Visit to Four Seasons Orlando: Celebrating my Birthday and Women’s History Month

I think one the most beautiful things in life is living your dreams. I am extremely happy to be a woman in today’s world, absolutely, but there is so much more growth to come. My birthday was February 25th, and the Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney was so kind to host me. I thought about what would be my dream locations to celebrate my birthday, and so I was delighted they wanted to collaborate when I reached out, so thank you so much to them for making my day special! Now in retrospect, I’m writing this during Women’s History Month in March, and so there is still more to celebrate beyond just me.

Your Adult Playground Is The Life That You Choose

If you think about what made you excited while being a child, what were those long lasting memories? Mine were warm days spent by pools, dining out, wandering around seeing new and exciting things, and having activities that make you laugh and feel joy. As we discover what life has to offer, why not decide to keep doing those things that are endlessly making us happy? I am a big fan of spontaneity, but as I get older, I like to plan ahead, which is exactly what I did when planning the visit! A more spontaneous decision was to make a reservation at The restaurant Capa on the 17th floor of the Four Seasons, and it was a perfect way to indulge. Any time I mentioned it was my birthday celebration I would always be surprised by more desserts!

The Art of Loving Yourself and Your Environment

I think that it is really difficult not to feel exceptionally wonderful about your environment at the Four Seasons Orlando.

Self-love and appreciation for all of what you’ve overcome, just to enjoy yourself, has become a phenomenon that a lot of people have to figure out. I do the best I can to see the world in a beautiful way, and sure, maybe that makes me have to create a happiness bubble. Some could call it naive, but I call it extreme focus on the positives. I am a daring individual, I take risks, I give all my love, I allow negativity to scorch my emotions every single day. Yet, I still get up every day with the focus of a bright new day. Life is full of uncertainty, and it’s extremely unsettling to feel this up and down, yes and no at any moment, the experience of life on the line. It pains me so much that I can actually get physically and emotionally sick daily. Yet it is worth it to keep trying, building, finding your inner and outer PEACE.

Breakfast at the terrace restaurant Ravello was so beautiful with exceptional service. My top and bottoms are from Pretty Little Thing, and my swimsuit is from Solid and Striped.

Planning Who You Want to Spend Your Birthday With

This is a difficult one. I put a lot of emphasis on that in my article I wrote for News Break, about Ideas on How to Celebrate Your Birthday. It’s sad to say you can’t actually plan anything with anyone specifically because of uncertainty. Catherine Wagner and “Guest” is a really difficult thing when you have absolutely no idea even just a month prior, so you have to keep that part blank until arrival. It pains me to say this was an unknown.

Plan Going Forward

I go into my last years of my 20’s (now I’m 29) with no specific plans, because based on so many outside factors I cannot be certain. What is certain is that I will take a vow to myself, and to all of you, that I will continuously live the best life that I can.

Women’s History Month

WOW LADIES, we have come SO far already. A lot of men might look down on women for not being as far advanced as men have been. Women have consistently have to fight from oppression. Take a look at the milestones of women from The History Channel. It is time to take control of our lives. Every time I stand up for myself, I have this feeling that the world of women are clapping for me and the rest of us. I am here for you, just like you have been here for me. One moment at a time we are gaining our strength. NEVER GIVE UP. We weren’t even allowed to vote before men in general, of any race. Those amazing women in history who have been leaders in realizing we are real people, too, thank you. We have a say. We have power. Women sharing our ability to appreciate others, to sacrifice our purpose to build families or to be by someone’s side, is a willingness to comply with the order of life. We need to realize that someone should never dull our shine, that we are capable of so many things. We have contributed so much to this world, and will continue to do so. We are feared, but should be adored for our undying fire to make life a better place for everyone.

Hostess with the Mostest

We are in the Holiday and Hosting Season, and I love to host friends and family! Of course, these days it has to be few at a time and not often. However, I have discovered one of the most adorable treats to make, especially for the holiday season. I’ll be getting to a bit more of a life update below, but first a fun collaboration and snack idea comes first! What you have to have are snacks and beverages any time you invite anyone over your humble abode. I partnered with Gorton’s Seafood and immediately went to their website for some fun ideas, I loved the idea of making Breaded Butterfly Shrimp with little Santa hats! I walked over to my local Target and easily found the shrimp in the frozen section. All the other ingredients are Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basel, and of course a skewer to keep the look together. #sponsored #gortonsattarget @GortonsSeafood available at @Target

