Jessica's Wedding

Miss Ogan! I was around Jessica growing up, at least our high school years. She was always a freaking blast to be around so when she asked me to style her wedding I was all over it. Plus it's just fun to catch up with girls you knew years ago. An early morning and a whole Slewwww of girls (literally, so many girls, I loved it!) later, she was off to get married on chilly, rainy Saturday but gurrrrrll, she looked good!! I did all the bridesmaids makeup and the brides makeup + hair. 

Jessica- THANK YOU for letting me part of your big day! I was so excited walking through the process with you. I love that your a fellow make-up junkie too, so fun! You looked amazing. I absolutely loved the style you chose, you'd never know we didn't do a trial! Enjoy married life lady! 

Professional Pics by Ashley Mizell Photography

{I so appreciate the behind the scenes shots! Getting to do what I love!}

Would you look at that hair?! SWOON!

The Truth

Yesterday I was chatting with a client of mine about her upcoming wedding. We were discussing schedules, details, times, ideas and everything in between. She said the funniest thing, I literally laughed out loud at her comment. "Girl, you just have it all together! You're just so on top of things. You & your life just seems so perfect. How do you do it? I really hope that someday I keep my shit together the way you do. Thank you for being awesome!"................ I didn't even know how to reply. 

 I'd love to sit here and tell you I have all my calendars in sync, my kids lunches are packed with perfectly balanced meals, I'm never late, my closet is color co-coordinated. I'd love it if I could say, my house is spotless and so is my car, my house is decorated in the perfect mix of farm house chic & pumpkins. We eat a made from scratch meal at 6:00, as a family, every night and the dishes are done immediately after... I could go on and on at the things I WISH I could say are true. 

Time for some truth: I do not have my shit together. My life is not perfect. 

Is it wrong that I was flattered that my life looks that way from the outside in?? Like, I WISH my life was perfect (eh, kinda at least, I'd go for the pumpkins and clean kitchen). Funny how everything has a different perspective depending on which side of the glass you're standing on.

Another truth: I love how imperfect my life is. It's not the life for everyone.

If you're a clean freak, you can't ride in my car. If you're a person who's always 10 minutes early, you're going to hate me because unless it's a style, I'm usually a solid 7-16 minutes behind schedule (sorry husband, he falls in the early category). If you can't handle the fact that I may dress up for dinner but put on sweats for the movie afterwards, we can't be friends (I mean we can but I'll be in comfy sweatpants while you hate your life in jeans, don't worry, I'll share my sweats with you). My life is CHAOS and I only have one little person to tote around (hooooww do people have more than one kid?! Kuddo's super moms)! Sometimes, I don't have time to shower, sometimes my kid wears the same socks 2 days in a row and sometimes my husband is left to dry off with a wash rag after showering because I forgot to switch over the towels. My schedule is overly full because I can never say no. I never want to disappoint, I never want to let anyone down. Sometimes we eat cereal for dinner, sometimes I forget to get bread for my kids lunches so I have to text my neighbors! My life is not perfect, sometimes my life is really hard & sometimes it's really easy (praise the lord for those days). But this is the life I have been working towards, this is the life I am thankful for. This is the life I want. Even with all it's imperfections. 

The point of this post is that even though you may think someone's life is perfect and find yourself comparing, wishing for someone else's life; don't. Love your life, love who you are and what you do. No one's life is perfect & if they tell you it is, they are full of shit. 

Feeling Festive

How was your weekend? Everyone always asks on Monday's, don't they? The standard response is "Good! How was yours?" - am I right?? Normally conversation moves on from there. This morning a co-worker asked me how my weekend was and I said "Festive! I'm ready for the holidays". This sparked more of a conversation about what I did and recommendations for his family! I love sharing fun places and sharing ideas for busy families that fall into the same yearly rut of wanting to do things but then don't.

A girlfriend of mine and I decided we wanted to do something fun Saturday so we loaded up our kiddo's and headed to Cider Hill. This just happens to be the place that Scott and I got married so I enjoy visiting. They have a pumpkin patch, duck feeding, swing sets, hay ride & yummy snacks! Our girls loved it and so did we! We got the chance to just hang out and let the girls run. Their cider slushies (for just a $1.00 a piece - woop!) were SO good! They also had pumpkin donuts (fresh and warm-what dreams are made of), bbq options, apple crisp and other foods that all looked really good! We took a ride on the hay wagon out to the pumpkin patch, ate our donuts, drank our slushes and of course had to snap a few pics with this adorable setup they had! 

