Author: luxeandloaded

Happy 1 Year Anniversary to Me!

This January marked the 1 year anniversary of when I started my blog!
So I have to take a moment to give myself a little pat on the back because I’ve stuck to it and I actually love doing this!

Yay me! 🎉🎉🎉
Happy Blogiversary!

I tried blogging years ago, as it started out as an online travel diary so my friends knew what I was up to half way across the world – but it was short lived.

Then, after years of me contemplating actually starting a new blog, I finally did it. At first, I was worried the same thing would happen – that I’d lose interest quickly or it would be too much work to keep up with and maintain, but I made it through year one!

So I’ve decided to do a little reflection post on what I’ve learned during the past year since creating Luxe & Loaded.

– What I like –

I very much enjoy the photography aspect. I’ve always been a artsy person, but more so on the drawing and painting side. Never thought about getting into photography as vacation pics was as far as I went, but I realized that I actually really enjoy staging photos. Flatlays are my jam. I get super excited when I have a day off to take my photos. And I love shopping around for props and getting inspiration from the cute little knick knacks I find.

I also love the feeling of a new post going live and seeing it on the WordPress feed amongst the other blogs. It’s a tiny confidence boost that I’ve accomplished another post that I put my time and effort into. And seeing it there with other posts from people around the world who are doing the same thing is super exciting.

– What was hardest –

Starting the damn thing!
As mentioned before, writing a blog was something I’ve contemplated about for the longest time. And for the longest time I never did anything about it. It’s not like there was never a good time, because any time was a good time. There is no special day or month or season that’s ideal for jumping into something new. You just have to do it. And I finally did it. So as those bad tattoos say, ‘no regerts’!

What else?
Oh, my name!
I’ve always like creative writing and telling stories. So I knew I wouldn’t have any issues with that, but thinking of a name was probably the second hardest thing in the world! It couldn’t just be any name. It had to represent me. And I didn’t want a temporary name and then have to change it halfway through once I finally decided on one. It was many days and nights and weeks of brainstorming, going through the dictionary and thesaurus, looking up definitions, rhymes, wordplays, liking one then hating it… until I kept going back to one and repeating it over and writing it out and tah-dah! Luxe & Loaded was created.

– What surprised me –

This thing is world wide. I’ve had people from Netherlands to Brazil to Kuwait visit my blog. And even if it’s just the homepage, or they have no idea what I’m saying due to language and translation, it still surprised me that I had a reach to these people.

Before I started writing, I never imagined a target audience outside of North America. So to know that I have readers out in Germany or Ireland who stop by my blog second is amazing! It may have just been one person in a whole country, but to me that’s still one click of curiosity to my page that one person took the time to check out. And I appreciate it, so thank you and hello to my European friends!

– What to improve on –

I’m trying to step up my postings for 2018, so consistency is something I hope to focus on. I’ve had a steady run for my first year with 25 posts. I honestly didn’t have a number set in mind in terms of hitting any goals. And it averages to about 2 posts per month. Not bad for starters, but there were some months I’d only push out 1 post vs other months I’d push 3-4.

So I want to find a balance and possibly create a schedule. I’ll have to do some testing and see what works best. I’m still learning about my blog and statistics and what would be best for myself and readers. Seeing what topics do very well and what topics to scrap. I’m kind of getting a basic understanding, but I know I’m just at the surface and there’s so much more to dive into!

Cupcake: Le Dolci | Chocolates: Chocollata

– What’s next for Luxe & Loaded? –

More visuals! I was thinking of incorporating videos? Perhaps starting a youtube channel? The ideas are brewing!
Bae got me a major ring light for Christmas and I also got myself a new camera that I’m super excited to try out and start using for my pictures and filming. Plus, lately I’ve been sneaking some short video edits onto my insta feed to test out how I like doing them and audience response. And I can say – I ain’t mad. I actually loved editing and telling stories through video before I got into taking pictures and flatlays for instagram. So this is something I’m excited and hoping to add to Luxe & Loaded.

All in all, I’ve got high hopes for L&L this coming year.

I’m ready to go.

Let’s see what 2018 has in store!

xo
Stephanie

Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!
For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!

January 31, 2018
Happy New Year 2018!

Starting 2018 with my second, first post of a new year!

Did that make sense to you?

It’s basically been about a year since Luxe & Loaded birthed out of these creative fingers and brain. And as we are all settling in after the holiday season, it’s time for the ‘first post of the year’. And this will be my second time at it since we are coming in to L&L’s 1st year anniversary!

