5 Refreshing Date Ideas for a Post-COVID Summer

With COVID-19 vaccinations now rolling out at a fairly rapid pace, just about everyone is counting down the days when everything returns back to “normal.” We’ll still need to take precautions for the foreseeable future of course, and it will take time for enough Americans to be vaccinated for normal to truly be within reach. But recent updates from the government provide reason for optimism. As was summed up at The Hill recently, there’s been a new call for all adults to be eligible for the vaccine no later than May 1 — and there’s a stated goal for a “more normal” Fourth of July.

This is wonderful news! It means many important things for countless people: safety for the vulnerable, some measure of relief for healthcare workers, the chance for grandparents to hug their grandchildren, and so on. On a lighter note though — but still an important one — a “more normal” summer will also mean a return to dating.

Clearly, there have been much more serious consequences of COVID-19 than the loss of in-person dating. But a year of Zoom socialization takes a toll, and particularly among younger generations, many are excited to get back out into the world and meet new people in person. So, in anticipation of a happier summer, I came up with a few refreshing date ideas for our post-pandemic days.

1. Coffee

Coffee is always the best suggestion, isn’t it? It’s something that was brought up her in a piece on how women can support each other not so long ago, and it’s one of the first things a lot of us will be looking to do with friends or family once it’s deemed safe. But it also makes for a lovely first date! If there’s someone you’ve been talking to remotely during the pandemic, or even if you set out to meet someone immediately upon the dawning of the “new normal,” coffee will be a convenient, casual way to finally do something in person. It’s a simple date, but particularly after such prolonged isolation, “simple” might be the best way for some of us to ease back into the dating pool.

2. A Bit of Live Music

Maybe it’s just me, but live music is one of those things I just can’t wait to get back into the world for. I’m already eyeing a few tentatively scheduled shows for late summer and early fall! So as far as I’m concerned, this is another terrific date idea. Hanging out with someone new and enjoying a totally normal live entertainment experience at the same time sounds like heaven after a year in lockdown. Throw in a drink or two and a big picnic blanket for the lawn seats, and it’ll be hard to have a bad date.

3. A Picnic

Speaking of picnic blankets, you can also simply go for a picnic. I have to admit this isn’t an idea I’d ordinarily have thought of, but a Gala Bingo piece on fun, budget-friendly dates made the idea seem simply irresistible, and I have to say I’m now on board. That piece referenced the peace and quiet of the outdoors, a date without loud music to shout over, ice-cold drinks, and even the option of splurging a bit on the food. This took me right to daydreams of a sunny day, a small cooler full of drinks, and a basket full of bread, cheese, and meats. Oh, and some nice fresh company of course.

4. A Date at Home

I don’t have a specific source for this idea, nor do I have any elaborate suggestions beyond putting on some music and finding some intriguing delivery food so that no one has to cook. But in a way, a date at home sounds just about perfect. Are we all dying to get out of our homes? Absolutely. But I for one miss having people over also, and inviting a date for a few hours sounds incredibly refreshing. This requires a bit more trust than some other options, and it is of course important to be safe with a first date. Given that caveat though, this is an option I’m certainly keeping in mind.

5. A Real, Live Restaurant

Maybe it’s not the most original idea, but to round out this list let me just ask: How nice does a sit-down restaurant sound after a year? It may look and feel a bit different; Fast Company did a very interesting article on how restaurants might change after the pandemic and mentioned everything from distanced tables to better prices. But the fundamental experience of sitting at a table with a new date, ordering food, and enjoying good service is the sort of thing many of us have been fantasizing about all pandemic long. I know I’ll have a reservation as soon as I feel safe doing it — with or without a date!

from Garnerstyle https://ift.tt/30M3V9y

GarnerSTYLED: Danielle

Get GarnerSTYLED updates, how to get chose and updates SIGN UP HERE.

April's Look

For my look details scroll down.

