Happy Valentine’s Day friends!

A day full of love, chocolate, roses and everything pink and red.

Speaking of red, I have really been trying to embrace more color, to spice up  my existing wardrobe.

“Red is my cula” as my mother-in-law says in her best southern belle accent. Well, I am starting to think red might be, let’s say, my accent color.

When I started to slowly integrate more color such as red, I wanted to make sure I was careful with what other colors and patterns I paired with such a bold and vibrant hue.

I have collected some of my latest ensembles that may perhaps inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and introduce more color like red into your closet. I styled these according to things you could wear to work, to an job interview or even lunch with friends.

As I am still a newbie at this style blogging, so please be patient with me on the pictures and links. If you have questions, you can always message me.  

I am loving a good red and camel color combo right now. It’s bold, striking and classic all at the same time. With red, you want to keep the balance, meaning styling it with things that complement the color instead of clashing with it. As you know, I love a good leopard print to add pattern to my simple outfits so of course I had to include my favorite clutch with this ensemble.

If you need another layer you can do a chambray button down or add a cognac color leather jacket to balance out your look, keeping the red as you accent color.

If solid red is a little too much for you, patterns are a great way to add red (or any other accent color) to your wardrobe. This Fall, I purchased this J.Crew red and white striped dress (sorry not available any more) and have worn it more than I thought I would. Here are a couple of ways I have styled this fun dress. 

You can always add a leather or denim jacket if you don’t want to do something as dressy as this Draper James swing coat. 

If a dress is too much for you, I found this fun Old Navy stripe top.

It’s super soft and I love the femininity it gives with the bell sleeves. Here are a few ways I styled it to give you some ideas…

This is styled with a light gray pleated skirt I got last summer from Vici Collection. When, I put my outfits together, I like to mix dressy with casual. It’s unexpected and fun too.

 

 

 

Here, I styled with my favorite cream color Zara dress pants to give a more sophisticated look. You could also do white jeans and taupe ballet flats if you want a more casual or every day look.

Finally, I styled this darling top with my dark rinse skinny jeans and leather jacket (for an edgier look) but you could also do a black dress pant or skirt for a dressier, classic look for the office.

 

 

 

Another example of how I added red to my closet was with this cool buffalo plaid jacket I picked up at Loft on a whim.  I hate that it is not available anymore but I found one here that can give you somewhat of the same look.

Now, your pattern might not be buffalo plaid or stripe, it may be floral, or a different kind of red pattern like this gingham one, which I absolutely love too! Gingham looks so happy to me and this particular gingham is not too large where you may be mistaken for a Pizza Hut tablecloth. It’s the perfect size! Believe, I would not steer you wrong.

So this buffalo plaid jacket just happened to be something that really stuck out to me especially with as much denim and black I already own. When, I said I picked it up on a whim, I didn’t just get it because it was red or because I love this pattern, I got it 1.) Because it was on major sale (didn’t want to pay full price for something I may not wear that much). 2.) It could easily be added to my existing wardrobe and even multiply what I already have. That my friends, is how I shop!

Now, if you are not sure about going all out with the red attire, but you still want to experiment with the color, you could go the accessory route, like these Nickel and Suede earrings . You know how much I love a good statement piece. 

If you don’t do earrings or you are not a big jewelry fan, how about a making a statement with a red clutch or wristlet . Just keep the rest of your outfit simple and understated.

Although adding color, especially a bold one like red, to my wardrobe was a little intimidating at first, in the end, I embraced it and actually had fun with it.

Sometimes, it’s baby steps like adding an unexpected accessory or two to get us out of our standard work wear or every day wardrobe boxes, to help us realize that it’s okay to spice things up every now and then. When adding just a little color and/or pattern, it actually enhances your existing wardrobe. Just be sure when you do it, you are staying true to yourself, what you are comfortable with and what is realistic for your lifestyle and wardrobe.

So what color or pattern have you shied away from or have been too intimidated to try? I would be glad to help you try it.

As a personal stylist, my goal is to help women find their own style, not what their best friend is wearing, not what they see in the latest InStyle, or on a mannequin in the store.

It’s what you like, what works for you and only you and I am here to guide you, support you and encourage you to redefine what style truly means to you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Target Tuesday, friends! I hope you have been enjoying this series of my favorite finds. I would love to hear your feedback (good or bad), if you have bought anything I recommended and what your thoughts are on them?

