Friday Finds + Faves

Happy Friday, friends! Are you all ready for the long weekend? We don't have too much going on, but we do have a family wedding to attend tomorrow evening. We will be bringing along the kids again (Camden is the ring bearer!), so we will see how long they both last through the ceremony and reception! Although, the last wedding we took them to, they loved that dance floor! 😆 Also, very excited for college football to start tomorrow! We will be watching the first Bucks game at home while we get ready for the wedding, but we definitely will be cheering them on! 

Sorry this post is up later than expected! Life has just been super busy lately and I'm hoping to get on a better routine of posting soon! This week's post will have a lot to do with all of the amazing SALES that are happening this weekend! I will list a few of theme below, but check out my 'Current Sales' tab for more Labor Day sales as I will be adding them as I find them all weekend!

Now on to my Finds and Faves from this past week...

1. This cozy, oversized camo sweatshirt came in the mail earlier in the week and I'm in love! I am digging the lighter, more muted camo colors and the fact that it is over sized and works perfectly with leggings! Perfect for bumming around the house! BONUS - it just so happens to be on major sale for less than $27! 

2. These high waisted, olive green jeggings were the perfect addition to my fall wardrobe! The fit is perfect and they are really comfortable (run true to size). I love that I can mix them with so many different tops and layers! I love the mix of the olive green with this black and white striped top and my denim jacket. All fall staple pieces!

These jeggings are currently on sale for less than $38!

3. This graphic tee says it all... I love the easy outfit of a graphic tee with comfy jeans! Right now all graphic tees from this retailer are 50% off and most are under $10! Linked to a few of my favorites below!

5. Favoreats app - I just downloaded this app this week in hopes it will help me with my weekly meal planning and grocery shopping. Meggan from the Golden Style Book recommended it and I'm so glad she did! I have been feeling really burnt out with cooking and coming up with meal ideas, so this came at the perfect time! It actually will link to your Pinterest account so you can pull in recipes from there and you can also share recipes with friends that download the app too!

4. The first Game Day of the season is tomorrow! I'm super excited for football season to start! I feel like it is always the start of such a fun season of the year and ends with a slew of my favorite holidays!

That's all I got for this short and sweet Friday Finds + Faves! Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!!

Friday Finds + Faves

Happy Friday, friends! We made it through the week!

I want to start sharing these Friday Finds/Faves posts with you all again. I always feel like I have so much to share and then the week flies by! But, these Friday posts can be just a quick little round up of some things I have loved from the week and also a round up of the outfit posts from my instagram... So, let's get started!

1. Amazon Finds - I got $20 this tunic tee and this $10 blanket scarf on the mail earlier this week and I am loving the combo with leggings! The blanket scarf is actually a triangle shape, which I like so it's not so bulky when I wrap it around my neck. The tunic fits true to size and I'm wearing a small. It has a nice long length that is perfect to wear with leggings! Comes in a ton of colors!

2. Spanx Faux Leather Leggings - These were definitely a splurge and I actually ordered then right before the Nordstrom sale ended when they came back in stock in my size. They are back to full price now ($98), BUT I will say after receiving them and trying them on they are definitely worth the hype! They are true SPANX brand and really suck you in up top! And I love that you can dress them up or down. I'm planning to put together a blog post maybe next month with lots of different ways to style them. These run true to size and I'm wearing a size small. They are a little long for me, but I'm able to pull them up a bit so they don't bunch up too much at the bottom. (I'm also only 5'2" so everything is long on me!)

($20 tunic tee | $10 blanket scarf | SPANX faux leather leggings | ankle booties)

3. Target backpack: I ordered this backpack handbag after my girl Ja'Net (Running on Clean) raved about it on her instagram stories. I'm so happy I got this bag because it can fit all the things AND double as a diaper bag if needed. Also, it's less than $37!

(olive green high waisted jeggings | striped long sleeve tee | ankle booties | backpack handbag | monogram necklace)

(plaid flannel top | similar black distressed jeans | backpack | ankle booties)

4. Chilly Mornings: It has been chilly in the mornings this week and it really got me excited for fall weather! I actually wore a cardigan and jeans a few days this week! Of course, it's supposed to get back up in the 80s and possibly 90s next week, so enjoying it while it lasts!

