Archive

November 2016

Browsing

DALLAS NATURAL LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER, DALLAS FINE ART, FINE ART, HOWELL FAMILY FARMS, FORT WORTH NATURAL LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER, FORT WORTH FINE ART, DALLAS BACHELORETTE PARTY, FORT WORTH BACHELORETTE PARTY, SOUTHERN WEDDING, WEDDING INSPO, BACHELORETTE PARTY, TEXAS PARTY, TABLESCAPE, STYLED SHOOT, BRIDESMAIDS, PARTY, RACHEL ELAINE PHOTOGRAPHY, GOLD DUST

Happy Wedding Wednesday! It’s been a while since we’ve had a wedding post around here, but we are back in full swing with one of every future bride’s favorite part of the engagement season -the bachelorette party!

Even if you’re not currently planning a bachelorette party, this styled shoot I did with Gold Dust Vintage, will have you dropping hints to all your gal’s boyfriends to put a ring on it so you too can throw this chic bachelorette slumber party!

DALLAS NATURAL LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER, DALLAS FINE ART, FINE ART, HOWELL FAMILY FARMS, FORT WORTH NATURAL LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER, FORT WORTH FINE ART, DALLAS BACHELORETTE PARTY, FORT WORTH BACHELORETTE PARTY, SOUTHERN WEDDING, WEDDING INSPO, BACHELORETTE PARTY, TEXAS PARTY, TABLESCAPE, STYLED SHOOT, BRIDESMAIDS, PARTY, RACHEL ELAINE PHOTOGRAPHY, GOLD DUST

A feminine palette of gold, black and white with pops of red was just what this party needed to create a trendy and swanky vibe – and that it was! This girls night was nothing short of modern and stylish! Don’t believe us? Take a look for yourself and get inspired!

the-everyday-hostess-christmas
Cyber Monday is my favorite day to knock out all my Christmas shopping! Cheapest day of the year + no malls or lines?! Count me in! Below is a list of our favorite Cyber Monday deals and promo codes!
 
ALLEN EDMONDS | Save up to 50% on select styles
AMAZON | Cyber Monday deals up to 77% off on select items 
ANN TAYLOR | 50% off everything & free shipping with code CYBER50
ASOS | 30% off everything with code THANKFUL30
BANANA REPUBLIC | 50% off everything, no exclusions!
CLINIQUE | 25% off everything with code CYBER
BAUBLE BAR  | 35% off 2+ items with code SAVE35
BERGDORF GOODMAN  | 40% off men’s and women’s designer
BLOOMINGDALES  | 25% off selection of regular and sale-price items, free returns + free shipping
EXPRESS  | 50% off everything & free shipping on all orders
GAP  | 50% off everything with code CYBMON 
GIGI NEW YORK  | Spend $125, save 20%; spend $250 save 25%; spend $350 save 30%
J.CREW  | 40% off your purchase + free shipping with code MONDAY 
JOSS & MAIN | Extra 30% off select sales with code CYBERDAY
KATE SPADE  | 30% off with code WIRED
LAST CALL  | Extra 40% to 80% off everything  with code CYBER
LOFT | 50% off everything with code CYBERMONDAY
MACY’S | Extra 20% off and free shipping with $25 purchase, use code CYBER
MARK AND GRAHAM | 25% off everything + free shipping & monogramming with code FRIENDS
NEIMAN MARCUS | Receive gift card with purchase with code GC4YOU
NORDSTROM | Extra 20% off selected items
NORDSTROM RACK | Free Shipping + up to 75% off clearance
SUR LA TABLE | Save up to 75% + Extra 20% off clearance with code SAVEBIG16
SWOOZIES | 20% off plus free shipping with code CYBERMONDAY
TORY BURCH | 30% off everything with code THANKS
WAYFAIR | Up to 80% off 
WILLIAM SONOMA | Buy more save more (10% off $50 purchase, 15% off $100 purchase, etc)

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-38 This Cranberry Ginger Cocktail will completely change your life, especially this holiday season! The sweetness of the cranberry juice paired with the sparkling ginger ale is the perfect bubbly fusion! And then add that pop from the vodka, and bam! Ladies and gentelmen, we have a showstopping cocktail! Whip out this baby at your next Christmas party and you will have all your guests talking!

