Archives for December 2017

HOLIDAY GIFT-GUIDE: WHITE ELEPHANT EDITION

Good evening friends and happy Thursday! I know that I published a gift-guide last night but I have another one coming your way today! I wanted to go ahead and get this up in the event any of you are heading to a Christmas party over the weekend! I’m not sure where you land on the white elephant fence, but more often than not I lean towards picking gifts that I can actually use. I don’t mind getting silly gifts and sometimes I’ll even pick one out myself, but typically I stick with something a little more usable as evidenced by the items pictured below! So without further ado, let’s take a peek at some of my favorite white elephant gifts!

**And as always, I will list and link everything down below!**

* 1. “Most Likely To” Game – $16: If you’re looking for a fun game to play post gift exchange, this might be the way to go! Get to know the people you’re partying with and gear up for a night full of laughter and cheer!

* 2. Slant Collections ‘On Cloud Wine’ Stemless Wine Glass – $12: I think a set of these stemless wine glasses would make a great gift…and if you’re really feeling festive you could throw in a bottle of wine to put it over the top! NOTE: Slant Collections has a wide variety of glasses available so if this saying isn’t for you there are plenty of other options to choose from!

* 3. Nostalgia Retro Series Pop-Up Hot Dog Toaster – $14.92: A hot dog toaster…count me in! How fun is this?! I love hot dogs, they are easily one of my favorite foods and I think this would be a fun, non-traditional gift that anyone would be happy to receive!

* 4. Harry Potter Coloring Book – $11.86: In the interest of full disclosure my cousin gave me this idea! However with that being said, I am huge fan of adult coloring books and think they are the perfect combination of fun and practical! They come in a variety of options, so if Harry isn’t for you, I’m confident you can find something that is! P.S. Don’t forget to throw in a set of colored pencils!

* 5. BP. Pompom Cable Knit Beanie – $15: A classic pom beanie is perfect for this time of year; it’s warm, chic and ultra affordable. Seriously, I’m hoping one miraculously shows up under my tree this year!

* 6. SRL Selfie Ring Light – $10.98: I don’t know about y’all but I need all the help I can get when it comes to my selfie game. I have seen these portable ring lights everywhere and while I’m not sure that I’ll buy one for myself, I wouldn’t hate getting one as a gift!

* 7. BP. Leopard Print Scarf – $19: I’m a firm believer that you can NEVER go wrong with gifting a scarf. Seriously, who wouldn’t want this?! If leopard isn’t your style, don’t fret, Nordstrom has a slew of other color/pattern options that would work just as well. You can find a couple of my favorites HERE and HERE!

* 8. Urban Outfitters Mini Waffle Maker – $18: GUYS!!! I can’t handle the cuteness. A mini waffle maker is something I never knew I needed…until now! This comes in 4 different colors and is under $20 bucks…that sounds like a win-win to me! NOTE: The color shown above is turquoise!

* 9. Atlanta Falcons Living Large Micro Throw Blanket – $14.99: David and I got this at a white elephant party recently and it inspired me to include it in my own gift-guide. It’s just the right size, warm and super affordable…you can’t really go wrong! NOTE: This item is currently on sale for $14.99 and will go up to $29.99 on 12/16.

* 10. Women’s Reindeer Slippers – $15.80: Yaaasssssss! I’m a sucker for cute, cozy, novelty slippers and these certainly fit the bill! If you’re looking for something a little more wild and crazy, a fun pair of unicorn slippers would be a great option as well!

* 11. Urban Outfitters Disco Cactus Sipper Cup – $12: A rose gold cactus cup, where do I sign up?! This has a locking lid, a curly straw and is made with BPA free plastic, aka, it’s a winner! This would be great for festivals, pool days or just being extra while relaxing around the house!

* 12. Kate Spade New York All In Good Taste Coasters – $20: Everyone can use a nice set of coasters…am I right?! This is another one of those things that I like having around but never buy for myself (please tell me I’m not the only one that lives like this?!). I love the simple design and clever phrases and think these would be great for your next white elephant party!

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I hope you guys enjoyed this post and were able to find some fun white elephant inspiration! Do you go for more usable/practical gifts or do you prefer to keep things light and silly?!

