Southern Vogue

Kentucky Derby Birthday, Part I: Making Plans

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Tue, 07 May 2013 05:13:00 +0000

This past weekend, I hosted a Kentucky Derby party to celebrate my 27th birthday.

It was probably my favorite party that I've ever hosted.

I've recently received a lot of requests for a few detailed posts about how I plan my parties.

So, consider this your first tutorial!

I'll take y'all step-by-step through how I bring my party plans to fruition.

Of course, every party for me starts with a little tiny spark, a baby idea of something I want to do.

Sometimes these ideas hatch WAY before I host the actual party.

For example, I know that I want my Bachelorette Party to be Bar Golf themed,

and I know I want my 30th Birthday to be a Gatsby soiree to say goodbye to my Roaring Twenties.

I'm quite far from either of these things, but I just know I'll make them happen in due time!

Four years ago, in 2009, I knew I wanted to host a Kentucky Derby party after seeing the gorgeous photographs in Essentially Lilly: A Guide to Colorful Entertaining.

Honestly, right after my Golden Birthday last year, I set my sights on a Derby theme for lucky 27.

Here's my first party-planning tip:

Start your party prep so early that people think you're a nut for doing things that early.

To me, fabulous parties are in the little tiny details.

Little tiny details happen by starting early.

On any given night, I'm working on some random little project while I'm watching TV.

It's nothing big.

I'm stamping macarons onto placecards.

I'm tying bows around silverware.

I'm spray painting plastic horses silver.

I'm making pink chocolate horses with a candy mold.

These are all very small things that make a party fabulous.

But, they're also the things that don't make the cut if you're in a rush or doing something last-minute.

So, pick a theme. Pick it early.

Now, keep your eyes peeled over the next six months.

About nine months ago, I found gorgeous equestrian Threshold vases in the shape of trophy cups on clearance.

Buy them!

I found bulk plastic horses for CHEAP on Amazon.

I thought they'd be cute painted silver and placed at each place setting.

See the perfect party favor at Forever 21 for $3.80/each? Buy 20.

This also helps me space out my spending.

I'd much rather spend $50 a month over six months than drop a quick $300 at one time.

Know what I mean? Things are easier to swallow in small doses!

Truth be told, very often I pick a theme based on a cute invitation that I found.

So, when it comes to the chicken or the egg, sometimes the invitation comes before the theme for me.

For the Derby party, I found these adorable julep invitations from Twist Paper.

I loved the invitation so much that it also determined the color scheme.

Not that I vary too greatly in my color preferences,

so (surprise, surprise!) I went with pink, green, silver, gold & a touch of blue!

I'm a BIG believer in sending real invitations (boo to evites!), and I try to send mine out four weeks in advance.

For holiday parties, I'll even send a save-the-date three months out since December fills up so quickly for most people.

OK, that was party tutorial numero uno!

Next up? The who, what, where.

xoxo

April Book Club: Bringing Home the Birkin

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:24:00 +0000

Stamp of Approval: Pond's Luminous Collection

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:17:00 +0000

POND'S recently contacted me about their new collection & posed a simple question...

What makes you feel luminous?

For me, I feel luminous when I'm celebrating the little things in life.

I live a celebratory life & find joy in making anything a party!

Bronzed skin & a happy glow after an afternoon by the pool in the hot Texas sun

Buying a special dress even before I have a special occasion to wear it to

Stepping off an airplane in a new city to explore

Checking an item off of my bucket list

Celebrating with a glass of bubbly & a slice of cake

An unexpected compliment from an unexpected source

As strange as it sounds, the two things I receive the most compliments about are my hair & my skin.

Thankfully, I've been blessed with skin that never breaks out. It's not oily. It's not dry.

As a result, people often ask me my skin regimen. The sad reality is that I don't have one. Or, I didn't have one.

Until now!

Enter POND'S Luminous Collection.

You should know by now that I never promote products on Southern Vogue that I don't absolutely love.

Well, I've spent the entire month of April using POND'S, and I can honestly say I'm obsessed.

My skin has never looked better.

There are four products in the new Luminous collection:

Cream Cleanser, Daily Exfoliating Cleanser, Day Lotion with SPF 15 and Cleansing Towelettes.

I use the Exfoliating Cleanser every day when I'm in the bath or shower.

I like how I can feel it exfoliating my skin, but it doesn't feel gritty.

It's the perfect hybrid of getting a good clean and still feeling like a treat for my face!

Day Lotion with SPF 15 is enriched with illuminating minerals.

The weightless formula contains UVA and UVB sun protection against skin-damaging rays

{and we all know we need to be protected against those bad boys}.

The Wet Cleansing Towelettes are my absolute favorite of the collection.

The Towelettes are enriched with moisturizing ingredients and soft white Kaolin clay known to act like a magnet, to gently draw out dirt, makeup and deep-dwelling impurities leaving skin bright and luminous.

Since I have a history of being fairly.... lazy... with a skincare routine, these are the answer.

I don't have to dunk my face under the faucet and risk getting my hair wet.

I get my day's makeup off & clean my skin all in one swift swipe.

I could even keep a pack in my purse if I wanted to. They're perfect.

GIVEAWAY!

OK, it's your turn now. I know you want to try these goodies.

The good people of POND'S are giving away all four products in the collection to one of you!

Simply leave a comment with your e-mail address, and a winner will be selected on Monday, May 6.

{Contest officially ends at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, May 5.}

Cheers to feeling luminous, y'all!

xoxo

**I participated in this sponsored campaign for One2One Network. I received monetary compensation and product to facilitate my post, but all opinions stated are my own.**

{Second Annual} Shift Into Spring Brunch

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 02:57:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, I hosted my second annual "Shift Into Spring" Brunch!

