Christmas Trees!

Everyone has their own Christmas Tree traditions. Real, faux, tall, small, white lights, colorful lights. Since most of us are single, live in apartments, and poor it's a little tough to have our own beautiful Christmas trees. Here's a few whether it be our parents, or our creative ways of having our very own.

By {Morgan}

I have a little, faux Christmas tree. I bought it at Pottery Barn in 2011. It is potted and the bottom is wrapped in burlap. It was perfect for my one bedroom apartment in Connecticut. My apartment didn't have any extra closet or storage space, so it lived in the back of my car or at work for 11 months out of the year.

This year, I moved into a house and have more space...but I did not get around to getting bigger tree. I still love this little guy. It will be a part of my Christmas decor for years to come {even if it loses it's 'main tree' status}. 

Here is a look back at 3 DIY ways I've adorned my little potted tree. 

By {Amy}

My only Christmas tree this year!

By {Molly}

Slightly blurry picture but this is my parents tree in Wichita. Sunflower topper and everything! Thankfully we had a white Christmas this year! Unthankfully, I got in a wreck on my way home thanks to the ice and won't have a car for 3 weeks... more wine please!

Don't I look so innocent?

xoxo,

Amy, Morgan, & Molly

Holiday Cocktail

If you are hosting a party you should always have a signature cocktail.  So when your guest walks in the door and you ask them what they want to drink, you don't get the long "ummmm".  Instead you have something to hand to them to sip on while they ponder their next concoction to imbibe.  When deciding on a cocktail make sure it is something that is very quick and easy to make.  I never want to spend the whole evening making cocktails for everyone.

I recently did this one at a small party and it went over really well.  I used EG Rosemary and Lavendar vodka, Welch's Lite White Grape Juice, and Prosecco.  The EG Rosemary and Lavendar vodka can be hard to find, so you can infuse your own or just use plain vodka.

In a glass over ice mix one park vodka and one part white grape juice.  Add one part Prosecco to the top of the cocktail and finish with a rosemary garnish.  Don't skimp on the garnishes it is what makes the drink look impressive.  Watch out this one will get you if you are not careful!

UnHoliday Holiday Playlist

It's the Holiday's and we all know what that means. Travel. Whether you are going by plane, train, or automobile there's one thing you need for your trip. Good tunes. Nothings worse than being stuck in no where Oklahoma with only country stations {yuck}.

Follow my Spotify playlist and get a dose of music for your trip, where ever you're going. If you think one song seems out of place, I'm going to let you in on a dirty little secret of mine. The mystery song is one of my favorite songs of all time {guiltiest pleasure ever..}.

The Wild Feathers :: The Ceiling

The Rubens :: My Gun

Alt-J :: Breezeblocks

Tuka :: Just to Feel Wanted

Bright Light Social Hour :: Back & Forth

Crash Kings :: It's Only Wednesday

Cosmo Jarvis :: Love This

Black Taxi :: Tightrope

Shovels & Ropes :: Birmingham

Mariah Carey :: All I Want For Christmas Is You

Don't judge me... you know you kind of love the last song. Follow this playlist and the rest of my Spotify for ever changing music picks and playlists.

xoxo,

Molly

Holiday Party Dresses

It's party season people.  As fun as the holiday season can be, it can also be very stressful.  Some stress-triggers include: lack of self-control around various cakes and cookies, a little too much family time {you know what I mean}, and of course, not having anything to wear to holiday parties.

These parties are by far the most fun thing to dress for in my opinion.  We are allowed to be glittery and a little over-the-top which {let's be honest} is so much fun.  My mom has been throwing an annual Christmas party since I was little and it's something that I really look forward to.  But damn if I don't do the same thing EVERY year and wait until the very last minute to get a dress.

Well this year will be different {at least I hope so}.  Below are some serious contenders one of which  will be THE dress.  Scroll through and see if you find one you love.

