Mother's Day Gift List

Anyone whose met my mama falls in love with her. I always joke that "she could talk to a wall" because she will literally talk to anyone. She has a bubbly personality. So needless to say, we had a lot of fun shooting this. She was super excited about doing our Mother's Day shoot (and had to pick the perfect spot).  We laughed a lot and she learned how I do my blog posts. My mom is actually the one who encouraged me to create a blog in the first place. She's been telling me I should start a blog for years. So thanks mom!
      Mom's deserve so much more than one special day. As I get older, I appreciate my mom even more. Although I don't have kids, I wonder how she did it all. She never missed a dance recital, picking me up from school, or any game I cheered at. No doubt she has always put me first and pushed me to be the person I am today. Everything I am, I owe to my mom. I have my dad's personality but sometimes my mama comes out of me! People say we look a like too? I'll let you decide!
      For a pre-Mother's day surprise, I took my mom for a makeup session. We've talked about it for a while and I finally surprised her. My amazing makeup artist, Champa, was on board. She taught us some tips and tricks for doing our makeup. It was a great bonding experience where we could get all dolled up. I really love to gift experiences because those are memories you get to keep. Mom and I have had spa weekends, movie dates, and even a trip to New York. If you're still working on the perfect gift, think about doing a Mother's Day date with your mom. Take her to a movie, dinner, or a spa day. However, if you are more traditional, I have a few of my mom's favorite things:

Over $50

[1] Coco Mademoiselle Chanel Perfume: My mom's favorite perfume. She doesn't wear anything else. In fact. she gave me all her other perfumes. It smells really, really good. Mom always gets compliments on how good she smells. Even though it is a little pricey, it is a perfume that lasts. There are smaller bottles, as well. ($72.00) (http://www.chanel.com/en_US/fragrance-beauty/fragrance-coco-mademoiselle-coco-mademoiselle-88216)

[2] Kendra Scott Earrings: Mom and I both LOVE Kendra Scott. The pieces are so timeless. I suggest the smaller earrings for your mom. Most moms that I know tend to like the smaller earring better. I also really love this color. It can be worn with anything and versatile for the busy mom. ($55.00) (http://www.kendrascott.com/elle-earrings-in-white.html)

[3] Garden Stool: My mom loves patio furniture. She can decorate an outdoor space like nobody else can. This little garden stool is so stylish and festive for summer. Perfect for the outdoors mom! ($108.00) (http://www.pier1.com/Arabella-Garden-Stool---Blue/2587751,default,pd.html?cgid=garden-stools#icid=cat_outdoor-subcat_outdoor_decor-subcat_tile_garden_stools&nav=tile&start=1)

[4] Coral Dress: This is the exact dress my mom is wearing in our shoot. It's very light weight. She adores this dress and it's actually on sale.  ($66.00)(http://www.belk.com/AST/Main/Belk_Primary/PRD~18038857263454/crown++Coral+Reef+Dress.jsp?navPath=Women/Shop/Dresses/Casual&cm_mmc=SearchDex-_-Products-_-Casual-_-crown-ivytrade-coral-reef-dress-P18038857263454)

Under $50

[1} Alex and Ani: Alex and Ani's are a reasonable gift price wise and everyone loves them! I actually gave my mother-in-law one last year. Every type of mom loves these cute bangles. There are several options from initials, birth stone, or hobbies. I never met anyone who didn't love an Alex and Ani bracelet. ($28.00) (http://www.alexandani.com/bracelets/because-i-love-you-charm-bangle.html)

[2] Outdoor Pillow: Like I said earlier, my mom really enjoys decorating outdoor areas. These pillows are a great addition for an outdoor space. Pier 1 has tons of cute pillows for outdoor spaces.
($28.00) (http://www.pier1.com/Marisela-Embroidered-Pillow/3017235,default,pd.html?cgid=outdoor-pillows#sz=60&start=1)

[3] Monogram Sandals: Every mom can appreciate a cute pair of sandals. My mom loves monogram anything. We are southern women! If you love these too, place your order by this Tuesday to get your gift for Mother's Day. ($45.00) (https://marleylilly.com/product/monogrammed-embroidered-sandals/)

[4] Philosophy Body Wash: Philosophy body wash is my favorite and my mom's. She loves Amazing Grace but my current favorite is Frosted Animal Cracker. Sephora carries body wash, facial wash, and several other Philosophy products. ($25.00) (http://www.sephora.com/amazing-grace-bath-shampoo-shower-gel-P4682?skuId=463042&icid2=category%20search_bath%20&%20body:bath%20&%20shower:body%20wash%20&%20shower%20gel_p4682_image)



Happy Mother's Day to all the mamas out there! Enjoy your much deserved day! Thank you for reading.

