Lifestyle / Outfits

WHAT TO WEAR TO A CASUAL HOLIDAY PARTY

12.14.17

With the holiday celebrations in full swing, I’ve been finding myself sorting through my closet for something special to wear — dressy, but not too dressy — casual, but not jeans and a tee. Scott and I have always been pretty low-key in our celebrations, but we do love getting a tad dressed up to celebrate the season with our closest friends, family and coworkers. This time of year also usually seems throws me into a bit of a spin when it comes to picking out which outfits to wear to all these memorable holiday events, but this year — I think I’ve got it!

I’ve realized that the key to looking dressy for the holidays, while still keeping things casual enough that you feel comfortable and yourself in, is to mix and match those special pieces with your favorite everyday wears. This Madewell x No. 06 collab silk dress (which is now sadly out of stock — fingers crossed it comes back soon1) is the show stopper when it comes to this year’s party wear — it’s silky, long and makes me feel dressed up (but not over dressed). And while I know that I could easily dress it up even more with a nice pair of pumps and a classic clutch if need be, I kept things casual with my favorite accessories — black heeled boots, my beloved leather jacket, a wide brimmed hat and a Sezane bag (the ultimate casual and classic brand, if you ask me!). 

This past weekend was my work’s annual holiday party and this is exactly what I wore (minus the hat, that is — I was having a good hair day)! We tend to keep things pretty casual around the office and at our get togethers, so wearing this outfit felt perfectly right! We celebrated the amazing year we had at a local wine bar with our incredible team from near and far surrounding us. There may have been a few games of charades, along with a little Q&A and a Christmas sing along! I truly work with the most amazing group of people and couldn’t be more thankful for my work family! Ok, ok — I’ll stop being mooshy, but it’s true! Tis the seasons for ALL the feelings, right?!

What’s the dress code at your work holiday party or your next festive get-together? I have to say — I wouldn’t be mad if we had to dress up full glam, black tie and all, one of these days! I’ve actually been ooing and awwing over Gal Meets Glam’s recent holiday wear posts and could totally see myself dressing up in some of those beautiful gowns she has!

I would love to hear your tips and tricks on what to wear to a casual holiday party! Style is SO fun because you can always play it up or play it down depending on your mood or the occasion. 8+ years into “style” blogging and I’m still truly enjoying sharing my daily wears — who would have thought! Here’s to a festive and casual holiday party season, friends! Hope you have the best time celebrating with your loved ones! 

-Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle

DECKING THE HALLS + A DIY HOT COCO BAR WITH FRAMEBRIDGE

12.11.17

We are exactly two weeks away from Christmas day and I truly can’t believe how quickly the month has gone by! While Scott and I have been busy bees with our pop-up shops and holiday markets with Citizen HD, we’ve been trying to squeeze in all the holiday vibes + activities while we still can — including non-stop Christmas music in the car to and from our events, ooing and awwhing every time we see a house fully decked out in lights and, of course — taking part in all the festive treats we can get our hands on! We’re actually hoping to host a few friends before the holidays come, and we figured what more perfect way then to celebrate with a DIY hot coco party! So today we’re partnering up with the rad folks over at Framebridge to share how we amped up our dining space for the holidays with the help of one of their beautiful large frames, along with a few quick and easy steps on how to host a DIY hot coco party! 

You may or may not know this, but Scott and I live in a very tiny house — our living room, kitchen and dining area all blend together in about 300 square feet. Knowing that our spaces all blend together, I’ve been working hard since we moved in last May to make each space feel like its own. Since our dining area is extra tiny, about 65 square feet, we really wanted a large piece that could help the area stand on its own — along with making it feel ready and complete for the holidays!

I picked up this 24″ x 36″ desert print from Fine Life Co. a few months back and have been trying to decide on the perfect place to hang it. Knowing that our dining room was in need of an update for the holidays, I decided on framing it in the most gorgeous Richmond frame and placing it right above our dining table. We actually have another Richmond frame in the far corner of our living room, so while this one can stand on its own — it feels complimentary to the other frame and space we have in this combined 300 square feet. And now that this piece is framed + hung up in its new home — we’re all set to get our hot coco on! 

DIY Hot Coco Bar Party —

Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Hot coco of your choice! We used pre-made peppermint hot coco packets from Target, but you can definitely make your own mix!

