Year in Review: 2017

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 30, 2017
This past year has been a whirlwind! There have been a lot of changes, experiences, and excitement that have occurred throughout the year. Looking back over the past 12 months, I'm reminded of how blessed I am. Below, I'm recapping my year, filled with my top 8 experiences of 2017.

Gift Guide for the Christmas Fanatic

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 23, 2017
It is officially two days until Christmas and I am so excited! I can't wait for my family to all be together, opening gifts, listening to music, and enjoying the magic of Christmas. If you're on the hunt for that final gift but can't decide what to get, this gift guide is sure to help. For those in your life that love Christmas, get them something perfect for the season.

Gift Guide for the Cozy Girl

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 22, 2017
Does anyone else just love being cozy? There's something so great about coming inside from the cold winter weather, putting on comfy clothes, and having some cocoa. If you know someone like me that loves all things cozy, this gift guide is for you!

Gift Guide for the Home Decorator

in , , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 20, 2017
Today's gift guide is inspired by my mom. She is a home decorator-extraordinaire. She has made our family's home cozy, warm, and stunning. If you also have a home decorator in your life, then this guide is for you!

Gift Guide for the Bartender

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 17, 2017
Since I work for an alcohol company, it's only fitting that I share a gift guide fit for a bartender. My dad recently built a bar in his basement and it looks stunning! The only thing missing? Some of these great accessories.

The Best Ugly Christmas Sweaters

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 15, 2017
Happy National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day! I've now had two occasions where I've been able to wear one: the first, at an Ugly Christmas Sweater Brunch; and the second, at my work's pub night last night. It was so fun to see everyone's sweaters. In honor of this national day, I'm sharing my favorite holiday sweaters I've seen this season. And, as an added bonus, I've paired matching Christmas earrings with each.

Gift Guide for the Tea Lover

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 14, 2017
I am such a tea granny! Every day when I get home from work, I sit down and have a cup; and continue until I go to bed. My favorite is Tetley breakfast blend with milk and sugar. It's something I've grown up with, as my parents and grandparents always drank tea. I'll always remember having tea with both of my grandmas - it was our own little tradition. Today's gift guide is inspired by them, my favorite tea lovers.

Gift Guide for the World Traveler

in , , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 12, 2017
I definitely have the travel bug! Ever since high school, I've been lucky enough to travel around the world with my family, as well as friends. I've been to places including Mexico, Paris, Amsterdam, Jamaica, and just recently, Barcelona. Exploring new places and cultures is something I love. Today's gift guide is for all of my fellow travel-lovers!

My Winter Shopping Essentials

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 10, 2017
Two days in a row, I've woken up to snow on the ground. I think that means it's officially winter. In honor of the first frost, I'm sharing my winter shopping essentials. Everything from cute gloves to tweed skirts, this list will help you update your wardrobe to fit the new chilly temps.

Weekend Recap: Christmas Festivities

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 07, 2017
This past weekend was the perfect way to kick of the Christmas season. I checked off three of my to dos in three days - visited the Morton Arboretum's Illumination, went to Chicago's Christkindlmarket, and hosted a table at an Advent Tea. It was a great first weekend of December spent with friends. 

Gift Guide for the Christian Girl

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 06, 2017
This next gift guide is one of my favorites! My faith in Christ means so much to me, so having the opportunity to help someone else's grow is beautiful. This gift guide is centered around just that: giving the Christian women in your life something to encourage their faith.  

My November Recap & December To Dos

by Lavender Elizabeth, December 05, 2017
Happy December everyone! This may be one of my favorite months because it means Christmas is upon us; and I love Christmas. For me, it means family, joy, and the celebration of my Savior's birth. 

November was a very busy month for me. Between my mom's fundraiser and Cup of Cheer, I basically went to work and came home to help. December has already been more social for me than last month and it's only the fifth. Below is a recap of my to dos, as well as my fun December list.


Complete my personal prayer challenge by praying for someone in my life each day in November.
Again, I got so behind in this, that I just stopped. I fully plan on completing this challenge in the new year, though!

Apply to an open Human Resources position within my company.
After talking to the hiring manager, we decided it would be better to wait for an upcoming position to apply to.

