Sweet Ellie Jane

Winter weddings

2011-01-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

Although I am not a huge fan of cold weather. I think there would be a lot of options for a cozy winter wedding. I can envision a cozy lodge or mansion for a venue with a fireplace, a coffee bar, white fur shawl, bright red lipstick, charcoal & light greys with black & white & bits of bright red. How gorgeous!!! Here are a few beautiful winter weddings & some others that are my current favs from greenweddingshoes.com Enjoy your snow day(if it's snowy where you are!)

I know I know...

2011-01-02T10:04:00.000-08:00

I have been MIA for quite some time now! I blame it on busy-ness & laziness:( but I have SO missed you all & I'm gonna try to be better! I hope everyone had a fabulous holiday & wish everyone a Happy New Year!!!! Ryan & I had a busy Thanksgiving & pre-Christmas celebration in Hilton Head & Atlanta. We traveled to Hilton Head for Thanksgiving to meet up with my family & Ryan's family, who traveled all the way from Boston! All to meet my fam for the 1st time! It was for the most part relaxing & fun,especially one spontaneous night filled with smores & wine around a firepit at one of our fav spots Palmetto Bluff Inn. Luckily they all loved each other. Just a little stressful being the people pleaser I am to make sure everyone is happy & noones feelings get hurt...Luckily, Ryan's parents rock & are very easy to please!! I also have not yet introduced you all to Ruby Marie...my new sweet little neice who is the cutest & best baby ever!!! Pre-Christmas was in Atlanta with my family. We all stayed in pjs to bake cut-out cookies & drink wine. My little sisters Leslie & Lizzy are the coolest kids I know & are so much fun to hang out with! Christmas weekend was spent just Ryan & I and the pup at home in Nashville. We drank plenty of champagne, hung out in pjs, rented a boatload of movies & of course opened gifts. It was so nice to not go ANYWHERE and just relax!! So now you're pretty much caught up. This year is already filling up with summer weddings, trips, and photo shoots for Ryan! I will be sure to update you all on all that! Happy 2011!!

berry boutenniers

2010-08-30T16:25:00.000-07:00

listen I'm not saying I'm going to start my own biz making these suckers(never know), but well these were my 1st ones...I think they're pretty rad!...I am putting together a wedding for a wonderful bride who seems to have all the faith in the world in me;) and I have been having so much fun planning her wedding! This is the 1st wedding I have done since I started working for I DO Weddings in August, where I'm doing pretty much EVERYTHING!! planning, coordinating, flowers, bartending(yep!),hair/ makeup, shopping for the bride, put up, tear down, and all sorts of crafts!! Sounds like alot, but truly it has been such a joy!!!! I have loved working with all the brides I have had the priviledge of working with and this wedding has been a blast! The colors for this lovely fall, martha stewart(ish) farm wedding are burgundy & clover green. I wanted to do something simple for the groom/groomsmen to wear that did not have flowers...something more natural looking. What do you think?!

Mexican made easy

2010-08-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of Mexican food...I crave it & almost feel I could eat it everyday, except for the fact I like a little variety in my menu. On the weekends I watch cooking shows as soon as I wake up for an hour or so, then I am ready to cook up some yummy weekend dinners. As obsessed as I am with cooking shows & looking up recipes, I often just think of things that sound like a delicious combination then write it down, and sometimes never even make again, even if it's out of this world, because like I said I like alot of variety. I thought of this recipe on a Sunday afternoon, (which is usually when I get my inspiration). I think because I'm so in-love with fall & fall meals that instead of an actual casserole, I just wanted to come up with an easy one-pot meal, that was delicious & well of course Mexican. So here's what I threw together, and let me tell you(it must be REALLY good for me to do the following) I ate it everyday for lunch that week! I'm calling it Mexican MoJo, because I did have a dish I already named this, but this one blows it out of the water!! I do not get to exact with my recipes since I'm usually trying to get creative & use what we have without buying too many additional ingredients...

p.s. this makes a freaking ton...so it is plenty for a family of 4 maybe more

1 box Rice a Roni spanish rice
1 fresh jalapeno diced
1 fresh red pepper diced
1/4 cup red onion diced
1 can corn drained
1 can black beans drained & rinsed
5 cubes of frozen cilantro(I get these at Trader Joes, but you can use fresh)
crumbled goat cheese for garnish

cook spanish rice according to package directions(it will have you add the canned tomatoes to the mix)when the rice is almost done cooking add the rest of the ingredients into the skillet, unless you like your veggies softer then you can add in beginning.
*for Ryan I added 1 cooked boneless skinless chicken breast seasoned with pepper after I portioned ours out into bowls. Use how ever much or little you want of ea.ingredient(except for rice & tomatoes)...Enjoy!!!

Wedding goodness

2010-08-20T13:41:00.000-07:00

So I have been super busy this summer with weddings....hair, makeup, planning, coordinating, flower arrangments, bouquets, and well anything wedding related!! I have had so much fun!! I haven't been updating you all on these weddings as much as I'd like to...but last weekend I did some prettyness on the bride,Sarah Bell's hair(and her bridesmaids) with a little braid to jazz it up a bit. Last night I met with the beautiful Lauren to do a practice run for her wedding hair. More to come after Sept 4 when I tackle 2 weddings in one day..brides & bridesmaids hair/makeup...Whew!!!

p.s. sorry for the poor pic quality...had my camera on the wrong setting...bummer!!

Go bananas!

2010-08-20T13:27:00.001-07:00

So before we left for Cape Cod...I stopped by Marble Slab to surprise my man with some ice cream...and I always know when I go there, there will be nothing for me that has little or no dairy...unless I ordered uh toppings...no good...BUT when I spotted a dark chocolate covered banana with chopped nuts on top I thought about it for weeks, before I finally made Ryan go with me one night after dinner to grab one...yummy!!!! It was huge & yes I managed to eat every bite!!! That's what happens when you let a craving go for too long!!!

