BonBon Deal(S) of the Day and I'ts ParTAY Time!

I apologize for the weak post, but I'm preparing for a very important trip. Where am I going you ask? It's bachelorette party time baby. Some girls are about to go very wild. On the off chance you are reading this my dear hubs, don't worry babe. PG rated fun only...I promise. I may or may not have my fingers crossed. Ah ha ha.

As you're reading this my lovely readers, I'm either in the air or have already landed in the Lone Star state to celebrate one of my very best friend's goodbye to the swingin' single life. I promise to report all (well almost all) the hilarity that is bound to ensue this weekend! In the meantime, enjoy these deals of the day. I have for you a sampling of uber fun accessories from none other than Fred Flare. I know. I know. I'm a tad obsessed right? Oh well.

As I've probably already indulged in a few cocktails...Won't you join me in a toast to my girl? I LOVE YOU ERIKA!

Cocktail Ring {$10.00}



Chain Bracelet {$12.00}



Bangles {$12.00}



Evening Bag {$32.00}



Studded Flats



Studded Headband {$10.00}

Fall Dinner

I've heard so many of my friends say they can't cook. That they can bake, but baking is different or that cooking relies too much on intuition. Personally I can't argue any of that, at heart I'm more of a baker myself. As a child I made chocolate chip cookies so often my family begged me to add more cookie types to my repertoire. To this day I can back chocolate chip cookies from scratch with no recipe or measuring cups. But in order to prevent myself from hitting the drive-thru too often I've done my best to learn and follow recipes.

This month's Real Simple featured a version of the recipe below. I altered it to not have olives or paprika and to be even more simple. The result was a delicious traditional Sunday dinner without much fuss. And Something about the taste of roasted chicken and carrots make it seem like a cozy fall night! If you've never roasted carrots because you're not a carrot eater give it a try. They come out sweeter yet are still great for you!

(photo and original recipe from Nov. Real Simple)

Roasted Chicken, Carrots, Onions and Lemons

Ingredients

• 1 chicken (3 1/2 to 4 pounds), cut into 10 pieces
• 2 pounds carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces (halved lengthwise if thick)
• 1/2 white onion sliced
  
• 4 bay leaves
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• kosher salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Heat oven to 425° F. On a large rimmed baking sheet, toss the chicken, carrots, onions, bay leaves, lemon, oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Arrange in a single layer.
2. Roast, tossing the vegetables once, until the chicken is cooked through and the carrots are tender, 45 to 50 minutes.

An Etsy Shop Worth Visiting and Giveaway Winner Announcements

I can't remember exactly how or when I came across Alex Keller's lovely Etsy shop, but it seems like I've been drooling over her gorgeous pieces of jewelry forever and a day.

BonBon regulars may remember when I featured one of her beautiful upcycled necklaces here. I thought it was about time I showed you lovely readers a bit more of what she has to offer. And bonus, practically her whole shop is on sale right now. The holidays are just around the corner people. Don't some of your favorite ladies deserve a pretty bauble?













And as promised I have our giveaway winners...The Perricone MD product goes to lucky no. 58, Shop N' Chomp, who will tempt you daily with her shopping and culinary finds. The Lisa for Loft Breast Cancer Bracelet winner is none other than no. 73, Ink Obsession Designs, who has a graphic design studio. Do you need a gorgeous holiday invitation, adorable birth announcements or some stationary perhaps? She's got it all! Send us your contact information please ladies!





Now, you can see why I haven't been posting my horrid Iphone giveaway photos. Hideous! One of these days I'll use my actual camera. Ah ha.

BonBon Deal of the Day

I don't know about you, but paisley continues to captivate my interest and these gorgeous scarves from Shop Suey Boutique are no exception. Whether you desire a traditional Fall palette or brighter colors, you're covered! Or, since they're only $18.00, you could get both. Ah ha!

Falling Back

How nice was it to wake up on Sunday and realize you gained an hour?! Whether they were spent sleeping in, meeting friends for brunch, sorting Halloween candy, or any ol' thing, those 60 minutes felt like a precious gift not to be taken lightly. And here in Annapolis, Sunday was the perfect fall day. A nip was in the air and the leaves were spectacular, to complete my picture I threw in an over sized coffee mug, Uggs and some morning HGTV. Sigh..why can't everyday be Sunday?

So in honor of our Daylight Savings I thought I would feature some great clocks from Etsy shops. Here are some of my favorites, all of which I find drool worthy.

Using reclaimed wood and old bicycle parts make this a great clock for a garage, boys room or just somewhere where an unexpected touch is welcome.

What girly girl wouldn't adore this hand painted vinyl record turned wall clock!

