Friday, 27 April 2012

Fo & Tell: Spring = Wedding Dress Season!

We missed you! My lovely cousin Francisca is back with FO & Tell and she's been trying on wedding dresses...sort of.



It's a well-known fact I hate St. Patrick's Day. I'm not sure why, really. 

I love Conan O'Brien, french fries (potatoes) & money (green), but every year that day simply makes me want to hide indoors and under the covers. My friends have theories about me and a bad leprechaun incident when I was younger...


Anyways, NOTHING could make me head uptown towards New York City’s St. Paddy’s Day parade on that Saturday morning back in March to be trodden by hundreds of men, women and residents of New Jersey cloaked in shamrocks, itty bitty leprechaun hats and beer EXCEPT for a 10.00 am appointment at Saks Fifth Avenue to help one of my best friends find her wedding dress. 

This bride-to-be is one of the coolest New Yorkers I know, so I couldn’t turn down a front row invite to her winter white fashion show on the brink of spring's start. 

The time playing dress up was guaranteed to be fabulous; she's a graphic designer with a minimal but modern taste (ahem, she’s getting hitched at the über avant-garde New Museum) – so I knew everything she’d try on would be exquisite.

The hour watching her float in Disney fairytale gowns at the iconic NYC store was both surreal and unexpectedly educational/slightly overwhelming. You have to make appointments months in advance to try things on?  You don't actually get fitted for the gown until a month or so before your ceremony? You can have a bra built into your dress?

I learned the pros and cons of veils, the tricks of poufy versus not, and that Kate Middleton and Ivanka Trump single handedly shifted the trend away from the sweetheart neckline. My head's spinning as I write.

My gal pal tried on varying styles - from geometrically mod to channeling Natalie Portman as the White Swan. 

Below are a few of my favorite pieces from Saks’ Christos trunk show





So gorgeous! 

If you were a bride to be, which dress would be your dream gown?



Wednesday, 25 April 2012

Explore your wild side: Animal prints

I never thought of myself as an animal prints kind of gal, but after being sent this gorgeous Fraas leopard print scarf, I soon realized how easy it is to wear and not as difficult as I thought it would be to style.

I quickly adapted my new Fraas scarf to my look, teaming it up with a navy pencil skirt, a striped long sleeve shirt and a red belt.

Just a few months ago I would have been afraid to mix stripes with prints or even wear too much color,  but I have come around to taking more fashion risks and feel more comfortable experimenting with different looks.



Scarf - Fraas :: Striped long sleeve shirt & belt - Primark :: Turquoise sandals & Sunnies - Target
Navy pencil skirt - MNG from JCP :: Tan bag - Esprit


But wait! Digging through my closet a bit more, I realized that I actually did have somewhat of a "wild" side when I found a few items with animal prints. 

Print blouse from Gap

I bought this when I was a lot heavier and needed a loose fitting shirt to wear to work with a blazer or cardigan.

Bow and print flats from Clarks as seen here

Well, I didn't exactly forgot about these, I wear them almost everyday, but I thought that was it for the animal prints.

KushyFoot Zebra Print Flats to go as seen here

Of course! Silly me, I have these flats to go that were stashed in my other handbag. I mean, zebra hello?!

And lastly, I bought these "cheetah pantalones" as Little M calls them at Target for $22. 

I tried them on out of curiosity never really expecting to actually take them home with me, but...well, you know.. we had a connection and since the price was so nice, they were MINE!

Color block top - Marshalls :: 
Leopard print jeans - Target 


Bracelets - Stella & Dot (Kristin Biggs) :: 
Flats - Clarks

I wore them to a networking event recently and everyone complimented me on them, so they certainly make a statement.

And about shopping my closet, I tell you, I am always surprised at what I find. I actually have some pretty good stuff, like that blouse. I had completely forgot about it.

To me animal prints always seemed tacky and more a look for that crazy cat lady neighbor everyone seems to have. But animal prints have come into mainstream, everyday style and it can actually be very versatile combining it with different colors and patterns. Now I am of the opinion that everyone should own at least one animal print item of clothing or accessory to give your look an edge.

My advice is to start slow and small , just like when I talked about embracing color.

