Best Gifts for Your Engaged Besties this Season and Minted Giveaway

In honor of my dear friend, Molly's, engagement, I am so excited to share a gift guide to celebrate the newly engaged couples in our life!  Starting today, I will be sharing (at least) weekly, gift guides to help us all get ready for the holidays.  We all know that I am not the best at planning, however, I do like to shop... so I am trying to knock out some of my shopping early this year and spread it out over the next 7 weeks so I am not scrambling on Christmas Eve (it has happened... it might still, but #goals).

Speaking of planning... This may not be a big deal for some, but huge achievement over here - I have already ordered our Holiday Cards! I have teamed up with Minted to give away $125 in credit towards holiday cards to two Denver Darling readers so you can be a head of the game too (wooo hooo!). You can sign up HERE! Winners will randomly be selected one week from today. Good luck!

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  1. Mr. and Mrs. Balloons $48
  2. Jewelry Tray $19.99
  3. Bling Brush $18
  4. Wedding Planner $48
  5. "Cheers" Champagne Flutes $58
  6. Monogrammed Satchel $120
  7. Plaid Luggage Tag $49
  8. Hammered Moscow Mule Mugs $85
  9. Yorkshire Check Scarf $45
  10. If there were a 10 it would be this (oops!)
  11. Plaid Ground Cover $89
  12. Carry On Spinner $279

My friend Molly and her new fiance love to travel, so (spoiler alert Molls) I am planning on getting them something that they can use on their future adventures together.  I have had my eye on this suit case forever, and I also love these luggage tags as a sweet personalized gesture.  I always love giving champagne flutes as an engagement gift.  You know there will be endless celebrations in the coming months and champagne flutes like these or these are a must!

Also, the first gift that I received when Jonny and I were engaged was ring cleaner (like this) from my sister in law... she gives the best gifts! It was something that I used every day to keep my new ring clean and sparkly! Finally, new brides are so eager to start planning - a helpful wedding planner like this one, this one, or this one (which can be personalized, which I love!) is always a welcomed gift to help take notes, jot down ideas and keep things organized.

I hope you have are having a wonderful weekend and be sure to put your name in for the $125 giveaway with Minted! (Shop everything by clicking on the links above or scrolling the gallery below).

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

These Boots are Made for Walking through Fall

Hi Friends, Happy Thursday!

Hope you are enjoying this beautiful week!  As I mentioned yesterday, we are having a serious Indian Summer over here and I am not complaining one bit.

I have heard mumblings from people that they can't wait for the cold and sleet and the snow and hot cocoa.  All I can think is "hold your horses people!" there will be plenty I promise.  Enjoy the sunshine!  That being said, yesterday I spent the day working outside, the sunshine on my face, Stanley at my feet and drinking endless amounts of lemonade from one of my favorite pup friendly neighborhood spots (Postino).  And I will hopefully be doing the same thing today and tomorrow.

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Last weekend lovely Lacey from My Boring Closet and I got together to share our favorite boots of the season!  We met up in the sweet Wash Park neighborhood of Gaylord and had a blast sampling goodies from Devils Food Bakery and peeking in the adorable boutiques!

I have been getting a lot of questions from you about picking the right boot.  I know the process can seem kind of scary because boots used to be such an investment.  But there are so many great options right now at wonderful price points! 

I mentioned here - that I have had these for two seasons now! They are my favorite boot.  And yes, I do wear them with black!  I have also had my eye on these Tory Burch boots for a while and they are currently a part of the ShopBop Surprise Sale (today is the last day!).  I also just purchased my first pair of over the knee boots (big deal you guys - I have short legs!!).  I am really excited about these because they aren't too high/tight, and have a nice heel height - pretty much the Goldilocks of boots! Oh and 40% right now - bonus! 

I love Lacey's whole look.  So perfect for fall and any upcoming Thanksgiving festivities! Her boots are a steal ($77!) and come in three other colors! I am thinking about the burgundy (you know how I feel about burgundy!).  I also love these - both have the tie at the top which makes the over the knee not as scary as they once were to me.  I will share my new pair with you soon!

I can't wait to see your favorite boots.  Have you tried over the knee boots? Maybe I have just been a chicken.  Have a great day!

xo

 

 

 

Burgundy Fall

Morning Friends!

