Mississippi Mud Pie

Win a $50 Gift Certificate to my Etsy shop!

2011-11-13T06:47:00.001-08:00

Do you know someone who might enjoy sporting an infinity scarf cowl neck warmer?

Handknit infinity scarf cowls - $40.

Or a Bohemian Wrapsody Layer Necklace?

Available here - $45.

Perhaps you know a couple of girly-girls who like fun & flirty jewelry?

Crochet ribbon necklaces - $20 each, available here.

Or someone who likes a little simple sophistication?

Pendulum Pendant Earrings - $22 each, available here.

Or unique, one of a kind statement pieces?

Crochet cuff & earring set $50 here.

As Thanksgiving is right about the corner it is time to start thinking about Christmas gifts. Wouldn't it be nice if you could go ahead and cross a few folks off your list ... and do so for FREE??!!

First, become a fan of my Mississippi Mud facebook page and find out how you can win a $50 gift certificate to my store (details below!)! Contest ends December 6th - giving you plenty of time to pick out your purchase!

*** Contest Details ***

5 ENTRIES

Post a photo of you wearing something Mississippi Mud to my facebook page!

Make sure you tag Mississippi Mud (using the @ symbol to tag me) in the photo,

and make sure your photo is public so everyone can see!

1 - ??? ENTRIES

Suggest Mississippi Mud on facebook to your friends.

Each new fan sent by you is 1 entry!

Make sure they comment on the page letting me know who sent them!

1 ENTRY

Share my Mississippi Mud facebook page on your wall for 1 entry.

2 ENTRIES

Link my Etsy shop on your facebook wall and tag Mississippi Mud on Facebook in the post. (using the @ symbol - this way I can keep track and give you credit)

2 BONUS ENTRIES

Tweet about the giveaway and link to this blog post!

Make sure you mention @MississippiMud in the tweet so I can give you credit!

The winner will be announced and notified Tuesday, December 6th!

Thrifty Finds Under $20

2011-11-08T11:17:00.000-08:00

I haven't been thrifting in a while because truth be told, my last garage sale was chock full of some of my "thrifty finds"! I am no longer allowing myself to buy dishes or glasses, no matter how cute I think they are!

Anyways, I have been stopping by every once in a while to try and find some maternity clothes and this trip I was specifically looking for a coat or wool sweater that I could wear during my pregnancy this winter.

And man oh man did I score!

1. Hardback Children's Books

Raggedy Anne & Andy books, along with 2 other classics.

So what that the two belonged to H. Shipp?!

2. What to Expect When You're Expecting &

What to Expect During Baby's First Year

Although I've gotten most of my information online,

I decided to go ahead and buy these two books.

3. A NICE vintage wool coat,

with what may or may not be a real fur collar.

AND it actually fits my pregnancy belly with a little room to go!

4. Super Cute Baby Shoes

They were new in the box and I couldn't pass them up!

5. Porcelain Owl "Piggy" Bank

Spray painted white I think it will be nursery chic!

The best part??!

And all of this was under $20!

Have you had any fun thrifty finds lately?

What to Wear to Holiday Parties

2011-11-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Have you started dreaming about Christmas parties like I have?

Well I put together a few fun, flirty and non-traditional looks using my jewelry paired with dresses & shoes from Modcloth.

(And no, I'm not paid or sponsored by them!)

As you can see I like to step away from the everyday little black dress and funk things up a bit. It's the holidays, time to be festive and have a little fun :-)

All accessories available at http://MississippiMud.etsy.com - all clothing and shoes available at http://modcloth.com

DIY Anthropologie Sweaterknit Strand

2011-11-04T05:29:00.000-07:00

I love to peruse Anthropologie's accessories online. They always have a great collection of eclectic designs and I usually find something that piques my interest. Recently it was the Sweaterknit Strand by Cheung Lik.

Sweaterknit Strand $198 at Anthropologie

Because of my fiber background, I tend to be drawn to the fiber arts and as soon as I saw this necklace my wheels were turning. Basically Cheung knit a tube using different yarns, and accented it with chains. I'm a big fan of the material contrast here.

While I opted away from the chains, I went through my massive yarn collection and pulled together some yarns I paired a chunky baby alpaca yarn with, and accented with a hand-dyed silk & mohair blend yarn, another variegated yarn and a sequence yarn for a little "bling". Like all my designs, it's easy to wear - with a t-shirt, a long sleeved pullover, a v-neck sweater, a button down. But it adds that little bit of "punch" to any outfit that shows your style.

Sweater Circle Fiber Necklace $42 from Mississippi Mud.

To make your own, I suggest using a chunky weight yarn with corresponding needles. I used a yarn gauge of 12 sts = 4" and used a US 11 needle. I cast on 7-9 sts (I can't remember right now!) and knit an i-cord. Too many stitches and your i-cord won't close up properly. Too few stitches and you might night get the "plumpness" you want. Using too light of a yarn will cause the same dilemma. You could always knit a rectangle and seam it shut - but I prefer to avoid seaming and piecing together whenever possible.

Have fun!

You can find this necklace available in my shop here!

It's been a while ...

2011-11-03T06:59:00.001-07:00

I sort of lost my blogging mojo for a while there.

Because ... I've been busy growing a baby!

And it's a girl!

Here's the binker bean at a mere 15 weeks.

Look at her little legs and arm!

And here's me at 25 weeks.

I've also been busy knitting baby sweaters,

Working on Baby Girl's room,

Here's a sneak peak of a bookshelf turned into closet

There will be more about my nursery DIY's to come!

And of course still crafting away for my little etsy shop!

earrings here

infinity scarves and cowls here

But here's my latest crafty creation.

