10 Things That Make Me Happy: Design Darling

Happy Monday! I have a skip in my step because I'm incredibly excited that Christmas is right around the corner. Warm Christmas cookies, family time, hot cocoa and seeing old friends is what will be on the agenda when we touch down in Portland on Wednesday. Lots of packing is to be done before we leave. What are you up to this week? Traveling? Spending time with family?

Today, the lovely Mackenzie from Design Darling is guest blogging. She's about to graduate from Bucknell University in May and she's looking forward to leaving her mark on the design industry in a yet-to-be-determined way — whether in fashion, interiors, or the editorial side of things. I know she's going to be wildly successful because she has already done so much at such a young age.

Thank you Mackenzie for your wonderful post!

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Hi everyone! I'm Mackenzie from Design Darling and I'm so thankful to Caitlin for having me here today! Caitlin and I met in September at the launch party for Rue and I've been a huge fan of her blog ever since. I love this series and I'm excited to be participating at a time of year when it's all too easy to take life for granted. I've kept my list very light-hearted but rest assured that my family knows they're loved too!

1. Ballet flats. Anything I can wear year-round in Connecticut becomes an absolute wardrobe staple. I love my Tory Burch flats because I can wear them for everything — to class on weekdays and out to dinner on weekends. I own these in orange leather and pink suede but I would love to add this leopard pair ($225) to my repertoire.

2. Costume jewelry. Nothing puts the finishing touch on an outfit quite like the perfect bauble. This Kenneth Jay Lane cocktail ring (on sale for $98) is the brightest piece in my jewelry box and thus my go-to for jazzing up plain jane looks.

3. Glee. What could be better than a musical comedy that features the sexy Matthew Morrison and endless style inspiration from Jayma Mays's Emma Pillsbury? The guidance counselor's wardrobe is a chic reminder that, as a redhead, I too can pull off a little color.

4. High heels. The higher, the better. I'm known in my circle of friends for wearing heels to every social function regardless of the time or weather. Snowing and sticking? That calls for heeled over-the-knee boots. Lounging in the backyard during the day? Time to bust out the five-inch wedges. Currently I'm coveting these Jessica Simpson wedges (on sale for $80).

5. Nantucket. This little island off the coast of Massachusetts is quite simply my favorite place on earth. Our family owns a summer home here and I have been lucky to spend several summers on the island working in retail. I highly recommend that everyone visit if you get the chance!

6. Magazines. I just can't get enough! They're the perfect complement to my favorite blogs and online publications. My current favorites are Marie Claire for fashion and Elle Decor for interiors.

7. Manicures and pedicures. My mom, sister, and I love to treat ourselves to the occasional mani/pedi. It's our chance to catch up and unwind, not to mention walk out a little prettier than we came in! My favorite color has long been Essie's Fiesta — the perfect hot pink!

8. Our puppies. Well, they're not really puppies anymore. My parents surprised me and my three siblings with Coach seven Christmases ago. We decided he needed a buddy so we adopted his half-brother Fenway that summer (and the Red Sox won the World Series that October!). Our cockapoos are just the light of our lives and I'm instantly happier when I'm with them.

9. Things that sparkle. I'm in love with my new sequined skirt from J.Crew (similar style here, $275). It will be the perfect dress-it-up or dress-it-down item for soirées pre- and post-holiday season. It's not just the skirt though; a pair of crystal candlesticks, a polished silver frame, a mirrored dresser... Really anything sparkly will do!

10. My computer. My Macbook Pro ($1,199+) is my lifeline. I use it for blogging, editing photos, writing papers, online shopping... I can't imagine life without it! I'm looking forward to my phone upgrade this spring — it just might be time to spring for the iPhone!

Thank you again, Caitlin! Happy holidays to you all!

10 Things That Make Me Happy: So Haute

I've literally been counting down the days until Nicole from So Haute would be guest blogging about her "10 Things." She has impeccable style - from fashion to interiors. I've followed Nicole's blog for a long, long time and we finally met this past September. We instantly became great friends. She's incredibly talented (both on her blog and with her day job), the sweetest gal around, and one of the most supportive bloggers I've met.

I knew Nicole's list would not disappoint - I was 100 percent correct. Thanks Nicole for sharing what makes you happy, and readers - be sure to pop over to her blog for inspiration!

