My Holiday Wish List 2017

I find as I get older, I definitely aim to celebrate the seasons and holidays in less and less material ways. I love that, and I definitely prefer presence over presents, and good memories and experiences too! All that said... I love a good gift, and I do have attachments to physical items as well. I've come to accept with minimalism trending about, that I'm just more of a collector, and that's ok! I tend to get some romantic idea in my head about the perfect place to wear a dress, or the perfect spot to put a trinket, or a past-life a vintage item may have had. :)

Here's my wish list for this year!

Specific Items:

Vintage Typewriter (specifications: either black or dark(er) greens, pre-1955, no major issues)
Rifle Paper Co. Books (I own Heidi and Alice and love them!)
Janet Hill Art, Cards, and Books - this print
Pretty scrapbook items or stationery (My go-to shops are: Rifle Paper Co., Paper Source, TJMaxx, Crate Paper, Pink Paislee, Studio Calico, and Maggie Holmes.) - I love this stamp.
Oval Lockets - this oval one - or this circular one

Anything With:

Maps - this map - this map
Crescent Moons - necklace
Swans
Celestial Prints - I love this phone case from 1Canoe2!

We NEED:

A new vacuum!! HELP, any recommendations?! Looking at this one, but haven't done a ton of research yet!

What is on your holiday wish list? 

Do you have a vacuum recommendation?! Preferably one that works well with pet hair!! :) 

XO,

Alexandra

5 Gift Ideas for New Moms (or Any Mom!) // Mother's Day

Moms are the best! With Mother's Day just around the corner, I wanted to share a few gift ideas for new moms, or any mom!

These ideas are prefect for Mother's Day, when the baby's born, or for any holiday there after.

Because these moms work so hard, devote tons of time to their kiddos, it's important to show how thankful we are, and to remember that they are still their own people, and need time for themselves! Give them the gift of self care and a bit of indulgence! :)

1) At Home Pampering 

My sister asked for a home foot spa for her birthday, so KC and I got it for her and added in a few new colors of nail polish. If you saw this post, you'll know that I like to get my Essie and OPI at TJMaxx at cheaper prices. Overall this gift is fun but practical, and a great way for moms to make time for themselves, even when they are not able to leave the house! Overall this gift is pretty inexpensive! The foot spa we got at Target was just over $25 after tax, etc. Our store didn't have it in stock, but I was able to order it online and pick it up in-store less than a week later!

2) Out and About Pampering

It's great to help moms pamper themselves outside of the home too! When my sister was pregnant she started getting regular massages, which is what gave me this idea. Many women don't make the time (or money available) to take care of themselves via services. Whether it's getting manicures, massages, facials, or purchasing a gym membership, etc. This is one time that a gift card makes a great and thoughtful gift!

3) Subscription Service for Something They Love (or Need)

You guys know that I am a big fan of my Honest Bundles, I also do the A Beautiful Mess Messy Box every month. Crates, boxes, etc. are becoming so popular and so handy for things that we need and love. If the mom in your life has an interest or need that could be filled nicely with a subscription box, why not gift her a trial month, several months, or a whole year?! Talk to her husband, etc. to get a good idea of something even more practical. Maybe they want to start a diaper subscription, grocery, or something similar! There is literally a box for everything, just check out this site.

4) Personalized Family Portrait

I love personalized family portraits! They are so cute and unique! I have made a few for friends, but there are a ton online to choose from! :) This is something that the mom in your life may not purchase for herself, but would enjoy! The personalization adds a nice, thoughtful touch to your gift!

5) Mama Necklace

I'm planning to post about my wardrobe essentials and what I like to call #lazygirlfashion soon, but this bar necklace is a staple for me! I love it, and I wear it nearly every day. I have since ordered a different one (same site) for my mom, and one that says "Mama Bear" for my sister when she had Darrick. :) I won't lie, I will buy these for pretty much any occasion because they are so fun, and easy to wear with everything! Arlyne does beautiful work, and I always get my orders super quickly! She has a ton of great pre-made options, but you can also customize either gold or silver jewelry! If you are looking for something a little different, I also like this one from 31 Bits.

