Gripping the Club Incorrectly:
One of the first things beginners struggle with is the proper grip. A faulty grip can lead to wayward shots and hamper your progress. To fix this, focus on the following:
The V's of your hands should point towards your right shoulder (for right-handed golfers) and should not be too tight or too loose.
Ensure that your grip pressure remains consistent throughout the swing.
Practice gripping the club correctly until it becomes second nature.
We were once told during our lessons to pretend as though a bird is within your grip, and you want to hold it tightly enough for it not to fly away, yet not too tightly so that you crush it.
Overpowering the Swing:
New golfers often try to hit the ball as hard as they can, thinking that more power equals better distance. However, an overpowered swing often leads to poor ball contact and a lack of control. To correct this, concentrate on:
Maintaining a smooth and controlled swing tempo.
Using your body rotation, not just your arms, to generate power.
Focusing on proper balance and weight transfer during the swing.
Ignoring the Fundamentals:
In the excitement of playing, beginners may overlook the importance of fundamental techniques. Proper stance, alignment, and ball position are crucial for consistent shots. To address this, pay attention to:
Your stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly flexed, and spine neutral.
Alignment: Ensure that your feet, hips, and shoulders are parallel to the target line.
Ball position: Adjust the ball's position based on the club you're using.
Neglecting Short Game Practice:
Beginners often spend more time trying to hit the ball far and neglect practicing their short game. However, a significant portion of strokes occurs around the green. Great, effective ways to improve your short game:
Devoting time to chipping, pitching, and putting practice.
Developing touch and feel through different lies and distances.
Mastering basic putting techniques like grip, posture, and eye alignment.
And, in our opinion, the #1 common mistake...
Not Seeking Professional Instruction:
Many beginners try to teach themselves or rely on advice from friends, YouTube videos and Instagram reels. While this may work for some, professional instruction is invaluable for building a solid foundation. Consider:
Taking lessons from a certified golf instructor to learn the right techniques from the start.
Getting personalized feedback and guidance tailored to your skill level and goals.
Seeking ongoing instruction to continuously improve and refine your game.
By recognizing and addressing these common mistakes, beginner golfers can accelerate their individual progress and enjoy a more rewarding golfing experience. Remember, golf is a journey that requires patience and practice. Embrace the learning process, and with time and dedication, you'll be well on your way to mastering the greens -- because when we play better, we have more fun.
Greens & grace xo
]]>Embrace Basics: Make a statement with the fashion-world’s newest term: “Quiet Luxury”.
Quiet luxury refers to a sophisticated and understated elegance that exudes high-quality and refined taste, often characterized by subtle details, fine craftsmanship, and an overall sense of effortless sophistication.
Opt for well-fitted golf apparel that never goes out of style, such as a polo shirt or stylish skort with well-made, breathable fabrics and designs which flatter your body-type. Prior to your visit, be sure to verify the dress code guidelines with the respective golf club you'll be visiting.
Playful Pastels: Soft pastel shades are a perfect choice for a feminine and elegant look. Once you've invested in your first capsule colors like navy, black, white or cream, try light pinks, mint greens, baby blues, or lavender for a touch of sophistication and to easily freshen up basics.
Mix and Match: Experiment with different combinations of tops and bottoms to create unique outfits. Mix solid-colored pieces with patterns or pair complementary colors to add depth to your look. Layers are a great way to add a luxurious look to your outfit, as well as providing varied warmth on days when the weather turns without warning.
Chic Golf Dresses: Embrace the femininity and surprising convenience of golf dresses. Look for ones with breathable fabrics, flattering silhouettes, and tasteful details like pleats or ruffles. Our recommendation is to always purchase a golf dress which includes shorts which will ensure the length and colour will work together.
Sun Protection with Style: Invest in a fashionable wide-brimmed hat or visor to shield your face from the sun while adding a touch of glam to your ensemble. Don't forget to wear sunscreen!
Stylish Layers: For cooler mornings or evenings, layer up with lightweight jackets, cardigans, or vests. Opt for trendy options with unique textures, colors, patterns and detail that allow you to show off your personal style while still being realistically functional. Bonus is you can wear your “golf” wardrobe off the course as well.
Statement Accessories: Elevate your outfit with stylish accessories. Try a cute pair of socks with ruffles or cute saying, a small clutch to hold all of your necessities like your phone, wallet and lip balm, a beautifully well-made golf glove, and shoes.
