Showing posts with label The Sakura Bloom Styleathon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Sakura Bloom Styleathon. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

The Sakura Bloom Styleathon Giveaway Winners + Round 3 Update

Styleathon contestants, Elizabeth and "Miss" James,
wearing their daughters in Pure Collection slings.

I am so thrilled to announce the 3 winners of our latest Styleathon giveaway! Chosen at random from the valid entries, they are:

Finance and Happiness, Kim, and Susan Magnolia

Congratulations, ladies, and thanks for entering!

I also wanted to take this opportunity to talk about a slight adjustment that we've made to the requirements for Round 3 of the Styleathon. We've already let the contestants know, but of course I want to keep you in the loop as well ;)

Upon further reflection, Lynne (from Sakura Bloom) and I realized that the video requirement for Round 3 of the Styleathon might put some of the contestants at an unfair disadvantage, due to lack of video-editing experience/equipment. Because of this, we have decided to add a photo option to the final round of the Styleathon. Now, the participants can each choose to complete their entries in either a photo OR video format, whichever they prefer (see specifics below).

Here are the revised, official requirements for Round 3:

Video Option: Create a video centered around a new Sakura Bloom sling, Styleathon accessories and items from your own wardrobe. Your video can be impressionistic, instructional, comedy or drama. It can be all of the above or none of the above. It's up to you to decide what genre or approach will best capture what you want to share with others.

-or-

Photo Option: Submit a series of documentary-style photos that are inspired by the phrase, "a babywearing day-in-the-life." Whether that means you're at home, out running errands, traveling, or attending a special event (or a little bit of all those!). Include a few words that tell us more about what you're doing and how babywearing helps you get through the day.


We are so impressed by everyone's entries so far, and we can't wait to see what they create next! Thanks for following along, and for all the amazing feedback. XOXO, Leigh

Thursday, July 7, 2011

The Sakura Bloom Styleathon: Reader Giveaway and Round 3 Assignment!

Styleathon mamas wearing their babies in Pure Collection slings

Time for another giveaway, mamas! And this time it's really exciting: THREE lucky winners will receive their choice of linen sling from Sakura Bloom's Pure Collection. To enter, just leave a relevant comment with your email address on this post by Sunday, July 10th at 11:59 pm. Good luck!

Congratulations to Jennifer Vidalon, winner of the Round 2 Giveaway! Thanks to all who entered :)

And now, Elizabeth, Joanna, Danielle, Natalie, "Miss" James, Jen, Sharmadean, Melisa and Aura, here is the your next (and final) assignment:

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

The Sakura Bloom Styleathon, Round 2 Roundup!

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Elizabeth Antonia, of The Littlest, will pull at your heartstrings
with her post, Mama Kanga, Baby Roo

For their Round 2 entries, The Sakura Bloom Styleathon bloggers were asked to create a look inspired by their sense of adventure or occasion -- and wowza, did they ever deliver the goods! I am so inspired, delighted, and amazed by these wonderful mamas and their gorgeous images and beautiful thoughts on babywearing and life. Here's a little preview, but be sure to click through to each blog to see every post in its entirety.

In her post, Natalie of NatTheFatRat pontificates as only she can, with quirky humor and grace to spare, on living the life of your dreams.

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Aura, of Aura Joon, again melds poetry and soulful reflections on motherhood
with beautiful images of her own little paradise in Why I Choose to Wear My Baby.

Against a stunning natural background, Danielle, of Sometimes Sweet,
talks movingly in her post about how babywearing has enriched her life.

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"Miss" James, of Bleubird Vintage, offers a post full of tender thoughts about savoring closeness with her little one in a sling. And she rocks the heck out of a pair of Chloe heels.

In Adventures in Babywearing, Joanna, of A Cup of Jo, goes fishing for the first time
and finds her sling to be the perfect aid to outdoorsy adventuring with Toby.

