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Jumat, 23 September 2016

How to Style Family Portraits


It's finally fall and if you haven't already, it's time to start thinking about your family portraits. I'm not uber traditional when it comes to the holidays, but after years of being professional photographers and working with hundreds of families, one thing there was never a question about was doing our own family photo for Christmas Cards. What to wear is always the question, but this year I spotted the "It" dress early and I'm happy to say we already have the Christmas Cards in hand to send out and it's not even October (patting myself on the back)! Here are a few tips for planning your style for this year's portrait. 


Sisters pose for family photos on the beach

Where Will You Display?


The first thing you need to think about is where you plan on displaying your images. If it's just for your card then you have a lot more choices for wardrobe. If you plan on putting these up on your walls then you need to think a little more strategically about the colors you are going to use. This year I knew we were going to put these images on canvas and hang on the wall. We don't have any pictures of London on the walls yet and I wanted to incorporate her into our gallery. 

Couple embracing on the dunes at the beach
Choosing a Color Scheme

We live at the beach and our little cottage has a of neutrals. I wanted soft colors that reflected the coastal lifestyle but would also blend in with our decor. I ultimately decided to go with soft pastels in teal and pink. The exact shades didn't have to match perfectly. As you can see, we are in the same color spectrum without having the exact shame shades. Also, and this is very important, you need to choose colors you know look good on you.
Couple shares an intimate embrace on the beach

Deciding Where to Shoot

In our neck of the woods it's a little cliche to shoot at the beach. It really never gets old, but we try to mix it up from year to year. This year we came back to the beach because I wanted the location on display in our beach home. I envisioned a dramatic scene to add romance to the images, so we chose a more remote beach location to create an epic scene. When deciding on location consider the time of day and lighting. Assuming you are working with a professional photographer, they will likely know the best local spots to shoot and the best times of day. A common issue is that popular locations may be busy with tourists and locals. It's a good idea to choose a weekday if possible to cut out some of the background traffic. This is another good reason to shoot earlier in the season because it starts getting dark earlier in October and November. By the end of the season and closer to the holidays you have to shoot outdoors around 3pm in order to get anything good. 

sisters pose together for family picture

A Few Tips 
  • Avoid patterns and stick to solid colors. Patterns will draw away from your faces.
  • Make sure to feed kids (and Dad) before the shoot. This can dramatically effect attitude during the shoot. 
  • Consider kids bed times and try not too shoot so close to nap or bed time if possible. 
  • Nature will be nature. Consider having a rain date in mind in case of weather. Also, for beach locations, you may have to deal with a considerable amount of wind. We had a lot of wind for our shoot, and I hated it. It can ruin everything. So know the risk and plan accordingly. This is a good time to wear your hair up. 
  • Less is more. When choosing your accessories, don't over style. Too many accessories make an image heavy and distracting. It may look good on a fashion post but not hanging on your walls.
  • Don't be afraid to get moving. We loved shooting families chasing their little ones and having fun together. For this shoot my husband wanted to dip me. How fun are these shots? 
  • Don't be afraid to go on pinterest and pull your favorite poses and pictures. Your photographer will appreciate knowing what you are going for and what you like as far as style, lighting, and formatting. 
  • To save money shop Groupon for canvases, Christmas Cards, and photo books. I have found Canvas on Demand, Shutterfly, and Picaboo on Groupon and they are some of my preferred vendors. 
Amy West and husband on the beach


Amy and David West being playful on the beach



Let's Go Shopping

So where did we get our outfits? Well, you might be surprised to learn that my dress and boots were the only new pieces. My husband's shirt was from Brooks Brothers a few years back and my daughters dresses were hand me downs that just happened to be perfect. I really gained inspiration for the entire shoot around my dress. I spied it online at Anthropologie about a month ago and thought it was the perfect family portrait dress. The tulle is soft (and not puffy), and I knew it would move well in the ocean breeze. Really this dress would go with just about any location since it is so neutral and a classic silhouette. I chose the boots from Nordstrom to add a more distinct look.





