My Favorite Happy Hours in Denver

Happy Friday!

I always feel like summer has truly arrived when Memorial Day Weekend is here.  I have been getting a lot of questions about the nightlife and party scene in Denver.  And although my days of last calls and dance clubs are well behind me (mostly... last weekend was a fluke, guys!) long happy hours in the sunshine are my jam! I wanted to share my list with you guys of my favorite places to happy hour in Denver!

1. Postino

On a typical warm weather week, you can find me, Jonny and Stanley on the patio of Postino, enjoying $5 peach bellinis (me) and $5 pitchers of Saison (Jonny), at least twice.  Their patio is huge so there is never a long wait for a great table and the staff is incredibly friendly (fun fact, my middle school boyfriend works there. Hi Tyler!) be sure to tell him hi if you see him.  My girlfriends and I (remember Bethany from this post and this post?!) love the $5 before 5:00 or $20 board and bottles on Monday's and Tuesday's which include a bottle of wine and 4 different bruschettas... yummmm!!!

2. Recess

On casual afternoon or evening with friends we love heading to Recess  (it is also neighbor to Postino so it is easy to go back and forth).  It is Stanley's favorite bar for for sure.  It is the most doggy friendly bar and we love being able to meet our friends for a fun pup date - my favorite happy hour deal are the $6 Moscow Mules and $7 bites 3-7pm Monday through Friday!

3. Tupelo Honey 

Ok, this is on my to-try list! Every time I have tried to go since it opened a few weeks ago something unexpected has popped up (seriously can't believe I haven't been yet!)! Any place that has a happy hour called "The Six Dolla Holla Ya'll" sounds like somewhere I want to be and $6 glasses of wine, $4 tall boys, and $8 Cherry Bomb Frozรฉ definitely is definitely a perfect happy hour!

4 Mizu Izakaya

Mizu opened recently in Lohi and since we rarely leave our little bubble, Jonny and I were thrilled to have a new sushi spot in the neighborhood! They have $5 rolls and drinks and apps before 6pm and after 9pm.

5. Coperta

Coperta recently hosted our first Blogger Social Club event (filling you in on this more soon - in the mean time sign up here if you are interested!) and the drinks were so delicious! They made the prettiest aperol spritzes which are $5 for their Apertivo Hour.  They also serve yummy snacks for $3-$7 2-6pm Monday through Friday and 4-6pm on weekends.

6. Quality Italian

Just yesterday a friend of mine and I were stopped at the mall and a group of people asked us where they should go for drinks in Cherry Creek.  I immediately sent them to Quality Italian.  The scene is so fun and food is seriously heaven in your mouth! Not happy hour, but still amazing, they did just open for brunch - woo hoo!!!

7. The Way Back

The Way Back has the most creative cocktails I have ever tried.  The bartender was like a mind reader.  I told him specifically what I didn't love and he brought me my favorite drink that I have ever had (I wish I could remember all of the ingredients... but it was delicious!).  Take a peek at their yummy happy hour menu here!

8. Linger

Always a fan fav. Always has been, and always will be on my list for friends when they are coming to visit to stop by for happy hour, dinner or bottomless brunch! And the rooftop is the perfect spot to sit and and enjoy views of the city in the summer (see a few pics from last summer here).  I love their $6 prosecco, $5 cocktails, and $5 snacks Monday - Friday 4-6:30!

9. Avanti

They don't have any specials per se, but it is one of the best views of downtown and it is the perfect place to go with a group because of the cafeteria style set up! Drinks are typically about $10

10.  Toss Up

It was a toss up between Los Chingones, LaLa's, and the Art Hotel's Fire Lounge and my friend Molly we are traveling with this weekend broke the three way tie and said that she and her fiancรฉ love the views at the Fire Lounge!

We are just leaving on our Colorado road trip, what are your plans for the long weekend?! Would love any recommendations for Palisade or Telluride!

