Anastasia Cahill
Sustainable Lifestyle and Wellness Blogger | Nashville, TN
anastasia cahill
Croatia Travel Guide: Split, Brač + Dubrovnik
Ana Cahill • October 13, 2024
I’ll be honest - Croatia was never at the top of my travel bucket list, mostly because I didn’t know anything about it. But fortunately for me, it was at the top of my sister’s, and I don’t possess the will power to say no to a European adventure so, a few months of planning and extra companions later, her, my dad and I and our partners embarked on the most incredible trip that I will cherish for a lifetime.
We spent 10 days hopping around Croatia and got to experience so many beautiful places with such rich and magical history - it truly felt like being in another world.
When I told people we were going to Croatia, most responded with something along the lines of “Oh that’s cool, why Croatia?” like it was a very random destination, and it kind of was, but I’m so grateful we got to experience it while it’s still considered a “hidden gem” of Europe. A few years ago we visited Italy in September, and I stand firm in my belief that it’s the best time of year to visit because it’s after the crowds, but the weather is still beautiful and not so brutally hot you’re uncomfortable walking around all day.
Because Croatia isn’t as popular of a tourist destination *yet*, we had to do a lot more digging and winging it than we have for some of our previous trips, and there’s definitely a fun element to that, but I wanted to share this guide to give you a good starting point should you decide to visit Croatia - and believe me, you absolutely should. (Shoutout to my sister for doing the majority of the planning for this trip - we would be nowhere without her patience. 🙏🏼)
Keep reading for all the details on where we stayed, what we ate, and what we did in each city we visited, along with my packing list and some tips of things I wish I brought or knew before visiting!
Stop #1: Split
We left Chicago on a Tuesday night, and arrived in Split late Tuesday afternoon. We had less than two full days here, but we made the most of it before hopping on a ferry to our next destination.
One of my personal favorite parts of Croatia was the stray cats everywhere, and I mean everywhere.
Where We Stayed
We stayed at the AC Hotel by Marriott and it was the tallest, most modern, most "American" looking building in the whole city - it made me giggle.
We ate several meals at the hotel restaurant and snuck in hot tub and sauna sessions between all of our activities. The views from our rooms were also great! We noticed on our last night that they have a rooftop, but it was closed—you'll have to report back if you stay here!
What We Did
Our first night we just got dinner and drinks at the hotel bar which had a patio with pretty views of the city.
On our second day, we did an excursion that took us on an hour bus ride to Krka National Park, where we hung and explored most of the day before stopping for a wine tasting and heading back to Split. This is supposed to be one of the best national parks in the world, and it didn't disappoint!
After the park, we ate dinner at Bokeria per my boyfriend's recommendation from his last trip to Split and we loved everything, especially the steak tartar. We walked back to our hotel and stopped for gelato at Emilia, and then a quick slot session at some sketchy spot that you could definitely skip.
What We Ate
On our way out we stopped at a local place my friend recommended, Bistro Ciba, and we felt a little out of place at first but the food was incredible and every seat in the place was full by the time we left.
Stop #3: Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik was our final stop, and probably the most well-known / touristy city in Croatia. It's "King's Landing" from Game of Thrones, and has some of the coolest architecture I've ever seen. I think it was just how our flights worked out, but it was ideal that we flew out of Dubrovnik so we didn't have to backtrack or spend any extra time in transit.
Where We Stayed
Another gorgeous rental we found on VRBO. It offered stunning views of the Adriatic and easy access to Dubrovnik’s attractions, along with a pool and ocean access.
My only note on this place is to read the fine print about the guest house that *isn't* included unless requested.
What We Did
Our first night in Dubrovnik we rode
the cable car up to catch breathtaking views of Dubrovnik from above and I would absolutely recommend doing this. We ate dinner at the restaurant at the top and my dad is still talking about the lamb chop.
The next day, we explored the historic Walls of Dubrovnik, walking along the ancient ramparts for stunning panoramas of the city and sea. Then we took the Game of Thrones Tour and even the people in our group who hadn't seen it enjoyed learning about the history + how they turned the city into Kings Landing. After dinner, man's and I walked back up the wall to the basketball court at the top of it which I have to say was a super cool view of the city at night. After that we explored some of the local pubs and if you're looking for nightlife - the Irish pubs are where it's at.
The next day we recovered from our hangovers by the pool before heading back into Old Town to explore and shop.
What We Ate
Panorama Restaurant & Bar: A spectacular spot located at the top of the cable car ride with incredible views and delicious seafood.
Cave Bar More: Drinks inside a natural cave bar, a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Konoba Pupa: Relaxed drinks and amazing tuna tartar.
Marco Polo Restaurant: A delicious final dinner in Dubrovnik, featuring local cuisine in a cozy setting.
Things I'm Glad I Brought:
- A big tote bag - between everyone wanting to bring layers, cameras, water bottles, etc. and shopping throughout the day, having a big bag to tote around was so helpful. Here's the one I brought from Amazon!
- Layers - the weather was beautiful most days, but rained a few times and got cooler at night. I ended up wearing a sweater more than expected so I would absolutely recommend bringing options.
- Gym shoes - I brought cute shoes and ended up wearing my gym shoes the whole trip. They looked just fine and were ideal for all the walking. Here are the ones I wore!
- Umbrella - it rained a few times while we were there so this was nice to have!
- Waterproof Phone Case - this was an impulse Amazon purchase but I loved having it for taking photos in the ocean and not worrying about my phone on the boat or beach. Here's the link to the one I purchased + loved!
