Happy Weekend!

 

 via Fluent Theories

-a.e.h.  

DIY Bridal Shower

I threw a bridal shower for my Best Friend, Whitney, this past weekend.  I couldn't wait to share some of the pictures with you.  Whitney is very laid back, natural, and has a great sense of style (she is a personal shopper for JCrew).  I really wanted to incorporate all of those things into the shower to make it more personalized.  I hope you enjoy this peek at all of the details!



I love to cook, but I hate to bake so I always order my cakes when I am doing events.  I ordered a 10 inch cake and an 8 inch cake with buttercream icing and no trim. Since they usually charge more for tiered cakes it is an easy money saver to order two smaller cakes and assemble yourself. To decorate the cake I bought several small containers of succulents. I cleaned them in the sink by pulling them out of their containers and snipping the stem down to a quarter of an inch- just enough to be able to stick into the cake.  I gave them a good soap and water bath and then positioned them all of the cake. If you cut the stem too short, simply stick a toothpick down the center of the remaining stem and then position onto the cake. 



I wanted Whitney to be able to take something home from the shower that was really special so I had everyone write her advice, funny memories, and words of encouragement.  I cut out the banner from a roll of kraft paper and then used acrylic paint for the lettering.  I attached it to a cork board that I made earlier this year. 

I always use The Happy Envelope for my invitations.  They are wonderful! 
If you are a bride-to-be, contact them!

We made terrariums out of apothecary jars and mixed them with terracotta plants full of rosemary and lavender and tea cups filled with succulents. 

To make the custom champagne labels I soaked the bottles in warm, soapy water for 1 hour.  I used a scouring pad to scrape the part of the label that wouldn't peel off.  I cut out rectangles out of kraft paper and used acrylic paint to make the design. I used a spray adhesive to attach the label to the bottle.

Shop the brides look here: Dress, necklace

-a.e.h.

Inspired: A First Name Written in Monograms

When I saw Leandra of The Man Repeller post a picture of the monogrammed sweatshirt Glamour Magazine had gifted her during fashion week I was hooked.  I love the idea of spelling out your first name with different groupings of monograms.  It is a fresh spin on the old classic. Just buy a plain sweatshirt and take it to your local embroidery shop.  I will definitely be wearing this look for fall.  Layer the sweatshirt over a colorful blouse and throw on a sparkly collar necklace for good measure. 

What do you think of these monogrammed sweatshirts?  Would you wear this look?

-a.e.h. 

Currently Obsessed

Green Satin Dress / Chanel Bag / Polka Dot Blouse 

Tent / Brass Vanity Mirror / Life Notebooks

Leopard Print Heels / Gold Link Bracelet / Lip Crayon / Perfume 

Fringe Clutch / The New Satorialist Book / Gold Leaf Vases / Organic Hair Powder

I love sharing my latest obsessions with my readers so I always get excited when I am working on a "currently obsessed" post. I couldn't wait to tell you all about my latest beauty find (via Birchbox).  Lulu Organics Hair Powder.  I am a huge fan of dry shampoo- honestly, it is a life saver most mornings and adds great texture to your hair.  I was shocked when I discovered that most dry shampoos have carcinogenic properties (yuck!). Lulus smells amazing and is all natural. I am considering wearing the emerald green dress to my best friend's rehearsal dinner.  I really love the color and the shape is so simple and chic! 

-a.e.h.

Wish List

My friends know I love lady-like accessories, and that I really love my tweed. To avoid looking like one of The Golden Girls, I mix these  "grown-up" accessories with edgier pieces. I came across these bow tassel earrings yesterday. They are less than $15.00 and completely adorable. This yellow tweed jacket is on the top of my wish list.  It reminds me of an updated version of Cher's yellow plaid jacket from Clueless. I would wear the jacket over this black and white polka-dot blouse with a pair of skinny black pants....leather pants or shorts would be even better.  

Follow me on pinterest to see everything on my Wish List! 

-a.e.h.

The Fit & Flare Dress

When Net-a-Porter speaks I listen, and I felt that it was my duty to share what they are calling, "the dress silhouette of the season". Because of the comfortable fit, this silhouette is great to take from day to night.  Find a fit and flare dress for every budget.  

Check out the ..Splurge...or the...Steal.

Shop more fit & flare looks below...

-a.e.h.

Creature Feature

 Take a cue from the animal kingdom this season and add some of these playful pieces to your home or wardrobe. I think it is important to use fun and humorous touches to express yourself through dress or decor.  I especially love fun, animal inspired jewelry.  The fishbone earrings are my fave.  Wearing them shows that you don't take yourself too seriously.