How fab would this utensil clock from Metal Media be in a retro diner inspired kitchen? Better yet it comes packaged in a pizza box! I'm not EVEN kidding!

What a beauty! The Love Ceramic wall clock is great from Lurearts Pottery is one of many items in this Etsy shop that make my heart go pitter patter!

p.s. Kristin is guest posting today here at my teacups in peony. If you have a moment, please check out this lovely blog. It's writer, Nicole, has one of the sweetest voices out there. You won't be disappointed!

Sweater Dress City

How is it Monday again already? Ughhhhhhhh. This weekend went WAY too fast! My little Winnie the Pooh only lasted 20 minutes in his costume, but it was long enough for us to get some pictures. I guess that's all you can hope for out of a toddler, especially since it was so hot. The poor little dude was sweating like he was in a sauna. The heat had me once again dreaming of cool weather. It's gotta hit us eventually right? My fingers are all kinds of crossed.

One of my favorite pieces to sport in the Fall/Winter is the sweater dress. Whether I wear it with boots and tights or leggings and heels, it instantly makes me feel put together. And that ease of use will definitely come in handy this year, now that I feel messy and harried the majority of my days.

Arden B



M.s.s.p. at Dilliard's



Banana Republic



GUESS by Marciano



Ella Moss at Nordstrom



DKNY Jeans at Piperlime



Banana Republic



I wouldn't mind rocking any of the above with these Kelsi Dagger boots that I found at Piperlime.





p.s. I know I'm way behind on choosing giveaway winners, but I was busy with preparation for the holiday weekend. The dude's second Halloween was a momentous occasion after all. That's why I had a kid...so I could use him as an excuse. What? Is there something wrong with that? Ah ha ha. I promise I will have the winners of the Perricone MD and Lisa for Loft Breast Cancer Bracelet on Wednesday. Have a fabulous Monday. I know. That's a tall order, but I'm going to do my best to make it a great one despite my crappy Monday track record! Won't you join me?

BonBon Deal of the Day

Isn't this a perfectly pretty necklace? I know faux pearls can look cheap sometimes, but I just adore this layered beauty's flower accent. It's too fun to pass up. I would wear this to perk up one of my plain black sweater dresses in second! Get yours at shopthelook.net. It's only $14.00!

A Jewel or Two For You in the BonBon Deal(s) of the Day

Happy Halloween lovelies! I thought I would tap into the dramatics of the day by giving you a sampling of statement cuffs. Whether you're wearing one of these beauties with a tee shirt and jeans or a little black cocktail dress, you'll positively ooze glamour! And since this post is also serving as BonBon's Deal(s) of the Day, every one of these bracelets are under $15.00 and available at Forever 21. I'm going to need to move to a bigger house just so I can have a closet to solely house my accessories. F21 sucks me in every time with it's ridiculously inexpensive baubles. You hear that economy? Pick up, so I can put my house on the market!

Whatever your plans for the holiday, I hope you have a fabulously glamorous (and safe) evening! Even if you're staying at home handing out candy, you can still glitz things up a bit. Pop open a bottle of bubbly and pile on the cocktail jewelry you sexy thangs! As you can see, I can pretty much slip champagne into any occasion. Ah ha.

$12.80 {3 color options}






$12.80 {2 color options}





$10.80





p.s. GO GATORS!!! Go get those Dawgs. CHOMP!!!

Need a pen?

Lately I've had a lot of notes to write. Not a bad thing as it usually indicates birthdays, thank you notes and friendly hellos, but now it is definitely time to stock up on some more paper supplies. I love fun good quality note cards and here are a few great ones I found.

Fifi over at Fifi Flowers Design was so kind to send me a set of her amazing note cards that she designs herself. They arrived looking so spectacular and even have a mini-scene on the envelopes that coordinates with the card. Make sure to check out her site here and etsy shop here.

These notes from Kate's Paperie with red flowers and small gold foil bee are so simple and pretty, who wouldn't love to receive it in the mail?!

Lovin' this tree from Paper Source!

I know it's early but this "Cycling Santa" card from the Moma store has captured my heart! I think they are going to be a must for me this holiday season!

Can black and orange be chic?

Yeah, I apologize for the pedestrian title. I had nothing. It's after midnight and I'm a bit punchy. Anyhoo, if I was able to be fun and fancy free this Friday night, I would love to go out on the town with the hubs for a dressed up date night. Seeing as it's Halloween on Saturday, I think it would be fitting to pay tribute to this spooktacular time of the year by rocking some black and orange. True, when you see that color combination you immediately think hokey Halloween, at least I do, but I think it can still be chic if done right.