So I found another white tee  (shocker there, I know) that I am loving and in my opinion, you really can’t have enough of these. I like the pocket on this one (it’s not too small) and the v neck hits you just right where you need it.

As I have mentioned before, when you have a white tee in your wardrobe, you can do just about anything to create different ensembles. You can easily dress it up with a classic black pencil skirt, leather jacket and fun necklace or dress it down with fun jeans and sneaks. It’s just an easy and effortless way to dress.

How adorable are these tennies?!! I just ordered them (crossing my fingers they fit). I cannot wait to wear them all throughout spring and summer! They kind of remind me of the K Swiss that everyone wore back in the day. I will probably style these with my denim skirt like this one, white jeans, olive green joggers and/or more casual dresses all spring and summer long.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I pretty much love anything with stripes and it includes this fun, light-weight blouse! With stripes, you can have fun mixing and matching with other patterns such another favorite of mine, leopard print!

I adore simple gold hoops! I wear mine almost every day, but I like this take on the classic style. This size is perfect for any face shape and this brushed gold is flattering for all skin tones. Hoops are also great accessory to pack on trips because they go with anything! I love a one and down kind of accessory, don’t you?

Layered necklaces are back on trend right now and this striking, yet simple necklace is just enough so that it can complement almost any ensemble as well as make the most of my simplest outfit. I love how versatile it is and I can’t wait to try it out this season.

Okay, how fabulous is this tote bag?!!!

It has this preppy yet, boho chic feel to it. And of course, the navy and white stripe design grabbed my attention. So not only am I crazy over the stripe design, but I also love the size of the bag. It’s not oversize or too tiny either so it really flatters most body types. The length of straps also allows the bag to hit you at just the right spot so it’s not calling attention to possibly where we don’t want the attention, right ladies?

 

 

While I love a good tote bag, every now and then, I do need to carry a smaller bag and a cross body style like this one below is convenient for me, especially with kids.

I usually use a cross body style while on family trips or running around town with my kids because it’s easy access and it’s still very stylish. I chose this color because it’s versatile and seasonless, meaning you can wear it with most colors, all year long.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A lightweight v neck sweater going into spring is a must have. I love to have these on hand during the cooler summer nights at the beach too.

This look kind of reminds me of what Jackie O might have worn, with her white ankle jeans and big sunglasses while vacationing in Martha Vineyards. At least that is what I picture anyway.

So I got these same fun sandals last year and I am so glad Target is making them again! These sandals are super comfortable and so chic to walk in to the warmer months. It’s hard to choose which color because they are all so great, but if you don’t mind, may I recommend one or two? I would do a gold or taupe. Then, you can add them with your favorite white jeans and new light weight sweater I just mentioned.

I guess I am on a sneaker kick because I apparently can’t seem to get enough of them and Target is definitely obliging to my little obsession. So I don’t normally go for pink or any color for that matter (another talk about that later on Wednesday), but I just love the blush color on these sneaks. I think blush is another great neutral and I love neutrals as you all can probably guess.

I could see me wearing these new pink sneaks with all white, and then dash of color with a scarf or fun necklace. I just ordered them so I am not sure how they fit. The reviews did say that they can run big so order a size down.

If you haven’t been introduced to this brand of pjs, please let me do that for you. Meet Gilligan O-Malley, the softest and most affordable pjs you will ever own! They wash well too. So I bought these particular ones, because hello stripes, but they also reminded me of these J. Crew ones I had been eyeing for some time but couldn’t pull the trigger because they were just not worth the price in my opinion. Sorry J. Crew! You know I love ya! You just look in my closet. You will feel the love!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As you can see, I am more of pj pants and top kind of gal because I just feel more comfy in them especially around kids. I can also just throw on my fleece or cute cardigan to take my kids to school and no one would ever know I was not fully dressed. Okay, well now you do, but you get it the idea.

Although I have been known to accidentally keep my Ugg slippers on while being fully dressed.  Not at Target (thank goodness) but my neighborhood Publix.

Hey! I got some looks that day, but I thought everyone was looking at me because my cool outfit, but come to find out, I still had my slippers on. Now, there’s a humbling experience!

So lesson number one today, friends, don’t forget to take your slippers off when you are heading to your local Publix, Kroger or Piggly Wiggly. I realize they are comfortable, but they are not a fashion statement.

They are a fashion no-no!

The other lesson…well, I actually have no idea…it just sounded good when I said lesson number one earlier.

