Lifestyle

FOR THE HOME — 03 // FAVORITE SHOPS TO BUY ART + PRINTS

05.17.17

If you take a little peek around our home, it would probably be easy to see that we love a good piece of art! Before moving into #TheApplebyHome just over a year ago, we had been collecting prints and little pieces of art for years, knowing that one day we would finally have a place all our own where we could hang and display each piece with lots of love and care. The “Work Hard & Be Nice To People” print pictured above is by the artist Anthony Burrill – a piece that I had my eyes and heart set on for quite some time. When Scott and I were in Portland this past January, we decided to splurge a bit and finally pick it up during our visit to Schoolhouse Electric (an amazing Portland based shop that carries Burrill’s prints). Today it’s one of my favorite pieces in our home and will always remind me of our time in Portland during our third wedding anniversary! Anyways, our home is filled with lots of favorite prints and originals, including this Postal Service print from their ten year reunion show and this original typewriter by Scott (did you know that he draws and paints too? he’s a man of many trades — awh!) — and in all honesty, we wouldn’t have our home any other way. 

In case you’re on the hunt for a few new pieces of art, here’s a few of my favorite shops + artists to buy art and prints from —

Do you like to decorate your home with art work, or are you more of a photo kind of gal or guy? What’s your favorite print or piece of art in your home? I’ve had major heart eyes for our Anthony Burrill print ever since bringing it home from Portland! Much like with vintage furniture and home decor, don’t forget that the hunt is part of the fun! Take the time to find the pieces that are just perfect for you — I promise the wait will truly be worth it in the end! I hope ya’ll are having a great evening, and I’ll be back soon!

-Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle

SIX TIPS FOR WORKING FROM HOME

05.15.17

For the past two+ years I’ve spent two days a week working from home (which I know is an absolute blessing – trust me!), and over the course of time I’ve found a routine that really works for me — from my early morning podcast + music jam, to my afternoon lunch break away from my computer. Knowing that many of you either work from home or might be considering the transition, I wanted to share six tips that help me to be my most productive — in hopes that they might help and inspire you to do the same! 

SIX TIPS FOR WORKING FROM HOME

1. Have a clean + uncluttered work space! // On my work-from-home days, you can usually find me in one of two places — at my desk in our office, or at our dining room table. I tend to bounce back and forth between the two areas, but I can almost always guarantee you that both spaces will be cleaned off and ready to go when my work day starts. Having a tidy space to work in sets me up for a super productive day (well, that and a big ol’ glass of iced coffee!). 

2. Get ready! // Now, I know this may not be for everyone but hear me out — getting dressed in my everyday clothes, brushing my teeth and pulling a comb through my hair does wonder for my mental state. I feel like I can focus so much better when I feel that I’m ready for anything that day may throw my way! I typically don’t wear makeup on my work-from-home days, but every once in awhile if I’m feeling tired (and need a little umph to get me going) or want to be ready to go once I’ve wrapped up work for the day, I’ll put on a pretty minimal makeup set-up first thing! Don’t think that there aren’t exceptions to the rules, however — some days you will still find me in my loungewear at noon. It’s all about balance, my friends!

3. Pick your tunes! // Music and podcasts are a huge part of my work-from-home routine! Come Monday morning I usually have a whole slew of podcasts just waiting to be listened to, so I tend to start there and then hit the music when I’m needing a little pick-me-up! And if you’re in need of a few suggestions — I love The Lively Show, At Home With… and the Breakfast For Dinner Podcast! 

4. Take a break! // When I’m feeling stuck or find my mind wandering to other things, I tell myself it’s time to take a break. I usually like to get up from my work space, grab some coffee or water, a snack and just take a few minutes to refocus my mind. I know this sounds super basic, but I swear — it works! 

5. Eat your lunch away from the computer! // Ok, I’ll admit — I’m actually pretty terrible at doing this. I usually each lunch while I’m working away, but I do know this — moving to a different spot in the house and taking five minutes to eat and read an article or look at a blog can be such a great refresher! Here’s to promising that I’ll be better about actually doing this, this summer! 