-B

 

HOLIDAY GIFT-GUIDE: THE WANDERER

Happy hump day friends, I hope your week has gotten off to a great start! Today I’m back with another installment in my gift-guide series; if you or someone in your life loves to travel, then this post is for you! This list includes things that I already own as well as a couple of items that I’m hoping Santa might leave under my tree! As always I will list and link everything below, so without further ado, let’s get into this!

* 1. Sole Society ‘Alanzo’ Vegan Woven Weekender – $89.95: This is the perfect bag for a weekend away with the girls! It holds all of your essentials plus a little more! It’s chic, affordable (for what it is) and offers a good amount of space without being too bulky!

*2. Tartan + Twine ‘Caitlin Grove’ Double Zip Train Case – $22.50: I don’t know about you but I think travel makeup cases make great gifts; it’s something I always need but never buy for myself. This train case from Tartan + Twine features a zippered brush compartment on the top as well as a bigger compartment on the bottom for palettes, foundations, powders, skincare, etc.! NOTE: This is currently on sale at ULTA for $22.50 (originally $30).

* 3. Rockland Luggage ‘London’ 3-PC Hardside Spinner Set – $118.99: I mentioned this on my Gift-Guide For Her (HERE) but couldn’t pass up mentioning it again. This normally retails for $450 dollars but is on sale at ebags for just under $120. It features 3 hardside spinners and would make a GREAT gift for the traveler in your life! Seriously…how stinking cute is this luggage?! If this style isn’t your cup of tea, ebags has a slew of other brands/styles/colors to choose from! NOTE: The color shown above is Champagne!

* 4. Sole Society ‘Millie’ Oversized Tote – $64.95: An oversized tote is a necessity when I travel. I like knowing that I will be able to fit everything I need (and then some) with NO problem. I love this tote from Sole Society because it has the perfect amount of space and it zips closed….which when travelling is a MUST for me!

* 1. Rebecca Minkoff Passport Holder – $45: Ahhhh! How cute is this passport holder!? I love the rose gold color and the message on the front is just too perfect! NOTE: This is also available in black (on Nordstrom’s website) and silver.

* 2. Zella Live In High Waist Leggings – $54: I love these leggings. They fit TTS, aren’t see through (at least for me), suck me in and are perfect for those relaxed travel days! If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, I SWEAR by THESE (these also fit TTS and come in a variety of colors/styles).

* 3. Wit & Delight Travel Wallet – $19.99: I saw this wallet in Target a couple of weeks ago and thought it was the cutest thing ever. It holds your passport, credit cards, ID and also has a spot for cash/checks. However if you’re looking for a solid color option, I received THIS travel wallet as a gift a couple of weeks ago and I’m obsessed!

* 4. The Magnolia Story – $13.49: It’s no secret that I don’t read often, however I ALWAYS carry a book with me when I travel…especially via plane. I’m obsessed with Chip & Joanna Gaines and can’t wait to dive into their story!

* 5. Nike Women’s Sportswear Summit Full Zip – $60: I carry a hoodie/zip-up jacket no matter where I’m going. Planes are ALWAYS cold (at least to me) and I prefer a more cozy feel when I’m traveling long distances in the car. I sized up in this jacket to have a more relaxed fit and love the way it looks! The high low design makes it perfect for leggings and BONUS: it’s currently on sale for $60 dollars! NOTE: It comes in 4 different colors!

* 6. Wit & Delight 2-PC Luggage Tag Set – $7.99: You can never have too many fun luggage tags! love this 2-piece set from Wit & Delight and think it would make a GREAT gift for the wanderer in your life.

* 7. Adidas Swift Run Sneakers – $63.74: Sneakers are an absolute MUST when traveling and Adidas has knocked it out of the park with these bad boys! I’ve tried them on and they are SUPER comfortable and fit TTS. This is one of those items I’m hoping Santa leaves under the tree for me! *fingers crossed* NOTE: They come in a variety of colors and are currently on sale at Finish Line!