Have a great Tuesday and stay tuned for my next post about stepping out of my own wardrobe box and into more color (especially red) in my closet!

 

 

Happy Hump Day…you are half way through the work week!!

Cue the Mary Tyler Moore Show opening song…

“Who can turn the world on with her smile?
Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile?
Well it’s you girl, and you should know it
With each glance and every little movement you show it

Love is all around, no need to waste it
You can have the town, why don’t you take it
You’re gonna make it after all
You’re gonna make it after all! ”

source: https://www.lyricsondemand.com/tvthemes/marytylermooreshowlyrics.html

Sometimes you just need to channel a little Mary Tyler Moore to give you that extra boost because “You are gonna make it after all,” friend.

I know I need that extra boost today, especially. Anyone else still recovering after last night’s “This is us” episode?! Wow! I can’t even talk about it. Well, I can talk about it but I won’t in case some of you haven’t watched it yet.

You like how I just assumed you are all fans of the show? Well, if you haven’t been introduced to “This is Us,” I am so sorry. You need to do yourself a favor and have a “This is Us” marathon this weekend. I promise it is worth every minute!

So going back to the work week talk…I’ve said it before and I will say it again, when you dress well, you will naturally carry yourself with more confidence. As the saying goes, “Dress for success,” or “Dress the part.”

Whether you like it or not, when you are first meeting someone, within seconds, they have already formed an opinion about you, based on how you have presented your self and that starts with dressing appropriately. To quote fashion designer Tom Ford, “Dressing well is a form of good manners.

I realize that most work spaces are more casual now, especially with more people working at home, but sometimes even when you are working from home, you should dress the part. It will instantly change your mood and how you operate your business. Hey! Even being a stay at home mom/CEO of your household, getting out of those yoga pants or even putting on new yoga pants and jazzing it up with something unexpected like a scarf, or fun shoes, will help boost your attitude towards that mound of laundry like I am looking at right this minute.

So getting back to channeling the classic Mary Tyler Moore, who in my opinion, really transformed not only the way we view women in the work place, but also what it looks like to take pride in how you dress.

Take a look at my work wardrobe ideas and maybe it will inspire you to step it up a notch or maybe think of other ways to wear your existing ensembles.

Everyone needs a classic black pencil skirt in their closet. It’s versatile as you can wear it with   anything from a nice blouse, a chambray button down, a basic white tee and leather jacket or  with this leopard print sweater. Guess where this sweater is from? Target!!

If you want to add another layer, put a white button or chambray button down underneath it. I then styled it with my black patent pumps for my work day and had my new Gap suede boots on hand to create a more a casual look for dinner later with friends.

 

Another classic and versatile piece to have on hand is a simple, black or navy sheath dress. The next few photos, I will be showing you several different ways to easily change up a simple black dress depending on your work environment.

As you can see, I have kind of thing for leopard print. I just love how it adds a little extra sass and style to a classic ensemble. I then added some pops of color with my favorite Rebecca Minkoff handbag and cuff bracelet. Then, chose this pretty wrap (which was a gift from my dear, sweet friend Maria) because the neutral tone balances out the look so I am not looking over accessorized (or trying too hard). It also keeps me really warm on those chillier days.

Recognize this vest from last week’s Target Tuesday find? I have worn the heck out it already. I love how I can make it casual or dressy. Obviously this look is for a dressier work environment, but you could also wear something like this to church or a nice dinner out. For dinner out, I would just change the shoes to maybe black open toe or black suede tall boots depending on the weather.

Here I go again with another Target find to add just that little extra something to this simple black dress. Remember I was talking about balanced style last week? Here is a perfect example. I have a higher end leather jacket, black dress, shoes and handbag (similar one here) and then my necklace is not so high end. I chose to invest my money in the pieces I knew I would wear the most, that were classic (not too trendy) and that would last me for many seasons. This black dress I have had for over 10 years!

So the last look with my black dress, is a more casual look. Something you could wear to lunch meeting with a client to dinner out with friends. I found this beautiful wrap at a new favorite store of mine in downtown Franklin, called Habit. The wrap is so cozy and it has just enough color and pattern where, because of the oversize style, it’s not wearing me. I am wearing it. If I did want to add another pop of color, I would carry my merlot color handbag.