30th Birthday Lessons

Hi Friends,

Oh hi, its me.. I'm Abby and I'm 30??? WHHHAAAA, where has the time gone?!!! I remember crying in 5th grade because I didn't want to go to outdoor camp in 6th grade because after outdoor camp meant middle school, then high school, then college, then marriage, then you're 30!! Welp, 12 year old self, you were right!  I have been struggling all week with this birthday, but I woke up today and am so excited about this next chapter.  I think turning a new year older always brings a little reflection, transitioning into a new decade brings a whole lot of reflection.  Through these past few days I've come up with a list of advice that I would share with my younger self and thought I'd share as a reminder to me and hopefully helpful to you too:

Location: Sweet Cooies Ice Cream // Photography: Jenna Sparks

  • Be Kind

This seems simple and obvious, I know.  I've found when I am having a bad day and the last thing in the world that I want to do is be friendly to anyone other than my dog, doing something nice for another human makes my day instantly better.  Kindness makes people happy - happiness makes you laugh - laughter is the best medicine and keeps you young.... so pretty much being kind is the fountain of youth! 

  • Find Your Passion

They say that if you do something you love you will never work a day in your life.  I am not entirely sure that is correct.  I think once you find something you love you will work your a** off like never before to make sure that it succeeds.  Before starting Denver Darling I worked on The Hill in DC, in the non-profit space as a fundraiser, and also at a PR agency.  Each were great jobs, but never got me excited to wake up early or well into the night like I do now.  

  • Be Active

Do something active every. single. day! Before I found workouts that I loved I would stress about working out.  I would plan a trip to the gym days or a week in advance.  I realize now that was because I never loved the exercise I was doing and was just so dang bored at the gym! I fell in love with CorePower Yoga, it turned into an every day thing for me and now I alternate, yoga, CycleBar, hiking, skiing, running, and walking with Sir Stanley.  

  • Don't Diet (seriously)

Just don't do it! If you know me personally, you know that up until recently I was always on some crazy diet.  I realize now that I missed out on some fun times and delicious meals to a save a few extra cals.  I believe that my metabolism has finally kicked in at 30 because I am eating normally and enjoying what my body is craving.  Eat the damn ice cream cone and enjoy it (and this new spot Sweet Cooies just might be the cutest place to do that!)! #yolo

  • Quality over Quantity

My early 20's self worried about doing as much in one day as humanly possible and spending little time with as many people that didn't mean all that much to me.  Now I spend more time doing the things I love with less people that I care the most about.

  • Roadtrip

Jonny and I have been to some fun places for sure (last year we spent my birthday in Thailand which was a highlight!), but one of my favorite trips to date was a last minute road trip we took to Montana.  We took our time, and stopped for hikes, pictures, interesting biker bars and listened to Hamilton on repeat.  We can't wait to do another this summer!

  • Know your go-to's

Find 2 favorite restaurants that you love that are perfect to recommend to friends for brunch, that you can always drop in and have a great meal and perfect for date night (we love Postino and Linger here in Denver).  Memorize a delicious, but easy recipe that you can whip up for guests or take to a friend's (this dessert is always a hit!). Know your go-to beverage orders... mine are prosecco, an oaky chardonnay (this one is sparkly and gives 15% back to charity!), and Cider!

Enjoy your weekend!! I would love to hear your favorite kernels of wisdom always feel free to email or share in the comments below.

xo

To Market to Market

Hi Guys,

I hope you have had a wonderful week so far! It has been so beautiful here - it has really been a hard week to get anything done because I just want to be outside enjoying the sunshine.  Does that ever happen to you?  When you feel like a 5th grader just gazing out the window yearning for recess - I have felt like that all week!

As most of you know, I have a serious thang for farmers markets.  Exploring a new one makes me giddy and wandering around a familiar one is always relaxing and brings a smile to my face.  I recently partnered with Cherry Creek Lifestyle Magazine to share some of my favorite things about the new farmers market at Union Station in Denver (read it here). 

