DIY December: DIY Christmas Ornaments

Hello lovelies!

With only a few days left until Christmas, I am back today with a Christmas themed post, because let's be honest, who doesn't like Christmas?!

I love everything about Christmas. The music, gift-giving, spending time with family, yummy food, but most importantly, the Christmas decorations.

Today I am gojng to show you how to make your very own DIY ornaments for the holidays.  They make great gifts and add that extra bit of festive spirit to your Christmas Tree!

What you need:
1. Clear plasric or glass ornaments (I used plastic but both work. I got mine at Michaels.)
2. Mod podge (1 small bottle)
3. Your choice of glitter
4. Any other small Christmas decorations you would like for you ornament. (I went with a mini christmas-tree, holiday stickers, gift tags, and bows.)
5. Glue gun + hot glue stick
6. Ribbon

Let's get started!

Ornament 1: Glitter Ornament 

Step 1
Begin by painting the inside of your ornament with mod podge. Quickly before it dries, sprinkle you choice of glitter onto to cover the mod podge. Make sure the inside of the ornament is fully coated with the glitter. The mod lodge will dry clear.

Step 2: close the ornament and give the ornament a shake to make sure the inside is fully coated. You may wish to do this process a few times to ensure that the glitter is vibrant and covers the ornament.

Now enjoy your DIY glitter ornament and hang it on  your tree for everyone to enjoy! A little sparkle goes a long way :)

Ornament 2: Christmas Tree Ornament 

Step 1: Take your ornament and glue gun your mini christmas tree to the bottom of one side. Let that dry completely before continuing.

Step 2: next take some white glitter and pour it in one side of the ornament. Then close the ornament and shake. It makes it look like a snowy Christmas scene.

Now enjoy your snowy christmas tree ornament!

Ornament 3: Happy Holidays Ornament

Step 1: This is another quick and easy ornament to make. I simply used some left over Christmas stickers I had and put them on the outside of the ornament. This one took me all of one minute but adds some festive spirit to my Christmas tree!

Get creative and decorate this ornament however you want!

Ornament 4: Joy ornament

Step 1: This ornament is super simple,  but really cute! Start by putting your gift tag inside your ornament. I chose one that said Joy and it happened to fit perfectly inside my ornament. Close the ornament and tie a ribbon to hang on the tree.

Enjoy this simple, yet beautiful addition to your Christmas tree!

I hope you enjoy these DIY festive ornaments! Let me know if you re-create any of these!

Happy Holidays! 

<3

Getting Crafty with Mason Jars: Holiday Edition

Hello lovelies!

What better way to kick of December, than a good old DIY! I love Mason Jars and I think that there is so much you can do with them. I have an exciting post for you today: how to get crafty with mason jars for the holiday season. Enjoy :)

1) A Jar of Hot Chocolate Mix: This is the perfect gift Idea for your friends, family, or even co-workers. You can customize this however you so please. I decided to put in some Carnation hot chocolate mix, along with some mini marshmallows. I also decided to add some crushed candy cane bits to make my hot chocolate mix all the more festive! Finish you mason jar with a cute little gift tag and a plaid ribbon, and you are all set!

As an alternative, you can also put some of your favourite pre-packaged hot-chocolate mixes and/or teas that you enjoy for the holiday season. This would also make a great gift!


2) A Jar of Joy: fill your decorated mason jar with things you accomplished in the new year. Then once it is full, you can look back on all the wonderful things you have done over this past year. Each note is a little memory that you can keep with you <3 Feel free to also include some of your favourite pics from 2016! Can't wait to look back and see what I have done in 2016.

3) A Candle Holder: Everyone loves a good candle. I have decided to use my mason jar as a candle holder. You could go simple and decorate the outside of my mason jar, and then put a tea light in the bottom of it. This makes for the perfect custom Holiday candle. I think it would be cool to get some spray on snow (available at Michaels) and spray the outside of your mason jar, to give is a winter effect. You could top it off my adding a bow and some mini mistletoe for decoration.

You can take it a step further and make your own candle! I am not that outgoing, but I would love to try it one day. You would need melting jar wax, a wick, a scent, a pot, and a thermometer. The materials for to make your own candle are a bit more expensive, and I am doing this based off a student budget....therefore, I picked the simpler route! It's simple, yet festive!

