Current Sales Styles {All Under $50}

If you follow my Facebook page, you might have seen where I talked about shopping this time of year.  I feel like we're in that in-between period...no longer back-to-school shopping, but not yet quite full-blown holiday shopping.  Yet, my kids have seemed to hit a growth spurt recently and this momma is discovering some "holes" in her closet....thus, some shopping is warranted.
For the kiddos, Old Navy and Children's Place are running some good deals right now.  As for me (and my all lady friends), there are some amazing deals and steals for fall clothing.  October isn't normally a big sale month, but I've come across these cute, on-trend, and versatile pieces (below) for all under $50!  Some are limited on sizing, but always check back if stores are out-of-stock...lots of times they'll restock a popular item.  I have my eye on that red plaid top (Madewell), and I already own #5 and #8 which I can vouch for their quality and function!  Happy shopping friends and have a great rest of the week!!!

{Click on each individual item to shop}

Shop these styles:

5 Tips To Shop Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts tomorrow, and while it might not be on your radar (yet), I want to share some of the reasons it's truly the BEST SALE EVER...and tips on how to best take advantage.  This sale not only provides the opportunity to get a jump on fall fashion for a fraction of the price, but with the free shipping (and easy returns) Nordstrom offers, it's kind of a no-brainer.  Nordstrom is my favorite store hands down...always on trend, high quality, great customer service, plus fab sales like this one held annually!

1.  Tomorrow when the sale starts, take some time to go through a make a wish list.  If you are on a budget, just set your filter "under $50" or something similar.  Nordstrom has all sorts of price points and I usually get tops there for under $30 during this sale!  Hand that list over to your hubby or use it as a guide to keep an eye on the items you really want.
2.  When unsure, order more than you need.  For example, last year I couldn't decide between 3 different pairs of booties, so I ordered all 3 of them.  Once I tried each on, it was clear which was the winner and I easily sent back the others free of charge...lickity split!  Not only does this save you buyer's remorse and the hassle of driving to your nearest Nordstrom, but you get the flexibility you would as if you're in the store yourself!
3.  Use the filter to search your favorite (and/or most budget-friendly) brands.  Nordstrom has tons of brands (Lush, BP, Caslon) that are both affordable and on point style-wise!  Strategically shopping in this was will save you time and allow a focus on your particular niche of brands/price-point/etc.
4.  Take advantage of "early access" starting tomorrow (7/14).  Early access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is for Nordstrom cardholders.  I personally have a Nordstrom debit card and get points every time I use it in the store or online.  You receive rewards and special perks as a card holder...namely getting to shop the sale before everyone else and before things start selling out!  (July 22 starts the sale for non-cardholders.)
5.  Check out the fall trends or looks you'd like to add to your closet this year.  For me, I have my eye out for some new booties, a really great flat, some cute tops, and a cute dress or two.  When you plan for what you "need", you can shop more intentionally and smart.

>>> Stay connected via Facebook and Instagram as I will be posting throughout the next couple of weeks all the deals, steals, and finds from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!  Can you tell I'm excited!!!!????


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Birthday Wish List | 2016

It's almost that time of year again...halfway across the year from Christmas.  JULY.  My birthday month!

While I have a short list of things I'll ask for my birthday (mostly from my husband), here's my actual  full wish-list (like a shooting for the stars wish list) I'm sharing with you today.  I usually keep a "secret" Pinterest board with things I'm either saving up for or have on my wish-list...I also keep an Amazon wish list.  If you also do something similar, it's good to let those sit for a while to make sure you do actually want to pull the trigger on them, rather than just an impulse buy.  Does anyone else do this?  Writing it out makes me feel reeeeaaaaaaalllly materialistic.  But hey, birthdays only come once a year, right?

So without further ado...My 2016 Birthday Wishlist!

^^^ Aren't these just fabulous!?!  You probably have seen them on Instagram with all their witty posts.  Make sure to check out Letterfolk! ^^^

^^^ Loving this bar necklace from Handstamped Gold ^^^

^^^ I have some knock-off Birks I got from Target last year that I really liked...but quality doesn't last that long with those.  AND, I'm needing some better support.  So Birkenstocks it is. ^^^

^^^ If you follow my Instagram account, I often mention how great I am about killing plants.  BUT, I've turned over a new leaf. (pun intended)  I've managed to keep a succulent, a fiddle leaf fig, and a plumeria alive for over a month, so I'm thinking I might have the hang of it...maybe. Pressing my luck, I'm wanting to get a snake plant for the house too! ^^^

^^^ Too many times lately, I've wished I had a waterproof camera, namely a Go Pro.  We've been in the water LOTS this summer so far, and I hate to risk my own camera or phone to get the good shots...plus video! ^^^

^^^ And again on the outdoor activities, this HydroFlask I've had my eye on for a while.  I've heard they're the bomb dot com on keeping drink COLD for the longest time! ^^^

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Holiday Gift Guide: Teen Girls

As a follow up to my holiday gift guide for men (perfect for all the dads, brothers, husbands in your life), I've gotten together gift guides for those hard-to-buy-for teens as well!  Today is all about teen girls (stay tuned for teen boys)...and can I just say I'm loving some of these options for myself too!  I sure hope this gift guide makes your Christmas shopping a bit easier and efficient, as you can shop it from the comfort of your own home.  All the featured gifts (except one) have free shipping, so happy shopping in your jammies!  AND all are UNDER $50!

