FINDING ARIZONA KITCHENS: STRAWBERRY POUND CAKE

February 7, 2020 Britt Johnson

Valentine’s Day is near and since you have already broke the diet and ate girl scout cookies, you might as well mix up this treat and share it with someone you love. Did you (not want to) know they call it pound cake because you add a pound of sugar, butter and flour? That is why one slice is enough. This is a pretty, and pretty easy cake to make.

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE CAKE

1 Pint Strawberries (fresh)

1 Cup Butter
3 Cups Sugar
5 Large Eggs
3 Cups Flour (Sifted)
1 Tsp Salt
1/2 Tsp Baking Soda
1 Cup Buttermilk
1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
*OPTIONAL 1/2 Tsp Red Food Coloring
FOR THE GLAZE:
2 Tbsp Strawberry Puree
2 Cups Powdered Sugar
1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
1 Tsp Lemon Juice

Directions:

1. Start by washing your strawberries and de-stemming them. Puree them and set aside 2 tablespoons for the glaze.

2. Next, add the puree to a sauce pan and reduce it for 15-20 minutes. The final product should be around 1/2 cup and thick. Cool to room temperature.

3. Pre-heat your oven to 325 and prep your bunt pan with the method of your choosing.

4. In a mixing bowl beat your room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy 4-6 minutes on high speed. Add your eggs 1 at a time.

5. Turn your mixer to a low speed before you add your flour. Add the flour in increments as well to avoid spilling out of your mixer. Finally add your salt and baking soda and scrape down the sides of your bowl. Be careful not to over beat your flour.

6. Buttermilk is next to add to your dough. Combine lemon juice with milk to DIY Buttermilk at home.

7. Mix in your vanilla extract and your strawberry puree. If you chose this is when you would add food color if you really want to brighten your mixture. Pour into bunt pan and bake for 60 minutes or until you can toothpick check your cake. Stick a toothpick in and if it comes our dry, its done! (One time check per pick)

8. The cake takes a while to cook and cool so I don’t recommend prepping the glaze too far in advance. When you’re ready whisk all ingredients together: lemon, powered sugar and strawberry puree. Check the consistency of the glaze by seeing how it runs down a spoon. Add more powder sugar if its too runny and more lemon juice to liquefy it.

I love making this cake and how delicious it was. It serves beautifully with fresh strawberries and with coffee or tea in the mornings for a sweet treat. Let me know your thoughts bellow; I would love to try making other seasonal fruit versions.

XoXo Britt

JANUARY FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS

January 31, 2020 Britt Johnson

Happy New Year Y’all! It is a new decade and we’re brining back our Final Five Favorites Jose and I are obsessing over in the month. Somethings maybe the latest and greatest and some are your grandmother’s remedies, but either way we are sharing in hopes you learn a little more about us. Also, how fun is this going to be to read in 2030 when EVERYTHING is different.

BRITT’S FIVE

SOLVED - A new podcast you have to check out. It’s an interactive podcast where the listener hears a case from start to finish/death, interviews from suspects and gets to decide who the killer is all in under 30 minutes. I have yet to solve a case and you would think with all the Forensic Files I watch I would have. Check it out on apple podcasts, here.
CHARCUTERIE BOARDS- This trend is def 2019, but I made my very first one by myself in 2020 and I am obsessed. I mean who doesn’t love meats and cheeses and nuts and fruits? But follow down the Pinterest rabbit hole and discover ones for movie theater snacks, Valentine’s Day, and even breakfasts. Follow me on Pinterest to see what boards are inspiring me.
JAZZ MUSIC - Putting on background ambience is huge for me, but lately I have been craving lively piano. After watching a documentary about Jaco Pastorius I started re-listening to jazz and classical jazz musicians- flutes, trumpets I dig it all.
THE BIGGEST LOSER -Its back for you, but new for me. In the first 15 minutes I was obsessed with the trainer- not the guy, the girl! She lost all that weight and has so much mental strength; she’s a great inspiration! I am looking forward to this season. Are you watching? Who are you rooting for? Red or Blue team? #TEAMRED
TALKING WITH STRANGERS - Malcom Gladwell’s new book is phenomenal, duh! I am only a third of the way in, but his voice as an author makes it such an easy and interesting read. I love that I can apply this book in my daily life and working conversations.

