Thursday, September 1, 2022

The Soubrette Brunette in Home Magazine: Storytelling Through Style

the soubrette brunette sammi cohen rochester ny

Hi! It's been a while! I hope you're having a wonderful summer. If you don't follow me on social media, you might have missed a really fun development: I was featured in the July/August issue of Home Magazine! I had the chance to talk about my style ethos and share some of my favorite images from outings around Rochester. Should you feel so inclined, check out the entire issue of Home Publications or read my article at your leisure. 

The blogging landscape has changed so much over the last decade, but I can't see myself saying goodbye to it any time soon. Though I'm more active on Instagram and Tiktok these days, I hope I'll have the energy to keep updating here every so often. Because I work full-time in digital marketing (and blogging is a huge part of my job), co-run a business on the side, and perform whenever I get the chance, it can be tough to keep up with so much photo editing and writing. Frankly, posting on social media actually streamlines the process and it's where people go for this kind of content now. That said, maintaining this blog is super important to me (plus, you never know when a platform might deactivate your account). So if you're still here, I appreciate you!

Fingers crossed my next update will be sooner rather than later. :)

Sunday, August 29, 2021

Favorite Gardens in Rochester NY: Parks, Gardens, and Green Spaces Guide

best parks in rochester ny
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

One of my favorite things about blogging is that it's always given me an excuse to spend time outside. As a result, I've also gotten the opportunity to explore lots of beautiful and hidden places in Rochester NY.

Whether you're looking for outdoor photo locations in Rochester or you simply want to expand your horizons, I'm sharing some of my favorite Upstate gardens some of the best parks in Rochester NY so you can enjoy them as much as I do! I've also included some photos for reference so you can match the location to the post. (I've posted a similar guide on Instagram that's even easier to use when you're on the go!) 

Highland Park Rochester NY

highland park rochester ny
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

One of my favorite gardens in Rochester NY technically isn't a garden at all – it's a HUGE park. Of all the parks in the Rochester NY area, Highland Park is probably the most well-known (and most beloved). Not only is it among the best parks in Rochester NY, but I'd argue it rivals some of the loveliest parks anywhere. I'd call it the crown jewel of the Flower City.

Highland Park is the home of the annual Lilac Festival (and more than 1,500 lilac bushes!), as well as magnolia and weeping cherry trees, rhododendrons, azaleas, and so much more. It's beautiful at virtually any time of year and is a popular place for dog-walking, jogging, picnicking, and shutterbugging. There are so many reasons why it's on the best parks in Rochester NY list – and I'm just grateful it (and the Highland Park Conservancy) exists. 

George Eastman Museum Rochester NY

eastman museum rochester ny

The George Eastman Museum is renowned for its dedication to photography, but it also has some of the prettiest gardens in Rochester NY. Eastman loved flowers; he would order thousands of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths from Holland every year – a tradition commemorated with the museum's annual Dutch Connection exhibit. Outside, the gardens are well-kept and open to the public for around half the year. While professional photographers do need a special license to have sessions on the George Eastman Museum grounds, it's a great spot for amateurs like me. :)

Tinker Nature Park Rochester NY

tinker nature park rochester ny

Tinker Nature Park may not technically be categorized as having gardens in Rochester NY, but there are some wild, picturesque spots throughout the park's almost-70-acre parcel. Of all the parks in Rochester NY, this one probably provides the most versatility – making the Tinker Nature Park a popular spot for photographers during this time of year. 

Maplewood Rose Garden Rochester NY

maplewood rose garden rochester ny
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

These rose gardens in Rochester NY sit smack in the middle of some of the busiest city intersections. The juxtaposition is a strange one, but I've loved every visit I've made to Maplewood Rose Garden. The roses are in peak bloom during June and July, so I highly recommend making a trip downtown to the Maplewood Rosen Garden during the beginning of summer before the blooms fade.

