Saturday, December 31, 2016

Reflecting on 2016




I’ve heard people say in the past few months, “Can't wait for 2016 to be over” or constantly blaming misfortunes on this year. Don't get me wrong, this year wasn't a breeze, but knowing that each day is a new start of something is quite refreshing! Looking back on this year, I've realized how much growth I've had as an individual. Chasing after goals I have set for myself and not stopping until I achieve them. But being completely honest I haven't checked off all of my “resolutions” for 2016, but I'm anticipating a great new year. I encourage everyone to grab 2017 by the horns and make it your best year yet!

Hope you and your families have a happy and safe New Year!

Xoxo,
Jillian

Friday, December 23, 2016

What to Wear this Christmas

Hi everyone!

If you guys couldn’t tell, I chopped my hair and I couldn’t be happier! I’ve never been so obsessed over my haircut, I usually end up regretting cutting it all off, but I have found perfect length for me. Anywho, since it is Christmas Eve Eve (haha), I wanted to put together a mini “look book for this Christmas”! These outfits are perfect for going to go visit family, Christmas dinners, cookie swaps, or even spending the day peacefully in your pajamas. Hope you all enjoy and have a Merry Christmas!

Xoxo,

Jillian

























Monday, December 19, 2016

Last Minute Gift guide!







Hi Everyone!

Can't you believe that Christmas is only six more days away, I can't wait! If your anything like me and always find yourself scrambling to do something/ or find a gift last minute, this is for you! I put together a "Last Minute Gift Guide" (All under $50) that will be sure to ease the worrying of not finding anything!

Xoxo,

Jillian

Monday, December 12, 2016

Quick Tips to Help You Get Through Exam Week!

Tips to Ace Any Exam

Hey everyone! As we approach the wonderful holiday season, we know we all have to get through the ever so dreaded week of midterms. It's quite mind boggling that I'm almost halfway through my senior year, even though it feels like the first day was just yesterday! Your mind might already be set in vacation mode, but you’re almost done so just endure this final week before break! Below I put together a few tips that are sure to help ace any exam!

1.) Put Away any Distractions
This should be a no-brainer, but it's one of the hardest. Put away anything that can distract you from focusing on studying (phone, music, netflix, etc.). Even if that means leaving your phone in your bedroom while you’re studying in the living room.  This will immediately cut off  any distraction that could just lead you to be awake into the early hours of the morning because you were procrastinating.

2.) Keep in Mind the Long Term, Not Just the Here and Now
I know the hours of studying can seem like an eternity, but be optimistic about the outcome of putting in hard work. I've always been a strong believer of "You reap what you sow." In order to achieve your goals and dreams, you must work for them! Keeping in mind the long term effects of doing well in your classes will help ease the burden of studying.

3.) Prioritize your Time Wisely
Even if this means creating a "mini-study schedule," prioritizing your time is a must during exam week. Make sure you take a few breaks and have a time slot for each subject you have to study for.  And most importantly, get right back on track if you find yourself procrastinating!

4.) Relax!
This week can be quite overwhelming.  With struggling to turn in assignments before they are due or extra credit to boost any grade, be sure to find some time in the chaotic day to find some peace. Take a nice bath in the evening, call one of your friends, light a candle, or eat some ice cream. Reward yourself, after all you've gotten this far!


Sunday, December 4, 2016

Art Basel + Vineyard Vines Contest Recap

Hi Everyone!

This weekend was jampacked with so much happening and went by way too quickly!!! However today, I decided to just unwind and listen to Christmas music! Saturday was quite exciting, I sent in my “audition” tape for the Vineyard Vines brand ambassador contest! I know it'll be just a stroke of pure luck if they choose me out of the thousands of people across the nation that entered, but hey,  it was definitely an experience to do so!  Part of the audition process is that they record you on an Ipad answering a series of questions for 30 seconds and like most people, I hate hearing my own voice on camera so I hope they don't mind! I’m usually quite chatty, especially under pressure, but with only like 30 seconds, I felt like I was talking a million miles per hour!  I kept reminding myself to just be me and have fun with it.  This little note of encouragement my friends gave me prior to going eased my nerves and made me realize that I didn’t need to worry, just present myself in the best way, and be comfortable and have fun with it!

