Shelby Nycole

the happiness project...and 2012 resolutions

2012-01-23T08:12:00.000-08:00

i really want to share my resolutions with you (I have a ridiculous number) without getting too personal. my hope is that by talking about them on here maybe I'll:

1. inspire others
2. be more inclined to stick with it

to make a really long story short - my goal, my resolution is to live my best life. make the most of everyday and be as happy as possible.

my mom bought me the happiness project by gretchen rubin for christmas and i immediately dove in. for some reason i feel the need to disclaim: i'm a very happy person. i'm rarely sad, never depressed. i find joy in the simplest things like a cozy blanket, cilantro and opening my sunroof in january. however i do believe that i can be happier. happier in my home, my work, my marriage, myself...life is short so why not make the very best of every day?

the happiness project is basically 12 resolutions broken down and tackled each month of the year. ranging from friendships to vitality to money and everywhere in between. i've started my own happiness project this year and while i plan to follow gretchen on some of her monthly resolutions - not all apply to my life so i'll be working on a few of my own.

first up is January and focusing on vitality: boosting my energy.

i'll go into greater detail in my next post but the basic idea is probably very similar to many of your resolutions: work out more, eat better, get organized etc.

so what are your resolutions? have you read the happiness project? would love to hear your experiences.

{photo by me}

late to the party....

2012-01-20T13:16:00.000-08:00

but hands down my fave look, fave gown....salma. gucci.

Source: google.com via Shelby on Pinterest

2011-12-30T15:19:00.000-08:00

wishing you a perfect 2012

{image via bergdorf goodman fall preview 2011 catalog}

holiday cards and new year's resolutions

2011-12-29T10:06:00.000-08:00

I know it's a bit late to be posting about holiday cards but I didn't get a chance to post before taking some time off with the family and they kind of fit into one of my new years resolutions so I'm posting them anyway.

I'm still finalizing all my resolutions and I'll probably do a full post about that soon - but one thing I've been thinking about a lot lately is to be more thoughtful. and one way to do this is to send more cards. holiday cards, just because cards, birthday cards etc. and since I love crafting - my goal is to make all of these cards myself. or at least try.

so this year I made a handful of Christmas cards and while I didn't send out as many as I'd hoped - It's at least at start. Don't take offense if you didn't get one from me - another part of my resolution is to start collecting people's addresses - so if you'd like a card from me - just email me your address.

as you can see there really is no rhyme or reason to my cards - no two were the same....I tend to just jump into my craft projects and see what happens. maybe that should be another resolution - planning ahead.

so do you have a favorite card? I'm pretty proud of my reindeer as I made him with a recycled Starbucks bag.

small business saturday

2011-12-05T13:18:00.000-08:00

being a small business owner myself I was thrilled to learn about small business saturday this year. (was it new this year or have I been living under a rock?) anyway - the saturday after thanksgiving - my fam and I happily ventured out to visit (and support!) some of our fave local small businesses. I picked up these goodies from kyss boutique. the bag was handmade in bali and the necklace from a local designer. love! did you participate in small business saturday?

{photos by me}

i NEED these mugs

2011-11-29T06:04:00.000-08:00

{from leif}

before & after :: poncho to pillows

2011-11-27T19:18:00.000-08:00

I've been looking for the perfect fabric to recover some pillows I have around the house but all the fabrics I came across were just wrong. good fabrics are too expensive. (and I'm not good enough at sewing to risk messing up some fancy fabric) stylish pillows are (in my opinion) way over priced...so imagine my delight while in H&M the other day and I came across this gem. it was exactly what I had in mind. and only $24.95! I was able to make three (yes THREE!) pillows from the material and they are so soft and cozy. and unique. of course I may have to go back and by another poncho to keep and wear for myself...

{top photo polyvore :: bottom photos me}

around the house :: thanksgiving

2011-11-24T08:47:00.000-08:00

we're hosting this year so I was so excited to decorate the dining table and mantle for our festive fall holiday. as usual I went to town with my gold spray paint.....wishing you a happy, yummy thanksgiving day.

{all photos by me}

2011-11-22T16:25:00.000-08:00

I'm obsessed with this

2011-11-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

via elora

happy veterans day

2011-11-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

via pinterest

catalogs.

