BELLEVUEGRL EVOLVED

I've been missing in action for awhile. There have been so many changes going on, and I just wanted to update everyone on that.

When I first started BellevueGrl back in 2009, it was to support local business and local fashion. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful business owners, local designers, makeup artists, and entertainment personalities. I have bonded with so many people, and I am so very honored to call them my friends.

I've photographed hundreds of shows, attended front row fashion events, met some of our wonderful Seahawk players, and dined on some of the best fare from all over the city.

BellevueGrl started branching out to go beyond just the local city and Seattle. It soon incorporated designers from Project Runway, personalities from Sally Beauty, friends from LA. I started writing for a few online publications, became a brand ambassador for AHAVA, did some visual merchandising, and immersed myself in the field of fashion completely, once again.

I most recently became a fashion and lifestyle writer for a digital magazine in Beverly Hills, and attended LAFW where I was able to go backstage and capture all of the behind the scenes action, watch models rehearse for shows, be able to watch hair and makeup teams work their magic, I met with emerging designers that were of a global outreach, and so BellevueGrl evolved once again.

Evolving implies change, and that's kind of the beauty of things. When something grows, rises up from the ground to become something that can make an impact outside of it's normal boundaries.

BellevueGrl will soon become a new entity "Just A Girl In The City Too", a new digital fashion spot featuring emerging women designers, interviews, photos and more. I will be doing mentoring, as I believe in developing talent and inspiring others to reach their goals and giving back, and I will be embracing more of an entrepreneurial role, and hopefully, putting my book out on shelves in 2018.

Writing a mission statement for a new publication was once a dream, and looking back on the past few years, I feel so very blessed.

Will you come along on the journey with me?

Thank you all for your support, friendship, comments. To all who are out there, never underestimate the power of your talents or voice. One article, one photograph, one painting, can make an impact on someones life in a moment.

You never know who's watching! 

Until next time~
With so much love
BellevueGrl

ENCHANTÉ

If you've never been to New Mexico, you're missing out.

Dubbed "The Land Of Enchantment" this beautiful southwest spot definitely lives up to it's name, with gold and watermelon sunsets and a sky full of stars.

Not only does it sport the wonderful capital of Santa Fe, but there is a certain charm to Old Town in Albuquerque.

I had a chance to visit a few months ago, and was impressed by the galleries that it has to offer.

One that caught my interest was GhostWolf Gallery, where I  had the chance to meet with local artists.

Tucked into a cozy corner, one feels the ambiance of walking into a friend's home with speciality pieces made to make you immediately smile.

Usually, there is an art crawl or special event going on, a chance to do a little champagne or wine tasting, and mingle with the creators of copper, clay, and canvas works.

There's plenty to catch the eye as one strolls from room to room, and always a bright blue sky to gaze up at while meandering the patio outdoors.

I was able to chat with Amy M. Ditto, Owner about her work and the pieces that she is most proud of.Hearing her speak, you can really pick up on  the energy of her creations.

Amy's favorite work is her "Dia de los Moo-uertos" the poster, which to her surprise, won at the Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival. Another favorite piece (mine too) is "Meanwhile Back In Kansas" which depicts a very calm "Dorothy" during the raging storm.

This piece is printed on dye infused aluminum, and gets rave reviews from everyone. There are so many who see this as a symbol of strength.

The Gallery is open from 11am-6pm, and is closed on Tuesdays.

If you're traveling anytime through the southwest, be sure to put this on your "to do list". The memories and the warm atmosphere of friends gathering will last forever.

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl

Photo Credits: Elaine Hamilton
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

" READY TO PAAARTY "

What's a birthday without a few glam presents, right?

Especially when the treats come from Tarte and Sephora! This years #BeautyInsider treat from Sephora was this fabulous duo.

Inside is a full size Amazonian Clay 12 hour blush in a limited edition shade "Paaarty" which is a peachy nude shade, teamed with a mini tarteist creamy lip paint in "Birthday Suit" a sweet confection of peach and beige.

This set is perfect for the gal on the go (like me!)

Grab yours at Sephora, and get ready to dazzle. #BeautyInsider membership is free, and you can earn points per purchase for all kinds of treasures.

"Paaarty on! "

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl

Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

"IT'S IN THE JEANS"

If you don't have a denim jacket as part of your wardrobe,grab one!
I adore the versatility of this Old Navy distressed denim jacket.


Shown here is New Medium Authentic for $36.94 view at:http://oldnavy.gap.com

This jacket will pair with anything for those cool,breezy days or evenings.Dress up or down,shorts,slacks,sundresses or even a little black knit dress ,add sneakers or your favorite sandals.

There's plenty of choices out there from Maurice's ($39.00) to Free People.
Try the Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Denim Jacket for $98.00  log onto www.freepeople.com for further information.

