Charming Charlie

If you have never been to this store, you are definitely missing out.  A friend of mine told me about this accessory store mall.  When I walked in, I was excitedly overwhelmed by the color coordinated plethora of clutches, bangles, hats, earrings, scarfs– you name it, it’s there!  The best part about it is that all of items are extremely affordable.  Think Forever 21 prices but more selection and quality. To find a Charming Charlie in your area and learn more about them, go to www.charmingcharlie.com

Here are a couple items that you can find at Charming Charlie:

Lux Evening Bag

Lux Evening Bag, $24.97

Fire and Pearl Earrings

Fire & Pearl Earrings, $9.97

Bollywood Necklace

Bollywood Necklace, $12.97

Embellished Floral Sandals

Embellished Floral Sandals, $24.97

Brighten Your Life with Neon

Neon is my favorite summer trend right now.  It is a way to brighten up the normally neutral trends and gives a little ’80s vibe.  All you need is a touch- whether its a neon clutch, bright pink nails, or a bright scarf. 

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aren’t you in love with these clutches?

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Vanity space ♥

One of my favorite wedding shower gifts was a beautiful white vanity set.  My fiance just set it up for me in our spare bedroom and I am going to be setting it up this week.  I am so excited to decorate my area where I can do all my makeup, hair, and any other beauty related things.  Every girl should have a space where they can get ready.  Fighting over the mirror and the sink with fiance got old really quick.  Once my vanity is all done, I will be sure to share pictures with all of you!  Send me some pics to of your vanity spaces as well and I will feature them in my blog: jdechesser@yahoo.com

Here some pictures that I am currently using for inspiration.  The look I am going for: simple & chic.

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Chocolate Pretzel Bites

I discovered these delicious, easy treats at a 4th of July party and had to share.  They are so yummy and so easy to make!

Ingredients:

Pretzel snaps (or any oher small shaped pretzel), Hershey Kisses, and M&Ms  (you can use substitutions to mix it up such as Rolo candies)

Directions:

1. Place the pretzel squares on a baking sheet, and top each one with a Hershey Kiss.

2. Cook for 3 minutes in a 200 degree oven.

3. Press an M&M into the center of each Hershey Kiss. Refrigerate for approximately 15-20 minutes or until cool.

You can also try with Mini M&Ms:

Homemade Hummus

I was at a friend’s house a couple weeks ago and she had homemade hummus that was delicious.  She served it with beer bread and crackers… to die for!  This is such an easy, healthy appetizer to make and it will be a hit with all your guests (if you don’t eat it all first!)

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of chickpeas
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic
  • Tahini or soy sauce
  • 2-4 tablespoons of lemon juice
  • water (until you reach desired consistancy)
  • Cayenne pepper (a pinch of two – depending how spicy you want it)
  • Optional: pine nuts, parley, paprika, oil

Directions:

1. Combine all in ingredients in a food processor and let it run until smooth. Serve with your favorite veggie, cracker, or bread.