Disclosure: This post was sponsored by 1040.com. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the world a better place!

1040.com

I swear this time of year sneaks up on me quicker each time. I've always dreaded doing my taxes because I didn't find it particularly easy, nor did I truly understand how the system worked. Being an entrepreneur and a business owner made the process even more difficult. For the last couple of years, I've used 1040.com, which has made the whole tax season much less stressful and 'ugh'. Not only are those annoying tax days behind me, but I feel great to be a part of something bigger than filing my 1099s. For every tax return filed, $2 will be donated to clean water projects. How great is that?! Before I get into the extra perk about doing your taxes with 1040.com, I thought I'd explain just how simple their process is…

1040.com, headquartered in Franklin, NC, has created professional-grade income tax software since 1977. They develop DIY and professional tax software to simplify filing taxes using your phone or desktop. That's right - you can do your taxes on your smartphone! 

If you head to 1040.com, you can instantly see how easy it is to navigate their website. You can click 'Start for Free' and create your login to have access for later on {my computer has everything saved so each year I come back, I'm ready to be logged in to go - easy peasy}. 

There are three packages 1040.com offers when filing your taxes {psst… it's all very affordable!} :::

1. If you have a simple tax situation - Federal Return: FREE  | State Return: $14.95

2. If it's more complicated {kids, investment, childcare, college} - Federal Return: $29..95 |  State Return: $19.95

3. For business owners & 6 figure+ salary earners - Federal Return: $49.95 | State Return: $24.95

You should have no worries about completing things correctly because an interview will help guide you through the entire process. They ask all the right questions to complete every necessary worksheet. The first time I used 1040.com, I had just filed my W-2s and was instantly hooked on doing my taxes through their platform from there on out. Your refund comes relatively quickly, as well, and can be deposited straight into your bank account. This year, I am going the 1099 route for my business and working with many expenses and new worksheets I haven't used. It has been smooth sailing for me! Seriously recommend this program for independent contractors and business owners!! 

Okay, so my favorite part - the $2 donation to clean water projects :D Overall, 1040.com has donated 5.3 million gallons of water to Healing Waters International, enough water for 29,251 people to have clean water for a whole year!! How amazing is that?! Healing Waters International (HWI) is a non-profit organization making clean, safe water accessible to people worldwide. Learn more about this mission's importance and 1040. com's involvement. 

It's time to stop procrastinating & start your taxes - click here to begin! 

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Urbana Sacs

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Urbana Sacs. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the world a better place!

You may recognize these fabulous paper sacs from last year. I use mine all of the time!! From planters to makeup holders, these sacs are super useful - not to mention adorable, too :D Urbana Sacs also has a large product range of handbags and other practical accessories to add to your sustainable lifestyle {including children's bookbags}! 

So what is the washable paper made from!? It's made from various virgin pulp fiber blends, recycled felt, and manufactured through cultivation rather than deforestation. You can shape them like clay and use them time and time again. Plus, every Urbana Sacs product is sustainably crafted in LA, and the prices are beyond fair, making it tempting to stock up. Make sure you sign up for their newsletter for a 20% off coupon, too. 

I just started teaching myself how to use cinematography, and I am pretty obsessed. Especially when it comes to showing off products, I can't think of any better way to do so than with this art form. So captivating, and watching a hand rearrange the flowers in an {urbana} sac is mesmerizing. Don't you think?! I may make one where I'm washing it, too! 

To shop their entire collection, click here. Stay up-to-date with all the pretty photos {& fun ways to use your sac} on Instagram & remember to show them what's in your sac or bag with #myurbanasacs.

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Atelier Alienor. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the fashion industry a better place!

with Atelier Alienor

I'm unsure if my recent trip to France has made me more obsessed, but Atelier Alienor's French-made espadrilles are seriously the sweetest. It's crazy to think I've never owned a pair of espadrilles before... they are my style and perfect for the Florida climate. Where have I been?! I guess I was waiting for the best... ;) And I'm glad I did!

Why I Love Atelier Alienor

1. The style. As mentioned, you can't go wrong with investing in a beautiful pair of espadrilles. They will stand the test of time and await you after every passing winter. 

2. The colors. The soft pastel palette Atelier Alienor uses is highly feminine and easy to pair with a minimalistic wardrobe. They even have a fun turquoise color for summer, and then the basics like cognac & black {which black are super chic with the sparkly ankle loop!}. 

3. The craftsmanship. Artisans in Aquitaine, South West of France, have been creating espadrilles for generations. Laurie Cazaux, the designer behind Atelier Alienor, teamed up with these talented makers to responsibly manufacture the line. Although based in Houston, Texas, Laurie lived many years in France and truly appreciated French crafts. She beautifully says, "Where I come from, espadrilles are more than shoes. They promise an endless summer, tanned feet, and romantic escapes." - yeah, I'm sold! 

4. The commitment to sustainability. All espadrilles are made in small batches, using eco-friendly methods and materials during production. Their fabrics consist of natural jute & cotton and exquisite leather from a French tannery that uses sustainable practices. 

