Moving On Up

Sorry for the delay but today is moving day. See you tomorrow!

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xoxo

PS

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

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Party Favors:

Only in Grand Rapids would you find this

DIY Photo Booth idea

A yummy snack that will make you smile

Creative and cute photography

Brilliant idea for using chalkboard paint

xoxo

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Fab 5: Beauty Products

I could spend hours browsing a drugstore or Sephora's make-up section finding new face products or testing a new lip color. And although I love trying new products I always remain loyal to these five products that I just can't do without. Here are my fab 5 beauty product picks: 

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1. The Secret Camouflage concealer from Laura Mercier is super versatile and hides all those minor imperfections.

2. I've been using Bare Escentuals foundation for years now and I've never looked back. It's a miracle worker that's actually good for your skin.

3. NARS blush in Orgasm is a universally flattering color for any skin tone. It gives you just the right amount of pink/peach color to your cheeks.

4. M.A.C. Fluidline is the best eyeliner for getting the ultra smooth line and soft or dramatic look you're trying to achieve. 

5. The LashBlast Fusion mascara from Covergirl is one of my absolute favorites. It gives you volume and staying power throughout the day and washes off easy at night. 

xoxo

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Weekly Pick: Jess LC

I'm completely smitten with the new line of tote bags, appropriately named the Lake Shore, from local Chicago designer Jess LC. The canvas totes with a leather bottom and the signature logo is sure to make your other totes jealous. I'm adding this Lake Shore collection to my wish list (especially considering my new address). You also must check out her line of fabulous jewelry (Ali Fedotowski from the Bachelorette is a big fan). And if that wasn't enough she also has an amazing blog Makeunder My Life that I would highly encourage you to read.

xoxo

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J is for: Jute Tote Bags

A perfect beach bag can be hard to find considering the long list of necessities needed for a day in the sun and sand. This summer you can do no wrong with a stylish and practical jute tote bag that's big enough to carry around a fun beach towel,  some much needed sunscreen, a good book, your extra large sunglasses and maybe a drink or two. 

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You can find a similar look with these picks:

This jute tote from Walmart is under $25 and completely beach worthy. 

If you're channeling a preppy vibe check out this alligator jute tote on Etsy.

xoxo

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What I'm Reading Now: Things I Never Knew

Think you know everything? Well, think again and start reading Things I Never Knew. It's clever, insightful and written by one of my best friends. You'll learn that the Baltimore Ravens were actually named after Edgar Allen Poe's poem "The Raven" and find that the most important thing you ever do in life is build and maintain relationships. Read up on all the ThINK(s) and you just might learn a thing or two you never knew.

xoxo

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TGIF

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xoxo

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Fab 5: Beach Towels

I don't know about you, but I'm so ready for warm weather and lounging at the pool. Summer is right around the corner so I thought it would be appropriate to share my picks for some stylish beach towels that are perfect for a day of sun and sand.

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1. I love the graphic print of this medallion towel from Fieldcrest for Target.
2. I've always been a huge fan of the classic Missoni prints. How fabulous would this be at the pool?
3. The "Keep Calm and Carry On" saying is perfect for a day at the beach from Polyvore.
4. My favorite movie growing up was "The Little Mermaid" so I'm pretty sure I need this towel from Target.
5. The standard striped beach towel in a pop of orange from Beachstore is perfect for laying out poolside.

xoxo

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Weekly Pick: Dresser Transformation

How amazing is this dresser turned kitchen island? With a slightly modern kitchen the dresser adds a more traditional and inviting element to the mix. What a great weekend DIY project. If you want a how-to guide on how to re-create this look see here.

xoxo

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I is for: Ikat

I'm inspired by the abstract patterns of ikat that brings in a wild and abstract element to my spring 2011 wardrobe. The artisanal print can worn to the beach in the form of a dress or dressed up for a night on the town. Bring out your inner wild child and be sure to add this fresh pattern to your spring/summer outfits.

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You can find a similar look with these picks:

The subtle variation of ikat pattern in this silk J.Crew vest are simply stunning. 

