It's crazy to think that I've lived in this apartment for almost two years. All the first dates, all the grocery runs, all of the laughs, and all the different shows that I binged that these walls have seen are crazy if I took the time to add it up!
I have loved growing into my own living alone. When I moved in here 2 years ago, there was so much unknown in my life. Although there are things I'm still not sure about, I know that I'm more in tune with my intuition and listening to my gut. I have worked on my grief, mental health, accountability, and choosing what best serves me.
With all this growth, comes a busy schedule. Balancing my full-time job, content creating, time with loved ones, finding time for myself, and making sure that Dolly is cared for, it can be hard to find time and motivation to deep clean honestly. I keep up with dishes, vacuuming, mopping, and other daily tasks but it can still get out of hand since it is such a small space!
That's why I'm so thankful to have worked with Val's Cleaning Services! They came and helped revamp my studio apartment just in time for spring! They were quick, efficient, and effective! I would definitely recommend them to anyone who is interested in a spring cleaning, or really any time year cleaning!
You can use my code Hannah33 for $33 off your Super Deep Cleaning!
I know that the idea of Botox and Dysport can be so intimidating! There’s so much to learn and research and it can feel overwhelming when there are so many resources. I am 26 and just got my second round of Dysport.
Dysport temporarily treats moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows by reducing specific muscle activity.
Wrinkles are caused by repeated movements and muscle contractions.7 One injection into each of the 5 points between and above the eyebrows temporarily prevents muscle contractions that cause frown lines.
In other words: natural-looking results that look and feel like you. (Source: Dysport website) I do it as a preventative measure to help fight the long-term effects of aging and fine lines. I was really self-conscious about my forehead lines and felt that the stress of the last two years really aged my skin.
Before I got anything injected, I consulted my friends who have experience getting Botox and did my own research. I wanted an RN or plastic surgeon to do my service because I wanted a medical professional to perform my treatment. I ended up going to Innovative Med Spa in Chicago. Make sure that you trust your injector before your appointment! Research them and make sure that they're a medical professional!
I am admittedly scared of needles and was apprehensive about my first appointment back in March of 2021. But Jen from Innovative Med Spa Chicago knew exactly what she was doing, answered all my questions, and made me feel comfortable.
After about 4 months, I returned for my second appointment. The whole experience takes about 15-20 minutes. I made a TikTok about my whole experience and my results a week out from my appointment.
Full effects take about two weeks to set in, but I can see results within a few days of my appointment. At the end of my video, that was my face one week after seeing Jen!
The biggest question I have gotten is about price. Botox and Dysport (whichever you decide to go with) are priced by unit. Units can range in price depending on where you go and where you live. I don't want to share how many units I receive specifically because everyone is different and has different needs. Right now through July 20th, Innovative Med Spa is running a special of $12 a unit, after that, it will be $14 a unit. Additionally, you can use my code HANNAH50 for $50 off your first service with Jen. This can be anything they offer and is not just limited to Dysport and Botox.
It can feel taboo to talk about and I totally get it! But remember that no matter what you do, people have already decided their opinion of you - so you might as well be yourself and do what you want!
Growing up I was always told that I had eyebrows like Brooke Shields. They were thick at the center of my face and then thinned out towards the end of my eyes. I really didn’t need to do much to keep them even.
However, this was the age of super-thin eyebrows. Like pencil line eyebrows. So I plucked, and I plucked and I plucked and I plucked until some of my eyebrows wouldn’t grow back.
Like this is embarrassing but in sixth grade, I literally had half eyebrows because that’s how much I tweezed them, and looking back it makes me want to crawl into a hole!
Ever since then, I’ve let them grow out as much as I could but the damage had been done! I could fill them in but if you have followed me for a while you know that I didn’t really wear make-up to the office at my old job! So usually my eyebrows were short and stubby and I was self-conscious.
Throughout quarantine, I started learning more about filling in eyebrows more effectively and I actually started researching microblading.
If you’re not familiar microblading is XX. It’s helped so many people get their confidence back from all different walks of life. I felt like maybe this could be good for me.
