Tag: Valentine’s Day

Accessories /

Valentine’s Go-To Outfit for All The Occasions

Whether it’s a hott Valentines, Galentine’s Date, or a cozy night in cooking with the BF, comfort yet style is a MUST.

La Peony’s Carolina Jumpsuit Fuchsia is the PERFECT Valentine’s Day outfit for any activity.

La Peony  – The Carolina Jumpsuit Fuchsia  – A fresh new take on fashion from female founders who proudly support Oaxaca’s women artisans

About La Peony (PEE-UH-NEE) Clothing:

Co-Founders Melony Huber and DeAnne Combs introduce a sustainably-sourced collection of timeless fashion pieces for women designed to “move with you through every stage of life.” Proudly working with Oaxaca-based female artisans, La Peony is a brand that uplifts the modern wardrobe and supports the lives of the skilled women who create the fabrics. Each piece nurtures the unique beauty in every woman while supporting a lifestyle of love for the planet. Ethically sourced in Oaxaca, Mexico, and made with sustainable dyes in Los Angeles, browse the complete line at LaPeony.com. Follow @La_Peony_Clothing on Instagram for style inspiration, behind-the-scenes artisan features, and brand updates. La Peony – Founded by women, made by women, for every woman.

Lifestyle /

At-home Valentine’s Day meal with The Fresh Market

The Fresh Market’s heart-shaped ribeye has returned! Many people are planning to spend Valentine’s Day at home this year, and our Premium Choice Sweetheart Ribeye is the perfect way to say “I love you” deliciously.

Hand-cut and butterflied by our expert butchers, this steak maintains its unique shape when cooked. The meat is aged a minimum of 14 days for maximum tenderness.

This limited-time specialty is available in store from February 11-14.

Is your love more of a seafood fan? Woo them with our Heart-Shaped Crab Cakes. Available February 9-14, these perfectly seasoned Maryland crab cakes are ready to cook when you pick them up.

As the holidays draw nearer, keep an eye out at your local The Fresh Market for more specialty items like our chocolate-dipped strawberries, heart-shaped desserts and show-stopping florals.

Interior Design /

5 INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS THAT WILL BOOST THE ROMANCE IN YOUR HOME THIS VALENTINE’S DAY

Believe it or not, the way you design and decorate your home can have an impact on your relationship. There are a lot of things that homeowners do in designing their spaces that can put romance on the back burner. The decor in a home—whether that’s a rented condo or a house in the suburbs—is important for setting the right tone and sending the right message to those who inhabit the space. Make sure cupid is ready and willing to visit with these easy to apply decorating ideas:

Add out-of-sight storage for turn-off items

Shoes, stacks of bills, kids toys, and dirty laundry don’t exactly set the mood for Valentine’s Day. One way homeowners can improve their living space in time for the holiday of love is by reducing clutter and installing storage options that keep turn-off items out of sight. Over-the-door organizers in closets are perfect for anything from shoes to house cleaners and stuffed animals. Double duty storage benches by the front door provide a home for seasonal gear, such as coats and boots, and a place for family and friends to sit down and take off outerwear upon entering the house, decorative baskets as a catch all for books, magazines, pet/kids toys etc… Installs shelves or modular closet systems in smaller spaces that cannot hold bulky pieces of furniture. Nothing melts worries and stress, leaving vacancy for feelings of intimacy, then a clean and clutter-free environment.

Decorate the walls with photos and memorabilia

Displaying pictures and items that represent special moments in a relationship helps foster intimacy, and it’s an easy and inexpensive home improvement option that can be done by Valentine’s Day. Homeowners can stage precious moments in shadow boxes and on floating shelves. Collect saved items from events like weddings or childbirth and store them together with props to elevate the setting. For example, if a picture captures a husband kissing his pregnant wife’s belly in a field of flowers or on a beach, incorporate elements from that scene such as a vase of sunflowers or a bottle of sand and sea glass. Next, frame ultrasound pictures and announcements and arrange them with props in an aesthetically pleasing way.

Choose soothing colors

Take a look at the colors that a business like a spa will choose: natural shades of green, blue and light hues of browns and taupes, all intended to create the feel of a lush and calm oasis. Homeowners don’t always consider the use of color in the aesthetic of a home, often opting for neutrals that border on boring. That doesn’t inspire a lot for romance though, and even if the homeowner begins with a single room (the bedroom, perhaps?), adding colors that soothe the soul will help create a perfect mood. Whether that’s wall color to the choices of artwork on the wall, choosing soothing colors from nature inspired palettes will help to create a harmonious space. In the same style, it’s best to avoid gender focused colors and styling, so that everyone feels comfortable in the space. Too much pink or mahogany can be off putting.