I host the party on the Saturday immediately following the first day of Spring, which falls in late March.

This is typically the smallest party that I host since

I only invite the girls I know who are fellow Lilly Lovers!

If you’ll remember, for last year’s party I made the invitations myself from some unused Lilly stationery.

This year, though, I purchased darling shift invitations by Twist at Paper Source in Dallas {on sale!}.

They fit the theme quite perfectly, & I loved that the shifts could be personalized with a monogram.

The most important detail, of course, was the attire!

Last year, since it was the first time I hosted the party, the décor was shift-centric.

I needed to mix up the décor to keep things fresh, so I kept the traditional pink & green Lilly colors, but I also added some fun prints & patterns.

My favorite element was the “Chin Chin” napkins that I received as a GWP during Lunch at Lilly {I only have one set, so Helen let me borrow hers, too!}

Again, I tied the napkins like a bow tie and used these darling dotted pink Julie Brown napkin rings that I purchased last year at Horchow.

I went through my cave of party supplies & found these wooden utensils that I bought years ago on clearance at Anthropologie.

I decided to use them and thought they looked totally darling!

Once again, I pulled out my darling hot pink scalloped Matouk placemats that Miranda gave me for my birthday last year.

{I’m desperately seeking two more sets if anyone knows where to find the hot pink!}

I think the tablescape came together beautifully; I love all the pink & green!

Because what's a party without French Macarons?

Katie & Helen

Andrea & Miranda

Le Menu

Pimento Cheese on a Croissant

Smoked Gouda Pimento Cheese on Wheat

Spinach Quiche

Fruit Salad

Spinach Salad with Cherry Tomatoes & Feta Cheese

Vanilla Thumbprint Cookies

Celebrity Bakery Iced Sugar “Carrots”

Blue Bell Vanilla Ice Cream

Pink Fizzy Punch

The sweetest little thumbprint cookies

A carrot a day keeps the doctor away.

Miranda, Andrea, Katie, Helen & Emily in their shifts!

I sent each guest home with a framed Lilly Pulitzer print that I thought suited their personality.

Big hit!

Bringing back pink mini carnations in my 1960s Fitz & Floyd planter!

The perfect hostess gift from Katie!

Putting my hobnail milk jars to good use!

I hope you enjoyed Shifting Into Spring with me!!
xoxo

February in an {Instagram}

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 02:06:00 +0000

For your enjoyment, a few pictures from the prettiest month of the year!

I took adorable anniversary pictures for my sweet friends, Katie & Jeremy.

Their hua Lilly was pretty adorable, too.

A biography of Zelda Fitzgerlad, Diet Coke & English Garden Roses.

These are a few of my favorite things.

A naughty gift for our girls' only White Elephant Valentine's Day Party

Katie's gorg bar cart (& lipstick art!)

For a girl who has never painted my own nails, I sure do own a lot of $24 nail polishes!

Camel & Red was my go-to color combination for February. Love it.

Naturally, no month is complete without a blowout!

Pancakes on Shrove Tuesday

Valentine from Helen

Obviously I had to dress up the dogs on Valentine's Day...

... and have a little something sweet!

Not having a boyfriend does not equal not having a Valentine!

{I'm obsessed with this wrapping paper with gold foil hearts.}

J'adore les souffles.

Goodies for the kids at church!

Lilly wall art

Valentine Presents!

Then, on February 16, I added a stamp to my passport and visited a new continent!

Peru was everything I dreamed it would be... & more.

I didn't pass up macarons at the Miami airport.

Nor did I pass up two pairs of Kate Spade Keds.

Polka Dots & Gingham? Come on.

Can we all just agree it was a pretty, pretty month?

xoxo

Diary of a MOH, Part II: The Vendors

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 02:16:00 +0000

Perhaps my biggest struggle in planning the shower was finding an invitation that I loved.

I definitely wanted something citrus-hued, but not too dominant of a print.

I searched high & low, to no avail. I didn't give up, though!

I ultimately found these "Fresh Romance" invitations from Wedding Paper Divas that I just loved!

(Because I'm the pickiest person alive, I did have them change the text box below from brown to green, though!)

I also elected to purchase matching response cards because it added an extra element of elegance to the event...

and was an easy way to track RSVPs!

When I found these lemon recipe cards by Rifle Paper Co., I knew they had to be mine!

I'm going to ask all the attendees to fill one out & assemble a little recipe book for Lauren.

I ordered two burlap banners from Before You Say I Do, a seller on Etsy.

One said "Mrs." for the back of Lauren's chair, & one said "Gifts" for the gift table, of course.

I added a few yellow & white striped grosgrain ribbon bows, and they looked absolutely perfect!

For the placecards, I wanted to find a beautiful calligrapher.

I hired Brianne from Brown Fox Calligraphy, & I was oh-so-pleased with her work!

I requested white tented cards with gold writing in the "Cellar" font.

While it was an extra expense, it added such a pretty touch to each place setting!

For florals, I hired my friend Angie from Posh Floral Designs here in Dallas.

I sent her three inspiration pictures from my secret Pinterest board for Lauren's Bridal Shower,

& Angie created the lemon topiary & table runner.

I purchased the four yellow vases from Home Goods & put together those arrangements!

I'm of the personal opinion that edible party favors are the best way to go at a bridal shower or baby shower.

Instead of giving them a little trinket that either gets donated or regifted in the future,

I'm an advocate for a gift that will be gone (eaten!) within a day or two!