So what has happened in 2017?
Like any typical year it was filled with a lot of ups. A lot of downs. And much more shopping. Maybe almost too much – if that’s even possible!

And to sound as cliché as I can possibly get…

I’m expecting big things for 2018.

In all aspects of my life. Personal, career and relationship.

There are going to be a lot of risks taken this year.
A lot of adulting this year.
And definitely a lot of blood, sweat and tears this year.

Minus the blood. Hopefully we don’t need that.
Though, I’m sure plenty of tears, as the beginning of 2018 has already proven. Put it this way – I have a wedding to plan! You feel me?

And even though I am super anxious and nervous for the year ahead, I am also excited and going in head strong and confident.

#GIRLPOWER

And just like last year, you’re welcome to come along on my journey with me. Or as always described on the Bachelor/Bachelorette – this amazing journey.

Which reminds me – I have a new season to get suckered into watching. Better be the most dramatic season yet!

Let’s do this 2018. I’m ready!

xo
Stephanie

Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!
For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!

January 10, 2018
Holiday Savvy: Styling on a Budget

The merry season of Christmas is upon us! And as the countdown to the 25th draws near, it also means that holiday festivities are in full swing.

So whether you have one or five different parties to attend, the shopping expenses can definitely add up this time of year! Specifically for those fashionistas who do not like wearing the same outfit twice. Plus, throw in buying all those presents, the holidays can be really hard on your bank account… but it doesn’t have to be a total debt monster!

I personally don’t mind repeating outfits, especially if they make me feel super chic and confident, but every now and then I have those moments where I go through my closet and feel I have absolutely nothing to wear. I’m sure a lot of you can relate, right?

And when the holiday season rolls around, between work, family and friends, I’m usually attending at least 3 parties. Plus, I had my bff’s wedding last month and ain’t nobody got time, or money, to look for 3 completely different outfits from head to toe.

So here are some tips I used for keeping in style on a budget.

1. Utilize what’s in your closet

Now, I generally have strong will power… when it comes to basically everything, but shopping! Though when money is tight, I’ve learned when to say ‘no’ and when to cash out on what is worth spending. Because it’s important to utilize what’s in your closet – and trust me, there is always something in your closet. So I’ll treat myself to one new item per outfit.

I know my closet has no shortage of purses. And I don’t wear heels on the regular, so I couldn’t justify splurging on a new pair, but when it comes to dresses, I only have options for a summery day or a clubbing night out. I lack in the formal wear department since I don’t go to many weddings or functions. And so, this time I’ll repeat accessories, but treat myself to a new dress.

Dress: Forever 21 price: $44.90 + tax

Dress: Forever 21 price: $22.90 + tax

2. Set a budget – and stick to it!

Once you’ve decided what article of clothing you are treating yourself to – or even if you decide to get a whole new outfit – it’s always good to set a budget! More importantly though, stick to it!

Be reasonable with your pricing. Only you know what you can afford and what would be pushing it. If you only have $50 in your bank account, then maybe charging $250 for a dress on your credit may not be the best idea.

For my friend’s wedding, I limited myself to $40 – give or take $5. I’ve done it once before, so I knew I could do it again. You’d be surprised as to what your options are for your budget. You just gotta be patient, do some digging between clothing racks and send out into the universe that you’re going to find a killer dress, or heels, or bag…etc.

Dress: M. price: $32 + tax (on clearance)

3. Get it on sale

It’s the time of year where everything is on sale!

Come November, if it’s not Friends & Family, it’s Black Friday, then Christmas – and if your holiday party is in the New Year like mine, then my fellow Canadians have Boxing Day. So going shopping during the holiday seasons can be affordable, if you’re smart about it.

I’ve developed a habit of heading straight to the sale section, especially in the stores that are beyond my budget. If it doesn’t have a sale tag, I sometimes don’t even look at it because I don’t want to tempt myself in spending more. And if it so happens you buy an item regular price and the next week it goes on sale, don’t be afraid to go back for a price match! Know your store’s exchange and return policies. A lot of them will be understanding and happy to help. So save your receipts for the duration of the return period just in case you need it.

Also, if you’re a slight gift card hoarder like me, then maybe that $50 visa gift card you got for your birthday may come in handy this time of year.

Earrings: Aldo price: $6.99 + tax (on clearance)

3. Don’t neglect your hair & makeup

If you’re repeating an outfit this year and scared people will remember and give you side eye for being boring, then change the focus from your dress to your face.

