Life and Style

Canopy Atlanta – Let’s Go

January 17, 2019 by robincharmagne 5 Comments

Hi pretties,

I was super excited to attend my first hotel opening for Canopy Atlanta. Located in Midtown Atlanta, this hotel is part of the Hilton family of brands. I am always looking for staycation spots in The A and this one is definitely being added to the list.

Canopy is a lifestyle hotel situated in the heart of Midtown, with close proximity to many popular attractions such as the High Museum of Art and the Art District. It has 176 rooms and 4 canopy suites that include complementary Wi-Fi.

Xhibit

For the event, we were able to try bites from the Xhibit Kitchen and Bar. Everything was not only visually appealing, but so delicious! The restaurant has a Cafe, Bar, and complimentary tastings each evening!

Rooms

After sampling some the goodies from Xhibit, we were treated to a tour of the hotel including the guest rooms. The decor is contemporary in style with a mostly neutral color palette. I really liked the open closet space as soon as you walk in, just hang your stuff and go! And there is filtered water on every floor.

Art

Art plays a big part in the decor of the hotel. Many of the installations were designed by local artists. I especially liked the wall that acknowledged patrons of the arts that supported the hotel, check it out you may see a familiar face!

Canopy also boasts meeting spaces, an outdoor terrace with fire pit, and bicycle rental.

If I had to describe Canopy in three word, it would be artsy, cool, and fun. The decor really adds to the ambiance, it doesn’t feel stuffy at all. With their brand promise to deliver a “positive stay”, this hotel is a welcome addition to Midtown Atlanta. I see a staycation in my future.

When you vacation, do you notice the art work at the hotel?

robincharmagne

More Or Less – Ikat Pillows

January 8, 2019 by robincharmagne 2 Comments

Hi Pretties,

More or Less was a favorite feature here on the blog and I am excited to bring it back!! Now, we all want our homes to be havens that make us happy every time we step through the front door. And, the best part is a fat bank account is not necessary to have the home space you love. Today I’m sharing two pillows that are similar in style but one is at a lower price point.

Style Points

Square shape
Cotton fabric; dry clean only
black/white color scheme
Similar print pattern
1 inch size variance
$22 price variance

For an easy refresh, just add pillows. These are two solid options if you were completing another color scheme with black/white. Check out how these pillows accent different color schemes.

Photo by Caitlin Wilson Design

Photo by – Anna Dhillon Design

The pillows add pattern and color to these rooms, somewhat acting as a neutral. Also, depending on your budget you could choose the $$$more or $less price point and still have a perfect room accent.

Have you updated a room with pillows and did you go more or less in price?

Memory Keeping

November 2, 2018 by robincharmagne 29 Comments

#ad-I was provided this product by Messages in Metal; all the opinions are my own.

Hi pretties,
It has been some time since I blogged and I am so happy to be back today with a very personal post. Sadly, over the last 2 years, my family dynamic has changed with the passing of my Sister and my Dad. I would say 2018 has proven to be quite challenging, but even those words do not seem adequate with the passing of my Twin Brother earlier this year. Of course I miss them all terribly, but the passing of my sister and brother hit me especially hard. The three of us could not have been more different – John the tech guy, me the goody two shoes, and Nickey the rebel! We shared a love of anything with wheels and science fiction and defended each other fiercely against anyone, including our parents. I have so many funny memories of the three of us that will live on in my heart, but when Messages in Metal reached out to me, I discovered a very special way to keep them close.

Messages in Metal

This is a Montana based company that makes personalized jewelry to celebrate all the special moments and special people in our lives. These metal pieces are crafted in .925 silver and come with a chain. Some pieces are offered in gold plating and with beautiful Swarovski gemstones. I chose the infinity design with the names of my brother and sister.

Simple packaging in classic black and white.

Black velvet box that securely holds your pendant

messages_in_metal_personalize-_robincharmagne

Absolutely perfect – Infinity Necklace in .925 Sterling Silver

Happy, together again!

I am so happy with my pendant, it shipped quickly after ordering. It is very well made, feels light but is substantial. The Messages in Metal website has many options in the size, shape, and type of pendant. This is a perfect way for me to honor my siblings and keep them close to my heart. Please visit the website to see all of their unique pieces.

Do you wear personalized jewelry?

5 Things To Do For Your Birthday – Monday Musing

July 2, 2018 by robincharmagne 30 Comments

Hi pretties,
It is a new month, but more importantly, it is my birthday month….LOLOL But seriously, I was thinking of what to do for my bday besides the tried and true dinner with friends. Of course I love good conversation over a good meal with friends, but I was thinking what else is there to do on this special day? So, here are 5 experiences to try solo or with friends. And, these ideas generally are not all that expensive but still a whole lotta fun!

I am undecided on my birthday plans, but anticipating doing something a little different and fun for sure. My friends are usually game for anything so whatever experience I choose should be a blast. I will keep ya’ll posted on the upcoming high jinks. What did you do for your last birthday?

