Happy Long Weekend + Links

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Party Favors:

What Gen Y really thinks about soccer trophies and entitlement

I'm slightly obsessed with band tees right now (this one is my favorite)

What do you think about this glamping experience in New York?

Chicago agency pairs Instagram with a vintage View-Master

Big Bang Theory onesie

 

 

xoxo

 

PS



Fab 5: Natalie Coughlin's Fall Fashion Picks

A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of interviewing Olympic swimmer Natalie Coughlin at my favorite rooftop lounge the J. Parker. Natalie and LensCrafters have partnered to deliver the Go See message of the importance of quality vision care and prescription sunglasses as she travels across the country discussing her vision care needs as an athlete, outdoor enthusiast, and lifestyle expert. 

 

LensCrafters brought out some of their new styles for Fall (I was slightly obsessed with these Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses) and now I'm thinking it's about time to get some glasses. Those of you who know me understand why I'm always wearing my prescription Ray-Ban's whether it's sunny or not. No more excuses everyone...I'm getting glasses.

 

 

I chatted with Natalie about cooking some healthy summer dishes, traveling throughout Italy, and her favorite fashion picks. Here are 5 things Natalie is looking to add to her closet this Fall:
 

1. Leather Jacket

2. Booties

3. Scarves

4. Leather Pants

5. Cashmere Sweater

 

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: 101 in 1001 Update

My vacation in northern Michigan was definitely relaxing, but I was also busy crossing off items from my 101 in 1001 list. It feels awesome to accomplish these goals, and I really want to thank my family and friends who continually support me in making these dreams a reality.

1. Parasailing in Traverse City (A huge thank you to my sister Kelli for braving this with me and making it a memorable experience)

2. Drive-in move at the Cherry Bowl 

3. Learning the alphabet in sign language

4. Harry Potter (a work in progress)

5. Paddleboarding Little Glen Lake

Also, as part of my 101 in 1001 list to "give back" each month I ran the Dune Dash 4 mile race where all proceeds benefit the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.

The winners of the Black Sheep Emporium vintage flatware giveaway are Ani and Lisa Newman! I'll be emailing you later today to get your address. Thank you to Black Sheep Emporium and everyone who entered the giveaway.

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Northern Michigan Favorites

I always look forward to the month of August to spend a week relaxing with family in Glen Arbor. We've created countless memories and traditions that have kept us coming back year after year for all things cherry, breathtaking sunsets and sand beneath our toes on Sleeping Bear Dunes. Below are a few things of my favorite things I couldn't keep my hands off of while traveling around northern Michigan.

1. Cherry Republic is an essential stop for lunch, a quick snack from the bakery or some wine tasting. During the week we couldn't get enough Coconut Boomchunkas or Cherry Ginger Ale.
2. Northern Michigan is known for their amazing 40+ vineyards and I think it's safe to say we've now visited each one. My absolute favorites (in no particular order) are Shady Lane Cellars, Boathouse Vineyards, Black Star Farms, Leelanau Cellars, and L. Mawby.
3. Every summer vacation must include ice cream right? We love walking to the Pine Cone for a little treat and during this trip we were all swooning over Ashby's Eskimo Kisses. It doesn't get much better than coconut ice cream with chocolate truffles and fudge.
4. While driving around to a few vineyards we happened to find a stand on the side of the road selling local honey. I can't wait to serve this Bingham Bee's clover honey with an artisan cheese plate.
5. The Trader Joe's Toasted Coconut Cookie Thins are my latest obsession. Put these together to make s'mores and you won't remember what a graham cracker is.
6. We took a little drive to Northport and stumbled on a farm stand selling White Chocolate Popcorn. Since it was featured in Martha Stewart Living we couldn't say no.
7. If you're boating on Torch Lake Dockside restaurant is the place to be.
8. I wish every Monday morning could include skipping stones in Lake Michigan with champagne in party cups.
9. The best part about vacation is spending time doing something out of the ordinary. Starting the day with a coffee by the lake was a highlight.

xoxo

PS

I'm Back!

Waking up to an alarm this morning was rough (to say the least), but thankfully my Starbucks barista didn't forget my usual. After a week in northern Michigan with no access to Starbucks, barely any cell service, and no blaring horns or sirens I'm trying to adjust to "city" life again. Last week was filled with sunbathing on the dock of Little Glen Lake, listening to Lord Huron and Ben Howard, checking a handful of things off my 101 in 1001 list, wine tasting at some of my favorite vineyards, and driving around endless lakes with spectacular views.

A vacation that involved relaxation, new experiences, and family was just what I needed to return to the city feeling refreshed and ready to conquer some new projects in the works. A huge thank you again to my guest bloggers A Foreign Land, Caravan of Style, Black Sheep Emporium, Cedar and Rush and OHMYDALIA for posting while I was busy getting a tan and sipping some Michigan wine. I'll be posting a recap of some highlights from my vacation this week so stay tuned!

