo.

DAY TWO

Notting Hill + Kensington Gardens + Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Tea + Date Night at Dorian

We somehow slept until around 9 a.m., which felt like a miracle, and decided to spend most of the day in Notting Hill. We walked from the Ham Yard to Oxford Circus station and took the Central line straight to Notting Hill Gate. So easy and definitely the way to get over there from Soho.

KURO Bakery

Our first stop was KURO Bakery for cinnamon rolls and matcha, and both were incredible. The bottom of the cinnamon roll was somewhere between a croissant and a kouign-amann, crispy, buttery, caramelized and SO freaking good. We just sat on a stoop outside and devoured.

I got the iced maple matcha with cold foam, which was small but so freaking good. Best matcha of the trip.

After that, we just wandered around Notting Hill looking at all the colorful houses. We got so lucky with the London weather this entire trip, gorgeous, sunny, perfect weather.

Wilder decided he wanted a bagel, and conveniently KURO also has a bagel shop right around the corner. We got him a plain bagel with cream cheese, which was exactly what you want a plain bagel with cream cheese to be. They ALSO have a dedicated coffee shop, so Jarrett grabbed a coffee there. At this point we had officially completed the entire KURO tour.

Portobello Road Market

From there we walked down Portobello Road to check out the market. It was fun to see, but it was Sunday and very crowded with tons of vendors, so we didn’t spend a huge amount of time there. Worth walking through, but the boys were getting cranky.

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground

Next we walked about 20 minutes over to Kensington Gardens for the Diana Memorial Playground. It had literally just reopened after a huge renovation, so our timing was amazing. The playground underwent a £3 million renewal with a new giant wooden galleon, treehouse, water play area and an updated area for little kids.

It was BEAUTIFUL, and the boys absolutely loved it. There was probably a 20–30 minute wait to get in, but it was also a Sunday and had just reopened, so I’m sure that contributed.

They sell food inside the playground too. We just got the boys popsicles, but they had sourdough pizzas that actually looked very, very good. We stayed and let them play for a while before walking back toward Portobello Road for lunch.

Zephyr

We had a 1:30 reservation at Zephyr, a Greek restaurant on Portobello Road, and this was such a good lunch. The vibe, the food, everything was fabulous. Sawyer fell asleep in the Babyzen YOYO on the walk over and proceeded to sleep through basically the entire lunch, best travel stroller nap timing ever, which made it especially lovely.

We ordered the tzatziki, spicy feta dip, bread basket, sea bass carpaccio, fried zucchini, Greek salad and lamb meatballs. Everything was so good. Definitely go here.

After lunch, I couldn’t stop thinking about my KURO matcha from that morning, so made everyone go BACK to the coffee shop for another one. Just as good the second time. My only complaint is that I wish they made them approximately three times the size.

Notting Hill → Soho

We decided to take a cab back to the Ham Yard, which was a mistake. We should have just gotten back on the tube because traffic was terrible and we sat in the cab for almost an hour.

By the time we got back, we had to quickly change because we were taking the boys to the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych in Covent Garden.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea

This was definitely gimmicky and definitely expensive, but it was also basically the one true kid “experience” we booked in London, and the boys loved it. It’s completely themed around Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with tons of sweets, fluffy cotton candy, chocolate, fizzy drinks, etc.

Wilder especially loved the cotton candy. Would I go for the food alone? Probably not. But as something special to do with kids in London, it was really fun, and they were so excited about it.

Date Night

After tea, we headed back to the Ham Yard because we had a babysitter coming and Jarrett and I had a date night. I ordered room service for the boys, and they ate dinner out on the terrace at the hotel while we got ready, which was very cute.

Then Jarrett and I took the tube BACK to Notting Hill because apparently we couldn’t get enough of it that day.

Dorian

We had dinner at Dorian and oh my god, SO GOOD. And Marisa Tomei was sitting right behind us, which obviously made dinner even better.

We had the crab rösti, tuna tostadas, caviar rösti and tried the sweetbreads. They were actually good, but knowing what they are weirds me out a little, so I’m not sure I need to become a sweetbread person.

Then we had their bone-in ribeye, which is what they’re known for, and it was insane. Perfectly cooked with so much flavor and the best crust. We also had their simple house green salad alongside it.

Definitely, definitely recommend Dorian. Such a special meal and the perfect date night.

We basically spent the entire day bouncing between Soho and Notting Hill, ate an absurd amount of good food, managed to fit in something special for the boys AND a date night, and it was just such a great London day.

DAY THREE

Tourist Day: Buckingham Palace + London Eye + Dishoom + Harrods

Day three was our day to tackle all of the classic touristy London things.

Breakfast at Ham Yard

We started with breakfast at the hotel. Ham Yard has such a pretty courtyard outside, so we sat out there and had a slow breakfast before heading out for the day.

I had the soft scrambled eggs with avocado toast and jam, which was delicious, and the boys loved the pancakes.

Black Cab Matcha

From there, we walked to Black Cab Matcha because obviously I needed to try another London matcha. Unfortunately, this one was not for me. It had a weird taste and left almost a film in my mouth. I actually didn’t even finish it, which says a lot.

Buckingham Palace + Changing of the Guard

Then we took a cab to Buckingham Palace because the Changing of the Guard was happening at 11 a.m. We watched for about 30 minutes. It was SUPER crowded, but Wilder got such a kick out of it, so it was definitely worth doing with the boys.

St. James’s Park Playground

Afterward, we went to the playground in St. James’s Park.

One thing we always do when we’re traveling with the kids is find a playground every single day and give them an hour or two to just run around. I swear it makes such a difference. They get their energy out, it’s something that’s actually for them, and it’s also really fun seeing playgrounds in different cities. So many international cities have the most gorgeous parks and playgrounds.

We let the boys play for about an hour and then started walking toward the London Eye for our 1 p.m. reservation.

Big Ben + London Eye

On the way, we passed Big Ben and the Churchill statue, so we checked a few more tourist sights off the list without really having to go out of our way.

We bought the Fast Track tickets for the London Eye and I would 100% recommend doing that. It made such a difference and saved us from standing in a huge line with the boys.

The ride itself is about 30 minutes, and it was actually perfect with kids. They’re contained in the pod but can still walk around, look out the windows, and explore. Plus, it was really fun getting to see all of London from above.

Dishoom Covent Garden

After the London Eye, we walked about a mile to Covent Garden for our 2 p.m. reservation at Dishoom. This whole day ended up being such a good walking route because everything flowed really naturally from one stop to the next.

I LOVE Dishoom. All of the flavors are so good, it’s casual enough to bring the kids, and it’s just one of those places I always want to go back to.

The move is to order the chilli chicken and the chaat and eat them together. BANANAS.

We also had the okra fries, which the boys love, chicken ruby, lamb biryani, garlic naan and the broccoli salad, which is so good and refreshing alongside everything else. And then coconut ice cream for dessert. Just the best.

Liberty London

After lunch, we walked back toward our hotel through Chinatown and stopped at Liberty on the way. I could spend HOURS in Liberty, but unfortunately the boys had reached their shopping limit, so I didn’t get nearly as much time there as I wanted.

We headed back to Ham Yard because our babysitter from Rockmybaby Agency was coming. They had been recommended to us and were amazing, highly recommend if you need childcare while you’re in London.

We ordered Sawyer a pizza on Uber Eats before we left, and I could not get over how fast food delivery was in London. The pizza was literally at our hotel door within about 10 minutes.

Special Date Night with Wilder

Sawyer stayed at the hotel with the babysitter because we were taking Wilder out for a special night with just us.

We took the tube to Harrods and showed him the Food Halls, got some chocolate, and let him pick out a toy. It was such a fun little night to have one-on-one time with him.

I also found the most INSANE pair of Miu Miu sandals, but of course they didn’t have my size. The hunt continues.

Ukiyo Hand Roll Bar

From Harrods, we took an Uber back toward Soho for dinner at Ukiyo Hand Roll Bar.

Honestly, it was okay. Probably our least favorite meal of the trip. I wish we had tried Tamaki instead, but now we know. Sugarfish sets the hand roll bar SO high in the U.S. that it’s hard not to compare everything to it.

Still, we had such a fun night with Wilder, which was really the point.

The Mango Sticky Rice Mission

I had also been craving mango sticky rice and had found a spot in Chinatown that ONLY does mango sticky rice, which obviously sounded perfect, but it was closed by the time we got there.

So I Uber Eatsed mango sticky rice from Rosa’s Thai back to the hotel. It was fine, nothing life-changing, but it absolutely hit the spot.

And that was Day Three, Buckingham Palace, playground time, Big Ben, the London Eye, Dishoom, Liberty, Harrods, a special night with Wilder and a late-night mango sticky rice delivery. A very full, very London day!

DAY FOUR

Borough Market + Hyde Park + Belgravia + Soho Food Crawl + Straker’s

Our final full day in London. Never enough time.

Borough Market

We started the morning at Borough Market. We took a cab over because with the stroller, if the tube isn’t a super easy/direct route, I would honestly rather just get in a cab.

First priority was obviously matcha. There is a Jenki right next to the market and even JSMD requested his own, we’re making progress!

Then we basically just started eating our way through the market. We got the chocolate-covered strawberries, which I loved, while the boys decided they only wanted the regular strawberries and proceeded to eat approximately three cups of them. God knows how much money we spent on strawberries that morning.

We also got a bunch of jersey oysters, which were SO good, and a sausage roll from Ginger Pig.

Then we tried the famous doughnuts from Bread Ahead Bakery | Borough Market. Bread Ahead actually started right there in Borough Market, and their filled doughnuts are what they’re known for. The boys liked the regular doughnuts, but the famous crème brûlée one was honestly way too much for us.

Borough Market is definitely touristy, but it’s really fun, and there are so many things to try.

Hyde Park Playground

From there we took another cab to Hyde Park and, continuing our playground-a-day rule, let the boys play for about an hour. Popsicles were involved, naturally.

Jarrett had meetings back at the hotel that afternoon, so after the playground he headed back and I took the boys with me because I wanted to go visit one of my favorite brands in Belgravia.

Belgravia + If Only If

We walked from Hyde Park toward Belgravia and stopped into Harvey Nichols along the way.

And oh my gosh, Belgravia. If I could pick one place to live in London it would be Belgravia.

