A few Sundays ago I watched Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette for the first time after a coworker ( aware of my love for fashion and all things French) suggested I watch it. The following day at the office we recounted the fabulous dresses and of course the pastries. This conversation gave me a great idea…to turn a Marie Antoinette inspired dessert party into a reality. Last month I had the opportunity to visit Versailles and Marie Antoinette’s Petit Trianon and it was surreal . I’ve always been fascinated by history’s leading ladies. Today on on the blog I’m showing how you too can throw a dessert party inspired by “The Queen of Fashion” without spending a fortune. 

I’ve linked the cute paper products here: plates, scalloped napkins, three tier cake stand, pretty plates. You can either order them directly from the vendor or from Amazon like I did. Also, if you love Parisian inspired decor, Michael’s has a ton of cute items to put the finishing touches on your table top. Bon appetit ! 

It’s that time of year when the stores are filled with everything pink, red and heart shaped. Sure, Valentine’s Day is about romance but on February 13th (Galentine’s Day) we get to celebrate our lady friends and what’s more fun than that?! Today I’m sharing some great gift ideas (for the special gals in your life) and all of my picks are well under $50. 

First off, I’m loving this T-shirt, so much in fact, that I’ll probably end up buying it for myself. For the coffee loving gal in your life, this mug would make a great gift. You could always fill it with candy and maybe a gift card to her favorite coffee shop to support her habit. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the over the knee socks I recently purchased, so I’ve link some similar ones.

Some of you may disagree with me, but I think candles make great gifts. I’ve linked a couple here and here that I love. Lastly, these strawberries and cream white chocolate truffles are amazing!  Buy some for a bestie but be sure to buy some for yourself as well (trust me).  Hopefully I was able to make your Galentine’s Day shopping a bit easier this year. My gals now know what they’re getting but yours will be pleasantly surprised!!

Just a few more ideas…. ( Mom, in case you’re reading this I haven’t purchased any of these items YET haha)  Cute earrings , on the go tumbler , metallic pink sunnies, casual hat

It’s hard to believe the first week of the new year has already come to an end. I’m not one for New Year’s resolutions, but I do like set realistic goals to work towards throughout the year. It’s taken me a while to realize I’m always happiest when I’m working towards  something. I may not know what that something is all the time but I try to appreciate the journey. Those close to me know I’m an advocate of list making, so today I’m sharing a few of my personal and professional goals for 2017: 

• Stick to learning French. A couple years ago my fiancé gave me the gift of Rosetta Stone for Christmas. It does make learning a language easy, but like anything it takes time and practice.

• Read more non fiction. I love to read but I usually end up reading smut. This year I’d like to read more non fiction on topics that interest me. Currently I’m reading “Seven Ages of Paris ” by Alistair Horne.  

•Connect with other bloggers in my area. I think it’s really important to surround yourself with people who are supportive and equally as passionate about their work. I love learning from others and lending a helping hand when I have the opportunity. 

• Explore. If you’ve been somewhere before or you’re going for the first time there’s always something new to experience. For example, I just returned from Los Angeles. I’ve been there a few times, but there were quite a few firsts on this trip ( The LACMA, The La Brea Tar Pits and shopping at The Grove). 

• Work on All Glam No Filter. I like to call All Glam No Filter my second job. This year I’d like to post one new blog post a week and 1-2 Instagram photos a day. If there’s anything you’d like to see or you have constructive criticism just let me know. 

What are some of your goals for 2017? What keeps you motivated to accomplish them? I’d love for you to share!