An Anthropologie sale too good to pass up

With an extra $40% off sale items at Anthropologie, you need to hightail it over to the website or your nearest store and scoop some of these goodies up! If you're anything like me, you love so many items at Anthropologie, but the price point often makes many of the items unattainable. Not now. Get high style for a fraction of the price!

Here are my top picks:

Leather Monogram Pouch

Originally $38 | Now $15

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Holiday Gift Guide

Let the shopping games begin! I've pulled together some savvy and stylish gifts that are spot-on when it comes to sensible pricing. Whether you're shopping for that special lady in your life or treating yourself, I have a feeling you'll find something on this list that brings delight.

• Sparkle Corsage Stud Earrings: $14 (Black Friday special) | Banana Republic 
• Bella Sweet Sangria Tin Candle: $10.49 (+ buy one, get one free special) | Target
• French Kitchen Marble Cheese Board: $19.95 (+ 15% off for Black Friday) | Crate & Barrel 
• Handblown Glass Donut Ornament: $14.25 | Nordstrom
• Oh What Fun Kitchen Towel: $3.50 | Target
• Handblown Glass Flamingo Ornament: $21 | Nordstrom
• Prism Jewelry Tray: $15 | Uncommon Goods
• Crushed Velvet Ballerina Slippers: $9.99 (Black Friday special) | Macy's
• French Kitchen Marble Wine Cooler: $24.95 ( + 15% off for Black Friday) | Crate & Barrel

Happy shopping, my friends! 

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Locust Creek Caramel Apples: One tasty treat

An apple a day keeps the doctor away...am I right?

NKY and Cincinnati friends - I feel like I must tell you about these beautiful and absolutely delicious caramel apples. My high school friend Nicole received rave reviews when making them as a hobby and decided to offer them up to the locals.

I saw these and immediately thought they would be perfect for teacher or hostess gifts. With the holiday season upon us, I always have my eyes open for special treats that will serve as tokens of appreciation.

Love gourmet goodness too? Here's what you need to know: 

• They're only $5 a pop.
• Buy 6 apples, get 1 free.
• You can customize your toppings. Pick from a variety of candy bar or cookie options. Plus, select white or milk chocolate for an extra layer of goodness.
• Apples are good for five days (as long as you don't cut into them and wait five days).
• Do not store them in the refrigerator. 
• They come beautifully packaged.
• You can order through Locust Creek's Facebook page.

Now, who's ready to indulge or treat someone special?

I was gifted two apples to sample, but all opinions are my own.

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A Quick and Easy Fall Gift

My favorite time of the year is full of the most fun and festive goodies. Once the stores start putting out all of the fall decor and home accents, I can't help myself. I want all of it! So instead of buying it all for myself, I decided to spoil my friends. I put together two of these gift baskets for my besties who both have September birthdays.

It all started with this wooden, polka dot crate. I saw it on the shelf in Target yelling, or better yet, screaming my name. It's so Simply Sarah Style. I had to have it...uh, had to have it for my friends, that is.

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Beyond the obvious, 10 tools for new moms

I admit it. I was the girl at the baby shower who brought the cutesy outfits and monogrammed bib. Then the tables turned. I was expecting my first baby and quickly realized I needed practical items...many of which I didn't even know I needed. Yikes!

I instantly felt like a bad gift-giver, because I had been giving people the things they actually like to spend their own money, not the practical things they needed. Think about it. As a new mom, aren't you excited to buy cute clothes and accessories? But, you're not excited when you realize how many practical things you need, and those things, my friend, aren't fun to spend your money on.

The items above ended up being godsends. They're items that make my life as a mom easier, especially as I try to master the parenting game. Some are unexpected. Some are a little more typical, but the brand or texture truly made a difference to me.

• Rosie Pope Blankets - We keep two of these in our diaper bag. They're small enough that they don't take up much room, but large enough to throw over the car seat as a protector from the rain, wind, etc. Rosie Pope has the cutest line of baby clothes and accessories. I absolutely adore the blankets we have and have given her flamingo bibs and burp cloths as gifts. (For the record, bibs and burp cloths are practical items. I didn't have nearly enough when our sweet boy was born. Can you ever have enough bibs or burp cloths? I think not.)

• Fischer-Price Rock-n-play Sleeper - I had no idea I needed this specific model. My friend, (a seasoned mother herself) actually pointed out that I wouldn't be happy with the brand/model I originally selected. She said, "You need to take that back immediately. I promise you'll thank me later." She was right. I purchased the same model she had and have to say this is the most useful piece of gear we own. The difference between this model and others is the fact that this one rocks itself. Most vibrate, but require you to physically rock the sleeper yourself. This one does it all! It rocks, vibrants and plays several different white noise sounds.