This look is for a more conservative work place, but again, I added my pop of color with my handbag, to spice it up a little. Then, I kept everything else simple. I love a good monochromatic look. Obviously! I recently found this woman’s menswear inspired blazer at H&M (similar one here). I have been pleasantly surprised with how well this blazer fits. It’s tailored and lined just like my J. Crew blazer, but half the price. While it may not last as long as my J. Crew one, for the price, I can still get lots of wear for the season.

Speaking of my J. Crew blazer, I have had this classic staple, for 4 years now and it still looks like new. J. Crew really knows how to make a good blazer! This would be a great casual Friday outfit. Then, after work, you can take off the blazer, leaving you with a silk shell or blouse, a cool necklace (like this Stella and Dot one), add a clutch and you are ready for Happy Hour or Fun Friday! Or whatever you may do. Lately, this mama’s “fun Friday or “happy hour” is pizza and movie night with my family but hey, I can still look good while doing it. 🙂

Now, on the opposite end of “Fun Friday,” I have styled the same J. Crew blazer with this fun navy tweed dress. Again, this type of look is for a more conservative work environment or even for an interview. Remember, “dress the part,” because you can only make a first impression once.

Last look as we wrap up our “Work Wear Wednesday,” is another monochromatic look and example of having a more balanced style. So here, I styled my new navy sleeveless turtleneck tunic from Gap, with my navy Vince ankle pants, adding first my leather jacket for a more classic work style and then another look for a more creative work place. If you didn’t want to do the top and pants, you could do a simple, navy sheath dress.

As you can see, with the leather jacket look, it has a more classic and sophisticated impression. With the pretty wine color wrap (similar one here) look, your look is more elegant and chic.

With each look, I made sure my jewelry complemented the outfit. So with the leather jacket look, I kept the necklace really simple, like this one from Noonday. Then, with the wrap, because it has more volume to it, I wore more bold, statement accessories, like the Nickel and Suede earrings.

So friends, only a couple more days until you are heading into the weekend. “You are gonna to make it afterall.” Now, remember, watch “This is Us,” if you haven’t already, and get your outfit ready for the next work day. Use some of these looks as inspiration because when you look good, you feel good.

 

 

 

Happy Target Tuesday friends! This image reminds me of how I feel when I get to go to Target all by my lonesome, but sometimes that can lead to trouble or maybe not. Depends on how you look at it.

So here is the scoop on my latest and greatest finds at this week’s therapy session, I mean my solo trip to Target.

I will confess, I love olive green! Whether it’s a light weight jacket like this one or a long cardigan like this one. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Olive green is a great complementary shade to so many other colors that you can easily add to your existing wardrobe. I usually style both this jacket and cardigan from anything dressy to casual. The jacket in this picture is an older one, but I have linked one similar here. Then, the cardigan you see in picture below I already owned, but I actually love this one from Target a little better. I love how much richer the green is and the three quarter length sleeves, gives it just a little bit of extra style.

Yes, friends, white jeans after Labor Day! It’s all good and I promise the fashion police will not issue you a ticket.

I love a good cuff bracelet and this one is on sale now. It’s a brush metal so it’s not too shiny and you can easily wear it with other types of metal. I have a feeling I will be wearing this almost every day as one of my statement pieces.

Here is another one I am eyeing in rose gold. It’s simple, yet very striking and a nice, light weight accessory to wear during spring and summer.

I have these Alex ankle rain boots, but in olive green.  Shocker right! Olive green!

They are super comfortable and easy to style on rainy days. I do have a pair of tall navy Hunter boots but I actually prefer these. I personally find that the taller rain boots can be a little bulky looking on me and doesn’t make me look as pulled together. I will tell you this, these boots are on the narrow side, and run small so you may have to size up.

Okay, so these tennies were quite the surprise to find. Not knocking, Target (or Tar-jey) but I usually don’t go there to buy tennis shoes. I walk a lot so I usually lean toward the higher end because I want to be sure they will not only support me, but they will last. Well,  I bought these on a whim a couple of months ago because I loved the look of them and needed a tennis shoe that I could easily take from my exercise class to running errands in jeans and a fun top. These shoes are like wearing slippers. I wear them all the time on the weekends or on days I don’t need to dress up too much. The inside is like a memory foam pad and they are so light! If you have narrow feet, these are definitely for you. They are really supportive, hugging your feet in all the right areas.

I just love them and I hope Target continues to make them season after season!

I am really into joggers for some reason this season. I love how you can be comfy, yet stylish depending on the shoes and tops you wear with them. When I was looking for another pair, I came across these. They are true to size and super soft. I promise, you will not want to take them off. They look really great with my new Target tennis shoes and white v neck tee which creates this cool street, chic look.

