2015 Recap + 2016 Resolutions

Oh what a year it has been! I'd have to say that 2015 was definitely one for the books. I graduated from college and received a real slap in the face from reality when I stepped out into the real world. 

This year has had some major ups and downs, but all in all, I'd have to say that it has been great. I was able to focus on my blog a lot more after graduating from college, but it's still been a struggle juggling a full time job and blogging every chance that I can get. I've tried not to let this blog consume my life, but there were times when all I wanted to do was blog and I just didn't have the time. So of course, I have some resolutions that I want to work on in 2016, but we will get to that a bit later! Lets recap on a few of my favorite memories of 2015:

Many of you may be surprised to know that I really like to fish. My boyfriend has a great love for fishing (sometimes I think he loves it more than me), so we've been on many different outings this year to catch some fish. From the ocean to mountainside rivers, we've definitely had some fun!

I was also blessed to spend some time with some good friends this year, as well as make some new friends! I was able to spend my last Spring Break island hopping with some old and new friends, attend my very last Alpha Phi formal, celebrated many birthdays, and even attend the wedding of a lifelong friend!

All in all, I'd definitely have to say that 2015 was fantastic. I would not go back and change a single thing. I was able to learn and grow, but also have fun doing it! Now let's talk about 2016 and what I would love for this year to come.

1. Don't sweat the small stuff. This is a hard one. I had this same resolution last year. I suffer from anxiety, so the small stuff is always on my mind. But this year I really want to learn to control my anxiety. I've started meditating more and find that it really does help me to not focus on the little things.

2. Be more spontaneous. I have a problem with just wanting to sleep after I get off of work. I feel like my life is just a vicious cycle of sleep, work, sleep, with an occasional blog post thrown in somewhere. I want to start doing more this year and be more spontaneous!

3. Focus more on what makes me happy. It really doesn't take much to make me happy, so this shouldn't be a hard resolution to keep. I think more cuddles (if that's even possible), spa days, and beach walks are in my 2016 future. 

4. Travel somewhere completely new. Traveling makes my heart happy - I'm hoping to make this resolution come true! Maybe a working girl's Spring Break trip is in order?

5. Open an online shop. I received a sewing machine for Christmas and although I have no earthly idea how to use it, I'm determined to learn and create a few things to sell online! I think that it will be so fun!

6. Become truly comfortable in my own skin. I am not going to go into specifics about myself, but like many other women that I know, I an so self conscious about my body. This year, I am going to be more confident and comfortable about who I am and how I look. Because let's be real y'all, we're all beautiful people!

7. Eat more wholesome meals and drink more water. This doesn't mean that I'm giving up mexican food because in all seriousness, that would never happen. But I am going to try to eat more well-rounded meals and continue to drink more water and less soda,

8. Run at least three 5K's. I ran my very first 5K in 2015 and it was awful. But I know it was only awful because I did no training and just kind of went for it. This year, I would love to train and run at least three (if not more than three)!

9. Do something totally out of my comfort zone. Blogging has really pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and be myself. I'd love to do something totally crazy and out of my comfort zone - this could be going to a yoga class (I have the worst balance in the world), walking in a charity fashion show, etc. I'm excited to see what 2016 will bring for this resolution!

10. Be a more spiritual person. I wouldn't say that I'm not a spiritual person at all. I talk to God almost every day and thank him for all of the wonderful blessings that he has placed into my life. I would love to find a good church and make Sundays something special again.

I hope you are all as excited about this new year as I am! I can't wait to see what this year holds for all aspects of my life. I know that blogging will be full force for me in 2016 and I'm ecstatic to learn and grow with this passion of mine.

Cheers to another great year! xx

Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale

I love Nordstrom. There is no doubt about it. And when they have a good sale, I just can't help myself. So I thought that I would put together a few of my favorite items from their Half Yearly Sale that they have going on until January 3rd!

1. Free People 'Drenched in Sequins' Dress - This dress is fabulous! I love that it can be dressed up or down and still look great. This would be a great NYE dress - so if ya live near a Nordstrom, hurry over and grab one before the ball drops tomorrow!

