For all my fashionistas out there, I am excited to share my experience at Couture For A Cure 2016, where fashion meets fundraising. The star-studded event was held at the Van Andel Institute. Walking into the Institute turned runway show venue, every room and hall was filled with outstanding food, drinks, and decor to set the stage.


Guests were able to enter a chance auction for items like treatments from The Crown Jewel Spa & Salon, an Amway Grand Plaza Hotel Stay, and an ARTISTRY Skincare Gift Basket. All the proceeds from the event benefit the biomedical research and science education at Van Andel Institute.

As people started to make their way to their seats and the lights dimmed, out walked Carol Van Andel to introduce the guest of honor. Her name was Trina Taylor and she is a woman living with stage 4 colorectal cancer, but she is so much more. She is a mom, a model, and she is showing others how to live life to the fullest in the face of adversity. Trina was discovered when she posted a selfie to Facebook after chemotherapy took her hair. A lady named Luna Joachim saw her picture and asked if she would walk in her fashion shows. Trina went from cancer patient to international model and she now lives by the motto, “Make Memories on Purpose.” Trina continues to dedicate her life serving as a role model to her son and others going through unimaginable circumstances.





Trina opened the fashion show and from start to finish, it was nothing short of fabulous. I'm so happy that I was able to attend such a great event that supports an even greater cause.

Thanks,
Katie


* select photos found on Van Andel Institutes Facebook and shots taken by Brian Kelly Photography & Film

Hey everyone,

This month I am giving some local love to one of my favorite places...Otto + Grand salon! For the past few years I have been getting my hair done by the one and only Cat Crocetto Visokay. She is the proud owner of Otto + Grand and one hell of a stylist.

This salon has it all....Hair, makeup, waxing/sugaring, eyelash and hair extensions. I will (with no shame) admit that I love getting pampered and sometimes can be very particular about my style. What I love about the staff here is their honesty, tremendous skill and fun attitude. Each stylist has their own unique touch and will let you know what works and (sometimes won't work) for your hair. I have gotten a wide range of services done here and each time I'm extremely happy with my result. From blunt cuts to long extensions, the options are endless!

Katie recently chopped her hair and it looks AMAZING thanks to Morgan at Otto + Grand. When taking the plunge to get multiple inches off your hair you want to ensure that the end result is what you want. Looks pretty fabulous if you ask me!


Their environment portrays a rustic yet chic vibe all stocked with wonderful Arrojo products. This product line has saved my hair. I always leave the salon refreshed and full of life.


When I first started seeing Cat a few years ago, my hair was fried and extremely damaged. Flat irons were my absolute best friend every single day. With some trips to Otto + Grand and being educated on the right products, my hair has never been healthier.


I have sent multiple colleagues and friends to this fabulous place. I always receive nothing but positive feedback about their experience and end results!

West Michigan friends, please check them out! Best part is...you can schedule online. 

More to come,
Danielle



*some images used from the Otto + Grand Facebook site. Linked for reference.

Fall Recipe Roundup

September is here people and I couldn’t be more excited! Time for soup, sweaters, and scarves..and more soup! Although I’m writing this post and it’s currently 90º outside, I am determined to kick off my favorite season, starting with some amazing fall recipes. I’ve listed everything from melt-in-your-mouth breakfast goodies to spiced cocktails. These are just a few of the recipes I’ll be trying out this fall!

1. Apple Cider Mojitos: FINALLY! A cocktail that combines my favorite summer drink with my fall one. This is a perfect cocktail to transition into the colder weather months when you’re desperately holding onto summer!

2. Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots: My mouth is watering as I’m thinking about this fall favorite. At the end of a long day, there is nothing better than to walk through your door and be filled with the smell of pot roast in the oven!

3. Pumpkin Crunch Cake: You can’t go wrong with anything pumpkin or cake, so I’d say this dessert will be a hit at any family gathering or party.

4. Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad: Again, this is another great recipe to transition your favorite summer side dish into fall.

5. Butternut Squash & Sausage Stuffed Shells: I love the idea of taking a classic recipe and putting a new spin on it for the colder months. Its a great way to change up our favorite dishes into new ones that are sure to please!

6. Pumpkin French Toast: enough said.


Thanks,
Katie

*All photos were found on Pinterest and recipe websites/posts

Hi everyone-

Thought I would share a little DIY that is extremely easy and inexpensive. I thought my office could use a little "pick me up" and this canvas art is just the thing to brighten up any space. Fruit prints are pretty popular and something that adds a little fun. You can use this for your office, bedroom, bathroom, whatever you please.

More to come,
Danielle

Steps: 

1. Cut the fruit right down the middle. Make sure your cuts are as even as possible. This allows for even stamping
2. Dab the lemons on a paper towel as best as possible to get rid of any juice. Let them sit for a little bit (15-20 minutes)
3.  Determine how you want to space them on your canvas. I did three rows (not the most even) but think about how you want it to look prior stamping
4. Dip your lemon into the ink. Fully press down and repeat until you see the ink is all over the fruit. The lemon I used still was wet so I had to press down a few times into the ink.
5. Take the lemon and press it on the canvas for about 2-5 seconds. Push around the edges so all the fruit touches the canvas.
6. Repeat as desired and let dry.

Here is video for your enjoyment as well!