8 posts categorized "subscription review"

December 08, 2009

Subscription Review :: Martha Stewart Weddings. Travel 2009.

This special travel issue is absolutely wonderful.  From the photo on the cover, to the color of "weddings", and all the way to the font of the words "destination & dream honeymoons", I am in love.  Even though I'm a fanatic about not putting any creases in or around my magazines, I have put this one on the top shelf to keep it away from any sticky fingers.  It's a shame that I love it that much though, because there's plenty of inspiration inside.

Cover
p. 9 :: "Good Things To Go" - - personalized maps, vintage postcards, and maps that highlight the best to-see spots.  There's also the 8 surprises to leave on their beds, which will definitely show your guests how much you thought about them.  There are 6 fast fixes, and my favorite of the section personalized candy bar labels.  Maybe it's the color palette, or maybe it's the chocolate, but I love them!

p. 23 :: "Real Weddings" - - The Toronto wedding of Somina Madan & Gaurav Seth is filled with bright colors, gold, and tradition.  The Lanai, Hawaii wedding of Lisa LeRoy & Steven Pearson is very chic, with a soft color palette, outdoor reception, and lush with orchids.  The Vail, Colorado wedding of Claudia Lipcon & Michael Winkleman is very simple and elegant, which allows you to soak up the scenery & enjoy the view of the mountain backdrop.  The Los Cabos wedding of Alissa Schell & Larry Oleska has a pink & orange color palette, very festive, ans without a doubt a rocking fiesta!  The St. Helena, California wedding of Christina Lowris & Alexander Panos looks very sophisticated .

 p. 31 :: "Let's Make a Date" - - nothing sets the tone of your big day than the invitation, and these fabulous ideas from the issue are easy to do.  Check them out online.  Plus, there are plenty of downloadable templates for you to use!

Invites 

Invites2

p. 38 :: "Trek Tech" - - Ther are 8 gadgets you shouldn't go without when travelling.  The one I want is the solar charger.  How awesome would that be?  There are 8 more that will help you be entertained & document you trip.  These items range from speakers & underwater digital cameras to your mp3 player & "reader" (Kindle, anyone?).  The last 5 items are what will help you savor the photos you take, like the photo printer (I seriously want one of these... just to have!).

p. 44 :: "The Away Team" - - this is a team I can't help but cheer for.  Resort Insider, Cerona Carter, is considered a destination wedding guru.  She answers her opinion on what the hottest spots are, and some advice for brides who are considering a destination wedding.  Event Planner Alison Hotchkiss shares her ideas of the disadvantages of having your big day far away, but also how couples should select their destination.  Photographer Jose Villa shares his favorite destination, as well as what makes a good picture.

p. 50 :: "Destination Do's & Don'ts" - - get the answers to your pre-wedding questions, which may include: whether or not to pay for the wedding party to go; whether you must plan daily activities for the guests; inviting folks to your shower if you're not inviting them to the wedding; or registering for gifts.  You might also be worried about things happening closer to or while on your destination, like what if a bridesmaid misses her flight, how to discourage guests from bringing along their gifts, and whether you're obligated to "hang" with your guests all weekend.  There are also some post-wedding issues that may get you wondering.

p. 55 :: "Ready Set Go".  Check out the 10 different luggage options featured in the magazine.  Some are traditional colors, while others are colorful.  I go with the colorful!  There are also some helpful tips on what you need to do to make sure you're legally wed.  Find out about the shipping costs & news, quick honeymoon fixes in case someone gets sick, and the best websites to help you plan your escape.  You may also want to remember your shades, and their "destination decoder," which tells you which locations you should travel depending on the time of the year, is very helpful.

p. 75 :: "Travel Happily" - - These destination wedding dresses will help you travel light, and they totally fit the part.  These are my favorites: Melissa Sweet for Priscilla of Boston, Oscar de la Renta, Marchesa, and Morgan Le Fay.

