Category: Favorite Things

Simple but stylish, these bandanas can add some flare while keeping you safe.

2. INTO THE AM Seamless Face Cover

This face cover can be pulled down to act like a scarf when you don’t need it, and pulled up easily when you need full coverage.

3. RIAH Arrow Face Mask

These colorful arrows can add a bit of personality to your everyday.

3. Starry Sky Pattern Face Cover

These masks will add a bit of magic whenever you wear them.

4. Achiou Neck Gaiter Face Scarf

This face scarf can be a comfortable alternative to masks that hang on the ears.

5. RIAH Floral Burgundy Face Mask

This vintage pattern can add a nice touch to any outfit.

6. Yiiza Cute Heart Face Mask

Inspired by Commes Des Garçon’s iconic heart clothing, these masks add a thoughtful touch while remaining simple.

7. Floral Face Mask

This fun floral mask is sure to brighten your day.

8. Popfunk Blue Tie Dye Mask

This beautiful tye dye mask adds a splash of color while remaining light enough to blend with any outfit.

9. Pink Cotton Mask With Carbon Filter

This bright mask is not just bold and fun; it’s also equipped with a changeable filter for extra protection.

July 1, 2020July 1, 2020

9 Accessories For Plant Lovers

CARRIE ANN CONVERSATIONS | 9 Plant Accessories

Whether you’ve been working with plants your whole life or have just decided to add a plant to your home, you know that houseplants have so much to offer us. Tending to plants can be a great hobby and even, for some, a form of meditation.

Live plants contain multitudes of benefits; they’re living art, transforming our homes with their colors and vibrance. They can improve our air quality, cleanse our spaces and even show us, over and over again, the rewards that can grow from the attentiveness and intentionality that comes from caring for plants each day.

There’s no shortage of ways to get more involved in planting as a hobby but here are a few items that can help you turn your home into your personal oasis.

Hydroponic Bulb Planter

If you’ve ever wanted to experiment with plant cuttings or just want a stylish new piece, this hydroponic planter is the perfect addition to any space.

Mandala Style Flower Ceramic Planters

These beautiful planters bring a bit more color and style to an already vibrant collection.

Hand-Blown Glass Watering Globes

Both beautiful and practical, this hydroponic bulb can ensure your plants get watered while you’re out of town or too busy to keep a watering schedule.

Hanging Flower Bud Vases

If you’re not confident with live plants you can still have a touch of florals in your home with these flower bud vases.

Glass Plant Mister

This mister will look at home on any shelf while making sure your plants stay hydrated.

Air Plant Frame Holder

Air plants are among the easiest plants to tend to, and this holder will do a great job of displaying them if you’re looking for a starter plant.

DIY Hanging Orb Terarriums

Designing and assembling your own terrarium can be a great use of an afternoon or an activity to do with friends and family, and they’re great to display in windows.

Easy-Grow LED Planter

This display isn’t just aesthetically pleasing, it also makes sure your plants have access to enough light even in dimmer settings.

Small Hanging Planter Set

June 24, 2020June 24, 2020

These planters are easy to fill, easy to install and can line your walls with beautiful green life.

9 Essentials to Start Letter Writing as a Hobby

CARRIE ANN CONVERSATIONS | Letter Writing Essentials

As we continue to live with limited socialization, there has never been a better time to take up written correspondence as a way to keep in touch. Letter writing offers us so many things at once: a more thoughtful and tactile form of communication, a form of gift-giving that shows someone time was spent in thinking of them, a physical memory one can keep for years, and even an art form. Taking the time to sit down and write to a loved one can be meditative as well as a thoughtful gesture, and that moment of peace can be a blessing for all of us right now.

Here are a few tools that can help make letter writing more of a part of your everyday life.

MUJI Stationery Set

This pen case comes with everything you need to start taking pleasure in writing. This coordinated kit contains high quality pencils, pens, sticky notes, and an eraser.

Pretty Simple Lettering: Modern Calligraphy & Hand Lettering for Beginners

If you’re looking to turn letter-writing into more of a creative outlet, this book on calligraphy is a great place to start.