2011-11-08T13:28:00.000-08:00

ever since taryn told me about the "catalogs" app - my ipad and I have been obsessed. you can browse hundreds of catalogs from many retailers (and I only assume the list will continue to grow), shop directly from the app, bookmark your faves and even make cute little collages. I put these together last night

2011-10-28T13:15:00.000-07:00

these were gifts given to my in-laws on their wedding day. and now I get to have them displayed on my mantle.

tricks and treats

2011-10-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

halloween is sneaking up fast. as usual I need to scramble for a last minute costume. dressing up isn't my favorite thing - I'd rather stay home and hand out candy to the kiddos.
but I did manage to find a few treats to get you in the mood...

links: skeleton apron, kitty slippers, graveyard treats, skull dishtowels, halloween decor, surf, silhouette pumpkin.

my "aha" recipe

2011-10-20T11:45:00.000-07:00

if you know me at all - you know I looooove salsa. like I would eat it with a spoon if no one was around. i sometimes just have chips and salsa for lunch.....or dinner. so imagine my delight when I discovered the genius that is salsa soup in martha stewart's everyday food mag. it was such a lightbulb moment for me! how had I never thought of this? it's sooo simple and the possibilities are endless. so far I've dried roasted red pepper and chipotle - preferring the chipotle.

give it a go and let me know what combinations you come up with.

I'm also excited to try some salsa verde with extra cilantro - possibly chilled for a summer treat?

just a smidge of pink

2011-10-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

via digsdigs

besides football

2011-10-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

a few of my favorite things about fall....
and then there's this song written by one of my favorites and performed by my all time favorite:

happiness

2011-09-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

see more here

see you next week....

2011-06-23T08:19:00.000-07:00

i'm off to spend a long weekend in the bay area - visiting family, shooting a gorgeous wedding and dinner with some seriously amazing ladies. xoxo

Source: Pinterest

fish tail/pig tail

2011-06-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

loving these fish tail pig tails - such a perfect summer do.

Source: us.mc448.mail.yahoo.com via Kendall on Pinterest

Source: becauseimaddicted.net via Christy on Pinterest

summertime....

2011-06-21T06:42:00.000-07:00

happy first day of summer! I'm looking forward to warm sunshine, colorful cocktails and lots of beach time...xo

bathing suit, sandals, woven bag, dress with hat, tangerine beverage, antique bottles, white dress, umbrella, model.

Dear Urban Outfitters,

2011-06-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

can you please start making king size duvet covers?

sincerely,

shelby nycole

emma stone

2011-06-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

I was first introduced to miss stone on either leno or letterman and thought she was such a doll and immediately went out to rent Easy A, which she was fab in. then I saw her on SNL and I was sold. quirky, down to earth, tom-boyish (is it just me or is she like a young jodi foster?) and apparently with 3 movies coming out this year - the new "it girl" well deserved, emma.

2011-06-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

such a fab shoot planned for today! see you tomorrow...

Kelli Murray GIVEAWAY

2011-06-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

my friend and favorite fashionista ms. kelli murray is doing a HUGE giveaway on her blog. Head over there and enter to win some of her amazing work. I have the "fancy living" print hanging in my house and I love it to pieces. Good Luck!

pretty projects

2011-06-10T15:07:00.000-07:00

Source: oncewed.com

I'm enthralled with these watercolor votives - just the kind of weekend project I've been craving - unfortunately with all the home/kitchen projects, there just isn't time for the pretty projects. however I do hope to reupholster my 1960s dining room chairs with my mother in law this weekend! It would be silly to even attempt to pick out fabric without her... what are you up to? xo

wedding wednesday :: the un-bride

2011-06-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

as a wedding photographer nothing inspires me more than the unique, the never been done before, the outside of the box, the risk etc....lucky for me the trend in weddings right now is: anything goes.
well almost anything....I know most girls dream of wearing a beautiful white dress on their wedding day (why wouldn't you?) - but what a statement you would make in one of these gorgeous, colored or (gasp!) black gowns. I'm hoping to see this trend a lot more in the near future.

I see this in a NYC evening wedding with plenty of fabulously dressed guests and the finest food and drink...

Source: theglitterguide.tumblr.com

this is probably the least risky but still makes a statement nonetheless.

Source: dandelionandgreyblog.com

Rachel Bilson is one of my faves so I don't know if it's her or the dress I'm drawn to but these pretty one shoulder ruffles are so sweet and simple. it would be gorgeous in white but the pale blush gives it some interestingness.

Source: thefashiondealer.com

I have a thing for navy and jewel tones right now...so glamourous and the white hair piece manages to keep it "weddingy"

Source: dandelionandgreyblog.com

this has some serious "wow" and would take some serious guts to pull off but I'm so. in. love. if you don't think you have what it takes to pull off black - I think it would be stunning in champagne, too. cheers!

Source: tig-fashion.blogspot.com

how much do i love this....

2011-06-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

I need some way of displaying flowers like this but - on my wall....hmm

Source: vintagerosebrocante.tumblr.com

hair whippin'

2011-06-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

hello sunshine!

