SUSTAINABILITY IS KEY | DANIELLE LOMBARD
It's always great to enjoy something that has added benefits to help others! With Earth Day being this month and an ongoing focus on sustainability, we connected with Danielle Lombard who we were first introduced to on the 21st season of The Bachelor and again when she was on season 4 and 5 of Bachelor in Paradise. In addition to being on the show, Danielle is focused on sustainability and doing what is necessary to benefit the Earth in a number of ways. We talk about how we can be sustainable in a number of ways as well as her partnership with Astral Tequila through their This Round's For The House which supports the Adobe Brick Project. She shares how we can participate and how it benefits Jalisco, Mexico.
ATHLEISURE MAG: You’re very passionate about sustainability. How have you incorporated that into your life and why is that so important to you?
DANIELLE LOMBARD: I’m really passionate about sustainability just because, I have a very deep appreciation for nature and I think that over the last few years, I have become really aware of the negative impact that we have on it. Especially during the lockdown and COVID, I bought a National Park pass and I was driving around to all of the National Parks. I just realized that this is something that I love so much and that I don’t want to lose it. So what are the things that I could do at home to help diminish my footprint. I think that I do that because I compost all my food waste now, I shop consignment and vintage as much as possible, I upcycle when I can and I just try to join a lot of neighborhood recycling programs – recycling my empty beauty products and supporting sustainable brands such as Astral.
AM: We love that. For someone who has not started their journey and maybe overwhelmed as there are so many things to do and ways to go about it, they may be looking for easy or simple ways that they can get to the starting line. What would you suggest to them?
DL: I mean I always tell my friends just "re" as much as you can in recycle as possible – as much as you can! I mean, I bring my reusable bags to the grocery store as opposed to getting a plastic bag. I can just use my reusable shopping totes. I always carry around my refillable water bottle instead of buying a plastic water bottle. And if you’re out and about, you can always ask for your bartender to make you a cocktail with Astral so that you’re supporting a good cause.
AM: Tell us about the Adobe Brick Project. I think that it’s really interesting and that they are building homes in Jalisco, Mexico. In addition to tell us about this, why did you want to partner on this with them?
DL: As you know, I love sustainability and I try to implement those practices as much as possible. Astral asked me to be part of their Earth Day initiative which is promoting the This Round's For The House, which is all the bottles that are being purchased are going towards the Adobe Brick Project. With that, they are using all of the upcycled adobe bricks to create homes is Jalisco, Mexico which is where their tequila is produced. So, I like that they are giving back to their community. This Earth Day, Astral is going to announce that they have 10 homes being built right now.
AM: That’s amazing and it’s really cool to see that by enjoying your favorite tequila shot or cocktail you can assist in this initiative. I’m assuming that you have a favorite recipe as well!
DL: I do! I did a trip with them in Joshua Tree which was wonderful! We had a mixologist help us create cocktails based on our signs. So, I’m a Capricorn and I’ve been addicted to this cocktail ever since. It’s called the Saturn Moon. It’s with Astral Tequila Blanco, fresh lime juice, agave, ginger beer which is one of my favorite mixers and then we also muddled a handful of fresh blueberries!
AM: That sounds really refreshing!
DL: It’s amazing and one of the favorite drinks that we had!
AM: I’m a Virgo and even I would want to drink that one!
DL: Ok, I’m a Virgo Moon! The blueberries were really a nice touch.
AM: We enjoyed seeing you on The Bachelor and The Bachelor in Paradise. What was your biggest takeaway from your time on the show?
DL: Oh wow, I think that for me, going into it, I had recently gotten out of a very unhealthy relationship where I was very codependent on this person and spent several years building up their career and life. When I left, it was just this process of rediscovering myself. I validated the fact that I was glad to leave the relationship and that it was a good decision. I left with a new sense of independence and who I was as a person and what my values were. I also left with some of the most amazing friends that I now talk to every single day!
AM: That’s amazing. We always love when we interview people whether they were competing or they were The Bachelor/Bachelorette, we just had Michelle Young a few months ago and we always like talking about the group chats and who’s in it. Who are the people you talk to?
DL: Oh yeah! It’s pretty wild because after you get off this show, it’s such a unique experience. It’s really nice to have those group chats to share what you’re going through right now, because no one else really knows. Even in past seasons, everything from each house there is always some tea that happens, but I talk to Raven, Alexis and Jasmine. Those are my core girls that I’m still friends with every day. I just had a canceled flight in Dallas and I went over to Alexis’ house and spent the night.
We're always on a mission to find our next favorite cocktail and Danielle's Saturn Moon, sounded refreshing. We're going to share with you the recipe for Saturn Moon and whatever your horiscope is, Astral has a series of Astralogical recipes for you that's in line with your sign or your tastebuds.
SATURN MOON
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
1.5oz Astral Tequila Blanco
.5oz Fresh Lime Juice
.5oz Agave Nectar
A Handful of Blueberries
Ginger Beer
HOW TO MAKE IT
Combine first three ingredients into a cocktail shaker and muddle lightly. Add ice, shake and strain into an ice filled glass and top with Ginger Beer.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Andrew Ho
Read the APR ISSUE #88 of Athleisure Mag and see SUSTAINABILITY IS KEY | Danielle Lombard in mag,
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PHOTO CREDITS | ABC The Bachelor
THE BACHELOR S26. E12. | THE FINALE
We continue with the 2nd part of ABC’s The Bachelor finale. We catch up with Clayton Echard at the Hilton in Iceland as he wonders about what he will say to Susie. Jesse Palmer swings by Susie’s room and lets her know that Clayton has been distraught since she left. Susie obviosuly decides to talk to him and finds him there with his parents! She asks to talk with him privately and lets him know what she was thinking.
She lets him know that she can’t answer right now if she is willing to stay and he says that he understands. He decided to let Rachel and Gabby know that he is no longer continuing with them and they don’t take it well.
Back at the finale studio, Gabby comes to the stage and we see her grandfather which we all love as we know he loves her. Gabby shares her thoughts on what took place as she listened to Clayton saying that he was no longer interested in pursuing them and how she thought that she would be the one in the end.
Clayton joins Gabby on the stage and Gabby lets him know how she feels. Although she says she doesn’t think that he is malicious, he isn’t transparent. She believes that he didn’t compartmentalize the relationships even though he said he did. She also explains the importance of loving someone, saying it to the person it is intended to, protecting them and more.
Back on the show, he chats with Rachel and listens to her lay out the timeline and as Rachel notes, he doesn’t even shed a tear. He leads her to the car and she’s left to pick up the pieces. Back on the stage, Rachel watches it playing back and thinking about how in love she was with him. She also sees that in looking back, she fought hard for it and that Clayton just showed disrespect to them. As she talks about her experiences in Iceland, we see her tear up and at one point, Jesse asks if she is still in love with him. She explains that now that she sees everything that went on, she has no feelings for him because all she sees is the disrespect that he show the women that were still trying to continue their journey for them.
Rachel and Clayton are on the stage together. She feels that she will use this time to stand up for herself and to say the things that she didn’t get the chance to stay. Unlike Gabby, she didn’t get up to give him a hug. Rachel shares her thoughts and talks about how she sees him now and how he maneuvered the season. She lets him know that she doesn’t believe them. Throughout, we see that her parents are anger and we can only imagine what they really want to say if they had the ability to do so! Clayton maintains that he did what he thought was best, but he is angling to be a better person.
With both Gabby and Rachel out of the picture, he is focused on doing whatever it takes to win Susie back. He has his Neil Lane (who is also in the audience) ring and hopes that he can leave Iceland with his love. He tells her how much he loves her and how ready he is. She thanks him for his letter and can appreciate all the sentiments but she plans on leaving the island alone as she is not where he’s at and doesn’t feel that she can get there. He asks her if it’s really over or if she needs more time and she lets him know it’s over!
Back in the studio, Jesse says it’s the first time in Bachelor history that there has been a rejection at the final rose ceremony of the Bachelor and the journey ends with no one - or is it? Ultimately, Clayton and Jesse talk about the show and we learn that he is currently dating Susie! Even though she left the experience, they took time apart and then they reconnected! Before we get more details, we learn that the next Bachelorette will not be Gabby or Rachel! We now know that he will be moving in with her in Virginia as he has given up his job, sold his condo etc. He also asks her if she will accept the final rose which she does.
Gabby and Rachel will not only both be The Bachelorette but they will be in the same season! We loved how these two were with one another and this is a new twist to the show that we didn’t expect! We also love their families which we hope we will see more of in their journey! We also learn that Jesse will be the host which will be nice as there’s something to be said for someone that has been through the process and that they already know well.
With that, it’s a wrap! This season had various twists and turns and now, it’s time to look forward to The Bachelorette and our two fave ladies from this season, Gabby and Rachel!
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 12
So Gabby and Rachel will be The Bachelorette in the same season! We couldn’t be happier to seethis.
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THE BACHELOR S26. E11. | AFTER THE FANTASY SUITES
On tonight’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we’re back in the thick of it with all the drama from last week. Clayton Echard sent Susie home after she shared that she couldn’t believe that he had been intimate with someone else. Of course, we know the full story - but where do we go from here? With a 2 night finale, it’s definitely going to be interesting!
After seeing Clayton in a church getting his thoughts together and realizing that he feels broken, we see him catch up with Jesse Palmer on where he should go from there. Jesse suggests the format of the show should still be done.
Meanwhile, Gabby and Rachel are on their way to the rose ceremony without knowing that Susie was sent home the night before! Even Jesse says that this is the Rose Ceremony from Hell - yikes!
Jesse meets each of the women and they have nothing but great things to say about their connections, how they have felt etc. They see that there are 2 roses and they’re looking to see where Susie is! It dawns on them that she is not there. Clayton lays it all out there and tells them what took place! It’s definitely a stark moment as he becomes transparent and to see how the women absorb what he just said.
Gabby chats with him and although previously, she said that she wanted him to explore relationships fully, she’s clearly annoyed that he said, “I love you” to each of them and that ultimately, the one he picks is the one he loves the most! Gabby is not pleased and although she wants to know, at one point she tells him that she doesn’t need all the details.
He chats with Rachel and she is equally as hurt, but it seems like she’s willing to stay - but she is conflicted.
