How We Use the AmEx Platinum Card + Rakuten to Turn Holiday Spending Into Travel for the New Year

Why We Got the AmEx Platinum Card

As two military-spouse couples who have a love for travel, flexibility, and occasional splurge-worthy stays — carrying The Platinum Card® from American Express is more than a “nice-to-have.” It’s actually become a key part of our travel and lifestyle strategy. While this card may not have been on our radar for far too long, we need to note that the annual fee is waived for military service members under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) or Military Lending Act (MLA). If you are good with maintaining low to non-existent carry over balances on your credit cards and you are a military service member (or family of one), then this is something you may want to look into. We hesitated getting this card - hence why we took so long to finally do it - but honestly it’s been so good and the benefits alone make it worth it for us.

Here’s what the updated 2025 version offers — and why it works for us:

• Annual Fee: $895 — yes, on paper it’s steep, and it’s been increased, sadly. But for frequent travelers, it can be more of an investment than a cost. We’re going to breakdown why we think that below, so keep reading.

• Estimated Annual Value: AmEx itself estimates the card provides over $3,500 in benefits annually, mainly through statement credits, travel upgrades, and lifestyle perks. You DO have to research what all they offer, and how you can best utilize these credits/perks. They don’t just come to you, so make sure you’re maximizing your informational research. The below works for US, but there truly is quite a bit more than that, and we still need to get our max benefits too!

What We Actually Use (and Why It Matters)

Below we’ve listed just a few of the “attractive” perks that our families have come to use over the years. Please know that there are a LOT of additional perks that we have not mentioned! So while the below is typically what we use and get the most value out of, there are other perks that make this even more valuable.

$600 Hotel Credit (prepaid stays at Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection — $300 twice per year)
Great for staycations, weekend getaways between duties, or family travel — it can substantially offset or even cover a hotel stay.
$400 Dining Credit via Resy (up to $100 per quarter at 10,000+ U.S. restaurants)
Perfect for celebratory dinners, date-nights, or post-travel dinners — especially during holiday season or while traveling.
-Not going to lie — this one is new to us. We haven’t taken advantage of it yet, as I’m pretty sure it’s relatively new in general, but we are going to take advantage this month! For those slightly upscaled dining reservations, this is definitely a great use of a perk.
Uber / Rideshare & Transport Credits(Uber One + Uber Cash)
Handy for airport rides, base moves, or exploring a new duty station without renting a car.
Digital Entertainment / Lifestyle Credits (streaming services, wellness, lifestyle retail, etc.)
Helps offset “home base” costs — meaning more cash stays free for travel or experiences.
We use this to offset the cost of Disney+ — because, all things Disney, right?! It covers about 90% of the streaming package we have — as we also have Hulu and ESPN (this is all according to Shelby’s husband!)
Elite Hotel Status & Perks (upgrades, late checkout, breakfast, etc.)
When we travel — whether for a vacation or a base relocation — this gives us a little upgrade without paying luxury prices.

One of the best examples of the “Elite Hotel Status & Perks” happened to us just this summer! While our family does travel quite often, this was a first: being greeting VERY cordially by two different hotel managers and being upgraded in one of those hotels. Additionally, one of the hotels gave a VERY nice free breakfast for two (along with a dinner coupon, which we weren’t able to make use of) and truly … it was two of the most extravagant greetings and care we’ve ever been given on our travels. We honestly only knew that it was because of the American Express Platinum because a letter that we received by the manager expressed gratitude for our travels and use of the card! It was crazy. We invited my daughter’s friend to travel with us, and I swear she thought our family was WAY bougier than we actually are — this had literally NEVER happened before to such an extreme extent…let alone happening twice in as many days.

Expedited Security: CLEAR + TSA PreCheck / Global Entry Perks

One of the hidden gems of carrying the AmEx Platinum Card is the travel-security upgrades — via CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck / Global Entry.

With Platinum, you can get a statement credit for the cost of CLEAR Plus (up to roughly $209/year) — which covers the membership fee for CLEAR.
What is CLEAR? CLEAR speeds up airport security by using biometric verification (fingerprint / eye scan) so you bypass the standard security line and move to a much faster lane — a huge time-saver if you’re flying frequently.

If you prefer traditional hallway screening, AmEx also offers a statement credit toward the application fee for TSA PreCheck (or Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck) — typically covering the ~$78–$120 fee every few years.

For travelers like us — often flying for military moves, leave trips, or spontaneous getaways — the expedited security lines cut a lot of stress and hassle. Plus, add a college aged kid or two to the mix, and travel just becomes our new norm.

Bonus: you can combine CLEAR with TSA PreCheck (if eligible), for maximum speed through airport security.

Airport Lounge Access

Another major perk of the AmEx Platinum — and one we personally use often — is access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), and Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta the same day.

What you get:
Comfortable seating, high-speed WiFi, complimentary food + drinks (sometimes full meals), dedicated workspaces, and a calm place to unwind before flights. Check the guest rules — usually there is a charge for children/guests.

D.C. Area Note:

• DCA (Reagan National) currently has a Centurion Lounge.

• IAD (Dulles) does not yet have a Centurion Lounge, though AmEx has been expanding its network nationwide.

Lounge access is one of those perks that doesn’t sound major until you’re in the middle of holiday travel chaos — and suddenly having a quiet place to sit, snack, and recharge feels priceless.

Bottom line: When used intentionally — especially if you travel, dine out, or use ride shares even occasionally — the annual fee can quickly pay for itself. For us, the flexibility and perks make it feel less like a fee and more like a travel investment.

Don’t Miss the Sign-On Bonus

One of the smartest tricks: timing your application right.

Because of a 2025 refresh, sign-up bonuses for the AmEx Platinum Card are especially attractive — sometimes (and currently) up to 175,000+ Membership Rewards® points, depending on the current offer and spending requirement.

For someone who travels even a couple times a year, that bonus alone can fund flights or a round-trip — making the card’s value skyrocket from day one.

If you want to apply now, you can use our referral link — which may surface exclusive or enhanced offers:
👉 AmEx Platinum Referral Link

🔄 How We Stack Rakuten + AmEx Platinum for Maximum Points

What is Rakuten: A free cash-back platform that partners with thousands of retailers.

Our Strategy:

1. Use Rakuten for holiday shopping, gifts, travel gear, and everyday purchases.

2. In Rakuten’s “payout settings,” choose Membership Rewards® points (instead of cash) — $1 cash-back = 100 AmEx points.

3. Let Rakuten’s quarterly payout send points straight into our AmEx account.

4. Stack those points with the ones we earn directly on the Platinum Card (flights, hotel bookings, etc.).

That means — when done intentionally — normal spending becomes “travel fuel.”

Our Rakuten referral link (if you want to join too):
👉 Rakuten Referral – SHELBY30017

For those of you who live locally and use Giant — we’ve only had to “link” our AmEx and “activate” it once — and thank goodness! It racks up our points without us even having to think about it or remembering to hit that activate button, even for filling up on gas. Usually, when we shop online (Laura Geller, Shutterfly, Mpix, PetSmart, HoneyBook and others - legitimately you can visit hundreds of other partner stores) the “Activate” button appears and we click it; but just to be sure, keep Rakuten on your browser and you can see if you can find the store on the site to activate it when shopping. While we are out and about, we typically have to remember to go and “Activate” so that the points count. That said, we have been pleasantly surprised when points show up because of places like Taco Bueno or other smaller businesses we don’t generally think of for points in this way.

The key really is to be intentional — when you pull that card out to use it, be sure to check to see if Rakuten is a partner for where you are. Maybe put a purple Sharpie dot on the front (note to Shelby to DO this)! Before you know it, you’ll have hundreds, if not thousands of points saved, just for shopping as you normally do. And look for deals! Sometimes, stores you frequent (online or in store) may have 2% cash back normally, but during the holidays or just random times, that could be up to 10% or even 12% for a limited time.

Holiday Shopping Meets Travel Strategy

With the holidays here — between gifts, travel to see family, winter getaways and college kids flying home — this combo becomes especially powerful. Kids coming home and you’re purchasing the plane tickets — no problem. Head over to Expedia and get your cash back. Or, you can also go through American Express. Truly, tons of deals if you’re on the lookout.

We’ve already started shopping locally (we love to support small businesses), but for bigger purchases or gifts we’re doing online — always through Rakuten. If you go to the Outlet Malls, there are quite a few stores that will give in store purchase points! Adidas is one of our favorites (two athletic kiddos) — so we usually get some points that way.

If you’re entertaining family this year, and maybe the house is a little full, consider using that credit to gift a day or two of a hotel stay, so the house isn’t too overwhelmed. The American Express Platinum Card is fantastic for hotel bookings, flights, dining, and transportation — be sure you’re taking full advantage of what is offered.

If you do it just right, it might even feel good to know that your holiday spending isn’t just another expense — it’s part of building your next adventure.

Final Thoughts: Use It With Intention — Let the Card & Rakuten Pay for Itself

We don’t carry the Platinum Card for the flex (although to be honest, we do get some looks and maybe once a month someone comments on how heavy it is!). We carry it because it works — especially when used strategically.

Between:

• The 2025 sign-on bonus (right now, up to 175,000 points)

• $600 hotel credit

• $400 dining credit ($100 x 4 quarters)

• Uber & transport credits

• Everyday lifestyle perks

• And Rakuten stacking for purchases...

We’re able to turn holidays, shopping, and everyday life into future travel.

If you travel — even occasionally — this combination could be a game-changer. We hope that this has been informative and will be the game-changer YOU need to increase your travel in 2026 and the years to come.

Disclaimers

Affiliate Disclosure:
Shutter & Compass, LLC participates in affiliate and referral partnerships. Some of the links above are referral or affiliate links. If you choose to sign up or apply through these links, we may earn a small commission or bonus, at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our travel content and keep the blog running.

Accuracy Disclaimer:
The information above is current as of November 29, 2025. Benefits, credits, annual fees, sign-on bonuses, and APRs can change. Always refer directly to the official websites for the most up-to-date details before applying or making decisions.

Travel Tuesday 2025: Best Deals, Smart Savings Strategies, and Planning for 2026 Travel

Travel Tuesday 2025: Our Guide to the Best Deals, Smarter Savings, and Planning for 2026 Adventures

If you’re anything like us—Shelby with her color-coded calendars (yes, multiple) and Megan with a suitcase that somehow stays half-packed year-round (yes, we enjoy travel, we do not enjoy tedious chores)—Travel Tuesday is practically a holiday of its own. We genuinely love travel, but we also love stretching our dollars so we can see more, stay longer, and say yes to the kinds of experiences that shape the heart of The Compass Journal. Each time we find a great deal or shave a little off a hotel rate, that savings always fuels something for the next trip—a sunrise excursion we wouldn’t have splurged on, a room upgrade, or a “why not?” detour that becomes the highlight of the whole getaway.

And in full honesty: we had hoped to share this guide earlier, but it’s been a wonderfully chaotic Thanksgiving weekend. So here we are—still on time for the deals, coffee in hand, ready to walk you through the best of Travel Tuesday 2025 and how to make it work for your 2026 travel dreams.

What Is Travel Tuesday—and Why It Matters for 2025–2026 Travel?

Travel Tuesday (sometimes called Travel Deal Tuesday) is the Tuesday after Cyber Monday, and it has quietly become one of the most consistently reliable sales days in the travel industry. Airlines, hotels, booking platforms, cruise lines, and tour companies use it to release some of their steepest discounts of the entire year. It’s not just hype—year after year, data shows price drops, last-minute flash deals, and incentives designed to push bookings for the upcoming year.

