Spring Fashion Trend Inspiration

I have put together my list of Spring Fashion must haves. As I curate my Spring wardrobe with some fresh new pieces, I have also been scrolling Pinterest  and saving some looks that inspire me. Here is the list of items and looks I am excited to create this Spring. My recreations of these looks will be coming in about two weeks, I am super excited to share this post with you!

Rompers & Cowboy Boots

I have been dreaming of this pairing for a long time and love how keyscountry put it together. I am so excited to pair my cowboy boots with a new spring romper.

Floral Dresses

I am sad to say I do not have any florals in my wardrobe but florals are the thing right now. And nothing beats a wrap dress because it is the most flattering dress style. These are the reasons I have been swooning over the Lace and Charm Bella Notte Wrap Dress. I think it would be perfect for a date night or just a day when I want to be a little fancy.

Demin Overalls

I have a feeling a pair of denim overalls will become a staple in my wardrobe. I see myself wearing them with graphic teas and chucks to the park with the kids but I love how HelloFashionBlog styled them in the picture above, with some beautiful summer heals, I'm inspired!

Graphic T's

I love t-shirts and I love God so I was so excited when I discovered The Light Blonde. These fashions share such an amazing message with rad style.

Spring Shoes

I am on the hunt for an ankle boot with a fabulous detail. It needs to be a flat because comfort and movement is important for my lifestyle. If the booty is a special colour, or has a print or cut out, it will give me that fancy feeling I am going for.

Tote Bag

I always switch my bag each season, and this season I would love a big tote! I no longer carry a diaper bag but I do have extra items with me for the kids, and a billion lipsticks, so a big tote is necessary.

Workout Gear

I am in need of a new pair of high quality leggings and I think I want them in the colour army green. Every few years I invest in a few good pairs of leggings and they stand the test of time. My body is not the same shape it was a few years ago though and my current leggings are uncomfortable so its time to get a pair in the right size and maybe a neat colour.

There are many trends I would love to wear but I like to choose clothes I can wear often so I always consider what is realistic for my lifestyle. I am often on the floor and playing outside. Looking good is important to me so I try to be thoughtful in how I can put stylish outfits together that will equip me in my daily work. Its definitely been a transition over the last 4 years but I am learning that creating lists like this, help me to create a wardrobe that really reflects my personality in so many situations.

If you liked this post you may also like The Most Fun Shopping Trip where I share my top tips for a successful day of shopping.

What spring fashion trends are on your wish list this season?

xoxo
Audrey

OOTD | You Are My Sunshine | Bluenotes

This outfit is pretty simple, something nice to wear on a regular day running errands with the kids. The colour of the sweater is what I think makes it special. This duster style of cardigan is everywhere this season and when I saw them in the store I was drawn to the grey one but I made myself try on the yellow. I am so glad I did because this sunny colour brightens my day and during my grey Canadian winter, I often need an extra dash of sunshine. The top is simple too but the polka dots are fun and the jeans pretty much feel like leggings, winning! (If you hang out here often you know how I feel about leggings). The whole outfit is from Bluenotes in the Lambton Mall. When I shopped this outfit a few weeks ago Bluenotes had a great BOGO sale on, right now they are offering 30% off all new arrivals. This post is not sponsored, I just got the text today with the discount details though, so I thought I would share that. Photos by Cass Crowe Photography 

Easy Like Sunday Morning | OOTD

This is what I wore to church last Sunday. I totally dress based on my mood and of course where I am going. For church, I sometimes love to get super dressed up and other days, I just like to be casual but nicely pulled together. I was in the mood for comfort which is how this outfit was created. Here are the outfit details:

Piper Jeggings - comfy and funky because of the stretchy waist band and motto details.

Jesus Coffee Makeup t-shirt - comfy and fun because of its graphics.

Loose Knit Sweater - its a comfy layering piece and perfect item for this time of year when the mornings are cool and afternoons are warm.

