ERIN.VONDRA@GMAIL.COM / 773.484.0817

 

Fashion

07 Nov

Posted at 16:41h in Fashion, Gifts

While gifting season arrives and people are freaking out over order deadlines and how much stuff they can order asap, I am trying to be more intentional this year. Custom gifts can be that gesture that you really took the time to pick something special, regardless of the price tag. And if you are one of those people that want to cross off the giving list early, these ideas can cover a lot of people and arrive in plenty of time. As stressful as the holidays can be, the joy of a well thought out gift being opened by a loved one is really the best.

custom Christmas gifts
  1. Cutest Gingham Monogram Tote for all the things $99
  2. Monogram Bourbon & Cigar Glass for nights by the fire $25
  3. A pretty Monogramed Cake Stand to display your baked goods $60
  4. A Custom Shot Ski for your ugly sweater party host $30
  5. A fun Smily Face Initial Blanket $78
  6. A Custom Basketball for your sporty nephew $35
  7. A beautiful Monogramed Tote (comes in many colors) that she will cherish $398
  8. A classic Signet Ring engraved with her initials $220
  9. The softest Monogramed Pajamas $85
  10. A sweet Handpainted Mug you can have any name on
  11. A cozy Initial Pom Pom Hat for the long winter $39
  12. This Framed Photo Ornament is such a hit with grandparents $25
  13. What tween wouldn’t want this Custom Fanny Pack? $70
  14. A sweet way to wear your family Initials. Coin Necklace $38
  15. Custom Golf Balls & Tees because you know nee will use them $89
  16. This Initial Phone Case is fun for any age $72

27 Apr

Posted at 23:26h in Fashion

What do you like to do on Mother’s Day? I remember my mom selflessly giving up her entire weekend for my dance recitals most years, plus fancy brunches that were probably really hard to get us all dressed for, and lots of handmade cards. It is funny because even on the day that we are to celebrate Mom, it is usually a day that she still has to Mom pretty darn hard. So my wish each years to not do any momming. No cooking, no dishes, no deciding what anyone is eating, when they are eating, discipline of any variety, just a straight up turn off switch. THAT is a luxury that you really cannot deny. A nice gift also does not hurt. Large or small it is nice to be recognized and appreciated. So here are a few ideas you can send to the hubs, or even better just buy for yourself superMom.

  1. Heart earrings / 2. Blue Envelope Clutch / 3. Ruby Flower Ring / 4. A faux tree for the living room / 5. Silky Rainbow Stripe Pajamas / 6. Gold Face Sculptor / 7. Pink Sunnies / 8. A Latte Machine / 9. Summer Tote / 10. Gucci Slides / 11. Dyson Airwave / 12. A Wine Subscription / 13. Handknotted Lapis necklace / 14. Sun Hat / 15. Leather Apple Watch Band 

17 Feb

Posted at 05:23h in Fashion

While I have cherished my time with my sweatsuit sets enormously this last year, I am so ready to start really dressing again. And the outfits definitely need to have an ease to them as going from sweatsuits to real pants and tight dresses feels like too much. I think we are going to see a lot of elevated loungewear, more dressed up sneaker options, and lots of easy layers this coming season. Here are twelve outfits I pulled from Shopbop that I want to wear in the coming months and for getaways.

Sunglasses / Sweater Dress / Earrings / Leather Leggings (my favorite!) / Bag / Boots

Bag / Boots / Earrings / Sweater / Pants

Sweater / Shoes / Jeans (or these) / Sunglasses / Bag

Cover Up / Sunglasses / Bikini / Bag / Sandals

Jeans / Sweater / Sandals / Jacket

Jumpsuit / Sunglasses / Fanny Pack / Sneakers

Dress / Earrings / Bag / Sandals

Dress / Jacket / Sneakers / Huggies / Bag

Sweater / Boots / Gloves / Leggings / Coat / Tote

Dress / Sweater / Sandals / Necklace / Bag

Tunic Dress (or this one) / Sneakers / Bag / Leggings / Necklace / Sweater (or this one)

Dress (or this one) / Bag / Bracelets / Espadrilles

25 Jan

Posted at 05:41h in Beauty, Fashion, Home

After writing my Best Buys of 2020 post, I of course started to think of what is on my current wish list. This year I really want to try for quality over quantity. I also have a deal with myself right now that until I clean out my closet and kitchen, no new things! Sometimes you have to be reminded of what you have before you start thinking about the things you need next. But to motivate me, I have these things awaiting me in all my carts.

