Today is a very special day…kristen BROOKE is finally here, YAY!!! I’ve been working on this project since April and I’m thrilled to finally be able to share it with you! kristen BROOKE is a curated collection of accessories that I have sourced and handpicked just for YOU!

As a child, I loved accessorizing with colorful charm necklaces, stackable bracelets and sparkly earrings. I frequently spent time going through my Mom’s jewelry box, trying on her jewelry, while wishing that one day those special pieces would be mine. As my love for accessories grew, so did my collection! For those of you who know me well or who have been following along for a while, you know how much I love elevating my outfits with unique beautiful (and many times BOLD) accessories.

Curating my own collection of accessories was a natural next step for me so that is why I started kristen BROOKE! Each piece is unique and special in its own way and I hope that you love my summer collection just as much as I do. Head to www.shopkristenbrooke to see and shop the entire collection!

I’ll be curating a fall collection very soon so if you have any feedback to share, please do…I truly value your opinions and input! Be sure to sign up to become a VIP so we can stay in touch regarding upcoming collections.

Thank you so very much for all of your love and support with this new endeavor, kristen BROOKE! I appreciate each and every one of you…thank you of being here and being a part of my journey.

As always, thanks so much for stopping by…see you back here real soon!

Photography by Madi Flournoy Henderson

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Owning my own business is a dream…it wasn’t “a dream come true” per say as I honestly never imagined I would be a small business owner, but here I am, proudly operating a small business of my very own.  Getting to the point that I am at today, wasn’t always smooth sailing…there were a lot of rocky waters with plenty of “learn from this” moments.  No one every said owning a small business would be easy but I can say with confidence that when done well, it is soooooo rewarding!

A lot of my confidence as a small business owner has come from truly understanding the financial aspect behind a business.  Did this come easily for me…absolutely not!  I’m a spender, not a saver, BUT with time, I have learned so much and have grown even more along the way.  I’m thankful for Peter as he is a saver and has always had his feet financially planted on the ground…needless to say, he has taught me a lot and has helped me plant my feet as well.  In fact, Peter started his own business at the end of 2016 as well so we are both business owners and have gained so much knowledge together over the last couple of years.

Having the support of a bank that you know and trust, along with their ample resources, is so very important when establishing yourself as a small business owner.  I’m grateful for Regions Bank, their support, and the many tools and resources that have been available to us to ensure that we are operating effectively and efficiently.

Regions Bank operates near 1,500 branches and 1,900 ATMS across the South, Midwest, and Texas.  It is so nice to have Regions Bank right here at home and I’m also excited to share that they will be expanding their presence in the Knoxville, TN market this year as well.  This new branch will be technologically-advanced offering the company’s most modern features to-date.  Some of these features will include Video Teller Machines, a Deposit/Smart ATM, facial recognition and fingerprint technology, and Regions Virtual Concierge to name a few.  You will be able to meet with a Regions Banker who will be available to help with all of your banking needs.  I personally love the new technology and the ability to have one point of contact when banking within the branch.  The way I see it…it is banking made easy and I value that as a small business owner!

Let’s talk about a few of my personal banking tips as a small business owner:

1. Establish a relationship with a local branch representative who will take the time to evaluate and review your small business goals.  Relationships are key and building a high level of trust and respect for your branch representative is so important.  I value the relationship we have with our Regions Banker and feel confident that he truly has our best interest in mind.  He has taken the time to evaluate our goals and make recommendations based on our goals in order to help us achieve them in a smart, financially sound way.
2. Understand the tools and resources available to you.  What I love about Regions Bank is that their resources are straightforward, easy to understand, and even easier to use.  Peter travels a lot for work and I’m on the go quite a bit as well, so having easy access to our accounts is crucial.  We are both tech savvy and I love that their tools have become tech savvy too, which enables us to bank on the go!  You can bank in a branch, online, or through their mobile channels!
3. Save money and plan for retirement.  After working in Corporate America for so many years, I was concerned about not having a matching 401K when I decided to take my small business full time.  After meeting with our Regions Banker, I was thrilled to learn that I had many options available to me to ensure that I could save money each month and plan for our future retirement.  Peter is doing the same thing!  Saving for retirement is one thing I’ve always been good at so I can pat myself on the back and say I’m a “saver” (to some extent).  Understanding how to save, ways to save, and what avenues to utilize will help you best prepare for your future as you run a successful small business.
4. Ensure that you have a money market savings account.  This is soooooo important to ensure Uncle Sam doesn’t come looking for you!  When I set up my business banking account, I set up a business checking account and a business money market savings account.  Any time I deposit revenues, I transfer a certain % of those revenues into my money market savings account in order to pay taxes at the end of every quarter.  Regions Bankers are well versed in understanding the structure and banking needs of small business owners.  Small tips like this truly helped us get our businesses off the ground and heading in the right direction.

