The Perfect Montrose Houston Weekend

Head to The Dunlavy for Montrose Houston Brunch

Houston is one of those energized cities that always has so much going on, it can almost be intimidating. I follow a few blogs and social media accounts (and downtown Houston’s weekly newsletters) to keep up-to-date with everything happening, but I’ve also been around the Montrose block long enough to create a little weekend itinerary myself.

Here is my perfect Montrose weekend itinerary:

Start with any of these Montrose coffee shops, but if you’re starting at Encore Montrose, a quick walk next-door to Black Hole coffee is an obvious choice. Quaint, laid-back vibe with awesome coffee and people watching.

I’m personally a big fan of brunch, and no weekend is complete without mimosas and brunch. Before brunch, I recommend taking advantage of one of Houston’s amazing parks on a nice day.

I love Buffalo Bayou, because it’s centrally located with easy parking to meet up with friends and of course, it’s dog and stroller-friendly. Then head over to Dunlavy for a casual brunch amongst a handful of sparkling chandeliers, that make for a great photo opp as well. It’s a pretty casual spot (order at the counter) on the weekends, so it’s no problem to come in yoga/running clothes — even if you’re sweaty and in a hat (my usual weekend outfit). They have smoothies and “real food” as well as indoor and outdoor seating, all with beautiful park views.

Empire Cafe is probably my second choice for a true-Montrose brunch, which is also counter service and incredibly popular. Most of the seating is outdoors, but the reason these two top my brunch list is they are both in great locations, so you can either walk around the park (while at Dunlavy) or around some fun and eclectic shops on Westheimer, along with hitting up one of my favorite Montrose Houston murals along the way.

Mid-day my vote is to take a few hours and hang by the pool at Encore Montrose, which overlooks 59 (but obviously you have to live here or know someone who does for that). The crowd here is always fun, it’s easy to invite a friend or two over and it’s never (at least not yet) out of control. Bring some rosé from your apartment and bask in the sun for a few hours.

Another way to spend the afternoon in Montrose is galavanting around the

Iced Coffee After a Run at Buffalo Bayou Park

Houston Museum District, which is only a few miles from our Montrose apartments, and highly regarded around the nation. There are 19 museums (that’s seriously a lot) in 4 walkable zones and some changing exhibits and nightly events that are well worth the visit.

If you’re looking for a low-key evening in Montrose, Light Years Wine Shop is literally a cute little house/turned business I stumbled upon a few weeks ago. It has an incredible local vibe, deserving of the Montrose neighborhood address and they offer tastings every Friday from 5-8p, though I’d recommend visiting anytime. You can rent bikes from one of Houston’s cycle stations, take your own or walk.

I don’t do clubs or intense nightlife spots, but I do enjoy an early evening at nearby Goodnight Charlie’s for LIVE music or Bar Boheme to meet friends, which has a laid back vibe and a ton of picnic tables out back.

Many have told me Bacco Wine Garden is up my alley, and although I haven’t been yet, I thought I should add it to this Montrose list based on the number of recommendations I’ve received. Per my preference, these are all laid back joints, but you can hit up a few “clubs” in Montrose if that’s more your speed.

This is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing what I love about this unique neighborhood in Houston. These luxury Montrose apartments are currently offering a few leasing specials on all their remaining floor plans, like a few weeks free rent. Stop by for a quick tour and tell them Jayme (or The Blonde Side) sent you! There aren’t many apartments left, so hurry and my pro tip – ask for the Champagne Tour.

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Houston Dentist — Dentistry of the Oaks

Houston Dentist Love – Dentistry of the Oaks (Houston Heights)

If someone says they love going to the dentist, that’s probably your number 1 sign they are lying. Let’s be real – going to the dentist is rarely fun, except for the fact your teeth come out extra clean, which I’ve read is the best time to use your at-home teeth whitener.

But I’m getting off topic.

