Browsing Tag

fashion blogger

17 Life Lessons from 2017

Posted on December 31, 2017

17 Life Lessons from 2017

Camel Duster (I’m wearing an extra small for reference) | Black Booties | Faux Leather Leggings (these act as a shape wear and suck everything in! SO good.) Graphic Tee | Faux Fur Leopard Bag

If I’m being honest 2017 was a complete whirlwind and most days I felt like I was drowning. Wading water, at best. Adding Wilder into our family was amazing, but adapting to life as a mom of two under two is trying. Rewarding, amazing, full hearts, full hands, but difficult in every shape of the word. The year is a bit of a blur, but having some help over the holiday season has given me a few moments to reflect. I also turned to my husband and asked him areas he’s thought I have grown or lessons to have an outsider perspective as well. So here goes. 17 life lessons I’ve learned this year:

Patience. It’s truly the key to everything in motherhood. It’s also one of those “easier said than done” type of things. Also, with sleep comes patience. With babies there is serious sleep deprivation so I’ve had to really dig deep sometimes.

2. To have good friends, you must be a good friend. Becoming a mother of two has also limited my amount of “free time.” It’s become hard for me to keep up with all of my friends as well as I want to. I’ve tried my best to surround myself with positive friendships and nurture them in the free moments I do have. The smallest gesture can go such a long way. You really have to nurture your relationships for them to grow. I noticed the ones that I didn’t have drifted off, and the ones I’ve put in effort have flourished. (A 2018 goal is to water those friendships even more.)

3. Family first. It’s just that simple. (This includes friends that we consider family.)

4. Sometimes you have to “give in” to your partner. You can’t win ever argument. Know when to fight your battles and when to wave the white flag.

5. I’ve given up “FOMO.” Yes, I still have it at times, but I’ve come to terms with it. With babies, I can’t be at ever party, I can’t be the last person standing at the party, etc. Also, am I really “missing out” when I’m at home with my kids? I don’t consider it that. Right where I need to be.

6. You get to chose your thoughts. A friend of mine brought this to my attention and I sat with that thought for a long time. If you chose to put your energy into thinking positive thoughts, that will surround you. YOU have the power of your own thoughts. It’s a practice that takes lots of time to perfect, but so very powerful.

7. Put the phone down. I read the book HANDS FREE MAMA. Highly recommend it to everyone. There is ___ version that is geared towards everyone (not just moms.) Given the nature of blogging, I do still spend a lot of time on my phone. However, it’s significantly less. When Trey gets home from work and we are making dinner and playing with the boys we have made a great effort to put our phones down and soak in that precious time.

8. Work smarter, not harder. I feel like I spent a full year trying to figure out the blogging world. I remember when I first had George and he would nap I would just sit on my computer waiting for emails to come in. These days I have so little time that I had to learn this lesson out of necissity. I don’t waste my time with anything that isn’t concentrated and beneficial efforts.

9. Your best is enough. Still struggling with this one still. I truly try every day to be a good wife, good mom, good business woman, good friend, etc. There are days where I fall short on one of them, and there are days where I fall short on all of them. BUT, if I’m truly trying my best to be the best I can on all of those fronts… that’s enough.

10. Teamwork makes the dreamwork. I really feel like Trey and I have become REALLY good “teammates” aka parents. We know how to get in there and each take on tasks to get the job done. No relationship is perfect, but this is something (when it comes to dealing with the boys) that we have learned to excel in.

11. You are who you surround yourself with. Pick wisely!

12. LEARN from these life lessons. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve repeated mistakes. As a mom I’m really trying to be a better example. Learn from the life lessons (even if they come the hard way) and move on.

13. It’s ok to spend time to yourself. (Don’t get me wrong this literally only happens every 2 or 3 weeks to get my nails done..) I always feel guilty, but when I come home happy everyone else is a little happier too.

Here are the things Trey noticed that I’ve gotten better at this year:

14. Communication avoids fights. So many little arguments are actually just miscommunications. My favorite answer to “what’s wrong” has always been “nothing.” It’s easier to just lay it out there and communicate about grievances.

15. Save money. (He might be SLIGHTLY confused on this one.) I have made a much better effort. Not sure if my execution has been perfected just yet.

Reflection is so important because it leads to growth! I’d love to hear everyones lessons or ways they have grown in 2017.

Uncategorized

After Baby “Baby Moon” Trip

Posted on October 26, 2017

Our after baby, “baby moon.”

