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The Monogrammed Life


Planning Tips From Lindsey, Marleylilly’s Marketing Associate

Let's be honest, most of us have been planning our wedding day since we were little girls! We’ve daydreamed about the dress, the bridal party, the decorations, and most importantly, starting a new journey with the one we love! As someone who got married 3 years ago, I know how overwhelming all the details can become when planning a wedding! It’s so easy to get stressed out and forget to enjoy the planning process along the way. So, here are 5 tips to help our brides out there get ready for their big day!

1. Make A Checklist

First things first, take a deep breath! Remember that everything isn’t going to get done all in one day and that’s perfectly okay! Allow yourself to take one step at a time and not let the sheer amount of details overwhelm you. To ease the stress and help you get started, check out this wedding checklist on TheKnot.com. If you’re like me, I LOVE checking things off a list! This website also has a TON of resources, tools, and ideas to help you get through the early planning stages.


2. Get Personalized Gifts For The Wedding Party

It’s never too early to start getting gifts for your bridesmaids and bridal party! Need some ideas? Check out Marleylilly's super cute monogrammed bridesmaid gift set to ask your bridesmaids to be in your wedding! We love how cute the knot earrings go with the card that says, “I couldn’t tie the knot without you”! Marleylilly also carries monogrammed robes and wedding accessories that you HAVE to check out! It just doesn’t get more personal than monograms, folks! ;)


Also, don’t forget to get gifts for your mom and mother-in-law! It will mean so much to them to have something they can keep from your wedding day! Marleylilly also offers gorgeous monogrammed necklaces and jewelry that would make the perfect gift for anyone! This monogrammed pave set adds just the right amount of sparkle to every outfit! 


Make sure you remind your fiancé to purchase groomsmen gifts, too! Marleylilly also has personalized gifts for men, like the monogrammed cuff links below!


3. Choose A Theme That Reflects You & Your Fiancé

If you want your wedding to come together in a beautiful and seamless way, choose a theme that both you and your fiancé love! If this is one of the first things you do, it will already help narrow down your options! For instance, if you’re getting married in the summer, you might choose a beachy, pastel theme. Or, if you’re getting married in the fall, white pumpkins, burlap, and earthy tones might be more your thing! Whichever theme you choose, make it your own! Once you’ve picked a theme, check out these beautifully designed invitations on Minted! Since your “save the date” announcements and wedding invitations will be the first thing your guests see, it’s important that they reflect the theme you’ve chosen for your wedding ceremony and reception!


4. Let Your People Help You

One of the best things you can do for yourself is to recruit help from friends, family, and your bridal party! You don’t have to do everything alone! If you’re going to get through your wedding day without going crazy, trust me, you’re going to need help! Don’t rule out asking your fiancé for help, too! I got my fiancé to help me make phone calls to vendors, spray paint mason jars (LOL), and run errands which were a HUGE help. Need a little help getting everyone and everything organized all in one place? Treat yourself to a monogrammed notebook with your NEW INITIALS! :D It will definitely give you the motivation you need to start delegating tasks!


5. Choose A Honeymoon Destination Together

The best part of your wedding day will be when you and your husband drive away into the sunset and leave everyone and all those wedding details behind! Choosing a honeymoon destination that the both of you can enjoy is so important! This was a tough decision for me and my husband because we both have very different opinions about vacationing! I prefer going to the beach and he prefers camping and hiking! In the end, we decided on something totally out of the ordinary for both of us...Disney World! It was a blast and we still try to go back every year to celebrate our anniversary! To help you pick out the perfect destination, check out these honeymoon ideas on the WeddingWire! This website also has SUPER helpful wedding planning, tips, and tricks!


We hope this post has been helpful for all of our brides out there! And just remember, at the end of the day the only thing that truly matters is that you and your husband are finally MARRIED! When all is said and done, you probably won’t even remember all the small details you stressed over. But, you WILL remember the happiness and love you felt on that day. We wish you all the best and we hope you have the most wonderful and perfect wedding day! Congratulations! :)


Former brides, we would love to hear your wedding planning expertise! Leave your best tips in the comments below! 

