Showing posts with label Blogoversary. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Blogoversary. Show all posts

5.10.2017

Wedding Inspiration

Hello Old Friends!

Remember little old me?

I can't believe this is just my second time posting in 2017! The window for a new year's post has come and gone, as has the window for a SIX year blogoversary post, BUT, my wedding is still 24 days away, so I don't think I've missed the window for a wedding inspiration post.

First things first, though, I can't say I haven't missed this space: I've missed it dearly, but when planning my new year's post that never was, I decided 2017 was going to be a year of, dare I say, apathy? No...that's not quite right, how about imperfection? Acquiescence? Unapologetic-ness?

You see, I think a part of the reason I never wrote that post was because, I couldn't find the right word to embody my goal for the year. I really wanted to choose one definitive word to drive my year ahead, yet, every word I came up with had a negative connontation. Let me tease it out for you. These words that came to mind - apathy, imperfection, acquiescence, unapologetic-ness - what they meant to me for 2017 was being more carefree, less of a perfectionist, accepting my limits, and not feeling bad about it.

I've never been shy in sharing that I'm a perfectionist (in fact, I mentioned it in one of my very first blog posts here), and while I think being a perfectionist has it's positives, it's also just plain exhausting!

As I embarked upon 2017, I knew that I'd have to be willing to cut myself some slack to stay sane whilst planning a wedding in six months, and managing a new job, that has been a great "career" move, but not the best "life" move.

All that being said, I never intended to abandon the blog to the extent I did, but it's one of the many balls I've had to decide not to juggle these last several months. I do miss the creativity, therapy, and connections blogging brings, but am grateful that I've been able to be an "Instagram-blogger" during my absence here.

So, unapologetically, that's where I've been. I'm hoping to be back more soon, but make no promises. I have lots of blog posts in the "queue," but then again this post has been in the queue, 75% written, since January. Apathy, imperfection, acquiescence, unapologetic-ness.

So without further adieu, here's my wedding inspiration post. I'm not going to adjust it too much from it's original version in January, but have a huge grin now at just how much I've accomplished since then. Pat on my own back? Don't mind if I do!

As you know, our engagement has been just over 6 months. I initially worried I might be crazy for choosing to have a short engagement, but things have all come together quite perfectly, albeit quickly!

If any of you are considering a shorter engagement I say go for it...if you already know what you want. For me, let's be real, Bryce and I have been together nearly six years, so I've been planning my wedding for years! It's really been just a matter of getting my ducks in a row and bringing my vision to life.

To set the backdrop, I'll first share our venue, the venue I've dreamed of for years: Tuckahoe Plantation. Not only is it the boyhood home of Thomas Jefferson himself, but it's also less than 20 minutes outside the city of Richmond, and just minutes from where I grew up! As you can imagine, it books up far in advance, so when June 3 was available I felt like it was fate! The crepe myrtle lined ceremony site is utterly gorgeous and reason enough to get married there (see here). We will have our cocktail hour in their main gardens, followed by a tented reception in front of the house itself. I am so giddy with excitement just typing these plans I've anticipated for so long!

Now what is this wedding I've been planning for years, you ask?

Let me show you...


When describing my wedding to vendors, friends, etc, I have shared that I envision a classic Southern garden soiree, but with a modern, fresh, and somewhat whimsical spin! Y'all know when it comes to fashion and interior design, I'm classic and traditional...with a twist...and I envision no less for my wedding day itself. Our colors are lilac and green with black, white, and gold accents. Oysters are also a bit of a theme. 

When I first wrote this post, I initially had drafted a "nitty gritty" section where I dove into a more detailed description of the different elements, but now that the wedding is so near, I'd rather let the specifics remain a surprise. I will share, however, that much of the inspiration board you see above remains on point with our final plan.

Any guesses what elements from the board will, or will not, be a part of our big day on June 3?

Have a great day!

3.16.2015

4 Years Ago Yesterday...

Happy Monday readers!


I am jumping for joy this morning as yesterday marked this blog's 4 year blogoversary!

This space has become sacred to me over the last 4 years. It is a place for me to be completely, honestly me and it is all mine. I can't believe all the twists and turns my life has taken since that very first blog post. I vividly remember returning back to school after spring break and spending a bored night deciding I would start a blog. It was a completely spontaneous decision and I hadn't even really been a blog reader before starting this journey. Little did I know how quickly I would become addicted to the blog world and all it has to offer.

The last year has been a whirlwind (and tough), as y'all know, but it has been a really pivotal year for the blog. On my last blogoversary I relaunched myself as Alexandra Bee Blog and said goodbye to my original identify of "Sundresses and Smiles."

So now, sit back and enjoy a little party for this blog's 4th birthday.


Grab a cupcake and enjoy the party's entertainment...a roundup of my favorite posts from the past year! 



Be sure to check out the ones you've missed:

04/14: Dearest Tory
07/14: BLT Bites
11/14: Holiday Gift Guides: Ladies, Gents, & Stocking Stuffers

I can't wait to see what the next year has in store for Alexandra Bee Blog!

