Wines To Try On National Wine Day
May 25th is National Wine Day and here are 8 ways we are celebrating
Read MoreYour guide to New York real estate and more
Off The MRKT - Where New York's, Real Estate, Life Style, and Culture Converge
May 25th is National Wine Day and here are 8 ways we are celebrating
Read MoreMemorial Day Weekend is almost upon us so we've rounded up five of our favorite things to do that include all of the best things in life: burgers, wine, brunch, cocktails and dinner. As restrictions start to life, you can still enjoy the holiday weekend with these 5 options!
Hole in the Wall's Murray Hill (626 1st Avenue) location is teaming up with Ghost Burger to give away 100 gourmet burgers as a thank you to NYC for staying strong. The first-ever Ghost Burger pop up is happening tomorrow (Friday, 5/22) from 12pm - 6pm. If you're one of the first 100 people to visit Hole in the Wall in Murray Hill on Friday and purchase a drink, you’ll receive a free mouthwatering burger from Ghost Burger. Drink options include coffee, tea in addition to alcoholic beverages like a Jalapeño Bloody Mary, Aperol Spritz, Mimosa, Blood Orange Negroni and the Espresso Martini. Gourmet burgers include the Fat Boy with 5oz grass-fed beef, double cheese, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, grilled onion, pickles and special sauce, The Herb with an Impossible patty, cheese, grilled onion, lettuce, tomato, avocado, pickles and kewpie mayo, and the Char Siu Chook with fried chicken, applewood smoked bacon, cheese, lettuce, pickled carrot, jalapeños and ranch.
The Brooklyn Bridge Park Fornino location seasonally opens for takeout on Friday, May 22nd. If the weather cooperates, bring a book and feast on their Italian specialties from a blanket in the park. The outdoor restaurant will have two pickup windows for socially distanced grab and go wood-fired pizzas, salads, sandwiches and non-alcoholic beverages. The Brooklyn Bridge Park Fornino location will be open on weekdays from 3pm to sunset and on weekends from 12pm to sunset. Patrons will have the ability to order in advance through the Fornino website for pickup or to make purchases on site with contactless payment options available. Delivery will also be provided via Caviar starting May 29th.
Loulou (176 8th Ave) has unbelievable cocktails that can be picked up from their to go window daily from 3pm - 9pm. You could then walk over to Union Square Park. The Loulou Hour from 3-5pm features $10 specialty cocktails, $9 Rosé by Minuty, $8 red and white wine and $6 Sangria. If you're hungry, Menu items from Executive Chef Jarett Brodie include a Niçoise Salad with seared tuna, shaved egg, kalamata olive, haricot verts, potato, watercress and anchovy, Cavatelli with wild mushroom ragu, lacinato kale, crispy artichoke, and Parmesan creme, the Loulou Burger made with grass-fed beef, clothbound cheddar and caramelized onions, Duck Leg Confit with apple rosemary puree and gala chutney, and Steak Frites featuring a 7oz skirt steak and béarnaise.
Sushi Lab at The Sanctuary Hotel in Midtown (132 W. 47th Street) is offering all wine by the bottle at 40% off. Wines include Mud House Sauvignon Blanc, Flor de Campo Pinot Noir, and Whispering Angel Rosé. You can also indulge in 40% off sake, including Suigei “Drunken Whale”, a Tokubetsu Junmai sake with a ricey nose and a crisp clean finish complemented by a rich flavor at the price of $18 (40% discount from $30), Dassai 39 for $27 (40% discount from $45). Head to Seamless, DoorDash, UberEats or Postmates to order. The vegan eatery Beyond Sushi has delicious wines on their delivery menu including an Accuro Malbec from Argentina, Orenia Syrah from France, Casal De Ventozela Rosé from Portugal, Breganze Pinot Grigio from Italy and a California Chardonnay.
When you purchase a bottle of wine with your lunch or dinner order, you'll receive a complimentary 4oz wheel of organic cashew based cheese. Order on the website and seamless. Last but not least, Clinton Hall is offering delivery and pickup from their 16 W. 36th St. and 90 Washington St. and you can drink to your heart's delight with their menu of $19.99 bottles of wine, such as Santa Marina Prosecco, Justin Sauvignon Blanc, Chateau Ste Michelle Rosé, Seaglass Chardonnay, Terrazas Altos Del Plata Malbec, and Excelsior Cabernet. Delivery and pickup is available from 12pm - 9pm Monday - Sunday via UberEats, GrubHub or Seamless.