The fun continued into Sunday with more girlfriend time! I haven't been able to make it to a Holiday Mart (crazy, I know!). Finally, Sunday I was able to go check it out! I loved everything about it! Defiantly put me in the holiday mood! Over 200 vendors and TONS of cute stuff. I've already made plans to attend another similar event in November (9th-12th), located at the OP convention center; KC Holiday Boutique. Send the date to your lady friends and make a date! 

How do you Pumpkin Patch?

I heart fall and all the fun things that come with it; smells, foods, adventures, fashion, decor..... all of it! 

One of the things I look most forward to each year is the pumpkin patch!! It's one of the few days my family is ALL together (forcefully? Possibly but whateves). Each year we like to try new pumpkin patches, just because, no special reason. We have close friends (like some of our all time favorite people) that live out in Lees Summit and my girlfriend is working part time at a ranch; they also have a pumpkin patch. So she tagged along with us; an honorary Clev for the day. Faulkners Ranch was nothing short of amazing! One of my favorite patches that we've been to so far! Tons of activities including; hay rides, corn shooting, train ride, corn pit, horse rides, goat farm & so much more! The corn pit was probably bry's favorite. My favorite was the FOOD! Holy delish! Not your typical pumpkin patch food, these were actual meal options (well kind of anyway - no walking tacos haha!). Piggy Mac was what the boys got - macaroni and cheese topped with pulled pork - YUMMMM! I had a Pumpkin donut sundae; its exactly what it sounds like, so dang good! Plus, their pumpkins and mums were gorgeous; they even had some funky gords, I always like those for decor! The place was just all around fantastic! If you're looking for a patch to visit; go check this one out!  

They also have space for special events; be sure keep this place on your radar country brides! It's beautiful! 

I do.

Friday the 13th, we celebrated 5 years married. Let me tell you something about marriage, it's basically nothing like you thought it would be. Some days, its better. Other days, well, other days it's just really hard. Thankfully in my married life so far we've had a lot more of the moments where you say "damn, I'm blessed"  rather than the moments where you're secretly plotting each other's death, thinking a Mr. & Mrs. Smith style shoot out might be the way to go... ha! 

I get the pleasure of talking with brides all through the moments leading up to getting married. They all ask, how long have you been married? Was it love at first sight? (ha! Just replaying the first time I met Scott. I'll get to that). Are you always happy? Is marriage the best thing ever? 

I always just laugh and some what sarcastically say yes. The truth is, every single day I am thankful and every single day, I am happy. That doesn't mean that at some point in the day I thought about sending him to sofa city for the night or burning all of his socks. That is reality though. If someone were to tell me that they're never irritated, mad, frustrated with their spouse -I'd be running away because their pants are about to catch fire. 

Scott and I were both managers at a large retail store and we had it out one afternoon about an event I was running. He was trying to tell me no, ha. Guess who one that one?? About a year later, we decided to stop hating each other & he asked me out on a lunch date  I proceeded to ask him super personal questions, no time for BS & he answered them - the rest is history. 

On October 13th 2012, the rainiest day we'd seen in 3 months, we said I do. I have no idea what the future holds, no one does. All I know is, I will continue to thank God for bringing my scotty and his boys into my life & I will continue to be the "okay" wife I am, because let's face it, I'm not perfect ;)   

outfit: Jcpenny dress, kendra scott accessories, open toed shoes from Buckle (purchased 2 years ago - staples!). 

Dinner: Gas light grill - totally recommend it! Romantic atmosphere, live jazz music, delish food and a nice patio for toasting -no matter what you're celebrating! 

September Favs!

mmmmm - It's almost fall!! Some mornings have been toying with my emotions and have been super chilly. I'm LOVING it! However, it's made me emotionally unstable because by the time the afternoon rolls around; im sweating and crankin' up the AC. Still though, my house is smelling like fall and starting to look like fall - all things that make me happy! September has brought LOTS of celebrating! For one, it's my birthday month (thanks for all the love y'all!). I had a wonderful time celebrating with friends & fam. For two, it's my husbands last month at his job of 15 years so we had fun celebrating that! In just a week it will be my bonus mom's 40th birthday so we'll be partyin' down for that (stay tuned, it's 80's and 90's theme, style will of course have to be on point for that!). Below are just a few of my "I'm pretending it's fall even though it's 89 degrees out, favorites". 

