{Spotlight on Texas} AshLee Meets Paris

AshLee visits Paris and it steals her heart. She may live there one day.

AshLee Frazier Photography Paris

AshLee Frazier | Paris, France

AshLee Frazier Photography Paris

AshLee Frazier | Paris | Photography: Michelle DuVall

AshLee Frazier Photography Paris

Ashlee Frazier | Photography: Michelle Nicole Productions

AshLee Frazier Photography Paris

AshLee Frazier | Photography: Michelle Nicole Productions

AshLee Frazier Photography Paris

AshLee Frazier | Photography: Michelle Nicole Productions

AshLee Frazier Photography Paris

AshLee Frazier | Photography: Michelle Nicole Productions

AshLee Frazier resides in Houston, Texas and is a contestant on the upcoming season of The Bachelor.

Bachelor Contestant Ashlee Frazier

AshLee Frazier | The Bachelor Contestant | Photo: ABC

I think Paris may steal my heart too…

Truly, Emily Arnim

{More on AshLee Frazier}

Follow AshLee on Twitter or Facebook

{Feast for the Eyes} Alaskan Garden Pictorial

Alaskan Garden Photography | Homer, Alaska

Plush Poms | Homer, Alaska

Plush Poms | Homer, Alaska

With endless hours of the Spring and Summer sun, the Alaskan Landscape miraculously transforms itself from a snow covered panoramic to a lush green terrain with bursts of vivacious color and signs of life surrounding. My love affair with nature continues… Alaska is indeed a feast for the eyes enlightened by deep breaths of invigorating air. No place quite like Alaska for those in tune with natural beauty.

Aunt Mary still Texas Proud | Homer, Alaska

Aunt Maryann still Texas Proud | Homer, Alaska

Alaskan Garden

Flower on a Star | Homer, Alaska

Star Struck | Alaskan Garden

Star Struck | Homer, Alaska

Bursts of Life | Alaskan Garden

Bursts of Life | Homer, Alaska

Alaskan Garden

Pop of Color | Homer, Alaska

Slender Stars | Homer, Alaska

Slender Stars | Homer, Alaska

Visiting my Aunt Maryann’s beautiful world in Alaska is a memory I will cherish forever. My breath taken away time and again as I found myself in wanderlust enjoying the amazing beauty of her garden and all the sights Alaska boasts. An enchanting place to hold in my heart forever.

Ashlyn and Aunt MaryAnn | Homer, Alaska

Ashlyn and Aunt Maryann | Homer, Alaska

A beautiful garden | Alaska

Abundance | Homer, Alaska

Pale Violet Beauties | Alaska

Trumpets of Beauty | Homer, Alaska

Alaskan Flowers Photography

Whispers in the Wind | Homer, Alaska

Alaskan Nature Photography

Fuzzy Blooms | Homer, Alaska

Plants live in paradise with the abundant sunlight fueling their larger than life growth during the Spring and Summer months. A splendid sight to see.

Best of Friends | Homer, Alaska

Best of Friends | Homer, Alaska

Daisies in Alaska

Daze of Daisies | Homer, Alaska

Reaching for the Sky | Homer, Alaska

Roses growing in Alaksa

Delicate Wilderness | Homer, Alaska

Flowers in Alaska

Bunches of Love | Homer, Alaska

Alaskan Garden Photography

Sun Burst | Homer, Alaska

Alaskan Garden

Punch of Color | Homer, Alaska

Flowers in Watering Pail Container | Alaska

Flowers in Watering Pail Container | Alaska

Fresh Cut Garden Flowers in Alaska

Fresh Cut Garden Flowers in Alaska

Potting in repurposed containers | Alaskan Garden

Potting in repurposed containers | Alaskan Garden

My Alaskan Adventure was Beautiful

A breathtaking Alaskan Adventure

To you Aunt Maryann, I love you dearly.

In Love, Emily Arnim – The Suburban Diary

{More on Travels to Alaska}

{Travel Guide} Wimberley Texas Eats

Wimberley, Texas… a charming hill country gem. Everything about this town is Texas, right down to the undeniable Southern charm. My adventure brought the lovely ladies of my family together for an unforgettable trip. Many amazing moments, laughs and priceless memories made around the table.

