Monday, September 16, 2013

PHILLIP LIM for TARGET

 

 Did you get a chance to grab a few Phillip Lim pieces from Target yesterday?
 
On Sunday, shoppers were in a frenzy waiting in lines to see the newly handpicked clothing and accessories from the talented designer. I absolutely love these Target collaborations! Target gives customers affordable style options without compromising the quality of the items. Depending upon your area, finding pieces in stock may be an issue. However, there will be a few shipment updates in the upcoming weeks so look out for the collection.
 
I am really liking the look of at least 90% of the collection. The handbags are amazing and I plan to get a mini bag in light gray. I chose the pieces above because they reflect my kind of taste. I have about 30 scarves, so the one above definitely should be added to my wardrobe. Even after two years of peplum tops, I still like the look of them. Visit your nearest Target or go online and check it out.
 
Have a great Monday!

Friday, September 13, 2013

FASCINATION WITH LEOPARD PRINT

Don’t you just love the versatility of leopard/cheetah prints?

In preparation for the Fall season, I browsed over a few catalogs and websites to find pieces that would look great with any ensemble. A hot leopard clutch would look striking paired with a red dress or red pumps. I am envisioning the loose leopard trousers with a white silk button-down and a sharp pair of black heels. I am always spotting uniquely made leopard pieces everywhere and it truly gives me life!

What sort of leopard pieces have you spotted and are planning to wear this Fall?

 
 
 
 
LEOPARD PANTS DVF/BOOTS SAM EDELMAN/CLUTCH RALPH LAUREN/GLOVES ECHO DESIGN/ SUNGLASSES MIU MIU/ IPHONE CASE MARC JACOBS

Thursday, September 12, 2013

INSPIRATIONAL READS

 
 
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
Write it Down, Make it Happen by Henriette Ann Klauser
A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle
The Isaiah Effect by Gregg Braden
 
 

Reading has always been one of the things that comforts and completes me. I can escape through a story, learn from someone's life story, or be inspired by wise individuals. Earlier this summer I embarked on a self-awareness journey and I thought I'd share some of the books that have helped me thus far. If you find yourself wanting to understand your life's purpose and purge some of the negative vibes that society has instilled in your psyche, these books will give you a new perspective on life. In addition to reading these books, I also write in a journal every day. It’s a wonderful way to release thoughts that you aren't necessarily fond of and there is a freedom that comes with it. 
 
The Artist's Way is my favorite and many individuals who thrive on creative freedom will love this book. This book includes really helpful exercises on your personal pursuit of happiness. This is an ACTON book! Its not just about reading, but putting the tips to practice and achieving successful results. For instance, she advises readers to have an ‘Artist Date’ – one day a week for you to devote time to yourself and do something that inspires you to be creative. I have been painting and sketching which is so therapeutic and fun. I have read Write it Down, Make it Happen from cover to cover and it is amazing how much this book challenges me to be very specific when goal setting. I love how this book taps into how powerful our subconscious is and what it means for the way we think on a daily basis. A New Earth will change your life, seriously and you will be a new person. I can't say enough about how these types of books give you a personal upgrade.
 
Are there any books that you've read that changed your life? Share them with me.
 
 

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

SHOPPING FOR GROCERIES HAS ITS CHALLENGES


Photo Source:http://www.leavedebtbehind.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/save-money.jpg
 

Hello Readers!

I hope you had a wonderful Labor Day Weekend! I really enjoyed spending time with my family and laughing over all sorts of things like guilty pleasures (reality TV), favorite foods (anything sweet), and our own little quirks (like being cold or hot natured and needing the temperature at a specific degree). Having people around is always a good feeling and lets you know that you are loved.

I decided to go grocery shopping that evening and made my way to Whole Foods. A couple who checked out before me only had two very small bags and their groceries totaled to $167 dollars! My eyes shot up to my eyebrows because it didn’t look as if they purchased anything other than a few produce items. Anyway, I created a carefully organized shopping list to guide me (and keep me from following in their footsteps, haha). I plan to set up a link where EPD readers can print out a template to help keep your shopping goals from going haywire.
 
I am on a mission to make healthier food choices and learn how to make delicious meals that are low sugar, gluten-free and in some cases dairy free. The great thing about the web is that there are hundreds of sources to find incredible recipes from people who are on the same mission. It's still a challenge. Flavors are important to me and I don't necessarily want to compromise, lol. Plus, those recipes can be awfully intimidating to follow. It kind of makes you want to stop before getting started.
 
I know I couldn't be the only one who gets a bit annoyed at their grocery bill. Comment below and share your peeves with grocery shopping. Tips are welcomed as well!
 
Have an awesome Tuesday!

Monday, September 2, 2013

A DELECTABLE TABLE FOR A DELECTABLE BRAND


Racheal's Delectables Table



In support of a friend who bakes cheesecakes and cupcakes, I visited her booth at a local event in downtown Memphis. Although the booth was adorned with floating candles and other décor, it really did not fully reflect what she intended – which was to attract as many customers as possible and gain more clients. After the event, she asked if I would come up with a few ideas to make her booth stand out at the next event. I was very excited because the challenge involved using cost-effective ideas.

The first thing I did was sketch out the layout of the table and how I could maximize such a small space. She didn’t have a banner so we had to improvise on other ways to showcase her brand. I created a few printouts – a sign-up sheet, a photo of her succulent cheesecakes, and two price signs. The signs were framed at propped upon cake plate stands and I had a small container for business cards to be readily accessible. I LOVE glass apothecary jars and decided that filling one with candy would be a darling look. Mints in little glasses also sat on the table. I saw a photo of a cupcake prop and thought it would be great to recreate the look at another time. When shopping, she found a few glass cupcake props which went great with her theme. When she sent me the photo of the finished vending table, I was smiling from ear to ear!

We’ll be working on a banner for her next event and I look forward to helping her on her journey to being an established brand. This overall look came in under $50.00, which was pretty great. Just imagine the creative things one can explore once the budget allows for it!




Sunday, September 1, 2013

A MESSAGE AFTER MY OWN HEART


 
 

Photo Source: http://rosemreyes.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/640520_UUainxpW_c.jpg
 


Hello Readers!


 
Welcome to the E.P. Dallas Design Studio blog. This blog will chronicle my journey into fulfilling my aspirations to build a brand while helping others pursue the same. Marketing/PR can be such an exciting challenge and I accept it with open arms.
 
Did you catch the photo above?
 
When I see or hear the message in the photo above, something in my heart just sings. Every day that we are given the opportunity to wake up, we are given another CHANCE. What a powerful statement!  We may have gone to sleep with problems rolling around in our mind, but seeing the sun rise again tells us that joy and happiness can be found. ‘Today is a new day’ has such promise and helps one to acknowledge that we can correct any wrongs, make amends, seize the day, and fulfill our vision.
 
I hope that this finds you and helps you to reflect upon all the miracles that are brought into your life. Think about how you can use this new day to be kind to others, give with an unselfish spirit, strive for your goals, and embrace this precious existence on earth.