Going Big & Bold in Navy
If you're following our Pinterest page (wink, wink.. please do!), you've noticed I've been pinning a lot of living room inspiration to our design board. I see dark, bold walls in magazines, but it's a rare find in friends' homes. A lot of people stray away from dark walls because it makes a room look/feel smaller. The trick is to keep most of your big furniture pieces light to help balance out those dark walls (a strong source of light is a plus!).
I think bold navy walls can look really elegant, and it scores high on cozy points, so I'm up for the challenge! Here's my vision for our navy and lime living room makeover:
Simple Wedding Invitations
As I was carefully cutting and gluing Ally's wedding shower invites this past weekend, I couldn't help but reminiscence on my own wedding invitations. I made mine by hand using brown stock paper and navy ribbon, inspired by plans for a simplistic farm wedding.
My favorite part of the invite is the horseshoe 'W' for Wachman. Now every time I see a horseshoe, I am reminded of the joy I felt that day.
The owner of the farm surprised us with a large painting of our horseshoe 'W' on the side of her barn. It makes me smile everytime we visit.
My favorite part of the invite is the horseshoe 'W' for Wachman. Now every time I see a horseshoe, I am reminded of the joy I felt that day.
I didn't want my wedding day to be all about me, so I was sure to let my guests know how much I wanted them to share in my day. Without their love and friendship, the day would not have been the same.
Instead of a wedding program, we passed out maps to the farm for the post-vow celebration.
First Project, First Home: Master Sweet Makeover
We are officially going through the process of buying our first home! With fingers quadruple crossed (if that's even possible!) that our inspection goes smoothly today, we are hoping to be moving in to our humble abode at the end of March!
With that said, you will be seeing a lot more home decor and DIY projects from 128 hours! Since I cannot refrain from any of this excitement, I've come up with a vision for our master suite, which will be the first project to tackle!
World Market Courtney Bed / Pottery Barn Valerie Floral Duvet / World Market Pacific Madeline Banquette / IKEA Barometer task lamp
With that said, you will be seeing a lot more home decor and DIY projects from 128 hours! Since I cannot refrain from any of this excitement, I've come up with a vision for our master suite, which will be the first project to tackle!
World Market Courtney Bed / Pottery Barn Valerie Floral Duvet / World Market Pacific Madeline Banquette / IKEA Barometer task lamp
The Secret Garden: Winter Blooms
Legend has it, the land where our home currently sits, was once a lush garden full of native flowers. I imagine it resembled The Secret Garden. In 1976, the property was sold off and our home was built. Thankfully, the original owner did his best to preserve the lush landscape. As each season passes, I am amazed at the continuous blooms that surround our property. I thought after this past summer, the enchantment had gone into hibernation. To my glee, I could not have been more wrong.
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| White Camellia |
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| Christmas Camellia |
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| Cachepot Pottery Barn |
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| Glass Bubble Vase Ikea |
I don't think I could have paid for blooms this gorgeous at the store. Siler isn't as impressed. He just wants to play. Looking forward to spring!
Top Wedding Script Fonts
Every wedding invitation comes with the perfect script font. Here are some of my favorites that I've stumbled upon in my searches.. I hope you find yours!
Download all these for free at dafont.com.
Download all these for free at dafont.com.
Southern Callie Travels to Northern Cali
During a recent gathering, our friends announced an open invite to northern cali. Our friend was traveling on business and would have a hotel room and rental car for anyone who wanted to join in on some weekend adventures between his meetings. We happily accepted.
Delta has the perfect flight set-up for a 3-day weekend adventure. We left at 7:30 Thursday evening, arrived in San Jose, with just enough time for a good nights sleep.
Day 1: Carmel by the Sea
I thought I was in awe of the beauty of this town filled with shopping, coffee shops and cafes, until we reached the beach- a truly stunning view.
Dinner at Clint Eastwood's Mission Ranch - full of history and serene beauty.
Day 2: Napa
To avoid the large crowds of tourists, we stayed off the beaten path on the Silverado Trail. Some local friends brought us an amazing picnic lunch to Clos Du Val, including caviar, cheese, crackers and salmon. Only a few wineries have a license for picnics -you can check them out here.
Day 3: San Francisco
This was my second time to this amazing city. We stopped in China town for some "char siew pau" also known as "the best thing I've ever tasted" or "BBQ pork buns"
and a tea tasting at my favorite tea shop, Red Blossom.
After a full day in San Fran, we drove back to San Jose, just in time for some midnight all-you-can-eat sushi and a flight back to Atlanta, arriving 6am Monday morning- just in time to get to the office.
Delta has the perfect flight set-up for a 3-day weekend adventure. We left at 7:30 Thursday evening, arrived in San Jose, with just enough time for a good nights sleep.
I thought I was in awe of the beauty of this town filled with shopping, coffee shops and cafes, until we reached the beach- a truly stunning view.
