Northwest Til Death

One of my favorite things to do no matter what city I’m in is go to local boutiques/shops. I love checking out local artist/merchant merchandise. One company that I have fallen hard for and want to share with all is Paper Diamond Clothing. I’m a sucker for all things PNW...as you all know. So as soon as I saw the brands slogan Northwest Til Death I was hooked & wanted to know more about this local creator.

Instagram: justin.newman

Created by Curtis Ashby Curtisashbyart.com in 2008, As a way to display & sell drawings he had created. The concept...create something out of nothing. Starting all of his designs by drawing them on paper, scanning onto a computer then with a little work it becomes a diamond.  

I asked the meaning behind the brand. Curtis responded.

“Northwest Til Death” was coined a proclamation of pride for the region that we live in here in the Pacifc Northwest. The Northwest is such a unique area to live. I wanted to make a line of apparel that reflected that uniqueness.  

Instagram: kmat_

Instagram: PaperdiamondsNW

Painting throughout middle school and high school, taking multiple art classes per day, paved the way for the artist he is today.  A friend wanting to purchase a painting only if he had a place/funds for it, got Curtis thinking about how he could create affordable art. The idea of a clothing company was born.  

Instagram: zackkcore

Curtis is currently working on the winter collection for the Northwest Til Death line. With a few new shirts, sweatshirts and more to look forward to. Also keep in mind beanie weather is upon us. Curtis hand sews the patches on to these trendy beanies he sells. So keep an out...they are my favorite!!!! 

You can snag Northwest Til Death goods at local Tacoma stores such as:

Compass Rose... also the Olympia location

Bleach 

Nearsighted Narwhal

Tacoma Art Muesum 

Or check out their online shop...

Northwesttildeath.com

Instagram: minnesxwtan

If you haven’t yet we are doing a giveaway so make sure to head over to my Instagram to participate

Brit_PNW

Look out for the next Postcard From The PNW You  

Brittney

Tacoma Needs Love- Michael Johnson

Anyone who has Instagram or really any social media account will understand what I’m about to share....

About a month ago I went on Instagram, like any other hour of my day checking my notifications haha per usual I had a message notification and went to it... it was a comment on my story from someone who I’ve been following for awhile now, someone who I double tapped every photo posted, may have even commented on a few....haha So I did what any normal girl would do, screamed and jumped around!!!! I showed Anthony who has no social media accounts what so ever and had no clue what I was even showing him...haha he doesn’t get it.  

So...

I wrote back and I’m glad I did. Yet again the blog has opened doors or opportunities, ones I couldn’t even imagine a few months ago.  

Let me introduce to you local Tacoma Photographer Michael Johnson ... he has an eye for capturing beauty in anything he points and shoots at.   

1. Lets start off with why so much love for Tacoma?

Well I was born here and its just home to me. Tacoma gets a bad rap from our neighbors to the north. Oddly enough it is now them that are coming down here and buying all the locals out of housing options. Now they finally realize how cool Tacoma is and figure by gentrifying all of the neighborhoods then it will be a livable place for them. Aside from that some of the best people I know are from here, and Tacomas diversity is part of what molded them into awesome individuals. That also reflects in the art that is created here which often times reflects an adoration for the city. I love the fact that you can get lost in a forest, put your toes in some sand, and admire modest sky scrapers in one city.  

2. How did you get into photography?

Music lead to my interest in photography. I used to be in a band and always appreciated the cool pictures some of our friends would take of us, as well as other bands pictures I saw. Also getting my own place gave me some motivation to take some photos. When you get a place you naturally want to decorate it. IKEA and Burlington do have some nice pictures to hang on the wall but its all hotel art and has no connection to me. I wanted to take pictures that I could hang on our walls and know they have a meaning to us, as well as reflect my personality. 

3. What inspires you?

My family. And telling me I cant do something. I want my kids to experience all the cool things I got to experience as a kid and didn't appreciate until I was older. In 1st grade we hopped in our Vanagon and drove across the county. I want to do that with my family. Maybe sans vanagon because they are wild expensive but in some type of car. I wan't to create those memories with my family because beyond toys a kid never forgets adventures like that. That being said my parents took me to Disneyland when I was like 2 and I didn't remember shit... so that doesn't count.  

4. Favorite Tacoma location to shoot?...and photo!

I love hidden beach in Titlow. Great sunsets, beach, bridge, quiet, close! Easy to go there with the family and snap a few pictures. I don't think I have a favorite Tacoma photo but I do love the daytime long exposure I took from the Convention center of downtown Tacoma. and any pictures of or at the Murray Morgan Bridge

5. What do you want your viewers to take from your work?

How I see things around here and abroad. You can find a little personality in the way people edit their pictures... maybe some of that can leak through. 

