The Best of 2020 (and my favorites so far in 2021)

Wedding photo cred goes to T&V Photography!

I’d guess most of the human population has purchased negative 2020 swag (coffee mugs, tshirts, etc.) and I will admit to having been tempted. However crazy the past year has been, there have still been many blessings along the way. George and I decided to build a house (and officially became homeowners!), we were able to visit with friends + family (slower paces of life meant strengthening relationships), we picked up new hobbies (golf, tennis and drinking pina coladas), we celebrated our engagement and GOT MARRIED (NYE 2020)! This past year was one for the history books and certainly one for our memory books.

And, of course, along the way, there were a couple of favorites that stood out. Be it accessory, recipe, travel experience or digital phenomenon, I wanted to share some of my stars.

2020 favorites (and favorites of 2021 … so far)

30-Minute Thai Peanut Chicken and Ramen. This recipe makes me feel like a 5-star chef for incredibly little effort. Your ideal dinner situation. Try ist ASAP.

Straw Sun Visor. This feminine roll-up sun visor has to be one of my most-worn pieces of 2020. We were able to spend a considerable amount of time at the pool and the beach, so shade was necessary. I love how easy it is to pack and how fabulous it makes you feel!

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. This author is one of my favorites, and her Alaskan-tale will not dissapoint. Two strong female characters lean on each other in the Alaskan wilderness. I could hardly put the book down. And now I’m planning an Alaskan excursion.

The Away Travel Backpack. I had been toting around my 2011 NorthFace backpack to all of my work events and decided it was finally time for an upgrade. This backpack is stunning. Not only incredibly sleek, but built for the modern day traveller. The computer pocket has extra padding, it interior has tons of different compartments for organizing your items, sturdy (won’t catch) zippers and it doesn’t slouch when you set it on the ground (which happens to be one of my favorite things about it).

Ladder Back Wood Arm Chair. We added these Studio McGee-inspired chairs to our living room for additional seating and WE LOVE THEM. They’re exactly what we needed to complete our seating arrangement. Building our house (and making it a home!) was definitely a highlight of 2020.

Our semi-impromptu beach trips. George and I live 3 hours from 30A (full 30A travel guide) and 5 hours from Hilton Head. We were lucky enough to visit the beach a couple of times during the summer of 2020. AND - I was able to celebrate my bachelorette on 30A along with some of my best girls. Click here for what’s in my beach bag!

This long-sleeved sleep shirt with my new monogram! I’ve loved wearing it while getting ready with my bridesmaids and have been wearing it nonstop.

Unlocking Us Podcast by Brene Brown. This is definitely one of my 2020 favorites and will continue to be a favorite in 2021. Brene shares such great insight with her listeners on human psychology in modern times AND is truly a captivating speaker.

OV’s Exercise Dress. I received one for my birthday last year and loved it so much I purchased a second color. I LIVED IN THIS DRESS during the summer months. You could even through a sweater over your shoulders and wear it into the fall. Guarenteed you’ll be just as obsessed as I am …

Our wedding (of course!!!). More to come on NYE 2020!! #TheresHopeforGeorge

My new monogram printed on this gorgeous blush-colored clutch. I wore this bag all during wedding week and it’s my new favorite accessory.

Our staycation at the Heritage House. George and I spent a night in this gorgeous B&B right before our honeymoon and were floored by the experience. Definitely a fond memory to start off 2021.

I hope you have some fond memories of 2020 as you reflect back on the year. And I hope 2021 brings you all new blessings. Cheers!