Organize my closet to make room for chilly weather clothing.
If nothing else, my closet became more disorganized because of stashing things for Cup of Cheer.

Spend time with one of my childhood best friends.
She's coming this month, too! Love working for the same company as her.

Take Christmas card photos for a friend (and reward ourselves with lunch afterwards).
It was so fun! Both her and her pup had three outfit changes, all of which were adorable.

Help my mom with the finishing touches for her fundraiser.
Everything went so well! My mom is a rockstar when it comes to fundraisers.

Take time to thank God for everything he's given me during Thanksgiving.
You can read my thankful thoughts here.

Enjoy having my room decorated for Naperville's Cup of Cheer.
I have the cutest tree in my room - it has teacups on it to match my collection.

Plan my Advent Tea table decor.
I went with a cozy-Christmas feel, complete with plaid and snowy trees.

Plan a girls' night with friends.
Our girls night will happen this month!
 


Start reading The Message: SOLO Women's Devotional with two of my friends.

Create gift guides to help in your holiday shopping.

Visit the Morton Arboretum's Christmas light display, Illumination.

Have an ugly Christmas sweater party with friends.

Explore the Christkindlmarket in downtown Chicago.

Host a table at an Advent Tea.

Have a blast at my first company holiday party.

Attend my church's Christmas Eve service.

Spend quality time with my family during Christmas.

Plan something fun to do for New Years Eve.

Have a wonderful December everyone!
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Gift Guide for the Baker

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, December 01, 2017
Happy December everyone! To kick off the official start to my favorite time of year, I'm sharing the first of many Gift Guides to inspire your holiday shopping.

First up: The Baker's Gift Guide. I am someone who isn't exactly a fan of cooking, but I do love to bake! Today's guide is intended for people in your life like me - those who know what to do with some flour and an oven.

My Christmas Wish List

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, November 25, 2017
It is officially one month away from Christmas, which means shopping begins! I absolutely love to give gifts. Find something that so perfectly fits another person brings me so much joy. My family always says that there is so much thought and intention behind my gifts, and it's true. I take my time and really think about what would make the other person happy. It's one of the reasons I love Christmas so much. It's a great excuse to buy a special something for those in my life.

Thankful Thoughts this Thanksgiving

by Lavender Elizabeth, November 23, 2017
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope that your day is filled with friends, family, and some delicious food. I couldn't let this day pass without sharing what I'm most thankful for at this time in my life. It can be so easy to get wrapped up in the start of the holiday season, so I wanted to make sure I set some time apart to remember all that I have to be thankful for.

Thanksgiving Table Ideas

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, November 21, 2017
This may be an unpopular opinion, but I'm not a big fan of Thanksgiving day food. I know, I'm weird. However, I do love decorating for Thanksgiving! The event planner in me loves any excuse to transform a table, particularly when it involves fall decor. I love the colors, the feel, and the natural looks that come with autumn decorating. 

Today, I'm rounding up my favorite table decor ideas perfect for your family this Thanksgiving.

My Fall Shopping Essentials

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, November 09, 2017
Is fall anyone else's favorite season? I just love everything about it - but most of all, I love the fashion. Dressing for cooler temperatures is the best. You can rock chunky sweaters with a light jacket; flannels with a warm scarf; or neutrals with a pop of navy. Here are the twelve essentials I think everyone should have in their fall wardrobe.

8 Simple Ways to Decorate for Fall

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, November 08, 2017
Every year, my mom decorates our home for fall - and I love it! She has a fall wreath on the front door, fall florals on the table, and unique pumpkins around the house for added decor. For my own home, I need simple decor; maybe a cute pillow here or a DIY pumpkin there. Today I've rounded up eight of my favorite fall decor ideas - all of which are simple, but leave a lasting impact.

My October Recap & November To Dos

by Lavender Elizabeth, November 04, 2017
I am so excited that it's officially November! This is one of my favorite months. The weather is finally chilly, the leaves have changed, and it's one month closer to Christmas. Who else is excited!?

Below: my October recap and November To Do List


Complete my personal prayer challenge by praying for someone in my life each day in October.
I got very behind very fast, so decided to move this "to do" to November (see below).

Participate in fun fall activities.
I went apple picking, bought new fall clothes, made applesauce, and celebrated Halloween.

