New Year's Resolution

I am a very high strung person, who stresses over everything! My new years resolution is to relax and actually enjoy life. We spend so much time working, cleaning the house, running errands, etc that sometimes people just needed to be reminded to stop and smell the fresh air.

Top five ways I am going to achieve this goal:

1. Work less - any of those in finance know how the hours are but life is too short to spend so much time at the office.

2. Enjoy the fresh air more - I would like to take more walks with my dog and husband, go for more runs outside, sit on the beach, read a book on the deck and anything that allows me to get some fresh air.

3. Eat healthier - I am normally a pretty good eater during the week. My number one weakness is french fries! I rarely buy french fries to eat at home and if I do they are sweet potato. I struggle though when I am out to eat. I need to have more will power to order healthier meals, like salmon, salads (no ranch dressing), etc.

4. Complain less - If I really took a look at my life, I do not have much to complain about, but I tend to do it anyway. Instead of complaining, I want to appreciate what I have more.

5. More Yoga - Even though my husband swears yoga does not do much, I don't believe him. Yoga is not just about losing weight but more so about your overall self. I love feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Happy New Years!

Friday Fab - Young and Chic

Both of my siblings seems to possess the style gene that missed me! They each have very different styles that are edgy yet chic!

My sister Lauren is in college and I love her style. She is not afraid to wear a new trend or even create a trend!

My brother Eric has a style that is very unique. He is the only person I know that can wear a rosary bead and it looks fashionable. Plus, he has some pretty awesome tattoos that give him a little bit of an edge. He loves high class fashion and usually is dress very chic!



HAPPY NEW YEAR!

NYE Attire

Whether you are going to a house party or a fancy party in the city, everyone still wants to look glam for NYE.

Here are a few ideas:

CASUAL

Destination Diva Headband

Black and White Market TankLucky Sweet N Low Jeans

Max Studio Isis Peep Toe

DRESSY

Destination Diva Glitter Headband
Destination Diva Sadie Earrings


Ralph Lauren Artie Dress

Nina Edina Bootie

ThursdayPurseday - Ollie & Nic

When I was living in London last year, I fell in love with the Ollie and Nic bags!

Here are some of my favs:
http://www.ollieandnic.com/

Featured Vendor - Lovely Little Details

I met Jacin, from Lovely Little Details, on twitter and started following her posts. Lovely Little Details is a event planning and design company specializing in wedding planning, event design and much more.

The Lovely Little Details blog is amazing!! She discusses anything from her inspiration to the very unique details you can incorporate into your big day to make it PERFECT!! Recently she has posted multiple "winter loveliness" posts, which I loved!!! Just the color and uniqueness about her posts are what truly draws you to them!

Here are a few pics from her winter loveliness posts:

Q&A with Jacin:

What inspired you to start your business?

I have over 7 years of experience in event planning including weddings, corporate events, festivals, and smaller scale meetings. My love for wedding planning and design was recently rekindled when I planned my own wedding from across the country; I loved taking all the inspiration I found and turning it into reality on the big day by incorporating all of the "lovely little details". I wanted to feel this joy and passion with everything I worked on, and help others fine tune their inspiration and vision to make their dream event a reality. Too often, brides get caught up in the bustle of all the "platinum" weddings that we see online and in the media, and this can lead to some feeling that their wedding isn't good enough. This competitive spirit is something I am trying to counter by helping each client create their own event "branding" so that all guests truly feel the labor of love and personality that went in to the planning and design. No matter the budget, we can work together to create an event that is memorable and exudes personality! I find myself focusing on the tiniest of details - the romantic gardenia in the bride's hair, the textured, fluffy gowns, the scattered petals lining the aisle, the groom's intricate, detailed boutonniere, the burlap table runners, those to-die-for red Louboutin heels. The "lovely little details" may not be noticed at first, but when put together, they create a swoon-worthy event is that is personalized and memorable. Those lovely little details are what turn inspiration in to reality - and I love that.

What exactly does Lovely Little Details entail?

lovely little details is an event planning and design company specializing in (but not limited to):

*wedding planning (full, partial, and day-of packages available)
*event design

*vendor alignment and day-of scheduling
*inspiration board development
*inspiration to reality shoots
*paper design
*floral arrangements
*wedding blog development/writing

I want to help each client figure out which "lovely little details" are important to them, and why, so we can incorporate those in to their special day. I have an expansive rolodex of experienced "partner" vendors to provide each client with the option to work with proven vendors and help them take one less decision out of their planning process, if needed. By offering multiple services and partnering with the right people, my clients are able to enjoy the planning process and relax, while I manage the minutiae.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Fear is just an excuse that can often get in the way of your dreams. Life is too short to settle for your current situation because you don’t have the courage to try something new. If you fail, you're still better off than the rest because you gave it a try, and you learned something from the experience. Deep inside you may be feeling excitement and fear, but if you stand strong and pave the way, others will feed off of your enthusiasm and who knows, you might just inspire someone else to shoot for the stars! So what are you waiting for? Get up and go! No one else can duplicate YOU.