The Leaning Pear | Wimberley, Texas

The Leaning Pear

I still cannot stop thinking about the Spicy Peanut Soup and Poblano Pimento Cheese- haven’t had anything like it. This quaint Southern gourmet eatery is full of savory surprises for your tastebuds. The Leaning Pear is a local gem not to be missed while visiting Wimberley, Texas. Call or check Facebook for daily menu. [The Leaning Pear on Facebook]

Ino’z | Wimberley, Texas

Ino’z

Just follow the stone path under the rows of café lights and make your way back to the spirited patio under a canopy of trees. This casual and energetic spot has a menu full of bites to compliment the amazing drinks. Take a break from shopping and slide into Ino’z… You might just shuffle out! [Ino'z on Facebook]

Marco’s Italian Restaurant | Wimberley, Texas

Marco’s

Marco’s authentic Italian fare has found a home in Wimberely, Texas. Marco’s is nestled in the middle of the town square, through the stone gate and underneath the arbors filled with vines and café lights. I spotted the smiling Marco and his wife Eva, preparing the feast and working the kitchen… Like an old Italian couple deep in the heart of Texas, every dish is made with care. This is not the fastest venue in town, but it is most definitely worth every calorie. Bring your own wine and top off your meal with Italian coffee. (local wine shop in square)

Sip on the Square | Wimberley, Texas

Sip On the Square

Without Sip on the Square our feat through Wimberley would not be the same… Coffee is a MUST on my list! We started each morning with the delightful aroma of Sip on the Square and I cannot imagine it any other way. A friendly town coffee shop is always the best first stop and a fabulous place for a warm pick me up. [Sip on the Square on Facebook]

Sugar Shack Bakery | Wimberley, Texas

Sugar Shack Bakery

Venture outside of the square to load up on breakfast pastries, kolaches, sweets, breads and pies at the Sugar Shack Bakery. We walked in with a list and left with armfuls to last us the long weekend. Every bite was sinful and delicious… It is vacation after all, so we spoiled ourselves. [Sugar Shack on Facebook]

Wimberley has my heart and I cannot wait to visit again. More Wimberley Travel Guide to come…

{MORE}

Alaska Bonding Adventure

Austin The W Hotel

Anguilla Viceroy 

New York So Alive

Dear New York City {You are so Alive}

Emily Arnim | New York City | September 2012

Susan McWilliams | New York City | September 2012

Dear New York City, Spending six days in the city during Fashion Week with my cousin Susan, was not only full of amazing experiences, but turned out so differently from what I imagined. All of my great plans to attend shows and parties suddenly faded into your city lights, and I absorbed the city in an amazing way… New York City scooped up this Texas girl and took me on a vibrant adventure through a city so alive and filled with amazing energy. Every street, every building, every person, every window, every experience full of imagination… So incredible for my open eyes.

Central Park | New York City | The Suburban Diary

The City of Lights | New York City | The Suburban Diary

New York City, you are where the World turns, where the magic happens… People will forever take pieces of you and scatter them throughout the World. The fashion, the art, the culture, the history, the business, the pace of life… You have the World’s financiers, creators, outsiders who suddenly fit into this grand world, the go-getters who have every opportunity surrounding them, the unknowns trying to be known, the dreamers living life, and travelers from across the globe trying to soak up a piece of the city… You are alive, and I have fallen in love.

Lush Violet Windows | Bergdorf Goodman | New York City | The Suburban Diary

Dream Downtown | New York City | The Suburban Diary

LOVE Street Art | New York City | The Suburban Diary

Do I love my Texas? You better believe it! I know my heart belongs to Texas, but I also know that a piece of you lies inside of me and will blossom in my life. New York City, you injected a new piece of life into my soul and opened my eyes even more to this amazing world. My breath is full of life reliving the magic.

Life delights in Life | Ace Hotel | New York City | The Suburban Diary

Until next time New York City. xo Emily Arnim

{Stay tuned for more of my adventures through New York City}

Skyline from the Suburban to LGA | New York City | The Suburban Diary

Travel Style Alaska : Mix + Match Packing

A snowy heart on the mountain – Katmai National Park in Alaska

Ahh my Alaskan Adventure, how sweet the sound… I close my eyes and go back to the crisp clean air and the 360 degree view of natural beauty. I have volumes to share on my Alaskan Adventure, but thought I would begin highlighting my Travel Style and Travel Packing Tips. Trying to fit plenty of options in a suitcase is not easy, but learning how to pack seems to get easier the more I travel. Here are some of my favorite Packing Tips and Personal Travel Style Advice

1. Begin packing a week to days early by setting your clothes out in piles. Look at them every time you pass by and really think smart about your choices.

2. Packing in sets so I can mix and match is key. I group items together that I can style depending on my mood and situation.

3. I am never afraid to wear the same thing over again.

4. I like the ability to layer pieces.

5. Roll most of your clothes, don’t fold them.

6. Stuff open spaces and shoes with small items to utilize space.

Comfort is Key when flying and relaxing

Wildfox tee and sweater, Lululemon leggingsThe North Face jacketUgg boots }

Outdoor Comfort and Style ready for an adventure

Eddie Bauer vest and topNation LTD teeTrue Religion top7 for all Mankind khaki riding pantsFrye riding bootsHunter wellies }

When a touch of Chic is needed

Left on Houston Navajo ponchoVince sweatersBanana Republic sweaterBleu Lab reversible coated jeansVince white jeansBurberry blouseTrue Religion cutoff shortsFrye riding bootsSperry gold boat shoesHunter wellies }

Warm Adventure Optional Gear

LululemonSun and Ski Sports finds, REI finds paired with my grey Nike tennis shoes }

Mix and Match for a stress free wardrobe with room left for creativity on your Travels.

