BOWW LOVES ROMPERS

 Romper // Necklace // Purse-Coach // Shoes // Sunglasses 

 Ahh...rompers the lazy fashionista's go to. 

Don't know what to wear? Romper. 

Not feeling so skinny? Romper. 

Have your lazy bones on? Romper. 

Too much champs last night? Romper. 

Okay okay, I think you get it. Honestly I love rompers because you look put together even if you're not feeling put together. With all the festivities happening this week, a romper is a perfect go-to to have in your closet. I actually have a couple of outfits laid out for this weekends festivities. With so much going on with work and play, it is easy to get frustrated with your wardrobe while trying to rush out the door. I decided to "pack" for the weekend so I can be prepared in a flash. Okay maybe not a "flash" but quicker than normal. And guess what I decided to pack? Yah...a romper & now rainboots! (grr...silly rain!)

Photos by Meredith Amadee :) 

FRIDAY FINDS: WM PHOENIX OPEN & SUPERBOWL

This post is a bit early due to the upcoming events...or late..however you want to look at it?! 

The weather has cooled down, the champagne is iced, and our outfits are picked out. Yup, the WM Phoenix Open is upon us and us Arizonan's are ready to embrace it with a big fat hug. However, not only will Tiger Woods make an appearance this Phoenix Open we also have the Superbowl in our fine ass state. This weekend has been one that many of us have been preparing for. I barley ate Christmas cookies because we all knew that those extra pounds wouldn't look good in my WM Phoenix Open outfit, like duh. So hold onto your chonies this weekend because the festivities are endless and it could get a little cray.

Tiger makes a come back, Drake will be performing at the W, and PUPPIES. Yes you heard me. PUPPIES. Freaking puppies will be taking over downtown Phoenix and I couldn't help but pee a little bit in excitement.  I put together a quick little list of some events that are worth your time and $$.

Verizon Super Bowl Central // Free and family friendly for those with little babes. Located in Downtown Phoenix, there will be many activities such as live music and a rock wall. The NFL Experience is also located Downtown and Bud Light's House of Whatever. 

Maya // Big Sean, Tiesto, & Kaskade - Oh My-A! Maya Nightclub in Old Town Scottsdale has a jammed packed schedule this weekend and each headliner will not disappoint.

WM Phoenix Open // This annual event held at the TPC Scottsdale is the only golf event that you will ever catch me at. Tiger is making an appearance this year so just another reason to day drink while pretending to be interested in golf. The Birds Nest is the Phoenix Open's concert throughout the weekend and I've heard it's always a good time. 

DirectTV Super Fan Fest // Imagine Dragons, Calvin Harris, & Snoop Dogg are just a few of the performers who will be playing in Glendale, AZ. Tickets are available here. 

So, start saving those pennies for Uber rides, you're gonna need it.

BOWW LOVES PORTLAND

Nikes // Leggings // Sweater // Purse

Brace yourself, this is long...

I'm pretty sure the earth started to shake when I was running at the gym today. Yup, you can tell that I had a good time in Portland last weekend.  Portland surprised me because it wasn't what I was expecting. But really, I didn't know what to expect. A bunch of hipsters walking around drinking coffee? ...Okay, ya I saw that. I even saw a whole store just for men's underwear. A WHOLE store?! 

I did a bit of research before we arrived in Portland from friends and other bloggers so I had an idea where we wanted to go. We stayed at the Hotel Monaco which was awesome. The decor is unique, they are pet friendly, and even have a free wine hour (come to mamma). Our hotel also had a free rental bike program which helped us bop around the city. 

If you're in Portland, check these out: 

Vooodoo Doughnuts // This is a must in Portland but be ready to wait in line. Also, there is a homeless shelter near by so there are a lot of homeless people around the shop.

Bijou Cafe // This is located near Voodoo Doughnuts and it is amazing. There will be a wait on the weekends, but its worth it. Fresh ingredients & the best biscuits & gravy I've ever had.... (queue the drool from my mouth)

Imperial // Located in downtown, we stumbled in here for breakfast one day. The corn cakes were so yummy it's silly.

Salt & Straw // All I have to say is that I am very upset that there isn't a location in Arizona. --You need to try this, enough said.

