Local Notes: SoHo NYC

July 9, 2014

When I was in NYC for The Brand Market, I got in town a little early on Friday and was able to spend the afternoon with Brynn Elliott Watkins, Sara Kerens, and my friend Marisol. I wanted to just enjoy the unusually perfect weather and pop in and out of spots that looked inviting. When else would I have the opportunity to spend an afternoon in NYC, with absolutely nothing to do but explore? So here’s where we landed…

We walked into Clic Gallery and were immediately sucked into the giant art prints and photos on the gallery wall. This place was filled with work from varying artists from across the U.S., and I even recognized the work of my friend Courtney Hamill of Honeycomb studio. Remember her? I concluded I probably couldn’t fit my Laurie Victor Kay artwork in my suitcase home so I snatched a postcard instead:)

In an attempt to find an available lunch spot we ran into La Esquina which happens to be one of the best taco spots in NYC (and after tasting, I wholeheartedly agree). It looked like an airstream with minimal space inside and a constant stream of people waiting in line to get a hold of a taco made for the mexican food lover’s dream. There is a nicer sit down portion to the restaurant right next door, and from what I hear the basement is even grander. Worth a peek if not a taste!

We did a little shopping in Topshop and ended at Little Fox Cafe coffee spot for iced mochas. What I really love about NYC is the different styles and stories from people’s lives that merge into it’s own culture. The sweetest barista let Sara take photos of her serving customers. I loved her style!

Had such a good time with these gals. You have got to check out their sites! You will be overwhelmed by their talent! Maria de los Soles (a long time friend who started Beauty Found) Brynn Ellitott (Being Elliott) and Sara Kerens (fashion photographer who took all of these photos! Sara Kerens Photography)

Can’t wait to get back to this city someday soon. I am taking note to visit in May when the weather is much kinder than February;)

Wearing: Romper: Love Sadie (on sale!) // Sandals: Just Fab // Hat: Shop Sosie c/o // Bag: Wink & Winn c/o

The Perfect Nude Pump

July 8, 2014

Wearing: Dress: J.Crew (on super sale) // Clutch: BaliELF c/o // Sunnies: Old Navy // Necklace: Roe BLVD // Pumps: ShoeMint c/o

As you can tell I am over the posey pics, so we played around with movement and shadows this go around. The shoes made me do it you know….

I have a tendency to avoid looks that are too matchy-matchy so throwing in a nude pump with some bold electric blue is my way of throwing off the expected. It’s tough to find a good nude pump though, I tell ya what! I searched high and wide. So when ShoeMint offered to team up again, I said sure…… as long as you throw me a nude pump that can kick the tires and light the fires! (Wink wink.)

As you can see, these do the trick and they really do kick it too the curb on all fronts! Comfortable believe it or not, not too round, not too pointy, and that perfect hue of blush nude. I can even do my squat jumps and not topple over so we are winning. A few other fab things you should know about ShoeMint in case you aren’t familiar: Free shipping both ways (tops my list!), refined materials such as leather and suede at an affordable price point, AND new styles are added monthly which makes it fun to re-visit. Whenever I login I see what shoes are geared towards my style profile, and always I nod my head and say “mmmmhmmm….you got that right.” On par every time!

UPDATE: Giveaway closed.

This post is sponsored by ShoeMint. It is 100% my own opinion. Thank you for supporting the companies that make this blog possible!

Outtake Reel: Fourth of July

July 7, 2014

4th of July is a huge celebration in my extended family, but since we are traveling next week, we stayed put and enjoyed the long weekend with some friends. Fireworks, steam engine parade, pool time, s’more making…..you get the idea. I am taking some much needed time off in July for the most part. No big events, workshops, or even big blog projects (I have some content already done that I will be sharing:))! For the first time in a looooong time, I had no big deadline looming over my head and was able to spend a solid four days with my sweet family with no interruptions. I even baked a pie friends. It was grand.

I think as a blogger there is a pressure we can put on ourselves to only post perfect photos. I value good photography and keeping strong visuals, but when it comes to my family, some of the best photos that capture the moment are in my outtake real. so I thought it would be appropriate to show you a bunch of outtake (and a few that made the instagram cut;)) snaps from my iphone that are actually some of my very favorite. Happy Monday. I know it might be a groggy one, so enjoy this.

