Wish Me Luck, and Thank You!

Hello Blog Besties!

I hope you won't be totally devastated, (ha!) if I interrupt the regularly scheduled Fashion Friday to bring you a little about little 'ole me.  Since I've been writing this blog for about four months now, I've also been reading blogs like crazy.  

I have so enjoyed getting to know so many awesome fellow bloggers out there. I feel like I have met these gals and have really gotten to know them, and they are my friends! I mean, after all, I read what they have to say several times a week. Usually bloggers write about their passion, but a lot of times, they just speak from the heart. Either way, I have read some really wonderful and touching things, and I have loved making friends with otherwise complete strangers.

So, I guess I'll take this as an opportunity to share with all of you awesome readers a little more about me!

Ta-Da!!!

I can totally see my almost 4 year old, Hank, in this pic! I guess I was a poser from the beginning.

Anyway...

After what feels like years of training, Saturday morning I am scheduled to run the Alston+Bird LLP Corporate Cup Half-Marathon right here in the Queen City. This is my first time running this race, so I'm not sure what to expect, but I hear it's kinda really hilly.

Yikes!

I say years of training, because it's the fifth half marathon I've trained for in the last few years, but if I make it across the finish line, it will be the third one actually completed, due to annoying injuries. I think after this, I'm going to take a break.  

I have no idea whether or not taking a break will be humanly possibly for me, but I am going to try.

You see, I am abso-freaking-lutely exhausted. Obviously not me, but this is how I feel. And, I know I'm not the only one out there who would give their right arm to sleep like this! This whole stay-at-home Mom thing is sometimes... well... just down right ridiculous. Does anyone out there know what I'm talking about? I had no freaking clue!

I mean, I started babysitting when I was like 10 years old. I placed Nannies for a living for over eight years. You would think I had a clue, but I am here to tell you I did not.

Holy Smokes.

Maybe it is just me, and I am weaker than I thought. Oh Hell. I think it may be time to break out my Super Powers bracelet.

Watch out.

I'll be running laps around the Kenyans come Saturday. I will say this one thing, however, about my choice to stop working after Worth was born. As much as I do feel a lot of the time that I am completely on lock-down being a Mommy, I feel totally liberated in other areas of my life.

Why, just today I was talking to a former client with a new found sense of freedom. I mean, I can talk to these people like they are my peers now and not be so buttoned-up. Which leads me to one of the many reasons why I SO love writing this blog so much. I can say whatever the hell I want to say!

It's like I could just scream...

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!

And totally get away with it. 

Man, that felt good.

Okay, back to the Wish Me Luck/Thank You part... So, Wish Me Luck!!

And, now onto to the Thank You... The below is a picture I found of me with some of my awesome high school teammates one year over a trip to Chapel Hill for the state track meet. I think this was the day before the meet.  We were getting ready to pile in the van, and head over to the arch rival of all enemies in Durham and have a light practice at the DOOK track. This was one of the most awesome times ever!!  Such a great group of girls. Might I add, pretty much as a whole, we were faster than lightening. One of my most fond (though quite painful) memories was having my hair done in cornrows in the van on the way to Chapel Hill.  Talk about thinking you were cool!  That was me.

You followin' me?

Here I am in the 10th grade competing in the 1600meters. I'll never forget running on that track. Maybe it was because I was running on the prettiest color in the rainbow, or perhaps because it was the first rubberized track I had ever run on, but it was like running on clouds.

And one more, here I am with Coach Ball, the best track coach ever. Year after year, we generally smoked the competition. Thank you, Coach  Ball, and thank you girls for being some of the most awesome group of supporters I have ever known.  I think about these days with nothing but the fondest of memories.

How awesome are those glasses?

How awesome are my bangs?

Fast-forward to a few other cute, new girls I want to send a quick shout out to. I mentioned how awesome some of these new "friends" are that I have met through blogging. Isn't that crazy?  I don't even really KNOW these girls. But, I feel like I do. After all, I read their thoughts at least three days a week. So, I just wanted to say Thank You for the inspiration to four awesome, fun, unique, hard-working gals I have come to know a little over the last four months. Thank you for the inspiration.

You probably don't know how you've touched me, in some way, shape or form, but you have. And perhaps you know exactly how I feel. Thank you. You are awesome in your own unique way! I look forward to reading what you have to say every day!

To all my readers...

It's almost like an award ceremony here, right?? If you like fashion, home design, amazing style and feel-good-about-yourself writing, meet my new Friends!

Christine at Bijou and Boheme

Anna at Fash Boulevard

Erin at Living In Yellow

Ivana at Macarons and Pearls

And last, but not least, my Awesomer than Awesome Aunt Lee! You are so cool!

I mean, really, how cool is she training on the beach? And, she just started writing her second blog, Outer Banks Style!

Lee at Outer Banks Style

Well, I guess it is time for me to go to bed, put an end this big ole Love Fest, and go make like I'm a sleeping baby. Thanks for being awesome, every single one of ya reading this!