I’m writing this right after Thanksgiving, and Christmas is just around the corner. It’s been an extreme rebirth for me like a phoenix rising from it’s ashes, starting from the start of 2020 – but I have been acclimating even with the ups, downs, the punches, and having a positive outlook about reviving from all of the stresses and coming out looking forward to celebrating life day and day again – That is what it takes to be a human in this world today. I will say, I have not lost my love for people and my love for loving. Part of why I like to host is to make sure my apartment is pristinely cleaned (countability!!) and also the fun and pleasure to share my view, drinks and eats! Socializing is so important, and if you have a true bond and trust with those around you that you share your space with, that’s such a happy feeling. To share, to experience together, to enjoy. My boyfriend LOVED this snack that I made for us, and so I’ll certainly be making it again and again.

Phoenix rising: After facing multiple, painful setbacks, my mental health became a true worry. But what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, and I am so fortunate to say I have found my foundation again, and the future and current life is bright. One of the most difficult things we have to face every day is decision making, but being decisive can be so important in our development with ourselves and others. Believing in your path and following through is so important for your strength and happiness. Without our purpose, what would we be?

Reasons to be Thankful: To live in one of the most exciting cities in the world, to have my partner who can live and travel with me just like I do, family and friends who unconditionally love me and I love them. I truly enjoy living my dreams, and there are steps to each one of them. Love, Fashion, Travel, Lifestyle, Food – all of my favorites in the world. Cheers!

xoxo Catherine

Welcome to Miami

I came to Miami to visit a friend right as “quarantine” started to become a thing. I figured Miami might be a nicer place to have lockdown than life in Boston. I appreciate Boston, it’s my hometown, my family and friends, but it was no longer suiting me. I no longer felt like I could fit in, it’s a conservative city, and hunny, I am not. When I landed in Miami I just decided to stay. Then, I decided to make Miami my home base, and I hope to buy a condo in Miami Beach soon. The weather, the people, it’s all so freeing. Sure, no one is perfect, but no one is hiding their true colors here. I love how open people are with themselves and others. It must be in the water (or the weed LOL).

Why I needed a Fresh Start

I’m from Boston originally, I moved to NYC for 5 years, Germany for 3, Maine for 2, and Boston for 1 year. I’m half Spanish, quarter Japanese, Quarter English. I’m not a typical Bostonian, I am a mix of life. I’ve visited Miami 1-3 times a year for the past 10 years, I have always enjoyed my time here. I have always managed to move in with a man and that’s the city I would stay in. I was so dependent on my location based on who I was with romantically. I’ve decided not to cut my legs off anymore and just do me. This was the first time I was truly independent in my choice. Being single has been so much easier, especially for an alpha (relaxed) female. I plan to buy a condo here. How long did that take to decide? Only one night. I am someone who can make decisions quickly when they seem like the right choices. I have also made bad choices, for sure, but I have absolutely no regrets. I LOVE THIS LIFE.

I can live anywhere in the world, I work from my phone or laptop, I have FREEDOM and FUN every day of my life. This is the first time I feel like I found my city, my new home base. Sure, when travel opens up again, I will, but it feels like every day I’m in paradise over here. I think it’s like I found a soulmate in a place. So, guys, I have a new boyfriend and its name is MIAMI.

Hippie Life

I’ve always been spiritually centered. Growing up in a hippie life zone was great for my soul connectivity. A lot of people tell me that I’m on a centered level, and that I have so much wisdom inside me heart, mind and body. I truly empathize with others. I went to a school called “Waldorf” and it’s a philosophy of schooling based on “Rudolph Steiner”. Every day we would sing, recite poetry, draw, paint, go on nature walks, have posture and balance dancing lessons. Like, yeah, hippie life of the private school kids. I feel like I’m in that environment again, here in Miami. The people I’ve been meeting are wacky, weird, bold, fabulous, genuine, and showing their true colors immediately.

I will take a shirtless weirdo over a buttoned up stiff. I appreciate people showing me who they are much faster here, it must be the Miami heat, the sun just makes everyone more honest. Someone took my phone, someone took my towels, and someone took my salt and pepper. It’s like, so petty. Just be real and up front with me. No tricks necessary with me. Oh, and don’t worry I got all of those things back. I do not put the white flag up and surrender. Don’t mess with me biatch.

