Say Yes to What’s Next: How to Age with Elegance and Class While Never Losing Your Beauty and Sass!

by Lori Allen

Lori Allen helps women rediscover their worth as she encourages them to age well with style and sass.

Women today are facing so much uncertainty—about life and the future. For Lori Allen, business owner, breast cancer survivor, and star of TLC’s Say Yes to the Atlanta, her advice stems from the ups and downs of her personal from building one of the biggest and busiest bridal megasalons in the country to navigating her position in the sandwich generation and caring for a husband battling cancer during her own breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

In Say Yes to What’s Next, Lori addresses crucial issues, such as how

Pivot, embrace the unexpected, and live out your passionPractice essential self-care that enriches your mind, body, and spiritMake space for yourself and your priorities while still being a caring partner, parent, and friendMaintain a close circle of friends at every age and stage of lifeTake charge of your money and attain financial freedom and securitySay Yes to What’s Next is more than just a guide for our best tomorrows, it’s the beginning of a life-makeover movement for women of all ages.Whether you’re feeling invisible, ignored, or like your voice doesn’t matter, or you’re simply uncertain about what’s next, Lori offers advice on what to do, what not do, and how to see your way through the unexpected.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Self Help, Autobiography, Fashion, Womens, Audiobook

222 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 14, 2020

Reviews

[Nursebookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!

You might be familiar with Lori Allen as the star of the hit series, “SAY YES TO THE DRESS: ATLANTA” and now she is back with this self-help, personal growth and self-esteem book called, ‪Say Yes to What’s Next: How to Age with Elegance and Class While Never Losing Your Beauty and Sass!‬

During this pandemic when taking care of ourselves may have not been a priority, Allen shares how important self care is.

For me, I enjoyed that chapter, ‘Self Care is the New Black’ the most, since it really resonated with me. As a mother and a nurse, it is second nature to me as a caregiver to prioritize others first. My husband, my children, and my patients are my priorities and always will be. She offered sound advise on how to normalize self care in our daily routine.

Allen offers a “Girlfriends’ Guide” at the end of every chapter. It highlights and focuses on the important stuff like not putting our health on the back burner, addressing PMS (no, not that one - The Physical, Mental and Spiritual Health one), friendships, finances, the importance of giving back, and so much more.

I found the writing pleasant, easy to read, funny with great anecdotes throughout, yet never preachy. This southern belle delivered thoughtful advise that anyone at any age would relate to.

This would make for a lovely gift and this book is available now.

[Caroline David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lori Allen is an absolute doll. As a young woman, I wasn’t sure if I would connect with the book as it refers to “aging” which is normally the target demographic of a middle-aged lady. However, these were life lessons. With her sweet sense of humor and ladylike manners, Lori gives us insight and stories behind the advice she gives. It was wonderful to feel so connected to someone you see on TV and admire. She’s just a down home, good old Southern belle with loads of hilarious anecdotes and thoughtful advice.

[Kris (My Novelesque Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

RATING: 4 STARS
2020; Thomas Nelson/HarperCollins

I enjoy watching Say Yes to the Dress, but I LOVE Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta. I even watched the Bridesmaid version, even though Lori wasn't on it as much. Lori has great presence on screen, one that is of a straight shooter, but also compassionate with the brides. The way she stands up for them, really draws me to the show. Her friendship with Monte, and Monte himself, enhance the experience. The chemistry between the two is real and their friendship is one that most strive for. I also like Flo, Robin, and everyone else that woks there. It really has a family feel. If I had a wedding and the money, I would want to go to Bridals by Lori. I just love that family feel, with southern sass. If there was ever a movie based on the Lori's life I can see Reese Witherspoon or Miranda Lambert in the main role.

I remember when Lori revealed she had breast cancer, it was difficult to hear. Lori has always made the audience feel like they are part of her life. I watched the special episode of what she went through and it was great to see her share her experience. I wondered if she would ever write about her experience, and low and behold she has! As soon as I saw this was available for request on Edelweiss, I clicked on "request" a few times out of excitement. Then I saw that Lori was the narrator for the audiobook so I decided to wait till my library got it. It was around this time, NetGalley decided launch an audiobook option, and YAY this was available for request. THANK YOU, Thomas & Nelson (HarperCollins) for approving this request and making my day.