I asked my highschool friend, Sarah, who owns a home bakery business called "Sugars" to make eight dozen cakeballs to gift as the party favor.

Each guest received four cakeballs: Red Velvet, Strawberry, Funfetti and Lemon!

I put them in a sweet little box tied with the coordinating yellow ribbon.

My dear friend Helen made these gorgeous "Let Them Eat Cake" tags; I just LOVE them!

I rented the yellow napkins from La Tavola & tied them like bow ties. I LOVED the look.

From BHLDN, I purchased two Milk Glass Hobnail Jars that are perfect for... everything.

From floral arrangements to housing striped straws, I guarantee you I'll use them at party after party to come!

I'm the biggest sucker ever for letterpress. Seriously, I die for paper products.

Surely, I needed these "Advice For the Newlyweds" cards by Sugar Paper via BHLDN, right?

The guests filled these out at the party, & I collected their responses for Lauren to take home at the end of the party.

I'm also of the opinion that the bride needs a special chair while she's opening her gifts.

One of the items I pinned on my shower inspiration board was a peacock chair.

My darling Katie let me borrow hers for the day, & it, along with the Geronimo balloons, made the perfect gift-opening vignette!

Invitations and Response Cards by Wedding Paper Divas

Lemon Recipe Cards by Rifle Paper Co.

Burlap Banners by Before You Say I Do

Calligraphy by Brown Fox Calligraphy

Florals by Posh Floral Designs and moi

Cakeballs by Sarah Huggins of Sugars Bakery

Milk Glass Hobnail Jars & "Advice for the Newlyweds" cards by BHLDN

Napkins from La Tavola

More to come...!

Diary of a MOH, Part I: Lauren's Bridal Shower {First Look}

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 04:26:00 +0000

Yesterday, I hosted a Bridal Shower for my best friend, Lauren, at The Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas.

It was as beautiful & as lovely as I hoped it would be.

It was my favorite party I've ever hosted... as it should be for the friend of a lifetime!

I have tons of details to share with you (no detail went overlooked!) in the week ahead,

but for now, enjoy this first look with a few pictures that I snapped on my iPhone!

Lauren's Bridal Shower, Part I: The Invitations

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 05:47:00 +0000

As MOH, I have one very serious & critical duty: throwing the most incredible Bridal Shower ever.

So, for the past few months, I've been planning a party that will shower my BFF with tons of love before her Big Day.

I settled on a "Citrus" theme for the event.

How did I arrive at this decision? It makes me laugh when I think about it.

Lauren said the following sentence: "I really like the color yellow."

From that one sentence, I, being the crazy person I am, launched into this lemon obsession.

The venue I booked for the luncheon has gorgeous green damask wallpaper.

When you pair yellow & green, citrus is the obvious way to go, right?

It probably doesn't shock anyone to hear that I'm VERY particular about... everything.

I searched through book after book of invitations and was just about to commission a custom invite...

when I found the perfect invitation suite from Wedding Paper Divas.

It's fresh & clean & modern & chic.

That's the tone for the event & exactly what I wanted the invitation to convey, too.

As you can see, I also opted to include response cards.

In my opinion, this really simplifies things, and it also makes the invitation feel just a little more special.

This is probably the only detail I'll post before the shower, but I can't wait to do a full recap after the luncheon is over!

I can assure you of this... it's going to be fab!

xoxo

Boo

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 05:30:00 +0000

You probably already know that I love animals.

My family has three dogs: a chihuahua named Carraway, a Doberman named Jaxey and a Pyrenees mix named Lo.

The three dogs are all retired, along with my parents, to a life of leisure (& snacks) at our ranch in the Hill Country.

If you follow me on Instagram, then you already know this, too,

but for the past few months I've been fostering a pup named Boo.

Boo is a Pyrenees / St. Bernard mix, so he's basically a giant.

He weights anywhere from 125-145 pounds, depending on the time of year.

If you know much about fostering a pup, then you know it can be hard.

Boo & I had our fair share of challenges, but I can honestly say that I love this little prince very much.

Tonight, Boo was finally reunited with his mama... & it made my heart melt.

All is just as it should be now.

{Be sure to scroll down & watch the video at the end.}

All I know is that my life is fuller & richer because of the sweet animals God has put in my life,

and I am so very grateful for his endless goodness & mercies that are new every morning!

I sure will miss my Boo!

Alice in Wonderland Un-Book Club

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 17:13:00 +0000

There were only three weeks between January Book Club and February Book Club,

so I wanted to pick something short & sweet, something Valentiney without being overtly Valentine's themed.

The natural choice, for me at least, was to pick Alice In Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

My love for Alice goes way back. It all started when I played the Queen of Hearts in my school's production of the play.

{I even played croquet on stage with pink flamingo statues & sent dodgeballs flying into the audience at people!}

I was sick with the flu the week of Book Club, so I was WAY behind on my party prep,

but, as always, everything came together quite nicely in the end!

So, for February, we all came together for a very Un-Book Club!

Here are a few party details, according to my Instagram!

{Join the Insta party & follow me @SouthernVogue}

I found these invitations on Etsy & printed them at FedEx Office.

(The blank spaces are, of course, where I blurred out information like my address & phone number!)

I loved that they were pink and red, and featured the White Rabbit & the Queen of Hearts.

For decor, I bought some cheapo fake flowers from the Dollar Tree & glued googly eyes to them.

When in Wonderland, right?

Also from Dollar Tree?

I found these ghetto clock necklaces (a la Flava Flav) and tied a heart ribbon bow on them.

I hung these from the chandelier and thought they were a perfectly Mad Hatter addition!

