Impressionism is one of my favorite art movements because of how romantic and sweet the artwork from that era is, from Renoir to Monet. I’ve always thought it would translate beautifully into a wedding theme and, now, 100 Layer Cake is featuring a French Impressionist wedding shoot that looks so elegant. From the lacy wedding dress (how gorgeous is the back?) to the decor’s pastel/watercolor palette, this look would make for a beautiful springtime celebration.

Wouldn’t you love to escape from wherever you are, head to a cabin in the middle of nowhere with your favorite person, and just disappear for a few days?

{via}

It seems I’ve been hearing quite a bit about great LA hikes lately. Back when I lived in Arizona, I had a strong aversion to hiking, mainly because you don’t get a whole lot of visual diversity in the desert — and it’s really hot. But in California? Now, that’s an idea!

So far, I’ve really only done one true hike in Southern California and that was to the lovely waterfall in Eaton Canyon Park, which I highly recommend. That’s why I’m really excited to have discovered the Nobody Hikes in LA blog, which not only has an excellent name, but also some really great-sounding hike ideas.

Maybe if weather permits, I can even try one this weekend! What about you guys? Do you have any secret — or well-known — trails that you frequent?

{Photo via Nobody Hikes in LA}

Chances are you’ve seen some or all of these iconic photographs at some point in your life but had no idea who took each one or what the photographer looked like. Wonder no more: San Diego-based photographer Tim Mantoani has a new book titled Behind Photographs that showcases Polaroid portraits of famous photographers posing with their most recognized images. So awesome.

{via}

An easy, cat-eye visual for whenever you want to create this eyeliner look.

(Or see a video tutorial instead.)

Big news everyone! I’ve decided to join the circus — circus school that is. Did you guys know that such a thing exists? Thank goodness for Groupon, because I don’t think I could live with myself if this exercise craze came and went without me. For those like me (still catching up and totally intrigued), here’s the gist: Founded by a Cirque du Soleil veteran, Cirque School offers classes in acrobatic skills like trapeze, fabric and rope tricks that also combine Pilates techniques for a totally awesome workout. No special skills required!

Considering how cool this is, the prices are pretty reasonable — about $25 a class. I can’t wait to sign up for my first aerial class. (Don’t worry mom and dad; I’m not actually planning to join the circus when this is all said and done. However the jury’s still out on whether I’m moving to Costa Rica to work at a sloth sanctuary.) Who’s with me?

[Photo via Bonfire of My Vanity]

I’m absolutely loving these adorable two-piece playsuits designed by the owner of my all-time favorite vintage clothing shop. They’re the kind of outfits that can’t exist in my mind without an accompanying destination and mood. These ones make me think “south of France,” “carefree.”

My only concern is whether I have the guts to go out and about in what is essentially a bra and skirt :) What do you guys think? New summer trend or too … erm … gutsy?

Check out more of Shareen’s custom vintage looks on her blog.

[Photos via Shareen Now]

I have to admit that I’m really bad with my money. I try to be reasonable about monthly expenditures and think through the big-ticket splurges, but besides that, I don’t know much about managing money. Investments, retirement savings, and taxes? Zilch. And my biggest nightmare of all? My student loans. Funding college and grad school = a bajillion different loans, passwords, due dates, interest rates, and accounts to take care of. Eek!

If you’re in the same shoes as me, don’t worry; check out LearnVest. I found this site through DailyCandy and it’s such a refreshing take on helping women manage their money. It’s free to become a member and there’s a ton you can do on the site: sign up for bootcamp sessions that walk you through investing and budgeting, link up all of your financial accounts (students loans, personal banking, etc.) and manage them in one place, get tips that are customized for where you are in life (recent grad, expecting a baby, trying to get out of debt) and more. There are a couple of features on the site that do cost a fee, such as personal financial planning with an advisor, but otherwise you can navigate the rest of the site for free and start organizing your spending habits so they reflect your future goals. It’s awesome! And, just in time for tax season. :)

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Have a great weekend, everyone! xx

{photos via here & here}

Fresh, chunky guacamole and melted cheese on crusty bread? GIVE IT TO ME.

This recipe would be so fun to make on a lazy weekend afternoon.

For the purpose of sharing my experiences and encouraging you all to visit this amazing country, here are just some of the highlights. In order of appearance …

Cartagena: A beautiful, vibrant and bustling colonial city contained within castle-like walls.

Santa Marta: While there’s less area to explore than in Cartagena, the teeny touristy area still feels relatively undiscovered by the masses and even more charming (don’t let the crowded beach fool you).

Taganga: Arriving in Taganga feels like stepping into a Cirque du Soleil performance. Hippy backpacker types abound, but the whole scene feels somehow intriguingly mysterious.

Parque Tayrona: The small part that I saw seemed like a great way to “rough it” with a little bit of comfort intact.

La Guajira: Words (and photos) can’t describe this magical place. You have to experience it for yourself. It’s not easy to get to, but believe me, it’s SO worth it.

Did you buy your plane ticket yet?