Stark Raving Chic: A Brief Holiday Hiatus Announcement!

Hey there, babes! As I bask in the bliss of newlywed life with Adam, I’m taking a little hiatus from blogging—think of it as our official honeymoon period!

This also coincides as the holiday season approaches, it’s time for me to take a little break from the blogging hustle and bustle. Think of it as my own version of a chic winter hibernation—complete with cozy blankets, peppermint hot cocoa, and a mountain of holiday cookies that I definitely won't be sharing!

But fear not! I’ll be back, brighter and bolder than ever, in March. Trust me when I say there are some *exciting* developments on the horizon that I can’t wait to share with you. Picture it: fresh content, thrilling new ideas, and maybe a few fashionable surprises (I might just have a little something up my sleeve!).

So, while I’m off recharging my creative batteries and indulging in all things festive, make sure to keep that stylish spirit alive. I’ll miss our little rendezvous, but I promise the wait will be worth it!

Wishing you all a magical holiday season filled with love, laughter, and a sprinkle of glamour. Here’s to what’s ahead—new adventures await us in March!

Xx, Bree

Date Night Chronicles: The Melting Pot & The Book of Mormon

Back on March 3, 2024 Adam and I had a delightful little date night that I decided I’d go ahead and chat about here because why not?! It was a good time and this will give me the opportunity to discuss two of my favorite things to do in the ‘Burgh and those would be eat fondue and see a musical at the Benedum Theater! (Not to mention, I’m playing with the idea of starting a little column called “Date Night Chronicles” where I write about the stuff Adam and I do around Pittsburgh and share some of our favorite spots!)

Part One Dipping Down Memory Lane: Our Fond(ue) Love Affair with The Melting Pot, Station Square

To start our date night, let’s step into The Melting Pot at Station Square, Pittsburgh – a place that's not just a restaurant; it's a cornerstone in the love story of Adam and me. You see, The Melting Pot has been witness to countless chapters of our romance, making it a bona fide member of our date night hall of fame. From those early days of nervous laughter over bubbling pots of cheese to the comfort of long-standing love affairs, this place holds more memories than a yearbook – but with way more cheese and chocolate.

A Cheesy Prelude: The Wisconsin Cheddar Tradition

Speaking of cheese, let me wax poetic about the gooey goodness that kicks off our culinary escapade. The "Wisconsin Cheddar" has become our date night tradition, a cheesy prelude to an evening filled with laughter, shared bites, and the promise of sweet indulgence.

Fondue Maestros: A Culinary Dance of Flavors

Now, when it comes to the main course, we play fondue maestros – each dip in the broth or sizzle on the grill is a collaborative effort, a culinary dance that mirrors the harmony of our relationship. The sizzling symphony of flavors and the playful banter create an ambiance that's uniquely Melting Pot – a feeling that's become synonymous with our love story.

Sweet Escape: The Yin & Yang of Chocolate Fondue

And don't even get me started on dessert! The "Yin & Yang" chocolate fondue is our sweet escape, a decadent swirl of dark and white chocolate that perfectly encapsulates the duality of our relationship – sweet, balanced, and utterly irresistible.

So, whether you're embarking on a new romance or celebrating the milestones of an enduring love, The Melting Pot at Station Square is not just a restaurant; it's a time machine of tastes and a witness to the chapters of our love story. Grab your forks, bring your appetite, and let the fondue-filled nostalgia unfold at our go-to date night spot – The Melting Pot, where every dip is a step down memory lane.

I had fun and decided to dress in character for Book of Mormon

Part Two: A Decade of Hilarity and Harmony, The Timeless Appeal of 'The Book of Mormon

A decade ago, I stumbled into a Broadway theater with a mix of curiosity and excitement, unknowingly about to embark on a musical journey that would forever alter my perspective on both comedy and introspection. It was my first encounter with "The Book of Mormon," a theatrical masterpiece that has maintained its cherished spot in my heart ever since.

The Promise of Laughter and Revelation

Back then, the allure of this production was twofold: the promise of a side-splittingly funny narrative and the revelation that the creative minds behind "South Park," Trey Parker and Matt Stone, had orchestrated this musical marvel. Fast forward to today, and "The Book of Mormon" continues to be a musical I hold dear – a testament to its enduring charm.

Blending the Outrageous with the Poignant

What makes this musical a perennial favorite is its ability to seamlessly blend the outrageous with the poignant. The satirical humor, a hallmark of Parker and Stone's work, is delivered with a precision that elicits uproarious laughter, but it doesn't stop there. Beneath the irreverent surface lies a thoughtful exploration of faith, humanity, and the universal quest for purpose.

Nuanced Characters and Transformative Journeys

The genius of the writing extends beyond witty one-liners; it lies in the nuanced characters and their transformative journeys. From the bumbling yet endearing Elder Cunningham to the charismatic Elder Price, each character contributes to a tapestry of self-discovery and personal growth. It's this depth that elevates "The Book of Mormon" from a mere comedy to a resonant cultural commentary.

Timeless Relevance and Resonance

Reflecting on the past decade, what stands out is the musical's timeless relevance. The humor hasn't aged a day, and the themes remain as poignant as ever. It's a testament to the universal truths embedded in the narrative – the struggles, triumphs, and the quest for meaning – that continue to resonate with audiences, regardless of the passage of time.

Soundtrack to the Soul

The music, composed by Robert Lopez, adds another layer of brilliance to the production. The infectious melodies and clever lyrics ensure that the songs linger in your mind long after the final curtain falls. From the upbeat "Hello!" to the introspective "I Believe," the soundtrack is a treasure trove that enhances the emotional impact of the storyline.