DIY Closet/Clothes dividers for baby clothes!

After seeing several DIY's on Pinterest I wanted to make my own.

These are a gift, but I will be making the exact same ones for my baby girl.

I added the ribbon because not everyone has a removable bar in their closet.

This way they can either slide the divider in place, or tie it on!

I'll take ANYTHING to help try and keep me organized as a new mom to be!

Here's what you need:

4 wooden letters

Or more depending on how many dividers.

I found the best deal at Hobby Lobby.

Sold in a 2-pack for 99 cents.

Paint (acrylic or spray paint)

Glue

1 sheet of scrap book paper

Or any paper really!

Exacto Knife

Sand Paper

Number stickers

Mod Podge & brush

Use the real deal or make your own like I did.

3 parts glue, 1 part water (or more depending on desired thickness.)

Ribbon

I simply made a loop and pulled the ends though for tying into place.

Step 1. Paint one side of the wooden O's. I used Krylon spray paint and gave it a few coats. Make sure you get the sides too!

Step 2: Apply glue directly to the non-painted side of the wooden O, and lay them onto the sheet of scrapbook paper. Flip the sheet over, and rub the paper so that it has adhered to all parts of the O smoothly.

Step 3. After the paper has had time to adhere to the wood, flip the paper back over so the paper is on the bottom. Be sure and put a cutting mat or cardboard underneath, then use an Exacto Knife to cut the O's from the paper.

Step 4: I sanded the edges of my O's and thought it made the paper "blend" in a little better. You can also sand any rough edges.

Step 5: Apply the number stickers.

Step 6: Mod Podge over the paper and wait to dry! (you could do both sides if desired)

Step 7: Cut ribbon and loop around the O's. Your closet dividers are ready to give as a gift or to keep! I will not actually use the ribbon for mine because I can slide them onto my closet bar. But it's safe to go ahead and include the ribbon if they're a gift just in case!

Here's the DIY I based mine off of, but made a few changes and cut out a few steps!
Check out more DIYs and fun ideas over at Tatertots & Jello's weekend wrap-up party.

Who is Better World Books?

2011-05-26T12:16:00.001-07:00

I'm always gonna give a shout out to my bro (Kreece) ... so take a look!

Who is Better World Books? from Better World Books on Vimeo.

Road Trip to Charlotte: Part 1

2011-05-25T07:12:00.000-07:00

Hit the road,

Ride in style.

Colorful flowers

Stretch the miles.

Getting close

Destination near,

Walk in the door,

"Auntie Sarah's here!"

Clothing Refashion Ideas & Tutorials

2011-05-19T04:40:00.000-07:00

There are LOTS of ideas and tutorials out in bloggyland on how to refashion your clothes. Take a cardigan and give it new buttons. Find a sweater and sew on a ruffle. Try adding a little lace or trim to any top.

You just need a creative eye, needle & thread and you'll be on your way to refashioning.

While you can scour your closet or pick up a basic top anywhere, I prefer to shop at the thrift store where you can find well made pieces and high quality fabrics for a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere.

I happened upon a stash of vintage trimming from my husband's grandmother, and had another stash stored away from my dad's aunt - who was an excellent seamstress and crocheter in her day. But you could head to your local craft store and pick up several yards of trim, lace, ribbon & buttons.

Since this is my first batch of refashioned clothing, I decided to keep it simple. I added a small embellishment to each top: a little lace on the edge, crochet flower on the shoulder, and ribbon trimming on the seams and necklines.

I was very happy with the results and am ready to take on more! Lately I rarely shop at any retail shop other than my local thrift shops. I much prefer to do my own thing anyways.

Have you refashioned lately?

100% silk shift top with vintage lace trim.

Vintage tunic vest w/vintage paisley trim.

100% vintage silk blouse with vintage crochet flowers.

Pink & Blue reversible 100% silk top with vintage trim.

100% (I hate to admit ... rayon) with lace trim.

And my personal favorite.

100% silk top with vintage trim.

Check out these tutorials:

tutorial & source

To market, to market ...

2011-05-16T09:51:00.000-07:00

At the last minute I decided to do Market again this year.

Last year was successful for me and I decided there was no reason

not to do it again this year. So this past Saturday morning I made my way

Uptown and set up my booth to begin another season.

My favorite part of market is people watching, meeting new people,

and getting direct feedback about my designs.

And watching people walk by with GORGEOUS fresh cut flower arrangements. I will definitely be purchasing some for myself next week!

I also finally met two blogger friends: April & Amy. Their kiddos were just as cute as I thought they would be! Thanks for stopping by ladies - even if it was briefly!

While I did sell a few crochet ribbon necklaces, the most popular items were

my $10 twisted hoop earrings and my new colorful crochet cuffs.

These are definitely my new favorites and I'm having

so much fun making them!

This is the perfect summer jewelry. Lightweight, colorful and easy to wear!

I just need to decide which I want to keep!

What's your favorite color combination, or what would you like to see?

I'd love to hear!

Life in a Nutshell

2011-05-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the outdoors with my husband.

Including a 15 mile paddle down the Chattahoochee River.

________________________________________

Being creative.

And getting ready for Market.

__________________________________

Tending to my "garden".

The front two plants are my green bell peppers (front left)

and cherry tomato plants (front right) that I grew from seeds.

And to think they came from such humble beginnings.

______________________________________

Grilling out and enjoying dinner on our TINY bistro set.

We've come a long way since we first tore up the bricks in December.

And I will continue my craigslist hunt for a REAL patio set.

______________________________

Working in the yard.

I should have taken a photo,

but I had over 20 large lawn bags by the curb

and 3 huge stack of branches

after a week out in the yard.