And of course, for all those youngsters, just leave out the vodka and you have a tasty mocktail and they will never know what they are missing!

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-60

The holidays are officially here and it’s time to spread some Christmas cheer! You know what that means! Time to trim the tree, decorate your home, shop ’til you drop, and bake some of your favorite holiday goodies while blasting those classic holiday tunes!

If you’re like me, with these high temps down here in Texas, it’s a bit trickier to get in the holiday groove. We are all used to the lack of snow in the South, but temperatures in the 80’s are of no help! So to help get me in the Christmas spirit this year, I have teamed up with my favorite holiday store Holiday Warehouse to create my own winter wonderland right here in Dallas!

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-4the-everyday-hostess-christmas-5

Follow this step-by-step tutorial, and you too can bring home the magic of Christmas and transform your Christmas tree into a magical winter wonderland.

  1. Select the Right Christmas Tree

The Christmas tree is the shining centerpiece of your home, so this step is key! In order to lay the foundation for your winter wonderland and create a wintery, snow dusted scene, consider investing in an artificial flocked or frosted tree this year.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-3

Flocked trees are adorned with a heavy artificial snow, so you already have the illusion of a snowy wonderland and half your work is done! The needles on frosted trees are usually just spray painted white and they retain their flat shape. Both are great options, but if you want the full snowy look, I recommend a flocked tree. Holiday Warehouse up in Plano has a full selection of each type and can help you find the the tree that will perfectly bring your vision to life.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-10

  1. Choose your Color Scheme

So we know that you want to create a winter wonderland, but what kind of style or formality do you want to create? Do you want a more romantic scene with only shades of white? Are you aiming for something a bit more glam by adding some metallic tones? Or, do you want something more playful by adding in an accent color?

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-6

Last year, we decorated our tree with champagne and gold ornaments and ribbon, but I was loving a festive burst of red to go with my wintery whites this time around!

  1. Hang the Christmas Tree Lights

If you bought an artificial flocked or frosted tree, chances are the lights are already strung; however, if your tree does not include them, this is the first step you will want to take in decorating your tree!

To continue with your theme, buy about 100 white lights for every vertical foot of your tree. Start at the bottom bough and move upwards. String the lights starting at the trunk and moving towards the tip of the branch and then back. Continue until you reach the top of the tree. Make sure that the lights are plugged in while you are wrapping the tree, so you can easily see if you missed any sections.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-9

  1. Add the Ribbon or Garland

This is where you will bring out your color scheme and differentiate your winter wonderland. Garlands and ribbons add a beautiful pop of color and texture that gives some added appeal to your tree. If you are going for that romantic, pure white scheme, select two white ribbons with different textures. Or if you want to add a pop of color, select one white ribbon and one red or the color of your choosing.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-19

Starting at the top of the tree, softly wrap your ribbon slowly around the tree, increasing the width as you move down. If you want to mix up the classic ribbon look, consider draping the ribbon in a vertical manner by starting at the top of the tree and creating bustles of about 1.5 feet in length moving towards the base of the tree.

Pro Tip: Christmas tree ribbon can be very pricey, so to help with the cost, consider using a budget friendly ribbon option on the interior of tree and using a more expensive one on the outer layers.

  1. Add the Picks and Stems

Christmas tree picks and stems are a great way to add a little volume to your tree as well as an extra pop of color. You can buy these florals already made or have your local holiday store make you one that matches your theme. Holiday Warehouse has an entire room of pick options that are perfect for this snowy wonderland theme!

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-11

I wanted to create a pick that married my wintery theme with the playful natural red tones, so I used a red berry pick, a snow covered pine cone and branch, and a crystal branch to create a pick that pulled my theme together perfectly.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-13

You always want to decorate with odd numbers, so make sure that you have an odd number of picks for your tree. For my 7.5 foot tree, I used 7 picks in my tree. If your tree is a bit smaller, you may want to use just 5, but if it’s bigger, you may want 9-11 picks.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-14

  1. Hang the Christmas Tree Ornaments

Now this is the fun part of the decorating process! Start by hanging the larger balls evenly throughout the tree, ensuring that you hang some closer to the trunk to create depth and dimension. Use a copper wire to secure them to the tree and place heavier balls towards the top of the tree and closer to the trunk so they are not knocked off by pets or passersby.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-20

Once you have hung the larger balls and ornaments, fill in around them with medium- to small-sized balls and decorative ornaments. The decorative ornaments is where your tree can really shine and your can show off your personality. Consider ornaments that continue to pull in the winter wonderland vibe such as snow covered pine cones, snowy antlers, snowflakes, and icicles etc. I paired orbs with glittery, matted, and snowy looks to achieve a balance of glam and festiveness.