For travelers trying to plan ahead—or for those who simply want to squeeze the most value out of every mile—Travel Tuesday can make a surprising difference in how far your budget stretches.

Travel Tuesday 2025: Deals You Can Actually Grab — What’s Live or Expected

Travel Tuesday this year brings some of the most compelling hotel and travel discounts we’ve seen in a while - at least according to the internet. Platforms like Expedia and Hotels.com are leading the charge with major savings, and several cruise lines (including Virgin Voyages) have deals that could make a 2026 trip much more affordable.

Some of the highlights to watch for:

• Expedia and Hotels.com are offering up to 50% off thousands of hotels for bookings made between November 20 and December 2, 2025.

• On select properties during flash-deal windows (Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Travel Tuesday), some hotel stays drop as much as 75% off. These are limited-time, limited-room offers—and they go fast.

• The deals cover a wide range of accommodations: from urban boutique hotels and city stays to beach resorts, mountain rentals, and vacation homes. Many of these offers extend into 2026 travel dates, giving ample flexibility for planning.

• On the cruise front, Virgin Voyages is offering a strong holiday-sale package: 80% off for a second “Sailor,” plus bonus perks like free drink credits — a deal that could make your next cruise much more budget-friendly.

• That said, major theme-park operators (like big “bucket-list” resorts or entertainment-heavy destinations) have not publicly confirmed Travel Tuesday–specific packages or discounts as of this writing. We do however, want to note that while they do not necessarily subscribe to the “Travel Tuesday” verbiage, they may actually be cooking up some deals, so watch out for those if you have a Disney or Universal trip in mind. Always worth checking for those savings! Disney Parks Blog may share some promotions for Disney, as this has apparently happened in the past.

If you’ve got flexibility in dates or destination — or you’ve been dreaming of a trip and want to grab great value — this might be the time to act. We always, however, encourage keeping an eye on those “deals” … some look good up front or even during certain times of the year, but if you track trends, you may be surprised.

How to Maximize Savings: Layering Cashback, Points & Sale Discounts

One of the smartest ways to make Travel Tuesday work for you is by stacking discounts with rewards — and that’s where using cashback portals and credit-card points comes in handy.

By starting your hotel search on Expedia or Hotels.com through your Rakuten referral link (see link below), you can earn Rakuten cashback on top of the sale price. Then, paying with an AmEx card adds another layer — AmEx points or cash-back accumulate from the same purchase.

If you book a flexible or refundable rate, you lock in the discounted price but retain the option to rebook if something better comes along later or if your plans shift. The savings you collect — through discounts, cashback, or points — become extra travel “fuel”: maybe toward an upgrade, a spa night, a longer stay, or a dreamy add-on experience.

Because we know many readers asked for a walkthrough of this process, our next post will map out exactly how to combine Rakuten, AmEx rewards, and flash-sale pricing to squeeze maximum value from Travel Tuesday and holiday-season deals. Until then, feel free to start your search using our referral links below.

Rakuten Referral Link

AmEx Referral Link
(yes, my husband’s name is Marcus)

What to Watch Out For — Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

• Obviously, no sale is perfect. Some of the steepest discounts come with trade-offs. Many flash deals are non-refundable or carry blackout dates, which could be problematic if plans change. It’s essential to check all fees — resort fees, taxes, parking, extras — so you know what you’re really paying.

• Also, when stacking rewards: make sure your tracking is valid (Rakuten shows the click-through confirmed, and payment goes through the correct card). Loose tracking or incorrect payment methods can cancel your cashback or points — wiping out part of the savings.

• And flash deals don’t wait — hesitation might mean someone else snags the room or cruise before you make up your mind. If you spot a good match for your calendar and budget, act quickly.

What We’re Dreaming of for 2026 — Destinations We're Watching

The biggest reason we love Travel Tuesday is because it sets the tone for the next year of adventures. For 2026, we’re thinking about another Caribbean escape—maybe Barbados again, maybe a new island we haven’t documented yet. Las Vegas is also on our radar for a blend of luxury stays and photo-forward experiences, and of course our favorite close-to-home escapes throughout DC, Northern Virginia, and the Eastern Seaboard will keep us exploring throughout the year.

We love sharing the journey, but we also love showing how savings on today’s bookings create freedom for tomorrow’s adventures. Whether that’s a longer stay, a private excursion, a higher-category cabin on a cruise, or a curated photo session in a destination that deserves to be captured beautifully, these deals help build the experiences that matter most.

What’s Coming Next: A Deep Dive into Cashback & Points Strategy

Our next post will take you behind the scenes of how we personally use American Express and Rakuten to layer rewards onto travel bookings. It’s the strategy that lets us turn sales events like Travel Tuesday into meaningful long-term perks, and it’s one we think many travelers could benefit from. Stay tuned for the full breakdown.

Affiliate Disclosure & Accuracy Disclaimer

Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you choose to make a purchase. This comes at no additional cost to you. All information—including pricing, dates, and availability—was accurate, to the best of our knowledge, at the time of writing. Travel policies, cancellations, and offers can change quickly; please verify final details directly with the travel provider before booking.

Trading Pumpkins for Peppermint: What to Expect in Northern Virginia and Washington DC During the Holidays

As we trade pumpkins for peppermint, we’re diving into one of our favorite times of the year: the holidays! To help you make the most of this festive, upcoming Christmas Season, we’ve gathered up some of Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.’s top holiday events to enjoy this year.

Of course, we implore you to double-check each event’s official website for the latest dates, times, and ticket details before heading out.

Northern Virginia Holiday Highlights

Middleburg Christmas Parade – December 7, 2025
https://www.middleburgva.gov/356/December---Holiday-Activities
Middleburg’s annual Christmas celebration is one of the most charming holiday traditions in Virginia. The day begins with the iconic Christmas Parade featuring horses, hounds, and festive floats parading down Washington Street, followed by shopping, caroling, and hot chocolate. The whole town transforms into a Hallmark-worthy holiday scene that’s not to be missed.

Reston Town Center Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting – November 28, 2025
https://restontowncenter.com/
Reston Town Center kicks off the season with a lively parade, community sing-along, and the ceremonial lighting of its towering Christmas tree. It’s a family-friendly event filled with performances, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a warm, small-town feel right in the heart of Northern Virginia.

Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights (Vienna, VA) – November 8, 2025 – January 7, 2026
https://www.novaparks.com/events/winter-walk-of-lights
Stroll through a dazzling half-mile of holiday lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. This illuminated trail winds through gardens and wooded areas, making it a peaceful, magical experience perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to slow down and savor the season.

Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville, VA) – November 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026
https://www.novaparks.com/events/bull-run-festival-of-lights
Drive through 2.5 miles of spectacular light displays at Bull Run Regional Park. The festival also features a Holiday Village with carnival rides, food, and photos with Santa, making it a long-standing local favorite for families across the region.

Leesburg Christmas and Holiday Parade – December 14, 2025
https://www.leesburgva.gov/departments/parks-recreation/events
Downtown Leesburg glows with holiday cheer during this annual parade and community celebration. Enjoy festive floats, local marching bands, and a true small-town Virginia holiday atmosphere.

Washington, D.C. Holiday Highlights

Downtown Holiday Market (Penn Quarter) – November 22 – December 23, 2025
https://downtownholidaymarket.com/
This open-air market brings a European flair to downtown D.C. with artisan goods, food vendors, live music, and hot drinks. It’s a great place to pick up unique gifts and experience holiday cheer in the city’s cultural heart.

The Wharf’s District Holiday Boat Parade – December 6, 2025
https://www.wharfdc.com/
The Wharf’s waterfront lights up with a stunning parade of decorated boats, fireworks, and live entertainment. There’s also a waterfront beer garden and s’mores by the fire pits—an ideal way to enjoy the season with a view.

Georgetown GLOW – December 6, 2025 – January 12, 2026
https://www.georgetownglowdc.com/
This immersive art experience features outdoor light installations throughout Georgetown’s streets and waterfront. It’s free, walkable, and makes for stunning evening photos and cozy winter strolls.

National Christmas Tree Lighting (The Ellipse) – December 4, 2025
https://thenationaltree.org/
A cherished D.C. tradition since 1923, this annual tree lighting near the White House features live performances and a truly magical atmosphere. Free tickets are distributed via lottery, so plan ahead for this unforgettable experience.

Downtown D.C. Holiday Lights – November 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026
https://downtowndcholidaylights.org/
Explore 20 blocks of lights and displays in downtown D.C., with participating restaurants and shops offering holiday specials. Perfect for date night or a festive evening walk with friends.

Bonus: Christmas at Gaylord National / ICE!
National Harbor, MD – November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026

Experience the holiday for real: giant hand-carved ice sculptures (over 2 million pounds of ice!) featuring scenes from The Polar Express ™, thrilling ice slides, indoor snow tubing, scavenger hunts, and sprawling Christmas décor inside a resort along the Potomac. Be sure to bundle your tickets ahead of time and check for dress/accessibility notes (it’s kept at ~9 °F inside the main ice attraction). https://www.christmasatgaylordnational.com/ The images above were taken from 2022 when Shelby and her family enjoyed the “A Christmas Story” theme…and really, can’t you just HEAR some of the captions?!! Loved it so much. And it was definitely VERY cold! Towards the end of the attraction, they also had an Ice Nativity, and it was truly breathtaking. Well done - and thank you for incorporating the true meaning of Christmas!

We’re so excited to make the most of the season ahead—and to share our adventures with you along the way. Follow Shutter and Compass for more holiday fun, festive inspiration, and travel stories as we count down to closing out an incredible 2025!

Shutter and Compass: October Haunts and a Savory Brunch in Old Town Alexandria

How is it Already November?

Somehow, we’ve found ourselves halfway through the month, with Christmas lights beginning to twinkle and New Year’s Eve just around the corner. Time flies when you’re having fun—and that’s definitely been the case for Shutter and Compass this fall!

Let’s take it back to October for a quick recap. Once y’all see how busy we’ve been, you’ll know why we haven’t been able to update the blog nearly as much as we’d both like!

We kicked off the month with a Dominion Valley Country Club neighbor’s invitation to try out a ghostly good time at The Winery at Bull Run! Such a fun idea, and we had a group of twenty meet up at The Winery where we enjoyed an assortment of wine throughout a ghost tour. One of the best things about the community that we live in is things like this — an open invitation for anyone who’d like to get out and enjoy group experiences can sign up, connect, and just enjoy life together. The Haunted Wine Tours at The Winery at Bull Run, start towards the end of September and go through October. We enjoyed the time away from the busy-ness of October and it helped us get into the Spooky Season with a bang! Plus, being on the Manassas Battlefield…well, there’s something a little “extra” about these stories that felt so real in many ways. We really can’t express how much a great evening with amazing friends and neighbors can really reset your mind. This was a welcome “treat”…with so amazing spirits!

Shelby and Megan stopped to pose with one of the “spirits” of the evening. The Winery at Bull Run did a great job with the ghost stories.