Both women accept his rose and they both meet his family. The family likes them, but they are looped into the fact that he became transparent with all of them. The family can see why Gabby and Rachel are upset about everything that has transpired.
Ultimately, the women bond well with his family; however, he lets them know that he wants to reach out to Susie! Jesse shares that Susie is still in Iceland! Tomorrow is the finale and we’re going to see how everything shakes out!
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 11
So Gabby and Rachel are still on the road to finding love - but will Susie be placed back in the mix?
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THE BACHELOR S26. E10. | FANTASY SUITES
On tonight’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we see Clayton prepping to go to Iceland and to meet the 3 women. We also see the uneasy grouping of Rachel, Gabby and Susie. Jesse reminds them how key this week is since it involves the Fantasy Suites. Rachel is given the first date card and prepares for her date.
The beginning of Rachel’s date is a helicopter ride over Reykjavik, Iceland. When they land, Clayton tells her that they are about to go into a volcano.
Their date continues onto dinner where they get a chance to talk with them. Rachel knows that she wants to use this time to connect with him and to see where he’s at. She asks him directly what he thinks about them as a couple. He lets her know that he was not able to be 100% transparent with her when he was with her family. He says that he wishes that he told her that he is falling in love with her. Of course, she’s so happy to know this and it makes her feel better as they head to the Fantasy Suites.
The next morning, we find that they are very close and cuddly and they look like a great couple - but he has 2 more dates to go! He leaves her and announces loudly that he loves her too!
Rachel lets them know that they had a great date and is respectful in not divulging the details. We can see that Susie is a little rattled and Gabby gets ready for the date.
Gabby and Clayton have a dune buggy date. At their dinner, he lets her know that he is in love with her. They continue onto the Fantasy Suite. Clayton wakes up next to Gabby and they enjoy some breakfast. When he leaves, he lets her know that he is falling in love with her and how it feels great!
Susie and Rachel chat with one another and talk about how hard the week is. They ask Gabby how her date went and she says it was fun since they rode dune buggies. Gabby tells them that they stayed in a yurt that had a huge bed in the middle. She kept it PG but then Susie called out her very visible bedhead.
Susie decides that she wants to get all the info to find out everything that she feels that she needs to know. Clayton realizes that he has told 2 people that he is falling in love with them and is feeling the weight of that.
Clayton moves on to his 3rd date with Susie. Their first portion of their date is in a cold room, a cold plunge and into a body scrub which is a lot warmer than the elements that they were in. They have dinner together and Clayton plans to tell her that he is in love with her. Susie enjoyed the date and she feels secure in her relationship with him. She wants to ask him some questions and she wants to know where he is with her and everyone else. He acknowledges how he was happy to hear her say that she was in love with him and since that time, he’s realized that things are getting serious and that the night she shared that, he was falling in love with her too. He them emphasizes that he is in love with her. So, Clayton is in love with Rachel and Susie and is falling in love with Gabby. Susie is excited to hear about this, but she feels the need to tell him about things that she doesn’t want to compromise on. She asks if he feels this way with others and whether he has slept with another woman. She lets him know that it woudl be impossible to move forwad if he did that because she doesn’t want to share. Clayton is startled but then lets her know that he has said that he was in love with someone else and that he slept with someone else.
She lets him know that she doesn’t know if she can go forward knowing this info (although she doesn’t know she slept with 2 women). Clayton tells her he doesn’t want her to go just because of that, he claims that if he knew she felt that way, he would have approached things differently. Susie doesn’t know if she can continue on. Clayton is upset and talks with Jesse to work through what he is feeling. Clayton wants to iron things out with her and he feels like he’s being torn apart. Susie and Clayton continue to talk to figure out what they can do now that everything has been brought to life. He sends Susie home! He tells her that the fact that she didn’t fight for him during this “rough patch”, that she was not the person for him. He told her that what she did invalidated their relationship and ultimately, it makes him feel that the entire situation is invalidated!
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 10
Hometowns took place last week with - Gabby, Rachel, Serene and Susie. After an explosive episode, Susie’s date was cut short after she sought for clarity and Clayton sent her home!
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THE BACHELOR S26. E9. | WOMEN TELL ALL
On tonight’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we go into the Women Tell All episode which will let us know more about what happened over the season. We can’t wait until tomorrow’s episode as it’s really starting to get very serious as we enter the Fantasy Suites.
Claire shares why and how she knew that she was no longer interested in being with Clayton on the first night. The episode also opens with Shanae and Cassidy as they address their misbehavior throughout their time on the show. Shanae spends some time on the hot seat explaining her actions. Genevieve also joins her to talk about their 2-on-1 date.
Sarah has time on the couch where she lets the ladies know that it was never her intention to make them feel like she was trying to manipulate the situation. It seems like the women will follow up with Clayton to get their answers. A Bachelor Nation favorite, Teddi sits on the couch to talk about how their relationship was and how it was ultimately cut short.
Serene is the last woman to sit on the couch as she had a warm and successful Hometown and was eliminated in last week’s episode. Serene felt that there is a lot of confusion around her being sent home. The women chat with Clayton and call him out on things that he did throughout the season and he admits that there were mistakes that he made. He also lets Shanae know that what she did was not ok . We also got a sneak peek at the remaining episodes!
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 9
Hometowns took place last week with - Gabby, Rachel, Serene and Susie. Clayton sent Serene home. Now that the Women Tell All took place, we’re all excited for tomorrow’s episode to find out who he will continue with and what takes place at the Fantasy Suites.
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THE BACHELOR S26. E8. | HOMETOWNS
On today’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we are finally at Hometowns! It’s been quite a season, but this is always a period in the show that we’re excited to see! Clayton meets up with Susie in West Virginia and they have the day portion of their date doing a number of martial art moves. Apparently, Susie did this in Japan and continues to enjoy the practice. Clayton, who is always game for anything seems to enjoy this activity as well.
Susie’s family was so sweet and welcoming to Clayton. You could tell that they were great people and that they truly supported Susie in her journey with him.
Up next is Gabby in Denver,Colorado. Gabby takes him on a hike, complete to Proposal Rock. It’s an easy date and you can see their connection as well. After a bit of hiking in the mountains, they hop into a hot tub where they can take a look at the amazing view. When they go to meet Gabby’s family, you can see that they are all close and a number of people came since her father couldn’t come due to a new normal of COVID issues (it seems like his girlfriend may have been immunocompromised. Interestingly enough, her dad pulled a Love Actually and came in the driveway and shared that he was proud of her daughter and if Clayton felt right to her, that she should act upon it. Clearly, he knew that Gabby wanted his opinion and felt a bit lost without being able to have it. She also let Clayton know that she was falling in love with him.
The third Hometown date is with Serene and we see her and Clayton tackling heights and maneuvering around an apparatus. They arrive at her family’s home and Clayton’s brother definitely asks him hard hitting questions. We can see that her family is very close.
On Rachel’s date, they’re in Florida and have a glass bottom kayak boat where they navigate it through the waters that has alligators in there! They make their way to the Kissing Tree. Rachel warns him that her dad is tough and after seeing her dad looking at Clayton, we totally see everything that she has been saying. But in the end, her father does let him know that he would be ok continuing his journey with his daughter.
We head back to LA as the rose ceremony is about to begin. We learn that Susie, Gabby and Rachel will continue and Serene does not receive the rose.
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE AT THIS POINT | Susie, Gabby and Rachel.
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Serene
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 8
Last week the group of Hometowns women was set - Gabby, Rachel, Serene and Susie. Continuing on with the journey after tonight’s episode is:
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THE BACHELOR S26. E7. | AND WE CONTINUE
On today’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we pick up where we left off - Sarah receiving the rose, Mara being public about not feeling like Sarah deserves to be there and the confrontation that will probably take place now that Sarah knows what has been said behind her back! Sarah comes back to the suite and Mara gives a smile upon her arrival - she lets everyone know that it’s not their place to let anyone know what they think that she is ready for. She asks who shared this information and as she has treated people with respect, she shouldn’t have a target on her back. Mara says that it was her and was honest.
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE AT THIS POINT | Teddi, Rachel and Sarah
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Shanae, Hunter and Marlena
Another rose ceremony is about to begin and there are only 9 women that are left! Clayton says that he is looking forward to having a good night and pulls Serene outside with their very own firefly moment. A number of his interactions are light-hearted and then Mara takes a moment to pull Sarah aside to refute statements that were made the night before. It feels like regardless of whether you agree with Mara or not, there is a thing about time and place. She should have brought this up after Sarah shared her thoughts or maybe a few hours later - but right during the cocktail party before the rose ceremony?
The 6th rose ceremony begins - there are only 4 roses left to give out!
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE AT THIS POINT | Teddi, Rachel, Sarah, Susie, Serene, Gabby and Genevieve
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Eliza and Mara
With 7 women left, their journey will continue in Vienna. This is their last stop before HOMETOWNS! The date card arrives and Susie will have a 1-on-1 date with Clayton as they hit the town. Susie enjoys a shopping experience where she gets to be pampered for the day and leaves with a number of bags. They also take in a bit of site seeing as well. Clayton reminds us that she was the first one to tell him that she loved him and that means something to him. They pop into another shop of couture dresses from a noted Austrian designer.
As they have the night portion of their date, they talk about how she likes to be independent and can appreciate the gifts that she received. She also gets the date rose and they dance to Lady in Red to end it.
The date card arrives with Sarah, Tedd, Genevieve, Rachel and Gabby. Serene will be on the 1-on-1 date.
HOMETOWNS FOR NEXT WEEK | Susie,
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Eliza and Mara
The group date begins and they are going to have couple therapy sessions. They are reminded that Vienna is the home of Sigmund Freud. The women look uncomfortable as this is a pretty intense date - how deep will this be and is this intrusive?
