Cheers to 5 Years!

It's hard to believe Project Soiree turns 5 today! It seems like just yesterday I was snowed in my first Chicago apartment from the famous 2011 blizzard and decided to start this blog. I never imagined that I would be writing this post 5 years later from my new house in Grand Rapids. 

Inside the Studio of Artist Francine Turk

I'm truly inspired by artist Francine Turk and thrilled to show you a sneak peek of her gorgeous studio. Francine Turk is based in Chicago and her art is influenced by some of my favorite artists including Picasso and Matisse. Her work has been featured in Traditional Home, Rag + Bone and the TV show EMPIRE (so amazing). 

Current Favorites: Perry Clark Home

I'm thrilled to introduce some of my current favorites from the new Perry Clark Home apothecary collection. Perry Clark Home is an e-boutique focused on inspired living made up of local women entrepreneurs (so amazing). I recently tried a few products from the new apothecary collection and spoke with Founder and CEO Christine Clark to get the full scoop on these incredible products. 

Top 4 Chicago Dates With David Yurman

Looking for some fun date night ideas in Chicago? Well you're in luck because today I'm featuring four hot spots in the city with David Yurman in Neiman Marcus and some of my favorite ladies (Nicole, Ashley and Samantha). 

Four Roses Charity Cocktail - Lawrenceburg Citizen Cocktail

Egor Polonskiy from Untitled was recently named the Chicago finalist in the Four Roses Charity Cocktail Challenge, which raised funds for UN86'D. For the competition, Egor showcased Four Roses Single Barrel in his Lawrenceburg Citizen Cocktail. I recreated this cocktail at home and really loved the unique and vibrant flavors. 

Weekly Pick: Winter Whites & City Lights

What I'm Reading Now: Little Black Blog

I'm so excited to feature Katie behind the blog Little Black Blog today. You can find affordable, classic and trendy fashion ideas on LBB as well as helpful style advice. Don't miss out on LBB for some serious style motivation!

Get to know Katie:

1. What are you currently reading? 

With work and constantly try to keep up with blogging, it can be hard to finish a book from cover to cover. But, I am currently reading Ellen DeGeneres' book, "Seriously...I'm Kidding." It's a great book to pick up for daily laughs and a quick read.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I'm a dessert before dinner kind of girl. 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

I love how supportive the blogging world is (at least in Chicago). It's been so fun to meet many amazing bloggers and hear their story. It never makes for a dull moment.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. A new planner and some stationary for 2015: Will definitely be scouring Paper Source for that! 
2. A membership for ClassPass: I did a trial now, I just need to take the plunge!
3. Vacation: One of my best friend who lives in Orange County, California and I would love to plan a trip out there to the beach or San Francisco.
4. To have a happy, healthy and successful 2015. A fresh start couldn't come at a better time!
5. I'm a big Benefit Cosmetics fan and really need to up my beauty game! Looking to make some fun purchases :)

5. Favorite quote? 

I recently heard the wonderful DVF say (if you can't tell, I'm a big reality TV girl), "We all do the same things, but what makes us different is how we do it." It's important to stay true to yourself and do what you love to do. How you achieve your goals will be what sets you apart.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Sassy Moms in the City

I recently met Alison from Sassy Moms in the City at a Chicago event and I've become a loyal reader of her blog. Sassy Moms in the City helps sophisticated women maintain their style AFTER baby, but even though I'm not a mom I love her helpful tips, delicious recipes and beauty tricks. With Alison's experience in event planning and marketing she also launched SoChic Media in 2012 to serve a broader audience. Follow Sassy Moms in the City for sophisticated style, beauty and fashion tips!

Get to know Alison:

1. What are you currently reading? 

Does reading to my kid’s at night count?? Luckily I just received two amazing books I can’t wait to dive into over the holidays – Unselling by Alison Kramer & Scott Stratten and Think Like a SheEO by Vicki Saunders. My reading goal for 2015 is to immerse myself into all things that will take my business to the next level.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I dream about the Brussel Sprout Salad at Sunda and try desperately to recreate at home. It’s all about flash frying the brussel sprouts and that sauce. It’s heavenly! 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

Having a flexible schedule -I work when and where I want. I pick up my daughters from school every day and I wouldn’t change this for anything. The second best thing are the amazing relationships created over the past 5 years. There are so many people I may have never met if it weren’t for blogging. I am truly blessed to have these friends in my life. 

4. Five things on your wish list? 

Oh my – just 5?? 