2. Toppings galore! Marshmallows are a must, but white chocolate peppermint pieces and candy canes are sure to be a nice touch. We also had whipped cream, sprinkles and cookies to dunk in the hot coco off to the side.

3. A little holiday flare! Gold paper straws, twinkle lights, flowers (this beautiful bunch is from a local shop — Camelback Flowershop!), and sparkly stars for the table! Little touches that make the holiday celebrations feel extra shiny and bright!

4. A festive playlist! Apple Music and Spotify have their own amazing holiday playlists, but don’t be afraid to create your own with all of your favorite holiday tunes included. 

5. Party guests! Gather your friends and family around for an afternoon or evening of hot coco, Christmas tunes and time together during the happiest time of the year!   

Adding in loads of toppings just might be my favorite part of making hot coco! I’ve always been ALL about the marshmallows, but lately I’ve been loving adding in bits of chocolate that I can swirl around and in either melt into the hot coco, or eat with a spoon once I get to the bottom of the cup — I guess you could call it a double desert at that point, haha!

What kind of get togethers are you planning for the holiday season? Hot coco party? Christmas cookie exchange? White elephant party? They are so many reasons and ways to celebrate the season upon us and I am SO excited to get things rolling around here — especially now that our space is feeling complete with our newly framed piece from Framebridge that really made such a huge impact in our tiny dining area! 

Have you guys ever used Framebridge’s framing services before? Their quick and easy process goes like this — you upload the image you want framed, either from your computer or Instagram (or send in a photo, art print, etc., that you already own in a pre-paid package — which is what we did this time around), then you choose the size and matte type you would like, pick your frame and then send it off to be created and sent back to you with lots of love and care! Super easy, right? Scott and I have quite a collection of Framebridge pieces in our home and we honestly couldn’t love each piece more — all beautifully framed and proudly hanging in our tiny space! 

And if you’re still in need of a gift, there’s still time to give the gift of Framebridge to your family and friends this holiday season! Order digital photo gifts by 12/17 for guaranteed delivery by 12/23! I hope ya’ll enjoyed this post and will host your own DIY hot coco party with your family and friends — please let me know if you’re planning on doing so! This would also be a fun idea for New Year’s Eve and even post-Christmas on a blustery, wintery day! Here’s to a wonderful week, friends, and I’ll be back soon!

-Chelsea xo 

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Lifestyle

ONTO THE WEEKEND — 16

12.10.17

Hey there! The weekend is here and I feel like Scott and I have already had a very full one — lots of family time, squeezing my bestie all the from CA and shooting a few fun collabs that I’ll be sharing here soon! Scott and I are actually off to a market in the morning at Uptown Plaza in Phoenix, so if you’re local — come see us from 10am-3pm! Until then, though — here’s a few thoughts + things that came across my mind/caught my eye the last few days —

— The Sezane Magic Christmas Capsule is launching tomorrow and everything is SO beautiful! 

— Scott and I partnered up with the rad folks rom South Dakota Tourism for a fun giveaway — check it out on their Facebook page now! 

— I finally framed this print that I bought from Fine Life Co. awhile back — can’t wait to share more photos soon!

— Have you seen Nicole’s new blog site yet? It’s GORGEOUS! 

— Do ya’ll know my friend Jane? She blogs over at A Taste of Koko and is truly one of a kind — hop on over to her site now for good eats, travel adventures, recipes and more! 

And in case you missed it on CB these past few weeks:

— I’m sharing a few of my fav shops to gift home decor items from! 

— A few thoughts on this busy season we’re in + photos with my love! 

— There’s a new day in the life vlog up on my channel now! 

Are we friends on Pinterest yet? Hope ya’ll are having a great weekend!

-Chels xo

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Lifestyle

FOR THE HOME — 09 // FAVORITE SHOPS FOR HOME DECOR GIFTING

12.07.17

Christmas is officially 19 days away and truth be told — I have barely started buying gifts for my loved ones! This year I’m trying to focus more on quality than quantity when it comes to picking and choosing presents for those I love, but with that said — I’ve also been feeling a bit in a rut with which kind of gifts to give. Now that we’re all a bit older and have our own places, though — the thought of gifting more home decor pieces has been on my mind lately. And while I know home decor can be a very personal choice, I also believe that gifting these type of pieces can be the perfect way of mixing beauty and functionality — something that we all seem to craze. Plus, browsing the new-in home decor sections (holiday or not) is a pastime of mine and something I would be doing even if the gift giving season wasn’t currently here. Raise your hand if you hear me!