This will forever be one of my favorite shoots, and favorite days.  It was one of our last outings with Mr. Brown and it was perfect.  I am so thankful to Cherry Creek Lifestyle Magazine for honoring our boy and making him the cover boy of their "Dog Days of Summer" issue this month.

Whenever I visit a farmers market I love chatting with the vendors and learning about the products that they are so passionate about and have clearly put their heart and soul into.  I was obviously immediately drawn to the beautiful peonies that The Fresh Herb Company had at their stand.  However, I was even more intrigued and loved learning about the Field to Vase dinner they host in their fresh flower farm annually... I am so jealous that Zoe is going next weekend (August 13th) , we will be out of town and I can't wait to see the pictures!

Read about the rest of my favorite vendors from the Union Station Farmers Market in the current issue of Cherry Creek Lifestyle Magazine.  I would love to hear about your favorite farmers markets or vendors around town!

My dress is out of stock, but I also love these (this, this, and this) similar white dresses (all on sale!).  And I have had these wedges forever - they are so comfy and I love that they still look brand new.

Have a great day!

xo

no ticket, no problem

Hi Guys!

Hope you had a wonderful weekend and it's been a great week so far.  Jonny and I had a blast in Chicago celebrating our friends and just loved exploring the city.  We spent all day Sunday, with a big group of friends, riding from neighborhood to neighborhood, along the Navy Pier with their bike share program, it was such a fun way to sightsee.

We always love to travel and spend time with friends, but we are home for a few weeks and I am so excited to spend some time in our own wonderful city for a while.  

Amazing restaurants are opening right and left in Denver, but Jonny and I have our tried and true favorites... and Linger is one of them.  They opened a few years ago, but it continues to be one of the best places for brunch and happy hour and our go to suggestion for out of town guests (the view is fantastic).  It is nice to be home to be reminded of the little gems right in our own back yard.

I do love that this dress feels like a vacation all on its own... no plane or TSA headache needed.  It is also on sale ($143) with just a few sizes left (I am wearing a 2 for sizing purposes).  All of Mara Hoffman's pieces feel like a tropical getaway - I also love this one, this one, and this one (also on sale).  Right now is the perfect time to stock up on summer dresses since brands and retailers are getting ready to launch fall lines and they need to make room (jokes on them because there is so much summer left - hehe!).  My purse has been one of my favorite last minute buys this summer - especially since it was only $12! The quality is great and I love adding a bright pop of color to any outfit.

Working on a few Anniversary Sale roundups over the next few days, let me know if there is anything you are loving and would like me to focus on.

xo

Father's Day Fun

Happy Monday,

I hope your week is off to a great start and had a wonderful weekend with your families.  This past weekend we had a lot of celebrating since Zoe turned 25 and Father's Day happened to fall on the same day.  We ended up at Stones, a new adorable spot just around the corner for several of the occasions.... you have to try it!

I loved reading everyone's social media posts about their father's yesterday.  Our dad is a pretty special guy - he has shown my sisters and me that kindness and generosity go a long way.  Although there are so many things that my dad has taught me - like "there is no crying in baseball,", but "it's ok to throw like a girl."  There are a few lessons that that have stuck with me and I hope to instill in our kids someday.

He taught us that you are only as good as your word.  I still remember the disappointed look on my dad's face when he found out that I forged his signature so I could get out of gym class in middle school (I didn't want to mess up my hair.... priorities, right?).  My teacher called him and I immediately knew why he was standing in the hallway to pick me up - his face said it all and he explained to me that you are only as good as your word.  I am sure there have been a few slip ups along the way, but honesty was instilled in me in that moment.  

My sisters and I were quite the handful - I can imagine raising three girls would be serious a task and I applaud our parents daily... As our friends and family are starting to have kids, I realize parenting is not the easy job it once seemed.   One thing that my dad would say (says) to us regularly is that beauty only matters from inside.  As little girls if we mentioned that someone was pretty, he would point to our heart and say, "where does beauty matter?" I think this is such an important thing for a little girl to learn - it teaches kindness and confidence in a few short words and something that has stuck with my sisters and me since day one.