Set the mood with lighting 

Homeowners will be surprised by how much a simple change of a light bulb can impact the atmosphere of a room. White light mimics natural light, making a room feel more expansive. Yellow light, on the other hand, casts a cozy glow, perfect for setting a romantic tone. Utilize both lighting options by pairing white lights with ceiling fixtures and yellow light with table lamps. That way homeowners can choose between the two lighting based on their needs. (White light while reading and working, and yellow light while cuddling their partners.) Take lighting a step further by burning candles with pleasant scents regularly, and stringing up twinkling fairy lights for a whimsical, fairy tale atmosphere.

Focus on the bedroom

When romance is in the cards, a cozy den is nice. A beautifully set dining table is excellent. But the ‘’pièce de résistance” has to be the bedroom. This is where a little luxury is worth the expense. It starts with adding storage for everything, as noted in the first tip, and then then it’s a question of personal taste. A quality mattress is a good first step. Considering that adults spend 6-8 hours a night sleeping, which is a full third of every day, it makes sense to put a little quality into the one piece of furniture that gets used the most. Bedding should be luxurious, with 1000 count thread sheets, soft duvets and perfect pillows. A cashmere throw blanket is the height of luxury and would put anyone in the mood! The right color palette, lighting and bedding is all it takes to make the bedroom a space to enjoy.

With most people spending more time at home these days, events like Valentine’s Day are more important than ever. Creating a beautiful space has the advantage that, while homeowners will enjoy it on the day, it can be appreciated the rest of the year as well!

Bio:

Marty Basher is the home improvement and organization expert with Modular Closets, https://www.modularclosets.com. Marty regularly contributes on topics of DIY renovations, home design, organization, improvement and more, helping home owners get the most out of the spaces in their home. Modular Closets are high-quality and easy-to-design closet systems made in the USA you can order, assemble and install yourself, in no time at all. Using closet modules (closet pieces you can mix & match to design your own modular closet), homeowners everywhere are empowered to achieve a true custom closet look- for nearly 40% less than standard custom closets. 

Accessories /

Valentine’s Looks for Home Lounging or Date Night, by Hypeach

Valentine‘s Day and Galentine’s get togethers will look a bit different this year!

Hypeach Lounge recently launched with comfy separates and slippers. For a night out with a special loved one or celebrating with good friends, Hypeach offers dresses, rompers, tops, accessories, and more for every occasion.

With love in the air this Valentine‘s Day, Hypeach celebrates their one year anniversary this Valentine‘s Day with special limited time offers! Even more, a portion of every purchase goes to GlobalGirl Media, a women-run charity that empowers young women.

Accessories /

#OOTD or #WIW Sweet Pea Hi-Lo Off The Shoulder Blouse: Valentine’s Day Casual Look

Last Thursday was Valentine’s Day and I’m sure that everyone wanted the perfect outfit.  Ever since being a kid, I have enjoyed dressing up for this holiday.

I was planning to purchase items from another store but lost track of my weekly schedule between digital marketing, business consultations, and civic meetings.  Either way, I ran over to one of my favorite retailers (since college) to purchase a blouse.  I already planned to wear skinny jeans and rose gold booties.

The Sweet Pea Hi-Lo Off The Shoulder Blouse was a nice addition to the items in my closet.  I also wore a pair of rose gold chandelier earrings but they were not visible in the photo.

My valentine’s day gift was the bracelet seen on my wrist.  As the day unfolded we enjoyed lunch and was surprised by a new family pet!

Hi-Lo Blouse:  New York & Company | Booties:  Express

Beauty /

GET READY FOR VALENTINE’S DAY: ERBORIAN, BAN, AND JOHN FRIEDA HAIR CARE

It’s all about the prep when it comes to a great Valentine’s Day look. Feel and look your best for date night or a girls night out with these essential products from Erborian, Ban, and John Frieda Hair Care.

Erborian BB Shot Mask ($8, Erborian.com)

Bring your skin to life with this instant beauty-boosting sheet mask that acts as a true concentrate for a flawless complexion. Delivering results comparable to those of serum, it immediately helps to plump skin with moisture, smooth and refine skin’s texture and illuminate the complexion, leaving you and your skin ready to take on the night.