Right as I got home, I quickly got ready for Art Basel in South Beach. (I surprised myself and wore a leather jacket, a bit more “edgy” from my usual style but why not!) Art Basel is world renowned art gallery event that happens once a year down in Miami Beach and celebrities, bloggers, and designers from all over the world come here each year! I was ecstatic to be going for the first time and consider myself fortunate enough to visit such an iconic event without having to travel that far from where I live! It was quite a maze inside the convention center and each time my friend Rachel and I thought we saw everything, we ran into a new section! Next year I hope to get tickets to the fashion and design exhibit.

I hope everyone has a great week!

Xoxo,

Jillian



















Down Below are some of my favorite pieces as of right now from Vineyard vines 

Saturday, November 26, 2016

Holiday Shop 2016


Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Thanksgiving Bites

Hi there!

This post is a little different from my normal posts here on Fabulously Floridian.  I always look forward to sharing my Fashion, Lifestyle, and Entertaining favorites, as well as everything in between that makes me, well me!

As we all know, Thanksgiving is right around the corner, so I thought it be perfect to share a few of my favorite holiday appetizers that are perfect at any family gathering. I’m so excited for this post because I love entertaining. Ever since I was little, I was always trying to find little ways to help my mom in the kitchen, even if it was just cracking a few eggs. This year I'm all about creating new holiday traditions that my family will surely love.

Below are a few holiday appetizers that I will be trying this Thanksgiving and I hope you guys will find some inspiration in doing the same as well! I hope you all have a fabulous holiday filled with creating wonderful memories with your loved ones, as well as cherishing all of the amazing aspects in your life you have to be thankful for!

XOXO,

Jillian

P.S: Don’t forget to enter in my Kate Spade Giveaway! To enter, you must follow me on Instagram (@jillybeaann), comment with a bow emoji, and tag a friend! Good luck everyone, winner will be announced this Friday!
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Berries and Brie Crescent Rolls - Berries and Brie? Match made in heaven!

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Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle: Who doesn't love a good caprese?
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Bruschetta with Tomatoes and Basil: A crowd pleaser and one of my favorites!
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Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip:  A warm dip perfect for a cool, fall evening!

Friday, November 18, 2016

Make the Most Out Of Each Day



To be completely transparent, last week was quite
challenging for me, but that's the hidden beauty in life. Events and circumstances may come your way that are out of your control and facing each challenge helps you grow. When things in my life start getting kind of overwhelming, a side of "Jillian" comes out that is nothing like the spontaneous, outgoing person that I am. I'm more reserved and to myself, I tend to shut a lot of things out than I usually do.

The days have been crawling super slow since my long awaited Thanksgiving break is only a few days away. Feelings of procrastination and laziness have crept inside of me this past week and I find myself wanting to just stay at home and do the bare minimal like stay in my pj’s and lounge around….but wake up!  You've gotten this far, finish strong!!

Last weekend was picture perfect, I cruised across my town with the windows rolled down to pass some time and reflect on the week. To make the most out of every day resonated in my mind. It struck me how I was wasting minutes of my life throwing a pity party for myself rather  than being joyful of this very day. Okay, I know it can be easier said than done, like most things. But I've found ways to help me make the most out of every day, even when things aren't going as planned.

1.) Find Comfort
My friends and my family are my biggest support system whenever I'm feeling bummed and I know they have my best interest at heart. A meet up for some coffee with someone or a girls night can really boost your spirits for the better.

2.)  Look Around You
Days can fly by and we all can get caught up in the same rut of going through the motions.  Stop and take some time to realize how good you have it, you are here. Slow things down and really take in all that your life has given you and be thankful.

3.) Put Some Lipstick On, You Got This!
Studies do say that when you look your best, you tend to do well and feel great. Honestly, this is a proven fact by me! I know you probably just want to sit around in your pj’s, but don't! Take a shower, put some makeup on, wear an outfit that makes you happy.  This will affect your attitude as well as how you handle other situations, feeling more productive and confident through any day!


