6.20.2013

Daily Vs. Weekend & New Discoveries {Beauty}

6.20.2013
Recently, there has been a drastic change between my daily makeup and the products I wear on the weekend. As many of you know, I work with kids that are involved in CPS. I travel to their placements and work with them directly on improving poor behaviors, teaching them coping skills, and helping them cultivate a talent, skill, or hobby in hopes that they may return to some semblance of normalcy. I spend most of the week driving. Dressed up clothes take a backseat, and my makeup is super simple Monday through Friday (unless I go out). I used to try and keep up with the makeup routine I was always comfortable with, but over the past few months, I've realized that less is more for work.

I use the Make Up For Ever HD because I find the formula very thin, almost like a tinted moisturizer. It covers some blotchy spots on my face, but it's very natural. I use MAC prep and prime highlighter under my eyes to brighten them up, some UD liner in Stash (which is an olive) on the lash line, and CG LashBlast mascara. I sweep a nude/peach matte shadow all over the lids and that's all the eye makeup I've been wearing. Some light pink cheeks, Revlon brow fantasy to cover some bare spots throughout my brows, and a dusting of powder and I'm out the door. Throughout the day, I apply a Revlon lip butter in Juicy Papaya or some old fashioned chapstick when my lips need the moisture.



My weekend makeup is definitely more fun! This is when I can play around and let my hair down so to speak. We usually have plans with friends, date nights, or we try to get out of town. We love our weekends!
I like to use my favorite foundation, Mat Velvet +, because it has amazing coverage and staying power. Once I apply it, I know it's there for the long haul. Hourglass primer also ensures a smooth, even coverage. I go to town with shadows (loving my MAC palette), although I keep them neutral because I enjoy playing up my lips with a bright color. I also find that I only reach for my bronzer and cheek highlighter during the weekend, but I'm not sure why. If you have any questions about specific products, please ask :)


Now on to my new "discoveries".

By far the best makeup remover wipes I've ever tried! That's a big statement right? How many times have I raved about Neutrogena, Ponds, etc.? Well I adored those, until I discovered these. Please try them! They are amazing. I love how saturated they are, even the very last sheet. They remove every last stitch of makeup.

I've wanted to try this body conditioner from Lush for quite some time now, but I finally went to the only Lush remotely close to me while I was on vacation last week. Now I've only used this twice, but it's SO GOOD! I used it to shave my legs and they have never felt so soft. I don't think I'll be using this in the shower daily, but definitely on the weekends when I want to feel extra special :) Did I mention it smells of roses? Gorgeous! 

Do you switch up your weekday Vs. weekend routine?
♥ Noelle
11 comments

6.18.2013

Wedding {Invitations & Bachelorette}

6.18.2013
What a whirlwind these past few days have been! I apologize for being slightly M.I.A. but I took the latter part of last week off so that I could focus more on wedding planning and my bachelorette party.

We received our handmade Etsy invitations and absolutely love them! They are very simple, but that's exactly what my fiancé and I wanted. Our wedding colors are black, white, and blush. The three layers of cardstock reflect that, as well as our seashore ceremony and reception that will follow. I am hesitant to post this because of the personal information (my fiancé joked we will have some wedding crashers) but I wanted you guys to see it anyway. I know some of you are planning your own weddings, and it's always nice to get an idea for your event.


Although Nate isn't in the military, we are able to do a beach wedding on Camp Pendleton military base because his dad is retired from the navy and both of his parents still work in that field. Three more months until the big day. Time flies when you're planning!


My joint bachelorette with my best friend took place this weekend, and it was hysterical! I think considering the possibilities, our friends respected our wishes and kept the debauchery to a minimum. We stayed at the Hard Rock in San Diego, followed by dinner at the Marble Room. BOTH were amazing, especially the service and would recommend either if you're ever in the area.

Our friend set up the suite we stayed in with party bags, candy, and cupcakes. So sweet of her!

I gave my fellow bride-to-be a matching silver heart ring from Catbird.


My friend Anne and I 

Grainy night picture. I wish I had taken more, but I was too busy having fun to bother.


 One wedding event down, a few more to go!

