I love creating different Spotify playlists, and I had a holiday playlist that I created last year just for myself and kept private. BUT I added some goodness to it recently and decided to make it public! I mean, there isn’t much better than some classic Christmas tunes, so shouldn’t we all share them together!?
If you love a good playlist, be sure to check out this post and this one.
And if you have any favorite holiday tunes, I’d love to hear! Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –
I mean… did you really live in San Francisco if you don’t get a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge?
Obviously, I’m kidding but you know it was on my bucket list for our short year in the city, so I was so honored to collaborate with the talented Brittany and JB behind JBJ Pictures to make these photos come to fruition!
While shooting with these two, it became so obvious why a bride would choose them to capture their wedding day. Brittany and JB pay so much attention to detail, understand both the female concerns (Is my hair crazy? Is this a flattering angle? Do I have lipstick on my teeth?) as well as the male direction (Put your hand in your pocket, stand up straight, etc.).
They artfully and thoughtfully guided us through the shoot, which I loved, while also letting us naturally be ourselves. And they happen to have the sweetest love story I’ve ever heard. You can read more about them here, but if you have the pleasure of meeting with them, you must ask about how they met and fell in love!
I feel so lucky to have these photos to remember our year in San Francisco. I’ve shared with you guys here and here that it hasn’t been the smoothest transition, but I know I will look back on this time of my life and feel like I grew from the experience. You never know what you’re made of until you’re in the thick of it, right?
Fun fact: these photos were taken on none other than… a nude beach. We casually walked down the steps to the sand and there was a man just fully laid out right by the entrance. Christian thinks if you look closely at some photos you might see some buns in the background – I mean, it’s definitely not the wildest thing we’ve seen in the city but feels notable nonetheless!
A huge thank you to Brittany and JB for capturing a sweet afternoon and memory of San Francisco. If you’re a bride, I’d really encourage you to check out some of their engagement and wedding portraits (and peek at their swoon-worthy Instagram here). Their work is stunning, and they are the most fabulous duo to work with – so incredibly thoughtful and kind!
Comin’ at you December with some holiday gift guides! You can find all holiday related content in the “holiday” tab at the top of this site. You’ll also find a drop down tab from there that says “gift guides.” There you can find all gift guides from this year and years past to help serve some inspo for your holiday shopping!
For the guys –
1 | I mean, maybe this is dropping a hint (or is the Southerner in me), but every man should skim through this book.
8 | I saw a guy in the Apple store wearing Vans in this color and I thought they were SO cute. So different than the usual guys sneakers!
10 | Everyone loves some cozy slippers! C loves these.
11 + 14 | I think having games is such a fun twist from the traditional dinner and a movie night. I love the thought of giving beautiful board games like this one and this one.
12 | I know most guys don’t wear pajamas, but I think it’s important to have some decent ones when traveling.
13 | I bought Christian some drawstring linen pants years ago and he was like “I’m never going to wear these.” Cut to now and wears them around the house all the time. ALL the time.
15 | Clear travel bags – not a sexy gift but a practical and very useful gift for the traveler.
18 | While we’re talking about traveling, if you don’t have one of these slim multi-charge battery packs, you need one in your life ASAP.
2 + 5 | I love love LOVE these mini palettes (aphrodisiac and heat). They are perfect for travel and have everything you need for a day and night look.
8 | This is for the sister or girlfriend, but trust me – it’s the best face self-tanning product I’ve ever tried!
10 | I asked for these one year and keep them in the fridge, still use them on special days. I love that they make a less expensive version.
13 | This will last someone a lifetime – the gift that keeps on giving!
14 | On my list!
16 | I just got this bag and it’s so cute. I especially love that you can wear it year-round.
17 + 18 | There isn’t a mug cuter than this one. Pair it with some tea and give to a coworker!
20 + 21 | I have one of these gorgeous scarves and it looks so expensive. I think they’re so gorgeous and would be an amazing gift for a mom or mother-in-law!
