WHY HITCH BIKE RACKS ARE THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL WITH YOUR BIKE
Traveling with your bike is an exciting prospect, especially when you’re heading to a scenic trail, a biking event, or simply exploring a new area. But transporting your bike safely can sometimes be a challenge. Thankfully, hitch bike racks offer an excellent solution for cyclists who want a convenient and reliable way to bring their bikes along. In this article, we’ll explore why a hitch bike rack is such a great choice, their benefits, and how they can make your biking adventures more enjoyable.
PHOTO CREDIT | Freepik
What Are Hitch Bike Racks?
Before diving into the benefits, it’s essential to understand what a hitch bike rack is. As the name suggests, this type of bike rack attaches to the hitch receiver of your vehicle. Unlike other options that may be mounted on the roof or trunk, hitch racks provide a sturdy and practical way to transport one or more bikes. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a hardcore enthusiast, a hitch bike rack is a worthwhile investment that simplifies your travels.
Easy Installation and Use
One of the standout benefits of a hitch bike rack is its simplicity. These racks are easy to install and remove, making them a popular choice among bikers of all experience levels. The process involves sliding the bike rack into the hitch receiver of your vehicle, securing it with a pin or bolt, and ensuring it’s fastened properly.
Many racks come with user-friendly features like tilting mechanisms that allow you to access your trunk without removing the bikes, adding to their convenience. Once installed, the bike rack makes loading and unloading your bikes a breeze, so you can spend less time struggling with equipment and more time on the trail.
Safe and Secure Bike Transportation
A major concern when transporting bikes is ensuring they remain secure during the journey. The last thing you want is for your bike to wobble, shift, or sustain damage while you drive. Hitch bike racks are designed with safety in mind, providing a stable platform for your bikes, whether you’re driving short distances or embarking on a long road trip.
Many hitch racks come equipped with sturdy straps or clamps to hold your bikes in place, preventing unnecessary movement. Some models also feature anti-sway cradles or integrated locks, adding an extra layer of security to your travels. Knowing that your bikes are safe and sound on the back of your car gives you peace of mind and allows you to enjoy the journey.
Versatility for Different Vehicles
Hitch bike racks are versatile and can be used with a wide range of vehicles, from sedans and SUVs to trucks. As long as your vehicle has a hitch receiver, you’re good to go. This versatility makes hitch racks an excellent choice for families or groups who may want to switch the rack between vehicles without hassle.
Additionally, hitch bike racks are available in different sizes to accommodate varying numbers of bikes, from single-bike carriers to racks that can hold four or five bikes. This adaptability ensures that whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, there’s a bike rack suited to your needs.
Protect Your Bike and Your Car
Another key advantage of hitch bike racks is that they help protect both your bike and your car during transportation. Roof-mounted racks, while effective, expose your bike to wind resistance and potential damage from low-clearance obstacles like bridges or parking garages. Trunk-mounted racks, on the other hand, can scratch your vehicle's paint and even damage the trunk itself.
Hitch racks keep your bike safely positioned behind the vehicle, reducing the risk of damage from wind, debris, or low-clearance issues. The design of hitch racks minimizes contact between the rack and your car’s body, reducing the likelihood of scratches or dents. This protective benefit is especially valuable for those who drive long distances or in busy areas.
Save Fuel and Reduce Wind Resistance
Roof-mounted racks increase the aerodynamic drag of your vehicle, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, especially on highways. In contrast, hitch-mounted bike racks are positioned behind the vehicle, where they don’t affect the car’s aerodynamics as much. By reducing wind resistance, you’ll experience less strain on your engine and better fuel economy, which is particularly important for long trips.
The improved fuel efficiency that comes with hitch racks not only saves you money but also helps reduce your carbon footprint, making it an eco-friendly choice for bike transportation.
No More Lifting Bikes onto the Roof
One of the most practical benefits of a hitch bike rack is that it eliminates the need to lift your bike onto the roof of your vehicle. For many cyclists, hoisting a bike above shoulder height can be a daunting task, especially for heavier models or when dealing with multiple bikes. Hitch racks are positioned at a much more accessible height, so loading and unloading your bike is far easier and faster.
This is particularly beneficial for families with children’s bikes, as well as older cyclists or anyone who struggles with lifting heavy objects. With a hitch bike rack, you can load your bikes with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on the ride ahead instead of the loading process.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Mac Blades
Options for Any Budget
When it comes to hitch bike racks, there’s something for every budget. Whether you’re looking for a basic model that does the job or a high-end rack with advanced features like integrated locks, foldable designs, and anti-theft systems, you’ll find options to suit your needs. Some affordable models still offer excellent durability and reliability, so you don’t have to break the bank to invest in a good-quality bike rack.
Researching different brands and models can help you find the best bike rack for your vehicle and budget. With a little time spent comparing features, you can get a rack that meets all your travel requirements.
Perfect for Group Rides and Family Trips
If you frequently travel with others, a hitch bike rack is an excellent choice. Many racks are designed to carry multiple bikes, making group rides or family vacations more convenient. Instead of taking multiple vehicles or leaving some bikes behind, a hitch rack allows you to transport up to four or five bikes at once, depending on the model.
This feature is particularly handy for group trips to biking events, camping excursions, or outdoor adventures where everyone wants to bring their own bike. Plus, with all the bikes securely attached to one vehicle, you can keep everyone together and reduce the risk of losing or damaging any bikes during transit.
Long-Lasting Durability
Hitch bike racks are built to last, offering years of reliable use. Made from strong materials like steel and aluminum, these racks can withstand the rigors of frequent travel and varying weather conditions. Many brands also offer rust-resistant finishes, ensuring that your rack remains in good condition for longer, even after exposure to rain, snow, or mud.
When properly maintained, a high-quality hitch bike rack can last through countless biking trips, providing excellent value for your investment. Regular cleaning and occasional tightening of bolts or fasteners will keep your rack in top shape for years to come.
Conclusion: The Hitch Bike Rack Advantage
Hitch bike racks offer numerous benefits for cyclists looking to travel with their bikes easily and safely. From the simple installation process to the protection they provide for both your bike and your vehicle, these racks are a versatile and cost-effective option for any bike enthusiast. Whether you’re heading out on a solo ride, joining a group for a weekend adventure, or taking your family on a biking vacation, a hitch bike rack ensures that your bikes are securely transported with minimal hassle.