Sweet Nothings....

2010-08-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

While on one of my favorite blogs here...I was pleased to see she had listed the little things in life she loves...I thought I would copy her & do the same;) Sometimes I find myself looking at all the little bummers of my day instead of focusing on the ...things that make me smile...What makes you smile?? Let's start a trend!!

1.notes in my lunch bag from my boyfriend
2.waking up on Saturday mornings to make a yummy breakfast & coffee
3.that 1st sip of a Starbucks black iced tea
4.hearing old music such as Billy Holiday
5.when I see someone helping someone else out...even the smallest act of kindness
6.the smell of angel food cake cupcakes baking in the oven
7.a freshly cleaned house, with the smell of candles burning
8.crisp air from open windows in the evening
9.the sound of leaves swishing on the pavement
10.fresh flowers

*image of a bakery on Harvard Campus;)

Round 2 for baby...

2010-08-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

While were on the topic of pictures...my gorgeous sis who's preganant with baby #2..(eh hem..a girl I might add;) requested we come to Indiana for a maternity photo shoot, we both jumped at the chance... me to pretend to be an art director;) & Ryan to actually take the pics. My animated nephew also joined in on some of the pics as well as my hilarious brother-in-law. Ryan spent 3 days taking pics of them... so he got quite a variety but here are some of my favs!

photo shoot friday

2010-08-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

So I basically forced Ryan to do a photo shoot, to kill time before our usual Friday night movie night. I have had all these ideas for pictures running thru my head & a bundle of vintage dresses begging to come out and play. It was so fun to play dress up & also help my man build his portfolio! Here's a few clips;)

Dream Couch

2010-08-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

Ok so I've wanted this couch for about 4.5 years now! Every trip into Restoration Hardware brings me face to face with this beauty here, and I have to resist the urge to pull out my one credit card I never use to purchase it...It has the deepest cushions so you can comfortably lay side by side with your man or pup;)...I could imagine sinking into on Saturday mornings with a coffee and a throw & once I want a change with the main room furniture, I will retire it to a movie room in the basement.....ahhh until then I'll dream...

Hurry up Fall!

2010-08-08T17:33:00.001-07:00

I do not by any means want to wish the summer away...because I know in the middle of winter...I will wish it were warm again. However, I absoloutely love fall...love the clothes, soups, the sound of the leaves swishing around, coffee drinks, chilly nights, and cozy sweaters. I decided to get a head start and purchase a few fall pieces. Forever 21 is usually my go to when I wanna get a bunch of cute stuff for very little...I realize there's a chance I may be getting to old to shop at Forever 21, but frankly I don't care. Some things are worth splurging on & some are not...I choose to not splurge on clothes unless it's something I'm sure I'll get a lot of use of!! So here's some of the items on their way to my home & some I'm still thinking about...I'm loving all the black/white for fall!!

Back from the Cape...

2010-07-25T19:12:00.000-07:00

Back from the long awaited vaca. to Cape Cod/Boston...It's funny how you wait so long for a trip/event...planning your days there, outfits, anticipating seeing friends & family..then it comes & goes so quickly. 11 days in a lovely location, I could have had a new adventure everyday there with all the nooks of the Cape.A gorgeous & blast of a beach wedding for Ryan's sister & new hub, Dave. Danced the night away, ate delicious food,& drank wine....all on a breezy summer Cape night...ahhhh Not much relaxation day of wedding though... I tackled 9 updos/styles for the wedding...once wedding was over we had a chance to dig into to the shops,eats,beaches and spend quality time with Ryan's family. Once back in Boston we enjoyed long train rides into the city to see my good friends Beau & Jen for some more touristy activities. Such a fun adventure, but also so nice to be back in the swing of things in Nashville.

All the lovely photography provided Ryan Clement
(the bride & groom,a day at the beach,coming into Boston by boat

If I went to Harvard...

2010-07-04T08:52:00.001-07:00

pictures from Fashion Gone Rogue in Elle UK July 2010

Hello my lovelies! Happy 4th to everyone! What are your plans? My man & I are grillin' dogs & stuffed jalapenos along with some homemade fries...Yummy! Nothin' fancy. Since we are finally headed to the wonderful Cape Cod in just a few short days, we are hanging in to clean & pack. I don't know about you,but I like to come home after a getaway to a fresh house. I will have to send some pics your way from our trip upon returning. After lounging at the beach in my big black floppy hat drinking martinis(this is what I envision, when in reality it will probably be me in a summer dress drinking a corona;), we will be heading back in to Boston for a Red Sox game & some whale watching with my best bud Jen & her husband, Beau.We are also going to try to venture to Harvard just to check it out, maybe pop into some cool New England coffee shops/bars...I keep imaginging they have these cool little spots on campus,with that in mind...I thought I'd include some pics of what I'm dreaming I would wear if I went to Harvard ...these smarty pants, sexy, fall clothes. Very much looking forward to some time off to hang with Ryan's fam.& clear my overloaded mind.

Lovely Updo

2010-05-27T18:34:00.000-07:00

Check out the blonde's lovely updo from Redken show...

Yummy sweater

2010-05-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

photo from Tommy Ton

Can I please crawl into this yummy sweater on a fall day & read the Sunday paper, while drinking my 1/2 coffee, 1/2 almond milk, with a scoop of raw sugar....just before I slip on some leggings(unlike this pantless young lady;)& flats and walk to the local bookstore for a day of flipping thru cookbooks & design magazines...Can I?