Favorite Stocking Stuffers

By {Monica}

Over the years, I've found that my taste in gift size has shrunk drastically. Case in point, my favorite gifts by age:

5 - Barbie Power Wheels convertible

10 - rollerblades

16 - this amazing Justin Timberlake cd

20 - my first nice purse

25 - diamond earrings

So in honor of those little packages that make sticking your hand into an old sock on Christmas morning exciting, a list of some of my favorites...

Eiffel tower bottle opener

Lancôme holiday brush set

Bath & Body Works aromatherapy pillow spray

Kendra Scott "Danielle" earrings

Kiehl's lip balm set

Holiday Antlers

By {Morgan}

Since starting my blog, Pink Antlers, my antler collection has grown and grown. 

I love it.

Some antlers are real, collected from the fields of family {antlered animals shed their antlers each year, mid-December to mid-February is considered 'shed hunting season' for deer, elk & moose -wikipedia}.

Some antlers/deer heads that I have are in the form of cardboard or metal {'retail hunting' season is year-round}.

I'm always looking for inspiration on how to decorate with them. The Holidays are the perfect time to use antlers in your home decor. The rustic vibe creates a warm & cozy ambiance. 

{Holiday Antler Inspiration via Pinterest}

Know an antler lover? Here's some awesome antler gifts in stores now!

{The white, antler ceramic pitcher pictured with my home decor is also available @ Anthropologie}

Peace, Love & Antlers,
Morgan

Trunk Show Treasures {Chloe + Isabel}

By {Monica}

This is a series of 3 posts from TSPers Whitney, Monica, and Molly. You'll see our favorite pieces from the Holiday collection of Chloe + Isabel. Check out Kindal Baki's C + I Facebook page, and site for more goodies and 12 days of deals!

via

My first Chloe + Isabel shopping experience was last month, and oh my was it fun to try on the beautiful baubles and drink wine in the comfort of a friend’s home. I had seen these earrings online earlier in the day {everyone researches before trunk shows, right?} and was so pleased that they were even prettier in real life.  They arrived on my doorstep three days later {!} and the compliments just keep rolling in {!!}.

Shop the whole collection here!

Cheers to Our Own!

By {All of Us}

We are beyond thrilled to announce the engagement of one of our very own and very funny TSP writers and editor, Casey!

It's safe to say this is going to be a wedding to top all others and we can't wait to help you and Curtis celebrate fully, and with lot's of champagne.

Congrats!

xoxo,

All of Us at TSP!

P.S. Don't be mad we stole this picture off your Facebook... 

Glamour Like Gatsby {Chloe + Isabel}

By {Whitney}

This is a series of 3 posts from TSPers Whitney, Monica, and Molly. You'll see our favorite pieces from the Holiday collection of Chloe + Isabel. Check out Kindal Baki's C + I Facebook page, and site for more goodies and 12 days of deals!

The Roaring 20s were such a devastatingly beautiful era in fashion.  Jewel tones, fringe, dropped waists and geometric prints galore!  Ever since the movie "Great Gatsby" made its way back on the big screen this summer, I've been chomping at the bit to find similar retro-treasures.  The fashion-forward jewelry of Chloe + Isabel have a variety of pieces that Miss Daisy Buchanan herself would adorn.

Check out a few of my favorites:

Deco Cascade Statement Collar Necklace

Crystal Fan Statement Stud Earrings

Jardins du Trocadero Pave Wrap Bracelet

Of course, no blog from me would be complete without a little post about libations as well!  Gatsby knew how to throw one hell of a party.  I may not know what is in Jay Gatsby's glass in the pic below but he sure looks tasty…and I'm sure whatever is in his glass is too!

Cheers!

Fizzy/Angry/Balls

By {Morgan}

I am no mixologist, but I do love throwing together a fun drink when I'm having people over. I'll usually make a big batch and put it in a beverage dispenser, but there were only 3 of us gathering to watch The Sound of Music live on NBC last week, so I used pint & 1/2 wide mouthed mason jars.