My Look

from Garnerstyle https://ift.tt/2PxP68f

GarnerSTYLED: Erin

I’m rolling out a passion project that I’ve wanted to do for my audience. We will call it #GarnerSTYLED — I took four women of various sizes and body types and styled them.  Erin is the first to be featured. I loved her willingness and positivity in doing something she’s never done before in terms of letting me dress her and being in a IG reel. I hope I did her justice. This is my first stab at such a project and I’m excited to build on it.  All ladies involved got to keep their clothes and shoes (generously gifted by @naturalizer).  Reel format is on my Instagram.

Erin’s Look

Erin’s shoes: Naturalizer

Erin’s dress:  Shopgarnerstyle

My Look

Shoes Fashiontofigure

Gold frames/Dress: Shopgarnerstyle

Want to be considered for the Garnerstyled series — Text JOIN to 1 (844) 936-1908 receive updates on our next call and much more — You can also click link for signup form. 

 

from Garnerstyle https://ift.tt/2ZPRHMD

The Impact of Wonder Woman on Body Positivity

Garnerstyle x FTF - Plus Size Ski Wear for Curvy Bunny

10 Powerful Ways Women Can Support Other Women

Photo Credit: Matt Sales

When was the last time you remember empowering another woman? Even if you struggle to come up with an instance, chances are you do it a lot more than you think! The act of empowering women may sound like it takes a lot of work, dedication, and energy, but it’s actually quite simple to empower your fellow sisters every single day—and we hope to show you just how! You can easily weave these tiny practices into your day to uplift the women around you. While many women compete with each other, we truly are better when we work together. Whether empowering other women comes easy or hard, hopefully, these techniques will show you how you can infuse empowerment into your day-to-day. 

Give a Compliment 

There are so many ways to support the women around you. A simple way to empower someone is with a compliment. Can you think of a time when another woman complimented you on your hair, cute plus-size clothes, or on a project you did at work? How did that make you feel? We bet you were on cloud nine for the rest of the day. Something as simple and easy as a compliment really stands to make a huge impact on someone, and you’ll also feel great making someone else feel good. 

If you’re looking for an interesting experiment, try giving people compliments more often and notice how you feel throughout the day and how many smiles you put on someone’s face. 

Show Digital Love 

Whether you’re an influencer or your social media profile just for fun, women can uplift and support each other by sharing them with their digital audience! If you're really loving a woman-owned business or you admire an influencer who is part of the body positivity movement, you can easily share their content or post a sweet little love note on your page to show them that you support them! While this post may seem effortless and easy, it has the potential to really help small creators and businesses you love. 

Speak Up

Have you ever been in a situation where you needed another woman to speak on your behalf or amplify your voice? Women can easily step in to amplify another woman’s voice—especially in the workplace. If you notice a fellow co-worker has great ideas but never gets the opportunity to put them in front of management or speak up during a work meeting, you could always back her or ask for her opinion during a meeting. Putting your confidence in another woman can really make them feel confident and worthy, especially in the workplace. 

Coffee on Me

Want to show your bestie or boss that you're thinking about them? Treat them to a cup of coffee or Venmo them for Margarita Mondays. Something as simple as a gesture like this can let your friends know that you support and care about them.

Get to Know the Women in Congress 

Learning about the women in congress who are constantly fighting for women’s rights on the front lines is incredibly empowering not only for you but everyone around you. Whether you follow them on social media or donate to their campaign, familiarizing yourself with their causes supports them directly. By getting to know the issues they fight for, you can determine additional ways to step up and empower women in your community. 

Volunteer at a Women’s Shelter 

If you like to give back and support women in need, you can always volunteer your time at a women’s shelter. If you can’t find a women’s shelter near you that is accepting volunteers, you can always assemble small baggies filled with important feminine items like wet cloths, tampons and pads, Tylenol, and bottles of water and distribute these to homeless women in your area.

Join a Women’s Leadership Network

If you work in an industry that is mostly male-dominated, you can either join or start a women’s leadership network to help propel the careers of women around you. Women’s leadership networks are critical in bringing women together and making a difference in particular industries. If your industry doesn’t have a network like this, try to create one! What better way to support women in your field than to let them know that they always have a place to come and feel supported?

