Gift Guide: For Her

Giving gifts is one of my very favorite things to do! I absolutely love going to pick out special items that remind me of my friends or family, and around this time of year, we've all got a best girlfriend, sister, aunt, or coworker that's on our gift list.

Jewelry is one of my favorite things to gift friends, and recently, I've been into a fun statement earring, especially when it comes time to dressing up for the holidays. This gorgeous pair of earrings from Happiness Boutique are so pretty and fun. I've already worn them to a couple of events this season, garnering lots of compliments. The deep sapphire blue is so striking and a brilliant addition to a party dress or hostess outfit. I also picked up this pair. You can get 10% off your purchase sitewide through December 29th with the code: candiceelaineh

Shop more of my picks in the gift guide below! Whether it's a pretty piece of jewelry, a new lip color for the beauty maven, workout gear for your fitness friend, or something fun to delight your jet-setting girl on the go, this curated collection has her in mind! You may even find a few things to stuff in your own stocking...it's ok, I won't tell! ;)

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Merry & Bright

(Top: Marshalls, Denim: F21, Boots: Target, Ring: Berricle c/o, Necklace: Lilly Pulitzer, Earrings: F21, 

Mug: Anthropologie) 

Christmas is such a beautiful time of year, and I am always amazed at how quickly this holiday season flies by! It's so nice to enjoy a few moments to think and to take in the beauty of the cooler weather, twinkling lights, and all-around merriment. The sweet team at Berricle sent over this gorgeous, gem-encrusted tulip ring, and I have to admit it's quickly become a piece that's part of my everyday jewels. The intricate design and sparkling finish make it a perfect piece to gift to yourself or others. (gifting yourself a little something is totally allowed!)
 As I wrapped up some of my Christmas shopping the other day, I got to thinking, amidst the hustle & bustle of shopping, parties and get-togethers, it's easy to forget the true reason we celebrate, and that's the birth of Christ. It was such an unexpected, quiet entrance, and yet it held the weight of all eternity...sometimes I question why He chose such a humble beginning when all the world could have bowed at a moment's notice, but then I remember that He wasn't here to "make an entrance", but rather to walk among us, take on the still, small life of a human in order to prove his unfathomable love for humanity. What a beautiful example of how much He loves us. It's a busy (and sometimes stressful) time of year, and I hope that you find time among the lights and wrapping paper to take a moment to enjoy, take in the loveliness of this season, and realize how much you are loved by your creator!

For to us a child is born,

    to us a son is given,

    and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the greatness of his government and peace

    there will be no end.

--Isaiah 9:6-7

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Holiday Sparkle

(Top: F21, Skirt: F21, Tights: Hue, Shoes: Candies, Mug: Starbucks)

It's been awhile since I've done an outfit post, and with the arrival of the holiday season, it was fun to put together something with a little sparkle & texture to it! I love the look of swiss dots, especially on tights, and this pretty chiffon blouse mirrored that print as well! The deep, rich color & textured fabric of the skirt was fun to accent with a little glittery gold for a perfect pairing. This little coffee mug by Alice & Olivia from Starbucks is my absolute favorite! Isn't the tutu/bowtie combo just adorable? I knew it was a must-have when I spotted it. It's crazy to think that we're now in the swing of the Christmas season, and I'm beginning to collect gifts for friends and family. Have you started your shopping yet? 

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She Likes..

(Cardigan: c/o SHELIKES, Top: F21, Jeans: F21, Shoes: Bamboo, Necklace: vintage)

If there's one rule I like to follow most, it's got to be 'wear classic pieces with a twist'. It's easy and fun to do, and can take you from a holiday party to a day of running errands. This soft knit cardigan gets a splashy update with sequins and gold chain link detail. Thrown over a simple striped tee and paired with glittering loafers, it's a cozy and well-loved classic with a cheeky twist. You could also swap out jeans for a cranberry colored skirt and some gold heels and voila!, cocktail party ready. This sparkling sweater will be my go-to choice for my last minute shopping days, and an upcoming event this week. Treat yourself to one, and be sure to use the code Blog20 to get 20% off, happy shopping! :) 

