The Real Chic Life

One of my favorite children’s authors, Nicolette Sowder, once wrote that in times of stress or change, it’s helpful to remember that we’re also connected to Mother Nature’s cycles, because “her repeated rhythm and ever-changing yet familiar refrains” help us to feel “held, grounded, and connected to all of life”. And in that spirit, I hope that you make room for lots of joy-filled moments this summer. Summer is golden sunlight, breezy evenings, and that delicious sense of freedom that makes things feel possible.

If you need some inspiration, here’s your Ultimate Summer Bucket List to help you stay inspired, energized, and glowing—inside and out.

For the Soul: Lighten Your Spirit

1. Watch the sunrise with a cup of something warm.

2. Write a summer intention in your journal—something as simple as “I choose peace” or “Let joy lead.”

3. Start a feel-good playlist and use it to get ready in the mornings or to wind down in the evenings.

4. Read a novel outdoors—on a porch, at the beach, or even in your backyard.

5. Try a digital detox weekend (or even a single day).

6. Treat yourself to fresh flowers or a new plant.

7. Make a gratitude list during golden hour.

For the Body: Move & Nourish

8. Try a morning walk before 9AM—you’ll feel accomplished before breakfast.

9. Make a smoothie—experiment with tropical greens, strawberry and basil, or cucumber and mint.

10. Take a class outdoors—yoga in the park, pilates on a rooftop, or beach barre.

11. DIY spa night with a body scrub, face mask, and candlelight soak.

12. Swap your normal skincare and makeup routine for lighter products. Add a touch of summer through a bright lipstick, cheek or nail color.

13. Infuse your water with citrus, herbs, or berries—hydration can be chic.


For the Senses: Feel the Season

14. Light a summer candle (bonus points: find one with beachy or garden notes).

15. Create a summer scent wardrobe—switch up your fragrance to something coconutty, citrusy, or aquatic (like Ellis Brooklyn Salt, or one of these other gorgeous recomendations).

16. Go berry picking, buy peaches from a local farm, or stop by a farmer’s market for seasonal produce.

17. Swim in a natural body of water—lake, ocean, or even a river.

18. Have a no-phone sunset moment.

19. Go barefoot in the grass or on the sand.

For Fun: Be Playful Again

20. Host a nostalgic picnic—think lemonade, sandwiches, and a blanket.

21. Come up with a signature summer mocktail or cocktail to make at home.

22. Try a seasonal hobby like flower pressing, beachcombing, or biking.

23. Do something touristy in your own town.

24. Buy ice cream or another sweet treat from a local business.

25. Go to an outdoor movie or host your own with popcorn and cozy blankets.


For Connection: Share the Joy

26. Plan a beach or park day with your best people.

27. Host a backyard brunch or charcuterie night.

28. Volunteer at a summer community event.

29. Leave a book in a Little Free Library.

30. Join or start a summer book or podcast club.


Summer reminds us that joy can be chosen, daily, in the smallest of ways. Whether it’s five minutes in the sun, a spontaneous laugh, or a moment of stillness, joy has a way of anchoring us in the present and softening the edges of life. This bucket list isn’t just a checklist—it’s a gentle reminder to prioritize what makes you feel light, whole, and alive.

Xo,

Courtney