What are your favorite photo tips? I'd love for you to share in the comments below.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Special thanks to:
Tara Clemons for helping us with the awesome photos
Rio Hair Studio for my trendy new cut and color
Guana Beach for the gorgeous background

Laugh at Yourself

We may make it look easy, but know that family pictures are just as challenging for us as it is for everyone else. Fortunately you really only need 2 to 4 good images which  we thankfully scored even though our kids weren't feeling it, the wind was crazy, and it was still a little early to shoot. Here are a few of our outtakes. I know you are laughing with us not at us right? 

outtakes of family photos on the beach
Those eyes though...

outtakes of family photos on the beach
Almost had it. What are you doing Londy? 

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Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Senin, 19 September 2016

The Must Have Boot of the Season

Amy West Travel Style

For the last few years I've had my eye on a pair of over the knee boots that I finally scored this season. Style them with a sweater dress, or mini skirt and they can turn a ho hum outfit into a showstopper. I love this reasonably priced suede pair I found at Nordstrom. The color is perfect for just about any outfit, so you can strut your stuff all season long. Here's how I transformed my every day style into an edgier date night look. 

Amy West wearing over the knee boots from Nordstrom
High Contrast 
For this ensemble I took several high contrast staples and shook them up a little. On it's own this turtle neck sweater tunic from Anthropologie isn't all that sultry. A pencil skirt is typically more daytime than nighttime but transformed into a high waisted mini it takes on a new attitude. The over the knee boots on their own have plenty of star power but add in these over the knee tights and the sexiness doubles. The ideal date night combination. The great news is the individual pieces can still be worked into daytime outfits in multiple combinations making sure you get your dollars worth for days to come. 
Amy West in a sultry fall style

Amy West in an over the knee boot from Nordstrom

These London skyline tights were a gift from a friend and I adore them. I have a fascination with the city (I actually named my daughter London), so it was a perfect fit so to speak. I couldn't find them available anymore, but I did link to some similar varieties below. 
Amy West in Stephanie Kantis necklace


Amy West in over the knee tights and boots

Shop the Look


Shop the Links
Hat(Similar)- Sweater Tunic -Skirt (Similar)- Boots - Bracelets - Necklace - Over the Knee Tights (Similar) - Sunglasses (Similar) - Handbag (Similar)

What are your favorite fall trends? I'd love to hear from you in the comments below!

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 


Special Thanks To:

Tara Clemons for the great photos!
Rio Hair Studio for a stand out job on my hair cut and color.
Garrison Moto in Jacksonville Beach for letting us use their location for our backdrop
Amy West in over the knee boots from Nordstrom
Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Jumat, 16 September 2016

Coast | Where I'm Eating

Coast | Where I'm Eating
A scenic drive and a short ferry ride away from our home in Jacksonville Beach, sits the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island . It's easy to assume the Ritz-Carlton is simply an exclusive retreat for those looking for a top notch getaway. You may be surprised to learn, however, that there are many luxurious amenities open the public. One of those treasures is it's new restaurant Coast. Serving up Modern American Coastal cuisine for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Coast's casual sense of style and fresh local catch will please the eye and the palate and once. Here's what to look forward to when you visit. 



deviled eggs, and shrimp fritters from Coast at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
On the Menu:
Starters
Deviled Eggs, Shrimp Fritters, Poblano Chicken Flatbread
Fresh Local Ingredients 
with an Emphasis on Seafood

Look for a great selection of coastal themed dishes. The freshest local seafood finds a place on your plate alongside a strong presence of traditionally Southern creations. We started with crunchy shrimp fritters, seasoned to perfection in just the right amount of breading. Deviled eggs were given an elevation oscar style with blue crab, a combination that is executed with perfection. A never fail set of flatbreads appear on the menu in the form of Truffle Mushroom, and Poblano Chicken (complete with pork belly and pimento cheese). We tried the Poblano Chicken flatbread as well and I must say the flavors were perfectly balanced and distinct. 
Burrata Caprese with Shrimp
On the Menu:
Burrata Caprese with Shrimp
For our mains we moved on to sandwiches (Swordfish, and Burger) and my lighter choice, a Burrata Caprese with wild caught shrimp. The flavors in my salad were overwhelmingly delicious. I'm always looking out for a destination salad, and this one certainly delivered.
Swordfish Sandwich at Coast
On the Menu:
Swordfish O.L.T. Sandwich 
The sandwiches held their own as well with hearty portions and perfectly cooked proteins. 
Coast's Bistro Burger
On the Menu:
Bistro Burger
with Pork Belly
How do you make a burger even better? Add pork belly!
David West holding Bistro Burger
On the Menu:
Bistro Burger

