Aromaflage: Fragrance with Function

If you've ever struggled to go to sleep, raise your hand. Me too, y'all. That's why when I stumbled upon Aromaflage botanical sleep fragrance, I knew immediately that I had to share it with you. Aromaflage is fragrance with function, and it's a great new way to rest peacefully and comfortably in an all natural way. 

Co-founder and husband, Mikey, of the husband-wife entrepreneur team, Mikey & MoMo, always had trouble sleeping. After discovering that sleep aids left him groggy, he looked to find an alternative, and found it in natural essential oils like lavender. And that's how Aromaflage's botanical sleep fragrance was born. The Aromaflage sleep fragrance is made with scents like French Lavender, Brazilian Rose, & Madagascar Vanilla. It's a relaxing scent and because it's all natural, it can be sprayed on everything from your body to your bed. Simply spray it on or around your sleeping space 10 minutes before bed and prepare for a soothing night's sleep. 

I don't know about you guys, but I am always looking for ways to make my sleep experience better and more peaceful. I've tried everything from leaving my phone far away from my bedside table to sipping on bedtime tea to reading to melatonin. I love that the Aromaflage fragrance doesn't force me to change any of my habits and just becomes a seamless part of my routine. Another added bonus? Aromaflage sleep botanical's packaging is small enough that it can travel with you. If you're like me, travel sleep is always the worst sleep, so to know that I can toss Aromaflage into my travel bag ,and it's TSA approved is a major bonus. 

Aromaflage has other products, too, and with spring here and summer on its way, you're going to want to pick up a bottle of their Aromaflage fine fragrance that also repels insects! Their daytime fragrance is full of natural, botanical essential oils that by their very makeup, repel pests like mosquitos. Aromoflage's fragrance is free of toxins, too.  

I'm over the moon excited about this company, and I know you're going to be scooping up a bottle or two faster than you can swat a mosquito. Pack their travel size in your purse and head outdoors, y'all! Then rest easy that night with the botanical sleep fragrance. Done and done. 

Aviate

Living in Atlanta, it's pretty par for the course that we refer to our town as ATL. Not only do we have the busiest airport in the world (literally), but the airport code ATL has worked its way into our culture in such a way that we use it often and refer to it lovingly. 

Apparently, though, we're not the only city referring to our hometown by those three little airport letters, and southern hat brand Aviate has noticed. Founded by Ben Lancaster in Birmingham, Alabama, Aviate is putting a new twist on hometown pride. The company puts airport codes on hats, and Ben notes that while wearers of his goods love representing their hometown, they also appreciate the world of travel and exploring new things.  Ben says, "Aviate allows any person, no matter who you are, take pride in the place(s) that they love the most. That is something that will never go away."

And even though it's an unfair question, I asked Ben to tell me a little bit about his favorite hat, he says, "Currently, other than my home city Birmingham (BHM), I would probably say Miami for a couple of reasons. 1) I have family in Miami, so it gives me a legit excuse to rep that city. 2) I love everything that Miami has to offer and allows you to experience. The food, the culture, the people you get to meet from all over the world, getting to use my Spanish in a realtime setting, the weather, salsa dancing...I could go on and on. Miami is truly one of my favorite American cities thus making it my favorite hat to wear." His answer made me smile and gave me a glimpse into his passion for his company. I love the idea of wearing different hats to represent cities that you love or dream about or can't wait to visit again; it's all about making the brand yours. 

Be on the lookout for Aviate hats coming in many different colors: black, green, charcoal, even silver. And don't think Ben is stopping there. He's got a ton of other ideas up his sleeve including apparel and travel gear.  

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of enjoying a staycation in Atlanta with a little help from my friends at Southeast Toyota. I drove a RAV4 around some of the best eats, landmarks, and haunts in Atlanta, and figured what better accessory to have with me than an ATL hat? Stay tuned for my series about my Atlanta staycation, and in the meantime, pick up your own Aviate airport code hat here. 

