Minted

You guys thought you had gotten rid of me for the day…sike!

I have been searching for fun Holiday cards, and thought I’d share a few of my favorites with y’all! I absolutely love Minted, and I have used them in the past for holiday cards, as well as birthday invites, and custom stationery. Here are a few of their cards that I have my eye on:

Christmas Twinkle Holiday Card

Happiest Holidays Photo Card

Gilded Holiday Mini Book

I love these mini books as a mom. It’s so fun getting to recap our year with Camryn, and share pictures of her growth with friends and family.

Another darling mini book

Twisted Peppermint Holiday Ornament Card

Silentish Night

I LOVE this one!!

Home for the Holidays (For anyone who recently moved)

Merry Typography Mini Card (New Baby)

Conversation Bubble Mini Card

Non Photo Card: Glitter Very Merry Mini Card

Naughty is Nice Mini Card

Those are all my favorites from Minted. Aren’t they adorable? Hope you found a few you like too.

XO – Samantha

Guest Post: Cheeia of “Notes By Cheeia”

1.|| In 10 words or less, describe yourself.

Wife, Daughter, Sister, Friend, Christian, Compassionate, Goofy, Sensitive, Beauty & Fashion Lover. Here’s more random facts about me: http://notesbycheeia.blogspot.com/2013/10/20-random-facts-about-me.html

2.|| In my dreams, I live in…

Colorado. As you get older you realize that it’s really not about the place that brings you joy, but the value of people. I’ve travelled all over the world and moved twice (Minnesota and currently residing in California) however, my heart lies in Colorado where I can enjoy my mom’s home cooked meals, gossip with my crazy sister, and a place filled with childhood memories. It’s authentic you can’t find it anywhere else!

3.||If I were a pair of shoes, I’d be…

Saint Laurent Classic Jane Ankle Strap – They say, you can tell alot about person from their shoes – Let me start off and say 90% of my wardrobe are solid colors – I’m plain Jane, however, I believe it’s simplicity that makes great statement pieces. Additionally, they’re versatile and you can mix-match these babies with any seasons/occasions! I don’t think they will never go out of style.

4.|| What beauty product can’t I live without?

Clinique Moisturizing Lotion – Sadly, I have very dry skin and I cannot go a day without it.

5.|| Why did I start blogging?

I was dating this guy for almost a year. I know that doesn’t sound long, but we moved in together right after we met and things got complicated. I was heartbroken when we split; however, I was able to move forward by reading and expressing myself through blogs. Strange how things work out sometimes right? I have a passion to serve women so the ultimate goal I have for my blog is to create my own space/community and build positive relationships! On another note, I have a big heart for fashion so it’s a cherry on top that I’m able to share that with my readers as well.

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Today I am guest posting over at Notes By Cheeia, and talking all about my marriage, so come and say hi! :-)

XO – Samantha

Give {A Delicious} Thanks

I have been trying to come up with quick, easy, and affordable gift ideas for my friends and family for Thanksgiving. It is, of course, the day to be thankful for all those wonderful people who support you, love you, and make your life that much sweeter. I decided the thing my loved ones enjoy most is food…desserts specifically…so I started looking up pie recipes, and stumbled upon these adorable “Pie In A Jar” recipes. Is it just me, or is everything in a mason jar so much cuter?!

Lets start with Layered Pumpkin Pie in a Jar, by Brenda of A Farmgirl Dabbles

Click here for her recipe.

More of an apple pie lover? These look mouth watering!

Click here for the recipe.

Cherry is my personal favorite, so I’ll be trying these.

You can check out the recipe here.

Or if you want a gift that can be mailed, why not try cookies in a jar!

Layer the dry ingredients, and attach a card to the jar with directions on what to add (wet ingredients) and baking instructions. Easy peasy, and so cheap!