Making Life Long Friends 

I have been playing by the rules with making sure I am washing my hands, wearing a mask, etc. However, let me be honest, I haven’t been totally socially distancing. In small gatherings I am a social butterfly who loves the company of others in doses. I can truly say I have met friends for life, or at least we are bonded enough to just know that about each other. Thank you ❤ for being there for me. I truly appreciate you. I have so much love to give and I love receiving it back. I’m sending love to my friends who are far away as well, I miss you. Come visit 😉

Till next time, cheers! xoxo

A Fresh Start for 2020

I hope you all have been having a great new year in 2020! The stock market has been crashing, the coronavirus is scaring a lot of people, yet still life must move on. Let’s make the best of the life we have, and certainly my travels will not be stopping.

My birthday was February 25th, exactly the day of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. I went with a girlfriend of mine, and we had an absolute blast. The whole time was constant laughter, drifting through the packed streets, costumes everywhere, and the personalities all around were beaming and truly spreading cheer. I love the whole idea of walking down Bourbon St. and catching beads, the whole communication with the bead giver is so funny, it’s an exchange of brief love to give and to catch.

This blog post is going to kind of get into a darker place, but trust me, there is SO MUCH light as well. Maybe you can relate to both parts. Firstly, I’ll start with some positive steps I’ve been taking. I took a bit of a work sabbatical to focus on my mental health. I work about 20 minutes a day, and of course I hire people to keep things running for me and my clients. I finally started to work again and have been motivated, finally! It’s hard when you’re healing from some emotional and physical aspects of life, but I can truly say I’ve overcome a lot of obstacles, and am thinking with absolute happiness and  thoughtfulness.

When I left NYC back when I was 23 (now I’m 28), I went on a wild ride around the world, I lived in Germany, got married, moved to Maine, and now back in Boston after 10 years living away. I’ve been separated for over a year now, and luckily that chapter is soon coming to a close. Leaving NYC was the best solution for me, to focus on building “Catherine Wanders” as a fashion, travel and lifestyle blog/instagram. I also built a business “Social Perkz”, an influencer marketing agency. I will maintain these channels, because it gives me hope and strength, like I have found some sense of purpose. At this point, I’m ready for something bigger and better, and there’s a project I hope to commence within this year, I’ll keep you posted! I think it’s so necessary to make goals, accomplish them, and keep building your ideas. We are only as big as our thoughts, so I try to think “what’s next?”.

A New Year, Time for Self Growth

I really needed a restart button, so in a sense I’m actually counting my birthday as a restart to 2020. The first month and a half of 2020 was one of the worst of my life. From a breakup NYE day, to almost getting murdered a week later by strangers. I was bruised all over my body, bludgeoned knees, a cracked rib, and I had to go to the ER. I’ve really only been single for now 3 months in a matter of 6 years, so it’s a rude awakening to get back out there in the world as a single woman. But it’s a necessary process to get better on my own. I’ve had to heal emotionally and physically from both the breakup and the near death experience. I had some PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks. They weren’t life debilitating by any means! But I had never experienced that before, and it was scary to feel I was entrapped in my own head and body. Whenever I feel like I’m in a vicious cycle, like for instance Insomnia, I look to guided meditation and guided Hypnosis. I kid you not, the Hypnosis is an absolute GAME CHANGER. I did one session of guided Hypnosis for PTSD relief, here is a link to an example and it truly stopped my symptoms. I could have sought out professional help, but I truly want to train my mind to be able to recover through my own methods. Some people choose therapists or psychiatrists, some seek mind altering medicine, but I prefer to be who I truly am, ME. It feels so amazing to be out of it, but it takes a lot of introversion, self discovery, and to do your best to alleviate the pain – it must be done.

As mentioned before, I haven’t been single often, and someone just told me I’m a serial monogamous dater – I had noooo idea, because I feel like I’ve always wanted time to grow and be single. In the past, I’ve agreed to relationships that I was not ready for. It’s time to take time for myself, and not jump into anything. Since I’ve already been married, tried another relationship a month later, I just don’t want to make another mistake. I’m young, yes, but I just don’t want to give years of my life away anymore. It has been a social experiment to get out there and date again. It’s honestly a lot of fun! I’m learning so much about the dating field by practicing. I am totally open for another relationship when the time is right, and I’m honestly really impressed by who’s out there. Till then, I’ll focus on my new projects, and enjoying life! I just enjoy life all the time, that’s what I want forever.

