Morgan Dawson Photography

FlyingPeas {Kelly Valeri Surprise Shower Giveaway}

 

Since this is the last day of the baby shower for WW girl Kelly Valeri, we wanted to give something to everyone. That's right - you each get a gift! Who's behind this wonderfulness? FlyingPeas!

If you're not familar with FlyingPeas, go check them out right now. This online shop has a little bit of everything for moms-to-be, new moms, newborns and toddlers. If you need a gift - especially something a little fun - this is the place to go. I mean really, where else will you find a onesie that says "Fo'Shizzle." (I'm still laughing over that one :-)

FlyingPeas owner Terra has more information below about the shop and how to get your own shower gift.

Thanks, Terra!

***********************

Thanks for allowing us to be part of the baby shower for Kelly!  As you can imagine, we love baby showers at FlyingPeas.com – in fact, 65% of orders placed on FlyingPeas are for baby showers or a new baby!  So, when we heard of this opportunity, we jumped. 

When I had my twin boys in 2005, I was really surprised at how hard it was to find high quality AND hip goodies for them (things have come a long way in 5 years!).  As a busy working mom of twin infants, I didn’t always have the time (or energy!) to go stores to shop, so I relied on the Internet for everything – even grocery shopping!  I found over and over again that I was disappointed with what arrived – “it” either wasn’t as big, soft, bright or fabulous as the pictures online made it seem.  So, I set out to put my skills to work – finding great goodies for kiddos with style, comfort and pizazz – and making them easy to find and buy… and love.   

And there you have it – the birth of FlyingPeas.  I launched the business from the pediatric intensive care unit of a hospital (true and long story for another day), and haven’t looked back.  We are growing year after year in terms of products we carry and also lovely customers.  Initially, we focused exclusively on products for children up to 1 year of age, but as my boys grew, so did the age range for FlyingPeas.  So, if you’ve done the math, you’ll know that we offer products for kids up to about age 6, but I’d say our sweet spot is still very much in 0-3 years old.  So whether you’re looking for unique baby gifts, cool baby clothes, toddler toys, luxurious baby blankets, or even gifts for mom, we’ve got a little something for you.  :-)

~ Terra

 

{GIVEAWAY DETAILS}

To celebrate Kelly’s pregnancy and new little life she’s bringing into the world, we’ve got 3 gifts:

(1) We’re giving Kelly a onesie of her choice from FlyingPeas. 

(2) We’re also giving a $5 off code to everyone who “likes” our Facebook fan page and posts a link of their favorite FlyingPeas product on our Facebook wall.  Please be sure to put #WW at the end of your wall post - Once posted, we’ll send you a message with your $5 off code (no minimum purchase required to use code)

(3) Lastly, we’ll be giving away another (non-personalized) onesie to a randomly selected facebook fan with #WW in their wall post.  

Joining our Facebook fan page will give you early access to specials and promotions - and hopefully a little baby fun sprinkled in from time to time.  Thanks for checking us out and becoming a fan!

 

 

Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy {Kelly Valeri Surprise Shower Giveaway}

 

It's time to give out the fourth gift at the baby shower for WW girl Kelly Valeri! Don't worry - if you've missed any of the others, you still have time to get in on the action. Just head over the the Events tab of the Wardrobe Wednesday Facebook page.

Today's guest is my good friend Mindy MacLaren from Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy. Mindy and I first met when I photographed her twins about two years ago. At the time she was just starting her aromatherapy business, so I've had a chance to watch it (and the girls!) grow. I'll admit it - I'm a HUGE fan of Sweet & Woodsy. If you follow me on Facebook, you probably already know that though :-) Because of Mindy, I now clean my house using essential oils (no more stinky chemicals), have no more chapped lips (thanks to her new lip balm!), and am typing this while enjoying a custom blend she created for a diffuser in my office. No, I'm not a paid endorser - just a loyal customer :-)

I could go on and on, but I'm sure you'd rather hear more from Mindy herself AND hear about the gifts she's bringing to the shower (for Kelly and THREE lucky guests!).

One last thing - I HIGHLY suggest you become a Sweet & Woodsy fan on Facebook. You won't get bombarded with messages, but Mindy often shares some of her recipes for homemade cleansers and remedies!

 

*****************

Firstly, let me say that I am so honored to have been asked to participate in the Wardrobe Wednesday baby shower for Kelly, and to be able to share my story with their fans.  Thank you, Ladies!

I gave birth to my twin girls in August 2009.  In October 2009, I started my home-based business Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy.  I was so tired at that point (to which many a new mom can relate) I’m not sure what I was thinking!  But, as I look back on that time, I know I wouldn’t have done it any other way. 