4) A Candy Jar: Candy is a must have during the holiday season, and why not store your favourite sweet treats in a mason jar! The mason jar makes for the perfect storage solution, and your candies will look so festive! I chose to fill mine with my holiday fave: Candy Canes!!

5) Mason Jar Mug: I have seen this done at a few trendy restaurant, and I think it is such a cute idea! Instead of serving drinks in normal glasses, or cups, serve them in a mason jar. To customize each mason jar mug, you can buy little chalkboard stickers and stick them on the mason jars so your guests can write their names on their mug. Now no one will forget who's mug is who's. This is perfect for holiday house parties! Don't be afraid to mix it up!

6) Have S'more Fun!: I love this idea, especially if you have a fire place. Include in your mason jar, all your favourite s'mores ingredients! I put in milk chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and some graham crackers. It looks so festive and makes for a great gift if you are going over to a friends, or family's house. This would also make a great idea for a secret santa present on a budget! It's festive, delicious, and fun!

Where I found my materials:

Michaels: ribbon, mason jars, bows, straws, jar decorations
Grocery Store: Candy Canes, graham crackers, chocolate, marshmallows
Bath and Body Works: candle (the scent I picked was called "Flannel")


I hope you enjoyed this Holiday post on getting crafty with mason jars! Let me know if you re-create any of them!

<3

10 Ways to Spread Holiday Cheer and Kindness this Year!

Hello lovelies!

As Christmas, and the holiday season is fast approaching, everyone is super excited about giving gifts, getting together with family, and

As the holiday season is fast approaching, everyone is decorating, baking, wrapping presents, and bringing forth their holiday spirit! I believe it is important to spread kindness and cheer throughout the holidays as well. Spreading kindness and cheer can definitely brighten someone's day, and can even brighten your day!

Here are 10 ways you can spread holiday kindness and cheer this year:

This was me singing Christmas carols with my school's Chamber Chorus to raise money for the Arts Program. 

                        

1) Volunteer: 
I always think it is important to give back and volunteer, especially during the holidays. Volunteering can range from helping at a food bank, to volunteering at the salvation army. This act of kindness will  hopefully help in brightening someone's day! It's time that we give back and provide for people who really need it. It's time to pay it forward!

2) Write Personalized Holiday Cards for your Friends and Family 
I love the idea of wishing your loved ones well, and what better way to do this than a personalized holiday card?! This little act of cheer goes a long way. This lets your friends and family know that you are thinking of them this holiday. Spread some cheer and write a card!

3) Buy Food for Someone Homeless
I can say from experience that this is one of the best way to spread kindness. One time, my dad and I saw someone on the side of the street downtown and he looked miserable. My dad decided to stop and get him slice of pizza. They joy in his face was priceless. Little gestures make a huge difference.

4) Send a Care Package to Someone in Need
I have done this one in the past and it makes the Christmas season that much more special. I have sent some Christmas boxes across the world through Operation Christmas Child, and knowing that I've helped a little boy or girl by bringing joy to their lives, fills me with joy. Again, it's a simple gesture, but it really means a lot to the children you are sending it to.

5) Buy Coffee for a Stranger 
I have wanted to do this for so long....I don't know why I haven't done it! When you go to pay for your coffee and muffin, pay for the next person's order. This will make their busy morning all the better, and will put a smile on their face!

6) Bake Christmas Cookies for Your Neighbours and Friends 
This treat will add a little sweat to someone's day. It might make them feel appreciated and loved. You could do all sorts of cookies: gingerbread, sugar cookies...whatever floats your boat! Bring on the Christmas baking!!!!

7) "Singing Loud for All to Hear" - Buddy the Elf 
In the wise words of my favourite elf, "sing loud for all to hear". Nothing says Christmas and the Holidays like some festive tunes and jingles. Don't be afraid to sing like no one's listening! I love a good Christmas song or carol. I am definitely one of those people who sing Christmas songs all the time during the holiday season, whether that be on the radio, in my car, or around my house! "Have a holly jolly christmas....."

