Features – Iced Tea and Top Knots

The Summer Edit with Wayfair

Published on July 22, 2021 by icedteaandtopknotsLeave a comment

Image Credit: Wayfair

I’m teaming up with Wayfair to bring you The Summer Edit, including a Q & A with me, home design inspiration and advice, and my product picks for the season. Home design is one of my favorite things to dive into each season and Summer time is definitely one of my favorites.

The Wayfair Summer Edit Q & A with Kerry of Iced Tea & Top Knots

Wayfair: Which area of your home are you most focused on updating or sprucing up for the summer season and why?

Kerry: I am the most focused on fixing up my backyard and making it an oasis because I have a feeling that will be where my family and I spend most of our time on the beautiful summer nights.

Wayfair: Which color palettes are speaking to you this season?

Kerry: I really love neutral colored furniture mixed with colored accents like orange and blue, which ties into my love of sports.

Wayfair: Are there any home design trends that you are really loving right now?

Kerry: I am loving the trend of creating an oasis and place to hang right in your own home.

Wayfair: Which activities are you most looking forward to this summer?

Kerry: I am looking forward to having amazing summer nights in my backyard with my family and friends while watching baseball.

Kerry’s Wayfair Product Picks for Summer

For me when I am shopping for products for summer, I don’t like to change the big pieces out like couches and tables , but I love to change out the accents like rugs, pillows, lights and table decor (table runner, candles, flowers). Pieces I do love to change out that are on the larger side are items like bar carts and outdoor storage like spices up the space I am working on. Here are some of my favorite products picks from the bathroom sanctuary to awesome pieces for the outdoor oasis.

Summer Highlight: Dreamy Vacation-Worthy Bathrooms

Image Credit: Wayfair

For me creating a sanctuary all throughout the home is one of the most important things I need especially in the summer when things seem extra hectic. That dreamy sanctuary for me starts with my bathroom, specifically my bathtub and vanity/sink. The reason for that is they are the spots that bring me the most zen from having a bubble bath with candles to doing my skincare and makeup routines at the vanity/sink area. Yes, I do sometimes sit on the counter with my feet in the sink like when I was a teeanger and it is the best!

Shop clawfoot tubs, bathroom tile, vanities (and double vanities!) and more over at Wayfair!

Summer Highlight: Outdoor Oasis

Image Credit: Wayfair

Five cute outdoor decor ideas for summer that won’t break the bank!

Not everything has to break the bank especially when it comes to redoing your summer outdoor space. How to keep from doing that is changing out your accent pieces or picking out new ones like lights and/or fire pits.

Here are my top 5 items to change out or get new that won’t break the bank:

Change out your outdoor rug for a bright, fun new one
Add outdoor string lights
Incorporate a fire pit table
Get a fun outdoor game set up like cornhole
Be sure to add a great, large umbrella

Back to School Wayfair Dream Classroom Giveaway

Image Credit: Wayfair

As Wayfair Professional recently launched a Dream Classroom Giveaway contest (entries were accepted March 30, 2021 – April 13, 2021) to show appreciation for educators everywhere who have done so much for students during this year of uncertainty. One lucky educator will win a fully furnished, expertly curated classroom their students will be excited to return to. The winner will be announced in August, so stay tuned to see the lucky educator’s dream classroom transformation. Read about last year’s winners and see their exciting new classrooms here.

Check out classroom furniture and equipment from Wayfair:

This year especially I am extra excited to change my decor up with pieces from Wayfair. I am focusing on my indoor and outdoor sanctuaries without breaking the bank. We can do it and feel more at home. Here is to an amazing summer full of sunshine and joy!

One on One with Amber Makupson of Meraki

Published on July 12, 2021 by icedteaandtopknotsLeave a comment

Meraki, a hair care brand, was introduced to me by a friend and colleague. I have officially become obsessed by all their products. I use their products everyday from their Glow Oil to their amazing Conditioner. One of my favorite things about Meraki’s products are that they are infused with crystals, not only does it give my hair and body the best energy but it gives my soul the most fulfilling energy.

I had the chance to interview the founder of Meraki, Amber Makupson. She is a true gem and inspirationg. I am honored to have gotten to interview her for my series on amazing female founders.

Here is a little bit about the amazing founder, Amber:

Meraki was founded in 2018 by Amber Makupson, as a labor of self-love, self-empowerment and dedication to wellness.

A native of Ohio, Amber moved and settled in Atlanta, Georgia at a young age, and started to focus on a healthy, holistic lifestyle and make her own natural remedies during her pregnancy when she developed skin sensitivities.