1. These Sorel booties need to be on my feet before snow hits the ground! 
2. More hours in the day – can someone clone me?
3. More date nights with my husband. 
4. Brussel Sprout Salad from Sunda! I told ya – it's really, really good.
5. A trip to anywhere warm between January and March. Chicago winters are starting to wear me down!! 
6. BONUS: A year’s supply to ClassPass. Have you tried this yet? So addicting! 

5. Favorite quote? 

"When you know better, do better." - Maya Angelou. It sounds a little cliche but it's such a great way to live life. We all make mistakes along the way, it's all about learning and making changes.

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

1. Lovely thoughts on winter 

2. Maple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls from The Kittchen...yes please

3. Helpful tips and apps to stay organized in the new year 

4. DreamDry has arrived in Chicago! Check out the details on Cedar & Rush

5. What men really think about your feminine decor

6. Stay bundled on a budget with these blanket capes under $20

7. This Kate Spade baseball hat is so epic

8. My dream soft and cozy apartment

Around Town:

Meet the Maker at West Elm featuring See Song Designs and The Trendy Sparrow tomorrow from 1-6PM

Get Dosed this weekend at the HoliDose market on December 14 from 10AM-5PM

A few things you may have missed...

Fab 5: Holiday Cards

Weekly Pick: Holiday Wear

Tasty Tuesday: Winter Holiday Sides & Starters

2014 Holiday Gift Guides

What I'm Reading Now: Glitterary

xoxo

PS

Fab 5: Holiday Cards

I'm convinced the best way to spread Christmas cheer is sending a hand written holiday card. It's my tradition to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate (or glass of bubbly) while watching a Christmas movie (my favorite is The Holiday) and writing my Christmas cards to friends and family. I think a little piece of snail mail during the holidays is a great way to connect or re-connect with those you love and spread some joy.

Rifle Paper Co. Be Merry cards at Furbish Studio / Sugar Paper Merry and Bright cards at J.Crew / The Atelier Fabulous New Year cards / Kate Spade Happy New Year cards / Paper Source New Year card

I'm all about shopping local so if you live in Chicago stop by these shops to pick up your holiday cards this year:

1. Greer - Located in Old Town, Greer is a perfect spot to stock up on my favorite Kate Spade stationary.

2. Inkling - Head over to Lakeview East and stop in Inkling for local art and greeting cards.

3. Elizabeth Grace - Beautiful invitations and a wide selection of cards at this Lincoln Park shop.

xoxo

PS

WCBC Holiday Shopping Soiree with Vo Jewelry

Save the date because the Windy City Blogger Collective is having a Holiday Shopping Soiree at Del Frisco's on December 8. This is the perfect excuse to grab your girlfriends for a night on the town, sip some champagne and cross some items off your Christmas list.

The best part about this event is the pop-up shops with a wonderful mix of brands including my favorite Vo Jewelry. Amy Vorel is the Chicago-based designer behind Vo Jewelry and her bulletproof gold-filled designs are her signature line. The pieces in her collection are timeless and versatile enough to wear everyday to take an ordinary outfit to the next level. Over the summer I couldn't leave my apartment without wearing the Halfsies necklace because it was the perfect edgy accessory.

While you're sipping your champagne at Del Frisco's be sure to stop by Vo Jewelry and treat yourself and your loved ones this Christmas with these gorgeous pieces. Here are some of my favorite gift ideas from Vo Jewelry:

1. The Mini Bracelet

Gold-filled bangle with mini bullet - the perfect addition to any arm party

2. The Olivia

Gold-filled chain ring - simplicity at its best

3. The Mini

Gold-base chain (2.5 ft) and crystal - a great layering piece

4. The Bobby

Gold-base chain (2.5 ft) and quartz - a timeless piece 

5. Halfsies

Gold-base chain (2.5 ft) and quartz - my favorite item

This event is free to attend (dressing up is encouraged) just make sure to RSVP to events@zapwater.com

xoxo

PS

Save The Date: Lincoln Park Holiday Shop-Hop

Save the date for the Lincoln Park Shop-Hop on December 4! Spend your Thursday night shopping at the hottest Lincoln Park shops with some of your favorite Chicago bloggers and pick up some Christmas gifts for everyone on your list. Grab your girlfriends for a fun night out and shop till you drop! 

From 5:30-8pm you can find me at Londo Mondo with Nicole from Cedar and Rush where we'll have a selection of our favorite items for the holiday season. Come and say hi because we would love to see you!

