Dogs at Weddings

If you have a dog and are debating whether or not you should include him or her in your wedding — the answer is YES! But, please, do not dress them in cheesy tuxedos and frilly dresses. After a quick Pinterest search I found a few cute pups ready to walk down the aisle. Enjoy!

 

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Keep is simple and sophisticated with a thin ribbon and fresh flower.

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If your pooch is well-behaved opt for a full wreath with flowers that compliment your bouquet. Make sure the flowers are dog friendly!

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Match your dogs bow tie with the wedding party for a chic look.

If you are looking for dog friendly attire check out these Etsy shops – LA Dog Shop, Bow Wow Couture and Me and Matilda.

Happy planning! xoxo

Boho Chic

I am currently crushing on the flower crown trend.  I’ve noticed the headgear in a few magazines, and love the whimsical look it adds to a simple dress…especially a wedding dress. You can find a ton of pictures on Pinterest and can score an inexpensive floral headband on Etsy.  If you’re looking to add a tidbit of vintage glam to your big day, check out the ideas below.

 

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If you are thinking of adding a bohemian headpiece to your bridal ensemble, or just want to rock a flower headband for fun, here are a few shops to check out: Whichgoose, Beau xoxo and Peckled

Happy planning! xoxo

Getting to know Kalla

During the day my job requires me to scan local newspapers to find mentions of the organization I work for. To some it’s a tedious task, but to me it’s a great way to stay on top of things and even discover a new recipe, restaurant or trendy business.

Earlier this year, I came across a  short mention about Kalla, a floral design company that serves Miami and Chicago. I’m usually not a fan of flowers. I think they are beautiful, but I can do without lame floral arrangements for Valentine’s Day, or a box of flowers I have to arrange myself for my birthday. Typically, they only last a few days, and I can really do without the flowery aftermath of a vase filled with slimy leaves and dingy water…But my hatred quickly disappeared when I started reaching Kalla. I was immediately drawn in by the gorgeous blooms and chic vases, so I snipped the mention and tucked it in my bag for safe keeping….Fully aware that my husband would soon inquire about what I wanted for our anniversary.  I’m proactive…what can I say!

Without fail, my husband asked about gifts as our anniversary approached, and I casually handed him the newspaper clipping. A few weeks later, a beautifully packaged floral arrangement arrived at my doorstep. I was smitten…with the box. It was amazing.

The flowers also didn’t disappoint. They were fresh and possessed a strong but not overpowering floral scent that lingered in the room — it was heavenly– and theywere arranged in a fancy vase, which tied everything together and matched perfectly with my office.

 

Kalla definitely {hand} delivered a quality product. Did I mention the arrangements are delivered using a white glove delivery service? How cool is that?  They also offer same day delivery if the order is placed by 11 a.m.

Oh, and there’s also a box of chocolate perfectly positioned in the velvet lined box. Really, really delicious chocolate.

I was over the moon with my anniversary gift, and I am now a huge fan of Kalla. They know how to make someone feel special, and their attention to detail is impeccable. They sent a card to my husband a few days later to thank him for his order. A+ for customer service!

Based on my experience of receiving the Kalla Bea & the Lady floral arrangement as a gift, I highly recommend them to anyone looking for an out of the box present for a special someone….or even yourself. I’m debating about ordering the Athena & Artemis just because.

For more information on Kalla, visit Kalla.com or call 1.888.580.2462.

Enjoy!  xoxo

 

 

Fashion Friday: Garden Party

It’s wedding season, and I’ve been searching for an outfit that I can wear to an outdoor affair in October for the past few weeks. Since I’ll be  out of my element — The event is in North Carolina — I decided a long dress is probably my best bet to keep me from freezing in the 60 degree weather.  I’m from Florida — Anything below 85 calls for a sweater. After a quick search on Keep.com, I put together a garden inspired outfit that can go from an outdoor ceremony to twirling (Gone with the Wind style) in the reception.

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NOH8 Campaign – Posing for Equality

I’ve been following the NOH8 campaign for a while and have been anxiously waiting for the organization to take their cause to South Florida. Luckily, a few weeks ago my husband and I had the opportunity to finally show our support and strike a pose.

The NOH8 Campaign is a photographic silent protest created by celebrity photographer Adam Bouska and partner Jeff Parshley in direct response to the passage of Proposition 8. Photo participants are featured with a painted “NOH8” symbol  on their cheek and duct tape over their mouths, symbolizing their voices being silenced by Prop 8 and similar legislation around the world.

The event was held at the Westin in Fort Lauderdale and to participate the rules were pretty simple — come camera ready, wear white and pose and make a statement. A challenge my husband and I were ready to take.