Today at work, I finished my audiobook and needed something different. I remembered I still had to listen to this book so I decided to try it. Reading/listening to this memoir/self-help book was like reading a Fannie Flagg book. It is SO southern in all the good ways. While Lori talks about her personal life, this isn't a biography in any sense. After surviving cancer and a bad fall, Lori started to get a new attitude about life. Just because she is now 60, does not mean she needs to retire and retreat from life. In fact, this is a great time to plan the second part of your life - she uses a cookie as an analogy. She goes on to highlight how we can make the most of our life. Self-care is not about indulging in selfishness, but taking care of ourselves and being the best we can be. Lori gives advice on several issues, and a lot of it is for women in their 60s and 70s. Yet, like Nora Ephron's I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman, I related well to this book (and I am in my 40s, and 20/30s for Ephron's). For me, it's like having an older friend share her life experiences in order to give you insight. And, some of the chapters, like aging parents, apply to me at my current age. It's a fun comforting read. If you have seen Lori's show, that's what you get in this book. If you haven't, maybe try the audiobook and see if she is your cup of sweet tea.

***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook and audiobook from the publisher through Edelweiss/NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***

[Jess Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Say Yes to What’s Next is a book that offers advice and life lessons to live your best life, no matter your age! This book is a memoir with tips to learn how to grow and learn, and not be afraid of change. This book touches on so many topics. It touches on self care, health, beauty, clothing, finances, relationships, family, and so much more. Lori Allen truly put her heart and soul into this book. There is also a “Girlfriends Guide” at the end of each chapter, that breaks down the main points from that chapter.

This was such an amazing book! At first I was worried I wouldn’t connect with this book, since I am not part of the “targeted” audience. But, I am so glad I ended up reading it still! There was some wonderful and practical advice that I am able to put it to use in the future! Lori is so honest in this book, and tells things as they really are. I also loved that she narrated the audio for this book. I think this is a great book for all woman to read. I would highly recommend it!

Thank you so much TLC Book Tours for providing me with a free copy of this book and including me on your book tour. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rebekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good! Fast 200 pages! Her advice was great! Love her sass! It was encouraging, motivating, and helpful to hear her advice! For a 20 some year old it was very good!

[Living My Best Book Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

Say Yes to What's Next is an honest and easy read by Lori Allen that offers advice and life lessons to live your best life no matter your age!

I love Lori Allen! I have watched her help brides find their perfect wedding dress on 'Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta' for years. She adds her signature humor, sass, and class to this book. You can expect heartfelt and truthful chapters along with a 'Girlfriend's Guide' that breaks every chapter down with the main points of the chapter.

This book is a memoir with life tips to help readers grow and learn to not be afraid of change. I loved that she was so open when it came to her personal and professional life. She talked about her battle with cancer, her struggles with aging, and gives some pretty great advice along the way. I feel like this book can help any woman because as we age I feel like we all deal with struggles with our appearance, emotions, health (both physical and mental), and our self-confidence. Through sharing her experiences she details how she felt and how/what she had to do to feel more like herself again.

I give Say Yes to What's Next 5 stars. Readers can expect Lori's Southern charm and class the entire book. She tells it like it is and gives you tools that she has learned along the way. Out of all the life lessons and advice she gives throughout the book she just wants readers to never be afraid to be who they are no matter what age you are.

[Ashley Fuhr · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to start by saying I love Lori Allen!

Maybe it’s because I still have 3 small children running around my home, but this book just didn’t land for me like I thought it would. I craved to see the real yet down to earth, Lori that we all love. While I think we definitely saw parts of her, I felt like the made for TV persona would drop in at the most inconvenient times. Parts of this book felt gimmicky to me.

