Summer has OFFICIALLY rolled in y’all! It’s been heating up for a while, but if you’re like me, you probably waited a bit to get your skin “Summer Ready.” Not to fret, friends, because I’m going to share with you my summer skincare prep tips that will help you get yourself ready for fun in the sun! These steps and practices can easily be done at home on a slow Saturday or Sunday morning, repeating as needed throughout the season to ensure your skin stays in tip-top shape.

Exfoliate
First things first: EXFOLIATE your body! Before you cleanse, moisturize, or even shave, you need to get rid of all of those dead skin cells. Nothing feels better than a great body scrub, and my number 1 tip is to actually use it while your skin is dry vs adding water first. TRUST ME, if you apply your favorite body scrub while your skin is dry and then rinse it off, your skin will feel like buttah!

Herbivore Botanicals Coco Rose Body PolishHerbivore Botanicals Coco Rose Exfoliating Body Scrub, $36

Cleanse
After exfoliating, rinse it all off and then cleanse. Since it’s Summer and you may find yourself showering a bit more because of the heat, I advise finding a cleanser that’s a little more luxe than usual. Make it feel like a spa moment and use cleansers that add in extra hydration, smell delicious, and don’t dry out your skin.

Nécessaire The Body Wash

Nécessaire The Body Wash, $25

Moisturize
Since you will be showing more skin than normal since it’s so hot outside, make sure your skin is hydrated and moisturized. Nobody likes seeing ashy hands or feet, people! Lotions should be a staple, obviously, but might I suggest adding in a body oil or a whipped body butter? Using these will take your skin’s hydration to the next level. The secret is to apply the oil straight out of the shower while skin is still wet to lock in the moisture before you dry off. Once you dry off, layer on a rich body butter and let it soak in before you get dressed. Your skin will eat it up and thank you!

Kopari Coconut Shower OilKopari Coconut Shower Oil, $28

 

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Ultra-Hydrating Body Butter

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Ultra-Hydrating Body Butter, $36

 

Protect
After your skin is prepped for the day, be sure to finish with sunscreen. The FDA recommends applying a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher (even on cloudy days) before you head out and reapply as needed (usually every 2 hours). This is the key to keeping your skin healthy and happy, so don’t skimp on this part!

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, $34

 

In addition to these steps, I advise getting a professional mani and pedi done ASAP, and if the salon maintenance price is too much for you, buy the tools you need to maintain at home (read this post for tips!) for the rest of the season.

Summer Skincare Prep

 

You’re all set!

To purchase any of the items listed, visit Sephora in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

Sephora
2055 West St Suite 10
Germantown, TN 38138

Brooks Brothers is known for its classic, preppy style, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a few pieces that are slightly more trendy or outside of the box! I recently visited Brooks Brothers in Saddle Creek for a shoot, and while I did see the usual suspects (plaid chino shorts, navy blue blazers), I was pleasantly surprised by the other pieces that I saw!

Brooks Brothers Summer Style Picks

(believe it not, David’s patterned shorts are actually swim trunks!)

In addition to the classics, there were boldly patterned shorts, dreamsicle colored button ups, and a few more playful socks and swimwear trunks (I didn’t even know they carried these!). The official first day of Summer AND Father’s Day both fall on June 20th, so whether you are looking for a gift for the special dads in your life or you want to help your fella find some new updated duds, here are some Summer style picks for men from Brooks Brothers that they are sure to love.