1. Fall Scented Candles: This could be the best part of fall.... (retract that, not sweating and sweater weather is the best part but this comes in at a close 2nd!). I freaking love a good, strong, long lasting smelly candle. I get so bummed when I buy a candle and for one it doesn't burn the same scent as it smelt when I stuck my nose it & for two it only smells up the 6inches of the candles circumference - boo. So I've figured out where to buy candles. Candle Queen Candle in Leavenworth makes her own soy blend of candle and they smell. soo. good. They also last a long time and will smell up your entire house! I'm currently burning Butterscotch delight - yum! The other place is Bath and Body works, now I will NOT spend $24.95 on their candles, they have $10 sales waaaayy to often to be spending that kind of monies; however, I will drop $50 on 5 candles and not feel bad about it. This season I have already picked up Flannel, Caramel Pumpkin Swirl and Pumpkin Cupcake.

2. Statement Sleeves: Currently LOVING this trend. I don't know about you but I look forward to shirts with sleeves and when they have some personality, it's even better. When I find puff sleeve or bell sleeve items that are a normal cut (I say this will love, I just can't do crop style top, if you can I secretly hate you anyway - enter winky face- xoxox). I have found a couple SUPER fun tops, with puff sleeves. The White with black stripes is from Franchesca's ($34.99), I paired with a floppy hat; made for the perfect winery outfit! Also, gotta share this steal of a deal I picked up from Franchesca's; $9.00, cactus print and has flouncy sleeves! Swoon! I'll spend a little more on things that I can easily dress up or dress down. I feel like statement sleeves are versatile must-have's this season! 

3. Fenty Beauty Foundation: I plan to do a video review on this so I wont' say too much so I don't over dose you in info but make the purchase. It's as good as they say it is. I'm color 170 and it's a perfect match! 

4. Dark Lips: I'm all about a fun colored lip. Now when I say fun I do not mean greens and blue and yellows - I can not pull that off (shout out to those who can tho- get it guurrrll or guy, whatevs!). I'm talking the rich plums (featured on right), darker nudes, blue undertoned red - eeekk! I love them all! My go to Red right now is from Urban Decay: Rock Steady Vice Liquid Lipstick. A little pricier than my normal buy but once you find a red that is matte, vibrant color, no orange undertone; you stick with it. I get asked all the time "how do your lines always seem so crisp with no bleed"? - LINE YOUR LIPS. Use lip liner; even if you don't use a red liner, use something close to it. Sephora has liners for $6, I always have a nude liner on hand. PRIMER - use a lip primer, the elf brand works just fine for me, just make sure you smudge it in good. 

5. Chili: I don't talk much about recipes.... Let's get one thing on the table; I don't pretend to be good at cooking, nor do I pretend to do it all the time. I hit the husband jackpot; he cooks and he cleans! Lawdy, I am blessed. However, when fall comes around, I spend a little more time in the kitchen. One of my FAVORITE go-to fall meals is White Bean Chicken Chili. There are SO many variations of this chili & I've never had one I didn't like....I'll share my recipe below. 

serves 8-10.... Crock pot (4-6 hours on low) or stove in large pot.    4 cans great northern beans, 2 cans pinto beans, 2 cans kidney beans, 1 can of white hominy (all beans drained), 1 can of green chilies,  2 cups of chicken broth & a chopped up onion (optional). Let that all simmer. I pull chicken off a rotisserie chicken and throw that in but you can also throw in 2 chicken breasts to cook with it all (8 hours in crock pot on low). Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions & fritos (hubs personal fav).

Emma Wedding

Ahhh-- it's been a couple weeks since I've written-- sorrryyy -- it's been a BUSY couple of weeks and I have some REALLY pretty faces to share with you this week! 

First up, is the gorgeous Emma! I got up at 3am to leave by 4, to start styling at 5am! Lucky for me Emma's wedding party was so lively and hilarious from the get go! Plus they made a coffee run, I was pretty thankful for that! haha! 

Emma, thank you so much for letting me be a part of your big day! I had SO much, it was well worth the early morning! I hope you had the wedding of your dreams. You made such a stunning bride! 