- An itch stick - I packed this because I am so prone to getting bug bites, but the bugs were surprisingly bad especially in Dubrovnik so I would recommend bringing either topical itch relief and/or allergy pills.
- Face + body lotion - between the sun and salt water, I was DRY on this trip and went through literally all the lotion I brought by the end of the trip. I used these little guys from Amazon to make my regular products travel size!
- Tide Stick - I brought a lot of white linen and drank a lot of wine, these things were truly the hero of the trip.
- Portable Charger - all the photos +.videos and data roaming was draining our phone batteries and having a couple to pass around our group was definitely necessary. My sister's boyfriend introduced us all to this magnetic one and we're obsessed.
Things I Wish I Brought:
- Water shoes - I was not expecting all of the beaches to be rock instead of sand and I would have felt so much better walking in the water with water shoes on.
- Bug spray - I remembered the itch stick, but not the repellent. Would absolutely recommend bringing this especially for the evenings.
- Exfoliator - I sounded so dramatic by the end of the trip talking about how the only thing I was excited to get home to was my skincare because I was so dry.
Shop The Fits
I'm a firm believer that the greatest gifts in life are time and the people you spend it with and I couldn’t be more grateful to have shared this experience with some of my favorite people. 10/10 would recommend.
There’s no better time than the fall to give your home a refreshing reset. Fall cleaning is the perfect opportunity to tidy up, reorganize, and prepare your space for the cozy months ahead. Whether you’re welcoming holiday guests or simply wanting to enjoy a more serene and organized home, this fall cleaning checklist will help you tackle all the essential tasks. From decluttering to deep cleaning, this checklist includes all of my seasonal "to-do's" that will leave your home feeling warm, peaceful, and ready for the season.
Last month, me and my girls took a much-needed girls trip to the beach and had the best time laying in the sun, lounging in the hot tub, and eating. (because let's be honest - what else are girls trips for?) We spent just under 72 hours in Miramar Beach, but did our best to hit as many cute shops and delicious restaurants and cafes as we could, so I put together a little guide if you're planning on visiting the area this summer! It's only a 7 hour drive, or hour long flight from Nashville, and legitimately the cleanest beach I have ever seen. If you fly into Pensacola like we did, I'd recommend renting a car for getting to the beach and having more options for getting around. However, we did walk a ton of places and totally could've just gotten a ride from the airport. The ~vibes~ in Miramar are super low-key, making it the perfect place to chill and unwind with your partner or gal pals. 10/10 would recommend. Watch my recap reel here for a quick overview of our trip!
'Tis the season for resetting, organizing and and getting rid of all the things that no longer serve you - physically and metaphorically. A recent study actually found that 78% of people notice a boost in wellbeing when their home is tidy, and 53% say a clean home helps them feel productive. I put together a checklist that includes a complete list of things you clean in your space + in your virtual world over the next few weeks - grab it for free below!
If you know me, you know I love to hoard a container and trinket of any sort, partially because “I might use it”, but also because I hate throwing things in the trash. But one of my goals for this year is to reduce clutter in my space, so I’m finding thoughtful ways to get rid of things, like TerraCycle’s All-In-One Zero Waste Box. This little box can be used to recycle all the little random things I usually can’t —like clothing, old craft supplies, skincare bottles, coffee pods, and even things like home decor and string lights 🙌
Once it’s full, you just seal it up and ship it back to be recycled into new things! (which makes me feel a lot better about parting with my collection of endless odds and ends)
For more info about how it works and to check out all of the other things you can recycle with @terracycle, head to their page! (You can use code ANA20 for 20% off your first box!)
#TerraCycle #RecycleEverything #ad
one thing about me is I’m gonna find the vibes + the bathtubs wherever I visit 🐅
thanks for being the best hosts in Austin, @thefrancesmoderninn!
#austinhotel #austintexas #austin #austinhotels
Between getting sick and traveling 2025 got off to a slow start, but that’s kind of what this season is for - resting, resetting and reevaluating.
January has been a month of planning, getting inspired, and honing in on what’s really important, & I’ve got a real good feeling about what’s to come 💫
snaps from my stay at @thefrancesmoderninn 🎞️
this was by far the most intentional, cozy, and unique hotel I’ve ever stayed at. it felt like staying at a cool Airbnb with all the perks of being at a hotel, and my vintage loving heart is still obsessing over all the moody details. (& the birthday card all the staff signed 🥹)
📸: @peterisbald
#AustinStay #TheFrancesModernInn #AustinHotels
a little birthday spa day at @hotelviata 🤍
We took a drive up into the hills last weekend while I was in Austin to check out this Tuscan-inspired gem I found on @resortpass, and the vibes did not disappoint. Massages, margs, a hot tub session, and lunch with a view was the perfect way to bid farewell to 28.
