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I have always been an over packer.

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The problem with over packers is it’s hard for us to admit it. If anyone made a comment about how many shoes or jeans I was bringing, I always had an excuse on why I absolutely needed every single item in my suitcase. There were numerous times my suitcase went over the 50b limit but I always just blamed it on certain items being heavy. It wasn’t until I was on my 2nd European vacation that I accepted this title and was pretty embarrassed by it. My husband and I were on a train going from Prague to Berlin. We ended up sitting with a business man from Germany and he took one look at the size of my suit case and goes… American? He then proceeded to talk to us about how he’s noticed a lot of American travelers over pack, and well, he’s right! That trip I didn’t use 50% of what I packed. Since then I have really tried to pack ‘Smart’ regardless of my final destination. Here are some of my top tips when packaging for vacation.

1. Use the proper luggage size – Don’t pack a 30″ suitcase if you’re going away for a short weekend or only for a few days. When you pull out a bag that is oversized, you will always find a way to fill it.

2. Roll, don’t fold – There’s always an exception to the rule but for the most part, rolling vs folding your clothes will give you more space when packing. I even go the extra mile and will use large ziplock bags to compress the clothing which makes everything even more organized.

3. Make a list & stick to it – Make a list of everything you need down to your toothbrush, check it twice. Sticking to the list will make sure you don’t bring additional items as well as making sure that you aren’t forgetting anything important.

4. Pack clothing that is versatile – This is a big one! You don’t need 5 pairs of jeans, 2 sneakers, 3 heels and an endless amount of leggings. Pack clothing that can go from day to night easily and can be reused more than once. Pack only the essentials when it comes to footwear. Try to stick to neutral colors and think about comfort.

5. Leave behind basic toiletries  – Unless you’re traveling to space, your final destination will more than likely have a place that you can purchase all your toiletries and all those other items that not only take up room but add extra weight. Also, your hotel may provide many of these things, including a blow dryer and iron! If you must pack it – think travel sized instead of full-sized.

6. Make use of those extra spaces – Filling your shoes can free up some extra space. It’s the perfect spot for your rolled underwear, socks and even chargers.

Do you have any additional tips that help you pack smart? Leave a comment letting me know what they are!

