New Jewlery for Sale

Okay Guys and Gals, I have some stellar news for everyone. I am starting the process of getting all my jewelry ready to go for sale. So, if you are interested in purchasing some items, stay tuned for the deets.

Just to give you a brief history, I have been a big hands-on person since I was a child. I was the kid that wanted the crafting kits, and I was so fortunate to have various family members purchase me DIY kits for all kinds of projects. As I grew older, and my tastes changed, I started getting more into jewelry. My mantra has always been, why pay so much for a beautiful piece at the store when I can easily make it myself. As a teenager, a budget is essential to ensure you can do what you want and get things you like as well. Thus, the budget fashionista inside me was created. Since then, I have been making jewerly and other pieces for my friends until one finally suggested that I take my hobby and talents and sell them. And, after much trial and tribulation, I am finally able to start bringing my passions to life to share with everyone. I hope you enjoy my pieces and I look forward to making more items for everyone.

Thanks!
Lauren
The Thrifted Owl

Liberty Trail Instagram Contest Winners - Richmond.com: Discover Richmond

Hey All!
I have been super busy with some amazing upcoming projects I cannot wait to show you. However, I have also been busy trailing around town taking photos of this beautiful city and accidentally took 3rd place in an Instagram contest.

Check it out!! (and for more photos, check out Instagram @baconneggs)

Liberty Trail Instagram Contest Winners - Richmond.com: Discover Richmond

Supporting Your Local Community

One big thing I take into consideration when I am going to purchase something (regardless if I am looking for a great price or just wanting to find the best quality for my buck), I consider shopping local. Big box stores and chains (like Best Buy, TGI Friday's, etc.) lose what local owner have - they are right where we are. When I shop local, I give back to my city. The money I give a local merchant stays here -and I have found they provide the best services. Some of my favorite places to eat are locally owned right here in my own city.

One of my favorite venues in my city is coming up the weekend - called Arts in the Park. It is where local people bring their crafts, art, and homemade goods to one of the local parks, Byrd Park. It is free to attend and parking is also free. The people there are locals that live in my city and surrounding counties and they bring their items to the park for purchase. Some of my favorite pieces of jewelry and art work are from this event. It happens every year- during the Spring- and is one of the busiest times of year for my city. I am excited to share that one of my dear friends Lisa, known at The Pumkin Lady, will be there selling her items from her Spinbob Studios collections. I cannot wait to see her and support all these great artists!

If you are in the Richmond, VA area and are looking for great, local merchants to support, please check out this link for more! And, if you so happen to be in Richmond, VA this weekend, check out Arts in the Park!

My Latest Thrifted Finds

I have been super swamped with the whole moving and packing we have been doing lately that I have not many oportunities to go thrifting lately like i typically do. But i did want to share with you guys my latest finds. If you have been following me on Instagram, you have seen some of the goodies i have snagged up.

I was so lucky to snag up these two beauties at my local Goodwill. I love Pyrex and this piece not only came with the top ( a very rare find indeed) but there were no chips/dings on it. Perfect condition and perfect price! I have also been keeping my eye on this set of owl candles at Target. It was pure luck of the irish that i found them at Goodwill - for an even better price!

One of the colleges where I live is University of Richmond. I often considered going there for law school but deemed that career path not for me. But, my love for their school still knows no bounds- even though I was never a student there. So, finding this beauty at Goodwill for $3 was a steal to me. Most of these shirts you buy online or at the campus can cost $20-$30 clams. Saving money makes this gal happy.

One of the places I rarely venture to is the Salvation Army. There was one quite close to me awhile back but after moving to this side of town, I have never traveled to this semi-new location. In the past, the Salvation Army  location that was near me was so picked through, i could not even find my size in anything. So, I stopped going....after many, many attempts! So, when this semi-new store opened near me, I had to check it out...and I walked away with a few pieces that I love. What luck was it to find an Express Blazer, Banana Republic Striped T, NY&Co. Blouse, American Eagle Sweater, and Mossimo blouse for all under $20. Man, what a lucky day. Sadly, the Salvation Army store closed within an hour of me arriving so I did not get to look around as much as I normally would have.