In case you’re also on the hunt for home decor pieces to gift this holiday season, or just feel like browsing those post-holiday sales — here’s a few of my favorite shops to browse + buy home decor gifting pieces from —

I would love to know if you have any home decor gifts you love to give? We’re pretty big into gift cheese boards and framed photos around here! Anyways, I hope ya’ll are having an amazing week and I’ll be back soon!

-Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle / Outfits

IN THE COTTON FIELD

12.04.17

When life gets busy, and the long days seem to blend together — what’s the best medicine to clear the busy blues? An evening outdoors, of course! Recently, Scott and I took a break leading up to our busiest handmade market of the season to snap a few photos with our good friend, Katie, and the results are something I’ll cherish forever and ever! 

Equal Uprise Hat                                                                                                              
Roolee Adelyn Pocket Dress                                                                                                    Madewell Brenner Boots

We’re off to start another busy week — with a holiday pop-up shop with Citizen Home Decor at our local J.Crew and a holiday party in tow! We’re also planning a quick trip to Tucson, Arizona, on Friday — so if you have any suggestions on coffee shops, restaurants and boutiques to check out — we are all ears! Be back soon, friends!

-Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle

#BIGLITTLEGIFTS WITH SHANE COMPANY

12.01.17

Sponsored by Shane Company! 

You may not know this about me, but jewelry holds a very sentimental place in my heart. I grew up watching my grandmother and mom put on their necklaces and rings every day, and the sentimental value of these small items never ceased to amaze. Traditions were created here – ones that I looked to bringing into my own everyday routine as I grew older and was gifted my very own heartfelt pieces. I’m thrilled to be partnering with Shane Company today to share my own #BigLittleGifts story and a few of my favorite pieces from their holiday collection. 

The Christmas before Scott and I got married is a Christmas that I’ll never forget. We spent the months leading up to the holiday prepping for our wedding, which included picking out our wedding bands. Scott had proposed earlier in the year with the most beautiful halo diamond ring, which he so carefully had chosen at our local Shane Company location, so it felt only natural to purchase our wedding bands from there as well. We went into their showroom together one chilly autumn day and left with two bands that would become heirloom pieces for our future children and grandchildren. We came home and tucked them away until our wedding day, although – I may have taken mine out of the box a few times a day shortly after – it was just too pretty to be stored away for that long! 

Well, come Christmas day – 24 days before we were set to say “I do,” I found a surprise under the tree – a maroon colored box wrapped up in a bow! I grabbed the box and started to open it, feeling a bit puzzled and with a confused look on my face (I’m sure of it!). Inside I spotted a ring – my diamond pave wedding band that we had picked out together just a few weeks back. At this point, I’m pretty sure I blurted out – “My ring! It’s my wedding band!” – looking at my parents and Scott with a smile on my face. I had a feeling, though, that something was different about this ring – and with a smirk on his face Scott confirmed that this was indeed not my ring, but instead a second band to complete my wedding set. This moment went by in a bit of a blur, but I know that I had tears coming down my face and the biggest smile that settled it – it was a big little gift that truly meant so much to me, and one that I would treasure for a lifetime.

Like my diamond pave ring, Shane Company has an array of beautiful pieces in different styles and price ranges for the holiday gift-giving season! Here I’m wearing their Mirrored Necklace in 14k Yellow Gold, which I think would make a great gift for a loved one or that special someone in your life. The design is simple and classic, and while it may be a “small” purchase, it’s sure to have a big impact on the one who is receiving it! 

Another “small” piece that I believe anyone would love to receive is this Pave-Set Diamond Band in Rose Gold. It would make the perfect the addition to a wedding set or could easily stand on its own! This one is very similar to my two bands, both of which sit on either side of my wedding band! 

