Sunday, December 24, 2017

10 Gifts That Give Back

Hello!  I hope everyone is having a wonderful week.  Have you finished your holiday shopping yet?  It's not too late.  Also, I've been thinking a lot about gratitude lately. I can't help but recognize how blessed I am to live the life I lead today.  I haven't experienced hunger this week, I have clean water to drink, and I have an amazing family.  I'm extremely grateful.  However, it's also for these reasons that I feel compelled to give back when I can.  I hope that you will consider shopping from this list this year.



10 Gifts That Give Back 


1. AUrate New York


AUrate New York



This year give the gift of Literacy.  This company makes beautiful modern yellow, white, and rose gold jewelry in New York.  They employ a "Book for Your Look" philosophy when it comes to giving back.  For every piece of jewelry that is purchased, they donate a book to an economically underprivileged child.  It's the ultimate gift that keeps on giving and that's always a good investment. 

2. The Giving Keys


The Giving Keys


This year give the gift of Empowerment.  This company is based in Los Angeles and employs those transitioning out of homelessness in Los Angeles to make their keys.  Did you know that Los Angeles is one of the cities with the largest population of homeless individuals in the United States? You can purchase holiday gift sets with a key and candle for your loved ones here.  If you purchase one for yourself, don't forget to pay it forward.

3. Sweet Cavanagh


Sweet Cavanagh jewelry


This year give the gift of Recovery.  You can purchase gorgeous jewelry designed and handmade in London by women recovering from eating disorders and addictions.  All profits go to Free Me, a registered charity that provides free therapy, group support, career training, and access to a registered dietitian.  These proceeds can help give these women access to resources they desperately need, but may not be able to afford.

4. Bloom and Give


Bloom and Give


This year give the gift of Education.  This company donates 50% of the profits from handmade scarves and bags to support education for girls in India.  This model is based on the premise that education is the most effective way to fight poverty and gender inequality for generations to come.

5. One Hope Wine




This year help Support Our Troops. The Support Our Troops Gift Box contains One Hope Zinfandel, and a special Italian silk David Fin tie with camouflage lining.  With every six gift boxes purchased you will be providing a veteran a chance to continue serving through disaster relief.  Each tie helps a veteran get a job through the Hiring Our Heroes initiative.  It's a great gift for an awesome boss or colleague.

6. Bird and Stone


Bird and Stone

This year give the gift of  Inspiring Women to become Independent Entrepreneurs.  This company helps teach single and widowed women in Kenya about business, agriculture, and accounting to help lift themselves out of poverty and make a living though starting their own businesses.  This dainty jewelry is so pretty, you'll want to give it to all the special people in your circle.

7. Bombas Socks


Bombas Socks



This year give the gift of Warm and Comfortable Feet with Socks built with Innovative Technology.  Did you know that socks are the most requested item in homeless shelters? This company donates one pair of their socks for every pair sold to a homeless person in need.  You can never have too many socks, especially unique ones like these.

8. SoapBox Soaps


SoapBox Soaps


This year give the gift of Hope, Soap, and Clean Water.  Soap=Hope  By purchasing one bar of soap, this swell little gift will give clean water to someone in need and will help teach individuals about hygienic practices through hand washing to help save lives.  We can always use a little more soap our lives.

9. Warby Parker


Warby Parker sunglasses


This year, give the gift of  Seeing Better.  Warby Parker gives one pair of glasses to a person in need for every pair that is sold.  They offer prescription, reading, and sunglasses.  What could be better than helping someone else see the world better!

10. Alex and Ani- Charity By Design Collection



Alex and Ani bracelet

This year give the gift of Empowerment, Love, and Community.  Alex and Ani donates 20% of each bangle purchased to various organizations during the holiday season.  With so many beautiful bangles and charms to choose from, you will have a hard time deciding on just one.


I hope you enjoyed this post.  What are you grateful for this year?












Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Unique Handmade Vintage and Victorian Ornaments By Sparkle Deluxe

Hello and happy Wednesday to you:)  It's that time of year again when many of us are looking forward to our annual Christmas tradition of adding to our unique ornament collection.  To this day, I still remember the first ornament I was given when I was a child, how about you?  Several years ago, I remember starting off my Christopher Radko collection, but every year someone would break one. Now, I use generic ornaments, but I still have a great appreciation for unique handmade pieces like the ornaments I'm showing you today.  

