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Spring Skincare Tips

Spring is in full bloom – the days are getting longer and the air is getting warmer. That means it's time to freshen up our skincare routines for this new season. You want your skin to feel fresh, clean, and beautiful throughout spring and summer, so we compiled ways to ensure a healthy skincare routine for spring. Turn over a new leaf and enjoy these five tips for spring skincare.

1. Exfoliate

Winter’s cold weather can really dry out your skin, so it's time to get rid of the flakes for a fresh start. Exfoliating the skin removes dead skin and dirt while making your skin look bright and healthy. Our favorite way to do this is to run a hot bath and use a gentle, full-body exfoliation scrub. Make sure to pay extra attention to any areas that experience extra dryness.

When it comes to exfoliating the face, many scrubs are too harsh for facial skin. Instead, try chemical exfoliants, such as facial peels to gently exfoliate the face.

2. Switch to a Water-Based Moisturizer

While thick, cream-based moisturizers help keep skin hydrated throughout winter, the same products can leave your skin feeling greasy as the weather gets warmer. You don’t want to clog your pores  or over saturate your skin, as it holds more water during the warmer months. Try a water-based moisturizer to leave your skin feeling fresh and hydrated without that greasy feeling. 

3. Spring Clean Your Makeup Tools

After a long winter, spring is a great time to cleanse or replace your beauty products. Makeup applicators are a breeding ground for bacteria, and the longer you go without washing the dirty buildup off your tools, the more it can irritate your skin. Make sure to clean or swap out your makeup brushes, sponges, washcloths, etc. to leave your skin looking flawless.

4. Boost Your SPF Game

Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial to maintaining fresh, healthy looking skin. Wear sunscreen (in addition to the SPF in your foundation) to protect your skin from damage, even on overcast days. If you want to avoid a heavy, greasy feeling, choose a lighter sunscreen that won’t clog your pores. And the best part is, you can just put your makeup on top of your sunscreen and you won’t even know it’s there!

5. Stay Hydrated

There’s a reason drinking water is at the core of every health routine! Drinking lots of water helps your organs function to their fullest potential. Skin is your body’s largest organ, so the more water you drink, the less dry and flaky your skin will be! This doesn’t just mean chugging down water, you can get hydration from fresh fruits and veggies as well. 

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Tips To Creating A Healthy Night Time Routine

The long awaited bedtime after a long day's work is the best time of day, in our opinion. However, many face the challenge of settling down and falling asleep. Creating a daily night time routine is one of the best ways to ease your mind and body to relax before bed. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect night time routine. With these, you’ll be counting sheep sooner than you know it!

Set a Specific Bedtime

One of the most important steps in creating a night time routine is deciding on a specific bedtime. If you set your bedtime and stay with it every day, you will eventually have a consistent sleep routine, which will train your brain to wind down when it’s time for sleep. Also, establishing a set bedtime will help you schedule out the rest of your nightly routine. Pick a time to start your routine every night, and stick with that too!

Quit Caffeine Early

In order to allow your brain to naturally quiet down at the end of the day, cut out caffeinated beverages six hours before your decided bedtime. We love our post-lunch coffee just as much as anyone else, but we’ll stick to other beverages so we don’t disrupt our beauty sleep.

Get Ready for Tomorrow

Up and at ‘em! Planning for the next day will help you get a jumpstart to your morning. We spend a good amount of time getting held up in the morning, whether it be deciding over an outfit for 20 minutes or spending time packing your lunch. To help you get started in the morning, set yourself up for success by knocking out some morning chores as part of your nightly routine. Make your to-do list, pick out your outfit, pre-pack your lunch! Doing these small tasks beforehand will help alleviate the morning gloom.

Journal or Meditate

As part of your night time routine, make sure to spend some time writing in a journal or meditating. Both of these actions require you to reflect on your thoughts and experiences and are helpful outlets to sort through emotions. By taking the time to get your thoughts out before bed, you will be more relaxed and clear minded and fall asleep faster.

Do Yoga / Stretch

Taking time to stretch or do yoga as part of your night time routine can allow you to release both physical and mental tension. By being mindful with your body, you can relax and help yourself ease into sleep.

Create A Hygiene Routine

Following the basic bedtime hygiene ritual gets the job done, but investing in a more in-depth hygiene routine allows you to be mindful with yourself, as well as let your body know its time for bed. You might be surprised at how relaxing a multi-step skincare routine can be. When you follow a hygiene routine, you will truly get your beauty sleep, all while investing in your own personal care.

Ditch The Screens

We love watching a good show before bedtime, but it might not be as relaxing as we think. All electronic devices emit blue light, which tricks your brain into thinking it’s daytime. Rather than scrolling on your phone, stop using technology at the start of your night time routine. Try other options such as journaling, reading a book, or listening to music.

