20 Lessons from my 30th Year

I love a good self reflection. With my 31st birthday approaching next week, I wanted to share some reflections of lessons I really ‘practiced’ this past year. haha These are in no particular order and have to do with all areas of life.

1. Saying no does not make you a bad person. I’ve really exercised my ability to say no and honor my best interests.

2. Being one of the last of your friend group to get married is amazing. Having so many bridesmaids who have already planned weddings (or been in multiple) is a blessing and so helpful.

3. Being engaged is one of the most magical times of life. Prepare to giggle a lot.

4. Joining a challenge that seems really hard (i.e. the BIPOC author only reading challenge for a year), is a great sign that it’s something you need to try. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.

5. I am so grateful for my body’s ability to move. I cannot imagine my mental health story without the ability to use cycling and running as a means of therapy.

6. Talk less and listen more.

7. I feel my best when I get to bed early and read before falling asleep. Same goes for waking up early to spend time alone reading.

8. Planning a wedding is harder than it looks and can bring up a lot of past emotions you didn’t know you needed to work through. It’s also the most fun I’ve ever had planning the day I get to marry my best friend. (aka SO WORTH IT).

9. The more nieces and nephews I am blessed with, the better life gets. If my heart can grow this much from nieces and nephews, I can’t imagine what having children feels like.

10. You don’t have to physically give birth to be a mother. You can mother your friends, your family, others’ children.

11. I love wearing a mask at the grocery store so I can be sly and get and out quickly without seeing anyone I know.

12. I also love wearing a mask for moments when I’m doing makeup and don’t have to worry if people can smell my coffee breath.

13. Sourdough bread making isn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be.

14. Writing a cookbook is still hard, but we’re almost there!

15. Life is truly lived in the little moments. With each year I appreciate the tiny details more, as they are responsible for so much of life’s daily joy.

16. Being the bride after all of these years of working in the bridal industry, is a weird feeling. It’s ok if you don’t feel super bridal. Doesn’t mean you don’t deserve to be a bride, or won’t enjoy it. It just might take longer for you to have it sink in. Plus, it’s about the marriage, not just the wedding day!

17. Turning 30 was absolutely amazing. If you are nearing it, embrace it. It’s exponentially better than your 20’s haha (and my 20’s were awesome)!

18. While I never would have wished the pandemic on anyone, I am grateful that it confirmed what I already knew…I can spend every second with only Mikey and still miss him the minute he walks out that front door.

19. Setting a realistic wedding budget is CRUCIAL. I cannot imagine this process without my budget.

20. You do not have to work every second of every day, to have a successful small business. Burnout is real and resting is great. Also work life balance is something you are continually striving for, so don’t be so hard on yourself if it feels like you haven’t mastered it. Life and businesses have seasons.

See you on the other side when I’m 31!!!

Andrea

Skincare for Spring

Welcome back! We haven’t talked about skincare in a little while, so I figured this would be a great requested topic to start off May with! Today I’m sharing some tips to consider while adjusting to the new season. Obviously, this will depend on what the season change means for your specific location, so take that into account as well.

1. SPF:

   Did you really think I wasn’t going to start this post off talking about SPF? haha While it’s important to wear it all year round, yes even in the winter…I wanted to start by reminding you that it’s very important to wear an SPF that is separate from your moisturizers and makeup, during the warmer months. ALSO, say it with me….REAPPLICATION! Often times we can be really great at applying it at the start of the day, but reapplying is key to staying protected. My favorite SPF for awhile has been this one by Amavara.

2. Hyperpigmentation:

   If you dealt with some post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from recent maskne (don’t worry, so many of us did), it’s important that you protect yourself in the sun. Generally, it is pretty easy to fade post-acne hyperpigmentation with vitamin C, but it’s crucial that you don’t let the scars be exposed to sun. Layer on that SPF, wear a sun hat, and I guarantee you will see those scars fade quicker! The more sun they get, the darker (more melanin is produced for protection) and the longer they will take to fade.

3. Moisturizer:

   I live in Michigan and it’s no secret that our weather can be a little crazy and unpredictable during the spring. One day it can get up to 80 degrees, and then you can wake up with frost the next morning. For this reason, I think it’s really important to be able to have a couple moisturizers on hand, if this fluctuation affects your skin. You may find yourself being a little oilier as it warms up, and need a lighter moisturizer some days. You also may find your skin becoming more dehydrated as you spend a little more time outdoors, so it’s important to find a moisturizer that also replenishes the hydration of your skin. Regardless, learning how to read what your skin needs, is the best way to keep it balanced during this unpredictable season.