So I then looked into different studios and what they offered in the Chicagoland area and I landed on Midwest Microblading. From the moment I walked in I was at ease and was happy with my decision.
Some things that are important to look for when you're researching is experience and examples of work - you’re literally getting tattoos on your face! You have to take it seriously!Midwest Microblading had a lot of before and afters on their Instagram which you can view here.
Jen at Midwest Microblading had experience with a wide variety of tattoos and got involved in microblading to help people who have beaten cancer and had permanent hair loss.
They use medical-grade equipment and sterilization techniques (before and especially during covid) so I knew I was in good hands.
We walked through the process (two appointments, an initial appointment, and then a touch-up after they heal) and then mixed the tones that she felt would work best with my skin tone, hair color, face shape, and overall goal! I made a reel you can watch here that goes through the whole process!
Each appointment took about two hours. I truly don’t like needles or anything like that - and although there was some initial discomfort I would rate the pain at maybe a 2.5 out of 10. Truly nothing - it just felt like a lot of tiny plucks from tweezers. Jen prioritizes numbing the area for your comfort and I think that made a world of difference! (Important note: you can't drink caffeine or take vitamins 24 hours before your appointment!)
Post appointment it feels like you have a slight sunburn and then usually I went to bed not too far after my appointment.
It does take a while for your eyebrows to heal but the aftercare is a lot easier than you think! Some of what went into my aftercare included:
Not working out for 7 days (you can still walk)
You can’t get them wet for 10 days
You can’t put products in them (no make-up, creams, serums, face wash, nothing!)
You have to sleep on your back
You can scratch or touch them
Eventually, your skin will scar and then fall off and it was very tempting to peel but I stayed strong! (As a girl who loves picking at her skin especially things like sunburn this took restraint LOL!)
About 8 weeks later I went in for my touch-up. Jen and I discussed how I felt they looked based on what I expected and looked at how my skin reacted and went for there! Everyone is different but I ended up actually going way darker the second time!
After another round of healing - I've never been happier with my eyebrows! I often get asked how long it lasts and that really depends on your skin type! It can last anywhere from 1 to 3 years and then you'd get touch-up's as needed.
If you're interested in getting your eyebrows microbladed - I recommend it! It's really improved my confidence and is one less thing I have to worry about when getting ready for the day. If you mention my name at Midwest Microblading you will get $50 off your service! You can reach out via Instagram or email her at contact@midwestmicroblading.com
There's a lot of health trends and diets. Almost to the point that it can be easy to get lost in what is best for you. As I shift into a more active lifestyle I want to be sure that I'm giving my body the nutrients and support to be the healthiest I can be!
I have worked with JuiceRx for almost a year now and their menu offers nutrient-rich options that are also tasty! I've enjoyed their smoothies and their ACAI bowls so I figured that this would be a good place to break into juices. I've never really had green juices and to be honest, I am not sure that I will take up celery juicing anytime soon. However, I felt really safe trying new juices from JuiceRx because they use quality ingredients and blend flavors, vitamins, and minerals together.
I am going to share my reviews for their wide array of green juices and ACAI bowls.
AÇAI Bowls
JuiceRx's bowls are always made fresh to order. My favorite has always been the Harlequin Monkey! But I also tried the Fruit Alchmiest, Banana Dragon, and Matcha Bowl!
The Banana Dragon is my new second favorite. It has unique flavors that are tasty and also make for a gorgeous presentation. I would say I'm not really a Matcha person so that be default was not my favorite. However, if you love matcha I think that this would hit the spot for you! I still give it an 8/10.
You can always make customized bowls at JuiceRx if that's what you prefer! It's funny because one of the first times I ever hung out with Alexa we actually went to the Bucktown location and made our own smoothie bowls!
*I substituted all coconut ingredients of the bowls because of an allergy*
Green Juices
For the first time in my life I gave green juice a try! I've never really been into the health trend but knew that JuiceRx makes their products from high-quality ingredients so I trusted their product offering. Unsurprisingly, I preferred the fruitier flavored juices such as the Green Lemon Twist, Liquid Lunchbox, and Supreme-ly Green. If you're used to green juices, I feel like you would enjoy their more traditional juices such as the Celery Juice, the Supreme Green, Green Glow, and Picante Verde.