However you spend your evenings, we hope you find a nightly routine that works for you. Sweet dreams!

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Best Places To Eat (And What To Eat) On A Budget

If you’re anything like me, it is a constant struggle for your wallet to hold you by a leash – especially when it comes to our (or my) affinity for the finer things. However, I firmly believe that a love for good food and fine wine should never be compromised by mere money! Another thing that my little heart swoons over is a good restaurant ambiance. In the past, I have suffered bad dinners just to sit at a rooftop restaurant. It shouldn’t be a sacrifice of anything. Why can’t we have it all? 

In all of our honors, I have set out to find the best of the best in Atlanta that would satisfy our taste buds and exceed our dining expectations – all without breaking the bank. 

Dantanna’s 

This one will satisfy the finer things part of our heart, while also staying true to the sports bar roots in us all. For this one, most menu items will circulate around the same price. However, the peppered salmon fillet.. *chefs kiss*! It comes out to about 22 dollars and with a nice Sauvignon Blanc, you’re looking at a total under 30 dollars! If you aren’t a big fish lover, no need to fret just yet. The New York Reuben is delicious, budget-friendly and pairs just as nicely with a Sauvignon Blanc. 

Order Recommendations: 

-Peppered Salmon $22 

-New York Reuben $12 

-Sauvignon Blanc $10 

Firepit 

You can never go wrong with a pizza. If you’re heading to dinner with friends, split a 12″ pie and make it out of dinner only a couple dollars shorter. Nevertheless, you’ll still leave feeling full and satisfied from your delicious Caprese pizza (or whatever flavor you see fit; they’re all delicious). For my sandwich lovers, do I have the recommendation for you! The Chicken Fresco is actually to-die-for. I would spend my last 12 dollars on it. Thank me later. And as always, the Athens girl in me will always stay true to pairing a Tropicalia with anything. This is no exception. 

Order Recommendations: 

-12″ Caprese Pizza $16 

-Chicken Fresco Sandwich $12

-Creature Comfort Tropicalia $6 

TWO Urban Licks 

Pro tip: brunch is the new dinner here, but only because it is that unbelievably good. Head to TWO on a weekend for brunch and there is guaranteed to be a delicious option for any foodie. For the sweets lover, the French Toast is always the reliably good choice – how can you go wrong with bananas foster and powdered sugar? For the heartier “bruncher”, the Fried Catfish comes with gouda grits, creole cream, and charred lemon. Yeah, I know. I’m drooling already, too. As for the drink, it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere! 

Order Recommendations: 

-Fresh Toast $13

-Fried Catfish $17 

-Strawberry Limonada $12 

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Free Ways to Improve Your Mental and Physical Health

Everyone deserves a little T.L.C. and self-love – no excuses or justification needed. After a really long year – and I mean really long – I’ve learned the importance of making sure that your own cup is full before you can begin pouring out into others. I doubt I am the only one who has been feeling like that cup is a little dry lately. So, whether you were nodding along to what you’ve read so far or you could just use a little extra me-time, I wanted to pass along my curated list of ways that I like to reset and fill my tank back up. As all my friends and family have probably heard me say a million times lately, I have declared this the year of “me” – and hopefully, you decide to add yourself to that declaration! 

Podcasts:

I have never been much of a podcast listener until about a year ago. I was very stubborn about getting my information through reading – whether that be reading the news or just books for leisure. Then, I became hooked on one podcast in particular, “Crime Junkie”, and the love affair began. I’m prone to getting overwhelmed by the crowded thoughts swirling around my own head. Complete silence can be hard to sit with sometimes, but podcasts have given my brain a chance to let go of my own thoughts and listen to someone else’s for an hour. If you’re not like me, then it’s just an hour of entertainment which is always good for the soul. 

Podcast Recommendations

Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard (Armchair Umbrella) 

Stuff You Should Know (iHeart Radio)

The Daily (New York Times) 

Crime Junkie (audiochuck)

Read a Good Book:

Although I have moved away from my habit of being entirely stubborn, there will still always be a special place in my heart for a good book. As cliché as it sounds, there is no better way to decompress than sending yourself into another world between the pages. Pair a good book with a nice patch of grass or front porch and there is no way you won’t feel fulfilled. 

Book Recommendations

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini 

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng 

Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson 

The Last Lecture by Jeffery Zaslow and Randy Pausch 

Take a Walk:

Over quarantine, I took more walks than I could possibly count. Maybe it started out of boredom, but very quickly, it became a safe haven. Getting your legs moving is a great outlet for mind and body. Pop in a good playlist, or maybe even a podcast, and clear your head. There’s also an added benefit of a good view, which is hard to beat.

