If you’re anything like me, you love the idea of being in business for yourself — with the freedom and flexibility to focus on your family and simply do the work you love. Whether you’re new to the creative industry or an established brand looking to expand your team, we all have two pain points in common: team growth and sales! I had so much fun getting to share the following at a TuesdaysTogether Atlanta Chapter meet up for our Rising Tide Society group. 

Let me take you on a little journey. In Chancey Charm’s first year, I made only $1,300 (insert face-palm here). We all have to start somewhere, right?! Three years later, Chancey Charm earned over six figures in sales and today I have 13 successful locations and over a dozen planners under our brand! I’m incredibly blessed to share my dream with our growing team of wedding planners across the country. It’s my prayer that Chancey Charm can give them the flexibility and freedom I was pursuing in launching my own business.

The Lord has been tugging at my heartstrings to share this team growth journey of mine (the good and the bad) and the secret to my success! And, It’s from a desire to educate and help others build profitable wedding businesses, that I decided to launch a few wedding industry education tools.

The BEST thing I have done in just over six years in the wedding industry is building a healthy team. Yes, team growth!

I learned early on that I would be more successful and save myself a lot of time if I could delegate things I was not great at to those that were. Yes, I have struggled with how to do this and made many mistakes, but the freedom is well worth the cost.

Letting others participate and take ownership in Chancey Charm has propelled it much further than I could have alone. Having an incredible team, has given me valuable family time with my husband and son AND allowed me to do the things that I love in my business. I encourage you to think about one thing you could let go of today to gain back valuable family time. Odds are, that this will actually propel your growth, as you let someone else’s strength fill your weakness.

Photo: Holly Von Lanken Photography 

What can you let go of today, that will propel your business forward?

Do you need branding or social media help? What about bookkeeping?

  Looking for more? – Check out my team resources here!

Cheers to team growth!

Sarah Chancey | Founder, Chancey Charm

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Your is the grand finale of your wedding planning experience, so it’s important to put the same amount of thought and care in planning your post-nuptial trip of a lifetime! Chancey Charm Dallas Wedding Planner, Liz Ise, shared advice as both a newlywed and a wedding industry professional with Brides.com in an article, “12 Foolproof Steps to Planning the Best Honeymoon Ever.” We’re sharing even more tips from Liz below. Enjoy!

-The Chancey Charm Team 

11 Tips for Preparing For Your Honeymoon

Look for travel itineraries and trip plans on travel blogs. This will take the hassle out of figuring out how to pack in all the things you want to do on one trip. Most itineraries will delve into restaurant recommendations and hotel suggestions, which saves you and your hubby-to-be from reading reviews and researching to pick the best local spots!

Start a Pinterest board. When you see a restaurant, activity, etc. that you want to do, you can save it all in one place to refer to later.

Get the big things done first: airfare, hotel, transportation. The fun activities can often be booked once you get there. Your hotel concierge can assist you with these reservations as well.

Don’t over schedule yourselves! Try to plan your trip with one day of relaxation (massages, laying out at the beach) for every day full of activities and adventures. You don’t want to come home from your more tired than you were before!

Don’t feel like you have to take your immediately after your wedding! Settling into your new married life is important. Instead, plan a trip for the off season and you’ll save money and avoid larger crowds. Saving the to plan later will give you something to do in your downtime post-wedding. Or try planning a trip for your first anniversary! The traditional first-anniversary gift is paper. A map, passport or plane tickets would be a perfect gift to celebrate your first year together.

Work planning into your wedding planning timeline. Schedule one planning task per week/month to avoid making decisions all at once. Be sure to keep in mind how early you should book international travel as well as busy seasons.

Use the planning as a form of relaxation with your fiancé. Wedding planning can be stressful, but looking at pristine beaches or luxury hotels is fun! Plus, it’s something most grooms love to partake in. The can act as the light at the end of a long planning tunnel so try to stay positive knowing that you’ll soon be far away from emails and decisions soaking in paradise with your new spouse! Keep your mind in a fun, happy place and everything will fall into place.

