Showing posts with label Alex and Ani. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alex and Ani. Show all posts

Saturday, April 9, 2016

Trending 4.9.16-- Gifts for Moms

Today's trending report will be dedicated to the perfect Mother's Day gift for all the moms out there! Mother's Day is quickly approaching (how is it April 9th already, BTW!?). Mother's Day is May 8th, and if you're ordering something online, it will be crucial to begin placing orders soon. If your mom is out of state like mine, you need to also factor in the shipping/delivery time to your gift.

I love gifting jewelry to women. There is never a guess as to something not fitting. Jewelry is ideal for women of all ages. Honestly, some of my favorite pieces of my own jewelry were given to me as gifts (my MFM monogram necklace from Anna, my KJP anchors bow bracelet from Sarah, my Kate Spade yellow and pearl earrings from Courtney, my Bourbon and Boweties bracelet from Mandy, my Kate Spade bangles from Beth and my Goddaughter, my J. Crew jewels from my mom... the list is never ending!). Each piece of jewelry reminds me of the person who gave it to me.




[1.0] A latitude and longitude (coordinates) bracelet or necklace.
My Lat and Lo experience was so positive. Not only is the bracelet itself stunning, but the packaging was darling! Lat and Lo's slogan is where are you anchored? So the packaging is covered in nautical anchors. Adorable! With a Lat & Lo. purchase, you also won't have to wrap your gift. Choose a special location that is meaningful to you and your mom. Perhaps a family vacation spot, the hospital in which you were born or your first home address.




[2.0] "Mom" in different languages bangle.
We bought my mom this bangle a few years ago for Mother's Day, and she wears it so often. It says "mom" in several different languages. It's a conversation starter, yet a simple enough bangle to be worn daily and stacked with a watch or other bangles. Also, Kate Spade makes these Mom idiom bangles that are inscribed with little mom-isms like "sit up straight, say thank you, do your homework, play nice, say please, go play outside". 





[3.0] Mom book to fill in.
This asks your mom to do a little work, but believe me, it is so worth it. My mom filled hers out and gave it back to me for Christmas, and I have been reading a few pages at a time. It makes me laugh and cry-- it is something I will always cherish. Then, I will always have her words with me for the rest of my life. It's a gift that "keeps on giving"! On the reverse, this book asks you what you LOVE about your mom. You fill it in, and then you give it to her. Both options will create memories and happiness!






[4.0] Artwork or prints to hang.
Depending on your mom's interests and hobbies, there is wall art out there for her. Last year, I bought my mom some nautical painting prints for her house in Florida. It was an affordable gift, but it was tailored to her likes! Mike bought me two fashion prints by Jessica Illustration on Etsy. He framed these, and we hung them in my "office" (the spare bedroom-- haha). They're so special! The artist is incredibly talented and lovely-- she helped Mike choose the best ones for me! Here is a favorite that would look beautiful in a mom's home. Here's one that Mike bought for me. She is incredibly talented! Check out her website for even more!








[5.0] Framed and enlarged photograph from an important event or canvas print.
Mike surprised me with three canvas prints of some of our wedding photos from CanvasFactory.com. They are fantastic! The company says it is based in Chicago; however, our canvases arrived from China, but they were great despite the long trip! LOL!

The photographs below are from our wedding! Check out Meagan's work at http://www.blossomlanephotography.com/. She is not only an amazing photographer, but she has become one of our friends. She is a beautiful person, inside and out!



One of the most tedious things to do, in my opinion, is to hang photographs. For some reason, it just really bugs me! Getting the photographs printed at Walgreens, finding a frame, cleaning the frame, framing the picture, hanging it well on the wall (not on a thumbtack like I usually do LOL)-- I don't know if it's just me being lazy, but it drives me nuts! Haha!  A true labor of love, printing and framing a photograph for mom will be something she displays for years to come.








