2024 South Carolina State Fair | 46 Reasons to Celebrate SC

The South Carolina State Fair is back for another year, and we couldn’t be more excited! However, quite a few things have changed, but no fear, here is what you need to know! 

The fair takes place in Columbia, South Carolina, and this year’s theme is 46 Reasons to Celebrate SC - highlighting the 46 counties! It is the largest fair in the state and one of the largest in the Southeast. The fair features a variety of attractions, including rides, games, food, and exhibits.

Dates: The 2024 South Carolina State Fair will be held from October 9-20.
Location: The fair is located at 1200 Rosewood Drive, Columbia, SC 29201.

New This Year:

Electronic ride wristbands 

$1 processing fee for debit or credit cards

No sand sculpture - I was really sad to see that it wasn’t there.

New Youth Policy 

Tickets: Discount Online & Circle K: $15 (tickets can be used any one day the fair is open, weekdays or weekends)

At The Gate:

• General Admission (ages 6-54): $20

• 0-5 years old: Free

• Seniors (55 and older): $15 ($5 on Wed., Oct. 16)

Ride Tickets

Online & Circle K: $40 

Vouchers can be used any one day the fair is open, weekdays or weekends.

Weekdays at the fair (Mon-Thur): $40

Weekends at the fair (Fri-Sun): $42

sc state fair swings

Attractions: The fair features a variety of attractions, including:

• Rides: The fair has a variety of rides for all ages, and separated into two sections: Kiddie Land and Major Land.

• Games: The fair has a variety of games for all ages, including midway games, arcade games, and skill games.

• Food: The fair has all of your traditional favorites with a few new items: The Korean Corn Dog, Mr. Seafood, Deep Fried Tacos and so much more!

• Exhibits: The fair has a variety of exhibits, including educational exhibits, agricultural exhibits, and arts and crafts exhibits.

Special Events: The fair also features a variety of special events, including:

• Concerts: The fair has a variety of concerts, featuring both local and national acts.

• Contests: The fair has a variety of contests, including livestock contests, baking contests, and talent contests.

• Shows: FREE Circus and Petting Zoo 

Tips for Attending the Fair:

• Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

• Wear comfortable shoes.

• Take breaks throughout the day to rest and avoid getting overheated.

• Have a plan for where you want to go and what you want to see.

• Bring cash for some vendors.

The South Carolina State Fair is a fun and exciting event for people of all ages. Whether you're looking for rides, games, food, or exhibits, you can find something to enjoy at the fair.

2024 Charleston Food and Wine Festival | Know Before You Go

Image by perry mcleod

Spring is almost here, and that means it's festival season! One of the biggest events to hit South Carolina is back another year - the Charleston Food and Wine Festival and I’m excited to be a part of it and take you along with me!

The Charleston Food and Wine festival is an annual culinary extravaganza that celebrates the rich culinary heritage and vibrant food scene of Charleston, South Carolina. Held over five days in March (March 6-10, 2024), the festival brings together renowned chefs, winemakers, and food enthusiasts from around the world to showcase their talents and share their passion for food and wine.

Friendly Tip: Wear comfortable shoes!

The festival offers diverse events and experiences for food lovers of all tastes. From intimate wine tastings and cooking demonstrations to grand tasting events and chef showcases, there is something for everyone to enjoy. As a new foodie, I’m looking forward to expanding my palate and meeting new people. 

Limited tickets are available now.

Image by Lawson Builder

Highlights of the Festival

• Grand Tasting: This signature event of the festival features over 100 restaurants and wineries from the Lowcountry and beyond, offering attendees the opportunity to sample a wide variety of culinary delights.

• Cooking Demonstrations: Renowned chefs share their culinary secrets and techniques in interactive cooking demonstrations, providing attendees with hands-on experience and inspiration for their own kitchens.

• Wine Tastings: Wine enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of wine tastings, featuring both local and international wines from renowned wineries.

• Celebrity Chef Dinners: Exclusive dinners hosted by celebrity chefs offer a unique opportunity to experience the culinary artistry of some of the world's most talented chefs.

• Educational Seminars: The festival also offers educational seminars and workshops on a range of food and wine-related topics, providing attendees with the opportunity to learn from experts in the field.

KATRINA S CRAWFORD PHOTOGRAPHY

In addition to its culinary offerings, the Charleston Food and Wine Festival is known for its warm Southern hospitality and vibrant atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy live music, art exhibitions, and other entertainment throughout the festival, making it a truly immersive experience.

A Must-Attend Event for Food Lovers

The Charleston Food and Wine Festival is a must-attend event for food lovers and anyone who enjoys new experiences. With its diverse range of events and experiences, the festival offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a local foodie or a visitor to Charleston, the Charleston Food and Wine Festival is the perfect opportunity to indulge in the culinary delights of the South.

