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12.30.2016

2017 Resolutions

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As we get ready to go into 2017, I look back on this past year and truly think that it has been one of the best yet. Though there have been a lot of challenges, there has also been so much joy and I think this was the year that I really focused on what is important. Instead of harping on all of the areas in my life I wish I could change or want to change, I focused on my many MANY blessings. I think practicing positivity and patience was my mantra this year and I hope to carry that into all the years to come. One thing I know for sure is that 2017 will surely top all other years because I am marrying my best friend in April. Without further ado, jumping into my resolutions for 2017:

Personal Resolutions
1.) Stay calm and collected as the wedding approaches. I know myself and I have a tendency to let my stress get out of hand. I just need to tell myself that things can and will go wrong but all that matters at the end of the day is that I'm marrying Steven surrounded by friends and family!
2.) Be a kick-butt wife! Aside from the wedding, 2017 is going to be a huge year for Steven as he approaches graduating his PhD program in the winter. I know he will be under so much pressure so I just want to be a source for support. With graduation, he'll obviously begin the job search and honestly, that could land us anywhere in the country. I'm staying totally open to all possibilities because I want him to have the best career opportunity no matter where the location.
3.) TRAVEL. There have been a few obstacles for Steven and I to travel a lot in the past few years. The first being his schedule with school. Though he doesn't graduate until winter, he'll be done with classes after the spring so we're both hoping to travel a lot more between 2017 and 2018. The other obstacle has been my fear of flying. Even though it still gives me anxiety when I think about air travel, I feel like my trip to California this year REALLY helped me feel more confident about longer flights. We are planning a London/Scotland trip either in fall or winter and we also really want to plan a tropical trip AND a ski trip.
4.) Focus on mental & physical health. I really want to work on coping better with anxiety which is something that I haven't discussed at all on the blog before but it's been a struggle for the last 6 or 7 years. Whether that means finding more natural remedies or talking to a third party, that needs to become a priority for me. I also have been SO into health and fitness towards the later half of this year so I want to definitely carry that into 2017. I feel like I have a pretty good "diet" routine going and with that I am seeing more results at the gym! Not to mention, working out has definitely helped a ton with anxiety and stress. 
5.)  Take the leap and pursue happiness. What I mean by this is that with Steven being in school and also with wedding planning I haven't really been able to pursue certain passions of mine. To be more specific, I'm hoping to take a few graphic design courses next year and we will see where that takes me!

Blog Resolutions
1.) Focus on my brand. This sort of goes hand in hand with number 5 but I have seen my blog grow in such a positive direction over the last year. I'll be the first to admit that one area I really need to improve on is social media. For the first year of my blog, I hardly posted at all on Instagram so that was something I really REALLY worked on this year! I'm hoping to continue outreach with social media, create a media kit this year, and also I really want to explore other platforms. This leads me into #2.
2.) Create video content. This was on my resolutions list last year and unfortunately, this is one resolution I definitely didn't fulfill. The first half of the year we were in our apartment which had NO good filming space and then we were getting settled into the house while wedding planning really kicked into high gear. No more excuses though--I'm hoping to try to film my first video this weekend! Not sure how long editing will take since I have rarely used any video editing software but look out for it sometime in January! Goal is to post a video once a month to start.

I just want to thank you all again for supporting Rosy Outlook and for stopping by my little space on the internet. This blog has been such a bright spot in my life for the last year and a half and I can't wait to see where it goes from here. I'm always so open to feedback and would love to hear any suggestions you have to help improve my blog content! Hope you guys have an awesome New Year's and I'll see you in 2017!

12.28.2016

My Holiday Outfit + Fashion Frenzy Link-Up

Sweater: Zara, Skirt: Express, Booties: Steve Madden, Bag: Vince Camuto (sold out, finally found almost identical dupe here)
Happy Wednesday guys! Hope you enjoyed your Christmas with loved ones and hopefully you got a lot of relaxation time in. Since I was off on Friday and Monday, I was able to totally relax in between all the crazy family get-togethers. Saturday night, we went out to dinner with the family and my parents slept over. I got my dad hooked on Stranger Things because I think everyone should be! Sunday, we did brunch at my aunt's house and a lot of family came over. The food was SO yummy and the mimosas were flowing! Monday, I decided to take a day off from posting so Steven and I could just hang out and we went to see the new Star Wars movie in IMAX. I'm not going to lie, I'm really not a big Star Wars fan (Steven is pretty die hard) but the movie was SO good.