Luxurious Golf Shoes: Invest in a pair of high-quality golf shoes that are not only comfortable but also stylish. Look for classic designs with a touch of personality like colourful or metallic accents, to make a fashion statement. Adding a pair of “kilties” on to your more sporty-looking shoes will add a sense of vintage luxury to your look without the cost of a brand new pair of shoes.
Confidence is Key: No matter what you wear, the most important accessory is your confidence. Well-fitting clothing and a sense of pride in your look will help you to carry yourself with poise, while enjoying the game with an air of elegance.
Remember, golf fashion should be an expression of your personal style and enhance your enjoyment of the game. By incorporating these tips, you'll be ready to hit the greens in style, feeling your absolute best this Summer!
~ L & T xo
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The Masters is one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world, and it's not just about the golf - it's also a fabulous opportunity to showcase your fashion sense. With the lush greens of Augusta National as your backdrop, you can step up your fashion game and look your best at this high-end event. Whether you're attending the Masters or hosting a themed party, here are some tips to help you dress in style.
Dresses
A flowy and elegant dress is a perfect choice for this occasion. Look for styles that accentuate your figure and make you feel confident. You can't go wrong with a classic and feminine green dress; the ultimate Spring fashion staple.
Layers
While it's important to have a stylish outfit for the Masters or a themed party, it's equally important to have layers available. Spring weather can be unpredictable, with cool mornings and warm afternoons. By layering your outfit, you'll be prepared for any weather changes throughout the day.
Affectionately named after the second hole of the Masters, the Après Golf sweatshirt in pink dogwood, is the perfect layer to wrap around your shoulders for added warmth. Let everyone know that your love of golf extends beyond the course and into the fashion world, incorporating golf-inspired elements into your outfit can make you stand out from the crowd.
By having layers available, you'll be able to enjoy the event without worrying about the weather or feeling uncomfortable in your outfit. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to show off different aspects of your outfit throughout the day.
Accessories
Accessories are a key component to any outfit, and the Masters is no exception. Sunglasses are a must-have accessory to protect your eyes from the sun's glare. A floppy sun hat or straw visor not only makes a statement but also provides protection from the sun.
When it comes to shoes, comfort is key. You don't want to be stuck on your feet all day or attending a festive event in a pair of uncomfortable heels. Look for shoes that are stylish yet practical, like a pair of chic ballet flats or crisp white running shoes with cute added addition of kilties: perfect for adding a touch of nostalgia and stylish touch to your footwear.
A handbag is also a must-have accessory for any event. Opt for a clutch or crossbody bag that is just large enough to fit your essentials like a phone, sunglasses, and lip gloss. Choose a bag that compliments the color and style of your dress.
The Masters is a wonderful opportunity to dress up and look your best. Remember, you're not just dressing for yourself, but for the occasion. With these tips in mind, you'll look and feel confident at any Masters event or themed party, and be the envy of everyone in attendance.
Will you be attending a Masters party, or better yet, experiencing the iconic weekend in person? We'd love to hear about your experience!
~ L & T xx
]]>Golf is a sport with a long and rich history, and one aspect of the game that has remained constant over the years is the dress code. From the early days of golf, players have always been expected to adhere to a dress code that reflects the traditions of the game. While some may argue that the dress code is outdated and unnecessary, there are several reasons why we believe keeping tradition for dress in golf is still relevant today.
Golf's dress code is part of the overall etiquette of the game of golf. It is a sport that values respect, tradition, and sportsmanship and the dress code is a reflection of these longstanding values. By adhering to the dress code, players demonstrate their respect for the game, their fellow players, and the golf course on which they're playing.
While the party golf trend has more recently attracted a new generation of golfers and injected new energy into the sport, it is important to remember that golf can still be social and fun without catering to a "party" golf market. Golf has a rich history and tradition, and for many golfers, the sport is a great way to connect with nature, challenge themselves, and enjoy the company of friends and family.
There are many ways to make golf a social and enjoyable experience without compromising the values and etiquette of the sport with dress. After all, by dressing well, you feel, and often play your best.
Golf is undoubtably a unique sport that is steeped in tradition, and the dress code is one of the many elements that contribute to the overall atmosphere of the game. When players dress in well-mannered, elevated attire, they add to the sense of occasion and create a more enjoyable experience for themselves and their fellow players. Longer lengths, softer details, and feminine touches ~ it's everything we wanted to bring back to the sport.
