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Summer has been amazing, but Fall is right around the corner. Are you ready for Autumn, but not ready to put up your summer wardrobe? Here are some simple ways to bring your favorite summer pieces into Fall:     Layer, Layer, Layer Once temps start to drop and weather is cooler in the mornings, the key is to layer, layer, layer!!! So you can shed them if it gets toasty in the afternoon, or add more layers the colder it gets.  Denim Jacket Ol' tried and true, blue jean jacket is one the main essentials for taking your summer clothes into Autumn. Just add this guy to any summer dress, and BAM! You're ready for Fall!     Chambray Shirt If you don't want to go full-on denim, you layer a chambray shirt over a tank or t-shirt. Same concept-different feel...   Mock Neck Tank A new twist on an old classic! By adding a mock neck tank to your thin-strapped dress or jumpsuit allows you to layer with a denim jacket on those chilly mornings while beating the afternoon heat.          Up Your Shoe Game Just by switching your sandals for booties or boots will instantly take your favorite summer dress into Autumn. The booties gives the outfit an uplift, where boots give off a more polished look. Check out our sale on both booties and boots here.       And To Top It All Off... While a hat looks great anytime of the year, Autumn is the time to shine for felt hats! Simply by putting on this effortless accessory will bring your summer attire right into those Fall days!   Be sure to check out our End of the Season Sale here  for 20% off all our clearance items!           

You have checked out our social media and website, but who are these beautiful faces that model our clothes? We will be doing a "Meet Our Models" series, so you can get to know our beautiful ladies and love them as much as we do!  In honor of the school year kicking off, we would like for you to meet Willa Holt! If you have scrolled through our Instagram or perused our little girl section of the website, then you have seen this sweet girl's face. Willa is a nine-year-old, fourth-grader at Rabun County Elementary School. She is the daughter of Justin Holt and Cassie Bradshaw, and Kim's niece!! Willa has been the CFB little girl model since we starting carrying the line a year ago. When she's not modeling for us or going to school, she takes dance classes for ballet, jazz, and tap. She has always had an eye for fashion and shows off her creative side by designing her own outfits for her Barbies. She's funny and sassy, and we always have a blast whenever she stops into the store. Willa has been an absolute joy to work with, and we all hope she has a wonderful school year!    Willa's stats  Height: 4'6" Weight: 62 lbs.  Clothes size: Medium  Shoe size: 3

So you took the plunge, bought that investment piece, and YOU LOVE IT! But now what? Remember how your mom said, "If you take care of it, it will last you forever?" Well... she was right... again!  How do you take care of this amazing piece? Well CFB has got you covered.... Here are some aftercare tips for you, so you can keep your new, kick-ass product looking good!    Gigi Pip Hats   Gigi Pip really outdid themselves with the quality of their hats and how to care for them. If you are like me, and gingerly place your hat in the backseat only for your kids to sit on it or chunk it back with no regards to how much you care for that hat.... then like me, you need some help with re-shaping and just general overall care your prized possession- please click here to check out their aftercare blog and any answers to questions you may have.   Bags Both of our leather bag companies (Day & Mood and Latico) have been pre-conditioned and sealed, which gives it that buttery-soft feel but also allows water to bead off a little easier than raw leather. You can combine olive oil and white vinegar in spray bottle, shake, mist over leather bag, and wipe clean with a dry cloth.  I found a lot of helpful tips on how to care for your leather bag on this website.    Sheila Fajl Jewelry  Sheila Fajl jewelry is designed to make you feel beautiful and make your inner beauty glow, but she makes her jewelry easy to care for as well. All you have to do is gently polish your jewelry with a jewelry polishing cloth as needed. That's it! Easy peasy! And you can find a polishing cloth at any jewelry counter.... but here's a link to one at the Walmart. 

As the summer heats up, so do our appetites! But if you're like me, you don't want to spend all day in a hot kitchen... So the staff at Cage-free is here to help make your summer cooking an easy task with these fun, simple recipes!                  