To prepare for the shoot I headed over to Blow and Go in Parkland and had an amazing team of glam fairies help me get ready for my close up. After my hair was curled and make-up was perfected, we headed over to the hotel, filled out our paperwork and patiently waited our turn — taking #selfies to help pass the time.

 

The atmosphere was incredible and the room was full of positive energy and love.  Everyone was there for a reason and it was an amazing feeling. When our number was finally called, we donned the infamous duct tape and were greeted by Adam Bouska, the photographer.  He was extremely friendly, welcoming and easy to work with. In fact, he hugged and thanked every single person he photographed. He positioned us in a few poses and snapped away.  He even gave us a sneak peek of the photos, and from what I saw, they looked awesome! We were told the photos take about 8-10 weeks to receive, and I believe you receive one or two from the bunch. I can’t wait to see them.

On our way out, we decided to take one last photo, thankfully a few volunteers offered to help. Overall, the experience was amazing, and I highly recommend participating, if equality is your thing… To see if the campaign is coming to a city near you, check out the event page on the NOH8 website. Take a stand and join the fight, because if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.

enjoy! xoxo

 

 

Dress to impress

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Fashion Friday: California Chrome

Today’s post is dedicated to California Chrome, the product of a $10,000 breeding investment, Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner and latest contender for the Triple Crown. I don’t usually follow horse racing too closely, but California Chrome has a great story, and he has been really exciting to watch. Plus, I have a soft spot for horses.

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Since California Chrome’s colors are purple and green, today I am posting my favorite purple and green combos to commemorate the American Thoroughbred on his way to make history. Good luck!!

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Cheer on California Chrome on Saturday as he races in the Belmont Stakes.

Weekend Casual

It’s been a long {short} week. Thankfully, the weekend is finally here and plans are low-key, which makes dressing down totally appropriate.  One of my favorite weekend staples is the J. Crew t-shirts., and, you can usually score two for $20 at their outlet store.  Paired with a great pair of jeans shorts and some sandals, your look will be a combination of laid back and beachy chic — the perfect Florida ensemble.

J Crew v neck top / Pull&Bear cotton shorts, $33 / Jeweled sandals / Sole Society straw fedora hat

Hello, New York

Last month I attended a PRSA/Regan Communications conference in New York City for work. The conference was about media relations and best practices and was a great escape from the SoFL sun.  I’ve visited New York a few times but never stayed in the City for more than a few hours.

Luckily during this particular work trip, my husband tagged along and we spent whatever free time we had exploring the city. Normally, I am not a fan of walking anywhere, and living in South Florida, walking is something you do at the mall, the beach or if your car runs out of gas on the side of the road… but there was something magical about walking down the streets of Union Square. I think it was a mix of the history, culture and pure adrenaline of those walking around you. Everyone was stylish and had a sense of urgency.  It was an eye-opening experience and made me realize that I’m not meant to live in a boring suburban neighborhood working a non-creative 9 to 5 p.m. job.  So, I’m on a mission to make a few changes. I’m not sure what kind just yet, but I’m going to start exploring my options.

Here’s a few highlights from my trip:

Hyatt Union Square: We stayed at the Hyatt and I was really happy with our choice.  Everyone was friendly, the rooms were comfortable and the hotel was very chic. Plus, we were pretty close to everything.

 

The Spotted Pig: Our first foodie stop was the Spotted Pig in the West Village. Since we arrived a little late, the menu options were limited.  We both ordered the cheeseburger and shoestring fries.  Although I wasn’t super impressed, the burger was good and the restaurant was very cool.

Spice: We stumbled upon Spice, a Thai food restaurant, by accident.  The food was amazing and they have a few locations throughout the city.

Max Brenner: A friend recommended this restaurant and we’re glad we listened.  Max Brenner’s is a sweet lover’s dream and they serve food, drinks and of course dessert.  We ordered the sugar waffles with vanilla ice cream, but if we had more room to indulge we would have opted for the fondue.

Big Gay Ice Cream Shop: We stopped in for a delicious vanilla ice cream cone and of course snapped some photos.

Katz’s Delicatessen: This place is iconic and worth the crazy lines inside, if you’re a fan of pastrami sandwiches.

 

We definitely didn’t get to see everything we were hoping for, but we did pretty good for three short days.  I’m already planning my next trip, and hopefully, next time I’m there it will be for an interview.

What’s your favorite place in the city? I need sightseeing and restaurant recommendations!

 

 

 

 

 

Fashion Friday: A day at the beach

I put together this laid back pool outfit but lost all of my sources! I’m sharing it as my first Fashion Friday post, a weekly update I hope continue.  Enjoy! And, if you know where I can buy the cover up and sandals, please let me know!