I was going to visit the If Only If store and meet the girls there. Their shop is absolutely gorgeous, it basically feels like walking into the warmest, coziest bedroom. I got a sneak peek at a bunch of pieces from their new fall collection launching in September, and it was such a treat getting to see the team, I love them so much.

Afterward, we wandered around Belgravia and found a little matcha shop. The matcha was really good, but the star was this layered honey cake that was INSANE. We also got chocolate-covered dates, which Sawyer managed to get approximately everywhere. He was literally covered in chocolate.

Soho Food Crawl

Then we took a cab back toward Soho to meet up with Jarrett. Since it was our last night, we decided the only appropriate thing to do was go big and basically start a food crawl before our actual dinner reservation.

First stop: Carmy’s Pizza, which Peanut had found on Instagram.

SO GOOD. Tiny little pizza shop, super crispy New York style slices and incredible flavors. The loaded pepperoni was phenomenal. Wilder had fallen asleep in the stroller, while Sawyer absolutely demolished the vodka slice. The marinara was so good. The crust was so crispy. This is a must.

We happened to pass a matcha shop right nearby, so I had to stop for my second serving of the day. I tried a black sesame matcha, and it was actually really good.

Then we walked about five minutes to Noodle Inn Covent Garden for the hand-cut beef shank chilli oil noodles and wontons.

OH MY GOD. So freaking good. The noodles were chewy and covered in chilli oil, and the wontons were incredible. Carmy’s + Noodle Inn would be such a good little Soho/Covent Garden food crawl. Both are musts.

Straker’s

At this point we were completely full, but we still had a 6:30 dinner reservation that we were not missing.

We quickly went back to change and then Ubered to Notting Hill with both boys for dinner at Straker’s.

We were basically going for one thing: the mussel flatbread with chilli butter, which is one of the dishes Straker’s is known for.

Let me tell you. One of the better bites of food I’ve ever had.

We should have just ordered two. The flatbread with the mussels and that chilli butter/oil situation was insane. SO, SO good.

We also had an amazing crudo, the crab pasta and the house salad. Unfortunately, we’d spent the previous few hours eating pizza and noodles, so we weren’t nearly hungry enough to properly tackle the menu. But honestly, I would go back tomorrow just for that flatbread.

We sat outside, which I loved. It was such a nice atmosphere and another gorgeous London night.

Darlish

After dinner, we walked to Darlish for ice cream. Because apparently we found a second stomach.

I got the Belgian chocolate, and it was so good.

Then we grabbed a cab back to the hotel, packed up, and watched a movie because we had a noon flight out of Heathrow the next day.

And that was London.

I love this city so much. Four days with the boys felt like we only scratched the surface, which I guess is the best reason to come back. Already can’t wait.

Xx.

Ali

Subscribe now

It ended up being the perfect mix of adult time with friends and sweet little moments with the boys. We also had two wonderful Dominican women helping us with the kids who were actual angels. Let me know if you want their contact info because they truly made the trip possible and made the trip such a treat.

Anyway, I packed a mix of casual beach looks and slightly dressier outfits for dinners and parties, so here’s everything I brought along…

To Arrive

To the Grocery Store to get Snacks

To Dinner

To the Beach

To Dinner & Dancing

To Lounge

To the Beach

To Dinner With Friends

To Breakfast & beach

To conquer the afternoon

To soak up the sun

To the Last Dinner

To head home

To note: I am 5’6” and normally a size S. I prefer a size M in all swimwear!

And a mini recap of our CDC go tos:

Lunch at Minitas: I am addicted to their fried zucchini, have to have it at least once a day. Also love the shrimp and avocado salad and the steak for dinner.

Dinner anywhere in Altos de Chavón: It’s a recreation of a 16th century Mediterranean style village with restaurants and little shops. You really can’t go wrong with dinner anywhere there. The views are beautiful, and they have a donkey named Margarito that the kids can take photos with.

The grocery store in the Marina: Browsing grocery store aisles, especially the chip aisle, in different countries is one of my favorite activities.

The breakfast buffet at Lago: Get an omelet and pour the spicy red sauce all over it. Also always ask if they have crispy caramelized plantains.

The restaurant bar at the hotel: Chicken fingers and beef croquettes make it a mini fried feast.

The spa: I have yet to visit but most of my friends have and say it’s incredible, especially the “water room”

The kids club: they have a great kids club near the hotel, and a playground at the beach club!

Let me know if you have any questions!! 143!

Ali

We brought back your most-loved silhouettes for summer, reimagined in a patriotic palette with a little green in the mix. Made for long weekends, dinners al fresco, and sweet family moments.

So grateful for the love you showed part one, it made part two possible.

As always, everything is produced using deadstock fabric, so once it’s gone, it’s gone!

Here’s a look at the whole collection.

ASD X BURU PART TWO

The Ali Dress- Red Taffeta

The Perry Blouse + The Marilyn Skirt Maxi in Navy Blue Geo

The Lanai Tunic MINI + Flat Front Everyday Shorts in Sage Brushstroke

Double Take Dress + Flat Front Everyday Shorts in Navy Blue Fringe

The Ali Dress- Anchors Away

Button Box Top in Festive Stripe + The Marilyn Skirt Maxi in Cobalt Taffeta

The Lanai Tunic + Flat Front Everyday Shorts in Cornflower Blue

The Ashbourne Dress- Aqua on Aqua Gingham

The Lanai Tunic MINI + Flat Front Everyday Shorts in Cobalt Blue

I’m so excited to see how you style the pieces and make them your own, tag me, i want to see everything!!!

Also for reference, I am 5’6” and I wear size XS/S or S in everything.

Thank you so much for your love!!! ILYSM!!

xx, Ali

Gift Guide

1. Alex Mill Tote Bag- my favorite “I have my life together” carry-all tote

2. Loren Stewart Mini ID Bracelet- subtle, personal, and I never take it off

3. Mister B. “I’ll text(ure) you” Earrings- the perfect gold earring for every occasion

4. Brightland X Hillhouse Set- the chicest (& most delish) olive oil in my kitchen

5. Leather Appointment Candle- will make your house smell like a hotel

6. Weezie Robe- every mom needs a robe & this is the comfiest one you will ever own

7. Staud Raffia Mini Bag- a tiny bag perfect for summer to elevate any look

8. Bubble Candle Dish- because even your candles need something extra

9. Jimmy Fairly Heart Sunglasses- i have major heart eyes for these & Jimmy Fairly knows how to do sunglasses right

10. SWW Alkalize Detox Powder- an essential in my morning routine

11. Apartment 387 Floral Arrangement- flowers, but make them forever

12. LAKE Kimono Pajama Set- luxry in a pajama set. need I say more?

13. Ann Mashburn Mules- effortless for any occasion

14. Sofie Pavitt Face Hydrating Sunscreen- clean skincare is a must & so is this SPF

15. Lorna Murray Sun Hat- the sunhat of all sunhats

16. Sisto Sisters X Henri Noël Large Bamboo Bezel Necklace- an understated statement piece that is a part of my everyday stack

17. Ballerina Farm Protein Powder- my favorite protein powder and key ingredient to my matcha milkshake

18. Brinker + Eliza Beaded Necklace- the cutest beads for summer

19. Le Lion Amy Polo- customizable, chic, and comfy

20. Oak Essentials Body Balm- for the softest skin ever

Lastly, any of the pieces from my collection with Ricki Beach Club, I have been especially loving the Sima Sarong!

For a full list of my Mother’s Day picks, you can shop everything on my ShopMy! Shop the full edit here → ASD Mother’s Day Edit

Happy Mother’s Day- sending love to all women because in one way or another, you are a mom!

xx, Ali

I’ve never been able to handle coffee caffeine. Even a little sends me into a spiral, and I’m convinced it’s one of my migraine triggers, so I’ve always ended up with decaf, which, if you’ve ever looked into how decaf coffee is made, it’s not exactly comforting.

For a while I made it work by turning it into what I called a “milkshake latte,” whole milk, vanilla, basically anything to make it feel less like coffee and more like a treat. But then I realized it was doing absolutely nothing for me and I might as well just have a scoop of Häagen Dazs coffee ice cream.

I had gotten very into matcha after our first trip to Japan in 2019, and then fell off once my suitcase supply ran out. About a year ago we reunited because I wanted a little caffeine (having two boys requires that) and I love all the health benefits matcha brings. I started making matcha lattes at home, trying to get them as close to milkshake territory as possible.

Then Ballerina Farm came out with her protein powder. I tried it on its own, which is already a milkshake in its own right, and then I added it to my matcha, and that’s when it kind of became a whole thing.

And that’s when it became part of my personality.

It tastes like a milkshake, the caffeine is calm and doesn’t ruin my life, and it has 24 grams of protein, so it actually keeps me full for a few hours.

I’m not much of a routine person, but this is the one thing I don’t skip. My mom, who has never been a matcha person, now has me make her one every single day too.

This is my matcha milkshake recipe, and it might just make you a matcha person.

The Matcha I Use

I usually order any of the below from Amazon, whatever can get to me the fastest. Most important is that it’s organic, ceremonial grade, and a bright green color. But my heart (and soon my orders) are with MURACHA, which is launching soon!!! I’ll share more on that venture soon, too!!!

NAOKI

MATCHAFUL

OCHA & KO

CRAFTI

Ingredients & Supplies

• 2-5 grams of matcha powder, however you you like it in strength (I’m up to 5!)

  • I use this scale to measure

• 1 scoop Ballerina Farm protein powder

  • vanilla bean is my favorite for this

• 1 cup MALK unsweetened almond milk

  • I used to do all whole milk, but now it’s mostly MALK with a splash of whole milk, inching back toward my pre pregnancy self

• a pour of organic grass-fed whole milk as a topper!

• 2 oz hot water (should be about 160 degrees F, never boiling)

  • I have this kettle

• A handful of ice!