Webster Arboretum

arboretum webster ny

If you're looking for the best community gardens Rochester NY has to provide, you probably wouldn't immediately think of the Webster Arboretum. But this planned community park is beautifully maintained and features ponds, bridges, gazebos, and flowers. Of course, the arboretum in Webster NY has an emphasis on all kinds of trees! While it's not one of my most-visited parks in Rochester NY due to its distance from my apartment, it's a quaint spot that isn't overly crowded.

Lamberton Conservatory Rochester NY

lamberton conservatory rochester ny
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo
When you live in upstate NY, you know that winter seems endless. That's just one reason the Lamberton Conservatory is so popular. These are arguably the best (and possibly the only?) indoor gardens Rochester NY has to offer. While the Lamberton Conservatory is small, it features plenty of tropical and desert plants that you can't ordinarily find in our climate. Those who are looking for year-round botanical gardens near Rochester NY don't have to go far to feel like they're transported to somewhere much warmer.

Warner Castle – Sunken Garden Rochester NY

warner castle sunken garden rochester ny

Although this photo doesn't look especially garden-like, the Warner Castle is one of Rochester's hidden gems with plenty of green space. This photo was taken in the Sunken Garden, located below the Warner Castle and some other green spaces on the property. Technically, professional photographers need to reserve this space. But for quick amateur photoshoots with a spooky vibe, no one usually minds. I wish I had a photo of the beautiful gardens above! You'll just have to take my word that they're enchanting.

Sonnenberg Gardens Canandaigua NY

sonnenberg gardens rochester ny

Feel like taking a short trip? Head to the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park. The Sonnenberg Gardens in Canandaigua NY have different themed gardens and exquisite historic buildings. They also host events (pandemic-permitting) at Sonnenberg Gardens! The sprawling 50-acre estate is truly something to see. 

Genesee Country Village and Museum

genesee country village and museum rochester

You can quite literally step back in time at Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford NY. In addition to the breathtaking buildings in the recreated 1800s village, you can explore the gorgeous gardens and the nature center right on the property. The Genesee Country Village & Museum is a popular field trip spot for kids, but it's just as captivating for adults. I want to go back to the Genesee Country Village and Museum before it closes for the season!

Linwood Gardens Pavilion NY

linwood gardens new york peony
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

If you don't mind hopping in the car for about 45 minutes, you can head to one of my favorite gardens near Rochester NY for special events. Home of the Tree Peony Festival, Linwood Gardens is a privately owned estate that's open during specific times of the year. You can stroll around to view the different varieties of peonies and other flowers during their festival or their open garden days. The lovely Linwood Gardens New York State residents love never cease to delight during the early summer.

Ellwanger Garden

ellwanger garden rochester ny

This is another one of the gardens in Rochester NY that's open only during particular times of the year. The Ellwanger Garden is maintained by Rochester's Landmark Society and welcomes visitors during the Lilac Festival and during peony season only. Although I have taken photos at Ellwanger Garden a couple of times, I was informed during my last visit that they don't allow tripods or professional photography. (Unfortunately, I didn't have a photographer with me!) Still, it's one of my favorite hidden gardens in Rochester NY.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles

mirbeau inn & spa skaneateles

If you're seeking gardens near Rochester NY and are up for a day trip, might I suggest making a visit to the Mirbeau Inn and Spa? While there are several Mirbeau locations, I imagine that the Mirbeau Skaneateles NY fans know well would be hard to beat. Not only does the Mirbeau restaurant provide an incredible experience, but the spa acts as a much-needed oasis. The highlight for me, however, is the garden at this Mirbeau Inn & Spa. Modeled after Monet's garden at Giverny, the Mirbeau gardens make me emotional. It's a magical place (albeit a pricy one) – so if you're in the position to go, I'd highly recommend it.

Mackenzie Childs Aurora NY

mackenzie childs aurora ny

Although there are certainly other gardens near Rochester NY that would be a lot closer to the city, I absolutely love the grounds next to the Mackenzie Childs Aurora store. It's a little over an hour away from Rochester, but I think it's worth it. The Mackenzie Childs outlet in Aurora is known for its whimsical home decor and housewares; it's a fun visit in itself, but you can also explore the property and all it has to offer. The highlight for me is the Mackenzie Childs farmhouse Aurora residents know well, in addition to their gardens, their "Chicken Palace" (pictured above!), and their adorable animal residents. Don't miss the chance to take a tour of the Mackenzie Childs property!