Girl Group Texts 

If you are a really thoughtful friend, you may want to start a girl gang group text! Assemble a group of women you love to keep in contact with and send them a note weekly or daily to start their morning off right. You can include inspirational quotes or graphics that inspire everyone to live their best lives. This text is sure to put a smile on your friends’ faces. 

Shop Women-Owned Businesses 

What are some places you frequently shop at? Do you know if those companies are run by men or women? Only 40% of businesses are woman-owned, which means we probably get our products from companies that don’t employ women at higher levels. But there are other alternatives! Empowering female entrepreneurs elevates the entire community and also ensures that women have products that are a better fit for them. Next time you shop at a big-box retailer for plus-size party dresses, see if you can find women-owned boutiques instead! 

Donate 

If you have extra funds to put toward a great cause, research charities or initiatives that back women and help propel them with a donation! For example, Girls Who Code helps empower young women who want to get into male-dominated fields like coding and programming.

There are so many ways you can uplift the women around you! So, whether you’re a pro at supporting your sisters or you’re just getting started, start off your day by paying someone a compliment!

from Garnerstyle https://ift.tt/3nbL6X0

Why Walmart Express Delivery Is Perfect For Busy And Forgetful Women(Like Me)

 

All pandemic aside, 2020 has been a very productive year for your girl. While working from home has been a shock to the system for many of you, it's more of a been there done that type situation in my household. Although I have the pleasure of traveling to work with and for different brands, I have been working from home for many years and so has my husband. So yeah, being homebound has not been that much of a hardship in my household. 

Now what does have me shook is just how busy I have been lately. Between managing a household with a husband and two fur babies, auntie duties, curating content, and running a business, time seems to fly. Honestly, some days I work through lunch before I realize that it is time to start preparing dinner. Then the issue becomes what to cook and what is or isn't in the refrigerator which leads to a store run more times than not.

Thankfully, Walmart has taken a lot of the hassle out of my day and eliminated some of the worrying associated with shopping due to COVID-19 by offering Express delivery. Express delivery is a no-contact option to allow customers to get the items they need without coming into the store or leaving home for pick-up. Oh and, is you are busy (like me) Express delivery allows you time to finish your work while waiting on your items to be delivered. 

 

View this post on Instagram

#ad I think I’m being cheated out of a few of my 24 hours. Between curating content and shipping packages, I find myself losing track of time quite often; thankfully @Walmart offers Express delivery. Tonight is a lazy night, we’re having deli sliced roast beef sandwiches and kettle chips. What’s for dinner. http://liketk.it/2VrrU @liketoknow.it #liketkit

A post shared by Chastity Garner Valentine (@garnerstyle) on Aug 28, 2020 at 3:15pm PDT

Personally, I have only used Walmart's Express delivery for groceries but this service offers so much more. Electronics, toys, and many other essential items are also available for Express delivery. There is a surplus $10 over Walmart’s typical delivery fees of $7.95 or $9.95, depending on the time of day. However, that is a small price to pay considering that "Rona" is outside and I am extra busy. Oh, and did I mention my grocery was delivered to my door within two hours? 

Whether it’s “oh no, my child has a fever!”,  “oh no, I forgot the birthday candles", or "Chastity, whats from dinner!” time matters and Walmart has us covered. Simply open the Walmart app, select delivery, get your shop on, and wait for a knock at the door. 

from Garnerstyle https://ift.tt/3gKf0NU

5 Reasons Why I Love Jumping Rope

While sheltering in place trying to avoid "The Rona", I have managed to partake in more eating of the household snacks than usual. I mean, what else is there to do besides curl up with a good book and a snack, cruise social media and snack or Netflix and chill with my husband (which also requires a snack).

You would think that as a seasoned entrepreneur, I would be accustomed to being home and while I am, being quarantined just hit differently. 

Most of you know that I have worked hard to get healthier and to build my ailing knee back to at least partial functionality. I have had to receive therapy for many years, you have watched my trainer kick my butt (I hate him), and I have shared many of my workouts; on my journey to healing. This is the reason why I cannot allow the quarantine 15 to sneak up on me. Also, with the economy being the way it is, I can't afford to buy new clothes. 