Brooklyn Chop House at 150 Nassau Street in FiDi serves up dim sum and chops giving diners everything from seafood and noodles, to 30 - 35 day dry-aged Prime Steaks and Double Thick Cut Chops. If you’re looking to be a total baller and split a fine dining experience with your quarantine crew, splurge on 32oz Dry-Aged Bone in Tomahawk, a 48oz Dry-Aged Porterhouse for two and Salt & Pepper Lobster Tails. You can also indulge in their delicious dishes and cocktails a la carte by ordering delivery on Monday - Sunday from 4pm - 11pm here, on Postmates, Seamless or Caviar. Segreta Cucina Italiana (55 E 54th Street) offers a wide selection of classic Italian dishes at affordable prices, which can be paired with a varied selection of Italian wines by the bottle.
Executive Chef Moshe Grundman showcases his talent with House Specialties which includes Salmon Oreganata, Calabrian Shrimp, Chicken Parmigiana, Chicken Marsala, Veal Milanese, Veal Parmigiana and a Whole Grilled Branzino. They’re also offering a 30% off discount for first time purchases via GrubHub. Order for delivery via Seamless, Grubhub and the website on Monday - Saturday from 5pm - 9pm and on Sunday from 3pm - 8pm. Last but not least, Ghost Burger is delivering fun and flavorful burgers when you need one the most. Ghost Burger keeps things simple with three signature classics: beef, chicken and a veggie. Their Fat Boy 2.0 features a dry age chuck rib patty, Miso onions, mustard special sauce and American cheese on a milk bun. There’s also wings, truffle fries, and sides to choose from. You can even swap out any bun for lettuce, if that’s what you’re into. Order on the website on Friday from 11am - 6pm and Saturday - Sunday from 10am - 3pm.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Moving is an exciting—albeit scary—time for many people. For better or worse, moving requires devotion, attention, and, sometimes, professional help. There are plenty of reasons why people decide to move. Maybe they are starting a family and need to have a lot more space, or perhaps downsizing is on their mind due to the fact that their kids are all grown up and with homes of their own. No matter what the situation is, moving seems to be a part of everyone's lives at one time or another, and nothing can make it worse than not knowing where to turn first in a sea of boxes. Whenever you decide to move, read this ultimate house moving checklist to see what you must do for a smooth transition. You will thank us later!
When you’re two months or eight weeks out, you’ll want to prepare every room for the big day. Inspect each room of the new home for structural, plumbing, electrical, or any other issues. You may need a professional to help with this inspection. Also, use this time to order new furniture or appliances for the house. Couches, chairs, light and water fixtures, and heavy appliances take time to order, deliver, and install, so prep for these ahead of time. Additionally, consider hiring a Family-owned removal company in Oxford (if you happen to reside here) in order to assist with the move. Such companies tend to provide personalized service, potentially ensuring a smooth and stress-free relocation. This is especially helpful when separating your items into piles to save, donate, or sell, as a professional team can efficiently handle the heavy lifting.
As the big day draws near, start the packing process. Always start with the items you rarely use since you can store these until necessary. Seasonal items may fall into this category. Remember, save more frequently used items for right before move-in day to have them ready throughout the process. Do not forget to label. This is a crucial step to ensure each box reaches its destination, especially if you use professional movers. However, keep valuables on hand to make sure they're not misplaced or stolen. You may also need this time to change your primary healthcare physician, veterinarian, mail, auto services, utility companies, and so on.
With the right professional assistance, relocating can be a far more organized and stress-free experience. People starting their new lives should always find reliable moving companies that offer packing, transportation, and even storage solutions to simplify the process. Choosing an experienced team ensures that your belongings are handled carefully and delivered to your new home on time. Taking these extra steps allows you to focus on settling in and making your new space feel like home.
Finally, with the last part of the ultimate house moving checklist, the big day is here and you’re ready to live in your new home. Say goodbye to your current living situation and say hello to your new house! If you’re using furniture movers in Toronto, supervise the load-in so that furniture and important items aren’t damaged.. Also, you may need to clean up a bit if you’re moving into an older or previously owned house. Make a final walk-through to assure everything works well. You may find something unbeknownst to you before, like poor water quality or faulty electrical currents. Either way, now’s the time to call a professional to take care of those issues.
Leasing has begun at new rental development, The Dime, in South Williamsburg. Offering 177 apartments and a full suite of lifestyle amenities, including over an acre of outdoor space, the building is set to welcome its first residents this summer. A virtual, no contact leasing program led by Douglas Elliman Development Marketing has begun, allowing renters to safely and conveniently explore the brand new living spaces.
Designed by Fogarty Finger Architecture is comprised of studio through three-bedroom apartments, crowned by two stunning penthouses. With soaring ceiling heights, and floor-to-ceiling windows, residences at The Dime will enjoy sweeping views, including multiple New York City skylines, the Williamsburg Bridge, and the harbors, rivers and highways that thread the city. Individual homes are thoughtfully-designed to evoke calm and relaxation. Penthouses and select residences feature expansive private terraces.
