Color Me {Traditional Christmas}

We get to that point every year where the conversation shifts from summer vacations and weekend road trips to Christmas traditions and holiday decor. Like many, the first thing that pops into my head are thoughts of traditional touches like deep red and hunter green plaid topping a table filled with homemade cookies and festive cocktails. Combine that with a roaring fire, mugs of hot cocoa and a blanket of fresh snow outside and you have the picture perfect traditional Christmas. While some of us live in areas where this is far from reality, there are ways to create the "traditional" Christmas no matter the circumstances. All you need is a bright holiday spirit and a sea of red and green decor to create that unmistakable Christmas feel!

Color Me {Cranberry}

Every Thanksgiving the table gets set with golden brown roasted turkey, bright orange yams, gorgeous green brussel sprouts, and an unappetizing lump of cranberry sauce. While the look of the sauce is not that appealing, the color is quite perfect for the season. The brightness of the deep red truly sets the holiday feel of the day and compliments the natural rustic tones of the season. The perfect holiday table for me would be last week’s shade of wheat mixed with the cheery cranberry and neutral navy. The combination could start with your Thanksgiving table and carry through the holiday season by adding in appropriate tones of hunter green. Add in a few metallic tones and you will be set for the season!

Color Me {Lord of Gourds}

I spent the day yesterday relaxing, crafting, and cooking getting in the spirit of fall. Around here, you have to make your own fall feel. With temperatures near where they were in April and May, it takes a world of fall inspired decorations and recipes to really get me in the mood, and what screams of fall more than gourds. It doesn't matter the shape, size or color, I put them everywhere. From a large bowl on the center of my dining table to mini ones turned into candle holders to a display on the front steps, you can find gourds hanging all around. While they are great for crafting and decorating, I really love them for their color. We don't get the changing colors of leaves in Florida, but the beautiful fall tones found naturally in gourds gives me the color shift I'm looking for. I plan on keeping the tones present throughout from now till Thanksgiving and know that it will keep my autumn spirit in tact!

Color Me {Apple Orchard}

It's no secret I'm a Florida girl in and out, meaning I love the hot weather. Just the thought of winter and  being cold makes me want to take off running toward the Caribbean as fast as I can. But, this past weekend, we had our first little taste of fall and I kind of liked it. The afternoons still got up into the high 90s but the mornings and evenings were a nice cool 80 degrees. It was the perfect weather for throwing on a pair of shorts and a chambray shirt and heading out to brunch. Admittedly, it got me excited for fall days ahead. I'm ready for all that the season has to bring like s'mores, bonfires, pumpkin flavors, and apple anything. While I eat apples all year round, nothing beats apple treats in the fall. Whether it be apple pie, apple cider or caramel apples, you really can't go wrong. Plus, the color is gorgeous making for unbelievable decor!

Have a fall-tastic Monday!

Party DIY {Star Spangled Table Runner}

Another day another DIY. We've decorated our windows, now it's time to add a splash to the food tables. I love to use table runners to give that pop of color and pattern. You don't have to worry about food spilling on them either making for easy clean-up. I keep a stash of them for every occasion but when one doesn't fit the bill, making a custom one is always fun. For this Fourth of July holiday, I was looking for a runner with a bit of flair. I wanted something with a traditional feel but in an unconventional way. The stars give that undoubtedly patriotic look but the aqua and artistic royal stars give it the updated look I was going for. Here's the how to...

:: Supplies ::
Table Runner
Royal Blue Acrylic Paint
Aqua Acrylic Paint
Red Acrylic Paint
Star Stencil
Pencil
Paint Brush

:: Directions ::
1. Trace star stencil with pencil on to table runner in desired pattern.
2. Paint 1/3 of the stars aqua and 1/3 red.  Paint the remaining 1/3 with the royal paint. To achieve the abstract look, use the tip of your paint brush to paint the outline of the star feathering out the ends.

Happy Wednesday!

Color Me {Red, White & Blue}

Happy Monday! It's Fourth of July week and we are gearing up for a week full of patriotic goodness. Over the next couple days, I will be posting some fun all American DIYs to make your July 4th gathering stand out. Today, though, I'm sharing the inspiration behind the celebration. Stars and stripes provide not only great pattern but symbolic meaning accompanied by signature shades of red, white, and blue. I plan to fill the house with bundles of red carnations and blue hydrangeas, DIY flag garland, star spangled table runners, and more. July 4th is the quintessential All American summer holiday, and one of my favorites I must say. I can't wait for the week of festive posts and the big celebration on Thursday. Until then, let's just enjoy the inspiration and dream of fireworks to come...

Have a happy day!