What I'm Wearing

Khaki Premium & Eco Leather Lace Up Sandals {aka Charlotte}: How can you not fall in love with these beauties at first sight?! The khaki/olive-like color is my new favorite neutral {totally the new black for sandals}. The Charlottes can easily be worn by grabbing coffee with friends and then paired with a semi-formal dress to wear to a wedding. Don't you love when a pair of shoes can do both? Too bad I didn't have anywhere to dress up this summer... I'll have to make an excuse to do so :D 

Where to Purchase

You can find Atelier Alienor's entire collection online  & don't forget to stay up-to-date on Instagram! 

p.s. you can see a few ways I've styled these sandals with my conscious closet here & here.

Featuring Recreation California & BO Carter

My grandfather's house in South Florida has the most fantastic elephant ear plants. I'd love to have a big backyard with these lining the parameter someday. Unfortunately, the last time I visited was around Thanksgiving last year, and many of my little cousins trampled all over these beautiful guys. Fortunately, they returned stronger than ever, and I got to take more photos of them! 

Okay, now on to the outfit.. 

Why I Love Recreation California

First, this line uses three of my favorites in sustainable fabrics: hemp, linen & organic canvas. Second, I've always loved the art behind screen printing, and to think all of these prints were done using that technique is just amazing. There is a lot of work behind that, and the prints are unique. Also - the colors! I'm an earth-tone girl, so naturally, I'm drawn in. 

I'm wearing the Topicialia Halter Top, which is a total knockout. I'm usually not a fan of halter tops on me, but this one has made me change my mind. The cut is extremely flattering, and since I wear high-waisted shorts throughout summer, it's the perfect length. Especially with sun-kissed skin, this top is made for your summer vacation. This same beautiful print also comes in several styles - skirts, pants, dresses & coats! See the entire collection here.  

Why I Love BO Carter

An independent, ethical fashion brand out of the UK, BO Carter is mindfully designing contemporary garments for the conscious woman. Their aesthetic is so clean and practical. Adding one of their pieces to your wardrobe will always stay in style! I wear the Isadora Shorts made from 100% certified organic cross-weave cotton. 

Shop the Entire Look:

Tropicalia Halter Top, Recreation California $115

Isadora Shorts, Bo Carter $144

18k Gold Leaf Bracelet, Simply Nature Bio Goods $279

. Khaki Premium & Eco Leather Lace up Sandals, Atelier Alienor $179

Aspen Ratten Handbag, Purse for the People $150

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Banyan Tree We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the world a better place!

with Banyan Tree

My apartment never feels like home without some aromatherapy. I love breathing in and enjoying the scents of my favorite essential oils. With so much craziness going on when we open our phones {& having a job that requires you to be on the phone all the time}, it's nice to sit back, unplug and take in relaxing oil blends. After all, aromatherapy is the balance & harmony of body and mind. I always speak about how important it is to give yourself a break and think about your wellness {I do this a lot to get myself into the habit!}. Spa-remedy lines, like Banyan Tree, are perfect for your recharge moments in the day. 

Why I Love Banyan Tree

The Scents: Coined as 'A Sanctuary of the Senses,' it's truly an experience taking in their botanical blends. Blending essential oils to create my very own scent has been so enjoyable for me. Having control over what you smell makes the experience more enjoyable and inspires you to take more time to focus on your well-being.

The Traditions: To think of the people and the culture behind each scent gives you a better connection to the product & its benefits {not only for you but the trade communities, too}. Banyan Tree creates economic opportunities for many artisan communities around the globe. In their Pride of Craft book, you can learn more about the makers behind these beautiful products.

The Commitment to the Planet & our Health: Besides responsibly sourcing all of their materials, each product is free of parabens and cruelty-free. 

The Experiential Essential Oil Sets: You get to play around to find your favorite scent. I love combining lavender and bergamot in my bedroom when relaxing at the end of the day and then orange, grapefruit, and rosemary in my living room for a super fruity scent to keep my senses going during the day. Sometimes a stone full of lavender beside my bed is exactly what I need for a good night's rest! Each kit comes with suggested blends, but if you are keener on a particular oil, go heavier! 

What I'm Using

Bliss Experiential Essential Oil Set: Lavender, Orange, Bergamot, Cedarwood - for total relaxation. These oils inspire feelings of calm and comfort. 

Rise Experiential Essential Oil Set: Lavender, Orange, Grapefruit, Rosemary - for joy and clarity throughout the day. These oils are great for a quick refresh because they uplift your senses immediately. 

Soul Experiential Essential Oil Set: Cedarwood, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Rosewood - for intimacy and delight. These oils create a lovely atmosphere for romance. 

Glass Stones: Made entirely from recycled glass, these stones are unique. They are incredibly light weight & absorbent, so they work great as aroma diffusers and moisture retention for plants. 

Where to Purchase

You can find all Banyan Tree natural spa-inspired bath and beauty products online - here -