(lace trim cami | thermal button down top | high waisted distressed jeans | booties | leopard clutch | monogram necklace)

Other random things I loved from this week...

5. Read Scripture app: I recently downloaded this app to help me with studying the bible. I've tried some other bible study apps and this one is my favorite because it actually has videos you watch before each chapter that gives a great visual of the stories. I'm such a visual learner and this has helped me understand the stories of the bible so much better than just reading it alone! Highly recommend!

6. Lindsey's 'LRT Fall' playlist on Spotify: This playlist is giving me all the 'sitting in a cozy coffee shop' vibes. I love this mix of music with all of my favorite bands/artists (think Lumineers, Mumford & Sons, Vance Joy, etc). I've been listening to this mix in the morning while I work and sip on my coffee!

7. Pumpkin Spice coffee creamer (sugar free): Speaking of coffee... Call me #basic but, the combo of my freshly brewed coffee and this creamer in the morning just makes me happy!

8. One on One time: I've been loving our new schedule which allows me to have one on one time with my boys every Wednesday. I've been able to switch my work schedule around so that every Wednesday I'm home with one of my boys (the other one goes to my parent's house for the day). I've just been craving more one on one time with both of them, and my parents agreed to this set up so we made it happen! They are both at such fun ages that also require a lot of my undivided attention. Wether we spend the day out and about running around, meeting for a playdate or just hanging out at home, I just love being with them and having that quality time with them. This past Wednesday, I was home with Bennett and we had such a fun day! He was feeling a little under the weather (I think it's allergies!) so we just stayed home most of the day, but were able to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather in the afternoon. His little smile and laugh just melts my mama heart!

+++

What have you been loving this week?

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

Friday Finds + April Favorites + GIVEAWAYS!

We made it to Friday! I don't know about you guys, but I feel as though this month is flying by! I have a lot I wanted to share from this week, so I'll get right to it!

FINDS FROM THIS WEEK

I wanted to share some of my favorite recent finds with you all before they sell out or go out of stock. 

block heel pumps - under $30! | beaded hoop earrings - on sale for less than $7!

First off, this wrap dress is something I ordered in hopes to wear to an upcoming wedding, but it would also be the perfect vacation dress! I just love the flattering wrap style with ruffles that is so on trend right now. The floral print is so vibrant in person and perfect for summer! Unfortunately, it looks like there's only one size left in this print (XS), but this style dress comes in a lot of different prints, colors and patterns! 

Here are all the options below: 

Second, I wanted to share this kimono that I got recently. I'm obviously on a kimono kick and I love that you can dress them up or down and even use them as a cover up! This one caught my eye with the pretty, contrasting floral print and the tassel detailing on the hem. 

shorts - on sale! | wedges - on sale! | v-neck tee

APRIL FAVORITES

I wanted to share with you all the favorites from April in a separate post this week, but time go away from me! So, I'll go ahead and quickly share them here...

In the month of April, these cropped, chewed hem jeans were the most clicked on item (and a handful of you bought them!). These are definitely my favorite pair of jeans currently. I just love the wash and the crop style chewed hem. 

And if you didn't know, LOFT is currently running a sale for mother's day offering 30% off everything + an extra 10% off your order with code: LOVEMOM

So, basically my entire outfit below is on sale!

kimono - 40% off! | cami - 40% off! | jeans - 40% off! | block heel pumps - less than $30 | monogram necklace

This $15 kimono was the most purchased item from the month of April! And for good reason! The price is just right and you can't beat 2-day free shipping!

$15 kimono | cami - 40% off! | high waisted leggings | sandals | bamboo bag | monogram necklace | $10 sunglasses 

Some other favorites from last month were this palm print one piece, this $10 racer back bralette and my favorite long sleeve tee (I have it in 3 colors now!).

GIVEAWAYS!

Lastly, I wanted to remind you of a few giveaways that are currently happening! 

First, have you entered in this awesome giveaway on my instagram?!

I'm co-hosting with 9 other IG mamas and it ends tomorrow (Sat 5/12) at 8pm! If you haven't entered yet, head to my instagram feed and find this pic for details on how to enter!