So, there you have it. My mission today was to find an elegant ensemble that still has some edge, so as to be an appropriate look for the upcoming holiday weekend. Remember when I said if I could be fun and fancy free I would be out and about on Friday. Alas, we have the dude and the babysitters, my Mom and sister, have plans themselves. So, I'll just be dreaming about wearing this outfit while sipping a glass of bubbly and digging into a gourmet banana split. There is a restaurant in Tampa that has a killer dessert room that makes the most incredible banana splits. There is something so decadent about sharing a bottle of champagne and one of those delicacies with your significant other. Sigh.

Lace dress with zipper detail from Fred Flare {In case you were wondering why I would wear a sleeveless dress at the end of October, it's because it is STILL in the nineties here. Not kidding.}



Bangle from Etsy shop starsprinklez {I love the whimsy of this piece that was created from Halloween sprinkles.}



Christian Louboutin peep toes from Saks Fifth Avenue {I heart these so much, I can ignore the fact that the red soles just might clash with the orange bangle.}





p.s. If you aren't sick of us yet...The Fabulous Finds Gal interviewed us here. Please pay her beautiful blog a visit! And after you're done browsing around her site, go check out the lovely vintage pieces that she stocks in her boutique!

An Interview You Don't Want to Miss!

Megan and I have so enjoyed reading other bloggers' interviews that we thought it was time we got in on the action. And what better subjects for our first time than the uber delicious Badger Colony chicks. If you aren't familiar, this kick arse club of ladies consists of...

Liz from It's Unbeweavable,



Brooke from oofa luffa le



and Mayra from life is BANANAS.



These woman are some of my very favorite peeps (and friends) in the blogosphere and I'm thrilled to be able to give you all a little insight into what makes them tick. And away we go...

1. How did the three of you connect and form the Badger Colony?

L: Well, all thanks goes to Brooke...matchmaker matchmaker find me my badger colony...Are ya'll singing?

I stumbled upon Brooke's blog through one of my "real life friends" blogs (and my badgers are real life friends too now, but you must read on), and, like every person in the universe, was immediately drawn to THAT HAIR of amazingness on top of her pretty little head...and I knew I must stalk further. What can I say? It was a standard blogmance girl crush obsession that LUCKILY was mutual...comments turned emails turned texts turned phone calls that literally had us rolling on the floor laughing. A goat and a mini horse, Brooke and I are an Unbeweavably OOFA version of MTV's Rob and Big. Brooke and I have beome so close that we like to say it's absolutely unhealthy...in the best way ever.

We live for the weekends. With 3 of us, at least one is getting dressed up and going out and we text, text text...or even if we aren't going out and staying home with Sangria in a bottle, we are always in contact...one Friday night, Brooke sent a text to both myself and a new number, and I immediately knew! BANANA! Mayra! Oh jesus have you answered my prayers?! Could it be? My lil heart skipped a beat because I had been wanting to get to know this pretty lady who I could tell was basically my badass spiritual guide, but wasn't sure about how to demand we be friends...luckily 2 seconds later I received a text back that said "Is this Liz?!!" and BOOM basically constant communication ever since that I absolutely canNOT live with out.

One mind. One heart. One LOVE. There is nothing we wouldn't do for each other, cheeseball as that sounds...and distance? Suck it. Frame of mind, as these two girls have my heart and soul wrapped up in their immaculately manicured badgers paws...The Badger Colony > The Wolf Pack. We would never leave one of our own on the roof of a hotel in Vegas...that's not how we roll, yo.

B: well pretty much how you connect with all the special gals in your life...by pure magic...seriously though it was just one of those things where "when you know you just KNOW"...

with liz: i stumbled upon her place through stalking around her gal chrystina's blog and was awestruck and instantly jealous to find that they were real life friends...they both seemed to have "the life"...living in l.a. working in glamtastic fashion world...the dream team...and like most gals are, i was instantly smitten with liz...like a tractor beam i was drawn to her...so i flaunted my hair around her comments to attempt to catch her eye and it was then that liz and i started the sly glances and back and forth commenting...until one day when our mild flirting went from subtle courting to full on coupledom...and that was the day she won a very very special live-it, love-it giveaway...add in a completely inappropriate disco stick comment, an "and i will always love you"esque bodyguard type post defending my lady against some mean mugging cause they have bad hair blogging trolls...a quick exchange of numbers...a white chapel wedding...a traditional {but slightly awkward cause we just held each other} over the threshold walk and we've since been living the happily {not unlike ali larter in obsessed} ever after...awwww young love...

