Early Mornings in SoHo
📍 SoHo, New York City

Tank Top || Skirt || Flats || Similar Handbag || Earrings

Without a doubt, my favorite time of the day in New York is the early morning hours. Especially during the summertime, a beautiful light fills the street. The city of 8 million is still, and you have it all to yourself. While this moment of quiet and calm is short-lived, it’s an incredible experience that I love to take advantage of on every trip. During this time of the year, the sunrise is around 5:30 am. That’s an early wake-up call for even the peppiest of morning people. Here are my top recommendations to take advantage of early summer mornings in SoHo and anywhere else in Manhattan.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

In a city that never sleeps, it’s very tempting (and all too easy) to stay up into the wee hours of the morning. I’ve been guilty of doing that on several occasions myself and have suffered the consequences the next day. Especially if you want to take advantage of an early morning exploration, getting a good night’s rest is critical. Start with happy hour, enjoy a wonderful meal on the town, and wind down the evening by relaxing at the hotel. Cozy in a hotel robe by 10 pm with to-go dessert? That sounds like an ideal night to me!

Go Easy on the Adult Beverages

When enjoying the evening with friends, this is sometimes my downfall that keeps me from getting up with the sunrise. I’m not saying you have to abstain entirely, but definitely save it to a minimum. I’ve found that a cocktail at happy hour and a glass of wine with dinner, mixed with several glasses of water throughout, is a good measure. Instead of having a few rounds of post-dinner cocktails, hold off until mid-morning. Countless brunch spots around the city have incredible mimosa specials. It’s all a better reason to start your weekend mornings earlier. 

Use the Black Out Curtains

Oh, how I’ve come to love this on our stays in New York! Blackout curtains are so helpful in blocking out both light and sound. I’m a pretty light sleeper, and while the sounds of the city often lull me to sleep, one expected noise jolts me awake. I also never sleep well the first night in a hotel room, but getting it as dark and quiet as possible is helpful. I will recommend leaving a little sliver open, so you can see the morning light as it begins to trickle in. Without, you may sleep in well beyond the early morning hours. 

Visit a Local Coffee Shop

Nothing like a full cup of caffeine motivates you first thing in the morning. Whenever I wake up early to explore a new neighborhood, I always scout the local coffee shop scene. The little things help me get some extra pep in my step. Take your drink to-go with your favorite pastry, and wander the area. Relax at a nearby park if you find one and watch the world pass. The point is that the peace and quiet are even better when you have a great coffee in hand, making the early alarm much more bearable. My personal favorite in SoHo would have to be Felix Coffee Roasting on Greene Street.

After a quiet morning to yourself, you’re now ready to take on the day in New York. Join your friends for brunch, book a ticket at your favorite museum, and explore all the city has to offer. Whether you’re just visiting for the weekend or have the pleasure of calling yourself a resident, early mornings are the perfect opportunity to see bustling Manhattan at its very best!

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Summer Packing Guide for NYC
📍5th Avenue, Upper East Side

Sweater || Jeans || Flats || Handbag || Sunglasses || Earrings

I will always love summer in the city. The warm weather creates such a unique buzz that is nothing short of infectious. On the most recent trip to Manhattan, I packed up my chicest outfits and was ready to take on the city I love so much. From a lazy afternoon in Central Park to exploring my old neighborhood on the Upper East Side, I relished every minute of it. If you’re planning your own summer trip to New York City, here are some of my favorite outfit ideas to pack.

Baseball Hat || Exercise Dress || Sneakers || Handbag || Sunscreen || Sunglasses
Turkish Towel || Portable Speakers

Picnic in Central Park

Even on the warmest New York day, Central Park is always full of locals and tourists alike. The Great Lawn between East 79th and East 84th Streets is a personal favorite spot for a picnic in the park. Especially on a sunny day, you want to make sure you’re dressed appropriately to help beat the heat. It always starts with a layer of sunscreen, like the SPF 40 from Supergoop. Afterward, protect your face even further with a baseball cap, the Yankees are always appropriate in Manhattan, and your favorite pair of sunglasses. Whenever I travel, I always like to pack a Turkish towel. It makes for the perfect compact blanket on a cold airplane or, in this case, to use as a picnic blanket. Stop by Butterfield Market on 85th Ave and Madison for a to-go sandwich and their bottled watermelon juice. When you get to the park, pop out this portable speaker and play your favorite NYC-inspired playlist.

