Fruitful Fashion on Trend | What I'm Wearing

It all started with this lemon dress I found at a local boutique. Right away I was smitten. Yellow always makes me happy and the fact that this ladylike silhouette was covered in a retro lemon print made me grin from ear to ear. As a travel and lifestyle blogger I believe fashion should be as much about the way you feel as it is about style. For that reason I'm so incredibly happy that fruit is trending this summer season. 

It's time for summer picnics and days at the beach. What better way to show your summer spirt than in a brightly colored playful number like these? 

My girls like to get in on the outfit post action. When I spotted this watermelon swim suit for baby London at Target I knew we had an ensemble. A quick peek in Sienna's closet reminded me of this little kiwi dress from last year's Target line. Though it's not available now, I found an adorable replacement covered in strawberries that is just as sweet (listed below)!

What are your favorite summer fashion trends? I love hearing from you in the comments below.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com  

Special thanks to Tara Clemons for helping with the photos


Shop the Look
Toddler Girls' Watermelon Print Halter One-Piece Swimsuit Beach Pink - Circo • Circo • $10.99
Penelope Tree by Miss Behave Girls' Say What? Hearts Pattern Skater Dress - Black • $12.48
Brigitte Bailey Lucy Lemon Printed Dress • Brigitte Bailey • $89
Quay Eclipse Sunglasses • $55
Sensi Studio Watermelon Tote • Club Monaco • $330
Girls' Watermelon Zip Closure Crossbody Bag Green - Circo • Circo • $9.99
Tiffany & Co. Heart Pendant Necklace • Tiffany & Co. • $125
Picnic Time 'Gondola' Wicker Picnic Basket - Grey • Picnic Time • $167
Sur La Table Lemon Basil Soy Candle • Sur La Table • $12.59
Sur La Table Lemon Napkins, Set of 4 • Sur La Table • $17.49

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.

Pretty in Plaid | What I'm Wearing

Looking for a scene stealing look that's also cozy and warm? I love this plaid number I found at Anthropologie (while shopping for these great Gift ideas). It's perfect for the Holidays, and great for layering. Pair it with a little bling to dress it up or add some leather for a more urban feel. Make it your own and have fun! I wore this look on The Chat for my last appearance, and it was a huge hit. Read on for more details. 

Mix patterns with a monochromatic textured knit!

I love this neutral reversible tote!

Soft and feminine with a flowing full skirt. I paired this look with a little blinged out belt. 

A great look for traveling since it's so versatile! 

Here are some similar finds below.

Holding Horses Plaid Acreage Dress • Anthropologie •
Tylho Wrapped Plaid Dress • Tylho •
Evenuel Plaid Shirt Dress •
Halogen ® Blurred Plaid Wrap • Halogen •
FRAAS Classic Plaid Poncho • Fraas •
Anthropologie Quartier Plaid Scarf • Anthropologie •
UGG Australia Analise Lace-Up Ankle Bootie, Chestnut • UGG •
Sam Edelman Elina Suede Over-the-Knee Boots • Sam Edelman •
Sam Edelman Penny Boots Whiskey 10 Boots • Sam Edelman •
meli melo Fleming Handbags • Meli-Melo •
Miss Albright Terreno Reversible Tote •
Ela Scandi Tote •
SEPHORA COLLECTION Rouge Cream Lipstick •
Dolce & Gabbana The Lipstick Classic Cream Lipstick • Dolce & Gabbana •
Burt's Bees Magenta Rush Lipstick .12oz • Burt's Bees •

Want to meet? I'm hosting a special event at Anthropologie in Jacksonville at the St. Johns Town Center Tuesday December 22nd from 5-7pm. I'd love to meet you and help inspire your last minute shopping list! There will be prizes, personal styling, and seasonal refreshments. What's not to love! 

Until then....

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Photography by Aimee Dodds
Hair Cut and Color by Rio Hair Studio

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

Flashback Femininity | Outfit Post | Featuring Anthropologie

Today on the blog I'm pairing another set of fabulous flare leg jeans with an ultra feminine blouse. Who says moms have to wear mom jeans? Toss those lumpy trousers in the waste basket and pull on a pair of these dark wash Citizen of Humanity flares complete with rear sculpting technology. Can I get an Amen?!

