Palm Springs Before the Rings

Rewind to my "Final Flamingle" back in May. I was queen of the flock for the entire weekend and wooo babyyy what a weekend it was.

I have to apologise to all the HFL readers who were expecting a juicy, revealing post about everything that went down at my retro-inspired, flamingo-themed bachelorette party. You see, according to the official girl code I can't publicly divulge all the dirty, delicious details. But I tell you what! I'm willing to share my Top 7 highlights from the trip. Plus, if you're headed to Palm Springs this summer, you'll find plenty of recommendations on where to go, what to eat and tips on how to relax in style.

1) The Pink Door House

First up, our amazing Airbnb accommodation was a mid-century modern masterpiece. Complete with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a spacious kitchen, this house left us wanting for nothing. I loved the funky wallpaper and colourful furniture featured in every room, but the real showstopper was the enormous backyard. We spent our days in the heated pool, around the fire pit, drinking at the outdoor bar and lounging under the covered patio. Talk about a desert oasis.

2) Dream Theme

Don't get me wrong we did plenty of fabulous things that weekend but I think my favourite was seeing all the different decor items used to bring my "Final Flamingle" theme to life. From the massive pool floats and banners to the palm leaf cocktail napkins and pink flamingo straws, I was absolutely blown away by all love and attention to detail that went into putting this party together. Oh and don't get me started on the bamboo purses that acted as our gift bags. They were filled with cat-eye sunglasses, flamingo-printed sarongs, koozies, tropical earrings and so much more. Hats off to my girls for nailing the theme!

3) Amazing Eats

Dang Palm Springs! You have some great restaurants and we all know I love to eat. There were a few restaurants that really stood out and first is the Sandwich Spot. Their hilariously named sandwiches are perfect for lunch on a hot and sunny pool day. I highly recommend The DILF, But it's a Dry Heat or The Thighmaster. Next, you all have to check out Mr. Lyons, a swanky steakhouse that knows how to elevate any celebration. I'm the weirdo that orders scallops from a steak place but sorry I'm not sorry because they were melt-in-your-mouth, perfectly seared and served with a tangy lemon, butter sauce. Mmm mmm mmm.

Quick tip alert. If you're planning a night in, a lot of restaurants don't deliver in Palm Springs. I know, I don't get it either but we found Rocky's, a hidden gem serving up super simple pizzas, using fresh ingredients and the only joint delivering all over the valley.

Lastly, I have to shine a spotlight on Rio Azul. We picked up a large catering order from Rio on the last night of our stay and all agreed it was the best meal to end on. We had a full on Mexican fiesta with spicy shredded pork and chicken tacos, beans, rice and all the toppings. I was amazed how a tortilla could be fluffy, crunchy, toasty and soft all at the same time. Go figure but my mouth is watering just thinking about it again.

4) My Gal Pals

Can you think of anything more fun than laying in the sun, playing games, watching chick flicks, getting ready, chowing down and dancing with your best girlfriends? Rhetorical question because the answer is NO THERE IS NOTHING BETTER THAN THAT. A real highlight for me was just spending quality time with friends that I hadn't seen in a very long time. We got the opportunity to be silly, swap stories and truly reconnect. #girlsjustwanttohavefun

5) An Epic Night Out

Of course there was one rowdy night that I'll never forget. We painted the town bright pink and saw the most insanely entertaining drag show at Oscar's Cabaret. Everyone was so welcoming to our group, the host was as witty as can be and you can't beat a venue that sits right in the heart of old Palm Springs. I don't want to give away too many spoilers for those that have never been before but be prepared to see and sing along to the likes of Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand and Lady Gaga just to name a few.

6) Bottomless Cocktails

Delicious drinks and a lot of them are a total must at any bachelorette party. From wine with custom flamingo labels put on them to smooth as silk tequila for "Pink Flamingo" margaritas, let's just say we didn't go thirsty all weekend long. Shout out to Lovely Rita Spirits for stocking our bar and allowing us to try their premium products. Be sure to click on Brands I Love to learn more.

7) Best Brunch Picnic Ever

On our second morning in Palm Springs, the girls surprised me with a brunch picnic in our backyard. It was breathtaking and fun fact I completely broke down when I saw the set up. There were pillows in all shades of white, an eclectic mix of glass, wood and linens, but most of all everything just looked so light and breezy. Boho chic! We spent hours chatting, eating beautiful pastries and sipping on chilled champagne. So to me, surrounded by the 5 girls I love, it was a perfect morning.

Now, I need to wrap up this post by saying a huge thank you to Carlie, my cousin, for planning and executing the bachelorette party of my dreams. If you all loved what you read and saw in this post, comment below or message me with any event planning inquiries (I'll make sure she gets them). I also can't tell you all how appreciative I am to Angie, Sarah, Kierstin, Emily, Aunt Pam and my Mom. You all made me feel so very special and I'm eternally grateful.

To see more photos from my bachelorette weekend, follow @hungrfor_life_ on Instagram.