PILOT Varsity Disposable Fountain Pens

These pens offer the grace, elegance and tradition of fountain pens while still being affordable and manageable.

American Greetings Pastel Stationery

This simple, lovely stationery will keep you motivated to use it to send letters to your loved ones.

Big Capacity Stationery Pen Pouch

Staying organized with your supplies allows you clarity and calm as you write. This large capacity pen pouch will give you easy access to everything you need when it’s time to start a correspondence.

Purple Agate Note Cards and Envelopes

These beautiful notecards will brighten the day of anyone who receives them.

Premium Gel Ink Ball Point Pen

These smooth, high-quality gel pens will make writing a pleasure and a joy.

Marbrasse Wooden Desk Organizer

This organizer can help to keep all your materials in order while helping to establish an organized space to do writing.

Mont Marte Calligraphy Set

June 17, 2020June 17, 2020

This starter kit can enable you to explore the creative aspects of writing, encouraging you to invest time and attention into writing in new ways.

11 Home Spa Accessories To Elevate Your Self Care

Carrie Ann Conversations | Spa Day Accessories

There are so many different elements that make up successful self care. Some of these involve making healthy choices, exercising proper boundaries and making sure to get proper rest, but sometimes self care can be as simple as giving ourselves a chance to feel special and cared for. Giving ourselves a soothing bath or a facial treatment may not always be the answer but it can be a great way to send ourselves a message that we deserve to be nurtured and loved.

Here are a few products to help make your next self care spa day a bit more special, even if it’s just an hour to yourself in the bath.

Naked Reverie Natural Organic Bath Bombs

Many bath bombs on the market contain harsh chemicals and dyes that can cause damage to sensitive areas and cause infection. Naked Reverie bath bombs are fair trade, sustainably sourced, and will provide you with soothing relaxation without risk of harm or infection.

Rose Quartz Facial Roller

In addition to being composed of rose quartz, a crystal associated with self love, this cool stone roller can reduce facial inflammation, soothe tired skin and reduce facial tension.

Herbivore Botanicals All Natural Coconut Milk Bath Soak

This coconut and vanilla bath soak will leave skin soft, has a soft soothing scent and can even help to reduce inflammation.

Enviromedica Magnetic Clay Natural Detox Bath

This detoxifying clay gives you the ability to bring a rejuvenating mud bath into your own home, drawing out toxins and leaving your body clean and refreshed.

Provence Beauty Pink Himalayan Bath Salt with Lavender

Soothing lavender and purifying Himilayan salt combine to create a complex, rich bath that will leave you feeling refreshed and cleansed.

Ritual Baths: Be Your Own Healer by Deborah Hanekamp

This gorgeous guide not only provides inspiration for an avid bath-lover but can help us see the ways baths can be used as a form of meditation and spiritual healing.

Danielle Miracle Nourishing Foot Mask

It can be easy to neglect our feet during our self-care routines, even though we depend on them for so much. This special mask can nourish and soften dry and calloused feet while also restoring and detoxifying them.

SALBAKOS Turkish Cotton Oversized Bath Sheet

This oversized bath sheet is the perfect way to continue the self love after a long bath or even a quick shower, emphasizing softness and care as it dries.

Pink Sands by Yankee Candle

The scents of bright citrus and drifting florals will make any space feel a bit more like paradise.

Himalayan Glow Natural Salt Lamp

June 3, 2020April 20, 2021

Place this lamp in your bathroom to cast a warm glow over your bath or keep it in any space that you’d like to add soothing energy to.

Carrie Ann Inaba’s Favorite Books About Dancing

I’ve been in love with dance for most of my life; it’s a language of the body, one that speaks to us on a deeper level. It’s physical, emotional, intuitive and there’s no art form quite like it. Learning about dance isn’t just about practicing the technical movements, it’s about studying the culture of different styles, the pioneers who took the art form and made it their own. Reading about dance always makes me feel closer to one of my favorite things in the world; here are a few books I’d recommend to anyone who wants to learn a bit more about dance.