I love to focus on the positives, and step away from negativity. I realized for so long I allowed negativity into my life. I have learned when to step away from people who are toxic, and be STRONG. It was international women’s day yesterday, I cheer for all of you ladies out there. And to all you men, you aren’t all bad 😉 and I’m happy to be learning that as of recent!

So what’s next? I’ll be taking a 2-2.5 week road trip with a friend from NYC going towards Colorado, and stopping at National Parks! This will be closer to the end of this month. I’ll also be going to Bali the next month. I’ve always wanted to go, and like I said before, nothing is going to stop me from what is calling me. I can just feel all these places beckoning me! Cheers to the new start xoxoxo thank you for reading!

Deciphering 2019: What I’ve learned, How I’ve Moved On, How I’ve Grown, and What’s to Come Next

Thank you all for visiting my blog! I haven’t posted much, but I have so much I’d like to catch you all up on, and feel free to reach out about anything going on with you. Below, you’ll find my recap of the past year, and I’d also say I’m thankful to be sponsored by UGG available at Zappos in this photo beneath, with my lovely and super comfy slippers. Now, let’s get on the with show, folks!

Zappos.com / UGG.com (slippers) Wearing Cupshe.com (dress)

First of all, Happy Holidays! Since Thanksgiving has been so recent, I’ve been doing my best to practice gratitude, even amidst mayhem both in amazing ways and some in destructive ways. Do you want the good news or bad news first? How about let us start with the good news (since most of you won’t want to read everything, let’s be honest).

Good News: I’ve found amazing partnerships this past year, both in @catherinewanders and also @socialperkz, my influencer marketing agency. I am just so thrilled to be my own boss, make my own hours, allow myself to enjoy life, see family and friends, date, travel whenever, wherever. I am determined to succeed and partner with companies that align with myself and my demographic (millennials and beyond).

A goal I made for 2019 was to find more partnerships with travel and tourism companies, and I am so thankful to have found it. To staying at luxury condos and hotels, to flying in helicopters over Manhattan, to going on a sunset yacht cruise through Istanbul, has been surreal. I am just so thankful that I found my niche in the travel world, finally. I have always thought to myself, that if I spend the most money on something in my life, that I’d like to master how to make that part of my career, and here you go, I’ve figured some of that out! Fashion, Travel, Lifestyle, Dining, Health and Wellness. I’m just really appreciative that my drive and understanding of where I stand is clear to those in the industry as well.

I’m extremely thankful that I can hire a team of likeminded individuals, who all understand me, and work remotely, live a similar life that I do, and we can all work together and bring each other up. Bonus? THEY ARE WOMEN! WOO! I have come to love working and supporting women, as women have also supported me. Although, I do not discount men at all, it just depends what you’re good at in life, and social media influencers, on average, are more female. The reason I outsource, is because I love to live a life of freedom, and when you realize your worth, you realize that happiness comes first, your time becomes precious, even if you’re just relaxing. That being said, I work strategically and realize when to turn the burner on or off, and for my mental health, I turn it off a lot. There will be more partnerships for Social Perkz starting 2020, so stay tuned!

I believe that family, friends, loved ones, are our true center, we mustn’t lose that in our lives, unless someone has crossed you to the point of no return. Know your limits, know your boundaries, know when to say “never again”.

Bad News:

Let’s start with business. I have been in the social media marketing agency for 6-7 years now. I started my business almost 2 years ago. I have to have both my instagram and Social Perkz, because the industry shifts marketing budgets to either influencers or agencies at different times. So, I have to do both, because if the market crashes and all my eggs are in one basket, I’m left with a very difficult task of building back up. I’ve had to learn that some months will be amazing and some will be a flop, and I have to be prepared for that. In a sense, it is similar to any sales business.

As some of you may know, 2019 has taken many turns. I went through a divorce (which isn’t over yet, PLEASE SOON!), got piled up with so many lawyer fees I couldn’t even imagine. As of now, it seems I’ve lost a life with someone, two homes, two dogs, two cars, and much more. POOF it’s gone. I hope that he can come to his wits and realize that I’ve also devoted my earnings, and my life, to building a life together, and do what is fair. But you know what? I feel strong, empowered, and ready to take on the world. I thought I was going to live a life of singleness for quite some time. Little was I aware, I was wrong, and I ended up in a new relationship soon after I left the marriage.