Things I didn’t love:
How it felt like she was throwing her DIL under the bus without really saying it. Be for her, or don’t.
How she played off her faults as “Well it’s just how I am, and I’m not going to change” instead of trying to discuss becoming better for those around her (this is where I felt the gimmicky side crept in).
The fine line between self-centeredness and self-love. There were times I felt as though she promoted more of a selfishness mentality than the selfless one required of our faith.

Things I adored:
Well, Lori, of course! I listened to this book on audio, and I am SO GLAD Lori narrated it. You really got a feel for her intended prose, personality, and wit. This was part of what made the book so good.
The honesty. Lori is known for her honesty, and it was on full display here. While I felt as though she used it at the expense of others in some parts, her overall willingness to share the nitty gritty of what many are not was refreshing.
Her commitment. Whether that be to her husband, her business, or the care of her family, there is no doubt that Lori is dedicated and doesn’t believe in giving up.
THE ONE IN EIGHT CHAPTER! Ok, full disclosure, I lost my aunt to breast cancer and have spent the last 7 or so years raising thousands or breast cancer research and community programs. Breast cancer stories get me every time. That being said, the rawness with which Lori shared her breast cancer journey made this book a winner. I will buy it for others, simply for the gem that is found in that one chapter. I wish the entire book had been written about Lori’s cancer journey (and beyond) and in the vulnerable way in which she relayed it to us. THIS was the Lori I read the book to know. It was real and it was powerful.

I received this audiobook book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Jayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

SAY YES TO THIS BOOK!

Move over girlfriend, you're going to love Lori Allen's signature sass and class, backstory, advice, and positive messaging about living your best life, no matter your age.  

I listened to the book's audio version, and Lori Allen's narration was outstanding, making this a  "must-read"/"must-listen-to" book.

OMG....I almost did not listen to this book for two reasons:
1) Since I never watched SAY YES TO THE DRESS: ATLANTA, I did not know if I could relate to Lori's story, nor did I know what to expect.  Fortunately, from the very first chapter, I connected with Lori's dynamic personality and wit and was instantly hooked.
2) Even though I am "over 50", I was not sure if I wanted to read ANOTHER  "What Happens After Age 50" book.   Lori's book, however, is definitely not the "same old, same old" (no pun intended!) and I was very glad that I made the decision to move forward. 

I especially loved this book because it made me laugh and cry.  Lori's honesty about her successes and challenges in life was very inspirational.  As a breast cancer survivor, I felt Lori's pain when she received her diagnosis and admired (and shared!) her determination to beat the disease.  And as a self-employed working mom,  I was also able to relate to the many "blips in the road" that Lori experienced on her road to success and truly admired her determination, persistence, resilience.

I am the mother of 4 boys and the funny "Wear Beige and Keep Your Mouth Shut" advice for mothers-of-the-groom that Lori shared with readers kept me laughing for days. Lori is right....being mother-of-the-groom is a very, very different experience than being the mother-of-the-bride!  Just like Lori, I love bright colors and have a very difficult time keeping my mouth shut but I did realize the importance of keeping quiet when my sons' weddings were being planned.   BTW, there were sooo many good "Southern" lines in this book and because I was listening to the book on audio, I was not able to capture (and remember!) them all. 

I am usually very stingy with my 5-star ratings, but Lori Allen earned this one!   Thank you, Lori, for this fabulous book.   And thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC, in exchange for an honest review.

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perhaps you were brought up to think women were not supposed to get involved in household finance, that money was a man's domain. That attitude was common enough back in the day, but it went out with Brittany Spears' cutesy pigtails, or it should have. And for the same reason. It was never a good look for you or for any grown woman. It's also wrong. Guys are not inherently better at money management than we are. There are no finance genes and they don't hang out on the Y chromosome. Money savvy isn't male or female. It just is.

Y'all, I'm a recovering Texan, and I can't talk to anyone after listening to Lori and her Georgia accent or they will be asking me "girl, where you from?" (It happens when I talk to my cousin, even though I "lost" my accent a LOT of years ago.)

Go with fewer clothes, better clothes: If the clothes you're weeding out of your closet (and you are weeding out your wardrobe, aren't you) are primarily inexpensive faddish pieces whose time has come and gone, rethink how you shop.