Important Notes: 

21+ to enter; bring valid ID

Clear bag policy in effect 

Shuttle service is available at an additional cost

The Best Wedding Travel Destinations, Ranked

Have you ever wondered where the best wedding travel destinations in the world are? Well, you’re about to find out. In this post, we take a look at some of the most spectacular locations around the world to tie the knot (and have a great time sightseeing, too!) When I think about my wedding day, I wouldn’t mind heading to one of these places with only a few of my friends to celebrate our love.

Italy

France used to be the romance capital of the world, but today, it’s Italy. Located in the Mediterranean, this country oozes charm and sophistication from practically every orifice (if that isn’t too graphic for you). There are locations galore, whether you want a posh event in Venice or something more laid back and rustic in Tuscany. 

You’re never short of a photo opportunity in Italy, either. Everywhere from Lake Garda to the Amalfi coast is stunning. And if you’re lucky, you might also brush shoulders with some of the many celebrities who like to frequent the area, including George and Amal Clooney, British billionaire and all-round boffin Richard Branson, John Legend, and Chrissy Teigen. 

Dominican Republic

If you want a tropical wedding a little closer to home, you might also consider getting hitched in the Dominican Republic. This island is a favorite of brides and grooms looking for a big place where they can really explore and stretch their legs. 

The nice thing about this location is the well-oiled hotels and hospitality industry. The entire island is geared towards making you feel comfortable and facilitating your stay. If there’s something your guests need, they’ll get it. 

What’s more, it’s an under-the-radar wedding ceremony location. Hardly anyone knows about it, which means you often have a choice of the most spectacular venues. 

New Jersey

New Jersey is another popular travel destination for couples tying the knot, thanks to its central location on the East Coast and fabulous wedding catering options. Couples go here when they want a convenient venue for their families and friends but access to the big cities and everything they offer. 

Ireland

Ireland is another increasingly popular location for couples looking to get married, thanks to its emerald-green landscape and inspiring gothic castles. Outside Dublin, much of the countryside remains utterly unspoiled. It only takes a few minutes from the airport to see the country in all its glory and splendor. 

Another Ireland feature that might appeal to some couples is the emptiness of the place. You can walk for miles down quiet country roads and never meet another soul. There are beautiful mountains, lakes and valleys, stunning oceanfront cliffs, and plenty of pubs to crawl in the big towns when the ceremony is over. Plus, it’s now one of the wealthiest countries in Europe, thanks to massive foreign investment and a healthy tax rate. 

Thailand

Finally, we have Thailand. It’s been a destination for American couples for many years. Despite the long flight to get there, the country offers a tropical paradise like no other, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. What’s more, it’s cheap. Flying everyone out there might actually save you money compared to staying home.

Tips for Solo Traveling with Anxiety

I love to travel, but I rarely do it alone. I took my first solo flight to Minneapolis recently, which was interesting. This was the first time I had flown in 10 years and by myself - yikes! I’ve struggled with anxiety for many years, but it has recently gotten worse. Hearing about all the terrible happenings in the news and around us causes me stress. I tend to be highly cautious. Here are a few tips to help me during my travels.

Well, what is anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal part of life. We all experience it from time to time, but people, like myself that suffer from chronic anxiety or an anxiety disorder have these feelings more often than others. They can cause panic, interfere with everyday activities, and are hard to control. Some symptoms can include feeling nervous, restless, or tense, a sense of danger, hyperventilation, sweating, and trouble sleeping, amongst several other things. It looks different for everyone.

Tips for Solo Traveling With Anxiety

While I’m not a medical professional, here are some things that worked for me.

Create A Plan

Do you know what triggers you? If so, write down a plan, and research your destination. Let your family or friends know where you’re going. Share your location with someone you trust, and don’t let others know you’re alone.

Learn what helps you to feel safe and put those things into practice. That meant getting to the airport early and researching where I would drop my car off and pick it up—knowing which gates to use and finding all available information about the airport so I would feel completely prepared.

Medication or Essential Oils

Everyone has their way of treating their anxiety; whether you choose medication or natural alternatives such as essential oils, make sure you have these readily available. Your oils must be in a TSA-approved bag, but I would use them before boarding your flight.

For me, I take a daily antidepressant and anxiety medication that can help me during a panic attack. Since I knew I would be flying and traveling to a large airport, I opted to take my anxiety medication. This helped to keep me calm while navigating the unknown.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

I have a pair of Beats and I love them. I put on my headphones and turn on a calming playlist to help me stay in tune with myself. I like white noise and rainforest sounds. It helps more than you know. This is a great time to practice breathing exercises.

A wired option like this is also great if you don’t want to burn your headphone battery.

