Mamma Monday: Shopping Small

Good morning Mammas!  I hope you had a wonderful weekend.

I survived Vivian Louise's first time being sick this weekend and I dare say we both handled it pretty well.  I've been anxiously awaiting this to happen, I mean she's 14 months old. She's been blessed to have gone so long without even a cold.

She woke up Friday late afternoon burning up. And although her afternoon nap was longer than usual she was a bit restless.  I tried to feed her supper but she was more disinterested than normal and all she wanted was for me to hold her.  So that's what I did. After calling her Daddy who was ironically working the Pediatric unit of the ER I decided to give her some ibuprofen.  Only 2 minutes later as I was walking into the kitchen she threw up right between us, all her dinner down my shirt UGH

I just stood there. She was scared (me too!)

I stripped us down right there and went upstairs to put new night-nights on her and some for myself.
I gave her some milk before bed ... and she threw up again thank goodness she missed her nursery chair and rug. Sigh I had to again clean that up and ourselves.
She was beyond exhausted.
I got her changed and put to bed.
She slept restlessly until 3 and then she was just crying. I held her in my arms and she slept on me until 5.  I was so tired as all her little cries kept me from sleeping. But I had missed rocking her and her sleeping on me. I gave her some milk at 5 am and that's just what she needed. I knew then she was feeling better because she was hungry. She slept sound until 8 and we spent Saturday snuggled together.

What an honor it is as a Mamma that it is our heartbeats that comfort and heal!

So moving on, as Mammas our time at Target is not just multiplied but it becomes our escape from home and into a fun outing.  We buy all the baby things and treat ourselves to coffee, snacks and ALL the things we had no idea we wanted or needed.
So thanks Target for taking our money, filling our days with fun and our homes with stuff (eh maybe not thank you for that).

But as great as the big box stores are, I believe it's very important to support small businesses.  I came from a family of entrepreneurs and truly believe that it is the American dream.
It's hard work, long hours and true dedication to embark on owning your own.

So here are a few of my favorite small businesses that you can find things for yourself and your littles:

Mermaids & Marlins

The make the cutest smocked outfits but my favorites are their personalized pieces!

You can customize fabrics and colors.  They also smock bags.

Just go check them out! They are local to our NC coast.

Smocked Auctions

They're not all that small.  They have a fantastic online shop with tons of adorable pieces at great prices.  I've preorders some cuteness for this Summer.  Although I'm pretty sure our petite princess can wear this and some other dresses again this year.

The Beaufort Bonnet Company

oh TBBC you get the most of my spending on Vivian Louise! And I'm not sorry about it at all (Daddy can confirm). The clothes are just darling and the bonnets, be still my heart! My Mamma is proud.

They even have Mommy and Me outfits :)

Smocked by Stelly Belly

This cute online shop I discovered on Instagram (oh the things IG has made me buy!).

I love the classic smocking and colors.

Smocked South

SS is just a fantastic gem! They are savvy in their creation of the swap-a-smock line.  They offer a line of garments that allow for interchange smocked tabs. Genius! And you can even order personalized tabs, see above. And as they grow the tabs still fit the outfits. Cost saver gals. 

Shower Me with Love

Our favorite local boutique here in Charlotte for clothes, toys and gifts!

Beaufort Linen Company

The best for last! This shop is full of treasures not just for your littles but for yourself and your home.

They offer interior design services, lighting, furniture, home decor, clothing, jewelry, kids clothing, toys and even their own line of pj's!

So go ahead and go to the big box stores for your basics and necessities but for the all the cute things shop small!

Dress Beautifully by Shopping Small

XOXO Sarah Louise

Modern Lines

We all have our favorite shops.  Whether it's for coffee and baked goods, a local wine bar, home decor or for unique clothing and accessories.

A couple years ago I found one of my favorite shops and the best thing I ever walked out with was a dear gal pal.  It's owner is a treasured relationship that I cherish no matter the distance between us. I love any excuse to leave the Queen City to visit this small town on the water.

This shop caught my eye for it's beautiful home decor and linens (and all the blue and white I could ever want) but it has grown so much, offering a wide range of must haves.  From furniture to clothing, baby stuff to entertaining ware, linens to jewelry, gifts to art and even design services .... it basically has it all!

An unexpected trip to the coast a couple weeks ago allowed me to have a surprise stop in!  Typically I scoop up home decor or local handmade creations but this time I spotted this dress and had to have it.