Spot on and notable: Betsywhite Stationery

When I stumbled upon Gia at Swoozies back in the spring, I knew immediately that I wanted to share her beautiful stationery line with you. Her cheeky cards and prints along with her latest balloon line (!!!) is right up your alley. As an Atlanta-based online shop, I just know that you're going to adore everything Betsywhite Stationery has to offer! Take a peek at her spot-on and notable feature below.

Tell me a little about yourself. 

Hi! my name is Gia Graham, and I'm the owner of Betsywhite Stationery. I was born and raised in Barbados and currently live in Atlanta with my hubby, kiddo, and two pups. I spend my days designing greeting cards, stationery. and other giftable goodies which can be found in my online shop or in neighborhood stores around the country.

When did you realize that you were ready to open your own business? What gave you that final push?

In 2004 I was working at a design firm, found myself completely disillusioned with corporate design, and felt like I needed to make a change. One of my co-workers (and great friend to this day) was feeling the same way, and together we hatched a plan to make our great escape. Despite our creative frustration, we were both quite fond of health insurance and steady paychecks so we were in no rush to quit. We took our time to get the framework of the business started and chipped away at it bit by bit for almost a year. Getting laid off in 2005 gave me the push to just go for it. I now run the business solo and the focus of the business has changed since those early days (at that time we were doing primarily custom wedding invitations), but I've never regretted taking that leap!

What is your vision for your brand?

My vision is to cultivate a brand with a clear aesthetic and a loyal customer base. We all have brands we are devoted to – for example, some people (myself included) head directly to the Apple store if they need a new computer or others might drive past Dunkin' Donuts because they just love Starbucks – I'd like Betsywhite to become one of those brands.

Do you ever want a brick and mortar shop or do you love the online experience? 

Thus far, I haven't had the desire to open a brick & mortar shop. I quite like the online experience because it truly gives your brand the opportunity to be global. I've had orders from Australia, Japan, Sweden and several other countries... all thanks to the world wide web.

What's your next big thing that shoppers can expect?

I'm really excited about the line of balloons that I've had in the works for a while now. All your summer shindigs are gonna get super cute!

What is your favorite product thus far?

I'm still completely smitten with the Mail Flar™ stickers – I find any excuse to use them on my own outgoing mail. I have a new set of gold oversize Flair Flags in production which will launch this summer and I can't wait to use them!

Who/what would be your ultimate collaboration?

There are so many brands and designers out there who I admire! I think the ULTIMATE would be to create a collection for Target.

What helps you maintain your brand identity? 

I think a lot of it comes naturally. I tend to gravitate towards clean design, white space, good typography and warm (sometimes unexpected) color palettes... so those things often come through in whatever I do. I also step back and look at things as a whole (for example, I will occasionally scroll through my Instagram feed) to see if it all feels cohesive. It helps to do those 'style checks' every once in a while.

What advice do you have any advice for anyone looking to start their own business or brand?

Having the talent is the easy part – it takes grit to keep a business going. It's not always easy but it can be truly rewarding.

What is one thing every stylish woman should have?

Confidence... and good posture.

What is your favorite southern dish?

Fried anything!

*final 3 photos courtesy of Betsywhite Stationery*

Devon Maryn

While I don't quite believe in being bikini ready, I am almost always more motivated in the summer to be and stay active. Maybe it's the warmer temps or maybe it really is the longing to look good in my suit, but whatever it is, I find myself working out more and more...which can only mean one thing: I need more workout clothes! 

 

Over the past few months, I have absolutely adored following along with Devon Maryn as she prepares to launch her new activewear line this summer. Her workout clothes are nothing short of perfectly preppy and oh so cute, and I had to share them with you! Check this sneak peek of Devon Maryn's summer line, and be sure to join her mailing list asap to get in on the action yourself!

Yes, those would be lobsters...on yoga pants...in pink & navy...drooling...oh wait, did I mention she carries the pattern in shorts, too? What's that you say? Get in my closet now? I thought so.