Hiking/ Walking Trail Recommendations 

Sweetwater Creek State Park (2-4 Miles) 

Cochran Shoals Trail (3 Miles) 

Sope Creek Trails (1.5 Miles) 

Kennesaw Mountain Loop Trail (10 Miles round-trip)

Clean Your Space: 

As much as we all dread the process, there is something cleansing to the soul when you’re surrounded by an orderly space. Take the time to make your bed. Keep your nightstand clean. Organize your desk. Get rid of some old clothes and donate them. All of these things, as minute as they may be, make all the difference in the world. 

So, let the year of “you” commence! I hope these tips serve you the way they have me. 

[cwprnest]

Fan-Favorites for National Beer Day!

Cheers to National Beer Day! Trade in your coffee or tea for the day to consume the world’s third most popular drink. Whether yours happens to be hoppy, bitter, dark or golden, you’re still going to want to raise your glass on April 7th for National Beer Day – not to be confused with National Drink Beer Day on September 28th. In order to recognize this day, and help our friends to find the best places to enjoy a delicious, well-deserved beer, here is a list of the BEST places to grab a beer from:

DANTANNA'S:

Three Taverns, Creature Comforts, Wicked Weed, Abita – if you want it, Dantanna’s is sure to have it. From ciders to seltzers, Dantanna’s has a lengthy drink menu. Pairing any beer of your choosing with delicious menu items like Jumbo Shrimp with caper cocktail sauce, St. Louis Ribs, and Lobster & Smoked Gouda Mac N’ cheese will be a sure way to celebrate National Beer Day.

WILD HEAVEN:

Offering beers that have been inspired by traditions from across the world, Wild Heaven offers a unique variety or beer-related beverages making Wild Heaven one of the best places you can grab a beer from to celebrate National Beer Day.

RED'S BEER GARDEN:

Red’s is the first of its’ kind breaking records and rules for beer gardens everywhere. Just off of the Southside Beltline, Red’s offers more than 300 different beverage options from their self-serve refrigerators. They’ve just rolled out the Red’s Loyalty program that will reward you for drinking beer. If that’s not the best way to celebrate National Beer Day, I don’t know what is.

Between these three unique places located in various parts of Atlanta, you and your friends are sure to have a place to enjoy National Beer Day. If you happen to visit one of these places, tag them and @carenwestpr on Instagram with #NationalBeerDay

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STK Atlanta Reveals New Spring Happy Hour Menu

With patio season on the horizon, STK Atlanta is giving Happy Hour a new meaning. Known for its high-energy ambiance and extraordinary seasonal and signature offerings, Midtown’s sexiest dining and drinking destination is launching a renewed Spring Happy Hour. Featuring cravings from $2 - $8 daily. From 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., diners are invited to create unforgettable dining moments at STK’s world-class outdoor spaces while savoring new items including $7 Giant Wagyu Meatballs, Green Goddess Salmon Sliders, Fried Popcorn Chicken; $6 house wine; $2 oysters and more. Imbibers can sip and swirl on half-off specials cocktails and $10 wines including Justin Cabernet and Whispering Angel Rose.

STK’s SPRING 2021 HAPPY HOUR MENU

$2

Oysters

$5

House Beer

Lil’ BRG’s, Served with Truffle Fries

Tater Tots

Hummus & Veggies

Short Rib Croquettes & Mustard Cream

$6

House Wine

$7

Beef Tartare

Giant Wagyu Meatball

Green Goddess Salmon Slider

Fried Popcorn Chicken

$8

Filet Lollipop, Served with Truffle Fries

Tuna Tartare Taco

Crispy Calamari

Jalapeño Pickled Shrimp Cocktail

$11

Specialty Cocktails

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Imagine Music Festival - Back and Making Our 2021 Better

Imagine Music Festival’s smashing lineup was announced on March 24th, and ever since then, Imagine fans from all over have been going crazy. In case you missed the announcements, social media posts, articles, and videos all around the internet, here is all the information you need to know about this year’s Imagine Music Festival.

When is it? Glad you asked. This year, Imagine Music Festival will be raving from September 17th until September 19th.

Where is it? After a challenging 2020, guests will need more space to enjoy an immersive experience at Imagine which is why the new location in the breathtaking Bouckaert Farm in the City of Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia is perfect.

How can I come? The 3-day General Admission passes are available starting at $35. GA passes start at $269 and VIP passes with express entry into the festival, commemorative VIP wristband, exclusive viewing areas, VIP bars, and lounges, and private air-conditioned VIP trailer restrooms start at $399 for a 3-day pass, before fees. 2-pack bundles and camping options are also available. Payment plans are now available for all ticket types. Tickets are available online at www.imaginefestival.com. So, there are plenty of options for any of those looking to make up for missing last year.

