{long distance loving}

friday's fancies #130.

2013-05-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

Happy holiday weekend, friends! With Memorial Day weekend upon us, summer is finally in reach. It should be no surprise that this week's Friday's Fancies is devoted to this summery celebration. {cv} and I will be making the trip to San Antonio, Texas tomorrow for the wedding of our dear friends, {jd} and {gz}. If money were no object, I'd assemble this outfit to tour the Alamo and stroll the Riverwalk!

J.Crew Multistripe Pullover + Ray-Ban Classic Wayfarer 50mm Sunglasses

Bauble Bar Mini Block Monogram Necklace + Loren Hope Sunburst Studs

Tory Burch Isabella Shorts + Madewell Embossed Crossbody Bag

Ivanka Trump Bray Sandals

Whether you blogged about your dreamy Memorial Day outfit or fashion in general, your post is welcome for Friday's Fancies! Add your link below using your blog name as the title. It's easy peasy! The themes are just a suggestion, so don't feel tied down. Click here to join the mailing list and get all the deets in your inbox every Monday :) You'll feel right at home with Friday's Fancies--the loyal linkers are some of the friendliest {and most amazing} bloggers you'll encounter in the blogosphere!

I can't wait to see some last-minute packing inspiration from all of you! Thank you again for linking up in the midst of the holiday weekend craziness :) Be sure to follow along with {cv} and I on our Southern adventures over the next week via Instagram. Wherever you're spending your Memorial Day weekend, I hope it is safe and relaxing! Lots of love! xoxo {av}

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#sunsavvy.

2013-05-22T07:30:00.000-04:00

In honor of National Skin Cancer Awareness month, Danielle and I thought it was only appropriate to offer a sun savvy reminder as we approach the sunny summer months. When I shared my skin story two years ago, I was anxious to do it. Today, I stand firm on my choice to share my experience with melanoma in the hopes that someone else can avoid this scary ride.

When Danielle and I concocted the idea of sun savvy, we did so because knew our generation was at risk. With images all around us portraying tans as beautiful, being the pale one isn't easy. I still miss feeling tan, though I no longer miss looking tan. Though my family and friends never escape my sun savvy PSAs, I do quietly wish I could tell super tanned strangers the risk they're taking. Thankfully, this blog {and this recent article in Cosmo!} give me the chance to share my story with people who care to listen.

Being sun savvy isn't hard. In fact, it is one of the easiest adjustments you could make to your daily beauty routine. Adding sunscreen to your morning routine adds all of 30 seconds to your day. These fabulous bronzers and self tanners can also help you achieve the perfect faux glow--without suffering from the sun's harmful rays. Years from now, you'll be so grateful you took that time. In the five years since I stopped tanning, I can already tell a difference in the health of my skin. It doesn't take away the years of damage I did to my skin, but it will absolutely make a difference in my future health.

I count my blessings every day I took the time to go to a dermatologist five years ago. I shudder to think what my life might look like if I hadn't. If you have any spots you're questioning, call a dermatologist today. The peace of mind in knowing you're safe is more than worth it.

How are you being extra sun savvy this year? Share how on twitter with the hashtag #sunsavvy--or with a comment below! Danielle and I can't wait to see what you're doing to stay #sunsavvy. xoxo {av}

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my 28th birthday wishlist.

2013-05-21T07:30:00.000-04:00

In just 8 short days, I will join the world of 28-year-olds. Next year may mark my "golden" birthday, but my 28th birthday list is pretty golden. From gilded binders to custom sandals, I clearly have metallics on the brain. These six goodies made my list this year, though unlimited Rent The Runway rentals wouldn't be too shabby either. Truth be told, I get more optimistic about 28 every time I see this list...

Russell + Hazel Signature Three-Ring Binder + Kate Spade Fragment Cluster Stud Earrings
Michael Kors Large Runway Gold Bracelet Watch + Jack Rogers Custom Sandals
Nikon COOLPIX S01 Camera + Virginia Johnson for J.Crew Tote

Birthday or no birthday: what is on the top of your current wish list?
For now, I'm going to relish every day of 27 ;) xoxo {av}

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attempting at-home macarons.