2011-06-03T04:19:00.000-07:00

happy first weekend of june! hope everyone has a warm sunshiny friday! xo

Source: Pinterest

cleobella

2011-06-02T08:07:00.000-07:00

cleobella first came onto my radar about a year ago when the lines creator, Angela asked me and T to shoot her maternity photos (and more recently, photos of her new little man) - we instantly fell in love, with Angela (the hands down sweetest person on the planet), her home (full of treasures from all over the world) and of course cleobella, her handbag line. Everything about Angela & Cleobella is just good vibes - what more do you need? Check out the shop, blog and be sure to like their facebook page. xoxo

here are some of my fave pieces...

the navaeh

the mexicana clutch which comes in sooo many gorgeous colors - how can you choose?

wedding wednesday

2011-05-31T14:38:00.001-07:00

lately I've really been loving emerald greens just about everywhere and weddings are no exception. I would add a pale neutral to soften the look and keep it feminine. lovely.

links: shoes, tablescape, cake, florals, gown, bouquet, tablescape, green dress, ring.

kitchen update

2011-05-31T04:12:00.000-07:00

guess what? this weekend we actually cooked a meal in our kitchen for the first time in TWO MONTHS! it was very exciting stuff. It's sooo close to being finished but still needs some final touches so no pictures just yet. BUT - I will share this amazing kitchen with you - which looks nothing like ours - but is so amazing it needs to stand alone and have it's own blog post. kitchen heaven. xo

Source: Pinterest

morocco

2011-05-30T04:56:00.000-07:00

I can't stop thinking about morocco - I'm dying to get my hands on those spices, my camera on all those colors. I'm putting it out there universe....take me to morocco. xo

{all images via pinterest - click for source}

tonight....

2011-05-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

via pinterest

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!

i have a complex....

2011-05-27T04:39:00.000-07:00

I have issues with displaying my own work in my home - it's like there's something egotistical about it or something. I dream of the day when we have kids so we can have rad canvasses of their faces displayed all over the house - but why does it seem that I need the kid excuse to display my work?
I often find myself in coffee shops, stores - wherever, looking at the art on the walls thinking - I can do that. It's like when you were a kid and you went shopping with your mom and everything you picked out she'd say, "I can make that!" and you'd cringe at the thought.
anyway - I've been playing around with some of my photos from Paris and trying to figure out some way I could display them - of course with my complex, I've managed to distort them so maybe no one will realizing I'm showing off my own work in my house. it's ridiculous - I know. please help.

through the magic of photoshop I've created "stamped" versions of my photographs (the original is on the left)

I kind of like the clean, modern, graphic-ness (is that a word?) of the "distorted" version. but I can't decide if I like a neutral/b&w....or the funky pop of color....

I wish I could share these larger - but this will have to do. Your thoughts? color or b&w?

** see more of our paris photos here **

sheer leaders

2011-05-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm really feeling the soft, flowy and sheer styles this spring & summer - don't they just make you want to frolic in a meadow? not sure where my nearest meadow is but if I had any of these I'd be sure to find it! sweet with a side of sexy and clearly comfortable for those warm summer evenings.

play it safe with sheer sleeves...

{via shopbop}

this Lindsey Thornburg dress is oh so romantic

{via shopbop}

sheer footed...

{rock & republic at neiman marcus}

I plan to slowly replace all the blinds in my house with sheer window coverings - just imagine the calmness of them blowing in the gentle breeze - heaven.

{via urban outfitters}

words can't explain - I want to do a shoot with this skirt more than anything...

{via free people}

This needs to be a summer staple in my closet

{via urban outfitters}

and lastly, I just can't get enough of these loose pullover blouses - perfection.

{via anthropologie}

the dress (and trust....)

2011-05-25T07:59:00.000-07:00

today is "wedding wednesday" in the wedding industry - why we have to have a specific day - even though we pretty much work every single day is beyond me but I'm going with it...so I thought I'd make a weekly "wedding wednesday" post where I feature some of my work, others work, things that inspire me etc...so here we go! Part 1 - the dress.

dear bridesmaids, when the wedding photographer takes the dress out of the room to photograph it - please don't yell, "where are you taking that?!?" "be careful! don't get it dirty!" or "the photographer is stealing the dress!"

we've done this before, we are very careful and we are purely making pretty with it.

-thank you.

{photo by elizabeth messina - kiss the groom}

which brings me to part 2 of my post: trust. I LOVE it when a bride trusts us. when they believe in our work and know that whatever crazy things we ask them to do, they trust that it will be amazing. we're getting to that point, but still have some brides that need a little convincing. Elizabeth Messina (a legend in the wedding photo world) could probably tell her clients to stand on their heads and they would do it. and I'm sure when she took the dress (above) outside and hung it 15 feet in the air from from a tree branch - no bridesmaid even batted an eye. trust.