As two social golfers, we found it difficult to find golf apparel which could check the boxes of flattering, feminine and functional. All we continued to find was loud, boxy, and completely void of what Women really felt great wearing.
We believe in keeping tradition for dress in Women's golf as it may just be more relevant today than simply following the crowd. While some may argue that the dress code is outdated or unnecessary, it is clear that it remains an integral part of the game of golf. Respect for sport, and in the way we carry ourselves.
~T xo
]]>The game of golf is a timeless pastime that has been enjoyed by millions of people around the world, and growing, especially for Women. Not only is golf a great way to relax while enjoying your surroundings, but it can also be a great way to spend quality time with your significant other. Here are five ways golf can be great for strengthening relationships new and old:
Teambuilding
When playing a round of golf with your partner, you’ll have to work together to make the best shot possible. This teambuilding can help you learn more about each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and help foster a stronger bond.
The history of women's golf is a rich and fascinating one, with a legacy that dates back centuries. While the sport of golf has long been associated with men, women have been playing the game for just as long, and have made significant contributions to its growth and evolution.
The earliest recorded instance of a woman playing golf was in 1744, when Mary, Queen of Scots was recorded as playing the game at St. Andrews. However, it wasn't until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that women's golf began to gain widespread popularity.
In 1893, the Ladies' Golf Union (LGU) was founded in the United Kingdom, and in the following year, the first women's amateur golf championship was held. This marked the beginning of organized women's golf, and paved the way for the establishment of other women's golf organizations around the world.
In the United States, the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) was founded in 1950, and has since grown to become one of the most successful and influential women's sports organizations in the world. Today, the LPGA tour boasts more than 2,000 members from all over the globe, and includes some of the most talented and successful female golfers in history.
Despite the many challenges and obstacles that women golfers have faced over the years, the sport has continued to grow and thrive. Today, women's golf is enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels, and has a dedicated and passionate fan base around the world.
As we look to the future, it is clear that the legacy of women's golf will continue to inspire and inspire future generations of golfers to take up the game and make their mark on the sport.
While the evolution of women's golf fashion has brought many exciting and practical advancements to the sport, there are some who feel that the more demure and elegant styles of the past have been left behind in favor of more trendy and casual looks.
As we look to the future of women's golf, we believe it is important to remember and appreciate the rich history and traditions of the game, and to find ways to continue to honor and incorporate these elements into modern golf fashion.
One way to do this is by bringing back a more sophisticated and classic style to the course. This could include elements such as tailored dresses and skirts, elegant blouses and skirts, and classic accessories like pearls and sun hats.
Not only would a return to a more timeless golf wardrobe pay tribute to the history and traditions of the game, but would provide players with a more sophisticated and elegant option for their golf round and life.
As women's golf continues to grow and evolve, it is important to remember and honor the past, while also embracing the future. By finding a balance between the two, we can create a charming and refined future for the sport, while also paying tribute to the incredible legacy of women's golf.
If you're like us, the 19th hole is half of the fun when it comes to your golf game. We may even go as far as naming it the "reason for the season"...
So, when you're missing your Ladies, we're all about re-creating the "19th hole" experience during the off-Season, too.
]]>So when our golf courses close for the Season around November, by January, we are in serious need of some "Golf Girl socializing".
You know the kind; getting caught up on what's been happening in everyone's life, telling them about your new favorite skincare line, recommending your latest recipe and finding out all about Suzie from down the street who met a guy, went South for the Winter and is living the life of her dreams in the sun and on the golf course. You go, girl!
There is no doubt that the Summer is when we get to hang with our Ladies the most - and you know why? Because our tee times are booked and it's in our calendars. It's very rare that we don't make it a priority and can't go.
So instead of continuing to lay low, and count down the days until we're back at our home course and all of our nearest and dearest...in person -- we're planning a monthly "catch up" with our foursome!
If you're like us, the 19th hole is half of the fun when it comes to your golf game. We may even go as far as naming it the "reason for the season"...
So, when you're missing your Ladies, we're all about re-creating the "19th hole" experience during the off-Season, too.
"Happy Hour" just sounds fun, and gives you an excuse to host a few of your friends, without the stress of planning for, and preparing an entire meal. Especially if you're not a master in the kitchen, drinks and appetizers are definitely the way to go. It also keeps your get-together low-pressure and low-commitment for both you and your guests.