Charcuterie Board / Meat and Cheese Board

JOSE’S FIVE:

OOOPS ALL BERRIES CEREAL - Classic taste, smell, and flavor! Nothing has beaten my ritual one bowl each night. It's not often I get to enjoy it but when I do I try to enjoy every bite. I was able to get it big bag style to last me quite some time (or not).
NARDWUAR - I recently found these masterpieces of interviews on YouTube. Each one of these videos has me laughing and learning so much. In summary, this kooky character interviews hip hop/rap artist about deep culture and history that it even amazes them how he finds out things. If you like history, humor, or even just want to see people lose it these clips are for you.
SUNSET CRUISE BY BOOGIELO- Our new friends and recent guests have made a banger of a hit. This is my song going home from work. The lyrics make me smile and think what is in store next for them.
RESEEDING - We spent one weekend being serious homeowners. We chose to take care our lawn to help prep for Spring. Since we have two large lawn areas, we made a big trip to Home Depot. I feel now I understand: “We grow with our home”. Each home project is growth for both of us.
TANDUM WORKOUTS -Working out with my wife has made it afun and easy transition back to a work out routine. It has also been a new experience teaching another person certain exercises. Britt has made the whole new experience a joy to be apart of.

Home Depot ReSeeding Lawn January Favorite Things

It felt like a very long month and it was hard for me to resist putting up Valentine’s Day decorations. We look forward to the Leap Year Month and celebrating LOVE.

XoXo

Britt

WHAT THE HEALTH

January 26, 2020 Britt Johnson

These last few weeks have brought a whole new focus to the word: Health. Working in the industry the last 6 months, learning more of the clinical side and working side by side with professionals has me not only value but question health. Personally in the family some health ups and downs hit home and what better than to share my thoughts in this week’s blog post.

I need to start off by saying I am not a certified medical professional so do not take my advice over one. Okay, now that that PC is out of the way let me speak my heart!

We first have to take care of ourselves before we can expect to take care of others. No this isn’t “self care” this is making sure we listen our our bodies and give it what it needs. Nourish was my work of the year last year and this means really answering to our bodies. For everyone this is different. For me it is getting my body moving. If I am not exercising a few times a week the stress builds up, my anxiety rises, my mood swings, and self esteem is down. But when I can get some gym sessions, neighborhood runs or a yoga flow I am immediately in a better mental and of course physical state! I like to think of this analogy like an airplane safety precaution: make sure you put on your air mask and life vest before you help those around you. Fill your bucket first, so you have all the love to give others.

Another piece of this puzzle is what we put inside our bodies. I am learning more and more everyday its not just food, but drinks, vitamins, medications, everything we consume is absorbed into our bodies, our cells. Why would we want to poison our selves? I know cheese is poison to some, but it is knowing what your body can do with the things you consume. I know I am sensitive to almonds, but sometimes choose the stomach bloating so I can have one of my favorite nuts. Or its even grabbing Canes Chicken on the way home from work because its a late night and I am craving it after a long hard day it is a mental reward as well. It is all about balance. BUT what I am here to advocate NOT to do is overly consume those toxic things! Intermittent fasting works for me because I am not a breakfast person, but it might not work for you. Apple cider vinegar lemon shots work for me every morning but that might not for you.

On to some seriousness. Last week my Father put himself in the ICU, loosing nearly 9 pints of blood because he chose to intoxicate his body to a point of almost no return. Isn’t that funny word? INTOXICATE. It literally has the word toxic in it. Think about that for a second. If a glass of wine or a shot of tequila makes your body feel good then have it, but if it will in turn cause you to hurt physically and or emotionally, damage relationships, and overall alter your day to day life than why would you want to give your single chance at living a shorter shelf life?

I meet 90 year olds everyday, in fact the oldest resident we have in our facility is 101 years young! This month my grandfather turned 90 and the family gathered to celebrate this monumental moment. What is the secret? I ask everyone I meet over 90 years of age of 50 years of marriage (that’s another post). The most common answer I get is staying busy and happy. Not one or the other its both. Keeping active, just like my grandpa who still does his daily walks, helps with family projects, and of course our annual tamale making. But I have seen him build homes, repair roofs, tend to gardens, drive thousands of miles, and win at hundred of Domino games. At his birthday celebration he exclaimed:”If i had to do it all over, i would.”

