Caputo’s Chocolate Tasting

Caputo’s Chocolate Tasting

Caputo’s Chocolate Tasting

Salt Lake City, Utah

One of the most fun activities we did when I attended the Women in Travel Summit was a chocolate tasting at the famous Caputo’s Market. It was so fun and we had  a great time laughing, learning, and tasting! Let me tell you all about my Caputo’s chocolate tasting.

  Caputo’s Market

Nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, Caputo’s Market stands as a culinary haven, captivating locals and visitors alike with its dedication to the art of fine foods. Caputo’s Market has become a cherished institution in the city’s vibrant food scene. From its humble beginnings, this family-owned market has evolved into a food oasis. They have everything a foodie could desire, including artisanal cheeses, handcrafted chocolates, imported olive oils, and an impressive selection of fine wines and spirits.

Chocolate Tasting

This is their most popular tasting class. Learn what makes one chocolate “fine” and the other just “standard.” Find out how to identify flavors, get familiarized with great chocolate makers, and learn other priceless bits of chocolate know-how.

  Dark chocolate was invented in the 60/s but it was gross.  It took about 25 years perfect it. It was actually only in the 90’s that it really took off. We couldn’t wait to learn more about how to tell what makes chocolate “good,” Isn’t all chocolate good? Nope…and I may never look at (or taste) chocolate the same way.

  We first learned about where chocolate came from and what was is the process of getting it from bean to bar.

  Caputo’s Chocolate Tasting

Learn to taste like a pro.

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Maven District Salt Lake City

Maven District Salt Lake City

One of the best experiences I had in Salt Lake City was exploring the Maven District and meeting some of the fabulous strong women who own businesses there. The Maven District Salt lake City is made up of about 100 small businesses and 75-80% are women owned. It felt natural to gather like-minded women together and that is where this amazing concept was born.

They believe in collaboration over comparison. They support diversity, they support women, they support local.

I love that they attract empowered women. As they say, “Our Maven community is made up of doers, thinkers, risk takers, rule breakers, question askers, boundary pushers, explorers and bold humans who aren’t here to settle…”

We left as a group of women that were proud of ourselves as well as each other. Thank you for making such an impact on us. I can’t wait to return with my 2 teenage daughters. Let me show you around and introduce you to some of the business owners we met.

Let’s make some rings with

Erica @thelandofsalt

We broke up into small groups and I was in the group that got to spend a few hours with Erica, from The Land of Salt, creating our own custom stacking rings. We had a blast! Erica taught us how to measure, cut our material, and bend it.

Creating stackable rings at The Land of Salt

Then came the fun part…soldering it! She gave us such confidence that we could do it and with her encouragement we all soldered our own rings.

Soldering a ring in Salt Lake City

She gave them a good cleaning and we were done.

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2024 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Tulips and a love letter

2024 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Show your appreciation for the special mothers in your life with heartfelt gifts that reflect their unique personalities. Whether she loves home decor, is a fashion-forward trendsetter, or is a wellness enthusiast, our selection of thoughtful gifts is sure to make her feel cherished. Let us help you find the perfect token of gratitude to honor the extraordinary women who make the world a brighter place. Enjoy our 2024 Mother’s Day Product Roundup!

Serucell

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

Everyone wants to have great skin, but in order to do that you need to develop a good morning and nighttime routine.  Serucell serum is the perfect base product for both routines. When you add it, you will immediately see a difference. So what makes it so great? Billions of cells communicate with each other to produce collagen, peptides, proteins and growth factors to maintain healthy skin. But dehydration, stress, age, and other factors can hinder that communication, and you’re left with skin that can look dull, damaged, and dehydrated. Serucell’s KFS supports those layers to signal and rebuild. The bond between the layers grows stronger, helping your skin stay radiant and resilient. The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles reduced, skin tone and texture improved and smoother, skin is firmer, more radiant skin revealed.

WHAT PRODUCTS DID WE GET?

KFS Cellular Protein Complex Serum

You know I am a firm believer in using serums during both my morning and evening skincare routine. I have been using this serum for 2 weeks now and I have already seen a drastic improvement in my skin. It feels firmer and fine lines have disappeared.  I can’t wait to see what my skin is like after a month of using it.  I’ll keep you updated.

GIVE THEM A FOLLOW!

WEBSITE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

 

Simple Painting

One of the most relaxing things to do when I’m stressed is pour a glass of red wine, light a candle, and do a craft. Simple Painting introduced me to a new craft that anyone (even me) can do…paint by numbers. Painting allows you to tune out negative thinking and allows you to spend peaceful time with yourself.  They have so many projects you can choose from so there’s something for everyone. I love that you can choose your painting by project length (evening, weekend, one-week, multi-week). They give you everything you need to create your own work of art, so no excuses.