It makes sense that my daughters and my business have grown alongside each other.  I’d learned about aromatherapy while in esthetics school in the 1990s, but my interest in using essential-oil based products began around the time my husband and I decided to start our family.  I’d become keenly (if not obsessively) aware of the kinds of substances around me and was learning how to support my health through natural options like aromatherapy and acupuncture.  It didn’t take long for me to give up the chemical-laden products I was accustomed to and begin making my own personal care and cleaning products.

My formal “aroma education” began in 2008 when I attended Aromahead Institute’s Aromatherapy Certification Program.  I credit this as one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life to date!  Not only did I learn about quality essential oils, their many therapeutic properties, and how to use them, but I also experienced top notch instruction and befriended many amazing people who continue to offer me, my family, and my business care and support.

The products for purchase at www.sweetandwoodsy.com are all handmade by me with organic or all- natural ingredients.  I have used all of these products on myself, my family, and in my home, so I know firsthand how wonderful they are.  The line offers an alternative to commercial personal care items and household cleaners and proves that the simplest of ingredients can create fabulous effects.  

Along with the peace of mind these non-toxic products offer, the essential oils that are blended into them are tested for purity, promoting physical and emotional health.  For example, Sweet & Woodsy’s Scented Baby Lotion contains only an all-natural lotion made of oils such as Safflower and Apricot, aloe vera gel, and distilled water, and Roman Chamomile essential oil (Chamaemelum nobile).  Traditionally, Roman Chamomile has been used with babies for its calming abilities, and because it’s also anti-septic, it can help keep baby healthy, especially during cold and flu season. Unlike commercial baby products which often contain harmful synthetic ingredients, you can use our lotion without worry.  And the fewer things to worry about (especially when it concerns your children), the better!  All of the Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy products are created with intention and I am very proud of them!  

I am so honored to have been asked to participate in the Wardrobe Wednesday baby shower, and to be able to share my story with their fans. 

Thank you, Ladies!

~ Mindy

 

{GIVEAWAY DETAILS}

I’m excited to offer everyone a chance to win some of the Sweet & Woodsy products! I'm going to pick THREE people who who will get to pick out either 1, 2, or 3 items of their choice. ANY item in the shop! To enter,

(1) Please “like” Sweet & Woodsy Aromatherapy on FaceBook

(2) Check out the SHOP on my brand new website at  www.sweetandwoodsy.com

(3) Come back here and leave a comment telling me the items you’d most like to try.

That's it! You have until 8:00 EST on Monday to leave your comment. I'll announce the winners on Tuesday! In the meantime, check out some of the products in the shop, as well as the contents of the gift basket I'm sending Kelly!

*****************

{Just a sample of what you can find at Sweet & Woodsy}

 

Here you go, Kelly - the contents of your gift basket! Enjoy :-)

From left to right: Citrus & Tea Tree Foaming Hand Soap, Mothering Blend Lotion, "Naturosporin" Healing Gel, Lavender Baby Bottom Balm, Lavender-Scented Baby Oil, Vanilla & Citrus Lip Balm & Sweet Cheeks Tushy Spray

Wardrobe Wednesday {A Rockin' Family}

In a million years I couldn't love this post more. Rebecca from Rebecca Keeling Studios has put together a totally cool look for the entire family that just screams funky session in the city. What makes this even better is the color - yellow! Don't ask me why, but I can't get enough of that color these days.

Thank you, Rebecca!

*********************

I'm not sure if my inspiration this week came from our very own fabulous logo colors or if I needed some cheering up as I listened to the rain outside of my window last night, but either way, I think it made for a great wardrobe collaboration!  

Although many of us are still firmly planted in cold winter temperatures, it won't be long before it starts warming up outside and we get back to doing what we love best...having outdoor portrait sessions with our favorite clients!  Spring makes me think of many things, including rain and rubber boots, which naturally pairs these fabulous black, white, and gray neutrals together with a pop of yellow.  

This week, I wanted to do something a little rock & roll, a little wild and crazy and FUN!!  While it wouldn't work for everyone, this wardrobe combination is geared toward a young family in an urban environment.  It is just begging to find some back alley grit juxtaposed with rambunctious laughter and soft kisses.  

Some of my favorite items from today's wardrobe are mom's jeans, which are super stylish but have a classic rise.  I adore mom's jacket.  By dressing in layers, not only do we look fabulous, but we are also able to conceal any spots where we may be a little self-conscious.  Don't forget to accessorize dad!  This Fossil watch is awesome...a little edgy and definitely very masculine.  And what's not to love about these skully rain boots or the adorable floral fabric headband?  But I have to say, my most favorite part has to be the color combination with the neutrals and one strong pop of color.  