living rooms

2011-05-24T13:49:00.000-07:00

a few posts ago I mentioned that we returned from our vacation to find a flooded kitchen which resulted in what we're calling "the accidental remodel." the kitchen is in progress and I'll post those photos when it's done but what I haven't told you is that we found more mold - under the tile (I was secretly quite happy since I loathed that awful, cold, white tile) sooooo our kitchen remodel turned into an entire downstairs remodel. we replaced all the tile downstairs with saltillo tile (i'm so smitten) and are now beginning to repaint the walls since I wasn't feeling our cool blue/gray against the warm color tiles. now I'm beginning to fantasize about new elements I can bring into our living room to finally make this home our own.

the photo below has a lot of elements we already have: saltillo tile, white brick fireplace, white walls and dark hardwood stairs but I'm looking for something a little more cozy and with a few girly touches (just a few)

{via desiretoinspire.net}

I love the simplicity of this room, the bookshelves and of course the white furniture but with a black dog that's just not an option - I'm thinking charcoal gray couch?

{via design sponge}

this room may be too feminine but I love the dark couch (is it navy or gray?), obsessed with the rug and swooning over the french doors which - fingers crossed - will be replacing our awful sliding door very soon.

{via littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com}

so tell me - have you ever experienced an "accidental remodel"? what were the results?

create

2011-05-23T13:02:00.001-07:00

{via pinterest}

ok weekend - here we go!

2011-05-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

I'm going to need about six of these today - it's a busy weekend ahead - all day wedding today and a day full of shoots tomorrow. I'll be able to breath again on Monday....for a little bit. happy weekend! hope you're all relaxing with your feet up (and hopefully some sunshine on your faces) xo

via pinterest

to share with you....

2011-05-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

a recent shoot we were lucky to be a part of - some of my favorite images ever - see more here.

have you heard?

2011-04-21T17:41:00.000-07:00

my kitchen is in shambles. speaking of shambles - we visited the shambles in york, england on our trip. it's an actual street that back in the day was filled with butcher shops and they used to just throw their scraps and other gross things into the streets and it smelled awful - hence the term: shambles. just a little trivia for you.

anyway my kitchen is in shambles - not that it smells like rotting meat or anything (sorry for the mental picture) but more that it's non existent. when we returned from our trip we were welcomed home by a couple inches of water that so graciously dripped, no poured, down from the upstairs bathroom. After water and mold removal, extensive drying and demolition we are left with very little - no walls, no cabinets, counters....nothing. so we begin again.

I'm trying to stay very positive and have a sense of humor about all of this but doing dishes in my bathroom sink is getting real old. oh and not to mention the nightmare of dealing with our insurance company who are trying to give us pennies to rebuild. the nerve.

so I dream of someday (soon) having this...

{via elle decor}

but then again I'd be happy with just being able to finally do something so simple as this....

via styleist

dude.

2011-04-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

(via pinterest)

I meant to be a better blogger - I promised you that weeks (months?) ago. but as you know we took a tiny little trip to paris, london and south africa - so that's where I've been....then wedding season officially kicked off and well before you know it.....oh and right now I'm out the door to another shoot so I promise to be back soon with photos from our trip and oh so much more! xo

off to London!

2011-03-06T14:30:00.001-08:00

xoxo

{via pinterest}

sequins, baby

2011-02-19T08:48:00.000-08:00

I'm off to Vegas this weekend for a photog conference and a little partyin'. I see many-a-sequin in my future....

One Shoulder Embroidered Drape Dress by Halston Heritage,
Sequin-embellished silk-blend top,
Tory Burch Gordie sequin-embellished silk-blend jacket,
Violet Peacoat,
Upson Downes by William Anzevino Sequin Boxer Short,
Kate Spade Flash Ballet Flat Gold Sequins,
Miu Miu Sequin-embellished leather bag,
Halston Heritage 'Alice' Pleated Clutch,
Mix Metal Feather Drop Earring,
Sequin Bow Headband,
Amazon.com: Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas (Neon Sign) Art Poster Print,
Sequin Party Ball,
hot shot! camera ring,
Harper's Bazaar 09/2010 (UK) article

tomorrow i will feel like this...

2011-02-18T11:31:00.001-08:00

{thatgirlinpearls.com}

I will be on my way to vegas

I will be done with my taxes

I will have finished all my album designing and ordering

I will be done with laundry

I will have caught up on editing

I will be free (for a few days at least)

2011-02-17T11:32:00.000-08:00

soooo i may be a little late to the party but I've recently discovered pinterest and I'm h.o.o.k.e.d. the best place for inspiration and blog post ideas. so much pretty in one place - it should be outlawed. Here's my pins so far - I think it's safe to say I'm going through an orange and pink phase?

packing 101

2011-02-16T07:59:00.000-08:00

this is not a lesson in packing - I just couldn't think of another title.

