Tutu With Sparkles

In another life I am certain I must have been a ballerina. My love for all things girlie and tutus inspired this beachside pregnancy photoshoot. We began shooting at 8:00 in the morning to capture the amazing morning light, which was a essential element in creating my photo vision. I styled the photo shoot with a crystal-embellished white tutu (my sister was kind enough to make), a Chan Lu sequin-bra top, and stunning statement jewelry. I love the combination of beautiful light, sea grape-beach setting, and the softness of the white tulle mixed with jewels. Thank you again to the incredibly talented Lindsay Parks for bringing my vision to life and creating such memorable photos.

xo,

Ashley

This Chanel inspired flower bracelet is by far one of my favorite accessories and happens to look beautiful with everything.

DIY - Valentine's Cards

I love sending my favorite people custom Valentine's Day cards and I happen to enjoy every moment of the process. In fact, I spent an hour on Monday in Jo Ann Fabrics stocking up on crystals, glitter in every shade, heart cut outs, card stock and card confetti. Whether your making a handmade creation or your customizing a photo card, a little extra sparkle goes a long way in adding special touches. I hope all my friends and family enjoy the little celebration of love from receiving personalized handmade Valentine's cards! Here are a few of my favorite cards. 

xo, 

Ashley

Newborn Love

Photos by Lindsay Parks Photography

With only about 5 weeks left until my son Emory is born, my creative inspiration is now focused on his newborn photo shoot. My best friend has pretty much photographed all of the big special moments throughout my adult life (engagement photos, wedding, 29th birthday party, every single family portrait session, both pregnancy photo-shoots, baby shower, and of course the actual birth of my son). She also shot these amazing newborn photographs of my son Easton but unfortunately, she moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico. I love how she captured such beautifully artistic shots without using the typical cutesy props associated with newborn photos. It's rather hard to imagine using anyone else to capture our family's unforgettable moments, but hopefully with her recommendations, baby Emory will also have a beloved newborn spread.

xo,

Ashley

Saturday Brunch

United Colors Of Benetton Coat, Celine Bag, Giuseppe Zanotti Boots

Saturday brunch has always been a favorite pastime of mine but fast forward to life as a mommy and traditions seem a thing of the past. Although, my husband has become quite an expert breakfast chef, I still longed for adult mornings out. Since we recently discovered Kids Play Time, our weekly Saturday brunches are no longer a distant memory. OHOP, is one of our favorite breakfast spots with their fresh squeezed orange juice, banana brown sugar French toast and their famous Dutch Baby! Although it's not a fancy experience, sometimes all you need is delicious food, good friends and a cup a of joe. 

xo,

Ashley

Down In The Garden

{Photos c/o Lindsay Parks Photography}

Originally, I was planning a rather low key second birthday for my son. Not quite sure if "low key" is in my vocabulary especially when designing over the top memorable parties! The party turned out amazing and most importantly was filled with love and laughter from family and friends. My mother has an exquisitely lush garden, and since we would be visiting, it was fairly obvious to pick a garden themed birthday party! 

I am a firm believer that the small details are what brings continuity and design together. The theme was carried out through the details, from the one-of-a-kind invitations, garden mushroom cake, handmade table art, and many more garden-inspired ideas.

Theme: Down In The Garden

No need for props when the setting offers it's own garden throne-like chair, flowers at every glance, glorious oak trees, water running fountains, and one unique birdhouse after another. 

Food: 

The food was perfect for adults and children, simple and delicious. Gourmet chicken salad, crossiants, fresh ham and turkey for mini sandwiches, pasta salad, fruit salad, gourmet toadstool cookies, and birdhouse cake by SugarMamas. Champagne mimosas and belinnis were served since the party is for adults as well!

Favors:

Toadstool cookies, rock crayons, garden animal branch pencils and handmade ribbon flower mini champagne bottles, and a mini garden basket to take all your goodies home!

Forever 29

{Claudio Milano birthday turquoise dress, JCrew white linen jacket with Atelier men's shirt}

Without a doubt, my favorite birthday party was my fabulous 29th birthday extravaganza! As far as I am concerned, I will forever be 29. Alas, as I am approaching my 34th birthday, I am looking back on my past favorite birthday. I planned my 29th for months and had one of my best friends help organize the amazing dinner, gift bags, and decor while my husband hosted my amazing night for around 20 of my closest friends at the Ritz Carlton. 

To start off the special day on the right foot, a few of my best friends (they flew in just for my birthday) and their husbands spent the day sunning and drinking mimosas in our own private cabana at the Ritz Carlton. We began my birthday night with fruit and cheese and a champagne toast overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in our private cabana. My husband is a toast master and gave such a memorable speech. Likewise, I was touched as my friends followed up with their own kind remarks. I was definitely feeling the love and was ready for the night to last forever! 

Now between the 3 course menu and the many bottles of wine and champagne, everyone seemed to be in good spirits. After an incredible dinner filled with laughter and good friends, my beautiful cake and  individual desserts were served. Feeling the love and super thankful for such a thoughtful husband!

After dinner we headed onwards to the Samba Room on Las Olas, for an evening of dancing, more champagne, and celebrating until the wee hours of the morning. Fast forward to mommy hood and my focus seems to be on having babies, baby showers, and fabulous children's birthday parties. Hopefully this year, my 34th birthday will be just as memorable as my favorite 29th birthday party!

xoxo,

Ashley

Vintage Ruffles and Flowers

{Marc Jacobs bikini and skirt combo. Photos c/o Lindsay Parks.}

I was on TheGilt.com one day and immediately scooped up this vintage inspired ruffled Marc Jacobs bikini and skirt combo. The vintage styled flowers somehow remind me of bikinis I wore as a child. I love how a piece of clothing can spark a childhood memory! Lately, I notice that I am especially drawn to clothing that is reminiscent of younger days. My girlie nature was just as apparent when I was a child and maybe even more so now. As a six year old little girl, I already matched my purses to my dresses. The best thing is that my non-maternity full coverage ruffled bikini fits me throughout my entire pregnancy belly!

xoxo,

Ashley