The women have their couples counseling with Clayton. Genevieve was nervous about doing this since she doesn’t like to open up. In the middle of their session after a long silence, he asks her to step out so that they can talk without the counselor being there as he wants to know more about her. Because she refuses to let him in, she tells him that she thinks that they’re not meant to be and he walks her out. Clayton lets them know that he is looking for clairty and when it isn’t there, he will have to send them home. He tells them that Genevieve has left. The women are nervous as they realize that they want to lay everything on the line. Sarah giggles with the women and lets them know that she has a great relationship with Clayton and that she loves therapy. The women wonder if Sarah is doing things that are a tactic or if she doesn’t realize that what she is saying and how she says it comes off a certain way. The analysis of the women is over and the counselor shares that some of the women are being a bit performative. He informs the women that they will have a cocktail party where they can talk more. Clearly he wants to get to the bottom of it. Sarah says she’s not sure who she is talking about. As the women all look towards her.
He asks to speak with Rachel first and he says that he knows it’s not her. Rachel shares post the date that he had with Sarah, she went to Rachel and Teddy and talked about details on their date. Clayton hears that Sarah shares info in hopes that people will pull away from him. He then talks with the remaining women and they let him know that this has been going on for weeks. Now he knows he has to question what he is hearing and he wonders about everything that is being said. He does confront her and she says that none of those things were said by her. As she cried to him, he let her know that he thinks that she is trying to fake cry. Clayton sends her home.
Although the women on the group date are annoyed that more drama happened, they feel that they are at ease since he sent her home. He lets them know that he sent her home and that he wants to make sure the right people are there. The group date rose is being held back as he wants to make sure that he is making the right decision.
The final date for tonight will be the 1-on-1 with Serene. She asks him how he is doing as she was shocked that Sarah was sent home. Clayton appreciates it and they take some time to check out Vienna as well as to take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage. After being out during the day, Serene and Clayton sit down for dinner to get to know more about one another. She shares the last time her parents met someone she was dating was her high school boyfriend and although they were connected, they realized that they wanted to do different things after being together for such a long time. Clayton understood as the same had happened to him at a point in time. She tells him that she is falling in love with him and wants to make sure that he knows. She received the date rose and is heading to HOMETOWNS.
The women assemble at the rose ceremony (no cocktail party at this point) and Clayton lets them know it’s been a journey this week. With two roses left, he sends home Teddi which is such a surprise!
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE AT THIS POINT | Susie, Serene, Rachel and Gabby
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Eliza, Mara, Genevieve, Sarah and Teddi.
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 7
Last week and for a number of weeks, we have chosen Eliza, Rachel, Sarah and Teddi as the women who will head to Hometowns as we are at the halfway point. Earlier in tonight’s episode, Eliza was sent home and we’re sad to see her go. Sarah was sent home after Clayton realized that she wasn’t being honest. Now we know, who will be heading into HOMETOWNS - Gabby, Rachel, Serene and Susie.
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THE BACHELOR S26. E6. | HOW LONG WILL THE DRAMA CONTINUE?
On today’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we are left with the one question that continues to follow us from one episode to the next - will the drama continue? Now, regular drama/tension is expected, but when it is obvious and seems fueled by production that encourages these shenanigans to continue, it just feels like a number of lines are being crossed. It’s our hope that a key element of recent drama will finally be put to rest so that we can just watch the interactions of everyone else without so many interruptions.
We go right into the date with Shanae and Genevieve. He takes 1-on-1 time with Genevieve first and she lets him know that she may not seem like she shows her emotion, but she is there for the right person. Shanae mocks her during her confessional. When Clayton Echard takes time to sit down with her, he asks how everything is going. Shanae says that Genevieve is saying that she wants to go home and doesn’t know why she is there. How Clayton is able to hear that Shanae always has an issue with someone - how can he not see that a lot of this is made up. He asks Genevieve if she has been acting and she says no. Ultimately, he gives the rose to GENEVIEVE! He sends Shanae home.
We head to the cocktail party where Clayton acknowledges that Shanae was sent home and he knows that the women are happy too as he heard them singing in the elevator. He takes some time with the women and the fact that there isn’t this frenzied drama that has existed over the past few weeks is a nice change.
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE AT THIS POINT | Gabby, Rachel, Genevieve, Sarah, Serene, Susie, Teddi, Eliza and Mara.
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Shanae, Hunter and Marlena
They continue onto Hvar, Croatia and everyone recognizes that there are less people and they need to make their moments count. Clayton meets them and lets them know that a 1-on-1 will happen now and he will explore the city with Teddi. The women say that they’re happy that Teddi got that as they know she wanted to time. Mara is bummed that she didn’t get it and she’s feeling discouraged.
Teddi and Clayton are on their date getting to know one another and of course, Teddi seems to have something that she wants to share with him that she hopes is not a deal-breaker. With a great day date, their night portion is where Teddi knows that she has to be transparent. She lets him know that she is a virgin and that although she doesn’t need to wait until she is married, she wants to do it with the person that she is in love with. Clayton understands her point and asks if she has been in love with someone. She has not been in love, but she feels that in the past she has put up walls and she lets him know that she has been working on makign sure her walls are down so that she can fully be in the experience. She lets him know that being in love to her, seems like when you have a trust with someone - then there is a way to fall in love and it may not be a feeling in one way, but it is in another.
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE AT THIS POINT | Teddi
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Shanae, Hunter and Marlena
The date card arrives Serene, Rachel, Susie, Gabby, Eliza, Genevieve and Mara are on the group date together. Sarah will have a 1-on-1 and they had just talked about how more than likely whoever has had a 1-on-1 wouldn’t get another and she did!
The group date assembles outside and they watch medieval soldiers fighting in their armor. They met Croatian knights and learn that women fought alongside men! Everyone must be happy that Shanae is NOT on this date! They learn fighting skills and are loving their uniforms and it’s reasonably light-hearted. Their next challenge is a table filled with foods where the women are surprised to eat various delaciies of that time - fish eyeballs, pig brains and more. Serene and Mara go to town on the food. They final challenge is to kneel in the square to let him know why they are fighting for him. Not going to lie, Mara busted out a rhyme and clearly won that particular battle. The knight crowns Serene as the winner and we feel a bit for Mara. Clayton carries Serene out and the girls watch them.
At the after party, Clayton is pleased to get know more about each of them. He chats with Rachel and she lets him know that she is falling in love with him. When Mara sits down with Clayton, she lets him know that what he’s asking for isn’t in line with his actions. She tells him that some of the women have been vocal about not being ready to get engaged and others she feels are too young. He says that Sarah is one of the younger people in the house and asks if she is talking about her. Mara says yes, but also says that she wants to be true to who she is and to let him know that she is not just there for a good time. Mara feels good about the conversation.
The group date rose goes to Rachel and Mara feels that she’s exhausted and not getting anything back.
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE AT THIS POINT | Teddi, Rachel
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Shanae, Hunter and Marlena
After the group date, there is a knock on Clayton’s door where he finds an envelope that tells him to meet “me” at the Clock Tower. We thought it was Mara but it was Susie who wanted to meet him! He sees that she’s happy so he’s glad that it’s not going to be something out of left field. Susie planned an outing knowing that there is a 1-on-1 date happening. Susie takes him on a little tour and tells him that she is falling in love with him.
Mara talks with Gabby about what she talked about with Clayton as Sarah prepares to go on a date with Clayton. Jesse Palmer meets him prior to their date and Clayton takes some time to talk about falling in love with someone who doesn’t feel the same way back. Jesse acknowledges his feelings and shares that this is normal to feel at this time in the process; however, he needs to figure it out so that he can make the best decision. Sarah meets up with Clayton for their dinner and has no idea how serious this evening may get. She proposes a toast and he lets her know that he wants to know more about her to make sure they are on the same page. He lets her know that he has been told that some people may not be here for what he is exactly looking for in terms of leaving engaged. He lets her know that because of Hometowns, he needs to know and can she see leaving being engaged and is she prepared for it. Sarah looks shocked and says that she is ready and has always felt that way and has not been lying as she was there because it was him. After their 1-on-1 initially, she felt that way even more. He thanks her for being vulnerable and lets her know that he is concerned as he doesn’t want to give and lose everything. He steps away for a few moments to assess what he has heard from Mara and what she just said.
Back at the house, Mara continues to share with the other women that because she felt that when she was 23 that she wasn’t ready for a commitment, she finds it hard to believe that Sarah could be. He lets her know that he was concerned by giving her a 2nd date that a target would be placed on her back. He gives her the date rose - what will this mean for Mara? Will she continue and will Sarah demand to know who said this about her and will the women in the house tell her?
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE AT THIS POINT | Teddi, Rachel and Sarah
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Shanae, Hunter and Marlena
Until next week to find out how Sarah will address what took place!
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 6
Last week, we chose Eliza, Rachel, Sarah and Teddi as the women who will head to Hometowns as we are at the halfway point. We’re going to stay with this group of Hometown possibles!
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THE BACHELOR S26. E5. | WILL CLAYTON GET CLARITY?
On today’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, the drama continues as the women in the house have their attention on Shanae and her antics that continue to create negativity in the house.
We see Serene and Clayton Echard on their 1-on-1 date where they have the entire pier just for them. They have a great time going on rides, enjoying ice cream and connecting. At their dinner, they delve into deeper topics to find out more about Serene and why she seems to have a bit of a wall. She lets him know that she has experienced a lot of loss and that she tries her best to get through it. Clayton appreciates that she shares her vulnerability. She receives the date rose.
The rose ceremony is about to begin and we know that more drama will come to this night and possibly end the cocktail portion earlier than anticipated. The women try to talk with Shanae which goes nowhere and Clayton comes out and says he wants to see the women who won from the last group date. He asks them what is going on in relation to Shanae. Sierra tells him and lets him know about the trophy and what she did. They all explain that her behavior was not appropriate. Back with the rest of the women, they let her know that obviously they are talking about her and she needs to recognize her behavior. Clayton says he didn’t know that the trophy incident happened and that he needs to talk with Shanae to find out about her cussing them out and throwing the trophy. Of course, Sierra tells her to change her actions because she is not trusted.
Clayton comes out to pull her outside and the women hope this means that she is leaving the house! He talks with Shanae about the after-party group date. She lets him know that she told the women to keep her name out of their mouth AND she threw the trophy. On one side, we’re surprised that she just owned up to it unasked, but of course, she gets a pseudo pass by saying that if she continues to do that, then they won’t have a path forward. He asks if she is apologetic for what she did and she says that she shoudln’t have done that.
