A Nautical Holiday

I love all things nautical--and the Christmas decorations at Disney's Boardwalk, Yacht + Beach Club, and Swan + Dolphin never fail to impress. Below are some of my favorites this season!

(this lovely ship wreath can be found in the hallway near the Captain's Grille at Disney's Yacht Club Resort)

(flip-flops, beach chairs and beach balls hang in the garland at Disney's Beach Club Marketplace)

 (red and white on the tree in Disney's Beach Club Resort Solarium)

(a wine tree at Martha's Vineyard, a lounge at Disney's Beach Club Resort)

(the main tree in the lobby of Disney's Yacht Club Resort)

(wreath in the Ale and Compass at Disney's Yacht Club Resort)

(classic seaside decorations on the tree at Disney's Boardwalk)

(gingerbread cones can be enjoyed in Disney's Boardwalk lobby)

(the beautiful fountain at The Swan)

"It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air."

Merry Christmas from the most magical place on earth!

Mele Kalikimaka

Mele Kalikimaka and Hau'oli Makahiki Hou. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Disney's Polynesian Village Resort! I love the tropical ambiance of this beautiful resort. The decorations this year are extra lovely, with bright fresh florals on every tree inside the Great Ceremonial House. 

Here are some Hawaiian words to celebrate the season:

Lei (Garland), Makana (Gift), Akua (God), Kawa'u (Holly), Kaumahana (Mistletoe), Anela (Angel), Ahiahi Kalimaka (Christmas Eve), La'au Kalimaka (Christmas Day), Hau'oli (Joy and Happiness), Aloha (Love)

Trend Spin Linkup: Capes, Ponchos + Coats

Today I have partnered with two of the sweetest bloggers around, Laura of Walking In Memphis In High Heels and Erin of The Fashion Canvas. I am honored to be co-hosting their Trend Spin Linkup. Our theme this week is "Capes, Ponchos and Coats." 

I chose to model this amazing J. Crew Wool Melton Swing Coat, featured in Heather Dove Gray. It is ultra warm and comfy, and pairs well over jeans, a dress or the Tory Burch Walker Cargo Pants I am wearing.

I also added a few pieces from Chloe + Isabel's holiday collection. The Celestial Frost Convertible Necklace (along with the stud earrings!) make any outfit feel regal. 

coat: J. Crew || sweater: Chico's (similar) || pants: Tory Burch || boots: Unisa (similar)

sunglasses: Ray-Ban (similar) || bracelet: Tory Burch (similar) || ring: Tory Burch  Earrings + necklace: Chloe + Isabel || wristlet: Kate Spade New York (similar)

TOMS + Target

I am loving the collaboration between TOMS and Target! I always enjoy being able to shop a brand that is both fabulous and gives back to the community. This is the perfect match. 

The price points are great, and the variety of items--from shoes to t-shirts, to the accessories shown above--are all the quality you would expect of TOMS. I am really happy I picked up the "Build Your Tomorrow" Pouch and the "Simple Is Beautiful" mobile phone case. I think the message on each item is very wise and humbling. I also love the pop of hot pink and mint.

Each tag comes with an explanation of where your money is being delegated. For example, buying the pouch is helping give one week of meals to Americans in need. 

Stop by your local Target today, or visit this link (TOMS + Target) to join the movement.

               One For One. One For All. Happy Holidays. 

Living with Intention: Natalie's Cakes and More

I enjoy sharing stories of hope and compassion--especially throughout the holiday season. I also love when I see social media being used in a positive way. This past week, as I was browsing through my Twitter feed, I noticed a tweet from CNN's Chris Cuomo. It was a link to Go Fund Me--where I found the incredible story of Natalie Dubose. 

Natalie is from Ferguson, Missouri--a town that has been in the news a lot recently. Sure, there have been peaceful protests in this community, but there has also been a lot of unnecessary violence. I personally do not care which "side" someone is on, or what your opinion has been regarding the situation in Ferguson--as long as one's feelings are expressed in a calm and intelligent way. However, I do care when innocent and upstanding members of society are being targeted for no reason. What is happening in Missouri and across the nation is unacceptable. A life was lost, no matter who was at fault, but that does not give someone the excuse to loot, vandalize, beat up or harass a random stranger or business--destroying their livelihood.