• Whisk, strainer & stirrer set

• Electric whisk

• This cup & straw when enjoying at home

• These cups when taking out & about

How to Make

1. Heat water in a kettle to 160°F and

2. Place your bowl on top of your scale, and lay your fine mesh strainer over the bowl

3. Measure out 2-5g of matcha in your fine mesh strainer & sift it through the strainer with your stirrer

4. Add in 2 oz of hot water

5. Mix with your whisk in an M shape until it looks smooth & pastey with a little bit of bubbles on top

6. Add 1 cup of MALK to your glass & 1 scoop of BF protein powder, mix with electric frother

7. Pour your matcha into the glass & add handful of ice

8. Top with a little whole milk & be matcha milkshake merry!!

My Tips

• Set your kettle to 160°F. Hot, not boiling - this keeps the matcha smooth and not bitter.

• Frother > blender. It keeps everything light, creamy, without the extra mess of having to get out a blender!!!

• Blend the protein powder & MALK on its own before adding in the matcha

• Good milk matters. MALK is literally just water, almonds & salt and for whole milk Maple Hill is my favorite.

  

I hope you become a matcha milkshake master and enjoy every single day!!

If you’re more of a visual person I have a video shows how here too!

Lots of love!!!

Ali

My collection with Ricki Beach Club launched last week on April 2nd, and we are so beyond grateful for all of the love & support! The messages, the orders, the way you guys have already started styling everything, it has been the best kind of overwhelming!! The collection was almost a year in the making and I am so obsessed with every single detail of it.

The collection is available on the RBC website with a few of your favorite styles available for pre-order through this Friday, April 10th.

Any pre-order styles will ship by the end of May, so you will have them in time for all of your summer travels & soirees!

If you have been thinking about something, this is your moment to buy!!!

The Launch

We had a small morning launch party in Palm Beach the morning before everything went live. It was full of my favorite people getting to see the collection in real life. We had a matcha milkshake cart (duh), and I loved getting to see everyone try on the pieces and place their orders.

Lauren, the founder of RBC, and the entire team are the greatest and will now be lifelong friends!

The entire collection is Palm Beach inspired and it was so fun to create a collection based around my home and somewhere that has been so special to me throughout my life. I wanted all the pieces to feel generational, relaxed, beachy and chic. And the prints, oh my goodness the prints are so beautiful & detailed and each tell a story.

ASD x RBC is made up of pieces that do not need much explaining. Things that feel good on, that move with you, that you can reach for without thinking twice. All very throw on and go! They all also work wonderfully for maternity and postpartum, they’re for all chapters of life!!

The Collection

Clothing

Ada Dress in Chocolate Palm Tree

Bikini T-Shirt in Creamsicle Cabana Stripe

Birdie Dress in Cream Eyelet

Magnolia Set in Creamsicle Cabana Stripe

Ricki Pant in Creamsicle Cabana Stripe

Posie Set in Cream Eyelet

Swim

Georgia One-Piece in Chocolate Palm Tree

Mia Top + Cora Bottom in Chocolate Palm Tree

Colette Top + Riley Bottom in Coral & Cream

Daphne Top + Rivers Bottom in Coral & Cream

Daphne Top + Rivers Bottom in Creamsicle Cabana Stripe

Georgia One-Piece in Creamsicle Cabana Stripe

Accessories

Sima Sarong in Coral & Palms

Scout Bandana in Coral & Palms

Cosmetic Bag in Creamsicle Cabana Stripe

I’m so excited to see how you style the pieces and make them your own—tag me, i want to see everything!!!

Also for reference, I am 5’6” and I wear size medium in all of our swimwear and size XS/S in our clothing!

Thank you so much for your love!!! ILYSM!!

xx, Ali

Subscribe now

Disclaimer: this trip was in October but you know mom life! So just getting to sharing now! Anyway, as we all know, Paris is just the best, there is really no other way to describe it. We only had 72 hours together (and Peanut you were so missed), but somehow it felt full and unhurried. Beyond grateful to Sézane for making this the best Paris trip yet!

Last disclaimer: since it was such a short trip we really stuck to Saint-Germain & Le Marais but those are our top two anyway!

Getting There

I took a redeye directly from Miami to Paris (and let me tell you, this flight without children, is like a sea treatment). I wanted to be comfortable but still be able to pull it together. I wore the striped sweater from La Ligne, a white tee from Soldout NYC underneath. On the bottom was the comfiest cashmere cable knit pants from Kilte. I paired the outfit with the perfect airport shoe from Rothy’s (Lilly was screaming when she saw). I brought my Mirth quilted jacket on the plane to throw on as soon as I landed. Lastly, a catch all carry-on bag from Jorja!

I still had major anxiety leaving the boys, but a little Pamela Anderson (The Last Showgirl) and some snacks (Air France handed out these yummy wafer cookies: Gavottes Crepes Fourrees…wanted to ask for 400 boxes OMG) had me relaxing in no time. Soon enough, I landed and met up with Lil!

Day One (Arrival)

We had so much to do in so little time so we checked in to our hotel in the 6th and headed straight to L’Appartement Sézane.

I kept my sweater on from the flight and threw on a silk skirt from Mirth to look less lost in translation. Added the best walking suede boots from Loeffler Randall and a suede jacket from Zara (here’s a similar one from J.Crew).

There is nothing not to love at L’Appartement Sézane. I wanted to walk out wearing everything. Check out their new arrivals here! They also had sandwich snacks for us. Je t’aime, Sézane.

We then beelined it to our forever-favorite: Le Relais de L’Entrecôte. Their steak frites may be our death row meal. This is where I gained the “junior year 15” while studying abroad. The steak arrives ridiculously right at medium rare (but ask for medium), drenched in their secret sauce, and paired with crispy matchstick fries. All drowned with a crispy coca-cola.

Lil had to go to an event so we stopped back by the hotel to change. I put on a pair of straight-leg jeans from J.Crew with suede detail down the side. Again a white tee underneath from Soldout NYC and an oversized V-neck sweater from Almina. For shoes, I wore a pair of boots from Alex Mill X Margaux (could run a marathon in them, btw). And since I had access to Lil’s suitcase I stole her Nili Lotan suede double-breasted trench!

I had a few hours to myself so my first stop was Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche. Bury me here. They have literally everything - my dream closet, clothes & toys for the boys, beautiful homeware, accessories & beauty galore, it’s impossible not to linger for hours.

I got my goddaughter the sweetest custom boxer shorts from C’est Moi Qui Pilote, and had to stop by the Call It By Your Name section to get a stroller tote.

Inside the market, they had a rock-and-roll/comedy exhibition called Motel Rock that I shamelessly walked through. Another choice of mine that made Lilly scream from afar.

I needed a snack so ran into Le Grand Epicure (more on this later) for some carottes râpées.

Kept walking around the 6th and popped into the Flabelus. Their slippers are extra padded in the bottoms and they honestly felt like a big bear hug on your feet. Left with these mustardy green velvet mary janes.

Next up was the greatest hour of my life. Sézane treated me to a facial massage with Jeanne Casimir. If you’re ever in the city, do yourself a favor and book this. She has a studio at Le Bon Marche! This treatment took place inside of the Sézane apartment, which beautifully overlooks the Eiffel Tower. My face and I drifted off into another land and I never wanted to leave.

Afterward, I met back up with Lil for a drink and some apps. I changed my outfit slightly! I changed my jeans to a dark wash pair from H&M and switched my white tee for a cashmere black turtleneck from Soldout NYC. I kept my same boots on from earlier! I ordered a basil smash (my current obsession) and a frites in a silver bowl the size of my head.

For dinner, we headed to Ojii, where we had multiple courses of nigiri and the crispiest hot tempura. We loved the cozy, sexy vibes here. Will be returning.

Day Two

Day two had an unusual start because we worked out…on vacation. We headed to Pilates at Aja House Paris and I promise you working out 1000x more enjoyable when the instructor speaks French. I wore my favorite Jenni Kayne sweater over a cropped white tank from LNA Clothing, paired with black leggings from Splits59.

Lil had more fashion week things to attend to so I made my way to La Grande Épicerie de Paris which is the meal motherland. I grabbed all the goods for a not so petit dejeuner for one: croissant, a jambon-beurre, and my most loved pain Suisse. To balance it out (kind of), I grabbed the most divine mango and pomegranate seeds. And because my mind was racing for a matcha I grabbed a hot one from Cody’s Bagels.

Spent a few hours at the hotel catching up on work then got ready to roam. Carpenter pants from Leset, suede jacket from Sézane, suede mary janes from Haven Well Within and the Jack bag from Zadig & Voltaire.

I spent over an hour at La Veste. Their upstairs is Parasol striped pants paradise. I finally decided on brown stripes & red overalls for Sawyer.

All my shopping indecisiveness made me miss the formal lunch window so I popped into Délices de Buci, which is essentially like an Eatzis hot bar of Asian food. Don’t judge a book by its cover, it was crazy good and my only regret is not ordering more.

After lunch I walked my way across the river to Le Marais to visit my gorgeous friend Sandrine at her jewelry store Sande. I couldn’t show up empty handed so popped into Maison Fleurus for the most beautiful bouquet of flowers I have ever seen.

Don’t go to Paris without visiting Sande and building your own beaded necklace! She also has a pop-up in Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche. I left with lots of goodies for me and the girls (Laingers included). P.S. Sandrine ships to the U.S. just DM her on Instagram!

Dinner time was approaching so changed into a lace top from DÔEN, and a black silk slip skirt from Anine Bing paired with my dark brown boots from before.

Tonight’s sister date was at Le Petit Lutetia. I started with a basil smash (no shock there) and for our appetizers, we ordered the beet salad, seared seabream carpaccio, and foie gras to share. We went heavy on their mushroom sauce and got the pasta and the chicken. Next time going lighter with the lobster Spaghetti and dover sole. Can’t leave without their chocolate mouse, it’s incredible and enough for five.

Day Three

We started the day with the most delicious & informative activity: a croissant-making class at Maison Fleuret. I wore an If Only If nightgown with a slip underneath and a leather belt from Déhanche. Sézane jacket and suede boots from Loeffler Randall to make it feel more like fall.

We learned how to make both the classic butter croissant and pain au chocolat, and what a labor of love it is! The class was about three hours long but we had the best time, would highly recommend doing this! School would have been so much more fun had there been piping hot pastries at the end of each lesson.

We had no plans the rest of the afternoon so we covered lots of ground.

Rubirosas to try on some loafers & every chic color button down imaginable.

Went back to Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche to pick up all of our custom pieces from C’est Moi Qui Pilote. Wilder going to be in big boy boxer heaven.

