Welcoming 2017

/

To be honest, I don't know how I made it to 2017.

Last year was filled with so much grief, wounds thought healed cut open again, and an abundance of sleepless night. The holidays were infused with some joy but mostly heartache and confusion, and to be honest, the invitation to 2017 didn't seem too promising. That isn't to say there wasn't happiness and joy in 2016, but there was a definitive sadness and finality to it all.

Thankfully, some wonderful things did happened. The blog got a facelift, we grew to be a team, and wonderful connections were made with artisans and entrepreneurs and savvy business women alike. The idea of The Guide expanded from a singular focus to a mission of sorts, and the reach we now have is lovely and continuously growing.

The past few weeks were spent in hopeful recharge, but as we'll talk about through the next couple months, sometimes pushing forward is the best that can be done given the current circumstance. I am eternally grateful to our loyal readers and supporters, and am so thankful to have this little home to share ideas, inspiration, and the pieces that make life worth celebrating.

I look forward to sharing, for my team to share, and to hopefully hear some of your voices on how you make the bad parts good again and the low spirits elevated.

All my love to you.
It's great to be back. XxEmily.

NYE Outfit Inspiration - 3 Ways!

/

Because getting dressed on NYE is really hard sometimes. 

I always struggle to find the perfect outfit come New Year's Eve. I say I'll plan it in advance and end up just tearing through my closet for anything sparkly. This year, I'm lucky enough to be celebrating the wedding of dear friends and get to wear the prettiest black dress (see it in Glamour below!). Not everyone is inspired by the same look, so this way you can wear what suits your style most, or mix and match, for your unique NYE celebration. I centered all of these looks around black, strappy heels, because who doesn't have those in their closet? P.S. if you don't, they are the best staple. Cheers! 

Edge

1. Faux leather leggings. 
2. Off the shoulder top. 
3. Strappy heels. 
4. Choker, bib necklace duo. 
5. A cross body with as much personality as you.

+ What are you wearing Saturday night? Share in the comments below!

Links I Love - Happy Holidays!

/

It's a fabulous weekend for celebrating. 

Yesterday, we shared one of our favorite wintry cocktails, and it is perfect for the holiday weekend upon us. Whether you're celebrating Hannukah or Christmas, let this be a reminder to come together, to cherish those we have in our lives, and to celebrate accomplishments big and small. It has been an awfully emotional and chaotic year. 2017 has to be better, right?!

Here are nine links we loved while searching all things the holidays. Enjoy! 

1. The most gorgeous (and seemingly delicious) wintry punch. 

2. Ten wonderful holiday rituals. 

3. How to pack up and go on vacation.

4. Ten tips for creating the perfect entertaining environment. 

5. Best home workouts for living rooms and hotels alike. 

6. The year 2016 in pictures. 

7. A beautiful movie night.

8. An amazing guide to the best reads of 2016. 

9. Three quick DIYs for the perfect party wardrobe. 

Have an excellent weekend. Happy Holidays! Xx.