Travellight
Travellight1

p. 88 :: "Room Service" - - Get some creative ways on how to personalize your destination wedding with these easy & fun DIY projects.  Oh yeah, and they look so darling too!  Make them feel welcome, make concierge & friend buttons,Luggage Tag How-To tags, and even your own Newsletter.  

p. 96 :: "Swept Away" - - Seriously one of the most gorgeous destination weddings I have ever laid my eyes on.  Pink peonies and the coconut wedding cake did it for me.  You will get swept away as I did.

p. 107 :: "America the Beautiful" - - there are plenty of "destinations" throughout the United States.  This article gives you some fabulous suggestions for every type of bride - - country, beach, city, and desert.

p. 114 :: "From Ethiopia, With Love" This city wedding with a village celebration was very cultural and looked like a lot of fun... the best of both worlds!

p. 120 :: "The Great Escape" - - There are several suggested destinations for any type of couple, from beach bums & thrill seekers to city slickers & frequent fliers.

p. 130 :: "All-Inclusive Exclusives" - - This article breaks down some awesome package deals for adventure-seeking couples to those that like to cruise.  Whether your budget is very tight, moderate, or luxury, there is a suggestion for you.

 

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December 04, 2009

Subscription Review :: Martha Stewart Weddings. Fall 2009.

I know this is long overdue, but I couldn't NOT do one.  Better late than never.  With Martha Stewart Weddings' 15th anniversary issue coming out in December, I am dying to see what the talented ladies behind the magazine come up with.  I'm sure it will definitely include something old {flashbacks of the past 15 years}, something new {with their fresh ideas}, something borrowed, and something blue {you know...the signature Martha Stewart blue}.

Cover

Here are my favorite parts of the Martha Stewart Weddings Fall 2009 issue.

p. 30 :: "In Love with Sparkle & Shine" - - the Anthropologie shot glasses are different, quirky, but cute at the same time.  "My Private Sky" plates from Nymphenburg Store USA are perfect for any star-studded event, literally.  NASA lovers, anyone?  

p. 48 :: "Ask Martha" - - you definitely need to read the advice regarding hiring a planner.  The other questions included revolve around inviting the groom's close friends who are on a tight budget & live pretty far away; the issue of whether to trust your ringbearer with the rings; not wanting to anyone besides your bridesmaids and mother where you're getting ready; and where to have the response cards addressed to.

p. 59 :: "Good Things" Looking for something different, but not too over-the-top?  Consider having live lovebirds at your event.  You can also celebrate fall with the pasta made leaves or DIY acorn earings.  My favorite?  The DIY belled-ballet slippers and DIY velvet table numbers.  Some other DIY projects suggested are the not-so-typical cards your guests can fill out, in lieu of your guest book.  Have your guest fill-in-the-blank to make it fun!  Funky boutonnieres, a fanciful table seating chart, as well as recipes for peanut brittle & toffee round out the Good Things for this issue.

 

Fall-goodthings

p. 78 :: "Real Weddings" - - Loving the real weddings featured in this issue.  They seriously evoke autumn.  The first one has the wedding attendants carrying glowing candles.  The second one's color palette and fascination with squirrels totally scream autumn.  The third one reminds me of that feeling you get at the beginning of the fall semester on campus.  I don't know why.  

p. 86 :: "Ring Galaxy" - - I was swooning, ooh'ing, & aah'ing over these bling-y rings.  Whether the engagement ring is a solitaire, or not, these diamond bands are AMAZING.  Convincing factor is that you're trying to reduce by only one ring, because I am telling you - - these rings make up for only sporting a band.  I love the Jack Kelege "Leaf' ring ($10,6000), Varna "micropave-set chain-link diamond band" (uber chic & sleek), and the Dior Fine Jewelry "Oui" ring (charming is the word).  For the combo's, I loved the De Beers DB classic set (nothing wrong with classic), and even though I'm not a huge fan of pear cuts or marquis, the contemporary rings by Conroy & Wilcox being featured are stunning.  I like being different, so the gold rings (or predominantly gold rings) are darling.  My favorites are the Melinda Maria textured circles & Cathy Waterma antique-style scroll ring.