Giraffe Plate / Rhino Journal / French Hen Sweater

Velvet Fox Slippers / Gold Bee Belt / Fox Makeup Case

Crocodile Candle / Foo Dog Pillow with Tassel / Bug Earrings

Fish Bone Earrings / Mickey Mouse Sunnies / Gold Ram Bracelet / Elephant Lamp

-a.e.h.

Orange Crush

Necklace / Pants / Handbag 

Blazer / Laptop Case / Dress

Blush / Sunglasses / Mini Skirt / Ring

In honor of the first University of Tennessee (my alma mater) football game this Friday I decided to feature one of my favorite colors.  Orange.  I recommend layering it with leopard. 

If you are on the hunt for even more game day gear- I created a pinterest board dedicated to all things orange and there is something for every budget.  Trust me, I know how hard it can be to find attractive orange clothes for game days.  

Go Vols!

-a.e.h.

Don't Break the Bank: Fall Finds for $100 or Less

Leopard Print Scarf / Yellow Bracelet / Leopard Print Heels

On the Model: Grey Cable Knit Sweater / Grey Tee / Pink Cropped Pants

Blue Quilted Bag / Color Block Cardi

Piped Blazers / Green Loafers / Watch / Polka-Dot Sweater / Tortoise Shell Earrings 

Everyone can afford to spruce up their fall wardrobe with these colorful finds.  My favorite is the pink cropped pants and the best part is they are less than $50!  

Want to see more great finds for under $100?  I am always updating my pinterest board with frugal fashion. 

-a.e.h. 

Wedding Feature on Watson-Studios Blog

I had the honor of planning (and participating) one of my closest friends' weddings last month.   It was a perfect wedding weekend and Caroline was gorgeous! I love working with great photographers so it is always a treat when I get to work with Natalie and Dan from Watson-Studios.  They are an amazingly talented husband and wife duo who are a blast to be around. They produce truly stunning images and have a way of really capturing the emotions of the day.  Head on over to their blog to see Part 1 of Caroline and Peach's wedding! 

All of us in our Plum Pretty Sugar Robes
 Photo by Watson-Studios




Enjoy!

-a.e.h.

Inspired: Honey of a Thousand Flowers

I wanted to share some of Sarah Winward's (of Honey of a Thousand Flowers) beautiful floral designs.  I am completely in awe of her talent and ability to transform flowers into a work of art.  I love the natural, organic style of her arrangements. 

Aren't they lovely?

Don't forget to follow me on Pinterest to see what else is inspiring me!

-a.e.h.

Postcards from Paris

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11

-a.e.h.

Bridal Style: Wedding Dress

I always tell brides that the most important thing to remember while shopping for a dress for the big day is to stay true to their style.  A bride wants to look like the very best version of herself walking down the aisle, not a different person.  Choosing the perfect wedding dress can feel extremely overwhelming. So, to help all the brides-to-be out there, I wanted to share a few of my current favorites. 

The Bohemian Bride / Fun & Flirty / Classic & Modern 

Simple & Chic / Timeless & Traditional 

For more wedding inspiration follow me on Pinterest!

-a.e.h.

Currently Obsessed

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10

-a.e.h.

Don Gallo Mexican Grill

This past Friday, my good friend Katie (of Pearls & twirls) and I were invited to one of our favorite spots- Don Gallo Mexican Grill- to try out some of their new menu items.  Let me preface this by saying that I am from Texas, and I am very particular about my Mexican food so I feel super lucky to have authentic Mexican in the heart of Knoxville!  The atmosphere is great and the patio, which is strung with bistro lights, is a perfect spot for dinner and drinks with friends.  I am still craving the Especial Don Goyo!  It is Top sirloin steak, chicken strips, shrimp, chorizo, and fajita vegetables grilled to perfection and topped with melted cheese in a molcajete (stone bowl). Served with Mexican rice, refried beans and tortillas. Delicious!  Wash it down with one of their amazing cocktails (I reccomend the sangria margarita or the tincho).  The Tincho is New Age wine + lime, served over ice.  It is such a great summer drink because it is so light and refreshing!

I'm starved after sharing these pictures- I'm sure you are too!  Be sure to visit Don Gallo Mexican Grill and try out their new menu.  You won't be dissapointed! 

Enjoy!

-a.e.h.

Loving the Look: Crop Top + High Waist

I must admit that I have always been a fan of 1950s glamour.  At the age of 6 I vividly remember trying to emulate Wendy Peffercorn's (Sandlot) sleek blonde ponytail and red lips, and my biggest style icons were the ladies from Grease.  Fast forward 20 years, and I am still inspired by 1950s style.  Lucky for me, the S/S 2012 runways were filled with styles reminiscent of the era.  The high-waisted skirt paired with a midriff-baring top is one of my favorite trends this season. 