I would love to hear your favorite lessons that have stuck with you! Feel free to comment below or email them.  Jonny and I have some fun travel coming up this week.  Be sure to follow along on snapchat (Username: denver.darling).  

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Relaxing in our City

Hi Guys,

I hope you had a great weekend and wonderful start to your week.  Can I just tell you, I have really enjoyed this moth so far?!  For us, May always seems to be a calm period.... the calm before the wonderful, craziness, of showers, and weddings, BBQ's, and travel that seem to sometimes overtake the next several months.  We love the craziness, but we so enjoy our home and our lovely city, and we often take them both for granted.

Last weekend, Jonny and I (and Charlie Brown of course) spent the weekend relaxing just a few miles from home, but felt like we were thousands of miles away.  It was such a nice little retreat for us without the stress of traveling.

As I mentioned (here) - the weekend was quite rainy and we had big plans to play tourist and enjoy some outdoor activities around Downtown.  Although, mother nature had other plans (it was FAREEEEZING), we still took in some of the sights that we often overlook as locals.

After checking in Friday evening, and getting Mr. Brown situated, Jonny and I rushed to our event (since we tend to run on the late side.... ooops).  It was nice that it was just up the street, however.  We had such a fun night and my dress was so comfortable and easy to dance in all night long.  My gown is from Rent the Runway here , also like these pretty blue options (here, here, here).

Since it was snowing Saturday, we worked out in the hotel gym, watched some seriously good (Jonny would disagree) television and watched the snow fall on the city for most of the day.  Finally, around 6pm we decided it was probably time to socialize with other life forms other than Charlie Brown, and made our way down to The Nickel before heading to the DCPA to see Sweeney Todd.  We enjoyed some of the most creative cocktails I have had and a delicious charcuterie before going to the show.  I received several questions about my pink dress ($50) that I wore that night... I am wearing an XS and it runs true to size.  It is really one of my favorite bargain buys that is perfect for fall - spring.  (Note - it is a Chicwish dress and I have noticed their shipping can range from 2 weeks - 1 month unless you request expedited shipping).  Also, there are still a few sizes of my Valentino dupes here ($70).

We were sad to leave on Sunday and really did everything we could to move in the place (hehe).  Am I the only one who watched The Sweet Life of Zach and Cody on Disney growing up?!  I was always so jealous of them... Ok, back to adulthood.  The staff at Hotel Teatro reminded us of the hotel where we got married - after a couple days, everyone knew us and Mr. Brown by name and they went above and beyond to accommodate even silly requests.  We requested a late check out, then enjoyed Sunday morning cocktails in the lounge of The Nickel (such a sweet spot to just relax and have a drink or play games!).  We also saw a group of high schoolers taking prom photos the night before, which made me think several things - 1) It has been a minute since I was in high school - yikes. 2) Why weren't we that creative? Every high school dance photo I have is on our stair case or next to the piano... (original) 3) Prom dresses are sooooo much better, oh my goodness!  

The end of our relaxing weekend was topped off by a fabulous brunch by Chef Anthony from The Nickel at Hotel Teatro.  Everything was delicious and will definitely be back for the torta... so yummy.  We will definitely be making staycations a regular thing.  They are so easy and such a great way to reset and see little bits of your own backyard that you might normally overlook.  

Where is your favorite spot to staycation? Hope you have a great rest of your week!

xo

Photography: Corey Anthony

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Spring Fling with Swoozies

Happy Derby Day, Friends

I don't know about you, but I get a little excited about frilly dressing and hat wearing all day.  I just learned that Denver is second only to Louisville when it comes to the amount of people celebrating the day.  Not sure why or how that happened, but I am guessing it has something to do with the fact that we just like an excuse to dress up and have a good time... why not?!

I started Denver Darling almost one week ago, next week, and the one thing that I didn't realize would be such an amazing perk of this blog ride, is the sweet and like minded friends I would make a long the way.  Recently I got to spend an evening with some of my favorite blogging gals and we could not have had a better time. 