Had to stop by Sandrine’s pop-up to give her another squeeze then Casa Lopez to get some decorating ideas for home.

Another missed window of a formal lunch so we had quickest bite to eat at Xin Gainian of piping hot Vietnamese spring rolls and some katsu over udon noodles. We also grabbed the world’s best palmiers from The Smiths Bakery. We then got our steps in as we made our was to Le Marais, we stopped in for a quick matcha at Dreamin’Man (which inside The Broken Arm). I always ask for an Iced Matcha with whole milk and a half a pump of vanilla.

We went into Librarie Yvon Lambert to check out the their books and poster prints. I had to get these hugging mice as it reminded me of the boys (when they’re being extra sweet).

Since we were in the area, we HAD to get a smashburger from Dumbo. As much as I love a smashburger that’s super melty with caramelized onions and lots of sauce, a simple gourmet version of McDonald’s cannot be beat. They have done it better than I thought was humanly possible. It’s the perfect burger! Also, their tempura nuggets deserve a Michelin star. It’s a don’t miss!

We headed back to the hotel to rest our feet for a little before our final supper!

I wore a dress that was a few years old from DÔEN (here’s a similar one) and my shoes I bought at Flabelus (size up). I threw on, you guessed it, my suede jacket and headed to the French pharmacy for a few restocks before dinner at JAÏS.

Jais quickly became our favorite restaurant of the trip. Food was fabulous and the people even more so. And any pasta with caviar cannot be beat.

We walked home & sadly had to pack since our flights were early the next morning.

Thank you to Sézane for the most special three days together! Never wanted it to end!

See you soon, Paris!

Ali

Matcha & Morning Stops

I am OBSESSED with matcha. It’s basically a food group at this point.

Blue Provence – For the best croissant in Palm Beach. Buttery, flaky perfection.

Celis at The Royal (or in West Palm– The freshest juices and smoothies on the island! Their avocado toast with mozzarella and pesto is my forever favorite.

Composition Coffee (West Palm) – The best iced matcha. No question. I order mine with whole milk & local honey!

Drift Coffee – It’s located in the former Pastry Heaven spot (RIP sushi bar), but it’s adorable and offers great drinks & lunch food!

Greens Pharmacy – A small diner within the pharmacy, no frills, just fast-ish, greasy food! Love it here!!!

HIVE Cafe (West Palm) – Their vanilla bean syrup is so good (you can see the brown bean specs), and I could live off their breakfast potatoes. Ask for them to be extra crispy!

Pumphouse (West Palm) – It’s a warehouse vibe & they make a solid matcha. Plus, we love their breakfast tacos; just make sure to add bacon.

Sour Seed Bagels (West Palm) - Finally, we have good bagels! Even sourdough bagels at that! I always go toasted plain, Calabrian chili cream cheese & the simple salmon. Matcha’s not bad either!

St. Ambroeus – The prettiest spot in the plaza for a matcha, a coffee, and a croissant. I also LOVE their mini sandwiches, especially the tomato & mozzarella. It’s also one of the best spots to enjoy lunch or dinner outside. Caesar salad, cracker-thin pizza & pasta pomodoro.

Sunday Motor Co. (West Palm) - Part of the newly developed Nora District. There’s always a line, but I’d stand in it for their chili crisp eggs. Coffee & matcha and more, too!

West Palm Beach Green Market – On Saturdays and truly the best farmers market you will ever go to! Worth the early wake-up every time.

Lunch Favorites

Whether it’s a quick or leisurely lunch these are the spots I will always come back to.

Aioli (West Palm) - It’s our neighborhood spot, and I think I swing by at least once a day. I love the turkey club, and I check their specials obsessively, especially for the cream of poblano soup & shrimp bowl. We also always have their sourdough and pastries at the house.

Amici Market - A gourmet market that has staples & a great hot bar, but their winner is the chicken salad. Yummiest way to get a big serving of protein.

Buccan Sandwich Shop - A staple in our family. We’ve been obsessing over the beef carpaccio (extra sauce) for as long as they’ve been making it. I also love building my own wrap, the smoked turkey wrap, and the Italian sandwich with no tomatoes. And do not skip the housemade potato chips.

Field of Greens - Easy spot for salads & wraps. I go with the full of life salad, extra honey basil dressing, and add honey mustard. Also, their chocolate chip cookie can move mountains. My mom can’t go a day without one.

Honor Bar - It’s the coziest lunch spot, perfect for a rainy day. Another Hillstone spot. Always order the chicken meatballs, kale salad, and the French drip.

Le Bilboquet - Of course, it’s great for dinner, but I love sitting in the courtyard for lunch. My mom and I always split the gazpacho and the Cajun chicken, extra beurre blanc sauce. Don’t sleep on the endive salad either! P.S. Le Bilboquet Market is now open and you can get a quart of their gazpacho to go.

Lingonberry (PB Gardens) - The best BLT of my life. Seriously. Ever. Perfectly crisp bacon, juicy tomato, and toasted to perfection sourdough bread.

Piccolo Mondo - It’s a little window that shares a kitchen with Renato’s, and I am addicted to their chicken Caesar wrap. My order is no croutons, extra side of Caesar dressing & a side of balsamic. All served with Ruffles chips & a pickle, lunch heaven!

Pubsub!! - A sub from Publix. Can’t go to the beach and not bring one!

Tropical Smokehouse (West Palm) - Such an easy and delicious spot, especially with the kids. They are speedy! Everything is good, but our go-tos are the whitefish dip, the trop house cobb, & the smash burger!

Where to Sip & Snack

Whether it’s a quick snack or a casual cocktail, these are my go-to spots for taking a little break!

Cucina - I am past my partying at Cucina prime, but if you are young and fun, this is a must.

Mary Lou’s (West Palm) - If I ever do make it out past 9pm, then it’s for dancing at Mary Lou’s. It’s loungey and dark with a great DJ in the old Bait & Tackle building.

Scandy Candy - Swedish candy store at The Royal with a better than I could imagine selection.

Swifty’s at The Colony - For “just a cocktail” that turns into two, plus their puffed chips with guac drizzled in agave. Impossible to resist.

The Seafood Bar at The Breakers - You can look out at the ocean, and the bar is an actual fish tank!

Dinner Go-Tos

Palm Beach dinners - some are pastimes and some are new.

Bricktops - Always reliable (a great lunch option too, they have a nice terrace), it has a Hillstone-ish vibe, you always know what you’re going to get! Standouts are the shanghai shrimp, little gem salad with blackened salmon, chicken milanese & the warm butter crab roll. The prickly pear martini is so good but learn from me and don’t wear all white!

Blue Door (West Palm) - Best addition to the SOSO neighborhood, the majority of the restaurant is outside but covered, it’s open and airy, and the food is Mediterranean-inspired. It’s all good, and don’t forget to order the chocolate soufflé.

Buccan - (Imoto’s next-door neighbor) - It’s the most creative & exciting menu in PB! My sisters and I could marry the Corn Agnolotti and you can’t have a bad dish here. Also, the Buccan tea makes for a fun night out.

Echo - It’s a Breaker’s restaurant (though not on the hotel property), and they have a great sushi happy hour. And they make a mean Peking duck! Great for takeout too.

Flanigan’s (West Palm) - Florida family staple and Wilder’s favorite restaurant. Their ribs and broccoli are my guilty pleasure (yes, broccoli… buttery, garlicky perfection).

Imoto - I eat Imoto for dinner more than I should probably admit but it’s the best sushi for miles and miles. Hard to pick favorites but the hamachi crispy rice, the peking duck tacos , imoto salad & super salmon roll. And a boat full of nigiri please.

Jewell Bistro (Lake Worth) - A tiny dive restaurant with a different menu every night. A couple runs it, and the food is phenomenal. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll catch it during a Chinese food week.

La Sirena (West Palm) - It’s a fancier, quieter spot, but I think the best Italian food around, aka we always go when my dad is in town. They also have a very cool wine room you can rent for a small group.

La Marina (West Palm) - On the water and the food is SO good, like literally everything and it’s just a fun happening spot.

Lola 41 - Another sushi happy plus Peking Duck spot! You can also get Crab Rangoons here. Enough said. This is a fun girls trip spot!

Mr. B’s (West Palm) - It’s an upsacle tavern, great spot for kids bc they have a pool table and darts! Indulge with the french onion dip, wings & a burger.

Oceano (Lake Worth) - It’s come a long way since its first location but the food has remained the same and still feels like a small, seasonal local spot. The pasta pomodoro is so simple but so complex at the same time. Order everything family style!

Palm Beach Grill - It will forever be the best and will always remind of my dinner with my grandfather! It is a Hillstone establishment so has lots of the classics with a few specials! Jarrett and I could make a meal out of their oysters rockefeller and I also love their wedige and Florida red snapper. And can’t leave without an ice cold extra dirty martini.

Pizza Al Fresco - As casual as PB dining gets but it’s perfect and so pretty. Best spot for an early dinner with kids!

Renatos - Another old school PB spot, dining on the terrace feels dreamy and I will forever love their penne vodka.

Skinny Louie’s (West Palm) - It’s newer and I am obsessive over their smashburger.

Where to Stay

From kid-friendly escapes to a perfect couple getaway, these are my favorite Palm Beach stays.

The Brazilian Court - The only drawback is it doesn’t have beach access, but it is the most beautiful and feels like old school Palm Beach! I also get my hair done here (I see Jodi at the salon!)

The Breakers - For a true resort feel, it is the best, and I could eat the Greek salad by the pool 100x over!

The Colony Hotel - Our favorite, hands down. It’s kid-friendly but also the perfect couples getaway or staycation spot.

Four Seasons - It’s hard to say it’s Palm Beach since it’s 20 minutes south, but it’s a gorgeous property, and they have a fabulous spa! It’s a perfect getaway if you want to be away from the scene.

Shopping Favorites

Shopping in Palm Beach is sectioned into Worth Ave or The Royal Poinciana Plaza, and everything in between!

Closer to Worth Section

Aerin - Everything Aerin makes is perfect, and she carries so many good brands, always has an amazing edit of clothing and a great trunk show rotation every season.

ASHA - My ASHA tunic collection is growing & growing. Easy to throw on and instantly feel elevated.

BURU - Newly opened and every piece has its own personality! Perfect price point too.

Casa Branca - Where I go to design day dream.