Trey and I decided to wait until post baby to take our “baby moon” this time around. Since I was pregnant back to back with our sweet babes I wanted to really be able to enjoy our time and have some great wine, dinners, and beautiful scenery.

After college, Trey lived in Vail and worked as a ski instructor. We started visiting Colorado together at least once a year since we met and refer to it as our “happy place.”

For this trip we flew into Denver and had a little lunch rented an SUV and took off for the mountains. There is something about that drive that is just so serene and peaceful. You can start to notice the temperatures dropping and the smell of the pines. My stress levels instantly go down.

We always stop in Breckenridge and grab a crepe from the crepe cart on our way to Vail. It’s also the cutest little town to pop into a few shops.

Typically, we reserve our Colorado trips for ski season, but this time around we decided to go in the fall. I’m so glad that we did! The leaves were absolutely stunning, and we were able to truly relax.

We stayed at the Four Seasons which we also absolutely adore. They pay attention to every little detail. This go around we were able to eat at Flame (their steakhouse.) It did NOT disappoint. It was restaurant week and we were able to try a bit of everything. All delicious. Try the lobster mac and cheese and thank me later.

The bar is also beautiful and looks out into the mountains and pool. One of my favorite views…ever.

Each day we wandered into shops, ate amazing food, and slept in. Truly heavenly for new parents of two littles.

Some things you MUST do in Vail:

1. Grab a drink on the outdoor patio overlooking the lifts at Garfinkel’s. It’s known for it’s fun Apres’ ski, but we loved going for happy hour outside of ski season as well.

2. Drink a mudslide at Bully Ranch.

3. Relax in the courtyard next to Gore Creek. (You can bring a picnic!) Such a sweet little date spot.

4. Enjoy a hot chocolate at Four Seasons next to a fire pit on the balcony. This is truly an experience. It looks beautiful and tastes delicious!

5. Walk around vail village at night.

6. Dine at Sweet Basil.

7. Bowl at bōl. It’s a really impressive and modern take on bowling. Fun for fall trips when skiing isn’t your workout of choice everyday. (Not that bowling is much of a workout, ha! But the goal was to take it REALLY easy this trip.)

8. Relax at the Four Seasons spa.

9. Listen to live music at Red Lion.

10. Late night at Shakedown.

To say we thoroughly enjoyed our baby moon would be an understatement. We came back rested and able to be better (and happier) parents to our sweet boys!

Uncategorized

15 Best Sweaters for Fall

Posted on October 5, 2017

Best Sweaters for Fall

In honor of finding my favorite sweater ever I thought it would be fun to round up my 15 favorite sweaters for fall. I have many of these, and put sizing recommendations under each caption based on my experience.

There are so many ways to style all these sweaters. The great thing about a good knit is that they are typically all versatile enough to dress up or down. Pair them with distressed jeans and sneakers for day, and style them with a leather skirt and an over the knee boot for night.

Feel free to reach out to me via the CONTACT tab if you ever have questions on fit or just want to drop in and say hey! One of the best parts about blogging for me has been the community it creates.

15 BEST SWEATERS FOR FALL

P.S. Be sure to check out the top fall trends that I’ve rounded up HERE.

By Beaus & Ashley

Uncategorized
An Open Letter To My Son
Posted on September 6, 2017

I thought it would be fun to take coordinating mommy and me pictures with G and write an open “letter to my son”…

On Georgie: Lion Shirt | Knit Sneaker | Jeans

On Me: High Rise Jeans | Lion Ring | Kimono (Similar- same brand) | Exact Kimono Sold out- brand is Mimi Chica | Booties

I like to think that this blog will one day be a journal stamped in time that I can go and reminisce on, and even one day my sons can do the same. Not to long ago I saw a fellow blogger say that she writes letters to her children on each birthday. She keeps the letters and will one day let them read them. Such a precious idea that I plan to borrow, but I wanted to go ahead and write one for G now. He’s in such a sweet stage and I want to remember all the little idiosyncrasies he has. So I thought I would share this letter to my son…

Dear Georgie-

There isn’t a thing in this world that makes my heart happier than hearing your sweet giggle. Right now you are a little giggle box, and it’s a sound I want to freeze in time. I know one day it will go away, and that will be the saddest day for me.