• Baby Saline Spray - Our sweet boy was so stuffed up during his first few months. Listening to him try to breathe was awful. It even affected his eating. We used this spray often.

• Nose Frieda - My husband still thinks this is gross. Essentially, you use a tube (a sanitary tube) to suck snot out of your child's nose. Crazy, I know, but it works. It's not cheap either, but is worth the investment when clearing your child's nasal buildup.

• IKEA Kallax Shelving Unit - Seriously, this is the best addition to your child's closet! Depending on the size of the closet, use it horizontal as a side board to create storage and an extra surface space, or use it vertical as a standard bookcase.

• Babies-R-Us 2-in-1 Activity Walker - We just ordered this during a sale and only ended up paying $25 for it. It's been perfect for our five-month old, who is not content just hanging out in the sleeper anymore. He wants to move. This walker is adjustable, so you can set it at the perfect height for your little one.

• OXO No-spill Formula Dispenser - I started out breastfeeding and eventually switched to formula. I had no idea this handy container existed. I was just carrying around a full canister until my best friend suggested this small dispenser.

• Boon Yard Drying Rack and Accessories - Cute and pratical! Can't beat that. I'm surprised by how many people comment on this drying rack when they visit.

• IKEA Drawer Storage Organizer Bins - Seriously, get these. Get one set for each of your dresser drawers. You'll thank me later. They're perfect for organizing socks, bibs, pacifiers, clothes by size...you name it! 

Seasoned mommas - What are your go-tos?

(Affiliate links were included in this post.)

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A look back on 2015

It's definitely been a memorable year...one full of many professional and personal milestones. I thank each and every one of you for sitting down with Simply Sarah Style to catch up on inspiration and life happenings. So here's the list...the most popular posts of 2015:

#10

Our gender reveal party

#9

A Betsy Ross American flag-themed bridal shower

#8

A quick and easy yard sale makeover with Krylon

#7

How I stumbled upon $40 chairs at Ballard Designs

#6

The Wedding Series: Part III

Access more of the wedding series: Part I, Part II, Part IV, Part IV and Part VI.

#5

This "My Kentucky Tee" can be your Kentucky tee 

#4

My 12 days of Christmas Home Tour

#3

Holiday gift giving with Hallmark Gold Crown

#2

One dresser: 3 different ways (Another Bargains & Buyouts score)

I'm excited to share that this Dwell Studio dresser will be making an appearance in Baby P.'s nursery! 

("What I didn't show you in my last Bargains & Buyouts post" and "Another reason to love Bargains & Buyouts" were also popular.)

#1

Breakfast entertaining made easy with Yoplait Plenti

Thank you for your continued support of Simply Sarah Style. Here's to 2016!

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Reflecting and remembering those most dear with the Just Simply L collection

It's the perfect time to reflect and remember those who have brought joy to our lives this year.  As one gifty girl, I love to buy gifts for everyone special to me. But really, is that what's truly important? Perhaps it is as simple as a heartwarming card and joyful celebrations. 

I was delighted when I discovered this handcrafted card collection from Just Simply L, a party and stationery studio. As a pretty paper junkie, I had a hard time picking my favorites from this collection. Not only does Lourdes, the designer, carry a holiday selection, she also has a variety of cards for every day occasions. I think I need one of each!

Here are some of my favorites:

For a special occasion

For someone special

For the newly wedded couple

The perfect thank you

Which do you love? Find this selection and more via the Just Simply L Etsy shop.

Merry Christmas, my friends! 

This post was was sponsored by Just Simply L, but all opinions are my own.

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Holiday gift giving with Hallmark Gold Crown

As many of you know, I'm a gift-giving girl. It's in my blood (and even in my logo). I grew up in a family that celebrates all occasions, even going beyond what's expected during the typical holiday season. No matter what the budget or occasion, my family - especially my mom - always knows how to make milestones extra special or show appreciation through the use of a gift.

Now here's a great idea straight from my mom...She keeps a "surprise box" in the closet which houses items she collects throughout the year that can serve as great gifts, say for the party hostess, a teacher or a coach, a friend who's having a bad week, etc. She always has a full stock of giftable goodies ready to go.

Like I said, it's in my blood. I'm naturally a gift-giver. I love to buy people gifts...and the holiday season is no exception. During the holidays, I want to buy for everyone. It's the perfect time to show people how much you value them. Whether you plan to spend $5 or $50, it's the thought associated with the token of appreciation that matters.

Wondering where to find some of the best goodies for the holiday season? I've found that Hallmark Gold Crown stores always offer products suited for a wide variety of audiences. No matter who you are shopping for, you can find the perfect little surprise at your local Hallmark.