I spent a lot of time cleaning out the beds & weeding.

I also used up the remaining bricks from our patio project

to define the yard. Unfortunately the bricks still need to be dug into the ground.

But that's another project!

More brick work ... and LOTS of tree trimming on the right!

_____________________________

Craigslist surfing.

There are several things I've been on the hunt for:

a china hutch, coffee table, patio set, night stands ...

and I can finally cross this off the list.

It's a 70s era solid wood china hutch is very good condition.

It's by Alta Vista and we got is for $100! I was beyond excited.

I've been looking for 3 years and have wanted something JUST like this.

There are sliding glass doors, but since our floors are old
they shook too much every time you walked by, so they'll stay out for now!

I'm discovering our furniture style is very "Eames era"

as I tend to be drawn to that style of craftsmanship and my husband is too.

We actually have a Eames replica chair that belonged to my husband's grandfather.

_______________________________________________________

Birthday Celebrations!

Last weekend we celebrated my husband's birthday with a cook out at our house.

It was a beautiful evening, gorgeous weather,

and a good way to spend time with friends.

That's been my life in a nutshell for the past week and a half!

I hope all of you are enjoying the outdoors and beautiful weather where you are.

I sure am !

Keep it Simple - My Go To Outfits

2011-05-04T06:21:00.001-07:00

Hello lovelies!

I'm joining up again for WIWW over at the Pleated Poppy.

While recently I've enjoyed dressing celebrities(I mean photoshopping) like Reese Witherspoon, January Jones and Audrina Patridge, I figured it's time to link up a few of my favorite outfits.

I'm a stay at home wife and I work from home.

While I like the idea of getting dressed everyday, I don't.

I mean, I get dressed, just not dressed UP everyday.

Especially ever since I had this moment.

(On a side note, ever since that moment I've been consistent for 7 weeks now!)

While I'm usually drawn to anything with a great print (as evidenced by my friends and the fact that anytime I go shopping with them they'll pull the wildest print off the rack and say, "This totally looks like you!") lately my favorite outfits have been very basic. Like this one.

I seems like so many women (including me!) feel the need to layer-layer-layer and over-accessorize when trying to look trendy and fashionable.

Sometimes our best bet is to keep it simple and spice things up with a few fun accessories.

These are two of my recent favorite go-to outfits (& my favorite fun accessories!).

Outfit #1:

Top: thrifted and refashion by me (vintage refashioned tops will be coming soon to my shop!)

Jeans: my favorite skinny jeans from New York & Co (I desperately need to get another pair!)

Oversized sunglasses: Betsey Johnson

Green GOES WITH EVERYTHING shoes: Mossimo from Target several years ago

Yes, I really do think they go with everything.

Outfit #2:

Top: thrifted (& is the shirt I patterned my white tee after!)

Jeans: same ole same ole

Necklace: made by me

Shoes: some Italian suede shoes I bought in Chicago several year ago

(Wore them over Easter playing with my niece & nephews in the yard. They might be ruined.)

Here's a set I put together of some simple looks. The best thing about keeping it simple is that can totally accessorize with shoes, jewelry, purses, hairstyles.You have more room to give an outfit multiple looks - daytime, work, evening ... whatever you want!

Keep it Simple by SweetClementine featuring vintage tank tops

Headed to any weddings this summer??! Check out this post for bridal luncheons, showers or wedding looks!

What to Wear to a Bridal Shower, Luncheon or Party

2011-04-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

Well if it wasn't wedding season already, I'd have to say the Royal Wedding was a pretty big kick off party! And if you're invited to a wedding or in a wedding this summer there will be plenty of occasions to dress the part. From engagement parties, to bridal showers & luncheons it's time to start looking through your closet.

In case you're looking for some fresh looks, featuring my Marry Me crochet ribbon necklaces I pulled together several outfits that I think are feminine, fun & flirty. And perfect for many of those special spring & summer occasions.

Dress, Shoes, Necklace

Dress, Shoes, Shoes, Necklace

In case you're looking for some fresh looks, featuring my Marry Me crochet ribbon necklaces I pulled together several outfits that I think are feminine, fun & flirty.

I pulled all the clothes & shoes from Modcloth.com - I'm not paid to advertise for them, I just think they have cute clothes. I've successfully ordered from them before, but before you do MAKE SURE you check the measurements and read reviews. Reading the reviews can be very helpful to see how the items actually fit. That's my 2 cents!

Where to find Kate's Wedding Dress

2011-04-29T05:39:00.000-07:00

It didn't take long for some Etsy designers to jump on board with Kate Middleton's wedding dress. Shortly after the first kiss I perused Etsy and immediately found several dress designers promising brides Kate style dresses.

This is one wedding dress style I will be happy to see more of. By the time I got married, I was beyond tired of strapless dresses. I had little cap sleeves on my dress and am very happy to see lace sleeves making a comeback.

They say details of Royal Wedding will impact the wedding industry for years.

Well done Kate, I think you've made a positive impact.

Katherine Custom Made Alencon Lace Bridal

CreoNodo's version

AriaCouture's version

Mother's Day Gift Ideas & a Coupon Code

2011-04-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

For the tea & coffee lover.

A vintage tea cup/ espresso set.

For the jewelry fanatic.

Try something unique this year. Tell her she's one of a kind.

For the Gardener

Vintage milk glass bud vases for flowers from her garden.

For the fashionista Momma on the go.

One of these will keep her looking fashion forward as always.

See how I PHOTOSHOPPED this necklace onto Reese & other celebrities here.