 p. 94 :: "Fresh for Fall" Gown Gallery.  Whether it's a hint of gold, or accentuating the shoulder, these looks are totally trendy and not one of those 80s disasters.

p. 100 :: "Going the Distance" - - gets some advice to make your look last.  Eyes, lips, scent, and skin is covered.

p. 106 :: Expert Advice "At Your Service" from the fab gown designer Carlos Ramirez.  He gives his opinion on how many dresses you should try on, his top tip, and ideas for brides on a budget.  Style setter, Claudia Schwartz, shares how she comes up with her vision, advice for working with a tight budget, and what makes a good favor.  Event designer, Todd Fiscus, describes how things are done in Texas, his idea as the biggest benefit to hiring a wedding planner, and some ways to cut costs.  Registry Insider, Mary Rose Gearon, advises as to when a couple should register, how many gifts to register for, and the one knockout item that should be on every couple's list.

p. 116 :: "Pleased as Punch" - - here are some DIY projects that you can do.  Great ways to cut costs for your day, add a personal touch, and doll it up at the same time!  They're super easy.  Step one is picking up a few of Martha's special punchers.  Step two is getting the instructions!

Pleasedaspunch3 

Pleasedaspunch1 

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p 126 :: "Room for Improvement" - - get some advice on how to spice up your event by using the walls, ceiling, and lighting to your advantage.

p. 138 :: "Party Protocol" - - find out who to sit where, what happens when, etc.  There are 12 total topics for things you probably didn't think of, but need to know.  

p. 148 :: "Personality Plates" - - although they're not deal-breakers when it comes to making your event an extraordinary one, plates can add some life to, not only your table, but the overall mood of your event.  Add some personality by picking something different.  You can get sophisticated with some gold tints added, or go eclectic with a special pattern.  You can keep it pure & simple with solid whites, and trust me, you can't go wrong with that either.

p. 158 :: "Making it Official" - - what route are you going to take when hiring an officiant for your day?  Someone of the clergy, a judge, or a friend?  It's up to you, but be sure to read this article if you're still trying to decide.

p. 169 :: "Perfect Palette" is Honey & Wheat.  What a gorgeous color palette!  From the table decor & centerpieces, to the cheese & signature drinks.  The variety is tremendous, bloom selection can be overwhelming (only because there are so many), and the attire & accessories are perfect for any type of bride and her bridesmaids.  There's something for everyone.  I seriously thought of WeddingBee.com when I was checking this article out, with all the "bee-themed" items included.

Perfectpalette

Perfectpalette2

p. 190 :: "Let's Dance" So many gowns, for all types of dancing.  You will love it.  Get some playlist recommendations to get your guests something to get down to!

p. 202 :: "Sweet Treasures" - - cakes and jewelry.  They really go hand-in-hand, especially with these literally sweet and gorgeous cakes.  My favorites are below.

Cakes 

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p. 210 :: Real Wedding "Giving Thanks" - - the details of this wedding are impeccable.  Black & white color palette.  

p. 218 :: "Ready, Set, Confetti" - - you have to check out the details in this article.  The color palette is so fun, the details are so do-able, and the ideas can be used for any type of party.  Who doesn't like confetti, besides the person who has to clean it up?  Take a look below of my favorite images.

Confetti 

Confetti2

p. 226 :: "Just My Type" - - I am a huge paper lover.  From banners to stationery, anything paper is divine.  You can go refined, glamourous, playful, minimalist, whimsical, or offbeat.  I think I'm a little bit of each. Ha!  Check out Martha's online gallery of the pretty paper, by stationers like Rifle Design.

p. 234 :: "Southern Comfort" - - not the drink, but a classy Brooklyn couple get married and have details that will make you swoon.

p. 242 :: "Take a Bough" - - Get some inspiring fall ideas from this section, which includes lots of branches and leaves transformed into centerpieces, arches, hanging decor, and more.

p. 254 :: "Food of Love" - - you travelers will love the suggested honeymoon destinations in this issue.  The inspiration?  Food!  This article gives the 411 on Tuscany, Hoi An, Napa Valley, & Oaxaca.  Delicious food with amazing flavor, with plenty of places to see, people to meet, and stores to shop!