Finally, to top off this street style look, I am eyeing this backpack. I love how sleek yet functional this backpack is. I also adore this color as I am able to wear it all year long. Love when I don’t have to keep changing my handbags according to seasons. The size is perfect to fit my laptop, with still enough room for other mommy on the go essentials.

Well, I hope you enjoyed this week’s Target Tuesday picks! I would love to hear from you if you have purchased any of these things that I have suggested and what you thought.

 

 

 

 

When you experience a closet edit with me or even just shop with me, you will quickly learn that I am all about balanced style.

So what does “balanced style” mean you might ask?

Well, here is what I think it means (since I just decided to call it that). It’s when one wants to dress well, they don’t have to spend a fortune. Simple as that!

You just need to know what to splurge on and then what to not spend so much of your hard earned money on.

It’s kind of like, when you go to the grocery store, you may splurge on the top shelf brand of chocolate but then you buy the generic brand ice cream. Or perhaps, you purchase the name brand paper towels and then the no name brand Windex because you know that when you buy these brands, you know what you are getting, they don’t tear up easily and they will last you the time you plan to use them. Am I making sense?

So when I am putting together my own outfits or creating a new wardrobe for my clients, I first work with the existing wardrobe and then fill in the “gaps” so to speak, with clothes and accessories that best suit their lifestyle and budget.

When you hire me, you will not feel like you have to shop at majority high end stores to get your best look. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love me some Saks (that’s where I got my start actually), then Nordstrom, of course, who doesn’t love them! And then the amazing local boutiques here, in Nashville area. I will speak about my favs later.

So I appreciate good quality brands…

My point in this is helping you find a balance, and showing you how you can mix the best of both worlds.

You remember my Target Tuesday fashion finds? You will see I have some higher end jeans, shoes and accessories while I have my Target tee, sweater, etc. to complete my look.

As you see here, I have my BP and Target brand button down, Merona mules, styled with my favorite Nickel and Suede earrings, Korkease booties, Paige jeans and Old Navy clutch.Perfect example of balanced style without breaking the bank.

To add another layer, because it’s a tad chilly here in Nashville, and I just like layers, I added my new favorite sweater vest by A New Day. A new brand at Target.

 

Again, you don’ have to spend a fortune to look put together and most importantly feel great. You just have to know what to look for in the quality of fabric as well as the price.

 

 

Another fun Tuesday Target Fashion find was this white v neck. See all the different ways I have already styled it? Pretty simple, I know, but easy, fun and stylish. Again, I have a lot of high end things here and then less than high end.

For instance, I have my Stella and Dot jewelry (call my friend Angela), my Daniel Wellington watch, Madewell cuff bracelet (I love a good cuff bracelet) Gap jeans I have had forever, Fabrik classic black blazer (everyone needs one),
Old Navy pleather jacket, leopard print clutch and then there is my sweater vest from Target (or Tar-jey) I just purchased.

When I am shopping for myself, my goal is to invest in more classic style or things I use very often like shoes, accessories, and nice, good fitting pants or jeans.

For some people, it may be important for them to invest in a nice dress. Every one is different in shape and lifestyle so everyone may have a different priority list. This just happens to be mine right now!

When we work together, we can talk about what your goals are and what you want to learn  to invest in and what you may or may not want to spend on right now.

So I hope you will check out my different styling packages here and really consider me helping you create a more balanced and refined style.

I promise we will have tons of fun and you will walk away feeling your best inside and out.

 

 

 

There is no denying my love for Target. It never fails, when I walk into it’s little slice of heaven, I walk away with more than what was on my “list.”  I really do have good intentions every time I go. As I am walking towards that big red store, I say to myself, avoid the dollar aisle, it will suck you in.  Don’t even look at the children’s section, because you know what happens there. Then, while I am avoiding all those sections, I just happen to walk by women’s clothing. Well, before I know it, I have a cart full of potential items that will be coming home with me.

So with that being said, I thought I would use my obsession, I mean love, for Target for the good. You know give back a little.

Every Tuesday will be “Target Tuesday,” and I will be sharing with you some of my favorite Target fashion finds and the different ways you can wear each one. Below are things that I have actually purchased and will be showing you different ways I have styled them throughout the week.