Make homemade applesauce.
You can find the tasty recipe here.

Have all the dog cuddles I want while my parents are in Italy.
Loved this time with my pups!

Buy cute pedestals to finish my Aynsley China display.
It looks so good! I'm so happy to finally have a place to display my collection.

Go on my first business trip (to Montreal).
Just got back yesterday!

Enjoy the last month of my human resources internship.
Starting on Monday, I'm moving into my new role.

Watch the fall premieres of my favorite tv shows.
The Big Bang Theory, Criminal Minds, Riverdale, and One Chicago were fantastic!

Spend time fostering friendships within my Bible study.
I spent some quality time with these ladies this month and loved it (and them)!

Celebrate Halloween.
Spent the weekend in Chicago as Blair Waldorf.


Complete my personal prayer challenge by praying for someone in my life each day in November.

Apply to an open Human Resources position within my company.

Organize my closet to make room for chilly weather clothing.

Spend time with one of my childhood best friends.

Take Christmas card photos for a friend (and reward ourselves with lunch afterwards).

Help my mom with the finishing touches of her fundraiser.

Take time to thank God for everything he's given me during Thanksgiving.

Enjoy having my room decorated for Naperville's Cup of Cheer.

Plan my Advent Tea table decor.

Plan a girls' night with friends.

Have a wonderful November everyone!

Halloween Weekend Recap: Chicago

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, October 31, 2017
Happy Halloween!

For the past couple of years, I haven't done anything special for Halloween; I'm not even sure I've dressed up. This year, however, I finally celebrated, costume and all. A group of girlfriends and I headed to Chicago for the weekend to celebrate Halloween in style. Our first stop was a River Booze Cruise, then on to the bars in downtown. When I convinced my sister to join us, we knew we had to do a best friend costume. Enter, the Serena to my Blair.

Fall Fashion: Statement Necklaces

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, October 24, 2017
Fall weather has officially hit here in Illinois and I am so psyched! Fall is my favorite season, for both the cool weather and the fashion! I am totally a chunky sweater and jeans girl. Turning that look into one that's appropriate for work - now that's something else. How do I dress up my fall sweaters for work? Statement necklaces! Below are my top 7 colors formalize your chunky sweaters this season.

My Barcelona Trip - Part III

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, October 21, 2017
Our final day in Barcelona was amazing. We planned to spend the first half of our day in Barceloneta and the second half on Montjuic Hill. The downside of the day - I got absolutely fried! But it was so worth it to spend the morning on the beach, taking in the Mediterranean Sea. Below is the recap of our final day in Barcelona.

My Barcelona Trip - Part II

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, October 16, 2017
The third day of our Barcelona trip was my favorite day! We signed up for a bike tour and I'm so glad we did. Biking around different parts of Barcelona was a unique way of seeing the city. Below is a recap of all the things we saw and did on our third day of our Spanish adventure!

My Barcelona Trip - Part I

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, October 08, 2017
A week ago I returned from my Spanish adventure with one of my best friends from college, Marie. The two of us spent our time in Barcelona and it was amazing! We packed all we could into four days, and I truly feel like we saw everything on our list. Barcelona was different than other European cities I've been to; it didn't feel as old-timey as I was expecting. Their main architect, Antoni GaudĆ­, really put his mark on the city, with intricate details and ornate designs. Below is a peak into our first two days touring around the city.

Recipe: Brown Sugar Applesauce

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, October 06, 2017
When apple picking last weekend, we were on the hunt for tasty apples to make homemade applesauce. This week, I finally got around to making mine. To give it some added flavor, I decided to use brown sugar instead of regular white sugar - and it's delicious! To make your own, you only need five simple ingredients and a slow cooker.

Fall Activity: Apple Picking

by Lavender Elizabeth, October 05, 2017
This past weekend, I kicked off the month of October by going to an apple orchard. My small group ladies and I went to Jomanac Apple Orchard in Malta, IL. The weekend we were there, they had a food truck festival, as well as their regular apple picking, apple cider, and live music. While there, I enjoyed an apple donut sundae, chilled apple cider, and brought home some tasty apples and honeycrisp wine. Spending time with these ladies is always such a blessing in my life. We drank cider, ate donuts, and had a mini photoshoot (featured below is a blogger friend, Kat of Ramblings of a 20 Something), but most of all, we bonded. We laughed, we talked, we shared. I couldn't have asked for a better start to fall.