These are just a few of my most important tips to share with you if you are considering starting your own small business.  Regions Bank has a wealth of additional information for you as well and their Bankers are professional, courteous, and knowledgeable.  Again, ensure that you work with a bank like Regions Bank when starting a new business venture…I know you will be taken care of just as we have been.

Below are a few links that you can click on to check out more information should you wish to:

Conversations you should have with your banker

Creating a Financial Plan

Personal and Small Business Banking: should your accounts share a bank?

Innovation that delivers

For KBStyled readers who live in or around the Knoxville area, be sure to check out the new branch opening on March 4, 2019 at the below location!  From the sounds of it, this branch is going to be incredible…I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Hardin Valley

2289 Valley Vista Road

Knoxville, TN 37932

As always, thanks so much for stopping by…see you back here real soon!

The post Banking Tips as a Small Business Owner appeared first on KBStyled.

I’ve always loved the smell of a pot of coffee brewing.  Growing up, I could always smell the coffee brewing downstairs and I knew that my Dad was about to start his day…coffee first, always!  It wasn’t until I was quite a bit older that I tried my first cup of coffee.  I’ll never forget the rich taste and warmth of that first cup.  I’m guessing that’s when I learned to appreciate why so many people cannot start their day until they have had a cup, or two, of coffee.

I’m not a daily coffee drinker but over the years, I have learned to appreciate the comfort (and if I’m being honest, the extra pep in my step) that a cup of coffee offers. I’ve tried various brands over the years and my absolute favorite brand is Community(r) Coffee.  Their signature dark roast blend is definitely my go-to when brewing a cup!  Their coffee is bold yet so smooth and I particularly love that it is not bitter!  For me, its like a hug in a cup…so comforting!  When I brew a cup, Addison is always nearby waiting to inhale the scent of the steam as the coffee cools.  I have a feeling she will be a Community(r) Coffee drinker one day as well.

I also love that Community Coffee is family owned and that they take a lot of pride in the products that they offer to their customers.  Their coffee is made from 100% select Arabica coffee beans so you know you are going to be drinking a high quality product.

Have you tried Community Coffee?!  If not, I recommend that you give it a try because I’m certain you will enjoy it as much as I do!

As always, thanks so much for stopping by and I look forward to seeing you back here real soon!

Photography by Madi Flournoy Henderson

The post A Cup of Community Coffee appeared first on KBStyled.

Ladies, let’s talk about bra’s and how to find the right bra for you!  Who else agrees that bra shopping can be challenging, especially if you don’t know your exact measurements?!  I have both hands raised!  There have been many occasions that I’ve shopped for a new bra and end up guessing my size.  Guessing is definitely not the right approach to finding the perfect bra!

I’m no longer guessing my bra size and today I’m sharing how you can easily get your exact measurements from the comfort of home and have a positive bra shopping experience!  Friends…meet Soma’s new SOMAINNOFIT bra!  This is the smartest bra around…it digitally takes your measurements, reports your measurements back to the SOMAINNOFIT app, and then curates a variety of shoppable bras that are a perfect match for you!  Talk about super smart bra fitting technology…WOW!