Book or Tablet

I’m an iPad girl. It's rare that I don’t have it with me. I recently grabbed a keyboard for my iPad Air so that I could type while in flight. It was great. I know that if I can’t close my eyes due to paranoia, I have to be active, and this was perfect. I started a brain dump of all the things I wanted to write about and my plans for the blog. It was great getting it out there.

A book is also another great option. If you’re an avid reader or even a newbie, get a book, it will help you take your mind off what’s happening around you.

Relax

There isn’t much you can do when you aren’t the one in control. I prayed with my family before leaving home. I prayed when I got on the plane and prayed when we landed. 

If you’ve done all of the things mentioned above, you’re good to go! Life just be lifin’ and there is nothing that we can do about it. Like the old Benjamin Franklin said, “If You Fail to Plan, You Are Planning to Fail.” 

*Possible Tip - Upgrade your seat if you’re flying. My husband switched me to first class because he knows my fear of being around a lot of people and feeling uncomfortable. While the extra room was great, and the perks of boarding first made a difference, I’m not sure I’ll do it again. 

Safe travels, friend! Let me know if you found this helpful. 

Family Day at Eudora Farms - Wild Safari Park

One of our New Year’s resolutions was to plan more family dates, and what better way to start than a trip to our local petting zoo, Eudora Farms, also known as Eudora Wildlife Safari Park in Salley, SC. The kids and I visited about two years ago when my son was into cows, but he ended up not enjoying the experience as much as I hoped he would. For the last few weeks, he’s been asking to see the animals, so off we go!

Eudora Farms is a drive-thru safari filled with exotic animals! Located just outside Columbia, SC, you’ll head to the countryside for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! You can purchase your tickets online or pay at the gate. At that time, you’ll be able to buy food to feed the animals - DO NOT bring food to feed the animals.

We were also given a guide listing animals and descriptions for each.

It’s entirely up to you how engaged you wish to be with the animals. Some people ride through and look, while others bring a pick-up truck and sit on the back to pet the animals. We got our whole gang and let our littlest one sit in the front to access a window for feeding. 

girl feeding cows

Tips for Visiting Eudora Farms

Pack Wipes and Hand Sanitizer

If you plan to feed the animals, you will want to wipe your hands after petting. Some animals will have dirt and drool you want to wash off. There is a handwashing station before you exit located near the outdoor park area, along with portable restrooms.

Honk if you need help!

Thankfully, we’ve never had to do this but only honk if you need the assistance of a staff member. The animals will eventually move as you drive. 

No petting or feeding the Zebras.

While Zebras are cute, they are unpredictable. Please do not feed them or pet them. Once you go through the second gate, you’ll see many of them. I had the kids roll up the windows to avoid engaging with them.

Beware of the Camels and Ostriches

I never expected camels to be so aggressive, but they are! These camels are friendly but hungry; they will come to your car in a heartbeat and stick their head through the window - no personal space! The ostriches bite, so be careful, and they can run. 

Visit the walk-around petting zoo.

You will need to make a right into the parking lot to access this portion of the park. They have a few animals that you can pet and feed. It’s a pleasant experience if you want to get out and enjoy an up-close visit. 

If you enjoy animals or want something fun to do, check out Eudora Farms! You can check out our video visit here!

Eudora Farms

219 Salem Lane, Salley, SC 

803.606.6325

Hours:

Monday – Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm; 

Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm. 

Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day 

• Admission is $18-$45 per car, depending on the number of people.

• Food for the animals is $5 a bucket

• (Prices subject to change)

• Check Eudora Farms Facebook page for daily operating updates.

Family Fun at the South Carolina State Fair 2022

Food, family, and fun is what the South Carolina State Fair is all about! I was delighted to be able to return after my previous visit in 2019 and it didn’t disappoint. The fair comes once a year, usually in mid-October; the current dates are October 12-23, 2022 - so hurry if you haven’t been. This year was made even sweeter because I had the chance to bring my son, he was too little in 2019.

I go to the fair with a game plan - I must get my Fiske fries (add the vinegar of course), footlong corn dog, pizza, and a funnel cake! I need them all!

The fair offers a wide variety of things to do no matter your age! You can make a full day out of your visit if you plan it properly! I recommend going early, this provides you with the most time and flexibility to fit in different things. There is a FREE Circus that happens daily that is already included with your admission ticket. This year we were able to catch a few live performances - amazing! 

Bantu Wizards

We stayed for about 4 hours and didn’t get to do it all BUT the kids had a blast! I plan to sneak in another visit to take in the night scenery. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience at nighttime and makes the perfect date night idea. The ride voucher (wristbands) proved to be the best option for my family. It allows them to ride as much as they liked without having to repurchase coupons. The kid’s section has a lot of rides, perfect for ages 6 and under - my son had a blast while the older kids were able to enjoy the other rides.