Try a registry like HoneyFund or Wanderable. Paying for your trip can be one of the biggest stresses. Pick some activities you know you would love to do but they don’t fit in your budget and let your guests help make the dream a reality. Tip: because older and more traditional guests will still like to buy you a physical item, registries should be paired with traditional gift registries to ensure everyone feels comfortable in their way of saying congratulations.

Look for deals in your location on sites like Groupon and Living Social. This can help you find new, fun activities in the area as well as save you some money!

Don’t know where to go? Ask your friends and family! You trust them for everything else so why not trust their vacation plans? Following their rave reviews for hotels and restaurants can help you start paving the way to your dream trip.

Want the respite of a but don’t have the time? Try a mini moon! Check out a new city in the U.S. that neither of you has been to. Take a road trip or quick flight to start exploring new places, eating like a local and enjoying a shared experience that’s new to both of you. This will give you the relaxation you deserve and help you feel like a newly married couple.

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Are you a bride looking for a resource you can trust to help keep you on track as you plan your wedding?  

As professional wedding planners, we’ve spent years developing and perfecting the resources in our shop just for YOU! Click here to check them out.

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A few media outlets have jokingly referred to Cape Town as “The Cape of Good Hops,” in reference to the city’s newfound notoriety in the craft beer scene. As with most other metropolitan cities, the craft beer revolution began just a few short years ago in Cape Town. Ten years ago there was one brewery in Cape Town and now there are over 20, with several more on the way.

Microbreweries have existed in South Africa since the 1980s, but much like the rest of the world, this niche industry didn’t have the demand that it does today. By 2008, roughly twenty breweries had set up shop in South Africa. Between 2015 and 2016, the industry saw an astonishing 50% growth — from 80 breweries to 160, the bulk of which are located on the Western Cape. [Source]

The Global Demand for South African Hops

While the craft beer scene is still in its infancy, South African hops — known for their unique flavor profiles — are sought after by craft brewers globally. Anheuser Busch-InBev purchased the largest farms and growers last May in their continued effort to stifle craft competition globally, cancelling all shipments to craft breweries in the US and the UK.

The sudden global interest in South African hops and AB-InBev’s expensive move to monopolize the country’s hops supply line has only increased curiosity and interest in South Africa’s craft beer scene. Beer tourism has risen in popularity in the last five years and Cape Town is now a part of that industry boasting several notable breweries and brewpubs that are worth the trip.

Top 5 Places to Drink Craft Beer in Cape Town

1. Jack Black’s Brewing Co.

Jack Black’s Brewing Co. is a 25-barrel brewhouse located in the southern suburbs of Cape Town, in the heart of Diep River. In South Africa’s burgeoning beer scene, this is one of the largest craft breweries in the country. Jack Black’s brewing team produces a range of beers, including an unfiltered Pilsner and an American-style IPA. The taproom is open from Wednesday through Saturday with hours ranging from 10am to 10pm. Tours and tastings are also available throughout the week. The taproom also serves up it’s famous Butcher Block Burger and hosts Food Truck Fridays. Visitors can catch open mic nights, quiz nights, and live music throughout the week.

2. Devil’s Peak Brewing Company

Close to Cape Town’s city center, Devil’s Peak Brewing Company is a popular choice among visitors and locals alike. The brewery is best known for their inaugural hop-forward IPA. Devil’s Peak has a reputation of introducing new beer styles to local drinkers, even starting a barrel-aging program in 2016. In addition to the exciting beers, visitors can enjoy cheeseburgers, cider-glazed pork belly, and a variety of bar snacks designed to elevate the drinking experience. The tap room is open seven days a week with varying operating hours.

