Monday, February 6, 2023

The Soubrette Brunette's 10th Blogiversary Giveaway!

the soubrette brunette blog giveaway
the soubrette brunette blog giveaway

I cannot believe it's been 10 years since I started this blog.

Holy cow.

When I began toying with the idea of blogging, I just wanted a way to show off all my outfits and stay creative when I wasn't performing. This space still fulfills those desires, but it's become a much more important part of my life than I anticipated.

And although some things haven't changed much (like my love of pink dresses and novelty prints, for example), I look back and see a lot of growth.

Both my photos and my poses have improved a lot (thank goodness). But beyond that, my career trajectory and priorities have shifted. My relationships have grown and evolved. People have entered and exited my life. I've loved and lost. I moved into my own apartment. I started a business. I bought a house. 

Things look different than I thought they would. But I'm grateful for that. And I'm grateful that you've joined me on the journey. I can't wait to see where it takes us next.

the soubrette brunette
You've come a long way, baby.

Of course, it wouldn't be a blogiversary without a big giveaway. I racked my brain for weeks to figure out what the prizes would be for this momentous occasion. Then, I thought: why not curate a prize package based on my most important memories and events from the last decade?

I think I've outdone myself with this year's prize package, if I do say so myself. It's a big giveaway for a big milestone! This awesome prize package is a little sentimental and a little symbolic – but I hope you'll love all these goodies as much as I do. 

There are prizes to represent my theatre background, my cat, my jobs, my hometown, my portrait photography business (Dear Blossom Studios), my house and garden, things I love doing (like fruit picking and going to Trader Joe's), and things I've learned, as well as my blog and the important relationships I've formed with so many brands and creatives over the years. I think it's a pretty good representation of what The Soubrette Brunette is all about. 

With that, here's a breakdown of the important stuff: what's up for grabs and how to enter the giveaway!

the soubrette brunette giveaway

One (1) winner will receive:

  • Kate Gabrielle white Ella cupholder purse
  • $50 gift card to Heart of Haute
  • Winner's choice of Sophie skirt from Timeless London
  • Betsey Johnson pink camera necklace
  • Rifle Paper Company floral journal
  • House of Disaster house-shaped planter
  • I Heart Revolution Tasty Peach eyeshadow palette
  • Break an Egg!: The Broadway Cookbook
  • Pink ceramic cat mug and spoon set
  • "Sip Tea and Set Boundaries" sticker 
  • Typewriter and telephone salt & pepper set
  • Lilac flower lapel pin
  • Assorted snacks from Trader Joe's
Yes, 1 person will win ALL of those prizes! But if you want to win, you need to pay attention to the following guidelines. 
As per usual, participants must enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below. (If you have trouble getting it to load, please try on desktop instead of your mobile device!)

** You MUST complete ALL REQUIRED ENTRIES to be eligible to win. I'm a stickler about this and will make sure you've done them all. I've disqualified a lot of folks in the past for not following directions! :( So be sure to triple check that you've done everything you need to! **

This giveaway is open worldwide and will close on 11:59 PM EST on Sunday, February 12, 2023. One (1) winner will be chosen at random through the widget and contacted via email (and not through any other platform). Remember to include a valid email address in your blog post comment; anonymous commenters must identify themselves so I can contact them! The winner must respond to my email within 48 hours of being contacted or a new winner will be chosen. Once confirmed, the winner will be displayed via the widget. 

This giveaway is hosted and sponsored by The Soubrette Brunette, with generous contributions made by my friends at Kate Gabrielle, Heart of Haute, and Timeless London. Note that in the event of stock or availability issues, comparable prize selections may be made.

I can't thank you all enough for your support over the past decade. Best of luck and lots of love!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

The Single Girl's Survival Guide to Valentine's Day

Being single isn't always easy. And being single on Valentine's Day? That can be even tougher. It's something I used to dread. I'd do anything to prevent being alone on February 14. And then... something changed. 

After spending a few years in an unhealthy relationship where I gave too much and received almost nothing in return, I realized that sometimes being on your own is actually a lot less painful than trying to keep things together with someone else. I'd so much rather be single and at peace than coupled up in chaos.

