The Juliet Notes

Currently loving (and some big news)...

2012-01-18T19:40:00.000-08:00

This bedroom. Spotted here.

So Ian and I have been busy redecorating our apartment and I've been scouring the likes of Apartment Therapy, Belle Maison and Pinterest (obviously) to get inspiration. We are getting an early start on spring cleaning and getting some much needed new furnishings. Which included a king size bed. How did we ever get by with a queen? The extra space is so heavenly. I will post photos of our new improvements as soon as they are complete.

We are also super excited to announce we are expecting our first baby!! I am currently in my second trimester and so happy to have some energy back (first trimester and a whole month into my second trimester left me exhausted) which means I can finally find it in me to blog again!! Yay!

I will post some belly pics soon...baby is finally showing a bit. I also can't wait to share photos from Amsterdam and England. Good lord, it's been almost a year now. Ridiculous how long it's taken me to post the rest of our honeymoon. Oh well, better late (it's just too much of a cliché to even finish that sentence).

I also realize we're almost out of January but Happy New Year!! I think 2012 is going to be my favorite year yet!!

And for a peek at an amazing West Village apartment tour click here.

xoxo

Our Honeymoon: Santorini, Greece...

2011-12-01T23:10:00.000-08:00

Our view.

Our hotel The Hotel Loucas.

This photo was not photoshopped at all.

That's me in front trying to escape the donkey smell.

Baklava for breakfast baklava for lunch.

Something delicious for dinner, then baklava for dessert.

Black sand beaches.

Sad to leave.

A beautiful sunset on the ferry ride back to Athens.

Next up, Amsterdam...

2011-11-07T19:51:00.000-08:00

Wow, I've been gone WAY too long!! Life has gotten rather hectic in the last month which is why I haven't been blogging. But I'm back (yay!) with updates and more posts on our honeymoon coming up shortly.

In the meantime, don't you just love this print? I tend to have a problem focusing on the here and now. I always worry about the future or fret about the past and nothing ruins the present more than thinking about the past or worrying about the future. This is a good reminder that all we really have is right now. I need to live in the now and love it.

(photo: pinterest)

Drive...

2011-09-26T19:41:00.000-07:00

When I first saw "Drive" I thought it was okay (I had to close my eyes for the outrageously violent parts) but the movie stayed with me. I thought about it all week and the intense emotions it evoked in me. So then I saw it a second time - and I never see a movie twice... it's that good. One of the best movies I've seen in a very long time. Go see it. Then get the soundtrack, it's just as amazing as the film.

(photo credit: imdb)

Layered bracelets...

2011-09-22T22:14:00.000-07:00

This photo...

makes me want to buy these bracelets...

All from J.Crew.

(Top photo via La Dolce Vita)

Bright nails...

2011-09-14T17:05:00.000-07:00

I wondered into J.Crew the other day (only to browse) and found this stellar shade of nail polish. It's so gorgeous I had to purchase it...along with a cool bracelet (or two...okay three). I know, I should've known better than to go into J.Crew thinking I wasn't going to buy anything.

Our Honeymoon: Athens, Greece...

2011-09-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

Eating at our first authentic Greek restaurant.

Vouliagmeni

The Parthenon

Moussaka

When they dug the metro they found graves and had some on display. Pretty crazy to see.

Poseidon's Temple

A bird who posed for the camera.

Athens was wonderful. We were fortunate enough to stay with family friends who live there and it made the whole experience unforgettable. We ate lots of Greek food, learned how to say "thank you" in Greek..."σας ευχαριστώ" (I've since forgotten because it's in Greek) and spent endless hours roaming the museums and temples. We also watched the Royal Wedding live and I came down with a sinus infection (yuk) but was so well cared for I got better in no time at all.

Up next Santorini....

Simple Things...

2011-09-01T18:36:00.000-07:00

If you like pie and are in the Los Angeles area I highly recommend going to Simple Things Sandwich & Pie Shop. They have banoffee pie. Enough said.

Our Honeymoon: The Algarve, Portugal...

2011-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

After arriving to the Algarve we found ourselves in a British cafe (if you've ever been to the Algarve this won't come as a shock). I think most everyone in the Algarve is British, which is fine by me. British people = British food and I love myself some British food as seen here.

Enjoying a glass of wine with my prawn cocktail.

Sweet family hugs

English breakfast

It rained. A lot. The upside...with the rain came the rainbows.

Next up, Greece...

Our Honeymoon: Lisbon, Portugal...

2011-08-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

Lisbon was so interesting and beautiful. I loved the bright shade of yellow that flowed throughout the city along with the stunning black and white mosaic sidewalks. Lisbon reminded me of a laid back San Francisco... hilly streets, cable cars and a bridge that looks just like the Golden Gate.

The best thing I tasted in Lisbon was their signature egg custard tarts. I don't even like egg custard tarts but these, these were just so dang good. If you ever go to Lisbon go to Pastelaria Belem. Seriously.

Up next...The Algarve, Portugal.

Our Honeymoon: Barcelona...

2011-08-25T15:16:00.000-07:00

Dessert for breakfast

La Sagrada Familia


View from the top

A long way back down

Dramatic effect of the sun through the cathedral windows.

Tapas

Park Guell

Sangria and flamenco dancers at El Tablao De Carmen

Dessert from Bubo

Next up Portugal...

The long Costa Rica post...

2011-08-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

The bad stuff I learned in Costa Rica:

I really don't like humid climates. At all.

Hiking in humid climates makes me feel like I'm suffocating.

I hate mosquitoes, even more than I thought.

The constant application of sunscreen and insect repellent causes me to break out in a horrible, itchy rash.

That same insect repellent that gave me a rash also striped my nail polish off after I had just gotten a mani/pedi. Grrr.

One too many alcoholic beverages while in the hot springs is the worst idea. Ever.

There are more potholes in Costa Rica than anywhere else. At least anywhere I've been.

There are also more stray dogs.

That the judicial system is so lax that you could commit murder and the most severe sentence you'll receive is six years in prison. Or something like that. This was told to me by the owner of one of the bed and breakfasts we stayed at. Have no idea how this came up but it wasn't very comforting.

Getting swimmer's ear while swimming underwater really sucks. As does taking time the next day to go to a doctor to have it flushed out.

The good stuff I learned in Costa Rica:

I love when my husband reads to me.

Especially Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. So good. Read it. Or have someone you love read it to you.

Fried plantains and jam are the bomb.com.

Monkeys are even cuter than I thought.