Natalie started her cake shop just this past summer, only to have it destroyed. Go Fund Me has given Natalie, and many other wonderful businesses in her community, a chance for a comeback. I find it fascinating how everyone can donate even just one dollar...and those dollars can add up to over $200,000 in less than 24 hours...tweets and posts can go viral...causing everyone from myself to the likes of Patrica Heaton of ABC's The Middle and Brandi Glanville of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills to join in and support this lovely lady. 

This is social media at its finest. Actually, it's the human spirit at its finest and I'm proud of everyone for supporting Natalie. It's incredibly moving, especially during this time of Thanksgiving and Christmas, to see America (and the world!) rally around and give continued hope to one's dreams. 

To support Natalie and other like-minded citizens of Ferguson, Missouri--

visit Natalie's Cakes and More at Go Fund Me.

“There is nothing more beautiful than someone who goes out of their way to make life beautiful for others.” 

Sparkle + Joy

"December...a month of lights, snow and feasts; time to make amends and tie loose ends; finish off what you started...and hope your wishes come true."

Petunia Picks: Chic Shades of Plaid

Thankful

"Be kind, be thoughtful, be genuine...but most of all, be thankful."

Petunia Picks: Colors of Thanksgiving

The Young, The Beautiful, The Stylish

I have always had a profound love for CBS daytime dramas The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful. Many people watch these shows as an escape from reality--but I find them fascinating because they can teach us so much about life and love. 

There are several amazing actresses that have taken their passions beyond the television screen--and I think it's important to recognize some of my favorites here at The Yellow Petunia.

Amelia Heinle recently launched the most fabulous blog called Dear March--which focuses on fashion, beauty and travel. So far, she and her friend/business partner Annie Wonderlich have created excellent content--from interviews to videos--breathtaking photography, and even an online shop! I love her collaborations with Pretty In Ink Stamps and SS Print Shop. They also sell beautiful accessories, my favorites being the Open Heart Ring and Love Letter Necklace. Shop Dear March today and 5% of the proceeds will go to believebig.org--supporting brave men and women battling cancer.

Kelly Kruger also has a new blog, Madison Charles, and I love how she has combined classic beauty with a modern edge. She shares bits and pieces of her personal life, along with her favorite fashion finds and the super-cool glam glow mask!

Jessica Collins may play a lawyer on television, but her true calling is the culinary arts. Her website Jessica Collins shares with us the beauty of food. Honestly, I think she gives Giada a run for her money! Her photos and recipes exude her passion for all things delectable. I especially love her    Key Lime Pie and 1-2-3 Peanut Butter Cookies recipes.

La Petite is the brainchild of the uber-talented Elizabeth Hendrickson. This beautiful website is a girls-only shopping social meets love of all things vintage. Think personal stylist, creative artist, glamour girl, best friend.

Sole9 is a brilliant company founded by Gina Tognoni (the fabulous new Phyllis on Y&R.) Sole9 is the epitome of fashion giving back to society. With each purchase, you are helping support regional and national organizations that shelter, clothe and educate women in need. I love the Angel Ballerina Collection. 

Sharon Case, along with jewelry designer Elif Inanc, created the Pomp brand--classic and luxurious pieces of elegance that will give an extra hint of style to your favorite outfit. I love the Mesh Cuff and Starfish Pendant.

Katherine Kelly Lang, the iconic and beautiful Brooke Logan, is one of my favorite businesswomen! Her line of one-of-a-kind Katherine Kelly Lang Kaftans are perfection. Wearable artwork! They are colorful, stylish, comfortable, feminine and sexy. The kaftan is a very versatile piece--perfect over pants, shorts, a bathing suit and even as loungewear. Two that stand out to me are the Celeste and the Bindi. Katherine photographs so well in each one of her distinct styles. 

 ....and my own fashion find--after a lot of hard work?! My favorite dress of all-time. I call it the "Hope For The Future" dress, worn so well by Hope Logan (Kimberly Matula.) It's actually an Ella Moss--and I'm forever in love with this pink and white wonder!