with mayra: again i stumbled across her blog and thought to myself this is one supa badass chick and i must MUST have her for my own!!! i often say that folks don't get my quirky personality and my love of sarcasm and dry humor...but she did immediately...there was no having to explain to her the no rhyme or reason way i write...couple that with my obsession with refreshing her page until she posted something for the day and i just knew i was falling more and more for her banana self by the minute...she is fierce in every sense of the word...and while you could say she is: an incredible blogger, an awesome shoegasm giver, and a love story {with dave} envy inducer, her loyal friendship is what i love from her the most...

the actual "badger colony" was formed however when mayra had posted about a weekend she had with her real life "wolf pack"...instantly i was jealous and knew that our threesome needed an animal calling...hoping that my two hilarious counterparts could give each give input and we could then hold a seance with full throttles and chocolate rice cakes with peanut butter all around and take it to a vote...i nonchalantly threw my suggestion out there...the badger colony...and strangely it just stuck...and i am SO glad it did because there is just no other way to describe our strange but unyielding friendship than how {the endall.beall of all things true and smart on the internet} wikipedia explains..."badgers can be fierce animals and will protect themselves and their young friends at all costs." yep...that's us...

M: well back in april, i joined a little community called blogger, you’ve all heard of it, right? ;). my blog was simple, nothing special, just me being me, very random. didn’t think anyone would read it and then one day i got a comment from a pretty little lady named brooke. brooke's comment was simple yet special...i knew right then, she got me and for that reason we needed to be friends. from there on, we formed a bloggy connection and quickly became more than bloggy friends.

about a month or so later, brooke “introduced” me to liz, her unbeweavable bestie and instantly we clicked, having one too many things in common...from latin fury episodes to our obsession with all things badass.

and that’s when the badger colony was born...the better alternative to a wolfpack. three bloggers with one mind.

so there you have it folks. the rest is history. i love these girls madly...more than blogger buds...and even though we’re hours apart, days even, i’m still here for them like any good friend 'cause that's how we roll, yo!

2. All three of you have gorgeous senses of style, which is why I think I was drawn to each of initially. (That and your wicked awesome senses of humor.) If you could pick just one article of clothing to represent your style, what would it be?

L: Kristin, that's just because your sense of humor is as sick and twisted as ours. And we love it. Well, this is easy for me, I spend way too much time blogging about....BOOTS! I effing love me some boots. Badass and sexy with a touch of class. Of course I had to go with some simple, every day Loubies :)



B: um.first of all ms.poster of all things amazing in fashion...a'thankya!!! and as for me this would of course be jeans...i am not a dress gal...i am not a shorts, trouser, or skirt kinda gal...i am jeans through and through...show me the sfamk.rasts.citizens.paiges.or james and i'll show you a happy oofa!



M: oh kristin, you are far too kind. if i had to pick just one item of clothing to represent my style it would have to be something like this...



believe it or not, i collect jackets almost as much as i do shoes and gray has always been my go to color.

3. Give me a favorite food, movie and song that screams your name.

L: Food-Peanut MM's, Choc rice cakes with peanut butter, Nutella straight from the jar, Honey Nut Cheerios. Wow, I eat like a toddler.

Movie-The Sweetest Thing-if you know the penis song, consider us good old friends. If you don't know what I'm talking about, rent that...

Song-P.Y.T Michael Jackson...this is my jam. I am walking down the aisle to it should I ever tie the knot, and I had this planned way before the Office, people...don't get it twisted.

B: food: full throttle...this counts as food right?!? part of any well balanced diet...

movie: savannah smiles (1982)...i think from 1984-1990 there was not a day that went by that i didn't watch this movie...i may have actually worn out at least three vhs copies...i tend to be obsessive like that...

song: poison by bel biv devoe..."she's so fly, she'll drive you right out of your mind"...umm hello...SCREAMS ME...

M: sushi ~ i probably eat it 5-10 times a month and i'm not even exaggerating. add sake bombs and i'm one happy girl.

romy and michelle high school reunion ~ um...love this movie! "i'm the mary you're the rhoda!" bwahahaha!

hollerback girl by gwen stefani ~ it's not my favorite song but literally it screams my name...
B-A-N-A-N-A-S!!!

4. What sources of inspiration are you drawing from right now?

L: Strangers on the street, fashion editorials, runway shows, fellow bloggers because whoa there are some inspirational fashion bloggers on blogspot. Who knew? I know what works for my body and I don't like to fall to victim to trends that won't last longer than few weeks. I've also been lucky enough to go to fashion school and work in the industry ever since and being surrounded by the art that is fashion every day just gets in your blood...and if you can't be inspired there, you're probably in the wrong place.