You may want to try accessories such as a headband or even a bracelet and then work your way down to a printed top, scarf or hell, just for for the jeans.

So don't be afraid to explore your wild side and let the animal in you come out!



*Sharing this over at What I Wore Wednesday with Transatlantic Blonde*


Tuesday, 24 April 2012

Trendy Toddler | Sunuva UV Swimwear & Beachwear giveaway

Remember last week I was going around getting ready for my brother in law's wedding? Happy to say Little M made it down the aisle and back. We had some stressful moments, but we made it through the ceremony. Besides, afterwards I enjoyed the open bar and danced my worries away!

Now it's Tuesday and here at the Very Busy Blog that means it's all about kids fashion.

This week I am very excited to announced that UK swim and beach wear brand Sunuva have teamed up with Little M and I to bring you a very special giveaway. Sadly, I don't have a picture of my little guy wearing his new Skulls and Strawberry Swimshorts but trust me, they are delectable.

Really, how can you possibly resist these?


Sunuva is a UK based company started by two moms, sorry mums, who were both frustrated at the lack of stylish UV protective children’s swimwear available. They felt that the few items on the market were often garish in color and unattractive. Definitely NOT a great look for holiday snaps! 

So they began a  journey and set out on a mission to create a swimwear and beachwear line which was not only super stylish and cool but also kept their kids safe in the sun. They wanted to encompass a boho style which they both love and at the same time creating a quality product with a particular function. So began Sunuva. 

In the US they are sold at Lemonade in New York and 98% Angel in Malibu as well as selling last seasons stock through Gilt. In the UK they are at Harrod's and Fenwicks as well as independent boutiques. However, they sell and ship worldwide via their site.

They have a lovely range of boys and girls swimwear and beach accessories including hats, bags, totes, and a few cover ups and sundresses for us moms!


Win ONE piece of swimwear of your choice!

So this week, everyone who links up with Trendy Toddler and has our badge on their post or links back to us will be automatically entered (you get TWO entries) to win ONE piece of swimwear from Sunuva (either a swimsuit, bikini, rash vest or a pair of shorts) of their choice as long it is in stock and available.

They ship worldwide but are not responsible for any extra customs charges that may be added on. Please note, if you are participating in Trendy Toddler by linking up, you DO NOT need to enter on Rafflecopter. Just LIKE Sunuva on Facebook.

I am opening this contest up to others not linking up, but they must enter via Rafflecopter. Winner will be announced next Tuesday.

The link up rules

1. Display our badge on your post or blog and link back to us. I ask that you please do this :)

Photobucket
Grab the button,

show your style and link to us!




2. Don't be shy, tweet me to let me know you have linked up so I can RT @verybusymama
3. Please comment after you leave your link 
4. Visit other blogs and remember link is open through Saturday
5. I will share your post on Facebook and tweet them throughout the week
6. Please LIKE Sunuva on Facebook

For those NOT participating in Trendy Toddler, but want to enter to win please enter via Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you and goooooood luck!


Thursday, 19 April 2012

Go green, go gorgeous | Eco Swim by Aqua Green

Never in a million years did I think I would ever do a post on swimwear and include a picture of me. NO CHANCE! But, low and behold I've gone and done just that. 

I was asked my ECO SWIM BY AQUA GREEN, a fourth generation US business that makes the only "green" swimsuits on the market and whose motto is "reduce your carbon footprint in the sand" to review their summer 2012 line. 

That's right! A swimsuit made from recycled materials!


I was hesitant at first because it's been about six years since I have worn a bathing suit (it's true!) but after seeing their stylish choices and being intrigued by their environmentally friendly products I thought I would go for it. Besides, Little M has been asking me to take him swimming and now that I've lost 12 lbs with Medifast I a m feeling way more confident. 

I wanted something cute with a retro feel. I chose the Classic Sweetheart one piece and the fit is absolutely perfect. It hugs you in just the right places and it gives your bust a sexy yet comfy boost without the fear of slipping out. 

I didn't feel self conscious at the pool and the pleats in the front mean I don't have to suck in my tummy all of the time. Even the Mr. said it was the best swim suit he had ever seen me wear. And to to think this gorgeous swimsuit is made from recycled plastics!
I had a quick chat with Sandra Davidoff, Eco Swim's Director of Corporate PR and I asked her a few questions about the line and to make sure I got the green side of things right!

