Smile Darling

Lifestyle and Fashion Blog

Beauty, Hair, Lifestyle, Real Talk

Luxury Hair- The Beacon Salon

Hey babes! Today, I want to gush about The Beacon Salon, an absolute neighborhood beauty sanctuary in downtown Charleston, SC! If you haven’t been, you are missing out! This cute, cozy little gem is female-owned by the wonderful Jamie Dorothy, and let me tell you, her staff is the sweetest crew ever. They make you feel like you’ve known them for years the second you walk in the door.

The Beacon Salon offers everything your heart could desire—Cuts, Colors, Scalp Treatments, Bridal Services, Blowouts, and Keratin treatments—you name it. And the best part? You can even walk in without an appointment. Yep, they’ve got your spontaneous beauty moments covered!

But today, I want to talk about my hair extension experience! Now, I’ve never had extensions before, so this was a big step for me. After chatting with Jamie, we decided to go with tape-ins from the brand Showpony. Since it was my first time, I wanted to start with tape-ins before fully committing to sewn-ins—baby steps, ya know?

Here’s a little backstory. I’ve got Hashimoto’s, which is an autoimmune thyroid condition. For those of you who don’t know, Hashimoto’s can cause hair thinning, brittleness, and even hair loss, which is not fun. I’ve been feeling a little insecure about my hair lately, so when Jamie reached out to me I couldn’t resist. I figured extensions might be the confidence boost I needed. Spoiler alert: they totally were!

The whole process started with a consultation. Jamie matched my hair to these gorgeous swatches of “lived-in blonde” shades, and we settled on a dreamy Cool Brown Ombre. We went with 20-inch length extensions (go big or go home, right?). About two weeks later, I was back in the salon for installation day.

The lovely stylists Sam and Payton were beyond amazing! We touched up my money pieces first, and then they took their time with the installation, making sure every piece was perfectly aligned. If you’re new to tape-ins like I was, here’s the deal: you’ll need to get them reapplied every 6-10 weeks so the bonds stay close to your scalp. And you can always pop in for maintenance appointments to keep everything smooth and fab.

OK, can we talk about the results?! STUNNING doesn’t even cover it. The extensions are so lightweight, and I got exactly what I wanted: length AND volume! The Beacon team totally nailed it.

Now, if I could give you one piece of advice, it’s this: do your homework on hair extension care. I had to learn the hard way! I got a special brush and sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner from Showpony. Make sure to brush gently from the bottom up, and don’t go too close to the tapes. You’ve gotta blow-dry your hair after every wash (goodbye, air-dry days), and sleep with your hair in a loose braid or something protective to prevent tangling. It’s a whole new routine folks!

Honestly, I feel like a new woman with these long, luscious locks. I’m obsessed! If you’re considering extensions or just want to treat yourself, hit up The Beacon Salon. I promise you’ll leave feeling like the queen you are.

Till next time, babes!

Xoxo,
Courtney Fabiano

Fashion, Lifestyle

Fall Trends: Featuring Revolve

*This post contains affiliate links through Revolve. By using my links I have potenial to make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Hello Angels! I am finally accepting that Fall is here, even though Charleston doesn’t reciprocate the weather.

I haven’t written a fashion post in a while, so I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite fall trends! For this post, I am collaborating with Revolve! You will be able to shop some of my favorite pieces directly from this post.

The first fall trend I am loving is sweater vests. I knowww, you are probably thinking frumpy grandma vibes. Just trust me!

This sweater set adds a stylish twist, and the varsity look makes it so versatile. Also, the cropped style of the top and shorter length of the skirt gives it the right kind of sexy & chic moment. I love the tan & white neutral tones together.

I chose to pair this look with cute patent leather loafers. I would also wear this set with a white, or neutral sneaker! I am wearing a size Medium.

Shop: Varsity Skirt Set; Neutral Sneaker

This second look is my absolute fave! I don’t even know where to begin. These vegan leather pants are a MUST! It combines the cargo pant trend & leather pant trend into one. I love the wider leg, and the inside is a super soft fleece material. The cargo style allows you to dress it up, or wear more casual. For a going out look, I would wear these pants with a corset top/a bodysuit. I would wear heels, or a pointed toe bootie. If you want a more casual look, you can easily pair these pants with a graphic tee, or a simple top. Sneakers, high-tops, or combat boots would definitely complete your daytime OOTD. I am wearing a size 28.