XO – Samantha

 

Toddler Fashion

I have had a ton of sweet, sweet comments from a bunch of you on Instagram and Facebook saying that you love what my daughter is wearing, and wondering where you can purchase the same/similar items. I thought today I’d share some of my favorite outfits that she’s worn recently, and provide links to items that are still available.

TF2

Target Chambray Shirt - Purchased in a larger size 3-4T and belted with an adult belt (double wrapped).

Old Navy Cream & Gold Leggings

Freshly Picked Moccasins in Walnut

Scarf is an old scarf of mine that I cut in half. I do this ALL THE TIME!! Here’s a link to VonBon infinity cowls (not pictured) that we LOVE!!

TF3

Old Navy “Heart And Soul” sweater (sold out) – Similar

Shorts are very old – from Gap

Target Gold Shoes – Similar
TF5

Green Military Jacket - ON SALE!

Skinny Jeggings

TF1

H&M Skinny Jeans

White T-Shirt

Scarf – Mine, cut in half and sewn into a loop

Platinum Freshly Picked Moccs TF12

Red Railroad Style pants – Monoprix in Paris

Pink & Red Rain Cloud Shirt – Monoprix in Paris

TF11

Bathing suit – Not available during this season, but I always find the cutest swimsuits at Gap TF9

H&M skinny jeans

Walnut Freshly Picked Moccs

Scarf from the HAIR SECTION at Target. It’s meant as a hair wrap, but is the perfect kids size.

TF8

Chambray Tank Top
TF16 TF7 Leopard Print Loafers

Black Leggings

TF4

Red Skinny Jeans

TF14

Mustard Yellow Headband – Even cuter

White lace shirt

Shorts – Monoprix in Paris

TF20

TF15

Green Zip-Up Military Inspired Dress – H&M (Not available online) TF17

Polkadot Dress – Nordstrom Rack

TF18

Black & White striped leggings – Similar

Fur Vest – H&M in store only

TF19

Pink Hunter Boots

H&M Skinny Jeans (linked above)

Pink Plaid Top TF21

H&M Plaid Dress – In store only. Similar.

Here are a few items on my winter wardrobe wishlist for Camryn:

What are y’all loving for your little munchkin this fall and winter?

Thank you all again for the kindest comments about my mini, they are my favorite comments of all!! <3

XO – Samantha

Lust List

Lust List Image I mentioned yesterday that I needed some extra rest and TLC after a late night on the town with my husband and sister, so I thought I’d kick off this weeks list with where I was…

1.|| Vox Table’s {first} Pop-Up dinner on the 55th floor of the Austonian. Delicious food, a beautiful view, and a fun night with friends and family. For more information, and for updates on opening dates, you can check them out on their facebook page here.

2.|| I discovered Revelry House this week, and absolutely love their Christmas & New Years Boxes. What a quick and easy way to host a fabulous party. I need to get my hands on these, because I LOVE any reason to throw a party!!

3.|| I love this art framed in Taylors beautiful Nursery/Office, and pretty much everything else in there.

4.|| If I ever move again, I’m making these.

5.|| Kids holiday P.J.’s that are oh-so-cute! Girl: One, Two, Three & Boys: One, Two

6.|| Camryn hasn’t seen Monsters University yet, so I will definitely be making some monster munch when we do.

7.|| I am officially obsessed with Zara Kids clothing, shoes…everything.

8.|| ALL {ok, I’m being dramatic}…Most of my friends are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or already have kids, so these darling little VONBON gift sets are going to put me in the poor house. Camryn owns a few pieces, so reviews coming soon.

9.|| Thanksgiving is all about family, good food, and reflection. These DIY placemats are such a fun way for everyone to share what they’re thankful for.

10.|| This is going to be my next trash read.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

XO – Samantha

 

VIB Sale Starts Today!

It’s that day…Sephora’s VIB Sale, November 7-11th. If you didn’t recieve your coupons via mail, or e-mail, then use code VIBTOPIA for 20% off your order.