Wednesday, February 28, 2018 No comments

"Try-On Tuesday" Recap From Marleylilly's Public Relations Coordinator

Hey, y'all! Happy Tuesday! In this week's "Try-On Tuesday", we went live on Facebook and Instagram. We talked through five new products that pair perfectly with the monogrammed bow clutch (pictured above). Through 2/28 only, spend $75 and receive this personalized clutch and free shipping! This is the perfect accessory for spring! Its soft champagne hues and silver shimmer tones will pair perfectly with your spring lineup. Need some shopping inspo to help you get started? Shop the recap below from today's "Try-On Tuesday"...

Monogrammed Boyfriend T-Shirt

This top is a Marleylilly staple, but now, you can style a spring look in two new colors -"black mini stripe" and "navy rose garden". This top is a must-have for spring and summer! It's very lightweight, flowy and the fit is very forgiving. For spring, I would wear this top with a white denim pant and some nude wedges for a casual daytime look.

Monogrammed Sleeveless Dress

This sleeveless sundress screams "meet me at the boardwalk for ice cream"! I can't wait to wear this to the beach! The pastel mint color with white tile detailing is perfect for any casual spring or summer occasion. To dress it up, pair it with some wedges and your monogrammed bow clutch for an effortless look. 



Monogrammed Romper

Summertime, meet the monogrammed romper in "rose garden"! I can't get enough of this darling new arrival! It's super lightweight and indescribably soft. Its faux-pocket detail is adorable! It also has a cinched waist, so your shape doesn't get lost in the torso!

Monogrammed Tunic Shirt

This top is basically the equivalent of leggings in a shirt form! The material is super buttery and breathable. It's the perfect transition piece from winter to spring. I would wear this outfit to a farmers market or to brunch with my girlfriends. Pair it with white shorts or your favorite boyfriend jeans and your OOTD is complete!



Pippa Dress in Blue

Last, but certainly not least, we have a special guest appearance from our sister site, Monday Dress. This dress is the perfect outfit for a spring wedding or shower. The blue is so delicate and the off-the-shoulder and tiered ruffle detail - I'm swooning! I can't wait to wear this dress with some strappy nude heels and a pair of statement earrings.



And that's a wrap! To view this week's live, click this link! Tune in next week for "Try-On Tuesday" to swipe the latest and greatest of Marleylilly's spring and summer collections!

Until next time -

Xo,

Emily 
Tuesday, February 27, 2018 2 comments

POCKET TEE DRESS (Similar HERE & HERE) | KIMONO | WEDGES | PURSE | NECKLACE | EARRINGS | WATCH
I am so excited to share with y’all that I’ve teamed up with Corkys Footwear again! They sent me a pair of  booties after Christmas and I fell in LOVE with them, they were so cute but also very comfortable! When I opened these gorgeous shoes I knew I was gonna love them as well, they are seriously SO comfortable! I will defiantly be buying the other color they have in these! It’s like walking on a cloud. If you are one that stays on your feet all day then you should look into purchasing a pair of these this spring/summer, you won’t regret it! Two great think that Corkys has to offer is they amazing shoe quality and their HUGE variety of shoes! (& they are super affordable!!) They have everything between booties to wedges. So go check their them out when you get a chance!













           
I’ve had this little t-shirt dress since last year but they are so easy to find I thought I would still wear it! I just love wearing t-shirt dresses in the spring, they are so comfortable and easy to style! My kimono is currently on sale for $17! It’s a great spring staple to have in your closet. Anyways, If you follow me on instagram make sure you go enter to win the giveaway I posted last night, I’m giving away some of my favorite skin care products by Soap & Glory! Well, thats all I’ve got for you today! Thank y’all so much for reading!
xoxo,
HaLee
**Thanks to Corkys Footwear for Sponsoring Today’s Post**
Photography by Melanie Stieffel

Written by Halee from Southern Glamour Blog

Monday, February 26, 2018 5 comments


So, for those of you who don’t know me (which is all of you), I am not a very skilled user of social media! I know, it’s so easy now, and there are a million ways to up your Instagram game, but I’ve just never had the time to delve into the app editing world and figure out how to get my aesthetic just exactly right. That is, until now!

