July Favorites ~ 2026

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Hello Friends,

I’m back from my fourth work trip, and it was hot! I’m truly enjoying this season of my life. Traveling so much has given me a new perspective on life and on people.

Recently, while sitting on a plane, I found myself reflecting and quietly confessing a few things to myself. One realization stood out: I’ve been craving different kinds of relationships and experiences.

I want to be around people who inspire me—people who are well-traveled, kind, spiritually grounded, confident, and generous with their knowledge, stories, and experiences. I want to share beautiful conversations, meaningful moments, and unforgettable places with people who appreciate the richness of life.

I’m not entirely sure why this desire has grown so strong, but I know it’s real. Maybe travel has expanded my perspective, or maybe I’m simply evolving. Whatever the reason, I’m grateful for this new season and excited to see where it leads.

Now on to things I have enjoyed the month of July:

photo credits: Mrs. Shockley 

First up is a little vanity luxury. I recently ordered the Iris Pressed Glass Vase from Anthropologie, and it has become the perfect home for my makeup brushes. It looks absolutely beautiful on my bathroom vanity and instantly elevates the space with a touch of elegance. The vase is available in three different styles, and each one is just as lovely as the next. If you’re looking to add a little beauty to your vanity, I highly recommend collecting all three.

Next up is a new perfume I’ve been enjoying from Caudalie, the same company that created the gorgeous facial mist I absolutely love. This fragrance features notes of raspberry grape, neroli, and patchouli, creating a scent that is light, fresh, floral, and subtly fruity. It’s the perfect fragrance for spring and summer—effortlessly elegant and ideal for everyday wear.

I can’t believe I’m still finding peonies at my local grocery store. These blooms were incredibly fragrant and opened into the most beautiful, full blossoms. Having them in my office throughout the week was such a simple luxury and brought so much joy to my workspace.

Another delightful surprise was the arrival of a new book on the interiors of Bunny Mellon. Written by Charlotte Moss and beautifully illustrated by Snowy Campbell, it is both charming and whimsical. The pages are filled with timeless inspiration, making it a wonderful addition to my growing collection of design books.

Next is a little scarf elegance. I decided to wear my chinoiserie scarf with a coordinating scarf tie, draped gracefully over my shoulders, to the office. The combination felt effortlessly elegant, and I received so many lovely compliments throughout the day. It’s amazing how a simple accessory can elevate an entire outfit.

Then another exciting package arrived! I decided to order the Garden Bag from Holland Cooper, and it is every bit as charming as I had hoped. I adore the delicate frilled edge and the fresh green-and-white color palette. It’s the perfect blend of timeless style and countryside charm, and I know it will be a beautiful companion for the greenhouse seasons ahead.

Then I stumbled upon this glorious find! I’ve been wanting a pair of the Lily of the Valley Dior teacups for quite some time, but they are so expensive. A single teacup costs $240! I found a seller on eBay offering a set of two for just $288, and I even managed to negotiate an even better price by making an offer.

This set is absolutely beautiful and the epitome of elegance. My family and I will be heading to New York soon, and I’ve already scheduled an afternoon tea at the Lowell Hotel. I’ll be sure to share all about the experience once we return!

Aside from my David Austin roses, I feel like this is my greatest gardening accomplishment! I finally have sweet peas growing in my raised beds, and I can hardly believe it. After almost two years of waiting, I got my first blooms this season.

I don’t have many flowers yet, but they are so fragrant and beautiful that I wish I could keep them forever. Seeing them bloom after all this time has made the wait completely worthwhile. I am so proud!

Okay, I know I’m on a teacup kick! I recently purchased another teacup and saucer that has been on my wishlist for quite some time: the Ginori 1735 mug and saucer.

Once again, these pieces are certainly an investment, but they are crafted from fine porcelain and are truly works of art. The craftsmanship and timeless design make them feel just as much like collectibles as they are functional pieces for enjoying a cup of tea.

And lastly, the Manor Candle by Nabela Noor restocked last week—and sold out again! Thankfully, I was able to purchase it this time in the White Musk scent, and I couldn’t love it more.