That is a life worth living. I can’t tell you much more than that. You can pack the hand sanitizer, cough drops, warm and fuzzy socks and wear a mask but you still might catch something. I received the FluShot for the first time this year and still got sick. I found out that this vaccine was for a diff to strain that what this season’s influence brought us. I wash my hands leaving every hospital, when I get home I shower of physically and mentally my day. One day I walked out of an elevator at a hospital and the entire floor was wearing masks- i suited up as well. Skincare routines and SPF are required daily for me along with with vitamins and minimum 40 oz of water a daily (working on more, I know). I plan on living till at least 100. I got plenty of life to live and I hope you reading this are right there with me living our best (healthy) lives.

XoXo

Britt

FINDING ARIZONA KITCHENS: ALBONDIGAS SOUP

January 11, 2020 Britt Johnson

Albondigas (Mexican Meatball) Soup is one of my top 3 favorite soups! Its full of flavor, delicious meatballs and juicy vegetables. Growing up my best friend would have it cooking in her home every Friday and the smell just brings back so many memories. I saw a close friend making it and asked for the recipe. After a few tweaks and measurements, its perfect, and I am ready to share it with your kitchen too!

Albondigas Recipe Card from the Finding Arizona Kitchens

Ingredients:

1 Stalk Celery
1 Bag Baby Carrots
2-3 Large Potatoes
1 Onion
6 Cloves of Garlic
4-6 Ears of Corn
2-3 Large Zucchini
1 Bunch Cilantro
3/4 Cup Uncooked Rice
1 Can Diced Tomatoes
1 Can Tomato Sauce
1 lb. ground beef
2 Eggs
2-3 Cubes Chicken Bouillon

Directions:

1. Dice onion and garlic. Saute in a large soup pot half of your onion and garlic in olive oil until golden- not brown. While you are watching the onion you can begin to prep your meatballs.

2. Mix in a bowl ground beef, remaining garlic and onion, cilantro, uncooked rice and pepper and salt if desired. Chill in fridge and allow flavors to blend and meat to get cold. Meatballs are easier to form the colder your mixture.

3. When your onions are golden in your pot, add diced tomatoes and let simmer to blend flavors.

4. Add tomato sauce and water to create a 3/4 full pot. Add bouillon and bring to a rolling boil before you add in any meatballs. But, while you’re waiting you can continue to prep your meatballs.

5. Using your hands, roll meat mixture into meat balls all the same size and place them, softly and one by one, in boiling water 20 minutes. Cover. Meatballs will begin to float once fully cooked.

6. After 15 minutes of the meatballs boiling add vegetables chopped to your preference of a bite size and stir occasionally. Be very gently the more aggressive you are the more your meatballs break in your soup.

7. One pot will serve between 8-12 people. It is best serve garnished with fresh diced onion, cilantro, lime, and crushed red peppers. Leftovers, if you have any are good for 3 days. I also paired it with a garlic avocado sourdough toast.

This soup is perfect for the chilly weather and also goes well will all the tamales you have left over from the holidays. Thanks for getting in the kitchen with me, again. Looking forward to more recipes.

XoXo Britt

ROARING 2020’s

January 4, 2020 Britt Johnson

New Year New Hair - Resolutions and More Blog

Here is my obligatory New Years Resolution Post. I was inspo-ed not FOMO-ed in fact more JOMO-ed that I didn’t have a big New Year’s Eve and a plan to start new on the first, but more focused on preparing to enter a new decade with good practices and know my voice so I can let it roar!

New Years Resolutions are defined by Merriam-Webster as “which a person resolves to continue good practices, change an undesired trait or behavior, to accomplish a personal goal, or otherwise improve their life.” BORING! And no, this is not a 5th grade essay. This is Brittany Acevedo using her voice on this amazing platform and putting out into the universe what I am doing for myself and hope to inspire you to take action for yourself, no matter what day of the year it is.

Preparing for the New Year I, of course, made the plan to join the gym again- no excuses for weather or locations- PLUS, Planet Fitness has hydro massagers so I get a 10 minute massage every session! Jose has a membership and this is one of the things we bonded over when we first met and I love reliving these new love butterflies again.

That takes care of my body, but for my mind I already started carrying the mantra: “Too blessed to be stressed.” I used this and felt this way throughout the kitchen construction project, carried it through the holidays and into the new year. Jose sent me an instagram profile reading January 2020 tarot and he couldn’t have described Virgo better. Watch here and see if your sign is accurate too!

I also wanted to make a simple but BIG change and decided to chop off my hair. It’s unique but trendy- long bob with one side a little longer. I’m obsessed and I felt more confident January 1.