10/10 would recommend escaping to @hotelviata next time you’re in Austin 🥂💫
#austinhotel #austinspa #austinthingstodo #hotelviata #resortpass
cheers to 2024 🥂
looking through photos from the year this morning, I was once again reminded that no matter what life throws at you, in the end the only thing that really matters are the people around you. here’s to another year of having fun + spreading love + trying to figure it all out, together 🤍💫
@victoriassecret @vspink #VSPartner #faves
‘tis the damn season 🎄🎁
november diaries 📔☕️🧡
@victoriassecret @vspink #VSPartner #faves
training season | @joshkranich 📸
november mood board ☁️♡
a month of tricks + treats indeed 👻
Hell is a (not so) teenage girl 🔪
back to basics ☁️
📸: @dearfloyd
Sights, ships, + snoozes: Croatia edition 🛥️⚓️☀️
Finally put together a little travel guide from our 10-day Croatian adventure complete with where we stayed, what we did and what we ate 🐠 10/10 would recommend / do again {links in my story!}
European September 🇭🇷 ⚓️
some favorites from the sweetest, most peaceful few weeks with my people 🤍 #croatia
nothing like a few weeks of absolute chaos to remind you how lucky you are to be surrounded by love and laughter and joy and little moments of sweetness 🤍
boats, besties + bands: a july saga 🤘🏼⚓️🤍
long live 🐄👯♀️ @windycitysmokeout
sweet july beginnings 🇺🇸⚓️
moments of joy from the june camera roll ⚓️⚾️🌱☕️
may in review ⚓️⚾️🚗🍪
april adventures 🌼🦙🌿
mission accomplished 🥹👯♀️ happy birthday bestie, @laney_cahill 🤍
the girlies do love st.pat’s weekend ☘️
winter archive part 2: a series of favorite moments 💌
an ode {+ hopefully goodbye} to winter 🌲✌🏼
I just really love love 💌
girlhood 🎀
my 2024 in’s + out’s for a year of more connection, simplicity, + joy 💫
through the highs and lows, the best part of 2023 was the people I shared the moments with. on to the next 💫
my two moods for the rest of the year 🪩💃🏻🛁🍷
📍@thegraychi
october 🍂🍪 treats 🍬🍁
last weekend’s retreat at @hotelemc2 ft. delivery robots + my favorite shower ever ☕️
this time last year 📍
one of my favorite parts of this trip was the reminder that we don’t need to be, and we shouldn’t be, rushing through our lives.
we deprive ourselves of so much beauty, exploration, and connection when we spend all of our moments trying to get to the next one quickly.
heading into this season with my only intention being to slow it down, & soak it up.
“I notice that autumn is more a season of the soul than of nature.”
entering my favorite season feeling refreshed, inspired, & really dang happy. welcome, october 👻
a sweet sweet september
the older I get, the more I’m reminded that the best things in life are the people you share it with.
no one else I’d rather be stuck on a roller coaster or scared to death with than my day ones 🎢
postcards from august (land edition) ✨
postcards from august (sea edition) ⚓️
pizza, chicken tendies AND ice cream?? say less, @eatdoughbird 😋
the ultimate girls night with my cuties last night at #doughbird 🤍#ad
music, friends, sunshine, babies, and other things that make my soul happy #july
How many probiotics does it take to undo a weekend at a music fest? Asking for myself 🤣
I’ve been taking these @lunakaigummies probiotic/prebiotic supplements for the last few months and they’ve become such a crucial part of my routine, especially when I’m running around and eating and drinking all the things. 💃🏻 These gummies are made with only natural ingredients, and help you maintain healthy digestion by giving your gut all the beneficial bacteria it needs, which can help with things like reducing inflammation, improving your skin health, and increasing the levels of vitamins and minerals in your body.
Here’s to the little things that make a big difference, & make you feel like you’ve got your life a little bit together 😝
#probiotic #guthealth #sustainablebusiness #womenownedbusiness #wellness
it’s laughter & grins & no tomorrow to win 🎸 until next year, @windycitysmokeout #windycitysmokeout
Something about a clean home on a Monday morning really makes you feel like you’ve got your life together 🍓
Been running around like crazy the last few weeks & there’s nothing more refreshing than a quiet weekend spent catching up on all the things. Here’s to a productive week, friends!
#koalaeco #nontoxiccleaning #sustainableliving #cleanproducts
(2)7 summers up north🌲🇺🇸☀️
{swipe for accidental slow mo chaos + the tiniest life jackets you’ve ever seen}
thnks fr th mmrs, june 🤘🏼☀️
yacht girl summer ⚓️
the perfect summer kick-off weekend with my girl.
The art of growing into yourself.
Spending time back in Chicago the last few weeks has had me feeling all kinds of nostalgic, and reflecting on all the past versions of myself, and how cool it is that everyday we get to choose the ways in which we evolve, or stay the same.
It makes me giggle to look back on younger me, who was so afraid of not being the “same”, I wanted to fit in, wanted to make everyone happy, wanted to do what I was “supposed” to be doing, and the older I’ve gotten, the more I’ve realized how freakin’ boring that is.
If I could tell that version of me one thing, it would be that becoming the person you want to be, and getting the things you *really* want doesn’t come without getting uncomfortable, or without doing hard things, but living a life that feels true to yourself is worth every risk you have to take to get there. It’s such a gift to get older, and have time to change and choose and learn and grow, and these days there’s nothing I’m more afraid of than wasting that.
📸 @kyliehullstudio
Last week I wore these boots to a softball game in downtown Chicago, and that’s on learning to embrace every version of yourself 🤠
Bottoms up to the joy found in between the pieces of life that are ever-changing, and the things that never will 🥂
what’s the definition of success? listening to what your heart says 🏙️☀️
may moments ft. a big mood on slide 10
@tacobell + recycling = two of my favorite things 🌮 #ad
I have used @terracycle for years to recycle all kinds of things that normally can't be recycled like shampoo bottles, toothpaste tubes, etc., and their newest program just launched to help keep sauce packets out of landfills, and instead turn them into things like picnic tables + home and garden products! This new @tacobell recycling program is free for anyone to take advantage of, and allows you to recycle sauce packets from anywhere, not just Taco Bell!
It seems like a small thing, but it adds up, and to me, that's what sustainability is - still enjoying the things you love, but finding ways to do them just a little better. ♻️ #TerraCycle #RecycleEverything
in my peace + simplicity era 🌱
📸 @kyliehullstudio
In a season of practicing grace.