We have to talk about this bodysuit. The color is simply GORGEOUS! It adds a major twist to your traditional turtle neck style. It is stretchy and really comfortable. It does have a thong back. I am wearing a size Medium, it’s TTS.

Shop: Vegan Leather Cargos Black; Vegan Leather Cargos Camel; Bodysuit


A color I am really gravitating towards this season is purple/magenta. This mini dress from All The Ways is a show stopper! The off the shoulder cut-out really elevates what would be a simple dress. This dress is so comfortable & stretchy. It is a pull-on style. I am wearing a size Medium, it’s TTS. This dress runs short, so it may not be suitable for taller gals. I am 5’7.

Shop: Mini Dress


Lastly, we have to talk about denim! These jeans from GRLFRND are sooo cute. I love the distressing and wider leg opening. They are a high-waisted slim straight style. Material is that stiff denim with very little stretch. I am wearing a 28, but I could have done a 29. If you are in between sizes, size up!


Black bodysuits are a wardrobe staple of mine. I have so many! I love the unique twisted shoulder on this one. It has a thong back and has some stretch. It is a soft jersey material. I found the arm sleeves to be really tight. I am wearing a Medium.

Shop: Jeans; Black Bodysuit

xx Courtney

Beauty, Lifestyle, Skincare

Lip Filler: Charleston Laser & Aesthetics

A smile is your best accessory!

I had the opportunity to partner with Charleston Laser & Aesthetics (@charlestonlaser) and received lip filler from the lip goddess herself Sarah Roe (@sarahroe.np)! Sarah did an amazing job with subtly enhancing my lips & balancing them out. I love how my lips look! I have been going to Sarah for 3 years now with all my injectable needs. This is the second time I received lip filler from her at Charleston Laser.

Charleston Laser & Aesthetics is one of my favorite places to go for injectables! They are located in West Ashley (Charleston, SC). Their facility offers a bunch of fabulous services such as laser treatments, skincare services, teeth whitening, and injectables. I highly recommend them for your next treatment.

xx Courtney

Lifestyle, Real Talk, Uncategorized

Pride Month- My ”Coming Out” Story

“The only choice I made was to be myself”


I told myself I would never publicly announce my “coming out”. While I share a lot online, I wanted to keep this part of my identity safe from the opinions and judgement of others.

But, here I am for the first time screaming from the rooftops (Or, an online social media post- pretty much the same thing) that I’m queer!

For 28 years of my life I identified as ”straight”. Then, 4 years ago I started to notice this attraction I had towards women. It was definitely more than an, “Oh, I think that girl is really pretty”. It was actually more like an, “Oh, I think that girl is really attractive and I want to hook-up with her”.

When I was still living in Charlotte, NC I would dabble on the “woman seeking women” side of the dating apps. I would always swipe left and tell myself I was just looking. Once I knew I was moving to Charleston, I promised myself I would truly give it a chance. I dated my first girl in April 2020 and the rest is history! I am super attracted to women and I have been exclusively dating women for over 3 years.

How I personally identify is still a gray area for me. For a while, I was identifying as bisexual. While I do find men to be sexually attractive, I really have zero desire to hook-up with them at this point in time. I have not been intimate with a man in almost 4 years. I do refer to myself as being a lesbian, but ultimately I feel identifying as queer is more suitable. I feel the definition of being “queer” is an all encompassing umbrella term that describes sexual and gender identities other than straight and cisgender.


After 3 years of identifying as queer, in March of this year I decided to “come out” to my brother, Mom & Dad. My sister already knew for a few years because we live together in Charleston. I was reallyyy apprehensive to tell my parents. I knew their love for me wouldn’t change, but I was unsure if they would truly understand. I was concerned they would cut me off for a while, or need space away from me. The conversation was brief, but my parents immediately supported me. My Dad even said he could tell and knew from stuff on social media. They told me that they only want me to be happy and live life to the fullest!

I’ve been extremely fortunate with my “coming out” journey. My relationship with my parents and siblings didn’t alter – they still love me unconditionally. My friends are some of my biggest supporters! They cheer me on and constantly ask for dating life updates. I know for a lot of LGBTQ+ that is not necessarily the case. Which is why I didn’t feel the need to draw any sort of attention outwardly for a long time.