Take my advice, you can always find great pieces thrift shopping. And, for a fraction of what you would normally pay at the mall. Some of the pieces that my friends love (and I get complimented on the most) were pieces I paid the least for. Happy Hunting fellow thrifters!

Moving Inspiration

With moving around the corner, I have been searching for new ideas to keep my home space as fresh and fun as possible. The only possible bonus to moving is being able to decorate a new place a bit different than what you had before. With us moving to a bigger space, it is going to allow me to expand and try some new things. Here are some things I am currently loving.

Coffee Station



Amazing Living Room

Mini Bar



Rolling Side Table



Kitchen Organization



Rainy Day Makeup

My makeup routine is fairly simple- yet when the weather hits, most of the time I just want to grab a blanket and stay snuggled up in bed. However, there are times where I have to leave the house in a somewhat presentable manner.  For rainy days, I like to keep my makeup simple and subtle. This is what I use.



I always start with the base of my skin and work my way out.....starting with my lotion.

• I love this Yes to Tomatoes repairing acne lotion. It is a great base for my T-zone and helps prevent blemishes.
• After this dries, I add my cult classic Oil of Olay (with SPF 15- not pictured) on top. I have been using this lotion on my face since my teen years and it has proven to be a staple in my skincare routine.
• Next, is the CoverGirl/Oil of Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation. This is my miracle worker. It spreads easily (i use my fingers) and covers blemishes, skincolor variations and smooths problematic skin areas. It really is a great miracle worker- especially in a pinch!
• If I am not using my CoverGirl/Olay foundation, then I use my Bare Minerals powders. The price is no laughing matter but I have never found a better base of makeup in my life. It is worth EVERY SINGLE penny. This stuff was a miracle worker on my face during outbreaks in college. I will never use any other powder for my skin. I never break out when I use this product alone.
• For my cheeks, I use ULTA's Cheek Color. It is a budget fix that works just as well as name brand products with just as much pigment.
• For a bit of eye pop, I line my eyes with NYC Kohl Liner. These budget-friendly eyeliners pack a punch for very little money.
• Finishing the routine, I use CoverGirl's Professional Super Thick Lash Mascara. I could use a waterproof mascara but this formula makes my lashes look fantastic. If you want a good waterproof mascara, stick with the classic Maybelline.

And there you have it! Budget beauty buys that work in windy/rainy weather days. Remember, beauty does not have to break the bank!

Thrifting Trip this Weekend

This weekend I was in the mood for a little thrifting trip. I did a bit of driving to this great store called The ROC- it is a great consignment store that is not exactly close to where I live but the drive is always worth it. They have so many great furniture pieces that I cannot help but dream about so many great re-dos. I snagged up this adorable picnic basket, blue pyrex glass pie container, green J.Crew tshirt (not pictured) and creme brule dish for $15. Scored this round for the home. Love these items.

They did have the most amazing chair - that looked exactly like this target baby I have been eyeballing for quite some time now. Of course it is not in that exact pattern and MAYBE if I had the space in my car, she would have come home with me. For now, I dream.

Poshmark: An Alternative to Craigslist

Have you guys ever heard of Poshmark? Apparently, it is this new way to sell your clothing/jewelry and other items online. Kind of like a Craigslist for your closet. People can go online and view your clothing and you can sell it. And, if you have an iPhone or iPad, it is even easier for you to download their app. All you have to do is take a picture of the item you want to sell and post it for those to see. Once someone agrees to the price, Poshmark ships you a postage box to send out the item to the buyer. Once the buyer recieves the package, you get payment. Super easy right?

The best part is that all of the items are reasonably priced! For example, this Coach Silk Scarf is $55 clams - retail is much, much higher. If that is still a bit pricy for you, there is this cute 3 piece bangle set for $25. Great arm candy! But, there is a lot more and some pieces still have their tags. So, if you are in search of a bargain and do not mind purchasing someone's old treasures, then look around and see what you find.