Ace Hotel // Shown in the photos above. A funky boutique hotel that is a must to see. People are lounging drinking their coffee and reading the paper. Also, there is a photobooth located in the lobby of the hotel that is a perfect excuse to take funny photos.

Stumptown Coffee // Portland has great coffee but this is the signature brew that you shouldn't miss. They have locations throughout the city but we stopped by the one right next to the Ace Hotel. 

Zenny & Zuke's // This is located right down the block from the Ace Hotel. We were hangry the morning we stopped by the Ace Hotel and we picked this place on a whim. The fresh ingredients didn't disappoint and I would love to come here again. 

Portland City Grill // This has a great view of the city! We stopped in here Friday afternoon for drinks and appz.

Deschutes Brewery // My dad loves their beer so we were happy to find out that they are located in Portland. Also, their food is pretty tasty and pairs perfectly with their brews.

Yo Vintage // Just one of the cute vintage shops we stumbled upon on Burnside St.

Henry's Tavern // A perfect spot to grab great lunch and watch Sunday football.

Imogene + Willie // Denim lovers haven.

Tanner Goods // Not quite like Jimmy Fallon's leeeattthherman but it's pretty good. ;)

Also, every where we had breakfast was amazzing. I couldn't get over the food...hence the earth shaking when I got back home. I would recommend anyone to head to Portland for a weekend getaway. It's a perfect excuse to eat, drink, and create memories. 

TELLURIDE

 

Coat // Purse - similar  // Leggings // Top // Beanie

Throwing it back to this weekend in Telluride. We were there looking at wedding venues and it started snowing on us! Yup, that's snow in the air. It was so windy and cold when we were taking these photos but I knew they would be a complete change from my previous style post. If you can't tell from my face in these photos I was freezing my booty off. 

Brandon and I are really excited because we decided to have a small destination wedding in Telluride then have a big reception in Phoenix. It was a happy medium because Brandon preferred a smaller wedding and of course I wanted a big one. Although we picked our Telluride date we still have a lot to do! 

Also, what is everyone doing this weekend? I have a couple of fun events going on this weekend that I'm excited to share with you on my Friday Finds! Stay tuned. 

xoxo 

FRIDAY FINDS: THE STAND

Burgers & Tacos??! Two of my favorite food groups collide in this weeks Friday Find. My brother John lives just across the street from The Stand and has been raving about it ever since he moved in. The Stand Burgers & Tacos is located near 36th St & Indian School Rd in Acardia. Don't be fooled by the Drive Thru because this isn't your ordinary take out restaurant, they don't skimp on fresh real ingredients. Eva, the owner and founder, strives to serve high quality food at a quick rate. The idea behind The Stand was Eva's heritage because she wanted to blend her Mexican and Russian Jewish backgrounds together. She created a simple and affordable menu to appeal to just about anybody. When my family and I got the chance to finally try The Stand, I must say my brother was right, the food was delicious. We ordered a burger, fries, fresh lemonade, chips & salsa, and tacos! The only items we missed were the guacamole and milkshake, but there is always next time. :)

I was lucky enough to get in contact with the owner Eva and ask her a few questions regarding The Stand. Take note, because she is right about the pickles! We didn't order extra and left with a little regret that we didn't seize the opportunity. 

Boww: What has been the biggest struggle starting your own business? What has been the biggest reward? 

Eva: It's not really a struggle if you love what you do. It's challenging but if your an entrepreneur your also an expert creative problem solver. You have no choice. The quote at the bottom by Danny Meyer really sums it up for me. I live by it and am tested to live up to it everyday I own my own business. 

"Success lies not in the elimination of problems but in the art of creative, profitable problem solving." - Danny Meyer 

The biggest reward is providing something positive to this community and the response that my little place has gotten. It's astounding to me. Everyday I'm surprised and humbled that people grace me with their patronage. I feel so lucky that this community had embraced what I have to offer. I work so hard at what I do and I hope that everyday in some way my business is a reflection of that.  

Boww: If you were to order one thing on The Stand's menu, what would it be?

Eva: If I were to order one thing it would be a Burger with extra cheese, extra pickles(because it took me forever to find the right pickles and my pickles ROCK!) thick cut bacon, caramelized onion, tomato, lettuce and Stand sauce on a gluten-free bun because I have Celiac's disease. By the way, if desired, my entire menu is available as a gluten free option. Top to bottom! 

