Cassie DeNisco

Creating a Capsule Wardrobe: The Pros & Cons

March 28, 2022

I have long been interested in breaking down my closet and transitioning to a capsule wardrobe. This basically just means you have a few pieces that for the most part you can wear together. I definitely could not fully commit to this but I did have fun picking out pieces that I felt would best fit a capsule wardrobe.

These are essentials basics that can be paired with anything. I’ll leave a few links to the items I mention which are affiliate links but I honestly think the key here is finding what you like. You’re basically downsizing your closet so you have to have pieces that you love no matter what.

The Pros

I’ve found it so easy to create outfits. With such a packed closet, it was often overwhelming to look through. By narrowing it down to primarily basics with some funky pieces thrown in, I can easily see everything and put outfits together.

In addition to quickly creating outfits, I feel like I’ve saved some money. I initially invested in good quality basics so i don’t really need to be spending a crazy amount on clothes each month. For the most part, I’m just adding in more trendy pieces once in awhile.

I think the most obvious pro is that your closet is organized and clean because you don’t have the clutter. My clothes take up about half the space they used to so it is nice having more room and the ability to actually look for clothes.

The Cons

I miss a big closet. This was something that I always thought wouldn’t have been a problem. I was constantly trying to get rid of clothes but turns out I liked having a lot. I’m super indecisive so I feel like having many choices was easier on me.

It takes a while to get there. I had been finding and investing in pieces for a while before I could say I had a good capsule. I wanted to make sure I loved the pieces and actually wanted to wear them. Not to mention, actually downsizing a closet takes a lot of time.

I noticed all I had was black clothes. I guess for some reason in my head capsule meant black pieces so I really was just buying black basics. I love black but at the same time I like other neutrals and pops of color once in awhile.

I think trying to create a capsule wardrobe is something everyone should try. I don’t think you need to go out and throw all a way. I do think this helps you learn a lot about what you do like and actually will wear.

Let me know in the comments below your closet strategy and if you’ll try a capsule wardrobe! You can check out more fashion posts here or subscribe to my blog here!

Content Creation Tips & Tricks

March 21, 2022

As many of you know, I am a freelance social media manager on top of blogger and dance teacher. I feel like because of this, I know a little more than the average blogger. This helps me utilize these content creation tips to keep me consistent.

A lot of people will say just be a content creator but they don’t realize how much actually goes into it. I didn’t start to see a real amount of money from my blog until about 3 years in after being consistent. This post is all about how and why I follow the content schedule I do and why you need to have one.

Honestly, I would say a content schedule that you can stick to is probably the most important key to growing any brand. A content schedule is not only when you’ll post on social but also when you’ll create that content. You need to have the content to post so it’s crucial that you stay on schedule and have content prepared.

Establishing a Schedule

I’ve found that I am best able to promote and spend time answering comments on a blog post on a Monday morning, which is why all of my blog posts are then at 9am. I decided this year to up my posts so I added two others during the month on Wednesdays. I average about 6 posts a month on the blog which is a lot.

In addition to the posts, I have to post on IG, Pinterest, Tik Tok to promote the post after it’s live which also is why Mondays are best for me. Establishing when you are going to post not only keeps you accountable but people come to expect content from you on those days. This easy transition helps you create a community that knows when to come back for more.

Content Ideas

In addition to a schedule, I like to start a running list of dates throughout the year I’m going to post. This helps me see what content would do best during those months and gives me a spot to write down my ideas.

I honestly just googled Mondays in 2022 and copy/pasted it into a Google Doc. I can access this whenever I get an idea and it helps me always have ideas when maybe I’m in a crunch to post. Visually, this also helps me cross off what I’ve already created for the month to know what I still need to do.

I recently just started this for my other socials which seriously has changed the game for me. I can plan out all of my content for the month and then I just need to write/record/create.

Creation

Once you figure out step one and two, creation really shouldn’t be too hard for you. Obviously you need to create it but if you already have the idea and when it needs to go live, you can just jump in.

I like to create my blog posts at least a month in advance just in case I have something come up one week. This buffer ensures I’ll always have a post go live. Sometimes I will post randomly if it’s time sensitive but for the most part I like to be ahead.

As for socials, I like to post in real time if I can. This means that I’ll create then post right away. I feel like my posts are usually more informal so it’s good for me to just get it out.