One of the goals I have in the coming year is to boost my followership up to 700+! I'd like to pass a warm welcome to several new followers in the last few weeks and can't wait to make even more friends in this 4th year of blogging!

And PS--- Be sure to checkout Instagram this afternoon for an exciting Instagram only giveaway I'm hosting with several other fabulous ladies! The timing certainly is serendipitous! 

Have a great day!

3.14.2014

Alexandra Bee Blog!!!

Happy Friday sweet friends, and Happy 3rd Blogoversary to me!



Today we are celebrating more than just a blogoversary, though.  As I mentioned on Monday, today marks the launch of a new chapter in my blog's journey.  I am saying goodbye to Sundresses and Smiles and hello to Alexandra Bee Blog!

so long!

Like what you see!?

As I mentioned a while back, this new blog name has been more than a year in the making.  In fact, a year ago, in my 2nd Blogoversary Post, I first mentioned I was considering a name change.  As much as I love the name Sundresses & Smiles, I felt like I had outgrown it and wanted to find a name that really defined me, while also having the ability to grow with me.

It took me quite some time to find the name.  I brainstormed ideas all the time and compiled a huge list...finally, one night in December, the perfect name came to me while lying in bed.

Honestly, I dread those late night ideas.  It seems often my creativity is ignited late at night, but then I get so excited and full of energy that I can't sleep.  I ultimately came downstairs and played around until the wee hours of the morning, creating an inspiration board and searching for a blog designer.  I settled on Laura Wyatt Design and could not be happier with the choice (full post on that, coming soon!).


Now let me explain a bit more about the name.  My full name is Alexandra.  My middle name is Bennett.  Barbara Bennett was my mother's godmother and my namesake.  I never met her, but have heard stories about the woman she was my whole life.  She was a person that was full of style, a whole lot of fun, and never took life too seriously.  I'd like to think, that despite never having met her, I have inherited some of those qualities that made so many others love her.

Additionally, growing up, my mom and grandma would both sometimes call me "Alexandra B." for Alexandra Bennett.  I always loved when they called me this; it made me feel grown up and sophisticated.  I also have always loved bees, especially in emblems, logos, and design.  When the name "Alexandra B." came to me, I instantly knew that it had to be Alexandra BEE and I would somehow have to incorporate a bee into my design.



That being said, I'm still me.  You can expect the same types of posts, just under a new name and look.

So grab some champagne an a slice of cake, explore the new design a bit, and celebrate with me!


Have a great weekend!

3.15.2013

The TERRIFIC Twos

Happy Friday readers!!

T-minus 2 weeks until Spring Break!  I am pumped!!!

Had a good week?

Mine has been pretty good, but hectic!  These last few weeks have come with lots of lengthy after school meetings.  It's definitely been hard to juggle getting my workouts in, eating a healthy dinner, and finding time to blog, while still getting to bed at a reasonable hour, so I apologize if my posts have been a little unpredictable and boring, lately!

Anyways, onto today's post!

"Terrific twos...do you mean terrible twos?  Who?" you might be asking.

My answer is Sundresses and Smiles!

Today is this blog's 2nd birthday!

I can't believe that two years has already past since I began this adventure.  The last two years have been filled with many new and exciting things, so we definitely have cause to celebrate!

You're invited...

Make sure to get your finest party dress...
(Balloons will be aplenty!)

Prepare to pop some bubbly...

And indulge in some pretty desserts!

RSVP today...

Regrets only please!

In all seriousness, YOU, my readers are a big part of what pulled me back into blogging after my hiatus this summer and fall.  I love the connections I've made in the blog world.  Your blogs and support have made me smile, laugh, and cry.  You have taught me so much and enriched my life!  Thank you!

On a side note, I've been considering a blog name change for a while and thought this blogoversary might be a good time to take the plunge.  I have a name in mind, but wanted to see what y'all thought?  Do you think a name change would be okay?  If so, do you have any good ideas for a name that would suit this blog's personality?  Let me know!!!

Have a great weekend!

3.15.2012

What A Year...

Hello sweet friends!

Today we have reason to CELEBRATE over here at Sundresses and Smiles!  It's my blog's first birthday!  Sit down with a pretty piece of pink cake and stay awhile!  This LONG, special post is dedicated to YOU...my wonderful, dedicated readers!


On March 15, 2011 I published my very first post ever.  I was anxious, giddy, nervous, and excited!  Little did I know on that day, what the year ahead and blogging had in store for me.

Over the course of the year A LOT has happened in my life and the blog has served as a journal and way to share myself with the world.

Since March 15, 2011...