Getting your measurements is super simple and Soma’s new SOMAINNOFIT technology is the smartest way to ensure bra fitting accuracy.  The bra comes with easy to follow instructions.  Once you have downloaded the free SOMAINNOFIT app and have placed the bra into position and turned it on, you will then follow a simple step by step guide to obtain your measurements.  Once your measurements have populated within the app, you will then be taken to Soma’s website where you can shop bras curated just for you based on your measurements.

I love how easy it was to get my exact bra measurements from the comfort of my own home!  No more tape measures for me…I’ll always use the SOMAINNOFIT should I need to retake my measurements at any point!  I HIGHLY encourage you to try the SOMAINNOFIT!  If you live near a Soma boutique, you can try SOMAINNOFIT for free today!  For those that want to try it on their own at home, Soma is currently taking preorders for the next shipment.  Your bra shopping experience will be so much more enjoyable…trust me!

As always, thanks so much for stopping by…see you back here real soon!

Photography by Madi Flournoy Henderson

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Twelve weeks ago, I had CoolSculpting for the first time.  I’ve been documenting my journey and today I’m excited to share my 12 week post treatment update!  If you missed my first post where I shared more about CoolSculpting, my decision to get CoolSculpting, and my experience receiving this treatment at Dr. Brian S. Biesman’s office, you can read more HERE.

For the first week or so after my initial treatment, I was fairly swollen and the areas that were treated were still numb.  As the swelling started to subside, I quickly noticed a subtle difference at around week 3.  Right around 6 weeks post treatment, I noticed that my abdomen looked and felt more sculpted.  The biggest difference, beyond a noticeable change in my physical appearance, was that that my clothes were fitting better.  The weather was cooling off around this time and I started wearing more jeans.  It was so nice to feel more sculpted and to feel as if my denim was no longer cutting into the sides of my abdomen.  Slipping on jeans, dresses, and other pieces of clothing that fit better than before was amazing!  It takes 12 weeks to see your full results but I was so pleased, 6 weeks post treatment and I felt that I was progressing just as I should have been.

Now that I am 12 weeks post treatment, I’m happy to report that I am beyond pleased with my results!  From 6 to 12 weeks, I noticed a subtle change in my more sculpted abdomen and I continued to feel more lean.  My clothes continue to fit well and I’m feeling even more confident.  I’ve truly enjoyed wearing more form fitting pieces like this black jumpsuit, which hugs my curves and accentuates my more sculpted abdomen!

I chose to get CoolSculpting because I truly wanted to get rid of some stubborn pockets of fat and have a more sculpted abdomen!  Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and exercise routine is important as well to achieve optimum results.  If you have a bit of stubborn fat that you’d like to get rid of and you are looking to achieve a more sculpted figure, CoolSculpting is a great option to help you achieve those goals.  I’m so glad that I decided to get CoolSculpting…I’ve had such a positive experience and have been looking forward to sharing more about my overall experience with all of you.

As always, I’m here to answer any questions that you may have.  I’ve received a lot of messages with a variety of questions and I will continue to answer those questions honestly and provide you with details on my personal experience.  I encourage you to ask questions…in my opinion, it’s always best to have first hand knowledge from someone who has experienced CoolSculpting in order to make the best decision for yourself.

I also encourage you to visit CoolScuplting’s website to learn more: https://www.CoolSculpting.com/what-is-CoolSculpting/fat-reduction-vs-weight-loss/.

Thank you for allowing me to share my personal experiences with you!  I appreciate your ongoing support!

I’ll see you back here real soon!

Photography by Madi Flournoy Henderson

The post My CoolSculpting 12 Week Update appeared first on KBStyled.

If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to make for a holiday party or for your family this holiday season, look no further!  This goat cheese cranberry crostini recipe is simple to make, delicious, and a total crowd pleaser.  I’m sharing how to make your own cranberry sauce to put atop of the warm goat cheese crostini as well!