I would love to hear your own story of your beloved #BigLittleGifts pieces – whether that be an heirloom ring that’s been passed down from generation to generation, or a newly gifted necklace that made such an impact on your heart. Don’t forget to check out Shane Company’s holiday collection and to stop by their showroom soon to see all of their sparkly, sentimental pieces in action. I’m sure that you’re bound to find a piece that suits your loved one’s style (and your price point) – one that I’m sure is bound to turn into a family heirloom as the years go by. Thank you so much to Shane Company for partnering with me on this post! Here’s to a season of gift giving, sparkles and the little pieces that can bring monumental love and happiness into the lives of those you love!

-Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle

AROUND OUR HOME — 16

11.30.17

With the last week of November on the books, I’ve been reflecting on a month that seemed to go by in the blink of an eye! Holiday prep, market afternoons, celebrations with family and friends — November was full of activities and people we love — what more could we have asked for? While I am sad to see another autumn month go by (fall, come back!), I am especially excited for all the holiday cheer the new month will bring. Ready for a few peeks into our home during the month of November? Without further ado — 

— We’ve started to slowly deck the halls around our tiny home — fresh garland, boxwood wreaths and all! Next up — setting up our tree and getting the rest of our holiday decorations out from storage. I can already feel our space getting more cozy by the second! PS that West Elm pillow is my fav!

— It’s true what they say — it’s always sunny in the desert! We’ve been enjoying some much needed cooler weather around these parts and I think we all couldn’t be more grateful! Open window season is finally here, haha! PS the chair on the left is one of our favorite investment pieces we’ve purchased for our home!

— While the mirror may not be completely decorated for the holidays just yet, it’s still one of my favorite places to snap a quick photo in our home! Our DIY entryway will forever be one of my most fav areas, and one I’m actually thinking of writing a little more about. Would you be interested in learning how to design + style a DIY entryway? Let a gal know! 

I hope ya’ll are having a wonderful week! Scott and I have been resting up after a busy weekend, but we are so excited to decorate more for the holidays + watch Christmas movies! The Santa Clause is a classic, but I also really love The Holiday! What’s your favorite holiday movie? 

-Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle / Outfits

STYLE FOR THE SEASON WITH ZAPPOS X LA CANADIENNE

11.28.17

Sponsored by Zappos!

As the cooler days have slowly made their way to us here in the desert, I’ve had my heart and eyes set on a few cold weather investment pieces that could take me through this fall, winter and years to come. So when the team over at Zappos reached out about styling up a pair of La Canadienne booties, which are known for being comfortable, waterproof and made to last through the seasons year after year (bonus, they’re also super cute), I jumped at the opportunity to style up a pair that could keep me comfy and cozy – especially with those long, outdoor handmade market days we have coming our way!

While La Canadienne has so many rad styles out this season, the Donna boots in bordeaux suede were calling my name! The color is what really caught my eye, as it’s unlike anything I have in my closet currently. I also thought they would be really fun to style up or down – depending on the days activities. I’ve paired them with my favorite black skinnies, a black blouse and a bright neck scarf to bring some light near my face. I love how the bordeaux shade really pops in the light and brings some warmth to any outfit (and to my body – these beauts sure are warm)!

With market season beginning, we’re sure to have some early mornings and late evenings, so I’m stoked to bring my Donna booties along for the ride. Even though we live in the desert, it sure gets cold here during the winter – and knowing that my feet will be toasty warm makes me feel that much better about going out in 30 to 40 degree weather (that’s chilly, ya’ll!). What about you? What fall and winter activities do you have planned that a warm and comfortable pair of booties would make that much better? I hear La Canadienne booties make a great Christmas gifts, especially for all my friends in those real cold weather states! Here’s to a cozy and comfortable season, friends!

– Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle / Travel

DIY CAR COFFEE CRATE WITH ESURANCE

11.22.17

The holiday market season is here and Scott and I are gearing up for the busiest weeks of the year for our small business! With these local markets, pop-up shops and in-store events, we’re often faced with early mornings and long days (those of which we’re incredibly grateful for, of course) and because of them coffee is an absolute must. So when the rad folks over at Esurance challenged us to add a little style and functionality to our second home (meet Eleanor!), we knew that our #madeitmine project had to be focused on our beloved iced coffee that we tote around everywhere we go.