I want to start by sharing that I recently went to Dentistry of the Oaks, located in the Garden Oaks neighborhood not far from the Houston Heights, and it was a much needed visit. I got exceptional treatment and learned a lot – especially about why skipping the dentist for a few years was a terrible idea. Like a lot of things I do in life…

I know I’m not alone not having dental insurance. And I haven’t for probably five or six years. I mistakenly thought if I was brushing regularly and flossing (which I actually do, thank you very much), that I wouldn’t need a dentist, but when Dr. Stuchlik did my x-rays, it was clear I was very much wrong.

What I realized was the dentist is not (or should not be) optional for any of us. We spend so much time getting our nails done or putting filters on our photos, but we’re not as worried about our smiles that people see everyday? Seems weird, right?

Going to the dentist is still a very valid and integral part of your health. Heart disease, oral cancer, nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, bad breath and more are just a few things you put at the risk of going unnoticed by skipping that “optional” dentist appointment. Like most parts of our body, your teeth/gums/tongue/etc. all need to have a professional monitor them from time to time, if not twice a year, definitely annually.

You can also read this SELF article on why you shouldn’t skip the dentist.

Another thing I learned was skipping regular dental visits does not actually save you money (and not having dental insurance because of cost is one of the top reasons people like me skip it all together)! Seriously, saving $100 on a cleaning (or less) is nothing compared to having multiple cavities filled or major dental work. Not only was I not having my teeth properly monitored for new cavities, I had some old fillings that needed replaced, which may not have been needed had I stayed on top of regular appointments.

Another thing to consider is not having everything done if you just need a checkup. Sure x-rays are advised at least once a year, but according to this NY Times article, “Adults without apparent dental problems do not need dental X-rays of any kind every year, the A.D.A. says.” If you go to a Houston dentist you trust, like Dr. Stuchlik and Dr. Wendt, they won’t try to pull one over on you for exams and tests that aren’t needed.

Thanks for coming to my TED Talk about not skipping the dentist. And again, I highly recommend this dentist office in Houston.

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Everything You Need For A Cozy Night In

Everything you need for a cozy night in

It’s certainly no secret I’m a home body. My travel schedule is fairly hectic, so when I have a few days in Houston, I tend to be extremely lazy and take full advantage of my Houston apartment. So if there’s one thing I’m well-versed in, it’s how to have the most perfect and cozy night in.

Here are a few products and tips to make the perfect cozy night in (invite girlfriends over to hang, spend it by yourself, let your pup hang out for some quality time or whatever works best for you):

  1. Have something to do. Obviously I’m not talking about a tedious home project or finishing up an excel spreadsheet, but if that’s your thing, have at it. For me, sometimes that’s unloading my piled-up DVR from extensive traveling. Sometimes that’s reading, or most of the time, it’s a Lifetime TV Movie or a fresh episode of Dateline. (I’m trying to make #DatelineandWine a thing – anyone else obsessed?)
  2. Candles x Candles x Candles. I am obsessed with candles,

    Montrose Apartments are perfect for a cozy night in

    especially all the ones from Anthropologie. I used to be one of those people who hoarded my “good candles” for special occasions and I noticed every time I moved, I’d have a crap ton of candles and what’s more special than a cozy night in for yourself? Now I have candles going 24/7. Along with candles, I’m a big fan of these super affordable essential oils, but not in the crazy lady kind of way. I put a few drops on my pillow on the couch or on a neck wrap and try to pretend like I’m at the spa!

  3. Good wine. Obviously you don’t need to drink for a cozy night, but I love a good Friday night on the couch, drinking a glass of rosé and of course, a new episode of Dateline. I am fully aware how disturbing this Dateline obsession can sound to some of you.  I also love this Sparkling Margarita recipe if tequila and bubbles are more your speed.
  4. Turning my phone off. Even a quick power down for 20-30 minutes or to get through a TV show uninterrupted, which gives my phone a break, but my mind as well.
  5. Slippers + PJs. Another guilty pleasure of mine are ultra-comfy pajamas and my Ugg slippers. To me, these slippers are well worth the investment, but obviously any comfy slippers will work. Pajama sets like this one from Madewell are also my jam. Something about dressing up for a cozy night in without all the hair and makeup effort makes staying in all the more enjoyable. This is another PJ set I love.
  6. Face mask(s) for the win. There are literally millions to choose from, but this Vitamin C face mask gives my skin a glow it desperately needs. I also love this Burt’s Bees Detoxifying Sheet Mask, which is perfect for a night in, but also super easy to travel with, which is why I always have a few on hand. Just like my body needs a cozy and casual night in to reboot, at the end of the week my skin needs a little boost too, and face masks definitely help with dull skin.
  7. Cozy apartment. Of course picking a cozy Houston apartment is helpful in this too! Although I’m smack-dab in the Montrose neighborhood, my apartment itself is serene and quiet. I have a courtyard view and on a nice night, I leave my patio door open for a breeze (let’s be honest – this is a rarity in Houston). Our Montrose apartments also just got a Stockwell machine, which is one floor below me and you use an app to grab little things you may have forgotten, like an entire case of La Croix if you need a mixer!).

