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merry SOCIAL(left)DOLLAR STORE PHOTO BACKDROPBY Jesseca HallowsAdd some pizzazz and an automatic peoplepleaser to your summer barbecue with a DIYphoto booth. You can make this fun floral settingin record time with materials you can find at adollar store. Get ready for your selfie!click here to visit One Sweet Appetitefor the full tutorialFRESH FLOWER PARTY HATSBY Melissa DiRenzoThese hats will add cheer to any summer party orbridal event. Buy some extra flowers when you’reshopping for your centerpieces to whip up someof these pieces of party flair. They are an easyproject with a big wow factor and will make yourphotos even more memorable. They even doubleas a takeaway gift for your guests.click here to visit The Sweet Escapefor the full tutorial 53
&tgreoecaoaotdtsosl It’s summertime and the eating is easy. Simplicity is key when you are planning your day-to-day menus. Pro tip: Keep things cool by rotating through fresh salads, popsicles, ice cream and tasty cakes and pies. Repeat daily.54
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WHIP IT UP NO CHURN HOMEMADE ICE CREAM BY Melissa DiRenzo Photography by Andrea Hunter Is there anything that says summer more than a bowl or cone of ice-cream? The more flavors, the better. If you’re an ice-cream-o-holic this will be the best news you’ll ever hear. You don’t need a machine to make ice-cream at home. In fact you can make it in minutes with only two ingredients plus your favorite flavor. Too good to be true? The proof is all over this mouth-watering page. You’ll be making ice cream faster than you can eat it with these delicious no-churn recipes. click here to visit The Sweet Escape for all the recipes oreo cookies and cream mint chocolate chunk ginger mango refresher56
stra wberry cheesecake swirl EAT DRINK merryanut brittle banan a chocolate caramel chocolate with salted pe very berry lim y ed coconut dream toast lemon curd lovel e treat 57
RED, WHITE & BLUE FRUIT POPS BY Jesseca Hallows Summer is quickly approaching and what better way to cool down than with these festive red white and blue fruit pops? Fill your Popsicle molds with your favorite fruits and top with a surprising ingredient for a sweet way to beat the heat. Click here to visit One Sweet Appetite for the full recipe58
LEMON LAVENDER POPSICLES merry EATSBY Jeran McConnelThese easy 2 ingredient popsicles have asophisticated flavor. Serve these as a coolSummer treat or dessert and both kids andadults will be pleased.Click here to visit Oleander & Palmfor the full recipe 59
LEMON BLUEBERRY CREAM POPS BY Dana Bueno We moved to Nashville last summer, and Jeni’s Ice Cream became an instant favorite stop of ours. An indulgence of mine is the Lemon Blueberry. The first time I tasted it, I was inspired to create a non-dairy popsicle version that’s quick and easy to make for summer treats for my boys. Click here to visit DanaBueno.com for the full recipe60
merry EATSPISTACHIO CREAM POPSBY Melissa DiRenzoOne of my favorite ways to cool offin the summer is with a cool treat.Pistachio gelato is my all-timefave and here I tried to recreate inpopsicle form. It makes a perfectsweet and nutty treat.Click here to visit The Sweet Escapefor the recipe 61
SWEET PEA BRUSCHETTA BY Dana Bueno Fresh green peas make a brief appearance at the market each spring, Fortunately, they can be found throughout the year in the frozen foods section! Use the pea spread as a base, and let your imagination run wild for the toppings. Enjoy!! Click here to visit DanaBueno.com for the recipe62
merry EATSSTRAWBERRY BASIL SALADBY Jesseca HallowsThis picnic favorite combines sweetstrawberries, cucumbers, and balsamicfor a new summer staple. Serve it asa side to chicken or beef and watch itdisappear.Click here to visit One Sweet Appetitefor the recipe 63
NAKED LAYER CAKE WITH SUGARED BERRIES BY Ashlee Marie As a baker I eat pretty heavy food year round, but when the weather get’s warm you want to lighten things up. I grew up in Oregon so I’m a huge fan of fresh berries. Adding berries to cake fillings is a delicious way to bring in bright bursts of flavor to each slice. And no need for fancy cake decorating skills when berries are in season. Sugaring the berries and candy coating the strawberries is an easy, and impressive way, to add texture and a sweet crunch to your cake. Click here to visit AshleeMarie.com for the recipe and candied berry tutorial64