   I personally love using the Weleda skin food moisturizers throughout the year. I use the Skin Food Light during the warmer months, and the Skin Food Original during the colder months.

4. Chemical Exfoliating:

   You probably already know what a BIG fan of chemical exfoliating I am. However, here’s my reminder that if you are chemically exfoliating, even once, it’s vital that you wear your SPF and protect your skin. Recently exfoliated skin is more sensitive to the sun, so while you normally might think you can avoid a sunburn, you may be surprised how quickly it can happen. Obviously this depends on multiple factors since everyone’s skin is different, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

5. Masks:

   If you don’t currently have a good hydrating mask, the transition into warmer weather is a great time to grab one. My personal favorite the Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Mask because it’s great for dehydrated skin that needs to be soothed. Also, if you tend to be maskne prone, I recommend keeping a clay or charcoal purifying mask on hand to help clean out the pores. I personally love the Pixi Glow Mud Mask for this purpose. Also, don’t forget that multiple masks can be used as spot treatments all over the face if you have combination skin and need different products in different areas.

Those are my helpful reminders as we transition into a new season. Remember, your skin can change on a daily basis during season changes, so do your best to cater to what your skin needs every day. If you ever have questions, don’t hesitate to visit my Contact page and send me an email!

Have a wonderful spring,

Andrea

Disclosure: Some of the above links are Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. This does not affect the price of the product on your end. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty

Unsolicited Wedding Advice from a Married Financial Planner

I am so honored to welcome Stephanie A Trexler, CFP®, a previous Andrea Fontana Beauty bride and CEO and Owner of Golden Goose Wealth Planning to the blog! When I got engaged in February, I asked her to share her wealth of knowledge with those of us who are in the planning stages of our weddings! Be sure to check out her business when you are done reading and share this information with anyone you know who is newly engaged! Thank you Steph.

Everyone has an opinion when it comes to weddings and it has been said that weddings bring out the crazy in everyone! Here are a few things I wish I would have known before my big day!

∙       Do research before you set a budget- Do not put the cart before the horse! My husband and I picked a random number for a budget because we thought that is what the wedding SHOULD cost, turns out we were off by $10,000. We had not done our research and taken the time to figure out what the kind of wedding we wanted would realistically cost. It would have had a better idea of a realistic cost beforehand; it would have saved many disagreements in the future!

∙       Get organized- Get a physical wedding planner. My sister gave me a custom wedding planner for our engagement gift. It was super helpful having everything in one place. I carried it around with my in my purse and always had my checklists at my fingertips. You will also want to make a spreadsheet and save it in a place where you can easily share it with your fiancé. You will want to make sure you have the following tabs:

o   Guestlist

o   Addresses

o   Budget & Payment Due Dates

o   Day of schedule, 

o   Vendor contact information

∙       Go to the wedding expos- They might seem cheesy, but they have tons of great ideas and I made a lot of great contacts at the one I went to. This is also a great opportunity to start getting an idea of how much things cost. At the expo I attended, a caricature artist was setting up her business and she was offering a discount if I booked with her that day. This allowed us to add a nice touch to our wedding that was very affordable. 

∙       Think creatively where you register-You might think you really need that waffle maker but consider also registering for things for your home such as tools and yard equipment. After you move into your “big-kid home there are a lot of leaves to rake and driveways to shovel. Those gift cards to Home Depot will come in handy in the future and save you money down the line! Consider using a wedding registry website that allows you to register at multiple stores. 

∙       Hire a day of coordinator-Yes, it is an extra expense, but 1000% worth it. Skip the Starbucks, work a side hustle, or pick up some babysitting jobs to make it happen! Having a day of coordinator allowed me to relax with my bridesmaids and drink mimosas. On top of that, she was able to take all the decorations I had bought and made and arrange them even better than I ever could have myself. She has an eye for weddings and her personal touch made all the difference! Leave setting up to the professionals and enjoy your day!

∙       Flower Captain-On the day of your wedding, assign someone you trust to make sure everyone including parents and grandparents gets their boutonnieres and corsages. Give that person a list of who’s supposed to get what. I made the mistake of sending the boutonnieres and corsages to the groom’s room, and not all of the grandparents received theirs on time. This is a great job for a significant other of a groomsman!

∙       Allocate extra time- Weddings always seem to run behind. Set yourself up for success and give yourself an extra half-hour buffer between items on your itinerary. Things come up! Someone might need to stop at the store on the way back from the salon, a traffic jam slowed down the trolley or a groomsman needs a belt! Plan extra time into your day to ensure your ceremony and reception do not get delayed!

