elliven studio: September 2016

Luxury Awaits In Toronto

Thursday, September 29, 2016

It's incredibly hard to believe that BlogPodium 2016 has come and gone. It was a fantastic event and dare I say, perhaps the best yet? It felt slightly more relaxed, but the energy was still there. With some new features (Speed Dating) and a beautiful location, it was all in all, an extremely amazing day.

While in Toronto, I had the absolute pleasure of staying at the breathtaking Trump Toronto Hotel. I knew that this hotel was amazing, but it wasn't until I set eyes on the lobby that I understood just how incredible it was.

The lobby features an exquisite cherry blossom branch that is made with Swarovski crystals and is beautifully backlit

My little design loving heart was pitter pattering as I approached the front desk (I was totally taking a video for Snapchat!). The attention to detail was more than apparent and I couldn't get enough. I was greeted with the warmest welcome and a deliciously warm cloth to wipe my hands.

The 65-storey hotel is perfectly located. I basically plan everything around where Union Station is and it took me no more than 10 mins to walk to and from in almost a direct route! As much as I love the hustle and bustle of the city, I prefer to be able to easily navigate my stay there!

An important aspect of this hotel's mission, is to make you feel at home. Hallways are designed to mimic apartment buildings and as a result, they are warm and welcoming. Each guest receives a personalized service of an attache, who's there to help make your stay the absolute best. They even take the time to gather as much information about you prior to your arrival - likes, dislikes, etc so that they can customize your stay as much as possible.

My one-bedroom suite was spacious, detailed, beyond comfortable and featured touch panel controls! It boasted 750-square feet of living space, including a powder room, entry closet, living space (with bar), workspace and of course a generous sized master bedroom. The all marble ensuite had...wait for it...a tv in the mirror, large soaker tub and all glass shower, plus gloriously heated floors. I adored the campaign style double sink vanity. I can't deny that this was the most spectacular suite that I've ever stepped foot in and I officially need a velvet couch at home!

Surrounded by fantastic city views and a peek at the waterfront, this room was everything and more. I couldn't help but take in all of the design elements once again. Chrome hardware paired with the most elegant trim and perfectly selected light fixtures paired with luxe drapery. Ahhh, it was such a wonderful space!

We dined at the America Restaurant (my delicious meal featured tomatoes from Prince Edward County!) and toured the spectacular Sky and Wellness Suites. You guys, they were something straight out of a movie! I still get goosebumps thinking of it. It was just incredible, seeing such an exquisitely designed space. The gorgeousness didn't stop there. The stunning details were even more apparent on the Exchange Floor, which houses all of the meeting suites (which can be set up to your liking and for your specific event requirements).

You all know how important family is to me and that I appreciate details. I just found that this hotel made these both a priority in a way that you felt like you were important to them. You aren't just another guest. That's pretty darn amazing. I had a little more time to laze around on Sunday, so I took advantage of the in-room dining service and just sat back and relaxed. The sun was streaming through the windows and the slow pace was absolute perfection after a busy day at BlogPodium. I was especially thankful for the turndown service the night before. I walked into the room (exhausted) to the most relaxing music, a bottle of water bedside and slippers perfectly placed. Dreams!

turndown service - copyright Trump Toronto

such a delicious meal and the grapefruit juice was no doubt the best I've ever had!

Fun fact! The Trump Toronto is a both a hotel that also has over 100 residences. This is where the distinct Champagne and Caviar decor theme can be seen. Champagne (cream and stainless steel decor) is for the residences and the Caviar decor (bronze and black) for the hotel. Another attention to detail that you can't help but notice.

My stay was magical. From the stunning Swarovski crystal art instalment behind the front desk, to the attache, to the trim details to the turndown service. Everything just made me smile more and more. It was a stay that I won't soon forget. The amenities were incredible and the comforts were embraced, but my design heart walked away completely inspired and in awe of such a beautiful hotel.

Have you stayed? Did you feel like it was just one warm hug after another?

Cheers,
Julie
***The Trump Toronto kindly provided me with a complimentary stay for one of the two nights that I stayed. All opinions are completely my own. My stay was simply amazing***

Fall Coffee

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

This past Sunday we decided to pick up some coffee and enjoy the streets of downtown. We certainly don't do this enough. The weather was perfect in every which way and the coffee was delicious. These temps are my absolute favourite, when the sun warms you up just enough and your most comfortable with jeans and a cozy sweater. I have a feeling that this sweater is going to be worn a lot during the cooler months!

Cheers,

Julie

Talbots x NBCF

Monday, September 26, 2016

wrap // jeans // shoes // jacket // purse

Today, I'm proud to be partnering with Talbots and the National Breast Cancer Foundation to support their campaign, which runs from Sept 26th through the month of October. They have come together once again to raise awareness and funds for the NBCF a worldwide organization. This year they have designed a gorgeous Blanket Wrap. 20% of the net proceeds of any wrap purchased will benefit the NBCF.

You can find myself and other bloggers sharing our styled blanket wrap on Instagram. Simply search for the #TalbotsxNBCF hashtag.

Have a lovely Monday, friends.

Cheers,
Julie
**Talbots kindly provided me with the pieces, however all opinions are completely my own**

Weekend Cozy

Saturday, September 24, 2016

sweater (currently 40% off!) / ring

I'm embracing fall 100%. The temps are beginning to drop and hover in the mid-high teens, which I absolutely love. Bring on the distressed denim, comfy sweaters over tanks and delicious cups of hot chocolate.

Weekend plans are at a minimum. After a crazy couple of weeks and another busy week next week, I'm completely for doing absolutely nothing for the next two days.

Have a beautiful weekend, friends!

Cheers,
Julie

Cozying Up The Patio For Fall

Thursday, September 22, 2016

Happy first day of Fall, friends! My favourite season is officially here and though the temps aren't exactly fall like just yet, we are prepping for cozy family time on our new deck.

We really do keep it simple for fall, no crazy decorating. It's all about layering throws (that come inside once we are ready to head in) and surrounding ourselves with seasonal decor. Mother Nature is pretty much your sidekick when it comes to decorate for fall in my opinion. My favourites: mums, branches and pumpkins. Cozy sweaters, comfy jeans, delicious treats and beverages are necessary oh and your favourite book or magazine too! But really, that's about it! The summer was busy and it's kinda nice to be able to kick back and relax!