Church Mouse - The greatest vintage/consignment store to ever exist! A Palm Beach treasure.

Julia Amory - I love Julia & everything she has created in the JA world. Fun fact - she made all my wedding linens!

LAKE - Another spot that just opened on Worth Ave. My whole family lives in their pajamas.

Kassatly’s - A Palm Beach establishment for the most timeless pajamas and nightgowns.

Via Coquina - Everything in there is cool, it’s my go to for gifts.

Well Made Home - The best place for home essentials and thoughtfully crafted pieces.

Near The Royal Section

Assouline - My go-to for beautiful coffee table books.

Coniglio Palm Beach – You can find it all at Coniglio but their bright colors, free-sizing, and power pareos make getting dressed extra fun.

Jenni Kayne - Effortless staples I reach for constantly! Their sweaters are my forever fav, and I adore the entire JK PB team.

Kirna Zabete - A fashion destination for statement pieces and standout designer finds.

Living with Ivey - Ivey is my health/wellness GURU, literally she needs a hotline. Her store has pretty much everything you could need.

Roller Rabbit - A must for bright prints, beach cover-ups, and matching sets for you and the kids. You can’t leave without at least one pair of their pajamas.

Zadig & Voltaire - Reminds me of Paris and that’s enough!

Spa & Wellness

For a little self-care, indulgence, or just to reset, these spots keep me feeling my best - inside and out.

Anushka Spa – My favorite for brow lamination, blowouts, and spa treatments.

Brazilian Court Salon - Located inside the Brazilian Court Hotel. My go-to for hair - always reliable.

Labarre Pilates - Pilates-based, low-impact classes that focus on toning and strength and leave you sore in the best way.

Maison de Forme (West Palm) - Well-rounded classes, including reformer Pilates, in a beautiful, calm space that make you feel strong and balanced.

Sana Skin Studio (West Palm) - Results-driven skincare with a more modern approach. Perfect for when your skin needs a reset.

Tammy Fender - A Palm Beach staple for facials and skincare. Calm, restorative, and always leaves you glowing.

Trap House (West Palm) - Strength-focused training with high-energy classes, plus sauna and cold plunge for recovery.

For the Kids

When it comes to shopping for Wilder and Sawyer, I love mixing classic pieces with a bit of fun.

HIVE Kids – My go-to for outfits, books, and gifts.

La Coqueta - Just opened up at the Royal. When I tell you that these are the cutest kids clothes you will ever find, believe me! The owner, Celia, is the absolute sweetest and the genius behind the designs.

Leta Austin Foster – For timeless pieces and beautiful toys that double as keepsakes.

Pastels – Another favorite for classic, preppy looks that somehow still feel playful. Also offers personal styling.

PB Boys Club – Has the best surf vibe! Easy tees, board shorts, and that laid-back beachy PB vibe.

Spring Flowers – Classic Palm Beach children’s style done right. Fav for formal looks.

Things to do outside of eating & shopping

Flagler Museum - Surprisingly great for kids. Wide open spaces, big rooms to explore, and an easy way to introduce a little history without it feeling like a lesson.

Four Arts Garden - A beautiful spot for kids to slow down and explore nature.

Palm Beach Recreation Center - A great spot for kids to run around, play, and burn off energy in a safe, fun environment.

Ride bikes on Lake Trail - A Palm Beach classic. Flat, scenic, and peaceful, with just enough to keep kids entertained while still being relaxing for adults.

I’ll keep editing/adding but hope you find a delicious meal a find a perfect day in PB. If you visit any of my favorites, tag me - I love seeing where you end up and what you order!

xo, Ali

Subscribe now

1. J.Crew | 2025 Rollneck™ Sweater in Stripe – the sweater of the season.

2. Dorsey | Cecilia Earrings in Moissanite – these have become an everyday staple for me.

3. Mason Pearson | Handy Hair Brush – iconic for a reason.

4. Rare Beauty | Harmony Flexible Lifting Eyebrow Gel – the perfect finishing touch for my eyebrows.

5. Liffner | Belted Bucket Bag in Dark Brown Suede – obsessed with all things suede right now.

6. Rothy’s | The Cozy Clog in Honeybun Bouclé – because slippers can still be stylish.

7. Nicola Bathie | Greenwich Bubble Necklace – a statement piece that feels timeless.

8. Hotel Lobby Candle | Hamptons Reed Diffuser – fresh, farmers market scent for any space.

9. Heaven Mayhem | Baby Knot Earrings – understated gold perfection that elevates any look.

10. Warby Parker | Carmel Sunglasses – a classic style that matches any outfit.

11. Heaven Mayhem | Diana Icon Watch in Gold/Black – a timeless watch to have forever.

12. Henri Noël | Matcha Milkshake Gemstone Ring – me in a ring: combines my love of matcha milkshakes and jewels.

13. Crown Affair | The Hydrating Shampoo –an essential that has changed my hair and actually works.

14. YSE Beauty | Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads – gentle, glow-boosting skincare.

15. Otiumberg | Solid Gold Personalized Name Bracelet (Made to Order) – sentimental and so special.

16. Lilly Sisto x Viani Milano | St. Tropez Mary Jane – duh!

For a full list of my holiday picks, you can shop everything on my ShopMy!
Shop the full gift guide here → ASD Holiday Gift Guide for Her

Happy Shopping & Cheers to the beginning of the Holiday Season!

-Ali

1. Carhartt | Short Watch Hat in Tobacco – classic and cool for winter days.

2. Match South | Frames + Prints – a thoughtful and sentimental gift for his office or home.

3. Laguiole | Corkscrew in Snakewood – for the entertainer or wine lover.

4. On Running | Cloudnova 2 Sneakers – the most comfortable and stylish sneaker.

5. Cadets | Course Short – effortless and comes in so many colors.

6. Holderness & Bourne | The Barker Belt – can’t go wrong with a genuine leather belt that’s amazing quality.

7. Sid Mashburn | Laptop Case – sleek and practical for work or travel.

8. Barbour | Coalford Fleece Gloves – perfect for cold weather.

9. Cadets | Collared Crewneck Sweatshirt – a sweatshirt that doesn’t look like a sweatshirt.

10. Frame | Sunglasses in Havana – modern classic pair of sunglasses for men.

11. Shinola | Vachetta Leather Card Case – extremely well made and very sleek.

12. Soludos | Men’s Smoking Espadrille in Laguna Blue – laid-back, coastal cool comfort.

13. J.Crew Factory | Woven Boxers Three-Pack – an everyday essential in a mix of solids and patterns.

For a full list of my holiday picks, you can shop everything on my ShopMy!
Shop the full gift guide here → ASD Holiday Gift Guide for Him

Happy Shopping & Cheers to the beginning of the Holiday Season!

-Ali

1. ChappyWrap | ABC Blanket – the softest blanket to snuggle with.

2. Pehr | Muslin Pant – a staple in Wilder’s wardrobe.

3. La Coqueta | Senna Romper – timeless European charm for the littles. Outstanding designs and quality.

4. Childrenchic | Sam Loafers - a staple shoe for dressy occasions.

5. Gathre | Doorway Basketball Hoop – for endless indoor fun plus its aesthetically pleasing for the home.

6. Pehr | Park Jacket – a touch of style to everyday outerwear.

7. Janie & Jack | Baby Horse Pom Beanie – irresistibly cute and perfectly soft.

8. Appaman | Denali Down Coat – warmth that doesn’t sacrifice style.

9. Amazon | Wooden Scoop & Serve Ice Cream Counter – skill building toy that my boys love.

10. Quince | Washable Cashmere Cable One Piece & Hat Set – the sweetest gift for baby’s first winter.

11. Cadets | Boy’s Classic Cotton Shorts – classic and comes in so many colors.

12. M&D Threads | TravelBackpack – perfect for school days and can be monogramed.

13. Amazon | Messi boys Lifestyle Short Sleeve 2-piece Set – perfect for any soccer fan (Wilder lives in this!)

14. Quince | Washable Cashmere Leggings – cozy and practical for little loungers.

15. Pehr | Pathfinder Boot in Moss – adorable and great quality for the outdoors.

For a full list of my holiday picks, you can shop everything on my ShopMy!
Shop the full gift guide here → ASD Holiday Gift Guide for Kids

Happy Shopping & Cheers to the beginning of the Holiday Season!

-Ali

Saturday

6:00 am: Depart PBI. Starbucks matcha milkshake to kick things off, never memorable but always reliable. My mom and I had Vicky Cristina Barcelona queued up (because if Penélope Cruz yelling in Spanish doesn’t wake you up, nothing will) and the Aloha bars that are always in my carry on, while the kids had their ‘healthy Lunchables,’ the Amazon Fire, and whatever toy currently has Sawyer in a trance.

My only order: iced matcha latte, whole milk, no sweetener, 1 pump of vanilla

10:00 am: Land at LGA and grab an Uber. JetBlue has its downsides, but between the legroom, the snack choices, and the guaranteed seatback TV, I still think it is the best US airline for kids.

11:00 am: Check in to the Soho Grand. We had originally booked a Grand King, but it was way too tight for two adults and two kids (one in a crib). We asked about upgrades and for only $50 a night got bumped to a Deluxe Corner. The extra space made all the difference.

11:30 am: Peanut saved us with a snack from Los Tacos No. 1, because patience is not our strength. The pork is non-negotiable.

My work jacket, butter linen pants, silver on suede shoes, and big bucket bag. Jarrett in his travel always tee and pants. Wilder in his plane pants.

12:30 pm: Lunch at Fairfax because Peanut eats their burger once a week and swears by it. I never go for thick burgers, but I could eat this one every day. Order the crispy potatoes extra crispy, and do not skip the Caesar, the BLT, or the tater tots.

2:00 pm: Shop stops at Goop, Leset, DÔEN, Reformation, Sabah, and Kith Kids. It felt like we brought Florida with us, so I grabbed a pair of denim shorts and changed on the spot. Wilder cleaned up with new shoes, sneakers, shorts, and a shirt.

Cashmere shorts we all agreed on, and Counter not Beauty is back!

4:00 pm: Downpour detour to Enly for a tiramisu matcha and ooey-gooey chocolate chip cookie. We then walked to BonBon for a sugar fix, but the store was flooded so they gave us a free bag & said come back tomorrow.