If lobsters aren't your cup of tea, how about nautical anchors perfect for the 4th of July? I mean, adorable!!

Are you sold yet? Be sure to follow Devon on instagram for upcoming sneak peek's, and hopefully a launch date soon! In the meantime, add these beauties to your workout wish list. 

 

Treat Yourself for Under $40!

I'm a sucker for a good deal, but I'm also a sucker for a versatile piece I can wear again and again. I stumbled upon the Sibley necklace from Swell Caroline, and I knew I had to share it with you! Double strands of big, beautiful beads? Done and done.

Sibley Necklace

The necklace comes in five fabulous colors, and falls just under $40. Sounds like a wonderful way to treat yourself (and myself) on this Wednesday. Cheers to the midweek, friends!

 

Natural Beauty Brands

This week I am bringing you a few of my most recent health kicks. While I do try to watch what I eat, workout, and generally take care of myself, I rarely chat about it on the blog, so this week, I am making an effort to tell you a bit about my recent changes. Excited?!

I am definitely not a health nut, but with my work with Julie Bee's as well as my desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle, I've recently started to get more "into" ecofriendly and organic products. There are tons of natural beauty products on the market, all of which I am eager to try. However, recently I've developed a few favorites that I want to share with you today (all thanks to my friends at Fig & Flower). 

Up first: One Love Organics

There are several things that I adore about this brand. For one, they are from right here in Georgia; St. Simons to be exact. For another, their packaging is simple & chic. And finally, I'm absolutely in love with their products. Right now I am using their Chia Whip as my face soap along with the trendy (and awesome) konjac cleansing sponge. My skin has never felt softer or cleaner!

Next: RMS Beauty Coconut Cream

Confession: I've never been one to actually remove my make up before going to bed because I am just too lazy, but this takes off my make-up in one fail swoop. This little pot of heaven smells like the beach and removes make-up like a champ. It's 100% pure coconut oil, and it's worth every affordable penny. I'm sold.

Finally: Holly Beth Organics

I had the pleasure to spend time with Holly Beth this weekend, and she walked me through each of her products. It was such a treat to spend time with her to see just how passionate she is about her work. Her excitement literally radiates from her, but that may be in part due to her glowing skin as a result of her fabulous products. I picked up her Grits & Honey scrub which even the hubby has started to love, and I have been using her Camellia Sunflower Elixir religiously as my moisturizer. Holly Beth's products are made by her hands in Atlanta, and I cannot wait to see the big big things in store for her brand.

As I delve more and more into the organic beauty product realm, I am quickly discovering just how healthy it is for your skin to make the switch. These are just a few of the products that I've tried, but I am itching to give products by Tata Harper (especially this) & others a try too. 

Tell me: Do you have any natural beauty brands that you're loving?

 

Spot On & Notable: Evelyn Henson

When you take a gander at Evelyn Henson's punchy prints and bold paintings, you can't help but smile. The 23 year-old's art is quickly making its way across the interwebs, and I am so thrilled to feature her and her youthful, colorful work here today.

Evelyn is probably best known for her map series, and was even recently featured in Jezebel magazine. She has maps for countless cities, but her imaginative art doesn't end there. In her shop you'll find sassy animals (aptly named after famous fashionstas), vibrant flowers, and gallery wall ready prints.

Want to learn more about Evelyn? Read her full interview after the jump!

Friday's Fancies: Kentucky Derby

I can say, without an ounce of doubt, that the two best sporting events I ever attended were the Masters & the Kentucky Derby. Granted, when I went to the derby, we had tickets in the infield which meant wall to wall people and lots of sweat...oh, and no fancy hats. And when I saw all of the people sitting in the shaded grandstands sipping their mint juleps and relishing in a good round of betting, I knew that I was destined for grand stand life. 

Unfortunately, I have yet to make it back to Churchill Downs, but when I do, I know I'll be donning the cutest dress with the prettiest shoes and the widest brimmed hat I can find! 