This candle is the epitome of elegance. From its beautiful design to its luxurious fragrance, it feels like such a special addition to my home. In my opinion, it is absolutely worth the price. If you’ve been hoping to get one, keep your eyes peeled for the next restock—they don’t stay in stock for long!

I hope you found inspiration in this month’s finds! I hope to share some new elegant adventures from our NYC trip soon. 

The Quiet Luxury of Separate Bathrooms

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Life has been moving at full speed lately. Next week, I’ll be heading out on my fourth work trip of the year, with one more scheduled for the end of August. Between work, travel, and everything else on my calendar, it’s safe to say I have a lot going on.

I’ve also recently started an exciting new chapter in my life. I was honored to be elected President-Elect for the Guild! When the results came in, I was genuinely shocked and honestly didn’t expect to win. It is such an incredible honor, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity.

Over the next year, I’ll be working closely with our newly elected President, learning the role and shadowing her before officially stepping into the position of President in June 2027. I’ll also be joining the Eskenazi Board and President’s Table, where I’ll have the opportunity to meet new faces, collaborate with other leaders, and take on new responsibilities.

Before anyone asks—no, I’m not leaving my current job! This is simply an exciting new opportunity that allows me to grow both personally and professionally. It’s an added chapter in my life, and one I truly appreciate.

Now, enough about me! Let’s talk about another dream of mine—having separate bathrooms someday. It may sound like a small luxury, but I think having separate spaces can make a world of difference in creating a more functional, peaceful home. Today, I’m sharing why this feature has earned a spot on my dream home wish list.

We often think that love means sharing everything. Yet the most enduring relationships are rarely those in which every moment and every habit is on display. There is something quietly elegant about preserving a little space that belongs only to oneself. A separate bathroom is more than a luxury; it is an acknowledgment that individuality has a place within togetherness.

 

photo via Pinterest

 

A few years ago, I started hearing about married couples having separate bathrooms. At first, I didn’t think it was actually a thing—but it turns out it is! I even mentioned the idea to my husband about two years ago.

What really made me appreciate the concept was noticing the difference in my own mornings. On the days when my husband has already left for work, I naturally settle into a slower, more intentional routine. I’ll listen to one of my favorite sermons, light a candle, and ease into the day with a calm, peaceful mindset. It’s become a quiet form of self-care that helps me feel grounded before the busyness begins.

When we’re both getting ready at the same time, though, my mornings look very different. We inevitably start talking about our schedules, errands, or other things that could easily wait until later. Before I know it, my attention has shifted, and instead of enjoying a peaceful start to the day, I feel rushed, distracted, and more anxious.

That realization made me understand why separate bathrooms appeal to so many couples. It’s not about wanting distance from one another—it’s about creating space for each person to begin the day in the way that helps them feel their best.

What I have learned is…. 

  • Privacy is not distance. Having your own bathroom doesn’t create emotional separation. It allows each person to begin and end the day without intrusion.
  • Mystery has value. Part of attraction is recognizing that another person remains, in some ways, their own individual. We don’t need to witness every morning routine to be deeply connected.
  • Elegance respects boundaries. A well-designed home considers not only how people gather but also how they retreat.
  • Luxury is about peace. Separate bathrooms reduce small daily frustrations and create moments of calm, making shared time more enjoyable.

 

photo via Pinterest

 

I still remember my mornings in my early twenties when I lived in my apartment. I’d light a few candles, turn on one of my favorite sermons, and relax in a bubble bath before starting my day. Looking back, those quiet mornings were such a gift, and I find myself missing them now.

I also love the idea of creating a bathroom that reflects my personal style. I can picture a beautiful vintage chair tucked into the corner, antique vessels displayed on the countertop, soft lighting, and, of course, a favorite candle burning. It would feel less like just another room in the house and more like a peaceful retreat.

For me, a separate bathroom isn’t about creating distance in a marriage. It’s about creating peace. It’s about having a space where I can begin each morning feeling calm, centered, and ready for whatever the day brings. And when my day begins in peace, I find I have so much more of myself to give to the people I love.

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you have separate bathrooms, or is it something you would consider in your dream home? Let me know in the comments below.