Day 2: Napa
To avoid the large crowds of tourists, we stayed off the beaten path on the Silverado Trail. Some local friends brought us an amazing picnic lunch to Clos Du Val, including caviar, cheese, crackers and salmon. Only a few wineries have a license for picnics -you can check them out here.
Day 3: San Francisco
This was my second time to this amazing city. We stopped in China town for some "char siew pau" also known as "the best thing I've ever tasted" or "BBQ pork buns"
and a tea tasting at my favorite tea shop, Red Blossom.
After a full day in San Fran, we drove back to San Jose, just in time for some midnight all-you-can-eat sushi and a flight back to Atlanta, arriving 6am Monday morning- just in time to get to the office.
Project Tie Bar
As you've previously read, I'm working on some DIY wedding projects, and trying to add some unique touches wherever possible.
The hubs has been into the skinny ties lately, and visits the tie bar regularly. Thanks to the tie bar, my shoe collection is comparable to his tie collection.
The girl in plaid has transformed into a personalized shop, so I decided to make the handsome lads in the wedding party custom tie bars with their initials. For the groom, I added our wedding date on the back to make his extra special. They came out awesome, and I started selling them in the shop. They have been selling extremely well, and I am thrilled to label these bad boys as my first new product of 2013!
The hubs has been into the skinny ties lately, and visits the tie bar regularly. Thanks to the tie bar, my shoe collection is comparable to his tie collection.
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When the Stars Align
What a magical weekend in Carmel, San Fran and Napa. After all you can eat sushi at midnight (east coast time) and a red-eye flight to Atlanta, I am half awake and still full, writing my post 12 hours later.
After I go through my catalog of photos, I will post my favorite things-to-try list (including china town treats). Until then, I wanted to share an amazing jewelry designer I found in San Fran - Julie Nolan. Her unique twist on oh-too-common astrology sign jewelry, is as beautiful and unique as the night sky.
Sagittarius Brass Constellation Bracelet
Squiggly Chevron Necklace
Luckily, you don't have to fly to San Fran to get these gorgeous design, visit Julie on Etsy to find your perfect piece.
After I go through my catalog of photos, I will post my favorite things-to-try list (including china town treats). Until then, I wanted to share an amazing jewelry designer I found in San Fran - Julie Nolan. Her unique twist on oh-too-common astrology sign jewelry, is as beautiful and unique as the night sky.
Sagittarius Brass Constellation Bracelet
Squiggly Chevron Necklace
Luckily, you don't have to fly to San Fran to get these gorgeous design, visit Julie on Etsy to find your perfect piece.
Homemade Guacamole & Whole Wheat Tortilla Chip Recipe
Guacamole is one of my absolute, top notch, beg for more, go-to snacks. It's super easy to make, and it's way better than any store bought kind. I like to accompany my guacamole with either blue corn chips or homemade tortilla chips.
Step 2: Place tortilla pieces on a baking sheet. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Step 3: Bake for 10-15 minutes on 350 degrees F. Watch carefully.. they can burn quickly (trust me.. I know from experience!).
Guacamole Ingredients:
Step 2: Cut your tomato in half and scoop out the inside where the seeds live. You can see a visual on a previous post. Chop tomato in small cubes.
Step 3: Finely chop garlic, onion, and a fresh handful of cilantro (can always add more depending on your taste).
Step 4: Add garlic, onion, tomato, and cilantro to your avocado bowl. Season with salt & pepper to taste.
Tortilla Chip Ingredients:
- 2 whole wheat tortillas
- extra virgin olive oil
- salt
Step 2: Place tortilla pieces on a baking sheet. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Step 3: Bake for 10-15 minutes on 350 degrees F. Watch carefully.. they can burn quickly (trust me.. I know from experience!).
Guacamole Ingredients:
- 1 (or 2) ripe avocados.. if you are sharing, you may want 2 for safety
- 1 roma tomato
- fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/4 of medium size onion
- salt and pepper
Step 2: Cut your tomato in half and scoop out the inside where the seeds live. You can see a visual on a previous post. Chop tomato in small cubes.
Step 3: Finely chop garlic, onion, and a fresh handful of cilantro (can always add more depending on your taste).
Step 4: Add garlic, onion, tomato, and cilantro to your avocado bowl. Season with salt & pepper to taste.
Always Love Gym Inspiration
The photo above was taken early last year. I was training daily and lifting at least three days a week. It's been several months since I dedicated myself to the gym, like I did then, until recently. My 2012 self is now my 2013 goal. Ten unassisted pull-ups, get ready.
Atlanta Spotlight: V-Day Without Ben & Jerry
Ahhh Valentine's Day.. never been a fan. Besides, the boy is on the night shift, so he will be working anyways..
