coziness + handmade accessories

I love to shop handmade.
There's something really exciting and extraordinary about owning something (art, clothing, jewelry, anything) that was made by someone else.
That's one of the reasons I really love Etsy - it's like the Ebay of handmade items.
People from all over the world can have their own "shop" in electronic form, showcasing their talents and selling their goods.

I own a little shop called Posies by Cait.
I have met hundreds of amazing people and seen hundreds of beautiful shops throughout my time on Etsy.
Recently, my cousin started her own Etsy shop, and sent me this incredible set!

It made my cozy Friday even cozier, and I can proudly say that her items are well-made, soft, and adorable.

Top: Anthropologie, Cardigan: Banana Republic (similar), Pants: Forever 21 (shop!)
Shoes: Urbanog (shop Ruche!), Headwarmer/Scarf: Roo's Loop De Loops (shop!)
Bracelet: Kate Spade 

I would highly recommend snatching up an adorable headwarmer/scarf set for yourself or a friend this winter and spring!
As a special to my blog readers, use code "Posies" for 10% off in her shop.
Can't get any better than that! Go now!
If you get one, please let me know which one and how you like it! I'd love to see them.

I hope you all have an amazing week. Mondays usually give me the blues, but I'm looking forward to every night this week. It's gonna be a good one!

See ya,
Cait

gifts: valentine's day

We're only a few days away from the month of love!
February is characterized by bright reds and pinks, flowers and candies, friends and loved ones.
Love is truly in the air in the weeks surrounding Valentine's Day.

However, I think it should be a time to celebrate all the forms of love in your life. All those relationships that are dear to you.
I remember growing up and not being able to wait until I could give away some little Happy Valentine's Day cards to all my favorite friends.
I don't remember when I stopped doing that. Probably around the same boy-crazy time when Valentine's Day became all about cute guys, and not as much about friends and showing love to those you care about.
So plan to celebrate this year with some sweet accessories, lots of desserts, and a few dates with your favorite people! Whether that be your best friends, your sister, your mother, or your husband/boyfriend.
Take the time to send a card or a gift to show someone they're loved this February!

Ruby Red Kiss Earrings, from Ruche

Card by Rifle Paper Co., from Ruche

Sweet mini brooches, by Sweetkeetle on Etsy

Valentine's Day studs, by Posies by Cait on Etsy

Hand-embroidered necklace,
by Poppy and Fern on Etsy

Chocolate lollipops, by Xocolatl Chocolate on Etsy

Funny Valentine's Day Card, by Wit and Whistle on Etsy

Little Envelopes Studs, by Rare Indeed on Etsy

Hand-sculpted Book Necklace, by A Child of Whimsy on Etsy

Red Heart Earrings, by Chelsea Girl Designs on Etsy

E.E. Cummings Print, by Old English Co. on Etsy

Red and Lace Pendant Necklace, by The Whirlwind on Etsy

Strawberry Chocolate Truffles, by Xocolatl Chocolate on Etsy

Etsy is a ridiculously great place to look for unique gifts for any occasion!
Handmade and often one-of-a-kind, you can pretty much find anything and everything you're looking for, from small business men and women around the world.

What are your favorite gift ideas for Valentine's Day?
Any outfit ideas, or favorite places to go for a date night?

Dustin and I are planning on a romantic dinner out and a movie. Classic!
Last year, I also decorated the apartment for Valentine's Day and had a bunch of girlfriends over for a chick-flick movie night. It was a blast!

Whatever your plans are, enjoy preparing for the month of love and treat yourself to a truffle or two. ;)

Cait