Color Me {Summer Berry}

Recently, I've been seeing all of these posts on Facebook about people picking their own produce, everything from citrus to vegetables to berries. It looks so fun and I've been dying to do it for awhile now. I finally did some research the other day and found a place not to far from our house. There we can pick organic blueberries, blackberries and strawberries, and I'm already imagining what to do with the loot. I'm thinking pies, cobblers, and tarts galore. I may event finally try my hand at canning and make some berry preserves to give as gifts. The thought of finally going picking has me inspired for summer parties too. The bright, vivid colors of the berries spring thoughts of a pretty, relaxed afternoon gathering. Pink, navy, red and deep burgundy will fill the room accompanied by soft neutrals like ivory and gold. It would make a great scheme for a formal affair as well. Whether you make it formal or casual, the organic combination of berry shades is perfect for all your warm weather get togethers.

Have a great Monday!

Happy Memorial Day!

Happy Memorial Day friends. I hope everyone is enjoying their long holiday weekend. Today’s post is going to be short and sweet so you can all get back to the party! While today is full of celebration and fun, it’s about more than just BBQs and pool parties. Take some time today to remember those who have fought for our country, those who have made the ultimate sacrifice giving you to ability to celebrate today.  Without those individuals, we would not be the country we are. Thank you to all the veterans and those currently serving in our armed forces. Words could never express how grateful I truly am for you!

Have a safe Memorial Day! 

Color Me {Red with Love}

Happy Valentine's week! Tis the week of love and showing those you care for most how much they mean to you. In the spirit of love, I wanted to fill today's post with shades of it. Adorned with various pinks and reds, this color pallet is not only perfect for the day of love but for the upcoming spring season. These bright shades bring a sense of happiness and a welcoming spirit. So as we raise a glass of champagne to love this week let's also toast to the oncoming spring season and a series of bright posts to come!

Who will you share Valentine's day with?

A Crafted Holiday {Hand Stamped Wrapping}

If there is anything I love more than crafting, it's the holidays. And, when you put the two together, I'm in heaven! Because of this, I'm having a ball with the "A Crafted Holiday" series. Today's entry is all about what you put under the tree. After all, half the fun of gift giving is getting to wrap in beautiful ways. I wanted to make my own wrapping paper this year to add a personal touch, but I needed it to be time efficient. If you are as busy as I am during the holiday season, this party is key! Instead of decorating each box, I opted for a hand stamped roll. This way I can roll it out whenever it's needed and get the same affect with less time. Top it off with a bow and personalized tag for the ultimate gift under the tree.

:: Supplies ::
Large Pattern Stamp
Red Acrylic Paint
Kraft Wrapping Paper
Sponge Brush

:: Directions ::
1. Brush the stamp with red paint and apply to paper. Repeat until roll is covered.
2. Let dry and wrap.

Give Thanks

Thanksgiving is just a short week away, and I've got my table all planned out.  This year I'm going with a simplistic rustic feel. Thanksgiving is the ultimate holiday to go rustic in my book. A centerpiece of branches is perfect for guests to hang what they are thankful for on. I've laid out felt leaves in the middle of the table along with a silver sharpie so each guest can take one and write what they are thankful for and hang it on the branch. Somewhere towards the end of dinner, you can pick a leaf off and read what it says. I plan on setting up the meal as a buffet but by tieing guests silverware with a piece of twine they won't have to worry about carrying that on top of their already full plates. Keep the colors fall like and neutral using reds, oranges, and browns and whites. What I love about decorating for Thanksgiving, is you don't have to look farther than your back yard for all the items you need! How will you be decorating your table this year?

Color Me {Plaid}

Plaid is one of my favorite classic trends for fall. The mix of deep reds and hunter greens in a tartan pattern is one I love when paired with jeans and a vest. With this timeless trend floating in my head, I'm dreaming of transitioning it to the party. Imagine an ivory cloth, a plaid linen napkin, and an array of candles tied with pieces of plaid. It all sounds like the perfect fall themed dinner party to me!

Happy Monday!

Color Me {Harvest Apple}

I have to let you know that as I'm writing today's post, I'm staring out the window at the most beautiful day! It's the kind of Florida fall day that is warm but not humid, full of sun and clear blue skies. It's the kind of day that makes me so happy to be a Floridian. Fall days like this one inspire me to embrace all that the season has to offer. While apples are readily available all year, the best ones come right now. Autumn apples are full of flavor and the color is outstanding. The deep shade of red with hints of gold is a stunning representation of the season and I can't wait to use it in any way possible!

What's your favorite shade of fall?

Happy Labor Day!

Happy Labor Day y'all! It's been a long, great summer and I'm very sad to see it come to an end. With traveling about and celebrating many milestones with great friends, I have sure made some memories to last. So, with the summer officially over, let's all send it out with a big bang today. I am hosting a beer tasting party a bit later today that will be featured in the next issue of LPF Mag. I can't wait to see it all brought together and spend one last summer night with friends. Instead of creating a whole new inspiration board for you today, I wanted to share one of my favorites centered around the dream of an endless summer.

Hope you all have a great holiday. How will you be celebrating the end of summer?

Color Me {Garnet}

Football season kicks off this Saturday and I couldn't be more excited to spend my Saturdays out at Doak Campbell soaking up all the Florida State love. My excitement has me inspired this week and coloring all that I can garnet. Not only is it the signature color of my beloved Seminoles, but a perfect shade to introduce fall. The deep shade of red transitions beautifully from season to season making an impact whether it be the center of attention or in pops. It pairs nicely with golds, browns, and blacks and is the perfect color for casual for formal affairs.