* 8. Bose SoundTrue Ultra In-Ear Headphones – $79.99: A good pair of headphones can save a flight…at least for me. Even if I’m not listening to music I put them on/in my ears to drown out the background noise coming from the plane. I prefer an in-ear option because they are easier to travel with, however if you’re an over-the-ear lover, THESE are great too! NOTE: Both pairs of headphones are currently on sale! Yaaassss!

* 9. S’ip by S’well 15oz Insulated Water Bottle – $24.99: As much as I hate drinking water (I’m trying to do better), I always try and carry a water bottle with me when I travel. They are easy to fill up and save you from spending $363267 dollars on bottled water at the airport! NOTE: This works for both hot and cold drinks! NOTE 2: Target has a variety of color/pattern options.

* 10. Women’s Cozy Llama Socks – $3: I always keep an extra pair of warm socks in my purse when I travel. I find that my feet get extremely cold when I’m on a plane and when my feet are cold, It’s impossible for me to get warm. These are cute, warm and incredibly affordable…you really can’t go wrong!

* 11. Skinny Dip Glitter Manicure Set – $24: This one might seem a little weird but I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been out and about and needed a nail file/nail clippers. I think these make great gifts because it’s something you need but never think to buy for yourself. Also, the packaging is super cute!

* 12. Wit & Delight TSA Travel Bottle & Jar Set – $7.99: What can I say, the Wit & Delight travel line from Target is everything! They have practical products that are stylish and affordable. I don’t know about you, but this set is MUCH cuter than what I’m currently working with! It comes with a TSA compliant clear bag, 3 TSA compliant liquid bottles and 2 cream jars! Eeeekkkkkkk, so cute!

* 13. Brookstone Hooded U Travel Pillow – $24.99: Yaaassssssss! A neck pillow with a hood, maybe now I’ll actually get some sleep on my next flight! It features a soft jersey-knit fabric and comfort that won’t quit! This would be great for long flights and car rides alike! I’ve tried this out and if neck/travel pillows are something you’re into, I would 1000% recommend this!

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I hope you guys liked this post and found some gift inspiration for the wanderer(s) in your life! I’ll be back tomorrow with a White Elephant Gift-Guide…so stay tuned!

-B

THE SNOWMAN TAG

Happy Tuesday friends! I thought I’d do something a little different tonight and bring you a fun Christmas tag! With the holidays RIGHT around the corner, there are a slew of festive tags floating around, and while I try not to do TOO many of these posts, I thought this one would be fun! Thank you to Maggie of Dreaming of Guatemala for tagging me to participate, and if you haven’t already, check her out! She’s generous, kind and incredibly inspiring! So without further ado, let’s talk about all things Christmas!

THE SNOWMAN TAG

  1. (Body): How many snowmen have you made? Oh gosh, in my 30 years of life, probably only 4-5 . I live in the south so our snowman weather is pretty non-existent. Granted we did get about 2.5 inches last Friday & Saturday so that was fun; but typically we just get that gross freezing rain/ice mix.
  2. (Head): What’s your favorite Christmas memory? I can’t pick just one so I’ll give you a few. When my mom and my best friend’s parents got us second row floor seats to see The Backstreet Boys (seriously, I’ll never forget that moment), any Christmas where my grandma was still with us & meeting David’s family on Christmas Day (no pressure) 5 years ago!
  3. (Carrot nose): What’s your favorite vegetable for Christmas dinner? Ummmm…I like all veggies.
  4. (Buttons): If you have a Christmas jumper, what does it look like?! Well I’m glad you asked; I have a SLEW of Christmas sweaters! I have one that I stole from my Aunt Hollie with a sequin-y Nutcracker on it (thanks Big H), a Drake Hotline Bling Christmas sweatshirt, a  snowman sweater with a puffball for the nose and the buttons, a light-up reindeer one and a Santa one that has fuzzies on the hat! If you can’t tell, I’m obsessed with all things Christmas!
  5. (Stone smile): What makes you smile the most during the winter? Holiday decorations and if i’m lucky, snow!
  6. (Stone eyes): What do you watch at Christmas? Well, again, I’m glad you asked! I’ve watched every cheesy Hallmark Christmas movie approximately 2478325 times…and I will keep watching them. However aside from those, I ALWAYS watch Home Alone, The Holiday (which I have yet to watch this season), Love Actually (swoon), The Santa Clause (1&2), The Grinch, A Charlie Brown Christmas & all of the old-school claymation movies! <3 <3
  7. (Twig arms): Have you ever made a snow angel? Of course I have! I love doing that…even at 30 years old!
  8. (Gloves): What’s your tactic in a snowball fight? Hmmm, I don’t know if I have one. I haven’t been in very many snowball fights; that whole freezing rain/ice mix makes snowballs pretty hard to come by. But I guess if I had to pick a tactic, I would try and shield my body with as many bushes as I could find while waiting until my opponent looked away to gather more snow and then attack! (Of course I never aim at anyone’s face).
  9. (Hat): What kind of hat do you have? I have a beanie with a pom on the top!
  10. (Scarf): What’s your favorite Christmas preparation? Putting up my Christmas tree/decor and wrapping presents!