Because who else besides me has a giant pink flamingo in the attic? Obviously he had to be included in Wonderland!

{In my middle school days, I was really into pink flamingos and made my grandparents buy this for me in Mexico and then drive it back across the border and up to Dallas. DIVA.}

White Rabbit gift tags served as the sweetest little napkin ring!

The tablescape! Hopefully it achieved my goal of some Wonderland / Valentine's Day hybrid!

For dessert, I served my favorite dessert of all time... cake & ice cream!

I pre-scooped the Blue Bell into individual mason jars and then placed them back in the freezer

so I wouldn't have to deal with the mess of scooping once my guests arrived!

Of course, there was a variety of pink sprinkles on the table for guests to embellish their dessert.

The Queen of Hearts loves her red roses, and I loved this gorgeous cake!

Central Market never does me wrong!

I hope you enjoyed this little Behind the Scenes of a very Un-Book Club!
xoxo

Add a Stamp!

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 08:06:00 +0000

On Southern Vogue, I typically avoid the topic of "New Year's Resolutions."

Sure, every year I take my own person inventory & see where my life needs... a little fine-tuning.

I avoid sharing them here because, well,

do you really care about my caffeine intake or my relationship with carbohydrates?

But the real truth of the matter is that every year I resolve to do one thing.

One thing that I never get tired of.

One passion that never burns out. One love that only grows stronger.

One goal that I care enough about to see it through, to carry it out.

So, what is it?

Every year I resolve to add a stamp to my passport.

To me, there is no more perfect resolution.

I can't begin to define or illustrate how traveling changes me.

It broadens my mind, it challenges my palate, it makes me question everything in the best possible way.

So today, this little Texas Tar Heel has travel on my mind.

For, you see, in two short weeks, I'll be traveling to Peru to serve at an orphanage for a couple of weeks.

I'm excited to meet these children & to love them & serve them well.

I'm excited to give them a break from their day-to-day lives & create something special for them.

So tonight, I'll go to sleep once more with dreams of far-away lands & the magic that awaits me there....

Now tell me, where do you dream of going next?

xoxo

A Midwinter Night's Dream, Continued - Wedding Video

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 23:04:00 +0000

Remember my darling friend Lindsey, who got married this past November?

(I blogged about her insanely fun Bachelorette Party here, here & here,

and then blogged about her perfect & incredible wedding here!)

Well, y'all are in for a real treat today because you get to see the video of the wedding!

It was just featured on the Southern Weddings' Magazine blog, & I'm so excited to share it here!

So, allow yourself 5 minutes and 55 seconds for this Midwinter Nights' Dream...

you won't be disappointed!

PS-- I may or may not have watched this five times.

2013 - The Year of the Bridesmaid!

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 03:08:00 +0000

Back in December, I told y'all that I was literally over-the-moon that Lauren asked me to be her MOH.

Well, y'all, I'm calling 2013 the "Year of the Bridesmaid" because my college Roomie, Ashley,

asked me to be a bridesmaid in her September wedding in North Carolina.

I bubbled up with tears when I received her note because

I feel so incredibly blessed that God gave me such wonderful friends.

And... No one loves being a bridesmaid more than me!

I met Ashley, who was in my pledge class, on Bid Day in 2006, & adored her immediately!

ABP & I lived together in the Tri Delt house during our senior year at Carolina,

& it was so. much. fun!

Ashley is responsible for my love of a monogram.

She taught me the meaning of a true Southern tailgate.

Whether we spent hours laying in our room watching episodes of Nip/Tuck or Sex & the City,

or consulting each other on outfit selections for "going out,"

or taking "Personal Defense" together to get our P.E. credit required to graduate,

or (according to the pictures below) ordering martinis,

we always laughed & had a blast.

She's the perfect little Southern belle, & I love her to the moon!

Ashley, I couldn't be more excited to stand by your side in September!

xoxo

A Colorful Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 03:11:00 +0000

Forget red & green alone.

I celebrate Christmas with as much color as the rest of my life.

While I'll always treasure my friends & family above anything else,

I sure got some sweet treats this past December!

Enjoy these snapshots of my colorful, and very Southern Vogue, Christmas!

Ringing In 2013 from Sea Island

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 05:01:00 +0000

I have a lifelong hatred of New Year's.

Surprising, right?

A girl who loves parties & glitter & champagne & party crowns HATES New Year's?!

I do. Or, well, I did. Until this year!

On December 29, Emily, Helen & I jetted to Sea Island, a fabulous resort in Georgia, to ring in 2013 in style.

Naturally, I packed the essentials, including these black & gold party crowns.

We may or may not have ordered a cookie cake to celebrate the weekend. Party snacks?

I could NOT get over this insane Spanish moss. I swear it came straight from the Garden of Eden.

We visited the sweetest little church I ever saw... Christ Church Frederica (Episcopal- shoutout!).

Full of majesty & splendor

Beneath the beautiful trees...

After hitting up the Cloister Collection to buy some (sale!) Lilly, we checked into our hotel, The Cloister.

Our gorgeous room! I loved the vaulted ceilings & hardwood floors & our dressing room.

Helen & I enjoyed sitting in The Lodge, admiring all the beautiful Christmas decorations.

The room of my dreams, though, was the solarium. I could stay in here forever!

Gorgeous hydrangeas in the Spanish Lounge

A table for cards in the Spanish Lounge

The Cloister main lobby was oh so beautiful

We soaked up the sun outside on the patio, a nice break from the chilly Texas weather

It was still Christmas, though, y'all!

Mother, can I have my wedding in this ballroom?