Want to Virtually Visit More Gardens Near Rochester NY?

Putting this post together made me realize just how fortunate I am to live somewhere with so much beauty and history. I tried to cover as many of my favorite spots as I could, but there are so many other gardens and parks in Rochester NY to discover. I've made it my unofficial mission to see as many of them as possible (and capture them on camera!). 

While things aren't back to normal quite yet, visiting different gardens and parks near Rochester is a great way to stay active, immerse yourself in nature, and stay safe. If you want me to explore more green spaces in Rochester or elsewhere, let me know – I'd be happy to bring you with me! 

Which of these places looks like somewhere you'd like to explore? What's your favorite park or garden like? Do you have lots of green spaces where you are? Let me know in the comments!

Sunday, August 16, 2020

My Favorite U-Pick Farms in Rochester, NY: Fruit, Flowers, and Fall Fun

LAST UPDATED: 8/15/23

If you've been following my blog or my Instagram for a while now, you probably know that I'm a huge supporter of local u pick farms in Rochester. In some ways, I'm a bit of a country girl at heart – and with such fertile farmland in the area around my hometown, I've been on a bit of a mission to take advantage of all the fruit picking Rochester NY has to provide.

u pick peaches nectarines rochester ny
Credit: Emma Rizzo (captured at Green Acre Farms)
Fortunately for me, there's no shortage of u pick farms in Rochester. Now that the summer is winding down and peach season (my favorite time of year!) is upon us, I thought I'd put together a little guide for any locals or visitors who are on the hunt for Rochester NY u pick farms. Check out some of my favorite places for fruit picking, sunflower fields, and pumpkin patches in the area below – and you can see some of my previous blog posts featuring u pick farms here!

U Pick Strawberries in Rochester

The u pick season begins with sweet strawberries. Depending on growing conditions, local strawberries may be ready by early June. Typically, strawberries hit their peak during the second half of June and into the very beginning of July. Often, the season spans the period between Father's Day and July 4th. Keep in mind that strawberries have a short season, so be sure to head out to your choice of u pick farms in Rochester as soon as they're ready! Note that you may be able to find fall strawberries in certain locations, as well.

PRO TIP: I always recommend following your favorite farm on social media, checking their website, or calling their u pick phone line to find out what's in season and whether picking conditions are optimal. Always check before you go, as rainy or crowded conditions can force farms to close for picking without much notice! Many farms will still have freshly picked fruit available at their store or stand if u pick conditions aren't optimal.

pick your own strawberries rochester ny
Credit: Emma Rizzo (captured at Chase Farms)
My favorite place for u pick strawberries in Rochester is Chase Farms in Fairport. I also enjoy Hurd Orchards in Holley. Chase and Hurd have several other great options for fruit picking Rochester NY residents can enjoy, as well. Hurd  doesn't have a ton of info on their site, but their newsletter and social media says they're picking strawberries, raspberries, and cherries as of 6/29/23. Other popular spots for strawberry picking in the Rochester area include G&S Orchards in Walworth, Burch Farms in Hilton, and Mendon Acre Farms in Mendon. Wickham Farms in Penfield has also offered u pick strawberries in years past (later than other farms in the area, which was great for those who missed out!), but it's unclear as to whether that will be offered this year. A friend was also kind enough to let me know that Finger Lakes Cider House in Interlaken offers u-pick strawberries and other organic fruit!

Raspberry Picking Rochester NY

Summer raspberries are typically next on the list of fruits that are ready for picking, though they often overlap with cherries (which we'll get to shortly). Expect to head to your choice of farm for the finest raspberry picking Rochester NY has to supply during early- to mid-July. Some farms may offer black, yellow, or purple raspberries in addition to the red raspberries you're already familiar with. But if you miss the summer season, don't fret – many farms may also offer autumn raspberry picking! Keep an eye out for fall raspberries from mid-August to late September in this area.

