Life in the Super Burbs

Happy Love Day!

2012-02-14T14:42:00.001-05:00

One think I love so much about this festive holiday is all the inspiration floating around. So I thought I would share some of my favorite finds around the world wide web inspired by this day of mushiness. Happy Valentine's Day my loves! xoxo

1. Frozen hearts via A Subtle Revelry / 2. XOXO Cake via Ruffled / 3. Heart of Books via Just a few Prints / 4. Heart Garland via Wedding Chicks / 5. Valentine Cocktail via Style Me Pretty / 6. Signature Cocktail via Southern Weddings

What are you doing to celebrate? I'm typically not the biggest fan of this holiday, I'll admit it - but I do love a good reason to celebrate and give an extra smooch or two! Here's a few for you - xxxxxxxxx!

Happy Weekend!

2012-02-10T15:49:00.000-05:00

via

I'm sorry, this picture is just too darn adorable. Hope your weekend is equally as cute.

Tuesday Shoesday

2012-02-07T08:02:00.000-05:00

I can guarantee a few pair of Tipsy Skippers will be placed on my tooties this spring. They are not only adorable, but local to the Super Burbs making them that much more darling in my book. Will a plethora of patterns - they will make any prepster proud. Just take a little gander for yourself...

Tipsy Skipper via Classy Girls Wear Pearls

See even more here!

Mountain Retreat Day Dreaming

2012-02-06T11:56:00.001-05:00

If you know me at all - you know if I love something, I love it hard. Skiing just happens to be one of those things. We spent a few days on the slopes last week, and getting me off that mountain was not that easy. So I spent the remainder of the weekend dreaming of a ski chalet for us to escape to (if only in our dreams) right down to the chandeliers.

Oh to have a little slope side cabin to fill with the most fabulous decor. I must admit, while others might be thinking of where they want to apres ski as they glide down the mountain - I'm typically thinking of what bedding would be best for the imaginary bunk beds in our imaginary house. Issues.

Happy Weekend!

2012-01-27T18:46:00.000-05:00

I hope you had the loveliest of weeks and are looking forward to the most fabulous of weekends! I just opened the weekend's first bottle of wine, and these cookies look like the perfect pairing...don't you agree?

via Alea Lovely Photo + Video

Tuesday Shoesday

2012-01-24T09:59:00.000-05:00

Yep.

Wayne Yuan via Style Me Pretty

Happy {Snowy} Weekend!

2012-01-20T18:31:00.001-05:00

It's going to be a snowy weekend in the Super Burbs, and I am THRILLED. It's about time. So this weekend will be full of cozy fires, reading, date days and date nights with Mr. C, and lots of playing in the snow with Sir Otto. There is just something about the white stuff that turns me into a 5 year old. I woke up at 4AM today just to see it all (like I've never seen snow before) and shovel the driveway. I just LOVE how pretty it makes everything in the winter. I never said I was normal.

Emily Steffen via Style Me Pretty

Hope you have a great one! Miss y'all already!

xoxo, Abby

POC

2012-01-18T07:46:00.000-05:00

I have a confession...Two days ago I tweeted to Brad Goreski and a little part of me was hoping for a tweet back. Now, I'm not normally a person that tweets people who have NO idea who I am, but I think he is a doll. We would for sure be BFF. I mean he just styled the Kate Spade spring collection - and Kate is my other imaginary BFF. Anyway his love for POC (that's Pop of Color, mom) is definitely contagious. And I'm starting to notice it EVERYWHERE. And I like it.

What do you think of a little POC?

Tuesday Shoesday

2012-01-17T09:04:00.000-05:00

White hunter boots. In a closet of blush and beige? Well, I do believe I found my dream closet.

via

Baby It's Cold Outside

2012-01-16T16:09:00.001-05:00

Call me crazy - but I like the cold weather these days. Houses feel cozier, fires feel warmer and hibernating is totally acceptable. Now all we need is a big blizzard...yes I am one of those weirdo that LOVES them with all my being...

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6

I never thought I would say it - but boy do I love winter these days...

Why hello there...

2012-01-14T14:35:00.000-05:00

This week I was basically useless. I did my duties for Style Me Pretty and that was all the energy I could possibly muster. There were days when I didn't really get out of bed, and let me just say - I've had better weeks. BUT (there is always a but) through all of this not-so-ideal-sick-week, I often realized I was the luckiest girl ever, and fell in love with my boys even more (if that's even possible). Mr. C would come home early (this never happens) to tuck me into the bed I had already been in all day, or make me a cup of tea, or just talk to me while I fell into a nyquil-induced coma. Otto acted like it was his #1 job to rush to my side at every cough, sneeze or groan. That dog has never been so concerned about ANYTHING. And although the week wasn't ideal, so to say, it made me realize our little family here in the Super Burbs is pretty darn fabulous.

This isn't us obviously, but it could have been. via

Sorry I was a complete slacker this week - I hope it was so fabulous for you!

Happy Weekend!

2012-01-06T13:39:00.000-05:00

Mr. C and I hit the ground running (sprinting even) since 2012 showed its pretty little face. It's been one of those weeks where we have been working so much we haven't really even seen each other yet (does that happen to anyone else? It's bad), so to say we are looking forward to the weekend is the understatement of the year (even though there hasn't been much time in this new year for understatements). Basically what I am saying is that this weekend has been like the carrot at the end of the holiday season stick. We have our entire calendar blocked off for NOTHING. The calendar actually reads "ABBY DO NOT BOOK ANYTHING EVEN IF IT IS FUN" - sometimes I have to yell at myself because if I didn't schedule downtime it just wouldn't happen. It's one of our biggest resolutions for the new year, so let's see how it all pans out. I hope you all have a great weekend, and whatever you do - do not invite me to do something...I hate saying no...

By one of my favs Caitlin McGauley

SMP Best of 2011 Digital Magazine

2012-01-05T14:56:00.000-05:00

It's here! And boy is it pretty. You'll want to block off a few good hours to devour this pretty puppy!

SEE IT ALL HERE

Welcome 2012!

2012-01-02T10:12:00.000-05:00

Potter and Butler on Etsy

Did you have a great holiday? How did you ring in the New Year? We spent it laughing so hard our abs hurt the next morning with some of our great friends, and if that's not a great way to welcome 2012 I don't know what is. It's kind of nice to be in a new year - full of new, fabulous things on the horizon. Do you have any resolutions or goals? I don't typically set resolutions, but Mr. C and I made some fun ones that I think we will actually keep this year. What are yours?

New Year's Eve Motto.

2011-12-30T13:54:00.000-05:00

I think this is about sums it up.

What are your plans for the weekend? We are headed to the Berkshires along with some of our favorite folks (and Otto, of course) for a weekend of drinking champagne, dancing on tables and some skiing. A fabulous way to ring in the new year, no?

Thanks for making 2011 so fabulous! Here's to an even better 2012 - I sense great things on the horizon.

Merry Christmas From The Super Burbs

2011-12-24T15:05:00.000-05:00

From Mr. Boddington - who I am obsessed with

Here is a little sneak peek at our Christmas cards this year - 3/4 of them will be sent out next week (oops - Christmas fail). Since we don't have kids, and not everyone we know and love classifies dogs as kids (earmuffs Otto), we decided to go sans photo this year and keep it simple & stylish. Now if we could only get them in the mailbox.

I hope you have the merriest of Christmases - May your weekend be full of things memories are made of.

xoxo, Abby

Christmas Cheer

2011-12-21T10:09:00.000-05:00

The next few days are full of hustle and bustle (and some more hustle) for Mr. C, Otto and I - so I wanted to wish all of you who celebrate a very Merry Christmas before I ran out of time and...of course, tell a little story. Last night I had my first - holy cow, it's almost Christmas and I haven't done a thing - moment. Only half of my Christmas cards are in the mail, I still have presents to buy, and I haven't baked or consumed a single Christmas cookie - which might be the worst thing of all. If I can be completely honest, my Christmas cheer was at an all time low. I am a people pleaser and that can get somewhat exhausting over the holidays - anyone with me on that one? Well, sensing my worry and knowing I can get somewhat overwhelmed trying to make everyone else in the world happy - Mr. C came home, poured me a glass of wine, put on A White House Christmas on HGTV (which, in my humble opinion, could be decorated better), made Otto do tricks to make me laugh, and generally just made me slow down. He's good at that. So I thought I would just send a little reminder to all of you in blogland to try to slow down a bit. Soak up the next few days and the little moments you get to spend with your favorite people - they won't even remember if you didn't get your Christmas cards out in time, I promise.