  1. There was way more cozy couch time in 2020 and I think I am going to leet that ride into 2021 with this weighted blanket $100
  2. I have a lot of different shearling boots, but Uggs are really the reigning champion of coziness. This pink pair is also just plain fun $170
  3. My current dinner routines could use an update and little more health, so this cookbook that I see everyone referencing on insta looks like the perfect fit $28
  4. A happy, soft sweater can really be the winter closet work horse that you reach for over and over. This stripe one is so cute $295
  5. My stemless wine glasses need an upgrade and nothing is more beautifully classic than a set of these La Rochere Tumblers $54 for 6
  6. I am late to the instant pot game and this one is also the device of the moment, an air fryer $179
  7. What to wear on house showings can be boring and this dress is at the top of my work wear wish list $228
  8. Pretty handpainted dinner plates seems necessary to switch up the 1000 meals I plated on white plates in the last year $38
  9. I have been eyeing this BeautyBio set for awhile. I love the idea of getting my products to help my skin even more. $329
  10. Slip on cozy shoes are all we need and these are cute enough to wear anytime, plus make me smile $295
  11. A stack of fun custom bangles seems like a bright spot for 2021 $62

xo

Erin

19 Jan

Posted at 06:24h in Beauty, Fashion, Home

Assessing what I bought and what I actually used is actually a really good way to understand how better to spend money each year. Keep in mind that in this space we are talking about the non-essentials, so any fun things we can buy are always a blessing. There were certainly many buys that I wish I could take back since they did not have longevity or I did not use/wear how I thought I would (hello cocktail dresses), but there were a few things that I would consider my best buys. This is always helpful since I can try to avoid spending Amy more money on those things I could have done without!

  1. I tried ALL the sweatsuits, and I mean ALL. The Aritizia Cozy AF Boyfriend sweat pant and crewneck sweatshirt is the BEST. Soft, thick, and a great price tag.
  2. I am 4 months into my GOOP vitamin regime and though I cannot say I notice some giant difference, I do notice when I am NOT taking them. The packs make it very convenient to take a bunch of vitamins I know are doing my body good.
  3. Adding in the Vintners Daughter Essence to my morning routine has made a huge change in my skin. This is an investment that I do not mind making because it paired with the Serum is magic. I notice clearer, toned, and more moisturized skin.
  4. This puff sleeve cotton sweater was worn 100 times. I wore it with sweat pants, with leggings, with jeans, and skirts. It tucks in nicely, but also falls to a flattering hip length. It is soft, does not pill, and does not cost a fortune.
  5. I know I have become house dress obsessed, but honestly I reached for this dress SO many times. I for sure want a couple more in different lengths because even though it is expensive, I wear it all the time. There is something SO luxurious about slipping on a silky caftan at the end of the day.
  6. These rope baskets were an Amazon find that I never knew I needed until I had them. I use them as catch alls in the house, for gift giving, for floral arrangements, and toy bins. I love them so much and keep ordering more!
  7. I gifted myself this rattan side table and I just worship it. It makes me smile every day and is just a happy little table. Contact me for ordering
  8. I have been on the hunt for a cute pair of undies that are not grandma-esque, have coverage, are invisible under clothing, and wash well. Basically the holy grail. Once I found this pack I have been ordering on repeat.
  9. A friend found these body sleeping bags and I live in mine. With so many things outside these days and my kids wanting me to “watch them play” in the cold, it is essential.
  10. Never did I ever think I would be into a luxury hair product, but this scalp scrub shampoo is worth every penny. It gets my hair super clean and lathers like a dream, plus this one jar lasts forever.
  11. So while I am not giving up two pieces, I can appreciate a one piece much more these days. This simple black suit is AMAZING. It has a slight low cut and has an open back to show off just enough skin, while also not being high cut on the leg or letting your buns hang out (why does every suit do this now?!). Plus, the material is doubled for a great smooth, sucked in feeling.
  12. My favorite audio book of the year was Daisy Jones and Six. So much so I want to listen to it again. And my favorite hard back book of the year was The Dutch House. I ate it up in a few sittings (when timed allowed!) and got lost in the story and quite frankly the idea of this grand house.