After naps, the sweater came off and the kids and I went for a walk to the park for a play. I am LOVING this beautiful autumn weather we have been having here in Southwestern Ontario. I would love to know what some of your favourite layering pieces are for the fall, please comment below and or share a picture in the comments on social media.

Thank you for checking out this post and spending time with me here.
xoxo
Audrey

Shop With Me At Lace and Charm

Last weekend I had the pleasure of enjoying a private shopping experience at Lace and Charm in Sarnia with one of the co-owners Christina. I was looking to update my spring, summer wardrobe and find something to wear to Sarnia Fashion Week. Not only did I find a dress I love for my special event, I fell in love with the whole line. I felt like I was playing dress up as I tried on piece after piece that made me feel awesome. You guys know I always say "look good, feel good", this collection definitely did that for me. Every item of this new fashion brand has details that make it special and most pieces are very wearable, something that is important to me as a mom of two little ones.

I am so excited to share my shopping experience with you in the video and images below, I hope you will check them all out. From now until June 30th, you can shop Lace and Charm for 20% off with the promo code HAL20. You can shop Lace and Charm from their website or get in touch with them directly through their socials (linked below) to schedule your shopping appointment, either on your own or with a few friends. Their summer collection will be launching soon so be sure to follow them on their socials so you don't miss a thing.

Please comment below and let me know which Lace and Charm pieces you love most!

Promo Code HAL20
Sale Valid Until June 30, 2017

Lace and Charm website
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
Pinterest

Check out the full shopping video here.

We Are Renovating | Life Episode Video

We are feeling excited and blessed to be doing some home renovations! Check out the first weekend of work in the video below. I would love to hear about your home renovation projects and experiences, please share them in the comment section. The more work we put into our house, the more it feels like a home and while the previous space was very out of date, I was a little sentimental when everything got ripped out as it was still filled with memories (yes I am an extreme sap). Thanks for hanging out and watching this video. 

Petrolia Adventure Day

Spring Temps & Spray Tans

I am excited to be collaborating with Bronze Bodies Sarnia on todays post to offer you some tips for prepping your skin for a spray tan.

1. Moisturize your entire body regularly after washing to increase the moisture levels of your skin.

2. Exfoliate your body with a loofa regularly in the shower to remove dry patchy skin.

3. Exfoliate your face twice in the week leading up to your spray tan to ensure your surface skin cells are even.

4. Shave 24 to 48 hours before your spray tan.

5. Shower 24 to 12 hours before your spray tan but not the day of to ensure your body is fully and evenly dry.

6. The morning of your spray tan do not shower, moisturize or apply deodorant to assist in getting the most even tan application.

Come along with me on my Saturday as I get my spray tan and enjoy the awesome warm weather with my family.

Happy Bronzing!

Shop Local Sarnia

Photo by Shannon Turner
T-shirts by Sweet Tea Apparel

We are about a month from Christmas and gift giving is definitely on my mind. I don't have a ton of gifts that I need to buy as my family has started to draw names and as we add more littles to the picture, holidays become more about them. This all being said I love the process of brainstorming the perfect gift for a loved one, something that is a perfect surprise and treat that they may not purchase for themselves.

As you brainstorm your gifts this year please think carefully about the unique local vendors that surround you. Our local shops in Sarnia work very hard to bring us unique items to make gift giving easy. The owners and employees of these businesses are also excited to help you shop and choose the perfect gift for the special person on your list.

Ever since I started to work for myself I began to become more aware of the amazing variety of home based businesses we have in Lambton County, either people who make unique items in their home or are representatives for Network Marketing companies, the ways you can support local business owners with your holiday shopping dollars are endless.

When you head out on your Christmas shopping adventures this year, take the time to consider who you could shop from and support as you plan your gift giving. I promise you, the local businesses and your family and friends will thank you.