I used to watch all the HGTV, all the Say Yes shows, all the Lori and Monte, so I was thrilled to get the audio of this book from netgalley, narrated by Lori herself. This is a mixture of autobiography and self-help. Like a true Southern lady, Lori tells it like it is without being mean-spirited. She tells us about her struggles with her business and with breast cancer, as well as her successful marriage and relationships with friends and family. She sprinkles some applicable Bible verses throughout without preaching religion.

Self care isn't something you do. It's a collection of habits that become routine.

I'm not quite in the target age group for this book, but found that some advice was universal (don't let yourself go and maintain a group of friends) and really important (take care of your health and take charge of your finances.) There were some generalizations and things that I didn't love but couldn't fault her for. For example, something about her relationship with her DIL rubbed at me, but as someone who had a terribly presumptuous manipulative interfering MIL, I'd rather see women err on Lori's side than the "I'm just helping" by messing up all your stuff side.

Having a husband is not the same as having a financial plan.

I'm in financial planning, so I'm always worried what kind of financial advice someone is going to give. Lori does a good job in the "Girls Just Want to Have Funds" section. She doesn't try to cover it all (who could in a chapter) but gets the message across that I wish every woman would hear.

Stepping in to your big girl panties is never easy...It's common for women...to admit that they know nothing about finance. What's disappointing is how many are still disinclined to learn. I hear women say, "I'm just not good with money." As if that's an incurable permanent condition, like herpes? Why would you be okay with remaining deliberately ignorant about something so important? Why would you be content with being illiterate forever, blowing it off because you've decided that you're not good at reading?

Even if you don't know who Lori Allen is, she will give you some laughs and tears in this audiobook.

[Miranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this from GoodReads otherwise I wouldn't have even know about it - I have never seen "Yes to the Dress" and did not know who Lori Allen was but I was intrigued by the title....
At first I was all in thinking this was a wonderful book and women of all ages should read it ASAP but then I started to notice contradictions - while it was supposed to be about being confident and owning who you are they then started to say what you should never wear and what "no one looks good in" --- to me that is against what you were just preaching and I think if you feel good in it and love it WEAR It and the whole point is to support and uplift others so let them wear what they want it doesn't hurt you! The other part that really got me and almost made me put the book down and tap out was the section on adult parents and "your role as a child" how you "MUST honor them" which is not a recommendation but a must per the Bible.... okay okay okay... I cannot with this general demands and expectations for all - I cannot with the 'because the Bible said so" .. really if the child's parents were abusive or raped the child you are still going to tell me that they must care for their aging parent and they must help them and support them???? It doesn't even have to be that extreme some parents are TOXIC and it has taken a lot of work and healing for their children to work with this and understand this and set boundaries... NO ONE can tell you what to do and what you should do... i hate this society says approach --- not long ago society said women should only be cooking, cleaning, and having babies...look at the way "our society" has treated minorities, other genders, other sexual orientations, etc... clearly society doesnt always have it right... I thought she was going to save herself saying " I know not all relationships are good" but no she went right on telling you have you must honor them --another thought "honor" does not mean put your self, your family , your family finances etc at risk because your parents didn't plan or didn't care or are now putting their care on you - again everyone has different experiences, different needs and no one solution works for everyone and I think it is wrong to shame people or add more expectation when you have no idea and you clearly likely have very different resources (ie money) than others which helps you provide care and support to your aging parent because we all know it is COSTLY. This should also bring attention to the way our society and health care treats elderly you either have a horrible short staffed facility or you are paying 8000 plus a month for care and housing... it is a mess. Anyway I digress- I just didnt like that it seemed to be all about uplifting and supporting but was also judgmental and bias on some topics. I still gave it a four because those points aside it had some good points and tips... still worth a read especially if you have have a good relationship with your parent(s) and would not be as frustrated by the things that I was.