3. Woodstock Brewery

Woodstock Brewery, located in an industrial suburb of Cape Town, is best known for its seasonal ales. Their quarterly releases include an award-winning hazelnut brown ale, Mr. Brownstone. Limited releases are their mainstay, but Woodstock is also known to collaborate with nearby breweries such as Drifter Brewing Co. (more information below). The taproom, open Tuesday through Saturday, features weekly tours and a delicious menu from The Woodstock Grill.

4. Drifter Brewing Co.

Drifter Brewing Co. frequently collaborates with nearby Woodstock Brewery, with a ‘guest tap’ at Woodstock’s location. Visitors making the trip on a Friday would do well to visit both. Drifter Brewing’s head brewer started in the Portland, Oregon brewing scene so it’s no surprise the that the brewery features a West Coast-style IPA. Drifter also features several experimental brews including a coconut-infused ale and a brew that highlights the fruit of South Africa’s baobab tree. Drifter’s tasting room is only open on Fridays and tours are by advanced reservation only.

5. Banana Jam Cafe

Banana Jam isn’t a brewery, but it is the first and most celebrated craft beer bar in Cape Town with over 30 craft beers on tap and 80 in the bottle — the widest selection in South Africa. Banana Jam is a must-see if you’re a beer enthusiast. The cafe offers the best selection, but also serves up fantastic Caribbean fare from jerk Chicken to Goat Curry. If beer isn’t your jam, the cafe also boasts one of the best rum collections outside of the Caribbean. A great place to stop and recharge after a half-day tour of the Mother City.

For more tips, ideas, and advice for seeing all there is to see in South Africa, visit us at vacationtosouthafrica.com.

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South Africa is home to safaris, family holidays, exotic beach vacations, wine country getaways, music tourism, and adventure tourism. Adventure travel is a popular vacation niche for thrill-seekers. Popular adventure tours in South Africa include spelunking, bungee jumping, cave diving, shipwreck exploration, and cage diving with great white sharks.

Hiking also qualifies as an adventure travel activity, especially if you’re hiking the world’s second largest waterfall or scaling Table Mountain’s steepest inclines. Avid hikers come to South Africa because of the diversity of the trails and ecosystems. On the same trip travelers can experience dense forests and waterfalls in the mountains and sandy dunes along the coast. When considering where to hike in South Africa, start with these best-loved trails.

Top 6 Hiking Trails in South Africa

1. Leopard’s Kloof Hiking Trail

East of Cape Town, hidden within Betty’s Bay — a small holiday town on the Western Cape — is the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden. Open to the public year round, this national treasure encompasses verdant mountain slopes, deep gorges, and abundant waterfalls. Leopard’s Kloof Hiking Trail follows various waterfalls and crystal clear pools within the dense forest of the botanical garden. This trail an excellent choice for the casual hiker or families since the trail is designed for people of all walking abilities.

2. Dolphin Hiking Trail

Dolphin Hiking Trail is ideal for hikers who are hoping to spot wildlife during their trek. This trail is located within Tsitsikamma National Park on the Eastern Cape. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including otters and dolphins. The famous Otter Trail is located within the same park, but the Dolphin Trail is far less strenuous. As the name suggests, hikers are likely to spot dolphins as the trail winds toward the coast.

3. Skeleton Gorge Hiking Trail

If you think that the name suggests a steep and daunting hike, you’d be correct in your assumption. The Skeleton Gorge Hiking Trail is for more advanced hikers and the athletically inclined. Hikers who choose to take this route up the famed Table Mountain will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Cape Town at the summit.

4. Roseate Tern Hiking Trail

Situated in charming Port Elizabeth on the Eastern Cape, Roseate Tern Hiking Trail is a lovely seaside stroll for all walking abilities. The trail is best known for its sweeping views of the dunes. Birdwatchers will enjoy the wide variety of coastal birds. Along the 6-mile trail is a 150-year old lighthouse, which makes for a perfect vacation photo op. This trail is a wonderful choice for hikers in search of a more relaxing experience.