Also, my giveaway with Smile Brilliant has been extended through the end of the month! If you haven't entered to win your own custom teeth whitening system (which is what I've been using and I've had GREAT results!) there's still time!

You can go HERE for my original post with my review of my Smile Brilliant custom teeth whitening system.

OR you can just click this link HERE and fill out the info requested to enter in the giveaway!

I hope you all have a fantastic Mother's Day weekend! 

xoxo

Spring & Summer Capsule Series | Vol. 1 (Tees)

If you caught my instastories earlier in the week, you know I've been working on cleaning out, editing and organizing my closet for spring. The first step was to go through everything and pick out items that I haven't worn in over a year that are still in good condition and try to sell them. I have a poshmark account (find me @lindsllstyling) and I've had some success selling my gently used, still in good condition clothes and accessories at some second hand stores here in town. Once that is done, I usually will donate all clothes that are left that I no longer wear or need. Once I paired down my clothing items to the stuff I actually wear, I started organizing everything by season. I put the spring, summer stuff on the side that is easily accessible and put all my fall/winter stuff on another side. I also went through all my accessories, handbags, shoes and jewelry the same way. 

In doing this, I was able to take some inventory of what I had in my closet already for the spring and summer seasons and what I needed to add to my 'wish' list. I was going to list out everything in one post, but I realized it would be lengthy, so I decided to break out everything into categories. 

For this first edition of my Spring/Summer capsule series, I'm going to talk about tee shirts! These are staples in my closet and I feel like you can never have too many comfortable, soft, easy to throw on t-shirts!

A few of my favorite t-shirts that I purchased last year were this Lush v-neck (I have the grey color in size MED, but probably could have done a SM), these Caslon rounded v-neck tees (size small, these run big) and this BP Raw Edge V-neck tee (in SM, run TTS). You may have noticed that all of these are from Nordstrom. And that is intentional! When it comes to a t-shirt, you might think 'why would I spend more money on a t-shirt?!' and my answer to that is because you wear them all the time! I have a few t shirts that I have purchased from Target or Old Navy and to be honest, they start to look bad after just a few times in the wash! AND, as always Nordstrom always offers free shipping and returns!

This Lush tee says 'dry clean only' which is silly. You do not need to dry clean this tee! I simply put it in the washing machine on delicate and flat or line dry. Easy peasy! And this one I probably wear most often!! It is so soft and has stayed soft and new looking for almost a year!

These Caslon tees are also a great staple and I will most likely buy a few more colors this year! I bought a few different striped versions last year and I'm loving the new patterns this season! The rounded v-neck is perfect too because it still has the flattering shape of a v-neck, but isn't too deep that you feel like you are 'exposed'! Nothing worse than hanging around with toddlers that like to pull at your shirt or when you bend over to pick them up and you feel like everything is hanging out lol! 

I love how soft and light weight these BP Raw Edge v-neck tees are and I'm loving all the new, bright colors for spring! I bought this one last year in a light pink color and wear it so much! I may have to snag this one in black and another bright color to wear with my white jeans. 

There you have it! My top pics for tees! I'm hoping to share a new volume of this series each week with a new staple item for spring/summer. 

Let me know in the comments what your staple items are for spring and summer!

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Target Try On! (2-21-18)

If you follow my instastories, you know that I stopped into Target yesterday for a little try on session. As promised, I wanted to post everything here on the blog so it's easier for you all to shop! The purpose of a try on session is to take the work out of it for you!! You can see what these items look like on a REAL person and not a model with some fancy photoshopped background. My sizes are listed below for reference and I will tell you how each item fits (true to size, runs small/big, etc). All (affiliate) links to items will be directly under the photos or you can shop from the widget at the bottom of the post. 

Most of the items I tried on are from Target's new brand, Universal Thread. It kind of reminds me of a Madewell or Abercrombie with the muted tones and boho/casual style. Some items I loved and others, I wasn't fond of... But, most of what I tried on I really liked! So, here are a few winners below...

FOR SIZE REFERENCE:

I am 5'2"

I wear a 4/6 pants or 27/28 jeans

I typically wear a small in tops, but may size up to a medium for fit if it is a button up

So, without further ado... Here are my iphone photo, horrible dressing room lighting, try on session pics in all their glory!