{Click on each image to shop or check out the links below}

 

-MAC EYESHADOW PALLETTE // $39.50
-SHERPA CARDIGAN // $23.99
-GOLD PLATE INITIAL NECKLACE // $38
-SLEEP MASK // $19
-BRAID BOOK // $16.95
-STILA LIP GLOSS // $18
-PLUSHIE STICKERS // $15
-LEOPARD SCARF // $20
-SELFIE STICK // $12.99
-WIRELESS SPEAKER // $29.99
-MAKEUP POUCH // $17.99
-MINNATONKA MOCASSINS // $42.95 



 

5 Online Boutiques You Need to Know About

I follow quite a few online boutiques on Instagram (I find that they put their best stuff on there), so naturally I start remembering the ones that consistently post really unique and amazing clothing.

And I wouldn't be doing my duty to all you fabulous readers of mine if I didn't share, now would I?

So here's 5 of my favorite online boutiques along with a couple of my picks from their shops.  Maybe you've heard of some or maybe you haven't...so hopefully you can find something that suits your fancy, or the fancy of someone special.  Make sure to click through to the shops, as these are just my individual picks.

Hello, Christmas is knocking on the door people.

Psst-The Mama Bird tee is my fave!

Sincerely Jules:

Noonday Collection:

Moorea Seal:

Sly Fox Threads:

Style Lately:

Which of these shops sticks out to you? All of them, right? Make sure to follow them on Instagram for all their promos...it's the best way to snag one for a good chunk of a discount!
This has been a PSA...you're welcome, friends!

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Things Of Which You Should Be In The Know

Happy Hump Day!  Today I'm blogging my favorite way...in a LIST! There are a few things (some time-sensitive) that I want to make sure to get out to all of y'all...and also just some little tidbits to brighten your day! Ready?  Here we go!
ONE >>>  If you haven't already taken advantage of the Lime Ricki Swimwear 15% discount code, you have until the 18th (two more days) to use it.  The code is THEMRS15.  You can see my Lime Ricki swimsuit HERE, which I adore, but also have recently fell in love with this black fringe one!
TWO >>>  My birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks (Blake's is Monday!!!!!), and things are a bit different this year, as I am finding myself wanting more stuff for the house rather than things for myself as gifts.  I'm hosting a shower soon and the pressure incentive to get everything how I want it is at full max!  Here's a few things I'm asking for for my 33rd birthday (In typing that, I initially wrote 34 and then had to seriously do the math back from 1981...I think it's a sign of the end people).

THREE >>> Speaking of wishlists, the sale of all sales is going on right now at Nordstrom!  I've made my own list of "best of" picks from their anniversary sale that you can check out HERE, which include my favorites for Him, Her, and the Kids. What do you plan to get for yourself?
FOUR >>> Since seeing all the cute French-inspired outfits on Bastille Day, I've been on the lookout for the perfect stripe top....and y'all, I think I've found it for only $25!  Isn't it just the best and super versatile?!?  (click on image to follow link)

FIVE >>> At Bunco a few weeks back I literally lost my mind about "Are You Kitten Me Right Meow", and have not been able to get it out of my mind.  I try to work it into conversations but start giggling too much and can never get the whole thing out of my mouth.  I don't know why it's so hilarious to me...I hate cats.  But even being as anti-feline as I am, I'd still sport this tee in a heartbeat.

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Must-Have Shoes for Summer >>> Five Under $50

It seems like every summer my footwear consists of a select handful of shoes that stay on rotation up until boots are fashionably and socially acceptable once again...which here in Texas, isn't until late November.
Today, I've rounded up 5 pairs of my favorites that will be sure to cover any and all occasions throughout your summer. And guess what? They won't bust your wallet either, being ALL UNDER $50! Shoe shopping on a budget...not much better than that, my friends.

one // White Chucks two // Saltwater Sandals (just got mine in Red!) three // Black ankle strap heels four // Gold flip flops five // Tan wedges

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5 Best Mother's Day Gift Round Ups

