I went back to Cali, Cali… It was my first time back in around 7 years. I honestly am such an East Coast girl. I live for NYC. I think you’re either ONE or the OTHER – anyone else think that? I was in the LA area for a total of 5 days and I had a great time attending the Girl Boss Rally, I stayed at the Sofitel in Beverly Hills and also got to see my friend Nina who I met while living in Miami!

Ps, how cute is this luggage? It’s from Gabbiano Luggage!

Let”s dive into my trip! – I landed and got to the hotel around 7pm and was exhausted from traveling from NYC directly to LA. I order room service that night and passed out right after. I woke up around 6:30 am with a view of the Hollywood Hills and ordered room service for breakfast before I headed off to the Girls Boss Rally!

The breakfast was literally gone in less than 5 mins, It was beyond delicious and the hash browns and eggs were perfectly cooked. I’m actually craving this while typing.

I headed to the girl boss rally which was what I flew out for! I’ve been a huge fan of Sophia Amoruso for years. Not only is she my role model, she was the reason I was so inspired to quit my job and follow my dreams. If you haven’t picked up her “Girl Boss” book, you need to. I’ve read it twice and I will probably read it again every few months. It’s a great refresher on things you might already know but kinda put on the shelf.

The Rally was filled with so many inspiring women from business owners and entrepreneurs – huge walls filled with quotes that just excited you while walking by. I had to stop and take a photo in front of this one — START YOUR OWN SHIT. I am proud to say, I started my own. Listening to these incredible women and their stories made me cry, laugh, and feel so inspired. To be honest — it was the best trip I’ve ever taken, the best convention I’ve ever been to. They have them yearly in NYC and LA. I will 100% be attending the next NY one — I’m poaching the website already haha.

I was so nervous to introduce myself, but honestly one of my good friends told me earlier in that week that I basically need to cut the shit and do it. Never be shy or intimidated by anyone. I was so glad I spoke with her for a few minutes and got a photo. I walked away feeling so glad I was able to share with her how much of an impact she’s had in my life. I might of cried when I walked away as well, haha. BUT happy tears — for anyone reading this and wondering if they should follow their dreams or do something they are shy to do….DO IT.

After the GIRL BOSS RALLY I jumped in a Lyft and headed over to see Nina! Nina was one of my best friends in Miami and GOD only know how much I miss her. I left Miami and moved to Northern Virginia and she moved from Miami to LA. She’s a full time makeup artist and she’s KILLING it, here is here Instagram account: @NinasMakeup

We did a makeup youtube video together, headed to lunch and played catch up! It was amazing to see her again! Nina – I love you girl!

I also had the chance to stop by Rodeo Drive, meet my fellow blogger friend Missy (known as @missyonmadison) which I was super excited to finally meet her in person!

We did a little bit of a photoshoot, we had a late lunch at 208 Rodeo Resturant and enjoyed the view. If you are local to that area I highly recommend the surf and turf! We both ate it so fast…DELICIOUS!! I would die to have this right now.

I had a lot of early nights in LA. Can’t lie, theres nothing better than relaxing in bed early while you’re on a vacation. At least at this point in my life I’m totally ok with it. So that being said I went home and crashed after this. haha.

The next few days was filled with a few meetings and photoshoots. I really didn’t do that much while in LA because I wanted and needed to relax. I spent more time with Nina and met a few other blogger friends whom I’ve adored for years but never got to meet. I met up with Cassydy and Candice!

Missy and I ended up meeting again for dinner together at Cattle & Claw — it’s located inside my hotel; Sofitel. We were on a lobster roll trend so we stuck with it! haha. Their drinks, atmosphere and food was incredible. (Open on in D.C. please!)

Overall, I loved my trip. I’m still an East Coast Girl but it was a whole different feel than I get when I go to NYC. I enjoyed my stay at Sofitel (the beds are so comfortable, also the bathroom is spacious which is a must!) I had a blast seeing my new and old friends and I ate some killer food. I hope they next time you’re in LA or looking for a new place to eat or stay you reference this post!

xx, Tonya Michelle