On to the next fall adventure!

My September Recap & October To Do List

by Lavender Elizabeth, October 03, 2017
This month was so busy! Of the five weekends in September, I had something going on for four of them. I went to a concert, coordinated two weddings, and traveled to Barcelona. I feel like I really embraced my goal of being as social as I could be this month. Hopefully in October, I'll combine my joy of being busy with my current need of some serious R&R. 

Below: my September recap and October To Do List.


Have a Labor Day BBQ.
We had a classic family BBQ, complete with hamburgers and hot dogs.

Celebrate Southern Magnolias' one year anniversary.
You can read all about our first year of business here.

See Dan + Shay live in concert.
I thought I loved them before, but now, wow!

Hang wall accents in my bedroom.
Still need to buy ⅔ of my wall decor.

Successfully coordinate two weddings for Southern Magnolias.
The first one I did completely solo and the second I had my partner-in-crime.

Explore somewhere new in my city.
I went to candlelight yoga at Emerson Creek in Oswego with friends.

Watch Game of Thrones for the first time (I'm six episodes in and loving it).
Still loving it; now I'm on season 5.

Renew my passport.
Fastest trip to Canada I've ever made.

Create a fun and adventurous Barcelona itinerary.
It worked so well to have a basis for our week.

Travel to Barcelona with my best friend!
What an incredible experience. I cannot wait to tell you all about it!



Complete my personal prayer challenge by praying for someone in my life each day in October.

Participate in fun fall activities.

Make homemade applesauce.

Have all the dog cuddles I want while my parents are in Italy.

Buy cute pedestals to finish my Aynsley China display.

Go on my first business trip (to Montreal).

Enjoy the last month of my human resources internship.

Watch the fall premieres of my favorite tv shows.

Spend time fostering friendships within my Bible study.

Celebrate Halloween.

Here's to a beautiful October!

10 Ways to Encourage your Best Friends

by Lavender Elizabeth, September 12, 2017
I have been blessed by some incredible friends in my lifetime. Some have lasted since I was eight, others are new and becoming so special. Something that I've always loved doing throughout my friendships is finding little ways to show them I love them. Sending little gifts in the mail, a quick SnapChat, or hosting a girls night - I get such joy out of it. In honor of today being National Day of Encouragement, I'm sharing some of my favorite ways to encourage my best friends. Check out my top ten below! 


SEND SOMETHING IN THE MAIL.
Whether it's a little note or a care package, getting something in the mail is always so much fun.

PRAY FOR THEM.
Sometimes the best way to encourage someone is to do it in private.

SEND THEM A LITTLE "INSTA" LOVE.
Everyone loves a sweet comment or a like, especially from those you love most.

CREATE SOMETHING.
If you have a creative gift, like calligraphy, knitting, or painting, use it to create something special for a friend.

BRING THEM COFFEE.
A little pick-me-up in the form of caffeine.

REMEMBER THEIR BIRTHDAY.
Send them a little birthday love as they turn another year older.

TELL THEM YOU LOVE THEM.
Simply hearing the words from your best friend can make the world of difference.

GIVE A SINCERE COMPLIMENT.
Love their outfit? Love their baking? Tell them!

SEND AN ENCOURAGING BIBLE VERSE.
Encouragement through the Word is as good as it gets.

SHOW UP FOR THEM.
Be there for opening night, watch their pet when they're away, or go over for a movie night. Find a way to show up in their lives.

What are your favorite ways to encourage your besties?

Southern Magnolias: One Year Anniversary

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, September 05, 2017
One year ago today, Bethany and I debuted Southern Magnolias - our wedding and event design business. This past year has been incredible. Working with my sister has been the most gratifying experience. We've been able to collaborate, design, and do business together, growing us in both friendship and creativity. Throughout this year, we've coordinated two weddings, styled six photoshoots, been published four times, styled a conference, consulted on an elaborate bridal shower, and now have two more weddings, back to back, later this month. To celebrate these past twelve months, here's a look at the work Southern Magnolias has accomplished in our first year of business.