*** Use the Coupon Code LOVELIES to get 20% off your total order. ***

This offer is valid through Friday (4/29/11) at midnight. All orders placed by then will be shipped on Saturday to ensure delivery in time for Mother's Day. Please let me know if I am shipping directly to your Momma, and I'll be sure it's prettily packaged.

Feel free to include a message that I will hand write on a note card to be included with the shipment.

Happy shopping!

William & Kate Save the Dates

2011-04-26T07:13:00.001-07:00

Didn't you get yours?

To find out how you can save on your Save the Dates,

read Part 4 of my How to Save on your (Royal) Wedding Series.

*I designed these Save the Dates for Wills & Kate.

Too bad they didn't need them.

How to Save on your (Royal) Wedding Day: Part 4

2011-04-26T06:11:00.001-07:00

Part 4: SAVE THE DATES!

So I'm a few days behind on my 10 part series of:

How to Save on your (Royal) Wedding Day

Oh well, I'll catch up.

But Part 4 will give you a few ideas on how to save on your save the dates.

Staring with postage.

Did you even consider how much that adds up?

Let's consider a wedding with a guest list of 200.

200 save the dates + 200 invitations + 200 response cards = 600 stamps.

That's $264. On postage. Alone.

Now not everyone sends out save the dates. Not everyone needs to. But for us, since we had family from all over who would need to make arrangements for travel, we opted to go ahead with save the dates. Many brides are opting to send out an email with a link to their wedding website, but many brides are still choosing to send out save the dates.

Before you sign yourself up to spend another couple hundred dollars on save the dates, consider sending out a postcard. At 27 cents a stamp, for 200 postcards you'll save $34. Yes, that seems like a small savings. But it adds up. Might as well cut costs where you can.

DIY Save the Dates from Martha Stewart

Not only will the postage be cheaper if you send a postcard, but with a little design know-how you can create your own with relative ease. If you're slightly photoshop savvy (or have a friend who is) you can custom design the front and back of your card which will save you TONS.

Using my own design (based off one I found online that I liked) I paid less than $40 to print my postcards at a LOCAL print shop,and helped out a local business.

These are my Save the Dates.

For the front I used a photo of us - made it black & white (to save on printing costs) and used photoshop to add in the writing. On the backside, I provided additional information along with our wedding website. I must say, I was pretty pleased with the results!

If you're not convinced you can create your own, consider sending out postcards from your hometown, or the wedding location. You can find tons of vintage postcards online and in many thrift shops too.

Even if you're not computer savvy, you could even use rubber stamps to create your design, then take it to a printer and see if they can print from your hard copy. I got to know my local printer very well. He helped me out, and I gave him business.

Here are my key notes:

1. Postcards will save you on postage.

2. Creating your own design could save you BIG.

3. Consider making your design black & white to save on printing costs.

4. Try and find a LOCAL printer - someone who can work with you and actually answer your questions.

You could save anywhere from $30-$150.

(from postage to designing your own)

*Perhaps I shouldn't tell you that we had to change our wedding dates AFTER we sent out the save the dates? Yeah, go figure. But that's the Army for you :-)

A Few Pretties

2011-04-25T13:36:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend.

Here's a few pretties to look at on this beautiful day.

'Sweet, Simple & Subdued' by mississippimud

I love all of these items.

bo peep - upcycled ... whichgoose $30.00	MOTHERS DAY SALE Us... beadycats $65.90	Yellow Quartz and P... beadycats $69.90	Paris Rooftop 5- Si... AliciaBock $35.00
Mid Century Blendo ... rhan $27.00	b.f.f. forever chainchainchai... $32.00	For your bridesmais... moncadeau $	Vintage Lazy Susan ... rhan $20.00
vintage BIARRITZ 19... jeanjeanvintag... $28.00	delicate but strong... knitalatte $12.00	Rolling stones - 14... artisanlook $896.00	70s Vintage Mod Ova... yokohiyoko $25.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

How to Make a Boutonniere - Video

2011-04-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you want to see the How-To Video posted on the Ledger-Enquirer's website

check it out:

Video: How-To Make a Flower Boutonniere

If you missed the print tutorial you can find it here,

or in her magazine found in Columbus, GA.

A Faux Flower Boutonniere is a great way to make a keepsake item for groomsmen, prom dates, or anyone!

It takes little effort, little time ... and little money.

How to Save on your (Royal) Wedding Day: Part 2

2011-04-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

Part 2 of 10 on

How to Save an extra $160 on your (Royal) Wedding Day

inspired by the upcoming Royal Wedding between Prince William & Kate Middleton.

Together with the $270 savings from Part 1 - that's a total of $430 in savings so far.

Don't forget to check back for my other savings tips!

I'm a big believer that the little things add up.

Especially when you attach the word "wedding" to any of it.

So here's a few of the SMALL ways I BIG saved when it came to my wedding day.

Including:

Something Borrowed & Something Blue.

This photo makes me think of the leg lamp from a Christmas Story. Anyone, anyone??

1. Something Blue: Order your Garter Set from Etsy

Heirloom Venice Lace Garter Set $33.50

Lacey White & Blue Garter Set $17.99

Consider ordering a handmade garter from Etsy. I was less than thrilled by the cheapos I found at the bridal shops when I was shopping. So I turned to Etsy and found a gorgeous one for a reasonable price from the garterlady. A $40 price tag included heirloom bridal lace, one to keep, one to toss & included that "something blue" since she sews a little blue satin ribbon inside each garter. Spend a few minutes to search on ETSY and you'll not only support a local crafter, but most likely get a higher quality piece for less.

2. Somethings Borrowed

Like I mentioned earlier, when all those little wedding purchases are added up at the end, they can really tack on a hefty amount to your wedding budget. Consider crossing off "something borrowed" from your list by consulting your friends and family to see what they might have to contribute to your special day.

