Simply Sweden

Life + Style

Mrs Tennessee 2022

Honored and so thrilled to share the exciting news of becoming your new Mrs. Tennessee 2022. This opportunity is a dream and I couldn’t be more thankful to embark on this journey alongside such incredible women.

This weekend I was blessed to sit in the company of women who have navigated the waters of holding a title and learn from their experiences. Before passing their crowns to the new queens, we celebrated their journey and how they used their title for good during their reign.

I do not take this gift lighty. As I prepare to head to the National pageant in hopes of becoming Americas new queen, I am looking forward to the growth, experience, and relationships I’ll build along the way.

Pray for courage, endurance, and of course joy in this beautiful process. I want to thank every person who has cheered me on all these years in my endeavours. I hope to make you proud.

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Hit me with your best shot, literally!

I am a girlfriend. If you want details, I’ll tell you. I’ve always hated it when you ask a girl a question, “hey I love your top, where did you get it?” Her response, “oh sorry, I can’t remember.. I think its from never never land that’s super exclusive.” You know the type. Not here friend. I love sharing good finds and all the things I have tried, good, bad and the ugly. I’m hoping that is why you’re here, you can sense that and know I’ll shoot it to you straight.

Over the past few years as I hit my 30’s I have really tried to take better care of my skin and be more preventative. It is an investment for sure, but worth it. I shared this in my stories on Instagram, but a friend of mine shared an analogy of a crumpled paper bag and how it’s hard to undo the wrinkles. But, if you can softly slow the setting of the crinkles, why not?! I’m not saying I want to be perfectly smooth when I’m 80 but I’d like to keep it youthful while I can sister.

I invest in quality skin care! I use alot of products from Skin Pharm, one of my favs is the Youth Serum! And the Lux pads from Anastacia are pure magic! (expensive, but I cut them in 1/2 to make them last longer!) I fully believe in quality skin care! You only get one face people. I’ll share more on my current skin care routine in another post soon.

So, Botox.. I started getting Botox about 2 years ago. After my sweet daughter humbled me in the middle of scolding her, by raising her hand to pause my mama momentum to ask, “why do you have stripes on your head?”… I realized it was time for me. I have never turned back. Emily Findley from Cool Springs Plastic Surgery has taken care of me since. She is the best, if you’re in the Nashville area go see her. She is knowledgeable and knows just what you need. If you have questions, she has answers and she won’t oversell you.

  • This is Emily marking and injecting. First photo shows how she will have you squint and squeeze your face in all ways. Then, she will mark the injection spots.

I’m going to answer a few questions here that were submitted by you all about Botox, facial treatments, etc! If you have any other questions that aren’t answered here, please feel free to message me! If you are looking for answers on how to better care for your skin or a little pickmeup, contact Emily and tell her that we are friends!

Q: What is the difference between Botox and Dysport?

A: Botox and Dysport have the same active ingredient and both relax the muscles to help smooth lines. They are made by different companies and they are dosed differently but essentially do the same thing. Dysport results typically start to show in about 2-3 days and Botox about 5-7 days. But both take up to 2 weeks for maximum effect.

Q: How long does Botox/Dysport last?

A: Both are indicated to last 3-4 months depending on the dose. (For me, I burn through it about 2.5/3 months. If you have a faster metabolism, it’ll go away faster.)

Q: Does it hurt?

A: This is very dependent on your injector, in my opinion! Emily is amazing! She is a board certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist and is well trained. I was always the person who has HATED needles, but she makes it smooth sailing! I’ve been injected by a Plastic Surgeon, and it felt like he was stabbing my face! NO THANKS!

Q: Have you had filler before?

A: Yes! Emily asked me to model for an open house event. I was her lip model. Honestly, I had never really considered lip filler but I was up to try it! Emily knew that I didn’t want to look like a duck and I already had decently full lips, so we didn’t want anything super crazy or noticeable. What I loved about it.. 1) the ridge of my lips was more defined. 2) smoother lip surface for lipstick application. 3) evened out my lips and helped my top lip from sucking up when smiling.

Q: Can you still move your face?

A: LOL! This is a legit question. And I love it! Yes, the skilled injector wants you to still be able to show emotion! If you go to someone who makes your face frozen, don’t go back!

Q: Tell me about the best lasers and peels for sensitive skin-wanting bright even skin?

A: First step would be to determine what is making your skin sensitive… if it’s dryness or irritation, that would need to be addressed first before using anything harsh like a peel or laser! I’d suggest a consult with Emily to determine that path for you!

Q: Have you done any facial treatments?