The G8 Summit was hosted at Sea Island in 2004. This is the Summit room.

Naturally, I sat in George W. Bush's seat :)

Ringing in 2013 with a strawberry daiquiri at the Beach Club!

The Chapel at Sea Island

Party preparations were in full-force on Monday!

The Georgian Room where we had a super fancy dinner.

(Truth be told, though, I would have preferred Chipotle over sick pate. I don't want foods in paste or gel form... gag!)

My perfect souvenir! An original watercolor of The Cloister

Emily brought these cute NYE cookies from Celebrity Bakery in Dallas for us!

A private tasting in the Library. (Again, I bet Chipotle is better!)

Party essentials.

My head & hair are far too big to wear a paper hat. I stick with the crown!

An incredible fireworks display over the water welcomed in the New Year in a perfect way.

Party time, y'all!

There was music & dancing & champagne everywhere! So fun.

My favorite meal of the trip?

New Year's Day brunch at the Beach Club, complete with

black-eyed peas (see, Mother!), chicken & waffles, mac & cheese... all the good stuff.

(NO PATE!)

I hope your 2013 is the best yet!

I had the best time ringing in the New Year with two of my favorite girls in the world!

Thanks, H & E, for a fab weekend!!

I'm already ready to return next NYE...

xoxo

2012 - Final Exam

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Sun, 06 Jan 2013 22:46:00 +0000

It seems appropriate, since it's 2013 and all, to review 2012 & offer myself a grade.

Do you happen to remember my resolutions?

Let's evaluate how well I did...

fill my home & closet with ever more polka dots. CHECK ✓

never leave the house without a spritz of perfume. CHECK ✓

learn to play bridge & start a bridge club. FAIL X

brunch with my girls & determine dallas' best eggs benedict. CHECK ✓

{Official Best Brunch in the Big D? Fearing's at the Dallas' Ritz. Hands-down.}

say yes more than i say no. CHECK ✓

learn more about wine so i don't just order the "house red." FAIL X

say yes to sprinkles. CHECK ✓

vote. CHECK ✓

host more parties. CHECK ✓ (duh)

wear more sequins. during the daytime. on weekdays. CHECK ✓

master the "sock bun" with my enormous mane. FAIL X

support more charities & fewer kardashians. CHECK ✓

{Me with my English as a Second Language students!}

start wearing the dresses i save for special occasions. today is a special occasion!FAIL X

plan a trip to rome. {TO BE CONTINUED...!}

So, I think I'll give myself a B-.
Fair?

Check back tomorrow for 2013's Resolutions!
xoxo

Third Annual Christmas Cupcake Exchange

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 04:50:00 +0000

Two years ago, I threw my first Christmas Party, and the Christmas Cupcake Exchange was born!

On Sunday afternoon, all my girlfriends came over to my house for the Third Annual Christmas Cupcake Exchange.

I'm pretty sure that this one topped 'em all, though!

I typically decide on the theme for the party a year in advance.

Why so early?

Because I buy the invitations on December 26 when they're on sale!

So, I bought these cuties a year ago and settled on a "tartan plaid & pearls" theme.

I thought they turned out totally darling.

I got the dining room all ready with different cake plates & three-tiered servers to display the cupcakes.

She had it on very good authority that Santa prefers champagne & cupcakes...

Y'all know the bar cart had to make an appearance.

I bought clear glass ornaments, filled them with faux pearls & tied a tartan bow on top.

Perfect & easy decor to scatter throughout the house.

All the drinks set out on the bar including wine & champagne.

Many glasses for all the different beverage options

I use the topiary placecard holders to display who-brought-what.

Napkins for the canapes set up on the counter buffet-style

I borrowed this cute cooler from Courtney for all the chilled beverages (and for the Blue Bell ice cream!)

Diet Coke, Coca-Cola, Pellegrino & Champ!

My cupcakes this year! Vanilla with Whipped Strawberry Icing

Space for the canapes

On the menu? Brisket sandwiches on jalapeno biscuits, fruit and a trio of drips (including my fav, smoked gouda!)

For dessert? Cupcakes, obv!

Baby Bundts by Amy!

Cakeballs from Miranda

Mini Cheesecakes from Elyse

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes from Katie

Chocolate cupcakes from Holly

Mini peppermint cupcakes from Cassie

Banana Cupcakes from Courtney

Makes a pretty sweet spread, don't you think?

While we had a few cocktails & snacked on all these tasty things, we had such a fine time telling stories & laughing.

I'm so thankful for all my friends that were able to come!

Lauren & Courtney

Cassie, Emily & Katie

Lorien & Miranda

Elyse, Holly & Amy

From left: Lorien, Katie, Cassie, Emily, Helen, Lauren, Courtney, Andrea, Elyse, Amy, Me (Behind the lens, APU!)

After we finished snacking, it was time to make a to-go box of sweets!

Everything looks so pretty all together!

For their party favors, I sent everyone home with Kate Spade nail stickers & tartan plaid tissues...

...as well as a set of #FavoriteThings pencils that I made!

I received SUCH precious hostess gifts...

cupcake ornaments, a champagne ornament, a cupcake nutcracker,

bracelets from C.Wonder, wine, napkins, and the cutest cheese stationery!

I love my friends & I love celebrating with them!

Pop. Fizz. Clink.

Is it bad that I'm already thinking about next year's Fourth Annual Christmas Cupcake Exchange!?!

xoxo

Bible Study Christmas Party

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 06:10:00 +0000

I lead a Bible Study on Tuesday evenings, and last night was our final meeting of the year.

Of course we decided to end on a high-note with a little Christmas Party at my house!

