Enchant Christmas in DC – a fun date night!

Christmas DC Holiday

When I was googling “Things to do this winter in DC” Enchant Christmas came up and I was in awe! If you’re local to the area or not far away to take a nice drive, you should! Carl and I attended last night and so did our friends Jarrett and Victoria. Thank you to The Brand Guild for the invite!

Everything from a 90,000 sq foot light maze to the Christmas market – there is a little something for everyone. Want hot chocolate or spiked? They got it! I would bundle up, it’s located outside in the MIDDLE of Nationals park, amazing right?

And yes, that’s a 100 foot tree! While going around the maze “The Great Search” you can locate and find Santa’s reindeer which have been placed throughout! They even hand you a little scratch card to mark each one off. The kids running around, loved it. It was so nice to see how much they loved it. Can’t wait for Xavier to get older and we can enjoy these things as a family.

We were invited to their VIP event from 6pm-8pm! Thankful for the little bits, gift swag and drinks! It was a nice treat to get warm and enjoy some of their food. They have a signature drink that is in a light bulb, it’s adorable – sadly I don’t have a photo but believe me, it’s super cute! You can also take the souvenir cup with you. Ps, the smores were AMAZING.

We walked around the Christmas Market and I found a couple items that I couldn’t pass up! How cute is this reindeer? I also picked up TWO of these Potpourri garlands, they smell like cinnamon, aka HEAVEN. Homemade too! Love finding good small business items. My mom will love the one I got her.

I hope you find time and head out to Enchanted DC – it’s a great date night idea or family time event! Also, bring ice skates if you have them, if not you can rent them there. The ice rink is gorgeous and a must!

xx, Tonya Michelle

Continue Reading

Explore your own city in 24 hours! DC Style.

DC Travel Uncategorized


Right before Christmas, Caroline and I decided we were both in need of a ‘staycation!’ We decided to head up 495 just about 45 minutes away from my home in Northern Virginia to stay at the Pod Hotel located right in the heart of Chinatown.

We wanted to try something different than the “usual” hotel, and after a few recommendations decided on the Pod Hotel located in Chinatown! The attractive price point of $100 a night for a queen size bedroom made this the most affordable yet luxurious option in the entire city.

The small sized rooms are perfect for those who want to explore the city and are just coming back to get ready for the day and to sleep! Caroline and I each got our own rooms for some extra space and would highly recommend doing so unless you’re traveling with a significant other. 

After settling into our rooms, we headed downstairs to the Crimson Diner where we had some light bites before heading out to eat. Perfect for some photo ops, the décor was amazing as was the food! Caroline and I got some chips and pimento cheese dip, onion rings and I got a breakfast meal as it’s served all day long! I also used my 2-for-1 drink tickets provided upon check-in for us to get a cocktail with our appetizers before heading out for the night.

Following our run around the city, we headed downstairs to Pod’s Whiskey Bar which was not only huge but totally packed with city-goers. It seemed like the go-to spot for many locals and provided a cozy yet fun atmosphere, bumping to Spotify’s Hip-Hop 2000’s playlist which is now Caroline and I’s new work playlist!

The next morning, we used our free coffee and donut “tokens” to each get a caffeinated drink and a donut before heading home.

We had a great time at an awesome hotel and would highly recommend staying here! If you’re local or visiting to New York (Brooklyn, Manhattan) or Washington, D.C. any time soon and are looking to affordable options, definitely check out the Pod Hotel on your next stay!

Continue Reading

How to Style a Jumpsuit for the Holiday Season with Esmara at Lidl by Heidi Klum

DC Esmara by Heidi Klum Fashion Fashion Under $20 Lidl Style Tips

Tomorrow is December 1st which is MIND blowing. Time is flying by and that means less time for you to figure out what to wear to all the Holiday parties and events coming up. Luckily, I’m here to share yet again another favorite outfit of mine with you. Below I have styled one of the newest jumpsuits from Esmara by Heidi Klum!! This line will hit in Lidl stores on December 7th! One week from today.

I took a plain black jumpsuit, added the faux fur stole that is also from Esmara tied it around my shoulder to totally change the look and feel of this jumpsuit. The faux fur also comes in blush. It’s only $9.99!!

I’m all about finding staple pieces for my closet that I can easily add some flashy accessories to and be ready to go! A great thing about this jumpsuit is you can easily put on a denim jacket and rock a pair of sneakers too. Each piece of the new Let’s Celebrate collection can be worn in so many different way.

Can you believe this jumpsuit is only $14.99?!?

You can get the jumpsuit and fax fur stole for under $30!!

The second jumpsuit it sleeveless and I will be sharing that and more looks soon on the blog and on my social media. Keep your eye out on my channels and if you’re near a Lidl make sure you mark your calendar for this launch. Her items sell out so quickly! You can do an entire outfit for under $50. You can’t do that very much these days.