A: The only facial treatment I have done is micro needling. Which was great! It was a bit of a pain to go through, the stages of healing are different looking for everyone, but at one point you’ll look like a snake shedding. So, if you’re going to do it.. make sure you have the time to heal! I noticed a huge difference in the texture of my skin and evenness!

As always, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have! I am an open book and love sharing with you all what I can. If you’re in the Nashville area and want to book with Emily you won’t be disappointed. All that to say, I don’t believe this is a necessary thing for everyone. We all choose our paths and I know this is extra, but I love my results and am so happy to share, we gotta help each other out!

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Bytten X Sweden

If you’ve watched The Social Delemma, you know that your phone is totally listening to you. You know, you have an idea about something and then all of a sudden you see that same thing online, a place to go, or an advertisement. Well, that happened to me and I was not mad about it.

A few months ago I was sitting on the couch talking to my husband about my watch. I have an apple watch and wear it religiously. I love to know my steps for the day and nerd out on making sure I keep on track. So, I’m sitting there telling him that I wish there was a way to jazz up my watch band. I am not a switcher, in most areas of my life I stay to tride and true pieces. I don’t have a million handbags and switch all the time. I like to invest in one or two pieces that I love and stick with it. My watch band is a simple grey sport band, nothing fancy but I like its simplicity. Although I like the simplicity, sometimes with my outfits I always wish it was a little more unique. But like I said, I’m not in the habit of switching things out. My husband nodded and listened to me and that was that…. so I thought. Literally, five minutes later.. an ad popped up on Instagram for this company, Bytten.

My jaw dropped and it was like fate, lol, or just the mysterious phone listening, but it delivered! I fell in love. Bytten is what my dreams were made of for adding the perfect touch to my already favorite daily watch band. Combing practical life with style, they get me. As I was browsing the designs I was compelled to reach out and share with the creator Jodi, how much I loved her company. We chatted and I knew I would love to work with Jodi and her team.

The new Bytten X Sweden stack is now available! I have been wearing my stack for months now and the amount of times I have been stopped mid sentence, as my hands dance in conversation, has been countless. “Where did you get that band?!” “I am obsessed with that.” “That is the perfect watch band!” The comments have been so exciting to me as I have been anticipating this launch!

The quality of Bytten is amazing, their designs so fresh and timeless, and buildable. Once you buy a Bytten X Sweden stack, you can add more rings with time. Add a gemstone ring, a custom engraved clasp, or even a stud. The options and customzations are endless.

I chose these pieces within the stack that were true to my style and that I thought you all would love too. Classic and simple. I hope you love it and cannot wait to see these gorgeous stacks on your bands too! Make sure to tag me and Bytten in your photos so we can see you rocking your new jeweled band!

This gorgeous stack is now available for pre-order, today 11/09-11/23. Perfect timing for the holidays! What a great gift for a friend, sister, mother, anyone! And you get a special discount during the pre-order sale (11/9-11/16)! Use the code SIMPLYSWEDEN for 15% off my stack! This special discount for you will only be abailable for one week during pre-order so make sure to take advantage NOW!

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Amazon Prime Day!

It’s Amazon Prime day y’all! I thinks it’s safe to say that most of us have taken advantage of our prime memberships this year. I am not sure what I would have done without our prime deliveries during all the madness. Not having to go in store with the kids and all the mask juggle, has been a lifesaver.

These are some of my absolute favorite Amazon purchases. I use my ice roller daily, it firms and reduces puffiness.. and also just feels amazing to wake you up for the day. y’all know my fiddle leaf tree is my third child and these vitamins are essential. So many goodies here that I love so much!

I decied to put together a little Amazon fav finds to share with you all, these are some essentials in our home, ranging from all different categories! The holidays are right around the corner… I almost had a slight panic attack the other day realizing how quickly Christmas will be approching us. I can’t believe it, but Amazon to the rescue. Here are a few Amazon goodies that we love. They make amazing gifts and are at a great price to snag while you can! Happy prime day!

We are about to head to the beach and my kids love their kindles for long rides, but these car mount device holders have saved my mama heart! I can’t stand their necks bent looking down and these have been amazing! We love a massage gun for tight muscles and this gun is priced amazingly for prime day, if you’ve been wanting to invest now is the time! You won’t regret it. Do Barbies and rescue bots go together? They do in our home! Rescue bots frequently visit our Barbie dreamhouse and I can tell you that these toys have provided hours of play, thank you Jesus!

Make sure you’re following me on instagram! I’ll be sharing why we love some of these products on my stories today! Have any questions? Ask me!