The drink to get us through 3 hours of missing Julie Andrews and cinematography ... 

Fizzy Angry Balls ... adapted from Angry Balls.
I love whiskey, I love cinnamon and I love hard cider, so Angry Balls is on my frequently ordered list.
To give it a few bubbles and perhaps make it a little more 'week night' friendly, I topped it off with 7 Up.

For 3 {pint & 1/2} drinks I used {an undetermined amount of} Fireball Whiskey, 3 bottles of {Apple Ginger} Angry Orchard hard cider, 1 can of {diet} 7 Up.

Add ice & Fireball

Add Angry Orchard

Top with 7 Up

Screw on lids, pretend you're a Coyote Ugly bartender ... and shake it

Adorn with {also shaken} mini Christmas ornaments and name tags

Chill in refrigerator, serve and enjoy!

***

To make the ornaments, I removed the top of a mini, clear glass ornament {purchased at Joann's}, dripped in a small amount of paint, covered the hole with a paper towel and my finger and shook. Insert the top back on and you're done!
For the name tags I used shipping tags, washi tape, the j. crew holiday stamp and tied it to the mason jar with baker's twine.

Peace, Love and Angry Balls,
Morgan

Sweet & Savory Sandwiches

By {Casey}

I'm not a great cook. I take that back. I'm a horrible cook. I try, I really do! Somehow the recipe I find never quite looks or tastes the way it should. I watch Top Chef, Hell's Kitchen, and any other cooking competition show I can squeeze into my not-so-busy schedule. The thing is, I see someone make a delicious beer cheese soup and think to myself, "Well shit! I have beer and cheese!" Apparently, heating up Natty Light & Velveeta Cheese on the stove doesn't have quite the same look, taste, texture...{I'm sorry for making you try this CO}.

I have finally found something that's quick, easy, and delicious.
Check out these strawberry, goat cheese and arugula sandwiches!

I found this recipe in a random Hy-Vee magazine that was sent to my house I normally would toss in the trash. It looked pretty, and I loved everything in the ingredients section so I gave it a whirl. I recommend making these when you are short on time, but need to impress. {Think friends coming over for an impromptu brunch, family stopping by unannounced...etc}. It took me 5 minutes to make 2 of these. Carbs, goat cheese, strawberries...what's not to love?

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar 
• 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard 
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Pinch of Salt & Pepper
• 4 ounces soft honey goat cheese 
• 4 English Muffins
• 1 cup arugula leaves
• 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
• 4 teaspoons sliced green onions

Directions:

• To prepare vinaigrette, in a small bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, salt & pepper; set aside.
• Spread 1 tablespoon {or more} goat cheese on each English Muffin. Top with arugula, strawberries and green onion. Drizzle Vinaigrette over sandwiches.

I'm not one to improvise, as that usually ends up in a beer cheese soup scenario {should've used Bud Light}...however there are so many ways to make this if you don't have certain ingredients in your kitchen. Ex: I used ground mustard instead of whole grain mustard, regular balsamic vinegar rather than white, and you can use spinach, blueberries and feta cheese if you want to go another route! The possibilities are endless. Enjoy!

Gifting Ideas {Little Ones... Girls Edition}

By {Molly}

I have 3 nieces {plus 2 nephews} and I know it can be impossible to find something their mom and dad, grandparents, or other aunts and uncles aren't already getting them for Christmas. So what do you get the girl who literally already has everything? I usually stick to my guns and only buy them things that either mean something to me, will mean something to them, or that their mom would never buy them {sorry sisters...}. That way they are more likely to remember who gave it to them.

My goal is to give them something special they will remember for years to come! Even if the toy isn't special, maybe it's something you play with them every time you come over, even when they're too young for it. Or it's something you wrote a very special not to them in that they will only fully appreciate when they are older.  Little touches can make even something picked up at Target extra special!

