There’s something truly magical about finding the right light. Sometimes in the morning, I’ll legit stop on my way to work and admire the way shadows are cast or the way the sun looks peeking out from behind a building. Those moments inspire me.

I think the same can be said about style. Sometimes we find our light, something that brings us happiness, in the most unexpected places. For me, a huge light in my life is supporting small businesses. Are things more expensive? Usually. But are they pieces I find myself reaching for over and over again? Most definitely.

I’m proud to share today’s post because each item is from a small businesses. The skirt is made by a local designer, Erika Schrieber. I bought this dress for my birthday and snagged up this skirt (that I’ve been eyeing FOREVER) of hers when it went on sale on Stylecable. The zipper detail is so insanely cute and adds a bit of edginess to the whole look.

The top is by Ksenia Schnaider, one of the coolest designers I’ve found. It’s from a new-to-me site, ODIVO, that carries a ton of outrageously gorgeous (and somewhat underground) brands. I’m dying over this dress!

My necklace is from one of my favorite jewelry designers, Sophie Blake. Not only is she one of the sweetest, most talented women I’ve ever met, but her pieces are all insanely cool. She’s one of the only designers where I love each and every single piece in her collection. My hubby got this necklace for my birthday (my exact instructions were: Go to Sophie Blake, tell her you’re my husband and she’ll tell you everything I love.) That’s how wonderful she is. She's celebrating her one year anniversary in her pop-up at Mosaic District this Saturday so be sure to stop in and check it out (you KNOW I will!)

Last but certainly not least, these super fun Veja trainers from Anthom. I was devastated when Anthom left the DC area for the big apple, but thanks to their inspiring Instagram account, I spotted these beauties and called their store immediately. My size was in stock and they sent them out right away. I’ve been on the hunt for a pair of white trainers and the marble detail on these adds such a cool touch to the closet staple.

Now I want to know - what inspires you? What brings you joy? Share in the comments below! XO!

Silk screen Ksenia Schnaider tee via ODIVO c/o, Erika Schrieber skirt via Stylecable, Sophie Blake necklace, Veja Sneakers via Anthom, Retrosuperfuture 'Lucia Francis Puma' sunglasses, Halogen leather jacket. Hanuel bracelet c/o, Claire Ashley X Makeup Meltdown lipstick in "Siren" c/o

On Mother’s Day, we’re all reminded about the one person in our lives who has been there for us more than anyone else. Mine consistently worked overtime and summer schools so I could get braces, get a good education and have every opportunity available to me. Moms carried us around in their tummies for nine months, cleaned up all our poopy diapers, dealt with our teenage years of door slams and breakup ugly cries. They were there through it all.

This year, I’m especially grateful for my mom. Just over a year ago, we found out that she had breast cancer. It was in the early stages, which we were grateful for, but she still needed chemo and radiation. We prayed and prepared for the long road ahead…and to be honest, something happened that I didn’t expect. With each treatment, although her body became weaker, her faith and attitude became stronger. We packed picnics for the treatment rooms, toasted with Martinelli’s at the final chemo, and tried our best to make the most out of a terrible situation. And just last week, we learned that she’s now cancer free. So eternally grateful is kind of an understatement.

Let’s toast to our moms this weekend - it’s the least we can do after what we put them through ;) Here are a few fun ways to celebrate mom!

1. Pretty blooms and something sparkly
The age old question of whether to get mom flowers or sparkly has come to an end. Thanks to a fun collaboration between two local companies, Stylecable + Bloompop, you can send both! The earrings we’re wearing here are part of the special too! My mom is obsessed. And this special is actually extending beyond Mother’s Day for all the graduations coming up!

2. Learn something fun together
I am ALL ABOUT experiential gifts. One that I’m dying to take? Knead & Know’s class on making croissants. It’s a little drive for all you city dwellers but the instructor, Melissa, will make it worth your while! I learned to make ciabatta bread from her and my life is forever changed.

3. Help mom plant flowers or work on the garden
My mom always had flowers out front growing up, and now that I have a home of my own, I’m all about gardening and landscaping (WHO HAVE I BECOME?!) Take your mom out to a local nursery and have her pick out a few favorites and help her plant them!

4. Plan a picnic
For the budget conscious daughter (or son! Hi 10% of my readers!), plan a yummy picnic at the park with mom. My favorite picnic items include grapes, cheese, meats (if that’s your thing), crackers, french bread, fresh veggies and hummus. Get all fancy and bring a cute picnic blanket.

5. Two words: SPA DAY
Grab mom and head out for a fun morning at the spa! This year, I’m taking my mom to get mani’s and pedi’s as her gift at our favorite little spot. Bonding time + spa time = happy times.

6. Take mom out to the park
Is mom a sports fan? Pick up a Nats hat or jersey and head to the stadium! We play the Braves at 1:35 (get tix here!) Also go to Shake Shack after. JUST DO IT. No regrets.

7. Show tickets
One of my all-time favorite concert/show venues is Wolf Trap. Snag lawn tickets for sprawling and snacking or grab orchestra seats for incredible acoustics. Highlight performances include Ingrid Michelson (June 3), Frank Sinatra, Jr (July 9) and Abba, the Conert (August 16)

On Julien: Earrings, Stylecable c/o (send them to your mom with flowers here!) Top, Banana Republic (old.) Jeans, Lucky Brand. Shoes, Schutz (similar.) Necklace, Loren Hope via Rocksbox (get your first month free using code: JULIENXOXO)