I recently visited Hallmark's holiday section to explore quick and easy gift options for the Christmas season. I personally love to take store bought finds and wrap them up in a show-stopping manner. Honestly, if I could be a professional gift-wrapper and make a decent living, I would totally sign-up. (Hey, Hallmark - If you decided to add professional wrappers to your employee lineup, shoot me an email and I'll be there for the interview!)

Today, I'm excited to share three gift ideas I discovered at the Hallmark store in the Crestview Hills Town Center. I picked up the following items because I knew they're so versatile and would work for any female on my to-buy for list. In fact, they would be perfect for a "surprise box!"

• Crafters & Co. mistletoe scented hand soap
• Crafters & Co. handcrafted peppermint bark
• Hallmark holiday card assortment

Additionally, I picked up the following items to polish off the packages:

• Tie-on sparkly reindeer gift tags
• Self-adhesive polka dot bows

To wrap these, I went with my go-to technique: bag and bow.

Bagging and bowing is my solution for making any item more festive in the matter of minutes. Seriously, just keep some cellophane wrap or bags, plus ribbon and gift tags, on hand and you'll always be able to pull together a gorgeous gift in no time.

Ready to see how it's done? I put my bag and bow philosophy to use when wrapping the three new gifts I picked up at Hallmark.

And we're done!

Making store bought gifts look even more special is easy and can be done in minutes.

Have you stopped by Hallmark lately? What finds have you recently discovered there? I especially have my eye on more handcrafted items in their Crafters & Co. line.

A special thanks to Hallmark for sponsoring this post!

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Gifting back: A special invitation for you

Please note: Due to the overwhelming interest in this event, we have extended the shopping time. Instead of 6 to 8 pm, please join us from 5:30 to 8:30 pm.

I am delighted to host a gifting back event in partnership with Fort Thomas Central, a charming gift boutique located in the heart of Fort Thomas. I'm a big fan of shopping local and have supported Fort Thomas Central since it's opening a few years ago. This shop offers a variety of designer goods as well as unique pieces from local artisans.

I invite you to join me in shopping for a great cause. Not only will you enjoy 10% off your purchase, light bites and cocktails, you'll also be supporting a good cause. On this evening, 10% of sales will benefit the LifeCenter Organ Donor Network.

You see, organ donation is a cause close to my heart. When I was a junior in college, I lost my dad in a car accident. Even though it will be 11 years this December, I still remember that day so vividly.

It was the Monday of finals week. I started my day with an exam in development psychology. I was actually being tested on all the ways people cope with death and end-of-life decisions. All did I know, that at the exact moment I was taking a test about coping with death, my father was in a horrific car accident.

I went about my day and eventually headed home from campus to eat dinner before heading to cheer practice. It was during that short time I was at home that I received a phone call from my mom that my dad had been in a car accident on a snowy highway and did not make it.

There are no words to describe the feelings I experienced that moment. I was in disbelief. I couldn't believe that my dad started his day getting ready for work and heading out for his commute...just like he did every day. None of us would have ever guessed what that Monday held for him. That morning, the slick conditions on the highway led to a multi-car pileup. My dad was the only one who didn't make it.

Despite the heartache that came with this traumatic, unexpected loss, we eventually found a reason to smile. My dad was a donor and was able to give an invaluable gift to others. Months later, we found ourselves sitting at a family recognition ceremony that celebrated the lives of all local donors. Knowing that my dad was able to pass on crucial elements to people in need gave us comfort in our time of grief.

From my point of view, signing up to be an organ donor is a no-brainer. It's not like you're going to need all of your parts when you pass. Why not pass on the gift of life?

So I ask you to come join me for a festive evening in support of a good cause - raising money for the LifeCenter Organ Donor Network.

Fort Thomas Central Gift Boutique

3 N. Fort Thomas Avenue | Fort Thomas, KY 

Thursday, December 3, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

If you are a local reader and would like to join us for this event, please share a comment below. Just want to make sure I have enough goodies for all of our guests.

Here's to shopping for a good cause and holding your loved ones close!

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A housewarming gift for my SIL

My sister-in-law Laura recently moved into her very own apartment. Of course, I can't wait to help her decorate, but in the meantime, I thought I would send over a little pack of goodies to make the place feel a little more homey.

I threw in some of my favorite items that can quickly add personality and spunk to a space:

• Inspirational art for this ambitious girl 
• Polka dot straws (for decoration or entertaining)
• A signature scent
• The "L" to make her mark
• Some Kentucky pride

My best gift basket advice: tinsel goes a long way in making things look festive. Buy tinsel by the bag at the dollar store and go to town! I always have some stashed away in my wrapping closet.