About mid-October, we received a delightful invitation to brunch at Chadwicks in Old Town Alexandria as hosted guests. When we are asked to do restaurant reviews, we want you to know how seriously we take it. Megan and Shelby go through each item (and this time, our husbands did as well) and typically we savor the yumminess we’ve been blessed to try. That said, we only give authentic reviews - everything we share, we need you to know it’s genuine. In this case, for Chadwicks, we already knew it would be delicious as we had heard great things, but there were plenty of pleasant surprises on the menu—especially the Rill Dill, Chadwick’s creative twist on a Bloody Mary that was a hit all around, and the Flappy Jack, which instantly became a new favorite. It surprised us, too! Its unique combination of flavors - stemming from both breakfast and lunch servings - is something different than we would have imagined together, but it was really good and dipping it in the syrup…just do it! We also enjoyed the Huevos Rancheros - and Chadwick’s has a delightful take on the traditional dish. The Steak and Eggs with the delicious chimichurri sauce was a hit (and those breakfast potatoes!), and while not all of us are lovers of seafood, those who are enjoyed the Eggs Chesapeake. It was flavorful and the taste was yummy, and dare we say…it gave us the feel of a nice Coastal take on a breakfast treat. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and exactly what you want on a crisp autumn weekend. Additional perk — the Halloween decor was on point, and we loved the overall feel of Chadwicks. The staircase, the bar, the open space come together to create a great atmosphere. We had an impressive server who was as kind as she was attentive, and this only added to the positive experience. You can find our IG Reel Quick Review here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQMyq00jnsm/. We want to also mention — if you like Espresso Martinis, try the one from Chadwicks. They actually use a cold brew in stead of espresso, but we would not have known otherwise and truly, it was delish. As was the Brunch Punch — a sweet and fruity choice that truly hit the spot!

And as always if you go, let them know Shutter and Compass recommended them, and let us know what you got and what you thought!

Pro Tip: Just trust us on this - get the Fried Green Tomatoes, and don’t be stingy spreading the bacon jam and jalapeño cream. Just thank us later!

Bonus Pro Tip: If you’re either a photographer or a photography client getting those iconic Captain’s Row pictures with the cobblestone road … treat yourself to this afterward! It’s just past the cobblestone toward the waterfront. You won’t be disappointed!

Of course, as with every year, October was also filled with spooky party fun! Halloween is always a favorite season for us, and this year was no exception. Dressed as Mary Poppins and Mary Ann from Gilligan’s Island, we - along with our significant others also dressed in character, enjoyed the fruits of Megan’s labor at Megan’s Annual Monster Mash Halloween Party! This was the first major party of the season, and was once again frightfully festive; we kept the celebrations going at another Dominion Valley neighbor’s party—both of which were…to die for. Boyett Manor is well known for its creativity and ghoulish decor, and this year was no exception. Has anyone checked in on Audrey?! #IYKYK We love friends who open their homes and put so much into every detail. I can speak for all of us who attend each year - we are grateful for your dedication and hard work in hosting these events.

We also ventured into Haymarket to celebrate one of our favorite people, Kenny Brooks of Brooks Heating and Air, who marked his 10th Anniversary in business by hosting an incredible community Halloween celebration - BrooksFest 2025. From trunk-or-treating and costume contests to food, friends, and fun, it was the perfect way to celebrate both local business and community spirit. We believe it was a huge hit, a wonderfully festive time for the community, and a treasured event that will hopefully continue through the years! We absolutely love Kenny and his keen business sense, but also his kindness and warmth. He’s one of those people where we can honestly say, “if you don’t know Kenny, you need to.” If you’re in the Northern Virginia area, please follow Kenny or connect with him (especially if you’re in need of HVAC services!) - https://brookshvac.com. You can also find him on Facebook HERE.

While we have tons of pictures of our costume contestants (provided by Shelby Leigh Photography, LLC), we added just a few of some amazing people behind the scenes and huge supporters of our community - those who took time to host the trunk-or-treat and make all of this happen! Shout outs to: Brooks Heating & Air, and of course, Kenny and Maureen Brooks, Trouvaille Brewing Co., Jim and Andrea Payne of A Pup’s Valley, David Kemp of PestProof Pest Management, Wayne Mitchell with Caring Senior Service of Northern Virginia, Ace Handyman Services - Northern Virginia, Anita Sadlack with State Farm (and Paulina Stowell, with Century 21 New Millennium), Brittany Elkins owner of Balance Physical Therapy, and of course, the Town of Haymarket and the Police Department - special props to Officer Anderson! He’s a great sport and quite the model! We had so many more participants - please note that this is just a quick handful. We are grateful, and we know Kenny loves the community spirit! Check out our IG reel of BrooksFest!

Shelby managed to squeeze in (legitimately in the last hour!) the ever popular Haymarket Day that we’ve mentioned our Perfect Day in Haymarket, VA post, found HERE! It was a beautiful afternoon, and an event that we look forward to each year. We do highly recommend getting there before we did — the crepes that we had looked forward to were sold out by the time we got there. No worries - we still enjoyed some Moo Thru Ice Cream, hanging out and walking our little town with Bailey, our pup, and just enjoying the day. It was wonderful to run into old friends and new, and to enjoy our little Town of Haymarket as a family.

Last tid-bit we’ll add, as it’s SO IMPORTANT! Both Megan and Shelby also had the opportunity to spend a few days in Raleigh, North Carolina for the Eye Believe Survivorship Seminar. For those that don’t know, Megan’s other full time job is with a non profit called A Cure in Sight for Ocular Melanoma (ACIS). This is incredibly meaningful to Megan as her mom, Melody Burchett started this non profit after her battle with Ocular Melanoma. ACIS is on a mission to provide patient services for those who have ocular melanoma. They asked Shelby if she would be willing to photograph the event, and as it’s important to one, it’s important to the other partner! So we met up in Raleigh and worked to document this informational and inspiring seminar. While it’s not exactly “what we do” … it is. Because it’s important to share this information and the resources to help the community going through eye cancer. If you or anyone you know has ocular melanoma, please know that there is a community out here for you. You can connect with A Cure in Sight at www.acureinsight.org.

Lucy Brummett, inspirational writer and coach with Megan and Shelby at the Eye Believe Seminar in Raleigh NC - 2025

Initially, when we started this particular blog post, we thought we’d add the November happenings, but as you can see, this is plenty long as is…

So, stay tuned - November and December’s events will be forthcoming, and we hope you are getting into the holiday spirit!

One Year of Shutter and Compass: Travel, Photography, and Adventures Around the World

It’s hard to believe that just one year ago, Shutter and Compass was nothing more than two best friends daydreaming about how we could combine our passions for travel, storytelling, and photography. Today, that dream is a thriving travel and lifestyle brand filled with blog posts, podcasts, social media content, and unforgettable adventures.

Shutter and Compass is the result of two photographers—Shelby and Megan—who wanted to share more than just pretty pictures. Megan, with a background as a travel agent, realized that her true calling wasn’t booking trips but living them, documenting them, and inspiring others to follow their wanderlust. With Shelby’s photography expertise and shared love of exploration, the path became clear: create a platform where our imagery, words, and voices could transport people into the heart of travel.

At its core, Shutter and Compass is:

• A travel blog and podcast filled with tips, stories, and insights. Have you subscribed to our YouTube Channel? If not, this is an open invitation!

• A content creation hub for businesses who want to showcase their experiences, services, or destinations with a professional and creative touch.

• A photography brand that thrives on capturing detail, emotion, and adventure.

• A community for travelers—especially women ages 25–55 who are inspired by exploration, luxury travel, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Our Facebook Group is growing to be a wealth of knowledge for newbie travelers and experienced alike.

Whether we’re highlighting a charming winery in Virginia, sailing the Caribbean with Virgin Voyages, or racing through Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, our goal is the same: to bring our imagery and storytelling to the masses and help others discover the beauty and excitement waiting for them.

October 2024

Just one year ago, at the Shutter and Compass Launch Party at The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm! Grateful for Sunshine Ridge and Maria Rafferty who graciously allowed us to celebrate there — and Maria and Sunshine were the first official video published!
Grateful for so many who came out to support and offer services, including Ofe Cox and her team at Love Wedding & Events, and Ester Malinowski, of Castle Drive Flowers. We couldn’t do what we do without support from our amazing small business family!

Local Adventures: The Best of the DMV and Northern Virginia

This past year, we leaned into our own backyard and discovered how much there is to see and do right here in the Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia area.

We’ve highlighted some of the region’s most beloved spots:

• Lark Brewing Co - A relatively new local gem that we LOVE hanging out at! Great for relaxing weekends or weeknights, and family friendly.

• Stone Tower Winery – A gorgeous backdrop for wine lovers, where rustic charm meets rolling hills.

• The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm – A hidden gem on the water with a welcoming community and a perfect sunset view. Maria and her team are fantastic, and we’ll always love our adults only time to just chill with a lake view.

• The People’s House in Washington, D.C. – A unique space blending history, architecture, and a sense of national pride. As it’s only a year old, this was a perfect way to check out some of what DC h as to offer, without the craziness.

• Alexandria Colonial Tours Ghost Tour – An after-dark adventure that revealed the spooky (and fascinating) history of Old Town Alexandria.

• Nationals Game from a rooftop — yes, please!

• We didn’t forget the winter festivities - between the Bull Run Festival of Lights and Hi Lawn’s Northern Lights Dome Experience on Union Market’s rooftop, we had it covered with unique and fun visual outings.

And that’s just to name a few amazing opportunities for local travel we’ve enjoyed. Our local content has reached tens of thousands of views and proved that people are hungry to explore what’s right outside their front door. We also had the immense honor of video hosting the opening for one of our favorite local charities, Boxes of Basics. How incredible is it to have people, friends, and groups acknowledge all that we are doing, even as a brand new business?! Truly, we love being able to support our community, and this was a fantastic opportunity to help shed light on the issue of clothing insecurity.

Besties doing what we do…for our favorite charity.

Blessed to be asked by Sarah Tyndall of Boxes of Basics to open for their Dueling Keys for a Cause event. While we were still quite new to being “public” and on video, we got out of our comfort zones and went for it! It was a blast, and using our skills for charity was an honor.

Learn more about Boxes of Basics, volunteer, or donate here: https://boxesofbasics.org

Thank you to Tammy with Sweetheart Photo Booths - so great finally connecting on this special evening!

International Travel: Cruising the Caribbean

Internationally, we spent time in the Caribbean aboard Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady, sailing to some of the most stunning islands in the world. From San Juan, Puerto Rico to Tortola, Bridgetown, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, and St. Maarten, we captured and shared a “sample size” of each destination. This particular cruise was either our 2nd (Shelby) or 3rd (Megan) cruise with Virgin, and let us say — we are fans. For adult cruising. Otherwise, I think we’d go Disney all the way!

Cruising allows us to experience beaches, local culture, and community life in quick snapshots—whether it’s soaking up the sun, tasting fresh island flavors, or wandering cobblestone streets. And the beauty is, if a place captures our hearts (and many of these islands did), we know we can always go back for a longer stay. Megan will be heading back to Jost van Dyke in February and is excited about the opportunity to bring you images and stories from our favorite island!! Truly, it’s a must-do.

Our podcasts and videos about Virgin Voyages have inspired others to consider cruising as their next vacation. It’s a lifestyle we’ve fallen in love with—relaxing, adventurous, and filled with stories to tell. We are also thrilled to share that we’ve opened up our podcasts to include guest speakers to share guidance and experiences, and you’ll want to keep listening for more!

National Travel: A Day at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe

Closer to home, we traveled to Florida to experience the newest Universal theme park: Epic Universe. Even though we had only one day, we made it count, traveling through each portal and fully immersing ourselves in the magic.

Highlights included:

• Helios Grand Hotel – Elegant and stunning, a luxurious anchor to the park. We highly recommend this amazing hotel if you can swing it. Yes, it’s expensive, and there’s no real way around that. But the ease of getting into and out of the park, plus the captivating views makes it worth it. At least once.

