Snowy White Inspiration

By Lindsey Muth, Contributing Writer 

Tis the season for icicles, snow angels, and blankets of white powder right outside your door (unless you live in Tucson like me, then just be quiet and pretend). Blustery December weather inspires crisp white fashion, a favorite "white" fragrance, and of course white chocolate for dessert!

All Saints can do no wrong (did someone say new favorite brand? Ummm, yep!) and this Caradon Jacket does everything right. Someone bundle me in this, please!

Christmas wish to look amazing while lounging? Let me introduce you to the Accordion-Pleat Pant by American Apparel. You'll become good friends.

Accessorize in snowy white, like these edgy Geometria earrings from Betsy Jewelry Design.

The package may be pink, but the fragrance is as purely delicious as newfallen snow. My grandma's signature scent and now my own, the classic (and affordable) White Shoulders.

When Dean and Deluca hired Felicity you fell in love. Now rekindle that romance with these Black & White Caramel Apples .

Then settle in for a long winter's nap with The Tea Spot's "Snowflakes" White Tea.

Mmmmmm, winter!

Danielle's Christmas Wish List

I love Christmas! It is my favorite time of the year. This year is extra special for Coach and I! 

We just rented out our home we own in Florida, and packed everything away for our move to Toronto, Canada right after Christmas. This year more than ever, it is about family, and spending every last minute we have with our family that we live in the same city with. Our move to Toronto will be without family, so it makes this season extra warm with knowing your family is right here with us for the Holidays. These items below are actual items on my Wish List this year. I can't wait to be in freezing cold weather, and to work from home with a hot cup of tea to sip on! 

I can't wait to hear what your favorite picks are for your list! 

Check out what is on my list!

Hunter Wellington Boots

Personalized Monogrammed Cashmere Feel Scarf

A Parsons Desk with Drawers   

 

Tassimo Hot Beverage System 

Tory Burch Fur Boot with Buckles 

DKNY Quilted Nylon Hooded Jacket with Faux Fur Trim

 

Michele Ladies Watch

Happy Holidays to you all!

I wish each and everyone you a very Merry Christmas!

Remember, the most important thing this Holiday season is His birth!



Love,

Danielle

Etsy Featured Designer: Elegance for You! Plus a giveaway!

A few weeks ago we came across a super unique jewelry shop on Etsy that we immediately fell in love with - Elegance for You. The pieces are ones you won't see at your local retail store - that is the best part! They are handcrafted with style by Anna and we just adore all of her pieces - it is hard to just pick one! Read on to get to know the designer a little bit more and to WIN her favorite pair of earrings. 

We love the pink! The Fuchsia Jade & Pink Crystal Necklace ($25)  is perfect for any season! 

1.) How did you begin Elegance for You?

A little over four years ago I took a jewelry class with a friend as a hobby. I enjoyed making jewelry so much that I  made a few pieces that night and decided to bring them to work to show my coworkers. They loved them so much that they purchased them from me! I was so excited!

After that I decided to do some craft shows, at local churches and High School's, I was getting lot's of compliments and sales.  Six months later I had my jewelry at  a couple of shops, and still do.

Then in February of 2009 I heard on the radio about Etsy and decided to check it out. Few weeks later in March I opened my Etsy shop.  

Anna in her work space! 

2.) Do you have a favorite item in your shop? At the moment I'm loving the Isabella earrings.

3.) What inspires your creations? Mostly nature, colors and different textures.

4.) Besides your shop - do you have any other favorite Etsy shops? 

I have a few. I love Emilygrayjewels , Kotibeth & Lunaessence.

5.) What is up next for Elegance for You? 

I'm working on a few shows and getting ready for Christmas, making lot's of new items.

Give your ears a little shimmer with the Shimmer & Metallic Earrings ($10) 

This perfect little shop full of inexpensive but great quality items is the place to go for yourself or for those last minute holiday gifts! The prices are to great to pass up. We just adore Elegance for You! 

All About Elegance for You

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Read on to WIN Anna's favorite earrings! The Isabella Earring -- one of our faves too! 

Jenny's Frugal Christmas List

By Jenny Ford, Contributing Writer

Editors Note: You are going to laugh really hard. Be prepared. 