Who’s That Girl – Monday Musing

June 4, 2018 by robincharmagne 19 Comments

Hey pretties,
Who is that girl? Since it is a new month and my blogging has been all over the place, I thought I would sorta re-introduce myself and share a few tidbits about robincharmagne that are very random and oddball! Here goes…

Inquiring Minds

1. I love Bentleys, my dream automobile. Whenever I see a Bentley tooling around The A, I try to snap a pic and then wonder if the owner is a famous rapper, a politician, or a blogger who made her dreams come true.
2. I drink mojitos when socializing, but I am not a drinker, does that make sense? Brown liquor is disgusting.
3. I would rock a pair of jeans every single day, matter of fact, I do wear jeans every single day. My uniform – jeans and a cute top.
4. All cookies are welcome in my house, actually if you bring cookies, I will love you forever. Especially oatmeal or graham crackers or vanilla wafers, or…okay any kind is fine.
5. Science fiction is my favorite movie genre, except Star Wars, never liked it. Live long and prosper is more my speed – did you catch that?
6. I work virtually and Podcasts help my day go so much faster without being a distraction. My favorite podcast is The Read – sometimes ratchet, including adult language, but always woke!
7. Room service is my jam, especially for breakfast. Nothing like waking up to a delicious, beautifully plated meal that is delivered and setup so fancy. It is a vacation splurge I include in the budget.
8. I know God created bugs, but really, they are not my friends. The End….of all bugs.
9. A house on the beach is the life, nothing like living near water. One day…

A peek inside the mind of robincharmagne. Thank you for stopping by and tell me something random or odd about you?

Photo:GDemeritte Photography

3 Lessons I Learned From The Royal Wedding

May 21, 2018 by robincharmagne 4 Comments

Hello pretties,
Still basking in the beauty and joy of the Royal Wedding. Actually I had not planned to watch it, but I woke up just when it all began and I must say I am glad I did. The entire ceremony was beautiful from start to finish – my highlights, Bishop Curry’s message and the Kingdom Choir. I was so moved by both. Bishop Curry’s message of love was much needed and timely given the current climate. And the Kingdom Choir, just absolute pure beauty, their voices like angels. I just love them and will definitely try to see them in person somewhere in the UK or US!! Oh one more thing, Meghan’s Mom, regal and proud, she has a fan in me. I turned off the television thinking I believe in love again…here is what I learned…

Lessons Learned

1. Get out of that dreaded comfort zone, you know the one where you text, talk, and meet. Don’t be afraid to try something new like a blind date! Prince Harry and Meghan met on a blind date. I have never been on a blind date but definitely open to trying especially if my close friends suggested someone cool! After all, they know me pretty well!
2. Be open, I realize my dream partner might not fit that perfect picture in my mind. I don’t think Meghan actually dreamed of marrying a Prince! I am willing to drop my prototype for the real thing.
3. Setup boundaries when needed. The press hounded Meghan and Prince Harry put a stop to it. I might not have paparrazi chasing me in Target, but if the people around me are being negative or not supportive, I will shut them down!

I am rooting for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex! Did you watch the Royal Wedding and what was your favorite or most memorable part?

Beyonce And Competiton

May 2, 2018 by robincharmagne 12 Comments

Hey pretties,
I really have been on a Beyonce kick lately and drum roll, she is my Woman Crush Wednesday. Still thinking about the Coachella, er Beychella performance. Honestly, I didn’t know and still don’t know too much about Coachella. Is it like Woodstock? LOL Did I just age myself? So if it is, I imagined she would be on stage in daisy dukes, a tee, and a flower wreath. She would proceed to sing a few songs and that would be it, nothing too big. Welllll babbeee, was I wrong. I will not rehash the amazing performances, you can catch the first one on Youtube.

This girl recreated the HBCU experience, complete with drum majorette, 200 member marching band, with a drum-line and horns, dancers, a majorette who twirled not one but two batons, a group of pledges, stepshow, Les Twins, a dance party with Solange, duet with hubby, The Negro National Anthem, swag and surf ANNDDDD a Destiny’s Child mini-reunion. Really? Really Beyonce? You had to to all that? You so extra!!! Well yes she did. She outdid herself. In her own words…

For me, her performances were a lesson for us all, creatives, entrepreneurs, working moms, college students etc. You compete with no one but yourself and even at the height of your success, don’t get comfy, push yourself to do more. Be better than the last time. Let’s face it, she did not have to do THE MOST, after all, she’s sold 100 million records and has 22 Grammys. And by a lot of standards is the top female performer today. She could sit back and coast or do THE LEAST. But no, she challenged herself to bring a unique experience/performance to Coachella. My takeaway, it does not matter where you are on your journey to success, do THE MOST all the time. Out do YOU!

What lessons if any did you take from Beychella?