How darling is London's Baby Essentials dress?

I'm loving the detail on this embroidered pull over by Akemi + Kim. The fabric is super soft and the cross over design is not only flattering, it also assures baby has access to what's for dinner. A must have for me! Find this Akemi + Kim Blouse at Anthropologie here

Slip on a pair of these Ray-Bans for an ultra cool look.

These delicate little earrings add a delightful feminine touch without being overbearing. A great staple for any wardrobe. 

Have you explored the seasons latest trends? What's on your wish list? I'd love to hear from you in the comments below. 

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Photography by Aimee Dodds

Hair by Rio Hair Studio

Details

Citizens of Humanity Fleetwood High-Rise Flare Jeans Ozone Rinse 28 Pants • Citizens of Humanity • $228

Ray-Ban Aviator Rb3025 • Ray-Ban • $200

Anthropologie Aigeiros Mini Hoops • Anthropologie • $34

Cooper and Ella Window Pane Blouse • $99

Franco Sarto Sunitha • Franco Sarto • $54.99–62.99

Baby Essentials Baby Girls' Bubble Romper • Baby Essentials • $8.24

PLH Bows & Laces Rosette Head Wrap (Baby Girls & Toddler Girls) • $14

Infant's Harper Patent Leather Flats • Bloch • $16.99

Physicians Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Felt Tip Eyeliner + Serum, Ultra Black • Physicians Formula • $10.95

Urban Decay 'Naked' Palette • Urban Decay • $54

Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color • Bobbi Brown • $27

Shop The Look Here

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

Close to My Heart | What I'm Wearing | Featuring NüRoo

The last few weeks have flown by. I can't believe little London is six weeks old already. I've embraced every precious moment of her time as a newborn and I have to admit I've been surprised how much more laid back this experience has been compared to my first born. I think a lot of it has to do with not being a rookie parent. There is a certain amount of confidence that comes with having survived the trial by fire the first time around. Despite all that experience a lot has changed in the last five years and I'm enjoying some of the new products and tricks out there to keep baby and momma happy and content. This week I have a round up of my favorite products by NüRoo including their baby wearing shirt the NüRoo pocket. 

NüRoo Swaddler

Why I love it: London came out loving the swaddle. This was something we hadn't experienced with our first. The nurses make it look so easy when you are in the hospital, wrapping baby up like a little burrito, but when you get home, it's a little difficult to duplicate. NüRoo makes it easy for you with their lightweight stretchy fabric and functional design. Best of all this swaddle grows with baby. There are three sizes in one so you don't have to keep purchasing new ones! 

Benefits: Swaddling is proven to help babies stay calm by mimicking the cozy feeling of the womb. This swaddle is easy to put on and take off, includes moisture wicking fabric, and grows with baby. 

London loves her hands and tends to break out of the swaddle. NüRoo's swaddle is the most secure we've found yet.

NüRoo Nursing Scarf

Why I love it: I love that there is finally a nursing cover that also has function. There are so many ways you can wear this piece. Wearing it makes it one less thing to put in your already stuffed diaper bag. Additionally the fabric is so soft you will find yourself wrapping baby up to stay warm and cozy.  The secret behind all this functionality? The perfect length of fabric and some perfectly placed snaps. I chose this neutral print that goes with practically anything. I give this an A+ rating especially when it comes to traveling!

Benefits: A fashionable accessory that is there when you need it. Wear it as a scarf, a vest, a tunic, and more. Use it as a nursing cover or a cozy blanket for baby. 

The NüRoo Pocket

Why I love it: Designed to nurture skin to skin cuddling, this creative wrap shirt is quite comfy for mom and baby. I love that it allows me to wear baby hands free so I can do what I love best, create great content for you! Oh and do laundry... ahem. The perfectly placed velcro pieces secure baby snugly and the support belt keeps baby safely in place while continuing to adjust to your ever changing body and growing little one. In the back a mesh cutout allows for additional ventilation so all that snuggling doesn't get you too steamy. 