Creation Days

I like to set each day a week as a different platform. I’m almost always creating blog posts on Mondays and Tuesdays. I’ve been trying to create Tik Toks on Wednesdays and then I usually take my IG pictures on the weekends.

I like to batch create content so that I only have to get fully ready once in awhile and I can just get whatever I need done. This is probably my biggest tip to stay accountable because by setting a day aside for one platform, you don’t have the ability to not get it done if you have other days that are for other platforms.

I hope this post was informative for you in creating your content schedule and with content creation tips. Honestly, I wish I knew this back in the beginning because it would’ve saved me so much time. I used to create whenever I felt like it, which is of course great but not when you’re having an off week and don’t want to create anything.

Let me know if setting up a content schedule helped you to level up your content or if you liked these content creation tips! To read more social media posts like this click here! Don’t forget to subscribe to my mailing list here so you never miss a post!

Pet Favorites I Can’t Live Without!

March 16, 2022

Now that I’m a dog mom, I am always on the look out for new pet favorites. Today’s bonus post is dedicated to all the products I’ve found that make life so much easier. I think that the key to having a pet is finding products that work for the both of you.

As we head into the warmer months, I find myself grabbing for these products even more on walks and trips. I have affiliate links to each product below but there is no pressure to purchase from them!

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag- Shop Here

This little bag is essential for my walks. I find that since we’re not wearing jackets in the spring with pockets, I need something like this. It perfectly fits my phone, keys, and of course treats for Sky.

Not only is this bag functional but I love that it is stylish and comes in lots of colors. This was also a great travel bag when we were on vacation but it fit everything I’d want to carry!

Snuffle Mat- Shop Here

At first glance you’re probably like you are crazy. This snuggle mat is seriously the greatest part of Sky’s day. I throw some treats in it, pull it smaller, and then she’s busy for about 15 minutes.

Enrichment toys like this are a great addition to your dogs day. They help to keep your dog busy and stimulate their brains. I like these especially on rainy days when Sky doesn’t want to walk but I know she needs to do something.

Freeze Dried Treats- Shop Here

Sky picked these out herself when we were at the pet store. They were on a bottom shelf and she wouldn’t stop sniffing them. She ended up loving them so we are now freeze dried raw people.

It’s funny because these used to gross me out but they really have a lot of health benefits for pups. I use these as a high value treat for her when we’re out and about and I need her attention.

I told you these bonus posts would be short and sweet! I’ve been enjoying putting them together for you to get more content out!

Let me know any pet favorites that you have tried or if you are planning to try any of these!! For more pet posts click here!

My Baked Oats Recipe!

March 14, 2022

If Tik Tok has taught me anything, it’s how to make a baked oats recipe to die for! Baked oats essentially is oatmeal that instead of cooking on the stove you blend the ingredients then bake. It turns into this delicious cake like breakfast that is so satisfying and delicious.

Baked oats is great because you can really customize it to your preferences. I’ve made it a few different ways but always go back to this simple recipe. This might seem super intimidating to make but with a few ingredients and a good blender you’ll have a great breakfast in no time!

Ingredients:

1/2 c Oats
1 Ripe Banana
1/2 c Almond Milk
1 tsp Baking Powder
Dash of Cinnamon
1 tsp Vanilla
1 tbsp Peanut Butter
Handful of vegan chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degreees
Add oats, almond milk, banana, baking powder, vanilla, peanut butter and cinnamon to a blender and blend thoroughly.
Spray a mini baking safe pan and pour in mixture.
Sprinkle chocolate chips on top and bake for 30-40 minutes depending on how you like it. (Sometimes I like a gooey center and others I want it completely baked)

Do you see how easy and healthy it is to have cake for breakfast? I’ve even seen some people take out their baked oats and drizzle a little almond milk on top to make it even more gooey.

This baked oats recipe is my go to on mornings I’m craving something sweet and have time to make it. I wish I could make this every morning but because it does take a bit it’s a once in awhile thing for me.

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Death by Dissertation- Book Review!

March 9, 2022

I’m back with my March book of the month! I can hardly believe that it’s March and I’m already sharing my 3rd book of the year! I wanted to switch it up this month and I chose a light hearted mystery. I’ve found that I don’t love heavy books and this one is really fun and an easy read. This month we’re talking all about Death by Dissertation by Kelly Brakenhoff.