{Shop my Finds}

Favorite Shopping Destinations

Tootsies, Southern Hippie, Gilt, Burberry Outlet, True Religion Outlet

{Alaska Bound} Beautiful Bonding Adventure

Kenai River Scenic Rafting in Cooper Landing, Alaska | Photo Credit: Alaska Rivers Company on Facebook


A peek inside Travel Plans for our Trip to Homer, Alaska. A week in a breathtakingly beautiful wilderness sanctuary will be nothing short of amazing. In July the Sun Rises after five and partially sets around eleven, the Temp is about 40-60 with full sun at times, and rain highly possible too. A place like Alaska is truly a gem… It will be an amazing trip for our family. Icing on the cake, we will be visiting my Aunt who has lived in Alaska since the early 80′s. She will be the perfect compliment to our trip, as well as an experienced tour guide.

Lodging

Land’s End Resort in Homer, Alaska | Photo Credit: Land’s End Resort on Facebook

Land’s End Resort } Homer, Alaska

Bear Creek Winery + Inn – Homer, Alaska | Photo Credit: Bear Creek Winery on Facebook

Bear Creek Winery Bed + Breakfast } Homer, Alaska

Visitor Center

Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center in Homer, Alaska | Photo Credit: Alaska Islands Website

Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center } Homer, Alaska

Exhibits, Alaska Information, Outdoor Trails

Adventure

Bear Viewing | Photo Credit: Alaska Bear Company on Facebook

{Scenic Plane Ride + Bear Viewing} Homer, Alaska

Depart Homer and fly an hour and a half to Katmai/Lake Clark National Parks with Alaska Bear Viewing Company. Enjoy the Scenic Flight to a Beach where we will join the bears on foot. See Glaciers, Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Whales on most days, and of course Wildlife.

Danny J Ferry to the Saltry Restaurant on Halibut Cove | Photo Credit: Saltry on Facebook

Saltry Restaurant in Halibut Cove Alaska | Photo Credit: Saltry on Facebook

{Danny J Passenger Ferry + Saltry’s Dinner in the Cove}

Boat ride across Kenai Peninsula town of Homer, Alaska to Halibut Cove. Cruise aboard the Kachemak Bay Ferry through the scenic and vibrant waters to a Restaurant in a Cove, surrounded by water, wildlife, forests and mountains. After dinner walk down the Boardwalk to visit a couple of shops in the Artsy Waterside Town. Enjoy the beauty of the enchanting Horse Farm.

Horse Farm in Halibut Cove, Alaska | Photo Credit: Saltry on Facebook

{Kenai River Scenic Rafting Tour}

Scenic two hour drive through Alaska to Kenai- might be making a few stops along the way. Easy Scenic Waters, Rapids, Gourmet Picnic on the River Bank and a possible hike if the lake is impassable. Rain or Shine- this trip happens. :)

Alaska Rivers Company Kenai River Scenic Rafting Cooper Landing, Alaska | Photo Credit: Alaska Rivers Company on Facebook

Gourmet Picnic on the River Bank | Photo Credit: Alaska Rivers Company on Facebook

{ Bishop’s Beach } Homer, Alaska

Bishop’s Beach Walking, Hiking and Sea Life Viewing – Homer, Alaska | Photo Credit: Alaska Visitors Guide

Salty Dawg Saloon } Homer, Alaska

Salty Dawg in Homer, Alaska – We hear it is a classic! | Photo Credit: Localism

Fishing, hiking, bicycling, walking along the shores, and simply taking it all in will provide for a memorable trip to Homer, Alaska. Visiting Bishop’s Beach, meeting the locals, visiting the small shops, eating on the water… The possibilities are plentiful.

Off, Off and Away…

{ Connect }  TwitterFacebook Instagram to watch the Journey

XO- Emily Arnim

Read { Travel }


{Travel Style} Trending Map Fashion

Trending Now: Fashion to Put you on the Map- Literally! Map Fashion is not a trend I have spotted yet in person, but I will completely embrace this up and coming trend. Whether you are a globe-trotter, a dreamer, an adventurer, a studious geographer, or a fashionably free spirit, Chic + Fashionable Map Pieces are trending now and make me anxious to Travel somewhere far away- STAT!

