Oh Happy Day!

Happy Saturday and thanks for stopping by! I apologize for not posting a Fab Find yesterday. With so much going on, I just didn't get to it. I think it's time to hire a VA and I have just the right person in mind! It's a beautiful thing though and I'm definitely not complaining. So many wonderful things are happening to CL! So many blessing's yet to unfold!
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All I have to say is look out world...Something old, Something new...Out with the old...in with the new!! Stay tuned!
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In the mean time, I'll keep bringing it here and listening to what you have to say. After-all it's all about you in the name of love!
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Hey check out the article that HITCHMEDIA did on CL!
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I mentioned back on May 17th, that I was interviewed by a writer and I'd share the article once it was live. The article is featured as a Top Story today, about Romantic Interior Decorating for married couples written by Jessica Q. Chen. A bit different than our Romantic Decorating, but pretty much the same concept. Let them know what you think about the article and they'll pass your feedback back to me!

Let's just keep getting better together! I value you and your feedback, it's why we keep growing and changing!

Wednesday Wisdom...Romantic Tips!

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Ok here's the deal -- in the beginning, it's flowers, intimate dinners for two, looking sexy, sexy lingerie, breakfast in bed, romantic meeting places, romantic looks and lot's of kissing! Once the dust settles on the courtship of a marriage, it's CNN Sports, fast food, sweatpants, manfriends, girlfriends, girl power, sleeping in, big underwear and silk scarves. But it doesn't have to be that way, and it doesn't have to take much to keep your romance alive. Check out what I call, "Four Forever Romance" four key habits to keeping the romance going for years to come!
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Plan Romantic Dates and put them on the family calendar, if you don't have one start one. With your busy schedules, working, taking care of kids, and settling into a routine can lead to the lack of a romantic life with your partner. If you're not careful, the flame can blow out for good and lead to a total breakdown of the marriage. Things like children and work are with out a doubt aspects of the marriage, that are essential to take care of. It's also essential to take care of your relationship too. Making time for one another, setting date nights for just the two of you, a weekend to get away by yourselves, and even just taking the time to enjoy a romantic dinner at home, can provide the quality time you need to maintain a close bond. Being affectionate goes a long way to help keep the sparks kindled until you can get away alone. It's important to remember all the things that you loved to do during the early days of your relationship whatever you did that brought on the excitement!
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Surprise Your Spouse With Romantic Gestures. It's easy to fall into a rut and let time go by without giving your relationship the attention that it deserves. Taking just a few minutes each day to let your partner know how much you care can make all the difference. Bringing home flowers for no reason, leaving love notes posted in obvious places, sending a sexy message via email, text or voicemail is a great way to leave a smile on your partner's face, and make the day seem lighter. Helping out around the house like doing the dishes, taking out the garbage, and making the bed -- especially when you decided early on in the marriage that it's not your responsibility to do so. Our actions are also a way to say I love you and can speak volumes over our words. Do say it as well, I-Love-you!!!
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Care for and Nurture your selves separately. Keep your body in shape and don't let go of you! Going off to your favorite book club when your sweetie's out golfing isn't a sign you two are drifting apart. On the contrary, developing individual interests allows for a richer life as a couple. By taking little breaks of time away from each other, you'll gain a greater appreciation of the gifts your partner brings to your life and your marriage. You'll find it to be very sexy to be independent sometimes, and you'll feel better about yourself and less demanding of your partner when you're together. After all, taking some personal responsibility for your own well-being relieves the pressure on the other person to "provide" happiness. Nurturing solo adventures from time to time will keep give each of you plenty of adventures to talk about, along with the life memories that you create together which also keeps the bond between you strong.
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Communicate for a Healthy Marriage By any measure the one thing to remember in your relationship is to communicate. If you feel like you're being neglected and ignored, let it be known. Do not try to hide your feelings and build up animosity whether you feel you're competing against work, or the kids, or anything else. Likewise, if you feel like the fire is dieing in what was once a passionate fierce love life, let your partner know how you feel. Avoid being accusatory or placing blame, instead focus on making things right again and the way you want them to be. If you approach it right, you may be surprised that your not alone in what you're feeling!

