Pad + Party

Spring Style!

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 03 Apr 2014 16:32:00 +0000

I am so excited to introduce to you one of my favorite people, and INCREDIBLE personal stylists, Lauren Hover! Lauren and I met about 7 years ago through our hubbies (who are college bffs) and we instantly became great friends. She is a gorgeous mama with the best style and impecable taste....thank goodness she started her own business a few years ago, b/c she is my "go to girl"! She is basically Pad + Party for Fashion, she can come to your house (Houston, Shreveport, Lafayette, Lake Charles and Baton Rouge ladies...call her!!!) she can help you edit your clothing and accesories, go shopping with you in your own closet, or at your favorite stores, and she also specializes in helping you pack for a trip (for the men in your life too!!) Plus, like me, she can do all this over the internet if you prefer!

That's Lauren and her handsome hubby, Wills, before a Gala last week!

Looking good lady!

So I decided I'd ask Lauren a few questions so that we can all be a little more stylish this spring!

Q: I end up wearing workout clothes ALMOST everyday...(but I wish I didn't!!) What's a good outfit for busy moms/ladies to wear on a daily basis that looks a little nicer than workout wear?

A: I'm guilty of it too. I usually throw on a pair of studs and put on my face and am out the door! But ideally..my favorite look is a pair of skinny jeans or shorts, cute belt, add your favorite tee (front-tucked of course) and a pair of sneakers. Sneakers are all the rage this Spring/Summer season-- This look makes me feel put together without "trying", yet I can still chase around the kiddos, be stylish and comfortable..all things that make mamas happy!

I love a front tuck. It's so flattering for all body types and also "camouflages" some of our not-so-favorite parts.

When wearing skinnies with the sneakers- I prefer a tight roll at the hem- about 2 inches.

(Depending on the length of your jeans)- you want to see your ankles!

My favorite sneakers are 'Superga'. They run $65-$85 and are best with a 'smart wool' no show sock. All can be found at Edit by LBP in Baton Rouge. So they are super affordable--you're staying on trend and you will be "dressed" but still comfortable!

P+P Sidenote...I bought my Supergas (see below) from Edit in Baton Rouge per Lauren, but you can get them online at Nordstrom and 6pm too!!!

P +P: I'm hoping the Easter bunny brings me another pair...maybe the leopard!!!

Q: Spring colors? Trends? Is neon still in?

A: As for spring colors- Everything orange is the 'it' color...

But you will for sure see black and white paired together, pastels, and white on white with everything in between.

Most likely- you have these color options already in your closet from previous seasons. Changing up your shoes and accessories will give you a fresh look while still feeling "trendy" without breaking the bank.

Whether neon is on trend or not- I always think a bright pop of color is fun and uplifting! Pair it back to neutrals for a softer look.I look to spring and summer to explore different color options!

Oh and leather is here to stay!

My rule for trends--BE YOU! Dress as yourself..wear what you feel best in- and add a trend -whether it be a statement necklace, lip color, leather, sneaker, etc.You will have more fun..being yourself but having that "on trend" item as an add-on will complete YOUR look!

Q: Any new or favorite designers?

A: My favorite jean designer is Rag & Bone by far. They are a great mid-rise option and perfect for those of us who have had kiddos.

Blank NYC- These pull on boot cut jeans are incredible! They are so so comfortable-I almost feel like I'm in pjs--and they are super flattering! And only $88.

Equipment makes fabulous silk blouses. They are phenomenal and always a great fit.

Amanda Uprichard- great silk tops/dresses

Alice and Olivia- Make the perfect pant. The tab waist flattering for everyone. Their shorts are fabulous too and can be worn dressy or casual. But are the appropriate length--without being "mom" shorts! ha

From working retail- those are a few of my favorite designers...but I love finding "steals" at j.crew, old navy, gap...etc.

Q: Explain what you do and who would be a good client!

A: I do everything from editing your closet to packing and planning your outfits for trips. (husbands too).
I help you weed out what your not wearing and help create new outfits with the items you have. You'd be amazed at how many "new looks" we can create with your wardrobe. (My aunt tells me I save her money--just b/c ppl get stuck with buying a look and don't know how to make those separates work with other pieces in their wardrobe! That's what I'm here for!)

I go shopping with clients and help wardrobe them for seasons at a time- or I can help you find that perfect accessory for your event. The skies the limit...I've helped brides/ mother of brides pick out jewelry, etc. Dressed brides head to toe for their special events.
Packed clients and their husbands for trips- with dressy/casual coordinating outfits! You pull out your list and it tells you exactly what your wearing that day- whether you're tucking your shirt in or what earrings your wearing. It takes the stress out of vacationing...so you can relax!!