STEP 1 {THE MENU}
With any happy hour, you're first going to want to think about everyone's food and drink preferences. Are they into charcuterie boards, chips with guac, or desserts?
If you're having a hard time deciding, try going with a theme! Mexican, French, BBQ, then be sure you pair your stress-free, low to no-cook menu with your favorite Prosecco, wine and/ or beer - or easiest way to go -- a big batch pitcher of a favorite cocktail (or mocktail - and then guests can choose to add alcohol or not).
STEP 2 {THE EVENT}
When your Ladies arrive, have a nice board or appetizer tray already prepared for immediate munching and drinks to offer. We recommend buffet-style so everyone can choose whatever they prefer!
STEP 3 {THE FINALE}
Finish off your appetizers with a nice salad that you've prepared with toppings that can be customized to everyone's preferences like; cheeses, proteins like chicken, tofu or shrimp, and top with fruit and dressings. Better yet, support a local restaurant and serve something you ordered from them!
STEP 4 {UNTIL NEXT TIME}
There's no doubt that there will be plans to schedule a second "19th Hole Happy Hour" before you get back out on the green this Summer.
Promise to choose a date each month until golf starts back up again and book it in everyone's calendar before closing out your Social and have everyone from your foursome rotate through hosting each date!
Before you know it, you'll be back to enjoying everyone's company again outside and on the patio.
P.S. This year we are launching our very own 5 Piece Women's Golf Apparel Collection that's feminine, flattering and functional. It's the trifecta of the greatest women's golf collection of all time - and you're going to want to stay with us so that you too can get in on it :). Sign up for our email list at the bottom of the page and be the first to know when it launches and share it with your #LadiesWhoGolf who are tired of the same drab styles year after year.
L & T xo
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Seems counterproductive, right? Except one of the ways we're choosing to use our platform is to educate.
We're not talking in a dreary, scary way - but more in an inspirational, optimistic way. Ways in which you can use your own personal buying power to make a difference.
So in the spirit of seasonal Deals and Sales coming at you fast and furiously in time for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, here are our tips to being more sustainable with your purchasing {and your wallet}.
1. The #30wears Test
A campaign created by Eco Age, a company that certifies brands in sustainability, wanted to encourage us to only buy something new to wear if we knew we would wear it at least 30 times - And if that sounds like an average number of wears per piece to you, it's not.
The average number of wears each garment actually gets is just 7 times. It is then discarded {or donated - but we'll save this topic for another day}.
2. Buy Second Hand Or Vintage
No matter how "sustainable" we produce or buy a garment - the only way fashion can truly be 100% sustainable is to never buy new again - but it doesn't need to be so extreme. Lauren and I simply made the decision to stop shopping for reasons like a sale or "Black Friday". No more shopping for the sake of it. We do our research and make buying decisions based on need, not only want.
Clothing dedicated to a specific sport or season is going to have a tougher time being worn as much as our regular wardrobes, so here's what we're doing to help you love {and wear!} your Charming Sally Golf Apparel Collection set to launch next Summer 2022!
Buy Better Quality, Less Quantity
This is more of a mindset shift if you haven't shopped with high quality as the priority previously - however, when clothing is so cheap, someone ultimately pays the price. We are true believers of buying better, more eco-friendly pieces that truly reflect our personal style and values. This is how we become more sustainable with our wardrobes - to love the clothes we wear...for the longest time possible.
Y'know what's not going to be in style in another year? The "it" color right now: FUSHCIA. Or the the "it" texture: FLEECE. It's a hard no from us, y'all.
How about you? Does sustainability influence your shopping habits? Let us know!
L & T
]]>So if you're curious about the game or are interested in learning to play golf once and for all, then the "Winter" season could just be the best time to learn!
Hear us out.
It's cold, dark, and not a heck of a lot else is going on in the northern part of the world. But just like doing the work behind the scenes and transforming ourselves for when it counts, is the same concept we're eager to tell you about here!
So, if you're not a golfer yet, take note - these tips to get you out, and staying on the green have worked for us, and we're sure can work for you!
JOIN A {BEGINNER} GOLF LESSON GROUP
Getting you started on the right foot is going to make all the difference for your confidence and skill. So when it comes to golf being so technical, lessons are where we recommend starting.
Lessons are definitely an investment. Being able to jump into a group lesson format though, offers a discount, as well as a less intimidating environment than 1:1 instruction.
Bonus: you get the opportunity to meet other like-minded folks in your community to share your newfound skill and built-in buddies to golf with outside of your lessons!