Soo....What will you be doing this holiday weekend? They are closed on Monday in observance of Labor Day so make sure you catch them before then! Enjoy :) 

FRIDAY FINDS: THE SAGUARO

^^ Our boy Frank came to play with us ^^

A couple of weeks ago we had a staycation at The Saguaro Hotel in Old Town Scottsdale.  I have driven past this hotel multiple times and I have always wanted to step inside. The colors of the hotel are vibrant and would help put a smile on anyones face. We checked in on Saturday and hung by the pool the rest of the afternoon. 
They have a full service bar at the pool where you can order lunch and drinks. This isn't your fist pumpin', body rockin', bass jumpin' pool but there was a decent size crowd to make for a pleasant afternoon. This was a perfect balance to transition right into happy hour at the hotel's restaurant, Distrito. Distrito is a modern Mexican restaurant that serves classic Mexican but also has a full range of flavorful cuisine dishes that will surprise you. 

After happy hour we headed back to our room to get ready for a night on the town.  The location of the hotel is in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale next to the bars, clubs and fun nightlife.

I've never lived in Scottsdale but I have lived in downtown Tempe which is a short drive. I have friends who live close by and have spent many nights down in Old Town. Although I've spent time in the area, nothing beats spending the evening at The Saguaro. We didn't get a chance to enjoy the spa so I'm going to stop by to get a facial one of these days. Even if you are from the area or are from out of town, head over to The Saguaro for great amenities, a good time, and a fantastic location. 

Hope you have a wonderful weekend! Thanks for stopping by.
xoxo  

ENJOY THE MOMENT

Dress (Topshop)- Similar & love this  // Birks // Sunnies // Lip // Necklace-Similar  // Bracelet // Purse

Ahhh, I love Denver. The people, the breweries, and the crazy weather are specatcular. Wanna know something funny? I started this blog to become more connected on the internet world however, I find myself pulling back more and more. When we saw Dierks Bentley on Wednesday, I really wanted to enjoy the moment. Therefore, I kept my phone camera away for most of the night and really paid attention to the details. The weather was cloudy and sprinkled on and off, which was a pleasant change from the Arizona heat. We spent the weekend with good friends and I didn't want to take that for granted. Every time we come back from a vacation, I wonder if I really took in the culture and adventure the city had to offer. This trip, I did just that! Brandon and I had so much fun running around the city even though the only cloud in the sky that day seemed to keep following us around. We kept laughing because we couldn't get away from the cloud and in the distance the sky was clear. Whether you have a 'cloud' following you around and you're going through a rough time, enjoy the moment. The sky is always clear in the distance. 

P.S. I'm really excited that I finally packed well this trip. Even though I travel often, I am the worst packer. Normally, I find myself only wearing 1 third of the items in my suitcase. Yet, this trip I stuck with 3 pairs of shoes: workout shoes for the gym or a hike, booties for the concert or going out, and my birks for walking around the city. I worked my clothes around those three pairs of shoes and called it a day! What are your packing tips? Spill! :) 

xoxo

FRIDAY FINDS: HOME

Image source

Todays Friday Finds is a wee bit different than my others. 

Throughout all of our travels to Austin, Denver, California and beyond I always look forward to come home. One year ago, Brandon and I moved into our home and we haven't done much decorating. It took us a couple of months to realize that all of our extra money was going to traveling. We have been gone almost every month to different cities.

Home is a where memories happen: Good, bad, ugly, and happy. For example, as I'm trying to write this Alayna, Brandon's daughter, is dancing around with excitement just because we are about to munch on some cherries. The girl is running around like her pants are on fire because of these cherries! It is these simple things that make this house our home. I CHERRish (get it?!) these moments as I get to watch her grow up, learn, and do a dance or two.

Last week we threw a party for a couple of friends. They are moving to Virginia to start a new chapter in their lives. It was a bittersweet evening celebrating an end and a new beginning. However, this is what my home means to me, the end and the beginning of our lives. Through all the ups and downs of life, home should be steady.  A place for you to wind down, relax, grow, laugh, cry, and create those memories.

Have a great weekend! xoxo

INSTAGRAM ROUND UP

Howdy! Giddy up & welcome to the Instagram Round Up! 

