Playing Dress Up

Dress to Impress by michaelawarner90 featuring set of bangles

Grecian dress / Mina short dress / Quiz striped dress, $39 / H&M wrap dress, $31 / Coco's Fortune wrap dress, $71 / Lace cocktail dress, $24 / Floral dress, $24 / Peter pan collar dress / Flare dress, $83 / Miso set of bangle, $7.87 / Astley Clarke stacking bangle / Turquoise jewelry / Isharya gold plated jewelry / Plastic jewelry

Everyone knows I'm sort of obsessed with dresses. I wear one almost every day!  It started at a very young age. My mom says I would change clothes multiple times a day...just for fun! If I could, I'd import all of the above into my closet.  I love the colors and simple silhouettes.  Which one is your favorite??
Oh, sweet summer, please never end so I can continue to wear my beloved dresses forever and ever :)


Speaking of dresses, don't forget to enter the Kiki La Rue giveaway for $50 to the shop!
Enjoy your Tuesday!
Love,

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Kiki La'Rue $50 Giveaway!

I'm so excited today. WHY?! Because I'm hosting an awesome giveaway from one of the cutest online boutique, Kiki La'Rue.  Becca is the owner of the boutique, and she's giving away a
$50 shop credit
One lucky reader gets a little shopping spree :) Read on to learn how to enter! The dress I'm sporting was one of my favorites from her shop- the American Honey dress. {there are 2 larges left online}

Some of my other favorite looks in the shop:

Here's how to enter {please be a follower of MND}:
- Visit Kiki La'Rue and comment on this post telling me what YOU would buy with your $50!

Extra Entries {please leave a separate comment for each extra entry completed so you can be entered in the giveaway the correct amount of times}:
- Tweet about the giveaway {Example tweet: Visit @michaela_noelle & enter to win a $50 shop credit to Kiki La Rue! www.michaelanoelledesigns.com}
-"Like" Kiki La'Rue on Facebook.
-Pin one of the above photos on Pinterest with the caption directing viewers to this giveaway!

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That's all....Good luck & happy Monday!
Giveaway will end this Saturday night and be announced on my Facebook page on Sunday, August 5th.

Love,

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Friday's Letters

Shannon and I on our blog date a few weeks ago:)

Dear mint jeans and pink peplum top, you look real cute together in the picture above. I just love pink and mint! Dear Shannon, I'm so glad we met a few weeks ago. You're probably the cutest person I know {with the most fab wardrobe}. Oh, and I'm so excited to go with you to the Kate Spade NY grand opening tonight! :)  Dear new chunky hot pink bauble necklace, I'm pretty excited about the fact that I found you for $18. SCORE.  {similar necklace} Dear curtain fabric, you shipped yesterday and you couldn't get here faster! You are the icing on the cake {of my room, that is}.  Dear Hope, sometimes I think there's a human stuck inside you. When you chase after the hose and get about 6' of air, stick your nose in your water bowl to blow bubbles, and ring your bell to go outside just to get some fresh air-- I mean, come on. You melt my heart even if you're kind of a mess sometimes.  Dear brother, you leave for college in 3 weeks. I'm not understanding where the time has gone. Wasn't it just yesterday that we were playing hide and go seek?? Texas is lucky to be gaining a guy like you.  Dear Ashley, you moved away yesterday and we cried in the parking lot together. I'm sorry...I couldn't hold back the tears. Thank you, blogging, for bringing us together. Such a special friendship, indeed. Michigan is one lucky state to be getting you back!  
Dear weekend, I'm glad to see you again! A little work, a walk-a-thon to raise money for a friend in need, and probably a manicure. Sounds great to me :)
Dear readers, my new sassy friend Shannon {who's pictured above!} blogs over at GBO Fashion.  Today she's crushin' on my style in her "Style Crush" series. Go check it out and stay a while-- she's the most hilarious person I've ever met. 


I'm linking up with Ashley for Friday's Letters

What are YOU doing this weekend? Make it the best!

Love,

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Client E-Design: Neutrals, Navy & Pink

I recently finished up another e-design for a sweet client of mine. Kyra lives in her new Boston condo and let me tell you- it's adorable. We worked on bringing some color, pattern and interest into her living room. Here's what I came up with:

I started with some base neutrals, because Kyra prefers neutrals with pops of color:

I made a separate board for her with two color choice; coral and turquoise or navy and pink.