Celebrity Love Stories....

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I love romantic movies, comedies or drama's! I also like hearing or reading about a good love story! It's really interesting to hear celebrity couples share their love story. Since Hollywood marriages are often so short lived, I find these love stories to be some of my favorites, because of the longevity that they represent! I saw their stories back in February, the same day that our story ran in the AJC. What's interesting is the age difference of each couple and the length of time that each couple has been married!

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The Love stories featured below starting with the youngest marriage to the oldest, share a few important virtues in common, COMMITMENT and LOVE!

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Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith have been married only 12 years, but it's a union so strong that it seems longer. "I will throw my career away before I let it break up our marriage. I made it clear to Will," Jada has said. Will says no one can "handle" him the way she does. "Once you feel someone locked in on you, it's no contest. This is it. I can't imagine what anyone else would offer."

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"He swept me off my feet," Michelle Obama told The Chicago Sun-Times recalling how on their first date he made her laugh and intrigued her with his "deep understanding" of art. Sitting on a curb, they shared their first kiss over ice cream. "I asked her if I could kiss her," Barack Obama has written. "It tasted of chocolate." After 16 years of marriage, how is it they still look at each other like newlyweds?

They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last year, eight months before his death. When we think of inspirational celebrity couples, Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman come immediately to mind. She called him "the most considerate, romantic man." He said he never cheated because "Why fool around with hamburger when you have steak at home?" On this Valentine's Day, we take a look at other celebrity couples who have survived, and thrived, despite the pressures.

George Burns said he was "nothing" until he met Gracie Allen. The couple performed on "The George Burns and Gracie Allen" show from 1950 to 1958. Their 38-year-marriage did have its rough spots, including what has been reported as one night of infidelity by George. Guilt-stricken, he bought her gifts. Somehow she learned the truth and years later joked: "I wish George would cheat again. I really need a new centerpiece." AJC File

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See your story here! Tell us how long you've been married and what you think is the key to your staying power! If your story is selected, it will be published here.

Marry on Romeo and Juliet's balcony!....

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Who would have thought that the real Romeo and Juliet's balcony, would be made available one day, for marriages to take place. Even though historians now say that there's little evidence linking it to Shakespeare's tragic love story, the famous balcony opens for weddings as a way to boost tourism. Romantic couples searching for the perfect wedding spot can now tie the knot on the Verona balcony in Verona Italy, that's immortalised by Shakespeare in Romeo and Juliet. Click here for more information!

Friday's...Fab...Find!

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Known for the breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay in Newport, Rhode Island, we bring you the intimate, cozy, breathtaking Cottages at Castle Hill! If you are looking for a truly romantic hide-away, this is one that will surely please you! One of our clients forwarded the link over today and highly recommended this beauty as a referral.

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They selected a Cottage, perhaps you'd prefer a stay at the Agassiz mansion (The Inn), the location of the award winning Turret Suite. There's also the Harbor House Rooms, Beach House Rooms and the Chalet. This is a great year-round US get-away destination!

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It would be an easy choice for me, I love the water so I'd definitely want to be as close to the water as possible!

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Wednesday Wisdom...A Romantic Tip!

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I would like to share one personal note with you today. One that we may share in common. I often tell my DH (Devoted Husband); "My favorite place in the whole wide world is in your arms." When I'm there I feel safe, secure and loved! If your not taking advantage of just laying in each others arms, laughing and/or listening to the quiet, you just don't know what your missing!

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I challenge you to try it and tell me what you think! You'll be surprised at how it will strengthen your marriage and bring you closer together. Trust me you will cherish those times and miss them when you realize that you haven't done it in a while.

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You'll feel soooo good just by simply holding each other! Whether you're snuggling in bed or curled up on the couch, outside on the porch or out back on the deck. It's a simple tip but often ignored due to time constraints and busy work schedules. Even if you have small children it's healthy for them to see you be close to each other. If you really want to steam things up, try it on the weekends while they're napping or after they've gone to bed. It's so important to take time out and simply just BE!

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Ahhhh such a wonderful place of renewal!