 

 

 

A Dress Code at Home

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Hello Everyone,

I hope you all enjoyed your holiday! We kept things simple this year by having dinner with our kids and spending the evening watching movies. It was a relaxing way to celebrate together.

There are so many exciting things I am preparing for right now, and I look forward to sharing an update with you very soon.

I am still reading Living Beautifully Together by Alexandra Stoddard, and I recently came across a sentence that really made me stop and think. She writes, “A man who wanders around the house in only his underdrawers insults his wife and children.”

That quote immediately got me thinking about the way we dress at home. We’ve discussed this topic on the blog before, so it isn’t a new conversation, but it is one that I believe is always worth revisiting.

The way we present ourselves within our own homes says something about the respect we have for ourselves and for those we love. While comfort certainly has its place, there is also value in dressing with a sense of care and dignity, even when no one outside the family will see us. Home is where our habits are formed, and the atmosphere we create begins with the small, everyday choices we make.

 

photo credit: Pinterest

 

I simply adore this vintage photograph of a mother and daughter in their nightwear. I have been searching for a gown like this for quite some time now, as there is something so graceful and timeless about it.

Making sure I have lovely, modest gowns to wear to bed has always been a priority for me. Even when I lived alone in my apartment at just twenty years old, I wore vintage-style gowns around my home. They made everyday life feel a little more beautiful and always brought a smile to my face.

I have long believed that what we wear at home influences how we feel. Slipping into a pretty gown at the end of the day transforms an ordinary evening into something a bit more special, reminding me that elegance is not reserved for public occasions—it begins within the walls of our own homes.

 

photo credit: Pinterest

 

Another inspiring photograph! This image features Jasmine Guy from the beloved 1980s television show A Different World. I have always admired the effortless elegance portrayed in many older television shows. Even in quiet moments at home, the women were often dressed in beautiful robes or flowing gowns that reflected a sense of grace and self-respect.

I know television isn’t always an accurate reflection of everyday life, but these images remind me that there is beauty in creating a lovely home environment and in dressing with intention, even when no one else is around. There is something undeniably uplifting about slipping into a beautiful nightgown at the end of the day. It transforms an ordinary evening into a peaceful ritual and reminds us that elegance begins at home.

What is your dress code at home?

 

Keep Your Life Simple

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Good Morning Everyone!

Are you enjoying the heat yet? It has certainly felt like a sauna here in Indy this week—goodness gracious! I’ve been spending most of my time indoors, doing my best to stay cool.

On a brighter note, my David Austin roses are blooming again! They are absolutely beautiful, and I can’t believe I’m getting a second round of blooms. It’s such a lovely surprise.

My newsletter went out this week, and I hope you all received it. I also hope you find a little inspiration in this month’s Velvet Morning feature and suggestions.

 

photo credit: Tallwood Country House 

 

 

I am still reading Alexandra’s book Living Beautifully Together. In a recent chapter, she shared 20 Points to Remember and discussed how to keep life simple. We may already know many of these ideas, but sometimes a gentle reminder is exactly what brings us back to living a beautiful life.

The first point is to make dates with yourself. Plan ahead and mark your calendar, blocking out time to be alone. I have made it my mission to do this every month. It’s all part of planning for beauty.

Reward yourself when you accomplish a goal. After working hard under the pressure of a deadline, treat yourself to dinner at your favorite restaurant or schedule a relaxing massage. You’re more likely to face challenges with equanimity when you have a reward waiting on the other side.

Work smarter, not harder. Tackle your most difficult tasks during the part of the day when you feel the most refreshed. Use the times when your creative energy is lower to putter, file, organize, or prepare for future projects. And don’t be afraid to quit while you’re ahead—you can always come back refreshed.

Go to bed one hour earlier. (I think we’re all working on this one!) Waking up an hour before you have to, to enjoy the quiet of the morning, gives you a head start on the day. That one peaceful hour spent alone can be worth far more than three hours later in the day, fractured by interruptions.

 

photo credit: Pinterest 

 

 

Be in training for life. Exercise makes you feel better and gives you energy. Dance, jog, walk, play a sport, or swim. Move every part of your body that can move—regularly. And treat your brain as you would a muscle; it needs exercise, too.