WHAT PRODUCT DID WE GET?

Delightful Flowers

What’s included? Numbered linen canvas, Numbered paint pots, Set of 3 brushes,  Color guide.

Size: 16”x20”

Project Length: One-week project

WHY DO TRAVELERS LIKE THEM?

One of the coolest things you can do with Simple Painting is turn a photo of yours into a paint by number piece.  Turn your travel memories into a unique piece of art.

WE ALL LOVE A DEAL!!

Use code Christine15 for 15% off 

GIVE THEM A FOLLOW!

WEBSITE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

Diamond Candles

Diamon Candle in front of vase

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

Everyone loves a good love story and this one is so romantic! David, their founder, had just bought an engagement ring with the intention of proposing to Brenda. Without anything to put the ring in, he bought a candle knowing how much she loved them. With the ring in one hand and the candle in the other, the idea for Diamond Candles was born.

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2024 New Year’s Resolution Book Roundup

book on table with vase and coffee

2024 New Year’s Resolution Book Roundup

One of my favorite things about the start of the new year is the promise of fresh beginnings, goals of self-improvement, and the chance to reimagine what your life can be. It’s the perfect time to embrace the spirit of renewal and transformation by embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re seeking wellness, personal growth, or simply aiming to make 2024 your best year yet, our handpicked selection of books is designed to support and motivate you on your path to success. Cheers to a year of growth, positivity, and the pursuit of a better, brighter you! Enjoy our 2024 New Year’s Resolution Book Roundup!

The Adventure Challenge Family Edition

This is the perfect book for those who want to leave a legacy of memories with their tribe. This book will help you obliterate boredom, break out of ruts, discover new favorite traditions, and create those moments that you’ll tell stories about for years. With challenges ranging from baking an apple pie blindfolded to painting on a unique canvas, boring family board games are a thing of the past. Until you scratch it off, your adventure is a mystery! Once you’ve scratched off the challenge, you HAVE to do it. Each challenge has a time and budget guide to help you decide. Great for all families but is ideally created with kids ages 4-15 in mind and for families of around 4-8 members. Don’t forget to take pictures and journal about your experiences in the provided spaces. Once you’ve completed all the challenges, you’ll have a scrapbook full of wonderful memories to look back on.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Buy it here!

Instagram

Facebook

The Adventure Challenge Kids Edition

 Entertain your kids for hours with adventures they’ll remember forever. The Adventure Challenge Kids Edition is here to create memories that your kids will love. Whether they’re building a house made of snacks, making special gifts to give to friends or playing “Nature Bingo,” your kids will want to do these adventures over and over again! All activities require very little set up, supplies or parental supervision. With the included parent key, each adventure is a surprise for the kids but not for you. This book is packed with playful and creative scratch-off adventures your kids can do on their own or with friends and siblings. Ideal for ages 6-12. Don’t forget to take pictures and encourage your kids to write a few notes about their adventures in the provided spaces. Once they’ve completed all the challenges, they’ll have a scrapbook full of fun memories to look back on.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Buy it here!

Facebook

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The 50 Best Experiences to Give for Gifts

I don’t know about you, but my kids don’t need more toys or knickknacks.  I feel like an experience is a much better gift because it lets us make memories together.  I swear, the closer the girls get to heading off to college, the crazier more sentimental I get about the importance of family time.  If you’re thinking of giving an experience for a gift this year, here are some great ideas. Here are Best Experiences to Give as Gifts:

Give lessons:

Art classes

Canvas painting

Pottery painting

Voice lessons or acting classes

Cooking classes- Many places offer weekly classes or workshops.

Music lessons- You could also rent them the equipment they’ll need.

Dance classes- Take them to an introductory class, buy them some tutus, or help pay for their classes.

Woodworking- you could also give them tools to use, supplies, and DIY books

Help pay for them to go to summer camp.  Or give things they’ll need, like trunks,

Give animal experiences:

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2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Women

Time to celebrate the fabulous women in your life, and what better way to show your appreciation than with thoughtful gifts that bring warmth and joy? We’ve curated a collection of presents that cater to the diverse interests and tastes of all the women on your list. Whether you’re shopping for your mom, sister, wife, or a cherished friend, our guide is your go-to resource for finding the perfect gifts that will make this holiday season memorable. Enjoy our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Women!