2. Leith Solid Swing Dress - Swing dresses are the perfect addition to any closet. If you're a working girl like me, these are the perfect dresses to throw on for a day at the office. I'm all for a pop of color too - so this dress is definitely a must-have!

3. Eileen Fisher 'Derby' Bootie  - Okay, so I might have a slight bootie obsession - the shoes, of course! I love this color and the style of the low heel. These shoes would be great for a low-key dinner with friends or a day of shopping!

4. Tory Burch 'Raleigh' Leather Flat - When asked if I could spend a day with anyone, I always reply with 'Tory Burch.' I think she is fabulous - I mean come on, you can't be all over Forbes and not be fabulous. I love that the Tory Burch line is really versatile and the items really are what they're priced out to be. 

5. Michael Kors 'Josephine' Wedge - Yes, I know that it's winter. But it's 79 degrees in Wilmington today and I just couldn't resist adding this wedge to the mix. I've been eyeing this wedge for quite some time now - maybe I should just treat myself today.

6. French Connection 'Naughty Brights' Sweater Dress - Although it's so unseasonably warm for December, the weather looks like it may dip down a little bit colder in these upcoming weeks. And I've been loving the sweater dress trend I've seen going on lately! French Connection is a great brand, so I have a feeling this dress will be gone fast!

7. GLAMOROUS V-Neck Sweater Dress - This sweater dress is equally as fabulous as the French Connection dress, and it comes in two colors. So pick your poison! You'll be feeling warm and looking great either way.

I know that I was missing for a few days, but I really wanted to spend some time with my family and close friends during this Holiday season. It's always good to take a little time off for yourself and just relax. I hope you all had a great Holiday and you have a wonderful New Year. 

And as always, happy shopping, friends!

Christmas Pecan Brittle

Hey there, friends! Merry Christmas Eve to ya! I wanted to pop in before I head to my boyfriend's family's place for some Christmas Eve festivities and share my favorite pecan brittle recipe with you all. This is literally the easiest recipe (seriously, you make it in the microwave) and it's so very good!

Christmas Pecan Brittle

1 1/2 cups of pecans, slightly chopped

1 cup of white granulated sugar

1/2 cup of light corn syrup

pinch of salt

1 teaspoon of butter

1 teaspoon of vanilla

1 teaspoon of baking soda

In a 9x9 bowl or casserole dish, combine the pecans, sugar and corn syrup. Cook this in the microwave on high for 2 minutes and 45 seconds (or more, depending on how high your heat is). Stir the mixture. Cook in the microwave for another 2 minutes and 45 seconds. Add vanilla and butter and stir. Then cook the mixture for 1 minute and 30 seconds. Add the baking soda and stir the mixture until foamy. Pour quickly onto a greased cookie sheet and tilt the pan until the mixture is spread evenly. Do not spread the mixture with a spoon, it will only stick to the spoon. Let the mixture cool completely and then begin breaking it into smaller pieces. 

There ya have it, friends! It's seriously that easy. As a bit of advice, just go ahead and grease the cookie sheet before starting to make the mixture. That way you're not scrambling to grease it before pouring the mixture onto it. I purchased these adorable little bags and labels off of groopdealz a month or so ago, and I'm loving how adorable they are! You can make your own labels though and buy similar bags at places like Hobby Lobby or Michaels! They make for the perfect little neighbor gift - who doesn't love a little treat?

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas Eve and an even more wonderful Christmas tomorrow! I want to leave you with one of my favorite Christmas passages:

Piko + Frye

Piko Dress | Tartan Blanket Scarf | Phillip Frye Boots

Piko brand is one of my absolute favorites. I own multiple shirts and sweaters because they pair great with anything and they're so comfortable. I decided that I could totally branch out from the shirts and grab a dress - so I snagged this black dress during Black Friday! I've said this before in past posts, but I own way too many black dresses. But the fabulous thing about this dress in particular is that I can wear it to work, out to dinner, or just to hang out. It's comfortable but looks presentable! I decided to pair this dress with a big chunky tartan blanket scarf to add that extra 'umph' to the outfit. I finished it off with my Frye boots and voila! You've got a simple yet stylish outfit. Piko sells out quickly most places during the Holiday season - but so many different boutiques sell their items. You'll be bound to find something that you like somewhere!