If you have any questions on sizing or outfit pairings, feel free to send me a message. I would be glad to help you put together a Holiday outfit. If you’re local to Manasas, VA I will be at that Lidl location December 7th when the doors open for the big reveal. Come meet me and get your Holiday outfit needs done!

xx, Tonya Michelle

 

This post is sponsored by Lidl, all thoughts, opinions and my love for fashion is my own.

 

Continue Reading

Let’s Celebrate the Holidays in Affordable Glam! Esmara By Heidi Klum At Lidl

DC Esmara by Heidi Klum Fall Fashion Holiday Gift Guide Lidl OOTD Sale Style

*This post was sponsored by Lidl – All opinions and outfit ideas are my own 😉 

Heidi Klum is back with Esmara for Lidl and this second collection made my heart skip a beat. You add sequins, velvet, sparkles and faux fur to an affordable price tag and I’m going IN!!! I can’t get enough of this collection. I wanted to wear everything and share everything in one day with you guys. There are so many amazing pieces that I will she showcasing throughout the next month, so keep your eyes on my blog and social media channels. This collection hits Lidl locations on December 7th and will sell out quick!! You can view her first collection by clicking HERE, also search to see if their is a Lidl near you by clicking HERE.

I’m a sucker for a staple piece sweater that you can wear with jeans when out and about during the day, sweats when you’re at home relaxing or running errands and even adding a skirt for a night out on the town. Also a huge fan of when the sweater is only $14.99!! Yep, that’s right. Above you can just image how soft that sweater is, trust me– you need one!

Comes in sizes 2-12. I’m wearing a size 4.

Another favorite piece of this collection is the jumpsuit! There are two different options that she is releasing, the other one I will showcase in a later post. It’s also under $20! It’s $14.99!!!

Comes in “One Size” – I’m usually a size 4 and this fit me.

I added a fun faux fur stole as an accessory to this outfit! It comes in light pink and black. You can adjust how tight or loose you’d like it to be, you’ll see below a photo of how it ties.

I’m wearing a size 4 and is only $9.99!!

A great item to add to a plain t-shirt, dress or jumpsuit like I did. Sky is the limit for how you can use this accessory in your daily outfits.

Heidi designed some GORGEOUS camisoles! Comes in 4 different colors and even 1 velvet.

Since the weather here in Virginia has been getting chilly, I added a plain white t-shirt under mine. Add some fun accessories and you’re ready to go. I went with a black chocker to vibe into my 90’s look. Anyone else love how fashion trends are coming back? I know I do!!

Sizes 2-12. I’m wearing a size 4. Only $5.99!

She designed another 3 pairs of jeans/pants for this collection and yet again — perfect fit! I’m wearing a size 6 in these. They come in Black, black faux jean/leather look and dark denim. For only $9.99 you could get multiple pairs — I know I went back to the store and bought 2 more pairs for later. When I love something, I buy it in every color and multiples — no shame here!!

This clutch is from her first collection and is one of my favorites, I use it all the time!

I love how easy it is to take her pieces and mix -n- match them. You have total control on taking any staple piece from her collections and making it into your own fashion statement or a day to day piece for work or event! I hope you enjoyed some of my styling ideas for her new collection. I also hope to see you at the Manassas Lidl location on Dec. 7th! I will be there helping you style the new collection.

Learn more HERE about Lidl and how they give you high quality for a low price. (You already know I love that!)

xx, Tonya Michelle

 

First two outfits were shot by: Leandra Brown

Follow her and her work: Facebook – Instagram – Website (she does DMV area, NYC & more)

Continue Reading

Carl and I Took A Gaylord National Harbor Resort Staycation!

DC Food Hotel Tips Travel

Carl and I had the BEST staycation last weekend at the Gaylord National Harbor Resort. Sometimes you just need to pack a bag and take a trip. Even if it’s only 45 mins away! Who else agrees?! *Raises Hand*

I first want to share this amazing view to you. Inside the Gaylord National is incredible. You have a “mini town” like feel inside with this view — I wanted to pack another bag and stay longer. Our room had a balcony with a chair, a great place to sit in the morning and watch the sunrise.

Below you can see the “mini town” feel I was speaking of. They have restaurants and a coffee bar you can enjoy without having to leave! Harbor Marketplace, The Cocoa Bean, Belvedere Lobby Bar, Pose Rooftop Lounge, National Pastime Sports Bar And Grill (We stopped here for apps before exploring the National Harbor), Pienza Marketplace (we had breakfast here), Old Hickory Steakhouse.

Our room was cozy and had such a nice home feel to it. I loved how spacious the room was, Carl is 6’4″ — he needs it, haha. We walked in and we had to force ourselves to go explore. The tv’s have Netflix — Don’t threaten us with a good time. We almost stayed in at 4pm and turned it on…but we didn’t! We went exploring to the Capital Wheel!