[wellreadtraveler · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’ve all heard of the hit TV show Say Yes To The Dress on TLC. I’ve caught myself watching it many times even though I am not in the market for bridal shopping. It’s just a guilty pleasure to see these girls searching for their perfect dream dress, and watch the staff jump through hoops to make it happen. So when I heard about this book I thought for sure it would be all about the show and Lori’s bridal shop, how it came to be, and the daily grind of working with bridezillas. I would’ve expected that, but what I didn’t expect is that this book is about so much more! “How to age with Elegance and class while never losing your beauty and sass.” Despite my want to never grow older its happening and I really loved the author’s suggestions.
First let me say this, I want to be best friends with Lori Allen. She has a mix of sophistication and brattiness that just jumped off the pages. Her amazing tips on caring for your body/mind/spirit and always doing what you can to look and feel your best were helpful. I loved her tell it like it is honesty about what happens to woman as they age and how we don’t have to take it! Modern medicine has come up with ways to help us look our best so why not take advantage. Best advice? Ladies if you see another woman who has had work done don’t be “catty and behind the back nasty.” I love this, Lori suggests instead we cheer each other on and encourage each other on our journey. You’ll find so much advice on topics such as;
Friendship, Taking care of elderly parents, marriage and all the challenges and rewards it brings, being a good mother in law and dealing with a difficult one, family holidays, I mean I could go on and on. Lori also shares her personal journey navigating breast cancer and everything that comes with the diagnosis. I think the biggest take away is reading Say Yes To What’s Next is like a conversation with your best girlfriend. It’s funny and full of honesty and at times advice that you might not want to hear but know you need to.

[Cassie | idahogirlreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lori Allen’s book is part memoir, part advice book. She covers events and topics in her life ranging from breast cancer, her marriage, her store, her kids’ marriages, starting up her business in Atlanta, and being on Say Yes To The Dress. She takes the life she’s lived and turns her lessons and wisdom into advice for readers.

I’m younger than the targeted audience for this book, and that likely impacted my rating. There are some generalizations about men and women that didn’t sit well with me, but I think Allen’s viewpoints are probably spot-on with many 60+ year old women. Allen also mentions God, spirituality, and bible verses throughout the book, which didn’t resonate with me since I’m not religious, but Christian readers may enjoy this aspect. She offers a lot of tips for older women, so this book would be a perfect gift for the moms and grandmas in your life!

Chapter two was my least favorite - under the notion of “self-care,” Allen advises women to take more care in their appearance, and talks about how women start to fall apart after having kids. She talks about how this is eventually linked to lower self-esteem but I don’t think this is necessarily true for everybody. There are going to be days when I want to leave the house in sweatpants and flip flops, and I’d rather not be judged for it! Self-care looks different for everyone and it doesn’t need to equal perfect hair, skin, and clothes when going out.

Overall, I found Lori’s stories enjoyable and there are certainly things I can learn from the life she’s lived. I like her advice to women to take more interest in their family’s finances and take more control of their health.

Lori Allen’s life is a success story in more ways than one and I think every reader will finish the book with a few takeaways!

[Katy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I chose this book simply because I am about to retire and want to have ideas of what I need for me. I recommend it to those of a certain age who are wondering, "What is next?"

Lori Allen, the sophisticated and savvy woman who is featured on "Say Yes to the Dress! Atlanta" discusses how we do have to have a plan for our retirement. It will not look the same for everyone, and it just does not "happen<" which I already knew but was cluesless on what next. In this books she gave sage advice--You are ready for the next era in your life, but you must have a plan that includes putting yourself first, medically, socially, spiritually, physically, emotionally, and as equally important, on your role in the family. You do need outside contacts---with nature, with others. And you must realize in all things, quality is better than quantity.

A great book, in which I highlighted so many passages! It gave me hope and peace in the next step.

A few things I took away: (1) Nanny versus Granny: Many of us have grandchildren. Let's not overstep who we are. I am definitely the Granny. And I love it!
(2). Financial Literacy is very important. Learn what must be learned to financially sounds.
(3) Medical issues WILL happen. Keep those appointments and do my best.
(4) Keep learning. Find what I like, even if it's something I put on the burner years ago, and then work on making it part of who I am.
(5). Put my trust in my faith. God still has a plan for me. (A reaffirmation here.)