I have always been an ally of this beautiful community. To be a part of it now for 3 years has been an impactful journey. There’s been a lot of self- growth, discovery, and reflection. I can truly say I love the person I am. I am proud of my ability to love in all capacity’s. I have gone through such a transformational phase, and I’m finally comfortable enough to share it with all of you. HAPPY PRIDE MONTH!

xx Courtney

Fashion, Fitness, Lifestyle

AVRE- Sustainable Sneakers

If you’re on the hunt for new footwear, then I have the brand for you! AVRE is a sustainable shoe brand that creates modern designs with women in mind. They are an empowering WOC brand that is truly changing the industry.

AVRE uses sustainable materials & recycled water bottles to craft each eco-friendly pair of shoes.

Their BLOOM Algae foam insoles help to remove harmful algae to reverse the effects of water pollution and rising global temperatures by restoring healthy ecosystems and generating clean water. With one insole, AVRE is cleaning 45 liters of water and 28 cubic meters of air.

I’m featuring the AVRE Infinity Glide Shoes in Light Grey and Peach! They are super stylish and great for on-the-go. I recommend them for walking, lifting, or running everyday errands. I would not recommend this particular model for running/ cardio because they are a flexible knit upper and lighter on support. This style comes in 5 color options! Other sneaker styles are also available.

You can find them on Instagram @avrelife.

Lifestyle

Macy’s Wine Shop

Chardon-heyyy!

Have you heard the news?! Macy’s now has a wine shop! I know, I was just as surprised as you when they reached out to me with the news. I am honored to be partnering with Macy’s Wine Shop as an Ambassador, and I am here to share with you all the deets.

Why should you choose Macy’s Wine Shop? They make ordering wine easy and offer a great value! You don’t have to worry about the hassle of lugging around heavy wine bottles. Macy’s Wine Shop delivers to your door in 2-3 days!

They offer a wide selection of Red, White, Rosé, and Sparkling wines. You also have the ability to purchase wine sets- this allows you to try Best Sellers and different blends. If you’re a true wine connoisseur then you will want to join Macy’s Wine Club! Club members receive regular shipments of expert-selected wines delivered to your door.

Their wine selection is di-vine! You need to try it for yourself! Use my link here to get $50 off an expertly curated 6-bottle set, plus FREE SHIPPING to your door in 2-3 business days! Sip, sip, hooray!

xx Courtney

Lifestyle, Real Talk

I’m Back: A Personal Note

The comeback is always greater than the setback

Hi! It’s been a while…and by while I mean 6 long months. What was supposed to be a couple weeks off Instagram, ended up becoming half a year away to provide me with time to self-reflect.

The last few months have been CRAZY.

Truly, they’ve been full of transformation. For full transparency, I was unsure if I was going to actually come back to blogging. I toyed with the idea of stopping altogether and moving on with my life. But, at the end of the day Smile Darling fills me. I have never felt a passion or purpose like I do when I am here with all of you. Stripping back the layers and sharing my thoughts out loud has become second nature.

This reset has allowed me to re-examine my life, my wants, and my needs. I am grateful I gave myself this period of discovery.

I have to say, there’s something liberating about going through dark times. When it first hits, it’s all-consuming and you can’t see a way out. It’s almost as if you’re trapped in your own mind. You’re suffocating in this space you can’t escape. It’s lonely.

Once you are out of it, however, you develop this strength you never knew you had before. Your soul feels rejuvenated. You feel lighter like this tremendous weight has been lifted.

The past 6 months have been full of reflection. It has been emotional. The level I took things to with self-discovery was absolutely needed. With therapy, I have been able to deal with past traumas that I was unaware still had an effect on me. I had a lot of wounds that needed healing… and still do.

I have done a lot of exposure therapy as well. I did a few sessions with a health coach. I even went to an energy reading and Reiki healing. With therapy, I have learned when you revisit the past and what triggers you, you are able to learn how to accept those circumstances. Dealing with the pain of your past is never easy. But, when you face it head-on you develop and evolve in ways you never could’ve imagined.

Therapy has also allowed me to reflect on why I am the way I am. It has made me realize that I do still suffer from an eating disorder. It has made me notice my anxiety may be greater than I had let on. It has made me question who Courtney Fabiano is. It has made me face my fears and internal turmoil. I have cried. I have prayed I could be “normal”. I have picked myself off the floor more times than I can count.