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This time, Melisa, of The Lil Bee, bonds with her oldest daughter through
sling-wearing, and the importance of transforming everyday routines into magical adventures.

In a beautiful, sun-drenched post, Jen, of Jen Loves Kev, talks about how babywearing helps her to instill her daughter with a deep passion for adventure and living life to the fullest.

Please check out all the Round 2 posts, and let me know what you think! Who are your favorites? Which mama's words resonate most with your own experience? I would love to know your thoughts!

And don't forget to stay tuned for another Styleathon giveaway and the Round 3 Assignment...

Thursday, June 23, 2011

The Sakura Bloom Styleathon: Round 2 Assignment

Elizabeth, Joanna, Danielle, Natalie, "Miss" James, Jen, Sharmadean, Melisa, and Aura have until 11:59 pm, July 5 to post their Round 2 entries on their respective blogs, before we move on to Round 3.

Our goal is to encourage as much freedom of expression as possible in the blogger's entries, while providing them with items that fuel their imaginations. In that spirit, we have one simple guideline:
  • Each item received from the Styleathon sponsors must make at least one appearance in at least one round of the Styleathon.
The competition will culminate, in late July, with the announcement of a Grand Prize Winner, chosen by our panel of judges.

Marvelous Kiddo readers: If you babywear, I would love to hear your thoughts on how doing so has affected your life. Leave a comment on this post. Thanks! And don't forget to enter the giveaway!!!

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

The Sakura Bloom Styleathon: Meet the Judges

With the first of 3 Rounds behind us, it's clear that the Styleathon judges will have their work cut out for them choosing the Grand Prize Winner! Just who are the folks who will be weighing the entries? Allow me to introduce them:

Stephanie Precourt -- The woman behind the wildly popular blog, Adventures in Babywearing and hostess of The Sakura Bloom Triathlon, precurser of the Styleathon.

Pauline Nakios -- Owner and Creative Director of Lilla P

Lynne Banach -- Owner and Creative Director of Sakura Bloom

Selima Salaun -- Owner and Designer, Selima Optique

Andrea Tobin -- Owner and Designer, Marla Cielo

Are you enjoying following along with the Styleathon action? Don't forget to spread the love by grabbing an official button, here. Also, you can keep up with all the participants on Twitter by following this group! Thanks for your enthusiasm :)

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

The Sakura Bloom Styleathon: Reader Giveaway! Silk Sling + Marla Cielo Wristlet

Now that all the Styleathon contestant's Round 1 entries have been submitted, it's time for another reader giveaway!

Up for grabs this week are two amazing items: A Sakura Bloom sling from any of our silk collections (winners choice of style and color!) and a gorgeous Marla Cielo Suenos Wristlet.


I will randomly select one winner from the eligible entrants.

Entering couldn't be simpler:

Be sure to check out all the Styleathon Round 1 entries (Elizabeth, Joanna, Danielle, Natalie, "Miss" James, Jen, Sharmadean, Melisa, and Aura), and leave a comment on this post along with your email address (even if you think I know it already!) NOTE: The original question included as a requirement for entering this giveaway has been omitted. All previous entries will remain valid. Thank you so much for your participation!

The deadline to enter is 11:59 EST, Sunday, June 26.

Good Luck!

XOXO,
Leigh

PS: Congratulations to Nicole, winner of the first Styleathon reader giveaway. Nicole will receive a Sakura Bloom sling and a $250 gift card from Lilla P. Thank you to everyone who entered and shared great thoughts about motherhood and style!

COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED FOR THIS GIVEAWAY. THANK YOU FOR ENTERING! WE WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNER SOON ;)

Monday, June 20, 2011

UPDATED: The Sakura Bloom Styleathon, Round 1 Entries!!!

Have you been keeping up with the Sakura Bloom Styleathon contestants? If not, you should be, since all nine of them have now posted their Round 1 entries on their own blogs.

