Making the Most of Summer (and Gearing up for Fall)

 I partnered with a wine brand on an Instagram post to share my summer bucket list and what I’ve done–and what I’ve got left to do..and it left me thinking about all the fun things I’ve gotten to do this year and what I hope to do this fall.

Making the Most of Summer

I’ve truly made the most of this summer by taking spontaneous trips, camping, concerts and more beach days than I’ve had in summers past. And now I crave quiet time at home and slowing down. I’m planning to take it easy the next couple weeks before fall hits.

Fall Planning & Goals

Fall for me officially starts after Labor Day. My full-time job heats back up with the legislature back and it’s also the time when I book most of my freelance photography work. I’m saving several weekends for photography with one wedding, family sessions and a portrait session.

My goal is to reserve specific weekends for those jobs so that I have time for fun! I’m headed out to Myrtle Beach with Ashley of Fit Mitten Kitchen in September as her photographer and headed to the Outer Banks in North Carolina with Matt’s family for their annual trip.

I also hope to get to a handful of apple orchards to grab my favorite cider, cinnamon donuts and apple pies along with at least one tailgate morning at Michigan State University. And then I hope some weekends are completely unplanned. What are your big plans and goals this fall?

Fall Shopping

I’m transitioning from simple summer looks to stay cool to a few more layers and transition pieces like this wrap dress that can be styled for multiple seasons. I’m wearing my Birkenstocks a little less and wearing more leopard shoes. It’s a big trend yet again this fall and I love leopard slip on sneakers (these are on sale), super comfortable and on-trend.

This slouchy Free People sweater would be perfect with denim shorts and with wide leg pants or denim this fall. For a more affordable option, this $25 sweater comes in several colors with black and the tan one of course being my favorite. Size up for a more slouch fit.

And fall is the season of cheeky sweatshirts and I’ve been stocking up on a few from Target. Wear this peachy Los Angeles cropped sweatshirt with the billowy sleeves with jeans or leggings. And I bought this homebody embroidered grey crewneck sweatshirt. Both are just $20!

Dress from Target (comes in pink, rust, cream) | hat by Lack of Color | sandals by Gucci

Photography by Emily Mata