Ashley Ariela Photography!

Have you ever discovered someplace, and wondered why you hadn't been there before? Like how could I have missed something so close to home for so long? That's how I felt upon arrival at the Detroit Riverwalk. A beautiful riverside path, complete with park, lighthouse, and all. I had the pleasure of finding this gem by suggestion of local photographer, Ashley Ariela. We connected for a photoshoot, and chose to meet at this location. We chatted about her longtime hobby turning into her really going for photography. And after 10 years of experience, she's gotten quite spectacular! With background in weddings, families, children, senior photos, and models, she's covered quite a range. She was sweet, and gave great guidance as to how I could help her achieve her portrait vision. She also gave my sister and usual photographer, Emily, great insight into furthering her skills. We moved from place to place, capturing different angles and scenery to really tell a great story. One of a lovely leisurely walk on the water, that lead to strolling the streets of Detroit.

Thank you Ashley, for a great time, and some great pictures! If you'd like to view her work, or work with her yourself, connect with her at http://www.ashleyariela.com, http://facebook.com/ashleyarielaphoto, or @ashleyariela on Instagram! 

Renew The Detroit Zoo!

A few weeks back, my close friends and I took a day trip to the Detroit Zoo. Sure we wanted to see the animals, but our main motivation was the new Polk Penguin Conservation Center. I was especially giddy about this, seeing as penguins are my favorite animals, and it is now the largest penguin center in the world! The massive 33,000 square foot building cost $30 million to construct! This makes sense, seeing as it holds a 326,000 gallon, 25 foot deep aquatic area filled with 80 penguins from four different species! Inside, was wall to wall tunnels and windows with breathtaking views of penguins chilling (ha, literally) on icebergs, and swimming over our heads. As if that wasn't enough, there's also a giant 360 degrees 4-D ship experience that feels like you're standing on a ship crashing through the Antarctic waters. While walking through, you can feel blasts of polar air, sea mist, and falling snow. I loved every second of it! We then vetured on to see the tigers, lions, and bears, oh my ;) Of course, we also made sure to tour the reptile, amphibian, and butterfly houses. I had a pretty magical moment in the butterfly gardens, where tons of blue butterflies were landing on me. A guy who worked there commented that they were Blue Morpho butterflies, also known to be the "social butterfly". Let's just say that the trip was a wild time ;) If you're a resident of Macomb, Oakland, or Wayne country, you can vote "Yes" to "Renew the Zoo" on August 2nd. This millage will renew a one-tenth millage property tax for 10 years to support the Detroit Zoo. For example, if your house is worth $200,000, the cost would only be $10 a year. So don't forget to vote "Yes" to support our furry (and not so furry) friends! And make sure to visit the zoo's spectacular new Penguin Center and all your other favorite fuzzies :)

Shopping Zaful!

Admittedly I've never been a big online shopper. I'm always nervous that a dress that looks worthy of a princess might arrive looking more fit for a peasant! Not to mention the outrageous prices! Shopping at Zaful may have rid me of my online jitters. With hundreds of items to chose from, more than reasonable prices, and fast and efficient shipping, the experience was far from nerve-wracking! Plus I totally felt like a princess when my dress arrived ;) I chose a dress with a crochet top, open back, and high-low floral skirt. I also chose a ribbed, lace-up tank. Both items arrived neatly packaged, and exactly as they looked online. Excitedly, I tried them on to find that they were also super flattering! Zaful also carries jewelry, accessories, swimsuits, and more! Below this post, you can find all my outfit links and details, links to Zaful coupons, and their various sites and social media! Happy shopping, fashionistas!

Photos: Emily Joanne Photography 

Top look. Dress: Zaful, Sandals: Marc Fisher, Jewels: Francesca's Collections, Watch: Michael Kors 

Bottom look. Top: Zaful, Bralette: Victoria's Secret, Skirt: Francesca's Collections, Sandals: Michael Kors, Bag: Marc Fisher, Watch: Michael Kors, Earrings: Francesca's Collections, Necklace: Guys N Gals

 Brand: http://www.zaful.com?lkid=14992

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Product: http://m.zaful.com/solid-color-cami-lace-up-tank-top-p_163469.html?lkid=14992

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Coupon Codes: http://www.retailmenot.com/view/zaful.com?lkid=14992