“We’re proud of The Dime, from its architectural design to its efficient and modern living spaces, to the carefully thought out amenities that will foster a balanced lifestyle,” said Sam Charney, Founder and Principal of Charney Companies. “We think now more than ever, residents will especially appreciate the abundance of private outdoor space, totaling over an acre with plenty of room to socially distance. It affords great opportunities to garden, grill, exercise and enjoy the fresh air, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Williamsburg Bridge.”
The building’s entire fifth floor is home to a dynamic mix of lifestyle amenities including an expansive terrace featuring comfortable seating throughout, a community garden, space for yoga, a cooking area with grills, multiple dining tables, and lush greenery set around a great lawn. An indoor Wi-Fi-enabled lounge offers plenty of room for residents to unwind on comfortable sofas, get lost in a book on cozy reading chairs, or catch up on work at spacious tables.
“Williamsburg has emerged as a center of creativity, a major hub for technology, media and the arts, making it an especially appealing neighborhood for people working in those fields,” said Nicholas Silvers, Founding Partner of Tavros Holdings. “In addition to comfortably-designed homes and 24-hour amenities, The Dime is entirely Wi-Fi-enabled throughout the building and complimentary in both indoors common areas and outdoors. With plenty of lounge, work, and open air spaces, we think the building will provide the lifestyle and technology that freelancers, entrepreneurs and creatives want in a home - not to mention the rapidly growing workforce of remote employees.”
At the penthouse level, residents will enjoy a private vintage-style lounge with both indoor and outdoor areas and mesmerizing views. The lounge’s speakeasy-inspired bar is outfitted with elegant seating, warm library lighting, and art and sculpture, making it the perfect space for entertaining guests.
Residents will also find a half basketball court and a state-of-the-art fitness center programmed by The Wright Fit, a firm that has created fitness centers in high-end condos, such as 56 Leonard and 15 Central Park West. The Dime represents the first time the company has designed a fitness center in a rental building. In-building bicycle storage is also available.
The modern apartments at The Dime offer high-end kitchen finishes with white Caesarstone countertops paired with glossy gray subway tile backsplashes and cream-colored cabinetry. All homes are equipped with panelized appliances, including dishwashers, refrigerators, electric cooktops and ovens, and stacked washer/dryers. Tranquil bathrooms feature Chestnut vanities with white Caesarstone countertops, pearl-colored wall tiles and walk-in rain showers.
“The initial interest and inquiry volume are unprecedented for a new development rental and we’ve successfully been able to take our leasing efforts entirely virtual to safely accommodate renters currently navigating the marketplace,” said Matthew Villetto, Executive Vice President, Douglas Elliman Development Marketing. “The elevated finishes, robust, technology-supported amenity offerings and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and beyond, make The Dime one of the most sought after properties in one of the most desirable locations in all of New York City, and we’re excited to bring it to market.”
Prices at The Dime will start around $3,000 for studios, and over $7,000 for three-bedroom apartments. Penthouse residences with wraparound terraces are priced from $13,000. For more information or a virtual tour, please call 718-599-DIME or log on to www.thedime.com which supports a live text now feature to speak directly with a leasing agent.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Every wanted to live in the same home as Rocky star Sylvester Stallone? Now you can, all you need is a cool $3,350,000, to purchase his La Quinta, California home.
Located at 52945 Humboldt, La Quinta, you can imagine the heavy wood double doors open up to a vaulted ceiling in the entryway, which leads into the double-height living room. A stone fireplace is the focal point on one wall of the living room.
The spacious kitchen features a large wood-and-stone island. The upstairs ensuite includes a disappearing flat screen TV at the foot of the bed for entertainment and a fireplace including a private terrace off the bedroom. The serene master bath includes a two-sink vanity and a tub. The dining room opens onto the back terrace. Interior details include arched entryways, beamed ceilings, wine room, walk-in closets, & powder room. The expansive outdoor details includes multiple terraces, a pool and spa shaded by lush palms, and a built-in fire pit. The residence backs up to a burbling creek.
The listing is being held by Douglas Elliman agent Josh Reef.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Last week the highest price sale in Connecticut this year happened in the Greenwich home at 54 Byram Drive, far surpassing the next highest sale in Greenwich for 2020 after this was $6.497M at 19 Brookridge Drive.
Related: The Top Reasons to Make the Change to Greenwich
With a starting ask of $21 million, the property was closed even amongst the age of COVID-19. Christopher Finlay of Halstead’s Greenwich office represented the listing.
