phoenix is haute

Featured// 1100 Magazine Paradise Valley

2012-02-21T08:00:00.002-07:00

This week the Phoenix Style Collective and I were featured by one of the lovely contributing editors of the 1100 magazine, miss Sarah Brue in the Paradise Valley edition of the magazine. I couldn't be more thrilled! What a beautiful little article it is! The photo our friend, Brenda captured of us at our Launch event last month could not be more spot on, caught us all in signature form! Thanks Sarah for the feature! You can read it here.

Love day seeing LOVE

2012-02-16T08:00:00.003-07:00

Twice a year I head to Vegas with the rest of the clotheshorses and work the apparel trade show. I have been doing it for around 6 years and it is inevitably, always Valentine's Day week. I haven't had a real life VDay in years! Cue the "awws", no, no, I have 364 other days I year I get showered with love! It's just funny I am always away for that special day! This year, while away, my bff Carly and I decided to spend the romantic evening in a totally fitting way and go to see the spectacular Cirque show that is LOVE! I have seen it 4 times now. Whoops. Better every time. Here's a peek...

Fashion Rocks at the MIM

2012-02-13T08:00:00.004-07:00

Phoenix Fashion Week is presenting their annual Fashion Rocks fashion show at the Musical Instrument Museum again next week. I missed last years' event and have been regretting it ever since! I have a couple other engagements that evening (Spring has sprung people!), but I am hoping to make it over there! Will you ?

Haute Happenings // My favorite layer

2012-02-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

I seriously cannot even take how much wear I have gotten out of this denim vest. It is really such a versatile piece, especially in AZ. I wear it over everything, and it adds just the right amount of dare I say, edge? My first Levi's purchase in a long time, and I am so glad I went for it! This Bailey 44 is totally flattering and great for layering , but my friend Josh told me I would look like a Kardashian if I bought it. That clearly was not a way to convince me away from it!! Went for it anyway...at least one of the hot Kardashians right? ;) bahaha

Dress- Bailey 44// Vest- Levis// Tights- We Love Colors// Shoes BDG// Watch- Nixon// Necklace- Local designer
Don't you just love my new little Jackalope friend? Loving the woodland creatures lately I can't help it. My favorite guy gave it to me for Valentine's Day, and it's 1 of 3 that were made! Neat huh? I'm obsessed with it! Do you have any must have's in your wardrobe? What haven't you been able to hang up lately?

Saturday Cupcake date

2012-02-11T08:00:00.003-07:00

Sometimes you just need a cupcake am I right? I mean, wait, that's not everyday? haha My friend Katherine and I met for a sweet treat at Sprinkles in Scottsdale on Super Bowl Sunday and surely were not disappointed! Perfect way to spend the afternoon! :) Naturally, outfit shots were also penciled in!

Blouse- Deletta//Vest- WR for Target// Skirt-Last Chance// Boots- Simply Vera for Kohls// Sunnies- Anthro
are you on Instagram? It's like my 3rd arm...

My beautiful wingman Katherine in her adorable Hazel Green tunnel scarf and glasses! Do you have dates with your friends on a regular basis? Just to treat yourself and catch up? Girl time is so awesome! Why can't we play with our friends every day? Okay clearly its 2 am and I sound like a big dork!! Goodnight!

A Peek Into My Week February 2012

2012-02-05T00:22:00.001-07:00

a beautiful building in Tempe overlooking the lake

hey, if I have one vice and this is it, I don't feel as guilty... ; )

all time best friend award

who goes here on a Saturday?? rookie mistake...

This year is shaping up to be a wild one! I feel like I am going non stop! Exciting things on the book like travel, planning the PSC blogger conference, roadtrips, and if I'm lucky...sleep too!! What have you been up to?

Haute Happenings 2-2-2012

2012-02-02T08:00:00.005-07:00

dress- vintage// scarf-UO//tights- we love colors// shoes BDG//

I don't know if I will ever get over my obsession for kitsch. I mean you guys. This scarf!!? Urban Outfitters has lured me in yet again with something silly but necessary. It kind of looks like my little furry friend doesn't it?? Do you ever invest in silly "conversation pieces" as my friend Tricia would say or do you stick to logical basics??

PSC launch behind the seams...

2012-01-31T08:00:00.005-07:00

before our guests trickled in...

my new favorite food truck!

the GROWop garden looking incredible.

making new friends.

mr. and mrs. tea talk.

sunflowers & twinkle lights.

a peak into the GROWop vintage boutique.

me and chels and hey that's my little kingsley too.

my mom and my sis came out!

for more photos check out Brenda Eden's facebook page our photo booth extraordinaire of the evening!

Dreaming.

2012-01-29T08:00:00.001-07:00

FRIDAY NIGHT WAS INCREDIBLE. Thank you for all who came out!! The PSC launch (by far) blew my mind and exceeded our expectations!!

Launch Party Fancy Pants

2012-01-28T08:00:00.002-07:00

For our launch party I decided I needed to wear fancy pants and a color that makes me feel confident. Obviously a bright lip was also involved. Mister Tea Talk himself, Scott, was kind enough to take these outfit shots, and although he took about 46 gorgeous ones, I am always a sucker for the outtakes!!

Blazer- thrifted// tee- Vintage// Fancy Pants- Anthro// Lips-KVD for Sephora

The Jobot Breakfast Club

2012-01-27T08:00:00.007-07:00

Each week my Breakfast Club pals and I meet up at a sometimes new, sometimes old favorite coffee shop in the Valley to plot and plan for the Phoenix Style Collective. I am constantly blown away by what comes to life when 5 caffeinated brains come together! This week was days away from the PSC Launch and the excitement was building!

Dried out sunflowers behind the Grow house...
Uplifting sidewalk grafitti!

One of the highlights of the evening was meeting the amazingly awesome duo Sarah & Josh from Arrow & Apple! You may recognize them from one of the most amazing weddings of all the land?? How lucky are we to have them in our state now!? We hit it off right away and I am so excited to see more of these two! Such cool and talented people! We kept saying "we're not worthy...we're not worthy" This photo above of the magic happening was stolen from Sarah's blog.

I love this city.

Unplugged at The Herb Box

2012-01-25T08:00:00.002-07:00

I have heard so much about the adorable little lunch destination The Herb Box, for so long! I work right around the corner so really there is no reason for me to have waited so long!

Last week I walked over for a salad and picked something out from their walk in market and I was not dissappointed! It has been beautiful out so I took my salad and coffee outside and sat on a bench. I don't think I do that enough. Put the phone down and enjoy the day, self!

They had a little artisans market going on, which I didn't get to peruse but maybe next weekend I will go and get sucked in!

As I said I unplugged for my lunch so I am just as shocked as you are that I didn't manage to capture any footage of my food or beverage! bahaha Blogger fail!! Have you had a lunch date with yourself or unplugged lately? It's really such a nice escape!!

AMC Esplanade at the Biltmore

2012-01-22T08:00:00.002-07:00

I have to say I really and truly love the movies. There was something really awesome living so close to Hollywood where all the magic was happening, and you could run into an A lister actor at your local Starbucks any time when I was in Los Angeles. I frequented the Arclight theaters on Sunset and for while was wishing and hoping that my beloved city of Phoenix would open something similiar. YOU GUYS! Someone was listening! I first read about the AMC Espanade on Katherine's blog, and really I am amazed with how long it took me to go try it out myself!

You get to pick your seats first of all, so there is no having one person save seats with coats and purses while their date is finding a parking space, and the seats are full on recliners! Whoa! Seriously a dream movie experience!

My mom and I went to see The Decendents (whoa, had no idea what I was getting myself into. It was fantastic and emotional! Have you seen it?) and had we known about the food situation we wouldn't have had lunch prior to our matinee showing! But we did have a delightful cocktail

I can't remember what tropical sensation this guy was but it was fantastic!

I highly recommend making a date night out of it! It was $8 bucks to go during the day and was so much fun! Totally reinventing the getting dolled up to go see a picture show!

Phoenix Style Collective Launch Party January 27th

2012-01-19T08:00:00.002-07:00

Hope you can make it to our event next Friday night! We are SO excited to see the evening unfold with all of you style loving Phoenicians!

XO C

brunch date at LGO

2012-01-18T08:00:00.001-07:00

This afternoon my mom, sister, and I met up in Arcadia for a little treat at La Grande Orange Grocery. (Well who doesn't)but, I LOVE that place!! I have been a couple times but something has gotten in the way of actually eating so I get lured in by the beautiful notebooks, screen printed tees, and LGO merch!

I ordered the 'French Pancakes' aka Crepe with Honey and Strawberries and I finally got to try the Green Chili Mac and Cheese that I've been salivating about trying since the Summer!

I'm sure I am so, totally, out of the loop here but have you been to LGO? What's your favorite thing to order?

Phoenix Street Eats Food Truck Festival

2012-01-16T08:00:00.002-07:00

Probably stemming from the time I spent living in Los Angeles when the fancy food truck boom happened a few years back, but I really, really love food trucks! Until a few days ago I had never been, (but always wanted to!) go to a food truck festival! This particular, beautifully sunny Saturday my grandma, mister, and I decided to give it a go after being gifted some tickets!

Voted (by us) overall most clever name!

Voted best (by us!) Pulled Pork sliders with green chili and Garlic Aioli sauce

You have probably read by now that the only not awesome thing was the waiting. and waiting and waiting. It was like I went to Disneyland and there were no fastpasses. Or Pirates. It seemed like they perhaps had oversold the sweet deal of $10 tickets because even getting in a parking space took so long by the time you did you probably missed the boat (heh heh) on the Lobster truck!
couldn't have gone home without Fry Bread!!

made sure to wear my "extra room so you can't see what I just had for a snack" blouse ;) Looking past the wait times (everything good takes time!), it was really fun to try the different trucks and walk around with the rest of the state on a nice day! Next time we will probably support them by going to the Phoenix Market downtown on a Wednesday for lunch!

Simon Doonan Book signing this Saturday

2012-01-13T08:00:00.001-07:00

photo via the new times
Barney's New York at Scottsdale Fashion Square will be hosting Simon Doonan (Creative Ambassador at Large for Barney's NY, you may have seen him on America's Next Top Model making people cry, or on the arm of his husband- this charming designer) for a signing of his newly released book "Gay Men Don't Get Fat". I have had this book on my radar every since the bright pink cover caught my eye, and keep hearing great things about it!

Hope to see you there (tomorrow- this Saturday) January 14th 2-4pm

Nylon magazine feature's Phoenix Music

2012-01-10T08:00:00.002-07:00

Does everyone subscribe to Nylon? I know you do...don't worry... It's one of my favorite magazines because the pages are non-stop inspiration for not only great, ecclectic, fashion but also lots of features on music, the arts, and other up and coming's.

This specific article was especially great because it featured (a slice) of what Phoenix's music scene has to offer! Some of the usual suspects were included like Jimmy Eat World and Sam Means of the Format, and then some I have never heard of like the Whisperlights and The Gospel Claws- and with names like that I'll need to check them out! The New Times actually did a spin off of the list and "drinkifyed" them, so that of course you know what to sip on while listening along... clever! Check it out!

introducing...the Phoenix Style Collective

2012-01-08T08:00:00.005-07:00

Hello!! I am SO proud and excited that I finally get to introduce to you my newest project The Phoenix Style Collective. Our goal is to be the link between the tastemakers in the Phoenix style and fashion business- there are so many pockets of us but no one knows eachother! Let's change that and build our network and steet cred!

We will be a fully anchored network by utilizing our blog, hosting events with industry experts, and essentially being your go-to resource for legitimate talent in our own fashion business! Let's connect shall we?

How do you like the blog thus far?! See you on the 27th!

My amazing team and I have been working for months plotting and brainstorming the roll out of this girl! Stay tuned for our Launch Party and GROWop Benefit later this month on Friday January 27th! Thanks for your support! Can't wait to see you there!

I Have a Cool Job: Vol 5. featuring Kelly Wilcox, Visual Merchandiser

2012-01-05T08:00:00.002-07:00

Welcome to the next round of I have a cool job! This week, I have interviewed my friend Kelly who I met at Anthropologie a little over a year ago! She is a college senior and a visual merchandiser for golf company in the Phoenician resort! She is such a cool girl who has her hands in a lot of a cookie jars and pulls it off so well! She was even the girl who deleted her Facebook account to manage her commitments better! Um, I admire that! Enjoy!

1.) Tell us about you and your cool job.

Why Hello! My name is Kelly and I am currently a senior (well, on track for the victory lap/5-year program) at Arizona State, getting my degree in Fiber Arts (textile design). In addition to going to school full-time, I also have a full-time and part time job! I am the merchandise manager for the golf club/shop at the Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, AZ and I am also a part-time Senior customer associate at Anthropologie! (where I had the pleasure of meeting the oh so lovely, Miss Courtney McEntire :)).