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63MIX ROUTIN3S | GRIFFIN COLAPINTO
9PLAYLIST MULTI | CHEF ROBERT IRVINE
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THE 9LIST
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#TRIBEGOALS
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ATHLEISURE BEAUTY
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9LOOKS | NATORI PRE-FW25
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IN OUR BAG | FOR A TENNIS LINK UP
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PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Frank Mckenna
THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A TRANSPARENT PHOTOGRAPHY PRICING LIST
In today's digital age, consumers are becoming increasingly savvy and discerning. When choosing a professional photographer, clients want more transparency in pricing information than ever before. A transparent photography pricing list can bring numerous benefits to the photographer and their potential clients. If you’re a photographer, then you’re in the right place because this article details why having a pricing list is a must.
1. Building Trust with Clients
One of the key advantages of a transparent pricing list is that it helps build trust with clients from the very beginning. By providing precise and detailed information about the services offered and their associated costs, photographers show that they have nothing to hide. Clients appreciate this level of honesty, which fosters trust and confidence in the photographer's professionalism. You could also compare pricing with competitors by giving photography pricing examples to your potential clients.
2. Prequalifying Potential Clients
Transparent pricing allows potential clients to self-identify whether the photographer's services align with their budget and expectations. When clients know what they can expect in terms of pricing, there is no need for them to inquire or waste time if it is beyond their means. This prequalification process ensures that inquiries received are from serious prospects who are more likely to convert into paying customers.
3. Saving Time for Both Parties
By listing prices upfront, photographers save valuable time by avoiding unnecessary back-and-forth communication regarding pricing details. Instead of spending hours haggling or negotiating prices with potential clients who may not be willing or able to pay the established rates, photographers can focus on serving those who are genuinely interested and ready to make a booking.
4. Setting Realistic Client Expectations
A transparent pricing list sets realistic expectations for clients about the quality of service they will receive based on their budget constraints. By noting different packages or tiers along with their corresponding prices, photographers provide clarity regarding the scope of work included at each price point. Clients must be informed that the pay decides the quality of work.
5. Demonstrating Professionalism
A transparent photography pricing list serves as a testament to the photographer's professionalism and commitment to excellence. It shows that they have carefully considered factors such as time, expertise, and equipment costs when determining their rates. This level of transparency also indicates that the photographer values open communication and respects the client's right to make informed decisions.
6. Reducing Awkward Conversations
Without a transparent pricing list, photographers may find themselves in uncomfortable situations where clients expect prices significantly lower than what the photographer typically charges. By clearly outlining the cost of services in advance, both parties are spared from potentially awkward or embarrassing conversations about price adjustments.
7. Building Credibility and Differentiation
In a competitive industry like photography, having a transparent pricing list can help photographers establish credibility and differentiate themselves from the crowd. By openly displaying their prices alongside the value they deliver, photographers instill confidence in potential clients who are looking for reliable professionals they can trust to capture their most cherished moments.
8. Encouraging Informed Decision Making
When clients have access to a transparent pricing list, they are empowered to make informed decisions regarding which package or service best suits their needs and budget. They can assess the offerings without feeling pressured or rushed into making quick decisions, resulting in more satisfied and confident customers.
9. Facilitating Comparison and Value Assessment
A transparent pricing list allows potential clients to compare different photographers based on their rates and offerings. By displaying prices openly, photographers invite clients to assess the value they would receive in exchange for their investment. This transparency helps clients make well-informed decisions about which photographer aligns best with their budget and desired level of service.
10. Enhancing Customer Satisfaction and Referrals
When clients have clear expectations about pricing, there is less room for misunderstandings or dissatisfaction later. A transparent photography pricing list ensures that clients know exactly what they are paying for, reducing the chances of unexpected charges or hidden fees. Satisfied customers are more likely to become loyal repeat clients and also refer the photographer to their friends, family, and colleagues.
Conclusion
The benefits of having a transparent photography pricing list are numerous: building trust with clients, prequalifying potential clients, saving time for both parties, setting realistic client expectations, demonstrating professionalism, reducing awkward conversations, building credibility and differentiation, and encouraging informed decision-making. The advantages go beyond just financial considerations; they leverage transparency to foster strong relationships between photographers and their clientele.
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PHOTO CREDIT | Naked Nutrition
JUST THE GOOD STUFF
When you workout, you have a plan in mind whether it is maintaining your current physique, making sure that you have energy/endurance, or even focusing on areas - all of these would be goals. Like any goal there are plans and you have a number of things that you may need to do in order to achieve them. When it comes to working out consuming the nutrients that you need is essential! We have been talking about Naked Nutrition for awhile and we like that they make products that are clean and are good for our bodies. Like anything that involves working out, you may change up your gear, your routines, and whatever it is that you use to nourish your body! Being able to enjoy variety makes sure that you’re not in a rut and that you have options!
Recently, Naked Nutrition released their Strawberry Creatine Monohydrate Powder which is known as their Naked Creatine. If you have been enjoying your favorite protein or whey shake, here’s what you need to know about Naked Creatine in general! It is the highest grade, fastest dissolving, and rapidly absorbed creatine monohydrate that is on the market. Studies indicate that it enhances gains in maximum strength (including muscle energy and growth), repitition under sub-maximal load, delays of onset fatigue and it increases the body’s overall training capacity. You’ll find that the concentration of this product when it comes to muscle tissue - reduces the fatigue that takes place when exercising so that you can recover quicker and perform at your most optimal level. This could be felt when you are engaging in high-intensity workouts like weighlifting or sprinting. They also test for heavy metal testing via a third independent party. You’ll find that in this product, there are no additives as it only has premium ingredients. You’ll find that you can absorb this easily and that it dissolves quickly. All of this can make your work in the gym or your studio of choice optimized!
So with their Strawberry Creatine Monohydrate Powder, you can add to water, protein shakes, and your favorite smoothie. It’s made with real strawberry juice powder! It’s best enjoyed before your workout (you can take it 1 to 2 hours prior to heading to the gym) or after. It’s also worth noting that you should have it at the same time each day for maximum impact. You can include 2 scoops in a 14-16oz sports drink or beverage of your choice. You can also combine this with their Naked Whey for protein shake as a pre-workout or with a Naked BCAAS which assists in lean muscle building. It’s worth noting that this creatine uses a synthetic creatine powder that does not come from animal sources! Whether you are vegan or non-vegan, you can use this with your workouts since it is chemically and functionally identical to creatines that are animal-based. You will also find that it is soy-free as well as GMO free. If you have questions on whether it is good for your dietary lifestyle, you should consult a healthcare professional. If you are taking a break and not working out, stop using this until you go back to hitting the gym!
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PHOTO CREDITS | ABC The Bachelor Disney/John Fleenor
THE BACHELORETTE S21. E9. | THE FINALE
PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette
We’re down to the end now and a decision will be made! We’ll see who Jenn Tran picks or doesn’t on tonight’s episode of The Bachelorette. Devin and Marcus are left to meet Jenn’s family.