If you missed my post about what I’ll be purchasing, you can find it here.

My husband, sister, and I went out last night to a pop-up dinner for a VOX Table, benefiting NO KID HUNGRY. So fun, but we didn’t get home until after 11pm. This Mama is taking the rest of today to rest, and I’ll be back tomorrow for my Friday Lust List!

I wanna know what y’all get from the Sephora sale – leave me comments! Is there any product I need to try?

XO – Samantha

 

Guest Post: Begonia Sky

I am so excited to have Kyra guest posting today, and I know you guys are going to absolutely love her, and her blog. Kyra and I met through a Lucky Magazine contributors forum, and after looking over her blog, I knew that #1. I (secretly) wanted to be her BFF because she’s so cool, and #2. Her blog was way too good not to share with all of you! ;-)

Marc Jacobs black handbag, $2,240 / Matte lipstick / ASOS red high waisted legging / Dr. Martens leather boots / London painting, $24
1. In 10 words or less, describe yourself.
Avid traveller, self-proclaimed fashionista, and animal documentary watcher.
2. “In my dreams, I live in…”
In my dreams I live in London or Italy. I’m in love with the culture. I’d love to be in a place with a view, nice kitchen and a really big closet!
3. “If I were a pair of shoes, I’d be…”
If I were a pair of shoes I would be Dr. Martens because I like to think I’m intimidating sometimes.
4. What beauty product can’t you live without?
I can’t live without a bold lipstick. I have three in my purse right now, which is probably a bit over the top.
5. Why did you start blogging?
There wasn’t much of an opportunity to write about fashion in my school’s journalism program, so I started my own blog. It’s so much easier to post on my own time and post about whatever I want. And I wanted an excuse to go shopping more — to be honest, that’s the main reason.
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If all of you aren’t thinking “WOW she’s beautiful!” then you either didn’t look at her picture, or you’re blind.
Thank you Kyra, you have been so fun to get to know, and I think your blog is going to become so much more than just a reason for you to shop. :-)
Go check out my post over on Kyra’s blog, and see what a day in my life really looks like…I’ll tell you a secret…it’s not glamorous!! Check out her hair transformation too. She went from light brown with ombre highlights, to red, and then to a dark brown in just a few days.
XO – Samantha

Pantone Spring 2014 Colors Decoded

Quick Side Note: Piperlime is having a sitewide 40% sale today, so don’t miss out! Jessica Alba, Rachel Zoe, and Olivia Palermo, all very beautiful, and very well dressed ladies, share their favorite items so go check it out. My favorite pieces are:

This chunky Derek Lam sweater is gorgeous!!

This novelty “Oui” sweater is so fun, and I just can’t help but love it.

This sweater has a different play on elbow patches. Classic in color, and never out of style.

I am mad for plaid right now, and this looks so chic and comfortable.

Military inspired hooded vest.

This is the perfect layering bracelet, and the added texture gives it a more modern look.

The perfect silk blouse, which can easily be paired with any outfit. It’s on sale, plus you can take the additional 40% off. This one is a steal!!!

There are tons of other great pieces, so go take a peek. :-)

On to todays real post….

I shared this with the readers of CanYaHeelMe? last week, but I wanted to share it with y’all, just in case you missed it.

I’m decoding the Pantone Spring 2014 colors, and helping you find pieces will take you through fall, all the way into next summer. Pantone paired the typical pastel spring colors with brighter, bolder counterparts, which makes this a much more wearable palette. I’ve chosen timeless designers, and quality items that will last you for years to come, so add a few of these items to your christmas list!

Pantone Spring 2014 - Fashion Translation

Pantone Spring 2014 – Fashion Translation by playdatesandpearls Links At End of Post, or click photo to shop this board.

Placid Blue: A neutral to most colors, Placid blue can act as a background color, or has the ability to shine on it’s own. I love pairing light blue with light pink, peach, and navy. Because this color is so muted, it can easily be worn in larger scales, such as a maxi dress.