Happy shopping, friends!

Kate Spade 25% Off Sale

Kate Spade is magical. Not just magical, spectacular. You get a Kate Spade in your hands and you feel like you could rule the world. You own the place. You don't care what anyone thinks because you've got your Kate Spade bag, wallet, earrings... you get where I'm going? Anyways, this fabulous brand is having a 25% off of all sale items sale today. That's a sale on top of a sale. Just use the code 'THRILL' at checkout and boom - you're good to go. How great is that?! I've attached a few of my favorite items from said sale. Check them out!

Grey Street Cooper

I'm obsessing over this bucket bag. These bags are definitely in right now and the light blue one is to die for.

Colorblock Bow Gloves

Everyone needs a good pair of gloves. Extra points if they're as adorable as these!

Bow Neck Wool Coat

Seriously swooning over this coat. I've been looking for a new winter coat. A girl can definitely dream... right?

Embellished Cupcake Dress

Can't you just picture yourself in this dress at your upcoming Christmas party? I can! So hurry up before it's gone!

Ingrada Heels

I've been eyeing these heels for quite some time. I just need to give in and buy them. Ugh, if only I were done shopping for everyone else's Christmas gifts!

Friendship Spirit Charm Bangle

This is the perfect Christmas gift for your best friend. Or for yourself. I mean, purchasing yourself a BFF charm bracelet wouldn't be weird, right? I'm just obsessing over the champagne (or sparkling grape juice if you wanna call it that) charm. It's perfect!

This fabulous sale lasts through January 6th, 2016. So no rush... unless you're totally eyeing that one item that is sure to sell out fast. Come to think of it, that's probably all of the items on sale, so hurry up and shop away my friends!

15 Coworker Gifts under $50!

Coworkers can be tricky to buy for sometimes. Especially if you're a recent college grad like me and you haven't been with a company long enough to have established super close relationships. Don't get me wrong, I love my coworkers! But in any situation, buying gifts for someone you may not have known for very long or may not know a lot about can be a bit difficult. I've found 15 gifts under $50 to make your coworker gift search just a little bit easier. You'll be sure to be a favorite during Secret Santa this year and for the years to follow!

1. Marble Journal - Oh my goodness, this notebook is fantastic! I've been really into the marble phone cases lately, but I'm too much of a klutz to use a phone case that won't protect my phone. This is a great gift for that coworker that loves to take copious amounts of notes at every meeting. Stylin' and profilin' - am I right?

2. Pizza Ornament - I have this dream that one day I will have a Christmas tree devoted to two of my favorite things in life - Jesus and pizza. This ornament would be the first step in making this dream tree a reality. But in terms of coworker gifts - I know that all of my coworkers love pizza! We're always ordering pizzas or going out to lunch at the pizza place down the street. This gift is great and super inexpensive!

3. Portable Phone Charger - I'm not sure about y'all's coworkers, but mine are forever popping around the office asking if anyone has a phone charger. This gift is stylish and useful, and in my opinion, those are the best gifts to receive.

4. Dark Chocolate Sea-Salt Caramels - I love sea salt caramels. We have a Kilwin's here in Wilmington and it's great! But they do have an online presence and you can purchase all of the chocolate that your heart desires. Chocolate is always a good gift - I mean really, who doesn't love chocolate?

5. Kate Spade Thermal Mug - This gift is great for the coworker who has multiple cups of coffee per day. Kate Spade makes great mugs - thermal or not. I personally like thermals more because they keep your coffee warm for a longer period of time. And I'm one to let it sit there while I work and forget about it for 10 minutes or so at a time!

6. Mini Labo Gel Cool Bento Box - Going out to lunch is always great, but lately I've been trying to bring my lunch and save a little bit of money. These little guys are adorable! They're great for if you don't have a refrigerator at the office - just pop the lid in the freezer over night and it will keep your lunch cold until you're ready to eat.

