hey pretty thing

Follow Hey Pretty Thing with Bloglovin'!

2013-06-17T15:07:00.001-07:00

Google Reader is disappearing on July 1, and I would love for all my readers to follow me with Bloglovin'! I've used Bloglovin' to follow my favorite bloggers since the very beginning. The interface is organized and easy to use, and I love that there are iPhone, iPad, and Android apps. Transferring your Google Reader RSS Feed to Bloglovin' is super simple too (one-step tutorial).

You can also follow Hey Pretty Thing on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Thank you so much for your readership and support!

My master's graduation!

2013-06-16T22:56:00.000-07:00

Photography by Miguel Marino

This past weekend, I graduated from the University of Washington Masters in Teaching program! All the 6am-11pm school and work days have paid off. I'm so excited for the work ahead, and that I get to educate young people in language and literacy. Every child deserves a powerful education. Whatever your dreams are, work hard, be passionate, and go better the world!

Warby Parker Class Trip - Seattle

2013-06-14T13:05:00.000-07:00

Both husband and I wear glasses, and though we're in contacts most of the time, we do love our frames. Warby Parker has awesome, affordable frames, and the best part is that when you buy a pair of glasses, they give a pair to someone in need. I think sight is my favorite of the five senses, and I can't imagine how incredible it would be to provide those with blurry vision a way to see the world's beauty. We have supported Warby Parker in the past, and when we heard they were touring the US -- on a school bus -- and headed to Seattle... we had to go!

The event was at Hillard's Brewery in Ballard. In addition to tasty beers, their space was the perfect cool and laidback spot for a chill midweek party.

The tour is called Warby Parker Class Trip, which made the teacher in me so happy -- glasses, apples, and a school bus! They drove around the US on this bus, which was custom-made to also be a mobile glasses shop. For those in Seattle, the bus will be on 2nd and Pine until July 7.

WP knows how to throw a party... free beer and sliders all night! Thanks to Hilliard's and Curb Jumper food truck.

It got a little breezy outside so husband gave me his denim jacket (aww). Then he and our friend Dave of Food Hipster 206 (who is partially in the photo above wearing Nike Spiridons) started calling me Rihanna... lolll. Full outfit post to come! (Sans denim jacket.)

Photography by Miguel Marino

(except the Rihanna ones of course, in which case, credit to Roc4Life)

Off to Hogwarts!

2013-06-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

H&M denim shirt (similar here and here)

Acne jeans (and here)

Nike Free sneakers

Photography by Miguel Marino

The last city of our European honeymoon was London, and of course the Harry Potter dork in me had to pay a visit to King's Cross Station. To be honest, I had a huge smile on my face the entire train ride there. Even though Platform 9 3/4 had a long line of tourists, the moment I gripped on to Harry's luggage cart, I felt a silly but very real hope to be whisked away to Hogwarts. (When will Floo Powder be real and put all the airlines out of business??) I started reading the Harry Potter series when I was the same age as the characters, and beyond the magic, I was captivated by J.K. Rowling's ability to create a world through words that could be sensorily experienced. I think that's why I so appreciate the arts...for its ability to transport us from our life to another...

Longwinded way to say, I love HP! Anyway, this visit to King's Cross was special for another reason. When husband and I started dating, our first trip together was to Orlando, Florida. I accompanied him on a business trip and we spent a couple days at Disney World and Harry Potter World. He had never read or watched any HP, but that didn't stop me from rapidly explaining the characters and storyline while we waited in line for butterbeer. He probably should have just thought I was crazy, but instead, he later told me, he loved how passionate I would get about everything. (He's a keeper!) So in the middle of the bustling King's Cross Station, in London, on our honeymoon, through nine European cities, I felt so blessed...as a little girl, reading HP, I would have never thought that one day I'd be halfway across the world, adventuring through life with husband.

