Hi friends!

Well. That was a month! Here’s everything I’ve actually been reaching for.

READ

After the wedding we went to the Hamptons for a week and I barely left the house. We sat on the beach and read, walked to the farm stand, brought home whatever looked good and made dinner at home. That was the whole itinerary. It was heavenly.

I finally got through a few books that have been sitting on my list.

Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden

I’ll be honest, reading this one right after hosting a wedding was uncomfortable. It’s her account of her husband leaving after two decades, and it’s raw. But what kept me turning pages wasn’t the heartbreak. It was watching her metamorphosis. Her ability to reclaim herself, piece by piece, and come out the other side with her own voice. That part I found genuinely incredible.

Shop the Book

The Goddess of Warsaw by Lisa Barr

Historical fiction is my favorite genre, full stop. This one is a historical thriller that combines old Hollywood, Nazi Germany, and strong, proud Jews, and I read it in about two days. Totally captivated.

Shop the Book

Dolly All the Time by Annabel Monaghan

And then I needed something that would let my brain rest, which is exactly what this one is. It’s a GMA Book Club pick set in a little seaside town in Rhode Island, and it follows a single mom in her late thirties who moves home for the summer to save the family house and ends up in a fake dating arrangement with the local rich guy. Charming, funny, and much more emotional than I expected going in. The perfect beach chair book.

Shop the Book

WEAR

The Zara Linen Maxi Dress

I found this one while I was in NYC and it has been the easiest thing in my suitcase and my closet. Easy, breezy, and it runs true to size or maybe a touch large. Right now it’s a sandal dress. In a few weeks it’s a denim jacket and boots dress. That’s the whole reason I bought it.

Shop the Dress

USE

Olas Toothpaste and Mouthwash (gifted)

I’ve been trying to be more mindful about what I use for oral care, the same way I got mindful about makeup and skincare years ago. The frustrating part is that a lot of the clean options just don’t seem to work. I like that very minty, whole-mouth feeling that Listerine gives you, and most natural formulas never get there.

This one does. It’s dentist-formulated with a patented Marine Bio-Active Complex, and it’s alcohol-free, fluoride-free, SLS-free, cruelty-free, and vegan-friendly. It helps support healthy teeth and gums, fights plaque, and freshens breath naturally.

But here’s the detail that made me want to try it: the founder is a dentist, and he worked with Jean-Georges Vongerichten (yes, the Michelin-starred chef) on the flavor profile. Which is such an over-the-top thing to do for toothpaste that I had to see for myself. It’s top notch.

Shop Olas Toothpaste

Shop Olas Mouthwash

COOK

Einat's Roasted Squash

Years ago our neighbors had us for Shabbat and she made this delicious roasted squash. I’ve made it many times over the years, though not in the last few. Rosh Hashanah is in a couple of weeks and we’re hosting a vegetarian this year, so I want to make sure there are filling and delicious options on the table. Thus, the squash is entering the rotation again.

Get the Full Recipe

Those are a few things bringing me joy this month! What’s on YOUR hot list? I always love hearing what you’re into.

xx, Hallie

Hi friends!

Four things I’ve been genuinely excited about this month. One of them is a potato.

Haus Labs Foundation & Concealer

The makeup line I did not see coming

Yes, it’s possible. I’m late to the game here, but Lady Gaga has a makeup brand, and I’ve been using it for the past month. It is flipping fabulous.

Both the foundation and the concealer give you that skin perfect look while still looking like your actual skin. Dewy glow, so good. The blush has exactly the right amount of coverage and shimmer, and the lip gloss is just perfect. I’ve been using their makeup brushes too, which makes the whole thing better. I also used the color matching service on their website and the shades are spot on.

Really, it’s just that good.

Shop the foundation

Shop the concealer

Inez Block Heel

The wedding shoe search is over

I’ve been hunting for a shoe to wear to my son’s wedding in August. My requirements: comfortable, because I will be on my feet all day and all night. Good looking, obviously. And as much height as I can get, because my future daughter-in-law’s family is very, very tall and I look like a munchkin in family photos.

I’ve been a fan of Inez for years. They really are the most comfortable heels on the market, at least for my feet, and this platform pair is no exception. Every single time I put them on I’m surprised all over again by how comfortable they are for how tall they are. I’m getting ready to dance the night away!

Shop the heel

Veronica Beard Dress

The dress that walks the line

I had to include this dress because it threads the needle so perfectly. I feel amazing in it. I feel sexy in it. But not inappropriately sexy, if you know what I mean.

I rarely wear a cutout, or a crop top, or even a bikini. But there’s something about the way this cutout is placed that hits in exactly the right spot.

Sizing note: the line runs a little small, and I always size up in their dresses, pants, and jackets.