All dressed up for our night out! (He’s acting like he doesn’t like his photo taken…haha)

We walked hand and hand (cute as ever –right?) down to the Capital Wheel! It’s the first time for both of us to ride the wheel and I was beyond nervous. I’m afraid of heights and of course he was fine. It took me 2-3 times around at first to relax. After that, I was in awe of the view. We lucked out and perfectly planned our ride. Sunset!!!

 

It was like going on a first date all over again. Sometimes you have to act that way. Do spontaneous trips, stay-cations or date nights! We really had a great time on the Capital Wheel. Add it to your list of things to do when you’re in the area or if you’re local!

That smile is a smile of conquering my fear of heights!! I’m so glad I gave it shot, the view is incredible and I’m proud of doing something I normally would be too afraid to do.

After the Capital Wheel adventure we walked on over to do a little shopping. Stopped at the PEEPS store as well as Charming Charlie’s to kill some time before dinner at The Walrus – Oyster & Ale House. Dinner at The Walrus was mouth watering! Below I’ll share our dinner with you, but beware — You might be hungry after this portion of my post.

(Photo above is a great shot during the day! I got it from their website, wanted to give a better idea of how open and the atmosphere can be killer during lunch, happy hour or evening!)

We decided to start with some appetizers! Crispy Calamari for Carl, I had Shrimp and Hushpuppies! I was lucky to get any good photos during this meal. We both couldn’t wait to dive into the food. Everything looked AMAZING, it tasted even fresher than we thought it would. The Shrimp was my favorite, I usually love peel -n- eat shrimp when it’s boiled and hot. I was wondering how I would like this since it’s on ice. They spice the shrimp, go over it quickly with a flame to sear the top and then ice it. Honestly — It was better than anything I’ve had! Again, so glad to try something new.

We then ordered our main courses, let’s just say I love food and my eyes are always bigger than my stomach. ha-ha. I ordered the Bell & Evans Half Roasted Chicken, it takes 25 mins to slow cook but we had our wine refilled and didn’t mind waiting for the meal! It’s a herb citrus marinade, sautéed curly spinach, roasted fingerlings, red wine butter chicken gravy. YUMMMMYYYY!!

Carl got the Land & Sea! Half pound Shenandoah Valley ribeye, Maryland jumbo lump crab cake with butter sauce, grilled broccolini, mashed potatoes. He didn’t talk much when it came out so you know he was happy. He ate all of his meal and then half of mine! ha-ha.

I was SO FULL at this moment but if you’re anything like me, there is ALWAYS room for desert – right? I decided to go for the homemade apple pie and ice cream. It’s made to order. You guys, it was incredible, I mean …. Just look at it:

I will NOT be showing an after photo – we went to town! haha. I’m so thankful to The Walrus for hosting us. We had an incredible dinner and we truly enjoyed the atmosphere. We’ve been talking about when we will go next! We heard on Mondays they have the best fried chicken anyone could ever ask for. We’re gonna have to put that to the test here soon!

We headed back to the room after dinner to find a bottle of wine, cheese and crackers waiting for us. We decided to stay in, enjoy those and watch Stranger Things 2!!! (We binge watched and finished the next day haha) The next morning we woke up and had walked downstairs to enjoy the breakfast buffet at Pienza.

 

 

 

 

We explored the Relâche Spa & Salon after breakfast!

It was time to get pampered before heading back home.

I got a 80 minute facial and Carl got a 60 min massage. We both needed some extra love after our crazy schedules lately with work. Make sure to always take time for yourself and also as a couple.

They have a gorgeous couple massage room — we will def be having this next time. Look at that view!!

Also you can enjoy their separate Men’s & Women’s Lounges with tea, water and light snacks. A steam room and pool which you can see below. We def should of planned for more time there. We will be making sure that happens next time.

Their spa offers different lines of products, you can even purchase! Which is nice to be able to try certain products during your facial first and then decide which you love to bring home.

The service list they offer is impressive; Body scrub, Body wrap, Couple’s Massage, Eye Treatments, Facials, Foot bath, Hair & scalp treatments, Kids Services, Lip Treatments, Makeup Services, Manicures/pedicures, Massage lessons, Massages, Men’s services, Paraffin hand treatments and Waxing! You can truly go there and get all your needs handled.

We left our stay at the Gaylord National Harbor feeling refreshed and closer. Whether you’re in town for a conference, vacation or even live here I highly recommend you spend your time there. They treat you like royalty and all the options they have between restaurants and things to do in the area is incredible. It’s convenient and accessible! Always remember, take time for yourself and enjoy it.

Thank you to the Gaylord National Harbor for hosting us during our stay, you made it such a wonderful experience for the both of us. Thank you also to The Walrus – our dinner was delicious. You both forever has a customer in us and we can’t wait to come back.

Follow along on social media:

Gaylord National: Facebook – Instagram – Twitter – Website

National Harbor: Facebook– Instagram – Twitter – Website

The Walrus Oyster & Ale: Facebook – Instagram – Twitter – Website 

xx, Tonya Michelle

Continue Reading