Last Minute Gift Guide for Her

Tis the season to decorate Christmas trees, build snowmen and for GIVING! If you need a last minute present for your bestie, sister or daughter, look no further. Today's post is about two safe last minute gifts: jewelry and cosmetics!

The first category we are going to discuss is a lady necessity, Jewelry. Let's be honest here, jewelry is always a safe last minute go-to gift. 

One popular trend lately is stacking jewelry; whether it is rings, necklaces, or my favorite-bracelets, stacking jewelry is an instant way to make a statement. 

ALEX AND ANI bangles are the perfect way to embrace this jewelry trend. Alex and Ani make great stocking stuffers because each bracelet has a meaning and contains an inspirational message. Forewarning though, once you purchase one, you will want 40 (no lie). 

My favorites?

Quill Feather Wrap -$58 {not all are this expensive, but I love it}

Born to Be Something Charm Bracelet- $28 {see told you, this one is way more affordable}

Completely Blessed Bangle- $28

Look how cute they look stacked: 

Alex and Ani have sorority, initial, birthstone and team bangles as well. They have so many different ones that you have to check it out yourself! Look on the website to see if a retailer near you carries Alex and Ani, you might be surprised. 

Okay, moving on...another fabulous gift idea for any woman is a state love ring. You can go for the state they grew up in, fell in love in, got their first job in...whatever the reason might be. DreamingTreeCreation on Etsy can make any state and each ring comes with a heart (hence the love).

Boho inspired jewelry is all the rage lately and a Gold Arrowhead necklace is a prime way to incorporate boho accents into your collection. ONLY $12.

Next category: Beauty

First I want to discuss a new holy grail foundation that I have discovered, BARE SKIN Brightening Foundation by Bare Minerals. You can purchase it at any beauty retailer such as Ulta, Sephora etc. If you buy this for a beauty lover make sure you also get the brush. They will love this foundation because the finish is dewy and bright, hence "brightening" in the name.

Up next is the perfect holiday eyeshadow palette by Smashbox-
Mini Full Exposure Palette, $22. A make up lover is bound to love this palette because it contains 4 beautiful neutrals and 4 complimenting shimmer shadows.

Now let's talk about eyeliner, which is a necessity to most beauty gurus. Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliner is top of the spectrum, but tends to be more on the pricy side (when individually purchased). Well try getting ten 24/7 Glide On eyeliner pencils for the price of 5?! That's right, only available online at Ulta for only $58, you get 10 colorful eyeliners in the UD Glide On Pencil Set. If your beauty lover likes to experiment with color, this gift is a win-win.

Lastly, if your beauty lover is also a manicure enthusiast then a Gel Top Coat polish or a Professional LED Light will be the cherry on top of her Christmas.

Which last minute gift appeals to you?! Comment below!

Memorial Day OOTD

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY TO ANYONE WHO HAS PREVIOUSLY/STILL FIGHTS FOR OUR COUNTRY, we appreciate all that you do.

I decided to display my gratitude and american spirit with Red, White, and Blue for today's ootd!

Shorts: American Apparel

Tank: H&M

Kimono: H&M [similar]

Shoes: Minnetonka Kilty in Dusty Brown-

If you follow this blog regularly, you know I love Minnetonka moccasins because they are so comfortable yet stylish. If you don't own a pair of Minnetonka moccs yet, you definitely should. 

How are you celebrating today? Comment below!

Spring Break Essentials

 

Oversized Baja blanket, bikinis, flip flops, sunscreen, a good book, BB cream…can only mean one thing-Spring Break officially starts on Friday! Today, I have been productive and got a jump start on packing. I spent last week shopping for our beach trip and I am so excited to finally show you what I consider to be SPRING BREAK ESSENTIALS!

The first thing a woman needs at the beach is of course a bikini. I love a fitted bathing suit with a great pattern and this year patterns are everywhere. I started my bathing suit search at the most obvious place to find cheap swimwear- TARGET. Every Spring Break that I can remember I’ve purchased at least one bathing suit from there. Obviously I was expecting some great buys, but this year Target went above and beyond with swimwear. I purchased 3 tops and 1 bottom (I mix my pieces and have some from previous years) for only $75; which is the whole reason I love Target so much. I’ll link the swimwear pieces that I bought below.

Black and white chevron top

Cobalt blue bottom

Royal blue and green fringe top

Black and white polka dot bandeau top

The next essential is loose, comfortable yet incredibly stylish and on trend clothes. Yes, clothes like that do actually exist. For example, this year loose, wide legged bohemian style pants are really stylish and not to mention the most comfortable thing you’ll ever wear, besides yoga pants. Forever 21 has some extremely inexpensive pairs for under $15. I purchased a royal blue and plum tribal printed pair and a black high-waisted pair with white flowers on them. The pants are super cute and perfect for going out to eat or shopping around the town during the day, but do not make the mistake of wearing them out on the sand because they are not skinny and you will get sand on the wide legs. Another item I found at Forever 21 is the pair of loose daisy printed shorts you see in the pictures above with the black trim. THOSE are beach shorts and should absolutely be worn on the beach. The last thing for loose and stylish items are things like muscle tees, skirts, and maxi dresses. The more comfortable, the better when it comes to Spring Break.