My friend Laurie Horner is the artist behind the Etsy shop Sparkle Deluxe This is one place where you'll find truly unique, quality, handmade ornaments that can be found nowhere else!  She  even creates customized designs for her clients.  One day we met up for lunch and I was able to see these lovely ornaments up close.  I can tell you that each piece is made with immaculate attention to detail.  Her cup of creativity is overflowing as seen in these unique vintage and Victorian ornaments.  

Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern (Blue) Lan3 Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Etsy

Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern


Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern (Blue) Lan3 Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Etsy

Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern


Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern (Blue) Lan3 Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Etsy

Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern


Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern (Blue) Lan3 Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Etsy

Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern


Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern (Blue) Lan3 Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Etsy

Magical Enchanted Forest Lantern


Victorian ornaments, Vintage Christmas Ornament, Victorian Angel Ornament, Handmade Christmas Ornament, Unique Ornaments, Hot air balloon Sparkle Deluxe Laurie Horner

Vintage Victorian Hot Air Balloon Ornament


Victorian ornaments, Vintage Christmas Ornament, Victorian Angel Ornament, Handmade Christmas Ornament, Unique Ornaments, Hot air balloon Sparkle Deluxe Laurie Horner

Vintage Victorian Hot Air Balloon Ornament


Mercury Glass Christmas Ornament, Handmade Christmas Ornament, Victorian Style Angel, Hot Air Balloon Ornament,Vintage Christmas Ornament Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe
Mercury Glass Vintage Victorian Christmas Ornament

Handmade Victorian Christmas Tree Ornaments, Victorian Angel Ornaments, Victorian Bell Ornaments,One-of-a-kind Christmas, Glass ornament Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe

Victorian Christmas Angel Tree Bell Ornaments


Mercury Glass Christmas Ornament, Handmade Christmas Ornament, Victorian Style Angel, Hot Air Balloon Ornament,Vintage Christmas Ornament Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe
Mercury Glass Vintage Victorian Christmas Ornament

Sparkle Deluxe Laurie Horner Unique Christmas Gift, One of a kind Christmas Ornament, Victorian Angel Hot Air Balloon Ornament, Victorian Decor, Glass ornaments

Victorian Rose Angel Hot Air Balloon Ornament


Sparkle Deluxe Laurie Horner Unique Christmas Gift, One of a kind Christmas Ornament, Victorian Angel Hot Air Balloon Ornament, Victorian Decor, Glass ornaments

Victorian Rose Angel Hot Air Balloon Ornament


Birthday lamb, Birthday sheep, Baby Gift, Baby Decor, Lamb decor, baby shower lamb, nursery lamb, first birthday, baby gift, newborn gift Sparkle Deluxe Laurie Horner
Lamb Ornament 



Sparkle Deluxe Laurie Horner Birthday lamb, Birthday sheep, Baby Gift, Baby Decor, Lamb decor, baby shower lamb, nursery lamb, first birthday, baby gift, newborn gift
Lamb Ornament 

Handmade Christmas Tree Ornament, Santa in Airplane, Vintage Style Christmas Ornament, Santa Claus Airplane Ornament, One of a kind ornament Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe
Santa Claus Airplane Ornament

Handmade Christmas Tree Ornament, Santa in Airplane, Vintage Style Christmas Ornament, Santa Claus Airplane Ornament, One of a kind ornament Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe
Santa Claus Airplane Ornament

Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Stunning Boxed Set Mercury Glass Christmas Ornaments Santas in Hot Air Balloons
Vintage Santa Ornaments in Hot Air Balloons

Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Stunning Boxed Set Mercury Glass Christmas Ornaments Santas in Hot Air Balloons
Vintage Santa Ornaments in Hot Air Balloons

Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Stunning Boxed Set Mercury Glass Christmas Ornaments Santas in Hot Air Balloons
Vintage Santa Ornaments in Hot Air Balloons

Laurie Horner Sparkle Deluxe Stunning Boxed Set Mercury Glass Christmas Ornaments Santas in Hot Air Balloons
Vintage Santa Ornaments in Hot Air Balloons

I hope you enjoyed these wonderful ornaments and I want to wish you a fantastic holiday season!   

If you'd like to see more handmade ornaments by Laurie, check out her Etsy shop here: Sparkle Deluxe

What type of ornaments do you have hanging on your tree?

What is your favorite piece?  

*This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own and I was not paid for a positive review.




