Your Next October Read

I love the smell of new books (is that weird) but there's honestly nothing better than curling up with an amazing page-turner on a chilly night. For those of us addicted to our phones - it's also a great way to give yourself a digital detox. I reached out to Diana C. of @bookoffee (a true bibliophile in every way) to give us her top 3 reads for the month. Here's what she recommended:

What to read when it’s cold and you need:

….an inspiring love story:

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Before We Were Strangers by Renee Carlino

The books starts off with Matt, a bored with life photographer at National Geographic. He feels uninspired and hates people at work. Which immediately makes him relatable to almost all readers 😊. Then one day he sees someone he recognizes on the train platform in Manhattan. Grace, his ex-girlfriend he never got over. Everything they lived together comes rushing back and you get to read their love story from both Grace and Matt’s POV in both present and past. .

The blurb on the back of the book is the ad Matt posts on Craigslist’s Missed Connections sections and how he and Grace meet again.

For beautiful writing and believing in love again pick this one up.

….a good cry:

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Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

Lou and Will have nothing in common. And yet they find themselves together in a challenging relationship. Lou is Will’s caretaker and Will is so angry with the state in which a motorcycle accident left him in that in the beginning you think they will never be able to have a proper conversation. But when they do it’s beautiful. This is definitely an inspiring book and a story that begs the question what do you do when the one thing that makes your loved one happy makes you incredibly sad?

…to feel empowered:

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The Twentieth Wife by Indu Sundarasen

This book tells the story of Mehrunnisa, also known as Nur Jahan, the most controversial queen of India. Her determination and brilliance will make you fall in love with her, as much, if not more than Prince Salim. Despite all the hardships, Nur Jahan manages to prevail and outsmart enemies in a way that will inspire you to be stronger in real life. For history, love, and power plays read this amazing story about one of the first women in the world to have her image printed on coins.

Before you read any of these, open any of these links to make the experience extra special: experience 1, experience 2, or both at the same if you are a badass. Then make a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy reading the right way.

Let us know what you end up reading or any great books you read recently by leaving us a comment 📖.

NYC: Weekend Plans

A few amazing things to include in your weekend plans before the summer season ends.

1. Hamilton's Soda Fountain & Luncheonette

I've heard, seen, and tasted so many great things from this historical luncheonette. The whole place is kind of like a time warp taking any that dare enter to a more simpler times. The interior is basically every fashion blogger & Instagrammers' dream - everything is so white and retro. If you somehow resist the urge to capture a snap make sure to order a fizzy drink or a milkshake. I like to drop in on less-than-stellar days and treat myself to happiness in a glass - it's cheaper than therapy ;).

51 Bank Street, Greenwich Village - get more info here.

via nybg.org

2. Frida Kahlo Exhibit @ New York Botanical Garden

I have not yet been to this exhibit and it's driving me bonkers. However, it's on the must-do list and will definitely get accomplished before it's over. For those like-minded fans visiting or in NYC, we have until November 1st to view her reimagined garden and a dozen of her paintings. Getting to view an artist's surrounding (even if it's a replication) is one of the best ways to learn more about what goes on beyond the canvas. Also, I'm excited to learn more about my culture as half-Mexicana.

2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx - get more info here.

3. Baohaus

OK, so I totally added this eatery to my must-eats after viewing it on the Layover. I have passed by Baohaus millions upon millions of times and have never once pondered the thought of venturing inside. You guys, if I could I would go back in time and stop "past Aileen" in her tracks and demand she order the Birdhaus Bao & Taro Fries (please note the delicious things you should order) I would. Instead, I cry myself to sleep at all the missed opportunities of Birdhaus Baos. Don't let this become you! If you walk/drive/fly by Baohaus, just stop, take a break and eat there. Avoid my misery.

238 East 14th Street, Stuy Town - get more info here.

Bleeding Hearts

Summer, the best time to indulge in NYC's street art and ask your S.O. for a few snaps while you're there.

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Visiting the Bleeding Hearts mural by James Goldcrown has been on my list for the past three months (maybe more) but coordinating time with my boyfriend hasn't allowed for it until now. Once there I was quite surprised by the amount of foot traffic this tiny stretch of street gets. If you find yourself in Soho find it at the intersection of Broome & Mott Street.

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Dress: c/o Gentle Fawn  Heels: JoieEarringsJewels of June  BraceletNashelle (plate of food donated for every piece sold)  Rings: Zoetik  Purse: Tory Burch  LipbalmEOS Lip Balm

We were headed to a quick dinner at the Butcher's Daughter which gave me all the reason (and more) to dress up my Gentle Fawn striped dress. By dress up, I mean switch out my Adidas for these blue Joie heels. Both pairs have been getting so much wear this summer - it has actually been making my closet/shoe consolidation a lot easier.

OH, and if you're into street art you should all follow Eva Chen's second Instagram account @PhotogenicWalls - it's seriously the best.

Photos by Victor Cerejo.

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