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Hi! It's Nicole from So Haute, a blog about interior design and style for the home. I can't tell you enough how much I adore Caitlin's "10 Things that Make Me Happy" series so needless to say I was super excited when she asked me to participate! Caitlin has such a great eye for design and also happens to be one of the sweetest bloggers I've had the opportunity to meet so it's truly an honor to be sharing my favorite things with you here at Sacramento Street. Thank you Caitlin for inviting me!

1. Beach Sunsets - Because they are beyond beautiful. I just returned from a vacay in the Caribbean and these two sunset photos are from my trip. There's nothing better than laying out all day and then watching the sunset over the ocean!

2. Pink Flowers - I am a total girlie girl and love anything pink...especially pink flowers. They're so pretty and will instantly make a room feel more vibrant and alive. This lovely bouquet is from H. Bloom.

3. Babies - I sort of have baby fever since everyone around me is having babies these days! This is my great nephew Avery. He's so cute I can't stand it!

4. My iPad - I never thought I could become so addicted to a gadget but I'm utterly obsessed with my iPad! It keeps me organized, I watch TV on it, read books on it, email on it...basically I'm on my iPad all day long. And Evernote is the best app ever - it keeps me organized and allows me to instantly sync my notes to all of my electronic devices including my BlackBerry and laptop. I don't know what I'd do without my iPad and Evernote!

5. Baking - For me baking is so cathartic. I love experimenting with recipes and making things in the kitchen. It also allows me to be creative. Even though I'm usually just baking for myself I often take meticulous care in plating and garnishing my dishes as if I were a master pastry chef. I equally enjoy consuming the fruits of my labor in the kitchen:) My Kitchen Aid Artisan stand mixer is a godsend!

6. Black and White Photography - I collect black & white photography and I there are so many beautiful photographs I want. This affordable find is from artist Leigh Viner's Etsy shop and is currently on my wish list.

7. Sweets - My current obsession is Macarons from the Macaron Cafe here in NYC. They have a gazillion flavors and they're all to die for. You can also order them online here.

8. Design Inspiration - I can't get enough and I especially love collecting design books and hoarding shelter magazines. I just ordered a copy of "Details" - a book by Lili Diallo who is a former Domino editor and current Deputy Style Editor at Country Living. I can't wait to devour it!

9. Breakfast - It's my favorite meal of the day. I'm especially partial towards pancakes covered in fresh fruit and lots of maple syrup served with a side of bacon. The sweet and salty combo is insanely delicious. I am going to try this recipe for Whole Grain Pancakes with Blueberries during my time off over the Christmas holiday.

10. Scarves - They're my favorite accessory and I wear one with just about every outfit no matter the season. Right now I'm lusting after this colorful leopard Diane Von Furstenberg scarf. Its chic, sexy and I just love the bright pink!

10 Things That Make Me Happy: Stylish Bird

Happy Monday! I'm ready to take on this hectic week - I've got lots of projects to complete, work is crazy, holiday parties to attend and to top it all off, I'll be traveling to Portland tonight for a 36 hour trip to celebrate my dad getting an award from the Governor of Oregon.

Today, I'm honored to have the lovely Amanda from Stylish Bird sharing her 10 things. She's an Interior Designer in the Bay Area and will be launching her site in early 2011! Amanda and I live incredibly close to one another and have tried to plan coffee, lunch and dinner dates - we're finally meeting up later this week! I'm so excited because we have so much in common. We love interior design, the bay area and from this post I realized we have SO much more than I thought in common. I thought I was alone in my Rodin face oil obsession - if you don't use it RUN, don't walk, to your nearest Erica Tanov or Barneys.

Thank you Amanda for guest blogging here today! See you on Thursday.

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I was so flattered and excited when Caitlin asked me to participate in her "10 Things" post. I've been a long time reader of Sacramento Street, so guest blogging today is really an honor. It's always fun to see what people choose and I love that it gives you a little glimpse into their lives. I decided to focus on the everyday items that I use that truly put a little extra bounce in my step...

1. Ethnic textiles. I'm a total sucker for an ethnic textile. I know that at this point suzanis are a little played out, but I don't care. The colors, patterns and vintage quality can give an interior a unique soulful quality that I just can't get enough of. Pillows from Jayson Home & Garden

2. Stationary. Letterpress to be exact. I love the feel of thick card stock with the colored indentations. It has such a luxurious feel that you know is special the instant you touch it. I can't tell you how much I appreciate a handwritten note. Linda & Harriet custom notecards & envelopes from Soiree San Francisco.