Good News: 

I can live anywhere in the world, since everything I do is from my camera, laptop, or iPone. After separating from my husband, I ended up moving back with my family in the Boston area. I decided to start dating for fun, to lift my spirits up, about 2 weeks later. After being single for a month, I was about to embark on a one month journey around the world. Specifically, Vancouver, Taiwan, Tokyo and Kyoto, Seoul, LA, Vegas, San Francisco, Napa, NYC.

Relationships: 

This year, I’m proud to say I’ve helped two friends get out of abusive relationships, taken from experience. I have researched about what are warning signs of abuse and why people stay in relationships that are toxic. If you’re with anyone you might think is abusive, please read this article here.  Those who want to understand why people stay in abusive relationships, here’s another interesting article that reveals the chilling truth.

To continue my relationship story with the new fellow, I met him the day before I left for my month travel journey. Our second date was in SF and Napa Valley for a wine tasting weekend. We talked every single day while I was away, and we decided it would be the perfect end to my travel spree. When we got back to Boston, naturally we just kept seeing each other, and we decided to make it official. His place was more convenient than living at my parents’ home, so it’s been a nice to feel like a city girl in Boston with a view over Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the Charles river. I work from home, so a view always cheers me up and makes me smile any time I look at it.

It has been invigorating to feel love and be loved. Intimacy, cuddles, long walks and talks, it all feels wonderful to be coupled. However, we’ve decided to take a step back, make sure we know what we’re doing before making any commitments, and see how we can improve ourselves. There are ups and downs in any relationship. Some people never fight, but some people are just quieter when it comes to their emotions. We are not quiet, either of us, so we need to listen and improve, and so at this point, that’s where we stand. I guess in a sense we are “complicated”. Wherever destiny leads is where we will go, but for now, we don’t know our futures. It’s a great thing to take a chill pill in expectations, especially when considering making a life commitment or not.

Thank you all for taking the time to read ❤

Here are some podcasts I’ve done this year:

Alexis Quiterio: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catherine-wagner-how-being-off-your-phone-creates-better/id1469424090?i=1000446202983

Lance Johnson: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1454395280?ls=1&mt=2

Michael Potorti: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/966-craft-beer-storm-29999356/episode/episode-69-catherine-wagner-52123069/

 

 

Life In Motion & Honesty

Wow, it’s been quite a long time since I’ve posted on my blog. In all honesty, this is more of a landing page to stay up to date on google and have a real place for people and companies to search me, and a place where I can keep my media kit. However, I’ve recently been hearing that some people don’t fully understand my purpose of all this until they meet me.

In Miami – photo by @thelingerielady

I posted an insta story and asked what people wanted to learn more about of me, and so here are the replies that I received, which I will answer 🙂

“What has traveling the world given you in the aspects of insight, culture and/or ideas?”

I believe that once you get the travel bug, it stays inside of you forever. I don’t believe everyone has to go and travel, some people are completely and pleasantly happy where they are, travel a bit, maybe once a year, to the same place. That’s where people get their routines from, work and regulation. My favorite thing to do is to work hard, but smarter not harder, it allows me to plan my day around doing things that I truly want to do.

Traveling has given me the idea that I should be a digital nomad, that I don’t have an office anywhere in particular, so that I can have the luxury of traveling, seeing friends and family, and doing activities I love to do each day that I want to. My husband is actually the same way, which is why I was drawn to him.

At The Breakers Mansion in Newport, RI with my husband @sasch2005

My absolute dream was to travel, find love, and become a blogger. I guess that blogger part has become more of an “influencer” but hey, that is life and innovation, but keeping things classic, with actual blogging is what I aim to do in 2019 and beyond. My caption that I posted today was “Life in Motion. Each day of the week always has something special about it, each Monday I wake up feeling like it’s Christmas, because of all the wonderful opportunities that are in my inbox. Cheers to the new week!” I truly feel this way each and every day, to be honest.

