Dreaming of Paris: Books & Movies Inspired by the City of Love

October 19, 2020February 16, 2022by shakespeareloveschanel3 Comments

Bonjour, mes amis!

Raise your hand if you’ve watched Netflix’s new series Emily in Paris! This show gave me such wanderlust for the City of Love that I put together this fun little blog post of some wonderful books and movies set in Paris—plus a few of my favorite spots from past trips there.

What to Read

The Paris Wife by Paula McLain: this beautiful piece of historical fiction depicts the life of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife Hadley. This novel transports you to the City of Light in the 1920’s, with vivid imagery, evocative characters, and a perfect mix of Parisian romance and heartache. I’ve always had a fascination with Jazz Age Paris, and this book hits all the right notes.
Paris for One & Other Stories by Jojo Moyes: this story collection is equal parts charming and poignant, which I feel is a particular specialty of the author (who also wrote Me Befofe You). The title story “Paris for One” (which, at around 150 pages, I would deem a novella) tells the tale of Nell, a 20-something British girl, who finds herself alone in Paris for the weekend after being stood up by her boyfriend. I read this story in one sitting and very much enjoyed the characters and the magical descriptions of Paris.
The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George: this delightful novel is the perfect story for bookworms and romantics. The protagonist Monsieur Perdu, who owns a small book shop aboard his boat on the Seine, has this skill for “prescribing” the perfect book to heal peoples’ hearts—though ironically, his own heart has never healed, after his one great love left him suddenly many years ago.

What to Watch

Movie poster for the 1954 film *Sabrina*
(This photo is in the public domain. More info here).

Sabrina: though I adore the 1954 version with Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart, I must admit I slightly prefer the 1995 version with Julia Ormond and Harrison Ford. One reason for this is because of the setting: many scenes were actually filmed on location in Paris, whereas the 1954 version used a sound stage to create Parisian backdrops (after all, nothing can substitute Paris for the real thing!). I also feel like you get a better sense of Sabrina’s experiences in Paris in the remake, and how the city changes her, makes her grow. Also, here’s a fun fact: though the popular quote “Paris is always a good idea” is often attributed to Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina, it was Julia Ormond who actually said it in the remake!
Paris, Je T’aime: This movie is actually a series of vignettes (AKA short films). Some of the movie is in English and some of it’s in French, and each vignette has its own characters and unique stories. One’s first experience watching it can be a bit perplexing because it’s an unconventional form of storytelling, but I promise you that every time I see it, I truly enjoy it more and more. This film is not only a love letter to the city of Paris, it is a love letter to love in all its many forms.
Midnight in Paris: Owen Wilson stars as an American writer on vacation in Paris with his fiancée (played by Rachel McAdams). His soon-to-be-wife doesn’t understand his fascination with Jazz Age Paris (honestly, she doesn’t seem to understand him at all). One night as he strolls through the city, he finds himself magically transported back to that era, mingling with famed authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and Ernest Hemingway. His experiences with them end up dramatically changing his perspective and, in turn, his life.

A Few Favorite Spots in Paris

Shakespeare and Company

Shakespeare and Company is a small, iconic bookstore that’s been visited by world-renowned authors over its many years in business, so if you’re a book-enthusiast like me, this is a must stop while in Paris. It’s pretty cramped and crowded inside, and they don’t allow photos, but it’s definitely worth perusing this famous shop.

Monet’s Water Lilies

Of course museums like the Louvre and the D’Orsay are vast and impressive, but it is the Musée de l’Orangerie that will always have my heart. The reason for this is my love for Monet’s Water Lilies, which reside there in two oval-shaped rooms specifically designed for them. These immense works of art have such a dreamlike quality that I find to be so peaceful and inspiring.

Jardin des Tuileries

The Tuileries Garden is magnificent—or, as the French say, magnifique. Though it was once a palace garden, it became a public park after the French Revolution and is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll, or to simply enjoy the sunshine and people watch.