I’m a stereotypical oldest child, capricorn, 3w2, - I love a plan, and organization, and getting shit done, and getting it done perfectly. 💃🏻
Last week a friend said to me “you never seem stressed” and I just laughed, because even though I still often am, her comment was evidence that I’ve gotten so much better at choosing my battles, and accepting things for what they are instead of what I wanted them to be.
There’s so much relief in learning to adapt, and giving yourself grace for not being a super human. 🤣 We can’t make more hours in the day, we can’t control other people, and sometimes “good enough” is actually good enough.
Control what you can, give yourself and others grace for the things you can’t. We’re all just doing our best + trying to keep our sanity in the process 🤍
#mindfulliving #sustainablefashion #bohodecor #vintageoffice
“What if your markers of success were how much sleep you got last night? How much time you spent with the people you love? How many sunsets you watched? How much you belly laughed?”
just a few of april’s successes 🤍
happy earth day 🌎 it’s such a gift to get to experience all of its magic, and it’s our job to serve it the best we can, so it can keep serving us & all of the beautiful life around us. we’re not here to live on it, we’re here to live with it. 🤍
earth day archive from one of my favorite places on it 📍 sustainable set via @reformation #earthday #amalficoast
“Instead of managing your time, manage your energy. If it drains you, it's not for you. If it energizes you, it's a clue.”
At the beginning of this year, I picked the word “simple” as an umbrella of sorts for my goals for the year. I’ve spent a lot of time trying to maximize my time, and create more of it for the things that bring me the most joy.
But what about all those things that might not have a big space on our calendar, but take up a whole lot of space in our minds & drain us of our energy. Those things we agreed to that we didn’t actually want to do, the people or jobs that aren’t serving us anymore, negative beliefs, the list goes on.
Constantly seeing how other people spend their time can be useful at times, but just because something looks good for someone else’s life doesn’t mean it will feel good for yours.
Listen to your energy, listen to your body. A note for myself for the week and also for you 🤍
nothing sets my soul on fire quite like spring 🌻
Post-holiday weekend, trying to get my life together, how ‘bout you?
If I learned anything in my years battling health issues, it’s that a healthy gut is crucial to so many other functions in your body, and it’s much easier to do the little things to care for it daily than try to repair it after the fact.
🍋 warm lemon water helps flush toxins out of your body & rehydrate you
🍬 probiotics & prebiotics boost the good bacteria in your gut that aids in helping you digestion & absorb nutrients from your food
👟 movement helps your body wake up and get all you systems moving! (bonus points if you do it outside)
Take care of your gut y’all - your skin, immune system, belly, etc. will thank you 🍋
#probiotic #morningroutine #sustainableliving #naturalsupplements #lunakai
This has been a tough and strange week.
It feels silly to share my breakfast or the show I went to with so much heartbreak in our community, and impossible to find words that will help or understand the “why”.
But times like these also serve as a reminder that life is so fragile, and we don’t have forever to spend time with our people, to do the things we love, to chase the things we desire.
Yesterday I was feeling guilty about spending the afternoon hiking and getting lunch with my mom while she’s in town while I have so many things on my to-do list, but those “to do’s” are always going to be there. There are always going to be more things to get done, more work to do, but there won’t always be more time.
5 years from now you won’t remember the deadlines, you’ll remember the moments spent gathered with friends, watching the sunrise from your favorite spot, getting snowed on in March just for a little holiday magic.
The most valuable things we have in life is our relationships with others, and finding (and creating) little moments of joy every chance we get. At the end of the day, it’s the little things and the little moments that mean the most. Take the time to stop the rush and hustle, and cherish them. 🤍
this week’s palette ☘️🌿🐢🥑 because I’ll take any excuse ever to be ~festive~.
——
#sustainablefashion #thriftfinds #thriftedfashion #diyclothingrack
sunday reminders for the week ahead:
- there are countless things you can’t control, and trying just drains the energy you could be spending on the ones you can. Focus on those.
- on the list of things you can’t control is how people perceive you, be the person you want to be for you.
- if you’re looking for things to be sad or stressed or angry about, you’re going to find them. if you look for things that bring you joy, and make you feel alive, you’re going to find them.
- asking for help where you need it is strength, not weakness.
- no matter how well somebody might know you, nobody can read your mind. tell them how you feel.
- there’s nothing more healing than fresh air and sunshine
- nobody has it all figured out, just do the things that make you happy.
- if it makes sense to you, that’s enough. you don’t owe anybody else justification.
- the person with the most power to change your life is the one in the mirror staring back at you.
do no harm, but take no shit. be you, do you, for you.
“the real growth is becoming more of yourself.”
I made my word for 2023 “simple” because I wanted to focus on removing the excess from my life, the “fluff” that takes time away or distracts from the things that are really important to me.
Society and social media have this sneaky way of telling us what we’re supposed to want, and if we’re not mindful of it, we end up with houses full of crap we don’t need, spending our hours striving towards goals to impress or satisfy other people, spending our dollars and time on things that look good instead of feel good.