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March 20, 2009

Subscription Review #5 :: Real Simple. April 2009.

 p. 10 :: The Simple List: (Suzanne Rust) -

  • 1862: the 1st U.S. income tax was levied.
  • 1.1 billion: estimated number of people with no access to clean drinking water. Visit csdw.org to find out how $1 can give a child clean water for 50 days!!
  • 50: number of items you should get rid of, according to life coach, Gail Blanke, who is also the author of Throw Out Fifty Things: Clear the Clutter, Find Your Life.
  • 7: Bits of baseball lingo:tater {homerun}; cheese {good fast ball}; wheels {a player's legs}; fireman {closer/late-inning relief pitcher}; meatball {easy pitcher to hit}; circus catch {outstanding grab by fielder}; Mendoza line {batting average of .200}
  • April 6: Major League Baseball's Opening Day

p. 25 :: How do you Stay Connected to the People You Care about Most?  {This month's question} - Answers included: Wii online, leaving notes in kids' lunches or husbands' briefcase, care packages to her daughter in college, + keeping a blog or Facebook.  My favorite is this one woman's answer that said she bought gym memberships for her children + grandchildren, and they made it a point to go to the gym twice a week!  Isn't that a wonderful idea?

p. 30 :: RealSimple.com

p. 35 - 42 :: SOLUTIONS

  • Interested in spicing up your drinking glasses + help people distinguish whose glass is whose?  Use some window decals. 
  • Do you get irritated with the gunky hair that gets stuck in your brush?  It's Oscar's pet peeve {he thinks it's totally disgusting}.  Use some hoisery and create a screen on your brush, so you can easily remove that hair + gunk easily!
  • I hate when my groceries slide around in my back seat.  Try a nonskid rug pad to line your trunk.
  • Have you tried dusting your ceiling fans and got more dirt on the floor than in your trash?  Try cleaning them with an old pillow case, so you can catch the dirt. 
  • For you florists or those folks who have been exposed to floral supplies, try a flower frog as a photo holder on your desk.  Now, that's fresh!
  • Trade Secrets : Get Designer Deals Online : check out the following sites for designer items at discount prices online.
  • Problem Solving Products : check out these  products for some typical household issues.

p. 53-111 :: The Guide to Florals

  • 3 fool-proof ways to wear florals
    •  pair with a solid shade - if it's a vibrant shade, pair with  khaki, black, or white
    • don't mix floral patterns
    • camoflauge trouble areas
    • check out these sites for some floral goodness : www.whitehouseblackmarket.com {OMG... big mistake showing me this site!  Everything is b+w!  I have no idea why I have never come across it before.}, www.hm.com, www.bodenusa.com
  • the article features a raincoat from Old Navy in blue {but I also found it in a b+w print}.  As of 3/18/09, they're on sale!

Raincoats

Dav

p. 79 :: Article by Elenie N. Gage about Elizabeth Rogers, who is an environmental consultant and the author of the bestselling book, The Green Book.  Elizabeth shares her beauty secrets, from hair + body to face + all!

p. 85 :: Have {less} money, will travel by Elizabeth Schatz Passarella.  If you're interested in taking a vacaction or travelling to get away, but don't have all the funds you think you need to do it, read this article.  She gives tips on: {1} "If flying seems too pricey..."; {2} "If multiple hotel rooms are draining your wallet..."; {3} "If you can travel only at peak times..."; and {4} "If you tend to spend too much, then suffer later..."  Trust me, they're helpful tips, and by the end of the article, you'll be dying to start planning a trip!

p. 95 :: The 20-minute workout by Megan McMorris.  My #1 excuse for flaking the workout is not having enough time.  Well, this article busted that myth, and made me realize that keep that out of my head.  Really?  20 minutes?  I don't know exactly how effective these exercises would be to getting you as toned as the girl in the photos, but it sure doesn't hurt to try.  It's a full-body workout, I suppose, since she mentions a several exercises, targeting several body parts, as well as variations to increase the workout's effectiveness.