While we watch how it all ends, Jesse Palmer is hosting the After the Rose Ceremony and we see Jesse and Jonathan in the audience who cryptically say that they are there for the rumors of whatever happened! Tell us more!
Devin is up first and the family takes some time to get to know him more. Devin speaks so highly of Jenn and you can tell that he has feelings for her. Devin asks Jenn’s brother if he can have the blessing and he says he appreciates that he asked, but he hasn’t talked to the second guy.
Marcus now meets her family and talks about his experience with Jenn and how he wants to see it all the way through with her. Marcus tells his mom and sister that he is trying to get there and his mom says, “oh, you’re not ready to get engaged?” Her brother tells her that she can’t make excuses for him and she needs to know where he stands. In addition, she asks him point blank and he keeps saying things that were said make him feel better, but he is still trying to get there and she feels confused.
Devin and Jenn do a fun ceremony with Hawaaians from the island. They talk about their concerns and worries with one another even though they are excited to be with one another. He hears that she has a fear of abandonment and he realizes that they are a couple and that he will need to be there for her as well. They throw large rocks into the ocean to signify issues that they have had that wore them down that are not being lifted off of them. They submerge themselves into the water so that they can emerge as a new person who are ready to move on. She enjoyed her date with Devin and she enjoyed the love and respect that she felt from him and that he knows what he wants. She also has a final date with Marcus and she doesn’t know where he’s at with her and even when she asks, she can’t get a response so that she can be settled with his answer.
Jesse and Marcus meet up to catch up with what is going on. Even Jesse is confused about how Marcus still doesn’t know and he tells him he needs to look from within to see if he really does love her and if so, he needs to tell her. While she is getting ready for her final date with Marcus, she decides that it is time to get her answers and she’s not going to wait and makes her way to him. She still doesn’t get the answers that she is looking for and he says that he is in love with her and is afraid to lose her, but the fact that it always feels like she has to pull answers out of him and he says that he is scared, that doesn’t necessarily make people excited to be in that situation either. She gets up to take a minute and she knows she has spent a lot of time and energy on someone who doesn’t feel the same way. She comes back and he continues to talk about his love for her and how he has been scared and honest with himself. He tells her he’s not giving her what she needs, She lets him know that she opened his heart to him every time and that she got lost in it and gave too much along the way. She doesn’t want to give and prove herself to be considered to be worth it. She doesn’t want to wait around and see if someone will get there. She lets him know that she is done and although she had hope, she is walking away. She lets him know that she appreciates his honesty so that she got the answers that she needed.
Marcus is on the couch in front of Jesse. He explains that it was tough to watch that back and he knows that it was tough for both of them. He talks about what being in Hawaii was like and how he reflected on where his feelings were and whether he was living up to her expectations. He said that he stumbled on some painful truths and he wanted her to know about them. He explains that when he got home, he wasn’t sure if they made the right choice, but once he was home, he realized that they made the right choice to not go forward. Although it seems that Jenn was the one that said she had to move on.
Although we don’t know what happened between her and Devin yet, she comes out to chat with Marcus. She tells him that the way Devin came to her, she realized that they were not aligned and that her heart was not in the place that she could be with him. She felt that it made sense to talk with him on what would have been their last date so that they could have that closure.
We’re back in Hawaii and we see Devin selecting rings with Neil Lane. She talks with Jesse and says that she will not let him propose to her, she will propose to him so that he knows he will fight for her every day.
We expected to watch the proposal which seemed it would be sweet; however, Jesse said that he couldn’t show the footage without have Jenn say what happened. They left Hawaii engaged; however, he began pulling away from her and not letting her hang with his family or doing any of the promises that he made to her. He broke it off with her and said he had felt this way for a long time and all of a sudden there was nothing.
They still show the video of the proposal which is super uncomfortable to watch. It’s something that definitely made us leave feeling pretty icky.
Each night during this season, we have tweeted about The Bachelorette and you have been able to can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
During each week, we let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
WHO IS CONTINUING BEYOND HOMETOWNS
PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth
THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS
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ATHLEISURE MAG ISSUE #104 | EXECUTIVE CHEF FARIYAL ABDULLAHI
In this month’s issue, our front and back cover story is with the Executive Chef of Hav & Mar, a Marcus Samuelsson Group restaurant, James Beard Finalist, and Food Network Judge/TV Personality - Chef Fariyal Abullahi! We talked with her about how she came to the industry, her love for cooking, her culinary background, the importance of integrity, sustainability, and changing the restaurant industry culture! In addition, this cover editorial took place in her restaurant.
We also sat down with Team USA Track & Field Olympic Gold Medalist, Grant Holloway. We chatted with him the day after he won Gold in the 100M Hurdles. We talked about how this 2X Olympian came to the sport, his training process, winning the Gold, what he enjoyed about his Olympic experience, and more.
We also sat down with Team USA Climbing Olympian, Natalia Grossman. We talked about the sport, how she trains, where she enjoys climbing, being in The Olympic Village and more.
We caught up with Chef Andrew Wong about his Michelin-starred restaurant A. Wong in London. He talked about his passion for food, opening his restaurant, what we can expect when we dine there, and food anthropology.
We always enjoy chatting with Alysia Reiner as she was a former cover and we find that she is always involved in a new project or show that we are already fans of! She shares with us her fitness routines, TV shows and films she's part of and more.
We also have an interview with Le Jardinier's Chef Andrew Ayala as we wanted to know more about his Michelin restaurant, how he came to this hospitality group, and his participation in Outstanding in the Field which took place in Governors Island and was hosted by Billion Oyster Project.
We're always looking for our next streamed show and Apple TV+'s Bad Monkey is on our list. We had the pleasure of interviewing Natalie Martinez to talk about storytelling, why she wanted to be on this show, and more.
Keegan Michael Key sat down with us to talk about his partnership with Lysol, the importance of teaching, being on ABC's Abbott Elementaryand upcoming projects.
We enjoy attending Citi Taste of Tennis which allows tennis stars and hospitality to come together. We love eating a number of the bites from restaurants, seeing culinary competitions that involve creating dishes, and toasting the US Open! We also interviewed Andre Agassi, Ayan Broomfield and Prakash Amritraj who you can hear his commentary during the matches on Tennis Channel for Tennis Channel Live.
We also talked with Chef Ryan Ratino of Jônt and Ômo by Jônt for this month's The Art of the Snack. We talk about his culinary background, how he came to launching both of these restaurants, and what we can expect when we come in to dine.