Sink In

2010-05-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

Oh how I want to sink into this tub after a long day at the beach. I'd turn that cute little fan on to cool down & open the window for some fresh air & the smell of fresh flowers just outside the window...ahhh

Tough as nails

2010-05-23T12:26:00.001-07:00

I would feel like a total BA in any one of these pairs!

Holy Hot Hair

2010-05-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

Meet Kate Lanphear...I just stumpled upon her on the JAK&JIL blog! click here If I were feeling frisky..I may just hop on over to the salon this wk. for this hot style! In so much love with it! Then I picture when I don't wanna style it & it's mad curly...I just would scream!!! Still nice thought for maybe a day when I decide I wanna be higher maintenance;)
ps also LOVING her style...

It's all in black & white

2010-05-20T18:53:00.001-07:00

love the clean, bold look of this modern bathroom from Elle Decor magazine!

Boudoir

2010-05-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

I'm gonna go out on a limb here & tell you a little bit about a super fun boudoir photo shoot my talented friend Allie did for some of my besties & I...Frilly lingerie, a fabulous MAC makeup artist, Sarah Jackson, and a character for the day, myself a pin-up girl...here's a sample...and if your interested get in touch with the lovely Allie Bryan's boudoir/wedding photography click here

Have you seen my bathroom?

2010-05-20T17:46:00.000-07:00

Yes well me & the man redid this b.room some time ago..but I haven't showed you yet! Let me give you a visual...Vanity-used to be a dark sage green/& light sage green with cabinet doors in the middle left on, Mirror-Used to be a harsh brass color, Towel bar- used to be that white porcelain material, Lighting fix.-Used to be a brass strip with vanity light bulbs Walls-Used to be peach/sage thick stripes...We spray painted mirror & hand painted vanity in a spray paint/semi-gloss in the same color of "coffee". We removed the doors of the vanity to give it a more spa like/modern feel(or so I think)..The walls were painted a gorgeous color called "Canvas", which has a tint of green in it...which I love!Lighting fixtures/towel bar changed by Ry's handy dad to a more contemporary, brushed nickel.. I would show you the shower curtain which I also adore from Crate & Barrel, a white background with leaves & branches in a dark &limish green..however it now has a little splash of red hair color on it..woops!! No one will ever know;)

Happy day for Holly

2010-05-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

I was happy to spend Holly's beautiful wedding day with her, while making her & her bridesmaids even more gorgeous! Here's how the hair went down...love to Holly & Josh!

Have you noticed...

2010-05-20T17:28:00.000-07:00

how I won't post anything for a while, then go on a blog binge? I get a burst of creativity & pass it on to you my sweets. So I apologize for the lack of daily posts, but it's just how my mind rolls...lalala

The great flood

2010-05-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

I am sorry I am just now talking about the most recent devastating events in our great city. Sunday morning after a full day & night of raining, we left the house to check out our neighborhood, having no idea what were about to discover. Fortunately we live on top of a very high hill, but at the bottom of this hill, homes were covered in water. It was such a sad situation. The rain had come so fast some could not get out in time. People were literally driving boats down our street to rescue people in their homes. Although many have lost their homes,& for some their lives, alot of good things came from this flood. Every morning while driving to work after the flood had cleared the streets, I saw neighbors helping each other,volunteers everywhere, and stands set up with water & food that people had donated. The mess is starting to clear, and people are rebuilding the insides of their homes. I feel so fortunate to live in a great city where others help each other, not just for a day or two, but until the job is done.

Sweet Ava

2010-05-20T16:49:00.000-07:00

Last wk.end Ryan & I ventured over to our friends Rachel/Wes' for a rainy hangout. We sat outside shielded from the rain, talking about everything under the sun,shot hoops, grilled out, & finished the evening by walking to a local fireworks show. Their daughter Ava is sweet as can be & although very shy, Ryan managed to squeeze in some awesome shots of her! I love this one..because it makes me feel like a kid again..not a care in the world, just zippin' around on her little hot pink cart/bike (she alternated). I had just taught her how to make a fish face;)

Shout out

2010-05-20T16:43:00.001-07:00

Can I just say how proud I am of my man...he has stumbled upon a creative hobby of photography & absoloutely loves it!! He loves taking pics of weddings, kids, animals & just life! His photography skills are evolving everyday & he's really digging into this craft, by researching & practicing constantly! He hopes to have his own photography biz one day...and for someone who by day is used to working with numbers, I think it's lovely he has found a new love!! Here's to him!!

Can't get enough Jackson

2010-05-20T16:37:00.001-07:00

Here's a pic of my sweet nephew to brighten your day!! Taken from my talented boyfriend;)

It's not delivery it's homemade

2010-05-20T16:16:00.000-07:00

We have been making some seriously good pizzas...lately have been buying the Trader Joe's dough and loading it with toppings...sometimes cooking it on the grill or in the oven. Which is super scrumptious..but the other day it was nasty & rainy out(pretty much the norm here in Nash. lately:( so I thought why not bake up a fresh, homemade pizza & rent a couple flicks on a Sunday afternoon...sounds like a brilliant idea to me!! I got the crust recipe from Emeril click here I added olive oil(instead of marinara) with fresh minced garlic,cracked black pepper, fresh basil, roma tomatoes, & fresh mozzarella(ok & yes I mostly do not eat dairy), but for this is was SO worth it, and for some reason did not hurt my tum;) I baked it at 450 for 15 min. I can't even describe how delicious it was!!Even though it takes 1.5 hrs for the dough to rise....It was worth the wait!!!

Smooth Move

2010-05-20T16:11:00.000-07:00

Our fruit was about a couple days from not being quite so fresh anymore ...so we threw it all in the blender for a delicious, just woke up, still have sleep in your eyes, really wish you could still be in bed, but have to go to work drink;) Strawberries, Kiwi, Bananas, orange/pineapple juice/frozen blueberries & a couple bananas...Yum!