Really and truly- I'm happy to help in your closet with whatever you need. My job is done when I see the client's self esteem rise because they feel good in their clothing options! It's a win-win for sure!!!

her email address is lebullock@gmail.com

Thank you so much Lauren!!!! I feel like I have a GREAT idea of what to look for/how to dress this Spring, and I can't wait!

I've got my supergas on and I'm ready to take on the front tuck! :)

Next week we'll have a blog post on how to translate Lauren's style in your home!!!

P + P

Copy Cat Chic: Lacefield Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 20 Feb 2014 12:48:00 +0000

I really hate to admit this, but I'm a total copycat, a lot of what ends up in my house, is an idea that I totally "borrow" from someone else. In fact I think most things in design are that way, (that's why they are called trends), so please don't judge me too much!

Anyway are y'all familiar with Lacefield Designs? If not, you should be! They are a wide ranging home decor business that includes textiles, decorative pillows, drapery panels and art. And everything is gorgeous!!! Especially this pillow that I've had my eye on for quite a while...it's just the punch of pinky coral that I needed to add to my living room!

Isn't it pretty? Well it's pricey too! $208 for just one pillow...and I needed 2!

So since I have about 100 other things that I need/have/want to spend $416 on

this is what I did...

I bought 2 of these velvet pillow from one of my favorite etsy shops,

for only $55 each

Then I headed over to MJ Trim and bought this greek key ribbon

(thanks for the rec House Happy Designs!!!

I bought 3 yards, and with a 15% first time buyer discount, I paid about $24.00

then I had the lovely and talented pillow lady of Shreveport, Mrs. V

(thanks again for the rec House Happy Designs!!) sew on the ribbon.

which cost me only $21 in labor....

so total cost of the entire pillow project was only $155 (for 2 pillows)!!!!!
I'd say that's a heck of a lot better than $416,
and I actually like the pink of my pillows better for the room!

Wahoo!

Here they are looking all cute...

I am so pleased with my copycat project! I hope this proves too, that sometimes you can actually SAVE money by going the custom route.

Especially if you are needing a very specific look. If you want help fluffing up your couch, contact padandparty@gmail.com! I'd love to help you get a new look with pillows!

Full Disclosure: One thing I did have going for me was that I already owned the down pillow inserts. I'm not sure whether or not the Lacefiled pillows came with inserts, so it would have added about $20 to the cost of the project, if I had to buy them as well. And I always suggest going with down inserts even though they cost more. It looks so much better (and is more comfortable) when pillows are fluffy!

Thanks for reading!

Do you have any copy cat moments that you are proud of?

If so, please share!!

P + P

Party Pics: Toddler Valentine's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Mon, 17 Feb 2014 14:41:00 +0000

It's been a while since I've entertained, so instead of having a regular get together with our little play group, I decided to have a full on baby Valentine's bash! It was so fun (and wild...14 babies from 3.5 months to 4 years old!)!! Here are some party pics (thanks Ellen, for photographing the whole thing!!)

there was a Valentine decorating station...(the teacher in me loves "stations")...

I made pink blueberry muffins using this recipe... (and red food coloring)

A friend brought these delicious incredible yummy best things ever...

and all in all, it was a great time!!! I spent less than $100 on everything so I think we will have more of these little toddler holiday parties in the future! However I was kind of brain dead the next day, so I took an idea from Houston Mom Blog and poured our balls in the bathtub!

we had a ball! haha I highly recommend it!

Happy Monday!!!

P + P

Gift Guide: Watercolors

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Lately I have had a thing for watercolor. And while I definitly LOVE my Waterlouge app...

I'm still a sucker for the real deal.

Let me introduce you to three super talented watercolourists that I have worked with recently...

First up is the talented Inslee from Inslee by Design. Who is actually a college friend of some of my highschool friends! Anyway she is an incredible talent, check out her website!!! She did paintings of both my sister and mama for their birthdays this year, and my brother had her paint, Hila and her dog Maude for Valentine's Day, and all three portraits turned out great!!!

Take a look...

Next up is Diedre Wicks, from the Water in my Paint shop,

who you may remember from the "Ballet Birdies" in Mae Mae's room...

Still love them so much!

Well it turns out that if you send her a personal message through Etsy (ha!) and ask her if she does comission potraits, she'll do one for you!!! (And for a great price I might add!) So here's the back story, right before Davy was born, I got a great pic of Mae Mae with about 20 bows in her hair. It was precious and my Dad totally fell inlove with the pic. So I ask Diedre to paint the pic and we gave it to him for Christmas!

Here's the painting...so dear.

I gave my Dad the original, but she gladly made prints for me

and I handed those out to other relatives at Christmas too! Plus I kept one for myself! :)

And last but not least, probably my favorite "wedding gift" to give is a house portrait. So when Davy's godparents got hitched in December, I just knew I had to get their sweet first house memorialized! I found Amy Brearley through, you guessed it...etsy! And she was fabulous, quick, and such a joy to work with! I highly recommend her!

