THE BEST PLACE TO FIND AN EASTER DRESS IN BIRMINGHAM: CLOVER AND BEE

If you’re like us, you probably also just remembered that Easter is around the corner and you STILL have NOTHING to wear—oopsie daisy! Do not fret, dear reader, you don’t have to go on any easter egg hunts for this info.

At Bustle, we help guide you into the wedding dress of your dreams. We know how valuable it is to create meaningful connections with you. It’s our biggest desire to introduce you to our remarkable gowns while making you feel at home—comfortable and treasured. Needless to say, our expectations are high when it comes to local boutiques. Clover + Bee checks every box effortlessly!

““Whether it’s the perfect fit, a unique accessory, the ideal gift, or a memorable connection, we hope you feel like one lucky girl when you visit us at our boutique in Birmingham, AL.””

— CLOVER + BEE

Formally known as Cradle + Bee, this local treasure trove sits pretty in the heart of Cahaba Heights in Birmingham, AL. Clover + Bee is a burst of color, waiting to give you your daily dose of serotonin. This boutique is INSPIRED floor to ceiling. Every little corner filled with something that will make you smile—so whole-heartedly happy.

““We consider ourselves truly lucky to have you as our customer, and our personal service is designed to let you know how special you are to us. You can expect a welcoming environment, attentive service, and a genuine smile from everyone on our team.””

— CLOVER + BEE

Our Bustle girls took a stroll around the shop and fawned over all their new inventory. If you are still in need of an Easter dress, they truly have something for EVERY style. From clean lines and classic silhouettes, to whimsical color palettes and trendsetting styles, they have it all.

Their staff is so incredibly kind and welcoming. We felt so taken care of from the time we walked in.

You really need to visit Clover + Bee to experience it yourself! You can visit their website here, or check out their instagram for all the latest updates.

Birmingham Highlight: Caitlyn Paige Creative

The only thing better than a stunning jacket, is a stunning jacket with a story. Caitlyn Paige reincarnates beautiful memories by giving beloved quilts a second life as wearable art.

Originally from Georgia, Caitlyn moved to Tuscaloosa 4 years ago and married her sweetheart, Russell. Together they spoil their precious pup, Molly (you can swoon over Molly’s IG here: @mollytheshopdog) and own a barbershop in downtown Tuscaloosa. 

When she isn’t being the fairy godmother to our Cinderella, Caitlyn is also a full time photographer who finds the most joy in capturing real life moments and memories. Forever on a search for the best street tacos and margaritas, Caitlyn loves to travel and spend time with her friends and family.

““My mom taught me how to sew when I was like 5 years old. I was constantly creating little outfits or bags and just begging her to sew any chance I got.””

— Caitlyn

From the time Caitlyn was sewing beautiful little dresses, she always dreamt of one day starting a clothing line of her own. Her sweet sketches filled her notebooks all through middle and high school.

““I can remember sitting in class doodling on paper different dresses, outfit ideas, and of course the logo for my brand.””

— Caitlyn

Shortly after Caitlyn married Russell, she said goodbye to her full time job in order to start photography full-time.

““During the early months of starting my photography business, I found myself to be really stressed and felt like I was lacking something. I was lacking a creative outlet that was just for me. So, I started sewing again.””

— Caitlyn

For anyone who enjoys thrifting, you know that sometimes the most extraordinary discoveries happen in your local thrift store. When Caitlyn locked eyes with her first quilt, she knew it needed some major TLC, but also felt a creative vision coming to life. Caitlyn began creating upcycled clothing, exclusively using previously loved vintage quilts. She makes a very intentional decision to never cut any quilt that is in perfect condition. Almost every quilt she uses takes a minimum of 24 hours to get cleaned or repaired. 

““I know that the quilts I use were made by someone before me and at some point the quilts were passed down from generations. I want to do my best to honor the people who originally made the quilts by turning them into something new so that they can be loved for even longer.””

— Caitlyn

Right now, what inspires Caitlyn the most is the idea that things have the ability to gain value over time. Whether that be physical things or moments that are only tangible by the heart. Caitlyn is captured by memories. The ability to remember good moments is a kind of magic that is indescribable to her.

Caitlyn’s favorite piece that she’s created is this pink heavy-weight kimono jacket. The quilt itself is the oldest quilt she has worked with thus far. Which made this project one that was full of challenges.

““Honestly it was so fun to work through those challenges, learn from a few mistakes, and create something that looks worn but also new at the same time. It’s a really cool piece with fun colors, some holes and tears that were naturally created from being loved and worn in its previous life. It’s actually the jacket that made me believe that other people would want one.””