Goat Cheese Cranberry Crostini

• 1 fresh loaf of Italian bread (pick up another loaf if serving for a larger group)
• olive oil
• 1 log of soft goat cheese
• honey
• 1 bag of fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick

Set your goat cheese out so it softens and warms up to room temperature and start with making your cranberry sauce.  Add 1 bag of rinsed fresh cranberries, 1/4 cup of orange juice, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cinnamon stick into your saucepan.  Cook over medium to medium-low heat until cranberries have bursted/softened stirring frequently.  You will want the consistency of your cranberry sauce to look more like a jelly…it should not be runny.  Remove your sauce from the heat and let cool a bit.

Cut the loaf of bread into 1/2 inch to 1 inch thick pieces (depending on your preference), drizzle with olive oil, and toast in the oven at 350 until lightly golden.  Place your softened goat cheese into a bowl, drizzle with a generous amount of honey, and whip to get a smooth consistency.

Remove your toasted bread from the oven, spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each piece, and top with your homemade cranberry sauce.  Top with a sprig or two of thyme…you can even add a walnut on top if you’d like to add a little crunch!  Serve and enjoy!

This recipe is one of my absolute favorite holiday appetizers!  Let me know if you decide to give it a try!

As always, thanks so much for stopping by…see you back here real soon!

The post Goat Cheese Cranberry Crostini appeared first on KBStyled.

Fill your home with the most delightful holiday scent with this DIY stove-top holiday potpourri!  The combination of citrus, cinnamon, and pine is amazing and sure to put you in the holiday spirit!  Plus, you can make the is under 5 minutes…its super simple!

DIY Stove-Top Holiday Potpourri

• 1 large grapefruit (cut into 8 quarters)
• 1 apple (cubed)
• 2 lemons (cut into 4 quarters each)
• 1 package of cranberries (*depending on the size of your pot, fill the pot with cranberries so there is no space in between)
• 3-4 cinnamon sticks
• fresh pine clippings or rosemary sprigs if you don’t have access to pine

Place all ingredients in your pot and fill it with water.  Place your pot on your stove-top and let simmer on low for as many hours as you’d like.  Don’t bring it to a boil, the key is to just let it simmer.  As the ingredients heat up and the flavors meld together, your home will be filled with a delicious holiday scent.  You will also be able to simmer this potpourri mixture for days…just add more water when necessary.

Here’s to filling our homes with love and delightful scents this holiday season!

As always, thanks so much for stopping by…see you back here real soon!

The post DIY Stove-Top Holiday Potpourri appeared first on KBStyled.

My love for jewelry and beautiful accessories started at a young age.  I always spent time going through my Mom’s jewelry box trying on her jewelry and begging her to let me wear it.  Of course she would always tell me that “some day” she would pass down her jewelry and I remember thinking that I couldn’t wait for that day.

I always had my eye on a particular birthstone ring…two rubies were set atop a gorgeous gold band and I knew that one day that special ring would be mine because after all, that was my birthstone and that ring was in fact being kept just for me!

I can’t recall when my Mom actually gave me that special birthstone ring but I’ve always cherished it and have a special place for it in my jewelry box.  Now that Addison is 7, she has really enjoyed going through my jewelry, trying on my pieces, and dressing up with my jewels.  She even asks when I will give some of the pieces to her…I see so much of myself in her and as her Mom, I can’t wait to gift her some of my pieces one day too.

Ever since becoming a Mom, I’ve always wanted a Mother’s ring that had mine and Peter’s birthstone (which just so happens to be ruby) as well as the birthstone of both Reins and Addison.  There’s just something so special about wearing a piece of custom jewelry that means so much and reminds you of what is most important in life.

Today I’m sharing more about my very special custom Mother’s ring that I worked with JTV to create.  For those of you who have been KBStyled readers for some time, you know how much I love JTV…I’ve shared many gorgeous pieces of theirs over time and I’m a loyal customer of theirs.  They have the most gorgeous jewels and you can also customize your very own piece of jewelry as well.

I had the best time creating my own custom Mother’s ring…it was such a delightful experience and I’m so thrilled with how my gorgeous ring turned out!  Customizing your very own piece is simple…you will select your loose gemstone based on gemstone type, shape, carat weight, and price point.  I knew I wanted our 3 birthstones and I was able to hand select the ruby, peridot, and amethyst gemstone.  My gemstones are different shapes and sizes which I felt created a visually stunning design.

