Found! DIY Hair Ties by Tera Rae Stephens!

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I have been wanting to buy hair ties like these for about a year now.  Not sure why I can't just bring myself to spend the money and save myself from even more broken hairs and this lovely crown of frizz.  So I was super excited to see this tutorial on how to make your own by Tera Rae Stephens.    

Go Check it out here!  Tera is my hair stylist and is super awesome.  From getting to know her over the last year or so I know that she is a talented craftress, can throw a mean party and is pretty much a super amazing working mom.  I'm really hoping she shares more of those adventures on her blog.  We all stand to benefit from that.  Show her some love!  Oh!  And she's doing a giveaway!  So hop over and enter!  

Sharon

images via Tera Rae Stephens

Inspiration Board Challenge - November 2011

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I don't even know how I "met" Amanda of I Go You Go.  I say "met" because although we have been trying to meet in person for a month, we still have not managed to do it. :(  If you know her blog, you know that she is a girl of many talents.  And although she talks about healthy living and foods on her site I know she can get down with me and some calorie packed dessert treats.  And that is why I like her.  She seems super fun loving and I hope we can make that meet up happen really soon.  For now, she is the next participant for my monthly Inspiration Board Challenge.    

In case you aren't familiar with her blog, I'm going to share some of the things I love about it.  One of the recurring posts that Amanda does is called Event Envy (under the "party" tag) where she shares awesome parties that she has found around the web.  She has such great taste.  I always look forward to seeing what new fab parties she will find.  I am going to be honest though and tell you I am not fond about her "Workout Wednesday" feature (found in "fitness").  It always reminds me that I'm not working out and then I feel bad and go eat a cookie.  But she always wins me back with her shoe love.     

And you have to check out this super fun trailer trash party Amanda threw for her husband. 

She also has tons of awesome recipes on the site that we should all try to cook our way through.  Go check I Go You Go out now!  

Follow her on Facebook.

photo via DVF

How gorgeous is this inspiration item? I first saw this Darla top in a DVF catalog and fell in love with the colors.  I wouldn't say that green is my favorite color but if you look around at my belongings, especially items to be worn, I sure do own a lot of green...But I love it mixed with a glittery bronze and of course a little black never hurts anything.  This color scheme would lend itself so well to any kind of event.  I can't wait to see what Amanda comes up with!!!  Check back near the end of the month to see what she shares. 

Who would like to participate next?  Email me, cupcakesandcutlery@gmail.com

Sharon

All photos except the DVF top via I Go You Go

Guest Posting - Fashion Inspo Boards!

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I'm so excited!  I was asked to put together my first fashion inspiration board based on a fictitious (well, fictitious for me anyway) High School Reunion at a local bar by Amanda of I Go You Go.  It was certainly a challenge but I think I picked looks that I would actually wear and that fit my style (although I am not sure that comes through in my standard issue jeans and oversize t-shirts that I wear on a day to day basis...)  Go check out my two looks here! 

Sharon

image courtesy of I Go You Go

The Boden Winter Collection Catalogue is Delightful

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How great is this photo from the Boden Winter 2011 catalogue?!  I saw it in the mailbox this afternoon and just had to share.  I love how they took an iconic photo and modernized it with their great clothes and amazing mixes of pattern.  And you must check out their online work as well.  I am in love with the raw concrete and brick walls mixed with party dresses and lights!  And then check out the little girls party dresses.  I am dying for that sequin tutu!  Any sewers want to make one in my size?   I have only bought a few gifts for other people from Boden, nothing for myself, but am consistently dazzled by the styling of their catalogues.  You should subscribe!  Tons of inspiration! 

Sharon

photo is a scan of the Boden catalogue 

Allsaints Spitalfields rocks your kids back to school

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Both of my sons have really long hair.  My oldest son doesn't want to cut his (even a trim) before school starts because he thinks he won't be a rockstar with short hair.  I know that isn't true but trying to convince him otherwise is quite a task.  So when I found these really awesome kid's clothes at Allsaints Spitalfield (most of them on sale), I knew we had to get them.  With these clothes on, no one could could accuse him of not rocking.  