I cannot tell you how moved I am by all of their words and photos. What a talented, articulate, beautiful group of mamas! I am truly humbled and honored to know these ladies.

Now run over and check out all the incredible Styleathon entries, and prepare to be inspired and delighted. Here are links to the posts (in no particular order):

Danielle (and Henry) of Sometimes Sweet

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Elizabeth (and Elodie) of The Littlest

Natalie (and Huck) of Nat The Fat Rat

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Joanna (and Toby) of A Cup of Jo

Sharmadean (and Roman) of London Momma

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Jen (and Rowan) of Jen Loves Kev

Aura (and Elodie) of Aura Joon

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Melisa (and Blake) of The Lil Bee

"Miss" James (and Gemma Bird) of Bleubird Vintage

Stay tuned to Marvelous Kiddo for our second amazing Styleathon giveaway and the Round 2 Assignment! Fun!

Friday, June 10, 2011

sling tips + huge thanks

I wanted to share these two great diagrams that show some helpful tips for wearing your baby in a ring sling. By following these simple pointers, you will maximize the ease and comfort of wearing your kiddo in this style of carrier.

I also wanted to say a huge "thank you" to an amazing group of women who helped to make the Sakura Bloom Styleathon possible. These babywearing experts met with each of the contestants to give them a private, one-on-one introduction to using their new slings. Their help was invaluable, and it is my pleasure to introduce them to you:

Bianca and Joanna -- Metro Minis
Caprice --- The Art of Babywearing
Giselle --- Granola Babies
Kelsey --- A Woman's Work
Morgan/Heather --- Green Bambino
Susan --- Babywearers of Pheonix

Since these women have such a wealth of knowledge, we asked them to each share their favorite sling-wearing insight. Here's what they said (I love their thoughts and advice -- even after wearing my kids in ring slings for years I found this information to be so helpful!)
A ring sling is so much more than just a baby carrier--it is a nursing cover, sun shade, burp cloth, changing pad, blanket, and fashion statement! -- Kelsey

Before putting baby in the ring sling, make the pocket so you have just enough room to put in baby. This way once baby is in the ring sling you have little tightening to make. -- Giselle

When tightening your sling, grab the tail about 1.5-2" from the rings and pull the material *up* first, then diagonally away from your body, following the diagonal seam of the tail. (Pulling down on the tail to tighten leads to dreaded ring slippage!) -- Caprice

I love the ring part of the sling for hanging a toy/teether/pacifier from. It's fun to watch active babies reach for and play with whatever you have hung there, and it's a great distraction for cranky babies! --Heather
Choose a sling that is reflective of your personal style. It is your accessory, so pick a color and material that matches items you wear, regardless of your baby's sex.-- Susan
Put the baby on your body where you want them to end up, practice, practice, practice, and take a breath when you are done and relax your shoulders. -- Joanna

Are you an experienced ring-sling-wearer? What is your favorite trick, tip, or advice? Leave a comment letting me know!

Thursday, June 9, 2011

grab a button and share the styleathon love!







Wednesday, June 8, 2011

The Sakura Bloom Styleathon: Round 1 Assignment + Reader Giveaway

Now that you've met our amazing bloggers and our exciting sponsors, let's get down to business. I am am excited to announce our first assignment:


Elizabeth, Joanna, Danielle, Natalie, "Miss" James, Jen, Sharmadean, Melisa, and Aura have until 11:59 pm, June 20th to post their Round 1 entries on their respective blogs, before we move on to Round Two later that week.

Our goal is to encourage as much freedom of expression as possible in the blogger's entries, while providing them with items that fuel their imaginations. In that spirit, we have one simple guideline:
  • Each item received from the Styleathon sponsors must make at least one appearance in at least one round of the Styleathon.
The competition will culminate, in late July, with the announcement of a Grand Prize Winner, chosen by our panel of judges (you'll meet them soon).

