What I've been up to in insta...

Is it already September? I swear it was just the 4th of July and then I woke up and it was September.  It's that time of year, fall has fallen upon us.  But, it doesn't quite feel like it here in Nashville...yet.  I've been on a few work trips, a few fun trips {Helloooo, PUNTA CANA!}, and had a few visitors.  Oh yeah, and one of my best friends got married!  Here is my life in insta- over the last several weeks.  I'm promising to blog at least once a week the next few months.  Oh and the photos aren't in order...but um...these people are amaze!!!! :) LOVE.

BIRFDAY DRESS

I was perusing the lovely Style Me Swanky blog and saw this gorgeous number and decided it would be my birthday dress!  The birthday is approaching, and although it is a number that far to close to thirty, I am grateful for the many experiences I've had thus far in my life, and people I've come to meet.  I've thoroughly enjoyed my twenties and want to soak up every last minute.  Nashville has been so kind to me and I cannot wait to spend a Friday evening with the people I love.

How should I accessorize?  I was thinking some bold earrings would be perfect and wearing the hair up.  I going to see my favorite stylist, beauty consultant, and health and vitamin extraordinare, Jana Hilton at Shine Salon.  She, and the salon are the absolute best.  She just knows how to create a beautiful, natural look - and layers my hair perfectly.   They also always have a soda pop, or glass vino ready and waiting for you.  

Under le Sea....*I just booked a trip to Punta Cana

Just a little Timeflies on this Tuesday.  I grew up a total water baby, loving the ocean and sand.  Brown Eyed girl reminds me of the Bahamas and time spent learning to love music with my dad.   I also LOVE the little mermaid and wittle sebastian.  Insert "Kiss the Girl."  Okey, so I really love this song below.  Annnnnnnnd I just booked a trip to Punta Cana with one of my best friends!!  So Tuesday will officially be designated as tropical music day.  August will be here before we know it, in the mean time...I am looking forward to knocking out tons of marketing programs so I can rest and relax....I can't wait to turn my email OFF for an entire week.

Quote of the day..

I admit, sometimes, justifying budget, metrics, quantifying everything I do is HARD WORK. But when you're able to show you're results, and prove yourself.  It's worth it.  Just a little Monday motivation.

baking brunch edition: eggs in ham cup

Sometimes I like to cook.  And this recipe is a total brunch crowd pleaser.  My instagram and FB posts gets lots of love and my guests are always pleased.  Its simpler than an omelette or poached egg (2 other favorites of mine).  You can really throw in whatever you like.  I like plain with some parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and arugula or marche rosettes for a little flavor and presentation.

I added some fresh Farmers Market strawberry's and local strawberry jam.

1. Preheat oven to: 390 (uhhh don't ask how I found this out, but works perfectly)
2. Oil/Butter your ramekim reallllly good.  its a gonna be a nightmare cleaning these suckers if you forget this step. (side note - you need ramekins if you don't have them)

2. Cover your ramekin in thinly sliced ham (do not use shaved ham).  I usually use 2 - 3 pieces of ham per ramekin.

3. Drop an egg or two into the ham cup, whatever tickets your fancy

4.  Throw in whatever you want. This is where I insert some cherry tomatoes, onions, bacon, salt, pepps, etc.

Voila - set the timer to 15 minutes, you might need more or less time depending on your oven, just watch the ham closely - I tend to often burn the top

LBB {Little. Black. Bikini}

After a small, and important instagram vote-off.  I invested in this little number for the summer.  A few of my very good friends have a roof-top pool.  And I am planning a tropical getaway with the girls to Dominican, St. Lucia, or somewhere with coconuts you can drink out of and funny little umbrellas that fit in  your drink ;) 

If you ladies have any recommendations of a destination, let me know.  We're looking for a good 5 to 6-day getaway. 

Anything Could Happen...

Sadly, I am selling two tickets to Ellie Goulding at the Ryman for wayyyyy cheap! Message me if you want them.

Monday, May 20th. 

Happy Monday!

No one's gonna love you...

And no one is ever gonna love you more than I do
No one's gonna love you more than I do

But someone, 
They could have warned you
When things start splitting at the seams and now
The whole thing's tumbling down
Things start splitting at the seams and now
If things start splitting at the seams and now, 
It's tumbling down
Hard.

And anything to make you smile
You are the ever-living ghost of what once was
I never want to hear you say
That you'd be better off
Or you liked it that way

I see these guys SO soon!!!!!!!!!!

Perfect gift for MOM.

My mom reads this blog, so she will probably have a clue as to what she is getting for mother's day after reading this, but I just had to share.  I saw this pillow in an email.  My mom and I have developed a little inside joke as to who can say "no, I love you more" last.  I just love this pillow. Perfect gift for her and for mother's day.