2.) How did you happen upon your cool job and long have you been doing it?
Strange story actually, I was working at Anthro but wanted to gain retail experience in a different atmosphere. I worked at a golf course and played golf competitively in high school, and my dad is a PGA Master Professional so needless to say I've been around golf a lot!! My dad works for a company called Troon Golf, which is an amazing golf management company that manages courses around the world, many in the valley, and their headquarters are right in Scottsdale!--(oddly enough... right across the street from my other job.. small world!)
I started working at the Phoenician part time through a Troon Golf recommendation from my dad (sounds lame, I know) but I guess they took a liking to me, they offered me a full-time position after just a few months of being there, which was sweet because I took paid vay-cay days during finals ;). But what might be even cooler is that I think, at 21, I'm the youngest merchandise manager within Troon Golf (at least locally)! I have been there for well over a year now, but unfortunately I am stepping down and going part time again due to an extremely hectic school schedule next semester.

3.) What did you want to be when you "grew up" when you were a child?
This is such a good question. wow. I think I literally wanted to be everything, and to be honest, i still kind of do want to do everything! I remember at my 8th grade graduation my principal was announcing my name as I got my mini-diploma, and she was talking about how I had dreams of being a "psycho pharmacist" which is probably way more interesting than what i wanted to be:... a psychopharmacologist. :)

4.) What is the best piece of industry- specific advice you have been given in your field?
That's kind of tough, because from a merchandising standpoint, I've never had any formal training or education. I think the basic elements and principles of design have helped me a lot, light colors on top and darker on bottom... simple things like that!
I think customer-service based advice has been the best/most helpful to me. Such words of wisdom from my bosses would include "the only no we know is 'no problem'" and "under promise and over deliver!"

5.) Where do you see yourself and your job evolving into in the next 5 years?
To be honest, I've been trying really hard to bust into the textile design industry, Ideally I would love to be a bedding or home linens designer. But as far as where I'll actually be, who knows! I'm open to ideas, and I think I'll be happy as long as I'm doing something creative with people I love!

6.) Why is Phoenix such a great place for you to have your cool job?
Phoenix is a hot spot for all different types of people, it's awesome how many nice and interesting folks I've me just by being at work! Part of this has to do with working at a golf course... in a resort... in a town that is known to be a golf-destination. But because Phoenix is so "golf-intensive" as I call it, I get to see so many other merchandising techniques and displays that are unique to golf shops and golf products, all around the valley!

7.) What is one clothing item and one tool you can't live/work without?
I have so many! I'd have to say for both my jobs, high-waisted skirts are a must! Also this time of year I've gotta have my fun-patterned tights.

8.) What is the best part of your day and most challenging part of your day?
Well, the best part of my day, as cliche as it sounds, is really connecting with my customers on a personal level and fulfilling their shopping needs! I also love doing displays and windows. Sometimes the most challenging part of my day is being the ONLY girl on my team (someone's gotta keep those boys in line, right?!)

9.) We know your job isn't all glamour, all the time- what is one thing you wish people knew about your cool job?
Hmm.. The one thing I would want people to know, probably that it really isn't all fun and games and playing with clothes, I have to do a lot of math, accounting-type stuff, and merchandise receiving (yuck)! I also do a LOT of cleaning!

10.) What is one piece of advice you can give for someone who would like to one day have a job as cool as yours and get involved in your industry?
Be positive, be creative, be fun, and most importantly, work hard and ask questions... I feel like these simple ideas and "keys to success" are things people in my generation tend to miss out on and take for granted!

So true Kelly! Lots of industry insight! Thanks so much!

2012 Goals! Let's do this!

2012-01-04T00:18:00.004-07:00

Happy New Year everyone! I can feel it already, excitement brewing, it's gonna be a great big year! 2011 was wonderful and challenging for me, re-learning this great, big, city after moving back from Los Angeles! I had a lot of life changes but honestly could not be much happier than where I'm at and am still wholeheartedly stoked we moved to AZ. (I honestly thought I may or may not get the So Cal itch after a year or so but I'm proud to say I haven't!) I am also proud of myself for being such a "YES Woman" and meeting everyone and doing everything I possibly can. I DO need to remind myself that no one is going to judge me for taking some "me" team every now and again!

The past few years I have stopped making "resolutions" per se, because like many, me resolving to not do things (bite my nails, eat carbs, buy shoes...whatever...) usually doesn't last longer than January and the "I'm the king of the world!! I can take on anything" mojo wears off and it's back to the grind.

Instead, me the eternal list maker has made a 24 things to accomplish before I turn 25 list. Which is actually a couple months away but I let myself have the entire new year for fairness? Anyway, I don't do well with the word "no" and crossing things off a to do list is SO FUN for me so a goal list seems more fitting! Here WE GO!

1. Start having a birthday trip (big or small) every year
2. Get Kingsley a friend
3. Learn everything I can about Photography. Lets face it. Not one of my strengths but I'm excited about it!
4. Cook 2 meals every week and prove it! Domestic Attempts series begins this month!
5.Go to Palm Springs this weekend with my Cali BFF
6. Meet Paul McCartney (oh wait, I am. Next month. Can't even talk about it I'm still too shaken! Remember! It's important to set attainable goals people!!)
7. Blog four days a week
8. Go skydiving with my siblings
9. Go on another sibling road trip
10.Move downtown when our lease ends
11. Intern for a magazine (a life goal ;)
12. Go to the AZ hot air balloon fest, Willo home tour, and Modern Phoenix tour
13. Learn a new language
14. Learn about wine
15. Learn how to use a French Press (ahem Miss Tea Talk )
16. Make one thing a month
17. Continue to make our home cozy and warm
18. Take dance classes regularly
19. Go to one out of state blogger event
20. Go square dancing ;)
21. Go to a jazz club and just be
22. Go visit the lava caves
23. Stay in an airstream in Bisbee
24. Launch the P.S.C. and execute the plan with my amazing team!
25. Strive to be a better me, everyday, to every person in my life.

25 is a big, quarter life crisis year for me that's like WHOA! What happened!? Why are things moving so fast?! So, as you can see I have a lot to accomplish and learn to grow as the gal I hoped to be by this age! What do they say about planning your own destiny again...? ;) Now who wants to teach me Someone Like You on Piano??

HAPPY 2012. Let's make it an incredible one in the 6th largest city of the U.S.!

The Burger Diaries// Indulge

2012-01-02T23:22:00.004-07:00

I seriously have a monthly internal battle with myself over what a good idea it would be for me to be a vegetarian. Sorry Eat Right For Your Blood Type, at the end of the day, I love a perfect cheeseburger. I always end up ordering them and I just wouldn't be able to say no to them! Until the day comes when I bid farewell to red meat (if ever...) I will just have to settle for making it a habit on a less regular basis, and now I'm going to start documenting my search for Arizona's best burgers! Here is the first entry in my Burger Diaries. I will be rating the overall delightfulness of the restaurant, burger, and service! I'm allowed to be a tough critic because I worked in a restaurant for years when I was younger! Everyone should! Here we go!

Indulge burgers and more in Scottsdale! I first heard about this haunt from Katherine, and after scooping up an amazing Groupon for it, I had to check it out!

I had their Turkey Burger as it came. This included lettuce, green onions, and Cranberries! Wowza! That was a first!

fried pickles on the left (random craving...I know!) and sweet potato fries on the right...mmm

This guy and his face that may or may not be mocking me is a simple meat & cheese lover (no extras? whaaaat? I'm an everything on it type of girl, I know...)

THE RANKS:

Size : Smaller size restaurant
Price: $40 for two of us
Wait time: 15 minutes on a Thursday night
Service: Just ok
Options: Skys the limit! fill in the blank menu style!
Burger: My Turkey burger was good not great, I think the cranberries threw me off! My bad for not customizing, but I think I need to go back and build another!
Favorite part: Sweet potato fries dipped in Garlic Aioli sauce!!

Although it was a little bit of a trek for me far into Scottsdale (Off of Scottsdale & Shea), I would definitely go back to build a custom to my tastes- burger!

FIDM AZ Chapter Holiday Soiree

2011-12-26T08:00:00.003-07:00

Mid December we had our long awaited Holiday Soiree for my FIDM AZ Chapter Alumni group. It's the biggest and best of our seasonal events, and this year I am so proud of how it turned out!
We plotted and planned for months, and the entire board of directors contributed so much time and handywork! I am still so proud and excited about it! Our event was held at Phoenix Art Museum, and lucky for us we got a tour of the incredible Giorgio di Sant' Angelo exhibit that was currently exhibited! Here are some peaks into the evening!

brilliantly colored scarves at tge Giorgia di Sant Angelo exhibit

Excited with the success of the event! Thanks for all who helped us pull this evening off and to our amazing sponsors who contributed gift items to raffle off for our charity of choice UMOM.

Down East Basics Home

2011-12-23T08:00:00.007-07:00

Have you guys ever shopped on Down East Basics before? They have really cute and inexpensive pieces, I love their knits and skirt selection!! I have ordered some harem pants and really cute bangle bracelets in the past and at prices like less than $20 pants how can you go wrong!?

Well they contacted me to try out some items from their home line they have just branched into! They have really great Christmas decor (did you see the adorable wreath my friend Kara made out of one of their garlands?) Or this post Katherine did on D.E.B. holiday giveaway?

These are a few of my favorite things I can't wait to choose from! They do a great job at choosing affordable, instant classics for both their home and apparel and it's a great excuse to try out a trendy piece or color you have been eyeing but haven't made the plunge to purchasing! Whats your favorite thing from their home line? Would you try it out? If you like what you see be sure to like them on facebook!

Glendale Glitters with Grandma

2011-12-21T08:00:00.002-07:00

Somehow, after dancing the Nutcracker here for over 10 years of my life, it's just not Christmas without paying a visit to Glendale Glitters in downtown Glendale! When I was smaller, it seemed like a giant, theme park sized wonderland of glittering Christmas lights, but somehow as I have grown it has shrunken. It's still really magical and this year my family and I went to eat Mexican food and take in all of the glitter.

Snuggled up in my favorite Alpaca sweater my sister brought me back from the Amazon rainforest! I do realize that sounds made up but it's not! Love that thing!

Did you know it's almost Arizona's 100 birthday? Whoa!

Me, grandma, and my twin

wax lips and mustaches obviously... ;)

Beautiful mom and Grandma

What are your Holiday traditions you do every year?

ASU Sculpture Department Art Show

2011-12-20T08:00:00.001-07:00

Bragg's Pie factory in downtown Phoenix always hosts the best art shows and events! Last year I went to Cookies, Coffee, and Crafts, and ASU hosts many of their art department's final shows there! This month S and I went to see the sculpture department's final show of the semester! It was great! Lots of amazing pieces from ASU's brilliant art students! Here are a few of my favorites...okay I may be partial to the last one... ;)

Sibling date in downtown Phoenix

2011-12-19T08:00:00.004-07:00

Last week my siblings and I met up downtown for a little shopping and drinking date in downtown! It's rare we are all in the same city with gasp! a free morning to spare so it was such a nice time to share with them!

sisters in sunnies...
We went to Urban Outfitters (great selection at the downtown location) and I took these first timers to one of my favorite caffeine houses- Lola Coffee off of Roosevelt! Mmm! I always feel a little too rambunctious for Lola. You need to be super cool and whisper and I'm a bit too giggly! ;) haha Good inside-voice practice I guess!

beanie- anthro, blazer- anthro, tank- target, flare jeans- jbrand, amazing LAMB bag? I was told my dog traded in dog treats to buy it for me for Christmas! (!!!)

here I am giggling while teaching the sibs about the mandatory "blogger poses" ..."who me? nbd..I'm just flawlessly candid!" bahaha NOT! I love the outtakes!

I swear my brother was there too! He just played photog. for the day! :) One of my New Year's Resolutions will be to have more sibling dates! Especially roadtrips because our TDCC /San Diego trip was easily one of the best times of my life! What about you out there? Do you hang with your siblings often? What are you favorite things to do together?

Arizona Costume Institute luncheon with special guest Lisa Vreeland

2011-12-15T08:00:00.003-07:00

I am so excited to finally be a member of the Phoenix Art Museum, and now a part of Arizona Costume Institute as well! What a way to kick of my membership, with attending their annual Holiday luncheon. This year's event featured an amazing lecture and book signing by Lisa Vreeland of Diana Vreeland/ The Eye Has To Travel.

I am constantly amazed at the events Phoenix Art puts together. I have been attending them for the past year, and this soiree was no certainly exception! I was in awe taking in her entire presentation, which was put together with equal parts facts and fun about Diana's life (Lisa's husband's grandmother) in the public eye and as a real person! Incredible insight for the history buffs out there or anyone interested in fashion or journalism as a bigger picture!

a few incredible pieces from the Phx Art vault, hand selected for display at the luncheon by ACI benefactors

Love the amazing embroidered Louis Vuitton piece on the left

coat: anthropologie/ dress:stop staring/ pumps: jessica simpson

My Nouveau friends miss Taylor, Casey, and Celine

aaand the cherry on top of the event was this decadent peppermint mousse! What a perfect afternoon!

Portland for the Weekend part 3 iPhone edition

2011-12-13T08:00:00.001-07:00

inside of a snowglobe

delightful coffee stop

breakfast at Doug Fir

too hilarious the similarities

brother and sister

love in an elevator

perks of family in the biz'

leaves that actually change color

baby mushrooms

the perfect lunch

the sun room ...swoon...

perfect evening

christmas card worthy

Portland for the Weekend part 2

2011-12-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day two in Oregon consisted of a spectacular moment in history slash the day I got to choose and cut down a Christmas tree! Now, this may not seem as incredible to those who may have grown up or live outside of the Valley of The Sun, but for the Phoenicians- this is record worthy!