Still, Valentine's Day for singles can sound depressing. But after spending last year's Hallmark holiday completely on my own, I have to report that it was actually pretty blissful. That surprised me at the time. I took steps to make it feel special, but I wasn't really expecting to enjoy myself quite so much. And now, I'm actually looking forward to being single on Valentine's Day again this year.

After all, love isn't just for romantic relationships – and there's so much more to life than that one type of partnership. So if you're looking for ways to celebrate Valentine's Day when you're single, I'm sharing what I learned (and what I did) so you can reclaim this day and find the joy in it. 

My Single Girl's Survival Guide for Valentine's Day


single girl's guide to valentine's day

Treat Yourself Like You're Your Own Soulmate

I've been single for 4+ years now, but I think I've figured out why last year was the best Valentine's Day I've ever had: No one knows what I like more than I do! I can always count on me to buy my favorite candy or my favorite flowers. If I buy myself a little gift, I know I'll be thrilled to receive it. And if I make my own plans, I never have to worry about being let down. 

If you want to know how to celebrate Valentine's Day single as a Pringle, treat yourself like you're your own soulmate. Buy your own chocolate and bouquet. Get yourself a gift that you might not otherwise buy for yourself. Make plans that you'll love, even if there isn't anyone in your life to experience them with you. Don't wait on someone else to make you happy. You can do that just as well (if not better) for yourself.

Create Your Hype Girl Playlist

Music is incredibly powerful. The right song can instantly lift my spirits. So whether you're feeling a little down or just want to keep the party going, I highly recommend making a single on Valentine's Day playlist to carry you through.

I'm outing myself as a grandma here, but I don't use Spotify. (I literally still buy songs on iTunes – sue me.) Regardless of how you listen to your music, curate or find a playlist that makes you feel confident, empowered, and joyful. Here are some songs that are guaranteed to pump me up:

"Good as Hell" – Lizzo
"I'm Every Woman" – Chaka Khan
"Made You Look" – Megan Trainor
"Get Into It (Yuh)" – Doja Cat
"Man! I Feel Like a Woman" – Shania Twain
"No Scrubs" – TLC
"Who Do You Think You Are" – Spice Girls
"B*tch" – Meredith Brooks
"Savage" – Megan Thee Stallion
"abcdefu" – Gayle
"Hit 'Em Up Style (Oops)" – Blu Cantrell
"Shake It Off" – Taylor Swift
"Up"  – Cardi B
"Shout Out To My Ex" – Little Mix
"Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" – Cyndi Lauper
"Push It" – Salt-N-Peppa
"Barbie Girl" – Aqua
"Run the World (Girls)" – Beyonce
"Lady Marmalade" – Christina Aguilera, et al
"When I Grow Up" – Pussycat Dolls
"King of Anything" – Sara Bareilles
"Perfect Day" – Hoku

What tunes did I miss? Let me know what songs you'd add to this playlist in the comments!

Make a Spread of Your Favorite Foods

When some people picture being single on Valentine's Day, they might think of eating a sad frozen dinner. That doesn't have to be your fate! While getting your favorite takeout (or an overpriced heart-shaped pizza) is an awesome option, I also like going the charcuterie-board-and-lots-of-desserts route. That's what I did last year and it felt super festive! I definitely went a bit overboard and got way more food than one person could possibly eat... but then I had leftovers for the rest of the week! Indulging in a favorite food – especially if it's not something you have all the time – can be a great way to celebrate being single on Valentine's Day. Think of it this way: you don't have to compromise on a restaurant or cook a big meal (unless you want to!). You'll get exactly what you want without having to consider anyone else. 


Watch an Uplifting (or Distracting) Movie

Watching a movie is one of my favorite ways to relax. But when you're a single woman on Valentine's Day, you might feel like avoiding conventional rom-coms and films that end in happily ever after. I'm at a point where I can enjoy watching a good love story at any time, but I wanted to share a bunch of movies to watch on Valentine's Day when you're single to distract you from reality (or give you hope for the future).