Slips & Wedding Attire

(save $60-$120)

Can you really tell I'm wearing a borrowed brasselette?

I borrowed one of my best friend brasselette who was married a couple years before me.

She's like a sister to me. We raided each other's closets in high school, so why not share something on our wedding day?

By borrowing this item I saved about $60. Unfortunately she didn't wear a slip so I can to go ahead with that purchase. But if any of my friends need a slip, I have one sitting in my closet that will save them $60.

A-line skirt slip from David's Bridal $59

Brasselette from David's Bridal $55

Veils & Headpieces

(save $100-200)

Yes, the wind was actually blowing my veil away!

Another item I knew I ended up saving big on was my wedding veil. I've always loved the photos of my mom wearing her cathedral length wedding veil & knew I wanted to wear a veil on my wedding day. After trying on several at the bridal shop, we decided to go home and see how my mom's veil would look with my dress. With a few minor adjustments made by my seamstress mother in-law it was updated and tailored to match my dress. And considering cathedral veils cost upwards of $100, this was quite a savings. And I got to wear my mom's veil.

So before you commit a couple hundred dollars of your wedding budget to wedding attire accessories, consider borrowing from some former brides.

You just might save an extra $160.

Check out Part 1 to see how making my own boutonnieres & wedding favors saved me $270 on my wedding day!

How to Save on your (Royal) Wedding Day: Part 3

2011-04-19T09:14:00.000-07:00

Part 3 of 10 on

How to Save on your (Royal) Wedding Day

inspired by the upcoming Royal Wedding between Prince William & Kate Middleton

Carrying on from yesterday's Part 2: Somethings Borrowed, here's a few more ideas on items to consider borrowing.

Cake Topper

(save $30)

I'm a big fan of tradition, so when it came to a cake topper, I knew I wanted to use one from the family. My grandma on my dad's side has a "baker's rack" which she has displayed items she's collected over the year that carry sentimental value. One of them is the cake topper that was used on her and my grandfather's wedding day.

Originally, I had wanted to use that one - but it would have been too complicated to try and have it shipped without getting damaged. That's when my mom reminded me that she still had the cake topper used on the day she married my dad.

And it was perfect.

I tried looking at modern cake toppers available, and they just all seemed so hokey & cheesy to me. This one had sentimental value, suited my style more, and was free!

Although I didn't end of borrowing the following items, considering asking your friends and family to share the following:

Champagne Flutes ($40+) & Serving Sets ($40+)

If your family and friends are as generous as ours were, chances are you'll have people asking how they can help. Those closest to you, who care about and love you want to be part of your special day. Next time they ask, consider taking them up on their offer and see if they have something special they'd like you to use on your special day.

Chances are it would mean a lot to them, and to you.

Oh, and did I mention it could save you over $100?

Don't forget to check out Part 1 where making your own boutonnieres and wedding favors could save you at least $270.

You can watch the DIY boutonniere video here.

Part 2 reminds you that all the little things add up - especially when it comes to wedding attire. I saved over $160 by borrowing a few key items.

How to Save on your (Royal) Wedding Day: Part 1

2011-04-19T04:48:00.000-07:00

With the Royal Wedding only 10 days away everyone's talking extravagance & luxury. While not everyone can afford a royal wedding, there are PLENTY of ways you can save & still have a wedding fit for a princess.

As highlighted in April's issue of her magazine, I gave a tutorial for two different projects:

How to Make your Own Boutonnieres & How to Make your own Wedding Favors

Seriously, with a little effort you have save literally hundreds, even thousands of dollars & still have the wedding of your dreams. The knot.com recently quoted the average wedding to cost $27,800.

Our wedding featured a cocktail hour, a sit down dinner, beer & wine, a three layer cake, a DJ, photographer, rose centerpieces on each table, 8 bridesmaids, 7 groomsmen & around 200 guests. We were WELL under that figure. Part of it is that I know how to stretch a budget.

So I thought I'd share my ideas for any of you brides-to-be, or mothers of the brides-to-be.

Starting with these two ways I saved big: making my own boutonnieres & favors.

I couldn't seem to find any favor that was less than $1 dollar a piece. And most of them look like they should cost about 5 cents. And at 200 guests, I didn't like the idea of spending at least $200 on something that would most likely get thrown away. So armed with a little clay, some ribbon and a few small purchases, I had over 200 wedding favors for less than $30 and saved at least $170.

A photo of the clay heart ornaments featured at each place setting. Our names & date were handwritten on the back (by me) with a fine tip sharpie marker. It was fun to see our ornaments hanging from friend's & family's Christmas trees several months later.

Boutonniere's were another expensive item I saved big on. When getting quotes from local florists, I couldn't stomach the fact that the SIMPLEST boutoniere was going to cost about $20 each, costing upwards of $140 for boutonnieres. I didn't want simple. I wanted something a little different, but I couldn't afford the florists vision of different. So I looked online for other ideas on DIY boutonnieres, headed to my local craft store & spent about $30 and had enough supplies to make more than 7 boutonnieres! Keepsake boutonnieres at that!

That and I saved about $100!

A photo of the boutonnieres I made for our groomsmen.

The TUTORIAL on How to Make your Own Boutonnieres

How to Make your Own Wedding Favors

Part 1 of How to Save on your (Royal) Wedding Day saved me approximately $270! Check back each day to see other ways to save!

For the next 10 days I'll feature 10 different ways on How to Save on your Wedding Day, all leading up to the Royal Wedding of Kate Middleton & Prince William on April 29th.