Love You More Pillow from PAPER SOURCE.

Definitely, Robusto!

I walked into Whole Foods and will not forget the lady giving samples.  I tried the cheese she was giving samples of (which was amaze!!) and then asked her what she recommended with a crisp riesling.  To which she replied which enthusiasm "Definitely, ROBUSTO!" I loved her quick reply and confidence.  To this day...robusto if my favorite wine + cheese snack ever.

You should definitely. Try. Robusto. 

Dear West Elm, you suck!

I went into West Elm tonight with every intention of spending $800 - $1200 on a chair and/or a small couch.  I observed the couch and chair that I've researched online the last two weeks. To be specific the Bliss Down-Filled Sofa.

After observing and casually waiting for 5 minutes, I decided to browse.  I need a few other house accessories. So I went over to the Dining + Kitchen area.  In hopes I would also run into a sales person asking if I needed help. WHY YES I DO I WANT TO SPEND $1K.  Easy sale.  

Instead I walked around the store not finding anyone.  After this.  I decided to go on a mission to find a sales person.  There was one person helping another customer (understandable). And 3 behind the register.  They completely ignored me until I walked up to the register and stood there.  A gentlemen was counting the register and irritatingly looks up and says "Hi, how can I help you" in the not-so-nice I'd rather not help you but you're here in my face kind of way.  I told him I was interested in the couch and wanted to confirm the price and stock, instead of attempting to help me, he tried to point.  Across the store.  Diagonally. Which I find most frustrating in stores, esp when you're trying to make a purchase.  He wasn't able to identify it.  So he rolled his eyes and looked at the lady behind him and she said "I'll put this away, you go."  Both unfriendly.  Both unhelpful.  Both annoyed a customer is asking for help.  Go figure.  I've worked in retail in a prior life - aka - college, to know and remember you have designated areas, register, entry.  But when a customer needs help.  You suck it up and help them.

Moral of the story.  Care about your customers.  Nurture them.  And don't suck. 

I am SO disappointed with West Elm's miserable customer service! I was an easy sale.  Ready. I already had my mind. MADE. up.  After he walked me over he told me the price and walked away.  As did I.  I refuse to give a business my money, when they are not appreciative. 

Dear West Elm, you suck! 

Katherine's Bachelorette in Charleston: #hashtagweekend:

I've finally found time to post a short and sweet, and yes concise post on the beautiful, Katherine's bachelorette weekend! Girls near and far all traveled and met in Charleston, South Carolina mid-March for a....Legen....(wait for it).....DARY...weekend spent in Folly Beach.  The weekend was near perfect (insert Zach Brown Band song) and it made miss my friends, and most importantly the bride so much.  Even being only 3 hours,  it is still sometimes difficult to see each other often.  It was a wonderful weekend.  Girls came from Lexington, Nashville (:), Chicago, and Charleston to enjoy each other and of course...Katherine!!  Katherine is one of my truest, and best friends I've even encountered.   Someone I can tell anything to, will be there for any- and everything, and one of the most strong, smart, solid and genuine friends I have.  I am so lucky to have her and don't know what'd I would do without her, so of course I am ecstatic to see her marry a man that I know will be the most amazing husband in the world.  They are perfect for one another without a doubt.  Both smart, witty, silly, stubborn, but also both sensible and love each other unconditionally.  Ben and Katherine - if you see this.  I love you both and am so excited and honored to be a part of your life, story, and big day!

Now.....without further adieu.  The weekend in photos :) 

Le Bride..so beautiful!

The amazing house.

Having fun at dinner at The Social Restaurant and Wine Bar. 

The lingerie shower!  Poms are from The PomPom Shop on Etsy. 

The beautiful bride at her lingerie shower.  Sash a la Bella Lilly via Etsy. 

One of my favorite parts of the night and evening?  Pins for the bride, maid of honor, and bridesmaids, and bottle opening corks (Drink, Drank, Drunk)...some of the girls even sent me texts, they are still using their bottle cap removers. I love it! Can be found via Etsy a la BigYellowDogDesigns.  Ashli can customize the box any way you like!! I really didn't want any "hot mess express" ones in there, and she happily exchanged for what I wanted.  

Drinks in the mason jars, were FireFly Vodka, water, garnished with lemon!  Flowers from Target. Straws from PartyPaperStraws via Etsy.  

Absolutely love this banner a la Breelyse and Co. via Etsy. 

Apparently we met Kevin Federline... :)

An *almost* completed task at the start of the night :) 

The bride actually set this up. We have the BEST bride, right?! (the lips, Cheers sign, etc. not presents - we are thoughtful at least ;)).  Also note the cards below - everyone gave Katherine advice on marriage and the big day, even the groom, dad, and brother! We didn't read these aloud, but I hope she enjoyed them! :)

I even met a cutie on the trip.  Not a bad weekend ;) 

Letting go.