To me growth isn’t just “more”, it’s more of the right things, more of the things that fulfill *you*. It’s letting go of the opinions, the people, the stuff, the habits, that don’t move you towards the life you want for yourself. I’m learning that real growth is moving towards the things that feel most “me”, and that it’s okay if those things change over time. Life is short and weird and full of things we can’t control, make as much of it as you can yours. 🌻
winter is for hiding from the world and eating treats and intimate gatherings and soaking up every small pocket of sunshine
been in a quiet session of restoration, reflection & planning and I kind of think that’s what winter is for.
time is the most valuable gift we’re given, use it for the things that fill you up, that fill others up, that future you will thank you for. 🤍
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#mindfulliving #selfcare #dailyintentions #sustainableliving #nashville
january was a much needed month of rest, reflection & recalibrating. as someone who often struggles to slow down, here’s a little reminder that sometimes it’s exactly what your mind and body need. 🤍
💅🏻 fresh february nails @alexiskahn
👙 you can use the code “PELAANA” for 15% off any @pelacase
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#sustainableliving #pinterestnails #compostablephonecase #pelacase #mindfulliving
spicing up my space with a new print from
@saintmaide & @kyliehullstudio 🤍 there’s just something so sweet about filling your space with intentional things created by talented friends, & I can’t wait to build a gallery wall around this!
You can use the code “ANA15” for 15% off any of their prints at the link in their bio!
#unboxing #artprint #smallbusiness #womenownedbusiness #gallerywall
my word for 2023: simple.
the older I get, the more I learn that that best things in life are the simple things, and that we as humans have a bad habit of making most things more difficult than they need to be.
instead of resolutions for the new year, I’m a big fan of setting intentions, and focusing on things you want to feel more of, instead of specific things you want to attain or accomplish.
for 2023, my biggest intention is simplifying every area of my life, to create more time, energy and space for the things that *really* matter.
from my spaces & routines, to my business and relationships, this year is about simplifying, and doing less with more intention.
telling you all here for accountability 🤣 & to share some of the tools I’m using & changes I’m making along the way in case you could use them too.
here’s to a new year of creating the life that feels best for you. 🤍
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#newyear2023 #newyearintentions #2023intentions #slowliving #simpleliving #intentionalliving #goalsetting #sustainableliving
slow, sweet, & simple #2023moodboard
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#pinterestinspo #reelstrending #pinterest #italy #travelgram #moodboard #moodboardaesthetic
@kyliehullstudio just gets it #flowerphotoshoot #photoshootideas #birthdayphotoshoot #reelstrending
*blooming* into 27 ✨
the best thing about having a january birthday is having a few weeks to reset, reflect, and plan before *your* new year starts. welcome, chapter 27.
📸: @kyliehullstudio
been offline soaking up the last of 2022 with my people, but couldn’t end it without a celebration of all the joy, adventure, & love that this year held 🤍 here’s to another year of dancing through life with the people who make every day worth celebrating.
last minute wrapping for the sustainable girlies 💫
#traderjoes #traderjoeshaul #wrappingideas #sustainableliving #reelstrending #stockingstuffers
snowed in, but make it extra cozy courtesy of @thegraychi ❄️
it’s giving *Mrs. Claus* 🤶🏼
nowhere I’d rather be for Christmas. #thegraychi
a few of my favorite low-waste gift wrapping ideas! 🎄 (that also save you money!)
#giftideas #lowwaste #zerowaste #sustainableliving #stockingstuffers #ecowarrior #goingzerowaste
The last of this season’s small business giveaways… stocking stuffers! 🎄
This week’s giveaway includes…
⇨ a Healer Balm, my go-to for dry skin, slugging, chapped hands, sunburn, literally anything from @emogeneco, my favorite skincare company
⇨ a Cocovanil Lip Conditioner (which means it actually hydrates your lips so you need less, plus it smells like chocolate) from @emogeneco
⇨ a sample set from @lesdeuxfragrances, a unisex fragrance company made here in Nashville!
⇨ two vintage Christmas mugs just because 🎅🏼
How to enter:
1. Like this photo
2. Follow me @ana_cahill, @lesdeuxfragrances and @emogeneco
3. Tag a friend! (unlimited entries, just tag each friend in a separate comment!)
4. {optional} Share this post in your stories for 5 extra entries! (Be sure to tag me so I see it!)
As always, you can keep this, or gift it! Giveaway closes at noon CT on 12/19 & winner will be announced on my stories that afternoon! 🎄
{prize can be shipped anywhere in the US!}
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#skincaregiveaway #giftsthatgiveback #nashvillegiveaway #vintagegiveaway #nashvillesmallbusiness #giftidea #vintagegiveaway #candlegiveaway #giveaway #shoplocal #supportsmallbusiness #giftsthatgiveback #nashvillegiveaway #discoverunder10k #holidaygiveaway #christmasgiveaway #smallbusinesssaturday #christmasgiftideas #stockingstuffers #locallymade #smallbusiness #candlecompany #nashville #giftguide #giftideas
Only TWO WEEKS until Christmas & this week’s small business giveaway is here to help you get cozy, or finish up a gift! 🎅🏼
This week’s giveaway includes…
⇨ my favorite Christmas candle from @oaknashville, a vintage home goods shop who creates all of their own candles in-house in Nashville. It even comes in a cutie reusable jar!
⇨ a a Christmas blanket + “Keep Nashville Cozy” tote from @nashvilleblanketproject, a Nashville-based company who donates a blanket to a local in need for every blanket purchased! {and they’re made ethically with reclaimed fibers}
How to enter:
1. Like this photo
2. Follow me @ana_cahill, @oaknashville and @nashvilleblanketproject
3. Tag a friend who can’t wait for the holidays! (unlimited entries, just tag each friend in a separate comment!)
4. {optional} Share this post in your stories for 5 extra entries! (Be sure to tag me so I see it!)
