Art In Freeplay
March 11, 2010
I had a wonderful surprise this afternoon that I absolutely must share with you! The following comes from an entry of Dustin Groeneman’s site, Freeplay, displaying his works of visual art.
When I was first introduced to Dustin through facebook, I knew he was a cool guy. I knew this because he promised not to clutter my wall with quizzes or requests for me to “become a fan of bacon” (after all isn’t it understood, kinda like butter?) and had been following the blog.
Then, when you see his art you realize he is a cool guy with a lot of talent.
I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of his work, and look forward to seeing all the great images he continues to produce. Thank you, Dustin! If you haven’t seen his work before, then you will definitely want to take a look at his page at: http://freeplay.tumblr.com
He also has some entertaining notes on there that are quite enjoyable; you’ll definitely want to follow up for more.
A Night Of Wonderland At The Theatre
January 22, 2010
I must first begin this entry by stating how lucky and grateful I am. My hunny is the most amazing man in the world, and always filled with surprises. Last night was not only a treat but also a complete surprise!
I had no idea of the plans he made. Only as we were leaving for a cigar event did he mention I should consider a nice dress since we “may have other places to be” this evening. Wow, I love this man. So without the slightest idea of what would be going on, I dressed up in a favorite of mine: a floral pink dress from BCBG. I paired the dress with my suede GIVENCHY shoes of the same color, put on some pearls and I was ready to go.
We attended a lovely cigar event, socialized and enjoyed our time until suddenly it was apparently time to leave. We left the event early and made our way into town. At this point I still didn’t have the slightest idea where we were going, and I loved that. I didn’t want to even try to guess, I was just enjoying the experience. There’s nothing like the feeling of siting back, relaxing, and just observing every moment as you make the journey to what you know will be a great and welcoming surprise. You know it will be good, you just don’t know what it will be.
Finally we parked and walked our way through downtown. Again, still at this point I haven’t an answer to our evening, just that it is a fabulous one. We make our way to the steps of the theatre and I see the banner posted above, “Wonderland.”
Now, if you know me by now you know that Alice In Wonderland is my all time favorite tale. I love the writings of Lewis Carroll, and I absolutely adore going out to the theatre. Ballets, operas, the symphony, plays, you name it I adore it. What a delightful surprise.
Now this isn’t the traditional story, more of a modern styled performance and take. I am very traditional but I can appreciate new perspectives and it was an entertaining night. The seats were wonderful, the performers were fantastic, and the costume design was gorgeous.
This is the first version of the production and I am very happy to have been able to see it so early. Changes are made as shows continue in later productions as they decide what works and what needs to be transformed. I didn’t even know there was a production of Wonderland being made or that it was being played in our city. My hunny made an amazing surprise for me with this, what a perfect evening! I am still tickled about it. Yay!
Best unbirthday present ever 
Another Marvelous Birthday
January 18, 2010
January 17th is my birthday, and this was a marvelous one! Growing up I have always loved dressing up and making every little simple event of the day an occasion. Even something as simple as putting things away in the house while dressed up in a gorgeous outfit is that much more fabulous.
This year I wore a favorite dress of mine, one I have posted about in the past for the same occasion, lol, and enjoyed a rather relaxed day. I don’t often wear the same dress for an occasion, but I couldn’t help myself as this dress just makes me feel fabulous and felt perfect for the day even now. Part of it is remembering the old while bringing it into the now for creating more great memories.
This year my birthday actually began with a fabulous event the evening before, which ran all the way into the beginning of my birthday- love it! So at midnight I was surrounded by friends welcoming in the grand new day. Later on, after having some sleep and getting ready for the day ahead, I was surprised by my hunny with these BEAUTIFUL flowers you see pictured below. I love them!
And for lunch- burgers, in a beautiful dress. Seriously, messy comfort food (delicious by the way) in an elaborate dress rocks. It just does.
After that it was time for a cigar fit for the occasion, an AVO Companero, and then a night filled with libations! Birthday cakes are overrated when you have a beautifully crafted cocktail in hand. I started with a Ramos Gin Fizz which consists of gin, egg whites, cream, lime, and orange blossom water. It couldn’t have been more perfect! Talk about a birthday drink in a glass, it was smooth and heavenly.
Since my birthday unexpectedly started with celebrations the night before, I decided to continue some of that celebration into today. After all, why not? ;D
With plans for a nice dinner in the next few days, I thought I would enjoy today with a very nice cigar; one that I find quite ideal in balance and flavor. It is what I adore in a cigar, just perfect and rounded out the occasion. Also, the band matches my nails perfectly… a stylish extra.
It’s funny how when you don’t make plans for your birthday, somehow they can just magically happen on their own. It was a day, well a few days, of relaxation and pure enjoyment. I hope your birthdays are marvelous, stylish, and memorable ones, too! I know I am feeling very grateful and blessed.
For me, a great birthday comes from being with those you love while treating yourself to the luxuries you enjoy most in life, which for me means dressing up, enjoying a fine meal, a special drink, and a great cigar. What are the must-do luxuries for you?