23 | My favorite grocery bags. I have three and they’re the only ones I use because they’re so incredibly durable and hold so much.
I hope that gives some guidance and help in the small gift department! I’m going to be working on creating more gift guides in the upcoming weeks, so if there is something in particular you’d love to see (gifts for kids, coworkers, gifts under $100, etc.) – let me know!
If you’re looking for a little bit bigger of a splurge in the jewelry department, I shared this necklace in this post last week. You can customize it to make it your own, which makes it such a unique and sweet gift for a mom or mother-in-law! My favorite charms are the horseshoe, key, k, c and this feather. I also recently got this jewelry box and I can’t get over how much I love it. They make a smaller one too!
– remembering this cozy and peaceful weekend in Timber Cove –
– some twinkle lights… the extent of my holiday decorating in our small apartment –
Happy Friday, friends! It feels so long since I’ve posted the week’s highlights. Too long!
Can you believe it’s almost December? October, November and December are my favorite months of the year (and probably most people’s favorite… right!?), and they always seem to zoom right by. I’ve been looking forward to living in the city during the holidays where I can walk around and spy on everyone’s Christmas decorations, and I have to say, it’s living up to my expectations.
We are actually out of town right now (more on where we are the adventures on Instagram – will be sharing on the blog next week!), but when we get back there are several holiday “to-do’s” I have on my list to experience with Christian, starting the the Fairmont’s Gingerbread House that I’ve heard is so incredible. Along with ice skating, checking out all of the retail windows (one year we visited SF and there were kittens up for adoption in the Macy’s window – brilliant!) and just soaking in the quick few weeks of the holiday season.
What are the December traditions in your neighborhood? I’d love to hear! Thanks so much for reading – XO –
Remember a few weeks ago when I suggested a pre-holiday prep party for Thanksgiving? A time to get your friends together, have a fun time and get some things checked off your list?
I love different holiday party ideas, and this is on that same page, except a gift wrapping party before the holidays! Over the years I’ve found gift wrapping to actually be really fun. I love getting a little more creative, incorporating different hang ties (like these or these) and adding a touch of greenery or holly to each gift.
Why not have your friends over, bring out the appetizers, holiday music and Stella Artois and wrap some gifts together? Better yet, bring out the B.A.R.T., Bartending Automated Robotic Technology, and turn your robot vacuum into a bartender! This limited-edition attachment can velcro on any robot vacuum and is only $19.99 (while supplies last). B.A.R.T. cleans, serves snacks, beer bottles and chalices – truly the gift that keeps on giving.
I mean… if this doesn’t bring a hilarious element of fun to a holiday party, I don’t know what does. We have had a robot vacuum for several years now and I truly would never want to live without it. Having two pets, it’s a game changer. Another pro of the B.A.R.T. is that you can be like the Barnes crew and get your pre-party prep on a little early to clean up some of the house before your guests arrives. And it can also serve me a beer? NOW we’re talking.
You might be thinking, “Kathleen honey, do you really think you can put 4-8 bottles and glasses of beer on a vacuum and it won’t spill?” The answer is yes, sister! The way this bad boy was designed it’s guaranteed not to spill in transit. It’s magic!
Are you planning on hosting for the holidays this year? Or do you have a themed party tradition that you can’t imagine skipping (hello tacky sweater party!)? I’d love to hear what your plans are this year!
If you want to host your own gift wrapping party, I hope this party prep post will inspire your wrapping skills. And then you can grab a cold Stella and toast to your beautifully wrapped gift. So really, it’s a win-win.
And tell me if you’re also a robot vacuum lover and if you can see yourself using the B.A.R.T. I can’t get over how fun this thing is and I love that anyone can snag their own for under $20! I mean, that’s a good time.
I’m having a major pink moment right now and I can’t help but mention, “on Wednesdays we wear pink.” I think this would be such a fun holiday party outfit that is fun, festive but not expected! Throw some pink and leopard in it… why not!?