Lastly, picking a word of he year. I have done this 2 years now and find it helpful when I a feeling lost or need re-centering. This year my word is RELATIONSHIPS. I entered 2020 as a wife and not that I am supporting “labels,” but recognizing this added responsibility makes our “ship” a priority. Next, friendships. Adult friendships are tricky and I want to take this decade to really nurture the “ships” I’ve made in Arizona. Our village is strong and we can all make it stronger. AND always appreciate my family ships- make time to see them and touch base more.

Fun things up our sleeves for 2020 focused on one thing at a time. I promise to keep you all updated the best I can and appreciate you following our journey in 2019 and just wait to see what 2020 has in store! Happy Decade everyone!

XoXo

Britt

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS- SAN DIEGO CHRISTMAS

December 29, 2019 Britt Johnson

Another Christmas in San Diego and it was perfect, this time we took Winter with us and she now has her new favorite vacation spot, Imperial Beach, CA. Our first Christmas as married couple one of things shared with us was making sure we have holiday traditions. Although this holiday we went through major kitchen construction we still managed to make it feel like Christmas.

Our precious 1949 home is teaching us so much about handiwork, but this time, it was over our head. After the wedding we thought we had a kitchen pipe clogged that could be solved by a snake or even a hydro flush, but when your line collapses, all you can do is get a new one. Thankfully we found Neighborhood Plumber- through a family friend and not only was he nice in the process, but also to our wallets. After four days and nights, 45 feet of concrete was jackhammered and a new kitchen line was placed. The finishing touches of concrete and a new faucet were added and now we’re cooking. Literally.

As husband and wife we knew this project would hit our Christmas budget hard and agreed that it was our present to each other; we’re thankful we don’t have kids that we have to announce this too. Because kitchen construction means dust EVERYWHERE we didn’t put up a tree, or lights. Our trip to San Diego would be our Christmas fix.

We left Christmas Eve; it was raining hard the entire ride and on top of that it was Winter’s longest car ride! She didn’t sleep and after a few potty stops we were celebrating Christmas Eve in Imperial Beach.

Christmas Eve for us is spent ant my mom and dad’s house with our entire family filled with food, drinks, and fun!White elephant and Saran Wrap Christmas games are part of our Christmas traditions. I’m sure you’ve seen the video where you wear a Santa hat and baking mitts and take turns rolling doubles to open up a nearly impossible present or Saran Wrapped gifts. This is so much fun and even though Jose and I will be alternating holiday locations I will make sure this one stays.

Tamale time! Although we have only been doing this the passed three years, now that I know how to make tamales it is a must for the holidays. Next year I want to try olives! If it’s at my house, we just might! Although I’ll be missing making them with my papa, he is turning 90 in January and sharing stories over spreading masa is so fun.

One thing no matter near or far and big or small our family is we will continue to make and send Holiday cards. I look forward to designing them, selecting our favorite photos from the year and sharing them with our loved ones. If you want one next year be sure to send me your address.

As we head into the new year we have a lot up our sleeve but more importantly putting ourselves first because what I kept repeating through the kitchen chaos was, “I’m too blessed to be stressed.” That is exactly how I felt on Christmas too, blessed; surrounded by the ones I love the most with everything I need.

As I mentioned, we took Winter with us to San Diego and she experienced her first time at the beach. She doesn’t like pools but the beach was another story- she loved it! Her paws running up and down the sand and chasing the tide faster than ever made all our heart’s smile.

I hope you got everything you wanted for the holidays and more! Santa did bring me the two things I asked for- a new kitchen line and a mixer! So get ready for some amazing recipes from the Finding Arizona Kitchen! Have a happy and healthy new year! Thank you for reading and following our journey.

XoXo

Britt

FINDING AZ HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

December 10, 2019 Britt Johnson

Last year’s gift guide was a success so we brought it back! Surprise! Everyone is doing GG this year. But here is what makes our different: 1) Local brands- but don’t worry you can still buy online if your not local to AZ and support them 2) Budget friendly- sorry no $50 candles or Designer Shoes 3) It is for everyone- seriously you can find something for everyone on this list! Enjoy and Happy Holidays and of course Merry Christmas!

Skincare-

#Selfcare is not just a LADY thing! In fact every time I do a mask at home, Jose joins too! Get your man a nice skincare routine this year for him. He doesn’t want to smell like roses, but he like the way it makes his face feel.

Or if this is breaking your budget we have suggested a Burt’s Bees Essential Travel Set to ease into a skincare routine. Nails and lips count as skin too, don’t forget it!