p. 105 :: how to save on green goods by Kristin Appenbrink.  Another myth busted by this article, because a lot of people say that they "can't go green" because it's too expensive.  For example, my favorite store Target has a variety of organic goods, and everyone knows Target doesn't drain the wallet {unless, of course, you go as much as I do}!

p. 109 :: cost comparison: a cup of coffee - hands down, Dunkin' Donuts has the cheapest black coffee, cappuccino, and espresso {in comparison with Peet's, Starbucks, + Seattle's Best}.

p. 113 :: road tests.  This month's included tests on tape, hair smoothers, + low-fat yogurt.  From masking tape, double-sided, + duct tape to clear/transparent, painter's, and packing tape... they cover the best in each category.  The hair smoothers evalution for all types of hair. and low-fat yogurt was based on the best brand for each flavor {raspberry, peach, blueberry, strawberry, vanilla, plain + Greek}.

p. 129 :: 10 Ways to be a better thinker by Jonah Lehrer.  I think I need this one.

  1. Tap your emotions.
  2. Don't think under pressure.
  3. Consider alternative points of view.
  4. Challenge your preferences.
  5. Take long showers.
  6. Be skeptical of your memories.
  7. Don't expect to diet + finish the crossword.{This is a gooood one... very interesting study.}
  8. Study your mistakes.
  9. Go ahead + daydream.
  10. Think about thinking. {Go figure!}

p. 135 :: Back-to-Basics in CLEANING. {article by Nicole Sforza}.  I don't love to clean, but I don't absolutely abhor it either. 

  • Lemons can clean: countertops, dishes, faucets, garbage disposal, grout, hands, laundry, AND plastic food-storage containers!
  • Essential oils can help you clean: combs + brushes, gum-encrusted items {disgusting!}, scuffed floors, shower doors, + windows.
  • Liquid Castile soap can help you clean: your car, floors, leather upholstery, marble countertops, sinks, showers, tubs, ceramic tile, stove, + vent hood.
  • Cooking oils can help you clean: cast-iron pans, hands, leather shoes, rattan + wicker furniture, stainless-steel surfaces, + wood furniture.
  • Borax can help you clean: baseboards, countertops, walls, china {including hand-paintd}, dishwasher, pots, pans + toilet.
  • Vinegar can help you clean: your coffeemaker, dishwasher, drains, floors, glassware, moldy walls {nasty!}, showerheads, steam iron, + windows.
  • Baking soda can help you clean: your garage floors {+ other concrete surfaces}, garden tools, grills, barbecue utensils, stove burners, stained teacups + coffee mugs, upholstered furniture, + scuffed walls.
  • Toothpaste can help you clean: your acrylic accessories, chrome fixtures, scuffed linoleum, piano keys, tarnished silverware, + steam iron.
  • Table salt can help you clean: your artificial flowers, glassware, greasy pots + pans, spills in the oven, stained teacups or coffee mugs, + wooden counters and tables.
  • Plus these odd items do wonders too: white bread {cleans your oil painting}, ketchup, oatmeal, rice, tea, glycerin, club soda, hydrogen peroxide, cornstarch, + rubbing alcohol.  If you want to know WHAT exactly these items clean + don't get a chance to pick up a copy, email me!

p. 144 :: 42 mood-boosting ideas to bring joy to every day.  Their list is great.  My favorites are the Gloveable dish gloves from www.surlatable.com, patterned decorative tape from www.containerstore.com, business card filing cabinet from www.thinkgeek.com, + the Cup-a-Cake Single Cupcake Carrier from www.organize.com.

p. 148 :: Wild About Rice, with recipes by Sara Quessenberry.  Instructions on how to make a variety of rices, plus recipes for the best dishes that accompany rice:

  • Gingery Glazed Asian Ribs
  • Creamy Shrimp with Corn + Bacon
  • Curried Eggplant with Tomatoes + Basil
  • Lamb Kebabs with Cucumber-Feta relish
  • Chicken with Olives + Carrots

p. 157 :: Can Facebook be your friend?  by Susan Dominus.  The most common question I'm getting these days from everyone, young + old, is "Are you on Facebook?"  This article helps those of you who are struggling on trying to decide whether you should jump into this new frontier.  Quit debating with yourself + just do it!  It's not a meat market like MySpace {at least, it's not to me}, and it's staged so that you can become "re-acquainted" with current, long-lost, or old friends.  It's not to "meet" people.

p. 163 :: The Ultimate Bathroom Organizer by Roopika Malhotra.