Let’s Dance by Paul Bottomer

Let’s Dance is a great reference guide for anyone who wants to learn more about Latin and Ballroom dancing. With an abundance of information about all forms of Latin and Ballroom, this book makes a great foundational resource for anyone with a passion for dance.

A Very Young Dancer by Jill Krementz

This was the first book I ever had as a young dancer. It’s both beautiful and inspiring, following a ten year old ballerina through her routine as she plays Clara in The Nutcracker.

Fosse by Sam Wasson

Fosse is my favorite choreographer of all time; he was such a brilliant artist. After I saw All That Jazz I was fascinated and had to learn everything I could about him. This book is a great resource for understanding what made Bob Fosse’s work so remarkable.

Meredith Monk (Art + Performance) by Deborah Jowitt

Meredith Monk is one of my favorite artists of all time, a true visionary. I was first introduced to her while I was studying World Arts and Culture at UCLA. She’s a fascinating artist, and her relationship with dance is so deep and compelling. I came to understand my own love of dance through understanding Meredith Monk’s work; she’s an amazing creator and if you’re interested in dance it’s worth it to learn more about her.

Time and the Dancing Image by Deborah Jowitt

When I went back to school at 30 years old after stepping away from education for my dance career, Time and the Dancing Image was one of the first texts I has to study. This book is a great retrospective of dance, walking readers through the movement of dance trends over time and chronicling all the modern choreographers. It’s a great book to have on your shelf whether you’re a dance educator, historian, or simply someone who loves dance and wants to know more about its history and evolution.

This Monday, June 1st marked the 15th anniversary of Dancing With The Stars. We’re so thankful to have been a part of the lives of all those who love Dancing With The Stars, our DWTS family, for so long. We are planning on returning this fall, but we have to see how things go. There is a lot to be considered and we need to be sure we can do it safely. All I know is that I am looking forward to an innovative and exciting Season 29 of Dancing with the Stars to experience with all of you. We all need a little DWTS magic right about now!

What are some of your favorite books about dance? Tell me in the comments below or tag @carrieannconversations on Instagram!

May 27, 2020May 27, 2020

8 Coffee Table Books To Read And Enjoy

One of my favorite ways to put more of my personality to a space is in the books I choose to display. Coffee table books can provide a lot of character to a space, lend new topics for conversations, entertain guests or simply provide some fresh inspiration on a slow afternoon. Books are magical in their own way and having them around always makes me feel supported; to me, the books I keep are a representation of all the knowledge and wisdom that exists around us at all times.

Having a coffee table book out can serve as a powerful visual reminder of the places we want to visit, a person we find inspiring, or a story that brings us comfort. Here are a few books that are as inspiring as they are beautiful, ready to whisk you away to new places or make you feel comfier at home.

Pantone: The Twentieth Century in Color by Leatrice Eiseman

Color is such a crucial dimension in our lives, weaving different energy and meanings through all of our environments. This Pantone history of color can give us a new way to think about the role color has played in our collective history, and encourage us to think about the colors we want to incorporate in our own spaces.

The Japanese Garden by Sophie Walker

This peaceful read from Sophie Walker pairs breathtaking photography with thoughtful essays about Japanese gardens, and the philosophy behind them, ranging from ancient Shinto shrines to contemporary Zen designs. This book is a great way to feel more connected to nature and learn some important lessons from Eastern traditions.

The Astrology of You and Me: How to Understand and Improve Every Relationship in Your Life by Gary Goldschneider

Whether you’re a casual fan of astrology or an expert on the theory, The Astrology of You and Me can help us to be more thoughtful about our dynamics with others, and the strength in recognizing the differences in each others’ perspectives.

1,000 Places to See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz

The most readily available cure for feelings of stagnancy is our own imaginations. Even if we’re not able to fly away to a destination this weekend, familiarizing ourselves with the wonders the world has to offer, and fantasizing about the day well get to visit them, is a great gift to give ourselves on a rainy day.