Here's a few snaps I was able to get of all the styles the I did that day (missing a couple - wah) + a few pro pics from the amazing Nicole Renee Photography

Ethan & Brooklyn - Engaged

These two people are near and dear to my heart. Ethan is my cousin and he is marrying the love of his life this coming May. Ethan and I have grown up together (obvs, we're fam!), there's 3 years in between us. His sister, Liv, has been a built in best friend since the get go. Our family is odd (HA, I say that like we're the only weird family) in that we can literally go MONTHS without seeing each other and pick up right where we left off. We never skip a beat. Like most families, we've endured some hard times but we've also had A LOT of FUN times. I know without a doubt this wedding is going to be amazing. I was asked to style both this engagement session and the wedding -- I am THRILLED. My little red head gets to be a flower girl too - she's puuuumped! 

Brooklyn - thank you for choosing me. Thank you for trusting me. You are going to make such a gorgeous bride. I simply can not wait. So happy the festivities have officially kicked off! Starting with this engagement session! Photos by Jen Kalmm Photography.

Shannan - Wedding

This pretty lady got married on a beautiful, rainy day! She held it together and I was able to share my "rainy wedding day" wisdom, as it flat TSUNAMI-ED on my wedding day; at the end of the day you're married to your favorite guy and you probably have a strong enough buzz to not care about every little detail the way you do now, at 6:00am - haha! She agreed, laughed and poured a mimosa! Haha!! ALL of her bridesmaids and herself just looked STUNNING. I ran 55 minutes ahead of schedule too so they had plenty of time to dodge down pours (had to add this little detail as running that far ahead with a group this big is rare - so go me!! lol) 

Shannan - You were a gorgeous Bride & an absolute delight to work with!!! Thank you for choosing me to help with your special day!! xoxox!

((Not pictured is the lovely mother of the bride, who looked so pretty too!))

This for That: Numba....??

I know I use the excuse "life happens" a little too often, I'm working on it. However LIFE does happen; things that you love get put to the side when you are overwhelmed/ LIFE is happening. Basically that's where this segment got to and I apologize now. I am trying so super hard to stay better on top of it! With that being said... Setting Spray: this for that time!

For me and my cliental, setting spray is a STAPLE. I have always used Urban Decay All Nighter, every so often I would pick up a new one and be super disappointed in how it worked. This past June I saw over 40 faces, plus mine daily. I went through 2 bottles of the normal size setting spray, which is okay except I realized how money that was! Now you know, I'm all about a bargain and saving $$ where I can but ONLY if it's quality, only if it's truly comparable to the higher end option. Ladies, I have found a setting spray that IS comparable quality, cheaper, and is at TARGET! The stars have aligned - haha! I tried SEVERAL (all on my face, never a client, don't worry I use my friends & my own face for guinea pig's!) Maybelline Master Fix by Face Studio; it's $9.99 can be found at Target or Walmart or walgreens and keeps your face on all. day. long. It doesn't add any oil, my face tends to be a little more oily this time of year and it didn't make it a slick. It also keeps my contour from falling into fine lines. Below are some pics of me in the morning before work and then me at the end of the day after work (just a quick car selfie) all in the same light; natural, using this spray - no touch ups were done ((and no filters so you can see results better!))

Morning, before heading off to work : Lashes by iLashKC

Afternoon, after an 8 hour work day.

July & August Favs!

It was a HOT July; not sure why I expected anything different. I have lived here all my life and things get sweaty; literally. I took the month of July off from weddings to just have some time with family and friends on the weekends. I have still had styles going on during the week that have kept me busy and I'm ready to get back to it but the time off has been really enjoyable! We have spent time at the lake, the creek, time with the in-laws, pool days, brunchin' - it's been a fun summer! Now school is nearing because it's AUGUST already, sorry the favs are comin' at you in a 2 month segment this round! August brought vacay in florida, school starting for my little (let me grab a tissue real quick, I'm not ready!!) and getting into a routine... Here's some of my favvv things! PS- I realize these aren't the most ARTSY pics buutt they're real life. So there's that at least ;) 

1. Sway bikini tops: These tops are SO flattering. I've got a little bit of a mom bod (stretch marks and tummy fluff - hate if you want but you won't kill my vibe), I rock it, I'm not ashamed. I still get in a bikini, I still go to the pool/lake and get my tan on but I won't do it in a skimpy bikini; tasteful is key! I haven't loved this years swim suit trend; swim suits with sleeves, really??? Who wants that kind of tan line!? Not I. I searched high and low for a couple new tops this year. Ordering online would have been easier, yes, but I can't do it. My body type + my lack of boobs = awkward swim top fittings. I found these 3 tops all at local places that I don't think about much; Kohls (Hawaiian) & Macys (Black- strapless is sold out but these are similar!) JCPenny (turquoise and pink with sweetheart line)! I'm also a bit of a tan line freak, so most of the time I want strapless tops! Or at least the ability to go strapless which all of these had! yay!  Plus they were all under $20 a piece-- Score!!! 

