Hey sweet friends!! I wanted to share some of my favorite beauty products that I use and wear everyday that are on sale today!! This post is going to be a little quick and to… More
Welcome to Indy, Macaron Bar!
Hi friends!
I am so excited to let you guys know the Macaron Bar in Indianapolis on Mass. Ave is officially open and taking over the world. Well, my world. Lol.
If you don’t know, the Macaron Bar is basically the coolest place ever. They specialize in making and selling classic French macarons (that’s only one ‘O’) and they’re the only bakery dedicated to macarons in Cincinnati, Pittsburg, Louisville, and now Indy! They offer over 10+ flavors daily and have seasonal flavors added in as well. They also offer classes so that you can learn their techniques and tricks and make them at home. And trust me, you’ll need all the tips and tricks you can get. These guys are hard to perfect. I’m still very far off from perfecting mine, but attending the event at the Macaron Bar last week with the ladies of the Indy Blog Society sure did help.
The Macaron Bar started in 2014 in Cincinnati, and has expanded into 3 more cities in the last 4 years. Cincinnati native Nathan Sivitz, our instructor for the evening, helped launch the brand in 2014 and even took a macaron master class in Paris, France. So basically he knows what he’s doing.
Nathan walked us through the basics and the process of creating the traditional, French macaron. I was like a little kid in a candy shop. If you didn’t know, I have loved to bake and cook my whole life, and the only channel I watch on TV is the Food Network. Every since I was a little girl, I wanted to open my own pastry shop and use the word “eclair” only spelled “Eclaire” somewhere in the title. I have always wanted to be on some form of competition show on the Food Network. So basically standing in the kitchen, watching him whip up some macarons, felt like I was on “The Holiday Baking Championship”, and everything was okay in the world.
The basics of a French macaron are: powdered sugar, almond flour, room temperature egg whites, and granulated sugar. Fun fact: they do not flavor the cookies themselves, they only flavor the filling! Each macaron has the same cookie, with a different color added, and a different flavored filling.
If you add flavorings to the cookie itself, you risk messing up the consistency and texture. If you add the wrong kind of food dye (liquid) you can also mess up the cookie.
Sift. Whip. Fold. Cut. Scoop. Turn. Fill. Pipe. Drop. Set. Bake. Got all that?
Like I said, these little guys are challenging to make, but well worth the perseverance and endurance. Not sure what any of what I just said means? Perfect! You’re the perfect candidate to attend one of their unique classes!
They offer classes for anyone at any stage in the baking process! If you’re brand new to the world of macarons, they have a class for you! If you’re more advanced or need some decorating guidance, they have a class for you! If you have a child who loves to bake, they have a class for them!
If you’re interested in attending a class, book HERE!
I got to try my hand at a few of the steps along the way during our event, and I can tell you that I will definitely be back to further my knowledge of the French macaron, as well as perfect my technique! Even though, my fiancé will still eat them despite their density, texture, and cracks! Lol.
If eating is more your speed, the Macaron Bar Indy is located at 425 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN, 46204, open:
- Monday – Thursday: 12 pm – 9 pm
- Friday: 11 am – 10 pm
- Saturday: 9 am – 10 pm
- Sunday: 11 am – 8 pm
Be sure to check them out on Instagram for local updates and seasonal flavor additions: Macaron Bar on Instagram and like them on Facebook!
Thanks so much for stopping by! And thank you to the Macaron Bar for having me!
Skincare Must Haves with Advanced Clinicals
Hey friends!!
Sorry I’m really bad at this whole blogging thing. One day I’ll post consistently lol
Today I am sharing some newfound loves of mine, that I’ve added into my skincare routine: the Advanced Clinicals Retinol & Collagen formulas! They have both serums and lotions in these lines, and they’re all amazing! These Advanced Clinicals products are available at select Walmart stores nationwide!
But I’m getting ahead of myself. Who’s Advanced Clinicals? I’m glad you asked! They’re a skin care line focused on “problem solving,” using only high-quality ingredients backed by science at AMAZING prices!!
All Advanced Clinicals products retail for $30 and under. That’s basically unheard of when it comes to skincare! And this stuff actually works!!
Okay, where were we? Retinol & Collagen!
Both are so important to be included in your skincare routine! Retinol and collagen both help fight against the signs of aging, and it’s never too early to start!!