• Ministry of Magic (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter) – A stunningly detailed expansion that transports you straight into the magical heart of Harry Potter’s world. From intricate architecture to immersive storytelling, this new land is a must-see for fans who want to step inside the Ministry itself.

• Isle of Berk (How to Train Your Dragon) – Shelby met Toothless (a true bucket-list moment!) and we all felt like Vikings flying through the skies. From the moment you walk in to see this “Isle”…you are fully immersed. It’s not just magical, it’s transformative. You’ll walk right alongside your favorite HTTYD characters!

• Mario World (Super Nintendo World) – Our teenagers were in heaven, racing through Donkey Kong, meeting Luigi, and dining at Toadstool Café. The only thing we all wish we had more of — time in the park!

• Dark Universe – Creepy, thrilling, and a must-see for fans of Universal’s iconic monsters. Truth be told, we weren’t ‘as’ excited about this Universe. That said - it was VERY well done. Go at night. You’ll thank us.

• Celestial Park – A beautifully designed hub that ties everything together. The food, the atmosphere and the Stardust Racers Coaster are all fantastic! Again, the ONLY thing we needed at Epic was more time.

We were especially impressed with Universal’s attention to dietary needs, making it easy for allergy-conscious families to enjoy their visit. And beyond the rides and restaurants, we treasured the chance to create memories with our children—whether they’re small kids or (like ours) 19-year-old college students who still light up at the magic of theme parks.

Beyond Epic Universe, we also spent two regular park days at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. These days were packed with thrills, from riding the heart-pounding VelociCoaster to soaking in every magical detail of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Universal always delivers when it comes to immersive worlds and adrenaline-pumping attractions, and it’s a destination we never get tired of returning to.

We also dedicated a full week to Walt Disney World. While Universal is our go-to for big-kid rides and roller coasters, Disney will forever hold a special, nostalgic place in our hearts. We are, and always will be, Disney kids at heart—captivated by the magic, the storytelling, and the joy that fills every corner of the parks. From Cinderella’s Castle to EPCOT evenings, Disney remains a place where our family makes memories that last a lifetime.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Shutter and Compass

While our first year has been filled with growth, exploration, and storytelling, we’re just getting started. Behind the scenes, we’re working on some exciting projects and collaborations that we can’t wait to share with you.

And looking further ahead, we’re thrilled to announce our First Annual Shutter and Compass Group Trip to Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica in May 2026! We’ll be partnering with our friend and travel expert, Kristen Faye Alfred (@Travel.With.Kristen), to host an unforgettable all-inclusive getaway. If you’ve been inspired by our travels and want to experience the Shutter and Compass community in person, this is your chance. Whether you join us for the full group experience or simply want an excuse to escape to Jamaica, we’d love to see you there.

Thank You for a Wonderful First Year

This journey would not be possible without all of you—our readers, listeners, collaborators, and fellow travelers. Your encouragement and support have helped Shutter and Compass grow from an idea into a brand that inspires, connects, and creates. And, in our first year, we are honored to have even won our very first award! Each year, Inside Nova hosts a competition, and we are beyond grateful to have won The Best of Prince William County - Best Blogger Award. Seriously, y’all. Pinch us!! We love what we do, and we are blessed to share it with an audience who supports and encourages our work.

Here’s to more adventures, more stories, and more memories in the year ahead. ✨

Why You Can’t Visit San Francisco Without Stopping at Boudin Bakery

If you ever find yourself wandering the salt-sprayed piers of San Francisco, chasing sea breeze and the occasional sea lion bark, there’s one stop I always treasure: Boudin Bakery. On my recent trip, I couldn’t resist revisiting this Californian icon — a place where history, carbs, and nostalgia all happily collide.

A Bite of History (and Yes, That Mother Dough)

Boudin isn’t just a San Francisco thing — it’s a California classic. Their claim to fame? A sourdough starter that stretches back to 1849, born of French baking tradition and local wild yeast that survived the Gold Rush.

Legend has it, one of the original “49ers” passed along the mother dough to Isidore Boudin, who merged it with his French technique to bake something uniquely San Franciscan. In the 1906 quake and fire, the bakery was destroyed — but Louise Boudin famously scooped up the mother dough in a bucket and fled, ensuring the line stayed alive.

And that same mother dough (or a faithful descendant) is still used today — making every loaf a little echo of the past.

Walking the Wharf & Touring the Bakery

The Boudin flagship at Fisherman’s Wharf is more than just a bakery. It’s part café, part show kitchen, part souvenir shop — a one-stop for your bread dreams (and your instagram).

You can peek behind glass windows at bakers mixing, shaping, and baking those tangy loaves. Tours are offered — you get to see how the sourdough rises, how the ovens work, and yes, sample fresh bread.

One tip: time your visit so you're there near bread-baking times, when things are busiest- and smell-iest, in the best possible way. And don’t skip the restaurant, Bistro Boudin, for waterfront dining — there’s something delightful about pairing clam chowder (in a sourdough bowl, naturally) with a view of the bay.

Also — sneak over to the gift shop afterward. I adore their “fog globe” — basically a snow globe with the Golden Gate Bridge inside, but where the glitter swirls like fog rolling over the bridge. It’s part souvenir, part perfect tiny encapsulation of SF’s moody weather.

Disneyland & The Mickey Sourdough Connection

Here’s a fun twist: if you’ve ever visited Disneyland or Disney California Adventure, there’s a replica Boudin Bakery tucked into San Fransokyo Square (formerly Pacific Wharf). They host a Bakery Tour there, and yes — you can buy sourdough loaves shaped like Mickey’s head, and sometimes other characters. Plus, the tour gives out free samples — hard to argue with that.)

When Disney’s version of the bakery first opened in 2001, it was more structured (video + guided route). In 2015, they updated it into a more open, free-flowing walkthrough, but kept the historical intro video.

Why You Should Stop By on Your San Francisco Itinerary

• It’s iconic. Boudin is the oldest continuously operating business in San Francisco.

• Sensory overload (in a good way). The smell of fresh bread, the sight of bakers at work, the taste of crusty sourdough — it’s a full experience, not just a snack stop.

• Perfect photo fodder. From loaves to ovens to the fog globe — your camera will thank you.

• Food + ambiance. Grab a sandwich, a soup in a sourdough bowl, a pastry, or just a loaf to go. Sit by the water, watch the ships, breathe the salty air.

• Gift potential. That fog globe, specialty bread, packaged goods — you’ll find something unique to bring home.

• For the nostalgia lovers. If California was a fixture of your family vacations (as it was for me), revisiting Boudin feels like reuniting with an old friend.

A Few Pro Tips & Tidbits

• Mornings tend to be fresher (bread that’s hot from the oven) and less crowded.

• Watch out for “bread bowl + chowder” combo specials — they often maximize deliciousness and value.

• Ask staff what the “fresh batch” schedule is — you’ll get your loaf just as it emerges.

• Bring a sturdy tote or reusable bag for souvenirs — that fog globe, bottles, or specialty packaged loaves can be heavier than expected.

• Don’t skip exploring the historic displays inside the bakery; you’ll find tidbits about the starter’s lineage, the quake-era history, and more.

Walking into Boudin feels like stepping into a warm, yeasty hug. It’s about roots, tradition, and memory. For me, it’s the tingle in the air reminding me of road trips to California, of my mom’s fondness for sourdough, of Disneyland’s Bakery Tour when I was younger. Reconnecting with it on this trip felt like honoring all those memories — and creating new ones (with extra butter).

If you’re planning a San Francisco escape, give yourself a little time to linger at Boudin. Let the smells pull you in, let your camera click on crusty loaves, and let your tastebuds revel. It’s a detour worth taking.

San Francisco sourdough · Boudin Bakery Fisherman’s Wharf · Best places to eat in San Francisco · Clam chowder bread bowl · Things to do near Pier 39

A Perfect Day in Haymarket, VA: Small-Town Charm, Local Flavor, and Haymarket Day 2025

We’ve covered some of the major events happening in the Northern Virginia / DMV area this fall (did anyone get out to see Bealeton’s Balloon Festival?!), but we really wanted to spend some time sharing a bit about our little hometown, Haymarket. If you want to see Haymarket at its very best, plan your visit around Haymarket Day—the town’s biggest event of the year. But even on a quiet weekend, this historic small town has a Hallmark-movie charm that’s impossible to resist. If you’re into Gilmore Girls at all…think Stars Hollow…we even have our everyday hangouts that never get old! Now if we could just find Luke…ha! With roots tracing back to 1799, Haymarket has always been a crossroads for travelers and locals, and today it still shines as a place to slow down, shop small, and savor the moment.

Strolling and Shopping in Downtown Haymarket

One of the best ways to experience Haymarket, Virginia, is by browsing its locally owned shops. At Details for the Home, every shelf feels like a curated treasure chest, filled with seasonal décor, artisan candles, stylish kitchenware, and hostess gifts. The ever-changing inventory—from cozy autumn accents to breezy summer pieces—makes it a place you’ll want to revisit often. Less than a minute away (by car) is Peace & Laughter Holistic Boutique, located in a little shopping square in the heart of Haymarket. This charming, new-age store invites you into a calming space full of crystals, teas, journals, and wellness finds. The boutique also hosts unique community events like moon circles and tarot nights that give it an extra layer of charm. For a treasure-hunt vibe, step inside The Copper Cricket, an upscale consignment shop that earned a Best of Virginia 2025 Award. From gently loved furniture to vintage décor and statement pieces, it’s a place where every item feels like it has a story.

And of course, Sundays (April–November) bring the Haymarket Farmers Market, the true heartbeat of the community. Some of our favorite regular vendors include Love Bites Company (@lovebitescompany) with natural dog treats - which also means that the market is pet-friendly, Bejeweled Era offering permanent jewelry and more, Jimmy’s Hatch Pepper Salsa (@jimmyshatchpeppersalsa) with bold salsa flavors, and Marshamello Desserts (@marshamellodesserts) for handcrafted sweets, including amazing homemade marshmallows in varying flavors and refreshing lemonade in the summer. Haymarket has been a gathering place since its founding, and the market keeps that spirit alive today.

Where to Eat and Drink in Haymarket

Start your morning at Hidden Julles Café, a cozy spot known for fresh pastries, bold coffee, and smoothies that taste like vacation in a glass. The stuffed French toast, Mediterranean avocado toast, or a power-packed smoothie are all highly recommended. Their lunch menu—sandwiches, salads, and grain bowls—makes it a perfect mid-day stop (and since Peace and Laughter is in the same square, it makes sense to do both!). Also, if you want to check out our Hidden Julles reel in Instagram (along with the fabulous Meghan Bogue), you can check in out HERE.

For a sweet pick-me-up, Cupcake Heaven of Haymarket is just across the street, and it delivers with its famous cupcakes (don’t miss the Butterbeer cupcake - just trust us as Megan swears by it!), plus seasonal lattes that rotate throughout the year. When dinner time rolls around, Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant is the local go-to. With homemade pastas, fresh seafood, and dishes like the lemony Chicken Francese (Shelby’s favorite), it’s a staple for date nights, family gatherings, and everything in between. Pair your meal with a glass of wine on their covered patio for the perfect evening. For bold flavors and about a two mile drive from Haymarket’s center, Tacos & Tequila hits the spot with street-style tacos, trio dippers, loaded nachos (get the short rib!), and colorful margaritas. The vibrant murals by local artist Meghan Bogue of Wholeheart Murals (@wholeheartmurals) make the dining experience as much about atmosphere as flavor.