Sunday, December 10, 2017

My Favorite Product From SkinCeuticals

Joanna Joy SkinCeuticals skin care products Runaway The Label Banana Republic faux emerald green suede vest dress A Stylish Love Story fashion blog fashion blogger California fashion blogger style Ralph Lauren rhinestone and satin heels highly embellished jewelry petite blogger


Hair: Drybar
Makeup: Nora Frislie

Hello!  How was your weekend?  I hope you are having a fantastic week:)

Recently, I attended a SkinCeuticals event in Newport Beach, California and I wore one of my new favorite emerald green faux suede vest dresses from Runaway The Label.  I love this dress because you can dress it up or down if you'd like, and it's pretty versatile as a dress or a vest over trousers.  My black satin and rhinestone sparkly heels are from Ralph Lauren.  These heels were not only stunning, but surprising comfortable as well.  They were great heels to mingle in for a few hours at this event.  This highly embellished Natasha headband is from Saks Fifth Avenue, and my 1920's style fringe necklace is from a small boutique called Ribbons in Redondo Beach. Ribbons is a lovely little boutique to shop at if you'd like to support a small business during the holiday season.  The bracelet I'm wearing is from Banana Republic and I believe I remember picking it up around this time a few years ago.  I really enjoyed talking with the SkinCeuticals representative there because she was very friendly and knowledgeable about the products and how they work.


SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum Joanna Joy A Stylish Love Story lifestyle blog fashion blogger California fashion blogger
Why is this one of my favorite products?  CE Ferulic serum from SkinCeuticals is one of my favorite skin care products because I can instantly see the difference in my skin immediately after I use it.  It brightens your skin after you put it on.  It also neutralizes free radicals and improves signs of photodamage.  This is definitely one product I can't live without.

What is your favorite skin care serum? Have you ever tried the CE Ferulic serum from SkinCeuticals?

I'd love to hear your responses in the comments below...


*This is not a sponsored post and all opinions are my own.  I was not paid for a positive review.



Sunday, December 3, 2017

Finance and Fall Fashion Interview with Gillian Giorgio

Hello! Today, I want to introduce you to my financially savvy friend Gillian Giorgio.  We attended an event a while back and instantly connected.  She’s the woman I go to when I want to get an opinion on some of my future purchases like handsome handbags, wonderful winter coats, and beautiful boots.  This is why becoming financially literate is so important.  When purchasing these types of items for fall, I prefer to look at things from an investment approach. 



Hi Gillian! Thank you for being a guest on the blog today to speak with me about finance and fashion.

It’s a pleasure to be here with you Joanna! I am grateful to be able to share some time with your fashion forward and loyal readers.

Why is financial literacy an important topic in regards to making purchases?

It is important to make purchases in a smart way with a long-term view of how you will be able to utilize these items now and in the future.  Therefore, thinking about how to wisely use your money will make a difference for you.  You may even find that some vintage or classic pieces could gain value if you take care of them well.  As you exchange your money for pieces that you want to make a statement, the choices you make can affect your financial bottom line now as well as later. 

Photo By: Franz Swantko
How can your understanding of financial literacy affect your future?

That’s a great question!  When you are more financially literate, you understand the principles of saving and how debt is so expensive.  It’s better to save up for what you really want, instead of charging on your credit cards and dealing with lots of interest.  Also, when saving money, you want to look at the interest you are earning, so you can grow more money.  I always joke about how I want to have as many ‘piles’ (of money) as possible in different places.  Financial literacy helps you know where the best places are for you.

Photo By: Franz Swantko
If I wanted to invest in a pricey item for fall, what would you suggest I look for when making a purchase like this?

The items you choose will always be a personal decision, but I can give you some idea of a strategy.  There are certain things each person will want to spend more on and some they are willing to take a less expensive alternative.  It’s important for you to decide which pieces you want high quality and which you can do without; therefore, you can put your money to work for you a little better in line with your fashion philosophy. 

Photo By: Joanna Joy

How would you suggest I budget and prepare for an investment purchase?

Of course, each person’s budget will be different and it’s tough to give an answer appropriate for everyone.  Start by taking an objective look at what you make, what you have saved and the pieces that are absolute ‘must haves.’  Review them and ask yourself, ‘will this purchase I make now make a difference for me in 6 months to 1 year?’ or ‘Is this an item I must have immediately, or can it wait?’ Occasionally, you may find a something that may never come again; those are times when you have to weigh out the pros and cons.

Photo By: Franz Swantko

When you teach your daughters about financial literacy in relation to making purchases, what advice are you going to give them?