Outfit 1: I loved this button up! It says it's 'red' as the color on the website, but it definitely is a pink and white stripe. I love that you can tie it in the front for a fun look too! It would be really cute for spring with white jeans or shorts as well! I am wearing a size small in the top. 

I also LOVE these dark wash jeggings! I am wearing a size 6 short here, but could probably go with the regular length, so I would say they run true to size. They are SO soft and comfy! Feel like leggings and look like jeans! 

I'm also wearing these booties (run true to size) in all the photos which are so cute and a perfect transition shoe into spring! 

(pink stripe button up | dark wash jeggings | booties)

Outfit 2: Probably my favorite and all of these items I will most likely purchase! I love how soft this button up plaid shirt is! It's also not heavy fabric, so it could definitely transition into spring and would look so cute with white jeans! I am wearing a size medium here (they didn't have any smalls) and I actually like the oversized fit of this one!

Wearing the same jeggins and booties as above...

(plaid  button up | dark wash jeggings | booties)

Outfit 3: I love how soft this denim shirt is and I love it paired with these pink jeans.  I am wearing a size small in the top, but probably would size up to a medium for a better fit. I LOVE these pink raw hem skinny jeans! They are high waisted too, which is a plus! I am wearing a size 8 in the photo below (they didn't have my size) so, I would probably order my true size 6 in these (runs true to size).

(denim shirt | pink high waisted raw hem skinny jeans | booties)

Outfit 4: I was skeptical of the tie front cropped sweater, but after trying it on I am a believer! This sweater is so soft! And I actually love the tie front detail as well!

(tie front sweater | dark wash jeggings | booties)

Outfit 5: Moving on from the Universal Thread line, I came across this cute little tank! I love how soft it is (I obviously love soft clothes apparently 😂) And perfect for the gym, running errands or just lounging! I also love it paired with this cropped zip up hoodie and my high waisted zella leggings!

('sippin on gym  juice' tank | cropped hoodie | high waisted leggings)

Outfit 6 & 7: Both of these outfits are totally out of my comfort zone! I thought I would give them a try and you know what... I actually like them both! I think kimonos will be the new 'cardigan' of spring for me! And I'm loving this bell sleeved embroidered top! Would be so cute with white jeans for spring too! I am wearing a size small in all tops and XS/S the kimono.

(Left outfit: bell sleeved embroidered top | pink high waisted jeans | booties)

(Right outfit: floral kimono | white v-neck tee | dark wash jeggings | booties)

Outfit 8: Last but certainly not least, I grabbed this dress last minute as it caught my eye! I was a little skeptical with the off the shoulder (sometimes I think off the shoulder can be a bit annoying), but I was pleasantly surprised when I tried this little number on! I love the bell sleeves and the cinched waist! I thought it went well with the booties too. Would be so cute for Easter! 

(dress | booties)

Of course, I didn't love everything I tried on... So, I will leave you with a few 'misses' ....

Believe it or not, these 2 tie front tops are all the range with a lot of other fashion bloggers... They just didn't do it for me! Could be because I have a short torso and wide hips, so this style isn't necessarily the most flattering on my body type. I also only found an XS in the plaid top and probably needed a small for better fit. The distressed high waisted shorts probably would have been better if I sized up! I'm wearing my normal size 6 in these and they were too tight and short for my liking! 

(Left outfit: stripe tie front top | distressed high waisted shorts)

(Right outfit: plaid tie front top | dark wash jeggings | booties)

Phew! That was a lot! I hope you liked this post and that you found it helpful when shopping online with Target!

This post was in NO way sponsored, by the way. I just love these types of posts and follow a lot of bloggers on instagram that do these 'try on sessions' on their stories and I always find it so helpful when trying to shop online. 

Do you like this type of post? Please let me know in the comments below and I will keep doing them if this one is a hit!

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Favorite One Pieces under $50!

Hey, friends! This is totally a last minute post that was not planned ahead of time, but I had some friends ask about some one pieces for up coming trips, so I thought it would be good to share on the blog as well! Plus, I am starting to really get excited for my upcoming girls trip to Puerto Plata in early June and I'm starting to scope out all the best swim suits for the trip.

