Orange Crush

Hi Friends - Happy Friday!

I always love this time of year in Colorado.  The weather is as close to perfect as it can get and growing up, Zoe's birthday and Father's day were almost always on the same weekend so it was a nice time to catch up with our whole family.  This has been a hard week with all that is going on in the world, so I am very much looking forward to spending extra time with my family this weekend.

I shared this skirt recently along with some of my favorite places in Denver for a LiketoKnow.it takeover - Denver edition.  A few other Denver gals and myself, got to takeover their Instagram account and show everyone around our city, which was so fun!  My first stop was Union Station because I love how it's revamp has changed the landscape of Denver.  The restaurants are yummy, and they always have something fun going on.  I visited the new farmers market for the first time last weekend and am sure I will be a regular there on Saturday mornings.

So guys, I am typically a pink girl, but orange and yellow have been taking up more space in my closet this season.  When I saw this skirt, I tried it on in white as well, since I was torn, I asked Jonny for his opinion... clearly he went with his favorite color (all Broncos all the time in this house) and I am so glad!  The vibrant color is great for summer and the midi length was perfect.  I am (almost) 5'3 and wearing a 2 for sizing purposes :).  Also, I have to tell you, lately, Banana Republic has been my go-to for shoes (get mine here).  They have a great selection, quality, and always affordable.  Shop the rest of my look below.

It was so fun shooting this look with EmilyAnne, the first photographer that I ever worked with for Denver Darling.  She is a great photographer, and one of the sweetest souls around.

I have been loving all of your questions.  Keep them coming :).  Hope you have some fun things planned for the weekend - can't wait to hear about them!

 

 

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

 

 

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! 

Skirt Season in The Rockies

GOOD MORNING, FRIENDS!

I hope you had a wonderful weekend.  We were snowed in here.... yes, again!  Jonny was at a bachelor party enjoying plenty of sunshine and beach time, while we accumulated around 2 ft. of snow here.  I didn't want to get stuck in the house alone all weekend so invited my friends over for a fun girls weekend full of rom coms, sushi, and mimosas. It was lovely! 

DSC00666_2016.jpg

The weather here changes in an instant, one second its 80 and sunny (this was last week before the snow storm btw) and the next we are bundled up in our mid winter warmest again.  I can't wait for consistent skirt weather - I am ready to put away the tights for a while.

I love this skirt from J.McLaughlin, a store I first spotted from way down the street when I was visiting family in Chicago and knew it was going to be a lasting relationship.  The bright colors and fun patterns were an instant draw for me!  Clearly, I was elated when I found out they were opening a store near me in Cherry Creek (2703 E 3rd Ave).  Local friends, I have already been by a few times and just the store front is adorable.  This shirt is probably the most comfortable button up I have ever worn (got it in white too!).  I love a classic white jean jacket for layering - it is the perfect staple for spring and summer.  

I wore this to a casual day at work last week then to meet Jonny for date night before he left for the airport.  I really appreciate the wearability of J.McLaghlin's pieces.  For sizing, I would suggest sizing down.  I typically wear 0-2 in skirts and xs-s in tops and wear 0 and xs in their pieces.

More snow headed our way today, guys... send us some sunny thoughts! 

xo

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! 

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

Easter Traditions

HI FRIENDS,

I hope you had a great Easter weekend filled with lots of love, Peeps, and (if your me) popcorn flavored Jelly Belly beans... yummmm.  

 

It's funny, I have always loved Easter - everything about the holiday.  I loved the smell of lilies that would fill our house all season long (they are my moms favorite too).  As a child, I loved waking up early with my sisters and hunting for our Easter baskets for about an hour, before we would finally give up (while my dad sat doubled over laughing so hard he would cry at how well he had hidden them from us... he's really a giant kid).  I loved getting together with our neighbors and old friends that would finally seem to emerge from hibernation at this first sight of spring.  I loved going to grandmas house for a yummy and overly indulgent brunch... and I especially loved picking out Easter dresses with my mom - the poofiest, bowiest, pinkest one I could find (you would have never guessed, right?).

As we get older, obviously all of the little things that I loved about Easter aren't as important (as I sit here staring at four wilting lilies).  I get a little sentimental thinking about my childhood, but I can't help but get excited about the unique traditions Jonny and I are creating together.  Our families were spread out across the country over the holiday so Jonny and I spent it cozied up in our cabin and enjoying the incredible spring skiing conditions we are having in Colorado.  With that came a mountain top Easter church service and a beautiful spring day on the mountain that will become a fun tradition of our own.

Before making the quick trip to the mountains we stopped by one of our favorite restaurants, North, in Cherry Creek for a quick bite.  Right around the corner is long time local jewelry store, John Atencio (actually where my mom and sisters bridal jewelry are from),  I love their beautiful, and updated styles like I am wearing.  The gorgeous Rubellite, from his Signature Collection is an amazing alternative to your standard engagement ring.  Since I have my set already, I like it as a right hand ring and I love that it is more pink than your standard ruby.

I absolutely love this dress (it comes in regular and petite, I am wearing a 2p)! The bell sleeves make it so fun, and the lace is always classic.  I actually wore it to meetings all day with my favorite nude pumps (these) and changed into these metallic pumps (currently 40% off with code brspring) to dress up a little bit for the evening.  