I have some insane travel coming up in the next couple months. starting with a trip to vegas, followed quickly by a short trip to cabo and finally a looong (and much needed) vacation to Paris, London and South Africa. (eeeeeeeee!!!) I'm already starting to map out my suitcase in my head as I need to pack for two continents, two hemispheres, two seasons all in the same suitcase. it's exhausting just thinking about it. but I need to get clever with my choices and be able to wear the same pieces in a variety of ways (and climates!)

it's all about the layers! shorts paired with tights, blouses with a light scarf, hats for warmth and to block the sun...and neutral colors to easily mix and match (plus comfy shoes!).

Tsumori Chisato / Drapey Cardigan,
Sequin-embellished silk-blend top,
MOTO Indigo Denim High Waisted Hotpants,
Pamela Mann Sheer Stripe Tights,
Womens - View All - Boots - Payless Shoes,
SHEER STITCH ETERNITY SCARF, JANNISE

exposed brick

2011-02-15T14:34:00.000-08:00

what I wouldn't give for a studio space with exposed brick and floor to ceiling windows.....someday......soon.

{anthropologie}

berry wedding love

2011-02-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

I'm a bit in love with this berry color palette for a wedding. Purple seemed all the rage last year and honeysuckle pink was named this years pantone color of the year. add a soft, neutral background color and I'm in! to see more honeysuckle inspiration - click here.

{photo credits}

ne de Taillac 18k yellow gold Amethyst Ring,

Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding...

Wedding Cakes Photos by Cakes Confidential

Jose Villa | Fine Art Weddings

Kate Miller Events

white square

valentine inspiration

2011-02-14T13:11:00.001-08:00

see more here

paper hearts

2011-02-14T06:02:00.000-08:00

{photo by me}

i want to jump inside these images

2011-02-11T14:15:00.000-08:00

I'm ready for a hot, hot summer

{marc by marc jacobs}

have a fantastic weekend!! xo

jewelmint

2011-02-11T08:25:00.000-08:00

i finally set up a jewelmint account - I haven't purchased anything yet but kate bosworth personally recommended these rings to me so i'm thinking she knows what she's talking about?

bruno dayan

2011-02-09T16:24:00.000-08:00

can't get enough of these gorgeous frames from photographer bruno dayan.

let's step away from all the pink & red for a minute...

2011-02-09T07:57:00.000-08:00

Urban Renewal JOHANN Minky Dress

Honeydew Intimates Microfiber Boyshorts

Turquoise Double Heart Earrings

Braided Pendant Long Necklace, Turquoise

Missoni Acqua 1 oz Eau de Toilette Spray

Urban Outfitters - Straw Heart Vanity Case

girl crush: lake bell

2011-02-08T11:44:00.001-08:00

so i've been watching last seasons episodes of how to make it in america and have developed a full on girl crush on lake bell. i love her style on the show - effortless. a girl who can hang with the guys but all the girls want to hang with too.

and have you heard the soundtrack for this show?? perfection.

my lavaliere

2011-02-08T07:49:00.000-08:00

i completely adore these vintage headbands from my lavaliere. preciousness.

oh and this vintage camera ring? dying.

I can't quit you...

2011-02-07T09:05:00.000-08:00

so I thought I was closing the door on shelby nycole, things just got crazy busy with joielala and it felt silly to try to keep up with another blog. however I'm constantly looking at other blogs for photography inspiration and just to get the creative juices flowing throughout my day while I'm editing or whatever it is I'm doing. so I'm back. posting things I like, things that inspire, that keep the juices flowing...

starting with this headboard (you've probably seen it all over the blog world) that I'm ready for the hubs to make for me. like today. but I don't know if I want "love" - it feels a little girly to me. any other ideas? "dream"?

(image via life in the super burbs)

sequined bloomers

2010-09-12T18:25:00.000-07:00

over labor day weekend my mom and I spent at least an hour at j. crew while I helped her find an outfit to wear to a wedding in ireland this fall - lucky girl, huh? in that hour I probably walked over to the mannequin sporting these darling bloomers a million times - I was drooling.

how fun would these be for a boudoir shoot??

insane

2010-08-31T10:29:00.000-07:00

I can't possibly think of enough adjectives to even begin to do this wedding justice. go check it out on LANE. these people have fabulous style and the guts to pull it all off. (adding this to my inspiration board stat)

yumi kim

2010-08-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

I was wearing a dress the other day and someone asked me if it was a yumi kim. it wasn't. but it reminded me to check out the latest yumi kim and I fell in love. enjoy. the one below on the left is called "grey garden" love! and they're having a summer sale right now!

off to mammoth

2010-08-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

we're off to mammoth lakes to shoot a rad wedding this weekend. enjoy yours and see you next week!

{via we heart it}

love.