This month's Athleisure List comes from wellness studio The Dominick Hotel in SoHo and Abaco Inn in the Bahamas.
This month’s 9PLAYLIST comes from Team USA Olympic Beach Volleyball players Sara Hughes and Kelly Cheng. This month we have our 9PLAYLIST MULTI from Chef Fariyal Abdullahi and Chef Robert Irvine who share their songs, books and podcasts/TV/films that they are enjoying. Our 9LIST STORI3S comes from Team USA Olympic Track & Field Grant Holloway and Team USA Olympic Gymnastics Jordan Chiles. Our 63MIX ROUTIN3S comes from Brooke Burke as well as last month's cover and WSL #2 ranked surfer who competed on Team USA Surfing Gina Colapinto who shares their routines that they do, enjoy, and have Morning, Afternoon, and Night. This month's THE 9LIST 9CH3FS and THE 9LIST 9B-L-D comes from Chef Reina Tang of SushiDelic in NYC, Executive Chef Tolu "Eros" Erogbogbo of Ile in LA, and Laurie McDuffie.
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JUST SPIKE IT | SARA HUGHES + KELLY CHENG
We've always enjoyed watching Beach Volleyball when we're watching the Olympic Games! This year our eyes are on Team USA Beach Volleyball duo, Sara Hughes and Kelly Cheng! They're a fun pair to watch when they hit the sand and we can't wait to see what they do at Paris 2024. We caught up with them to find out how they came to the sport, what they love about it, combining their super powers, how they stay in shape, Safe Sun, and more!
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you fall in love with volleyball?
SARA HUGHES: I fell in love at the age of eight years old in Huntington Beach, California.
KELLY CHENG: I fell in love with volleyball back when I was 11 years old. I started out playing indoor and thought that was where I’d be for the rest of my life. When I tried out beach in high school… that all changed! I decided to play only beach in college and have been playing professionally ever since!
AM: What led to you choosing beach volleyball and what do you love about it?
SH: Beach volleyball has always had my heart from a young age. I love the environment and atmosphere of the sport. You have to be versatile and well versed in all aspects of the game. There are no subs or coaches when you are on the court so you have to figure out how to win with one other person beside you.
KC: I chose beach volleyball for so many reasons. The beach being my office is top of the list. Getting to be outside for so much of my life is such a joy. I love that there are only 2 people and no subs - you have to be adaptable and think on your feet. You’re so exposed out there on the court and have to figure out how to win just with you and your partner. Allowing my creativity to shine on the court is another passion of mine. There isn’t one way to play this game and I love pushing the envelope on how to play!
AM: You guys have been partners for awhile whether in high school, youth competitions, while competing at USC and beyond - tell me about your style of play and why this duo is so synergistic!
SH: We play with a lot of passion and love for the game. We are both athletic and dynamic and we love showing that on the court. We have great communication and inspire each other to get better every day and change the way the sport is played.
KC: We have such chemistry on and off the court. We connect well and make each other laugh. We enjoy doing life together. Those intangible things have always been easy for us. Now add on top of that our creativity, passion, determination - and we’re unstoppable!
AM: Kelly, you competed at the Olympics in Tokyo 2020 and Sara you are looking to add this to your impressive resume! With us being 100 days out, what are the weeks ahead looking like in terms of qualifying and when you find out about getting this coveted slot?
SH: I am so excited to be going to my first Olympic Games. We actually found out a few weeks ago that we have qualified for Paris! We have 3 more big tournaments to compete in before the games but we have a solid month of training at home before the Olympics. During that time we will refine some skills, game plan, and most importantly have fun and enjoy the journey.
KC: We were pumped to qualify for Paris! It is so exciting to be going to my second Olympics. This time will be SO different. Tokyo was such a unique experience due to all the Covid protocols and it being a closed Olympics. This time around, my family will come and cheer me on!! We have a couple more tournaments worth Olympic points, but after that we get a chunk of time at home allowing us to spend time with family and prepare for the Paris Olympics.
AM: What are you looking forward to should you be able to go to the Summer Games?
SH: I am looking forward to proudly represent Team USA on the worlds largest stage. I also can’t wait to play in the stadium in Paris that will be under the Eiffel Tower.
KC: I’m really looking forward to opening ceremonies! So unique this year being on boats on the Seine River; it should be iconic. And speaking of iconic, our venue will be one of the most jaw dropping locations ever - right in front of the Eiffel Tower!
AM: What's an average week like in terms of training and working out individually as well as a duo?
SH: We train on the sand 4-5 times a week together. I am in the gym 3x a week but have routine stretches, rehab, and ab exercises that I complete every day.
KC: It depends on the week and where we’re at in season, but typically as a team, we train on the sand 4 times a week and watch film and/or have team meetings 2x a week; Solo, I do blocking work with my assistant coach 2x a week, in the gym (Stark) 3x a week, physical therapy 3x a week, sports psych once a week, and Pilates 3x a week. I also try to get a massage or ice bath in every week for recovery! It’s a full time job and I love it!
AM: Do you have any routines that you do before a match to get your head in the game and do you have anything you do after a match to come down from all that energy?
SH: I have a routine warm up that I complete that gets my body warm and ready to go. Kelly and I also share headphones and listen and jam out to music while we warm up. It is a fun way to do our individual routines but stay connected at the same time. After matches we debrief as a team and talk about how the game went.
KC: My favorite pre match routine that Sara and I do together is pray. It sets the tone for the match and always brings me back to the present and gives me perspective. After a match to cool down I love to FaceTime my family. They mean the world to me.
AM: Of course, as beach volleyball players, you're constantly in the sun, and SPF is an essential! How do you engage in safe sun?
SH: Absolutely, safe sun practices are crucial for us, given the amount of time we spend training and competing outdoors. I make sure to apply sunscreen liberally before each practice or match and reapply regularly throughout the day. The Bliss Block Star Daily Mineral SPF 30 is fantastic because it's not just about protection; it's about performance. Knowing we have a reliable sunscreen that's invisible and lightweight allows us to focus entirely on our game without worrying about sun damage.
KC: Engaging in safe sun practices is non-negotiable for us as beach volleyball players. We're out in the sun for hours on end, so protecting our skin is a top priority. I always start my day with a layer of SPF 30 sunscreen, and I carry it with me to reapply as needed. I also love how its neutralizing and almost mattifying! Teaming up with Bliss with their Block Star Daily Mineral SPF 30 is a game-changer. It's formulated to be invisible and lightweight, so it doesn't interfere with our performance on the sand.