TORY BURCH kaylin dress / J.CREW havana clutch / SHINOLA birdy watch / CHANEL vintage earrings / JULIE BEE'S charleston wedge

Three cheers for the weekend, y'all! Enjoy it!

Lettermade

When it comes to cocktails and entertaining, we southern women do not mess around. In fact, we're known for our hospitality, so anything less than sweet, charming, and scrumptious is simply not acceptable. Luckily for all of us, there are places like Lettermade that help make our cocktail parties and afternoon teas that much more special. 

Lettermade is an online retail shop specializing in embroidered linen cocktail napkins, and when I stumbled upon Malia's unique designs, I knew immediately that I wanted to share them with you. Malia is one of those girls who I just know I would be friends with if state lines didn't separate us. Her gumption and kindess is exactly the kind of thing that southern women stand for, and her shop is no different. 

Today, I have a couple of treats for you! First, a delicious cocktail fit for a fantastic set of monogrammed linens, and then a full interview with the cocktail napkin queen herself! 

Berry Fizz: 

1 cup of frozen or fresh berries

squeeze of lemon juice

2 oz gin

top with club soda 

Blend or muddle berries. Add lemon juice to help add a bit of liquid to the mixture. Fill cocktail shaker with ice & add blended berries and gin. Shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass & top it off with club soda & a lemon garnish. Serve with your favorite Lettermade napkins & a few other sweet treats!

Want to hear more about Malia's Lettermade venture? Read the full interview after the jump!

Lauren James T-Shirts & Shorties

Sometimes, a girl just needs a few good t-shirts in her drawers, but unfortunately as you get older, the tried and true sorority & college tees tend to get a little faded, a little pilly, and let's face it, a little snug. Luckily, there are ladies like Lauren Stokes designing comfy clothes for those of us a bit past the college years who still like to look cute while comfy. Lauren's company, Lauren James, provides adorable tee-shirts fit for any southern peach. 

southern charm / girl's best friend / the south

I'm especially smitten by The South tee (bottom), but I totally agree that puppies really are a girl's best friend. Lauren James also sells sweet seersucker running shorts (called shorties) in a variety of colors.  Which of these tees or shorts might find their way into your closet?

P.S. A very happy birthday to my friend, Erin! A St. Patrick's baby through and through!

 

Spot-On & Notable Kluster Happy Jewelry

Last week, I gave you a quick peek into the wonderful world of brilliant baubles by Kluster Happy Jewelry. After a few tweets gushing over polka dot flats, I just knew that Laura and I were destined to chat a bit more about her adorable shop and talented eye for jewelry design. Plus, Kluster Happy Jewelry just launched a ton of great new products for your viewing (and wearing!) pleasure. 

Enjoy learning more about her shop, what it's like to be an entrepreneur, and the one thing she believes every stylish woman should have below!

Why did you decide to start Kluster Happy Jewelry?   
Surprisingly, I didn't quite "decide" to start Kluster Happy Jewelry. I had been designing and creating jewelry with stones & silver since I was a teenager. It was purely a hobby, making jewelry for myself and, occasionally, for friends and family as gifts. I had sold my jewelry at a few events, but nothing major. In the fall of 2011, my mom asked me to participate in a craft show with her (she makes adorable cosmetic bags) and I agreed. The show didn't go well (I barely sold anything), so I was left with a lot beautiful jewelry that I didn't know what to do with. Friends had always suggested that I sell online, so I casually opened my first Etsy shop in October 2011. To my surprise (and glee!), the orders started coming in, and it's been a crazy journey ever since!

Tell me what a day in the life on an entrepreneur looks like.  
Well, as an entrepreneur, every day really is its own adventure. Here's my best stab at a "typical" day. First of all, let me just tell you that I do love my sleep. I make a lot of sacrifices for the biz, but sleep isn't one of them! I wake up around 7:30am and start the day with a couple cups of coffee. I dive into emails and checking social media, blog posts, etc pretty much immediately (I'm still in pajamas!). 