My August Recap & September To Do List

by Lavender Elizabeth, September 01, 2017
I think I say this every month, but August just flew by! I can't get over how fast this summer went. But let me tell you, I am so excited for the start of fall! This next month is going to be busy, but incredible. Before we get into what's happening in September, here's my August recap.


Continue to go to Bible study and bond with other Christian ladies.
Loving this group so much! Aside from doing our study, we've gone for dinner, been to Top Golf, and went to church together.

Start physical therapy for my shoulder and ankle.
This is something I still need to start. Hopefully I'll get to it next month!

Head back to Urbana for a weekend (and maybe pack up more of my stuff).
It was so nice to spend some time with my sister, as well as my friends, while visiting.

Apply for a full-time HR role at my company.
I applied for an HRBP Specialist role, it got down to the two of us, but sadly, they chose the candidate with more experience. Crossing my fingers for the next one!

Be published twice for two separate photoshoots with Southern Magnolias.
Our Vibrant Cranberry Shoot was published on The Perfect Palette and the second half of our Pink Boho Shoot was published on Borrowed and Blue!

Start Reading a book off of my Christian Growth Book list.
I started Wait and See by Wendy Pope - it's an interactive book which I love.

Update Southern Magnolias' website with our latest weddings and photoshoots.
We'll be blogging our updates this month!

Return to my nighttime routine of reading, journaling, and praying.
It's been so nice getting back into this routine and reconnecting with God.

Buy a light blue bed skirt (and some matching accessories).
Decided against the blue bed skirt, but bought some great blue accessories!

Try out some different hairstyles with my new short 'do.
Tried out three simple styles and this month, I'm going to try curling and straightening it.


Have a Labor Day BBQ.

Celebrate Southern Magnolias' one year anniversary.

See Dan + Shay live in concert.

Hang wall accents in my bedroom.

Successfully coordinate two weddings for Southern Magnolias.

Explore somewhere new in my city.

Watch Game of Thrones for the first time (I'm six episodes in and loving it).

Renew my passport.

Create a fun and adventurous Barcelona itinerary.

Travel to Barcelona with my best friend!


Have a wonderful September everyone!

The Reason Why I Wear a Purity Ring

by Lavender Elizabeth, August 29, 2017
"A purity ring is kind of like baptism in that it's an outward example of an inward commitment."

Four years ago today, I started wearing a purity ring. And yes, if you're doing the math, that made me 21. It's not exactly common to see a 21-year old make that kind of choice. It was bold, but something I felt very called to do. I'm often asked why I chose to wear one at 21 and why I continue to wear it at 25. Today, I've decided to share with you the reasons I wear a purity ring through two prayers I made four years ago.


From the night I made my decision:

August 23, 2013

Dearest Lord,

For a while now, I've been thinking about my physical boundaries within a relationship and what it means to respect and serve you in that way. Last night on my way home from Ian's, I got an overwhelming feeling that I needed something tangible to show my decision to wait for all physical interaction (outside of kissing) and I still feel that way. Lord, I've decided to wear a purity ring in honor of you and that commitment. You've truly shown me your faithfulness, love, and grace, and I want something close to my heart to always remind me of that.

In your honorable name,
Amen

The prayer I made over my ring the night I began wearing it:

August 29, 2013

Dearest Lord,

I bought my purity ring today and I love it!

When I wear this ring, I want it to give me a sense of peace and be a reminder that I'm loved. When I look at it, I'll be reminded of the promise that I'm making to you tonight. I'll feel grounded in Christ and in the grace you have for me.

Tonight, I promise this to you: I will remain pure until I'm married. For me, this purity means anything physical past kissing. All things that I've done in the past are not forgotten, but are a reminder of what I don't want to do in another relationship. This ring will remind me of that, along with the clean slate that begins with this ring. I promise to give all my sexual and impure wants to you so that I can overcome them through you. This is my promise to you, Lord.

Whoever the man is that you've chosen for me, please be with him. Allow him to rely on you through his own struggles and to remember your overwhelming grace and forgiveness.

As Psalms 51:10 says, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; renew a steadfast spirit within me."