Budget Last Minute Valentine's Day Gifts

It's the day before the big Valentine's Day Gift Exchange and for you lovers out there (who are on a budget), without a clue as to what to get that someone special on your list, I am here to help!

For Your Gal Pals:
Have an office BFF that is there for you when the boss just does not understand? Take this cute baby girl shower gift idea and turn it into one for her. Snag up a great pink or red polish and use a DIY tag for her. She will appreciate the gesture and the expense will be the polish!

For The Kids/Classmates:

Maybe you have kids that want to make their own valentine's favors for the kids in their class? Why not do a similar idea like blogger A Small Snippet and give these cute Pop Rocks goodies. I'm sure you will rock when you give one of these out! The best part is that these candies (or any other candy subsitute can be purchased in bulk!)

For the Guy's Guy:

Most guys like their signature beverage of choice. Some guys like beer. Some like Whiskey. Some just don't care. Why not grab a few of these mini-bottles at the store and fill a valentine's day heart with his favorite minis! Bonus: If you want to personalize each bottle, use personalized labels for each bottle.

For the Cheesy Romantic:

We all know someone who just loves being in love. Why not make them this simple easy card using cardstock, colored paper and a match book. Cheap. Fun. Priceless.

Well, my candy-loving, heart-drawing, budget romantics, I hope you have found a great budget gifts for that special someone on your list!

Furnishly: The New Furniture Mecca

Have you guys ever heard of Furnishly? It is pretty much a craiglist-type website for home furniture. And, they have some amazing classic pieces. Thanks to Pinterest, I stumbled across this little gem while looking for some vintage pieces for my ever-evolving home. And, when I found my local city listed, I jumped aboard to see what they had. Furnishly is a bit different than Craiglist. It also has some local stores that post their furniture as well. So, if for example you are looking for a store seller instead of a local seller, you can search their stores (under your particular city) and find their listings. And, you can even list your own items.

Here are some of my favorite items I have found......

This Super cute night stand in Detroit, MI for $20. What a steal for such a great piece. It is beautiful as a white piece, but can you image painting it another great color?

I am in love with this Z Gallerie green chair set inspired by Jonathan Adler. If you live in San Francisco, snag these up for $35.

I really adore this Richmond, VA Crate and Barrel yellow sofa. A bit out of my normal price range for steals and deals, it can be yours for $550.

Check them out! You may find some great deals or some beautiful pieces ready for a face lift without the hefty price tag.



Valentine's Day Dinner 1

Valentine's Day is a time to shine. Bring out your best in a flattering little dress to add that bit of pop to the night. This outfit screams fancy dinner and if your beau is taking you out for a night on the town, show him your classic style. Paired with a high heels and a simple clutch, this outfit let's the dress do all the talking. For any bold outfit, it is always best to pair simple items, like this bracelet to let it shine! Don't forget that bold lip to tie in the outfit. Makeup and hair do not have to be fussy- do what makes you feel your best! And, top your outfit off with your signature scent to add that last bit of WOW factor to the night!

Apartment Therapy's January Cure

Have you guys heard about Apartment Therapy's January Cure? It is their January challenge to pretty much get organized and clean to get you out of those January blues. Most of the challenge has been seen on Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest, but you can still join in on the to-do- yes even though tomorrow is the last day.
Each day you receive and email about the asisgnment, a couple of links to assist you and everything to help you reach your goal for the day. Even though the challenge is almost up, it is still a great way to spruce up the home and get it in working order...a bit of spring cleaning done early!

Method Cleaning Supplies via my Instagram

One of the challenges includes green cleaning. Here are my Method green cleaning sprays I use to clean around my home. Target had a killer sale on them (3 for $8- and I had a coupon) so these were super cheap...and one was already on clearance. So, this is what I did for one of my challenge days.

Again, even if the challenge is over tomorrow, it is not too late to get started on some home revamping to start the 2013 year off right!!