Hope you had a wonderful Halloween weekend!!  I can't believe that here we are - the beginning of November and it still feels like late summer.  One thing I love about Colorado is that we have four true seasons.  Sometimes in the dead of winter I wish Jonny and I lived in California or Arizona where the weather is always mild, but then I remember we would never get days like these!

Last week, I took Stanley on a stroll and the leaves seemed to be at their peak.   Just a few days later he has almost doubled in size and  these beautiful leaves are almost gone.  Looking through these photos I got a little sad remembering a gorgeous fall day last year with Mr. Brown, so I am reminded to savor every minute of our changing Colorado seasons.

Since it has been unseasonably warm layering has not really been necessary just yet.  I have been loving these lightweight turlenecks from Madewell.  I liked this one so much I also bought it in black and blue and am planning on getting blush and red for the Holidays since they are currently on sale ($29.95).  Burgundy has been my very favorite color to wear this fall and I am sure will continue through the holidays and the new year - I was so excited when I spotted these Hunters in my new favorite color.  If it were chilly enough for a jacket, I would have worn this faux leather jacket ($32)! 

Have a great day!

xo

 

  

 

Pumpkin Pickin

Happy Wednesday Friends,

I hope you are having a wonderful week...  if you are here in CO, seriously, can you believe this weather?  And if you are not, hope it is just as beautiful where you are!!

Jonny and I spent the better part of this past weekend enjoying the sunshine and our new puppy, Stanley.  He is an absolute riot and super smart... I sound like such a crazy dog lady, but I am convinced he is a puppy angel sent by Charlie Brown (why not, right?).  

It is rare that we have a free day that neither Jonny or I have work, a birthday, wedding, or other beautiful commitment so we decided to take a little daycation to Boulder and stop at the Cottonwood Farms Pumpkin Patch along the way.  We searched all over for a place that would also allow Stanley and it seems this is the only pumpkin patch that is also dog friendly.  Well, we were so glad we stopped here because it was incredibly charming.  Entry is free, wagons provided for your pumpkin picking pleasure, and possibly the highlight for me.... they have a mini horse!! One day I am going to get one and my poor husband is just going to come home to a small zoo in our townhouse.  

Jonny and I were so excited enjoy the beautiful fall day at the pumpkin patch.  And, my flannel that I just snagged from Madewell is super comfy! Definitely cozy, so will be perfect for chillier temperatures later this fall and winter.  I love how versatile this skirt is too - I have also worn it with a white tee and booties and will be great with black tights and boots in cooler temps too!  My boots and purse are both tried and true favorites.  Jonny actually got me both for Christmas two years ago and they have stayed in such wonderful condition!  Shop all outfit details below.

Would love to hear your favorite pumpkin picking spots!  Hope you have a wonderful rest of your week!

Colorful Colorado

Happy Friday, Friends!

I hope you have had a beautiful week.  It has been ggggg-orgeous here and we have just been eating it up! 

Last weekend Jonny and I headed to Vail to celebrate our anniversary.  We are both Colorado natives, but the beauty of peek leaf season in the mountains still amazes both of us.  We thought that this may have been the prettiest season we have ever seen, but I now realize, it is just that the beauty of seeing the colors transition will never get old and always seems more beautiful than the last.  That being said, there are probably only a few more days so if you are in CO you need to get up there!

We stayed at The Sebastian, which is where our wedding reception was held and going back always brings back such wonderful memories.  We hiked Booth Falls, the trail head is just outside of Vail Village so it is quite popular, but it didn't bother us one bit.  We also strolled through my favorite farmers market which ends this weekend, so if you have been hoping to do some leaf peeping and visit the farmers market this is would be the perfect time.   

I had quite a few questions about our matching fleeces... Jonny and I actually received them as a wedding gift and we both love them! They are so cozy and great for cool fall days and very cozy after skiing (also like this for him and this for her).  My vest is one of my favorite things to wear for hikes, sunny ski days, and after yoga.  Also, I pretty much live in these leggings - I love the high waist, so they don't slip down when I am running or hiking.