Hot Potato!

2010-04-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

I have become a freaking master at making twice baked potatoes...eh hem...if I do say so myself...I use different things to stuff them..depending on what we have on hand...sometimes a little raw horse radish(for a kick), some diced red onions,vegan butter,salt & pepper..just depends what we have!! Last night I made salmon with a simple seasoning, steamed haricot verts, & these delicious bundles of joy!!! So savory!! This time I did goat cheese in mine(um I've been using it in EVERYTHING!!), vegan butter, fresh chives(from my lovely clients garden..thank you very much!!), sea salt & cracked black pepper...They were sooo delicious!! Considering Ryan is not a vegan/vegetarian...I did swiss cheese in his & regular butter...
To make: 1.rub Idaho potatoes with Vegetable oil...place on foil lined cookie sheet cook at 400 for 30 minutes
2.slice about a 1/4 in. off the top, scoop out inside enough to leave a solid shell
3.mash top of potato with insides of potato into a bowl on top of whatever ingredients you'd like!! (This way if you're using cheese the cheese gets all melty while you are mashing;)It can still be a little chunky..doesn't have to be like mashed potatoes;)
4.fill shell of potato back up with the toppings & cook for another 30 min.
5.take out of oven, serve & once cool...savor every yummy bite!!!

You're so fake...

2010-04-18T14:43:00.001-07:00

I may be a bit obsessed with Whole Foods "Mock chicken salad"...served by itself or on soft wheat bread with crunchy lettuce & tomato...It is fantastic!!! Vegan/Vegetarian or not...I don't care...It's super good!! I have every cpl wks..been stopping for lunch there by myself & digging in to this deliciousness...Ryan says he's afraid I'm going to leave him for it!!! Now go try it!!!;)

Hoooot Dog!!

2010-04-13T19:14:00.000-07:00

Yep that's right...for my bday...wanted to go to a local hot dog spot..called "The Dog" and to the movies...I'm a simple gal...but don't you worry eh hem...it's a VEGGIE dog..Oh and they were kind enough to give me an oreo wrapped in funnel cake dipped in powder sugar...why thank you very much!

Nuts for Coconuts

2010-04-11T16:26:00.000-07:00

Holy Crap...I just ate dinner, my tummy is full, yet I want these now!!!! Delicious!!!! I wanna make these & have them with a Mai Tai...Bring it!!!

Coconut Shrimp with Maui Mustard Sauce
Yield: Makes 10 to 12 appetizer servings

Ingredients
18 unpeeled, large fresh shrimp
1 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup beer
1 (7-ounce) package sweetened flaked coconut
1/2 cup fine, dry breadcrumbs (commercial)
Peanut oil
Salt
Maui Mustard Sauce
Preparation
Peel shrimp, leaving tails on. Butterfly shrimp by making a deep slit down the back of each from the large end to the tail, cutting to, but not through, inside curve of shrimp.

Stir together coconut milk, cilantro, and lime juice in a large bowl. Add shrimp, tossing gently to coat. Cover and chill 30 minutes. Drain shrimp from mixture (do not pat dry).

Whisk together flour and beer in a small bowl. Combine coconut and breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Dip shrimp into beer batter; dredge in coconut mixture, pressing onto shrimp. Place shrimp on a baking sheet; freeze 20 minutes.

Pour oil to depth of 2 inches into a Dutch oven, and heat to 350°. Cook shrimp, in batches, 2 to 3 minutes or until golden. Drain on paper towels, and sprinkle lightly with salt. Serve immediately with Maui Mustard Sauce.

Coastal Living, JULY 2004

Are you kidding me with this french toast?!! YUM!!! I would of course have to sub soy milk for the whole milk;)

Yield: Makes 4 servings

Coconut French Toast
Ingredients
1 loaf unsliced bread
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup coconut cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon butter, divided
Powdered sugar, sliced bananas, toasted coconut flakes, and maple syrup
Preparation
Cut bread into 4 (2-inch) slices. Trim crusts, and cut each piece in half diagonally.

Combine eggs and next 6 ingredients in a 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Soak bread in egg mixture.

Melt 1/2 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet or griddle. Drain two bread slices, and cook in hot butter 30 to 45 seconds on each side or until golden. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining butter and soaked bread.

Bake at 350° for 15 minutes. Serve with powdered sugar, sliced bananas, toasted coconut flakes, and maple syrup.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Yield: Makes 4 servings

A phenomenal Coconut Sorbet is "Ciao Bella". I have only seen it thus far at "Fresh Market"...run don't walk...It is A-mazing!!!

Grilled Glazed Pineapple with Coconut Sorbet
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Yield: Makes 4 servings

Ingredients
1/3 cup orange marmalade
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 pineapple
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/8 teaspoon salt
Coconut sorbet
Chopped fresh mint
Preparation
1. Whisk together orange marmalade and lime juice in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at HIGH 15 seconds.

2. Peel and core pineapple, and cut into quarters. Reserve half of pineapple for another use. Halve each of the 2 remaining quarters lengthwise into long spears. Brush with vegetable oil, and toss with marmalade mixture. Sprinkle with salt. Grill pineapple over medium-high heat (400°) for 5 to 7 minutes or until tender, turning occasionally.

3. Spoon 1 scoop coconut sorbet into each of 4 bowls. Serve with grilled pineapple slices, and sprinkle with mint.

Dina Cheney & Carolyn Jung, Coastal Living, FEBRUARY 2010

Um what?! Coconut Cupcakes!!!