— Caitlyn

If Caitlyn had the glorious opportunity to style any celebrity in one of her designs, she would choose Mr. and Mrs. Bieber. Caitlyn loves the idea of a couple that could share a jacket and wear it different ways!

You can fawn over Caitlyn’s pieces on her instagram and shop them on Etsy! Every one of her phenomenal creations will have you adding to your cart like it’s your day job.

““My hope is that people will wake up and put on their jacket with slippers while they drink coffee, then wear it while out and about with sneakers. Wear it while traveling out west with their cowboy boots and hat. I want it to be something so versatile that it’s the only thing you really want or need in your closet for those colder seasons. Then eventually, I hope these pieces are so loved that they only look better with time and one day will be passed down to the next generation.”  ”

— Caitlyn

BEST FALL COFFEE IN BIRMINGHAM

Summer is subtly sliding out the back door and we are welcoming the first fallen leaves of October like a beloved house guest. As the morning air gets a little cooler and we find ourselves stepping into our fall folklore era, we thought taking an autumnal coffee tour around Birmingham would be the perfect way to say hello to our favorite season. 

The fall coffee menus around town have us craving puddles of cashmere sweaters and freshly lit candles. Whether you’re a PSL praiser or could go with a little less gourd, we found flavor profiles to comfort every tastebud.

The Sweet Potato Chai and Caramel Spice Latte at Domestique

We fell so hard for the Sweet Potato Chai. This masterpiece is a comforting blend of sweet potato puree and homemade chai that will have you craving a fire place and the smell of crisp book pages. While every drink on our list can be served iced, we think this beverage is absolutely best served hot. A cup of cozy for one, please!

The Caramel Spice Latte was everything we needed it to be sans pumpkin - perfectly sweet with depth. This latte is a delicious escape of housemade caramel with cinnamon, allspice, and cloves.

The Apple Crisp Latte at O’Henry’s

The Apple Crisp Latte is a rich, buttery latte with an aromatic blend of apples and cinnamon. Made with steamed oat milk for a cozy finish. We got this beverage iced because you can’t go to the O’Henry’s in Highland Park without taking a stroll through the park. The perfect comforting treat!

The Fall Menu at The Valley Hotel in SOHO

Deciding on one of these lattes was one of the hardest decisions we’ve had to make since trying to pick a favorite Taylor Swift album. We eventually narrowed it down to trying Scarecrow, Sweater Weather, and Bonfire!

Sweater Weather was the perfect latte for anyone who doesn’t want to be hit across the face with sugar. While Bonfire was RICH in the best way. The chocolate flavor was decadent and the marshmallow cuts into that richness and leaves you with the most nostalgic flavor combination.

Our favorite was absolutely the Scarecrow! Praline is a flavor you don’t often find in lattes and this drink left us feeling like we should be at home with a cozy cat, writing in our journal - GOOD VIBES.

Is there anything you think we should add to this fall coffee list? What should we try next?? Let us know in the comments or over on instagram!

Birmingham Highlight: Stash

Stash is a treasure trove of antiques sweetly nestled on the streets of Downtown Birmingham. We strolled through this gorgeous grotto this week and got enough design inspiration to decorate several houses - too bad we only have one. While we’re busy trying to convince our spouses that we should turn our garage into a glam room of antiques, please enjoy this interview with the wonder woman behind it all, Melinda.

Melinda lives in Birmingham with her husband who is her college sweetheart of 25 years. She has two boys - a freshman in Auburn (war eagle!) and the other starting his freshman year at Vestavia Hills. Working as an Occupational Therapist for over 20 years, Melinda always found herself coming to vintage gems as an escape.

“My boys are big outdoorsmen; hunting and fishing, etc. I have always said that when they went out on a hunting trip, it gave me an excuse to go exploring too. Nothing calms my soul like a good long drive down a two lane road exploring and looking for pretty things.
”

— Melinda

Stash began as a “small” corner of treasure in the basement for Melinda to play and display her favorite finds. This little wall of vintage glory quickly grew and eventually completely filled their three car garage - we love a queen with a collection!

“My poor boys have had their fill of moving furniture, rearranging, etc. and were very gracious almost the whole time as Stash came into being.”

— Melinda

Melinda couldn’t help but gush over the brilliant woman on her team at Stash. “Our team includes me, social media wizard, Lynlee Hudlow and the carrier of magic, Amy Hurst. Stash would never be what it is without them. This group came together in the most beautiful & organic way imaginable and I am so thankful they are in my corner!”

When asked what her favorite vintage pieces are in her personal collection, we were not disappointed with Melinda’s answer. 