VBM: What exactly is "sustainable swimwear"?

ECO SWIM: Launching the first commercially viable fashion collection of swimsuits comes with a huge responsibility.  We embrace sustainability in every aspect of the garment.  The fabrics used are made from certified post consumer and recycled components, as are the elastics and bra cups.

  • We are made in the USA, which reduces the use of fossil fuels up to 96.9%.*
  • All linings are made of recycled fabric derived from post consumer waste, such as recycled water bottles and plastic bags.
  • All zippers are made from recycled materials, grommets and snaps are recyclable and drawstrings are organic cotton.
  • All bra cups are made from Eco Cell foam, a biodegradable material made from plant oils and recycled materials.
VBM: So I'm wearing water bottles and plastic bags?! Wow, I would never know by the feel of it. So if you could tell me your mission statement in one sentence, what would it be?

ECO SWIM: Simply stated, our goal is to provide garments that look good, feel good and are good for the environment…that's why we say: ECO SWIM BY AQUA GREEN Go Green, Go Gorgeous!

VBM: Absolutely! Green & Gorgeous, works for me! So what the swimwear trends for this summer?

ECO SWIM: Lots of color!  From soft pastels to sunburst brights, the season will be awash with vibrancy!  Warm tone chocolates to caramels, sea blues to vivid reds, burnt orange to sun kiss yellows in tribal prints,prism prints, bold linear graphics, florals are so in…and of course, black and white prints are so fresh again.  Baby pastels make a comeback for those feminine florals that are the rage.  Play on animal prints…still so strong.   Details such as bows, belts, drawstrings are strong and as are retro swim dresses.

VBM: I love my black and white polka dot one piecedefinitely a retro feel and perfect for my body type. So lastly, which one is your favorite?

ECO SWIM:  adore the flirty bow dress and best yet, our consumers agree…it’s one of our top retailing styles!  I also love our polka dot ring 2pc as well as our tiered solid halter bikini.

Check out a selection of the line in this video




A few retailers where you can purchase Eco Swim online:
Belk
Macys
Nordstrom
Lord & Taylor
Everything But Water
Dillards

Prices range from $45 - $100.

Find Eco Swim on Facebook and Twitter

So are you swim suit ready yet??

Linking with Monday Mingle with MomTrends


*I was not compensated for this post, but was sent the swimsuit for review*


Wednesday, 18 April 2012

Blogger Essentials: Win 250 biz cards from UPrinting

Two years ago on the 18th of April I began my life as a blogger on Mummy's Busy World.

Little did I know the doors it would open for me both professionally and personally. My family and I have had some amazing opportunities and none of it would have been possible without an audience. So of course I take pride in my work and make every effort to promote myself. After all, actors want their films to be seen, singers want to be heard and us bloggers, we want to be read.

Weeks before my first ever blogging conference in the UK I rush ordered a few hundred business cards after hearing about other bloggers getting theirs ready. 

I'm always on top of my game, but it had never occurred to me get some for my blog. Fast forward to 2012, a second blog, my own PR & Social Media shop and I'm scouring the internet for sweet deals on business cards because as I always say, if you don't promote yourself, who will? Business cards have certainly become blogger essentials.

With all my new freelance work coming in and this blog (which I don't have cards for by the way) I jumped all over this opportunity from UPrinting to run a business cards printing quickie giveaway so that one of you lovely readers could win 250 Die-cut Business Cards to go out and promote yourselves and receive them myself as well.


The dimensions are very specific but you can see the samples in the picture above which are: 2×3.5″ Rounded Corners, 2×2″ Rounded Corners, 1.75×3.5″ Rounded Corners, 2×3.5″ Leaf, 2×3.5 Rounded one corner, 2×3.5″ Half-Circle Side, 2×3.5″ Oval, OR 2.5″ Circle 14pt Cardstock Gloss / Matte / High Gloss (UV), or 13pt Cardstock Uncoated. 

I know, a lot to read, but you have definitely have some choices. There is also a six business days print turnaround time (so make sure you order with enough time for your next event) and there is free shipping only in the US.