This is the exact outfit I wore out to dinner on Christmas Eve and I'm pretty much obsessed. This skirt from Express is going to be so versatile and perfect to wear to work! And can we talk about this chenille sweater? I don't know if it would be classified as chenille or velvet but either way, the material is HEAVENLY. So soft and cozy and the color is this gorgeous shiny olive. I'm totally in love. Also, I think this look would work so well for NYE too!

Jumping into this week's link-up! [Also linking up with B Loved BostonThe Blended Blog, Trend Spin, and Layers & Lipstick]


12.23.2016

SUPER Last Minute Gift Ideas!

Socks (1,2), Agenda, Amazon Echo, Throw, Candle, Pencil Set, Coloring Book, Slippers, Nail Polish Set
Happy Christmas Eve Eve! Today officially begins my Christmas vacation--it's a short one this year but I'm still excited for a long weekend. All my Christmas shopping is done but I was picking up a few last minute things up until last night!

I wanted to put together a gift guide of items that are all pretty easy to attain on such short notice! Most of these are from Target, Amazon, or Nordstrom but honestly, you can probably find all of them at Target or a department store just different brands. Everyone loves cozy items like socks, slippers and a throw blanket. You could even do all 3 for someone special and it would be the cutest "cozy" themed gift! Adult coloring books and planners are always a cute idea too. I personally am a huge fan of both!

I hope this gives you guys some last minute inspiration if you're still on the hunt for those final few gifts. I haven't decided whether I will be doing a post on Monday or not but I'll definitely be back on Wednesday! Hope you enjoy every minute of Christmas with your loved ones!
12.21.2016

My Favorite Parka + Fashion Frenzy Link-Up!

Parka: Missguided (also here), Tee: BP, Jeans: Hudson, Booties: Aldo, Bag: Tory Burch
Happy Wednesday! Hope y'all are having an awesome week so far. The countdown is down to only a few days until Christmas and it's flying by! As far as work goes, I'm working from home tomorrow and taking off Friday, then we have the holiday on Monday so it will be a nice long weekend. We typically go to the National Harbor every Christmas Eve for dinner but this year since the casino opened up, we have heard horror stories about the traffic so we are going to go out to dinner near the house. On Christmas day, we are going to my aunt's house for brunch and opening gifts. Every time the holidays roll around, I feel so grateful that we live close to family. I know that probably won't be the case forever but for now, it's so nice to be nearby!

Y'all--this parka is SO cozy I can't even put it into words. I really hope that more sizes come back in stock because the faux fur lining on this coat is SUCH amazing quality. For those of you in colder climates, this coat will keep you REALLY warm even during the coldest of winter and it's still stylish which I love!

Jumping into this week's link-up! [Also linking up with The Blended Blog and Trend Spin]


12.19.2016

The Perfect Travel Cardigan

Cardigan: Free People, Flares: Paige Denim, Hat: Nordstrom (old, similar here)
Happy Monday loves! Hope you had an awesome weekend. I am still recovering from all the food we ingested during our girl's weekend! Linking up with Biana from B Loved Boston for today's post! This weekend was SO fun and relaxing. Kate came over Friday night and stayed through Sunday. We had such a blast--the weekend mostly consisted of Netflix, drinking wine and loading up on carbs haha! We also got some Christmas shopping done and worked on coordinating some of the upcoming wedding festivities since as my MOH, she is planning one of my bridal showers + Bachelorette party. Just makes me even more excited! Steven got home yesterday afternoon so I'm happy to have him back. We can't wait to celebrate Christmas in the new house. Can you believe it's almost here?!

This sweater was at Nordstrom Rack and really grabbed my attention! I love the colors and the really boho aztec print. If you are looking for the PERFECT travel cardigan, this is it. It's pretty much like wearing a blanket so perfect for a long flight. I would classify it more as a "sweater coat" because it's definitely the heaviest cardigan I own. I could wear it as a coat and be super warm in this winter weather for sure!