Grecian paradise

2013-06-06T13:07:00.000-07:00

Forever 21 maxi dress (similar here, here, and here)

Céline sunglasses

Zara flats (similar here, here, and here)

Photography by Miguel Marino

I get asked about packing tips for travel, and I frequently recommend bringing a maxi dress. They're conservative to be culturally sensitive, breezy for hot and humid weather, and easy to transform from day to night. I've layered leggings underneath a knit maxi in New York for added warmth (here), worn a patterned maxi in Siem Reap to ward off mosquitos while being respectful when visiting the temple of Angkor Wat (here), and transitioned a red maxi from daytime exploration to nighttime drinks on a hotel rooftop bar in Singapore (here).

Anyway, husband posted more gorgeous pictures he took of our trip to Santorini, Greece on his photography site. Follow the rest of our European honeymoon on my Instagram!

Café Medina - Vancouver, BC

2013-06-02T17:32:00.001-07:00

Amen, Café Medina! And the pistachio rosewater latte I ordered proved that they meant business when it came to their coffee.

Started with Belgian waffles with a side of fig orange marmalade and white chocolate pistachio rosewater dipping sauces.

Tagine - two poached eggs, spicy tomato stew, sausage, sundried black olives, and cilantro.

Both our entrees came with a generous slice of grilled focaccia. Carbs! Always amazing.

Husband ordered the Cassoulet - two fried eggs on baked beans, double smoked bacon, and andouille sausage.

UPDATED Shop Pretty Thing!

2013-05-28T20:21:00.000-07:00

Finally updated Shop Pretty Thing with a bunch of shoes that I've hardly worn, if at all. I'll be continuing to add more shoes (including Lanvin and Givenchy heels) and clothing as well. Happy shopping!

Mamma Mia!

2013-05-20T10:27:00.000-07:00

Sandro cutout dress (similar here)

Céline sunglasses

Zara flats (similar here and here)

Photography by Miguel Marino

Though I bought this dress a while ago, I was finally able to wear it when we visited Santorini, Greece. This was one of our favorite destinations on our European honeymoon. We stayed in Oia on the island and the white-washed stone town built into the mountains' caves was so picturesque. Most days consisted of lounging on our deck overlooking the Aegean Sea drinking in the view and Mythos beer...ahh idyllic vacation. I posted more photos on Instagram so follow me there!

Hey Pretty Thing turns 3!

2013-05-13T22:01:00.002-07:00

J.Crew denim jacket

ASOS stripe dress as top

Carven skirt

Céline sunglasses

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag (similar)

Zara flats

Photography by Miguel Marino

We returned from our month-long European honeymoon last night so I am finally getting around to posting. These were taken when we were in Venice, Italy, which we loved because every street was so charming and picturesque. I'm still uploading our travel photos on Instagram, so follow me there!

Today, my blog turns 3! Thank you so much for reading. :)

Honeymooning

2013-04-30T12:31:00.003-07:00

Photography by Miguel Marino

Hello everyone! Thank you for all your Europe recommendations and tips. So far we have gone to Paris and Barcelona and had the best time! In this photo, we are grabbing a quick lunch while adventuring around Venice. Next, we be heading to Milan, then Athens, Santorini, Cinque Terre, Amsterdam, and London. Lots more posts coming soon. For now, you can follow our trip on my Instagram: @carolyn_ym.

Our Wedding: European honeymoon - recommendations?

2013-04-10T00:40:00.001-07:00

We finally leave for our European honeymoon next week! We would love your recommendations for what to do/see/eat/drink in Paris, Barcelona, Venice, Milan, Athens, Santorini, Cinque Terre, Amsterdam, and London. Thank you all so much in advance for taking your time to help us plan a fun trip. :)

Our Wedding: My outfit details

2013-04-08T13:21:00.000-07:00

The Dress: Lazaro LZ3207

I had visited 10+ bridal boutiques and tried on over 30 gowns before I found my wedding dress. Nothing I tried on felt like "the one" until I walked into Marcella's La Boutique and saw this Lazaro gown on display. I so confidently knew this dress was the one I had been searching high and low for before I even tried it on, and once I did, the deal was sealed! I love the delicate eyelash lace sweetheart neckline on the sheer Alencon lace bodice. The platinum sash bejeweled with opals and Swavorski crystals added sparkle, and the fit of the dress was impeccable. I am selling my dress here, and I know it'll make the next bride feel so perfectly beautiful on her wedding day.