I’m throwing my pennies in every wishing well I see and making massive wishes ::closes eyes real hard and crosses fingers::  I hope Santa Baby noticed I was over-the-top well-behaved this year and will be showering me with a bunch of lavish gifts.  I know my list might be a little extreme, but why can’t a girl wish big? 

I’d love to replace the bread maker I’ve been mourning the loss of for a year now.  I used to throw the ingredients in and be on my merry way (yes, they are THAT easy) – and in a few hours – voila – yummy carbiness.  I am sure my bum is not missing it, but my tastebuds are relentless in yearning for another one (and homemade pizza dough).  And this is why my first pick is a breadmaker, by “BAM!” Emeril. (True story: I’m pretty sure the hubs has tried to buy me one several times, and I’ve told him that he cannot buy me appliances as gifts, so I asked my mom.  HA!)

I ALWAYS love getting makeup.  Maybe it’s because all the amazing gift sets are out and I do not splurge very often.  It’s like a princess’s dream to have millions of shades of blue, green and pink eye shadow (that you’ll probably never use, but you’ve got it just in case!).  My favorite selections for gift sets are:  Stila’s Holiday Lip Glaze Collection. I am a huge lover of their lip glazes.  Why you ask? Because in Colorado my staple is Chapstick – not glamorous at all.  Stila does NOT dry my lips out like everything else I’ve tried.  I adore it and hold it close to my heart…um, I mean lips. I can’t get enough of the vibrant colors for nail polishes…my inner goth can totally make its appearance with this line of Sephora by OPI mini collections -  I can use the colors and by the time they’re sooooo last season, they will be gone!  I’m excited to try “Teal we meet again” on my toes.  And lastly, who wouldn’t love to be “Box Office Sensational” while donning your new lids, cheeks & lips with Lorac’s huge travel case full of fun .I could spend an entire afternoon creating looks for myself with this baby.

I’m a very giving person during the holidays.  That’s why I like to treat my hubs to a gift (I’m pretty selfless….and humble too).  Because we have to keep “Santa” happy -  I’d choose a sassy little number like this one…and of course I would look like this in it too, because I’m going to stop eating….NOW!

I’ve been eyeing this little guy since I received Juicy Couture’s catalog about a week ago.  This gift would really knock my socks off. Not only is it a gorgeous diamond encrusted “J” that can be added to my Juicy tracksuits, but it is also my initial and I can add it to a necklace too.  I think it’s a totally realistic add to my list, right?  It’s practical, if I happen to get lost at a mall with amnesia and forget my first initial.  (I will justify anything)

As I got dressed this morning I decided of a practical gift for myself.  Something my wardrobe is missing and could desperately use – a pair of Leopard print heels.  Like these by Vince Camuto -- I’m kinda particular about the print from the leopard – it’s my pickiness coming out.  But I really like this one and I think it will bring out my inner-cougar.  RAAAWR!

 

I’m don’t consider myself a sappy person, but I do love to love, love…Make sense?  So why not wear it on my chest with this sweet little number by Etsy.com designer Aziza Jewelry.  It’s a precious little Sterling Silver necklace that I think will continue to bring love to me.  Oh my gosh, I AM a sap!

I’ve gotta list something for my sweet tooth.  My sweet tooth is massive…about the size of my mouth and it LOVES some good chocolates, cakes, candies, well, pretty much anything with sugar in it.  I’ve been wanting to try these Marshmallow and Caramel treats by Hammonds Candies here in Denver. The display at our local Whole Foods is enormous and it’s my fantasy to get locked in the store and sit and lick it all. I’ve been to the candy factory tour, (mouth watering the whole time), but didn’t get myself any caramels.  What was I thinking? 

I believe that if I wish REAL hard Santa will leave me one of these under my tree.  Or just outside the house would work too…    No biggie, just a Range Rover.  HA!  Since going to meet up with the CupcakeMag ladies, I fell in love with Angela’s Rover (ya, me and the Rove are on nickname basis now).  I had no idea it would be so posh and so roomy too (see it IS practical!)… And that’s why I think my good behavior this year warrants a nice big Range Rover.  What do you think?  (I know, far-fetched…but again, a girl can dream big!)