AM: It seems like we're living in an interesting time where beauty brands are focusing on women's sports to get into their routines especially when it's being used directly in their sport! It makes sense as we can truly see how it is being used which allows us to see how it will work in our day-to-day! What do you think about this synergy between women athletes and beauty brands that are partnering in this way?
SH: It's an exciting development to see beauty brands like Bliss partnering with women athletes. This synergy between sports and beauty not only highlights the importance of skincare for active lifestyles but also celebrates the strength and beauty of women in sports. It's empowering to know that brands recognize our influence and want to support us in our endeavors both on and off the court.
KC: It's a testament to the growing recognition of the intersection between sports and skincare. As athletes, we're constantly exposed to the elements, so having products like Bliss SPF products designed specifically for our needs is invaluable.
AM: When you're not training or competing, how do you take time for yourselves?
SH: I love spending time with friends and family. They are the best support and outlets for me. I also love taking the time to read, jump in the ocean, and take a nice hot bath.
KC: I love a good self care day! A face mask, epsom salt bath, a massage, some quiet time with my Nintendo switch and I’m happy and recharged.
AM: Are there any upcoming projects that you have going on that we should keep an eye out for?
SH: Fun projects coming out with Delta Airlines, Chipotle, KT Tape, Nike, Optimum Nutrition, Eli Lilly, and NBC Sports.
KC: In January we will be running our third annual mentorship camp.
Each year in January we spend 3 days mentoring and pouring into young up and coming beach volleyball players. Usually sophomores or juniors in high school. My husband Jordan and I will ask 6 local female male beach volleyball pros (ranging from AVP champions, Olympians, and Olympic Gold medalists!) to join our camp! During those 3 days, the mentees get to partner up with their pro/mentor and train with them, eat meals together, learn from the whiteboard camps that the mentors run, and participate in fun, silly, competitive group activities together! I think the most beneficial part of camp is what comes after. We ask each mentor to try to continue investing in their mentee consistently for at least the rest of the year! The goal is to create life long relationships that allows an older figure to pour into the next up and coming generation of beach volleyball athletes.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 83 Team USA | PG 84, 9LIST STORI3S PG 89 - 94 Sara Hughes + Kelly Cheng | PG 86 Bliss |
Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see JUST SPIKE IT | Sara Hughes + Kelly Cheng in mag.
Featured
PARKER THATCH | IRENE CHEN
Accessories are always that key component of your outfit that enhances elements of your look or your features. They are the pieces that become statements of conversation while also being fun ways to change up your style or reflect your personality in a cetain way! Whether you reach for them first to create your look or you finish it off with those touches, it's always something that we are on the hunt for! We have attended a number of editor previews, have enjoyed seeing items on the runway and beyond and of course, it's always fun scrolling our social feeds for great looks to add to our collections.
Parker Thatch is a luxury accessory brand that has been around since 2009 and we became aware of the brand a few years back. We love that its known for great handbag styles that are chic, has a number of fabrications that it offers, and has a great aesthetic that will never go out of style. When we had the chance to talk with Celebrity Costume Designer Allyson Fanger, she reminded us that not only is it a great handbag line, but they also have fun jewelry as well. After deep diving with the brand, we reached out to Irene Chen, Co-Founder of this line. We knew that she had a phenomenal background as a product developer at Donna Karan and we wanted to know more about how she got into the industry, how she came to designing this line with her husband Matt, and what we need to know about this brand as well as upcoming seasons!
ATHLEISURE MAG: I know your brand has been around for quite awhile, but I love how recently in the last few years how I have seen the videos that you do, the fun assortment, and how you engage with your customers as well as showing off how stylish you are as well. It’s so great to be connected to talk about the brand!
IRENE CHEN: Oh thank you! I’m really excited to chat with you as well as I really appreciate and love what you guys are doing with Athleisure Mag in terms of showing the importance of movement and fashion together. For me, it’s an important element of my life! I’m just so happy to speak with you.
IC: That is part of everything that I honestly so connect with and what we do you know. I feel that there are so many products out there these days and I think that the key is that there are so many people that they don’t feel great about themselves and they are stuck in their homes and they are not doing any kind of movement and I think about the connection of how do you get someone to get up and move so that they can feel good about it and make it really easy for you. I think that’s why I think that what you guys are doing is so cool.
AM: Well thank you!
Before we delve into talking about Parker Thatch and this great accessory brand, can you tell us about your background? You were at Donna Karan, that assortment had those elements and bones for that person who lived a full cycle from studio to office and everything in between. It would be great to know about your background and how you came to the fashion industry.
IC: It was totally one of those weirdo things! When I graduated from college, I went to UCLA, and then I cam back to San Francisco and then I just took a job like most people would out of college in consulting and I did that for about 2 years. Sometimes you look back at things that you did and wonder why you did certain things, but consulting really taught me and gave me the foundation for everything that we do like time management and all of that stuff. You wouldn’t be able to learn and that’s what I did. But then, 2 years after consulting, you decide on whether you will stay or go onto Business School in that transition and for me, I had this gnawing feeling as I didn’t want to do either of those things. I have always loved fashion personally and so I sent my resumes out and I think when you're young, you just have more courage sometimes. When I was consulting, you travel a lot and I read a magazine and they showed a picture of the President of Donna Karan and she was in a meeting and she was Asian and it was really interesting because at that time, there wasn’t a lot of representation and for people to see them in magazines and I was looking at this thinking that this was amazing and she was leading these people. For some reason, it dawned on me that I wanted to send her my resume and I had to figure out how I was going to do this.
You know, you do weird things so I pretended that I was sending a package and I called the mailroom as I knew I had to get the specific information in terms of the floor that she was on. So I sent my resume and they did call me and ask if I wanted to come in. It was this crazy thing and it happened in 2 seconds and I honestly leveraged my Excel Spreadsheet skills in terms of getting in the front door!
AM: Ha! We’ve all been there and same!
IC: Slowly but surely, I worked my way through and I really loved working with product. At the end of the day, I worked there a very long time. I got to learn how to develop product and all aspects of the business. It was an exciting time for me actually.
AM: I have such a respect for product developers as my aunt was one for a number of major brands. It’s such an amazing way to extend a brand especially when you get into licensing and other things like that so I think that it is so cool.
What led you to decide to go off on your own and to create Parker Thatch?
IC: Well it’s so funny because I was living in New York and I met my husband Matt who is my husband now. I think it was just close to the dot com time when we met and I was very burnt out with what I did and I was traveling almost every day of my life for a number of years and I was just really exhausted. We met and his mother got sick and I said, “why don’t we just go to Australia,” because that’s where his parents were. So we spent almost a year there and we thought that maybe we could do something on our own. So that’s what started us tinkering with businesses in the year 2000. It has been crazy! I think that when we started that we were a little too early so no one understood it and now it’s like we could have done x, y, and z under this company given now how the business works. We had to survive and we said let’s just do stationary because people kept saying that they loved our paper and they didn’t understand the tech version of it.