Though like many of you, I’m dreaming of traveling abroad again next year, there remain so many uncertainties because of Covid-19. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy my recommendations for ways to “visit” Paris via the pages of a book or a TV. The beret, of course, is optional 😉

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What to Read While in Quarantine

April 30, 2020May 7, 2020by shakespeareloveschanel10 Comments

“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.” —Mason Cooley

Our world has changed so much the past few months. To slow the spread of the coronavirus, we’ve been at home for over a month (the stay home order began here in Oregon on March 23rd). Depending what country you live in, perhaps you’ve been at home even longer than that.

I’m so grateful to all the healthcare professionals and essential workers here in the US and around the globe, as they work tirelessly to serve and protect others. It’s undoubtedly a difficult time for everyone, in ways we may not even realize. I’m truly thankful to be safe at home with my family.

Books have been an escape for me since I was a kid. No matter what was going on in my life, I could always get lost in a story. I majored in English in college and then went on to an MFA in Writing, so it’s safe to say I’ve read a lot over the years.

When I first started thinking about what to put on this list, I was unsure where to start. Do I choose something from every genre? Do I share only contemporary books or mix in a few classics? That led me down an endless rabbit hole, so then I simply asked myself: what have I been reading lately?

In this time of uncertainty, I’ve found myself primarily reaching for beloved books or favorite writers, the ones I knew I could count on—the ones who’d been there for me, in other times of turmoil throughout my life. In this time of much-needed escapism, these books transport me to other times and other places, and make me feel inspired even in the face of adversity.

Almost all of these are works of fiction—all but one. But that one feels so perfectly timed for the current state of our world that I simply had to add it.

On a slightly different note, I wanted to provide a link to our local independent bookstore here in Portland, Powell’s Books. I’m not sponsored by them or anything like that, I’ve just honestly been a customer of theirs since I was a kid. Their locations have been closed during this time, but their online store remains open for orders. This is such a tough season for local shops and small businesses, and, if you’re able, I encourage you to support local businesses in your communities.

Without further ado, “What to Read While in Quarantine: Hope, Love, Loss, and a Bit of Time Travel.”

There are two historical fiction novels on this list: The Nightingale and All the Light We Cannot See. Both are beautifully written stories set in World War II, so if you enjoy that era, I couldn’t recommend these two more.

Both novels have strong female protagonists and have overarching themes of love and loss. They do an incredible job with descriptive, elegant language that paints such vivid imagery. I particularly admire the way both novels discuss familial relationships, abandonment, and complex family dynamics during times of great hardship.

All the Light We Cannot See is also an exceptional example of finding light in times of darkness, something that feels especially relevant this year.

Up next is the only work of nonfiction on this list, Everything is F*cked: a Book About Hope. (I paired it with a bottle of whiskey as a quarantine-worthy gift for my best friend’s birthday). This book is from Mark Manson, the bestselling author of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, and is written in the same candid, witty style.

Though I’ve just started reading this, I knew it had to make the list because of our current world crisis with the coronavirus. Manson does such a great job of questioning the anxieties and hopelessness we often feel in our modern world, with his signature curse words and straightforward manner. He’s one of those writers that literally makes me laugh out loud, and these days we all could use a little extra humor.

If you want to dip your toes back into some classics without committing to a giant tome, these two novels are on the shorter side (at least when compared to a lot of classic lit).

The Great Gatsby is something a lot of people only read once in a high school English class, and this great American novel is well worth revisiting as an adult. I try to re-read it every few years, and I honestly gain something new with each read through. This tale is such an iconic portrayal of disillusionment and longing that is just as relevant now as it was almost a century ago.

Pride and Prejudice is arguably Jane Austen’s most famous novel and is equal parts charm, wit, and poignancy. Even though the 19th century customs of the English social hierarchy might feel very foreign to a modern reader, the complex portrayal of relationships (both familial and romantic) feels ageless.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (AKA Sorcerer’s Stone here in the US) is, of course, the book that started the international phenomenon. I included it on this list because Harry Potter got me through some very dark days in my childhood and no matter how old I get, the Wizarding World has never lost its wonder or appeal.

The photo above is when we visited the Harry Potter Studio Tour at Warner Bros. in London, back in 2017. I’m standing in the Great Hall, where every single movie was filmed. I might be pushing 30 now, but my love for all things Harry Potter will never cease!

It’s been so fun to revisit the Harry Potter books and movies during this past month at home. After all, if there was ever a time for a bit of escapism and magic, then this would be it.