And here's a pic of it after I picked it up from the framers!

So why not try watercolor for the next birthday, anniversary or baby gift?

It'll become a family heirloom and I know the recipent will cherish it greatly!!!

Happy Valentine's Day folks!

P + P

Valentine's Day and Playrooms!

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 15:06:00 +0000

At Pad + Party we are LOVING all the options for personalized "classroom valentines"this year!

Have you seen them? They are precious (tiny only 3.5 x 2.5 like the old school ones).

Here are a few of our favorites (from: Poppy Press, Pera Press, Tiny Prints, Minted, and Sugar & Spice)!
P.S. there's still time to order before Feb 14th!!!

The Donut Valentines are just too cute and so I did a little researching and came across the adorable printable from one of my favorite blogs I heart naptime

I just can't think of anything better than a donut valentine, but unfortanetly I already bought all of Mae Mae's little Valentine's treats, and while they aren't assembled yet, I think they will turn out great!

I found some pink "peeps" at the grocery store.

And I'm thinking about either going in the "Glad you're my peep!" or "You're one cool chick" direction, and maybe doing a nest of some sort out of crinkly paper...we shall see (stay tuned:)

--------------------------------------------------------------

And on a totally unrelated topic, playrooms have been on my brain lately so when my friend, Bailey, posted this picture of her son's playroom on Instagram...

I got motivated to get my playroom butt in gear!

I asked her to share pics of Thomas' fun space!

But first you must meet Thomas!!

(probably the cutest kid in the world...)

Here he is playing with his mama's shoe laces

because they are SO much more fun than toys...

Her favorite part of the room are the shelves and baskets from Ikea! (We actually have those in our playroom too! How funny!) But I just love the vibe of the whole room.

It's so kiddie and colorful but yet so well designed!

Check out the wallpaper they are going to install soon...

Geeez...It's just perfect.

You go girl and thanks for sharing!!!

If you are "playroom - proud" (or anything proud!)

please email padandparty@gmail.com!

I'd love to share your photos on the blog!!

That's all for now, thanks for visiting!

XO,

P + P

And we're back! Catch up time

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Sorry for the extended vacay...between spending a month in Texas, loving on my fam, finishing up and starting a few work things, unpacking a months worth of stuff, and trying to start 2014 off with some healthy habits around here, I haven't had one free second to post (or if I did, I filled it with Treehouse Masters and a Bud Light - y'all watch this Peyton Manning Video David sent me...it's the best!)

Anyway I do want to keep up this blog, because it's such a creative outlet for me, but am totally going to blame the excessive posting back in the day on crazy nesting hormones! When I originally started the blog, I was wanting it to be more like a newsletter, but blogging just seemed to be the easiest and most accesible way to do that, so we will see how it evolves... I'm trying to be open for God to take P+P (the business and the blog too) where He wants it to go. Because a lots of things (not just P+P) have been growing and changing around here like my bunnies!!!!

Mae Mae's bows have been growing too! Haha thanks to a Christmas present from her Godmother!

And speaking of healthy habits, we started trying to sit down as a family and eat dinner together! We've been doing it for about a week and it's definitely one of the best parts of my day!

The kiddos like it too...

Ok enough about me, on to important Pad + Party stuff...
play area updates and ideas for Valentine's Day treat bags coming soon!

It's good to be back. Thanks for reading and I hope you are having a great 2014 so far!!!

Oh and also a shout out to my mama! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MILLIE!!!!!

WE LOVE YOU!!!!!

XO,

P + P

Dinner Party Diva: Laurie from House Happy!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Fri, 13 Dec 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Hey! Today's post is brought to you by my super sweet and talented friend, Laurie of House Happy!

Aren't her and her hubs sooo cute?

(First comes love, then comes marriage... ;)

She was one of the first people to inspire/encourage me to get all this stuff going with her incredible blog, when she posted on Mae Mae's nursery! Anyway Laurie is one of my dearest friends, and it just so happens that she has incredible taste and throws fabulous parties, so it is very fitting that she is our Santa Baby Dinner Party Diva! Take a look at her gorgeous table and yummy recipe!!!

I love how sparkly and festive this setting is. It just makes me feel so merry and bright! From the little frosted pinecones to the shimmery napkins and poinsettia...this table is perfection!!!

Laurie got the beautiful candy cane stripe placemats

by Kitchen Papers from Mint Julep Paperie in Shreveport!

MJP has really really great looking paper products and does fabulous custom stuff! Laurie does a lot of design work for them and she has made some of the most gorgeous invites/stationary that I have ever seen! Owner of MJP, Claire, is a friend of mine too, and not only does she own the cutest shop in Shreveport, but she has a blog too, and it's awesome of course (It's called Writing & Inviting...so stinking cute!! Y'all should really check out Mint Julep, they are so good!