6. Keep in touch! // And last but certainly not least — don’t alienate yourself! Keep in touch with your teammates – chat, call, email! I know that some days it can feel lonely working alone (especially for those that thrive off of community and good energy), so don’t forget to keep in touch – I promise that you’ll be happier and oftentimes more productive because of it!

And there you have it — my six tips for working from home! And now it’s your turn — do you have any tips? Favorite podcasts? What’s your pre-work morning routine look like (whether you’re working from home or not)? Raise your hand if the absolute first thing you do when you wake up is make coffee — guilty as charged! I’ll be back soon, friends — hope ya’ll have a wonderful week!

-Chelsea xo

// PS both photos were taken by Ten22 Studio for our Design*Sponge feature! 

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Lifestyle

#INSTACRUSH // FEATURED IN LUXE MAGAZINE

05.13.17

I’ve got some BIG news — I’m featured in the May/June issue of Luxe Magazine (Arizona addition)! I’m absolutely honored that the sweet folks over at luxe think my photos are Insta Crush worthy, and am stoked to be featured in such a rad magazine! I’m also in REAL good company in this issue, as Found by Domestic Bliss and Mayware Ceramics are featured as well! The issue is on stands now, so please send me a snap if you see my feature out in the wild! // PS a big thank you is in order to the newly engaged Dawn of Dawn Photography for such a beautiful photo of Scott and I that they featured! Girl knows how to make us look real good! 🙂

Happy Friday, friends! I hope ya’ll have a wonderful weekend!

-Chelsea xo

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Outfits

THE SPRING GROVE

05.10.17

The beginning of May has been nothing short of marvelous! Beautiful weather (it was 65 degrees this morning – what!), lots of birthday celebrations and many plans in the works for lots of fun and travel-filled days ahead of us! May, I know you’re going to be a great one! Aside from all of that, lately I’ve been rearranging my closet and pulling out all of my spring and summer dresses from years past. This little blue embroidered number is a favorite from last year – paired with my summer hat from Cuyana + the cult classic ark bag = this year’s updated look for a warm, springy day! 

Other than rummaging through my closet, I’ve been doing a bit of pinning, perusing the Madewell website and making a list of this season’s “needed” times. On the top of my list — a jean jacket, an everyday pair of sandals (maybe these?) and a light wash pair of denim! I tend to be a slow shopper, so I have a hunch that a couple of these items may stay on my wish list for awhile, but I honestly enjoy the hunt of finding just the perfect piece to add to my wardrobe! Anyone else feel the same? What items have you had your eye on lately?

Aside from my never-ending clothes hunt, the rest of this week is set to be a busy one! Scott and I are excited to celebrate our niece’s birthday on Thursday (I hear she’s all about Trolls and Moana right now — SO sweet!), and then we’re popping up at a fun market this Saturday — the Local Trade Marketplace from 10am-3pm! If you’re local or just in the area, be sure to stop by 4634 E. Monte Vista Rd. in Phoenix and say hi + plus shop Citizen HD and so many other local creatives! It’s sure to be a super fun market, so don’t miss it, friends! 

Cuyana Summer Hat                                                                            
Madewell Shift Dress (similar!)                                                                                                               Cult Gaia’s Ark Bag                                                                                                                       Nisolo Ecuador Huarache Sandal     

How has May been treating you so far? Tonight things couldn’t feel more perfect — our bedroom window is open and the coolest breeze is streaming into our room, along with the most quiet sounds of tiny rain drops falling from the night sky. Here’s to remembering this moment forever!

