Archive | FASHION AND BEAUTY

Living in the mountains means long days outside, soaking in every ounce of sunshine and fresh air. One minute I’m hiking or paddleboarding on the lake, and the next I’m hopping into the Jeep with Jayson, top down, music up, and mountain roads stretching out ahead of us. It’s perfect, except for what all that wind, sun, and lake water does to my hair.

By the time we pull back into the driveway or pull up to our favorite restaurant, my waves are usually in full tangles and my ends feel dry and frazzled. That all changed this summer when I started using Mint Tools. This stylist-founded brand creates salon-quality hot tools that actually protect your hair instead of frying it, and their brushes? Absolute game changers.

The Kaze Brush: The Best Brush I’ve Ever Used

I have to start with the Kaze Brush because it is hands-down the best brush I’ve ever used in my life. Seriously. My old brushes always seemed to either tug on tangles or just glide over the top without actually smoothing things out. The Kaze Brush detangles effortlessly without pulling, breaking, or leaving my scalp feeling sore.

After a windy Jeep ride or a day at the lake, I grab my Kaze Brush and watch tangles practically melt away. It works beautifully on wet or dry hair and leaves everything smooth and shiny instead of frizzy. If you only get one Mint product, make it this one.

S-Waver: Effortless Mountain Waves

The S-Waver is my go-to for creating loose, effortless waves that actually stay. It’s perfect for when I want my hair to look styled but still natural and carefree (which is most days out here). I use it like this:

• After a Jeep Ride: Quick detangle with the Kaze Brush, a little heat protectant, then a few passes with the S-Waver to smooth and shape windblown hair into soft, beachy waves.
• Pre-Adventure Styling: If I know we’re heading out on the paddleboards or doing a hike and Jeep loop, I’ll style with the S-Waver in the morning. It gives my hair body and texture that still looks great when it air-dries later after the lake.
• Next-Day Hair: The S-Waver refreshes bedhead or ponytail creases in minutes, way easier than starting from scratch.

Crimper Tool: Adding Texture and Volume Fast

The Mint Crimper Tool is such a fun surprise. I thought crimpers were just for wild ‘80s styles (been there, done that!), but this one gives modern, cool-girl texture that works for everything from date nights to concerts at the park. I love it for:

• Adding Volume Underneath: I take small sections underneath my top layers, give them a quick crimp, and then smooth the top layer back down. Boom, instant lift and fullness.
• Textured Ponytails or Braids: Quick crimps add grip and style so braids and ponies stay put all day, even on Jeep rides.
• Festival or Concert Hair: It’s perfect for adding bold texture that looks intentional and fun but still feels soft and touchable.

Travel-Friendly Hair Styling: Pack Mint for RV Trips or Weekend Getaways

Because Jayson and I love traveling in our RV (or heading out for long Jeep weekends), I keep my Mint tools travel-ready. Here’s how I pack for the road:

• Kaze Brush: It’s lightweight, durable, and works on wet or dry hair. I keep one in my travel bag so I’m never stuck trying to detangle post-lake hair with a tiny hotel comb again.
• S-Waver: It’s perfect for styling when you want a polished look without spending much time. I keep it in a heat-resistant pouch so I can use it and pack it quickly before we hit the road again.
• Crimper: It takes up almost no space but makes ponytails and braids look instantly styled, ideal for camping trips, where I want low-maintenance hair with a little personality.

Pro tip: I also pack a small power strip in the RV so I can plug in multiple tools at once and keep cords organized.

Quick Jeep-to-Dinner Hair Fix

For those days when we’re out exploring and decide on an impromptu dinner:

1. Detangle: Quick pass with the Kaze Brush to smooth windblown tangles.
2. Style Refresh: Use the S-Waver on a few face-framing sections to revive waves.
3. Volume Boost: Add a little crimp at the roots under the crown for lift.
4. Finish: A touch of hair oil or lightweight spray and you’re ready to go, effortless and polished in under 10 minutes.

Mountain Life, Minus the Hair Chaos

Summer in the mountains is wild and wonderful, but it doesn’t have to mean frizz, tangles, and bad hair days. With Mint’s professional-quality tools, especially the Kaze Brush, you can protect your hair, style quickly, and actually enjoy your day instead of fighting with it.

Check out Mint’s Kaze Brush, S-Waver, and Crimper Tool for salon-quality care that fits your real life, mountain views, Jeep rides, RV trips, and all.

Finding a pair of ballet flats that are both comfortable and chic is harder than it sounds—especially if you care about quality, craftsmanship, and longevity. But the moment I slipped on a pair from the Geneva Collection by M. Aviann, I knew I had found my new go-to shoes.