As always, you can keep this, or gift it! Giveaway closes 11:59pm CT on 12/15. Winner will be announced on my stories on Friday 12/16. 🎄
{prize can be shipped anywhere in the US!}
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#candles #holidaycandles #giftsthatgiveback #nashvillegiveaway #nashvilleblanketproject #blanketgiveawY #vintagegiveaway #nashvillesmallbusiness #giftidea #vintagegiveaway #candlegiveaway #giveaway #shoplocal #supportsmallbusiness #giftsthatgiveback #nashvillegiveaway #discoverunder10k #holidaygiveaway #christmasgiveaway #smallbusinesssaturday #christmasgiftideas #stockingstuffers #locallymade #smallbusiness #candlecompany #nashville #giftguide #giftideas
things you can control right now:
- how you treat and speak to others
- the boundaries you set
- how you take care of yourself
- where you give your time and energy
- the content you consume
- how you express your thoughts and feelings
just a gentle holiday season reminder that no matter how badly we want to, we can't control how other people think, speak, or act, but there is a whole lot we can control when it comes to protecting our energy, our spirit, and our health.
focus on controlling what you can, and the rest will work itself out.
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#consciousliving #mindfulliving #mindfulness #sustainable #sustainableliving #sustainablefashion #consciousness #ethicalfashion #spiritjunkie #healthyliving #intentionalliving #mindbodysoul #liveauthentic #ecofriendly #sustainability #purchasewithpurpose #fairtrade #consciousconsumer
nothing brings people together quite like sad songs & the teenage angst that never really went away 🤘🏼🤣
I’ve always been such a planner, but lately I’ve been relearning that life is too dang short to say no to things that bring you joy. not everything needs a purpose - let happiness & making memories with your people be the purpose 🤍
counting my blessings today for a weekend full of my favorite things. #beachfestival
This week’s small business giveaway is… candles & plants! 🌿
We really are giving away all my favorite things this year, and it’s such a joy to be able to share two of my favorite little shops with you…
⇨ a candle poured in a reusable vintage glass from @sagerefillmarket, my favorite shop for all things sustainable living! they have all kinds of local goods, refillable items, vintage clothes, and so much more!
⇨ a $50 gift card to @hoophousenashville to pick out a plant of your choice! Hoop House has been the greatest resource for helping me keep my plants alive 🤣 and they have the best selection, sweetest team, & also save stray kitties 🐈⬛
To enter to win…
1. Like this reel
2. Follow me @ana_cahill, @sagerefillmarket + @hoophousenashville
3. Tag a friend! (unlimited entries, just tag each friend in a separate comment!)
4. {optional} Share this post in your stories for 5 extra entries! (make sure you tag me so I don’t miss it!)
As always, you can keep this, or gift it! Giveaway closes 11:59pm CT on 11/30. Winner will be announced on my stories on Thursday 12/8. Good luck friends! 🪴
{you don’t have to live in nashville to win, but your items must be picked up in nashville by or before June 2023}
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#candles #holidaycandles #vintagegiveaway #nashvillesmallbusiness #giftidea #vintagegiveaway #candlegiveaway #giveaway #shoplocal #supportsmallbusiness #giftsthatgiveback #nashvillegiveaway #discoverunder10k #holidaygiveaway #christmasgiveaway #smallbusinesssaturday #christmasgiftideas #stockingstuffers #locallymade #smallbusiness #candlecompany #nashville #giftguide #giftideas #plantgiveaway
"If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion."
I always look forward to the magic of December, but I do not look forward to all the stress that comes with the holidays and wrapping up the year. This time of year is filled with sweetness, but for most people, it's also filled with some degree of overwhelm, exhaustion, grief, or sadness.
We're all busy, but we're not too busy to practice compassion, patience and kindness, for others, and for ourselves as we try to do all the things before the end of the year. We're all just humans, doing our best to get by, and make the most of this season. 🤍
finally got our film back from Italy & if you need me I’ll be plotting my prompt return.
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#italy #rome #traveltheworld #filmphotos #filmtravel #onfilm
there’s nothing more fun than getting to try new products from clean brands! ✨
this one is the galaxy glow box from @kinderbeautybox - a subscription beauty box dedicated to helping you discover ethical and cruelty-free beauty brands!
I already love @acurebeauty & can’t wait to try the rest of these!
#kinderbeauty #kinderbeautybox #cleanbeauty #cleanskincare #thatgirl #giftideas
99 problems & finding the will to do anything post-holiday weekend is a big one 💃🏻
{ you can snag this whole fit on @mollyandgidget’s cyber monday sale happening now, plus tons of other cute one-of-a-kind options for the holidays! }
#shopsmall #cybermonday #nashvillesmallbusiness
Small Business Giveaways are back! 🕯
If you know me, you what an advocate I am for shopping small and intentionally, especially for the holidays. I started this series a few years ago to help you find gift inspiration for intentional gift giving + to introduce you to some of my favorite small businesses to shop with & support how you’re able this weekend.
This week’s giveaway includes two of my favorite things created by two incredible women…
⇨ two full-sized @goldandivy_ candles, Christmas” and “Tobacco & Vanilla”. They’re made here in Nashville by my sweet friend Alexis and her team & smell absolutely incredible!
⇨ a basket full of vintage goodies from @west.market.decor that includes two mugs, a notebook, floral art, taper candles, a tea towel, a brass dish, a candle holder, and a basket. Hannah has curated the most beautiful collection of vintage goods on her online shop, and offers interior design services for anyone needing help styling their pieces!
To enter…
1. Like this photo
2. Follow me @ana_cahill, @goldandivy_ + @west.market.decor
3. Tag a friend! (unlimited entries, just tag each friend in a separate comment!)
4. {optional} Share this post in your stories for 5 extra entries! (make sure you tag me so I don’t miss it!)