Related: These Connecticut Vineyards You Have To See
This truly spectacular Belle Haven Association waterfront estate encompasses 3.96 acres with panoramic views across the Long Island Sound. The sprawling estate has 375 ft. of direct Long Island Sound shoreline with a dramatic high setting for this beautifully renovated 1915 Georgian Colonial. This classic Belle Haven home with 4 levels of living space was carefully renovated in 2014. The interior extends 10,000 sq. ft with high ceilings, period architectural detailing and gracious formal rooms. Covered verandas and terraces extend the living spaces on the south side overlooking the water from the 1st and 2nd floors. The outdoor environment is unmatched. The gorgeous rolling lawns lead to an over-sized swimming pool, a stunning flower garden and a contoured golf practice green with bunkers.
Take a look at the house below.
photo credit is Halstead Connecticut LLC
Related: 5 Reasons to Move to Connecticut
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
If you're planning social distancing Memorial Day Weekend get together, you've come to the right place. Since we know there's no better way to get the party started than with creative and fruity cocktails or fan favorites, we've put together some of our favorites drinks of the season. Read through to check out some of these delicious summer cocktail recipes.
20ml Lemon juice
Dash of Worcestershire sauce
Dash of Tabasco Tomato juice top
Prepare the glass by wetting the rim by running a lemon around it. Mix celery salt and cracked black pepper on a plate and dip the glass. Build all ingredients in the glass over ice and garnish with celery sticks and a lemon wedge.
1 3/4 oz Partida Blanco Tequila
3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
3/4 oz Agave Nectar (Cut 50/50 with water)
8 to 10 Raspberries
Method: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain over fresh ice into a highball glass. Top with sparkling water or club soda. Garnish: Lemon twist and 3 Raspberries on a pick
5 ounces Smoke Tree Rosé
2 ounces Chandon Rosé
2-3 lemon slices
2-3 fresh strawberries
1 mint sprig
Fill a cocktail glass with ice. Pour in Smoke Tree Rosé. Top with Chandon Rosé. Stir in chopped strawberries and lemon. Garnish with mint sprig.
Coconut Water
1 Brown Sugar Cube
3 dashes of Angostura Bitters
Lime wheel
Combine all ingredients over ice in a highball glass. Lightly stir and garnish with Cucumber Spear.
3oz Cape Mentelle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon
1 teaspoon raw sugar
2 lime wedges
4 green grapes
4 mint leaves
Combine the ingredients in a stemless wine glass. Muddle to extract juices and oils. Fill the glass with ice, top up with Cape Mentelle SBS, stir, sip & savor!
4 slices English Cucumber
2 Strawberries
¾ part Honey syrup*
½ part lemon juice or juice ¼ of a lemon
4 part Chandon Brut Rose
1 lemon twist
*May sub agave or another sweetener
Combine 3 of the cucumber slices and 1 of the strawberries in a cocktail shaker and muddle until they have released most of their juices. Add the honey and lemon juice. Add ice, shake, fine strain into a wine glass with ice and top with 4 parts Chandon Brut Rose, Garnish with the remaining cucumber slice, the other strawberry, and the lemon twist long cucumber tumbler.
2 parts Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice
¾ Lime Juice
½ part Sugar Syrup
½ part Italicus
3 parts Sparkling Water
Combine all ingredients over ice in a highball glass. Lightly stir and garnish with Cucumber Spear.
1.5 oz Grey Goose
1 oz St-Germain
0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz fresh blackberry puree
Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and strain into a coup or martini glass. Garnish with mint sprig.
When considering replacing your roof, it's crucial to prioritize quality and expertise. Chappelle Roofing LLC stands out as a reputable choice, offering professional services that ensure a durable and reliable roof replacement.
When replacing your roof, you may consider going with the same roofing material as before. For example, asphalt shingles are very common in residential homes. However, metal roofing can also be very beneficial. Metal roofing is energy-efficient, durable, and, because they are 100 percent recyclable, they’re better for the environment. If you decide to change it up with a metal roof, you should know that there are several types of metal used for metal roofing, all of which provide these benefits to varying degrees. Do some research and consider your options before doubling down on shingles again.
It’s good to be picky when shopping for a roofing contractor. For instance, you should only settle for contractors that have at least a decade of experience under their belt. You should also seek out customer reviews and recommendations while shopping for a contractor. Likewise, when speaking directly to them, ask for a list of previous employers and, if possible, any current or previous project sites you can visit. Most importantly, make sure the contractor has the right certification and insurance to legally operate. Hiring quality services such as those offered by this roofing contractor can help ensure your home’s roof is built to last. They have decades of experience in the industry, as well as countless satisfied customers who can attest to their reliable and honest workmanship. A bad contractor means bad news for your new roof, so explore your options before settling with one.