-Chelsea xo

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Outfits

MY 5 SPRING WARDROBE STAPLES

05.09.17

With spring now in full swing, I thought it would be a fun to share a few key pieces that have been rocking my wardrobe lately. Like my 5 (season-less) wardrobe staples that I shared a few months back, these pieces have been true closet heroes over these past few months, and with the temps only rising — I see myself easily bringing each item into my summer wardrobe! With all that said, here are my top picks from my spring wardrobe — 

1. Overalls – The last time I wore a pair of overalls was on picture day in the 4th grade! They were brown corduroy and had a Winnie the Pooh embroidered patch on the front. Oh, those were the days — haha! In recent years, though, I’ve really been loving the overall trend and recently found the perfect pair at Madewell! I’m a short’ish gal (I’m 5’4 1/2), and was a bit worried that overalls just wouldn’t fit my frame, but this pair has just the right amount of stretch and is the perfect length! I’m now on the hunt for a second pair — hopefully either in black or white denim! 

2. Bandanas – Where do I begin? Bandanas have been a part of my style since the early day (I’m a Southwest gal through and through, ya know), but with the surge of fun prints, colors and materials that have been popping up all over — I’ve felt more drawn to them than ever. I love the pop of color and style they bring to any outfit, and have found myself with a larger collection than I would care to admit! My favorite bandanas are from Madewell, but my sweet friend Miranda of Live Free Creative Co makes and sells the most beautiful hand-dyed indigo bandanas (and I have a hunch that you’ll love them as much as I do!).

3. Straw Hats – Ya’ll know I’m a true hat gal, and while felt + wool styles are my fall and winter jams, in the spring and summertime – I’m all about that straw style! This Cuyana summer hat has been a favorite lately, but I’m also a big fan of Gigi Pip’s straw selection, along with this Madewell beauty! No matter which style you choose, though, I’m sure you’ll be loving this straw trend as much as I am!

4. Vans Slip-Ons – Classic Vans slip-ons? Count me in! I’ve been wearing this same style since I was a baby (true story), so rocking this style once again only feels natural! Plus, they’re super comfortable and add an element of cool to any outfit! 

5. Small Cross-Body Bags – Cross-body bags are my love language — it’s true! This rusty red circle bag from Madewell has been my go-lately (I love how it looks paired with jeans or a dress (+ it’s now on sale!)), but I’ve also been loving this classic Coach Saddle bag! Spring is the perfect season to swap out your heavy duty bags for a lighter, brighter version! Who am I kidding, though — I love a good, classic cross-body any time of the year! 

And there you have it! My 5 Spring Wardrobe Staples – which, again, happen to almost all be from Madewell! I promise I didn’t plan this when I first started writing this post, but truth be told — they’re just killing it right now! And I would love to hear — what are your 5 spring wardrobe staples? Do we share any of the same ones? Are you currently shopping for any spring/summer staples? 

-Chelsea xo 

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Lifestyle

ONTO THE WEEKEND — 04

05.06.17

Happy Saturday! I hope ya’ll are doing well today! Scott and I decided to high-tail it to northern Arizona for the weekend to spend some time with my folks and beat the heat that decided to hit Phoenix this week (100+ degree temps already – yikes!). It’s mighty windy up here, but we had the best stroll around downtown Cottonwood where we found the cutest Southwest inspired shop, and a rad coffee spot that had a darling walk-up window and served the tastiest iced americanos! Aside from all of that, here’s a few links from around the web that I think you’ll like —

— I got these Birks for my birthday and I’m SO excited to wear them this summer! Anyone else love their Birks as much as I do?

— My sweet friend, Nicole, is rocking this mustard hued Madewell skirt! And now I’ve got serious heart eyes for this piece and might just have to make it mine too, haha! 

— Have you heard the new Paramore tune “Hard Times” yet? It’s SO good! 

— Austin is on our shortly list of places to visit in the coming year! My rad friend, Jane, shares all the best places in Austin, and I swear that I add a new place to my “must-visit” list per her recommendations every day!

— Have you taken a peek at our shop lately? Scott has been working on and dreaming up so many new pieces! Can’t wait to share more soon, friends! 

I hope ya’ll have a wonderful rest of your weekend! Be back soon!

-Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle

JUNK IN THE TRUNK VINTAGE MARKET WITH JEEP & CHRYSLER

05.05.17

I have been given compensation for this post by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Happy Friday, friends! With all the fun festivities we had going on this week, the days seem to have gone by way too fast! It’s crazy to think that it’s already been a whole week since Scott and I attended the spring Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market! We go every year, and this year the sweet folks at Jeep and Chrysler invited us to the VIP Friday night opening where we got a sneak peek at their Ride and Drive event, along with a full evening of shopping, yummy food and delicious Mama’s Cold Brew Coffee! Oh, and we got to hear Clint and Kelly Harp from Fixer Upper speak too! Scott and I are huge fans of the show, so it was super rad to hear to their own unique story! 

Scott and I are also in the market for a new car, which has been a bit of a slow process over the past few months — so when we heard that we we’re going to have the opportunity to take a few of the new 2017 Jeep and Chrysler models out for a spin, we jumped at the opportunity! We’re looking to upgrade our current hatchback for an SUV and were so impressed with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee. Neither of us have ever owned a Jeep, but were really excited about all of the safety features, the roomy back seat and trunk (the perfect size for everything we need to haul for our markets + road trips!), and how much get-up and go this SUV had! 

It was SO windy the first day of the market, but that didn’t stop us from giving the 2017 Jeep Cherokee a good look over from the inside out! 

Along with the Cherokee, they also had a few other models on display — including the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. Both were super nice, but Scott and I found ourselves leaning more and more toward this pretty blue Jeep! The folks at Chrysler and Jeep do events like this often, so if you ever find yourself near one — you should definitely check it out! The folks there are super knowledgable and it’s an easy way to test drive their latest models!

After the Harp’s wrapped up their super inspiring talk (seriously, they’re so awesome!), the doors opened up and the shopping began! Every year Scott and I seem to find so many great pieces at Junk in the Trunk, and also have such a fun time seeing so many of our friends who are selling at the market — it’s like a big reunion every spring and fall! 

Right before last year’s spring market we had just moved into our house, which left us with a hefty list of pieces we really wanted for our new space. This year, our list was much shorter and we had such a nice time perusing each booth for exactly what we had in mind (well, or something that just seemed to speak to us — which happened too, haha)! 

We ran into our sweet friend Marci of Lucky Air Plant and were so excited to spot the recent collab she and Scott have been working on — these rad state magnets with tiny air plants affixed to each one! They were selling fast, but I heard that you can still find them online! 😉

We spent the rest of the evening shopping with friends, chowing down on some delicious food (they have all the best food trucks there) and taking in every nook and cranny of each booth! We actually ended up coming back on Sunday to take another peek at all of the vehicles on display, and pick up a few pieces that I decided I couldn’t live without! 

We may have also gotten a few waffles from the Waffle Love food trunk! The GF strawberries and cream is my favorite, while Scott is big on their churro waffle! 

We ended up taking home a vintage brass wood holder (yes, I know we don’t have fireplace – but I couldn’t help myself), along with a kilim pillow case and a few vintage brass candlestick holders! Scott and I honestly had the best time, and if you’re local to the area or live in San Diego or LA (they have markets there too), you should definitely check out the next Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market! I promise that you’ll have the best time! Anyways, I hope ya’ll have an amazing weekend, and I’ll be back real soon! 

-Chelsea xo

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Lifestyle

OH HEY THERE, 29!

05.02.17

Today I’m 29 and feeling mighty fine! Here’s to a day full of celebrations, lots of love and some of my very favorite people — it’s going to be an amazing one! 

-Chelsea xo

PS I was barely 21 when I started this little ‘ol blog of mine! Where has the time gone? xo

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Lifestyle

28 THOUGHTS FROM MY 28TH YEAR

05.01.17

Happy May, sweet friends! May marks a very special month around, as tomorrow is my 29th birthday! In the spirit of reflection and celebration, I wanted to share 28 thoughts from my 28th year! 