Headband || Sundress || Handbag || Ballet Flats
($50 off with SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE)

Museum Hopping in the UES

No trip to New York is complete without visiting at least one of the many museums. The Upper East Side is home to several, most along 5th Avenue’s famed Museum Mile. Always a lover of Gossip Girl, I can’t help but get a bit dressy ala my favorite characters from the fictitious Constance Billard School. This white sundress from J. Crew and my favorite Mansur Gavriel handbag are on their own reminiscent of Blair Waldorf’s style. This knotted headband, also from J. Crew, really seals the deal. Depending on what museum you plan on visiting, you may be surprised to put in a lot of miles. That’s why I always recommend wearing comfy shoes while making your way through Manhattan. I swear by my Natalie Flats from Sarah Flint, and this black leather helps give this outfit a prim and proper look. A coffee cup from Sant Ambroeus is optional but highly recommended. 

Sunglasses || Tee || Jeans || Flats || Handbag

Shopping on Madison Ave

I want to think that Jackie Kennedy would have approved of this outfit! The longtime Upper East Side resident had many iconic style moments, but this simple style may have been her favorite. As you shop along Madison Avenue’s many boutiques and shops, feel free to channel one of my favorite First Ladies. This black-tee from J. Crew has a monogram option so you can add your own personal flair. Pair with a crisp pair of white jeans and my go-to espadrille flats to be ready for a day of shopping. To keep yourself hands-free, I prefer to have a crossbody bag, like this tan pick from Mansur Gavriel. Vintage-inspired tortoiseshell sunglasses, also from J. Crew, will round off the day and make you look like an incognito socialite.

Earrings || Dress || Lipstick || Silk Scarf || Handbag || Heels
($50 off with SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE)

Dinner and Broadway

There’s so special about a dinner and Broadway show date night! While most theaters have a relaxed dress code, be sure to double-check, I vote to dress up for the occasion. Pick a restaurant close to the theater district, such as Bar Centrale or La Masseria, so you don’t have to rush after dinner. When I first spotted this stunning black midi dress from J. Crew, I knew it would be perfect for a romantic night with David. To navigate the sometimes uneven streets of Manhattan, I recommend wearing a block heel for extra stability. This particular vintage-inspired pair from Sarah Flint has arch support and is incredibly comfortable. A Mansur Gavriel handbag is roomy enough to fit your Playbill, lipstick, silk scarf, and even else you may need for a memorable night on the town.

And, just like that, you have four easy and effortless outfits to pack during your summer stay in New York. The beauty of these pieces is that they can be mixed and matched with whatever favorites you already have in your closet. You too can dress like your favorite Upper East Side or downtown it-girl without breaking the bank. Happy packing!

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

My 31st Birthday Weekend in NYC
📍 Manhattan, NYC

Satin Dress (Similar) || Flats || Similar Handbag || Sunglasses || Earrings

During the last weekend of June, I celebrated my 31st birthday, June 25th to be exact! While it’s not a milestone year, there was only one thing I wanted. David and I don’t typically exchange physical gifts. Instead, we prefer to treat each other with weekend trips and incredible meals. So, we packed our bags for the concrete jungle for three days in NYC. Although it was a quick trip, I found it relaxing, which is not a word typically used to describe anything in Manhattan. Here’s a recap of my 31st birthday weekend in NYC.