Death by Dissertation– Shop Here

I initially was drawn to this book because the main character and I share the same name, Cassandra. Cassandra Sato is an admin at a college where a death happens to one of her students. She finds herself thrown into the investigation and ends up uncovering more clues than the police.

I really enjoyed this book because the mystery was simple and easy to follow. On top of that, Cassandra is a really likeable character that calls her parents and has some love interest in the men she works around. Overall, this book has a little bit of everything: Mystery, friendship, and a hint of romance.

After reading It Happened One Summer and The Light we Lost, I was in the mood to switch of the genre. I actually found this one through the Kindle app and was excited to see it’s a series. I realize that I’m more inclined to choose a book if it at least has one other book in the series. Sometimes one book just isn’t enough for the characters so I gravitate towards series.

The best way I can describe this is like an adult Nancy Drew. Cassandra is balancing a full time job with a crazy boss, love life, friends, and making time to call her parents all while solving a mysterious death on campus. You’re really able to relate to her which I really appreciate.

I can’t stress enough that because I read before bed I don’t want any crazy scary books. I like easy reads that have a good story line. Death by Dissertation was perfect for me and gave me that mystery feel I was looking for. I’m excited to read the other books in this series!

I hope you have been enjoying these books of the month! It’s so fun to share my favorite book that I read that month. I actually have a goal of 75 books this year so we’ll see if I make it. I am always looking for more recommendations so let me know in the comments what you’re reading!

That Girl Night Routine!

March 7, 2022

If you know me, you know I am passionate about good sleep and unwinding at night. I’ve even written posts about it like this one for tips for better sleep! I wanted to share my version of the that girl night routine because I think this concept is really interesting.

This trend has a negative connotation because people feel like they need to act or do things a certain way. I think it’s really just bettering yourself and making sure you are the best version of you. The that girl night routine vibe is just helpful to inspire you to want to take better care of your mental and physical health.

With that being said, here are 5 things to do before bed for better sleep!

Lighting Matters

This is my top tip that I always suggest. Turn off or dim your lights a few hours before you plan to go to bed. As soon as I get home from work I like to start to turn off lights after I use them so that my brain starts to process that the darkness means sleep.

I feel like too bright of lights will keep your body awake. It helps to get you in the mood to lay down when the lights are dim and cozy anyway. This will help making falling asleep easier.

No Phone

This one was seriously a tough one to get used to. It seriously has made such a difference though. I use the sleep feature on my iPhone and actually have it set to go on for 8pm. Essentially this turns on do not disturb so you’re not seeing any notifications.

When the light on your phone keeps popping up from notifications your more tempted to check it. I like to just put my phone on charge and maybe turn on a show or my next step to help me unwind.

Reading Helps

If you are someone that likes reading, try it right before bed. Unless I’m reading a really high action thriller, my eyes almost always get heavy after reading for like 30-45 minutes. Most nights I turn to reading instead of a show in order to reduce that light and screen time.

I try to just make sure that whatever I read isn’t going to be too exciting or interesting so that it doesn’t have the opposite affect on me. I’m currently sharing one book a month for my book club so be sure to check out the posts here!

Essential Oils

Essential oils are my very final step. I love falling asleep to the smell of lavender and I almost feel like I have conditioned myself to fall asleep as soon as I smell it. Sometimes I’ll even put a drop in my humidifier so that the entire room smells good.

Essential oils are really underrated and I think more people would like them if they gave them a try. I even have body wash and bath soaps that have the essentials oils infused in them so if I shower at night, I’m setting myself up for success.

Don’t Stress

One thing I hear all the time when I hear people talk about sleep is how they get stressed about it. You have to go in with an open mind and not worry if it takes a bit to fall asleep. There’s no worse feeling then watching the clock tick by because you’re stressed that you’re not asleep yet.

If you can’t sleep one night, that’s totally fine but get up and get water, or take a lap in your house. Don’t let yourself spiral into anxiety and stress which will only prevent you from sleeping.

Like I said, I am all about good sleep. I think quality sleep seriously sets you up for a great day and keeps you going. These things have seriously helped me to unwind and honestly get in the mood for sleep. I hope they help you too.

The that girl night routine is all about being your best you and honestly that’s why I love it so much. Night routine posts are always my favorite to write. Let me know if you liked this post and be sure to comment more posts you want to see from me!