1. Being a home owner is the absolute best!

2.  Tell your loved ones that you love you them – often!

3. Don’t be afraid to try something new (overalls, bandanas, thai food)! 

4. Less is more — truly!

5. Even after 10+ years together, you will still have things to learn about your partner or spouse and vice versa!

6. Sitting during a concert is never a bad idea (especially when you get a birds eye view – raise your hands, short gals)!

7. Driving an hour out of the way to run through a field of lavender is alway a good idea!

8. Trust your gut — in all aspects!

10. Eating gluten free is hard, but so worth it!

11. Going to New York City by yourself may sound scary, but you’re brave and you’ll have the best time (so just do it!).

12. Binge watching Gilmore Girls is a completely acceptable way to spend a Friday evening.

13. Life is short, so do what makes you most happy!

14. Staying at the Ace Hotel is always a good idea!

15. Take care of your skin NOW — I promise, you’ll thank yourself later.

16. You too can have a green thumb (just don’t forget watering day)!

17. Listen to your body, always.

18. Don’t underestimate the power of a good iced coffee.

19. Cannon Beach is as beautiful as they say!

20. Work hard and be nice to people (Anthony Burrill said it best)! 

21. Get the Espresso Tonic at Peixoto Coffee — you won’t regret it! 

22. Don’t be afraid to be different — your differences are what make you unique. 

23. Palm Springs is as crazy and rad as they say! 

24. You’ll never regret dancing in the moonlight! 

24. Take photos with your loved ones, even if it isn’t a special occasion. 

25. Have fun with decorating your home — you can always change it later! 

26. Cherish those in your life who just get you!

27. You’re beautiful, inside and out (and don’t ever forget it).

28. In the end, all that matters is this. 

I have a hunch that 29 is going to be an extra amazing year! And if you have any wisdom of your own to share (whether you’re 28, 18, 58 or would just not care to say – haha) I would love to hear your thoughts on life and love during this season of your own life! Be back when I’m 29!

-Chelsea xo

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Outfits

MADEWELL X JOEY PASKO

04.27.17

It’s true – I’ve got ice cream on my mind thanks to the launch of #MadewellxJoeyPasko! This sweet, limited edition t-shirt was illustrated by Joey Pasko for Madewell as an ode to his favorite snack — which I can totally relate to! It’s also super soft and lightweight — perfect for those hot summer days that are on their way! Speaking of ice cream, what’s your favorite flavor? I’ve always been a mint chip kind of gal, but lately I’ve been loving the classics — vanilla, chocolate and strawberry! 

How’s everyone’s week been? I feel like the past few days have just flown on by — Scott and I have been pretty busy most evenings, but tonight we decided to just lay low at home! We’re usually not one for tv shows (I know, I know — I’m just terrible at watching a series anymore), but we started Girlboss on Netflix and I’m kind of loving it! The humor is right up my alley and I’m loving the flashbacks to the early and mid-2000’s when Teenage Dirtbag was on the radio and deciding who was going to be on your Myspace Top 8 was a serious concern, haha. I also love that there was a Strokes reference toward the beginning of the show — those guys and their loud tunes will forever have a place in my heart!

Tomorrow is set to be another busy day, but I’m really excited to celebrate one of my dearest friends and her sweet baby girl that’s due in May! There’s a chance that she might be born a Taurus, so I’ve got my fingers crossed that she arrives before the 21st (I’m big on zodiac signs and love having fellow Taurus in my life)! Either way, though, I’m just so excited to see their family grow once more and hold that darling baby girl in my arms — so soon!

Madewell Silk Bandana                                                                            
Madewell x Joey Pasko Ice Cream Graphic Tee (c/o)                                                                            Madewell 9″ High-Rise Skinny Jeans                                                                                                      Madewell Transport Satchel                                                                                                     Madewell Boardwalk Sandals     

If you haven’t checked out the Madewell X Joey Pasko collab yet, be sure to jump on over there ASAP — I’m sure these darling pieces won’t last for long! Be back soon, friends — I hope ya’ll have a great rest of your evening!

-Chelsea xo

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