For the love of nothing more stylish than awesome love, xxxxxoooo Whitley

So Glam!

Hello, my most stylish friends! I am without words. I mean, absolutely over the moon, amazed, excited beyond imaginable, jumping for joy, beyond happy, in love...

Well, not totally and completely without words. As you see, the Queen City Style has been Glamified.

OMG. OMG. OMG!!

Corny? Perhaps, but this is how I feel!  The Hills are alive... with the Sound of Music!! So, without further adieu, I shall let the masterpiece do the talking, though I leave with you this one brief mention for now. If you want your website or blog to be as Bad Ass as mine... Kat Mulford of Kat Mulford Design is your girl. (more on this Queen of Style to come).

I would love to hear from you!!

For the love of being Oh So In Love with fabulous style more and more everyday! 

xo-Whitley

PS--There are no words to say how much I appreciate your readership.

Dance the Night Away, Queen City Style (This one's for you, Dad!)

I was raised, unequivocally, on two things:  Music and Dancing.  Both of my parents love to dance and both have GOT the Boogie Woogie, which they've passed on to me.  I'm not saying I am the world's best dancer. I'm just saying that if biology and environment are impact factors, it would be next to impossible for me not to inherit some similar level of passion for the fun.

My Mom and Dad 

My parents divorced when I was 12 years old, and so my weekends often consisted of road trips to the Palmetto State to visit Dad.  More specifically, the Grand Strand, and once more, Georgetown, Pawley's Island and you got it... Myrtle Beach, Baby.  My Dad has been Shag dancing since he was a teenager.  Think...

This meant that most of my weekends with Dad were fairly dance-centered.  So fun.

Since this blog post is about dancing in the Queen City, I'll just show you this one pic of me and my dear 'ole Dad having some fun on the dance floor the night of my wedding.  Thanks, Dad, for the exposure, the continued good times and too many memories to count!

Dad and I recently attended a Shag and Swing class at local dancing hot spot, Thoroughbred Lounge, off of Highway 16 in the northwest pocket of the Queen City.  On any occasion at Thoroughbred Lounge, you can count on some of the best Shag records spinning via some of the area's best beach music DJ's. But on this occasion, two of the best Shag dancers to ever grace the dance floor were teaching the class.  If you haven't already, meet LeAnn Best and Michael Norris.

I have been watching these two for as long as I can remember. Though Michael and LeAnn are now Mr. and Mrs., they weren't always a couple.  They began dancing in competition against once another. Two years later they joined forces on the dance floor, at which time they began sweeping the competition in both the Junior Division and later in the Professional Division. They are also considered Professionals in the world of Swing dancing.  Click HERE to visit their website, and catch a video of Michael and LeAnn dancing which will knock your socks off.

Michael and LeAnn taught smooth moves to both Shag and Swing dancers alike.  

The gals and guys line up to learn their steps...

If this isn't a sign that more men need to put their big boy pants on and hit the dance floor, then I don't know what is.  What IS it?? Do I hear a little Cyndi?... Girls, they wanna have Fuh-un... Come on now, fellas.

It wasn't long before the lights went down, and everyone took to the dance floor...

If you live in the Queen City and want to put on your boogie woogie shoes, you are in luck with a host of Shag clubs across the region.  I most commonly frequent Lynn's in South Charlotte, where the Charlotte Shag Club meets, in addition to Thoroughbred Lounge, home of Boppers Shag Club. Visit both websites to learn more about Beginner and Intermediate lessons, or just show up for the fun.  There really is no better way to learn than through exposure.

To get your Swing Dance fix, contact the Queen City Keeper of the West Coast Swing, Tommy Ballard, at Tommysellsbmw@gmail.com, or via phone at 704-634-3959, or visit the Charlotte West Coast Swing Facebook Fan Page...

Charlotte West Coast Swing on Facebook

For the love dancing the night away in great style... you don't wanna miss out on this fun! Whitley

Fashion Friday PTO

Whew!  I am totally wiped out at the end of this week.  Do any of you ever feel like your days turn into nights and the next thing you know another day has passed before your very eyes in such a whirl-wind fashion that you've seemed to be propelled into light speed orbit up to the galaxy for just a flash and flutter, then it's a full speed fall back down to earth, launching you flat on your back--if you are lucky--in your bed, but sometimes no further than your kitchen floor because let's face it, scrubbing mud from the grout between the tile on your hands and knees while listening to the pleasant shrills of three-year-old end-of-the-world- nearing screams over a juice box can often times be SO much fun that you can't fathom pulling yourself away from it for the notion of crawling your way toward your snuggly wuggly pillow and mattress at an hour that would leave college fratties feeling like they made it just in time for an ABC after school special?  Do you know that feeling?

Well, it is Friday, and the sun will come out tomorrow!

Can't keep this good woman down for too long, but she IS going to grant herself a little Personal Time Out, and in place of your usual Fashion Friday wardrobe styling, I share with you images of Fashionable Duds I deem Oh-So-Fabulous.  I hope you enjoy!