*This post contains affiliate links, and you can shop some of my favorite stores here.

This is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing the things I love about living in Houston, particular the Montrose area. I have lived in these brand-new luxury Montrose apartments for about 7 months and am absolutely loving this complex and being central to so many fun things like these Montrose wall murals. If you’re looking for a new Montrose apartment, be sure to add Encore Montrose to your list of tours and mention me (Jayme or The Blonde Side) for an extra incentive, and definitely ask for the Champagne Tour!

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Montrose Wall Murals To Check Out

Montrose Coffee Shops

Houston’s art scene is dynamic. And I’m not just talking about the local artists here or the actual Museum District (which is walking distance from me at Encore Montrose) boasting some of the best museums in the nation.

If you’ve been on Instagram at all in recent years, you know there are wall murals abounding in every corner of Houston, and Montrose is no different.

Here are some of my personal favorite Montrose murals to check out:

  • Pictured above is The “Paint Drip Wall,” which is one of the most well known and fun walls in all of Houston, located at Biscuit Home (1435 Westheimer). This is right in the midst of all that Westheimer/Montrose has to offer so grab a coffee or spend a few lovely hours at brunch and then hit up this wall on a sunny day and you’ve got yourself a heavily liked Instagram pic!
  • Of course we can’t skip the mural that screams Montrose, located at Revelry on
    Richmond (1613 Richmond Ave), less than a mile from our amazing Montrose apartments. Revelry also has a fun little bar vibe and above average bar food – it’s been a favorite of mine for years and also makes a good spot to watch the game.
  • The Rose wall, outside of STRETCH Studio in Montrose (2205 Montrose). Though I’ve never been to STRETCH, the concept and idea fascinates me, so I guess I should probably try that spot out (and then maybe snap a selfie in my favorite workout apparel afterwards for proof that I actually did it).
  • Check out this fun and colorful graffiti wall, in the parking lot of Pavement Clothing

    Photo courtesy: CarrieColbert.com

    (1657 Westheimer). I didn’t know this wall existed, until I saw my friend Carrie post about it (I’ve linked her entire Houston mural guide below, it’s a must-see).

Also, be sure to check out my friend Carrie’s comprehensive Houston mural guide, which she keeps up-to-date and takes the most adorable and glamorous pictures. Even if you’re not a blogger, I promise a fun way to spend a beautiful afternoon in Houston is grabbing your bestie and hitting up a bunch of these murals for some photos. It’s a great way to learn the city or revisit some of your favorite neighborhoods.

This blog post is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, where I share first-hand accounts of what I love about living at this luxury Montrose apartment as well as my favorite things in the neighborhood, like these Montrose coffee shops.

If you’re looking for a new Montrose apartment, add Encore Montrose to your list and mention my name (Jayme or The Blonde Side) for an extra little incentive (plus it helps me). Check out the A7 (1 bed, 1 bath) and B4 (2 bed, 2 bath) floor plans, which have the best deals right now.

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6 Spots to Visit in Montrose This Month

Photo Credit: Hangry Houstonian

There are so many openings and fun things going on in Montrose right now. I need to get out more, but here are a few of my favorite Montrose picks for places to see and visit right now. If you have any others, leave a comment and I’ll add them to my Montrose bucket list! And the best part of living at Encore Montrose is I’m less than 2 miles from all these great spots! 