Shop the dress

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

And now, for the potato

I promised you a potato. These are the ones I make when I want something that feels a little special without any fuss: crispy outside, creamy middle, and mostly made the day before. The chill step is the whole trick, and it’s why they turn out better than the version you throw together at the last minute.

The same rule applies to a dinner party and a wardrobe. The things that look effortless are usually the ones you prepped the day before.

Get the full recipe here

Those are a few things bringing me joy this month! What’s on YOUR hot list? I always love hearing what you’re into.

xx, Hallie

Hi friends!

It's finally sandal-and-sunscreen season, and I've got the goods to prove it. Here's everything I've been loving this month!

The Maycie Strappy Sandal from Madewell

I picked these up a few weeks ago and have honestly not taken them off. They’re so comfortable, they go with almost everything, and I love the little one-inch heel. Bonus: they’re on sale right now for $79!

Shop the Sandals

My Go-To Sunscreen Combo

Face sunscreen is a non-negotiable for me. Here's my go-to combo:

Naked Sundays Cabana Clear. It’s lightweight, gives a gorgeous glow, and has never once caused a breakout.

Shop Naked Sundays Cabana Clear

Ciele Skin Tint (which also has SPF). I’m so happy with how it looks that I’ve been skipping other makeup altogether. I wear the medium shade.

Shop Ciele Skin Tint

For body, Supergoop is my ride-or-die. I love both the oil and the spray, and the new coconut scent is heavenly (it kind of reminds me of Bain de Soleil, iykyk).

Shop the Supergoop Mist

The Cylinder Cord Necklace

I’m wearing this corded necklace on repeat. I love finding casual, everyday pieces that still have a little punch to them. It doesn't show up much in my OOTDs, but in person I get so many compliments and questions about it, so I had a feeling you guys would want the link too.

Shop the Necklace

How to Be the Perfect Mother-in-Law by Lesley Koeppel

A dear friend gave me this one. She has three girls, and one just got married, so she knew exactly what she was doing handing it my way! It’s a lighthearted guide for moms of married sons, and I just started it. Quick, fun read with lots of genuinely good (and funny) advice.

Those are a few things bringing me joy this month! What’s on YOUR hot list? I always love hearing what you’re into.

xx, Hallie

Hi friends!

It’s that time again, my monthly round-up of the things I’ve been loving and reaching for lately. This month’s list is a little bit of everything: a makeup find that’s honestly changed my under-eye game, a pair of jeans I keep coming back to, two pieces of jewelry that have been on heavy rotation, and a book that landed in my lap right when I needed it. Let’s get into it!

1. Ciele Concealer + Concealer Brush

This makeup brush has been life-changing, if that’s even possible to say about a brush! The way it lets me apply concealer under my eyes (whether I’m using Ciele’s own concealer, which I happen to love, or another brand) is so smooth and flawless. Something about the shape and size is just right for that under-eye area. And the concealer itself is my go-to when I want a little more coverage. It stays put all day long.

Shop the Concealer

Shop the Brush

2. Mother Jeans (Slim, Dark Wash)

I’ve been a fan of Mother jeans for years, and I love the little bit of stretch they give. Lately I’ve been reaching for this darker wash with a slimmer fit, and it’s so good. It looks great with an untucked button-up and loafers, and because the leg is slimmer with an ankle length, it works with so many different shoes. It’s not a skinny jean, it’s a slim jean, and it feels really modern.

Shop the Jeans

3. BaubleBar Evil Eye Necklace

I am a sucker for almost any jewelry with an evil eye on it. I recently found this one on a cord, and I love that I can adjust the length to sit higher or lower on my neck. Something about the cord plus the evil eye feels casual enough for sweats or jeans and sneakers, but also dressy enough for a blouse and heels.

Shop the Necklace

4. Nadri Cluster Earrings

When I first saw these earrings I thought they were gorgeous, but they’re even better in person. The way they sit on my earlobe is just perfect. They are blingy for sure and they make a statement. I feel like I could wear them to a wedding, but also on a totally regular day. Maybe not to a workout, but for anything where I’m actually dressed with makeup on, they’re it.

Shop the Earrings

5. How to Menopause by Tamsen Fadal

I recently started following Tamsen Fadal on Instagram and have been fangirling pretty hard. Her book, How to Menopause, fell into my lap at the perfect time. It’s practical, real-life advice on how to take charge of your health, reclaim your life, and feel better than ever during this transition. Definitely worth the read.

Read the Book

Those are a few things bringing me joy this month! What’s on YOUR hot list? I always love hearing what you’re into.

xx, Hallie

Spring is finally here for real (even Cleveland is mostly cooperating), and this month’s favorites are all about feeling good in your skin, literally. From linen pants that actually work to the self-tanner that changed my mind, here’s what’s been on my radar!