PRO TIP: Always check to make sure which payment methods a farm accepts before heading out to pick! (I've made this mistake myself!) While some farms and farm markets do accept credit and debit cards, you should never assume that they'll take anything other than cash. Stop at the ATM before you go to avoid any delay or embarrassment.

raspberry picking rochester ny
Captured at Chase Farms
My favorite spots for u pick raspberries in Rochester are Chase Farms in Fairport, Schutt's Apple Mill in Webster, and G&S Orchards in Walworth. You can also enjoy raspberry picking at Green Acre Farms/West Wind Farms in Greece, Lagoner Farms in Williamson, Watt Farms in Albion, or the Raspberry Hill Farm in Penfield.

Lavender Festival Rochester NY
Lavender can start to blossom in the spring, but it's often at its peak during the summer months. I've been to a few different events that allow you to pick the loveliest lavender Rochester NY has ever seen, so I'm sharing a few options for you to try this year.

PRO TIP: When you visit a lavender farm, they'll likely give you instructions on how to pick it properly and will provide you with scissors. During our trip to a NY lavender festival a couple of years ago, we learned how to tie lavender bouquets for drying. However, you can simply tie them (or rubber band them) together and hang them upside down to dry. Don't tie them together too tightly!

Captured at the NY Lavender Festival

If you're looking to pick (or simply smell and enjoy) the homegrown lavender Rochester NY has to offer, you have a few different options. Wickham Farms in Penfield hosts its Lavender Festival every year where you can pick your own lavender and enjoy the farm's fantastic photo ops, among other attractions. I also love the Lockwood Lavender Farm, located in Skaneateles, but I think their lavender events and u-pick may be discontinued. My friends at Bristol Hills Lavender and Flower Farm are hosting u-pick hours this year between July 5–July 9 for $15/person; be sure to follow them on social media for the latest updates. I haven't yet been to Lavender Crest Farm in Penn Yann, but it looks beautiful. I'd also recommend the NY Lavender Festival at the Ol'Factory Lavender Farm in Red Creek, taking place this year on July 1-2 and 8-9. While it's a bit of a drive, it's a LOT of fun. You can pick your own lavender, sample delicious lavender-infused treats, shop from local craft vendors, listen to live music, and learn a lot about the farm. 


U Pick Cherries Rochester

Although cherry has never been my favorite flavor (nor did I eat too many cherries when I was growing up), I absolutely love picking this fruit as an adult. Walking through a cherry orchard is one of my favorite things to do. And of course, I always have to dress the part. In Western NY, u pick cherries are typically available throughout the month of July. NEW FOR 2023: I've heard that a late frost could impact this year's crop. Once you hear that cherries are ready, don't wait to go! I believe many farms have already started their u-pick cherries or will very soon.

PRO TIP: Keep picking ability in mind! Strawberry picking is a natural choice for families with kids, as strawberries grow close to the ground and make for easy picking. Blueberries are also a great fruit-picking option for children because bushes don't grow too high and don't pose much of a safety threat. While raspberries may be physically accessible to younger folks, don't forget that they also have thorns! Cherry-picking may require help from someone tall in your party (or a ladder), so the physical picking aspect may not be possible or safe for the littlest members of your crew. That doesn't mean they won't enjoy the festivities; you'll just want to keep expectations in check and go early enough in the season to take advantage of lower-hanging fruit.

u pick cherry orchard rochester ny upstate
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo (captured at Schutt's Apple Mill)
My absolute favorite farms for u pick cherries Rochester has are Schutt's Apple Mill in Webster and G&S Orchards in Walworth. Schutt's currently has u-pick cherries, but I'm not sure whether G&S will. You can also visit Watt Farms in Albion, Burch Farms in Hilton, Hurd Orchards in Holley, or Whittier Fruit Farm in Gates. Note that Whittier Fruit Farm will not be offering u-pick cherries in Rochester for 2023 due to that late frost. For a substitute, keep an eye out for u-pick cherries at Morgan's Farm Market in Marion!