What to Do in Haymarket

The Haymarket Museum, housed in an 1883 schoolhouse, is a meaningful stop where you can learn about Civil War history, see original artifacts, and even enjoy rotating exhibits of local artwork. When we visited, we had the museum to ourselves, which made the experience both quiet and memorable. If you’re craving fresh air, James S. Long Regional Park is just minutes away, offering trails, sports fields, picnic areas, and even a late-summer sunflower patch. It’s ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unwind outdoors. Sometimes the best way to enjoy Haymarket is the simplest—boutique browsing and porch sitting. With a coffee in hand, stroll along Washington Street, chat with shop owners, and embrace the small-town friendliness that makes Haymarket so special.

Haymarket Day 2025

Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10 AM–4 PM. Haymarket Day is the town’s signature annual festival, drawing over 15,000 visitors each year. The event begins with a lively parade at 10 AM, followed by 200+ vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Regular vendors include A Pup’s Valley, Haymarket’s award-winning dog boarding, daycare and grooming and spa services, alongside other pet vendors like Miss Kibbles, plus local artisans, jewelers, and crafters. Food trucks serve up everything from barbecue to international eats, making it a foodie’s dream. Parking is available at Tyler Elementary School and the Healthcote Blvd Park & Ride, with free shuttles running all day.

Haymarket Day has been voted Readers’ Best Annual Event by Haymarket Lifestyle Magazine five years in a row!! This special day is truly the ultimate way to experience the town’s community spirit.

Haymarket is a town that doesn’t rely on flashy attractions—it shines with authenticity. From sipping coffee on a sunny porch to wandering the farmers market, every moment feels personal and memorable. But if you really want to see Haymarket at its best, don’t miss Haymarket Day 2025 on October 18th. Bring friends, family, and even your pup—you’ll leave with a full heart, a happy belly, and maybe a few treasures to take home.

🍁 Falling into Traditions That Last: Northern Virginia and DMV Fall Happenings

There’s something magical about autumn in the DMV — crisp air, golden leaves, pumpkin spice everywhere, and the chance to slow down a bit with family and friends. Megan here, fresh off planning some fall activities, and Shelby can’t wait to get outside with her camera again. It’s tough to be a photographer who can’t use a shoulder — but no worries, physical therapy is going well, and she’ll be back at it soon. Whether you’re new to the area or you’ve lived here forever, fall gives us an excuse to explore, connect, and build memories. And of course our favorite part, is capturing all of the joy and sharing it with you!

Below we’ve pulled together a curated list of some of the best fall events in Prince William, Loudoun, Fairfax, and beyond — family-friendly, festive, and full of tradition.

🍂 Nothing says fall like diving into a giant pile of leaves! 🍁
📸: Shelby Leigh Photography, LLC

These are some of our favorites for this season (late September through mid-November). We’ve grouped them so you can pick what fits your vibe or schedule. And trust us, this is a short list! Wherever you are in the DMV, take some time to scout out what activities work best for you and your family!

🌾 Outdoor & Farm-Style Fun

• Great Country Farms Fall Pumpkin Harvest (Loudoun area)
  A staple for folks who love pumpkin patches, cider donuts, hayrides, and picking pumpkins. (Dates: full October, likely through end of the month; check local site for exact calendar.)

• Leesburg Animal Park — Pumpkin Village Fall Fest (Loudoun County)
  Opens September 20, 2025, through November 4. Preview weekend September 13-14. Attractions include giant hill slides, moon bounces, wagon rides, a corn bin, pedal carts, lots of animal encounters (petting, feeding), pony rides, weekend entertainment, seasonal food, and more.

• Cox Farms Fall Festival (Centreville / Fairfax County)
  Runs September 20 – November 9, 2025, open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in September & October, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in November. Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays. Their Fall Festival includes hayrides, the “Cornundrum” cornfield maze, giant slides, goat village, huge pumpkins, rope swings, toddlers’ play zones, live music, and much more. Big hit for families.

🎉 Festivals & Community Events

• Reston Multicultural Festival (Reston, Fairfax County) — celebrate the many cultures that make up our community with food, performances, kids’ activities. (September 20)

• Bluemont Fair — art, crafts, jams, music in Bluemont; lovely chance to wander, shop local, eat good food. (September 20-21)

• Leesburg Air Show — aerial performances, static tarmac displays, kids activities, food and fun. (September 27)

• Vienna Oktoberfest (Vienna, Fairfax County) — music, food, and festive atmosphere. (October 4)

• City of Fairfax Fall Festival — crafts, kids’ play, everything to make an easy afternoon of fall fun. (October 11)

• Manassas Fall Jubilee (Prince William County) — heritage crafts, food, music, community feel. (October 5)

• Haymarket Day 2025 — a lovely hometown city-wide street festival, complete with parade, performances, live music, delicious food and fun. (October 18)
  (we’d totally be remiss not to mention this one, as we love the small “Stars Hollow” vibe of our town!)

🍷 Arts, Wine, & Evening Events

• Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour at Mount Vernon — beautiful backdrop, good for couples who enjoy a relaxed evening with views and wine. This one may sell out, so get your tickets early if you plan to go. (October 10-12)

• Mount Vernon Fall Harvest Festival — bring the kids! Seasonal foods, crafts, tours of gardens, beautiful foliage to enjoy. (October 18-19)

• Waterford Fair — arts and crafts fair, picturesque setting (historic village). (October 3-5)

🎨 Arts & Crafts / Markets

• Heritage Harvest Festival at Loudoun Heritage Museum — offers a blend of history, harvest, and artisanal crafts. (September 27)

• Fall Festival + Artisan Market at Fairfax Corner — shop local artisans, seasonal food, family-friendly environment. (October 18)

• Occoquan Fall Arts & Crafts Show — browsing vendors, nice walk, food options, good for a laid-back weekend. (September 27-28)

👍 Why Fall Events Make Great Tradition

Shelby here: there’s more to fall than pumpkins and leaves. These events are how traditions begin — the moments when kids’ faces light up on the hayride, the smell of cider donuts, that chill in the air just before sunset. They’re simple, but rich. Visiting the same farm, walking through the same fair every year, learning new things about your county — it builds roots.

Megan adds: for us photographers, fall is also one of the most magical seasons for lighting, color, and capturing warmth. Getting out to these events is a way to slow time, to see familiar places in new light. And for your family or friend group, these can become “the thing we do every fall.” Something to to look forward to.

🔎 Know…Before You Go

• Always check event websites or social media beforehand — times, ticketing, or even schedule shifts can change. And as much as we hate to admit it, once in a while, we may get it wrong, too! We try hard to get it right, but better safe than sorry as we don’t want to be responsible for a date mistake!

• Dress in layers. Fall mornings are crisp, afternoons warm, and evenings chilly.

• Bring cash or small bills if there are artisan vendors or food trucks — sometimes payment options are limited.

• Weekdays or preview weekends can be less busy, more relaxing if you want a calmer experience.

🌟 Which Event Should You Pick First?

If you’ve only got one weekend, here are two we think are must-does:

1. Great Country Farms Fall Pumpkin Harvest (Loudoun area)
   A staple for folks who love pumpkin patches, cider donuts, hayrides, and picking pumpkins. (Dates: full October, likely through end of the month; check local site for exact calendar.)

2. Pumpkin Village at Leesburg Animal Park — great mix of animals + classic fall fun + photo-friendly settings.

3. Bealeton Hot Air Balloon Festival — mostly because we wanted to make sure you are paying attention to ALLLL of the activities offered…and, it’s on our bucket list!

Let us know what you end up doing! If you go, share your photos. If you have an event we didn’t list but love, we’d love to hear about it.

Creating Family Traditions Through Travel: Why Vacations Matter More Than Ever

This summer, Shutter and Compass packed our bags for one of our biggest adventures yet. Megan and Shelby, along with their families—six teenagers and two husbands in tow—headed to Florida to experience the brand-new Epic Universe Theme Park at Universal Orlando, plus time at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and all four Walt Disney World parks.

To say it was EPIC just doesn’t do it justice.

Yes, it was a work trip (we’re already preparing guides and tips for Epic Universe!), but it was also a chance to slow down, laugh until our cheeks hurt, and make lasting memories with our families—especially with our oldest teens now 19. How many 19 year-olds do you know who willfully spend quality vacation time with the family still?!! We soaked in every moment.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this: travel isn’t just about where you go, it’s about who you go with and the traditions you create along the way.

Why Travel Traditions Matter

For Megan’s family, Disney has been a thread woven into their story. Living close to Disneyland meant multiple visits over the years—park days filled with churros, fireworks, and watching her kids grow from toddlers on Dumbo to teens conquering Space Mountain. Those shared trips became a family tradition, one that has created lasting bonds.

Shelby’s family story looks a little different, but the heart is the same. After falling in love with all things Disney—Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and even Disney Cruises—her family decided to join the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) in 2019.

What is Disney Vacation Club (DVC)?

Think of DVC as Disney’s version of a timeshare—but much more flexible. Members purchase points that can be used for stays at DVC resorts, Disney’s deluxe hotels, or even adventures around the globe through Disney’s travel partners. It’s a way to guarantee future vacations while giving families the freedom to decide when and where to travel. For Shelby, DVC was an investment in tradition—ensuring that Disney magic can be passed down to her kids for years to come.

And here’s the truth: it’s never too early to start traveling with your kids.

Shelby’s first Disney trip with her children included a five-year-old and a one-year-old. Did the one-year-old remember it? No. But the family sure does. The sparkle in his eyes, the way he lit up at the sights and sounds—all of those tiny magical moments are etched into the family’s hearts. That’s the beauty of travel: sometimes the memories belong more to the parents, but they still shape the family’s story.

Big Vacations Aren’t the Only Vacations

We’ll be the first to admit—we love the big, splashy theme park trips. But you don’t have to go cross-country or across the world to create unforgettable family traditions. Some of the best vacations are the ones that become simple, annual getaways:

✨ A long weekend at the beach. Whether it’s the Outer Banks, Myrtle Beach, or a hidden coastal gem, families return year after year to sandy toes, seashell hunts, and sunset walks.

✨ A mountain retreat. Renting a cozy cabin in the Blue Ridge or Smoky Mountains can be just as magical. Hiking, roasting marshmallows, and sitting by the fire—those moments stick.

✨ An annual road trip. Pick a destination within driving distance (a favorite small town, a local amusement park, or a state park) and make it a yearly tradition. The drive itself often becomes part of the fun!

The destination doesn’t matter as much as the commitment to go. What your kids will remember is the laughter, the games, the food stops, and the shared adventures.

Travel Shapes Families—and Kids’ Futures

As our audience continues to get to know us, you’ll see that for both Megan and Shelby, travel is about so much more than vacations. Travel opens minds, sparks curiosity, and creates connections—to new places, new cultures, and most importantly, to each other.

When families prioritize travel—whether it’s Disney or a quick beach weekend—they’re investing in something bigger than a trip. They’re teaching their kids that it’s okay to pause the chaos of life, step into something different, and create memories that last far beyond the vacation itself.

Shutter and Compass

Magic Kingdom 2025

The Bekkedahl’s (minus 1)

and

The Whites (plus 1)

Also, Photo Credit goes to the photographers at Disney!
We highly recommend the Photo Pass/Memory Maker.