Anyway back to the party...it's time for the yummy stuff!

Laurie's favorite dish to make is Crawfish Etouffee!

This is her mama's recipe!

Ingredients:

1 stick of real butter

1 bunch of green onions

1 large onion

4 cans of Golden Mushroom Soup

1 can of Cream of Celery

2 (1 pound) packages of Crawfish Tails

3 teaspoons of Tony's Seasoning

1 pound bag of White Rice

In a large pot saute the chopped onion and green onions in the stick of butter.

Lower to medium temperature and add the remaining ingredients.

Stir often because it can burn easily.

When it becomes bubbly decrease the temperature to low and let cook for 20 minutes.

Cook your rice according to the directions on the box/bag.

Serve the Etouffee over the rice.

Laurie likes to cook the etouffee the night before she serves it so that you really taste all of the seasonings! '

And she usually serves a light Spinach Salad with it since the etouffee is on the rich side...

Ingredients:

A bag of spinach

Brianna's Real French Vinaigrette Dressing

Croutons

Shredded Parmesan Cheese

Mix everything in your salad bowl, place in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Thank you so much for sharing Laurie!!! You're the best!

P + P

Living Room Updates

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 13:00:00 +0000

So we ended up postponing the house tour on Design Mom until I could finish a few more projects around the house. One of those being a living room update! My mom gave me her old seagrass rug (my Dash & Albert is just too dirty/old/flimsy for kiddos), I'm having some pillows made -belated birthday gift (adding pink!!!), and I've asked for a one gorgeous piece of artwork for Christmas (it's called Cypress Forrest by Ashton Shaw Despot)...so hopefully Santa is listening and my living room will have a little more of this going on by January!

We have a lot of dark army green and brown/caramel in the room and we already have those chairs with the PD Fig Leaf fabric pillows, so I am hoping the addition of these new fun colors will lighten it up a bit too! And isn't that painting beautiful? She was a sorority sister of mine who lives in NOLA and I have fallen in love with her work! I will show you more of it soon!! It's all INCREDIBLE!!

ALSO a Festive Dinner Party Diva brought to you

by my girl Laurie of House Happy later this

week and another gift guide! GSE!

P + P

P + P Particulars: Hilary's Haute Picks

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 18:10:00 +0000

So my brother's girlyfriend, Hilary Bird, is a totally creative, smart, hip and beautiful young lady (and we are SO happy that she likes to hang around Uncle T)!! She was the one that actually came up with Pad + Party logo (the two P's tied together with a bow...so fresh!) and was one of my biggest encouragers to start the biz! (Thanks Hila!) Anyway she sends me the coolest stuff 24-7 (a lot of it from fresh young Texan artists) and so I thought I'd start a little feature honoring all the neat stuff she has brought into my life.

Aren't they cute?? LOOOOOVE them!

First up is Pearly Gates Design, not only does super talented artist Carrie (UT grad), make beautiful custom invitations and stationary...

but her shop is stocked with fabulous, unique and custom gifts!

I'm LOVING those napkins!!! Would be a great hostess gift for your next holiday party....

Hilary also introduced me to this gorgeous line of handmade jewelry by Nicola Bathie, a TCU grad!

Have you heard of it? It's beautiful!!!

Check out some of P + P's favorite items...

And last but not least...Hilary has let me in on a little shoe secret...(I've posted about their clothing and home department in the past) BUT Zara has AWESOME, COMFY and relatively INEXPENSIVE shoes!!! Who knew?

Hilary bought these beauties a few weeks ago...

$159

Here are some of my other favorites from Zara...

$49

$179

$35

Anyway now you know!

Thanks Hila Bird...Keep em' coming!

P + P

P + P Particulars: Stocking Stuffers

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 21 Nov 2013 19:55:00 +0000

Almost 18 months ago (yep MM is almost 18 months!!) I found Beth from 1canoe2 through our mutual love of letterpress. I had her make Mae Mae's sweet birth announcements and she did a fantastic job...

I recently made a visit to her site when planning Davy's announcements and was totally blown away by everything she has going on!! Talk about great stocking stuffers (tea towels, milk glasses, notepads, calendar etc)...her whole website is on my Christmas list this year!!! Check it out...

Beautiful Holiday Cards

Sweet Kid Cards!

You can't tell from the pic, but this calendar is large!

I want this to hang over the kids' Busy Board in the kitchen!

Wouldn't these prints be PERFECT in a little boy's nursery?

Presidents Glasses

Why not study Social Studies with some cookies?

I know someone who needs this print in her dorm room (cali sister are ya reading this?)