3. Products. I'm a girl who loves her lotions and potions. Especially in the winter when it's so dry out. I swear by Rodin Olio Lusso face oil. It's made of a blend of essential oils and it smells positively heavenly. I slather it on before bed every night and wake up with glowing skin. It's a little pricey, but a little goes a long way. Rodin Olio Lusso Face Oil from Barney's New York.

4. Lipstick. Until recently I had never worn lipstick a day in my life. The red lip trend piqued my interest, so I went out and bought one. Now I am totally addicted. It makes me feel a little more glamorous and feminine when I go out at night. Every woman needs a good red lipstick in her arsenal. Laura Mercier lip pencil in Ruby & Nars pure matte lipstick in Vesuvio

5. Boots. Living in the Bay Area means it's cold. A lot. I live in a uniform of jeans, blouses & boots. These Madewell booties have been getting a lot of play time this season. They are the perfect little black bootie. You can dress them up or down, wear them with high waisted jeans, skinny jeans or with tights and a dress. Madewell Shortcut booties

6. Coffee. The taste, the smell, the ritual. I love it all. The first thing I do in the morning is make my coffee and sit down to read all my favorite blogs. It's like the quiet before the storm and I cherish that time. I like all types of coffee, but Blue Bottle Coffee is especially good. If you are a coffee person I highly recommend giving it a try. Blue Bottle Coffee Co.

7. Handbag. This summer I turned 30 (gasp!) and took a 6 week trip to London. I wanted a high quality bag that was versatile and that had a flap that closed to discourage those who might be inclined to lift my goods while standing uncomfortably close together on the tube. I decided to get myself Mulberry's Alexa bag. It's made of soft buttery leather and you can carry it as a handbag, shoulder bag or cross body. Definitely a splurge, but you only turn 30 once, right? Mulberry Alexa bag from Net-a-Porter.

8. Magazines. I adore my monthly magazines. The second they arrive in the mail my heart starts beating a little faster and I have to stop everything to do a preliminary fly through before I have time to really sit down and devour the whole thing. I love so many magazines for all different reasons, but I'm a California girl and C Magazine is my favorite. Get a subscription here.

9. Technology. I am constantly connected, so my iPhone is an important part of my life and my business. I never knew I needed it before I had one, but now I couldn't live without it. iPhone from Apple.

10. Scarves. Again, the Bay Area is cold and any local knows it's all about layering. I am never without a scarf, and in particular, I'm never with my blue scarf. It's my favorite! Love Quotes scarf in Marina from Tobi.

10 Things That Make Me Happy: Definitely Golden

Happy Monday! What a wonderful long weekend it was - spent time with friends and family, decorated our apartment for the holiday season, had many cups of hot cocoa and the best part was I didn't turn on my computer the entire weekend.

My Thanksgiving dinner turned out wonderfully. This is the first Thanksgiving Eric and I have cooked together - our turkey was perfectly cooked, brussels sprouts were delicious, homemade pumpkin pie was yummy and the only complaint was that my mashed potatoes were a little lumpy (husband's opinion). I couldn't have asked for a better night because we were surrounded by loved ones.

Today, I'm excited to have Marzena from Definitely Golden. Her blog inspires me every single day with images that make my heart beat a little bit faster. If you're ever looking for beautiful images and photos, this is the blog to check out. I promise you will love it.

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There are a lot of things I like about Sacramento Street and this series is most definitely one of them. The ability of a well made composition to tell a story in a short glance is something that I find very attractive. And now, I am one of those people: one of those people who actually enjoys making list.

1. i grew up enjoying the pleasures of tea culture which had different repercussions in my life: you will always find different blends in my cupboard and of course, it always has to be the real stuff which means whole leafs. the whole ritual of a well made cup of tea couldn't be perfect without the right visual hardware. although i tend to opt for everything plain and white, this teapot by the porcelain manufacturer

hutschenreuther marks an exception. its vintage pattern is both, beautiful and timeless.

2. a beautiful handwriting is something precious. unfortunately the occasions to write are quite rare which makes it even more important to indulge in a fountain pen and good paper. moleskine notebooks are great, but if you are in search of an alternative, the leather bound notebook from pinetti is definitely something special.

3. the gentlewoman is perfect - in so many ways. although i am a huge fan of blogs and websites, i wouldn't want to miss the experience of a well made magazine. this one convinced me right away. the content is refreshingly different and every picture a true eye-candy.

4. a must-have piece of jewellery is a pair of golden hoops. they come in different shapes and sizes, but i think that the classic version in a medium size is recommendable, since you can wear them easily during the day. the automne oak leaf earings by aurélie bidermann can be a wonderful extension to your collection.