This week, I am thinking about a good friend and some personal struggles.  In life, there are many types of people that come into your life...make it brighter and better and those that don't.  And that is why there are so many types of letting go.  My friend had to deal with the loss of her grandfather.  Someone irreplaceable.  I can't imagine.  And with this type of letting go, it's the you don't really want to.  The kind you always want to hang onto.  The kind that is a rite of passage, but we wish wasn't.   Then there is the type of letting go where it is necessary.  The kind you you want and need right away.  I am FINALLY. truly letting go of someone who has not served me in a positive way the last few weeks.  My kind of letting go seems so small, and silly compared to my friends.  I just hope during everyone's darkest days, that we all keep our problems relative, and remember and hang on tight to those who are important to us.

Home Decor Updates & a little quote.

Whilst browsing for a new paper towel holder, I don't want just a plain one anyone in my kitchen.  My granite counter tops are lovely, and I need something to spice up the 1980 GE microwave built into the wall :( le sigh... I found this little lovely. Why not spend $86 on a paper towel holder when it spices the kitchen up a bit..

The Modern Design Paper Towel Holder on Etsy.

Oh and follow me on Etsy! 

I also have found the newest addition to the living room, I found this on sale on West Elm.  I am heading to WE this weekend to see if its in store.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed, it looks so cozy and is the perfect size against my now bare wall and side of the living room.

The Blake Down-Filled Chaise on West Elm.

I also am waiting for this rug to become available.  It is currently out of stock.  I found it on eBay, but I have a Groupon. ugh don't you hate that.  Isn't this RUG to die for?!?!? Where it is from TBA. I need to be able to purchase it when it becomes available :) 

In other news, I have been a little disappointed in le love life.  Just someone who is so back and forth I can't keep up with them.  It is too much investment for me to feel like they care and then don't.  I've finally decided to give up... and I share this quote with anyone who might need it tonight :)

Never look back..I think I like that.

I. need. furniture.

I'm back from Charleston and I cannot wait to post on what an amazing weekend we had!! But before that, while I was out of town, my recently engaged roommate moved in with her fiancé!  I am so excited for them, but with that...comes the need for new furniture.

I need:

• New couch
• New side tables
• New floor and table lamps
• New kitchen table
• New dining room table
• New fireplace wall decor (I want a sunburst gold contemporary mirror, but inexpensive!!)
• New hallway bench

I've already found a new living room rug (Thank you, Groupon) and hallway rug (Target).  I'm very excited because this gives me the opportunity to go from a very traditional, "old South" look to a modern and shabby chic, rustic wood, contemporary look.

Y'all I am gonna go to Home Goods soon, but any recommendations on where I can find inexpensive home furniture and decor? I need to replace now, I can't stand the house looking so empty!

I'm off to Charleston...

in mañana! I can't wait to update you on the bachelorette trip!!  I've wanted to share so many details I've been planning but held off so not to spoil any surprises.  I am so excited to spend the weekend with one of my very best friends.  She is one of those people.  My person.  Who has helped me through the last 5 years of my life: highs and lows, new love, old love, relationships ending, losing my job, moving to a new city, and sooo much more.  I owe my sanity to this little lady and I cannot wait to spend her last single weekend in Charleston!

Love, you K!

I did get this little lovely this, just to wear on le trip!! :) Can't wait to show photos of how cute.  Thank you, Anthro!

Lo Mein smiled at me..

I walk down to get coffee every morning when I arrive at the office.  It's a long walk.  And I see Lo Mein in his office.  Settled.  Busy.  Working.  I can't help it.  His office is right on the hallway I walk down every morning.

I assume he is from the Hong Kong office.

Today.  I passed him and he smiled at me!  Aw.  Lo Mein smiled at me.  Glad he is happy.  And nice.

I got distracted in Nordstrom..

I was jewelry shopping with my friend Cara for a black tie wedding she's attending in a few months... Whilst browsing and accidentally asking the sales associate to show Cara a $1,500 necklace - I stumbled upon some bright, bold, and beautiful beach hats.  As you may know...I have a Charleston trip in March! So of course my eyes sparked and I was mesmereied. Then I saw her.

The Sonia Rykiel Straw Sun Hat.

And then the sales rep saw me. Fall for her.  She proceeded to come over, and ask.  Do you know this is Sonia Rykiel.  I reply with "No, no...honestly I don't even know who she is!" Okay great silly me, lost in Nordstrom.  Dreaming about the beach.  Then she asks the dreaded question.  "So what is your price point?  $600? $200?"  I quiver at the thought of spending more than $60 on a hat.  And that is for Derby.  I told her I didn't have a budget really in mind. LOL. Yes as in I don't really have a hat budget. From there, I learned the history of Sonia Rykiel.  The Queen of Knit. Created her label in Paris, France. No hems in her stitching..."would you look at that work?" Meanwhile I'm thinking, look like normal knits to me?! Mehh.....the story went oonnnnnn.  And on.