Here's a full list of of participating stores and bloggers:

Halsted Between Webster and Armitage: (North to South) 

Fox's Designer off-Price: Lauren of Lakeshore Lady and Erin of Color Me Styled

Londo Mondo: Nicole of Cedar and Rush and Sara of Project Soiree 

Pilates Pro Works: Jeana of A Sweat Life 

Essentia: Ashlee of The Little Foxes 

Lululemon: Liz of Adrian-James 

Pure Barre: Sara of Lakeshore Runner 

Barbour: Ashlee of Kinks are the New Pink and Jess of The Golden Girl 

Francesca's Collection: Peggy of Hallways are my Runways and Jill of Hot Pink Style 

 Northside of Armitage: (East to West):

Ten Thousand Villages: Sarah of The Kissing Booth Blog 

Oh, Olive: Kit of The Kittchen 

Art Effect: Emily of Isn't that Charming and Maya of Charmingly Styled 

 Southside of Armitage: (East to West):

Comfort Me Boutique: Laurie of 312 Beauty and Monica of Caravan of Style 

Rara Avis: Jamie of House and Hanger 

All She Wrote: Tomissa of She Loved Life 

Shop857: Jennie of Actually, just Jennie and Shaheen of Lows to Luxe 

Kiehl's: Caitlin of A Cheeky Fox 

Green Goddess Boutique: Rachel of An Eventful Life and Samantha of Gold Coast Girl 

Studio Fit: Sarah of The Balanced Babe 

Halsted South of Armitage: 

Stella Barra: Christina of Chritiques 

Halsted North of Webster:

Little Black Dress: Maria of The Style Letters and Jennie of 2 girls 2 cities

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Sparkles & Sprinkles

You can't go wrong with sparkles or sprinkles so you're going to love the blog Sparkles & Sprinkles. Megan started Sparkles & Sprinkles as a creative outlet to inspire young women to share their own personal sparkle in today's world (I love this). If you're looking for some fun events in Chicago, delicious recipes or everyday advice about growing up, start following Sparkles & Sprinkles.

Get to know Megan:

1. What are you currently reading?

I recently finished "#GIRLBOSS", one of the best books I’ve ever read, and started “The Best Advice I Ever Got” by Katie Couric. I love reading books about women empowerment and success stories. I find it fascinating hearing where people started and how they got to where they are today.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

This is a tough one, because I’m not a picky eater and I don’t usually go to the same restaurant twice since there are so many great ones here in Chicago. However, if I had to pick one I would have to say brunch at The BongoRoom. It has everything you could ever dream of for brunch and no matter what your order, you can’t go wrong.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

It’s a great way to meet people with similar interests and support each other. The blogging community is such a fun and creative one to be a part of, where everyone encourages each other to succeed.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. I'm a big planner person and love this Emily Ley Planner
2. Thanks to you, I learned I need blogger business cards so this Kate Spade business card holder has been on my "to buy" list
3. I wear a watch almost every day and I love this Michael Kors Parker watch
4. Scary to say it's almost winter so I've been eyeing these bright coral Hunter Boots
5. I've become a bag lady on the train going from the gym to work to events so I found this perfect Lululemon bag to get me through the whole day/night

5. Favorite quote?

“Throw kindness around like confetti.” In the blogging community and in everyday life, it’s so important to be kind to everyone you meet. You never know how someone can play an important role in a future opportunity for you. Kindness can go a long way, just a smile can mean the world to someone else.

Thank you to everyone who entered the PrettyQuick giveaway last week! The winner of the $50 beauty credit is Hollie from Fancykins. Congrats!

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Acanto

Acanto is one of the newer additions to the Magnificent Mile and a dining destination you should add to your list. Located just steps from Millennium Park, Acanto (the Italian translation of Acanthus - the flowery leaf used in Roman architecture) is a perfect spot for those who love Italian food in a cozy atmosphere.

We started our night with a glass of Prosecco (cheers) and the marinated olives with pecorino cheese. The selection of olives and the pairing of pecorino cheese was the perfect light bite before our meals.

I enjoyed a light meal with the beet salad that included pickled apples, candied hazelnuts and orange goat cheese. This salad was on point for Fall with the crisp apples and delicious hazelnuts. Acanto was the perfect spot to enjoy dinner before a show at the Bank of America Theatre.

Acanto

18 S. Michigan Ave.

Chicago, IL 60603

xoxo

PS

GIVEAWAY: PrettyQuick $50 Beauty Credit

As if PrettyQuick couldn't be more amazing they are launching a mobile app (available soon) and a rewards program! You might remember my fabulous PrettyQuick experience last month, but let me fill you in if this is your first introduction. PrettyQuick is truly the easiest and most rewarding way to book beauty services in Chicago without having to pick up the phone. Select your preferred service, location and salon and PrettyQuick does all the work to book your appointment.

With the new iOS PrettyQuick app launching any day, editor-vetted salon openings are literally a click away. As a member you'll benefit from instant appointment confirmations, cashless payment including tip, and easily re-book a service at your favorite salon. 