Cutest Grocery List Notepad EVER

Hand painted Globes

I want to get Mae Mae this pink globe sooo bad!

It's up for Auction on ebay right now!!!

Tea Towels

Isn't it awesome?

Happy gifting!

P + P

P + P Particulars: Stockings

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 14 Nov 2013 20:17:00 +0000

If you don't have a stocking to hang over the fireplace this year...it's time to get one for you and your loved ones. Stockings are a fun way to make a statement or emphasize an already beautiful mantle. Since there are so many options to chose from...here is a round up of Pad + Party's favorite stockings from around the web in every design style!!

TRADITIONAL

Sferra

MINIMALIST

VINTAGE

WHIMSICAL

RETRO

LUXE

CRAFTY

WINTER WHITE

GLOBAL

And we'll bring you P + P's favorite stocking stuffers soon!!!

P + P

P + P Particulars: Christmas Cards and a GIVEAWAY!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Mon, 11 Nov 2013 14:57:00 +0000

Well we took our Christmas Card pic this weekend and David just can't understand why we had to do it "soooo early", but the crazy thing is, that it really isn't that early, and if you want to get your card out by Dec 24th, you've got to start the process now...I know...stressful! But don't be stressed, I'm here to help! p. press to the rescue!!!

I discovered this exceptional little paper shop via Etsy about a year ago and owner Sheri Scruggs made me the cutest calling cards! Well I looked her up while Christmas card hunting this year, and was sooo pleasantly surprised by her selection. BUT what really blew me away is that she does CUSTOM CARD DESIGN at no additional fee...yep that's right! So while I love me some minted, and tiny prints, and mpix, it was a no brainer to go with P. Press this year to get a totally unique card!!!

And even better, if you place your order now (even if you don't have your photo yet) you can get 30% off and free address labels with the code JOLLY30!!!

But hurry offer ends November 15th!!!

If custom card design isn't your thing, take a look at

P + P's favorite P. Press holiday cards available now!!!

And now on to the best part about this post...we are becoming a super official legit blog today...we are having a GIVEAWAY!!!! Yep Pad + Party's first giveaway, just in time for Christmas! (These would make excellent Christmas gifts for your girlfriends, hostess gifts, or a gift to yourself to write all your Holiday thank yous!!!!) Today we are giving away 30 p. press folded note cards!!!!

All you have to do is share this post on Facebook or Instagram (and make sure to tag us!) Or you can just say nice things about P + P, however you want to share it with social media, please do so...and on Friday we'll have a winner!!! So use your manners and SHARE!!!

And a big thank you to Sheri Scruggs, owner of p.press, for making this giveaway possible!!

P + P

P + P Particulars: Christmas Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Fri, 08 Nov 2013 16:10:00 +0000

Since there are only 46 more days until Christmas, I thought we'd start a "Christmas Gift" feature (it's never too early!) I come across so many wonderful and unique gifts on the internet, and I feel like it is my duty to share them with you so that you can be a thoughtful gift giver (or else I'm just wasting tons of time ha...don't tell David)! Today I am featuring leMel designs, a gorgeous jewelry line, that happens to be owned and created by my good childhood friend Melanie and her sister Jennifer!

Melanie (left) Jennifer (right)

Aren't they gorgeous? Melanie is a hot shot PR lady out in LA and Jennifer manages my favorite jewelry shop in Houston, Charde! (Jennifer is also about to have a baby and she is one of the most gorgeous pregnant people I've ever seen...no kidding) I got to see both of these cuties at a wedding recently (where I was sporting some gorgeous leMel earrings courtesy of the bride...thanks Jules!) and it was so great catching up! I was reminded of how fun it is to see childhood friends, especially when they haven't changed a bit and are doing such cool things in life! You go girls!

Anyway their stuff is gorgeous and makes the perfect gift for the lovely lady in your life!

Check out some of P + P's favorite leMel jewels!!!

See their entire collection online at their website, or visit Charde in Houston!

Happy Gift Giving!

P + P

PS If you need help finding something for everyone on your Christmas list, contact Pad + Party, we offer Christmas Shopping Services!!!

P + P Particulars: Southern Living Style/DPD

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 17:01:00 +0000

At P + P, we are in the Thanksgiving spirit, well not really, we've still got jack-o-lanterns on the front porch, but we did pick up the latest copy of Southern Living and upon devouring it, we got inspired!!! You see, sadly, I picked out a china pattern that I've gotten a little tired of...

Spode "Delamere" in Brown

BUT after reading SL, I have a new fondness for it BECAUSE they paired it (see the last pic) with my favorite BLUE & WHITE!!!! If I was having T-giving at my house, this is totally how I would set the table, but since I am not, I thought I'd set up my table anyway and plan a dinner party (that might not ever happen because OMG this time of year is too busy!!!!)