Point of Story.

Don't get lost or distracted in Nordstrom.  Don't fall in love with a $250 hat.  And certainly don't stay to hear the history of Sonia Rykiel.

Why do we spend time thinking about people that...

Worry less.  Perhaps not at all.  Its been a while for me since I've met someone I'm excited to get that text from.  To hear my phone buzz.  Talk to for a couple hours and feel like a couple minutes.  I've been lucky in the dating scene in Nashville - boys are actually men.  They ask for your number and actually call.  I recently I met a person I was genuinely excited over.  Thought, hmmm. This could go somewhere.  Went on a trip.  Had an amazing time. And now, something is off.  It seems to be to be fizzling.  It just isn't my style to pour my heart out early.  Or try to "put my heart out there." Not after having my heart broken before and knowing what its like to do that.

So my questions is! Why do we spend time thinking about people that aren't focusing on us?  Aren't paying attention or being what you initially fell for?  Aren't treating us properly?  Early on I could never express this, it just seems crazy to me to bring up so early.   I've learned to let things go.  One major life lesson I've taken away, no matter how hard it is.  Because is someone truly cares for you, they will chase you and not let you go.  This is true.  One of my best friends boyfriends simply no longer responds to sweet texts, and sometimes ignores her, treats her poorly at times, better at others.  But she's dying to marry him.  He is truly great person, but whyyyy do we accept being treated just okay?  At my friend Rebecca's wedding the priest reminded us that we should be their "best friend, their biggest cheerleader, their rock, supporter and true partner for life."  I want that.

Charleston Beach Weekend!

I've been helping coordinate the lovely Katherine's bachelorette weekend festivities.  We plan to spend a cozy weekend in Charleston in a beautiful beach house.  With this bitterly cold last week in Nashville, and then a gorgeous sunny weekend...it had me dreaming of the beach. I just received my fedora that I ordered on eBay and it is perfect.  $10 ladies!! But then I got busy browsing Nordstrom and found these lovelies...a girl can dream..

The Echo 'Graphic Ovals' Silk Scarf via Nordstrom

Adorable Thunderbird cover-up via Swell

Graham & Spencer 'Atlantis' Tiered Strapless Maxi Dress via Nordstrom

The Peekaboo Pocket Tunic via Nordstrom. The best part of this is back, I love!!

And last, this beautiful dress for our nice evening out on the town! I found this on Nordstrom but cannot for the life of me find where it is from on there...

Life isn't cereal....well, it is a cereal.

A pep talk from a Kid President! LOVE THIS. haha.

Bedroom Wall Decor.

Hello, everyone! It's Mari from Arcadian Home blog, a great place to find beautiful inspirations for home décor and lighting. From wall art to mini pendant lights and grand chandeliers, you'll discover lots of interesting ideas. I'm so excited to be visiting here at Well Actually... today to share a guest post about bedroom wall décor, specifically ideas for turning that blank space at the head of the bed into a lovely focal point. I've pulled together eight room images to inspire your bedroom decorating dreams. Please enjoy!

An elegant waterfall chandelier turned bedside lamp is stunning with this simple but elegant upholstered headboard. No other wall decor needed.

A favorite textile hung from a drapery rod is a quick and easy way to add interest at the head of the bed. This idea is limitless in its possibilities. Just be sure the fabric you choose is one that speaks to you and makes you smile.

Unframed art like this black and white cityscape is gorgeous in a contemporary or eclectic bedroom. Temporary wall murals are readily available online right now. It's easy to find one you love. From verdant green forest to ancient ruins, it's a great look. Without bedside tables, tall metal buffet lamps with tiny shades provide light and are a pretty look.

This chalkboard with personalized text and hand-drawn birds and botanicals is perfect for a vintage space with just about any color palette.

At the head of the bed, an accent wall of color works beautifully with or without a headboard. Here contemporary pattern in charcoal on a silvery background is lovely with golden-toned bedding. A mirrored sunburst is a great glam accent.

A stormy landscape mural is gorgeous in this casual loft bedroom. Tiny swing arm wall lamps are both decorative and functional as reading lights.

A dark wall behind this white tufted headboard offers the perfect spot for a framed antique print. What a beautiful and invited bedroom retreat this is.

A pale rustic bedroom gets a feminine touch with a gauzy draped canopy hung from the ceiling. Fabric canopies can be created with an elaborate complicated look like this one or in a more restrained tailored design. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 What do you think of these wall decor inspirations? Let us know in the comments, and visit our site for more home decor, lighting, and interior inspiration!