The final two books on the list are The Time Traveler’s Wife and Outlander. Though both of these novels have time travel as a pivotal element, they’re quite different in most other regards.

I’ve mentioned The Time Traveler’s Wife on the blog before, as it’s one of my all-time favorite novels. I’ve read it many times and, though I do love the star-crossed lovers Henry and Clare, something I’ve long admired is the novel’s structure.

Back in college when I was studying literature, my professors talked a lot about “form contributing to content.” This novel is a prime example of such a notion, as it doesn’t follow a typical chronological timeline. Instead, each section is labeled by its date and point-of-view because the story is told in first person from Henry and Clare’s unique perspectives.

Much in the same way that Henry skips around in time and has no control over what day or year he suddenly finds himself in, we the reader also bounce around in time. One section Clare may be a little girl, and in the next she might be in college or getting married. In this novel, the way that the story is told mirrors the concept of time travel.

As for Outlander, I’m the first to admit that I’m late to the party on this one, but after binging season one of the hit TV show on Stars, I knew I had to read the sensational novel that it’s based on.

Though this novel is quite long at over 800 pages, Diana Gabaldon’s writing is so elegant and descriptive that the page number becomes irrelevant. I love how this story defies genres, since it really has a bit of everything in it—historical fiction, romance, sci-fi, fantasy.

I also find the protagonist Claire Randall to be such a strong and compelling female lead (yes, another main character named Claire, though with a different spelling!). Though some might dismiss this book as “airport fiction,” I truly enjoy the genre-defying storyline, beautiful writing, and historic detail. (And who doesn’t like reading a good love triangle from time to time? 😉)

This list, of course, is personal—I wanted to share books that have been a source of comfort and inspiration to me recently and over the course of my life. If there are books or films that you love, that hold a special place in your heart or bring back happy memories, then that’s what I encourage you to enjoy during these weeks at home. On days when I’m feeling blue or unlike myself, these books have brought encouragement and joy.

And isn’t that part of why we as humans love stories? To find meaning, to connect, to be uplifted?

I’ve always been a bookworm, but I honestly haven’t read this much since grad school. I’ve revisited old “friends” like Elizabeth Bennett, Jay Gatsby, and Harry Potter and discovered a few new ones. I hope these stories provide some escape for you, as they have for me, along with some gems of wisdom and inspiration that—even in times of great darkness—there is always hope and light.

Perhaps Dumbledore said it best in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban: “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Stay safe and stay well ❤️

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One of Those Summer Nights

August 10, 2018by shakespeareloveschanel3 Comments

We’ve been back from our trip for almost two weeks, and–though I love cruisin’ the Caribbean–I truly love my home state of Oregon. *For some of my Portland faves–from sweet shops to burger joints–check out those links to my previous posts!

Oregon has beautiful summers, and one of my favorite summertime traditions is heading to our local drive-in theater, the 99W (named for the highway that runs beside it).

My husband and I have been coming here every summer since we first started dating 8 years ago, and I hope this local landmark stays around for years to come so we can one day bring our kiddos! For now, we bring along our sweet fur baby Brody 🐶

The 99W Drive-In has been in Newberg, Oregon, since 1953. It’s a local landmark, roughly 20 miles outside of Portland, and makes for a perfect evening out. After all, what’s better than not one, but TWO, movies underneath the stars with your loved ones?

I love the nostalgic feel of the drive-in and supporting a local business that’s one of the few of its kind left. During the 1950’s and 60’s when drive-ins were in their prime, there were over 4,600 in the US. In contrast, there are less than 350 locations in the US today (more info on that here).

If you’re attending on a Friday or Saturday, I recommend arriving around 5 o’clock, which is when the line outside the entrance usually starts to form. And trust me, you do not want to arrive later and get stuck in the back, far away from the screen (it only happened to us once, years ago, but we haven’t made that mistake twice 😉). Our favorite spot is the third or fourth row from the front, in one of the middle spaces (as shown below).