5. Tugela Gorge Hiking Trail

Tugela Gorge is another trail for advanced hikers. You will need the stamina to scale boulders at the end of the trail in order to see views of Tugela, the 3,110 ft. waterfall. Many first time travelers to South Africa are surprised to learn that Tugela Falls is the world’s second largest waterfall. This makes the challenging trek well worth the effort.

6. Addo’s Alexandria Hiking Trail

For the expert hikers, the two-day hike along Addo’s Alexandria Hiking Trail will take travelers through three distinctly different ecosystems. The trail begins in Addo Elephant National Park and takes hikers through thick forests, expansive sand dunes, and long stretches of white beaches along the coast. The trail is nearly 20 miles long.

Experience the breathtaking views from the top of Table Mountain on our upcoming 2018 Best of Cape Town Tour. For more tips, ideas, and advice for seeing all there is to see in South Africa, visit us at vacationtosouthafrica.com.

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Seu Jorge (photo credit: clture.org)

Festival-goers and jazz fans around the world have heard of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival — one of the largest jazz festivals on the planet. The fest, which has a reputation for gathering some of the best musical talent from across the globe, is held annually in South Africa’s ‘Mother City.’ Combining jazz virtuosos with groundbreaking modern artists, this event a big draw for tourists and locals alike.

While ‘Africa’s Grandest Gathering’ boasts headlines such as Herbie Hancock, Isaac Hayes, Leela James, Mos Def, and Erykah Badu — the festival is also known for elevating the careers of up-and-coming artists, providing a platform for lesser-known musicians. If you’re visiting during our March 2018 Best of Cape Town Tour, you will be lucky enough to see these incredible shows in person.

5 Artists to Watch at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival

  1. The Soil

Experience a different genre. The Soil is an award-winning three-person South African acapella group. The group’s style is described as “kasi soul,” which features an eclectic mix of jazz, hip hop, African-influenced pop, and soul. Despite being perfectly harmonized, not a single member of the trio is formally trained. Unable to read even a note of music between them, the group collaborates on every song with a heavy emphasis on poetic and inspirational lyrics. The result of their labor of love is a complex, exciting, and inspiring sound. Follow The Soil on Instagram.

2. Keenan Ahrends Quintet

Show some local love. Be sure to support Keenan Ahrends when you’re at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival. Ahrends is a Cape Town native. He started playing guitar at the age of 15 and studied under Mike Campbell. If you don’t recognize the name, Campbell is the famed guitarist, songwriter, and record producer best known for his work with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Ahrends is a local favorite and is heavily involved in the Cape Town music scene. In a quartet, this modern jazz sound is amplified by the soulful rock influence of Ahrends’ guitar. Definitely worth a listen. Follow Keenan Ahrends on SoundCloud and Instagram.

3. Miles Mosely

Not your mama’s bassist. Los Angeles-born Miles Mosely is a virtuoso on the upright bass. Set aside whatever preconceived notions you have about a mellow bass soloist. Mosely’s smooth vocals, thunderous horn section, and his expert use of a variety of pedals make for a bold, upbeat, and unexpected sound. This show will not disappoint. Follow Miles Mosely on Twitter and Instagram.

4. Nicholas Payton: Afro-Caribbean Mixtape

Listen to a new sound. “Experimental” is the word that comes to mind when describing Nicholas Payton: Afro-Caribbean Mixtape. This native New Orleans trumpeter will be unlike anyone you’ve ever heard. Payton’s style can be best described as the expert trumpeting of Wynton Marsalis overlayed with rhythmic Afro-Caribbean beats. The result is an experimental Moby-eque sound, without sounding anything like Moby. Payton is absolutely a ‘must-see live’ artist and musician. Follow Nicholas Payton on Facebook and Twitter.