Happy Cinco de Mayo!!!! (insert obnoxiously loud grito here.)
Well guys, I prematurely bragged on myself for thinking of Mother's Day so far ahead.  Here we are 6 days out, and I've still got nothing.  Shame on me.  But I've done some research on my potential gift options, and I've narrowed it down a bit...of course I'm going to share!!!!
Here are my top 5 gift ideas/round ups for Mother's Day:

1.  Austin Moms Blog:  What Mother's REALLY Want for Mother's Day
2.  Book a Mommy & Me Photo Session:  I'm doing mini sessions for this purpose next week and think it can be for ALL ages, especially adult children.  I'm sure most photographers offer something similar, so check into it with your local photographers!
3.  Good Life, A Style Blog:  A Gift Guide for the Stylish Momma
4.  Funny Etsy finds:  This "sibling" mug makes me giggle...and I adore this "like mother, like daughter" card!
5.  Sentimental Etsy Finds:  Mommas will love this sweet card...and I've never seen anything like this voice wave art...both are so touching!
Do you have your Mother's Day gift ideas/plans already?
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What Time Is It?

This one's for you, Dena....
I tend wear my watches into the ground.  I've never had more than one at a time.  My daughter shattered my last one (a two-toned Bulova), and I feel like my current watch is on its last leg...er, link.  So naturally, I've been eying watches...in fact, I've put a few on my wish list board.  The thing is though, I'm not sure what style I like now.  I've done the oversized gold Michael Kors style for about four years now...I think it's time for a new look.
Here's a few that caught my eye... Which are your favorites?

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6

A Hump Day List

1.  I've eluded to having my plate pretty full lately, right?  Well, I thought I'd let you in on one of my other projects I'm busy with these days.  I've recently taken on the job of event manager for Austin Moms Blog and am in the trenches, so to speak, of planning our very first official Moms Night Out next Thursday.  It's taken a lot of my time, but I'm excited for this opportunity and the possibilities it brings!  And if you're in the Austin area, please buy your tickets and show your pretty face there! I promise it will be worth it!

2.  Speaking of projects, the Caring For The Cranes benefit is this Saturday.  We have our last meeting today and I'm so proud of the efforts and love that people....strangers even...have put towards this family's cause.  Because of the money raised so far (not even taking into account what we'll make at the benefit), the Crane mom will be able to quit her job and solely focus on her children in need.  What a blessing that is for them!

3.  I've positively decided I absolutely love having a full schedule booked with my photography business (another item on my plate).  I know that this time of year is the "busy season" for sessions, but feel like I'm truly settling into my passion and talent, so hopefully this trend can continue year-round. (Below: A recent family session I did...they were so cute!)

4.  I'm still wanting pining over some red booties.  Particularly these from Sole Society.  Did I mention I'm on a shopping freeze?  For myself, that is....because if that weren't the case, my family would be out of luck for Christmas presents.  So yeah, if someone wants to just send those to me, I'll consider it an early Christmas gift and we can be best friends...and possibly put you in my will.  I'm a size 8.  :)

5.  Oh and do you know what????  News flash, it's mid-November y'all!  How on Earth did it get to be half way through the month already???  What this means to me is that I'm severely behind in the Christmas department...like on the verge on panic.  No decor up yet, not a single gift bought...or thought of for that matter (although I think I get points for starting my yearly spreadsheet), and I am needing to get on the Christmas card picture taking ball asap. Come on Kristen, get it together.

What kind of progress have you made on your Christmas to-do list??? Please tell me you haven't made any and I'll feel better about myself.

*Psst....If you're a fan of Christmas music (I, myself, am a recovering Christmas music antagonist, so I totally get it if you're not)...check out my favorite Pandora Christmas stations HERE.

16 Must-Haves You Should Be Buying at Anthro Right Now

The other night when my mom and I had our little date, we mozied into Anthropologie, where I promptly keeled over and went to Anthro heaven.
I mean, sure, that store is always great and wonderful and makes me want to live there forever with my family of 6...
But this time was even more ridiculous.  If that's even possible. It most likely has to do with my affinity for fall clothes combined with the uniqueness of all of the pieces they have right now...
But good gracious...I didn't stand a chance.  Thankfully, my mom bought several things (I'm on a shopping freeze), so I'm chomping at the bit for her to wear them first, so I can get a hold of those babies!
Alright, deep breath....I got all excited putting together this post, so bear with me. Here's a little snippet of my favorites at Anthro right now. (I actually took phone pics of everything I loved like a creeper, but I figured you'd maybe want the details.)

Happy Shopping!!!!

