Merry Eve Traditions

Merry Christmas Eve loves!  This is the day when individuals around the globe purchase last minute presents, prepare family recipes, and travel on busy highways to visit family.  For Americans, this day can be stressful.  We have limited time to make adjustments or finish To-Lists.  Do not forget the real reason we all celebrate Christmas.  Each other.  I personally believe that this day symbolizes the earthly birth of Jesus Christ, the son of God who came from heaven for us and died a torturous death only 33 years later.  He came not for the piles of presents or perfectly cooked ham, Jesus came for us.  For you, for me, for the millions of people who came before us, and for the billions who will come after.  So this Christmas Eve I challenge you to take a step back from all the planning, shopping, and preparing to realize what you do have.  Give thanks for the individuals in your life who have helped you become who you are.  To the mail-carrier that delivered your Christmas cards, the neighbor that smiles at you every morning, and the police officer that keeps your street safe.  We are surrounded by so many wonderful things, please do not let the stress of Christmas Eve keep you from appreciating the season.

To help you, here are a few of my favorite Christmas Eve traditions:

1. Driving around town to look at Christmas Lights.

This photo was taken in my hometown by Pepline Reality and showcases one of my favorite Christmas Eve tradition.  So many families spend large amounts of time, energy, and money to decorate their houses each December.  This year, go to a neighborhood you have never been in and see what decorations you can spot!

2. Sipping hot chocolate by the fire. 

Tonight, share some of your favorite holiday memories with your loved ones while sipping hot chocolate (or other warm beverage).  Need a new mug?  This cutie is on sale at the Kate Spade New York's website!

3. Laughing at a Christmas movie with your loved ones. 

Ever since I was a child, on the night of December 24th my family and I gather around our living room television and watch Christmas comedies.
A few of my favorites include:

4. Baking cookies for your neighbors. 

Even if you are not a baker, it is still nice to give little presents to the families and individuals who live next to you.  If you chose to bake cookies, here is a recipe you might enjoy.

Christmas Cookie Pops
from Betty Crocker

Merry Christmas!

Last Day of the Giveaway

Today is your last chance to enter The Monogrammed Marie's first Holiday Giveaway.  One lucky winner will receive one monogrammed bow from Devon Alana Design that will be customized just for them!  Contest will end at 12:00 AM December 24.  

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Southern Bride Blogger

I am THRILLED to announce that I have just become an official Southern Bride Blogger!  I love Southern Wedding Magazines and will be enjoying my own Southern wedding in just 70 more days!  Stay tuned for wedding related posts to appearing the next few weeks.  

Christmas Eve Relaxation

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. A sweet southern belle was resting alone, sipping hot chocolate and full of Christmas cheer. "Santa baby," she said, "I really do believe in you, let's see if you believe in me." And then she closed her eyes the fire crackled on.
The Belle dreamed on of carols and presents and cheer. Because there's no place like home for the holidays.

Lounging in Style:

Vera Bradley pajamas / Vera Bradley pj pants / Patricia green shoes
 / Anorak ceramic tea cup

A Pampered Holiday:

Layering t shirt / Hollister Co flannel pajamas / Juicy Couture robe /
prAna Peony Slippers (Women's) / OPI nail polish

Classy Christmas Morning:

Olivia von Halle lingerie sleepwear / Victoria s Secret satin sleepwear
 / Mary Green Sleeping Eye Mask

 

Do not forget to register to win a FREE monogrammed hair bow here!

My Post to Santa

Dear Santa,

If you were real, I would send you a letter.  Telling you how good I have been and how much I deserve special presents.  I wouldn't ask for much.  Just a few items that would set my new year off on the right foot. 

 

 

So instead of letter, will a blog post do?

1. Tiffany & Co. Ziegfeld Collection Pearl Necklace
2. Tiffany & Co. Silver Key Pendent
3. Tiffany & Co. Heart Tag Toggle Bracelet
4. Kate Spade Skinny Mini Bow Bangle
5. J. Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt (Size 2)
6. Lilly Pulitzer Key Chain with USB Flash Drive
7. Lilly Pulitzer Kate Puffer Vest (Size Small)
8. M.A.C. Cosmetics Lipstick
9. TOMS Chestnut Suede Women's Desert Wedges (Size 6, Thank You!)

Santa, if you do not exist I will be sad, but thank you anyways for reading my list.  I hope you have a Merry Christmas and say hi to the Mrs. for me.

