celebrate

Ava's Birth Story

Ava's Birth Story- Enchanting Elegance
Ava's Birth Story- Enchanting Elegance
Ava's Birth Story- Enchanting Elegance
Ava's Birth Story- Enchanting Elegance
Ava's Birth Story- Enchanting Elegance

First of all, I wanted to thank everyone for the warmest and kindest wishes that Ava, myself and my family have gotten over the past few days. I read each and every comment (in my few precious moments of spare time haha) and feel so blessed . From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

The big moment has finally arrived and as many of you know, Tuesday August 4th is when little Ava finally made an appearance into this world. Justin and I were going in for a routine ultrasound checkup since I was one day past my due date. My doctor wanted to make sure the environment inside my belly was still good for Ava to thrive in. A weight check was done for Ava during the ultrasound and she measured in at over nine pounds. We were both shocked that she was so big! My doctor feared that Ava would keep growing bigger inside so she sent us up to the hospital to either be induced or to have a c-section. Justin and I were so thrilled that Tuesday would be the day we got to meet our little girl, but also a little nervous since the decision was so sudden.

Once we got to the hospital and saw the doctor, she recommended that a c-section be done since Ava may not have been able to pass through the birth canal. Justin and I agreed to having the c-section for everyone's safety and within forty-five minutes my little one was here! The surgery was the most nerve wracking part. Mine took a bit longer since there were some complications, which also meant I was in the recovery room longer too. I was so anxious to meet Ava. Justin was already with her while my surgery was being completed. When I finally got to the recovery room, I was able to hold Ava and look into her eyes for the first time. The most incredible feeling of love came over me. My dad, brother, brother's girlfriend, and Justin's parents were all there to greet us in the hospital room once we were cleared from recovery. Everyone was so excited and over joyed.

I've been healing up since the surgery. I'm not going to lie and say it was easy, it was not at all. I'm still dealing with some pain, but for the most part doing good. Ava is on a completely different schedule every day and that means sleep is a distant memory. I've also been breast feeding, which takes up my entire day! My dad has been over to help and visit every day since the delivery. He's an amazing grandpa and a big thanks to him for watching Ava while I write this post out. I fall in love with little Ava even more every day. It's a joy to get to see her little personality and facial expressions  while we spend our cuddle time together.

Her full name is Ava Marie Lois Brezovsky. I wanted to get my mom's name (Lois) in there as a remembrance. She was born at 5:42pm on August 4th. She weighed 9lbs 7oz and was 20 3/4 inches long. Again, thank you so much to everyone for your love and warm wishes!

 

xo, Amanda

Online Pop Up Shop

Pop Up Shop- Enchanting Elegance

Happy Monday lovelies! I'm so excited to announce that I'll be hosting an online pop up shop for all of my followers starting tomorrow, Tuesday the 16th and ending on Friday the 19th. Eren Timario approached me asking if I'd like to host an online pop up for her Chole and Isabel boutique. I thought this was a wonderful idea, but first wanted to check out the jewelry to make sure it would be something my readers would like and also of good quality. Everything I present on Enchanting Elegance is held to my highest standards. I personally believe it is of importance to only bring quality material to my blog. While I looked over the product line, finding the most beautiful pieces, I knew this would be a great fit and an exciting opportunity to present a brand that may not be known about.

Also, as a little bonus, one lucky shopper will get 25% off of their $75 purchase. The winner will be chosen once the pop up shop ends on Friday. Good luck to everyone and let me know if you'll be attending the online pop up in the comments below!

To enter the online pop up shop, please use this link:

www.chloeandisabel.com/boutique/littleladyeren/512d97

 

These are some of the items I fell in love with and want to add to my collection!