Removing and installing the new roof will not be a quiet process. It’ll get very loud during the duration of the project, so you need to be ready. If you’re planning on having a Skype call with friends and family, watch a new TV show, or anything else that requires peace and quiet, schedule it around the roofing project. If you can be away from the house while the project is happening, you may want to do that. Instead, go see a movie instead of watching that latest episode of The Flash or taking part in a virtual happy hour. Each homeowner’s insurance policy is not the same, as Gustafson Roofing explains
Now that you know what to consider when replacing your roof, you can get moving on the project. If you don’t take a detailed approach, you could end up with lackluster results, which should never be the case when you’re undergoing a home improvement project. With the right preparation on your part and a skilled contractor on your side, your house can look better than before when the project finally comes to a close.
By Aleksandra Scepanovic, Managing Director, Ideal Properties Group
Aleksandra Scepanovic
Most New Yorkers are self-quarantining at home during the COVID-19 pandemic…and some are even finding themselves isolated in a petite studio apartment. The average Manhattan studio apartment runs at about 550 square feet, which in comparison to the average home size in the United States (of 2,700 square feet), can be quite the squeeze. This holds especially true in a city hard hit by the novel virus, in the days when New Yorkers spend so much of their time – at home.
So how can you maximize your living space in a New York City studio? Consider these tips – they are evergreen but can be especially important during the pandemic:
When you’re living in close quarters, the Mies van der Rohe’s “less is more” rings even truer. But that doesn’t mean you should sacrifice your personal style by forgoing decorative pieces in order to save space. There are plenty of ways to work your décor into functional, purposeful pieces. For example, bar carts, storage ottomans, macramé baskets or apothecary jars are all ways you can store additional items in a more polished manner without your storage options being obvious or taking up too much space. A bar cart can serve as a stylish, decorative yet functional piece for parties, but can also house and display special-occasion glasses and dishware when not in use. Storage ottomans can be a practical place to store bulky sweaters or blankets. Apothecary and mason jars can store just about everything – from kitchen items to cosmetics.
If you’re renting your first studio apartment and don’t plan to stay forever and a day, this might not be the right option for you. But, if you do plan to call your studio home for a few years, it could make sense to invest in furniture pieces that fit your specific space. Apart from beautifying, the choices may help improve your apartment’s functionality. An alcove studio (often L-shaped) separates a traditional studio with the living and sleeping quarters. If your residence’s configuration allows it, you can partition the areas off by allowing custom furniture to transform them: a cleverly placed and curated Murphy bed or table that folds up into the wall can help maximize your living quarters while lending charm to the entire space.
When in doubt, deploy tricks of the (interior design) trade that can help make a space feel larger. Hanging mirrors on the walls can create an illusion of a larger space by providing a sense of depth. Interior designers are also known to hang a curtain rod slightly above the window frame, a discernible modification that draws the eye up and makes the ceilings feel higher. In a studio, it can be difficult to distinguish one area or section of the space from the next, but using different sized area rugs can help to visually separate the spaces. Bright colors can often make a small space feel crowded, so if you have the option to paint, opt for soft neutrals for the wall color, and add dashes of color through hanging art. Making these minor adjustments can trick your mind into thinking you have more space than you really do… and inch your studio a step closer to it feeling like home.
While studio apartments vary in size, traditionally speaking, they are significantly smaller than other housing options in the city. The layout of a studio (and its inherent openness) may not be for everyone, but the lessons from interior design portfolios – especially during these times when people are sheltering at home – can offer some creative ways to make your small space feel like a home of much grander proportions.
Aleksandra Scepanovic is Managing Director of Ideal Properties Group, a leading residential real estate firm specializing in premier Brownstone Brooklyn and Manhattan neighborhoods including Park Slope, Carroll Gardens and Brooklyn Heights, as well as Williamsburg, Gowanus, Chelsea and other sought-after locations.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
We have all been held up in quarantine for longer than we would ever like to remember, with that comes along bad eat and drinking habits. According to Forbes, alcoholic consumption has increased so much that “Spirits and wine combined each jumped 27% over last year at the end of March. The bigger story is in e-commerce, where total alcohol sales launched a 291% increase over the end of March 2019.“
After a few weeks of being holed up, we were in need to get back to being healthy and get ready for Summer, whatever that means. After finding Poppi we found our new fix for a drink to unwind to during the day or night, with the added benefits of apple cider vinegar! So what is the Poppi drink?
As seen on Shark Tank Poppi is the happy drink perfect for staying healthy under any circumstance as it improves your immune system, and even gives your skin a nice glow, by reducing inflammation. Made with fresh fruit, 5g of sugar or less, and 20 calories or less per can. Our ACV is in stealth mode, so all you taste is pure Poppi flavor.