BALANCE, I don’t believe you always have to travel to feel full. You can also travel within your community, go to a different state for a day, visit a new restaurant, meet up with friends, all this is a sense of excitement and newness that is a similar sense to traveling. Going away and coming home makes both situations that much better. I love living in Maine, it gives me an opportunity to recenter, have a home base, and keep some sort of rhythm and develop friendships. However, I like the fact that my husband and I can just leave at any minute and go for months, if that’s what we want to do. That is freedom and spontaneity.

left to right: @morepositivy – me – @maeghan_efrench @ @taraevelync @katcynewski

It is so imperative to learn about different cultures, to learn about different socio-economic statuses of various countries, to try new food, to embrace the vibes of each city and country, and to research places to go with that delicious sense of anticipation. The more you travel, the more you realize what places seem interesting to visit or not, I use the same strategy when picking restaurants and activities near home. Learning other cultures helps you learn your own culture from a different perspective. It’s also wonderful to have a friend base when you do come back home, it’s a really comforting feeling.

I have absolutely loved everyone I have met in Maine, specifically Portland, where I’ve been so fortunate to have found such a wonderful, well rounded group of individuals. The women here are so aspirational, entrepreneurial, eager to help each other out, and are just so honest with their intentions. The vibe here is so uplifting, and hopeful of what the possibilities are of life. Movers and shakers indeed!

In Italy with @innayurkevich

“How do you pack for a fall/winter/spring/summer getaway or wardrobe essentials?

One of my favorite things is being able to partner with various fashion companies, I get to look through their website and hand select my favorite items. I used to buy clothing a lot, always heading to the mall, always online shopping, yet I worked hard for that while working as well. Now I feel my shopping addiction has paid off, and now I really only shop for clothing for my husband during the holidays. That being said,

I also started my company Socialperkz LLC in 2018, today it is 9 months old. I am so fortunate to have experienced the disappointment and the great growth. I think things take time like wine, once you tell the universe you have something special, the universe reacts in ways that really send positive vibes and opportunity. Word of mouth is always a key aspect of this, and so I advise anyone that keeping great relationships is key to everything. We’re not in it alone.

Fashion wise for winter getaways, a fabulous coat that will actually keep you warm, and a perfect pair of vegan leather boots from Thursdayboots.com.

When you pack, it’s always great to imagine exactly what you’ll be doing, and pairing your outfits and mixing and matching. Having separates is a great way to keep your outfit fresh, without making it look like a repeat all the time. When my husband and I went on a place to place trip to Florida, Bahamas, New Orleans, Texas, and Tennessee, I actually only had a backpack of clothing, shoes and bags! When I wore a dress, it was difficult to repeat that in multiple photos. But if you wear layers, it’s more helpful when taking multiple photos that day, so you can take off layers depending on where you are and what you’re doing.

Jacket @isawitfirst boots @thursdayboots (@thursdays)

One thing I’d like to add, this year I definitely want to make it a habit to get working out more often, however, I can’t simply have a gym membership, we almost have a full gym in our basement at home. What really gets me motivated is the environment surrounded by likeminded women, who all want to communicate and exorcise. I work from home, so I don’t need to commute at all, making the effort to get to Portland, Maine to work out is honestly a pleasure, since I enjoy the city and the people a lot.

At @bewellevents Be Well Fest

With @lucakholle at The Bar Method Portland

Recently when I’m invited to anything that involves exorcising (and maybe a glass of champagne after) I’m always up for it! I absolutely adore the motivation I get from friends. My friend Abby invited me to Bar Method, I said yes! When my friend Kat invited me to Be Well Fest, I said yes! It really helps to make an event out of it, like a hang out but with a fun, physical activity.

At @scalesrestaurantportland with @lucakholle

I honestly love going to restaurants, I have since I was very young. Going out, dressing up, feeling fancy, is one of the best feelings. More the merrier when it comes to ordering food at restaurants, and it’s always nice to have company that inspires you to go places. Especially living in Maine, where dressed up could mean a Flannel top. I honestly don’t think I’ve worn a pair of stiletto heels while living here, but maybe that’ll have to change.

Beach Vibes in Bahamas

So, what’s to come for 2019? It’s already been the best year I’ve ever had, and it’s only February! There’s so many exciting things to come.

-Continuing to build my company SocialPerkz, where I bring more collaboration opportunities to influencers and businesses. I’ve been a social media consultant for years, and so naturally I’ve built a contact database of over 1 million influencers. I often post about the companies that I also help through my company. The best way I’ve been growing is by recommendations, so I greatly appreciate all that has helped.

-Continue to be a social media consultant to my long term clients, and open to new clients to help manage the growth and overall appearance of their profiles.

-My husband has become a pilot this past year, and so we’re buying a plane. This means… plenty more travel to come! Many trips with friends included as well. There’s so much to see in this world, why not explore it?