If you click on the above images, you should be able to enlarge my how-to instructions as featured in the magazine. Please let me know if you have any questions, or would like me to include a more detailed step by step right here on the blog.

I'm linking up with CREATE blog Party at the Patriotic Peacock.

Stop by check out what other crafters are making!

Cleaning out my Closet

2011-04-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year.

To CLEAN OUT MY CLOSET!

Banana Republic 100% Silk Top

To re-examine those tops that loving hang in my closet and look at the rows and rows of shoes carefully lined up. And be honest about which portion of my closet I actually wear (or that still fits!).

Madden Girl Centurie Metallic Gold Ballet Flats sz. 6.5

There are plenty of items that didn't pass the test. While one pile will be delivered to Goodwill, a select few made it to the ebay pile. Here's hoping I earn a little extra cash-ola so I can turn around & spend it (at Goodwill) when I drop off my donations.

That's just killing 2 birds with one stone, right?!

Michael Kors E/W Tote

Check them out if you're looking for a few new pieces to add to your wardrobe.

Michael Stars Original Tee

Vintage Leather Belt by Calderon

Tory Burch Style Flats/ Bernando Style Sandals - sz. 6.5

Ever got rid of something during your closet spring cleaning that you later regretted?

What to wear with a plain white shirt: Take 1

2011-04-15T08:32:00.001-07:00

Hello lovies!

I was getting ready to meet a girlfriend for lunch when I thought I'd share my outfit of the day with you, and show you how I like to take a boring outfit (plain white shirt + jeans) and spice it up.

This is my new favorite creamy-white shirt.

I made it with a linen/cotton blend fabric.

It's also the first shirt I've ever made.

It's a SUPER simple style that I copied after one of my favorite thrift (GOODWILL) store finds.

Many people think you need to wear lots of pattern, color & textures to be fashionable. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my pattern, color & textures and mixing them up or wearing them all at once, but sometimes a simple outfit with the right accessories will go a long way.

So over the course of several weeks (months .. who knows) I'm going to show you how to wear a plain white shirt.

How to dress it up & dress it down.

Here's Take 1:

Wear a Long Necklace.

Made by me available here.

Spice it up with cocktail ring.

(I got mine at Target last year)

(Maybe I should have painted my nails. Oh well, I'm keeping it real. This is my real out-the-door look!)

Wear some funky earrings.

Available here.

Paired with my favorite Skinny Jeans from New York & Co. and a pair of snakeskin (faux) sandals I'm feeling pretty put together, yet casual.

What's your favorite way to dress up a plain shirt?

If you need help accessorizing, stop by my shop and get 20% off good through Friday 4/22/11.

Use the coupon code WIWWFASHIONISTA

Linking up with WIWW over at the Pleated Poppy!

What to Watch this Weekend: God Grew Tired of Us

2011-04-15T05:51:00.000-07:00

Last night my husband and I watched a documentary/memoir titled God Grew Tired of Us. It follows some of the Lost Boys of Sudan and is an UNBELIEVABLE, epic & true tale.

Of life. Of perseverance. Of hope.

You will be inspired by John Bul Dau, one of the Lost Boys of Sudan as he and the other lost boys remind of what life is really about.

*****

Don't ever take anyone at face value because you don't know their journey.

You'll remember that EVERY PERSON has a story to tell.

Even that stranger in the grocery store.

*****

Here's a trailer for the movie in case you're curious.

But I almost recommend you skip the trailer and just watch the movie.

Just like with Sarah Kay, this is another instance where I just had to share.

This isn't a new film, only newly discovered to me.

I hope you'll be as inspired as I was.

How to Inspire Someone (through performance poetry)

2011-04-13T11:38:00.000-07:00

Sarah Kay, you've inspired me. To do what, I'm not sure.

It just so happens we share the same name, so when she performed this part of her poem,

I was hooked.

"My parents named me Sarah, which is a biblical name. In the original story God told Sarah she could do something impossible and she laughed, because the first Sarah, she didn't know what to do with impossible. And me? Well, neither do I, but I see the impossible every day. Impossible is trying to connect in this world, trying to hold onto others while things are blowing up around you, knowing that while you're speaking, they aren't just waiting for their turn to talk -- they hear you. They feel exactly what you feel at the same time that you feel it. It's what I strive for every time I open my mouth --that impossible connection."

Her passion for life is invigorating.

How could I not pass it on.

What inspires you?

How to Sell on Craigslist

2011-04-13T04:41:00.000-07:00

Just about everyday I like to scroll through craigslist.

In my search, I'm always impressed by people's "marketing" capabilities, and thought I would share some of them with you.

Find an old typewriter and assume it's worth a lot.

Who cares if it looks totally rusted and like it came from the bottom of a lake.

Asking price: $300

Estimated Value: $40-$150 ($150 being top value)

Buy it now.

Sell a bunch of mismatched glasses together.

{Oh yeah, they're called "Cocktail Glasses & Beer Mugs"}

Tell everyone it's a "good deal" because they're only 33 cents a piece!

Asking price: $12

Estimated Value: pretty much worthless

Buy it anyways.

Call something ANTIQUE, because that means it's worth something.

Like these "antique" pool furniture pieces. 13 pieces for $150!!!

What a steal!

I don't know what they're worth,

but they look like they need a LOT of work.

Make it yours.

Entice Customers by telling them this is the LAST WEEKEND to buy!

I'll have you know, I've seen this mirror listed for MONTHS now.

It's been called contemporary & surf board inspired.

I just call it ... well, nevermind.

Asking Price: $30

Estimated Value: actually, it is a big mirror that you could totally refinish ...

P.S. those are rhinestone gems across the bottom.

Better buy it THIS WEEKEND!!!