 

First up, are these black mules by Merona. Love everything about them! They are super comfortable, yet stylish. And as a mom, you want something that’s comfy, not killing your feet,  while making you feel pulled together. I style these alot with my boyfriend jeans and white button down or with my skinny jeans and a cozy sweater.

My next fav is this hooded gray sweater vest by A New Day. It’s so soft and really great quality for the price.  You can style it over a pretty blouse, a white tee or even sheath dress. So it’s very versatile and a great transition piece going into spring. This sweater also comes in navy, olive green and oatmeal.

 

 

 

 

 

So I absolutely love a good denim button down! It is one of my favorite layering pieces.In fact, I will probably be sporting it with my new sweater vest and skinny jeans. The one pictured here is from last season but you can get one similar here.

Another way to style this denim button down is adding these fun earrings. As you know, I love a good statement piece.

Turquoise is almost like a neutral to me as you can style it with almost any color in your wardrobe.  I wear these all year round with navy, white of course, and then red during the summer time.

Then, last but not least, the white v neck tee. Everyone needs one or two in their closet. You can do so much with this classic staple. You can style it with blazers, leather jackets, a cardigan or by itself with fun accessories. Either way, this one is my favorite right now. I like the fact that the neck is not too low but low enough and it’s not too fitted but just enough to hug you in the right places. It’s also very soft. 

So there you go for this Target Tuesday!

As Julie Andrew’s would say, “These are a few of my favorite things!”

 

 

 

 

As promised, I am introducing you to some of my favorite “lady entrepreneurs,” that I  think you might like to meet. They are all wonderfully unique in their own way, while having one thing in common… they genuinely love people. These business ladies are encouragers, influencers and cheerleaders, even for others that are in their same industry. Don’t you just love that! Women empowering other women.

Some of you may already be familiar with these ladies as some are well-known but then there are others that are small business owners that I want to highlight and maybe even give you some more Christmas gift ideas.

1.) The first is a local company here in Nashville, called Dear Mushka. Katie Lewis, the owner’s nickname, given to her by her mother, was Mushka. So to honor her late mother, she started a blog “Dear Mushka” which then later switched to a jewelry brand to raise money for adoption. While working on her jewelry, she began memorizing scripture and noticed how it impacted her thoughts and actions. So now with each piece of jewelry that Katie has thoughtfully and prayerfully designed, you will receive a scripture card that you can put wherever you would like or maybe even pass on to a friend.  I absolutely love giving gifts that have a meaning behind them and that can even encourage someone or comfort them. The Dear Mushka jewelry is truly a treasure and even a great conversation piece to remind others of God’s love and grace. This company also has other things like key chains, which I have also given as gifts, as well as apparel and art.

2. ) Mercy Candle and Co. is one of my favorite candles to give for any occasion really, but especially this time of year. Each candle has a simple word or phrase such as “Gather,” “Grateful,” “Abundant,”  “Sunday Morning,” and the list goes on with all these wonderful warm and cozy sentiments.

So when I give these candles, I  always try to match the word with the person I am giving it to. For example, for our Sunday school teachers, I  do “Sunday Morning,  for friends and family, I do “Grateful” and then “Gather” for a hostess or housewarming gift. My point is there is a candle for every person in your life . All the candles smell so wonderful and they come packaged in this simple craft like box that only needs ribbon added to it (even if that) and it’s ready to go.

3.) I was just introduced to another lady led business, called May Designs and I am so glad that I was! First of all, the company’s website is just gorgeous in itself and is so fun to navigate. If you or someone in your life loves pretty notecards, journals, or really anything personalized or monogrammed, this is for you. I absolutely love nice stationary and this company allows you to pick the design, typestyle and even allows you to add your own customized logo or slogan. Handwritten notes seem to be a lost art these days unfortunately, but I am hoping this chic and savvy company, May Designs can bring it back. To me, showing your gratitude, especially with a nice, handwritten note, will always be in style.

4.) Well here I go again with my accessories. Imagine that! I love some good earrings, but I also have to be careful with the kind of earrings I wear. I cannot wear real heavy earrings so I found this company through Melanie Shankle, (also known as Big Mama) called Nickel and Suede. . The earrings are made out of this gorgeous leather in different styles and colors. They are super light, so comfortable and of course very stylish. When I say I wear these earrings almost every day, it is not an exaggeration! They go with everything and the shape is very flattering!  The founder and owner of the company also has a wonderful style blog, One Little Mama, that you should follow. I hope you will not only follow this savvy business mom, but will also shop at her company, Nickel and Suede. These earrings are great stocking stuffers or maybe just treat yourself this season. Why not! 