We enjoyed some of the tastiest treats from Coohills and were delighted with the adorable table setting and other goodies from Swoozie's.  I love their assortment of disposable table runners, I have used them for several events and they are such a great way to add to your theme and give a great pop of color without breaking the bank.  I also love these mix and match Kate Spade appetizer and dessert dishes, I am so excited to use my set for Mother's Day brunch this weekend.

If you have been following along for a little while now, you know that I never met a monogram that I didn't like :)..  I think a monogram adds such a special touch to an everyday item.  I love our sun hats (which will also be doubling as my Derby hat this year) and totes  for a fun in the sun bachelorette party.  For my bachelorette my bridesmaids ordered personalized beach towels (like these) and matching bags, similar to these, and stuffed them full of weekend essentials (magazines, cheap sunglasses, sunscreen, and tons of water).  I also think these totes would be great for the new graduate heading to school.  I have been carrying my laptop around in my tote lately and know it would be perfect for my little cousin heading to college next year.... I never loved carrying a traditional backpack when I was in school.

I saw this dress and fell for it immediately (also cute without the cutout here).  I love investing in pretty pieces that can be dressed up or down and this dress certainly can be.  I have already worn it with these flat sandals, these chunky sandals, and these pumps to dress it up.  

Swoozie's is offering 20% off to Denver Darling readers in store and online with code DENVERDARLING through May 31st.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend - would love to hear about your Derby Day!

xo

Photography: Corey Anthony

This post is in collaboration with Swoozie's. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! 

Perfect Picnicing

Happy Monday, Friends,

I hope you had a wonderful weekend enjoying the spring weather.  We made plans early in the week to do some spring cleaning, and spend the weekend inside organizing.... Well, the beautiful weather was calling our name, and of course we spent little of our weekend in doors cleaning (oops!).  I did switch my winter and spring clothes out, which always feels like a fresh update and made me feel like we accomplished at least a little cleaning.   Can you blame me?

Picnics in the park are such a fun way to enjoy the beautiful day with each other and friends.  We love being outside as much as possible, so once the weather warms we picnic a lot.  It is a fun date for us and love that we can, of course, bring Mr. Brown.  

We try and make our picnics as hassle free as possible so our time is spent enjoying the outdoors and our friends company. I actually threw all of the fruit we had on hand in a bowl and called my new favorite cheese shop down the street, Cheese and Provisions,  to put together an assortment.  I showed up and was so surprised at the gorgeous and delicious spread they arranged for us.  Also, our picnic basket is the cutest and has been a game changer.  It has all of the essentials for the perfect picnic including a cooler in the bottom.  I was so excited when I found it - it is also quite a bit more affordable than others I have seen (but also love this one and this one).  

I have been wearing all of my new J.McLaughlin pieces non stop.  As I mentioned (here), they just opened their first store near us and I couldn't be more excited! The colors are so bright and perfect for spring and summer and the fun patterns are just so sweet and adorable.  These scalloped bumble bee shorts have been perfect for zipping around town on our scooter with Jonny - no, I will never ride alone again, and no there were no injuries this time (read about my silly scooter crash here).  I love their assortment of men's shorts too.  Jonny's shorts have tiny surfers on them which he also wore while on the beach last weekend.  Also this sweater is a great weight for spring days and chilly summer evenings and comes in several other pretty colors... I am usually a pink lady, but have really been loving yellow lately.

I hope you have wonderful week - I would love to hear your favorite picnic stories.  I have loved hearing about all of your trips planned to our fun city, keep them coming, alway happy to answer any questions below or at abby@denverdarling.com.  

(shop both of our looks below)

xo

Photography:  Corey Anthony

This post is in collaboration with J.McLaughlin. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! 

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T for Me!

Hi Friends, Happy Tuesday!

I hope you had a wonderful and relaxing weekend!  