B: this question is tricky for me because i don't actually draw "inspiration" from anywhere specific...of course there are many time i see an ensemble flawlessly put together and swoon and fuss over it and throw a tantrum that it MUST be mine...but as quickly as i see it i forget it...i may have a memory that rivals that of an elephant but i am SO awful at downloading to memory specific articles and where i saw them...so i just go with what feels most like "me"...and granted most things that feel like "me" come from the amazing folks at free people...but honestly i am just drawn to anything eclectic and out of the ordinary...i inspire to be set apart and dress to the beat of my own drum...to just be me...

M: now and always, i draw inspiration from the 80's...the leather, lace, neon, spandex, leggings, ankle boots, pumps, big hair...you name it, i love it all!

5. What do you want to be when you're all growns up? (Tell me you got the Swingers reference people.)

L: I want to build an empire with my new fashion marketing and PR firm and I have no qualms about saying that. Mama isn't playin'. "Go big or go to sleep" is something that Brooke and I say as we have fondness for sleeping, a serious love and passion for slumber that runs deep. I want to have touched the world. I want to keep writing, always have fabulous hair to toss around and never stop believing in myself.

B: well for any oofa reader this is known...but if you are just meeting me...well my stunna shade needing future is all about cultivating and perfecting the 'mane' accessory!!! i actually have a multitude of goals for my future: owning a clothing boutique {with ms.unbeweavable herself.nodoubt} as well as a christian coffee shop are just a few ventures among various others...but to style the hair of the masses and own a salon is most definitely at the top of that list!!!

M: i want to be completely happy...having lived a life with little to no regrets....being true to myself...and never forgetting where i came from...and while we're at it, let's add a fabulous rack, gorgeous locks and youthful skin that radiates like a 20 something year old vampire (okay maybe not that sparkly).

6. What will we find when we visit your oh so fabulous blogs?

L: Ha...wow. Technically, I'm a fashion blogger and I should probably do lookbooks and things of that nature but I get so sidetracked as I have the attention span of again, a toddler. You'll find me. Everything, the good,the bad and the heartbroken, my newest victim I mean romance, make-up and hair advice, random writings, shizit talking, brutal honesty, cries for help (wow, don't I sound like fun?) universal questions. My heart basically explodes upon my blog once a week...as I said once on Twitter "Do you ever feel like your blog is the only friend who will never judge?" But I always bring it back to Fashion at some point. I'm lucky enough to have found this place where people get as excited about Balmain or dying my hair blonde as I do!

B: goodness what will you find?!?! truly you know...you just never can tell...every time i sit in front of the screen i just let my fingers take over and let them go with what comes to me that day...be it a story of hilarity that comes from my little ladies {penny:7/meghan:5}...or telling you about my sheer obsession for music...my latest fashion desires...or showing off my newest closet resident through bathroom photo sesh's...or basically whatever else possibly pops out of this nonsensical thought train of mine...my place is just that...my place...i am a late twenty.something.year.old gal on a constant road of self discovery...and while i may not use oofa as a venting outlet for all that is upside down in my world, it is always a place that i can go to get out of my own head for a while...and i am so very grateful to have it and have all of the amazing folks {badger or not} that i have met...they are forever friends that i am so very thankful to be able to share my bit o'crazy with...

M: dude, i’m about as random as they come. my blog is a mix of current trends, fashion obsessions, lust lists, many shizit talking sessions, tons of blunt honesty, silly stories from my so called life, heart wrenching inspirational posts that show my sweet side and of course shoes, lots and lots of shoes, with the occasional banana mention.

{thank you to Topshop, Net-A-Porter and shopbop for the photos}

And that my dear readers is your glimpse into the inner workings of the Badger Colony. I am certain that you can now see why I am ridiculously enamored with these girl crushes of mine and their fanfreakingtastic blogs! Many thanks to these lovely ladies for taking the time to answer my questions. Now, go hit up their blogs STAT. You know you want to!



p.s. Thank you sooooooo much for all the kind and supportive comments so many of you left on Monday regarding my Auntie. Your sweet words meant more to me than you'll ever know!

Heavy metal that won't hurt your ears!

Metal studs don't have to just be for your rocker cuff, spiked heels and leather pants! Ok so I've never been brave enough to try and squeeze into a hot pair of black slick pants. What can I say, the infamous Ross sweating in the pants episode of Friends ruined my vision forever. But why not bring some metal details off the dance floor and into your everyday? They can often bring in some layered texture to a room and open it up with reflected light.














This Pottery Barn beveled mirror is a steal and so sophisticated!















How great are these silver textured coasters? They would definitely bring some much needed edge to my coffee table!