7. Personality Desk Signs - These desk signs are awesome! They're a fabulous gift for the goofy coworker. They're a great desk accessory, but an even better conversation piece. Grab one of these for your boss and I'm sure he'll get a good crack out of it!

8. Tear Off E-Card 2016 Calendar - We all have that sarcastic coworker. It's a given. It's like a rule of business that every office have one sarcastic employee. This is the perfect gift for that person. I get a kick out of these e-cards every time I see them!

9. Adult Mandalas Coloring Book - Call me crazy, but I think these coloring books are great! Coloring doesn't just have to be for kids - I actually find it quite soothing when I'm super stressed out. These would definitely be a unique gift that your coworker will remember!

10. Monogrammed Wine Stopper - This is the perfect gift for the coworker that loves to go home and unwind with a glass of wine everyone once in a while (or every night, I'm not here to judge)! This is a super inexpensive and classy gift.

11. Tito Chihuahua Taco Holder - I saw these babies on Pinterest and immediately fell in love. These little guys are hilarious! Who doesn't love tacos? If you don't love tacos, you need to reevaluate your life. Like come on. But if by chance your coworker is like the 0.0005% of people in the world that doesn't like tacos, they could always be used for pitas?

12. Kate Spade New York Large Agenda - Everyone who juggles a career and having a life outside of that career needs an agenda. I bought the Kate Spade 2015 agenda and have been using it all year and it's great. Super simplistic and great to look at. Another option would be the Lilly Pulitzer agenda line - they have a great 12-month agenda that I'm dying for!

13. Pineapple Personalized Notepad - This is another great gift for that note-take or list maker in the office! This website has so many different styles, so this gift is great for women and men. I know at my work, we go through notepads like crazy, so this gift will definitely get use!

14. Turquoise Desk Accessories - These desk accessories will add a pop of color to any office space! These are great for your super organized coworker - and even your super unorganized coworker... maybe they'll take the him (; either way - a fun gift to give or receive!

15. Personalized Business Card Holder - These card holders are so classy - I wouldn't mind having one on my desk! They're very professional and stylish - a great gift for that coworker that you may not know so well.

The Softest Sweater

I've always been a sweater fan - cream colored sweaters to be exact. I don't know what it is about them, maybe it's the simplicity and the ability to pair with them with just about anything in your wardrobe. I've counted five of them in my closet so far - one of which was purchased this past weekend. I'm not lying when I say that I am most certainly obsessed with this sweater. If only the weather in Wilmington would cool down a bit so I could show it off!

Madewell Sweater | Blanket Scarf | Jeans (similar) | Booties (similar)

This sweater is hands down my absolute favorite sweater on this Earth. It's so soft and the pom pom details are everything. This sweater was purchased from Madewell. I've always been a fan of Madewell's vests (like the reversible one I featured here), so this is my first sweater purchase and I definitely have no regrets. Oh and surprise! The jeans and booties combo is back - I told you it would be! I get most of my jeans from American Eagle, just because I've found they they fit my tiny legs the best. Bevello carries a line of Paige jeans that are great as well, but a bit more on the expensive side. These boots are great - would you believe me if I said they are a couple of years old? My sorority big passed them down to me and I wear them all the time. But like I said, the jeans and booties combo is kind of my thing. Also, if you don't own a blanket scarf, you need to pull yourself out from that rock you've been living under and get yourself one. This one was purchased at a local Raleigh boutique, but you can literally find them anywhere. I love this one and this one too - They make for great Christmas presents!

Stay classy, friends!

Mad for Plaid

Happy Monday, friends! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, full of family and fun! Mine was great - I was able to help prepare food for the homeless, then turn right around and help prepare food for my family's Thanksgiving feast! Of course, I went home for Thanksgiving. If you don't know me personally, then you don't know that I'm from a really small, rural town in North Carolina. I moved to Wilmington for school and now work there full-time. Going home is always great. Growing up, I hated living in such a small town, but now I love going home and having a bit of peace and quiet. My boyfriend lives about 45 minutes away from me in a way smaller town. He took me to explore this piece of land that he loves - it has a great barn on it! I was slightly obsessed...