And while you are there, why not pick up a great gift for yourself.  You've got to go back to school in style too.  If my husband is reading this, I did not buy anything for myself.  Promise.  Wink.

*****NOTE! As of the day of this post, the site no longer carries kids clothes! Wish I would have known that because I would have ordered WAY more!  So the name of this post is now, "My Kid is Totally Cooler Than Your Kid."  But you can still buy the scarf!   

Sharon

All photos via the Allsaints Spitalfields website

Mission Accepted! The Secret Style Suite Party by Mom's Fashion File

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Not only did Mom's Fashion File put on an amazing day of makeovers for 12 of us very grateful bloggers, but they also through a party that night as well!  The view was stunning from the Elevation Suite at the Hard Rock Hotel and everyone came dressed to impress.  There were delicious cocktails using Ciao Bella Gelatos and Sorbets.  There was an area showcasing the newest Stokke products (love, love, love the designs!).  There was a bright and cheery candy bar courtesy of Plum District and yummy drinks from Trop50.  Those adorable ladies at the top right are the amazing crew from Mom's Fashion File.  And the lovely ladies near the bottom right are some of my fave OC ladies, Jen of Tiny Oranges and hair expert, Tera Rae Stephens.  

Speaking of Plum District, have you signed up yet?  I know there are a ton of deal sites out there but Plum District is fast becoming a favorite of mine.  You already know how it works, you get an email sharing deals in your area, but what makes Plum District extra special is that their deals are geared towards moms.  I have bought several deals already and have been tempted on dozens more.  And the website is just really pretty.  And that goes a long way with me. 

I got a few more minutes with Cheryl at the party but still feel I need more time with her.  She's freaking funny.  And there is my sweet Amy (and of Operation Shower).  I did get to pal around with her at the party and she helped me calm my nerves about the fashion show I had to take part in!  Yup, a fashion show.  Um, I may come off extroverted but I really don't like the spotlight (which you probably aren't buying because of the amazing amounts of photos I've posted of myself lately - but its true!)

The top left is me trying to act natural, like I always twirl around on a pink carpet in front of a huge group and camera lights.  Cut to super fake smile, trying to be casual and charming while pretending that no one is looking at me.  And finally the group shot (or group shot where I looked cutest but half the girls are cut out) of the rest of the makeover winners.  And scene.  Sigh of relief.  It took all of 2 minutes but had my heart racing.  

At the end of the party, these amazing woven bags were handed out courtesy of Plum District.  They were filled with goodies like Johnson and Johnson products, coupons and recipes for Ciao Bella and so much more! 

It was the perfect way to wrap up the awesome experience that was my makeover.  If you missed that post, go here! 

Mom's Fashion File is a collaboration of bloggers who are moms, are cool and know their stuff.  If you aren't a regular reader, you should go ahead and start now.  They are like your cool best friend recommending the best items for your family.  

See the full makeover gallery here.

See the full party gallery here. 

Sharon

All photos by Bella Diva Photo

Non-Toxic and Amazing Colors: What more could you want from a nail polish!

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I am in love with Scotch Naturals nail polish.  I've seen it in a few magazines but never had the opportunity to try it out before.  Little did I know that my fingers would also be getting a make over from Mom's Fashion File.  Ginny, who IS Scotch Naturals, was on hand to do the manicures.  This polish is water based and totally non-toxic!  As is the remover.  How cool is that? {If you missed the makeover recap go here}   

While Ginny dressed our digits, I got to talk to her about the company.  Now I don't know exactly what her background is, but she is all science-y and stuff.  She talked of formulas, etc.  Of course I pretended to play along like I knew exactly what she was talking about.  :)  As I mentioned my fingers were painted a beautiful, sparkly black but I was kind of silently trying to talk them in to this amazing Navy shade.  These polishes are perfect for pregnant women and anyone looking to keep all those yucky toxins away from them and their fetus.  Oh and EVERYONE else too.   