You can get much better nausea medication there than you can here (I suffer from motion sickness, yep I'm one of those people).

Active volcanoes are fascinating. And hearing husband explain about how volcanoes are formed - even more fascinating.

A deep tissue massage and nice dinner makes everything better.

I finally got why people like ice cold beers in hot weather.

That there's a real Pirates of the Caribbean ride. Minus the pirates and minus Johnny Depp {bummer}.

The card game Spades is really fun. Even if your team loses.

I can survive 13 days with only one backpack (!!!).

I'm not really an outdoorsy girl and I'm okay with that.

And now for the photos...

This is the coffee plantation we visited.

Learning lots about coffee. After nearly injecting myself in the veins with the stuff. {Very inappropriate since I had recently stated that I was giving up caffeine}

So pretty. And humid.

This is what lunch looks like. Eh.

This is what I look like... hot and sticky.

This is how we traveled. Backpacks only.

We ventured to Tortuguero to watch sea turtles nest at night. Kind of interesting. Really humid.

This is what breakfast looked like.

Rain. Fun.

The real pirates of the Caribbean ride.

The humongous spiders you see on that ride. Gives me the heeby jeebies.

Our incredibly ripped jungle tour guide.

Enjoying a beer.

Yummy Caribbean chicken from Miss Miriam's. Oh and look, more rice and beans.

So much cuter than spiders. Cows from La Fortuna.

The view of the Arenal Vocano from our hotel room. The most active volcano in the world.

This is husband's "told you so" face. I think it's cute.

One of my favorite parts of the trip Pizza John's.

Here I am listening to Pizza John tell his interesting story.

This is Pizza John.

He asks guests to sign his wall. So we did.

Then we posed with our marking.

A smooch in front of Arenal.

Trying {unsuccessfully} to stay cool.

This was our nice dinner. So happy it doesn't include rice and beans.
Our final destination was Manuel Antonio. We stayed at the Costa Verde. This is a suite attached to a plane. Love it.

From our balcony.

Monkeys!!!

Thoughtful loner monkey.

My monkey, reading to me.

I love him.

A gorgeous sunset. Almost made me forget how humid it was...almost.

On the way to the airport we ate at Outback Jack's.

Funny {and humid}.

Bet you thought this post would never end. I kinda felt the same way about the trip.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close...

2011-08-06T16:48:00.000-07:00

While in Costa Rica I read the book Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. I have to say it is one of the best books I've ever read. Ever. I HIGHLY recommend.

Costa Rica bound...

2011-07-18T01:39:00.000-07:00

I'm heading to Costa Rica for the next couple of weeks and will be without my computer. Gasp. However, I will be bringing my camera along and will blog all about it when I return {as well as picking up where I left off on our honeymoon posts}.

Au revoir for now.

xoxo

Ann & George's Bed and Breakfast in Paso Robles...

2011-07-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

The morning before my birthday we got in the car and headed west. When I started seeing signs for wineries I thought we could be headed to Paso Robles but didn't want to get my hopes up in case Ian drove right on by. When we turned down a windy dirt rode I knew my suspicions were correct. I have never been wine tasting and I've always wanted to go to Paso. The dirt rode continued for a while and then there was a gorgeous vineyard, a few more twists and turns and I saw a beautiful house on the top of the hill. We pulled into a little gravel driveway and were greeted by a sweet little dog and a man named George who was working on the yard.

The road that leads to Ann & George's Bed and Breakfast

The driveway.

The patio area.

Now if I had to cast the perfect grandfather type, George would fit the bill. George introduced himself and the dog whose name was Roxy. I have to say I was a bit confused, I figured we were going to a bed and breakfast but this didn't seem like any bed and breakfast I've ever been to. The setting and greeting felt so personal I actually had the thought, "Is Ian surprising me with family I never knew I had?"

Roxy.

George apologized for greeting us in his work clothes {very endearing} and led us through the front door to meet his wife, Ann. Ann quickly came and introduced herself. You know how sometimes meeting new people can be a bit awkward? {Maybe that's just me...I get so shy with introductions} Well, there was none of that. Ann made us feel welcomed instantly. She picked up on Ian's British accent and Scottish last name and told us about her Scottish heritage. She was bubbly and warm I liked her right away. After chatting a bit Ann showed us around the house, which was gorgeous and the views...breathtaking. Then she asked us if we were hungry for a fruit and cheese plate. Of course our answer was yes, please!! She asked what kind of wine we preferred and handed us our snacks and Chardonnay {which was the best I've ever had}. Before going about her business she told us to make ourselves at home and to not feel obligated to engage in conversation with her or George if we didn't feel like it {which I couldn't imagine...I could've chatted happily with the both of them all day} She wanted to make us feel as comfortable as possible and she succeeded.

Our room.

At this point I was giddy and after drinking a glass of wine and eating delicious fruit and cheese I was trying to figure out a way we could rent our room from Ann and George permanently. The room was full of wonderful details - they had really thought of everything...a small portable fan in the bathroom, a drawer full of toiletries, full size body wash, shampoo and conditioner in the shower, plush robes in the closet, a fly swatter, a CD player with a nice selection of CD's, a coffee maker, an assortment of teas, wine, I could go on and on.

Little details.

Ian had planned out the rest of the day so after settling in we got in the car to go to our second destination. After a short scenic drive we pulled up to River Oaks Hot Springs Spa. I have never been to a hot springs spa before...it was amazing. We had a half hour in the hot springs tub with a bottle of champagne and then I had a deep tissue massage. A warm early evening summer breeze encompassed us as we left the spa and I truly felt like a new person {I realize this sounds extremely corny but it's true so I can't delete it}.

Onto destination number three...dinner. As per the suggestion of Ann and George we went to Thomas Hill Organics. We sat on the patio with white string lights above us. It was gorgeous and the food was spectacular. Especially the scallops, if you ever go order the scallops... you will not regret it.

Me feeling like a new person.

After dinner we headed back home {home being Ann & George's}. Ann and George had just gotten back from dinner themselves and we chatted about our evening and then said goodnight. Ian and I grabbed a glass of red wine and went to sit out on the patio. I have never in my life seen so many stars. It literally took my breath away...I even saw a shooting star and I made a wish. Perfection.

The starriest sky I've ever seen.

*A really nice touch...I had brought a bottle of water in with me when I arrived. I had left it out empty and Ann rinsed it out and filled it up again and had it chilling in the refrigerator for when we returned.

