Beauty

Double Cleansing with Julep Beauty 💋

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Double Cleansing with Julep Beauty 💋

Product : Julep Beauty

When I first came across the Julep Beauty products, I knew immediately I wanted to give them a try. With two Allure Best of Beauty ratings, and a couple of great reviews from friends, I decided these products worth worth a shot, and believe me when I say I was not disappointed!

I guess the big question is “Why double cleanse?”. Have you ever taken off your makeup, and then washed your face with a washcloth and there was still makeup residue left on the washcloth? Double cleansing can help get rid of that residue! It also helps exfoliate, and creates soft glowing skin!

If you are not wanting to purchase the entire set, or you have products you already like, I highly recommend the Charcoal sponge! I find myself grabbing it even when I dont have time for a full regimen. It is a great product for just cleansing the face when you’re in a hurry!

I also love the Boost Your Radiance oil. It is an extremely light weight oil, that gives hydration, and glow!

I have very picky skin! I am constantly battling with milia, and I have to be careful with the products I use on my face! These products keep my skin happy!

More skin care loves to come!

<3 CD

ALL

Sunflowers and a Bikini 🌻

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Sunflowers and a Bikini 🌻

OUTFIT DETAILS

Swimwear : Teeny B Bikinis

I posted this bikini on my Instagram and the DM’s came pouring in asking where it was from! So I decided to do a quick blog post about it!

This is the Sunflower Print bikini! Also comes in a one piece. The bottoms are a very flattering “cheeky” bottom! The top is a banded triangle top that has an extremely comfortable fit.

Why do I rave about Teeny B all of the time? Their swimsuits fit me like a glove. I don’t think any brand Ive worn, fits me like theirs does! Yes, I do model for them, but that is not why I love them. Their fabric is light and soft, and their cuts are just right.

No matter what body style you are, Teeny B will have something for you. From thongs to full coverage, from bikinis, to one pieces. I highly recommend this brand!

For all of the girls asking about this particular swimsuit, click the link above and it will take you right to it!

<3 CD

Fashion

The Perfect Jumpsuit

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The Perfect Jumpsuit

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OUTFIT DETAILS

Jumpsuit : The Jetset Diaries Shoes: Pedro Garcia Watch: Rockwell Watches

When I bought this jumpsuit, I had no idea how much I was going to love it.

I am 5’9″ with legs for days, so rompers and jumpsuits are pretty much a no for me usually.

This TJD jumpsuit fits me like a glove!

The pants are long enough, that even with my height, I can wear tall wedges! I love the detailing on this jumpsuit as well. The top is a halter strap, but could be worn strapless, with cut outs to just show enough to make it pop and be unique! The back of the top has stretch to accommodate chest size, but still give a nice fit.

A jumpsuit like this is a great buy! I have had a lot of people ask me “where would you wear a jumpsuit?”. I would wear it for a photo shoot, a dinner, a night out with friends, a casual event, a fashion week event, etc. I mean jumpsuits really are versatile. You can dress them up or dress them down, your choice!

For accessories on this look, I chose Pedro Garcia Teodora wedges, my Daisy London bracelet (I never take it off), and Rockwell Watches rose gold Commander watch. Sometimes I feel like less is more. Adding just a few rose gold items with this look, gave it a little something, without taking away from the power of the jumpsuit!

This is definitely a piece that will stay in my closet for years to come!

<3 CD

Photo: Jose Luis Photography

Beauty

Saying Goodbye to Unwanted Hair

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Saying Goodbye to Unwanted Hair

 

TREATMENT DETAILS

Medical Spa: A Beautiful You Medical Spa Treatment: Laser Hair Removal

So its no secret that I model bikinis often! I am always trying to find things that will help me be “shoot ready” at all times. I never know when a booking will pop up last minute, or I will need to be ready for swim. I found myself getting wax after wax, and investing a ton of money doing so. I had heard about laser hair removal, and always thought “well its so pricey”, until I put pen to paper and realized I had paid the same amount in constantly waxing, that I could have put into a more permanent treatment. Dont get me wrong, waxing is a must, and I can’t live without my girl Rosalyn Hisky, who is my go to for any waxing I need, but I wanted to do something that would be more cost efficient, and would last me a lifetime.

