When I started my own Public Relations firm, I turned to my friend and mentor, who owns his own marketing agency. Kyle Reyes of The Silent Partner Marketing shared a ton of advice with me and continues to do so. You want to know what the best piece of advice he gave me was? He told me to start blogging. To be honest, I was Very apprehensive about that. All I could think of was: who wants to read my blog? What will I write about? Will they be any good? How will I find the time?  Well, I conquered my fears and Kyle was right. Blogging helps you and your business grow. For those of you who are nervous or questioning the power of blogging, I’ve compiled several tips on on how to blog and reasons to start writing.

This week’s Friday Favorites continues with our wellness theme, today it’s mental health- particularly for women. I’m getting a little personal here, but that’s okay…I’m an open book.

Friday is here and it’s definitely one of my favorite days of the week. A long work week has come to an end and the next couple of days will be filled with fun and relaxation (okay with 3 kids, maybe relaxation is not the right word.)  So what a way to start a weekend than with a couple of my favorite things.

I’m slightly obsessed with coffee and lattes from Agawam’s Java Stop. In fact, they’ll be celebrating their one year anniversary in a couple of weeks! Most people who walk in the cafe are regulars and the staff knows their names, kids names and favorite drinks. I’m a huge supporter of local businesses and I’m very happy that they’re right down the street from me. The holiday’s are almost here (at least that’s what the advertisers are telling us), so I tried the Eggnog Iced Coffee with almond milk…ohh my it is to die for. A must try!

Iced Eggnog Coffee, Agawam’s Java Stop

Should I indulge in a latte, I head right to Active Lifestyle Fitness for an amazing workout called Booty Barre. It’s a combination of ballet, pilates, yoga and pain. You work every muscle group and your body is literally shaking (it’s all good.) It’s by far my favorite workout ever!!! Owner, Ashley Brodeur started boot camp classes in a parking lot and has grown to have her own fitness facility that includes Booty Barre, boot camp, spinning, TRX,  yoga and small group training. The instructors are amazing and truly care about you and your progress. It’s such a comfortable setting and everyone who goes there is extremely nice. Plus, your first class is free! You have to check it out!


Booty Barre, Active Lifestyle Fitness

The last of my Friday Favorites is this amazing shampoo and conditioner by Davines. My hair is extremely coarse (horse hair) and frizzy and it takes a lot to tame my wild locks. Michelle Scibelli, owner of Gasoline Alley the Salonalways points me in the right direction with hair products. When experts say it’s all about your hair product, they’re so right. This shampoo and condition give hair shine, softness and body. If you have coarse, frizzy hair, this is great for you. Always consult with your stylist on what works best for you hair. Looking for a stylist?? Please check out Gasoline Alley the Salon. Michelle and her staff are amazing at their craft and I love, love, love them! This is where you should really spend your money. A good stylist and good products = great hair.


Davines OI Conditioner

I have a ton more “favorite things” that I am excited to share with you. In the meantime, please go out and support local businesses and enjoy your weekend!

Cheers,
Alison

I’ve been really slacking on my Friday Favorites, but I’m back at it!

Today’s Friday Favorites kicks off with one of the best places to grab a quick, delicious meal.  Let me introduce you to Green Leaves to Go in Agawam, Massachusetts. Owners and sisters Rose LaFleur and Lois Rossi make their gourmet creations inside Nina’s Cookies in Feeding Hills, Massachusetts. In the morning, they serve up a breakfast sandwich that keeps you full till Noon. For lunch, take your pick of fresh salads or sandwiches. One of their specials the other day was a sweet citrus salad – mixed greens topped with a scoop of our cranberry walnut chicken salad, Vermont cheddar & a medley of chopped apple & oranges soaked in fresh squeezed lemon & honey. How good does that sound? Whether you opt for take-out or you’re providing lunch for the office or an event, Green Leaves to Go is a must try. Once you go there, they will become your favorite…I guarantee it.

We’re kicking off today’s Friday Favorites with one of the most up-and-coming blogs to follow. If you haven’t seen Rosemary and Lace, you don’t know what you’re missing. Blogger Michelle LaPorte takes fashion to a whole new level. She highlights affordable clothes and makes them look like they’re right off the runway. She proves that you don’t have to spend a ton of money to look good. I used to work with Michelle and she was always the best dressed.  It’s no surprise that she started a fashion blog and it has blown up. So much so, that she is going to be featured in a national magazine! Besides fashion, Michelle chats about home decor, beauty and fitness. You can also follow her onPinterest, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Recently I’ve been writing a number of blogs on work/life balance. As my business grows and the family demands increase, I am constantly seeking to find a balance. Today’s Friday Favorites is all about what’s been working to keep me centered (minus a weekly glass of wine or two.)

I usually write about businesses or products in my Friday Favorites. But, this week I’m straying from the norm. Today, it’s about friends. Without friends, where would you be? Well, I know that who and where I am today is partially because of my friends.