I ♥ Your Blog!
November 25, 2009
Thank you to the always pretty&fabulous Danelle of Houston Living blog for thinking of me in this wonderful award. You are a darling, thank you so much!
There are many great blogs to discover- both the established and the newly created ones. The rules of this award are to include the person who presented you the award, with a link to their blog, and to then continue the gesture towards 15 other blogs you’ve newly discovered.
It is the newly discovered portion that catches my eye and I think is a marvelous idea.
Be sure that if you receive this award and chose to continue the gesture and pass it along that you contact the bloggers so they are aware. I’m sure they will be delighted to hear from you!
In no particular order, here are 15 newly discovered blogs that I love:
Ballet News: Cupcakes & Conversations
and technically not a blog but wanted to include it anyway for fabulous style:
The Fashion Creations of Olivier Blanc
Love In Film Squared, By Tracy Tesmer Photography
November 18, 2009
I’m so excited to share these fantastic photos with you from the always amazing Tracy Tesmer of www.tracytesmer.com! I love the look and feel of black and white film, and when she surprised me with these incredible photos- words escaped me. I love them.
So much so that I cannot keep them to myself. Working with Tracy is a great feeling, she brings so much energy and passion to a shoot that just being a part of it will bring you lasting memories. And in photos you can share with your loved ones.
Timothy and I had a fun session with her playing around with her newest toy, a Mamiya c330. I say new but this is an old style camera that is purely mechanical and manual, letting her show off her best work. A session with Tracy is much more than an addition to the photo album, it locks in time and memory to forever be looked upon with admiration.
Just check out her blog for viewings into her latest sessions- each one has a life of its own and always brings a smile to my face. All of her photos leave strong lasting, impressions. Thank you, Tracy, for having us play a part in them!
Where Have I Been? Stranded…
September 28, 2009
Well just a bit- last week I was in Honduras visting the tobacco fields and fabrica of Rocky Patel. What an adventure and incredible time it was, too- wow! Great hospitality from wonderful people, not to mention the endless cigars, rum, beer, and food all while sitting by the pool. Very relaxing and luxurious.
Only thing was that the Honduras ex President, Zelaya, returned and caused some political difficulties. Zelaya had attempted to rewrite the constitution and declare himself dictator, but the Honduras people refused to allow it and had him leave. Chavez, along with some others, would like to see this dictatorship go through (and eliminate the people’s choice of elections).. and so when Zelaya returned to Honduras during our stay, the airport was closed along with the borders to prevent outside interference to aid Zelaya in his ideals.
At all times we were safe and the Hondurans are a great people. Once the airports opened all airlines from America were selecting to not fly in or out, which left us stranded. We were able to travel to Nicaragua and visit Esteli for a day or so and visit friends until leaving out of Managua the next day. I cannot thank everyone from Rocky Patel enough for all that they did- they took care of us up and beyond, and continued their hospitality with food, rum, and cigars for those unexpected extra days and made certain that we returned home safely. There was never a worry, as they made us feel very well at home.
All in all it was an incredible visit- and one I would repeat in a heartbeat! We had such a wonderful time and learned so much, it was an incredible experience. I’ll be posting videos and photos soon on my Smoking Hot Cigar Chick blog for those interested- I may post some here as well but the meat of it will all be there, so be sure to check in. I have lots of fashion updates to fill you in with as well- right now I am getting things back in order but the updates will be up shortly.
I’ll be speaking with you soon!
Sneak Peak: Elegant Gown & Photo Shoot w/Tracy Tesmer
August 30, 2009
This afternoon I had the pleasure of shooting with the amazing Tracy Tesmer of Tracy Tesmer Photography, I love this lady!
And we decided to select an elegant gown for the occasion. This dress is always fun- silky in texture and just moves so beautifully (we will have to wait to see the other photos return from the lab since they were taken in medium format). Just wait till those photos are released- they will give you a greater look into the dress and even more of the perspective from Tracy’s talent.
This dress is just so rich, and the lighting is to die for. The details on my golden clutch is just so dreamy, too. Yum!
I never can remember where I originally found this dress- it was one of those unexpected finds in a boutique, that I do remember. It was on clearance and buried, nearly forgotten. A small fragment of the dress stuck out and caught my eye. I knew I had to have it. Such a perfect design, and a very lucky find.
The brand, I have no idea. It had no name, perhaps why it was buried in a clearance section to begin with. But a dress this elegant doesn’t need one. It speaks for itself.
More photos to come soon… so keep checking in ;D
New Video: It’s Time To Make Your Voice Heard!
June 3, 2009
I’m doing something a little different today with a video post-it’s time for you to make your voice heard, too. I want to hear from you and listen to what you want see.
The topic- even the genre, is completely up to you. Who knows, I may have to create a new section just for you; we’ll see what we come up with! Whether you want more from a specific category or style, or you want some insight in a different category altogether. The door is open for you to make your voice heard right now.