Collagen: Collagen is a protein found naturally in your body! As we get older, our bodies produce less and less of it, resulting in wrinkles and fine lines. Using collagen orally or topically will improve your skin’s elasticity, reduce your wrinkles, and increase your skin moisture.
Retinol: Retinol is a form of vitamin A. Retinol helps to prevent buildup of dead skin cells, helps create new cells, and encourages new collagen formation. All of that to say, your skin will feel softer and be more plump!
Advanced Clinicals’ Retinol and Collagen formulas are both available at select Walmart locations nationwide!
RETINOL ANTI-WRINKLE SERUM – $4.82:
- Gives your skin a healthy glow
- Enhances your skin’s elasticity
- Revitalizing your complexion
RETINOL ADVANCED FIRMING CREAM – $5.99:
- Replenishes your moisture barrier
- Green Tea
- Aloe Vera
- Chamomile
- Body, face, and all-over moisturizer
COLLAGEN INSTANT PLUMPING SERUM – $4.82:
- Supports the natural production of collagen in the epidermis
- Skin will look plumper and firmer
- Soy Extracts – targets sagging skin, lost elasticity in the skin, and facial lines
COLLAGEN SKIN RESCUE LOTION – $5.99:
- Green Tea
- Aloe Vera
- Chamomile
- Pure collagen
- Body, face, and all-over moisturizer
- Softer and plumper skin
I always apply my serums before I apply any other skincare, that way they can deeply penetrate into my skin! So start with the serums, then go in with your moisturizer!
I use my Advanced Clinicals collagen regimen in the morning and my Advanced Clinicals retinol regimen at night, because retinol can cause sun sensitivity.
A serum is basically a high concentration of active ingredients that are able to penetrate further due to lack of ingredients like thickening agents or petroleum that are found in a typical cream moisturizer!
So using a serum PLUS a cream is like double moisturizing, double hydrating, and double anti-aging!
Like I said, all of these Advanced Clinicals products are available at select Walmart stores nationwide! The lotions retail for $5.99 and the serums retail for $4.82!! WHAT A STEAL!!
If you’re having trouble finding them at your local Walmart, they can be
purchased through www.advancedclinicals.com or on Amazon.
Here’s a picture of what my skin is looking like after about a month of consistent use of the Advanced Clinicals Collagen & Retinol formulas! Honestly, my skin is looking really amazing!! I can definitely tell my skin is more hydrated, plump, and glowing! I also feel like my makeup goes on a lot better too!
Your makeup can only look as good as your skin does, so make sure you have a solid skincare routine, which obviously includes the Advanced Clinicals Retinol & Collagen formulas! 🙂
Thank you so much to Advanced Clinicals for sponsoring this post.
Fall Dream | Topshop
Hey friends!
Happy September! I am thrilled about today’s post! It’s another collaboration with Topshop and Stylinity, and it doesn’t get much more fall, am I right?
I’m getting some Halloween vibes, and I’m living for it.
In my mind, September 1st is Halloween 1st, and the Halloween makeup looks begin. And don’t worry, yes, my room is already decorated for fall. Lol.
LOOK at this dress.
All of the details of this dress are to die for. From the gorgeous color palette, to the stunning lace layers throughout the bodice, to the beautiful floral design, all the way to the sheer, lace sleeves, I’m dead. But in the best way.
Shop the look here!
Topshop carries a wide variety of dresses perfect for every occasion and every style! Be sure to check out the Stylinity Topshop page for some great deals too! P.s. there’s a 10% off discount for all students year round, so take advantage, girl!!
D E T A I L S O F M Y L O O K:
FLORAL MIDI DRESS
Are you kidding me? Look at those little buttons, SO CUTE.
The back of this dress is completely sheer lace, which is stunning if you’re into that kinda thing, I’m just a little funny about showing off my whole back! haha
I plan on wearing this dress to a formal, late September wedding, because it’s literally the perfect formal, fall dress!
SHOP THE DRESS!
CHUNKY BLACK HEELS
These heels have quickly become a favorite of mine!
They’re SO comfortable!! And they look good with just about anything!
I love how they add a unique, street-style flair to an otherwise, rather feminine dress!
SHOP THE SHOES!
Topshop has a super cool guide to all their unique, beautiful dresses, which is super helpful, and you’re sure to find one you love for any occasion! Check it out here: The Dresses Guide. And while you’re at it, take the dress quiz here, to shop your curated edit, made just for you!