Don't Forget!

Of course, there is always the gift of your quality time and service! Don't forget that spending time with your mom or new parents can be the greatest gift of all! Whether it's inviting them out to a low key dinner so they can get out of the house, offering to watch the baby or their kiddos so they can get out alone, making them meals, or helping them around the house - it's always appreciated! :)

Books, Books, Books 

Ok, this is certainly more than 5 gift ideas... but this post I did a few years ago has some great book suggestions for moms! :)

Be creative with your material and immaterial gifts throughout the year! :) 

What are your plans for Mother's Day?

What type of gift do you like to give? Material? Immaterial? 

XO,

Alexandra

These options are all my own and based on gifts that I have given/would like to give. I am not being compensated for this post. Even if I was, I always share all of my thoughts with you all!

Christmasing & Powdered Sugar // 2014

Hello everyone, how was your holiday?

I am still recovering from all of the fun, busyness, and reduced amount of sleep!

In addition to sharing snippets of my Christmas, I am linking up with the creative closet ladies again today sharing A Gift I Received at Christmas. My gift is a surprise rather than one of these great hats I'm rocking.... ahem... in Target. - though I did buy both as gifts for myself in the fall and I love them dearly... :)

Here are some things that happened during 'Christmas Week' for us:

• Duchess tried really hard, yet did not succeed, in knocking down our small table-top tree.
• We stayed up late baking pies and peanut butter balls.
• Olivia put hot sauce on her Christmas turkey.
• We learned (again) to play Phase10 with my aunt, grandma, and sister.
• I got some sweet gifts both new and vintage.
• We got to see almost all of our extended family members.
• I drew a family portrait as part of our gift exchange with KC's extended family.
• Duchess got a new springy tunnel, a fun feather toy, and her favorite, a track with a ball that she can chase all by herself!
• We played games with KC's family.
• We had coffee with friends.
• Mom, Jess, Olivia, Grandma and I took our annual Christmas shopping trip and shopped until our feet were sore. We missed doing it as a larger group, but maybe next year it will be in the cards!
• Kyle gave me gifts that were a clue to a bigger surprise coming very soon.

Here's a clue he gave me:

And I will give you a second one....

Powdered Sugar 

Can you guess what it is?!?

(if you know, please don't spoil!) -I'll reveal tomorrow morning. :)

I'm so excited, that sneaky fella. ;)

Hope you all had the sweetest of Christmases!

XO,

Alexandra

The Girly Girl // Books for Every Lady on Your List // Holiday Gift Guide // 2014

The Girly Girl

She is the one in the pearls. The hopeless romantic. The beauty who's always trying a new braid in her hair, a new manicure on her fingers, a new trick with her eyeliner. She enjoys romantic old movies and the finer things in life. If she isn't dressed to the 9's she might be on her way to the mall. Her closet is a work of art, her drawer of jewelry is filled to the brim, she's got more nail polish than you could use in a lifetime. Her Instagram is a collage of black and white movie shots, her new favorite lipstick, the purse that she is coveting, and romantic quotes.

1 & 2)  Style & Beauty

Both of these books are essential for any girl who is looking to build a wardrobe and a beauty collection. Conrad covers the her basics in fashion, and where to get them, how to organize them, how to build outfits with them etc. She also touches on what to wear to interviews, on dates, dressing things up and down, as well as packing, and posing in photos. -she knows her stuff! In 'Beauty' she does the same sort of thing, but with makeup, hair, skincare, and health tips. She shares her tips on eating well, how to do your own manicure, makeup designs for all sorts of occasions. Really great for beginners and veterans as well!

3) Braids, Buns, and Twists!: Step-by-Step Tutorials for 82 Fabulous Hairstyles

You might remember my post about this book, it is a fantastic resource for someone who loves to do hair, as well as someone who is trying to be 'better' at hair (ME!). It focuses on the basics, the tools needed, and obviously gives instructions to pull off 82 new hairstyles. This book is really approachable and fun! I highly recommend it for pros and beginners!