First of all, Target is having a great sale on swim wear right now! When you buy one, you get the second swim suit for 50% off! So, now is the time to stock up on your favorite styles. Also, I've rounded up a few of my favorites from Amazon that are also less than $50. Just FYI, I always size up for bathing suits especially because I'm a little on the 'busty' side (so, I usually order a medium in suits).

affiliate links below (left to right)

top row: one | two | three

middle row: four | five | six

bottom row: seven | eight | nine

So many cute styles online this year! There are 2 in the round up above that I own and love. I bought #4 and #9 last summer and I love them both! I got a size medium for both and they fit pretty well! Number 4 is great for those of you (like me) that are a little on the 'busty' side and need a bit more coverage in that area. And number 9 is a good one as well! I might even have to get that one in black this year! 

Both Target and Amazon offer free shipping (for Target card holders and Amazon prime members) and free returns, so I love ordering from both of these sites! 

Which ones are your favorites?

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2 Casual Valentine's Day Outfits

v-neck sweater | distressed jeans | leopard clutch | pink tassel earrings ($10 on sale!) | heart sunnies ($10 on sale!) | monogram necklace

So, I totally contemplated not publishing this post bc a) you can totally tell I'm using a remote with my camera (I had a shoot scheduled this day, but my friend and photographer had to cancel last minute...so I DIY'd them!) and b) my hair was a mess in the bottom photos bc it was so windy! BUT, my love for outfit and style sharing far surpasses my pride so what the heck!

I wanted to share a few casual outfit options for Valentine's Day. Bill and I don't have anything fancy planned for Valentine's Day and we usually don't go over the top with celebrating. We typically just have dinner at home, maybe exchange small gifts. If I'm lucky he might bring me home some fresh flowers 😉

Instead of going with the traditional red and pink outfits for V-day, I decided to put together a few neutral looks that are easy everyday outfits with some fun and festive accessories. This v-neck sweater has been one of my favorite purchases from last winter. I wear it so often and it was definitely worth the price! It's so soft and light weight! AND long enough to wear with leggings!

I'm wearing these jeans that I actually distressed myself, but this pair is almost an identical match if you don't feel like distressing them yourself. You can't tell in the photos, but I'm wearing these faux suede nude pumps that were a recent Target purchase (you guys know I love my Target shoes!), which I think helps to 'dress up' this outfit. 

My favorite part about both of these outfits are my fun accessories! I picked up these pink tassel earrings (that are currently on sale for $11!) while at Target recently (go figure) and I love how lightweight they are! I also snagged these cute heart sunglasses (currently $10!) from a recent trip to Old Navy with V-day on my mind! 

This outfit would be an easy one to take from daytime/casual work wear to date night! This blouse is on sale now and I snagged it as soon as I saw it online (also comes in a few other colors)! I love the belled sleeves and relaxed fit of this blouse. 

blouse | high waisted skinny jeans (these are seriously the best!) | riding boots | leopard clutch | pink tassel earrings | heart sunnies | monogram necklace

Don't mind my crazy wind blown hair in those last few photos! Oh, what we endure to take an outfit photo! 😂

Do you celebrate Valentine's Day? Do you like to get fancy and dress up or go casual? Share with me in the comments below!

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Save v. Splurge | Spring Shoes

I know what you are thinking... 'Lindsay, there's still snow on the ground... how can you be thinking about spring?' First, I feel like every year these cute new spring styles sell out of sizes so quickly! And second, I really just want something to help bring me out of my winter funk... So, let's look at some pretty shoes, shall we? I'm all about the designer dupes when it comes to trendy shoe styles. I'm not about to drop 3 figures on a pair of trendy slides or mules if I feel like they will only be on trend for a year or 2. Target is one place that I always look to for cheap budget friendly versions of the trendy shoe styles of today. I actually just purchased this pair the moment I saw them online! I was lusting after this pair last summer (and even pulled the trigger on a pair during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale, only for them to go on back order. So, I ended up canceling my order) and was so bummed when I didn't get them. Moral of the story, now is the time to snag those cute shoes for spring!