My daughters are two of the most amazing little girls who make me so grateful and remind me to have fun in life.  My mindset about money will shape the way they look at it, so I make it a point to discuss basic ideas openly with them (even though they are 3 and 6 years old!).  A good rule of thumb that I use when I’m speaking to older kids and some adults is to separate your income into 5 different buckets: Give (charity/tithing), Wealth (long-term saving for the future), Education (something for learning), Want (fashion items, games, toys), and FUN (Blow it on Whatever You Want!).  These sound like simple ideas, but when we utilize these ideas and an emergency comes up (which they always do), and we must wipe out all our savings, at least we know how to start again. 

Thank You Gillian!  This was such a helpful and informative post.  Thank you for sharing this with me and my readers. 

Please feel free to follow Gillian Giorgio’s show GGInspire on:

Facebook: Gillian Giorgio
Instagram: gginspire
LinkedIn: Gillian Giorgio

Thursday, November 23, 2017

Happy Thanksgiving!

Ralphs roses fall flowers floral A Stylish Love Story blog
Beautiful Roses from Ralphs Supermarket

Happy Thanksgiving to you!  Hope you are enjoying some delicious food today.  I am off to enjoy a good meal with my family.  We always have a potluck with all types of dishes like sushi rolls, tamales, veggie stew, guacamole and chips, fried chicken, macaroni salad, pickled cucumbers, pumpkin pie, green bean casserole, marshmallow sweet potatoes, turkey, ham, apple cider, and fried rice.

How about you? What is your favorite dish? My favorite dish is definitely dessert.  I love pumpkin pie:)

Monday, November 20, 2017

In Memory of Franz

A couple of weeks ago, my photographer suddenly passed away.  His name was Franz Swantko, and he had been taking photos for my blog A Stylish Love Story over the past two years.  I was heartbroken to hear this news. At only 28 years old, he had built countless friendships, was embraced by the community, and had created some of the most captivating photographs on Instagram.  What I remember most about Franz was his smile. His upbeat demeanor was infectious and was always happy to see me when he greeted me for our photo sessions. He had the kind of personality that could light up an entire restaurant.  Franz worked at a local restaurant called Bake-N-Broil for many years, and I remember we went there one day to have lunch in between one of our photo shoots.  We always had awesome lunches together on those days.  Well, I remember one day we went to eat lunch there and he insisted that he personally make me "the best" cappuccino.  We ordered the blueberry lemon pancakes with raspberry sauce and he quickly ran over to whip up "the best" cappuccino for me.  It really was "the best".  Franz was always doing sweet things like that, not just for me, but for all of his friends.  
"The best" cappuccino made by Franz :) Photo By: Joanna Joy 


 He was thoughtful, he was kind, and he took those little extra shots just to make me happy, like this one of my little cat....
Photo By: Franz Swantko

Photo By: Franz Swantko

Photo By: Franz Swantko


Photo By: Franz Swantko

The next time I see a gorgeous sunset or beautiful clouds in the sky, I will think of Franz and how instead of photographing it from below, how he is somewhere up there helping to create it.  
Photo By: Joanna Joy



Franz was such a talented artist and friend.  I will miss him immensely.

You can see more of his work on Instagram @dr.fresh


"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -Maya Angelou




Sunday, October 29, 2017

Inspired by Carmen Sandiego

vintage black hat Honey Punch gold and black sheer flare pants red Talbots corduroy blazer black and gold beaded bag red Gucci suede platforms Carmen Sandiego costume Joanna Joy A Stylish Love Story blog petite blogger California style blogger


Honey Punch gold and black sheer flare pants red Talbots corduroy blazer black and gold beaded bag Carmen Sandiego costume Joanna Joy A Stylish Love Story style blog petite fashion blogger California style blogger


vintage black hat Honey Punch gold and black sheer flare pants red Talbots corduroy blazer black and gold beaded bag red Gucci suede platforms Carmen Sandiego costume Joanna Joy A Stylish Love Story blog petite blogger California style blogger




vintage black hat Honey Punch gold and black sheer flare pants red Talbots corduroy blazer black and gold beaded bag red Gucci suede platforms Carmen Sandiego costume Joanna Joy A Stylish Love Story blog petite blogger California style blogger


Honey Punch gold and black sheer flare pants red Talbots corduroy blazer black and gold beaded bag Carmen Sandiego costume Joanna Joy A Stylish Love Story style blog petite fashion blogger California style blogger


vintage black hat Honey Punch gold and black sheer flare pants red Talbots corduroy blazer black and gold beaded bag red Gucci suede platforms Carmen Sandiego costume Joanna Joy A Stylish Love Story blog petite blogger California style blogger

Photography: Franz Swantko
Makeup: Liz Jones
Belt: Vintage
Pants: Honey Punch
Bag: Vintage
Shoes: Gucci
Blazer: Talbots
Hat: Retro Reload
Earrings: Retro Reload


Hello! I hope everyone had a fun weekend. Since we are nearing Halloween, I thought it would be fun to do a look inspired by the character Carmen Sandiego.  What do you think?  Who or what are you going to be for Halloween?