The Everyday Hostess Christmas

Make sure you step back and evaluate your work while you are decorating to ensure you aren’t missing any sections and that your favorite pieces are properly showcased!

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-30

  1. Add the Tree Topper

Finally, add your tree topper. There are such a beautiful variety of tree toppers including angels, stars, and bows; however, for this snowy wonderland, I love the idea of a simple bow on top, or some large snow covered antlers, or snowflakes! Huge thanks to Holiday Warehouse for making this fabulous bow for me!

  1. Decorate Around the Tree

Just because the tree is complete, doesn’t mean your work is done! The setting around the tree is almost just as important as the tree itself.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas

Start with a winter inspired Christmas tree skirt at the base of the tree such as a white fur lined skirt or even a white sheepskin rug if you have one laying around your house.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-2

Place your presents at the base of the tree on top of your tree skirt with the larger gifts in the back and the smaller ones in the front. I recommend wrapping your presents in 3 to 4 different wrapping papers that match the color scheme of your tree. For example, if your tree is purely white and romantic, consider wrapping your presents in a selection of textured white papers. Or if you brought in that red color like I did, a selection of red and white papers is perfect.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-15

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-7

Now for my favorite part! Additional winter wonderland decor! To really help create that magical snowy scene, bring in some white winter animals such as these stuffed deers that I brought in from Holiday Warehouse. Or perhaps you have a cute vintage toboggan or some frosted tree branches that would be perfect leaning up against the tree. This is a fun way to get creative and style your tree with some of your favorite winter creatures.

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-8

Now sit back, (turn on the A/C if you are here in Texas) dim the lights, and enjoy your perfect winter wonderland Christmas tree with your loved ones! Merry Christmas to all!

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-28

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-27

the-everyday-hostess-christmas-24

 

Photography: Stephanie Drenka

Christmas Decor: Holiday Warehouse

Styling: The Everyday Hostess

Calligraphy: JBScript

how-to-create-your-own-winter-wonderland - the everyday hostess

 

My Texas followers already know this, but for any readers up north who may be unaware… margaritas are a big deal in these parts. They’re the crown jewel of summer libations that help us get through 100-degree stretches with smiles on our faces.

But we’re in the dog days of autumn, so what’s a girl to do?! That’s right, you fall-ify that wonderful drink that is so near and dear to us and our neighbors to the south!

This concoction is just as easy to make as it is delicious… Watch the short video above and follow these simple steps to take your autumn festivities to the next level!

Apple Cider Margarita
Yields 1
Write a review
Print
Total Time
5 min
Total Time
5 min
Ingredients
  1. 1/2 ounce Grand Marnier
  2. 1/2 ounce gold tequila
  3. 3 ounces sweet apple cider
  4. Apple slices
  5. Cinnamon and cane sugar
  6. Cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Add a few spoonfuls of cane sugar and cinnamon to a small plate.
  2. 2. Run an apple segment around the edge of the glass and then coat the rim of the glass by pressing it into the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  3. 3. Add a few apple slices and ice in the bottom of the glass.
  4. 4. Add the Grand Marnier, tequila and apple cider and stir to mix.
  5. 5. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks. Enjoy!
The Everyday Hostess https://www.theeverydayhostess.com/

It’s absolutely crazy to me that Thanksgiving is just a week away! I don’t know where the time has gone, but it definitely doesn’t feel like the holidays should be here already (maybe because it’s still 85 degrees here in Dallas)!

One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is wandering through stores and scrolling through Pinterest admiring all of my favorite designer’s holiday decor and tablescapes! I can’t wait for the year when we can host our own Thanksgiving dinner at our home, but in the meantime you can bet that I am dreaming about every single detail and how I would set the table if we were hosting.  

I’ve compiled 11 of my favorite Thanksgiving tables this year that has me seeing hearts in hopes that this will help inspire you as well!

Whether you are right there with me and dreaming about your future holiday tablescapes, or you are looking for inspiration for your Turkey day dinner table, this is the post for you. From modern rustic to luxe glam, no matter what your style is, there is bound to be something here to inspire you!