A distressed mirrored dresser from Anthropologie looks fab!

Gold stripes on a Nate Berkus HSN pillow brings sparkle to a dull couch.












Subtle detail more your speed? Studs along a chair like this Overstock number, add an extra detail that gets noticed.

Pink Power Giveaway (Closed)

Sadly, I fear that by now most of us have been touched in some way or another by that nasty monster which is breast cancer. I lost my Auntie Loa to it a few years ago. She was the ultimate fashionista and one of my greatest sources of inspiration when it came to style. My Mom always said that I was more like her than my own Mom. I miss her every day. The above picture is the place that we reserved for her at my wedding. She may not have been there physically, but I know she was there with me in spirit and still is. My greatest hope is to see a cure in my lifetime. We've lost too many amazing women far too soon!

In honor of my Auntie I am giving away one Lisa For Loft Breast Cancer Bracelet. Check out the uber adorable Taylor Swift rocking hers. It is a lovely, vintage style, ribbon and chain bracelet with a distressed finish. It's a piece, I'm quite certain, my Auntie would have adored! As usual our giveaways are meant for BonBon readers, so if you are a new follower please let us know! This giveaway is open worldwide and will close on Saturday. Let us honor those we've lost and those who've survived!



Please excuse my pitiful Iphone picture. It's been a long teething filled and sleep deprived weekend. I wasn't up to downloading one from my camera. The joys of parenthood...

BonBon Deal(s) of the Day

I haven't shown Forever 21 any love in a while, so I thought today's as good a day as any. You regular readers know how much I looooooooove their bargain basement accessories. From scarves to statement necklaces, you'll find nothing over $10.00 in this post. That is what I call a heckuva deal! I went for over the top glamour items as I'm feeling less than glamorous at the moment and I thought perhaps they would inspire me to drag myself outta this messy Mommy slump that I'm in. It just may have worked. I think I'll start the glamorization process by taking a shower. Ah ha!

Ruffled Scarf



Bow Headband



Cocktail Ring



Crown Detailed Bangle



Drop Earrings



Pearl and Chain Necklace





p.s. I can't forget to share the amazing swag that I've lucked into lately. I won a gorgeous set of note cards from Fifi Flowers Design, a lovely brooch from pretty*pink*rat and an amazing Tolani scarf from Captivate Me. As if that all weren't enough, the Fabulous Finds Gal sent me a sampling of killer accessories from her vintage boutique simply out of the kindness of her heart. I'm a lucky lucky girl!

The Girl With the Flower in Her Hair

How do you like my oh so original post title? It's the end of the week, therefore my brain is fried. That's about as original as it's gonna get. Ah ha. Anyhoo, one of my very best friends is walking down the aisle in February and has decided that she wants to be a girl with a flower in her hair on her big day. I sported one on my big day as well, so I'm quite partial to the look.



I've found a whole bevy of floral beauties at Etsy that would work for a myriad of occasions, from a wedding, to New Year's Eve or simply for a day when you want to add a little something extra to your look. There's something so festive about adorning your tresses with a large statement piece! And check out the gorgeous bride to be in question with me on my wedding day. She is going to be the most stunning bride!



Etsy Shop Mandizzle {This is the one the bride is currently favoring. You may have seen it here.}



Etsy Shop TheUrbanTrends



Etsy Shop DanaCastle



Etsy Shop brendasbridalveils



Etsy Shop Lulusplendor



Etsy Shop KarmaKreationzInc



Etsy Shop onelittledove



Etsy Shop LovMely



Etsy Shop heartoflight



Etsy Shop Mandizzle





p.s. Today is the last day to enter our Perricone MD skincare product giveaway!

Anthro, you've got what I need!

Is it just me or once October hits does it seem like Christmas is here in no time flat? I feel like those couple of months just fly by. Now, that I've got the dude, time seems to speed past me even faster. I feel like it was just a moment ago that we were celebrating him saying his first word, it was ball in case you were wondering which I'm sure you were (ha ha), and now he's running around the house. And I do mean RUNNING. When he's not trying to escape me, he's calling his Dad on his play phone all day long. No joke, he "calls" the hubs a million times a day. Apparently I'm not that cool to hang out with...but I digress.

Since the holidays will shortly be upon us, I thought I would start to get my Christmas list together. I also wanted to look for some dressy ensembles, as the holidays usually brings at least a few occasions to get all dolled up. My Mom, sister and I try to go see the The Nutcracker every year and I'm hoping that my New Year's Eve is a WEE bit more exciting than last year. We were still newish parents and barely awake at midnight.