Try one of each dessert at Coast
Dessert at Coast
Casual Elegance 
At our meal's conclusion we enjoyed perfectly portioned confections created by the Ritz-Carlton's in house pastry chef. These delightful small bites were each a masterpiece in their own right. The best part is you didn't have to choose just one. We grabbed one of each and passed them around the table for a guilt free tasting. (Everyone knows small desserts are calorie free right?)
Mango cheesecake dessert at Coast
Enjoy a bite of dessert at Coast

We couldn't get enough of each decadent dish. I look forward to returning for breakfast and dinner, after all the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West


A latte from Coast's coffee bar
Enjoy selections from a full coffee bar at Coast 

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Senin, 12 September 2016

Fall Fashion Transitional Ideas for Southerners

Fall Fashion Transitional Ideas for Southerners

Back to school has officially rolled out, pumpkin spice is here for the season, and fashionistas everywhere are busting out their booties. Meanwhile in Florida, it's still in the 90's. We tend to play by our own set of fashion rules during this season, I mean, it's hard to zip up your riding boots when your flip flops are still in use for the perfect beach days ahead. Here are some fall transitional ideas specifically for those still suffering from the heat in the South. 

Amy West in faux suede skirt from Le Tote

Floridian Fashion Rule #1 
You Can Absolutely Wear White After Labor Day
This old fashioned rule has mostly be demolished across the board anyway. These days the fashion world has embraced winter white as a thing and soft neutral tones of beige and ivory. In Florida though, especially on the coast, white has always been acceptable year around. 
Amy West in firestone collar from Bauble Bar
Floridian Fashion Rule #2
Toes Are Acceptable All Year Long
While peep toed booties are all the rage this season across the nation, it's no new thing for Floridians. Sandals, wedges, and peep toed anything are welcome all year long in Florida, where it's not uncommon to spend Thanksgiving and Christmas on the beach. 
Amy West in Franco Sarto Wedges

Amy West rocks that east coast style in this chic fall transitional oufit

Floridian Fashion Rule #3
Never Leave Home Without Your Sunglasses
In the sunshine state, you don't leave home without your sunnies. Personally, this blue eyed girl finds herself in a state of panic if I misplace mine. Not just a fashion statement, a good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes from damage while completing your outfit of the day. A worthy investment indeed. 
Fashion blogger Amy West wears a classic chambray top from Le Tote
Here's Why This Outfit is a Fall Transitional Look
1. Muted Colors and Neutrals
While color is always welcome on the coast, I chose mostly muted tones for this look (excluding the wristlet). Just as the season is waning, so too is the saturation of color summer is so famous for.

2. Faux Suede and Leather 
As stated in one of my previous blogs, one of the first things you can do to transition your wardrobe to fall is to bring in texture. Adding the visual texture of suede and leather is one way to accomplish this.

3. Layering 
The end of summer brings cooler evenings and if you are in Florida, random tropical storms and hurricane weather that makes the temperature unpredictable. Keep a classic denim jacket or chambray top handy as an easy go to layering option that will add a bit of timeless style and warmth to any look.

Amy West in chambray and neutral faux suede skirt holding a pink kiss wristlet
Where did you find that? 
Thanks to Le Tote I've been discovering some fun new style finds that I maybe would not have tried before. The chambray top, palms top, and faux suede skirt all came in my Le Tote subscription box as well as the lips wristlet and mint earrings. Each tote comes with five items they will put together for you. My favorite thing about the box though is that you can customize it and pick out items you want specifically. Keep your box as long as you want. If you decide to send back your items they will launder them for you. If you decide to keep the items they are offered at great discounts! I will tell you, I've found it difficult to send much back, I want to keep it all! Intrigued? Here's $25 off your first tote!  Bonus! They have maternity boxes too ladies ( a great alternative to buying a whole new wardrobe for that blessed bump). 