The app I am reviewing today is called "A Design Kit", and it is created by the incredible "A Beautiful Mess" masterminds. I LOVE this app. I just do. It has so much to offer, and it’s just so darn easy to use. You really could just download it and figure it out on your own, but what’s the fun in that? Also, even though I’m a newbie, it’s been my job over the last week to research this very app and figure out some tricks and tips for you. So read on, and you just might get inspired! 


Quick Facts
Price: $1.99
Creators: A Beautiful Mess
Developers: A Color Story
Categories: Social Media, Text, Brushes & Design/Stickers


SOCIAL MEDIA

The pre-set cropping that "A Design Kit creates for you really takes the guesswork out of your social media posts! It’s always so disappointing when you go to post a picture and the Instagram crop ruins the feel of the photo! In the app, there are settings for an average Instagram post, a story rectangle, and a few more just for funsies. This is especially helpful when you are adding text to a photo! The app also gives you the option to tilt an awkwardly skewed photo that you thought was going to be artsy, but just turned out weird. In the walkthrough below, I walk you through the process of cropping a typical Instagram square plus added text!

TEXT

After you have selected a size for either a story post or a permanent post, you have the option to add graphics in multiple forms to the photo (woohoo)! We will start with the text component of the app. An easy slide up menu gives you a better view of your font options, and let me tell you, they are varied and wonderful! Serif, sans serif, typewriter, and anything else you could want. My one complaint? You have to purchase cursive fonts because absolutely none are available to you with just the app purchase. Bummer, but they have to make a living. 

BRUSHES

What I love about the brush element of this app is the fact that you’re not stuck with the original color or size once it’s drawn. You can change the fill and the size at any time with just your fingers! I would recommend getting a stylus pen to make writing a little easier on the small phone screen. The app's intent is for casual users to add graphics to images without an Adobe Creative Suite account, and it serves its purpose really well! "A Design Kit" is, however, is lacking some of the fine-tuning of Adobe Illustrator, obviously. The brushes can mimic a marker, pencil, thick paintbrush, and a few others that create really fun textures! You can choose from metallics, vibrant color gradients, and even marble patterns when deciding what your fill will be! 

***Also, just a little side note, if you choose a high contrast background, you can use the color picker aspect of the app to find the right fill for the text to make it pop! This also gives your edit a fun, trendy vibe (example on the Inspo Page). This is why they pay me the big bucks, people.
DESIGNS/STICKERS

Another feature of "A Design Kit" is the pre-made design that is available as additions to your photo! They include geometrical shapes, brushstroke patterns, and so many other cute graphics, and are pictured above! They can be placed behind text or other objects to give a neat background pattern. There are also a million stickers included with the app that can jazz up any dull photo. They’re also guaranteed to perk up your aesthetic quicker than you can say “popsicle!” Coincidentally, there is also a sticker of a popsicle. 

DESIGN INSPO

Alright, I have taught you all I know, so go forth and create! I bet someone famous said that at some point. Anyway, feel free to gain inspiration from any of my designs! Also, follow @adesignkit on Instagram because they are the masters, seriously! Also, they just got App of the Week, so good job, ladies! Thanks so much for reading!


XOXO


-Intern Sarah 
Friday, February 23, 2018 5 comments


How-To Style Guide from Mackenzie, Marleylilly’s Stylist and Marketing Associate

Picture this, you just shopped the HUGE warehouse clearance sale and scored some awesome outerwear deals for next year. Well, don’t put those cute pullovers away just yet because I’m here to show you how you can wear your winter outerwear into the spring season!



