Criss Cross

This isn't your every day dress but it is a dress for every time you want to feel pretty and classic.

It's timeless.  I could totally see gals of all decades back to the 50's wearing this dress to soirees, church and even date nights.  It has a sense of vintage femininity.

It's construction is functional and flattering with a snug elastic bodice for structure and a flowing light skirt with pockets.  In fact the wide ribbons of striped elastic are so thick and sturdy I ditched my bra!

I pulled my hair back to showcase the criss cross neckline and added a bright punch with these red-orange sandals.  They've quickly become my new favorites.  I mean you can't go wrong with bright red shoes.  I've found myself wearing them with almost everything and sure enough I've received compliments galore.

Spring is soiree season to me - horse races, festivals, showers, tournaments.  Everything is in bloom and why not add a fun dress to make a splash!

Criss Cross Dress: Anthropologie || Red Sandals: Tory Burch || 

Sunglasses: Kate Spade || Necklace: Kate Spade || Polish: Essie || 

Dress Beautifully in a Classic Criss Cross Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Soiree: SL in the QC

Invitations designed/created by Moi

I've cropped the bottom of the invitation for privacy - No creepers/stalkers welcome

This past Saturday I hosted my first soiree in our new home.

It was a time to gather with my gal pals and a welcoming of my return to the Queen City. 

I also wanted to debut our house and it's interiors as I've been keeping it somewhat a secret.
(Posts to come)

Decorating is an ongoing process and there's always tweaking.  I find myself never quite ready or satisfied with a room but my Mamma reminded me that 'Rome wasn't built in a day'.  You can't do it all.  It takes time.  Sadly, my house didn't come with a money tree in the backyard and decorating isn't cheap!

There's no perfect house nor life, but it's ours and it's perfectly filled with Love! 

I was tickled pink to use these family heirloom crystal glasses and to serve from my antique buffet

My goal for this shindig was not only to celebrate our new home but to also show gratitude for the welcoming our friends and family have shown us.  They are our support and encouragement through our day-to-day and our milestones.  Cheers all around! 

These pink bubbles were a gift and I've been saving it just for this occasion

POP FIZZ CLINK

 And for those driving or expecting a baby some sparkling lemonade & water
Fancy Another Tray: Kate Spade || Ice Bucket: Lenox ||
Zebra Cocktail Napkins: Here ||

Bar carts are essential for serving in the formal room or away from the kitchen

I served heavy hors d'oeuvres and sweet treats

barbecue chicken sliders, orzo pasta salad, bacon wrapped dates, roasted sweet potatoes, 

hummus & veggies, pepper jelly over cream cheese & crackers

Strawberry cupcakes with cream cheese icing & sugar cookies with lemon curd

My co-host all gussied up 

Our moving announcements by Shutterfly 

I have a thing for snail mail :) 

When throwing a soiree remember, it's not all about the decor, food and how fancy the presentation is; rather the company and fellowship that fills the room!

Stay tuned for a peek into my home and design next week!

Dress Your Next Soiree Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday Findings

TGIF!

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is still going so if you haven't taken advantage or maybe you just need to take another look, I suggest you shop soon before it's over or that piece you were watching is sold out. Here are my Picks I shared with you last week.

Here are some looks I've put together that are sure to have you dressed beautifully whatever the occasion ...

Casual

Striped Peplum Top  Slim Pant  Mules  Bucket Bag

Office

Wool Sheath Dress with Shoulder Tabs (more colors including a bright cerulean blue) 

Red Blazer  d'Orsay Pump  Black Handbag

Soiree

Off the Shoulder  Lemon Dress   Pink Peplum   Emerald Maxi 

Dress Beautifully for Day, Night and Weekends 

XOXO Sarah Louise

A Life of Giving

Two years ago I left my home, career, friends and family to join Mr as he fulfilled a commitment to practice medicine in the US Navy.  I sit in amazement at the incredible journey it has been.  In the beginning I was a fish out of water, but I made a decision to bloom where I am planted and today I can say that I am a better person for this experience! I took the opportunity to impact the lives of others and embrace my world.  I served as the fundraising chairperson and now president for a non-profit that supports military families.

Two weeks ago my non-profit co-hosted, with a sister non-profit, a luncheon for military spouses.  This luncheon brings together spouses across multiple military bases in the spirit of camaraderie and service.  It involved months of planning for the committee to bring this event to fruition but it was well worth all the hard work. We graciously hosted 150 ladies for a lovely time in sharing special memories.

Our focus was on inspiring our guests to make a life of giving regardless of the circumstances. See, for military spouses we often come second to the job, we move a lot, and we are often separated for long periods of time.  These things can be very discouraging, but they can also be an opportunity.

No matter your situation and responsibilities you are a special and valuable person that has a lot to share.  Each and every one of us has gifts and talents that can be used to give to our family and community. Whether it's at home or to a broader audience, I encourage you to find your passion and use it to give.  There is no gift too small.  As we grow and travel on the journey of life things change and your giving will too, so do what you can when you can!

"We Make a Life By What We Give, Not By Where We Live"

This quote was the focus of our luncheon.  We had four speakers that each had a turning point that brought them to a life of giving.  Each giving in different ways, they were able to provide insight and inspiration for others to find their own way to give.  Rather than stand at a podium, we set up a stage resembling a front porch - they spoke to each other as if we were looking in on a conversation among friends.

Our theme was lemons, linen & lace.  We wanted a fresh, light and simple feel and yellow is the color for friendship. The femininity of vintage linens and a touch of lavender was added for a soft & lovely detail.

Here are some photos from the luncheon

Handmade Keepsakes for Each Guest: Lavender Sachets & Wooden Lemon Coasters 

Centerpieces

 Love these Navy Gals

Dress Beautifully with a Life of Giving

XOXO Sarah Louise