[6.0] A funny kitchen towel from Primitives by Kathy.
Remember this towel I mentioned for my Christmas shopping guide? I can't tell you how much my mom loves it. She doesn't even actually use it practically; she just has it on display. LOL! I found another perfect one for the moms in our lives: here.  I can guarantee your mom will get a huge kick out of realizing she was right about everything, and you've become her. Haha! I know my mom loves that. Additionally, this same company makes these wooden chalkboard box signs. Yes, that is much harder to verbalize than show you, so check this out!







[7.0] Starting an Alex and Ani collection for her.
Each Alex and Ani bracelet I have represents something very special to me from someone very important in my life. I have a feather from my hubs, an angel to represent my Aunt Sue from my mom, an F from my cousin Beth to represent my new last name, a Godmother charm from my Goddaughter ;-) Bryn, and a Saint Mary's College bracelet to represent one of the most incredible places on earth. It's always fun to see which bracelets friends and colleagues have. They tell a story, and they stack beautifully. I like the idea of a life saver or anchor for your mom (or any mothers in your life) to show how they're constantly helping and guiding you and keeping you together.







[8.0] Lightweight scarves.
Another "no size" item that I love to buy for women is scarves. Kate Spade makes some beautiful lightweight scarves. They can be pricey, but they always go on sale.  Lilly Pulitzer also makes gorgeous scarves. Depending on your budget for the mom in your life, I will give some options. Kate Spade: here, here (25% off until April 10!), and here.  Lilly Pulitzer: here (they come in different cities!) and here.  A lower price point but equally as beautiful: here-- those pom poms!, here (so perfect for summer) and here. These can be easily layered to an LBD or LWD for the summer, and they will instantly spruce up Mom's outfit!




Side note: I asked mom to send some pics of her in scarves-- let me just say, she is KILLIN it! Model material, IMO! Her scarves are all Leoma Lovegrove, a favorite of the Floridians. 



What are you buying for the mothers in your life? Don't forget new mamas, too!
xxoo
Mary

Monday, December 21, 2015

Date Night Look & Early Christmas Gifts!

If you're anything like my husband and me, your date nights can range from burgers and fries at Beef Shack (yes, it's as amazing as it sounds!) to a fancy restaurant downtown and everything in between.  Some nights we are eating Aurelio's pizza and hitting up the Penrose Brewery in jeans and ND gear, yet other nights you'll find us being fancy at Fiora's in downtown Geneva. With such a dichotomy of date ideas, I sometimes struggle with what to wear on a Friday or Saturday evening with my hubs.  I wanted to share a few "sure-fire" ideas that are both affordable and re-wearable for work, too!



Friday night we tried a new restaurant, The Burger Local, in Geneva.  I love any excuse to wear sequins (duh), so I decided to upcycle a look from last year with my new navy Winnie crops and nude pumps.


Here is a fabulous alternative sequined top (my J. Crew Factory sequined shirt is from 2013 Christmas) from H&M for under $40. 


Underneath the sequins, tame your look a bit with this chambray button-down. You will wear this shirt over and over again-- under jumper dresses, tucked into patterned skirts and standing alone with statement jewelry. Trust me! For $34, you'll get extensive wear out of this shirt. 

I went with the Winnie pant in navy on the bottom, but if you like the H&M sequined top, I would pop the red or pair it with the black Winnies. At $36, I can't express how vital these crops are! They look awesome with pumps, flats and booties. They're slimming and work very well with a flowy top or with a fitted oxford tucked into them. 

My sister and I both own these Corso Como nude pumps. I highly recommend them for a polished finishing touch to your date night outfit. I don't like super high heels, as I am all for comfort, so these are the perfect height! 




After our meal and amazing drinks at The Burger Local, we headed home to have our tradition of opening gifts early. We have done this for the past two Christmases together because we travel to Ohio and Michigan over the holiday, and we like to exchange gifts at our home (besides, we have  A LOT of presents to bring home, so get ready, family!). Mike is an amazing gift giver and got me fabulous surprises! He knew I was obsessed with the BCBGeneration nude and black Darron pumps, so he went out and got the glitter version for me! (PS: they're now only $49!). I am soooo excited to wear these! 