Nena & Co. + Giveaway

July 2, 2014

When I was in L.A., I had a little time to meet up with some friends I have kept in touch with for a while through the blog world and finally got to connect with in real life! Ali of Nena & Co. was one of them. She is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful gals I have ever met, and she had a heart of gold to match! I loved getting to chat with her about all the behind the scenes ins and outs of our crazy entrepreneur lives.

And I believe I am not the only one who goes a little nutty for everything in her shop. We wanted to team up again to give one you all a new Day Bag II (it’s dreamy!) AND a pair of Corte Leather Loafers! To enter, head on over to instagram! Good luck friends!

Love, Anna (and Ali!)

Wearing: Tee: J.Crew (on clearance!) // Denim: Free People // Shoes: Shop Dress Up // Sunnies: H&M (similar)

The Brand Market: Chicago here we come!

July 1, 2014

This rad photo of Carly by Eslee

Hey Chicago entrepreneurs,
I can’t wait to see your beautiful city again and tackle business talk with you!
The Brand Market is heading your way and for the first time, we will have break out sessions with the coolest bunch of super savvy men and women who are ready to help you take your brand to the next level! Mandy Kellogg Rye will be my main co-host with three other group session leaders that will target specific topics you will be able to choose from. Whether you are a blogger, shop owner, photographer, florist, brick and mortar shop, or just beginning to dream your idea, this workshop is designed for you! And you can write it off as a tax deduction for business learning and development!

The workshop will be held at the breathtaking Palm Court at Loyola University. Ticket sales are now live and there are only 20 spots, so snag one here.
Can’t wait to meet you!
*Anna

P.S. D.C. you are next! Mark your calendar – September 20th!

Short Stack Reading .01

June 30, 2014

{Three ways to style Printed Shorts this week for eHow}

I have been making a point to take time to read more. It is something I have always loved, but feel the need to do more of it now to keep my mind sharp (which seems to drastically shrink after having kids…). I want to be aware of the different current events in the world, open my eyes to different cultures, and learn about different topics….

A short stack reading list:
Worth pondering: In Search of Meaning

A must read for bloggers: this article by Grace Bonney on Racked.

A book I read in one flight, that I couldn’t put down. (We are reading this for sister book club:))

Watched and learned about the You Are Beautiful project and promptly booked Matthew Hoffman to be a speaker at our Chicago Brand Market workshop.

A magazine I am hooked on and newly subscribed to.

6 secrets to being a happy mother – I couldn’t agree more.

And in good humor, if you are familiar with Ann Coultor’s opinion on soccer and the World Cup, you will appreciate this brilliant article.

I won’t overwhelm you, so we will keep it at that for now! Have a great start to your week!
*Anna

Maximilian Francis: 1 Year + Giveaway

June 29, 2014

{Max’s little shortalls from Ladida Kids}

One year ago, Max arrived in the early hours of the morning, right after our anniversary dinner. It has been by far the fastest year of my life to date, and it is kind of hard for me to accept that his baby days are slipping through my fingers. He has been my dream baby. Chubby rolls, smiles often, and a sweet laid back nature.

He is into everything right now, and prefers to explore every place he is not supposed to be….the toilet, the fireplace, the stairs…he takes a sneaky silent approach. As most babies of the family can do, Max generates so much joy in our family. He has been the greatest surprise in my life thus far, and I am so glad God decided to send him our way.

To celebrate his little life, we wanted to give some of his favorite things to one of you! Earth’s Best was so kind to offer a whole slew of goodies to send your way including: SPF 30 Mineral Suncscreen, Cold Vapor Rub, Bubble bath, Baby toothbrush + toothpase, Gluten free baby cereal, Organic snack packs, Organic granola bars, Organic baby food puree squeezables, and more. Enter easily below:)

Max also wants to share some of his favorite shoes! We teamed up with Freshly Picked and giving aways some moccs on our facebook page. Thank you all for being such a wonderful crew and support of our family. We love you!

P.S. Max’s Birth Story, and First week of Life

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