Dress shop for 2016? Yea.

Hey everyone, hope you had a lovely Christmas! Any Plans for New Year's eve? - As for us, we're going out to dinner, and even though we are not spending the 12 midnight out, we've made arrangements to dress up & have a nice dinner for two. So, you're probably wondering what I'm wearing.... Well, last year I purchased a sequin dress from ASOS for this New Year's 2015, strange?  Well, maybe. But it went on sale &  it's super cute! 

I figured why not let you in on this idea, get your next year's dress NOW....with all the last minute sales/deals, it's perfect timing!  ASOS is having a sale with up to 50% off on many items. Here are my sparkly selections for 2016.  I can't get enough of sequin on New Year's....for some reason it just makes sense.  Have a great New Year!!

 



-post by jen ramos

 

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FOOD: The Best Hot Cocoa with Peppermint Marshmallows

Welcome Made By Girl readers! Jen from Pretty Eats sharing a sweet treat for the Holiday season. I've always been a fan, but this cocoa recipe will make it hard for you to say no to a second cup! Doubling up the chocolate is what takes this to the next level of decadence. The bonus? This cocoa recipe can be made vegan by simply using your favorite non-dairy milk and high quality vegan chocolate bar! To make this cozy treat special for the holidays, I've topped my mugs with peppermint and chocolate marshmallow snowflakes (easy recipe included below). Elegant, festive, and delicious, enjoy!


The Best Hot Cocoa Ingredients: makes 2 cups

• 2 1/2 c milk
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder
 • 1/4 c sugar
• 1/4 c dark chocolate bar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• pinch of sea salt




Directions:
• In a sauce pan, heat milk over medium-low heat.
• When milk is warm, gently whisk in cocoa, chocolate, sugar, and salt.
• When combined, remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
• Serve up in mugs and serve with marshmallows on top!


Homemade Marshmallows Ingredients: makes 10 2" marshmallows
 • 3/4 c sugar
• 1/3 c corn syrup
• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 c water
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1 tsp vanilla
• Cooking spray
• 1/4 c dark chocolate bar, shaved finely
• 2 candy canes, crushed
• 1/4 c white sugar




Directions:
• Spray a 9x9 baking dish with cooking spray. Line with parchment paper and spray again.
• In a kitchen mixer, combine 1/4 c water with gelatin. Allow to sit and soften for 5 minutes.
• In a saucepan, heat 1/4 c water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt to a boil. Stirring a bit, heat mixture to 238 F on a candy thermometer, about 5 minutes.
• Slowly pour sugar mixture into gelatin mixture, with the mixer on low.
• Raise speed to high, gradually, and mix until mixture has doubled in size (8 minutes or so). Add vanilla, and mix for 1 more minute.
• Pour mixture into baking dish and allow to sit until cool, at least 4 hours.
• When cooled, spray cookie cutters with cooking spray and cut as many marshmallows as you can.
 • Top marshmallows with whatever coatings you'd like, candy canes, chocolate, or sugar. Moisten with a damp paper towel before dipping in toppings, to insure they stick well.
• Store in an airtight container for up to one week



-images and post by jen olson


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Book Review: Adore Home Book

Loni Parker of the popular Australian online magazine, Adore Magazine, launched her first-ever design book and it's lovely! With about 185 pages of full color highlighting everything from living rooms to entryways to kids rooms & more....this book is a must-have. I love the thought she put into the (removable) cover using diagonal gold lines, which means it will look PRETTY on your coffee as well!  -  My favorite parts of the book are the ones I featured below..... such as the gorgeous dining table for four & the beautiful mustard colored velvet-sofa with an array of photos behind it.  How about the amazing loft covering two pages?!?

Oh...... how can I forget glimpses of my LOVE prints within some of the homes ....So happy about that!!! Sometimes design books fail, but this one is a winner for me. Why? Because it's full of color & inspiration....it's exactly what I look for when I shop for coffee table books. A book I'd be inclined to  open again & again.  If you're in the USA & want the book, you can only get exclusively via Hattan Home.

Otherwise, if you're in Australia, you can purchase it directly from the Adore website here.
I'm happy to say I love this book & it will be a part of my design book collection, thanks Loni!




