Several months ago, I picked up the cutest package of Christmas invitations at Helen's Swap Party.

I saved them for this party, & they were oh-so-cute!

Shockingly, I actually got on top of things and set the table over the weekend.

I'm particularly smitten with these boxwood topiaries that I tied a red & gold tartan ribbon around!

This pretty angel I bought at Market several months ago for a few dollars.

(I only buy brunette angels... ha!)

I used these pretty ornaments plates with a bright red charger underneath.

I have these darling little topiary placecards that I just adore!

For cocktails, I pulled out these vintage, 1980s lowballs from Neiman Marcus featuring an ice-skating moose!

...Topped with a silver swizzle stick, of course!

Menu for the Evening:

Broccoli Cheese Quiche

Smoked Gouda Pimento Cheese with Spicy Crackers

Hatch Green Chile Chicken Soup

Pasta Salad

Chocolate & Pecan Lace Cake

Pink Punch & Champagne

After dinner, we sat around the living room and finished our study of Ruth.

I can't tell you how blessed I am to have these girls in my life!

Of course, I couldn't let the girls leave without a little parting treat!

May the Lord bless you & keep you!

xoxo

Secret Santa Christmas Luncheon at Neiman's 2012

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 04:44:00 +0000

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year...

Let the Christmas Party Marathon begin!

If you've read Southern Vogue for any period of time, then you know that I love tradition.

I look forward to my favorite little traditions that pop up throughout the year... they seem to anchor the seasons.

Besides my own birthday, Christmas is my favorite holiday.

There are just so many traditions I love at Christmas.

You may recall last year's post about our Annual Secret Santa Christmas Luncheon at Neiman's.

Oh, it's just so magical!

Well, it was that time again!

On Saturday, I met the girls at the Zodiac Room at the flagship Neiman Marcus in downtown Dallas.

Their Christmas buffet simply cannot be topped. The menu is completely indulgent and over-the-top.

Oh, how I love a popover with strawberry butter!

My favorite entree item is probably the macaroni & cheese, but the butternut squash ravioli is a close second!

After we finished eating, it was time for our Secret Santa Gift Exchange.

The parters were assigned via Elfster, & we all remained quite tight-lipped about who had who.

So, it was particularly thrilling to find out who we all had!

Right before we started, we all went around and guessed who had us.

I just knew that Lorien had me.... and I was RIGHT!

(For me, being right is a present in and of itself, haha!)

Here is Katie with the tinsel headbands that Helen made for all of us!

Lorien, opening her gifts from sweet Haylee!

Miranda, with her gift from.... ME!

I gave her a pretty pink Kate Spade wallet. I sure hope she likes it!

Andrea, with her gift from Miranda!

It was the beautiful Oscar de la Renta handbag from the Target / Neiman's collaboration!

Cassie, with her gift from... Katie! A beautiful blue & white vase from Tiffay's!

Helen, with her gift from... Cassie! A piece of china for her collection!

(We also snacked on this sweets tray during the gift segment...)

Sadly I had to duck-out early to make it to work, so I didn't get a picture of Emily or Katie with their gifts.

I also missed the annual group photo in front of the Christmas trees downstairs.

I promise I was there, though!

Lorien gave me a gorgeous & glittery pink Lilly Pulitzer wristlet! So perfect & so me!

It was a wonderful luncheon with some of my favorite girls in the world!

I can hardly wait 'til we do it again next year!

xoxo

Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcakes

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 03:22:00 +0000

It's December, and there are sweets everywhere!

If you're looking to make a cute & healthy dessert, I have the treat for you:

Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcakes!

Surely by now, you own a dozen Mason Jars.

If you don't, what are you waiting for? Buy them! They cheap & so multi-functional!

Next up, grab some fresh strawberries.

Wash & Slice.

Buy the pre-made angel food cake at the grocery store. They're just as good as homemade!

Buy a container of Cool White Lite. Add sprinkles for whatever holiday or color theme.

Layer angel food cake on the bottom, strawberries in the middle, Cool Whip on top (with a few extra sprinkles)!

Stick them in the fridge until it's party time! Piece of cake. Literally.

They're the perfect, guilt-free treat anytime of the year!

Enjoy this party favorite!

xoxo

MOH, Y'all.

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 02:37:00 +0000

Isn't it sweet when two little girls,

who were babies when they "met" as their moms pushed them around in strollers,

who spent years pouring through wedding magazines before they even had driver's licenses,

who dreamed up what their future husbands would be like,

who promised they'd be each other's Maid of Honor,

somehow grow up,

and have driver's licenses,

and go to universities in different states,

and still remain best friends...

and then one day,

one of them actually does meet the love of her life,

and she asks the other to be her Maid of Honor.

Oh, how sweet it is to have a friend like that.... the friend of a lifetime.

I couldn't be more honored or privileged to stand by my best friend's side this June.

From now on, just call me MOH, y'all.

Oh, and yes, I'm already planning what will be the most fab shower of all time!

A Midwinter Night's Dream

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 05:21:00 +0000

Once upon a time,

in a land not so far away...

one of my best friends married the love of her life amongst friends, family & the trees.

Deep in the woods of east Texas, my darling Lindsey's family has a magical oasis called ke'Ohana.

It's the perfect slice of Hawaiian paradise about an hour away from the Big D.

No matter how many words I attempt to use, no description will ever do this paradise justice.

Just know that it's big & beautiful & magical & majestic.

Amongst the beauty of nature & the love of family & friends, sweet Lindsey married her Andrew.

It would have been a tremendous blessing simply to be invited,
so imagine how thrilled I was to stay at the lake for the entire weekend.