Green juices are a rich source of numerous nutrients and plant compounds that support heart health, digestion, and immunity. I will say that I felt more regular, my skin looked brighter and I do feel like trying the juices helped my seasonal allergies.
I do not know if I will take up celery juicing anytime soon - but I am glad that I was able to try it and figure out what green juices worked best for me and my diet! If you're in the Chicago area, definitely check out JuiceRx's two locations in Streeterville and Bucktown. You can also order delivery on their app! They're also hiring if you're in the market for a job - check out more information here.
This past weekend my friend Cori and I checked out the Wicker Park Inn. Located in Wicker Park in a cozy neighborhood within walking distance to both Division St. and Milwaukee Ave., this modern B&B is the perfect place for your staycation or visit! It's also super close to the CTA to easily navigate the city.
The neighborhood is comfortable and filled with amazing architecture. All the rooms are named after Chicago streets, we stayed in the Wabansia room. Our room was street facing and had tons of natural light! The building has modern bathrooms, cable, and easy AC/heat operation. We felt super fancy and relaxed.
As soon as we settled in, Jen from Hannah Elisabeth Beauty stopped by to get us glam for our day of activities. She took me from fresh-faced to glammed up! I was blown away by how light and airy her makeup felt and how dynamic it looked.
Since the B&B is so close to Milwaukee Ave. and Division St., we were able to enjoy the nice weather and walk around to the different stores and later on to dinner and drinks at Whiskey Business. They have a fun atmosphere that is socially distanced with live music.
The next day we had brunch from Milk and Honey delivered right to our door! Wicker Park Inn has partnered with them to offer this service in addition to many others that can be the cherry on top of your stay! You can read more about their offerings here.
After we packed up and checked out, we were within walking distance to Paradise Park. This place is Insta-worthy and has great food and fun drinks! I always go with The Umbrella that is served in a Radler can.
Another great spot to stop by is Eli's Ark. They have creative gelato flavors that you can turn into cute animals!
I always love staycations because they're a quick and easy way to reset without being too far from home. Living in a huge city like Chicago, getting to enjoy other neighborhoods more fully makes me appreciate the culture of the city and all its people more. If you're looking for a calm and gorgeous place to stay, definitely check out Wicker Park Inn!
I shared over on Instagram Stories last week that I checked out the new Sugaring NYC-Chicago location in Lincoln Park. Sugaring is a more natural way of removing unwanted body hair. It's a mixture of lemon juice, water, and sugar and attaches to the hair instead of the skin.
Their studio is on Halsted by Sumer House Santa Monica and there's plenty of parking in the area! Upon my arrival, my temperature was taken and I offered a sit in their waiting room. The whole storefront is super clean, spread out, and organized so I felt completely safe.
Once my specialist was ready, I meet with her before the initial service. She did a wonderful job of walking me through the process, how I may feel, and different options we could do if I was experiencing any discomfort. (They have fans they can turn on and you can take brakes at any time during the service to catch your breath!)
Your comfort is their priority. It's not completely painless however, I felt like compared to a traditional hot wax treatment this was a lot more manageable. It's so quick and my skin reacted really well to it.
A week out, my skin is still super smooth! I haven't experienced any irritation or ingrown hairs. Unlike traditional hot wax treatments, where it would attach to my skin and would rip it at times and could burn live skin cells in the painful process. I experienced a lot of ingrown hairs and it really irritated my skin.
I had a really positive experience and I'm happy with my results. I will definitely be back and I encourage you to give it a try if you often pay for traditional hot wax appointments! You can DM them on Instagram or make an appointment online! I have included their price sheet below.
I feel like my friends rarely NEED something to celebrate to have a good time but GETTING to celebrate Xi's milestone birthday made this weekend extra special! We checked into our suite at the Hotel Lincoln in Lincoln Park by the Lincoln Park Zoo on Friday night to start the weekend on the right foot! Paris 312, Alpha-Lit Chicago, and Danica Rose Wine helped us set up for the birthday festivities.