Continuing on Fourth of July's pride in country and community, we are proud to announce our Local Lady Icon for this month is Rabun Martin. Talk about pride in the community? This sweet lady was named after this beautiful county, where she summered with her grandparents until officially moving here when she was nine. Rabun graduated with a degree in interior design from the University of Georgia. Over the last two decades, she has cultivated her interior design business, her retail store, and art studio into a thriving, successful enterprise. (Her girls and friends showing Rabun's art in front of Lulu & Tully's)   Her store, Lulu & Tully's, is located at 11 North Main Street and is filled with unique treasures, rare finds, and unconventional conversation starters. (I promise you won't leave there empty handed!) At the back of the store is Mercantile Studio, where she offers painting classes as well as craft classes such as floral design, soap and candle making classes, pottery, knitting, and jewelry making to name a few.  (Here are just a few of the exciting things that Rabun has at Lulu & Tully's)   When she's not running multiple ventures, she has her hands full with her four children with her husband, Ashley... not counting the numerous kids they have taken in from Rabun Gap Nacoochee School to board with them. [Note: (front left of the pic below) you may recognize the sassy brunette as our Brooksie from CFB- She's Rabun's daughter! : ) ] Also, in Rabun's "spare time," she fills in as a Zumba instructor (I took her class one time... and died. Her energy is unmatched!)    Rabun expresses her artistic creativity through interior design and as an impressionistic painter. She has been published in local and international publications. Her design style is one of intention and performance as she incorporates her patron's everyday life into the home to nurture the feelings of  "familiarity, comfort and beauty." Her approach to painting is similar as she draws upon landscapes near her home in Rabun Gap, using Acrylic on wood.  ​“My paintings are impressionistic and simplistic.  My process is messy as is evident in my studio. Paint is everywhere.  My approach is to create layers of color and texture that give the viewer a place to let their eyes wander and explore all over the painting, discovering uniqueness in every nook.  I use acrylic paints applied with a palette knife, water bottles and my fingers. Mistakes are embraced and lead to unforeseen beauty. I use wooden boards my husband makes for me in our family’s furniture factory.  The wood holds up to the extreme layers of wet and dry paint much better than canvas. It suits my messiness much better!” ​   So after seeing all the many hats this unbelievably awesome woman wears, it's no wonder that we chose her for our Local Lady Icon! So show her some love and check out her art at rabunmartinart.com, or stop by Lulu & Tully's to see all the amazing things she keeps stocked!   

  There are so many fun things to do in Clayton (and surrounding areas) that we had to make another post just to include everything! So if you're coming into town for the weekend, or have lived here your whole life but never been a tourist in your own town, now is the time to explore Rabun County and see what there's to offer in this quaint little town.  (Click on the business title to check out their website)   Dillard Stables   From city-slicker to the advanced equestrian, Dillard Stables has the trail ride for you! You can choose from riding with a group for thirty minutes to an hour and half through different scenery, or you can opt for the private-led tour... or the parent-led tour where your child rides and you pull the horse along. The well-maintained trails offer breath-taking scenic overlooks, lush forests, and majestic waterfalls along the Little Tennessee River. The experienced trail guides ensure a safe and enjoyable ride for the whole family... not matter their skill level.  Definitely an adventure no matter your age!   Farmers' Markets Clayton offers two Farmers' Markets on Saturdays.    The Clayton Farmers' Market is located in front of the Northeast Georgia Food Bank and open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  The market has fresh vegetables and eggs, artisan breads, sweet honey, local herbs and plants, bright flowers, and handmade soaps, oils, salves and candles. Also, they host classes from the local farmers where you can learn how to make fried rice or build your own "Little Fairy Garden."   The Community Market of Rabun County is held at the pavilions behind the Civic Center and offer produce, baked goods, honey, beauty products, crafts and fine art, and a thrifting section- like a flea market and a farmer's market had a baby. They are open on Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and sometimes, there's live music.  Check out both of these incredible markets for fresh produce, herbal remedies, unique finds and fun time for all ages!    Whitewater Rafting    Southeastern Expeditions will take you a wild adventure on "the Crown Jewel of the Southeast," the Chattooga River.Whether you are a first-time rafter or a ledge-dropping, expert paddler, the Chattooga provides miles of Class II to Class V whitewater rapids, surrounded by the beauty and excitement of the Sumter and Chattooga National Forests. To raft this roaring, whitewater river is definitely a thrilling change from your normal vacation activities with astonishing scenery and experienced, fun guides to show you the way and keep you safe.   Tallulah Falls  Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep, and one of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S. The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center exhibits the rich history of this Victorian resort town as well as the rugged terrain and fragile environment of the area. You can watch an award-winning film about a journey through the gorge with footage of rock climbers and kayakers. Guests can hike the rim trails to several overlooks, or they can pick up a permit to hike the gorge floor. The suspension bridge dangles 80 feet above the rocky bottom, imparting awe-inspiring views of the river and waterfalls. There's a paved path on the old railroad bed (perfect for strollers and bikers), while pro mountain bikers can check their expertise on the demanding 10 mile trail. Back at the Interpretative Center, the gift shop offers snacks, jewelry, toys, books, walking sticks and more. A whole day of activities for everyone in your group!   Shenanigans Looking for a rainy day alternative? Here's an option that everyone will like: Daddo's Shenanigans! They have 3 golf simulators as well as an indoor shooting simulator where you can shoot at targets on a single screen or be set up in a different scenarios on 3 wrap-around screens. There are several pool tables, too! And a food truck outside to curb your appetite while enjoying all the activities. Several entertaining options for all ages... But for the adults, they have a full bar, a cigar lounge, and nine coin-operated machines. Fun for all on a rainy day, or anytime really... Check them out!    Tiger Drive-In     Since the new generations have never experienced a "Drive In," and older generations miss the nostalgia of their youth, the Tiger Drive-In has bridged the gap to provide a remarkable place to "make the memories you simply can't find anymore." Watch movies up on the big screen from your car like the "old days," but with the benefit of their high-quality digital projection and access to the audio through your car radio. No radio? They have outdoor speakers, too! There are grass terraces to park on and a concession stand for snacks. You can even bring your pets, and there's a playground for the kids. So take a trip back in time and make some new memories at the Drive-In!    With so many things to do in our little town and  the pandemic winding down, it's time to get out and enjoy life again! Go check out these places and make your summer a memorable one!   