Finally this Aztec Clay is a miracle. Use it for DIY masks, add to your bath, sport treatments, and many more. Use it once and you’ll be hooked.

K-Duo Coffee Maker- K cups for weeks days and full pots for weekends- get the best of both worlds with a duo coffee pot. I have had my Keurig for almost 10 years and even though it’s going strong I find myself making 2-3 cups some mornings. This was on our Wedding Registry and has now made it to our Gift Guide.

KitchenAid Stand Mixer- I can’t’ believe I have gone this long without a mixer. Do you know how hard it is to cream butter and sugar by hand? Save your pennies and invest in this beautiful mixer. It is a timeless piece that will get more use than you can even think of right now- especially looking chic with the designer bowls. This was another gift that made its way from our Wedding Registry to the Gift Guide.

Weighted Blanket- This is the adult’s equivalent of the Tickle Me Elmo gift craze. You see these everywhere- grocery stores, furniture stores, mall kiosks. I can’t personally speak from experience but others have raved over it and highly recommended for restless leg syndrome. I wouldn’t mind Santa getting me one.

Smart home

Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip- because why have Alexa turn 1 light on when she can do the whole strip! What we love about this is programing for holidays. For example the Christmas tree and lights are all connected so at night I can say “Alexa, Santa is coming!” and all the lights come on.

FixD- Scan and reader for your car! Turn your car into a smart car- know why your check engine light is on and get maintenance reminders. Everyone can use this! I definitely would have had this for my trips back and forth to college!

Sleep Tracking Pad- Technology tracks everything why not your sleep? I have tried my watch and my phone but nothing is accurate. This pad actually goes on your bed so it monitors how and when you sleep.

Nintendo Entertainment System- Yeah you can get an Play Station or an X box but you won’t keep up with the teenagers and their skills at video games now. So instead, make gaming fun again with an old school Nintendo. We love this deal on Amazon because it also comes with the original games! It is the only gaming system I will allow in the house. Lol.

Robot Vacuum- This was the Cyber Monday I came for. I tested a iRobot model a while back and didn’t love it but after finding a different model and testing it out, I am a true believer. When you have pets and concrete floors you need to sweep everyday it seems in AZ and this saves me so much time and is a little entertainment for the animals too! This model has the mopping mechanism- wow game changer!

Umbrella- We have gotten more rain this year in Phoenix than I can remember and my rain boots are getting a ton of use but it is now time to upgrade the umbrella. We recently went to Mexico City and you can read about our trip and packing list here, but on it was an umbrella. Not a cute one like this, but still necessary. I love this one because it also serves as a great prop for photo shoots plus great price for a Kate Spade product!

5 Minute Journal- Great gift for yourself even to remember to take time in the new year for a fresh start. This is 5 minutes journal prompts and does great to promote mental health. Our mind is a muscle and we must exercise it.

Flexible Tripod- We have had ours for a year and use it for everything and every device. You don’t have to be a famous YouTuber or Instagram model to need a tripod. This one even has been allowed at amusement parks and sporting events – take that Selfie Stick!

Power tools- As you become an adult kitchen appliances and power tools become part of the Christmas Present norm. This power hand saw is a NEED for any homeowner and at a great price too!

Mevo- How did we go live on our Facebook for the Finding Arizona Wedding with such a stunning camera? Meet Mevo- stream full HD or Record in 4k!

Book- You can always gift a favorite book. Last year we were gifted Judd Apatow’s book Sick in the Head from our Book Club and recommend it for comedy and or book lovers everywhere.

Music- Vinyl is back! Everyone is getting record machines so make sure you add a classic to their collection! We always look to score at thrift shops but this classic deserves to be in everyone record crate: Al Green Greatest Hits.

LOCAL LOVE

#Sage Squad! You see the Sage Aubrey handbags everywhere. Who wouldn’t want a fantastic high quality bag made from a passionate and inspiring woman? I LOVE MY SAGE BAG! Now she’s adding more to her amazing collection- wallets and scarves and of course gorgeous colors like this red that’s to die for! Yes please Santa! You can order online or if your local you get a special in person delivery.

Manor- This contemporary shoe store in the heart of central phoenix is not only a great place for the latest sneakerheads but a great community supporter for events and run clubs. This place makes great holiday gifts online or instore ranging from shoes to accessories. If you don’t know what to get him- head to Manor.