What are 3 things people don't know about you?

1. I can find 4-leaf clovers on the spot. I've been known to be running and backtrack because I saw one out of the corner of my eye :)

2. I lived in Australia after college – I moved there by myself and got a work visa and job managing events at a private school in Sydney, then traveled the east coast of Australia, stopped over in New Zealand, and visited Fiji on my way back home.

3. I have a weakness for New Jersey "everything" bagels :)

Lovely Little Details is definitely a vendor you should be following!! Thanks Jacin :)

Blog: http://www.lovelylittledetails.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SheSaidYesBlog

My 2010 in Rewind

Well my year started off with the excitement of planning my wedding. My now husband proposed in July 2009 at the Dalhousie Castle in Edinburgh, Scotland.To continue with all things wedding, my shower was amazing. Thanks everyone!

Bachelorette party was sooooo much fun (maybe too much fun)!
Then there was THE WEDDING in Punta Cana!!! AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!Then the reception back in Delaware. I love my dad!After my wedding, I started Destination Diva. I never thought I would love making jewelry and accessories so much. As summer arrived, I was looking forward to some fun in the sun.

My best friend Amy got engaged!! We had to celebrate! April 2011 wedding planned :)

Then we heading to Disney for Thanksgiving with my in-laws. So much fun!!
San Fran with the hubs two weeks later!Now with Christmas over and New Years here in a few days, I am ready to plow into 2011 with some great business ideas, my best friends wedding, traveling, family fun and my FIRST wedding anniversary. I am so lucky to have such good family and friends!

Monday Inspiration - My Dad (grab a tissue)

About 4 months ago my dad found out he had tonsil cancer. This was something I never thought would happen to my family. I was devastated. After 2 operations to remove the tonsil and lymph nodes, he began radiation. His first chemo did not turn out so well. He had to be rushed to the emergency room because he had a bad reaction to the type of chemo.

NOW 4 months later, 25 pounds less, minus facial hair, he is done all his treatments. One more operation to correct the blood circulation in his legs and he should be DONE. With all this being said, my dad has not been in the best moods. This all takes a toll on your body, plus he owns his own business so everyday he told us how much money he loses not being there. However, ALL this was necessary for him to be healthy.

He still maintains a positive attitude and a smile. I commend my mom also for being there by his side through everything, even the months of a miserable husband.

Every time I asked him what I could do for him, his response was "Give me some grandkids!"

:)

Snowed In Activities

If you are on the east coast, chances are you are snowed in or will be soon :(

Here are some fun activities to do with your family:

• Play a video game: We just showed my in-laws how to use the Wii fit. Helps you get energy and have some laughs. We may do some bowling later :)


• Eat: I am sure everyone has some extra leftovers. Today we have had a huge brunch of blintzes and french toast, leftovers for lunch, cookies for a snack and some more leftovers for dinner.


• Watch a movie: I am sure everyone either got some new DVD's, has a new Netflicks DVD that you were too busy to watch, or catch a holiday movie online. We have watched Alice in Wonderland (new one) and The Grinch (Jim Carrey one).


• Holiday Sales: Check out all the holidays sales! Even if you are snowed in, there are is a ton of online sales.


• Play in the Snow: Break out the sleds or just put some boots on and get some fresh air and have some fun. Being cooped up in the house all day can get boring, so it is nice to get some fresh air.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

My Christmas

Well once again Christmas has come and gone. I am so thanksful for such an amazing family. I am such a Christmas person that I always go a little overboard.

Here is my Christmas recap:

Christmas Eve dinner at my sister-in-laws was amazing. She is such a good cook and got a brand new kitchen! Oh and we got this massive snow shovel my in-laws ordered from Canada that may come in handy soon.