Here are some of my favourite vendors:

These t shirts for the whole family are rad - Sweet Tea Apparel

A gift card for a family photo shoot or the photos themselves are great gifts - Shannon Turner Photography

Lenox has some really fresh styles for guys, I always find it challenging to find very on trend clothes for Ty but they currently have it going on - Lenox Athletix

I love shopping One Tooth for quality and stylish fitness apparel - One Tooth

You guys know my favourite skincare and makeup is Arbonne, there are so many gift options for the  beauty lover on your list - my Arbonne store

Another hot beauty item this season are nail wraps, these are awesome for a quick fashionable manicure from home, perfect for a busy mom - Jamberry

For the kids on my list, I love to shop for books and special toys from Sarnia Bookkeeper

I hope this list of awesome local businesses helps you with your Christmas shopping this year. Please comment below with your favourite Lambton County businesses and the links to their websites so we can all learn more about our local vendors.

Merry Christmas
Audrey

2016 Arbonne Holiday Unboxing

I am sharing everything in the 2016 Arbonne Holiday Collection, you do not want to miss this. 

Learn more about my Arbonne business and start your Christmas shopping from the comfort of your home - http://HeatherLapier.arbonne.com 

Shop Local Sarnia - Gift Guide

A few weeks ago I shared some ideas to help you shop local in my Think Before You Shop post and now I want to offer you some specific gift giving ideas from some of my favourite Sarnia businesses.

Silpada - Joan Armstrong

Shopping from Silpada for any lady on your Christmas list is a no brainer for me for 2 reasons. 1. This line has a huge selection of jewellery offering styles for anyones taste and 2. I can shop when it is convenient for me online and have the items delivered to my door. If you like shopping online, consider the variety of direct sales companies that offer their consultants websites. Silpada  has been offering some great sales, you can sign up for their newsletter so you can take advantage of some great deals.

I have been wearing the two Silpada jewellery pieces featured in the images below a lot, dressing them up and down. I know these earrings and necklace will be at the centre of many looks I create this season. If you have any questions about Silpada, Joan would be happy to assist you with your shopping. You can send her an email from her website or get in touch with her through her Facebook page. 

The Book Keeper

Childrens books are an amazing gift for young families because they provide an opportunity to spend time together. I love the children's corner at The Book Keeper, you can pull up a little stool and let your inner child take over as you browse the wide selection of books they have available. They have books for anyone on your list from young to old and they even carry some books written by people from Sarnia Lambton and books about our community!

If there is a specific book that you are in search of, they can help you find it in store or order it in for you. If you would prefer to shop online, you can do that as well from their website. This store is cozy, the staff are welcoming and shopping at The Book Keeper for gifts is always an enjoyable experience.

Shoes @ 144 Front

This is one of my favourite stores in Sarnia and they don't just sell shoes. In addition to an amazing variety of footwear, they also carry funky socks, purses, bags, wallets and super stylish hats, all great gift ideas for a girlfriend, sister or mom. For all the males out there who don't know what to get their lady, a gift card to this store would be an excellent present for Christmas morning. Your lady will love the selection of beautiful items to choose from and I guarantee she will have the most pleasant shopping experience while she is there.

Specifically, I love the line of Co-Lab bags that Shoes @ 144 Front carries. This line designs everything from wallets to large totes. I have a few of their faux leather items, they are functional, quality bags that make it easy to be a stylish mom. A few months ago I shared why I loved the Co-Lab back pack in the My Diaper Bag story but most recently I have been loving this magenta over the shoulder bag (pictured below). This purse easily transforms into a clutch that I can throw into Luke's diaper bag by clipping off the shoulder strap. If you have a mom on your Christmas list that loves stylish bags, a purse that allows her to keep her fashionista identity and be prepared for everything her child may need during an outing, is a very thoughtful gift!

Greg's Auto Detailing

Tyler gave me the idea of a truck detail this year as I was having trouble thinking of something unique for him. I loved the idea of a vehicle detail for anyone who loves their ride. As you can see from the images below, this gift is not your average car clean, this is a vehicle transformation. After reviewing all the images on the Greg's Auto Detailing Facebook page I could see why Tyler would want his services as a gift. Greg's Auto Detailing doesn't just clean your vehicle, he makes it look like new. It is amazing how having my car cleaned to perfection makes me love it like a brand new vehicle all over again.