So, even if this particular color combination is not necessarily your choice, you get an idea of how to pull together a wardrobe with any neutral palette and a pop of gorgeous color.  Cute, fun, and different...and that's what makes your portrait session personal for your family.

 

Where to find the goods:

 

Mom

Buckle BKE Drew Classic Rise Stretch Jean | $70

Buckle Daytrip Perforated Jacket | $65

Buckle Hurley Full Boar T-Shirt | $29

Banana Republic Corgie Open-Toe Zipper Bootie | $140

maxandchloe.com Primadina Pearl Fan Earrings | $165

maxandchloe.com Blu Bijoux Grecian Bangles | $45

 

Son

Boden Rugby Shirt | $22

Gap Whiskered Dark Wash Boot Jeans | $20

Gymboree Skull Rain Boots | $25

 

Dad

Buckle BKE Carter Jean | $70

Old Navy Twill Military Jacket | $50

Buckle Volcom V-Neck T-Shirt | $32

Banana Republic Adidas Campas II Grey Suede Sneaker | $60

Buckle Fossil Wide Band Watch | $85

 

Daughter

Gap Glamour Graphic T-Shirt | $20

Gap Alternate Tier Skirt | $20

Old Navy Girls Lace-Trim Leggings | $9

Journeys Kidz Converse Lo Athletic Shoe in Buttercup | $30

Made By Lori Etsy Store featuring the Yellow Flower Fabric Headband | $10 {http://www.etsy.com/shop/lori311?ref=pr_shop}

A Mother's Boutique {Kelly Valeri Surprise Shower Giveaway}

Well, what better way to start a shower than with a gift and giveaway! Our first guest is Judy from A Mother's Boutique. We originally thought Kelly might enjoy a pair of their yoga pants, but after a few minutes shopping around the site, we knew it would be better to let her pick something out. Judy's shop has SO many options for new moms!

Judy was kind enough to send us a short note about herself and A Mother's Boutique. She also has a gift for Kelly...and maybe a few of you. Get the details below!

{Photo of Judy and her son is courtesy of Robin DeNoma Photography}

*******************

{From Judy}

After a few months of being at home, I decided that I wanted to help other new mothers to breastfeed. Breastfeeding isn't always as easy as one might expect - and I wanted to help as many new mothers as possible to be successful in their efforts to breastfeed their babies. 

When I was a new mother, I had a difficult time finding quality nursing clothing and products that would enable me to be successful at breastfeeding.  I realized that this "unmet need" that I felt was also something that many other mothers also experienced. Coming from a business background, I decided this was something that I could use my corporate skills to develop a solution for. I realized that I would be able to meet my personal goals of spending more time with my son, while achieving professional goals of helping other new mothers succeed with breastfeeding. This led me to start up  A Mother's Boutique.

I originally started the company to provide moms with great nursing tops.  I LIVED in nursing tops when my son was a baby.  For me, I didn’t care if someone got a glimpse of my breast while I was nursing him (breasts are beautiful, right?) - I didn’t want my belly to be hanging out!  So when I discovered nursing tops – I literally lived in them.  I wore them whenever I was with my son and I also wore then while I was at work.  It made pumping easier, kept me warm in an overly air-conditioned office and provided the most discretion for those times when a co-worker (or my boss) happened to walk in on me!  I then expanded my “offerings” to include nursing bras and breastpumps and finally maternity clothing and slings and just about any accessory to make breastfeeding easier as well.

A Mother’s Boutique is focused on helping new mothers breastfeed by providing all of the tools that new mothers need in one convenient location.  I have selected the highest quality and most functional items (as well as many of my own personal favorites!) from several different designers to make sure that mothers shopping here get the best selection available. Based on my experience as a working mother, a stay-at-home mother, a work-at-home mother and now a one-woman-retail-wholesale-and-internet-store-operation, I have chosen items that will work for different kinds of mothers who are in different personal and professional parts of motherhood.  I have chosen stylish business wear for the mother who is pumping at work or meeting her baby at lunch for nursing; as well as comfortable casual wear for mothers who are on the go.  I have also made sure to include stylish casual and dress wear for all types of occasions - for dressing up and dressing down. 

In October of 2009, I started a blog as a way of supporting all of the moms out there having babies.  My blog, Mommy News and Views, has great parenting and breastfeeding advice.  And even a section where you can write in with your own breastfeeding questions.  And most recently - I opened a retail store in Wexford, PA in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.