Make up items are surprisingly essential for the beach, but not your normal make up routine. Forget the eyeliner and contouring and alternate BB creams, mineral make up, sunscreen, and protective lip balm. Embrace the wonderful sun kissed look your skin gets after an all day beach adventure and ditch your blush, highlighter, and bronzer, but DON’T forget to opt for items with sunscreen. I bought Garnier BB Cream and decided to pull out my trusty Prime and Poreless BB Cream like product from Too Faced. I am not sure which one I will take but those are the options. For mineral make up I will always, undoubtedly reach for BareMinerals. If you have used it, you know why. I love how weightless the formula is and it blends amazingly well plus contains sunscreen! I am taking Fairly Light foundation, Bisque concealer, and Hint blush- all which I have used before and am a huge fan. The last make up essential is a hydrating moisturizer like Hope In a Jar by Philosophy or Hempz- the coconut watermelon scent is the BEST.

For hair, the best thing to do is go completely natural. Embrace messy hair from the salt air because people pay good money for that look when purchasing Sea Salt Spray. However, do not be afraid to bring accessories for up do’s including bobby pins, practical headbands, sock bun attachments, hats, and flower crowns. I also plan to bring my Nume 25 mm wand for dinner dates or shopping trips when I feel like adding some extra waves.

The last things to pack are necessary beach items like flop flops or sandals, sunglasses, koozies, sunglasses case, camera, beach bag, headphones, and a great book. And don’t forget the random things like a 3D Cap Light for crab hunting- yep, I went there. Last year we purchased a sun shelter and it is basically one of those small open beach tent things. It is perfect to lay your face under while tanning or if you’re like my boyfriend, you can sit under it all day instead of tanning. Either way, I will link one here so you can try it out; you won’t regret it.

Links to other items pictured: 
VANS hat (similar)
Keep Calm and Carry a Big Drink book
h20 makeup remover
 Baja blanket bag
Daisy Shorts (sold out online; check in store)

Did I forget to mention anything? Comment below. Cheers to a wonderful Spring Break!

Treats: Valentines Day

Remember in elementary school when you exchanged valentine’s cards with everyone and you were an asshole if you left out someone? Well, why should adult life be any different? Surprise your friends or coworkers with these tasty treats for Valentine’s Day. WARNING: The food below is delicious and fattening.
#1: RED VELVET WHOOPIE PIE. Annie had me at “Red Velvet” (my favorite dessert in all the land), mixed with whoopie pie? OH MY! To check out exactly how to make these bundles of cream cheese click here.
#2: BROWNIE HEART CUPCAKES- For a step by step recipe click here

What You’ll need:

· Vegetable oil, cooking spray

· 3 cups all-purpose flour

· 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

· 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt

· 3 sticks unsalted butter, cut into pieces

· 12 ounces unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped

· 3 cups sugar

· 6 large eggs, room temperature

· 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

· Basic Buttercream

#3: Surprise Inside Cupcakes- The fabulous Lauren Conrad has a Valentine’s cupcake recipe that is too darling for words. Any woman would love if her valentine surprised her with some of these cupcakes-too freaking cute. To find out what is inside this surprise cupcake and to check out the full recipe click here.
#4: Imagine a romantic Valentine’s Day at home with your man (or your crush/ Valentine), you have a full four-course dinner planned but what about cocktails? No worries, Elle has your back with this how-to guide on mixing his and hers cocktails like a pro for Valentine’s Day. This article is a must read and a must do.
#5: Before the romantic dinner comes breakfast. Surprise your Valentine with breakfast in bed, or bring them a pick me up at work. These Jelly donut muffins are sure to make him smile. To make them you’ll need:

· 2 cups all-purpose flour

· 1 tablespoon baking powder

· ⅛ teaspoon salt

· ½ cup sugar

· 2 eggs

· 1 cup milk

· ⅓ cup +1 tablespoon canola oil

· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

· Approx ⅓ cup jelly (I used raspberry, but you can use your favorite!)

· ½ cup butter, melted

· ¾ cup sugar

For directions and a step by step guide to make these delicious and adorable treats, click here.

#6: Strawberry Gumdrop Hearts- My favorite kind of candy is gummy anything, add strawberry and it’s beyond delicious. To be Valentine’s day appropriate of course a heart is involved. Check the full recipe here.