DIY Jewelry Shadowbox

I have been fascinated with shadowboxes for awhile now. I have always love the various styles and designs so many people have done to create a scene for display. Between the ones that are interchangable as the decor in your living room to the ones that are a permenant display of a vacation or momentos, they have always made me want to make my own.

I was lucky to snag up a very large shadowbox at Michael's for $1.49 on clearance and I have been brainstorming like crazy to come with a great idea to put it to use. Now, I can finally share with you guys what I did with it!

I have been eye-ing this super cute jewelry display from Home Goods for a bit now, without buying it. I am one of those shoppers who goes "I could make that" and ultimately does not buy the item because I want to make it myself. And, I did.

For my display, I added some scrapbook paper I already had to the back for a fun design and used push pins I had in my sewing kit to hold the jewelry in place. The shadowbox already has a foam back so it was super easy to add in the push pins to hold my necklaces. So, instead of paying $15 for a jewelry display at Home Goods, I made my own for $1.49 for the shadowbox (since I allready had the other items on hand).

Here is the shadowbox - hung above my already full jewerly box. I think it turned out amazing - and much more stylish than the one from Home Goods.

DIY Valentine's Day Wreath

I have been busy looking for some great decoration ideas that will vamp up my home without breaking the bank account. Pinterest always has so many great home decorating ideas you can do for just pennies. I found this great heart-shaped wreath and knew I could replicate it with some simple and cheap items.

You will need:

• Hot Glue Gun (one stick of glue will do)
• Heart-shaped wreath (found at any craft store- I snagged mine at Joann Fabrics)
• 1 ball of yarn (I found mine on cleanrance for $0.59 at Michael's) **the amount of yarn you will need will be determined by the size of your wreath. I had a small wreath, so I only needed one ball of yarn**
• 1 sheet of pink felt
• 1 sheet of red felt
• 2 bamboo skewers (or salvaged fallen wooden sticks will do too!)
• 2 yards of ribbon (to hang the wreath)

All I did was hot glue the starter piece of the yarn in the back of the wreath and wrap the entire foam wreath with the yarn. I found that I needed to hot glue some layers of yarn down to ensure the yarn would not move - best to keep it glued where you know no one will see the glue). You will also have to hot glue to last piece of yarn to the back of the wreath as well to ensure it does not come loose and unravel.

Next, I cut the red felt sheet into a large heart and the pink sheet into the D-shape for the fletching of the arrow. Then, I cut two bamboo skewers to fit on my wreath (for the arrow). I stabbed each one into the wreath- securing the bamboo skewer in the wreath with a drop of hot glue in the hole I made. I hot glued the felt pieces onto my wreath and used my ribbon to create the loops needed to hold the wreath up on the wreath holder for my door.

Here is my finished product!! Good Luck and feel free to message me if you have any questions!!

My Makeup Routine

My Makeup Routine

I have always gone for the basics that I really love- products that are worth splurging on that work well with budget favorites. Here are the products I use daily for my makeup!