-Make sure the life balance is there, including peace, tranquility, meditation, seeing family and friends often, and also doing more physical activity. Oh, and eat and drink well!

-My husband and I both work from home, and spend 24/7 together. I think that is a wonderful thing that not many couples can have, however, finding that extra girl time, space in my office, and having individuality is all so important to me. However, I think that making more romantic times with him will greatly benefit our happiness. Like any relationship or marriage, it takes work, understanding, devotion, and realizing that we are partners in life, that we have each other’s back, and we have to take each other most important.

Cheers to another blessed year!

 

 

Paradise Island & Nassau, Bahamas

I have always dreamt to visit the Bahamas, the crystal clear water and the warmth in winter, the ultimate vacation spot. Sometimes you need to take one of those trips where it’s blatantly all about relaxing, to soak up the sun and indulge in an all-inclusive.

What prompted this trip was my friend @InnaYurkevich who invited me to go with her to Florida. I do love Florida, but the particular spot she mentioned didn’t have the clear water and relaxing white sand vibes she thought it would be.  So I suggested we go to Bahamas after a thorough search of hotels, flights, and all inclusive options. Just before arriving I was able to partner with @riuhotels (Riu Paradise Island). Inna was totally up for the change, and it turned into an exciting last minute planned adventure! Their hotel really stood out because they had just done renovations, and their infinity pool overlooking the beach and ocean was as great in person as in the photos!

The breakfasts, and food in general, were all amazing! I’ve only been to a few all-inclusives in my life. I would love to live at one honestly, it makes things so convenient! Especially with such a wide array of food, restaurants, and areas to mingle during the day and night. They also reposted my picture below!

When I was packing for the trip I wasn’t completely prepared because my summer clothes were stored in the garage, since my husband @sasch2005 and I moved into our home 5-6 months ago. Luckily I could find just enough to bring along! Packing list essentials: bikinis, dresses, short tops and bottoms, versatile basics, beach bags, sandals, layering sweaters if the evenings get cold, and of course my camera! This trip I actually forgot my memory card, but since Inna has the iPhone X, we discovered the portrait mode and regular camera function looked great regardless.

 

Overall, the company and hotel were awesome! I loved having the beach right there, and just walking about a block down from the hotel main beach, the water and beach was less tourists.

We were so happy to get an upgraded room to a nice suite, overlooking the ocean!

The sunsets were always spectacular!

Ordering breakfast in bed at the Riu Palace Paradise Island Hotel was also quite convenient =)

 

ATLANTIS

Right next to the Riu Paradise Island Hotel is the Atlantis Bahamas Paradise Island Resort and Casino. We walked through the maze of casinos and gorgeous aquariums that seemed like an endless continuation. If you love sharks, fish, sting rays, turtles, they’re all there!

We really couldn’t complain about the marina filled with a lot of yachts of all shapes and sizes. Right before dinner it was such a nice way to stroll around and experience the livelihood of the scene.

I’ve been to the Atlantis in Dubai, but this is definitely similar! Dubai is known for making things above and beyond, but Bahamas certainly has high standards as well! I love the high archway between the buildings.

 

Overall, the experience was incredible and I would love to go back again. I had such a blast with my friend, Inna, also! You really get to know someone when you travel with someone, especially in the very beginning of a friendship! Looking forward to future destinations with her for sure. I have so many places on my list to see, that I hope I take some time to visit other places before heading back to the Bahamas! I would highly recommend this area in Paradise Island Bahamas if you’re looking for that indulgent vaca.

Northeast Influencers Meet

Recently I hosted an event for Northeast Influencers, a group I just created to bring together like-minded individuals in social media, photographers, models, and social media influencers. I created the invitation with Basic Invite and loved the whole process of editing my sample! You can make your own invitation here #sponsored

@iamnashnyc photography

These women are all wonderful people and off to do amazing things! To the left is @innayurkevich, she owns the eyebrow microblading studio @ibrowsbyinna and we met through social media when I wanted to get my brows done! We really hit it off and we just went to the Bahamas together, soon after meeting. I love that she is determined, very thoughtful, health conscious and caring.

In the orange sweater is Sarah @scmnally_13. When I first moved to Maine 5 months ago, I went to social media to try to find like-minded people. Her page is full of gorgeous portraits! She’s met with so many photographers and has built her instagram up so nicely. She’s wise beyond her years because she’s quite young!