8) Shovel a Neighbour's Driveway 
I know that this is extremely helpful, considering I live in Canada (way too much snow....). I am over the moon when one of my neighbours shovels my driveway without me knowing. It is an awesome little present to see your driveway all shovelled when you come home from school. I know my parents appreciate it too. I definitely want to try and do this more often this year for my neighbours. It is one less thing for them to have to worry about!

9) Decorate Your House! 
I am a sucker for decorating not only the inside of my house, but the outside! The feeling you get when you house is decked out christmas lights, and decorations, makes me so happy during the holiday season. Maybe even help decorate a friend's house! It leaves you with that extra little bit of Christmas cheer.

10) Host a Dinner for your Family
I love doing this for my family. Preparing meal for them would show how much you care about them and how much you appreciate everything they do for you. It is also a nice surprise for them, to come home to a home-cooked meal. The dinner can be as simple or complex as you want. If I were making a holiday dinner, I would maybe do some roasted chicken and potatoes. I would pair it with a nice spinach salad. Do whatever you enjoy cooking!

Food for Thought: Roasted Chickpeas

Hello lovelies!

I have a great recipe for you today. It's simple, healthy, and really say to make! Roasted chickpeas make a great snack or even a side dish.

Here is how to make this delicious treat:

Ingredients:
- 1 can of chickpeas
- 2 Tsp of Garlic Powder
- 2 Tsp of Italian Spice Blend
- 1 1/2 Tbsp of Roasted Garlic Olive Oil
- Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste

Cookware Needed: 
- 1 baking tray
- two medium sized bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Colander
- Whisk


Step 1:

Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees. Next, open your can of chickpeas and pour them into the colander. Rinse well, then put the washed chickpeas into one of your bowls. Then put the bowl
aside.

Step 2:

Next, take your garlic powder, Italian spice blend, roasted garlic olive oil, and lemon, and whisk them in your other bowl. It should look something like this. **Keep in mind, you can substitute for other spices. I know that thyme, and paprika work well too!

Step 3:

Then, take your chickpeas and pour them into the mix from step number 2. Make sure the chickpeas are coated well. They should look like this. **Keep in mind, you can add more spices or lemon if you feel it is lacking in flavour. This is just my preference.

Step 4:

Place your coated chickpeas on a baking tray and place in the oven for 30-40 minutes, depending on how crispy you want them. I usually put mine in for 35 minutes, so they are still slightly soft, but have nice outer crunch!

Step 5:

Add salt and black pepper to taste! Do this as soon as they come out of the oven. This way, the salt and pepper absorb into the hot chickpeas.

And last but not least..... ENJOY!!!!!


I hope you've enjoyed this quick little recipe. Fast, easy, simple......what's not to love!

<3

Top 10 Fall Fashion Trends

Hello Lovelies!

It's been a while since I've posted! Between the end os summer, the start of university, and getting adjusted to my crazy schedule I have neglected the blogging world :(

Never fear....I am back and ready for the fall season! I have some amazing blog posts to come and I can't wait to share them with you.

Today I am going to share my TOP 10 fall fashion trends for 2015!

1) The first trend we are seeing everywhere is pointed collars. We are seeing them on dresses, and shirts and they are the perfect detail to make any outfit stand out. I know that I love the fierce look of a pointed collar, and it adds a sort of sophistication to an outfit.

2) We are also seeing leather accents on clothing. This trend is awesome because I find that having a full leather outfit is a bit excessive, but by having a leather trim on shirt, for example, the leather looks tasteful and high fashion. 

Another way to incorporate leather is having leather sleeves. I have seen this look in many retail stores, such as Zara and H&M and it looks edgy, but still trendy! 

3) This trend looks very high-end but can be very affordable. Monotone clothing is all over the runways this fall and makes an outfit classy, and chic! 

Runway

4) I adore this trend. Cropped shirts or tanks with a matching lengthy pencil skirt. This is a look you could do instead of a dress and is all the rage for fall! You can jazz up this outfit with some statement jewelry and some cute wedges. 