This pic is a little throwback from last summer at the drive-in. Shout out to our besties, Aundria and Brett, who have been traveling abroad for most of this year. Can’t wait to finally see you both in a few weeks! 😭

Hat: Portland Gear Chambray Shirt: Calvin Klein Jeans (similar here and here) Striped Tank Top: H&M (similar) Leggings: Nike (similar here and here) Sneakers: Jack Purcell Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Clubmaster

I always keep things comfy and casual for nights at the drive-in. The athleisure trend that’s been everywhere the last few years is perfect for such occasions.

I stuck to a neutral color palette, with classic staples like a striped tank, black Nike leggings, and Jack Purcell sneakers. My chambray shirt by Calvin Klein Jeans is a longtime go-to. It’s one of those amazing shirts that truly gets better with age. And last but not least, I’m repping my hometown in my Portland Gear cap, which is another wardrobe favorite.

Is there a drive-in theater in your area? What are your favorite summertime activities?

Happy Weekend to you all! Thank you for stopping by. ❤️

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Round and Round We Go

June 24, 2018July 7, 2018by shakespeareloveschanel1 Comment

For the Graduation

By Robert Creeley

for Kate

Round and round
again, and
up and down
again—always

these days do
go by, and
this one is yours
to go by.

This walking on
and on, this
going and coming—
this morning

shines such lovely
light on
all of us.
We’re home.

These last few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity, with both my siblings graduating (my sister from high school and my brother from my Alma Mater, the University of Oregon). The above lines “round and round again, and up and down again” definitely apply to how we’ve all been feeling. It’s been a special time too though, to see all their hard work and dedication come to fruition.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about what a unique period graduation is: how you’re on the edge of something old and on the brink of something new, how you’ve achieved one goal and have your sights set on the next.

I read this sweet, poignant poem that acclaimed poet Robert Creeley wrote for his daughter for her graduation. And it reminded me of how commencement is also a time of celebration for the families—that all the years of support and love and sacrifice have culminated in a concrete way.

As a whole, his poem reflects upon the cyclical nature of life–the Earth goes round and round, and so do we: “these days do go by, and this one is yours to go by.”

He also wrote that “This morning shines such lovely light on all of us” and I feel like I know exactly what he means. The light of their achievements and success shines on us too– because we all helped each other, in various ways, to reach the points where we’re at now.

I’m really fortunate to be close to my siblings, and I feel such pride when I see them succeed. We are especially grateful to our mom, who has worked so hard and sacrificed so much. We wouldn’t be here without her.

So here’s to all the graduates, and their friends and families and loved ones, to the sleepless nights and stressful days, and to all the goals and dreams that we have yet to achieve.

Trench Coat: DKNY (similar here and here) Knee-High Boots:Blondo Purse: Chanel Medallion Tote (similar)

June is generally a busy time of year filled with graduations, bridal showers, weddings, and the official start of summer.

In Oregon we still get a decent amount of rain this time of year, and my sister’s high school graduation was a stormy day when we had a mix of wind, hail, and downpours! As such, I knew my coat was going to be the outfit–especially since the ceremony was outside!–so I chose this silvery gray DKNY trench coat for the occasion.

Floral Dress: Soprano (floral options from the same brand: here, here, and here) Purse: Chanel Classic Flap (similar here and here) Ankle-Strap Heels: Breckelle’s (similar) Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar)

For my brother’s graduation at the beautiful University of Oregon campus, the weather couldn’t have been more different. It was a breezy, sunny afternoon and I got to wear one of my favorite floral dresses from Soprano. My brother’s tassel and sash were light pink (representing the Music major), and my mom and I chose to color-coordinate (because we’re cool like that 😉).

I love versatile floral dresses for spring and summer–this particular one I’ve worn to work with a blazer, to a bridal shower, and now to a graduation as well. Soprano always has great prints and fun dresses, and I’ve linked a variety of options above. I’ve also linked some lovely quilted handbags that share a similar design with the Chanel classic flap.

In my next post later this week, I’ll be sharing style inspiration for the 4th of July! Whether you’ll be hosting a BBQ, attending a pool party, or camping in the wilderness, I have outfit ensembles for a variety of occasions. I’ll also be sharing some great activities for the 4th here in the Portland area.

Hope you all are having a great weekend!