Magical Dessert Bar – If you’ve spent any time on Instagram, you’ve already drooled over this Unicorn goodness. When it opened a few weeks ago, there was literally a 4-hour wait. That seems crazy to consume a crapload of calories, but it’s a pretty unique concept and national press is going crazy over this place. The photo is from my friend Hangry Houstonian – I could never be patient enough to snap a good photo before indulging, so I’m sharing hers. Location: 907 Westheimer.

Vibrant – This is another new’ish Houston concept. This is a happy place for your daily dining ritual, open from 7-3 and dinner from 5-10. It’s a super healthy spot and if you go for breakfast, you cannot skip out on the Coconut Chia Pudding, because it’s also drool worthy. They also have a terrific array of cocktails, including sugar free cocktails using seasonal ingredients. I love a place where drinking doesn’t leave a massive hangover or any lasting guilt. Location: 1931 Fairview.

Present Company – Not new, but it’s the perfect patio to hit before

Patio Vibes at Present Company (Photo Cred: Present Company Instagram)

that Houston weather gets nearly intolerable. Looking for Monday plans? Check out their all-day Happy Hour every Monday from 3p – Midnight and check out their Bacon & Brussels Pizza paired alongside an Instagram-worthy cocktail. Location: 1318 Westheimer.

Love Buzz Pizza Pub – If you’re a pizza lover, you’ll love this cheesy spot. Granted, it’s not new either, but it’s worth a visit or revisit if it’s been a while. Night owls can rejoice because they’re open until 2a every.single.night. That seems crazy to me since I go to bed at 9p, but for those who stay up late, you’ll love this spot with major Montrose vibes. Plus, they run great deals on Wednesday nights like free slices with any mixed drink purchase (9p-1a). Location: 408 Westheimer.

Goodnight Charlie’s – If you love a honky tonk good time (and you should because you live in Houston!), then don’t miss this spot boasting live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. They also have a killer happy hour Tuesday – Sunday from 4-7p and come hungry because their tacos are worth all the calories followed by an ice cold beer. Location: 2531 Kuester St.

Cafe Bustelo – This adorable pop-up coffee shop in Montrose is too cute and packs a rich Latin coffee punch on top of it all. I’m not sure how long it’ll be around (rumors are May 25th, but that often changes due to popularity) and there’s usually a line, but the place is too cute to miss and the rooftop coffee sipping spot is a great way to kick off the day. It’s bright  yellow and you’ll see the line, so it’s hard to miss. Location: 3615 Montrose.

Also check out these 5 Montrose Hidden Gems or these local expert’s favorite spots for other Houston Montrose spots worth checking out.

This blog post is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing about the things I love about this Houston eclectic neighborhood and why I love my Montrose luxury apartment. There are a few current leasing specials going on right now (but not for long) — stop by 4508 Graustark St. for a quick tour and be sure to mention me (Jayme or The Blonde Side) and maybe we’ll be neighbors soon. You’ll absolutely love the pool that overlooks 59 and the Montrose location that puts you in the middle of so many hotspots in town.

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Win $1,000 to ACQUA MedSpa

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ACQUA MedSpa Giveaway

I am currently running one of the biggest contests e-v-e-r on Instagram right now. Head to my Instagram post to officially enter, and be sure to leave a comment on this blog post for a bonus entry.

 

Here’s what you could win: 

I’ve partnered with the amazing babes at ACQUA MedSpa to give one of you $1000 towards one of the following treatments (yes, it covers the full treatment + maybe even more!): CoolSculpting, Laser Hair Removal, HydraFacials (that’s enough for a hydrafacial for you + 5 friends!), Microneedling or Fractora. 

 

Of course, if you don’t win, you can still mention me and get 20% off any full-price service, as well as any of their products. They use the Skinceuticals line, which is one of my favorites and hitting up ACQUA in Webster is probably the best way to restock all your skincare products. And if you don’t know what you need (don’t worry, I never do either), the gals there will help you understand your skin and what you could benefit most from.