Runway

5) Next we have the floppy hat. I wish I could pull this look off, but some people are just not hat people! I love how the hat adds a casual feel to the outfit. 

http://measureofattire.blogspot.ca

6) It's time for big glasses and sunglasses! You heard me ladies! Big glasses are back and looking fabulous for the fall season. As I like to say, go big or go home! ;) Now I know that these glasses are not everyone's style, but I love them! 

https://www.toovia.com

http://www.gurl.com

7) This has to be one of my favourite fall trends. It has always been a trend, but you are seeing them more and more this year: The Big Chunky Plaid Scarf!! They are cozy, trendy, and can add the perfect pop of colour to an otherwise, neutral outfit. Bring on the plaid scarves! 

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/556827941400260507/

8) Bags. Who doesn't love a good bag?! I have recently fell in love with a Bag brand called "Matt and Nat". This brand is to die for and is perfect for everything from business casual outfits, to trendy nights out! A lot of their bags are available at "Roadtrip" in the Byword Market (downtown Ottawa, ON). 

http://www.lyst.com

9) If you know me, you know I LOVE statement jewelry, especially statement necklaces! The sparkle, the textures, the colours....what's not to love! These are perfect to pair with any fall outfit this year. You could pair it with a chic blazer and loose fitting shirt, or even a sweater with a cute denim collar! 

www.featherfactor.com

www.popsugar.com

10) Last but not least we have Lace Up Shoes! I think these look adorable, and you can do them in either a heel or a flat! Perfect for any occasion in my opinion. I am more of a "flats" kind of girl, so these would be perfect for me. 

I hope you've enjoyed my Top 10 trends for the 2015 Fall season! Until next time, 

<3 

Shopping with Mel: Stunning Fashion Accessories

Hello lovelies!

I am coming to you today with a post about a fantastic little store called Stunning. It is a local Ottawa jewelry store located in the Byward Market!

It is the perfect place to find your dream statement necklace and/or your perfect pair of sparkly earrings! I have been there a few times and have never been dissapointed with the selection!

Stunning has jewelry from many different designers from around the globe such as jewelry from Greece and from Toronto.

If you haven't had a chance to visit Stunning, I highly suggest you do! I also had such  great customer service experiences each time I shopped there. Both the owner and employees gave me helpful advice on how to pair certain pieces of jewelry together. You feel so welcome as soon as you walk in the door and you leave feeling like part of the Stunning family!

Stunning always knows what's on trend and what pieces are in for the season! You can look trendy and not break the bank!

Here are some of the great pieces we found today:

My mom purchased the three bracelets in the middle from Stunning. They were the perfect addition to her arm candy and look fabulous!

These are the earrings I purchased today! They were two for $20 and came in a variety of gorgeous colours! I went with neutrals so they would go with everything. 

Thank you Stunning for a great experience. 

Follow Stunning:

Instagram: @stunningottawa

Facebook: Stunning fashion Accessories & then some

<3

OOTD: Bold Shift Dress

Hello lovelies!

I am currently in Mont Tremblant spending some time with my family for my summer vacation. Such a cute village, calls for an even more adorable outfit! I had just the one in mind for a night out on the town!

I decided to dress up a bit but still keep it somewhat casual and fun!

Here is what I decided to wear:

Dress: This stunning shift dress is from Express. When I saw it on the rack, I knew I had to have it. This dress makes me feel amazing and the shape is flattering on most body types. You can't see it in the picture, but I love how this dress also has a cute cutout in the back. The bold print is great for the Spring, Summer, and Fall. It is a dress that can be dressed up or dressed down. The bold print adds visual appeal. I LOVE IT!!!!

Bag: My bag is from Longchamp and was a generous gift from my best friend. I love this bag because of the space it has and the look it has. It's classic and goes with any outfit!

Sunglasses: My sunglasses are from Smartset. I love the shape of these glasses and they are fun for any season!

I paired my outfit with minimal makeup and a coral lip. I also wore a few bangles and my Pandora bracelet to top it all off!

I hope you enjoyed this OOTD and I hope all you lovelies are having a great summer!

<3

Elie Saab: My Fashion Icon

Hello lovelies!

Today I am coming at you with a post about someone who i think is extremely talented, and who possibly designs the most beautiful dresses in the world......it's Elie Saab. Now fort those of you who don't know, Elie Saab is a Lebanese fashion designer who has workshops in Lebanon, Paris, and Milan. He is known for his iconic dress style.