6. Your dream place to photograph...?

Yellowknife

7. One question nobody has ever asked you about your photography?

Why do you do it?

If you know me, once I saw the answer to the last question I immediately wrote back asking why...

-I do it because it's peacful and provides an artistic outlet that I no longer get from music. There is an awesome feeling that comes from making a normal scene turn into something magical as well.-

Michael doesn’t just take photos of beautiful cities he also takes portrait photos go check out his work on his Instagram pages you will feel inspired and fall in love with cities you have or have not visited.

Michaelweldonphoto

Michaelweldonprotraits

Look Out For The Next Postcard From The PNW 

Brittney

Fashion Is Art And You Are The Canvas

Do you know me? Haha if you do! You know I love fashion and art! OBSESSED if you will....

I’ve been following MARIA BONITA or Mbconceptstore on instagram for awhile now.  I was drawn to their page instantly. They take fashion and art to the next level... eye appealing. 

Two sisters Zasil & Zamara both love to travel and both completed their fashion careers in  Paris, Milan, and London.  Inspired by their Mexican culture They created Maria Bonita located in Miami Florida or online at Maria Bonita. Working with well known Mexican brands, translating their culture, people, and lifestyle, into fun trendy pieces that all will love.

Besides their online store and shop, they have a blog sharing

- Famous Mexican Designers

- 5 Yummy Mezcal Cocktails ❤️

- Coolest Accessories For Your Next Happy Hour

- How to Wear Colors Even When Your Not Into Colorful Clothes

They sent me these gorgeous bracelets from their shop and I can’t wait to purchase some of their amazing pieces.

Go check them out Maria Bonita 

Look Out For The Next Postcard From The PNW

Brittney

Taking A Risk

It’s been awhile...

As majority of you all know I went through a big career change... haha as well as hair change!!!  I had been with the same company for five years & within those five years my work ethic was created... what I mean by that, I was taught discipline and how to be the best worker.  From co-workers to bosses, they have shown me how to be successful in all that I do.  I have been lucky enough to meet some inspiring ladies along the way, the ones that have touch my heart I have taken a piece of you all on my new journey....

This last month and a half I’ve been establishing my new routine... I’ve learned that in the beginning of any new chapter, focus on the prize...not only do I feel like my new work has set me up for success but I have set myself up too. I have set goals and accomplished them in a short amount of time. Taking a risk on myself makes me want to share with all of you out there that if you want something...just do it. 

Now for the blog...

Now that I’ve mastered my new routine I have set aside some time to get back into blogging. 

Something to look forward to this week... 

Two traveling sisters that own a boutique in Florida, I can’t wait to share their story... 

Look Out For The Next Postcard From The PNW! 

Brittney

4 Ladies Who Decided To Go For It

Since starting this blog, opportunity has come knocking on my door. Opening up new places to see, events to attend and relationships to grow. I was just recently invited to Uplift A Woman In Business Workshop on Confidence. I had no plan on blogging about this event or taking photos. This event was for me, to hear and get insight and advice on my future endeavors from a group of ladies with similar interests. This gathering brought together bloggers, artists, small business owners, and Tacoma lovers! It really touched me, a room full of women, supporting women.  Which inspired this weeks post, I want to share a few talented ladies, that have created their own businesses and have amazing products.  

I have to start of with Daphne Podalk at Shop Mom Life Co. Daphne is a fashionista momma, so of course she would design her own line of clothes!!! Her crewnecks and shirts are buttersoft with clever phrases printed across them from Mom Life, to my new favorite Boss Babe. While shopping for yourself you can shop for your little ones too!!! Daphne's creativity and quality of fabrics keep me coming back for more!!! 

Which brings me to my next gal, this one I came across on Daphne's Instagram page for Shop Mom Life Co. she was doing a giveaway at the time partnering up with another small business owner at Harper Apothecary the owner is Lauren she is a licensed estherician. Who creates organic, natural, toners and serums with a line for everyone.  Recently turning 32 I put on my list of things to do: Start taking care of your skin. So I reached out to Lauren via Instagram and wrote her a few questions about my skin, asking her advice on what to purchase.  She responded quickly and I bought. It's been two weeks now. Not only does my skin feel amazing it looks great too.  I have probably bought one thing per week since using her Rewind Line (anti aging) to a mask, as well as some essential oil roller balls to help with sleep, energize and grounding. She is also a great source for momma and baby care! 