5.) So you probably knew what was coming next… my girl Melanie Shankle and her pal, Sophie Hudson’s new books, Home is Where My People Are and Church of the Small Things.  I mean how could I not put them on this girls gift guide list as many times as I referenced them here and in my last post.  If you have a friend that loves to read, I would highly recommend you gifting her with one of these books.  I absolutely love these women and I am so grateful for the good belly laughs and girl talk they bring me every week. Whether it’s through their books or podcast, Big Boo Cast, these ladies cover everything from pop culture, fashion to football. Go ahead and do yourself a favor and subscribe to this podcast. You will love it! Then subscribe to their blogs.  Or subscribe in whatever order you want, it’s just fine by me. Regardless, you will be so glad you were introduced to my buddies, Melanie and Sophie (I know, first name basis)  and wondered why the heck you didn’t know them before.  
Really, these lovely southern ladies’ books will truly make an impression on you and I love that most of their books meet you in whatever season of life you are in. In fact, Sophie Hudson just came out with a beautiful journaling devotional book for teenagers which would be great for a mom and daughter to do together. It’s called All in All.

6.) I am not usually a graphic t-shirt kind of gal, but when I tried on one of these Milk and Honey tees, I was sold!  I actually own three of Milk and Honey tees and I have my eye on the sweatshirt, “Homebody” and cool looking joggers right now. Hint, hint Santi! I not only love the quality of the tees, but the wonderful, yet simple messages they convey.
My girls read the tees every time I wear them. I mean every time as if they have never seen them before. I love it because they are great conversation starters and just a wonderful way to remind my girls “To be the happy they want to see in the world ” or that “love is kind,” especially in those moments that they are not loving on each other so well. So I hope you will check out Milk and Honey tees or maybe even the sweatshirts. Enjoy shopping and share what you get! I would love to see it!

7.) Need a one stop shop for the little bit in your life? Well, I have just place. It’s called Sugarbit. I mean how cute of a name is that?! What’s even cuter, are the fun baby, kids’ clothing and accessories that will make the little bit in your life happy. Natasha, the founder and owner of Sugarbit, has really thoughtfully curated a well-rounded inventory of unique items ranging from baby all the way to something for us Mamas. I hope you will stop by Sugarbit and while you are at it, check out Natasha’s blog, “Hello Happiness.” She features her favorite fashion finds, skincare products, her “one room at a time” interior updates and more. Here are a few ideas for stockings and under the tree from Sugarbit.

8.) I don’t know about you, but I can never ever think of a gift for the grandparents or really let’s be honest, “Grandma.” Well, guess what, I found this gem last year from Gracelaced that  is just so beautiful in itself but what’s even more special it has all of my mom’s grandchildren’s names. Gracelaced was started by Ruth Chou Simons, who is not only an entrepreneur, but an author, speaker and artist. Ruth’s gorgeous designs will truly warm your  heart and those that you gift these too. 

As I mentioned in my last post, it doesn’t matter about how much the gift is or the size of it, it’s the thought and meaning that goes with it.

I hope you will enjoy giving this season with some of my gift guides in mind. I would love to hear from you if you have other companies I should look at. Next week, I will be featuring some of my favorite go-to holiday party looks.

Well, I  am a little late (a day or two) to this “Giving Tuesday” party…but isn’t this time of year about giving no matter what day it is? I  absolutely love Christmas!  A chance to not only celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, but the opportunity to serve, to show others how much we love them, how special they are to us and how grateful we are.

With this time of year, I also know that it can be stressful with the holiday activities, getting the Christmas cards out (Lord have mercy), and then checking off that Christmas list not once but twice to make sure you didn’t forget anyone!

Just remember, as you are making that list and shopping this holiday season, it’s not how much or how little you give, it’s the thought and love that goes into the gift.

So while you are still trying to decide what to get each person on your list, I hope that you will take look at some of my favorite companies below. Every one of these companies’ true mission is giving back and making a positive impact not only locally but globally.

Now, have fun shopping and giving with a purpose and lots of love.

For the Baker and Suzy Homemaker:  Last year, I bought these precious aprons for my Aunt and her grandaughters. My Aunt B loves to bake and growing up she would gather all of the cousins in my grandmother’s kitchen to bake Christmas cookies. It was the most fun, especially eating the cookies part.