Did you know you can get a discount if you’re military?
More information HERE

Final Thoughts

Our trip to Orlando this summer was unforgettable—Epic Universe, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Disney’s Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios all gave us moments we’ll never forget. But what made it truly magical was sharing it with our families.

So here’s our encouragement to you: start your own travel traditions. They don’t have to be big or expensive. They just need to be yours.

Because when the kids are grown, and the photos are tucked away in albums, you’ll realize those vacations weren’t just trips. They were the heartbeat of your family story.
Also, if you’re wondering what all the fuss is over EPIC (and Universal and Disney, if you haven’t been)…we got you covered! We’ll be deep diving into our trip with fun anecdotes, tips, and so much more!!

✈️ National Cheap Flight Day: The Real Tea (and How to Score Your Next Adventure on the Cheap)

Hey fellow wanderlusters, Megan & Shelby here 👋 — your friendly neighborhood globe-trotters, camera-clickers, and unofficial cheerleaders for any excuse to pack a bag.

Today we’re talking about National Cheap Flight Day (yes, that’s a thing), whether it’s real, and our favorite sneaky tricks to help you nab your next getaway for less — so you can spend more on the important stuff (you know…gelato, museum tickets, and questionable roadside souvenirs).

🗓 What Even Is National Cheap Flight Day?

Mark your travel calendars — every year on August 23rd, the internet goes wild over “National Cheap Flight Day.” It’s not like airlines have confetti cannons and half-off flash sales ready to go (although…airlines, if you’re reading this, we’d be into it).

Instead, it’s more like the unofficial start of the “shoulder season” — that magical time between sweaty, crowded peak summer and pumpkin-spiced everything. Airlines know demand dips, so they sometimes drop fares to fill seats.

💡 Key takeaway: It’s not a one-day miracle, but it is a great moment to start stalking flights for fall and winter trips.

🕵️‍♀️ Do Airlines Get Sneaky if You’re Looking?

We’ve all been there: you search for a flight once, and suddenly it’s $40 more the next time you check. Cue the “Are they WATCHING me?!” paranoia.

Here’s the deal — most experts say it’s less about airlines tracking you and more about algorithms reacting to demand and inventory. But some travelers swear by using incognito mode, clearing cookies, or even checking prices from a different device.

Do we do it? Oh yeah. Do we also feel like secret agents when we do? Absolutely.

🪄 Our Favorite Cheap Flight Tricks (National Cheap Flight Day or Any Day)

1. Set up fare alerts
We love Google Flights and Skyscanner for pinging us when prices drop. It’s like having a little travel fairy whisper, “Book now!”

2. Flex those dates
Flying midweek (Tues/Wed/Sat) can save big bucks — plus airports are less “Hunger Games” chaotic.

3. Try nearby airports
A quick train or shuttle can save hundreds. Bonus: more scenery to photograph.

4. The 24-hour rule
If you find a great fare, book it, then keep an eye out for a better price within 24 hours (most airlines let you cancel for free in that window).

5. Be ready to pounce
The best deals don’t last long. If your gut says “Yes,” listen to it. (Your gut knows things.)

🤔 Should You Book Today or Wait?

• If you see a dreamy deal today: Book it. Then go celebrate with a glass of something bubbly.

• If you’re planning fall travel: This is prime booking season. Waiting too long can mean higher fares.

• If your trip is next spring/summer: Put flight alerts on now and aim to book 1–4 months ahead for domestic, 3–6 months for international.

📸 Final Boarding Call

National Cheap Flight Day isn’t magic, but it is the perfect excuse to start trip dreaming (and scheming). Whether you book today or next week, the goal’s the same: get out there, see the world, and fill your camera roll with the kind of moments that make you smile for years.

And hey, if you find a ridiculously cheap ticket to somewhere fabulous — we’re free. Just saying. 😉

Happy travels & happy clicking,
Megan & Shelby

She Goes Anyway: Join Us for the First Annual Shutter & Compass Group Trip to Sandals Montego Bay

We’re doing something BIG — and we want you there with us.

Shutter and Compass is thrilled to announce our First Annual Group Trip — and this one’s for the books. We’re heading to the stunning Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica, May 2026, for a sun-soaked, soul-filling experience that blends luxury, purpose, and unforgettable connection.

While you’re welcome to extend your stay on either side of the trip, the official group dates are April 30–May 7, 2026— and trust us, you’ll want to be there for every second.

Why Montego Bay? Why Now?

Photography: Kristen Alfred
Travel with Kristen

Because she goes anyway.
Whether she’s juggling a million tasks, feeling overdue for joy, or unsure of what comes next — she chooses the adventure, the escape, the connection. That’s what this trip is about. A chance to say yes to yourself while making a difference in the lives of others.

This trip is more than beautiful beaches and butler service (although, yes, there will be that — it’s Sandals after all). It’s about joining with like-minded women — travel lovers, dreamers, givers, storytellers — to celebrate everything Shutter and Compass stands for.

And we’re not going alone.

We’ve teamed up with the incredible Kristen Faye Alfred of @travel.with.kristen, a Sandals and Beaches travel advisor who knows these resorts inside and out. Kristen invited us to be part of something special — and you’re invited too.

Here’s What Makes This Trip Extra Meaningful

✨ The Jill Stewart 5K

This optional charity 5K is a highlight of Sandals Foundation’s philanthropic calendar. Named in honor of a beloved Sandals Resorts team member who lost her battle with breast cancer, the Jill Stewart 5K brings together Sandals guests, staff, and locals for a walk/run benefiting the Sandals Foundation’s work in health, education, and community development. You can run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines — all in the spirit of giving back.

📚 Reading Road Trip

Another optional excursion with big impact: the Reading Road Trip gives guests a chance to visit local schools and spend meaningful time reading with children in nearby communities. It’s a beautiful way to connect with Jamaica beyond the resort and to share your love of storytelling and learning.

Let’s also add: this part of our trip is something we are both looking SO FORWARD to! In an upcoming Shutter and Compass podcast episode, you’ll hear more, but let’s just say this combines Shelby’s long time desire to do mission work with travel to help those in need. While this is obviously not a “mission” trip, we are very excited to connect with the local community and share love in a meaningful way, while having the option to go back to the resort for our food and comforts we are accustomed to. We promise a funny story goes with this, so be sure to stay connected for more background!!

✏️ School Supplies Drive

Shutter and Compass will be bringing much-needed school supplies for the children of Montego Bay and surrounding areas — and we need your help! Whether you join the trip or support from home, we’re accepting donations of:

• Notebooks

• Crayons, markers & pencils

• Backpacks

• Art supplies

• Flash cards & learning tools

Or you can contribute to our fundraising goal to help us purchase in bulk and transport supplies directly. Stay tuned for our upcoming donation drive — and if you're a teacher, mom, or office supply enthusiast, start setting things aside now!

What’s Included with a Sandals Group Stay?

Sandals resorts are all-inclusive — and we mean ALL inclusive:

✅ Unlimited gourmet dining at multiple restaurants
✅ Premium drinks (yes, even top-shelf cocktails 🍹)
✅ Beautiful beachfront accommodations
✅ Watersports, snorkeling, and SCUBA for certified divers
✅ Entertainment, themed nights & live music
✅ Airport transfers and all tips/taxes
✅ Group perks like room upgrades, spa discounts, and exclusive group activities (based on group size)

And for our Shutter and Compass group? We’ll also have:

🦩 Welcome meet-up & farewell dinner
🦩 Curated excursions and photo ops
🦩 Optional sessions on content creation & travel planning
🦩 And yes… time to just be — in a hammock, by the pool, with your favorite book or podcast (don’t forget your sun hat and packing cubes — you know we’ve got you covered in our blog shop 😉).

Let’s Travel With Purpose — Together

This is our first-ever Shutter and Compass Group Trip — and we couldn’t be more excited to partner with Kristen, celebrate service and sisterhood, and build a travel community that gives back.

Come solo (well, Sandals books rooms for two, so this may be the best time to invite someone along, even your husband!).
Or, bring your sister. Grab your best friend. We’re sure you’re overdue to hang out, are we right?!!

Just don’t wait too long — rooms are limited and this will sell out.

To join us, inquire today through Instagram @travel.with.kristen or drop us a DM at @shutterandcompass.
We’ll make sure you get all the details and pricing options based on your room type and length of stay.

We can’t wait to see you in Jamaica.
Because wherever she goes — she goes anyway.

P.S. Want to support the school supplies drive or sponsor a suitcase of donations? Stay tuned — we’ll be sharing all the details soon, including Amazon wish lists, collection events, and how to help even if you’re not traveling with us this time.

Affordable Adventures: Travel Tips That Won’t Break the Bank

Let’s bust a myth right away: You don’t have to be rich (or retired) to travel well. With a little intention and some strategic planning, you can enjoy incredible adventures without draining your savings account. From cash back tools to credit card perks to point strategies, here’s how we make travel work for our budget — and how you can too. We’re breaking down the practical and the lesser-known ways to save, plus real-life examples from our own trips.

1. Points Are Your Passport: Make Your Spending Work for You

One of the easiest ways to make travel more affordable is to earn points or miles on the money you already spend. Two of our favorite cards for this are the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the American Express Platinum.

• Capital One Venture offers 2x miles on every purchase. The real win? You can erase travel purchases using points, or transfer them to airline and hotel partners.

• Amex Platinum is ideal if you fly often and value perks like Centurion Lounge access, airline credits, hotel upgrades, and 5x points on flights booked through Amex Travel.

Real-Life Example: We booked round-trip flights to San Juan, Puerto Rico using American Express points, covering over $500 in airfare with points alone. I can’t remember exact flights at the moment, but I know we’ve used points for free airfare before we even started Shutter and Compass. So, If you aren’t using those credit cards in this way…here’s your sign to start. NOW!

Tip: Keep an eye on sign-up bonuses. These often range from 60,000–100,000 points when you meet minimum spending requirements — enough to cover one or two round-trip tickets!

2. Rakuten = Free Money for Travel

We try to use Rakuten every time we shop online. We’re getting better, but you can see that we have a long way to go to fully maximize it — but, we still believe every little bit helps! Rakuten is a cash back platform that gives you money back just for clicking through their site to see if where your shopping is a partner, before you buy from stores like Sephora, Walmart, or even travel sites like Expedia and Booking.com.

If you haven’t tried it yet, here’s our referral link to get started and score a welcome bonus:
👉 Rakuten Referral Link

Insider Tip: Link your Amex or Visa card to earn in-store cashback at places like Ulta and Walgreens, and if we just realized it works for Giant, too! So…all those groceries…Dominion Valley and Haymarket people, I’m talking to you…go ahead and link it for those points!

RAKUTEN POINTS

It’s not a ton, but honestly, we’re still excited we’re getting paid for literally our regular shopping trips.

If you haven’t tried it yet, here’s our referral link to get started and score a welcome bonus:
👉 Rakuten Referral Link

How we use it: When we started our Rakuten account in November, 2024, we earned 4,000 points just to start, and then we quickly added points, without even realizing it! From our regular purchases (some even in-store!) at Adidas, Giant (again - how cool!), Shutterfly, Madison Reed (because…hello, we’re in our 40’s) and legit, I JUST saw that my TACO BUENO purchases in Oklahoma earned me points…all because my American Express is linked. Like really, why would one NOT do this?! while you can convert the points to dollars, we actually send them right over to American Express to keep as points for our travel. I know that there’s a mathematical or better way to figure out what works best, but this is what we’re choosing for now. While I know I still need to thank her, I know I’ve read a lot of my travel credit card information from Jen Woodhouse - https://jenwoodhouse.com/category/travel/ - I’ve known Jen for somewhere around a decade, and she’s the real deal. Excited to hopefully connect soon (once she’s in the country for a hot minute from all of her travels) so we can learn more from her! But we highly recommend checking her site out — she is incredibly knowledgeable. Like really — not just in travel. She does it ALL!