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24 Things I Manifested Before Turning 24

February 28, 2022

Because this post is going live on February 28th, the night before my 24th birthday, I wanted to reflect on my life so far! I came up with this idea of 24 things I manifested before turning 24 as a way to look back on everything I’ve accomplished so far.

Manifesting isn’t this crazy concept. It’s based along the principle of speaking things you want in life into existence. You have to focus on specific ideas and the universe will help guide you towards them. I think making room to dream about your future is so important in helping you actually want to work towards it. You’ll see some of these things are huge goals, and others are just small daily things that make my life so much better.

24 Things I Manifested

1.My Puppy

2. The Blog

3. Paying off half of my college loans in cash right out of college

4. Purchasing a new car on my own

5. Able to dance & teach dance everyday

6. Working from home

7. My relationship 🙂

8. Ability to Travel

9. Financially Indepedent

10. Healthy Lifestyle

11. Time to read everyday

12. Being close with my family

13. Able to do something creative everyday

14. Managing stress and anxiety

15. Parents who support whatever I do

16. Time for hobbies and to explore other things that interest me

17. Brand partnerships from my blog

18. Creating a side digital marketing business

19. Toxic people leaving my life

20. Intentional with every action I take

21. Finding what makes me happiest

22. Letting go of things that don’t serve me

23. Ability to manifest & just let the universe move through you

24. Being grateful for everything no matter what

Wrap Up

As you can see, this list has all sorts of things on it. Whether you manifest, pray, or just set intentions they all do the same thing. Just focus so hard on what you want in your life and just let things take their course.

I am so grateful that I realized how powerful manifesting was and was able to have this list. Manifesting isn’t magic and you won’t over night be able to meet some goals. Living each day focusing on only what you want and letting go of things that don’t serve you will help you reach whatever you want.

I am so grateful to have built this community and am able to continue to share all my favorite things with you. Let me know in the comments if manifesting has worked for you!

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My Healthy Dessert Recipe!

February 21, 2022

This healthy dessert recipe is delicious!! I used to not like dates but making them this way has changed my dessert game forever. I find myself always craving something sweet to finish off the night but I just wanted a healthier alternative.

This recipe uses dates to make a healthy version of a candy similar to a snickers bar. I know you might be thinking dates are kind of weird but they actually give off a caramel vibe paired with this chocolate and peanut butter treat!

Anyone can make this recipe because it is just that simple! Here’s the recipe for my favorite healthy dessert!

Ingredients

Pitted medjool dates

Peanut butter

Chocolate chips

Directions

Open up the date and put some peanut butter in the middle.
Melt some chocolate and completely cover the date in it.
Let the dates set in fridge for about 30 minutes and enjoy!

As you can see this recipe is so simple and only had 3 ingredients! I’ve seen some people take some flaky salt and add it to the top for a sweet/salty vibe. I personally am just all for the sweets so I leave it just like that.

I love this healthy dessert recipe because it really is a great alternative dessert. I never am one to deny cravings but I also know that I should sometimes try to swap it out for something healthier. Let me know in the comments below your favorite healthy dessert recipe!

Check out more recipes here! Be sure to subscribe to my mailing list here to never miss a post!

My Wellness Favorites!

February 16, 2022

This year instead of resolutions I decided to choose a word to live by. I picked “wellness” which just means I’ll be more conscious of my well being than I was last year. Whether it’s working out, eating right, or honestly just slowing down and taking time for me I want to promote and elevate my wellness.

With that being said, January was a bit of a transition month for me with this and I found some products that I seriously love. These wellness favorites range from all different categories and seriously have helped raise my game for wellness!

The Five Minute Journal- Shop Here

This guided prompt journal was game changing for me. Before the new year I had tried to journal and write out my thoughts but honestly it became a chore. I often was struggling with what to write and stopped enjoying it.

I loved this journal when I found it because there’s 3 questions for the morning and 2 for the evening. They’re short and sweet but get me thinking about what I’m grateful for and set up my mindset for the day. I also like that there’s room to reflect at night how the day went. Highly recommend if you’re looking to start journaling but need a prompt to get you started.

Microwave Heating Pad- Shop Here

I became obsessed with this. There was not a morning or night that I did not heat this up and use it on my neck, feet, or back. I live in NY where it is so cold in the winter so this just helped to relax me and elevated my mood and my vibrations.

I love that you can just microwave this because it is so easy to use. I don’t like the plug in kinds because you have to sit near and outlet. Although this will lose it’s heat, by the time it started to cool down I was ready to either go to sleep or get going with my day.