Pink faux fur, pink feather earrings and even better – the perfect pink matte lip that I recently discovered at the Bloomingdale’s YSL counter. I first discovered YSL lipsticks when I was lured to the counter because of their gorgeous Vulupté Shine lipsticks. I’ve fallen down the rabbit hole of loving matte lipstick, so I tried their Slim Matte Lipstick and it packs some serious color!
I’m a believer that there are a few shades that work for everyone, and I think a mauve-y pink is one of them. And of course a bright red like this one. Which is why they’d be such a great holiday gift for your lady who loves trying new beauty picks!
Have you ever gotten lost in the beauty counters at Bloomingdale’s? I mean, especially during the holidays. Let’s be honest, there’s nowhere I’d rather stroll!
I’m excited to start sharing more holiday gift ideas with you guys on CBL in the weeks to come! You can find all holiday-related content on this site by clicking the “holiday” page at the top of this site. Underneath a drop down for gift guides is also available! Today I’m sharing a gift idea for the sister, mom or mother-in-law in your life from Kendra Scott.
I first discovered Kendra Scott while visiting my girlfriend Anna in Dallas around eight years ago. She was wearing the Danielle earrings and I was like, “who makes these because I can’t live without them!” I bought these and left town with my first piece of Kendra Scott (scroll down for my earring collection – clearly I still adore the Danielle earring).
Since then I’ve expanded my collection, and today I wanted to share their new Charms Collection! What I love most about this is that you could team up with a sibling to pick out a few charms to put on one necklace that have meaning to you or the person you’re gifting. Kendra Scott always does a great job of making the necklace chains adjustable which means their necklaces can be worn with any neckline and any outfit. So smart!
And of course I can’t go without mentioning this jewelry box. I have had my jewelry organized on a tray (blog post here) for quite some time, but when I saw this gorgeous piece I knew it would be so helpful in organizing my earrings and bracelets. I love how beautiful and sleek it is, and it would be the most GLAM splurge gift for the girl who loves here jewelry. I mean… who doesn’t!?
1 | You’ve seen me style this faux fur coathere. I shared my full review and I have to say, I think for this price it’s one of the best out there. AND it’s
8 | I absolutely love these leggings that are currently marked down (recently styled here and here). They’re comfortable, chic and SLEEK. I recently also added these to my collection and they are also amazing and 40% off (styled here and here)!
9 | I bought these slippers in two colors – love the blush and beige!
10 | If you search “leopard booties” you’ll find tons of posts. I’ve only had mine for a few months and I wear them with everything. These elevate any outfit!
11 | I’ve always wanted one of these skull scarves, so I snagged this one 25% off!
12 | I have and love this mascara. If you like big, thick, dark lashes – this is your friend.
16 | One day, when I have the pantry of my dreams (which is any pantry at all because I’ve never had one), I will buy these organizers and live my BEST life!
17 | I love love love this mirror in the floor length version. So gorgeous I would love to snag it for my forever home!
19 | I talk about Nespresso’s nonstop (if you search “Nespresso” you’ll find many blog posts, including this one!). They’re my fave and this one is marked down!
I hope you guys have had a relaxing and turkey-filled Thanksgiving weekend! The Black Friday deals were pretty incredible, and this year Cyber Monday does not disappoint! Above are my favorite picks (including things I may have bought for myself), and below are all the best sale details!
You can find all holiday-related content under “holiday” at the top of this page, along with all of my holiday gift guides!
Some other things I bought were these joggers, these socks, an Isabel Marant belt, a treat for Barnez, a birthday gift for mom and my niece’s birthday gift. Stack ’em up baby! A few more of my Cyber Monday picks below:
But now, onto the juicy scoop – and thank you so much for choosing CBL for your the scoop on Black Friday shopping! XO –
11 | I bought these rad leather pants two weeks ago and am kicking myself… could have waited and scored a major discount!