The Year of Cozy: 125 Recipes, Crafts, and Other Homemade Adventures by Adrianna Adarme

This book serves as an easy reminder that we can daily make choices that advocate for our joy, happiness and comfort. The Year Of Cozy has welcoming activities and recipes that are simple and easy to follow, making comfort at home more achievable than ever.

The Museum of Broken Relationships by Olinka Vistica

Written in a quiet, introspective tone, the stories in this book are all centered around the artifacts left behind after breakups and serve as a compelling reminder of how similar our experiences are, and how much love means to all of us.

The New Glamour: Interiors with Star Quality by Jeff Andrews

Jeff Andrews, designer to stars like Kourtney Kardashian and Kaley Cuoco, shares the philosophies behind the incredible spaces he creates in this gorgeous book. This book is an invitation to consider what glamour means to each of us, and a chance to gain a new perspective on the ways we curate our own homes.

Leaf Supply: A Guide to Keeping Happy House Plants Hardcover by Lauren Camilleri

Having plants around can boost our moods and the quality of our air, but the intentionality that goes into tending plants can have its own benefits. This thoughtful book allows us to consider the art of caring for live plants and explains planting secrets you might never have heard, all while treating us to gorgeous images of healthy green life.

Julie Taymor: Playing with Fire by Eileen Blumenthal and Julie Taymor

May 20, 2020February 10, 2021

I’ve always been fascinated by puppets, and Julie Taymor’s work is nothing short of magical to me. This book contains examples of her amazing visual style, from her film Titus to her iconic work on the Broadway production of Lion King.

9 Items To Pamper Your Pets

If you have pets, you understand that the relationship between our animals and ourselves is a deeply reciprocal one. We give them a home and in return they fill our lives with the purest form of love and comfort. One of the richest parts of pet ownership is finding new ways to take care of our pets and enrich their lives. As a pet owner, one of my favorite experiences is bringing home something new that I know my pets are going to love, or something that I know will make it easier for me to care for them. Here are some products that can improve any pet’s life, helping to make their lives happier and healthier.

Calming Shag Donut Cuddler

This soft, furry bed with an imprint in the middle will help even the highest-strung dog settle down for peace and rest.

Rescue Remedy Stress Relief Drops

These drops, created by Bach Flower Remedies specifically for animals, can help soothe frayed nerves and make stressful events like vet visits or nail trimmings easier on our pets. This non-drowsy, homeopathic formula is great for adding a little peace and calm to your animal’s day.

Pretty Litter

A must-have for cat owners, Pretty Litter comes in a cheap monthly subscription that ships straight to your door. This litter is lightweight, all but eliminates odor, and even has color-changing diagnostics so you can keep an eye on your cat’s health.

Buy now at Pretty Litter

Veken Pet Fountain

Whether your pets have mobility issues, tend to knock bowls of water over or you’d simply like them to have a fresher source for water, this fountain is the perfect addition to any household with animals. It provides elevation to avoid neck strain, includes a filter that keeps your pet’s water from going stale, and allows you to monitor water intake.

Catnip-Infused Poptart Toys

A perfect treat for even older or more sedentary cats, this catnip-infused toy is made with soft felt in soothing colors.

Buy now on Etsy

Wild One Poop Bag Carrier

This sleek, cheap carrier attaches easily to leashes and totes, making it the perfect stylish companion for any walk.

Buy now a t Wild One

Furminator Undercoat Deshedder

Warmer months can be an uncomfortable time for pets with thicker coats, leading to excess shedding and potential overheating. The Furminator, which comes in a variety of sizes for cats and dogs, is a great tool for freeing your animals from top-layer fur while clearing out the deeper, thicker undercoat as well.

Foldable Pet Steps

If you have an older pet or one with limited mobility, they might struggle to join you on a couch or bed, requiring assistance and supervision. A set of easily stored pet stairs can help pets retain autonomy while making their daily routine easier on their limbs and joints.

Rechargeable Cat Laser Pointer

Laser pointers are a great way to keep your cat entertained even if you’re low on energy. Lasers can stimulate a cat’s environment, help them use their hunting instincts and keep them feeling enriched and energetic. This pointer doesn’t require specific batteries to function, instead conveniently charging via USB.