Updated March 5, 2019
I had the opportunity last weekend to speak at the Pinners Conference in Dallas. It was a huge honor. I decided to make this opportunity an epic girls weekend, so I brought my best friend, Katie, along with me! We had such a fun time together and laughed almost the entire time.
I made a video of our entire weekend, which you totally should watch! Go ahead, click that play button.
How did we have such an epic weekend? Let me recount the ways.
1. An amazing hotel
The Hilton Arlington hosted us for two nights and we could not have picked a better location. It was 4 minutes from the convention center! Not only location was perfect, but it was extremely comfortable and we enjoyed every minute of our stay there.
The staff was so friendly and professional, the hotel was clean and modern, and we had a great view of Six Flags.
Our room was so comfortable! The beds were heavenly, and all of the pillows on each bed were the icing on the cake. It was a perfect size for us two (plus Ashlie on Friday night!) to hang, rest, and relax. The Hilton Arlington was a mom’s saving grace to sleeping in!!! That’s the best part about leaving the kids for the weekend, am I right?!
2. Regionally inspired cuisine
R Bar & Grill is adjacent to the Hilton Arlington, and we had a most welcoming dinner there on Thursday night. R Bar & Grill “takes a contemporary approach to regional cuisine” (according to their website), and I totally felt that as soon as we set foot in the restaurant. The menu is very innovative (i.e. the smoked Caesar salad has fried green tomato croutons), while also feeling like there’s something for everyone. The restaurant had a great atmosphere – lots of TVs with sports, a big welcoming bar, and a comfy feeling with the dark wood. Our server was so sweet, attentive and helpful. The food was delicious!
I had the fried chicken sliders which also had green chiles and cheese. Oh man, that was amazing. I would never think to put green chiles on fried chicken. I absolutely loved it. Katie had fried chicken and grits.
3. Fun sightseeing, despite an ear infection
It’s true. I got an ear infection and had to hit up the CVS clinic that first morning. Luckily with some drugs I could kick it and enjoy some time in Dallas. Katie and I walked around downtown Dallas, and made sure to visit Dealey Plaza – it was one of her requests, and y’all know we love the Kennedy family here in my house.
4. Lunch with a college friend in a haunted restaurant
After some sightseeing, we met one of my closest friends, Dee, for lunch at Breadwinners. I had never been to this location, but the building is super old and apparently haunted. We loved the food and the atmosphere, and of course seeing my dear Dee!
5. The most incredible “hip” girls dinner
Friday night, Ashlie joined us and we headed over to the Cedars Social for the most fun and hip dinner ever!
First of all, the entire vibe and decor of the restaurant is so cool. Very “hipster” but with a laid back and chill feel. Our server was very knowledgeable about the menu and made great food and drink suggestions – because there are lots of seasonal choices! I ended up getting the fig drink that looks like an adult slushie, and my friends got the Mexican Heat. We all loved our cocktails. We split some truffle fries and hummus for an appetizer. For our entrees, we got shrimp and grits and the burger – all of which were incredible. Our desserts were specials not on the menu and were absolutely delicious.
We really enjoyed our evening at the Cedars Social! Definitely going back the next time I’m in Dallas.
6. Speaking at a conference and having yourself live-streamed to lots of viewers
My class at the Pinners Conference was so much fun! I got to talk about one of my favorite things in the world – drugstore makeup! I also used Katie as my model, and applied a full face of drugstore makeup on her as well. The class went really smoothly and I felt great about it.
The Pinners Conference was really well done – very well organized and lots to learn and see. We spent quite a lot of time Saturday shopping in the expo. So many great shops and it felt like you were on Etsy in person! If you ever have an opportunity to attend the Pinners Conference, definitely give it a go.
7. Awesome friends
Pretty sure this weekend wouldn’t be near as awesome if these two weren’t there with me. Katie kept me laughing the entire time, and even had to mother me at other times (especially when I didn’t know how to buckle my belt… haha). Ashlie was so helpful during my class. She operated my slides and took pictures for me. Katie was a fabulous makeup model, too. These ladies are legit! Love you girls!
I’m already ready for another girls weekend. Who’s in?
The Ashmores Blog says
SO FUN!!! Love the photos girly!!!!! That food looked amazing!