** Don't forget to use promo code: DIAMONDS15 for 15% off your purchase at Sassy Fierce Boutique (cute dresses for mom!)
**Special thanks to Makeup by Champa for the makeup tutorial.

Weekend Update

WOW! What a weekend!? Totally was not prepared for all the fun and excitement this weekend had in store for me. I thought I'd share a little bit about my weekend for those interested:

Friday: Game Night! I talked about this a little in last Friday's post. We had an awesome time playing board games with our friends. We played Scrabble and my friend, Samy, defeated me. Literally, I came in fourth. So needless to say, I have to work on my vocabulary for the next round. We played Taboo which was hilarious. We lost that one too, by the way. However, that game really allows you to get to know people with several laughs a long the way. Anyways, we stayed up until 2am playing games and eating chips and salsa. I haven't done that in a long time but we were thankful to have friends who made it all worth while.

Saturday: Saturday I had my last Barristers Ball which is a formal dance- think prom for law students. It was a masquerade theme so I thought this black lace dress would be perfect. I'll share details at the bottom of this post for those who asked.  Mom and I picked this dress out a few weeks ago. It was kind of bittersweet because it was our last shopping trip to buy a formal gown. We've done it yearly since I was 16 for prom, sorority formals, my wedding, and Barristers Ball. It's a little surreal the formal days are over. But, I know much more fun is in store. Before, heading to Barristers, a few of my close law school friends met and took photos. We were still missing a bunch of our friends. It's become our tradition and some of my favorite photos every year. After getting to the ball, we danced our hearts out. I haven't danced so much in years but I was so happy! Almost everyone walked off the floor when "Raspberry Beret" by Prince came on but not me. I was out there dancing to 80s music like a disco queen. I love music like that and couldn't believe people didn't dance to it! Like, y'all forgot the good stuff!? Anyways, we danced and danced with all of our 3L friends which are memories I won't soon forget. I had pretty nice date too, so it worked out!

Sunday: Okay, now for the really good stuff. So I wake up Sunday and start getting ready because my parents were coming down for brunch. I was in such a good mood and still dancing to "Raspberry Beret" with my dogs. I'm a cool mom. Anyways, so my parents arrive and are ready to go. So we get in the car and start driving- my dad, mom, and Evan. I'm literally clueless. My dad says he needs to make a pit stop and return an owner's manual he ordered. So we pull up at a Mercedes-Benz dealership and we all get out of the car. Here I am strolling with my coffee, ripped jeans, and no lip gloss. We walk up to a car with a giant red bow on it. I'm not thinking anything of it besides car dealerships will do anything to catch your attention, including giant bows. Then my mom says "those balloons have your name on them." I was in shock. I said "what?" like three times before I realized that this car was mine. I have no idea what my reaction was because I honestly don't remember. I remember being so confused and thinking was this for real? I am still in that stage, by the way. I asked Evan like 90 times if he was serious? So standing in front of me was a new Mercedes-Benz GLA 250. Evan knew I needed a car and wanted to surprise me for graduation. He knew the stress and hard work I had put in to law school (which now was totally worth it).  My mom and dad even got me a Mercedes-Benz shirt in my favorite color. I am still in shock that he pulled it off so well (with some help from my sneaky parents). Evan is really really good at hiding big surprises (like our Honeymoon). He took my car into the "shop" on Friday. He told me that they needed a part and the shop would have to hold my car until Monday. Little did I know, he was trading my car for the Mercedes. He had been working on this surprise since March! Needless to say, it was the best surprise! I got my dream car! If you see some girl dancing down the road in a Mercedes.... it's me! (Excuse the pictures, they are not taken with my professional camera and I was not dressed for the occasion)

With a weekend like that, how is a girl supposed to go back to reality? It was the best weekend ever. So many memories and unforgettable moments. Have a wonderful week everyone!

[Dress]: Anjolique Bridal, [Earrings]: Kendra Scott, [Bracelet]: David Yurman 

** If you have any questions, please comment on my post. If you would like to collaborate, please email me at diamondsonhersoul.com. 

** Special thanks to Hendrick Mercedes-Benz of Northlake for the special gifts, card, and bow. Thank you for making the day even more special! 