Overall, we had an amazing time. I remember visiting the SC State Fair when I was a little and all of the memories I made there with my family, now it’s my turn to make a few of my own!

Be safe and have lots of fun!  

Helpful Information to plan for your visit:

Online & Circle K: $15 (tickets can be used any day the fair is open, weekdays or weekends)

At The Gate:

• General Admission (ages 6-54): $20

• 0-5 years old: Free

• Seniors (55 and older): $15

During the Fair (Oct. 12 – 23)

Online & Circle K: $35 (Tickets can be used any day the fair is open, weekdays or weekends)

Weekdays (Mon-Thur): $35 (at the fair)

Weekends (Fri-Sun): $38 (at the fair)

Ride Coupons (For purchase at fairgrounds): 

1 Coupon: $1.50 

20 Coupons: $25  

50 Coupons: $60  

Each ride takes 3-6 coupons

Midway Express Access Pass: $15 

• Grants access to the front of every ride line. Purchase at specially marked ticket booths around the fairgrounds. 

• Rider must be present in order to purchase.

Escape to Paradise: voco St. Augustine, Florida

This post is sponsored by IHG Hotels and Resorts but all views expressed are my own.

Quality time is one of my top love languages and getting the opportunity to surprise my husband with a romantic getaway for his birthday was the icing on the cake for me! We visited the beautiful city of St. Augustine, Florida, located just 4.5 hours out of Columbia, South Carolina. St. Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the United States with a rich history and offers many opportunities for exploring.  

We opted to lodge at the voco located in the Historic District just a few miles after crossing the beautiful drawbridge. The hotel is even better in person with a unique design - from the outside, it looks like a private cruise ship with a rooftop area for you to catch city views. You can expect a quiet stay with only two floors and less than 200 rooms! The name voco, which means ‘to invite’ and ‘call together,’ originates from Latin, representing the brand’s thoughtful and playful nature and ability to offer meaningful connection.  in the Historic District just a few miles after crossing the beautiful drawbridge. The hotel is even better in person with a unique design - from the outside, it looks like a private cruise ship with a rooftop area for you to catch city views. You can expect a quiet stay with only two floors and less than 200 rooms! The name voco, which means ‘to invite’ and ‘call together,’ originates from Latin, representing the brand’s thoughtful and playful nature and ability to offer meaningful connection.  

Amenities

Like most IHG Hotels and Resorts, voco has a business center. There is also a gym, rooftop pool, and bar on-site! The hotel design is very modern and luxurious - I love how the rich navy blue and gold pair together in their branding!  

We spent a few hours hanging out on the rooftop, enjoying the views and relaxing in the pool - this space is truly top-notch! 

Rooms 

I love a good room! On most vacations, I spend time outside the hotel, so it doesn’t matter about the room. My main focus is that it is comfortable and in a good location for my desired attractions. This time, I got both; a great place and an even better room! The layout was very open and clean, with a comfortable bed and walk-in shower! I enjoyed the personal touches of having water readily available for free! 

On Saturday morning, we woke up to live music from neighboring restaurants - it was a treat!  

Attractions 

There is so much to do in St. Augustine, and the hotel is centrally located so that you can do it all! Spend a day at the beach (Vilano Beach or St. Augustine Beach) as we did, take a trip to the Alligator Farm, or even hit Anastasia State Park to see all the exciting wildlife. There are trolley rides and guided tours in the area for all the history buffs.  

Dining 

Foodies rejoice! You will not be disappointed by the options of food in the area. There are several restaurants within walking distance that you can enjoy or simply take a short drive over the bridge for more options, but there is something for everyone and every occasion.  

Overall, we had a fantastic time, and I can’t wait to return! It’s a great escape that’s not too far of a drive from our local area! On our next visit, I plan to stay an extra day to enjoy more tourist attractions. 

The Middleton's Take Carowinds - Spring 2022

Spending time with my family is always the best and enjoying a trip to Carowinds was the perfect idea to end the kid's spring break - they were totally surprised. For over 45 years, Carowinds has been right at the heart of where the Carolinas come together. Located off I-77 (Exit 90) at the NC/SC border, offers a full day of fun for everyone. Kids love to let loose at Camp Snoopy. Thrill-seekers flock to our astounding collection of world-class rides, including the new Copperhead Strike, the Carolinas’ first double-launch coaster. During the Summer months, you’re able to splash, slide, and chill at Carolina Harbor Waterpark is included with admission. 

Lodging 

This year, we opted to stay on-site at the SpringHill Suites Charlotte and it was the best decision ever. We were within walking distance of the park and we could easily drive over as well. This made it easy for members of our group to take a car back to the hotel while the remainder of us stayed at the park. 