Erborian Glow Crème ($42, Erborian.com)

Glow Crème offers a luminous blur effect and a fresh complexion in a simple step. Enriched with licorice extract, this multi-benefit crème helps to brighten, beautify and moisturize, while also helping to smooth the skin. Subtly pearlescent, your skin will illuminate with an ultra-radiant glow effect leaving you feeling date night ready.

Ban Purely Gentle Roll-On Deodorant ($10, Amazon.com)

Throw this roll-on deodorant in your purse for that quick touch up you need before your plans. This formula glides on clear and clump-free, leaving your skin feeling smooth and instantly refreshed. It’s made with a gentler formula, that provides 24-hour protection against underarm perspiration even for those with sensitive skin.

John Frieda Day 2 Revival Dry Shampoo ($9.49, Amazon.com)

Save time and instantly refresh second-day hair without leaving a visible residue. This lightly scented dry shampoo quickly absorbs oils and reactivates style leaving hair looking and feeling clean.

John Frieda Day 2 Revival Wave Refresh Spray ($9.49, Amazon.com)

Give yesterday’s waves a spritz with this refreshing spray that contains a unique blend of Acai and Avocado Dry Oil. This will add texture and grip to-day 2 hair, making getting ready for valentine’s day that much easier.

 

Beauty /

Valentine’s Day Date Night Prep

Prepping for Valentine’s Day can be a chore, but with the help of these date night essentials, you’ll be out the door and fully prepped in no time! These easy to apply, fast acting formulas will make your date night prep a breeze!

  • Curél Hydra Therapy Wet Skin Moisturizer (Target.com; $10.99): No time to moisturize? Don’t sweat it. This in shower wet skin moisturizer is the ultimate time saver. Simply apply on wet skin with the water turned off, and feel instantly moisturized just moments later. When used daily, you can end dry skin for good!
  • Jergens Brilliance Flawless Effects Moisturizer (Amazon; $11.99): This skin-perfecting moisturizer will give you all the confidence to wear that little red dress this Valentine’s Day! Going a step further than hydration, this moisturizer instantly perfects skin by blurring imperfections and improving overall skin tone on the spot.
  • Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color in Pink Blink ($4.99;Target.com): The perfect date night pink, with the ultimate perk- 60-second drying. Simply apply one coat, dry, and be on your way!
  • Josie Maran Vibrancy Paint Palate ($42.00; Josiemarancosmetics.com): For the final touch, and ultimate ease, add some color to your look with this multipurpose palate. Each blendable shade is perfect for eyes, lips,
Lifestyle Tips /

5 Steps Towards Perfect Valentine’s Celebration

Life spins at warp speed, so it’s more important than ever to make time to show your loved one that you adore and cherish them. Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion.Sleepletics7199-BEDDING-CHALK.jpg

You know how you want to celebrate – just the two of you, spending a cozy night in, ending the evening with cuddling in bed, enjoying the sheer luxury of Celliant® Performance Sheets. More than beautiful and sleek to the touch, these sheets also show you care. Made with mineral-infused fibers that convert body heat into infrared light and reflect it back into the body’s muscle and tissue in a natural, safe way to promote a temporary increase in blood flow and local circulation. Just imagine how good you’ll both feel.  For a limited time, you can buy one set and get a second set half off with the promo code: LOVE at sleepletics.com.

Featured Photo from French Institute Alliance 

As to the important details that come before? Flowers, cards, dinner, chocolate and such that set the stage for that perfect time together? Not to worry, Sleepletics™ has scoured the country for what may be the best of the best in each category. Pick your favorite and enjoy the most romantic Valentine’s Day ever:

FLOWERS

Flowers speak volumes — and never make a sound. Yet since the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans they’ve represented love. Choose something classic or talk to the florist about a personalized arrangement. You can’t go wrong with flowers. Two top-of-the-line flower vendors are presented here:Session 2-009.JPG

The definitive symbol of romance, roses are the specialty at Ode à la Rose. Co-founded by two Frenchmen, the flowers are sourced from eco-friendly farms and arranged à la Parisienne. Colors range from the descriptive Snowball to Black Magic and many in between. Verifying your Valentine will like the flowers, you’ll be sent a photo of the bouquet before it leaves the workshop. Same-day delivery in NYC and Chicago, and next-day delivery to over 1,400 cities in the Northeast. odealarose.com, 646-660-4351.