So they just wanted to buy the paper. So that’s how we started! We started our company at my parent’s basement in the room that I grew up in.
AM: Well I love a good piece of stationary.
IC: So stationary turned into home and then I think in about 2009, Matt had an idea because we were doing a lot of customizing. He said, “I think that we could customize on cotton.” Can you think of something we can do on cotton. I told him it would be great to have a tote bag and that’s how it happened. I started with the bag at my dry cleaners. It’s the craziest story.
AM: Ok, I love that story and I love when people get scrappy to figure out how to take their vision and bring it to life and to figure it out! What a good synergy it was for you to find her because when you were saying this I thought, “well just because you can hem a pant, doesn’t mean you can make a bag!”
IC: We wondered what kind of materials we could use because we had no money to do any of this stuff so then I was like, “I love canvas and we can cut 2 strips of leather.” So the bags were made from canvas that we bought at Joann Fabrics and 2 strips of leather that Matt cut and grommeted on and that’s how it came about. Then we did these stripes with your monogram on it and stripes with your monogram on it and at that time, it was all about magazine and gift guides. So we sent them out and people loved them and it was insane!
AM: That is incredible!
What has drawn me to your brand as I have always been aware of it from a handbag assortment as opposed to your jewelry, is when I was talking with Celebrity Costume Designer Allyson Fanger for our MAY ISSUE #101 -
IC: She’s the best, I love her!
AM: It was amazing to be able to chat with her as I have loved the work that she has done in her career and the way that she is able to tell story the looks of the character whether alone or when they are interacting with others.
IC: How cool is she?
AM: She is so cool -
IC: She is so damn cool!
AM: The whole time I’m looking at her and all of her jewelry and in addition to my role as the Co-Founder/Creative + Style Dir. of Athleisure Mag, I’m also a Fashion Stylist and accessories are really my thing and it’s what I love utilizing as statement pieces when I am putting looks together.
So when she was talking about pieces she loves, she was pointing to her ring and said it was from Parker Thatch. I was surprised because I knew of your brand, but didn’t know that you made jewelry and she’s wearing it and we have a gab session for like 5 mins and I knew then that I would reach out to connect with you!
IC: Oh my God, I love that and she’s just so great! She’s such a great connector and she’s such a generous person when it comes to expanding to smaller designers and she’s just a great human being.
AM: In looking at the line again closely, I enjoy the clean aesthetic of what the brand is and I also love as you have mentioned that you work with your husband on this line and Athleisure Mag is also co-founded by a couple, my boyfriend and I.
IC: No way! I love it!
AM: We have a great flow. So what is your advice to people who are looking to start a venture whether it’s your significant other, a best friend, or a sister because when you have these relationships especially when you’re first starting out to make a business, it’s always good to keep some things in mind. So what is your advice?
IC: My biggest advice honestly, and I don’t know if you feel the same way, but really having respect for each other and the key I think fortuitously is to be on the same channel in terms of look and feel. The tone of voice – that is already naturally there and I don’t know if you feel that way.
AM: Yup!
IC: So that made it easy. But I think that it is truly respect and we each have skill sets that the other doesn’t have and we really lean on each other for those and I think that it’s also about growing up. It’s about getting away from always being right and becoming more vulnerable with yourself and saying, you know, that’s not my strength.
Exactly! I think that that is about building a team. We can’t be good at everything and I think a lot of time when you start a business, you think I can do everything – but you really can’t and it’s humbling yourself and respecting the other person. It’s like what you said, this is your lane and not mine and it’s worked for a very long time – we’re still married, we have 2 kids, and we’re still working!
AM: Ok, that’s amazing! Because times get hard sometimes!
IC: Haha don’t get it wrong! We still fight over stuff haha!
You know, when you make your own business, there are a lot reasons why you got to where you did and there is a lot of making the donuts and at the same time, it’s a lot of fun! Making your own business is super hard! The key is just moving forward every single day. There will be days where you feel like you can’t do it anymore and that you just have to put one foot in front of the other.
AM: 100% haha there are times you have to be your own hype person and just keep going!
IC: You just have to get it together and just move! That’s the key!
AM: If you’re able to still do things when the mountains continue to grow ahead of you and you don’t know how you would even think to climb it because there is no way to hold on and you find yourself in an
American Gladiator situation you know that you’re going to keep giving it your all!
IC: It really is! It’s a mindset and I think that that is the key. You have to do hard things and sometimes those challenges let you see that you can do way more than what you believe you can do. We sometimes hold ourselves back from what we can do.
I think that it’s fascinating that you said all that because for the last 6 years I have been focused on getting fit and learning about a lot of that. There is this whole concept of Zone 2 training which is about running slow actually makes you go faster. I think that that concept, I really take to heart. That's exactly what you are saying. Sometimes you need to just chill out. When you do that, I think that it makes things go much faster and smoother.
I love the fact that you do that because you’re able to keep moving! Just like you said, it's all about moving forward! That is truly what it is to be focused, to move, and to not be distracted. You want to do everything, but you can’t!
AM: 100% and that’s a huge lesson that you learn and it humbles you ha!
For someone who is not familiar with Parker Thatch, how would you describe this brand to someone who is just coming into it?
IC: Definitely this brand is all about what we say daily, it’s about ease and elegance and I really believe that. It’s about how do I make a product for you that is easy to put on and that you feel great! It’s not about being fussy and it’s always about one beautiful piece that you put on and that’s why I love jewelry. I love a great white shirt and a pair of jeans and then stack up that necklace and you look 100% and that takes 5 seconds. I think that for me, that was very important for that woman that sometimes feel stuck – how do I get you to just get out of the house? Like, you need to feel good to get that motivation so that you can have a good day! It’s not going to be everyday that you may feel that way, but I want to make products that will help you get there!
AM: In looking at the assortment, I love the Charlie bag which is amazing, the Cross Your Heart Sling is another one and personally, I’m not someone who tends to gravitate towards that style, but when I’m styling on set, I actually do use that style as it’s a great way for me to have what I need to set my outfits without running back to our set up since we sometimes take over an entire building or space. So being able to have my jewelry and everything on me as we transition from one look to the next and knowing its secure is how came to embracing slings initially.
What would you say are 3 must haves whether it be in handbags or your jewelry that people should be adding to their closets or to begin establishing their Parker Thatch collections?