Comment below and let your opinions be known!
xx
PS you can also contact me from either twitter or facebook, speak with you soon.
Sneak Peak Into Style:
June 2, 2009
Alright, I normally wouldn’t do this but I am so excited I cannot help it! I was doing some shopping late last night and when I found these gems, I had to order them right away. My last purchase from this place completely impressed me and was beyond my expectations, so I am especially excited about this one!
First, I am only going to give you a glimpse of the shoes, this is my first shoe purchase with them and I will give you the honest details once they arrive. But check out these killer heels- haute.
I am in love with them already, and they were just what I was looking for. Everything about these killer heels is perfect and will definitely bring a bold and stylish statement to any outfit- any. Oh, I cannot wait to play with them!
Next! What actually brought me to browsing through the styles last night was this next selection. I love versatility in an item and seek it out in my wardrobe. Remember my vest on top of a vest? This next look is open to so many options it will be reinvented over and over again. Just look and see here below.
This dress is from Adela and is also found on YesStyle, along with all the selections featured in this post. I already have one dress from the Adela line and it is absolutely adorable, chic, and elegant. I’ll be showing it to you soon, too. What I remember especially about them is how beautiful the fabric was, it was nicely designed and very comfortable. So when I saw this dress, the smocked convertible chiffon pictured above, I was very excited.
It looks like a simple and elegant dress, right? But it doesn’t stop there, it is actually listed as a “skirt” and here is why:
See the double strand on the black dress- when it is left as a single long strand it becomes a very fashionable skirt, perfect for layers. Now, I wouldn’t wear it with a print t-shirt as pictured on the right, but I like the possibilities open- for instance maybe a button up short sleeve puffed shirt. I *do* very much like the flowy blouse with a matching vest though. What a sleek and simple look.
The dress, or “Smocked Convertible Chiffon Skirt”, comes in four colors to chose from, I chose the beige/cream one because I think I’ll personally get more use out of it. (I have so many black dresses as is, I think this color will stand out more in my closet with more variations to mix with).
Alright, these are my latest purchases that I am so excited about I had to tell you about them before they even arrive. You can be sure there will be a follow up post when they do! I’m feeling very confident about these gems.
All of these styles are from here if you would like to take a look for yourself- there is literally something for everyone. I love it. Also, you cannot beat the price.
I’m back, Loves!
April 27, 2009
For those of you who follow me on twitter, too- you’ve probably noticed my tweets have been very quiet lately! I have been traveling (with a bit more coming up soon as well) however, where I was my phone had no reception during the entire trip!
I entertained myself with the company of some amazing friends and had an incredible time- we also did a bit of shopping and WOW do I ever have some killer posts coming up. I am so excited, some of these items I still can’t even believe are real… seriously insane finds (including a vintage 1920’s wedding dress!).
But more on that later! I have some fun items coming up, and just wanted to let you all in on what has been happening. I’ll be posting first thing tomorrow- see you then!
xx
Happy Anniversary Pretty & Fabulous! Wow,
April 17, 2009
Wow, has it truly been a year already? It was around this day one year ago that it all began- Pretty and Fabulous! Wine, shoes, accessories, dresses, hairstyles, food, and even heavenly beers- it all started then.
I am delighted to bring new inspirations and ideas as well as lovely tastes to indulge in, but today I am going to reflect in some of the posts of the past and let you indulge as well.
What are your favorite posts? What are your favorite styles of posts?
Talk to me, and let me know what you love the most. I love hearing from you as you are a part of this place, too!
Be speaking with you soon, loves. xx
Doing What You Love & A Little Red Swing
February 23, 2009
It was such a gorgeous Sunday, yesterday- the sun was perfect throughout the entire day and there was a delightful cool wind dancing along. A perfect day to do what you love.
And do what I love- I did; with some wonderful people and the assistance of a little red swing.
The things you love and want always seem to turn up at just the right times, and they are always such a welcoming delight. As was this case with this particularly pretty Sunday. While going about my everyday routines, it is always interesting how paths cross and people and opportunities rise up in the most enjoyable instances. Social networking places like twitter and facebook especially keep things in motion.
My path was fortunate enough to cross an amazing photographer known well by her adorable calling- “three heart photo.” The moment we met and I looked at her work I was excited, it just came about so perfectly.
And so yesterday we played around with a test shoot- I love shoots, the energy, the creativity, the feel- it is something I love being a part of. Tracy of Three Heart Photo is an incredible talent and a delight to shoot with. You can feel her passion in the photos she produces, and I am honored to be a part of them.
The little red swing at the Menil made for great location and lovely Sunday afternoon. And the cool thing was that she had Marc of Click.Wind.Repeat assist her for the day, another very talented photographer I was grateful to meet. He had just gotten this too cool of a camera which he brought along for the shoot, and sneaked in a couple shots to play with. Love it!
Do what you love, and more will come up to you- even when you least expect it. That is the beauty of being fabulous each and every day.