A lot of us had to agree on ONE. Decisions, decisions!

Ice webs!

Such a beautiful day.

Portland for the Weekend part 1

2011-12-10T08:00:00.002-07:00

A couple weeks into December my guy and I jetted off to visit his family in Portland, Oregon! To say it was amazing is such an understatement! We ate beautiful food, drank perfect coffee, wine, and Mcminnville tap water (it was really astonishing tap water!), and were definitely merry. I have only been a few times, but every time we go I feel totally transported into another world! Growing up in Phoenix those words like "weather" and "seasons" seem so foreign. In Oregon, there are huge trees and it felt like we were in a snowglobe or a lifetime movie! So perfectly magical!

On or first morning we walked around the city a little bit

this is my "I didn't pack warm enough" face

How cool does this Portland Outdoor Store look? Too bad it wasn't open! It looked to good to pass up!

Necessary Stumptown stop! Had the best Cappuccino I have had I think ever and picked up some beans for a certain Mr. and Mrs. Tea Talk. ;)

Just a teeny view of his familys backyard in McMinnville, about 30 minutes outside of the city.

Breathtaking right? They have a garden and their own Chickens that lay there own eggs, and wild Deer and Turkeys that frolic! You wouldn't even believe it! Haha nature I tell ya! Stay tuned!

A Meeting at Flo's Chinese Restaurant in Scottsdale

2011-12-08T08:00:00.001-07:00

Before our long awaited Holiday event snuck up on us, my Fidm Advisory board and I got together for one last meeting confirming all of our details! Jodi made us a reservation at Flo's in North Scottsdale, which ended up being perfect! I had never heard of it prior as I'm not in NoSco (just made that up...does it work?;), all too often, but it was really great!

Sweet Lindsey brought us back treasures from here trip.

The whole gang. I can't believe until that day I had never tried Sizzling Rice Soup! Which as you can imagine, tastes and sounds just as the name implies! :) Thanks Jodi for turning me on to my new favorite! Have you tried any new restaurants lately? Will you go back?

Musical Instrument Museum date

2011-12-06T08:00:00.002-07:00

I recently went on a museum date to the MIM, off of Tatum and the 101! I had be meaning to visit for awhile now and hadn't made the trek out yet! It's a gorgeous and enormous museum, (just opened in April 2010), and they have over 10,000 instruments and objects from across the Globe! Really interesting and amazing if you are a music history lover!

What's interesting is that they aren't all 100 percent antique pieces like most museums, there are many perfect replicas. This is because unlike most museums you can touch and play the works of art! Amazing right? Beautiful and pristine, you really just have to go check it out ! We ended up going on a Saturday and it was buzzing with museum goers! Enjoy this picture heavy post!

What's your favorite AZ museum?

A December date

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

me and miss tea talk herself!

very hard time choosing just one wreath

A glorious Beatles selection

The beginning of this Holiday month Chelsea and I met up for a little date to get us in the holiday mood! We bought a wreath, perused a local record store for a little Christmas vinyl, and sampled some delightful treats at Trader Joes! What a beautiful day! Here is a peak into the fun we had...

getting into the Christmas spirit

treats of my favorite grocer

Interweb Love

2011-12-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

Well Happy December lovely readers! I know many bloggers already show off what they are loving online but I thought I would give you a peak into what I have been lurking the web for lately!

STYLE: You guys. How AWESOME is this outfit Krystal from This Time Tomorrow styled this week? It has all of my favorite elements in it, FANCY PANTS, a balance of cutesy and sophisticated, ladylike and masculine, and that red lip! FANASTIC!!

DECOR: I think I need to make some time to make this beautiful DIY that Katie of Katie's Pencil Box posted over on her fantastic blog! She always has such great photos! "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" has always been one Christmas song that never fails to cut me to the core! Ahh my heart (LOVE Meet Me in St. Louis!!)! So, I was especially smitten with the lyrics she chose for this project! AND! She did all the dirty work for us so head on over and check out her step by step guide!

LAUGH:
If you haven't seen this Jimmy Kimmel video yet, go over there and watch it and then read this shirt again. Good fo' you, you probably gonna go and get yourself a tummy ache now. The last part of the video is the best!! I think this shirt is SO AWESOME!

READ:
Who doesn't just love the queen bee, Betty White? I just don't make enough time for reading and I just got this book in the mail and am really excited to make time to! She reminds me of my grandma and I think it will be interesting and witty!

Sooo...anything you have had in your Amazon cart for awhile? December is the season of giving, keep repeating that... ;) Seen anything out and about that you would like to test drive yourself?

OMG Shoes

2011-12-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

Tom
$69 - toms.com

Hunter tall boots
$110 - coggles.com

Wingtip oxford
$110 - topshop.com

Luichiny orange heels
$90 - heels.com

American Eagle Outfitters lace up bootie
$60 - ae.com

So. Apparently the season of giving is here. Whoa Whoa Whoa. People are demanding wish lists but somehow I can't get my brain out of shoe land. I love that place. Clearly I am thinking mostly function over fashion here but I'm really loving these Wool Toms Cordones, Desert Boots, and who doesn't want to add a Wellie to their cart whilst dreaming of seasons/ leaves changing/ puddles to stomp in?! What shoes do you have your eyes on? Are you ahead of me in the gift giving department? Happy December!!

Breaking Down the Breaking Dawn

2011-11-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Happy about:
-Jacob's shirt off in the first sixty seconds
-The gorgeous wedding scene. I may or may not have welled up. AND THAT DRESS!
-Stephanie Meyer as a guest at the said wedding

Uncertain about:
-What was up with Carlisle's hair/ wig ?
-Where did the super sweet soundtrack go? ;(
- The Cullen mcmansion turned into the Cullen Hotel?! Like, five stories high? hmm...

-Loved the montages/flashbacks (but that dangerously cheesy Renesme music? Too much!)

I feel like a part of me is like "Imma let chu finish, but New Moon/Eclipse were some of the best chick flicks of all time" but mostly I just loved seeing that honeymoon scene finally lived out (aka the only scene where me and the twelve year olds were silent) bahaha I want to see it again!

There! You caught me. I loved it! I can't wait another whole year... for November 16 2012. Woof.

Haute Happenings 11-22-2011

2011-11-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

I just got the most amazingly perfect denim vest at the Levis store in Tempe this past week! I have been eyeing her for a couple months now but somehow couldn't justify $80 bucks on a denim beauty I knew I could probably attempt to DIY myself! As luck should have it it got marked down, aaaandd had an additional sale off of sale. Needless to say I am a happy, denim clad, camper!

Although I sure don't look like it! HA! Sorry for the scowl the sun was giving me the stink eye!!

having a Ricky Bobby "I don't know what to do with my hands" moment....

A little better in the shade... ;)

Tee: necessitees
Cowl scarf: F21
Vest: Levis
Jeans: BDG
Desert boots: Aldo

What is your new favorite friend living in your closet?!

Daytrip to Tucson

2011-11-19T22:20:00.000-07:00

Friday I mysteriously had the day off so I cleared the scheduled to-do's and hopped in the car and headed out to visit my sister in one of my new favorite Arizona cities! I haven't spent as much time as I would like to in Tucson but every time I go back I fall more in love with it! I love how no one has landscaping done on their homes to save water, and the incredible, vintage, neon signage everywhere! I can't wait to see a show at the historic Rialto theater (we sadly missed the boat on GROUPlove ), and take a trip to the Biosphere! We had SUCH a great day filled to the brim with thrifting, eating local fare, and obviously scooping up a buy one get one holiday drink at Starbucks! Can't wait to go back and maybe with a certain other sister in tow!

Thanks for the awesome sister day, Sam!!

MS Walk Phoenix

2011-11-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

The first weekend in November my mom, cousin, and I participated in the MS walk! Multiple Sclerosis is a cause very near and dear to my heart. You can find out more about it here. I have supported the MS Society in Los Angeles with their walks and events and now here in Pheonix, the past two years! I was excited to get to walk the Phoenix Zoo with some family around! We had a great time even after waking up at the crack of dawn for something involving exercise! ha!

I like tudles! These guys were some of the only critters awake at this time of day!

Lunch for a job well done! What organizations do you support? Have you ever done a walk or run or marathon before? Baby steps right? ;) Can't wait to walk in another event!

Project Ethos / Scottsdale @ the Mint

2011-11-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

Friday night Project Ethos hosted their final show of 2011 at The Mint in Scottsdale. The cultural trifecta of art, music, and fashion, tours the country and showcases local talent in major cities. I love that they partner with beautiful spaces, fantastic sponsors, all while showing you a diverse mix of your cities soon to be discovered artists! Such a great concept!
Being the "yes men" that we are lately, Katherine and I headed over to check it out. Back in my Los Angeles livin' days I had checked out the triple threat that is Project Ethos before, but this is my first time seeing it come to life in the valley!

obviously squeezed in enough time for necessary outfit shots
dress: Vans (I know, right?)
necklace: Anthropologie
shoes: Steve Madden

really loved the Mint's mugshot decor inside the outdoor cabanas paired with one of the night's sponsors merch!

We were escorted to the outside patio where the art presentation was being shown, and on the way way me have taken full advantage of the deliciousness that was concocted by Tequila Revolucion (I might call myself a Margarita connoisseur and they my friends make a stellar Mar.)

Really enjoyed the artwork that was showcased outside but wished we were able to actually meet the talented people behind these pieces!

artist Melo Dominguez

artist Ryan Kent

Finally met the talented Ashley of Style Phx and Duane! (We obviously hit it off because they are also FIDM alumns)

a Red beauty by designer Amelia Walsh

the finale of the Fredrick's of Hollywood swim line

Latonya Adkins' orange stunner

Katherine and I's love for an art deco looking bust paired with an orange ombre dip dye skirt knows no end so our personal favorite was this girl by Monique Martinez

my favorite part about winner, Bri Bridge's piece- the gorgeously braided back!

All in all it was a great event!
Favorite parts? Beautiful venue, fantastic Tequila bar
Bigger and Better? More designers/ longer show- the crowd was itching for more! Larger variety of music to dance to! (There may or may not have been one song in particular we were begging to hear but the DJ was not having our input...bahaha)

Next time Project Ethos comes to Scottsdale I highly suggest you come out and see the show. I am looking forward to another round of the Vitamin Water Flavor challenge, new music to check out, and more local artists to support!

I Have a Cool Job: Vol 4. featuring Shane Majors

2011-11-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

One of the most asked questions about my career with Anthropologie is just who makes all of these gorgeous and inspiring displays!? Today my friends I get to share with you an insight to the visual wizard behind our store's incredible window and store displays! He really is a jack of all trades, as you will read below! Just try not to get inspired when you see his work in person! I dare you! Enjoy!

1.) Tell us about you and your cool job.

My name is Shane and not only am I an artist but I am also the display coordinator for Anthropologie at Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall. In essence I work as the in-house artisan for the store producing anything from large scale sculptural installations to custom shelving units and fixtures all the way down to the signage and plants.

2.) How did you happen upon your cool job and long have you been doing it?

I fell into visual/ merchandising by mere accident. After I graduated college I moved to NYC and was in need of a job. I was hired by J Crew in the Rockefeller Center store as a sales associate and heard of a position open in the visual department. I was like, "I'm an artist, I'm visual." So I applied and got the job. After working there for eight months I was recruited by Saks Fifth Avenue and started out as a visual merchandiser for the designer floors and after 2 years of working there I was promoted to be one of the window designers; a position I can say that was one of the best I have ever had. I left New York because the cost of living wasn't worth the sacrifices I was making so I moved to Massachusetts with my best friend and her husband. After a year, her job offered her a position in Chandler and she asked if I wanted to go; I of course said heck I've never been to the West Coast so why not? A week before we moved I was contacted by a recruiter from Anthropologie telling me she had an opportunity for me in MA. I told her I was about to move to Arizona and she told me to contact her when I got there because there were opportunities there as well. Once we arrived I took her up on her offer and had the first of 5 interviews for my position. I felt as though the only reason I had so many interviews was because they wanted to see my portfolio, specifically a book I made called "Yoshino". When the visual manager called me with an offer I declined; for the position that was offered, I felt the compensation wasn't enough. Two months later I got a missed call and an email from the District Visual Manager telling me she had a position available for me and to call her. She offered me what I wanted and I accepted. I have been working for Anthropologie for the past 3 years and 2 months.

3.) What did you want to be when you "grew up" when you were a child?

I had absolutely no intention on becoming a professional artisan; my desires lied in Classical Archaeology. Up until my Senior year of high school I had every intention on becoming one, when friends of mine suggested that I should go to art school instead. After thinking about it I came to the conclusion that they were right. I went to the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, FL and majored in Photography and Digital Imaging.

4.) What is the best piece of industry- specific advice you have been given in your field?

Be patient and to not take things personally for it will only destroy your self esteem.

5.) Where do you see yourself and your job evolving into in the next 5 years?

I hope to be working in our company's home office coming up with the ideas or being an independent artist.

6.) Why is Phoenix such a great place for you to have your cool job?
Well, it's actually not the world's best place to have a job like mine, but for that reason there is a huge void in the market that is relatively untapped, and the opportunity to be more creative on how an artist sells himself and his product!