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I hope you guys enjoyed this quick little holiday tag, and I hope to see you all back here tomorrow. If you’re looking for gift ideas for the Jet Setter in your life, then you won’t want to miss tomorrow’s post!

-B

CALIFORNIA WILDFIRE RELIEF

Happy Sunday, friends; I’m sure many (if not all) of you have seen countless images floating around of the catastrophic damage the wildfires in Southern California have caused . However for those of you who haven’t, I will save you the heartbreaking photos and just tell you that the damage is widespread and incredibly severe. Families have been displaced, animals are scared and people are losing their homes. At a time where our world feels more divided than ever, I urge you to lend a hand and help our friends in California that have been affected by this tragedy. I know when it comes to donating money people are very particular about the organizations in which they choose to support, as they should be. We should all be diligent in our efforts to ensure that our support gets to the people and communities that need them the most. With that being said, I have created a list of organizations that are accepting donations and will leave their information below! And while monetary donations are certainly needed, that isn’t the only way to help. Food, water, toiletries (just to name a few) and PRAYER are also incredibly helpful at this time.

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  • United Way of Ventura County – The United Way of Ventura County, the Red Cross of Ventura County and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services have teamed up to create the Thomas Fire Fund. If you are interested, there are several ways to donate; by calling 805.485.6288, texting UWVC to 41444, visiting the website linked above or by mailing a check to 702 County Square Dr. Ste 100, Ventura, CA 93003. NOTE: If you are mailing a check, be sure to include “Thomas Fire Fund” in the memo line!
  • The American Red Cross – The Red Cross has set up 3 shelters in the area for families who have been forced to evacuate their homes. There are an estimated 600+ people being housed on the grounds and are in need of donations and resources. You can donate by visiting the website linked above, by calling 800.733.2767, or by texting REDCROSS to 90999.
  • The Salvation Army – The Salvation Army Ventura Corps has set up shop at the Ventura County Fairgrounds and is asking for food, water & monetary donations (though they are also distributing clothing and toiletries). You can donate in person at 650 S. Petit Ave. Ventura, CA or online by clicking the link above.
  • Ventura County Community Foundation – The VCCF has created a disaster relief fund which helps organizations that are providing shelters & housing, legal services, education and healthcare to the victims of the wildfires. You can donate to the VCCF by visiting the website linked above.
  • California Community Foundation – The CCF has also created a wildfire relief fund. The organization supports immediate and long-term relief efforts for California wildfires, as well as ways to prevent them in the future. The fund provides services to those who have suffered long-term physical and mental health problems as a result of the fires and also helps those who have displaced rebuild their homes. You can donate to the CCF by visiting the website linked above.
  • The Humane Society of Ventura County – The HSVC has taken in roughly 300 animals and is in need of donations of alfalfa hay, timothy hay and water troughs. If you or someone you know is in the area, they are also looking for volunteers who can assist with cleaning kennels & cages and keeping the animals fed! They are also accepting monetary donations at the website linked above.
  • The Antelope Valley Fairgrounds – The Antelope Valley Fairgrounds are accepting animals in conjunction with LA County Animal Control. They are accepting donations of food and water and are taking animals from house cats to exotic creatures. They are located at 2551 West Avenue H, Lancaster, CA 93536. If you are interested, call 661.948.6060 to see how you can help! NOTE: I linked their Facebook page above as they are providing in-depth updates through that platform!
  • YouCaring – The crowdfunding site has numerous fundraisers for families and victims who have lost their homes during this tragedy. You can visit the website linked above to read about and donate directly to specific families.