We thought you would be so jealous when Wilder came into our family, but you proved us wrong. The innate love and protective nature you have over him might just be the sweetest part about you. You are so proud to show him off to any new visitors; grabbing their hand and dragging them to him. When he cries you bring him a blanket or a pacifier, or even the remote control. Hey, what man doesn’t want control over the remote?!

You love food. (You get that honestly…) Currently you are a bottomless pit. You take your whole hand and shove as much as you can into your little mouth. I’ve yet to find anything you don’t like. Guacamole and meatballs are the current favorite. I wish it were socially acceptable for me to pick up the bowl of guac and lick the bottom like you do. If it were, I would sure join you. You and I are the same like that.

You are curious and adventurous. Your battery operated 4-wheeler can’t go fast enough. You can’t rock your rocking motorcycle (thanks to grandad for that one) hard enough. The look in your eye when you get your mind on something is mischievous, but in the sweetest possible way. With that curious spirit you aren’t afraid to climb up hills, jump off couches, slide down stairs or eat some dirt. However, you are terrified of anything in costume and even some stuffed animals. I secretly love when you are scared of something and run to me and cling to me. I hope I can always be the open arms you run to for protection.

“Da-Da” is by far your favorite word. Ya’ll are the best of friends. He can’t walk out of the room without me hearing the pitter patter of your feet chasing him down. As much as I want you to be a mamas boy, I love watching the special bond ya’ll have. Seeing your daddy like that makes me love him even more!

You’ve never met a puppy you didn’t like. It’s so sweet seeing how big your eyes get when you hear a bark. Then you will point and repeatedly say “pa-pa-pa” and try to find the puppy to snuggle him.

There is never a stranger in your eyes. You wave to every person, car, puppy, and plane that goes by. You might be stingy with real kisses, but you can blow kisses with the best of them. When you do finally give in to giving me a kiss, it is only done for the applause. That sweet little clap is my favorite.

I love watching you grow, but I sure wish you would slow down. Love you sweet boy!

Xo,

MAMA (P.S. You still refuse to say mama, my heart might melt right away when you finally give in and say it…)

9 Comments

By Beaus & Ashley

Uncategorized
Family Photos | Tips on Coordinating Outfits
Posted on August 25, 2017

So excited to share our family photos!

On ME: Dress | Lion Ring |
On TREY: Button Down | Pants |
ON GEORGIE: Jeans |
ON WILDER: Onesie

Real talk… getting myself and the boys ready for this picture and packed in the car to meet Trey and my friend/photographer might have been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. It took hours of planning, packing their diaper bags, sippie cups/snacks, change of clothes, loading the car. Then waiting till G napped to rush in the shower and attempt to do my make up. Then getting each of them ready without the other one crying, etc. Whew. I’m exhausted just thinking about it again.

Once we got there G decided he wanted nothing to do with picture taking that day. Par for the course. He normally is so sweet and cooperative. Not this time! Baby tantrum. He only wanted to play with a puppy he spotted from afar and eat dirt/throw sticks.

My original idea for this post was tips on taking family photos, because I do get asked that a lot. However, given the train wreck that was my children during these, I decided to stick to some tips on coordinating outfits. At least I got that part down!

How to Coordinate Family Photo Outfits (without looking cheesy)

1. Everyone does NOT have to match perfectly. (I know every family has done the all white beach pics, but we don’t need to all match. Keyword here is coordinate.

2. Make sure and choose a fairly neutral backdrop. You don’t want something super bold in the background to steal the show, or compete with anything else in the shot.

3. Don’t be scared of a little print. (However, no ones prints should match exactly.)

4. If you are unsure, stay in the neutral family. (Grey, black, white, tan, denim, etc.) They can all be mismatched easily.

5. Pick one persons look to start. (I knew I wanted to wear this dress. Even though it is orange, there are white, tan, grey, and sage colors in it as well. I pulled those colors for the boys!)

6. Don’t pick anything overly “trendy.” Fashions and trends are constantly changing, there is no way around that. However, if you want something that stands the test of time don’t go head to toe trendy fashion on every family member.

By Beaus & Ashley

Uncategorized
T-Shirt Dress | Fall Transition
Posted on August 17, 2017

T-Shirt Dress and Fall Transition Outfits.

T-Shirt Dress | Tan Booties | Chambray Shirt |

This t-shirt dress has been my go-to post baby look. It’s so easy to throw on and go!

We are down at the beach soaking in some family time with the boy’s and their grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and some of our good friends. I was wearing this dress out and about running errands to get ready to come down here and I’ve also been using it as a cover up now that we’ve arrived here.