xo

Erin

22 Dec

Posted at 07:00h in Beauty, Fashion, Gifts, Home

I had posted a few of the recipes I have planned for this week on my Instagram and it sounds like you all could use some ideas too. With my favorite cooking partner, my mom, finally here to visit we have a lot of catch up cooking to do. I love a cozy week with lots of new recipes with a sprinkling of the traditions we hold dear. Here are the recipes we have on the agenda:

Appetizers:

Salami & Provolone Phyllo Dough Rolls: Give me all the melty cheese in dough

Cacio e Pepe Puffs: My Mom said you can make in advance and freeze!

Roasted Shrimp Cocktail: We bought the Trader Joe’s Sweet Chili sauce to dip to switch it up

Entrees:

Skillet Roasted Chicken: My mom swears this is a crowd pleaser. This Half Baked Harvest one I made last week is also such a one pan winner.

Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Green Peppercorn Sauce: having a hard time find the peppercorns, so might just make it without!

Truffle Mash Potatoes: Truffle butter makes everything extra special

Traditional Meatballs with Arrabiata Sauce: A casual comfy meal on Christmas Day is my favorite since I will still be in pajamas

Ultimate Garlic Bread: Because that spicy sauce is going to need something to dip in it. Love the addition of lemon zest.

Mini Wedge Salad Platter: An elegant way to serve something with ranch all over it

Breakfast:

Trader Joe’s Chocolate Croissants: Stock up and make them all break, they are the best. You can find in the frozen food section and the plain mini ones are also perfection.

Sour Cream Waffles: These are sacred in our family. Dreamy is an understatement and perfect with bacon and coffee

Dutch Baby with Apples & Cinnamon: I have never made one and excited to! Or at least watch my mom do it ha (recipe from Modern Comfort Food, not available online)

Dessert:

Christmas Tree Cake: We always make a birthday cake for Jesus for Christmas Eve and this one looks so cute! (image above)

Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies: I just love a soft sugar cookie. Lucky for me, my mom is a great baker and I am a good taste tester.

 

Would love to hear any recipes you are excited to try too. As far as I am concerned we will keep this up until break is over so I need more ideas!

xo

Erin

09 Dec

Posted at 05:41h in Beauty, Fashion, Gifts, Home

It seems that everyone is wanting to think outside the box this year on gifting, which I love. And with so many small businesses trying to make the season extra brighter the options have gotten more exciting. I wanted to put a little list together that would have gifts for anyone on your list that you may not have seen yet. Hopefully this helps with the rest of that list you have going.

  1. A custom travel tote with packing blocks she can look forward to packing $175
  2. Faux Shearling clogs is the only shoe/slipper they need $29
  3. The crazy at home facial the internet raves about $29 or get the whole set
  4. Dinner for 6 from Momofuku to your door $169
  5. Super fun Blue Light Blocking Glasses that also give back $42
  6. A Gray Malin Amalfi coast puzzle to remind them of their travels $25
  7. The Tesla of razors $19
  8. Who doesn’t need a sherpa fur onesie?! $41
  9. A rad all blacked out watch $135
  10. A Masterclass subscription to learn chess, tennis skills, cooking with masters, and business classes with the best of the best.
  11. Father & Son Boomba sock sets for their stockings $64
  12. Keith Herring Domino sees for the gamers $40
  13. For the outdoorsy dude, a flask that is also a flashlight $95
  14. A custom whiskey barrel to elevate the bar $85
  15. A custom family tree would be just the sweetest $65
  16. A weekly news magazine for little inquiring minds $49 for 25 Issues

xo

Erin

29 Nov

Posted at 15:30h in Beauty, Fashion, Gifts, Home

I was seriously on the fence on doing any gift guides this year. I know you are all inundated with so many ads and guides and it can be so noisy. Also, gifting feels different this year to me. Do you think so too? If I had to guess everyone will be more focused on the littles joys of cookie baking and tree trimming and snuggle holiday movie time than lots of gifts. It just feels more like another lesson coming from this year that it is the moments that matter, not the things.