[Ren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not yet to the "wear white pants without fear" stage so I'm not entirely in the target audience for this book and I may not agree with every piece of advice she gives, but I still really enjoyed it! First, I love that the author read the audio version herself. I always think it's a bit odd when memoirs are read by anyone other than the author.
 
The author and I differ greatly on style. I don't color my hair, I have no intention of getting plastic surgery, I rarely even wear make-up and I'll keep my comfy clothes and shoes, thank you very much. I prefer shoes made for real feet and don't care if they "make my legs look good". I do love most of her philosophy on money though. The fact that she said no to her future son-in-law when he asked for her daughter's hand and told him to get his ducks in a row by paying off his debt made me love her! And yes, everyone needs to be able to handle their finances and not rely on someone else to do it for them. If you marry a man who is great at handling money? Great! But what happens when he's not there to do it for you through death or divorce? Everyone can do a budget. And her thoughts on continuing education? Yes! Though this book is directed at over 50 women, this book has so much great encouraging advice for women of any age.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson/W Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.

[Natalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here it is! My first NetGalley Audiobook review! As I've mentioned before, I'm not great at podcasts or audiobooks, so the fact that I finished this one fairly quickly is really saying something. "Say Yes to What's Next" by Lori Allen is all the advice and tips Lori has for women in their 40's and up for this next stage of their life. Known for her show "Say Yes to the Dress Atlanta" on TLC, Allen shares some of her tips from her business, her battle with breast cancer, and her faith.

Allen's book is a delight to listen to. I know I'm not the target audience, but I love any wisdom I can soak up. "Say Yes to the Dress" is one of my favorite TLC shows, so I was familiar with Allen walking into the book, but hearing her story was so much more than I expected. Allen's voice really added impact to her tips and wisdom throughout and I loved hearing her thoughts directly from her.

I also love that Allen peppered her faith all throughout her book. Some authors do what is popular or what will sell. Allen brings it up over and over again and you can tell she mentions it because it's actually engrained in her life.

I gave this book 4 stars! It was fun and helpful, full of knowledge. Allen is easy to listen to and feels like a friend. If you have a long drive or a massive pile of laundry, I would recommend giving this book a listen. Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I laughed and cried several times through out. If you have ever watched the hit series, "Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta, then you know Lori Allen. Dresses by Lori are always to be an incredible experience for every single bride. In her brand new book "Say Yes to What's Next: How to Age with Elegance and Class, While Never Losing Your Beauty and Sass, she stresses the importance of self care.

This book touches on so many aspects of self-care between health, beauty, clothing, spirituality, finances, friendships, and even marriage. I love that Lori Allen has given so much of her heart into this book, and as the reader, you can feel that in each chapter. She is honest, funny, emotional and raw in her sharing her heart. I love that. At the end of each chapter, she has a section called "Girlfriends Guide" and it highlights the focus of things she mentioned in the chapter.

Say Yes to What's Next was truly an enjoyable read. I read it in one sitting because Lori kept my attention the entire time. This book is really for any woman. No matter the age, this advice is practical and good in my opinion. I gave my copy to my mom because I loved it so much and told her to read it. Pick up a copy today. You will be so glad you did.

[Gregandemy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with an audiobook ARC of this title via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I love Say Yes to the Dress Atlanta and love Lori. I was quite excited to see her new book being offered on Netgalley in audiobook form, especially since she also narrates it. I could just listen to her talk all day. Now I am not in her demographic age of women in later life, and am actually about 20 years away from that point still. However, I still found a lot to connect to in her book and was able to gain insights that are helpful at my point in life. I also liked the feeling that I was getting the test scores to some future point in my life. I know what's coming and am more prepared for it after listening to Lori's experiences and example. I thought a lot of what she said about finding your own passion, taking care of yourself so that you will better be able to nurture others, strengthening relationships, and planning ahead is valuable advice at any age. Her book was so enjoyable to listen to and was packed full of useful, practical tips for a happy, fulfilled, and meaningful life. Thanks Lori!

