HOW BOLD ARE YOU

March 21, 2018 janet gunn

We Go Big We Go Bold

Last year Chico's reached out to me for a little social media love and since then it's been an exciting experience filled with love. In February, Chico's invited a group of influencers to NYC to meet and chat about being a woman, being bold and what that means. We celebrated how it's not about growing old, it's about growing bold and really enjoying this journey of living our life without rules that have been placed upon us. These meetings have led to beautiful relationships and lots of fun! Not only is the Chico's team of women wonderful, smart and supportive, they're open and ready to blow the doors open to Living Your Best Life. It's not all about clothes, it's the message. Below are a few fun photos of their Spring Launch, How Bold Are You Campaign at Joe's Pub along with speeches from influential women including Former Editor in Chief of More Magazine, Lesley Jane Seymour and award winning actress, Tracee Ellis Ross and a special performance by actress and singer, Molly Ringwald.

Tracee Ellis Ross - Breaking down another societal taboo, Chico’s emboldens women to embrace their age by sharing how bold they are. Chico’s discovered that most of the women interviewed don’t feel middle-aged at all nor do they define themselves by their age. They enjoy expressing themselves through fashion and living life on their terms. Check out the video.

Photos: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Chico’s

Yes, that's Molly Ringwald from Sixteen Candles who recently turned 50. Molly performed with her band on stage here at Joe's Pub

NYC MARCH 12: Lesley Jane Seymour speaks onstage at Chico’s #HowBoldAreYou "Our goal is to inspire women everywhere to join together in the next necessary movement: The fight against ageism."

NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 12: Bloggers (L-R) Tonya Parker, Jamie Lewinger, Lisa Hale and Susan Kanoff

Tanya Foster, Elaine Davis, Catherine Grace O’Connell, Deborah Boland

Chico’s celebrates every moment in a woman’s life and encourages her to grow bolder rather than older.

Chico’s President, Diane Ellis: “We are a company for women, run by women, celebrating women. Our stated mission is to support fabulous, fun, and fearless women in all that they do. We are uniquely positioned to speak authentically on aging with positivity."

Thank you Chico's for bringing us all together. Getting to know you and all these beautiful women has been a gift and a daily dose of inspiration. #wegobigwegobold

Photos: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Chico’s)

DISCONNECT TO RECONNECT - CARAVAN OUTPOST

March 6, 2018 janet gunn

Melissa Meyers and I "coolin" our heels in front of LaLa

About a year ago I was flipping through a magazine and read an article on The Caravan Outpost. Looking at the photos left me feeling quite peaceful and, yes...longing to reconnect. I tore out the page, put in on my "places to visit" vision board and I'm delighted to say I made it here. My friend and blogging partner Melissa Meyers jumped at the chance to visit this Ojai Oasis and we've teamed up with some of our favorite brands for our Caravan getaway.

Caravan opened in July 2016 and is practically booked year round. It's become a destination favorite here in Ojai to disconnect and reconnect with that slow living and appreciate everything around you. Maybe you're a stargazer a hiker or a lover of all things earthy, being in the moment comes easy once you hit this Caravan community.

Madewell Sweater / Moussy Jeans / ClareV Bag / Brixton Hat

Being from Texas, this place is tugging on my cowgirl roots. At the Caravan entrance, you'll find an opportunity for a bit of retail therapy.

What to do: Nothing...How great is that!! You know the saying, "It's the little things." Guests travel to Caravan Outpost to get back to the basics. Caravan offers packaged deals and day excursions, including surfing and rock climbing, as well as wine tastings. Take a look at their Instagram page at the amazing events...great spot for a special occasion.

Tucked away in this 1959 Land Yacht, my home away from home is Sam, a fine crafted detailed airstream. The kitchen is complete with a fridge, sink, teapot mugs and a small prep area to meet your dining needs. Full-size showers and bathrooms are available in a separate building. Behind each airstream is a private lounge with two handmade chairs a tree stump along with a hammock. Parking is available onsite and yes wi-fi if you need it.