Plaid Top | Jeans (similar) | Booties (similar)

Now, about my outfit... Plaid is a fall staple. It's a definite must-have in your closet. I own so many different plaid and flannel shirts, but this one has to be my absolute favorite. It's lightweight and long enough that I could totally wear it with a pair of leggings and riding boots! And it's comfortable enough that I don't want to immediately take it off after wearing it all day. I'm also kind of obsessed with the jeans and booties combo. You'll totally see me rockin' it in many of my future posts. Most of my jewelry is from Rocksbox. Seriously y'all, check it out - you can try your first month free with my code: morganbff257! You sign up and they'll send you three pieces of jewelry (from your wishlist) each month, and if you love any of the pieces, you can purchase them at a discounted price! I'm on my fourth month, and I've loved every piece they've sent me! You won't be sorry that you tried it... and if you don't like it, well hey, at least you got to try it for free!

Stay classy, friends!

15 Accessories Under $50

I love accessories. Plain and simple. I believe that accessories are what make an outfit complete. I cannot leave the house without a pair of earrings, a bracelet or necklace, and a ring. If I do, I feel lost and naked all day! But I also know that accessories aren't just jewelry, there's a lot that goes into the category of accessories. And there's a lot of accessories that will make the perfect gift this Christmas season. I've provided you with 15 gift ideas for $50 and under. Take a look!

1. GiGi New York iPhone 6 Case - I am a huge fan of this iPhone case, but of course I'm a girly girl and love just about anything pink and gold! This case is just so classic. Why not dress up something up that we know we all use so much? $35.00

2. Tartan Blanket Scarf - Blanket scarves are huge this year! They seriously make the perfect gift! I like how this one isn't as big and "in your face" as the original blanket scarves. Sure, the big ones keep you extra warm, but this is the perfect size to wear to work or class! $44.00

3. Street Level 'Large' Faux Leather Shopper - I've been swooning over this bag for quite some time. It is the perfect size to slip my laptop and agenda in and take to work. This blag is just so classic - and did I mention it comes in four different colors? $48.00

4. Plaid Blanket Scarf - Okay, so I couldn't post a tartan blanket scarf without posting the original blanket scarf. This baby will keep you incredibly warm. Not kidding - it's my go to scarf when I'm leaving the house. I even wore mine while hiking in the mountains. It definitely kept me warm. $22.00

5. Lilly Pulitzer Cosmetic Case - This is a great gift for that girl who loves to travel (hint, hint mom & dad). But really, everyone needs a good cosmetic case - why not purchase one that's fun to look at? I'd have to say my favorite print is the breakwater blue underwater escape. There's just something about coral that I love! $48.00

6. Loren Hope Sophia Earring / Deep Sea - Studs are in. But if we're being honest here, we know that they've always been in. I have a great pair of big Kate Spade studs that I love, but these are just as great. And this deep sea color is great for the Christmas season! $36.00

7. Kate Spade Initial Ring - Like Reese Witherspoon once said, "If it's not moving, monogram it." This is the perfect gift for a close friend. And what's best is that it's basically one size fits all, so you don't have to worry about finding out their ring size! $32.00

8. Pinch Provisions Mini Emergency Kit - This is the perfect gift. Seriously! This kit has everything a girl needs, including hairspray, earring backs, double-sided tape, a deodorant towelette, and so much more. This is a gift that will definitely get a lot of use. Especially if your clumsy and forgetful like myself! $18.00

9. Kate Spade 12-Month Agenda - I know I've touched on this in the past but I'm so thankful that Kate Spade and Lilly Pulitzer decided to come out with 12-month agendas! I buy one every December, and with the 18-month agendas, I'am stuck unable to use the first 6 months. What a waste of paper! Anyways, this one is absolutely adorable and a great gift for that organized person in your life. $40.00