I hope you all have a fabulous holiday season!  I know my marshmallows (errr…I mean family) and I will be cuddling by the fire and enjoying time with each other – I hope you do the same!

Angela's Christmas Wish List plus a GIVEAWAY!

I get so excited to share gifts I love with others! These are actual items on my Wish List this year. I am known for my practical picks (as you will see by desire for gym clothes).  However, I've also been known to request a couple of "splurge" items.  Let me know what your favorite item is on my list and I will personally select a random reader to receive an Essie Sweet Mini 4 Pack (pictured below):



Nordstrom

Essie Sweet Mini 4 Pack

Colors:

Lollipop, Rock Candy and Mint Candy Apple nail & 3-Way Glaze nail treatment

Apple

iPad Keyboard Dock

$69.99 (Apple is offering free shipping on this item)

I adore my iPad, and this little accessory will be such a great addition to my Apple family!

Saks

Graphic Image - Personalized Sleeve for iPad (I chose pink!)

Sale Price $ 82.50

This is perfect for those who do not want to deal with the "fixed" Apple iPad case, which has to be removed when using the Apple Dock station.

Lucy

Perfect Core Pants

$98.00

Perfect Core Knee Pant

$88.00

Boyfriend Gym Tee

$28.00

Burberry

Check Stole

$450.00

So chic and versatile. This was the "splurge gift" on my list this year!

Layla Grace

Clairebella Cell Phone Case

$ 52.00

This is an amazing product! You design your own case to your taste. With three different font options and countless colors to choose from, you can't go wrong. This is an exceptional gift for the Preppy person in your life! Did I mention you can order cases for the following products: iPhone 3G & 4G, iPod Touch, Blackberry Bold and Curve!

Sephora

Nars

Orgasm Lust Lip and Cheek Set

$30.00

I have yet to meet a Fashionista who can't wear this shade!

Bobbi Brown

Modern Classic Lip and Eye Pallet

$75.00

I'm a loyal Bobbi Brown user. I rarely stray from her products. This little pallet is perfect for girls on the go!

Bath and Body Works

Slatkin & Co. 3 Wick Candle

$19.50

My ALL-time favorite scent is Creamy Nutmeg. I stock up when they run their promotion,  2 for $20. These also make terrific Hostess gifts!

Michael Kors

Hamilton Quilted Satchel in Gunmetal

$ 318.00

This bag looks chic, but doesn't carry the hefty price tag. By the appearance, I imagine the inspiration for this handbag came from the Hermès Birkin and the quilting of Chanel.

Saving the Best for Last:

Neiman Marcus

David Yurman Waverly Cable Bracelet

$1,450

We have so many people to buy for (and to be honest, I would rather give, than receive) so the Yurman bracelet is most defintely a wish...wishful thinking!

Happy Holidays!!!

Angela

cupcakeMAG: Home Edition with Anders Ruff Custom Designs! (something free is included!)

Thanksgiving is now behind us and everyone around has their mind on the fabulous holiday season! Since the entertaining season is in full-swing we were eager to share with you Anders Ruff Custom Designs -- they are all about custom printable invitations and coordinating graphic party accessories! 

We just had to share the latest "Winter Wonderland" Design Collection with you. Everything in their printable Winter Wonderland Collection was used to personalize and accessorize this dessert table that is well, simply fabulous! 

This printable collection could appeal to anyone celebrating Christmas or Hanukkah.  A focus on silvers, blues and whites makes this table feel both elegant, festive and light.  With silver being a very popular tone at this time of year, this collection is both versatile and something that will be in style for years to come.

Here is all the info on everything about their latest collection from Maureen Anders and Adria Ruff, founders and designers for Anders Ruff Custom Designs! 

Accessories/Decor:

- Our backdrop is a white on white striped fabric with silver woven threads which we adorned with mica glittered snowflake ornaments.  We used silver stripe wrapping paper to cover the walls to the left and right of the table to add interest.

- The focal point of the table is a glittered pine cone tree, to give off the look of a fresh snowfall.

- We used various silver wrapped gifts to height to the desserts at the back of the table.  

- Smaller gift boxes that were layered with patterned paper and silver sparkly ribbon sat in front of each of the “height” boxes.  We wanted the table to feel like it was full of gifts, while displaying the desserts in a clean and classy manner.

