Personalized Longchamp

Y'all, I practically screamed today when I discovered the "Create Your Own Longchamp" feature on the Longchamp website. I've seen quite a few girls with monogramed versions of the Le Pliage (their most popular bag) and I'm always super jealous - until now, that is! 

Here's the bag I created. Too cute, right? I'm a huge fan of neutral handbags because I really can't stand not matching, but I love the pop of pink. The little line of text on the pink stripe says "Amanda" in cursive; you know I had to monogram it! 

The customization process let's you choose literally everything that goes into a bag: the design, size, color, handle length, metal, and even your name or initials. Go check it out - even if you're not in the market for a new purse, it's always fun to play!

Unique Wedding Photos

Working at Southern Bride has already been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. One of the best parts, you ask? Learning so much about the ins and outs of publishing is a blast, but it's such a nice little bonus that I get to learn about weddings, too! If there's anything that brides have stressed the most, it's the importance of getting the best photos possible on their big day. After scouring gobs of pictures, I've put together my favorite unique shots to spruce up your wedding album and bring a smile to your face for years to come.

This is such a cute way to feature your wedding party! Think of them as the "glue that holds you two together." That was incredibly corny..

Oh man, I love this. The Superman tee will probably make an appearance on my wedding day.

This is such fun picture, plus I love the suspenders on the groomsmen. 

Alright, so this photo might not be "different" per say, but it sure is gorgeous. The lighting, her gosh, their loving gaze, everything is just spot on.

If anyone out there thinks Sophie isn't going to be ALL OVER my wedding day, they have another thing coming. I love when people incorporate their furry friends into their wedding day. Just make sure they're well behaved!

This is such a sweet way to have pictures together before the ceremony without spoiling the surprise!

Folks, you're looking at a contender for Amanda's Favorite Photo of All Time right now. The wedding party got together the morning after the wedding to take some quick snapshots and I think it turned out awesome! Plus, I'm still giggling at the "Maid of Dishonor."

Awwww! What a cute way to keep it cute on a rainy wedding day.

And here we have another super awesome bridal party. I love this shot - too fun!

Hey, it's supposed to be the happiest day of your life, right? This photo is the definition of happy!

Oh boy, I love a funny group of boys. 

Which photo was your favorite? Will you be incorporating any of these in your special day?

Until next time,

AJ

Preppy Stripes

The stripe trend is probably my favorite one of the season for one very simple (very lazy!) reason - I already wear them regularly. I found this adorable lil' outfit on one of my most favorite fashion resources, Polyvore. 

If you haven't heard of Polyvore yet, fear not, it's super simple to explain/understand. Basically, you log on and see outfits that people have put together. The added bonus is that if you hover over each individual item, Polyvore tells you the designer name, price, and even a link to purchase it! I've never gotten around to making my own sets yet, which I'll chalk up to my busy schedule (sike!), but I could browse the site for days.

What's not to love about this? Everything is so adorable, and it actually looks super comfy to boot! Those heels, that necklace, sighhh.

Ray-Ban Aviators ($150), Regatta Stripe Top ($70), Swarovski Necklace, Kurt Geiger Humbug Clutch ($280), Therapy Anlke Grazer Jean ($31), Malene Birger Sinousa Suede Pump ($449)

She is Clothed in Strength and Dignity..

Now that I'm a workin' woman, I am starting to fully appreciate the beauty that is Saturday. Waking up late (we're talking 9:00am) is now a luxury. I never thought I'd say that! Here is one of my favorite verses, and something I will try to focus on for a while. Can you imagine "laughing without fear of the future?" I am a planner extraordinaire, so it's really difficult for me to imagine what it's like to not fear what the future holds. But then again, who cares? It's going to happen anyways, right? Right. 

I found this particular photo here.

Have a great Saturday everyone! I hope it's both fun-filled and relaxing!

AJ

Small Steps to Happiness

If I love anything, it's new beginnings. They're such a great way to start fresh and really reevaluate the way you operate. Here are a few ways I've been trying to beautify, simplify, and peace-ify (not a word, oh well) my life:

Always have fresh flowers.

Really, how could your day not be brightened by this happy little arrangement? From the scent to the colors, there isn't a girl alive who doesn't love a fresh bouquet. I have been making a point to stop by the Whole Foods on the way home from work and pick up a pretty new stash when mine start to wilt.

Unsubscribe to unwanted e-mail chains.

Oh. My. Gosh. I can't even explain how many e-mail lists I didn't even realize I was on. I have made it such a habit of mindlessly deleting 90% of my inbox that I didn't even notice how annoyed I was every time I saw a new e-mail notification. Granted, I kept a few because a girl's gotta know when to get an extra 30% off of J. Crew's sale, but for the most part, I'm done!

Wag more, bark less.

I love, love, love this saying! Recently I've been trying to focus on "wag-worthy" aspects of life, and I've gotta tell ya - it helps! Turn that frown upside down, even if you're not particularly pleased, and I promise you'll be happier with the outcome.

Become completely immersed in the Bible.

When I think back on the past 22 years, the happiest, most peaceful times of my life have occurred when I was totally immersed in reading the Bible. Daily? Not always, although I wish that were the case. But still, every little bit helps. Words can't quite explain the peace that comes with this simple life change. I promise, if you make time for Him you'll be glad you did.

Nurture quality friendships

My move to Memphis has been a blast so far, but that doesn't mean I don't miss my lovely lady friends from Texas! Maintaining good friendships has become more and more important to me as I've gotten older, and for good reason. Other than your family, no one will be there for you as much as your girl friends. Remember that, ladies!

Have a great weekend everyone! After my first 40 hour work week...ever!..I can finally say I now fully understand the meaning of TGIF!

Love From Memphis, Y'all!

Well hello there, lovers! In case you haven't noticed, I've been on quite the little hiatus for the past month, but I promise it was for good reason. This Friday I moved to none other than MEMPHIS, TN to start my dream job at Southern Bride Magazine. So many fun things are going on in the office right now, and I can't wait for you all to see what we've been dreaming up! In the meantime, get in a cheerful mood when you take a peek at these brightly colored photos from one of my favorite weddings I've ever seen!

If that doesn't warm your heart, I don't know what will. I totally want my wedding day to be that bright and fun-filled one day!

Have a happy day, ya'll.

AJ