Simply Happy Blog - Simply Happy Brand

Pay It Forward Day

4/30/2015

Giving and helping are something Erica and I truly value...case in point...The Giving Tee. Any opportunity to help out we are on board, so you can imagine how we feel about Pay It Forward Day. You don’t need a special day to Pay It Forward BUT since today is Pay It Forward Day here are some easy things you can do to keep the momentum going:

Buy someone a cup of coffee; whether friend, co-worker or the next person in line at Starbucks, you will definitely make that person’s day.

How great would it be if you could just move right through the toll booth? Get your spare change out and pay the toll for the car behind you...both of you will start your day off right!

Erica and I are involved with a Women’s Club and in honor of Pay It Forward Day our club is dropping off a meal to some of our retired neighbors who live alone. Just think how good you would feel if you didn’t have to make dinner for a night or two!

Going to the grocery store today? Help someone put their bags in their car…it may take you a couple of extra minutes but the reward is totally worth it.

Buy a Simply Happy Giving Tee or Happy Wraps + Giving Ties. Your donation will go towards a great cause, Susan G. Komen 3Day, which in turn helps fund breast cancer research.

These acts of kindness may be small but the reward is GREAT. Make the best out of today, get out there and Pay It Forward and don't forget to tell those you help to Pay it Forward TOO...it just might come back FULL CIRCLE!

XOXO

Angela & Erica

We always have time for a little DIY!

4/29/2015

The last few weeks have been super busy for both Angela & I. Between kids activities, Hope for a Cure Benefit, Women’s Club (we are both co-presidents), & PTO responsibilities, add in entertaining our 7 kids between the both of us… lets just say, our days are jam packed. BUT we somehow always make time to DIY! What can we say, it’s in our blood.

Happy Wrap + Giving Ties

After researching creative ways to package our handmade Happy Wraps + Giving Ties, we came across mini mason jars….ADORABLE!! I kept thinking of all the uses and DIY projects for mason jars. This week is my son’s First Holy Communion and after making quick centerpieces with the mason jars, I thought, this would be a great DIY blog to share!

Mason Jar Centerpieces

First up, centerpieces. As I did with my son’s communion, mason jars make a simple but cute centerpiece or vase. I simply added the burlap with double sided tape, the ribbon and ta-da! I have my centerpieces. I am adding baby’s breathe to create a pure, fresh look while saving money on expensive centerpieces and flowers at the same time. I am looking forward to seeing it all come together this weekend.

The Belle's Jar

Speaking of fresh, a delicious salad is also another way to use a mason jar. Just layer in your ingredients and the tight seal will keep the your salad fresh until you are ready to eat. The Belle’s Jar has the most delicious salads and the best part is she uses all organic products to create each salad. My favorite is the Black Bean and Corn Salad…AMAZING!!! Check out The Belle’s Jar on FB to view all of her delicious creations. And if you are in South Jersey, stop by Casciano’s Coffee Bar in Hammonton to grab your choice of The Belle’s Jar Salads. Better yet, If you want to learn to make one yourself, grab a spot in one of her cooking classes at Kitchen 19. Check the website for their schedule.

Another great use for mason jars is creating a simple and quick herb garden. This is something I am determined to do this spring with the help of Pinterest (my favorite spot to score DIY projects). Two great sites that I will be working from are topinspired.com and camillestyles.com. I feel this is a great way to ease my way into gardening without being overwhelmed. I admit, I do not have a green thumb but something I would really love to learn.

There are so many more ways to use mason jars. Just check out our board on Pinterest and you can check out the ones listed above and more! I know we will be using mason jars in our display and possibly continue to add them into our handmade Giving products, just as we did with our Happy Wrap + Giving Ties. As always, we will Happily share our new additions with you!

Xoxo
Erica & Angela

What Can you Do to Celebrate Earth Day?