Daytime Dressin’ | Topshop
Hey friends!
I am so excited about today’s post! It’s in collaboration with the Topshop and Stylinity, and this look is also the cutest, so there’s that.
This style of “shirt dress” has become super popular this season, and I had never tried one on! Everyone else always looks so cute in them, but for some reason, I just thought I couldn’t rock it!
I was WRONG.
This little yellow number is from the Topshop, and I’m genuinely obsessed with it!!
Shop this look here!
The Topshop carries a wide variety of dresses perfect for every occasion and every style! Be sure to check out the Stylinity Topshop page for some great deals too! P.s. there’s an additional 20% off for all students, so don’t miss it!!
D E T A I L S O F M Y L O O K:
STRIPE DRAWSTRING SHIRT DRESS
I love everything about this look! It’s the perfect look for any daytime outing like brunch with the girls, shopping and lunch.. or anything, really!
This dress is so lightweight and breathable, relaxed, and it’s so comfortable! It’s made so well, and I can tell I will get a ton of use out of it!
The drawstring waist is an adorable touch, too!
I paired the dress with a pair of classic sneakers just because I was doing a lot of walking that day, but you could easily dress it up a bit more with a heel and fun bag!
Shop my dress here!
POINTY POLLY FRAME SUNGLASSES
I am a total sunglass junkie; the more pairs, the merrier!
I am so into cat-eye shaped sunglasses, but these ones from the Topshop are by far my favorite ones I own! I’ve never owned such a nice pair of sunglasses before!
I love tortoiseshell too, you can easily wear it with both blacks, browns, and every color in between!
Shop my sunglasses here!
The Topshop has an awesome guide to all their unique, beautiful dresses, which is super helpful, and you’re sure to find one you love! Check it out here: The Dresses Guide. And while you’re at it, take the dress quiz here, to shop your curated edit, made just for you!
Click the photos below to shop my Look via Stylinity!
Thank you so much to the Topshop and Stylinity for collaborating with me on this post!
Thanks for stopping by!
xx Claire
Your Bridal One-Stop-Shop | Olive + Pepper
Hi sweet people!
Today’s post is so exciting, and I’ll give you a hint… think bridal! 😉
As many of you may know, I got engaged in January 2018, and we are getting married Summer 2019! Half a year has flown by, and we are now less than a year away from the big day!
I guess it’s time for me to start thinking about engagement photos, parties, showers, events, etc. And the most important question that arises with all of those things is… WHAT WILL I WEAR?! Lol.
I’ve got you covered, well, Olive + Pepper has you covered.
Working with Olive + Pepper was, hands down, one of my favorite collaborations I have ever done, so I was SO excited to team up with them for some bridal looks!
Olive + Pepper has a unique style and flair about them, with a little bit of a retro, glam feel. They are totally my style!
They also have a neat little section on their website for all things wedding; The Wedding Shop! ❤
Not only do they have so many white options for us brides, but they have amazing options for your gal pals in your bridal party, dress options for your mama, accessories galore, and don’t forget the handbag, girlfriend!
This is the Femma Lace Midi Dress, and I don’t think it could be more perfect or more bridal!
The intricate details and the stunning lace make this dress a showstopper! Every part of this dress is so feminine, down to the button closure. I am in love with this!
The Femme lace midi would be the perfect dress for your engagement photos, your bridal shower, your rehearsal dinner, your honeymoon, and even for you more non-traditional brides out there, who want something a little more YOU for your big day!
Don’t feel like there’s a certain “look” you have to have to be considered “bridal”; wear what you want to! I honestly have thought about wearing this as my wedding dress, but now my whole world has seen it.. so maybe not. Lol. But if I hadn’t shot it, wrote about it, and shown my fiancé, it would’ve been a contender! haha
My sunnies & my bag are also from Olive + Pepper, they have the cutest accessories!
Shop my sunnies: Audrey Cat Eye Sunnies
Shop my handbag: White Day Clutch
This. Dress.
Obsessed.
The Audriana Mermaid Floral Dress is all things glamorous, classy, and fun. I seriously have never seen a dress so unique.
This is the perfect dress for a bridal shower, for your bachelorette party/weekend, for a bridal brunch with the gals, a fancy dinner on your honeymoon, and let’s be honest, it’s even perfect for a girl’s night in with face masks, snacks, and a movie! Lol (Me)
I’m in love with the “Old Hollywood” vibes this dress gives off, and the shape is to die for! And hey, if this is your style, rock it down the aisle too!!