It blends modern and fun design with the classics.  Allow me to define.  The mirrored v-neckline (front and back) with choker combined with the black and white windowpane print creates a mix of elements that's sure to have gals stopping you to ask 'Where did you get that dress?'.  My response 'Beaufort Linen Company, You must check them out!'.

This dress pairs modern bodice lines with classic grid graphics that can go from casual with a pair of sandals or wedges to professional with a pair of pumps.  Gals, I literally go through the styling options in my mind when selecting garments.  And don't forget the unlimited amount of color you can add with accessories.

I thought I would share with you a round up of my current favorites at the shop but there are just too many and a constant influx of new things added everyday.  So you must visit their website to shop around and follow on Instagram to stay up to date on their latest arrivals.

I promise you'll want some of everything! And just maybe you'll add this dress to your wardrobe :)

Windowpane Dress  ||  Pumps  ||  Handbag  ||  Sunglasses  ||  Earrings  ||

Dress Beautifully in Modern Lines

XOXO Sarah Louise

Gal Pal Gift Guide

Tis better to give than to receive!

I have mixed feelings about this gift giving season. I love to bless others but I'm not so keen on the pressure to buy and feel that there are better ways to show your love than gifts.  Like quality time - priceless!

There are tons of gift guides floating around out there, just check your Instagram and Pinterest if you're stuck for ideas. With that I'm going to leave all that effort to all the other bloggers, but what I will share with you what I'm actually gifting my gal pals this year.

It is with great intention that I designed this post around my gal pals.  We all have them and we all need them. Amen?!  My gal pals have been beyond instrumental in my life.  They love me and pray for me.  They are right by my side cheering the good times and drying my tears on the bad times.

Girlfriends are the sisters I chose for myself

 Locket || Picture Frame || Wine Glasses || Candle || Present Over Perfect - Grace Not Perfection  ||

Let's break these treasures down ...

Wine Glasses - Everyone loves to cheers and with their beautiful gold leaf base, these are a unique must have.  They also come from one of my favorite shops ever! #shopsmall 

Locket - A timeless classic bauble that's not only pretty but sentimental.  Place pictures of those who are nearest and dearest to you inside.  I actually own this one and I feel special when I wear it.  I also love the modern design of a longer chain.  Great gift for Mamma's!

Candle - If you've ever had one of these burning in your home then you know why it's such a lovely gift.  It truly is the most amazing smell!

Picture Frame - We post and post and post. But I like the traditional way of viewing the moments with a hard copy framed picture.  We've become lazy. Snap a pic on your phone and with just a couple clicks, a filter and a few hashtags it's out for the world to see.  It really only takes the same amount of clicks to send it to Target and you can pick it up as soon as an hour.  And y'all let's be real, we're at Target all the time. As for frames, I typically grab mine at Homegoods but at this time of year there are all kinds of specials and sales at all the home decor stores.  

How sweet it is to display those precious memories, filling your home with the smiles of those you love.

Books - I believe it's important to turn off the noise.  I'm talking no phone, tv, iPad, computer; you know all those sites/social media that suck you in for hours.  Gals, you can't get those hours of your life back and more often than not you close out feeling inadequate.  I'm thrilled to be gifting these books (and receiving for myself) this year.  It's not about perfection in the world's eyes but about presence and grace in God's eyes. Comparison is the thief of joy.  Hold on tight to your blessings!

All of these gifts are modestly priced and are great for absolutely any gal regardless of her style or interests.  

I encourage you to give with love this year and challenge you embrace the gift of face to face time.

Dress Your Gift Giving Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise

Princess and the Pea

Welcome to my boudoir! When Mr and I bought our home here in the Queen City last year (clearly this post is a long time coming but better late than never) having a nice room for us started with the bed.

Like with all things in my life I focus on investing in quality.  While I've always liked nice things now that I'm in my 30's I'm in a place to make lasting purchases.

When it comes to furniture I'm traditional but it must also make a statement. Classic and Striking!
This bed was all of these things.  Constructed of solid dark wood with a super high canopy and spindle posters, this bed was made for a princess.  And to make it even more regal it's super high - I mean really high.  It takes a lot of effort for my petite self to climb up.  Mr and I agree as beautiful as it is, we foresee it being a physical hazard at some point.  I call it our 'Princess and the Pea' bed.
Now, we haven't been able to add any other pieces for the bedroom.  What we do have are heirloom pieces from my Mamma, a dresser and my vanity table.  We are both very particular and adamant about finding just the right pieces that are worthy of passing down through the generations.  #patience

I believe a bed is only as beautiful as its linens.  Like with my wardrobe the fabric, color, pattern, and textures are all important.  It all started with these custom monogrammed shams and one of my most favorite boutiques.  Beaufort Linen Co. is not only been one of my favorite shops for home decor, gifts and accessories, the owner is a dear gal pal.  Mr doesn't give much input into the interior design of our home as long as it's comfortable.  But I wanted our bedroom to reflect us both and knowing his favorite color is 'Carolina Blue' I decided that would be the foundation for the design.