7.) What is one clothing item and one tool you can't live/work without?

I have a large collection of vintage ties and bow ties dating from the 30's to now of which I cannot live without. A tool I can't live without is a pencil; the fundamentals of any art form are done with a pencil.

8.) What is the best part of your day and most challenging part of your day?

The best part of my day is working on a specific project that I love and know will turn out well. The most challenging part is getting done what needs to be done and dealing with the multitude of personalities and opinions...you know what they say about opinions...

9.) We know your job isn't all glamour, all the time- what is one thing you wish people knew about your cool job?

There are quite a few - it's sweaty, smelly, monotonous, at times lonely, difficult, stressful and full of concessions - but it's worth it. The accolades from the customers and associates wash away any doubt I may have had about becoming a professional artisan.

as 10.) What is one piece of advice you can give for someone who would like to one day have a jobcool as yours and get involved in your industry?

The most important thing is to know your passion. What do you want to do? What will make you happy? And whence you find that, it's all you'll need.

Thank you so much for sharing, Shane!!

Fall Additons/ Polyvore

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

Fall Additons by courtneymacc

Lately I have been compiling a master list of magical things I think would fit right in to my current wardrobe and translate seamlessly though the season and make friends with the girls in my closet! I have decided that my new rule for adding new friends is that it has to be on my wishlist or else I am probably just impulse buying (which may or may not be highly likely- I'm a sucker for an amazing deal!) This Fall, I am swooning over lots and lots of Red and Camel! As per usual I suppose! The perfect Brown Leather Oxford shoe, a sturdy (trendy yes, but gorgeous!!) watch, a hi lo sweater, the perfect cape, the perfect loafer, and skirts that will fit right in the mix! Eeep! Better start saving! What have you been eyeing lately? Do you make crazy lists about everything in your life such as I? Do share!

Crop top
$68 - anthropologie.com

Paul Joe Sister wool cape coat
£407 - my-wardrobe.com

Scully knee length pencil skirt
$118 - anthropologie.com

Long skirt
$80 - topshop.com

Grenson oxford shoes
$281 - my-wardrobe.com

Suede shoes
$60 - topshop.com

MICHAEL Michael Kors sport watch
$250 - bloomingdales.com

God Save My Shoes

2011-11-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Friday night I paired my favorite heels with my favorite tights to head out to the God Save My Shoes screenig. It was Arizona Costume Institute Nouveau's annual fundraiser at my favorite museum. Alright! Alright! I am becoming a member of the costume institute this week!! There I said it! Twist my arm! This night was no exception to the usual, beautifully executed, soiree's that the cool club at Phx Art's dream up! Great people watching, great food and drinks, a photo booth, and of course great shoe watching! I didn't realize that until now only Paris and NYFW had shown the film so far! How cool is that? It is a documentary about women and their shoes. As simple as a love affair could be!

amazing self portrait photo booth

Hey I know these girls! And this girl too!

Had a great time, and really enjoyed the (mostly!) accurate film! haha Have you seen any documentaries you have drooled over lately? Do tell!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

This year we went as Han Solo and Princess Leia from Star Wars! I love couple costumes, what can I say? Lucky for you all I opted out of the "Slave" Leia costume, and unlucky for you all in underwear and furry ears- I guarantee I was the warmest woman out that night! hahaha My mom and her best friends were planning for months for this Halloween party and it it turned out so awesomely! Great decor, a live band, and Mexican food galore- no wonder where my love of this holiday comes from!

Me and my mom, (yes really) Amy

naturally Thriller came on and I had to teach the masses...haha

Well gee, this is sure a flattering angle!

With Ms. Winehouse (too soon? ;) and Miss Peanut!

Obviously we take this whole Halloween thing pretty seriously. My mom is always a dead/injured celebrity and I'm pretty sure my "If you show up not wearing a costume just go home" mentality comes from! I love it! ha I'm bummed that October went by so quickly but excited it's starting to cool off! What did you do for Halloween? What did you dress up as? I know you did... right?? ;)

Karen Kane Holiday 2011 fashion show at Dillards

2011-10-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday I was invited to attend Karen Kane's Holiday fashion show at Dillards in Scottsdale Fashion Square. Myself and several other local bloggers (Sarai, Kristianne, Karen, Dustin, and Lauren) at Karen Kane's Shine After Dark and Shimmer and Sparkle Holiday concepts!

You see, Karen Kane will always hold a special place in my heart. I was their showroom neighbor in the California Market Center in downtown L.A. for over 5 years! Funny how things come full circle! I have to say, there line has completely transformed from when I first was introduced to it years ago. Undoubtedly branded a "missy" line, marketed for a more mature customer, it now has total generational appeal, and there demographic is on both ends of the spectrum! There are things I need to add to my Winter wardrobe and things that I would like to add to my moms! I really love that! Ohh, other things I love you ask?

1. Karen is a fellow FIDM grad ! So cool!
2. 80% of the line is manufactured in downtown L.A.
3. While evolving their line, they are completely staying true to their tried and true KK fans, and there really is something for every shape and age range.
4. This

Myself, Michael Kane the brand's marketing director, Sheila!, Kara, and Katherine // photo c/o phoenix fashion week media

my wingmen

photo c/o Kara

my favorite Southwestern print open front cardigan// photo c/o Katherine

A great printed wrap dress

The perfect transitional pencil, drenched in sequins = the perfect touch

Okay, okay, have you found your perfect NYE item yet? I know I am a sucker for a sequin

The show stopping Silver sequin mini dress! Gorgeous!

If you are drooling over any of these New Years Eve ready pieces feel free to pop on over to Dillards or Karen Kane's site and shop your little hearts out!

A very big thank you to Michael Kane, Karen of Scottsdale Fashionista, and Dillards Fashion Square for including the Phoenix Fashion Bloggers in this fantastic event!

Ken Downing lecture at the Phoenix Art Museum

2011-10-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Obviously I am a huge Phoenix lover and a huge Phoenix Art Museum lover. You knew that didn't you? A lot of times I just can't believe all of the incredible free things there is to partake in that many don't even know about! This particular evening last week I got the huge privilege of listening to Ken Downing's Spring 2012 presentation at the PAM! He is a pretty important man in the business if you aren't familiar... not only is he the senior VP of Neiman Marcus and dresses everyone, but has been with the company for almost as long as I have been alive! Don't act like you're not impressed!!

Here are some of my favorite slides...

Great news! This southwestern and ethnic prints aren't going anywhere!

Looks dripping with embellishments and sequins are always ok in my book...

If you know me you know this is the color palette I am most drawn too! Yum!

Can never go wrong with gorgeous Mint green

FANCY PANTS!! My love of a ridiculous printed pant knows no end so when Ken (we're on a first name basis now...) boasted about the Spring Fancy Pants as he dubbed them my heart was a flutter! Fantastic!

Ken in all of his Instagram glory

Mr. Indie Stitch and Katherine and I

My favorite Ken quotes of the evening...

"Not everything I see walk down the runway excites me"

"I love the fantasy of the runway, but if it doesn't translate into reality it's just clothes"

"Black is not a trend, its a constant"

"It's the little nuggets of the unexpected that I keep my focus on"

"When it comes to jewelry, go big or go home!"

"Fashion makes the rules and fashion breaks the rules"

"I'm not gonna tell you to just buy one metallic, Silver, shoe, I'm in retail you need several pairs of shoes!!'

What I loved most about his presentation was that not only was he completely clued in to the industry moreso than anyone I've listened to, but he was also a totally genuine and a totally real person! He was excited and passionate about the business he works in and not one bit too jaded to appreciate his non-famous fans! He introduced himself, took photos, and answered questions to everyone asking. He preached about working!working!working!, if you want to be in the fashion business and was just so real and fun to watch work the room! It was such an exciting event and the crowd was oozing inspiration when he finished up!
Fancy Pants!

Thanks Karen for this gorgeous photo of the Phx FB gang

The stars at night, are buring bright

2011-10-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

CLAPCLAPCLAPCLAP! Deep in the heart of Texas!! Anyone else know that song?? :)

A couple weeks ago my family and I embarked on a mini- family reunion of sorts and took a road trip to Little Elm Texas! It's so weird growing up your whole life and not having known like, half of your family because they live across America! We had been planning a meet up for so long and finally it just creeped up on us and it was October! So cool it worked out so perfectly! My aunt managed to score the coolest McMansion of a lake house that fit all 16 of us! The trip was a whirlwind (we drove for 17 hours :D ), but was the perfect mix of action (we're talking family Olympics here!1st place!), and relaxation!

I swear were twins...the only thing that looks the same is our pale skin though I think... heehee

Hi Aunt! Hi Uncle! Thanks for reading my blog! bahaha

my bff Seth! He is the smartest person I know and knows my iPhone better than I do!

Cousins who had never met eachother until this day! Crazy!

waited for hours for this to happen...

Some horse friends we weren't allowed to make friends with...

Don't mind the picture heaviness! Love roadtrips even when folded up like a pretzel! And Lakehouses with people I love! Especially love that my aunt is like a world class chef and cooked for us non stop! We were living the dream! Have you gone anywhere or met a long lost family member! Do share!

New Faces in new Places in downtown Phoenix

2011-10-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago the Mr. behind the new fashion collaborative- Indie Stitch wrangled a gaggle of Twitter loving gals to meet at The Duce in downtown Phoenix for a Fashion Blogger Tweet-up ! Well that was a mouthful, wasn't it? ;) It was so awesome!

Take a deep breath here people---- the Duce has vintage clothing, and a bar that serves old fashioned cocktails, and pies from Rock Springs, and a soda fountain, and food made in an Airstream trailer!! AND Karaoke! All of my favorite things wrapped in one super cool downtown warehouse! Sheer and utter bliss! It was so awesome to hang and brainstorm about the Phoenix fashion business with friends from the interwebs! So happy to have made in real life pals and it's funny how we keep running into one another this week! Still, I can't wait for our next event!

Me and my favorite Anthropologie find! The most perfect dress!

Katherine so pretty but soo far away! Sorry girl!

aisles and aisles of reworked vintage for the purchasing...

Ice cream bar complete with a soda jerk!?

Okay. Just died and went to heaven. An Airstream completed by serving food?!

that Duce Lemonade will getcha everytime! Here come the self portraits!!

of course, the evening concluded with a karaoke sesh

Hello to my new lovely Karen, Kristianne, Sarai, Angela, Dustin, and Lauren! And old friends Kara and Katherine too!! ;)

A Very Harry costume Party

2011-10-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Ron Weasley and I hosted a Harry Potter themed costume party! Ladies and Gentleman THERE IS NOTHING I LOVE more than a costume party! This was a perfect excuse to have a little pre-Halloween party filled with all of the magic we love from the series! Making the decor and treat stands were probably my favorite parts! As was seeing what my awesome good sports of pals who wore great get ups! Take a looksie...

Ron + Hermione = Forever

Well obviously...the platform wouldn't open if you didn't wear a costume!

Chelsea and Katherine and I

Some festive beverages...

Wand making station

Mr. Biggles was very concerned about that Black kitty stray lurking outside... and P.S. Scene It HP edition is not for the faint of Harry loving hearts! So hard!! I stayed at the snack table instead...

My awesome friend Lizzy brought the Polyjuice potion!

a family affair

I know you almost missed that white carrier owl floating there didn't ya?

Lizzy and Andrew and The King

My twin littles blasting each other with their wands! Check this out- one is a Cinnamon stick and one was widdled from a tree branch! I am still SO proud!!!

Welp my Pinterest/Amazon 1-Click loving heart went to town plotting for this little shindig! It was so much fun and the college freshman in me can't wait to host another theme party soon!
Wanna come?

A peak into my week October 2011

2011-10-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

I feel like these past few weeks have been a super whirlwind! My favorite month is here and its flying by! Eeep! Probably has to do with planning three events, a new project (more on this soon I promise!), and a roadtrip (ahem, an 18 hour one) to Texas! I cannot believe when we got engaged almost two years ago we decided on October 2011. Bahaha that seems so far away now. Not in a bad way folks, just why rush forever you know? Lots of other things to do first! Anyway! If you follow me and my obsession with Instagram you may or may not have seen a couple of these shots but I thought I would give you a peak into my week!

I sifted through a box of old photos with my grandma! Old photos take my breath away! This little fella is my dad! :)

I brought The King to work with me and he was suuucchhh a good little guy! I was so proud! Love working for a dog friendly company!!

A special treat waiting for me when I got back from Texas! A custom AZ Turquoise ring from the GROWop downtown!

That time that life as I knew it in the Twitterverse was totally rocked.

Trying out Culinary Dropout in Scottsdale with my fellow FIDM board members!! Hello Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes! Talk about a food coma...Forgot to mention we are all apparently aliens! Sorry about that flash in the eyeballs, guys!

What have you been up to this week? There is so many things to look forward to! Eeep!

Windsor & Churn blogtalk

2011-10-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

I finally got to test out Windsor and Churn in Midtown with my Breakfast Club friends to have our weekly blogtalk meeting! What started ace an ice cream inspiration date ended up being moved next door to devour incredible burgers and mac and cheese! Who could blame us?
There is no sign out front and an awkward at first (but free!) valet parking situation, but once you get yourself squared away you are in for a treat.

Nothing I love more then when a new place touches every sense in order to impress me! I have to say the bar has been set pretty high now, and Windsor's ambiance of dim but not dark lighting, excellently clever decor, and of course amazing traditional/modern American food and drinks- made it the perfect meeting place for us to talk shop!

HOW to choose?!

mmmhmmm

most perfect time of evening

My pretty lady friends

and man friends too!

come on with this great sign!?!! ....the feeling is mutual!

a wall after my own heart!

trying to make this my life philosophy

Have you tried any new place that knocked your socks off? I cannot wait to go back and try another sandwich and a new ice cream flavor! I never need an excuse for ice cream... and that may or may not be a good thing... I am a happy girl if you give me classics like Burgers, Fries, and ice cream, I would love your recommendations if you have any favorites!

Goals for Fall

2011-10-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe it's been over four months since my last seasonal post! I checked off just about all of these mostly fun plans I was hoping to do and the few left behind will roll over! ;) Here are the top adventures I am dying to pencil in during my favorite season!

- have a pumpkin carving contest (HOORAY! See above! love checking things off!)
-toast pumpkin seeds
-have a coffee date with my guy now that I finally found a couple coffees he likes!
-take a road trip to Prescott or Flagstaff (...err...someplace that feels like Autumn outside! :)
-visit the Musical Instrument Museum
- pick fruit from an orchard and then bake a pie with my gatherings
-try one new recipe a week for domestic attempts
- go sit and soak it all up at a jazz club
- find a perfect vintage cake stand and apothecary jar
-have a Harry Potter themed costume party
-watch lots of classic Alfred Hithcock films
- go to square dance lessons at Charlies!
-find the perfect cocktail dress for my FIDM holiday soiree
-host an excellent and successful clothing swap in November!

I Have a Cool Job: Vol 3. featuring Jessica Marriott of Tantrum Bags

2011-10-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! Happy Monday! This round we are featuring my friend Jessica! We met last summer at a Phoenix Fashion meetup at Local Talent AZ! She is a mom of twins so you know I was instantly drawn to her! She is really a jack of all trades and and is a savvy businesswoman who is not only a multitasking mama but the driving force behind a killer handbag company! Tantrum Handbags combines luxury with organization, and they are based out of our neck of the woods in Scottsdale, AZ! Love hearing about ladies making it happen here in the Valley! Enjoy everyone!

1.) Tell us about you and your cool job.

I’m CEO and Head Designer for Tantrum Bags. We design, “The Most Stylish & Functional Handbags In The World.”

2.) How did you happen upon your cool job and long have you been doing it?

I went shopping for this bag when my twins were 18 months old and couldn’t find it. But my kids were too young and I didn’t have enough time. So when they were 3 years old in 2008 I sent a letter to 8 women, friends, around the country asking them if they wanted to be a part of this company. All of them said yes and they became our focus group.

3.) What did you want to be when you "grew up" when you were a child?

In Fashion! In Fashion! In Fashion! Growing up my family didn’t have a lot of money so my mom would give me scraps of fabric to expand Barbie’s wardrobe and furniture. I also encapsulated my walls with the top models of the 80’s and pictures of clothes I loved.

4.) What is the best piece of industry- specific advice you have been given in your field?

First try what you want to do then tweak it based on customer feedback. Also if you want to increase your odds of finding reputable factories in China check out www.HKTDC.com for free or if you want to see what factories your competitors are using in different countries use www.Piers.com for a free trial.

5.) Where do you see yourself and your job evolving into in the next 5 years?

Selling our bags globally because a bottomless pit is not just a domestic American issue. And selling less expensive diffusion brands because no matter your tax bracket you deserve fashionable functionality.

6.) Why is Phoenix such a great place for you to have your cool job?

Because I can visit anywhere in the country or world to source and meet who I need to and at the same time live in a city where I feel safe to raise my kids.

7.) What is one clothing item and one tool you can't live/work without?

I can’t live without my Tantrum Handbag because I can never go back to using a bottomless pit bag again. Other handbags may be stylish; but they are “bottomless pits” with different styles and shapes where women daily struggle to find keys, cell phone or a hundred other items. Finally women have both style and function in their handbags, which is why we’ve had NO returns from individuals or retailers and have a waiting list for our next collection coming out for Spring 2012.

8.) What is the best part of your day and most challenging part of your day?

Kissing my kids right when they wake up and having our morning dance parties before they go off to school. Having to balance work and the personal things I need to get done every day.

9.) We know your job isn't all glamour, all the time- what is one thing you wish people knew about your cool job?

That it usually always takes longer than you want it to. And that you should ask for what you want from the Universe and stop trying to control all aspects. Once you start to take some actions toward believing in your dream some things will just magically come to you without you even trying! I’d recommend reading the book Infinite Possibilities and E-myth.

10.) What is one piece of advice you can give for someone who would like to one day have a job as cool as yours and get involved in your industry?

I highly recommend interning. You usually don’t get paid or get paid that much, but you get the experience to make sure it’s what you want to pursue. And you gain so much experience that you didn’t have beforehand. It doesn’t matter your age, especially if you want to try a new career. Just make sure to give the company your best because you never know if they’ll end up hiring you.

Thanks for sharing Jessica!! What an inspiration am I right?! Thanks for playing!

-Courtney

San Diego roadtrip with the Sibs!

2011-09-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

Last weekend my siblings and I got the awesome chance to take a roadtrip to San Diego together! We are all so busy with our own lives that it's very rare that we can all manage to snag an entire weekend off! My sweet little sisters surprised us with tickets to see one of our favorite bands, Two Door Cinema Club at the House of Blues so we had to make it work! I don't think we have ever had a weekend adventure just us four and it was one of the best times of my lives. We are two sets of twins (gasp!;) so we have always been super close. I am so lucky they are my best friends! :D And you're so lucky to see more Insta' love!
Necessary stop at the dinosaurs off the I-10 and get this- ran into my brother's childhood bff there! What a small world! Crazy!
Really talented in the dino claws-making department...
I really loved San Diego's downtown! We have been going there every summer since I was a kid and I have never made it down there before! A lot like dt L.A. which will always hold a special place in my heart!

The Lonely Forest the first band who opened for them! SOO good !

Annnnd here we have my new favorite band- GROUPlove!!! Oh man oh man! I adore these guys! The happiest hispters I have ever seen! There story is amazing too (love a good meeting story!) there were all strangers playing music in Europe together (the usual...) and formed this incredible band! You must check them out! I knew no words going into it but was dancing and clapping with the best of them!
Bummer I didn't end up with a better photo of these awesome Irish dudes, probably because I was too busy having the time of my life! WOW! Phil and I saw them back in 2009 in L.A., but this show was excellent! Every single person in the HOB knew every word and danced all night. Twas perfection!
On to Sunday...had to stop at our favorite childhood hangout- Belmont Park! Everything seemed so much larger when you were little...

The most "auth" (like legit..I'm starting it...it'll catch on...;) fish tacos I have ever had! Phil brought them to us ladies while we were laying on Mission Beach! What a guy!! So awesome, now I'm drooling...
Twins!
With our matching bracelets we got in Disneyland a couple years ago! Good reminder I think!
The Mission Market! Nothing has changed! Phil had to stock up on his favorite soda!
BFF.

Have you taken a spontaneous roadtrip lately? Where to? I want to make a habit out of it! It was the perfect getaway! We stayed in a cheap motel, the more people that go the cheaper the gas and less time you have to drive! Many good points to random road trips...as if I needed to sell you on them!

Haute Happenings 9-18-2011

2011-09-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Okay time for another HH round...this time...Pasadena edition! Okay ladies...before we begin...who can tell me what house this is you see here? Okay I will give you a hint:
"Daddy he bought me a blender!!"
Get it? Get it? Okay perhaps I was the only one obsessed with Father of The Bride when I was younger? Well last time I ventured out to So Cal I totally googled the house they filmed it at! Well one of them anyway, I guess they play basketball at a house in Alhambra! Either way! I was inspired by one of my favorite blogger gals who used to live in L.A. and I was flabbergasted that I had never cruised by!

details
Tee via Anthro
Necklace/ Dolly and Boy
Jeans/ Level 99 boyfriend jeans
Wedges/ Cynthia Vincent for Target
Sunnies via Anthro

Apparently really giddy hanging out in stranger's front yard :) What a creep!!

Have you ever went to a filming location before? I love this kind of stuff! I'd love to hear!

Froyo and friends= perfect combination

2011-09-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned that one of my favorite trends that I have been seeing everywhere is FROYO? Who would have thought it wasn't Loafers or colored jeans?! Lately (well, as often as we can!) My lovely friend, Kara (you know her right?) have been trying to meet for some Tuesday girl dates at MOJO froyo!

Why Tuesday you ask? Well, do you follow MOJO on the Twitter? You don't? Well that's silly because Tuesdays the tweet a secret word that if you whisper it you get half off froyo! That makes our girl time about $2 bones for sheer and utter delight! GO! There is one at the Biltmore and one at Tempe Marketplace!

Obvious self portrait! Makeup shmakeup for girl time!!

Sheesh I have pretty friends! Sorry fellas this one is getting hitched in ahem...2 MONTHS!! how is she so sane? No idea... ;)

I always have the worst time committing to chocolatey or tart? Does anyone else hate mixing the two? I cannot do Reeses and gummies for instance. I think that's what you would call a first world problem. :) What's your favorite toppings for froyo? Do you consider it a treat or totally healthy like I do?

A meeting at Cowboy Ciao in Old Town Scottsdale

2011-09-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last week my Fidm Alumni board and I had a planning meeting for our Holiday event! I love meeting with these talented friends of mine! I always leave with my wheels turning and totally inspired! It's also a great excuse to try a new great restaurant and catch up on some latest and greatest in the girl talk department! This time I got my world rocked with Cowboy Ciao, and of all things, fell in lust with a salad!! That's right! This hamburger lover adores a salad...wait for it...

Linds and Jodi

drumroll please.... THE SALAD!! Like no other chopped salad I've had, apparently it's a legend here and I am the last to know! And yes, you're eyes are not fooling you that is salmon and pumpkin seeds in that mix! Did I mention that this restaurant is around the corner from work? Dangerous...

My dessert pick-The Blondie- they took all the calories out for me too... ;)

Jodi's dessert pic- Neopolitan ice cream sandwich awesomeness

Woof. I am in another food coma just drooling over these photos again!! Ready for another one of those Heaven on Earth salads! Have you tried any fantastic haute eats lately?

NOIR fashion show at the W Scottsdale

2011-09-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Friday night my friend Tracy and I were invited to the Vintage by Misty and Fashion by Robert Black NOIR 2 fashion show at the W Hotel in Scottsdale. We loved the excuse to get all dolled up and support Tracy's friend Misty! But really, who doesn't love an excuse to go to a fashion show, especially when it's at one of my favorite hotels?

details:
Dress: Stop Staring via Moxie showroom Dallas
Necklace: D&G/ gift
Clutch: Kate Spade/ gift from SIL
Pumps: Jessica Simpson via Last Chance
Wow what a label whore tonight, am I right? bahaha Also please note- I can only wear my Jessica Simpson shoes when I am guaranteed to only be standing for a short time... but I love them anyway!

(a very alert ;) Tracy and Misty post show!

Now here's a few peeks at the show!

All in all a very extensive and gorgeous collections! Many mental notes were made of southwestern printed jackets, that Red cape!, and sequin covered beauties I need to pop in and try on! Can't wait for my next show! Perhaps it will be Phoenix fashion week! What's your favorite go-to place for vintage clothing?

Hiking date in Papago Park

2011-09-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

In all my years as a Phoenician, can you believe I have never hiked Papago Park? I mean, it's not the most rigorous of hikes but it's practically in my backyard for goodness sake! S and I have been pursuing lots of "free fun" as we call it lately. There is SO much to do all around you! It's fun to be creative and cost effective and surprise one another!

Other than all of the lover's grafitti (C + S= forever), you could see the Phoenix zoo to the left, Sky Harbor airport to the front, and downtown and Scottsdale to the right! It was so perfectly clear out! Pretty amazing!

Such amazing cut outs in the rocks...

My fella who despises sandwiches (wha? I know...) made us a delightful lunch to eat in the cave!

Sorta magical don't you think?

I'm excited to explore more of Phoenix's "natural wonders" once it gets cooler out! So much to see! Luckily we are a roadtrip lovin' kinda couple! Any awesome free fun or adventures in your back yard? I'd love to add them to my list!

Guitars and Handlebars at Mesa Art Center

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend Sanford and I headed over to Mesa Art Center for their new exhibit that shows off, well, guitars and handlebars. There was a car and motorcycle show and an art exhibit! I grew up going to car shows practically every weekend it seemed like! My dad and grandpa have always been into Hot Rods and love going as often as they can! Sanford fits right in and loves classic cars too! With that I have decided that I need this Fire Engine Mini Coop!

Virgin Mary car made from old license plates!

Beautiful evening!

I felt like "Hotel California" should have been playing when I looked at this...

Gas can Flamingo!

The detail in the metal is incredible!

Do you like art exhibits and car shows? What was your go-to family gathering growing up?

