GROOM GAME STRONG

It’s no secret that I have an affinity for fine grooming products. I genuinely believe that in order to be your best, you must look it as well. There is something about the act of “getting ready” that I find immensely therapeutic and many consider it an act of self care.

Walmart recently introduced an elevated selection of grooming products for men and the offering is next level. With Summer over, it’s time to start lathering on the moisturizer and leave in conditioner. I was particularly impressed with the Neutrogena Triple Protect Men’s Face Lotion with SPF 20 & the V76 Grooming Cream with Ultralight hold (there’s nothing worse than having crunchy hair.)

I curated a full range of products that will have you looking like a million bucks below! I recommend using the products in this order to achieve the best results:

1. Hop in the shower and use the Old Spice Swagger 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner. Wash thoroughly and rinse

2. Apply the Cantu Shea Butter Men’s Collection Leave in Conditioner and leave on for the duration of the shower. Rinse out at the end.

3. Scrub yourself down using the V76 by Vaugn Detox Bar Soap for Men.

4. Make sure your using hot water for this next step as it opens pores: apply a dollop of the Neutrogena Men Daily Invigorating Foaming Gel Face Wash and rinse with cold water.

5. Hop out of the shower, dry off and slather your face using the Neutrogena Triple Protect Men’s Face Lotion

6. Towel/ Blow dry hair and use Harry’s Hair Putty for a sophisticated, texturized look.

LA LIVING WITH DELL

After 3 months away from home, I’m finally easing back into life on the west coast. While my time abroad was nothing short of spectacular, it was time to come home and sip some green juice.

Before the summer tour kicked off, I spent a day playing tourist in my own city with Dell. We kicked off the day with a presentation at the ultra swanky Ace Hotel downtown, where I gave a demonstration to a group of content creators on best practices! We also got a sneak peak look at the new Dell XPS 2-in-1, and let me tell you it’s one of their products to date.

Having ditched my Macbook back in January for the Dell XPS 13, I’ve really come to understand what an exceptional piece of technology the XPS 13 is. When it comes to laptops, Dell doesn’t force you to make the sacrifice between portability and power. Facts are facts, and if you want something powerful you need a clunky Macbook Pro. On the other end of the spectrum, if you want portability you need a Macbook Air which does literally nothing.

I’m tough on my computers, there’s hundreds of high res photos, videos, editing programs etc. I’ve never once had my Dell XPS 13 slow down or freeze on me. In addition, the Dell XPS offers a touch screen which is truly life changing. In my freelance photography work, clients have loved being able to zoom in on images and change the orientation when I’m tethered.

After our product demonstration we were off to Malibu for a day under the California Sun. We lunched like true ladies of Malibu on the rooftop of the Surf Rider and rounded out the afternoon at the Malibu Wine Safari.

Working with Dell this year has been such a dream, their product, team, customer service is all top notch. It’s really made me feel like a fool for trusting any other technology company.

In closing, Apple—you’re cancelled. xo

LIVING THE SUITE LIFE

Having grown up in Los Angeles, I’ve always had the privilege of being a short drive to the desert, mountains, and the sea. As a proud Taurus, I’m not shy about my appreciation of luxury—so you can imagine the excitement of discovering all my luxurious desires could be fulfilled two hours outside of LA at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar.

The trip kicked off in true Fairmont style with a helicopter ride out of Santa Monica. After a breezy 45 minutes, we landed on their elegant golf and hit the greens with one of their PGA-certified instructors. I don’t want to brag—but I slayed the driving range and suddenly contemplated a career in professional golf (kidding.)

After this, the tone was set, and what followed suit did not disappoint. From lavish five course meals near the pool, meditating in the rose garden, and a heavenly spa treatment, I found myself thinking, “Why haven’t I done this sooner?!” Every inch of the 400-acre property was majestic and awe-inspiring. The Tuscan style architecture and close proximity to the ocean were the perfect catalysts to unwind and let go of life’s worries. Between the scenery, immaculate accommodations, and the stellar food and beverage program, it’s no wonder the hotel holds the rank as the #1 luxury hotel in California on TripAdvisor.

Here’s the tea—and it’s hot—the Fairmont Grand Del Mar currently has a slew of deals this summer that can take your stay to new heights. Click the link HERE to unapologetically live your best life.

RESORT LIVING

When it comes to resort wear, men’s options are far and few between. I’m constantly in search of breezy cotton button downs & swimwear that you can pair together without looking like a dad on vacation.

In the off chance you do find something to pack in your suitcase for a summer getaway, the items usually lack style and a proper fit. Enter Bonobos, the e-commerce driven retailer that made a business out of menswear solutions. The company came to fruition because the founders couldn’t find pants that fit. They found that trousers were either too tight or too boxy, so they fixed it. They’ve expanded their playbook to shirts, suits and now resort wear.

For a recent trip down south, I paired the Riviera Short Sleeve with the Banzai Boardie swim short. Each item came in at under $100.00 and I was pleasantly surprised by the impeccable fit & quality. The light, airy fabric of the shirt made the 80+ degree weather bearable and the shorts made for a seamless transition from lunch to the pool.