This ikat beaded belt from Banana Republic offsets a simple outfit to give an upbeat twist.

xoxo

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What I'm Reading Now: CS Magazine

I always look forward to the beginning of the month when I can walk to the street corner and pick up the  latest issue of CS. This magazine is a must read for Chicagoans to stay up on the latest fashion trends, double checking to see if you've been spotted at an event, and recommendations for some of the hottest restaurants and hotels in the city. I'm loving the May issue featuring "Ready, Set, Jet Set!" showcasing luxurious hotels around the world from Shanghai to London. I'm ready to pack my bag now...

xoxo

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Have a Happy Weekend Everyone!

xoxo

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Weekly Pick: Wine Bottle Centerpeices

I'm loving these DIY eco-chic ideas for turning empty wine bottles into a classy centerpiece. They add such a stylish flair to a table setting, and best of all they are so easy to make. Add some fresh flowers, candles, or a string of lights and you've got yourself a perfect centerpiece that your guests are sure to notice.

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xoxo

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H is for: Hats

After the Royal Wedding and the Kentucky Derby all I can think about are hats. So staying on trend this spring/summer I think hats are the perfect addition to laying out at the pool or walking to the farmers market. Hats add an extra element of style to any outfit and also provide that extra coverage to protect against the sun. In just another month the only thing on my to-do list will be sitting poolside with a wide brimmed hat and a good book. 

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You can find a similar look with these picks:

My go to hat on the weekend is the fedora. New York & Company makes my pick with a classic shape and distinctive black ribbon.

I'm loving this glamorous wide brimmed hat in black from Zara. This has pool written all over it.

xoxo

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What I'm Reading Now: The Beauty Department

Lauren Conrad (aka LC from Laguna Beach or the Hills) has launched a new website called The Beauty Department.  I'm loving the user friendly blog design of the site, the gorgeous photography, and the writing style. The how-to's and topics are completely relevant by covering all the bases of makeup, hair, skin and nails. Enjoy!

xoxo

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Happy Mothers Day Weekend

"I love my mother as the trees love water and sunshine - she helps me grow, prosper, and reach great heights. " ~Terri Guillemets

xoxo

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Fab 5: Books

"Life is like a book. Everyday has a new page with adventures to tell, things to learn and tales to remember." That being said it's about time I fill you in on my favorite books. Books have a way of capturing my imagination and it was difficult narrowing it down to only five since I have so many favorites. But here is a list of my fab 5 can't put down books.

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1. I couldn't put down this mesmerizing memoir that captures the life of Jeannette Walls in The Glass Castle. A turbulent upbringing in a dysfunctional family will have you flipping pages to find out what happens next.
2. You really should read The Help before you see the new movie coming out this summer. You will love the eccentric characters and gripping story line that this book offers.
3. The Great Gatsby is a classic that should be on everyones book list. It was a must read then and it's a must read now.
4. To Kill a Mockingbird is also a beloved American classic. I couldn't not put this book on my favorites list.
5. Curtis Sittenfeld is such a great author. I really loved her book American Wife that tells the story of Alice Lindgren and the road that leads to her role as the first lady.

xoxo

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Weekly Pick: SAIC Fashion Show

What could be better than spending your lunch break at a fashion show? This Thursday the SAIC Fashion Show takes place in Millennium Park. I can't wait to see the designs from talented designers in such a perfect setting. I'll follow up with additional photos tomorrow.

xoxo

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G is for: Gingham

It's a little bit country and a whole lot of cute. The gingham trend is a fun addition to a weekend wardrobe this summer with it's casual flair. I like the idea of incorporating simple pieces with a structured feel to accompany the gingham trend. January Jones rocked the look with an edgy blazer and classic Ray-Bans. 

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You can find a similar look with these picks:

These J.Crew gingham shorts are perfect for a sunny summer weekend.

A fun twist on the classic gingham button down with a ruffled accent from Old Navy.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Lonny Magazine

I recently discovered an amazing interior home magazine (a great substitute for those of you who used to enjoy Domino magazine) that highlights talented bloggers and lends a good amount of creativity. Lonny magazine has a great layout with fabulous eye catching photography. This magazine is a real page-turner that has a little something for everyone.

xoxo

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