Chanel Byzantine Look PreFall 2011

Alll Red and Fabulous in Diane von Furstenberg 

Vintage Valentino. What I would do to wear either of these.

Are any of you already longing warmer temps?

With a suit like this, how can you not?

Sexy, Fabulous Casual via here.

Gaaaa... Missoni!

How am I doing?

One day this WILL be me.

... And why not?  My Grandmother did it. She is first on left with some of her most stylish gal pals.

In the meantime, I'll strive for this level of fabulous.

Don't you love this totally achievable daytime look?

Does Nude and Rust look any better than this?

And, of course, if you love sequins like I do...

It is my hope that this will leave you longing for the next Fashion Friday!

For those of you equally obsessed Pinterest-loving fiends, see more of what I'm drooling over during grout-scrubbing breaks.  Just click on the below link...

For the love of fabulous fashion; I hope you have a weekend full of marvelous fun and excitement, or if your pleasure, like me, is one filled with some good old fashioned R&R... For you, I wish nothing more.  xx Whitley

Stylin' Sunday - Golden Globes Top Picks and a BIG Thank You to Most Wonderful Man in the World

Happy Sunday!  I hope you all enjoyed yourself this weekend.  I sure have, and I will tell you why... Most Wonderful Man in the World decided last weekend that he would surprise me this weekend ...

... by taking himself and my other two precious little men on a road trip to visit their Grandparents, which... you got it... left me and the Booch, (our precious lab, Macy) HOME ALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL ALONE! FOR THE ENTIRE WEEKEND.  If your day to day life looks anything similar to mine, you know why I have used all caps.  There is no exact way to express the emotion involved for a weekend all alone.  Most wonderful man encouraged me to meet up with some girlfriends for a drink, and I wanted to, but I just could not.  Silence. Sitting at home all ALONE, all weekend, working on this blog... while listening to the soft, melodic rhythms of Chicane, Bent, Thievery Corporation and the likes... is all I wanted to do.  The wine has never tasted so good.  

Thank you most wonderful man in the world... I guess that 10 day fishing trip is my way to repay you for such kindness?  Yes. Gladly.  THANK YOU.

Back to the GG's...

It was a lovely night.  Your Queen City Stylist, Frank, and I had a hard time picking just one for Best of the Night, so we each picked our Top Two.

My picks, Evan Rachel Wood and Julie Bowen.  For me, it was all about the dresses.  While I think both ladies could have done a little more accessorizing, I just die over both of dresses. Evan's dress was unbelievable with all the different textures, the pattern and structure, and Julie was reminiscent of Old Hollywood Glamour, so graceful and classic.

Frank's Picks, Claire Danes and Charlize Theron.  Frank loved the design of both dresses, noting the classic design of Claire's dress, the color blocking, as well as the flawless fit on her. He pointed to the high slit and gathered waist of Charlize's dress, as well as the color of the dress being a match for her skin tone, and the headband being a fabulous addition.

So, did either Frank or I choose your pick for best of the night?  I would love to know your top picks!

For the love of admiring beautiful dresses from afar in total peace and quite on this chilly, rainy weekend in the Queen City... I hope yours was every bit as lovely as mine!  Whitley

Stylin' Sunday - Black and White

Hi everyone!  I hope you enjoyed my mad rush black and white ensemble earlier this week.  This fast job was a lot of fun!  So, here's how it all came together...

I spanned my closet for black and white elements. I saw a few of the other interpretations HERE and the first thing in my head was "it has to be unique".  This means no black pants, no white shirts.  Not that I don't love classic, timeless staples, this just has to be different.  This had me springing for the front hall closet to inspect my wardrobe overflow, mostly summer pieces but also some non-everyday dress-up garments.  I found a white skirt suit I wore to my first son's Baptism... pretty, but not "the one".  Then, I spotted this dress which belonged to my Grandmother...

Front

Back

I've always loved this dress.  I wore it has as my "bridal trousseau" the evening of our wedding.

Since this dress is vintage, I'm thinking I won't be able to find an exact replica for you, but here are some unique flowy fabulous options that I do love.  Click on the link below the image to shop the look.

I love how flowy and soft these next two are...

Totally unique, strong and sexy all in one...

Day Dresses by Kimberly Ovitz

This is a Target steal at $27.99.  In the below image it looks plain and simple, yes, but visit the website to see the dress on a model which will give you a much better visual aid.  The dress is fabulous and SO versatile!

Another excellent price...

Dresses by Three Dots

Styling of the dress came to me immediately.  Black opaque tights, black pumps, black trench, Channey love, vintage bracelet belonging to my Great-Grandmother.

Here are the pieces coming together...

Black Trench from Banana Republic.  The construction of this coat is PERFECT.  Several years ago my mother and I were shopping over at South Park and spotted this.  She generously gifted it to me for Christmas later that year, and it has become my all around classic, go-with-anything dress coat.