U Pick Blueberries in Rochester

Growing up, I always loved the book Blueberries for Sal (especially because my mom's name is Sally!). I don't remember picking blueberries when I was younger, but I've had a great time doing so during the past couple of years! Blueberry season typically starts during the middle or end of July and goes through August; because the season often overlaps with raspberry or stone fruit season, you'll be able to get your fill of all the fruit picking Rochester NY has to offer!

PRO TIP: Bring your own picking receptacle if you're able! While many farms will kindly supply containers for your bounty, keep in mind that this may sometimes be factored into the price of the fruit. Providing your own containers could potentially allow you to reduce the final price, but it also ensures fewer touch points outside your home while reserving receptacles for others. And if you know you won't save the containers you bring home from the farm, it's better for the environment to bring along something that's reusable.

blueberry picking in rochester ny
Captured at Green Acre Farms
My top picks for u pick blueberries in Rochester include West Wind Farms in Greece (the same owners of the now-closed Green Acre Farms) and G&S Orchards in Walworth. Be sure to check out Hurd Orchards in Holley, Burch Farms in Hilton and Whittier Fruit Farm in Gates, as well! Chase Farms now offers blueberry picking now, too! 

U Pick Peaches Rochester

Stone fruit season is my absolute favorite time of year! Peaches are my hands-down number one pick, but I also love nectarines and plums. Stone fruit season typically signals the end of the summer, so you can expect local peaches, nectarines, apricots, and plums to appear by early August. Many farms will offer different varieties to extend the season throughout the month and into September.

PRO TIP: Learn the difference between freestone and clingstone peaches! As their names suggest, freestone peaches have flesh that easily pulls away from the pit, while clingstone peaches won't provide that clean break. One type isn't inherently better than the other (and there are many different varieties within these two options!), but freestone peaches are especially good for eating, as only the pit is left at the end. They're also excellent for baking. Clingstone peaches are typically smaller and juicier, so they're well-suited for canning and preserving. No matter which kind you try, you'll be in for a delicious treat.

where to pick peaches in rochester ny
Captured at Green Acre Farms
NEW FOR 2023: My favorite place for stone fruit and u pick peaches Rochester has to provide was Green Acre Farms in Greece, which is now closed. However, their sister farm, West Wind Farm, ttypically offers pick your own peaches, nectarines, plums, and prunes, along with many other goodies. That said, I know the majority of their peach crop was damaged this year, so they will not be offering the pick-your-own peaches Rochester families love in 2023. Instread, I would also recommend Hurd Orchards in Holley and Watt Farms in Albion for u pick peaches. In my research, I came across Robb Farms in Spencerport, which reportedly offers upick peaches. Stone fruit upick in Rochester is more difficult to find – and it's also my favorite of them all. I'll keep an eye out for more I can add to the list!

Sunflower Fields in Rochester

While this doesn't fall under the category of fruit picking in Rochester, I did want to mention my love of sunflower fields and where you can see some yourself. Sunflower season is happening as I type this post, which means you should be on the lookout for sunnies starting in mid-August. Many working farms also offer sunflower fields as an attraction for locals. That means that if you're on a mission to find the most beautiful sunflower field Rochester can provide, you may also have an opportunity to support local growers. While some farms have ticketed events for sunflower season, others will allow the public to view their fields and snap some photos for free.

PRO TIP: Be respectful of the fields at all times! Many fields do naturally (or by design) have some bare areas and paths that make for perfect photos. But do not go traipsing through a field and make your own path. You'll want to make sure that the field is preserved for everyone to enjoy. That also means you should not cut down flowers (unless you're given the okay – and a pair of scissors – by the owner to do so) or destroy anything for the sake of an Instagram shot. Follow all instructions laid out by the farm. And if you aren't sure whether a field is technically accessible to the public, do nothing more than take a quick photo without venturing into the flowers themselves.

sunflower field rochester ny
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo (captured at Frederick Farms)
NEW FOR 2023: My favorite sunflower field in the Rochester area was Frederick Farms in Clifton Springs. Sadly, I haven't seen any updates from them this year or last year. Instead, I'd recommend checking out Wickham Farms' Sunflower Spectacular event, running from August 10 through September 4, 2023. There are some other wonderful sunflower fields in Rochester, as well, including Hopkins Farm in the Brighton/Pittsford area (at the intersection of Calkins Rd. and Clover St.). As per Day Tripping Roc, this year's field is on Calkins Road (close to the neighborhood of Settlers Green). You can find an exact location pin on their website! 