My first stop in my quest for shopping and gift ideas was Anthropologie. It also ended up being my last stop. I found so many delicious goodies that I decided not to look any further or this post would have been a mile long! I must say, however, even if none of these little beauties make it to my doorstep this year, I'll be just fine. I'm mucho blessed to have my family and most excellent friends!

Scattered Seed Necklace



Belle-Of-The-Ball Dress



Bookends Necklace



Studded Fete Dress



Spring Rain Earrings



A Thousand Tiers Dress



Center Stage Cuff



Lakefront Earrings {BonBon Deal of the Day: Only $28.00 for all that glitz!}



Crown Jewels Necklace



Bubble Wrap Scarf



Boucle Cape



Three-Star Apron



The Style Strategy by Nina Garcia





p.s. Go show my girl Liz some love today. She's celebrating her 200th post!

Update: A lot of you have expressed that you love Anthro but not its prices. Watch out for their sales! You can find some killer deals.

Taking on the Super Star Challenge

For years, I've claimed Gwyneth Paltrow as my celebrity idol. As far back as I can remember I've always admired her style, confidence, and of course ability to pick up an English accent for a role in no time flat. In my book, this girl rarely makes a faux pas and I mean seriously, it's time for the haters to let go of the fantastically pink Oscars gown. So, naturally when Gwyneth decided to pen Goop, a newsletter straight from the heart, I wasted no time signing myself up. What has baffled me since is how much negative press she's gotten for it. While it can be a little high brow at times requiring a true stretch of the brain, it's not like she's out there popping pills or stealing clothes like so many other starlets.

So, I decided it was time to put Gwyneth, the haters, and her beloved Goop to the test. On Oct. 15th she debuted some of her favorite Spanish recipes from when she was a foreign exchange student. The idea in Spain is that they serve lighter fare for dinner in the evening and really that's my preference after a long day filled with snacks that somehow add up. Thinking there is no way that she could truly have beauty, brains, a fab career, a singer/songwriter husband AND cooking skills, I decided to take her on.

The challenge: Cook and taste two of Gweneth's Goop recipes and share the results with BonBon readers.

1st up: Gambas al Ajillo (Garlic Poached Shrimp)

(Goop Photo & Recipe)














(Megan's Photo)











SERVES: 4 TIME: 10 minutes
1/2 cup good Spanish olive oil,
2 1/2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Pinch of your favorite red chili flakes,
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
Pinch of sea salt

Directions: Heat the olive oil with the garlic and chili in a large, heavy skillet over medium-low heat. When the aromatics just start to bubble, add the shrimp and sprinkle each piece with a little bit of salt. Cook for a minute and then turn each one. They should not be browning, just turning opaque. Cook for another minute on the second side. Remove the shrimp from the pan and discard all but two tablespoons of the oil. Turn the heat up to high and return the shrimp to the pan. Cook for about 20 to 30 seconds on each side, until just browned. Serve warm.

Up next: Pan con Tomate

(Goop photo and recipe)











(Megan's photo)












SERVES: 4 TIME: 10 minutes
1 baguette,
2 vine-ripened tomatoes,
1 large clove garlic, pushed through a press
3 tablespoons good Spanish olive oil, plus more for serving,
coarse salt & freshly ground black pepper

Directions: Cut the baguette in half lengthwise and then cut each half into four pieces. Grill the bread over medium-high heat or brown in your toaster.Meanwhile, cut each tomato in half and grate on the coarse side of a box grater into a bowl. Grate until all the seeds, juice and pulp are pressed through (discard the skins). Add the garlic and olive oil and season to taste with salt and pepper. You can add more garlic if you like. Mix the sauce together and spoon it over the grilled bread, sprinkling each piece with just a bit more coarse salt and drizzling with extra oil.

And (drum roll please) the results: Well, it looks like Gwyneth has done it again! Both recipes were extremely easy and over the top delicious. Served with a nice glass of white wine, the baguette and shrimp were the perfect weeknight dinner. The olive oil and garlic satisfy the comfort food craving but still keep it light. The husband gave both the dishes two thumbs up and is already requesting a redo next week. Sigh, I guess it really is possible to have it all and Goop will definitely continue to make it into my inbox each week!

Boom Boom Pow

Soooo many thanks go out to my fellow blogger Kristin! Lately I've been in the weeds. For those of you who never worked in a restaurant that's lingo for "up to my eyeballs in work, house guests, projects, and so far behind it would take a bull dozer, preferably with a strapping young Australian complete with accent and beers at the wheel, to clear a path wide enough for me to scratch and crawl my way out". And while she may not be a hot Australian man, K is always there to listen, help and talk to you BonBon readers on days when I can't get a sentence out to save my life. Although she does usually greet me with beer!