These aren’t just your average flats—they’re handcrafted with intention, built from premium materials, and made to last. They offer a timeless design with thoughtful details that make them feel elevated without trying too hard. Whether I’m running errands, traveling, heading to brunch, or slipping them on after a long day in heels, they always deliver on comfort and style.

✨ Handmade Craftsmanship You Can Feel

Each pair in the Geneva Collection is carefully handcrafted, and you can feel the difference the moment you put them on. The quality is obvious: from the buttery-soft materials to the durable soles, these shoes were made with comfort and longevity in mind.

👣 Supportive, cushioned insoles make them a dream for all-day wear
🌱 Sustainably made in small batches to ensure quality and reduce waste
🧵 Thoughtful stitching and attention to detail means they’ll hold up for years
👡 Flexible construction allows the shoes to mold to your feet while maintaining structure

No blisters. No pinching. Just buttery-soft flats that feel like a second skin—and look effortlessly polished with everything from jeans to dresses.

💫 Timeless Style That Goes With Everything

The Geneva flats strike that perfect balance between classic and current. They’re the kind of shoe you can wear season after season without ever feeling out of date.

✔️ Dress them up with a midi dress or trousers for the office
✔️ Pair them with jeans and a sweater for an elevated everyday look
✔️ Pack them for travel—they take up almost no space and go with every outfit
✔️ Keep them in your bag as a stylish, comfy backup to heels

They come in a range of gorgeous neutral tones, so whether you love warm camel, soft blush, or classic black, there’s a pair that’ll fit right into your wardrobe (and your lifestyle).

💼 Built to Last, Not Just Look Good

What really sets the Geneva Collection apart is the quality construction and wearability. These flats aren’t just pretty—they’re designed for real life.

💪 Durable soles that hold up to long walks and daily wear
🧽 Easy-to-clean materials that maintain their look over time
👜 Lightweight enough to toss in your tote or travel bag
🌎 Thoughtfully made to reduce waste and promote slow fashion

In a world of fast fashion, it’s refreshing to find shoes that are made with intention and integrity. These flats were built to last, which means fewer replacements, less waste, and more value over time.

👟 The Flats You’ll Reach for Every Day

I’ve tried a lot of ballet flats over the years, and most fall into one of two categories: cute but uncomfortable, or comfy but frumpy. The Geneva flats by M. Aviann are that rare gem that checks all the boxes.

They’re:
✅ Beautifully handcrafted
✅ Comfortable enough to wear all day
✅ Stylish and versatile
✅ Made to last for seasons (and years) to come

If you’re looking to upgrade your everyday shoes with a pair that’s both elegant and easy, this collection is worth every penny.

👉 Shop the full collection.

The M. Aviann Geneva Collection isn’t just about shoes—it’s about thoughtful fashion. These handcrafted ballet flats are a reminder that when you invest in quality, you’re not just getting something beautiful—you’re getting something that lasts.

So whether you’re stepping into the office, heading out for coffee, or packing light for your next trip, these are the flats you’ll keep reaching for—again and again.

💬 Have a favorite color or style from the collection? Let me know how you’re styling yours!

Every once in a while, you come across a product so simple, so beautifully made, and so good for your skin, you want to tell everyone you know about it. That’s exactly how I feel about the tallow-based skincare from Stone & Spear. Their products have officially earned a permanent spot in my bathroom, and honestly? My skin (and my senses) couldn’t be happier.

💧 Moisturizing Body Butter = Skin’s Best Friend
Let’s start with the Moisturizing Body Butter. If your skin is dry, sensitive, or just needs a little extra love—this is it. Rich, creamy, and deeply hydrating, it melts into the skin like butter (but better), leaving behind the softest, healthiest glow. I love applying it after a shower while my skin’s still slightly damp, it locks in moisture beautifully without ever feeling greasy. The ingredients are super minimal and clean (just how I like them), and a little goes a long way. It’s the kind of product that makes you want to slow down and take your time with your skincare.

💄 Tallow Lipstick with a Peppermint Kick
Next up: the Natural Tallow Lipstick, and let me just say, I’m obsessed with this one. It smells like fresh peppermint (hello, instant refresh), and it feels nourishing in a way most lip balms just don’t. No synthetic fragrances, no weird aftertaste, just smooth, soothing, pepperminty goodness. It’s the kind of balm you’ll want in every bag, coat pocket, and nightstand drawer.