It doesn't end there. When we went down for breakfast the next morning Ann and George were already busy preparing everything. We chatted a bit with the other couple that were staying and then we sat down at the dining room table and ate the most delicious breakfast, much better than you would get in any restaurant. Since it was my birthday Ann put a candle on my fresh out of the oven croissant and everyone sang me, "Happy Birthday." Super sweet. The best part of breakfast was that Ann and George sat down and ate with us. We were able hear great stories about wonderful birthdays George threw for Ann. We also heard about some birthday and Valentine's Day doozies. There were many laughs and the time seemed to fly by.

Breakfast, I was too excited to dig in to frame this photo properly.

After breakfast we roamed around the vineyard for a while and Ann helped give us suggestions on things to do later that evening.

Ann and George's vineyard.

It was the 4th of July so we were trying to find out the best place to watch fireworks. After settling on watching the fireworks at Meridian Vineyards we headed to our wine tasting at Justin Vineyards. Ann packed us a little bag of cheese, crackers, fruit and homemade oatmeal raisin cookies {so delish} so we wouldn't get too hungry while we were there.

We took the Barrels and Bottles tour led by a young man named Brian, who really knew his stuff. It was the last tour they were giving for the day and we were the only ones in it, our own personal wine tasting. Then we headed to Meridian where we listened to music, ate watermelon and steak sandwiches and watched the fireworks over the vineyard. The sunset was especially gorgeous.

Our last morning George made corn pancakes which were so scrumptious. I'm really picky about pancakes and he got these just right. The weather was so nice we were able to eat outside at the table on the porch overlooking the vineyard. Ann and George joined us and we were lucky enough to hear more wonderful stories. I really didn't want to leave. We are already planning our next trip there. Which is a really good thing because the morning after our stay I woke up wishing I was back at Ann and George's.

Chatting with Ann.

If you ever find yourself in Paso Robles do yourself a favor and stay with Ann and George. It will be an experience you will never forget. It was the highlight of our trip and the best birthday I've had yet.

4th of July {my birthday}: The cake post....

2011-07-12T12:53:00.000-07:00

This year goes down as one of my favorite birthdays ever. Ian told me that he was taking me on a surprise trip and I was thrilled. Everything was taken care of, no decisions needed to be made {I'm terrible at being decisive} and I didn't have to worry about a thing. Except for what I was going to pack...which can always be challenging.

We woke up early Saturday morning and headed north. After a couple hours in the car we got off in the town where most of my family resides. Ian told me he had to pick something up at Target and I believed him. Before I knew it we were pulling up to my brother's house where everyone was expecting us for a barbeque.

The men cooked and I took some pictures.

Then we had birthday cake but not just any birthday cake. The best birthday cake in the world from Smith's Bakery seen here. I have had one every. single. year. of my life. I thought this year might be the first time I went without it...but Ian knew better than to deny me my birthday cake. It is so good if I had to choose a last meal Smith's cake would be it. Nothing else, just the cake with lots of frosting.

I didn't get a proper picture of the cake because I blew out the candles in lightening speed {I knew what my wish was ahead of time this year} and we dug right in. Then I felt nauseous from all the sugar. At which point the only thought in my head was, "Hopefully this sick feeling will go away soon so I can eat another piece of cake." I might have a slight addiction. Which is why I thought the cake deserved an entire post unto itself. More on the rest of the trip in the following post.

Bright couch...

2011-06-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

Seeing this couch on Design Sponge...

is making me obsess over this couch from Urban Outfitters {it's in my shopping cart waiting for me to pull the trigger}.

Our Honeymoon: last night in Rome...

2011-06-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

On our last night in Rome my family cooked us a delicious feast. Thinking about it makes my mouth water.

We started off with dry martinis... my first one ever.

Then we had pasta {I probably gained 10 lbs. from eating pasta every. single. day.}

Then Marina made homemade calamari.

I have to say I usually don't like calamari...but this I had to go back to for seconds and thirds {possibly fourths}

Then we had shrimp.

Followed by salad.

{Then I went into a partial food coma and forgot to take pictures of dessert...we had chocolate and drank grappa.}

After dinner we played a game. They brought in a tray of items and what I could say correctly in Italian I could keep. There was a handmade wallet, a huge chunk of fresh parmigiano, Italian playing cards, a handmade necklace and a key with a note attached. I struggled with a lot of the words but they let me keep all the items anyway. The note attached to the key said "Our home is your home." I was a basket case after that...tearing up at the mere thought of saying goodbye. The only thing that made it better was knowing we would return one day VERY soon...after all, I threw that coin in the Trevi Fountain and that makes it a guarantee.

Up next... Barcelona. xo

Our Honeymoon: An evening in Roma...

2011-06-27T22:21:00.000-07:00

Upon returning from our weekend in Anzio we spent a relaxing day lounging around the house not doing much of anything. Then the sun went down and we decided to hop in the car and drive to the Trastevere for dinner. All the street lights in Rome are sodium vapor which gives everything a gorgeous glow. There's nothing like good lighting and the Italians do it well.

The Capital was dark, which was unusual and a bit eerie.

Our Honeymoon: Weekend by the sea...

2011-06-23T22:58:00.000-07:00

After spending many days exploring villages and downtown Rome, my family took us to their seaside house in Anzio which is about 35 miles south of Rome. We ate lots of good food and relaxed, it was perfect.

It felt like we had the ocean to ourselves {except for that one guy lying in the sand}.

More pasta, of course.

After lunch Ian wrote our names in the sand.

Always love the little cars.

Fountains like this are called "nasone" in Italian. I'm learning gradually.

Yummy pizza....again.

Our Honeymoon: Roma, Part II...

2011-06-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

You can't be in Rome without spending a day downtown so that is exactly what we did...

A peak at the Capital.

The whole Capital.

The always crowded Spanish Steps.

Posing with the Carabinieri.

The Pantheon.

A little pick me up from Sant Eustachio. They use water from an ancient Roman aqueduct!

Taking a little break on a make shift chair.

Marco had the same idea.

We then headed over to the Trevi Fountain so I could throw a coin in. I wholeheartedly believe that if you through a coin in it will ensure your return to Rome.

Here is the first time I threw a coin in two years ago...

and most recently...

After our day in Rome we went out for pizza with the whole family.

A delicious calzone.

The grandfather was quite a character.

It was beautiful to see how many laughs, hugs and kisses were exchanged saying ciao.

Our Honeymoon: Roma, Part I...