The "holiday" isn't just for couples. Don't be a V-Day bum and invite Ben & Jerry to your solo party. Take this time to catch up with your favorite girls! Boyfriend or no boyfriend, it's always fun to dress up and feel like a thousand bucks. You'll be having so much fun, your ex will be long forgotten!
We are HUGE foodies, and we would definitely be taking advantage of the specials at the restaurants in town if the hubs had the night off. I scouted some out for you guys, so be sure to make your reservations well in advance!
If you remember drooling over Callie's deviled eggs from JCT Kitchen, they are offering a prix fixe four-course dinner at $60/person. An extra incentive: bring your own wine ($10 corkage fee)! Book a reservation online, or give them a ring at 404-355-2252.
Nothing says romance to me like Italian. Mirko Pasta in Buckhead also has a special fixed Valentine's Day menu (five courses + dessert!) that looks divine. Cheers to the real special.. if you make reservations for 5:30, 7:00 or 8:30pm at the Buckhead location, you score a free (yes, I said FREE) bottle of
Mirko Merlot or Mirko Pinot Grigio.
I've driven by No. 246 in downtown Decatur a handful of times, and I'm dieing to try it soon! Callie's testimonial: "It's a-mazing!" You can see their four-course menu on Facebook, and it's only $55.. they are offering a ton of options, and I think this would definitely be my first choice for a V-Day meal! Book a reservation online, or call them at 678-399-824.
South City Kitchen never disappoints. They always offer a prix fixe meal for the holidays. I paid them a visit on New Year's Eve, and the meal was fantastic. Both locations in Vinings and Midtown are offering this special of a 3-course meal for $42. I personally prefer their Vinings location because I feel like it's a little more low-key. The Vinings menu can be found here and be sure to make a reservation before they fill up! P.S. I recommend the duck entree!
The "holiday" isn't just for couples. Don't be a V-Day bum and invite Ben & Jerry to your solo party. Take this time to catch up with your favorite girls! Boyfriend or no boyfriend, it's always fun to dress up and feel like a thousand bucks. You'll be having so much fun, your ex will be long forgotten!
We are HUGE foodies, and we would definitely be taking advantage of the specials at the restaurants in town if the hubs had the night off. I scouted some out for you guys, so be sure to make your reservations well in advance!
If you remember drooling over Callie's deviled eggs from JCT Kitchen, they are offering a prix fixe four-course dinner at $60/person. An extra incentive: bring your own wine ($10 corkage fee)! Book a reservation online, or give them a ring at 404-355-2252. 
Nothing says romance to me like Italian. Mirko Pasta in Buckhead also has a special fixed Valentine's Day menu (five courses + dessert!) that looks divine. Cheers to the real special.. if you make reservations for 5:30, 7:00 or 8:30pm at the Buckhead location, you score a free (yes, I said FREE) bottle of
Mirko Merlot or Mirko Pinot Grigio.I've driven by No. 246 in downtown Decatur a handful of times, and I'm dieing to try it soon! Callie's testimonial: "It's a-mazing!" You can see their four-course menu on Facebook, and it's only $55.. they are offering a ton of options, and I think this would definitely be my first choice for a V-Day meal! Book a reservation online, or call them at 678-399-824.South City Kitchen never disappoints. They always offer a prix fixe meal for the holidays. I paid them a visit on New Year's Eve, and the meal was fantastic. Both locations in Vinings and Midtown are offering this special of a 3-course meal for $42. I personally prefer their Vinings location because I feel like it's a little more low-key. The Vinings menu can be found here and be sure to make a reservation before they fill up! P.S. I recommend the duck entree!What to Pack: Napa Valley
As part of my New Year's resolution to travel more, husband and I are off to sunny California for a long weekend with dear friends. A few years back, we spent time in Sonoma during the summer. It's a magical place, where everyone is happy and worry-free.
I find summer fashion to be much easier, a simple dress and sandles can take you anywhere. But with the low of 50 in Napa this February, I am putting a little more thought into what I will pack:
Blouse: J.Crew ($72), Skinnies: Paige Denim (if you live in Atlanta, go to the Lenox Bloomingdale's for jeans. They are so helpful in picking the perfect pair & the right size), Sunglasses: Tory Burch $145, Flats: Ella Moss $188, Sweater: Gap $25.99, Studs: Etsy, Studio 1980 $44.10, Bag: Frye $208
I find summer fashion to be much easier, a simple dress and sandles can take you anywhere. But with the low of 50 in Napa this February, I am putting a little more thought into what I will pack:
Blouse: J.Crew ($72), Skinnies: Paige Denim (if you live in Atlanta, go to the Lenox Bloomingdale's for jeans. They are so helpful in picking the perfect pair & the right size), Sunglasses: Tory Burch $145, Flats: Ella Moss $188, Sweater: Gap $25.99, Studs: Etsy, Studio 1980 $44.10, Bag: Frye $208
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