Indestructible Shoes- I have been in the market for some hiking boots for years now but haven’t found any I love- These shoes are cute and practical PLUS the price point is great. You can get a pair for just about any industry or play! Best part is we have a discount code! You receive 20% OFF using the Code: BRITA67

Simple Jane- We met Simple Jane a few years back on the podcast and fell in love with all their products right off the bat. Not only do these women do great things to support the community but their product is to swear by. Their latest is the CinnaBomb CBD Lip Balm and I cannot get enough of it! Stock your stuffers and everyone you know with it!

Wow! That makes up our 2019 Gift Guide! What were honestly gifting is a new kitchen sink line but that’s another blog post to come and a girl can wish cant she? I hope Santa brings you everything you want this year and more! Merry Christmas from the Finding Arizona Podcast!

XoXo

Britt

NOVEMBER FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS

November 29, 2019 Britt Johnson

Winter is here and we are in the full holiday spirit! FIrst it is thanksgiving and feeling oh so grateful for each other and what we are already blessed with! The rainy days has us spending more time indoors and here are the 5 things we each appreciated in November 2019.

BRITT’S FIVE

PIANO LESSONS -I recently started relearning the piano. On Mondays for 1 hour I sit at our piano go through my scales and learn to play a song or two. I want to keep it up going in to the new year.
BECOMING- I finally finished ready Becoming by Michelle Obama. I received it last year for Christmas and found little time in between wedding planning. But once I got into it again I could not put it down. I really loved reading it now as a newlywed and find some similarities in the Obama relationship and views on marriage. I would definitely recommend this book
HDTGM PODCAST - I don’t know why my podcast subscriptions go away over time but I rediscovered How Did This Get Made- a podcast about B movies and hilarious comedy banter provided by Paul Scheer and Jason Mantzoukas and immediately resubscribed. Even if you dont know the movies you will laugh the whole episode and find yourself searching for them on Amazon Prime the next day.
HOMEMADE RECIPES -From cookies to soups with the chilly weather we are taking to the oven more and stirring up magic in the FInding Arizona Kitchens. Some of my favorite recipes have already been featured on the blog: Zuppa Toscana, Italian Wedding Cookies, Puppy Biscuits, and soon more to come!
DECORATING SEASON - While we are lighting the sweater weather candles and placing the pumpkins on the porch I am also taking the time to organize each room of our house. Almost Marie Kondoing - when is the last time it brought us joy? Organizing bins and containers and making sure everything has purpose and placement. I am in no means breaking the budget in fact just repurposing things in the house and finding a few goodies at At Home and of course - Goodwill.

JOSE’S FIVE:

DISNEY+ APP - Yes! I know pretty easy pick! Britt and I have been enjoying it so much! Reliving our childhood through classic Disney channel movies. On top of which it has a new favorite the Mandalorian, which is my new personal must-see.
THE HOTTEST TAKE PODCAST - This podcast has been so much fun to be apart of. I think it is also fun for the cast that puts it on. The point of the podcast is come up with crazy “take” on a subject and then defend it. It can basically be on anything. Some of my favorites so far: Alphabet, Indoor Volleyball, Thanksgiving songs.
POCKET WORLD 3D- This little game app is for the those who enjoy model making but don’t enjoy sticky fingers. It is model builder with dynamic cultural pieces from around the world.
DUO LINGO- I’m trying to learn more Spanish. What I have started to do is spend 1 half-hour every day with the app. This has been fun for me because it’s fast and fun. I am still working my way past things I already know.
TOASTER STRUDEL -The past week I got to enjoy this snack. I forgot how much I enjoyed this pastry. It has been a nice touch to enjoy these with new toaster we got for our wedding.

December is to bring more holiday love and memories of falling in love- our engagement anniversary. Were planning a BIG construction project in December and a trip with WInter! Looking forward to sharing and hope you all enjoy the little things the final month of the decade.

XoXo

Britt

FINDING AZ WEDDING VILLAGE OF VENDORS

November 22, 2019 Britt Johnson

We all know the saying: It takes a village. That statement couldn’t be proven truer in the wedding world. Thirty days post wedding and after watching the new Iliza Shlesinger: Unveiled special the other night I was in tears laughing and relating with the wedding planning stories. But it also surfaced a re-appreciation for our vendors and the magic they pulled for our special day. On this blog I’ll be sharing not only our amazing wedding photos but the other stars in our show- who they are and why you need to use them.