She apologizes and some of the women embrace her and let her know that she deserves the space to grow. She quickly tells Clayton that she did and of course, he gives her a kiss and in her confessional, she says she’s not sorry and that she should get an Oscar for her performance. One can only wonder what Clayton thinks about seeing all of this playback.
The rose ceremony begins and it seems like most of the women didn’t even get 1-on-1 time with Clayton to talk with him to further their individual relationships. Clayton thanks them for being open, honest and holding him accountable. He hopes that they have all been seen or heard.
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE | Serene, Eliza, Sarah, Marlena, Genevieve, Mara, Gabby, Susie, Hunter, Rachel (from last week) and Shanae.
CLAYTON SENT HOME | Lyndsey, Sierra and Jill
Clayton lets them know that are going to Toronto while Shanae is super glib on being able to stay and being responsible for sending 2 girls home back-to-back!
The graphic shows that they have flown from Houston to Toronto and he hopes that the drama with Shanae has passed because they have changed locales. The date card arrives and Gabby gets the 1-on-1 date. Shanae in her confessional says that when she gets the rose on this leg of the date, everyone can just stop talking. Shanae is bothered by others being happy that someone else got this date versus themselves.
Gabby and Clayton explore the area via the helicopter. He admits in his confessional that she was not on his radar originally but over time, she has been. They play a bit of street hockey together in the park. They take in some treats in the area as well as get to mark a wall for approved graffiti. Gabby also takes the time to bond with dogs that they pass by. Gabby was so happy to be on the date as she knows that she didn’t get time with him at all. He lets her know that he loves her jokester side and the fact that she is goofy as it’s important for him to see that. As much as she likes hearing that, she also wants him to know that she has a serious side as well and she wants him to see all oher and not just one part.
Back at the hotel, Shanae shares that she’s hoping for a 1-on-1 because they need that. The next date card arrives with Rachael, Sarah, Serene, Marlena, Susie, Hunter, Eliza, Teddi and Mara being on the group date. Which leaves a 2-on-1 date with Genevieve and Shanae being on that one. Those on the group date are glad that she will not be with them and they can have a good time. The women (minus Shanae) feel bad for Genevieve.
Back on Gabby’s dinner date, he continues to laughs and jokes, but she speaks up and lets him know that she’s not just one dimensional and also talks about her family struggles with her mom as they don’t see eye to eye and communicate a lot. Clayton actually asks her questions about whether they can repair that relationship. He understands that she uses humor to deflect what’s going on with her so that she can put on a good face. He appreciates her letting him know more about her. She receives the 1-on-1 date rose. They end their date in the pool and he feels that she could be his wife possibly.
The group date begins and it will be one of the few drama-free dates that have taken place. Although we know that all the women would have loved a 1-on-1 date, you can see that they are happy to have the time. Clayton takes them to their date and they see Jesse Palmer who is quickly joined by Russell Peters who is known as the master of the roasts - so interesting to see what the women in the house will do. It’s a good idea that Shanae was not included on this date since they will be making fun of one another and for the most part, those on this date will be able to handle it.
Without her there, Clayton hears all the women knock on Shanae throughout their roasts. We’ve always believed that in humor there is a lot of truth and hopefully he reads between the lines and realizes that the person he sees is not really who she is.
Clayton shares that they came at him for sure as we all know he is a fan of humor. It’s nice to see that the women on this date are having a good time, being respectful and can leave issues and drama behind. The fact that they can actually get 1-on-1 time with him is also a surprise.
Gabby is at the house with Genevieve and Shanae and Gabby wishes that she was anywhere but there. She reads the date card for their 2-on-1 with Clayton. He writes that he needs to make a decision and it’s the first time that he doesn’t write, “love Clayton.”
Back at the group date, more bonds and discussions are taking place. It’s interesting how no one is talking about Shanae in this date or feeling the need to defend other girls who have been caught in her crosshairs. Eliza’s time with him is so cute as she gives him shots of maple syrup - an interesting choice. The group date rose goes to Rachel.
The women feel bad that they didn’t get it; however, they don’t trash one another and make people feel uncomfortable. They question whether this is the place for them or how they can make themselves noticed even when they feel that they are doing as much as they can to connect with him.
The 2-on-1 is happening and clearly this will continue onto the next episode! There’s so much anticipation and yet we know that Shanae will not be able to keep it together. The date is at Niagra Falls on the Canadian side and as they head closer to the destination, they sit in silence in the car. They will see the falls from the boat and we’re continuing to cringe on the levels that Shanae is not afraid to go to in order to get what she wants. Back at the hotel, the women continue to speak about this date and that it will have a ripple effect to the rest of the women.
ROSES CLAYTON GAVE | Gabby, Rachel,
CLAYTON SENT HOME |
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 5
Last week, we chose Eliza, Rachel, Sarah and Teddi as the women who will head to Hometowns as we are at the half way point. We’re going to stay with this group.
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THE BACHELOR S26. E4. | THINGS ARE COMING TO A HEAD
On today’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we continue to hear the drama surrounding Shanae as they head into the cocktail ceremony prior to the rose ceremony. The women know that Clayton Echard wants to talk about what is happening and this makes everyone feel apprehensive.
He lets them know that he needs to address the issue between Shenae and Elizabeth and pulls them outside to chat. He wants to hash out the conflict and to hear both sides.
Shenae shares that after getting shrimp from Elizabeth she decided to make it for the other women. She uses it as an example to show how she was bullied when no one turned when she offered. His face looks exhausted as it seems like he sees this is a pointless effort. So much bickering takes place between the women and Shenae that the part is closed and it’s going straight to the ceremony.
Roses were given to: Marlena, Teddi, Rachael, Mara, Sierra, Gabby, Susie, Jill, Serene, Genevieve, Sarah, Hunter, Lyndsey, Eliza and Shanae.
Clayton sent home: Elizabeth, Melina and Kira.
Post the ceremony, the women debrief about what happened and they realize that they should just be cordial but an arms distance away from her. Shanae tells everyone that she feels that she can talk and not be scared. Jesse Palmer lets them know that they are leaving LA and will be traveling around the world starting with Houston. Clayton is excited that Clarence who lives in Houston pops by his room to hang out. He shares the drama that has taken place in the house and hopes that travel will get everyone on the same page and in a positive mood.
The date card arrives - Rachel receives the 1-on-1 date. They make their way to a pair of horses and find themselves heading to a barbecue. They find that they’re going to make a meal together. It ends up being an easy day and we can see the connection that they have with one another. Their dinner deepens their connection and they leave that for a solo concert by Restless Road. Rachel gets the rose.
Another date card arrives Sarah, Eliza, Teddi, Marlena Jill, Susie, Mara, Sierra, Hunter, Lindsey, Genevieve, Gabby and Shanae are on the group date and will be heading to the stadium. The women feel that this will be an intense date. Serene will be on the 1-on-1 date.
The women wonder what they need to do about the Shanae situation and are concerned about what this means for their group date. They arrive at the stadium where they see Clayton in his tailgating set up. They’re playing games, grilling and having fun. They learn that they will be playing football. The winner will go to the after party and those who lose will be at the hotel.
Hannah Storm and Jesse break the game down and we see that the women are taking this date seriously.
The purple team wins and they’re glad to have time with Clayton and happy that Shanae is not there. Sierra tells Clayton that Shanae is not someone that he can trust and other women in the house also bring this up as well. Shanae decides to come to the after party. She breaks up 1-on-1 time and says that even though she was on the losing team, she deserves to be there. He brings up things that the women shared with him.
We end the episode with Rachel being the only person who has the rose and heading into next week wondering who will make the cut and how long Shanae will actually be continuing during the season.
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 4
Last wee we picked Eliza, Rachel, Sarah and Teddi - we’re going to stay with these girls even though the episode didn’t end with a ceremony.
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THE BACHELOR S26. E3. | CLAYTON'S QUEST CONTINUES
On today’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we pick up from the previous episode as the fallout from Sierra’s information about Cassidy continues. Although Cassidy dodges the question, she eventually admits that she slept with the friends with benefits a few times, but she is all in with Clayton Echard. Ultimately, he sends her home - even though she has a rose. He also sends home Ency, Tessa and Kate.
There are 3 dates this week - 2 groups and an individual. Jesse Palmer gives the date card to the girls and they find that Serene, Susie, Eliza, Mara, Marlena, Hunter, Geneiveve and Jill are all on a date together. They catch up with Kaitlyn Bristowe on their date where they will share their vulnerabilities with one another. The women and Clayton share sensitive information with one another - to hear about Hunter’s ex-boyfriend having her change her hair and eye color, was really infuriating to hear. Hearing everyone opening up and knowing that the people involved were genuine as opposed to others who could have been on this date, let it be a great experience. At the after-party from this date, he gets more one-on-one time and he even admits that he wishes he could give all of them one and he tells them that. Ultimately, he gives Eliza the rose.
The next date card arrives and is a one-on-one with Sarah. Shanae is annoyed that everyone is nice to one another when she feels that this is a competition and they shouldn’t be happy that someone got a one-on-one date.
Becca Kufrin meets Sarah and Clayton on the date and tells them that they will do a scavenger hunt in their undies in DTLA. It’s a day of yes, while also having people watching them do a number of activities. They do a number of activities that make them uncomfortable, but it helps them bond with one another. At dinner, they talk about Sarah being adopted and she is given the date rose.
The group date includes Gabby, Rachel, Kira, Melina, Lyndsey, Sierra, Teddi, Elizabeth and Shanae - they are going to the beach! Of course, Shanae doesn’t like that Elizabeth is on “her date”. Their date is on the beach and as the girls are hanging out on the sand, Nicole Eggert of Baywatch fame lets them know that she is putting them through some paces. They change into their Baywatch outfits and Shanae is deemed aggressive with Clayton’s body (she only applied sunscreen to his nipples). They learn how to do CPR as well as learning the powerful slomo moves that the show was known for. Shanae goes all in with aggressively kissing him, but ultimately Nicole gives Gabby additional time with him. At the after party from the event, the women are looking forward to a drama free night. They all note that Shanae was pretty crazy throughout the date. Gabby made sure that his sunburn was taken care of by putting aloe on him after he took his shirt off.