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JEN'S FESTIVE GIFT IDEAS: BEST FRIENDS

Have a BEST friend? A friend that you love going out to coffee with & telling all your secrets to? Today's Festive gift idea is for a special friend you enjoy spending time with & don't mind spending money on. Why? because they're always grateful.  Most of us have few of those, and for me personally, I can say my list is as short as 2 people.  This is for your Best-est friend..... don't forget her/him.

Hope these gifts inspire you to be more generous with those you LOVE. 



1. 'ever & ever. ' print via made by girl  2. chunky knit hat via net-a-porter  3. madewell leather monomgram tote 4. smith & colt nail polish 5. blah blah blah holiday ornament jcrew 6.  bliss knit sweater via jcrew 7. LUXE city guides 9. gold polka dot notebook via made by girl



-post by jen ramos



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JEN'S FESTIVE GIFT IDEAS: KIDDOS

Anyone know someone who is having a baby? If you do, then I pulled together some great gift ideas for you!  We're in the process of adoption & I admit (even though we a have a ways to go), I've purchased a couple of things, as I like to be hopeful. One thing I purchased is my favorite childhood book called Corduroy by Don Freeman.  - Have you read it?  Sweetest story ever for kids. 

I picture myself reading this book to my child as they smile & ask me questions about Corduroy....

Oh & don't forget the personalized prints we sell at Made By Girl. You can add any color & name you like! These are ideal for kids learning the alphabet + you can use them to teach kids how to spell their names too!!  Neat huh?  Happy Shopping!




1. | elephant rocker 2.  | aaron's apothecary sophie baby giraffe teether 3. | baby animal portraits via restoration hardware  4. | baby easy peasy boots via jcrew 5. | antique gilt wood letters 6. | personalized name baby artwork via made by girl  7. |  bonne annee one piece via jcrew 
 8. | Corduroy the book  9. | BABY one piece via ILY couture




-post by jen ramos


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Jen's festive Gift Ideas: Jesus Lover

For those of you (like myself) who are devoted to your faith and love Jesus, this post may inspire you. With so many faith-inspired t-shirts to choose from these days, I found a few sites i really love, like Walk in Love & Praise clothing. However, if you're not into wearing your faith on your body, how about at home on your walls? This awesome Jesus walking on water piece of art, would look amazing with a gold frame! I want it. 

However, if you know a married couple who considers their faith a top priority, then I would recommend the "Sacred Marriage" book by Gary Thomas. This book is one of the best marriage books written. Not even kidding. You will learn why God designed marriage & what it means. I also love my personal favorite, "How People Grow" by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend. This book is for the individual who wants to understand how to grow in their faith & how the bible helps that growth. This is by far one of the best books I've ever read, highly recommend it.



1. amazing grace tee 2. she is strong tee via made by girl 3. raise it up tee 4. faith hope love tee 5. sacred marriage book 6. how people grow book (one of the best) 7. fearfully & wonderfully made sweatshirt via walks in love  8. 'walk on water' jesus via reflections of christ


-post by jen ramos


 
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DESIGN: Holiday Tablescape Decor

Hello MBG readers, its Lisa with Gem Daily here with a holiday decor post! I just love the holiday season and LOVE holiday parties, they are the best way to get you in the spirit. And although I have never personally hosted a holiday party, it sure is fun to dream up the table scapes and decor. I'm thinking funky place card holders, lanterns hanging from the ceiling, mistletoe at the front door, the whole nine yards!

For some reason, I am also really loving the mixture of black, white and gold with the more traditional holiday red and green. It adds a little bit of sophistication and isn't too played out and
overdone.


8/ mistletoe ball via amazon 



-post by lisa fisbeck


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DESIGN: Holiday Table Inspiration

Hi Darlings, it's THIS time of the year again, the shopping fever, family time, party season and Christmas countdown!! I bet your can't wait for the break just like I do and you already have the tree out and trying to find the best table accessories to impress your guests! I gathered some beautiful festive tables inspirations and found the prettiest pieces to decorate your table top with! Hope you like it! Stay warm, kisses, Monika


 via Pinterest

via Pinterest

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JEN'S FESTIVE GIFT IDEAS: THE SUPER CHIC

Thank God it's Friday right?!  I need time to relax & spend quality time with my husband...but the upcoming Holiday parties may make it nearly impossible. How about you? What are you up to this weekend?