2011-06-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, have I missed this little blog! We returned from our honeymoon two weeks ago and had lots of stuff to sort out. I guess that's what happens when you're gone for 6 weeks. We also had to get situated back in our apartment which we sublet while we were away. It's been a bit of a challenge to get back into everyday life and come down from the excitement of going new places with no work to do. I'm gradually getting back into the swing of things and can't wait to share our adventures with you all!

Our honeymoon adventure began in Rome, Italy...one of my favorite places in the world. The first time we went to Rome two years ago we did all the touristy stuff. We visited the Colosseum, the Forum, the Spanish Steps, etc. This time we were meeting my Italian family for the first time. True Romans. They asked us what we wanted to do and we said we wanted to experience the true Italian lifestyle. With nothing else said they planned our whole holiday and took the whole week off work to be with us. To say it was spectacular would be an understatement.


Ah, the elusive Fiat 500. If I could drive any car in Rome it would be this one. My family - Marco, Marina & me at Monte Mario This is a mountain side village called Calcata. Lots of artistic hippy types reside here.


Parco di Veio - the road pictured is an original Roman road!


More of Parco di Veio


For dinner we had pasta...as the first course.

Yes, please!


Before dinner Marina taught me how to make authentic tiramisu.

Then she sweetly wrote our names on top.

Here is the recipe she shared with me. I jotted the recipe down from memory right after I made it... which is rather obvious. But I promise it will turn out well. So delish!!!

Homemade Roman Tiramisu

Ingredients:

4 Eggs (yolks divided from whites)
Container of mascarpone cheese (I don't remember how much exactly but whatever the container of mascarpone comes in is the right amount)
2 bags of hard lady fingers (1 bag may be enough depending on how big your dish is...we had to use about 1/2 of the second bag)
1 1/2 cups sugar
espresso (make enough to dip all your lady fingers in)
chocolate powder to dust on after (preferably Italian chocolate like Perugina Cacao)

Separate the egg yolks from the whites in two medium sized bowls. Add the sugar to the egg yolks, blend until creamy. Set aside. Beat egg whites until stiff. Gradually add the mascarpone to the egg yolk mixture, stir together with a spatula. Fold in egg whites (only the fluffy part). Lightly dip lady fingers in espresso and layer vertically in the bottom of your dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture on top. Then add another layer of espresso dipped lady fingers horizontally and add the remaining mascarpone. Refrigerate for no less than two hours. Once cold, before serving dust the chocolate powder on top generously.

Enjoy!!

Will post more of Rome shortly!

xoxo

I'm selling my wedding dress...

2011-04-27T03:45:00.000-07:00

I can't even begin to describe how much happiness this dress brought me but since I won't be wearing it again I have chosen to pass it on to someone else. Instead of sitting in my closet unworn I love the thought of it bringing someone else the happiness it brought me.

If you are interested feel free to email me.

Landing in London...

2011-04-23T06:39:00.000-07:00

We only spent a few hours at Heathrow airport (on our way to Rome) but we managed to find a decent place to order some fish and chips. They were so yummy it made me a little sad to leave England so soon. But I soon got over it when I remembered where we were going (to the land of pasta and tiramisu!). Besides we will be in England soon enough on the last leg of our journey.

We are currently half way through our 6 week European honeymoon (more on that soon). We spent a week in Italy, five days in Barcelona, three days in Lisbon, three days in the Algarve (where we are right now), then onto Greece tomorrow morning and possibly Vienna and Amsterdam or Paris before heading back to England for a week. There we will get our fill of fish and chips, Cornish pasty's, and anything with toffee in it (can't wait to get my hands on some banoffee pie!!).

Will be blogging about each place we visit shortly.

We said 'I do'...

2011-03-29T00:08:00.000-07:00

Ian & Juliet 3.26.2011 from Katy Schneiderman on Vimeo.

Could not be more excited to share some photos from our wedding this past weekend. Katy blew us out of the water with the images she captured. Best. Photographer. Ever. So happy!!!

One week to go....

2011-03-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

Only one week to go until our wedding!! I had to take a moment and share our engagement photos.

I have to go on a little bit about our photographer, Katy from I am chasing thirty. With all the wedding decisions I've made I feel like having her take our engagement and wedding photos is the best one by far. Besides being amazingly talented she is so interesting, stylish and sweet!!!! I could chat endlessly with her. So happy to have found a new friend!!

Thank you, Katy and Ari!! xoxo

The countdown begins...

2011-03-08T11:53:00.000-08:00

The countdown has officially begun. Only a couple weeks until we say 'I do'. So much to get done!!! So unbelievably excited!!!

Will be back to blog all about our wedding and 6 week European honeymoon shortly!!!

xxx,
Juliet

{photo: style me pretty}

Books and ballet flats...

2011-02-08T23:48:00.000-08:00

It's a book...

That's really a clutch!!

So cute, right?

An added bonus...when not in use you can store it on your bookshelf. Love!!

You can find them at the adorable Etsy store hoakonhelga.

Another thing I'm loving...

These gorgeous Maryjane ballet flats from Marais USA. I need them in both black and beige pronto!!

Gilded Elegance

2011-01-15T11:33:00.000-08:00

I can't believe we're almost halfway through January!! I also can't believe my wedding is two months away!!! I've been so busy with all the wedding details that I haven't been able to post as much as I'd like to on my little blog.

One thing on my to do list was to search for the perfect bracelet to wear on my wedding day. I knew I wanted to find something that was vintage and had an art deco look. The first place I searched was Etsy. There I happened to find the most wonderful vintage jewelry shop called Gilded Elegance. Burnita, the lady who owns the shop is the most wonderful woman to work with. She went went above and beyond to help me find the bracelet that would be best for me. After much debating I chose the first bracelet pictured. I'm so happy I found such a special piece of jewelry that I can wear not only on my wedding day but for a whole lifetime after. What made it even more special was the great experience I had purchasing it from Burnita. If you're shopping for your wedding jewelry or just looking for some gorgeous jewelry to add to your collection I highly recommend heading over to Gilded Elegance.

Now that I can cross that off my to do list I must get on to the next....

Disneyland at Christmas...

2010-12-21T00:34:00.000-08:00

I have been way behind in posting lately. Where do the hours in the day go? I can't believe Christmas is almost here! It's my favorite time of year and it's going by far too quickly.

Last week Ian and I went to Disneyland. It was a perfect day. I love watching all the kid's faces light up with excitement. I also love feeling like a kid again. Eating cotton candy while waiting in line for It's A Small World is a perfect way to achieve that.

Hope you all are having a wonderful holiday season!!!

Wedzu...