One huge perk of staying at the Hotel Lincoln is that you have priority seating at the J Parker. This rooftop greenhouse rooftop has fun cocktails and amazing shareables as well as burgers on potato buns! The views of the skyline were also next level.
After dinner, we headed back to our suite and began our cocktail party. Unlike the Bachelor, we made cocktails on the fly with alcohol we got from Nipyata (no drama!)! Nipyata sent us a pinata filled with candy and tiny shooters of alcohol. I shared all our mixed drinks here.
The next day we started the day off with coffee from Elaine's Coffee Call in the hotel lobby. I tried the Lavender Vanilla latte with almond milk and it didn't disappoint.
If you wanted to stay close to Hotel Lincoln when dining out, Ranalli's, The Vig, 80 Proof, and Utopian Tailgate are all within walking distance from the hotel.
In the afternoon we batched content, explored the hotel, and walked through the park across the street. Lincoln Park Zoo is also across the street. In warmer months, you could head to the beach as well. It's a really good central location to a lot of attractions for families and couples alike!
We started the evening with a charcuterie spread and taking photos with the marque sign from Alpha-Lit Chicago. We had an 8:30 pm Igloo reservation at Bar Cocina. The igloo allows you to preselect your food and alcohol options and upon arrival, you are able to pair your phone with a Bluetooth speaker and relax in their comfortable seating options. We enjoyed our spread and once we finished dinner we headed down the street to Replay for the Schitt Happens pop-up bar.
I LOVE Schitt's Creek and loved the decor of the bar, however, I would recommend getting tickets for the day or early evening. We got tickets for 10:30 pm and Last Call was shortly after they sat us. We did not find the wait staff to be extremely friendly and they were abrasive at times. To me, it was worth it because the bar broke up sections to have Moria's wig room, the town sign, Rose's Apothecary, the Front Desk, and Cafe Tropical. They also have really unique cocktails based on the show and they play Schitt's Creek episodes on a loop on all the TVs.
I always have a good time with my girlfriends and this weekend was a fun way to celebrate our girl Xi and warmer weather. One of my favorite parts about Chicago is that there's always something new to discover. You will never get tired of where to eat, walk, workout, shop, drink and so much more! I got to try some new places in my own neighborhood - I live right down the street from Hotel Lincoln! If you haven't tried something new around you lately - whether it's ordering in or walking a different way - it's worth it. It will give you new energy.
I always feel like February is the month where I feel the lowest. There's a lot of downtime especially this year with the cold weather and it can cause us to feel uninspired and unmotivated to continually achieve the goals we have been setting for ourselves whether it's resolutions from the new year or general goals.
I myself, have had some low days. There's only so much I can do in my studio apartment, and while I'm lucky to have the privilege of being able to work from home - there are still some days I feel stuck in a rut.
So although today the sun is shining in Chicago and I feel happy, I wanted to write this and let you know that on your low days, you're not alone! I have compiled a list of some things I've found helpful in my dark days to help me get through to the better ones.
Drink water! When in doubt, fill your cup up.
Make your bed - this helps me feel like I'm starting the day on a productive note.
Do a face mask!
Take a hot shower - this always drastically improves my mood.
Clean out your closet - decluttering and donating clothes helps your community and having less stuff in my apartment helps me feel less stressed.
Take a break from your phone - pick up a book, give yourself a manicure, give yourself a break from screentime.
Get ready for the day - even if you're changing from nighttime pajamas to day pajamas - make a conscious effort to change your clothes - this helps with my mindset for starting the workday.
Call a friend or family member - whenever I talk to my mom, aunt or grandma I always feel better
Eat more veggies and fruits - I feel like making sure I'm eating a rainbow as much as I can improve my mood. Giving my body nutrients also helps with brain function, sleeping, and digestion.
Journal - I honestly wish I did this more but when I'm really in my head I like to open the Notes app on my phone and write it out!
Move your body - if you're not comfortable going into a gym right now this could be walking up and down your driveway, doing some squats and lifting weights, or even a dance party! My mom and I turn out music and jam when we're trying to get our steps in.
Clean - sometimes I put this off but Swiffering your floors, vacuuming, dusting are all active ways to improve your space. So you're moving your body and you'll feel accomplished after. Plus, the more you do it, the less time it takes!