 ♥ Noelle
14 comments

6.12.2013

The Classics

6.12.2013




Blouse - Express
Jeans - Banana Republic (old)
Pumps - J. Crew
Bag - Michael Kors
Necklace - Kate Spade (check Nordstrom)
Watch - Michael Kors (similar)
Bracelets - Stella & Dot  & Anthro (check stores)




When I don't know what to wear, I revert to the classics. A button down blouse, dark wash jeans, pointy toe pumps, a structured handbag, and red lipstick will take you through any event or occasion looking polished and chic. These are all pieces that I know I'll have in my closet forever, and when in doubt, I know I can rely on them. Fun new bracelets from Stella & Dot and Anthropologie keep the look fresh and young.

What items in your closet do you rely on?
♥ Noelle
16 comments

6.10.2013

Palm Trees & Blue Skies

6.10.2013



Dress - Express (comes prints and colors. I want more!
Clutch - (ages old)
Necklace - Anthropologie
Ring - YSL
Love Knot Earrings - H&M, check stores (similar)
Flats - Ivanka Trump


The weather has been gorgeous here, and although I'm thankful, I can't stop dreaming about our honeymoon in Hawaii. Only three and a half months to go until I'm reunited with my favorite place in the world. I would love to travel to other parts unknown, but when it comes down to it, there is no place I think I'd rather be then on Maui with the love of my life. Palm trees, blue skies, and ocean breezes await. This little dress will definitely be packed in my suitcase, and I think I might even go back to Express and buy another in a different color. Great for Summertime anywhere :)

How was your weekend?
 ♥ Noelle
16 comments

6.07.2013

Snapshots

6.07.2013

I love seeing posts where you fabulous ladies share mini moments from your week. I decided it was high time I do my own.


THE most beautiful flowers I've ever bought. Peonies from Trader Joe's. Go get some while they are in season (blink and you'll miss them). I keep seeing everyone's on Instagram and I don't mind one bit. I think every girl can appreciate their beauty.


I've always wanted a Voluspa candle. Everytime I walk into Anthropologie, I am bombarded by the amazing scents! This one in Laguna is unbelievable (and very hard to describe). It smells like the store is all I can say!


Speaking of Anthro, I also picked up this oceanic blue scalloped bowl to keep some of my daily jewelry in. These bracelets I picked out (reminiscent of this by S&D) will definitely make their way onto my wrists and into this beautiful little bowl :)


Current view from my kitchen, Chloe Bear looking at me like I'm crazy. "Play with ME auntie, STOP taking pictures for your blog!" But I love peonies, Chloe.


Have a great weekend!

♥ Noelle
12 comments

6.05.2013

What I've Been Reading {May 2013}

6.05.2013
Happy June everyone! I apologize that this post is a little late, but as the saying goes...better late then never. This month's question comes from Kristen: What's your go-to recipe? Drink, dinner, dessert, whatever!

My go-to recipes are extremely boring. Yawn-inducing, really. We eat a lot of grilled chicken around here, coupled with asparagus, mushrooms, green beans, and other grilled or sauteed vegetables. We usually just put a little garlic salt on the chicken and then throw it on our outdoor grill that my mom gave us as a housewarming present. Other go-to's include salmon (also grilled with some olive oil and lemon) and whole wheat Spaghetti. Nothing ground breaking.



The one recipe I do want to share with you guys is something that my fiance's mom taught me. The recipe is actually from Pepperidge Farms so I cant take any credit. It's a delicious appetizer to serve for a dinner party. She usually makes it during the holidays, but I love it year round because it contains my ultimate guilty pleasure - cheese :)

Baked Brie

Ingredients:
1/2 of a 17.3-ounce package Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry Sheets (1 sheet), thawed according to package directions
1 (8-ounce) Brie cheese round
1 egg
1 tbsp. water

Directions: 
Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Unfold the pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Place the cheese in the center. Fold the pastry up over the cheese to cover. Trim the excess pastry and press to seal. Reserve the pastry scraps for decoration (you can also skip this if you like). 

Beat the egg and water in a small bowl with a fork or whisk. Brush the seam of the pastry with egg mixture. Place seam side down on a baking sheet. Decorate with pastry scraps if desired. Brush with the egg mixture. 

Bake for 25 minutes until the pastry is golden brown. Let stand for 20 minutes before serving. I like to enjoy a slice with a glass of wine. Super easy to make, even for a beginner like me! You can drizzle honey for a sweet taste.














♥ Noelle
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