Typically it's one piece that starts my room design.  After purchasing our canopy bed I knew that the bar was set high and demanded grander decor.  These shams were just the right statement to compliment.  Christina of Beaufort Linen Co worked with me in choosing the trim, color and monogram style.  The fabric is in a diamond pique cotton, with a bias tape appliqué monogram and chain motif trim.  These were the PERFECT pieces for a highly decorated room or as Christina likes to put it a 'Well Collected' bedroom. Choosing these shams wasn't just about bedding.  It set the tone for creating a home that was ours.  For most of our 10 year relationship, due to our careers, schooling and military we have lived apart.  This home gave us a sense of stability and togetherness.

Mr calls these shams the 'Fancy Pillows' and carefully places them on my Grandma's blue velvet bench each night before climbing into bed.  We share this bedroom together and our joint monogram front and center makes a bold and sophisticated statement!

I chose various shades of blue for all other design elements.  A pale pastel blue for the wall color (also found in the master bathroom, kitchen, breakfast room and powder room), navy silk for the drapes, navy euro shams and a chinoiserie blue and white printed duvet (Mr says it's like a ginger jar threw up on our bed - My response "Exactly!")

When it comes to dressing and decorating I like to blend multiple shades rather that matching.

Oh and to wrap up the story of our bed, I can't forget the sheets! You should be spending 9 hours every night tangled up in them so why not have something soft and luxurious?!  Mine are just that.

Shams: Matouk from Beaufort Linen Co. || Sheets: Peacock Alley ||

Duvet: Ralph Lauren & Similar || 

Dress Your Bed Beautifully in Custom Monogrammed Shams

XOXO Sarah Louise

Cozy

What is it about the new year that has us dreaming of Spring?  Honestly, it hasn't even been a bad Winter, not that the South typically has frigid weather.  I believe it goes hand in hand with new beginnings and the fresh start of January.  You're energized and full of aspirations.

Personally, my focus for Spring is on Mr coming home to me! Don't get me wrong I'm super excited for sundresses and sandals but I'm on the other side of the deployment count down (4 months down just a few to go) and everyday that goes by my excitement grows!

But until Spring actually gets here the temps are still chilly and it's nice to have pieces that are chic while still warm, soft and comfortable.

I like the idea of knit toppers like ponchos, vests and jackets.  They're warm like a sweater but can easily be layered for temperature transitions and pair with so many outfits.

I received these as Christmas gifts from both my Mamma and Mr's - they sure do know how to treat a gal and I'm so grateful :)

Snuggle up with a soft topper, have a hot cup of coffee and dream about Spring! But don't forget to give thanks for your many blessings, sometimes living in the moment brings peace.

Tassel Poncho: Similar and Here || Vest: Similar & Here || Wool Jacket: Talbots Similar & Here || 

Dress Shirt: J Crew || Pants: Banana Republic || 

Dress Beautifully in Cozy Toppers

XOXO Sarah Louise

Toting Ginger Jars

Gals, you know my love of ginger jars - I have the beautiful blue & white porcelain all throughout my home; Take a look here.   I have a feeling I'll be adding more of these beauties in our new house; More is more :)

So, when I saw this tote, it was meant to be.  I shared it with you from my wish list at the lovely Beaufort Linen Co.  Another reason this store is a match made for me.

This tote is made of heavy canvas and has a small zipper pocket to hold your tiny treasures.
I've decided that it's too beautiful to be my beach tote so I'm using it as somewhat of a work tote.  It's large enough to hold my computer, agenda, books, and even my camera.  Everything I need to create beautiful blog posts :)

P.S. I'm thinking of sewing in snaps on the sides so that I can adjust the dimensions.

Make it suit your own needs - beach, gym, crafting, kids, overnight .... stuff it to your heart's desire!

This is quintessentially what I mean by dressing beautifully.  From your garments, accessories to even your utility totes they should reflect you and your style.

Truth:  These pics were taken on my neighborhood dock ... beauty of coastal living!

