Clutch

"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." — Rachel Zoe

There are a few times each year when I really treat myself! My 29th birthday is in a week, and it's time for me to splurge a little. I decided to purchase a clutch I'd been eyeing for a few months.

This monogrammed navy pebble grain clutch by GiGi New York was the perfect gift to myself. Some may ask, "Why would you treat yourself during your birthday month when you're already receiving gifts from others?" 

Below are several reasons as to why it is important to "clutch" special items or moments for yourself during your birthday month.

1. You deserve it. You made it another year! Whether it be a new pair of shoes, a trip, or a massage - do something just for yourself!
2. Don't rely on others to get you the things you really want. I've always had this mentality. Growing up, my mama always taught me to save a few dollars for those luxury items I really wanted. Her quote was, "You work hard Analise, always make sure you treat yourself to a little something now and then." Years later I still remember that, and live by that mantra fully!
3. Celebrate yourself. No one knows you better than you! Reflect on the "peaks" and "pits" you encountered over the year. Celebrate your milestones!
4. Have your cake and eat it too. It's the one day a year where it is about you. Live a little! Make sure you do everything that means the most on this special day.

What are some ways you treat yourself on your birthday?

XO, Analise

The A-List

"Looking at beautiful things is what makes me the happiest." - Ali MacGraw

Here are a few of my recent finds that I absolutely adore!

The most adorable pouches designed by Katie Loxton. I picked them up at a local shop in Norfolk, VA. 

I picked up this beautiful Jo Malone London fragrance for myself during the holiday season. This is the perfect scent and I'm so glad I have it in my collection.

Debra Cartwright is a talented artist and I adore her work! We own three of her pieces. This is the new addition to our collection!

Our local wine shop Tinto is amazing! When G and I purchased a few bottles of wine, they stored them in this beautiful box as a keepsake. 

Recently, I have been doing away with wallets and getting card cases instead! All Saints is a quality brand. Also, I own one of their amazing bags - it is simply perfect! 

This Tory Burch mini bag is absolutely gorgeous. I scored it at the new outlet in Norfolk, VA.  This is my go to bag for everyday wear. It has the perfect pop of blue that is so classic!

Enjoy!

XO, Analise

Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography

Shine Bright

Shine bright like a diamond ...

I have a few pieces of precious jewelry, that I'm always making sure are taken care of properly.  When I was a little girl my parents gifted me a pair gorgeous gold hoop earrings, and I took so much pride in keeping them safe. Over the years I was gifted jewelry, and purchased some amazing pieces myself as I got older. Yet, my engagement ring was one that was super memorable, and of course the most expensive thing I've worn on a daily basis. When I received my engagement ring from G, I knew I'd had to take care of this gorgeous piece! Below are some ways I take care of my delicate and precious jewelry to ensure that they always shine bright.

• Do not shower in your jewelry. This one is a biggie. I use soaps that exfoliate my skin, and those little beads can be in a killer on your jewelry! I do not shower in any of my earrings, or jewelry. Also, I am always super paranoid that something may go down the drain!
• Try not to apply any lotions, oils, or creams while wearing your rings. I'll never forget the time that I forgot to take off my rings, and my lotion got all in the nooks and crannies. It was a pain getting that lotion out, and it also create a haze over your jewels or stones. So, be safe and take off your rings when applying any lotions or creams.
• Remove your rings before you cook. You definitely do not want food particles stuck in your rings. Also, if you are using utensils and lifting pots and pans, be cautious to not bang up your rings in the process. Often times, I place my rings in a holder while I'm cooking up some goodies in the kitchen.
• Take off any jewelry when you go to sleep and put it in a safe place. I keep a ring holder on my nightstand, and are the last thing I take off before bed. Also, my father gifted me a 4 foot tall jewelry stand a few years ago, and it's one of my favorite items. It's perfect because it keeps all of my jewelry together and safe. I keep everything in there - bracelets, watches, earrings, etc., and it is stored securely.
• Make an appointment with a local jewelry shop, or where you purchased your item to have it cleaned and inspected regularly. My jeweler recommends that I come into the shop about 4 times a year (once a quarter), to have my ring inspected and cleaned. They check for loose stones, and ensure that the ring is secure and good to go! G will receive an email notification when it is time for me to get my rings inspection. Also, my jeweler will clean any of my items for free as long as I bring them in with my engagement ring and wedding band!