Merry Christmas lovelies!

Oh {Seaside Chic} Christmas Tree

2011-12-19T09:54:00.002-05:00

Seaside decor has a HUGE place in my heart. The ocean is the reason Mr. C and I live in Rhode Island vs. Boston or NYC, and I just adore all things seaside chic. So when a friend spotted these pretty Mussel Trees(c) on display down at the Ocean House (my favorite place in all the land) and sent them my way, well I was sold. Then when I talked to the owner Dale and her sweet as can be self, I felt the need to spread the word for all of you out there in blogland. Because I just can't bare to keep something this fab to my little ol self!

Yep. Those are made of mussels and pearls. How lovely is that?! Can you even IMAGINE how fab they would be for a winter wedding? Or a centerpiece for your winter table? Or just to stare at all the live-long day? If you love them as much as I do, send Dale an email at dmunsill@cox.net to place your orders! She even loans them out for rent!

P.S. She creates four sizes; a small that stands nine inches tall ($60), a medium that is thirteen inches tall ($140), a large that is eighteen inches tall ($195) and an extra large that is two-feet tall ($265). She is currently running a special through the month of December for which all customers will receive a 20 percent discount on any size trees.

P.S.S. Take a guess who has already placed an order....Merry Christmas to me!

Guest Post: Gift Guide for Valley & Co.

2011-12-13T12:18:00.000-05:00

I'm guest posting over on Valley & Co. - so head on over to check out my picks and leave them some holiday love! xoxo

Feeling Festive

2011-12-12T20:07:00.000-05:00

It's been a hectic few weeks in the Super Burbs, but I am finally stopping to take in all the hustle and bustle...or for Mr. C and I - take in the wine by the fireplace. Whatever makes you feel festive, right? Well, I swear we logged some serious hours by that heat source this weekend, and I do say it made me utter the words "I love winter" more than once. And I meant it. Now we just need some snow, and I will be a certified (happy) shut in.

Click image for full credits

The Gift of Giving

2011-11-30T20:45:00.001-05:00

Warning, this is a bit of a "I'm-a-bit-emotional-about-the-events-of-the-evening" type rant. If you know Mr. C and I at all, you know we don't do the gift exchange thing most couples do. We just never have and we have never forced it. As much as I love the thought of pretty things, I love hanging out with Mr. C more - to me that is a gift. So we typically just go out to a nice dinner to celebrate each other - or go on a little road trip and shut the phones off. We believe in the little things - you know that about me. Anyway, every year during the holiday season, I get very sensitive about all of those people out there that can't afford the luxury of making the decision to not exchange gifts - they just simply can't give. So Mr. C and I make a point to take the funds we would have spent on each other, and spend it on others through a local giving tree. Folks, I am crying right now because the seven-year old little boy we drew this year just wanted socks. Just socks. Not socks and an x-box. Not socks and a cell phone. Just a pair of socks. That is heart breaking to me. It should be heart breaking to everyone. I don't know why I am writing this, I just needed to stop the tears and to encourage anyone out there in blogland to give. Even if it's just a little bit. Even if it's just socks. It means something huge to someone out there.

Thanks for listening, Otto is currently licking the tears off my face, and I am scolding him about never eating our socks again.

Hi there.

2011-11-30T12:22:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post to let you know that I am still around - just busy (surprise!). So I just wanted to say hello, just because. If you REALLY miss me - you can find me posting WAY too many pictures of Otto on instagram, or posting fun things I find around the world wide web on Facebook or chat with me on Twitter, or of course blogging away over at Style Me Pretty. And I wonder why I don't have time to get blog updates up! Anywho love and miss you! P.S. I loved this shoot we featured on SMP's Facebook page and wanted to share...

click image for full credits - photos by Leslee Mitchell

Happy Thanksgiving Eve + Tips!

2011-11-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

I LOVE Thanksgiving. It might be my favorite holiday - and for someone that just adores Christmas, that says a lot. But I love what Thanksgiving stands for. There is no pressure for gifts it's just a time to gather around a table with family and friends to be thankful. How fabulous is that? I say a little thank you every day on my own time, but it's nice to have a day to really get those thank you's out in the open, ya know? Anywho, I've had a few people ask me for a little table inspiration so I thought I would share my Thanksgiving table "rules"(p.s. Mom, I stole these from you)...

1. Keep it simple. The food is king on this pretty holiday. You don't need a floral arrangement the size of Uncle John's head to impress your guests.

via Design Sponge

2. Serve courses. You didn't cook for 12 hours for it to be devoured in 12 minutes. Start with a soup course (butternut squash soup anyone?) or something equally as fabulous. My family likes to see how long we can sit at the dinner table - we usually don't get up until it's time for bed because the conversation is always so fabulous (ok, or just funny)...

Alla Zepeda via Style Me Pretty

3. Delegate. You don't have to do it all. Let people help, they want to. Let them take care of the appetizers or the pies or clean up even. This year my job was to bring champagne and cheese - and boy I was excited to do so!

via Style Me Pretty

4. Use different levels. I ALWAYS use different levels when presenting food. It allows people to really see what they are in for! And makes for a more interesting display. You can do this with cake stands, books, or really any random thing you have around the house.

via Style Me Pretty

5. Don't Crowd the Table. Use an island, another table or a bar for those big food items - let people serve their portion. This will also allow you to use those different levels without blocking people's view of each other. Keep bread, condiments, wine, wine, and more wine on the table.

Lonny via Sacramento Street

6. Use Place cards. Not only will it pretty up your table, it avoids confusion when your guests are at their hungriest. Plus it allows you to have fun with your tablescape!

via Style Me Pretty

7. Make a toast. Our family toasts to everything, but we always start Thanksgiving with a prayer (like any good Catholic) and a toast where everyone goes around the room to state what they are thankful for. It's fun, and our sappy family loves it (there are always tears)...

via Style Me Pretty

8. Dress up! The fancier you feel, the more special the day will feel.

via Style Me Pretty (PS I need this dress Santa)

9. Be a Happy Host or Hostess. If you are relaxed and having a good time, your guests will follow suit. Those dishes can wait. That extra glass of wine? It has your name written ALL over it.

via Mrs. Lilien

10. Indulge. Have that extra glass or wine or piece of pie. It won't kill you :)

via Tartlette

What are your Thanksgiving Tips?

P.S. I am SUPER thankful for all of you. xoxo.

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-11-22T15:35:00.000-05:00

via Anthropologie

Practically perfect (for Fall) in every way...

For even more perfect finds foryour feet check out: {TRUE Event} {brancoprata} {magnolia rouge} {demoiselle} {meant to be sent} {simply & forever} {landlocked bride} {swatchbook weddings}{luna & chloe weddings} {merci new york} {enchanted dream weddings}

Ladies Weekend

2011-11-21T10:01:00.000-05:00

Hi lovelies! Well this past weekend was just SO much fun over here. For the past 3 years, I've hosted a "Ladies Weekend" in the Super Burbs for the women of my family the weekend before Thanksgiving. Before all the holiday hustle and bustle sets in - Ladies Weekend gives us all a chance to kick off the most wonderful time of the year in style. Not only that, a slumber party with your Grandmother, Mom, Aunt, Sister and Cousin is pretty darn special. I don't think we stopped laughing the entire time. So many priceless memories came out of that weekend - and while I can share all the inside jokes, I though I could share a little peak into the spread I put together...sorry for the iphone pictures!

Hope your weekend was equally as lovely! I just LOVE this time of year!

Dress Obsessed.

2011-11-16T08:51:00.000-05:00

People. This dress has been dancing around in my dreams since I first spotted it in the SMP submissions. I can't get it out of my head, and honestly - I don't want to.

I do say, if Mr. C and were to tie the knot again, this Temperley London dress would be 100% what I would wear. Obsessed.

You can see the entire feature here.