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If you know of any other organizations that are providing relief and recovery services, leave their information below and I will update this list as needed! I appreciate you guys taking the time to read this post and if any of you (or your family) are in or around these areas, please stay safe and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. xoxo

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer”

Romans 12:12

-B

HOLIDAY GIFT-GUIDE: FOR HER

Happy Tuesday, folks! Today I’m back with another highly requested gift-guide for you guys! I took a poll over on my Instagram (@britteabe15) and asked people what they wanted to see next and a TON of you wanted to see a gift-guide for her…so that’s what we’re gonna do today! If you voted, THANK YOU so much, I really appreciate it. If you were one of the folks that didn’t care at all about seeing this particular GG, don’t fret, I have some other ones coming soon! So without further ado, let’s jump into the goodies!

**As always, everything will be listed and linked below**

* 1. 52 Week Gratitude Journal – $11.99: Sometimes it’s hard to remain grateful every day when things around you seem to be falling apart but a gratitude journal is a GREAT way to keep you accountable. Life is messy, hard & sometimes downright crummy but there is ALWAYS something good in every day, I truly believe that. I use a gratitude journal daily and it has really helped change my perspective on a variety of things in my life! This journal is from an Etsy shop called Inspire Your Art and would make a great holiday gift for anyone in your life! NOTE: It’s currently on sale for $11.99 (originally $19.99), so if you’re interested, snag it before the price goes up!

* 2. Sole Society Lacie Oversized Weekender – $84.95: A good weekend bag is a must for every girl. I love this one from Sole Society because it’s big without being too big and comes in this beautiful cognac color. If you’re someone who prefers a separate compartment for your shoes, THIS one is a GREAT option! NOTE: This also comes in black!

* 3. Sole Society Camimila Smoking Slipper – $69.95: GUYS! These are everything. If you have a friend/in-law/mom/sister that loves some sparkle, find her size and buy these! I’m obsessed! I would recommend going up 1/2 a size and giving your feet a few days to adjust (like with all flats), but after that, it’s smooth sailing! NOTE: The color shown above is Light Champagne. NOTE 2: They come in 7 colors/patterns.

* 4. YSL Mon Paris Perfume – $78.80-$103.70: You can never go wrong with a nice bottle of perfume. I’ve been loving YSL’s Mon Paris for months and I’m crossing my fingers that there’s a bottle with my name on it come Christmas morning! NOTE: This is currently being price matched at Nordstrom and is 15% off.

* 5. Pottery Barn Faux Fur Slippers – $20: How cozy are these faux fur slippers?!? They are perfect for this time of year and would make a GREAT gift; I sure wouldn’t mind a pair! If you’re looking for something with more of a hard sole, THESE UGG slippers are all the rage right now. If you’re looking for something a little more budget friendly, THESE & THESE are great options! NOTE: The Pottery Barn slippers come in 4 different color combinations. NOTE 2: They are currently on sale for $20 (originally #29.50).

* 6. J Crew City Coat – $129.50: Y’all J Crew Factory is having a major sale right now and everything is 50% off including this coat. I love this for the cooler months ahead and think it gives a polished and chic look to any outfit. NOTE: It comes in 7 different colors and some sizes/colors are selling out fast! NOTE 2: This is currently on sale for $129.50 (originally $228) so if you’re interested, snatch it up ASAP!

* 7. Ello Campy Travel Mug 16oz Stainless Steel – $16.19: If you have a coffee/tea drinker in your life, a good travel mug is always a nice gift idea! I love this design from Ello Campy; It’s fun without being too busy and works for both hot and cold drinks!

* 8. The Lauren Hobo Wallet – $128: I swear by these wallets, I’m now on my second one and I can honestly say they are the best! Yes, I know $130 dollars is A LOT of money to spend on a wallet, but guys, they last a crazy long time and are worth every penny! NOTE: They come in a VARIETY of colors/patterns/fabrics! PRO TIP: You can oftentimes find certain colors (like THIS one) on sale at Nordstrom Rack, so if you’re interested, make sure to scour the web for a bargain!