1. Who doesn't want a fuzzy cozy fleece onesie? I would sleep in that.

2. Unless you aren't around kids, ever, or have been under a rock you have heard about Rainbow Looms. Most kids already have one but if they don't they need one ASAP. They are bracelet making kids using small rubber bands {think braces size}. Sound lame? Well it's even cool for 11 year old boys to do it... so it's not.

3. I stumbled on this camera and instantly fell in love. It's from a company called Bigshot. The great thing about it is that you build the camera yourself and learn all about how they work. Then you have a digital camera to spark your photography skills.

4. I want a tutu dress... what girl of any age doesn't?

5. It's been proven time and again that learning music helps with so many other aspects of learning. Start them off young with a pink guitar!

6. And a glittery headband. I stole borrowed one of these from my 7 year old niece Anna a few years ago. She never got it back... it's now my New Years Eve accessory. Maybe it's time to replace hers?

7. Goldie Blox is revolutionizing the toys we buy for little girls. They are focused more on learning engineering skills. At first I thought, well that sounds boring. They tailor made them so that they are things girls are still interested in. My niece is getting some for Christmas already from her mom and I have to say I can't wait to play with them!

8. I mean this is what I'm getting all three of my nieces.... obviously.

9. I love the fact that this book is always given as a graduation gift. Why not start it off early? It's such a great inspiring book wrapped up in a pretty colorful package.

xoxo,
Molly

Living Social

By {Casey}

I hope by now you all have found Living Social, a website similar to Groupon giving "deals-of-the-day". I still subscribe to both, and have found there are some truly great gift ideas on here! Yes, we always get way too many emails, especially this time of year. I recommend snuggling up in a fuzzy blanket on the couch while your TV is set on another Bravo marathon, and looking through all the deals on Living Social. Here are a few of my current favorites. Be warned, the deals don't last forever! {Wow, could I have sounded more like a sales-y skank?}

1. Personalized Coasters - $15 for 4
I think this is a great idea for almost anyone on your list. Boyfriend/Girlfriend, Parents, Grandparents, Siblings...add a picture of you and them on a coaster and they are sure to love it. These make great housewarming gifts as well!

Photo found at Shutterfly

2. Suzy Kuzy Beer Mit - $10

This beer koozie/glove comes in 5 colors and screams perfect gift for my dad. All the men in my life, {boyfriend, brother, dad, grandpa} love grilling outside and drinking beer. I can think of nothing that would suit them better than being able to drink outside in the bitter cold with a beer mit.

3. Photo Wall Calendar - $5 for 1 

This is the best deal for a photo calendar I think I've ever seen. I would love one of these! {Hint hint}. I make one for my Mom almost every year, and she cries every time. Use pictures of you, your family, your pets, etc. This is the best gift for the sentimental sap in your family.

Photo found at Vistaprint

4. Bath & Body Works - Free 30% off

Couldn't get any better. This is just a free coupon for 30% off! All you have to do is claim the offer on LivingSocial. You have to do it in store by December 13th. There are tons of items to choose from, but my personal favorite is the Fresh Balsam candle. Makes your house smell like Christmas all the time!

Hope this helps you with your shopping!

Emails & Online Shopping & Deals! Oh My!

By {Morgan}

I want to share my favorite daily shop emails with you just in time for Christmas shopping. I highly recommend signing up for them, even if you feel like you already receive too much 'junk mail'. To be honest, I don't open each of these every day ... but when I do, I always enjoy browsing, gathering ideas & inspiration, and love it when I find a good deal or one of a kind piece.
There's definitely something for everyone on your Christmas list in these shops!

These online shops feature different items every day. There's art, home decor, jewelry, kitchen gadgets, toys, furniture, bedding, luggage ... a little bit of everything.

The two largest {in terms of items per day} are Joss & Main and One Kings Lane.