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-11-15T17:56:00.000-05:00

A little late today - but better than never, right? Mostly when today's shoes are this perfectly girly and pink...

via Style Me Pretty

For even more fancy for your feet check out: {TRUE Event} {brancoprata} {magnolia rouge} {demoiselle} {meant to be sent} {simply & forever} {landlocked bride} {swatchbook weddings}{luna & chloe weddings} {merci new york} {enchanted dream weddings}

Featured: Oh Lovely Day

2011-11-14T10:04:00.000-05:00

So honored to be included in Oh Lovely Day's Behind the Veil series! Check it out here!

Thanks again Chandra for including me! xoxo

Happy {Veteran's Day} Weekend!

2011-11-11T18:12:00.000-05:00

We are the home of the free because we are the land of the brave. Thanks to all that serve. From the bottom of my heart.

Andria Lindquist via Style Me Pretty - we did a day devoted to Veterans on SMP today - check it out!

Sorry I've been quiet (yet again)....LOTS going on over here, can't wait to fil y'all in! xoxo

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-11-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

Erin Hearts Court via Style Me Pretty

If these shoes don't make you feel fancy, I don't know what will.

For even more fancy for your feet check out: {TRUE Event} {brancoprata} {magnolia rouge} {demoiselle} {meant to be sent} {simply & forever} {landlocked bride} {swatchbook weddings}{luna & chloe weddings} {merci new york} {enchanted dream weddings}

From Dream to DIY

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

See that pretty picture on the left? The dream of all dream walls? Well I died over it. Shouldn't all walls be that fabulous? Well I think yes, so when I spotted the DIY on the right via the world wide web that could make my dream for a wall of glitter a reality, I just had to share it. Because this wall could be your dessert table backdrop, or the perfect way to compliment your bar cart in your living room, or how about using it as a headboard in your guest room? There really is no end to this fabulousness, and you have to love that.

Dream Wall Found here / DIY found here

Anyone want to give it a try?

A Saturday Thank You.

2011-11-05T07:31:00.002-04:00

Seriously, I get excited every time someone repins something on Pinterest. So thanks for all those moments of glee. Y'all are really the best.

Happy Saturday!

Happy Weekend!

2011-11-04T17:51:00.001-04:00

It's November and it's the weekend. Both of them are sneaky little tricksters that completely snuck up on me. But I am going with it. I love November because it's hosts one of my favorite holidays (ok, they are all my favorite) - Thanksgiving. And I love the weekend, well - because who doesn't? I sincerely hope you have something pretty planned for the weekend ahead. We are hanging around town enjoying the crisp, fall air - and possibly lighting our first fire of the year - which makes me beyond happy. I am really quite easy to please.

jessica hart, marie claire us october 2011

Also I want to live in this girl's outfit this winter. She actually looks warm - which if you ask Mr. C, I never am.

Happy Weekend! Miss y'all already! Don't forget to set your clocks back!

xoxo

All that Glitters...

2011-11-02T13:20:00.000-04:00

1: Tray / 2: Recipe Coasters / 3: Bowl / 4:Glassware / 5: Bowl / 6: Spoons / 7: Glassware

....Is fabulous

With the Holidays approaching, my mind is on parties and making those parties pretty...ok, so my mind is on that subject year round, but this time of year people don't think I am crazy for it. This year, I love gold. One because it's gorg. And two because it can easily carry over from Thanksgiving to Christmas to New Years...and that is something the Mr. C in me (he is super frugal) appreciates:)

What about you? What are you feeling this holiday season other than a whole lotta cheer?

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-11-01T10:54:00.000-04:00

Practically perfect in every way.

Erin Hearts Court via Style Me Pretty

For even more fabulous check out: {TRUE Event} {brancoprata} {magnolia rouge} {demoiselle} {meant to be sent} {simply & forever} {landlocked bride} {swatchbook weddings}{luna & chloe weddings} {merci new york} {enchanted dream weddings}

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T15:21:00.000-04:00

via

As you can imagine, Halloween is a big deal in the the Super Burbs - and we live on a street where it is taken SERIOUSLY. I love it. I just carved two pumpkins on my lunch break because even though we don't have kids - we HAVE to show up for some Halloween action. I love it. It's one of my favorite days of the year here because it is just so darn festive, and everyone is partying. So Happy Halloween to all of you - may it be full of treats and tricks of the fun variety! xoxo!

Happy Weekend!

2011-10-29T09:21:00.003-04:00

Well this week went by rather fast, didn't it? It somewhat got away from me, but what can you do. And last night, Otto gave us such a huge scare and made me realize, once again, that parents of real human children are super heroes. With capes. Here's what happened - I got back from a day at SMP headquarters and Otto seemed off. He then proceeded to get sick for hours and hours until finally at midnight an entire ball appeared on my cute chevron rug. That rug is no longer with us, but I would've thrown out every piece of furniture in our house to make this silly dog feel better. And just like that, he felt better. Bounding around - so proud of his accomplishment.Mr. C and I just looked at each other (me with a face full of tears)like we finally had our hearts back. People, this is a dog. We are in SO much trouble when we have kids.

So now that all is right in the world again, I thought I would send you off into the pretty weekend with a fabulous DIY I spotted on A Beautiful Mess - Such a statement piece and would be great over a dessert table, grouped together for a ceremony backdrop, etc. etc - the options are endless.

See all the pretty steps here

Do you have any fabulous weekend plans? Do tell.

I miss y'all already! xoxo

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-10-25T11:07:00.002-04:00

Loubie love. Literally.

This Modern Romance via Style Me Pretty

For more check out {TRUE Event} {brancoprata} {magnolia rouge} {demoiselle} {meant to be sent} {simply & forever} {landlocked bride} {swatchbook weddings}{luna & chloe weddings} {merci new york} {enchanted dream weddings}

Vacation Brain

2011-10-24T12:33:00.001-04:00

I think I could be on vacation with Mr. C forever. We are so good at it. You know when you are on vacation and you are your best possible self? That person that you wish you could always be if life and worries and blackberrys and iphones didn't get in the way? Well Mr. C & my best possible selves really enjoy each other. I don't think I stopped laughing the entire week, and I think we actually learned a thing or two about my favorite beverage - wine. It was another little life experience we get to tuck away in our memories for years to come. And on top of it I ran a marathon and got to see one of my dearest of friends that lives the prettiest little life in San Fran. So all in all, this vacation was a great one. I hope you had an equally lovely week. So while I'm coming down from a vacation high and trying to shake my serious case of vacation brain (life is much easier when all you have to do each day is figure out what winery to go to), I thought I would share a few things that made me excited to step off the plane (other than the fact it was a red eye with layovers) into the crisp, New England air. Fall is really here now, and cozy days filled with fires, blankets and comfy fashion are upon us. Which almost makes everyday feel like a pretty vacation.

via Need Supply Company

via We Heart it

via

via Marie Claire

via

Marathon Monday

2011-10-17T10:12:00.001-04:00

Finished, done, fineto. I did it. Another marathon under my belt and definitely the hardest course I've ever ran. It almost felt like a roller coaster - steep, steep climbs and then plunges in the form of downhills sandwiched in between even more "rolling" hills. But I kept my cool, focused on happy thoughts, tried to reign in my pace and ended up finishing with a time of 3:43. I am pumped. And as hard as the course was, it was equally as beautiful. The views were insane and almost made me forget about any pain in my legs. I fall more in love with San Francisco each minute I am here, so now it's time to fully enjoy it with my #1 fan - Mr.C. Thank you to everyone for your well wishes, and happy vibes you sent my way - they worked!  

Oh, and how fab are the "medals" for this race? Each finisher got a Tiffany's necklace. What girl doesn't love that little blue box?

Thanks again folks! Y'all are the best! xoxo

Happy {Marathon!} Weekend!

2011-10-14T09:09:00.000-04:00

Well folks. It's time. Tomorrow at the crack of dawn (aka 2 hours after my standard wake up time) Mr. C and I are headed to the left coast for some vaca time .... and a little marathon. I am a bit nervous. I love to run. I am one of those weird people that really, with all my being, enjoys running. I would run a marathon a month if my body would let me (it does NOT let me do crazy things like that). But this race scares me for some reason because it is a hilly mess. So please, on Sunday morning when you are enjoying brunch and bloodys say a little toast & prayer for me - I'll need all the happy vibes I can get.