Coastal-Print Linen-Cotton Camp Collar Short-Sleeve Shirt

Coastal-Print Linen-Cotton Camp Collar Short-Sleeve Shirt, $52

Clark Fit Linen and Cotton Chino Pants

Clark Fit Linen and Cotton Chino Pants, $96

Regent Regular-Fit Irish Linen Sport Shirt

Regent Regular-Fit Irish Linen Sport Shirt, $68

Newport 7 Floral Print Swim Trunks

Newport 7″ Floral Print Swim Trunks, $66

Wide Stripe Crew Socks

Wide Stripe Crew Socks, $25

Washed Chino 10 Bermuda Shorts

Washed Chino 10 Bermuda Shorts, $36

Regent Regular-Fit Multi-Color Fun Sport Shirt

Regent Regular-Fit Multi-Color Fun Sport Shirt, $98

Traditional Fit Sailboat Boxers

Traditional Fit Sailboat Boxers, $25

Striped Cotton Sport Coat

Striped Cotton Sport Coat, $224

Daisy Crew Socks

Daisy Crew Socks, $25

Octopus-Print Linen-Cotton Camp Collar Short-Sleeve Shirt

Octopus-Print Linen-Cotton Camp Collar Short-Sleeve Shirt, $52

Foulard Pocket Square

Foulard Pocket Square, $55

There are so many fun, colorful pieces to choose from regardless of what your personal style may be!

Brooks Brothers Summer Style Picks

They’ve also got athleisure (think casual hoodies, henleys and joggers), PLUS a cool collaborative collection with FILA! Be sure to stop in Brooks Brothers the next time you’re in Saddle Creek (they also have Women’s and Boys’); you never know what you might find!

Summer body loading in 3, 2, 1…. but no, seriously! Now that the weather is starting to warm up and Summer is literally knocking on its door, what better time to get outdoors to move your body? Going to the gym to workout is cool and all, but working out outdoors in the elements so that you can also enjoy the sun and nature can’t be beat! If you’ve been needing a boost to help you get inspired to workout, I wanted to share 3 fun ways to move your body this Summer!

3 Fun Ways To Move Your Body This Summer

Zumba Class with David Quarles, IV
David is known as the Zumba king around Memphis, so taking one of his classes is a MUST this Summer! He teaches weekly Zoom classes that can be done in the comfort of your home (and no, you don’t have to turn on your camera if you don’t want to), but now that it’s safer to gather in groups outdoors, he will be hosting in-person classes periodically this Summer! Over the weekend he partnered with Athleta in Saddle Creek for a class, so expect to see him popping up at the center over the next few months. Click here to find out when he will be teaching a class, but word to the wise: his classes are so fun that you think they’re too easy, but your body will start to FEEL IT about 30 minutes after the class is done. Burns so good!

3 Fun Ways To Move Your Body This Summer

Bike Riding at Shelby Farms
Everyone walks the trails around the lake at Shelby Farms, but did you know that you can also ride bikes? Cruising through Shelby Farms Park’s paved trails is a great way explore and get moving, and they also offer bike rentals for those that may not have their own wheels (kids included). 1 hour and 4 hour rentals are offered, so whether you need to get in a quick sweat session or want to spend time exploring the trails with family and friends, riding a bike around Shelby Farms offers a little bit of nostalgic fun!

3 Fun Ways To Move Your Body This Summer

3 Fun Ways To Move Your Body This Summer 3 Fun Ways To Move Your Body This Summer

Join A Volleyball League
Make Friends. Have Fun. Play Volleyball. That’s the motto of 901 Volleyball, Memphis’ largest volleyball community for adults. They offer monthly beach volleyball tournaments (March-October) and grass volleyball tournaments (April-November), 3 beach volleyball leagues (Spring, Summer, Fall), volleyball clinics, and socials. One of their main places to play is Railgarten, and while players must bring their own ball, it’s a fun chance to gather and get in a little a sweat!

3 Fun Ways To Move Your Body This Summer

Health is wealth, so however you choose to move your body this Summer, just make sure that you have fun with it!

 

In need of new workout fits? Stop by Athleta in Saddle Creek to get the looks that Andrea, Yamile, and CaCera are wearing!

Countdown to Mother’s Day! Mother’s Day is this upcoming Sunday (May 9th), and if you’re like me, you tend to wait til the last minute to get gifts for this holiday. It’s not that you don’t care about the special moms in your life, buuuut… you know that most retailers wait til 1-2 weeks before to put out the best gifts, and sometimes have the best deals. Ha!

Anywho, you can safely shop in-store for gifts again, and I wanted to share a roundup of gifts that any mom would love. I tend to lean towards more classic gifts for Mother’s Day; think jewelry, accessories, and other fun little gifts. Whether you are looking for the ultimate gift, or want to find a few extra goodies to add to their basket, here are some must-have mother’s day gift ideas to help you when shopping this week!