Melatonin & CBD Gummies- Shop Here

I am usually a great sleeper but once or twice a month my anxiety runs wild. These CBD + melatonin gummies are everything for the nights I need to relax and shut off my mind. I usually take some time to read before bed so I’ll take 1 of these and in like 30 minutes I’m ready for bed.

I’ve tried other gummies before this but they honestly leave you groggy in the morning. I think because these have CBD they help you to fall asleep, stay asleep, but wake up refreshed and ready to go. Highly recommend these but of course take at your own discretion!

Pajama Set- Shop Here

I just had to include this pj set because I swear it instantly makes me cozy and relaxed. I got this set off of Amazon after I wasn’t quite sure if I wanted to invest in the more expensive version. This dupe did not disappoint me and I wear the robe like all the time.

I have a Barefoot Dreams robe but since this one is significantly cheaper, I find myself wearing it more. I don’t feel nervous cooking in it because it wasn’t as expensive. These Pj’s are so soft and seriously make me feel ready for bed the second I put them on.

Bamboo Pillow- Shop Here

I was definitely a skeptic when it comes to pillows. I liked pretty soft and squishy pillows because they’re honestly the comfiest. Over winter break I got a COVID booster and I was down for a few days. The only thing that helped me sleep was my boyfriends super thick pillow.

Ever since then, I have slept religiously ever night and I think everyone needs one. The stiffness is great especially if I want to read. It keeps be propped up enough but still comfy and cozy in bed!

As you can see, these wellness favorites are all for better sleep and just overall relaxation. I think for me, wellness seriously just means reducing stress and using that to live my life. We live in such a face paced world that is like perfect for anxiety to grow and it takes a toll on you.

Using these wellness favorites have helped me to take a step back and be able to shut off the world when I’m home. It’s so important to me to use my house as a safe space that isn’t chaotic and each of these products just elevates that feeling for me!

Let me know in the comments below your resolutions or word for 2022! You can check out my last favorites post here! Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter here!

My Top Date Ideas in NYC

February 14, 2022

In honor of this being posted on Valentine’s Day, I wanted to share some of my top date ideas in NYC! Whether you live in the city or are planning a trip, these places and restaurants are must stops in the city.

For me, the city is only about a 45 minute train ride or drive away so I find myself in the city quite a bit. I’ve curated this list over the past few years. I wanted to make sure I hit the major categories like food, entertainment, and of course shopping!

Dinner & Drinks

Italian in Little Italy

Not sure about you but there’s nothing more romantic to me in the city than Little Italy. It has this adorable charm to it and some really great restaurants to just pop into for dinner. One of my favorites is Capri but I honestly just like to walk around a pop into whatever looks good. It’s always fun to discover something new and it kind of makes that place special for the both of you!

LadyBird Vegan Tapas

I have yet to actually go to LadyBird yet but I have heard nothing but great things. It’s a vegan apps and drinks kind of restaurant and the inside is decorated beautifully. If you’re looking for a quicker bite to eat and are in the area I think this is a great option!

What to Do

A Trip to the Met

This is one of my favorite things to do in the city. The Met is seriously a beautiful museum and honestly, it could take a you a few times to check everything out. I love finishing up at the Met and then walking through Central Park. This combo is literally perfect and honestly a great activity that’s not too expensive but gives you plenty to talk about.

A Walk Around South Street Seaport

If you’re looking for a less city atmosphere but great views, South Street by the boats is for you. I love this area because of the water and the peacefulness it has. Crazy that you can find this pocket of peace in the craziness of the city. This area also has some shops and restaurants so there’s more to do than just look at the water.

Where to Shop

The Shops at Hudson Yards

Not only is the building across the street sick but you get the mall vibe in the city. If you want to go shopping but not have to pop around streets this is great. I like this for a date idea because this area has a lot to do so you can stay in one place, eat and shop at once.

Soho

This is more of a general are to shop in. Of course you can head up and down Fifth Ave but I feel like for a date you’re looking more for a vibe and experience. Fifth tends to be a bit busy and I like the Soho quaintness.

I hope this top date ideas in NYC post gives you some tips on planning your next trip. I had a lot of fun putting this post together so let me know if you want more like this! I’m hoping to travel this spring and summer so I’d love to put more of these together if you liked it.

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