Hopefully this weekend is as beautiful as the last! Would love to hear your plans and favorite weekend getaways.

xo

 

 

 

This sweet life

Hi Friends,

Hope you have had a beautiful week!  For me, this week has been so special and nothing less than inspiring.  Tuesday was Jonny and my anniversary so started out on a lovely note.  I have to admit, we didn't have a typical fancy date night and we were both more than ok with that - we went car shopping and hung pictures, but it was a perfect night for us and a great way to start our week.  

Yesterday, I attended the Women's Foundation Luncheon - the Foundation raises money so that every girl and woman in Colorado can achieve her full potential.  I loved sitting amidst 2,300 women supporting other women in Colorado.   The highlight was seeing Misty Copeland share her inspiring story of becoming a principal ballerina.  She was so incredibly humble and poised.  I have never wanted to be a ballerina so badly - haha!  One can dream, right?  

Following the event I sat at a table to enjoy the beautiful weather and work outside and saw a young man sprint and yell after a man in military attire.  I thought he had forgotten his wallet or something, when the young man yelled "Sir" and as the man turned around he stood there and saluted him in the middle of the restaurant with the proudest look on his face, then turned around and walked back to the table with his young friends and continued eating his ice cream.  It was one of the most touching things that I have ever seen.

I am headed to another event for a wonderful cause tonight. The Mode fashion event benefitting Denver Health.  I feel so lucky and proud to live in a wonderful place that supports and cares about the community.  If you are interested in going, you can get ticket information here.

I just snagged this dress from Loft (30% off with code shopsmart) when I was in a pinch for some new work dresses last week.  It is perfect for a luncheon with navy heels (like these) or a casual day at work with tan lace up booties (like mine).  I actually wore this look to work then to meet some friends for happy hour.  The weight is great for this early fall weather and will be perfect with tights and boots once snow starts falling.  And this Sole Society clutch is my favorite for fall and an absolute steal ($39.95).

Jonny and I are hoping to get to the mountains this weekend to see the fall colors!  What fun plans do you have?

xo

Slowing Down Summer in Montana

Happy Friday, Friends!

Life has kind of gotten away from us since we got back from Montana.  Our quick trip to Montana the week before last was only a long weekend, but it was so relaxing with little distractions and time didn't seem to speed by as it has lately.

Jonny and I have both been busy with work and sometimes he has to work until the wee hours of the morning so this trip was some welcomed quality time.  Most people called us crazy for driving to Montana for just a four day day trip (drive time included), but we had such an amazing time.  And enjoyed every minute of the beautiful drive through the Tetons, a night in Jackson, and the windy roads and sights of Yellowstone National Park.  Jonny had never been to Yellowstone and I hadn't visited since I was very little so we broke the drive up with a stay in Jackson and a hike in the Tetons (that was beyond stunning!).

As we entered Big Sky, Jonny and I were already in awe of the beautiful scenery - we have always been partial to CO and our mountains, but Montana's are pretty spectacular.  We were greeted with open arms at The Yellowstone Collective Retreat at Moonlight Basin (literally a big bear hug from CEO Peter!) and had an absolutely unforgettable weekend.

We were completely unplugged all weekend which I am realizing it is such an important thing to do to step back and focus on what is really important.  This is my second time "camping" - yes it is very much glamping (more on that in my next post) but because of my last few stays at Collective Retreats (also here) unplugging from the world and being outdoors is really growing on me.

I can't wait to show you more from our trip - I have about a bazillion more photos to share with you.  It was just so beautiful and I am just in love with the experiences we have had at Collective Retreats.  It has been so nice reminiscing about our trip this morning and taking a second to slow back down before the busy weekend ahead.

However, now we get back to the hustle and bustle of Friday - Jonny and I are going to Urban Nights tonight, a fashion show that supports homeless youth in Denver.  We had a blast last year and I believe there are still tickets left.  We hope to see you there!

Also, this is Jonny's new favorite shirt.  It is from Ball and Buck, a Boston based mens store that is doing a pop-up in Cherry Creek through Labor Day.  He loves the cut of the shirt and I love all of the fun designs they carry!  As we transition into fall, I am loving long sleeves tops and sweaters like this one with distressed shorts ($46) - just the perfect combo on a crisp late summer evening. I hope you have a wonderful day and weekend, friends!  