Online Pop Up Shop

Pop Up Shop- Enchanting Elegance
Pop Up Shop- Enchanting Elegance
Pop Up Shop- Enchanting Elegance
Pop Up Shop- Enchanting Elegance

Birthday Girl

Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance
Birthday Girl- Enchanting Elegance

Modcloth Dress || Charles David Heels || Bare Minerals Lip Color in Risk It All || JustFab Flats || The Exhibit Earrings ||

Wishing everyone a wonderful Friday today! Finally we made it to the weekend and I am especially excited since today I turn 27. Time certainly has flown by with so many moments to look back upon and cherish. I must say that I have always been in love with the actual date of my birthday, May 29th, since it is also the same birthday as John F. Kennedy, whom I adore. Thank you mom for the impeccable timing!

I wanted this photo shoot to be a fun one and thought, well balloons are fun and so is some confetti! I'll tell you what's not so fun though, balloons on a very windy day. It was definitely tough trying to keep these suckers where I wanted them. In the end, I just let them go where they wanted, but it did take me 2 hours to get through the shoot! I love how colorful this dress is along with the pretty Charles David rose gold heels. In the confetti photos, I'm wearing flats from JustFab, which are also so colorful and have the prettiest rhine stones on them.

I hope everyone has a lovely weekend! I'll be spending mine with my husband today and then celebrating with my family tomorrow. Enjoy!!

Chelsea's 18th Birthday

birthday
birthday
birthday
blush

Ottoman, Target || Sandals, Zara, (Similar) || Dress, Modcloth, (Similar) ||

I want to thank everyone for the most wonderfully kind comments Chelsea and I received on Instagram for her birthday post! It's absolutely amazing to belong to a community made up of so many lovely ladies and gentlemen. Chelsea celebrated her 18th birthday this past Friday April 17th and we spent the whole day basically snuggling together and giving her some extra treats to celebrate. I feel so very blessed to have my little fur baby. She simply lights up my life every single day. Justin and her even have a very special bond. She fell in love with him from day one. He really knows how to charm the Kretchmer girls! I cannot even begin to explain how much I love her and feel as if she really were one of my own children. She's the best little friend I've ever had.

Dad's Birthday Party

Turning 61

birthday
birthday
birthday
birthday
birthday
birthday
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Ever since my mom passed we have been celebrating my dad's birthday at my house. I love having the chance to host the party and getting to entertain everyone. This year my dad turned 61 and we planned on treating him to dinner and then having cake and coffee back at my house. Angel food cake has always been the staple in my family and I love serving fresh strawberries with it. My brother's girlfriend also made an amazing apple strudel, she'll be a famous chef one day mark my words!, along with the coffee. I used happy birthday confetti to decorate the tables and cake plate, balloons by the fireplace, and banners placed along the walls and fireplace as well. It was such a fun night to enjoy with the family and show my dad how much he is loved.

Last year we had a big celebration since it was my dad's 60th. I really wanted go all out for him and he truly deserves it. We all went out to dinner on his birthday and then hosted a similar dessert party back at my house. Then, a few days later, we drove down to Hotel Hershey for a fabulous Sunday brunch. This had to be the best brunch I have ever had and seen. What a beautiful setting to relax and enjoy. They had every kind of food and dessert you could imagine. I'm glad we were able to do it and make his birthday so special. This happened right before I started this blog last year and never had a chance to share so what better time then when celebrating his birthday this year.

macarons
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chocolate covered strawberries
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Happy Spring

First Day of Spring

Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow
Spring in the snow

Bag, Target | Rain Boots, Target, Similar | Trench Coat, LC Lauren Conrad, Similar | Dress, LC Lauren Conrad, Similar and Similar | Hat, Vintage, Similar | Ring | Bracelet, Forever 21, Similar | Bow Necklace, Forever 21, Similar | Earrings, Jackie Kennedy |

This is technically a few days late, but these photos were taken on the first day of spring and surprise! It snowed 3-5 inches in North Eastern Pennsylvania, which if you live here is really no surprise at all. Winter lasts a minimum of seven months, sometimes longer. Sigh. I could really use some of that California sunshine right about now! I refused to dress for winter on the first day of spring so I pulled out my rain boots, rain jacket, a punchy peach colored dress, and my new satchel from Target. They have so many colorful purses right now that are absolutely wonderful. I would highly recommend stopping in at your local store to check out a few pieces. The only winter item I put on was my vintage hat because it was a bit frigid outside!