4/22/2015

Today is Earth Day...time to get out and Do Something to help the environment...time to become more Eco Friendly. But what does eco friendly mean? It’s simple...you can become eco friendly just by making a conscience effort to reduce harm to the environment.

I’m sure you have all heard of the 3 R’s...Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. These are 3 big factors that can help our planet...Reducing the amount of waste you produce (Do you really need half a roll of paper towels to clean up a spill?), Reusing materials in a different way (And I’m not just talking bird feeders out of orange juice containers...there are plenty of things around your house that can be repurposed...check out these cute wine bottle lights), and Recycling materials that can be used again.

Photo: Wendell T. Webber www.thisoldhouse.com

Conserving water and electricity help the environment in many ways. OK...so maybe you already turn the water off while brushing your teeth but fixing leaky faucets or adjusting the water level on your washer are other quick fixes. Maybe you turn off the lights when you leave a room but how about taking it a step further...make sure you have good insulation to keep the heat/air down or purchase energy efficient appliances or gadgets to lower your daily energy consumption. Not only will you be helping the environment but your wallet will thank you too!

Spring is at our door and many of us are planting beautiful flowers in our gardens but how about a tree. Not only are trees a source of oxygen, they are homes to wildlife, many of which are losing their homes daily. How about a fig tree...figs are so good and having the fruit is an added benefit for you!

How many places do you drive to that you can easily walk? Are a group of you going to the same place...then it’s a no brainer...take one car. It’s so simple….you may need to add 15 extra minutes for walking but the added exercise is definitely worth it!

Look out for recycled products. Whether you're buying clothing, food, thing for your home look for the recylable label and try using a reusable bag when out shopping rather than a plastic bag that would later be thrown away.

It is important to become more aware of how we can help our Earth, this is our Home. We may not be perfect but Simply Happy Brand is working to become increasingly more Eco Friendly. Our Tees are made using sustainable materials and processes like low impact dyes, washes that use reclaimed water, organic cotton, recycled polyester, biodegradable fabric softeners and natural enzymes for finishing. Those of you who received their Happy Mail may have noticed that we use mostly recyclable paper and shipping products. We know these little “fixes” have helped make a difference in our environment..so we CHALLENGE YOU to do something small today. Shop Recyclable, walk somewhere you would normally drive, or conserve the energy you use...when we all do something little it turns into something BIG!

XOXO
Angela & Erica

When all else fails, Accessorize!

4/17/2015

Today my day started off rough! Four kids to get ready in the morning, daddy out of town, rainy outside (so of course it kinda dampens the mood) and 2 kids had events at school which I wanted to be at, which meant...I had to look presentable.

What I have learned over the years is to "accessorize". Fancy clothes are nice for special occasions, but after realizing that the chances of it getting dirty with 4 boys was almost inevitable, I decided that TJ Maxx and Target where my best locations to score clothing. And the beauty of selling jewelry with my other business is, I am my best customer. So with both simple clothing and tons of bling, I dress up my look.

Today, like I mentioned above, was a rainy morning, so I put my leggings on(my staple) , Simply Happy tank, and blinged up the rest. I wore my layered thin necklaces, stud earrings and added my arm candy! Bracelets whether; thin, thick, leather wrap or dangles, the more the better! I added my camo green hat, cute spring jacket, target aviator sunglass and cropped boots to complete my look. I wouldn't say I was ready for the runway, but I was definitely ready and felt confident to visit my kids at their school with out people thinking I just rolled out of bed.

Some days may start off rough but with some simple accessorizing, you can change from feeling "thrown together" to "put together". Right now, the sun is beginning to shine and it is FRIDAY!! I am definitely in a better mood and it helps when I add a little bling on and have my boys tell me, "Mommy, you look pretty." That is all the confirmation I need!

xoxo
Erica & Angela

Origami Owl Leather Wrap Bracelets, Core Dangle Bracelet, Necklaces, Earrings (www.ericaconway.origamiowl.com) Chanel nail polish Alex and Ani bracelet Target Aviator Sunglasses

Show Your Support

4/15/2015

In 2014, 232,030 cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. alone. That means about 1 in 8 women have breast cancer. Chances are you know someone who has been diagnosed. Having breast cancer is not a death sentence and there are many treatments, commonly chemotherapy, to help treat breast cancer. Chemo can be a daunting treatment with many side effects. The best thing you can do for your loved one is be supportive. A Chemo Survival Kit is the perfect way to show your support! Here’s what you need:

1. A Reusable Carry Bag. This is an easy place to store all items for your chemo kit and easily transported to and from appointments.