The flavors consist of Lime Ginger, Orange, Pineapple Mango, Strawberry Lemonade, Peach Tea, Blueberry, and Raspberry Rose.
At 3.00/can or $35.99/case you can Drink Poppi here.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Inside this weeks virtual tour
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You are your own harshest critic. While everyone has down days and occasional doubts about their good qualities, many people experience persistent low self-esteem daily. It can cause them to feel insecure and unmotivated and, if unchecked, can lead to depression and anxiety.
Low self-esteem is usually self-inflicted. People’s opinions of themselves are often skewed towards the features they perceive as unfavorable while ignoring the many positives. Your view of yourself is the only one that truly matters, so what can you do to boost your self-esteem and feel more confident about who you are?
Your inner critic can be cruel. When you hear that little voice criticizing your abilities or the way you look, don’t listen to it. Learn to shut it out. If an acquaintance expressed nasty opinions about you, you wouldn’t hesitate to shut them out of your life. So why accept it from yourself? Learn to be mindful of your inner voice and notice it whenever it pops up in your mind. Rather than listening to the criticism, simply take those negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. For every criticism, your inner voice comes up with, think of three positive things. To feel better about yourself, you must start by treating yourself better.
One brilliant way to rid yourself of that persistent feeling of self-doubt is to shake things up. Do something different. That’s not to say you should change who you are or how you look, but making one little change can make a big difference in how you perceive yourself. If you’ve always had the same hairstyle or have worn the same clothes, why not mix it up? Cutting your hair short or growing it long could change everything. For men, if you’re clean-shaven, try growing a beard. Or if you have a beard, try shaving it off. What about a tattoo or an eye-catching new piercing? For an out-there look, check out a bone septum ring, found here. Only you can decide what’s right. But you must make a change you’re comfortable with, don’t go changing who you are.
In case the changes you made don`t make you feel comfortable you can always decide to remove your tattoo.
Exercise is a great way to feel good about yourself. It gives you a framework for setting positive targets, giving you confidence when you hit them. Couch to 5K is a great program to help beginners to get started. Just the act of getting outside and going for a casual run can do wonders. Breaking a sweat causes the body to release endorphins, which are known for making you feel happy.
There’s no better way to show a loved one you care than by giving them a treat. Show yourself some love by taking the time to enjoy the things that make you happy. It could be running a relaxing bath with some music and a big glass of wine, or it could be ordering a takeaway and watching your favorite film at home. Whatever makes you feel good, make time for it.
Think about these tips next time low self-esteem starts getting you down, and you will be better equipped to feel great about yourself.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Last night, Belvedere Vodka launched Quality over Quantity, a U.S. initiative to inspire mindful consumption and celebrate the brand’s all-natural philosophy and quality stance with an immersive mixology session with renowned lifestyle expert, Martha Stewart.
Guests joined Martha and Belvedere Global Education Manager, Alice Farquhar on Belvedere’s Instagram channel (@belvederevodka) to learn more about the initiative, mix up cocktails, and try their hand at creating the new superfood Belvedere Berry Zest cocktail. The half-hour session offered many light-hearted Martha-isms
Martha posts on Instagram the Drake “Switch” challenge featuring her Silver Saber Bespoke bottle tagging Drake himself and Snoop Dogg to join in with her!
The Quality over Quantity initiative is motivated by the values of the Belvedere brand, to be transparent and honest in making a lasting positive impact on the environment. Made from nature, Belvedere has introduced its newest range of quality, all-natural, superfood cocktails. Now more than ever, consumers are looking to brands that are authentic and passionate about nourishing the natural character of the earth and the people who live on it.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
The coronavirus pandemic has had drastic effects on how we live, work, and socialize. And while the health risks of COVID-19 are probably your main concern right now, you might also be dealing with the fallout of business and school closures, event postponement, and even vacation cancellations.
It might seem frivolous to be focused on your inability to take a trip. But if you'd been saving up for an island getaway or a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth, having your plans canceled due to pandemic can make you feel angry, depressed, and helpless. You might be wondering how to pull yourself out of that rut or whether you can recoup any of the expenses from the trip you never got to enjoy. You may even be wondering when you'll be able to plan a post-pandemic vacation. Let's talk about why you shouldn't feel guilty for being disappointed or asking for a refund -- and how long you might need to wait before vacationing again.
First, let's talk about whether you might be entitled to a refund for some of your travel expenses. According to a recent study, 82% of U.S. businesses that fail have cash flow problems. Not surprisingly, many Americans are experiencing cash flow problems of their own right now; while millions have been laid off, other business owners who are staying afloat are having to make major sacrifices and depend on government aid to do so.