Summer is in full swing, and CFB is getting in new things all the time! We have SO many amazing products we sell, but we have asked our staff what their favorite thing in the store is and why they love it. (Click on the title to instantly shop)   Kut's Elenora Drawcord Short in Camo   I LOVE these camo "butter" shorts! (We at CFB call them "butter" shorts because they feel like "butter.")  I have Neve had a good relationship with shorts because of my big thighs, but these shorts fit so comfortably and don't ride up!  I wear them at least three times a week!                                                              -Amelia Clark   Latico's Lillanne Crossbody Tote   I'm obsessed with Latico's Lillianne Crossbody Tote! Not only is it the prettiest bag EVER, but it has so much storage space. It's a beautiful, rich brown with a woven design on the front. I even debated putting this bag up as my favorite because I would love to be able to keep it for myself, but anything for the Boss Ladies!                         -Brooksie Tate Martin    S'edge Double Gauze Set   I love everything about the S'edge collection, and I instantly fell in love with the cotton gauze material. I always try to keep comfort in my style, and that's exactly what S'edge offers. I definitely gravitate towards the neutral tone in my style as well, so I especially love our new double-gauze, wide-leg pant set (Coco Top and Cate Full Crop Pant), which comes in black, white, khaki, and navy. You can mix and match these sets, and you can dress them up or down!                                                                      -Rissa McDonald  Kut Jeans   I absolutely love these jeans! They are super comfortable because of the spadex material that they are made with which means you can size down! We have so many styles which are great for any occasion!                                                                            -Gracie Tucker   S'edge's Nora Dress A great little black dress that you can dress up or dress down! Machine washable and you can put it in the dryer. Best part- it does not wrinkle! Great for traveling and a night out on the town!                                                    - Linda DeHart   Blowfish Sandals These sandals are super cute and comfortable. We have different styles in the Blowfish brand in ladies and little girl sizes. I have had my sandals for few years and still look great. I think my next pair will be one of our slip-on canvas styles.                                                   - Janet Holt   Day & Mood and Latico Bags I am a self-professed "bag lady," and the two lines we carry are SUPER lines. The leather (and sometimes suede) are top quality. The designs are impeccable and so well thought out. The totes can accommodate all your carrying needs. Keep a good wallet, or wristlet, in your tote. You can leave the tote in your vehicle and take the essentials with you on errands.  A woman can never have too many bags! (or shoes!) Also, we have a delicious brown messenger bag that is suitable for men!                                    -Lori Woosley   Musse & Cloud Leila slides I positively adore these slides!! They are real leather, are cushioned with clouds by the angels themselves, and go with everything! Normally, I don't like slides... until I tried these on for a photoshoot, and now, I own three pairs! Best purchase ever!                                                     -Melynda Hensley   BouCou Jewelry I love the BouCou jewelry line! I love the fact that each piece is hand-made in small batches out of Atlanta. This ensures that each piece is original and no one else will have one just like it, and they are great conversation starters because everyone will want to know where you got it. Also, I'm very big in supporting local business women, and this is just one of the companies we carry that is women-led.                                          -Kimberly Ramey