2013-05-20T07:30:00.000-04:00

I may not be the world's greatest cook, but I do love to bake. For years, I've wanted to try my hand at macarons, so when a class on the subject popped up, I registered immediately! In the three hours I spent in the lab kitchen at Johnson & Wales, I quickly learned I wouldn't master these treats in my first attempt. I did pick up a thing or two which might spare you some frustration if you attempt them at home!

It isn't any surprise, but baking requires a great deal of precision. Making macarons is no different. Nailing the temperatures will determine whether your macarons rise or fall. Our instructor gave a simple formula for success, which you can see on the whiteboard below. Different types of macarons may require slightly different temperature readings, but as a whole, sticking to these numbers will ensure your success on the quest for great macarons.

With an enormous amount of devices and bowls, space is absolutely key when making macarons at home. Being a good juggler might also help you have success with macarons. {I'm only slightly kidding!} You'll be moving at a mile a minute and having everything in close reach is so important!

Don't have a big kitchen? Don't fret! You can make due, but you will need to think through your process first. Regardless of your counter space, I wouldn't recommend making macarons without first measuring out your ingredients and having all your tools at the ready.

Above all, patience is an absolute must. You may have to throw out batches {I did!}, but with each "failed" batch, you'll learn more about how to nail them with your next attempt. Speaking of patience: making macarons requires aged egg yolks, so plan accordingly. If you want to make these sweet treats, doing them last-minute isn't really an option.

Though I admired the cake decorating projects at my local 4-H fair, I never participated in the art, so when it came to actually piping out the macarons, my nerves were high. The chef made it seem so easy {as evidenced below}, but it took me piping out nearly 80 of them before I really felt like I had the swing of it. As the old adage goes, practice makes perfect. Your first few of macarons may not look like they were made at Ladurée, but that's ok. They'll still taste great ;)

Remember how I said patience was an absolute must? I repeat: patience is an absolute must. Before you can put them in the oven, you need to let them rest for sixty minutes or so. After that, you'll pop them in the oven. I promise that you'll want to eat these little guys without the filling when you see their cute tops rise in the oven. Hang tight though--letting the macaron shells rest for at least 20 minutes before putting on any filling is a non-negotiable.

While my first set of macarons may not look like those you buy in stores, I was pretty darn proud of how they tasted. See those circles? When piping out the macarons, it helps to have a guide for how large to make your sweet circles. You can do this by simply tracing a small circular item with a pencil and then flipping your parchment paper before piping your macarons. Easy peasy! It helps with the uniformity of size and shape.

Download a copy of the vanilla bean macaron and salted caramel filling recipes here!

Making macarons may be tedious, but the end result is entirely worth it. If you take the time to have all your ingredients and utensils ready, you'll save a boatload of frustration later. While I haven't attempted them at home just yet, I have big plans for future bridal and baby showers ;)

If you've made macarons at home, what other advice would you give?
Have a fantastic Monday--and treat yourself to something today! You deserve it! xoxo {av}

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friday's fancies #129.

2013-05-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Hello friends! I'm thrilled to kick off this Friday with a striped round of Friday's Fancies! As a lover of stripes, you won't find me complaining one bit. I'm positively pining over this striped number from Lilly Pulitzer--and if my shopping budget was limitless, I would style it just like this!

find them here:

Lilly Pulitzer Posey Dress // J.Crew Sunflower Necklace in White

Tory Burch Amalie Clutch in Rain // Marc Jacobs Henry Dinky Gold Watch

Jack Rogers Hamptons Mid Wedge in Platinum

Did you blog about fashion this week? If so, please feel free to add your link below! You don't have to follow the theme--they are only suggestions to get your creative juices flowing :) Want to be a part of the Friday's Fancies family? It's easy! Click here to join the mailing list and you'll get the themes in your inbox every Monday. The ladies of this link-up will make you feel right at home!