Honestly though, I feel so fortunate to be able to do something like this. Every day when I go out for my run I feel lucky that I am physically able to run. It's such a huge blessing and one I never take for granted.... of course, having Mr. C at the finish line makes running those 26.2 oh so worth it.

Posting will be light next week because Mr. C and I will be in Napa and Sonoma "recovering" aka drinking lots and lots of wine. I miss y'all already...

Ruffles & Leaves

2011-10-13T10:12:00.002-04:00

I saw this dress on Pinterest and died. The good kind of died. I would wear this every.day in the fall if I could get away with it. One because it is GORGEOUS and two because I hate pants. Ask Mr. C - I just can't stand them. They make me feel claustrophobic. Anyway, in my dream world I would just float around in something as ruffly as this, and my hair would look that fabulous, I would run through the leaves and I would host fabulous fall fêtes for all! People, my dream world is pretty fabulous...

For Full Credits click here / Except for that dress - I have no idea where the first person pinned it. For shame.

Wine Country Dreamin'

2011-10-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

So after the little jog I have in San Fran on Sunday, Mr. C and I are heading to wine country. Neither of us have been before and we.are.so.excited. One because we like to hang out with each other, just the two of us...and two, because well...we like wine. Not in the sniff your wine and let it breathe type of a way (although we promise to be good students during our tastings), but we enjoy an adult beverage or two in a pretty part of the world - so wine country just seems like a lovely fit for the two of us. Not to mention I've been dying to see the place for myself since some of my all time favorite weddings on Style Me Pretty are from the country of wine. Napa and Sonoma just seem to produce the pretty right along side the grapes. So I thought I would share a few of my favorites by way of tablescapes, so y'all could dream along side me...

Jose Villa via Style Me Pretty

Oh Jose. You can do now wrong. This one is such a lovely surprise for wine country. You expect a more rustic or vintage or wineryish wedding and BAM. Lucite chairs. A modern tablescape. Elegance with attitude. LOVE IT. Oh Jose, I can't tell Mr. C how much I love you (but i have a feeling he already knows)...


Punam Bean via Style Me Pretty The florals in this wedding just made my preppy heart palpitate. That and any alfresco dining situation makes me so incredibly happy. Seriously - in the middle of the winter I stare at photos like this to warm my heart and remind myself that dining outside does actually happen. And in my day dreaming brain - it looks this pretty.

Lisa Lefkowitz via Style Me Pretty

This, my friends, is rustic chic. The perfect balance of burlap and amazing use of light and hints of pink. Those hanging candles are perfection. In my dream land I would hang something similar in my backyard just so I could enjoy all my evenings under the stars and candlelight. Of course, in my dream land it doesn't rain and is always 73 degrees. Actually, my dream land might be wine country.

Photography by Max Wanger / Styling by Beth Helmstetter via Style Me Pretty

Holy fabulous baby's breath centerpieces! I love the different height levels on this table - other than the fact that they are fabulous combo of traditional meets elegant meets modern, they are also at the correct level so people can actually see each other and talk. That is oh so important for a fab dinner party or event.


Gia Canali via Style Me Pretty Twinkling lights under an arbor of fabulousness, wooden chairs, clean crisp tablescaping - I think if I sat down at this table I might never get up. And I would be a-OK with that...

Jose Villa via Style Me Pretty

I love white decor. Might be a new obsession - actually it's an old obsession that just won't leave because I am holding the obsession hostage. I love it. It eases my mind and in my dream land I am not a clutz and red wine would NEVER spill on anything. So this table is heaven.

Jose Villa

Chandelier heaven. Elegance mixed with simple mixed with alfresco. The perfect recipe for stealing my little Super Burbian heart.

So what do you think? Do you share my love for all things wine country? Have you been before? And suggestions while we are out there?

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-10-11T09:04:00.000-04:00

It's marathon week. I am supposed to rest and eat carbs. Sounds pretty nice, right? Well it makes me MISERABLE. I am cranky when I can't run, and if you know me at all - resting is just something I don't excel at. At all. So I have been trying to find ways to occupy my mind before we board the plane to San Francisco this Saturday - and I came across these puppies. They need to find their way into my suitcase so I can walk around wine country (post race of course) in serious style. Don't you love?! Of course they are from my girl Kate Spade. And of course I won't actually get them, but wholly moly they are fall perfection!

via Kate Spade

Monday Morning Pretties

2011-10-10T09:18:00.001-04:00

For no particular reason, pink, orange and gold things are making my Monday morning feel fabulously fancy...

Just love. How was your weekend lovelies?

Pretty colors / DVF Dress / Tory Burch / Glitter Goodness / Centerpiece prettiness / Scarf

Happy {Birthday} Weekend!

2011-10-07T10:15:00.000-04:00

So I suppose I am that lady. The dog lady. The dog lady that writes a post for her puppy's first birthday (which is today btw). But I wear that dog lady badge proudly today, because our crazy little hooligan makes our life so dad gum hilarious - anyone that owned this dog would turn into a dog person. He is just a crazy clown show. And I love him for it. If you follow me on instagram (i'm crazy for that app) you've probably seen these photos before - but it's fun to see how much he's grown in the past year all in one place. This post also makes me nervous for any kids Mr. C and I might have - if I am this way for a dog, lord knows how nuts I will be with kids...heaven help them.

But he's so super cute, it's hard not to be a bit crazy in love...so Happy Birthday Sir Otto, our #1 hooligan extraordinaire!

Your Best Life

2011-10-06T10:14:00.000-04:00

I feel like I need to say a few words about Mr. Jobs. He and I are so different. I wish I had a fraction of his brain power, but what we do share is our belief in taking leaps. Following our gut. Trusting our instincts. Our love of design. Living our best life. Whatever that may be. My best steps in life have been leaps - I left the south after living there my entire life because I felt like I belonged in New England...a month later I met Mr. C. I left my ladder climbing corporate advertising job on just a feeling that I needed to be doing something I was more passionate about...a month later I connected with Style Me Pretty. There are so many more examples, and so many times people think I am crazy while taking those leaps, but come to find out I've just always trusted my heart. Trusted that my "mistakes" are for a purpose. Tried to live my best life. The quotes that have surfaced since Steve Jobs passed are such a fabulous reminder of why living your own life, full of passion, is so important. So selfishly, I wanted a place to keep them so I can go back to them from time to time...

images via Pinterest

Thank you Mr. Jobs for not only changing my life with all the fabulous products I can't imagine my life without...but for trusting your gut and going against the grain.

Fall Wardrobe

2011-10-05T17:11:00.000-04:00

As the leaves start to fall and my summer dresses are put I away, I would be lying if I said it didn't make me a wee bit sad. I love my summer frocks. But I am slowly embracing the fall wardrobe this year, because even my summer loving self has to admit that it's pretty fun. Year after year though, I find myself falling into what I call - my fall wardrobe. Blazers,scarves, flats, vests - oh my. But there is a reason for it - it's classic and timeless...and most of all comfy. I think I am going to throw some maxi dresses and skirts into the mix this year - but basically I am sticking with the tried and true staples for my fall wardrobe. What are yours?

J. Crew Blazer / Kate Spade bracelet / J. Crew Vest / J.Crew skirt / Stella & Dot bib necklace / Emerson made boot cut jean / J.Crew flat

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-10-04T11:08:00.001-04:00

Wow. Just Wow.

KT Merry via Style Me Pretty

Happy Weekend!