Altard State Always My Mother Mug

Always My Mother Mug, Altar’d State $20

Chicos Reversible Paisley-to-Solid Kimono

Reversible Paisley-to-Solid Kimono, Chico’s $139

Leather Effortless Tote Banana Republic

Leather Effortless Tote, Banana Republic $98

Brighton Guardian Angel Two-Tone Pendant NecklaceGuardian Angel Two-Tone Pendant Necklace, Brighton $82

Altard State The Monogram Initial Necklace

The Monogram Initial Necklace, Altar’d State $25

4x6 Filigree Photo Frame In Rose Gold Kendra Scott4×6 Filigree Photo Frame In Rose Gold, Kendra Scott $75

A Sunday Painter Glass Candle Anthropologie

A Sunday Painter Glass Candle, Anthropologie $26

Linen-Cotton Pajama Short Set Banana Republic

Linen-Cotton Pajama Short Set, Banana Republic $98.50

J. Crew Made-in-Italy Acetate Drop Earrings

Made-in-Italy Acetate Drop Earrings, J. Crew $68

Audrey Lee Year of Women Mug Anthropologie

Audrey Lee Year of Women Mug, Anthropologie $14

Brahmin Caroline Melbourne Bag

Caroline Melbourne Bag, Brahmin $345

PJ Harlow Shala Rib Knit Satin Trim Camono Robe with Satin BeltPJ Harlow Shala Rib Knit Satin Trim Kimono Robe with Satin Belt, Southern Avenue Company $89

Rifle Paper Co. Marguerite Journals Set of 3 Anthropologie

Rifle Paper Co. Marguerite Journals Set of 3, Anthropologie $15

Julie Vos Bee Stud EarringsJulie Vos Bee Stud Earrings, Southern Avenue Company $65

Talbots Floral Postcard Oblong Scarf

Floral Postcard Oblong Scarf, Talbots $60

Vera Bradley XL Campus Backpack

XL Campus Backpack, Vera Bradley $130

Pandora Thank You Mum Heart Charm

Thank You Mom Heart Charm, Pandora $45

Remember to add in a hand written note and fresh flowers!

To shop all of these looks, visit our local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

I’m so happy that it’s finally starting to warm up in Memphis, and we’ve partnered with some of our favorite local influencers to highlight Spring styles and trends from a few of our Saddle Creek retailers to help you get through the season in style.

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

The past few months have been rough, but now that the weather is pleasant and patio season is back, it feels good to be able to get dressed and (safely) hang out with family and friends.

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Refreshing your wardrobe for Spring is a must, and I don’t know about you, but we’ve been itching to update our closets with some new pieces for the season. While you don’t have to build a capsule wardrobe, I do believe that investing in pieces that are versatile and that you can get a lot of wear out of is so important, especially for Spring.

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Flirty little dresses are always a must! Perfect for date night or brunchin’ with your girlfriends!

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Don’t forget a neutral tote to carry all of your essentials!

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Every guy needs an elevated jogger set. This French Terry set has a soft, cozy feel that’s perfect for all seasons.

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Linen shirts are a warm-weather essential, but take it to the next level with a fun all-over pattern and pair with shorts in a bolder color.

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Mixed prints and versatile, lightweight pieces are must-haves for your wardrobe right now, so stop by The Shops of Saddle Creek to see what’s new!

Saddle Creek Spring 2021

Clothing:
Bianca | Dress: LOFT, Bracelets: Kendra Scott, Earrings: LOFT, Sunglasses: SEE Eyewear
Cara | Dress: Indigo, Earrings: Kendra Scott, Handbag: Vera Bradley, Sunglasses: SEE Eyewear
Carmeon | Dress: Indigo, Earrings Kendra Scott, Handbag: Indigo, Sunglasses: SEE Eyewear
David | Shirt + Shorts: J. Crew, Sunglasses: SEE Eyewear
Michael | Jogger Set + Tee: Banana Republic, Sunglasses: SEE Eyewear
*All models wore their own shoes

Mili's Flower TruckPhotography + Styling: Kim Thomas
Beautiful florals provided by Mili’s Flower Truck
Sweet Treats provided by Smallcakes Collierville
Makeup Artist: Matt Gossett

To shop all of these looks, visit our local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

Easter is this upcoming weekend, and with the weather projected to be sunny and 73 in Memphis (aka PERFECT), an uber cute dress to wear to (safely) celebrate the holiday is a must. Our retailers are finally starting to receive new Spring merchandise, and it’s becoming safer to gather in small groups again, so whether you will be celebrating the holiday at home with family, or treating it as a day for a brunch outing with your friends, I’ve rounded up 10 frocks that would be perfect to wear Easter Sunday and into the Spring and Summer season as well.