Image found here

xoxo

PS

Guest Post: Dalia from OHMYDALIA

My last (but not least) guest blogger for the week is Dalia from OHMYDALIA. OHMYDALIA is a collection of Dalia's favorite places around Chicago, inspirational items across the web and delicious recipes. She's also a super talented freelancing interactive marketing consultant (check out her portfolio). Today Dalia is sharing one of her favorite quotes and some awesome party favors with you. Enjoy!

Party Favors:

Must make this amazing salad. Salmon AND bacon? Yes please! 

Music is art. Jay-Z continues to blow my mind

A super uplifting and fun playlist for the best month of the year from Note to Self

Let loose in natural and enjoy her beauty. Amazing photos from Michelle Gardella

Time Magazine's, The Child Free Life. In a time where womanhood and motherhood go hand-in-hand. This article talks about the all-time low American Birthrate and why it's happening.

xoxo

PS

Guest Post: Nicole from Cedar and Rush

I'm so excited to introduce you to Nicole from Cedar and Rush today! Cedar and Rush is my go-to blog for finding fun and fashionable things to do around Chicago. Today Nicole is sharing 5 of her must try sweets and treats in Chicago so get your sweet tooth ready.

Hello party people! I'm Nicole from Cedar and Rush and could not be more thrilled to be guesting at Project Soiree today. As you are obviously aware, Sara knows how to have a great time and resides in the city of Chicago. When she asked me to share something in fives, I decided to go with my gut...literally. So here are my 5 must try sweets and treats in the City of Chicago. And trust me, you won't find these in the tourist guides.

1. Pierrot Gourmet - Fluffiest macaroons in the city. Dare you to find something better.
2. Gibsons - Infamous for their steaks, you would never think to try their Strawberry Shortcake. Available summers only...still time kids.
3. RPM Italian - Do you watch Giuliana and Bill? Bill's Chocolate Budino is Mr. Rancic's own sweet creation and does not disappoint. Chocolate, caramel and sea salt. Enough said.
4. Bar Toma - The hot chocolate is one hot tottie you should not breeze by. The content inside is just as delicious as the pretty tea cup and giant square marshmallow on top.
5. Little Goat - Start off your brunch with the cinnamon roll. Top Chef, Stephanie Izard's Little Goat is right on the heels of her Girl and the Goat, most coveted reservation in the city. 

Always ending on a sweet note, many thanks to Sara for having me today! And don't forget to stop by Cedar and Rush, unraveling Chicago one event, entrée and cocktail at a time. Xoxo.

xoxo

PS

Guest Post: Black Sheep Emporium + GIVEAWAY

I'm really excited to introduce you to Black Sheep Emporium and a giveaway you'll absolutely love. Black Sheep Emporium is one of my favorite sources for vintage finds (check out this amazing bow brooch) and handmade items that are truly one-of-a-kind. Best of all Black Sheep Emporium has been kind enough to offer two sets of vintage flatware to two lucky Project Soiree readers.

These flatware sets are vintage silver plate and each piece is a different complementary pattern. What's old is new again and setting a table with these vintage pieces would add a fun element to entertaining.

If you live in western Michigan (or if you're visiting the area) you can also find Black Sheep Emporium at the Blue Star Antique Pavilion in Saugatuck.    

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Giveaway is open to US residents only

The winner will be announced on August 28 so be sure to check back. Good luck!


xoxo

PS

Guest Post: Monica from Caravan of Style

Today's guest blogger is Monica from Caravan of Style who you might remember from Project Soiree a couple weeks ago. Monica is a Chicago fashion and food blogger and today she's sharing one of her favorite recipes that's perfect for the end of summer.

Happy Tasty Tuesday Project Soiree readers! When Sara asked me to share a recipe with all of you I immediately thought of dedicating the post to one of my favorite childhood summer salads. Ever since I was a small child my grandma made this creamy cucumber salad frequently, but the recipe usually consists of using a ton of sour cream - delicious but can sometimes make this salad heavy. I've re-worked the recipe for a lighter version that tastes exactly the same! Enjoy!

Ingredients:
2 English cucumbers
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon dill
1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt
Salt and pepper

Directions:
Thinly slice cucumbers and add to a bowl with the vinegar, salt & pepper. Allow the cucumbers to marinate for 30 minutes and then add the plain Greek yogurt. Chill and serve!

xoxo

PS

Guest Post: Molly from A Foreign Land

I've made it to paradise (or my version of) in northern Michigan for a week, and as promised I have some amazing guest bloggers here on Project Soiree that I'm excited to share. First up is Molly from A Foreign Land who makes me love Chicago over and over again with her fun adventures around the city. Molly's humor and amazing tips for restaurants, tours and entertainment in Chicago is the absolute best (trust me).