Afternoon Delight in Mesa

2011-09-11T00:28:00.000-07:00

Guys I'm about to tell you about a duck pond date, get your head out of the gutter! Nearby where we live there is a wee duck pond at Mesa Riverview and the gentleman and pup and I love to go for a walk to feed ducks and laugh. It's the perfect picnic spot and the ducks are always really happy to see us! Gosh, I really had no idea my legs were this white! Where do I live again?!
tee: Koch @ GROWop downtown
shorts : Corrie Lynn Calter
Shoes: Toms
Sunnies: dtla
cutest dog in all the land: the pound

Mr. King was flabbergasted that a.) there were SO many of these bird things and b.) they kept coming back!

You see world? Look at all of these types of birds- all wanting the same thing, but living together peacefully... Sometimes you just need a little bit to feed some ducks to refresh your brain!

Do you have any cute and fun places near where you live that you go to unwind? I love free fun! Happy Weekend friends!

Fashion's NIght Out 2011/ Scottsdale Style!

2011-09-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last night was AWESOME! I went to the party at Neiman Marcus at Scottsdale Fashion Square and it was awesome to see everyone come out to support and of course shop!

Dress: Hazel
Tights: We Love Colors
Shoes: Blogger Fave Jessica Simpson Agony...err "Dany" platforms
... fashion over function any day!
Necklace: Dolly and Boy

The evening started off with a performance by Valley Youth Theater's HAIRSPRAY! aka my all time favorite musical! At that moment I knew we were in for a night of perfection!

Next we had a gorgeous fashion show styled by my friends at The Agency Arizona! Swoon-worthy looks...here are some of my faves of the night...

Fur and sequins and rich jewel tones? What baby wants baby gets people! It was beautiful!
Next I had to stop by The Arizona Costume Institute's table to visit my friends Casey and Celine where they were representing the Phoenix Art Museum!! Aren't they so pretty and stylish?

It was only fitting that I met up with my great friends Lindsey and Audra (you may recognize them from past FIDM posts!), and our friend Kyndoll joined us too! She's also an alum and a wardrobe stylist!

All in all you can't go wrong with fashion, friends, and cocktails! We shopped until we couldn't shop any longer and then concluded the evening with margaritas and Mexican! Although Anna or Karl weren't at arms length it was still a night for the books!

Soda fountain Stop

2011-09-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

A couple days ago I got to have some sister time with one of my little s who is a busy little Sun Devil! Our crazy schedules often conflict so it's wonderful when we both happen to have an afternoon off that we can hang! We started off with some amazing Burgers at the ChuckBox in Tempe (I had never been there but heard the legends! It delivered! Yum!), then off to 7th Ave to show her a couple of my favorite vintage shops, and lastly, when we were on our way to the record store the heavens parted for us and MacAlpine's was open!!

I have ALWAYS wanted to stop here!! Have you been to MacAlpines? Am I totally behind? I feel like every time I drive past (which apparently is either very early or very late because come to find out their hours are 11-7 most days!) they are closed! Well my friends, it's been around since 1928 (that's longer than the Orpheum has!) and needless to say we were stoked and I pulled a giant U-turn when I saw we were in luck! What a delightful place!!

OKAY...AND THEY HAVE CUTE UNIFORMS?!
Between the music, the bubbly girls and sweets, the ambiance was my idea of perfection!

We had our soda jerks pick a couple sodas for us to try! They have about 100 flavors so since we're easy to please I thought they may be best! Annndd they have free refills!

Ecstatic! Can't you see? :)

Alex tried a Chocolate cream soda, which was like a fizzy chocolate shake! Crazy!

We were sold at the jukebox and vintage candy!

I think it would be the perfect place for a group of friends to meet, a birthday, a coffee meeting, a date (wink wink!;), it's a really versatile space and they have a jukebox people what more do you want?!

I Have a Cool Job: vol 2: featuring Audra Tiffany

2011-09-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!! This week we are featuring my awesome friend Audra. I have known her a little over a year now and she also is a FIDM Alum, she's on the FIDM AZ Chapter Alumni Board with me, and she has several jobs, including her own business! As you're probably figuring out, she, like me, has her hands in a lot of cookie jars! She is crafty and stylish and gets thing done like no other! Hope you enjoy!

(Dress, belt and leggings purchased at Santee Alley-all for under $40, heels from Steve Madden, Clutch-Coach)

1.) Tell us about you and your cool job.

Hello, hello! My name is Audra Tiffany and I have three pretty cool jobs. Yes, I said three. You know in this economy, sometimes you have to work more than one job!

Full-time, I work as an assistant for the Arizona Diamondbacks to two directors in our Security and Facility Services departments. On the side of this full-time gig, I own my own business: designs by atl (www.designsbyatl.com) where I design and make handmade cards and invitations, wedding and baby announcements and scrapbooks! I also freelance merchandise with Game Day Merchandising during special events such as the NBA All Star Game! Each of my positions offers a different aspect of design, creativity and professionalism that I love and enjoy.

Outside of my career, I am the Co-President for the Arizona Alumni chapter for FIDM/Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and also enjoy home-remodeling projects, traveling and working out.

2.) How did you happen upon your cool job and long have you been doing it?

Each of my positions happened because of networking. I was able to secure a full-time position with the Dbacks after interning in Media Relations for the Phoenix Roadrunners. My boss there had connections who had connections (as they say) and the rest is history. My reputation preceded me when it came to being contracted on with Game Day Merchandising. They knew of my experience in visual merchandising, my degree in Visual Communications and as a result, gave me a shot. I developed my business after creating holiday cards for a friend and after a couple referrals was able to develop a strong base of customers!

3.) What did you want to be when you "grew up" when you were a child?

Honestly…I have always wanted to work in the sports industry. I grew up in Sacramento, California where everyone there knows, we have one true love in sports: the Sacramento Kings. It was a dream of mine to someday work for the organization that so strongly impacted the community I grew up in. I still aspire for that to happen, but in the meantime, I am getting experience working in MLB and stints with the NHL (Los Angeles Kings), ECHL (Phoenix Roadrunners) and NBA (Phoenix Suns).

(Jeans/Hudson, Top/H&M top, jacket/forever21, clutch/Coach, hat/PacSun, Shoes/Steve Madden)

@ Santee Alley, Los Angeles

4.) What is the best piece of industry- specific advice you have been given in your field?

“Network.” Whenever I go out to local venues or am hosting one of our alumni chapter events, I do my best to network. It’s imperative to ask someone for their business card, follow-up with them and something I need to work on daily: remember that person’s name. If you expect to do business with someone or their company, do your part to get the ball rolling on your first meeting.

5.) Where do you see yourself and your job evolving into in the next 5 years?

Oh my… five years is such a long time away….you might find me living in New York, enjoying a classy cocktail walking through Central Park getting ready to see the glamorous designs at Fashion Week. On the real, I try to take life one day at a time. I do have aspirations in the next five years—for example, developing designs by atl to be as big as the ever-famous Hallmark, but most importantly, I want to live life to the fullest, enjoy every minute of it and just plain and simple: be happy. Life is too short to sweat all the big stuff.

6.) Why is Phoenix such a great place for you to have your cool job?

As far as working in the sports industry, Phoenix is great because we have such a diverse fan base. A lot of residents here are transplants, such as myself, so we tend to cheer for the opponent on game days. It makes it interesting to say the least! For my other job, it’s a great environment because a lot of Arizonans want to support local businesses. I know that is the same other places as well, but I’ve found it to be especially true in Arizona. It’s definitely something I strive for…shop LOCAL!

(T-shirt ballgown/Angela Johnson, Rose Gold watch/Betsey Johnson)

@ FIDM Fashion Show

7.) What is one clothing item and one tool you can't live/work without?

One clothing item…one tool… let’s see..Tools first: double-sided tape!! I live and breathe by it. I almost never use glue on my cards and double-stick tape keeps everything together. It’s a great invention; thank you Richard Drew.

As far as one clothing item… I can never leave home without sunglasses. It’s either my Versace or Michael Kors’ aviators, but either way, I need them. If it’s not my sunglasses, I’d have to say I can’t live without a little black dress. I have a classic LBD with pockets that I purchased from Express a couple years ago, perfect for any special occasion, that I can’t imagine it not being in my closet! On a side note…someday, my wedding dress will be made with pockets.

8.) What is the best part of your day and most challenging part of your day?

The best part of my day is after that first sip of coffee…it gets the day going and off to a good start. If I haven’t had my coffee, then the entire day is going to be challenging!

(dress and leggings/Express, shoes/Steve Madden)

@ EVIT Fashion Show

9.) We know your job isn't all glamour, all the time- what is one thing you wish people knew about your cool job?

Hmmm, this one is tough. You’d think I have one of the best jobs in the world (and I do), but one of the believed perks of this full-time job with the Dbacks is that I interact with the players on a daily basis. This part is NOT true. I have been blessed with this job for over five years and I think I’ve met no more than five players in the entire five years!

As far as being in the merchandising industry, anyone who works as a merchandiser knows, you work long, hard hours setting a store, changing displays, making sure everything is perfect in its place. One thing you have to remember if you take a career in this industry, is that you are a behind the scenes-type employee. You can’t always expect a pat on the back daily. A lot of the time, your expertise is shown simply by how many sales your company has at the end of the day.

Lastly…the one thing I wish everyone knew about designs by atl is that I made every single card from scratch and by hand. I love taking pieces: ribbon, birdhouses, wood, buttons, beads, wire and shaping them into something amazing all onto a piece of cardstock. The best part is presenting someone I love with a card I made for them and seeing their appreciation of my work and excitement when they see it. It’s the best “pat on the back” one can receive.

(slacks/Express, Blue flats/H&M, all-star polo, watch Betsey Johnson)

@ All Star Baseball Game

10.) What is one piece of advice you can give for someone who would like to one day have a job as cool as yours and get involved in your industry?

Let’s see…As I said earlier, Network. It’s crucial, regardless of what type of industry you work in. A lot of times job opportunities happen because of who you know.

Another piece of advice: would be to never give up. One of my favorite quotes is by Mario Andretti, and while I don’t aspire to be a world champion race car driver, he has some of the best advice for anyone seeking a “cool job”…

“Desire is the key to motivation, but it is determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal - a commitment to excellence - that will enable you to attain the success you seek.”

I have learned that no matter what your goal is, only you can accomplish it, so if you give up on the goal, you’ve given up on yourself.

xoxo, audra tiffany

Love that quote!! Thank you so much for sharing, Audra! It was so awesome to have a peek into the Sports Industry, Merchandising world, and your life as an entrepreneur with her own business! Keep it up, girl!

Guilty Pleasure: Hot Pink and Red

2011-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Okay so I do realize were just a day into "Fall" (September is "Fall-ish" right? ;) here but apparently my color story is more along the lines of a February color palette! Ever since I saw this Scottsdale native (LOVE Emma Stone!) rock this Giambattista Valli frock at the Friend's With Benefits (still have yet to see! So behind!) I cannot stop styling Pink and Red outfits in my brain! Just add the conversation hearts! I kid! I kid! ;)

I think my favorite J's would hit this statement on the head!

J Crew Wool Blazer

J Brand Bright Red Cord

Paired with a printed blouse? Stripes, Plaids, tiny hearts? Eeeeep! Add to cart! I am totally sold!

Home Run of an Event!

2011-08-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

Pardon my cheesy title! Now I shall share a few more peeks into our evening with the FIDM Alumni group!! It was a fantastic opportunity to network and catch up, and of course, we got to eat, drink, and be merry!

The Dream Team here!! Jodi, Lindsay, Audra, and I

Would you have been able to say no to these?!...

Beautiful Linds and I!

I love mixing "business' with pleasure! Why can't you have both? I feel lucky to know a gaggle of such talented gals and look forward to seeing and sharing with these ladies more often!

Take Me Out(fit) to the Ball Game

2011-08-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I attended the FIDM Alumni AZ Chapter quarterly event at the Diamondbacks game! I have always loved baseball games, although we were sweating to the oldies, it was SO fun to catch up with other Alumni and see what they are up to in the Phoenix fashion business, and of course eat a hot dog and perhaps a cupcake! You know my love of theme-ing my outfits so I thought I would break out my most tom-boy looking tee! This is what I wore!

Boy Tee: Pilcro
Twill Pants : Daughters of the Liberation
Belt: Anthro
Wedges: JC

Finally a peek at my darker weave!

Have you had a chance to go to any baseball games yet? Do you like baseball?

Spontaneous Market date

2011-08-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago on a random weekend afternoon Sanford asked me "Quick! Where can we get Mexican blankets?" and I said umm... other than Mexico? I used my sixth sense (championship Googling abilities) and found the best rated shop in Guadelupe, AZ! Mercado Mexico is apparently the go-to spot for all Mexican imports and accessories! You may had seen my Orange Mexican Blanket ottoman that we DIY-ed in result!?

I am excited to do a little home project with a collection of tin crosses...

Who doesn't love a roseary?!

Many Mary's to choose from!

And obviously THIS kitty wanted to come home with us!

I have always really loved Mexican markets! Somehow living in the Southwest the culture makes me feel right at home!! My wheels are already turning for some other projects!