I arrived at the gates of Hawaii via Texas while luau music played & grabbed a map.

I followed the map's directions to proceed to the barn.
(** Apologies in advance for the mix of real pictures & iPhone pictures! **)

At the barn, I received a gorgeous luggage tag (as you know from the Bachelorette posts, L&A are world travelers!).

This compass was the logo of their wedding, as they both got a tattoo of this image together on an island several years ago.

(Please don't continue reading without understanding that L&A are the coolest people alive. Hands down.)

Since there are many different houses on the property, I opened up my luggage tag to reveal my rooming assignment.

KO'A Village Master Bedroom? I like the sound of that. Oh, and "Guest of Honor," too!

Lindsey & I share a love of words, and Oh! how I loved reading the selections she included during the wedding weekend!

My bedroom for the weekend! Heaven.

Have I mentioned my love of a gift bag?

It's almost impossible to believe we're in Texas.

KO'A Village a.k.a "The Fishing Cabin" is totally beyond.

Look at this gorgeous view from our room.

This little angel puff of fur, Bailey, greeted us.

Naturally, I couldn't resist Instagramming her!

Bonjour, pup!

After getting settled in, I was a little too excited to open this bag of treats.

A schedule for the weekend, luggage tag and the invitation itself!

Tote + Custom T-Shirt = Trademark Lindsey

LOVE IT.

The music lovers included a CD of songs important to them and played during the wedding.

What Texas wedding is complete with a Texas-shaped tequila in the gift bag?

Also included? Tortilla Chips & Habanero Salsa, a staple at any Austin meal!

I enjoyed some time on the porch Friday night before heading to the rehearsal dinner.

The chefs from Komali came for the weekend, and I enjoyed the best Mexican food of my life at the Rehearsal Dinner.

Just swingin'.

It was already dark outside by that time so I don't have pictures, but it was just pure magic.

Stories of Lindsey & Andrew, tears, love, prickly pear margaritas in mason jars, an official "cousin vote" approving Andrew into the family, guacamole for days & the most emotional & darling slide show of these two beautiful people & their even more beautiful love story...

Oh, if all our stories could be this sweet!

I stayed up late and then headed back to dream sweet dreams in a California king. Life is good.

The next day we had breakfast tacos at the Canoe Club before exploring their property.

No, really, we're still in Texas...

This is the Fishing Cabin from afar!

What's more charming than a wedding in the woods?

Lindsey's dad even built this beautiful Chapel on the property, where Lindsey's cousin got married a few years ago.

Chasin' waterfalls, y'all.

Care for a stroll on the beach?

(Texas)

The Lord of the Manor and the other love of Lindsey's Life... Sir Toby.

(Late Friday night I found Toby had gotten into the popcorn balls at the cabin and had quite the tummy ache. I think he was nervous about the wedding.)

Saturday afternoon, after a morning of breakfast tacos, Instagraming & exploring, it was time.

A line of golf cart drivers waited to take us to the ceremony site.

Y'all, prepare yourselves.

There was a pre-ceremony cocktail hour where I saw many old friends.

I may or may not have started drinking at 3 p.m. with a spiked iced tea (served via mason jar, natch).

WEDDING TIME!

Here is Linda, the MOH. Could she be ANY more gorgeous?!

Toby was escorted down the aisle as well by an official "Toby Bearer."

No bridesmaids' dresses will EVER top these bridesmaids' dresses.

Each one was floor length & intricate & unique & the perfect juxtaposition to being barefooted.

I really felt like I was in a A Midwinter's Night Dream.

Lindsey's coustin Patrick & his wife Shannon

Lindsey's beautiful cousin Kristen

Johnny & Kristen

The Best Man, Craig, & Lindsey's Sis / MOH, Heather!!!!!

THIS DRESS! HER HAIR! THE BOUQUET!!!!!!!!!!

(Obsessed with Heather)

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I burst into tears the moment I saw Lindsey & her dad.

She walked out of a dream. Oh my goodness, she looked perfect.

(I still get teary even thinking about it.)

I got so teary & emotional that I pretty much couldn't take pictures. I wanted to soak it all in.

Lindsey, you were a truly breathtaking bride.

Lindsey's bro & Andrew's sis

What a sweet moment.

We all laughed & cried. We love Lindsey & Andrew.

L&A's BFFs Jon & Haley

(Keep noting these INSANE bridesmaids' dresses...)(Obsessed.)

I seriously couldn't focus the camera I was so excited!

I gathered myself together & giddily walked to the barn.

More cocktails awaited. I voted for a margarita to start the night.

Guest Book

Y'all. How pretty is Lindsey!? I mean, I took a picture of her picture!

The spread inside!

Every detail was incredible. From chargers made of wood from the early 1900s to the most lush florals I've ever seen,

it was a spot-on reflection of the bride & groom.

That's what I loved the most. It was SO THEM.

Around the barn, there were blown up pictures of the love stories that preceded L&A's love story. So sweet.

Lindsey's Grandparents!

Lindsey's Parents, Jon & Linda.

The cutest ever.

Andrew's Parents, Nan & Stu

There were a lot of people there, so we didn't get a picture with the bride...

so we took pictures with her picture!

We love you Linds!!

There was amazing food at the wedding... chefs were rolling fresh sushi, there was a pasta bar, there was a Mediterranean feast.... nom.

And, of course, there was cake!

And more cake!

We ate & drank, toasted & talked, laughed & cried sweet happy tears.

Oh, it was magical.

Lindsey & Andrew, I couldn't love y'all more.