The Shoes: Jimmy Choo 'Isabel' champagne glitter pump

When I was looking for wedding shoes, I wanted luxurious yet comfortable shoes, which is sometimes an oxymoron. But that is what I found in these Jimmy Choo pumps. The champagne glitter fabric is shimmery for a subtle glamour and the low heel made me feel like I wasn't wearing heels at all. I am also selling my shoes here.

The Accessories: diamond earrings and handmade veil

My parents gifted me these stunningly intricate diamond earrings on my wedding day. Since my dress had a bejeweled sash, I wanted to keep the rest of the accessories minimal, and these earrings complemented the look without overdoing it. I wear these earrings on special occasions and whenever I see them, I always think of my parents' generous love throughout my whole life. I will cherish them forever.

I took a veil-making class and actually made my own veil! I just wanted a simple, classic chapel veil and it turned out exactly how I imagined and was so much more economical as well as sentimental.

Photography by Benj Haisch

Black and blue

2013-04-05T13:47:00.000-07:00

J.Crew silk blouse

Rag & Bone jeans (similar)

Céline sunglasses

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag (similar)

Zara flats

Photography by Miguel Marino

Standing around Instagram-ing this photo while photobombing husband's test shots of the skyline during magic hour. It feels like spring, which means I'm bringing out my slew of colored denim with a vengeance, starting with this newly acquired pair by Rag & Bone. Just a casual outfit for date night to grab fancy pizza. Happy Friday!

Bar Sajor - Seattle

2013-04-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

I was excited to hear that Bar Sajor, owned by Matt Dillon of Sitka & Spruce and the Corson Building, was opening in Pioneer Square. We were married in this historical district of Seattle and I've always hoped that bars and restaurants would move into the old, brick buildings.

We came here the same night we shot this outfit post.

As the weather has gotten warmer, I've moved to lighter wines like rosé.

Loving the space and how they used a vintage sink as a wine cooler.

Tuna crudo with avocado, cilantro, and lime.

Shared half a chicken roasted in buttermilk with harissa, yogurt, and squash marmalade dipping sauces.

Side of kale with red chili.

Caramels as a sweet departing treat.

Gorgeous gold framed mirror I'd love to have in my home...

Photography by Miguel Marino

10,000 hours

2013-04-01T22:54:00.002-07:00

Equipment silk blouse

Acne coated jeans (similar)

Rebecca Minkoff leopard loafers

Balenciaga clutch

MAC Russian Red lipstick

Photography by Miguel Marino

I'm alive! This past week, I completed my master's degree!!! Even though the 16+ hour workdays were brutal, being able to learn and do what I'm passionate about are rewarding. Up next, husband and I will finally be going on our honeymoon to Europe! We will be traveling to Paris, Athens, Santorini, Milan, Venice, Cinque Terre, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and London -- please comment with recommendations. Thank you!

Room & Board tour

2013-03-04T00:17:00.001-08:00

Room & Board recently opened in University Village and invited me to tour their showroom last week. I've always loved home decor but even more so since husband and I purchased our townhouse half a year ago when we got married. The Room & Board tour was so inspirational, as each room was skillfully styled with a little bit of midcentury mixed with contemporary pieces while maintaining a livable comfort.

One of my favorite rooms. I love the retro midcentury look! Pictured: Anson sofa

Such luxurious details like the horizontal quilting on the leather chair. Pictured: Callan leather chair

Most gorgeous raw edge wood long dining table. Pictured: Chilton cherry dining table

I fell in love with this thick cable-knit rug! It instantly warms up a room and makes it so cozy. And of course, also adore the Noguchi cocktail table -- more Herman Miller goodies to come. Pictured: Cable rug

Room & Board stocks a drool-worthy amount of Herman Miller, like this classic Eames chair in a stunning red. Pictured: Eames molded plywood lounge chair