Packing for a 9 day trip with 2 babies under 2 is no easy task. We decided to fly so I had to really plan out the suitcase situation, and be mindful of space. (Rolling up their clothes really does save a ton of room!) There were so many bottles, toys, clothes, swim gear, etc. I didn’t have much time to pack for myself (or much room.) I stuck with easy pieces like this dress, jean shorts, tank tops, etc. One of the best parts about heading down to the beach is how laid back the days are. I have yet to wear any eye makeup or heels of any sort.

I hope everyone had a great week. I’ll be sharing lots of beach pics soon!

P.S. Check out this other post with another one of my favorite graphic tank dresses HERE.

By Beaus & Ashley

Uncategorized
10 Reasons I’m “Lucky”
Posted on March 2, 2017

“Lucky” Sweatshirt | “Lucky” Sweatshirt- hoodie version | Stripe T-Shirt | Ripped Jeans | Booties | Gucci Bag | Necklaces | Bracelets

Photography: Chelsea Rochelle Photography

I always find the CUTEST and comfiest sweatshirts for each season/holiday at ILY Couture. Typically, I go for ones that I can wear all the time and not just around that holiday. This “lucky” sweatshirt is so cozy and works perfect for March and St.Patrick’s but isn’t to “theme-y” to not whip out the rest of the year too. 😉

I’ve never considered myself a “lucky” person, as in I’ve never really won anything or anything like that. BUT in all actuality I am extremely lucky and with St.Patrick’s Day coming up I thought it would be fitting to take a step back and share some of the reasons I know consider myself a very lucky lady.

If you have been following me for awhile, you know that one of the things I truly believe in is the power of positive thinking. I think if you remain in the positive and put out positive energy to others than that will come back to you. One of the staples of this is that you have gratitude for the things you already have. Life gets so hectic and it’s so easy (I do it all the time) to just think of everything that’s going wrong or all of the things that you don’t havc that you lose sight of all the great things that you already do.

This would be a great tradition to start for St.Patrick’s day. Each family member could write out some reasons they are “lucky”/thankful. It’s a great lesson to teach kids!

So… here it is. 10 Reasons I consider myself “lucky”

10. I live in a city I truly love! I’ve lived in several places, but Nashville just feels like home to me. There is a creative energy in the air here and always new restaurants and spots to try. The people are friendly, and the food is great. What more can you want in a place you call home?!

9. I have a roof over my head and a pair of wheels to get me around. Simple…but so many don’t! Trey and I bought our house just 2 years ago and it was brand new. Lately, with the new baby coming all I can think is we need bigger & better. It’s good for me to take a step back and be so thankful we have what we do!

8. I’m lucky enough to stay at home with Georgie and soon to be baby 2. It is by far the hardest job I’ve ever had, but also the single most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. I’m fortunate enough that it was an option for me to do so, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

7. With that being said, I am so lucky that we found a great nanny that comes once a week so I have time to work on the blog and have some “me” time. It’s a new found thing for me, and I’m cherishing it! When you take care of yourself (even if it’s just a few hours a week) you are more apt to take care of your kids and husband.

6. We have a great extended family who is always there for one another. (On both sides.)

5. That I’m able to do blogging! It’s a side gig that allows me to still be creative, and dive into the fashion world. It has also introduced me to some amazing women who have turned into even more amazing friends.

4. That I’m able to travel with Trey frequently. I’ve always been a bit of a nomad. Staying in one place to long makes me bored. (Quickly) We have gone on some great trips and shown Georgie so many things in his short little life too!

3. For great friends! From the lifelong ones to the new ones!

2. My health. It’s something that when you have it, you take it for granted. When you sit back and think, it’s one of the most important things we have!

1. Trey, Georgie and baby #2 (no we don’t have a name yet).

Xo,

ASH

By Beaus & Ashley

Uncategorized
Perfect Spring Jacket
Posted on February 12, 2017

Embroidered Jacket | Rust Bodysuit | Bootie (exact same style/ different colors) Bracelets: cadyn + Charlie

Ok… I found ya’ll the perfect spring transition jacket. The embroidery is beutiful and I loved the army green color. (It also comes in black.) I paired it with a rust bodysuit to brighten it up for spring. How cute would this jacket be with some cut off denim shorts once it warms up?! This Nashville weather has been so bi-polar lately. One day it’s 20 degrees and the next it’s 60. I’m sure ready for some sunshine and warmer days. It’s so hard to get out and about with Georgie when it’s cold. On the warm days I try to take advantage and take him for strolls and out and about for errands.