New Feature: I Have a Cool Job! featuring Alex of AVE Styles

2011-08-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

The biggest question I get from friends in New York or Los Angeles after they hear I am living in Phoenix is "What do you even do there?!". Somehow we have gained this reputation for tumbleweeds and saloon doors and not much else even in 2011! Now I know I have said before that Phoenix is a secondary fashion market...but it's booming! My new feature will be showing off all of the cool jobs my cool friends have here along side the Cowboy boots and Rattlesnakes!
First up is my new friend Alexandra of AVE Styles. She is a super cool lady who we are both pretty sure we have worked with ten times in the past before and it was only until recently that I met her officially! She has made a name for herself here in the wardrobe styling business and her story is awe inspiring! Hope you enjoy...

1.) Tell us about you and your cool job.

I LOVE MY JOB! I own a company called AVE Styles, and I get to help men and women look and feel their best on the outside. I also get to create gorgeous moments of fashion for the camera. Essentially, I'm a fashion stylist, an encourager and a dreamer rolled into one.b.

2.) How did you happen upon your cool job and long have you been doing it?

I have had my personal styling business of a year and a half, but I've been a lover of the fashion industry since my freshman year of high school. My journey of becoming a stylist is a bit of a long one. Basically graduated high school knowing that I wanted to pursue fashion, ended up graduating ASU with a degree in business and communications, and chose to do public relations for the arts after graduating. I found myself unhappy in public relations mainly because I wasn't dreaming and creating anything. So, even though the economy was in a major slump, I decided to take a risk and start my own styling business in Phoenix. The rest is history!

3.) What did you want to be when you "grew up" when you were a child?

What DIDN'T I want to be?! haha! I had dreams of being a famous singer, dancer, actress and fashion designer. I still have dreams about all of those, but I'll take styling over fashion design any day. It's way more fun. =) I still dabble in singing and I leave dancing for weddings.

4.) What is the best piece of industry- specific advice you have been given in your field?

If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it. In the arts everyone seems to be a critic, so something that is SO refreshing and will quickly set you apart is being complimentary, positive and encouraging.

5.) Where do you see yourself and your job evolving into in the next 5 years?

My main love is editorial styling, and I would LOVE to be traveling the world working with brilliant and talented photographers, hair stylists, makeup artists, models and clothing companies.

6.) Why is Phoenix such a great place for you to have your cool job?

Phoenix doesn't really have a "culture" compared to the South or east coast. East coast preppy, southern charm, mid-western Americana and west coast bohemian are all accepted, which allows me to create all sorts of things without feeling a pressure of fitting into a cultural mold.

7.) What is one clothing item and one tool you can't live/work without?

My eggplant Balenciaga City bag. It's SO worn out and it just keeps looking better with age.

8.) What is the best part of your day and most challenging part of your day?

The best part of my day is answering emails, connecting with people through social media and scrolling through blogs for inspiration. The biggest challenge I have is I get lonely working out of my house, but I quickly remedy that by heading to a local coffee shop. Lola is one of my favorites!

9.) We know your job isn't all glamour, all the time- what is one thing you wish people knew about your cool job?

A big part of styling is preparation. Organizing the clothes, writing everything down, folding, STEAMING (steam burns SUCK)...The last shoot I did, I spent 2 hours with a steamer, lint roller and iron.

10.) What is one piece of advice you can give for someone who would like to one day have a job as cool as yours and get involved in your industry?

Dive in! There isn't a perfect path for everyone. Just start creating and connecting with people. If you have "the eye" for styling, everything will eventually fall into place. You just have to try.

(Photo Credits: Disco Fever by Session Nine Photography, Alex by Promise Tangeman, Promise & Alex by Melissa Jill (2))

Thank you so much Alexandra! I loved reading your answers and it got me really inspired! Can't wait to work together more in the future!!

Wishing & Hoping / Polyvore

2011-08-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

At first I was really bummed to see Summer go...not the temperature obviously just the idea of Summer! Now, I cannot wait for crisp cool weather, leaves turning colors, and layers! I mean, we all know my coat collections is completely ridiculous for a Phoenician, but... ;) Loving thiscolor palette! Leopard loafers...? Think it's a must! Also still kicking myself over not buying Red skinnies yet! Need to find the perfect pair- any suggestions that aren't the beautiful $300 JBrand gals? Let's be real, I don't see my love of friendship bracelets dwindling any time soon! Will just have to make a Fall batch of them! And tell me dear readers, when can I justify buying a cape like the one pictured? Isn't it gorgeous?! Where could I really where it that is the question! What are you drooling over for Fall? Anything you can't wait to pull out of your Winter clothes box Phoenix ladies? HAHA I kid...I kid.... ;)

3.1 Phillip Lim skinny jeans
$338 - my-wardrobe.com

Felted Wool Cape
£245 - toast.co.uk

Sam Edelman ballerina flat
$140 - heels.com

Jeffrey Campbell summer high heels
$130 - solestruck.com

Michael Kors chronograph watch
$225 - net-a-porter.com

Venessa Arizaga chain bracelet
$150 - net-a-porter.com

I'm so excited for: Missoni For Target

2011-08-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

You guys!! In less than one month (September 13 but who's counting down?;) Missoni for Target ill be available for e civilians like you and I! How lucky are we?! 400 products will be launched with their signature brightly colored zig zag all over them! I am so excited! I don't need another bicycle but this is too much....and that blanket?!

Who wants to road trip with me to some obscure town where we won't get tackled while we load up our red carts?!

all photos found here

Here's The Scoop

2011-08-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hello?! Do you guys already get The Scoop? Am way behind?! This pretty lady clued me in a couple of weeks ago on the free newsletter Desert Living Today emails out and it is now one of my favorite new inbox additions! They send out these weekend guides that are totally great, and on this particular weekend guide they featured this train right outside of Sedona called Verde Canyon Railroad!! SO COOL!! Maybe it's because it reminds me of Thunder Mountain RR at The happiest place on Earth, maybe it's because I secretly hope that it would be a little like (only hotter) the Hogwartz Express, but I have always wanted to go on train trip! Although not the cheapest of adventures, I am sure it's incredible! ALL ABOARD!! Let's go!! I will wear my conductor's hat, we can sit in the caboose, and watch for Eagles!

California Dreamin'

2011-08-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

After living in Los Angeles for five years, sometimes the itch for a beachy breeze and my toes in the sand is just too much to shake off! Sometimes you just need to go! Last week I had a day off and a girlfriend and I decided it was worth the turnaround trip if only to see the ocean! Can't believe it has been a whole year since we moved here, still really pleased with that choice (especially when we got in at 1am and the East L.A. traffic was complete standstill!! don't miss that everyday!) We are so lucky to have it such a short drive away...here is my documentation of our day (got in at 2am, drove home at 4pm) from my favorite app...
Miss seeing beautiful Purple and Blue Hydrangeas everywhere you look...
I have always wanted to drive by the Father of The Bride House! HAHA silly I know, but really!...and since we stayed in South Pasadena we had the perfect opportunity!
Finally found a parking spot in Santa Monica (totes forgot it was the weekend and everyone wants to be at the beach on a Sunday afternoon)
Just call us Thelma and Louise... so glad she didn't try to convince me to drive off a cliff...

Saw the GREATEST little band right off the Santa Monica Promenade Leftover Cuties
soo SO good! The lead singer Shirley is adorable and they have a sweet but jazzy sound!

Have you ever gone on a spontaneous road trip? Where did you go? Have a great week!
xo Courtney

A Peek Into My Week July edition

2011-07-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

(digging through old photos! hello twin! original bff's!)

Hello friends! Happy Friday!! This week has zoomed by, (not complaining!;) I have really been trying to soak up all the summertime I can as it seems its starting to plan for Fall already! Again, not complaining, it IS my favorite season but I feel like there are so many summertime activities to partake in! Need that killer tan, roadtrips, lots more craft days with my sisters, beverage meetups to be had, and surprise adventure dates! I have been feeling a wee bit nostalgic as of late so here are a few pics from my week of flashbacks...

(the "house" I grew up in, in Peoria. So many memories even if there are only rocks left)

(On a craft day with my sisters! Now that I have them both back from their exotic world travels! Making Neon Chiffon accessories here!)
(Mister Biggles at his very sweetest, not clawing the furniture ? I love you kitty...)

(Think I am starting a collection now. Two makes a collection, right?:) Thanks Dad! He fits right in!! Love the groovy Greens!)

(Okay lets talk about the worlds most delicious treat, easy enough even I can make! and that says a lot! I could live off of them I think...)

(Sanford and I were watching old movies the other day and he's like, "Okay expert Googler, where can we find Mexican blankets not in Mexico?Lets try and make that one you love at Anthropologie" Battam Boom Bada iPhone Bang- "Mercado Mexico", 15 minutes away! More on that gem to follow! And we were off... LOOKie here! Didn't he do an amazing job? He's so talented, my guy. Always amazing me. :) Love it!!

Hope your week was beautiful! OH! Aren't we thankful for the 100 degrees instead of 118? haha so sad that you can tell the difference!

Happy weekend ! xo Courtney

Back in Black

2011-07-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

HAHA these photos make me giggle! So serious! Ever so often I toy with the idea of going back to my roots (these photos were from a few months back!) I always feel more 'myself' as a Redhead although I was not born one (my ancestors/ last name is Irish does that count? ;) but I love changing my hair color ever now and again!
(Sorry I have such a blogger scowl on in these the sun was just in my eyes! ;)

Tank : Porridge
Beaded belt: Anthropologie
Jersey knit Skirt: Forever 21
Tights: We Love Colors
Boots: LA Fashion District
Bag: LAMB / gift from manfriend

Think I may go back to the dark side this week! Maybe I will try a little ombre? Thoughts?
This is my Brunettes have more fun face

An Excellent Adventure

2011-07-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

S and I have a thing for dates that either 10 year olds or 70 years would go on. Keeps it interesting!! He has been hinting that he loved Mini Golf and has been aching to practicing his hole in ones so I thought I would surprise him on a quick jaunt down to Golfland!

Remember this??

What was I NOT gonna pick the ABBA version of this video? ;)
(You're not gonna NOT get Randy Jackson's autograph....)

That's right! The water park scene at "Waterloo" in Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure, when Napolene goes down the big slide? That was totally filmed right in the East Valley in the Mesa Golfland/Sunsplash! Most of the movie was filmed around town here! (Circle K on Broadway and Hardy in Tempe, Metrocenter mall, East High School, etc.) Take that Los Angeles! bahaha

I may or may not be playing by the rules...

Sup. you're looking at a champion here...

somedays jeans, a tee, and your favorite sneakers are as haute as it gets! A boyfriend approved outfit!

JUST LOOK at how much fun we are having!!

It was actually really fun! Just $7.50 each for 18 holes, although we kinda hurried through them because it was a wee bit warm yet but still a really fun date night! Next time I am going on that slide though!

Modern Manor MCM furniture in downtown

2011-07-18T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hello! Sooo guys. You know how I have been known to make lists? Well, I have been pretty much compiling a running list in my little red Moleskine since even before we moved back here> it's bursting at the seams of places to go, things to see, awesomeness to taste, etc.! When we were looking at lofts to rent downtown last year, somehow I stumbled upon this furniture gem... Modern Manor, a 4,000 square foot warehouse packed FULL of mid century and modern goodness. Mid century modern/ Danish furniture is my favorite! They have a gorgeous vintage collection (that is always evolving!) and I LOVE that the owners are two husband and wife duos! So cool!

Let's face it, my fella is the important interior people/furniture history tastemaker wizard in the relationship but who can't appreciate incredibly impeccable Eames pieces? They have a retro and vintage collection that is charming but not overly kitschy like some retro shops can be. Danish magic from the 1960's is the best of the best in my book! I am already dreaming up a new living room and office for the dream loft... le sigh....

Next time you are in the hood of 7th Ave. and Hazelwood, do drop in!

fabric dreamland aka SAS

2011-07-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

(I am soo glad that this Coke was captured in this photo op. Classy!)

I have been in the crafty lady mood for the past couple weeks and haven't had a free moment to slip away from the daily what nots and indulge myself in an hour at the craftstore until this past weekend! I have only been to SAS once before, when my bff brought me here to compile odds and ends to create our Lady Gaga costumes... not sure if I ever blessed you with photos of those masterpieces!!

Laughing that the bolt is longer than I am tall...ahh... pretty sure I am a yard tall...

I picked up some pretty velvet ribbon, and some Charteruse and Mauve Chiffon for some accessories I am excited to play around with this week!

thinking about getting the Bulls banner...

Buttons, and ribbons, and sequins, and beads, and findings galore!! Fore totally reasonable prices! I cannot even tell you how I managed to get a pound of leather for less than $5 dollars! This place is incredible!

If you are a crafty guy or gal this place HAS to be one of your favorite sources for fabric outside the garment district (it's hard to compete with downtown L.A.'s selection ). Am I totally late on this ? Is there any other "secret" spots I need to hunt down? Have a great week friends!!

Haute Happenings 7-11-2011

2011-07-09T22:34:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! Sorry it's been awhile... life happens you know! ;) Well I wore this a few days ago to lunch with a friend and then to "the office" ! I love to layer, even when it is 115 degrees out apparently! When I first moved here my mom was like "Honey, you're going to need to buy some shorts. And maybe get a tan" haha welllp I might not be able to wear scarves and blazers any given day here but everywhere you go has the a-c on full blast so I can totes justify a cardigan! I love this one, it's my ultimate favorite color of the moment and goes with everything! In my non-matching brain....