Clean dining space with natural elements. This dining table is made from reclaimed oak used in railroad cargo from the 1900's -- Seattleites love decor with history. Pictured: Howe table

Maybe because we're in the market for the perfect rug in our living room, but I couldn't help gasping in awe of all the rugs Room & Board has to offer. Patterning the cowhide adds incredible depth and texture in this rug. Pictured: Pure Park cowhide rug

We're also looking to replace the lighting above our dining table and we liked these handblown glass pendant lights. I can imagine lining up a row of them in various sizes. Pictured: Hennepin Made pendant

Room & Board's custom program is insanely amazing. It's so nice to have furniture fit your needs rather than, much too often, adjusting your home to fit the furniture.

Thank you so much to Room & Board for having me!

Photography by Miguel Marino

The Whale Wins - Seattle

2013-02-24T15:43:00.000-08:00

Whenever our out-of-town friends visit, we love to take them to new happening restaurants around Seattle. Last month, we went to The Whale Wins, sister restaurant of wildly successful the Walrus and the Carpenter.

My night look lately: diamond earrings, MAC Russian Red lips, and Madewell lace black dress.

Husband's usual Old Fashioned. Love the big ice cube!

Clams that are no longer on their menu so I can't describe it!

Painted Hills bone marrow, Jacobsen sea salt and golden raisin, caper, and pickled shallot relish. Can never go wrong with thick, buttery bone marrow.

Le Bleu des Basques with honey and crostini. Peanut butter and jelly, popcorn and butter, cheese and honey.

Caviar d'aubergine, roasted cauliflower with pine nuts, thyme and lemon peel.

Painted Hills filet mignon, salt roasted, sliced and served with sauce verte, potatoes and fresh horseradish cream. Not so sure about it being served at room temperature though..

The star of the night: braised Carlton Farms pork shoulder, Winesap apples, served with onions and mustard.

Whole roasted Yakima River farmed trout with roasted lemons and walnut sauce.

Photography by Miguel Marino

I Am Style-ish x Miguel Marino Photography

2013-02-19T18:58:00.001-08:00

Tiffany of I Am Style-ish photographed by my husband Miguel Marino Photography

My husband started his photography side business recently and was contacted by Tiffany, the adorable blogger behind I Am Style-ish, to photograph her and her husband's 5-year anniversary shoot with their dogs, Savvy and Macho (best names). I was so excited for him to take photos of them because Tiffany is always impeccably dressed! See more pictures at Tiffany's blog and please "like" Miguel Marino Photography on Facebook! He is offering starting prices for engagements, portraits, and weddings. If you mention you follow Hey Pretty Thing, we'll take 10% off your order. ;)

Hey Pretty Thing on Instagram

2013-02-15T16:59:00.000-08:00

I've been more prolific on Instagram lately just because of convenience. Follow Hey Pretty Thing on Instagram! Here are some of my latest photos:

1. Out and about town with the mister in Rebecca Minkoff and John Varvatos.
2. Surprise baked goodies from my husband on Valentine's Day!
3. Celebrated Chinese New Year with curry oysters eggs benedict on scallion pancakes and garlic baby bokchoy.
4. Loose bouncy waves for the weekend.
5. Gorgeous Céline sandals.
6. Every Friday my husband surprises me with a Friday funday treat after work! Here is this past month's treats: deep fried brat, red velvet cake, pumpkin pie with marshmallow fluff, and cupcake.

Have a fun long weekend!

Our Wedding: Photos (part 1) - Seattle skyline

2013-02-13T23:22:00.000-08:00

photography by Benj Haisch

Happy Valentine's Day! I am finally getting around to posting a few of our wedding photos after over five months of this beautiful day. Here we are on the rooftop of our venue overlooking the Seattle skyline. I loved this private opportunity, to be able to escape above the city and just be alone together...