I am so glad I made the choice to go with laser hair removal. I have had a full set of treatments on my underarms, two on my bikini area, and I just started my legs. I love the results!

I posted these videos on my Instagram yesterday, and immediately got flooded with questions!

Here are a couple I wanted to answer for you guys!:

  1. Does it hurt? Its 100% tolerable. Almost like a pop of a rubber band, or pinch. It is more comfortable than waxing, and a permanent solution. Any discomfort you may feel (always depends on the person) is brief. Personally, I don’t think it hurts very much at all, but I know everyone is different.
  2. What areas have you treated? Underarms, Brazilian Bikini, and Legs.
  3. Where did you have your treatments done? A Beautiful You Medical Spa – Memphis, TN.
  4. I have dark hair, does it make it hurt worse? I have dark brown hair, and its as thick as can be, so no I don’t think it will hurt worse.
  5. Is there any downtime? No, I typically go on with my day to day activities. There are care instructions, and everyone is different and can irritate different, but its not going to be something that knocks you down for a day.
  6. How long does it take for a treatment? It depends on the size of the area, but all of the areas I have had treated were quick! Im usually in and out in under 30 minutes.
  7. How many treatments do you need? They recommend 6 treatments, and because of hormones, or hair growth you may need touch ups after that sometime down the road.
  8. Do I recommend having laser hair removal? ABSOLUTELY. If this is something you have been thinking about for a while, I say go for it!

I have been getting different treatments done at A Beautiful You Medical Spa, and if you’re looking for a great place to go, I highly recommend this med spa! Lori the owner is such a joy, and she can answer any questions you may have! Her staff is also wonderful. I have enjoyed every experience here.

I can’t wait to share more of my treatments and results with you guys!

<3 CD

For The Home

Add A Little Curb Appeal

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Add A Little Curb Appeal

DECOR DETAILS

Ribbon : Michaels Wreaths: Amazon Doormat: MacKenzie Childs Planters: Moms Choice

I have worked in real estate on the side of modeling for many years. I am constantly looking at houses and thinking “this would help curb appeal”. So, when my mom wanted to add a little pop to her door, I knew I wanted to help!

I sold my parents their house a few months ago, and let’s be honest, its gorgeous on its own, but when my mom mentioned adding a few things, I knew it would be the right move to add something to help the entry stand out.

My mom found these cotton wreaths for an extremely reasonable price on Amazon. I always worry about quality when I order things online, and they’re “reasonable”, but these turned out to be fabulous.

Because my parents doors are on the taller side, I wanted to find the right ribbon that would add a pop of color to the wreaths, but also look good hanging at a long length. We went with a teal/green color ribbon with a gold polka dot pattern on it. We also went with a thicker ribbon for a sturdier feel and look. You can really choose any ribbon of your liking with these wreaths!

Michael’s has become a recent go to of mine. Their selection of faux floral, and ribbon is unreal! My mom and I have started To Dye For Creations, where we make hand-made wreaths, and other home decor, and I find the best products to use on our projects at Michaels.

For a doormat, we went with an all time favorite brand of ours, Mackenzie-Childs. We are never short of a Courtly Check pattern in our homes. This plush doormat is high in quality, super thick and durable, and has a neutral look that goes with anything. It’s definitely a piece that will last, and withstand weather and foot traffic.

My moms planters and greenery are just something she put together herself! That’s what I love about planters, you can add greenery or flowers that bring out your own taste, and switch them up as much as you’d like! Your home is always a reflection of you, and its important to add in the things you love, and love coming home to!

I just recently decided to add a “home” section to my blog. Decorating has always been a huge love of mine, and as my mom and I start on our creative adventure, I wanted to be able to share it all with you guys!