Violet Tulip: This is the epitome of spring to me; a nostalgic color. This dreamy, and oh-so-florally purple pairs well with coppers, navy, and white. To avoid looking “bubblegum-esque”, wear this shade sparingly, as a statement necklace, or sandals.

Cayenne: Va-va-voom! Cayenne is on fire. This loud color plays best with other prints, such as florals, and animal prints. Wear this as a chic blazer, or even as skinny jeans.

Celosia Orange: This is not your Mama’s orange. This sophisticated, richer tone of orange, would pair beautifully with Violet Tulip pieces “for a captivating vision, much like the setting summer sun.” -Leatrice Eiseman, Pantones Executive Director

Hemlock: This “neutral” color also plays well with almost anything! An “ornamental green”, which looks beautiful as military inspired jackets or pants, as well as mixed in with florals.

Dazzling Blue: My favorite of all the spring colors, dazzling blue is the “POP!” of color that makes all the other colors of this Pantone Spring Palette come to life. Dazzling blue compliments almost all skin-tones, and hair colors, and adds a sparkle to any outfit. I love pairing this color with lighter blues, like Placid blue, as well as turquoises, pale pinks, golds and silvers, and crisp whites.

Freesia: Tropical, florally, and another nostalgic spring color. When we think of this shade of yellow, we all think of the classic rain boots. Stick to the classics, or pair this with any of the other spring colors for an updated look.

Radiant Orchid: The bolder counterpart to violet tulip, this deeper shade of purple looks especially pretty when paired with blues and pinks.

Paloma: The quintessential neutral, which can easily be the backdrop to any color, adds a touch of class. For a richer, tone-on-tone look, pair varying shades of gray together. For glamour, pair with gold.

Sand: A great color for combining with other colors, but also beautiful on it’s own. Sand gives a feeling of warmth. This beachy color can be used to your advantage to create longer, leaner legs, with nude heels.

Many of these colors are great year round, so don’t be afraid to start experimenting with them this fall and winter. I have been loving chunky sweaters in Sand and Dazzling Blue especially. Of course, the easiest way to play with all of these colors is with shoes, so embrace your inner shoe-aholic, and get to shopping!

XO – Samantha

Tory Burch dress / PJK Patterson J. Kincaid cotton jacket / Jessica Simpson denim legging / AG Adriano Goldschmied torn legging / Kate Spade flat shoes / Tory Burch ballet flat / Frye sandals / Sigerson Morrison flat shoes / Kate Spade flat shoes / Balenciaga flat sandals / Kate Spade shoes / TOMS flat shoes / Vince Camuto slip on shoes / TOMS flat shoes / Balenciaga flat sandals / Balenciaga flat shoes / Tory Burch messenger bag / Tory Burch purse / Valextra orange purse / Tory Burch crossbody / Tory Burch shoulder bag / Gorjana bangle bracelet, $195 / Kate Spade jewelry / Kate Spade jewelry / Kate Spade jewelry / Kate Spade jewelry / Kate Spade jewelry / Forever 21 scarve / Tory Burch sunglasses / River Island sunglasses, $21 / Maison Boinet leather belt / Vito Short With Anchor Embroidery / Nordstrom lip gloss / Laura Mercier nail polish / Deborah Lippmann nail polish / Hunter Original Packable Tour

Sephora VIB Sale Wishlist

You guys asked (over, and over, and over again) so I’m here to deliver! Wanna know what’s on my wishlist from Sephora? What new products will I be trying, and which products will I be repurchasing because they’re just that good? I hope you’ve been saving your pennies, and men, get ready to take notes because I know exactly what your lady wants under the Christmas tree! Click on any of the images below to purchase them from Sephora.

Let’s start with the items I’m repurchasing, and can vouch for in quality.