Create a positive image of the day. Research continues to show that optimists handle stress better than pessimists. We need to develop the habit of being kind to ourselves so those actions become our own system of checks and balances for the mind-body connection.

Hold high expectations for your day. Cultivate your vitality and persevere. The effort you make today will benefit you tomorrow. By stretching yourself and giving your best each day, you’ll surprise yourself with how much you can accomplish. Take risks in new areas. Success is achieved through a series of thoughtful, creative steps, guided by a commitment to excellence. Today is going to be your day.

Lastly, don’t try to have it all. Define what you truly want—what you value most—and let your actions reflect those priorities. Enjoy the process of all your activities, and make joy a high priority. Learn how much you can realistically handle, then move forward with confidence. When you’re working toward your personal goals, you often handle stress more gracefully because you’re focused on what truly matters. Take time throughout your day to pause and appreciate the wonder and beauty of life.

I hope these reminders from Alexandra have inspired you today. Sometimes we don’t need to learn something new—we simply need to be reminded of what we already know. May you find time for yourself, care for your body and mind, and embrace the beauty that’s waiting in each day.

 

 

 

June Favorites ~ 2026

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Good Morning Friends,

We have reached the halfway point of the year, and it hardly seems possible. June is nearly behind us, and I find myself wondering where the days have gone. The first half of the year has been full, with three work trips already completed and a fourth on the calendar for July.

Through the busyness, I have remained committed to the things that ground me. I am still attending Pilates classes, still reflecting on my word of the year, and still intentionally planning for beauty in my everyday life.

One of my greatest joys has been watching my raised beds come to life. This season, I added peonies, delphiniums, hydrangeas, and tulips, each bringing its own charm to the garden. And after much anticipation, I have one sweet pea beginning to bloom. It is a small reminder that beauty often unfolds slowly, rewarding those who are willing to wait and tend with care.

 

photo credits: Mrs. Shockley 

 

One of my favorite monthly traditions is reflecting on the little things that have brought joy to my days. Throughout June, I discovered several new favorites, including YouTube channels that inspired me, songs that became the soundtrack to the season, beautiful accessories, delicious desserts, and a refreshing spring drink. These small pleasures have added a touch of beauty to everyday life, and I am delighted to share them with you.

 

 

During one of my recent work trips, a colleague ordered a drink that immediately caught my attention. It was a simple combination of sparkling water, fresh lemon, lime, and mint. Intrigued, I ordered one for myself, and what a delightful discovery it was! Light, refreshing, and wonderfully crisp, it quickly became a favorite.

Since returning home, I have stocked my refrigerator with sparkling water and have kept lemons, limes, and fresh mint on hand so I can recreate it. I have especially enjoyed sipping this refreshing beverage alongside dinner on warm summer evenings. Sometimes the simplest pleasures are the most enjoyable.

Later in the month, I attended a staff luncheon with my attorney and team at the lovely The Capital Grille. I ordered the chicken breast entrée, which was excellent, but it was dessert that truly stole the show. I selected the sweet and savory apple tart, and it was absolutely divine. The perfect balance of flavors and textures made it a memorable ending to the meal. In fact, I am still thinking about it weeks later—a sure sign of a truly exceptional dessert.

 

 

Next up is a gorgeous leaf brooch I discovered on Etsy, paired with a stunning Dior pouch from Poshmark. The brooch is wonderfully oversized, making a true statement piece, and features three pins on the back for secure styling. I recently shared a reel featuring this beauty on my Instagram account, and it has quickly become a favorite. The Dior pouch is equally enchanting, with its garden-inspired design creating a dreamy, elegant combination that feels both timeless and unique. I ordered a second one just in case. 

 

 

A touch of beauty can transform even the simplest spaces, and this lush bouquet of faux peonies does exactly that. I arranged in a vintage-inspired crystal vase, the creamy ivory blooms bring softness, romance, and timeless elegance to my vanity space in my bathroom. Their realistic petals and full, abundant form create the look of freshly gathered garden flowers. I found them in my local garden center recently. 

