As we grow older, we start uncover beautiful truths of life. Like, time spent with family is most enjoyed when the phones aren’t around. Or that happiness is not found, it’s chosen. One of my favorite life truths of all time is being sure to make time for friends.

This sounds easy, no? Hang out with friends, feel fulfilled. But when work hours get crazy, fur babies (or real babies) need you at home, and we’re just worn out from the week…it can be hard to make time for “superfluous” things. But please do. Please slap sleepiness in the face and get together with the people who inspire you, who give you energy and support your dreams.

I recently did this with one of my best gals, Jen. Jen is one of those people who’s creative energy will rejuvenate your soul. She’s an artist at heart and I love that she just GETS me, you know? It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, you know they’re friends for keeps. We stopped by my favorite little coffee shop in Rosslyn, Caffe Aficionado, which serves the best lattes since Italy. I hesitate even telling you this - you know, when you find this KILLER place and you want to tell everyone, but also no one, at the same time? Like you want it to be yours only, but you also want them to succeed? I’m very selective in who I tell about my secret latte heaven, so consider yourselves very, very lucky. ;)

Since Shawn and I don’t go out much (we love cooking together at home), I love dressing up for girl dates. I wore this gorgeous statement skirt from one of my favorite shops in Mosaic District, Take 5 Boutique. (If you haven’t been there before, I highly recommend it!) I just love how feminine the skirt is and how the colors remind you of an intricate painting. When I tried it on, it was loooovvvve at first sight. I paired it with a silk blouse from Equipment (maybe not the best choice for a rainy day, whoops!), my fave Schutz pumps and some fun, edgy jewelry from Hanuel to really round out the look.

So - where’s your favorite spot for a friend date?

On Julien: Skirt, Roman via Take 5 Boutique c/o. Blouse, Equipment via Intermix. Pumps, Schutz via Lyst c/o. Earrings, Hanuel c/o. Bracelets, Hanuel c/o (here, here and here.)