Coconut Cupcakes with Coconut Cream Cheese Icing
Ingredients
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
6 large egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
3 cups cake flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup plus 3 tablespoons coconut milk, divided
1 tablespoon amaretto liqueur
Coconut-Cream Cheese Frosting
1 1/2 cups large-flake unsweetened coconut, toasted
Preparation
1. Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until fluffy and creamy. Gradually add sugar, beating until well blended. Add egg whites, 1 at a time, beating until blended after each addition. Add extracts; beat well.

2. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; add to butter mixture alternately with 1 cup coconut milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat at low speed until blended after each addition.

3. Divide batter evenly among 18 paper-lined cups of muffin pans. Bake at 350° for 20 to 23 minutes or until batter is set but centers of cupcakes still look slightly wet. (Do not overcook.) Cool in pans 10 minutes; transfer to wire racks.

4. Combine amaretto liqueur and remaining 3 tablespoons coconut milk; stir well. Spoon mixture evenly over tops of warm cupcakes, spreading with back of spoon. Cool completely.

5. Frost cupcakes with Coconut-Cream Cheese Frosting, and sprinkle with toasted coconut. Store at room temperature.

Julia Rutland, Coastal Living, APRIL 2010

I'm dreaming of a white farmhouse

2010-04-11T15:16:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been daydreaming of a big historic, farmhouse in South Carolina near the ocean... a fixer-upper, with some land, and a sweet little garden...I swear the day Ryan & I finally move there & begin house hunting...& I find this house(because I don't let up once I get an idea in my head)...I will just cry...this will be the house we have a cpl. or more pups in, some little ones to grow up in(that is if we do indeed tie the knot & then have children:)...family dinners, holidays, dinner parties with fresh ingredients from the garden...close enough to town that we can ride our bikes in & have dinner at our fav. little places, close to the intercoastal...where neighbors are not too close, but you know them & can still borrow a cup of sugar...we'll have a hammock in the back yard, a large urban kitchen with beat up white or very light woodfloors that are worn...the house is historical, modern, urban, yet lived in and cozy...where you wanna sink into the couches & drink a cold glass of tea with lemon & fresh mint....ahhhhhh...did I lose you? Are you still there?? I was suddenly transported to this house...I will have it!!!! Until then always looking for inspiration of this dream in my head...so here's a little piece of what I'm talking about...Happy Sunday;) pic from http://dressdesigndecor.blogspot.com/2010/04/country-white.html

It's our anniversary

2010-04-10T07:09:00.000-07:00

Ryan & I took a little wk.end getaway to downtown Chattanooga...You must visit!!!Only 2 hours from Nashville...this town was rockin' with green restaraunts, brewerys, tourist attractions, and you can walk everywhere!!! We stayed at the gorgeous and historic Sheraton Read Hotel...downed some local brew & chowed on some yummy Byson/Veggie burgers with sweet potato fries at "The Terminal Brewhouse"http://terminalbrewhouse.com/ After dinner we walked all over downtown checking out little shops. I noticed a alot of young people & families. It felt very safe & was very clean!! On Sunday mornin' we headed for breakfast at a local modern diner, Blue Plate,overlooking the river, where the server was sure to tell us all of the ingredients are fresh & made from local ingredients...which I just love!!http://www.theblueplate.info/site/ Ryan went crazy taking pics...so I thought I'd include a couple..Happy 2 years to us!!! Cheers to Chattanooga!! We will certainly be back!!!

Sweet Sabrina

2010-04-10T06:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I did hair for a simple yet elegant wedding in Gallatin, TN. The bride Sabrina came over to my house for a practice round before her big day. I love being part of such a monumental time in someone's life!!! There's nothing that brings me more joy in my career(s) then not only transforming someone...but just being in the room with all of the bride's closest girls while their all chatting, bonding, laughing, and crying...you can feel the nervous excitement coming off the bride as you work your magic to make her feel special and look gorgeous. I arrived at 7am...and had the girls done by 10:15...for 6 bridesmaids hair, 1 flowergirl & 1 bride hair/makeup....I think that was pretty phenomenal!! Have a lookey....;)

Leaf your thumbprint and sign your name

2010-03-23T15:59:00.000-07:00

I found this amazing idea from oncewed.com http://www.oncewed.com/13548/real-weddings/diy/paul-cassie/?currentPage=1&nggpage=2 I gave this idea to Laci(Dallas bride) as a creative idea for a way to record who was at her wedding, rather than having everyone sign a guest book!!! It turned out so amazing!!! Laci's mom had someone from her printing company sketch a cool tree then had it framed & matted but left with no glass on front. We then purchased 2 different colors of green ink pads, black fine point sharpies & framed a sign that said "leaf your thumbprint & sign your name" Here is the before & after!!!

A Texas Wedding

2010-03-23T15:40:00.000-07:00

My friends Rachel & D. & I hit the road for a 10.5 hour drive to Dallas, Tx to stand up with our friend Laci for her big day!! We all grabbed a big fat starbucks and hit the road around 3pm...plenty of tunes in tow, and gossip to catch up on..we got into Dallas about 2 am in the morning!! WHOA TIRED!!! The next few days were filled with girl fun shared with old friends and new!! I have to say we had the best bridal party ever!!! Everyone got along SO well & we laughed nonstop!!!The main job as a bridesmaid is to pamper the bride, help her with the things left undone, give your honest opinion, when she asks unless it will make her cry, and spend her last moments with her as a single lady(now the beyonce song is in my head)...It is such an honor to stand with her as she takes one of the biggest steps in her life...all of this even if it's crazy and you get no sleep & you're up late the night before at a Honkey Tonk with her maid of honor & other bridesmaids...all of this is so worth it when you see her glowing self walk down that aisle!!! Even the ones who rarely cry get choked up...That's when it all comes together!!! Happy Marriage Laci & Jessie!! so glad we could all be part of your day!!!