I'm also extremely excited for the PrettyQuick rewards program that offers a free manicure after 8 bookings. How amazing is that?!

To celebrate the launch of the PrettyQuick app I'm hosting a giveaway for one (1) lucky reader to receive a $50 beauty credit to use on any PrettyQuick services! You can enter below via the Rafflecopter widget.

The giveaway will close Friday, November 7, 2014 at 11:59pm EST and I'll choose a winner via Rafflecopter on Monday, November 10, 2014. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
xoxo

PS

This post was sponsored by PrettyQuick. I do my best to only work with brands that I love and fit well with Project Soiree, and all opinions are always 100% honest and my own.

What I'm Reading Now: 2 Girls In 2 Cities

I'm excited to feature Amanda and Jennie from 2 Girls in 2 Cities today! Amanda and Jennie lived together at the University of Dayton, and after graduation started their blog 2 Girls in 2 Cities as a way to keep in touch (such a great idea). With a shared interest in clothes, cooking, DIY projects and more you'll love keeping up with these girls.

Get to know Amanda and Jennie:

1. What are you currently reading?

A: "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life andBusiness." I'm not very far yet, but so far it's a really interesting look at habits - how they are formed, changed, and examples of how using knowledge of habits has influenced things like marketing campaigns and SuperBowl wins. 

J: "The Fault In Our Stars." Sarah let me borrow this book. I'm about halfway through the story and am still on the fence if I like it or not, but definitely want to finish the book to then see the movie. 

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

A: My mom's Chex Mix! I had to beg to get her secret recipe once I became an "adult," and I look forward to making it as soon as the weather turns cool each year. 

J: I love all things Crock-Pot, and am guessing I'll be doing a lot of cooking in mine this winter. I love it for unexpected recipes too, such as this slow cooker apple crisp I tried first last year. 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

A: Getting to do it with Jennie! It's been a fun way to keep in touch, and it's been really great having someone to toss ideas around with - both blog and purchase related- and seeing how both of our styles have grown over the past 2.5 years. 

J: Definitely keeping my friendship going with Amanda, and as well as creating more friendships! Thanks to Amanda and other women I met in the blogger community, I always feel like I have someone to ask about as simple as "Should I buy this dress?" or for advice on bigger things. 

4. Five things on your wish list?

A:

1. Those fancy gripper toe socks everyone has in barre classes
2. A little black bag perfect for weekends (the Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Affair bag?)
3. L.L. Bean boots for the winter
4. The Kate Spade Taurus charm bracelet
5. A nice, leather duffel bag that meets airline carry-on measurements

J:

1. A black side sling purse for jaunts around the city
2. An ear cuff
3. A pair of "shorties" 
4. A fedora that Amanda always makes look so good
5. A trip to see my parents' new house in Florida

5. Favorite quote?

A: "I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls." (Audrey Hepburn). It's always a great reminder for me to do something that makes me happy every day - especially on the bad days. 

J: "Things happen that you never expect." My mom said this to me when I was exiting the car in a bad mood one day in high school, and I try to keep it in mind whenever it feels like things aren't going my way. Because maybe it's just the way it's supposed to go. 

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Hallways Are My Runways

Today I'm excited to introduce Peggy from Hallways Are My Runways! Peggy is a middle school Reading Specialist who launched Hallways Are My Runways in 2012 to showcase her unique style and eclectic style, fashion and photography. I love how she mixes high and low brands into her outfits and stellar fashion tips. Check out Hallways Are My Runways for some fun style inspiration!

Get to know Peggy:

1. What are you currently reading?
I'm constantly reading at least three to five books between teaching (6-8 Reading) and for myself. I'm currently reading Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling. She's one of my favorite comedians and she is hilarious. And for school I read Stargirl - such a great message of individuality and reread The Giver which coincides with the seventh grade curriculum and one of my favorite books as well. 

2. Favorit recipe or restaurant?

One of my favorite restaurants is Big Star. It's close to my place and I could basically eat tacos everyday.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

My favorite thing about blogging is having a space where I can express myself and share a bit of myself with others. I have also met a lot of other bloggers and have build great friendships.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. My family and friends to be happy and healthy.
2. A trip to Melbourne to visit my younger sister and to meet my niece (debuting in November).
3. Artwork for my gallery wall - I'm still decorating my apartment.
4. A long and warm winter coat - I can't handle cold weather.
5. A structued handbag for all my schoolwork. 