[Cathleen Adams · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am not a reality tv person, so I had and still have no idea of who Lori Allen is. If shared values make a friendship work, then that's why I didn't get along with this book. She is coming from a strong Southern US religious right perspective and that's kinda the opposite of who I am as a Canadian atheist. The main focus of her life after family and God is fashion and as an Adventure girl, I buy my stuff at MEC and my local sports stores now that I have retired even more than when I worked. North Face not Armani in my closet. In fact, I found it quite off putting the mention of buying not one but 3 Armani sweaters when her lymphodema prevented wearing her regular jackets. You do you, Lori, but I don't live in the same world as you, so your advice just doesn't ring true for me. I bought my sweater jacket at Costco. I appreciate her ability to share her struggles with cancer in a frank and open way because this will be really helpful for those women who admire her and appreciate this book. She is clearly a brave woman and I wish her well, but I won't be motivated to watch her show or read more of her books.

[Readers Prescription · Rating 5 out of 5]

Say Yes to What’s Next audiobook, written and narrated by Lori Allen, left me wanting to know more from this amazing inspirational book. It’s chock full of great information for All women , of all ages!
My younger self would have LOVED to have had this terrific tool and advice in which to guide me.
My current self was wowed by her enthusiasm, advice and experiences in life.
My future self will surely put into practice her suggestions on the value of mentorship, self esteem, self care, funding and finding a happy and meaningful life, including your passions!
Lori is very candid and emotional in her dialog that I connected so much with. Her candor, self esteem and energy truly should be shared with many.
I was not comfortable with the ”cookie” reference to ones life. I found that reference awkward.

I actually really loved this book and went to listen to it half heartedly. Wow, was I pleasantly surprised as I know you will be.


Thank you NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Publisher and Lori Allen for the advance audiobook copy.

[Joyce Wheeler · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Lori Allen’s new book Say Yes to What’s Next, she takes you on a journey to all the many lessons she’s learned about aging with elegance and class. You can think of it like a big sister or best friend approach to making sure you are as equipped as you can be to face the developments that life can throw at you as you get older and how to still enjoy it at the same time. In the audio book version she tells you like it is in her own words holding no tears back at times. Some of the scariest and saddest conversations reach through the audio and can grab you by surprise, so you may shed a tear or two. The subjects she broaches are some of the more difficult ones anywhere from avoiding emotional landmines and understanding them or taking care of your physical and financial health. Overall this book may not be as lighthearted and energetic like so many other books about midlife transitioning, but it may be more valuable and exactly what you need. #getyourmammogram

[Pauline Cassie · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Review of audio version *

I'm not usually fond of the idea of 'self help' or 'advice' books but as an avid fan of SYTTD, in all its locations, I wanted to know what Lori Allen had to share that could possibly be of use to women heading towards a 'certain age'.

I loved that she narrated this audio book herself, it certainly helps the listener believe that the pearls of wisdom bestowed are indeed what Lori lives.

The areas where self-worth, self-care and financial literacy was highlighted were probably my favourites, alongside those of advocating the continuing of education in whatever interests individuals. As a teacher, I find this paramount in helping feelings of self-esteem and self-worth.

There were also times where there was more than one tear in my eye and this surprised me... Pleasantly so!

Lori, thank you for letting us into your life, sharing your journey through difficult times, which I don't doubt was done with extreme grace and more than a touch of class!

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually don’t listen to audiobooks. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I enjoyed it very much. Lori Allen as the narrator did a wonderful job. She made you feel like you were her friend and hanging out with her. I laughed and cried especially when she would get choked up when telling her story. Lori tell the story that you are never too old to do anything. You are in the prime of your life and don’t let it pass you by even if you are considered middle age. She takes you through her life. Lori is very candid about her ups, downs and her mistakes. She talks about Know your finances, friends, being empty nester etc. Her chapter about being a mother in law resonated with me, as did many of the chapters. I enjoyed this audiobook very much. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson W Publishing for the early listen to this audiobook. This is my own opinion.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Publisher and Lori Allen for the advance audiobook copy.