As a devoted fan who has witnessed the magic of "The Book of Mormon" unfold over the years, I can confidently say that this musical is more than a theatrical experience; it's a cultural touchstone. It has the rare ability to make you laugh uproariously while prompting introspection – a delicate balance that has kept it relevant and cherished in the hearts of audiences for a decade and counting. Here's to another ten years of irreverent humor, heartwarming moments, and the enduring legacy of "The Book of Mormon."

Final Thoughts:

Whoo! This post was essentially a double feature, but I hope y’all enjoyed it! I have to ask, have you ever been to The Melting Pot, if so what are your thoughts and if you’ve never been would you wanna try it?! Also, do I have any other musical lovers out there? What are some of your favorites and why?! And lastly, what do you think of this Date Night Chronicles idea, does it work, does it interest y’all? Let’s chat about all this in the comments below ✨

Xx, Bree

CH-CH-CH-CHANGES: Embracing Innovation

Hey babes, you may have noticed (and just might of caught a few hints when reading my post last week) a shift is happening here, and I'm thrilled to spill the beans on the exciting changes taking place in the realm of Stark Raving Chic. With this shift, I am working on evolving from a strict focus on fashion/style to a delightful fusion of fashion and lifestyle. Meaning there will still be some #OOTD style posts here and there, but I’m really embracing some new vibes. Think: lifestyle, local spotlight (either when Adam or the besties and I check out new and old spots we dig around the ‘Burgh and sometimes NOLA, or potentially YOU!), personal development, and some content for foodies to boot! So darlings, let’s dive into why this change is happening and what it means for you:

Why the Shift?

1. A Holistic Approach to Style:

To me, fashion isn't just about the clothes we wear; it's about the lifestyle we lead. By expanding into lifestyle content, I aim to provide a more comprehensive perspective on style – one that encompasses not only what we wear but how we live and express ourselves. After all, I have always said style and beauty are two of my biggest artistic outlets (only second to well, photojournalism/writing!).

2. Meeting Your Diverse Interests & Engaging in Meaningful Conversations:

You, my amazing readers, have diverse interests beyond just fashion. So, this shift allows me to cater to a broader range of topics, from beauty and wellness to travel and home decor, to even personal development and mental health/wellbeing ensuring there's something for everyone in our growing community. Furthermore, lifestyle content opens the door to more meaningful and relatable conversations. So by expanding my content I will also broaden my reader base, which could allow all of us to broaden our community and connection to one another. I'm excited to delve into topics that resonate with you on a deeper level, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

3. Adapting to Personal Evolution:

Just as fashion trends evolve, so do we. This shift reflects my own personal growth and changing interests in the past a little over 6 years. I want this space to be a genuine reflection of who I am and the lifestyle that I lead, and makes me well,  me!

What to Expect?

1. Style with Substance:

Snapped during Adam and I’s trip to NYFW and he begrudgingly stopped at Shake Shack with me—though ultimately he was happy he gave it a second chance!

While fashion/style will always be a core element of Stark Raving Chic, you can expect a richer,  more colorful, tapestry of content. I'll be weaving in lifestyle topics that complement and enhance our understanding of style, making this space a one-stop destination for all things chic and meaningful.

One of the first little knick-knacks Adam bought us when we first moved in together.

2. Beauty Beyond Wardrobes:

Beauty isn't limited to the makeup and clothes we wear; it extends to how we care for ourselves—even when we might not be feeling our best. So get ready for beauty and wellness content that celebrates the art of self-care and embraces a holistic approach to looking and feeling our best. (I am tying to incorporate some of that six years of schooling into this somehow—especially since it’s partially the reason I was on hiatus!)

3. Wanderlust Chronicles:

Roadtrip snapshot from our time in NYC for Fashion Week.

Travel has always had a way of inspiring fashion, and vice versa. So you can also look forward to joining  me (and most of the time Adam) on exciting journeys as we explore new destinations, uncover hidden gems, and draw inspiration from the diverse cultures that shape the world of style as well as give me personal style inspiration.

Adam (looking good) at Phipps Conservatory

4. Home Sweet Style:

Though Oliver at times is an enigma, I was happy to see he made an appearance for this photo.

I believe your space is  not only an extension of your style, but an extension of your personality. And I do like to admit, my clients have proven my theory right when they walk into my office and say things like “this is just so you. It’s safe, comforting, and warm”. With this being said, expect glimpses into my world of home/office decor, organization tips, and lifestyle hacks that elevate your living and working space while maintaining a chic aesthetic.

Memories, from knick-knacks to photographs.

5. Local Spotlight:

Thank you to Shaolin, of Black Horizon Tattoo, for this awesome little rabbit (I named him Harold Footless!)

I want to shine a spotlight on YOU AGAIN! Much like when I did my 2017-2018 spotlights on other local bloggers, I want to get out more in the community and extend this—though fellow bloggers are also still welcome. So, get ready for features that highlight the incredible individuals, businesses, and awesome places in our community. Your style, stories, and experiences are what make this space vibrant and diverse. And as mentioned earlier, if we’re slow on getting takers/a line up, I’ll also be incorporating some of my own favorite spots with family and friends!

Our Journey Ahead

In making for time for self-care, something I have been trying to do is incorporate coloring and other peaceful activities I enjoy into my daily routine.

In closing, I want to say this shift isn't just about change; it's about growth and evolution. I'm just absolutely thrilled to embark on this journey, exploring the intersection of fashion and lifestyle, and creating a space that celebrates the beauty of both.

Thank you for being part of this incredible metamorphosis. Let's embrace these CH-CH-CH-CHANGES together and make this fashion and lifestyle journey a vibrant and inspiring one!

What changes have you gone through in the past few years? Let’s chat about it in the comments below!

Xx, Bree