 

They are also running amazing April specials to get you ready for summer. Here’s a peak at a few of their Houston MedSpa specials:

 

April is CoolSculpting month, so all month long you’ll get 15% off the service (actually, if you mention Jayme or The Blonde Side you’ll get an even better deal of 20% off). It takes about 30-90 days to see results, so I recommend if it’s something you’re interested in, book your FREE consultation ASAP. 

 

This month they are also offering “Buy 2 syringes, get $100 off the 3rd” and that goes for any filler product. I’ve only used Braidee for my injections in the past, but I know all the gals at ACQUA and can vouch for their work – any would be great to visit! 

 

A brand-new service this month is the “Mini Lip,” which is ideal for those first-timers or those looking for a tiny add-on. Here you’ll get ½ syringe for $325, and they’ll make sure you see beautiful results in no time flat!

 

Thanks for reading – don’t forget to leave a comment below for those bonus entries to win $1,000 towards any of the services mentioned above. Contest ends April 8that 12p CST so good luck!

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My 2019 BMW X5 Car Buying Experience at BMW West

2019 BMW X5 from BMW of West Houston

In December I treated myself to a new car – the 2019 BMW X5. Prior to that, I had a 2016 X5 (the hybrid version) and wanted a sexier and faster car, so when the new body style of the popular SUV came out, I was on it.

Thanks to my friends at BMW of West Houston, I was able to make a decision on a new car that fit my needs. There’s so much chatter of when exactly is the best time to buy a new car – is it the end of year, beginning of year, etc? That’s what I love about the team at BMW West – they talked me through the pros and cons of purchasing one of the 2018 vehicles on the lot that had a ton of year-end incentives, or ordering my own custom 2019 and getting the new body style and features.

Here’s why I ordered a new 2019 vs. a 2018 on the lot: basically everything that was on the lot had all kinds of features I didn’t necessarily want or need. Sure, the incentives were great to get the price down, but I didn’t need things like head’s up display or twice the engine size. Charles Cannon at BMW West worked through the numbers with me, and showed me that if I ordered a brand-new car and only picked the features that were important to me, I could get it at the same cost, possibly even less. And boom – have the new body style too.

As a female, there’s definitely a stereotype that car buying can be difficult, but I think it’s the

BMW of West Houston Car Buying Experience

process in general. I needed someone to sit down with me (and I’m talking many hours, multiple days, different people explaining it to me a few different ways, time to process the information and fact check it with others) to understand my trade-in from my 2016 lease and what my payments would look like and if I should lease again or buy. I’ve found that working with a dealership you trust is the key. I even went so far as to price out my “dream car” at a few other local BMW dealerships, because I wanted to make sure I was comparing apples to apples.

I absolutely love my X5 – I got the M Sport package in Carbon Black (it is black, but looks almost navy in sunlight) and I love the sporty look. It has all the features I need and fits me perfectly.

Here’s the breakdown of my 2019 X5 from BMW West:

xDRIVE40i

  • 335-HP 3.0L TwinPower Turbo I6 Engine
  • xDrive All-Wheel Drive
  • Adaptive LED Headlights
  • 10-Speaker HiFi Sound System
  • Apple CarPlay™
  • Dual 12.3″ Digital Displays
  • Panoramic Moonroof
  • Active Driving Assistant
  • 0-60 MPH: 5.3s

If you’re on the hunt for a new car, definitely take your time researching models and reviews online and ask around. I am a big fan of BMW of West Houston and if you mention me during your visit or test drive, you’ll get a better deal. You can also leave a comment or shoot me a message if you want my tips on my favorite Client Advisors there. I recommend you ask for Charles Cannon – he’s the New Car Sales Manager and knows every car on the lot inside and out.

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5 Reasons I Love Hiatus Spa

5 Reasons to Love Hiatus Spa + Retreat in Tanglewood

I’ve been an H-Circle member at Hiatus Spa + Retreat for almost two years, and it’s one of the greatest uses of my money and a perfect excuse to treat myself (each month!).

Sometimes we find ourselves in a money crunch, but I wanted to share 5 reasons I love Hiatus Spa + Retreat and why I think it’s a good use of my (usually limited) income.