In your name,
Amen

Four years later and I'm still just as sure of my decision. Each day, I look down at my hand and am reminded of the grace Christ has shown me. I know that I'm taken care of and that I'm saving something incredibly special for my husband. I'm proud of my choice.

Happy four years, ring!

National Rum Day: PiƱa Colada Punch

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, August 17, 2017
When I found out that yesterday was National Rum Day, I knew I had to celebrate (even if it was a day late). I love piƱa coladas - they just scream vacation - but sometimes I don't want to take the time to blend a drink. My solution? PiƱa colada punch!

Three Things You Should Do to Get a Better Night's Sleep

by Lavender Elizabeth, August 11, 2017
Sleeping is one of the best things you can do for your body. It increases your mental health, allows your body to self regulate, and helps with your daily production levels. I am, by nature, a night owl. I tend to get more done when the clock strikes nine, but am slowly realizing the difference it makes when I go to bed before 1AM. Working full time is a whole new ball game for me, so sleep is extra important to my productivity and alertness at work. If you need a little help in the sleep department, too, then you'll definitely want to add the following three things into your nightly routine. 

25 Things To Do at 25

by Lavender Elizabeth, August 07, 2017
Today, I am officially 25 ½, so in honor of my half birthday, I'm sharing my 25 at 25 list. If you've been reading this blog for a while, you know that I'm really into lists! There's something so fun about having a set of goals to complete and, of course, checking them off. Today's list is everything I want to complete before I turn 26. Some things I've already started checking off, others I still have to finish within these next six months. Without further ado, here is my list of 25 Things To Do at 25!


Rent a car (without the added under-25 fee).

Start saving for my retirement.

Take a trip to another country.

Find a form of exercise I actually enjoy.

Practice being charitable.

Live alone for the first time.

Start a career I'm passionate about.

Get my own medical insurance, a part from my parents.

Learn to cook at least three meals that are staples in my diet.

Find a community of women to do life with.

Spend a week in California visiting my friends.

Drink water everyday.

Learn to play a new game.

Go to a dermatologist to get my moles mapped.

Spend more time outdoors.

Continue to invest in growing Southern Magnolias.

Consolidate my closet to reflect my current style.

Keep a prayer journal.

Decorate a space to truly make it my own.

Check off books from Christian "Must Read" list.

Take a weekend trip to a new city.

Continue to build up my savings.

Curate my Instagram and build up my blog.

Attend a minimum of five concerts.

Visit my endocrinologist and gastroenterologist.

Anything you think should be added to my list?

My Favorite Bridesmaid Dress Styles

by Lavender Elizabeth, August 05, 2017
In preparation for today's bridesmaid dress shopping adventure, I decided to do some research. If you didn't know, my sister is getting married and I'm her Maid of Honor! Throughout my research, there were six styles that stood out to me. I love subtle details that add something special to simple dresses, floral patterns, and beautiful necklines. Our bridesmaid's dress scouting trip was a total success! I tried on a couple styles - and I loved them!

Here are all of my favorites:

SUBTLE DETAILS

FLORAL PATTERN

RACER FRONT & BACK

UNIQUE BACKS

FLATTERING V-NECKS

RUFFLE DETAILS

What are some of your favorite bridesmaid styles?
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Weekend Recap: Caitlin's Wedding

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, August 03, 2017
This past weekend I took a trip to Southern California for one of my best friends' weddings. I flew in on Friday and left Sunday evening, so it was a short trip, but so worth it! Below is a recap of my weekend.

My July Recap & August To Do List

by Lavender Elizabeth, August 01, 2017
Can you believe that summer is almost over!? These last two months have flown by. Today I'm recapping my July To Dos and sharing what I want to accomplish in my last full month of the season.


Finish decorating my bedroom.
I've created the layout and bought some fun pieces, but still haven't finished.

Connect with old friends.
I caught up with some high schools and even met one of them in Irvine (where I met her beautiful baby girl).

Start journaling again.
I bought a new journal, but that's as far as I got.

See fireworks at least twice.
Yes! I actually saw them three times and I was in heaven.

Start working out with Blogilates and My Fit Coach.
I was doing so well, but then somewhat came to a halt. Going to start again though!

Start my new thyroid regimen.
I did not. But today, on August 1, I'm starting!