I am passionate about helping moms to meet their breastfeeding goals.  I provide assistance in any way that I can think of – from writing articles to blogging to being a resource for moms on facebook and twitter.  I’d love to connect with you too!  You can find me on twitter @MommyNews and on Facebook.

I am so excited to be a part of this baby shower!  Congratulations on your baby-to-be Kelly!  I will be sending Kelly an item of her choice from my boutique – I can’t wait to find out what she chooses!!  And as part of this fantastic celebration, 4 lucky moms will also get to pick out something to treat themselves to as well!  The grand prize – a $50 gift certificate – will be given to one lucky mom!  And three additional gift certificates in the amount of $15 each will be given to the runners up!  That's FOUR lucky winners – and with our semi-annual sale going on now – there are TONS of great items to choose from!  All you have to do is stop by my Facebook page and “Like It” and then visit my website (http://www.mothersboutique.com) and figure out where you want to spend your gift certificate.  Then come back here leave a comment on this post telling me that you “liked” my page and which item you have your heart set on for your gift to yourself. I'll announce the four lucky fans on Friday!

 

{A FEW OF OUR PRODUCTS}

 

Nursing Bras: We carry nursing bras in sizes 32-48 A-K – so there is something to fit every mom, no matter what her size or shape!

 

 

 

Maternity Tops: All of our maternity wear can also be used for easy breastfeeding once your baby arrives – and these items are so cute! You won’t stop wearing them when your nursing days are over either.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pajamas: What new mom wouldn’t love to snuggle up at night in these!

  

 

 

 

 

 

Swimwear: It might be cold outside now – but before you know it you will be running in the sun with your little ones. This nursing swimwear will be perfect for chasing a toddler while breastfeeding your newborn – at the pool or at the beach!

 

 

Jewelry: This necklace makes the perfect gift for any mom or mom-to-be – appropriately named “Sweet Embrace." Can you think of anything you’d like more?

Hey, Kelly Valeri - Surprise!

 

With her due date less than two weeks away, we wanted to throw a shower for our good friend and Wardrobe Wednesday contributor Kelly Valeri of Kelly V. Photography and Black Lace Images. All this week we’ll have events and surprises, so stay tuned!

 

 

Wardrobe Wednesday {Build On Your Basics}

I admit it - I have a uniform that I wear almost every day.

{dark jeans and white tank} + {X over tank} = {my outfit}

If it sounds lazy - and some days, maybe it is! - remember that people like Bobby Brown and Vera Wang also have “uniforms” (have you EVER seen them wearing something other than black?). The trick to keeping this highly functional outfit fresh is to change up the {X}. For example, I can throw on a cozy sweater in the morning to wear while I edit with my coffee, swap the sweater for a white cardigan and fun necklace when I head out for a shoot, then make one more change into a fitted jacket and a pair of hoop earrings before meeting friends for a drink.

How easy is that - three totally different looks by changing out one piece of clothing and a few accessories!

Will this idea work for your next photo shoot? Absolutely! Rather than spend money on separate head-to-toe outfits, you can either save some dough by only picking up a few new pieces, or splurge a little on one or two killer tops. The other reason I love the idea of wearing a uniform to your shoot is how easy it is to change your look. You can bring along a small bag and make a quick change without having to look for a bathroom or car to change in. Not only will this get you more looks for your shoot, but your photographer will love knowing that the location for your session doesn’t need to revolve around a nearby spot to change.

To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, I put together a few different outfit ideas that will look great over your jeans and tank. But let’s make sure we have the basics set first.

The white staple tank shown below is my all-time favorite, can’t-live-without-it, should-have-bought-a-few-more top. No lie. I actually bought one for my Mother as part of her Oprah’s Morgan’s Favorite Things Christmas gift (which included a pair of pants from Lands End that I wear all the time - message me if you’re curious). While a white tank is something you can pick up anywhere, I love this one because: 

• the material is thin enough to layer and not get warm, but thick enough to not be see-through
• wide shoulder straps mean your bra straps won’t show (a no-no for any picture)
• you can wear this multiple times without it stretching out (great for travel!)
• wash after wash it still looks great

Ok - enough about the tank!

Jeans. Everyone has them, but just make sure what you’re wearing actually fits you. If they’re too tight or sag in the butt (you know what I’m talking about), you really should invest in a new pair. I secretly hate shopping on my own, so I like to go to a store where the salespeople will be brutally honest and not let me leave with a pair that looks bad. With SO many options - low rise, mid rise, skinny, bootleg, curvy - you can definitely find a pair that fits you. And for color, a darker wash always looks good, and can transition easily to an evening pant. 