2010-08-19T15:13:00.000-07:00

need supply

:: sigh ::

2010-08-18T15:04:00.000-07:00

Well it's that time of year I guess. Weddings are in full swing and I've been a busy bee. I'm currently stuck in my dungeon (well technically it's my upstairs office but it feels like a dungeon because the curtains are drawn so as to not let any of that hot, hot and I mean HOT sun inside)
editing away, designing albums, responding to emails etc - but all. is. good. No complaints here. So before I just get back into it without any sort of segue - you need to see what's been keeping me away. go here.

lane

2010-07-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

i was recently introduced to a new wedding website call lane. don't be scared if you aren't a bride - it's not like that. i promise. i know you all like pretty pictures. here are loads of them. enjoy.

summertime

2010-07-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

happy weekend! so the weather has been gorgeous these past few days and i'm thrilled it's friday. as soon as hubs gets home from surfing we're going to have a little bbq and some of this delicious pink lemonade from trader joes (perhaps mixed with an adult liquid?)

what are your plans this weekend? any fun festivals, concerts, parties?

{photos by me}

Featured! Wedding Chicks!

2010-07-12T13:02:00.000-07:00

Hello blog friends! Exciting news! As most of you are aware, Taryn and I have a little photog business called joielala photographie...where we like to shoot pretty things like weddings and such. Well we did a little wedding inspiration shoot and today it's being featured on the ever popular wedding blog: Wedding Chicks. So please head over there and check it out - and PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT (over there, but you can leave one here too if you like ;)). We'll love you forever if you do! XOXO

Romper (with) Room

2010-07-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

Ok terrible title - I know. But I'm sooo excited that I found a romper that actually fits me! Taryn and I were just having this conversation about rompers last weekend in SF. It seems that rompers were just not made for us slightly longer waisted ladies. Every one I've tried ends up giving me - well - camel toe for lack of a better description. Until now...today while in Anthropologie trying to avoid the clothes section all together - I stumbled upon this little number right in between the fancy doorknobs and shelf brackets.

It was too cute not to pass up so I tried it on and.....it fit! And I didn't have to buy a size larger hoping it would be longer rather than wider. And the best part? the straps are adjustable! So I can go even longer if needed. And at $58 I thought it was a very reasonable Anthro purchase.
I can't wait to wear it all summer long...

I'm outta here....

2010-06-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

Taryn and I are off to Santa Cruz and San Francisco for the weekend. Lots of shoots, meetings, shopping, eating and just hangin out. See you next week. xo

Inspired :: Wai Lin Tse

2010-06-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

Wai Lin Tse for Urban Outfitters

i bought you some peonies

2010-06-17T12:06:00.001-07:00

to make up for my lack of blogging. please forgive me?

{photo by me, peonies from trader joes)

happily ever after

2010-06-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

I posted photos of a beautiful wedding we shot last month in La Jolla - see them here

BottleHood

2010-06-07T14:55:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend Rich and I took the coaster down to Solana Beach to meet up with friends for Fiesta Del Sol. We had a great day enjoying some beer, listening to great music and checking out all the great arts and crafts. One booth that stuck out to me was the BottleHood booth. A local company that recycles wine, liquor and beer bottles of local bars and restaurants and turns them into incredible glassware, dishware and even jewelry!

A vase made from a bottle of Tequila

Tumblers made from recycled wine bottles

Glasses made from Skyy Vodka bottles

What a simple idea and yet such a cool concept. San Diegans are lucky to have such creative artists around who are making our city a cleaner {and more beautiful} place. Check out their website!

The Secret

2010-06-02T14:56:00.000-07:00

{photo by me - wish tickets a birthday gift from my sister-in-law}

Shockingly - I don't think this is something I've talked about on the blog - but maybe I have - who knows - I'm losing my mind these days. I dropped a check in the mail the other day WITHOUT ADDRESSING it. Yep it's just floating out there somewhere with a postal worker shaking their head and rolling their eyes.

Anyway - The Secret - that book/movie that Oprah talked about years ago? I was a little late to the party but oh how happy I am that I went. I'm not a religious person at all but I've always believed that if you live your life with kindness and love, good things will happen to you. And this is sort of the idea behind The Secret. Basically, through the power of positive thinking and the law of attraction, you can have whatever you dream out of life. Anything! Love, money, success, health etc.

To further convince you {and to attempt to make a long story short} I was reading the section of the book about money - and decided to put out there in the universe that I wanted x amount of money by the end of the month. Now "x amount" was in my mind a ridiculous sum of money - something that I couldn't just stumble upon or get in a birthday card. It was pretty significant. After thinking about that amount, visualizing a check coming in the mail - the universe did just that. I received a check for just under the amount I'd asked for!* I was sold.

Every day I ask the universe to bring me happiness, health, success, money, love etc. I recite and even write down what I'm thankful for and try to keep negative thoughts at bay. I'm not trying to preach anything to anyone - I just wanted to share my experiences. We only live once, so why not make it the best life ever?