2010-12-01T15:05:00.000-08:00

The other day I discovered Wedzu through Sweet Emilia Jane's blog. It's like Etsy but entirely devoted to weddings!! I'm telling ya, they have some seriously gorgeous items. A great place to find handmade unique items that give your wedding that personal touch. I'm especially loving the corsaged wrap!!

{photo 1: Silk Chiffon Gown by Reddoll, photo 2: Black & White Runner by A Fabulous Fete, photo 3: Corsaged Silk Wrap by Bonzie}

Thanksgiving in photos (and phones)...

2010-11-29T16:29:00.000-08:00

I was kind of lazy this Thanksgiving. Meaning I did not cook. At all. Unless you want to count the Paleo cookies I made but no one likes them except me so they really don't count. If you're wondering what Paleo is click this link and read this book. Ian and I have been following this way of eating for about two months now and it has been life changing. Can't begin to tell you how much better I feel.

I'm getting side tracked, who wants to talk ~~diet~~ life style change when posting about Thanksgiving? Obviously, I do but I'm stopping.

Onto Thanksgiving in photos...

This is my sweet niece hard at work baking a pumpkin pie. Where am I you might ask?

Relaxing while on my phone.

Then my sweet niece caught on and got on her phone too. Who would be cooking then?

That would be my brother and sis-in-law. I even got in this photo (taking a break from my phone to have a drink). Any considerate person would ask if they needed any help, so I asked but before they could answer I said, "Okay, then if you need me I will be in the other room".

And just like that I was on my phone again. Reading something really interesting by the look of it.

This is when brother catches on, stops cooking and gets on his phone.

Yes, that's more like it! True Thanksgiving fun!!

Here is my other precious niece joining in the fun. Who's left to cook then? We would all be worried about this if we weren't so engrossed in our phones.

Ah, wonderful fiance takes over and saves the day with his cooking skills!!!

Yay!! Fiance! (I know this photo is out of focus, my fault, let's try to ignore)


Having some fun. This time it involves real human contact!

Finally posing for some proper photos with my lovely nieces.

DISCLAIMER: The above story was a dramatization. No cell phones were actually used for any long period of time by any of the above mentioned people. And Ian only cooked the veggies. My brother made the most delicious turkey and my sister in law made everything else. It was all delish!! Must give credit where credit is due.

The day before we went to my brother's gym to do a photo shoot and film some videos. He is a wonderful trainer who can whip anyone into shape. You know how you burn more fat doing intervals? Well, that is what he does, it is a technique called Tabata and it totally kicks ass. If you're in the Bakersfield area you should absolutely train with him!!!! Check out his website Sorci Fitness.

Here is the video...

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! Christmas here we come!!!

xoxo

Decorating your home with your closet...

2010-11-19T17:01:00.000-08:00

I'm kind of in love with how this apartment is decorated with treasures from the closet. I especially love using the wood log to hang coats.

And displaying shoes on shelves! LOVE! I also adore the wallpaper. Let's take a closer look...

Yes, that's it...SO LOVELY!

Onto the kitchen. Love the pop of color from the Kitchen Aid mixer and cookware.

And the magazine rack full of cookbooks, awesome. Might actually motivate me to cook. Might.

Now the bathroom. Another creative way to use a log or stick or whatever you call it.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!! xxx

{photos: classy and glamorous}

Backyard cottage...

2010-11-11T17:55:00.000-08:00

I really would love to have my own little cottage getaway just like this one in my backyard. Wait, that's right, I don't have a backyard. So first I would like a backyard.

{photos: Credit: Trevor Tondro for The New York Times via moodboard}

Emerson Made...

2010-11-05T01:49:00.000-07:00

I just discovered Emerson Made through Sydney's awesome blog and I have to say I want every item of clothing Emerson makes.

I feel like I am going through a transitional phase in my personal style. I recently had a good hard look at my closet and realized I'm holding on to things that don't suit me anymore. Blazers that I bought too large or trends that I fell prey to that I would never actually wear. I just recently sold a pair of lace up Uggs on eBay that I never wore because I thought they would look better in snowy weather. Well, it never snows here in Los Angeles (if only... sigh) so I have no idea what my attachment to them were. Other than I could imagine myself in a cozy cabin with Ian somewhere frigid and on that occasion I would have the perfect boots to wear. Um, yeah, not going to happen. So I'm gradually letting go of things which will make room for new things. And I would really love those new things to be from Emerson Made. All I need now is some disposable income.

For those of you who love Emerson Made as much as I do and can afford to buy some goodies there is a 20% off discount code when you enter EMsINSTYLE during checkout.

Note to self: don't spend must save, don't spend must save, don't spend must save.

Happy Halloween!!

2010-10-31T14:45:00.000-07:00

Hope you all are having a lovely, festive weekend!

Now it's time to get excited about Thanksgiving!! Woohoo!!!!!

xoxo

(Pumpkin by the Bergers, via Jordan Ferney)

Topping the cake...

2010-10-20T02:45:00.000-07:00

I love vintage wedding cake toppers. They carry so much charm. I especially love a really plain cake (two tiered and white) with only the cake topper on top. Simply, easy and affordable.

Pictured below is the one I found for our wedding on eBay along with a Fenton hobnob milk glass cake stand. (Just imagine there is a yummy cake in between.)

{photos 1-3 ritzy bee, 4 jessica johnston, 5 my own}

Watch this now...

2010-10-18T04:46:00.000-07:00

www.thewildernessdowntown.com

Click on the above link, enter the address of your childhood home, sit and watch. AMAZING!!!!

Fall style...

2010-10-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

I have a trench coat, I don't need another...but I really want one with puff sleeves.


Loving the cognac boots against black.

A rad, unique black dress.

A cute pair of booties from Topshop.

And finally girlie lace ballet flats.

{photos: zara, tfs, ruby boutique, topshop}

Happy October!!

2010-10-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

October is one of my favorite months. I love the fall weather (which is finally kicking in here in LA, woohoo!!!). I love carving pumpkins and making soup and hearing the rain fall and baking cookies for Halloween.

I remember in grade school we would start doing holiday arts and crafts around this time. It was always my favorite part of the day. I would be focusing intensely on completing my construction paper pumpkin (or whatever we were making) and the excitement of the upcoming holidays would make me so giddy and happy. I think it is so important to recreate those feelings as an adult. It is so easy to get caught up in the stress of everyday life to not take time for the little things. Which is why I will be taking time to carve pumpkins, make paper ghosts, eat far too much candy (Although, I do that no matter what time of year it is) and enjoy every last minute of this kick ass season.