Have a wonderful rest of your week!  Feel free to email me or comment with any questions - I love hearing what is going on with you and what you want to read more about.

xo

 

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

 

 

Twinning with Bmble Baby

HI FRIENDS,

I hope you had a lovely weekend and start to your week!  It's been stunning here in the Mile High City!  I think Jonny and I have finally kicked our jet lag since returning from our trip.  I have only heard tales of the dreaded multi day jet lag, but had never experienced it for myself... holy moly, guys, I was pretty much a walking zombie for 5 days and not someone you would want to approach without warning.   This weekend we were feeling a lot more like ourselves and were able to enjoy the beautiful early spring weather that Colorado was treating us to.  Big time bonus, Zoe's (meet her here and here) sweet boyfriend surprised her (and us) and flew her home for the weekend so we all got to catch up and enjoy it together. 

Charlie Brown and I were asked to participate in one of my favorite and easily cutest photo shoots to date!  My beautiful friend Caitlyn recently launched her company Bmble Baby with her sister in law, Heather.  They started with baby footwear and have just added adorable mommy and baby matching apparel.  Although Jonny and I don't have a (human) baby, I always love sharing things that I love with you and I these little mocs have been a go to baby gift for all of the babies in our life.  Jonny and I got our new niece and nephew these (which Heather hand paints herself).  I think they are such a sweet gift, and you know how I love a good personalized gift?!  On top of their adorable mocs ($25-$39), they just started selling matching mom and baby (and pup) apparel.  

I loved spending the afternoon with some of my very favorite ladies and sweet little ones.  My sister in law, Erin, and handsome nephew, Harrison, wore the white Mama/Mini graphic tee and onesies which I think is so sweet.  And my friend, Nerida and owner Caitlyn and their little cuties, Pippa and Lochryn (best baby names in one photo shoot... am I right?!) wore the I'm Not Working Today/ Me Neither graphic tees and onesies - I can't get over how cute they look together.  Contact Bmble Baby to order a Twinning tee for your pup or like I am wearing.... I can imagine our matching set will be the perfect outfit for Charlie's upcoming big 10th birthday party next month (I know, I am in disbelief too.... and #crazydoglady!).  Also, my black, distressed jeans are currently 40% off for $33 - I wear them with everything!

Shop tee's, onesies, and baby mocs at Bmble Baby and the rest of my look (including makeup I wear everyday) below!

Have a wonderful week!

xo


Hello From the Other Side

OMG - HIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!

I have missed you guys!  So sorry for my longer than planned absence from the blog.  I was worried while we were preparing for our trip that posting from half way around the world would be difficult... doable, but difficult, but it proved to be more like impossible to find wifi that was compatible with my site.  At first it was nerve-wracking, and a little frustrating, but I am now so thankful for the break that forced me to completely unplug and allowed me to focus fully on spending time with Jonny and soaking in memories from such a life-changing trip.  I can't wait to share more from our adventure with you all!! Currently compiling all of our pictures and will be posting all of the details from SE Asian travels soon!

Photography // Corey Anothony

Full disclosure, this was probably not appropriate attire for playing tug of war with Mr. Brown on a windy day, but I just can't say no to him - especially after being away for so long.  As much fun as Jonny and I have traveling, it is so hard for us to be away from Charlie Brown for extended periods of time (can you blame us?!).  I heard foot steps one night during our trip and woke up in a panic thinking it was Charlie (#crazydoglady).

I love the color of my dress from Stitch Boutique.  Stitch is an adorable store located just up the road from me, that my friend, Jourdan (here), recently introduced me to - can't thank her enough!  The exact color of my dress is only available in stores, but in white here, and very similar here.   This faux leather jacket is so comfy and ideal for spring evenings (also a steal $92).  I think horn pendants like this one or this one are so fun and unique and add a touch of edge to a clean and colorful outfit.  Also... you can find Mr. Brown and me in floral sunnies like these ($11) for the foreseeable future 👓.

I have linked all outfit details and some additional, similar favorites below! 

Hope you have been great!! Let me know if you have any questions or comments or something you would like me to discuss!  Have a wonderful Tuesday!

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 🙋🏼).  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 one, this 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 🍦😉!

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 🙌🏼- 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!!



X's & O's in Boulder

Growing up, we spent many weekends as a family in Boulder.  My parents, and grandparents were CU Buffs so some of my earliest memories are making the short drive from Golden to beautiful Boulder to see Ralfie run the field at football games.

My friends and I used to make the drive from Denver all of the time to bother Zoe (and crash her parties) right after we graduated from college (I strayed from the CU legacy), but I realized Jonny and I don't get up there nearly enough!  Last week I thought it would be fun to take a little day trip to Boulder to visit my cousin.  It brought back such fun memories of summer lunches on Pear St. and fall football games, that I know Jonny and I will be adding it to our list of quick getaways from now on. 

We walked around and stopped in a few adorable spots including Willow, a seriously gorgeous boutique a few blocks from the middle of town! The clothes were gorgeous and the stylists were so helpful and had such a creative eye.  The structure of this jacket is ahhh-mazing (also love this one).  And I made a bee-line for this orange floral top (maybe because I have Broncos on the brain or I am ready for spring... or both!).  The same beautiful print also comes in a dress and skirt 🙊🤗😍.  I also love these DL jeans - they are so comfortable and just the perfect amount of distressed.

What are your favorite day trips or weekend getaways?  Jonny and I love visiting new places!  Shop my whole look at Willow (mention Denver Darling when you stop in or by phone and get 20% off one item!) or shop below!

xo