She went with the navy and pink and I couldn't be more excited to see it all in the room. Such a beautiful and classic color combination. There's also going to be a killer gallery wall in there displaying her photography and favorite theatre memorabilia.

What do you think about the design? I'm sure I'll have some updates for you soon :) 

If you're interested in my e-design services I'd love to talk with you! Please email me at michaelawarner90@gmail.com to inquire about packages and pricing. Spots are going quickly, but I'd love to get you on my schedule.

Have a lovely Thursday! 

Love,

PS. I have two sponsor spots left for the month of August and would love to have you! All spots are 40% off :)

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She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: Link Party #5

This Wednesday I'm sharing with you MY loves and love-me-nots. It's always fun to pop in once a month and do my own rendition, and of course open it up for you to participate, too! Go ahead and write your own She Loves Me post and link up below :)


She Loves Me:


1. Kate Spade New York. I mean really, she single-handedly made color blocking and bright colors the it thing.  I can't wait to go to the San Jose, CA store grand opening this Friday!

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2.  Smoothies.  I know how important it is to get enough fruits and veggies, and one of my favorite ways to be sure to get them in everyday is to make a delicious smoothie. SUCH a great addition to my breakfast.

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3. This tastefully, colorful living room. The gallery wall is so sweet.

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4. Our doggy. Although she's still hyper, she sure is a huge joy in our lives. And she's doing SO well with people. We took her to Carmel on Monday and everyone loved her!

5. Saturated Colors.

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She Loves Me Not:
1. Saying goodbye :( Ashley has become such a sweet and close friend of mine over the last few months. God placed her in my life at just the right time. I've had so much fun with her and I'm so thankful we were able to make memories and go on many adventures together. She and her husband are moving on Friday and let's just say I'm going to be one very sad girl!

2. Loving every single thing I saw in Nordstrom today and coming to the sad realization that I just don't have enough in my wallet to buy it all. We always want it all, huh ladies? Oh well-- window shopping it is!

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What about YOU? What are you loving this Wednesday?  Tell me in the comments or link up below. I always visit all the links :) Be sure to link back to this post so others can join in the fun.


Happy Wednesday!
Love,

17

Design Tips for Everyone

In the world of design, there are many things that go unsaid, or un-blogged.  Today I'm sharing a few tips and tricks with you that will hopefully help you in the department of designing/decorating your home.  I've done a few illustrations with some pointers written out and hope they help! Please add tips of your own {or ask more questions...maybe I'll do a part two} in the comments if you have any you'd like to share!

In addition to these tips, I know a lot of people struggle with finding the best way to hang picture frames and art work on the wall.  I found these instructions from Apartment Therapy, and since this is exactly the process I use to hang frames, I thought I'd share their information here.  It's explained so well...better than I could have done...so here you have it:

Step By Step:

1. Measure and lightly mark 57" on the wall
2. Measure top of your picture to the middle (or take height and divide by 2)
3. Measure top of your picture to the tightened wire (a small amount)
4. Subtract this last amount to tell you how far above 57" your hook should go
5. Measure up from 57" with this last amount and lightly mark on the wall

Example:

1. Picture is 20" tall
2. Middle is 10" down from top (this should rest at 57")
3. Wire comes to 2" below the top
4. 10" - 2" = 8"
5. Lightly mark 8" above your first mark OR 65" on the wall

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So...did these help? What are some designer tips you have? Do tell...maybe we can get a dialogue going!

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Love,

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{Tutorial} French Braid Bun

I recently found a hairstyle on Pinterest that I knew I needed to recreate. We all love the top knot bun for days when nothing else seems to be working-- or just because it's the perfect, carefree hairstyle!  Today I'm adding a tiny twist {or braid, rather}.

You'll need:

Here's the How-To:

Step-by-step:
1. Tease the top of your hair a bit with a fine-tooth comb.
2. Start a braid, and add in pieces as you go {french braid the top portion of your hair}
3. Pin the braid in place.
4. Scoop the rest of your hair into a high ponytail, pulling out a few pieces on either side to make it look a little more natural.
5. Tease the ponytail so it's thick and bushy. It forms into a bun much better like this.
6. Twist your hair around the ponytail holder, creating a big top knot ballerina bun.
7. Pin bun in place and hair spray!