These styles are pack-able,toss-able,easy wearing! Grab your sunnies and go!

I feel a summer road trip coming on!

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl

Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

THESE LIFE LESSONS

I posted a portion of this the other day on Facebook,but knowing me,I had more to add to this story,and the writer in me simply had to expand on those ideas. It is a bit like an earworm,something just tells you to keep on writing.

On Life...

You never really know how precious and short life is until you are faced with almost losing it. People can tell you a million times,but unless you are forced to step into those shoes,we remain blind. Cherish those that you care for,tell them every day how much they mean to you. Find the words,the time,to let them know. Even if you feel silly.Don't waste a moment. Celebrate life,even if it's one small thing a day.Celebrate love,it returns what we give to it.Never take it for granted. Celebrate friends and family,because that is our greatest treasure.Take the time to "smell the roses" because you might not be here the next day to do so. Enjoy the wind in your hair,the sun on your face,the smell of the rain,the starlight after the clouds have passed. Find room in your heart to make others who are hurting smile,you never know whose life you may touch!

On Love:

Often,we are too afraid to accept love,as if we are afraid that the real thing would be our un-doing.We are afraid of the cost,of hurting someone,when instead we should be embracing that connection,that welcoming smile,the comfort in knowing that someone else will stand beside you through thick and thin,have your back,see you through your visions,and help you achieve your dreams. That uncanny connection is there for a reason.Trust it! If they haven't walked away through the tough times,they arent going to. They are a foundation,a sounding board,and a forever friend. When something is right,no distance,time,no amount of good times or bad will change that.


On Our Heart:

We are so used to rejection, so used to having people take advantage,that we almost accept that as a norm,that when we find acceptance,we are scared of it. What we dont see is that that person,or those people are brought into our lives for that very purpose of re-connecting our souls,our hearts back to the universe,bringing joy,laughter and purpose into our lives,inspiring us to think,often to think beyond ourselves,and to reach out to others in turn. At least the right person should do that,inspire us to become better versions of ourselves.

Compassion is always in fashion!

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl

Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

"YOU GLO GIRL"

Get ready for the warmer months ahead with these no-sun tips for a healthy glow ...

Start by Faking It! Use a self tanner for a few nights before you go to sleep to wake up with a fresh,hint of color.

Apply loose powder makeup two levels darker than your usual shade to give a healthy "spent the day at the beach" look.

Shown here, Laura Geller in Golden Rose and Honeysuckle ,and Baked Blush-N-Brighten in Tropical Hues.

Try adding a peach or rosy blush to your makeup,sweep a highlighter just slightly above your cheekbones,and brush over shoulders and collar-bone.

 Extend the life of your natural tan by applying a tiny bit of Tantalizer by LORAC to your temple,forehead,cheekbones,and bridge of nose. Think where the sun would naturally "hit",blend well.

 What are you waiting for? Get "Glowing!"

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl

Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

HAND IN HAND

I absolutely fell in love with this hand cream! Everything from the lovely packaging to the incredible smell,even the paper insert inside the box smelled  heavenly.

I was asked to review this product by the folks over at Beautystat.com,and couldn't have been happier with the results.


I have used this for over a week now,and my hands feel soft,and comfortable. I really adore the surge of moisture that it gives my hands at the end of the day. I keep this one in my bag so that whenever I need a little lift I can reach for it!

I didn't expect this to smell so wonderful! The Prickly Pear and Moringa go hand in hand so well! The price for such a large tube is so affordable, you will want to keep more than one ready for use.
($24.00 at https://www.ahava.com/mineral-hand-cream-prickly-pear-moringa )

For all things beautiful,stop by Beautystat.com

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl

*** Disclaimer***
This was a sponsored post by Beautystat.com. All opinions are my own.
Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

YOU KEEP "LIFTING" ME

Leave it again to the great plant power of AHAVA!

I was asked to review this product from Ahava,courtesy of the folks over at Beautystat.I was simply delighted with the results!

 I love the non-sticky formula! It left my skin feeling soft and smooth,even with just one application,after a few days of use,my skin did feel a little more "lifted".

The scent was floral,not overpowering,just fresh and light,and the consistency of the cream was fluffy and generous! It felt luxurious slipping on,and I could get dressed right away,no waiting for the cream to sink in. No harsh chemical smell, great for my super sensitive skin!

 I would definitely purchase this product again! Oh,and the tube size is huge,this will last a long time! (Firming Body Cream $42.00)

For more information,please go tohttps://www.ahava.com/firming-body-cream  and for all things beauty,hop over to Beautystat.com


Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl

*** Disclaimer***
This was a sponsored post by Beautystat.com. All opinions are my own.
Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

"PEARLS OF WISDOM"

It has certainly been wet and cold here in Seattle! It is a bit unusual for March,we have even been seeing some snow from time to time,along with thunder,and even a day (yesterday) where it snowed and the sun was out!