“I have two favorite vintage pieces in my house. One is my Tobacco Leaf Footbath and the other is a very old crosstitch sampler that says “The Blessing of the House is Contentment.” Completely different design elements but both very meaningful in my life.”

— Melinda

When we visited Stash, we couldn’t help but swoon over the tablescapes and the way all the pieces are designed together. Each item in this collection is incredibly special - conversation starters galore. Melinda is a phenomenal creative with the most intriguing layers of her personality. She is the kind of person that you would want to share a bottle of wine with and DISH. We asked Melinda what celebrity home she would be most excited to decorate and once again, her answer has us all loving her even more.

“If I am telling the absolute truth it would be Snoop Dogg. Go ahead, I’ll wait a minute so you can stop giggling. I think he is hilarious and simply adore his marketing campaigns with Martha Stewart. My friends think it is hilarious that he is on my list of people I would like to meet before I die.
”

— Melinda

If you would like to get a peak into this gorgeous wonderland of vintage, you can check out our instagram reel here. You can also visit Stash in person on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9am-2pm!

BUSTLE'S 9TH BDAY GNO

Last week we celebrated Bustle’s 9th Birthday with our wonderful team and it was nothing short of a phenomenal GNO!

We kicked off our celebratory Girl’s Night with all of Birmingham’s best! Starting out the night with craft beer and cocktails from Bham’s Good People Brewing - cheers!

The handcrafted pizza from Trattoria Zaza was our main course for the evening (a proper ladies night always contains a surplus of cheese and bubbly). We devoured that pizza! Our personal favorite pie was the Spicy Swineapple - a savory and sweet marriage of bacon, ham, calabrian chilies, pineapple, charred onion, tomato, chili oil.

Natalie Zoghby, a local art angel, led our team in painting the town by hosting a class where we each painted our own disco ball whilst sipping on our cocktails. This was such a light-hearted break from a busy week. We all swooned over each other’s color combinations and laughed throughout all our mistakes.

We ended the evening in the best way one could - with CAKE. Daughter’s Baking provided the sweetest selection of flavors, leaving us on a sugar high. We’re so thankful for our enneagram 7 store owner for putting all of this together. Meredith’s kindness and energy brings such a warmth to our team. She truly cares about all of us and our wonderful Bustle Brides. The happiest birthday to our gem of a bridal shop. A big thank you goes to YOU for keeping up with us and always showing the most loyal support. Cheers to you!

Birmingham Highlight: Frothy Monkey Bham is Open!

For anyone who loves the Downtown Food and Bev scene, losing Urban Standard in 2021 was a heart-wrenching goodbye. You can imagine our excitement when we heard that Frothy Monkey would be settling in that space and calling it home - EEK!

Photo By: FROTHY MONKEY

This Nashville based cafe is beloved not only for their 10/10 menu. Their passion for true hospitality keeps us coming back. Frothy Monkey knows that the way to Birmingham’s heart is through community and they aren’t missing a beat. This inclusive wonderland is going to be an amazing addition to Historic 2nd Avenue.

In their recent blog post announcing the Birmingham opening, Brittany Russler, Director of Hospitality, expressed, “We were given the gift of this building with so much character. We have to recognize so many guests of the previous business, Urban Standard, know this space, and have wonderful memories here. There’s comfort in maintaining some familiar pieces of that history for local guests.”

Beautiful Photos By: BHAM NOW - Follow them here.

Frothy Monkey’s goal is to preserve the character of the former Urban Standard building while creating a meaningful space and new experiences for the community they serve.

When we visited, the space was buzzing with an electric energy and the entire team was incredibly warm and inviting. We watched as multiple members of their team approached every guest with kind smiles, asking “Are you enjoying everything?”

We tried the Loaded Biscuits and Chorizo Gravy and the PMP (prosciutto, mozzarella, and provolone) sandwich and spoiler alert, it was AMAZING. You cannot leave Frothy Monkey without trying their signature Monkey Mocha. Made with decadent chocolate and their house made Banana syrup, this is easily one of our favorite coffees in Bham. 

Their current business hours are:

Wed – Fri 7a – 9p & Sat – Sun 7a – 3p (Mon – Tues Closed).

Once Frothy is fully staffed, this location will be open Mon – Sun 7a – 9p!

This is a MUST DO on your next date! Whether you’re in the mood for coffee and brunch or dinner and cocktails, Frothy is the THE place to be. And if you’re like us and crave breakfast food all day, you’re in luck because they serve breakfast until 5pm!

Keep up with this culinary class act through instagram or browse their menu here.

