The Urban Darling

A Dreamlike Stay in Matera: Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort

By Esperanza on April 14, 2026

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There are some places that stay with you long after you leave, and our time in Matera was exactly that, unforgettable. Known for its ancient cave dwellings and timeless atmosphere, this southern Italian city feels like stepping into another world. We wanted our stay to reflect that same sense of place, and Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort delivered in every possible way. Built into the historic Sassi, the hotel perfectly blends the raw beauty of Matera’s past with refined, modern luxury. From the moment we arrived, we were completely captivated, not just by the setting, but by the feeling that we were experiencing something truly unique and special.

My 25 Baby Must Haves As A Second Time Mom

By Esperanza on April 6, 2026

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Now that Sage is 2, my husband Andrew and I decided that we would start trying for another baby this year! Getting ready for a new baby can feel both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. With so many products out there, it’s hard to know what you actually need versus what just looks nice on a registry. After going through this season myself, I’ve narrowed it down to the essentials that truly made everyday life easier. In this post, I’m sharing my top 25 baby must-haves—the items I reached for constantly and would recommend to any new or expecting mom.

Positano, Italy | Travel

A Slow Morning in Positano: Beating the Amalfi Coast Crowds

By Esperanza on March 28, 2026

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We set out early from our Airbnb in Scala, winding our way down the cliffs toward Positano just as the day was beginning to wake up. Getting there ahead of the crowds made all the difference because we were able to park in a garage close to Spiaggia Grande, which felt like a small victory in itself. With the beach still quiet, we took advantage of the calm to snap a few family photos by the water, the pastel buildings rising behind us in that iconic Positano backdrop. For a brief moment, it felt like we had the place almost entirely to ourselves.

Fashion | My Style

Casual Chic Spring WFH Mom Outfits I’ve Been Wearing

By Esperanza on March 27, 2026

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Spring has me fully leaning into effortless, casual chic outfits that can keep up with busy days as a work-from-home mom and on the go. Lately, I’ve been reaching for pieces from Grey State Apparel, a brand I genuinely connect with for its eco-conscious approach and commitment to transparency. Their use of natural fabrics makes every piece feel breathable, comfortable, and easy to wear from morning to night—exactly what I need in this season of life. I love classic, timeless pieces like these wardrobe staples—they’re perfect for a capsule wardrobe.

Amalfi, Italy | Travel

Our Perfect Fall Afternoon On The Amalfi Coast

By Esperanza on March 10, 2026

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By the end of our first week in Italy, the rhythm of the Amalfi Coast had already started to sink in. We spent the morning exploring the tiny village of Atrani before making our way into Amalfi for the afternoon. With our Airbnb tucked up in the hills of Scala for three nights, we had driven down earlier that morning and parked in the garage between Atrani and Amalfi—one of those practical decisions that ended up shaping a perfectly slow, walkable day. From there, everything unfolded on foot, exactly the way the coast is meant to be experienced.

Atrani, Italy | Travel

Atrani: Family Moments on Italy’s Smallest Amalfi Coast Town

By Esperanza on February 25, 2026

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Atrani is the smallest town in Italy, and you can feel that almost immediately. Just steps from Amalfi—but noticeably quieter—it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds while still experiencing the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. We were especially excited to visit knowing it served as the setting for the Netflix series Ripley, based on the film The Talented Mr. Ripley. Seeing those dramatic cliffs and layered buildings in person felt surreal. We only planned to spend half a day here, which ended up being the perfect amount of time.

Montalcino, Italy | Travel

Exploring Montalcino: Vineyard Tour and Brunello Tasting in Tuscany

By Esperanza on February 17, 2026

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Montalcino is the kind of town that immediately feels like it was made for wine lovers. Perched atop rolling hills in Tuscany, its narrow streets are lined with wine boutiques, tasting rooms, and charming shops. It’s a beautiful place to wander, though we did wish there had been a bit more variety beyond all the wine-focused spots. The centerpiece of town is an impressive old castle, where visitors can sample wines or enjoy lunch while soaking in the views. We only had a few hours to explore before heading to Corte Pavone, so we didn’t get the chance to try one of the popular wine boutiques for a meal—but it’s definitely on our list for next time.

Family Style | Holidays

A Simple Valentine’s Day Photoshoot At Home

By Esperanza on February 9, 2026

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Valentine’s Day has taken on a sweeter meaning over the years, especially now that we get to celebrate it as a family of three. This is my second Valentine’s Day celebrating with my now-husband (we’ll be married six months in March). I couldn’t resist capturing a few simple moments with Andrew and our toddler this year—nothing fancy, just us at home in white tees and denim, with a handmade paper heart garland.

Montepulciano, Italy | Travel

Montepulciano: The Tuscan Hill Town That Stole Our Hearts

By Esperanza on February 6, 2026

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Montepulciano was one of those places we almost talked ourselves out of visiting. While planning our honeymoon to Tuscany—with a toddler in tow—we kept hearing people rave about it, and that made us nervous. Would it feel overrun? Too commercial? Another “Instagram town” that didn’t live up to the hype? But from the moment we arrived, those worries completely melted away. Montepulciano felt authentic, historic, and deeply charming, the kind of place that pulls you in slowly and then doesn’t let go.

Siena, Italy | Travel

A Fall Day Wandering Around Siena During Our Honeymoon In Italy

By Esperanza on February 4, 2026

Siena was one of those places that felt almost mythic in my memory — the Tuscan hills glowing in summer light, the slow swirl of history in every cobblestone. I first wandered its winding streets in my early twenties while studying in Florence, and I thought I knew it well. But this time, on our fall honeymoon with our toddler in tow, Siena revealed itself in a whole new way: softer, slower, somehow more real. With cooler air and the gentle sound of little feet on ancient stones, the city that once felt like a dream became our very tangible day of laughter, coffee, and rediscovery.