Product with Purpose: Project Freewaters

Most of us will never have to experience what it's like to go without clean water, and sometimes I find myself taking that for granted. For countless others around the world, access to clean water is something they have never experienced, and are suffering the consequences. Freewaters is the non-profit organization that we want to highlight this week, because they are striving to provide these people with water that can and will save lives.

Here's the deal- purchasing one pair of Freewaters sandals provides one person with clean water for one year. I've bought multiple pairs of flip flops in my life, and am so thrilled that there are now adorable options out there with that kind of guarantee! In honor of the start of summer, how about throwing on a pair of these fun flip flops with your favorite sundress and making your way to the beach? Remember, you'll be changing a life while you're at it!

Table for 6

For all of you 9-5ers out there... the weekend is here!! What better way to welcome this time than to have a few friends over for a fabulous dinner party? Don't let yourself get too overwhelmed thinking about feeding 5 people appetizers, drinks, an entree and dessert. Have fun writing the menu and setting the tablescape. Focus on your guests and the foods they are interested in. Just a tip, if your guests ask to bring a side dish, definitely take them up on their offer! I love the sense of community when friends are a part of the process.

One of my favorite parts of a dinner party is coordinating the design theme for the night. For my last dinner party, I went with calm grays, bright greens and fresh whites. The colors really off-set the deep burgundies in the pulled pork and splash of yellow from the corn. I hope you are inspired to have friends over this weekend for good conversation and community!

Happy Weekend!

Suz

A Bit of Enchantment

For anyone who has seen the Disney movie, Tangled, you might be able to relate to my recent need to experience the magical floating lanterns, firsthand. Well, last night my dream came true! (to some extent at least) A friend of mine brought one of these lanterns back from a trip, and I couldn't wait to try it out...so we didn't. We went up to the roof, lit the lantern and watched as it floated delicately into the clouds and out of sight.

It's the little things in life that can just be so enchanting! I'm thinking when I get married, forget the rice or the bubbles, I want floating lanterns to be my send off, kind of like the last picture. Is that too much to ask?

Happy (almost) Friday!

Jenn

Product with Purpose: iSanctuary

We're so excited to share this organization with you because of the incredible work they are doing to transform lives in India, and also because they give all of us the opportunity to "shop with purpose." iSanctuary is a non-profit organization that began right here in Southern California, but is now working on the ground in India with girls that have been rescued from the grips of human trafficking and slavery. Once the girls are rescued, they are placed in safe-homes where iSanctuary is able to provide them with education, counseling and sustainable job skills, primarily in the form of jewelry making.

That's where we come in! Browse their online boutique, or find a retail location near you to purchase your own beautiful handmade jewelry. 100% above fair trade wage is then paid to each girl and put directly into a personal bank account to save for their future. iSanctuary can also host a jewelry party in your home (we had one last year!), for you and all of your friends to shop in support of this great cause. Check them out!

Carefree Camping

As we start to plan our summer getaways, Jenn and I have been collecting tid bits of inspiration from different designers to help us plan and pack. I just love the way this shot from the Stone Cold Fox 2011 collection captures the carefree spirit of summer... I'll soon be off to Yosemite for a much needed break and am already on the hunt for the perfect breezy lace top and comfy chic shorts... getting excited to lounge by a river in a few days!!

Spring Blooms

Hello loves! It is almost officially summer!! And although I can't wait to frolic down to the beach to soak in the rays the next few months, there are so many fabulous moments to cherish in spring. One of my favorite things to do during this spring to summer transition is buying big, beautiful peonies from the local market! Check out these beauties I stumbled upon from Trader Joe's. I recommend picking up some variation of spring blooms to liven up your home this week!

Happy Monday,

Suz