As always, you can keep this, or gift it! Giveaway closes 11:59pm CT on 11/30. Winner will be announced on my stories on Thursday 12/1. Have the best weekend y’all, and don’t forget to shop small! 🖤
{giveaway can be picked up locally in nashville or shipped anywhere in the US}
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#candles #holidaycandles #vintagegiveaway #nashvillesmallbusiness #giftidea #vintagegiveaway #candlegiveaway #giftboxgiveaway #giveaway #shoplocal #supportsmallbusiness #giftsthatgiveback #nashvillegiveaway #discoverunder10k #holidaygiveaway #christmasgiveaway #smallbusinesssaturday #blackfriday #christmasgiftideas #stockingstuffers #locallymade #smallbusiness #candlecompany #nashville #giftguide #giftideas
when you don’t wanna see your to-do list anymore 🙈
this time of year is my favorite, but also the most stressful in pretty much every way. It’s easy to get so caught up in the chaos that we miss the moments we’ve been waiting all year for. here’s your gentle reminder that your responsibilities are important, but not more important than connection and making memories with your people, or taking care of your mental and physical health.
Your UPS driver, your barista, the small business owner, your friends - we’re all out here just trying to do our best.
If you want a life full of joy, support, and understanding, you’ve gotta bring it to the table. Be gentle with others this season, be gentle with yourself too. 🤍
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#mindfulliving #discoverunder10k #discoverunder50k #sustainableliving #sustainablelifestyle #nashville #nashvilleblogger #ethicalinfluencer #theeverygirl #intentionalliving #livingonpurpose #intentionallife #creativelifehappylife #sustainability #lifestylebloggers
so far my November morning routine has been wake up, check the weather, then look at flights ✈️
Before my Italy trip, I was in desperate need of new luggage, and I wanted to find a company that made quality luggage that wasn’t boring. I stumbled across @roamluggage, and fell in love with the idea that I could customize luggage that felt like “me” down to every detail. All of their cases are individually built to order here in the USA, and there are over a million color combinations you can create to build yourself the cutest (& easiest to find) luggage in the airport.
Their cases also come with a lifetime warranty, so you can feel good about investing in a piece made well, and made to last.
Please drop your warm weather recommendations for our next destination below. ☀️
#roamluggage #wandermore #sustainabletravel #travelblog #getaway #customizableluggage #suitcasetravels #tennessee #giftideas
“True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It’s not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, it’s the urge to serve others at whatever cost.”
There’s nothing better than sipping your gloomy Friday morning coffee & knowing it supports those who have provided us the greatest service.
@firedeptcoffee is veteran-owned, and run by active and retired firefighters, and was created with a mission to serve people their morning coffee, and to support injured and ill first responders in need through their charitable foundation.
Today and all days, I’m proud to fill my cup with, and raise it to, #FireDeptCoffee. 🇺🇸 #VeteransDay
#americanmade #firedept #veteranowned #veterownedandoperated #semperfi
there's no better season than moody season.
despite my distaste for being cold 🤣 there's no time of year I look forward to more than when all things become dark & cozy. this year for Christmas gifts, I'm really trying to focus on gifting items or experiences that help people lean into caring for their body & soul, and as always, that support small businesses.
I feel like I recycle a lot of the same ideas (bc they're good ideas!) but it's always fun finding new products that are intentional, and that allows you to treat someone to something they might not treat themselves to.
Last year my friends at @therooseveltscandleco launched another business, @lesdeuxfragrances, and their perfumes are just as wonderful as their candles in every way. They're unisex, and interact with your skin's natural pheromones to create a unique-to-you fragrance experience. They're cruelty, paraben, and phthalate free, made here in Nashville, and they're a 1% for the planet business. 👏🏼
I'm working on some new small business gift guides for this season, but in the meantime, if you need ideas for intentional gifts, or where to find something specific, just shoot me a DM!
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#holidaygiftguide #holidayshopping #shopsmall #nashvillesmallbusiness #1percentfortheplanet #cleanperfume #lesdeux #fragrance #shoplocal #supportsmallbusiness #giftsthatgiveback t#discoverunder10k #holidaygiveaway #christmasgiveaway #smallbusinesssaturday #blackfriday #christmasgiftideas #stockingstuffers #locallymade #smallbusiness #nashville #giftguide #giftideas #mindfulliving
Just an election day reminder that voting doesn't end with your ballot, we do it every day with our 💲 💲 💲.
Every time you buy at a local business, you tell the world your community is worth more than a major-corporation making their next billion.
Every time you buy organic, you tell the world you want more farmers to grow healthy, safe food.
Every time you buy from a business owned by women or people of color, you help build an inclusive economy.
Every time you stop shopping at a specific place, you challenge them to question why, and where they need to change.
Every time you don’t buy something, you tell the world you don’t need more stuff to have a good life.
“Unlike our single vote, our ongoing financial decisions provide us a particular kind of power and autonomy; an ability to freely wield our dollars in ways that can reshape policy beyond the boundaries of the government establishment.” - @forbes
Our daily spending habits represent endorsements of a company’s products, services, values, etc., and every dollar we spend empowers that company to continue its practices, the things it supports, treatment of employees, business ethics, etc. At the same time, avoiding spending money with particular companies can play a role in shifting behaviors.
Research the brands you’re supporting, and be intentional with the way you’re spending your money. Once you know the values and ethics of your favorite companies, it’s hard to ignore them.