I am personally liking the leaf style, however I may end up with the rounded corners which I often use for my images. 


Hmmm? I am going to look around and start working on my design!

Enter to win (US only)
Good luck!

Tuesday, 17 April 2012

Trendly Toddler: Wedding shoes

It goes without saying, I have too much to do and no time to do it in. Add getting ready for a wedding in Upstate New York this weekend and looking for shoes for the cutest ring bearer in town and well I'm all over the place. Mostly my fault, I do tend to leave things to the last minute. Oops!

Anyway, here's a sneak peek at my mini Don Draper/James Bond in his tux. I want to save the wedding pictures for after the event.


Yesterday afternoon I ran out to find a smart pair of black dress shoes for him and I got lucky at the first store I went into: JC Penney or JCP (not sure what it goes by).

I actually laughed out loud when I saw them because they look exactly like the Mr's shoes and they just looked so big! When the salesman measured his foot and we tried them on, they still looked big but he said its because of the pointed toe.


Little M looked to grown up, I couldn't stop staring at him. Now I just hope he can walk in these!

They were not inexpensive, but it could have been worse. I got them for $25, but at this point time is precious and I wasn't about to go running around the mall looking for another pair. Time is money after all and we were out of there pretty fast and made our way to the park.

So that's us for this week!

WIN IT! 
Custom made SqueakerBeeBow

We have a special little giveaway for all the lovely girls who like to wear bows in their hair!


Amanda from SqueakerBeeBows is giving one lucky winner a cute hair bow. This one was sent to me, and I'm keeping it in a safe place (let's hope when the time comes the stork brings me a girl!) And if you place your own order, you get free shipping when you use VERYBUSYMAMA.

She custom makes every bow and even takes special requests, you can see her creations on her Facebook page. Anything from themes like Harry Potter or Disney! This is US only, sorry mummies but I have more international giveaways coming up.

All you have to do is link up your post here and LIKE SqueakerBeeBows on Facebook to be entered and while you are there, why not say hello!

Good luck!

Linky is below and stays open until Saturday.

1. Display our badge on your post or blog and link back to us. I ask that you please do this :)

Photobucket
Grab the button,

show your style and link to us!





2. Don't be shy, tweet us to let mami know you have linked up and she can RT @verybusymama
3. Please comment after you leave your link
4. Visit other blogs and remember link is open through Saturday
5. Mami will also share your post on Facebook and tweet them throughout the week


*Interested in sponsoring Trendy Toddler Tuesday and having us feature you? 
Then get in touch majoseovalle AT gmail DOT com for details*



Monday, 16 April 2012

Meet Kristin & WIN a Femme Fatale Stella & Dot Necklace

I am very excited to introduce to you my friend and Stella & Dot stylist Kristin Biggs. She is a mommy to two little boys, lives in Washington, DC and loves her bling.

Say hello to Kristin!


We have teamed up to bring you a fabulous giveaway. 

Yes, that's right, one lucky reader will win this gorgeous Femme Fatale Necklace ($118) that I featured last week


I tell you, this necklace is not only beautiful, but it is so versatile and can be worn with anything. 

It does weigh a little bit, and I can only describe it as wearing beautiful armor. It  makes you feel like you can go out and take on the world! 




All eyes will definitely be on you when you wear this baby!

Now if you don't know Stella & Dot, they are a San Francisco based social selling company that creates flexible entrepreneurial opportunities for women. Their boutique-style jewelry and accessories line is available exclusively through in-home trunk shows and events by Independent Stylists like Kristin and online. 

Stella & Dot have made their way across the pond and Kristin is looking to build a Great British team of stylists. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get looking at Stella & Dot and if you fancy knowing how you can start your own business or you just want to host a trunk show (which can earn an average $250 in jewelry for yourself), just contact me or Kristin via Facebook.

Open to US and UK only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

And if you are in the Washington, DC area, don't miss Kristin styling the models for the Nova Fashion Week Behind the Scenes Event on May 4th at The Artisphere in Arlington. Tickets are $15.

Good luck and believe me, you will be one very happy gal!