Another Reason I Love July {A Birthday Wish List}

My birthday is coming up in a few weeks...the big 3-2.  A real milestone, huh?
Since I've been in my thirties, I've always tried to remember what my mom was like at my age.  When she was 32, I was 6...the age of my second daughter, whom I'm fairly certain will vividly remember me as I am now.  I'd like to think I have better hair than my mom did at this age...it will be too soon if perms never come back.  As with most girls born in the 80's, perms were not specific to moms.  Oh no.  They were often inflicted on unsuspecting children in the name of beauty.  Psh.  From the trauma of my childhood hairstyles, I have vowed never to
a. cut bangs on my girls b. perm their hair c.  EVER
But I'm getting off topic.  Today's post is about my upcoming birthday....or my wish list for my birthday, rather.  (See last year's here.)  Things on this year's birthday wish list are more necessities, kind of....oh alright, they're wantessities.

Quelques Fleurs-I haven't worn perfume since I had my son, and I've always loved this scent. Camera Lens-I have the 50mm/1.8 lens, but it just doesn't get the sharpness I need.  The 85mm/1.8 would be great, but for now, I'd love this one. Madewell Tote-I saw this baby when we were in Georgetown and instantly fell in love.  I don't need another tote...but she's sure a beauty isn't she? Briggs & Riley Transcend Luggage (not pictured)-My one and only piece of luggage is missing a wheel which makes airport navigation (and exiting elevators) tricky and quite awkward.  I've heard these are the best.
**************************
Also today, I'd like to introduce to you one of this month's sponsors....a new fashion deal site called Stylzoo.  They offer stylish finds for under $20 (you read that right).  Stylzoo's philosophy is that fashion empowers each individual, and their mission is to get the best personally selected fashion pieces 30-90% off retail prices, as soon as possible. Unlike other deal sites, all of their items are in stock and are ready to ship!  My favorite thing about this new company is that they handpick each product they sell, ensuring quality.
Stylzoo is offering The Mrs. & The Momma readers a 20% discount with the code twenty4u.  Like I said, all of their finds are under $20, so if you do the math, this discount offer makes it even more of a huge steal!  Be sure to check out their current feature-colored denim, of which they pride themselves in knowing the best fit and quality of denim that customers love.
Happy Shopping!!!!

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9 For Nine

Even though our anniversary was over a week ago, I thought I'd just brag on my husband a little bit and let you in on what he did for me... I was completely blown away!!!
Since this was our 9th anniversary, he did a 9 day count down of gifts for me.  Some of them were little, some more meaningful, and some just things I've been wanting for a while.

And the last one was sort of not planned.  I really think he didn't know what he was going to do for the actual "day of" anniversary gift besides going on a date, but the situation kinda fell in our lap and was too good to pass up.

  And I ain't complaining!
We had been talking about "someday" getting a burb just because the space in the back of our Yukon was so tiny...and with our family of 6, we acutely felt that lack of space on a daily basis.  I really like this new car (and I'm sure it will continue to grow on me), but I get really attached to vehicles, so I'm still mourning the loss of "Blue Steel." ( We were notified she was already sold.)
Two side notes to mention: 1.  Due to my husband's stellar car detailing skills, I think our trade in price was more than what it would have been...and at the time he did it, we weren't even planning on all of this!!!
2.  In case you're feeling a little sorry for my husband right about now, fear not...he got some decent gifts.  I wasn't anywhere as creative as he was, but I tried to make him feel special, too....and I think that's one of the most important things in a marriage, don't you?
He also made it clear that I shouldn't expect this every year....A disclaimer I think he could have waited a couple of weeks to drop.  (Way to take the romance out of it, Honey.)  Part of me wants to be outraged and shout, "You think I take it for granted and would assume you'd do all of this every year???  What kind of spoiled wife do you think I am!?!  Psh!")
And the other part of me wants to ask, "Why not?"
(kidding....)
(not really....)
(okay, I wouldn't be mad if...)
(Nevermind...we've still got a year.)

You Better Watch Out, You Better Not Cry

You better not pout I'm telling you why...

I've compiled my OFFICIAL The Mrs. & The Momma Christmas wish list.  (However, I expressly hold the right to amend this list in the event that I may or may not have bought one of these items for myself already.)  I find it so hard to think of thoughtful gifts for others, so I hope to alleviate that reciprocal difficulty for my family members by providing some suggestions.

1.  Shabby Apple Tinsel Town skirt

2.  Erin Condren Life Planner

3.  Hunter Wellies

4.  Kiki La'Rue Lenore Infinity Scarf

5.  BonLook Honeybadger eyeglasses

6.  Aldo Viersen Boots

7.  Tune Belt iPhone Armband

8.  Corilynn Awning Skirt

If you remember my birthday one a few months back, it's apparent that several of those carried over to my Christmas list. ahem.  If any fall through the cracks this time, I guess there's always New Year's.
Oh, you don't give gifts for New Year's?

Yeah, we don't either.  I was just testing you.

And do you know what I heard?

He's coming.....

He's coming to town.