10. Alex and Ani Sailor's Knot Bangle - I'm sure most of you have heard of Alex and Ani. If not, then it's about time you crawl out from that rock you've been hiding under. I especially love the gold bangles - but I've always been more attracted to gold than silver. I chose this bangle because I have a boyfriend with a love of the water and we have shared many fun memories out on his boat. But don't fret, there are so many bangles to choose from! $28.00

11. Anthropoligie Double Pearl Necklace - I've been seeing this necklace everywhere! It's so classy looking and is a great statement piece. And what's best is that it's on sale right now so hurry up and get one before they're gone! $15.00 (on sale)

12. Kendra Scott 'Decklyn' Pendant Necklace - Kendra Scott definitely didn't go wrong when designing her logo. This beautiful necklace is 14k gold and perfect for light layering! I promise you won't regret purchasing this piece. $50.00

13. J. Crew Tortoise Link Necklace - Y'all. It's hard for me to put into words how obsessed I am with this necklace, but I'll give it a shot. I love just about anything tortoise shell print - my boyfriend can vouch for that. And who doesn't love some bling with their tortoise shell print? I SURE DO! $40.00 (on sale)

14. Quay My Girl Sunnies - Quay makes some killllller shades and they are most definitely a must have right now. Of course, like I said before, I'd choose the tortoise shell print, but any of these sunnies will stand out! The subtle cat-eye is the perfect amount of cat-eye for me. $50.00

15. Crochet Double Cuff Over-The-Knee Socks - I have a pair of over-the-knee socks that I wear all the time in the winter. These are the perfect lounging socks, but will also look great folded over with a pair of boots! Go ahead and go for the 2 for $20 deal... you'll be wearing these a lot! $20.00

Happy shopping, friends!

15 Under $50 for the Man in your Life

Hey folks, Turner (AKA: Morgan’s Love Machine) here. My lovely other half has asked me to do a blog entry for her “15 Under 50” series. This one is going to be for the man in your life, because who better to tell you what to get your man, than another man.

A little about me first, just so you know where I am drawing some of my inspiration from. I am a born and raised North Carolinian who grew up on vinegar based BBQ, sweet tea, and my Nanny’s *basically* famous chocolate pie. I was raised on a dirt road between two tobacco fields with a cow pasture in the front yard, and a pond it the back. In short, I was born in the sticks. However, moving to Wilmington has opened my eyes up to a ton of different things, so I like to think of myself as a nouveau country boy. A lot of what you are going to see here is going to be stuff for the outdoors, but I’ll toss in some other things for a night on the town, or a stroll through the city streets. So, if your man is like me, consider getting him a couple of the things on this list.

1. Council Tools #2 Hudson Bay Axe: As someone who chops their own firewood, there is no better tool to get the job done than a wooden handle axe. While he won’t be splitting large logs with this one, it will definitely come in handy at the campsite when he’s doing light duty splitting, delimbing, or driving in camp stakes. The best part about it? It’s made right here in North Carolina, so you know you’re supporting a local craftsman and his/her family when you buy it.    MSRP: $52.02 (but you can find it for closer to $40).
2. NC Flag Patch Hat: If your guy is anything like me he has a ton of old ratty baseball caps lying around. Morgan tells me to get rid of them all the time, but they all hold some memories, and a little good luck if you ask me. Check out these awesome hats from the folks at House of Swank, a local NC based company and give him a blank canvas for some new memories. MSRP: $25.00
3. Yeti Rambler: It is hard to have a list of gift ideas for guys and not include at least one Yeti product. While I don’t think every soccer dad needs a huge cooler just to keep the Capri Suns cold, this is a Yeti product I can really stand behind. Double walled stainless steel means his drink is going to stay cold for hours, but his hands will stay dry due to its sweat free design. The rambler series is currently sold out on Yeti’s website, but there are plenty of local dealers who have them still.  MSRP: $39.99
4. Dollar Beard Club Subscription: I’m sorry, but your man doesn’t want that multi-pack of razors. He wants a thick manly beard and the right accessories to take care of it. For about $40 you can get him a kit of goods to take care of that thick beautiful mane.  MSRP: Varies depending on package
5. Wooden Six-Pack Caddy: There is nothing worse than finding your favorite tasty brews only to lose a few good soldiers in-route to the party because of wet cardboard. Get him one of these awesome six-pack caddy made of salvaged redwood beams. Also, you could paint this and create a one of kind gift that he can show off to all of his friends! MSRP: $45.00