Enjoy and happy Thanksgiving, friends!

once-wed-thanksgiving-table Once Wedcountry-living-tablescape Country Livinghomey-oh-my-thanksgiving-table Homey Oh Myrooms-for-rent-blog-thanksgiving-table Rooms for Rent Blogthe-everyday-hostess-and-the-iman-project-thanksgiving-table The Everyday Hostesssarah-sherman-samuel-tablescape Sarah Sherman Samuel

celebrate-living-everyday-tablesscape   Celebrating Life Everydayholly-mathis-interiors  Holly Mathis Interiors    View More: http://lindsaydavenportphotography.pass.us/love-you-a-brunch-11-5-16-print  The Everyday Hostessyummy-mummy-kitchen-thanksgiving-table Yummy Mummy Kitchencountry-living-tablescape-2 Country Living

If you’re looking for some Thanksgiving tablescape inspiration, then go ahead and close all those Pinterest browsers because we have some fabulous inspiration for you right here!The Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman Project 6 Bree from The Iman Project and I had so much fun styling this Chip and Joanna inspired Thanksgiving tablescape! Of course we are right there with the rest of America and love their modern farmhouse look, but we also wanted to add a vintage yet formal flare to our table this year.

The Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman Project 20

With Bree’s homemade farm table, our antique place settings and couch, Coral Lane’s modern chairs, Root and Bloom’s natural garland, and the Paper and Taigh’s menus, this setting was the perfect marriage of the modern and vintage look we were going for.

The Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman Project 9

No matter what your style is or what type of Thanksgiving theme you are going for this year, there is bound to be something here that inspires you!

Check out some of our favorite pictures from the shoot!

The Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman Project 7The Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman Project 8The Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman ProjectThe Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman Project 3The Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman Project 2The Everyday Hostess Thanksgiving Table from the Iman Project 4

Special thanks to all the incredible vendors who helped bring our vision to life!

Styling: The Everyday Hostess + The Iman Project |

Photography: Photography by Katsi |

Florals: Root and Bloom |

Farmhouse Table: The Iman Table |

Venue: Summerfield at Tate Farms |

Candlesticks and Chair Rentals: Coral Lane

Menus: Paper and Taigh

Just as brunch is the classic combination of breakfast and lunch (and drinks!), this adorable rendezvous was the perfect fusion of rustic tones and bright colors!

The Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport Brunch

One of my dear “Friendors” (Vendor friends 🙂 ) Lindsay with Lindsay Davenport Photography asked me to style her Fall appreciation shoot and brunch for her 2016 wedding couples, and, of course, I jumped all over it! Whenever I have the opportunity to work with a friend and design festive tablescapes, you can bet that I am all in (and immediately on Pinterest scanning for ideas!)! With just a little bit of brainstorming, our “We Love You a Brunch” event was born!

The Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport Brunch

This party screamed “fall,” and I love it! The auburn based color palette complemented the earthy tones in the wooden tables and accents. And, let’s be real for a sec… you’re on the wrong site if you don’t want a touch of glam! The gold silverware and beaded chargers gave the pop the tablescape needed.

The Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport Brunch

And oh my GOURD are these pumpkins not the perfect autumn accent?? With pumpkins on the tables and serving stations, Lindsay’s guests had to be getting that fall feeling (even if the air doesn’t feel like it down here).

The Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport Brunch

Now how could I style a party without my new favorite fall trend!? These acrylic calligraphy signs by the very sweet Caddy Corner Designs and the illusion of the floating menu were the perfect bright and airy touch to the buffet! Plus they brought in a touch of modern flare that paired perfectly with the fall rustic vibe.

View More: http://lindsaydavenportphotography.pass.us/love-you-a-brunch-11-5-16-printThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport BrunchThe Everyday Hostess and Lindsay Davenport Brunch

Our “We Love You a Brunch”was a huge success filled with delicious food, festive decor, and of course, lots of laughs! Special thanks to all the fabulous vendors who made this shoot and event possible!

Photography: Lindsay Davenport Photography

Styling: The Everyday Hostess 

Calligraphy: Caddy Corner Designs 

Farm Tables: The Iman Project + Lavender & Mint Designs

Invitations: Sprinkled Designs 

Straws: A Party Through My Eyes