Horsing Around in Aruba

Aruba is known for its amazing beaches, so what better way to explore, than by horse? My parents surprised myself and the girls by taking us riding at Gold Mine Ranch.

We wandered up the windy roads of Aruba and made our way over to the ocean. Climbing up to cactus lined cliffs, we headed down to the sandy shores.

What a great memory, getting to ‘giddy up with my girls? It was hard to say goodbye as we rode by the waves.

The greatest tour guide was my girl, Elegancia. She was the sweetest horse that showed me around this amazing island. We certainly had a wild ride, but I think we were both ready head back to the ranch. Until next time, Gold Mine!

Location: Gold Mine Ranch, Aruba  .  Photographer: Curt Weaver

Featured: Alexandria, Jana, Savannah, and Jan Angel

 

Angel Family Christmas

My favorite time of year is the one most full of cheer, and I couldn’t wait for Christmas to be here. I made the best of being in the Outer Banks one last time before I finally headed home for the holidays.

There’s nothing like Christmas to bring the family together. I was more than ready to hit the road home to Rock Hill, SC. We started Christmas Eve early with the Candlelight Service at church, and ended it with our annual drive through our neighborhood to look at lights.

Waking up the morning of is always more memorable than the last. The kitchen was covered in Christmas brunch and the living room was lined with gifts. We were more than ready to pour some mimosas and get into the presents.

I couldn’t wait to join my family around the tree and trade gifts. I must say santa sure got it right with these gifts. Although, its not just what’s under the tree that matters most, but who’s around it.

Once the sun went down, these little elves were ready to hit the town. What better way to celebrate than at an ugly Christmas sweater party? Follow along to see what these girls get into in the New Year…

Christmas Blouses: Vintage  .  Pajamas: Ralph Lauren  .  Accessories: Victoria’s Secret & Lilly Pulitzer

Location: Rock Hill, South Carolina

Thankful for Family

The Angel family all started here, in Rock Hill South Carolina. Over the years, my sisters have moved and traveled up and down the coast. I am so thankful that over the holidays, no matter how busy we become, we always find our way back home.

These two girls are my heart and soul, Jana and Savannah. We may not see each other often, but when we do, the Angel girls are unstoppable. Being the second born, I am always caught in the ‘middle’ but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I am grateful for so much this year. This was the first time I could stay home through the holidays and I am so happy to spend it with everyone I love, from my parents to my puppies. Enjoying home-cooked meals and catching up with my grandmother are times I treasure. I can’t wait to come back for Christmas!

Angels in the End zone

I’ve got to say… it’s not fall without football! And when I heard the tigers and the wolfpack (two of my favorite teams) were playing each other, I was ready to run to Raleigh. You see, my dad played basketball for Clemson and my older sister played volleyball for N.C. State, so with all these family ties, we couldn’t resist bringing the whole ‘pack’ to the game.

We had the best morning brunching and boozing. Even if we lose the game we always win the tailgate. My sisters and I popped a few bottles and poured some mimosas and headed to join our crew at Lambda Chi Alpha. The wolfpack definitely knows how to party so it was tough to leave the tailgate.

Once we got to the game, I was in awe. The stands were sold out and the crowd was like no other. I couldn’t wait to root for my two favorite teams. This has to be the best way to spend the day: with family, friends, and football. Talk about a win- win!

Brunch at the Breakers

I tend to say ‘it’s always sunny and 75 in my head.’ I close my eyes and dream of the beach, but when I open them, I am stepping out of the plane in Palm Beach! My sister just landed a job there, so of course I was on my way before she could say when. The weekend was a special celebration of her new job, little sister’s graduation, my promotion to manager, Father’s Day and my mother’s birthday. It was the perfect excuse to bring my fab fam back together.

We shopped for hours at the best boutiques, and we hit the town to dance the night away at a Dierks Bentley concert. There were many memorable moments but the one I will never forget would have to be brunch at the Breakers. We drove through the gates, passing the palm trees on the promenade. We pulled up to lambos lining the valet. Walking into the lobby, I was in awe of the grand design of this luxury resort. I couldn’t wait to peek out into out to the Palm Courtyard.

Checking this location off my list, I must say, made me a bit emotional. I have always dreamed of being at the Breakers, and walking through the square and  into the mecca: Lilly Pulitzer.

The store was everything I envisioned, full of fabulous fashions and sprinkled in shells. The dressing rooms were my favorite part, each with their own personality. I left the shop with the signature palm beach breakers tote, what a treat!

Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, we were off to a mimosa brunch at The Circle. We made our way into the grand dining room, and couldn’t wait to sip champagne beneath the crystal chandeliers. We tasted fabulous treats as we were serenaded by harp hymns. What a perfect ending to a posh trip to Palm Beach!

Location: The Breakers, Palm Beach

Julie Caftan: Lilly Pulitzer  .  Breezy Tote: Lilly Pulitzer