He also surprised me with this cozy Lululemon Scuba hoody! SO essential for the walk to Pure Barre! (Thanks to Lauren K. for wearing this to PB and allowing me to copy her! haha!). Mike picked this up for me and hid it in his closet a few months ago, but here is a similar Scuba hoody! 

(Alex and Ani stackable bracelets: here). 

I surprised Mike with this Penrose Brewery tee shirt. (I think this was his favorite gift from me!). We absolutely love Penrose. If you live anywhere near Geneva, you MUST try it! First of all, the employees are super nice. They're extremely knowledgeable, too (take a tour of the brewery!). Penrose doesn't serve food, but you can BYOF and eat there! There are board games and picnic table style seating. It's easily our favorite local spot! 




We're just 4 short days away from Christmas, and I am getting so excited to travel home to see our families! Where are you spending the holidays and with whom? Safe travels, loyal readers! 
xxoo
Mary

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Holiday Gift-Giving Guide

Now that we have crossed the threshold into the month of November (cue the Christmas Pandora station!), it is time to start planning and thinking of a practical approach for gift giving. I have a very type-A personality (just ask my family! haha!), so I tend to have my gifts purchased and wrapped by December. Not only does it put my crazy mind at ease, but it is so wonderful to have wrapped gifts under the tree for the month of December.


Our tiny tree, last year, right before Thanksgiving ;-) and decking the drums!


Here are some gift suggestions and ideas for the most important people in your life.


Parents
Mom:
Let's face it, your mom deserves something luxurious. This monogrammed bathrobe from Mark and Graham will be a delight for your mom.



Additionally, as a stocking stuffer, this kitchen hand towel is probably my mom's favorite gift she has ever received from me. It reads, "OMG my mother was right about everything!" (She loves referencing THE towel!).


Another idea would be these darling idiom tote bags from The Initial Co. If your mom is anything like mine, she loves to use reusable totes for any shopping. Check out the cute sayings on these. Major bonus: two Saint Mary's College graduates (sisters!) created this company! I love to support my fellow Belles! Use code: BELLEONTREND for 15% your Initial Co. purchase until November 10! The website is FULL of fantastic gift ideas and SMC-related finds. LOVE!


Nora Fleming makes beautiful serving dishes that can be changed up every season with these little "doo-dads" (below) called minis. You buy a dish or serving platter, and you then can use the platters through all occasions and seasons by interchanging the minis. 
Each mini has a little tube-like structure that fits into a hole on the dishes. You could start a collection for your mom (or mother-in-law!)





Dad: It is fun for our dads to be able to recollect on their towns and where they grew up. These personalized map coasters from Uncommon Goods allow dads to reflect on their hometowns (or any location you choose) as they sip their drinks and think of what a good daughter or son they have ;-)



Additionally, any "fill-in" books for your father are really unique. This book would be something he would cherish forever!




Mothers and fathers-in-law:
It can be a little more difficult to shop for your in-laws because you likely do not know them as well as you know your parents and siblings. However, you always want to purchase memorable and thoughtful gifts for them! Here are some suggestions for the in-laws in your life.

Mark and Graham has some of most unique monogrammed and personalized items. These are ideal housewarming gifts, too, as they are made specifically for your recipient. This personalized wood tray is so fun for entertaining.
In addition, I am loving letter ornaments. To me, ornaments are a gift that "keeps on giving" as you can display them from year to year. It's so fun to take our ornaments out of storage each Christmas season and remember fondly who got us which ornaments. These whimsical letter ornaments are from Anthropologie's website. An idea would be to get the first letter of each child's name, grandchild and maybe even the first letter of the family's last name.



Siblings/ Brothers and Sisters-in-Law
I am lucky enough to have gained 4 brothers and 2 sisters through my sister's marriage and my own. For your "bonus" siblings, here are some fun ideas for Christmas gifts.

Sisters/Sisters-in-law: Alex and Ani bracelets (first, find out if she wears more gold or silver, and proceed from there). You can add to her collection or start one for her.  Each bracelet is so meaningful, and she will always think of you when she wears it! It is a stackable bracelet, so you can add to her collection with each holiday.