∙       Talk about money with your fiancé- Money is one of the top fights between couples. There is a good chance you were raised differently and have different values around money. It is ok to have different opinions, the important thing is to understand the WHY behind why your partner thinks the way they do. 

∙       Relax and enjoy- Planning a wedding can be a stressful time, but also the most magical. It all goes by so fast. Soak up every bit of it and enjoy the journey. There are very few times in life where all the attention is on you. Everyone will give you their opinion, but just remember everyone is excited and eager to help. Do not forget to take five minutes for you and your husband alone on your big day! 

 Happy Planning!

-Loyally, 

Stephanie A Trexler, CFP®

Stephanie is the CE0 and owner of Golden Goose Wealth Planning. She helps couples plan and save for the future. Be sure to reserve your spot in Stephanie’s Newlywed class today. https://calendly.com/ggwealthplanning/newlywed

The Best Tips for Running More

I had never considered myself a runner until this year. Sure I have used running as a workout for years, but I never saw myself as one until recently. Before I dive into the tips, let me give you a little bit of backstory so that you know that if you currently don’t like running or don’t run at all, it doesn’t matter. I believe ANYONE can be a runner.

I would consider myself pretty athletic. Growing up, I played basketball and volleyball and spent a large amount of time playing volleyball especially (i.e. travel teams). However, I never liked running. It was always presented as a method of conditioning or punishment and looking back, I can understand why I never liked it. Running is definitely a mental sport and these methods always attached a negative connotation to it.

Fast forward to my adult, post-college life, I would go periods of 2-3 months of consistent running, but never stuck with it for longer than that. I pretty much have always enjoyed working out but always switched it up every so often, which is totally fine! I think a lot of that was due to the fact that here in Michigan there is a large portion of the year that it’s too cold and snowy to run outside and I don’t love treadmill running as much as outdoor running. However, I realized that I had to kick this excuse if I wanted running to become a regular and long term habit of mine. Currently today, I have been running consistently every week (at least 3 times) for the last 5 months and finally call myself a runner. A few weeks ago I ran my first 10K and really enjoyed it! Crazy I know!

My tips are both mental and physical, which I think is key to running more often and longer distances. DISCLAIMER: I am no running expert. If you have specific questions about running ask your doctor or someone who is very knowledgeable on the topic. These are simply the steps I took to enjoy running as a consistent hobby. So let’s get started!

1. Slowly invest in quality running gear.

   This one was especially key for transforming my mental attitude towards running. It all started with me going to a specialty running store and investing in good running shoes that were specifically designed for my wide and flat feet. Check sales and shop a small business in your area for this. Good shoes are KEY!

   I also started buying high quality running clothing. Granted, probably 50% of my running gear is from the thrift store (so this is financially possible and you can find good brands there), but by investing in quality items, it was as if I gave myself permission to be a runner. In the past I have always shied away from purchasing running gear because I didn’t think I would use them enough, and guess what. This resulted in me not running. There was something about making the mental shift that I deserved good gear that gave myself permission to BE a runner.

   I love to use gear as a reward for myself as well. I recently purchased a Nike Waist Belt that holds my phone and keys, etc, as a reward for running my 10K and now I am excited to wear it every time I go for a run. Sometimes it’s the details that help most.

   Yes, you may be thinking, technically you can run in whatever shorts and old t shirt you have at home already. This is true. BUT, if you are struggling with being consistent I highly recommend reevaluating your budget and finding ways to purchase new gear.

2. Music is important.

   I switch up my playlists CONSTANTLY. I do not like running to the same music two runs in a row, so I am always finding new playlists to listen to. Spotify is great for this and can make it fun to share playlists with other running buddies. I love when I’m trying to push through a tough run and a song that I love and I have completely forgotten about comes on and adds that extra pep in my step to get it done!

3. Use an app for tracking.

   If you’re especially competitive with yourself, I highly recommend an app that does all the tracking for you to make progress easy to follow. How can you expect to get better if you aren’t keeping track?!

   I am super picky and have to love the apps user experience on my phone and my Apple watch and I love the Nike Running Club most for this. If you have an Apple watch, you can customized the screen you see when you’re running to exactly what you want (i.e. I prefer to see my heart rate, distance, and time).

4. Set no weekly goals; only monthly and long term.

   This again is another mental strategy that works really well for me. I do not set any type of weekly goals when it comes to running. I aim to run about 3-4 times a week, but I don’t hold myself to any type of schedule. Instead, I give myself a monthly goal of miles to run and if I hit my goal, increase it by 5-10 miles the next month. I also have a long term goal of running a half marathon this year, but it’s simply in the back of my head as something I’m working towards.