  • The First Wive's Club
  • Music & Lyrics
  • Austenland
  • Mrs. Henderson Presents
  • Amelie
  • The Break-Up
  • The Parent Trap
  • Never Been Kissed
  • Mean Girls
  • Charlie's Angels
  • Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris
  • Ocean's 11
  • Legally Blonde
  • Miss Congeniality
  • 9 to 5
  • The Italian Job
  • Practical Magic
  • Ever After
  • Romy & Michele's High School Reunion
  • Knives Out
  • Julie & Julia
  • The Birdcage
  • Miss Pettigrew Lives For a Day
  • Spice World
  • My Big Fat Greek Wedding
  • Clueless
  • That Thing You Do!
  • Drop Dead Gorgeous
  • See How They Run

Set Aside Time For Yourself

Since Valentine's Day is on a Tuesday this year, you might have to work for most of the day. I have more flexibility with my schedule, so I like to end my workday a little early and schedule some activities to avoid doom-scrolling or being too tired after 8 hours in front of the computer. This year, I might give myself enough time to take a hot shower, do a bit of pampering, assemble my snacky spread, and select my entertainment for the night.

Even if you can't duck out early, don't treat the plans you made with yourself as an afterthought! When you're a single woman on Valentine's Day, you should prioritize what makes you feel your best. If you're planning to celebrate the weekend before, mindfully carve out some quality alone time. Surrounding yourself with friends or family can be helpful, but I eventually realized I was doing that out of fear. Once I actually took away the distractions, I was able to enjoy myself a lot more. It can feel scary at first (especially if you're not accustomed to being alone), but now I prefer it.

Wear the Comfiest Clothes

I love dressing up more than just about anyone. But if I'm planning to stay home by yourself on Valentine's Day, I'm all about being comfortable. I'm talking fleecy pajama pants, an oversized tee, a soft robe, and slippers. For something like this, a hoodie + leggings > a new dress. Of course, I still like to stay on-theme when I'm in lounging attire... but you don't have to follow suit. :) I think I'll be wearing these Old Navy heart pajamas this year! 

Don't Make it Mean Everything

Truly celebrating Valentine's Day when you're single can feel impossible at first. But really, it's just another day. It's not a reflection on your worth or on how desirable and lovable you are. I promise. Don't fall into that trap. 

Being a single woman on Valentine's Day doesn't mean you've failed or that you should be ashamed of where you are in life. I've struggled with feeling this way a lot in the past. But remember: you never know what's going on behind closed doors. That "perfect" relationship you're envying might not be so idyllic. And getting the chance to connect with yourself and prioritize your wants and needs is priceless.

If nothing else, you will survive being single on Valentine's Day. Even if it sucks, at least you'll have some chocolate and be wearing sweatpants. But it doesn't have to suck quite so much if you have this single girl's survival guide on-hand. And when you don't feel much like showing yourself some love, just know that I'm sending lots of it your way. 

old navy heart pajamas

Friday, January 27, 2023

Friday Favorites #166: Valentine's Day 2023

 It may be hard to believe, but Valentine's Day is right around the corner! While I don't have time to put together Friday Favorites posts as frequently anymore, I had to gather up a collection of cute things I've been lusting after for February 14. Take a look at what's on my wishlist below. 

Please note that this post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, I may earn a small commission (which helps to run my blog and social media channels) at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Soubrette Brunette!

valentine's day finds valentine wishlist


a.  love letters candle
b.  Miss Valentine tree
c.  Trixie Cosmetics heart-shaped handheld mirror
d.  fuzzy heart robe
e.  heart print babydoll dress
f.  heart-shaped picnic basket
g.  Colourpop blush
h.  Betsey Johnson box of chocolates purse
i.  blush pink boater hat
j.  Colourpop heart-shaped face stamp
k.  Be Mine Valentine quick escape coat
l.  Jessakae Sweetheart Dress
m.  Too Faced lipstick
n.  Irregular Choice "Bee Mine" heels

Whether you want to treat yourself or someone else, I hope your Valentine's Day is a sweet one!