Crepe Midi Dress Banana Republic

Crepe Midi Dress, Banana Republic $139

Floral Flounce Shirtdress LOFT

Floral Flounce Shirtdress, LOFT $89.50

Tiered Ruffle-Sleeve Cotton Poplin Dress J Crew

Tiered Ruffle-Sleeve Cotton Poplin Dress, J.Crew $128

Zoey Animal Print Mini Dress

Zoey Animal Print Mini Dress, Shelby Jewel $69

Cassis Printed Chiffon Dress Free People

Cassis Printed Chiffon Dress, Free People $168

Tish Maxi Dress A Beautiful Soul

Tish Maxi Dress, A’Beautiful Soul $89.95

Utility Midi Shirt Dress BHWM

Utility Midi Shirt Dress, White House | Black Market $160

Graceland Maxi Dress Altard State

Graceland Maxi Dress, Altar’d State $79.95

Mabel Mini Dress By Anthropologie

Mabel Mini Dress, Anthropologie $98

Geo Pocket Shirtdress LOFT

Geo Pocket Shirtdress, LOFT $98

Style Tip: keep your accessories simple. Yes, to being able to get dressed and go out, but you can leave the heels at home. Grab some neutral sandals, gold jewelry (I’m partial to hoops, bracelets, and layering necklaces) and your favorite bold lipstick to accentuate your look.

Be sure to make an appointment at Nail Bar & Co. for a mani/pedi because sandal season is officially here, and stop by Sephora to refresh your makeup bag with some new Spring lippies and blushes if it’s been a while since you added something new. Most stores will also be having some type of sale this week due to the holiday, so make it a point to pop in for something cute (without having to break the bank).

 

To shop these styles, visit these local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Groundhog’s Day, and with Memphis having such unpredictable weather (hello Snowmeggedon 2021!), this means we still have quite a few more weeks of Winter ahead of us. Not to worry, however, because that means we can indulge a little while longer in all things comfy and cozy to help us get through it. Treating yourself to something a little more luxe doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be expensive. In my eyes, it’s all about the quality of the product, not the price. Besides, if we’re going to be in the house because of cold weather, don’t you want to be as cozy and comfy as possible?

cozy winter

If you’re wanting to zhoosh things up a little bit to deal with the cold, here are 6 things to help you get through Winter.

Long Sleeve Notch-Collar Pajama Set Soma

Long Sleeve Notch-Collar Pajama Set, Soma $88

Cozy PJs
Who doesn’t love a fresh new pair of pajamas? I’m personally not a fan of flannel PJS, but I do love silk, cashmere, and soft cotton blends. Cute sets are ALL the rage now, and a new set in a soft neutral (think creams, greys, tans, or blues) screams luxe.

Josie Maran Pure Argan Oil

Josie Maran Pure Argan Oil, Sephora $49

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter, Sephora $36

Facial Oil
There is nothing luxurious about dry skin, so if you don’t already use a face oil, now is the perfect time to add one in. Josie Maran makes a 100% Argan Oil that can be used from head to toe, and if you REALLY want to have skin that feels like buttah? Get the whipped body butter formula and thank me later.

Free People Eucalyptus + Siberian Pine Candle

Free People Eucalyptus + Siberian Pine Candle, $38

Candles
Candles set the mood, and in my book, you can never have too many. I believe that everyone should have 1 signature scent for their home, but there’s nothing wrong with incorporating different ones for each room in your house.