Tank Top || Jeans || Flats || Similar Handbag || Earrings

Friday

Check Into the Ace Hotel

After a bright and early flight to JFK, we took the train to Penn Station and had a quick walk to our home for the weekend. The Ace in NoMad has become our go-to hotel while staying in the city. I think it’s well priced, and the staff is always incredibly nice. Better you still, you can’t ask for a better location. It’s a short walk from several subway lines and has many great dining options just a few blocks away. When they discovered it was my birthday, they delivered this sweet card and a round of cocktails at the lobby bar. It was such a lovely gesture and yet another reason why I’ll always choose Ace when I have the chance.

Morning Coffee at Maman

Since I was still a little sleepy from our 4 am wake-up call, we headed out in search of coffee. Near our hotel is Devocion, one of my favorite coffee shops in the city. On this trip, I wanted to visit somewhere I hadn’t been to recently and was delighted to find a Maman nearby. With several locations in NYC, it has become a trendy staple with its blue and white decor and matching to-go cups. With oat-milk cappuccino in hand, we found a shady spot to sit in Madison Square Park and relished in the city’s buzz. I also had the treat of having lunch with my co-workers at a lunch spot called Little Beet Table. No pictures were taken, but the food and company were incredible!

Dinner at Saint Theo’s

After some downtime at our hotel and a fun happy hour at the Broken Shaker, we made our way to the West Village for dinner. I absolutely love this neighborhood but didn’t visit it enough when we lived in New York. Beautiful brownstones are followed by an endless selection of some of the city’s trendiest restaurants and bars. Our dining spot for the evening was Saint Theo’s, one of the newest Italian restaurants on the scene and one that has obtained instant popularity. Everything aspect of this meal, from cocktails to entrees to dessert, was incredible. The menu does have a note of ‘no pictures,’ and because I’m a rule follower, this is the only picture I was brave enough to take. If you can snag a reservation, do not let it pass you by. 

Cocktails at Dante West Village

With so much daylight left after dinner, David and I continued our evening by walking through the West Village. The neighborhood was buzzing with other couples on date night, friends celebrating the weekend, and the city was getting ready for Pride festivities. We were lucky to grab a seat at the Dante on Hudson Street and had a few post-dinner cocktails. I ordered the Brooks Nader Paloma. During the month of June, $5 from the sale of each drink was donated to Everytown, a nonprofit organization that I deeply believe in and stand behind.

Saturday

Explore SoHo

SoHo, I love you! This neighborhood is always a delight to visit! On Saturday morning, officially a 31-year-old, we made our way downtown to wander through the cast-iron buildings and for some window shopping. Because of the endless array of boutiques, the streets can get very crowded quickly. In the early morning, I felt like I had SoHo all to myself. We stopped at Felix Roasting Co., another favorite coffee shop, to hold us over until breakfast. The space is absolutely beautiful and where I would love to spend the morning with a good book.

Breakfast at Sadelle’s

Having a bagel should be a top priority when you visit New York! While there are many opinions on who’s the best, I’m personally loyal to Tal Bagels on the Upper East Side, and Leo’s in FiDi, but I wanted to try Sadelle’s. First opening in 2016, it has become an instant favorite with its reimagined New York City classics. The most popular thing to order is their House Salmon. It’s presented with three tiers of plates, with a freshly baked bagel and other accoutrement. We had breakfast reservations right when they opened, and the place filled up within minutes. It’s easy to say this is a must-visit while in SoHo. 

Take in Pride Weekend Festivities

Pride Weekend falls on my birthday nearly every year, and it’s such an honor! This may be New York at one of its finest moments. Even though the parade wasn’t until Sunday, everywhere you looked, there was a celebration of love and freedom. It truly is such a joyous and wonderful occasion in NYC. For obvious reasons, this Pride seemed to have a sense of urgency attached to it. The Roe v. Wade decision that had come out just days earlier was a devastating reminder of how swiftly rights and liberties can be taken away. Although the weekend began in a more somber tone, being in New York during this time was an almost cathartic experience. Although there are many stereotypes to the contrary, New Yorkers care!