Sunday, January 15, 2023

Where to Find My Favorite Christmas Gifts of 2022

I'm sharing an Instagram reel today that features some of my favorite Christmas gifts I received this holiday season. Since a lot of people ask me where I get things (and since a lot of us have similar taste!), I wanted to provide links for the items that are still available. Some of these are dupes or can only be found on resale sites, but I did manage to track down similar or exact items for everything featured! Please note that there are a few affiliate links featured, which means I can earn a small commission (at no cost to you!) if you do make a purchase.

favorite christmas gifts vintage bloggers
 

1. April Cornell lilac plaid tablecloth and matching napkins
2. Ryka training shoes
3. Gold starburst glassware (similar)
4. Cath Kidston West End travel wallet
5. Johanna Parker cream and sugar set
6. Mickey and Minnie holiday baking dish
7. Little Women book locket

What's a favorite present you received (or gave!) during the holidays this year?

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

The Soubrette Brunette's 2022 Holiday Gift Guides

2022 holiday gift guide

The Soubrette Brunette's Holiday Gift Guides 2022

It's official: my holiday gift guides are back this year! I've scoured the internet looking for fun gift ideas and have created The Soubrette Brunette's Holiday Gift Guides: 2022 Edition with all my finds! Be sure to check out my previous holiday gift guides (from 2019, 2020, and 2021, as well as my HSP gift guide) for even more gifting inspo.

holiday gift guide 2022

Without further ado, onto the holiday gift guides for this year – where you'll find plenty of Jane Austen gift ideas, lots of coffee lover gifts and gifts for foodies, gifts for sensitive people and people pleasers, plenty of kitschy gifts and gifts for bakers, and fun coworker gift ideas!

Please note that this post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, I may earn a small commission (which helps to run my blog and social media channels) at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Soubrette Brunette! Now, let's get shopping!


Gifts For Jane Austen Fans

As someone who has fully immersed herself in the world of Pride and Prejudice this season, I had to put together a list of Jane Austen gifts for others who are just as Mr. Darcy-obsessed. Check out my Jane Austen gift ideas for any classic literary fiend, romantic feminist, or Regency era history buff in your life.

Jane Austen gifts

a.  Jane Austen's Table recipe book
b.  Pemberly lapel pin
c.  Jane Austen's finest lip balm
d.  Jane Austen quote pouch
e.  Heat-changing Jane Austen finery mug 
f.  Austenite tea bundle
g.  I heart Mr. Darcy keychain
h.  Marrying Mr. Darcy card game
i.  Jane Austen socks
j.  Sense and Sensibility purse (+ other book purses)
k.  Jane Austen novel coasters
l.  Color Me Jane coloring book for adults
m.  Polite Society: The Jane Austen Board Game
n.  Paddywax Jane Austen candle
o.  Society of Obstinate Headstrong Girls tote


Gift Ideas For Coffee Lovers, Tea Drinkers, and Full-Blown Foodies

Seeking great gifts for a foodie? Need some highly caffeinated coffee lover gifts or gifts for tea drinkers on your list? Look no further than this next gift guide, which includes Christmas gifts for foodies, gifts for tea lovers to savor, and gifts for any coffee lover who needs a midday pick-me-up. 

Great gifts for a foodie

1.  Honey bear apron

Cottagecore Gifts for the Coziest Homesteader

While true rural life is no picnic, I'm definitely drawn to the style of these cottagecore gifts! Whether you've got an animal lover in the family, a friend who loves antiques and thrift finds, or a coworker who'd love to live off the grid and homestead full-time, check out these cottagecore gift ideas for something with a bit of whimsy and wonder. (I may or may not need to add some of these cottagecore Christmas gifts to my own wish list this year!)

Cottagecore gift ideas

Gifts for Sensitive People, Givers, and Recovering People Pleasers

I know firsthand how hard it can be to stop people pleasing. But once you start putting your own needs first and setting boundaries, it feels good to keep going. Refer to this guide when looking for self care gifts for loved ones who need to stop people pleasing or who chronically over-give in their relationships. I've even included a people pleaser book or two that I'd love to receive myself! These can also make great gifts for sensitive people, codependent folks, or loved ones who could use a reminder that they are worthy.