Since the majority of your outfit is set, have fun with your {X} top. Be bold with colors and patterns. Wear some sweaters or tops buttoned up (maybe with a belt) or open and layered. Mix in fun jewelry and accessories like a scarf or hat (I’m obsessed with newsboy caps lately) - and voila! Picture perfect outfits in a snap :-)

SHOPPING GUIDE:

I recently asked our amazing Wardrobe Wednesday Facebook fans to tell us what clothing shop they love that many people don’t know about. Thanks to them, I now have even more online shops to drool over. You’ll see that I picked out a few items from these new-to-me stores. If you’re not familiar with them, I highly suggest you check them out!  

 

TOPS:

Ultra Soft Square Neck Tank - White House Black Market ($24.50)

Chic Merino Cardigan (yellow) - Boden ($88) 

Fairy Dance Top - Anthropologie ($98)

Perfect-Fit Mixed-Tape Cardigan (blue) - J.Crew ($49.50)

Com-pleatly Contemporary Top - ModCloth ($54.99)

Navy Blue Striped Cardigan Ruffle Trimmed with Pockets - La Posh Style ($41.99)

 

ACCESSORIES:

Polka Dot Bangle - Down East Basics ($7.99)

A Flying Swallow and Branch Necklace - Etsy ($26.50)

Teardrop Earrings with Crystal Detail - Maurices ($10.00)

 

Wardrobe Wednesday {Maternity}

Did you hear that Wardrobe Wednesday contributor Lindsay, of Lindsay Horn Photography, is having a baby! We're so excited for her entire family (including future big sis Emory), and can't wait to meet him or her this July :-) Even though it's still a few months away, I'm sure Linds is already picking out what she'll wear for her maternity photo shoot. Here she gives us a peek into what we might see!

*************************

With our own little bundle of joy on the way in July, I’ve had maternity portraits on the brain!  We didn’t get “real” maternity portraits taken the first time around (I know, shame on me), so I’m really excited to capture this special time for round two!  It’s so easy to feel frumpy and unattractive in some of the maternity clothes out there, but there are a lot of really cute outfits too!  I’ve chosen a couple of different styles and paired them with a coordinating looks for your man as well.  

Style number one is the “Urban Chic” look.  You can be pregnant and still be super trendy and stylish!  I LOVE this dress, I think the neckline gives some great balance for your adorable baby bump.  Being a Texas girl, I substituted the boots in the image for something a little more southern, and I added a vintage headband and necklace for a sweet feminine touch.  As an extra sweet bonus for you, TFJ Designs is offering 15% off of the first 10 orders of the Kayla headband (shown here) using the code: WWKAYLA15!  Make sure to click on the link below in the shopping list to take advantage ASAP! If you do miss out, check around her shop, she has plenty of adorable accessories.  Dress your guy up in this modern take on an old classic – he is also the perfect accessory!  

Style number two is the “Casual Cool” look.  I picture these outfits in a natural setting where the colors will really pop.  I love the layering in this outfit, and it just goes to show that our standard style advice still applies even in a maternity wardrobe … layers, textures, and accessories!  I found some great jewelry to round out this adorable ensemble, and even included an accessory for your hubby too (if he’ll go for it!).  

Just remember, pregnancy is something to be celebrated and commemorated, no matter how much weight you’ve gained or how unattractive you may feel.  You DO look beautiful, and your kiddos will love looking back on these images one day too!  

Shopping List: 

URBAN CHIC

Woman:

Shawl Collar Dress (Motherhood Maternity) $29.99

Black Boots (Old Navy) $34.97

Drop Necklace (Kohl’s) $20.00

Vintage Headband (TFJ Designs) $28.00

 

Man: 

Black Pants ( Old Navy) $19.97

Sweater Vest (Old Navy) $24.50

Blazer (Old Navy) $49.50

Black Shoes (Target) $29.99

 

CASUAL COOL

Woman: 

Low-rise Boot Cut Maternity Jeans (Old Navy) $24.97

Fuchsia Jersey Stretch Tank (Old Navy) $10.00

Lightweight Floral Smocked Tank (Old Navy) $27.50

Boyfriend Cardigan (Old Navy) $34.50

Flats (Old Navy) $19.50

Earrings (Old Navy) $7.50

Bracelets (Old Navy) $10.50

 

Man:

Khaki Pants (Old Navy) $29.50

Oxford Shirt (Old Navy) $20.00

Brown Shoes (Target) $34.99

Bracelet (Urban Outfitters) $5.00