Shanae continues to bring the drama and talks about this drama with Elizabeth and how she’s making others not talk to her. In her confessional, she laughs at how Clayton believed her and how she hadn’t intended to cry, but threw that in there for good measure. We know that the producers love keeping castmembers that continue the drama - but this one is just so obvious, fingers crossed that she will be eliminated soon. Shanae attacks the other women on the group date and you can tell that the tide is beginning to turn. It’ll be interesting to see what happens in next week’s episode.
SENT HOME: Cassidy, Ency, Tessa, Kate
RECEIVED A ROSE: Eliza, Sarah,
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 3
Since last week was a cliffhanger, we stayed with our picks from Episode 1 - Eliza, Ency, Rachel and Teddi. Of course, Ency was eliminated earlier in today’s episode so we’re now adding Sarah to this group of potential Hometowns.
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THE BACHELOR S26. E2. | CLAYTON DIGS DEEPER INTO THE RELATIONSHIPS
On today’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor, we see the women getting relaxed in the Bachelor Mansion which seems like forever since we’ve seen it. Jesse Palmer introduces himself to the women formerly. He also leaves them the first date card.
Teddi, Ency, Malina, Gabby, Mara, Sierra, Geneivieve, Serene, Cassidy and X +head to their first group date with Clayton Echard. Joining this date is Hilary Duff and the women fangirl that she’s arrived. They are going to hang out with kids while creating a fun birthday party for one of them. Cassidy is not interested in getting the party ready and the girls notice that she’s nowhere to be found - they know she’s been hanging out with Clayton and has turned the group date into a 1-on-1 date. In addition, Cassidy let the kids know that she didn’t like them and dropped the cake that was made by Genevieve!
They move on to the cocktail portion of the night. Clayton says that he enjoyed the effort that took place and can’t wait to get to know more about them. As he chats with Serene and has the sweetest first kiss, Cassidy is throwing the gauntlet of being the utmost villain. The ladies at the cocktail party let them know that they don’t like how she has acted and she lets them know that she isn’t there for that and that she thinks that she’s going to get the rose.
Back at the house. another date card arrives with Susie getting the 1-on-1 date. Back at the cocktail party, it’s getting pretty intense. Clayton gives the rose for the group date to Cassidy which definitely makes the mood shift even further.
Susie’s 1-on-1 begins with Clayton and they have a helicopter date and of course, fly over the mansion. After exploring the area, they land on a yacht and enjoy champagne. He sees how Susie is just a chill woman who is appreciative. They end their date at the Hudson Loft for dinner and a bit of dancing to a song performed by Amanda Jordan. Of course, she receives the date rose.
The next date card arrives and Marlena, Elizabeth, Kate, Sarah, Lindsey, Rachel, Tessa and Shanae are going out as a group. Their group date is with Ziwe as she plays a game to illustrate red flags with a game of “never have I ever” and then they get ready for an obstacle course. Throughout the date, Shenae tries to push her way through; however, she misses some things while being mad at others who are getting further with him. Thankfully she doesn’t win, but she vows to recover her footing at the cocktail party. Sarah wins the challenge and they are onto the cocktail party. Clayton lets them know that he had a great time and that he looks forward to getting to know more about them.
In the first group date, we watch as Cassidy goes into attack mode to get what she wants. We saw Shenae talk with Cassidy and get pumped up to also gain ground like her friend; however, when we see her on the other group date, we realize that her actions don’t quite match what she says she wants to do. When Shenae finally gets time with Clayton, she decides to share that Elizabeth is not there for the right reason which definitely feels like she is grabbing at straws on this one. He pulls Elizabeth to the side to address the potential issue.
Sarah gets the group date rose. Shenae and Elizabeth chat and we all know that Shenae tried to throw her under the bus when she did nothing wrong. Shenae outs her ADHD status in front of the women and says that she is confused about their sidebar conversation. Ultimately, the entire situation is extremely messy and leaves everyone unsettled when it comes to what they can expect for the rose ceremony cocktail party.
At the party, Eliza does the cutest mini date in teaching Clayton how to scrapbook which was cute. She didn’t have a date this week, but found a way to stand out. Shenae takes the time to talk with Elizabeth to try to squash everything (mainly because Cassidy told her to stop what’s going on). Shenae continues to fan the flame by reiterating that maybe Elizabeth’s ADHD is the problem and that that condition doesn’t allow her to remember that they had had a talk to handle everything. In the end, Elizabeth is rightfully offended and shares with the women. In front of the larger group Shenae continues to mock her ADHD to a point where Cassidy even says that she has gone too far and that she can’t support that kind of behavior. Clearly their duo is quickly coming to an end.
Cassidy leaves the chaos to take some time with Clayton - even though she has a rose already. The ladies all support Elizabeth for being classy in the face of Shenae’s inappropriate behavior. Other girls wonder if they will have less time to connect due to the fact that there is all this drama going on. Cassidy lets the girls know that she is relentless in her pursuits. Interestingly enough, Cassidy told Sierra that she has a friend with benefits at home and she goes to Clayton to let him know what she has been told. She even pulls Cassidy aside to let her know what she did.
In 2 weeks, we’ll find out whether Cassidy will keep her rose and who will be selected to continue their journey.
SENT HOME: We have a cliffhanger so no one was sent home tonight.
RECEIVED A ROSE: Cassidy, Susie, Sarah
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26 - EPISODE 2
Since we have a cliffhanger, we’re going to stay with our picks from last week, Eliza, Ency, Rachel and Teddi.
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THE BACHELOR S26. E1. | CLAYTON BEGINS HIS JOURNEY
We kick off the New Year with Season 26 of ABC’s The Bachelor, which focuses on Clayton Echard as he starts his journey (he is coming off of Michelle Young’s The Bachelorette season 18). Jesse Palmer kicked off the season by reminding us that he was The Bachelor season 5. Having a host that is also a form Bachelor and also played professional football is nice to have that balance and to bring in that level of warmth.
We get a recap of what took place during his season with Michelle and he addressed the fact that he didn’t have the most screentime so it would seem surprising that he would be the next Bachelor.
The fact that the mansion is back, it’s definitely like coming back to an old friend as it’s a stomping ground that we know well. We’re also introduced to the women that we’ll get to know very well.
We meet Salley and we realize that she was supposed to get married and the day of meeting Clayton, she tells him that she was supposed to be married. She lets him know that she is conflicted and he offers her a rose and ultimately, she declines it! Thus all happened pre-limo!
He connects with Jesse to talk about what happened and now we’re finally meeting the women. It’s always fun to see the personalities and how they connect with their intended as they come out of the limo. The mix of sweet and over-the-top entrances is always fun to watch. All the women have arrived and Clayton gives a toast as they begin to get to know one another. He gets 1-on-1 time with each woman, but it’s an extended kiss with Teddi that the girls see where they realize that this is getting serious. Interestingly enough, Teddy didn’t intend to kiss on the first night. The first impression rose arrives and they know that it’s time to step it up - if they have yet to do so. Although everyone enjoyed the dates and times with him, Claire says that he’s not her type and that she feels it’s not a fit. He walks her out as he only wants people that want to be there. He lets them know if anyone wants to step out, now is the time. He then asks to see Teddy so that he can give her the First Impression rose. He also lets them know that the cocktail party is now over and the rose ceremony will begin. The women wonder if the time that they had was enough to ensure that they will be able to stay in the house. He lets them know after tonight, he knows that his wife is in the room and he apologizes to those that he didn’t get a chance to speak to.
SENT HOME: Claire, Daria, Hailey, Ivana, Jane, Lindsay D, Rianna, Salley and Samantha.
RECEIVED A ROSE: Cassidy, Eliza, Elizabeth, Ency, Gabby, Genevieve, Hunter, Jill, Kate, Kira, Lindsey W, Mara, Marlina, Melina, Rachel, Sarah, Serene, Shanae, Sierra, Susie, Teddi, and Tessa.
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26
We’re sharing who you can expect to see on the upcoming season of S26 The Bachelor. The first night brought a lot of surprises from Salley leaving before the limos arrived and kicking out Claire who was unquestionably rude. Teddi received the First Impression rose so we think that she along with Eliza who had a fun interactive German lesson, Enyc who brought a new vibe by talking with Clayton in Persian and Korean as well as the flight instructor, Rachel could be a great group heading to Hometowns!
THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
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PHOTO CREDITS | ABC The Bachelor
THE BACHELOR S26. | SEE THE WOMEN OF CLAYTON ECHARD'S SEASON
On Jan 3rd, days after ringing in the New Year, we will begin Season 26 of ABC’s The Bachelor and get to see Clayton Echard start his journey (he is coming off of Michelle Young’s The Bachelorette season 18. Clayton’s season will be hosted by Jesse Palmer which will also be an interesting twist as we have enjoyed seeing him host a number of shows.
Prior to any season, ABC releases who will be the contestants on the show. We have a number of people that we’re already thinking will make it far this season.
Each night during the season, we tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
SEASON 26
We’re sharing who you can expect to see on the upcoming season of S26 The Bachelor.
THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
Featured TV Show
PHOTO COURTESY | ABC/The Bachelor
THE BACHELOR S25. E11. | THE SEASON FINALE + AFTER THE ROSE
If you have yet to see tonight’s 11th episode, spoilers are ahead! Tonight is the final episode. We’re down to Michelle and Rachael as Matt James has to make the big decision on who will get the final rose. We also have After the Rose which is teasing more shockers! Before we get to that, we meet Matt’s mom, Patty and his older brother John who have come to help him out.
We kick off with Michelle first. His mother and brother ask her a lot of questions and it seems like she is connecting with both of them. His mother notes that she’s happy that Matt seems to be in a good place and has so much optimism.
Next up is Rachael. It’s such a strange place to see someone who from the beginning we liked for Matt - until we heard about a number of her problematic pictures in plantations. We definitely want to hear more when she’s on After the Rose. That aside for the moment, she gets a motherly grilling to find out more about her. Although John likes seeing his brother in a new light, he also grills her privately asking her about previous relationships and what she likes about Matt. Patty connects with Rachael and shares tears with her. It seems like Patty could go either way on the two women that are left.