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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

The Nordstrom Anniversary sale is here and you don’t want to miss it. The anniversary sale happens once a year. New items released on sale! You get the newest looks at sale price, that’s crazy. I love how Nordstrom let’s you preview the sale and save all your favs so when your sale date comes to shop, you’re ready! I’ve been browsing the sale for a week or so and put together some favorite pages for you. I’ve even put together some style boards.

The anniversary sale has exclusive shop dates for card holder members. If you are higher ranks, such as a Icon Level Member or Ambassador Level member, you are already able to shop! YAY! The sale opens to the public on August 19. Prices will go back up to retail on the 31st.

Check out some the cute pieces I’ve been shopping! Make sure you follow me on the LiketoKNOWit app! I’ve been adding some inspo pages for you guys to shop along with me. Can’t wait to see all you guys score in the sale!

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Coffee Lovers- These are a few of my favorite things

Embroidered Balloon Sleeve Pullover// Embroidered Joggers// Beaded Jewelry (discount code SWEDENPERKINS)

It is no secret that I am a coffee LOVER. I can’t/won’t go without it. It’s not the caffine that I live for, it’s the feeling it gives me. I love waking up and having that warm cup in my hand. I love the smell of coffee and the memories it brings me. I’ve been sippping coffee since I was about 13 years old, maybe a bit before. (Don’t judge, I’m Scandinavian. It’s a thing.) My mother owned a coffee shop when I was 13. I was homeschooled during that time and would wake up early in the mornings, around 4:00AM, to open shop with her. Some of my favorite memories were made in that small drive thru coffee shop. It’s where I learned hard work, dedication, and the love of entrepreneurship.

Together my mom and I came up with drink recipes, got to know the “regulars”, and were there rain or shine. I loved that coffee shop. So like I said, the smell of coffee beans brings so much more than a caffine buzz. My mother still dreams of having another coffee shop one day, ran by herself and my siblings, mostly for the memories to be made again.

I’ve put together a little coffee must have for home coffee drinkers. Don’t get me wrong, I still love a coffee shop drive thru for my occasional latte treat! But, it’s nice to have items and tools at home that can jazz up your coffee life.

Nutpods cafe collection // clear coffee mugs // bulletproof coffee // hand held frother // whipped cream dispenser // ember self heating mug // Ninja coffee bar

I love this Ninja coffee bar system! It brews a 10 cup carafe, can do single cup, a single rich cup for the stronger coffee lovers, iced coffee, and has a frother on the side. It’s a great option for a all in one system. I wouldn’t mind having an espresso maker still at home, but this system does the job for me!

I am a nutpod girl. I used to use classic creamer but when I started tracking my macros and doing intermittent fasting, I quickly realized the classic creamers were not going to work for me. Thats when I discovered nutpods. I love the new cafe flavors! If you haven’t tried nutpods, this is the batch you should start with! So yummy.

My kids got me a whipped cream dispenser last Christmas and it’s so fun to whip out. (see what I did there ha) It’s WAY better than any store bought ready made whipped cream, and customizable. I usually add vanilla extract and then a bit of agave. It’s such a treat. Whenever I have guests over and I bring that out, it always wows. It is a great unexpected gift gadgit.

These are just a few of my favorite coffee items! Drop a note, I’d love to hear if you’ve tried any of these things!

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Clear Shoe Obsessed

I admit, I love a clear shoe strap. When they first started making their mark a few years ago I wasn’t so sure. But then… I got my Steve Madden wedge and was sold, actually obsessed. I love the way the clear straps disappear and lengthen your legs. Cute styles, but still allowing the flow from head to toe. I have a hard time passing up a cute clear strap shoe. Wedges, sandals, block heels… I love them all and have quite a few styles in my closet. I will say if I were forced to choose one pair that I can’t live without, it would be the Steve Madden wedge (shown above). They are tried and true and truly go with just about anything. I’ve linked a few here and as you can see, I’m not lying. Clear straps are my jam! If you haven’t found a pair for you yet, check these out. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

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10 things you may not know about me

HEY GIRL HEY!

As we are getting to know eachother here, I thought it would be fun to start with 10 things you may not know about me!