People pleaser book and other gift ideas


Gifts for Kitschy Queens

To me, there's nothing more satisfying than kitschy gifts. While these gifts might considered by some to be in poor taste or otherwise tacky, kitschy Christmas gifts are the perfect way to appeal to a specific sense of humor. If your loved one tends to gravitate towards kitschy gift ideas for others, use this gift guide to return the favor and give them something they'll adore (ironically or sincerely!). 

Kitschy Christmas gifts

a.  Ugly sweater plates

Gift Ideas for Aspiring Star Bakers

Do you know someone who never misses an episode of Bake Off? Or is someone you love in the running for Star Baker in your heart? I've put together some of the best gifts for bakers, as well as a handful Great British Baking Show gifts for those who'd rather watch the show than present their own show-stopper. 

Gifts for bakers

1.  Joyeux Noel t-shirt
2.  Cactus measuring spoons
3.  Whisk necklace
4.  Apple pie dish
5.  Rolling pin
6.  Pie bird
7.  100 Cookies baking book
8.  Star Baker apron
9.  The Great British Baking Show game
10.  Martha Stewart glass cake stand
11.  Baking socks
12.  Recipe tin
13.  Henrietta Hedgehog baking pin
14.  Mixer earrings
15.  Bake Off tent print

Favorite Coworker Gift Ideas

Whether you work remotely or you're back in the office, a good coworker is worth their weight in gold. I've compiled these Christmas gifts for coworkers who are always there for a gossip session, to lend a hand on a big project, or to be a sounding board when you're on the clock. These coworker gift ideas will bring a smile to their face while expressing your appreciation.

Gifts for coworkers


I hope my Jane Austen gift ideas, Christmas gifts for foodies, cottagecore gifts, gifts for sensitive people, kitschy gift ideas, Great British Baking Show gifts, and coworker gift ideas will help you find the perfect presents for the loved ones on your list this year! Happy shopping!

Friday, November 25, 2022

Black Friday Favorites 2022 + Black Friday Coupon Codes!

Although I won't be going to any in-person Black Friday sales this year, you know I've always got your online Black Friday discounts covered! Take a look below at some of the items that will be making their way into my shopping cart this year... and read on for your Black Friday coupon code guide! I'll be adding to this list as brands reveal their discounts, so be sure to check back or let me know about any Black Friday coupon code that I missed!

Please note that this post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, I may earn a small commission (which helps to run my blog!) at no cost to you. I link only to items and brands I genuinely love. Thank you for supporting The Soubrette Brunette!


a   ||   b   ||   c   ||   d   ||   e   ||   f   ||   g
h   ||   i   ||   j   ||   k   ||   l