Clothes: Aritzia Linen Lodge Pants

I’ve been hearing rave reviews about these pull-on linen pants and honestly, I was skeptical. Often when I try elastic tie-waist pants, they accentuate my midsection or look dumpy in the crotch. And every retailer seems to have a version of a linen pull-on pant right now. I’ll say this: not all are created equal.

This pair is AMAZEBALLS. I bought them for myself and for a few clients, and they love them too. FYI, they run big, I needed to size down to an XS.

I also did an entire try-on from Aritzia, which I often think of as a brand geared toward the 20- and 30-somethings. But I found some true gems for our crowd. Be sure to join my Facebook group to see the full try-on video tomorrow!

Shop the Linen Lodge Pants

Beauty: Self-Tanner That Actually Works

I try a lot of tanning creams. Personally, my legs just do not tan anymore, and IMHO, tan cellulite looks better than pasty white cellulite. LOL.

For years I’ve been a Dr. Dennis Gross tanning pads loyalist. But recently Loving Tan gifted me their 2 Hour Express Platinum Mousse and it is a game changer. I used it before I needed to take a photo in this stylist bathing suit, and while I still hated being in swimwear on camera, the tan made it a little more palatable. And it worked quickly too.

Shop the Loving Tan Mousse

Shop the Mitt

Beauty: No-Makeup Makeup

Typically, I’m not a big foundation wearer. I save it for when I’m on TV or at weddings. But since my chemical peel, my skin has been more reactive (meaning it gets red) although now that I’m about three months out, it’s finally settling down.

Anywho, this no-makeup makeup is magic. It looks like my skin but better. It’s easy and quick to apply, it lasts all day, and it’s clean. It kind of seems too good to be true, but it’s true! I wear the shade medium.

Shop the Foundation

Shop the Concealer

Wellness: MWH Subscription

Many of you know we have a wedding coming up this summer, and as the MOG, I realize it’s not about me… but it’s still a little about me. Ya know?!

I’m wearing a strapless dress and I want my arms to be the best they can be. Even though I lift for muscle 2–3 times a week, I’m looking for the sculpt, and Melissa Wood Health offers easy, quick workouts that can be done on demand.

I’ve been an Instagram follower of Melissa Wood for years. She’s adorable, real, and quite inspiring. I started using her subscription for the meditations (which I love, especially the walking ones), and now I’m adding in some of the arm workouts to get myself “wedding ready.”

She has a special offer just for my community! Use code HALLIEABRAMS to get your first year for only $120. That’s $0.32 a day. It can’t be beat.

Try MWH Subscription

Those are a few things bringing me joy this month! What’s on YOUR hot list? I always love hearing what you’re into.

xx, Hallie

Please share your best mother of wedding advice.

I didn’t know what to expect. Maybe a handful of responses. Maybe a few “good luck!” messages.

Instead, my inbox flooded. Dozens of moms who’ve been exactly where I am right now shared advice that ranged from hilarious to deeply wise to the kind of thing that made me put my phone down and just sit with it for a minute.

I wanted to share the best of what came in, because I think every mother of the bride or groom needs to hear this. Not from a magazine. Not from an expert. From women who’ve stood in those shoes (comfortable ones, apparently… more on that later) and lived to tell the tale.

Here’s what they told me, organized by theme, with my own thoughts woven in.

1. Be in the Moment

The Most Common Advice by Far

If there was one message that came through louder than anything else, it was this:

“Be in the moment.”

It showed up over and over again, in slightly different words each time:

“Slow down at each event to enjoy the moment.”

“Take time during the weekend to pause and really see everyone you love in the room.”

“Savor it like your last piece of chocolate cake you will ever have.”

“Live in the moment, soak it all in. The day goes by so quickly.”

And this one, which I think I’m going to tape to my bathroom mirror:

“About halfway through, stand in the corner of the room and just look out.”

That advice stopped me. Because I know myself. I’m a doer. I’m the person making sure the timeline is on track, the flowers look right, and everyone’s having a good time. The idea of intentionally pausing, standing in the corner and just taking it all in, is something I would never think to do on my own. But I’m writing it down. I’m going to do it.

Along those same lines, one mom shared something I’d never considered:

“Go to the room where the ceremony and the dinner are by yourself before anyone gets there and just take it all in. Take this moment and absorb all of it beforehand and the beauty you have created.”

I love the idea of having two intentional moments of stillness: one before anyone arrives, when it’s just the room and the anticipation, and one in the middle of it all, when you step back and take in the fullness of what’s happening around you. I’m doing both.

One mom put the phone thing perfectly:

“Put your phone away early and enjoy. Everyone else will get pics. Be present!”