Waiting for sustenance in Vancouver, BC

2013-02-11T21:27:00.001-08:00

Urban Outfitters snood (similar)

Dunderon field jacket (similar)

J.Crew dress as shirt (similar)

Rag & Bone skirt

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag

Oh hello. Thought I would pop out of my work cave for a minute to post... 6am-11pm work days have been brutal so please pardon the lack of updates. 2 more months of student teaching and grad school and one 90-page assessment paper to go, and then I'll have room in my life to blog again. For now, here's a simple layered outfit for a full day of roaming around on a couples weekend trip to Vancouver, BC last month. Specifically, we were about to head to Cafe Medina to get our lives changed for good (post on that to come).

Joule - Seattle

2013-01-30T21:21:00.000-08:00

Joule has been one of our newest favorite restaurants (posted about their brunch here)... to the point we took all our out of town guests here during the holidays. I love their custom sign playing off their name and Korean-fusion theme.

Husband's "Jalisco Campfire" made with tequila, agave, thai chili, and lime and my "Sweet Freedom" in the background of blood orange and elderflower liqueurs, lime, and makoli... so delicious!

Beer tartare with Asian pear and spicy code roe aioli.

Toast with oyster butter, smoked marrow, and pickled shallot.

Seaweed risotto, pickled leek, and smoked chili. Awesome twist on comfort food! Rachel Yang and Seif Chirchi, the husband and wife cooking duo, are seriously geniuses.

Spicy rice cake, chorizo, and pickled mustard green. Best take on dukbokki.

"That" short rib steak and grilled kimchi. Such flavorful kalbi.

Pork chop in date molasses with charred apple slaw.

Side of Chinese broccoli in walnut pesto.

Apple bread pudding, foie gras, and smokey buttermilk ice cream. Foie gras adds a smooth savory hint.

Joule box, pearl tapioca, and ruby grapefruit brulee in coconut.

Taro cheesecake.

Outdoor fire pit that I think they'll add patio seating around come spring. Can't wait until warmer weather!

Our Wedding: Polaroid invitations

2013-01-27T16:41:00.000-08:00

Polaroid invitations by Joséphine Jameson
Photography by Benj Haisch

The process of our wedding invitations was quite an adventure... Since husband and I both love photography, we wanted to incorporate that into our wedding, from our DIY photobooth Save the Date to our Polaroid wedding invitations. I first saw this idea from a graphic designer online so I hired the company to create our invitations. Three weeks before the projected deadline of sending out our invites, the company completely ceased contact. I sent reminders and questions, but received no responses. Finally, when I still hadn't heard back on the day we were supposed to have sent the invites out, I contacted my online friend Josie. Josie and I have "known" each other for years, and she had recently started her own graphic design company. I emailed her in a panic hoping she would be able to reproduce the vision of our Polaroid wedding invitations. Josie worked super hard on them, cutting out all the photos and Polaroids by hand, and shipped them to me within a week. She even gifted us a handmade personalized family tree, which was so sweet. Josie, I cannot thank you enough!

Holiday uniform + accessories

2013-01-22T21:11:00.001-08:00

Madewell lace dress

Plush fleece-lined tights

Christian Louboutin glitter pumps

MAC Russian Red lipstick

I'm a few weeks late on posting about holidays... blame crazy 6am-11pm workdays this past month. Anyway, the Christmas tree is no longer in our living room, but I am still wearing this holiday dress around. It's so classic and wearable, yet the lace makes it fancier for occasions. I always like to keep accessories simple but high-impact, like festive, sparkly pumps, a bold red lip, and diamond earrings my parents gifted me on my wedding day.

Sunday brunch: Joule - Seattle

2013-01-20T22:27:00.000-08:00

We love Revel and its sister restaurant, Joule, which recently remodeled and moved to Fremont. I'll post about dinner there soon because it is just so good. Today we checked out their brunch, further proving that these two sibling restaurants can do no wrong.

Brunch buffet included with your entree.

My plate (round 1): seaweed cracker, bacon buttermilk biscuit, citrus and mint marmalade, apple tart, pickled squash, and two cheeses.

Husband's plate (round 1): similar to above with an addiction of bacon walnut kale and homemade buttermilk dressing.

Porchetta, stuffed oatmeal, with a sweet chili rub.

Black sesame waffle, katsu-styled chicken fried steak, with smoky maple syrup.