Barefoot Dreams Cozychic Throw Southern Avenue Company

Barefoot Dreams Cozychic Throw, Southern Avenue Company (prices vary)

Throw Blanket
When it comes to blankets, the softer the better. You want something that is warm and snuggly and super soft, so soft cotton blends or faux fur blankets are my favorite type to use this time of year. When you find that perfect throw blanket, nap time will be elevated.

Herbivore Botanicals Coconut Milk Bath Soak Anthropologie

Herbivore Botanicals Coconut Milk Bath Soak, Anthropologie $32

Miss Patisserie Great Ball of Fizz Gift Set Anthropologie

Miss Patisserie Great Ball of Fizz Gift Set, Anthropologie $35

Luxe Bath Products
Self-Care is more than just bubble baths, but I can almost guarantee that you will feel a million times better after soaking in a warm bath. Find products with scents that have calming notes like lavender when you’re trying to relax at night, or pick up products with grapefruit or eucalyptus scents to help invigorate you in the morning. Just make sure that whatever you choose, they make your skin feel like silk and are super hydrating.

Blissful Bamboo Sheet Set Soft Surroundings

Blissful Bamboo Sheet Set Soft Surroundings, $200

New Sheets
Brand new sheets feel ah-mazing on your skin, and while you don’t have to necessarily replicate the bedding that you find at luxe hotels, investing in a quality set of sheets could do you good. Bamboo and linen blend fabrications are very popular right now (most are breathable and cooling), but what you choose is based on preference.

A little luxe can go a long way in making your home into a cozy oasis.

To shop the pieces in this post, be sure to visit these local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

Accessories are the easiest way to update your wardrobe each season, and now that Winter is here, it’s time to find a few cold weather weather appropriate bags. There are so many fun options to choose from this season, especially when it comes to prints and textures. And thankfully, you don’t have to go broke when you want to add something new; there’s always some type of sale going on this time of year, plus a lot of stores get in new inventory as well. I’ve always been the type to carry the same bag every day, but I like to add new ones periodically. I carry a lot of stuff with me and have my camera most days, but I still try to switch it up from time to time so that I can actually enjoy my handbag collection. There’s no point in acquiring all of these pretty things if they’re never used or seen, you know?

If you’re looking to refresh your handbag collection soon, here’s a roundup of Winter bags all under $100.

We The Free Waxed Canvas Sling

Free People We The Free Waxed Canvas Sling, $60

Michael Kors Jet Set Medium Saffiano Leather Crossbody Bag

Michael Kors Jet Set Medium Saffiano Leather Crossbody Bag, $84

Chicos Jacquard Clutch BagChico’s Jacquard Clutch Bag, $60

Movement Backpack By Urban Originals in Green

Movement Backpack By Urban Originals in Green from Anthropologie, $88

Banana Republic Leather Hobo Bag

Banana Republic Leather Hobo Bag, $100

Carmen Chain Clutch

Free People Carmen Chain Clutch, $58

Talbots Croco BagTalbots Croco Bag, $55

Sela Ring-Handled Crossbody Bag By Anthropologie in Black

Sela Ring-Handled Crossbody Bag By Anthropologie in Black, $58

Brahmin Daisy Primrose BCA Collection

Brahmin Daisy Primrose BCA Collection, $95

Fp Collection Sarah Suede Crossbody

Fp Collection Sarah Suede Crossbody, $88

 

To shop the pieces in this post, be sure to visit these local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

Countdown to the Day of Looove! Valentine’s Day will definitely look different this year (dinner for 2 at home, anyone?), but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate each other and exchange a sweet gift or 2. You don’t have to blow the bank or go over the top with your gifts, but you CAN give a little luxe and comfort to your honey and make them feel special.

Don’t have a significant other but still want to celebrate? You can still find some special little happies to round up and gift to family and friends. It’s been a hard year for everyone, so who wouldn’t love to receive a Valentine like we used to as kids.

valentines day

If you’re planning to celebrate this year but need a little help in deciding what to do, here’s a roundup of Valentine’s Day gift ideas for him and her that anyone would love.