Jen & Sarah round 2

2010-03-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

pic from photographer Ryan Clement
So my best bud, Jennifer & I have made a pact to see ea.other pretty much every cpl months tops. She lives in Indianapolis & I in Nashville & we have been doing a really great job at this...I also color cut Jen's hair so this time schedule works out perfect for her locks too;)The wk.end after Ryan's amazing parents left she came down for a visit & brought her friend Sarah for Sarah's 2nd trip to Nashville...(see I told you it's been crazy busy!)We always (and by we I mean me) plan a ton of fun stuff to do while they're here...mostly relaxation with yummy food from some of our fav. cafes, & delicious unique restaurants such as Rosepepper Cantina(amazing mexican food). http://www.rosepepper.com/ besides eating...uh is there anything else?? We venture into our favorite little shops/boutiques to browse!!This is a pic of Jen after happy hour at my favorite little place..360 Such a simple wk.end yet so fun!!!

Relaxing booze filled weekend;)

2010-03-23T15:13:00.000-07:00

pics from photographer Ryan Clement
So it's been a crazy last cpl months!! After spending 5 days in Indiana for my stepmother's funeral...I came back to a relaxing wk.end with my boyfriends family. His mom & stepdad came in town from Boston & we had a blast!!!! Friday night we took them to an awesome restaurant called "Red Pony" in Frankin...I had never been there, but it was amazing!! Even though we had to wait an hour for a table, we didn't mind since were sipping on yummy cocktails(mine a martini with blackberry puree, called a "black rose") in the bar area of this cool, cozy little gem of a place. I had the pistachio encrussed salmon over lobster mashed potatoes...UM YUM!!!!!!http://www.redponyrestaurant.com/
On Saturday after a hike & some yummy breakfast at one of my fav. places...Bread &Co.http://www.breadandcompany.com/ I packed a lunch of some fruit/veggies, cheeses, crackers, salsa, & nuts & we headed on a little adventure!! We ventured out to a winery just outside of Nashville. It was a cool sunny day so after our wine tasting we sat inside a room over looking the vineyard with a couple fireplaces, drank wine, snacked & caught up! What a fun day!!!http://www.arringtonvineyards.com/

back in action by popular demand!

2010-03-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

So I've been out of commission lately!!!! So much has happened!!!! I'll let you in on the great the bad & the not so pretty...1st off...my stepmother passed away on 2/15. She caught a cold... & it turned into pneumonia. When my dad took her to the hospital her lungs were filled with fluid & she was put on oxygen. She was in the hospital for 3wks before she finally passed. I truly believe even the things we don't understand & are the things that seem so awful..comes some good. The good that came from it was that my dad & I have become closer & have kept in better contact with each other. It was also good to go to Indiana for 5 days to spend time with family I rarely see. And well that family includes my sweet nephew jackson...oh & his new big boy room!!

Oh Blue

2010-02-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

I love me some serene blues & greens & when you're in a funk(like I am today) they can make you feel a peace & for me I think of being near the ocean... Here's a mini showcase of all things blue & green....whether you're feeling blue or not...

nail polish opi "no room for the blues", both rooms by traditionalhome.com, votive holder www.lunabazaar.com, ring & earrings from forever21.com, bag michael khors, blue suede shoes www.asos.com, blue/green wallpaper from designyourwalls.com

Joyous Occasion in the dressing room

2010-02-09T14:40:00.000-08:00

Why oh Why did I have to try on 14 dresses at Pangea on my lunch break...only to realize most cutesy tootsy dresses you have to be an A cup & have a -14 in.waist...wow...how disappointing....I'll take a breast reduction with a side of tummy tuck pleeease.

Cloudy Day

2010-02-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

This cloudy grey dress is the sweetest little number...would love to see it with some fun ballerina flats or skinny jeans & heels & the price is pretty righteous too!
Bench Speciality Dress
$55 (35 GBP) - republic.co.uk

Sweet kix

2010-02-09T13:43:00.000-08:00

So I don't why but I cannot stop thinking about bright hi-top kicks & wondering how I can pull it off with without looking like I'm in jr.high....These are fabulous... and I'm envisioning them with a simple worn v-neck t- or one shown here from forever 21,skinny jeans...no? should I just get over the hi-top obsession?? These fun sneaks are from asos.com jeans from net-a-porter.com cute lil tank from forever 21 for a mere $3.50...holy crap!!

Where could I wear this hot little number...

2010-02-09T13:39:00.001-08:00

$62 (40 GBP) - goddiva.co.uk

Color me Happy

2010-02-09T12:15:00.000-08:00

Since I've been feeling a little down in the dumps do to my jobarooo....I have been thinking of other things I can change to perk me up...nothing too drastic just a little hair color switcharoo....I have been a blonde many a time in my life but have been red for the last 4 years...lately I have been toying with the idea of going back blonde...at least for a bit...As a hairstylist..I like to switch it up & keep things fresh!! Here's a few pics that caught my eye..blonde reflects alot of light & hides skin imperfections..but can also wash some peeps out especially if too light. With brunettes it can warm up your skin, and make eyes pop, but shows skin imperfections more & depending on how fair skinned you are...you may feel you have to really jazz up your makeup to compete with the darkness of your hair...Red is great as long as it flows with your skin tone, however high maintenance as it fades the fastest.I am drawn to the natural looking reds...copper, brown reds(think Julianne Moore).. And I love the more pale pastel blonds...Check out some blondes & reds I'm loving while I try to decide which color to be;)....hmmmmm
photos from refinery 29(red head)

Dress for Cape Cod Wedding take 3!

