There’s something about January that makes my head start spinning with ideas for the future. Maybe it’s the new year--a blank slate, a fresh start. Maybe it’s the winter blues, making me think about what I’d like to change. Whatever the case, I’ve been feeling a bit restless and anxious lately. At 23, I know I’m still young--but I have so many things I want to do and I feel like the clock is ticking!! So I'm trying to figure out where to spend my time, energy, and money--because I’m becoming increasingly aware of the fact that there’s only so much of it. On the one hand, I really want to do some traveling with Ben while we’re still young (and without children). We’ve never been to Europe, and I’ve been dyyyying to go. We’ve also thought quite a bit about moving out of Seattle (somewhere where the housing prices are more affordable, and it rains a little less).

Then there’s the bigger issue of what direction to take for our future! Ben doesn’t want to work a desk job forever, and I’d love to be self-employed and working from home by the time we have kids. We’ve talked a lot about buying a piece of property and turning it into a wedding venue. It’s such a big investment though, and that’s scary! I’d also love to start doing some interior & event styling--but with a full-time job right now....well, there just aren’t enough hours in the day.

Our hard-earned savings are only so big, and I’m hoping and praying that we won’t regret how we spent--or didn’t spend--it down the road. I really want to take the leap and pursue some of our hopes and dreams, but it’s scary, you know?? Those of you who have done something you really wanted to, even thought it was scary (starting your own business, buying a house, making a big move, switching career paths, or whatever)...what’s your experience and advice?

Image Sources: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8

I’m pretty excited for today’s post about Sarah Sherman Samuel of Smitten Studio (how’s that for alliteration??) This girl has got serious style, from her outfits to the parties she throws to her gorgeous home and cabin. Let’s start with the outfits, shall we? Sarah has such a knack for pairing colors and patterns in fresh ways. And she’s obviously a knockout. Those legs! Think she’ll trade me?

Now let’s talk parties. Check out these images from Sarah’s 30th birthday party! I love it all, especially the black and gold color scheme.

Last but definitely not least, let’s take a peek at her home! Sarah and her husband Rupert actually have two homes--a townhouse in LA and a cabin on the shores of Lake Michigan. I’ve already shared a photo of her studio gallery wall here, but I just had to share a few more peeks into her lovely studio/home office.

And that cabin I mentioned earlier...it’s amaaazing! They’re still in the process of renovating, but it already looks like the coziest, more stylish cabin I’ve ever laid eyes on.

All photos via Smitten Studio

You guys...it’s finally Friday!! I’m so ready for the weekend. And what better way to kick it off than with a beautifully styled brunch full of scrumptious looking goodies, amiright? One of my favorite things about the weekend is sleeping in and enjoying a lazy late breakfast. Even better if it's with friends, pie, and beautiful calligraphy!

I’m loving the knotted napkin with a few sprigs of greenery tucked in. Such a simple and perfect place setting.

I’ve got to practice my script handwriting. This chalkboard is just gorgeous.

Concept and Styling: Bird Dog Wedding / Photography: Paige Newton Photography / Floral: Pollen Floral Art / Venue: Olive & June / Hair: Erica Rae / Makeup: Nisa Nicole Makeup Artistry / Wardrobe Styling:  Jessica Thompson, Big Bertha / Paper Goods: Alison Martin of Wayfarers Creative Co / Food: Olive & June / Desserts: Central Market / Models: Mariah Price, Claire Zinneker, Michaele Smith, Rebecca Rawson

I grew up without a TV, which meant as a kid I spent a lot of time reading. We’d go to the library with big paper bags and leave with them full. My love for reading waned a little in college, when I had so much required reading that I got burned out. Now that I’m out of school, I’ve been trying to read a bit more, and I’m feeling that old love resurge. There’s something about getting lost in a book that is so relaxing! But reading is a solo activity (for the most part), so I also really love being able to cuddle with Ben and watch a movie or a good TV show together. Here are some of the books, movies, and shows that I’ve enjoyed lately, as well as some that I’m looking forward to. What have you been reading and watching? Any recommendations for me?

My recent favorites: 1. The Perfectly Imperfect Home by Deborah Needleman. I love all the pretty illustrations! / 2. The Scarlet Thread by Francine Rivers / 3. Safety Not Guaranteed. Cute feel-good movie, and it’s set here in Washington state! / 4. Decorate Workshop by Holly Becker / 5.  My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult / 6. White Collar. Season 5 starts on Tuesday! I’m pretty excited...

On my list: 1. The Luminous Portrait by Elizabeth Messina / 2. The Perks of Being a Wallflower / 3. Blog, Inc. by Joy Cho / 4. Making a House Your Home by Clare Nolan / 5. Les Misérables / 6. Pretty Pastel Style by Selina Lake