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

NSale Beauty picks

Hi Friends!

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is now open to the public - yipee!! As I mentioned last week, this sale is one of the best of the year and a chance to get a peek at fall pieces at great prices.

I rarely talk about beauty products because my makeup routine is pretty simple (and boring honestly).  But the makeup that I wear, I love and buy over and over again and I always stock up on this time of year.  

Even at 29, I still think in terms of school years (the new fall season). Although makeup is not typically a priority, I always love stocking up on fresh new palettes like this one, this one and this one which are pretty much all you need!  And a fresh new scent and an oldie but goodie every year.  I love this perfume by Tory Burch and I have worn Daisy by Marc Jacobs since my wedding (almost two years ago).

I have been a Bobbi Brown girl since I learned what makeup was.  I love Bobbi's (I pretend like I actually know her) natural and effortless style.  On a typical day I wear this moisturizer with SPF ($46), this blush ($28), this mascara ($28), a little of this bronzer ($46), and lip gloss ($26).  These anniversary sale sets offer beautiful combinations with the makeup that I usually wear, but also throw in some fun new colors that I wouldn't think to use on a daily basis. I love that this set has everything you need for a great smokey eye - Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye mascara is my second favorite after Bobbi Brown Extreme Party (I like that it can be layered on and wont clump).

Have a fantastic week friends and let me know what else you would like me to cover!  The sale lasts until August 7th.

xo

 

 

Favorite Fall Dresses - Anniversary Sale

Hi Friends,

I don't usually like to think about summer ending or fall clothing until the last possible moment - it really bums me out.... except during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.  It is Nordstrom's biggest sale of the year and they preview all of their incoming fall items at big discounted prices (and make the inevitability of fall coming just around the corner not so bad).

The early access sale is in full swing and is available to Nordstrom Card holders for two more days.  After the 21st the anniversary sale will be available to everyone through August 7th.

I love that all of these dresses are easy transition pieces and won't be forgotten about in the closest from now until fall.  This blush dress is under $25 and comes in 10 colors - I plan on wearing it with sandals now and booties, then tights boots and a jacket into the fall (such an easy piece!).  This cold shoulder shift is adorable, comfy, and really flattering (under $30).  

This is also the time that I stock up on work dresses.  This fuscia bow dress is perfect for meetings, or tea with the girls - there are only a few sizes left (under $100).  And although I am typically more drawn to color in my wardrobe, even I can't deny a classic LBD.  This little black dress is great for going for from meetings to date night or a cocktail party (under $100).

I will be sharing a few more roundups over throughout the sale, let me know if there is something you have your eye one and would like me to cover.

(to shop, click the picture of the dress above or below).

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

Wedding Season Brights

Happy Wednesday, Friends!

Apologies for the lack of posts lately, guys - the last few weeks have been a roller coaster of emotions and some days all I can think to type is "%$&@!". I can imagine that would not be very interesting, so I have just been quiet when I need to.  Some days are easier than others and our home is a little quieter, which is hard, but I have started a new routine which has helped.  So thank you, friends, for your support while I get through this - you've been amazing!

I don't know about you guys, but this wedding season has been a busy one for us - wooh!  We just returned from Michigan via Chicago and are headed right back to Chicago (on the same exact flights, actually) this weekend to celebrate another wonderful couple.  Luckily we love weddings!

Although its a busy time, Jonny and I agreed early on in our relationship that we would attend as many of our friends weddings as we possibly could.  It is such an honor to be able to share in a couples special day.  It's also such a fun time to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones from all over.

I also love wedding season because it means that bright dresses will be out in full force.  I love this dress that I wore to our friends wedding last weekend.  The midi length is perfect for dancing and the peek-a-boo hem, low back, and cut out in the middle make it a little more flirty than your average midi dress.  Stock is low in these, but they still have some sizes available (I am wearing a small).  I also like this one, this one, and this one for an outdoor affair.

I have been wearing these shoes everywhere and they are a steel under $20! I also get a lot of questions about my clutch - I actually, often use it as a wallet and toss it in my tote and grab it easily when I need something less bulky.

Do you have any must sees/dos for us in Chicago? We are excited to have a few days to explore! Have a great rest of your week.

xo