2010-02-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

Check out this hot little number from modcloth.com
Loving the navy for a beachy wedding...still unsure though...
would I get too sweaty in this?.. also need something to break it down in...hmmmm

Local Color

2010-02-08T13:44:00.001-08:00

This weekend was great...very relaxing...rented a few independent flicks & cozied up on the couch with my fav.movie pair...Ellie & Ryan;) My favorite was Local Color...It was a beautiful film about a young boy who loves to paint & tracks down a local famous artist to teach him how to be a better artist...They talk alot about art, love & life. It was such pleasant movie to watch. After watching it...I wanted to go back to art school & paint all day!!

Another dream dress for Cape Cod...

2010-02-08T13:33:00.000-08:00

Here's another dream dress (far left)I'd love to have for Cape Cod Wedding in July....ahhh but they only ship to addresses in Australia!!! How sweet & summery is this!!
from Refinery 29 the Lover Spring 2010 Lookbook
also on thehouseofmilkblogspot.com

Truth Is...

2010-02-08T12:49:00.000-08:00

So here's the thing blog readers;)...Truth is I have not told you everything when it comes to my current profession..true, I am a hairstylist. I have been one for 5 years & love love love doing hair/makeup. true, I am a wedding hairstylist & wedding planner since Aug. 09...this is a total dream job & when they offered me the position I felt like one of those girls in a chick flick who somehow gets a job she never even knew how to begin getting...they just said "we have a position available for a wedding planner..would you be interested in that" um have we met?!! OF COURSE!!!! so yes those 2 jobs I love with all my heart...however, neither one is full-time. Therefore, I must do something else to support myself...which is where I have to come clean on what that is...I have been working at a law office for over a year & 1/2 doing collection work & also remitting all of the payments that come in on our accounts to our clients, which are corporations...let me just say, the reason I did not mention this, is because, I detest my job. It is not fun for me to be mean to people and collect their money...to make matters worse...my boss is the most unethical man speaking down to everyone in the office, making prejudice & inappropriate comments, & flying off the handle at unpredictable moments screaming profanities & punching walls or his desk...yes that's right...I'm really letting the cat out of the bag here...but truth is I don't care. This has become extremely wearing on me..to the point where I'm like a 5 yr. old in the morning when it's time to get ready & go to work...kinda wanna throw a tantrum. I understand learning to work with different personalities & drama, but this is beyond an unhealthy work environment...All that said...I have routine break-downs about my current positon...constantly scanning craigslist for jobs, & leave the office to get a coffee or tea just to clear my head & remember who I am. That may sound very dramatic, but I am a super creative person & if I didn't have hair/weddings to vent that creativity..I would have spontaneous combustion!! The reason I started this blog was also to vent that creativity, which is why I feel I must come clean with my readers on my current situation. I desperately wish I could just do hair/weddings, but that is not enough for me financially so I'm looking for anything that will coinside with those 2 things to do & where I can feel good about it at the end of the day!!! AGHHHH!!! very frustrating!!!! I am however, excited bc I am meeting with a producer in Nashville for dinner tonight to discuss the posibility of me doing hair for music videos & tv!! My amazing & talented friend Ally G., led me to this wonderful connection...so we shall see...maybe there is a light at the end of the tunnel soon!!!

party of 1 at West Elm

2010-02-04T17:44:00.000-08:00

A couple wks ago I ventured into one of my fav. little shopping areas in Nashville & popped into West Elm. There I spotted plenty of bright modern items I wanted to purchase...but resisted the urge! When I entered the store I saw alot of bright yellow, white, & pale grey, combined with organic fabrics in a light tan. The color combination made me think of being outside surrounded by yellow flowers on a summer day! So happy,clean & bright!! I immediately wanted to decorate at least one room in our house with these colors! Here are a couple pics I took while in there...imagining I'd recreate the looks for less. I'll let you know if I get around to that...:)

Girls night in

2010-01-30T11:33:00.000-08:00

For the 1st time since Ryan & I moved in together last summer,he has never spent a night a way from me..he is off in Chattanooga on a photography trip so me & Ellie Jane are having a girl's night in...
Tonight just a Chick flick, some wine, hummus, & a delicious strawberry cupcake from my favorite bakery Bread & Co.YUM!!!I also managed to make a trip to the local goodwill with a $20 budget to see what vintage dresses I could find...after 2 hours & alot of trying on...I left spending $30 with a few new fun pieces for my wardrobe...Here is one of my favorites...A blue Ann Taylor jacket with some vintage details for a mere $8!! I also found these sweet roller skates in my dressing room & desperately wished they were in my size!!!

Soup & Sledding on a Snow day

2010-01-30T10:50:00.001-08:00

We got about 4-5 inches of snow in Nashville, which is by far the most snow I have ever seen here in 5 years...It was great at 1st, but for someone who constantly likes to be on the go...it took me a min. to figure out what to do with myself! I have made batches of popcorn with olive oil & sea salt..we have plenty of movies to watch & today Ryan, Ellie & I ventured outside for a sledding adventure in our neighborhood... afterwards coming inside for a hot bowl of my favorite soup from Trader Joe's Roasted Corn & Red Pepper, & a piece of yummy sesame Ezekiel toast....the only thing I add to it is cracked black pepper. It's nothing fancy, but simply sweet & a little spicy. It is not at all chunky, but great to dip some toast or a grill cheese into...I also thought I'd include some fun pics of the sledding...My boyfriend was not on board until we got outside & he couldn't resist flying down the hills...We used the plastic top of a storage container since we don't have a sled, which worked somewhat well. Ellie had no problem zipping all over the place playing in the snow!!!

Hair Do

2010-01-22T10:05:00.000-08:00

I am always looking for unique wedding styles for the brides & bridesmaids I am working on...I love this simple,yet complex, sleek & elegant style....may have to create this for one of my brides!