His dresses have been seen all over the red carpet and I admire his attention to detail when it comes to his embellishments and extraordinary beading work.

Here are some of my favourite dresses from Elie Saab:

This dress is probably my dream dress. The intricate beading and the high waist are gorgeous and accentuate the smallest part of your torso. I love how this dress flows when you walk.

This dress is stunning. I adore the scooped neckline of this dress and how he uses a slim belt to accentuate her waist. I LOVE that this dress has pockets too and the over-sized pattern makes for visual interest.

I have seen so many pictures of this dress and I am just in awe of how beautiful the beadwork is. The fact the the beading goes all the way down the sleeves, and on the chest area, draws attention upwards towards her face. It's just beautiful. Simple and elegant.

I don't know about you, but this dress reminds of a more sophisticated "Elsa" from Frozen. He uses almost an ombre technique where the top of the dress is transparent and fades into this silver/blue shade. Again he uses a slim belt to accentuate the waist. The beading looks like sparking snowflakes! 

Katy Perry is drop-dead G O R G E O U S, and this dress only enhances her beauty. The colour against her skin tone is perfection and the low back creates visual interest. It also creates a more sexy feel to the whole ensemble. I find that this dress really compliments her hair as well! 

I've noticed how Elie Saab uses a lot of greens and pales blues in his work. These two dresses are beyond perfect. I think it is the beading that I am really drawn to and it makes the dress sparkle without being tacky. 

I know this dress might not be everyone's style, but I adore the use of colour. The ombre effect with the fading colours adds visual interest and lengthens her silhouette. The neckline in this dress is also really cool. I've never seen any dress like this and it is definitely a unique piece. 

I hope you enjoyed some of my favourite looks from Elie Saab. He is one of my fashion inspirations and I can only hope to wear one of his dresses one day! A girl can dream.... 

<3

Food for Thought: Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

Hello lovelies!

This has to be one of my all time favourite recipes. "Greek Style" Lemon chicken and potatoes are a staple in my household and is the perfect meal for anytime of the year! It's really easy, requires minimum prep and tastes delicious.

Let's get started! 

Ingredients: 

- Small bowl of mini golden potatoes
- 4 Chicken Breasts
- 1/2 Cup Olive Oil
- 1/4 Cup Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/2 Cup of Water
- 1 1/2 Teaspoons of Oregano
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste

Utensils: 

- Large caserole dish
- Cutting Board
- Small mixing bowl
- Knife to cut potatoes
- Knife to cut the chicken breasts
- Measuring cups
- Teaspoon

Step 1: 

Before starting, you can set your oven to 475 degrees celsius so it can preheat while you prep your ingredients.

To begin, start by washing your potatoes.

Once you wash them you can move them onto a cutting board and cut them into halves. This helps them cook more evenly and they are end up being more bite-sized.

Step 2: 

Next, take you four chicken breasts and cut off any excess fat, and cut each breast in half, so you end up with eight smaller pieces. This helps when distributing the portions when it is fully cooked.

Step 3: 

Put your chicken and potatoes into the large casserole dish, and spread them out evenly.

It should look something like this:

Step 4: 

Set aside your casserole dish and bring out your small mixing bowl. In this bowl, put your olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and salt. Stir well.

Next pour your mixture onto your chicken and potatoes. Make sure that they are evenly coated. Once you coat your chicken and potatoes, grind a pinch of fresh black pepper as the finishing touch!

Step 5: 

Bake in the oven covered for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Then remove the lid from your casserole dish and continue baking in oven for 10 min.

The final product should look like this:

I love to eat my lemon chicken and potatoes with a side salad. I just did a very simple vinaigrette that consisted of oil and vinegar, and I put some dried onion croutons to top it off!

This is honestly one of the most delicious dishes ever and is great for family get togethers, parties, and everyday dinners! This dish was inspired by the Three Greek Sisters! They make amazing food and you should definitely consider purchasing one of their cookbooks if you want to learn more about greek cooking.

Hope you enjoyed this food for thought, and I will talk to you soon! Let me know in the comments if you try out this dish!

<3