Ta-Da!

dress: Meadow Boutique// necklace: ExVoto

There ya have it- the french braid bun.  I love the way it adds texture and volume to the bun.  Let me know if you give it a try!
Happy Monday! I'm off to the beach today:)
Love,

PS. There are still a few sponsor spots left for August at 40% off regular prices! Get them while you can:) email me for info: michaelawarner90@gmail.com

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40% off Ad Space for August!

As a little Summer treat I'm offering 40% off all advertising packages!


Here are Michaela Noelle Designs stats:

- 50,000 Page Views per month

-Unique visitors each day and a growing number of followers each week {via GFC, Blog Lovin', & Google Reader}

-530 Facebook followers
-1650 followers on Twitter
-1100 Followers on Pinterest

Here are my sponsor packages and pricing:

Small Ad: 230x150 >>>

Your Small Ad will be placed on my right-hand sidebar for all to see and admire.
$12

Medium Ad: 230x190 >>> 

With a Medium Ad, your button will appear on my right-hand sidebar and will be rotated weekly for maximum exposure.  You will be grouped together in a group sponsor post with the rest of the medium ads, where you get to share a picture and a few sentences about yourself, your blog, or your business.
$18

Feature Ad: 230x400 >>>

A Large Ad buys you a space at the top of my right-hand sidebar and will be rotated weekly, among the other large ads.  Each large ad receives a shout out {with their image and link} in one of my weekday posts, in addition to a group sponsor post {coupled with only the 2 other large ads for maximum coverage}. In this post, you are able to share about yourself, your blog or business as well as include a picture of you and/or your products.
$25

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If you'd like to advertise your blog, business, or etsy shop, I'd love for you to advertise here on MND! Of course, I want to bring quality products, blogs and shops to my reader's attention that I think they will genuinely love, so if you think we're a good fit, email me at michaelawarner90@gmail.com
Hurry and secure your spot- there's only a few left!


I can't wait to hear from you :)
Happy weekend!

1

If You {Really} Knew Me...

image via victoria carlson photography

Today I'm jumping on a train and writing about things you'd know about me if you reallllyyy knew me.   A few other blog friends of mine have already done it, so I'm playing along today.

If you really knew me...
You'd know my favorite color is purple {oh wait, I'm sure you've figured that out by now!}


You'd know my number one dream in the whole world is to get married and have some cute little kiddos :) I've always wanted to be a mom...and I can't wait for that day. God's timing will be perfect.


You'd know I'm the pickiest eater around. I don't eat seafood, I don't really like when my food touches the other food on the plate (like sauces or syrup getting all over), bread is my favorite, I really like things plain jane, I could eat pasta all the time, I order caesar salads with ranch dressing, and clearly, I love chocolate. 


You'd know I'm pretty nervous about moving to Los Angeles this Fall and basically starting from scratch with friends, involvement, getting to know the city and the school. Of course I'm also super excited for the new adventure!


You'd know I'm a morning person and I wake up around 7-8am. I have to eat breakfast as soon as I wake up. And enjoy my morning tea :)


You'd know that I'm a horrible test-taker. I can study for hours and still score worse than someone who didn't study at all...talk about frustrating! It's okay though- I still got into a great university, I do well in my classes and even if I didn't, no one looks at college course grades once the diploma is in my hand! :)


You'd know that I definitely have moments of doubt. Will I have the business skills it takes to run my own business? Will I be able to afford to start my own company? What if this whole thing doesn't work out? .....But then I try to pep-talk myself back into a positive outlook.


You'd know I was a hot mess in middle school. {I think everyone was though...hopefully?!}


You'd know that although I love meeting people and spending time with friends, it's my alone time that really recharges my batteries. Definitely an introvert! 


I'm the messiest painter, baker, and dishes-doer.  Paint goes everywhere, flour ends up on the floor, and water notoriously gets sprayed every-which direction.


You'd know my first reaction to being nervous or breaking something is quiet laughter.


You'd know I love Jesus with all my heart. You'd also know that my life isn't always rainbows and smiles.  Life is messy and hard, but I try my best to trust in God's plan for my life.  My heart for people and design come from Him.


You'd know I love dogs. Namely our own new puppy, Hope. There's something about pups that just make me smile. Thank you Lord for dogs and other animals that are as cute as a button!


You'd know I love singing. I think I sung my first word.  I was in choir and musical theatre up until the end of high school! My favorite type of music is country music...although right now, I can't get enough of all the hip-hop and pop on the radio. So catchy.