4) Underneath It All

This is the perfect guide to lingerie of all kinds for every woman! I learned about it while we were in Seattle and have loved starting to read it! There are tips for women of every size and shape about what lingerie is best for them, in every situation and style. I cannot stress the importance of a bra that fits correctly! This would also make a lovely gift for a bride-to-be at a bachelorette party or shower!

5) Bubbly on Your Budget: Live Luxuriously with What You Have

This book was first published in 1937! It is the answer to all of our luxe girl desires on a broke girl budget... From home to love, clothes to food, and everywhere in between, this timeless advice still rings true. I repeat 1937! This book would also be a great choice for the Vintage Vixen!

6) Love Letters of Great Men and Women

For the friend who loves being in love, this book is filled with private letters from prominent people such as Charles Darwin & Jane Austen. Romance! Romance! Romance! Fella's: this would be a sweet gift for your lady!

7) Breakfast at Tiffany's

Did you know this was a book before it was a movie? I didn't for a while. This 1958 classic is good for anyone who loves the movie, Audrey, love, vintage... really anyone. Especially great for ladies who are also Lit-Lovers or Vintage Vixens!

8) Cupcakes and Cashmere: A Guide for Defining Your Style, Reinventing Your Space, and Entertaining with Ease

From the blog of the same name, a visual treat of a guide to the season's. Emily Schuman thoroughly lays out her favorite tips and activities of the season from fall wardrobe essentials to spring flea market shopping tips. She shares her favorite decorating tips, entertaining strategies, and recipes, along with specific details on things like party playlists and bookcase design. Also great for the Hostess!

9) Nails, Nails, Nails!: 25 Creative DIY Nail Art Projects

A sweet and small book for the DIY manicurist in all of us. This book includes lovely photographs along with easy-to-follow instructions on how to create exciting nail art at home. A perfect gift paired with a pretty polish! Also great for the DIY-er.

I hope that this list has given you some book ideas for your girliest friend!

Interested in more?  Check out this post to view my book recommendations for other 'types'.

Happy Gifting!

Alexandra

The DIY-er // Books for Every Lady on Your List // Holiday Gift Guide // 2014

The DIYer

This is your craftiest, most artsy friend. The one who is making her own chalkboard paint, knitting, wearing handmade earrings, and finishing a quilt (possibly all at the same time). Maybe she is more of a upcycler, you marvel at her ability to turn average scraps and run down finds into beautiful and useful pieces of decor or clothing. She always has more than one new project going. Her workspace or home might be filled with ribbon scraps, pincushions, art pens, glitter.... She probably gives homemade gifts, and they are always perfect. Her Instagram is a beautiful photography portfolio.

About the books: left to right, top to bottom.

1) A Beautiful Mess Photo Idea Book: 95 Inspiring Ideas for Photographing Your Friends, Your World, and Yourself

This book is a creative guide to photography. From the blog of the same name, ABM's founders are extremely creative and share their tips for creative memorable and beautiful photos. This book is good for photography beginners and more advanced photographers as well. This book is a part of my personal library and I reference it frequently for tips, ideas, and inspiration! - Great for anyone!

2) A Beautiful Mess Happy Handmade Home: Painting, Crafting, and Decorating a Cheerful, More Inspiring Space

ABM's second book is specifically based around decorating and DIY projects for your home. From styling tips and tricks to DIY projects to complete the look, this book is full of inspiring ideas! I also own this one... :) Also a great choice for the Homebody!

3) Magpies, Homebodies, and Nomads: A Modern Knitter's Guide to Discovering and Exploring Style

A sweet book for the knitter in your life. It is full of modern knitting designs and inspirations. It contains 25 projects to complete, ranging from small to large, and wearable to items for the home. This book is brand new and already has rave reviews. I am not a knitter... but I want to be. And if I let myself buy them without being a knitter (still...) this would be the first one I would buy! Also great for the Girly Girl with DIY skills!

4) Adorn: 25 Stylish DIY Projects

A DIY mecca for the fashionista. 25 projects that require glue and basic sewing skills. You can tell just by browsing the pages online, this book is full of clothing that turns out stylish and sophisticated. This is certainly on my own wishlist. Another great choice for the Girly Girl with DIY skills!