We opted for 2-rooms with double beds and a trundle bed in each room. The rooms are laid out with families in mind. The shower/tub combo is separated from the restroom allowing showers to continue without interruption! Each room can sleep 6-7 people comfortably. They even offer a complementarity breakfast #MomWin

State Line Celebration

All-new for 2022, Carowinds introduced the State Line Celebration and it was a hit. There was live music and when you purchase a tasting card you had the opportunity to try Carolina cuisine from both North and South Carolina. The tasting sizes were filling and I was pleased with every selection. I really hope they bring this back next year!

Park 

Friendly Tip: Purchase all of your items needed for a successful visit ahead of time. You can typically find discounts online. (i.e. souvenir cups, Fun Pix, food passes, etc.)

Splitting the park into two visits proved to be great for us. We head straight for Camp Snoopy to allow the younger kids to ride before heading to the bigger rides. They were able to ride as many times as they wanted without a long wait. They really enjoyed the Flying Ace Balloon Race and Woodstock Express! We were able to take a quick break to eat and allow them to ride for a while longer before they tired out. 

The younger kids went back to the hotel with my mom (she’s always a lifesaver while traveling) and the rest of us headed back to the park for round 2. Maneuvering without the littles was a breeze and we were able to enjoy rides that I have never ridden in all of my visits past! Afterburn, Intimidator, and the Hurler were some of our favorites, we can’t wait to go back and ride again. There were a few rides that will be opening later this year and I can’t wait to go back and ride.

Downloading their mobile app was extremely helpful in navigating the park. I was able to find rides that I didn’t know were there and see projected wait times. 

Friendly Tip: When traveling as a large family coordinate outfits for easy finding. If possible, have 2-3 children per adult.

If you’re planning a trip to the Carolinas, I highly recommend taking a visit to Carowinds. The ticket pricing is the best I’ve seen for what you get to enjoy at the park. In the summer, you really are getting the most bang for your buck by being able to visit both parks. Be sure to follow Carowinds on social media and visit their website for frequent updates. 

Carolina Harbor (waterpark) opens on May 27, 2022, for the season! 

Parents Night Out with Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charlotte - South End

This post is sponsored by IHG Hotels and Resorts, all opinions are my own.

As busy working parents, my husband and I enjoy any time we can take to get away and just be adults! This time we had plenty to celebrate! We ventured not far from home to Charlotte, NC to celebrate our 1 year wedding anniversary! We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charlotte - South End. This hotel was everything we were looking for and more in a quiet weekend getaway!

The hotel is located in the South End of Charlotte, NC nestled in an up-and-coming area filled with new builds. There are a lot of bars and restaurants within a 5-mile radius - plenty for all to enjoy. The Bank of America Stadium is only a mile away and the Spectrum Center is within two miles - great for all of the sports fans.

There are several things that win me over when it comes to great lodging. Location, amenities, and comfort! The Holiday Inn Express & Suites hit the mark for all of them. In a central location not far from the heart of the city you can get anywhere. The hotel sits on the corner and can be easily seen if you’re new to town. With balcony rooms and outdoor patios, you can enjoy a nice view and local brew from the market located in the lobby. Their fitness center is perfect to maintain your fitness routine with the basic needs to feel the burn. The spacious rooms are perfect for unwinding and the beds are so comfortable - no need for an alarm because your body will want to sleep in. Complimentary Express Start® was ready when we were! There were so many breakfast items to choose from - even for the picky eaters like myself.

I honestly have no complaints! Checking in was a breeze, I was able to do so, via their online system a day ahead and was sent an email confirmation when our room was ready. The view outside of our room was amazing! I enjoyed waking up to the city streets! For my foodie friends, Charlotte, NC is your playground! We can’t wait to come back and visit other local restaurants and we will be staying here again. We enjoyed a quick bite at STIR Charlotte! The food was delicious and not far from the hotel - located in 5 minutes. The restaurant has an open kitchen bar concept. They specialize in craft cocktails. 

*Important Note: This hotel still has safety measures in place to keep you and your family safe against COVID-19 by mask-wearing, protective shields at check-in and high contact areas, and being wiped frequently. 

As summer travel creeps upon us, consider booking with IHG Hotels and Resorts with 100s of locations in tourist locations providing accommodations for every need! 

Helpful Tips to Plan Your Wedding Abroad

Getting married is a trend that is certainly on the rise right now. If you feel as though you want to take that next step, then this guide will help you to make sure that you do not overlook any special details while also helping you to make the most out of things such as choosing your venue and even your destination.

Source: Pexels (CC0 License)

Choose your Destination

If you have wanted to get married abroad for quite some time, then you may have a list of all your ideal destinations. That being said, you need to start thinking about the type of wedding you want to have too. Do you want things to be traditional or do you want them to be very stripped back and informal? If you can think about things such as this, then you may find that you are able to give yourself the experience that you have been dreaming of all this time. If you are set on a beach wedding, then it is vital that you plan it according to the climate at that time of the year. For example, you do not want to have a beach wedding if it is monsoon season.