Katie, my awesome office assistant, arrives at the house around 9am, so I throw on "real clothes" and make a to-do list for our day. Once Katie arrives, we make the trek upstairs to my dedicated office and studio and get to work. We start the day fulfilling orders that came in the night before so we can get them in our customers' hands as quickly as possible. Our goal is to ship every order within 24-48 hours. 

Some days we're focused on PR and marketing, which means calling/emailing bloggers, magazine editors, local tv personalities, etc. I'm usually editing photos and creating images for the website and social media - this part takes WAY longer than you'd think! Other days, we're in full design mode. Since every piece of jewelry we sell is designed and made by hand right here in the studio, we spend a lot of time coming up with new stones, ordering new stones, and handcrafting all the jewels! Those days are the most fun. =) 

Katie and I usually break for a home-cooked lunch and read a bunch of magazines at the kitchen table. We've been friends for years, so we get in some good laughs about what's going on in our lives - you know, kiddos, husbands, shopping addictions, etc. Then it's back to the grind! We mail out any orders that have come in since the morning, and finish up our to-do list for the day. Katie leave around 5pm, and that's about the same time my husband gets home from work. So, I take a break to have a chat with him and make dinner at home. 

By about 7pm, I'm back on the laptop or my phone responding to more emails, checking social media, writing an e-blast or blog post, setting up an online sale, checking order statuses, etc. I usually have my best ideas in the evening, so I'm constantly putting reminders and notes in my phone so I'll actually remember to add those things to my never-ending to-do list. Then it's time to recharge my brain with some good sleep!

What's your next big thing that shoppers can expect?  
We just launched a new collection full of bright new colors and fresh designs. Our clients love seeing new, unexpected colors and collecting their new favorites from the collection. We're already working on some really pretty designs for autumn...you're going to be surprised!!

What is your favorite product that you sell?  
I swear, I have a new favorite almost every day. The jewels are like children to me...how can you truly pick a favorite? Right now, I'm obsessing over the Rockstar Necklace.

Who/what would be your ultimate collaboration?  
Kluster x J.Crew would be THE DREAM collaboration. Personally, I've been obsessed with J.Crew for many years. I think we're targeting the same shoppers, with the same tastes: women who love classic, yet colorful fashion. 

Fill in the blank: one thing every stylish woman should have is...  
A sense of who she is and what she wants. I'm fortunate to have some very stylish girlfriends, and they each have their own very distinctive sense of style and sense of self. They know what they like, and they stick to it. We're always saying to each other, "This is so Carrie. This is so Amy. This is so Leslie," because each of us have a very personal style. It's so much easier to dress yourself confidently when you fill your closet with pieces that are "so you".  

What is your favorite southern dish?  
Hands down, fried okra. I usually roast my okra when I'm cooking, but it's definitely tastier fried (of course!).

Tell me your definition of "southern hospitality."  
Here in Kentucky, nothing says southern hospitality like food. If you want to be the hostess with the mostest, you'd better make sure there's food out. In our circle of family and friends, nothing says "I'm happy you're here!" like having thoughtful snacks and drinks ready for every get together.  

Favorite cocktail? 
Red wine!

Friday's Fancies: Shop Small

Blogger fail: I avoid Black Friday like the plague; it's just not my thing at all. BUT! I do fully support the concept behind Small Business Saturday - which just so happens to be tomorrow! Below I have a few steals and deals you can find around cyberspace. Get some holiday shopping done a little early, and be sure to treat yourself a little too. 

 Design Darling / 20% off of everything with the code "THANKS"

Waiting on Martha / free shipping & a free gift with purchase with code "MERRYMERRY" 

Belle & Union / 20% off with code "GOODTIDINGS"

Amanda Catherine Designs / free shipping & a free gift with $45 purchase with code "ACDHOLIDAY"

Judith March / 20% off with code "PINDEJAVU"