And another confirmed why that works:

“Several friends and family members took so many spontaneous photos throughout the night and sent them my way at the end of the night. Lying in bed that night, I was able to relive those special moments, many I was not aware of at the time. Those photos are still the very best of a most wonderful day.”

She’s right. You don’t need to be the one documenting. There will be a photographer. There will be 200 phones. Your job that day is not to capture the moment. It’s to be in it. The photos will find you.

2. Step Back and Let Them Lead

The second biggest theme was some version of: this is their day. Let them run it.

“Let them plan it. It’s their day! Just enjoy and be supportive.”

“Give advice when it’s requested, otherwise get a zipper for your mouth.”

“Follow the lead of the happy couple, respect their wishes, even if they differ from yours.”

“Let them organize it themselves. Venue, who to invite, all the vendors. Step back.”

And then there was the saying that multiple people shared… clearly a well-known piece of MOG wisdom:

“Keep your mouth shut and your pocketbook open.”

I laughed, but there’s real truth in that. Especially for the mother of the groom. Your role is to support, not direct. And that can be a hard shift, especially if you’re someone who is used to being in charge (hi, that’s me).

I talked about this in my first post, the importance of asking your kids what role they want you to play. For me, that means letting my son and his fiancée take the lead on the vision and stepping in when they ask. Some days that’s easy. Some days I have to remind myself.

One response reframed it in a way that really stuck with me:

“Share your thoughts but don’t force them on the couple. Be the mom they go to.”

That’s the goal, right there. Not the mom who inserts herself. The mom they come to. There’s a big difference.

And for anyone doing this for the first time, one mom offered the kind of reassurance that only comes from experience:

“If this is the first wedding you’re throwing, try not to spend too much time worrying about the planning and execution of all the things. We’re planning our second daughter’s wedding now, and I’m enjoying the process so much more this time around.”

I felt that. This is our first. And it’s hard to know what to worry about and what to let go of when you have no frame of reference. But hearing that it gets easier (and more enjoyable) the second time around is genuinely comforting.

3. The Practical Stuff

a.k.a. the Advice That Will Save Your Feet, Your Sanity, and Possibly Your Dignity

This is where it got really fun. Because beyond the emotional wisdom, moms had very specific, very practical advice:

“Comfortable shoes for sure.”

“Get ready to walk 15,000 steps on the day. If you can, wear compression socks.”

Fifteen thousand steps! I believe it. Between the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and all the standing and mingling and dancing, your feet are working hard. This is exactly why I’m going to talk about shoes in a future post in this series — because the shoe question for mothers is real, and the answer is more nuanced than just “wear flats.” (Teaser: a long dress changes everything.)

Then there was this gem:

“Make sure there are arms on the chairs for the Hora. No joke.”

I almost spit out my coffee. But she’s absolutely right. If you’re having a Jewish wedding and you’re going up on that chair, you want something to hold onto. Filing this one away.

On the wedding planner front:

“Hire a wedding planner so you can be free to enjoy the day. ALL DAY.”

“Don’t worry about the details on the day. That’s what a wedding planner is for.”

But one mom added a layer to the planner advice that I thought was brilliant:

“Have a wingman. My sister-in-law said if anything doesn’t seem right or you need something done, just come to her and she’d take care of it. Sometimes there are things even a wedding planner can’t handle, and having a family member or friend who’s got your back makes all the difference.”

I love this so much. Because a planner handles logistics, but a wingman handles you. They’re the person who brings you a glass of water, tells you your lipstick needs a touch-up, or makes sure you actually sit down and eat. Speaking of which:

“Make sure you eat!”

Sounds obvious, right? But anyone who’s hosted a big event knows how easily you can get to 10 PM and realize you haven’t had a bite since noon. I’m making this someone’s job. I need a designated “make sure Hallie eats” person. (Maybe that’s the wingman’s first assignment.)

4. The Advice I Didn’t See Coming

I was surprised by how many moms had very specific photography-related advice. This clearly matters more than most people realize in the planning stage.

“If you are the mother of the groom, get a first-look picture with him. Priceless.”

I didn’t even know this was a thing, and now I can’t imagine not doing it. A first-look moment with my son before the ceremony? Yes. Absolutely yes.

“Make a list of photographs you would like the photographer to capture.”

“Make sure the photographer goes table by table to take a picture with the bride and groom during dinner.”

And then one mom added something that put a lump in my throat:

“I found those table-by-table photos so important now that all my relatives have passed.”

That stopped me. Because in the moment, table photos might feel like a formality. But years later? They become irreplaceable. The people in those photos won’t always be here. What a gift to have them captured.

One more that I’m strongly considering:

“As mother of the groom, I would hire your own photographer.”