3. Stack the Savings: Cashback + Points + Coupons

Combine these methods for serious savings:

• Use Rakuten (or a similar browser extension like Honey or Capital One Shopping).

• Book with a rewards credit card.

• Search for discount codes or use hotel loyalty programs (e.g., Hilton Honors).

Pro Tip: Book your hotel through Rakuten, use your Amex to pay, and make sure it’s a property you can earn hotel points on. That’s a triple win.

4. Fly Smart: Timing is Everything

• Fly midweek. Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have the best fares.

• Set fare alerts with tools like Google Flights or Hopper.

• Travel off-season or during shoulder seasons (e.g., late April or early October).

You can score $49 one-way fares on Southwest just by flying on a Wednesday in October — peak weather, low prices.

5. JGOOT: Just Get Out of Town

We’re just diving into JGOOT (Just Get Out of Town) — a subscription-based platform that teaches you how to use points and find mistake fares. So far, we’re impressed by how it encourages thinking differently about travel. Definitely legit, and depending on your needs, they can walk you through an amazing process for making your travel not only more affordable, and also getting you into those business class and luxury flights!

JGOOT teaches:

• How to book flights with fewer points by transferring to partners.

• How to find deals where points are valued 2-4x more than booking directly.

We haven’t booked a full trip using it yet, but we’ll report back when we do! It’s worth checking out if you want to level-up your points game.
https://www.jgoot.com

6. Look Local First

Adventure doesn’t always require a passport.

• Check your state’s tourism board for discounts and deals.

• Plan a short road trip to a nearby vineyard, historic town, or hiking trail.

• Search Airbnb Experiences or Groupon for things to do within 2 hours of home.

Some of our favorite days have been 45 minutes from our doorstep. If you’re in Northern Virginia, this is your healthy reminder that you are likely within an hour or two from our Nation’s Capital, Washington DC. There is always so much to see and do there. And what we’ve noticed is that a lot of people who have lived here the longest, STILL haven’t been to our Nation’s Capital. Y’all are missing out! BUT, no fear. If the DC traffic and city life are either intimidating or just aren’t your thing, there are so many beautiful wineries, breweries, restaurants, hiking trails, and so much more close by.

7. Use Travel Communities for Deals and Ideas

Facebook groups, Reddit threads (like r/travelhacks), and even TikTok are full of travelers sharing real-time deals, itineraries, and budget tips. Join the conversation, ask questions, and share what’s worked for you. And as always, hop on over to https://www.facebook.com/groups/shutterandcompass to share your thoughts and questions, or even share about your latest travels and awesome finds.

8. Create a "Travel Fund" Jar (Seriously)

Yes, we love points. But nothing beats cash.

• Start with $10/week.

• Add every time you skip a takeout meal or cancel a subscription you’re not using. Also, if you haven’t canceled those subscriptions you aren’t using…go do that!! You may be shocked by how much you’re not even realizing you’re spending. >>>ask us how we know<<<

We’ve funded everything from cruise excursions to a new carry-on just with what we stock l away over a few months.

You Can Afford to Go

Whether it's a luxe cruise booked with miles, or a weekend Airbnb funded by cashback and a travel jar, there are so many ways to make adventure more accessible.Start where you are. Use what you have. Learn a few new tricks along the way. And remember, a good hike, a free museum…those are still in our travel realm! Enjoy what you can, when you can. And remember: it doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. Just go and make the memories. You’ll thank yourself (and us!) when you realize how much you love it.

XO,

P.S. We’re working on a future post specifically about how to maximize credit card points like a pro — so stay tuned! Let us know what questions you have so we can get some guest speakers lined up and so we can share more with you!

Disclosures: We may earn a small commission when you use our affiliate links, including Amazon and Rakuten. This comes at no cost to you and helps support future content for Shutter and Compass. Thank you for your support!

She Goes Anyway: Why Women Deserve the World (and How to Start Exploring It Now)

There’s a little spark in many of us — a moment when we hear the name of a faraway place, or scroll past a breathtaking view and think, "I want to go there." But for women, especially those who wear multiple hats — mom, partner, caregiver, professional — that spark can quickly be buried under the weight of responsibility or fear.

I’ve felt it too. As a mom and small business owner, the idea of leaving my daily responsibilities behind for a week (or even a weekend) felt selfish at times. But here’s what I’ve learned: travel isn’t an escape — it’s a homecoming. A return to the you that existed before the to-do lists, the diaper changes, or the late-night conference calls. And that woman deserves to be seen, heard, and inspired by the world around her.

Whether you’re a young mom with toddlers, an empty nester rediscovering your freedom, or someone who has always dreamt of going somewhere — this is your nudge.

1. Why Women Don’t Travel — And Why We Should

Let’s start by naming it: fear. Fear of traveling alone, of something going wrong, of leaving our families, of spending money on ourselves. Sound familiar?

According to a 2023 study by Condé Nast Traveler, 72% of women express an interest in solo travel, but far fewer actually go. Time, safety concerns, and guilt are the main culprits. But here’s the thing — travel doesn't have to mean disappearing for weeks in Bali. It can be a weekend road trip to a nearby winery, a solo cruise, or a girls’ getaway.

Travel builds confidence. Research published by the Journal of Travel Research found that travel improves emotional well-being and cognitive flexibility. Translation? It helps you breathe deeper, problem-solve better, and reconnect with your sense of self.

2. You Don’t Have to Go Alone (But You Can)

One of the most powerful travel moments I’ve ever experienced was standing on a quiet beach in St. Lucia, just me and the waves. I wasn’t lonely — I was full. Full of gratitude, clarity, and peace.

That said, traveling with others can be magical too. Virgin Voyages, for example, is a favorite of mine for women in all stages of life — especially moms who want a no-kids getaway. (Check out our blog post on their restaurants here). Whether it’s a best friend, sister, or travel group, finding your people can ease the fear and double the fun.

3. Travel Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

One of the biggest myths is that travel is only for the wealthy or retired. Not true. With smart planning, even international travel can be accessible. A few tips to start:

• Travel in shoulder seasons. Prices drop significantly just before or after peak travel times.

• Use travel rewards credit cards. (We love this one to track points and perks — affiliate link.)

• Set fare alerts. Google Flights and Hopper are great for this.

• Cruise! It sounds counterintuitive, but cruises can be cheaper than many land-based trips, especially with meals and entertainment included.

We’ll share a more detailed “How to Travel for Less” guide in our next blog post — stay tuned.

4. For Moms, Empty Nesters, and Every Woman in Between

If you're a mom: traveling sets an example. Our kids watch us. When they see us value our joy, our friendships, our sense of curiosity — they learn to do the same. Whether it's a weekend with girlfriends or a family trip that includes a moment just for you, every mile matters.

If your kids are grown: this is your moment. You've given so much to others — now it's time to re-meet yourself. What better way than with a passport in hand?

If you’ve never traveled much: it’s never too late. Start small, start smart, but start. Join a group trip, pick a destination close to home, or follow a favorite travel blogger (like us!) for tips and ideas.

5. Practical Ways to Begin

• Start a travel fund. $10 a week adds up fast — and you deserve it.

• Make a vision board. Seeing your dream destinations daily can fuel your motivation.

• Join travel communities. Facebook groups, Instagram pages, and local meetups are great ways to connect with like-minded women. Of course, we are fans and encourage you to join us at www.facebook.com/shutterandcompass or at our group page, here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/shutterandcompass

• Pack smart. You don’t need 12 outfits — you need 3 that mix and match. We have found these packing cubes for keeping things organized - we were skeptical, but have grown to see true utility in them!

She Goes Anyway

You don’t need permission to see the world. You don’t need the perfect time, a fancy wardrobe, or a travel partner. You just need a spark — and a little courage to fan the flame.

So here’s your sign. Take the trip. Book the ticket. Or at the very least, start dreaming louder.

And when you do, we’d love to hear about it. Share your story with us at @shutterandcompass on Instagram, or tag us in your travel photos. Let’s build a movement of women who go — and grow — together.

Until next time, keep exploring.

xo,

P.S. Don’t miss next week’s post: “Affordable Adventures: Travel Tips That Won’t Break the Bank”

Ready for Takeoff: Summer Travel Essentials That Will Save Your Sanity (and Your Style)

At Shutter and Compass, we’re all about encouraging adventure—and doing it smart. Whether you’re jetting off to sun-drenched beaches or hopping between charming cities, being proactive about what you pack makes all the difference between smooth sailing and stressful surprises. And trust us... we've learned that the hard way.

When Preparation Pays Off

Take Shelby’s recent flight from Atlanta to Washington, for example. Her suitcase never made it onto the plane. (We know. Sigh.) But thanks to an Apple AirTag tucked inside her checked bag, she could pinpoint its location and work with the airline without the usual guesswork or panic.

Lesson learned: Don’t leave for the airport without one.
Also, if you fly Frontier, know what everyone else on the plane already knew … be safe, and just use a carry-on. There was a reason why only Shelby was left looking for her luggage - only about 10 people seemed to need to pick up baggage. And apparently theirs weren’t lost.

Our Favorite Summer Travel Finds

We’re not just about the destinations—we’re about the gear that gets you there in style, comfort, and sanity. Here are our favorite travel companions this season:

☀️ The Folding Sun Hat

This chic, packable sun visor is a favorite for both Shelby and Megan. It folds flat, fits in your tote, and gives major coastal-grandmother-meets-stylish-globetrotter vibes. Bonus: it keeps you protected from UV rays and bad hat hair.

🎒 Compression Packing Cubes

These rose gold packing cubes (Shelby’s favorite color, of course!) keep your outfits organized, your suitcase neat, and your sanity intact—especially when you're living out of a carry-on. Not gonna lie, we weren’t 100% sold on the idea of the cubes - seems like just another step to add in packing - but honestly, it did help us keep a little more organized overall. A little extra planning, but worth having them. Plus, did we mention…ROSE GOLD!

💊 Travel Pill Organizer

Don’t play the guessing game with loose vitamins or allergy meds. This 14-grid pill case even includes labels for easy organizing—and it fits right in your carry-on. We’ve been traveling a lot lately. Some fun, some less fun, but trust us when we say — if you’re one who needs daily medication/vitamins/just extra Tylenol to have on hand…is pill case is so helpful. When we went to Key West and Bimini last February with Virgin Voyages, it would have been so helpful to have a few extra over the counter medications on hand. Between a few members of our group having stomach issues (all not related to each other, thankfully), and having to find and use a vending machine (for medication - who knew that was such a thing) and of course a bout of just motion sickness from nausea, it’d have been nice to have some extras. Also, bonus tip. If you are reliant on daily mediations — ALWAYS pack extra. We’ve seen it too many times where travelers pack exactly the amount they need, and wind up having some type of issue, and wishing they had a few extra on hand for unexpected delays.

🔋 Portable Charger (with built-in cords!)

No more frantic airport outlet searches. This compact charger plugs into the wall and has built-in cables so you’re always ready to recharge on the go. Of all of our favorite finds, so far, this one has to be the most purchased and well used!! Numerous friends and followers have connected to tell us how great these are! And, we’ve purchased one of each member of BOTH of our families!! We always have one or two on hand, and have gotten so much use out of these.