I've also seen posts about the sunflower field on Long Point Road in Geneseo and the u-pick sunflower field at Duvall Farms in Bloomfield (open this year August 18-20 only), though I have yet to check out either one in-person. There's also the Pick'n Patch Sunflower Fest, which runs August 18–September 10 in Stanley, NY. It looks like they have corn mazes, apples, pumpkins, and all sorts of other fall fun, too!

U Pick Apples Rochester NY

A lot of us are especially eager for fall's arrival this year, so it's a good time to figure out where you'll go apple picking in Rochester! New York State is known for its apples and apple orchards are certainly plentiful here. If you're searching for the best places for pick your own apples NY state can provide, you won't have to look too far. Typically, you'll be able to head to one of these u pick farms in Rochester for apples starting in mid-September and through early- to mid-October (though some farms start the season earlier). Be sure to schedule your visit when your favorite variety is at its peak!

PRO TIP: Keep your pets at home! Although it might seem like a great photo op to bring your pup along for a day of picking, it's usually prohibited by local u pick farms (with the exception of service animals). Because many crops grow close to the ground and fruit may be picked up after being discarded, the presence of animals increases the risk of food contamination. Always check before you assume you can bring your pet on your u pick excursion; otherwise, you may be asked to leave in order to protect everyone else's health and safety.

u pick apples rochester ny
Captured at Langoner Farms
NEW FOR 2023: I have several places for u pick apples Rochester NY locals should visit! My favorite spots include Lagoner Farms in Williamson, Schutt's Apple Mill in Webster, and Wickham Farms in Penfield. I'd also recommend G&S Orchards in Walworth, Green Acre/West Wind Farms in Greece, Burch Farms in Hilton, and Whittier Fruit Farm in Gates. I've also heard that the former Apple Farm (now called The Orchard of Victor) will be reopening under new management this August, offering all kinds of fall fun!

Rochester NY Corn Mazes and U Pick Pumpkins

There's nothing quite like fall in upstate New York – and you'll probably be looking out for the best pumpkin patch Rochester NY can provide come October. U pick pumpkins may technically be available in mid- to late-September, but visiting a pumpkin patch in Rochester is a definite must for spooky season. Don't forget to visit a corn maze or go on a hayride while you're there! This is a great time of year to visit several u pick farms in Rochester for pumpkins, gourds, maize mazes, and much more.

PRO TIP: Try to schedule your visit on a weekday, if you're able! With only so many beautiful free days during the fall, families flock to u pick pumpkin patches on the weekends. If you want to beat the crowds, make the trip on a weekday – or opt for an early or late arrival on the weekends.

pumpkin patch in rochester ny
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo (captured at Wickham Farms)
NEW FOR 2023: My top contenders for the best pumpkin patch near Rochester NY are Wickham Farms in Penfield, Powers Farm Market in Pittsford, and Long Acre Farms in Macedon. All three offer fun family activities, but Long Acre is also known for its corn mazes (and moonlight mazes!), which are a huge highlight of the fall season. Other options for pick your own pumpkins in Western NY include G&S Orchards in Walworth and many others. I'm also dying to go to the Great Pumpkin Farm in Clarence (about an hour's drive from Rochester), which has tons of offerings available. As stated above, The Orchard in Victor is slated to reopen in late summer for apples, as well as a fall pumpkin patch and a haunted hayride.

stone fruit rochester ny
Photo credit: Emma Rizzo (captured at Green Acre Farms)
And there you have it – my LONG list of u pick recommendations! This year has certainly been a challenging one for all of us, so I'm overjoyed that I've still been able to visit many of these farms and know that the owners and staff are doing everything possible to keep everyone safe. One of the great things about the u pick farms Rochester NY families already enjoy is that they offer a healthy, low-risk way to spend time outdoors and to support local agriculture. While some changes have been made and individuals still need to practice diligence to protect themselves and others, I've felt really encouraged by how many of these Rochester NY u pick farms are making a concerted effort to lower the risk for everyone involved. Be sure to bring your masks!