merry EATSSOUR CREAM LEMON PIEBY Ashlee MarieThis pie is sweet, tart and creamy, allat the same time. Literally perfectionon a plate. Everyone who tries it lovesit and it’s our go too summer dessertfor any gathering. I’ve even beenknown to eat an entire pie myself... somake two!Click here to visit AshleeMarie.comfor the recipe 65
pop fizz clink! Take a load off and sit back in your lawn chair with an ice-cold beverage handcrafted just for you. From fruit-infused cocktails and delicious non-alcoholic juices, we’ve thought of everything you need to shake, stir and blend. It is permanently happy hour, so cheers to that. Bottoms up!66
PHOTO BY ANDREA HUNTER 67
Thirst Quenchers BY Melissa DiRenzo STRAWBERRYPEACH Photography by Andrea Hunter SANGRIA It’s not officially summer until you’ve had your first patio cocktail (or two, or five). I’m going to help you kick off summer with these refreshing and relatively healthy summer cocktails. Dreaming up cocktails is a lot like cooking, there’s alot of room to experiment and have fun with your favorite ingredients. I personally tested each one and can assure you that they’re all as delicious and refreshing as they appear ...hiccup! click on your favorite drink or visit The Sweet Escape for the recipes68
PINEAPPLEMANGO BLUEBERRYKIWI merry CHEERS SMOOTHIE MOJITO WATERMELON JALAPENO MARGARITA CUCUMBERBASIL GIN ANDTONIC 69
BLOOD ORANGE FIZZ BY Jesseca Hallows Who doesn’t like a fun refreshing summer time drink that takes only a few minutes to whip up? Even better, one that can be easily adjusted to an adult beverage with just one simple ingredient? That’s exactly what this Raspberry Blood Orange Fizz is. I took a simple soda and made it something spectacular with the addition of just a hand full of ingredients! Click here to visit One Sweet Appetite for the recipe70
merry CHEERSPEACH LEMONADEBY Shannon AchesonLemonade is such an iconic sign of summer.Although I don’t like to mess with a goodthing, it’s nice to change things up a littleevery once and awhile. Adding some sweetpeach flavors balances out the tartness ofthe lemon and makes for an extra refreshingdrink. It’s also easy to make in a really bigbatch for summer celebrations.Click here to visit AKA Design for the recipe 71
ORANGE BEET BREEZE BY Sarah Khandjian Before you turn up your nose at the thought of putting veggies in your cocktail, let me tell you how delicious this stuff is. This juice is super fresh and made with only beets and orange juice. Nothing else! It’s super versatile and can be used in salad dressings and beverages like this one. So the next time your doctor asks if you’re getting all your fruits and veggies in you can now tell him yes! Click here to visit Sarah Hearts for the full recipe72
merry CHEERSSTRAWBERRY RHUBARB FIZZBY Kaylee GiffinInspired by a cocktail I saw at a livecooking challenge, I decided to go homeand put my own twist on the mixer. Thisstrawberry-rhubarb fizz has got to bethe best cocktail I have ever made, and itwill definitely be a staple in our house forhosting guests, or just for a hot summerevening when there is nothing better thanhaving a sweet cocktail in hand.Click here to visit The Blondielocksfor the full recipe 73
csteynlteral It goes without saying that the summer is a time for romance and long weekends. There is always opportunity for that summer fling to blossom into a long time love and weekends spent under the sun. For every summer event you can be sure that there is a fabulous outfit to go with it. And our resident style experts Kaylee Giffin and Dana Bueno have you covered for all of those sweltering summer dates and weekend plans. SUMMER DATE LOOKS Style by: Kaylee Giffin, The Blondielocks Photographed by: Raelene Giffin Photography SUMMER WEEKEND LOOKS Style by: Dana Bueno, Dana Bueno.com Photographed by: Amy Cherry74