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Styled: Ankle Boots

(Top: LOFT (old), Shorts: H&M, Tights: TJMaxx, Boots: CottonOn, Necklace: Juicy Couture)

I love the look of a thick tweed short paired with tights, especially in such a fun plum color! To keep the look soft, I paired the shorts with a pale pink button blouse. Some simple accessories like a long gold necklace and pearl earrings look fresh and pretty but don't distract. --C

(Sweater: F21, Jeans: F21, Necklace: Juicy Couture, Earrings: Kate Spade, Clutch: Thrifted, Boots: CottonOn)

I wanted to work with the balance of volume for this look. A oversized comfy sweater in a chunky knit stripe looks great when paired with a dark wash skinny jean. Sparkling jewels and a gold clutch are the finishing touches that make this outfit perfect for coffee dates or an early dinner with friends. --L

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Weekend Wanderings

It's time to finish up school, getting ready for finals week, attend a jewelry party, a bridal party luncheon for a friend, finish Christmas shopping, make an epic trip to the post office to mail out all of my gifts to people, and some much needed relaxation time. 

Hello, Weekend! 

What are you up to??

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Lately..

I was totally spoiled by my lovely swap partner, Alysia, for the Cold Hands, Warm Hearts swap..she's the best! 

 Christmas decorations are so much fun!

 I spent an evening with my lovely friend Carly. It was so so great to catch up on life, share what we've been learning, shop, get bubble tea and a delicious dinner at one of our favorite cafes. 

Here's to a great week ahead!

Happy Monday!

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Weekend Wanderings

(shop this clothing online here)

Happy Weekend everyone! Hope it's been a fantastic week for you, so far. Mine has been rather busy, and this weekend is a continuation of that. Performances to attend, papers to write as classes wind down,  the house is yet to be decorated, and a Christmas party (already!) shall be on the schedule for these next days. I put together this outfit as I was thinking of what to wear for the party..it's a perfect mix of textures and colors. The pretty cranberry with a soft powder grey feather skirt is quite lovely, and the mint color of the necklace is a understated yet interesting accent, perfect for a celebration. 

What are you up to this weekend?

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Sponsor Spotlight: Miss Kismet

Ok you guys, I've got one of the most wonderful girls to introduce to you today. 

Not only is Gabrielle gorgeous, she's also mega talented and her shop, Miss Kismet, is the most charming thing around. Seriously. If you're looking for something to get that friend or relative..look no further. She's got a bunch of beautiful things to choose from, and she's even given you a special discount for being a TeaTime Thoughts reader..score!

I've picked out a few of my favorite items below. 

Remember to use the code: TEATIMETHOUGHTS15  at checkout through Dec 10th!

This rose print would make a perfect gift for your girly chic friend...namely me. 

How adorable is this ring??

This print is so mysteriously beautiful; almost like something out a fairytale or movie.

I would wear this bracelet to every. single. party. 

love. 

What's your favorite?

Be Sure to Follow her on: Twitter, Etsy, Bloglovin'

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Gift Guide

Just in case you get stuck, here's a few great suggestions

(via)

Happy Weekend!

-Candice

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Colorful Friday

I shall not be joining the masses of crazy people (you know who you are..) who are out shopping during the wee hours of the morning this year, namely because I get to work today. Having experienced the craziness of Black Friday shopping before, I just have to ask, is the extra 40% off that Coach bag really worth shoving and quarreling over? Yikes..

On another note, here's a few things that are on my Christmas wish list this year..

I think this monogrammed necklace is so classy..perfect for dressing up or down. 

a fabulous wide-angle lens would be so fun to experiment with

It's everything dainty, French and sparkly in a ring..j'taime!

sequins are so festive..and this gold dress would be lovely for a party 

cozy faux-fur throw for my reading chair

I've not read this book by Erwin McManus, and I'd really like to..

hoping to do some travel quite soon, so I'd love a pair of these for flights

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

What's on your list? 

Happy (Black) Friday!

P.S. If you're braving the crowds, remember: comfy shoes, caffeine and hydration :)

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