I wanted to share some of my favorite snaps I've posted on Instagram. My favorite social media platform besides my blog is Instagram. It is a lot of fun to update my friends and followers with photos and clever captions. Also, I like to see what friends and other bloggers have been posting. If I don't have time to scan through some of my favorite bloggers, I scroll through my insta to get a feel for what is going on. 

Let me tell ya a little secret. I've been stressed out this week and last. I could go on and on about the little things but the thing that really has been bothering me are my blog posts. I've had some techincal difficulty with image quality and then in the middle of all that my camera battery charger broke.  

However, I am moving forward. It never helps to get too down on mistakes you've made. 

Thanks for reading & sticking with me! :) 
xoxo

BLUES

Pants // Top-Zara -Old // Heels // Necklace - old

Did you miss me? because I missed you. This past week was rough and it seemed like everything was going wrong. I was feeling just a wee bit stressed so it was no surprise that I was drawn to the color blue in my wardrobe. I remixed my blue H&M wide legged trousers and paired them with my boxy Zara top. This outfit works because the bottoms are loose fitted and the top is structured. I could have gone with a blouse again, like I did in this post however I decided to mix things up. 

If you can't tell, Brandon and I like to travel and we are already counting down till our next trip. Next we are headed to Colorado to visit friends and family and to see the Dierks Bentley concert at the Red Rocks Amphitheater. I heard the venue is amazing so we are pretty excited about it. I also heard there is a beer festival going that weekend and all of sudden I'm not feeling that blue anymore? 

Hope you all have a great week & I'm glad to be back.

xxoo

VACATION BLUES

Top // Shorts // Sandals // Purse 

I hope everyone had a wonderful long weekend for the holiday. I over ate, over drank, and over indulged so I will be detoxing for the rest of the week. It is never easy getting back into your weekly routine once you get back from vacation. I've gathered a few tricks to get over those vacation blues. 

Beat those vacation blues
1 // Plan a happy hour with a friend you haven't seen in awhile
2 // Get your meals organized for the week 
3 // Try a new dinner recipe 
4 // Download new beats to get motivated to get back into the gym
5 // Plan another trip to look forward to :) 

What are your tips/tricks to beat that after vacation feeling?

xoxo

FRIDAY FINDS: ARIZONA 4TH OF JULY

All week I have been gearing you up for one of my favorite holidays (could you tell?) So of course, this Friday Finds I wanted to share with you some events around the Phoenix area. There are fireworks shows all around town & pool parties in Scottsdale & downtown to fit any of your needs. Whether you're going to be out celebrating with family or friends--remember to drink plenty of water & be safe! 

Fireworks: 

Fabulous Phoenix Fourth // Steel Indian School Park 

Tempe Fireworks Spectacular // Tempe Town Lake

Peoria All-American Festival //  Peoria Sports Complex

Cave Creek Independence Day Celebration // Harold's Cave Creek Corral 

 & it wouldn't be a BOWW-Utiful holiday without a pool party! Here are some of the hottest pool parties this holiday weekend. 

Pool Parties: 

// W Hotel Scottsdale //  <--feeling swanky?

// Lustre Rooftop Garden //  <--I've been wanting to try this pool/bar!

// Maya Day & Nightclub //  <--went last year & had a blast!! 

// Saguaro Hotel // 

// Hotel Valley Ho // 

// Talking Stick Resort //  <--DJ Pauly D! 

If I was in Phoenix this holiday weekend it would be a tough decision where to spend the day. 

Where will you be this holiday weekend?

xoxo

RED, WHITE, & BLUE

Shades- Prada // Lips // Romper-Vince Camuto // Sandals 

As you can see in these photos, I'm fully active in the spirit of 4th of July. We went to happy hour last night so I knew that this was a perfect outfit to kick off the holiday weekend. We are on our way to Newport Beach to spend time with family and friends. 

Don't worry guys, I ran out this morning and got a spray tan before we left--no ghost legs for this weekend. :) 

Also! I am excited to announce that I'm battling it out in the Battle of the Blogs for Arizona Foothills Magazine. It is nice to be a part of the Arizona Blogger community. Take a look at the other great bloggers I'm up against & remember to vote for me!  Voting is unlimited-- so don't be shy, she won't bite (hard). 