Black Cole Haan Pumps from Recycle Boutique over at my home away from home, Park Road Shopping Center.

Truth be told, these shoes are a half size too big, but I could not say no.  They are the kind with the Nike Air stuff in them, which means uber comfy and that much more stylish at a nice price.  If you haven't been to Recycle Boutique, they have fabulous finds for not only your wardrobe but also for your home.

My Channey Love.  Read about her HERE...

Favorite Vintage Bracelet that I wear all the time...

Then, searching.....hmmm... for something different.  Something chic.  A look I have been wanting to style for a long time.  So long I haven't sported it since riding passenger in my Dad's former beloved 1979 Silver Volkswagon Bug Convertible, "The Volks".

Oh, those were the days.  Riding top down passenger, or perhaps in the far back, perched on top of the roof folded down. And always styling a red handkerchief around my head.  Dad kept a blue and red one in the side pocket of the door, so his passenger's hair would only faintly, ever so stylishly, be blowing in the wind. Here is my modern day attempt.  Regardless of the outcome, unmistakably, I felt totally chic.

As you can see, I reached for my classic Burberry scarf, certainly a favorite.  Next, for an instant pop of color, I grabbed this bright red sash which belonged to my Grandmother, which I wear quite often.  It's sort of a signature staple for me... something to amp up the look of a garment that would otherwise be, simply off the rack.

I like to cinch it around my waist as a sash...

Where else than Summerall Chapel at The Citadel for a lovely spring wedding?

I have wrapped it around my hair like a wide head band/scarf, and often times I just tie it on something for the extra pop of color.

Scarves are so multi-functional and fun.

Lastly, for the jewelry, I knew I wanted more prominent earrings.  I love the look of large hoops, which Jennifer Lopez so stylishly often times sports with her head scarves.

My large gold hoops are very thin, and since the dress is so simple and without a pattern, I wanted something that would be a little more eye-catching.  I love these black and gold statement-makers from the Queen City's own super savvy consignment boutique, J.T. Posh.  While more prominently known for their fabulous consigned couture, did you know J.T. Posh also carries a wide selection of knew VERY affordable jewels and accessories?  I think I scored these dazzling darlings for $18.

Since I'm all dressed up really with nowhere to go, I might as well make myself a cocktail and enjoy the moment.

For the love of wardrobe styling in classic black and white, xx-Whitley

So you say you want to be happy? Well, read on...

I follow a blog, Habitually Chic, written by New York based designer Heather Clawson.  Last week, she posted an article on achieving happiness, which I found to be particularly insightful.  

As 2011 was coming to a close, I turned to most wonderful man in the world (my husband) one night in the kitchen and reflected, "I think for first time ever I feel like this has been a really tough year".   Oh sure, I can put my finger right on the times that were more of a struggle for me, but I try to keep the focus on my blessings.  As most wonderful man in the world once told me, "Honey, everyone has issues".  His words always resonate with me.  It is very humbling to know that I am not the ONLY one with those things, "Issues".  Yippee!  I'm normal after all!

Well, maybe.

I have entered 2012 feeling so positive.  I see nothing but bright, sunny days on the horizon.  Life is going to give us challenges on a regular basis.  I see those challenges as opportunities to grow into a more whole, experienced and courageous being.  Having this view point is one thing, but living out your full potential on a daily basis requires focus, maintenance and perseverance.  In 2012, I resolve to maintain focus only on my gifts and to persevere through life's opportunities which set the path toward my goals.   

Oh Pawley's Island, you are serenity to all.

On my desk in front of me now is a list of goals, one of which is to make and hang an inspiration board so that I will be able to more clearly tackle the superfluous number of projects and goals I have set for myself.  Perhaps I need to set a goal to set fewer goals!?... Nah, I've got a lifetime to accomplish them all, but I do need to get moving on that inspiration board!  Front and center on it, I'll be pinning the article.  Happy reading!

One of my gazillion tear sheets.

I love this inspiration board featured in House Beautiful.

For the love of living a life full of great style and happiness, I wish you a very Happy 2012!  With gratitude for your readership, Whitley

12 Things Happy People Do Differently

Studies conducted by positivity psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky point to 12 things happy people do differently to increase their levels of happiness.  These are things that we can start doing today to feel the effects of more happiness in our lives.  (Check out her book

The How of Happiness

1. Express gratitude.

– When you appreciate what you have, what you have appreciates in value.  Kinda cool right?  So basically, being grateful for the goodness that is already evident in your life will bring you a deeper sense of happiness.  And that’s without having to go out and buy anything.  It makes sense.  We’re gonna have a hard time ever being happy if we aren’t thankful for what we already have.

2. Cultivate optimism.

– Winners have the ability to manufacture their own optimism.  No matter what the situation, the successful diva is the chick who will always find a way to put an optimistic spin on it.  She knows failure only as an opportunity to grow and learn a new lesson from life.  People who think optimistically see the world as a place packed with endless opportunities, especially in trying times.