2011-09-30T17:35:00.000-04:00

I can.not.wait. for this weekend. The ants have set up camp in my pants for all the glory that is to be this weekend. Why might you ask? What fabulous plans do I have up my little sleeve for the end of this week? Well...we have none. No plans. Nothing. It might be dreary and rainy. We might actually get...bored. And I can't wait. Now, I can't honestly say we don't have any plans...we have "if we feel like doing them" plans...which are the best kind in my little opinion. We might go to the football game of Mr. C's alma mater, we might take Otto to the pumpkin patch, we might cook a little feast for two, we might just lay in our pjs and catch up - because this is the first time in over a month that Mr. C & I have been able to really hang out and I can.not.wait. We've been working our little tails off and those tails are getting a bit of a break the next couple days. So excuse us while we disconnect for 48 hours of pure weekend bliss...

via

I hope you have an equally lovely weekend ahead - miss y'all already!

xoxo

Hostess with the Mostess

2011-09-29T13:38:00.000-04:00

Spotted on Society Social, these hostess gowns put the hot back in hostess (go with it). Don't even think I'm not ordering one of these pretties and living in it just in case someone is need of a cocktail (i'm here to help people). I mean how COMFY do these look? You could serve a drink, grab an app and greet a guest all in a single bound in that gown! SO very Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (not that I watch that show or anything). Add a pair of dangly earrings and folks, you have yourself a fab outfit for entertaining!

via Society Social

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-09-27T07:42:00.000-04:00

Oh how I wish my closet looked liked this. First, because the shoes are so super GORG...and second, because they are lined up perfectly and my OCD totally appreciates that. Also, a closet where Choos and Loubies (and those sparkly silver shoes)stand side by side is A ok in my book.

via

Out Sick

2011-09-26T15:36:00.000-04:00

So after more than a month of little to no sleep (when there is a lot going on, I see a lot more of 3am than I would like), an agenda that isn't really human (hence having to wake up at 3am to get things done), and putting my whole heart into the weddings on the weekends - my body officially crashed yesterday at about 7pm. I could feel it coming. The crash. The full body rejection. It waited until I could finally sit down, and then just collapsed. Today I feel like a mac truck hit me - achy all over, congested like no other, and the brain capacity of a flea. But I did it. I managed to get it all done, and now I have this beautiful thing called down time ahead of me - where I can heal my worn out self, hang out with Mr. C and our little dog too, see our friends again and hang out with my family. Those things that I love so much - it's all on my horizon now. So I am going to recharge, get healthy, and enjoy all those little things that I love so much. Thank you for being so patient with me lately. You guys are seriously the best.

via

Happy {Wedding} Weekend!

2011-09-23T11:24:00.000-04:00

Well this has been a week...actually, this has been a month. A crazy pants month full of ups and downs and all arounds, but boy has is been busy. And I'm not getting off the busy train just yet, no no, I have a sure to be gorgeous wedding to bring to life at Chamard Vineyard for one of the sweetest brides I ever did meet. Seriously, she is adorable. And I am thrilled to be a part of her sure to be gorgeous day. So until we meet again on Monday, I'll leave you with a little sneak peak of what's dancing around in our heads for this sure to be darling day....

Hope y'all have a fabulous weekend!

Inspire Me Pretty Australia!

2011-09-21T07:21:00.002-04:00

Morning lovelies - did you think I dropped off the face of the planet? Well don't you worry your pretty little heads, this past month has just been crazy pants and has left me with little free time. Come Monday I should be a whole new woman! The kind of woman that actually gets laundry done, or has time to send thank you cards, go grocery shopping or actually cook. Watch out world! Until then, things might be a little spotty in the Super Burbs. But you know I'll be blabbing away over at Style Me Pretty, so you can always catch me there. Speaking of which, SMP Australia Weddings is doing an Inspire Me Pretty contest and I think each of you should enter it. Here's the board I whipped up - I've never been to Australia (booo), but I think this vintage beach chic affair would be a good fit down under...

click image for full credits

So go ahead and get to board building, just TAG your board Inspire Me Pretty AUSTRALIA and I’ll pick a board on Friday!

Happy {Wedding} Weekend!

2011-09-15T15:38:00.000-04:00

I've been a bit MIA this week, but I have good excuses. 1.) Work (obvi) 2.) Life is crazy pants and 3.) My dearest friend Katie (the pretty girl in blue below) is getting married THIS Saturday - so my focus has been on her pretty face. I feel as nervous, excited, anxious, stressed as I did before my wedding. Maybe even more so - she deserves the prettiest of days for her big celebration, and I'm ready to do everything in my power to make sure things run smooth as silk. Mr. C and I are making our journey up to Vermont tonight to kick off her wedding weekend, and we couldn't be more excited. It's sure to be one of the best.weekends.ever.

Katie - I love you so much and am SO honored to be a part of your big day and everyday...

The lovely Leila Brewster

Remembering...

2011-09-09T09:45:00.000-04:00

I can't tell you why, but this 10th anniversary of 9/11 is hitting me like a ton of bricks. Maybe it's Matt Lauer and all of his recapping of the interviews with the children that lost their parents or people who lost spouses...or just seeing how much can change and not change in 10 years. Regardless, I think it's important to remember. Important to get hit by a ton of bricks every now and again. Important to put things in perspective. Important to say a big fat thank you to all of those brave people that sacrifice their ENTIRE lives so we can go about our days.

Laure Leslie Photography via Style Me Pretty

So thank you...today and everyday.Thinking of all affected by 9/11 this weekend - which really was the entire world.

Elizabeth Messina is My Girl Crush

2011-09-08T19:22:00.000-04:00

I am obsessed with this shoot on Style Me Pretty today by Elizabeth Messina. That is all.

Elizabeth Messina via Style Me Pretty

I die.

Tuesday Shoesday + Inspire Me Pretty Illinois!

2011-09-06T11:39:00.000-04:00

Hello lovelies! How was everyone's weekend? Did you send Summer off in style? I did not. I have Summer locked in the basement downstairs because I refuse to let it leave me. I'm keeping the sun a shining through shoes today - bright, yellow, summer shoes. Because you can't make me say the F (fall of course) word just yet....

Julie Harmsen via Style Me Pretty

And while we are on the bright, happy, yellow train - We are doing another Inspire Me Pretty over at SMP, this time for Illinois. Here's what I whipped up - and you know the drill, go ahead and inspiration board build your day away! We are announcing winners next week!

Dear Summer 2012

2011-09-05T15:50:00.000-04:00

Taken on my iphone yesterday via instagram

Dear Summer 2012,

I am already counting down the days until your pretty little arrival. I promise not to let you get away from me like Summer 2011. I promise to soak in the little moments more and enjoy your long summer days. I promise to make the most of your light-filled nights, even on the weekdays. I promise to fall asleep while reading on the beach, and wake up only because it's time to shower for cocktails. I promise to cook more seafood-filled dinners with Mr. C, and take Otto on long swims more often. I promise to swim in the ocean at every chance I get. I promise to treat you much better than the Summer 2011...because Summer 2011 is very mad at my over-committed ways. It's a life lesson, and one I am not taking lightly. And while I am on my soap box, Fall 2011 and Winter 2012...get ready for me. I am soaking you up like sugar.

xoxo,
Abby

Happy {Labor Day} Weekend!

2011-09-02T12:16:00.001-04:00

Well this week was interesting, wasn't it? For us, the majority of it was spent in the dark thanks to Irene, and I must say - we gained a lot of perspective coming out of an electricity-free week. It taught us that our neighbors are pretty awesome - and neighborhood hurricane parties are where it's at. It taught us that being forced to close the computer and turn off technology is good for the soul. I learned that my neighbors are also good faux coworkers when we are all camped out for hours at Starbucks trying to get work done. I remembered how much I love reading. I had time to take Otto for swims everyday. It was...dare I say...nice. When the lights finally started to flicker, Mr. C and I looked at each other half so incredibly excited to shower again...and half a little sad that our little adventure was over. But I think it taught us a lot - who knew Irene was going to make such an impact? And now it's time for Labor Day weekend. I have such mixed feelings about this weekend - so bittersweet. I'm not ready to see this summer go. Not at all. So I am just going to pretend it's not happening. Nothing wrong with a little denial, right?

Jose Villa - my crush.

What are your plans for the weekend? Thanks for baring with me this past week!

xoxo - miss you already!

Lights Out

2011-08-30T16:09:00.001-04:00

Well apparently Irene liked the Super Burbs as much as we do and decided to make her mark on our sleepy little town. It really is quite amazing to see what this storm did to the surrounding houses. Word on the street is that our power might not be back on until Friday (or now Saturday). So if there is silence in the Super Burbs, you know why. To be honest, it has made me slow down a bit - which I think my little mind needed. I've read a bunch, which I forgot how much I loved. Mr. C and I have had some long, fabulous talks over flashlights and candles....and lots dance parties because there isn't anything else to do. And wine, lots of wine.

Hopefully we'll be back in business soon..until then, please excuse any delay in my email, twitter or facebook responses...battery power is priceless right now....xoxo

Happy Weekend {Not You Irene}!