Bake! I am trying to do this more because I've really been craving blueberry muffins.
Although you can't make every day perfect, you can find some perfect parts of your day. Even taking 15 minutes to do one of the things on the list or turning on your favorite show can be your you time! You just have to intentional about it. When I start doing my hair and makeup or I start cooking one of my favorite meals, I remind myself that this is a part of the day I can control and I'm consciously making this time for myself in my day.
Please remember you're never alone! You have a support system that is always there for you. We're going to get through it.
First of all - congrats! I have lived in downtown Chicago for the last two years but when I moved into my first apartment with three roommates, they were rockstars and mostly had it furnished! So as I got ready to move into my studio apartment it was all on me.
Your first apartment is an exciting experience, and it can be easy to overload ideas and make purchases ahead of time. I get it! My mom can tell you how many Target, Home Goods, and Walgreens trips I made preemptively made before both moves I definitely had ideas I wanted to implement ASAP.
However, there are definitely some things that can be done as you live in the space. You might think you have everything figured out but as you live in the space you'll see what works and how you can make it the most livable for you!
Inventory
For starters: take an inventory of what you already have! For me, I already had most of the furniture that would fit into my studio. My bed frame, mattress, dressers, shelves, TV, and coffee table were all coming with me from my last apartment which helped me save a lot of money. I didn't want to replace any of the items because they were all relatively new and would fit into my space perfectly. Taking an inventory can help you save money and start visualizing what you already have in your new space.
Measurements
You'll also want to take a tour or if that's impossible to get a virtual tour and the measurements of the space. I hadn't toured my unit before I signed but I was familiar with the building because my friend, Alexa, lived here and they provided YouTube video tours of the different units available for me to get a better idea about the space. You wouldn't want to overspend and get more items than will fit comfortably in the space.
Use Your Resources
Once you know what you have in your wheelhouse and the space you have to work with, its time to ask other people what they have that they like, dislike, and potentially are getting rid of. My parents were huge resources for me with kitchen appliances, plates, and flatware! Your extended family or friends of friends might be selling or getting rid of something that could be useful to you so its always worth an ask. I bought my couch from a friend of a friend so I saved money and trusted the previous owner.
Moving
As you move into your new home, pack a small bag of items you'll need right away (think skincare, toiletries, a few changes of clothes, chargers, etc.) and focus on cleaning the different surfaces before unpacking anything. When unpacking, try to tackle it room by room. I recommend kitchen and bathroom first!
Settling
Now that you've unpacked your belongings and your furniture is moved in, you can play with where to place things. Before finalizing any floor plans or adding anything to the mix, move some items around and see how they look. Facetime friends and family, ask opinions and take those into consideration. I know a lot of my friends helped me brainstorm new ideas and placements that made my unit more cohesive.
As I began to make purchase decisions, I got a lot of my items from Amazon, Home Goods, and Target. These stores have affordable furniture, decor, candles and more that can help your new place feel like home. I looked for an aesthetic I wanted and I know I can build on as I evolve and grow.
Adding
I waited until I knew where I wanted the furniture to hang up decor and get any final touches. Once I knew where I wanted my bed, couch, etc. I then planned out my gallery wall and other personal touches. I still made sure to position the wall decor with enough room if I did decide to move items around later on. I looked for frames on Amazon and printed my memories at Walgreens. Additionally, I took pieces that I found as I cleaned out my dad's condo and included them in the planned alignment.
My biggest advice to you as you get ready to settle into your new apartment is to not buy everything you think you might need ahead of your move. You don't need to have all the answers right away, and as you live in your new place you will find that something might work differently than you antipcated. There will be new ideas and ways you will want to improve your space and you don't want to have spent a majority of your budget early on.
My friends and I have been celebrating birthdays all month! Cori and I share a birthday and Alexa's is coming up this weekend! With all the celebrations comes the need for decor - and Paris312 has got Chicagoland covered. All their decorations are diverse, breathtaking, and can be delivered right to your door for free.