For something more offbeat, a bit rustic in style, contact Farmgirl Flowers of San Francisco, that ethically sources its blooms, 80 percent of them in the U.S. Listed in Architectural Digest’s 2018 “7 Best Local Flower Shops Across the Country with Beautiful Design,” each of its bouquets are one-of-a-kind, and most are delivered in owner Christina Stembel’s signature burlap wrap. Delivery is available to the lower 48. farmgirlflowers.com.

CARDS

A surprise is one of the most important elements of a Valentine card, and what better way to achieve that than to make it yourself or find one so unique it’s truly a keepsake. Two faves:

With Duco® Cement glue a pretty vintage key to the front of folded, white card stock, and surround it with the phrase, handwritten in red, “You hold the key to my heart.” Then write your personal message on the inside. Make it totally unforgettable by using a key that fits a new car’s ignition or a jewelry box containing a gift-wrapped trinket or two._DSC5545.jpg

You can find instructions for making sliceform kirigami cards online, but the easier thing to do is to buy a Lovepop® card. The intricate 3D paper sculptures, of which there are myriad formats, from a bouquet of flowers to a fluttering butterfly, are designed by naval engineers on software and then handcrafted. Either way, they are truly works of art. lovepopcards.com, 888-687-9589.

DINNER

The essence of the perfect Valentine’s dinner is to serve something that while exceptional, will definitely please your loved one such veggies for a vegetarian, or salmon if they like fish. Two easy-to-prepare meals that look gorgeous and taste incredible are:

Eggplant Florentine with Fire-Roasted Tomato Sauce & Toasted Ciabatta. Colorful and architectural in presentation, it’s completely vegan, yet so scrumptious meat lovers enjoy it just as much. The recipe can be found on purplecarrot.com.

Steak au Poivre. Nothing is more refined than this dish, a renowned favorite of 5-star restaurants around the world. Fast prep gives you more time with your love, few ingredients mean less time in the kitchen. Find the recipe on epicurious.com.

CHOCOLATES

Chocolates have evolved enormously over the past few years. There are still plenty of extraordinary classics, but also a multitude of new ones using offbeat ingredients and looking more artistic than ever before. Two companies with choices galore that you should consider:

ROYCE’ has been making exquisite confections in Hokkaido, Japan, an ideal location with its cool climate and clean air, since 1983. Available in stores throughout the US, vdabannerbox-775x800.pngthe selection ranges from the unusual – Prafeuille Chocolate Maccha – to such straight shooters as Pure Chocolate Venezuela Bitter.  For store locations, visit https://order.royceconfectusa.com/pages/royce-store-locations. They’re also a member of the World Cocoa Foundation, which promotes social and economic development as well as environmental stewardship in cocoa-growing communities.

MarieBelle, established in New York’s Nolita neighborhood by Maribel Lieberman in 2000, and singled out by Oprah as a “favorite thing,” suggests such items as champagne truffles and single-origin chocolate ganache for Valentine’s Day. Not only mouthwatering delicious, the chocolate’s packaging is tongue-in-cheek fun. mariebelle.com.

BED LINENS

As noted, there’s only one choice when it comes to bed linens when you want to end Valentine’s Day on a high, Celliant Sheets. Not only elegant, available in sophisticatedSleepleticsTan.jpg blue, chalk, tan and light grey, but they are also an FDA- determined medical device and general wellness product that helps people fall asleep easily, stay asleep and wake up refreshed and energized. Could there be a lovelier way to start a new day? And, don’t forget the promo code: LOVE.

Make this Valentine’s day, and night, to remember with gifts of joy for your love’s body, mind, and spirit.

Accessories /

Valentine’s Day Pieces From Loft: Pleated Sleeve Top, Statement Earrings, and Faux Fur Zip Pouch

The holiday season sparkle outfits have left us but it’s time to start looking ahead.  The Loft has some fashionable pieces curated just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Personally, this is one of my favorite retailers because of the store’s diverse style and affordable prices.  There’s something for everyone at The Loft!

This year’s Valentine’s Day items range from heart stud earrings to velvet heel block pumps.  The Loft also has great coupons so be sure to sign-up.  If you don’t have time to shop in-store visit their online shop.  It’s well-organized to meet the needs of any avid digital customer.

My picks for Valentine’s Day are below; I will feature a style photo on Instagram and Twitter!