Until a few months ago, I worked in a stuffy, small cubicle every day from 9-5.  I loved the job, but the scenery was lacking to say the least.  Since starting my own business I have had to get used to setting my own hours so I am not constantly glued to my devices (which as a blogger is hard to do).  My friend Bethany (here), also recently started working from home and suggested we spend a day each week working from a coffee shop to ensure that we are getting out of the house (and ensuring we change out of our pajamas at a decent hour).  

We have loved exploring different spots around the city, and recently discovered Platform T, one of my favorite spots yet!  I love that they specialize in interesting teas - even offering signature tea drinks - since I am not the biggest coffee drinker it is fun to get to enjoy a fancy hot beverage for once (I like the Peach Tea Julep!).  I also love that this place doubles as a bar and has two of the most creative prosecco drinks I have ever tried (bonus)!  Bethany and I also really appreciate the location because it is smack in the middle of where we both live - since she is in Hilltop and I am in Lohi it is sometimes hard to find a spot that is convenient for both of us.

Guys, I have to tell you, I have been wearing this Kate Spade dress everywhere!  I have worn it to brunch with the flats here, and meetings with my favorite nude heels, and happy hour with these chunky lace up booties! It is so comfortable and easy to wear and I adore the girly details.  I have had a few questions about my planner - (also like this one) I use it daily and is a wonderful engagement or Mother's Day gift, I also like this Occasions and Contacts address book

Hope you enjoy your day and have a great rest of your week!!

xo

This post is in collaboration with Platform T. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! 

Weekend Necessities

Happy April!

Hope you have been enjoying some sunshine and spring weather where you are.  It has been a bit of a dreary week here.  Sun, snow, sun, snow, but we are promised a gorgeous weekend this weekend (fingers crossed!), very typical Colorado weather.  As a native, who loves a good powder day, I am still ready for sunshine and patio happy hours by April 1st.

Last week, before heading to the mountains, Jonny and I stopped by Pearl Wine Company because.... wine not!!? Sorry, that was terrible.  But really, we had to make sure we had the necessities in case we were snowed in all weekend long (right?).  

It is not every day that I am in inspired to post up and do a whole photo shoot while on our wine stop, but Pearl Wine Company was that adorable.  When we walked in, we were immediately greeted by owner Dustin who shared the sweet story of his store.  I love that he focuses on family owned wineries (a lot are local) and believes that every bottle has a story to tell.

I should point out that almost everything I am wearing is currently 40% off from Banana Republic!  I have really been loving their spring line, and at 5'3(ish) I really appreciate their petite section.  My embellished top (wearing xs petite), black ankle pant (wearing 2 petite). and new favorite gold pumps (also love these and these) are all 40 % off (use code: brspring).  

Have a wonderful first weekend of April! 

xo

Girl Talk

Happy FRIYAY, friends!!

Jonny and I have a lot of travel in front of us today.  First stop Tokyo then on to Bangkok... easily the longest flight(s) I have ever been on, and I know my anticipation and excitement to start our two week adventure is not going to make things go faster, whatsoever.  Apologies in advance if the blog is a little quiet while we are away - I am not exactly sure what our wifi situation is going to look like.

A few weeks ago I found out a dear friend of mine, Jourdan, was moving back to town.  She has been in LA for the past 3 years so I practically jumped out of my chair when she told me the news!... adding icing to the cake - she also just announced she is pregnant!! So of course, I was beyond thrilled when Jim Guttau, from the Four Seasons, asked if a friend and I would like to try out their signature February facial, "Becoming a Bond Girl" (um, why not ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿผ).  I knew exactly who I wanted to take!

There is literally diamond powder in the mask that made us feel absolutely glowy!  After our facials, Jourdan reminded me that pregnant girls get hangry!  It was (obviously) a very windy day so we decided to head to an adorable coffee shop that I have been loving

I love the streamlined look of a classic trench and the weight is perfect for those windy days :).  Both of our looks are from the adorable Stitch Boutique.  My trench is sold out online, but they still had a couple left last I checked (also love this onethis one, and this one!).  My jeans are Flying Monkey - I swear by this brand!  After wearing these bad boys it is hard to spend money on designer jeans ever again.  The fit is amazing and you can't beat the $68 price tag!  All of my sweet accessories are available at Stitch (bralett, Denver necklace, horn necklace) - or shop them and my favorite lightweight trenches below!