This car coffee crate was an easy DIY that Scott whipped up within an hour and has already proven itself worthy of the space in our second home – it truly saved the day during our last handmade market! Our plan was to create a piece that could house our favorite iced coffee and the necessary fixin’s – insulated cups, straws, sweetener and cream (for guests, of course!). We also aimed to save a little money along the way this market season by being able to bring our own iced coffee along with us instead of having to buy one every time we’re in need of a little pick-me-up. Ready to learn how to make your own? Keep on reading!

Materials:

– Three 16” x 6” pieces of wood

– Two 3” x 16” pieces of wood

– 30 tiny nails

– One .5” x 16” dowel

– Hammer

– Pencil

– Wood glue

– Sanding block

– Tape measure

– Hacksaw (not pictured)

– Drill (not pictured)

How-To:

1. Measure and mark your desired crate shape and dowel location.

2. Use the hacksaw to cut the wood to size (use excess wood as crate dividers).

3. Use the drill to make holes for the dowel in the two of the three 16” x 6” pieces of wood.

4. Use wood glue and nails to secure all sides, dividers and dowel.

5. Finish up by using the sanding block to smooth everything out.

And now our home away from home is officially ready to hit the road! Here’s a little peek into what the back of our car can look like on any given market day! I tend to take the smaller items, and Scott puts all of the larger pieces into our old pick-up truck. The blanket is actually something we often use as a display on our handmade wooden ladders, but it can also double as a cozy place to sit and enjoy a little coffee while taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the day – perfect combo if you ask me!

This would be the perfect project for anyone looking to save a bit of money, time, hassle and add some personalization (and caffeine) to your own holiday commutes – whether that be a trip to your own local handmade market, or to grandmother’s house you go! Let us know if you’ll be making your own #madeitmine DIY, and don’t forget to share the finished product with us using the hashtag! Scott and I had so much fun creating this project and hope ya’ll love it too!

This post was created in partnership with Esurance!

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Lifestyle / Outfits / Travel

FINDING BALANCE IN A BUSY SEASON WITH ATHLETA

11.21.17

The busy months of November and December have this way of sneaking up on me every year, and every year I say the same thing — I need a little bit more balance in my life during this bustling season. So what am I going to do this year to combat those busy time blues and keep the inspiration flowing? Get outside, of course! i’m thrilled to be partnering with the rad folks over at Athleta to share more about how their amazing brand inspires and empowers me to get out and be the best I can be — all the while rocking the coziest and comfiest pieces from the brand’s outerwear line! 

During the in-between moments of this busy season of life, Scott and I like to take a short drive outside of town and find ourselves among the cactus, the red rocks and the trickling water that ebbs and flows as the days go by. On this particular day, we headed out early to catch the sunrise in this beautiful place! As the month has gone by, it’s also started to get quite chilly in the desert. Knowing that we would be out and about during one of the coldest hours of the day, I bundled up in my new Grandview Shell Coat, Heat Gen Flannel and Stellar Tights — all of which helped to keep me cozy along our morning adventure. 

The Heat Gen Flannel was super toasty during our wind-filled morning! I also love the feminine cut and length that makes it easy to style with a pair of tights — like the Stellar Tights that I can’t seem to get enough of lately (they have pockets, ya’ll). 

The Grandview Shell Coat is sure to be the show stopper of my closet this season, as it’s lightweight and has PrimaLoft® Eco insulation. It can also be layered up or down depending on the temps of the day, and BONUS — the tightly woven fabric not only brings stretch to the coat, but also adds a bit of style and texture.

With a mission to ignite a community of active, healthy, confident women and girls, Athleta is a brand that I am sure thankful to be partnering with this holiday season (and during the week of thanks and gratitude, nonetheless)! Knowing how powerful the bond between women can be, Athleta also stands for women and girls empowering each other to realize their limitless potential — which is something that I couldn’t appreciate and stand for more myself. We’re all in this together, ladies, so let’s make a splash as a team, a group, a sisterhood — if you will!

And now, it’s you turn to share — what do you do to combat the busy blues? How do you take a step toward a more balance life? For me, getting outside is key — but a nice, tall glass of iced coffee, an evening on the couch or even a night out with friends will do the trick! Life is all about balance, my friends — so here’s to a more balanced season with lots of adventures in tow! 

This post was created in partnership with Athleta! 

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