I can’t help but smile when I think back on this outfit (that was shot pre-winter) because it’s what I wore the night that we got engaged. This adorable little black dress had just arrived that week and in the whirlwind that was the day that we got engaged I was whisked home for dinner with our family and closest friends to celebrate. I threw it on with these platform heels and voila, I was ready for our special celebration!

This time of year there are tons of special occasions related to the holidays, and my birthday is a week after Christmas. I love having a dress or two on hand that I can pull out for a special dinner and know that I’ll re-wear it again several times.

We usually go to dinner for my birthday before New Year’s because it’s a slower week for both of us with work. Last year we went to Sugarfish (one of my favorites in the city) and I’m excited to see where we celebrate this year. It could be at home eating chinese and I’d be a happy girl!

I love that those few days between Christmas and New Year’s are a chance to wind down– they’re slower, quieter, and a wonderful chance to reflect on the blessings of the year. While this year started off on a more somber note, it has been one of the most exciting and wild years to date. I feel incredibly grateful in so many aspects of life and am especially thankful to be heading home to spend time with my family tomorrow, and hopefully lock down our wedding venue! :)

Before I look forward to 2018 I’ll be sharing some of the best memories of this year and some more personal thoughts I’ve yet to have time to share, so stay tuned!

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Photos by Bekka Palmer