Grand Prize Package
  • The iPad 2, in winner's choice of color
  • A collaboration with Lynne Banach, Owner of Sakura Bloom, designing a signature collection of slings (a portion of the proceeds from the line will go to the winning blogger's charity of choice)
  • Custom portrait of winner and baby in a Sakura Bloom sling, by Samantha Hahn
  • Custom Marla Cielo handbag designed exclusively for the Styleathon winner by Andrea Tobin.
  • $250 gift certificate to Lilla P and personalized shopping spree with the Owner and Creative Director of Lilla P, Pauline Nakios
  • A pair of frames from Selima Optique, chosen for the winner by Selima Salaun, herself

And now, for our first Styleathon Reader Giveaway!

I will randomly select one winner from the eligible entrants. The winner can then select their favorite sling from any of Sakura Bloom's linen collections, and will also receive a $250 Lilla P gift card!

Here's how to enter:

1. Leave a brief comment on this post telling us about a mother in your life whose style you admire.

2. Be sure to leave your email address (even if you think I know it already!)

The deadline to enter is 11:59 EST, Sunday, June 12.

Thanks, and Good Luck!

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

The Sakura Bloom Styleathon: Meet the Sponsors

Now that you've met our contestants, allow me to introduce you to the fabulous folks that are making the Styleathon possible with their generous support. I am so thrilled to be able to collaborate with these sponsors and share their amazing offerings with you!

Photo by Sabrina Bean.
Dedicated to making the world’s finest baby carriers out of exquisite natural fibers—organic Irish linens, Indian dupioni silks, and southeast Asian wild silks—Sakura Bloom is committed to simplifying and beautifying modern parenting.

Stylish and convenient. With a Sakura Bloom sling, there is almost nothing you and your baby can’t do. Walking city blocks. Browsing farmers’ markets. Sending email, baking brownies, and feeding baby. All at the same time. At home, in town, while traveling, a Sakura Bloom sling shoulders beauty with function, enabling you to parent in your own way while allowing your child to be an active part of the world around him.

All Sakura Bloom slings are made in the USA; these are hand-crafted artisan baby slings with simple, classic lines that will last from the newborn stage through the toddler years. At Sakura Bloom, small things (and small people) matter. Socially responsible business practices. Low environmental impacts. Conscious parenting. And large doses of laughter and unconditional love. We source our products from like-minded companies whenever possible. Our commitments are global, our passions are local.

For more information, visit SakuraBloom.com, and be sure become a part of the Sakura Bloom community on Facebook.

Selima Salaun, a trend-setting designer, member of the Council of Fashion Designer of America, and professional optician and optometrist, is the mastermind behind the luxurious eye wear collection that VIP's of the fashion, music and cinema industries just can't seem to get enough of.

To accommodate the heavy demand, her eight boutiques between New York, LA and Paris dispense high profile fashion in the form of sleek high quality frames that come in 100 shapes and tantalizing colors to suit anyone from your corporate CEO to your trendy downtown Bohemian. For Selima, eye wear is an integral part of one's wardrobe, and just as one plays with different looks in fashion, why shouldn't one do the same with glasses? Change your glasses to compliment that outfit of yours, or your mood that day, and have fun with it!

To stay in the loop about all things Selima Optique, check out the website, subscribe to the official blog and "like" on Facebook.

Inspired by the modern woman, Lilla P is a collection that is perfectly tailored for a casual lifestyle. Each season, Lilla P returns to the brand ethos by rethinking the classics to create a collection of separates that are both flattering and functional.

Unfettered yet full of subtle detail and pared down luxury, Lilla P’s hallmarks are clean lines, quality fabrications and an impeccable fit. Starting in 1998 with the essential tee, the collection has expanded to include sophisticated staples and key fashion items including a variety of tee shirts, item jackets, lightweight sweaters, dresses and skirts that are available in a variety of luxurious fabrications and colors.