REPURCHASES:

His & Hers Fragrance Sampler. I buy these for my husband and I every year, and love them because the sample sizes are perfect for travelling, and we can each redeem the certificate for a full-size of our favorite scent. Getting a man to go to the store and walk around smelling colognes is pretty much never gonna happen, so this is a great gift for every guy. Perk – this year Sephora has included a little bag with each sampler set.

The Kate Somerville goat’s milk cream is one of the most beautiful moisturizers I’ve ever used. It’s so hydrating, and feels luxurious when you apply it, but never leaves that greasy/oily residue. The thing that has me coming back for more is that it never irritates my skin, and is formulated specifically to calm and hydrate sensitive skin.

I have used this foundation for over 2 years, and I am still absolutely head over heels in love with it still. It is so incredibly pigmented, but never looks or feels cakey. It gives the most flawless finish, and is the foundation I reach for when I’m going out and need more coverage, and need my makeup to last. It’s not cheap, so I definitely don’t wear it around town to pick up groceries or take my kiddo to the park. The finish is satin, and is good for most skin types. I would avoid this if you have very dry skin, and oily skin types might prefer the matte velvet version.

I bought last year’s “Give me more lip” box and was so happy I did. Last year’s focus was on nudes, and “your lips but better” colors, so I am smitten with this years berry toned colors. This $59 box has a value of $209, an absolute steal!

I also purchased this box last year, but as a gift for my sister. I regretted only buying one for a very long time. This year, I will not make the same mistake. $45 for $145 value. Again, an absolute bargain, and the perfect way to try out high-end mascaras without the $20+ price tags. The YSL babydoll lashes is my favorite mascara, so if you haven’t tried it already, heres your chance.

This is the all around best gift box for makeup lovers. I purchased this box last year also, and loved every single product. Many of the products are repeats from last year, so I wont be purchasing this again, but I couldn’t leave this off the list. It’s an insanely good value, and I can vouch for 8 of the 13 products. If I didn’t already own most of the items, you can bet I’d be buying this!

If you are like me, and have already purchased the Superstars box from last year, then this might be the box for you this year. I am most excited about the Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelee, the Urban Decay eyeshadow in Space Cowboy (which looks similar to Stilla’s Kitten, an all time favorite of mine), and the Too Faced multi-function eyeliner which has 3 points on the end….very interesting….

and lastly for products I’ll be repurchasing, my Ren Radiance kit.

You’ve heard me mention this mask before, and you’ll hear about it again I’m sure. It’s a staple in my skincare routine, and I would hate to ever have to be without it.

Now onto items I have never used, but have researched and read great reviews on, and will be purchasing for myself or as gifts.

Anastasia Brow powder (in color medium brown). I have used other items from the Anastasia brow line, and have heard nothing but rave reviews about this brow powder, so I’m jumping on the bandwagon and hoping it’s as good as all her other products.

Nars Creamy concealer in Custard. I prefer moisture rich concealers that set, but don’t look dried out on the skin. I have very fine lines under my eyes, and don’t want a concealer that will crease or settle into those lines. This concealer is a cult favorite, and I can’t wait to try it.

Becca’s Shimmering Skin Perfector in Pearls. I watch Lisa Eldridge, a celebrity makeup artist, on Youtube all the time and she highly recommends this product for a naturally glowing complexion. Watch this video for more highlighter information from her. This is a liquid highlighter than can be applied to the tops of your cheekbones, down the center of your nose, and along your cupids bow to create depth, and a more youthful appearance. I use powder highlighters in the summer because my skin tends to be more combination/oily, but in winter I like to use liquid highlighters and blushes because my skin is more normal to dry. If you want to try this product without purchasing a full-size, use code OPAL to receive a sample when purchasing anything over $25.

These ambient lighting powders may look like your traditional highlighters, but they are so much more. These are finishing powders which “ capture, diffuse, and soften the way light reflects on your skin.” I am so intrigued by these, and am eager to try anything that claims to give me that “candle lit glow”. This palette offers a limited edition shade, Incandescent light.