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As a First Time Mom you are constantly being told from other people what works and what doesn’t. Now that my son is 5 months I can honestly say it varies for each baby. What one persons child loves another one can hate. These products I have listed are items I personally feel will work for all Moms! I also want to note that this isn’t a sponsored post, these are all items I own and use on a daily basis! These items have made not only my day but my son’s day go a lot smoother.
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1.DockATot – If there is 1 item I had to chose as my absolute MUST HAVE item for any parent, this would be it! This product is a game changer. My son at 2 months old was a terrible sleeper. We were up literally every 2 hours during the night and just figured this would be life for a few more months so we just got used to it. When I received the DockATot I didn’t expect much except a comfy new spot for my son but I was wrong, it is so much more. The first night he slept in it, he slept for 5 hours before waking up for a feeding and it has only gotten better. He is now 5 months and uses his DockATot everyday – not only for bedtime but also for naps, tummy time and just hanging out during the day. We just got back from the Caribbean and it was super easy to carry on the plane with us and it doubled as the perfect spot for him on the beach and pool. It comes in 2 sizes, Deluxe ($165) & Grand ($360) – they are worth every penny and grow with your baby. For $10 off your order at www.DockATot.com, use the promo code: 10OFF
2.Fisher-Price Whale Rub / $27 – There are so many tubs for babies out there that you will literally go crazy looking through all the brands and the features. I love this tub because it’s a no frill basic tub. You can use it in your own bathtub or in the kitchen sink and it grows with your child from infant to toddler. It includes a baby stopper and soft foam back which prevents your infant from sliding into the water.
3.Graco Soothing System Glider  / $240 – Graco’s Soothing System Glider has four modes, including a gliding swing, gliding bassinet, portable bouncer and portable bassinet. I mainly only use the gliding systems but have used the portable bouncer a handful of times. This is the only thing my son will nap in. The gliding bassinet was amazing when we first brought my son home from the hospital and now at 5 months he loves the gliding swing.
4.Happy Wrap / $48 – I’m all about baby wearing! Before giving birth I wasn’t really sure if it would be my thing but fast forward to having a fussy newborn who won’t let you put him down and you will try anything. I absolutely love Happy Wrap. Designed for today’s active parent, the Happy Wrap is stylish, comfortable, and fully adjustable leaving you free to get things done while enjoying the closeness of your baby. It supports a baby up to 25lbs and is lightweight and breathable.
5.Babyganics Essentials Gift Set / $28 – I think lotions and bath care is something First Time parents really freak out about. Browsing through labels and trying to break down every ingredient can be not only time consuming but aggravating. Babyganics has really figured it out. All products are made with plant-based, baby-safe ingredients so your baby can go forth and grow safely. Some of my favorite products are the Alcohol-free Foaming Hand Sanitizer, Moisturizing Daily Lotion and the 50+ SPF Sunscreen.
6.The First Years Quick Serve Bottle Warmer / $16 – This is the BEST bottle warmer in my opinion. Super affordable and it works like a charm. I didn’t think I would need a bottle warmer in the beginning but when you have a baby waking up every 2 hours in the middle of the night, you don’t have time waiting for a bottle sitting in water to warm up. This only takes 3 minutes and never over heats the milk.
7.Philips Avent Green Soothie / $4 – I was 100% that pregnant lady saying that her child would’t use a pacifier. When you bring your baby home and he won’t stop crying – you will literally try any and everything! This was the only pacifier that my son would use and he still loves these. Make sure to stock up, for some reason they just end up lost!
8.Munchkin Arms & Hammer Diaper Bags / $4 – My husband and I did’t want a diaper pail/genie. It just isn’t our thing. These bags are inexpensive and really great! We keep them next to the diapers in the nursery for when our son goes #2 as well as in the diaper bag.
9.Nuby Teethers / $2.99+ – At only 2 1/2 months my son was pre teething. This mean tons of drool and him trying to munch on everything in site. The Nuby teethers are my favorite because theres a variety of types and he loves them. My favorite feature is the massaging bristles which really help makes his gums feel better.
10.Dr. Brown Standard Bottles / $10+ – I heard from tons of other moms while pregnant that babies only like certain bottles and that I should get a few different types to try them out. I also heard how Dr. Brown bottles had so many parts which made me decide not to get them. Well, I guess I was lucky – my son would literally drink from any bottle. Then at 2 months the gas started. He was super fussy and we just could’t figure out what to do. My pediatrician suggesting switching to Dr. Brown bottles and at that time I was willing to try anything to help him. These bottles are heaven sent. They help with digestion, reduce colic and spitting up and preserve bottle nutrients. They even came out with a really great options bottle. Oh… and I have zero complaints about cleaning them. They are the best bottle on the market.
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While I do have a few other products that I really like these 10 are the ones I constantly use. I hope this list really can help some of you when creating your registry or even trying to purchase something for a shower. If you have any questions on any of the items above – just send me a message! xo
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gwen

I had the opportunity to attend the Urban Decay + Gwen Stefani Launch Party last week. We got to mix, mingle, sip on cocktails and best of all – check out the whole entire collection! The line includes a Blush Palette, Eyeshadow Palette, Brow Box, 8 lipsticks and 6 glide on lip pencils.

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The packaging is stunning but the real prize is once you open each item up. The colors & shades are vibrant and pigmented. The Eyeshadow Palette is soft and bendable. It’s filled with great neutrals as well as bold pops of color. The Blush Palette has shades ranging from matte bronze to a gorgeous shade of pink – all of which have buildable coverage.

The lipsticks are very ‘Gwen’, especially all of the reds. The formula of both the lipsticks and lip pencils are fabulous. They go on super smooth and last, which is always a plus! I received three shades and have swatched them so you can see how they look on my skin tone.

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[L to R – Ex-Girlfriend, Phone Call & Plaid]

Overall this collection is a MUST. It’s definitely one of my favorite Urban Decay palettes and you can create so many looks with it. It goes on sale TODAY at the Urban Decay website!

Go check it out!

What are your favorite items and shades from this collection?? If you are interested in seeing swatches of the eyeshadow palette or blush palette – let me know! xo

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If you follow my instagram (@pearls_and_paris), then you know I’m all about accessories! They can make or break an outfit. Currently trending are Arm Cuffs! They are very chic and add tons of detail to whatever you are wearing. Here’s a look at some of this seasons hottest statement cuffs.

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To view more items from these fabulous designers, click on their link below.

1. Charlene K

2. Ayana Designs

3. Charmed Circle

4. Margaret Elizabeth

5. Marcia  Moran