As always, lots of love and gratitude to the always fabulous #FridaysFancies faithful--you're the best!
I'm bound for the Hoosier State tonight--and I can't wait. I haven't been home since Christmas, so it's about time ;) You can follow along with this weekend's celebrations on Instagram. I'll be back in action
with a sweet surprise for you on Monday. Have a happy + safe weekend! xoxo {av}

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P.S. Don't miss my guest posts for two of my favorite Chicago bloggers, cornflake dreams + ashley nicole catherine!

inspired by lilacs.

2013-05-16T07:30:00.000-04:00

A few towns over from {cv}'s hometown, you'll find Rochester, New Hampshire. This little spot on the map calls itself the Lilac City, though it might stir up a debate with Spokane, Washington. Without fail, I can count on seeing gorgeous lilacs when we visit the Seacoast ever May. During our trip to see {cv}'s family this past weekend, I snapped this instagram after cutting down a few small sprigs. I only wish I could magically have a bouquet of lilacs all year round, but I digress...

This weekend's lilacs reminded me just how much I adore this light purple hue.
The nail polish and studs would be good gateway goods to this lovely shade, don't you think?
If I had an unlimited budget, I might invest in a few more of these lilac beauties...

find them here:
Gorjana Bleecker Bloom Tote
Trish McEvoy Effortless Eyes Wet & Dry Eye Shadow in Lilac
Essie Wedding Collection 2013 Nail Polish in Meet Me At The Altar
Bobbi Brown Lilac Rose Collection Brightening Lip Gloss in Pink Lilac
Kate Spade Tudor City Stacy Wallet + Small Square Studs
Superga Linen Sneakers in Lilac

What hue is catching your eye this spring? Am I the only one in the lilac camp or are you there with me?
I'll see you all for a round of striped Friday's Fancies tomorrow! Happy Thursday! xoxo {av}

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weekend tunes.

2013-05-14T07:30:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, {cv} and I made the familiar two-hour drive from Maine to Rhode Island. The sunny afternoon light, paired with the perfect company and some great tunes, came together to form an amazing ride. This wasn't our exact playlist, but these tunes are in my current rotation...

Sixty minutes of easy tunes like these have me wishing for the weekend, even though it's only Tuesday. Sometimes, the best way to make it to Friday is to break out a playlist like this one--don't you agree?

Do you have a favorite song for a lazy afternoon? xoxo {av}

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cool coasters.

2013-05-13T07:30:00.000-04:00

Today is my sweet mother {cnn}'s birthday, so I'm devoting this post to her savvy hostess skills! :) One thing I learned very early on was the importance of using coasters--to save our furniture and to bring some extra pizzazz to the party. In advance of the summer party season, I devoted my monthly Houzz board to a few cool coasters. Here are a few of my favorites...

first row: Sugar Paper Los Angeles Cheers Letterpress Coaster + Crate & Barrel PVC Black Coaster + Jonathan Adler Trousdale Coaster // second row: Kate Spade Silver Street Coaster + CB2 Cocktail Ring Stained Coaster + Rifle Paper Company Canine Coaster // third row: Gamago 45 Record Coaster + Dabney Lee Stationery Personalized Coaster + Williams-Sonoma Natural Geode Coaster // fourth row: Crate & Barrel Felix Yellow Coaster + Sugar Paper Los Angeles Polka Dot Letterpress Coaster + Rae Dunn by Magenta Take Note Chalkboard Coaster

Do you change out your coasters for company? Or do you keep the same ones in rotation all the time?

Endless birthday wishes to my biggest fan--I love you, {cnn}! Have a marvelous Monday everyone!
xoxo {av}

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friday's fancies #128.

2013-05-10T00:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday! Who can argue with a week of Friday's Fancies devoted to weekend wear?
I could see this easy, breezy outfit becoming my weekend uniform! Take a peek...

J.Crew Linen Baseball Sweater + Citizens of Humanity Dani Crop in Wedgewood

Le Specs Halfmoon Magic Sunglasses + Kate Spade Fragment Cluster Studs

C.Wonder Printed Graphic Link Canvas Tote + Sperry Top-Sider A/O 2 Eye in Gold Metallic {$25 off!}

Did you blog about fashion this week? If so, your post is welcome for Friday's Fancies! The themes are only suggestions to get your creative juices flowing. Want to get those themes in your inbox? Click here to sign up for the weekly mailing list! The loyal ladies of #FridaysFancies will make you feel right at home here. By joining in Friday's Fancies, you're joining in one of the best virtual families around...