2. Fair Week: I grew up going to the fair. Every year, it was something I looked forward to. We always went as a family, listened to music, saw the animals, rode some rides and ATE! Fair food is the best! The pound(s)-no shame- gained were totally worth it, not even mad. Bry now looks forward to this week the same as I do. We usually go to the WYCO fair too but we were out of town this year so the LV fair is where we got our fix! It was a fun filled 3 nights of fair full of fun food and friends!

3. City Market Dates: I looove our city market. It's such a fun place to gather up some fresh veggies and fruit, try new food, get some local wild flowers & support local businesses! Plus it's family friendly, so you really cant go wrong in however you decide to enjoy it! :) 

4. Liquid eye liner: I haven't worn this stuff in nearly a year -- eye lash extensions - holllaaa! However, I use it nearly 100% of the time when I style. I found this stuff at Target and it's amazing... the best lines, the easiest lines, application is smooth, dries quickly, it's a mature black color and it's $3. Go buy one, you can never go wrong with having this as a staple in your makeup bag! you're welcome! 

5. Travel: New Smyrna Beach, Flordia: I completely recommend vacationing/traveling. It's good for the soul! Just a week ago I was sitting beach side and I LOVED IT! So did my little girl. This part of Florida is SO cute, not overly touristy, the ocean is literally RIGHT. THERE and fresh seafood, paired with amazing rum runners & a couple of fun ice cream places always makes for a perfect combo! We love everything about the beach and can't wait to go back next year- we're thinking of incorporating Disney World too. Orlando is only 50 min drive, so why not!? 

6. Purses: I'm ready for fall. I wasn't totally ready before Florida because I didn't wanna get in the mind set of over-sized sweaters & boots but now that I'm home, I'm ready! Bring on everything fall!! Including classic black hand bags! I realize you can carry these all through the year, that's what's so great about them. However, I prefer to carry more fun/ bright colors through spring/summer. While in FL we popped in the Michael Kors store and I just couldn't resist this beauty! It's versatile in that you can carry as a cross body or as a handbag, black in color with the super cute gold accents and it's roomy! Plus has a one year warranty with MK so you can't beat that! 

Goals & Rewards

Let's talk weight, for like half a second. I have always struggled with weight, I yoyo. Because I love food. I love trying new foods, I love meeting friends for food, I love sweets, I love treating myself and my little to ice cream dates.... This past February my hubs started Paleo. He made it clear that it'd be a lot easier on him if I would stop bringing home ice cream and chips & salsa, it'd be easier if I joined him, not plotted against him. The plotting wasn't on purpose but if crap is in the house it's too tempting, I get that. So I jumped on the paleo train and I am SO pleased with myself. By no means have I given up everything that I love but instead of having mac and cheese & spaghetti every week, I've cut those down to cheat meals. It's all about balance. A life with no tacos, is no life at all. I have lost 22lbs. I know it doesn't sound like much, I know it's no life changing amount but for me, it feels that way. I have never stuck to dieting. It's like that word made me want to eat french silk pie for dinner. Last year I didn't diet, I did zumba which I loved (shout out to Kelly at Free State Fitness, shes a fab instructor) but, it took up a lot of time. It was something that once I fell out of the habit of going, was too hard to get back into. I lost the weight but the holidays came and so did my bad eating habits and I gained it all back. This year, I decided it would have to be a lifestyle change, if I was going to bitch about my weight every other day, I needed to do something about it! So I have! I work out, kind of? We go on bike rides, we do yoga, we go on hikes, we do zumba at home, we have dance parties {the we I am referring to is me & my kids or me and my hubs - its now family/friend time too} and I do 25 squats & 25 crunches each day. For me, this is working! With that being said, I have also set goals for myself complete with rewards (because duh, the rewards are the best part & honestly rewards make me work harder). So here's what I did...