3. Avoid over-thinking and social comparison.

– Comparing yourself to someone else can be poisonous.  If we’re somehow ‘better’ than the person that we’re comparing ourselves to, it gives us an unhealthy sense of

superiority.  Our ego inflates – KABOOM – our inner Kanye West comes out!  If we’re ‘worse’ than the person that we’re comparing ourselves to, we usually discredit the hard work that we’ve done and dismiss all the progress that we’ve made.  What I’ve found is that the majority of the time this type of social comparison doesn’t stem from a healthy place.  If you feel called to compare yourself to something, compare yourself to an earlier version of yourself.

4. Practice acts of kindness.

– Performing an act of kindness releases serotonin in your brain.  (Serotonin is a substance that has TREMENDOUS health benefits, including making us feel more blissful.)  Selflessly helping someone is a super powerful way to feel good inside.  What’s even cooler about this kindness kick is that not only will you feel better, but so will people watching the act of kindness.  How extraordinary is that?  Bystanders will be blessed with a release of serotonin just by watching what’s going on.  A side note is that the job of most anti-depressants is to release more serotonin.  Move over Pfizer, kindness is kicking ass and taking names.

5. Nurture social relationships.

– The happiest people on the planet are the ones who have deep, meaningful relationships.  Did you know studies show that people’s mortality rates are DOUBLED when they’re lonely?  WHOA!  There’s a warm fuzzy feeling that comes from having an active circle of good friends who you can share your experiences with.  We feel connected and a part of something more meaningful than our lonesome existence.

6. Develop strategies for coping.

– How you respond to the ‘craptastic’ moments is what shapes your character.  Sometimes crap happens – it’s inevitable.  Forrest Gump knows the deal.  It can be hard to come up with creative solutions in the moment when manure is making its way up toward the fan.  It helps to have healthy strategies for coping pre-rehearsed, on-call, and in your arsenal at your disposal.

7. Learn to forgive.

– Harboring feelings of hatred is horrible for your well-being.  You see, your mind doesn’t know the difference between past and present emotion.  When you ‘hate’ someone, and you’re continuously thinking about it, those negative emotions are eating away at your immune system.  You put yourself in a state of suckerism (technical term) and it stays with you throughout your day.

8. Increase flow experiences.

– Flow is a state in which it feels like time stands still.  It’s when you’re so focused on what you’re doing that you become one with the task.  Action and awareness are merged.  You’re not hungry, sleepy, or emotional.  You’re just completely engaged in the activity that you’re doing.  Nothing is distracting you or competing for your focus.

9. Savor life’s joys.

– Deep happiness cannot exist without slowing down to enjoy the joy.  It’s easy in a world of wild stimuli and omnipresent movement to forget to embrace life’s enjoyable experiences.  When we neglect to appreciate, we rob the moment of its magic.  It’s the simple things in life that can be the most rewarding if we remember to fully experience them.

10. Commit to your goals.

– Being wholeheartedly dedicated to doing something comes fully-equipped with an ineffable force.  Magical things start happening when we commit ourselves to doing whatever it takes to get somewhere.  When you’re fully committed to doing something, you have no choice but to do that thing.  Counter-intuitively, having no option – where you can’t change your mind – subconsciously makes humans happier because they know part of their purpose.

11. Practice spirituality.

– When we practice spirituality or religion, we recognize that life is bigger than us.  We surrender the silly idea that we are the mightiest thing ever.  It enables us to connect to the source of all creation and embrace a connectedness with everything that exists.  Some of the most accomplished people I know feel that they’re here doing work they’re “called to do.”

12. Take care of your body.

– Taking care of your body is crucial to being the happiest person you can be.  If you don’t have your physical energy in good shape, then your mental energy (your focus), your emotional energy (your feelings), and your spiritual energy (your purpose) will all be negatively affected.  Did you know that studies conducted on people who were clinically depressed showed that consistent exercise raises happiness levels just as much as Zoloft?  Not only that, but here’s the double whammy… Six months later, the people who participated in exercise were less likely to relapse because they had a higher sense of self-accomplishment and self-worth.

A Merry, Merry Feast!

Happy Day after Christmas Everyone!  I hope yours was wonderful.  Mine was.  It is such a busy day for everyone, and such a whirlwind. All of the preparation... it all happens so fast, and the day comes to a close, it seems, before you can say "Merry Christmas!"  Being with friends and family is a treasure.  Life is so dear.  Through the tough times, and every single one of us faces them in our own fashion, we all have so many blessings for which to be grateful.  I am so grateful for all of mine.

Did I just go all Barbara Walters on you or what?

All that mushy stuff aside, I am abso-freaking-lutely exhausted.  It is all self-induced, so I got no one to blame but myself, but I'm not even blaming myself, because I do love this kind of self-infliction.