Take HORRIBLE photos to pique buyer's interest

about what they are ACTUALLY looking at.

Try & identify the following items:

Mystery Item #1

Mystery Item #2

Mystery Item #3

Good luck selling your diamonds in the rough on Craigslist!

What have you found?

How to Wear a Crochet Ribbon Necklace like a Celebrity

2011-04-12T10:10:00.001-07:00

Go here to steal Reese's look.

I've been having a lot of fun "dressing" celebrities.

By that, I mean photoshopping my jewelry onto them.

So I looked for celebrities that had the look I'm going for-

the casually cool chick

The girl who looks put together but doesn't look like she spent forever getting ready.

The girl that wakes up, can throw on an outfit, grab a cup of coffee and start her day looking

effortlessly cool, classy & approachable.

Simple, everyday

outfits, that with the right accessories, can look totally put together.

*Victoria Beckham (aka Posh Spice) in a white shirt, black blazer & black jeans

*January Jones (aka Betty Draper) in a striped sweater & boyfriend jeans

*January Jones in a plaid button down & wide leg trousers

*Eva Longoria in an oversized sweater & blue jeans

*Jessica Alba in a button down jean shirt & flirty cream skirt

Click on the photo to enlarge - you'll get a much better view of my awesome photoshopping skills :-)

That's what my STYLE is all about.

By the way, HI, this is me.

And my style? Simple, everyday looks, that can be transformed with accessories.

Like long dangly earrings.

See how I added a little something to Audrina Patridge's look.

So I know this isn't what I wore, but I'm linking up with the Pleated Poppy for What I Wore Wednesday. Consider this, what I WISH I wore.

Long Lengths of Summer

2011-04-09T08:36:00.000-07:00

Vogue agrees.

Every girl needs a pair of fantastically long earrings.

I'm so happy I decided to keep these.

I'm not suggesting you stock up.

That's just not as much fun.

Instead, go on a hunt.

For that one pair to add to your repertoire.

Long Lengths of Summer by SweetClementine featuring beaded jewelry

Another Celebrity Sighting in Mississippi Mud

2011-04-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

*Image has been photoshopped.

Sadly, Reese Witherspoon is not actually wearing my necklace.

I just happen to think it completes her look!

Reese Witherspoon is always looking cool, calm and collected.

Check out her everyday on-the-go look: a denim dress, brown leather boots, aviator sunglasses, a leather satchel, and her very own Mississippi Mud crochet ribbon necklace.

Crochet Ribbon Necklace

Reese's Everyday Look by SweetClementine featuring drawstring tote bags

See which celebrity is wearing Mississippi Mud ...

2011-04-07T11:33:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe Audrina Patridge isn't really wearing my designs. But she should.

They fit in perfect with her looks.

Rocker chic & modern vixen.

To steal her look ...

OOAK Crochet Cuff

Gnarled Nest

Be on the lookout for future celebrity sightings.

The Story by Brandi Carlile

2011-04-06T15:00:00.000-07:00

This is a beautiful song. It gives me chills to listen to it.

Turn up the volume and enjoy.

Live Version - my favorite

Lyrics | Brandi Carlile - The Story lyrics

Official Video

Yes, this is also the song Callie sang on Grey's Anatomy the other night.

DIY Hypertufa: how to make your own planters

2011-04-02T07:06:00.000-07:00

I never knew I would love flowers & landscaping & gardening as much as I do. I guess that's what happens when you grow up and have your very own little plot of land.

If you remember from this post, we're trying to landscape part of our backyard.

We've redefined & outlined the space with grasses.

(view from the back of the yard looking at the back of the house, with gravel driveway & carport on the right)

(view from the middle of the patio looking towards the back right of the yard where our early 1800s barn stands.)

My current vision is to have several oversized planters with TBD flowers/plants/shrubs. Perhaps plant a few other bushes or small trees in the ground, and fill the rest with mulch. While I really have only thought of using terracotta planters like these, since they can come with a hefty price tag,

I decided to look into making my own planters and googled:

"how to make your own planters" and discovered hypertufa.

Honestly I wasn't sure what I thought I would make, but I there had to be another alternative.

source

I've seen similar looking planters before but just assumed they were concrete planters.

Nope, hypertufa folks.

Leave it to Martha Stewart to take it one step further.

Since it's Saturday afternoon, my husband is still out turkey hunting and I just got in my run, I'm totally headed out to the thrift store to see if I can score some baskets! In the meantime, here are some videos on youtube I found helpful.

I'd love to hear if you've tried this, plan on trying it, or have another idea of DIY planters! Have a wonderful weekend!

Friday Feature: How to Write a Letter

2011-04-01T03:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Liz,

Your beach inspired posts have me dreaming of cool breezes and crashing waves.

Summer can't come soon enough.

Dear Joanna,

Whether you are teaching us how to create the perfect cheese plate, how to wear a braided top bun or how to make do it yourself cloud artwork, your blog oozes everyday charm.

Dear Natalie,

You are the poster child for the DIY "How To {and why you should} redo your furniture".

Please come to my house for a day.

I promise you can paint every single piece of furniture any color you want.

And last but not least ...

Dear Michael,

I've enjoyed following along as you update your absolutely adorable & charming Bed & Breakfast. J'adore your DIY wall art and your handpainted signs.

I hope this finds you doing well.

Sincerely, Sarah

Now at the Columbus Museum Shop

2011-03-31T12:51:00.001-07:00

You can now find these designs at the Columbus Museum Shop right here in Georgia!

In just a couple of weeks they are hosting their annual fundraising event called Let There Be Art - which I actually featured in my last article in Columbus and the Valley Magazine.