Xo,

ASH

http://rstyle.me/n/cexqcvbz57x

By Beaus & Ashley

Uncategorized
Napa Valley Trip
Posted on November 8, 2016

Fringe Poncho | Studded Hat | Snakeskin Bootie

There is a saying that has always stayed with me, “don’t get attached to anything that doesn’t have a heartbeat.” While I agree with this 99% of the time, I must say I’ve developed an attachment to Napa. With the upcoming holiday season quicky approaching, it was amazing to get some QT with my husband.

The first day we went immediatly to Inglenook for Drake to play a small private show. The mansion and grounds were nothing short of stunning.

After Inglenook, we headed to our hotel the Senza Boutique Hotel. Our room was contemporary but cozy and I loved having a fireplace this time of the year. (P.S. If you are planning on going.. I HIGHLY reccomend the fall season. The colors in the valley are stunning and the weather was perfect.)

We then had dinner at Don Guilano beside the hotel. Not only was my meal unbelievable, but we were able to sit outside and look into the courtyard, which featured several local artisans work. It looked like Alice in Wonderland.

Kimono | Boyfriend Jeans

The next morning we got up and went to listen to Colbie Caillet play a show at Brasswood. I am such a fan of hers, so it was great meeting her. Bonus…she just moved to Nashville.

We then went across the street to Trinchero. This may have been my favorite stop of the whole trip! The aesthetic was an amped up Restoration Hardware. Anyone that knows me, knows how amazing that was for me. There was also a bocci ball court in the back with the prettiest view of Mt. Helena.

We made friends with Carlo, his family owns Sutter Home Winery and several others, including the namesake, Trinchero. He took us into their private wine cellar and cave. He also took us back across the street to Brasswood to enjoy their homeade Mozzerella. (Possibly, the best thing I’ve ever eaten. They make it in house, then bring it to the table in a cast iron skillet and roll it in olive and oil and garlic. The mozzerella was accompanied by Carlo’s own wine, Taken. If you head to Napa this is a MUST DO!

| Off Shoulder Navajo Sweater | Black Jeans

Day three consisted of a writer’s round at Sutter Home followed by a wine tasting at the beautiful Caymus. I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves on this one.

I was so thankful for such a special trip surronded by inspiring and positive people. Dinners consisted of us talking about our hopes and dreams, and thinking how we could turn those thoughts into reality.

I’m starting this week feeling motivated and really grateful. Hope ya’ll have the best week! Go out and goal dig.

XO,

ASH

1 Comment

By Beaus & Ashley

Uncategorized
Bell Sleeves & A Baby
Posted on October 3, 2016

On Georgie: Zip-Up Hoodie | Moccasins

On Me: Crop Skinny Jean | Slide On Bootie | Bell-Sleeve Top

It’s finally feeling like fall. Hallelujah! The greatest part of the new found cooler temperatures is being able to spend more time outdoors. Georgie wasn’t quite big enough to be outside for any long period of time this summer. I’m ready to take full advantage of patios and parks.

G and I had a mommy/son lunch date the other day and walked around a nearby neighborhood. He loves being outside, and I love to be able to get out of the house a bit so it was a win-win!

How cute is this hooded zip-up jacket on Georgie?! I love the leather detailing on the zip. It does come in a white and pretty blush (for any girl mamas out there) as well. I love the hood option to cover his little ears, if it gets too windy. Luckily, he’s still fitting in my favorite moccasins. These were a shower gift, and possibly G’s most worn item. He gets complimented on them all the time!

I love the bell sleeve trend and couldn’t pass up this striped top. (P.S. It’s $20!) If you have stopped by the blog before, you know I can’t stop wearing these cropped skinny jeans. Best purchase that I have made in a hot minute.

By Beaus & Ashley

Older Posts

Newer Posts

Meet Ashley
Hey ya’ll! I’m Ashley Wilson, publisher of Beaus & Ashley. I’m a mama of two littles, wife, fashionista and travel enthusiast.

Beaus & Ashley is a community where I share my take on a “lazy luxe” lifestyle. Fashion, home decor, and cooking can feel luxurious, but with an easy and laid back approach.

Shop the Instagram!

Subscribe & Follow

subscribe
Pinterest

Archives
Archives
Search