Behind the Scenes with Humans of Toledo

The stories of people I met while visiting New York have stuck with me and still fascinate me. Stories – unedited, raw narratives that stumble out of someone’s mouth – make us feel empathy, yearning, shared sadness or triumph…  They make us feel connected, like we’re not alone in this life.

They remind me to “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle,” as written by Ian MacLaren.

Hello, 2014: A Holiday Recap

My holidays were filled with love, laughter and cocktails, as I hope yours were too! They were so much fun that I took an unplanned break from blogging to enjoy my family and friends and relax. But now I’m back to blogging and so excited to share with you!

At this time of year, I have more chances to dress up, don fancy jewelry and try something a bit more daring. So here’s a brief recap of what I've been up to – and what I've worn – over the past several weeks.

The Golden Globes 2014: Tame Style, Wild Stars

Did you catch the Golden Globes Sunday night? I admittedly watched them on DVR last night, while I researched all of the lovely ladies' looks and cuddled with Carter. This sums up my night:

He's giving me the stink eye because he only has one third of my attention. #hesspoiled

The awards show continued to be entertaining, thanks to its gorgeous gowns, snarky hosts and tipsy guests. The red carpet looks celebrated individuality over trends, according to many news outlets. But, besides a few style standouts, I thought they were mostly tame. Below are more of my thoughts on this year's Golden Globes style. However, the presenters and award winners were far from boring! If you missed the comedy and outrageous moments, check out The 10 Best Burns from the Golden Globes and The Best Moments from the 2014 Golden Globes (in gifs).


My beloved Sandra Bullock looked beautiful, but I unfortunately didn't love her dress. It would have been much improved if it was one color. This got me thinking, I would love to dress Sandy! I would put her in something strong and sassy.

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Are Tina Fey and Amy Poehler aging backward?  They seem to get better and better!  Amy’s black Stella McCartney dress from the red carpet was sexy and chic.  I see we’re still doing the smooth belts from McCartney’s collection but instead of gold they are black leather.  I’m still in lust with them.

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

I’m glad Tina Fey changed out of that floral print and let her hair down for the show.  Her bedazzled burgundy body con dress was gorgeous.

Photo by Getty

I think Jennifer Lawrence looked beautiful with an edgier dark lip and silver eye makeup that enhanced her blue eyes.  Her style and choice in dresses is usually impeccable, but her white Dior Haute Couture gown didn’t do anything for me.  I look forward to seeing what she wears to the Oscars.

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

My best dressed? 
Margot Robbie in Gucci: She is just gorgeous.  Her plunging white gown with a high slit is oh, so sexy.  The crystals and emeralds play up the sparkle in her eye.

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Elisabeth Moss in J. Mendel: I’m a sucker for glitzy art deco prints and I love this hemline that shows off her shoes.

Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty

Lupita Nyong’o: I gasped.  Beautiful.  It reminds me of Gwyneth Paltrow’s Oscar gown, but the color (and matching lip) is exquisite on her.  Probably my most favorite look of the night.

Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage/Getty

Cate Blanchett in Armani Prive: Being so statuesque, Cate Blanchett can pull off intricate and unusual designs with such elegance.  I like that this sheer lace dress has a unique pattern and neckline.  Plus, her hair is super chic.

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Jenna Dewan-Tatum in Roberto Cavalli: This bold black and white print is striking!  I love the mix of geometric lines and organic scrolls.  Her swept back hair, red lip and rectangular earrings coordinate perfectly.

Photo by Kevork Djansezian/NBC/Getty

Jessica Chastain in Givenchy: The feather-like texture on her Givenchy gown is so cool.  Her look has a slightly rock royalty feel.

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Kate Beckinsale in Gucci: Another glitzy geometric pattern, plus a sweetheart neckline and curve-hugging silhouette?  Yes, please.  She looks exquisite.

Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty

Naomi Watts in Tom Ford:  Yes, metallic column gowns have been done before, but Naomi Watts pulls it off flawlessly.  The color palette is very flattering on the blonde and the chunky necklace and cutouts add a slight twist to the tried and true shimmer.

Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage/Getty

Olivia Wilde in Gucci: The long-sleeved sequin gown has also been done again and again, but Olivia Wilde, with her baby bump, looks radiant.  Her loose curls and smoky eyeliner makes it young and fresh and I love the emerald.

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Sofia Vergara in Zac Posen: This dress fits her perfectly!  It’s simple, elegant and sexy.  The blue floral statement necklace adds whimsy to the look and sets it apart from other black ball gowns.

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Which is your favorite look?

See all of the dresses, jewelry and shoes here.