Me, Self-Inflicting

Did anyone say  "Do you like to entertain?"  Does it get dark at night??  And, when it comes to this stuff, I ain't missing a single stone.  Yes ma'am, they are ALL right-side up. I know there are plenty of you out there who are just as nutso as me.  But in all seriousness, I do love to entertain, and I love to cook.  And, I looove to set a beautiful table, and what better time than Christmas to do it?  So, here's my table on Christmas Eve.

It's funny.  We have a perfectly suitable dining room, yet I still prefer to just put a leaf in the kitchen table.  We cooks know everyone always ends up in the kitchen no matter how hard we try to keep them OUT of the kitchen.  I suppose of all rooms, it most feels like home, and I am happy to oblige family and friends for just being with us.

I set a table using a variety of bright green dishes and chargers by VIETRI in pattern Foglia.  The founders and owners of this company, sisters Susan and Frances Gravely, and mother Lee Gravely, are long time family friends of my mother's family. I've always loved the rich colors and textures of VIETRI tableware.  I own several pieces in another VIETRI pattern, but I chose this one specifically with Christmas in mind.  I love the brightness of the green and the textured edges of each piece.

Cranberry Fruit Conserve and Maple-Orange Mashed Sweet Potatoes

I use my everyday plates which are a simple, easy to go with anything, cream china by Williams-Sonoma.  Click here to see them.  For the pop of red, I accessorize with deep cranberry red linens, also from Williams-Sonoma, and throw in the touch of holiday sparkle using gold leaf napkin rings from Pottery Barn.

Fond D'Artichauts Aux Champignons

I love my Edward Wine & Water Glasses, also by Williams-Sonoma.  Click here to see.  Come to think of it, all of the pieces are wedding gifts in VIETRI, Williams-Sonoma or Pottery Barn, all of which you can get right here in the Queen City.  Belk carries an array of VIETRI patterns.  Click here to search Belk.  I feel like current day society is a lot less formal on a day to day basis, so I registered for more casual pieces.  However, I do enjoy hosting a shower or party for someone, in which case I just borrow all the dressier china, glassware and silver from my mom.

Sesame Ginger Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Warm Cider Vinaigrette

What do you think?  For you cooking enthusiasts, below is the dinner menu with links to the recipes, or a description.

• Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Warm Cider Vinaigrette
• Maple-Orange Mashed Sweet Potatoes
• Fresh Cranberry Fruit Conserve
• Marinated Sesame Ginger Pork Tenderloin stuck with fresh ginger and garlic cloves.  Most wonderful man in the world is in charge of any dish that involves meat, since I only eat it in the way of fish.  Basically, he grills the pork first on high heat to char the outside just a bit, then turns down the heat to low-medium, and continues to grill for about 20 minutes.  Easy, inexpensive and delish!
• Fond D'Artichauts Aux Champignons.  Fancy name, huh?  This is a casserole dish of artichoke bottoms smothered with marinated mushrooms, light cream and fresh grated parmesan cheese.  I make this a lot, because it is so delicious and SO easy.  Fresh lemon juice.  Two cans artichoke bottoms, 2 lbs sliced mushrooms, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 cup light cream (I use fat free half and half), LOTS of fresh grated parmesan cheese.  Sprinkle shrooms with lemon juice. Heat butter and saute shrooms for few minutes.  Arrange artichoke bottoms in buttered dish.  Pour shrooms over and sprinkle with cheese.  Put under moderate broiler and heat until cheese melts.  Serves 8.

Here are a few more images of some festive table settings.

This next one is by the very talented Eddie Ross.  There is nothing he does that I don't absolutely love.

Click here to see more images from this table setting.

And last, but certainly not least, I had to share with you a couple images of my friend Heather's table from her Christmas party this year.  When it comes to parties, the girl does NOT hold back on her table setting!

Did you serve for your holiday meal anything of which you are exceptionally proud?  I would love for you to share with me some of your favorite holiday recipes, and I would REALLY love to see your holiday table!

For the love of entertaining in the most fabulous holiday style, Whitley

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

Well, Christmas is just one week away as of today!!  Merry, Merry everyone! I wanted to share with you some beautiful and unique Christmas trees in Charlotte, as well as a few iconic trees beyond the Queen City.  Naturally, I will start with one of my very own.  Actually, my mother's.  I would be remiss if I did not share the tree I grew up with each year.  It is the only tree I have ever known with all red lights.  One thing I love most is that I've never seen another of its kind, but regardless, I think it is so magical and pretty.

A peak from the street.

It's like fire!

My husband grew up with white lights, so we compromised on a tree with lights of red and white.  Admittedly I was a little sad we would not have an all red tree.  However, I quickly grew to love our own unique "Candy Cane" tree!  When my friend Lauren told me the new Food Lion on Park Road was selling trees for $29.99, we were there in a skinny minute!  Skinny?  All of the trees were just that.  Hank pointed out immediately the one he wanted, so we strapped it on the top of our car and head for home.  If our tree was a gawky lad, our excuse was Hank.  Ha!  No, never... that sweet baby.  Besides, what could be more stylish than saving money during the holidays?!