2011-08-26T19:35:00.000-04:00

So a little lady named Miss Irene is deciding to pull a party crashing move and spice up our weekend. Normally I am a fan of spice, but not this time. She is not on my good list, she is on the other list that starts with a "S" and ends with an "it". And there aren't many people on that list so she really sticks out. We have the most amazing bride getting married tomorrow in a gorgeous tented wedding, and Miss Irene is NOT on the guest list. Not to mention my darling best friend's bridal shower is on Sunday smack dab in the middle of the storm. Seriously, come on Irene. It looks like she's going to be a feisty one, so I thought I would show you what I am stocking up on in preparation for the big storm...

Basically, I plan to drown my sorrows in bloody marys and hummus.

Stay safe out there folks...

Inspire Me Pretty Georgia!

2011-08-25T11:54:00.000-04:00

My little peaches, it's time to inspire all of us at SMP with your southern style. SMP Georgia is hosting a board building contest of sorts - and I think each of you should take some time to build a little something pretty. It's good for the soul, I promise. Here is the peachy palette I whipped up...

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-08-23T08:16:00.000-04:00

How in the heavens have I not posted this pair of stunning shoes yet? They screaaammm Super Burbs and need to be on my feet immediately. Why oh why aren't they free? I would dance around the house like Doris Day if I could prance around in these puppies. Would you blame me?

via

For more pep For more check out {TRUE Event} {brancoprata} {magnolia rouge} {demoiselle} {meant to be sent} {simply & forever} {landlocked bride} {swatchbook weddings}{luna & chloe weddings} {merci new york} {enchanted dream weddings}

Garden Party Dreamin'

2011-08-22T18:32:00.001-04:00

I've said it once, I'll say it again - the Summer of 2011 is the fastest summer on record. Proven fact. Today I think I complained about it (to Otto, he's the only one here to listen) five times. It was just one of those days where it was absolutely gorgeous out, but I could feel fall in the air. And as much as I love fall and all that comes with it (hello pumpkins!), this year I am just not ready for it. So my mind is focused on all things summer, and today I am dreaming of a sweet, casually elegant garden party. With lushness all around,a country estate, fun pops of summery color and not a leaf in sight.


http://smp.gd/b/jok click for credits Don't you dare leave me summer. I'm not done with you.

Happy Weekend!

2011-08-19T16:05:00.001-04:00

Lordy, lordy another week has come and gone. I swear the days go faster in the summer time and I do not appreciate that one little bit. Regardless, I am going to make the most of the sand & sunshine this weekend, and I hope each of you lovelies do the same. Any fabulous plans?

the one, the only Jose Villa. I have a mad crush on this man.

Here are some pretty links from around that world wide web I am so fond of...

TRUE Event has a new website & it sure is pretty!

Records are the the new doilies

Mrs. Lilien makes hangovers look good.

My kind of tart

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WEEKEND to THIS fab lady...

Have a fab weekend! Miss y'all already!

xoxo, Abby

Where the Magic Happens

2011-08-18T13:00:00.002-04:00

Lately my mind has been on our bedroom. Decorating it, that is. The poor room has been 100% neglected since we moved in. We even use the duvet Mr. C had in his bachelor pad (for shame...I shouldn't admit this). This does not make me happy, but by the time I make my way up to our bedroom everyday I am so exhausted I literally collapse and could care less if we had spider man sheets. But this is changing. My fall goal is to transform that room into a place I can hibernate all winter. And I am collecting inspiration for a traditional yet modern look with a few monograms thrown in for fun. Also - do you have any recommendations for FABULOUS non-spider man sheets that won't put us in the poor house? I need an upgrade.

One thing I have decided on is that I will either paint (aka someone else will paint bc I have ZERO patience) this pattern or I will use this wallpaper for the wall our bed is on...

From there, I'm thinking this color palette because these colors make me happy and sooth my soul. And soul soothing is important in the bedroom. Am I right, or am I right?

via

And here are some of my favorite rooms. Can I tell you I know exactly what I want this room to look like? I have the perfect vision in my head. I can't wait to see it come to reality.

all via Lonny

Notice a bit of a trend? I LOVE big statement headboards mix with traditional bedding and a few loud pillows. And patterns. I. LOVE. patterns. I want this room to say, "Yea we are traditional old souls, but we like to party & travel the world." With me? Also, I am replacing our ceiling fan (Sorry Mr. C) for a chandelier (if I can ever find one I love and doesn't cost money).

Ok, what do you think? And where should I buy bedding? I want hotel worthy fluffy duvets and sinfully soft sheets.

Featured: Etsy + SMP + little ol me

2011-08-17T10:09:00.000-04:00

I remember when I first stumbled upon Etsy like it was yesterday. I do believe I got up an skipped around the house and then started to favorite things like a MAD woman. As someone that likes pieces that not everyone has and that are affordable, Etsy has changed my life. Anywho ... I just happened to get to write a little something for the folks at Etsy - a little SMP fall bride buying guide...so skip on over and take a look!

Check out my full feature HERE!

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-08-16T10:10:00.000-04:00

This picture makes me happy. Maybe it's the stripes, maybe it's the clean, crisp, white shoes or maybe it's the adorable wedding they came from. Whatever the case, they make this Tuesday pretty terrific. 

Jesse Leake Photography via Style Me Pretty

For more pep For more check out {TRUE Event} {brancoprata} {magnolia rouge} {demoiselle} {meant to be sent} {simply & forever} {landlocked bride} {swatchbook weddings}{luna & chloe weddings} {merci new york} {enchanted dream weddings}

Creative Kraft

2011-08-15T14:02:00.002-04:00

Oh So Beautiful Paper is such a guilty pleasure of mine. I'm pretty sure if you follow my blog this is no shock to you - for I love all things paper. There have been SO many stationery suites I've wanted to post from that pretty site in the past few weeks, but for some reason this one made me jump to hit publish. It's creative kraft paper goodness and to top it all off the bride & groom - Christine and Ian - designed them. Love that. I basically plan on stalking their blog until they get married now.

Photos via Christine and Ian

See even more here....

P.S. Yes - those little trees are pop up. CUTE.

Happy {Anniversary!} Weekend!

2011-08-12T08:53:00.000-04:00

It's been a year. On Sunday it will be a full year since I became a Mrs. to my Mr. C. I really don't see how that is the least bit possible, yet I am so thankful for another year of us as a team. Because really I can't imagine taking this world face-on with anyone else. This time last year there was a tizzy of excitement around the two of us - fabulous memories we will cherish forever and ever (and ever). And this year - it's going to be just the two of us, and I love that. We are escaping to the Ocean House for the weekend - the gorgeous place where our story hit a high note, and a place we will always (and have always really) treasure(ed). And although that day was BEYOND fabulous (still thankful everyday for it) the best thing about that day is the fact we - Mr. & Mrs. C - get to hang out for ever (and ever). I could give you all the wedding planning advice in the world - but the biggest piece of wisdom I could ever pass along is to find someone you want to spend every minute with, the person you actually look forward to being "bored" with, the person you enjoy doing absolutely nothing with - because although the high points are completely fabulous...you know you picked a good teammate when you love and long for the points in the middle. So Mr. C, here's to another year of so many more fabulous points in the middle...we are so lucky.

Leila Brewster - she is amazing.

Shower Me With Cuteness

2011-08-11T11:54:00.000-04:00

Oh.my.bridal.shower.fabulouness. Since the moment I spotted this pretty party over on Inspired by This, I haven't been able to get it off my entertaining-obsessed mind. Planned by Carolyn Chen of The Special Day and captured by Caroline Tran - it goes without saying that this bride to be is one lucky lady! You can see the entire shindig here...