Benefits: The benefits to wearing baby are lengthy including accelerated brain development for baby, less crying, and encouraged breastfeeding behavior. Moms may experience quicker postpartum recovery, increased milk production, and reduced risk of postpartum depression.

What will they think of next? I'm so grateful for helpful products like these that offer not only fashion, but function. Whether you are a parent to be or a friend or family member of someone expecting, I think you'll agree that these NüRoo items deserve to be added to the must have list! 

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Shop the Look Here 

NüRoo Skin-to-Skin Pocket in Black • Buy Buy Baby • $59.99

NüRoo ® Nursing Scarf in Navy • Buy Buy Baby• $29.99

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.

Welcome Baby London | Family Post

After three weeks of maternity leave, I'm coming out of my sleep-less fog to formerly announce the arrival of our newest addition. Little London arrived August 18th and is a healthy, sweet little girl. Our family is beyond thrilled and have enjoyed soaking up the last few weeks enjoying every beautiful moment. We couldn't be happier and appreciate all of your good thoughts and kind words over the last few weeks! Here are some highlights. 

Wondering what kind of adventures our new family of four will be planning in the near future? We have lots of exciting travels coming soon so hang in there. It's going to be a fun ride!

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

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.

Surviving Disney | How to Navigate the Happiest Place on Earth

Ah Disney, the happiest place on earth... or is it? For every few smiling faces you pass, you may observe the unfortunate grimaces of the discontent not exactly having the happiest time. Personally I think this Jim Gaffigan comedy bit kinda nails it. Yes, this place can be the living breathing version of all our fantasies. There is no doubt the staff are doing their best to make that happen. But let's face it, when you put a bunch of parents with their kids all day in a crowded park waiting on mechanical rides and spending lots and lots of money, there are bound to be some melt downs... from the kids too. After our recent trip to Disney (taking our 5 year old daughter for the first time) we learned in all the wrong ways, how to do the right things to survive the Happiest Place on Earth.

Riding the Magic Carpet Ride at Disney

Help Technology Help You 

1. My Disney Experience Website and App (Free)

Download the My Disney Experience App

There are no paper tickets at Disney in this modern world. When you purchase your ticket they will come with barcodes and ID numbers. The first thing you should do when you purchase your ticket is download the My Disney Experience App and pull it up on your browser. Register your ticket numbers and link them if you are traveling as a family. This may seem overwhelming but in reality is pretty simple. You just may want to reserve a hour or so one evening to get it done. 

What else can you do? On My Disney Experience you will also have the ability to reserve your Fast Passes (you get 3 daily) and make dining reservations. 

Tip: It's important to register as early as possible. The sooner you reserve your Fast Passes the earlier you can get them. 

How we learned the hard way: We learned the hard way as we bought our tickets only a few weeks before our trip and the only fast passes left were for late in the day which were not as ideal for us. 

Tip: In Addition to registering your tickets it's not a bad idea to take a picture of the back of the card and make sure you have the ID number for the ticket in case they are lost or stolen. Also make sure to bring the card you purchased the tickets with in case you lose them. It will be much easier to get them replaced if you take these precautions.

We reserved Munchkin's meet and greet with Ariel as a Fast Pass on My Disney Experience

Download Disney World Wait Times

How we learned the hard way: As a busy mom I was much too concerned getting the kiddo packed and in the car... Sadly I forgot the important part of the trip... THE TICKETS! Fortunately we were able to get them replaced since I registered them on My Disney Experience. Unfortunately since I hadn't brought the card I purchased them with, we had to wait in the Will Call line for over an hour. P.S. The Will Call line is also where you purchase tickets if you buypass the main gate. The lines are long, and can really kill the "happy" vibe upon arrival. No kid or parent wants to stare at the gates for an hour and wait to have fun. 

2. Download Disney World Wait Times App (Free)

This app gives you the real time wait for each ride and character meet up. It will help you navigate away from the long wait rides and get to the fastest so you can have the most fun! 