IC: I love that! For sure, if you’re not a sling bag person, it’s this weird bag that when you want to be hands free and it’s not just a nylon sling bag. You can also make it into a clutch which is really great for travel. The Charlie bag for sure! It’s our newest bag. It hits all the points. It zips, it’s slouchy, it’s cool, and I just wanted to create a bag that when you feel you’re in those cool jeans that you love you feel it all together. You know, when you look at a surfer or a skateboarder, I’m always inspired by them. Even when they’re just carrying their skateboard, I’m always like, “damn, you look so cool!”
AM: It comes off so easy and effortless.
IC: Yeah and the way that they walk, there’s such a slouch to what they do and that’s how I conceptualized it. It took awhile to get that bag with its material to have that slouch and we had to keep testing it to get it there. I think that when you carry it, it kind of makes you feel like that. So I think that that bag is a fantastic bag! Then for me personally, the Jane bag again, it’s all about slouchiness for me! That bag again is great for travel and if you want to dump all of your commuter stuff in it, it’s a great bag!
So those three bags, I personally use them every day. It’s kind of a bag within a bag that’s within a bag. I do love that!
Now jewelry wise, for sure the Long Links Necklace. The huge Manifestation Crystal is a really popular thing and again, I love it when you can hang it. That Long Links Necklace looks amazing when you do that and again, for me it is about the slouchiness. You can make it long and you can make it short and it has this sexiness when you wear it with an open shirt and I love that. So for me, that’s what I am doing every day.
AM: What is your process in terms of adding styles to the brand or when you are thinking about colorways? Sometimes when you are looking at various brand the assortment is so vast and although there are a lot of options, it can also generate a lot of noise when it is not curated, edited, or rotated so that pieces can stand out.
IC: Definitely, it’s interesting because most of our stuff is pretty evergreen so we will always bring in the colors and I always feel like that. I’m a practical human. If I am going to buy an expensive big item, I’m thinking about if I am going to be using this every day. That’s important to me. When we bring in the colors, I’m always thinking about the little things that you can bring into your bag when you’re looking to go out. We kind of move a little bit with the seasons. Our best sellers are always the Caramel Suede, the tan colors, and so we’re always keeping that as the foundation. Camo is a big thing for me and it’s really interesting. When we first put it out there I was like ok and it’s great to see how our camo with the pink and red stripe has really become a big thing for us.
AM: It’s cute.
IC: Yeah and it’s such a great bag to travel with and a great bag to work with.
AM: Where do you go for inspiration? Even though the line has those evergreen elements in terms of your assortment, I’m sure that you’re still adding things here and there or looking at trend reports, Pantones, etc.
IC: You know, I always say that when you look at the products, for me the designs that we do are always a little familiar to you. But then the inspirations and feel is about putting a little something to it. So is it a red handle versus a brown one?
Our bags are familiar and yet there is something not familiar about it? That’s what makes me want to buy things these days because there are so many things that are out there like the fanny pack which is our sling bag. It is a fanny pack which is familiar, but lets do it in a beautiful leather and let’s use a strap and put in a pop of color so that your personality comes forward. I think that that is my inspiration and I am a practical person so that is what I draw from.
AM: I love the straps!
IC: They are so fun!
AM: I like that you can customize it and make it your own a little bit. Going back to the Sling Bag it’s a style that generally would not be one that I would personally gravitate to.
IC: I know!
AM: But then you hit IG, and I’m looking at how it’s larger than a traditional sling bag and I’m like, “why not change out the one I use on set and bring that in?” or I was just at Governors Ball and I did have a sling mini backpack that I brought, I would have preferred to have this body style and of course, I have styled a number of shoots where I have had sling bags in them. Then once you get to thinking about an accessory paired with my moto jacket you start to see how it can be worn personally. To your point, it’s about the familiar with these tones that have a little something nuanced. I do love a good slouchy bag style and years ago, there were so many and now not so much. There are versions that are oversized but that structure of the slouch that gives that cool girl style is not always there it’s just large. So a bag like XL Jane that is in my wheel house!
IC: It's putting your vision on it where the familiar meets the unfamiliar! That’s what takes it to the next level and you’re like, I need that! The familiar lets you connect with that memory and then the part that isn’t you say hmm there’s something there and together it becomes something that you love – it’s a little link and a little extra!
AM: It’s a little something. I love that and I love visual texture. Now there is a place I love visual texture. Now there is a place for something that is completely new, but then you have to think about it and see how it sits in your life. I knew that these pieces felt familiar while being presented differently. I knew when I looked at the colorways and the fabrications that I would wear a good portion of them and in some cases it reminded me of a bag from many years ago that I either wanted but couldn’t get, or had been part of my collection and had been lost to time, or would just be a silhouette that would be in a primary rotation.
IC: Oh thank you!
AM: Yeah and then you think about how versatile it can be with my leggings, jeans, maxi dresses, etc. I love visual mapping outfits because I love collecting pieces but there is a tight edit of my go-to’s that are with me when I’m out and about, at a meeting, etc. Those are the pieces that you live out of. So I like the classic and effortless components with that little bite so that it’s not too sweet. I’m not a fan of anything personally that is too sweet.
IC: Me neither! That’s so funny! I’m not a frilly person, but I will wear a shirt with a puffy sleeve, but then I have to put it with a pair of jeans.
AM: Same. I had a fun summer boho puffy sleeved maxi dress in black and it felt a little sweet, but of course, I paired it with my Caviar Beaded Lagos and a pair of Adidas Superstars with my Carrera’s to edge it up.
IC: You always have to juxtapose it. Even when we first started with that tote bag, we put leather straps on it and then a monogram and it took a canvas bag to something that was different. It’s fun!
AM: Have you guys done collaborations or are you working on any?
IC: We’re starting to do more of them. We just did one with Larissa Mills, she has a great story. She's a mom in Boston who has this insane following on Tiktok and Instagram and she has amazing style. She has collaborated with everybody like the Gap and for some reason, we really connected and we just did this cool little envelope clutch and we’re looking to do more of that and I just feel that I really love to meet those who share the same sense of sensibility and it can be any product! It’s about making that familiar product and making it a little bit extra!
AM: What will Fall and Holiday look like – or anything that you can share on that front.front.
IC: Yeah, Fall and Holiday is really all about burgundy tones, dark espressos, navy, and a lot of suedes. The Charlie bag has done really well for us and we want to bring more of that slouch in there with the jewel tones. We are doing textures like basketweave and hair – I love hair. So I love a cheetah, I love a great zebra print, and also playing with hot pink hair and yellow hair! That’s really fun on straps! So taking fun stuff and putting it on a strap so you’re not married to hot pink on the main part of the bag. But you can bring that texture in. A lot of croc and shiny things – like little tiny shiny things for Holiday!