The next mompreneur is Jen Newland of Shop Milla And Me on Etsy. I came across her work on a Tacoma page on Facebook. Me being a fashionista I fell in love with her bags instantly.  The hardest part choosing just one. Her fabrics/textiles are thought out and the outcome is beautiful. Jen has found her passion for sewing using it as a creative outlet, a perk she gets to stay home and do it!!! When asked who inspires her, she replied Milla, my daughter.

I recently just met Ali of Happy Fox Studio Jewelry.  Not only is she very sweet and wanting to help others, She makes beautiful jewelry mostly from reclaimed materials.  I can scroll through her Instagram page all day looking at her precious items she has created. Instagram is where you will find her shop, she puts the price and you are able to purchase by commenting. I'm eyeing a couple of things right now! 

If you haven't heard of these fabulous ladies go check them out! Remember to support local! 

Blog Take Over Post Three: Katy's Disney Art!

Looky looky I found Hooky...just kidding it's me Katy and I'm back again for my final Disney post this week! I've so enjoyed sharing all my "knowledge" with you and I really hope you learned something from it. 

Today I'm going to show you guys my body...ok, my tattoos...my Disney tattoos! I've been getting "inked" for 11 years now and I'm lucky enough that my brother is an amazing tattoo artist, so he helps fuel my addiction. I have over 30 tattoos and 9 of those are Disney related. I'm able to express my self through my tattoos and I can honestly say I regret none of them. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. 

Snow White.
She was the first Disney princess and one of my favorites so I felt she deserved to be front and center...after all she did start it all. 

Rafiki.
He's my newest tattoo. Rafiki is the reason I fell in love with Disney so it felt right to have him on my hand

Disneyland sign.
This is probably my favorite tattoo. I love the colors I love the style...I'm obsessed. This is also probably my most admired tattoo from my fellow "Disnerds".

"Think Happy Thoughts".
 This is a quote from Peter Pan. If you read my first post here I talked about having an anxiety disorder. I got this as a reminder to think good things when I'm in those moments of panic...and also because it's Peter Pan...duh.
&
Genie's lamp. 

Main Street coordinates.
I got this matching tattoo with my cousin who I go to Disney with every year. 

Kissing Mickey & Minnie. 



Sleeping Beauty's castle. 

Peter Pan shadows. 

This November I'm lucky enough to get tattooed by Miss Mae La Roux. If you don't know who she is I highly suggest going to her Instagram. She specializes in Disney tattoos and she is mind blowing. This will be my longest, biggest and most expensive piece. It's going to be insane and I'm definitely counting down the days.

Thank you guys so much for following along this week with me as I spewed Disney all over Brittney's blog...and of course a special thanks to Brittney! This has been so much fun and I've enjoyed sharing my love for Disney with you all. Remember to always have courage and be kind.

If you want to keep up with my Disney filled life head on 

over to my Instagram: MainStMuse. Let's be friends! 

Blog Take Over Post Two: Food, Rides and More with Katy

Hello again, it's me Katy with another Disney filled post for you. I hope you all enjoyed my first post here on Brittneys blog. Today I'm going to go over some of my favorite things to do when I get to the parks and a few tips I have for you as well. Enjoy!

-My number one tip I tell everyone is...use the fastpass system!! This is so important! Always keep on top of your fast passes. Know when your allowed to use your current fast pass and when you're able to get your next one! I typically grab my next fast pass on my way to use my current pass...I hope that makes sense...and I'm sorry for the excessive use of the word "pass" in this paragraph. Keep in mind that they've recently changed their system at Disneyland. All your tickets are now loaded onto your park ticket and you get to keep those little time reminders as souvenirs...which I personally really appreciate! Fast passes will make your day go by so much smoother and you will get the most out of your trip! As of late July they've also released a fastpass system called the MaxPass...this allows you to access fastpasses to both parks on your phone. This does cost an extra $10 a day and you have to be in one of the parks to use it. I've yet to try it but I hear it's pretty amazing!