To top off the “Old Hollywood” vibes, I threw on some heart sunnies and laughed my way down the steps!! HAHA
Shop my heart sunnies here: Heart Sunnies
Below are some other perfect options for all your bridal activities, all from Olive + Pepper!! ❤
Click the caption of photo below to shop!
BRIDAL PARTY
So like I’ve already mentioned, they not only have perfect white dresses for all things bridal, but they also have some great options for your bridesmaids, your mom, and even just for those attending the wedding!
Click the caption of photo below to shop!
ACCESSORIZE, BABY!
We can’t forget the accessories!
Whether you want a fun pop of color for yourself on your big day, you want to gift your besties a pair for the wedding, or you just need to amp up your bridal shower look, Olive + Pepper has so many amazing, affordable options for you!
Click the caption of photo below to shop!
So basically what you’re finding out is this…
- Olive + Pepper is your online, One-Stop-Shop for you and your bridal party when it comes to being fashion icons for all wedding festivities.
- Olive + Pepper has the most beautiful, unique designs.
- You won’t find an item over $100 on Olive + Pepper… oh, and did I mention shipping is always free?
HAPPY SHOPPING! ❤
Oh, and one last thing… a little icing on the cake, perhaps? (Wedding puns)
!!! WE’RE DOING A GIVEAWAY FOR FUTURE BRIDES !!!
You must…
- Follow me @claire_rene_ (https://www.instagram.com/claire_rene_/) & @shopoliveandpepper (https://www.instagram.com/shopoliveandpepper/) on Instagram,
- Like this post on my Insta –>
- Tag 2 friends in a comment AND your future wedding date + 1 thing you’re looking forward to about your big day!
- For a *BONUS* entry, screenshot my instagram post and share to your story tagging both me @claire_rene_ & @shopoliveandpepper and the hashtag #OPWeddingShop ❤
Good luck! 🙂
*This post is in collaboration with Olive + Pepper*
Suit of My Dreams | Janela Bay + a GIVEAWAY
Hi there!
I am beyond excited for today’s post!
So let’s talk swimwear.. is it not the most annoying thing? I have been on the HUNT for a swimsuit that actually fits me in all the right places and also cover my body, while still being cute and fun! Like I feel like I’ve been searching my whole life haha
I came across Janela Bay, a modest, trendy swimwear line, about a year ago, and I knew that they’d be everything I needed in a swimsuit. They are all about classy, modest swimwear! Sign me up!!
Janela Bay actually started one day when the owner was fed up with not finding exactly what she was wanting in store and decided just to make her own. How cool is that?
She now has two locations in Utah and a large following on Instagram, which is incredible!
I’ve jokingly said that one day I’d probably have to do that, but thanks to Janela Bay, I can put a hold on learning how to sew for a few more years! Lol.
Purchase my suit HERE!
I know what you’re thinking… “Oh, a one piece?” And I have to say to that, “Heck yeah, girlfriend, a one piece!” While you’re over there worrying about what may pop out or who may see you like that, I’ll be living my life and doing water sports with confidence. hahaha. I’m just kidding… but kind of not. 
I honestly just don’t understand bikinis. Don’t get me wrong, some bikinis are okay, and are totally cute and cover, but most are not, and to be honest, it’s disgusting. I love how that’s basically the only thing you can find in store too, as if it’s expected of us as women to wear 0 clothing to the pool. Oh no, it’s okay, I wasn’t planning on feeling comfortable today, thank you!
Also, someone please explain the difference between underwear/bras and string bikinis… oh you can’t? Me neither. Lol.
I just can’t wrap my mind around it. As Christian women, we should do everything we can to protect the eyes of our brothers in Christ. I’ve come to the realization that I never want to be a stumbling block in someone’ life, and that you never know what someone is going through or what they may be struggling with, so that’s why I cover up!
Also, we are beautiful, handmade treasures by the Creator of the Universe, not little toys for objectification, so maybe don’t dress like one? Lol. I don’t know man, that’s just how I see it. Agree, disagree, but I hope I can open your eyes to idea that you don’t have to show every inch of your body to be beautiful, “trendy,” or to “fit in!”
I am doing just fine in my one piece, because not only is it absolutely adorable (thank you Janela Bay), but I don’t find my self-confidence in the eyes of humanity, but rather in knowing that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by our Great Lord, and to be honest, it’s not that fun “fitting in!”