Check out the beautiful table from Southern Living...

Now see my "Copycat" Style...

Now obviously my setting wasn't as spectacular as Southern Living's, but WHO CARES! That table setting didn't cost me a dime (yes I have feathers lying around the house) and it makes me oh so happy to see my china in a new light!!! Do you like it?

If you want help setting your Thanksgiving table, or you want to be a Dinner Party DIVA...email padandparty@gmail.com we are here to help... $25 consultation fee!

P + P

P.S. I'm putting together another post on Lucite furniture because after the first post, I had tons of people texting and emailing me proclaiming their love for the stuff too! They've sent pics of how they use it in their house and y'all...it's awesome! So if you LOVE lucite, email padandparty@gmail.com a pic of it in your casa and I'll feature it on the blog!

P + P Particulars: Pumpkins Part III (aka the Finale) and Toddler Treat Bags

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Wed, 06 Nov 2013 20:05:00 +0000

Hope everyone had the HAPPIEST Halloween! Mae Mae was super sick all week (which was a total bummer for me b/c I was way too excited slash I was acting like it was New Years Eve...way too much hype and build up in my head) and then once our cupcake wasn't feeling her best, we blew everything off, did a little trick or treating, came home, drank wine and ate our frito pies! All in all it was a perfect night!

I did get a chance to drill our pumpkins and it was so fun!!! However I will have to admit, I did the entire activity by myself (so much for family bonding/memories)! And it made me realize what I realize every time I use power tools, that I should use them more often, because they are therapy to me! Anyway I didn't really put a lot of thought into the pumpkin design because there were like 10 minutes left during nap time, but I still think they turned out pretty cute!

My sweet friends, Mr. and Mrs. Born, drilled their pumpkins too! And they totally showed me up, they made a pumpkin for their sweet pup Izzy!!! Look how cool!

Way to go guys, y'all've got skills...

Another fun Halloween Happening around here was made possible by my new friend Holly, from Holly Days! She sent Mae Mae the CUTEST treat bag tags for her Trick or Treat Party at School!!!

My original idea was to fill treat bags with gummy worms and spiders and Hershey's kisses (get it? "Bugs and Kisses"?) But after polling my mom friends, I decided that gummy snacks and hershey kisses might be too much of a choking hazard for 1.5 year olds, SO I filled the treat bags with orange goldfish, graham goldfish, regular raisins and yogurt raisins and called it a day! I still think they turned out great and Halloween-y! I have a few tags left over, so maybe we'll do the gummy worms and kisses next year!

Thanks again Holly for Mae Mae's ADORABLE tags!!!! Here are a few of my favorite items from her store, but you have to check it out for yourself...she has SOOO many precious and unique things!!!

That's it for today!

P + P

Dinner Party Diva: Melissa

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 17:30:00 +0000

Welcome to P + P's newest feature...Dinner Party Divas!!! As most of you know, I love to entertain, and dinner parties are one of my favorite ways to do so! Setting the table, using my china and planning the menu...is all very therapeutic to me for some reason, and then the conversation and vino at the party are just the icing on the red velvet cake! I thought a fun way to share my love of dinner parties would be to enlist my friends (who all have exquisite taste and beautiful plates!) and showcase a fabulous dinner party at their house!

First up is Melissa, beautiful new mama and fabulous 1st grade teacher, this girl does it all!!

Here is the Design Board for how she likes to throw a
casual fall get together using her "Berry & Thread" Juliska china!

And here is Melissa's table all set and pretty!

Aren't her velvet pumpkins adorable??? You can get them at Indulge Decor!

Melissa's favorite meal to serve on a fun fall night is...

Spaghetti with Turkey Meat Sauce and a Strawberry Walnut Salad!

Yum! Here are her recipes...

"Mookie's Spooky Strawberry Walnut Salad"

INGREDIENTS:

Mixed Greens

Strawberries

Red Onion

Green Apple

Feta

Brianna's Blush Wine Vinagrette

DIRECTIONS:

Chop it all up

Throw it in a bowl

Pour some of this goodness on it...

Spaghetti w/ Turkey Meat Sauce

(#icutandpastedthisfromrachaelrayswebsite)

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound whole wheat spaghetti

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 pound ground turkey

Salt and black pepper

1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1/4 cup chopped parsley

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

directions

In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain, reserving 1 cup pasta cooking water.
Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat; add the onion and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Increase the heat to medium-high, crumble in the turkey, season with salt and black pepper and cook until the turkey is just no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and crushed red pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 15 minutes. Stir in the parsley and cheese.
Toss the pasta with the sauce and 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water, adding more water to thin the consistency, if desired. Serve immediately with more cheese.

Thanks for sharing Melissa!!!

And thanks for being our first

Dinner Party Diva! Whoop Whoop!