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Oregon, Home Sweet Home

June 8, 2018June 8, 2018by shakespeareloveschanel3 Comments

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I’m dedicating my travel series for the month of June to the beautiful state of Oregon that I’ve always called home. I’ll be sharing my personal picks for Portland (from restaurants to breweries to activities) and several quick and easy day trips–from Mt. Hood to the Oregon Coast.

I feel truly blessed to grow up in such a gorgeous, green region; we may get lots of rain, but that rain lends itself to colorful seasons and lush landscapes. Also, if you’re planning a visit to the Portland area, our summers are lovely, with mostly warm, dry weather from July through September.

Unlike my travel posts from May, however, I’m spreading out my favorite places and recommendations over the course of the whole month of June, so these will each be shorter, more succinct pieces.

I’m starting with a bit of nostalgia today and sharing one of my family’s favorite restaurants that makes the perfect pit-stop on Highway 26, when en route to coastal towns like Seaside or Cannon Beach.

Also, my summer reading list is at the bottom of this post!

Camp 18 is a charming, rustic restaurant about an hour’s drive west of Portland (and only 25 minutes from Seaside). The restaurant’s name comes from the fact that it’s located at mile post 18 on Highway 26 (one of the major highways that runs east/west in Oregon, stretching from the coast to the Idaho border). Its structure is a beautiful log cabin with massive wooden beams, hand carved front doors, and a picturesque creek located just behind it.

We adore their brunch and have been coming here since I was a little kid (highly recommend the “flatcars”–aka giant pancakes–with the locally made marionberry syrup!). This family-friendly spot is great for locals and tourists alike (pictured above on a recent visit with my younger brother!).

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Striped Top: H&M (similar here and here) Black Jeans: 7 For All Mankind (similar) Leather Jacket: Wyatt (similar) Mules: Topshop (similar) Purse: Prada (similar style here) Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Clubmaster Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar)

The weather has been hit-and-miss lately; we’ve had some hot, sunny days, but also some cloudy, mild ones. This outfit is perfect for those temperate Oregon days, typical of spring and early summer. I’ve been loving the off-the-shoulder trend, and this version from H&M is an awesome striped option. My mules are from Topshop and are a comfy, 90’s trend that I’m definitely a fan of. My Prada purse was a purchase on our honeymoon in Italy; above, I linked the exact style and also a less pricey option that is a similar size.

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My summer reading list (so far!):

The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George
The Light We Lostby Jill Santopolo
A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
Aimless Love: New and Selected Poems by Billy Collins
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitgerald

Currently reading The Little Paris Bookshop (and LOVING it)–I’ll share my thoughts on the full novel in a few weeks. The Light We Lost was recommended by a friend and is one of Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club picks.

As for the first novel of Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series, I’ll be honest: I’ve been trying (and failing) to take the plunge and read the series for years. I’ve been obsessed with the show since season two debuted back when I was a senior in college, but I have yet to read the book series. Trying to make this the summer that I at least read the first one.

My best friend and I wanted to read a poetry collection that we haven’t yet done, and we chose Collins’s collection Aimless Love. And last, but certainly not least, I want to revisit one of my all-time favorite novels, The Great Gatsby. I try to reread this American classic every few years, and it’s one of those incredible books that no matter how many times I read it, I get something new out of it.

I would love to hear what you’re reading this summer! Have you made it through A Game of Thrones and the other books in the series, and/or are you a fan of the show? Are there novels you love that you reread over and over again? Let me know in the comments!

Have a great weekend everyone!

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You and Me

June 2, 2018by shakespeareloveschanel4 Comments

“If I know what love is, it is because of you.” –Hermann Hesse

In honor of our third wedding anniversary this week, I’m doing a special post for wedding season! I’m discussing style inspiration for engagement photos, bridal showers, wedding guests, and anniversaries.

For those of you in the Portland area, I’ll also be doing a brief recommendation of a few local businesses that we used for our own wedding day. But to start us off, I’m briefly sharing how my husband and I met.

I had just finished my freshman year at the University of Oregon, and I’d gotten a summer job at Abercrombie while I was back in my hometown. On my very first day at work, the manager was showing me around the store, and the first coworker she introduced me to was none other than Mark, my eventual husband.