I wore this look at my friend's bachelorette party this past weekend in Atlanta.  I have a fairly traditional style so when I am incorporating a new trend into my wardrobe I try to stay true to that.  I buy clothes with more adventurous shapes or silhouettes in basic colors like black, white, cream, grey, and I buy clothes with really loud color (i.e. neon) or exotic patterns in classic shapes. 

Shop the crop top here and the peplum skirt here. 

Enjoy!


-a.e.h.

Wish List: Special Birthday Edition

HUE by Kelly Wearstler / Fashion Survival Kit / Tom Ford Nail Lacquer

Jonathan Adler Needlepoint Pillow / Lulie Wallace Painting / L'Objet Crocodile Candle

Ring / Dom Perignon / Lamp 

Hint, hint. 

-a.e.h.

Wish List: Sheer Cover Up Dress

All this warm weather has got me looking ahead to some fun trips I have planned with the girls this summer.  I have been on the search for cover ups and fell in love with this long sheer dress (also comes in grey & blue).  I love the design with the super low back and the sheer silk fabric is so airy and light.  The subtle stripes on the fabric are perfect!

If you want to stay up to date on all my favorite finds be sure to follow me on Pinterest & Currently Obsessed.  I love having new followers! I am constantly adding to my pages, and I would love for you to see!

-a.e.h.

Spruce Up Your Home for Spring

When you are living in your home day-in & day-out it is easy to become bored your with decor.  Changing a few items in your home each season helps bring your home to life. By simply adding a couple of fun pillows, a spunky shower curtain, or colorful napkins you are energizing your home!  You will be amazed at the difference these minor changes will make.  For spring and summer don't be scared to add some pops of color. I picked a few items that will help spruce up your home for spring- take a look!

I recently purchased this Elisabeth Michael shower curtain in a coral chevron pattern to add color to my grey bathroom.  I found mine on One Kings Lane (if you are not a member you must join!) but you can shop her Esty store for great pillows, shower curtains and drapes.

Adding seasonal elements to a tablescape is one of my favorite things and is so easy to do! When I was in Gift Gourmet & Interiors last month I came across these seersucker napkins by Kim Seybert and fell in love!  The seersucker with the neon stitching is perfect for a spring table.  Add even more color to your table with these colorful bamboo utensils.  They are available in tons of hues and with a price tag of only $9 for a set of three they won't break the bank.

Stack a few of these colorful lacquered boxes from the container store on your desk or end table.  Really make an impact by stacking varying sizes in one color. The orange reminds me of hermes boxes!

Chic Shop LA is a great place to find unique pieces on the internet.  Their hand painted pillows liven up a stuffy room.  Add a finial to the top of a lamp for a super quick change.  They have tons of choices- my favorite is the turquoise!   

Jonathan Adler has so many pieces that will liven up a home, but I am dying over this lacquered orange queen anne mirror. 

Enjoy!

-a.e.h.

Flat Sandals Under $70!

Now that spring is officially here I can finally let my toes breathe!  Since it is rare that a pair of  sandals last me more than one season (I am very hard on shoes) I am always looking for shoes that won't break the bank.  Here is a roundup of some of my favorite flat sandals- all under $70! 

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10

Let the sandal shopping begin!

-a.e.h.

A Fiesta Themed Bridal Shower: Part 2

For Caroline's shower I used an assortment of Mexican inspired vases, tequila bottles, and ceramic pots to hold the crepe paper flowers.   I ordered an assortment of flowers from Amols in San Antonio (amazing place for fiesta goods) and made the rest of the flowers out of colorful card stock.   

The adorable little bride with her sombrero veil on!

We brought a few packs of mustaches for photo ops

Thanks to everyone who came to the shower!

-a.e.h.

A Fiesta Themed Bridal Shower: Part 1

Yesterday I had the pleasure of hosting a bridal shower with three of my best friends.  We decided on a fiesta theme for Caroline's shower and wanted it to have a very laid back feel.  We chose Chez Guevara as the location for its whimsical charm and delicious food.  Instead of creating a custom dinner we allowed guest to order off of the full menu.  This worked really well for us, but I do not recommend for groups over 30.  Creating a custom menu narrows down choices and speeds up the ordering process.  We had the tables pre-set with all of the essentials (salsa, queso and pitchers of margaritas) so the guests could start digging in right away!  


We ordered a plain two-tiered strawberry cake
 from Sugar Buzz Bakers & added the decor ourselves.  
Sugar Buzz cakes are AMAZING!! The Mexican crepe
paper flowers were ordered from Amols in San Antonio.

I made this cake topper by stringing pom pom balls
with a needle and thread and attaching to two
bamboo sticks.

Striped straws from Shop Sweet Lulus margaritas.
I actually forgot these in my car :(

We used a long table to seat everyone and brought in
our own cream linens to set it apart from the other
restaurant tables.



Check back tomorrow for more party pics!

-a.e.h.