What is the one essential piece of your own"weekend uniform"? Those shiny Top-Siders are mine! I cannot wait to see what easy weekend wear you have up your sleeve. Many thanks for joining in the Friday's Fancies fun this week--your posts never cease to amaze or inspire me! A very happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there, especially my own :) xoxo {av}

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how to build a gallery wall.

2013-05-09T07:30:00.000-04:00

We may not have a perfectly laid-out gallery wall, but I love it. Scenes from our life in DC and memories of wonderful vacations grace this space. It hold a few prints from my days as a 13-year-old art connoisseur on my European People to People adventure. My gorgeous grandparents even make an appearance. Best of all, it features the canvas of the gift {cv} and I serendipitously gave to one another. Did I measure out the wall before I hung each piece? No. Does it matter? Not a bit.

Truth be told, my gallery goodness pinterest board contains more than a few examples of perfectly aligned portrait walls. Does this look good? Yes. Is it attainable? Certainly. Is this the vision I've had in our current apartment? No. Some of the frames may be cock-eyed and other frames may not match, but I don't care.
I feel at home the minute I see this wall. Isn't that the point?

Here's my advice on how to build a {happy} gallery wall: save little pieces of your life along the way. Frame them. Those little moments are the ones you'll want to remember. While a beautifully assembled gallery wall is worth pinning, I wouldn't trade the one I pass each and every day.

If you have a gallery wall, what makes yours unique? xoxo {av}

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the white top.

2013-05-07T07:30:00.000-04:00

As simple as it seems, I love pairing a simple white top with a pair of great blue jeans or colorful shorts. This post may be lacking in color, but it contains the one item which is always on my shopping list: a functional white top. Dress it up or down, a white top is an easy investment in the depth of your wardrobe. As an item which transcends all seasons, it is hard to argue with a white top. Consider it a blank canvas for a fabulous outfit! All of the tops below clock below $75, but most are in the $30-$40 range. Enjoy!

top row: Topshop Floral Lace Sleeveless Top + Mango Scoop-Back Top + Oasis Elizabeth Top {all under $45}

second row: Reiss Kat Novelty Neckline Top {42% off} + Mossimo Juniors V-Neck Tee {only $8!}

bottom row: Splendid Vintage-Whisper Cotton Jersey Top + James Perse Cotton-Jersey Top + French Connection Lady Solitude Top {50% off}

What one item is always on your shopping list? xoxo {av}

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psst: Do you like my new pin it button?! I'm so excited to finally have one installed! Feel free to pin away!

be in love.

2013-05-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

Hello again! I know you've seen the quote below a million times before, but for some reason, I couldn't get it out of my head this weekend. Be in love with your life. Every minute of it. Living out this quote isn't always an easy task, but after years of trying, I recently decided to be in love with my life as it is today.

When {cv} and I were long distance, I spent the time between visits living toward the next one. The inevitable heartache with our good-byes physically hurt. Once we were finally in the same place in Rhode Island, I began thinking ahead to the day we would finally leave the Ocean State. When it became clear that Providence wasn't a short stop on our journey, it hit me that I couldn't keep living life from event to event or place to place. I needed to be grateful for the life I was living at that moment because it most certainly a gift.

The reality is that we're only blessed with so much time on this earth, so wishing it away is wasting time. {Crazy thought, right?} When I finally chose to be in love with what I had, everything finally felt like enough. It may seem cheesy, but it is the absolute truth. I get excited for life's curve balls--because as {cv} and I have discovered--those crazy turns often bring the best results.

How are you seeking peace with the life you're living today? xoxo {av}

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friday's fancies #127.