🧼 The Dreamiest Hand & Body Soap
And finally, let’s talk about the Hand & Body Soap. I’ve used a lot of clean soaps over the years, and this one is a standout. It lathers beautifully, smells delicious, and doesn’t dry out my hands (which, let’s be honest, is rare these days). It’s made with the same care and tallow-based goodness as the rest of their line, and it’s become a daily ritual I actually look forward to.

🌿 Why I Love This Line
There’s something so comforting about products that are made with intention. Stone & Spear’s entire approach is rooted in simplicity, nourishment, and traditional ingredients that our skin truly understands. Tallow might not be trendy, but it’s time-tested, incredibly effective, and one of the most sustainable skincare ingredients around—no synthetics, no plastic packaging overload, no long list of chemicals. Just clean, honest skincare that works.

🛁 Self-Care That Feels Like a Return to Center
If you’re craving skincare that feels like home—simple, natural, and good for both your skin and the planet, Stone & Spear is 100% worth checking out. These are the kinds of products that make you slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the ritual of caring for your body. And that, in itself, is a little act of self-love.

Ever since we moved to the mountains full time, I’ve been spending more time out on the trails—breathing in the fresh mountain air, soaking up the sunshine, and reconnecting with nature. Hiking has become one of my favorite ways to reset and recharge. Jayson and I (and Olive!) do a 1.5 hour hike every morning! And recently, I discovered a new activewear combo that I had to share with you: Mondetta High Waist Active Leggings and their Fitted Active Seamless T-Shirts.

Funny story—Jayson had to make a Costco trip to return some greenhouses that weren’t cutting it, and he surprised me by picking up some new hiking clothes (he knows me well 💚), and I couldn’t believe how perfect they turned out to be. Not only are they ridiculously comfortable and flattering, but they’re also certified B Corp, FSC, and meet the Global Recycled Standard. Cue the heart eyes, right?! 😍🌎

Why I’m Obsessed with These Mondetta Leggings

Let’s talk about leggings first—because finding the right pair is no small feat. The Mondetta High Waist Active Leggings check all the boxes for me:
✅ Supportive yet breathable
✅ Sleek high-rise fit that stays in place
✅ Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
✅ Made with recycled materials (yes please!)

Whether I’m on a steep incline, doing a quick yoga flow, or just lounging post-hike on the back deck, these leggings are comfortable, functional, and cute enough to wear beyond the trail. I love the minimal design and smooth seams—no weird bunching or awkward tugging. Just the kind of all-day comfort every hiker dreams of. And I have been wearing them for my regular at-home workout too, and they are perfect!

Seamless, Sustainable, and Seriously Soft T-Shirts

Now, let’s talk about the Mondetta Fitted Active Seamless T-Shirts. I’m kind of picky when it comes to performance tees. I want something that fits well but needs to wick moisture—and this tee delivers.

✨ It’s soft and smooth with a barely-there feel.
✨ The seamless construction means no chafing (thank you!).
✨ It wicks away sweat on hot hikes and dries quickly after.
✨ It layers beautifully under a fleece or my Patagonia nano puff!

I love that I can wear it on the trail and to grab lunch after without feeling like I’m still in workout mode.

Sustainability that Walks the Walk

As someone who’s always looking for ways to live more sustainably, I was so impressed to learn that Mondetta is a Certified B Corporation—which means they meet high standards for social and environmental responsibility.

🌱 FSC-Certified Packaging – Responsibly sourced, recyclable packaging.
🌱 Global Recycled Standard Materials – Their fabrics are made with certified recycled fibers.
🌱 Ethical Manufacturing – Fair labor practices and environmentally conscious production.

I always feel better supporting brands that are working hard to make a real difference—and it’s even better when their clothes perform as well as these do!

The Verdict? I’ll Be Wearing These All Season Long

If you’re looking for sustainable activewear that’s trail-tested and eco-approved, I highly recommend checking out Mondetta’s active line. The high-waist leggings and seamless tees have quickly become my go-to outfit for everything from early morning hikes to weekend errands.

They’re proof that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort, performance, or style to be kind to the planet. 💚And I love that I can wear this outfit for one of my and Jayson’s day trips! We pick a new town on the map, and then do a hike, visit a few shops/antique stores and wrap up with dinner. I don’t have to worry about changing (I just layer a jacket over the top and I’m good to go!)

📍 PS: I’ve been hitting some amazing trails lately—let me know if you want my go-to hiking spots in the Western NC mountains!

Have you tried Mondetta activewear yet? Or do you have a favorite sustainable brand you love for hiking and outdoor adventures? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking to try something new! 🌿💬