May Favorites: Carly Rae Jepsen, Blühen Botanicals, and Dead To Me
Another sweaty Tennessee summer has arrived in Knoxville, but luckily, our staff has found a few things to help you beat the heat. From the ’80s-inspired pop album our content strategist has on heavy rotation to the dark, female-led Netflix comedy our lead designer can’t stop recommending, these vacation-ready picks will keep you cool no matter how high the temperature climbs.
1. Dedicated…an ’80s inspired reco album from the queen of summer
“My monthly fave is Carly Rae Jepsen’s new album, Dedicated,” said content strategist Hanna Lustig. “It is ’80s-inspired synth pop magic delivered just in time for summer. Bops abound on this record, but I think ‘The Sound’ and ‘Everything He Needs’ would be great points of entry for skeptics (I’m looking at you, designer Katie Truppo).”
2. Blühen Botanicals…brought to you by East Tennessee’s hemp experts.
Last month, Blühen Botanicals opened their first retail location in the Old City and Principal Chuck Morris couldn’t be happier. Whether you are looking to check out their boutique CBD products, attending one of their educational workshops, or exploring their menu of delicious, hemp-infused dishes, this mixed use space is an incredible addition to the neighborhood. Did we mention they stock Jackson Avenue Tea and a slew of other local products, too? Run, don’t walk to this trendy new hangout and be sure to order the avocado toast with hemp hearts.
3. Dead to Me… a darkly hilarious mystery about grief and female friendship.
“This show is my perfect dark comedy,” said designer Katie Truppo. “Christina Applegate plays a widow with anger management issues and Linda Cardellini is her sweet, but mysterious new friend. It’s equal parts mystery, drama, and comedy, but all around one of my favorite Netflix originals.”
4. Yensa Skin on Skin BC Foundation…a multi-tasking base with killer and SPF 40.
Web developer Lindsay Loveday is currently loving Yensa’s Skin on Skin BC Foundation. “It is a BB and CC cream that is also full coverage,” she said. “It contains SPF 40, too, so it is great for summer.”
5. Starbucks Mango Dragonfruit Refresher…a tropical afternoon pick-me-up.
Marketing intern Nicole Maestri has been spotted sipping this magenta Mango Dragonfruit Refresher from Starbucks all month long. “This drink has been my afternoon lifesaver throughout this recent heat wave,” she said. “It’s made with real, red-fleshed dragon fruit, which gives it the vibrant color. And with no artificial sweeteners or colors added, it’s the perfect amount of sweet. I haven’t tried this variation yet, but you can even substitute the water for coconut milk to enjoy a creamier version!”
So, what were your May #monthlyfaves? Tweet and comment your top picks. You might just see them featured in next month’s round-up!