5) Studs & Pearls: 30 Creative Projects for Customized Fashion

Similar to adorned this book is a DIY fashionista's dream. This book contains 30 tutorials for updating your clothing and accessories. I have flipped through this one at the bookstore, it took everything I had not to leave with it! Another  book on my wishlist! Another great choice for the Girly Girl with DIY skills!

6) Furniture Makeovers: Simple Techniques for Transforming Furniture with Paint, Stains, Paper, Stencils, and More

Dumpster divers & thrifted furniture enthusiasts alike will love this book. Detailed how-to's on various methods of furniture painting, restoring, and decorating. Also including a visual glossary, this book is perfect for beginners and seasoned furniture DIYers alike! Another great choice for the Homebody!

7) Young House Love: 243 Ways to Paint, Craft, Update & Show Your Home Some Love

Another from the blog of the same name. Young House Love is a treasure trove of home DIYs from now season experts Sherry & John Petersik. Cleverly organized and including cost and work levels as well as time commitment make this book a new home owner's BFF. Though it is just as useful for the apartment dweller! Another great choice for the Homebody!

8) The Handmade Marketplace, 2nd Edition: How to Sell Your Crafts Locally, Globally, and Online

An excellent resource for someone who is interested in selling their art or crafts. A very solid book from top to bottom. Another in my personal library!

9) Creative Lettering and Beyond: Inspiring tips, techniques, and ideas for hand lettering your way to beautiful works of art

A guide to creating beautiful word art and penmanship. Great for the DIYer of many trades. Perfect for someone who loves quotes, writing letters, or anyone obsessed with chalkboard paint. (who isn't right?)

10) Instacraft: Fun and Simple Projects for Adorable Gifts, Decor, and More

A treasure trove of DIY projects for any DIY lover. This book has little projects for your home, to give as gifts, and to brighten your holidays. No advanced skills needed!

I hope that this list has given you some book ideas for your crafty friend!

Interested in more?  Check out this post to view my book recommendations for other 'types'.

Happy Gifting!

Alexandra

(More) DIY Grad Gift Ideas!

Hi everyone! It's graduation season again! My previous DIY Grad Gift post (here) has been really popular on Pinterest and so I thought I would put together another one with a recent gift that I made for my sweet cousin, Whitney! :)

She is gradating from high school, got to speak at her ceremony, and is going on to an awesome private college. I'm so proud of her! And goodness how cute is she with her boyfriend?!?!

For her gift, I wanted to combine two gifts from my previous post; to give her both dorm and backpack type essentials. So here we go!

First I found this great Cynthia Rowley laundry bag at TJMaxx. I chose a laundry bag because they are so much easier and more comfortable to carry than a laundry basket. Plus they are cute!  Then I picked the items to go inside of it. And lastly, I labeled them by number and wrote a corresponding note to explain my picks. 

The items inside:

Thank you notes, via TJMaxx

EOS (eco friendly!) lip balm, via Target

Stamps - for mailing friends at other schools and family.

Dark Chocolate Pomegranate Candy, via Target

Mini First Aid Kit, via Target (travel toiletry area)

Anastasia on DVD, Target or Walmart - for bonding with other girls on her floor.

Non-School Notebook / Journal (Eco friendly!), via TJMaxx - for tracking goals, making lists, writing quotes... all of the fun things.

Cute Post its, in various sizes, via TJMaxx

Personalized note

You can obviously tailor these items to your graduates needs, interests and based on your budget. I tried to pick things I knew I used a lot, or helped me accomplish things like keeping track of non-school goals and bonding with other girls living in my building.

Other Great Ideas:

Gift cards to local restaurants or coffee shops

A body pillow

Picture frames with photos

Slippers

Flip flops- for the shower

Anything to make a dorm room homey! (rugs, throw pillows, throw blankets, lamps...)

Of course you should ALWAYS include a gift receipt (if you know the person really well, at least let them know that the items are easily exchangeable or returnable!). You never know when someone has had their eye on the perfect laundry bag or already has Anastasia. :) 

Again, to look at the first post click here. 

What are some of your favorite graduation gifts to receive or give?

Thank You for Reading!

Alexandra