Victoria Secret Heart Sherpa Blanket

Heart Sherpa Blanket, Victoria Secret $35

Voluspa Maison Mini Glass Candle By Voluspa in Pink

Voluspa Maison Mini Glass Candle, Anthropologie $18

Paper Source Date Night In Journal

Date Night In Journal, Paper Source $18

Ari Heart Stud Earrings

Ari Heart Stud Earrings, Kendra Scott $48

Cozy Cool Girl Lounge Set, Free People, $88

Pandora Be My Quarantine Charm Set

Be My Quarantine Charm Set, Pandora $140

Banana Republic Heart Ombre Boxer

Heart Ombre Boxer, Banana Republic $15

Paper Source Fuchsia Heart Mug

Fuchsia Heart Mug, Paper Source $15

Anthropologie Lexie Slippers

Lexie Slippers, Anthropologie, $38

Brooks Brothers Honeycomb-Knit Cotton-Cashmere Half-Zip

Honeycomb-Knit Cotton-Cashmere Half-Zip, Brooks Brothers, $130

Paper Source The Perfect Man Milk Chocolate

Paper Source The Perfect Man Milk Chocolate, Paper Source $10

Banana Republic Valentine's Day Ankle Sock

Valentine’s Day Ankle Sock, Banana Republic $25

Free People One Valentina Set

Free People One Valentina Set, Free People $118

Paper Source Sweet Foods Valentine Card Set

Sweet Foods Valentine Card Set, Paper Source $15

Banana Republic Hammered Heart Double Drop Earrings

Hammered Heart Double Drop Earrings, Banana Republic $42

In addition to your gift, make sure you that you add in a personalized note with your card, and maybe their favorite candy or flowers to add that extra touch!

Happy shopping! xo

To shop all these gifts, be sure to visit these local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek.

At the beginning of the year, “Detoxing” is a huge topic of conversation, but usually the focus is on food and diet culture. While that’s normal to focus on (you do you), there are other areas that probably require more focus at this time. We are surrounded by junky drawers, closets, and even social media platforms, so why not take a little time out to detox those? If you have an extra hour to spare here and there, here are 5 areas to detox that don’t include your body.

clean home

Digital Detox
With so many people working from home now, it’s safe to say we’re using social media waaay more than what we usually do. With that being said, we may find ourselves becoming fatigued by the content that we’re intaking, so if you’re following people who’s content no longer serves you, makes you feel anxious, or just isn’t inspiring anymore, don’t feel bad about unfollowing or deleting them. Social Media should be fun, and before you feel like it’s toxic city and that you need to completely delete it or take a break, reassess who you’re following/what you’re consuming and make changes to that first.

digital detox

Clean Out Your Fridge
Seriously, when is the last time you gave your fridge a really good deep clean? It’s probably time, lol. Remove anything that is expired, old condiments that are messy, and any other items that you know you will never eat. Give it a good wipe down with a safe cleanser and hot water and then try to organize what’s left in a way that makes sense to you. If the cleaning bug has really hit you, start in your pantry next!

organized groceries

pantry

Declutter Your Car
MANY of us (self-included) treat our cars like a second home, and it’s time that we stop. There’s nothing worse than having to constantly move stuff around because people have nowhere to sit, so now’s the perfect time to get in there and clean it out! Remove anything that doesn’t belong, vacuum it out and then give it a wash (I prefer the drive-throughs, lol).

Donate Clothing You Longer Wear
Getting rid of clothing that we no longer wear or want is probably one of the hardest things for people to do, but it’s so necessary. For one, it will make getting dressed so much easier because you can actually see what’s in there. Secondly, getting rid of the pieces that don’t work makes room for the pieces that will! You have to treat it like ripping off a band-aid (if you think too long about a piece you’re less likely to get rid of it), but once it’s done you will feel so much better.

closet

Cancel unnecessary subscriptions
If you have a gym membership that you’ve never used but pay for monthly, raise your hand! Guys, we are wasting SO much money holding on to these subscriptions that we will never use, no matter what we tell ourselves every day. Take some time to go through your bank statements to review the subscriptions that you currently have, and cancel any that you don’t really use or aren’t necessarily helping you. Stop giving money away!

netflix

There are so many areas that we can work on and get in order, but these are just a start (and can be knocked out in a weekend)!