Please follow me on Instagram @astylishlovestory

Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Good Credit Is Always In Style


Joanna Joy style blogger fashion blogger petite blogger blue pencil skirt blue heels orange coat

Hello!  Today, I wanted to talk about a subject that goes hand in hand with daily life and shopping…credit.  Recently, credit has been a major topic in the news and is of paramount concern for most people.  Do you remember when you received your first credit card?  Did you make your payments on time or fall into the never ending debt cycle? Or perhaps, did you use the credit that you built to purchase a new car or home?



According to a recent nationwide survey from the U.S. News and World Report, many people don’t understand the benefits of credit card ownership, credit scores, and the consequences of carrying a balance.



Understanding interest rates, finding the right credit card for you, and how credit and credit cards work should be just as important as finding out what’s “on trend” this season.  

gold heels Joanna Joy fashion blogger style blogger


While staying stylish is important, all that shopping can come at a cost if you aren't informed.  Understanding how to make informed decisions as it relates to credit cards can help you later in life. 



I believe that being educated about financial literacy is always in style, which is why I agreed to do a collaboration with the U.S. News & World Report to reveal to you a resource that you can use to educate yourself about these concerns:


Was this blog post helpful? Please leave a comment below.

*This post was a collaboration.  However, all opinions are my own.

Sunday, August 20, 2017

Uncommonly Good Gifts with UncommonGoods

Have you ever wondered and wondered what gift to get someone?  I most certainly have.  Every time a wedding or bridal shower rolls around, you have to figure something out.  And what about those groomsmen right?  Well, wonder no more.  Now, you don't have to feel as though you are just buying merchandise.  You can actually invest in giving a unique and special gift to someone while making a positive impact in someone else's life and on the world.  Cheers to that!

Here's why...recently, I discovered UncommonGoods, a company that features both Uncommonly Good Gifts while also doing a lot of good at the same time.  What's nice about this company is that they work with artists and small manufacturers, and are committed to selling products that are recycled.  Another interesting fact, UncommonGoods is also a founding member of B Corporation which gives companies a B Seal allowing customers to become aware that these companies have met their standards for providing a living wage, lessening the impact on their environment, and giving back to the community.   

So, let the Uncommonly Good Gift Giving begin...

Looking for something classic?  There is no better way to commemorate someone's wedding day than by creating something memorable.  Artist Alexander Doll composes a very customized version of a wedding gift with city skyline wedding art .  He constructs a classic couple against the iconic skyline of each couple's wedding location with the couple's names, wedding date, and venue name included.  He also uses archival paper and ink to preserve this piece of art from this special day.  For an even more personalized version, you can choose the color of  the backdrop, hair color, and skin tone.


City Skyline Wedding ArtUncommonGoods art wedding gift bride wedding couple wedding photo artist handmade city skyline wedding art
UncommonGoods art wedding gift bride wedding couple wedding photo artist handmade city skyline wedding art





Looking for something elegant?  This two tiered serving tray vase is a perfect wedding or bridal shower gift for the couple who likes to entertain around the holidays and other special occasions.  What I like about this gift is that it's both chic and functional.  
Two Tiered Serving Tray Vase

Looking for something really rare and beautiful?  How about selecting this one-of-a-kind rose quartz platter.  It's a gorgeous gift for that special bridesmaid, your friend who likes to host dinner parties, or for yourself for blogging.  This natural Brazilian rose quartz platter with glittering sterling silver edges would serve up a classy presentation of meat and cheese selections next to a complementary set of cocktails.  This stunning flat surface can also give an appealing visual while displaying fine jewelry pieces and also adds a decorative flair to any bedroom or dressing area.  Or, you could buy it as a gift for yourself.  After all, it would be the perfect alternative to photographing a marble stone flat lay when showcasing your jewelry, perfume, beauty, and skincare products for your blog.
Rose Quartz Platter
Looking for something useful?  This wooden beer caddy is the perfect gift for your groomsmen, or those people in your life who love tailgating before a football game, bringing some brews to a backyard barbecue, and makes a great companion to game nights and camping trips in the great outdoors.

Wooden Beer Caddy with Bottle Opener


What do you think of UncommonGoods gifts?

*This is a sponsored post however, all opinions are my own.