As a result, any refund you can obtain will probably help your financial situation. It's best to wait until the date of your trip gets closer, as outright cancelations from an airline or hotel may result in a refund. You'll generally fare better if you personally aren't the one to initiate the cancellation. Rather than cancel out of fear, wait and see whether your reservations will be canceled by the carrier or hotel. You'll need to check the individual provider's policies and cross-reference them with FTC guidelines to make sure you're doing everything possible to get money back. It's helpful to know what these companies are required by law to do before making contact with them about your trip. The more you know, the better position you'll be in.
You might not get so lucky, however. Some companies may offer credits or reimbursements, which can be a way for these brands to stay afloat during this time. If that's the case, you might have to take what you can get. You might also want to check with your credit card company. Since the development of synthetic polymers exploded in the decades following 1940, we depend on plastic for everything from travel gear to the cards in our wallet. Your credit card company might actually offer some kind of cancellation coverage.
Although COVID-19 cancellations aren't covered by most travel insurance policies, you never know. Approximately one in six Colorado drivers operated their vehicles without insurance in 2012 -- and passengers who actually invest in travel insurance are even rarer. If that doesn't work, you might be able to request a discount from your travel provider for a future trip. That could come in handy if you're required to accept a credit or reimbursement.
One word of caution: remember that the person you talk to on the other end of the line is a human being who is likely very overwhelmed with the influx of angry callers. Although the situation is certainly frustrating, these individuals are doing the best they can in an unpredictable situation. Wait times may be long and answers may be dissatisfactory. Remind yourself that millions of others are experiencing the same issues and that customer service centers weren't set up for this kind of crisis. You may truly not be entitled to a refund, depending on the circumstances -- but a calm and kind attitude can go a long way in a stressful situation.
Whether or not you're able to obtain any kind of refund, you're probably going to feel disappointed that your trip couldn't happen as you planned. You might have been looking forward to your getaway for months or saved up all your PTO to manage a long weekend away. Coupled with the fact that you can't go to restaurants, go shopping, or see your friends during this time, it's easy to feel down in the dumps.
You might even feel guilty about being depressed over your canceled trip. After all, thousands of Americans have died from coronavirus already. Millions have lost their jobs. Graduations and weddings have been canceled. Births have happened without the support of loved ones. Being upset over a canceled trip to the Maldives or to Disney World might seem trivial.
But while it's important to maintain a healthy sense of perspective, it's also okay to grieve over these canceled plans. In fact, it's probably the best thing you can do. Trying to deny and minimize those feelings will only make you feel worse. Yes, recognizing your privilege is important -- but so is mourning a trip you never got to take due to circumstances beyond your control. There will certainly be other vacations in the future, of course. Still, it's okay to give yourself time to be angry or sad. It's only natural.
Once you come to terms with the fact that your vacation won't be happening, you might be looking for a means of escape. Planning a vacation is one of the best things for your mental health; in fact, data has shown that the benefits you reap from the planning process can be more pronounced than the once you experience from the actual vacation itself.
But of course, you won't want to risk planning another vacation that's destined for cancellation. Although one survey found that 72% of Americans are already making plans for their next vacation, a separate survey found that nearly half of Americans have already canceled their summer travel plans for this year. In other words, it's probably not looking good to take a trip in July. Some experts are recommending that travelers wait until at least the fall and early winter of 2020. Others may urge individuals to wait until disease experts have given the all-clear and all aspects of the economy have opened up (and have stayed that way). It really depends on what you're comfortable with and how travel might be impacted at your departure and destination hub.
Speaking of, you'll probably want to stick closer to home for your post-pandemic vacay. Domestic trips are definitely going to be the better way to go, as we don't know what international travel will look like in the coming months. Some people are even choosing to drive, rather than fly, and to go to a more familiar location to gain more control in an uncertain situation. You'll also want to consider your lodgings and accommodations before you book. For example, you should explore cancellation and postponement policies and assess options for self-sufficiency (like an in-room kitchen and fridge so you can avoid a buffet or crowded restaurant). While businesses will likely be open again by that time, they might be dealing with limited capacity and will likely be taking more precautions than before. Find out as much as you can about your airline carrier, hotel, and other businesses you plan to visit before you book and ask questions about how they plan to keep visitors safe.
And if you don't yet feel comfortable planning your next vacation? That's okay, too. You might not feel financially confident enough or you might be dealing with major stresses at home or at home that could impede you from leaving any time soon. Many museums and other tourist attractions have made their offerings available online, so you can enjoy a little escape from the comfort of your own home whenever you need a break.
While a canceled trip is undoubtedly frustrating and upsetting, we can acknowledge that loss and keep the bigger picture in mind. Eventually, we'll be in a position to start traveling again. Until that time, it's important that we stay home and do everything we can to keep our families and our neighbors safe. The more effectively we do that, the better position we'll be in to get back to normal.