6. Wireless Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker: A party isn’t complete without music. Get him this awesome bluetooth speaker that he can take anywhere! Morgan and I use ours all the time on the boat, in the yard when we’re having bonfires, or having people over! This one from Amazon is heavily discounted right now and you can grab it for $30! MSRP: $100 27.99
7. Leather Sunglasses Strap: I don’t care too much for the standard foam croakies, I always seem to wear them out pretty quickly and end up dropping my sunglasses anyway. So, I switched to using some rope tied to the end of my sunglasses a while back. However, if I were to get a new pair of sunglasses, they would be sporting these awesome leather sunglasses straps from Buffalo Jackson. MSRP: $27.95
8. Portable Pizza Pouch : I really should be including this on 15 gifts to get Morgan (14 of those are pizza, and this is the 15th gift). But this is a great stocking stuffer that is sure to get a couple laughs from everyone. MSRP: $8.00
9. Wooden Accessory Docking Station: Ask Morgan, I lose either my keys or my wallet EVERYDAY. Granted I could just leave them on the counter and they shouldn’t get lost, but I’m sure I’ll still misplace them. I love this docking station, it makes it easy to have everything in one place and it looks so good that it might even inspire me to put my stuff on it. MSRP: $35.00
10. Topo Designs Dopp Kit: If your guy is still carrying his soap and toothbrush in a ziplock bag it is time to get him a dopp kit. This one from Topo Designs is the perfect size to hold all of his shower supplies for weekend getaways and he won’t look like a goober carrying around a plastic baggie full of shampoo. One of the best things about this one? It’s hand stitched in Colorado! MSRP: $29.00
11. Black Oxide Money Clip: Every guy needs a good money clip. There are times when you don’t want to carry around a big bulky wallet but still need some cash and a few cards. This one from Manready Mercantile is a great option. I love that over time the black finish will patina showing the brass underneath. Bonus points because it is made in the USA! MSRP: $38.00
12. The Noble Series Soy Candle: Let’s face it, your guy’s place stinks. I’m not sure why, but Morgan’s house always smells better than mine, I assume it’s because she sprays perfume every time she leaves the house but it may be because I really need to pick up my dirty laundry. A big problem with getting my house to smell nice is that just about every candle and air freshener is marketed towards women. While I love the smell of cucumber melon, it isn’t what I want to smell in my own place. This is where the the Noble Series Soy Candle comes in. I love their Cedar + Sage scent because it has a nice woodsy scent but doesn't smell like a campfire or a christmas tree. MSRP: $28.00
13. Opinel No7 Hermione Knife: Sure, I could spend $100+ on a nice benchmade knife. They are solid knives that cut well, but honestly, I will lose it within the first month of owning one. Thankfully, you can still get a quality knife without breaking the bank. I love the Opinel brand of knives. They have been around since the late 1800’s and are considered a “working man’s knife”. There are a ton of different styles to choose from (most under $30) but I really like the No.7 Hermione. It is made from reclaimed wood from the French Frigate “Hermione” which brought aid to the US in the American Revolutionary War. MSRP: $27.49
14. 100 Deadly Skills: This is the ultimate dude’s bathroom book. It seems like it would be cheesy but honestly it is a really good read and would be a great gift for anyone who travels a lot or is into self-reliance. MSRP: $11.00
15. Brackish Plum Thicket Pin: I know that all of these gifts are supposed to be under $50, but at $55 I couldn’t resist adding the Brackish pins, so I threw this one in last. One of these would be an awesome stocking stuffer for the guy who wears a blazer as it adds a little color without being gaudy. They have a bunch of different styles that can be matched to one of their bow ties or worn alone. Plus, it is awesome that they are all handmade in Charleston, SC. MSRP: $55.00

Well That is all I have for y’all. I hope you found something exciting to get your other half this holiday season!