  1. I touched on this in my About page, but I was named after the Swedish Hospital in Seattle Washington. I was a premie baby that was ready to enter this world too soon. My mother spent 5 weeks in the hospital holding off labor and the name, Sweden, just came to her and felt right.
  2. Speaking of Sweden, I am infact 33% Swedish & Norweigian. I know, that 1% Native American really stole the show.
  3. I am not an avid enneagram person but I’ve tested to be a 3 and a 6 on different tests.
  4. Ever since I became pregnant with my first child, I have a thing for potatoes. Pretty much made any way, I love them. Pre-pregnancy I really could take or leave them.
  5. I LOVE coffee. I could drink it at all hours of the day.
  6. My first job was at Starbucks, meant to be.
  7. My first car was given to me by my grandfather, it was a 1982 BMW. No power steering, no power windows, or really no power anything. Some days I felt like I’d be better off doing the Fred Flinstone shuffle out of the bottom of the car to get the car up a hill. But nevertheless, I loved it.
  8. If I could live anywhere, it would probably be Scottsdale Arizona. I love the dry heat and the desert scenery.
  9. I love to create a business. My husband always teases me when I have an idea, he says “better make a business card!” I love starting a business, creating a logo, printing stationary and cards… it feels so dang good to me. Since being married, I have had 3 sucessful businesses.
  10. My dream job would be a set designer. I have always loved working with photographers to conceptualize and execute the project. Putting the pieces together for a photoshoot always brings me so much inspiration and fulfillment. OR a singer. (Every Nashville girls dream. So cliche)

This was fun digging out random facts, maybe I’ll do it again soon! Drop a comment below of a random fact about you!

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Beach Style – The Pink Lily

We went to Florida about a month ago for a family getaway. It was heavenly. After what has felt like a year at home due to Covid-19, we were SO ready for a change of scenery. I’m already ready for anohter trip! And although I have loved a good loungewear set, I was also dying to put together some pretty everyday looks. Getting dressed up and feeling like a person again felt so amazing. If you’re going on a trip soon, check out The Pink Lily. They have so many great pieces, from swimsuits to dresses, they have such great variety.

Here are some of my favorite looks. I typically wear a size small in most items but will specify for you below!

I cannot say enough about this romper. It is such a flattering fit, the tie in front is adjustable so you can tie to your desired cut. Great length, not too short and cheeky but still shows the right amount of leg! Also comes in blue.
*Wearing Size SMALL*

This swimsuit! Hands down my favorite swimsuit of the year. The cut is so flattering, the tan and white stripes are so classy, and that straight neckline.. so much love for this! The compliments I recieved were endless. It is a must have.
*Size up in swimwear. I’m wearing a MEDIUM*

The colors in this open weave knit sweater give me vacay vibes. I am so into the tan and bright blue combo. It’s the perfect weight for throwing over a swimsuit or pairing with cut off shorts.

*Wearing a size SMALL*

A classic shift dress never disappoints in my book. I love the easy effortless look they bring. Chic and comfortable. Perfect when paired with heels for a date night out, wedding guest attire, or a girls brunch!

*Wearing a size SMALL*

Pink Lily always has the best graphic tees and sweatshirts. SO many cute designs and they are so comfortable! I am always wearing one of their cozy pullovers around my house. Can you ever have enough sweatshirts? Nope!

*Wearing a size SMALL. If you want a more oversized fit, size up.*

I always like to prepare for my trips with cute clothes. The Pink Lily always has the perfect pieces, that are quality and a great price in my opinion. You don’t have to break the bank to have a stylish vacay wardrobe. Check out my FAQ page for discount codes to some of my fav shops.

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Amazon Friday Finds- Summer Wear

We all love Amazon. There’s not really a week that goes by, sorry honey, that I haven’t ordered something off Amazon. Whether it’s vitamins, clothing, kid toy’s, dog treats, household items.. we all know, Amazon has you covered! So, I have decided that every Friday I will share a few of my fav new finds! Let me know if there is anything specific you’d like me to hunt down for you! My husband and I have a lot of shared hobbies, but hunting is one of our favs, just a tad different styles of hunting. His involves a bow and arrow, mine internet access! (ha!) Enjoy, happy Friday!

Pom swim suit // Kimono // Clear slides // Stripe Swim // Neutral Flip Flops // Sun Hat // Tortoise Sunnies

Finding summer staples like these on Amazon is a life saver. As Summer trips sneak up on us, beach getaways or weekend lake trips, you may be like me and have forgotten a few staple pieces for yourself. Amazon for the win. Prime shipping will save the day and these pieces are classy but on trend. You all know the pom swim suit shown above is a fav of mine. I have it in black, hot pink, and I may have just ordered another. (shh!) It is such a flattering suit! I currently have a fun pom pom tan running along my rib cage! not kidding.

I’m obsessed with this Kimono! It’s a total Free People dupe (shown for $88) and is only $19. Throwing a classic piece like this over a swim suit is the perfect way to cover up and be able to run around. Also paired with white denim or cut off shorts would be so cute.

Summer is here friends! Having your staple pieces like these on hand is always a good idea!

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