I must admit the Kentucky "y'all" towel I picked up from the City Flea was my favorite find for this basket.

We're also big supporters of hand soap from Bath & Body Works. My husband and I get caught up in all of the scents. For this occasion, I opted for a universal scent, instead of a seasonal one. I figured Laura could use it right away or stash it for later.

I love pulling together little surprises like this, because, "Who doesn't love unexpected goodies?"

What are your favorite treats to include in a housewarming gift?

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Custom Illustrations: The Perfect Gift

I take pride and delight in finding the perfect gift, and am happy to share that I found one unique concept that everyone will love!

I discovered an artist named Glessy on Fiverr who will create a custom caricature based on the photo you send her. I first collaborated with her when planning my husband's 30th birthday party. She took his headshot and made it into a caricature that looked just like him.

I passed the caricature file along to my stationery designer, Christina Reinersman, who incorporated it into a one-of-a-kind "BenFest" logo. I was so happy with how this invitation turned out! We even carried this caricature throughout every aspect of the party. I'm talking "Ben" heads on a stick as photo props, BenFest stickers, BenFest posters and "Did you know?" BenFest fact sheets. His head was literally everywhere. (You can see more BenFest photos here.)

Using this artist was the best decision I made when planning Ben's party. The illustration was truly memorable! I also must give props to Christina who turned Ben's head into an exceptional logo that inspired all the print materials.

Since BenFest, I have used this Fiverr artist for a couple other custom gifts. Here's one she did of my mom and me...

 And one she did of us with Ben's parents and siblings...

I had the last two illustrations printed on card stock at Staples and then framed them in white frames with white mats for a polished look.

Overall, I could not be more thrilled with Glessy's work. This girl has some serious talent! Wanting your own custom caricature? You can get more details on her work here.

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A Look Back on 2014

It's been an exciting year for me personally and Simply Sarah Style. This year, Ben and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary, sold a condo and bought a house. We both turned 30. Talk about some major life changes.

In the midst of all these events, some awesome opportunities came through Simply Sarah Style. I completed more decorating projects, was hired as a personal shopper and started partnering with more brands to share the word about products I love.

To wrap up 2014, I thought I would take a look back at the most popular posts this year:

#7 A Rustic Chic Dining Room

This was Part 1 of a series. You might also want to check out Part 2 and Part 3 too.

#6 My Top 5 Tips for Saving Money at Target

#5 Q&A with Spoonful of Sugar Cookies Baker Katy Clifton

#4 An Inside Look at BenFest

#3 Super Hero Birthday Party Inspiration

#2 Sparking a Connection with Lindt HELLO Chocolate

#1 Bargains & Buyouts: Cincinnati's Best Kept Secret

Thanks for your continued support of Simply Sarah Style. Here's to 2015!

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Simply Sarah Shopping at Your Service

I adore the art of gift-giving. Finding the perfect present and then packaging it in a way that will delight the recipient makes me so happy. This season, I had the pleasure of purchasing family gifts for a friend who lives out of town and couldn't make it home for Christmas. Instead of purchasing and shipping, she hired me to handle the concepts, shopping, wrapping and delivery.

Here's how they turned out:

Gift #1

"Sending Love to My Old Kentucky Home"

This basket included:

• Kentucky Blue Wine from Elk Creek
• Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale 
• Woodford Reserve Bourbon Balls
• University of Kentucky Tea Towel
• My Old Kentucky Home Koozie & Artwork from The Pink House Press
• Kentucky-shaped Cutting Board
• Kentucky-shaped Cookie Cutter

Gift #2 & #3

"Cuddle Kits"

These baskets included: 

• Classic Christmas Movies
• The Big One Blanket (The softest and biggest throw blanket you will ever find!)
• Monogrammed Serving Trays
• Christmas Coco-Cola Bottles
• Striped Straws
• LaRosa's Gift Cards
• Winter Candles from Bath & Body Works

I had a blast working with my friend to curate a collection of goodies that would excite her family this year! 

Looking to partner with a gifting guru for your next special occasion? 

Email me at sarah@simplysarahstyle.com.

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Merry Christmas!

I discovered the most perfect gift idea and had to share it with you! I stumbled upon custom home ornaments on Facebook. I ordered one and thought it would be the perfect way to celebrate our new home.

All you have to do is send in a picture and Tricia Spillman illustrates a masterpiece on an ornament. I am so impressed with her talent. If you're interested in ordering an ornament for next year, email me and I'll share her information.

Merry Christmas to each of you! I hope you have a wonderful week filled with simple joys, sweet treats and special gatherings! 

{Christmas cards by Tiny Prints}

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