We'll call him Super Skinny...

Just like this beastly man!

The sweetest little helper on the planet.

Fits PERFECTLY in the corner since I've recently rearranged the living room floor plan.

Our Candy Cane tree of red and white lights. It's perfect!  Way to go Hanky!

Disco ball has got his eyes on a few bright and shiny's there on the tree.

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been a NYC Christmas Tradition since 1931.  Who doesn't love the city at Christmas time?  Just thinking about it makes me want to go there now!

The White House Christmas tree, also known as the Blue Room Christmas Tree is the official indoor Christmas tree at the White House.  The first indoor tree was installed someone in the 19th century and since 1961, the tree has had a themed motif, at the discretion of the First Lady.  The tree, which is selected from various growers nationwide, has been provided by growers in North Carolina 11 times, more than any other state.

  Go one which ya bad self Tar Heel tree growers!

White House Christmas tree arriving via horse drawn carriage.

Blue Room Christmas Tree.

I have always been mesmerized by the magic of Biltmore at Christmas time.  All of the decorations are so lovely and amazing.  It is hard to find proper words to describe the towering trees at Biltmore House.  The scale of everything is so grand.  Since George Vanderbilt moved into Biltmore House in 1895, the Banquet Hall has served as the focal point for Christmas celebrations at Biltmore House.  If you haven't been, it is a real treat for the entire family, and it is just a two hour drive from Charlotte.  Click here for information on visiting Biltmore House at Christmas through January 1.

Biltmore House at night.

The Banquet Hall at Biltmore House.

And just a few more I think are pretty...

In an otherwise lovely traditional  interior, this tree throws in a little glam with aqua and metallic matched to the decor.

It seems that turquoise is a hot color for Christmas trees right now.  What's not to love?  I particularly love the way bows are wrapped around this tree, and check out those super fun feathers on the top. I spotted this tree on the ultra cute and hot for turquoise blog, House of Turquoise. I think the tree should never leave the room, it's so pretty.

Ironically enough, the next image was a lovely bar cart stocked with tasty looking little holiday cocktails.  Um... yes please!

And check out the pheasant feathers on this beaut.  Isn't this SO creative?

So Stylish and Original

My mother informed me that my Great Grandparents also had a totally unique Christmas tree, one completely smathered with white Ivory flakes, creating the look of a lush powdery snow.  Here's a totally gorg all white tree belonging to local Charlotte designer Holly Phillips of The English Room.  I want this NOW!  

Of course, I had to Google Ivory Snow Flake Christmas tree, and HERE is what I found.  This Blogger was also compelled to try it for herself.  Isn't it lovely?  Click on the link to see the step by step guide to making a "Glowy and Snowy Flocked Tree". So Heavenly...

And to top it all off...

A little bit of modern glam using an urn as the base and a disco ball hanging  from the ceiling in lieu of a traditional tree topper.  Love this!

As if a disco ball could be any more fun and festive than it already is!  I think I'll have to do this with mine!

Here's a beautiful bow used for a tree topper custom made by Black Lion here in the Queen City.

Last, but not least, I thought I'd share with you a gift that keeps on giving!  Here's one way to put those empty wine bottles to good use.  Maybe I'll start saving all of those bottles of wine given as gifts and one day have my very own wine bottle tree.  I mean, in all seriousness, how pretty is this tree?!...

I'm ready for Christmas.  Are you?

For the love of fabulous holiday style, Whitley

Guest Room to Baby/Guest Room Transformation, Part II

Hi there!  With both boys we decided to not find out the gender prior to delivery.  As I mentioned in the last post, I just completed the guest room when I shortly thereafter learned I was pregnant with baby #2.  I was so proud of the way that room looked.  I found the perfect peach/pink blend for the walls, queen anne pink by Benjamin Moore.  I knew that we would wait again to find out the gender of baby #2, so I decided I would just leave the color on the walls.  The crib we used for our first son was a hand-me-down on its fourth use, and he destroyed it, so we couldn't even donate it to Goodwill.  I was basically starting from scratch.  I did, however, have this wonderful black and white check rocker passed down from my cousin that would become the grounding piece for the room...Voila!  If it were a girl, it would be pink and black and white... my little Chanel room!!  So, I put the black and white check rocker in the room, moved the furniture for baby into the room, and perfection.  I absolutely loved it.

Room fit for a little princess.

Hank ready for his new baby sister.

Everyone seemed to think we were having a girl for whatever reason, and so I think I too was convinced of it.  If baby was a boy, however, I had no game plan.  

As a side note, I need to mention that our house is three bedroom, so this meant we basically would be losing our guest room.  Once you have children, I feel like there is a direct correlation to the number of overnight guests you host in your home.  I did, however, want to at least be able to offer a bed for my in-laws or any other surprise visitors that needed a comfortable place to rest their head.   