Confession

2011-08-10T21:10:00.000-04:00

Today was a crazy day (hence no blog post until now) but I feel as though I must come clean on something... Today I may or may not have put my wedding dress back on in the middle of the day and walked around our house. Heck, it's our anniversary week - there has to be some rule stating that is this normal behavior...right? riggghttt?!

the one and only Leila Brewster

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-08-09T07:25:00.000-04:00

If you know me at all, you know I LOVE to travel. Rick Steves is my favorite show - half because I am jealous of all the fabulous places he gets to go, and half because my subconscious thinks I could do a much better job being a travel show host (sorry Rick). But that's neither here nor there. I love travel, and I think my brain spends half its time in Paris or the French Rivera on any given day. I also love shoes. So when you put travel and shoes together - well I obviously love that. I think I just might do this to a pair of shoes I have in the Super Burbs so I never forget to keep dreaming of places to travel...not that I have a problem with dreaming or anything...

via Ruffled

Make Me Blush

2011-08-08T08:28:00.000-04:00

Lately I've been obsessed with all things blush. The pretty little shade that teeters on the line of girly pink and potentially boring beige (although, I really love beige - so sorry beige for calling you boring, we have a long friendship). It's funny how a color can really make my heart flutter, and blush totally does. For instance - If Mr. C and I were ever to throw a 20th anniversary party (ps. our year anniversary is on Sunday...ummm how did that happen?) back at the Ocean House (not that I've thought about that or anything....) I think I would incorporate a blush color palette (with hints of gold). Another example, yesterday at brunch I basically stalked a girl in an awesome blush dress just to tell her I LOVED it...Mr. C had to literally pull me away from her (I'm usually not that embarrassing in public, but I had just run a half marathon in a straight monsoon - so I am going to blame it on being delirious).

Anyway, I love blush. I think that's pretty clear now.

via

via a la parisienne

via Elizabeth Anne Designs

via Style Me Pretty

via Design Seeds

via

via

via Bare Faced Minerals

via Atlantic Pacific

via

via net-a-porter

via Style Me Pretty

via Martha Stewart Weddings

via

Whoa! It's the Weekend?

2011-08-05T19:38:00.000-04:00

So sorry for my lack of posting this week. I have been lame-o in that category. Can I be 100% honest with everyone? I feel a bit deflated this afternoon. Have no fear, I am still flying...just a tad bit lower to the ground. Just one of them days, and I think it's good to be able to admit it every now and again. Don't you agree? This is by no means a pity party (unless that party involves champagne - then sign me up), it just means I might be indulging in a glass or three of wine this evening...and I guess when I put it that way, things are really pretty grand.

via the completely amazing, make any day better, genius of a photographer - Jose Villa

Anyone have stories of fabulous weekend plans to pick up my pep? What do you do to get out of deflated funks? My current remedy for the situation is going to be long Otto hugs, long convos with Mr. C over dinner, and wine....lots of wine. With that prescription, I should be back to normal by the morning! xoxo

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-08-02T13:53:00.000-04:00

I am going to be in complete denial when September comes around and fall starts knocking on our door this year. I am going to cover my ears and kick and scream circa me in 1988. Because this summer just hasn't been long enough and seems to have FLOWN by so far. I am banking on a very slow August to help me soak the rest of it in (which looking at the calendar won't happen). So mark my word, Tuesday Shoesdays in the Super Burbs will be full on summer style until my tootsies have frost bite. And why not add a little color into the mix like these puppies from Jcrew?

Summer of the Scarf

2011-08-01T14:09:00.000-04:00

Lately, I have been all about the head scarf. All about it. Partly because it allows me to not brush my hair for days and still look somewhat chic, and partly because it reminds me of the good ol days I never got to live through (though totally feel like I would have rocked those days). So now I am in a mad dash to find pretty ones from all over the land to stash away and maybe bring the trend into the fall. Know of any great scarf finds? Please do send them my way. My hair will thank you for it.

via

Happy {Polo} Weekend!

2011-07-29T09:26:00.000-04:00

Did you have a fabulous week? It was busy as can be over here (because of these beauties) so I am looking forward to a weekend to play catch up (our current laundry situation is borderline offensive). Mr. C is headed to a bachelor party today, so it's a just two member wolfpack weekend in the Super Burbs. To help me cope, Sir Otto is escorting me to a polo match in Newport on Saturday because he is fancy like that. I have to say, I am SO looking forward to it. We're getting all decked out in our polo party clothes, and will be ready to tailgate with the best of them. And with a date like Sir Otto, how can one go wrong?

credits available here

Hope y'all have a fancy weekend! xoxo, Abby

New LOCAL Blogs on SMP!

2011-07-28T10:00:00.000-04:00

That's right! Another batch of pretty as can be local blogs on Style Me Pretty! We have been busy little bees getting them ready to go live and guess what? Today is the day! So without further adieu - please welcome SMP Massachusetts, SMP Canada, SMP Illinois, SMP Georgia and SMP Australia!

Which state do you want to see next? Let me know! xoxo

Real Wedding: Meg and Halsey

2011-07-27T10:25:00.001-04:00

I typically save my real wedding gushing for my day job over at Style Me Pretty - but I had to make a special exception for this downright darling bride and her handsome groom. You see, her bridesmaid extraordinaire - Ashley - emailed me awhile back and thought it would be a fun surprise for Meg to just happen to stumble on her wedding while visiting the Super Burbs. (By the way, thanks for stopping by Meg!) How adorable is that? I was beyond touched - really. It's always so sweet to hear from readers (and I am still amazed people other than my mom read!) So my sweet, darling Meg - SURPRISE! I absolutely adore your wedding to pieces - all the images from Raycroft Art are timeless keepsakes, your style is unbeatable and your bridesmaid Ashley is a keeper :) Just look at these two cuties...

Besties are well...the best Ready for the rest?

From Ashley - the darling bridesmaid of the year... My good friend Meg, who is also a fan of yours and introduced me to your site got married this weekend at The Daniel Island Club in Charleston, SC. Meg is much like you and is a event planner, so needless to say the wedding went off without a hitch! The colors, navy, apple green and khaki looked beautiful against the golf course and marsh backdrop, it was just a perfect southern wedding, with a huge wedding party of 9 bridesmaids (myself included), 1 junior bridesmaid, 11 groosmen, 4 ushers, 1 flower girl and 1 ring bearer. We all had a blast! Meg is extremely detail oriented and she even stole your idea of the striped straws and stirrers, they added the perfect touch.

Meg and her (new!) husband Halsey are both from up north and met their junior year at the University of South Carolina and after 6 long years finally got engaged and married. Meg is originally from Connecticut and then moved to Massachusetts (where I am from). Meg and I did not know each other when we lived in Massachusetts, though we did live in neighboring towns, so when we met a few years ago, we had an instant friendship! After discovering we lived so close to each other in Massachusetts, we found out we both grew up vacationing in Watch Hill, RI! Needless to say when we saw your wedding video and discovered your blog, we were hooked! Infact, one of Meg's wedding presents was a weekend for her and Halsey to stay at the Ocean House!

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Photographer: Raycroft Art / Venue: The Daniel Island Club, Charleston, SC

For even more of this lovely affair check out Raycroft Art's blog post! Thanks Ashley for sharing this with me - we all need to meet for a cocktail or two on the Ocean House patio in the very near future!! xoxo, Abby

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-07-26T11:56:00.000-04:00

These Loubies spotted on Style Me Pretty today only need one word to describe them - FIERCE. All caps.

Image is Found via Style Me Pretty

Taking the Plunge

2011-07-25T21:12:00.000-04:00

Before I close this computer for the evening, I just had to make sure your pretty faces saw this E-mazing stationery suite featured on Style Me Pretty today. It just happened to be created by the bride herself and shot by Sarah Rhoads, so basically you know I was in invitation heaven. It's a modern, mixed with retro, mixed with organization, and I really think that might be the fastest way to my paper loving heart.

Sarah Rhoads via Style Me Pretty

Happy Weekend!

2011-07-22T10:13:00.000-04:00

Yes, yes - it's super hot out. Otto and I are currently working from my bed (he has important business matters to attend too) because we are blessed with central AC upstairs. Growing up in the south I used to think it would be crazy for houses to not have central air - but here in New England, so many of these pretty colonials rely on the gorgeous sea breeze to keep cool. This is something I never realized until moving up here. Lessons learned. But I digress. I think the heat is making me ramble - so I am going to sign off for the weekend. I hope you have pretty things planned!

Photograph, from 1954, via Conde Nast Digital Archive.

It's Getting Hot In Here

2011-07-20T10:28:00.002-04:00

Wowzas it's gonna be a hot few days. I personally love it (yes, even the humidity) because 9 times out 10 I am an ice box and the extra heat does this body good. However, the dog days of summer always has me a wishin' for a sweet pool, a comfy float and cocktail. So that is where my imagination is taking me today...

via Color Collective

via The Wedding Chicks

via Mrs. Lilien

Stay cool out there folks!!