Pony Express........

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Ladies when you're going out on a romantic date think about dressing from head to toe. While out on a date there will be a lot of eye contact. You want your tresses to make a statement, 'Romance' and his eyes only on you!

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More often than not, wedding hairstyles are a good place to look when your thinking of a style, since the magic of a wedding is usually so romantic. Change up from your regular style for the date. Be creative and throw something new at him! You don't want to be boring with the same ole same ole. He'll appreciate the effort to impress him and you'll feel good too! Check out these sexy styles, all stemming from a pony tail.

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(FYI: Next week, sexy short hairstyles!)

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Photos provided by: Fernando Milani, Matthew Jordan Smith and Kristan Serafino

Romantic Decorating Tips For Your Home....

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Last week I was interviewed by a writer that's writing an article on Romantic Decorating. At first when we started talking, I thought she wanted to know about the rose petal trails, candlelight trails, body butter and massage oils. I was right, but she also wanted tips as they relate to romantic interior design and the importance of having a romantic bedroom. What you're trying to achieve when doing so, and tips on decorating a romantic bedroom and different ways you can go about transforming a room.

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We discussed a few other things about our couples and how they react to our services. I'll share the article once it's released, I'm curious myself as to how it turns out. Try these easy tips to add a little romantic flare to your bedroom and dining room.

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The Dining Room......

A romantic dinner for 2? Start with fresh flowers and romantic table settings. Use the reflective power of mirrors and don't forget the candles, lot's of candles!
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The Bedroom......

1. Flowers speak "love"! Use bundles of flowers in pretty vases that are overflowing with blooms. Sexy, romantic prints on the walls and fabrics on the bed that envelope the body. For the walls and windows, use soothing colors or bright colors that suit your fancy and fabrics that are rich in texture.

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2. Create a romantic bedside table with memories and flowers. Use a pretty tableskirt and a crystal lamp, glass globes, and frames that hold treasured memories of your loved ones, like that sexy boudoir photo, for an instant reminder of such a passionate gift.

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Bonus Tip......
Breakfast in Bed - Serving breakfast in bed is really romantic! It's nice to serve it up on the clean crisps color (or lack of color) white! It will make the fresh fruit, croissants, jam, and coffee pop and provide a touch of class! Your sweetie will be impressed!
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Anyone that knows me personally, knows that I love decorating, design and interiors. Whether it's for the romantically challenged or for someone without an eye for design! It's my passion, I'm here to help!

Friday's...Fab...Find!

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~ LeViette! ~

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When I saw these last year I went crazy over them. I love the concept and the creativity! I'm sharing these today because, they are fabulous and I'd completely forgot about them! These organic towels are made into a dessert look alike, a perfect romantic gift for any occasion! They really make a great gift for any occasion because they're so different and unique.

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I recently spoke to the CEO about a "Love" design just for CL, so stay tuned. As some of you know, I'm on an organic, Eco-friendly crusade and looking for special products to bring to you directly. In the mean time head on over to the Le Viette shop and order up the perfect dessert! Why not, they have '0' calories! Enjoy!

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A few of my favorites designs.....

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Wednesday Wisdom...A Romantic Tip!

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This weeks Romantic tip comes to us via Steve Cooper Co-Founder of Hitched Media, Inc. I'm in love with this Online Marriage Mag. Click here to see why!

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We often talk about getting outside of the box and doing something different and sometimes doing things that your mate loves but you aren't crazy about doing.

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Steve's date in his own words..........

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We went to a local film festival, which neither of us had done before to see Street Dreams. After the film was over, the actors (who were in the crowd) along with the film's crew got in front of the theater to talk about the film and answer audience questions. Before the movie had started we got to catch some of them walking the red carpet too. After the movie was over and we left the theater, my wife and I ventured next door to a diner and grabbed a snack while watching the stars out the window sign autographs and take pictures. It was a fun night doing things out of our normal routine.

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The key words....."neither of us had done before"
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Thanks for sharing your date night out with us Steve which, I happen to know was your turn to plan! You had fun which is key! Having fun is what we all need to do more of!

Outdoor Romantic Decorating Tip....