   I have found that this is the best system that works for me to get rid of any guilt or feelings of failure, which is KEY in consistency and running long term. Anytime I feel bad about missing a run, I remind myself that this is a LIFE LONG goal, and in the grand scheme of things, missing one run won’t hurt me. I can always do my run tomorrow. I have read and talked to a lot of runners who stop running after training for long races, so I want to make sure that I don’t put too much pressure on myself.

5. Start with intervals.

   If you are starting from ground zero with running it’s important to remember that IT’S OK TO WALK! NO ONE is judging you. This is your journey and we’re trying to cultivate a love of running here, not burnout. When I first started getting back into running, I was running 2 minutes, than walking 30- 60 seconds. That’s ok! You don’t have to run a straight 5 miles in order to be considered a runner. Start small and every couple of runs try to increase that amount of time that you’re running. You’ll get there!

6. Figure out what type of runner you are.

   This is another huge factor in what allowed me to increase the distance I was able to run.

   • Time vs. Distance: Figure out if you prefer to run for a set amount of time or a set distance. I personally am a distance girl because I feel more accomplished by how far I run instead of how fast I run. For some reason, the thought of running for a specific amount of time, feels harder to me.

   • Running Loops vs. Running Distance, turning around and running back: This may seem silly but most runners have a preference. There’s something about that halfway point and turning around that fuels me for the second part of my run. I love that I’m able to add extra distance or even shorten my run if I need to, based on my route. Sometimes I feel really great and want to add an extra mile and by running to my halfway point I’m not committed to a specific loop. It’s also a great way to explore new neighborhoods and areas because you can just run and turn back!

7. Don’t compare your running to anyone else’s.

   Remember: When someone else increases their speed, it does NOT make you any slower. You cannot compare yourself to other people because again, this is your journey. We are all different and the only person you should be striving to get better than is your previous self. I know it can be hard to not do this with social media and fitness everywhere online, but doing your best is all that matters.

8. Listen to your body.

   I have gotten very good at listening to my body now that I’ve been running consistently for awhile. You know deep down if you are choosing not to run because you don’t feel like or because your body needs some rest. On a day where I REALLY do not feel like running, I will give myself 15 minutes to decide. If after 15 minutes of running, my body still doesn’t want to be running, I’ll stop and walk a couple miles instead. I’m still moving my body so that’s great! Don’t force yourself if you aren’t mentally in it. Most times though, after that 15 minutes, I’m good and ready to keep running.

9. One long run a week.

   Long run is completely subjective to each of us. Basically, I try to do one run that really pushes me towards my monthly and long term goals per week. Whether it’s a farther distance or running at a faster pace, I find that this is a good rule of thumb for growth for me. Your timeline might be different, but this is what’s worked well for me so far and hey! I just ran my first 10K!

10. Integrate cross-training workouts, especially yoga.

    Adding yoga and cycling into my workout routine has really helped me stay consistently running. The yoga is great for stretching my muscles and increasing my strength in areas that I might not normally attend to. Cycling is a great low impact way for me to strengthen my legs and glutes, however as you can imagine, I haven’t been able to cycle due to my gym being closed for COVID-19. Some days it’s nice to know I’m working towards my goals while mixing it up and doing something different. I don’t like doing the same thing every day, so this helps me feel like I’m doing something new.

11. Accept that not all runs will be the most enjoyable or fastest.

    Go into this knowing that you will not be hitting personal records every run and some days will suck. Like everything in life, there are highs and lows, running is no exception. Some days I can run over 6 miles and feel so good when I’m done, even like I could have kept going for longer. Then a few days later, 2 miles feels miserable. This is about long term growth, not short term and you must be wiling to put it in the work on tough days too!

Below are some of the items I love for running:

Nike Slim Waistpack

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) I love this thing. I have been using the Series 3 for almost 2 years and she is still going strong! I can still get 2 days of use out of her without charging, but I usually pop her on my charger when I’m showering to add a little extra length.

First Aid Beauty Weightless Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Asics Quick Lyte Women’s Running Socks

Smartwool Socks I like these for cooler weather runs.

Fabletics Leggings I don’t buy anything else from them.

BeatsX Wireless Earphones I’ve been using these for 1.5 years and I love them. I can usually get at least 5 runs out of them before having to charge.

I hope you enjoyed this post and let me know in the comments below what your favorite music is to listen to when running!!

Have a great day and get outside and run,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty. 