Joss & Main

"For those who delight in discovery, the thrill of the find, and a daily dose of design inspiration, Joss & Main is a premier members-only site that offers limited-time sales on the world's best brands for your home and life." Joss and Main - About Us 

One Kings Lane 

"Because Design Is a Journey…
Every day, we launch new sales offering exceptional
value on top-brand, vintage, and designer items. Most sales
last 72 hours. Be sure to shop early (and often)!" One Kings Lane - About Us

{a few fun finds @ One Kings Lane}

If you love independent stores - this next online shop is for you!

Scoutmob

Shoppe: "We're promoting independent artisans, craftsmen, designers and the like--giving you access to their inspired goods and authentic creations alongside the vision and the passionate processes that make them special. there are the things that add personality to our homes, stories to our lives and that "awww, you're so thoughtful" sentiment to our gift-givings." Scoutmob - About Us

Local: "We set out to explore the unique, the local, the downright curious desitnations that make a city great by way of our sweet mobile incentives, under-the-radar events, and intel from our on-the-ground Scouts. Basically, it's everything that makes you think, "You know what? This city is #&$%ing awesome!"" Scoutmob - About Us

How cool is that?!?
{sneak peak @ Scoutmob}

The following 2 shops feature 1 {or 2} deals of the day. Items are usually over 50% off original prices.

Pick Your Plum 

New deals are posted at 7:00 am MST everyday. These 2 deals that were posted this week.

Both printed delivery boxes and alphabet stamps were only $4.99 / 58% and 66% off!
Items range from party & craft supplies to hats, jewelry & scarves.
Pick Your Plum is a great email to watch if you are getting ready for a party.
{think paper straws, wooden utensils, gift bags}

The Plaid Barn

This online shop emails out a deal of the day and also has items listed under accessories, kits and supplies available on the website.
This Aztec Sweater was posted for 61% off and FREE SHIPPING ... for only $26.99

And my newest find is Antique Farm House.

They have multiple sales every day on the website.
Check out their featured gift wrapping station. My heart swoons.

Visit the sites and sign-up for the daily emails. When you find that perfect gift or item for your home, it will make overloading your inbox worth it!

Peace, Love & Online Shopping,
Morgan

Holiday Gifting {Under $50}

By {Molly}

Faux Fur Blanket // Wine & Champagne Glasses // Hola TShirt // Jewelry Dish // Earrings // 

iPad Case // Locals Only Coffee Table Book // Candle // Scarf // Clutch

xoxo,

Molly

Holiday Hostess Gifts

By {Amy}

It is that time of year for Holidays and the Holiday parties!  This is the best time of year and so much fun to celebrate with your closest family and friends.  Everyone knows that you can never show up empty handed.  Since I am traveling to go to these events, normally on planes, bottles of wines and baked goods will not cut it.  So here are a few of my favorite things to give. Hope this helps!

These are some of my favorite spices.  You can pretty much put them on anything to make it taste delicious, but best of all you can just add them to olive oil and have an enhanced bread dipping sauce.  I normally use a baguette or go to Jimmy John's and buy the day old bread, it is only $.99 and wonderful for dipping.  Believe me, it's delicious and a nice easy appetizer for your host to have on hand.  If you want to add a little something extra, pair with a nice bottle of olive oil.  When buying olive oil never buy anything in a clear bottle and make sure it is Extra Virgin Olive Oil, I like this one.

This Butter London Glam Rock nail polish set is perfect for any female host.  Also, after any event, your host will most definitely need to relax with one of these head massagers.  They may look funny, but believe me, it is amazing!

If it's a BYOB event, then why not bring you and your host a copper mug to drink your Moscow Mule in?  The mug always makes these taste so much better!

Finally holiday decorations are always a good idea.  I personally love pulling out all my decorations every November and reminiscing about the story of the people and events behind them.  If you know the person, try to stick with their holiday color scheme.  Some people like red and green while others {like me} may stick to having everything in gold and silver and sparkles whenever possible!