Thank you for letting me be a part of your wedding.

It was the perfect Midwinter Night's Dream. I'll cherish those memories forever!

So they sailed away on a winter's day... with fate as malleable as clay...

xoxo

Until we meet again...

Laura's Tea Party Baby Showerette

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 21:49:00 +0000

On Tuesday evenings, I lead a Women's Bible Study.

It has been such a joy & treat in my life, and I love the girls in the group so very much.

In May, we hosted a "Onesie Showerette" for Holly (on the right) before she welcomed her first baby, Jonah.

Well, it was time to celebrate again, because Laura (middle) is about to have her baby boy next week!

Our group decided to host a "Tea Party Showerette" to celebrate Laura & her Baby Boy!

Charlotte hosted the shower at her parents' lovely home, and we all brought the food.

The shower was from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., which is the perfect length in my opinion.

When I arrived at Charlotte's home, everything looked so perfect & beautiful. I knew it would be a fabulous morning.

The table was set with pretty blue & white china in honor of Laura's Baby Boy!

Flowers are such an important part of any tablescape, & I particularly loved the little sprig in each napkin ring.

All set & ready to go!

I brought my favorite thumbprint cookies in fall colors, along with the main dessert.

Katherine brought these cute flower-shaped chicken salad tea sandwiches. They were delish!

Elyse served both cucumber & pimento cheese tea sandwiches. You can't have a tea without these!

Many "seconds" were had. You can see why!

Charlotte, Katherine & Amy

Elyse, Laura the Guest of Honor (who's welcoming her baby boy next week!) & Holly

The spread!

Holly made this strawberry & avocado spinach salad with homemade dressing.

It was so fresh & healthy & tasty!

For dessert, I decided to make individual strawberry shortcakes in mason jars!

I think they turned out darling!

Stawberry Salad & Strawberry Shortcake!

Now that's quite the potluck tea party, don't you agree?

From the left... Elyse, Holly, Laura, Charlotte, Katherine, Amy & Me (behind the lens!)

In addition to hot tea, Charlotte also made Almond Tea-- so yum!

Guess who wanted to be a part of the party?

Piper!

My little strawberry shortcakes

Amy, in her fabulous hat, enjoying dessert!

Trading pics with the Momma!

Naturally, I had to throw in a few sprinkles.

After we finished eating, it was time to open gifts!

Laura received some lovely things. Now we just need that precious Baby Boy to get here!

My fellow single girl, Amy, asked about these teething rings, "Are those bracelets?"

LOVE IT.

Oh, Laura, how much we love you!

May God guard your heart & mind in the knowledge and love of Christ,

as well as give you a peace which passes understanding,

as you bring this darling Baby Boy into the world.

We can't wait to meet him!

xoxo

Election Night Party

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 05:36:00 +0000

I'm still mourning the results of Tuesday's election.

Even though my candidate lost, he didn't go down without a fight.

Mitt was, in his true fashion, as classy as ever.

On Tuesday night, Helen invited the conservative crew over to watch it all go down in style.

It should come as no surprise that Helen's "Red State Condo" was perfectly put together!

I had a grown-up (champagne) Shirley Temple in my Red 7-Eleven Cup, as we predicted how Mitt could reach 270!

Elephants everywhere!

In addition to serving Mitt's favorite meal of meatloaf, macaroni & cheese and cauliflower (which was SO delicious),

there was a plethora of yummy sweets!

Red State Cupcakes, Brownies, Peppermint Ice Cream Pie, & Doughnuts!

Once Fox News called Ohio for the President, I grabbed to-go box so that I could console myself with sweets!

Even though the election didn't turn out as I hoped, I had a fabulous evening with my friends.

Helen is the ultimate hostess, & I loved every little detail!

Here is the prayer I prayed on Tuesday, as I reminded myself that I must put my trust in Christ alone!

Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly Yours, utterly dedicated unto You; and then use us, we pray, as You will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

November Book Club - Breakfast at Tiffany's

noreply@blogger.com (MMS) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 02:13:00 +0000

On Friday evening, I got together with the girls for our monthly Book Club.

Kira was the host this month, & she selected Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote.

(I think you know where this is headed! Goodness, we love a theme!)

Naturally, I couldn't resist wrapping Kira's hostess gift in Tiffany blue wrapper paper & a white bow!

That's Kira on the left, with Katie on the right.

Kira just moved into the CUTEST new house. So jelly.

The tablescape was just perfect.

Kira filled Tiffany & Co. boxes with English Garden Roses & Hydrangeas,

& she scattered pearls all around the table.

Pretty little party favors

For the evening's menu, Kira served breakfast of course!

We started with a mimosa bar. More than a few mimosas were consumed!

Champagne, anyone?

Breakfast time!

For her menu, Kira served a delicious egg casserole, fruit salad, monkey bread & brown-sugar coated bacon tied in a bow!

It was a feast.

At one point, in the middle of an unrelated conversation, Katie & I both blurted out "Man that bacon was good."

Jinx, buy me a Coke?

Nothing to inspire good conversation & ridiculous stories like champagne!

Don't ask me to tell you my favorite thing. It was all SO good!

Kira, is a Tiffany blue gingham shirt, holding a perfect Tiffany blue favor.

She's the cutest!

What was inside you ask? This gorgeous bow box!

I am so blessed & thankful to have such wonderful friends in my life,

including these girls who make me laugh & share my affection for making anything a party.

My life is rich & full, and I thank God every day!

Kira, you're the perfect hostess, & I aspire to be as perfectly put together as you always are!

Thanks for hosting such an elegant, lovely evening! It was divine!

xoxo