Cheap Date Night Tips

With a super busy schedule, it can be hard to find time for your significant other. Although my time is valuable, my husband is WAY more important. We both try and spend quality time together no matter how busy or crazy our days are. He is my relief from what can sometimes be a crazy life. Sometimes I get tired of the regular dinner or movie. It's also really expensive! $40-50 for a movie? I have compiled some of my favorite cheap dates nights:


(1) Game Night:  I'm a super nerd and love board games. A few weeks ago, Evan and I bought a Scrabble board. Although I love board games, I had never played Scrabble. One weekend when I was really busy, we ordered pizza and played scrabble for a few hours. We had the absolute best time! We laughed at all the stupid words we made (Evan wouldn't let me use legal words). I found this cool list that has games for two people that I will link at the end of this post. Also, card games are great for two people. After our Vegas trip, we played card games all the time. Tonight, Evan and I are having a game night with another couple! Lot's of chips and salsa for everyone!

(2) Movie Fort Night: A few months after we got married, we had a movie fort date night. So basically, we got a bunch of pillows and blankets and laid them in the floor. We rented like two "kids" movies (we are kids at heart) and bought a bunch of box candy. We laid in floor, ate candy, and watched kids movie for a few hours. I kind of felt like a little kid at a sleepover with my best friend.

(3) Driving: I have always found that driving around with someone allows you to get to know them! A few weeks ago, we went and got ice cream (well he did, I brought my Rice Dream ice cream) and drove around through different neighborhoods. It was a great opportunity to talk about the things stressing us out and things we were excited about. We also had a jam session since we both love music. Perfect little date for those on a budget. This is a favorite during the Christmas season. We love to look at everyone's lights and decorations. It sounds silly but we always have the best in town.

(4) Park/Hiking Date: Evan loves the lake or actually any body of water in general. Anytime we can go to a park or something near the lake, he is all for it (like this photo shoot). We often will put our walking shoes on and wander around the walking track. We always takes our pups too. It's a great chance to get outside and get some fresh air. Like driving, its fun to talk while we walk about what we have going on. We go to different parks for a change of scenery. We also love hiking. Last summer, we went with two groups of our friends to different local Mountain Parks (we also got caught in the rain, once). We often will take a snack or something to eat at the top of the mountain and relax.

(5) Find a Show: As crazy as it seems, find something to watch that you can both get into. Often we find our own shows (aka. Bachelor) and don't share those with our spouse. It's kinda cool when you both can bond over some silly show or podcast. Evan and I have been addicted to Serial podcasts. We have listened to the first season and are now on season two. It's really fun because we get to discuss and share our points of view on the case (law nerd alert). I highly recommend the series. Also, Netflix shows to bond over are fun too. Every night while we eat dinner, we watch a 30-40 minute show. It gives us something to look forward to and a break from the chaos. It's kind of like a short little date every night. Our favorite shows are Friends, Once Upon a Time, and The Office.

Have a wonderful weekend and date night! What are your date night favorites?

[Shorts]: Red Dress Boutique, [Shirt]: Lilly Pulitzer (similiar), [Bracelet]: Alex and Ani, Shop Melvin, [Shoes]: Target, [Purse]: Ralph Lauren, [Earrings]: Kendra Scott, [Necklace]: Kendra Scott

** Click links for outfit details. Sign up for emails directly to your inbox. 

** Games for Couples link: http://tolovehonorandvacuum.com/2013/01/two-player-games-to-play-with-your-husband/

Housewife Status

     Well I am far from being a housewife but this cute little dress has the housewife vibe. This spring dress is from Stay Fierce Boutique out of Cary, North Carolina. They have really cute dresses, jumpers, and rompers. This is the "Audrey Dress" and I am wearing a size small for reference. I liked this dress because it was a dress that is versatile for work, weddings, showers, or church. The dress is very comfortable and light--perfect for the summer. Pop a blazer on and you are ready for work or pair with heels and you are wedding ready. Stay Fierce Boutique is offering a 15% discount with the promo code: DIAMONDS15 for all Diamonds on Her Soul girls!
     I'm still getting tons of compliments on these shoes. Every time I wear them people comment. They are Valentino dupes for MUCH cheaper. Nordstrom has several colors and even flats if you don't like heels. I'm thinking of buying a pair of flats for summer.
     My necklace and earrings are Kendra Scott. The opal white color is a very classic look that goes with everything. If you want to invest in a piece, this is the color because you can wear it with everything. When I first got the necklace I wore it for two weeks straight. I finally had to say Megan--you have to wear something else! My bangles are Kate Spade. They were both gifts (great gifts--if I might add). The knot bracelet is a perfect way to ask your bridesmaids to be apart of your big day (I can't tie the knot without you!). It's how I was asked to be apart of my friends wedding day. Super cute!
      I hope everyone had a great weekend! We enjoyed a Charlotte Knights baseball game with friends on Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, I watched/judged a mock trial competition. I was so exhausted but I had a great time. It's always awesome to see others take part of something you love and anyone who knows me knows I love a good trial!

