Chella Fever

Hey there, hipsters! So for those of you who are unaware we are right in the middle of what is possibly the best two weeks of the year, apart from Christmas. Actually, it’s like the Christmas of music festivals. Yes, munchkins, I am speaking about the one and only Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival! And even though I am not physically attending, I walk around Philadelphia like I ‘m about to go to the Mohave Stage at any second after I hit up the Do Lab. I do, however, have every intention of going next year, though, despite protests from my bank account.

Ok, so basically an overview of Coachella is that it’s a music festival featuring different genres of music that mostly center on rock, indie, hip hop, and electronic while also featuring and merging INCREDIBLE artwork and sculptures around the venue. Throughout the grounds, there are different stages that continuously host live music and activities that range from cupcake vineyards to silent dance parties to yoga to water balloon tosses to farmer’s markets to barber shop appointments. Literally anything you could (and couldn’t) even imagine doing at music festival is right at your fingertips. It’s like an oasis of good vibes, great music, endless festivities, and sick views (check out this Buzzfeed article about what the valley looks like when it isn’t Coachella season).

But on the real, can we take a minute to talk about the jaw-dropping, 300 Instagram-like worthy art featured in Indio, CA? This kind of futuristic, artistic expression is the kind that really speaks to me, personally. Its an emergence of combining technology with art on a large scale in a given space, and for the past 2 years (at least), some of these inspiring pieces have left me breathless. Some of my favorites from this year include the DoLab’s “Big Fish” installment, Big Horn Palace, the Pulp Pavillon, Chrono Chromatic, and the classic Balloon Chain (the names alone are innovative!).

Another great aspect of Coachella is the vibrant, boho, carefree, whimsical festival style that accompanies the atmosphere of another dimension. Some classic “Coachella Queens” include Vanessa Hudgens, Sarah Hyland, and Julianne Hough, who never disappoint with their signature looks throughout the weekend. Essentials that you can’t go wrong with and are visible on almost everyone are fringe, beads, flash tattoos, hats, flower headbands, kimonos, and anything flowy in shape or floral in pattern. If I were at Coachella, I’d tend towards my signature darker colors in a floral pattern combined with lace and plenty of jewelry. Check out the Coachella website for more info about camping, activities, lineups, and next year’s dates! I know I will!

Stay free

-B

Spring Break Forever

How was everyone’s spring break 2015? Eventful, adventurous, Netflix-induced, foodie influenced? Whatever you sprinkle munchkins did, I hope it filled your little heart with overflowing happiness. Sam and I parted ways this year (not something I intend to do anytime again soon) as she went home to cold, icy, and snowy Rochester, New York and I flew home to warm, tropical, and sunny Ft. Lauderdale , Florida. Talk about opposite ends of the spectrum, right? I was super busy the whole time I was home working on some projects of my own that I hope to share with ya’ll soon, so there wasn’t much time for some rest and relaxation. Although, when there was, I took full advantage of it. From boat days on the west coast of Florida to snorkel and beach days on the east, I was living the life Sam was dreaming of. Getting a chance to focus on other things than schoolwork, such as experiences, spending time with family, and strengthening relationships with friends all helps to keep me centered. Sure, an extravagant trip to Cancun would thrill anybody (most of all, me), but when it comes down to it, your family and friends will always satisfy you more than any vacation ever could. It’s not completely terrible either when the two can go hand in hand.

Stay tropical,

-B