AM: Oh that’s exciting! I can’t wait for that to come out!
IC: We’re really excited about that and it’s just really yummy. I love a burgundy and I really love an oxblood which is perfect for fall.
AM: You can never have enough oxblood. I love it when you talk about leather accessories, I love that color when you talk about a gel mani – it’s so rich and although for me it’s like a new neutral, it’s really great in the Fall!
You know, there are a number of brands that have lived in the handbag portion of the accessory category and they are now branching out into travel and travel specific pieces.
IC: Yeah.
AM: Is that something that you envision for the brand?
IC: Yes! That Charlie bag that we just introduced, we just did it in an XL and I tested it by taking it to Iceland and it was awesome! We are going to do more of that. We’re also working on a really good slouchy tote and again, over the shoulder, really slouchy, beautiful leathers and I can’t wait for that!
AM: Oh that sounds amazing and I can’t wait to check it out.
IC: It’s a great bag and it’s going to be one of those things that you’ll want to drag it everywhere! I want people to live in these bags! Also understand that it’s ok for it to get messy. People get so crazy when they spill on it and I’m like, “dude, that’s life man!” You should be proud of that, that means that you are moving and yeah it got dirty. If there is a drop of wine on that, that’s life!
We had the great honor of meeting 4X Team USA Olympic Beach Volleyball Medalist Kerry Walsh Jennings (G3, B1) and I think that she is just so bad ass! I remember when she was pregnant and she won that Gold medal and I was like, damn, she is so badass! So she came in and she had our sling bag on and she was like yeah but I spilled on it and I feel awful and I was like that’s awesome. She carries it everyday and she’s so tall and that’s life and I loved it! It should be your companion and that is what we want to strive for and we want you to grab it and know that it feels good and it does what it needs to for you.
PHOTOS COURTESY | Parker Thatch
Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see PARKER THATCH | Irene Chen in mag.
Featured
CHRISTMAS CARD-PERFECT US HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS
We love a Christmas holiday destination. There’s nothing else like packing your cozy clothes for Christmas morning, talking about what you might serve or be served for Christmas lunch, and imagining all the snowmen you’ll build and the snowball fights you’ll have that will be followed by hot chocolate with marshmallows. Spending the holidays in the US might mean a long flight or a short drive, a white Christmas, or perhaps a warm one, but it always means a lot of love, some time off with family and friends, and delicious food wherever you are. For the perfect Christmas backdrop, check out these incredible destinations.
PHOTO CREDIT | Free photo from pikbest.com
Solvang, California
Christmas comes early in the Danish-inspired village of Solvang, so you should plan to visit any time from late November. Quaint and charming describe Solvang year round, but the town's transformation over Christmas takes it to the next level.
Julefest, as the celebration is known, is an experience that will make you think you’ve landed in Europe rather than California. The magical tree lighting ceremony takes place on December 6th, and the parade (which features floats, marching bands, and street food) takes place down the town’s main road the following day.
The hygge (a Danish term that encompasses concepts like coziness, contentment, and friendliness) spirit overflows all season long at events like the Maker’s Market. Though Solvang is a small town, Santa Ynez Airport is easy to reach, whether on a luxury plane charter or a commercial flight.
Charleston, South Carolina
Southern hospitality is genuine and kicks into high gear over the festive season. If you love Christmas and everything that comes with it, except for the below-freezing weather, then Charleston is calling out your name.
The city is already a beautiful destination, but wait until you see it with all its classic Christmas decorations. The festive spirit is strong in Charleston, and there's a lot to do and see, both holiday-themed and otherwise. Make sure to check out which events are happening when so you can experience all the fun.
Charleston hosts the Festival of Trees every year, featuring 16 gorgeously decorated fir trees. The Sound of Charleston also happens every year, bringing you a massive dose of Christmas spirit through heartwarming carols, Christmas tunes, gospel, and jazz.
New York, New York
New York is known as one of the most enticing Christmas destinations in the world, and we certainly agree with that assessment. As the snow begins to fall, the city transforms from a hustle and bustle into a winter wonderland full of steamed-up cafe windows, sparkling lights, and the delicious scent of freshly baked goods.
If you like to stay busy, this might be your holiday destination. From the Rockettes’ Christmas special at Radio City Music Hall to ice skating in Central Park, there's festive cheer all over town. New Yorkers in general, but Brooklynites in particular go hard for the holidays, so there are a few neighborhoods worth a visit to walk by all the beautifully decorated homes.
PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Marani Ceja
Kennebunkport, Maine
Are you looking for something completely different from any Christmas destination you’ve tried? Spend the weeks leading up to Christmas and the holiday in Kennebunkport in snowy, cozy New England. Since Maine is so focused on fishing, it's no surprise that Santa Claus arrives on a lobster boat at the Christmas Prelude event.
The town overflows with festivity during Prelude (December 5th to December 15th), including classic holiday activities like caroling at the Franciscan Monastery. During this street festival, you can sip, nibble, and shop away any winter blues and view the town’s most famous Christmas tree made from lobster traps.
In most cultures, Christmas isn't traditionally a seafood season, but spending the holidays here will make gingerbread and sugar plums a thing of the past. Lobster rolls are the new turkey.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans doesn't do half-measures when it comes to its celebrations. The installations and decorations that pepper the city during December are the perfect complement to all the delicious festival food and drinks served up at festivals like Celebration in the Oaks, and that's over and above the delightful foodie experiences available in New Orleans all year long.
If you’re in the city on Christmas Eve, you’ll be in for a real treat at the annual lighting of the bonfires along the banks of the gorgeous Mississippi. If you’re lucky enough to stay at the Ritz Carlton, you can enjoy events like gingerbread house building and even a four-course dinner after watching the bonfires spring into action.
PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Luka Susak
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Christmas in a desert climate is different for many Americans, and Santa Fe is ready to be your host with the most. The city is gorgeous, warm, and welcoming all year round, but the way the plaza is lit up and twinkling every holiday season adds a bit of happiness and cheer.
If you’re the church-going type, you can attend a traditional midnight mass at the well-known and visually stunning Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi. If art galleries are your version of church, check out the seasonal exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art every year. There are flamenco performances, gorgeous winter markets and fairs, and wonderfully mild temperatures to enjoy.
The Most Wonderful Time of Year
The Christmas holidays are a wonderful time of year best experienced with the ones you love. Choosing any one of these unique and enticing Christmas destinations will help you create memories that will last a lifetime.
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