The wedding photographer is focused (rightfully) on the couple. Having someone there to capture the moments from the parents’ perspective, such as the looks between you and your spouse, the moments with old friends, the getting-ready chaos, etc., is an investment I’m thinking about.

5. The Wisdom That Went Deeper

Some responses didn’t fit neatly into a category. They were just beautiful.

“She will be the mother of your future grandchildren.”

That one made me pause. Because in all the planning and outfit decisions and logistics, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. This isn’t just about a wedding. It’s about a family growing. A new relationship becoming permanent. That sentence puts it into proper focus. .

“Focus on planning a marriage, a lifetime together. It just kicks off with a party.”

Yes. A thousand times yes.

“Find a half hour with siblings, the bride, the groom to reflect before the whole weekend rolls in.”

I love the intentionality of this. Before the whirlwind starts, take a quiet moment with your people. Not a photo op. Just a breath together.

One mom shared something I’d never thought about – what to do after:

“Take a couple days off after all the guests have left town. Don’t jump back into life. Take a couple of days to plant those wonderful moments in your forever brain. Talk to friends who came, hear how wonderful it was, let it all digest before you go back to life.”

This might be the most underrated piece of advice in this entire roundup. Everyone talks about the lead-up. Nobody talks about giving yourself time to land afterward. I’m blocking off those days now.

One mom who had been both MOB and MOG shared something that shifted my perspective:

“I spent the day at my husband’s side as a couple for our son’s wedding. You get the moment once with each child. Each is different and each wedding will be different.”

The idea of experiencing this as a couple, not just as “mom,” is something I want to hold onto.

And for the mother of the groom specifically, one response made me grin:

“Walk slow. They came to see the show.”

I mean. If that’s not a confidence boost, I don’t know what is.

6. The Dress Advice That Confirms Everything I Tell My Clients

I saved this one for near the end because it’s so perfectly aligned with what I’ll be sharing in a future post about dress shopping:

“Try on the style of dress you thought you would never buy.”

This is literally what I tell every single client. The dress you pick off the rack or save on your phone is almost never the one you end up loving. The one you love is the one someone else puts you in that you never would have chosen yourself. I’ve seen it happen hundreds of times. And yes, it’s happening to me too. (More on that soon.)

What I’m Taking With Me

If I had to boil all of this advice down to one sentence, it would be:

Prepare everything you can in advance so that on the day, your only job is to be there.

That’s what the timeline is for. That’s what the planning is for. The skin prep, the dress shopping, the shoe decisions, the shapewear testing, the wingman, the photographer list… all of it exists so that when the day arrives, you’re not thinking about any of it. You’re standing in the corner of the room, looking out at everyone you love, and letting yourself feel it.

And then, when it’s all over, you’re giving yourself a few days to let it sink in before you go back to real life.

That’s the whole point of this series. Not perfection. Preparation that leads to presence.

Thank you to every single person who shared their wisdom. I’m carrying it with me. And if you have any more advice for me or for any other future “mothers of” that may be reading this post, leave it in the comments!

xo, Hallie

P.S. If you missed Post 1, start here: My Kid Got Engaged. Now What?

And it hits really differently.

There’s a difference between being the expert someone calls in and being the mom who’s navigating this with her own family. You’re no longer just thinking about silhouettes and color palettes. You’re navigating personalities, tastes, priorities, emotions, and the fact that multiple people you love all have their own ideas, their own vision boards, and their own challenges.

I want to say this clearly, because I’ll say it throughout this series: none of this is a slight on anyone. Not my future daughter-in-law, not her family, not my husband or kids, not anyone. We’re all coming to this as stakeholders with our own dreams for this day. And that’s beautiful. It’s also complicated.

So here on Substack, I’m going to share my journey. First person. Real time. I’m going to tell you about the stuff that went well, the stuff I’m still waiting to see how it turns out, and the stuff that hit a few bumps along the way. Not as dirty laundry, but as an honest look at what it’s actually like when the person who does this for a living has to do it for herself.

Welcome to the series. Let’s start at the very beginning.

First, Just Celebrate

Before you do anything else, before you start Googling dresses or booking facials or spiraling about what shoes to wear… just celebrate.

There’s a Yiddish word I love: kvell. It means to beam with pride. Not prideful, not showing off, just soaking in every moment with your whole heart. That’s what the first days and weeks should be. Look around at the people you love and let yourself feel the fullness of what’s happening.

Because here’s the thing: as a parent, this is exactly what we’ve been working toward. We raised our kids to launch. To leave the nest. To create their own life with someone they love. This engagement is the beginning of a new chapter. Not just for them, but for us too. And it’s worth sitting with that for a minute before the planning starts.