Here's what you'll find in my ginger jar tote: Agenda, Journal, Computer, Camera (not pictured - in use) and this new read from one of my favorites - I've read ALL of MKA's books 

Ginger Jar Tote: Beaufort Linen Co || 

Necklace: Kate Spade || Sandals: Jack Rogers || 

Dress Beautifully in a Stylish Tote

XOXO Sarah Louise

By the Sea Shore

Living on the coast of NC for the past 2 years is a blessing.  In fact I've been blessed to have visited NC beaches my whole life via summer vacations growing up and attending college by the beach.  

FYI - These photos were taken in my backyard #amazing

The beach is a magical place.  It's peaceful and majestic with the rolling waves, colorful sunrises/sunsets and the feeling of sunshine on your skin and sand in between your toes.  I could go on and on as the beach hold countless fun memories for me!

I have a liking for things with coastal charm.  I also have a love for unique local designs.  There's a personal touch found in pieces of small businesses that you can't find in the big box stores of mass produced items.  Entrepreneurship is inspiring - it takes passion and hard work and it almost always shows!

I discovered Z & Z Designs at Beaufort Linen Co.  They design and create beautiful handmade jewelry right here in NC using shells and other natural materials from our coast.  I was tickled pink to learn they are a mother & daughter team - what a cool endeavor it must be working together.  

I chose a gold oyster pendant necklace, as you know I'm obsessed with all things gold and shiny! 

It was hard choosing just one piece - I may have to go back for this shell pendant necklace - you can never have too much of a beautiful thing :) Check out their instagram @z.zdesngs for a look at their pieces. 

Look coastal chic in locally designed and made jewelry by Z & Z Designs! 

Dress: J Crew Factory 

Dress Beautifully in Coastal Jewelry

XOXO Sarah Louise

A Well Collected House

You know those times in life when you've found just what you were looking for and it's pretty much like finding a hidden treasure.  Today I'm sharing a gem with you - Beaufort Linen Co.

I discovered them through coincidence and a bit of online stalking - no judgement everyone does it!
Browsing their instagram, Facebook and website was so enticing I just had to visit.

Mr and I had planned a date day together for a trip to Beaufort, NC.  It's only hour from where we live and yet we still hadn't managed to visit.
This quaint coastal town is full of charm!  The homes were straight out of Southern Living magazine.  We strolled the streets soaking in the breeze off the water checking out local shops and restaurants while dreaming of what it would be like to be on one of the many boats docked along the downtown waterfront.  You must visit!

This dress on the blog later this week! 

I confessed to Mr the night before that I had a secret agenda while in Beaufort to visit this store I found and forced him to look at some of their pictures.  I felt he needed to be prepared to be patient as I was going to spend some time browsing/shopping and that I was already picking out things I would need - trust me their items are so beautiful they're a need!

So he made me wait all day and Beaufort Linen Co. was our last stop.

As soon as we entered we were greeted with warm smiles and as fate would have it, the owner Christina welcomed me in.  Without hesitation I introduced myself and confessed I had researched her store and was super excited to check it out in person.  We instantly became gal pals over our common love of elegant, classic style.

It must have been 30-40 mins before I got a chance to browse the store as I was consumed with our conversation - meanwhile Mr had found her husband and they found a back corner to chat for the remaining hour of our visit - Totally Serendipitous!

The store is filled with home decor, custom linens, apparel, jewelry, accessories, gifts 

and even furniture and lighting!

If I owned a store it would be something like Beaufort Linen Co.!!!

You can even register! ... I'm thinking a housewarming party is just the occasion :)

Our 5 year anniversary is approaching this month and I had my heart set on on Matouk custom monogrammed linens for our bedroom in our new house.  Christina helped me sort through the options and settle on something that both Mr and I love!

Similar to this but with our monogram in the modern style

SHR - Ladies First name - Last Name - Gentleman's First Name

Here's a look inside Beaufort Linen Co.

There are so many personal touches throughout - like this piano 

P.S.  If you don't have a bar cart shame on you - Go get one!  

So much fun for entertaining as well as endless styling possibilities 

You'll find lots of blue & white - we both love ginger jars 

Furniture and all the accoutrmonts that come along

 Christina and her lovely team! 

Here's what's on my wish list ...

Oyster Necklace - I bought one of these baubles and love it! || Parisian Light Fixture || 

Ginger Jar Tote || Bamboo Poncho - Available in several colors || Pillow || Throw Blanket || 

Serving Tray || Decor Dish || Napkin Tray || Lingerie Bags || Silver Tray || Chandelier ||  

Beaufort Linen Co. believes your home should be a reflection of your life - A Well Collected House

Dress Your Home Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise