90’s Inspired Galentine’s Day

Galentine’s has become a holiday that I am known for. Every year I gather my best girls and celebrate each other. It is always a girly affair complete with yummy food, all things pink and an unique theme. This year I decoded to channel the younger days in our lives. That time in life when we were giving valentine’s to everyone in our class, spreading love all over. After all “girls just wanna have fun” so bring in the 90’s! Today I will be sharing highlights and DIY tips on how our 90’s gathering came to be.

Food:

We planned the food as a nostalgic tribute to sleepovers that we all had. Basically, all junky delicious treats.

  • PIZZA!
  • Laffey taffy
  • cosmic brownies
  • rock candy
  • A chocolate fountain with all the dippings
  • Kool-Aid punch
  • M&M’s
  • Popcorn
  • Cheese Puffs
  • Welcome drink – cotton candy and champagne poured as guest arrived

Decor:

I wanted to make sure that the 90’s were very present in the room, so the décor was a huge part of this event. Some DIY like the tissue paper backdrop on the snack table and the 90’s prints of Friends, fresh prince and the breakfast club. I always utilize fresh flowers at my events. for this I went very simple, pink spray roses and regular white and red blooms from Trader Joe’s. For a fun touch, I print hearts with famous 90’s couples and stuck them in the arrangements. who doesn’t love a call back to Cory and Topanga? Don’t forget a fun photo back drop. I loved our pink tassel wall with conversation heart banners from Party City. Last but not least, we had to throw in some festive heart shaper plates and straws. P.S. if you have some authentic items like Beanie Babies, Play- Dough or a game boy, put that out for décor, everyone will love the flash back.

Dress code and activities:

To really get in the spirit I requested that all guest dress in their favorite 90’s attire, this could be anything from hot pants, work out wear or crimped hair and scrunchies. My girls did great! As for activities, we played a few games to get people moving around and into the 90’s zone.

  • Find the heart – 25 hearts hidden throughout the house
  • Pink Elephant – Our spin on the classic Christmas game, white elephant
  • 90’s TV trivia
  • Never have I ever BINGO – 90’s questions such as ” never have I ever owned a blow up piece of furniture” if you have you would mark your BINGO card accordingly.

All games ended with a bottle of wine with a 90’s pun label such as “pairs well with 90’s jams” for larger crowds it may help to have smaller activities available as well like play dough station or make your own Valentine.

All and all the purpose of Galentine’s is to celebrate your girls and the love of friendship. Raising a glass to you and all your gals this Galentine’s day!

-MB

Valentine’s looks for 2021

Last year I wore a beautiful dress, heels and had a full look for Valentine’s day. Out and about around town for dinner and dessert. This year might look different for a lot of couples. No matter how you are celebrating this year, I hope these looks inspire your own Valentine’s day style. No matter if you are staying in or hitting the town!

Professional proper:

Give off proper vibes on your date this year by adding a white button up with something fun like leather shorts to give your look some spice. Not to mention looking incredibly chic.

Girly girl:

Cozy in an oversized pink sweater paired with jeans and head band completes a cute and cozy look for date night at home or out and about.

All dolled up:

Extra blush, mile long lashes and a show stopper mini dress will make your man drool. Loving this mini dress from Modcloth. Could not be more perfect for that adorable meets femininity look.

Boho beauty:

I personally love a tea length of calf length skirt! Comfort without the fuss of a maxi skirt. These button front skirts pair well with over sized cropped sweaters or a simple T.

Lux lounge:

Who say that staying home has to be sweat pants and leggings? Try something a little silkier for this Valentine’s. Dying this rose gold look from Lulu’s for a little something special.

No matter what your plans are this Valentine’s, I hope these sample looks inspire your own special look. Struggling with what to wear for special events? Have you considered hiring a stylist? For more information on personal wardrobe styling and shopping services fill out the form below.

-MB

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Valentine’s gifts: spread love locally

If you love or hate Valentine’s day, chances are there is still someone in your life who would like a little something on this romantic day. If you know me, you know that I LOVE love, so naturally I love the holiday that is all about love. For me, it is more than just giving a gift to your husband or boyfriend. I think back to grade school when everyone would make or give valentines to everyone in the class. Spreading love and smiles from a young age has really stuck with me. Now that I am a grown lady with a husband of my own, I like to keep the same mentality. After all, it is about making people that you love, feel that love with a small gesture. No matter who you’re shopping for, I hope this guide helps you treat those special people in your life. With so many small businesses still struggling as we enter 2021, I wanted to make a point to feature all unique gifts and experiences local to RVA in the guide this year.

Experiences:

River City Food Tours –  Church Hill Food Tours will help you experience the best food Church hill, or other areas of RVA , has to offer.

At home treats – Goody Goody is doing all kinds of Val/Galentine’s treats, including hot chocolate bombs, fondue sets, edible massage and body dust and so much more!

The gift of style -Know someone who could use a little help with their wardrobe? Give the gift of a personal wardrobe stylist. Services include personal shopping, closet clean outs, special events shopping, and more

Romantic dinner – Treat your sweetheart to a romantic private dinner from Edibles by Lisa. Choose from three options, all including some yummy sweetheart punch. Order until February 11, 2021 at www.ediblesbylisa.com

Staycation – The Virginia Cliffe Inn is offering a Valentine’s day weekend getaway special

Date night gift sets – Bring home the romance from Velvetspaunlimited.com with their date night gift set including strawberries, wine and soap of your choosing.

Local support:

To go bag – Courthouse Creek Cider is creating cider and cupcake gift bags with Vanilla and Bourbon, and Cider bloody Mary kits with Back Pocket Provisions mix! All wrapped up and ready to go with a cute/clever Valentine’s day tag.

A Valentine’s Day boudoir shoot – Spoil your spouse with seductive images from Precious Images photography. Professional book and professional makeup artist included in your booking.

A growler from his favorite brewery

Handcraft pearl jewelry – Shower her with local beauty and pearls from KoDesigns. What woman doesn’t love jewelry? For Dirty Blonde Stylist followers use code VDay10 for 10% off!

Sweets and treats – The Sweetest Thing will be offering a sweetheart box including a pair of cupcakes, cookies, truffles, chocolate-covered strawberries, and bite-sized cheesecakes. YUM!

Local artistry – Give the gift of art that will last forever from Painting in Pearls

Personalized portraits – Celebrate your beauty with Amanda Miles Photography and a Simply. You. Portrait session.

Gifted RVA Box – $120.00-$80.00 Choose from a variety of themes that all scream RVA. From local coffee to stay-cation, there is something that will surely fit your Richmond asthetic.

Under $30:

Hot Coco Bombs – River City Sweets is offering hot chocolate bombs and decorate-your-own Valentine’s Day cookie kits.

Conversation heart bath bombs – Loving these sweet bombs from Coco Fiona Co. Perfect for the lady in your life.

DIY candle kits – Bring out your crafty side with this adorable candle kit from Art Factory Play Cafe & Party Place!

Custom treat boxes- Shop these gorgeous treat boxes for your loved one, pick from six different styles to best fit your love.

Candle and wax melt bundles – Festive candles to set the mood from It’s Your Light, all hand-poured right here in RVA

Sassy Bee Big Spoon Little spoon pillowcases – Add that a little love to your bedding with these cute pillowcases.

For your Galentine:

RVA Brew Crew brewery tour – Galentine’s rides all weekend. It’s a whole weekend (starting Thursday 2/11) of ladies celebrating ladies! 2/13 is sold out but other days still have availability for private tours!

At home wine tastings – Choose from a varity of unique wines to bring home for your own tasting. Consult with an expert and place your custom order at WineShop at Home.

Indoor Galentine’s Day picnic – Host your girls to an indoor picnic from HLS parties galore. includes linens, cutlery, charcuterie board and wine and so much more!

Events:

Soulmate Shuffle 5k– run-on-your-own 5k event that comes with a pair of conversation heart socks and more. Perfect opportunity to support a nonprofit and stay active with friends.

I hope this guide makes it easy and fun to shop for your Valentine this year. Support your local business and continue to spread the love!

-MB

Five Stylist Services

When most people first meet me they think I am a hair stylist. I am here to set the record straight. The Dirty Blonde Stylist is a lifestyle company that was created from a love of fashion and style. One of my key services to the every day woman is fashion and wardrobe styling. Most people don’t know what this entails or think that a service like this is not attainable. Wrong! I am here for the everyday woman who may struggle with clothing or putting together looks everyday. My services and prices are tailored for you! Today I want to give you a small taste of what I can do for you.

The Closet Clean Out

An overwhelming task to do by yourself, but I am here to help. Starting with everyday all the way to those piece we don’t wear for years. I want you to really see what you have or don’t have, what you need and don’t need any longer. This is almost always the first step to a full styling makeover

In house styling

Sometimes all that is needed is a fresh eye on the things you already have. Spending a few hours together can lead to some beautiful luxe that can be worn all year. You don’t always need something new you just need a new perspective.Spending a few hours together can lead to some beautiful luxe that can be worn all year. You don’t always need something new you just need a new perspective.

Virtual styling

During a pandemic everything changed, including our wardrobe. If you were still interested in investing in yourself during this time virtual styling might be a great option for you. Via zoom we can go through your closet, put together outfits, and even still do shopping training. A pandemic can’t stop style.

Special occasion style

Some of my clients only need help for particular moments in life. Maybe you are the mother of the groom I need something to wear to the wedding. Let me bring you options that will be perfect for your special occasion.

Full service make over

For those who are ready to make an investment in themselves, this is such a rewarding service. Starting from scratch all the way to a confident and empowering wardrobe. Clean, shop, fit, style all for you and your confidence!

Celebrate the yourself this year and get the gift of style! Styling isn’t just for celebrities or Instagram models, it’s for you! Great style is just a click away, send me an email at Thedirtyblondestylist@gmail.com to start your style journey today!

-MB

How to give yourself a fresh start in 2021

Recently I asked myself, “what makes a new year new?” Is it just habit for this time of year? What makes January 1 more than just another day?

Each day has the power to hold whatever weight we put on it. Christmas, Anniversaries, and birthdays are all just “another day” but to you they hold value and meaning that you celebrate. New years day is no different, the clock passes midnight and our fresh start begins. After a year like 2020, I have to wonder, is it wise to claim the year as “your year”? So how do we give our selves a fresh start after a year that was so difficult on each of us?

The new year is always associated with “new shiny different change “after 2020 I think we are all looking forward to a change. Retailers are all too happy to help us change you won’t find any clearance athletic wear. Calendars and planners our top sellers. Retailers will have you think that the goals for the new year are getting organized, getting fit, and getting stylish. I can’t disagree, all of my resolutions each year have something to do with these three categories. Another frequent resolution is to save money. Stores are all too happy to help you break this resolution by quickly buying new storage bins, the best new leggings, and then a fabulous dress to celebrate your weight-loss efforts.

Today I want to share a few ways to stick to your rations without spending little to no money. Bring the “new” into the new year with these three easy steps!

Clean out

Attack your closet by yourself or with the help of a professional stylist. Chances are you will find new pieces to get rid of. Things you haven’t worn in over a year or things that are no longer compatible with your life. Maybe last year you were a new mom, so you have a lot of oversized or maternity pieces. Part ways and make room for the new! Best part about a closet clean out is being able to sell things at consignment shops or on marketplace. Not to mention all the space and hangers you have gained!

Organized

Since “the home edit “became huge on Netflix, the container store and organizing is on everyone’s to do list. Before you run out and buy $300 worth of containers and boxes, start with what you have. Start in one space at a time, maybe under your bathroom sink is first. Pull everything out get rid of the expired or almost empty items, then group like items together. Chances are you already have enough containers to handle what actually needs to be stored or can make do with what you have. Of course, if needed, take a quick trip to the store to get the organizational supplies you need for only that area. Resist the temptation to overspend.

Re-arrange 

It is amazing what you can make feel new just be putting it somewhere different. If you are tired for of your home space after all these months of working at home, shift the flow of your room. Move furniture around, change up the layout of the drawers and cabinets. You will be surprised how “new” things can feel just by being in a different place. Not to mention, this is a chance to try something different without spending any money.

If you are looking for a little help getting started on your new year journey, I would love to help! Fill out the form below to get started.

-MB

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Holiday Sparkle

As many of my friends know, my wardrobe literally sparkles. I love sequins, rhinestones, and of course glitter. Dolly Parton has really shown me the way. Some people may think it is tacky for over the top but to me it is all about confidence. Let’s face it, people are going to look at you when the sun hits you and you just start to shine like the star you are! Don’t shy away from sparkle especially in a year that has been so dull. Brighten up your Christmas wardrobe with these simple or dramatic ways.

Sparkles from head to toe – Just go for it! I am obsessed with a full sequin cocktail dress. Especially this one from Kohl’s!

A splash of glitz – If you are more confident in a more conservative look, throw a pop of sparkle down to your shoes.

Sequin separates – I love this pale pink top and skirt from Lulus for the main purpose of versatility. High waisted jeans and the top when I am feeling less confident or a simple white top when I want to tone it down. Either way you are sure to shine!

Catch your eye from across the room – throw some sparkle on those eyes! Subtle as you may think, people will surely notice the extra effort to look festive.

Hair that shines – head bands and festive barrettes are a trendy part of any outfit this year. Simple touches like this can really turn heads at any holiday party.

No matter how you celebrate this year, I hope your confidence and your look shines! If you are looking to give the gift of style this year, I would love to help! Drop your informtion below to get started.

-MB

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The Dirty Blonde Stylist Gift Guide

Every year I like to put together The Dirty Blonde Stylist gift guide. A combination of local and easy order gifts to help you though this Christmas season. This year I wanted to divide the list into categories, Home (our new most visited place) Style (self care and beauty) and Celebrations (entertaining and toasting the good times). I hope this guide helps make your shopping easy and painless this year.

Home

Grow your library with this deeply personal and “couldn’t put it down” style biography from Matthew McConaughey. – $18.71

Custom watercolor home painting – $54.00

If you haven’t seen the show on Netflix you are missing out! These two are so funny, sweet and of course organized. Give your home a update with these handy organizing tips from The Home Edit, Life – $17.10

Greet your guests with a southern style front door mat. Perfect for any year round cowgirl! – $38.50

My favorite hometown candles has a Christmas scent that will fill your house with Christmas cheer! Sassy Bee, neighborhood candle – $27.95

Snuggle season is here and what better than a snuggly blanket for your cozy pleasure. – Blanket $79.00

I have this hanging every year for Christmas. A simple reminder to keep that child like sense of wonder around the holidays. Smallwood’s pieces are frequent throughout my home year round. Get yours today. Wall hanging – $45.00

Style

Sent from a cloud to be worn any time of day! Skims cozy lounge pants – $88.00

Taking self care one step further than a regular face mask. Patchology eye mask – $35.00

The perfect stocking stuffer for the beauty queen in your life. I love practical gifts like this, I need blenders but never want to spend money on them. 6 pack of Beauty Blender sponges. – $18.00

When masks are all the rage, add the perfect accessory! Never misplace your mask again with this chic monogram chain. Mask chain – $21.56

For Christmas and beyond, these Sugarfix earrings will tie up your look with a bow. Earrings – $12.99

If you are looking for a little splurge this year, why not go for this Fossil smart watch! I love the sleek design and lightweight face. Smart watch- $295.00

Anyone who knows me, knows I love my Lush Scrubee, he makes the list every year! – Lush Scrubee -$9.25

Add a little sparkle to your style with these glittery mules from Lulus. Don’t be afraid to shine like the star you are! – Shoes $31.00

Celebrations

Everyone needs a fancy glass to toast those special moments. I am loving these glasses from Crate and Barrel. Champagne glasses – $11.95

Set of hair clips sure to brighten up your holiday style!- Set of clips $16.00

I am so obsessed with this creativity! Check out these beautiful pieces by Stephanie Roberts!

I love giving a bottle of bubbles to anyone at the holidays. This bottle is not only tasty but will also look fabulous on a bar cart for any party. – Champagne $24.95

Haven’t you seen those beautiful boards on Facebook and Pinterest? Make your own those Christmas season with this handy book from Tasty. Cookbook $22.46

Serve your guests there appetizers on these adorable plates from Pottery Barn. Appetizer plates – $35.00

I often celebrate special occasions with fresh sweets. Pull your sweet creations from the oven with this adorable kitchen set from Kate Spade – Kitchen set $35.00

I stole this idea from Reese Witherspoon, she said that she always gives a cake plate, because no one is unhappy at the site of cake. I couldn’t agree more! Cake plate – $38.00

I hope you find that perfect gift for that special someone this year. I f you are still lost, consider giving the gift of style to someone you love. My personal wardrobe styling and closets organizing services are just a click away. Fill in the blanks below so we can get started!

Merry Christmas one and all!

-MB

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Thankful and Grateful

2020 was hardly the year of good fortune for most people. We were putting up Christmas lights in March to bring back some joy to the sad situation. Now that it is getting close to Christmas again, people seem all to happy to jump right to Christmas and simply go through the motions of Thanksgiving. I can hardly blame them, this year has been tough and Christmas by definition brings joy. I for one, do not like to skip major holidays. I believe that Thanksgiving is still important and needs to be recognized, even in the most chaotic years. I challenged myself this year to come up with 30 things that I am thankful and grateful for. I challenge you to do the same.

  1. My husband and our marriage
  2. My sweet puppy, who greets me everyday with a smile
  3. Our home, that I continue to work and thrive from
  4. My family and their endless support for me
  5. Me and my families’ health, that’s a big one this year
  6. The Dirty Blonde Stylist and her continued growth
  7. All of my Brides and clients this year who have had faith in me
  8. Classic country tunes that lift me from a funk or a rut in my day
  9. The power of kindness
  10. Having the abilities to run my business from the comfort of our home
  11. Lush face masks, they have saved my skin from mask acne
  12. All of the appliances in our house that work
  13. All the items in my closet that sparkle, they always make me smile
  14. My faith in God
  15. The ability to see the positive before the negative
  16. My clients face when they see their wedding reception or their general happiness for what I have helped create
  17. The love that my husband and I share
  18. The strength and spirit I feel from my angel father
  19. The relationship I have with my sister
  20. My ride for die friends who have been with me for so long
  21. The adventure I have still managed to find this year without much travel
  22. Compliments from strangers that lift your spirit
  23. My creativity that helps me organize, restructure and move forward
  24. My phone that lets me work and keep in touch anywhere
  25. All the fabulous shoes I have that give me such confidence
  26. The gift of time and time together brought to us by the pandemic
  27. Audio books, my 2020 obsession
  28. All the negativity that I am able to let go
  29. How easy it is to bring our family together
  30. The delicious food that we share on Thanksgiving day

I challenged you to look into your life and find at least 30 things to be thankful for this year. While there have been many disappointments, let downs and losses in 2020, don’t ever forget the good things. No matter how small, hope lives inside each of them.

Happy Thanksgiving!`

-MB

Wedding Kisses

Is it just me or has lipstick become obsolete? Masks have totally interfered with my lipstick style. out of habit I have applied my favorite shade with the hope that when I take off my mask it will still be there. Alas, I’ve mostly ended up with kiss prints and smudges on the inside of my mask.

This inspired me to hunt down some of the best long lasting, blushing bride lip stick/gloss for your big day! Grab your ideal shade by clicking on the links below. Everything from drug store finds to the luxury lipsticks to complete your look.

Bare – Kylie Cosmetics – $27.00

Maybelline – Lifter gloss – $6.99

Charlotte Tilbury – Matte – Gracefully Pink – $34.00

MAC – CreamSheen Lipstick – Peach Blossom – $19.00

NARS – Audacious Lipstick – Dayle – $32.00

As a wedding planner, my mind is constantly focused on how I can help the bride, groom and their family. If there was ever a day in her life when she should feel like the queen she is, it is her wedding day. My details go all the way down to the bride feeling confident in her lipstick.

If you are still looking for your day of coordinator or full service wedding planner, I would love to work with you. Send me an email at Thedirtyblondestylist@gmail.com or fill out the form below for ll the details.

-MB

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Home Sweet House Warming

This year has been a crazy time all around but some people even added moving into the 2020 mix! This year proved to be a great time to invest in your future if your budget allowed. For all those movers and shakers who leaped into their next adventure, it’s our time to celebrate them. I teamed up with the fabulous Michele from Honey Grove Homes to get some insight on what new homeowners love to receive!

For The Foodies

Not every move is to a new city or new town. For the food is in your life put together a classic basket with a custom cheese or cutting board from Etsy. A bottle of olive oil, cheese knives, and a nice spice scented candle to complete the basket. As Michele says “You can never go wrong with a good bottle of wine” this is a great addition or substitute for this basket.

For The Sentimental Ones

I love presenting close friends and family with something sentimental like a scrapbook. Add a few pictures and captions to start off the book then leave empty pages for them to fill with new memories in their new home. A great addition to this gift is pretty pens, stickers, or film for a Polaroid camera that you know they have.

The Practical One

When you first move-in sometimes you just need those basic pieces. Give your loved ones a great starter kit for their cleaning and home safety. I always prefer a lemon scent as an homage to my housewarming party theme “ lemon fresh”. Fill a decorative basket with sponges, disinfecting wipes, a cozy plant, and maybe some air freshening spray. They will surely think of you the first time they have to clean up a mess in their home and are ready to go!

The Decorator

We all have those friends who love decorating and interior design. For these special people in our lives , I always think a great coffee table book is such a good go to! Wrapping up some thing like “100 Unforgettable Dresses” “Elements of style” or “YSL, Icons of fashion” along with a candle or sweet treat makes for an instantly classic gift. Don’t let your candle fall short and follow Michele with her favorite, Volcano from Capri Blue.

The Fashionista

In a digital world there is still something still so great about getting something in the mail. Role up their favorite magazine around a bottle of wine or champagne. In the card, reveal that they will be getting a years worth of that same magazine.

I hope these tips, baskets, and gift ideas will help you celebrate all the fabulous people in your life. when you’re looking to make your next move, give Michele at Honey Grove Homes a call. She is a fabulous realtor here in VA who will be with you every step of the home buying process!

-MB