How To Host A Fun Book Swap | Event Recap #GalentineBookSwap ft. @mangopublishing @sassoolcafe @nothingbundt @loveblockwine

February 11, 2020SobeSavvy 14 Comments

Hey ladies! I am back with another cool way to celebrate Galentine’s Day. If you read my last post, I went out with some friends for a wine tasting and hosted the event I decided to name: #GalentinesandWine. This past Saturday, I decided to do something at home with my bookish gals. If you love to read and want a creative way to share (or get rid of) the too many books you may have, here’s How to Host a Fun Book Swap Party:

THE INVITE

Inspired by a hair product swap party I attended in 2019 and a convo I had with a bookish friend, I decided to host a book swap party with a Galentine’s Day theme and used the hashtag #GalentineBookSwap. What is a #GalentineBookSwap? It’s a fun way to celebrate female friendships and our love of reading!

A WARM WELCOME

I like having an element of surprise, some festive decor and a welcome drink to set the tone when guests arrive. For the #GalentineBookSwap, I showered guests with rose petals as they came in the door and hit them with my own rendition of “She’s Your Queen To Be” from the classic movie “Coming to America”. Red Sangria was the welcome drink for this occasion. I simply set up a self serve Sangria bar along with some cute cocktail napkins that said #GALS which I got from Target dollar spot.

FUN PHOTO PROPS

Walmart was the place to shop for some cute photo props. I found a heart wreath and door fringe, which made for a cute backdrop for all the selfie lovers. The light up heart box came from Tuesday Morning some years ago and hangs up in my daughter’s room, but I borrowed it to make a #GalentineBookSwap sign and placed some red coiled chocolate Hershey’s Kisses nearby. I also picked up some heart shaped balloons from the Dollar Tree, and Viola! We had fun photo props to give the guests choices for photo ops!

DELICIOUS FOOD

When you want less mess and no stress, catering is the way to go for me when I host at home. I was very excited to introduce my guests as well as my own tastebuds to something new being offered by Sassool Cafe. All February long, Sassool Cafe will be offering a delicious and nutritious Heart “Beet” Hummus! This beautiful pink dip is the perfect side dish to all of your favorites at Sassool. This “lovely” hummus will be available at the Cary, Raleigh, and Sassool Select locations.

On the menu of heart healthy bites, we enjoyed:

-hummus

-Heart “Beet” hummus

-tatziki

-pita chips for all

-assorted mediterranean cheeses + grapeleaves + olives

-Spanakopita Triangles

-Mini Chicken and Beef Kabob Skewers

-Root Salad

-Assorted Baklava

Not only does Sassool Cafe provide the food, the platters but also the serving utensils. How convenient, how delicious!

For more information on their catering packages, go to sassool.com!

PRESENT A 🆕️ WINE

My husband likes being an at home Sommelier and presenting new wines to our guests by sharing tasting notes. I’ve even shared on the blog, tips on hosting a wine tasting at home, if you’d like to get some ideas for that as well. This always adds a level of intimacy to my at home events. After his presentation, we all get to enjoy our very own wine tasting! For this event, I partnered with Terlato Wines, who sponsored two varietals from LoveBlock.

We started off with the white and served the LOVEBLOCK Sauvignon Blanc,which was just released in Dec. 2019. LoveBlock SB is a classic example of New Zealand’s most famous varietal. Tasting Notes: Lots of grass and just the perfect amount of acid.

Next, we tried the LOVEBLOCK Pinot Noir, which went great with the grilled steak skewers. Tasting Notes: Deep finish and notes of berries on the palate.

PULL NAMES FOR BOOK SWAP

Everyone was instructed to write down their name and the # of books that they bought to swap. I advised to bring up to 3, but next timeI will say u limited. Any kind if books were allowed.

Everything from non-fiction, to fiction, self-help, children’s books, thrillers, devotionals…you name it, there was something for everyone! We all got a new book to dive into.

THANK YOU GIFTS

Although gifting is not my love language, I enjoy giving some type of swag or goodie bag for every guests to remember the special occasion. Everyone received a special “thank you” gift from:

• Mango Publishing @mango.books.and.authors |If you read my February Reading List blog post, then you may recognize these two amazing books:

❤ Say It Now – 33 Creative ways to say I Love You to the most important people in your life by Sherry Richert Belul

❤ Friendship Isn’t A Big Thing,It’s A Million Little Things- The Art of Female Friendship by Becca Anderson

• Nothing Bundt Cakes @nothingbundtcakes | no matter the occasion they offer moist, delicious, AMAZING, tasty, bundt cakes for any occasion in a variety of flavors. Vanilla, Chocolate and Red Velvet are the flavors I gave as a choice for the guests to take home.