Next is of course me, @catherinewanders, who created the Facebook Group “Northeast Influencers” to connect people together.

Last but certainly not least is @taysikes, she lives in Boston and models with agency Maggie Inc. Taylor is so friendly and a pleasure to be around. Her dreams of connecting people in the future will definitely come to fruition. She is born to be a connector! She invited photographers @andrewfosterphoto and @iamnashnyc who both took our photos!

@iamnashnyc photography

 

@andrewfosterphoto photographer

 

@iamnashnyc photography

A Year in Reflection to Welcome 2018

This year has been quite a whirlwind of changes. From living in Germany and traveling throughout Europe, to settling in Maine and starting a new home base. Thanks to my blog and instagram I am able to express my life by storytelling through pictures, videos and writing and sharing with you all. Not only has my personal life changed, but also my Blog and Social Media Management. I’m doing exactly what I love to do, help others achieve their goals, and also my personal blog of expressing my style, the places I like to go, the people I love to see like family and friends, how I decorate my home, what my dogs like to do, and so on.

There are a few different GOALS I’ve achieved in 2017, my future goals I’ll list at the end =)

FASHION BLOGGER GOALS from 2017:

My most recent collaboration with IFCHIC.com

MCQ – ALEXANDER MCQUEEN TOP

One of my goals for last year was to have brand partnerships that reached into the luxury market. Don’t get me wrong, I love fast fashion and the ability to keep up with trends as they come, but I also love the brand message that certain designer names hold like Alexander McQueen, a designer that will forever be one of my favorites.  It seems surreal that just a year ago I would dream to get such partnerships, and now it is becoming a reality that I absolutely want to continue to do.

 

BUYING A HOME:

Something tells me that this New Year of 2018 has many more dreams to be fulfilled, and this year was just the beginning of making it all happen. love being a homeowner with my husband, two dogs and my step daughter. I created a home tour video! YouTube home tour was not my finest creation, but check it out here, it’s been a while since I’ve made videos and I’ll definitely continue onto 2018.

MAKING NEW AND STRONG FRIENDSHIPS:

wearing RED – VALENTINO TOP

Another designer that will always be one of my favorites is VALENTINO – a brand that evokes luxury and dreams of success and class.

The end of 2017 helped introduce me to new friendships, something I’ve always held on to was the necessity of having friendships, I believe they help you connect, grow your horizons, and influence your actions for the better. I can’t wait for what 2018 has to offer!

MY BUSINESS:

Being a Social Media Manager, this year has really taught me so much on how to maintain business relationships, but there can also be a sense of friendship when you are consistently talking with people about their goals, daily life tasks, dreams and achievements.

GOALS for 2018:

• Embrace the journey, but land each opportunity and do more outreach
• Find a great way to relax: yoga, meditation, create new habits? Not sure what this will be yet
• Improve the communication with my husband – although we already work on this daily and I love him dearly
• Create more content for my Blog/Youtube/TRAVEL blogger content – i’ve never fully embraced the benefits of being a travel blogger – so watch my travels in 2018 =)!
• Expand my business to further than just myself – finding ways to leverage my resources and maybe bring on my first employee or intern.
• Become more professional with my business – finalizing my website
• just OWN IT – must know my self worth – boost that inner self confidence

 

 

First Snow and Waterproof Boots – Sponsored by Zappos

The first snowfall is always magical and exciting, at the same time I’m thinking “autumn didn’t last long enough!”. The holiday season is certainly made better with a touch of a White Christmas.

Luckily I have been sponsored by Zappos and UGG boots just in time for the snow. My UGG boots are waterproof, stylish, and feel so comfortable. Everyone compliments me on my waterproof boots when I’m out and about.

The lining is so soft and warm, I never felt my toes cold at all while in the snow. My favorite color is the black, but the boot is available in 3 colors, you can check them out here. My husband also loves to see me in them, he thinks I look especially attractive in these moderately large boots! Haha =)

Our German Shepherd Blacky is such a goofy dog, and absolutely loves to play in the snow! I am certain that winter is his favorite time of year.

Although I love the winter, stay tuned because I’m actually off with a girlfriend to a tropical place coming soon!

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Before the snow hit, I wore my other pair of UGG boots, the Classic with a bow. I have never had a pair of UGG boots before but I always wanted them! It’s now a classic in my life and I’m happy to keep it in my shoe collection, especially for fall and winter to keep cozy.