8 Positive Impacts from Starting My Day at the Gym

In January, I decided to hop back into my steady working out routine. I missed running consistently and with the added 2020 goals of running a half marathon and buying myself a Peleton bike for my 30th birthday, I knew that I needed to get my routine together.

While I started working out 5 days a week, I completely forgot the amazing effects that a consistent workout routine has on you that don’t involve your physical body.

Today I’m sharing the EIGHT positive effects that implementing a consistent workout routine back in my life, has created. Let’s not forget to take a moment to remember that I also work very hard on listening to my body, resting when needed, and not letting guilt creep in when I want to take a day off. I believe that this is the true way to create a sustainable workout routine that you don’t quit.

1. More likely to do my AM skincare routine:

   When I go to the gym at 5:30 in the morning, I usually bring my gym bag and shower there. This means that I have a change of clothes, towel, and toiletries. I am really good at doing my evening skincare routine, but sometimes it’s hard for me to get out of bed and do it before heading out for the day, especially on days where I don’t wear makeup. I find that having my skincare ready to go in my skincare and makeup bag, makes it a step that I don’t ever skip because it’s right there with me.

2. Not late because I have no choice but to plan in the AM:

   When you have to be somewhere in the morning and decide to workout before, you have no choice but to plan accordingly. I pack my gym bag the night before usually and lay out my gym clothes so that I have as little steps to do before I get out the door in the morning as possible. If you know that you have to be somewhere at a certain time, aka nannying for me some days, I am never late because I know that I can’t be. I find on days when I sleep in and don’t go to the gym, I always sneak an extra 5 minutes or more in bed and find myself more likely to be running behind.

3. I feel more energized throughout the day:

   This one is no secret. I absolutely love how energized I feel all day when I get my workout in early. I love the endorphins! Once you get to a regular schedule, you will love it too!

4. I am more productive throughout the day:

   For me, there is no greater productivity booster than starting off at the gym. Going along with that energizing feeling, there is something about crossing off ‘Gym’ in my planner first thing when I get to planning my day. It sets the tone for my day and helps me stay focused on my goals.

5. I make healthier food choices:

   This one is also another common effect of morning workouts. I find that I crave healthier foods and make better choices because I like to eat specific meals after a good workout, i.e. I usually start with a yummy protein shake and that sets the tone for my food choices all day!

6. Eat a breakfast:

   Going along with #5, when I workout I always have a post workout meal. However, if I don’t run or cycle early in the morning, it’s really easy for me to skip breakfast. I’m not very hungry in the mornings and can easily survive off just coffee in the morning. Working out first thing, forces me to eat that post-workout protein dense meal and start my day off the right way.

7. Able to relax better at night because I can instantly get into relaxation mode when I get home from work. i.e. PJ’s:

   This might be my favorite effect from working out in the morning. I love that by the time I am getting work I have already finished my workout and don’t have to think about it in the evening. My evenings are sacred to me and I love being able to relax or do other things in the evening.

8. Start my day off hydrated:

   The last positive effect is really important for everyone! While I am a really good water drinker thanks to my Hydroflask that goes EVERYWHERE with me, I find that I start drinking my water earlier when I work out. I have no choice but to get 40 oz in with my workout, which again, sets the tone for the day. On rest days, it’s easy for me to go straight to coffee and not get to drinking any water until midday.

As you can see, I love working out first thing in the morning because it really sets the tone to have a productive and healthy day. When do you work out? I realize that not everyone is a morning person, but I hope some of these effects can inspire you to move your body more!

Have a great day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty. 

Sustainable Swap Goals for 2020

I mentioned in my IG stories, that this year one of my 2020 goals was to make sustainable swaps for everyday items throughout the year. (Click here for the list of my 2020 goals) In order to make this a goal that was easier tracked, I decided to make one swap each month in order to make it easier on my budget and more realistic. Enter my IG story that asked you guys for ideas on what swaps I should do!

You were so helpful and interested in this topic that I decided to make a blog post about it, sharing which items I’ve decided to tackle each. Stay tuned throughout the year because I will most likely share the items that I’ve purchased in order to make these swaps.

January: Last month, I ordered bamboo cotton rounds to replace the disposable cotton rounds I was constantly buying. I ordered them here and love them! They are much larger than a traditional disposable cotton round and great for removing makeup or using toner. I also love that this set of 20 came with a little bag to put them all in so it’s easier to keep track of them when you wash them in the washing machine!

