Garden Party

Summer may be on its last legs, but I'm not ready to bid farewell to floral prints quite yet. This beautiful dress is from Trashy Diva's new "Garden Party" collection and I was eager to try out a cut I hadn't owned yet – the Norma Jean. I had to be a bit brave in this one, as it's definitely on the revealing side (something to keep in mind for fellow busty gals). But it's seriously so pretty and can easily transition into the colder months with the addition of a cardigan. Although I ordered my now-normal TD size in this one, keep in mind that the waist is firm and the bust is shallow. If you want a bit more breathing room and are on the cusp, I'd recommend ordering a size up. 

I had to be a bit brave taking these photos, too. I love the Maplewood Rose Garden, but I'd never been there alone before. It's actually located in an area I wouldn't necessarily feel comfortable walking around in (it's a really strange juxtaposition to have these beautiful grounds directly surrounded by stores and honking cars), so I usually bring someone along when I come here. That ended up not being possible, which made me anxious, but I went anyway. I'm glad I did. As long as your safety isn't at risk, stepping outside your comfort zone is an important exercise.

Although the print on this dress is actually geraniums, I knew this flowery backdrop would complement them well. These roses are almost gone, so I'm happy I had the chance to capture some of the blooms that remain. It's another reminder that the seasons will soon be changing – something I'm not quite ready to admit. I always have trouble letting go of summer. Stick around just a little longer, please!

Outfit Details

Norma Jean Circle Dress in Garden Party: Trashy Diva

Necklace: vintage (similar)

Shoes: Toni Pons (similar)

Have a wonderful start to your week!

Blueberries For Sal

As you may have realized, I've been planning most of my summer excursions around fruit picking. It's one of my favorite things to do. I love supporting local farms and orchards (and having fresh produce is always a plus), but I mostly enjoy having any excuse to spend time outside. I'm not a religious person, nor do I really identify as spiritual... but communing with nature is the way I feel close to something more than myself and it's sort of my gratitude practice, in a way. I never really thought about it in those terms until I started to write this post, but it makes sense that I would do everything possible to make time for it – especially when these warm days are so precious here.

Fruit picking also gives me the chance to spend time with people I love (and to dress thematically!). My mom and I had the chance to go blueberry picking during evening hours, which was a nice change. The experience reminded me of the picture book Blueberries For Sal – my mom's name is Sally and I have fond memories of us doing things like this as a kid. Of course, I had to wear this blueberry print dress from Collectif for the occasion. You know I can't resist a fruity novelty print frock!

Outfit Details

Mainline Eliza Blueberries Swing Dress: Collectif (other style here)

Necklace: similar  ||  Flats: similar

On a separate note, thank you so much to everyone who reached out to express their support for my newest venture, Dear Blossom Studios. In case you missed the big announcement, you can read all about it here. And be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram if you haven't already! You are all truly the best and I'm so excited about what's to come. Being able to focus on something new and creative has made all the difference these past few months. That's always been how I've gotten through heartbreak in the past and it feels apt that my newest project is all about blossoming and coming into one's own. 

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Dear Blossom Studios

I've been hinting over the past few months that I had something exciting in the works... and I can finally reveal what it is! My close friend and frequent collaborator, Emma, and I are starting a new venture: Dear Blossom Studios, a photography and content creation space located in the heart of the Flower City (our hometown of Rochester, NY)!

Both Emma and I have always loved the opportunity to take natural, captivating photos and to tell compelling stories through those images. We decided on the name Dear Blossom Studios to indicate our connection to nature and our desire to help others blossom into their best selves in front of the camera. I'm totally enamored with the name and with our branding, especially since I think it fits so perfectly with both of us individually and as a pair.

We've been working so hard to bring this beautiful space to life and to get everything ready to launch today. Our studio has two separate rooms and several great spots for shooting. We're starting out with senior portraits, headshots, and branding sessions, but we have a bunch of other fun offerings in the works to be launched in the near future. I'm also planning on using the studio space for my own photoshoots, videos, and brand content creation. I'm so excited for all of the possibilities and about working on something new and creative!

It would mean the world to me if you would check out our website, follow our Instagram, like our Facebook page, or share our posts with friends and family. Even if you're not based in Rochester or the surrounding area, your support can make a huge difference. (Plus, Emma often travels to photograph weddings and other events – so it's entirely possible that we could work together, no matter where you're located!) And if you have any questions, suggestions, or want to book a session, please don't hesitate to email us at hello@dearblossomstudios.com! 

It's been a tough year, but it's appropriate that I feel like I'm blossoming, too.

Monet at Mirbeau

Last month, my mom and I had a much-needed girls' getaway weekend in Skaneateles. Even though it's relatively close by, it was so nice to escape for a couple of days. We stayed at Mirbeau, a beautiful inn and spa, and treated ourselves to massages, luxurious baths, and delicious food. One of the real highlights for me, however, was getting to spend time in their gorgeous gardens.

We arrived just before the end of peony season, which made for a beautiful backdrop. The gardens are modeled loosely after Monet's gardens at Giverny (which is on my bucket list to see in real life someday), so I had to pack these two waterlily dresses from Bernie Dexter to match my surroundings.

Outfit Details

Dresses: Bernie Dexter (similar here)

Cropped cardigan: available here

Necklace: Macy's  ||  Hair flower: similar

White sandals: Naturalizer

I've been determined to make some great memories this summer – and this trip was certainly one of my favorites so far. The weeks are actually flying by and I was worried that I'd spend a lot of time being sad that this summer is so different from last year. But I'm realizing that's not such a bad thing after all. And while I still have bouts of feeling lonely and depressed, I mostly feel encouraged and excited about what's on the horizon. And lucky. I can't forget that.