5lbs = Mint Chocolate chip ice cream cone

10lbs= a new outfit & Jose Peppers

15lbs= 5 new outfits

20lbs= Extentions

I used the money I saved on not eating out for lunch/dinner to reward myself. Also, eveytime I wanted to cheat and didn't, I put a single dollar bill in an envelope. I haven't planned out my next set of goals/rewards but I will be doing that right after I write this! Honestly, I don't plan to lose much more, maybe 10-15lbs but keeping it off will be my challenge anyway. Since I have hit 20lbs I have my extensions on order and they should be here in the next week - I am SO FREAKING EXCITED! I'm sharing this because I have been asked a couple times what I'm doing/how Im doing it. I wanted to share that I'm not doing anything super hard, nothing super fancy just all real food diet, no fast food (I miss you dairy queen), no processed food (no more cereal for dinner- wahhh). I also wanted to share because your weight loss journey is nothing more than your own. You can't compare yourself to what success others are having. You can't beat yourself up for having sour cream on your chipotle because damn it, you love sour cream. Take it one day at a time, each day is new, each day is a challenge. And know this: no matter the number, you are beautiful! 

Love and good vibes to ya! Emily

The essence outfit

I posted on my Facebook about this outfit & decided I'd share the details after getting so much love (thanks y'all!). Have you ever seen something in a store and just thought, this is me. Normally it's on a sign or a saying on a coffee mug but when I saw this romper I thought, this is me! I tried it on, sent it to a couple girlfriends saying this romper is me, like this is the essence of me. Similar to how Samantha from Sex and the City felt about that ring, I'm sure! Haha. I just loved it. So naturally I bought it and wore it at my hubs dealer meeting. We went to The Chateau on the Lake for 3 days to celebrate Rangers 50th anniversary. I found it at my go to place; TJ Maxx but I've seen similar styles else where. I parried it with twisted knot flat sandals and a pair of Sugar Fix by Bauble Bar (target) fringy earrings. I've got my summer glow going so I didn't got too heavy on my makeup, light eyes, pink lip, and a little heavier on the highlight! Hair I wanted to keep simple so I did the half top knot and straightened it. I felt so comfortable yet snazzy at the same time! 

It's SO HOT - Hair

Are you melting? I'm melting.... I hate being hot. I hate sweating. It doesn't help that I sweat like a freakin' man haha. Naturally curly hair, in this heat means it's basically a fro. So I wear it up, A LOT! This style was shared on my FB as something I should try & I thought it was cute. So I gave it a go and sure enough - adorbs. Super easy too! Run a brush through your hair, flip your hair over. Start a french braid, instead of going over, go under. Braid till you're at your ears, flip back over and pull it all up into a messy bun. Easy style and gives you a little somethin' extra instead of just a plain ole' messy bun! Plus, it's up, your cool & cute!  Oh & I'm taking full advantage of my summer glow and lashes - I'm make-up less; other than filling in my brows! :) 

June Favs

Sweet summa time! June is a crazzzyyy month around my house. For one, I have a wedding if not 2-3 weddings every weekend in June, plus engagement styles, mini sessions with Kelley and whatever else pops up! It's also birthday month for the hubs, so there was celebrating to be done, with fathers day right behind it - again with the celebrating! Trying to squeeze in family outings, swim lessons for Bry, friend time, oh and be focused 40+ hours a week at my regular j-o-b &&& work on my tan; wooof. It get's to be a lot! I take the month of July off from weddings. So I am looking forward to a couple free weekends; not that I don't LOVE weddings, just don't love July weddings as much ;) obvious reasons: its HOOOOTTTT. Here's a few things I crushin hard on this month! 

Floating koozies: I can't help it! They're SO cute! I found flamingo ones at Five Below; um they were 3 for $3 so don't go spending a small fortune on these babies. They were such a fun gift to give and I ended up with one at the end of the night (sorry Sarah! haha she's mine now). I found pineapple one's at my local TJ Maxx, again pretty reasonable; $4 for 2! I'm slightly obsessed, pool or not, they're too fun not to! 

Easy gift wrapping: I'm not the worlds best wrapper. I give it the ole college try but I just don't think I can put it on the resume as something I'm super good at. However, creative wrapping is something I can claim! These boxes are PERFECT for the "mediocre" wrapper, like my self. They're cute, they're current, they're cheap ($2.99-$5.99) and they're reusable!! Put some gold tissue paper in there and you're good to! 

Fogo De Chao: Hands down one of the best places we have eaten and girl, I have eaten at a lot of places. what? I love food. You get the cool, plaza vibe, a fancier place and a unique dining experience. The way it works: you can chow down on their salad bar that is filled with different yummies but I don't recommend filling up there; you're about to be served some of the best meat of your life! Grab your coaster and turn it to green; meats from top sirloin, prime rib, garlic chicken, lamb, ribs will be comin' at you! Turn your coaster to red to put a hold on the food and chow down. Flip it to green as many times as you please. Go on your birthday (we went for Scott's birthday both this year and last) you get a free desert of your choice! 