There is something so special about a bright, glossy, it-takes-two-hands-to-hold-it-because-it's-so-heavy September Issue. Every year, InStyle's "Fall Fashion Issue!" makes my favorite season of the year even more special. There is no question that what I'm reading right now is this 716-page, glossy look book.

My love for it (and September issues in general) is so intense that every year I set aside an indulgent Saturday morning with only one important "to do." First, I make sure there is plenty of coffee and maybe a decadent treat or two available to fuel my adventure. Next, I don a comfy ensemble that would NEVER be featured on the pages of a fashion magazine. Then I curl up on the couch, snuggled in my favorite cozy blanket and savor every moment.

I dog ear pages. I dream. I make lists of must haves. Usually I kick myself for having pruned that one piece several seasons ago that has now made its way back into the limelight.

While some people complain about all the ads that litter the pages of this enormous issue, I do not. Creative departments really step up their game for the September issue. As far as I'm concerned, the ads are works of art. They only enhance my September ritual.

Just one flip through is never, ever enough. I have no doubt that I'll be returning to its pages countless times as I prep my closet for the upcoming change in seasons.

Are you a September Issue junkie?

Is there one (or five) that you NEVER miss?

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links + Vacation

I'm off to northern Michigan today! The plan is to go kayaking, wine tasting, horseback riding, parasailing, paddleboarding, climb Sleeping Bear Dunes, eat a few s'mores and indulge in a some of our favorite smoked fish from Leland. My goal is to check off a handful of items from my 101 in 1001 list so make sure you follow along with my "Pure Michigan" adventure on Instagram and Facebook.

I didn't want the party to end while I was gone so I've lined up some pretty amazing guest bloggers to keep you entertained on Project Soiree next week. Trust me you're going to love these posts!

Image found here

Party Favors:

When I walk into a bar and realize I'm in Wrigleyville

What your paint color says about you

I know it's only August but I'm obsessed with these Kate Spade 2014 agendas

Today's version of a message in a bottle

70 little ways you can tell that someone loves you

xoxo

PS

Fab 5: Clear Clutches

I'm clearly a little obsessed with clear clutches right now. At first glance I wasn't sure I wanted everyone seeing what was in my bag, but this type of clutch forces you to carry only the necessities. Are you on board with this trend?

Image found here

1. I'm loving this soft green color of this lucite box clutch from Dailylook.

2. This Forever 21 metallic-trimmed clear clutch stays chic with a chain shoulder strap.

3. You can't go wrong with this gorgeous Alice and Olivia clear clutch.

4. I can't get enough of the CC SKYE bright lucite clutch that has a retro feel.

5. Go Jane has the perfect clutch for carrying all the essentials with a removable metal chain strap.

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: Jersey Style

Ladies, football season is just around the corner (or did it already start?) Either way if you're like me you're probably loathing the day your boyfriend asks you to attend a football game with him or even watch it on TV this Fall. But rest assured that sports jerseys are getting major playing time in the fashion arena right now so you can look stylish while sitting at a game or just hanging out on the weekend. Get in the game and raid your boyfriend's closet (which normally I wouldn't suggest) and you'll be sure to win in the fashion world.

 

 

Leather Jacket: Forever 21/ Jersey: Vintage (similar ASOS)/ Jeans: Gap/ Heels: Payless (similar Guess)/ Ring: J.Crew

 

I also styled this sports jersey as a dress (why not?)

 

 

xoxo

 

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Piccolo Sogno Due

I recently made a trip to Piccolo Sogno Due here in Chicago, and let me tell you this place is truly a little dream. Piccolo Sogno translates to "little dream" in Italian and here you'll find regional Italian dishes with homemade pastas, hand-tossed pizzas prepared in a wood-burning oven and freshly baked bread (made with squid ink). Piccolo Sogno Due is the sister restaurant to Piccolo Sogno and menu items are very similar with entrees ranging from $12-$24 and an extensive wine list featuring many Italian varieties (the Pinot Nero is excellent). I enjoyed sitting out on the patio at Piccolo Sogno Due in River North, but if you want to experience one of the finest patios in the city then head over to Piccolo Sogno for a trip back to Italy.

 

I ordered the Margherita pizza (of course) made with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh basil and mozzarella that was baked perfectly in their wood-burning oven. The crispy crust and fresh ingredients made this pizza a true winner in my book.  



xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Harry Potter & a 101 in 1001 Update

I've been on a roll lately checking things off my 101 in 1001 list, and I'm looking forward to vacation next week where I plan to cross off a handful of other items from the list (parasailing, paddleboarding and a drive-in-movie). One item I hope to complete by the end of next week is reading the rest of the Harry Potter series. I recently finished the third book and I'm really excited to finish the series while relaxing by Little Glen Lake.