 

Inside the Backpack

Only a small amount of people actually enjoy school.  I am not one of those people.  In order to make the most out of my school experience, I would invest in supplies I enjoyed using.  Even though I am no longer in school, here are a few of my favorite school supplies.

1. Vera Bradley Campus Backpack
2. Vera Bradley Pencil Pouch
3. Lilly Pulitzer Large Agenda
4. Lilly Pulitzer Tumbler with Straw
5. Lilly Pulitzer Calculator
6. Mini Package of Tissues
7. Erasable Rollerball Pen Set
8. Kate Spade Notebook Set
9. Kate Spade Eraser Set
10. Chevron Pattern 3-Ring Binder

What's in your Backpack?

Winter Exam Wear

Exams.  We all hate them.  Nonetheless, we all have to take them at some point in our lives.  You can find out a lot about a person during this time.  For example, some individuals are completely prepared, show up early, and receive the highest grade.  Others are planners.  These students are honest with themselves and know what to expect from themselves.  Lastly are the minimalists, the people who cram all night, roll out of bed minutes before the exam, and bring only what they need.  No matter what type of test taker you are, the best way to rock your finals or midterms is to do what works best for you.  Here are a few attire examples to help you through this crazy time of year.

The Prepared Star-Student:

If you fit into this category, I bet you already have each of your outfits selected.  There is nothing wrong with that!  If you are still in need of inspiration, think about pairing colorful skinny jeans with a patterned sweater.  Wedged TOMS make the perfect addition to this outfit because they are stylish, warm, and comfortable enough for long walks across campus.  A large tote, like the Kate Spade Elissa, is perfect for holding all of your essentials including motivational pencils and your adorable planner.



Armor Lux long sleeve shirt / Skinny jeans / TOMS wedge ankle boots / Kate spade purse / Gentle Reminders Pencils- Mint and Gold, Set of 6 / Kate Spade 17 Month Agenda

The Planned-Out Student:

You might not be as prepared as the Star-Student, however you know what you need.  This Victoria's Secret PINK pullover and H&M jeggings make a perfect combination for long study sessions in the library.  Do not forget to pack all of your essentials in your easy to use backpack and a comfortable pair of boots to finish the look.

Victoria s Secret pink / H&M 5 pocket pants / Longchamp bag / Beauty product / UGG Australia UGG Australia Classic Short Chestnut / Lilly Pulitzer 2014 Jumbo Agenda

 

The Last-Minute Student:

We all know these students.  They sit in the back of class, arrive just on time, and never pack anything more than they know they will need.  If this is you, pair an oversized sweater with comfortable pants and light shoes.  Small clutches or cross-body bags are the perfect size for your exam accessories, such as a Lilly Pulitzer pocket calculator and mini notebook from Vera Bradley.

Rag Bone pink shirt / Lilly Pulitzer blue wide leg pants / Converse shoes / Tory Burch handbag / Vera Bradley Mini Notebook with Pocket / Lilly Pulitzer home décor

Happy exams and may the odds be ever in your favor.

Put a Bow on it

Southern girls love their tea sweet, their nights long, and their bows big.  Even if you live up north or out west, nearly every girl can appreciate the way a hair bow makes them feel.  Bows can be appropriate for almost every occasion including lazy Saturdays, dates with your man, and holiday parties.  Is your wardrobe in need of a new bow?  Enter to win a FREE monogrammed hair bow from Devon Alana Design through The Monogrammed Marie's First Holiday Giveaway!  After you enter, I would love for to share the giveaway with your friends and family. While you wait for the results to be released, take a look at these bow-related outfit ideas I have put together to give you ideas on how to wear a hair bow.  Photo from Devon Alana Design's Facebook page.

1. Relaxed Saturday

Madewell aran sweater / J.Crew jeans / Tory burch shoes / Kate spade jewelry / Hair bow

2. Dinner Date

Lilly Pulitzer pink dress / Kate Spade ballet flat shoes / Melinda Maria bohemian jewelry / Emerald Green Hair Bow

3. Holiday Party

Dorothy Perkins boat neckline dress / Manolo blahnik pump / Brooks Brothers drop earrings / Kate spade bangle / Honey Gold Hair Bow

 

Don't forget to enter the giveaway!

Sorority Paddle Tips and Tricks

One of my favorite parts about being in a sorority was making a receiving paddles.  For new
members, these small pieces of decorated wood can seem like daunting tasks.  When I first rushed, I even believed that little sisters were expected to cut and shape the paddle out of wood!  You can imagine how happy I was to find that they come pre-shaped. There are several options you can chose when decorating your paddle.  Some are colorful and sparkly, others are monochrome and chic.  No matter what you are planning to surprise your big sister with, I would like to share with you a few tips and tricks that I picked up on during my sorority days.