Due to the quarantine, I have been unable to meet with my trainer and physical therapist plus, the gym is closed which really had me off track. However, I knew that I couldn't keep baking bread and cakes without adding some movement to my day, so I grabbed my jump rope.

View this post on Instagram

Most of completed the jumprope challenge already but that doesn't mean you have to stop jumping. I've also loved hearing the stories of you guys jumping easier and faster after getting used to jumping. Same for me!!!!! We are doing the water challenge next. We all bout to be out here glowing.

A post shared by Chastity Garner Valentine (@garnerstyle) on Apr 28, 2020 at 5:04pm PDT

When I started the jump rope challenge a few months ago, many of you jumped right in (pun intended). And then there were those of you who questioned what a childhood pastime like jumping rope had to offer a grown woman, like me. Well, today I am sharing 5 benefits of jumping rope. 

Alexa, play Cris Cross; Jump! 

1. Coordination

The steady cadence and rhythm of jumping rope can help improve the coordination between your eyes, feet, and hands.

2. Burns Major Calories

Compared to jogging for 30 minutes, jumping rope actually burns more calories. According to Science Daily, "Ten minutes of jumping rope can roughly be considered the equivalent of running an eight-minute mile.”

3. Improves Cardiovascular Health

According to the American College of Sports Medicine, jumping rope is highly recommended for aerobic conditioning. In order to increase your heart and lung health, you must do it three to five times per week for 12 to 20 minutes at a time.

4. Improves Bone Density  

"Jumping is great if your bones are strong enough, to begin with,” Dr. Barry says. “You probably don’t need to do a lot either.” (If you have any history of fractures or a family history of osteoporosis, check with a physician before jumping.)

5. Improves Breathing 

In addition to improved heart health and stamina, jumping rope also improves how efficiently you breathe. This becomes very beneficial when doing other activities because you won’t be as out of breath after running down the court or swimming laps in the pool.

So yeah, grab a jump rope and get to work, it is also cheaper than a gym membership and it stimulates your brain plus it will help keep the quarantine 15 away. 

Oh, you don't have a jump rope? Well, here you so sis! Also, I like to jump rope while wearing my Garnerbody waist trainer and arm snatchers. 

from Garnerstyle https://ift.tt/2YXN81U

#PullUpOrShutUp: Plus Size Brands That Are Supporting Black Lives Matter

In every community and every movement, allies are extremely important. Both the Civil Rights and Black Lives Matter Movements are for and by Black people, but the support of other races helps energize the movements also. Normally most brands make an effort to remain neutral claiming that they don't want to “get political", but with the stakes being so high, Black people and their supporters are demanding that brands pull up or shut up. 

ShopGarnerstyle

Protests sparked by the recent murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and Auhmad Arbery paired with decades of murdered Black people; and over 400 years of abuse, oppression, and hardship has force brands to be more vocal. This round of the movement is being both televised and socialized with black people and non-black supports demanding brands to choose a side. Although the responses vary, many major companies have unapologetically declared their solidarity in support of our fight for justice and some have pledged funds. Here are a few of them.

1. Nike

View this post on Instagram

Let’s all be part of the change. ⠀ ⠀ #UntilWeAllWin

A post shared by Nike (@nike) on May 29, 2020 at 3:50pm PDT

2.  Target 

View this post on Instagram

Today is about coming together to honor George Floyd’s life and family. Tomorrow is about sharing the actions we’re taking to partner with Black communities on resources needed to heal, build, and grow. We believe Black lives matter.

A post shared by Target (@target) on Jun 4, 2020 at 8:49am PDT

3. Torrid 

View this post on Instagram

We are angry, we are saddened, we are distraught and our hearts break for the injustices against the Black community. Black Lives Matter. We at TORRID pledge donations to the @NAACP, @ACLU_nationwide and @Blklivesmatter We are with you and we will fight for you, always. As Angela Davis said, "It is not enough to be non-racist, we must be anti-racist."

A post shared by Torrid (@torrid) on May 31, 2020 at 1:17pm PDT

4. JCPenney 

View this post on Instagram

Together, with our customers and associates, we're united against racism.