2. Canker Sore Gel. Canker sores are an irritating side effect, there are many gels on the market to treat these sores.

3. Hypoallergenic Body Lotion. Dry skin can occur after treatments so a good lotion is needed. Stay away from perfumed lotions, they can irritate the skin. Arbonne Body Gelee has a cooling sensation as well.

4. Lip Balm. Skin isn’t the only thing that can be dry, lips can get n chapped as well.

5. Water Bottle. It is important for patients to stay hydrated before and after the treatment, a cute water bottle will assure they always have a drink near by.

6. Peppermint Candles or Oil. Aside from smelling amazing, peppermint is soothing and can help comfort nausea which can occur after treatment...you could also use peppermint essential oil. I like Aromappeal Organic Peppermint Oil.

7. Large mug. A mug for soup or tea after treatment, especially ginger tea...it fights nausea.

7. Popsicles. Dry mouth often occurs during treatment, a refreshing popsicle could do just the trick….I love Strawberry Dole Pops!

8. Robe, Shawl or Small Blanket. Patients can feel exposed (or chilly) while getting treatment. Something that can be draped over shoulder can help keep warm and cover up. I love this shawl...and it looks cute too!

9. Head Scarf or Hat. Some patients will go through hair loss a head scarf or hat can be their best accessory.

10. Book, Magazine or Cards. Chances are patients will be sitting for a while during treatment...what does your friend or family member like to do? Any one of these things can help pass the time.

11. Motivation. There are times when patients are going to feel a little down and sick. Something motivational can be just the thing to jump start positivity. Try a Not an Option Tank!

Whatever you decide to put in your Chemo Kit your friend or family member will love and appreciate it because they know you are there to support them!

XOXO

Angela & Erica

We ❤️ Shoes

4/10/2015

Your outfit is picked, your hair and makeup are done, now it’s time to choose your shoes...I’m gonna need another 20 minutes. Fortunately, I have two little helpers to help me decide, unfortunately they never agree….make that 25 minutes.

We’ve got you covered. Choose any of these styles to assure you put a Fashion Foot Forward this spring:

1. Slip-on Mule. An oldy but a goody, dig deep into your closet, you know you have a pair. These are an easy comfortable choice for any girl on the go.

Photo: Fashion Me Now

2. Gladiators. Yes, they’re back again. Whether they are high or low, they’re perfect with skirts or shorts this spring.

Photo: IMAXTREE

3. Ankle Strap. One of my favorites is an ankle strap, it brings a dainty feel to any outfit. We are in LOVE with these!

Photo: IMAXTREE/Armando Grillo

4. Woven Look. To add dimension to your shoe try a woven style, there are so many styles to choose from.

Photo: IMAXTREE/Armando Grillo

Ready to go...that was easy!

XOXO

Angela & Erica

Breast Cancer is in Our Lives

4/9/2015

Breast Cancer is something that has been apart of my life since I was a young child. At the age 49, my grandmother (who as the stories go I was more attached to then my mother, the reason I was named Angela and who my oldest was named after) was diagnosed with breast cancer, she died 10 years later at the age 59 when the cancer had traveled from her breast to her bones and finally her brain. Some of my earliest memories are watching my mom and two aunts taking my grandmother to appointments, helping her after surgeries, making sure she got all her medications and later after the breast cancer had traveled to her bones, wheeling her from place to place in her wheelchair (on top of watching a total of 5 young and sometimes rambunctious children). We were together ALL the time, we literally had 4 mothers each, but thinking back I believe that togetherness was strength. At the time I didn’t really understand how trying it must have been for my grandmother to always have a smile. My mom and aunts never seemed anything but happy. They were truly happy to be with each other, helping each other in such a way, that we as kids never saw anything out of the ordinary, we never saw the struggles and pain that I know Breast Cancer patients are faced with every day. I know my grandmother was so strong as many women and men with breast cancer are and have to be.