However, when you make it through the darkness the renewal gives you this beautiful strength. It’s powerful. This liberation I now feel has been years in the making. I feel a sense of freedom from my own mind. I have put in the work and will continue to do so.

I can’t wait to share this awakening in me with all of you! You’ve loved me unconditionally. You have always seen something in me that took my own self too long to see.

Big things are achieved not all at once but one day at a time.

I’ve learned I can’t control how other people respond or react. I can’t control what other people think. Worrying if people like me or not really doesn’t do me any good. This worry and anxiety were affecting my ability to blog. I constantly felt like an “imposter”, and as if I wasn’t good enough. I was submerged in this pressure. I would stress about the algorithm, working with brands, “likes”, and engagement. I was essentially conducing myself down to an actual number.

Yet, the number of followers, “likes” on a photo, or views on stories doesn’t dictate who I am. I have learned I don’t need to feel inferior to my peers and fellow blogger friends. No longer do I  feel this pressure to keep up. Comparison will eat you alive. No longer will I allow myself to feel insignificant. I will no longer question if I have failed.

With Smile Darling, I always wanted to stay true to myself. I wanted to help people. I wanted to share my honest thoughts, opinions, and reviews regardless of what brands might think. I wanted to work with small businesses. All these things I will continue to do. I still stand by the mission statement I made back in March 2018.

Finally, a message to all of you: Thank you for choosing to still be a part of this journey with me. Your messages and check-ins truly made all the difference. You keep me going. Without you, Smile Darling Blog would merely be a dream. You have allowed me to share this virtual diary. You have allowed me to have an impact I never could have imagined.

They say, “if you can do it for joy, you can do it forever”. Join me on this new chapter, and let’s see if they’re right.

xx Courtney

All Things Christmas, Lifestyle

Shop Small Gift Guide

Hi loves! With the holiday season in full swing, I want to remind you guys how important it is to shop small. This year has been particularly hard on business owners.

I’ve rounded up some of my favorite small businesses! I asked you guys to share yours with me as well. Below, you will find some pretty awesome and unique shops. Let’s show them some love!

The Fem Em

Female owned- Powering queens through clothing and accessories. $1 per a product purchased is donated to Planned Parenthood.

Pini

Owned by my best friend! Fashion art & illustration.

BEETAN

Female owned- Healthy Sunless tanning. Products are Vegan, Cruelty-free, paraben- free, and all organic ingredients.

ana luisa

Sustainably-made jewelry with a conscience. Recycled materials whenever possible, transparent business practices always, and small-batch designs that are kind to the Earth. 

Revel

Female owned- DIY craft kits

No Fine Print Wine Co.

Giving everyday wine drinkers an approachable option for high quality wine. No Fine Print, Just Good Wine.

The Sauceshank Redemption

My friends own this! Sauce company out of Boston, selling flavors you only dream of.

Twelve Cosmetics

Black owned & Female owned- US cosmetic brand that is vegan and cruelty-free. Affordable luxury beauty.

Booty By Brabants

Female owned- Textured workout leggings and stylish activewear. Kelly Brabants is Boston based, and also does online workouts.

2BrosCoffeeCo

Black owned– Offering natural flavors using fresh cinnamon, vanilla, and other ingredients. K-Cups and fresh CBD-infused coffee are also available for shipping.

Girl Tribe 

Female owned- Fearlessly leading women to find their magic. Clothing, accessories and gifts from women owned businesses.

Plants Bliss Love

Female owned- Handmade plant decor and antiquing with plants.

Barre3 Charleston

Female owned- Small in studio classes, outdoor and live-stream.

Julie’s Boutique

North Carolina clothing boutique. Free Shipping over $75!

Wild World Of AK

Female owned- Handmade casual pieces.

Dear Ava

Female owned- Thoughtful gifting jewelry company.

Just Be Clothing Co.

Female owned by my friend! This clothing line is handpicked. Trendy, edgy & comfortable.

 Adair

Female owned- clothing, gifts, and accessories boutique.

OLIVIA HUDSON CLOTHING

Female owned- NorCal Based Online Store. New Arrivals Every Sunday!

Heartman

For the movers, shakers, and change-makers. They make fun t-shirts that donate to charity.

Karter L’Rose Candle Co.