The nail colors I fell in love with at Ulta and the Franco Sarto wedges were older, but you can find more of his work at Nordstrom. The Firestone collar was a great steal from Bauble Bar and this little gem goes with everything from t-shirts to evening wear (a must have)!
Franco sarto wedges, kiss wristlet, firestone collar, and Nicole by OPI nail color




Shop the Links
Palm Shirt - Skirt (Similar) - Shoes (Similar) - Wristlet - Necklace - Earrings - Chambray Shirt - Sunglasses - Belt 


What are your "Go To" layering styles? I love hearing your style tips in the comments below. Have a question about fashion and style? I'd love to chat. Give me a shout.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo - Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Special thanks to:

Tara Clemons for the fabulous photos

Rio Hair Studio for keeping my hair cut and color on point!

Shop the Look

Inspired? Do more shopping here. 


Nail color from Nicole by OPI found at Ulta
In love with this color line up from Nicole by OPI

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Selasa, 06 September 2016

3 Tips for Beginning Your Fall Transition


We made it to September, but in Florida it's still heating up. Like most of America, as soon as the pumpkin spice rolls out I'm ready to feel all the fall feels. I don't, however, want to have a heat stroke. This requires some carefully crafted wardrobe adjustments. Here are 3 Tips for Beginning Your Fall Transition. 

Amy West in over sized sweater from Anthropologie

3 Tips for Beginning Your Fall Transition

1. Texture - Start adding texture to your wardrobe with layers and chunkier knits as seen here with my oversized sweater.

This oversized sweater from  Anthropologie is drool worthy. It's incredibly light and breathable and perfect to throw in that getaway bag. I hate itchy sweaters and this is not itchy at all. I found it to be very soft with almost a terry cloth texture. The embellishment at the sleeves breaks up the color nicely and adds that extra feminine touch. Really, it's just the perfect weekend look to throw on and bounce out the door.  
Amy West at The Bearded Pig BBQ

Cropped chinos , booties, and clutch

2. Color Palette - Begin transitioning to warmer fall tones and duskier shades like these carbon blue chinos, and color block clutch.

These cropped chinos are a great staple for any wardrobe and will get lots of wear through spring, summer, and fall. This dusty blue is a nice alternative to a grey or black and goes with more than you might think. 

The clutch actually came from my Le Tote shipment and I loved it so much I decided to keep it. Let Tote is a great way to discover great new fashionable finds. Here is $25 off your first tote

The fold over design of this clutch is right on trend and gives you room to fit all the necessities. I like to keep a small bag like this I can slip into a diaper bag, then when I am without the kids I just grab it and go. I saw recently that Target had some fun options that are similar too. 
Franco Booties from Nordstrom
3. Bring out the Boots - This is the time to dust off those boots and get to walking. Booties like the ones I'm wearing aren't so warm as the knee high and over the knee designs, but they still bring that fall feeling to your look.

I've been obsessing over these booties from Nordstrom for a long time. I love that they zip up on both sides. You can have fun with this feature and style them up differently to transform the booties into a more relaxed look. This granite color is another great alternative to grey or brown and serves as a perfect neutral that goes with everything. The fit is true to size and though it's not the cheapest boot, it's also not the most expensive. If you are used to grabbing the cheap pair of boots at your local 'Mart, think twice and consider making an investment in a shoe that is going to last you way longer. Plus these fit like a glove and are as comfy as slippers. 
Amy West in a relaxing weekend outfit


Amy West in Sweater by Anthropologie and booties from Nordstrom


Sweater - Chinos - Booties - Clutch ( Similar) - Sunnies (Similar) - Cuff (Similar) - Ear Crawler (Similar) - Little Girls Maxi (Similar) 

What are the first fall pieces you'll be rocking this season? I love hearing from you in the comments section. Share your fav fall looks below!