Now this was a great find! This delicate tulip bag charm in the prettiest shade of pale blue was such a wonderful summer find. I also have it in pink, and ivory. The charming floral accent adds a whimsical touch to my handbags, proving that the smallest details often make the most beautiful statement.

 

 

It was time to refresh my collection of home fragrances, and I was thrilled to finally add the Manor Candle in Lemon Loaf by Nabela Noor to my home. I have mentioned her candles before, but this one exceeded every expectation. Not only does it fill the room with the most delicious, comforting scent, but the vessel itself is absolutely stunning. It is truly a beautiful piece of décor in its own right. I will be sharing an unboxing on my Instagram account and possibly on YouTube as well, because this candle deserves a closer look.

Later this month, after a lunch meeting, I decided to make a stop at Williams Sonoma and discovered another treasure. Their Famille Rose candle in the Lush Jasmine fragrance immediately captured my attention. The scent is exquisite—fresh, elegant, and beautifully layered—but it was the gorgeous ginger jar-inspired vessel that completely won me over. With its timeless design and delicate details, it felt like the perfect addition to my home for the season. Some pieces are simply too beautiful to leave behind, and this was certainly one of them.

The final addition to my favorites this month is a beautiful piece of classical music that has quickly become part of my daily routine. Titled Marianelli: Liz on Top of the World, it is featured on the soundtrack of Pride & Prejudice and captures a sense of joy, hope, and quiet elegance in just a few short minutes. Though the composition is brief, it is remarkably moving and leaves a lasting impression. Its uplifting melody now serves as my morning alarm, offering a gentle and inspiring start to each day. There is something wonderfully serene about waking up to music that feels both timeless and enchanting.

I hope you enjoyed this month’s collection of favorites. I shared the beautiful pieces, fragrances, and moments that made June so special. Until next time, may you continue to find beauty, elegance, and joy in the everyday.

 

  • affiliate links attached. 

 

 

Travel with Elegance

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Good Morning Everyone,

Thank you again to those of you who have taken the time to respond to the survey. Your feedback truly helps me, and it lets me know who is reading the blog and following along on this journey.

At times, social media can feel like a lot of effort with little return, so hearing from those of you who are engaged and finding value in my content means more than you know.

I received a lot of views on my recent Instagram Reel featuring my travel cleaning kit. Since there was so much interest, I thought I would use this week’s post to share more about what I use and provide links to my favorite items so they’re easy to find.

I did want to share these thoughts on travel: 

Travel with Elegance

Travel is more than reaching a destination — it is an experience, a reflection of style, grace, and the art of living beautifully. In a fast-moving world filled with rushed itineraries and crowded schedules, traveling with elegance means embracing the journey with sophistication, comfort, and intention.

The Essence of Elegant Travel

Elegant travel is not defined by luxury alone. It is about thoughtful choices, timeless style, and creating meaningful moments wherever you go. From the way you pack your suitcase to how you immerse yourself in a new culture, elegance lies in simplicity, confidence, and attention to detail.

An elegant traveler values quality over quantity. Instead of rushing through endless attractions, they savor experiences — a quiet sunrise over the ocean, a candlelit dinner in a hidden café, or a peaceful walk-through historic streets.

Packing with Purpose

True elegance begins before the journey starts. Packing smartly and minimally creates a stress-free travel experience. For me that begins with my travel cleaning kit. Now I was inspired by Operation Nikki on Instagram during the pandemic to start packing a travel cleaning kit. 

 

 

Here is a quick snapshot of mine from the video. In my travel cleaning kit I have the following:

 

Dressing for Elegant Travel:

For me I still like to look like I am headed to the office while traveling. It still amazes me how people dress in the airports. I love to wear a light dress, cardigan or wrap, pearls, travel shoes, my favorite tote at the moment and my carry-on. A carefully curated wardrobe allows you to move effortlessly from airport lounges to city explorations and evening gatherings. Remember, elegance is often found in understated simplicity.

This is an example of what I would wear to travel in. The only thing that would be different would be my shoes. I am wearing these right now. They work well with most of my dresses and are super comfy. 