✈️ Pressure Relief Ear Plugs

Say goodbye to mid-flight ear pain with these FlyFit earplugs. They’re reusable, hypoallergenic, and a must-have for frequent flyers. Megan is a wealth of knowledge, and these are something she has used in the past with great success, and now that Shelby knows about them, she’ll keep them on hand for flights as well. Especially for her son! He has some eardrum issues, and this just seems to be handy to have - just in case.

💄 Clear TSA Toiletry Bags

These clear, TSA-approved toiletry bags keep your liquids leak-free and airport-friendly. No more digging through your bag at security. While we haven’t been surprised by anything recently with our travels as far as TSA is concerned, it never hurts to be in full compliance, and let’s be honest - anything to get us through those lines quicker is a huge bonus. Have we mentioned the joy of TSA PreCheck and CLEAR?! Be on the lookout for that post! The point though is, we are fans, and with our traveling, the TSA approved bag going through ANY line is a plus!

🧼 Hanging Toiletry Bag

Speaking of toiletries, we love this hanging organizer for small hotel bathrooms or cruise cabin sinks. It keeps everything up, organized, and spill-free. One of our biggest peeves is being unorganized. Both in life and during travels. Again, we like to streamline everything, and organizing in small cruise line bathrooms can be a challenge. This organizer has the space and the compartments to make your bathroom tidy. We also love that it comes in … baby pink! Not quite rose gold, but Shelby still approves.

🛂 Passport Cover & Wallet

Keep your ID, cards, and passport in one stylish place with this RFID-blocking wallet. Ideal for those who prefer both style and security. Rose Gold. If it’s shiny and in the right color, and FUNCTIONAL…with an added level of protection for your information, Shelby is all over it. Consolidating all of your necessities into this slim, stylish passport holder and card protector just makes sense to us, especially if you do a lot of international travel… OR if you still don’t have your REAL ID. Do you have yours? Long story short, Shelby doesn’t, but she travels with her Passport and Military ID, just to be safe.

💍 Jewelry Roll

No more tangled necklaces! This foldable jewelry case is sleek, soft pink, and perfect for packing just enough sparkle. Untangling jewelry is a pain! And we enjoy having the ability to be a lil’ fancy with our jewelry, so this case keeps us well accessorized!!

🌿 Bonus Find: Yellow Leaf Hammocks

Want to bring summer vibes home? We love the entire Yellow Leaf Hammock collection—ethical, handmade, and perfect for backyard lounging after your latest getaway. If you’ve traveled on a Virgin Voyages Cruise, you know what we are talking about!!! We LOVE Virgin Voyages balconies and hammocks…and while we don’t own this particular find, we were excited to find that you could in fact purchase this! How cool! Would you buy one?!

Proactive Packing = Peace of Mind

Let’s be honest—travel always has something that doesn’t go according to plan. But having the right tools in your bag (literally) can help you stay calm, cool, and collected.

So, before you take off this summer, take a few minutes to prep like a pro. Your future self—and your travel photos—will thank you.

✈️ Where are you headed this summer?

We’d love to hear your travel plans—and if you need help narrowing down your must-pack items, just shoot us a message or explore our Amazon Favorites! We are always striving to add and update as we find helpful items we love (or if we hear you love them!).

How to Cruise to the South Caribbean Stress Free

Sailing the South Caribbean with Virgin Voyages: Packing Tips, Pro Tips, and Unforgettable Moments

If you’ve ever dreamed of an adults-only cruise where luxury meets laid-back vibes, Virgin Voyages is calling your name. We—Shelby and Megan—recently set sail on an adventure through the stunning South Caribbean, with stops in Barbados, St. Lucia, Tortola, St. Maarten, Antigua, and a departure from Puerto Rico. December was the perfect time to cruise—warm breezes, turquoise waters, and just the right amount of holiday spirit on board.

So, grab a cocktail, kick back, and let us take you through our trip, plus some handy pro tips and packing must-haves to make your Virgin Voyages experience seamless!

Packing Tips: Essentials You Won’t Want to Forget

Let’s talk about packing smart. Virgin Voyages cruises are all about effortless style and comfort, so packing light (but right) is the way to go. Here are some must-haves:

• Packing Cubes – Keep your suitcase organized and easily find your outfits for every occasion. Check out our favorite set here: https://amzn.to/4jK3Vy6

• Sun Hat – The Caribbean sun doesn’t mess around. A stylish, packable sun hat is a lifesaver for beach days. We love this one – it was so easy to fold in our travel bags, yet still super accessible: https://amzn.to/3Q5qRdp

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Whether you have health issues that require medication or if you just like to be well-prepared for any illness scenario, we love this Travel Pill Organizer! https://amzn.to/3QbRXj2

• Waterproof Phone Case – Perfect for those catamaran rides and snorkeling trips. https://amzn.to/4gptPEq

• Comfortable Sandals – You’ll be doing plenty of exploring, so comfy and stylish sandals are a must.

• Portable Chargers – These are a MUST during travels! Ours came in handy numerous times (shocker – we took a lot of pictures, videos, notes and all things for this content!) https://amzn.to/40Mre1o

• Swimwear & Cover-Ups – Pack a few so you’re always ready for a spontaneous beach stop or a dip in the ship’s pool.

• Casual Chic Outfits – No need for formalwear, but having some trendy yet comfy outfits will keep you feeling great for dinner and entertainment onboard.

• Sea Sickness Bands or Ginger Chews – Just in case those waves get a little too friendly.

Pro Tips for Sailing with Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is all about breaking the mold of traditional cruising. Here’s what we learned to make the most of the experience:

• Download the Virgin Voyages App ASAP – This is your lifeline for booking restaurants, excursions, and activities. Popular spots fill up fast!

• No Buffets Here! – Unlike traditional cruises, you won’t find massive buffet lines. Instead, The Galley offers a trendy food hall experience with everything from ramen to fresh-made salads.

• Late-Night Eats Are a Thing – Craving a burger at midnight? The 24-hour diner has you covered.

• Take Advantage of the Included Fitness Classes – Whether it’s sunrise yoga or a high-energy HIIT workout, the ship’s fitness options are next level.

• Don’t Skip Scarlet Night – Pack something red and get ready for a night of fun, dancing, and surprises.

• Book Spa Time on a Port Day – You’ll get a better deal, and the ship is quieter while most passengers are off exploring.

Our Favorite South Caribbean Moments

Tortola to Jost Van Dyke: A Slice of Paradise

One of our favorite days was hopping on a catamaran from Tortola to Jost Van Dyke. The ride itself was breathtaking—crystal-clear waters, salty breezes, and an instant feeling of relaxation. Our main destination? Ivan’s Stress Free Bar.

Let’s just say, the name says it all. Picture yourself sipping on a Painkiller cocktail, toes in the sand, reggae music floating through the air, and zero worries in sight. If you’re looking for an authentic Caribbean beach bar experience, this is it.

Barbados: Shipwrecks & Stingrays

We set out on an excursion with Tranquility Cruises in search of sea turtles. While the turtles were a bit camera-shy that day, we still had an unforgettable underwater adventure. We swam alongside stingrays, schools of vibrant fish, and even explored a shipwreck! The clear, warm waters of Barbados made every second feel magical.

Antigua: Local Charm & Stunning Beaches

The glorious infinity pool view from Sheer Rocks, at Ffryes Beach in Antigua. The weather, the view, and those turquoise waters don’t get any better than this!

Antigua quickly became one of our favorite stops, thanks to our incredible taxi driver and impromptu tour guide, Chocky. He took us on a cultural tour of the island, stopping at local shopping spots and scenic viewpoints before dropping us off at Little Ffryes Beach, a perfect slice of paradise. We also made time to visit Sheer Rocks at Ffryes Beach, where we sipped cocktails and enjoyed the most spectacular ocean views from their cliffside lounge. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Antigua!

St. Maarten: Thrills & Chills

St. Maarten was all about beachside relaxation and adrenaline-pumping adventure. Watching planes land at Maho Beach was a wild experience—where else can you be sunbathing while jumbo jets fly just overhead? But the real rush came from zip lining at the world’s steepest zip line, The Flying Dutchman at Rainforest Adventures, an absolute must-do for thrill seekers!

Why Virgin Voyages is a Game-Changer for Adults

If you’re looking for a cruise that feels elevated yet fun, Virgin Voyages is a winner. From the modern, boutique-hotel vibe of the cabins to the incredible dining options (all included—no upcharges here!), this is the perfect cruise line for adults who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.

The best part? No screaming kids, no rigid schedules—just pure, unfiltered vacation bliss.

So, if you’re thinking about your next getaway, let Virgin Voyages take you on an unforgettable journey. And if you need a few essentials to make your trip even better, don’t forget to check out our packing recommendations above!

Stay tuned! Throughout February, we’ll be adding more detailed posts about our specific cruise experiences. But that’s not all—we’ll also be sharing tips on how to best enjoy travel and all things Virgin Voyages. You won’t want to miss it!

Until next time—cheers to adventure, exploration, and stress-free travel!

Wander More, Worry Less: Travel Through Our Lens

Hi there, and welcome to your new favorite travel blog! We’re Megan and Shelby, best friends, photographers, and travel enthusiasts on a mission to inspire women in their 30s and 40s (or really, any stage of life!) to embrace the transformative power of travel. Together, we’ve combined our love for photography, exploration, and storytelling to create Shutter and Compass — a place where wanderlust meets creativity.

Why Shutter and Compass?

We get it. This phase of life is a whirlwind. Between juggling careers, family, and personal aspirations, it’s easy to feel like adventure should take a backseat. But here’s the thing: now is the perfect time to prioritize yourself, explore new horizons, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Through our blog, podcast, and vlog, we’re here to:

• Share practical travel tips tailored for women just like you.

• Teach you how to document your travels beautifully, even if you’re not a professional photographer.

• Inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and experience the world with intention and confidence.

What You’ll Find Here

1. Travel Tips for Women in Their 30s and 40s
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime international adventure, we’ve got you covered with destination guides, packing tips, and advice to make every trip unforgettable.

2. Photography Hacks to Capture Every Moment
You don’t need a fancy camera to create stunning photos. From smartphone photography tips to creative ways to document your memories, we’ll help you bring your travel stories to life.

3. Honest Conversations About Life and Travel
Through our podcast, we’ll dive deep into what it means to travel intelligently in this stage of life. We’ll tackle topics like overcoming fear, balancing responsibilities, and finding joy in the journey.

4. Practical Resources for Smart, Stylish Travel
From travel-friendly apps and gear recommendations to tips for staying safe and saving money, we’ll make sure you’re ready for any adventure. Check out our first Virgin Voyages post with some of our favorite picks, found here:
https://shutterandcompass.com/how-to-cruise-to-the-south-caribbean-stress-free/

Our Promise to You

At Shutter and Compass, we believe that every woman deserves to see the world, capture its beauty, and create stories worth sharing. We’re not just about inspiring wanderlust; we’re here to equip you with the tools and confidence you need to explore intelligently and intentionally.

So, whether you’re dreaming of solo travel, planning a girls’ trip, or simply looking for ways to reconnect with yourself through adventure, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Join Us on This Journey

Ready to embrace travel, capture beautiful memories, and make this stage of life your most adventurous yet? Follow along with us here on the blog, subscribe to our Podcast (wherever you listen to podcasts!), and check out our latest travel vlogs on YouTube. 

Let’s create and capture a life full of stories you’ll never forget.

Here’s to your next adventure!