I wear makeup on the daily, even if it’s just concealer and mascara, but I put on a full face when I’m going out to a function – and if I have time, I’ll throw in some falsies. I’ll pick a main focus. If I’m usually bare on the eyes, then I’ll go smokey. Or, if I’m neutral on the lip, then I’ll be a little more bold. Draw people’s eye’s to where you want them to look. And same with the hair! If you’re every day best friend is a flat iron, then switch it up and go curly and voluminous. If you’re hair is always in a ponytail, then let it flow.

Lip Pencils: Nars

Eyeshadow Palette: Kiko Milano

4. Add sparkle!

A lot of people are scared of a little sparkle and glitter, but I’m sorry – cuz you know what? It’s the holidays! And what would it be without a little glimmer.

You can do it in so many ways! You can keep it simple and leave it to your jewellery. Frame you face with some earrings. Add a little bling to your necklace or cocktail rings. Even your purse can shine. Or you can go all out by getting your dress, shoes and purse to bling blauw.

(Top) Earrings: Aldo (Bottom) Choker: Forever 21

What are some ways your stay holiday savvy? I’d love to hear them!

Happy Holiday shopping!

xo

Stephanie

Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!

For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!

December 21, 2017
The Best Hot Chocolate I’ve Ever Had

We’re coming up on old man winter, but every coffee chain in town has already released their annual holiday drink menu.

Now, I’m not really a tea or coffee drinker – though I will admit, I lived on 1 euro cappuccinos in Tivoli… but vacations don’t count! And so my go to hot beverage is hot chocolate. After falling in love with the frozen mint hot chocolates from Serendipity 3 in NYC, I’ve been on the hunt for a truly delicious and tummy warming experience.

And I think I found my new favourite spot.

And it’s only an 8 hour plane ride from home – lucky me!

While in Venice earlier this year, we made our way to Piazza San Marco and decided to treat ourselves on our final night there – and let me tell you it was totally worth it! Caffé Florian was a place I had always walked by, but never paid attention to for fear of tourist prices. Because everyone knows things are more expensive at main attractions. And since this café has been around since 1720 and offers a front row seat to Saint Mark’s Cathedral, I wasn’t expecting anything reasonable. Then after stopping to take a look at their display menu and seeing hot chocolates for 10 – 12.50 euros, we thought – ‘why the heck not?’

So we returned in the evening and were seated in a room of complete opulence.

I love world history and there’s always something that leaves me in awe, knowing and wondering who could have sat in the exact same spot as me, some time, hundreds of years ago. Thinking about the conversations or realizations various people had in this very seat. And going through the photos of Caffé Florian, more recently, it could have been anyone from Charlie Chaplin to Andy Warhol, to Ernest Hemingway and Claude Monet, sitting where my own bum sat, drinking this delicious hot chocolate.

At the end of any trip, I’m always left with that feeling of not wanting to go home and get back to my daily reality and routine, but this was the perfect way to end the night. Sitting in Caffé Florian, listening to the live classical music, taking a sip of my hot chocolate with my fiancé by my side. Perfetto.

And then the bill came and you forget that most places charge a sit down fee. So being there in the evening with the live music, plus hot chocolate for 4 people, now turns into just over 71 euros… which is converted to about $110 CAD.

Again, totally worth it.

Would I go back? Of course! I got a mint hot chocolate which was perfectly layered into liquid chocolate with mint cream and chocolate shavings. At first glance, the glass looked extremely small for 12.50 euros, but coming from North America we’re used to bigger sizes. So I thought I was going to be disappointed and unsatisfied, but in the end it was the perfect amount for me to drink. I didn’t want any more, and I didn’t want any less.

And not only was the hot chocolate delicious on its own, but the whole experience together with the atmosphere was truly priceless, and is now added to my happy memories.

Counting down the days until I can visit again.

xo

Stephanie

Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest post.

For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!

December 6, 2017
Casual-tees

I’ve only ever worn t-shirts at home while bumming around. Though lately they’ve become a staple in my every day wardrobe.

Especially when I travel. They’re good on hot days where I can wear them on their own. And they’re good for cold days when the chilly weather calls for layering.
Dress them up, dress them down. Tuck them in, or leave it out… Damn. I feel like I just wrote a line for a song. I may have a #1 in the makings people. You heard it here first!

Sidetracked.