Check Legalities

When you have the destination pinned down, you then need to check to see if the marriage is going to be recognised legally. In a lot of countries, the answer would be yes. You should however get in touch with whatever embassy you need, in advance to make sure. You have to make sure that the marriage is going to be legal in your chosen country as well as the country you live in. If you want to make the most out of your wedding, then consider hiring people who are local to the area to play your wedding. This could be a DJ with PartySounds if you live in Australia, or it could be a caterer who is in New York if that is your wedding destination. If you can think about things like this, then you’ll find it easier than ever to get the best result overall.

Find a Venue

When you are set on wherever you can get legally married, you then need to take the time to find the venue that is suited to your big day. Remember that you will most likely only get married once in your lifetime, so take the time to speak to the owners of the venue and also make sure that you think about the usual costs involved. Ask about sleeping arrangements, the languages that are spoken by staff and anything else. If you can do this, then you will find it easier to plan everything out and you will also be able to put your mind at ease about the big day.

Hire a Wedding Planner

What is better than having someone who is local, planning your wedding? Hiring a local planner is always a good option purely because they know the rules and they also have a lot of local connections too, so don’t overlook this if possible.

Family Trip to Dollywood Theme Park

I’m in heaven, and I’m taking you guys with me. I am truly a big kid at heart and I love going to amusement parks! My kids haven’t always been big on rides but I’m hoping that they will love it as much as I do! 

This is my family’s first visit to Dollywood and hopefully not the last! Dollywood is known as one of the best family-centered parks and I had to check it out for myself. We have children ranging from age 2-18 and wanted to make sure that Dollywood was living up to its hype! We visited during Dollywood’s Harvest Festival and it was a hit. The park is beautifully decorated and well maintained. There was so much to see and do - you won’t have a dull moment. 

Travel and Lodging

We opted to rent an Airbnb for our stay and it worked out perfectly. We stayed in Sevierville, TN which is only about 15-20 minutes from Dollywood. This was great for us since we had such a large group (8 people) and needed the space. It also provided us with the flexibility to cook! There was a lot to do - I highly recommend you stay for at least 3 days especially if this is your first visit. If you’re traveling far, remember to buffer in travel and rest time.

There are a few hotels in the area and even one on-site, Dollywood DreamMore Resort and Spa. So finding a place to stay won’t be too difficult, just remember peak season for a mountain area and avoid it if you can.

McGhee Tyson Airport is the closest to Dollywood, be sure to check flight times, I like to travel in the early mornings but with hotel check-in being later that may make things a little harder.

The Park

OMG, Dollywood was more than I expected. I read a lot of reviews and watched videos before coming so I knew what to expect and it did not disappoint. The park is huge and well maintained. Parking was a breeze, we arrived early and were able to hit the park as soon as it opened. I love that they have height wristbands, this made it really easy to determine which rides the kids would be able to get on without having to deal with the disappointment of being turned around.

By far, Dollywood is the best park I have been to in a long time. I loved that there was something for my whole family to enjoy. We started the day off in the Country Fair section and worked our way around. This was great since we had our 2-year-old with us. He was able to enjoy a few rides and loved it. It also proved helpful for some of our bigger kids to warm up to the larger rides. Then we ventured over to Jukebox Junction, we hated that Lighting Rod wasn’t open but there were still a lot of other rides. We took a quick break to eat before leaving the park. The younger kids had become restless. 

I did rent a stroller and I am so glad I opted to leave our large one home. We were able to return it and pick it back up once we came to the park for round 2. Wildwood Grove and Wilderness Pass were my favorite parts of the park! There was so much to ride that we didn’t get to do it all. On our next visit, I will plan to visit the park in 2 days to really get a chance to enjoy it all.

Overall, my family and I had a blast! I can’t wait to go back. I really want my whole family to come and experience Dollywood. It is such a family-friendly park. I highly recommend wearing tennis shoes because there is a lot of walking. Enjoy - if you have any recommendations of parks we should visit, let me know!

A Little R&R at Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant

This post is sponsored by IHG Hotels and Resorts, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

 The holiday season is in full swing, and I knew I needed some “me time” before things got hectic. I ventured off the quiet town of Mount Pleasant, SC, not far from one of my favorite beaches, Isle of Palms. I stayed at the Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant, and it was an experience! If you’re not familiar with Mount Pleasant, it’s right outside Charleston, South Carolina, and has excellent dining options!

IHG Hotels & Resorts are known for affordable and family-friendly hotels, but did you know they also offer luxury accommodations? Hotel Indigo is a part of their Luxury & Lifestyle collection and Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts InterContinental Hotels & Restaurants, and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. 