Hope everyone has a safe & fun weekend!

xoxo.

NEUTRALS

 Top // Shorts // Heels

I wore this for Father's Day Brunch in Newport Beach over the weekend. Stock up on neutral colors such as black, white, and navy to make choosing outfits easy. I guarantee that your morning routine will be easier if your closet is packed with some basics. Also, just like yesterdays post it is easy to mix up neutral prints. If you are intimidated to mix prints, I would start with choosing two black and white prints to work with. 

For awhile I was a person who was afraid to mix silver with gold or black with navy but now I mix basics all the time. Such as these neutral Halogen heels with this Zara top. It reminds me of a L.A.M.B purse my mom had years back. It was black, cream, and brown and at the time I would have never wore black and brown together-yet now I can't get enough. 

xxoo.

BEACH VACA MANDATORIES

Bag // Lips // Blanket // Shorts // Sandals // Pretzel // Spray // Suit 

Hello from Cali! Unfortunately, we are headed back to the Arizona heat today. We had a lot of fun eating, drinking, swimming, & spending time with friends and family. I think it is always nice to get some time to relax from the hectic work week.

When we were planning our trip to Palm Springs over Memorial Day Weekend a couple weeks ago, I was on the hunt for some beach/pool vaca mandatories. So, when we were headed to the beach this weekend, I was on the hunt again. Above is some of my favorite things you need when hitting the beach and/or pool this summer.

1 // A cute and colorful toiletry bag to keep your sunscreen, capstick, water proof mascara, & some BB cream. 

2 // A sassy purple lip to make your swimsuit pop. When you are wearing swim attire your outfit tends to be minimal, but an easy way to a make a difference in your outfit is to pop on a colorful lip. 

3 // A pretty beach blanket to have a picnic on. Also, makes a good backdrop for some awesome Instagram photos!

4 // These white shorts are a simple cover up that you can easily use throw in your beach bag. They are light weight and comfy. 

5 // I love love love love lovveeeeee (x 5) these J.Crew gold sandals. They are simple and chic and a great addition to your beach/pool & everyday wardrobe. 

6 // Okay, how awesome is this pretzel floaty? I was so upset I didn't have time to get this floaty for our Palm Springs adventure but there will plenty of summer pool parties to make up for it! 

7 // Evian water spray is a great way to cool off while you're laying in that summer heat.

8 // & Of course, the perfect swim suit to add to your beach / pool vacation. Your swim suit can make or break your experience at your beach / pool vacation. Make sure you pick the right bathing suit for your body time and that you feel confident in it.

Hope this helps your packing plans on your next adventure! xoxo

FRIDAY FINDS: PHOENIX ART MUSEUM

 Art is subjective--and I'm not going to sit here and say I'm a very 'artsy' person. I enjoy clothing, film, costumes, photography, & the occasional painting. I can't tell you anything about the best new artist or even what a certain painting 'means.' What I can say is that art gets us thinking. 

What was the artist thinking? 

What was their message they were trying to convey? 

Was there even a message? Or was the artist just high & painted this thing? 

When I saw that the Hollywood Costume Exhibit was coming to the Phoenix Art Museum, I couldn't help but get excited. I wouldn't normally go to a local museum. The only museums I've been to are the ones my parents dragged me to. However, I majored in Film and Media Studies (more on the later...) so I thought what a great way to celebrate my love for both film and clothing. I won't tell you much about the exhibit because honestly, you need to see it! Trust me, it's worth the money and I wouldn't steer you wrong. There isn't a better way to beat the heat this summer than spending it in a cool stylish museum downtown. 

Wednesday evenings from 3pm-9pm are free admission to the museum then just $20 for the Hollywood Costume Exhibit. Make an evening of it-- grab dinner & drinks then go stare at some artwork and act like you know what you're talking about...because I sure don't. :) 

^^Jennifer Lawrence's Calvin Klein dress she wore to the Oscars^^ Ahh

red white & blue

Romper // Vest --Old // Sunnies // Burks

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend! I got a little bit of cabin fever as we stayed in the house at Palm Springs the entire time.. We had a lot of fun though! It is always nice to catch up with old friends & laugh at how stupid we used to be.

Have a great day as we all get back to the grind.