Her background as a licensed aesthetician specialized in botanical treatments helped when, after suffering a serious chemical burn from an over-the-counter beauty product, Amber was fed up of the toxic ingredients damaging so many other women and decided to create Meraki Organics, a non-toxic vegan haircare brand infused with gemstones to nourish skin, hair, body and soul.

1. Tell me how you got started.

I started Meraki in 2018 after experiencing 2nd degree chemical burns on my face from an over the counter beauty product, I set out to curate my own collection of vegan, non toxic hair care and skin care products. I found great joy and passion in formulating, and learning about different ingredients from around the world and their natural Ayurvedic healing abilities.

2. Where do you want to take your already successful brand? I really want to continue to focus on organic growth within my direct to consumer channel. I also have a few really exciting retail partnerships that are launching this fall. Ultimately I want Merki to become a household name and continue to bring clean, innovative and healing products to the market.

3. What are the top 3 things you have learned over the years building your brand?

I literally learn something new everyday. My top 3 would be.

The importance of building a great team. This is crucial to your success.
Keeping a clear vision and being laser focused on the direction I want to take my brand.
Understanding my customers’ needs and values.

4. How have you had to pivot during this last year?

Yes, one pivotI have taken this year is moving from inhouse manufacturing to contract manufacturing in order to keep up with inventory demand and to focus on growing my brand.

5. What values do you stand for? What values do you want to inspire in others?

“ I believe self love is the key to unlocking your full potential in life. Keeping my faith in God is where I pull my strength and direction from. I trust the timing of my life. I believe that we all have special gifts that unlock our highest, truest selves.”

“The word Meraki means to do something with love, soul, and creativity; To put the essence of yourself in your work! I hope that my brand will inspire others to flourish in this beautiful space.”

6. What is your favorite piece of advice you have gotten?

My favorite piece of advice I have received is never let fear stop you from achieving your goals. Also learning the power of my thoughts and the importance of controlling my thoughts.

7. What are your favorite books and podcasts to go to for inspiration?

A few of my favorite podcasts are How I Built This, Glossy, and Super Soul Sunday. A few of my favorite books are The Alchemist and 7 7 spiritual laws of success.

Be sure to follow along with Amber and Meraki on Instagram at @merakiorganics_Thank you to Amber for coming along on this. journey!

Have a joyful day!

~Iced Tea & Top Knots

Backyard Oasis for the Family- Part 1

Published on June 10, 2021June 14, 2021 by icedteaandtopknotsLeave a comment

*This Post Was Sponsored By Wayfair*

My family has been through a lot the last few years and that doesn’t even include the world’s challenge of Covid. So once 2020 hit, I knew in 2021 I would create a backyard oasis for my family. We are a family that have always loved creating experiences outside whenever we can and when it is cozy well, we tend to utilize it even more.

I had the pleasure of partnering with Wayfair to do that. Getting the backyard oasis pieces put together for my family created just what we needed after a hard few years. We can’t wait to have dinners, chats, family hangs and s’more making nights whenever we can!

Here is part 1 of the Oasis and stay tuned for part 2 very soon.

Before

After

Links To These Amazing Pieces:

4-Piece Sofa and Chair Set

Option 1 (the one I got is sold out)

Option 2 (very similar)

2 Sets of Orange Striped Pillows

Ones I Got

Acadian Outdoor Rug

One I Got

Fun Fact:

I purposely got the orange stripes and blue rug because they are Chicago Bears colors and my family and I are huge fans 🙂

Striped Hammock

One I Got

Fun Fact:

I have always wanted a hammock for us so this was a dream come true!

I wish you all an oasis you can enjoy and remember we can all have one even with the change of pillows )

Have an oasis, joyful filled summer!

~Iced Tea & Top Knots

P.S. What do you feel makes for the best oasis?

Thoughtful Holiday Gift Guide For Those You Love

Published on November 17, 2020 by icedteaandtopknotsLeave a comment

“It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year!”

Tis the season to be jolly and spread joy to your loved ones, safely.

One of my favorite things about the holidays is putting together thoughtful gifts for those I love that remind me of them. Here are some of my all time favorite thoughtful gifts to give right now. Here is to a Happy Holiday season. Sending everyone lots of joy and love!

Vim+Vigor Candle Co.

Holly Berry + Fir Candle & Palo Santo

Just Jess Fashions‘ Bracelets, Drink Toppers and Mask Lanyards

Maraval Made Face Masks

CharleyMadelyn Daily Devotional Book

Olive & June’s Pedi System

Happy Holidays!

~Iced Tea & Top Knots

P.S. What is your favorite thoughtful gift to give?