5. Seu Jorge presents The Life Aquatic / A Tribute to David Bowie

Bowie-approved listening. You likely recognize singer-songwriter and “father of the Brazilian samba renaissance” Seu Jorge from the films City of God and The Life Aquatic, for which he provided much of the soundtrack in the form of Portuguese language cover versions of David Bowie classics. Bowie later went on to say that “had Seu Jorge not recorded my songs in Portuguese I would never have heard this new level of beauty which he has imbued them with.” Listen to Seu Jorge’s original work on Spotify.

Experience the Cape Town International Jazz Festival as part of a stellar lineup of the best sights and activities in South Africa. In our Cape Town Tour 2018, travelers will not only get to attend the festival, but will stay in premier oceanfront lodging, experience a two-day safari, and enjoy a leisurely day in South Africa’s famed Winelands. Learn more about this incredible 10-day adventure.

For more tips, ideas, and advice for seeing all there is to see in South Africa, visit us at vacationtosouthafrica.com.

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For most people, seeing majestic creatures like elephants and rhinos in the South African bush is plenty of adventure for one vacation. But for adrenaline junkies, a safari is the appetizer on an action-packed vacation menu loaded with adventure tours. We travel to collect experiences, but adventure travelers are in search of a feeling: a heart-racing adrenaline rush that makes them feel joyful, present, and alive. These activities are guaranteed to deliver a thrill.

The Best Activities for Thrill-Seekers in South Africa

1. Night Game Viewing Drive

What’s more exciting than seeing sleepy lions lounging in the sun during a safari? Catching a glimpse of these agile hunters at night, when they’re awake, alert, and on the prowl. Your chances of seeing these magnificent hunters increases in the dark. After the sun goes down in South Africa, the temperature drops. Predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs take advantage of the cooler climate to run down their prey. A drive through the bush in the dark will deliver enough action for a National Geographic documentary. Many of the safaris arranged by South Africa Travel & Tours offer evening game drives.

2. Incredible Shipwreck Dives

Scuba diving is a known “gateway drug” for adventure travel. While scuba diving sounds tame — and is indeed very relaxing — your first dive in open water, at depths unfathomable, is sure to raise your heart rate and expand your mind. The ocean is another kind of wilderness altogether, which you will soon discover as the sun drifts away and transforms into tiny pinhole of light at the ocean’s sparkling surface. Many divers opt for shipwreck reef dives where they spot clusters of colorful fish, eels, stingrays, sea turtles, whales, and sharks. With 98 species of shark in South Africa, your odds of spotting one are relatively high. The haunting beauty of these wrecks will stay with you long after you return to the surface.

Bloukrans will send you plummeting headfirst for 708 feet!

3. Bloukrans Bungee Jumping

Bungee jumping is so angsty-1990s-thrill-seeker, right? Wrong. Bungee jumping isn’t just for an 18th birthday or a midlife crisis anymore. South Africa has earned a global reputation for a number of activities, including bungee jumping. The infamous Bloukrans Bridge jump on the gorgeous Garden Route is a must for adrenaline junkies. Bloukrans will send you plummeting headfirst down 216 meters (708 feet!) into a beautiful lush green gorge, giving you a unique view of the stunning vistas that the Garden Route is known for.

4. Climb the World’s Second Tallest Waterfall

If you are looking for incredible views, South Africa delivers at every turn. Outside of Angel Falls in Venezuela, Tugela Falls in South Africa is the highest waterfall in the world at 948 meters (3,110 feet). Some even argue that it is in fact taller than Angel Falls! To catch the best view, experienced hikers will make the steep trek up the stunning Drakensberg Mountains. Some of the hikes allow you to peer over the edge of the falls, but be warned: the climbs will have you scaling the mountains on ropes, chains, and ladders. The unforgettable views are well worth the effort and you’ll create a memory of an adventure that will last a lifetime.