My grandmother was not the only woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer in my family, almost every women has been touched some way with this illness, throughout my life. Later when I was older my Aunt, one of the closest people in my life, was diagnosed with breast cancer also at age 49 and passed away 2 years ago at 59. I remember my mom, sister and I getting on a plane just to see her when she told us she was diagnosed and probably annoying her with our millions of questions after every appointment. Although I now understood the terms and meanings that floated around, I still did not see the struggle in my Aunt. She was a fighter to the very last breath. From my experience, breast cancer patients are some of the most strongest people I’ve met.

My Aunt was the oldest of my mom and her sisters and the coincidence of my grandmother and other women in the family all being diagnosed right at the same age caused some concern. Although we did not have the information from other family members we did have my Aunt’s genetic background which allowed for my mother, other aunt, my sister and myself to become proactive with our health and look into are genetic and hereditary factors. These types of testing are advances that help many patients with early detection. It was made very clear to us what our chances were of developing breast cancer because of genetic factors and it is because of this knowledge we were able to take preventative precautions with our health and I believe why my mother and other aunt are still here today.

I look at my 2 beautiful daughters and know what illness I may be passing on to them. Then I think about all the advances that are made on a daily basis. I think about the millions of people supporting research and early detection of breast cancer, organizations like Susan G. Komen who have truly made a difference in the fight against breast cancer. I know the advances already made that allow us to take preventative measures and detect this illness early on. We chose Susan G. Komen 3Day for this reason. Breast Cancer has a face, its your grandmother, mother, aunt, sister, friend neighbor; chances are you know someone who has or will be diagnosed with breast cancer. But remember EVERY action to support breast cancer, big or small, is a step toward a CURE and a CHANGE.

XOXO
Erica & Angela

Support Team Bosom Broads of Broadmoor 3Day Team with your purchase!

Happiness is Found in the Simple Things

4/8/2015

How many times have we told ourselves we just want to be "happy"? Will more money make us happy? Will getting our kids everything they want or getting a new job make us happy? Sometimes it may seem those things would make everything better but have you actually stopped yourself and embraced a moment when you truly felt "happy"?

After brainstorming on brand ideas and focusing on happiness, I personally started to notice more moments in my personal life where I felt truly 'happy'. It was those simple moments, like sitting at the dinner table and looking around at my 4 crazy boys and jokester husband and thinking, 'This is my amazing family'. Or seeing my one year old waddle around the house following his big brothers, laughing and having the time of his life. It is then, that I realized, these are the moments that brought me the most happiness.

I definitely have my days when life seems crazy, unorganized and stressful but when I stop to think of all my blessings, I start to appreciate the small things; reading a book with my boys before bed, hearing my son say 'Mama', enjoying a glass of wine with a friend while catching up on our life, jamming in the minivan with the boys to Flo Rida, making it to Church on time after running around the house like a crazy women trying to get everyone ready and convincing (or some may call it bribing) my son that wearing shorts in the winter to church is not acceptable(that truly is an accomplishment)...I could go on forever and I know these are just a couple of the simple moments that I will always cherish and look back on. Creating Simply Happy has made me realize what is important and not only am I able to identify happiness in the present, but I am able to look back and remember happy moments in the past.