Tis The Season To Get Festive With Wayfair

Published on November 12, 2020November 12, 2020 by icedteaandtopknotsLeave a comment

*This Post Was Sponsored By Wayfair*

“Christmas isn’t a season. It’s a feeling.”

Every holiday season I try to brighten up the joy in my room since it is where I spend most of my time these days working from home. Joy and Christmas go hand and hand for me. This year the joy is needed that much more so for the first time I decorated for Christmas before Thanksgiving. I am happy to admit I am so glad I did. Thee joy radiates for me each and every day seeing all my Christmas decor throughout my room thanks to Wayfair! I can’t wait to decorate the rest of my house 🙂

Wayfair helped me created a joyful space this Christmas and holiday season. Here is what I came up with and what is helping make me smile each day.

Happy Holidays! Don’t forget to spread the joy for others but also for yourself!

Love Always,

Iced Tea & Top Knots

P.S. What is your favorite holiday decoration?

The Fall Edit With Wayfair

Published on October 16, 2020May 14, 2021 by icedteaandtopknots2 Comments

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me.Fluttering from the autumn tree.” ~ Emily Brontë

I’m teaming up with Wayfair to bring you The Fall Edit, a collection of advice, inspiration, and trends for the upcoming season, starting with a Q & A between Wayfair and I:

Fall Decorating and Renovation Q & A with Iced Tea & Top Knots

Wayfair: Which fall home decor projects do you get most excited about?

Iced Tea & Top Knots: I get most excited about changing up all my pillows, blankets and flowers throughout my home for Fall.

Wayfair: Are there any design trends you are loving right now?

Iced Tea & Top Knots: I am really loving all of these and hope to implement a few where I can this Fall.

Canopy Beds
Non-white Kitchens
Floral Wallpaper
Vintage Accents
High Contrast
Velvet

Wayfair: What are a few ways people can spruce up their homes with fall decor while on a budget?

Iced Tea & Top Knots: Changing up your decor by season is definitely overwhelming sometimes because of the cost. I have found the picking up a couple new pillows, a new blanket and a new vase definitely help change up your room for the fall season while staying on a budget.

Iced Tea & Top Knots: My Wayfair Picks for Fall

Here are some of my Fall favorites:

Iced Tea & Top Knots: Design Project Highlight

At the beginning of this year, I did a revamp of my office and bedroom to start fresh and it definitely has helped me do that. I hope it inspires you to change up a space in your home. Here it is!

Where Design Meets Function: Major Appliances

For those working on home renovations this fall, you know how important it is to find the right appliances to go with your design scheme.

Iced Tea & Top Knots: Advice on Selecting Appliances:

My biggest pieces of advice for choosing appliances is do your research, measure the space you want the appliance to go in and factor in the theme of that specific room.

Wayfair is having a special appliance event from October 5-21. Scout out dream kitchen and laundry room updates including ranges, range hoods, refrigerators, beverage refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, and more.

Wayfair Cozy Fall Category Staff Picks:

Bulletin Boards – For creating mood boards + showing off your kids’ artwork!
Blankets and Throws – Cozy time!
Wine Racks – To hold all of those fall reds!
Oversized Wall Mirrors – Add depth to a room – and check out your WFH outfit game!
Picture Frames – To put your favorite memories and artwork on display!

A Home full of Character: It’s All in the Details

Small home improvement changes can make a big impact. Try character-building home improvement updates like striking chandeliers, vintage-inspired ceiling medallions, upgraded lightswitch plates, ornate vent covers, and wallpaper.

Iced Tea & Top Knots: Chandelier Picks for Different Styles:

Chandeliers are one of my favorite details that help change up a room in a blink of an eye for each season. I love the added personality it gives your room.

These are some of my absolute favorites:

Thinking Ahead: Holiday Decor

While you may be finishing up your indoor or outdoor halloween decorating game, if you’re hosting for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Hanukkah this year, you’ll probably want to start checking all the boxes on your holiday prep checklist before friends and family arrive.

Iced Tea & Top Knots: Tips for On-Point Holiday Decor:

Check Out This Fun Holiday Decorating Piece I Did With Wayfair Last Year

Some holiday decorating categories to check out on Wayfair:

Holiday Gift Ideas:

For the Chef: Toasters, Coffee Makers, and Cookware Sets

For the Entertainer: Holiday Dinnerware Sets

For the Kids: Kids Decor by Disney (and more) Characters

For the Dog Parent: Dog Ramps & Stairs

For the Coffee Lover: Holiday Themed Mug

And for those looking for a bedroom and closet refresh in 2021, check out the selection at Wayfair:

Bedroom: Bed in a bag, Egyptian cotton sheets and pillowcases, mattresses from full size to king size (on sale!), full-length mirrors, and more!