#7:  Handwritten ‘Valentine’ Cupcakes- I know you’re like…just another cupcake but this is special because it’s your handwriting. How awesome would it be to receive a cupcake with a handwritten note on the top? Step by step instructions here
All of these treats are to enhance your Valentine’s Day gift giving. What was your favorite? Tell me below

Christmas Haul

I know this is a little late, but I recently spent all the gift cards that I received for Christmas so what better to time to post a What I Got For Christmas Haul?I will link as many items as I can below, but some might be sold out or only sold in stores. If that is the case, the item might be in-store because some things I bought as soon as last Tuesday.
1. NAKED- I did not own the first naked palette, surprising I know. Now starting above NAKED is 2. Tory Burch bangles (gold)*similar* 3. A GENEVA watch 4. Initial earrings (gold and silver) 5. “M” bracelet 6. Beauty blender (TJ Maxx) 7. Too Faced Primed and Poreless foundation primer 8. 2 packs of Neutrogena wipes (beauty staple)- Hydrating for in the morning and Calming for nighttime 9. 3 Sephora lip glosses 10. Leopard pen 11. Black and white magnets (for my inspiration board)- Target 12. Age Rewind Under eye Concealer 13. Macadamia Heating Hair Oil 14. Red printed coasters (Target), 15. Mini gold owl (Epcot) 16. Bow Maker (ebay) 17. Oven mit (TJ Maxx) 18. Nate Berkus arrowhead paperweight (Target) 19. Three wallets (Target). 20. Picture frame (Target) –I’m not a Target nut or anything…
Have you tried any of the products/items mentioned above, tell me in the comments! Sorry I have been super busy this week, more posts next week!

New Years Eve Part 2

For Part Two of my New Years Eve post, here are a few items from Etsy to kick start your event and some fashion and make up ideas for the big night! Even the Host needs to look put together to make for a perfect night. P.S. Don't forget the mouthwash or tic-tacs to freshen up before the big moment at midnight!

Etsy Items

New Years Eve Crown Pdf

Cheers Banner

Pop Fizz Clink Balloons

Wine Bottle Sweater

2014 Printable Poster

Tassel Garland

Drink tags/charms- Cheers

Fashion Inspiration

Image credit to Sarah from Classy Girls Wear Pearls

I also like Annabelle Fleur from Viva Luxury’s take on the leather dress and statement necklace

Image Credit to Viva Luxury

Or how about Atlantic Pacific’s take on the elegant black and white striped dress paired with perfect pearls? A bright pink shoe adds the perfect touch to any New Years Eve outfit!

Image Credit to Atlantic Pacific

Make Up Ideas

Too Faced is having an End of the year sale and their Glamour to Go Spun Sugar Edition palette *Originally $22* is on sale for only $9.90. If you’re interested, click here. The palette contains 8 highly pigmented shadows, A bronzer, Lipgloss, and a blush. The best part is the variety is endless, one can create a smoky eye or a basic natural eye with a hint of sparkle. Like I mentioned in Part One, New Years Eve is all about the glitter! What are some of your favorite New Years Eve projects, outfits, and make up inspirations? Comment below!

Cheers to a classy and cheerful night filled with champagne, photo props, and hopefully wonderful memories. It is hard to believe the next time we chat, it will be the year 2014! Well, bring on the new year and my new blog will be announced soon, GET EXCITED!

Happy Early New Year Blog Family!

New Years Eve Part 1

Spice up your New Year’s Eve party with these ideas for invitations, DIY projects to prepare, and outfit inspirations!

Invitations can be the deciding factor when a shindig occasion rolls around, New Years Eve shouldn’t be any different. I think people enjoy the feeling of receiving an invitation and being formally invited to something. Yes, I mean include R.S.V.P. and all, but also keep in mind that the word formal is used lightly. Your invitations do not have to be super special because just sending one is enough. They can be fancy shmancy or basic but perfect; the choice is yours. 

Some invitations I find eye catching yet simple and informative are from Etsy *Shocker, right?!*

If you're making your own, use this one as a guide because it is perfect.

Etsy Shop click here

Some interesting DIY projects to add the extra bang, fizz, clank to your evening.

1. Print out a catchy phrase relating to New Years Eve with special font and frame it. If you’re extra crafty, make your own artwork and frame it. Just be sure to add something glittery and eye-catching for all to see.

2. New Years Eve is one of those occasions where using oversized clocks and photo props is encouraged and highly recommended. The overall message of New Years Eve is out with the old, and in with the new. Though 2013 has been a good year with some ups and downs, 2014 is all about new beginnings and seeing what opportunities, milestones, and adventures the new year has to offer. Make your guests excited about the new year!