Dinner with Friends in Seaport

The icing on the cake for the weekend was dinner with our dear friends, Sydney and Andrew. Even though we live 1,000 miles apart, we get together as often as possible. The night’s events include seeing their beautiful Seaport apartment, dinner at Daniel Boulud’s newest restaurant, Le Gratin, and walking around the lively Pier 17. I feel so lucky to have such incredible friends to reconnect with on each trip to New York. It helps me feel like I’ve found my place in a city of 8 million and will always be a reason for me to come back.

Sunday

Coffee at Ralph’s in the Upper East Side

Our final day in the city started at sunrise with a few pictures at the New York Public Library, which I’ll share very soon, and a trip to the Upper East Side. As soon as we walk up the stairs at 86th Street and Lexington, I feel like I’m home. This was our neighborhood for two years and is a required stop on every trip to New York. After saying hello to the doormen at our old building, we wandered down Madison Avenue to one of my favorite UES spots. After being off the menu for a few years, the scone at Ralph’s Coffee is back and ready for action. It’s served with a healthy portion of French butter and maybe my favorite pastry. 

People Watching in Central Park

With provisions in hand, we walked the block over to Central Park and just… relaxed. Morning coffee and a pastry were our standing Sunday morning tradition, and it felt so right to do it again. Our favorite spot is at the Conservatory Water, usually known for its model boat sailing. It serves as an official dog park in the morning, with four-legged friends allowed to be off-leash until 9:00 am. David and I sat, watching the poshest puppies in Manhattan run around and play, with their equally chic owners following right behind. We sat here and watched the world pass for a long spell, and then it was off to continue on a blissful final day. 

Shopping Along Madison Avenue

The Upper East Side is my favorite place to “shop,” even if I don’t spend a dime. Some of the most luxurious designers can be found along nearly twenty blocks of Madison Avenue. Start around the mid-70s and make your way down. When I was a card-carrying New Yorker, I was a pretty regular fixture at J. Crew Collection. I popped in to see the latest and greatest from my favorite brand. Let me tell you, the Coastal Grandmother aesthetic is alive and well in Manhattan. Other favorite stores to peruse are The Real Real, Ralph Lauren, and La Ligne, although that’s a very abbreviated list.

Liquid Lunch at Bemelmans

This particular trip to the Carlyle was somewhat unexpected but very much appreciated. With its intimate setting and incredible cocktail list, Bemelmans Bar is one of my favorite places in the entire city. After walking in the sun, we wandered in for a post-shopping refreshment. Sitting at the bar, we chatted with the bartender (Jon, from Barbados). As we talked with the other patrons who made their way in, what was supposed to be one round turned into several. The afternoon passed in an instant, and it was time to return to the hotel to pick up our luggage.

Snack To-Go at The Mark Hotel

There was time for just one more stop before heading home. Just a block away from the Carlyle is the Mark Hotel. The Mark is equally as luxurious and exclusive, but with one tiny surprise. During the summer months, be sure to stop by the Jean-George hotdog stand. The hotdog stand is a fixture on countless blocks in NYC, but the Mark has given it a twist. For $6, a steal when compared to their hotel rooms’ prices, order an organic chicken or grass-fed beef hotdog. The signature is their Kimchi relish, but they also have all the standard fixings. This was the first thing I had eaten since my scone at Ralph’s, so clearly, I was a little bit hungry. 

Off to JFK Airport

And just like that, our first trip to NYC in 2022 was over. We took the subway back to our hotel, which was winding down from a very successful Pride Parade, and hopped on the train to JFK. With so many canceled flights that day, the airport was a little bit of a nightmare, but we were fortunate to get on our plane with minimal delays. All in all, a very wonderful trip to New York. I’m already counting down the days until our next jaunt in August. After that, who knows?

Over 1,700 words later, and I’m still gushing from my 31st birthday weekend. A trip to New York is always a good idea, but if you ever have a chance to celebrate a special occasion, I highly recommend it! The city just has this larger than life quality, and it helps bolden any event from birthdays, anniversaries, and beyond.

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.