  • I started a blog and named it Sundresses and Smiles
  • I finished my four years as an undergraduate at THE University,
  • I moved home for a fun-filled summer with The Cuties
  • I met a boy...
  • ...and FELL IN LOVE!
  • I had my first (of hopefully many) bloggy meet-ups with Claire of Life in the Sweet Virginia Breeze
  • I made a blog Facebook page...please click here and "LIKE" it!!
  • I began student teaching and survived an earthquake during the second week
  • I realized blogging 5x a week might not be realistic in my post-college life,
  • I've made wonderful new friends and figured out ways to stay in touch with the old ones that now may be far away.
  • I was accepted into Teach for America, but realized, that my heart and home are in Richmond, VA
  • I joined and became obsessed with Pinterest.  (Check out my pins here!)
  • I've graduated with my Masters of Teaching.
  • I've made a blog best friend (stop by and say hi to Maddie at spark.)
  • I've witnessed my aunt's struggle and triumph over colon cancer (she still has a road ahead, but surgery was successful and the doctors said chemo is not necessary!!!)
  • I've begun substitute teaching and figured out what schools and grades might be the best fit for me,
  • I've begun the grueling and scary application process for a job in the fall
  • AND...I've written 213 posts about books, crafts, my shopping addiction, favorite recipes, Africa, children, my life and more!
But, what has been so special about this last year, is that I've had a whole new support network throughout all of these life events.  I've known that each of you is behind me and there for me.

You are what keeps me coming back for more, even these days when I rarely find time to blog.  You have made me smile, made me laugh, made me cry, and taught me A LOT.

In honor of this blogoversary I thought I would share an assortment of my favorite posts.  Y'all know I h ave trouble picking favorites, so it's quite the long list.  Some of you may be new to the blog, so check out some of the old posts you've missed.  Others have been here from the start and may remember these.  Scroll down my list of favorites--I hope that each of you will be able to find one (or FIVE) new posts you hadn't yet read and ENJOY!

Check out my very first introductory post, "Welcome" by clicking here!

Cycle is one of my all time favorite workouts but it can be intimidating at first...for an introductory guide, check out "Cycle 101" by clicking here.

Of all my book reviews, Firefly Lane still takes the cake--this book will change your life.  Read my review by clicking here!

I fully believe in making the best of what life throws your way, and throughout the last year I have looked back on this post many times to remind myself of my optimism during some of the tough times.  Checkout "Divine Intervention," by clicking here!

All you Southerners out there LOVED this post "Fabulous Front Porches."  Click here for some front porch eye candy!

Those of you that are new since the summer, probably have NO IDEA who the Cuties are--to learn about my two favorite kids, "Meet Cuties A and B" by clicking here.

I'm a huge fan of Self magazine and I shared an article that particularly stuck with me in this post "On Friendship."  Read it by clicking here.

If you're in need of a good laugh, check out "A 'Wow' for your Wednesday" by clicking here.

Read about the "Balancing Act" I, as well as many other women, face when trying to juggle our many roles and achieve perfection.  This is one of my proudest posts and I think it's a "must read!" Click here.

I still salivate over the thought of this "Italian Sausage and Wild Mushroom Risotto", check out one of the favorite recipes I've shared by clicking here.

New to blogging?  Check out my "Tips for New Bloggers" by clicking here.

To see the true blonde in me and get a good laugh read about "The Time I (Almost) Burnt the House Down" by clicking here.

Sunshine, cute Kids, beautiful flowers and wildlife...What more could you want!? To see a look at one of my favorite summer outings at one of my favorite Richmond spots "Maymont" click here.

In a crafty mood? Check out the perfect summery DIY wreath, here!

To relive one of my FAVORITE first dates with Bryce, check out my "Checklists" post by clicking here.  (FYI--We're still working on the list!)

To see what makes the Cuties so special and GOOFY, meet "The Diaper Heroes" by clicking here. (Interestingly enough, this innocent post is the one that has gotten the most negative/deletable comments!)

To see a really special day I had with my dad, uncle, and cousin on the water, check out "Here Fishy, Fishy..." by clicking here.

Bryce and I can manage to turn anything into an adventure.  To see how we survived Hurricane Irene, click here.

For one of my more frivolous, fun posts, check out my "Birthday List", here.

To take a picture walk through one of my favorite fall Saturdays, check out "Pumpkin Patching" here.

Interested in reading one of my proudest posts?  Check out this book review of A Long Way Gone from the "African Aspirations" series by clicking here

Any cookie monsters out there?  Check out this "WORLD'S BEST CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES"  recipes by reading here!

In "Thankful" I took some time to be gracious and acknowledge all I have to be thankful for--click here.

Bryce and I held our first annual Christmas Party in December--read about our "Fabulous Christmassy Weekend" here!

If you lived in Richmond and were able to shop at "Shops at 5807" you would understand my shopping addiction, look here!

When I started blogging a year ago, I wasn't much of a wine girl.  Over the course of the year I've learned to enjoy wine and have acquired a taste for white and (some) red wines.  To see a weekend visit to "Rosemont Vineyards and Winery" read here.

If you've read for a while, you know that my design style (and fashion style) is traditional with pops of modernity, bright colors, and bold prints.  To see the epitome of this style check out the "Lucite Bamboo Chair" I'm still drooling over here!

For a peek into my Valentine's Day with Bryce, read my "Heart Day Recap" here!

WOW! That was A LOT of posts--y'all know I'm horrible at picking favorites!  Are you still with me?  Do you have any favorite posts of mine?  How has blogging enriched your life?  

Thanks again for a wonderful first year of blogging---HERE'S TO MANY MORE!

xoxo,
Allie