Black Friday Sale 2022 – Black Friday Discount Codes for Sammi's Favorite Brands

Abercrombie & Fitch: get 30% off everything
Aerie: 40% off the Aerie collection + 10/$35 all undies
Anthropologie: 30% off everything (excluding select items)
ASOS: almost 80% off everything
B.A.I.T. Footwear: up to 80% off sitewide
ban.do: 35% off everything with code TAKE35
Betsey Johnson: 35% off sitewide with code BLACKFRIDAY
Be My Clementine: Get a free potholder with any holiday print product purchase
Beauty Bakerie: 40% off sitewide
Box Lunch: 30% off sitewide + up to 50% off holiday doorbusters
Cath Kidston: up to 60% off select items + an extra 15% off everything
Chronicle Books: 35% off with code GIVEBOOKS
Clarks: 40% off sitewide with code GIFT40
Colourpop Cosmetics: 30% off sitewide
Emily & Fin: 25% off new season items with code TREAT25
Erstwilder: 30% off hundreds of designs + free gift with purchase
Francesca's: 50% off including clearance
Girlfriend Collective: 35% off sitewide 
GOODAFTERNINE: 30% off 
Heart of Haute: 25% off sitewide
Hill House Home: 30% off with code 30FORYOU
Irregular Choice: at least 20% off everything (excluding Christmas and collabs)
Ivy City Co: up to 60% off select items
J. Crew: 50% off your purchase with code SHOPEARLY
JessaKae: up to 70% off
Joanie Clothing: 40% off everything 
Kate Spade: up to 50% off everything with code BLACKFRIYAY
Kirkland's Home: up to 50% off Christmas + up to 30% off everything else
La Femme en Noir: 35% off sitewide with code BACKTOBLACK
Lulu's: extra 50% off all sale items with code BF50
Mackenzie-Childs: cyber week deals + free shipping
Madewell: 40% off your purchase with code OHJOY
ModCloth: 40% off sitewide with code FRIYAY40
Modern Millie: 15% off sitewide with code JOY15
Old Navy: 60% off deals
Out of Print: BOGO tees with code BF2022
The Pretty Dress Company: 30% off everything with code FRIDAY30
Printfresh: 25% off with code PEACE
Retrolicious: 30% off sitewide
Retrospec'd: 30% off everything
Rifle Paper Company: 30% off everything
Sarsparilly: 50% off the Cosmic Girl collection
Selkie: up to 40% off previous collections + 25% off signature styles + holiday/early restock deals all weekend
Sephora: daily cyber week deals
shopDisney: 30% off sitewide with code MAGIC + free shipping on orders $75+
Sourpuss Clothing: 30% off sitewide with code BLACK
Steady Clothing: 25% off everything with code HOLIDAY22
Tatyana: 50% off sitewide with code FRIDAY50
Too Faced: 30% off sitewide + an extra 10% off your order with code EXTRA104U
Trashy Diva: 30% off sitewide
Trixie Cosmetics: up to 30% off sitewide
Ulta: $10 off any $40+ purchase with code THANKS22 + lots of other deals
Unique Vintage: 40% off sitewide + daily deals
Vendula London: up to 60% off select items
Vixen by Micheline Pitt: 35% off sitewide with code BACKTOBLACK
World Market: Black Friday deals


Happy Shopping!



Sunday, October 23, 2022

The Soubrette Brunette's Enchanted Birthday Giveaway! [CLOSED]

The Soubrette Brunette's enchanted birthday giveaway

I'm turning 34 on Friday, but I'm starting the celebrations early with my annual birthday giveaway! This year, I've gone with a mystical, enchanted theme for all my ethereal and magical followers. Read on to find out what's up for grabs this time!

enchanted birthday blog giveaway

This year's winner will receive a curated prize package of otherworldly goodies, including:

  • Dreamland skirt from she and reverie
  • Colourpop Hocus Pocus 2 eyeshadow palette
  • "In the Mushroom Forest" print by Art of Stephanie Marie
  • "What's your sign?" horoscope game
  • Vintage witch composition notebook
  • Cat tarot cards and guidebook 
  • Flower fairies postcard book
  • Herbal scented candles
  • Mushroom mug
  • Moon and star necklace
Honestly, I wish I could keep all these prizes for myself! But I'm just as happy to send them to one of you. Here's how you could potentially win them!


Enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below. If you're unable to enter via mobile, please try on a desktop or laptop! One (1) winner will be chosen to win the prize package pictured and described above. (In the event of product unavailability, comparable substitutions may be made.) 

You must complete ALL required entries in order to be eligible. (Yes, I do check!) In particular, make sure the name included in your comment matches your email address or the name you've used to sign in. I cannot count entries for users marked "unknown" or that I can't verify!

This giveaway is open worldwide and will run from now until 11:59 PM EST on Saturday, October 29, 2022. The winner will be chosen at random through the widget and will be contacted via email, so remember to provide a valid email address in your blog post comment! The winner must respond within 48 hours of being contacted to claim their prizes and coordinate their receipt. If no response is received, a new winner will be chosen. The winner will be announced via the widget once confirmed. This giveaway is hosted by The Soubrette Brunette with sponsored prizes courtesy of she and reverie; no other brands or businesses are officially affiliated with this giveaway, including Instagram and Facebook. 

Thank you for entering (and for spending another year with me)! Best of luck!