You have so much more power than you think you do, don't forget to use it. 👊🏼
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#vote #2022electionday #mindfulliving #discoverunder10k #shopsmall #bettertomorrow #sustainableliving #sustainablelifestyle #ethicalinfluencer #intentionalliving #livingonpurpose #intentionallife #creativelifehappylife #sustainability
it’s giving “witchy blair waldorf” & honestly I think that’s the energy I need to take into this next season. 🐍
happy friday, friends! xoxo
{earrings thrifted from @littleyellowdoor, zara dress via @buffaloexchange}
📸: @churchill.morris
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#sustainablefashion #ethicalfashion #whatiwore #thriftedfashion #ecoclothing #thrifted #curatedcloset #closetmakeover #wardrobe #capsulewardrobe #highqualityproducts #ethicallymade #ecofashion #dailystyle #sustainableclothing #thriftingfinds #thriftflip #thriftedfinds #thrifthaul #thriftfind #thriftshopping #secondhandstyle #secondhandfirst #thriftyfashion #ethicalfashionbrand #ethicalfashionblogger #fastfashion #ethicalclothing #ethicalstyle #ethicalootd
snapshots from the fastest month of my life 📸 mentally I’m in august, but somehow it’s already november?? (last one is an accurate representation of my state of mind 🤣)
please enjoy this collection of chaos & let it be a reminder to count your blessings even in the busyness 👻
One of my favorite parts of a new season is new clothes - and by new I mean options I forgot I stashed away from last fall 💃🏻
The older I get, the more appreciate investing in quality clothes, and taking care of them so they last for years. Setting up my closet intentionally, so I feel like I’m shopping it every morning, makes such a difference in how I feel about my clothes, and helps make picking out outfits 100x easier.
For me, having less stuff that I love and take care of has not only been beneficial for my wallet and the planet, but also for my mental health and not feeling like I need more all the time (and then having to find space to store it all 🙃).
Have any of your own tips for cleaning out your closet or switching it up for a new season? I always love to hear new ideas!
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#capsulewardrobe #sustainablefashion #ethicalfashion #whatiwore #thriftedfashion #ecoclothing #thrifted #curatedcloset #closetmakeover #wardrobe #ethicallymade #ecofashion #dailystyle #sustainableclothing #thriftingfinds #thriftedfashion #thrifthaul #thriftshopping #secondhandstyle #thriftyfashion #ethicalfashionblogger #fastfashion #ethicalstyle #ethicalootd #consciousstyle #consciousfashion #saynotofastfashion #whomadeyourclothes #ecofriendlyclothing #zerowastefashion #pinterestinspired
golden hour in october hits different. 🍁
{hair via @alexiskahn, natural glow via @emogeneco}
"I notice that autumn is more a season of the soul than of nature." - Friedrich Nietzsche
Today’s work day consisted of farm animals, country drives, sitting around a fire with the best girls, a bath, and mac + cheese, & I think I’ve discovered the cure for just about anything. 🍂
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#fall #tennesseefall #autumnleaves #nashvilletn #mindfulliving #slowliving
Why is it so easy for us to share our physical struggles, but not our mental ones?
I feel like everyone I talked to this week (myself included) has been feeling burnt out, lost, stressed, or all of the above.
I’ve heard more than one person make a joke about “maybe I’ll just say I have Covid so I can take a break”.
My little head has been on overdrive, but it wasn’t until I got physically sick that I rescheduled meetings, or acknowledged that I needed rest.
Why do we feel like we need a physical excuse to take a break? To rest, to step back, to slow down?
You can love what you do, and still get burnt out.
You can be an extrovert, and still need time alone.
You can have everything you thought you wanted, and change your mind.
You can have a desire to do all the things, and in reality not have the energy to.
You can be a happy person, and still not be able to control the chemicals in your brain.
We’re all fighting our own battles, and it doesn’t make you lazy, or weak, or selfish, or whatever else, to admit that you need rest or time alone, to say “no”, to change your plans - it makes you human.
I hope your weekend plans include slowing down & focusing on the things that make you feel good. 🤍 #worldmentalhealthweek
happy sunday - do something good for your soul 🤍
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#fallaesthetic #fallvibes #selfcare #fall #picnic #spotifyplaylist #mindfulliving
The longest relationship you’ll ever have is the one you have with yourself.
The older I get, the more I’m reminded that that the quality of your life is contingent on the quality of your relationships, the one you have with yourself included.
Give yourself grace.
Make your happiness a priority.
Hold yourself accountable.
Buy yourself the flowers.
Take yourself on the trip.
Get to really know yourself outside of other people’s influence.
Do the work to show up as the best version of yourself, for others, and also for yourself.🤍
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#florence #mindfulliving #travelmore #sustainableliving #consciousliving #mindfulness #sustainable #sustainablefashion #consciousness #ethicalfashion #spiritjunkie #healthyliving #intentionalliving #mindbodysoul #liveauthentic #ecofriendly #pildoranow #sustainability #purchasewithpurpose #fairtrade #consciousconsumer
you can see a million pictures, but nothing prepares you for experiencing a new country in real life. thankful for a magical september in Italy. 💫
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#visititaly #travelmore #travelblog #italy #amalficoast #rome
Nothing like a trip to Europe to remind you that Americans are doing too much.
Too much waste.
Too many ingredients.
Too much work.
Too much screen time.
Moments from a day spent without service, riding horses through the Tuscan hills, exploring ancient cities, and enjoying wine and pasta with people I love.
Life’s sweeter when it’s simple.
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#florence #tuscany #thriftedfashion #sustainablefashion #sustainabletravel #travelblog #visitflorence #discoverunder10k
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anastasia cahill
sustainable lifestyle + wellness blog
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