  1. Out with the old, manage the new... some tips on rummaging through your "stuff" and keeping the essentials, which will lead to a cleaner, more organized bathroom.
  2. What to conceal + what to reveal... what should you hide away, and which items should be exposed to guests?  This portion of the article breaks it down on which disposables should be disclosed, and which ones should be kept private.
  3. Think outside the box... bag, box, rack... what is best for you?  You can explore the options here.

p. 173 :: Five Easy Dinners

  • 20-minute meal : Blackened salmon with broccoli rabe + raisins
  • heart-healthy : Pork tenderloin with cabbage + apple slaw
  • vegetarian : Mediterranean salad with chickpea patties
  • slow-cooker meal : Chicken with tarragon + leeks
  • kid-friendly : Spaghetti with quick meat sauce

p. 184 :: Dessert in a flash - caramelized pineapple with coconut sorbet

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February 17, 2009

Subscription Review #4 : Real Simple. March 2009.

 p. 8 : The Simple List: March

  • 1 great website for moms called handmedowns.com
  • 03.09.1959 - Barbie made her way onto store shelves. {photo below via link}

Barbie_1959

  • 5 Bizarre (but Actual) Excuses Employees Have Given for Missing Work {Careerbuilder asked 6,800 workers + 3,300 employers}
    •  Dog was stressed out after a family reunion.
    • Swallowed too much mouthwash.
    • Hit a turkey while riding a bike.
    • Got kicked by a deer.
    • Psychic said to stay home.
      •  1/3 of admitted to playing hooky last year.
  • 7:44 AM Eastern Daylight Time on March 20 is the time of the vernal equinox... Spring has sprung.
  • 10 Most Overused Expressions, according to Jeremy Butterfield, author of Damp Squid: The English Language Laid Back
    •  {one} "At the end of the day"
    •  {two} "Fairly unique"
    •  {three} "I personally think"
    •  {four} "At this moment in time"
    •  {five} "With all due respect"
    •  {six} "Absolutely"
    •  {seven} "It's a nightmare"
    •  {eight} "Shouldn't of"
    •  {nine} "24/7"
    •  {ten} "It's not rocket science"

p. 25 : Message from the editor- Kristen Van Ogtrop writes about something that we can all relate to... the recession, and how it truly affects everyone - not just those who have been laid off, but those who haven't too.

p. 27 : This Month's Question: How do you save money on everyday essentials?  Most of the responses that were included involved bulk shopping, meal planning, and consciously not making unnecessary purchases.

p. 33 : Simple Solutions : New Uses for Old Things

  • Button bags can be used to tote your daily does of meds.
  • Soap case can be used as a camera storage box.
  • Turkey baster can be used to remove the icky water under a potted plant. 
  • Sand can be used to place candles on in glass vases {to avoid melted wax from sticking to the glass}
  • Coffee filter can be used to mix all dry ingredients when baking, which will save you TIME from cleaning.

p. 44 : RealSimple.com - stuff you can find online

p. 55 : The Guide : Lasting Resultsby Petra Guglielmetti... an article that discusses how to prolong your haircut, extend your hair color, preserve a post-facial glow, maintain a white smile, protect painted nails, and keep your brows in line.

p. 64 : More items to buy that are great deals: from wood jewelry, sequined scarves, and shirtdresses to denim skirts, tulle jackets, and oversized wraps.

p. 69 : In case of an emergency by Karen L. Smith... have questions on whether you should ride in an ambulance or get a ride?  Not sure which ER to go to?  This article asks experts to help you determine your plan.