The Conversation That Matters Most

Once the celebrating has settled and the engagement glow has become your new normal, I’d encourage you to have a conversation with your child (and their partner, if it feels right). Ask them what role they want you to play.

Do they want you hands-on, helping them plan? Do they want you as an advisor, available when asked? Or do they mostly want you as a guest, there to celebrate?

And know this: their answer might change. They might not know yet. My kids are the first of their friends to get married, so they’re not coming to this with years of wedding-guest experience to draw from. They’re figuring it out as they go, relying on the internet, their coworkers, social media, and yes, even AI to help answer questions. They ask us when they need us.

It’s a different dynamic than when I got married decades ago. Back then, I leaned heavily on my mom. She guided me, showed me how things were done, and I mostly went along. I had opinions, but I’m not sure I had strong ones. And the information universe was much smaller. What you knew about weddings came from Brides magazine once a month. You’d tear out pages, bring them to vendors, and that was your vision board.

Today, your algorithm starts feeding you beach weddings the second you search “beach wedding.” The information comes fast, and it doesn’t always give you time to sit with it and figure out what actually resonates versus what just looks pretty on a screen. Depending on the kind of person you are, that’s either incredibly empowering or a one-way ticket to decision fatigue.

And Then Everything Shifted

When our kids first got engaged, they knew they wanted to get married in 2026. After a couple months of looking at venues, they landed on a historic location they loved and found a date in November.

So that’s where my head was when I started thinking about my own prep. November. Historic venue. Formal-ish. I was browsing dresses with that picture in mind.

Then in late January, a date in August opened up at the same venue and the kids jumped on it. Which is wonderful. And which also meant I went from having about a year to having about seven months.

I was really glad I hadn’t made any firm decisions yet. But it did mean one thing very clearly: it was time to get on it.

The MOB/MOG Prep Timeline I Wish Someone Had Given Me

Here’s the framework I’m using and it’s the same one I’d give any client. Plan backward from the wedding date. Not forward from today, not based on when you feel like starting. Backward from the day itself. That keeps everything grounded and takes the emotion out of the sequencing.

I’ll be going deeper on each of these categories in future posts, but here’s the overview:

6–9+ Months Out: Skin, Face & Wellness

This is when to have the conversation with your dermatologist or aesthetician. Anything with real downtime, such as chemical peels, laser treatments, and any procedures, needs to happen early. I did my chemical peel in February, a full six months before the wedding, and I’m so glad I gave myself that runway. (I wrote about the full skincare plan with Dr. Diana Ponsky on the blog!)

This is also when I started being more intentional about nutrition and exercise. I’m focusing on arm definition right now because I know I’ll likely be in something sleeveless. More on all of this in a future post!

5–6 Months Out: Start Thinking About The Dress

Not buying yet, necessarily. But browsing. Getting a sense of what appeals to you.

The rule of thumb: the bride picks her dress first, then the mother of the bride, and then the mother of the groom chooses something complementary. I’m still in the waiting and browsing phase, and I’m okay with that.

I’ll share my entire dress shopping experience in another post. Including where I looked, what I tried, what surprised me, and the advice I’d give anyone starting this process.

4–5 Months Out: The Other Events

Here’s what nobody tells you: it’s not one outfit. It’s several. For us, that’s two showers, a rehearsal dinner, the wedding, and a Sunday gathering the next day. Each has its own vibe, its own formality, and its own considerations. I’m planning to start shopping for those outfits in April. (A whole post on this is coming too.)

6–8 Weeks Out: Botox, Fillers & Final Beauty Decisions

Dr. Ponsky’s rule: everything needs to be completely done six weeks before the event. That gives time for everything to settle and look natural. My Botox and filler appointments are scheduled for early July.

3–4 Weeks Out: Hair, Tailoring, Teeth Cleaning, & The Full Run-Through

Final hair color and cut. Visit the dentist for a cleaning. Last alterations. And the step I think is most important: putting the entire look together from head to toe (dress, shoes, shapewear, undergarments, jewelry, bag) and making sure it all works. No surprises on the day of.

2 Weeks Out: Nothing New

No new skincare. No new products. No experiments. Calm, predictable everything. Workout, get a manicure, pedicure, and spray tan. This is maintenance mode.

What’s Coming in This Series

This is just the beginning. Over the next several months, I’m going to take you along with me in real time as I navigate all of this. Here’s a preview of what’s ahead:

• A roundup of advice from women who have already been through this!

• The dress: my shopping experience, what I learned, and how to find something you love (not just something that’s fine)

• All the other outfits: showers, rehearsal dinner, the day-after (and why the “no white” rule now applies to everything)

• The stuff nobody talks about: shapewear, undergarments, and what goes under the dress

• Skin, hair & face update: how my peel healed, the Botox timeline, and my hair plan

• Shoes and accessories: yes, shoes matter even with a long dress (and I have strong feelings about this)

• The final countdown checklist: everything you need done in the last two weeks

• The reveal: photos, reflections, and everything I learned along the way

Some of it will be polished advice. Some of it will be me telling you what went sideways. All of it will be real.