Have a great Monday!

Color Me {Stars & Stripes}

I know it might look like I'm trying to celebrate the 4th of July all over again, but I'm not. It's time to celebrate my favorite athletic event (or series of events), The Olympics! It only comes around once every four years, so it's time to do it big and bust out the stars and stripes and root on the U.S. in true American style.  For your Olympics viewing party, stars and stripes are a must. Not only is it fun pattern play, but incredibly patriotic. If you can't be there in person, I must say that this is definitely the best way to celebrate! Striped linens, flag cupcake or burger toppers, and star shaped foods will complete the setting in perfect patriotism.

Essentially {4th of July}

Happy almost 4th! It's time to start making those final party plans and preparing for a patriotic celebration. There are so many things I naturally associate with the 4th of July that it can be hard to pin down a specific focus for a get together. For this party, I wanted to focus on American classics, you know, the things that represent American tradition. Here are some of my must haves for classic patriotic  celebration...

1. Sparklers: No Independence Day is complete without an outstanding fireworks show. But, if you are anything like me, you are too scared to set them off yourself. Sparklers are the perfect compromise and it's so fun to see what shapes you can make before they burn out!

2. Hot Dogs: A true American favorite. Whether you like it topped with chili and cheese or mustard and relish, this handheld dish is great for large gatherings. Make it fun for guests and do a hot dog bar featuring all the toppings they could imagine like ketchup, mustard, onions, relish, chili, cheese and whatever else you can thing of.

3. Cracker Jacks: This fun snack even comes with a prize inside. Serve it up as an appetizer or give each guest a box as they leave. Either way, the ball park delicacy should find a home at your soiree.

4. Red, White, & Blue Decor: Incorporate our nation's colors wherever possible such as in your food, in banners or signs, or even on the table. Make up cute sayings like "Sweet Liberty" to top off cupcakes or other sweet treats. 

5. The American Flag: No explanation necessary. The symbol of our great nation should be the focus of the event. Get creative and incorporate the different flags throughout the years.

6. Mason Jars: A true Southern American classic. While the clear jars get the point across, if you have some vintage blue jars lying around use them as vases, silverware holders, or even cups. The shade of blue is gorgeous and keeps with your color theme. 

Color Me {Red, White, & Blue}

Hi dolls! I hope everyone had a fabulous last week. Mine was amazingly relaxing and I wish I was back in the Islands already. But, another holiday is upon us and it's time to celebrate. When I was a kid, I used to hate the 4th of July because the fireworks scared the living daylights out of me. But, the older I got, the more I realized what an amazing holiday it is and how much fun it can be. I love incorporating the patriotic stars and stripes in any way possible. Striped linens topped with star shaped treats in the traditional red, white, and blue will make for one chic event. Add in new favorited American traditions like bandanas and mason jars to complete the decor. Serve up cracker jacks, hamburgers and hot dogs to make for the perfect red, white, and blue celebration! 

Celebrate in Style {La Petite Fashionista's Guide to 4th of July Style}

 Fourth of July is the one day of the year you can really show your American spirit and wear all the red, white, and blue you want. I like to add a little bit of sparkle to my looks because after all, you can't let the sparklers glitter more than you!I love the idea of mixing girly and tomboy with a sequin tank and an all-American baseball cap.  I'm also dying to DIY the American flag shorts & Free People has an awesome tutorial for them (http://blog.freepeople.com/2012/06/american-flag-shorts-diy/). It seems like the 4th always falls on one of the hottest days of the year, so make sure whatever you wear is chic & comfortable and save the heels for another day, unless you'll be the one sitting and staking out seats at the 4th of July Parade.

I hope everyone has a fun & safe Independence Day! Thanks for letting me guest post Sarah!

xoxo, lauren

Fabulous 4th of July Looks by lapetitefashionistablog featuring flats

Monki dress
€30 - monki.com

J Crew sequin top
$55 - jcrew.com

J Crew stripe shirt
$78 - jcrew.com

J Crew chambray skirt
$55 - jcrew.com

Jack Wills leather shoes
$90 - jackwills.com

Keds ballet shoes
$55 - endless.com

Flat
$20 - bakersshoes.com

Andrew Hamilton Crawford yellow gold ring
$98 - endless.com

Earrings
$42 - swellcaroline.com

Ebbets Field Flannels® for J.Crew twill ball cap
$45 - jcrew.com

Happy Memorial Day!

Hi dolls! I hope you are enjoying your 3 day weekend as much as I am. I'm spending this bonus day off waiting out the storm in hopes that the rain stops long enough for us to catch some rays by the pool and grill out on the back deck. But even if it doesn't I'm sure we will find some way to celebrate the real meaning of this holiday and honor those who fight for our country everyday. What do you all have planned for today? Hopefully something fun!

I'll be back tomorrow with a fun DIY that screams summer!