3. Extra DIY projects add a special touch that your guests will appreciate.

• One idea is making DIY drink stirrers using Tinsel and a bamboo skewer. Note this is the perfect opportunity to put the leftover tinsel from your Christmas decorations to good use.

Idea and Image credit to Heart and Craft

• Get the mod podge, tinsel, and glittery ready for this next idea making DIY 2014 *Pretend the 3 is a 4* candles.

Idea and image credit to Celebrations

• This next idea is borrowed from Indiana Poluxe and involves hot beverages to warm up people because “Baby Its Cold Outside.” Guests will love the fact that hot chocolate is available and IF you want, add some Bailey’s and marshmallows to really spice up the night.

Idea and image credit to Make It Luxe Blogspot

Finally, lets talk about photo props. Linked below is the perfect little prop set to make sure your guests remember your night and it ends with a bang. Oh, and bang reminds me- fireworks are also a nice touch.

Photo Props

Part Two’s post goes live in a few hours and it features many different Etsy shops to help prepare for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party, so stay tuned.

Put A Bow On It

I know I have been silent lately, but this is the first time I have picked up a computer since I finished my finals on December 12th. It is completely unbelievable, but so much has happened in my personal life that a computer has been the very last thing on my mind. I know this also means neglecting blogging, which was never intentional, but my family has undergone a dramatic death and we have been in hardcore mourning. I did not share this with my readers because it has been so incredibly difficult to deal with and I couldn't find myself writing about fashion, beauty products, or anything for that matter because so much has been spinning around my head. So, please please please forgive and bare with me as I transition back into the normal blogging routine. I am still back home with my family and will be until January, but I will start blogging again starting right now. Unfortunately, I have also been away from Pinterest so I am a little behind on the latest and greatest fads but my post today is all about clever and chic ways to wrap a Christmas present.

I know you're thinking..wow, this is totally last minute since it is Christmas Eve, but it's more or less to help me get back into the blogging routine a little at the time. If you don't celebrate Christmas or have already wrapped presents, no big deal, use these ideas to spice up your gift wrapping for any occasion or event.

#1: 

Gift tags are awesome but who doesn't love something more personal? Replace the standard gift tag with a picture of the person or of you and the person you are giving the gift. They will feel the love before even opening the gift!

Photo Creds: City Farmhouse

#2: 

How about some creative and extra festive printable gift tags? These are absolutely perfect for Christmas spirited people who are looking to add a little something different to their gifts. The best part is there is no need to run to Wal-Mart or the Dollar store to pick up the basic TO: and FROM: gift tags, all you need is a printer and some label paper *or just scissors, screw the label paper*

Photo Creds: Dreamsicle Sisters

#3: 

This last idea is to purely inspire and show that gift wrapping offers endless possibilities. You can wrap presents the normal/boring way or you can open up your mind and use your inner creativity to come up with something as cute as these Santa inspired bags and gifts, check them out.

Photo Creds: Pinterest- 

(If this is your design, contact me via email so I can credit your image.)

#4:

I think Thank You notes are a huge part of giving gifts that people often forget. People should be appreciated for all they do so What's better than thanking the gift givers for all they gave?

Though this idea is typically used for Bridal showers and wedding oriented events, what says Thank You in a classy way like a doily envelope? Not much and you can attach a Christmas tree or something festive on the front or where the "envelope" opens to add the Christmas theme, versus a wedding one. Imagine people's faces when they receive this in the mail.

Photo Creds: Pinterest *Contact me for credit*

Another idea before I hit the hay...

Nothing says thank you quite like a photograph...of you or your child holding a personalized chalk written sign thanking the gift giver. I promise it will be a thank you card they want to keep, instead of tossing it in the garbage with all the others. 

 

Photo Creds: House of Hendrix

After all the gift giving, do not forget to show the people who went out of their way appreciation on such an occasion like Christmas. Tis the season for giving...and saying thank you in return!

Merry Christmas Blogging Family! 

I will blog again soon and more regularly, promise. 

Also, I have a big announcement for the new year. 

Hint: New year, new blog, isn't that what they say? 

Black Friday Series

I had so much fun with the small space series (access here) that I am in the process of constructing a Black Friday series coming to a computer near you all November! I know this is quite a commitment but there is no schedule so the posts will be random; make sure to subscribe to this blog so you do not miss anything!
The first action packed post goes live at 9 am on Tuesday so stay tuned!

Fourth of July ready

Today, I received my American flag bow that I ordered from bowohholics on Poshmark. I absolutely can not wait to wear it to Hunting Island for fireworks and shopping! To order a similar bow go to BowFantasy's shop on Etsy. She has one for $4.95 (pictured below). If you want to see a picture of my full outfit tomorrow comment below or rate this post. Happy 4th of July, readers. Stay safe!

XOXO,
SweetSouthernPea