Now I don't want this next part to come off too shallow, but it is the colors that really put this line over the top for me.  Sure I appreciate her concern for my health, but love that I absolutely don't have to sacrifice my style over it.  The colors are so saturated and gorgeous.  When I mentioned this I was told that because of the natural ingredients and pigments they use, the colors come out very brilliant.  And you know that I am a party blogger at heart and you can bet your hangnails that I am going to be using their site for color inspiration for upcoming parties and designing.  Go to their website to check out their full range of colors.  I just know you will love them too!  

And I don't have little girls of my own, but I will certainly be buying their Hopscotch Naturals line for many a gift in the future.  First of all, how perfect is that name?  How cute is the packaging?  And what an awesome way to teach youngsters about what they are putting on and in their bodies! Find out where to buy Hopscotch Naturals {here}. 

You can plug in your zip code to find a store in your area or purchase straight from their website.  If you are in Orange County, it looks like Seed People's Market in Costa Mesa is your best bet {ps, they have a baby/kids section with great gift items!!}  

I'm so grateful to Mom's Fashion File for that makeover experience!  They put together an amazing group of sponsors! 

Follow Scotch Naturals on Twitter and Facebook!

Sharon

Photos by Amy Winkelmann for Cupcakes and Cutlery

I was not paid for this post.  I was given a Scotch Naturals nail polish after my manicure but the choice to post about this brand was all mine.  And I love them. 

I went to Blogher and all I got was a full makeover! {by Moms Fashion File!}

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Yikes.  That is a very big picture of my face.  Thank goodness it is the "after" photo from the awesome makeover I won from  Mom's Fashion File.  You may remember my {entry post} from a few months ago.  From that, I was one of 12 bloggers chosen to receive a full makeover while at Blogher.  After winning, I filled out questionnaires about my sizing and style preferences but really had no idea what to makeover day would be like.  I was told to report to the penthouse suite at the Hard Rock Hotel at 4pm on the Saturday of Blogher.  Um, OK!  And as with just about all of my other Blogher related posts, I dragged sweet Amy along with me to photograph the adventure.  I should also note that I just really enjoy spending time with her.  I heart that girl. 

Immediately off the elevators was this wall of Sid and Nancy and hoped that I was going to get a little rock and roll for my makeover.  My core is rock and roll but my exterior is generally a little more album alternative/ easy listening.  

via

This is my "before" shot that all participants were required to take before the metamorphosis began.  Wow.  Photographs really are great for showing you what is really going on.  I had no idea that those shoes looked so much like slippers crossed with swim fins (although I got compliments on them at the conference, holler) and the uneven leggings was unintentional.  Oh and hey, there is a toilet in the shot.  Hello, commode.    

This angel is Bethany of LA Stylist Mom.  She IS rock and roll.  If I had to pick one person that I would want to totally copy cat their style, it would be her.  I was so excited to work with her and be cool by association for a while.  You guys, she's, like, a legit stylist.  And she had her work cut out for her.

Follow Bethany on Twitter.    

First I was sent to hair.  The darling girls from San Diego's Detour Salon swaddled me in a smock and set out to give me beachy waves.  But hold the phone.  Do you know what they used?  A straightening iron!  I had accidentally created a wave in my hair once with my straightening iron but have never been able to duplicate it again.  She did my whole hair in about 10 minutes.  Done.  And super cute!!  I want to note that I did try this on myself the very next weekend and it went awry...  I must have missed a technique that is needed to achieve the pretty, slightly messy curls.  The really fun part of getting my hair done, though, was getting to try out the new Windows Phone.  The rep showed me all the cool features, like One Note and how you can open and edit Windows-based programs right from the phone.  Then she let me play around with it.  I even played Angry Birds for the first time!  The drag and drop screen was really fun and I loved that the home page looked like color blocking, so hot for fall!   