-Ok, let's talk about food. This may or may not be one of my most favorite parts about Disney. I highly recommend splitting meals when you get to the parks. It's pretty expensive and the portions are usually pretty large. Disneyland is filled with so many snack options which I love more than the actual meals...so I like to stick to a small lunch/dinner, that way I can enjoy the snacks! My number one place to eat is the Plaza Inn. Not only was this Walt's favorite place to eat when he came to the park but it has the worlds best fried chicken in my opinion. I also really love the French Market Restaurant, it's quick dining with tasty/large options. Many times I will head out of the parks for meals to save money. I'll either drive to some place like In N Out or I'll head to Downtown Disney. My favorite option in DTD is hands down Earl of Sandwhich. They have a holiday sandwhich there year round that tastes like thanksgiving...it's amazing and affordable. You can walk to Downtown Disney in between the parks or for quick access, hop on the tram. If you want food but don't want an entire meal then head over to the Bengal BBQ across from Indiana Jones. They sell meat and vegetable skewers for under $5 and they are delicious. As far as snacks go there are honestly way to many to list but I'll give you a few of my favorites. The most obvious is churros. You can find them all over the parks, but I personally love the ones at downtown Disney, why?! Because they have seasonal flavors that are constantly being switched AND you can dip them in Nutella. If you head on down main street towards the castle and to your left you'll find the Jolly Holiday Cafe. They not only have great food options but they have the insanely delicious Matterhorn Macaroon... this white chocolate dipped coconut mountain treat will only put you back a couple dollars and leave you with a happy stomach! If coconut is not your thing I HIGHLY suggest making your way to the Mint Julep bar, where you can find the infamous Mickey shaped Beignets. Don't forget to shake your bag to cover every inch of dough! Honestly I could go on and on about the food at Disneyland but this paragraph is already getting long...but trust me when I say you won't be sad about anything you eat here! Also keep in mind food is constantly being added or changed in the parks. Whether it's for an event or a holiday, there's always something exciting and 

new! 

-Let's talk about rides shall we? We'll start with some of the most popular rides that aren't the easiest to get on. Peter Pan...oh how I wish you'd get a fastpass. Unfortunately PP does not have a FP so if you don't want to wait 40 mins I suggest walking very fast to this ride at rope drop. Radiator Springs Racers is one that you also want to head to right away. If you want to ride with your group I suggest getting to DCA before rope drop and once it drops get to the fastpass line because they go fairly quickly. The newest ride at DCA is Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout. This line will be long for awhile since it is new and everyone's talking about it. The fastpasses to Mission Breakout go extremely fast and the line is almost always a minimum of 60 mins...so head there first thing in the morning if this is on your list. I highly recommend taking advantage of the single rider lines. If you're not traveling with toddlers than you can get on rides fairly quick using this line. I'm talking hopping on Radiator Springs Racers sometimes in 5 minutes. You won't get to ride with your group but you won't have to wait in line forever. A lot of rides offer the option of single rider, so definitely use it! My personal favorite ride? I can't choose one...so, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad or Pirates...or Racers...ok that's three. Oops.

-One of my most recent finds at Disneyland is their walls...I know...this sounds crazy...but this is a real thing. It's all over Instagram and YouTube. All the parks have certain walls that make for great photographs. If you run a Disney Instagram or just love selfies than I highly suggest googling the most loved Disney walls! A couple of my favorites are the Small World wall and basically any wall/door in Toon Town. 

-As far as clothing in Disneyland goes I always suggest comfort over cute! Now I know we all want that adorable castle photo but your feet will regret it later. I've made the mistake of wearing cute new vans with Disney Princesses to the park only to be in awful pain by the time I reached the gate. They got thrown in a locker before I entered the park and I ended up in Old Navy flip flops for 3 days...I wasn't too smart that trip, but hey you live and learn. I personally bring a worn in pair of Nikes or Adidas as well as a pair of yoga flip flops in my backpack. Sanuk brand are my favorite, you can find them on Amazon or at the Sanuk store in downtown Disney! Also, don't forget a coat for the night time, it gets cold year round as the sun goes down when you're in Disneyland! 

-Merchandise...oh Disney Merchandise...how I love thee...but my wallet, not so much. The parks are filled with amazing souvenirs which can be a problem for me. I have a bit of a mug obsession and ok let's face it an anything Disney obsession. This can really put a dent in your wallet and make it a pain to pack for your trip home. Most of the stuff at the resorts is sold on the Disney Parks App or Disneystore.com. They have discount codes a lot of the time and Friends & Family a couple times of year so I personally suggest waiting. I know that can be hard if you travel with kids so what I like to do is head to the Target on Harbor Blvd. They have tons of Disney clothes, souvenirs, toys and even some ears...this will save you a pretty penny...and tears from your kids who want everything! You can pick up your autograph books for the kiddos here too!

Well folks I could go on for hours about Disneyland but I'll leave you with that for now! I hope you all have a magical day.