The COVID-19 pandemic is not the only major event that working Americans should concern themselves with. Tax season is underway, and while the deadline is April 15th in most circumstances, it has been extended to July this year due to that pandemic. There has even been talk of a payroll tax cut to help business and households during this difficult time. Either way, if you have filed your taxes, you may have received some money, and you can invest it in your home if you so choose. If you have filed your taxes, you may have received some money, and you can invest it in your home if you so choose. If you need helping filing your taxes, you can speak to a credentialed tax expert online whether you're in New York City or anywhere else in the USA. If you are a business owner, you may have also undergone an audit, which can be done in more than one way. Perhaps the IRS audited you by mail, or you visit an IRS office in person, or a field audit is performed (the IRS visits your place of business) -- the three main types of tax audits. Assuming that you are in good financial shape, how can you put that money to good use?
Your home has a number of utilities in it that must run smoothly, and that certainly includes water, both to receive fresh water from the public utility and sewage disposal. What might go wrong with your plumbing? Often, your pipes, sinks, and showerheads will develop leaks, and this dripping water will add up fast. If your shower head is leaking just 10 drips per minute, that calculates to 500 gallons per year (that's enough for 60 loads of dishes in a typical dishwasher). In fact, statistics suggest that all leaking American homes combined waste an incredible one trillion gallons of water per year. Leaking water will pad the water bill, and this loose water will stain the drywall, spur mold growth, and pool on the floor or in the basement. Also, old toilets, sinks, tubs, and showerheads are not water efficient, and are padding your water bill even if they aren't leaking.
So, you can spend some of your tax return money on a plumber who can diagnose and fix any issue with your plumbing, from a backed-up sink to a leaking bathtub faucet. A plumber will fix or replace any leaking pipe to prevent leaks or water sprays, and they can also recommend new showerheads, toilets, and tubs that are more water-efficient, and install them if asked to. Such new features are an up-front expense, but they pay for themselves over time with savings, and they look nice the whole time.
Home offices have existed for years, but in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, they are taking on new significance. Some experts even say that home offices may become the new norm after the pandemic ends, and whether or not they're right, it may be a smart idea to invest your tax refund money this way anyway. Home offices are popular and practical for many reasons. For example, they don't require any commuting, so that saves you time and takes a car (and its air pollution) off the road. A regular office is also rather noisy and dirty, and the noises make it difficult to concentrate on phone calls while dirty air, carpets, and doorknobs contribute to sick day rates. You dodge all of that by working at home, where the environment is clean and quiet, but you will need to fully furnish that office first. If you couldn't afford that earlier, maybe you can now.
Current technology allows working professionals to conduct business anywhere, from their homes to a chartered jet to a hotel room, and you can easily take advantage of that. Designate a room to be your home office, and get the right furniture in place, from a computer desk and swivel chair to filing cabinets and shelf units, and set aside room for a printer or fax machine, too. You will need a PC or a laptop with good video chat services and a reliable internet connection, so you can send and receive files via email and Cloud data storage alike.
With a proper webcam and microphone, you can have a virtual presence in any meeting, and this saves a lot of time and money that would be spent on traveling somewhere in person for a meeting (and cuts down on pollution). You will need either a wireless adapter or an ethernet cable to connect your computer to your home's router and be sure your device is well connected to the printer and fax machine. Make use of binders and folders for printed documents and organize them, and ensure that your device has proper virus protection software. Virus protection programs do cost money, but that's worth it if you can shield your PC from viruses that try to steal, corrupt, or delete files and personal information of yours.
Home remodeling is very skill-intensive and requires the hiring of a crew of contractors, and if you can afford this, then you can totally remake one or more rooms in your house to refresh the entire thing. About one in three home remodeling jobs includes the entire house, and the kitchen and master bathroom are popular targets for remodeling in particular. After all, a clean, fresh, and well-stocked kitchen is the perfect place for cooking and serving food (if you have no dining room), and remodelers can upgrade or replace just about anything you ask them to.
For example, you can spend your tax return money on workers who will sand down and refinish your cabinet doors, or replace them entirely. The old countertop can be removed and replaced with a tough, attractive model with no scratches or burns or stains on it, and you can hire plumbers to have a brand new sink installed, too. Flooring experts can remove old tiles and put down new ones, and your old appliances such as the stove or fridge can get replaced with clean, modern models that have more features. This is a good investment, too, since it boosts the property's value when you put it on the real estate market. Kitchen and master bathroom renovations can yield an ROI (return on investment) as high as 70-80%.
It may be tempting to spend your tax return money on a vacation or a new car, but if you redirect your money to your house, you can make it a much more practical and comfortable place to be, and that investment will pay off for years to come.