Hot Tea & Bee Gees on the Victrola record player

We jumpstarted our day with breakfast at Ojai Café Emporium. Downtown is a 10-minute walk, yet the lush surroundings feel like you're miles away from any kind of city life. What a great place to get inspired, clear your head and discuss creative ideas as you "plant the seed" If you're looking for a unique getaway location with your friends, family or yourself here it is. 4-legged friends are welcomed.

Fierce & Regal Tights / Minnie Rose Hat / Emi-Jay Sweatshirt

Happy Trails to you! The Ojai Valley Trail begins right next to the site, and bikes are provided for your pleasure.

Wrap up your evening by the campfire while roasting marshmallows, sipping wine and chatting with your neighbors. If grilling over the fire fits your fancy Caravan has cast iron skillets for your inner chef. Don't forget to look up at the stars.

Cozy in my Bedhead PJ's. I had a marvelous night's sleep. Sam is equipped with Ipad holders on each side of the bed. Heat and AC are available.

You'll find yourself having a unique experience on the Caravan grounds. Only an hour and thirty minutes away from Los Angeles and soon you're standing amongst this earthy oasis.

My neighbor Melissa and I enjoying a morning cup of coffee made by Evan. Thanks Evan!

To the folks at Caravan Outpost, Thank you! We sure did enjoy hanging around and being part of this charming Ojai community. I look forward to returning with my family and my four-legged son and sharing this authentic experience with them.

What to take: Honestly you don't need much but there are plenty of areas for a little photo magic and the sunset provides that magic hour. The temperature can be warm during the day and chilly at night. It happened to be quite cold when we were there, the campfire was a treat.

The brands we traveled with: The items that keep you happy & cozy. Pack everything in Heys Luggage. The marble print is a nice change and the suitcases have a lot of room. Bedhead Pajamas make a great conversation starter. Melissa and I enjoyed lounging around in their happy prints. Another must-have is this city-chic hat from Lovely Bird. I stayed warm in a Madewell sweater and a cozy beanie from Minnie Rose. I also packed my go-to sneakers from Golden Goose and my must-have bag and comfy sweatshirt from Clare V. Don't forget to pack workout clothes as you can go on a bike ride or hike. I brought my favorite pieces from Fierce and Regal. We also brought our Instytutum products because there's always time for a "mask party" and the most amazing smelling roll-on perfume oil from The Sage Lifestyle. My favorite is the Onyx. Now when I wear my Sage oils I instantly think of my time at Caravan Outpost... what a lovely thought.

Where to eat: Around the campfire or around the corner. Dinner can be catered from some of the local restaurants. We opted to walk to one of the local places, (it took about 15 minutes) AZU Restaurant and Ojai Brewery. Azu was delicious with plenty of choices, especially salads and tacos. Other restaurants nearby include Casa De Lago and Agave Maria's Restaurant and Cantina.

When to go: Anytime you feel the need to let go, relax and reconnect with others and yourself. Caravan consists of 11 trailers with prices that start at $179. per night, the Airstreams include a mix of vintage and new trailers, all of which are 28 feet long. They are extremely clean along with the grounds area.

To my travel mate Melissa, here's to the first of many adventures to come. I'll drive...you post... I'm always grateful for our time together xoxo

Thanks for reading, please send me an email if you have any questions. I highly recommend Caravan Outpost for you, your family and events.

xoxo Janet

COZY SWEATSHIRTS & SNEAKERS

February 27, 2018 janet gunn

Who doesn't love to be comfy yet chic at the same time? I know I enjoy the comfort of a cozy sweatshirt and there are so many fun designers to choose from. Get creative with styling your sneakers, I do believe they're here to stay. These days...I go for the comfort. In the above photo, I took this Clare V sweatshirt and added a Hermès S

I love Golden Goose sneakers and wear mine constantly. I also just purchased this Clare V sweatshirt and LOVE it. I've put together a few other favorites that you can shop!

Another sweatshirt favorite of mine is from Emi-Jay. These girls really know comfort, along with nailing that color that leaves us blushing.

I always pack a sweatshirt and a Hermés scarf, (I do love collecting them.) Hotels, restaurants and airplanes always blast the air conditioner, and the scarf is good to wrap around your nose and mouth! Goodby germs & foul odors. Hermès scarves are pricer than most but they create forever pieces that retain a high resale value.