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Guys Gift Guide For The Man Who Loves Simple Pleasures

November 19, 2019SobeSavvy 18 Comments

In T-minus 9 days, my husband will be turning FIFTY years old! I am excited to be on this journey of life and love with him and have enjoyed seeing him evolve over the last 26 years. Gift giving for him has been easy because although his age and the years may change, most of his adult interests have remained the same. He loves his family and simple pleasures!

So I decided to put together a Guys Gift Guide {inspired by my soon to be husband who is turning 50 on Nov 27th} with potential gift ideas for any guy who feels like he has everything, doesn’t really want gifts, and prefers the simple pleasures in life! Take a look at this list for some ideas for any guys you may be getting gifts for soon.

Accessories from Execsocks

Looking for unique gift ideas for men? 👔 Watch this unboxing Video ft. ExecSocks, a Raleigh, NC-based subscription service delivering new pairs of fresh, stylish socks & men’s accessories to members across the U.S. every month!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4alC9BHIla/?igshid=1uk1af4huwneh

Bedlam Vodka + Swag

How’s that holiday shopping list coming? 🍸 If you want to get ahead of the game, Bedlam Vodka had got you covered! Visit Graybeard Distillery in Durham,NC and get some merch to go along with this smooth tasting vodka.

Get Him Books Based On His Interests

Are you putting together a books gift list for a special guy in your life? 📚 Here are some great books from Mango Media that any guy (or girl) would love! Books make great gifts when catered to ones interests, plus every man could use a 🆕️ book! All books are available on Amazon or on Mango Media’s website.

***SobeSavvy Tip: Pair his favorite wine with any of the above books so he can enjoy sipping, relaxing and reading at the same time! 🍷

Fill His Stocking With Eco-Friendly Coffee from STEEPED

☕My husband loves coffee so I am excited to introduce him to the newest trend in specialty coffee from Steeped Coffee. The innovative startup is committed to premium coffee, convenience, and saving the planet with their eco-friendly coffee that comes in single-serve bags much like tea. No machines or brewing equipment required makes for a uniquely “unplugged” coffee experience.

Best of all, each Steeped Pack contains hand-roasted, ethically-sourced, Direct Trade coffee that’s precision ground to showcase the distinctive flavor profile of every crafted blend. Whether you’re looking for light, medium, dark, French roast, or even decaf, there’s something for every coffee lover! Visit the Steeped website to see some of the one of a kind gift items like mugs, The Steeped Coffee Subscription or order The Steeped Lineup Sampler which includes five alluring blends ranging from Light, Medium, Dark, and French Roasts to the Swiss Water Processed Decaf. I am filling up his christmas stocking with the sampler and who knows, we may just get the subscription! For more info about STEEPED, check them out on Instagram, here ⤵️

https://instagram.com/steepedcoffee?igshid=9n7bnnemitxm

I hope I have helped you in deciding what to gift the guy who loves simple pleasures this year! What would your guy (or you) choose from this list to enjoy? Please share in the comments below and thanks for reading!

3 Books That Celebrate Strong Women | Book Review + Giveaway @MangoPublishing #books

April 3, 2019SobeSavvy 10 Comments

Hello Readers and Hello April! Can you believe how quick March went?! I can not, but I am always happy for a new month to arrive and to share new books that I have read. Since March is National Reading Month and Women’s History Month, I thought I would share with you 3 Books That Celebrate Strong Women, which is something we should do no matter what month it is, right?! Plus, I have a gift for you to win and keep the celebrations going! Stay tuned..but first, let me tell you about these three phenomenal books from Mango Publishing.

STILL I RISE

STILL I RISE- THE PERSISTENCE OF PHENOMENAL WOMEN- by Marlene Wagman-Geller

You may recognize the title Still I Rise from a poem by Maya Angelou. The Author’s Note shares that this book is a tribute to that poem and dedicated to the women who helped her rise. STILL I RISE, [which was #1 New Release on Amazon] is a paperback book that answers the questions— Who are the great women leaders in history? Who are the women heroes who personify “girl power”?
STILL I RISE embodies the strength of character of the inspiring women profiled. Each chapter will outline the fall and rise of great women heroes who smashed all obstacles, rather than let all obstacles smash them. There are so many unknown stories of women who quietly and courageously changed the course of history! I can guarantee there will be stories in this book that will not only resonate with you but leave you inspired to lead a life well-lived!