The atmosphere in the salon was really fun.  Plum District was a big sponsor of the party Mom's Fashion File was throwing later that night and provided waters for the makeover day.  Yummy sparkling wine was available although I did not partake due to not having eaten a meal since dinner the night before {I had read prior to coming to Blogher that it was hard to get in actual meals, but I though no way.  It was true, even I skipped meals to try to fit it all in.  That is not to say that I didn't hover by the Jimmy Dean booth for several samples that morning}  How yummy does that cake ball look?  The suite was super swanky.  I hoped they would take their time getting me ready so I could pretend that it was my hotel room.

With my hair done did, it was time to get styled!  I was ushered in to a bedroom and the fun began.  The Loft provided this purple wrap dress for me to wear {totally got to keep it!}.  Instead of using the matching tank, Bethany used the Yummy Tummy tank for a little touch of black.  But what shoes...I tried on several pairs and ended up with these black heeled sandals by Dr. Scholl's.  I kid you not, could be the most comfortable heels I have ever worn.  And I kind of can't wait to wear them again. You know how the balls of your feet usually kill the next morning after being out on the town the night before?  Nope, my feet felt great!  And then I learned why Bethany gets paid for what she does.  We could have just tied the belt around the back, or even to the side.  No way.  She tucked and wrapped and made it resemble an Obi belt.  Cool.  Add in the gorgeous metallic flecked infinity scarf and my outfit was complete.  On to accessories.  I took off the Stella and Dot jewelry I walked in with (thank you again, Heather!) and Bethany began to complete my look with a stack of Stella and Dot bracelets and wraps provided to us for the night.  With the leather, studding and snake bangle I kind of rounded the corner to rock and roll.  I looked cute.   Outfit complete!  I wished that I had had a slip, remember that I am 80 years old on the inside, but I loved the overall look.  So fun!  

Let me take a moment to also mention that while I was being styled, fellow blogger Cheryl, of Mommy Pants was getting her Loft on too.  She and her stylist Jillian, of The Fab Mom, were awesome and I was glad to share that experience with them.  They may have seen my boobies. 

Hair, check!  Clothes, check!  Makeup, yes please!  Ms. Tia Dantzler is an artist.  I feel so lucky to have met her and have the opportunity to have my makeup done by her.  I've had my makeup done "professionally" a handful of times for weddings, special occasions, etc.  Only 1 person has ever made me feel beautiful when I walked away.  Until Tia.  I did not get to spend a ton of time with her but she made me feel pretty.  She had the most calming presence, which I totally needed at that moment, and was just a lovely person.  I wish that I had gotten more time with her to actually learn some of the techniques she used.  But luckily for us, she too, has a blog, The Beauty Elixir!  It is filled with beauty tips, how to's, product preferences and rad photos of the amazing work she has done {but, um, totally go check out her portfolio too - she's worked on some amazing people and projects!}  I don't know how she finds the time to do it all, but she is an inspiration.  In an industry where people are quick to judge and want to change people in to something they might not be, she kept me, ME.  I looked like a more dressed up, refined version of myself, but it was me.  She's the best you guys.  I admire her as a business women and creative mind. 

Follow Tia on Twitter.

I feel pretty, oh so pretty.  Except for that claw hand clutching the glass.  Raaaawwwwwrrrrr! 

Next up was a manicure using the Best. Polish. Ever.  I am seriously in love with Scotch Naturals.  I am going to do a whole separate post on them because they are brilliant.  I got this great sparkly black painted on my nails.  Another step closer to full-on rock and roll.  And that completes the make over portion of my day.  What an amazing experience. 

Follow Scotch Naturals on Twitter.