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merry STYLEsummer dates DESSERT DATE Dates that involve going for dessert or coffee normally go hand in hand with a new relationship or a first date. For this type of date wearing something bright and fun is the perfect way to go. Mixing prints like this blue crosshatch top and floral yellow skirt play really well off of each other and are sure to put you in a good mood, which is key for making a great first impression. A comfortable, neutral heel will also keep the look balanced and stylish.76
Polly Sleeveless Top, Darling London, $40.25 Rebecca Minkoff Mini Fiona Bucket Bag, Saks Fitfth Avenue, $171 Mejuri Fence Of Venice Cuff, Blossom Lounge, $205 GET THE LOOK A DESSERT DATEGentle Fawn Sonoira Skirt, Blossom Lounge, $76 Wooden Platform Wedges, Charlotte Russe, $35.99 77
merry STYLEsummer dates PICNIC PLUS ONE Picnics are meant to be carefree and fun, and your outfit for this type of date should reflect that. Opting for a jumpsuit in a light fabric will not only allows you to stay cool, but it will also allow you to easily sit on a blanket and enjoy your company. Of course the sun will be shining so a big hat is a must. And don’t forget shoes that are easy to slip off…just incase you want to play footsies with your date.78
Straw Hat,Joe Fresh, $12 Giovana Leather Tote In Brick, Brave Leather, $240 GET THE LOOK A PICNIC Jenny Bird Gypsy Triple Wrap Bracelet, Blossom Lounge, $85Heartloom Keap Romper, Blossom Lounge, $156 Women’s Venezia Ice Leather Peep Toe Dress Flats, Soft Moc, $59.99 79
merry STYLEsummer dates ROOFTOP ROMANCE What could be more fun than an evening barbecue on a rooftop patio? If you get invited to go on a date like this, chances are it will involve meeting your crushes friends. This is the perfect time to show your date that you fit in perfectly with his crew, so something easy like a romper layered with a denim vest is a great way to keep your outfit casual and fashionable. Add some playful elements you’re your accessories. Something like a bold statement necklace, printed sandals and mirrored sunnies are the perfect way to show that you are one cool gal.80
Denim Vest, American Eagle Outfitters, $62.12 Bora Bora Bib Necklace, Baublebar, $48 Clear Plastic Mirrored Sunglasses, Charlotte Russe, $6.99 GET THE LOOK ROOFTOP BBQ Rebecca Minkoff Avery Crossbody, Blossom Lounge, $198MINKPINK Romper, Bloomingdales, $62.98 Dollhouse Gold-Tipped Triple T-Strap Sandals, Charlotte Russe, $25.99 81
merry STYLEsummer dates WEDDING RENDEZVOUS You will know your relationship has really made it to the next level if your sweetie invites you to a summer wedding. A wedding is time for you to play dress up and feel your best. Leave the white to the bride and opt for a bold coloured dress in a light fabric so that you will stay cool all day and can dance freely all night. A bright clutch in a contrasting colour will also look amazing against an already bright dress.82
Gorjana G Ring Set, Blossom Lounge, $65Winnie Strappy Dress,Darling London, $88.55 Mackage Zoey Mini Leather Crossbody, Blossom Lounge, $250 GET THE LOOK WEDDING RENDEZVOUS Sillly Dress Heel in Blush, Steve Madden, $80 Gorjana Crescent Layer Necklace, Blossom Lounge, $70 83
merry STYLEsummer weekend CHAMBRAY COOL To stay cool in the summer, lightweight chambray is your daytime LBD (little black dress). Wood bangles highlight your sun-kissed skin, while natural toned, yet city-ready sandals and tote complete the look.84
Karen Walker Harvest Sunglasses, ShopBop, $280 Lucy Bangles, Kayce Hughes, $38 GET THE LOOK COOL CHAMBRAYSleeveless Chambray Shirt Dress,Mother, $220 Madewell Crisscross Freda Sandals, ShopBop, $158 Camel Tote Bag, Vovo Bags, $225 85
merry STYLEsummer weekend GARDEN PARTY This is a dress to remind you of garden parties and everything summer! The prettiest print and feminine silhouette make this Kayce Hughes dress my summer favorite! I added a green patent clutch and white patent heels, cork bangle, and a contrasting royal blue island raffia hat to be garden party ready.86
Island Raffia Hat, Kayce Hughes, $40Lyndal Dress, Kayce Hughes, $148 Kenneth Jay Lane Large Cork Print Bangle, ShopBop, $60 GET THE LOOK GARDEN PARTY ALDO Bowlick White Peep Toe Platform Pumps, asos, $63Watercolor Clutch, Zazzle, $49.95 87