<3 CD

 

Fashion

Festival Vibes ✌🏼

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Festival Vibes ✌🏼

OUTFIT DETAILS

Romper: 6 Shore Road Duster: Darby Johns Designs (Couture) Sunglasses: Maho Shades Earrings : Indigo Bag: Bedstu (similar) Bracelets: David Yurman Shoes: Koolaburra

It’s festival season!! With Coachella, Stagecoach, Hangout Fest, Beale Street Music Festival, Bonnaroo, Country 500, and all of the others, that have either come and gone, or are in sight, girls are pulling out their best festival attire!

When I found out I would be going to some of the festivals myself, I knew I needed my long time friend to make me couture pieces for the events! Darby Johns Designs came in for the win with this couture duster she designed for me (along with other pieces you’ll be seeing in future posts!). The fabric is unbeatable, you have to see it in person to see the detailing, and I can tell you, its unreal! She also added a little flare with the multicolor fabric lining and tie detail!

My romper is one of my favorite brands, 6 Shore Road. This linen romper is perfect for a hot day! The light fabric will keep you feeling the breeze! This romper is currently on sale, and I recommend snagging it while you can!

For accessories I went with these super fun tassel earrings that I picked up at Indigo, in Germantown, TN (they ship). Definitely one of my favorite go to stores to snag fab finds! The shades, of course are Maho Shades, light weight, comfortable, one of my go to brands for sunglasses. Whats also great about the brand is they are SUPER reasonable in price. For bracelets I layered all Yurman. I do this quite often. My Yurman pieces are strong, and last a lifetime. I love the classic look, and the fact I can layer all different Yurman pieces from any of his collections. My fringe sandal booties are Koolaburra, the brand actually discontinued these, and went in a different style direction, but google them! You can find them on eBay. Last, but not least, my Bedstu cowhide fringe bag adds some pop to this look!

(Can you tell I love fringe?)

I LOVE this look! These really are some of my favorite pieces, and I love the “festival vibe”!

<3 CD

Fashion

For Mom, With Love ❤️

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For Mom, With Love ❤️

OUTFIT DETAILS

Jewelry: Gorjana

My mother is my rock, my world, my strength, my heart, and my best friend. Every day I am reminded how incredibly blessed I am to call her mom. When I found out that Gorjana was doing a Mothers Day Gift Guide, I knew I wanted to get something for my mom!

My mom is wearing the Quinn Large Earrings from Gorjana’s Mother’s Day guide, and she loves them!! She is always wearing classic black looks, and loves the pop of gold! You really can’t go wrong with a strong hoop.

I stuck with my gold statement ring, and bracelet, with a turquoise pop. I am constantly wearing Gorjana pieces, because they are dainty, but pack power and add something extra to my looks!

To be able to share one of my favorite brands with my mom was such a joy for me! She is incredibly hard to shop for, so when I actually find something she loves, its a huge win! I definitely won with these Gorjana earrings.

<3 CD

To my mom: Thank you for being everything that you are. I don’t know what I would do without you. Happy Mother’s Day! I hope that one day I can be at least half as good of a mother as you are. I love you.

ALL, Food, Recipies

Sweet Berries and Pound Cake

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Sweet Berries and Pound Cake

I have the biggest sweet tooth!! Last night I decided to whip up some fresh sweet berries and pound cake! This is one of my favorite desserts. It is light and fresh, and its a great spring/summer time treat! I add a scoop or two of ice cream, but you can also add whip cream or just go big and add both!

Recipe below

<3

CD

 

Print

Sweet Berries and Pound Cake

Course Dessert
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings 8
Author christenash

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • .5 tsp salt
  • 1 cup butter softened at room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar plus 1/3 cup
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice plus 1/3 cup

Sweet Berries

  • 2 cups strawberries
  • 1 cup blackberries
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1 cup sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 6-cup loaf pan and line it with parchment or waxed paper. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

    In a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), cream the butter. Add 1 cup of the sugar and mix. With the mixer running at low speed, add the eggs one at a time. Add the vanilla.

    Working in alternating batches, and mixing after each addition, add the dry ingredients and 1/4 cup of the lemon juice to the butter mixture. Mix until just smooth.

    Pour into the prepared pan and bake until raised in the center and a tester inserted into the center comes out dry and almost clean (a few crumbs are OK), 65 to 75 minutes.

