The "ALEX" T-Shirt

I'm SO, so happy to share the "ALEX T-shirt" with you today! It's no ordinary shirt. This shirt has POWER! It has power to help end sex trafficking of women and children. Elegantees and I have partnered to design a t-shirt in navy and white with a silk pocket and extra length (I'm always in need of that) that every woman would enjoy wearing all year round. We really wanted the design to be a hit among all women because with your purchase of the "ALEX T-shirt" your money goes to empowering women in Napal to create these shirts and other pieces through education and a safe haven from the terrible conditions that they once knew as a slave. Please read more about Elegantees fight against trafficking, and check out their shop for other ways you can support them. You can get FREE shipping today by using the code 'ALEX.' Now let's talk about how I styled my t-shirt...

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1| With a jean jacket. I love denim on denim. It's such a cool combination and easy to wear, especially with a t-shirt underneath.

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2| Sleeves rolled up. I like rolling up my sleeves for my of a tomboy look sometimes. Even rolling sleeves to the point they are cap sleeves is cool in my book, but if your arms are an area you get self-conscious you might not want to try this.

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3| Sleeves down and tied at the waist. As a lady with a baby bump, this is a great way to show it off and not have the extra fabric sticking out. If I didn't have a bump though the shirt would be long enough for a tunic and I could wear skinny jeans, leggings and even faux leather pants with this shirt.

When I look at my daughter I pray that she would become a woman that is treated with respect and love that we all deserve. The thought of women and children in this world being used as slaves and objects and treated as nothing kills me inside. Please go support Elegantees! 

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Photos by Amy Frances Photography

30 Thriving Challenge Completed

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Three months ago I decided I was tired of just talking about getting into shape. Turning 30 was a big wake up call that I had lived a good 20 years out of shape and eating things that were easy rather than good for me. I asked Mountainside Fitness to help me with my challenge, and they gladly gave me a three month trial and a couple sessions with a trainer so that I can learn my way around the gym.

Three months later I still weigh the same 124 pounds, but my BMI has gone from 22% to 20%. I'm toned and fit. I also look forward to the gym every week and miss it when I'm not able to go as often as I would like. Who would have thought I would become a gym rat three months later.

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The biggest excuse I used for not going to the gym was not having enough time and not having someone to watch Elle. Well, the truth was that I wasn't making time for it. There are some gyms out there where I didn't feel comfortable putting Elle in the kids program. I knew I would feel better at a more family friendly gym like Mountainside. Sure enough Elle looks forward to going there every time. I drive 25 minutes each way to go to the gym, but it's worth it.

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I have officially become a Mountainside Fitness member, and I'm looking forward to being there for years to come.

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These photos that you see were created by Liz Evans. She loves celebrating the female form. She wanted to celebrate my accomplishment and my birthday by photographing my body after the challenge. I'm so thankful for these photos. They really help me see the confidence I have gained and the muscle I have gained throughout this process. Go check her out if you're in need of a really encouraging experience.

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My dear friend and talented makeup artist, Stephanie Neiheisel, also wanted to be a part of this special moment. She created a gorgeous navy smokey eye with bronzed skin and a nude lip. LOVE LOVE LOVE. This makeup look is perfect for fall.

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Photos by Liz E. Studio.

Get the look: Dress by Fame & Partners, pencil skirt, ruffled top, leather skirt,bralette

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Winter Nautical Wedding

I had a wonderful opportunity to help style the wardrobe for a bridal shoot for Arizona Foothills Magazine. The project was with a VERY talented group of people, and was photographed by my dear friend Gina Meola. You may remember her work from our architectural bridal shoot that was recently published in Style Me Pretty.

This styled wedding shoot was centered around having a nautical wedding in the winter. You never hear about weddings near the water in the winter time, especially in Arizona. Well, my friends, the water isn't just reserved for the summertime.

With a winter color palette of navy, maroon, white and silver, you can definitely have a beautiful nautical wedding right now!

Check out the Pinterest board that Gina and I put together to get the project off on the right foot. (I seriously can't say enough how great style boards are for visualizing the direction of a project).

Saks Fifth Avenue was SO kind to lend all of the beautiful menswear, shoes and cocktail attire.

We had two looks for the shoot - formal bridal attire and cocktail attire.

Starting with the bridal, Mariee, my favorite bridal boutique in Phoenix, let us use THE perfect wedding dress for this shoot - a Matthew Christopher gown!! The silver bands are perfection!

And umm...Hello, Louboutins?!! I never tire of the red sole, and these shoes make a statement!

For menswear, we went with a classic navy pinstriped suit, white dress shirt and a maroon tie. Nothing fussy and everything timeless.

As for the cocktail reception, I thought a knit sweater would be perfect for nautical vibe. Paired with slacks and great shoes, it's a fresh change from the typical sport coat.

As for our bride, a one-shouldered sparkly cocktail dress was a perfect complement to the menswear - simple and timeless with a touch of glam.

To see more photos of the food, desserts and lovely boat, check out Gina's blog!

Fashion Stylist: Alex of AVE Styles Matthew Christopher Wedding Gown: Mariee Bridal Shoes and Wardrobe: Saks Fifth Avenue Catering: Creative Hands Cuisine Florals and Decor: Encore Creative Sweet Treats: Tammie Coe Cakes Venue Rental: Bella Palazzo Models: Ashley and Brad Richardson Hair and Makeup: Arthur Frederico Stationery: The Paper Place