** Pro Tip: Can't make it to jeweler regularly? You can use white toothpaste, hot water, and a toothbrush to clean your jewelry! Or you can sub out the toothpaste, and use dishwashing liquid (AJAX or Dawn) and hot water. Works like a charm! Also, there is the Connoisseurs Diamond Dazzle Stick Jewelry Cleaner and it is pretty amazing! You can even carry it on the go! :)

What are some ways you take care of your jewelry? 

XO, Analise

Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography

Signature Scents

"A woman who doesn't wear perfume has no future." - Coco Chanel

I absolutely love perfume. When I was a little girl my mother and grandmother always had the most impeccable collection of fragrances. I remember always sitting at their vanity and playing with the gorgeous, dainty bottles. Now that I'm all grown up I've curated my own collection of fragrances, that I am pretty proud of. Below (and above) are my top scents, in no particular order of course.

• Eau de Parfum, KAI, I picked up this fragrance at a local shop and fell in love with it. The floral scent literally lasts all day, and is simply perfect. Not to mention it was one of Oprah's favorite things, so how could you go wrong?
• 'walk on air' eau de parfum, KATE SPADE NEW YORK, I'm a big fan of Kate Spade, so when this scent made its debut, I had to give it a try. The notes of lily and magnolia, bring me back to the days when I used to sit under the magnolia trees in Mississippi as a kid. 
• 'Love Story' Eau de Parfum, CHLOÉ, This is one of my favorites, as I wore the scent on my wedding day. Whenever G and I are going on a fancy date night, to some of our favorite local restaurants, I'm wearing this. The scent is floral and fresh, it is absolutely lovely - perfect for any woman.
• CHANEL N°5 L'EAU SPRAY, This classic fragrance, was gifted to me by my mother last Christmas, and I absolutely adore it. Its floral and citrus notes make it wonderful to wear on any occasion. Chanel does no wrong in my eyes!
• Love Relentlessly Eau de Parfum Spray, TORY BURCH, I love this scent, and it is the newest one that I've recently acquired. It is super unique, with pink pepper, rose, amber, and patchouli notes - it's a winner. G picked this one out for me recently when we went shopping, and it is quickly becoming one of my new favorites.

What are some of your favorite fragrances? 

XO, Analise

Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography

Stocking Stuffers

Still trying to figure out what to stuff those stockings with? Have no fear, I have searched Nordstrom's site for a few items for the ladies and 'gents!

1. Wine Stopper. I have an assortment of the cutest wine stoppers. They come in handy when your cork breaks or when you are hosting a few people at your home. This gift is perfect for the wine lover in your life.
2. Tie & Pocket Square Set. This is perfect for the dapper gentleman who loves to get dressed up. Perfect for work or date night, this will be a hit for the man in your life.
3. Fitbit. This is perfect, especially for all of those New Year's Resolutions coming up! This gadget checks the individuals heart rate, and tracks their activity. Perfect for the person who loves fitness!
4. Grooming Set. This is ideal for the man who is on the go and wants to look perfect. The set comes with cleanser, shaving cream, and moisturizer. 
5. Bracelet. This bracelet, is absolutely cute and carries a meaningful message. It is perfect for the lady in your life who is in pursuit of accomplishing major goals.
6. Body Butter & Scrub. I personally love this brand, and this body scrub is fantastic. Whenever I use this my skin glows and feels so soft. 
7. Earrings. These earrings are absolutely stunning and are great with any outfit! I have a similar pair and wear them quite often - they are definitely a keeper!
8. Wallet. Grab this item for the man in your life, who loves to be super stylish. I got G, a wallet similar to this, and actually stuffed it with a few gift cards to his favorite places, like restaurants and stores! It was absolutely perfect because not only did he need a wallet upgrade, but it came loaded with gift cards that he could use. 
9. Necklace. This necklace is perfect for a lady who loves style. It is personalized and sentimental. You can get it for a lady who just changed her last name, or have it represent her first initial of her name - either way it is perfect!
10. Headphones. This is essential for the person on the go! These headphones are perfect for the office or the gym. I'm always listening to music or a good podcast, and these are ideal for both!

What are some goodies you are getting to stuff stockings?

XO, Analise