 

 

Grace in Every Journey

Elegant travelers carry themselves with kindness and respect. They embrace cultural differences, practice patience, and remain open to learning. Whether navigating a busy airport or exploring a large city, grace and humility leave lasting impressions. I recently ran into a man from London and a woman from Germany during my last trip. I asked them about their countries and what they loved most about traveling. Their shared everything and also asked me questions about America. I love those kinds of conversations. They educate you and open your eyes to a bigger world. 

Caring for Yourself While Traveling

In my recent trips I have learned that I get really dry during these travel times and shared on a reel this week what I was adding to my items. 

Travel with elegance is about discovering the world while remaining connected to yourself. It is about moving through life with curiosity, confidence, and appreciation for beauty in all its forms.

Final Thoughts

In the end, elegant travel is a mindset. It is choosing calm over chaos, quality over excess, and experiences over possessions. Whether you are boarding a plane to a distant country or taking a weekend escape nearby, travel beautifully, travel mindfully, and most importantly — travel with elegance.

 

Last few items that I cannot travel without:

 

affiliate links attached 

Gucci Flora ~ A Grace Kelly Story

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Hello Friends,

Here we are in June already—we’re officially six months into the year! Let that sink in for a moment.

Lately, I feel like I’ve been playing catch-up, but that’s okay. I have a work trip coming up this month, and thankfully I feel much more prepared than I did last month. I’ll also be sharing some travel essentials reels here soon, so stay tuned for those.

As for today’s post… sigh.

This item has been on my wish list since 2014. I vividly remember reading a post over 10 years ago featuring influencer Rosie at the Chelsea Flower Show in the UK, where she visited the Gucci floral display. The moment I saw that scarf, I was completely smitten.

From that day on, I knew I had to have it. Well, recently I finally gave in and decided to buy it. Of course, I turned to Poshmark. I didn’t mind purchasing a gently used one—especially when I could get it for nearly half the original price!

 

photo credit: Mrs. Shockley 

 

I was so excited when my new scarf arrived! Poshmark and eBay are great places to find these pieces at much more affordable prices. My scarf looks very similar to this one, and when it arrived, I just sat there staring at it. It was every bit as beautiful as I had imagined all those years ago.

Then the hunt began for the tote.

I first saw the Gucci Flora tote a few years ago. It was released in 2019, and I immediately knew it was something I wanted to own someday. Eventually, I found one at a great price on Poshmark and added it to my “watch” list. For more than six months, I kept an eye on it as the seller gradually lowered the price. It went from $800 all the way down to $380!

Looking back, I probably should have bought it then, but I still wasn’t completely sure.

Then one evening, while scrolling through YouTube, a video titled “20 Items Grace Kelly Loved That You Can Still Buy Today” appeared in my feed. I clicked on it, and the eighth item mentioned completely stopped me in my tracks.

It was the story behind the Gucci Flora print.

As I watched, I learned about the history of the iconic design and its connection to Grace Kelly. Suddenly, my admiration for the scarf and tote wasn’t just about the beautiful floral pattern—it was about the legacy and story behind it. From that moment on, I knew I had to find the tote.

 

 

The story goes that Grace Kelly walked into the Gucci store in Milan in 1966 looking for a silk scarf. Rodolfo Gucci happened to be in the store that day and knew this wasn’t an occasion to simply hand her something off the shelf. Instead, he asked his friend and artist, Vittorio Accornero, to create something special just for her.

That request led to the creation of the now-iconic Flora print.

The moment I heard that story, everything clicked. I knew there was a reason I had been so drawn to this print all those years ago. For more than 12 years, I admired it without knowing its history, and now I love it even more.

After watching that video, I went back to the seller and submitted another offer on the tote. To my surprise, it was accepted!

I’ve only had my tote for about a month, but it turns heads everywhere I carry it. It is truly stunning, and I love sharing the history of the Flora print with anyone willing to listen. Knowing the story behind it makes it feel even more special.

I hope you enjoyed this little bit of fashion history. If you have a few minutes, be sure to watch the video. Lately, I’ve also been on the hunt for Grace Kelly’s signature fragrance, Fleurissimo by Creed. I’ve been trying to find a sample but haven’t had any luck yet.

If you watch the video, let me know in the comments—which item from Grace Kelly’s list is your favorite?

 

 

Affiliate links attached.