Each season, the line continues to develop and grow in an exciting direction. Since its inception, Lilla P has cultivated a devoted coterie of chic specialty retailers that can be found throughout the United States and Canada.

Be sure to check out Lilla P on Twitter and Facebook!

Marla Cielo is a line of luxury accessories with a cult following, designed by New York artist Andrea Tobin. Marla Cielo embodies the fusion of creative passion and functional design. Their products transcend styles and stereotypes creating a universal appeal that makes the day to day more intriguing.

Check out the website to see the whole range, follow on Twitter, and "Like" on Facebook.

Andrea herself has taken the time to select an bag for each of the Styleathon contestants, based on her knowledge of their blogs. Here are her notes to each blogger:

Elizabeth Antonia, The Littlest.
Elizabeth will receive the Envelope Wallet in Journal Gold. Elizabeth’s dreamy and artistic style will be perfectly complemented by this variation of the Journal print. The oversized wallet style is the perfect mix of function and style for this designer and full time mom.

Joanna Goddard, A Cup of Jo.
Joanna will receive the Day Tote in Waves Print. The Day Tote is the perfect carryall for summer in a vibrant print with classic, yet industrious steel grey leather lining. Perfect for carrying all of Toby’s toys and necessities, it will also stay on her shoulder for bike rides through the city.

Danielle Hampton, Sometimes Sweet.
Danielle will receive the oversized clutch in Waves print. This edgy mom deserves an equally edgy yet functional clutch. The graphic print and oversized style reflect her rock-and-roll aesthetic, but still has room to sneak in those on-the-go baby essentials.

Natalie Holbrook, Nat the Fat Rat.
Natalie will receive the Evening Clutch in Journal Titan. Journal Titan is a signature Marla print in our newest evening clutch style. This new mommy will definitely need a night out baby-free and this print and style are perfect for a sophisticated, Manhattan night out.

Jen Lula, Jen Loves Kev.
Jen will receive the Wallet in Summer Plaid. This eclectic colorful print will be a fun addition to all of Jen’s thrifty outfit creations. The sleek shape will hold keys and basic essentials for quick errands around town and will be a funky juxtaposition to her vintage finds.

"Miss" James Kicinski, Bleubird Vintage.
James will receive the Wristlet in Suenos. Suenos is the brightest and boldest print in the bunch, completely necessary for her vibrant and eclectic, vintage-infused style. Plus for a mother of three, this can easily be slung on your wrist as you run about town.

Sharmadean Reid, London Momma.
Sharmadean will receive the Envelope Clutch in Summer Plaid. As a London fashion fixture, Sharmadean needs something bold and of the moment. This print is an exclusive summer creation, and the classic shape will mix with all of her looks as she jaunts between business engagements and play dates.

Melissa Russo, The Lil Bee.
Melissa will receive the Wristlet in Journal Titan. This hilarious mommy blogger has her hands full with a house full of two beautiful baby girls and dogs. The wristlet can be slipped onto the stroller handle, wrist, or dog leash. The signature Marla print will match perfectly with anything this fashion insider wears out the door.

Aura Stuemky, Aura Joon.
Aura will receive the Shoulder Bag in Purple Heart. One of Marla’s most intricate prints, this bag is equal parts bohemian and glamorous, with a functional shape for Aura’s adventures.

Samantha Hahn’s illustrations feature delicate pen work and brightly colored inks. The New York Times referred to her watercolor work as “winsome”. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and toddler.

A few of her clients include: Anthropologie, Barnes and Noble, Glamour Magazine, Marie Claire Magazine, Surface Magazine. Her Exhibits include: “Fashion Illustration: Visual Poetry” at Gallery Hanahou, “Lady” show at Charles Nolan, “20/10″ at Gallery Hanahou, “Aesopica” at Rare Device and a solo show at The Art Institute of Tampa. Samantha’s work has been featured in art and design books including: Coolhunting by Marta Dominguez Riezu (Parramon Publishing), Print and Pattern by Bowie Style (Lawrence King Publishing) and Crafting a Meaningful Home by Meg Mateo Ilasco (Abrams Publishing), Her illustrations for Glamour Magazine were recently chosen by American Illustration 28.