Reasons to Love Hiatus:

  1. The monthly membership ($69/month) ensures that no matter what happens in the month, I always leave room for a little me-time and well-deserved pampering. I usually get a massage or facial, and multiple studies show taking time for yourself is actually a really, really good thing.
  2. Also, there is definitely an added bonus of seeing the same esthetician or massage therapist each month as they’ll get to know your daily routine, workouts, body tendencies and skin changes on a regular basis. I’ve found seeing the same people means I get much more personalized and effective services with lasting benefits.
  3. Ronald Slaughter. He recently started at Hiatus (the Tanglewood spa location) and he is one of the best massage therapists I’ve ever had. I also feel like his name was made for this profession. He’s great at stretching and deep tissue massages, which is great for athletes and those who workout a lot. I’m sure he can do a more relaxing massage if that’s your preference, but I guarantee you’ll be sore in a good way after a Slaughter Session!
  4. The Aveda tea they use in the quiet area is my absolute favorite. I get to the spa early so I can catch up on some reading or even emails (probably not smart before a massage, but it works) and enjoy at least 20-30 minutes of hot tea before my treatment.
  5. The Tanglewood location. Hiatus is so close to everything I visit on a regular basis and I love that it’s smack dab between Dish Society and Local Foods – two of my favorite Houston restaurants. Usually I’ll head to Tanglewood a few hours before my treatment and post up at one of their patio spots for lunch and WiFi and then pop over my amazing treatment.

Also, check out my latest Houston blog post on 6 Reasons to Get a Massage Right Now.

If you visit this Tanglewood spa, use code JaymeHIATUS20 when booking at any of their locations to get 20% off! 

Click here to score more discounts at other spots too.

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Easy Workout Tips and Links for Apartment Workouts

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Home Gym Tips & Tricks

If you’ve followed me on social media or this blog for a while, you know fitness is one of the things I focus most on. I love sharing workout tips, my favorite athleisure brands and of course the reasons why I love Orangetheory Fitness Houston (OTF).

 

While I try to hit OTF 3x a week, that still leaves 4 days, that’s why when I’m apartment hunting, the apartment gym is a key thing I look for, and Encore Montrose hit the nail on the head with their gym setup. They have a full gym on the first floor with all the cardio machines and free weights you’d ever need and have a private spin and pilates studio located on the second floor.

 

With that said, I know finding the motivation and a workout you’ll actually do isn’t as easy as all the bloggers make it sound. As someone who travels a lot and finds herself trying to get a good workout in on the road, I’ve narrowed down a few workout tips and tricks to share.

 

Sometimes I head down to the apartment gym and give myself a quick goal – whether that’s 30 minutes in the gym and I can choose what I do on the spot or that’s 2-miles on the treadmill plus 2 sets of 3 arm exercises. For me personally, my goal is usually just movement. I’m not all about pre-workout shakes or having to hit a specific calorie burn on my Apple watch, but I realize it’s different for everyone. 

 

4 Easy-To-Follow Workouts You Can Do At Home:

  1.   Fitness Blender – No Equipment Workout– No equipment workouts are usually my favorite, especially when I’m short on time. You don’t have to waste time gathering equipment or waiting for someone to finish their set, plus these are pretty easy to do in a small hotel room or in my own apartment. Time: 20 minutes (and don’t forget to stretch)
  2. Nike Training ClubApp– I wrote about this app back in 2013, so clearly I’m a big fan. I love how easy it is to use – you can search based on muscle group (i.e. core, back and glutes) as well as time, which is more than ideal when I only have 15 minutes to get a workout in. They go over all the exercises and show proper technique, provide motivation (“You got this!”) along the way and you can even listen to your own music during the workout while they count you down through each move. Time: varies
  3.  Kayla Itsines–Everyone’s heard of Kayla before as she has taken over the Internet by storm for a few years and for good reason. There are a lot of workouts you can find from her, like the 7-minute YouTube one linked above, following her YouTube channel, following her on Instagram or buying her guide. She is well respected in the industry and has a workout for pretty much everything. Time: 7 minutes (and many others)
  4.   Pamela RF – Best 20 Minute Workout at Home– Again, all you need is a yoga mat (and that’s based on personal preference), and it’s a quick burst of HIIT that’ll be a good way to get in a fast workout and get those endorphins pumping. Time: 20 minutes