Next up is Amanda!! Get excited!!

P + P

P + P E-Design Project: NYC Bedroom

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 16:46:00 +0000

Do y'all remember the NYC Bedroom E-Design project? Well today you get to see the AFTERS!!! It was a total transformation, and working with this client was just beyond fun!!! She knew exactly what she wanted, just needed a little help pulling it all together!!!

Here's a reminder of the Bedroom BEFORE:

Here's the Design Board:

And here are the AFTERS!!!!

Meg's super talented and wonderful mama did all the sewing (isn't she great!!) and Meg already owned a lot of the accessories so all I had to do was help them with placement and making the most of the space. I love how the appliqué on the white shower curtain turned out, it makes a perfect "renter's" closet door! And Meg's mom thought of (and made) the cute valance to hide the ugly shower curtain rod...genius!!! We added a headboard at the last minute, and I'm so glad because I think that it really makes the room look like a bedroom and gives Meg a comfy spot to lounge at the end of the day!

Meg, I hope you are enjoying your happy little space in the BIG CITY!!! Loved working with you!

P +P

P.S. How cute is that Meg? :)

P + P Particulars: Houston Hot Spots

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 12:00:00 +0000

Because of David's crazy work schedule, I end up spending a lot of time in Houston. I love the city for so many reasons...family, food, shopping, kid's attractions and of course all my sweet friends!!! And while I still consider myself a die hard Houstonian, with new restaurants opening every week, there's no way I can keep up with the best places to dine. Therefore often (and obnoxiously) I send out a group text asking for recommendations. And my friends always pull through! Here is a list of 12 of the most "fun, new, trendy and romantic"Houston Hot Spots compiled by my friends the foodies!

Bon Appetit!

P + P

P.S. We painted pumpkins and it was really fun!

Yes MM tasted the paint...every color.

P + P Particulars: Pumpkins Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Tue, 22 Oct 2013 12:00:00 +0000

We've been to two different pumpkin patches this year and so far...no cute pics. I dressed the kids up in their Monogrammed and Smocked Fall Best for the first trip...but couldn't get crazy girl to smile.

She's like "Are you kidding me Mom?"

Those are Millie's arms because even though MM begs to hold "Baby Davy" 24-7, she apparently wants nothing to do with him at Pumpkin Patches...not that its safe for her to hold him anywhere. But I was willing to sacrifice his safety for a cute pic.

So on our way out to the country, I saw a pumpkin patch on the side of the road and decided maybe a spontaneous trip would yield better pictures...no such luck.

That was the best picture I got...however this time we actually picked out and bought pumpkins!

Since Mae Mae and Davy are too young to get the whole "put a smiling face" on the pumpkin thing and because I have two really cute terracotta jack-o-laterns already on my porch, I decided we would try power tools on our pumpkins this year! We are going to wait to drill these babies this weekend so that they'll last until Halloween, but I have found plenty of inspirational pumpkins on the internet...

I'm thinking about going with polka dots and maybe doing a little bit of fretwork design too!

I'll post pics if they turn out!

We also got a few "spookies" aka small pumpkins (haha that's what they called them at both patches, so it must be legit) and Mae Mae and I are going to try this fun tutorial by Stacey

Get excited for Pumpkins Part III next week, haha the never ending post...

P + P

P + P Particulars: Pumpkins Part I

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Fri, 18 Oct 2013 12:00:00 +0000

This year I decided to leave the Halloween decorations in the attic. Which I'm sure makes me a bad mom/homemaker, but I just didn't have the heart to add more stuff to all the clutter of boppy pillows and push toys we've already got going on! However I couldn't skip the pumpkins!!!! We are going to try something new with our big pumpkins on the porch this year (it involves a power drill!! pics coming soon) but here are a few P + P styled pumpkins that have really gotten me in the Fall mood!

Love mixing in limes and satsumas with the white pumpkins for a fun mix of fall colors

and my very favorite pumpkin....

Mae Mae's pumpkin bloomers are from here

While in Houston the last 2 weeks, I had the honor of teaching a lesson at Circle of Friends. (My mom is the leader of the teen group that meets every Wednesday night, and since my background is in Special Education, I love attending the group whenever I'm in town...email padandparty@gmail.com if you are in the Houston area and want more information on this great ministry!!!)

Anyway we talked about how a Pumpkin is like a Christian. Here is a link to the entire lesson...it's a fun way to sprinkle a little spiritual meaning into a fun holiday activity with your child!

I hope you have a great weekend!

Next week we'll have some Pumpkins Part II, a new Tablescape feature and 1st Birthday Party Pics!!!