A Joyous Announcement

Happy Valentine's Day

Today I am so thrilled to announce our pregnancy. I took these pictures for a photo announcement card that was sent out to our family and friends. Baby Brezovsky is on the way! Justin and I could not be any more excited. We are literally brimming with happiness as we await our little one to join us. Now that the second trimester has started, and I am feeling much better than in the first, I can finally start planning and preparing the nursery and all the little details that accompany the arrival. How fitting to share this news during a holiday that represents love and caring. 

pregnancy announcement
pregnancy announcement
pregnancy announcement
pregnancy announcement
pregnancy announcement
pregnancy announcement

Sparkle and Shine

Celebrate

sparkle and shine
sparkle and shine
sparkle and shine
sparkle and shine
sparkle and shine
sparkle and shine

When it comes to celebrating I always like a little, or a lot, of sparkle and shine in my ensemble. There is no greater time to shine than at New Years Eve. The holiday practically begs for everyone to dazzle their brightest. While this look is every bit of a party outfit, it is still comfy with the soft jersey tank and midi length skirt, great for keeping those legs a little warmer during these bitter cold days.

Fancy Fête

Lovely Lace

lovely lace
lovely lace
lovely lace
lovely lace
lovely lace
lovely lace
lovely lace
lovely lace
lovely lace

Nothing says femininity like delicate lace. When I saw this dress during my visit to Valley Forge, I thought how much I liked the midi length and the long sleeves for the chilly winter weather. Add in the lace and floral pattern and you have one knock out of a dress. I wanted to stick with the green/teal color to create a monochromatic look and chose suede heels, a vintage beaded clutch, and replica emerald jewelry of Jackie Kennedy's. I tend to lean toward suede heels in the winter because of the heavier fabric and how it feels dressier. This teal dress from H&M is sold out in this color, but still available in a creamy nude. I also adore how little skin this dress shows, but still flatters my figure in its shift form.

Posh at the Party

Holiday Soiree

posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party
posh at the party

This is one of my most favorite dresses that I own. You cannot get anymore 1950s looking than this. As soon as the holiday season comes around, I whip out this dress from Modcloth and start planning all of the parties I'll be wearing it too. The fit and flare style flatters all figures and the bright pop of red brightens the black and white satin and velvet of the dress. I wanted to wear my hair up to revel the beautiful deep V-shape in the back. A ballerina bun feels fun and elegant, but any up-do will look fantastic. This is the absolute perfect holiday dress for me and I feel at my most glamorous in it. It embodies everything I adore about a dress and with the red accents, it feels oh so very Christmas-y. This dress, which is sold out in the black and white, but is still available in Teal or a silver and black skirt, can be worn to any number of occasions from a formal holiday party, cocktails with friends, a holiday work party, or even an elegant date night out.

A Major Award

The Silver Beaver

the silver beaver award

On  Friday November 7th, 2014, my dad was awarded the Silver Beaver for his dedication, hard work, self-sacrifice, and years of service to the Boy Scouts of America. I could not have been more proud of him. It is the highest award one can receive in the council level. The night went by so quickly, but was quite memorable and one I will not forget. I gathered and prepared all of the photos for the slide show that was given during my dad's introduction. Seeing all of the important moments of his life and hearing the lovely talk was inspiring. I was asked to escort my dad and to stand with him while he was presented with the medal, certificate, pin, and square knot. To my surprise, I was also given flowers that were beautiful and smelled divine. I was more than happy to capture the night and also a big thanks to Justin for photographing my dad and I while we were up by the podium!

From the BSA, The Silver Beaver Award is the council-level distinguished service award of the Boy Scouts of America. Recipients of this award are registered adult leaders who have made an impact on the lives of youth through service given to the council. It is given to those who do not actively seek it.

the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver
the silver beaver

All You Need is Love

Our 3rd Wedding Anniversary

3rd wedding anniversary
Love is the emblem of eternity, it confounds all notion of time, effaces all memory of a beginning, all fear of an end
— Germaine De Stael

When I awoke on the morning of our anniversary, I was greeted by a lovely bag on our dinning room table. Now, the 3rd anniversaries symbol is leather and Justin did quite good if you ask me. His gift to me was two leather handbags wrapped in the cutest polka dot paper with a card nestled on top.