Say Yes to What’s Next is as much of a inspirational book for older women. But, also a memoir of parts of Lori Allen’s life. I truly loved Ms. Allen narration. The book is an honest look at how we as women tend to put ourselves behind everyone and everything. She wants us to take back our lives and dreams. The book is geared for the empty nester. However, she offers a wonderful blueprint for women in general. Reminding us to lift each other up instead of knocking off the crowns of others. Mrs. Allen reminds us to slow down and take a breath and make sure we are getting our well checks. After all, you cannot have a wonderful “cookie” if we are not healthy. I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook while I took my daily walks. Be well and enjoy life!

[Maddie · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I saw that Lori was going to be releasing a book, I got very excited because I just love her on Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta. However, I was kind of sad when I started reading and realized the book was garnered for older women in their 50s and 60s. That didn't stop me from reading though because I was still interested in what she had to say and the stories she would tell. Even though the stories were intended to be relatable, I found that I could learn from these stories and that they could help me as I get older and what I want out of life. I would recommend this to readers of any age from teens and up because Lori is really great at making us think about life and what we want out of it.

Favorite Quote: "The question for me—for all of us—is what do we want to make of the rest of our time here?"

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I love nonfiction books read by the author. Lori Allen from Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta delivers a killer audiobook meant for ladies whose kids are grown and flown. Even though I'm not even close to there yet, I really wanted to review this audiobook. I still got a ton out of it. Lori makes all topics accessible. It's hard not to take the advice from a woman whose southern drawl is sweet as candy. Say Yes to What's Next is like sitting down for nice chat with a friend who you've known for years and nothing is off limits. It's both firm and comforting. I absolutely recommend you get a copy and listen to this one.

I received this as an ARC in return for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for allowing me to read this title.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow! What can I even say about this book to explain how great it is? Mrs. Lori Allen discusses overcoming breast cancer, a terrible fall that left her with multiple injuries, the struggles of starting her business and everyday life topics she learned along the way. I read this at age 35, so some of the content was not relevant to my current life situation. However, I enjoyed every bit of this book. I am grateful to have this knowledge going forward and can honestly say this book shifted by perspective on how to prioritize my daily activities. I listened to the audiobook narrated by the author!

Thank you to NetGalley, W Publishing, and Mrs. Lori Allen for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.

[Marissa Mariano · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to this on audio... and I have to say I love that Lori narrates it! Unfortunately I am only 25 and not the targeted audience of 40-60 year old women however I loved listening and learning. I’ve been able to start thinking about things that I obviously won’t have to think of for a while but it’s always good to think ahead and know what to expect. I loved learning more about Lori and her life. She would get choked up at certain parts and hearing her emotion brought me to tears several times. The only “uncomfortable” part of the book was that she would refer to life as her “cookie” and it always made me think she was talking about something inappropriate instead.

[Deanna Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book for women to read! I knew when I heard Lori Allen was the author I had to get the audio book, though normally not my favorite format. Delivered in her normal, no nonsense, sassy way made listening to this book a joy. She covers many tough topics in a way that makes you sit up and take notice of things we do and don't do! I loved her courage in discussing her own health issues. I will be recommending this book to many women!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my voluntary honest review.

[Morgan Destera · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good advice, but hidden

There is some good advice here, but to me it was hidden in pretensiousness. I almost felt like it was dripping with privilege. It’s as if she cannot comprehend there are thousands upon thousands of women who cannot hire financial advisors, whose monthly income is so low they often have to choose between food and gasoline to get to work (or bus fare). I love “Say Yes to the Dress” and admire Lori, but a woman who sells $10,000 dresses for a person to wear just hours out of one day cannot comprehend how the other half lives.

[Sandy · Rating 1 out of 5]

I couldn't finish this book. I love her show and wanted so much to love her book. I disliked her entire premise. I was excited to find a book that I thought would embrace being older. What I found was her criticizing everything that I love about my life. Looks mean way too much to her. I appreciated her honesty with her battle with breast cancer and realize she has dealt with much. I just didn't like being put down for my life.