P + P

Favorite Finds: Black and White Abstract Art

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 17 Oct 2013 12:00:00 +0000

I love using black and white in interiors. The contrast is gorgeous, the colors are classic, and it is cozy and exciting all at the same time! And while I think the Kardashians have taken the whole black and white color scheme a little too far...I think in small doses, b + w = perfection! In fact, I try to incorporate a little black and white in every room I decorate. Here are some of my favorite ways to do so...

Black and White Penny Tile in a Bathroom

an Alabaster Lamp with a Black Shade

or in a fun fabric... I have a super big crush on Kelly Wearstler's "Confetti" in Cream

Another fun way to use black and white in your casa is through artwork.

One of my closest friends, Courtney, has a beautiful set of black and white art that hangs in her adorable living room. Every time I go visit her, I always admire them (along with the rest of her gorgeous house!!), and she was sweet enough to share them with us!

Take a look at how she incorporated black and white art in her living room!

Gosh they look so great with the navy chairs and beautiful hardwoods...

thank you so much for sharing Court!!! It is perfect!!!

Feeling inspired? Here is a tutorial on how to get the b + w look and get the kids involved (I'm seriously thinking about letting Mae Mae do this for me! so fun!)

Or here is a link to some beautiful black and white original artwork on Etsy!

P + P

PARTY PICS: Mexican Welcome Party!

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Wed, 16 Oct 2013 12:00:00 +0000

Last week I was honored to have a small part in decorating for a Fiesta in celebration of my good friends Julie and Will. Thanks to all the incredible hostesses it turned out so great!!

Check out the pics from the party...

And a BIG shout out to decorating crew: Penny, Judy and Sheri, y'all are ALL STAR hostess/party planners! Will you please become offical P + P Consultants?

I had SOOOO much fun setting up, learning from and watching y'all do your thing! Thanks for letting me help!!!

Here they are in action...

OLE!!!

P + P

Email padandparty@gmail.com if you'd like help with your next party!!!

And we're back!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Thu, 10 Oct 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Hey Everybody! Pad + Party is back! I can't thank everyone enough for all the sweet phone calls, texts, emails, food and gifts for Baby Davy! We are seriously so blessed and just love him to pieces and appreciate all the love and support from y'all! God is good and I am so thankful that He chose me to be Davy and Mae Mae's Mama! Here are a few of my fav pics from when we brought our boy home!

Mae Mae says "I'm outta here..."

Needless to say we have had an incredible past few weeks..but in between snuggles and diapering, some really fun Pad + Party things have been going on!!! We have another completed project, one project that is almost done and a new project just beginning!!! Can't wait to share all that goodness with you soon! We also did a lot of brainstorming and collaborating over the past few weeks and have come up with some really cool new features that will be on the blog soon.

However I feel like Pad + Party needs to pump up the "Party" side of the business...I've had so much fun designing rooms and obsessing over interior decor the past few months, that I've neglected half of what Pad + Party is all about...so let's get back into the swing of things with some inspiration for a Mexican themed Welcome Party...which happens to be taking place TONIGHT!

We are setting up as we speak...can't wait to show you how it turns out!

!Bienvenido a la Fiesta!

OLE!

P + P

(it's good to be back!)

She Get it from Her Mama...

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:14:00 +0000

Hey!! Out of babyland for a second to share a new feature..."She Get it from Her Mama" (like the song :) ! I know I've explained this before, but my mother is definitely one of my biggest design influences. Growing up in our home was not only cozy and fun, but totally inspiring to me! She has great taste and could be an interior decorator herself, if she wasn't so busy volunteering and saving the world! She has worked with incredible interior designer, Cathy Chapman, over the years to create an elegantly comfortable home filled with love. I am not ashamed to say that I totally "copy cat" my mom's style and try to put my own spin on it.

This will be the first "She Get it from Her Mama" feature. You can expect to see pictures of both of our homes and how I translate my mom's inspirational vignettes and decor into my own. Today I will be sharing our gallery wall stairs! Both filled with black and white family photos. The thing I love most about my mom's stairs (besides all the sweet pictures of my relatives) is the white mats mixed with the different frames. I had to stick with black frames from Michaels and Hobby Lobby for budget reasons, but I hope one day I'll be able to collect beautiful vintage frames like my mothers! Take a look at our "walls-of-frame"! Haha that was so corny...

MOM'S WAY

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MY WAY

And a big THANK YOU to my mother in law

who helped me hang each one of those frames in one afternoon!

David Richard Wallace III

noreply@blogger.com (Emilie) — Fri, 13 Sep 2013 18:35:00 +0000

Sweet Davy arrived yesterday morning at 8:11 am! He weighs 8 lbs 4 oz and is 21.25 inches long! We are all doing great and feel so blessed to be a family of four. Candace came to the hospital and took the sweetest most perfect pictures that we will cherish always. Thank you for all the well wishes and prayers!

1 Samuel 1:27–28

"I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD." (NIV)