Front Paige Events- Paige is amazing! She went from podcast guest, to wedding planner to lifelong friend. She has a passion for love- sharing it, creating it, all of it! After sitting down for a full episode on the Finding Arizona Podcast with Paige she asked to be our wedding planner and a year and half later her vision came to life too! No detail gets passed up and my favorite thing about her services are the personal touches she adds to each event. We were very open for ideas and décor but one thing we were very excited about creating was a teepee altar. After back and forth and wind and rain and ups and downs the original plan fell through, but Paige showed up with plan B and it turned out even better than plan A anticipated. You need Paige in your life- not only for the day of but the process leading up to it! “Get Paiged” here.

Beyond the Mask Photography- Katrina has been our photographer for a few projects, but this one took the cake! Pun intended! I asked Katrina to be a part of our wedding and she was all yeses! She specializes in boudoir and intimate weddings but you can absolutely see her talent with all subjects. Katrina was a part of our family that day. She got all the details from getting ready, table settings and gift tables to the big moments like the ceremony and the family photos. Her gift is taking a simple moment a creating a memory to last a lifetime. You can reach Katrina here!

Hey Lo Company- We met Lois through the Honey Book- a fantastic place to initiate creative collaborations. Her passion for her art is noticed the second you interact with her. Lois was accommodating for trials and open for feedback. The day of the wedding she was early, extra prepared and left myself and my maid of honor looking flawless. Her contouring is amazing and she uses her own products she had been developing for years behind the scenes. You can book Lois here and learn more about her product launch as well. Post wedding we had her on the podcast for a full interview to learn more about how she got started and he experience working with us! Check it out here.

Danielle Durak- Danielle was guest #181. She came in and chatted with us sharing her passion, but when she opened up her guitar case to strum some acoustic melodies on the podcast I started crying. Her voice, her passion, her talent! Wow! When she asked to be a part of our wedding I cried again. Danielle was our musical talent during the ceremony and a family friend after said he wanted to tip her to play the whole night! We didn’t have any specific songs to request and we trusted that her magical music would set the right tone and it did! You can check out Danielle live at a local venue near you by learning more here. Then, be sure to listen to our full episode with her.

Mezcal Carreno- Abel Arriaga is a co-founder of an incredible Mezcal. Abel reached out to us as an advocate for community building and was 100% on board for sharing his love on the day of our love. Our cocktail hour featured the traditional “open bar” but we also gave our guests a full Mezcal tasting experience. After the ceremony- Abel followed us back inside where we could partake in our first drink as husband and wife and it is one moment I will never forget. You can visit their website to learn where to purchase the bottles in your area as well as what local places are featuring them. We also had the pleasure of having Abe on our podcast sharing more about the brand’s story and our wedding tasting event. Episode will be airing soon!

Emerald Nomad-Speaking of drinks, let me tell you about our friends at Emerald Nomad! We met Nakia, on the podcast, of course and shared so many commonalities: people, places, mindset. We clicked and when we asked them to be apart of our wedding they were more than happy to work with us and of course, Paige, whom Nakia knew from previous projects. Renee was our bartender and point of contact for the event. She was friendly, accommodating and went above and beyond to add details to the bar for our special day. We chose to purchase all the alcohol and mixers before hand and made sure she had everything from shot glasses to straws. Emerald Concepts provided us a stunning black and white frosted glass bar and it blended so well with our décor. Listen to our full episode with Nakia of Emerald Concepts here and check out their site to reserve their stunning trailer for your next event.

Every Impression Counts - EIC has worked with us on so many projects so it was only natural that we had them be involved in our wedding. Our biggest wish was to have our friends and family watch the ceremony no matter where they were at in the world- so we went LIVE on Facebook. Not only did the team capture the set up through the speeches but they also separately broadcasted our ceremony from the Finding Arizona Podcast Facebook Page and you can rewatch it here. Dustin, Dre, Cole and Colton work countless hours to produce phenomenal pieces of art to last and share forever. I cannot wait to see our finished product. You can learn more about EIC and what they can do for you here.

Mustache Pretzels- Greg from Mustache Pretzels is a two time guest of the podcast and owner of the amazing creation. It explains itself but yet everyone always gets a kick out of it! We loved incorporating these tasty treats into our cocktail hour and paired nice with our charcuterie board. You can learn more about where to find a delicious mustache pretzel here.