Have a wonderful weekend! Wish us luck on 25+ hours of travel ahead (yikes!).

xo

There's Always Time for Ice Cream

Happy Friday Friends!!

I hope you had a wonderful week and are looking forward to a nice long weekend with your Valentine or have fun plans with your besties!  As I mentioned, Jonny and I are relaxing at home this this weekend (we couldn't be more thrilled about it) and giving Charlie Brown extra love since we will be out of town for a few weeks.

Most of our friends will tell you, Jonny and I are not always the most prompt people.  We just aren't.  His friends used to say he was on JST - Jonny Standard Time... and I am sure my friends have a name for me too.  For us, being a little tardy is hereditary, something that was passed down from both our grandparents.  Which doesn't make it ok, but extreme timeliness was never practiced in either of our families... so has never been much of an issue in our relationship or bothered us.

Last week however, I noticed myself falling further and further behind due to over-scheduling and unable to really enjoy what I was doing because I was already thinking about or moving on to the next part of my day (15 to 20 minutes late of course).  One evening I missed a friends event and was already worried about how behind I knew I was going to be the next day.  That moment I realized I have to start saying no, and being realistic with my time in order to enjoy the moment.  Whether that means I skip a workout so Charlie gets a longer walk or I say no to something business related so Jonny and I can go on a date, or even taking time for myself for a little ice cream break.  These things are important people ๐Ÿฆ๐Ÿ˜‰!

I love this little gelato spot we found in Boulder, Fior di Latte.  I was instantly transported back to our trip to Italy a couple of years ago.  I also love this soft color combo from local Boulder boutique Willow.  This long sweater is so comfortable and is an easy neutral to throw on over anything - also love this one and this one (similar/and adorable/on sale!).  I can't get enough of these Clare V clutches.... they have a print for every outfit and mood, this one is available at Willow or similar online here.

Have a wonderful weekend!! Would love to hear what fun things you are up to this weekend!  Also, if you have any tips on slowing down and scheduling, I am all ears :).

xo


Blushing Valentines Date Out

You Guys!!!

The Broncos are Super Bowl Champions - woot woot!  There is such a great feeling in our big/little city right now!  Driving home last night every horn was honking and happiness was exuding from every home and car.  I can only imagine how much fun my dad and Jonny had at the game, but I am ready for them to hurry home now.  Jonny and I have so much to do before our big trip next week!

Jonny and I don't have big plans this Valentines Day, we are heading to SE Asia next week so that is really what we are focussing on (and incredibly excited about it!), but last week we were sure to spend a night out at one of our favorite restaurants, Mercantile Dining and Provision, relaxing and enjoying each others company, while also doing a little trip planning.  

As I shared with you here, Jonny and I love date nights at home.  However, when we do go out, we have a few go-to spots.  I often get emails about my favorite restaurants in Denver and I always have the same answers - thats because we are such creatures of habit.  When we have time to go out to eat we want to be sure it is going to be a place we love.  Our favorite spots are Mercantile (below), Linger (our anniversary spot), Postino (great happy hour), Root Down (more about it here), Highland Tap and Burger (yummiest burgers).

Denver is a pretty casual city, but I still like to make sure I look and feel extra special on date nights.   This Tory Burch look is the perfect outfit for a casual Valentines date night and is great transitioning into spring.  The blush tones are so feminine and I love the sweater and top separately... the blouse reminds me of a little ballerina, perfectly dainty.  Also, these shoes could not be more comfy - the structured/chunky heel ๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿผ- ahhhhhmazing! 

This Thursday, February 11th, join me for a fun night of champagne and shopping at Tory Burch in Cherry Creek,  I will be there from 6-8pm (pointing out my favorite things to Jonny!) bring your guy or girlfriends!  Look forward to seeing you there!