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Now that spring is in full swing, why not set the mood for romance outdoors. There's nothing like the glow of candles at night. There's something alluring about wide open spaces! Plan a little outdoor Soiree, get started with candles.

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I'm helping a friend plan a little outdoor romance as a surprise for her fiance! When I saw these unique, inexpensive, pretty, chic, candle holders I had to share them with you!

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The Branches Votive Candle Holder, by Two's Company ($65.00), and the Set of 3 Torch Tea Lights ($35.00), can be purchased at BURKEDECOR.com

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The White Floating Blossom Lights come in a set of 6 perfect for a pool, or place them around the patio ($42.99). The Wrought Iron balls come in a set of 2 ($29.00). Both beauties are courtesy of Wal-Mart! Indeed, Wal-Mart!

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Happy Mother's Day!....

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To all the mothers that visit my blog, cheers to you this day! I hope your day is filled with love and happiness, smiles galore and rest! Keep up the awesome work! Thank you for raising great citizens of the world!
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It's truly a blessing and a privilege being a mother. Being a mother has it's ups and downs such as life, but there is no greater reward, than having your children grow up and actually love to be around you! You only get one mother and to cherish her is truly an understatement. If it wasn't for mother's, none of us would be here. The unconditional love that a mother gives is irreplaceable and incomparable to that of any other.
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I dedicate this post to my Mother who taught me everything about what it means to be a real women. She always said, "don't just be any ole women but a women of substance". A women with integrity, kind and thoughtful, yet strong and passionate, not two faced but honest and trustworthy. To love God and always pray and never doubt what you can achieve with God by your side. Oh and so much more really!
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I know she's holding it down beyond the pearly gates. She's smiling down upon me and my 4 sisters saying well done daughters, well done! A gift that is no longer taken from us, but given to many as she walks the streets of gold. The best Mother you can possibly imagine!
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Happy Mothers Day Mom!! Love you and miss you much!!

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Thanks Mom for being the best you and for giving your personal best to me!

Introducing So FabuLuxe!™

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I was recently introduced to Rachelle Jones owner and CEO of So FabuLuxe!™ , a couture event design firm located in Los Angeles! Rachelle is a creative resourceful, ambitious and detailed-oriented individual. She has a natural passion for people and a strong desire to live a balanced yet fabulous lifestyle.

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Today's savvy and chic hosts, look to have their invitations and events express their individual style and taste. A premier event design boutique, the company specializes in the art of creating beautiful, couture invitations and also working with their clients to design fabulous lifestyle events.

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What they offer...
Fabulous event décor, the coordination of special events for charities and non-profits organization, producing educational seminars; trade shows and conferences. Every invitation created is a work of art using only top-quality hard to find papers, luxury designs, letterpress and embossed printing.
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The detail "Couture Experience"...
The unique niche utilizes fabulous embellishments featuring; Swarvoski crystals, Austrian crystals, ostrich feathers, Dupioni silks, silk box invitations, fine metallic papers, gorgeous satin ribbons, dazzling brooches and rhinestone buckles. It's all about the "couture experience" which sets So FabuLuxe!™ apart from the competition.
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CL and So FabuLuxe!™ ...
I am so excited about collaborating with Rachelle next year on a lifestyle event, that will showcase her fabulous work along with our romantic design elements!
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Need invitations for your next event, call So FabuLuxe!™. They specialize in couture handmade invitations and will work with you to create a lifestyle design for your life celebration or fabulous event!
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Click here for more information about So Fabuluxe!™ or call the event design boutique today! 323.905.2121

Friday's...Fab...Find!

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Have your cake but don't eat it!

Ok ladies and gents that visit often, you know how much I love flowers. For all of my first time visitors, "I love Flowers"!!! One of my favorite places online with the most innovative flower designs, 1800flowers of course! While browsing the site looking for an arrangement to send my out of state Aunt, who's 97 years old by the way, I found these adorable designs. They will surely bring a smile and warm a heart upon receipt and no crumbs or calories to clean up after! I'm sure you agree, all of these cuties are a great FIND for any occasion!