I woke up at 6:30am Christmas morning to get ready for a long day of fun, gifts, family and travel. My grumpy husband was not as thrilled to get up so early. I used to get to my parents around 6:30am but as my sister got into college and brother moved out, each year the time got later. Frankly, I got sick of getting to my parents and waiting and waiting hahah. We all opened gifts at my parents. My dad and mom agreed on not exchanging this year but he played a trick on her. He gave me extra $ and told me to buy more gifts. Since my sister is in college and brother just bought a house, they didn't have a ton of money. My mom did not even realize that she had way more gifts than anyone else, but maybe my sister. He truly apprciated her being there with him and for all the support through a hard year.

Next we headed to my grandparents, which tends to be VERY hectic. My mom has 5 brothers and sisters, all who have kids, 13 grandchildren to be exact, 3 are married, 1 boyfriend, 1 great-grandchild, one dog, and other random visitors. Oh and they live in a SMALL townhouse. It was such an amazing time though. I love catching up with everyone, esp ones that don't live around here, and doing a polyanna with all my cousins.

Then off to the beach to the in-laws. We had another AMAZING dinner. My mother-in-law is so happy she is going to Vegas to see Cher and my husband is happy to get his new tool chest!! I am so lucky!

Now it is snowning and beautiful at the beach! My life is good :)

Thursday Purseday - Clutches

Clutches are the perfect size when you are looking to bring a small purse out for the night!! Sometimes wristlets are too small and you can just fit your cell phone. What about lip gloss, compact, money, etc?? Clutches are your answer and they are so stylish :)

Thursday Purseday - Ho Ho Ho

Handbags are definitely my weakness!!! I could think about them all day :)

Here are some more of my favorites:

Holiday Designer Wish List

Everyone is allowed to wish!! I love to browse designer sites to see new trends and think about what items I would buy. My BFF used to always play a game...we would open up a magazine and pick what we would buy on each page. Really is a lot of fun :)

Fab Friday - Purple Holiday Decor

When I was in the doctors office yesterday, they had purple themed holiday decorations! I was thinking about how unique everything looked! As much as I think white lights and the normal decorations look elegant, it is always nice to see some color and unique decorations.

Here are some of my favorites:


Wreath: Pottery Barn; Tree: Target; Ornaments: Dreamstime; Stocking & Lights: The Purple Store; Jester & Glasses: Pier1

HAPPY HOLIDAY!

Featured Vendor - Simply Perfect Weddings

Sumer, from Simply Perfect Weddings, participated in the Southern Weddings Ornament Swap with me and I am so lucky to have met her. She truly is a great person!

Simply Perfect Weddings is a boutique wedding planning firm serving the Greater Pittsburgh area and surrounding counties. They provide personalized planning, coordination, and consulting services. Also, Simply Perfect Weddings specialize in complete wedding management for the modern bride who is looking for the ultimate pampering experience!

Q&A with Sumer:

1. What inspired you to start your business? Simply put, I am passionate about helping people. The long answer? I’ve always known I wanted to become an entrepreneur…my Dad instilled that in me from a very young age. Although, I didn’t always know what kind of business I’d own. I went to school for business management, with a concentration in finance. After graduating, I went on to work in the mortgage industry, followed by accounting. Neither were for me. I didn’t do the whole 9-5 cubicle thing very well. I grew bored very easily. I had planned events in college, and had really enjoyed those experiences, and after I started planning my own wedding, I decided to give event/wedding planning a try. The real push for me to get started in the wedding industry was the fact that I was quite disappointed with the level of customer service I received from various vendors (rest assured though, I ended up hiring some fabulous vendors in the end). It was at that time that I realized I wanted to do my part to change the wedding planning process. So, I got certified, got a few weddings under my belt, and then opened up shop in the fall of 2007. And the rest, as they say, is history…we’ve been going strong ever since.

2. What exactly does Simply Perfect Wedding entail? We are a full-service boutique wedding planning co. We provide a wide range of services to help brides in all aspects of the wedding planning process. Everything from complete wedding management (full-service planning from beginning to end), wedding day coordination, set-up/décor assistance, as well as hourly consulting sessions.

3. What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs? Find out what motivates you, and don’t look back! Be sure to understand the building blocks of running a business before opening up shop – write your business plan, look into tax laws, draw up a solid contract, and put an accounting/record keeping process into place. I know these tasks may seem mundane at first glance, but things like these are crucial elements to the success of owning a business. Don’t forget to DREAM BIG, and never stop learning! 



4. What are 3 things people don't know about you?

1. Frozen yogurt is my #1 guilty pleasure.
2. I am obsessed with penguins. Especially around the holidays…I could decorate my entire house with various penguin décor. I also love polar bears!
3. I hate coffee. Hot chocolate is my preferred beverage in the a.m.

http://www.simplyperfectwedding.net/
simplyperfectweddings.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/spweddings

Thank you Sumer!