Speaking of Holidays, I've rounded up a list of SUPER CHIC gift ideas for you!  These are some of the coolest items out there. If you have a super chic friend or family member who likes stylish & chic items & maybe you want to impress them - how about one of these items below? I've included one of my Cocoa & Hearts original paintings.

Have a great weekend!!



1. |  lustre jewelry box by kelly wearstler 
2. |  'how to be Parisian wherever you are' book
3. | goatskin leather pen by GiGi NY
4. | gold +black kitchen knives via bodie & fou
5. | mini gold kiss via kelly wearstler & precision tray
6. | 11"x14" original art  - '15' floor' by jen ramos via cocoa & hearts
7. | BYREDO scented candle
8. | sophia webster heels via jcrew
9. | saint laurent card holder
10. | le zebre black pillow via arianna belle





-post by jen ramos


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FASHION: GIFTS FOR THE GIRLY-GIRL

Hello MadeByGirl readers! Sandra from Blasfemmes here bringing you gift ideas for the special ladies in your life that love all things feminine and lady-like.

It's that time of year again and I believe most of us are welcoming gift ideas so here are a handful of cute things and little luxuries. Whether you're looking for a little something for a friend or something a bit more luxurious for your sister there’s a little something here for everyone. Hope this guide will give you ideas, as for me I feel like treating myself to a few of these gifts.
MBG christmas gift guide



-post by sandra lopes




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JEN'S FESTIVE GIFT IDEAS: BLING LOVER

Hey everyone! Welcome to Wednesday! Another Festive Gift guide today.

Let's talk bling. 

BLING is always in. Pricey or not, nice jewelry complements an outfit. As for me, I have a thing for rings & bracelets. However, there are days I want to wear a nice necklace like the ones available at Scheid Industrial, they're simple, yet elegant.  They go with casual or dressy.....can be worn daily. I really enjoy jewelry that's versatile...don't you?!?   So, for those of you looking to gift jewels this Holiday, I gathered (8) cool & unique pieces I think you may like! Enjoy!


 2// the giving keys (cool custom pieces


 4// triangle diamond ring via anine bing

 5// tory burch bangle

 6// robert lee morris hammered stud earrings

 7//  kelly wearstler rings

8// mosaic ring by julie vos


-post by jen ramos



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Jen's Festive gift Ideas: Coffee Addict

Coffee Lovers.... YES, I'm talking to you.  

I put together a few coffee-related items that you may want to gift out to family or friends who love coffee. Or maybe for yourself? About four years ago a friend of mine gave me a Nespresso machine - and I still use it & love it!  BEST gift ever. In case you didn't know, HiLine coffee pods can be used on Nespresso machines. They have some delicious flavors, I highly recommend them as gifts to friends. They're a tad bit more budget friendly than the Nespresso pods for those looking to spend less!




 1. vertuoline 2. coffee, books & rain tee 3. milk forther via sur la table  4. HiLine coffee Pods 5. shaved chocolate topper via william sonoma 6. nespresso frother via macys 7. mug via kelly wearstler 8. mug via sur la table



-post by jen ramos







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Nespresso & MADE BY GIRL GIVEAWAY

If you LOVE coffee, then keep reading below.  Made By Girl is teaming up with Nespresso to GIVEAWAY this Vertuoline machine valued at $299!!!  What a cool Holiday gift no?!? This is an amazing machine & you don't really need a frother because it creates a beautiful crema in the cup as the coffee drips into it.  I own one of these,  and its's very high-tech. 

As Nespresso says, "The machine offers both freshly brewed Coffee & authentic Espresso with crema at the touch of a button, thanks to the revolutionary Centrifusion™and code reading extraction technology."  I gave away a machine last year as well, it was a lot of fun! So, one lucky winner this year will get this one! You ready? Details below.

It's super EASY to enter this giveaway - check it out:

WHAT DO YOU WIN?

(A total value of over $300!!!)

HOW TO ENTER?
  • It's simple. Have an Instagram account? All you have to do is REGRAM the picture below & use hashtag #madebygirl #nespresso  -  (to regram - save the pic below onto your phone - then just place into instagram as you would any other pic)
  • Be sure to follow @MADEBYGIRL on Instagram!!  USA only.  If you do not follow MADE BY GIRL, we cannot contact you!
DEADLINE: winner will be announced on December 15th via my instagram. 