Closet and Storage: Underbed storage bins, clothes racks, walk-in closet systems, closet islands, shoe storage benches, and more!

Thinking Ahead: Outdoor Decor

Outdoor decor has slowly become one of my favorite things about decorating. Here are some of my favorites:

Loungewear That Is Perfect For Relaxing

Published on June 14, 2020 by icedteaandtopknotsLeave a comment

“Sometimes it feels so good to just sit by yourself, relax and not talk to anyone.” ~ Kristen Butler

Loungewear for me is like a comfy hug that comes from clothes. I wanted to share some of my favorite loungewear that I currently own or that are on my wish list that I hope to be able to purchase soon 🙂

Hope these pieces inspire everyone to take time for oneself especially during these times we continued to be in of racial injustice as the global pandemic of COVID-19.

Nude Lounge Set From Golden Girly (can make custom sets)

Greg Sandal From Brother Vellies

Savage X Cotton Jersey Legging in Lemongrass

Ivory Mock Neck Sweater From Oji Royale

Vibrants Vibes Leisure Tee by Zelie for She

Lounge Pants From JCREW Factory (have)

Tie Dye Shorts From Target (have)

Here’s to a great day of relaxation in fun loungewear! My promise to everyone is that going forward I am going to be featuring more diverse brands that include BIPOC owned businesses. I stand with you and I love you!

~Iced Tea & Topknots

P.S. What is your favorite loungewear to relax in?

Some of my favorite black owned fashion businesses can be found here.

*image from Google images

The Summer Edit With Wayfair

Published on June 13, 2020June 13, 2020 by icedteaandtopknots2 Comments

Summer decor is one of my favorite things I look forward to every year. So I am so excited to be teaming up with Wayfair to bring you the Wayfair Summer Edit, a curated guide of design trends and recent happenings at Wayfair to help inspire you to turn your home into the perfect staycation spot – at a time when we need it most!

Design Ideas I am Loving this Season

This season, I am all about bright colors, statement pillows and anything that spruces up my outside and inside spaces for the season of Summer.

Some Top Trending Summer Decor Categories at Wayfair:

My Favorite Product Picks Right Now

Here are a few of my favorite products right now from Wayfair:

1.Broaddus Convertible Chair 2. Bungalow Rose Larbi Cotton Floor Pillow 3. Anacostia Resin Fountain with Light 4. Sirmans Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug

What Else is New at Wayfair?

How is Wayfair Responding to COVID-19?

With the help of incredible customers Wayfair has been able to raise more than $2.3 million for the Feeding America COVID-19 Response Fund. This contribution will go directly to supporting more than 200 food banks, 60,000 meal programs, and millions of Americans during this difficult time.

Read more about Wayfair’s response to COVID-19 here.

To Find Out How Wayfair Responding to Racial InJustice, read more here.

Wayfair x Kelly Clarkson Home

Wayfair recently launched Kelly Clarkson Home, a collection which Kelly curated that reflects her French country style (with a mix of glam and boho as well!).

Thanks to incredible customers, Wayfair and Kelly were able to donate a portion of profits* from Kelly Clarkson Home after its launch to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Relief Fund.

*”Profits” means net revenue minus wholesale, shipping, and other product-related costs, customer service costs, and merchant fees, plus credit card points and rebates.

Kelly’s personal favorites from Kelly Clarkson Home

Favorite Kelly Clarkson Pieces:

Page Standard Bed // Acklen Tufted Round Cocktail Ottoman //

Cheekwood Square Pouf Ottoman // Studio 3-Piece Coffee Table Set

// 3-Piece Bud Terracotta Blue and White Table Vase Set // Melody 4-Light Lantern Rectangle Chandelier

Together, Iced Tea & Top Knots and Wayfair wish you a wonderful and safe summer in a beautiful home that you love.

Small Businesses to Support

Published on April 12, 2020April 14, 2020 by icedteaandtopknotsLeave a comment

“Support the Makers”

We are going through a time of uncertainty personally and in our businesses. I know that we will get through this and we will do that by supporting one another.

A way I wanted to support was to share my favorite and my friends’ small businesses to shop right now online to help keep them going and to help keep supporting their employees.

Here they are, enjoy!