 

3 other pro tips when it comes to working out at home:

  1. Take a look around. Encore Montrose offers interactive fitness classes in the pilates and spin studio. You may not even need an app or extra motivation – ask someone in the leasing office (same holds true if you’re in a hotel and don’t know how to use the apps they have provided) and get started. Many hotels I’ve visited lately even have Peloton bikes and subscriptions set up for your use! 
  2. Google is your best friend. If I want a quick leg workout, I type that in and usually have pretty good luck finding a YouTube video specializing in that specifically. It won’t always work, but it’s worth a shot! 
  3.   I follow a lot of fit-related Instagram accounts. Many times they have captions with a quick run through of a workout or even videos showcasing a 10-minute sequence. I simply have a folder titled “Workouts” and hit save for future use.

This blog post is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing what I love about this eclectic Houston neighborhood and particularly my spacious apartment community, which includes the gym. These Montrose luxury apartments are offering some amazing leasing specials on all their floor plans, a few weeks free rent, so hurry in for a tour! If you stop by for a tour shoot me a note and be sure to tell them Jayme (or The Blonde Side) sent you! The address is 4508 Graustark Street, located right next to Black Hole Coffee. 

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4 of Houston Montrose’s Best Coffee Shops

Siphon Coffee in Montrose

It’s no surprise the coffee shops in Montrose are as unique and eclectic as the entire neighborhood (shops, eateries, tree-lined streets, tattoo shops and more). As someone who works from home, changing up my routine to local coffee shops a few times a week is key for my creativity.

 

Black Hole Coffee House– Located directly next door to our Montrose apartments is the cute and always packed Black Hole Coffee. Serving coffee, tea, snacks and desserts, plus there is almost always a food truck outside, so you’ll be able to eat, drink and work on your laptop easily. What used to be a convenience store (and still has the confusing sign to prove it) is now a local favorite boasting local food and even has beer and wine. I’m not much of a late night person, but they’re open until midnight if that’s your thing.

 

Agora– This two-story eclectic and full-of-vibe coffee house serves coffee and so much more (including a pretty broad selection of wines). This is the kind of place I have posted up for hours upon hours, thanks to the glasses and bottles of wine they serve. I’m a big fan of sitting on the second floor peering out onto Westheimer, because if you know that area of Houston, you never know what you’ll see. The ambiance and nearby walkability here is something Houstonians have adored for years. 

 

Inversion Coffee & Art– This is a smaller space, located on Montrose and offers great coffee and tea selections, but the bonus here is the Gelato! And according to some of their recent Instagram posts, they now serve donuts, so it’s time I add this one back into my rotation. They have pastries and other light snacks and the space is filled with lots of natural sunlight and artwork adorned on the walls. If you live in the Montrose area, you’ll likely run into a friend or two here, since it’s such a popular spot.

 

Siphon Coffee– This spot has beer on tap. Yes, they obviouslyserve coffee, but so much more including a pretty healthy breakfast and lunch selection that starts at 7a. I highly recommend the Stuffed Avocado – pasture raised egg yolk, potato hash, grand cru gruyere, basil and red chili flake stuffed inside a ripe and delicious avocado. This place is unique, and so is their brewing method and it’s definitely worth a stop on your Montrose Houston coffee tour.

 

This is part of a sponsored blog series with my favorite Montrose apartments, Encore Montrose. Encore Montrose is currently offering a few incredible leasing specials on one and two-bedroom apartments, including look and lease gift cards plus a few weeks free rent, so don’t miss out. If you stop by for a private tour shoot me a note and be sure to tell them Jayme (or The Blonde Side) sent you! Also, ask for the Champagne Tour to help make the process even more enjoyable!  

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FREELANCE + SPORTS + TRAVEL + FITNESS
COPYRIGHT 2019, THE BLONDE SIDE
CREATED BY JAYME LAMM