2013-05-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

A very happy Friday to you! As a May baby, I am always happy to see the calendar turn to my favorite month :) I thought it was only appropriate to ring in this month with a nod to May flowers. Since I grew up 60 minutes from Louisville, I had to give my floral-inspired outfit an extra Kentucky Derby twist. I would absolutely love to sport this outfit {complete with an enormous hat!} to a fiesta at Churchill Downs...

find them here: Tibi Silk-Crepe Top

Kate Spade Marquee Short Necklace

Lilly Pulitzer Mimosa Skirt in Fiesta Pink Pinwheel Organza

Christopher Kon Ellena Woven Clutch

Sperry Top-Sider Women's Pareo Wrap with Pom-Pom Trim

KORS Michael Kors Vivian Wedges

Want to join in all the Friday's Fancies fun? It's simple! If you blogged about fashion this week, you're in! You do not need to follow the theme to participate--the themes are simply suggestions to get your creative juices going. Click here to join our mailing list for more info every Monday! Our little #FridaysFancies family will welcome you with open arms :)

How are you weaving florals into your spring rotation? Do you go for big + bold or soft + understated?

Many, many thanks to those of you linking up today! In the midst of all of our crazy schedules, it means the world that you keep Friday's Fancies in your blog plans. Have a happy weekend celebrating the Derby and Cinco de Mayo :) Be safe--and I'll see you Monday! xoxo {av}

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twinkle toes.

2013-05-02T07:30:00.000-04:00

Later this month, {cv} and I will be hitting the wedding circuit hard: we have three weddings in the span of four weeks! I want to get a pair of cute strappy sandals--without having to ditch the twinkle toes halfway through the evening. Here are eight different options which caught my eye...which is your favorite?

1) J.Crew Metallic Leather High-Heel Sandals // 2) Ivanka Trump Anita Gold Sandals

3) Tahari Bella Sandals // 4) Badgley Mischka Vivian III Sandals

5) Kate Spade Raven Strappy Metallic Leather Platform Sandals // 6) Michael Antonio Lovina Sandals

7) Badgley Mischka Ava II Sandals // 8) Diane von Furstenberg Jujette Sandals

Comfort is my biggest requirement, but I would be willing to invest in the right pair. I can't wait to hear which pair is your favorite--or where else you'd send me for great dancing shoes! xoxo {av}

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like before you pin.

2013-04-30T07:30:00.000-04:00

Hello again--and happy Tuesday! Some people may be tired of my Pinterest protection campaign, but it isn't ending any day soon. I view Pinterest as the ultimate inspiration central--and I don't want it to go anywhere. Last September, I shared why it was absolutely vital to clean up our Pinterest boards. In the months since that post, I have been constantly seeking a way to better manage my boards on a daily basis. I decided the "like" feature of Pinterest was my best option to capture things I liked {literally}. Many people forget about the power of the "like", so read on to see how it could help you get the most out of Pinterest!

There was a great deal of discussion about the "like" feature in one of the sessions I attended at Blog Better Boston this weekend, led Isra of The Frugalette. She and I both agreed that liking is the only thing we do when using Pinterest on our phones. It's an easy way to bookmark the things which catch your eye on the go--without committing to pinning. When pinning on the go, you risk your pin leading to a random tumblr or another blog, which wasn't the actual source of the image.

As it stands today, I have a whopping 453 likes. From time to time, I take a few minutes to pare them down, but I don't sweat that number. When I have the time to ensure these likes have proper sourcing behind them, I will actually repin them. If the source isn't correct, I do everything I can to find its origin. If I can't find it using this bookmarklet, I unlike it immediately. Though it doesn't give that instant satisfaction, it does eliminate spreading around a pin which isn't sourced correctly. It is a simple way to keep Pinterest "honest", which is everyone's best interest.

Do you use the "like" feature on Pinterest? If so, how? I am so curious to see what you're doing! xoxo {av}

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charleston.

2013-04-29T07:30:00.000-04:00

Two years ago, {cv} and I spent a magical weekend in Charleston, South Carolina. I'm super excited because we are going back in May! In just four weeks, we'll be landing in the the Holy City for a few days of relaxation and rejuvenation. The countdown is officially on...

We'll have three days to visit new haunts, as well as a few favorites from our last trip like Husk and The Gin Joint. For serious, I cannot wait to eat some shrimp and grits, walk on King Street, and soak up the southern sunshine {with some SPF, of course}.