After 2 great dates, his mom lets him know that although he can be in love with someone, does that mean that he should get engaged immediately? He’s left with doubts as they didn’t provide him the clarity that he was looking for. He decides to reach out to Chris Harrison and wants to figure out what he should do and how he should look at the task ahead of him. Once again, the idea of the conversation between him and Chris is ironic seeing that Chris’ position with the show seems to be on a bit of a pause. Chris seems to scoff a bit at the fact that Matt is thinking about what his mom told him. Chris asks him does he still want to get engaged and Matt seems to be pumping the breaks potentially on getting down on one knee. We can’t blame Chris for asking point blank, what he intends to do - Matt states that he still wants to be open and honest with both of them as they deserve that. He also still has a last date with each one of them.
Even though he is battling his own questions on what to do in the process, we join him on his date with Michelle. This will be the last time that they will be able to hang out with one another. Michelle is ready to “do the real world” with Matt. They end up on top of the resort looking down at their date spot which is on the ground. They will repel down the building to get there. They coach each other down the side of the building and thankfully, make it safely down without incident.
As they sit next to the outdoor fire, he asks her about how their talks went when she met his family. Matt lets her know that he wanted them to see who he met and the potential of her being in the group. Michelle asks will he be able to get to the point to make a decision. He tells her that he is thinking of everything that he needs to consider to make the best decision and the gravity of the choice that he makes. Matt realizes that Michelle is sure about where she wants to be and he knows that he isn’t which makes him feel conflicted.
Matt knows that he has to talk with Michelle so that he can ensure that he is making the right decision. Michelle lets him know that she came into the experience, looking for a teammate and that she is in love with him. She can’t imagine having anyone else in this experience with her. As he’s gifted Mr. and Mrs. James’ jersey’s from Michelle, he realizes that he needs to be upfront with her. He puts them to the side and she can tell that he’s thinking a lot about what is taking place for him in the next couple of days. He lets her know that he is having doubts and he knows that he shouldn’t have any. He tells her it’s the first thing he has ever felt that is different than what he has been feeling. She asks him to let him know what he wants - whether she should stop or fight for him and he says that he can’t get there with her. This is pretty heartbreaking and honestly, pretty cruel. Although he says it wasn’t a switch, she definitely got shocked with this news as he has never given her any other indication on what’s been on his mind - other then being in love with her. It seems like anytime he’s asked a serious question, he tends to tell the person that he’s not able to get there.
Chris meets up with him and says that he knows that breaking up with Michelle was tough. Matt admits that he loved her, but he wasn’t in love with her. He then thinks about Rachael and realizes that he’s not there with her either - he knows that he needs some time.
Rachael is excited about her date (obviously she has no clue about everything else that has happened) and hears a knock on the door. Chris is there and tells her that he was with Matt last night, that he was emotional and lost and that he needs some time. Chris tells her that there will be no date today. Without question, that’s a lot to process and leaves so many questions for her. She has been navigating her own emotions and there hasn’t been any indication that he would do something like this. We can definitely understand her feelings on this one. So, it looks like, she’ll have to wait until the next day - decision day - to see him.
The show continues on as he sits with Neil Lane to pick out a ring. Matt thinks by holding it, maybe he will be able to get there. Even Neil knows, there is only one woman left - he asks if Rachael is expecting a proposal. Matt says that what she expects is honesty. Neil feels that since he’s aware of where he is, there’s something in that and they can look at rings if he wants and if he opts to not do it, then that’s fine. Over the past few seasons, it’s been nice to see one of our favorite jewelers share stories about who he is and why these rings are so important.
Matt sends Rachael a note to let her know that he wants to meet her at the lake to give her answers. Matt arrives in a suit and Chris joins him. Matt still has uncertainty and feels heavy compared to what he thought he would be feeling going into it. He tells Chris that he loves her, smiles as he says it; however, he feels that it’s only when he sees her that it will all come together for him.
Rachael meets Matt and lets him know how she is feeling and where she’s at. She lets him know that she pictured this moment so differently - especially with him canceling their date. She lets him know that she hated not being able to be there with and for him. She assures him that she won’t run when it gets tough and she wants him to know that she is here and wants him to be happy.
Matt tells her that everything he wanted, he found with her. He tells her that rushing into an engagement is not what he wants to do. He says that he can’t propose to her today and that that doesn’t mean he doesn’t want to lose her. He wants to live the life he has imagined with her and for them to build on that and he tells her that he loves her. In terms of the finale, the decision has been made and it seems like they’re both happy and ready to continue their journey on their own terms.
AFTER THE ROSE
It feels like regardless of whatever took place during the season finale, that this is the main event where we hope to get a lot more answers that are in real-time as so many things took place socially outside of the show. Tonight’s episode is hosted by Emmanuel Acho who will surely talk about a number of the issues in and outside of the show in a frank and open way. In addition, we’ll see who will be The Bachelorette which is about to begin or just started production for the show which will drop this summer.
Emmanuel kicks off the show with Michelle as she walks us through the last hours of being with Matt and what it’s like to watch it back. She asked him to have 2 minutes to talk for closure and he refused to sit down and talk with her. That definitely seems like a Matt that we haven’t really seen before and is a bit shocking. Michelle explains that she’s hurt about the Antebellum pictures that Rachael participated in and that although she thinks that she’s a good person, she has a lot of learning to do. In terms of Chris’ support for Rachael and the way that he talked with Rachel Lindsay, she felt the weight and the exhaustion of those conversations and responses.
Matt comes out and lets Michelle know that he is still processing everything. She explains that he left without a word, producers were in her room and saw how she was hurting and she asked to see him for clarity and not to change his mind - she just wanted inner peace and he said no. He lets her know that he can’t justify why he did what he did although he didn’t know she was hurting (which we will call BS on that - she had no indication that he would dump her so of course you know she was hurt). Emmanuel asks about how she feels about Matt. She explains that she still cares for him and is not in love with him like she was on the show. We love the little burns that Michelle gave in terms of not closing his eyes when he kisses, telling people “thank you for sharing” and more. It was a bittersweet conversation, but one that covered the main points that took place between one another.
Emmanuel and Matt talk about what it’s like to be a Black person navigating what it’s like in terms of how you present yourself, speak etc. There is an awareness of your space and the fact that you may be interacting with people or be seen by those who are not used to being around Black people and there is a need to present your best self. As the first Black Bachelor, he felt the weight of that. Emmanuel then talks about Rachael and her social imagery that has resurfaced. Matt explains that at first he stood by her when it was in the rumor stage; however, once he realized that these incidents happened, he questioned how she could be with him as a Black man and not understand what those actions meant, even though it was 3 years ago. As they are no longer together, he looks forward to her doing the work and being where she needs to be. Emmanuel lets him know that he will talk with Rachael alone before the two of them get to see each other for the first time after their breakup.
Rachael explains that she didn’t think about how wearing the dresses could be an issue with Matt as a Black man. She explains that she is doing the work to understand and educate herself and ultimately to put it in action. Upon seeing Matt she explains that she loves him and understands how it would have been difficult to break up with her in light of what she actively participated in. It’s clear that they will not get back together again and whether Rachael truly understands the ramifications of what she did is still questionable.
The Bachelorette will have 2 separate seasons Katie will be in the first season this summer and then she will be followed by Michelle for the fall season! Now, we know that Kaitlyn Bristowe and Tayshia Adams will be the hosts - does that mean they will host it together or one will be attached to a dedicated season?
This season, we tweeted about The Bachelor (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to share reactions about what took place during the show.
We also suggest a podcast that we enjoy, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour which is hosted by Rachel Lindsay (contestant on The Bachelor Season 21; The Bachelorette Season 13) and co-hosted by Becca Kufrin (contestant on The Bachelor Season 22; The Bachelorette Season 14) to get their feedback throughout the season as well as insights into upcoming seasons!
LAST WEEK
Last week Michelle and Rachael advanced to the season finale.
THIS WEEK
This week, we got our answers. Matt chose Rachael on the finale. During the After the Rose Show, we found out that they are no longer together.
THE FINAL TWO
THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
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PHOTO COURTESY | ABC/The Bachelor
THE BACHELOR S25. E10. | IT'S FANTASY SUITES WEEK
If you have yet to see tonight’s 10th episode, spoilers are ahead! Tonight, we’re back to the show (there has been so much speculation since The Women’s Tell All as well as what is currently taking place in real time - for now, we’ll stay with the show) and we see the remaining 3 women: Bri, Rachael and Michelle as they all share their journey and being ready to be with Matt. From their individual insights, they all come together to do a general chat until they are interrupted by Chris Harrison who reminds them that they will have an amazing day and night with him along with the option to use a Fantasy Suite card on the overnight to do what they wish. He reminds them that it’s the time to really talk with Matt James. He leaves them a date card and first up is Michelle.
We join Matt as he grapples with how he was brought up and how it has informed how he been in relationships as well as have run from. He feels that in order to go forward and to understand what he needs to know, he needs to have an important conversation with his father who happens to be on his doorstep. Matt addresses that the lack of his father’s presence and his father creating additional families didn’t allow him to have conversations. He tries to talk with his father but he can’t have a real conversation that focuses on his father’s infidelity. His father explains that he didn’t have a dad when he grew up as he was killed at 5. He also explains that he doesn’t want to talk about his relationship with Matt’s mom and wants to only celebrate him. Matt says that he doesn’t want to be celebrated, he just wants to get closure and talk about what bothered him. With his father in denial, he finally agrees that he will try to be real with him and apologizes for hurting him. He wants to be better and to ensure that they are both in a healthy place. Matt realizes that because of this conversation, he is not like his father and he knows that one conversation will not make them better, but he feels that efforts will be made.
As Michelle and Matt embark on their date, he lets her know that there are doing a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch spa day! Neither are sure what that means, but they’re happy to do it together. Their spa day begins in an oatmeal soak for their feet. They have a large spa bed that has furs and hay on it where they have butter (that smells like a sugar cookie) along with branches that they can beat on one another. They also enjoy a milk bath in a large copper tub. It’s definitely a rustic space complete with a stuffed bear watching them. They reflect on the date as well as the Hometowns and what falling in love looks like and how you stay in love as dynamics change throughout the relationship. At dinner, Michelle kicks off this portion of the date letting Matt know that he can talk to her about anything. He lets her know that he has been trying to figure out why he is the way he is from not having a relationship, the insecurities and more. He tells her it stems from his parents as he has dealt with mistrust, hurt and more. He explains that he talked with his dad and let him know that he wants to be the man that his father wasn’t. That one exchange has allowed him to be ready and present so that he can continue on his journey. She puts herself out there so that he knows that she wants to be there for him. They take the Fantasy Suite key to continue the night and she tells him that she loves him.