-post by jen ramos


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DESIGN: HOLIDAY GIFTING

Hello there MBG readers! It's Lisa from Gem Daily with another dose of decor, especially for this freezing cold gift giving holiday season upon us.  I am one of those holiday gift givers that really loves to hunt for the perfect gift for someone and I really really love to gift wrap! There are so many amazing options out there that can transform a BORING present to something so PRETTY and unique that the recipient won't even want to open it up!

I especially love when the gift wrap isn't so literal and in-your-face holiday, like the super trendy marbled paper or a polka-dotted bow. As long as the components of your gift wrap are in holiday colors, you can totally pull together a combination that looks complete and finished.

Next time you grab that old roll of wrapping paper covered in candy canes and Christmas trees, splurge on some funky ribbon or bold glittered box to take your gift to the next level! xoxo


1// holiday card via paper source
2// twine via paper source
3// marbled paper via anthropologie
4// polka dot bow via inkyco
5// floral paper via rifle paper
6// glitter boxes via paper source
7// reindeer gift tags via inkyco
 
 
-post by lisa fisbeck
 
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FOOD: Autumn Cider Cocktails

Welcome Made By Girl readers! I'm Jen from Pretty Eats popping up with a jewel-toned
cocktail perfect for chilly nights, Cider Cocktails. Autumn's star of the season, a high quality
apple cider, elevates these drinks to a special occasion all on their own. I first take one of my
favorite Rye whiskeys, and let it sit with cinnamon sticks and fresh apple slices, then add it to ice
cold cider. A fun variation on this cocktail is to add sparkling cider instead! Either way you serve
it, this Autumn Cider Cocktail will bring some big Cheers!


Autumn Cider Cocktails
Ingredients: 4 cocktails
• 1 cup high quality Rye whiskey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 star anise
• 3 fresh apples
• 3 cups fresh apple cider
• 4 sugar cubes, if desired

Directions:
• In a lidded jar, combine Rye, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and 1 sliced apple. Allow to sit
for 1-2 days.
• Strain Rye mixture into a clean pitcher, discarding apple slices and spices.
• Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice, combine 1/2 cup spiced Rye with 1 1/2 cups cider.
Shake well / *if using sparkling cider, simply stir the cocktails, do not shake.
• Pour immediately into glasses (with a sugar cube, if desired), and enjoy!!
 








-post & photos by jen olsen


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Jen's Festive Gift Ideas: Model Wanna-BE

Today's Festive Gift Ideas are for the MODEL Wanna-Be women out there. You know who you are.

You LOVE all things stylish & dream of walking the runways someday....or even attending Fashion Week! You like all the newest trends & admire models like Gisele Bundchen & Kate Moss. You're probably no larger than a size 2 and you ONLY EAT FRUIT....Just kidding!! 

If this sounds like you, then I've put together these modelesque gift ideas that you might like!  All for YOU & your model WANNA-BE friends this Holiday - enjoy....






-post by jen ramos

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Jen's Festive Gift IDEAS: Pets

Hey everyone! Welcome back from your Holiday! We had a great Thanksgiving even though we were also in the middle of moving...but it gave us a few extra days to get things done in the new apartment!  Thankful about that.

Speaking of holidays, can you believe it's December already? Well, that means gift guides galore everywhere you look. I've decided to jump on the bandwagon & bring you some interesting Festive Gift Ideas (in case you're at a lost for what to shop for). There is no set schedule, but I'll be posting these every couple days or so until Christmas time.

So, lets' start with the PUPS.  I know our boxer Darla needs a new bed really bad.... I haven't decided which one yet. However, I really love this selection over at Bliss Home & Design.  What do you think?? Help me choose!



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DESIGN: DECORATIVE MIRRORS

Hi there lovelies, it's been a while but I am back now with new fresh posts for you, here on MadebyGirl!

I just move to a new apartment and constantly looking for some inspiration for my living room. What caught my eye were the amazing living room pictures featuring decorative mirrors as a part of the decor. There is so many ways to use them in the space but my favorite is to use few smaller mirrors set up like a gallery wall or a large statement piece in the center of the room. 

Have a look at the pictures below, so much prettiness going on in there!! And check my favorite statement mirrors selection below! xx Monika


Source : Domino











Source: Pinterest




-post by monika

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