Happy October!!!!!!

{photo: belle maison}

Anthropologie...

2010-09-27T12:32:00.000-07:00

Perfect fall dress

The ultimate in femininity


More ruffles, I love them


A perfect everyday bag


Everyday bag + sequins = brilliant

{Anthropologie}

Shabby Chic...

2010-09-22T15:39:00.000-07:00

I thought I was over the whole shabby chic look. Turns out, I'm not.

{photos: shabby chic}

What I want...

2010-09-19T02:35:00.000-07:00


Mulberry Alexa Bag


Alexa Chung with her namesake bag. Sigh.


Topshop Leather Motorcycle Jacket


RayBan Aviators

That's it for now. Where's Santa when you need him?

Last days of summer...

2010-09-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

There is something so freeing about getting on a bike with no particular place to go. I remember as a kid clinging on to the last days of summer. I would get on my bike and ride around for hours. I loved feeling the warmth in the air and I would always try to appreciate every single moment.

Here's to hoping you're enjoying the end of summer and looking forward to a festive fall season.

{photos: oh so beautiful paper, daydream lily}

A tearjerker...

2010-09-02T18:56:00.000-07:00

Danny & Annie from StoryCorps on Vimeo.

Absolutely nothing original coming from me today. I'm a little under the weather trying to feel better by reading some of my favorite blogs. This one comes from A Cup of Jo. If you feel like a good cry there is no faster way to get there than to watch this video. Now all I have to do is watch "Up" and I will have puffy eyes for days.

{Animated by StoryCorps, via Very Short List}

Simple and true...

2010-09-02T18:24:00.000-07:00

Spotted on the lovely blog, Fairy Tales Are True. So inspiring. Kind of like The Sunscreen Song. Words to live by.

A wedding trailer...

2010-08-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

This wedding video is just...wow. From Coco Rocha's gorgeous wedding.

Someday...

2010-08-25T16:19:00.000-07:00

Someday when I have kids I want to give them the coolest bunk bed with drapes.

I want to showcase their beautiful artwork just like this.

And surprise them with the most beautiful playhouse in the backyard. Or maybe I just want to be a kid again myself.

{photos: lonely pie, erin ever after, belle maison}

Magnolia vs. Duncan Hines...

2010-08-18T12:16:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Magnolia Bakery opened up here in Los Angeles. I was extremely curious to see what the fuss was all about, so I stood in the long line on opening day to find out. As soon as Ian and I got our cupcakes we headed to the park to sit and enjoy them.

Yummy.

In deliberation on my opinion of the cupcake.

So I must take another bite (or stuff my face as the evidence shows).

Now for the chocolate one...

Want a bite?

A kiss to the photographer for waiting in the ridiculously long line with me.

My verdict; I know many of you out there will disagree with me, but I thought the cupcakes lacked taste. I tend to like things pretty sweet and these cupcakes tasted extremely buttery but lacked sweetness. Maybe it was because I was overwhelmed with the butter to taste anything else. It left me wanting more, wanting the cupcakes I hoped these would be.

The quickest solution was to get some Duncan Hines yellow cake mix and milk chocolate creamy frosting in a tub and make them myself. It was a sure thing and I couldn't gamble with cupcakes any longer.

Obviously, I don't need to post the recipe because it's on the back of the box.

Heat that oven up.

Nearly done...

Finito!!

Beyond delicious and another added bonus? Sixteen cupcakes for the price of two Magnolia cupcakes. Not that price matters when dealing with sweets.

Paris and polaroids part dix...

2010-08-12T11:34:00.000-07:00

Another indulgent breakfast.

Followed by a day at the Louvre

Winged Victory

The Venus de Milo (or most of her)

Au voir Paris, I will miss you dearly but hope to visit again soon. Thank you everyone for letting me share these wonderful memories with you!!

Paris and polaroids part neuf...

2010-08-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

When I saw the movie "Something's Gotta Give" and saw the dinner scene that takes place at Le Grand Colbert I knew someday I'd have to visit.

Can't decide what to order...

so I'll pose for a picture instead.

I decided to have a French experience and eat escargot (pictured), frog legs and beef tartar. Can't say I'd order those things again but it was fun to try.

After dinner we walked around the Opéra de Paris...

and kissed.

Paris and polaroids part huit...

2010-08-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

Shopping!!!

Inside the glorious Galeries Lafayette (I swear I could hear angels singing "ahhhhh" as I walked in).

Trying my best to speak French. I'm saying, "Do you have Repetto black ballet flats in a size 40?"

They didn't have my shoes so we did some sight seeing. Le Arc de Triomphe.

And the Moulin Rouge

Back to shopping. Looking for the cool concept store Colette, which was super disappointing.

Yes, that may be a monument of Napoleon behind me but what's really important in this photo is the bag I'm carrying on my right shoulder. You can't see it, but in that bag are the elusive Repetto ballet slippers I had been searching for all day. Mission accomplished.

Paris and polaroids part sept...

2010-08-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

My daily ritual of going downstairs to the boulangerie and getting one of everything.

The French do not eat this way, hence the bewildered look on the Frenchman's face.

That doesn't stop me, I am going to enjoy my yummy pastries... but first I will pose with them.

Later on we buy some bread and cheese at the market and take a nice walk down the streets of Paris.

Then we picnic along the water with Parisians.

We play petanque and drink pastis...

... and watch the sun go down. A perfect, relaxing Parisian day.

Paris and polaroids part six {Champs Elysees}...

2010-07-28T11:26:00.000-07:00

Chic Chanel

Pretty Dior (love those bikes you can rent to ride around the city).

World famous macaroons at Laduree... so yummy.

A forbidden shot of the delicious treats in Laduree.

Louis Vuitton

Hermes (perfect with the French flag waving above).

Beautiful buildings, beautiful streets, beautiful people... everything about Paris is breathtaking.

Paris and polaroids part cinq (Versailles edition)...

2010-07-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hall of mirrors

Marie Antoinette's room (loving the headphones).

We took this picture ourselves... pretty impressive.

Taking an ice cream break.

So focused on eating ice cream I don't even notice I spilled it down the front of me.

Dinner time

The best part of any meal and a perfect end to a wonderful day. Let them eat cake...and souffle...and bread pudding.

Paris and polaroids part trois...

2010-07-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

La Seine

Raphael (otherwise known as Frenchie) and Francois showing us around.

Notre Dame

Inside Notre Dame

Pretending this Vespa is mine (I really should've worn cuter shoes).