I would love to make it out to a plantation or two, but I'm having a hard time narrowing

down what we can actually fit in those 72 hours. This is where you come in...

Where would you send us in Charleston? We love to eat great food, visit the sights, and sip a few good cocktails. If you've ever visited or if you live in Charleston, I'm looking at you to hear your favorites. In the two years since our last visit, I am sure some fabulous new places have popped up. I cannot wait to hear your suggestions :) My readers never disappoint. Thank you so, so much for your help! xoxo {av}

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friday's fancies #126.

2013-04-26T00:00:00.000-04:00

Hello there, Friday! Good to see you :) There aren't many April showers falling across the United States today, but it is only right to devote a week to rainy day chic Friday's Fancies. With primary colors on display, I crafted a polished and preppy look to weather any shower which comes my way...

find them here--with a few fabulous sales to boot!

Hunter Ladies Bubble Umbrella

J.Crew Factory Pleated Shift Dress {30% off online + 50% off in stores this weekend!}

Juicy Couture Knots & Anchors Enamel & Pavé Bracelet {20% off this bracelet now!}

Rose Pierre Harp Seashell Bracelet

Tory Burch Simon Utility Pouch {25% off online with TBSPRING through 4.29!}

Hunter Original High Gloss Rainboots in Vintage Yellow

Don't let the April showers keep you down! If you blogged about fashion this week, please feel free to add your post below :) You can also join the weekly mailing list to get weekly deets in your inbox. Friday's Fancies is an easy place to meet like-minded fashionable bloggers, so be sure to click around and find someone new! The #FridaysFancies faithful never disappoints: many thanks to each of you for what is sure to be another great week of amazing ensembles.

What plans do you have for this sunny weekend? I'm beyond excited to be a part of the Blog Better Boston: Style Summit this weekend. Enjoy every minute of your down time--I'll see you on Monday! xoxo {av}

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free summer inspired iphone background.

2013-04-25T07:30:00.000-04:00

A very happy Thursday! I'm excited to share a new summery iPhone background today :) When I spied this mint gimlet over on The Life Styled, summer felt just a bit closer. The fresh limes and gorgeous striped tablecloth stir up summer memories.

{photo source: mint gimlet via The Life Styled}

You should be able to download the appropriate background on your computer and then email it to yourself. Once you do that, save it to your computer and apply it as a background--and you'll be in business!
If you have any issues, please let me know :)

What other color schemes would you like to see in an iPhone background? xoxo {av}

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nobi: organic baby goodness.

2013-04-23T07:30:00.000-04:00

Say hello to Nobi--a brand new brand for stylish little ones!

Take a peek at what Nobi has up their wishbone-adorned sleeves...

These sweet photos by Carly Michelle illustrate the Nobi brand, built on the wish to build a brighter, cleaner world for children everywhere. I jumped at the chance to work behind the scenes at Nobi and see their phenomenal dream come to life! These kiddos are actually sporting designs by yours truly :)

The Fairytale Collection contains eight onesies for little misses and misters. Made of 100% certified organic cotton, they are incredibly soft and well-made. Each garment is printed with the safest inks. You can read more about their process here.

With every purchase, Nobi will send a donation to the Clinton Health Access Initiative to support maternal and child care health programs in Uganda. Buying organic and supporting babies in need--who can argue with that? I may not have a little one of my own just yet, but I plan on giving these conscious and cute Nobi onesies for my favorite nieces and nephews.

Which color is your favorite? {I'm partial to storm + teaberry!} xoxo {av}

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{all images via Carly Michelle Photography}
*this is not a sponsored post--I completely stand behind Nobi's mission*

bronze(r) beauties.

2013-04-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

As the temperatures slowly start to creep up this spring, getting a little color becomes a big priority. Thankfully, we can now get that color without hitting the tanning bed. Being sun savvy is incredibly important to me as a skin cancer survivor. Last spring, I pulled together a massive list of self tanners {or for the full-length pin here}. This year, I went a similar route and compiled 29 different facial bronzers in a variety of formulas and budgets. If you don't see your favorite below, be sure to leave it in the comments! I would also love your feedback on bronzers you love and loathe...