February: This month, I focused on my gym bag since I shower there more during than week than I do at home and travel products can often involve A LOT of plastic. I purchased shampoo/conditioner and soap bars from a local small business that don’t come with any plastic packaging. When trying to come up with a way to carry them, I knew I didn’t want to purchase a travel soap container and wanted to get creative. I decided to use a Stasher bag that I already owned that I accidentally cut with a knife. haha yeah, DON’T do that. Don’t cut on your Stasher bag because you will get mad. However, I’m glad I kept it and was able to re-purpose it for this reason. This month, I also swapped the plastic bottle of hand soap in the bathroom at Mikey’s house for bar soap because it’s one less thing that will require re-purchasing product with plastic packaging.

The rest of the months goals look like the following:

March: Reusable produce bags for grocery shopping

April: Beeswax wraps to replace saran wrap

May: Bar mops/rags for cleaning counter tops to replace paper towel use

June: Trying to incorporate more bulk foods shopping so I am buying less products that normally come in plastic packaging for convenience’s sake

July: Dryer balls to replace dryer sheets.

August: A silicone straw for my keys so that I can use it when out of the house (I already have glass straws for home use)

September: Toothpaste tabs to replace traditional plastic tubes of toothpaste

October: Purchasing silicone bowl covers in place of saran wrap for items that need a tight seal.

November: Purchasing more stasher bags because they are expensive.

December: Still deciding on this one. It’s most likely going to be wrapping all holiday presents using only recycled materials unless I find a sustainable swap that I need to add. Most likely in that case however, it would be in addition to wrapping presents sustainably!

Have you made any of these swaps yourself? What am I missing? Comment below if you have anything to add or any ideas for me to try! Thank you to all of you who shared tips and ideas on Instagram!

Have a wonderful day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty. 

Recent Amazon Favorites

I don’t know about you but I love to see the random things people purchase on Amazon and what their favorites are. Here is my list of items I have been very happy with recently.

1. Bamboo ‘Cotton Rounds"‘:

   As I mentioned on IG, as a way to track one of my 2020 goals of making more sustainable swaps in my everyday life, I am switching up something every month. In January I bought these reusable and machine washable natural bamboo cotton rounds and I love them! They are bigger than disposable cotton rounds which makes them great for removing makeup and applying toner!

2. Glo Minerals Pencil Sharpener:

   If you love jumbo pencil-type lipsticks, i.e. Nars, Glo Minerals, etc, you need to have one of these pencil sharpeners. It’s the perfect size and works so well!

3. Glo Minerals Suede Matte Lip Crayons:

   These are my favorite lip products for brides because they look so special, but are never too intense. The formula is perfect for a wedding day because they are comfortable but stay on really well. I love the shades “Monogram” and “Trademark” for my brides.

4. Conair Fabric Defuzzer:

   This is another ‘gadget’ that every woman needs to own, especially if you are a thrifter! It’s a great way to clean up and bring some loved and pre-worn pieces back to life. Let’s also not forget how satisfying it is to shave your clothes and watch them appear neater. My people who love power washing and vacuuming will get this! haha

5. Popsocket:

   I have been a faithful popsocket lover for a couple of years now and I have noticed how much more comfortable using my phone is when I have one. It SAVES your pinky. Now that I have the iPhone 11 Pro Max too it’s especially helpful because this phone is huge and heavy.

6. Book Dart Bookmarks:

   I technically bought these for Mikey for his birthday to go with a book I got him but since the set came with 18, I asked if I could steal one and I am obsessed. If I ever lose mine I will buy my own set, because they are amazing. They are so thin and sleek in your book, but hold your exact line where you leave off…if you are one of those crazy people who can stop reading in the middle of a chapter!!! I am not…haha

7. Washi Tape:

   There is something about washi tape that makes me super happy. I use it in MANY things. In my planner, to wrap presents, to decorate cards, etc. I just love having a diverse supply of colors so I can always have something that works on hand.

8. Gold Necklace:

   I bought this necklace to test out the quality and see if I like this trend of many layered gold necklaces and I’m pleasantly surprised with how much I love the quality of it. I was expecting my neck to turn green but thankfully it hasn’t! I never take it off along with my other gold necklace and it still looks beautiful.

9. Stasher Bags:

   Stasher bags have changed my life and I have several now. I love how I can throw them into the dishwasher to clean them which not all reusable bags can do. They are great quality and I also love that they come in many different colors and shapes. Adding more to my collection is also on my list of sustainable swaps this year!

10. LED Book Light:

    I have only had this book light for about a week but I’m already obsessed. It grips onto your book easily, is rechargeable with an included USB charger, and it has 3 light settings which are awesome! If you need a book light, I highly recommend this one!