Online

Sarah Liller SF

Sidway Swim

Soul Carrier

The Flourish Market (Thanks to Anna of My Cancer Chic)

Trellis Beauty (Thanks to Anna of My Cancer Chic)

Covet SF

Lirika Matoshi (Thanks to Amanda Montell)

Love Thirteen (Thanks to Ali Levine)

Brittany Fuson

Jax Kelly

Eleventh and Wilder

For the Love of Pixie Dust

Wrigleyville Sports

Nail Polish Strips

Mobaak Aromatherapy Shoppe

Shops That Are Operating online right now (LA & OC Based Stores)

April Blooms Boutique

Polkadots & Moonbeams

Ritz Resale

Local To LA & OC :

Bean Town

Lavender & Honey

Webster’s Pharmacy

Steelhead Coffee, 3350 E Broadway, Long Beach, CA 90803

Top 10 Self Care Gifts For You or Your The Ladies In Your Life

Published on April 3, 2020 by icedteaandtopknotsLeave a comment

“Self Care is a priority and necessity-not a luxury.”

In these uncertain times and us all being at home, Self Care now more than ever is so important. It needs to be made more of a priority that we fit into our day. Self Care will help us get through this all. Here are some of my favorite Self Care gifts to either give to yourself or to girlfriends and family (some of these work for your guy friends too). Stay Tuned for the top 10 Self Care gifts for the guys in your life next week!

Anthropologie Palo Santo and Crystal Bundle , Choices: Positivity, Clarity, Love, Protection

“Palo Santo is traditionally used for relieving common colds, flu symptoms, stress, asthma, headaches, anxiety, depression, inflammation, emotional pain and more. This Essential Oil is great for Aromatherapy and can also be used during massage work to assist in healing.”

I have made this a part of my daily routine for all of these reasons and it has continued to do wonders for me during these unfamiliar times. Both Palo Santo and crystals bring about the best energy into any room.

P.F. Candle Co. Essentials Mini Candle Set

Candles have always been a part of myself self care routine and this line of candles is one of my favorites. Candles lighten the mood and scents bring about the best memories whether it’s just reading or taking a bath while they burn, it is the best.

Olive & June’s The Everything Box

If you love doing your nails while being at home like I do, then definitely check out Olive & June’s The Everything Box and all their amazing products. Their products are 7-Free and that makes me love them even more. Their products are your at home manicures are going to make you smile. An added bonus, their owner Sarah Gibson Tuttle is awesome!

True Glow by Conair Heated Beauty Hand Mitts

This is another gift perfect for yourself or loved ones. I got these for my dad for Christmas and he loves them. They are perfect for just taking time for yourself and putting your favorite lotion or hand oil then put them in and sit for 20 minutes, makes for such a special self care moment. Also be sure to follow the directions for safety 🙂 This is definitely a gift that will put smiles all around and make for a great at home time.

Farmhouse Fresh’s 3 MEGA RADIANCE BOOSTERS IN A Box!

Face Masks are a great way to boost your skin and in turn boost your mood. During this time of unfamiliarity, giving your skin and mood a boost is important so lets mask together 🙂

Star’s Above Cozy Robe

Can never go wrong with a cozy robe whether you use it as a coat while you work or cozying up on the couch while watching your favorite show. When I think self care, a cozy robe is always on that list and makes for the perfect gift for yourself and/or friend.

Little Book of Self-Care

There are moments, especially now, that we know we want to incorporate self care into the day, but feel stuck on how to do that. This book gives you so many options on how to incorporate some self care, which I love and I have definitely given this as a gift before. May have to gift it again soon 🙂

Sephora Mini Hydration Set

Hydration, Hydration, Hydration is always key for your skin. It is a great way to take care of yourself when you incorporate a skincare that works for you. I know finding the right products, gets me excited to take time for my skin, which is great self care.

Cohorts Green Camo Print Long Sleeve Sweatshirt

The uniform for this time is a cute lounge that can also work for virtual dates and happy hours with friends, which is my newest self care must. Being cute and comfy is so fun and this lounge set below is one that is on my wishlist. When feeling cute while being comfy, that lifts your mood and creates a great self care moment.

Sedona Crescent Meditation Cushion

Meditation and breathwork are so important for staying grounded in life especially in uncertain times. We all have a different look on what meditation is whether it is using an app like Calm, painting, organizing or prayer. Whatever your way of mediation is having a meditation pillow that you can dedicate your mediation on and when you sit on it you feel that peace. I plan on gifting this to many, I know will love it.

Here is a great definition of meditation: “Meditation is a practice where an individual uses a technique – such as mindfulness, or focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity – to train attention and awareness, and achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm and stable state.”

Here’s to Self Care!

~Iced Tea and Top Knots

P.S. What is your favorite Self Care item?