What I love is that no two Hotel Indigos are alike! They each embody the neighborhood’s story from the food, drinks, and culture! Mount Pleasant is a coastal town, and I love how that was incorporated throughout the hotel with its décor. The pool area was my absolute favorite! It’s designed resort-style with palm trees and cabanas; their heated pool is even open year-round, and they serve a variety of local craft beer! I can only imagine how this space comes alive in the warmer months. There is also a restaurant, Eliza’s Bar + Kitchen, on-site (operating limited hours due to COVID at my time visiting). This location is also pet friendly (major bonus); usually, my family and I travel with the dog but not this time!

My room was spacious! The décor was boutique style with a bed, couch, and chair. I loved that they had the essentials tucked away as not to be distracting. The shower was a nice size, and I spent extra time enjoying it!

Life Hack: When not traveling by plane, pack all of your goods, soap, scrubs, body butter, robe, and enjoy! You won’t regret it!

I did not venture out as much because this trip was about putting myself first and relaxing. However, I can never pass up trying a local restaurant when I’m traveling! I checked out Crave Kitchen & Cocktails, located 15 minutes away, nestled in a chic shopping area!

If you’re looking to visit the Charleston, SC area, consider driving the additional 20 minutes to Mount Pleasant and staying at the Hotel Indigo, you’ll be glad you did! 

Is New York Calling You? Consider These Things First

Ah, New York, New York. So good they named it twice. This is arguably the greatest city on earth -- it’s certainly difficult to pick one that’s better than the Big Apple. It just offers so much -- you’ve got culture, opportunities, energy, and, well, just about everything else. It’s these qualities that attract people to the city. And if you’re reading this, then you might be drawn to experience it for yourself. Some people go out of sheer excitement, but most go for a reason. I visited once when I was younger and — it was a lot for my young soul! So is it right for you? We’ll take a look at some things to consider before making the move.

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Is It Good For Your Career?

New York can most definitely be good for your career, but it’s not as if it’s good for all careers. If you want to work in finance, healthcare, or marketing, then yes, it’s a city that might just take you to the next level (just remember that standards are extremely high here). The mistake is thinking that it’ll be good for career advancement no matter what you do. That’s not the case! If you work in tech, for example, then you’d probably be better looking elsewhere.

Do You Want To Live In The City Or Just Near It?

Even if you decide that New York will help push your career forward, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to embrace every element of the city. Some people think that they have to live the whole Sex and The City New York dream, but that’s not the case. You can live right in Manhattan or Brooklyn if you want, but that’s not your only option. You could also look at williampitt.com and look at properties in Fairfield, CT. This is a charming and picturesque city that has none of the ‘big city’ feel of New York, yet it’s only around an hour away from Manhattan. That means that you’ll get to enjoy all the benefits of the Big Apple without having to live right in the middle of it. 

Do You Know People Who Live There?

Frank Sinatra sang that if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere. It was a good track, but it does provide something of a heads up about the city -- it’s tough. As such, it might be useful if you know a few people there since they help show you the ropes and help with networking. If you don’t know anyone that lives there, then you’ll need to ask yourself whether you’re competitive enough. You have to really work hard to carve out a life for yourself. 

Are You Ready For An Adventure?

Finally, ask yourself this -- are you ready for an adventure? Moving to New York -- and staying there -- is not always a walk in the park, but it can be highly rewarding. If nothing else, it might be a case of, ‘if you never try, then you’ll never know.’ Throw yourself into the move, and just see what happens. 

Family Fun Day at Carowinds Amusement Park

Spending quality time with my family is always at the top of my to do list but getting to enjoy a fun activity makes it 10 times sweeter! My husband and I wanted to do something special for the kids before they head back to school next month, and what better way than with a quick trip to Carowinds. Amusement Park. It was perfect for us, Carowinds is less than a 2 hour car ride which was perfect for little passengers. 

We stayed at the Staybridge Suites Charlotte Airport Area and it was a 10 minute drive to Carowinds, which was perfect if you didn’t want to stay in the direct area. I imagine it can get congested. Our hotel was great and perfect for the kids with the option for a full kitchen.

Carowinds is an amusement park located in the Carolinas with over 50 rides for families and kids of all ages. They even have a water park, Carolina Harbor, one of the largest in the Carolinas with a special area for children to enjoy.

We picked a great weekend to go, it was the start of the Grand Carnivale (July 17 - August 1). We saw all of the beautiful decorations and international cuisine from various countries. We didn’t get to enjoy the food as it wasn’t completely set up upon arrival. 

Friendly Tip: Purchase the souvenir bottles and enjoy free refills all day! This came in handy with thirsty kids on an extremely hot day.