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Anyone of these are perfect for igniting a little romance too! Be creative, imagine sending the cupcake arrangement with a note...."A cupcake for my cupcake"
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Final Note: I sent my Aunt a beautiful bouquet, not seen here!

Wednesday Wisdom...A Romantic Tip!

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The best thing that you can do for yourself, your mate and your relationship, is to continue to do what you love to, even after you say I do! So often we give up our passion or the fun things that we enjoy and make our partner the center of our universe. That's all well and good but don't loose sight of yourself in the process.;

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I've seen it happen so many times and once you get lost it's hard to find yourself again. Your identity is the one thing that made you fall in love with each other in the first place right? Be yourself and continue to live the life that was a breath of fresh air to your mate from the start.

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What is it you loved to do most when you were single? Did you look forward to playing golf or tennis? Get a charge out of taking your dog on vacation with you? Enjoy the action of a good basketball or football game? Savor the intimacy of a long car trip? Whatever you did before and enjoyed, do it over and over again — and if you haven't already, introduce your significant other to the joy of losing yourselves in an activity you adore!

Vendor Spotlight...mainelement: Love

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mainelement: love - handmade, customizable bath and body products designed for gifting others with the element of Love

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About mainelement: love – Here you have a company born of people’s desire to feel great about what and how they gift those they care about: their friends, their family, even their clients and prospects. What sets mainelement: love apart is the personal touch you are able to display with each gift. People love nothing more than to know that they are being thought of. Each and every item is mixed and packaged by hand upon order. Elements are carefully selected to ensure that what you are giving is good for the body, and in turn good for the mind and spirit. mainelement: love's ultimate goal is to provide quality favors and gifts that you and your guests will love: love to give, love to receive, and love to use again and again.
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About the CEO (Chief Element Officer): Tyrika Swails – Tyrika is the mother of an energetic young son and engaged to a wonderful man. She is a woman who wears many hats, striving to be a good influence in her roles as mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend by keeping an open, positive, optimistic outlook on life.

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Products and Services:

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le’amour body = ♥ body wash ♥ body butter ♥ body scrub ♥ moisturizing milk bath ♥ satin salts ♥ bubbling salts
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pampering pedi = ♥ pedibutter ♥ pediscrub ♥ pedisoak
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custom scents = ♥ custom designed scent based on your personal taste, to be used exclusively by you and you alone
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A word from Tyrika:
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“mainelement: love allows me to give from the heart something that everyone wants and needs: LOVE!” - Tyrika Swails – Chief Element Officer

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Click here to visit the mainelementlove website or call direct (832)567-1957

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Tyrika...we've got something in common.....love begets love!

Friday's...Fab...Find!

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It's The Ellis Hotel!

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Last week I made mention of a newly renovated historical hotel that's now a boutique hotel. I promised to share the photos of this fab, cozy, romantic, get-away hotel. One of the most interesting things about this hotel is their "Women's Only" floor. All of the rooms have curling and straightening irons, plush bathrobes and other amenities.

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Now that spring break is over, grab your girls and head on over for a girl's night out! The "Women's Only" floor is secured with card access only. The special card access is perfect for this floor and a great idea for the female corporate traveler as well! During my corporate years of traveling alone, the idea would have certainly made me sleep a little better at night!

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The hotel has won several awards like.....

• Atlanta Downtown Design Excellence Award for Best Hotel Design, 2008
• Atlanta’s Urban Design Commission Award for historic preservation, 2008 Convention South
• Readers named The Ellis "Best New Hotel for Small Meetings

The E Street grill has awesome food. I was able to sample it for myself, mmmm...love the butternut squash soup and the service is impeccable!

Memo to the Ellis Hotel: Thank you so much for adding CL to your preferred Vendor list! I'm very excited about working with the hotel!

Whether you're in the Atlanta area or out of town, you'll definitely want to be there for the events that are forthcoming right in the heart of the city! Plan on spending the night afterwards, for a relaxing cozy get-away where you'll sleep tight, on a pillow-top mattress and a choice of feather or foam pillows!

Stay tuned, more to come!

Photo Credits: The Ellis Hotel