Why would I come? The answer is self-explanatory, but this is a good time to brag about that smashing lineup I mentioned earlier. Loaded with massive B2B sets, the lineup for Imagine 2021 includes: Excision; Illenium; Kaskade; Gryffin; Madeon; 3LAU; Adventure Club B2B Riot Ten; Black Tiger Sex Machine, Blunts & Blondes, Carnage B2B Borgore; CharlestheFirst; Clozee; Dabin; Dion Timmer; Ghost Rydr (Ghastly B2B Joyryde); Kasbo; Kayzo B2B Subtronics; Liquid Stranger; Peekaboo; Subtronics (“Wooked on Tronics” set); Shpongle Droid (Simon Posford Live, featuring Android Jones); Virtual Riot B2B Barely Alive. The Disco Inferno stage will feature Fisher with the Catch & Release Takeover and including Lee Foss; Malaa; Shiba San; Walker & Royce; John Summit; Noizu; Sidepiece; SNBRN; VNSSA; Dillon Nathaniel; Deeper Purpose; LP Giobbi; Subrinse, and Westend. The Wakaan Takeover will feature Liquid Stranger; Champagne Drip B2B Luzcid; Shlump; G-Rex; Esseks; Sully; Mize, and a Wakaan Family B2B set. Other local artists and regional support will be there.

Coming out of the pandemic and further into 2021, the time to enjoy live music and events with family and friends has come back, and it is even better! Leave a comment below if you're as excited as we are for Imagine 2021!

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Easter Brunch Spots

The hunt for the best Easter brunch is on. These locations around Atlanta are offering mouth-watering bites along with extensive cocktail, wine and beer options. For those celebrating from home, takeout and delivery options will be available.

TWO urban licks

TWO urban licks is celebrating Easter on Sunday, April 4th, with a family-friendly brunch and dinner. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., brunch-goers can enjoy the holiday with specials created by acclaimed Executive Chef Matt Weinstein.  Fried Chicken Biscuit, French Toast, TWO breakfast, Chicken Salad Melt, and many more enticing entrées are on the menu. Imbibers can wake up to a Morning Irishman, sip on a refreshing Elder Rosa, or swirl a glass Mt. Beautiful Pinot Gris. For those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth, TWO’s dessert menu is guaranteed to impress with a Peanut Butter Pie, Chocolate Creme Brûlée, or Tres Leches Cupcake.

Dantanna’s

An annual tradition, brunch lovers are invited to indulge in Dantanna’s eggstra special Easter Brunch offerings. On Sunday, April 4th, guests can celebrate the holiday where eggs will be the star of the show and choose from an array of dishes created by Executive Chef Brad Parker. Indulgences include a build-your-own omelet station; a surf and turf Benedict featuring a mouthwatering filet topped with poached eggs and lobster hollandaise; huevos rancheros with house-made chorizo, black beans and smoked gouda topped with sunny side up poached eggs and pico de gallo; Heaven on Turf, prime New York strip with a demi-glace and two cloud eggs; and much more.

STK Atlanta

Known for  its  high-energy atmosphere and exceptional, signature and  seasonal offerings, STK Atlanta is celebrating Easter with a weekend filled with special, chef-driven offerings that are sure to impress.  Beginning Friday, April 2nd through Sunday, April 4th, not to miss, classic brunch favorites like the STK & Eggs, Cinnamon French Toast, and Hot Chicken & Waffles will be available along with a Ham, Egg & Truffle Fries entrée. Whether it's brunch or dinner, guests can indulge in an array of holiday, dine-in options created by Executive Chef Andra Montobbio including King Crab Deviled Eggs, Roasted Rack of Lamb, and a Rocky Road Chocolate Fudge Brownie made with toasted hazelnut, marshmallow and Easter eggs. Just for dinner, Honey Citrus Glazed Ham featuring grilled giant shrimp, almond green beans, Brussels sprout coleslaw and parmesan mashed potatoes will steal the show. For those looking to enjoy an Easter meal at home, along with the full menu, STK will have Honey Citrus Glazed Ham for two with almond green beans, Brussels sprout coleslaw, parmesan crusted mashed potatoes and a Rocky Road Chocolate Fudge Brownie for $85 and a single serving for $45 that is available for takeout and delivery.

Kona Grill

Kona Grill is celebrating Easter with brunch and dinner festivities on Sunday, April 4, 2021. Easter Brunch will be featuring mix n' match mimosa specials, Spicy Lobster Avocado Toast, Macadamia Nut French Toast and more.  Brunch enthusiasts can also enjoy the dine-in Honey Ham Brunch including grilled honey glazed ham with breakfast potatoes and three eggs.  The Easter Ham Dinner will be available all day and includes grilled honey glazed ham with whipped mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables with truffle oil.  Seafood lovers are invited to explore the Lemongrass Clam Chowder with bacon, onion, lemongrass, ginger, clams, coconut milk and lime, and Lobster Potstickers with asparagus and lobster butter. To top off the Easter feast, satisfy sweet tooth cravings with Kona’s heavenly Carrot Cake.