Yesterday Angela posted a "simply happy moment' picture of her kids on the beach collecting sea shells this past weekend. It is such a simple moment, but it is one that the kids will always remember and look forward to every time they come to the beach. Angela and I both know there will be many more 'simply happy moments' to come and we look forward to sharing them. We would also love for you to share your 'simply happy moments'. Share them by posting on our Instagram, Facebook and/or Twitter with the hashtag #simplyhappymoments. Join us in taking the time to stop, enjoy the small things and to Simply be Happy!

xoxo
Erica & Angela

Same Outfit 5 Ways!

4/3/2015

Being busy moms, we spend most of our time transporting our kids to school, sports, parties or wherever else they take us. It leaves us little time for shopping so when we find a piece we like, we have to think of inventive ways to wear it over and over again. There are so many ways to bring life to a tee and make it look different every time.

High Waisted Tuck. Perfect for a polished look, just smooth the tee down and tuck into your favorite jean, pant or skirt.
Side Knot. Tie your tee in a knot on one side to show a little skin.

3. Let It Flow. For an effortless and casual style, let your tee hang loose.

4. Relaxed Tuck. Tuck the front of your tee in your bottoms for a relaxed rocker style.

5. Back Knot. Tying a knot in the back of your tee, makes it look more fitted with an easygoing feel.

It’s easy to turn casual and comfortable into to trendy and wearable with these 5 adjustments. And with a Simply Happy Brand tank you can look your and feel your best knowing you made a difference, there’s nothing better than that feeling!

XOXO

Angela & Erica

Simply Creative

4/2/2015

Angela and I have always had a knack for being crafty and creative. If you check out our home craft supply, we could honestly whip up anything from a cute class gift or school project to building our booth display by hand. We love creating things so when we brainstormed on developing Simply Happy Brand, we knew from the designs to the packaging, we wanted them to have the organic, natural and handmade feel.

We are constantly coming up with designs. We write them down, draw them up, take pictures, discuss them and we work closely with my sister to creatively translate them to be transferred on apparel. My super talented sister Ashley, has always been creative as well. Since I can remember, she would draw and make things so it didn’t surprise me when she decided to take her talents and passion into her career as a graphic designer. Together we collaborate to develop each design. There are so many designs we have and we CANNOT wait for them all to come to life in our apparel. (Just wait and see!)

When we finally decided to take the leap and have our designs printed, it took many, many, MANY attempts to create the perfect coral color that we wanted for our brand. Many paint mixes where wasted because it wasn’t just right but we were not going to take a chance on our first batch of Simply Happy designs.

Once we came up with the perfect coral color, each shirt had to be hand pressed for printing. Our shirts are delicate in fabric and we wanted to keep with the handmade feel. After many hours of each shirt being hand pressed and drying, our first batch of Simply Happy Brand tanks were READY!!!

When we looked at our final, finished product we were beyond excited!! Words are hard to describe when you finally see something tangible in your hand that you have working on and dreaming (literally, we would dream about simply happy) for so long. Our hard work was literally laying on the dining room table and we were about to start something that was so meaningful to us.

Not only did we create a cute tank but our mission is to create happiness; to have the people who wear it convey a positive emotion and know that they feel good while helping a specific cause with our feature charity donation. We know this is just the beginning of Simply Happy and we look forward to many more creative designs and helping important charities all at the same time.

Xoxo

Angela & Erica

*Is there a non-profit close to your heart? Contact us at simplyhappybrand@gmail.com and we will be happy to send you our charity application to be considered to partner up and be our Feature Charity.

About Us!

Erica Conway is a wife, mother of 4 active boys, Co-Founder of Simply Happy Brand & very active in many community non-profits.

Angela Wilbert is a wife, mother of 3 beautiful children, two girls and one boy, Co-Founder of Simply Happy Brand and very involved in leadership roles in children's activities.

Archives

January 2018
April 2017
December 2016
October 2016
September 2016
January 2016
December 2015
October 2015
July 2015
June 2015
May 2015
April 2015
March 2015

Copyright ©2015-2018 Simply Happy Brand, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Every Giving Tee gives back to a Charity in need!