As I was saying…
Now, I have always been a Guess girl. Except, I usually opt for their more obvious girly and fashionable clothing, but I’ll admit they’ve got some nice men’s t-shirts. So it helps when bae has a few casual tees that I can ‘borrow’ – and sometimes keep in my closet. And since I like my t-shirts baggy, and loose fitting, it’s perfect! Sometimes I help him decide what shirts to purchase by deciding what looks good on me. Cuz let’s face it, bae’s wardrobe is my wardrobe. That’s just the rules of the universe.

And as we know, travelling calls for some early mornings. And sometimes deciding what to wear can take up some precious time.

So when in doubt, I go for a simple logo tee. You can’t go wrong with that!

xo
Stephanie

Shirt – Guess

Shirt – Guess

T-Shirt: GUESS
Shorts: Forever 21
Shoes: Nike

T-Shirt: GUESS x A$AP Rocky
Ripped Jeans: Forever 21
Shoes: Superga

November 6, 2017
(Playing) Fashionista in Venezia

A major reason I was uber excited to take this trip to Italy was so I could get new pictures and content for Instagram. We live in a time and age where updating social media and creating great content is absolutely vital when trying to gain or maintain a following. I mean, do it for the gram, right?

Now, I don’t usually plan complete looks when I go on vacation. I kind of throw pieces into my luggage and hope for the best. Most of the time it doesn’t work out – which is the perfect excuse for a shopping break! Though, depending on the itinerary and if there is a special site I’m visiting or activity I’m doing, I may have a special outfit in mind.

For Venice, I had this one unworn floral blouse that’s been sitting in my closet for at least a year – story of my life. And when packing I knew, that was the blouse I wanted to wear for taking pictures in front of San Marco. It just has the perfect flow and aesthetic to match the beauty of the piazza. Pigeons and all.

On our last day there bae and I woke up bright and early and were out the door by 7am. Mission: to get some nice pictures at San Marco while avoiding the loads of tourists that may block my perfect shot.

So it was only fitting that wear my floral blouse and take some OOTD pics.

xo
Stephanie

San Marco

Blouse: Forever 21
Shorts: Forever 21
Shoes: Forever 21
Sunglasses: Givenchy

Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts.
For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!

October 1, 2017
Venice Steals My Heart

There’s something in the air that makes me fall more in love with Venice every time I visit.

Maybe it’s the history. Maybe it’s the culture. Maybe it’s the art or luxury. Or, maybe it’s the sense of mystery you come across as you walk through the narrow streets.

Whatever the reason is, my heart belongs in Venice.

Early morning by the Rialto

I had never stayed there overnight until this past trip. I usually lodge in nearby cities, like Padova or Mestre, but this time around we spent three nights in this beautiful city and I only wish I had done so earlier.

We rented an apartment which was walking distance to the train and bus terminal, so carrying luggage wasn’t such a hassle. Though, going up and down all those bridges, can get annoying. So it was good to have some man power – thanks bae!

It was also very affordable. Three nights split amongst two couples brought the total to around $380 per couple. Which is a steal, since some hotels can charge that a night! Plus, it gave me a chance to pretend I lived there, even if it was for that short period of time.

Morning views ♥

Waking up every morning to a ringing bell tower and terracotta rooftops was a dream. There was a grocery store around the corner from our apartment so we were able to make breakfast in our straight out of IKEA catalogue kitchen. And with the all day outings, it was convenient to be able to walk home instead of racing against time because you had catch a train back to your hotel.

Saving Venice for last was the perfect way to end our trip. It is inevitably one of my favourite cities I’ve visited and continues to steal a piece of my heart every time I go.

Check below for a few pics I snapped!

xo

Stephanie

Venetian masks

Venetian masks

The Rialto

Piazza San Marco

San Marco

Piazza San Marco

Views of the Gran Canale from the Rialto Bridge

My spirit animal. If only I had room in my luggage to bring you home!

Tip: If you want to capture moments with as few people as possible, then go early mornings. We made our way over the Rialto to Piazza San Marco before 8am. There were already people there, but most tour groups were present by 9am. So I was able to to get some nice solo shots and OOTD photos which you will see in an upcoming post. Stay tuned!

Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!

For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!

September 5, 2017
Hiking to the Heavens

I’m not one for camping, but I don’t mind going on a nature hike every once in a while. Especially when the views are gorgeous, it’s totally worth the climb.