A post shared by JCPenney (@jcpenney) on Jun 3, 2020 at 10:22am PDT

5. ASOS 

View this post on Instagram

Silence isn’t an option. We share the sorrow and outrage of the world over the grave injustice leading to the tragic loss of George Floyd's life, along with Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Tony McDade and so many other Black lives. We may be a brand, but we’re also made up of real people who care deeply about standing alongside ALL our ASOSers. That means we also understand just how important it is to put meaningful action behind all that we do. So, we will be making a donation to a relevant organization in the coming days. We’re constantly working on ways to support positive change and we’ll continue to give a voice to important conversations, today and always. We hear you and we stand with you.

A post shared by MORE THAN FASHION (@asos) on May 30, 2020 at 1:51pm PDT

6. Nordstrom 

View this post on Instagram

This is a painful time for our country and for us. The events going on around all of us are heartbreaking and we want to share a few thoughts with you in this open letter to our employees. Pete & Erik Nordstrom #BlackLivesMatter #NspireChange

A post shared by Nordstrom (@nordstrom) on May 30, 2020 at 6:58pm PDT

7. Macy's 

View this post on Instagram

What is going on in our nation is heartbreaking. The deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor illustrate with painful clarity the need for fundamental change. This senseless loss of life must stop. As a country, we can and should do better to ensure that all Americans are treated equally and fairly. – Jeff Gennette, Chairman & CEO, Macy’s, Inc. #BlackLivesMatter

A post shared by Macy's (@macys) on May 31, 2020 at 5:58pm PDT

8. Fashion To Figure 

View this post on Instagram

BLACK LIVES MATTER #justiceforgeorgefloyd

A post shared by Fashion to Figure (@fashiontofigure) on May 29, 2020 at 3:26pm PDT

9. Co-Edition  

View this post on Instagram

We’re speaking up, and our statement is simple: Black lives matter. We want our community to know that we share the outrage and sorrow over the injustice of the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery and so many others. As a company centered on inclusivity, we are wholly dedicated towards meaningful action and positive change. We vow to stay engaged with the current events and fight against racial injustice beyond this moment as we work towards greater community and allyship. We hope to provide a platform for our community to feel seen, heard and supported. We are always open to dialogue and conversations on how we can support positive change. Our DMs are always open. #blacklivesmatter

A post shared by CoEdition (@shopcoedition) on May 31, 2020 at 5:23pm PDT

10. Dia & Co 

View this post on Instagram

If you’re hurting right now, we stand with you in your pain. We stand in solidarity with everyone in our community fighting peacefully for equality, justice and change. This is a responsibility we all share. This cannot continue. We are horrified and outraged by the death of George Floyd and the continual racial injustice in our country that has taken so many Black lives before him. It is time to self-examine. It is time to take action and support constructive, demonstrable change. It is on all of us to not let this painful moment pass in vain. We will be working with leaders in our community to determine the most impactful actions Dia can take and we’d love to hear from you as well. Black Lives Matter. Love, Nadia, CEO and Co-Founder Art via @ohhappydani

A post shared by Dia&Co (@diaandco) on May 31, 2020 at 3:32pm PDT

11. PrettyLittleThing 

View this post on Instagram

We will do better At PrettyLittleThing we are proud of our diversity and we acknowledge that we have embraced the Black culture across all aspects of our brand, however we admit we can and will do better and we commit to reviewing what we do . To help us make the right moves, we will create a diversity board, made up of the people across our brands who are closest to the issues, to review our business and create a plan for change. Our silence is not us not acknowledging what is going on, it is us taking the time to get it right.

A post shared by FASHION • BEAUTY • LIFESTYLE (@prettylittlething) on Jun 6, 2020 at 6:30am PDT

Yes, this is a short list but this should occupy you for a while because we all know, "women be shopping" or at least that's what Dave Chappelle said.

Also, pay attention to the brands that are being silent or making vague statements that will appease you. They don't really care about you as much as they do your money. 

from Garnerstyle https://ift.tt/2YnrJ1H