Birmingham Highlight: Cannella Gelato

After several trips to Italy, the founders of Cannella Gelato knew that Birmingham needed a taste of European escape. This local sugar haven originally opened it’s doors in the Brookwood Mall and have since relocated to one of the most beloved streets in Downtown Birmingham, Morris Avenue. You can now satisfy your sweets craving in one of Bham’s newest retail and residential developments, Mercantile on Morris. 

Photo Credit: Cannella Gelato

The aromatics do the talking when you enter Cannella Gelato. The shop is dressed in an array of fairy lights and feels incredibly special. Between their Everyday Signature flavors and their Seasonal selections, we sampled a little bit of everything. Every month is graced with a fresh lineup of seasonal flavors, giving you the opportunity to always try something new. Cannella Gelato prides themselves in using only all-natural ingredients, sourced locally as often as possible. We loved how they also provide treats on the counter for your fur babies - desserts for everyone!

The Bustle team’s current favorite flavors are Chocolate, Mint Cookies and Cream, and Cereal Milk. The chocolate gelato is so beautifully decadent and rich in flavor - instant comfort!

We know Mint flavored ice cream can be a polarizing flavor. You either love it or absolutely cannot stand it. For us, the marriage of Mint and Cookies and Cream is heaven. A perfectly fresh summer flavor. But, all the commotion goes to Cereal Milk. This flavor is a homage to one of the most cherished breakfast cereals of all time, Cinnamon Toast Crunch. You cannot get any better than that!

Photo Credit: Cannella Gelato

Cannella Gelato is the perfect date night delicacy. For couples that want to fulfill their inner child, we highly recommend getting dessert first then walking down Morris Avenue to Carrigan’s for cocktails and some of the best bites.

Visit Cannella’s website for their current lineup of Gelato mastery.

Date Night Done Right's Guide to the BEST Date in Birmingham

This week we are thrilled to introduce Joseph and Alex Bowker, the couple that is masterfully behind Date Night Done Right. Even though Joseph and Alex are from the same hometown, their paths didn’t cross until they met at The University of Alabama eight years ago. From the beginning, dating has been a significant cornerstone in their relationship and helped keep the ever-cherished spark alive.

“We love coming up with new, fun, and exciting ways to spend time together.”

— Joseph and Alex: Date Night Done Right

Most of us cut our teeth on the hope that we could find a lover that helps us ignite that giddy excitement time and time again - thanks Disney. We admire Date Night Done Right because they understand that the beauty of romance is in the intentionality. From cozy date nights at home to fun escapades around town, Date Night Done Right has a curated feed of date nights for all. Today, Alex and Joseph are taking us on their personal favorite kind of couples excursion, a progressive dinner around our favorite city. Join us as we take a romantic culinary tour around some of the most coveted spots in Birmingham!

DRINKS

The Bowkers suggest dawning off date night at Juniper for drinks. Our Bustle team also has a big crush on Juniper. (If you would like to see our full review, you can visit that blog post here.) The duo recommends the Buzz Word cocktail - truly one of the best gin drinks in Bham! Juniper also has a beautiful menu of mocktails for anyone who wants to go sans alcohol. Almost as essential as the bubbly, you can’t leave the restaurant without a quick photo sesh on the gold patterned swing in front of their gorgeous botanical wall.

Images by Mary Fehr and Juniper

APPETIZERS

Next, head to Ovenbird for appetizers. Their small plates are easily shareable and make for the perfect starter. Just as the Beef Fat Candle and Snapper Throat are Chris Hastings’ favorites on the menu, they are the Bowker’s favorites too! There is something for every culinary palate at Ovenbird. The small plate selection feels special every time.

Photos by Ovenbird Birmingham.

ENTREES

Photos by Helen Birmingham

Then, enjoy the main course at Helen, one of Esquire’s “best new restaurants in the U.S.” Pick from a variety of beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and seafood options. The Bowker’s go-tos are always the Coulotte and Seafood A La Plancha. Helen is a refreshed take on classic dining that pays homage to the restaurant owner’s memories cooking over the hardwood coals and smoke of his grandmother’s indoor grill. A sentimental taste to savor.

DESSERTS

End this cinematic evening with dessert at Bottega. Anyone with a love for sweets has not had a complete meal until they’ve eaten the coconut-pecan cake. The interior and exterior at Bottega is what all our date night dreams are made of. The lighting and decor is an open invitation for romance. All you need is a little dose of sugar to spark some coquettish conversation.

Photos by Bottega Birmingham

Visit Date Night Done Right on instagram to view their endless showcase of dating ideas. They also offer personalized date planning services tailored to each couple based on their needs and preferences. These services can be found on their website. The Bowkers love inspiring couples to never stop dating and live their best life together! 