Potato heads & my Kilte cashmere.

5:00 pm: We said ‘just a slice’ at Lucia (directly across from the hotel), and five minutes later we were housing a whole pie. The square is the move, but don’t sleep on the spinach slice. Add hot honey.

6:00 pm: Showers, set up the SlumberPod, and get the boys settled with the sitter.

7:00 pm: Drinks downstairs, the hotel bar was bumping! I had an incredible gin cocktail that very quickly turned into two, whoops.

8:00pm: Dinner at a special spot with the girls but if it wasn’t there I would have wanted BondST or Brasserie Fouquet's or Torissi.

MNO in a sheer top & skirt (code Alexandra10), kitten heels & suede bag.

Sunday

8:00 am: Hotel blackout shades are too good, the kids slept in and so did we. My head, however, was still negotiating last night’s gin. It was raining so we geared up and walked to Win Son Bakery, which had been at the top of my wish list. They make a BEC (bacon egg and cheese) on a scallion pancake and it was unreal. As was the sticky sweet savory pork fan tuan with a side of spicy gingery mayo. Plus their hot matcha latte. We would be there every weekend if we lived here.

A rundown of our rain gear…my trench, Wilder’s windbreaker & Soy’s gingham (code Alex15.

10:00 am: We had a reservation for the Bluey CAMP experience. I took Wilder to the Trolls one last year and he was flying high. This one was very cute too, but I now need a six month sabbatical from all things Bluey.

11:00 am: Walked to the West Village because there was no escaping a BonBon visit. As predicted, Wilder was like a kid in a candy store, literally.

12:00 pm: Back to the hotel because we were all heavy eyed. The boys napped and I clocked into posting content.

Laingers brought me a bag of delicious delights from Dominique Ansel.

2:30 pm: Met up with everyone for lunch at Dim Sum Go Go. Ask for a table upstairs, it has that 90s Chinese carpet cozy feel. The food was delicious, the portions on the smaller side so we may have prematurely over ordered, and I did miss the old school dim sum carts. Will try House of Joy next time.

Sawyer sauce was in his soy sauce element.

4:00 pm: We walked to One World Trade and did our best to explain such a heavy place in the lightest way we could to Wilder.

4:30 pm: Made it to Mercer Labs for their current immersive show ‘Maestros & The Machines.’ Think lights, mirrors, music… and a full Broadway worthy fall from my husband. We loved it, the kids loved it, highly recommend.

Denim that went the duration.

5:30 pm: Stopped for a snack at Rigor Hill Market. The $12 watermelon with lime felt outrageous, but it was completely divine. We also popped into Happier Grocer to see what the hype was about. It was beautiful, bougie, and they’re serving Ballerina Farm protein powder soft serve.

6:00 pm: We thought about going to Rubirosa for an early dinner, but takeout back at the tower sounded serene since we had to be up early the next morning for a special project in Greenwich. As usual, I wanted sushi and Jarrett wanted Mexican, so we ordered both. Peanut always boasts about Douska (but called Doumo on UberEats) and I was blown away — small cut rolls, super fresh, build your own crispy rice, actual spicy spicy mayo. It is everything I wish I could order in Florida. Jarrett went for the viral burrito from Son del North and it was next level, the tortilla was doughy and stretchy in the best way, and their green salsa could make anything taste incredible. The perfect move to stay in, eat too much, and watch a movie.

8:00 pm: After 48 hours of eating, I tried to undo it all with a Korean face mask my mom found and self-tan drops from Sephora. Who books a photoshoot on a Monday anyway 😉?

Sawyer with his skincare (code DANIEL) & me with mine.

Bonus: I went to Morgenstern’s later in the week (Wilder, if you are reading this, forgive me). Order the chocolate sea salt, it is basically Parisian chocolate mousse in a scoop.

With that being said, Jarrett and Wilder headed back to Florida for work and school while Sawyer and I stayed in the city for sistor time and a taste of NYFW. More on that soon.

Love you!!!
Ali

For the most part, friendships have always come easy to me. I am not someone who keeps up with a million people, but I have always been good at being close with a small circle. So when we moved to Florida during Covid, I expected that same circle feel to fall into place pretty quickly.

It did not. And for the first time, I found myself feeling insecure about them.

I was really blessed, lucky, whatever you want to call it, from the first day of college. Well, even before that. I met my best friend at orientation, and from that meet cute our group grew and we grew up together. After graduation most of us just… stayed. We lived together, ate every meal together, and had sewn ourselves into each other’s lives. From 18 to 23, we basically raised each other, and then rolled into our mid to late twenties still side by side. It was constant and messy and full of the kind of loyalty you only get from living through bad breakups, bad jobs, and being each other’s lifelines in those formative years.

But then being a grown up comes knocking, and with that comes marriages, moves, mortgages, and mini humans.

And listen, I had always wanted to move to Palm Beach. It had always been my home away from home, so when Covid capsized our life in Dallas I was not just excited, I was relieved. I was pregnant with our first, moving in with my 90 year old grandmother (that is a whole other story), living next door to my mom, and about to live somewhere that felt like vacation every day.

I am probably not supposed to say this, but I loved Covid. I would even go so far as to say I sometimes miss it. Let’s be clear, I do not miss the illness or the devastation, just the personal social side. It fed my small circle soul. When we moved to Palm Beach I was lucky to already have one of my best friends there, so those lockdown days felt like a continuation of college. The only pressures at the time were to keep to ourselves and grow our babies, two things I happen to really enjoy.

But then the gates opened, and it felt like someone yelled “ready, set, socialize” after a year of sitting still.

So even though we had been in Florida for more than a year, once the world reopened it somehow felt like we were starting at square one. And right away I wanted all my new friends to feel like my old friends. Instead of letting those friendships breathe, I smothered them in expectation. When was it going to feel like college again? When would it click? Why were we not texting all day? Why did I not already know their entire family tree and which dive bar held their dignity hostage?

Here is what I have figured out: in your thirties, friendships do not just fall into your lap. They take time, they take effort. Everyone has kids, jobs, school drop offs, family stuff, and a million things pulling at them. You have to actually make space for it. It is not like college where you were sharing a bathroom, deleting drunk dials, and reminiscing over leftover cold queso. Now you are scheduling hangouts three weeks out and praying no one cancels (but also secretly hoping they do).

A friend finally said what I needed to hear: stop comparing. Like hello, lightbulb. These friendships are not supposed to feel like college, because life is not college anymore. They are not built on marathon couch sessions but on postpartum play by plays and getting a whole catch up in over your child’s half eaten mac and cheese. They are stroller walks, quick carpool calls, and wine nights on a random Wednesday whim. And once I let go of the pressure for them to feel like my old friendships, I learned to love, cherish, and count on these new ones, babysitter bills and all.

So now that I am in my mid thirties (yikes), I finally feel like I have a grasp on acknowledging that this season is all about transition. I changed plenty in my twenties, but this time it feels more intentional. I am constantly reminding myself to slow down, let things marinate, be less reactive, and give everything and everyone the time they deserve — friendships, family, and mostly myself.

Ok, we’ve covered the deep stuff, now let’s get shallow. Just like we all need friends in our lives, here are the things I need in mine right now:

• Leset Kyoto Carpenter Pants: I bought these in person in the city after shedding the jeweled jeans I had on (they’re for looking pretty, not pounding pavement). Now I need more than one pair and am specifically stalking cypress to come back in stock. Added bonus: said our military color is very The Row coded.

• Dorsey Porter Cushion Cut Drop Earrings: I swear I feel a hundred times prettier with a diamond stud in, it is really that simple. These catch the light just right and make me feel so so so much more bright.

• Reduce Aspen 20oz: I would drink a matcha milkshake the size of our pool every day if I could, but then I would never sleep and the baby weight might never budge. This cup is as big as my glassware should get, and it keeps everything cold. Less ice, more milk, more milkshake. Current matcha I’m mixing.

• My Your Reformer: To be fair, I have not used it yet because my husband has not finished setting it up, firmly in the blue job category. But I already know it is going to change my life and get me closer to my long lean leg goals. We went with the foldable option since it will be living in our TV room slash playroom slash everything room.

• Magic Molecule Spray: What Windex was to Gus Portokalos, Magic Molecule is to me. I spray that stuff on everything. All hail my healthy living healer Ivey, because there is nothing this spray cannot do. Sawyer’s eczema, gone. Wilder’s whines, gone. My bacne, gone.

• Nuuds Vintage Cotton Everyday T-Shirt: Everyday is not just a marketing ploy, I really do bring that statement to life. They are the perfect casual tee (not to be confused with a fancy tee) and I am obsessed. I have both smalls and mediums, and my indecisiveness refuses to pick a side because I love them equally. I also just tried their bodysuit and you best believe I back it.

• Dr. Diamond’s Medicine Instafacial Trio: I am only halfway through, but I committed to using the trio and only the trio (besides tinted SPF, I rotate between this and this). I am trying the trio to basically be my Botox, and with that price tag it better be. So far my face feels like glass at night, and I think I look a little glowier in photos. TBD, but so far so good.

• Helix Dusk Luxe Mattress: I used to work for Hilton Hotels… about ten years ago. It was finally time to say goodbye to our Waldorf wonder. We loved the Helix sleeper quiz, and we have loved the actual sleep just as much.

• Crown Affair Overnight Repair Serum: I am half horse and my hair length is at its height. The only way to manage it myself (without a blowout, which I do plenty by the way) is by painting it with product. This one really helps calm it down at night and weigh the waves without the dreaded buildup.

• Silver Salomons: I stepped in dog poo seconds before finishing my walk tonight. I will be responsible and clean them, but I could ’t help noticing my size is in stock in these shiny non smelly ones.

Chat soon!! xx Ali

Here is the tradeoff: one meltdown for a hundred magical, heart exploding, pinch me I am dreaming moments. Maybe that sounds a little over the top, but it is the truth. I have never felt the travel bug stronger than I do now. I want to take my boys everywhere, and I do not believe there is such a thing as too young to remember. I still carry tiny flashes of fun from trips we took when I was little. And with two boys, I know our weekends will one day be swallowed up by the dreaded S word, sports.

Pragmatic & pretty in an If Only If gown, Ray-Ban original wayfarers & Alexa Leigh hoops

So my motto for our family right now is simple: let’s go. A bigger house or even just a new front door can all wait. Once the basics are covered, most of our budget finds its way into travel.