Following Frenchie to lunch.

Following Frenchie to the Louvre.

Courtyard of the Louvre.

Paris and polaroids part deux...

2010-07-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Ian and our wonderful, dear friend, Raphael. Without Raph we would have been lost. He opened up his home to us, interpreted everything, helped me find some amazing clothes and gave us a glimpse of true Parisian life. Thank you Raph, we love you!!

Place de la Bastille

A stolen kiss in the most romantic city

So happy

View from the Eiffel Tower at sunset

View from the Eiffel Tower at night

Paris and polaroids part un...

2010-07-21T09:00:00.001-07:00

This week I thought I would share some photos from my trip to Paris, one of my favorite place on earth. Joie de vie!!

The prettiest flower stand

A delicious boulangerie

Montmartre

Sacré Coeur

I want...

2010-07-20T12:29:00.000-07:00

... to throw my hair up in a messy french twist, wear liquid liner, false eyelashes, put on something chic and black and go somewhere fabulous {preferably in Paris}.

{photos: classy and glamorous, oh so beautiful paper}

Wedding love...

2010-07-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Love the dress {Carolina Herrera}, love the flowers {Flowerwild}, love the venue {Marvimon}.

{photos: Marlin Munoz via Style Me Pretty}

A little "pink" me up...

2010-07-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

How perfect would it be to make a yummy breakfast in this kitchen...

then hop is this car for a little shopping...

perhaps for a dress like this...

Yes, pink cheers me right up.

{photos: Bruce Hemming via desire to inspire, london bride, topshop}

Take those old records off the shelf...

2010-07-13T19:35:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with these rad mixed tape pouches by Brave Moonman after seeing them on sfgirlbybay. And if a mixed tape wasn't awesome enough...

You can also carry around an original Nintendo control pad pouch. Makes me want to play Mario Brothers right now. Oh, and Duck Hunt!! That's it, I need a hot tub time machine pronto so I can visit the 80's (but only for, like, a day or two).

Adorable...

2010-07-13T14:10:00.000-07:00

This photo was so darn cute that I just had to post it immediately. Happy Tuesday!!

{photo: jak and jil}

Birthday Recap...

2010-07-12T12:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm another year older and it was a great birthweek. I believe everyone should celebrate their birthday for a week minimum. Here is what mine looked like...

It started out with a trip to Bakersfield to pick up my birthday cake.

Smith's Bakery is (in my opinion) the best bakery in the world. I have had a Smith's birthday cake for every birthday so far. One year when I was living in Florida, my mom shipped one to me on dry ice. What makes it so great, you might ask. Simple, it's all in the frosting and I'm a frosting girl. I have never come across anything that even comes close to how good this frosting is. If I had to choose a last meal on earth, it would be a Smith's chocolate marble sheet cake with tons of frosting. Okay, I realize I am becoming a bit redundant so I will move on.

After we picked up my birthday cake we went to my favorite restaurant in Bakersfield, Mexicali. I was way too focused on consuming the guacamole and shredded beef tacos to remember to take any pictures.

The next night Ian surprised me with an amazing Greek meal with friends followed by a game of indoor Wiffle Ball.

The next morning I woke up to this...

and this...

There is nothing better than a morning full of sweet messages and birthday cake for breakfast.

After I felt sufficiently full of sugar we made our way to Santa Barbara. At first we went out to the beach.

Then we realized that we don't really like sitting on the beach (especially when wearing a pretty white dress). So we went to go see our dear friends on their beautiful sailboat.

Feeling happy.

Followed by a great fireworks show in the arms of the man I love.

A few days later we went to the Hollywood Bowl for some classical music and fireworks.

It was a fantastic week. Thank you for the sweet birthday messages!! xoxoxo

Happy 4th of July weekend!!

2010-07-02T10:43:00.000-07:00

Yay!! I'm very excited for this weekend. Not only is it the 4th of July but it is also my birthday!

When I was a little girl my parents used to tell me the fireworks were all for me. I believed them for a ridiculously long time. I may be a bit wiser now (let's hope) but every year I gaze up at the fireworks, take a moment close my eyes, make a wish for my new year and secretly pretend the fireworks are still all for me.

Will post many photos from my weekend next week. What are your plans for this nice long weekend? Happy 4th of July!!!! xoxo

{photos: Amanda Pratt via dress design decor}

Rustic engagement shoot...

2010-07-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

How gorgeous is this engagement shoot? Not to mention the couple!! As soon as I saw these photos I knew I had to post them all. Amazing.

P.S. If you like those props they used in the photos you can rent them yourself at Vintage Rentals. Oh, the possibilities.

{photos: emp via grey likes weddings}

Happy first weekend of summer!!

2010-06-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

These images remind me of summers spent playing in my backyard as a kid. It was such a magical time full of make believe with endless possibilities.

My favorite part was being greeted home after a long day of playing (games included kick the can, packed sardines, hide and seek) with the smell of my mom's famous fruit cobbler baking in the oven. It brought me such a warm feeling of safety and love.

What are some of your favorite summer memories? Hope you all have a lovely summer! Bring on the cobbler!!

{photos: jillian sun}

In love with Tuscany...

2010-06-21T12:12:00.000-07:00

Today I am daydreaming of packing up all the stuff that means the most to us, putting it in storage, selling the rest and taking off for an around the world trip. One stop would be to Tuscany. Last year we were lucky enough to explore some parts and I fell in love with the land, the people and the food. Here are some photos...

Siena

Pisa

Lucca

Florence

Give me some sugar...

2010-06-08T21:23:00.000-07:00

After seeing these yummy cookie sandwiches over at Frenchie and Flea I knew I had to drop everything and start baking. At least my trip to the gym was blown for a good reason.

First you get these ingredients...

Then you realize that you got the whipped frosting instead of the thicker yummier buttercream frosting. At this time you weigh out your options.

Option 1: Use the whipped cream frosting, it won't be as good but at least you don't have to go to the store again (this is not the correct option).

Option 2: Put your shoes back on and run across the street to the store (hmm...not ideal since you're feeling a bit lazy and still have lots of baking to do).

Option 3: Ask your fiance very nicely to run across the street to pick up the correct frosting for you (ding ding ding we have a winner!!)

Since I couldn't find the Funfetti Cookie mix that you're supposed to use in this semi-homemade recipe I used the cake mix instead and followed the cookie directions that are on the side of the box. Then I frosted them and stuck them together. After that's done you melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle them on top of the cookies. For the finishing touch add the sprinkles and voila! you've got yourself sugary treat. So sugary, in fact, that "they make your teeth hurt" Ian's words not mine. That means it's just the right amount of sweet for me. They are so good I am eating them while writing this post. Here are the yummy photos...