Dang Fine Rentals- Of course you know Dang Fine Rentals! If you don’t, you don’t get out much in Phoenix. Meet Matiana- creative entrepreneur and overall just the person you want on your team, working with you and sharing a cocktail with. Matiana is also part of the Know Tribe and after connecting at so many events we finally had her on the podcast and became great friends since. But back to Dang Fine! Their entire inventory is GORGEOUS! They are constantly pushing boundaries as far as displays go but with the help of some of their amazing pieces they took our backyard wedding from fine to Dang fine! We used 2 sweetheart chairs and table for our dinner spot and even created a comfortable chic sitting area with chairs, tables and couch and a rug from their Mexican Boho Inspo Collection. Check out their site to view their entire inventory here.

Chris Andrade- Our Chef was Chris! Full details on how we found him and our full tasting on a previous blog post you can read here. Our chef is phenomenal, from the tasting to the final plates we couldn’t have asked for anything better. We honestly could not get a full picture of the buffet because it was never full! When Jose andI were making our rounds everyone mentioned how full they were and you rarely here that at a wedding. You need Chris to cater your next event- send him an email beyondhomeec@gmail.com.

Aneesh- Our officiant was the voice of the Valley you know and love Aneesh from the Morning Mess! Aneesh was guest #127 and you have to listen to this throw back episode. He offered his services and when it finally was time to meet up discuss our personal vows and the ceremony this was one of my favorite memories of wedding planning. Outside on the patio sharing my love for the one I was marrying- it was beautiful and I thank Aneesh for helping us find the right words and guiding us through a life changing moment.

Celebrity Tux and Tails- This company came highly recommended by our wedding planner Paige and after learning that the owner has been in the industry for decades and now has his whole family learning the tricks of the trade we were happy to support and have on our special day. They were friendly, fast, accommodating, and budget friendly! Everything you need for your tux rentals can be found here.

Design Squeeze- Last BUT most definitely not least was Brittany! She designed our wedding invitations and stationary. You can read the full details of the seamless process from a previous blog post here. We also invited Britt on the podcast and that will be airing soon! I love how the theme of our invites carried into our forever yard with the planting of the smooth agaves. We even have framed her watercolor RSVP! Contact Brittany here to see her amazing creations and use her for your special events!

WOW! I know that was a lot but there are not enough words to say THANKS to our Village of Vendors that made the Finding Arizona Wedding so incredibly special. NOW you have to scroll through the rest of these gems and let me know your favorite photo in the comments!

XoXo

Britt

NASCAR WIVES: FINDING ARIZONA VIP'S WITH KNOW TRIBE AT ISM RACEWAY

November 15, 2019 Britt Johnson

KNOW TRIBE FINDING ARIZONA PODCAST AT ISM RACEWAY NASCAR

First time at a Nascar race and I could not not blog about it! What was I expecting and how did we get to be apart of this amazing experience I have to share. Not everyday does someone get to tour the garages while the drivers are prepping for qualifying laps or meet Jimmy Johnson’s publicist.

I am not here to boast but to feel honored to be apart of the Know Tribe and great opportunities like this one that we get to be apart of. Sarah Benkin started the Know Book + Tribe 2 years ago and we have been blessed to watch and support this journey. You can read all about the Tribe at the launch we attended this year here. When we got the invite to attend we said yes in a heart beat. Thanks to a helpful post of Facebook I had suggestions on what to wear and made sure ear plugs were part of the OOTD.

KNOW TRIBE FINDING ARIZONA PODCAST ISM RACEWAY OOTD NASCAR

On the drive over we were joking about the direction they lap and the rules of the game. Once we arrived we were quickle toured by Julie Giese ISM Raceway’s first and only female president. She was humble and her passion for the sport was palpable. We toured infield inside the garages watching the cars get pushed to inspections before their qualifying laps. Before the 200 lap race we rushed up to our suite with a beautiful view of the entire track and lite bites and drinks.

Upstairs not only did we get to hang out with Julie but we also met Jimmy Johnson’s publicist Amy Walsh Stock. She was again very humble and after leaning more about her new candle business and that she is in the KNOW CHARLOTTE Book we were celebrating with the other KNOW Women in the room. This was a pure moment of gratitude- to be surrounded with such powerful women not only in the NASCAR industry but also Construction, Health and Beauty, Marketing and PR.

Then, I look over at my handsome husband- who is my plus one for life and no one I would rather have experience this with me and I thank him for letting me into the podcast and allowing me to water it and nurture it and love it while it continues to bloom. Until our next adventure together.

XoXo

Britt