Tip: Do your research ahead of time and find out which rides typically have a long wait time and which have short ones. Don't reserve fast passes for the short wait rides, that's a waste, use your fast passes only for the long wait rides. 

 

Money Savers

1. Purchase your tickets at AAA for a Great Deal 

We compared and AAA had by far the best deal. It was worth buying a membership just for the discount. Also if you live in FL, check out the terrific Florida Resident deals. Also multi day passes and sometimes the Park Hopper passes carry special savings. Make sure to do your research if you want to save. 

Tip: Multi day passes also take the pressure off having to fit everything in one day. Do a half day, then enjoy the pool at the resort and return the next few days to take in attractions you missed the first. This is helpful if you want to go later one day and take in the fireworks instead of trying to stay from sun up to sun down.

2. Save Your Gift Purchases for the Last Day

This saves you the effort of hauling it around the whole trip, and allows the kiddos time to really decide what they want. It also saves Mom and Dad from purchasing at the beginning and the end. 

What a perfect place to make a baby announcement....

3. Purchase Gifts in Advance at your Local Disney Store

Consider purchasing Disney gifts in advance at your local Disney store and giving them to your kids the last day. We found the local store prices to be much lower than in the park. (that goes for autograph books which every kid deems a "must have". 

4. BYOF

Bring your own food. I was surprised to learn that Disney allows you to bring in your own food. This saves you tons of money. We did PB&J sandwiches, waters, cheese and crackers, fruit, and snack foods. We just stored the mini cooler in the stroller storage and went on our merry way.

Play Smart

Minnie excited about the new addition

1. Stay in a Disney Resort if Possible

If you can stay in a Disney Resort it's really worth it. There are so many perks such as transportation to the park (save on parking fee), and Magic hours (special times the park is open just to those staying in the resorts). Right now Disney has also launched their wrist bands for resort guests which serve as your room key and your park ticket as well as your fast passes. 

How we learned the hard way: We did not stay in a resort, but did have a close resort that provided shuttles. Unfortunately the shuttles left at odd times keeping you stranded at the park if you needed to leave earlier. 

2. Avoid Peak Season, Weekends, and Peak Hours in the Day

Summers are crazy hot and plagued by afternoon showers, and weekends are full of events. Do yourself a favor and go during the week on off season (late fall, winter, early spring). You won't have to battle the crowds as much and you'll be able to get so much more of the park in. Also if you get to the park first thing you have more opportunities to score rides that usually have long wait lines. 

How we learned the hard way: We arrived at 1pm on a Saturday (during off season) which happened to be an event weekend. The park was packed with folks and we nearly lost our nerve trying to navigate the throngs of people. We hadn't used strategy reserving our fast passes which were spaced out and and at odd times. Our wait times were terribly long for rides that weren't exactly the most popular. The second day we went first thing in the morning and were able to get twice the amount of rides in by mid day than the day before. 

The perfect Disney sunset

3. Strollers = Crowd Control

Take a pic of your parking lane

We have a 5 year old and unashamedly brought her stroller. Why? Even though she is a "big girl" a full day in the park on her feet is tiresome. Bringing the stroller allowed her the opportunity to rest between rides and us the ability to navigate the crowd easier by weaving in and out without pulling her through the crowd. It also kept her from getting lost and we had a place to store our food. Fortunately Disney is ready for this and has "stroller parking" at every ride. 

4. Extra Power

Consider getting an extra battery for your phones. If you are using the apps, they are likely to drain your phone and no one wants to be without their phone aka camera while making memories. 

5. Take a Picture of Your Parking Space

After a long day your brain is fried. Who can really remember the row they parked in? Save yourself the memory jog and take a quick pic of your parking lane so you will remember where you parked at the end of the day instead of wondering aimlessly through the parking lot with children in tow.

These simple tips can make a world of difference the next time you venture to the land of magic and make believe. Make it a happy trip and save yourself some stress. I know there are some of you with even more tips. Share them in the comments below and you may see them show up on the blog sometime. May your Disney trips be magical!

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Watch me Discuss my story on The Chat here.

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