merry STYLEsummer weekend URBAN CASUAL For weekend style, simple and effortless are what I look for. A lightweight muted tone top and an always classic white denim short, paired with calf hair two strap sandals and a leather tote are my picks for shopping the new store openings in my Hillsboro Village Nashville neighborhood.88
RITA hat, Janessa Leone, $160 Ray-Ban Shrunken Aviator Sunglasses, ShopBop, $150 Brushed Gold Hexagon Bracelet, Jill Michael, $65Helms Top, Feel the Piece, $84 GET THE LOOK URBAN CASUAL The Loosey Fray Short, Mother, $122.50Dolce Vita VeyaFlat Haircalf Sandals,ShopBop, $120 Wyeth Raw Tote, Cari Hoover, $455 89
merry STYLEsummer weekend DATE NIGHT Summer is here, and this breezy, backless dress saturated with color is so much fun for a date night! Pair with flats or go glam with a pair of silver platform slides.90
Wanderlust Dress In San Miguel, TYSA, $297 Made Birds Nest Bangle, Whistles, $55 Stirling Silver Bangle, Michael Hill, $209 Hematite & Sterling Silver, Michael Hill, $19 GET THE LOOK DATE NIGHT Doreen Metallic Leather Wedge, Ralph Lauren, $109 91
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DIY PEONY FLOWER CROWNBY Bree JohnsonThe flower crown is one of the prettiest signs ofsummer. There’s something about wearing a crownof flowers that can make you feel airy on your feet.They are remarkably easy to make for how stunningthey look. It’s hard to make something that looksbad when you’re using such beautiful materials.These crowns I made for a summer photo sessionuse the queen of all flowers, the peony along withsome other lovely stems and greenery.Click here to visit Classically Quirky tosee the full tutorial 93
merry STYLE DIY TROPICAL HAT BAND BY Stephanie Lee There’s something about bold leafy prints that really gets me in the mood for summer. Leafy patterns evoke visions of lazing in resort deck chairs surrounded by tropical foliage, sunglasses on and a mojito in hand. And while I’m not able to indulge that way all year round, I’m all for injecting that carefree spirit into my day- to-day with colorful projects like this tropical leaf hat band. Think of it as an instant burst of summer without the price tag! Click here to visit Make and Tell to see the full tutorial94
DIY CONCRETE JEWELRY DISHBY Renee ElliottA girl can never have too much jewelry and I’lladmit I have more than my fair share. I’m alwaystaking my jewelry pieces off at the end of the dayand misplacing them, so I was big time in need ofa few jewelry trays to keep track of my preciousmetals. I like a pretty + edgy combo so I decided touse concrete and a little gold and neon pink paintto create some fun trays!Click here to visit Re: Creative tosee the full tutorial 95
My favorite thing about summer is... ...summer evenings on the patio with string lights. Me lissa ...hosting backyard ...a weekend up north potlucks with friends at the cottage with (and great cocktails of great company, cold course!) bevies and lake side views. Sarah Renee …longer days and outdoor movies. Amy ...seeing or experiencing ...barbecues, snow cones something new in the and campfire s’mores good company of family with friends. and close friends. Lidy Jesseca …weekends outside with …long days at the ...all the beautiful the kids. Running them lake, the smell of colors that come out ragged in the fresh air sunscreen and to play. all day makes for some sun tans. excellent bedtimes! Steph Bree Emily …all the sunshine and …extra time to spending time near explore new places. the lake. Jeran Shannon96
...spending time at our ...long summer nightscottage, swimming, with good food, drinkBBQ’ing, making s’mores and friends.and camping. KristenVirgina ...going on road trips! Kait..sundresses and icecream. Lots and lots ofice cream.Rac hel ...morning coffee ... Late night cocktails out on the deck. with my husband on our back porch. Andrea MJ…evening patio dinnersin Nashville full of myfavorite ingredients.Dana.. is paddle boarding with …every day is like ...yard sales andmy boyfriend and our dog a weekend with spending weekends at theMilo, and going home to the kids. We get to cottage reading, eating,Halifax so I can breath in stay up late, play and jumping in the lake.the salty Nova Scotian air board games, watch movies and sleep in. GemmaKaylee Ashlee merry summer! 97
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