Litter Sale Time: The only things that come close to this feeling is the $7.99 hair spray sale and the $10.99 mascara sale! Beauty Brands is the place to be if you're needing to stock up on shampoo and conditioner! Some of my $13.99 favs include: Blowpro voluminous shampoo, curly sexy hair and the Hempz body wash (smells SO good)!! Go get cha some; love me a good sale! 

Channeling My Inner Elsa : This for That

I was snapping these pictures last night and the entire time I was singing the Frozen song "Let It Go". I kept thinking (and giggling) to myself "I am so clever, conceal, concealer, my blog topic......Conceal, don't feel, don't let them know, well now they knooowww. Let it go, let it go.....". This what it's like to be in my head. Welcome! haha! Seriously though. Concealers. Let's chat. 
 

I had always used the Clinique line smoother concealer because it was hypo allergenic and growing up my skin was super sensitive. I ventured to the Bye Bye under eye when I was pregnant because my skin would randomly freak out - thanks hormones, you're so much fun. Bye Bye under eye from IT cosmetics is the Shiiiiizzz. It works wonderfully, beyond full coverage and does't require much product so you'll have your tube for a while! However, you have to seriously blend this stuff or you'll end up with lines. Then when the Tarte introduced Shape Tape; of course it was a must have! It's a definitely a long wear, full coverage product. Great for covering blemishes and brightening those under eye circles but I don't love the formula, just feels a little cakey if I haven't recently exfoliated (could just be my face - I have that problem sometimes - LOL!) I recommend long strokes with this, not dotting (like when you apply it to you face). These 3 are great but come with a heftier price tag. From left to right: $18.50 ; $24 ; $25

When I started styling I QUICKLY realized I was going to have to find some dupe products because I am no kardashian and I just couldn't keep up.... ha! Get it? I'm giggling to myself. I looked to youtube to see what else some of my fav make-up gurus were using for drug store finds. Kelly Strack recommended Master Fix concealer by Maybelline. I gave it a shot and love it! It's very comparable to the bye bye under eye, a little more creamy though. Only thing is I wish there were more color options, only 5 to chose from. Another girl I follow on IG and simply adore is Just Brandi; you may know her as Momma Laughlin. She used the age rewind Eraser and it was flawless on her skin so I gave it a try too! Honestly, it's my every day concealer now. Colors are based on skin tones (warm, honey, fair) instead of shades (light, medium, dark), creamy, easily blendable and covers redness & dark circles really well. Wanna know the best thing about these two? Well, maybe not the best but certainly a plus... They both can be found at TARGET! ;) From left to right: $7.94 ; $6.49  

Jordin's Wedding

Weddings are usually not stressful for me. I'm usually realllyy excited. But when you leave for the venue at 7:45 and don't arrive till 9:30 and your drive time was estimated at 50 minutes. You start to stress out and sweat. That was my Saturday between the storms Friday night causing some delays that morning to carnivals closing down roads to the venue shutting down the bridge........ gah! We made it though and had plenty of time for all the pretty faces!! Best part: the Bride wasn't nearly as stressed out as I was! haha! Again with the super chill brides, my clients are the best!! 

Jordin- You looked amazing. Everything about the wedding was so pretty! You were so laid back through the whole thing. I'm not going to lie your now husband, taking over the blue tooth speaker then texting you things to match the songs was hilarious! I hope you enjoy every second of your honeymoon!! XOX

The Bride: a pretty nude eye, bright pink lip with gloss over and a subtle pink glow! 

Bridesmaid 1: Navy and copper combo on her eye = I was in love! 

Bridesmaid 2: We started super light and gradually added more color. Little by little we landed here. So pretty!

Momma of the Bride: She was so happy when we finished up, she was in tears. That makes everything worth it and makes me feel soooo good!! You're gorgeous lady!

bridesmaid 3: Golds on golds! She looked amazing. 

Bridesmaid 3: a mirror pic because as I was leaving I realized I missed a couple faces. I'm the worst. But doesn't she look so glamorous?! Loving the lashes!

