Sometimes I wonder if whilst walking through the streets of Akron, or busting a move in its hallowed dance halls, someone might come up to me and say, “Hey, I read your blog!” It has never happened. Although, a couple of weeks ago, during a brownie eating session at the apartment of two very good friends, we decided to meet their new neighbors and offer them the rest of the brownies, before we inevitably devoured them ourselves.

So whatdya know…. the brand new neighbors had already filled their apartment walls with fun personal and vintage art everywhere and were listening to 1940s music through their retro sound system. I liked them already. But what really struck me was the cute girl on the sofa who shyly admitted that she reads my blog. What?! Instant friends. And it turns out, she is a very talented singer/songwriter with a beautiful songbird voice.

Last week, Ashley Brooke Toussant played at the Professor’s Pub in Kent, Ohio, so of course Phil and I simply had to head out and listen for a spell. I must tell you, Ashley is as cute as a button, as sweet as pie, and whatever word you choose to liken to lovely. I also admire her design taste. Check out her gig posters designed by Christian Woltman. (J. Annie Williams collaborated with them on the second poster.)

And I know you will love her little suitcase display she had set up along with Anna Vogelzang, the other amazing songstress who performed a set before Ashley.

Anna came all the way from Wisconsin to entertain us in Kent, Ohio. And entertain she did, with her rich voice and quick wit.

Ashley’s fanclub of man and friends came out to show their support, and, of course, enjoy the music. They looked like a fun bunch, and I really wish I wasn’t so frightfully shy, or I would’ve probably made fast friends. It’s a true story, that I’m simply not outgoing. Most people don’t believe this of me, because I put up quite the front, I suppose. I think I am actually most shy around people with whom I would most like to become friends. But Ashley is one of those easy going girls who puts you right at ease. And we’re from the same hometown, so I think there’s instant camaraderie that comes with such things.

Enough blabber already! This is the chattiest post I have written in quite a while. I suppose all I have left to say is that Phil and I enjoyed a night out and I loved a chance to relax with my man, my Magic Hat (I told you I have a thing for hats! ha!), and some seriously swell musicians. Be sure to check out Ashley’s tour dates and definitely head on over to download her EP All Songs in English.

Outfit details (for good measure):

blouse: thrifted Salvation Army (Canton, OH)

jacket: suede blazer thrifted Vilage Discount Outlet (Cuyahoga Falls, OH)

hat: vintage from Hidden Pearl (Cuyahoga Falls, OH)

shoes: thrifted Salvation Army (Canton, OH)