Fast forward to delivery day... Out popped baby #2, and in this order my husband exclaimed "It's a Boy!" and "I'm Not Painting!" And thus for four months, our sweet baby William Hollingsworth "Worth" slept soundly in his soothing pink room.  It was back to the drawing board on a new baby room.  I knew I wanted fun, punchy bright colors. I was still working around the black and white check rocker. I have always admired the way the hue of turquoise and red complemented each other, and I felt like they would do well with the black and white.  So, Voila again, my new color palette!  I hopped over to my home away from home for paint and everything else fabulous, Black Hawk Hardware, to make my paint selection.  Then magic happened.  One week this summer I took the boys to visit their Grandparents and that sweet most wonderful man in the world painted the room!!  Below is the picture and caption he sent to me...

Smurf Blue!

Whoa!  That is some SERIOUS Smurf Blue.  I was nervous to see it in person, but then when I saw it in natural daylight, I was completely happy with the was it looked.  As you can see in the above picture, I had already picked out some accent fabric in red and white.  After my dear friend Anna purchased a matching red quilt and pillow shams for her two boys from Target, I realized it would bit a nice fit for this room.  So, I trotted myself on over to Midtown Target, and purchased a set for baby Worth.  Perfect!  Below are some shots of the final outcome.  I love it.  As a side note, I read somewhere that black and red and white are the first color a baby is able to see, so I thought this is double winner :)  I wonder what baby Worth thinks?

A room fit for a King!

I love the sweet little table by the door.

Fabric covered letters to match lumbar pillow on bed.

Painted night stand to hold books, cd's and a couple favorite pics.

Every southern gentleman's room needs a touch of monogram.

Homemade ribbon frames for pics of  baby boo.

Sweet baby Worth

I hope you enjoyed this post. Next time I will share with you a little bit more about the accessories, fabrics, etc and how they all came together to create the final look.

For the love of living in style, Whitley

So excited to be here!

Hello Everyone!  I am so excited to be writing my first post on this blog.  Almost eight months ago, I welcomed my second baby boy into the world.  Prior to his birth, I operated a nanny placement service that I have owned for eight years.  While I loved my work, I made the leap to stay at home full time with my boys.  It was a tough decision for me, and I wasn't sure the stay-at-home/full time mom roll was going to be a fit for me, but I have had the MOST fun ever in these last months!  Since being home, I have poured what energy I have remaining at the end of each day into all things creative.  With fashion being my first love of creative expression, I submitted a story about my Grandmother and Great Grandmother to Lucky magazine for their back page based on a blog titled My Mom the Style Icon, created by one one hip chick, Piper Weiss.  Each month, I read this story and thought to myself how much Nana or Willa needed to be in this magazine.

For me, the creativity part isn't the struggle, it's the implementation phase. Since I wouldn't be answering to anyone other than yours truly for this "try out" of sorts, I thought "What do I have to lose?!"  So, I picked my photo, sent Lucky the information for my story, and voila... I heard back from them!  Communication exchanges transpired over the course of several weeks, via email, then phone and one last email to fact check.  I only told a few close people about my hopes of this story actually getting published.  I would believe it when I saw it in print.

Well, over this past weekend I received a message from a friend saying how excited she was to open her Lucky Magazine to read my story about my Grandmother.  I could not believe it!!!  In the car already, my sweet husband quickly changed our route to the nearest grocery story.  The aisles were wide, and I was movin'!  My half marathon training pace was put to use, full speed ahead through the doors of the Ingles supermarket.  I swished my way through the check out registers, raced through the frozen food section,  turned a sharp left, and then a right to the magazine aisle.  And, there it was... the December issue of Lucky.  Jessica Simpson beaming at me from the cover.  I wasn't exactly looking for myself, but I knew this must be the issue!  I quickly turned to the back page, and there it was. OH MY GOSH!  I can't believe it!?  I pulled a reverse race back to the check out line, out the front doors of the store and to the car to my husband, waving the magazine above my head in the air.  I was, and still am so excited.

This article has been a source of great validation for me.  I must pursue what I love, and that is All Things Stylish. For months, I have contemplated creating a blog dedicated to fashion in the Queen City.  Then it hit me, as yesterday's morning alarm was sounding loud, I'll write a blog about ALL things stylish in the Queen City.  So here it is.  I'll be talking about fashion, home design, entertaining, stylish places to eat, shop, explore, be quiet, pray, learn, share and more.  I may never make a dime writing this little blog, but that is no problem for me!  I am so excited to be embarking on this new project, and I hope you will enjoy it so.

I decided for my first little project, I would create an ensemble inspired by the one my Grandmother is seen wearing in the photo.  I look forward to sharing with you my attempt at reincarnating her fabulous look.  And you got it, everything you see can be purchased right here in the Queen City.  I can't wait to share with you more stylish things that I love about this city, and I would LOVE to hear from you on anything and everything.  Please share some inspiration with me!

For the love of great style, dahling...

Whitley