Greg's Auto Detailing has been in business for over 15 years. His work is proof that he takes pride in his business and appreciates his clientele.

Sticks and Strings

I think warm and stylish winter gear is always a great gift for us up here in the true north. I want to be able to enjoy my time outside during the winter but I want to look cute too. Within the Sticks & String line, there are many pieces that come in child and adult sizes which means Luke, Tyler and I can all match, wouldn't matching knits be a great gift for a little family! These handmade knit items will keep your loved ones warm and on trend all winter long. You can browse the variety of items from their Facebook page and if you see something you like, just send a friendly message.

The woman behind Sticks And Strings is a friend of mine whom I have known for many years. Her creativity easily flows into all of her handiwork. She also creates custom Nuns and other cool items, if you are looking for a very personal and unique gift idea.

As I learn more about my favourite local businesses there is one common thread, they are all prideful and appreciative of the community they live and raise their businesses in. For this reason they give back to our communities joyfully at Christmas and all year round. Shopping local doesn't just support the business owners and their employees, it supports our community and makes it stronger by allowing businesses to continually support the charities in Sarnia Lambton. The positive ripple that will take place when you begin to change your mindset and thoughtfully shop in our community, will reach so many of our neighbours. Have fun shopping local this Christmas Sarnia and all year long.

Merry Christmas!

P.S. Connect with these businesses on their Facebook pages to keep up with all the fun stuff they have going on all year long.

Silpada - Joan-Armstrong

The Book Keeper

Shoes @ 144 Front

Greg's Auto Detailing

Sticks and Strings

Think Before You Shop

Christmas is right around the corner and I have started to make my gift giving shopping list. I try not to put all the focus of Christmas on gifts as I believe it is about so much more but I love brainstorming the perfect gifts for my loved ones. You know that feeling when you know you got the perfect gift and it is so hard to wait until Christmas morning for the recipient to open it because you are so excited to see their reaction, I strive for that with the purchase of every gift!

In my shopping and gift giving experience (which I think is pretty extensive), I have found that many of the best gifts can be purchased from a local business here in Lambton County. The local vendors I shop from tend to have unique items that can't be found in big box stores and very often if they don’t have something in stock, they are happy to order it in for you. I also much prefer the shopping experience in a local store because I am often dealing with a passionate business owner who is just as excited as I am, to help me find the perfect gift!

I think shopping local is an amazing way to make your holiday details so much more special. By purchasing my Christmas turkey from a local farmer I am starting my own family tradition that is now part of a family tradition that has been bringing Christmas joy to the dinner table for probably many generations, how cool is that!

It’s not about how much I have but how what I do have, is special. I would rather spend a little more on a few special items than have many not so special items. It’s not about how many presents are under the tree but the uniqueness and thought of those gifts. 

Not only do I encourage you to consider local stores and farmers when doing your Christmas shopping but also the people in your life who run direct sales companies and offer really cool products that can only be purchased through them. If you like to shop online this can be a great way to shop locally without leaving your home. Many direct sales companies provide their Consultants with personalized websites so their clients can shop directly from them online.

The ways to support our local economy with your Christmas dollars are endless and I assure you that shopping locally will fill you and the recipients of your gifts with so much joy.

Here are some of my favourite local stores and vendors to shop from to get you thinking about your gift giving list. Put a little extra thought into your Christmas gift, grab a coffee from your fav local coffee shop and enjoy the Christmas shopping experience that is available to us right here in Sarnia Lambton!

Turkey - Jeffrey Farms

Gifts For Her - Joan Armstrong Silpada

Gifts for Him - Gregs Auto Detailing

Cozy Gifts For The Family - Sticks And Strings

Gifts For The Girls - Shoes @ 144 Front

Gifts For The Whole Family - The Book Keeper

This is just the beginning of some exciting posts and content that I will be sharing here throughout the Christmas season. I love Christmas and I want to share in the awesomeness of this season with you. Check me out on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook so you don't miss any updates or giveaways.