A HUGE thank you to the Mom's Fashion File team that put on the makeovers:  

Brooke of Mom's Fashion File

Allison of Sassy Moms in the City, on Twitter

Andrea of Savvy Sassy Moms, on Twitter.

Nicole of Mom Trends, on Twitter.

Follow Moms Fashion File on Twitter.

I will never forget that experience and it was an amazing way to do Blogher for the first time.   

Yeah.  So this is all the swag I got from the makeover.  See that rad canvas and green bag right there?  That was from Land's End.  Inside was a beach towel {side note:  Land's End beach towels are the best beach towels ever.  I just got rid of the towel I stole from my mom's house when I moved out on my own about 10 years ago.  They are an amazing quality, they are huge and your toes don't hang off in to the sand and you can monogram them.}, white aviator sunglasses, cute brown sandals, a darling pink tankini, a white bathing suite coverup and a gift card for $75!  I'll be sharing what I got with that in a future post.  Check out that red Namaste purse!  I can't wait to use it!  I am so excited to read Soleil Moon Frye's new book, Happy Chaos!  Of course I loved her as Punky but I truly admire the shop, Little Seed, that she opened in Los Angeles.  I think I could learn a lot from her as a parent.  Now I just need my kids to leave me alone for a few minutes so I can get to it.  But that wasn't even close to everything.  I was given this gorgeous orangey-red Scotch Naturals polish which I can't wait to use.  And every Johnson and Johnson's product that I've been wanting to try was sent home with me.  Did you guys know they make a baby oil gel?     

On Twitter follow:

Lands End

Namaste

Soleil Moon Frye, The Little Seed

Johnson and Johnson

With time to kill until the party, Amy and I headed back over to the Hotel Solamar to meet Lisa and have more Basil Gimlets.  We carried all that loot across town.  We looked a little bit like really well dressed homeless ladies.  I passed blogging friends and they were so excited to see my transformation.  I didn't think it was that drastic but a few people didn't recognize me.  After a quick bite, I headed back to the Hard Rock for the Secret Style Suite party.     

Here is my official "after" photo by Bella Diva Photo.  That blue thing in my hand is a drink ticket.  Immediately after the photo I redeemed that baby.  A libation was necessary to calm my nerves for the impending FASHION SHOW I had to be in!  

Details from the party to come!  

See all of Bella Diva Photo's pics during all the makeovers here. 

Sharon 

All photos mine (taken by Amy) unless otherwise noted. 

Blogher 11: Fine Dining in San Diego with Delightful Ladies

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Blogher was SO much fun!  I learned a little, was introduced to some great new products and connected with so many wonderful ladies.  Thursday night was was a nice mellow night, the perfect way to kick off my inaugural visit to the largest blogging conference in the galaxy (may be an exaggeration).  I was super excited to be able to dress up, wear shoes with heels and actually brush my hair for a night out with the ladies.  And don't forget that almost all of my jewelry for the weekend was provided by Stella and Dot.  How great is this first necklace, The Leona?!  And I could wear their wrap bracelets every day.  And please let me just point out that although my pose is a bit awkward, like you've caught me mid jazzercise, my right thigh looks skinny and awesome!  This is my new "go to" pose and will require an extra 12 inches on my right side for anyone interested in taking a photo with me.  Please let me know if your "good side" happens to be on your left side as then we will be photo compatible.  And this is my favorite purse for going out!  Its a Lockheart (can't remember the name of the style) and is radical.  It comes with a chain to add to wear over your shoulder but I prefer to use the single handle at the top.  While the handle is short, you can either carry it in your hand or on your fore arm.  And it's big and small.  Yeah, I said that together.  And some of you probably even know what I mean.  The shape is sort of narrow and long so you can hold a lot without feeling like you are carrying an adult diaper bag.  