Sharing this with the ever glamorous Glamamom for Monday Mingle



*I received this necklace for the purpose of the review and giveaway*


Friday, 13 April 2012

Fashion Friday: New do, sunnies & fur

It's been a whirlwind of a week.

All mothers can say that, but when you add new PR and Social Media clients coupled with general life happenings, hanging out with my boys, writing this blog, attending networking events and have somewhat of a social life, it all catches up with you in the end.

Last night I crashed. Well yesterday afternoon, but I had to soldier on. I couldn't even drive I was so shattered. I couldn't move and I just made my way to my bed and ......that's all I remember.

Today, I feel like I have a hangover, but better rested if that makes sense.

Anyway, yesterday I had my hair done by the lovely Sue at W Salon here in Burke (Northern Virginia for all you UK folks). I met Sue and her sister Souny at a Moms in Business Networking event at Undeniable Boutique in Fairfax hosted by Super Nova Mommy and it was like magic...instant chemistry and despite having a hair appointment at another salon, I cancelled and went to her.

I hadn't had a cut or color since I left London in October and I was in dire need to some loving and some serious loving it what I got!

Finally, some COLOR!

Sue my stylist...how cute is she? And yes, we are very short!

My new short (and blonder) do
Sunnies from Target

And because it's Fashion Friday out there in the blogosphere, here is my weekly contribution:


Clarks leopard print flats as seen here
Primark Skinny Jeans as seen a million times on me
Primark red belt as seen here
Yellow cardigan as seen here
Marks & Spencer top as seen here
Faux Fur vest from.....COSTCO!

See, you can find something stylish just about anywhere. Make sure to check out W Salon on Facebook or even better stop by their Burke location and tell them Very Busy Mama sent you.

Have a lovely weekend everyone!

Beso

I'm linking with: 


*I was not compensated for this post. I was a paying and very happy customer at W Salon*



Wednesday, 11 April 2012

Medifast Update: I'm stuck!

I knew this would happen, it always does when you are on a weight loss plan...I'm stuck!

I am very happy so far, believe me! I have lost 11 lbs on Medifast in 5 weeks, but I think my body has got used to the plan and the scale is not moving.

Truth be told, it's been a hectic few weeks, little sleep, stressed out and then Easter lunch with the family made it difficult to stay on track. And let's not talk about the Easter chocolate! Ay, Dios mio!




BUT, I know the real reason...I haven't done any exercise since the half marathon and I know that is just what I need to get to push me to lose another 10 lbs. My goal was 20 to 30 lbs and I am half way there.

So far it feels great; dresses fit better, I even wore a bathing suit and took my son to the pool without feeling super self conscious, I bought bright jeans and my shoes feel loose!

 I realized this when I put on these pink low heeled pumps I haven't worn in a year and they didn't pinch at the sides.


Any way, I've talked about it before, I am super happy with Medifast, and I've become comfortable with it. You have five of their meals a day and one of your own which consists of a lean protein with veggies.

A typical day on Medifast for me goes a little something like this:

8.00am - Up and at 'em and coffee!
8.30am - Medifast Peach Oatmeal
10.30am - Medifast Cappuccino
12.30pm - Lunch time! Medifast Chicken Soup or if I'm out then the Oatmeal Crunch Bar
2.30pm - Medifast Strawberry Shake
3.30pm- Medifast snack with Coke Zero
7.00- 7.30pm - Dinner! Grilled Chicken with veggies (green salad, tomatoes)
9.30pm - Medifast Chocolate Mint Soft Serve (Mmmmm, my fave!)

And I've been drinking loads more water, mainly thanks to Brita who sent me their new water bottle that have built in filters.  Perfect for us tap water lovers and environmentally friendly...yep! One filter can replace 300 plastic bottles.

I carry it with me everywhere I go (but I have to stop and use the toilet more than Little M!) otherwise, the only fluids I drank were coffee and Coke Zero (so baaaaad, I know!)


So for these next few weeks I need to get my self into gear and get away from the computer and out the door for a run. I know what needs to be done, it's just a matter of DOING IT!

And if you are on a weight loss journey or want to get started and want to have a go with Medifast, they have a fantastic customer saving program and you can use my coupon code:  BUSYMAMA56, and sign up for Medifast Advantage. Also when you order $250+, you’ll receive 56 free Medifast Meals and free shipping! 