    Meanwhile, make the glaze: In a small bowl, stir together the remaining 1/3 cup sugar and the remaining 1/3 cup lemon juice until the sugar is dissolved.

    When the cake is done, let cool in the pan 15 minutes (it will still be warm). Run a knife around the sides of the pan. Set a wire rack on a sheet pan with sides (to catch the glaze) and turn the cake out onto the rack. Peel off the waxed paper.

    Using a pastry brush, spread glaze all over the top and sides of the cake and let soak in. Repeat until the entire glaze is used up, including any glaze that has dripped through onto the sheet pan. Let cool at room temperature or, wrapped in plastic wrap, in the refrigerator (Well wrapped, the cake will last up to a week). Serve at room temperature, in thin slices.

Sweet Berries

  1. Rinse all fresh fruit. Add blueberries and blackberries into a large bowl. Cut strawberries into halves and add to bowl. Fold in sugar to mix. Stir every hour until juice forms. Add to the top of the pound cake, and serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or both! 

ALL, Fashion

Keeping it Casual

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Keeping it Casual

OUTFIT DETAILS

Top: Bozwell and Lily Shorts: 7 for all Mankind Sunglasses: Maho Shades Bracelets: Gorjana Necklace: Necklace Sneakers: Converse

On a normal day, I like to keep it casual! I am a huge fan of throwing on my favorite tee, jeans, and some sneakers, and heading out to get things done! This look was perfect for my morning downtown, having coffee on the rooftop, with two of my favorite people.

This Bozwell and Lily tee is one of my favorites! Not only is it SUPER soft, it also reps my city! If you’re a fan of the 901 be sure to check out their merch.

These 7 for all mankind high waisted shorts are my new love! I am such a fan of high waisted right now. You can wear a crop, tuck in a tee, or even wear a bodysuit with them. These are a staple in my wardrobe. I also have them in black denim!

The accessories are what make this outfit fun!

My Gorjana pieces add color and pop to this casual set. The Palisades Versatile Necklace is adjustable and can go long, mid length, short, or even choker, whatever fits your look. Also I love to #LiveLoveLayer with this Gypset bracelet set. I also added the Palisades Adjustable Bracelet for an extra layer.

Another brand you are going to start seeing a lot from me is Maho Shades. These sunnies are SO FUN, and they have a great price point! I am loving their Marble color. Its a white and black marble look, that they make in multiple shade styles. Its a fun look that matches most everything!

Its my favorite thing to be comfortable, cute, and to keep things casual! I am constantly on the go, running errands, having coffee dates, and just lady bossing my life, and fun outfits like this, make my busy days a little easier!

<3

CD

Fashion

A pop of turquoise!

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A pop of turquoise!

OUTFIT DETAILS

Dress: Nightcap Clothing Bag : Fendi Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell Jewelry: Gorjana

Ive been so busy working lately, I have barely had time to blog! I knew my first post back needed to be something “To Dye For” and when I came across the Gorjana Palisades collection, I immediately fell in love. There is a place in my heart for gold and turquoise! This collection puts together the right pop of color for any outfit! My ring is the Palisades Statement Turquoise ring and my earrings are the Palisades Drop Hoops! (They also come in colors such as labradorite, black onyx, and rhodonite!)  Gorjana has become a staple brand for me. I love their look, and the quality of their pieces!

My dress is Nightcap Clothing. When I walked into Tootsies in Dallas, TX and saw this dress, I knew it was for me. The material is extremely soft, and fits the body like a glove. This is a great spring/summer dress. The sleeves can keep you warm on a chillier day, but also the perforated material can keep you cool on a warmer day. Its really a top buy! I can’t wait to continue to wear this throughout the seasons.

What I love about a white dress is you can do up your accessories! This Fendi runway bag adds a fun look to the outfit, mixed with lace up booties and Gorjana turquoise pieces, its a killer combo! I think adding a little pattern and color to a white or black dress is always a good idea.

I am so excited to get into the spring season and share more looks, travel, and food with you soon!

<3 CD