PS--sorry for missing my post on Friday. I mentioned before how busy it is at work and Friday was just another 12 hour day!!
12.14.2016

Winter Floral + Fashion Frenzy Link-Up

Tee: J. Crew, Skirt: Asos, Hat: J. Crew, Booties: Aldo
Happy Wednesday loves! Hope you're having an awesome week so far. Steven leaves tomorrow for a wedding in South Carolina which I unfortunately can't attend because I'm saving up vacation time for all of our wedding festivities over the next few months. I'm going to miss him a bunch BUT my MOH/bestie Kate is coming to stay at our house with me this weekend so that will be a blast! Can the weekend get here already?!

I have been SUPER into midi-length skirts and dresses lately! I love them for this time of year because they cover enough that you can wear them on their own OR they look adorable with tights underneath. I'm actually on the hunt for a gold or silver one for Christmas eve. Or maybe even velvet?! Also, can we talk about how pale I am? I would love to hear your suggestions for your favorite self-tanners below. I have been using the Million Dollar Tan for a while but I want to try another one!

Jumping into this week's link-up! [Also linking up with The Blended Blog, Layers & Lipstick, & Trend Spin]


12.12.2016

Styling Combat Boots

Moto Jacket: Express, Jeans: Topshop, Boots: Topshop, Scarf: H&M, Sunglasses: Ray-Ban
Happy Monday loves! Hope you had an awesome weekend. Linking up with Biana from B Loved Boston and Lauren M for today's post! This weekend was a blast. Like I mentioned on Friday, we had our menu tasting at our venue on Sunday and it was SO much fun. I feel like now, more than ever, the wedding feels so close and so real. They sort of simulated a typical wedding by starting off with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. Can we talk about the fact that they had bacon wrapped shrimp and tator tots with lobster as options?! After that sampling, we moved to one of the ballrooms for the plated dinners then following that we had the desserts which were out of this world. Overall, we were really happy with the food. There were some items that were sort of meh but that's why I'm glad we got to try most things out before choosing! I also met with my wedding coordinator and we're scheduling our "planning session" in January. So exciting!

If y'all have been wanting to try out the combat boot trend or have been intrigued by Doc Martens (but not quite as extreme) these boots are AMAZING. I'm not normally super into that style but these are so comfortable and edgy but they still feel a little bit feminine. I definitely think I'm going to wear these a lot through winter and also for travel! Side note--it was about 30 degrees when we were taking these pictures #miserable.
12.09.2016

Gift Guide: Home Goodies

Candle, Pitcher, Blanket, Stapler, Hot Cocoa, Pineapple Decor, Brew Book, Mug/Sock Set

Happy Friday loves! Hope y'all had a great week and have some fun weekend plans ahead. This week felt SO incredibly long so I am feeling so grateful the weekend is almost here. We actually are going to have another busy weekend ahead with wedding planning. We're going to meet with our officiant and then Sunday is our big menu tasting event at our venue. I'm so excited to try all the yummy menu items and especially the cocktails! My parents are tagging along with Steven and I so it'll be nice to get their input. 

The more gift guides I put together, the bigger my wish list gets! I seriously want EVERYTHING from this guide. We actually registered for the Pottery Barn pitcher and matching mugs so I'm hoping that we will receive that as a gift for the wedding. Also, how adorable is the "Cozy Socks & Mug Set?" I feel like this is SUCH a perfect gift for anyone. It's just the epitome of coziness in a box. I also think this Brew book looks really cool and would be a great coffee table addition for anyone!

Have a wonderful weekend!!
12.07.2016

My Favorite Coat + Fashion Frenzy Link-Up!

Coat: J. Crew Factory, Dress: BP (less than $35!!), Booties: Vince Camuto, Tote: Tory Burch, Sunnies: Ray-Ban
Happy Wednesday darlings! These pictures are so special because they were taken at the marina our wedding venue sits on! One thing I love so much about our venue is that on one side is this GORGEOUS marina and on the other side it overlooks the beautiful bay and the Bay Bridge. It's just view goals pretty much!