My mom loves to tell the story of how I came home from my shift that evening and gushed that I’d met this cute guy at work, but that I didn’t think he’d noticed me. But then when I opened my laptop, turned out he’d already friend-requested me on Facebook (welcome to 2010 😉)! A couple weeks later he asked me out on our first date. Within a month, we were already talking about our future together.

We did the long distance thing until I graduated from college (he had already finished his bachelor’s degree when we met), and then we got engaged shortly after I started grad school. Now it’s almost been eight years since that fateful day in Abercrombie ❤️

Style Inspiration

From the engagement photos, to the bridal shower, to the wedding day, I’m sharing what I wore myself and great outfit options currently available for purchase online.

Engagement Photos

Black Dress: Cynthia Rowley (similar) Black Flats: Sam Edelman (similar) Men’s White Button-Up: J. Crew Men’s Jeans: Lucky Brand (similar)

Something I remember researching extensively when I was newly engaged was this: what should we wear for our engagement photos? I eventually came to two outfit options: one with a more classic appeal (above), the other with a colorful, summer vibe (below).

We took our photos in the Hayden Island area of Portland–a place with so many fun memories for us, where we love to go boating with family and friends.

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Red Dress: Topshop (similar here, here, and here) Heels: Christian Louboutin (similar) Men’s Chambray Shirt: J. Crew

This red floral dress is from Topshop (Topshop and Zara always have such cute dresses–I linked some current red/pink options above!). The heels are Christian Louboutin, and I’ve had them for several years. My husband’s J. Crew chambray shirt is such a great staple; something I love about J. Crew is that their basics are so timeless and durable.

Bridal Shower

Something fun about being a bride is all the opportunities to wear white and ivory! I adored the Diane von Furstenberg style I wore for my shower (still available online in multiple colors). It’s a classic sheath dress, and the ivory lace is so elegant and bridal. It would also be perfect for wedding guest attire in another color, such as the midnight blue.

My mom’s dress was purchased from Nordstrom and shows how you can never go wrong with florals for a shower. I’ve linked some great styles (here, here, and here) at various price points.

Wedding Guest Attire

So you’ve been invited to another wedding… What to wear?

Dress code, venue, weather–all these factors will help inform your decision. If it’s in a backyard or on a beach during the daytime, a flowy, floral dress would likely be perfect. At a traditional church, I personally would opt for a more modest silhouette. In a ballroom in the evening, you might want to err on the side of formal (a long gown or a fancy cocktail dress).

I’m really loving the dresses in the Gal Meets Glam Collection (I’m not affiliated with the brand, I just honestly love their dresses!). The styles are classic yet modern and would be perfect for brides-to-be, shower attendees, and wedding guests. This navy blue option I purchased recently would be perfect for a formal wedding! The midi length and off-the-shoulder style is so chic and elegant, and it’s also available in a pale blush tone called “ballet” that would be lovely for events for brides-to-be.

We have a wedding to go to next month and I’m honestly torn between the navy Gal Meets Glam and this floral Eliza J (definitely will do a full post on which dress I decide at that time).

The ruffles and print of this yellow gown are so fun and charming. Eliza J has a ton of great formal, floral, and cocktail dresses (unfortunately this exact yellow dress is only still available in a few sizes, but here, here, and here are some beautiful styles in similar silhouettes from that brand).

I think yellow is super on trend right now–did you see all the famous guests at the Royal Wedding wearing various shades of yellow?

The Wedding Day

As far as the wedding itself goes, each couple has their own desires, budgets, and unique styles. I’m going to briefly discuss a handful of Portland-area businesses that we used. But first, my biggest advice would be to stay true to your vision (and your budget!) for your wedding–like I said, everyone has their own styles, and what’s right for someone else may not necessarily be right for you. It can get difficult with the opinions of friends and family coming at you from all directions, but try to remember that this is your big day.

Ever since I was a little girl I knew I wanted a Cinderella-style ballgown and a long, cathedral-length veil (the veil Julie Andrews wore in The Sound of Music was always my inspiration). My dress was purchased from Bridal Exclusives and is by Allure Bridals. After spending my childhood in sparkly skating dresses (see this post for old skating pics!), I honestly didn’t think I’d want much of that reflected in my wedding dress. But surprise, surprise: the second ballgown I tried on–with the glittery, embellished bodice–was the ultimate winner!

