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A Relaxing Getaway to Carolina Beach

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There’s something about the salty air and the sound of waves that instantly puts your mind at ease. My recent trip to Carolina Beach was exactly the kind of escape I needed—laid-back, scenic, and full of great food and memorable experiences.

One of my favorite parts of the trip was walking the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The ocean breeze, the vibrant energy, and the views of the Atlantic made every step worth it. It’s a classic beach town vibe—colorful shops, local stands, and that unmistakable feeling of summer fun, even if it’s not summer. It felt like time slowed down just enough to really enjoy it.

I made it a mission to try out some of the local restaurants, and they did not disappoint. Whether it was fresh seafood or comfort-style coastal cooking, every bite was better than the last. There’s something special about eating food that’s made with local flair and a lot of heart. The variety and quality of dishes at the beach left me seriously impressed—and full.

What’s a beach trip without a little shopping? Carolina Beach has some fun and unique local shops. From souvenirs to beachwear and handmade crafts, I found a few treasures to take home—and let’s be honest, a few things I didn’t know I needed until I saw them!

A highlight of the trip was heading over to downtown Wilmington. The historic charm, cobblestone streets, and riverfront views made for a perfect day outing. I had a fantastic dinner at Floriana’s, where the atmosphere was cozy, and the meal was absolutely delicious. It was the kind of dinner that sticks with you—not just for the food, but for the whole experience.

More than anything, this trip was about relaxing. Whether I was sitting by the beach, sipping a drink, or just soaking in the coastal atmosphere, I felt a sense of calm I hadn’t experienced in a while. Carolina Beach gave me space to slow down, breathe deeply, and just enjoy the moment.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, amazing food, or just a break from the everyday, Carolina Beach is a destination that delivers. I’ll definitely be back.

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My proposal story

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Three years ago, we met at Culinary school, at a Lunar New Year dance, just two students who spotted each other across the room. From an online friendship to countless memories made as we’ve grown together in love, anchored in Christ, and guided by his grace… he proposed in the Rose Garden at a beautiful botanical garden , surrounded by my favorite flowers.

Michael and I are so grateful the Lord has brought us to this new chapter, and we look forward to sharing parts of the journey with you here on the blog. Thank you for walking alongside us—your kindness, encouragement, and prayers mean so much.

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Coffee corner

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Hi friends! It’s been a while since our last coffee corner, so we wanted to share a few updates🤍

One last visit to Lake Ontario with my dad & M!

#1 Hope moved!

In 2021, I moved to upstate New York for college. After graduating in 2023, I stayed nearby and began working as an assistant pastry chef at a resort. While I truly enjoyed my job, I found myself missing my family and the Maryland area more and more. So when the opportunity came to move back, I didn’t hesitate— I packed up and came home! I’m so glad to be home in time for summer.☀️

Even though I’m overjoyed to be home again, this season has brought its share of unknowns and anxious moments. Still, I’m holding onto the truth that God’s mercies are new every morning. Trials may stretch us, but they also strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Jesus.

7] casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. [8] Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. [9] Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. [10] And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 1 Peter 5:7-10

#2 Mother’s Day Celebrations

Hope made it home just in time for Mother’s Day!

We spent the day celebrating our amazing mom—getting our nails done, shopping, soaking in the beautiful weather, and ending the day with dinner at her favorite restaurant followed by ice cream. Our mother is such an inspiration to us. She’s truly a woman after God’s own heart—constantly encouraging us in our faith, covering us in prayer, and loving us with such grace and strength. We’re so thankful for her!

Our little blog is officially 6 months old!

Creating this space has been such a joyful outlet—sharing the gospel, favorite recipes, outfit inspiration, and life updates has truly been a blessing. We’re so excited to keep growing, encouraging others in their faith, sharing even more recipes, and bringing fresh content your way. The best is yet to come!

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Moriah’s bridal shower + advice

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I can hardly believe Moriah’s butterfly tea party bridal shower was one year ago! In honor of that and of the upcoming wedding season, I wanted to share the beautiful photos of her shower and give advice to anyone throwing one soon!

#1 My first tip after picking your theme/colors is to really lean into the theme – I bought and borrowed teapots/cups, butterfly confetti, garlands edible butterfly stickers, butterfly sugar cubes, etc! I also embraced a floral theme with dried flowers for table scatter and fresh flowers in teapot vases at each table. All the decorations filled the space beautifully, and everyone complimented them. I found most of the decorations on Amazon and Etsy.

#2 Have a signature drink! This is an easy way to individualize the shower, For Moriah’s – she made one of her favorite mocktails: a drink with raspberry simple syrup, lime juice, and sparkling water, we served them with cute pearl picks and a cherry.

#3 Favors. For the favors, we had homemade macarons with raspberry jam with a special label, and for the favor bags, we included herbal teas, a pink heart sugar cookie, pink heart glitter bath bomb, and a rose shaped soap.

#4 Have a cute themed backdrop

#5 Set up as early as possible

One thing we would change about the shower was the set up, because of where we were throwing it – we couldn’t set up until about 2 hours before the shower, of course we were running late that day, so we were setting up when the first guests were arriving, it was a stressful hour or so, but it worked out in the end.

#6 Get as many people to help as you can

Lucky for me, we had lots of help from our family with the shower: Our stepmom planned most of the food, and she, Moriah, and I cooked. I made the desserts, our Dad made the coffee and washed the teapots, and everyone helped decorate.

#7 Games. I found games for the shower on Pinterest and our mom bought prizes to give to the winners, This is a great way to break the ice and focus on the Bride.

#8 Buy extra! I highly recommend buying extra plates, utensils, and napkins!

#9 Online invites, We used Paperless post to create and send the invitations and it truly made it easy! instead of asking for addresses, I simply just need a phone number or email to. send them an invitation.

Bridal shower menu ideas: For Moriah’s shower, we had Charcuterie (made by her), a shrimp cocktail, deviled eggs, a vegetable tray, fruit kebabs, meatball cups, pasta salad, and assorted sandwich squares. For drinks, we had coffee, water, lemonade, Moriah’s mocktail, and, of course, tea!

Planning Moriah’s bridal shower was a sweet labor of love- a day I will always treasure. Watching her be celebrated by family and friends filled my heart with gratitude! I hope this post gives you inspiration if you’re planning a shower for someone close to your heart.

Love,

Hope & Moriah