SobeSavvy.com Book Review | STILL I RISE- THE PERSISTENCE OF PHENOMENAL WOMEN- by Marlene Wagman-Geller

DEAR WOMAN

DEAR WOMAN by JUST MIKE THE POET- Michael E.Reid

I have heard so much about this author [@justmikethepoet] via social media and hearing how empowering this book has been for women that I was excited to read DEAR WOMAN. This hardcover book is poetry+self help+inspirational all wrapped up into one dope read! This book was respectfully written by Michael E. Reid aka Just Mike The Poet to encourage all women to:

•Stop cutting yourself short: You must wear your crown at all times. Every woman is a queen, and you don’t have to wait for someone to give you your crown. 👑

•Take a journey: No one has just one page in their life story. That’s why DEAR WOMAN has everything—quotes, letters, short stories, and poems to educate, motivate, encourage, and provide a little tough love.

•Want the best for yourself: Michael E. Reid wrote this book and started with these encouraging words “Dear Woman, This is YOUR book. With it comes the responsibility to be a better woman.” This is more than a self-help book, more than just relationship advice for women—though it does include both of those things. No, this inspirational open letter, full of poetry and wisdom, is life advice just for you.

•Do it for you: You are an amazing woman. Deep down, you know that. DEAR WOMAN isn’t here to tell you that you need to improve. Rather, it’s here to tell you that you can be your true self—for yourself.

Filled with great advice and written to shed some love and light, DEAR WOMAN is a great read and reminder for every woman to Be Confident, Know You Deserve The Best and Love Yourself!

SobeSavvy.com Book Review | DEAR WOMAN by JUST MIKE THE POET- Michael E.Reid

THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK

THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK •A Modern Woman’s Guide to a Wealthy Life• Brynne Conroy

I start a new, full time job in a couple of weeks and this time around I want to be smarter about saving and investing my earnings as well as paying off debt. I was attracted to THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK to help me with these goals. I plan to start reading this book this week and can’t wait to learn more about general financial planning principles. THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK provides actionable tips for overcoming obstacles and explores financial issues with anecdotes and perspectives of women of different races, sexual orientations and abilities. I look forward to reading the stories and learning from the advice of women who have worked through the struggle, and achieved their goals.

SobeSavvy.com Book Review | THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK •A Modern Woman’s Guide to a Wealthy Life• Brynne Conroy

SobeSavvy.com Book Review + Giveaway | 3 Books That Celebrate Strong Women

5 Zen-Tastic Books To Read For Your Wellness From @MangoPublishing

February 22, 2019SobeSavvy 16 Comments

According to Forbes list of 10 Wellness Trends You Have To Try In 2019, “finding big meaning in small rituals”, “unplugging from the digital world” and “workouts for the soul” are just some of the ways you can add some Zen to your life.

In my opinion, you can never have too much Zen. For example, I recently created a meditation space for myself that I call the “Zen Spot“…

…..as well as a little “Zen Den” for my daughter to read/relax in.

Did you know reading is a key wellness practice? It is proven to reduce stress, build empathy, and even lessen sugar cravings! It’s nice to have these peaceful nooks at home to which I recently added these 5 Zen-tastic Books To Read For Your Wellness from Mango.

THE MAGIC OF CRYSTALS & GEMS

As someone who has been gifted stones and have always admired the beauty of crystals, I was intrigued by this book. I wanted to learn more and discover what lies behind or shall I say within these gems. This book is a fun, entertaining and enlightening guide to the magical uses of crystals and the powers of stones.

GODDESS POWER

What is the divine feminine? Who is the goddess Oshun? Why is “herstory” an essential part of our cultural legacy? Goddess Power is a book that will answer those questions and more! Informative, Inspiring , Insightful and Important~ these are just four words that I would use to descibe why I enjoy this book.

WOMAN’S BOOK OF PRAYER

No matter when or how you pray, this book was written to show you the way thru words of encouragement, inspiring quotes, poems and meditations. Becca Anderson has done an amazing job at gathering a year’s worth of prayers by and for women for every occasion. I have found that reading from this devotional each day has impacted my spirit in a positive way.

ZEN DOGS

Our daughter wants a dog but since that is not happening anytime soon, she was happy to receive this book filled with adorable photos of mindful mutts and dharma dogs! Zen Dogs offers key lessons on how to live in the now. Dog lovers will enjoy reading the timeless teachings of Buddhism, meditations and eternal truths while enjoying the pictures of so many cute canines.

SUPER AGER

As a 45 yr old Mom of a 7 year old, it is important for me to prepare for my second half of life. I want to do everything I can to not only age with grace but to live long and prosper. It’s every parents wish to be here for as long as we can to see the growth of our children. Super Ager is a ‘how-to’ book that compiles a comprehensive look at what others are doing to be healthy at age 100 and beyond! I’m ready to increase my lifespan and my healthspan with this book.