Of course, we see Bri and Rachael and we can tell that Rachael is really starting to be a bit crazed over what’s taking place as Michelle’s date continues into the Fantasy Suite time slot. She hopes (as she leaves her date), that she really will get to be with him. Matt feels that their relationship just works and she has set the bar and will be tough to beat when it comes to his next two dates.
Michelle shares the details of her date and you can see Rachael kind of spiraling and she lets them know that she can see that they are struggling. Bri has a bit of tug of war between being excited to see Matt while being frustrated. She’s also jealous, hurt and excited. Bri leaves to get ready, but the mood seems a bit somber.
Bri’s date involves hiking through the woods with a large bundled pack on their backs. They will be camping in the woods and they reach their campsite and will pitch a tent. Bri doesn’t know that he has never camped. Bre realizes that both of her 1-on-1 dates have been outside and she’s not an outdoor person. They successfully set their tent up and hang out in their awhile. She tells him that seeing Michelle come back from her date, she didn’t realize how hard that would hit her; however, she knows that that means that she really likes him.
They leave the campsite for a proper sit-down dinner. They talk about their date and how it was fun even if she thought that she would have never done that. They talk about her Hometown and how he is excited for her to meet his family. She also wants to know where he is in terms of thinking about being engaged. he lets her know about him and his dad as well as their recent conversation. As they continue to talk, Bri lets him know that she loves him and they use the Fantasy Suite key so that she can have uninterrupted time with him to talk more with him. It’s always great to see that all the dates and suites are different from one another so that the experience is dedicated to each person.
Bri is someone that we liked from the first second that she came out of the limo. Seeing them make breakfast together definitely showed how well they meshed together.
As we get back to the women, once again, Rachael is very down in the mouth and Bri is literally glowing. I like how this season’s group is being tasteful about their date experiences. Rachael has really taken this so hard and it always makes us wonder why one would sign up to this show and not think about the fact that they could be in this situation?
Rachael’s date begins and she looks so dejected and down. Matt is trying to make her happy as they enter the ceramic portion of the date. The teacher lets them know that making something on the wheel is like a relationship and of course, it’s an allegory of how she has been feeling. She’s beating herself up and asks him to talk with her. She tells him that the week had been unbearable for her as she sees him as her future husband and then she knows that he spent intimate time with other people. It made her feel low and she understands that he had to look into all of the relationships so he can be confident on what’s going on. She says that she’s been getting in her head and she doesn’t know how she would feel losing him. One thing that we appreciate about Matt is that he’s always ready for conversations whenever it’s time to have them. He lets her know again that when he’s there with her, he’s there with her. He talks about what happened during the skydiving date and that her accident made him wonder what would he do if she wasn’t there. She’s happy and lets him know she loves him. The two make a piece of pottery together Ghost style.
The date continues as they’re dressed for dinner or drinks. They continue to talk as Matt once again talks about his dad and the conversation that they had. Of course, they use the Fantasy Suite so that she can get to know him more and wake up with him the next day.
The ladies assemble at the rose ceremony. Matt gives a rose to Michelle first and the final rose goes to Rachael. We really wanted to see Bri in the final two especially with all the conversation that has taken place outside of the show.
Each night, we’ll tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
As Hometowns already took place, we’ll continue to say who we think should take it all.
We also suggest a podcast that we’re newly obsessed with, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour which is hosted by Rachel Lindsay (contestant on The Bachelor Season 21; The Bachelorette Season 13) and co-hosted by Becca Kufrin (contestant on The Bachelor Season 22; The Bachelorette Season 14) to get their feedback!
LAST WEEK
Last week we felt that Abigail, Bri, Jessenia and Rachel are moving forward to Hometowns.
THIS WEEK
Well, this week definitely had a bit of drama sprinkled throughout and for those that have watched the drama unfold outside of what’s going on in the house, it’s interesting to see what future Bachelor/Bachelorette seasons will look like. As that unfolds, here is who will be going into Hometowns. Pretty early on we predicted that Rachel would be in this group.
THE FINAL TWO
THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
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PHOTO COURTESY | ABC/The Bachelor
THE BACHELOR S25. E9. | THE WOMEN'S TELL ALL
If you have yet to see tonight’s 9th episode, spoilers are ahead! Tonight is the Women’s Tell All where we see all the women who competed minus those that are still on their journey. Watching this episode which was taped a few weeks ago, makes you think about so many things that have taken place since the episodes have aired. This includes Chris Harrison stepping down for a period of time and with a new host being named for The Bachelor: After The Final Rose show that immediately follows after the finale, author Emmanuel Acho a former linebacker for the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles and an analyst for Fox Sports 1.
Of course, going back to the actual episode, we have to say that this is a very uncomfortable tell-all that seems to leave Chris throwing a question in and allowing the women to take it in a number of directions without him drilling down on the issues. Brittany comes to the hot seat and is able to share how her experience was peppered with the rumors of her being an escort in addition to her being in the second group that was brought into the house. Once again, this stirs up a lot of issues that were left unresolved, additional apologies and continued hurt feelings.
With so many hot button issues going on, we can appreciate how they always add a bit of levity. Seeing the dates that didn’t air was a cool way to see other things that took place that maybe wouldn’t have worked in the episodes. They should share more of these kinds of things just like they do with the bloopers.
Next up in the hot seat (and previously rumored to be the next Bachelorette - which seems to not be happening) is Katie. Katie came into the house with a dildo and later became someone who would not only call people out when they crossed the line, but she would also give Matt a heads up on what was happening while leaving him to find the details out for himself. We thought that she would go the distance, bu that didn’t happen.
Abigail is up next and is another one that we loved watching and hoped that she would get the chance to Hometowns. Although we saw a bit of magic between them, it seems that Matt just couldn’t get there completely. It’s always hard watching the women looking back on their stories and seeing the bittersweet look on their faces and then the moment that they are sent home. What we thought was interesting to hear about Abigail is that although she is Deaf, she represents an interesting section of the community as she was born profoundly deaf and wears a cochlear implant. If she is not wearing it, she is unable to hear. At the same time, because of the implant and because she can read lips, she also doesn’t use sign language. As she states in the tell all, she feels that she is in the grey area and wondered how she would be received. It’s her vulnerabilities and her ability to put herself out there that is why we enjoyed having her there.
Pieper left right before Hometowns and she was someone else that we enjoyed seeing. We thought that her and Matt had clicked; however, we felt our hearts twinge listening to her in the car as she was driven away. Even during the Tell All, you can see that she is still grappling with her emotions.
The much-anticipated interview with Serena P has finally arrived. She admits that she thought at many points that it would be her and Matt; however, she is still sticking by the fact that they weren’t a fit ultimately. We think that when the Tantric Yoga date happened that that started making her think that she wasn’t ready of course along with her family meeting him and their comments to her - combined, it seems to have culminated in the end of their relationship. She’s flooded with emotions watching the end of their relationship as it’s the first time that she had seen the footage. She explains that going into Hometowns, she was feeling great and thought that she would get the assurance that she needed from her family. The lack of getting that affirmation made her really reflect on what was going on and brought clarity that she wasn’t expecting. Chris asks her if she is conflicted because to him, it seems like she is. She explains that she still cares for him and didn’t want to lose him and she didn’t want to hurt him either. She feels that if she stayed, she would have been doing a bigger disservice because she was not 100% there.
Matt James finally joins the show with a beard. It’s interesting to think about the fact that Matt had never been on the show, so he didn’t really have a point of reference to what being The Bachelor would be like. He talks with Victoria on saying that he thinks she’s a good person even if she was involved in drama, he talks with Katie and lets her know that he is appreciative that she was courageous in letting him know what was going on in the house. Chris brings in the levity again and says that he notices that Matt likes to keep his eyes open when he’s kissing. Matt says he didn’t really know that he did that; however, he likes to be able to see them up close. Now seeing himself during the show, he can see why one should keep their eyes closed.
Matt provides closure with Abigail and Pieper. Chris asks Matt what he thinks about Serena P. He shares that it was hard for him, but that he understood if she didn’t want him, he hoped that she would be closer to finding the person that would be. Just in case it got a little heavy, Chris ended with some Bloopers that were probably the best that we have seen across various Bachelor seasons.
Each night, we’ll tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Hometowns tooks place last week; however, we’ll continue to say who we think should take it all.
We also suggest a podcast that we’re newly obsessed with, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour which is hosted by Rachel Lindsay (contestant on The Bachelor Season 21; The Bachelorette Season 13) and co-hosted by Becca Kufrin (contestant on The Bachelor Season 22; The Bachelorette Season 14) to get their feedback!
LAST WEEK
Last week we felt that Abigail, Bri, Jessenia and Rachel are moving forward to Hometowns.
THIS WEEK
Well, this week definitely had a bit of drama sprinkled throughout and for those that have watched the drama unfold outside of what’s going on in the house, it’s interesting to see what future Bachelor/Bachelorette seasons will look like. As that unfolds, here is who will be going into Hometowns. Pretty early on we predicted that Rachel would be in this group.
TODAY’S HOMETOWNS
THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS
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PHOTO COURTESY | ABC/The Bachelor
THE BACHELOR S25. E8. | IT'S HOMETOWNS WEEK
If you have yet to see tonight’s 8th episode, spoilers are ahead! We start off tonight’s The Bachelor episode with Chris Harrison talking with the women and letting them know that their families are on site as we are living in extraordinary times. He lets them know who will be there for each contestant. We kick off the show with Matt James working out in prep for this big week. Michelle is up first with her date and family who is from Minnesota. We always like seeing how the dates incorporate their hometowns since they can’t be there. Michelle’s date is a bike ride which is something that her family usually does at night. They continue their date going to her “classroom” where her students are Zoomed in. Seeing Ms. Young’s class and hearing the questions that they have for Mr. James is pretty cute. The cutest part is when he’s asked if they have kissed and he says that they are at the part of just holding hands which is when you know that you really like someone. The questions are pretty tough and it’s nice to see the bond that she has with her students.