Dream dress for Cape Cod Wedding

2010-01-22T08:41:00.000-08:00

I want this dress NOW for my boyfriend's sister's wedding in Cape Cod in July!! Now I say Now!!! WAY out of my price range...gonna see if I can find something similar for a smidge cheaper;)

Denim Short Hitched Dress
$250 - coggles.com

My current favs

2010-01-22T08:13:00.000-08:00

This may change next week;) but these are my current shoe wants...I would wear the strappy heel in the summer with a flirty summer dress...the booties...I would wear with a skirt or dress in the winter with tights...They also come in black..so not sure which color I would get yet...To make these choices even more tempting...they are both under $25 each @gojane.com!!

Dreaming out loud...

2010-01-19T19:18:00.000-08:00

I wanna run around in a floral frilly dress in the yard outside this window...run thru the sprinkler in the heat...come in once you can hear the crickets outside & see the stars in the sky to grill out a fabulous summer dinner fresh from the garden then sink into this tub with vanilla candles galore lit & climb into a warm bed under a luxurious down comforter surrounded by fluffy pillows & head off into dreamland...That's what I wanna do right now...

Dear Gym

2010-01-19T18:19:00.000-08:00

Dear Gym,

Look Gym we have a love-hate relationship..When I'm there I love you & you make me feel amazing ...When I'm away from you my thoughts are pure hate, I forget all the good memories, & I dread the next time I will see you...This delicious plate of Ghirardelli choc.chip cookies...is totally on my side & would love for me to end my relationship with you & spend some time with their delicious, hot, still gooey in the middle goodness.. Love, Me

Furr-tastic

2010-01-19T08:03:00.000-08:00

So yes it's totally fake,& was a mere $27 at Target on the clearance rack... but so warm,& I feel really fancy pants when I wear it...I mean it's not for everyday wear, but just to add a little zing to your outfit!I wore this to my best friend's 30th bday party & her husband joked it looked like an animal with Goodyear tire marks on it!Ha! Thanks Beau!!...laugh all you want but I'm still gonna pull it out every once in a while when I want to feel fabulous!!!
Charles pull the car around...

Goodness Gracious Goodwill!

2010-01-18T13:02:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love Goodwill...It used to be one of my favorite places! Then as I got older I became too sophisticated to thrift shop;) every once & a while...I think I have got to hit up a goodwill for some cheap vintagy pieces to add some character to my now J.Crew & forever 21 closet(nice mix eh?) I got this dress FOREVER ago at a local Goodwill...sometimes I wear it with shirt under it(like this white button-up shown here) or without...sometimes with tights & boots sometimes just boots...depends on how I'm feeling...It is the perfect fall weather dress with the warm tweed bottom...It's still one of my favorites & has held up so well!! Which is why I plan to make a trip this weekend to check out the selection at Goodwill & see what unique items I can find &/or revamp;)Note:ridiculous look on my face

Polished

2010-01-18T12:52:00.000-08:00

I suck at painting my own nails...great at giving manis on others, just not my own...so I've been treating myself every once & a while to a whole $7 polish change at a local nail salon...It takes 20 min., it's cheap & I feel like a new woman!! Here are some of my fav. colors lately....Here's the lineup...(from left to right)passion,vodka & caviar,play till midnight,midnight in moscow,strawberry margarita,russian navy

yummy in my tummy

2010-01-18T12:05:00.000-08:00

So I have a confession to make...I have been claiming to be a "vegan" now for almost 2 years...BUT...I still eat fish(no chance I'm giving it up) & I've been dabbling in some dairy recently(woops!), so for lack of a better word for my wierd food rules...I just call myself a vegan...Anyway...as a foodie it gets tough sometimes coming up with creative menu items...so I am constantly searching for new recipes & scanning every aisle at Trader Joes like inspector gadget to make sure I don't miss a single new item;) Here's an oldie but goodie recipe I got from real simple magazine...I tend to jazz it up from time to time by adding a can of corn & some rotini pasta...Eat up!!

Ingredients
1 tablespoon plus 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, including liquid
kosher salt and pepper
1 15.5-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 15.5-ounce can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 15.5-ounce can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
3 tablespoons pine nuts, chopped
1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
crusty bread (optional)
Directions
Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the tomatoes and their liquid, 2 cups water, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper and bring to a boil. Add the chickpeas and beans and cook until heated through, about 3 minutes.
Combine the garlic, pine nuts, parsley, the remaining olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper in a small bowl.
Divide the chili among individual bowls and top with the pesto. Serve with the bread, if desired.

A bun in the oven

2010-01-18T10:23:00.000-08:00

My sis just found out she is pregnant & although she may kill me for posting the news on here...well I just can't hold it in!!! This is her 2nd time around & the pic shown is how I received the news...an adorable pic of her 1st, my sweet nephew Jackson!(I apologize for the pic quality)Congrats baby sis!!

The Nook

2010-01-17T15:54:00.000-08:00

This is my little "nook" if you will...my secluded safe haven where I can finally divulge all of my creative ideas, recipes, fashion faves, unique wedding ideas, hairstyles, and anything that catches my attention, I'd like to share.....I am a hairstylist who conveniently travels to friends & anyone I come across in need of a fun & creative hairstylist, who's not afraid to tell clients the truth about how to better care for you hair, & what will work best for their face shape, hair type, and lifestyle....I also work for a company called I do weddings as a wedding hairstylist & wedding planner....That's all I got!!! SO without further ado....Let's get this party started!

Above is my fav. little chandelier...that will be mine once I can get a minute to race to IKEA... http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20089464...I've been looking for an inexpensive antique looking chandelier for over a year now & this one is right in my price range ($39.99)...and simply adorable! I'll be sure & post pics once it's hung(by my handy boyfriend;)