p. 81 : Healthy Choicesby Dimity McDowell... This article helps you decide on which items you should invest in, regarding the 8 items you must have!  The list includes: a thermometer, reading glasses, a bathroom scale, a humidifier, dental floss, heating pads, a pedometer, and toothbrushes.

p. 89 : Safety Checkby Allegra Muzzillo.  Here are some dangers that may be lurking in your home, that you may not even realize.  These dangers include: vermin, asbestos, cleaning agents + pesticides, lead, carbon monoxide, radon, dander + dust, and mold.  They're harmful, yet containable.

p. 99 : Moneywise

How to save on car expenses :

  1. Forget changing your oil every 3,000 miles.  It's actually only required to be changed every 7,500 miles, according to Perry Stern, editor at MSN Autos.
  2. Shop around when it comes to out-of-pocket expenses.
  3. Stick with the dealership for tricky repairs, like a rattle.  {My own advice from personal experience, find out what your warranty covers, and what it costs for them just to LOOK at your car.  My car was held 'hostage" until I paid the dealership $50 to "look" + diagnose my car, when any JiffyLube or PepBoys would do it for free...}
  4. Fix windshield chips immediately - to avoid a full crack.
  5. Skip the extra warranty.
  6. 6. Review your insurance annually.

p. 100 : Where to find the best deals in the supermarket... it says anywhere except eye-level. 

p.102 : March is the best time to buy: a television.  Why?  new models are introduced at the International Consumer Electronics Show... how much savings? ~15%

p. 119 : 10 Ways to Let Go of Your Stuff  by Erin Rooney Doland. 

  1. Tear down the museum.  The author mentions how she took photographs of the cluttering items, like her 2 front baby teeth, and made a scrapbook of her stuff + tossed the actual items.
  2. Assess true value.
  3. Know thyself.
  4. Trust me: You won't fix it.
  5. Do look a gift horse in the mouth.  Don't feel obligated to keep gifts that aren't your taste out of courtesy to the person who gave it to you.
  6. Adapt to your surroundings.
  7. Just admit that you don't like it.
  8. Know what you really need.
  9. Let go of the guilt.
  10. Face it: "One day" almost never comes.

p. 124 : Live your life on less by Lesley Alderman.  This articles gives 71 tips on how to cut corners without noticing.  Some the great ideas included;

p. 132 : Spring Trends 101 by Kristina Grish Fuchsia is a trend this year.  YES!  It's my trend every year...Another trend is the "boyfriend blazer", which is sooo cute.  The other trends listed are: grommets + studs {nice!}, jumpsuits {very nice}, nudes {the color/shade... woohoo!}, messenger handbag {who doesn't own one?}, snakeskin shoes {believe it or not}.

p. 142 : The five tastiest warehouse-club buys...

p. 165 : Five Easy Dinners

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February 16, 2009

Subscription Review {BONUS} : Real Simple Weddings 2009

My typical "subscription" review includes Real Simple Magazine, Martha Stewart Weddings, etc.  However, I decided I would do my own review of Real Simple Weddings 2009 the book, even though it's not typically a "subscription".  It's a special edition... therefore, my bonus! 

Realsimpleweddings09
vs.
Cover 

I was super-super excited to pick up this year's Real Simple Weddings, and I didn't even think about skimming through the pages.  As soon as I got home, I started to check out photos and some of the ideas, when I realized that most of the stuff in 2009's edition is almost identical to the 2008 Real Simple Weddings.  There are, however, some changes that include the: real weddings that are featured, as well as some other verbiage with regard to the checklists + planning tips. 

All in all, though, I'm glad I have them both!  Below is a breakdown of what you can expect from it.  I have included some of the resources you can check out online, as well as their links. 

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Realsimple2

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{these screenshots are courtesy of Crate & Barrel}

It features REAL WEDDINGS, like Viola's of Chewing the Cud.  {Photos below snagged from Style Me Pretty}


Chewing-the-cud-13

 

Chewing-the-cud-4

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