📚SobeSavvy Tip: Find these great books and more from amazing authors at >>>> Mango.

I am so looking forward to curling up with these books and learning from each of them. So if you don’t hear from me, I’ll be somewhere reading. Which one of these books would you add to your collection or gift to someone?

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4 #Books To Make Holiday #FamilyTravel Easier + #ChildrensBook Giveaway

November 21, 2018SobeSavvy 6 Comments

*Disclosure: This content uses some affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy for more info: here

Do you pack books for yourself or family when you travel? I do. No matter if it’s by plane, train or automobile each member of my #HeighPartyof3 will have some type of reading material or activity book. We are heading up to Charlotte, NC for Thanksgiving weekend and I have already started packing up what books my daughter will read on the roadtrip and keep her entertained during our hotel stay. Sure she has a tablet and my husband has his kindle, but there is still something special about having and holding a book. Here are 4 Books To Make Holiday Family Travel Easier:

Football Freddie and Fumble Dog by Marnie Schneider, Goldie Grace, Illustrated by D.Moore

Description: Football Freddie and Gameday in the Carolinas is a book that follows Football Freddie, a football loving girl who also loves to learn, as she travels around the Carolinas taking in the sights, ending her trip at a Carolina Panthers game in Charlotte.

This book is beautifully illustratrated and includes dome fun facts about the Carolinas and even some Charlotte stops, which is right on time since we will be visiting there in a few days! Our daughter is including this book in her #outandaboutAvareads series to enjoy along the way.

*Available at Amazon.com >here
Color My Washington DC by Elina Diaz

Description: Color Washington, D.C., the way you want to see it… Color your journey through the capital of the United States. Color elaborately hand drawn pen and ink illustrations of some of the most iconic destinations in the District—from to the White House, down through the National Mall and across to the Washington Monument, enjoy all the treasures this city has to offer. Each page contains facts about the District of Columbia, so regardless if you’re a Democrat or a Republican or a first time visitor to Capitol Hill, you’ll have your own relaxing coloring experience for years to come.

I am from the DMV area and enjoy traveling back to DC to see family, friends and share our #soDMVsavvy highlights. With this book, I get to learn more about the city while coloring. When my daughter pulls out her coloring books in the hotel, this is the one I will use!

*Purchase at Amazon.com >here

48 hours in North American Cities

Description: 48 Hours In…North American Cities | How to Enjoy the Perfect Short Break in 20 Great Destinations By Simon Calder

Every Saturday in The Independent’s award-winning Traveller section, our “48 hours” stories explore new and exciting city-break itineraries. Now, 25 years after the series was first launched, we’ve produced this special, designed to help you get the most from a visit to a selection of 20 key North American cities. Among them, you can choose from New York’s dizzying nightlife, the rollercoaster thrills of Orlando, the Hollywood glitter of Los Angeles or Vancouver’s great outdoors. We’ve also included a range of accommodation options to suit your budget.

We love weekend getaways! While my husband and I both have a background in working in a Travel agency (it’s how we met actually), we still like referring to books on what to do in certain cities. Our family just came back from a 3 Day Vacation in Orlando and this book gave us some ideas outside of the Disney box!

*Get your copy on Amazon.com>here

BigFoot Fun Book!: Puzzles,Coloring Pages, Fun Facts! by D.L.Miller

Description: The idea of the book brainchild of Pennsylvania artist D.L. Miller, was to marry fun activities along with learning. “Children have the opportunity to have fun while learning about the world around them with BigFoot,” says Miller.

The activity book is a treasure trove of engaging activities such as mazes, word search games, dot-to-dot pictures, coloring, and of course his classic seek-and-find activities. As with his other BigFoot books, the activity book is intended to help children learn about the world in an engaging and exciting way. As an added bonus, the book also includes animal stickers.

This book, which is recommended for children ages 5-12 years old, grade level:4-6 , is 136 pages of fun for my 7 yr old 2nd grader. The variety of educational, fun and interactive activities is why we parents love this book for our daughter. It keeps her engaged and gives a good balance between playing with apps on the tablet doing an activity in a book. She enjoys the Bigfoot seek and find series, which you can find out more information at IFoundBigFoot.com

*Available at Amazon.com >here

SobeSavvy Tip: Enter my #SobeSavvyGiveaway to recieve a copy of the BigFoot Fun Book!: Puzzles, Coloring Pages, Fun Facts for a child in your life! Comment below in blog comments with ” I Found BigFoot” to enter. One winner will be selected randomnly. Contest ends Monday, Nov 26, 2018 at noon. Additional entry if you comment in this IG post also ⤵

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