Samantha has a BFA in illustration (Syracuse University) and MA in art education (Columbia University).

For recent work and various art, design and style inspiration visit her blog, Maquette. Prints and originals can be purchased online at Gallery Hanahau.

Monday, June 6, 2011

Welcome to a Babywearing Style Documentary!

Illustration by the amazing Samantha Hahn

Y'know how I mentioned a while back that I've been working on a fun project in collaboration with Sakura Bloom? And then last week I said I have a big surprise? Well, after months of preparation, we are finally ready to reveal the big news and get this party started!

Beginning now and extending over the next couple of months, I will be the hostess, here on Marvelous Kiddo, of the first-ever Sakura Bloom Styleathon. Follow along with nine of the most influential, trend-setting women in the blogosphere (and their babies!) as they fire up their fashion savvy and compete to style the most fabulous, original outfits around Sakura Bloom slings and key wardrobe pieces. Here's the really fun part, and where you come in: the Styleathon is a unique, interactive event designed to spread the love to our readers, with frequent opportunities to win the same items featured by your favorite bloggers!

In three rounds of multi-media Style Assignments, the Styleathon contestants will be challenged to new heights of sartorial genius as we provide them with items to fuel their imaginations -- luxurious linen and silk baby slings by Sakura Bloom, clothing by Lilla P, eyewear by Selima Optique, and handbags by Marla Cielo.

Utilizing their hallmark photography skills, knack for writing, and natural personal style, each contestant will express their take on motherhood and individuality as they document their Styleathon outfits for a shot at the Grand Prize, with the winner selected by an independent panel of judges. Note: this is not a popularity contest! Participants' entries will be evaluated on the strengths of their creativity, originality, content, and sense of style.

I became part of the Sakura Bloom team after using their slings with both of my kids and realizing that this product is the perfect parenting tool for me -- both an essential way to get through the day with a happy baby (and my hands free!) and one of the most beautiful things in my closet. Dedicated to making the world's finest baby carriers out of exquisite natural fibers -- organic Irish linens, Indian dupioni silks, and southeast Asian wild silks -- Sakura Bloom is committed to simplifying and beautifying modern parenting.

Keep up with all the fashion-action on Marvelous Kiddo, and you too will have a chance to win an incredible array of products from the Styleathon sponsors, including slings, clothing, handbags, and sunglasses! Tomorrow, meet our amazing sponsors, and be sure to come back Wednesday, June 8th, for the contestant's first Styleathon Assignment as well as your first chance to win.

Meet the Styleathon Contestants

The nine bloggers featured here come from all over, they have a diverse range of styles and backgrounds, and their babies range in age from just weeks old to two and a half years old. What they all have in common is a strong point of view when it comes to their fashion, and a strong dedication to sharing their personal motherhood journeys with humor, candor, love, and humanity. The spirit of the Styleathon is a celebration of these women in all their fabulous, inspiring, wonderful glory.

And so, without further ado, it is my pleasure to introduce you (in alphabetical order) to the fabulous mama-bloggers of the Sakura Bloom Styleathon:

Elizabeth Antonia of The Littlest

Joanna Goddard of A Cup of Jo

Danielle Hampton of Sometimes Sweet

Natalie Holbrook of Nat the Fat Rat

"Miss" James Kicinski of Bleubird Vintage

Jen Lula of Jen Loves Kev

Sharmadean Reid of London Momma

Melisa Russo of The Lil Bee

Aura Stuemky of Aura Joon

I want to join with Lynne, of Sakura Bloom, in saying a special thank-you to Stephanie Precourt, of Adventures in Babywearing, for her loyal friendship and help, her advocacy of babywearing, and for paving the way for the Styleathon.