My favorite bronzer {as of late} is this one from Bobbi Brown. In my earlier days, I loved this very cost-effective one from Bonne Bell. One thing I've learned over the years is that the brush you use really does matter. I treated myself to this one with a giftcard this Christmas--and love it!

first row: Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder - Buxom Hot Escapes Bronzer - Smashbox Fusion Soft Lights Baked Starburst // second row: Rimmel Natural Bronzer - Neutrogena Healthy Skin Blends Natural Radiance Bronzer - Lorac TANtalizer Baked Bronzer // third row: per-fékt Cheek Perfection Gel in Bronzed - Tarte Bronze & Glow Matte Bronzer & Cheek Tint // fourth row: Clinique True Bronze Pressed Powder Bronzer - NARS Bronzing Powder - Stila Sun Bronzing Powder // fifth row: Josie Maran Bronzing Argan Oil - Stila One Step Bronze - Clarins Liquid Bronze Self-Tanning for Face & Decollete - Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Luminous Liquid Bronzer - Sephora Collection Instant Airbrush Body Bronzer // sixth row: Urban Decay Baked Bronzer - Clarins Bronzing Powder Duo SPF 15 - Too Faced Sun Bunny Natural Bronzer // seventh row: Bonne Bell Bronzing Gel - Lancôme Star Bronzer Magic Bronzing Brush - Mai Couture 2-1 Blotting & Bronzing Paper - Physician's Formula Mineral Wear Bronzing Talc-Free Veil // eighth row: Laura Mercier Bronzed Pressed Powder - Cargo blu-ray High Definition Bronzer - Tarte Mineral Powder Bronzer // ninth row: Stila Set & Bronze Baked Powder Trio - Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Compact - Guerlain Terracotta Light Sheer Bronzing Powder

The biggest takeaway is that getting a faux glow doesn't have to be expensive. Being healthy is the most important. Using a bronzer with an SPF is the best plan. Your face will thank you when you're 60, I promise. I can't wait to hear your feedback on this bronzer debate :) xoxo {av}

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friday's fancies #125.

2013-04-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

Can someone give me a TGIF? I'm so happy it's time for some bright and cheery Friday's Fancies, especially in light of this week's events. It should come as no surprise then that neons are the focus for this week's Fancies. This summer, we have a stretch of four weekends in which we have three weddings. As always, my dress search begins with Rent The Runway. This dress is calling my name--though it would definitely be a step outside my comfort zone. Here's how I would style it if my budget were unlimited:

find them here: BaubleBar Pavé Tab Strand Necklace + Guerlain Maxi Shine d'Enfer Lip Gloss in Rose Splatch + Dior Diorshow Nude Tan BB Broad Spectrum SPF 15 + Alexander Wang Tri-Fold Bag +

Diane Von Furstenberg Jujette Heels

Not a fan of neon? No worries--all fashion posts are welcome :) One small piece of advice: be sure to add your blog name in the "title" and use the link to your actual post, not just your blog. People will more easily find your link in weeks to come! Want to become a part this amazing little #FridaysFancies family?? Click here to join the mailing list + get the themes in your inbox every Monday night!

Are you on the neon train? Or has the neon train left the station in your closet? Give me the skinny!

I'd also love your opinion on this Rent The Runway dress. I'm a little scared to take the plung! Sending all of my love to the Friday's Fancies faithful--thank you for making this little link-up stronger every week. I hope you have a peaceful weekend, however you spend it. See you Monday! xoxo {av}

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lovely in lemon.

2013-04-18T07:30:00.000-04:00

With spring in the air, bright colors come into play once more. I love the color yellow but have always been hesitant to incorporate it in a big way in our decor. I decided to explore this bright hue a bit further by pulling together an ideabook for Houzz. These eight items offer small {and a few big} ways to incorporate this lovely lemon in your space. Take a peek!

find them here: Crate & Barrel Yellow Watering Can + Furbish Studio Yellow Spotted Pillow + Williams-Sonoma Temple Jar + Mark & Graham Typographer's Linen Coasters + Design Darling Bee Matches + Furbish Studio Color Pop Juice Glasses + Lulu & Georgia Marisol Rug in Pale Daffodil + CB2 Club Lemongrass Chair

Have you incorporated a bright hue in your own decor? If so, did you go big or start small?