The venue we chose was befitting of the gown: Portland’s historic Melody Ballroom, built back in 1925. I fell in love with the chandeliers, the high ceilings, and the elegant, antique feel. I truly can’t say enough great things about the amazing staff at the Melody, and my husband and I are so happy we went with them for both our ceremony and reception.

We used Chad Dowling Productions for our DJ, and he was phenomenal: super professional, detail-oriented, and did a superb job of pacing the reception. At other weddings we’ve attended, some DJ’s get too chatty with the audience whereas others don’t communicate effectively (more than one wedding I’ve been to, various table numbers were completely forgotten by the DJ when announcing tables for buffet-style dinner service). Our DJ, however, moved everything along seamlessly and is highly rated for weddings in the Portland area.

Last, but certainly not least, another business that I definitely want to mention is Dream Cakes. Our 3-tier, square cake that they created was truly an absolute dream (pun intended!). The buttercream frosting is the best I’ve ever had, and the bakery’s co-owner, Johannah, brought my vision for the cake to life.

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We just celebrated our third anniversary this week, and every year my sweet husband orders a mini cake from Dream Cakes. It’s a special tradition that we always look forward to!

Anniversary Dinner

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Floral Slip Dress: Billabong (similar here and here) Leather Jacket: Rubbish (similar here and here) Gladiator Heels: Nine West (similar) Lip Color: Liar (Urban Decay’s Revolution High-Color Lipgloss)

I also want to share what I wore for our anniversary dinner this week! We had fondue at the Melting Pot in downtown Portland, and since the weather was a bit windy, I knew I’d need a dress that paired well with a jacket.

I enjoy mixing feminine pieces like a floral dress with edgier ones–in this case, a cropped leather jacket and gladiator heels. My Billabong slip dress was a Nordstrom Rack purchase from earlier this year. My leather jacket is by Rubbish, and my heels are Nine West. Comparable options are linked above!

From single to married (and anything in between!), I wish you all love and happiness, and best wishes for wedding season ❤️

I’d love to hear in the comments any special wedding memories or traditions you may have with your significant others, or if you’re in the midst of wedding planning, how things are going!

Have a great weekend, and thank you for stopping by!

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April Showers and Wallflowers

April 16, 2018by shakespeareloveschanel2 Comments

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“And there are people who forget what it’s like to be sixteen when they turn seventeen. I know these will all be stories some day, and our pictures will become old photographs. We all become somebody’s mom or dad. But right now, these moments are not stories. This is happening…. You are alive. And you stand up and see the lights on the buildings and everything that makes you wonder. And you’re listening to that song, and that drive with the people who you love most in this world. And in this moment, I swear, we are infinite.”

–From The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

We drove down to my alma mater over the weekend to watch my younger sister compete in the Oregon Relays. It was a gray, blustery Saturday, but the University of Oregon campus is especially lovely during spring, and I always enjoy seeing the places I used to frequent–the beautiful Knight Library, my old dorm at Barnhart, and great local cafes where I would meet up with my best friend. Some buildings are new, some restaurants have closed, but the feeling I get when I walk around campus is much the same.

I always loved school–maybe it’s cliche but I loved being surrounded by knowledge and the people in pursuit of it. I personally believe in being a lifelong learner and that knowledge can be gained in so many places and experiences (not just in books or universities). But for me, there was something special about college–not only was I figuring out what I wanted in life and who I wanted to be, I was also fortunate enough to study a subject I truly enjoyed.

Walking around campus usually makes me pretty wistful, and this Chbosky passage came to mind. It’s one I often come back to, even though I first read this novel when I was a junior in high school. It’s a perceptive, coming-of-age story of a boy named Charlie, who is something of a wallflower (hence the title), and the people he meets who end up changing his life for the better.

I love this quote in particular because it’s ageless–it doesn’t just apply to sixteen or seventeen year olds. The experiences we have now will all be stories one day, stories we recall with our old college friends or stories we tell our kids around a campfire. It also eloquently describes this modern notion of “living in the moment”–particularly being present in a way we were when we were younger, when an experience was fresh and brand new.