Once you have selected your gemstone, you will then select your setting from JTV’s versatile selection.  They have settings for rings, earrings, necklaces, and more!  Each stone in my custom ring is set in 4 prongs and the design is representative of my all encompassing unconditional love for my family.  Wearing a Mother’s ring is special but when you design it yourself, it’s even more special!

JTV makes the design and customization experience so enjoyable and I love that their pieces are affordable too!  A custom JTV piece makes a great gift for yourself or for someone.

Visit JTV to shop for and select your gemstone and then select one of their gorgeous pre-made settings.  I can’t wait to hear if you decide to create your own special piece.

As always, thanks so much for stopping by…see you back here real soon!

Photography by Madi Flournoy Henderson

The post JTV Custom Gemstone Jewelry appeared first on KBStyled.

As you host your friends and family over the holidays, try making a fun new cocktail thats a bit unexpected but that’s a total crowd pleaser.  A White Christmas Mojito is a great way to bring the holiday cheer…its so festive and really delicious!!!  Not to mention, super simple to make…double or triple the recipe if serving a crowd!

White Christmas Mojito

• 1 cup of lime juice
• 1/4 cup of packed mint leaves and more for garnish
• 1/4 – 1/2 cup of sugar (1/4 if you like it less sweet and 1/2 for a sweeter mojito)
• 1/2 cup of white rum
• 1/4 – 1/2 cup of coconut rum
• 1 cup of canned coconut milk
• sparkling water
• pomegranate arils for garnish

In a large pitcher, muddle the mint leaves, lime juice, and sugar together until the mint leaves have broken down.  I recommend tearing the mint leaves up a little bit before muddling them.  Next, in a blender, pulse the white rum, coconut rum, and coconut milk until smooth.  Pour the blended mixture over the lime, mint, and sugar mixture and stir until well blended.  Refrigerate and chill.

When ready to serve, add a generous amount of ice to your glasses and then pour the mixture over ice.  Fill your glass about half way with mojito mixture and then top it off with sparkling water.  Add a sprig of mint and some pomegranate arils and enjoy!!!

If you decide to try this holiday cocktail, I’d love to hear what you think!  Last year, I shared a White Christmas Sangria recipe that was also delicious.  If you are a fan of sangria, you’ll love this recipe and you can get all of the details HERE!

As always, thanks so much for stopping by…see you back here real soon!

Photography by Madi Flournoy Photography

The post White Christmas Mojito appeared first on KBStyled.

Christmas is less than two weeks away…I know, let that sink in for a moment.  How is it possible that Christmas is upon us?!  I’m pretty sure I say this every single year BUT this year has flown by.  We are trying to slow down a bit and enjoy this special time…our favorite time of year.

The days leading up to Christmas are just so wonderful for my family…from our Christmas tree, to the the twinkling lights, to hot chocolate while watching The Polar Express, to our Elf Chippy visiting, to preparing for Santa’s visit, to all of the holiday festivities…there is no better time of year for us.

We love decorating our home together as a family and one of the many things that I enjoy this time of year is dreaming up our Christmas tablescape…the table I will create for our family dinner on Christmas Eve.  This year I was inspired by a couple of things…my love for plaid and the feeling of warmth that candlelight creates.

Our table will be lit with lots of candles and decorated with natural greenery and magnolia flowers.  I’ve added a little pop of plaid with our table runner and these gorgeous plaid plates.  I decided to use gold flatware to tie in the gold of our candlesticks.  This is one of my favorite tablescapes I’ve created…it just feels so warm, cozy, and inviting.

Don’t worry, if you don’t have all of these things, you can still create a beautiful tablescape with candles and greenery.  It truly does not take much to create an inviting space that your family and friends will want to gather around.

Hope you love our Christmas tablescape as much as I do!

As always, thanks so much for stopping by…see you back here real soon!

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