Start drinking water with the help of the iHydrate app.
I've seen a difference in my skin!

Buy a cold shoulder white dress.
This has been the hardest thing to find! I should have starting looking in June.

Attend Intersect at my new church to meet other young Christian adults.
Yes! I even tried out two Bible studies.

Attend my best friend's wedding in California.
Such a beautiful wedding, so full of love! (I'm sharing all the details on Thursday.)


Continue to go to Bible study and bond with other Christian ladies.

Start physical therapy for my shoulder and ankle.

Head back to Urbana for a weekend (and maybe pack up more of my stuff).

Apply for a full-time HR role at my company.

Be published twice for two separate photoshoots with Southern Magnolias.

Start reading a book off of my Christian Growth Book list.

Update Southern Magnolias' website with our latest weddings and photoshoots.

Return to my nighttime routine of reading, journalling, and praying.

Buy a light blue bed skirt (and some matching accessories).

Try out some different hairstyles with my new short 'do.

Have a wonderful last month of summer!
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My Summer Nail Polish Picks

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, July 29, 2017
I absolutely LOVE having my nails done! I always feel so pretty when my nails are painted; I look more put together and professional, but still have fun pop of color. In the summer, I love trying new shades! This summer, I'm really into pinks, corals, and blues. Here are my top seven colors to try out this summer!

My Summer Shopping Essentials

in , by Lavender Elizabeth, July 26, 2017
There are certain items in the summer that I wear all the time. White jeans, jeweled sandals, and sunglasses are stapes in my wardrobe. Today, I'm sharing all twelve of my summertime shopping essentials. We're about halfway through summer, so why not add some items to your closet?

The Bloom Workshop: Recap

by Lavender Elizabeth, July 22, 2017

It's been a year, almost to the day, since I attended The Bloom Workshop: La Petite Bloom in Holland, Michigan. It was two months before we launched Southern Magnolias, so Bethany and I were eager to learn as much as we could before joining the wedding planning world. This experience was so useful! Over the past year, styled shoots have become some of our most popular business, having organized four to date with another happening on Wednesday. The premise of this Petite Bloom was to teach the attendees about styled shoots, so it was invaluable to us. There were three separate shoots set up for us to photograph, along with a Q&A with the vendors and an information session about styling and submitting. Each time we've submitted, we've referenced what we've learned from this workshop - and it's worked every time! We've been published on Artfully Wed for our Jewel Toned shoot; Cake and Lace for our Bright Boho shoot; and in August, our Lush and Elegant shoot will be on The Perfect Palette. We're so proud of the work we've accomplished this past year and it all started with this workshop.

I'm so excited to finally show you the images that I took while at La Petite Bloom! I hope you enjoy them!

Vignette #1: Bright and Joyful

Vignette #2: Light and Lavender

Vignette #3: Soft and Natural

Vendors:

Vignette 1
Venue: The Felt Mansion in Holland, MI; Florals: BLOOM Floral Design; Invitation Suite: Sable & Gray; Bar: West Michigan Rental Company; Ring Box: The Mrs Box; Rings: Susie Saltzman; Bridal Gown and Jewelry: Spring Sweet; Cakes and Desserts: Holland Cakery

Vignette 2
Venue: The Felt Mansion in Holland, MI; Florals: The Days Design; Invitation Suite: Silver Fox Calligraphy; Chairs and Tabletop rentals: West Michigan Rental Company; Linen: Mrs Freund and Co; Ribbon: Adorn Company; Ring Box: The Mrs Box; Bridal Ring: Susie Saltzman; Bridal Gown and Jewelry: Spring Sweet; Cakes and Desserts: Holland Cakery

Vignette 3
Venue: The Felt Mansion in Holland, MI; Florals: Spring Sweet; Invitation Suite: Shine Wedding Invitations; Table and Chair rentals: West Michigan Rental Company; Tabletop and Glassware: West Elm Grand Rapids; Ribbon: Adorn Company; Ring Box: The Mrs Box; Bridal Rings: Susie Saltzman; Bridal Gown and Jewelry: Spring Sweet; Cakes and Desserts: Holland Cakery

To learn more about the Bloom Workshop and attend one in your city, click here.
© Lavender Elizabeth · THEME BY WATDESIGNEXPRESS