As we plan out our vacations for the summer, don't forget to pack a book for those down moments like laying in sun or lounging in a hammock. We asked our staff about their favorite books and why they love them.  The Hate U Give  by Angie Thomas   I liked this book because it gave me a different perspective on police brutality and what people of color have to face on a daily basis when it comes to discrimination and hate against them just because of the color of their skin.                                                                               -Gracie Tucker     Bastard Out of Carolina by Dorothy Allison   A beautifully-written tragedy about betrayal, abuse, and abandonment in the South. For me, it puts life in perspective- that everything isn't sunshine and rainbows. Life is hard, and sometimes the hand we are dealt is crap. It made me very grateful to not have grown up in that kind of environment, but also, opened my eyes that we are not all raised the same.                                                                     -Melynda Hensley    Looking for Alaska by John Green I began reading John Green about 4 years ago, and I have never been disappointed with his books. John Green is such a skillful, attentive, and detailed writer, and each of his works have a meaningful and significant theme. Green's book, Looking for Alaska, is by far my favorite of his books, and I found the most significance and application out of it's story. As a young adult writer, John Green incorporates the themes of hope, death, finding one's self worth and independence in this book, which are all themes I find personal importance in. I have read this book a total of 3 times, and will probably read it again soon... there is always something I miss, and discover something new every time I read it!                                                                                                                                                 -Rissa McDonald       Dutch Girl: Audrey Hepburn and World War II by Robert Matzen   Most of us remember Audrey Hepburn as an iconic actress. This book is an account of her life during WWII and the long-term effects the war had on her life. These were extremely difficult times: surviving the Nazis; battles; and starvation. This is the side of Audrey she kept private, but it gives the reader a better understanding of Audrey, the person.                                                                               -Lori Woosley    The Song of Achille's by Madeline Miller   The Song of Achilles is a steamy romance between the Greek hero, Achilles, and his campanion, Patroclus. The style of writing is lovely and will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. If you enjoy a good heartbreak story, and the romance trope soulmates who don't end up together, this book is for you!!                                                                                                -Brooksie Martin   And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie   A murder mystery novel in which 10 characters are forced to revisit and reconcile with the horrors of their pasts after their mysterious host spills their darkest secret to the nine other strangers they are stuck on the island with. This book is one of my favorite reads because it be likened to  a maze; the author provides endless clues and makes you believe you have solve case, but as soon as the expected resolution presents itself, there is a dead end to your theory and another path is presented. Not only is it a true mystery, but is also encourages you to look past a person's physical appearance, or the way they present themselves, as what's underneath can be entirely different and far more complicated- the true meaning behind the phase: "Don't judge a book by its cover."                                                                                       -Amelia Clark      Becoming Mrs. Lewis: The Improbable Love Story of Joy Davidman and C.S. Lewis by Patti Callahan It's a beautiful story about love and life. It's captivating and based on the true story about how C.S. Lewis met his wife and how they became friends and fell in love.                                                                   -Marissa Norton    The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes The book was written about five women who took on the task of delivering library books to families in the mountains of Kentucky. I enjoyed following their struggles and victories which in the end brought an entire community together.                                                                 -Linda DeHart   The Water Keeper  by Charles Martin      This is a story about a man who lives alone on an island with secrets but deals with the horrible effects of human trafficking with a depth of love that few people ever know.                                                                                                       -Janet Holt     Claire by Liz Sower   Pulled from my favorite podcast, "Ghosts in the Burbs,"  Claire is a paranormal murder mystery that will leave you wanting more. Who doesn't love that?                                                            -Kimberly Ramey    I don't know about you, but I'm super excited to check out these new titles and authors. Bring on the summer because I'm ready to catch up on my reading!  

Father's Day is right around the corner on Sunday, June 20th. Although Cage-Free is a predominately a women's store, we have a few things for Dad too... and for the mom who fills both parental roles.  [click on the product's name to buy directly] For Dad   ( No Sew Buttons ) For the professional dad on the go, he may not have time to sew a button on the fly, but these no-sew buttons will work in a pinch and be a perfect gift for him.    ( Starlight Star Bright LED string lights )  These string lights may look a lil girly, but as an avid camper, I know these are perfect to string up in a tent or over your hammock. Believe me, your father will thank you for your insight.    ( Lazy Llama Planter ) Save the drama for your mama, and get your dad a llama... planter. A cute planter to remind Pops that you gotta llama love for him.    ( Amy Ballcap ) These ball caps may be called Amy, but they can uni-sex and versatile. For the dad that wants the traditional, plain ball cap but with a touch of taste with the leather adjustable band, this hat is the one for him!    ( Spring St. Messenger Bag ) If you really wanna go all out on Dad this year, this American-made, leather messenger bag is the way to go. It can fit his laptop and paperwork while maintaining a his bad ass style.    Help Pops take the edge off with some CBD. We have an array of choices for CBD from coffee and soaps to gummies and vapes, but you have to purchase in store.  For Mom Pulling Double Duty ( Gift Card ) Get Mom a Cage-Free Boutique gift card so she can get exactly what she wants, and she's gonna love it!!  : )