After we ordered online, they arranged the best time for us to deliver them, and on the day of our party they delivered our order right to our door and we set it up within 10 minutes! What's amazing is that their free delivery includes prearranged decoration assembly for a Ready-To-Party experience, meaning they are easily unbagged and require little to no setup! They're always available by phone, email or Instagram DM and their expertise shines through in their creativity and genuine customer service.
I have loved all the parties I've attended that Paris312 has helped decorate and our joint birthday party was no exception. All the balloon features from their company are always available for free delivery to the city and the suburbs. Definitely reach out to myself or Paris312 with any questions related to your upcoming festivities!
I always love sharing my home town with the people I love. That's why when Kristen and Joe booked plane tickets I knew I would have to create another travel guide for all of you! Chicago is a huge city with so many things to do. I had a streamlined winter itinerary for them. When there are so many options, it's hard to pick just a few things to do.
Kristen and I brainstormed, and we had quite the long weekend! If you followed along on my Instagram Stories you may have already seen most of our adventures but I thought that it would be a good idea to compile another travel guide for an easy way to see the city in a few days in the winter.
Food:
Bombo Bar
Attached to Bar Siena is a fun and festive dessert bar! Their deluxe hot chocolates are insane and worth every calorie. You can also spike them which is a little something extra.
Portillo’s
THIS is a Chicago classic. One of the few places I’ve ever been that truly has nothing bad on the menu! I love their chopped salad, but I always take my friends here for Italian Beef (dipped, with peppers) or a traditional Chicago Dog (no ketchup)!
Big Star
This newer restaurant is across the street from Wrigley Field and their tacos are to die for! I loved every taco I had, definitely try the Walking Taco, that was my favorite.
Lou Malnatti’s
Every Chicagoan will have a different opinion. I prefer Lou Malnatti’s deep dish, but honestly you can’t go wrong with any place that serves that type of pie.
Sights:
Chriskindlt Market
A Chicago tradition adapted from the original German markets, this little pop up has all of the sights, smells and tastes of Christmas in Germany.
Zoo Lights:
The Lincoln Park Zoo is free zoo in the Lincoln Park neighborhood that comes alive at night during the holiday season! Their light displays are fun for the whole family and a fun activity with some hot chocolate in hand.
The Bean:
The Bean is one of the most requested when my friends come visit me! It’s so funny because it is so simple but you can truly see the whole city reflected into this magnificent sculpture. Definitely a Chicago staple! It’s located on the Mag Mile by some many great bars and restaurants.
Wrigley Field:
Located right off the Addison stop on the L, a lot of my friends want to at least see the stadium! The nightlife scene around there is always lively and is easy to walk from bar to bar! If you’re ever in town during the season, do yourself a favor and try to see a game in there! The history and energy of the stadium is electrifying.
The Museum Campus:
Located next to Soldier Field, the museum campus offers a lot of different ways to learn. There’s the planetarium, the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry. I grew up going to there places and like different things about each of them. You can’t really go wrong with any, it just depends what your interests are!
The Chicago Theater sign:
Located off the State and Lake L stop, this is one of the more famous theaters in Chicago. The sign is gorgeous and definitely a fun photo opp!
Bars:
Santa Baby:
There are a lot of Christmas-themed bars throughout the country for the holiday season! I checked this bar out in Wrigley in early December and we had a blast.
The Hange Uppe:
Pronounced: The Hang Up. This is strictly an 80’s music bar that you should check out if you like experiencing joy. If you like dancing and a good time: this is your place. This is a bar my mom used to go to when she was my age!
The Game Room:
Located across the street from the Bean in the same building as Cindy’s, this bar is classic Chicago. Nestled in the lobby of the Chicago Athletic Club, which is a hotel, it has full size Booche ball, billiards, chess and other games you can reserve. Their appetizers are delicious and they’re cocktails are unique!
There's always something to appreciate where you are. Sometimes it's easy to glance over details when we're just trying to hustle in our daily lives, but it's so important to celebrate and enjoy the things that make where you live special and great.
I know that this past year after college, I didn't enjoy everything that I could've in the beginning. I was trying to speed through a chapter in my life to get me somewhere else. That is no way to live. You have to life in the moment of your life, don't skip the chapters. You're here for a reason.