Affiliate Links: block heel black sandals (save option | splurge option)
nude patent pumps (save option | splurge option)
pointed toe black flats (save option | splurge option)
pointed toe neutral flats (save option - these are in my shopping cart right now! | splurge option)
black loafer mule (save option | splurge option!)
ankle booties (save option | splurge option)
peep toe, block heel booties (save option - just ordered these! | splurge option)

A shoe for all occasions! And kept it pretty neutral with the black and nude tones. All of these styles seem to be on trend for spring but I have my eye on those pointed toe loafers for my next purchase!

Which style is your favorite? Do you save or splurge on shoes?

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Faves Under $50 | Vol. 1

Happy Tuesday, friends! By IG stories vote, this post won over 'winter essentials' ... However, I still have a winter essentials post in the works, so stay tuned for that one! This year one of my main goals is to focus more on our household monthly budget. One of the areas that I need a little (ok, a lot of) help with is my shopping habit budget. I want to be able to continue shopping for myself, but I'm making sure the items I buy are under a certain dollar amount AND are high quality pieces. I still believe less is more and quality over quantity. But, you can never have too many cute tops to chose from... Am I right? 😉   I've seen a few other bloggers share these 'faves under $50' posts and I decided to jump on the band wagon!

Here are some of my current favorite style pieces under $50...

one || two || three || four || five || six || seven

All of these are currently on my wish list (and most are on sale!), but a few stand outs are this tie neck sweater (how cute?!), these tassel earrings in the prettiest pink shade, and this pretty pink tunnel neck tunic. I know I always rave about my high waist zella leggings, but I've actually heard great things about these high waist leggings that are a fraction of the cost! I have this leopard clutch, but I love this one because it folds over and looks easier to carry. And I'm in need of a new pair of slippers and this pair looks so cozy!

Which one is your favorite?

I hope you all are having a great week so far! Happy shopping!

Motherhood Lately + The Perfect Fall Shirtdress

shirtdress (comes in 2 other solid colors. Plaid options here) | riding boots | necklace

Motherhood lately has been so fun! Exhausting...but, fun. I love that the boys are just starting to be at the age where they are starting to play with each other and like the same things. There's still a bit of a communication gap and of course I'm constantly playing referee with the toy tug-o-war. BUT, it is fun to see them laugh and play together. 

Camden is now almost 3 (he will be 3 on November 20th!) and Bennett will be 16 months on the 28th. I am so excited for the upcoming holiday season with these two. Having a one year old and a 3 year old at Christmas time will be so magical! I feel like this will be the first year Camden will actually 'get' the concept of Santa and Christmas morning. I can't wait to see their faces light up that day!!

Of course, it's not all rainbows and butterflies all the time. These ages... they are TOUGH! Bennett is just starting to show his toddler personality. Testing his limits, trying to get into everything he shouldn't, throwing his sippy cup and food on the floor... How quickly we forget about this stage! He is also SO stubborn (which I know he get from his father!). He wants to walk everywhere and goes straight towards the street when we are outside. When I try to hold his hand, he slaps my hand away as if to say 'I don't need your help!' He wants to do everything on his own! 

He's also starting to reach for all the door handles in the house which Camden just recently figured out so it's funny that Bennett is already doing this! Bennett has also cut a total of 6 teeth in the past few months and is currently working on his k9 teeth (the sharp ones on top). The drool has been non-stop! 

However, with those challenging times comes one of my favorite stages! Bennett loves to dance and whenever there is music playing he starts shaking his little hips back and forth! It's probably my favorite thing to watch! He also is so funny and loves to giggle! He is just starting to instigate wrestling with his brother which is so cute! They just roll around on each other and laugh!

He is also much more cuddly at this age than I remember Camden being. Especially right before bedtime and after naps, he just melts in my arms and I soak up every ounce of it! He also loves to blow kisses and says 'muaw!' when we say give me a kiss! It's the best! He is also up to saying over a dozen words! His little voice is so cute and I love that he wants to communicate with us!