And if you’ve already been through it, I’d love to hear what you wish someone had told you. Reply to this post or find me on Instagram at @thewardrobeconsultant.

This is going to be a ride. I’m really glad you’re here for it.

xo, Hallie

It's officially spring (at least on paper… Cleveland hasn't fully gotten the memo yet). Between Passover prep, a trip to California, and some really great TV, March has been full! Here's what's been on my radar.

Dr. Brandt Spring Edit Set

I’m loving this trifecta of products, especially after my recent chemical peel. The set is gentle (ish) and lets me use both retinol and vitamin C without irritation. For a limited time, the Spring Edit Set is being sold at a huge savings, so it’s a great time to try it out if you’ve been curious.

Shop the Spring Edit Set

MZ Wallace Bag

Honestly, I’ve been using this bag the past few weeks and it is sooo fab. I’ve gotten tons of compliments on it in real life, it’s easy to wear with both shoulder and crossbody strap options, and the nylon makes it hardy and casual enough for athleisure. I can’t say enough good things.

Shop the MZ Wallace Bag

Watch: Shrinking

I watched the most recent season of Shrinking on the flight to California and found myself both laughing out loud and crying. Sorry to my seatmates. I’m not typically someone who gets emotional with TV shows, but this one is just so good. If you haven’t started it yet, do yourself a favor.

Watch Shrinking on Apple TV

Cook: Chopped Liver

Chopped liver is either a love it or hate it dish. My family happens to love it. For years I purchased it from the kosher butcher, but around COVID the store-bought version started tasting kind of… meh. I found myself doctoring it up, and then I thought, why am I not just making this myself?

Now, gefilte fish is a hard pass for me. No one really likes it, so store-bought is fine. But chopped liver? It gets demolished. So IMHO, it’s worth the potchke (Yiddish for fussing and making a mess).

This recipe is originally from Tori Avey (I unfortunately don’t have my grandmother’s recipe) and I’ve tweaked it over the years. Here’s how I make it:

What you’ll need:

• 1½ pounds chicken livers (buy the already broiled version)

• ¼ cup schmaltz, divided (purchase at the butcher, or Empire makes it in the refrigerated section)

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced (for a sweeter chopped liver, use up to 4 onions)

• 5 hard boiled eggs, peeled and roughly chopped

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to make it:

Divide the livers in half. Sauté the first batch in 2 tablespoons of schmaltz for only about 1 minute, you do not want them to dry out. Transfer them to a separate bowl along with the oil from the pan, then repeat with the second batch. The livers should be slightly pink on the inside, brown and firm on the outside. Do not overcook.

Add the thinly sliced onions to a covered pan (no need to re-oil). On medium heat, leave the onions undisturbed for 10 minutes. You don’t want them to burn, so peek a couple of times, but this is the key to the sweet caramelization process. After 10 minutes, uncover and continue to sauté for 30–40 minutes. Be patient! When the onions are reduced by about a third and golden, they’re ready.

While the onions are cooking, hard boil your eggs.

Once the onions are done, add them to the bowl with the livers along with the roughly chopped eggs. I do not chop by hand, although some say that is the way to do it. If you have the time and energy, go for it. I put everything (plus salt and pepper) into a food processor or blender and pulse for about 30 seconds until it’s all combined.

Taste and season as needed. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the salt and pepper! The flavor dies down once it sits and chills.

Those are a few things that have been bringing me joy lately! What’s on YOUR hot list this month? I always love hearing from you.

xx, Hallie

It's the shortest month of the year but I've got plenty to share. From the world's easiest sweet potato recipe to a show that sent me straight back to the '90s, here's what's been on my radar lately.

KMJ Tops

I’ve been crushing on KMJ for a while now, and the brand just keeps getting better. The concept is so good — they take men’s vintage shirts and revive them into one-of-a-kind tops for women. Every single piece is unique, which I love.

I’m up to about 3 or 4 of them now, so I’m slowly becoming a KMJ collector. And every time I wear one, people ask where they can get their own. They’re the kind of piece that just makes an outfit feel more interesting without trying too hard.

I wear a small across the board in this brand. Save 10% with my code HALLIE10!

Shop the tops

Watch: Love Story (JFK Jr. & Carolyn)

I’ve been watching Love Story, the JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy series, and like the rest of the internet, I’m getting completely swept up in ‘90s nostalgia.

But here’s the funny part — I watched the first few episodes with Greg, who is the exact same age as me, and he knew NOTHING about them. Like, zero. He didn’t recognize the iconic photos, didn’t know the story, nothing. And it wasn’t because he wasn’t paying attention in the ‘90s, it’s because he wasn’t reading tabloids or People magazine, so it all just passed him by.

If this were happening today, it would show up on one of his social feeds whether he wanted it to or not. It really made me think about how much we’re on information overload now. There was something kind of nice about the simplicity of an era where you could just… not know things.

Watch Love Story on Hulu

Ursa Major Golden Hour Recovery Cream

My skin gets really dry, especially in the colder months. And this Ursa Major body butter is everything. It’s luscious and creamy but not greasy at all. And it smells absolutely divine.

I’m on my second tub and just ordered another — which I think tells you everything you need to know.

Shop the Recovery Cream

Best Sweet Potatoes Ever

I’m not exaggerating — this might be the best sweet potato you’ll ever eat.

@allrecipesWe just found the best way to cook sweet potatoes, thanks to @Noelle ❀ Motherhood! This is the only way we’re going to eat them from now on. 🥔 Find out more ways to cook sweet potatoes at the @allrecipes bio! 🧡 🎥: Nicole @NicoleMcLaughlin #potatoes #sweetpotato

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I originally came up with this method because baking a whole sweet potato took way too long and I had zero patience for it. (Instant gratification is kind of my thing.) Now I’ve been seeing a similar approach popping up on TikTok, so clearly the internet has caught on. Here’s my version:

The Recipe:

• Heat oven to 375–400°F

• Wash your sweet potato well and slice in half lengthwise

• Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper

• Rub both sides of the potato with olive oil and place cut side down

• Sprinkle coarse salt (kosher or Maldon) on top

• Bake until tender and your kitchen smells caramelized — usually about 30 minutes

• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes after you pull it out of the oven

• Plate cut side up and enjoy the best potato of your life

That’s it. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps. Just really, really good sweet potatoes.

So those are a few things that have been bringing me joy lately! Now I want to know what YOU have been enjoying! What’s on your hot list right now?!

xx,
Hallie

Welcome to the new home of Hallie’s Hot List!

This used to live inside my monthly newsletter, but I realized it deserved a little more room to breathe. The Hot List is where I share what I’m loving lately, from books and beauty to little things that make everyday life feel more fun, more stylish, or just easier.

Consider this your monthly peek into what’s catching my eye, what I’m using on repeat, and what I genuinely can’t stop talking about. I’m so glad you’re here.

Cool-Girl Sunnies + Red Beads

There’s really nothing new about the outfits I’ve been wearing lately… except the sunglasses and red beads. Somehow, adding these two simple pieces to multiple looks has made everything feel fresher, more modern, and just a little more fun. Proof that small details really do make a difference.

Shop the look

People We Meet On Vacation

It’s been a hard month, and this movie adaptation of a favorite book absolutely hit the rom-com sweet spot. Cute, charming, and in my humble opinion, just as good as the book. I laughed out loud more than once and finished it with a big smile on my face. Exactly the kind of feel-good watch we all need sometimes.

Watch on Netflix

Naked Sundays Sunscreen

I am a very dedicated sunscreen user. Dr. Diana Ponsky drilled that into me. Over the last few months, I’ve been using Naked Sundays with SPF 50, which is higher than what I was using before.

Since I started a tretinoin regimen to prep for a chemical peel ahead of the wedding in August, high SPF is non-negotiable for me. This one hasn’t caused breakouts or irritation, gives a subtle glow, and feels great on my skin. I absolutely love it.

Shop the Sunscreen

Homemade Hummus (thanks to my Ninja blender)

I spotted this recipe on Sivan’s Kitchen and knew I had to try it. It’s fresh, preservative-free, packed with fiber, and hits my taste buds just right.

I made it when all my kids were home and it was completely devoured. I’ll link Sivan’s original recipe if you want to start there, but below are my adjusted proportions. A little less garlic and tahini, a bit more lemon and salt.

Don’t be afraid to play around. Just like getting dressed, experimenting is how you land on the version that feels best for you. And that’s what matters.

Ingredients

• 2 cans garbanzo beans, rinsed

• 2 garlic cloves

• 1½ heaping teaspoons Maldon or kosher salt

• ⅔ cup sesame paste (tahini)

• ½ cup water, plus more if needed

• Juice of 2–3 lemons

Instructions

Add everything to a blender and blend on medium for about 5 minutes, until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides halfway through so everything blends evenly. Add more water if it’s too thick.

Store in a glass container.
Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and chopped parsley.

So those are a few things that have been bringing me joy lately! Now I want to know what YOU have been enjoying! What’s on your hot list right now?!

xx,
Hallie