Is there a better duo than the monogrammed boyfriend sweater and your favorite pair of leggings? When it starts to warm up, switch out your leggings and throw on a cute jean skirt instead! Give the sweater a half-tuck and you’re good to go! This gives you a chance to show off your cute skirt and prevent your shape from getting lost in the sweater. Another styling tip - slightly roll up the sleeves, grab your go-to crossbody and throw on some sneakers for a comfy but super stylish OOTD!



The monogrammed quilted pullover tunic is the perfect outerwear piece for the “in between” period - when it’s warm enough to bear the beach, but it’s not quite time for bathing suit weather... we’ve all been there. For those breezy walks by the water, throw on your monogrammed quilted pullover tunic, your favorite pair of shorts and sandals and hit the sand!



Trade in those dark skinnies and booties for some trendy distressed jeans and a cute pair of espadrilles. This monogrammed tunic shirt is the wardrobe essential for the winter to spring transition! Wear it to a morning farmers market or brunch with the girls! This top is super lightweight. Add it to your cart - you’ll thank me later.

To make your closet transition easier, I have put together a basic list of everything you’ll need:

1. Light Wash Denim
Treat yourself to a pair of light wash denim jeans that feel like your fav leggings and go with everything! You will love these!

2. White Shorts and Pants
Ignore the "don't wear white before Memorial Day" rule and break out the white bottoms! It’s going to be the best way for those darker colors to pop. These fit so comfortably!

3. Closed Toe Sandals
Not all of us live at the beach, and even though the calendar says it’s ‘March’, the temperature says otherwise! Spare your piggies and find some cute espadrilles or slip-on loafers that will go with any outfit - like these from Monday Dress!

4. Cute Crossbody
The best kind of purse is one that is small enough to not take away from an outfit but loud enough to make a statement. Check this cutie out!

5. Bright Accessories
Brighten up those winter neutrals with accessories! Shop this monogrammed beaded bracelet set, this monogrammed suede bracelet and tiered tassel earrings in pink.


What are your "transition season" go-to's? Let us know in the comments below!

Xx,
Mackenzie





Wednesday, February 21, 2018 1 comments


Hi friends! For years I have colored my hair, and because of that I have had to test out 10000 different hair products in order to find some that keep my hair soft and healthy. As you probably know bleach = damage. Over the past 6 months I have been using some amazing products that have made my hair very soft, and corrected severe breakage and damage. I also started doing something to my hair in the shower that helps tremendously with breakage! Keep reading to find out about these products and tips for beautiful, healthy hair.



1. It’s a 10 Miracle Leave in Product | From the moment I started using this I have loved it. After I shower and slightly towel dry my hair, I spray this all throughout. It removes tangles and allows you to brush through your hair with ease. It also helps to smooth frizzy hair as it dries, and adds that extra needed moisture. Out of anything I am sharing with y’all, this one you for sure need. You can purchase it here, here or here.

2. Shuga Leave in Conditioner Spray | Ahhh this product. I am obsessed and have been using it for probably 4 years. I use this when I blow dry my hair. After blowdrying my hair halfway, and it is still a little bit damp, I spray this all over. Hold the bottle about 6 inches away from your head, spray and continue blowdrying. This makes my blown out hair SO soft, and it smells delicious. You can purchase it from Visible Changes, which is in most malls. Or you can purchase it online here.


3. Dry Bar Detox Dry Shampoo | I am a dry shampoo girl through and through. We all have those days when we really don’t feel like having to wash and style our hair, and thats when this bomb.com spray comes into play. I have tried 8 different dry shampoos and this one wins without question. Yes, it is $23, but a little bit goes a long way. I use the original sent in this spray. I like it a lot, and honestly am not sure what the other scents smell like. With just a few sprays my hair looks perfectly clean every time! All you have to do is spray it where your hair looks dirtiest and then rub it in with your fingers. Not only does it remove the grease, it also adds some volume! You can purchase it here, here and here.