Here are the details:
For your first order of $250+, use my code, and enroll in Medifast Advantage to receive 28 free meals. 



Do the same on your next order and you’ll receive ANOTHER 28 free meals! This offer is only valid if you enroll in Medifast Advantage, and it’s limited to one per customer. It’s not valid with prior purchases, any other promotions or discounts, or for Medifast Ready-to-Drink Shakes. Sorry!

If you have any questions, leave me a comment and I'll answer it in my next post and mention your site. And if I can't answer it I'll make sure to get someone from the Medifast team to help you out.  

I've got my game face on and I'm ready to make my weight loss goal!

P.S. I started this weight loss plan in order to have a healthier pregnancy (when it happens) I've started taking pre-natal vitamins and I'm feeling broodier than ever!

Tuesday, 10 April 2012

Trendy Toddler: Egg hunt style

Sorry, sorry! Been working away all weekend.

As some of you know, I am doing PR and Social Media work for two clients, Stella & Dot Stylist Kristin Biggs and Nova Fashion Week (check them both out and tell them I sent you!) and needless to say, I'm tired, but thrilled!

So how was everyone's Easter?! I'm sure you all have some mega cute outfits to share! Truth be told, Little M just wore a simple jumper with a striped polo and his Osh Kosh jeans as you saw a few weeks ago right here on Trendy Toddler.

However, a few days before Easter, we went on an Easter egg hunt at our friend Trey's house from The Mommies Made Me Do It, and needless to say, the little guy arrived in style. He ended up playing in the water and getting soaked but he was having the time of his life!

This was how he showed up for the egg hunt...




Red Polo from The Children's Place
Blue Half Zip Top from Target (gift from his tía Denise)
Black Cords from Gymboree (he got for his birthday)
Plaid Boat Shoes from Target (I got those for hiim! I couldn't resist!)

Pretty stylin' little man, right? I love the rolled up sleeves. Now I know you want to show us what you got, so off you go!

Linky is below and stays open until Saturday.

1. Display our badge on your post or blog and link back to us


Photobucket
Grab the button,

show your style and link to us!




2. Don't be shy, tweet us to let mami know you have linked up and she can RT @verybusymama
3. Please comment after you leave your link
4. Visit other blogs and remember link is open through Saturday
5. Mami will also share your post on Facebook and tweet them throughout the week


*Interested in sponsoring Trendy Toddler Tuesday and having us feature you? 
Then get in touch majoseovalle AT gmail DOT com for details*




Monday, 9 April 2012

3 days, 3 ways: Green Jeans & Femme Fatale Necklace

I don't know about you, but when I get something new, I tend to wear it more in the beginning and play around with different looks.

This weekend I pretty much stayed in my Old Navy green jeans that I got a few weeks ago and wore my new Femme Fatale Necklace that was given to me by Washington, DC Stella & Dot Independent Stylist Kristin Biggs. I mixed them both with different tops and shoes and this is what I came up with.

Here are the looks day by day

FRIDAY
Cool, windy and sunny day


Old Navy Green Jeans as seen here
Cath Kidston Floral Top as seen here
Clarks tan and black bow flats as seen here


SATURDAY
Dinner in Old Town, Alexandria and needed to keep warm in the evening


Esprit Bag as seen here
Old Navy Sweater


SUNDAY
Easter Mass in the morning, Easter egg hunt with Little M, then a family lunch


Top by Loft (circa 2009)
Pink blazer from Belk
My sister's tortoise shell sunnies from Target
Marks & Spencer Pink low heeled pumps 

What do you think? Casual, but the green jeans give it a spring edge. I had some major color blocking going on there at the end and that floral top was a maternity blouse that was shrunk in the dryer and it is perfect now!  


And let's talk about the Femme Fatale Necklace!!! Gorgeous, right? 

Well, don't go too far because I have a fab Stella & Dot giveaway coming soon that Kristin and I are working on. In the mean time, check out her Stella & Dot page and keep up with her on Facebook to see even more gorgeous bling. 


Sharing on Monday Mingle at Bon Bon Rose Girls