So I'm going to put out a few more goals, dreams, hopes, wishes into the universe right here on this blog - and we'll check back to see when they come true:

- visit NYC in the next 6 months
- visit London in the next year
- book 30 weddings in 2011
- workout regularly, eat healthy
- remember how lucky I am
- surround myself with beauty
- smile and have fun everyday
- buy a Chanel bag someday ;)

*we did acquire even more than the exact amount that month through photography gigs etc.

An Education

2010-05-26T11:06:00.000-07:00

I recently rented this film and I fell in love with it - all of it. It really struck me visually, plus it's an interesting film and just all around good. Carey Mulligan is a modern day Audrey Hepburn.

I highly recommend sitting down with a glass of wine and enjoying all the lovely fashions of Miss Mulligan and Rosamund Pike. But I must warn you - it just may make you want to put on some pearls and French music and smoke cigarettes.

catching up

2010-05-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

I've been neglecting my poor little blog lately - but things have been really busy in my "other worlds." Here's a little glimpse at what I've been up to...

Taryn & I shot an insanely cool photoshoot over the weekend - I can't even explain how excited we are about this.

On Sunday we shot a beautiful La Jolla wedding.

We met up with Karrie - who won our joielala photoshoot giveaway. She's a doll! And we're so excited for her shoot.

And we've been meeting, scheming, planning, shooting, dreaming, wishing...so things have been busy.

I promise to keep you posted with all the goings on. And I also promised you some Vegas shots. Here's one I took in "old Vegas" with my Holga - Rich tells me I need to keep the camera still, maybe he's right, but they weren't ALL like that. Besides, I think it adds a little more interestingness, right?

I'll post some more next week on joielala

miss e :: boudoir :: san diego

2010-05-19T14:29:00.001-07:00

Thank you all for the birthday wishes! I've had such an amazing few days and I'm feeling pretty loved right about now. Vegas was so great - I took a few photos with my Holga and had them developed yesterday. I'll post those tomorrow or later this week. In the meantime head over to joielala and check out miss e's boudoir slideshow. she's a stunner! xoxo

THREE-OH

2010-05-17T07:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Me - He took me to Vegas ;) It was AMAZING {I'm still in recovery mode}. See you tomorrow.

On the road

2010-05-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

{we heart it}

still packing...

2010-05-12T17:49:00.000-07:00

packing is always a challenge for me - throw in not knowing where I'm going and it'll take me all day. I do know that I'm bringing my new blouse to wear during the days,

{uo}

This dress {with pockets!} for a night out

{uo}

oh and my birthday present to myself :D

Plus another {sequined} dress, a fedora for the pool and my yellow seersucker bikini from j.crew. Can you tell I'm excited??

See you next week!
XOXO

Don't know where I'm goin...

2010-05-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

So on Thurdsday Rich and I are leaving for a few days and going...somewhere. I have no idea where since it's a surprise - for my upcoming birthday.

He's dropped little hints and so far this is what I know:

- We're driving, so it's a road trip of some sort {yay!}

- He says I'll probably know where we're going when we're about 2 hours away...that rules out Disneyland because it's less than 2 hours from home ;)

- We're staying in a hotel - a "famous" hotel according to him. Coming from a boy - this can mean anything....

- We're bringing all the camera gear, so it's definitely a photo related trip. I hope to take some shots with my film cameras {and maybe I'll paint my fingernails yellow}

- I was instructed to pack something sexy {earmuffs for our moms} I think he means for going out - not for staying in - though I'm sure he would appreciate both ;) I'm thinking sequins...

I usually can't handle surprises and do everything in my power to figure out what the surprise is but I'm trying to be good and just go along with it. {Yes this blog post is me being good, I could be much worse}

I know it will be amazing no matter what. Thank you Rich Babe {ahead of time} for a wonderful weekend - I had the best time ;)

all images via we heart it.

Flickr faves

2010-05-10T13:56:00.000-07:00

Here's to happiness!

Sunday Morning

2010-05-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

I made you some macadamia nut pancakes. But I ran out of syrup so you get powdered sugar instead. Happy Sunday!

:: boudoir :: joielala ::

2010-05-06T13:08:00.000-07:00

Boudoir photos are up on joielala! Leave us a comment and let us know what you think. And don't forget to enter the giveaway - tomorrow is the last day xoxo

Cover Girl

2010-05-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

I'm loving Drew Barrymore's Cover Girl campaign. Girl has never looked better.

images via drewbarrymore.com

Feliz Cinco De Mayo!

2010-05-05T08:54:00.000-07:00

In all seriousness every day is Cinco De Mayo at our place. We eat Mexican food like it's going out of style and margaritas...well I'm having one as I write this (it's actually Tuesday night as I write this so....no need for an intervention)
To get in the spirit of this great holiday - I wouldn't mind sportin this little number for the summer.

{Billabong}

Hope your day is muy bueno.
XOXO

And don't forget to enter to win a free photoshoot. The giveaway ends Friday.