That's it for now...
Now you tell me something about yourself in the comments!
Happy Friday:) Enjoy your weekend.
Love,

22

Work, Sneak Peek & Hot Pink Pillows

image via Rue Magazine Gallery

First of all, how lovely is this work space? I die. Speaking of work, I'll be doing lots of it today.


Today will be spent getting caught up on a bunch of to-do's! Lately I've been a busy little bee. On Monday afternoon we were knee-deep in flowers, creating bouquets for the wedding shoot I styled on Tuesday.  Monday evening my family {and the pup!} had our family photos taken. Tuesday was a fabulous day with my awesome photographer friend Ashley. We've been working together for weeks in order to get this styled wedding shoot all picture-perfect.  And boy, was it! There were so many beautiful details, flowers, jewelry, models, and hair do's. And yummy cake.  I can't wait to show you :)


Okay fine... instagram sneak peek:

instagram: @michaelanoelle

 Considering the events of the first half of the week, I'm a little bit under water and probably owe lots of emails, but I'm a-lot-a-bit excited for my to-do list.
I'm currently working on 3 e-designs. I'm putting the final touches on one today and can't wait to email it off to my client {who is seriously the sweetest ever!} It's all about neutrals with pops of color. Like these fun finds from Skoope Home Etsy Shop:

This past week of busyness has taught me a few things:

1. Writing things down on a notepad instead of my phone helps me remember it better!

2. Don't forget to rest.

3. Continue to do what I love because it brings about true joy. 

4. My chevron dresser came in handy for the styled shoot- I knew painting that thing was a good idea!

5. Always wear bandaids on my ankles when sporting new shoes.

That covers it.  Little bit of a random Thursday post, but that's my life right now! What are you up to today?

Happy day, friends :)

Love,

12

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: In the Pink and Green

Happy Wednesday, friends :) Today I'm introducing my friend Jane to you all. Jane blogs at In the Pink and Green where she writes about a little of everything. Recipes, work outs, fashion, traveling- you name it! Jane lives in Tahoe {one of my favorite places!} and always looks like a million bucks. She's also sweet as they come. Let's hear what she's loving and not loving this week...
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Hello everyone! 

 I'm Jane and I blog over at In the Pink and Green, and I'm thrilled to be here with you today! Michaela is such a sweetheart and I think this is such a fun series as I love finding out what other bloggers are loving! Speaking of which, here are some of my favorite (and not-so-favorite) things right now...


She Loves Me: 

1. Edison Lightbulbs

 I love the look of these light bulbs; they're industrial and old-fashion yet they feel so modern and warm. I'm totally using them somewhere in my house...when I have a house that is! 

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 2. Popsicles

On a hot summer night, nothing is a more refreshing treat. I picked up some popsicle molds from Whole Foods last month, and so far I've made a batch of Nutella Fudgesicles which were SO yummy. I'm excited to try more recipes before fall hits! 

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3. Blake Lively
She is one of my style icons; her hair and makeup always look flawless and I love how she takes risks with her fashion choices. She's recently been out and about promoting her new movie, Savages, and I've seriously loved every look she's worn. Plus, she claims she doesn't use a stylist which is impressive!

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 4. Peonies
My favorite flower. I had these puffy pink blooms in my wedding bouquet, and they make me smile whenever I see them. I snapped these pictures of some peonies I picked up at Trader Joe's a few weeks ago, I love how they brightened up my coffee table!

She Loves Me Not: 

1. Babies on planes

I really shouldn't be saying this because I know that eventually I'll be on the other side of this situation, but I seriously have the worst luck of getting stuck near screaming infants on airplanes. I always feel bad for the parents whose child won't stop screaming, I feel bad for the poor little baby whose ears are popping, and also bad for myself that I can't get any sleep. You know those cry rooms they have at church for parents to take their kids to when they get fussy? They should totally have those on planes.

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2.  The fact that it's already mid-July

Seriously, this summer is going by way too fast! I want to savor every last minute because I know it will be over before you know it.

If you enjoy an excessive amount of pictures of food and Lake Tahoe, then follow me on Instagram! @janemarieg

 Thanks so much for having me Michaela!xoxo, Jane {In the Pink and Green}

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Thank you, Jane! I love those lightbulbs, too. And the fact that it's mid-July already makes me crazy- how in the world does summer go by so quickly?!


Stop by and say hello to Jane today!
For those of you who play along, next week, Wednesday July 25th will be our She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not link party where you get to link up your loves and love-me-nots. Hope to see ya there!
What are you adoring this Wednesday?
Love,

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