5. my laptop and i, me and my laptop. we are practically inseparable, a perfect match. this model (q530) is my second samsung and i couldn't be happier. being a lightweight, it practically begs you to carry it around all day everyday. and its minimal design is just right for me.

6. a day without coffee is not a perfect day. there are a lot of coffee shops to discover and i seize the opportunity every time i can. but, i'm also happy to have discovered the perfect place for the daily fix: godshot offers great coffee made with a lot of love and expertise. on their card you can find the classic espresso as well as the australian flat white. the later is the smaller version of the well-known latte and served in a little glass which is used in the french culture for water. by the way the blend black cat is a perfect fit for this kind of coffee.

7. very few things are as personal as the scent you are wearing. it is important to go with the season and it is important to have a choice. but then again, it is important to find the perfume you never get tired of and which you can put on daily, feeling it simply belongs to you. since quite a while chloé is the one.

8. you certainly know by heart the desperate exclamation of a saleswoman "madam, this will absolutely go with practically everything". for once, it could be more than a cliché: le vernis by chanel in black satin is an allrounder and really goes with everything. i promise.

9. christmas and new year are just around the corner which is a perfect occasion to show your friends that they are not forgotten. i tend to browse through little shops in search for some unique cards produced by tinier manufactures like metoyou. the price you pay for those beauties is maybe a little bit higher, but so is the paper and design quality.

10. i'm running the danger to repeat myself, but i think that those pair of chloé shoes are a fabulous excuse to spend a whole evening browsing through the latest spring accessories at style.com.

10 Things That Make Me Happy: Live Creating Yourself

Today, I’d like to welcome the talented Alaina from Live Creating Yourself. She’s one of my best blogger friends, when we first met in New York it was like we had been friends for decades. She and I talk about everything, from what fashion finds we’re dying to have, to interior design questions like “I changed this around, what do you think?”, to needing a pick me up on a bad day – we’re always there for each other. I feel incredibly fortunate to have Alaina in my life and feel lucky that she is a friend. We will forever have a bond that no one else has.

By day Alaina is a graphic designer for a non-profit, but at night she transforms blogs into beautiful sites – from banners to navigation bars to a complete site overhaul. She’s the girl to go to if you want a site re-design.

Thanks Miss Alaina for guest blogging here today! Miss you.

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Thank you, darling Caitlin, for asking me to share 10 Things I Love on Sacramento Street. I thought I'd keep the theme winter- and holiday-related in the hopes of giving some good gift ideas to your readers. I figured if these items make me happy, they might make the loved ones in your lives happy too! Enjoy.

Black Turtlenecks (J.Crew merino wool), $69.50

You couldn't show less skin if you tried, yet somehow, the black turtleneck manages to be sexy. It's my go-to article of clothing come cold weather - perfect for work, holiday shopping, dinner dates, cocktail parties, and for cozying up and watching a movie. Seriously, invest in one. I own at least four.

Burberry cashmere hat, $175

I was fortunate to receive a cream-colored cashmere Burberry hat years ago, and it's still my favorite winter accessory. I know it's costly, but it's perfect and still looks and feels as beautiful as the day I unwrapped it.

J.Crew glitterati ballet flats, $125

These shoes literally bring smiles to people's faces. Strangers on the street stop me to compliment them and ask where they're from. My family laughs and says, "They're so you." And I discover an extra spring in my step when I put them on. Who knew a ballet flat could bring so much joy to the world?

Coralie Bickford-Smith Penguin Classics, $13.60 on Amazon

Art and literature in one.

West Elm faux fur throw, $95 (on sale)

I made some hot chocolate, popped in Love Actually, turned on the Christmas tree lights, and cozied up under this lil' number. What did you do this weekend?

Ikea Expedit Bookcase, $69.99

The thrifty girl's china cabinet.

Monogrammed Mugs, $6

I've never actually drank out of my A mug. It sits nestled on my desk, coraling pens and paper clips, and I love it. Given the personal detail of a monogram and the price point, I'd say this is one of the best gifts you can give a coworker.

Christopher Radko Ornaments, $45-75

My siblings and I were gifted Christopher Radko ornaments every Christmas from a very young age. Of course, we didn't appreciate them then; we just tried very hard not to break them. Now I have my collection hanging on my first Christmas tree in my apartment and memories of Christmases past come flooding back every time I glance at them.