Now, in Tivoli, there’s a cross that sits on top of a hill that overlooks the town. And I always see it from the train station, but never thought it was reachable. Until one year I went hiking up that trail with my dad and bae. We took a wrong turn and didn’t end up at the top, but after seeing the view, I told myself that next time I’m getting all the way to the cross.

And that I did.

It’s quite the hike since I’m no mountain climber and definitely wasn’t wearing the right shoes (bad moment to break in my new Keds!), but after following the marked path, we reached the croce.

Happy with my accomplishment, it was nice to sit down and soak it all in. There was something humbling about the experience because sitting below the cross were a bunch of papers with hand-written prayer intentions. It made me feel almost connected to those people because even though their home is halfway across the world from mine, we’re all still human and experience the same feelings of life, love and loss.

prayers from Tivoli

prayers from Tivoli

As bae was off shooting a music video with my brother-in-law, it gave me time to take some photos and really appreciate the scenery in front of me. And I don’t know if I was just on a vacation high, or reading some of the prayers, but I swear I had an epiphany. There’s something about being away from home and engulfing myself in a different culture that allows me time to reflect and be stress free, just for a moment.

The past year has been a little difficult for me. Especially from last summer to the first couple of months of 2017. I lost my grandmother and pet chinchilla within 2 months of each other last year. My grandmother had been living with my family on and off since I was about 5. And my chinchilla was my first pet that I had for almost 10 years. So it was really hard to cope, but I had to push through those feelings because there were so many other things happening around me that I didn’t have time to pause and actually mourn.

So I put it aside. I focused on other things like work, because I was hopeful and holding out for a position that I thought I was a candidate for. After months of being told to be patient, and applying and going through the interviewing process two separate times, I didn’t get it.

And that crushed me.

I was so overwhelmed with disappointment that all those feelings I bottled up were starting to surface and I broke.

I desperately needed to get away. I needed a break. So I was counting the days until my trip. And it really helped. Plus, something major happened on this trip that I’ll go into more details in future posts, but I’m thankful I had the opportunity to travel and refresh my mind. And being at the top of Tivoli looking down made me realize I am so small in this world. I can’t wait or count on others to tell me my worth. I have to do it for myself. Appreciate myself. Believe in myself and what I want to accomplish in this life. It’s not going to come easy. I have to work for what I want. Maybe harder than others, but I don’t want to waste anymore time. I don’t want to be stuck in a place just going through the motions. I want to start living my best life, so I can experience more moments like I did climbing to the top of that cross.

The pictures don’t really do it justice, but here are some of the photos I took looking down upon Tivoli.

xo

Stephanie

Tivoli

Tivoli

August 13, 2017
A Sucker for Sunsets

There’s something about a sunset that’s so calming and peaceful. Watching the way the blue sky changes colours within seconds. Blending and intertwining with one another without separation as if they all fit together perfectly. So picturesque.

Though, what I love most about a sunset is the moment the sun touches the horizon. It makes me think it’s something attainable. That if I were to quickly run to the ends of the earth, I’d be able to reach out and feel it with just the tip of my finger… but then I remember that’s impossible because the earth is round. And the earth and sun are in space. And space is infinite. Which freaks the crap out of me. Because how that is possible?!… No? Only me having those thoughts? Anyways!

So I stop thinking about it and come back down to earth.

One of my favourite places to see the sun set in Tivoli is at the Panoramica. Just at the top of these 75 steps from my dad’s house, it’s a long walkway covered by trees to one side, but the other side overlooks all the towns below since Tivoli sits on top of a hill.

And so, watching the sun set here is something I always look forward to. It gives me a moment to pause whatever I’m doing or, wherever I’m going, and just admire.

Here are some of the moments I caught from my most recent trip.

xo

Stephanie

La Panoramica

Sunset in Tivoli

Sunset in Tivoli

Sunset in Tivoli

July 2, 2017
Home Away From Home

I grew up with the privilege of having travel bugs for parents. We haven’t been all over the world, but I’ve been lucky enough to have visited some amazing cities and experience different cultures.

Though, one place that will always be a second home to me is my father’s hometown of Tivoli. He was the only one of his family to have moved abroad and so we go back to visit when we can.

Situated just east of Rome, it’s a lovely town that sits on top of a hill filled, with ancient history, picturesque views and a lively community. Plus, the gelato at every corner is a total bonus!

Here are some moments from my recent visit. Enjoy!

xo
Stephanie

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

Tivoli

*Note: All photos were taken by me and mostly captured during the early mornings.

June 25, 2017