1. Bare Minerals with SPF 15 - this gives my skin a bit of color and really helps even out my skin tone- no BB Cream required with this amazing product. I have been using this makeup for years and I am thankful you can now purchase it at the mall or online. This particular powder is great for covering up blemishes and uneven skin tone. I have relatives that use it who swear it covers up under eye circles and starting age spots. Great for any skin type- it is even great to wear to bed.
2. Bare Minerals Mineral Veil - this is pretty much airbrushing in powder form. Recommended to go on top of your Minerals Foundation powder, this finishing powder helps keep the flawless look compete. I really love how, when combined with the other mineral powder, I look like I have had my makeup done professionally!!
3. NARS Blush in Orgasm- This is a super light weight powder that packs a punch. A bit more pricey of an item, it does last quite a bit. I have tried other blushes, but this has always been tried and true! A great staple to your makeup routine.
4. MAC Eyeliner - This black is bold, agressive and long-lasting. It goes on super smooth but will smudge well for a smokey eye. I have been a fan of MAC products for a few years now. It is more of a splurge item (NYC pencil liners work well too) but this has staying power that cheapies just do not have. When I splurge, I splurge on this item.
5. CoverGril & Olay Simply Ageless Primer - I am so glad these two companies came together and created a great product line. This primer I actually put on after my Oil of Olay face lotion and before my Bare Minerals powders. It keeps the skin fresh and youthful and keeps the moisture of my skin in check. I have tried pricer products (Smashbox, anyone?) but this is a great budget alternative I think I will stick with.
6. CoverGril Professioanl Super Thick Lash Mascara- I have always been a fan of the tried and true of the Maybelline Great Lash classic, but this is my new BFF. My lashes are not thick but this product will not tell my secret. Whatever they use, it works. And, the brush helps prevent clumping so my lashes look full and not fake!
7. Revlon Colorburst LipGloss- I love, love, love this product. I picked it up a couple of months ago for a bolder oxblood/red combo and have never looked back. This gloss has lasted all day and has proved to be killer looking in photos. Always a plus during the holiday season!
8. Wet N Wild Color Icon Collection in Walking on Eggshells- this natural eye combo really makes my blue eyes pop! It is light and airy and goes on super smooth. For a drugstore budget item, this product packs a punch. I have used it to make the under part of my eye pop- without the darkened look around the eye. It makes me look awake - when I have just rolled out of bed. It is a basic when I just wanna put on something quick before going out to start the day.

These are my favorite products which are now a part of my daily routine. Some pricey, some budget, but all worth every penny to own.

Budget Beauty Buys

Budget Beauty Buys

I love products that pack a punch but do not break the bank. These are some of my favorite daily beauty products I use every day.

1. TRESemme Naturals Shampoo- literally one of the best smelling conditioners I have found. I love the scent and it is super lightweight for anyone that needs the conditioner without the weight. I love that it doesn't come with a lot of heavy chemicals so my hair stays healthy without all that interference to imbalance my hair.
2. Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo- I really fell in love with this shampoo after my hairstylists told me it was a great alternative to Pureology's Hydrating Shampoo. Not only does it save me money but it gives me the hydration my hair tends to need.
3. Clean&Clear's Exfoliating Daily Face Wash- I tend to get really bad bouts of acne about once a month. This help keeps my skin in check and since it does not cost a lot, using it more than once a month is easy peasy on my budget.
4. Dove Nutrium Moisture Body Wash - I love, love this bodywash line. My skin in the colder months needs so much moisture. Luckily, I can skip on having to layer on the heavy lotion thanks to this bodywash. I have not found a scent I have not liked and I feel so super soft after using it. I have even used it as bubble bath too when I have been in a fix.
5. Vaseline mini-tub- this cute little mini goes straight in my purse or pocket without taking up so much space. It is perfect for a quick dip of the finger to keep my lips smooth and chap-free. I tend to get chapped lips easy during the winter months and this helps keep my lips from feeling the burn!
6. Oil of Olay's Daily Complete Face Moisturizer- this product is my go-to for my face. I do not know anyone that is allergic to it and it does not break me out. I have been using it for years and I swear to anyone that asks that it really does help against the aging process of my beautiful skin. Right after I get out of the shower, I cover my face and neck. This is my little fountain of youth in a jar.
7. Neutrogena's Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes- I love how easy these are to use. After a long night out, I am ready to go to bed (not wash my face). That is why I rely on these soft towelettes to remove all my makeup from my night out. It cleans my face quickly so I can go to bed. Best part is they are alcohol-free so they will not burn to clean off the eye makeup. I do have to wash my face the next morning, but I do that anyway.

Anyone else know of any great budget beauty items they love and swear by?!

DIY Earrings

I came across this pair of earrings on Pinterest and I figured I could make my own...and I did!

It was super easy to make and the best part is that I had everything I needed on hand (easily purchased at a craft store like Michael's).

