photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

I can't tell you how excited I was to take a field trip to the Hedley & Bennett headquarters and get a closer look into the most amazing apron (and now homewares!) line in all of the land. Ellen Bennett, the founder and designer, is not only one of the hardest working people I know, but she's one of the coolest too. Ellen is a truly kind and positive person who seems to always be having fun (while dominating the world, of course). It's plain to see exactly why she went straight to the top in just two short years. A former line cook, Ellen created her aprons with no design background - just instinct and her experience in the kitchen. Looks like her instinct is spot-on. Not only are her aprons gorgeous, they are the real deal and built to last -- worn by top chefs across the country. Every Hedley & Bennett product is handmade in Los Angeles using top-grade materials such as American canvas, raw Japanese selvage denim and European linens.

In addition to her aprons and chef coats, she recently expanded her adorable kids' apron line and added homewares -- including napkins, pot holders and chef caps.

Sis and I, along with our favorite photographer -- Jenna Elliott, took a tour of the H&B headquarters and saw just how fantastic apron making with Hedley & Bennett really is.

A warm welcome into the headquarters.

Is it just me, or do these aprons totally excite and inspire you? I would actually like to wear them as outfits.

Stacks of gorgeous aprons with her signature "&" logo on the pocket.

You can get caught up on Hedley & Bennett's story right here on the wall.

I could hang in this light-filled room all day. Hope you don't mind if I do, Ellen!

Bright and cheery from her Spring 2015 collection.

Prettiest wall.

Ellen's inspiring mantra.

Love these napkins, recently added to the collection.

I couldn't wait to jump right in and start trying aprons on. I am already a proud owner of several H&B aprons but "Red Rover" was calling my name!

The matching pot holder is perfect.

Sis loved hers too!

The perfect ending to the perfect apron afternoon. Thanks for the push and the tour Ellen! We are proud to be members of the #ApronSquad! xx

After having Blue Apron recommended to me by several friends, I decided to give it a whirl. I think it's a great idea -- having fresh food, already measured and accompanied by a recipe, delivered to your door each week. I had three meals-worth delivered but was only able to cook two. The two dishes that I made each took about 45 minutes to make and tasted good. The part that I liked the best was that they inspired me and gave me ideas for future cooking at home. I actually used the roasted veggie/kale salad idea (from my second meal) when cooking for a dinner party a week later. My one gripe -- They don't offer an organic option. Other than that, I think Blue Apron is a great way to learn and inspire new home-cooked dishes. I enjoyed it!