Shop the whole look below or at the store with me Thursday!

xo

PS - What do you have planned for Valentines Day?  Would love to hear your favorite date spots wherever you are!!



Valentines Date In

Happy February Friends,

I hope you had wonderful weekend!!  I loved this weekend.  My little sister was home again to rock out at the Soul Cycle Denver/Target pop up (more on that later this week!), there was sunshine, and snow (so typical Colorado) , and some great time with our sweet grandparents!  It was also really nice to be in our home and sit by the fire most of the day Sunday and play cards (I am lame, I know... I love gin rummy if you ever need an opponent).  

Jonny and I get the chance to do some fun things living in this beautiful state, and do our best to take advantage of them, but sometimes it is nice to enjoy being home.  That is why, whenever Jonny and I are celebrating anything extra special my first choice is to have a date night in.

Jonny is not usually much of a cook (although his apron would lead you to believe otherwise).  But pizza making was so interactive, fun, and easy for both of us!  Not to mention, delicious!  We also loved being able to pick our toppings.... Jonny is a big pepperoni guy and I love all the veggies my little pizza could handle.  

I love these pink glittery flutes that I got from Swoozies and I'm sure will use all month long.  I also love our tray from there (we got for our wedding) with all of the areas in Denver!  P.S. I know I am wearing this blouse again, but it just matched my apron so perfectly, I couldn't resist! 

What you need:

  • pizza dough (we used fresh dough from Whole Foods)
  • tomato sauce
  • toppings you love (mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, peppers, onions, pepperoni)

What we did:

  • preheat oven to 500
  • cover area you will be rolling dough with good amount of flour
  • cut dough in half
  • work dough in round(ish) shape
  • add sauce first then toppings
  • slide onto cookie sheet (I read that you shouldn't use one - ours turned out great!)
  • bake for 10 - 13 minutes (until puffy and browned)
  • enjoy!

What fun things do you have planned for Valentines Day?  I'll be sharing our favorite date night spot out soon!

ย 

Photography: Corey Anthony


 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving Friends!!!

Yesterday I got the opportunity to head up for a quick day of skiing with my dad.  It was such a beautiful day -  I cold not stop looking at the mountains around us and feeling grateful for time with my family.

Thanksgiving has become a favorite holiday of mine - the perfect time for reflection and thanks. Every day I try and step back and think about the things that I am thankful, grateful, excited, and happy for, but especially this time of year and especially this year.  Recently, have been spending extra time talking on the phone and enjoying the company of the ones I love and holding them a little tighter and just feeling grateful for this life that we live.

Last week Jonny and I hosted 30 of our nearest and dearest (actually 31 if you count our tiny newborn nephew) for the second annual Miller Friendsgiving.  It is always such a treat having our friends over for dinner, but sharing a cozy feast and and reflecting on the things that mean the most to one another made the evening even more special.

To prep for our party, my friends Nerida and Bethany and I learned how to make Thanksgiving inspired floral arrangements (here).  I also made a trip to one of my favorite shops (Swoozies) to pick up some fun decor - I love these napkins - and they usually have sweet and funny sayings for each holiday and different occasions (our napkin drawer is stocked with them :) ).  Also, this Friends Giving chalk board was a hit - cute and interactive!  I also love our banner - I wanted one that made sense to hang for the whole holiday season and "count your blessings" I think, rings true throughout! 

For bigger parties I think it is always easiest to make fun specialty cocktail that fits your theme.  We went with pomegranate punch - it was delicious and perfect for a large group (I used a drink dispenser like this one).

Here is what I did:

  • Fill dispenser half way with ice
  • Pour 8 Pomegranate Izze's 
  • Pour 3/4 gallon ginger ale
  • Pour 4 cups Pomegranate/Blueberry juice (I used Tropicana)
  • mix together
  • slice 4 oranges to lay inside drink dispenser (do not mix)
  • seed 1 pomegranate and place on top (do not mix)

Have the happiest Thanksgiving!! Eat something delicious and enjoy every minute.

xo