ANAIRUI Lip Scrubs Exfoliator & Moisturizer-Lip Sleeping Mask & Sugar Lip Scrub

This lip care kit includes a butter lip sleeping mask and a sugar lip scrub. This healing and repair kit gently exfoliates lips and gives intensive lips repair. It’s great for dry, chapped lips and is a great overnight rescue kit for lips.

BODUM Pour Over Coffee Maker

Includes a reusable stainless steel mesh filter so you don’t need paper filters.  Double-wall insulation keeps coffee hot for hours. Cork grip stays cool, allowing comfortable, barehanded transport even when carafe is filled with hot coffee.

MakeUp Eraser, 7-Day Set

Erase all makeup with just water! Including waterproof mascara, eyeliner, foundation, lipstick, and more. Reusable, machine washable, and eliminates waste.

Chunky Cable Knit Throw Blanket 

This beautiful blanket comes in a variety of colors.  I love the burnt orange. Woven into a luxurious chunky knit, 100% natural cotton yarn fibers support a neutral finish that complements farmhouse chic home décor. Extra soft, super thick & comfy, Their large 51 inch x 63 inch throw blanket is just the wrap you need to snuggle up.  I love that this blanket is machine washable.

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2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Teens

Christmas Gifts

‘Tis the season! Welcome to our Christmas Gift Guide for Teens. Whether you’re shopping for a fashionista, a tech enthusiast, a creative artist, or an adventure seeker, we’ve created a list of must-have gifts that will light up the faces of teenagers on your Christmas list. Enjoy our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Teens!

Memoking Sticker Printer 

Only measuring half the size of a phone and weighing about 5 oz, which is easy to be put in your  pocket and carry it anywhere you want. Prints in black and white. Great for taking notes, creating organizers, printing out their artwork, and much more. Easy to use app makes it convenient.

POWERUP 4.0 The Next-Generation Smartphone Controlled Paper Airplane Kit

Grab a sheet of paper, fold it, and go! Instantly put yourself in the cockpit of an amazing smartphone controlled paper airplane that does high speed tricks. The bluetooth module, which includes autopilot control, connects to your phone so you can experience the sensation of flying countless paper, foam, and even Balsa Wood airplane models.

Loops, Barrel Rolls, & Hammerheads are achieved with the special Acro Mode! Your paper plane’s onboard computer automatically calibrates your paper airplane for imperfect weather with a built-in launch assist and wind stabilizer. Now hobbyists, tinkerers, or students can become the flight controller!

MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen with OLED Display

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2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide

Christmas ornament on a tree

2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide

We all deserve moments of rejuvenation and self-indulgence, and what better way to show yourself or a loved one some appreciation than through thoughtful self-care gifts? Whether you’re searching for ways to relax, destress, or simply pamper yourself, our self-care gift guide is here to help you discover a curated selection of products and ideas that will nurture the body, mind, and soul. Enjoy our 2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide!

Evolv

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Evolv delivers biology-driven, science-based, high-performance products using natural and organic ingredients—for transformative visible results in all hair types. Their products produce visible results you can see and feel. Every product in the line does multiple jobs, and is highly effective. Experience EVOLVh – and you too will describe your hair as revitalized, renewed, restored, youthful, vibrant, soft, and manageable.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

EVOLVh Hair care products

SmartColor Protecting Shampoo

This ultra-protective, anti-fade shampoo keeps color in and impurities out. Its breakthrough color-preserving formula gently cleanses, while targeted amino acids strengthen and protect against damaging dyes and other color treatments for hair that’s healthy, shiny, and vibrant. It’s a smart investment for your color—and your wallet.

SmartColor Protecting Conditioner

This innovative, color-preserving, and reparative formula deep conditions while targeted amino acids strengthen and protect against damaging dyes and treatments. Sublime hydration leaves hair soft, smooth, and shiny—with vibrant color that lasts.

EVOLVh Hair care products

UltraShine Moisture Shampoo

Their weightless color-safe shampoo gently cleanses with sulfate-free, non-stripping ingredients—infusing nourishing antioxidants plus amino and fatty acids into strands for visibly stronger, smoother hair, and amplified shine from root to tip.

Ultrashine Moisture Conditioner

Their bestselling conditioner transforms dull, drab tresses into hair that’s free of frizz and full of shine—infusing nourishing antioxidants plus amino and fatty acids into strands to hydrate and detangle without weighing them down. Rinse out for a smooth, silky sheen you need to see to believe.

EVOLVh Hair care products

Ultimate Styling Lotion

A lightweight do-it-all styling lotion with medium hold. It smooths strands, defines curls into bouncy ringlets, eliminates frizz, boosts shine, and keeps it all together with buildable hold minus the crunch. All with heat & UV protection to boot.

