Our Trip to Squire's Castle Featuring Fashion from Agnes & Dora by Bethany Minyard #Partner

***Disclosure: I received complimentary samples to facilitate my post. All opinions, thoughts, and experiences are 100% honest and have not been influenced in any way.***

Recently, we decided that every week, we're going to take the kids somewhere new, educational, and exciting. One of the challenges of homeschooling is making sure that the kids get out enough, and that they also have plenty of chance to socialize. Going on Field Trips, either as a family or with friends' kids, too, is a wonderful way to cover all of our bases. 

Last week, we went somewhere super cool. We went to a real CASTLE. Didn't know we have actual castles here in Ohio? Well, we do, and King James doesn't live in any of them!

The one we went to, Squire's Castle, is located outside of Cleveland, and is part of the Metroparks. There's a picnic area, trails, and yes, a castle. Pretty awesome, right? 

I have to admit, while we chose Squire's Castle because it would be an educational experience, teaching about both architecture and Ohio's history, I also had some ulterior motives.....

​You see, we recently received some gorgeous clothing from Agnes & Dora by my friend, Bethany Minyard, and I wanted to make sure our photo shoot was extra special. What better place than a castle! 

I chose to wear my oh-so-chic Agnes & Dora Frill Sleeve Top Potpourri, paired with some distressed denim leggings, one of my "Grandpa cardigans", and boots. Sophie rocked her buttery soft Agnes & Dora kids' leggings. 

Sophie is 7, and she is totally obsessed with what she calls "Soft leggings". You ladies know what I mean....Leggings that literally feel soft and smooth like buttah. Yeah. THOSE kinds of leggings. Well, with Agnes & Dora, softness and comfort is what you get. 

Anyway, we had a great time exploring both nature and Squire's Castle with my family. I wasn't worried about ruining my clothes, as Agnes & Dora's garments are well-made and easy to care for. 

My top, which is a comfortable 23'' long, offers a crewneck and  double layer flounce sleeves, and it's also slightly fitted. It is incredibly soft against the skin, as it's made from a  95% Rayon and 5% Spandex blend. 
​
To launder, I wash cold and hang dry. Easy, peasy!
​
Oh, did I mention that this cute top is also manufactured in the USA?

Sophie climbed, jumped, ran, and even scooted her behind against rough, stone castle walls and windowsills. I was actually very pleasantly surprised that her Agnes & Dora leggings stood up to the abuse. We've had other leggings tear easily during normal playground play, so I was thrilled that these leggings were a bit better made. 

I got SO many photos, since the castle was absolutely stunning. To check out the scenery and more of our Agnes & Dora style, check out the slideshow below: 

I also received this adorable Agnes & Dora Dolman Tunic in Black. I wore this to our kids' Back to School Picnic, where they got to meet their teachers and other K12 kids face to face. I got a couple of photos, but it was cold and rainy, and we made a quick event of it. 

This top, too, is very soft and comfy, and is incredibly versatile. I love how soft this fabric is, and I also adore the 3/4 sleeve length. I do think the Frill Sleeve Top was more flattering on my body, though. The Dolman is great, but it did hug my "wobbly bits" AKA Mom Belly Pooch just a wee bit.

It didn't look bad, and would probably not be an issue if I had sized up one size. Dan honestly didn't even notice any bumps or bulges, but I like things loose on my lower abs. Not to mention, we're our own worst critics, right? 

Anyway, I absolutely still wear my Agnes & Dora Dolman Tunic. I just pair it with a cardigan or jacket. Problem solved, and I am still comfy! 

I couldn't be more impressed with Agnes & Dora. Not only are their pieces gorgeous, stylish, and high quality, they're also very flattering and come in a wide range of sizes, from XXS through plus sizes. 

Another thing that I love is that with Agnes & Dora, there are constantly new styles being added. There are different garments, different sizes, different colors and prints...It's ever-changing, making Agnes & Dora a great place to keep your wardrobe fresh and fun, no matter the season. Every time I visit Bethany's website, I see something else to add to my Fashion Must Have list. I'm currently drooling over their new cardigans for fall! 

Go check them out! Agnes & Dora has something for every size, every style, and every body. Thank you, Bethany, for introducing me to this fantastic brand! 

Connect with Agnes & Dora by Bethany Minyard :

You can shop directly for the latest styles at  cottoncandyboutique.com. 

You can also join Bethany Minyard's Agnes & Dora FB group for live sales, sneak peeks, etc. (This is the best way to make sure you don't miss anything!)