Thursday, November 3, 2016

Hello November!






Oh how I love the beach.  The peacefulness offers me time to think, dream and realize all of the new and exciting things coming my way during the month of November. After sending out the rest of my college applications on Halloween (which probably made that day extra spooky), it got me thinking about the whole new journey I'm about to take on right in front of me. With the swiftness of clicking "submit," all I have left to do now is pray and wait. This exciting new adventure of "young adulthood" will soon be approaching. (Crazy... Where's the guide to being ready for all these big life decisions when you still feel so young?? Lol.) Also, the end of this month marks the one year anniversary of Fabulously Floridian!!!  I'll most likely write a super sappy post about the encouragement I received and how I tremendously love the decision I made to start the blog (which I seriously do.) But for now, I'm thankful for all the new ideas and dreams having my own blog as created in me. A new drive  of determination in myself to see all that I am capable of accomplishing.

Xoxo,
Jillian

Friday, October 21, 2016

Fall Daydreaming













Recently I've been having such fall envy while scrolling through my Instagram feed. With the leaves  changing color, cooler temperatures, and picture perfect scenery, how could I not be a bit jealous! (Do palm fronds turning brown count?) My fingers are crossed that this weekend we will get our first little taste of the fall season with a high of 70 and hopefully a low of 64! To get into the spirit of fall, I visited my local pumpkin patch along with Kyle, Mary, Hannah, and Rachel. This was also a great excuse to wear this new outfit that i've been anxiously awaiting to wear. Even though my outfit screams fall weather, a tank top and skirt helps this Florida girl to beat the heat!


What are your favorite fall traditons?



Xoxo,

Jillian

Thursday, October 6, 2016

Lazy Day Survival Guide








Hi everyone!

In case any of you haven't been keeping up with the news lately, Hurricane Matthew is expected to strike Florida at any time now.  Ahhhh, nothing like beautiful fall Florida weather! It's hard t I hate to admit it, but ever since yesterday I've been keeping my fingers crossed that school would be canceled for today and Friday. What could be better than sleeping in and not having to take my math test on Friday. I love being the busy body that I am, for example, I'm more of the "super packed weekend" girl opposed to a "having a Netflix marathon" person. With that being said, staying inside for two days without going anywhere or having anything to do, makes me a bit uneasy. If you can relate to me in any way, I created a "Lazy Day / Hurricane Guide" to keep your sanity!

* * *
        
                                                       
   1. Get Productive!
Even though I spent almost my whole morning watching countless reruns of Full House, I dedicated some time to getting stuff done! Catch up on some assignments or finish things you have been procrastinating for weeks. Now is the perfect time to get the load off of your shoulders from any task/ responsibility you've been putting off.

2. Treat Yourself
If you are constantly on the move; it's important to take care of yourself along the way. Take a relaxing bath, listen to some calming music, online shop, indulge in some "me" time.

3. Get Creative
Try a Pinterest DIY.  All of those recipes or clothing hacks that you've pinned expecting yourself to do, why not do it now! Even if it ends up an utter failure like some of my favorite hilarious Pinterest fails!

4. Clean up!
I know this isn't anyone's favorite pastime activity, but decluttering is a great time killer and is scientifically proven to put you in a better mood!

5. Get lost in the pages of a Good Book
Whether or not your power has shut off due to the hurricane or not, a good book with a cup of coffee and some candles are essential for any cozy day indoors!

I hope every Floridian stays safe during this storm and for anyone who isn't affected by it to please keep everyone in your prayers.

Until next time,

Jillian






Sunday, September 18, 2016

Fall Must Haves












Hi everyone!

These past few weeks for me have been pretty hectic, between writing my college admissions essays, starting the application process and beginning my first job! Anyways, I put together my Favorite Fall Must Haves for the season. I dream of the day I finally get to experience the beauty of fall weather! I have such a big obsession with outerwear (which is so ironic considering I hardly wear a jacket in the few weeks of 50 degree weather!) But they are too hard to resist! All the pieces shown above are great additions to anyone's wardrobe.





Accessories: Wool Initial Baseball Cap / Tortoise Brooke Earrings
 

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