If local to Windsor, ON, be sure to sign up to be added to our email list! This is where you'll be notified of our upcoming Golf Lessons {All Levels} coming this Winter and Spring 2022. This past Summer our clinics sold out in just 2 days. Get on the list!
PRACTICE YOUR SWING
Lessons are great, but what truly makes us a "golfer" is to...golf.
Many people would say that an indoor golf simulator experience isn't quite like the real deal, but what it can provide that an outdoor experience can't is; data and feedback. Not to mention great weather no matter when!
Data and feedback are great because it allows for you to understand where changes in your swing are making a difference. Paired with instruction, it's putting you in the best position to be ready and confident for your next outdoor golf season.
#FINDYOURFOURSOME
In the words of motivational speaker Jim Rohn; "You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with."
It's no surprise that those whom succeed have a group of others just like them cheering them on.
Finding your "tribe" of golf pals can make or break your commitment to golf. Lauren and I have been playing with the same golf foursome for 3 years - we all started as complete beginners. Playing golf each week is a commitment we make to them, and to ourselves: to catch up, golf and of course, enjoy a glass of wine {or more} at the 19th hole {aka the patio}.
Learning and continuing to play this sport can offer so much more than simply a weekly outing. Golf has gifted us lifelong friendship, connection to ourselves, to a thriving community and the enjoyment of simply being in nature.
Leave us a comment and tell us your thoughts!
T xo
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Do you have any tips on what helps you be successful in golf?
]]>One of the reasons I love golf so much is that it’s a game you can play for a lifetime. Kids can play and you can play as a family, and you can continue playing until well into your golden years. It’s also never too late to start. My Grandmother didn’t start playing until she was in her 50’s and has continued to play until her late 80’s.
I’m writing this post in hopes that it helps even one person feel more confident when stepping onto a golf course early on in their relationship with golf.
I’ll touch on two of the (arguably) most important things to remember in order to make you feel confident on the course. *SPOILER ALERT* – they have nothing to do with how good of a golfer you are.
1.) Have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously
If you’re like most people, you’re playing the game for some fun socializing, and *bonus* you’re getting some exercise (which might not even counteract the drinks if you’re having a couple cold ones on the course – but hey, it’s something). Of course, everyone wants to play well, but this game is a rollercoaster ride. Even the pros go through slums where their games are not very good. So, don’t beat yourself up. Keep things light. There is nothing worse than playing golf with someone who is constantly getting upset and frustrated the whole time. You can do it occasionally (we all do) but if you keep it up it will not make you do any better and it will bring the vibe of your whole group down. So, laugh it off and just keep trying.
2.) Pace of Play – Keep Moving
This is the rule that was instilled in me from a very young age. I can still hear my Dad in my ear every time I’m on the course “you’ve gotta keep moving. Get your club ready”. At the golf club we belonged to you would get a warning letter if you didn’t keep up. I’m sure it would have just been devastating for my Dad to receive one of those, so he made sure to drill it in. It’s not meant to make you feel like you have to rush (though it sometimes does), but if you start holding up people who are behind you, then huge backups occur and everyone is behind.
Golf courses set up tee times for each group (maximum 4 golfers). The tee times are set up 7 to 15 minutes apart. Generally, it takes about 2 hours to play 9 holes, or 4 hours to play 18 holes. Golfers really appreciate pace of play because it gets super annoying when you have to constantly be waiting to hit your ball because the group in front of you isn’t moving because they’re chatting too much and not paying attention when it’s time for them to play.
When you start out golfing on an actual course, you may have to set yourself a limit. For example, you’re only going to try and hit it on the green with 8 strokes, and if you can’t make it, you pick your ball up and take it to the green to try and practice your putting, or just move on and try again at the next hole. Don’t ever feel bad about how many shots it takes you, even if you’re golfing with really good golfers, none of them are going to be upset with you as long as you’re not holding them up by moving slowly.
Try to figure out what club you’re going to need as you’re walking up to your ball. Set yourself up as quickly as you can and if you happen to be chatting to one of your partners as you’re heading to your ball, hit your ball first and then finish what you were saying. Once you’ve hit your ball, put the club back in your bag and get moving at a decent pace.
Try to remember these two things, and you’ll be just fine! It may seem scary at first and I still get the jitters when I golf with people I don’t know, but just remember that everyone is out there to have a good time and you should do the same!
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