Another cute engagement shoot...

2010-06-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

How cute is this engagement session from photographer Leigh Miller? I know that the quilt is pretty trendy right now but I still think it's awesome (along with the Ban.Do headband and pick-up truck, love love love!).

Reminds me that we need to get some engagement photos done ourselves sometime soon. I've been terribly behind on things lately so maybe we'll opt for some "After I Do" photos instead. Hmm... haven't really decided yet. What are some of your favorite engagement photo looks/themes?

Happy 101...

2010-06-02T14:04:00.000-07:00

Sweet Sarah gave me the Happy 101 award on her awesome blog Fairy Tales Are True. Thank you so much, Sarah!!

And now I'm passing it on to:

i am chasing thirty

M loves M

siriously delicious

Dog N' Bird Artful Wedding

some kind of style

Happy, Happy!!

Beauty Bus...

2010-05-27T15:35:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was fortunate enough to attend the Beauty Bus Foundation's first Beauty Drive. The Beauty Bus Foundation is a wonderful non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the home bound, chronically and terminally ill people and their primary caregivers by bringing beauty into their lives.

I have to say it was the best fund raising event I've ever been to. Guests indulged in a variety of beauty treatments at the Beauty Drive’s “stations”, which included professional make up applications, hair styling and manicures. It reminded me that the little things in life that bring you joy aren't really little at all.

Getting your hair done, your make-up applied or your nails painted are all wonderful ways to feel beautiful and special but what's really amazing is the human connection that takes place. After the nail polish wears away and the make up is washed off what stays with you are the people. The small laughs over eye shadow colors, the stories told, sharing experiences and everyday moments with one another. These are the things that keep us happy and alive. I couldn't believe more in a foundation that brings these essential moments to people who need to be reminded of the beauty and love not only around them but in them.

To learn more visit www.beautybus.org.

I left my heart in Europe...

2010-05-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

This time last year we spent two weeks in Paris and then we spent another two weeks in...

Italy. Swoon. I am desperate to return. I was one click away from booking tickets yesterday and then I chickened out. Today might be the day I follow through, especially after looking at these lovely photos. Stay tuned.

{photos: we heart it, bloom-grow-love, dress design & decor, apartment 34}

Build a bike...

2010-05-19T10:44:00.000-07:00

I didn't even really want a bike until I saw that you can build your own at Urban Outfitters. I found myself on their site experimenting with different colors and details wondering what my perfect bike would look like. I have no intention of buying one...yet. I have to say the cute basket almost tips the scale. Here's my vision...

I can see myself early on a Saturday morning (not really... I never like early Saturday mornings but for the sake of the my cute little vision let's stay with it) I throw on a pair of capri jeans, a Breton striped tee and sneakers. I then throw my hair in a care free pony a la Brigitte Bardot, grab some big sunnies and am out the door to ride my cute little retro bike to the local farmer's market. I excitedly purchase fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers to fill my new bike basket. On my way home I stop by a French cafe for an espresso and croissant which I eat on a table outside while I peruse the paper with my sweet bike parked beside me. Passerby's stop to admire my beautiful bike and ask where in the world I found such a treasure. One young man even asks to take the little beauty for a spin. I apologize and say no. I know the temptation to ride off with it would be too great for him and I can't take any chances. I then get back on my bike and leisurely ride home. I feel the warm sun beating down on me and the cool breeze through my hair. I close my eyes for a moment to take it all in and I feel grateful for this moment that this glorious bike has brought me.

Unfortunately, I have to be honest with myself... in reality the bike would be parked in my garage most of the time taking up too much space. So I will have to pass for now. One can always dream.

Kimono robes...

2010-05-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

Today I am lusting over these gorgeous kimono robes from Plum Pretty Sugar Loungerie. Years ago I fell in love with an amazing kimono robe from Anthropologie but couldn't convince myself it was worth the $200+ price tag. From time to time I would still think about that robe wishing I could find something similar. My mouth dropped yesterday when I stumbled upon Plum Pretty Sugar's Etsy store. Everything I was looking for in a robe and only $62!! Sold! And so worth the wait.

Bridal bouquets...

2010-05-14T16:20:00.000-07:00

Here's my little collection of bridal bouquets that I think are lovely. I'm still undecided on what kind I want to carry on my wedding day. Right now the 1st and 3rd are my favorite. What do you think? Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!

{photos: boutwell studio, 100 layer cake, once wed, ritzy bee, la partie events, the budget savvy bride}

A pretty dress + a polaroid camera...

2010-05-11T11:06:00.000-07:00

I'm swooning over this bride's dress. So glamorous and unique. And the images? Taken with a Polaroid 600 SE camera by Sarah Yates. A pricey little camera but worth it when it creates photos like these.

{photos: Sarah Yates}

Backyard beautiful...

2010-05-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

I get so much inspiration from these stunning images from Sarah Yates. If only I had a backyard like this to throw a wedding in. I'm really loving the long dark wood tables without any tablecloths. Just gorgeous.

{photos: Sarah Yates}

Cleaning out my closet...

2010-05-07T17:59:00.000-07:00

I have been super busy cleaning out my closet and taking pictures of items I want to sell on eBay. I can't believe how many things still have the price tag attached! I can see now how guilty I am of buying things to wear after I lose 5 lbs or for the time I want to wear something super sexy, etc. Guess what, the 5 lbs never came off and the sexy stuff just wasn't me. From now on I'm sticking to buying clothes that are for me in the now. Lesson learned.

Since I have been using my camera non-stop, I thought I'd post some photos of cameras. It's silly how drawn I am to pictures with cameras in them. Alright, my break is over...back to picture taking. Happy Friday!! Hope you all have a beautiful weekend!

{photos: we heart it}

Cupcake accessories...

2010-05-04T13:02:00.000-07:00

So sweet for little girls - or big girls.

Perfect for the little robot lover.

Beautiful for a shower or a wedding.

How adorable are these cupcake kits? I love them. I will definitely be getting the ballerina kit. A perfect excuse to make cupcakes. Like I needed an excuse. You can find them here.

{photos: shop meri meri via daydream lily}

Sitting in a tree...

2010-04-29T17:13:00.000-07:00

I just had to post this adorable photo. I need to find a similar tree so I can take a picture just like it.

{photo: brion hopkins}