Have you purchased anything from Amazon recently that you love? Tell me in a comment below! I am always curious!

Happy Valentine’s Day,

Andrea

Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty. 

Advice for My Pre-Entrepreneurship Self:

I love supporting other small businesses, but especially those that are women owned. I wanted to write a post to encourage those of you who either own their own or are thinking of starting their own business. It can be a challenging and lonely area to navigate, but I do know one thing. We are all better off supporting one another.

I reached out to a few of my favorite women entrepreneurs and asked them to give me a piece of advice that they would give themselves if they could go back in time before their entrepreneurship journey began. I’ve linked their businesses so please do me a favor and support as many as you can. Check out their websites, follow them on social media, and send them love.

Amanda - Leader of Michigan Tribe

If you’re starting a business because you want more freedom, go get a job instead.

Meredith - Owner of Tiny Bits Of Happiness

Embrace being a beginner. Everything will feel new. A lot of stuff is going to feel hard or difficult and you will most likely question yourself at least a million times. You may feel like you are not enough of something, and friend, you are so so enough. Have so much grace with your heart and remember grit makes us tougher. Persist and embrace this exciting new beginning of a chapter. You will probably feel like you are lost at sea a few times, and I'm a true believer in that means you are growing. You've swam away from the shore and you are allowing yourself to get lost and you are allowing yourself to grow. Remember, growing doesn't always feel good. Seek out community. Talk about what's on your heart. And reach out and gather insights from people who are farther along. So many people have been turning around giving out advice, insight and help for free. So while this beginning is a whole lot of things, just remember you are beginning and growing and you are made to do this.

Margaret - Owner of Edgewood Place Occasions & Fortress Coffee Co.

You don’t have to have it all together and it’s okay for your business to evolve. When I started out I thought I had to have everything in place before I “officially started” and I think it hindered me in a way, because I kept pushing off just starting. I was very consumed with getting everything right the first time. Since then my business has changed about four different times and I often feel like I have no idea what I’m doing! But it’s evolved naturally and is now something that feels like the perfect fit. It’s okay to learn as you go and to start before you think you’re ready!

Liz - Owner & Creator of The Lemon Bowl

Don’t let subconscious thought loops from your childhood dictate your reality as an adult.

Kherington - Creator & Owner of Currently Kherington

There's power in saying "no" + that being told "no" is a good thing! I feel like saying "no" + being told "no" actually frees you up to focus on what's important and ultimately means you're honing in on your overall mission/vision. I can honestly say anytime I've put myself out there + have been told "no" it wasn't definite. I ended up working with those same businesses down the line or they referred me for other work that I was a better fit for along the way. + when you can confidently say "no" to a project that may come your way, never feel regret - especially if it isn't in harmony with the bottom line and future of your business. While being a busy mom, wife, + business owner - let's just say my time + sanity are valuable + have thanked me wholeheartedly for this!

Julie Wardi - Owner of 325BLVD Boutique & Blog

I started my online boutique a few years ago. I was pretty young and didn't have much knowledge going in. I think my biggest mistake then, was rushing. I was in such a rush to finish everything that I didn't take the time I needed to make sure everything was the quality that I had envisioned. I closed the site for a while and I recently re-opened it. I think that when starting a business, you'll never truly have all the answers and knowledge - those things come with time and experience. But I do think that my advice to myself would be to slow down! Make sure that things are done the correct way. If something goes wrong, that's okay, just make sure to fix it, even if it puts a bump in your timeline. In the end, you'll be way happier that your finished product is exactly how you wanted it - instead of having a half-ass product, that was finished quickly.

Thank you to all of the amazing women entrepreneurs who contributed to this post!

If you own a business and have some advice, please be sure to comment below and leave it for my readers!

Have a beautiful day,

Andrea

How I Thrift: Tips & Tricks

I told you this post was coming! haha I have truly fallen in love with thrifting and I am so excited to finally talk more about it with you. I know initially I was going to have my friend Margaret (@margaretellenhess) write this post, but she opened a thrifted/antiqued/new shop (@edgewoodplaceoccasions) within an antique store, and her plate became very full. Instead I’m going to have her talk a little bit about her shop on here soon, so those of you who are local to the Jackson/ surrounding areas, can go visit her shop if you’d like!

Majority of my inspiration and love for thrifting has come from Margaret and also my friend Mercedes (@mercedesrichelle). Thank you ladies for bringing this fun hobby into my life that allows me to re-purpose items that are still good (aka reduce my waste) and tap into a whole new way to express my creativity!

Get a cart the second you walk in the door.