5. Spelunking Inside Table Mountain

Not into climbing up? How about diving down? Into caves, that is. Spelunking or “caving” in South Africa is a popular choice for adventure veterans and caving novices alike. There are over a hundred caves just within the Cape Peninsula of South Africa, ranging from shallow overhangs to deep and winding tunnels that burrow into Table Mountain for more than a kilometer. Just like hiking, there are commercialized guided tours that provide a set route, handrails, and lights. However, you can opt for ‘adventure trails’ if you’re up for a challenge. These options will have you dropping into caves on ropes or shimmying down narrow crevices with footholds wearing hardhats and protective gear. Fantastic exercise and a truly unique experience.

6. Cage Diving with Great White Sharks

Arguably South Africa’s most unique and epic adrenaline rush is the rare opportunity to swim beside nature’s most lethal predator: the great white shark. At times you will find yourself mere inches from these beautiful, powerful creatures safe within a fully enclosed steel cage. Three of the best locations for great white shark cage dive tours are Cape Town, Gansbaai, and Mossel Bay. If great whites aren’t enough, you also have the opportunity to dive with hammerheads, tiger sharks, and whale sharks!

For more tips, ideas, and advice for creating incredible experiences in South Africa, visit us at vacationtosouthafrica.com.

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Holiday Gifts for Cyclists

Stumped for what to give the bike lovers, gourmands, and world travelers in your life? We surveyed our friends in the worlds of cycling, food, and wine for the gifts they’ve been personally loving and coveting. See what the experts suggest for every price point (and every age), and you may even find a few things to add to your own holiday wish list.

Peloton | $1,995.00

“I do the Peloton even when I don’t want to do it, and I never regret it.” – Andy Levine, DuVine founder

When it comes to cycling, it’s said that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. But for those who like to use winter weather as a reason to take cycling classes instead, the Peloton offers everything that’s great about studio cycling—in your home and on your schedule. The carbon fiber bike and live and on-demand instruction makes year-round devotees out of this seriously addicting system.

Leatherman Sidekick Multi-Tool | $46.50

“This is the most universally useful tool. I always need it!” – Seamus Mullen, Chef

Small enough to fit in a stocking (or your jersey pocket), this gadget has spring-action pliers, knives, screwdrivers, a metal file, and even a bottle opener for your brew break. Give the gift of preparedness in unexpected scenarios, from quick mechanical fixes to carving up an impromptu picnic lunch. And Leatherman’s 25-year warranty makes it the gift that keeps on giving.

Hincapie Arenberg Zero Vest | $150.00

“Cowboy up for the winter with this versatile vest and go.” – George Hincapie, Hincapie Sportswear

Remember when we said there’s no bad weather, only bad clothing? No excuses: a vest is one of those essential layering pieces to keep dedicated cyclists riding through all conditions. This one by Hincapie is breathable, comfortable, and visible thanks to a HyperOptic RoubaixTM reflective treatment. We love this brand because it’s made by cyclists, for cyclists in an ethical, family-run factory.

Finest Roots Mastiha Liqueur | $26.97

“Made from the resin of a Mastic tree, this sweet after-dinner drink has an unusual earthy flavor.” – Jody Adams, Chef

Take it from our Chef on Wheels: this unexpected hostess gift is an up-and-coming holiday spirit. It tastes like Christmas with notes of anise, pine, and herbs, but it conjures the Greek island of Chios where it’s produced in wooden casks. Offer it on ice at your cocktail party, serve it after Christmas dinner alongside coffee, or sip a shot of it as the night wears on. This premium brand was founded by two Greek brothers who come from a long lineage of local distillers.

Cashmere with Fur Throw | $2,000.00

“Love the softness and quality of this throw. A perfect wintertime gift.” – Jung Lee, Fête NY

A staple for frequent long-haul fliers, this Italian cashmere throw will wrap its recipient in super luxe comfort. It’s the antidote we’ve all been looking for to combat frigid in-flight A/C, and it transitions beautifully to a literal security blanket once you’re checked into a faraway hotel room. Of course, it’s also delightful to leave it home for cozying up by the fire on Christmas Eve. And for the fashion forward, it doubles as a cape, too.

Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm | $27.00

“Because I’m either cooking or riding in harsh conditions all weekend, my hands take a beating. This beautiful, fragrant balm is such a treat!” – Lentine Alexis, Skratch Labs

Super aromatic (it smells like sweet almond, citrus, cedar, and lavender) and hydrating, this is one non-greasy hand cream that transcends the women-only world of luxurious cosmetics. The cool, unisex packaging doesn’t hurt, either. Pick up two: one for a stocking stuffer, and another for yourself to use on the  Sonoma Wine Country Women’s Bike Tour With Lentine Alexis.

Garmin Varia Rearview Radar | $199.99

“Choose your weapon with your favorite Garmin product, but this one is essential for bike commuters.” – Richard Fries, MassBike

The world’s first cycling radar helps keep road riders safe. On a handlebar-mounted screen, it warns of vehicles approaching from behind up to 153 yards and syncs to a tail light that brightens and flashes to notify traffic that you’re there. The entire unit integrates with Garmin Edge cycling computers, and an optional head unit takes even more stress out of commuting.

SpheroVelo | $110.00

“With my mild obsession with design and bikes and as a father to a young boy, this gorgeous kids’ bike grabbed my attention.” – Richard Banfield, Fresh Tilled Soil

Start them young with this push-along ride for 10-24 month olds. Removable stabilizers make it safe whether kids are just learning to control balance and coordination or feel ready to go it alone. This is one toy that doubles as a design object instead of looking like clutter!

Markets of Provence by Marjorie R. Williams | $19.99

“The excellent photographs and indispensable information in this guide make one of my favorite pastimes even more enjoyable.” – Eric Jausseran, Attaché

Get inspired for a DuVine trip to Provence with this guide to the region’s 30 best markets. Detailed maps and day-of-the-week organization arm you with all the information required to shop for French treats. When ordering fromage and a fresh baguette, Markets of Provence prepares you with tips on negotiating and paying, and includes lessons on etiquette when you’re eyeing apricots and haricots—so you’ll never seem like an out-of-towner.

ASSOS Laalalai Bib Short | $249.00

“ASSOS is one of the brands in cycling, and let’s be honest—no cycling apparel is more important than comfortable shorts.” – Arien Coppock, DuVine Guide

This Swiss brand is renowned for high-quality gear that relies on painstaking research for every garment. In keeping with their high standards, these bib shorts are ultra-chic and clean looking—to say nothing of the performance. We’ve all had those rides that end too soon because staying in the saddle is just too uncomfortable, so keep your favorite lady riding on in something designed especially for the female body. After all, if you’re going to wear tight pants, you might as well look hot doing it!

Skimo Dynafit Daulaghiri Ski | $699.95

“For the skiing cyclist, Skimo makes incredibly light, hard-charging skis, boots, and bindings.” – Tim Johnson, Cyclist

If you change sports with the season, put this complete gear overhaul on your list. Pair this super-advanced ski technology with Skimo’s Dyanfit Radical FT 2.0 bindings and Dynafit TLT7 boot for uphill sessions or on the lifts with family and friends. We also love the new SkimoEast event series, which straddles borders with races in Quebec and Vermont resorts.

VinniBag | $29.99

“When I find a wine I like, I really value being able to bring it home with me immediately.” – Carlton McCoy, The Little Nell

An ingenious solution for wine enthusiasts who collect from around the world or someone who’s planning a forthcoming tasting trip. Spare them the cost of international shipping fees, since these inflatable and reusable sleeves put drinkable souvenirs right in your suitcase. They pack flat until you fill them with wine or olive oil, and bottles arrive intact leaving luggage contents safe from spills and shatters.

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A classic Petite Specialty Cake with the golden touch.

See more designs, links below:

WEBSITE: The Pastry Studio

FACEBOOK: The Pastry Studio INSTAGRAM: @thepastrystudio