Now to this summer’s soiree. We always take a big family trip the first week of August, and this year’s destination was Crete (I’ll craft a Crete post soon). We usually tack on a second stop since one week in Europe feels like an Irish exit. You have barely arrived and suddenly you are gone. A few summers ago we stayed in Mougins in the South of France, and I was eager to return but curious to explore a different corner. My sister had spent a few weeks in Saint-Rémy last summer and told me to stop, drop, and book a trip there immediately. The moment she mentioned a carousel in the center of town, I knew we had found our footing.

Carousel circles in a Sézane dress, Monday hat, Viani shoes & J.Crew tote

Here is a general overview of our week, and I will get into the weeds a little later on:

Saturday: Fly into Marseille Airport (a lovely airport, by the way), rent a car through Sixt, and drive to our hotel, Château des Alpilles. Spend the afternoon by the pool and have dinner in town at Edù Restaurant.

Sunday: Explore Saint-Rémy, lunch in town at Chez Mamine and have dinner back at the hotel.

Monday: Drive an hour south to the beach club La Playa in Camargue, then have a picnic dinner back at the hotel.

Tuesday: Drive an hour to Aix-en-Provence for a day of shopping then find a pizza spot back in Saint-Rémy for dinner.

Wednesday: Spend the morning at the Saint-Rémy market, followed by a vineyard tour and tasting at Château d’Estoublon. Dinner at Le Bistrot les Pieds Dans l’Eau.

Thursday: Day trip to Gordes, stop at Pascale Mestre on the way, lunch at Clover Gordes at Airelles La Bastide, and dinner at Mesiba in Saint-Rémy.

Friday: Relax by the pool in the morning, then drive an hour to Château La Coste for lunch at Francis Mallmann’s restaurant. Continue on to the Hilton Garden Inn in Marseille for the night.

Saturday: Early 6 a.m. flight to Frankfurt and then home to Miami.

Now let’s get down to the details. Side note: I am keeping this very itinerary based and will save the ins and outs of traveling with kids for another post, because that is its own survival guide. And yes, this is long, but a trip this good deserves all the details.

Saturday: Arrival

You could fly into Nice or Marseille, but Marseille is much closer and the car rental experience there felt significantly less stressful. We rented through Sixt, which we had also used in Crete, and found their customer service quick and their cars very nice. Our best friends, another family of four, were meeting us at the hotel, so everything we did was as a group of eight: four adults and four kids aged three, four, one, and eleven months.

We booked Château des Alpilles on the recommendation of a friend who had stayed there with her husband. It is a breathtaking property, an old château on gorgeous grounds. We stayed in La Lavoir, the old washhouse, which is a freestanding two bedroom cottage. While the hotel implies they are family friendly, they are also very very French, which may not match what Americans think of as family friendly. For example, our children were told several times to be quiet at the pool because guests were trying to enjoy their lunch. But to go to France is to love the French, quirks and all.

Anyway, back to our arrival. We drove an hour, checked in, and were welcomed by Vlad, the man of many wonders on the property, whom we quickly nicknamed Vlad the Vampire. He got us settled and gave us a tour. We unpacked, baby proofed the cottage as best we could, and set up the SlumberPod. If you have a crib sleeper and do not travel with this, you are making a mistake.

In front of La Lavoir in an Asha dress, Viani mary janes, Saint-Rue 22 tote & the boys in Bea Colette

Next stop was town. We headed in to ride the carousel, or more accurately carousels, since the boys rode it fifteen times. The carousel couple must be raking it in; I am guessing we spent close to forty euros a day on tokens.

Dinner was a quick drive away at Edú, a farm to table style restaurant in a garden with a koi pond. The menu is small enough that you can try nearly everything, but the pizzettes were so good we ordered seconds. The kids loved this spot even more than we did thanks to a tableside treat of koi corralling.

And can you guess what came next? Back in the car, because I cannot spend a night in France without a crepe. We drove back into town for crepes, ice cream, and of course one more carousel ride. Then we stumbled into a concert in the town square. The band was incredible but our kids put on their own show. Someone please find that group and make them famous.

Kept giggling that bottom left was giving Astronomer

Sunday: Full day in Saint-Rémy

This was our day to savor Saint-Rémy. We woke up with boulangerie on our brains and walked into town from the hotel (Doona for Sawyer, Yoyo for Wilder). Saint Remy is so charming, shaped like a circle with little alleyways tucked inside. Contrary to my buttery daydreams, there was not a boulangerie on every corner, but we sniffed one out. The order: croissants, pain sucre, and pain suisse. I also swung by a cheese shop to pick up poolside provisions: a fresh creamy goat cheese and thin slices of spicy saucisson. And I may or may not have packed a few Coros with me. A girl needs her comforts.

The rest of the morning was spent by the pool, which happens to be directly next to the hotel lunch service. A pro and a con. It leans fancy, and wild child Americans are not exactly on the menu. Thankfully the lounge chairs are set back enough that we could set up shop and snack away without too many disapproving glances.

Wine in one hand & photo of Andie one-piece in the other

For a late lunch we headed back into town to dine at Chez Mamine, tucked into a quintessential square with very traditional French cafe fare. I ordered the beef tartare, each bite piled with a salty soggy frite and a little tangle of mustard vinaigrette salad. Dessert was, of course, another carousel ride. We bopped around town and I stumbled on the perfect straw bag. No need to wait for the Wednesday market, the size, the straw, the straps, it was bisous bisous.

Straw bag store here

Back at the hotel, dinner was the main event. Chateau des Alpilles is known for its gastronomy program, especially the terrace dinners under the stars. It was as dreamy as a dinner could get. Sawyer’s high chair was fabulous but the least bit functional, very French again. We ordered so much; everything was seasonal and stunning. The childrens dishes were so good they were passed around the table too: mini croque madames and the best buttered noodles. My only recommendation is to go big at this meal, because it is one to remember.

My La Ligne satin set & Jennifer Behr shell necklace, Audrey’s DÔEN dress & the boys in Shop Lolini

Monday: Beach Day

It was beach day, babies. We started with our first onsite breakfast and wow, it could never disappoint. The hot buttery croissants put the day before’s to shame, the freshly squeezed orange juice made my citrus loving conscience sing, and the scrambled eggs were pure silk. Plus the sounds, the scents, the scene, it was exactly what I imagine when I think of Provence.

Few Moda smocked shirt & Kilte washable cashmere shorts

We packed up and hit the road, driving a little over an hour to the region of Camargue. We had reservations at the recommended La Playa in Saintes Maries de la Mer. The drive was through farmland, and just when Wilder’s car ride boredom hit its peak, the horses showed up and saved the day. There are two things about the owner of La Playa. He is known as the hot Australian, and the title is accurate. He is also tough. When I tried to book with kids in the middle of a heatwave, he basically told me no. I argued, he resisted, I bullied a little, and I won. In the end, he was wonderful, but consider this proof that persistence pays off.

The babies had high chairs, beautiful high chairs at that

This spot felt like a true local hangout, which made us love it even more. The water was shallow, the sand was filled with sun worshippers and cigarette smokers, and we knew immediately it was going to be the perfect day. We had reserved both a beach bed and lunch, which is very important, and sat down around two o’clock. The chefs in the open kitchen gave the impression that they do not mess around. The food was really good. We ordered plenty, but the clams, the smashburger, and the tacos were standouts. Then we got slightly swindled on our entrees. The hot Australian told us he had fresh crawfish, and we pictured Louisiana style. Sold. We added that plus a freshly caught fish. What arrived were two lobsters the size of Sawyer. I will just say every bite was blissful but the bill was not.

La Veste Yellow Towel Tunic, Monday Florence Sun hat, Sézane heart necklace, Red StyleSt swimsuit, Amazon Rope Sandals & Coniglio Pareo

After enough fun in the sun, we headed back, stopping at the local grocery store and Chez Karen, which sit side by side, to load up on provisions for a picnic. Since dinner is served on the terrace, the pool area is empty at night, so we took over a table and had what is always one of my favorite meals in France. All you need is baguette, meats, cheeses (the blue really got me here), jam, potato chips (try to find mustard flavored), a little chocolate cake, and you are cooking.

Pink J.Crew slip dress, yellow Jenni Kayne sweater & boy in the baggy Pehr pants

Tip: I always just ask the store owners what they recommend and go with that, it makes it swift and simple!

Tuesday: Aix-en-Provence

Breakfast at the hotel again, and every single day hereafter. Since we did not make it to Paris this trip, I was craving a bit of city life and even more, city shopping. People say Aix is a mini Paris, and that is not wrong. Side note, the week we were there was during a heatwave and Aix was particularly hot, which made my husband particularly angry at the shopping spree we sprung on him. It gave me such a giggle.

Our first stop was Lulli, a chic boutique with a cafe right next door that serves matcha, and a good one at that. I will save the full story of my matcha milkshake for another post. From there we wandered into La Fabrique Aixoise, where I found the sweetest animal prints for the boys room by the artist Les Caprices de Jo.

Shopping was cut short thanks to the overheated, hangry husbands, so we stopped for lunch at Café Caumont, tucked inside the ground floor of the Caumont Art Centre. The menu is mostly salads plus a daily special. I ordered their version of a Chinese chicken salad, only with shrimp, and the Asian flavors were exactly what I needed.

For something sweet we found not only granité, but organic granité at Les Biscuits d’Aix en Provence. It was seriously divine and each sip felt like sweet relief. Our last stop was La Farinoman Fou, known to be the best boulangerie in Aix, but we arrived too late. Make sure to go in the morning if you want to try it.

As breezy as I could be in an Ozma of California dress

Jarrett could not be convinced to stay a minute longer, so we headed back for a pool plunge. We had failed to make a dinner reservation, which was a big mistake because Tuesday nights in Saint Remy are the night. It should have been obvious since the market is Wednesday morning. We tried to eat at De Peppe and Pizzette but had no luck, so we ended up at Antico Mulino. My recommendation is to make a reservation at De Peppe or Pizzette.

All for the Alicia Bell cotton Tunic Dress

Tip: parking in Aix is a nightmare, so plug in parking garages nearby and find one a bit outside the city center.