As another idea, this monogrammed tote bag makes trips to Jewel so much more glam! I love this for your sisters, particularly if they have acquired a new last name. Again, The Initial Co. just rocks for gifts! You'll want to buy yourself one, too!



Finally, this Kate Spade coffee table book is a new release.  You simply cannot go wrong with her darling book! It has cute etiquette tips and party-planning advice, and possesses the overall Kate Spade charm that we all know and love.



Brothers/ Brothers-in-law: Personalized beer mugs from The Initial Co.  The personalization of these mugs make them even more thoughtful.  Pair the mugs with a six-pack of beer from a local craft brewery. You'll be the favorite sister-in-law in no time! ;-)

Significant Other

Of course these will vary by person, but it is best to listen for hints throughout the months leading up to Christmas. If you live with your significant other, this is typically a simple task! Just keep your ears open. However, if you do not live together, or it's a newer relationship, sometimes the task of buying the perfect gift can be daunting. Tailor the gift to what your significant other really adores (aside from you, of course!). Perhaps his alma mater is very important to him. Scope the university book store's website if that is the case. Maybe she has recently gotten serious about exercising. If that is the case, what is better than fashionable workout gear?

Male:
A nice 1/4 zip pullover from your man's college is a great place to start.


I love the idea of planning a future event, too.  A craft beer fest or whiskey tasting in your town would be an exciting future gift to give (you could print out the ticket to the event or concert and wrap that). Then, Christmas doesn't have to end on the 25th!


There's nothing quite like seeing your man in a crisp new collared shirt, am I right, ladies? Look no further than this Vineyard Vines Oxford for a tailored look for your hottie.


Female:
This Lilly Pulitzer scarf would be perfect for anyone who calls Chicagoland her home! (There are designs of all things Chicago on the scarf!)
Tory Burch just came out with a line of workout clothing. How fabulous would your girlfriend/fiance/wife look in these spandex leggings?



It is fun to receive gifts that you wouldn't want to buy yourself.  I often tell Mike if he is stuck on a gift, I would love more Pure Barre classes!


Nieces/nephews/Goddaughters/Godsons:
Again, this will vary significantly by age, but I can provide some ballpark ideas (based on the ages of my adorable nieces and nephews and Goddaughter).

Girls:
What little girls don't love glitter? Sparkly Toms are a great option for mini gals. Your niece or Goddaughter will think of her very cool aunt or Godmother each times she glitters around in these Toms!


Boys:
Any Star Wars toys like this Star Wars Sorry board game. The new Star Wars movie comes out on December 18, so it is just in time to get the boys in your life excited! (And also the adult boys in your life, too!).



Tiny tots:
The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak, The Day the Crayons Quit by Oliver Jeffers or Press Here by Herve Tullet. These three books have been huge hits with the tiniest people in our life!
The Book with No Pictures creates so many laughs with your littlest family members. Check out B.J. Novak reading the book to kids! It's hilarious.



Gal Pals:

I have purchased this gift for two of my besties in the past, and they absolutely loved it. These latitude and longitude coordinate necklaces are so thoughtful and special. I met my bestie, Caitlin, at Notre Dame, so I used the coordinates of the University of ND on her necklace. I grew up with my bestie, Megan, so I used Boardman, Ohio as the coordinates for her necklace. This Etsy seller was prompt and wonderful to work with; I highly recommend this gift as a personalized piece for your girls!

Another fun gift for your girlfriends would be this Love state tee by the Initial Co. My college and high school girlfriends reside all over the country, and it would be so fun to celebrate their current or home state with this tee shirt! Always a conversation starter-- don't forget your roots this Christmas! 







Don't let the holidays be a time of stress for you! All you should be worrying about this holiday season is spending time with the people who are most important to you and thanking God for having those people in your life.  Embrace the idea of shopping early, leisurely and maybe even online! Alleviate any unnecessary hassles.  Use these ideas to get started!




Don't forget: shop The Initial Co. from now until November 10 with the code BELLEONTREND to receive 15% off your next purchase!  So happy to support my fellow Smicks!
xxoo
Mary