3rd wedding anniverasary

I'm quite in love with these purses because of the great detailing they have. I'm a sucker for a structured top handle bag and the little gold bow accent gives the purse the perfect finishing touch.

3rd wedding anniverasary
3rd wedding anniverasary

When Justin arrived home he gave me these beautiful roses and told me the meaning he thought of behind the three colors. Going from white, to pink, and finally red, the colors represent the deepening of our love over the years. How romantic! I was also surprised by the little snack he got for me. Cinnamon sugar covered almonds. An absolute favorite of mine to snack on.

3rd wedding anniverasary

I really could not have asked for a better anniversary. Between our time in the Finger Lakes to our little celebration at home, everything was perfect and I feel completely lucky to have someone so special and loving as my husband.

3rd wedding anniverasary
chelsea

Chelsea always likes to get in on the action!

Good Eats

Italian Wedding Soup

italian wedding soup

Since both my parents and I share wedding anniversaries so close to one another, theirs is September 22nd and mine September 24th, I decided to make Italian Wedding Soup in honor of the celebrations. This was also the soup served at our reception dinner. A favorite with everyone and sure to be a smash at your next dinner, here is the classic recipe. Bon appetit!

homemade italian meat balls

Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 lb lean ground beef

  • 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley

  • 1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 pkg mirepoix

  • 2 cartons chicken stock

  • 1/3 fresh chopped escarole

  • 1/2 cup acini di pepe pasta

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Parmesan Cheese

Directions:

  1. Beat egg slightly in medium bowl; add ground beef, parsley, and bread crumbs. Mix well with clean hands. I also added some cheese into the mix. Form into small meatballs, using about 1tsp ground beef mixture for each.
  2. Brown meatballs on all sides in olive oil in a pan on medium, about 5 min. Remove meatballs; drain off all but 1 tbsp pan drippings.
  3. Add mirepoix; reduce heat to medium-low. Cover; cook, stirring occasionally, 6-8 min, until veggies are soft, but not browned.
  4. Add meatballs and stock; bring to a boil on high. Lower heat to medium and simmer for 5 min. Ass escarole; return to simmer on medium-high. Add pasta; let simmer about 5 min until pasta is tender.
  5. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish each serving with grated cheese.

Travel Log

3 Year Wedding Anniversary to the Finger Lakes

Today marks my three year wedding anniversary and what better way to celebrate than by looking back at some wonderful memories from our trip to the finger lakes a couple weeks ago. Justin and I decided to take our anniversary trip a little early this year and it turned out to be spectacular. The finger lakes have beautiful sweeping landscapes to gaze upon, which comprises of what Justin and I do while visiting. We love to simply drive around and relax while taking in all of the scenery around us. Of course we do visit our favorite winery Bully Hill and stock up on Ravot 51, our favorite wine that has pineapples in it and quite a sweet flavor. Other than that we love to have little picnics around the lakes, do some antique shopping, and try the local cuisine. The golden rod was flourishing and added an Autumn feel to the gorgeous views. Let's not forget the fabulous waterfalls the finger lake region has to offer as well. This year we got to see a new one for us, Ithaca Falls, pictured last. Also, you'll see I made a new little friend while having our picnic. All in all we had a wonderful time with so many memories filled with love. I feel so luck to be married to my best friend.

A quick little history for us, Justin and I took our "mini moon" to the finger lakes the weekend after we were married. I had started a new job and was not able to take any time off. We still wanted to go somewhere to celebrate so we chose a small weekend trip to the finger lakes. We eventually took our big honeymoon trip six months later to Florida, but have always had a special place in our hearts for this New York region. We also took our one year anniversary to the finger lakes and now our three year as well.

This is from our mini moon in 2011

Celebrating our one year anniversary in 2012