Map Print Tee by Tee and Cake sold by: TopShop

{Creative Styling}

Of course you can always go to your fab white denim, favorite pair of jeans, or a simple short to pair with this Map Print Tee… But if you want to get creative and invest in pieces you can mix with other outfits… This Ivory Boyfriend Blazer by TopShop and these lovely Denim Scalloped Edge Shorts by Ted Baker are perfect. When you are traveling, denim and blazers are great pieces to mix and match to create maximum looks with minimal pieces. Blazers are great for layering and denim is a no-brainer.

Ponte Ivory Boyfriend Blazer | Sold by: TopShop

Ted Baker Scalloped Denim Shorts

Gold and Nude Shoes are such versatile traveling companions – you can mix them with just about everything. If comfort is key, choose a wedge.

DVF Opal Nude Blush Wedge

Jimmy Choo Nude Patent Leather ‘Anouk’ Pointed Toe Stilettos

{Accessorize} Add a wow factor to your look…

Gold Fedora Eugenia Kim Abby Belt-Trimmed Straw Sunhat

Love my Arm Candy, John Wind, Louis Vuitton, Burberry Bracelets

Kate Spade Gold Cross Body Flickr Scout Bag

“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for” – John A. Shedd

XO- Emily 

More {Travel}

More {Fashion}

W Hotel Austin: Glam + Modern

Oh what a divine time I had during my stay at the W hotel in Downtown Austin. The W hotel perfected every detail and provided stellar service. The glamourous hotel with modern touches and evidence of Texas set the stage for my amazing stay. The W hotel is a vacation within itself.

My “Fantastic” Suite Living Room at the W Hotel Austin was totally glam

Mr Willie Nelson, 1983 Rocked the grey wall in the “Fantastic Suite” | W hotel Austin

The Perfect Butlers Cart + Mini Bar | W Hotel Austin

The View of Lady Bird Lake from the 16th Floor “Fantastic” Suite at the W hotel in Austin

In Lieu of an Elevator Attendant, a Good Evening Rug | W Hotel Austin

The “Living Room” at the W hotel is glam & cozy | W Hotel Austin

My table in the Living Room Bar Area | W Hotel Austin

Empanadas and Cheese Plate | W Hotel Austin

And Good Morning to You | W Hotel Austin

My photo setup for Grapeseed Oil- Are you using it yet?

Want to get away? Austin, Texas is a great getaway even if you have no real reason to visit. W hotel in Downtown Austin is absolutely splendid. What’s not to love about a glam hotel with amazing energy and buzzing with interesting people? Within the blocks surrounding the W Hotel you’ll find shopping, signature Austin eateries, Lady Bird Lake and trails for the fitness enthusiast. You are in the heart of walking blocks- no need to drive anywhere.

Happy Travels.

XO- 

Emily Arnim

Want to know about some of my other travels?

Real Housewives of Orange County Give Glamping a Bad Name

Real Housewives of Orange County Glamping at El Capitan Photo: She Knows Reality TV

After watching the Real Housewives of Orange County Glamping Episode, Above the Fire Line, I thought the Housewives severely damaged the term “Glamping” for anyone watching! Cabins, cooking yourself, sub par accommodations, that is not glamping, they simply roughed it at the El Capitan Canyon in Goleta,California!

Glamping at Paws Up Luxury Dude Ranch in Greenough, Montana

If you want a true taste of Glamping, Glamorous Camping, there are some fine places around the United States to go. My personal travel wish list is reigning with a trip to Paws Up Luxury Dude Ranch in Greenough, Montana. I am still waiting to visit the fabulous 37,000 acre ranch nestled in the mountainous region of Montana. Paws Up is absolutely breathtaking and the reviews are RAVING! From Haute Cuisine, to Butlers, to Sumptuous Beds, I cannot wait to visit this beautiful site in the middle of stunning nature- I cannot wait to experience what True Glamping is all about… LOVE!

Glamping at Paws Up Luxury Dude Ranch in Greenough, Montana

Glamping anyone??

Happy Trails to You,

Emily Arnim


{Reserved} Viceroy Anguilla Here We Come

Oh my goodness- taking a trip off my Travel Wish List… We just booked our trip to Anguilla and I am ecstatic! We’ve needed a relaxing vacation by ourselves and now we are on our way. A one-bedroom residence for 7 nights is calling our names at the Viceroy Anguilla.

Viceroy Anguilla: It is serene, pristine, decorated impeccably by the world-renowned Kelly Wearstler and managed with perfect detail. Looks pretty amazing to me! Viceroy Anguilla boasts a sunrise pool for the morning sun, sunset pool for the afternoon sun, a beautiful white beach with turquoise waters, sunset lounge with panoramic views of the ocean and a DJ playing tranquil European and Reggae music… Perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap! Wrap me up and take me there now please, I’m ready.

Time to get myself beach ready.

Want More? Visit The Suburban Diary Home Page or Visit my Travel Page!