• Aventurine Beads - I used three different sizes ( one lg, 2 med, and 3 smalls per earring)
• Oval Chain - silver (any will do- depending on the style you want)
• earring hooks
• Head pins - you will use these to connect the beads to the chain.

Insert one bead onto a head pin. Using the round nose pliers, bend the head pin at a 45° angle. Using the side cutters, trim the edge to about ¼". Using the round nose pliers, make a simple loop to secure the bead. This creates the mini charm.

Making the color bead dangles:Using the side cutters, trim the edge to about ¼". Using the round nose pliers, make a simple loop to secure the bead onto the chain. I used one bead per link in the chain.

Attach the rectangular bead to the fish hook ear wire. Repeat steps to complete earring set.

Thrifty Weekend Finds

This past Saturday I did a bit of thrift shopping. I love thrifting- the idea of snagging up a little gem hiding just for you thrills me to no end. I love that my finds always fit in my budget and more often then not, I do not have to do any revamping to the item - clothing, furniture, etc. This weekend was no different.

I score a Sm Cordory American Eagle Jacket, Sm Red Target Raincoat. Two (other not pictured) BKE Jeans and a Coach handbag. What great finds and they all fit me so well. I cannot wait to share some upcoming photos with you all. Can you believe I got two jackets, two pairs of jeans and one handbag....all for $15!!! I was in heaven! It is amazing what you can snag up for under $20. Anyone can be stylish- it is knowing where to look. And these all make great staples for any closet. Happy Hunting!

Makeup Organization

Before!!

I have been really good about keeping my makeup fairly organized but I felt maybe it was time to reorganize things to start this New Year off right. It was looking a bit cluttered! In search for a new way to organize my makeup, I was fairly certain that I wanted it to be somewhat easy to access daily and still allow room for additional items. Thankfully, on Pinterest, I saw this and knew it was exactly what I was looking for. And, the best part is that I had all I needed on-hand to do this re-organization so this project was FREE - which is exactly in my budget.

AFTER!!

It was super easy to re-create. I used the same exact drawer system (purchased at Walmart a few years ago for $5 in the office supply section). The bottom drawer holds my eyeshadows, eyeliner, and mascara. The top drawer holds my powders, my face lotion (I always use the Oil of Olay in the jars), lip liner, lipgloss and lipstick. On the top I have a basket (dollar section at Target) that holds my brushes, liquid makeup and a pouch (from Sonia Kashuk for Target line) that holds my travel mini-makeup samples. I also have a small container that holds my mini perfumes and burts bees lip jar. My Vera Bradley mini-bag holds my spare makeup brushes.

It has been easy to use and find everything and the drawers make it easy to hide any cluttered mess on the inside of the drawers. I love how it hides everything and yet is so versatile. It has made getting ready so much faster now I can find everything.

Jewelry Displays

A mess!

I find that I have a ton of jewelry. I find pieces, fall in love and tend to not get rid of any. But, storage for my ever-growing collection has become a bit of a challenge these days. I told myself one of my New Years Resolutions was to organize this a bit better and even though this is going to be quite the process, I am off to a good start. I was so lucky this weekend to stumble across a few clearance items in Target that is helping me in my challenge to organize my mess a bit better.

First thing I came across was this super cute plate in the bathroom decor section. It has this simple sweater detail that makes this simple item have just a bit more pizazz! For only $4 on clearance, I was able to find a place for my easy grab-n-go pieces, like my watches and earrings.

Next, I snagged up this adorable DVF Jewelry Box I have been eyeing for awhile now. Thankfully, they had one left (without any blemishes) for $14. Now I have a place for some of my more bolder statement pieces! Bonus that this piece is also perfect for decor - so if you do not want to store jewelry, it would be perfect for other items if your choosing.

I could not stop myself from buying this coffee mug tree. For only $7, I finally have a better storage option for my bracelets - and it lets me see what colors I have. The down side to this piece is that it will only hold a few of my bangle-style bracelets- so many of the other ones are still being stored in my jewelry box. But, I have not given up on the hunt for another bracelet tree!