 

xoxo

 

PS

Happy Friday + Links

Image found here

 

Party Favors:

The 100 most beautiful words in English

Have you been reading 40 days of dating?

Rappers as cereal mascots (hilarious)

The truth about tomatoes

8 cheesy pickup lines you gouda know

 

xoxo

 

PS



Fab 5: Ear Cuffs

My latest obsession are these ear cuffs that are making quite a statement. From what I've heard they aren't extremely comfortable to wear, but sometimes fashion comes first right? I love how these ear cuffs add an unexpected twist to an outfit and can be dressed up or down.

Image found here

 

1)  Net-A-Porter/ 2) Forever 21/ 3) Claires/ 4) Go Jane/ 5) H&M

  

 

xoxo

 

PS

Weekly Pick: Lollapalooza Rewind

 

If you follow me on Instagram you probably saw me rocking out this past Saturday at Lollapalooza to some of my favorite artists. Here's a little recap of the day:



• The music is obviously the most important part of Lollapalooza, but the fashion is a close second. My outfit was a mix of leather shorts with this Forever 21 rose print cardigan and biker boots. 
• This guy almost gave me his J.Crew jersey....
• Matt & Kim didn't have the greatest set, but they were super entertaining (to say the least). Since I've been a long time fan it was a highlight to (finally) see them play live.
• This kid was living the life listening to The National.
• Mumford & Sons + fireworks = heaven.
• See you next year Lolla! (3-day pass is a must- lesson learned).

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Magic Bars

What can I say about these bars other than they're seriously magical? That crumbly graham cracker crust and sweet toasted coconut with chocolate chips and butterscotch is a deadly combination. The best part is they're super easy to make, and the perfect little treat for girls night watching The Bachelorette finale. How excited are you for the new Bachelor?! Someone needs to figure out where I can sign up to get on this next season....



Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup butter
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup flaked coconut

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place butter in 9x13 pan and melt in the oven. Combine the melted butter with graham cracker crumbs and press into the bottom of the pan. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crumb mixture. Layer evenly with chocolate chips, butterscotch chips and coconut.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until lightly browned.

*You could also add nuts, candy pieces, dried cranberries or cherries, raisins or marshmallows to make these bars really magical.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Caravan of Style

Get ready to bookmark one of my favorite Chicago fashion blogs Caravan of Style.  Monica is a fellow Michigan girl turned city girl living in Chicago with a killer sense of style that's both trendy and classic (something every girl loves). Dressing for all types of weather in the Midwest isn't an easy task, but Monica makes it look both effortless and chic. The best part is Caravan of Style also includes some amazing recipes so you can get your fill of food and fashion all in one place. What could be better than that?

Get to know Monica:

1. What are you currently reading?

I'm currently reading The Shining Girls for my book club, it's quite a graphic novel - something I'm not used to reading but so far it's been an excellent book. 
 

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

My favorite restaurant in Chicago has to be Southport Grocery & Cafe in Lakeview. It was the first restaurant I ate brunch at on my very first visit to Chicago years ago and has been a favorite for years. Menu favorites: the stuffed french toast & the grown-up pop tart.
 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

I love blogging for so many reasons but two in particular: making new friends & it makes me genuinely happy.  I moved to Chicago a little over a year ago and one of the best and quickest way I have made friends in this city has been through my blog. I love meeting fellow bloggers in the city and it's great that we instantly have something in common together. 
 

Second, I work a general 9 to 5 corporate job there is little room for creativity or self expression. I use by blog to showcase my personality and the things that make me the happiest. When you have an outlet that brings you immense joy it's the only type of success that matters. 
 

4. Five things on your wish list:

• DSLR camera
• Tory Burch cuff bracelet
• A classic pair of black Louboutin pumps 
• A bar cart
• KitchenAid stand mixer

5. Favorite quote?

"Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together" - Elizabeth Taylor

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

Image found here

Party Favors:

Finding joy in unexpected places

A great guide to Chicago

The future of Snapchat 

I'm still not sure what I think about Tinder...

The 10 people I'm sure to meet at Lollapalooza this weekend

 

Also, don't miss my Local Love on Cedar and Rush this week!

 

xoxo

 

PS



Fab 5: Painting with West Elm (I Need Your Help!)



I've decided to make a few changes around the apartment and first on the list is adding a pop of color to the wall behind my bed. Since I'm obsessed with West Elm and they recently teamed up with Sherwin-Williams I narrowed down my choices to the five colors shown below. So help a girl out and leave a comment with your favorite color or suggestions for a different color.



xoxo

PS