- Silver serving platters with rhinestone edge detail were lined with our patterned papers to bring in the blue tones from the collection.

- The back row of the dessert table held square dishes with “ric rac” edging.

- Wine bottles bottles wrapped with our printed favor tag/label were embellished with silver cording and logos from our collection. 

- Miniature chocolate bars were wrapped in our printable mini candy bar wrappers.

- Modern glass VOSS bottled waters were decorated with festive printable wraps.  (We loved the silver lid to those bottles!)

- We printed a “Let It Snow” banner and wove through silver ribbon and pale blue ric rac.

- We also show a photograph of the table with a unique favor or gift item from Persona Gift Pail.

Food & Desserts

- Snowflake Sugar cookies from Allyson Jane and Scrumptious Swirls were placed on silver and rhinestone serving platters lined with printed patterned papers.

- Sugar Crystal frosted donuts from Dough A Deer were stacked and printed flags were placed in the center of each stack.

- Cream Cheese Cupcakes were adorned with beautiful Sugar and Wafer Paper Snowflakes from Sweet Petal Bakery.

- We make white chocolate covered pretzel wreaths and then drizzled them with white chocolate going zig zag to give more of the “snow” affect. (This is a DIY project)

- We made light blue white chocolate snowflakes to place on top of cupcakes as well. (This is a DIY Project)

- Non Perils, Snowflake Lollipops, Wrapped Mini Chocolate Bars and Lindt (light blue/silver wrapped) truffles were served.

About The Graphic Design Collection

This is a printable design collection that will offer any host or baker the ability to personalize items used and presented at a winter or holiday party.  Several light blue tones are incorporated throughout the collection, making it easy to coordinate with any blue, white or silver party ware that a hostess might be using.

All the Sources! 

- Table Styling and Printable Graphic Design Package by Anders Ruff Custom Designs

- Sugar and Wafer Paper Snowflake Cupcake toppers from Sweet Petal Bakery 

- Snowflake Sugar Cookies by Allyson Jane Designer Desserts

- Snowflake/Bell/Polkadot Cookies from Scrumptious Swirls

- Cupcake Liners from The Cupcake Social

- Gift pail from Persona Gift Pail  

Anders Ruff is offering 50% off the printable DIY collection until December 15th! ($10 instead of $20!)

The Printable Winter Wonderland Design Collection can be purchased at their etsy shop! They are also offering a FREE printable set of designs that coordinate with this collection.  Included are party logos, recipe cards and food tags. Check them out here. 

All things Anders Ruff

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We just LOVE pretty things! 

Etsy Featured Designer: Home Edition

With the holidays around the corner we wanted to share one of your not-so-average Etsy shops we love. Dress up your home with AZ Creative Studio! Have a friend who loves to decotate? This would be the perfect place to grab a gift too. Check out the shop here and read all about the fabulous designer below! 

How did you get started on Etsy?


I have always had a passion for art and loved to paint and draw. After we bought our new house, I wanted to decorate my art studio and I was not able to find an inspiration board which was affordable and chic at the same time. With my husband’s help I created my own inspiration board and all my friends were impressed with it. One of them told me about Etsy and recommended me opening my own shop. Starting my own shop on Etsy was one of the best decisions I've ever made. What is your favorite "thing" to design?


I like to design items which not only look pretty but have a purpose. That is why I like to hand paint wood jewelry boxes, boards and incorporate my art in the stationery line. What are some of your other hobbies?


I enjoy reading and when I have some free time I usually sit outside in my garden with a good book and a cup of tea. Also, I love collecting art. I recently added three Marcel Dyf prints to my collection and I hope that one day I will be able to purchase a piece by Thomas Pradzynski. He had a unique way of painting the Parisian streets and captured the sense of nostalgia in all his paintings.Do you have a best seller in the shop?


The chalk and cork boards are the best sellers.





What is up next for the shop?


I will be adding more vintage items and expanding my stationery line.

We absolute adore the simple yet chic chalkboards. 

They aren't your average gift you received yet the perfect little thought! 

We LOVE this one ($10.50) & throw on the perfect little gift tag too. 

A set of 8 gift tags are only $5! 

Can we say serious bargins in this shop?! 

Support HANDmade designers & gift a not-so-ordinary gift!