Mother nature has been up to her tricks. Either that,or someone bribed that old groundhog back in February to keep winter going on our side of the states.

Lately though, I have not minded the rain,It is as if somehow it has washed away the past,and I cannot wait to step out into the sun again in more ways than one.

Our lives get so cluttered,that we have very little time to stop and breathe.Often,we do not notice the things that are right there in front of us because our focus is elsewhere.

Sometimes,we are faced with having to take a leap of faith,to go for it! Our hearts say yes,but our brains stop us. Our brains try to protect us from perceived harm and that is where the negativity comes from. The "I can'ts ,the but what if's ,the need to dis-engage and distance ourselves. Fear is a killer of dreams. It keeps us from reaching our true potential,what we can have in our lives,vs what we are willing to just simply live with because that is what we are used to.

I wanted to feature these pearls today on the blog, because they were given to me by my Grandmother (They are from Saks Fifth Avenue,NY) where I grew up as a child. They have survived the years,a bit shop worn,but like us, they have endured.

Do you have some well loved pieces?

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl


Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

GOOD FOR WHAT "ALES" YOU !

On a recent trip to Black Raven Brewing the other day, I just happened to discover the most amazing product!

 Who knew that they carried anything other than beer? Right! (If you dont know about their beer,you must visit,it is so good!)

Black Raven Brewing in Redmond,WA

This Pepo Park Soap is natural and uses the spent grains from the beer made at Black Raven! 

This lavender soap smells so heavenly!  

The soap is made right here in Kirkland,WA,is carried by Herban Wellness in Kirkland,and Black Raven Brewing (Redmond,WA) and they even have a distribution showroom in Park Place in Seattle! Visit, The Handmade Showroom.

They also make lip balm,salve,salts and more! 

As you can see,the bar is a super generous size!

Please checkout their website for more details http://www.pepopark.com/

Until next time~

Hearts and Hugs

BellevueGrl

Photo Credits:

All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.

BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

"STACKED"

The odds will definitely be stacked in your favor with these wonderful little treasures from Charming Charlie!

I cant get enough of the versatility of these gold and silver stacked bracelets. These can be worn with anything from jeans and a sweater to your favorite little night on the town dress.

Every time I walk into this place,I walk out the door with something fabulous!

Perk up your spring wardrobe with a set of stacked bracelets. Prices range from $10.00 and up. Mix and match sets for a look thats all you!

You can check out their selection in store,but warning, you will walk out with much more than you expected,or at: http://www.charmingcharlie.com/jewelry/bracelets.html


Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl


Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

DIAMONDS AND PEARLS

It feels like it has been a long time since I have posted. I am just catching up after all of the holiday season,and this was originally intended to be a Valentine's Day post,but I never made the deadline.

Some of my favorite little accessories are the ones that go with just about everything from casual to career wear.

 These Honora Pearl earrings are just the thing for a casual brunch out on a Sunday,perfect for the nine to fiver,or for a night out on the town with your sweetie.

Shown here, are two perfect styles,a diamond and pearl drop earring featuring freshwater cultured pearls and 10K yellow gold,and something fun, red freshwater pearl earring studs. These are the perfect size,not too overwhelming!

Did you know that Honora carries pearls in just about any color you want? It's true! Blue,Gold,Green,you name it,even lovely lavender pearls. Check them out online at https://www.honora.com/  (right now,their website is being updated,but please check back)

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl


Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

KISS KISS

February is the month of love,and what better way to prepare your pout for a few Valentines Day smooches then by grabbing one of my favorites,"The Kiss" lip scrub by Lush!

I love the little "candy-like" hearts inside the jar. This is only available until Valentine's Day, so grab it while you can!

An 0.8oz jar is $9.95 and features castor sugar,safflower oil,fine sea salt and fair trade organic cocoa butter!


For more information,please check out http://www.lushusa.com/face/lips/the-kiss/05662.html

Be my Valentine?

Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs
BellevueGrl


Photo Credits:
All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.

"CHARMED,I'M SURE"

One of my absolute favorite places to shop for accessories is a wonderful boutique called Charming Charlie.

It is hard to walk in and not walk out with a bagful or two of handbags,scarves,watches and you name it!

Their prices cant be beat,and often they have bogo sales that will allow us budget conscious gals to "splurge" a little.

Buckle Sparkle Ring

I always find just the right accessory whenever I stop by,and I always feel good knowing that I didn't overspend. 

Crocodile Strap Watch

 

I believe there are three locations in Washington right now, My local store is in Redmond Town Center.

For more information,please visit: http://www.charmingcharlie.com/

Red Leather Strap Watch

Until next time~

Hearts and Hugs

BellevueGrl

Photo Credits:

All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.

BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.