P.S. This is TOTALLY happening in the Super Burbs tonight:

Southern Living via Erin Ever After

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-07-19T12:41:00.000-04:00

Because sometimes all you need is a few stripes and a nude pump to put the right dose of pep in your step.

One and Only Photography via Style Me Pretty

DIY Chevron Picnic Blanket

2011-07-18T09:35:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday! We had the BEST summer weekend. The.BEST. I wouldn't change a thing about it. Take that back - there is one thing I would change. I wish I had a chance to knock out this DIY chevron blanket before our beach adventures so we could sun in style. See how cool it turn out for Kathleen at Twig & Thistle? Although, other than the missing chevron blanket, I think we made the most out of one of our rare plan-free weekends. How was yours?

via Twig & Thistle

Happy Weekend!

2011-07-15T12:05:00.001-04:00

Oh folks, it's going to be a good weekend. Mr. C and I are going to venture out into the Atlantic with our little hooligan to Block Island tomorrow. Yes, we are taking Otto on a little day trip to jump some waves and drink some cocktails with us (his will be of the water on the rocks variety). We've been telling him about it all week, but he doesn't seem as excited about it as we are. Then again, he's never even seen a moped before so he doesn't even know all the fun he is in for. This little trip is going blow his puppy mind. And I secretly can't wait to be on an island with just my two favorite boys...I may never come back.

not Otto, but it sure could be...

Hope your weekend is just fabulous! Miss y'all already! Don't forget your sunscreen!

Pet Portraits by Two Brunettes

2011-07-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

This might be my FAVORITE post of all time. I am so in love with it. Probably because I love our dog Otto more than I should admit. But here I am admitting it. So here's the deal - when the I saw that the lovely Carolynn of Two Brunettes (who also made the Super Burbs so pretty with her darling web design) did pet portraits, well I just about died. And when said she would do a potrait of our little hooligan, I was so embarrassingly excited. I sent her a few pictures of our man in action and just couldn't wait to see what she came back with... the end result? Well, it's perfection. I think I shed a tear. Actually, let me just be honest - I did.

Pet Portraits by Two Brunettes

It captures his blocky man-head (as we call it) and his mischievous, Dennis the Menace-esque, hooligan smile so well. Mr. C replied within five minutes of getting the email of this image about how amazing it was (which, if you know Mr. C - that email response time to personal emails is NOT normal). For those of you dog lovers out there - you totally get it. For those without my crazy love for house-hold pets, please love me anyway for my blabbering about our furry guy. I'll get back to shoes and parties soon!

Anywhoo...it looks like our little handsome hooligan is making the new gallery wall in the Super Burbs. Thank you, thank you Carolynn!!

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-07-12T14:02:00.002-04:00

To me, you really can't beat a good boat shoe. I think even the classiest of closets needs some of these classic puppies. And I must say, Sperry is getting to be oh so stylish theses days and fancying up their standard styles. I particularly love when folks tie them up with a good ol' barrel tassel knot...

I recently picked up these sparkly puppies with a gift certificate and I was SO excited about them. My brain danced with fun outfits to pair them with and my closet immediately thanked me when I brought them home...

And then...

Otto decided the barrel tassel knot was SO yesterday and did this to them...

styled by Sir Otto

Think he was going for a vintage chic look?

Oh so Rosé

2011-07-11T20:38:00.000-04:00

This past weekend was just so fabulous I can't even put it into words. It was the bachelorette party of one of the loveliest ladies I know, and we celebrated with our closets friends from all over the country...you know - the group of girls that just get you and all that is fabulous (and not so fabulous) about you. The friends you no doubt just know will be there when you are 70 and discussing things you only discuss with this group of people. I really, truly hope everyone has a group of folks like these ladies. Anywho, there is so much more to say, but I need to get some beauty sleep - so I'll leave you with a little inspiraiton of the rosé variety - we tasted a delicious Anton Bauer rosé over the weekend and let's just say I left the wine tasting very inspired (and perhaps a little tipsy) after devouring it...

click here for credits

Ombre Baby

2011-07-06T11:21:00.000-04:00

Something is definitely in the water in the Super Burbs (and beyond) because every where I look new little ones are running around with their cute, chubby thighs and tiny toes. And although I am not on the baby train yet (or even at the station) spoiling the little ones and their new moms is one of my favorite things to do. So I am always looking for fun and unique gifts and these little ombre month to month onesies just had my heart strings the moment I saw them on On to Baby. How perfect are they for those precious first year photos? Bonus - they sell the entire year as a package :)

via On to Baby

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-07-05T15:07:00.000-04:00

Is it just me? Or is everyone in sort of a vacation weekend haze today? A good dose of vitamin D with a side of a days filled with barbeques will do that to ya I suppose. As you are settling into the routine of the work week, how about a little Tuesday Shoesday style to put a little pep in your step? This New Zealand wedding on Style Me Pretty today had style for miles - and the shoes on the bridesmaids? Adorbs. It might be just what you need to knock out your to-do list today...or just give you something to gawk over until it's quitting time...

Vela Images via Style Me Pretty

Happy {4th of July} Weekend!

2011-07-01T09:58:00.000-04:00

This weekend is in my running for the best weekend of the year award. Right up there with memorial day weekend and Christmas. I am closing this little computer for as long as I possibly can to help celebrate my love for America {ok and the beach} and get some R&R. We have plenty of sun planned, a very serious annual softball tourney, an engagement party I'm co-hosting for two of our favorite dudes who are tying the knot next year and a beach birthday shin-dig on top of all the 4th of July festivities. It's gonna be a good one. Happy 4th everyone!

via Pretty Stuff / via Style Me Pretty / via Style Me Pretty / via Martha Stewart / via Style Me Pretty / via Style Me Pretty / via Style Me Pretty / via coco + kelley

Inspire Me Pretty New York Part II

2011-06-29T08:15:00.009-04:00

We are at it again over at SMP New York! Another Inspire Me Pretty board building contest! I la, la, loved all the boards y'all created last time, so put your skills to work again this time around. Remember it can be any style, any budget - just something that is all New York. Be sure use the new board builder and tag your board Inspire Me Pretty NY. Don't be shy, I know y'all are some board-building babes. Here is something I whipped up just for the occasion...

The winner will be announced on Friday! Alicia over at The Charity Wedding won last time around - take a look at her full city glam board:

Tuesday Shoesday

2011-06-28T06:44:00.000-04:00

I am counting down the minutes to the 4th of July weekend like little kids (and myself) count down to Christmas. I.love.this.holiday. It's smack dab in the middle of the very best season of all filled with all of my favorite summer time activities. As I am writing this, we have 82 hours (or 4941 minutes) until the clock strikes 5pm on Friday and we are beach bound! So in honor of all of this excitement, here are a pair of shoes perfect for all the upcoming festivities. Even better? They are $39. Hooray for America!

via

The Lemonade Stand

2011-06-27T16:05:00.000-04:00

School is out and the Super Burbs has officially become the land of lemonade stands. On my run this afternoon, I swear there was one on every corner taunting me with their lemony goodness. So of course, immediately upon my return home I got to dreaming of a lovely affair based soley on that brightly-colored fruit. Whadda think?

for credits: http://smp.gd/b/21p

Sunday Bloody Sunday

2011-06-26T08:00:00.001-04:00

via

This is most certainly happening today. Happy Sunday Funday!

Happy Weekend!

2011-06-25T13:52:00.000-04:00

It's Saturday, the sun started to peak its pretty little head out and there are so many fabulous little things happening in the Super Burbs I just can't help but be happy. However a small side note: yesterday Otto had to have a bald spot shaved on his head due to an infection. I cried my little girl eyes out. Dear parents of the world with real children, you are amazing. I am constantly amazed by how you juggle it all (and your emotions) with a real live human. I love this silly little dog so much I felt like my head was getting shaved. He is still the cutest dog ever (of course) but I think his ego is a bit bruised. And that just crushes my little heart. I may or may not have let him in the bed this morning. Shhh....Alright, enough story-telling, I am going to head out with Mr. C & our bald-headed beauty to our little back patio and enjoy the sunshine! Have a fab weekend!

via