So thanks to this wonderful company Ziyada, that makes these darling aprons, I was not only able to give my Aunt something she and her grandchildren could enjoy and cherish, but also a gift that creates a better life for another mom or aunt. 

“Ziyada (Zee-yah-duh) means more—more hope, more help, more happiness, more health—for you and for our world. The company, Ziyada, exists to provide meaningful employment in a safe, loving environment for people caught in the devastating cycle of extreme poverty in North India, and in the process, to bring you more quality and beauty through each good we create.”

So with each product you purchase from Ziyada, you are part of the process of bringing more hope, more help, more happiness, and more health to the artisans who make it.

Although, I purchased these handmade aprons for my aunt and her grandchildren, they also have stockings, beautiful pillows and even high-quality yarn for you knitters out there.

For the Skincare Loving Sister or Friend: Whenever I  find a product that I not only love but that actually works, I  have to tell my friends about it or maybe just wrap it up and send it to them. So thanks to Jamie Ivey’s Happy Hour podcast, I was introduced to this organization called The Adventure Project that makes and sells this incredible charcoal soap. Again, with every purchase you are also helping someone else. So as The Adventure Project says, “Put a lump of coal in someone’s stocking and one woman in Kenya will receive a new charcoal-efficient stove.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another company I was just introduced to by yet another favorite Podcast (Big Boo Cast), is Hummingbird Farms. Hummingbird Farms is based out of Hill Country, in Hye, Texas. Lavender was first grown there in 2003 which is where they got their inspiration to develop and create clean, plant-based, aromatherapy body care products.  

I  just purchased the lotion, lavender spray, body oil and bubble bath for some lucky ladies. With each purchase, they donate a portion to charity. They have three charities you can pick from once you check out which I loved. The charities are Wendy Pollard Charitable Foundation, Hope Mommies and Hill Country SPCA.  

So why not get pampered for a purpose for this season!

For the Accessory Collector: So if you haven’t figured it out already, I am sucker for unique accessories and I also love to gift others with accessories. I love a good statement necklace, earrings or handbag. I also don’t mind scarves this time of year as it can change up any old outfit and make it new again.

So if you want to step out of your usual Kate Spade or Tory Burch box, check out Fashionable and Noonday Collection.  They have never disappointed in the quality and design aspect, but most importantly, with each product made, they are giving women jobs and empowering them to be active participants in their own communities. Even if you don’t purchase anything, I would encourage you to read about these companies and some of the stories about these women whose lives have been changed for the better.

Below are some of my favorite things. If you don’t want or need jewelry or handbags, they also carry home decor which is just as gorgeous and unique.

Tigist Clutch-this clutch is on my wish list. I love the rich colors it comes in, I love how simple, yet still very striking the design is. It’s also very versatile where you can wear it all year round.

Mamuye Tote-Another classic every day piece that you can  put your laptop in (or kids’ snacks like me) and it’s a great travel bag. It comes in a wide range of colors and there are other tote bags and styles on the site to check out including crossbody bags.

I adore this Aviary Noonday collection necklace. You can wear it with a simple black dress or a white tee and jeans. Either way, it’s a great go-to piece. I could see me wearing this all the time! Maybe I    need to send this link to Santa as a little hint. Kidding (not really). The great thing about this is that is under $50. Again, there are more necklaces and other accessories on this site, this just happens to be a fav!

Love a good statement infinity scarf to keep you warm but to also complete your look. This Noonday collection Stargazer infinity scarf is made in Peru and super soft. I  could see this with a fun Moto leather jacket and jeans or just a simple winter white dress, using the scarf as you main accessory of course.

Finally….For the Person That Has Everything:  Don’t worry. I have some ideas for you that will touch their heart as well as others.

So for some “special people” on our list this year, I just ordered and got in these beautiful ornaments from Prodigal Pottery. The pictures really don’t do them justice! They are absolutely gorgeous!

Prodigal Pottery’s mission is to provide a safe and therapeutic work environment for women in need so by buying their products it helps create more jobs and opportunities for these women to get back on their feet. This organization also creates other products like coffee mugs and ring dishes with your initial. I love how each piece is so unique and even better it goes to a great cause.

So I  hope you all will check these organizations while shopping with a purpose this holiday season.

Next week, I  will be talking about some of my favorite companies (some local) started and led by women. I promise you will want to check it out even if it’s to learn more about their businesses. So stay tuned!