I mentioned this face mask in this post. I have been patiently waiting to get my hands on this mask, because everytime I mention it to anyone, I get an ear full about how AMAZING it is.

I am always trying new skincare products, and this is another one that I’ve heard really good things about. I have used the Origins Ginzing under eye cream and really liked the brightening effect, so I’m hoping this has similar results for my entire face. For a less expensive hydrating option, I might consider grabbing Dr Jarts Water Fuse Water-Sure Gel, a moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid to plump skin.

This mask gets a lot of hype in the professional makeup world. I saw this again recently on Lisa Eldridge’s video about fixing problematic skin while on set, and this was one of her go-to products for dry, irritated skin. This sheet mask is soaked in a fusion of “ vitamin, amino acids, minerals, and organic acids.” These are not cheap, but rather a luxury mask for days of pampering, or when your skin is desperate for a pick-me-up.

Laura Mercier’s Souffle Body Creme is another luxury product that I hope to find under my christmas tree. These are decadent, whipped yet rich and moisturizing, and leave your skin feeling incredible. The 4 scents are Almond Coconut Milk, Ambre Vanillè, Créme de Pistache, and Fresh Fig. Mmmmm!! This is the perfect high-end gift set for your mom, sister, or beauty-loving-friend.

Soap & Glory’s Sugar Crush body wash and body butter are the perfect combination for more frequent use, in comparison to the Laura Mercier body butters, and come in at a much more affordable price point. The body wash smells absolutely gorgeous, and friends have told me it leaves your skin feeling hydrated, and never stripped like other washes can. The body butter is formulated with shea and aloe, so your skin will stay soft and supple. The packaging is so over-the-top and girly, and I for one am a huge fan! :-)

For the nail lovers, this is the Mac Daddy set of Sephora’s newest nail line, Formula X. This nail polish is thick, and looks very similar to gel nails. Here’s what Sephora has to say about the color selection: “Creams provide ultralong wear and incredible saturated color in just one swipe. Neons are mega bright and dry down to a matte finish. Chromes glide on creamy and dry to a smooth, reflective finish. Xplosive top coats create the ultimate splatter effect with a matte confetti glitter that can be worn alone or over any nail color. “

And last, but not least, the item I hope to find waiting for me on December 1st….

The benefit “countdown to love” advent calendar. My mom has bought advent calendars for my sister and I every year since we were kids, and this year I’m skipping the little chocolates and hoping to open this little box of makeup surprises. The Pop Art box drew me in, but the promise of Benefit goodies, including 3 of their bestsellers is what sold me.

Hope you all enjoyed my Sephora Wish List, and if you’re a VIB shopper, don’t miss out on the annual 20% off sale beginning November 7th. As you can see, I will clearly be there.

XO – Samantha

Lust List – 11/1

Lust List Image 1.|| Celebs dressing as other celebs. Ellen’s costume is hysterical.

2.|| I’ve had my eye on this Kate Spade watch. It’s so feminine, and classic.

3.|| A caramel apple bar – these look delicious, and like a fun kid activity, or addition to a party.

4.|| I received a Wet Brush in my October POPSUGAR box, and I am IN LOVE!! I have very long, curly, tangly hair, and I will never go a day without one of these ever again. Miracle worker!

5.|| Sometimes the most simple and functional decor is the prettiest. DIY gold + acrylic clipboards for office spaces.

6.|| This living room and dining room before and after are incredible. I absolutely love Kristen’s work!

7.|| Holiday inspired nails. I wish I had this type of nail painting talent!

Hope you all had a safe, and fun Halloween! My husband and I were Woody and Jessie, and Camryn was Buzz Lightyear. Pictures are on my Instagram if you want to see. :-)

If you haven’t entered the necklace giveaway yet, here’s the link.

XO – Samantha

I’m also linking up with Lulu of Simply Lulu Style, so come visit me here.

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