5. Favorite quote?

I've always said this quote ever since I was little, "You have to look good, to feel good, to do good." Being the best person you can be and doing good things for others is what's it's all about.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: The F Bombs

For everything fabulous, foxy and fun you need to read Brittany's blog The F Bombs.  The F Bombs is named after some of Brittany's favorite things including fashion, food and football (she's a huge Green Bay Packers fan). I love Brittany's sense of style, makeup tips and fun recommendations around Chicago!

Get to know Brittany:

1. What are you currently reading?

I know I'm late to the party, but I'm currently reading "#GIRLBOSS."  I am absolutely inspired by this book. 

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I'm not the best chef in the world (Just ask my fiance!) so my favorite recipe is a super simple Grasshopper (this post I did WAY in the begginging of blogging and it's not really great but the recipe is still amazing!!). My favorite restaurant is a place my fiance and I just went for the first time last night and I haven't been able to write a post about it yet but it's called Coalfire and the pizza is INCREDIBLE!!  I highly recommend it if you are in the West Loop/Fulton Market area! 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

Oh goodness! There are so many things but I think my FAVORITE thing is the people you meet.  The blogger community in Chicago is so welcoming and wonderful and I really value the relationships I have made while blogging.  Chicago is the perfect city to blog in, if you ask me. :) 

4. Five things on your wish list? 

Five things?! Only five?! Haha! OK here we go: 

1. Any blanket scarf out there
2. Leather leggings (I have leather pants but I reallllly would love leggings as well) 
3. GiGi New York Uber Clutch in Orange Pebble Grain
4. Clare V Foldover Clutch in Leopard
5. THE studded Valentino pumps (I mean, what girls doesn't want those, right?!

5. Favorite quote? 

"Eventually all the pieces fall into place. Until then, laugh at the confusion, live for the moment, and know that everything happens for a reason." Because even though it sounds so cheesy, everything does happen for a reason and your life works out exactly how it's supposed to be. :) 

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: LYFE Kitchen

A quick, healthy and satisfying meal all under 600 calories? Meet LYFE Kitchen where the food not only tastes amazing but its good for you. Executive chefs Art Smith and Tal Ronnen created an amazing menu (actually you'll find three menu's - everything, gluten free and vegan & vegetarian) with local fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs and responsibly raised meats. As someone who's a pescatarian I really appreciated a separate vegetarian menu that made it easy to order.

LYFE Kitchen is a warm and inviting space to enjoy lunch with your co-workers or grab dinner with your family. With an easy to read menu that displays a full ingredient list, calorie count, sodium, and nut allergy information you can find a little something for everyone. I started with the roasted salmon (sustainably raised) with pan-steamed fennel, red onion, broccoli and a zesty tomato sauce. The salmon was extremely fresh and the zesty tomato sauce was the perfect addition to the steamed vegetables. 

I also had to order the baked sweet potato fries with agave ketchup because I'm slightly obsessed with sweet potatoes right now. The agave ketchup was slightly sweet and a little spicy which paired really well with the sweet potato fries.

I ended my night with a vegan chocolate chip cookie made with dark chocolate (my favorite). The cookie was warm and gooey and the perfect way to end my meal. 

LYFE Kitchen

413 N Clark St.

Chicago, IL 60654

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Red Soles & Red Wine

I'm thrilled to feature Jen from Red Soles & Red Wine and t+j Designs today! Jen has a great sense of style, and I love reading her styling tips and browsing her fabulous outfits on Red Soles & Red Wine. Jen is also a jewelry designer for t+j Designs (I'm loving their new tops and skirts) with her sister Tiffany and bloggers behind Tiff + Jen where they cover tidbits about the business as well as their lives as entrepreneurs.

Get to know Jen:

1. What are you currently reading?  

I just finished #GirlBoss by Sophia Amoruso, lately my time to sit down and read has been limited but I loved reading about her passion and thought process behind Nasty Gal.  

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?  

In Chicago, my two favorites are GT Fish and Oyster and Nico Osteria. 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?  

My favorite thing about blogging are the friendships and people I've met.  I moved here three years ago only knowing a handful of people and now I feel like a have a wonderful group of girlfriends that love fashion, blogging and going out as much as I do!  Blogging has allowed me to meet so many interesting and fabulous people and I've also had so much fun doing so.

4. Five things on your wish list?  

1. For my family to be healthy and happy always
2. To travel more
3. To have another successful holiday season for my company t+j Designs
4. For my shopping wish list - the perfect tall flat boot (as I typically wear heels and realized I need some walking shoes for the winter)
5. A wool cape for the winter

5. Favorite quote?  

"Your Dream Job Does Not Exist, You Must Create It" I don't remember where I saw this quote but I love it and gave my perspective on it in a blog post here. 

xoxo

PS