Pottery Barn birch pillar candles, $15-69

The kind folks at Pottery Barn sent one of these my way, and it is absolutely STUNNING when lit. I highly recommend these for your home this season. I know I want more!

Rosebud Salve, $6

If you've ever experienced Chicago winter winds, you'll understand why this is my knight in shining armor.

10 Things That Make Me Happy: Jess LC

Ahh, this weekend was exactly what I needed - quality time with friends, gorgeous 70 degree weather, homemade meals and being lazy with my husband (something we both haven't done in awhile). I hope all of you had an equally as relaxing weekend.

I've been counting down the weeks until Jessica from Jess LC was up to blog about her 10 things. She's a jewelry designer based out of Chicago - all of her designs are beautiful, I want everything she comes out with. Jess also has a wonderful blog called Makeunder My Life - I've learned something new every single week by reading her blog. Her goal is to design your life with intention, something everyone should think about.

Thanks Jess for blogging here today!

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Hello! I'm so excited to share my favorite things that make me happy today on Sacramento Street. My blog, MakeunderMyLife.com is all about designing a life with intention. Two years ago, I made a personal intention to only have nice things that I need, use, and love. Since I didn't have much money back then, the easiest way to arrive at this goal was to get rid of a lot of stuff that I didn't need, use, or love. That way my ratio of nice to not-nice things increased.

In general, my blog posts about "stuff" focus on exfoliating unneeded items - which means today's topic is a real treat for me. Below are the ten items that I need, use, and love the most. Though the price range varies, all of these items are integrated into my day to day life to give me pleasure and are completely worth every penny.

Enjoy!
1. Voluspa Maison Blanc Saijo Persimmon Candle, $30

Yum. This candle by Voluspa smells wonderful next to my bed and I have to say the fancy box it comes in makes a nice container for my manicure supplies as well. Once the candle burns out, I'm planning on turning the glass container into a vase for flowers next summer. In my book, that's three for the price of one!

2. Neutrogena Moisture Shine Lip Soother, $6.99

Since I'm not big on lipstick, this gloss by Neutrogena is the perfect fit for me. The Gleam shade is just the right amount of pink without looking like I'm trying too hard. And the SPF 20 and moisture are perfect for running in the summer and staying moisturized in the winter.

3. Clybourn Loft Armchair, $300.99

When it comes to decor, I am generally a very neutral person; I like to have lots of muted furniture which I can change up with accent pillows. But I decided to go a little wild with this yellow print arm chair for my new living room and I'm so glad I finally committed to something bold! It adds a ton of personality and will one day look fantastic in a nursery. As for the price, it's a very "Anthropologie" look without the sticker shock.

4. The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen R. Covey, $7.42

Okay if there is one thing I can't help but plug, it's my favorite book of all time. I cannot imagine where I'd be at this point in my life without having picked up this book five years ago as a miserable college junior. Definitely worth checking out.

5. Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Mini Handbag, $525

If there is one thing I'll splurge on besides home decor, it's handbags. I cannot say enough good things about my Morning After Mini by Rebecca Minkoff. I have a dark brown version and I love it's timeless look. The roomy interior can hold all my hats and gloves in the winter and anything else I might need while running around Chicago.
6. Moroccan Oil, $30

As someone with curly hair, this oil has done wonders to keep frizz away and moisturize. All I need to do for a shiny blow out is apply a dime's worth of this oil and I'm good to go. Not super cheap, but it can last for up to six months.

7. Twig Floor Lamp, $139

This floor lamp is my newest home purchase (made yesterday). I can't wait for it to arrive. It's shiny base and black shade are going to add a touch of glamor and shine in my apartment - kind of like the living room's jewelry, if you will. I spotted it at Z Gallerie and it's even more stunning in person than it is in this photo.

8. Banana Republic Classic Trench, $198

This fall I invested in my first long trench coat. It's been wonderful as a lightweight fall jacket and will be a perfect rain coat next spring.

9. CB2 Format Square Tray, $35

I have a mild obsession with organization and trays like this acrylic one from CB2 help me create order out of a pile of magazines while looking chic at the same time.

10. Bear Traps Boots, $99 (but you can get them for about $70 at DSW)

As a Chicagoan, I cannot say enough great things about Bear Trap boots. I discovered them last year at DSW. They are the most comfortable pair of shoes that I own, are warm on even the windiest of winter days, and keep my feet dry no matter how much slush there is on the city roads in February. And for the price, they cannot be beat.