Annnnd I'm still missing 3 other faces. They were off helping with this and that and being excellent bridesmaids/bridal attendants and mother of the groom. They looked great too!! Yay for June weddings & meeting new people! :)

Shopping Local in Greenwood, MO

Shopping Local & supporting small businesses; something I always love to do! I love finding new boutiques that have unique options. I love finding little treasures. Things that people ask about, conversation starters & different things from the typical hobby lobby find (I am so NOT hating on hobby lobby by any means; love me some HB)! Just mean it’s always nice to have “one of kind” things too! I have a close girlfriend that lives in Lees Summit and we’re always saying how we need to hit up the shops downtown. Last week the shops in Greenwood, MO were hosting a Sip and Shop so we decided to make a night of it. We had dinner and a margarita then set out to adventure through the stores. A friend of mine from high school owns her own little dream shop in down town Greenwood & I was excited to check it out! The Porch Swing did not disappoint! Everything was adorable! So many shabby chic, hand crafted, hand painted, creative items! If you’re ever in the area, you must stop in and say hi!

A few of our finds are below! 

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THIS for THAT - #5

Round Five...... 

I am loving the cold shoulder and off the shoulder trend this season! The ties, ruffles, bell sleeves; adorable detailing!  I had been on the hunt for a pretty spring colored off the shoulder top. I was thinking a lavender or a mint green; colors that don't always make it into my closet. Even a gingham or floral one would of been just fine. What I didn't want, was a clingy, knit fabric (target failed me here). I wanted a more crisp, sturdy fabric loook. However, the ones I was finding that didn't fit like a crop top (power to the people that can pull these off) were $40+ - yeeessshh, that price tag tho!  From left to right: $59.50 - $128.00 - $84.00

A few weeks ago Bry was at her Nan & Pa's house so I had some time to shop without a toddler and no husband hurrying me along - what married, mom dreams are made of. I found a couple tops I really liked but they either felt loose across the top, were too short, were too tight across the top - blah! I was getting in that sour place of shopping where nothing looked good and then I popped into old faithful - TJ maxx... I found this simple pink top and it fit perfectly!! They are sold out of my exact one but this one is a VERY close 2nd. At only $14.99, I had extra to buy my little some flip flops, a couple picture frames and super fun outdoor lantern! 

Crystal's Wedding

I have gotten super lucky with the clients I have worked with over the past 2 years. I have met some of the sweetest ladies and most chill brides, ever. I talk with other stylist's and hear "horror" stories about their experiences and I just feel so.... lucky?! Blessed?! Grateful?! Yes. All of those. This past weekend was Crystals wedding & again, super laid back Bride. Although there was nothing to freak out about I feel like brides can always find something (I know I did-haha)! They also got married where my hubs and I tied the knot, so it was cool to see the changes/updates that had been made around the Orchard!  Here's a few snaps of some gorgeous styles{Hair and make-up}.

Maid of Honor: When she pulled out her phone she said "so I'm going to be a pain in the ass" Bring it on I say! I LOVED doing this swoop braid across the back and bringing everything to the side. She has SUPER thick hair so this style worked really well for her! Just so elegant and pretty!

Something about the smokey eye with dark hair, gets me every time. I just dig the combo! It looked great on her too! Plus we went with a darker berry lip. Of course, I have no pictures of her with lips on because I suck.

Bridesmaid: Such a sweet lady! Look at those curls! I couldn't get over them!! They were the perfect touchable curl. Pre make-up application ;)

The one thing the bride wanted was braids of some sort for everyone, so we did a double braid for this bridesmaid. Her curls were so perfect I had to leave part of it down!!

Her eyes just POP! Very subtle pink and gold tons, just very natural with a hint of Glam!

Flower girl: She had the personality to match that hair color for sure. This little girl was a fire cracker - I loved it!! So Cute! Also, the head band - swoon! I love a pretty head piece!!

Junior Bridesmaid: Such a pretty girl!! She was so helpful all day long and kept her hands out of her curls for the entire day. We braided her bangs back and the bride made the clips - so fun!

The Bride: Ah, such a pretty bride!!! That hair though, gah I was so jealous. She doesn't wear make-up like, ever. So having make-up on was an adjustment and so was having lashes but at the end of the day she said it was so worth it to have it all done. She looked stunning!

Again, the pretty hair piece just really adds to much detail!! Especially since she dedcided against a veil, this just really topped off her style!

Thank you again Crystal for having me part of your day! It was a pleasure to meet everyone!! I hope you enjoyed every moment!! - Emily