Birmingham Highlight: Sidewalk Film

“I have a very simple definition of a good movie: a good movie makes you forget you’re watching a movie.”

— Michael Cimino

Sidewalk Film is undeniably one of the most sacred gems in downtown Birmingham. Located just downstairs from the beloved Pizitz food hall, this theatre has the unrivaled ability to make all who enter feel like an angsty teenager in their own coming-of-age story.

Most of us can remember what it felt like going to our hometown movie theatre for the first time in our adolescence. The neon lights and fresh popcorn felt like freedom. Who knew that the smell of overly buttered corn kernels would make us feel so powerful. Sidewalk Film embodies that emotion. The intimate setting and nostalgic decor excavate reminders of serotonin filled summers that we forgot existed. Not to mention their curated movie lineup is the best in the city. If you’re craving indie cinematic glory, this is the place to be. Sidewalk is the “cool older sister” for all of us. We guarantee that you’ll be sitting in your seat and pondering life for a minimum of 10 minutes after each film. 

Sidewalk Film began as a local film festival in 1998. For over two decades, this Birmingham based festival has been THE event. Filmmakers eagerly travel across the country every year to screen their work amongst enthusiastic crowds who are eager to devour independent cinema. The founders of Sidewalk wanted those thought-provoking moments to last longer than one week out of the year. Thus, Sidewalk Film & Cinema was born. Now we can get a cinematic hit of endorphins every weekend from Birmingham’s only non-profit theatre. Their heart is to provide a place of community and inclusion for all. From filmmakers to film lovers, we all need a safe space to escape.

Photo Credit: Sidewalk Film

Sidewalk is top tier for those looking to spice up date night or chill with friends. We highly recommend catching a movie then venturing upstairs to Pizitz for cocktails and poke bowls after. Visit their website to check out their weekly showings or get more information about their upcoming Film Festival in August!

Birmingham Venue Spotlight: Christopher Glenn and The Farrell

Ashtynn Bree Photography

This week, Bustle had the absolute pleasure of shooting photos in the stunning sister spaces: Christopher Glenn and The Farrell. These breathtaking venues are both located in the heart of Homewood, just steps away from Soho. We LOVE how the management style and open-vendor policy gives every bride the flexibility to bring their vision to life. If you are looking for a space that is both sophisticated while exuding the upmost warmth, these venues are for you. We know all-too-well that finding a place that marries those two attributes can be harder than expected. Your wedding is THE day. You want your guests to feel significant and comfortable without sacrificing theatrics. Both Christopher Glenn and The Farrell will make accomplishing that dream effortless.

Christopher Glenn

Christopher Glenn is a vintage venue with 1,500 square feet. This timeless space also features a beautiful courtyard, additional hardscape (idyllic for tenting), and a wonderful caterer’s prep room. This event space is perfect for your smaller gatherings and micro events. In an industry that thrives on grand matrimonies, Christopher Glenn is here to host your more intimate moments. We love how versatile this sweet venue can be: weddings, bridal luncheons, baby showers, you name it!

Photo Credit: Spindle Photography

The Farrell

Photo Credit: Eleanor Stenner Photography

Dearest Readers, The Farrell is straight out of your Bridgerton dreams. The venue features an elegant main hall with exposed truss ceilings, honed concrete floors, hand-made steel windows and doors draped in linen and velvet. With a 3,200 square ft main hall, two private suites, a European courtyard and a caterer's ideal prep room, The Farrell is a multifaceted dreamboat. This venue is perfect for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, fundraising galas, corporate events, and the list goes on. It is no surprise to us that this space was inspired by grand properties in Europe. Their stunning landscape mural left our entire team completely speechless - a showstopper.

Photo Credit: Meghan Gray Photography

Photo Credit: Deborah Michelle Photography

The team behind Christopher Glenn and The Farrell value relationships and truly enjoy learning about each bride and their families. You are not seen as just another wedding to check off the list, you are a person with a significant day to celebrate. 

“We enjoy making the venue as stress-free as possible!”

— CG & The Farrell

If you would like to learn more, you can contact Christopher Glenn or The Farrell to schedule a tour!

BUSTLE PHOTOSHOOT CREDITS

GOWNS & STYLING: BUSTLE

PHOTOGRAPHY: ASHTYNN BREE PHOTOGRAPHY

VENUE: CHRISTOPHER GLENN & THE FARRELL

FLORALS: GAIA FLORALS

HAIR & MAKEUP: ASIA NICOLE

MODELS: Hyelim Cho Stockard, Trudie, Ashton Loreal

CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT: Laine White & Jillian Darling