The first time I thrifted with my best friend Margaret, she insisted I get a cart when we walked in. I remember thinking like ‘WTF Margs, we’ve been here for 2 seconds, I haven’t even found anything”. BUT GUYS. It makes perfect sense! If you don’t get a cart, you have to carry things in your hands as you find them. This means you don’t have both hands free for searching through racks and that you’re more likely to get tired and overwhelmed because it will feel like a lot of work. If you have a cart, you can throw in whatever you want and don’t have to hold anything! For this reason I also suggest a cross-body purse so that you don’t have to hold that.

If you are drawn to the fabric, fit, whatever, PUT it in the cart.

This is the other MAJOR tip my friend Margaret taught me. If you gravitate towards a piece for a certain reason, just throw it in the cart. It’s impossible to know exactly how it’s going to fit until you try it on and you might be pleasantly surprised by items you never thought would work. Plus sometimes you can figure out a way to style something a certain way that makes it better than what it looks like on the hanger…but more on this in a little bit.

Go with plenty of time to move slowly. It’s not a race.

One of the worst things you can do is go in a rush. I find myself feeling more anxious and overwhelmed when I am rushing myself through racks. Thrifting is not always quick and there’s no guarantee that you will find anything, so it’s important to give yourself plenty of time to treasure hunt.

Bring a friend.

I love thrifting on my own, but it’s always easier and more fun when I bring a friend. I love weird prints and sometimes it’s hard to tell whether something is cute or too dated. Having a friend to give you a quick yes or no can move the process a long faster. Also it may help you to say yes to certain things and step out of your comfort zone!

Keep a running list of items you are looking for on your phone.

Since you don’t always know what you’re going to find at the thrift store I like to always have a list of the general types of pieces I am looking for, for my wardrobe. This helps me keep ideas in the back of my head so that I’m not trying to search every inch of the store every time I go in. Sometimes I really want graphic tees so I’ll head to that area first. This makes me feel like I have a plan in an environment that can sometimes feel a little unorganized and chaotic.

Don’t expect to find everything in one day. Go often.

Thrifting is definitely a marathon hobby. You cannot expect to walk in every time and find 20 new items for super inexpensive prices. If you have the right mindset and work to appreciate the process. It makes the thrill that much better when you find amazing items. I like to go often but only for about 30-60 minutes so that I’m never reaching the point of getting sick of it, any time I go. Also, depending on your thrift store, they might put new items out frequently. So it’s always in your best interest to go often.

Ignore sizes.

This one is so important because sizing is not a universal thing between clothing lines. The standard of sizing within a brand has also changed over the decades, so it’s impossible to know exactly what your size would be. There will most likely be a mix of vintage and current pieces so don’t only go for racks in your size. Some stores are organized by size and some are by color, so it’s important to make sure that you’re looking at everything! I just found a blouse that I am obsessed with and guess what… it’s a size 22W! While I knew it was going to be too big, I had to try it on because I was obsessed with the pattern of the fabric. Fast forward to the fitting room, and after a tie in the front and slight tuck into my high-waisted, tight Levi’s, it became the most ADORABLE over-sized top for super hot days this summer.

Try things on.

Some people get weirded out by trying things on, but I cannot tell you how crucial it is. There are so many pieces that I probably would have bought had I not tried them on because I thought they’d look great when on the hanger. There’s also so many pieces I would have never bought (i.e. that floral size 22W top) had I not been able to put it on and style or tuck it exactly how I’d want to wear it. I obviously wash everything when I bring it home on a deep wash or sterilize washing machine setting, but I think the trying on process is so key to making sure things fit right and you aren’t wasting money. Remember, just because things are inexpensive DOESN’T mean we want to waste our money. A shirt you never wear is still a waste of money, no matter how much you paid for it.

Some of my favorite pieces to get at the Thrift Store:

1. Blazers

2. Denim

3. Button-Down Blouses

4. Workout Tops

5. Basics

6. Skirts

7. Jackets/Coats

8. Accessories (Belts, bags, scarves, etc.)

I think this is all I’m going to talk about for now because I want to talk about thrifting on a more regular basis on my blog. I have truly fallen in love with every part of it, so I’m excited to share my finds with you all. I asked on Instagram if you’d like to see monthly thrifting hauls and how I style the items with those I already have and got a very postive response. More than half of you wanted to see them as IGTV episodes, but a good amount of you wanted them as blog posts, so I think I’ll still post on here every time I make a video that corresponds for those of you who just want to read!

If you have any additional tricks for thrifting leave them below! Also tell me your favorite thing you’ve EVER thrifted below.

Have a beautiful day,

Andrea