Amy, of Amy's Kitchen Table was the perfect partner in crime and roommate.  But I did think I was going to have to hold her earrings while she beat up the crooked bike taxi driver who tried to extort money from us.  As we are two girls who follow the rules, we certainly didn't feel like we could walk away from the guy but we were quite literally and figuratively taken for a ride.  But it did get us to our dinner destination, Searsucker, in no time at all.  This is a Top Chef contestant's restaurant, and while I do love myself some reality tv, I had also heard great things about the food.  And I was super excited to see the design.  I've pulled several images of the dining room for inspirational purposes so to finally get to see it in person was cool.  The food didn't disappoint and neither did the company.  

Amy, Janel and I at Searsucker {San Diego}

Dinner was shared with Chris of Celebrations at Home and Lindsey, Bev and Janel of Glue Dots.  Janel and I have been working on projects for a while now and it was so great to finally meet in person!  

I have been waiting foreva, eva to meet this adorable, little lady.  Chris at Celebrations at Home is just as lovely in person as I thought she would be.  I was beyond excited that she flew in for the Hostess with the Mostess shindig but it didn't feel fair that I would only get her for two days.  And she's two feet shorter than me so hugging her probably made it look like I was trying to mug her.  She likes the rap music like I do.  Just saying.  After dinner the fine ladies from Glue Dots went off to sponsor a shindig that we weren't invited to so we decided to try out our first Blogher party.  It was all about the newest toys that were coming out and I knew that if my kids were mad at me for being gone, I was sure to bring home some cools swag to win them over.  I was not wrong.  I'll share some of my fave toys picks tomorrow!  

There will be several days of Blogher wrap up posts to come.  Sorry if you guys are sick of hearing about it but it was a good time.  

Sharon

All photos mine except for the photo of Amy, Janel and I taken by Lindsey from Glue Dots.

A Stella and Dot Playdate! Do it!

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By now I am sure that most of you have heard of Stella and Dot.  For those who have not, it is similar to Avon in that you buy from a representative and host in home parties but that is where the similarities end.  Stella and Dot is really cool jewelry made for the modern woman and mom who wants to remain fashionable.  Amy and I leave for Blogher in 3 days, and thought we should start figuring out our wardrobes.  Amy suggested we see about getting styled by her friend, Heather, who is a Stella and Dot stylist.  Um, done.  So we turned it in to a playdate.  Heather brought her adorable little girls and make your own pizzas for the kid's lunches.  Amy hosted us at her house and I brought my little ones.  

For the adults, Heather brought this delicious roasted shrimp and veggie orzo salad.  YUM!  But then it was time to get down to business: get us pretty for our first major blogging conference. 

With the kiddos busy eating out on the patio, Heather took over the dining table and set up shop.  You would not believe how fast this all came out.  She's a finely tuned machine.  It was great to be able to see the pieces and pick them up and really get to know the jewelry.  I was surprised by the quality.  Cartier it is not, but WAY higher than H&M.  They have a few different niches that they design pieces for, which means there is something for everyone.  They have really nice delicate stuff as well as totally on trend items.  I tried on my outfits and we fiddled around with what we felt worked best.  

Here we dressed up my $10 H&M dress with a great layered coin necklace and arm candy.  My wardrobe schedule is pretty well set now.  The stress is off.  Not only did Heather help me decide on the jewelry, but gave me suggestions on shoes as well.  She is awesome you guys! 

Amy tried on her outfits as well and Heather added the finishing touches.  Heather is local to Orange County and you should totally book a party.  Heather and I used to take sewing class together and she's ridiculously Martha Stewarty.  She can help you turn a ho hum jewelry party in to a really fun Girl's Night Out.  Or do a playdate like we did and keep her all to yourself (or a select few friends).  Totally fun.  Just add lemonade.  

Not local?  You can buy pieces right on line here.  

And be sure to "like" Heather's stylist page right here.

I want to thank Heather for loaning me these pieces for Blogher.  I'm super excited to show off these great accessories.  And word on the street is they have hand bags coming out at the end of the month!  I can't wait to check those out! 

Sharon 

All photos are mine.