4. Bed Head After-Party Cream | I love using this cream to help with frizzy hair and fly aways. After I curl or straighten my hair, I get a pea sized amount of this cream, rub it in my hands and then throughout my hair. I focus on putting it more at the top and the ends of my hair (where it gets most frizzy). It lasts a long time as a little bit goes a long way. Purchase it here and here.

5. Bed Head Dumb Blonde Shampoo | I always switch out my shampoos every time I run out, but I love this one! Smells amazing, and is very moisturizing. Get it here.

6. Bed Head Urban Antidotes Resurrection Shampoo | One of my other favorite shampoos. Smells like candy and is great for when my hair is feeling dry. Get it here.

7. Bed Head Urban Antidotes Recovery Conditioner | Love using this! Also smells like candy and is very moisturizing. Get it here.

TIP: When I am in the shower and have just put in my conditioner, I use this detangling comb to comb through my wet hair with the conditioner in it. This helps to reduce the amount of tangles, and also coats a lot more of your hair with the conditioner. I love what this quick little comb through does for my hair and I think you will too!



Original content written by The Perfect Blend
Monday, February 19, 2018 No comments


Athleisure picks from Kelsey, Marleylilly's Marketing Associate

Working out – it's a love/hate relationship for most of us. But, the cuter the clothes, the more motivated you are to work out, right? At least I like to think so!

Let's be honest, getting to the gym and pushing yourself to the limit can be quite the challenge. One of my main motivations for working out is that rush of endorphins you get right after an intense workout - you feel like a million bucks! Not only do you accomplish something physically, but also mentally! 

Working out is my "me time" – one of the only times I can check out from reality and turn off all the thoughts, worries and to-do's that are running through my mind. I like to work out hard so that all I think about is how much I want it to be over. #NoPainNoGain

My health and fitness goals are so important to me because I find that the more I work out, the better I feel and that tends to carry into my look. I also like to tell myself that cute athleisure clothes are part of the equation to the whole "look good, feel good" concept, so here are my top picks I'm sharing with you:

1. Lululemon - The Align Pant is literally as they describe – buttery soft! I have never put on any pair of leggings like it! The high waistband is a huge plus. They also offer this in a 7/8 pant and crops if you need a trim in length. I'm 5'4" and I personally like the 7/8 pant. Since they are a pretty penny, if you do choose to purchase, make sure you follow care instructions to maximize their wear.




2. Athleta – Athleta is slightly less expensive than Lululemon. I love open back tops and tanks to show off a strappy sports bra and this is one of my faves! Not to mention, I love all of the color options!



3. Marleylilly – Everyone needs a basic jacket to wear to and from the gym and this Monogrammed Yoga Jacket is perfect for that. It's made of a scuba-like material and has thumbholes (which I personally love). These Monogrammed Yoga Mats are also to die for! You can always use a quality yoga mat, so check out all the design options and be the talk of your next yoga class.

marleylilly, monograms, monogrammed jackets

marleylilly, monograms, cute yoga mats

4. Target JoyLab – Target, what's not to love? I recently discovered one of their new athleisure lines called JoyLab and I'm obsessed. You can't beat the prices. I personally own this sweatshirt and it's so soft and breezy!


5. Old Navy – Old Navy is one of my favorite places to purchase leggings from - they're great quality at an affordable price point! They have high waist options and also offer a 7/8 pant as well as crop and full length. This legging is one of my current favorites.



6. Forever 21 – I'm not a fan of actually shopping in-store - all the options are too overwhelming for me. However, they do have a lot of cute open back tanks and strappy sports bras for the best prices! I usually shop online and wait for free shipping and treat myself to a few tops or sports bras. I love this tank for under $10!





That wraps it up for now. Let us know your go-to athleisure brands and products in the comments below! 


Friday, February 16, 2018 No comments
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The Monogrammed Life

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Welcome to The Monogrammed Life, a fashion and lifestyle blog owned by Marleylilly - Monogrammed Gifts! Thanks for stopping by! We hope you'll stick around and find some inspiration here. Peace, love, and monograms!

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