But I did hear from some of you that you still love a few ideas, especially for teachers, helpers, and loved ones you may not be seeing this year. So here is a little list of gifts that support small shops and retailers, which I am really trying to look to first before going to a large retailer.

And if there are any lists you would like to see, please tell me and I will put it together because I love ya! Here are all the gift guides from years past if you need it.

small business gift guide under $50
  1. These custom tree toppers are the most fun and come in different finishes $50
  2. I LOVE these super soft organic pajamas. Especially this little heart print that gives back to Baby2Baby. $52
  3. All of the best Glossier make up for $40! You get to pick all the colors too. I wear the cloud paint every day, my favorite.
  4. How cool is this custom one line portrait drawing? You can print it on anything and make their day. She does Pets too! $19
  5. A custom initial necklace with endless options is always a winner $23-$55
  6. How cute is this custom craft rainbow? $26
  7. Who wouldn’t adore a leopard 2021 Planner? This company makes so many pretty prints $23
  8. This luxurious and insanely good smelling lotion and body wash is the perfect set. $50 total for both
  9. File under the cutest gift that is the most functional. These sweet food storage covers are such a cute little gift for your foodie friend. $19
  10. Love these custom Lego Trays for easy moving around $38
  11. These ankle weights are on my list and this site gives back with every purchase of any item! Buying these provide a care package for a pediatric chemo patient. $40 Make sure to check out the entire site.
  12.  I am so into a signet ring and this one is perfect $50

xo

Erin

16 Nov

Posted at 06:47h in Beauty, Fashion, Food

Are you getting excited for the holidays? I have been saving recipes and slowly starting to decorate and it is funny how it can spark such joy. I have some grand plans on cutting my own garland this year and being creative with the decor I have, but let’s see how far I get with that! In the meantime, this is what I am loving right now…

  1. Playing with the patches on the Stony Clover Lane site is half the fun. I think this could be a good design for much needed new tennis bag.
  2. How great are these sneakers boots? They also come in white and olive $245
  3. I just loved this book so much. Such a great, beautiful escape.
  4. I always have this truffle salt stocked and use it even more this time of year. Sprinkle it on popcorn, eggs, buttered pasta, mashed potatoes, and it makes it extra special. $20
  5. I cannot wait to see Mary in this sweet gingham dress for thee holidays $44
  6. Instagram ads finally got me with this Summersalt cashmere set. excited to curl up in all winter. $125-$95
  7. I’m pretty dedicated to La Croix, but this Strawberry Cucumber Aha is so delicious and refreshing.
  8. This family card game is a hit right now and makes a great gift. $20
  9. This Half Baked Harvest Chicken Gyro dinner was such a family hit and SO good.
  10. Was trying to switch up our usual holiday PJ routine, but I am loving a classic tartan I think best. On sale! $29
  11. Matt and I just finished the first season of Fargo and it is really good!
  12.  ordered this with my last reorder since it gets raves. Cannot wait to try it! $42

xo

Erin

05 Nov

Posted at 07:00h in Fashion

Even though there is not a lot of fun things to dress up for these days, we will always still need a warm coat to get us through the long ass winter. And since there is not a LOT to get excited about we can at least stay warm in something that is fun and interesting. You know the coat, the ones that get all the compliments when you throw it over your sweats to run out to grab take out. An interesting color, an unexpected fabric, or a gorgeous detail can take any old coat and make it something you are dying to put on. Even if it is below zero. Here is a round up of some great coats all under $300 (most way less!) that will keep you cozy and make you smile all winter long.

coats on a budget
  1. I own this coat and WORSHIP it, plus it is on sale! $227 / 2. A long soft sherpa $179  / 3. A super fun leopard puffer $148 / 4. Obsessed with the color block of this parka $228 / 5. A soft pretty blue top coat $268 / 6. A white teddy coat / 7. Love this faux leather puffer! $129 Also comes in black / 8. A gorgeous faux fur wrap coat $80 (comes in other colors) / 9. The softest hooded faux fur in white $275 / 10. This reversible faux shearling is so cute $150  / 11. A fun fringe top coat $189 / 12. A blue faux fur coat $128 (comes in other colors)

xo

Erin