All the key items I'm wearing (coat, dress and booties) are currently marked down for a GREAT price! I think y'all need this coat AND this dress in your life. If you're looking for the perfect neutral coat for winter, this is my favorite that I've ever owned! It fits SO well, it has a GORGEOUS light blue pinstripe lining on the inside and it's such a classic silhouette. I love all J. Crew coats but I think this one is the most timeless. Also, if you're like me and you love wearing dresses into fall and winter, this black midi dress is a closet staple. It's an awesome length and it actually has a gorgeous criss-cross detail on the back that just adds a little something! It's also a great price-point.

Jumping into the link-up! I wanted to mention that at the start of the new year, we are looking for co-hosts for the link-up so if y'all are interesting in co-hosting you can shoot me an email at rosyoutlookblog@gmail.com. [Also linking up with The Blended Blog and Trend Spin]


12.05.2016

The Coziest Cardi EVER

Sweater: Anthropologie, Tee: J. Crew, Jeans: Paige Denim, Booties: Vince Camuto
Happy Monday loves! Hope you had an awesome weekend. Mine was the busiest I've had in a while!  I don't think we got more than 2 hours to just sit around and relax! Linking up with Biana from B Loved Boston, Layers & Lipstick, Style Elixir, and Trend Spin for today's post .Saturday morning was our cake tasting and it went SO well. We are going to be doing a cake and tiers of cupcakes! Because we loved so many of the flavors we ended up with 3--for the cake we're doing vanilla cake with fresh strawberries at the center and buttercream frosting, for the cupcakes we did half of them red velvet with cream cheese frosting and the other half are spice cake with white chocolate buttercream frosting. Their red velvet/cream cheese frosting was out of this world! Saturday night, we had our neighbors over to watch the Clemson game then Sunday, I met up with my MOH for lunch and shopping! Super fun weekend but I'm so exhausted.

When I saw this cardigan at Anthropologie, I fell in LOVE. I just thought it was such a cool and different piece and I LOVE the faux fur collar. It's so perfect for this time of year where it's a little too warm for a big coat but too cold for a light sweater. This is definitely heavy material and the duster length makes it that much more cozy! Looking at these pictures I already miss the beach so much!
12.02.2016

Gift Guide: For the Fitness Lover (Him & Her)

Patagonia for Her, Patagonia for Him, Nike Sneakers, UA Sneakers, Fitbit, Yeti Bottle, Zella Leggings, Poverty Flats Backpack, Resistance Bands, Bose Headphones
Happy Friday loves! Hope your week was a good one and you have some fun weekend plans ahead. This week was definitely just as busy as the last few have been at work so I'm pretty happy Friday has finally arrived. This month we have a few exciting wedding items lined up! This Saturday, we have our cake tasting which is out on the Eastern Shore near our venue. I think this might be one of the only wedding tasks Steven is really excited about! Next Sunday, they host a huge tasting event at our venue because there are SO many weddings throughout the year. Instead of doing individual tastings, you get tickets for this big event and get to go try out all the new menu items for 2017. Once the meals have been selected, I'm going to be ordering the invites. All exciting things!

As you guys know, I have been way more into fitness especially with the wedding coming up and now that we are less than 5 months away (and only 2 months from my first dress fitting) it is definitely crunch time. I'm hoping to FINALLY start doing more fitness and recipe posts these next few months.

These gift ideas are pretty much ALL things that I have on my wish list. The Patagonia sweater has been on my list for a while and I think it will look so cute over my work-out clothes. Also, I have an awesome gym bag BUT I would love to get a backpack like this one too because it's way easier carrying my gym clothes to work in a backpack! I also shared a pair of women's Nike sneakers that I already have and they are my new FAVORITES. I got them last time I was in NYC and I'm obsessed. One huge reason I like them is because they actually look REALLY cute with jeans too if you just want to wear them to run errands or when you're traveling. Also, Steven prefers Under Armour sneakers so I wanted to share his favorite pair as well for the guy in your life.

Hope this gave you some inspiration for the fitness lovers in your life! Have an awesome weekend!!