[Dress]: (C/O) Stay Fierce Boutique (Use Promo Code: DIAMONDS15 for 15% off your purchase), [Shoes]: Nordstrom, [Sunglasses]; Francescas, [Necklace & Earrings]: Kendra Scott, [Bracelets]: Kate Spade

** All opinions and reviews are my own. Special thanks to Stay Fierce Boutique for their collaboration. Click photos for links to products. 

The Queen City

   

      Recently Charlotte has been in a lot of politically controversy. However, I want to share all the wonderful things about Charlotte rather than the negative. I love my city! I am not originally from Charlotte but I grew up in a surrounding area. I remember as a little kid, we would drive by Charlotte on the way to the beach or some trip. I would look up at the skyscrapers in awe. Never dreamed that one day I'd be in the city daily. I still think about that when I drive into the city and see the beautiful skyline. It honestly always takes my breath away even though I've driven it countless times.
     The Queen City has so much to offer and is continually growing with young professionals. I wanted to share all the things that make Charlotte a wonderful place to call home:

(1) Sports: If you love sports, Charlotte is the place to be. Charlotte is home to the Carolina Panthers NFL Team (#88 Greg Olsen is my Favorite), the Charlotte Hornets NBA Team, the Charlotte Checkers (Hockey), Charlotte Knights (Baseball), NASCAR, Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow (Golf), and college sports. There is always something to do sports related. As the Hornets closed out their regular season two nights ago, the Charlotte Knights opened season yesterday. Tonight I'll be watching the Charlotte Knights take on the Durham Bulls at a rooftop event. Even if you don't love sports, the atmosphere is amazing. Charlotte has classy fans (for the most part- always a few bad apples) who make the events fun and enjoyable.

(2) Food: With one of the top culinary schools in our backyard, Charlotte has exceptional food. We enjoy the Queen City Feast and Charlotte Restaurant Week, where you can go to a really nice restaurant on a lower budget. It always books up weeks in advance. One of my favorite local places is 5 Church. When family came to visit Charlotte, this is where we took them. The food is really great and the atmosphere is nice, as well. I also love Luciano's for a good Italian meal.  For a quick meal, Vida in the Epicenter is one of my favorites. I love Mexican food. The cool thing about Vida is that you can get quick-service or sit-down service.

(3) Amelie's: Yes, Amelies gets its own bracket. Amelie's is an excellent place to grab a coffee or pastry. They also serve sandwiches as well. They recently opened a new location and it's amazing. I love the French antique decor. They have an amazing selection of desserts from macaroons, eclairs, cupcakes, brownies, etc. My personal favorite and what Amelie's is known for is the Salted Carmel Brownie (they have gluten free ones). Amelie's is a wonderful place to study. One location is 24 hours a day--amazing for students. Almost every finals season I end up at Amelie's studying with my girls.

(4) Shopping: Of course, I didn't forget shopping! Charlotte has wonderful shopping locations from little boutiques to large department stores. SouthPark Mall is our local central mall which has everything from Nordstrom, Louis Vuitton, Neiman Marcus, Tiffany's, and so much more. If you are looking for more high-end items, SouthPark is your place. We also have Northlake Mall (apparently we like directions here) which is the more average type mall with your local Dillards, Belk, etc. Finally, one of my favorite shopping destinations is Birkdale Village (outside of Charlotte). It's in an out door setting but a lot of what is on my blog comes from Birkdale because I love the local shops. Stone Crest at Piper Glen has a similar feel and offers a great selection of local stores if you live in the Ballantyne area.

(5) Entertainment: We have a lot of local arenas from Time Warner Cable Arena to the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater so a lot of big names come to town. You can see Taylor Swift, Dave Matthews Band, and many more when they tour. But if you love country music, Coyote Joe's is the place to see country stars. I saw Sam Hunt and Thomas Rhett at Coyote Joes for a few girlfriend's birthdays. The venue is small so we were up pretty darn close. I love Sam Hunt and Thomas Rhett, so it was a really awesome experience. Grab your boots and go!

Those are only a few of my favorite things about Charlotte. There is so much more to explore and do. How can you not love the Queen city?

[Dress]: Apricot Lane (similiar dresses linked in top two photos), [Shoes]: Francescas, [Bracelet]: Loren Hope, [Earrings]: Marley Lilly (similar linked)

** Click on photos for direct links. For collaboration, contact me at diamondsonhersoul@gmail.com.