Camden is also starting to creep slowly to that 'three-nager' phase I've been hearing about. He is constantly asking questions and wants to know about everything! He also still thinks all the toys in the house are his and Bennett is just borrowing them 😂

We are about 50/50 with the potty training situation, but he does really well at 'school' so I know he's ready. I think it's time for potty training boot camp one these next few weekends since we don't have too many plans. I was hoping to get him trained by the time he turns 3, so we've got a month!

Along with his 'three-nager' attitude, he also says some of the sweetest things! He will randomly look up at me and say 'you look pretty mommy!' 😊  I don't know who taught him how to say that, but I'll take it! And sometimes after I pick him up from school he will say, 'I missed you mommy!' which just melts my heart into a puddle everytime!

Both boys are on the same schedule now, only taking one nap in the middle of the day. It makes things SOOO much easier especially with planning out our day. We typically always go on an outing in the mornings when we are home. Even if it's just getting them outside to get some exercise. I love that we live across the street from a playground! That is definitely one of the main reasons we purchased our home. 

As cliché as the saying is, it is so true...

Yes, the days are looooong, but the years are SHORT! 

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How to Dress for Family Photos

Hey guys! I've been thinking about writing this post for a little while and I thought now was a great time since it's usually about the time everyone is preparing to have family photos taken for their holiday cards. I know I am hoping to get ours done by the end of the month too. Now, I will preface this by saying that we've only had our photos taken professionally twice as a family and the first time it was with just Camden. But, I feel like I have some good experience when it comes to dressing our family in a way that is simple and complimentary, which usually shows best in photos.

1. Colors : I always like to stick to a group of 3-4 colors that are complimentary of each other. Whether it's warm tones, or complimentary bold, gem tones or pastels. Just as long as the colors blend well together. For example, for our fist family photo session I wore a solid burgundy colored blouse with dark jeans and taupe booties. Bill wore a chambray button up shirt and dark jeans. Camden wore a burgundy and white buffalo check shirt and jeans. I wanted to plan our outfits around Camden's shirt because I was most excited for his cute little outfit! So, my top and his shirt didn't clash because they were similar in color. We all had similar dark colored jeans and I feel as though denim is pretty neutral.

photos by Jenny Beck Photography

We had a similar color grouping for our second year of family photos. I included navy, grey, denim and some neutral tones. I knew I wanted to wear my pink, navy and white plaid blanket scarf with my navy swing dress, so I dressed the boys complimentary of my outfit.

photos by Lindsay Chan Photography

2. Patterns : I think one difficult factor of dressing a family is making sure there aren't too many competing patterns or textures. I'm sure if I had a daughter, I'd want to dress her in all sorts of pretty patterns, lace and ruffles! If you have a certain outfit that you know you want one person to wear for photos, then I would dress everyone else around that particular outfit. So if your daughter is wearing a pretty floral patterned dress, maybe have everyone else in solid colors that compliment or neutral tones. If you have one person in a big bold print and someone else in a pattern, it may not look complimentary to have them together in a photo.

photo by Lindsay Chan Photography

For our family photos last year, I wore a plaid blanket scarf and Bennett wore a gingham button up shirt. I felt like these two prints didn't clash because the colors of Bennett's shirt complimented my scarf and the gingham print was small and more muted.

Here is another example of pattern mixing, but staying relatively in the same color palette. we took some family photos during our family trip to the Outer Banks in July and I chose the color palette of light blues, grey, tan, etc. Bennett was wearing plaid shorts and I was wearing a blue and white pinstripe dress. I don't think the two patterns clashed because my pinstripe dress was a more muted, two toned pattern.

last two photos by me!

I think you can still mix some texture and prints as long as the texture (say, lace for example) is a solid color that compliments one color of the patterned outfit. Neutrals (cream/white, denim, tan/khaki, grey, etc) can be thrown in to help fill in some color gaps.

3. Dress for the season : This tip is pretty obvious and doesn't need a whole lot of explaining. If you are planning to use your family photos for holiday cards, you should want to make sure everyone is dressed in fall/winter clothes (ie. long sleeves, sweaters, pants, etc). The main point being is to make sure the family is all dressed for the same season.

Here's an example I put together of a family of 4 with a son and a daughter:

Shop the collage below:

What are your tips when it comes to dressing for family photos? 

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