Perhaps Garden & Gun associate editor Haskell Harris will stop by the shop and pick up a few of my pieces. Now that would be cool.

Thoughts on Landscaping the Yard

2011-03-29T07:19:00.001-07:00

Here's our little home.

We love it and enjoy spending time on the front porch.

Perched up on a little hill we're set back from the sidewalk and street giving us plenty of privacy.

And yes, I took a photo of a photo from my computer screen.

As far as front yard landscaping - we're happy with it.

Except for the weeds.

Any tried & true suggestion on the best way to go about killing an overgrowth of weeds from your yard?

And yes, (above) the dog statues are wearing bunny ears for Easter, and if you look closely you'll see my husband standing in the doorway.

The side porch.

My parents - who know plants and happen to have a beautiful back yard - helped out so much last weekend while they were here and picked out these beautiful flowers for us!

(above) The 2 corner planters: Bouganvilla, Snow Cone Candytuft, and Purple Fountain grass.

The 2 center planters: Viola Klose Sage

I love them.

(above) The back right planter: Leyland Cypress

I have always loved the look of Sky Pencil Japanese Holly bushes.

I don't know why, but they remind me of the French countryside.

(above) Also planted: red Salvia & purple Petunias

The back corner planter is a Majesty Palm plant.

Patio furniture - complements of Craigslist. I'm on the hunt for wrought iron set for our back patio. New is just too expensive, so I'll just keep checking Craiglist. Unless you know someone in GA selling one :-)

I planted both these flowers (above) last summer. I just love the richness of the purple and red together. The trick to enjoying your Salvia longer, just keep pinching back the blooms and they'll keep regrowing.

Here's my little rosemary bush, basil pot, and cherry tomato & yellow bell pepper plants - which JUST finally sprouted! (See the tiny sprout on the right?!) I'm planning to replant them all together in a much larger pot together.

I don't know if you remember the beautiful & bountiful Rosemary bush I rescued from the trash from last year, but it died about a month or so later. I never could find the right place for it. Hopefully this pint-sized bush will be easier to maintain.

Onto the back yard ...

Here you see a corner of our almost-finished project of redoing the brick patio! (That project will have to be a separate post entirely! Perhaps a guest post from my husband.) Along with the patio redo- we're revamping the surrounding landscaping. Using plants from around the yard, we separated & replanted these grasses along the backside of the patio, curving around the firepit and the side of the yard, essentially making a huge planter between the car port & the yard.

More of the newly planted grasses & planter.

The question is, how should we fill this space?

THIS is what used to be there! I have no idea what kind of plant it was - but it was totally overgrown and jungle-y!

Here's what I'm picturing - a few of these planters, maybe planting a few things in the ground, and cover the rest with mulch.

Or edge the area with bricks, still use a few of these planters, and fill the rest with stone.

My husband wants to build a fountain. (We have one further along in the back yard.)

Hmmm ... that sounds like quite a project to me.

Any other suggestions?

Who'd a thought I'd enjoy working in the yard as much as I do! Last night I worked outside for several hours. It was just too nice to sit inside and fold laundry.

Do you enjoy working in your yard? What are you planting?

*** update ***

I just learned about hypertufa planters, and how to maker your own.

See this post for how to videos!

I'm linking up with Serenity Now and Tatertots & Jello for their Bloggy Reading & Weekend Wrap-up & over at Flaunt it Friday.

Roll down the windows ...

2011-03-28T05:51:00.000-07:00

Car rides & sunny skies.

Wind in my hair, sun in my eyes.

This song makes me want just that.

I downloaded this free on iTunes with my Pick of the Week from Starbucks. I suggest you do the same. I'm not sure if this will work, but this is the download code on the back of the card: PYNLWAYNFTRR

Here's to a little pep in your step this Monday.

Payless, you impress.

2011-03-27T05:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, truth be told, I haven't been shopping in a while.

Unless you count my workout clothes shopping spree - and well, I don't.

So I've been doing a little window shopping.

As in online window shopping.

As in, Modcloth.com is open on one window, and Payless.com on the other.

And seriously, have you seen the shoes available at Payless? How cute are these? I think I'm going to have to find out where the Payless is in my town and hope they have these in stock.

If you could only get ONE, which would YOU get?

Haircuts & Clothes

2011-03-24T06:02:00.000-07:00

I am totally digging super short blonde looks right now.

I've been itching to chop my hair off for a while. I had hair about this short and this blonde my junior year in high school. But right now it's the longest and the darkest it's ever been.

And while I'm itching-itching to chop-chop, I've decided to wait. I mean, you can only really have long hair up until a certain point in life before it's old lady creepy long. I know I'm going to eventually chop it off.

So, I'm waiting.

For now.

Until I chop it off.

And do something like this.

Or this.

I mean seriously, how cute is she?!

This girl chopped off her own hair.
Let me tell you I attempted the same thing once. Actually, I shoved a pair of scissors into my roommates hands confident she could chop it off for me. Not so my friends, not so. My 2nd semester junior year college photos shall forever be forgotten.

source

Now aside from adorable cute haircuts, I'm oggling new lines and looks.

Hello Betsey Johnson.

Meet me. A total sucker for floral print dresses.

Now check out these looks from Prada's Fall 2011 line. I told Jenny that this is how I would imagine Madeline from the children's books to dress if she grew up and became a fashion model hot shot.

While I love the colors, boldness & structure, I'm just not that tailored of a person.

But I do love the unexpected pop of color. How gorgeous are those red shoes and that red bag?

Give me wild, loud, clean, layered, flirty, fun. I think the weather is getting to me. Bring it on spring. Bring it on. And summer ... well, you just better watch out.