Monday Inspiration - Holiday Decorating (slowly but surely)

Things have been crazy! We were in Disney for Thanksgiving, then came right back to my busy time at work, taught a class, then headed to San Fran. The hubs is still out of town, so I have been trying to decorate every chance I have some time. Can't wait to get our tree Saturday morning!!

For my Monday inspiration I thought I would share a little DIY holiday project. I was in Michael's looking for some holiday ribbon and I saw these cute berries that were $.99. I had no idea what I was going to do with them. At first I thought I could use them to hang my jewelry on at a Holiday Open House I was teaching class, but they were too flimsy. Then I had a few awesome Kate Spade vases I received as wedding presents, that were perfect. They turned out pretty nice :)

HAPPY MONDAY :)

Friday Fab - House Shopping at Ikea

My brother just bought a house! House shopping is so much fun, especially your first house.

Here are a few of my favorite things from Ikea:


Hemnes Sofa Table

Uldum Rug

Lycksele Chair

Hopen Bed

Thursday Purseday - Another Santa Request

On this thusday purseday, I thought I would continue my list for Santa. I LOVE LOVE LOVE purses and bags, so there is always a wish list. PLEASE Santa bring me one of these :)

Tory Burch "Louisa" Buckle Tote

Salvatore Ferragamo Igea Cervo Hobo
Michael Kors Tonne Tote

Featured Vendor - CupcakeMAG

Casi, from CupcakeMAG, has quickly become a new fav of mine!! Her blogs are addicting! She features anything from New York Fashion Week to featured Etsy vendors to what books you should be reading on her CupcakeMAG blog. Also, I love the fact that "cupcake" was a nickname her dad gave her! Casi also has another blog called CupcakeMAG for Littles that has "fashionable treats for chic moms and their babies." Both blogs are definitely worth checking out :)


Q&A with Casi:

What inspired you to start your business?

cupcakeMAG began two years ago showcasing New York, LA and Miami Fashion Week – it was your place for all things fashion where we would showcase exclusive designer interviews and backstage coverage. Once things got up and going cupcakeMAG really took off – we started covering not just fashion but beauty, celebrity interviews, etc. Then we realized we needed a place for Mommistastas to go – a place where we could not just cater to fashionistas but a one-stop blog for moms and their littles. That is when Sprinkles, now cupcakeMAG for Littles was born; Fashionable Treats for Chic Moms and Their Babes. Both of our blogs offer great product reviews of all the hottest must-have items, celebrity interviews and giveaways galore!

As for the inspiration - it can from a mentor, fashion editor Vivian Kelly who I previously wrote for on her site, Lyra Mag. After venturing to a few fashion weeks and covering the events I realized I needed a place of my own. It quickly took off and has grown to a great business! Hard work and passion made it go from a dream to reality. It takes a lot of dedication to make it work.

What exactly does CupcakeMAG & Sprinkles entail?
cupcakeMAG entails a lot of passion, hours, patiences and staff! I have the best group of writers around. They are fun and fabulous and work so hard to make cupcakeMAG the best! It also takes a lot of work - coming up with features, scheduling interviews with celebrities, pitching, reviewing products, etc, etc - the list goes on! Which is why you have to have passion - without it, I would have given up awhile ago but instead I made my dream become reality!

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Just go for it! Follow your passion and your heart. I really feel like you can put your mind to anything - it is all about mind over body. If you have the passion and the drive you can make anything happen. Just believe yourself and run with it. There may be so bumps in the road but in the end they are usually all worth it. Follow your dream is my motto!

What are a few things people don't know about you?

I have to sleep on my stomach. I go to the National Car Show in DC with my father every year since I was 10. My grandfather was a full blooded Native America making my father a half-blood and myself 25% Native American. I hate flying. I used to be obsessed with the tanning salon. I was a cheerleader all through high-school. I almost went to the Olympics with my Gymnastics team until they offered me drugs not to grow.

Thank you Casi!!

http://www.cupcakemag.com/
http://cupcakemag.blogspot.com/
http://cupcakemagsprinkles.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/CupcakeMag

Monday (actually Tuesday) Inspiration - Santa

Dear Santa,
I have been a very good girl this year. Can you please bring me a few of the below?

Sofft Shoes, Oxford Boots

Coach Mia Patent Maggie

Burberry Brit Raincoat
Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss

Love,
Adrienne