So enough chat about why I wear one pieces, and onto why this is the best suit.
For one, it’s stunning. Like are you kidding me? It doesn’t get cuter than this. Literally the suit of my dreams!
It fits AMAZINGLY! I am wearing a small, even though I am typically an XS. I went up a size so I’d have more booty coverage! You can tie the ties in the back tighter to make the top fit better, which is why this suit works for me!
My bottom half has a little more to it than my top does (lol) which is why this suit is perfect for me with the adjustable ties in the back!
The color of the suit is a bit more of a traditional blue (think cobalt), but with my editing the suit looks more teal!
I am obsessed with the floral pattern! So so pretty!
I also love the neckline! It’s not a super deep v down to your belly button (shucks, I was hoping it would be!), and it’s not a weird there’s-actually-no-fabric-on-the-sides-so-I-can’t-do-anything-in-this-suit kind of suit, Lol. It’s literally perfect!
The fabric is so nice and super high quality! It’s amazing!!
They have so many beautiful options, and some really cute mix and match pieces too! They’re seriously everything I’ve ever wanted or needed in a suit. I think you’ll love them too!!
So I have exciting news… WE’RE DOING A GIVEAWAY!!!!
- Follow me on Instagram
- Follow Janela Bay on Instagram
- Like the giveaway photo
- Comment & tag your friends; one friend per comment! Each tag counts as an additional entry!
That’s it, girlfriend! You’ll be entered to win the suit of your dreams!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
xx Claire
Jumpsuits & Jesus | Daisy Shoppe
Happy Wednesday!
Today’s post is in collaboration with Daisy Shoppe! Daisy Shoppe is located in California with multiple locations, and they actually have been around for quite some time! They celebrated their 50th anniversary in June of 2016! How cool is that?
They pride themselves in providing “cute and happy clothes,” and gifts for the everyday girl! Not only do they carry clothing and accessories, but they also carry home goods and little trinkets. So fun!
Not only that, but they also carry faith-based journals, devotionals, and adorable little Bibles.
Basically, they’re a one-stop-shop and every girl’s dream!
This Palm Printed jumpsuit is so fun & perfect for summer! It’s also available in black.
It’s one of those unique jumpsuits, with the leg slits, so it’s basically like you’re wearing a romper!! That style is perfect for super hot, summer days! And the fabric of this jumpsuit is super lightweight and very breathable!
I’m wearing a size XS, and I’m 5’1 for reference. I paired this beauty with some heels, as it was a little long on your girl, but hey, what isn’t?!
My tassel earrings and belt are both from Target, and were super on sale and are super old. Sorry girl!
So like I mentioned earlier, they also carry little knickknacks, home goods, and faith-based books and journals.
This little Devotional Bible for Women is also from Daisy Shoppe, and it’s amazing, and also the cutest!
As many of you may know, I am a Christian, and as a Christ follower it is vital that we get into the word every single day so that we may grow on our walk with the Lord.
I know at times it is so tough to either find the time or just the motivation to do it. I also know that making it a part of your daily routine is challenging. Been there. Done that. Got the t-shirt.
Okay, I haven’t just “been there”… it’s a reoccurring theme sometimes in my life. We get so distracted by all of the hustle and bustle of this life, making plans, working hard, going, going, going, and sometimes we leave the Lord right out of it all.
It’s ironic though because without Him, we’d be nothing, have nothing, and could do nothing. But we’re humans, and we make mistakes (boy, do we make mistakes), but the grace of our Lord is sufficient and ever-present, and all He wants from us is to get back up, keep trying, and to keep pursuing Him.
This devotional book has helped me so much! There’s just something about holding a tangible book, rather than just scrolling through a Bible app. I have more motivation to pick up a book than to just open up another app. I feel more connected and like what I’m doing is important, because now it’s separate from all the other things I already do on my phone. Do you get what I’m saying?
It’s also a beautiful book just to look at, so sometimes it catches my eye, and I’m like, “Hey!” so I sit back down with it and go through it, if I maybe forgot to that morning, because again, “life happens,” even though life can’t happen without Him.. but you get the point. Lol.
This Devotional for Women is split up into daily readings, each reading coincides with the date! Each day is filled with verses plus a small application paragraph at the end! I love it!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
xx Claire