While I have been MIA on the site these past few days a few of my favorite sites have completely upstaged my slacking and debuted fab new looks! The nerve!

For any Washingtonian limited in decor selection, West Elm has become a new staple in home goods. Well, they just redesigned their site and the best new feature is that you can now shop by room and every little detail will be listed out! I just hate it when I have no interest in the pictured bed but love a vase above it on a shelf, but then find out its totally nonexistent. Well, no more! Also they have great new holiday items by David Stark that are drool worthy like this funky wreath. I know it's early but hey, its a really good wreath!















Another one of my favorite more high-end shops, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, just posted a video section on their site where you can now see the video catalog as well as listen to them talk about their new line of linens. Its not the most exciting video, but the products are divine and the music in the background is officially on my must download for a fun cocktail party list!















And last here is my random video of the day. A few days ago some friends were over with their 19 month old son. He's simply adorable and at the slightest sound of music started pumping out some killer dance moves. It was great and made me think of this kid on You Tube. While most of you are probably already familiar with this lil' dancing sensation, for those of you who aren't its worth a watch for a good laugh. This kid may just be the next JT!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIbFB112AtI&feature=fvw

Enjoy!

Fall, Where Art Thou?

Remember that gorgeous Fall weather I spoke of this weekend. It was simply a tease. We're back to shorts wearin' weather a mere few days later. Sigh. I should have known it was too good to be true.

Unfortunately, I've broken the seal. The seal that was my resolve not to shop. I was holding off on shopping for Fall, but holding off I am no longer. I assume that SOMEDAY I will be able to wear one of the glorious scarves I've been swooning over. Someday I will be able to rock the wicked hot houndstooth jacket that I only got to wear once last year. I'm an optimist...today that is. There's no telling if my foul temper aimed at the weather will return tomorrow. Ah ha.

I've featured some things from Modcloth that will probably be making an appearance in my closet soon, since I am unable to accept that it's almost Halloween and I'm hot in a tank top. What screams Autumn wear more than creamy oatmeals and chocolaty browns?

Tweed Coat



Paisley Scarf (Thanks to the gorgeous Miss Couture Carrie for inspiring me!)



Beanie



Fingerless Gloves



Eternity Scarf



Sweater Dress



Tights



Hoodie



Knee Socks



And for today's BonBon Deal of the Day I have this lovely over-sized ring. It's only $14.99 and would perfect to dress up a simple sweater and jeans ensemble.





p.s. Don't forget that today is the last day to enter our Perricone MD giveaway!

The Chain Gang

So, what's the first thing you think of when you see a chain? The iconic Chanel 2.55? The Gucci scarf? Something a little harder perhaps? Punk jewelry maybe? Well, for me it's none of the above. When I see a chain, I think of my purple, unicorn adorned, banana seated bike with the beautiful multi colored streamers. When I laid eyes on that big girl bike of mine it was love at first sight. My previous mode of transportation had been a Barbie Big Wheel. And while we had some good times, my Big Wheel and I, I was ready to move up in the world.

And move up in the world I did. I literally flew around our block the first time I took her for a spin. The world was my oyster. I was seeing things from a whole different perspective. I was several feet higher after all. My butt was no longer an inch above the sidewalk. I was really living large. After a few months of bliss though, it happened. On one of my normal summer evening rides something got caught in my baby's chain. The next thing I knew I was kissing the pavement. I limped home to my Mom and moodily stared at that bike as she applied peroxide to my skinned up knees.

Things were never quite the same with me and my baby after that. I eventually got back on that banana seat, but I couldn't shake feeling like I'd been betrayed. I had been hurt by something I'd loved. If only I had known that at six years old it would hardly be the last time I would be spurned by something I cared about. Ahhhhhh, the lessons we learn as wee ones that carry on into adulthood. Fortunately, I was able to move past the incident. Eventually, a pink Huffy came into and changed my life. While I loved that first bike of mine, it was the second bike that really stole my heart.

The hubs is like that pink Huffy. My first love turned out not to be THE one. It was my second love that really turned my world upside down. How's that for heavy? If you're reading this baby, your eyes do not deceive you. I did just compare you to a pink Huffy. I hope you get what high praise that is. Ah ha.

As a reward to you lovely readers for reading my nonsensical tangent of an anecdote, here are some chain themed beauties, since we're somewhat on the subject of chains and I hate to pass up an opportunity to feature some killer accessories.

Betsey Johnson Necklace at Nordstrom



Kenneth Cole Necklace



Topshop Belt



Free People Belt



American Apparel Bracelet



Banana Republic Bracelet