Orange cardi: Anthro
Tank: necessitees
Necklace: dolly and boy jewelry
Bubble skirt: Anthro
Saltwater sandals! Finally got aboard the cool train!

The heat was getting to my brain...

And here I was apparently practicing my glow stick dance (in the Sun it's not as impressive)
I cannot believe how quickly Summer is buzzing by! I feel like I have so much to do! Salt River, Crafts dates with my sisters, a lot more living room fort dates, and a thousand double dates with the other C & S, and sew some cute things! What do you have to accomplish this Summer?

a date at the Phoenix Art Museum

2011-07-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago Sanford and I went on a double date to one of my favorite downtown spots, The Phoenix Art Museum! I know I have posted before about it, but there is just so much to see! You can spend hours there! Makes for a great date and they constantly are bringing in new exhibitions and moving things around! It's new everytime! Wednesday nights and First Fridays are free, so we took advantage and checked out the new Mexican Painting exhibit! Awesome!

Ikat tank: Ella Moss
Grey bubble scarf: Anthro
Harem Pants: Hei Hei
Sandals: LA Fashion district
Watch: Nixon

Trash Art! Incredible!

Incredible detail in this one.

Oh hello there Mr. Warhol...

Looks like meteorites lost in space!

A night at the museum never ceases to inspire! Go explore on a donation only night and then have dinner at my favorite restaurant and it makes for a perfect evening!

A Birthday Celebration at Mabel's on Main

2011-06-30T08:02:00.000-07:00

Saturday night was one of my favorite gal's birthday, and I am just SO jazzed she decided to celebrate at Mabel's! I have been wanting to haunt it for awhile now, It reminds me of one of my favorite bars in Los Angeles, it's quaint and gorgeous with wonderful mood lighting and made for the perfect location for her gathering!

Beautifully lit bar

I have met a really incredible group of friends that are part of the FIDM AZ Alumni Association here in Phoenix! It is so awesome for me to see so many working artists here, even in a ::ahem:: secondary market! We are all making it work in the Phoenix industry and it's really inspiring to see and hear what everyone has been up to creatively in between our meet ups! There are about 300 Alums living here, but around 30 or so of who I see on a regular basis who are all passionately and actively pursuing what they worked so hard in school for! Love that!

The Birthday girl is one of my best friends now! I am so happy to have met her and Linds! Such sweet and funny girls who I can always count on for an amazing girls night! I was so glad to be included in the festivities!

Courtney
Hat: H&M
Blouse: Juicy
Vest: William Rast for Target
Jeans: Joe's
Orange pumps: Thrifted
---
Audra
Dress with pockets: H&M
Shoes Aldo 5.5 Heels
Ring: Vintage

Pantone's color of the year my friends!!

Miss Lindsay and I

Annie at the Herberger

2011-06-28T12:23:00.001-07:00

Friday night my friends Allison and Jesse and I got the fantastic opportunity to see Annie (in the third row I might add) at the Herberger in downtown! This special treatment may or may not have something to do with Jesse's little sister being the red headed orphan herself! ANNIE! How awesome is that?! Valley Youth Theater had better keep a tight grip on her! She is such a natural! The kids in this show were incredible!...Hollywood will be on the phone for her any minute! :)

Can you guys believe I have never been to the Herberger Theater and I have never seen Annie? And I call myself a classic musical lover?! This was a night for the books!!

link

Jesse and I waiting in the sea of people waiting to get Annie's autograph

See I wasn't joking! She was better than a Princess at Disneyland!

Don't mind the silly pose! Thanks to Allison for the picture I made you take in the dark! ;)
Dress: Anthro
Belt: Lucky Brand
Socks : Target
Shoes: Cynthia Vincent for Target

The gentleman next to me complimented me on my socks just so you know...;)

Okay I have good news and bad news... Sadly the 26th was the last performance, you blew it!! BUTTT wipe those tears away because August 20th starts my favorite musical of all time HAIRSPRAY!! I will be there with my Ultra Clutch Hairspray in hand! Who wants to be my date?!

True Food at Scottsdale Quarter

2011-06-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I had a meeting at True Food for my FIDM Arizona Alumni group with a few of my favorite fashionable ladies! We had a lot to catch up on, business wise, aaand a catch up date since it had been all of our birthdays in the past couple months and we still had yet to have a toast together! True Food and its "Globally Inspired Cuisine" had been on my "to try" list for months now, they are part of the FOX Restaurant Group (Arrogant Butcher, Culinary Dropout, Modern Steak) and apparently there are California locations I did not know about, too! They use simple, fresh, and pure ingredients, to create the most memorable and satisfying meals! Very cool! The FOX group never disapoints, they know what they are doing for dining and drinks and I was so glad we had a chance to try it and have an excuse to be together! Best of both worlds!

True Food had a great drink menu! So many amazing sounding options! I opted for the Honey Lemonade! Brilliant! Two of my favorite forces combined?! So SO good!

Gorgeous Audra and Jodi ...

You guys. I could BATHE in these Edamame Dumplings! Holy Cow they were probably on my top 3 list of world's most delicious food! I'm not joking! If you go just for these it wouldn't be a waste! I would have eaten 83 if they would have let me!

My beautiful friend Lindsey and I with our delightful refreshments!

My Turkey Burger with Kale Salad was AWESOME! I had actually never tried Kale before this! Interesting texture for a 'salad' but pretty good! And I felt good afterward!

Oh my heaven's I have never seen so many desserts on one table! Happy Birthday to us! Wow!

Okay maybe I have seen Bridesmaids one too many times? "You. Are. Beauutiful."

Even the sinks outside of the bathrooms were chic! I love succulent gardens, and these hanging planters were soo cute!

If you are ever at Scottsdale Quarter (across from Keirland) or at The Biltmore, go and stop by for a healthy, yummy, meal!

Good times with friends at The Vig

2011-06-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have been following The Vig on the Twitter for a few months now just waaaiiitng for a chance to check out there adorable, hipster, full bar and patio! I just missed Happy Hour (1/2 priced apps and drink specials) last night but it was still very happy (and reasonably priced) even, still! :) This past week they started reverse happy hour on Wednesday nights- 9-11 (Love this, I never seem to make it in time for HH racing straight from work!!) I met up with a handful of friends, some I haven't seen in an hour, a few months, or ever met!

Oh my gosh HELLO Sweet Chili Buffalo Wings...(food Heaven)
We had a great time giggling and sipping, telling horror stories of jobs past and present, and people watching of course! It's right off of 40th street and Indian School and really central to everything cute downtown I have come to realize! I plan on spending many of my Summer nights just like this one!

Bay Breeze...what year is it?! I know right?! hahah funny name but Pineapple and Cranberry juice mixed with Malibu Rum- JUST HOW have I never heard of this?! Good call Tracy!! ;)

Sweet friends Bryn, Alyson, and I (nothing says Friday like Red lips I say!)

We had a great time being really loud and silly, laughing til' we teared up, and timing eachother's trips to the bathrooms! Okay I 'll explain that last one---we are proud to be 30 second pee-ers. Why oh why do some girls like to take so long and hang out in there?! One of life's mysteries! I'll never know! I love these quick pee-ing ladies even more now. HA! Sorry...TMI? Anyway, it was the perfect end to the week! I love bars/restaurants that hit the haute nail on the head with excellent food, drinks, and service, aaannd when the styling is cute and you feel cool sitting there that always helps! So glad I finally tried it!
Happy Weekend Everyone!

adventure to the Wildlife World Zoo

2011-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Sanford took me on a surprise adventure date! Surprises are my favorite, I love when he says pack your bag - let's go!! All he told me was that I needed to wear shorts, comfy shoes, SPF, and I could get a sno-cone wherever we were going! :) What more did I need to hear really!? ha I haven't been to the Wildlife World Zoo (far West side of the Valley) in so many years! It's amazing how clean it is and I still remember the Giraffe feeding and the great petting zoo! My favorite parts then and now! The have recently added an Aquarium and it was gorgeous! Since Arizona is so close in climate to most of these exotic animals (Camels, Zebras, Antelope's, etc.) natural habitats it is a perfect second home for them! I couldn't believe all of the species there were! We had a great time and it was a wonderful summer date!

I felt so Audrey Hepburn here playing with the baby deer. So beautiful and they had quite the lashes I bet the use Latisse. ;)

Right before my new friends started nibbling on my clothes...

A carousel complete with Dinosaurs!

Desert Tortoises! They must have been at least 100 years old with their size. Crazy!

Albino Crocodile! Sanford's favorite guy!

My sister gets to work with Monkeys in the Amazon rainforest in Ecuador this summer!
How awesome will that be?!

Ostriches!

Hello friendly Camel!

Feeding the giraffes were always my favorite when I was little...

Sting Rays!

We got to feed them and I'm not gonna lie it totally freaked me out! Ha! I squealed and scared the little kids! So cool though!

Flamingos!

A little birdie told me there are two-for-one coupons on most egg cartons that we apparently missed the boat on, so I highly recommend you buy a dozen eggs and take advantage of the deal! I would say go as early as possibly (they open at 9) to beat the heat, but there are lots of indoor exhibits to go to and take shade! AND don't forget to feed to Stingray's and pet the sharks! So amazing!

GROWop vintage and growhouse

2011-06-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

If you love great priced vintage, and supporting local artists PLEASE go and have a looksy downtown at the GROWop! Two amazing fellas, Josh and Kenny, own this amazing little house-turned storefront and garden (off of 6TH street and Garfield) right next door to another favorite- Butter Toast Boutique! They take all of the guesswork out of "thrifting" by compiling a great and affordable collection under one roof for us to reap the benefit of! They are really some of the coolest entrepreneurs I know and the shop totally reflects that! Roosevelt Row has always been happening and the real tastemakers of downtown, but what I love about the GROWop in particular is that it's strictly local handmade vendors and vintage clothing, shoes, accessories, and home, and they add new found furniture pieces weekly!

They have done a tremendous job at reworking this house! I am always so impressed every time I am there it looks better and better! Right now they have enormous Corn stalks and Sunflowers growing, among dozens over other plants! You can often times find them whipping up homemade pizza from the ingredients found in their Growhouse! I am not a top chef, or a green thumb by any means so it completely amazes/baffles me-how does one even do that in Arizona?! I love these vintage fabric flags Josh made to hang outside the front door!

Showing off some new vintage greatness on the front porch!

Gina Hullum makes the greatest looking (and priced!) jewelry! I loved her long mixed-metal chain earrings and initial rings!

A peak into the inside! You need to go check it out yourself to see how fantastic the merchandising is! They do such a great job!

Our mega-table the Grow-op guys so sweetly wrangled up for us to use to set up First Friday shop! Sanford sold some of his artwork, and I brought out some new dolly and boy charms! This was such a fun night, they had a great mix playing, pizza smells surrounding us from their outdoor oven, everyone flocked to the cool setup! What I love seeing at FF is everyone out and about, supporting one another, eating and drinking and being merry!

My sister Samantha and I, working it at our table!

My friend Alyson, makes these great wire headbands she has in the store, (like the red and white striped one I am wearing) I really want to collect them all, they are the perfect summer accessory! Not to mention they stay perfectly tied on your head all day which I love!

One of the owners Josh, with our Anthro friend Krizia out to support! Next time you get a chance pop in and say hello! You will be so glad you happened upon this little gem!

UFO Universal Furnishings in downtown Phoenix

2011-06-11T21:40:00.001-07:00

Tee- Pilcro via Anthro
Peacock feather earrings via BP
Shorts- No name via Last Chance
Sandals- SImply Vera via Kohls
Pale skin via SPF 1,000 apparently!

UFO or Universal Furnishings... is a great, antique, recycled, and custom upholstery shop in downtown Phoenix off of 16th avenue! It's aesthetic is described by the owner Leonardo as "Recycletude" which is essentially recycling energies that are already in great pieces that may just need a second chance! For anyone who appreciates the bones in quality antiques it's a really cool concept! He is a such a talented and passionate guy who we had the chance to chat with last week!

The owner, Leonardo showing off his haute creation he is bringing back! The Hot in PHX tee! ha I love it!

UFO does custom upholstery like this Peacock chair I fell in love with! Matches my earrings!! So beautiful! Too bad it already has a home!

The back of house workshop where the magic happens...

I highly suggest next time you're in the downtown area, or in need of a revamp to a piece of furniture you can't let go of- go check it out!! It was such a fun and eclectic collection and I love chatting with artist/designers who are so excited about their work and the projects they are working on!

Haute Happenings 6-23-2011

2011-06-11T21:36:00.000-07:00

Okay I may or may not look like Mickey Mouse ate a lot of skittles in this outfit but hey! I have been into color lately! I think it really amps up the positive energy I am trying my best at surrounding myself with! Kingsley thought he would surround myself with something else... ;/ haha

Off to watch Annie at The Herberger tonight with a couple of girlfriends! I love checking things off my Summer to do list! Have a sunshine filled weekend! (Guess I do not need to wish you more sunshine if you live in the greater Phoenix are...hello 115 ;)

xo Court