I can't wait to see your neon on display for tomorrow's #FridaysFancies! Until then... xoxo {av}

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if you are losing faith in human nature, go out and watch a marathon.

2013-04-16T07:30:00.000-04:00

I have few words today after yesterday's tragedy in Boston. It was only after seeing this quote from Kathrine Switzer {via Dave Zirin and Ezra Klein} that my heart was comforted ever so slightly last night.

Kathrine was the first woman to run the Boston Marathon, inspiring generations of women {including me} to tackle the challenge of 26.2 miles. The sentiment in her statement is so true: marathons truly bring out the best in humanity. Even when the worst of human nature was on display yesterday, these examples prove that we will prevail over this horror.

The only way I could process the emotions of yesterday was to do what I always do when I need a chance to think: I went running. I've learned from 16+ years of running that it is my best medicine.

I am so grateful to know that everyone I know in Boston is fine and well, but it doesn't make up for the people who weren't so fortunate. I'll continue sending endless prayers to everyone affected--and I hope you'll do the same. I'll be back to normal programming on Thursday. xoxo {av}

#seemyshowcase - april edition.

2013-04-15T07:30:00.000-04:00

A very happy Monday to each of you! I've been excited for this Monday since I first shared the idea for the #seemyshowcase Instagram challenge in March. The #seemyshowcase monthly link-up will be your one-stop-shop to discover great new Instagrammers, whether they're bloggers or not. You can also showcase your favorite shots from other IGers by adding them below. See it as a way to give them a virtual pat on the back ;) The photo I chose for this month was taken on Cape Cod a couple of weeks ago. Spring still seems as far away as it did in this picture...

If you're like me, you have come to love Instagram for a peek into the daily lives of others {in a non-creepy way, of course}. As a lover of photography, Instagram is even more addicting. I love the photo-editing process {see this post} and now see Instagram as a place to share only my best. If you've never participated in a link-up, here's a little how-to guide to help make it easier for you.

If you have any questions, feel free to email me. Remember: you do NOT have to be a blogger to participate. All you need to do is add the link to your favorite Instagram from the past four weeks--and you're done! Add only one from your account for each month's link-up. If you want to showcase others, you're welcome to add as many as you like :) Make sure to let them know using the #seemyshowcase hashtag in a comment on their photo! This link-up is all about sharing the love!
If you want to join in the link-up in future months, be sure to add yourself to the mailing list.

How do you chose what you do and don't on Instagram? Are you picky or do you just go for it?
I can't wait to hear about your process! Have an amazing Monday! xoxo {av}

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friday's fancies #124.

2013-04-12T00:00:00.000-04:00

Raise your hand if you're happy it's Friday! With a birthday and an anniversary this week, it's been a bit crazy around our little apartment. Busy weeks definitely make the weekends even sweeter. If I had an unlimited shopping budget, you just might find me in this ensemble for a Friday night date with {cv}. Since this week's Friday's Fancies is all about the shoes, I knew I had to pick a knock-out pair in my favorite color...

find them here:

Kate Spade Marquee Chandelier Earrings + J.Crew Collection Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater

Milly Nikki Oversized Fringe Clutch + Tory Burch Alexa Cropped Skinny Jeans

J.Crew Everly Suede Pumps in Bluebird

If you've posted about fashion this week, be sure to add your link below! Any and all fashion posts are welcome. Be sure to use your blog name when linking up to give you the credit where credit is due for your post. To my Friday's Fancies faithful: thank you for making the newer #FridaysFancies folks feel welcome--and for being so creative and stylish in every post you share. Sign up for the Friday's Fancies weekly newsletter to stay in the loop with future themes and happenings!

We're off to New Hampshire to celebrate the wedding of my sister-in-law, {kv}! As matron-of-honor,

I'm getting some serious pre-speech jitters, but I'm just so happy and honored to be standing beside her :)

I'll catch you all on Monday for the #seemyshowcase fun! What's on tap for your weekend? xoxo {av}

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