I’ve always enjoyed the idea of a single moment making you feel infinite–you’re well aware that the moment will pass and will become part of that story you tell, but for a second? For just a second, that moment is all that you have.

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Hat: Portland Gear Vest: Nike (similar here and here) Sweater: H&M (similar here and here) Jeans: Hudson Boots: Blondo Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Clubmaster Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (almost identical option here)

We’ve had downpours, drizzles, and wind these past few weeks, and I dressed accordingly over the weekend, knowing that we’d be outside for much of it. If you can’t tell by now, I love black and white outfits–whether dressy or casual–and this look kept me cozy and comfortable while we watched my sister compete.

My black cap is from Portland Gear, a wonderful local company that makes hats, apparel, and souvenirs. My black puffy vest is Nike; only one size was left in this same style, so I also linked some similar options as well (also, fun fact for those of you who don’t know: Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, is a University of Oregon alumni). My striped sweater I purchased recently from H&M during their spring sale, and I found comparable styles (linked above). My distressed black jeans are by Hudson, my black pointy boots are by Blondo, and my sunglasses are my favorite Ray-Bans.

My black crossbody purse I’ve had for several years and is Marc by Marc Jacobs. Since 2016 the Marc by Marc Jacobs brand was combined with Marc Jacobs Collection (all items since that time have been under the label “Marc Jacobs”). That being said, I was able to find a Marc Jacobs purse almost identical in style to the one I have, and it’s on sale for under $70 on Nordstrom Rack’s website!

The flowers are in bloom but the weather hasn’t quite yet gotten the memo. Hoping for more sun in the days to come! Have a great week everyone, thank you for stopping by!

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The Roads We Take, The Dreams We Make

February 22, 2018by shakespeareloveschanel9 Comments

The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

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Once upon a time, I had big Olympic dreams of my own. For much of my childhood and adolescence, figure skating was my whole life. With each competition season came the excitement of new music and glittery, elegant dresses—though jumping and performing were probably my favorite things (I wasn’t only in it for the sparkle!).

With all this nostalgia brought on by the Winter Olympics these past couple weeks, the iconic Robert Frost poem, “The Road Not Taken,” kept coming to mind. Most people assume that the moral of this poem is to not be afraid to take the more difficult road, even if it’s not the popular one.

The oft-quoted lines are the final two: “I took the one less traveled by / And that has made all the difference.” However, an alternative interpretation has stuck with me since studying Frost in college, and it requires looking at the poem as a whole.

Frost is telling a story, where he was faced with two roads. He even admits that the road he ended up choosing was “just as fair” and that the two paths had “worn them really about the same.” After his choice, he says that he would likely never be in that exact place again—a metaphor, of course: in life, we aren’t usually presented with the same opportunities twice. We make a decision, we pick a route, and the course of our journey is changed forever.

Though eventual injuries and health issues took me off the ice at 15, the entire skating experience brought me such happiness. It taught me invaluable life lessons about self-confidence and perseverance. I learned that even when we fall, we must always get back up.

I chose to go down that road in the pursuit of a dream, and though it didn’t end where I hoped it would, I wouldn’t be who I am today without those 11 glorious years on the ice. In my opinion, that’s the point Frost was making—the roads we choose to go down shape us and our journey, whether it’s a rough path, a smooth one, or one that ends in a place different than we imagined. But it’s the choice, it’s the journey—that’s what makes “all the difference.”

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Sweater: H&M Jeans: Hudson Hat: Marc Jacobs (similar here and here) Skates: custom SP-Teri

We’ve had some snow this week in the Portland area, and, feeling that Olympic fever, I headed to a local rink to dust off my skates! I love this cozy off-the-shoulder sweater I recently bought from H&M (comes in five colors and is under $30!). My Marc Jacobs beanie is a few years old, but I linked some similar gray options above. My Hudson jeans are super comfy and stretchy—perfect for an afternoon of skating (especially since I’m not throwing double axels these days!).

P.S. Was anyone else blown away by Mirai Nagasu’s historic triple axel in the Team Event?! And Nathan Chen’s record-breaking quads?! So excited for the Ladies’ Free Skate!!!