Peace and Blessin’s

-Turner

15 Gifts Under $50 for the Preppy Girl

The Christmas season is upon us and if you're like me, buying gifts for people totally stresses you out. So I've decided to do a series of gift guides up until Christmas to try to lessen the burden of gifting for you! These guides will be posted every Tuesday and Thursday - so keep an eye out for them. Today's guide is geared toward that one totally preppy girl in your circle of friends. Here are a few gifts that I'm sure she would absolutely love!

1. Lilly Pulitzer 12-Month Agenda - This item is at the top of my list this year. I was so excited when I found out Lilly was releasing a 12 month agenda. I get so annoyed when I buy an agenda at the beginning of the year and can't use the first 5 months. What a waste of totally good paper. Ugh, Lilly always gets it right.
2. Marley Lilly Scalloped Monogram Tote - Scallops are always a must. This bag is absolutely adorable - and the perfect size to carry to work or class! I'm a huge fan of the cognac color. You can't go wrong with a monogrammed item.
3. Vineyard Vines Whale Cuff - I love myself some arm candy. This cuff can add the perfect pop of color to any outfit - and the signature whale embellishment is adorable. Of course, I'm a sucker for gold jewelry, so I'm in favor of the pink cuff!
4. Gold Carnaby Zebra Stacking Dish - I have been obsessing over this stacking dish for the longest time. This dish is great to keep on your nightstand as a catch all for your jewelry! The price of this dish has me wanting to buy one for all of my friends.
5. Crown & Ivy Solid Puffer Vest - I own a striped puffer vest from Crown & Ivy (see here) and I love it! These are the PERFECT gift and they won't break the bank. Everyone needs a good solid puffer to keep them warm and looking classy when the temperatures drop.
6. Calf Hair Passport Case - Is your friend traveling abroad next semester? If so, this is the absolute perfect gift! I wish I had this passport case when I traveled to France. I probably would've been able to locate my passport quicker and save myself a lot of panic attacks. 
7. Vineyard Vines Striped Whale Mittens - These mittens are the cutest! They're a totally practical gift. I love a gift that people can use for years and years. And if you feel like splurging, there's a matching hat and scarf to boot!
8. Minnie & Emma Monogrammed Sleepy Eye Mug - Oh my goodness, I love mugs! If I had enough room in my cabinets, I'd buy more. This one is so lovely and the perfect description of how I look in the morning - sleepy eyes for sure. Throw in some hot chocolate packets and you've got a fun gift!
9. Moon and Lola Hartford Block Monogram Necklace - I'm not kidding when I say that I'm obsessed with this necklace. It's great that there are so many different color choices - you can sport your school colors! Turquoise is close enough to teal, right? (Go Seahawks!)
10. Krass & Co. Navy Sailor's Delight Shorts - Krass & Co. took a product that most girls are obsessed with and put a fun spin on it! These shorts would become a workout staple for me - I love a good pair of dry-fit shorts.
11. Lilly Pulitzer Votive Candle Set - Everyone needs candles! Seriously... what happens if a crazy snow storm knocks out your power?! You'll have a set of Lilly Pulitzer candles to brighten up your home and make it smell wonderful. You can't beat that.
12. Smathers & Branson Greek Needlepoint Hat - This would make the cutest stocking stuffer for any sorority girl. I may have asked my boyfriend for one this year - Alpha Phi alum, represent! But really, needlepoint is so classic and ladies, they make fraternity ones too! Perfect gift for your man.
13. Monogrammed Seersucker Scalloped Lounge Shorts - Like I said before, scallops are a must. Seersucker and scallops are a knockout combo. These shorts will be your go-to lounging shorts
14. Kiel James Patrick Classic Bowtie Bracelet - I love this idea. Guys shouldn't be the only ones able to wear a bowtie! See how to style these beauties on one of my fav blogs here.
15. DIY Cake Pop Kit - Okay ya'll, seriously? Who doesn't love a cake pop? Especially those delicious ones from Starbucks - they're so hard to resist. This is a great gift for those girls that just love to bake!

Happy shopping, friends!