First, find out what your big wants.  This paddle will most likely hang on her wall for the next few years so make sure she likes it.  Be sure to find out her favorite colors, patterns, and interests.  If she loves running, think about including a photo of the two of you participating in a 5K or hitting the gym.  If you love watching Glee together, thing about including song lyrics or a quote from your favorite character.  The best thing about paddles is the ability to make them as unique as your big.  This paddle can be purchased from KraftsbyKristie on Etsy.




Second, use materials that will last.  For instance, Elmer's Glue will not hold as long as hot glue. Acrylic paint is my recommendation for both unfinished and finished wood.  The higher the quality of paint, the less coats you will need to apply.  Be sure to take your time when creating your paddle.  Start early and do not be afraid to try new things.  If you do not know how to apply glitter, throw a Paddle Making Party and invite your sisters.  Not only can you ask for their advice while you work, it is a great bonding experience.



Finally, do not forget about other important members of your family including
your grand-big, twin, or pledge mom.  Smaller paddles or plaques can be decorated to match your big's paddle or the recipient's personality, like this one found at TSM.  If your big is the only one who receives paddles at your chapter, think about starting a new tradition.  Running out of time or resources?  Picture frames, handmade gifts, or chocolates can be used to show your appreciation.

Do you have any pictures of paddles you have made?  Share them below!

Matching Outfits

Are you planning to have a photoshoot this holiday with your siblings or best friends?  Coordinating your outfits for pictures can be tricky.  So ideas that I have found to work include chosing two or three colors as the base for your attire.  Use accessories such as jewelry or shoes to show each individual's personality.  For inspiration, I have complied a set for you using a few of my favorite items.

Jaeger linen shirt, $125 / American Eagle Outfitters sweater / J Brand jeans / Seven jeans / Tory Burch flat shoes / Splendid flat shoes / J Crew j crew jewelry / Lilly Pulitzer scarf

Are you planning to do something fun this holiday with your sister or BFF?

Gifts for Little Sisters

This post is inspired by a lovey 8th grader who has made a permanent place for herself in my heart.  She loves color, flowers, and everything girly.  Some times it can be difficult to buy things for younger siblings, especially if you no longer live with them.  However, working along side middle school students every day has given me an insiders advantage that I would love to share with you.  So this Christmas, give your younger sister a gift she can enjoy all year long and let her know that you have no forgotten about her.  In addition to buying her presents, think about taking her to the movies or shopping at the mall.  This will give you an opportunity to reconnect and learn more about each other.

1.  Juicy Couture Perfume Set
2. Marc Jacobs Daisy Stud Earrings
3. Tyler Ramsey Classic TOMS
4. Victoria's Secret PINK Backpack

What is on your little sister's Christmas list?

Holiday Giveaway with Devon Alana Design

Enter below to win a free monogrammed bow from

Devon Alana Design!

Contest begins December 7th and ends December 21st!

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Gifts for Girlfriends

Girls are like magnets, we always find each other and we always stick together. This Christmas, thank your best friend by giving her what really matters, your gratitude.  I don't know what I would do without my best friend.  She held my hand during my darkest moments and celebrated with me on my best days.  She has always been there for me and I will always be there for her.  Gratitude can be expressed in a number of ways so be sure to carefully listen to your bestie's requests.  Here are a few preppy present ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

1. Vineyard Vines Flip Flops
2. Lilly Pulitzer Drink Coozie 
3. Kate Spade iPhone Case
4. Vineyard Vines Wallet
5. Lilly Pulitzer Bow Earrings
6. Kate Spade Rope Bracelet

What are you planning to get your BFFs?

Winter Trend: Colored Tights

Spice up your wardrobe this holiday season with one of my new favorite trends, colored tights!  Maybe it is because I was a ballerina.  Whatever the reason, colored tights are the perfect addition to your closet this summer, especially if you live in the north.



Jane Norman party dress / Opaque tight / Christian Louboutin black pumps / Charlotte Russe woven headband / MAC Cosmetics lips makeup

Dkny shirt / Hue blue opaque tight / River Island silver waist belt / Zip boots / Chan luu bracelet

Blue tunic / Merona sheer stocking / Witchery summer shorts / Cole Haan low-heel boots / ERICKSON BEAMON multi colored crystal necklace


Have any holiday plans this December?