Matt meets Michelle’s parents and they catch them up on their journey since Michelle arrived 2 episodes in during a rose ceremony. Michelle chats with her father and he definitely seems like he understands that she is in love with him. When he meets Matt, he tells him that he would be supportive of whatever Michelle wants. Michelle then talks with her mom and lets her know that she has never felt like this before. It’s clear that Michelle had a bad relationship and that her parents rallied around her during that dark time. Seeing him play basketball with her, her mom and dad - was pretty cute. Before Matt heads back to his place, she lets him know that she is falling in love with him, especially after seeing him around her parents.
Next up is Rachael. It’s been tough to watch her interact with Matt as they obviously have great chemistry, but in light of some of the things that have been revealed about her leaves us with so many questions. He hops in her car, she blindfolds him and takes him to a plane where they will go skydiving. Although they have a great time, Rachael crashes into the ground, although she is ok, you can see his concern for her.
We can see that her family feels that there shouldn’t be a rush when it comes to them being together as they feel that this is so soon. Her dad let him know that he felt that it’s strange that they could see that they are ready to take such a big leap. Matt tells her that he had a great chat with her dad, but he didn’t ask for her hand because he didn’t want to do it to “check a box.” If he ends up getting to that point, he lets Rachael know that he will call her father and ask, but there’s no way that he would ask him when there are other women still involved. Although Rachael is bummed about this, we think it’s really the best way to go about something like this.
The next date is with Bri. They enjoy a day of off roading. Matt meets her family which includes her mom, best friend and her baby sister. Although her mom asks the tough questions, Bri hears her mom tell her that she needs to be vulnerable and honest so that he knows where she is at. Bri tells him that she is falling in love with him.
The final Hometown date is with Serena who brings Canada to him by sharing things that he needs to know. She asks him to find where she is from on the map, he learns words and terms that are Canadian and she introduces him to Canadian delicacies. They share poutine, beaver tails, desserts and more. They even play hockey together wearing Canadian jerseys.
Matt and Serena walks through the door and we definitely love seeing her family! They’re all sweet, grounded and have a great sense of humor. Serena’s sister tells her that there is something missing and she thinks that it’s because she is in her own head. When she talks with Matt, she tells him that she is grappling with a lot and he lets her know that that’s ok as he has been there too. She doesn’t tell him anything else and he has now completed all of the Hometown dates. She does know that she’s not there yet and she was hopeful that the dates would have confirmed it.
Next week will be the Women’s Tell All so we’ll get to hear more about everything that happened in the house and even outside of it for the women who are no longer on the journey to Matt’s heart. She goes home and Matt gives roses to the 3 remaining women.
Each night, we’ll tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
We’ll continue to loop you in on who we think should take it all.
We also suggest a podcast that we’re newly obsessed with, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour which is hosted by Rachel Lindsay (contestant on The Bachelor Season 21; The Bachelorette Season 13) and co-hosted by Becca Kufrin (contestant on The Bachelor Season 22; The Bachelorette Season 14) to get their feedback!
LAST WEEK
Last week we felt that Abigail, Bri, Jessenia and Rachel are moving forward to Hometowns.
THIS WEEK
Well, this week definitely had a bit of drama sprinkled throughout and for those that have watched the drama unfold outside of what’s going on in the house, it’s interesting to see what future Bachelor/Bachelorette seasons will look like. As that unfolds, here is who will be going into Hometowns. Pretty early on we predicted that Rachel would be in this group.
TODAY’S HOMETOWNS
THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS
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THE BACHELOR S25. E7. | THE FIRING SQUAD UNITES
If you have yet to see tonight’s 7th episode, spoilers are ahead! We start off tonight’s The Bachelor episode with the girls meeting Heather. Although Matt is thinking about whether she can come in or not, the contestants let her know that she’s not welcome and that she’s just here for getting on TV. She tries to explain that after hearing so much about him that she was intrigued to meet him. We wonder where this will go because the girls are bullying her which is exactly what Matt James wouldn’t want them to do. He talks with Chris Harrison to let him know that he needs some time to figure it out. The women as a group feel that they need their time with him and are tired of the weekly drama that is happening.
Although he recognizes that Hannah would only pick someone that would be an ideal fit for him, he feels that with Hometowns being a week away, he needs to focus on the women he is already falling in love with. Heather is sad, but she also understands and honestly, it was pretty standup of her to not talk about the actions of the other women who clearly made her feel unwelcome.
Matt goes to the women and lets them know that he only wants to be with the women that are on the couch and apologizes for the interruption and even picks up the conversation with Pieper that was interrupted by Heather.
It’s another rose ceremony, the girls are complimented for how they handled Heather’s interruption (although they didn’t reveal how they really treated her). Ultimately, Bri, Rachel, Serena P (we will now just refer to her Serena going forward), Kit, Jessenia, Abigail, Pieper and Michelle. Matt sends Chelsea and Serena C (Serena P will now be known simply as Serena) home.
There are 2 1-on-1 dates and a group date. Chris delivers the date card (Abigail and Jessenia are the only ones that have yet to have a 1-on-1 date. The date card goes to Serena P for the 1-on-1 date and she’s excited to get time with him - which she has had one already. Matt wants to see where his relationship is with Serena is and their date involves tantric yoga. We get to check out another great area of the Nemacolin property. Serena says that she wouldn’t have picked this date as it’s a lot of sexual positions and she is a bit off-put by it. She admits that she is not an overly sexual person and especially not in public.
As their date continues, the next date card has Pieper, Michelle, Rachel, Bri, Kit and Abigail as the group date. Jessenia will be the 1-on-1 date and she finally gets some time. Back on Serena’s date, they continue to bond over dinner and he encourages him to be honest and tell her what she thinks whether she likes something or doesn’t. Matt gives Serena the rose and she is officially going to Hometowns and is looking forward to her family meeting him.
The group date begins and Matt notes that it’s their last group date and he wants them to bring their best selves and to address everything. He gets time with each woman and it’s Abigail who asks him point blank if he can envision himself with her. She understands that he may not be able to go into detail, but she wants to know. He lets her know that he was attracted to her on the first night which is why she got the first impression rose. He says that in knowing her, he also got to know the other women as well and that he has moved onto others and he doesn’t want to lead her on. She appreciates his honesty, he apologizes and he walks Abigail out! We’re sad that we won’t be able to get to see her, but we could also see that he had cooled off. We can appreciate that she stuck up for herself by asking him for the truth.
He lets the women know that he sent Abigail home and although he didn’t think their conversation would lead to her exit, he wants to focus on those that he thinks will be on the journey. He asks to speak with Rachel. Outside of The Bachelor, avid followers have been aware or have recently followed up on problematic items that have popped into her social media. Whether this plays out this episode or season, has yet to be seen. It’s clear that he still enjoys being around Rachel and that she will definitely continue on into Hometowns.
Kit chats with Matt and lets him know that she wants to finish school, travel, figure out her career path and being able to travel. She lets him know that being married and having children would be something that would be down the road, She could envision having kids at 25/26 and calls herself a, “longterm investment.” Being able to state your truth and what you want is essential and Matt was onboard.
The rose from the group date goes to Rachel. In addition to getting it, he also has something planned for her - a serenade and dance moment with Aloe Blacc. Kit looks so upset as she felt that they had definitely connected. She’s not sure how much longer she can continue with the highs and lows of trying to be on the journey with Matt. Matt seems pretty happy as he’s thinking about everything that has gone on. Kit shows up at his place and lets him know that she has let his guard down for him and that she thought that she had clarity in her decision. Since she doesn’t have that clarity, she lets him know that it’s not her. He tells her that he wants her there; however, she feels that he deserves more and that she is unwavering in her decision. Kit has fallen in love with him, but she has seeds of doubt.
As the girls grapple with Abigail being sent home and Kit deciding to leave, Jessenia’s 1-on-1 date takes place where they learn drifting by a pro who knows a thing or two about this! We’ve always loved the idea of Jessenia and Matt together and hope she gets a chance of Hometowns with him. Jessenia lays her feelings on the table; however, Matt feels that they are not on the same page. As he picks up the rose, he tells her that there needs to be tangible love that goes to an engagement and tells her that he is not there. Because he knows she deserves unwavering love and respect, he can’t give her the rose. Although she feels blindsided, the grace that she has in accepting what happened really shows the kind of person that she is.
There are only 2 roses left. Pieper, Michelle (the only remaining contestant from the second set of women that arrives) and Bri are looking for a rose and Rachel and Serena have theirs. Hometowns is literally taking place next week and everyone wonders what he’s thinking. Who are the 2 women that will get to continue the journey?
Matt says Bri, who we have liked from the very beginning. This leaves Michell and Pieper for the final rose. Ultimately, he gives Michelle the rose! Pieper is going home. Although Pieper hugs the other women to say her goodbyes, she doesn’t even walk forward to Matt. He asks if she can walk her out and she doesn’t even talk to him. The 4 women going to Hometowns include Serena, Bri, Michelle and Rachel. The women are so excited and we’re looking forward to hear what the family’s think.
Each night, we’ll tweet about The Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns if we were choosing right now! We will also say who we think should take it all.
We also suggest a podcast that we’re newly obsessed with, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour which is hosted by Rachel Lindsay (contestant on The Bachelor Season 21; The Bachelorette Season 13) and co-hosted by Becca Kufrin (contestant on The Bachelor Season 22; The Bachelorette Season 14) to get their feedback!
LAST WEEK
Last week we felt that Abigail, Bri, Jessenia and Rachel are moving forward to Hometowns.
THIS WEEK
Well, this week definitely had a bit of drama sprinkled throughout and for those that have watched the drama unfold outside of what’s going on in the house, it’s interesting to see what future Bachelor/Bachelorette seasons will look like. As that unfolds, here is who will be going into Hometowns. Pretty early on we predicted that Rachel would be in this group.
THEY’RE GOING TO HOMETOWNS
THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
Featured TV Show