Tag Archive: work

All-Nighter Survival Guide

Both professionally and personally, this summer has been a busy one, to say the least.  In addition to an international trip, family visiting, float trips, and celebrations galore, I’ve had quite a number of back-to-back major deadlines at work this summer.  If you are familiar with the architecture/interior design industry at all, then you know that equals many late nights and weekends in the studio.  There were a few things I had to have to keep my eyes open and my creative (and efficiency) juices flowing.  If you find yourself in the office after hours, hopefully these will help you through the crazy times like they did me.

DET Allnighter All Nighter Survival Guide

 

1.  Earbuds (why not make them cute?!) and a good playlist are a must to keep you motivated.  Just be sure your playlist is full of upbeat music, or you just may find yourself dozing on your keyboard.  Country House Earbuds in Nesting Dolls, ModCloth

2.   Herbal teas can re-energize you for a few more hours of productivity.  Ginger is said to stimulate the brain and circulatory system.  Organic Ginger Tea, Harney & Sons

3.  Bring along some slippers to slip into after hours.  They can help you feel more comfortable after long periods of time spent at your desk.  These slippers are adorable and will be the envy of the office!  Women’s Slippers, Molipop

4.  Be prepared with take-out menus you can keep on hand.  This awesome organizer can help keep track of where you’ve ordered from before, what you’ve ordered and the information for each restaurant.  Takeout Menus Organizer, Uncommon Goods

5.  Snacks on hand are definitely a required late-night necessity.  Trail mix, with a mix of salty and sweet, is one of my favorites.  Try this yummy-sounding recipe.  Summer Snacks, My Kitchen Addiction

6.  A low back pillow helps support your lumbar, which will need some help after many hours in a task chair.  This striking pillow can later be incorporated into my home decor after the deadlines.  Mulit Chevron Decorative Pillow, Target

Don’t forget to take time to get up and stretch every so often to get your circulation flowing.  Check out these Office Chair Yoga Exercises I found on Rejuvenation Lounge.  Pamper yourself with a warm bath to wind down when you get home.  And a nice massage after your deadline is over is a fantastic incentive to keep on keeping on!

 

A Work Tote…the Saga.

SVtoteimage A Work Tote...the Saga.

 

Image via Thank God I’m a Girl

I’ve been on a search for a new work tote.  For about 3 months.  After hours spent searching local shops, department stores and online – and 3 returns later – I’m beginning to feel a bit like Goldilocks.  Too big, too small, too structured, not structured enough.  Too many pockets, not enough pockets, handles too short, handles too long.  Does this bag exist?  I’ve also been on the fence about whether to get an investment bag that will last a while, or just settle for something that will work for this season…oh, the agony.  I’ve even looked into having one custom made.  In a perfect world, I would just trot over to Saks and pick up the ultimate fantasy bag, but alas, I think it’s a tad out of my budget.

Since I feel like a bit of an expert in the area at the moment, I thought I’d share a few of my favorites from my search.  While all won’t quite work for me and just what I need, these would all make excellent choices for someone with a bit less… particular needs.

SVworktoteroundup A Work Tote...the Saga.

1. Vinyl Shopper, $99, Zara  2. Melbu Tote, $248, Anthropologie  3. Chelsea Leather Shopper, $298, Coach  4. Kimichi Blue Envelope Tote, $59, Urban Outfitters  5. Alto Large Tassel Bag, Dooney & Bourke  6.  RED Valentino Bow Tote Bag, $315 Saks Fifth Avenue  7. Built Essential Work Tote $89, Built NY

pixel A Work Tote...the Saga.