Petunia Picks: Autumn Leaves

Tone It Up

Once upon a time, in sunny Southern California, two best friends--Karena Dawn and Katrina Hodgson--came up with an idea that would change the world as we know it. That idea was Tone It Up, and words cannot even begin to express my depths of appreciation for these beautiful women. The concept was based around fitness and nutrition--but the end result lead to a greater purpose--a brand that inspires integrity, compassion, confidence and sisterhood. Tone It Up is a lifestyle--where you are encouraged to shine bright in all ways--promoting overall health and well-being--physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

Karena and Katrina may be in fabulous shape--but they are not intimidating. They are real woman who have had real struggles. They incorporate their life lessons and experiences into all they do-- ready to reach out a loving hand to each and every devoted follower and friend. They aren't a "quick fix." Their approach to fitness and nutrition is a process--one that you can be proud of because the end result is always of quality.

Their Beach Babe DVDs and the Tone It Up Nutrition Plan are easy to follow and teach us that we can make working out and eating right fun. I wake up each morning actually looking forward to my "booty call," Perfect Fit Protein Pancake or Bombshell Spell. Their tricks and tips are bound to bring out a glow--directly from your soul. And when you're happy from the inside out--it has such a positive effect on your relationships, dreams, goals, values and lifestyle choices.

The Tone It Up community is a fabulous environment to share your story with others. It's an amazing place of encouragement and support. In fact, I have met several new lifelong friends through Tone It Up (Georgia from Diary of an Aspiring Beach Babe and Kristyn from Creative with Kristyn to name a few!)

Karena and Katrina's products are also top-notch. I never go anywhere without a Perfect Fit Bar (Perfect Fit Protein is the BEST Organic Plant-Based Protein on the market!) and I love their collaboration with Oakley and Maaji. Wearing something with the Tone It Up logo makes me an ambassador for the most exclusive--yet welcoming--club out there!

Visit Tone It Up today and experience all that Karena and Katrina have to offer. Share, Love, Inspire, Sweat. Live happy and healthy. Ride the wave. Savor a sunrise and a beautiful new day. Always have a warm heart, and feel confident to express your unique and amazing self! Be creative. Be adventurous. Be healthy. Stay blessed.

Thank you, K + K, for being my sisters, role models, trainers, wonder women, and beach babes! 

Petunia Picks: Ashley's Favorites

Here are some of my favorite style finds for this week. Leave a comment below and let me know what is currently inspiring you.

On The Agenda

Today is fashion legend Lilly Pulitzer's birthday--so pop open a bottle of champagne, wear something fabulous and honor her legacy with love and sunshine. If you are like me, I think of Lilly all year long by using this colorful agenda book. I came across these back in 2010, and have purchased one ever since--not only as a planner, but as a mini diary. I take it with me on vacation, record special milestones and events, good quotes--and memories. They come in various sizes and I have used all of them--but my favorite is the large because it holds the right amount of room for everything. 

Sure, you can "save the date" on your iPhone or tablet, but there is something very special about an actual physical book with blank pages (and your own handwriting) that cannot be matched by technology. Tradition is chic and never goes out of style. This book even comes with stickers (how fun!) and every month has a beautiful print and delightful saying.

Now through November 10th, head on over to Lilly Pulitzer and celebrate! They are even giving gifts to us--so depending on what you purchase, you could end up with anything from a new bangle to a travel blanket. 

"live everyday like it's a celebration, and make every hour happy hour."

Lumière

I am very excited to share with you Chloe + Isabel's newest collection--just in time for the holiday season! Inspired by the lights of winter, Lumière is delightful...glamour and sparkle at its finest!

One of my favorites is the Midnight Reverie Statement Necklace. The icy crystal clusters arranged in frost-like patterns gleam in teal, tanzanite, and aqua--a luxurious combination! I also love everything about the Celestial Frost Stud Earrings and Bracelet. The subtle, yet feminine, color palette is breathtaking for any special occasion (especially a wedding!)

This time of the year, it's truly okay to "Let It Go" and channel your inner Anna & Elsa with these exceptionally-crafted jewels (how can you not think of Disney Princesses and Frozen when looking at these regal pieces!) Stop by my Chloe + Isabel Online Boutique this month, and give the gift of light...today, tomorrow and always!