SmartStart Leave-In Conditioner

A foundational step in your EVOLVh routine after shampooing and conditioning, this bestselling leave-in helps close the cuticle for brilliant shine and maximum smoothness. Plus, it nourishes and strengthens strands with plant-powered ingredients, while defending against damaging heat & UV rays.

EVOLVh Hair care products

Protect Your Color Discovery Kit

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2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide

2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide

Whether you’re shopping for the perfect present or just looking to treat yourself, you’ve stumbled upon a treasure trove of delicious discoveries. From cozy coffee blends that’ll have you bouncing out of bed, to teas that will comfort you on chilly nights, to unique cocktails you can share with friends, we’ve got your cravings covered. Here is our 2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide.  Cheers!

Mouth

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

If you’re looking for a gift basket, Mouth has so many options for you. Some boxes are all about pickles, wellness, snacks, charcuterie, and more.  I love that you can shop for your basket by region, diet, or occasion.  They also have a great subscription box service so you can keep giving month after month!. Everything at Mouth is made in small-batches by makers from across the U.S. They’re passionate about telling their inspiring stories, bringing their Mouthwatering products to you and helping their small businesses (and your appetite) grow.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Cozy Cocktail Kit

Cocktail kit with simple syrups

Upgrade your bar cart to capture the best flavors of fall and celebrate the changing of seasons. Our hand-picked selection brings warmth, spice, and everything nice to your standard supply of spirits. Transform that old fashioned with a dash of apple blossom bitters, enhance that Moscow mule with the tartness of pomegranate, and add festive flair to your mocktails with a little Cranberry 5 Spice. These mixers are a must-have addition to any festive feast you have planned. Bottoms up! The ideal gift for a hostess-with-the-mostess, a bar-cart connoisseur, and lovers of libations.

WHO DOESN’T LIKE A SPECIAL DEAL? ENJOY!

Take a peek at their website.  When I wrote this, there was a deal: Get 15% off when you join their mailing list. (Offer not valid if it’s not currently on their website.)

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Kolkata Chai

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Kolkata chai mix

Kolkata Chai uses the same CTC Black Assam tea that’s used by chaiwallahs across India. Organically sourced from legacy tea estates, it brings that authentic, street-style chai flavor while being a better-for-you source of caffeine. Their kit comes with instructions and is easy to make in 5-7 minutes. Welcome to your new favorite drink!

They have the most amazing recipes on their blog.  They have recipes for everything from desserts to oatmeal to iced drinks. Take a peek.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Signature Masala Chai Mix

kolkata chai mix

Their Signature Masala Chai mix delivers a bold, delicious cup of tea. Each packet contains 100% Organic Assam tea with generous amounts of whole cardamom, cinnamon, and spices.

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2023 Candle Holiday Gift Guide

candle next to christmas gifts

2023 Candle Holiday Gift Guide

As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to infuse warmth and ambiance into your festivities than with the soft, flickering glow of candles. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy atmosphere for a winter gathering, seeking the perfect present for a loved one, or simply want to add to your home decor, candles are a timeless and thoughtful choice. Here is our 2023 Candle Holiday Gift Guide. Enjoy!

Southern Charm Candle Co

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

The best part about candles is they have the power to transport you to a new place.  Southern Charm captures the essence of the south, and you will soon feel like you’re sitting on a front porch sipping on sweet tea as the pecan pie cools on the windowsill. Not only so they smell incredible, but they are beautiful.  They top each candle with a decorative wax that will make you feel bad burning it. Look how cute they are?

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Christmas Cookie

(Nothing says Christmas more than warm and buttery sugar cookies on the plate for Santa! Our festive Christmas Cookie Candle has notes of buttermilk, creamy vanilla, burnt sugar, and caramel.)

Gingerbread

(With warm notes of frosted icing, and ginger spice along with two gingerbread men peering through the top of the jar, this is sure to be a holiday favorite for any household!  )

Tree Farm

(Their Tree Farm candle was created to evoke the fond memories of a day trip to the farm to select the perfect tree for Christmas.  It has a rich evergreen scent, a snow white base, and is topped with a Christmas tree.)

Candles from Southern Charm Candle Co

Banana Pudding

(Banana Puddin’ is the wonderful, creamy aroma of a southern classic complete with a vanilla wafer on top!) 

Pecan Praline

(Pecan Praline’s warm and tantalizing blend of butter, pecans, vanilla, and dark brown sugar was inspired by the confectionary shops on Market Street in Charleston, South Carolina.)

Front Porch Frappe

(Front Porch Frappe is a complex yet welcoming scent of a fresh brewed pot of coffee shared amongst friends.)

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