As the harvest season continues through the fall and begins again next summer, I'll be sure to come back and update this post with any new information that may be helpful. While this is by no means an expansive list of all of the u pick farms Rochester NY has to offer, I hope my recommendations can help to point you in the right direction for all of your summer and fall fun!

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Sunflower

sunflower fields rochester ny
All images by Emma Rizzo Photo
Last month, Emma and I drove out to Clifton Springs for our now-annual trip to see these incredible sunflower fields. We made the pilgrimage for the first time last year and we knew we had to come back again once August rolled around. The weather proved to be a bit tricky, but Emma came through (as always) with some stunning shots.

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gal meets glam arina dress

While we were traipsing through the fields, I couldn't help but think back to the last time we were there. It was a truly magical experience and we had a great day exploring the area. But that little escape (and others like it) was definitely necessary at the time. In retrospect, I can admit how sad and stressed I was then. It's hard to keep that in mind sometimes, particularly when my heart is hurting and I just want to view the past in a rosy light. But it's moments like these when things really come into focus and I can see that – in spite of all the darkness – the sun still shines... and maybe it's much brighter than it once was. I really do feel like a little sunflower looking towards the light.

sunflower blog photos
sunflowers rochester ny
sunflower field upstate new york

Speaking of sunflowers... I know a lot of other people would love nothing more than to capture some special memories in a field like this. If you live in Rochester or the surrounding area, you're in luck: Emma will be having sunflower field mini-sessions a little later this month! If you're interested you can book your slot here – and don't dawdle, as sign-ups are limited and spots will go quickly!

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gal meets glam dress
gal meets glam collection
Outfit Details
Arina Dress: Gal Meets Glam (similar here and here)
Boater hat: similar  ||  Flats: Jessica Simpson

sunflowers
Hope your day is a sunny one!

Monday, August 19, 2019

Garden Party

trashy diva garden party

Summer may be on its last legs, but I'm not ready to bid farewell to floral prints quite yet. This beautiful dress is from Trashy Diva's new "Garden Party" collection and I was eager to try out a cut I hadn't owned yet – the Norma Jean. I had to be a bit brave in this one, as it's definitely on the revealing side (something to keep in mind for fellow busty gals). But it's seriously so pretty and can easily transition into the colder months with the addition of a cardigan. Although I ordered my now-normal TD size in this one, keep in mind that the waist is firm and the bust is shallow. If you want a bit more breathing room and are on the cusp, I'd recommend ordering a size up. 

trashy diva dress
maplewood rose garden rochester ny
trashy diva norma jean

I had to be a bit brave taking these photos, too. I love the Maplewood Rose Garden, but I'd never been there alone before. It's actually located in an area I wouldn't necessarily feel comfortable walking around in (it's a really strange juxtaposition to have these beautiful grounds directly surrounded by stores and honking cars), so I usually bring someone along when I come here. That ended up not being possible, which made me anxious, but I went anyway. I'm glad I did. As long as your safety isn't at risk, stepping outside your comfort zone is an important exercise.

trashy diva floral dress
roses rochester ny
trashy diva dresses

Although the print on this dress is actually geraniums, I knew this flowery backdrop would complement them well. These roses are almost gone, so I'm happy I had the chance to capture some of the blooms that remain. It's another reminder that the seasons will soon be changing – something I'm not quite ready to admit. I always have trouble letting go of summer. Stick around just a little longer, please!

trashy diva norma jean garden party dress
red roses rochester ny
floral dress vintage
Outfit Details
Norma Jean Circle Dress in Garden Party: Trashy Diva
Necklace: vintage (similar)
Shoes: Toni Pons (similar)

trashy diva
Have a wonderful start to your week!
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