Image: Quotidiano.net via Google
*I do not own the rights to this photo

NStyle Box Review

March 27, 2018 by robincharmagne 10 Comments

Hello pretties,
It is subscription box review time again. I am back with a second Nstyle Box from the fabulous blogger At Home With Nikki. This is the box for February and I guess you could say it is a “favorite color” theme, take a peek…

…

5 Thoughts On Black Panther – Monday Musing

February 26, 2018 by robincharmagne 6 Comments

Hi pretties,
As they say, unless you have been living under a rock, you have either heard about or have seen, several times, the movie Black Panther. Crazy good, making $700 million at the box office and still counting. Yes, I have seen it and plan to see it a few more times and definitely in 3D. As a confessed nerd, I was ecstatic that so many folks who don’t really like action or superhero flicks really embraced this genre of movie. It was spectacular from start to finish but in between the car chases and epic fight scenes, I made a few observations on Black Panther, take a peek…
*Note: possible spoilers ahead!

My Thoughts

1. Family is everything, good, bad, or down right ugly. But, family secrets are the worst and create those “generational” curses that destroy familial bonds. We need to talk more and electric slide less at the family reunion – let’s address our stuff to make our families stronger.
2. You may not have vibranium, but if you know where they selling it, let me know…LOL! Everyone has resources, a set of unique gifts and talents – sewing, cooking, writing, speaking, etc. Do not be afraid to share all that magic with others, you will benefit just as much as the receiver.
3. No matter what the world says, there is no one definition of beauty. The Dora Milaje warriors were simply stunning. Learn to embrace and appreciate your own beauty and define your own beauty standards.
4. My Mama says this so often, “You don’t know who will give you your last drink of water.” Don’t burn your bridges, you don’t know where your help will come from. Perhaps from an old CIA pal or the so fine dude from another tribe, M’Baku, he could save me any day of the week – I digress. Don’t hold grudges, forgive and move on.
5. We need wayyy more, a lot more women in technology. That fabulous technology in Wakanda was created by Shuri, a woman. Our young girls need to see these images. Heck all women need to see more images of women in technology fields. If you are interested in a tech career or learning more, checkout Women Who Code!

I LOVED THIS MOVIE. #thatisall

Have you seen Black Panther? Yes? Let me know what your thoughts about this movie and T’Challa’s fine self, oops digressing again. If you have not, I’ll go with you!!!

First Class Dreams – Seattle – Let’s Go

October 6, 2017 by robincharmagne 10 Comments

airline-loyalty-robincharmagne
Hello pretties,
I hope y’all are feeling great and ready to talk travel. So, recently, I was graciously gifted a birthday trip to Seattle, in first class seating (yes my friends rock). Flying first class was on my bucket travel list, but the way my travel deals are setup, I have not been able to live this dream. Today I am sharing bits of the fab plane ride and how to earn miles to increase your chances of getting first class seats on your next flight.

First Class Anyone?

Travel time Atlanta to Seattle is right under 6 hours so the Delta One seating was the most comfortable option. The seats are 21 inches wide, and recline fully to lay flat like a bed. It also has its own power plug and USB port for charging and a personal seat-side reading light.

What’s wrong with my hair?

What is she looking at LOL?

Like being in a restaurant

This was quite an experience and everything I dreamed it would be. It started with priority boarding, yes on the plane first. Upon sitting down, we had water and the flight attendant explained how everything worked. You get your own overhead bin, that was cool. Then she asked if I wanted champagne, um yeah. The amenities were superior quality, a blanket so soft from Westin hotels and those fancy headphones. On to the meals! So before dining, the flight attendants offered everyone a warm towel and laid out our napkin on the tray table. The food was better than main cabin but I wasn’t bowled over. It was served on real dishes and with real silverware that part was special! All throughout the flight we were offered a variety of yummy snacks and whatever we wanted to drink. The Delta One seat did not disappoint, really comfy and reclined 180 degrees all the way to a flat bed. I could have slept the entire flight, just like being at home. The service was amazing – attentive and elegant. I would fly first class every flight if I could, who doesn’t like being pampered?

Tips to Earn Miles

1. Decide what status fits your travel lifestyle based on the airline. For example, Delta has silver, gold, platinum, and diamond. Each one has different perks. I am working towards silver status.
2. Be Loyal! Pick your primary and secondary airlines and enroll in their rewards program including any credit cards aligned with that airline. Remember I said how my travel deals are setup? Well, to earn this status and get all the perks of said status, .i.e. free checked bags for you and your travel buddies, priority check-in and boarding and more, I will be sticking with one or maybe two airlines versus flying with everybody and they mama who has a deal.
3. Use airline rewards credit card for any purchase that will award miles for said purchases. You are going to shop anyway, you might as well earn some miles in the process. But try to pay off at the end of each month to avoid amassing debt.

There are many other ways to earn miles, just schooling y’all like my friend schooled me, sharing is caring… LOL. Once you begin earning your miles in your particular status, then you get complimentary upgrades to first class and with all your miles, you can gift miles! Isn’t that awesome. I am so thankful for having sweet and generous friends, can’t wait to return the gift and make someone else’s travel dreams come true!

See ya’ in first class real soon!

Have you flown first class and how was your experience?

Linking with these lovely bloggers.

P.S. Seattle was great, more to come on that too!

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