Black owned & Female owned. Hand poured soy candles. Natural • Dye Free • Soy.

Flaunt Boutique

Female owned- Gifts and accessories. Rhode Island based.

FIT with Cambrie

Female owned- Supplements and detox plans. Healthy lifestyle.

Athar’a Pure

Female owned- Exotic Skin Essentials; 100% Natural, Vegan, Cruelty-Free Skin Care, Based on Ayurveda Beauty. 

ENTOURAGE Clothing

Based in Athens, GA Online Fashion Brand.

Suzy Sunshine Shop

Female owned- A collection created and curated by @suzyshattuck .

Shop Create & Cultivate

Female owned-  Vegan leather essentials, and office accessories.

Cannonborough Collective

Female owned- Charleston Balloon & Gift shop.

Jolii Cosmetics

Female owned- Clean, cruelty-free, vegan, fuss-free makeup. Made in Italy!

JG Clay


Ceramics handcrafted in Boston.

Subtle and Sass

Female owned- Size inclusive boutique XS-3X. Charleston, SC based.

Modern Gents Trading Co.

Affordable Wedding Rings. Conflict-Free, Lifetime Warranty, and Free USA Shipping.

The Northern Yarrow Boutique

Female owned- Small handmade bow shop. New styles dropping every Tuesday and Friday. Use code: KATELYNN10 to save.

Dress Up

Female owned- Affordable and trendy styles.

Apricot Lane Boutique

Female owned- Trendy fashion boutique in Charleston, SC.

Beauty Counter- Growing Up Benson

Clean beauty, safer skincare. My friend Charissa is a seller.

Love Bella Charleston

Female owned- NY contemporary women’s boutique in Mt Pleasant, SC.

Hope’s

Female owned- Free shipping US & Canada. Use my code: Smile15.

Myro

Plant-powered deodorant. Reduce. Refill. Recycle.

Versona

Trendy boutique styles and accessories.

Sweet Sawyer and Co.

Female owned- personalized cake, cupcake toppers & more!

Hazel and Olive

Female owned- Free shipping always! New arrivals daily, and Texas based.

Dottie Couture Boutique

Trending looks & seasonal staples. Free Shipping over $50.

Black Owned Businesses on Etsy

Support Black owned businesses!

  • Black-owned Etsy Shops
All Things Christmas, Beauty, Make-up, Skincare

Sephora Beauty Insider- Holiday Savings

Hi Babes! The Sephora Beauty Insider Holiday Savings Event is going on now! You have to be a Beauty Inside to reap the benefits! The higher the tier, the more you save! I am Rouge (don’t ask me how much I had to spend to manage that, lol). Rouge members get 20% off. VIB is 15% off, and Insider is 10% off! This sale goes until 11/9. This is a great time to stock up on beauty products for yourself and for others this holiday season. Below, is a list of all the Sephora products I use. Happy shopping!

xx Courtney

Real Talk

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

This month is very triggering for me. When I think about my past and talk about my experience out loud I feel embarrassed. I feel ashamed. I get an uncomfortable feeling. But this topic should make me uncomfortable. It should make you uncomfortable.

The statistics around domestic violence are staggering. Did you know, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner? On average, nearly 20 people per a minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. On a typical day, there are more than 20,000 phone calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide.

With Covid-19 this year, domestic violence has literally become a pandemic within a pandemic. Victims maybe unable to safely connect with a hotline or service. Stress, isolation and financial strains can create problematic circumstances.

I think it is important more than ever to bring recognition to what is really going on. This is a harsh reality for some.

The Meaning Behind the Butterfly

As you may have noticed, my photo contains butterflies. The butterfly has long been used as a symbol of the transformation domestic violence survivors undergo. Purple is the color in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness.

For domestic violence survivors, they go through many stages. The caterpillar stage is said to be where the victim is currently. They are stuck in the situation and cannot escape.

The chrysalis stage is noted as a stage of healing and transformation. Lastly, there is the butterfly. Survivors can spread their wings! They can feel the freedom. They can soar to new heights and truly fly.

I thought the meaning of the butterfly was really beautiful. I knew I wanted to incorporate it into today’s post.

I hope reading this has brought you more clarity on domestic violence. To read my personal story, you can click here.

*If you or someone you know is struggling with an abusive relationship please call The National Domestic Violence HOTLINE at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

xx Courtney