Our goal was to tackle the whole park, unfortunately, the heat got the best of us and we just couldn’t do it. We arrived on time and made it through the gate and headed straight for Camp Snoopy. It was important to us that the kids got to enjoy riding first before they hit the water. Their favorite rides of the day were the Woodstock Express and PEANUTS Pirates! I loved them as well! 

We will be keeping an eye out for the Fall and Winter dates to be released so we can come back for a visit. Overall, the kids had a wonderful time. There was so much to do and see! More importantly, we were very impressed with the way Carowinds handled our child with a disability. She was still able to enjoy rides without feeling left out. That truly made the trip worth it.

Exciting News: Effective July 21, 2021 advance reservations are no longer needed!

The next time you’re in the Carolinas be sure to add a Carowinds adventure to your to-do list.

Birthday Trip to Greenville, SC - Holiday Inn Woodruff Rd.

This post is sponsored by IHG Hotels and Resorts. All opinions are my own.

Birthdays are a big deal to me and they always have been. My parents made sure to make birthdays special in our home - naturally, I followed suit. I believe everyone deserves to be celebrated and with COVID-19 hitting so hard last year it was impossible to celebrate in-person.

My husband, Cleveland, turned 40 last year and we didn’t get to celebrate with the surprise party we had planned. He works so hard and gives so much to his family so I knew I had to make it up this year.  We visited the beautiful city of Greenville, South Carolina #yeahthatgreenville and stayed at the new Holiday Inn on Woodruff Road. Hubs was all smiles so I know I did a great job planning everything.

If you’re considering visiting Greenville, South Carolina and don’t want to stay downtown consider staying at the Holiday Inn on Woodruff Road. This location was perfect with a shopping center nearby and tons of restaurants to choose from. You’re in the center of it all and you’re only 15 minutes from the downtown area.

Holiday Inn is honoring the IHG Clean Promise to help keep you and your family safe. All staff wore masks and hand sanitizer stations were available throughout the hotel.  You have the option to check in digitally from the IHG app or at the front desk where there is a barrier between yourself and the person checking you in.

Our room was perfect, just enough space for the two of us. We enjoyed a king size bed with a couch, working table, and spacious shower. The hotel included everything you would need, indoor pool, fitness center, work station and bar.

Travel Tip: Always check the hotel amenities! Indoor pools are my favorite, especially when I travel with the kids. The rain won’t stop their fun.

When traveling, especially for quick trips, I like to put two things on my “must do” list. For me it's an activity and nice sit down dinner. Since we were celebrating Cleveland’s birthday, I chose an activity that I knew he would love. We visited Lemans Karting - it's a short 20 minute drive from the hotel. LeMans Karting is a large indoor race track suitable for the whole family (children ages 8 plus). He loved it.

For dinner we visited Rick Erwin’s West End Grille - the food was delicious! West End Grille is located downtown and perfect for a night out. It’s one of the highly rated steakhouses in Greenville. I enjoyed their 7oz Filet Mignon topped with the Truffle Chive Butter and Creamed Spinach. Cleveland surprisingly didn’t choose a steak and went with the Company Crab Cakes. We gave it 5 stars across the board from the customer service to the food. Our visit was perfect!

I couldn’t have planned a better time away. It was so nice to take a break from work and home life.

Are you ready to plan your next trip? I know I am but this time we plan to take the kids. IHG Hotels and Resorts have a robust portfolio of properties to fit your needs! With 100s of locations and properties to fit every budget you won’t be disappointed. 

Save 15% off your next Romantic Getaway!

Let's Start Traveling

Within the last two years, I’ve found that urge to travel! I’m over things - I want to begin exploring the world. I can’t remember the last time I’ve really left the state for a real vacation. We had a huge trip planned for Disney World back in April of 2020 and COVID-19 happened so that wasn’t instantly canceled. Before then, we went to Great Wolf Lodge, in North Carolina - so not too far from our home state of South Carolina. My husband and I also ventured to Georgia for our mini honeymoon but that’s not far enough, lol! 

I’ve had the not so fun conversation with my children about providing them with less toys and materialistic things and giving them more experiences. I believe that they will remember a trip much more than they will a doll or new Lego set. And while I’m not saying, I will no longer give gifts, I truly want to give more experiences.

We have a few small trips coming up and I’m excited about them. I can’t wait to share them with you. In the meantime, I would love to know where some of your favorite family vacation spots are on the East Coast!

My Travel Wishlist

I’m a tropical girl! I love the water but I’ve never been to such a beautiful place. So here are some of my dream vacation spots. 

Maldives

Have you seen the pictures??? Omg, the water is so beautiful. Just give me a week in paradise. 

Kaua’i, Hawaii

I’ve heard so many good things about Hawaii that I can’t wait to go. Crystal clear water and sandy beaches are totally my vibe. 

Costa Rica

Need I say more?! 

The world is mine for the taking and yours too!

Happy Traveling!