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West


Special thanks to:

My husband David for the great photos.
Rio Hair Studio for a most excellent job on my hair cut and color.
The Bearded Pig BBQ for a tasty lunch and great backdrop for this blog (full food review here)


Shop the Look





Amy West and daughter enjoying lunch at The Bearded Pig BBQ in San Marco

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Sabtu, 03 September 2016

The Bearded Pig BBQ | Where I'm Eating

Where I'm Eating | The Bearded Pig
Situated in an unassuming corner of Jacksonville's historic San Marco neighborhood, The Bearded Pig BBQ has charmed it's way into the hearts (and stomachs) of First Coast foodies. Recently voted one of Jacksonville's most family friendly restaurants, The Bearded Pig just might be serving up the best BBQ in town. Our family recently ventured out from our home in Jacksonville Beach and headed across the ditch (that would be the intercoastal waterway) to discover for ourselves what everyone is raving about. 



Little girl drawing with chalk
The Bearded Pig BBQ is also part Beer Garden where refreshment, and pastimes are enjoyed by all.
Sienna is seen here making her mark on the surrounding fences. 
Austin Style BBQ

The Bearded Pig (TBP for the sake of this story) takes to task one of the South's most respected traditions. BBQ is serious business down here so if you want to make it, you better be serving up authentic flavor that will stand out. From the first bite I can say with authority that TBP delivers. I've tried BBQ all over the continent and even as far down as Brazil. I know good smoked meat when I taste it and believe me there is no substitute for the real thing. TBP's fast casual concept isn't a new one for the region, but it is a first for BBQ. Folks line up to place their order and find their own seat where their antibiotic and hormone free meat (by the pound or platter) is delivered to their table along with fresh sides made in TBP's scratch kitchen. The restaurant's BBQ is prepared in the style made famous by Austin, Texas (which I've had the pleasure of experiencing myself), and is completely on point. I was also encouraged to learn that  all the sides were exclusively vegetarian, certainly something new for Southern sides traditionally packed with pork or dairy of some sort. 
The Bearded  Pig BBQ's Bearded Poutine
On the Menu:
Starter
Bearded Poutine
Fries, Burnt Ends, Pork, Curds, Pimento Cheese
Made from scratch Pimento Cheese
On the Menu:
Starter
Pimento Cheese
+ Saltines
A healthier version of the Jalepeno popper that boasts more flavor than the fried version
On the Menu:
Starter
Jalepeno Popper
Cream Cheese, Sausage, Wrapped in Bacon
Toddler plays with chalk at The Bearded Pig
London takes her turn with the chalk 

The San Marco BBQ platter at The Bearded Pig
On the Menu:
The San Marco Platter
+ Some
Sides: Baked Beans, Slaw, Potato Salad
BBQ Sauce from the Bearded Pig
An array of BBQ Sauces at The Bearded Pig

Made from scratch slaw
On the Menu:
Made from scratch vegetarian Slaw

Baked Beans from Jacksonville's The Bearded Pig BBQ
On the Menu:
Baked Beans
Prepared with more of the sweet and sour method (Sooo good)
Family Focused 

It was refreshing to take the kids to a dining location that encouraged them to let loose and enjoy themselves. We dined on a late lunch one Saturday and it was lovely to watch the kids be free. Feast at your leisure and cool off under the misters surrounding the outdoor patio. There's no rush, and the kids wont want to leave. Sienna was particularly impressed with The Bearded Pig's modern take on BBQ commenting several times on how tasty it was, and of course she had a blast chasing her sister around the lawn. 

Kids playing in the backyard at The Bearded Pig
Sienna chases London through the yard

Made from scratch Banana Pudding
On the Menu:
Banana Pudding
Made from Scratch  (like grandma used to)

David West and daughter Sienna pose for the camera in The Bearded Pig's backyard
David and Sienna cheese it up for the cam in The Bearded Pig's backyard

We all heartily enjoyed every bite of The Bearded Pig's BBQ and can't wait to return. I captured every tasty course on instagram stories in real time. Did you enjoy it with us? Make sure to stay up to date on all our adventures on social media and here on the blog. Find me on instagram under AmyWestTravel for more great behind the scenes moments. 

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo - Amy West


Cover Photo: Pimento Cheese Corn Cake with Pulled Pork and Jalepeno Jam

children playing in the yeard at The Bearded Pig

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.