* 9. Sperry Saltwater Core Duck Boots – $59.55: Holy sale! These typically retail for $100 dollars but I found them for just under $60 bucks on westmarine.com. If you or someone special in your life has been eying these bad boys, now’s the time to snatch them up!

* 10. Printed Quilted Puffer Vest – $34.95: This is a J Crew Factory best-seller and I can’t totally see why. It’s warm, has deep pockets and is incredibly chic! If you’re interested, grab it while it’s on sale, it WILL sell out!

* 11. Baublebar Ice Queen Crystal Statement Necklace – $68: Do you know a statement necklace lover? If so, this is for you! This piece from Baublebar will take any outfit to the next level and is sure to turn heads when you’re out on the town!

* 12. Pottery Barn Faux Fur Robe – $90: I know what you’re thinking, $90 dollars is too much money to spend on a robe, and you know what, 3 weeks ago I would have agreed with you. However I made a little pit stop into Pottery Barn after the Thanksgiving holiday to see what all the fuss was about and I fell in love. This is quite possibly the softest and coziest robe I’ve ever had the pleasure of feeling. It’s a bit of a splurge, but it’s worth EVERY penny! NOTE: There are 4 color options available. NOTE 2: It’s currently on sale for $90 (originally $129).

* 1. BP. Boucle Plaid Triangle Scarf – $24: An easy gift that keeps on giving! If the women in your life are ANYTHING like me then they are always down for adding a new scarf to their collection! This one from BP. is affordable, cozy and easy to pair with just about anything!

* 2. Le Specs ‘No Smirking’ 50mm Sunglasses – $79: A good pair of sunnies always make a great gift! Obviously this style isn’t for everyone but I’m a sucker for anything tortoise! If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, THESE are for you!

* 3. Glam Glow Supermud Set – $69: This is a great set for the skincare junkie in your life. Seriously, this is going on my Christmas wishlist ASAP! For just under $70 dollars, I would 150% recommend this!

* 4. Baublebar Andorra Crystal Hoop Earrings – $36: If you’re looking for a more decorative set of earrings, these are for you! They are classy, affordable and super chic!

* 5. Alex & Ani North Star Charm Bangle – $28: These make such GREAT gifts! There a variety of styles and color combinations to choose from and they feature a very affordable price tag…that sounds like a win to me! NOTE: This also comes in silver.

* 6. Olivia Burton Big Dial Bracelet Watch – $150: I couldn’t put together a gift-guide for her without including a watch, I’m sure you’re not surprised! This gem from Olivia Burton is simple, chic and can be paired with a variety of outfits. If this style isn’t your cup o’ tea, you can find some other favorites of mine HERE & HERE!

* 7. COACH Selena Gomez Grace Bag – $276.50: How gorgeous is this red color for the holiday season?! I had no idea that Selena Gomez & Coach did a collab (clearly I’m late) but I love it! I love the shape and style of this bag and the mixed fabric (leather and suede) gives it just the right amount of texture! NOTE: This is currently on sale for $276.50 (originally $395), so if you’re interested, now would be the time to snatch it up!

* 8. Rockland Luggage 3-PC Hardside Spinner Set – $118.99: GUYS. THIS IS NOT A DRILL!!!! This luggage set typically retails for $450 dollars and is on sale for just under $120. Eeekkkkk! I think this would make a great gift for your mom, in-laws or even your sister. NOTE: This comes in a VARIETY of colors options. NOTE 2: The color shown above is Champagne

* 9. Spanx Faux Leather Leggings – $73.50: The leggings that every blogger under the sun has talked about. They are comfortable and look great dressed up or down! They come in 4 colors and sell out crazy fast! You can find the Moto option HERE. NOTE: Sizing = TTS. NOTE 2: They are currently being price matched at Nordstrom (originally $98) so if you’ve been eyeing them, now’s the time to snag em’!

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So that wraps up my gift-guide for her! I hope you enjoyed this post and found some shopping inspiration! Stay tuned for the next installment in my Holiday Gift-Guide series coming later this week!

-B