Flickr faves

2010-05-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! I had the BEST weekend EVER! Let me tell you a little about it...

On Saturday Taryn and I went to Pannikan to meet up with Brandi, Haydee and Heather for brunch. And it turned into a three hour conversation that had we not cut off would have gone on for the rest of the day I'm sure.
It was a very special day spent with incredibly special women. I'm honored to have met you all and can't wait for the next meet up - I'll "visualize" until it happens ;)

On Sunday I spent the day with my hubby - we had lunch at Casa De Bandini ending with ice cream and churros...we walked on the beach, watched dolphins surf, took a long nap and wrapped up the day with a bbq with good friends. Happy girl.

So it's May - my birthday month, more importantly the month I turn 30. I plan to celebrate all month long and this weekend was a perfect way to kick it off.

And to kick off this week...flickr faves:

Yes please

2010-05-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

{via we heart it}

Big News & Free Stuff

2010-04-30T08:36:00.001-07:00

So Taryn and I have been teasing you guys with "exciting news" for awhile now and we're SO excited to finally share it! As most of you know Taryn and I are both photographers, we eat, sleep, drink, breathe photography. We get together as often as we can to talk about it, to shoot anything and everything and now we're finally putting all that creativity and energy into a little collaboration we like to call joielala photographie! And to show you just how excited we are about this we're giving away a FREE PHOTOSHOOT! So head over there and enter! And spread the word to everyone you know ;)

Happy Friday!

Tablescapes

2010-04-29T09:10:00.000-07:00

This will be the first Spring/Summer in our new home and I can't wait to host dinner with friends up on the deck...and maybe, just maybe master the art of table setting. Here's some ideas to get the creative juices flowing. Now I just need some recipes...any recommendations?

{All images via House Beautiful}

Encinitas

2010-04-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Street Fair 2010
{Photos be me}

Flickr faves

2010-04-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

I was a slacker yesterday - actually I was super busy editing photos from this. And I didn't have my coffee - so I'm having a little extra today...

Happy Featured Friday!

2010-04-23T18:01:00.001-07:00

Our shoot with Troy and Sarah was featured on Forget Me Knot Weddings blog. Check it out for fabulous inspiration.

And have yourself a wonderful weekend! xoxo

Gotta Love a Good Collaboration ;)

2010-04-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

We talked about loving awesome cover songs and now I want to talk about a collaboration that I'm in love with. A couple months ago I randomly caught Joss Stone & Leanne Rimes: Crossroads on CMT. Blown. Uh. Way. For the next hour or so I was enthralled going back and forth thinking, "Leanne has a better voice, no Joss, nope Leanne..." Really it doesn't matter, they both have major talent and together they're unbelievable.

Ridiculous

Boudoir Preview...

2010-04-21T10:23:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned last week Taryn and I teamed up for a boudoir shoot. We had such a great time with these beautiful girls - I think it was such a fun, liberating experience for all of us. drumroll please....

We have some exciting news to share with you all very soon so stay close ;)

Flickr Favorites :: Portraits

2010-04-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

Thank you all so much for your sweet words last week. I'm 75% better. I don't want to complain because I know it could be much worse but all I want to do right now it devour a bag of chips! I spent all day yesterday on the couch torturing myself with the Food Network. I'm still a little sore and definitely puffy but hope to be back to normal soon.

Let me share some lovely portraits with you. All so inspiring. See you tomorrow!

My last day of eating solid foods.

2010-04-14T09:39:00.000-07:00

The wisdom teeth are coming out tomorrow. I'm not at all nervous about the actual surgery part. However I am nervous about how I'll act or what I'll say when I come out of surgery {I've heard some pretty hilarious stories}. And I'm definitely nervous about the recovery process but I'm looking forward to some lazy time with Zu dog and Rich taking good care of both of us.

I didn't have time to schedule any posts so I may be signing off until next week. If that's the case I hope you all have a lovely weekend and enjoy all your meals, chew slowly and be thankful for your teeth ;)

Here's another green shot - I've taken a bunch but posted only a few. I also need you guys to let me know what color is up for next month. Leave it in the comments below!

Again, have a great weekend and take a little time to roll around in the grass with someone you love.

Max Tees

2010-04-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

I often follow Max Wanger's blog to see what he's up to and try to absorb some of his creativity. In addition to his fantastic photography, Max has been turning his art into fashion.

Each month he creates a limited edition t-shirt from one of his prints. This month is pink balloons. I adore this, especially the little balloon on the back. Buy it here.

In other news, the boudoir shoot Taryn and I had yesterday was SOO much fun. We can't wait to give you guys a little sneak peek {probably next week so stay tuned} And if you're in Southern California {or really anywhere for that matter, we LOVE to travel} and are thinking about a shoot we'd love to hear from you!