Holiday Gift Guide: Midwest is Best

A Stylish Walk in the Woods

When temperatures hit 60 degrees mid November in Michigan you spend your time outdoors. To take advantage of the weather I took a little walk through the woods (without any complaints of bugs or rough trails). Living in Michigan is a true blessing to experience days like this.

Gift Ideas from jb and me

I'm all about shopping local and jb and me is one of my favorite spots to find unique accessories and home decor. I recently attended a blogger event at the Holland location with some local bloggers to check out some new items and gifts for the holiday season. 

Meet My New Favorite Accessory - Via Chic

Looking for a new clutch to match your favorite dress? Look no further because the Via Chic–OneClutch™allows you to fully customize a clutch with your favorite scarf or piece of fabric (no sewing necessary). Sounds pretty amazing right?

Recap: Meijer LPGA 5K

The Meijer LPGA Classic was in full swing last week, and I was thrilled to participate in the 5K Run & Walk at Rockford High School. Even though it was a very warm morning it was great to get back in race mode.

5 Things I Learned On Vacation

I'm back! After a week in northern Michigan hiking, kayaking, wine tasting and spending time with family I'm feeling rested and ready to jump back in the blogging game. I'll fill you in on some highlights from the week, but I wanted to share a five things I learned from a week away.

Welcome to Grand Rapids West Elm!

I'm thrilled to have West Elm in Grand Rapids! Many of you know I'm slightly obsessed with the duvet covers, gifts and bath accessories that make a stylish statement in my home. If you're new to West Elm here's a little recap of what you can expect at the Grand Rapids store. 

You're Invited! Lee & Birch Anniversary Party

Lee & Birch is one of my favorite boutiques in Grand Rapids and this Thursday they are celebrating their Anniversary on Wealthy Street. Stop by for light refreshments, photo booth and 20% off your purchase!

On My Radar - Grand Rapids Events

Mark your calendar because you don't want to miss out on these upcoming events in Grand Rapids. From fashion, yoga, and movies in the park these are the places to be. 

Current Favorites: Michigan Made

Lets face it, the midwest is best. As a Michigan girl born and raised I've rounded up a few of my favorite Michigan made products that I currently love. What are some of your favorites?

Speak Wines - Now Available in Michigan!

If you haven't heard of Speak Wines well I'm here to speak up on how amazing they are. Founders of Speak Wines, Stephanie Fasi and Kerry Sutherland, are sharing a love for words with a "Pinterest meets Malbec" bottle of wine. A wine label speaks a thousand words and with sayings like "You're Pretty" and "Be Happy & Smile" these bottles of wine will make a perfect statement at your next dinner party or simply to celebrate making it through a Monday. 

Bibb Lettuce with Grapefruit, Avocado, and Creamy Avocado Dressing - Pure Food Cookbook

As a vegetarian it can be really difficult to find a cookbook with satisfying yet easy meals to prepare for everyone to enjoy. I recently received a copy of Pure Food and I quickly realized this book was different from all the rest. 

Bonobo Winery

If you haven't taken a trip to Michigan's Old Mission Peninsula you're missing out on some fabulous wine and incredible views (trust me). My family and I visit this area each summer, but we recently spent an afternoon wine tasting at some of our favorite vineyards for a little winter escape. We have a few vineyards that we absolutely love, but Bonobo Winery has officially topped our list. 

Fab 5: Fall Wish List

I can't believe Fall officially starts next week Tuesday! Where did Summer go? I made it through most of my Summer Checklist and although I'm sad to pack up my sandals and swimsuits I'm ready to embrace Fall.

1. A new pair of booties (I'm obsessed with these from Dolce Vita).

2. My mom's favorite holiday is Halloween so I grew up with a house full of Fall decorations. This year I'm going to add a little Fall flavor to my apartment.

3. I'm slightly obsessed with Apple Crisp (recipe here) so I can't wait to make this ASAP.

4. A trip to Robinette's Apple Orchard in my hometown of Grand Rapids, MI is a must (their pumpkin donut is the absolute best).

5. Picking up Honey Crisp apples from the Green City Market

What's on your Fall wish list?

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: Vineyard Vines in Fishtown

It seemed only appropriate to do an outfit featuring Vineyard Vines while vacationing in Fishtown. Incorporating a classic button down shirt with cut-off denim shorts and sneakers is the perfect outfit for walking the docks and watching the fishing charters arrive from Lake Michigan. And no trip to Fishtown is complete without a stroll through Leland Gal, smoked fish from Carlson's and a sandwich from the Village Cheese Shanty (I'm seriously craving a Fishtown sandwich).

Shirt: Vineyard Vines c/o / Shorts: H&M/ Sneakers: Superga/ Bag: Longchamp: Hat: Vineyard Vines c/o / Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Photo Credit: Save Big. Eat Well.

xoxo

PS

 Project Soiree occasionally receives vendor/brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services. All opinions are 100% my own.

Weekly Pick: Vacation Style with Vo Jewelry

Northern Michigan holds a special place in my heart filled with precious family memories and carefree summer days. Each sunset, kayaking trip, climb up Sleeping Bear Dunes, and s'more by the beach are something I look forward to each year as a chance to unwind and relax with family. This year we made a stop in Charlevoix for lunch by the water at Weathervane and a walk around downtown enjoying salt water taffy.

When I'm vacationing in Michigan I keep my style casual with a focus on layers (for the unpredictable Midwest weather) and statement accessories including this chic Vo Jewelry necklace.

Hat: Forever 21 (similar)/ Sweater: J.Crew (similar)/ Jacket: Vintage (similar)/ Jeans: Gap / Necklace: Vo Jewelry  c/o / Sneakers: Superga/ Sunglasses: Ray-Ban/ Bag: Longchamp

Photo Credit: Save Big. Eat Well.

xoxo

PS

 Project Soiree occasionally receives vendor/brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services. All opinions are 100% my own.

Tasty Tuesday: Guide to Leelanau Peninsula Wineries

After a week in northern Michigan visiting 20+ wineries along the Leelanau Peninsula I thought I would share a few of my favorites. The diverse microclimates in the peninsula are perfect for a variety of wine grapes including Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The wine, the views and the passionate winemakers are what sets Michigan wines apart from the rest.

My Favorite: Shady Lane Cellars - For the coziest tasting room and best (new) patio head over to Shady Lane Cellars and enjoy a glass (or bottle) of their Coop de Rose. Their friendly staff and amazing wine will keep you coming back (we visited three times on our trip).

Best Tasting Room: Leelanau Cellars- You can't beat these views of the bay from the Leelanau Cellars tasting room or their incredible wine. I'm a huge fan of their Summer Sunset (rose) and Tall Ship Chardonnay that are perfect for summer.

Best Newcomer: Aurora Cellars- Aurora Cellars recently opened and after attending their grand opening event we were really impressed by their tasting room and great wine. Their semi-dry white wine Luminous is a great choice to enjoy on their patio while overlooking the vineyards.

Best Red Wine: Brys Estate - The Cab/Merlot at Brys Estate is an all time favorite for my family with an Italian dinner. Visiting their tasting room is always a highlight and we really enjoyed their new walk out deck this summer that allows you to walk above the vines.

Best White Wine: Boathouse Vineyards -  Located on the Narrows in Lake Leelanau Boathouse Vineyards is my top pick for enjoying a glass of Dry Riesling. My sister and I love grabbing a glass of wine from the tasting room and watching the boats travel through the Narrows.

xoxo

PS