15 | I have a Gucci belt bag, but this one can be worn multiple ways and I am seriously debating…
BUT MORE ABOUT THOSE SALES…
I hope everyone had a fun and relaxing day yesterday for Thanksgiving! I love this time of year because we get the fun of Halloween, the gratefulness and full bellies of Turkey Day and the joy and love of Christmas. The best.
This year, I decided to break up my favorite Black Friday pieces by category! This weekend I’ll be keeping both the below retailer sales as well as my picks for Black Friday updated by the following breakdown:
It feels like holiday sales start earlier and earlier every year! I want you guys to know that there are lots of deals that have already started! I’m going to be keeping this post updated all weekend. I’ll also be posting new codes, sales, picks and gift ideas through Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You can come to CBL and stay up-to-date, sister!
You can also find all holiday content under the “holiday” tab at the top of the page, which drops down to all holiday gift guides from this year and years past. Now onto the good stuff –
You guys, don’t miss out on that Shopbop sale. I bought these pants a few weeks ago and now am kicking myself I didn’t wait until they were marked down!
Thank you so much to everyone who checked out the super fun video I shot with Neiman Marcus to promote their InCicle membership I posted Friday! It was a Carrie Bradshaw-filled day for sure and probably one of the biggest “pinch me” moments of this little blog’s career.
Hope you had a great weekend and Happy early Thanksgiving week! I hope everyone will have the time to take a step back, turn their phones off and really soak up the time you have with the people around you. Life is short, and there’s no better time to enjoy one of the greatest gifts in life – your relationships. Love you guys, XO –
I can’t EVEN with this faux fur jacket. I wish you guys could feel what I’m feeling right now to see how incredible this beauty really is!
The sale of animal fur is actually illegal in San Francisco, so finding the perfect faux pieces are a priority. This coat is all the things – the perfect color, length of fur, deep pockets, a heavy weight that feels luxe, warm and chic. And I just discovered this blazer with faux fur cuffs at Bloomingdale’s. Need ASAP.
When it comes to holiday parties, there’s no better time to add faux fur (or sequins!) in my opinion. I think styling a piece like this with faux leather leggings and OTK boots make this outfit appropriate for any holiday party or get together. I also think it would look fabulous with light denim jeans and black ankle booties or a leather mini skirt (40% off) and OTK boots.
I chose to belt the waist with a belt bag to give myself a little shape, but scroll down to see it without the belt bag. I love it just as much!
Do you have a faux fur piece you love most in your closet? I’d love to hear what it is!
Another faux fur item I reach for over and over each winter is a classic black faux fur vest. You can wear it a ton of different ways, it’s cozy while still being a vest so it’s not too cozy, and even better if it’s long enough to cover your bum. Bloomingdale’s has some fabulous options here (30% off) and here (40% off)!
Tell me if you’re pulling out the faux fur this holiday season. There’s no better time! Thanks so much for reading – XO –
I’m so excited to share a super fun video that was filmed with Neiman Marcus last month to promote their InCircle membership! This video was shot in Dallas and Fort Worth, and I had such an amazing day with the most fabulous team. I didn’t want it to end!
I’m actually an InCircle member myself, so some of the best perks of being a part of InCircle must be shared, like:
1. Pick a day to earn double points on your purchases in store, online or by catalog.
2. You have access to their InCircle Concierge, which offers seasons professionals to help arrange in-demand restaurant reservations, personalized travel experiences and wait-listed runway styles and more.
3. Use your Perks Cards toward store services like lunch at Neiman Marcus restaurants, alterations or expedited store delivery!
You can see all the member benefits here. Fun fact: since filming this video, I’ve been to Neiman Marcus in two different cities. And you know I used my InCircle card both times… except it was without a camera crew, gorgeous wardrobe and team of stylists to make me feel like my most glamorous self whilst shopping. Ah, memories.
Thank you so much for reading and watching! I’d love to hear what you think of the video and if you too have a personal memory or story from Neiman Marcus experience.
Until then, I’ll dream of this day, turnovers with strawberry butter and this Alexis sequined blazer.