Wednesday: Market Day & Vineyard Tasting

Go early and go hungry. Of course I was excited about the bags, antiques, and rare finds, and there are plenty of those, but oh my goodness the food. And I am not just talking about the produce. I mean vendors with piping hot fried zucchini and eggplant. The crispiest, most flavorful Vietnamese spring rolls. Roast chicken drippings over glistening potatoes. Buckets of fresh dips, homemade jams and chutneys, stinky cheeses that had us salivating. They had everything, and we were in food heaven.

The kids made their daily trip to the town toy store. It is darling but such a money drain. Each toy lasts about an hour, but there is no escaping — we are weak like that. The dads were on duty and took the kids to the park across from the grocery store (so cute) after our feast, which left Audrey and me to walk and wander. It is extremely crowded and the sheer number of vendors is overwhelming, so besides the food we did not buy much. We did stumble across Colette Cafe, though, which sold iced matchas just the way we like them. I would say the market is more about the experience than the shopping, unless you plan to haul back a million straw bags and resell them. Oh, but I did discover the MUUÑ collection and I will be ordering one of their bags.

Byrdie skort & Salomons to manage the market

At three o’clock we had a vineyard tour and tasting at Chateau d’Estoublon (my friend Megan said it was a must), and it made for such a lovely afternoon. They were more than accommodating with the kids and even gave us a ride in a covered cart. The estate is a private residence that can be rented out, and I have already told Lilly and Peanut that one of them has to be married there. It is a Provence wonderland. This was the point in the trip when we finally caved and handed over tablets and phones, because enjoying the tasting in peace felt like a privilege we deserved. The wine was wonderful, the olive oil was the star, and I bought two bottles to bring home. Thankfully I confirmed I can also order it here when we run out.

Vlad the Vampire insisted we stop at a castle on the way home. I wish we had not. It was a tourist trap, hot and dusty, and the last place we wanted to be. Skip that one.

We went straight into town for dinner at Bistrot Les Pieds dans l’Eau. It is casual, cool, and everything is served in big portions, family style. Order the Asian beef salad, roast chicken with gravy and potatoes, and a croque monsieur. And my crisp cold beer was the cherry on top.

Me in Marlow & Mae Sylvie set & the boys in Kopi Kidz lemon bloomers & Coop Kids sandbox shorts & Soludos espadrilles

Thursday: Pascale Pottery & Gourdes

When planning our trip and staying up way too late imagining what it would look like, this was the day I pictured. There were no breaks on breakfast at the hotel, it was never worth missing, but we did make a stop at a boulangerie on the outskirts of town. Our favorite waiter, Kenny, told us it was his go to. I had been feeling this way for a while, but that morning cemented my belief that pain suisse is better than pain au chocolat.

We then headed to Pascale Mestre, and I had an out of body reaction to her pottery (while Jarrett had one in the parking lot with the kids). My indecisiveness was at an all time high. Every single piece is its own work of art, and I would have been happy with any of them. We circled the store for what felt like a century before finally selecting our souvenirs. One day my whole kitchen will be her pieces. One day.

A race to all the DÔEN lace

Next was Airelles Gordes, La Bastide, an insanely gorgeous hotel nestled into the cliffside. I could have checked in right then and there. The service is wonderful, the same group as Chateau d’Estoublon, and they even served my Coca Cola in a carafe. We had drinks and then moved over to one of their restaurants, Clover Gordes. The table setting was its own vantage point, and the view into the valley was serene. More superb service from the staff, and a hotel that actually lived up to the idea of kid friendly. They had custom crayons for the kids to design postcards, which we addressed and they mailed for us. The food was phenomenal, make sure you order the egg in ashes, squid carbonara, tomato salad, lobster ravioli, and pesto pasta. Sawyer needed a little stroll, so I took him exploring around the property. The pool was pristine, and they even have a kids club. Add this to the booking bucket list. We did not have time to explore Gordes or Lourmarin, but they are high on our list for next time.

On a sun terrace in a Janessa Leoné packable sun hat & the boys in La Coqueta stripes

Dinner was back in Saint Remy at Mesiba, an Israeli restaurant filled with family recipes. It was one of the better meals of the trip. I could have had ten of the garden gin cocktails, and the chicken cutlet was so good it nearly caused fork fights at the table. Go here.

Says it all in Sézane blouse & skirt

Friday: Château La Coste & Marseille

The day we had feared — our final day. We spent the morning packing and then gave the pool staff one last hour of our kids’ shouts to remember us by. We saved Chateau La Coste for our last day since it was on the way to Marseille. Some might argue it was too hot to be eating grilled meats assado style for lunch, but if you have a chance to eat at a Francis Mallmann restaurant, you take it. The empanadas, T bone steak, and suckling pig made the meat sweats worth it. We had hoped to walk the grounds and take in all of the art, but that would have guaranteed heat strokes. Instead, we had ice cream, said goodbye to our besties, and continued on to Marseille.

Lazy morning lounge in an Anine Bing tee & Ivy City dress for our farewell photo

Our flight was at six the next morning, so we made the logical decision to stay at the Hilton Garden Inn next to the airport. Honestly, it was a great move. They had a big pool, we UberEats’ed McDonald’s (a tradition when we are in Europe), and went to sleep early. At four in the morning, a basket of fresh croissants was waiting for us at check out, a perfect send off and the sweetest/savory ending to our Provence trip.

DÔEN short dresses do it all, but Daily Drills sweatshirt & Aerie joggers are the comfiest combo for travel

Tip: Frankfurt airport has a marvelous matcha, just thought it should be known

THANK YOU for reading!! I hope this helps you plan Provence and maybe even convinces you to take me with you ;)

Chat very soon!! Big smooches, Ali

His first day arrived. I put him in an obnoxiously adorable bubble and assumed it would go just like my older son’s first day, easy. Well, I was wrong. He screamed, I screamed, my mom screamed. I left him feeling like I had abandoned him. I called my husband and my best friend, hyperventilating. I was literally losing my mind. He looked like a lost little runt in a sea of senior piglets.

But he couldn’t be cuter in his Bradford Bubble in his Sage Safari Chair

Let’s rewind. I sent Wilder (my now four and a half year old) to the same school when he was only six months old. Drop off was a breeze. I was full on Bringing Up Bébé mindset. Maybe I shed a tear or two, but he sure didn’t, he basically said, “Peace out, lady,” and never looked back. Was I insane to think it would go the same way with Sawyer?

Back to present day: I was impatiently waiting for noon to pick Sawyer up when the sweet director called me to let me know he had cried for an hour straight. I said, “Guess what, me too!” I sent frantic texts, my mom and I went back and forth about what to do, and I prayed for a sign from God… and from my Instagram broadcast channel.

When I picked him up and said, “See you tomorrow,” I knew I was lying because if there’s one thing I hate, it’s confrontation. So of course I sent an email at midnight, knowing an immediate response was unlikely. I told them he’s just not ready and neither am I. Their response? “We’re praying for you. Let’s reevaluate in the new year.” Educators are angels for a reason.

This was my first major aha moment as a mom of two. I’m not the same mom to Wilder as I am to Sawyer. And they are two very individual children. And that’s okay! We go through so many phases in life; of course we’ll move through evolving phases as parents too. No wonder my siblings and I are the same yet so distinct, we all had our own version of my mom and dad. Maybe this second trip around the baby sun, I’m less naïve. I now know that “we have five years until kindergarten” really means “we have five days.”

When I had Wilder, I was working a 9 to 5, so keeping him home with me wasn’t an option. Now it is, and my gut says: keep this baby in my pocket as long as possible.

So, this Substack will be filled with nap notes for now. I still don’t have a formal plan for it, but I created it two years ago (will the real procrastinator please stand up?), so it’s time to push publish.

It will be a little bit of everything, mom moments from the mundane to the magical, food feels and fashion finds, travel talk, lessons learned, people I want to parade, and things that make me smile.

If we’ve met on Instagram, bless you! If not, hi!! I’m Ali, or Alexandra, or most often, Al. It’s so nice to see you. Here’s a little bit about me:

• I’m newly 35 (the newly is important) and live in West Palm Beach with my husband, our two boys (Wilder four and a half and Sawyer one), and our mini dapple dachshund, Her Royal Highness Byrdie. My mom Laing and grandmother Nan live nearby, and they are my queens.

My sunset mini shift

• I’m obsessed with my family. Someone once told us we were codependent on each other, it was meant as an insult but we took it as the greatest compliment ever.

• I’m the oldest of four: my brother Cole, my sister , and my sister Peanut (her real name is Rebecca, but I’ve only ever called her Peanut). I know they’re the greatest gift I’ve ever been given, along with my rugrats of course.

• I grew up in the dirty Jerz (jk, it was a beautiful childhood, literally and figuratively), then went south to Southern Methodist University in Dallas. My three younger siblings all followed, and I’m pretty sure my dad’s still mad there wasn’t a family discount.

• I met my husband (now zaddy) in the most romantic way possible: at a FIJI frat party my freshman year. We got married in Florence when I was 27, so I’ll forever consider myself a child bride.

• I majored in journalism because I love to write, but mostly because I was told it was the easiest major ;)

• I used to be a competitive figure skater, both solo and synchronized. I was far from Olympic bound, but it gave me some of my favorite memories with my dad.

• I’m a small circle girl and possibly the worst phone communicator ever.

• I’ve had so many jobs: smoothie maker, nanny for four under four (all girls, woah), executive assistant (twice), social media creator at Hilton, salesperson at Ann Mashburn, and a mystery role at a tech startup that left me with more trauma than a title.

• I’m obsessive with food, it’s my comfort zone and my favorite way to experience the world. My best friend and I had a food Instagram after college called Sauce Queens, and I’ll never let anyone forget it.

• I’ve never had botox, it scares me almost as much as snakes.

• Someone once told me the best stage of life is when you’re growing your family — and boy (pun intended), they were right. I’m enchanted by it, exhausted, and couldn’t love it more.

I could keep going, but I’ve got to save something for later. This space still needs a little aka whole lot of design love and BTS magic, but if I don’t start now, I never will.

Oh, and the name of this: Wild because of Wilder, and Sauce because we call Sawyer Soy Sauce, but you’d probably figure that one out on your own with time.

Thank you for reading and talk soon!! Smooches!!

Subscribe now