Beyond

Holiday Gift Guide | For Decor Lovers

December 12, 2017

Happy Tuesday friends! It’s Holiday Gift Guide day here on the blog and today’s guide is extra special. Not only have I rounded up decor gifts that will be perfect for the decorator on your Christmas list, but I’m sharing a few decorating tips for each item! There are 11 items in today’s gift guide and every single one is something I’d love to own (or do). And I’ve included price-points ranging from $12.99 all the way up to $159 but most of the items are under $50. Happy shopping!

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DECOR GIFTS UNDER $50

1 // Here’s proof that stylish home decor items don’t have to be expensive. These Pierced Lanterns are just $12.99 for the set of 2. Plus they are perfect for decorating during the holidays or anytime of the year. design tip: transform a decorative lantern into a flower vase by simply dropping a clear glass vase inside the lantern to hold flowers.

2 // Animal Print Velvet Pillow — I’ve seen this pillow at my local TJMaxx and its gorgeous. It’s lush and the 22″ X 22″ size ($39.99) is perfect as an accent pillow on a sofa or bed. It’s also available in a 14″ x 26″ size ($29.99). design tip: animal prints are a classic design element that will never go out of style.

3 // After seeing this Etched Glass Globe in Dear Lillie’s home office, I had to have it. It’s a unique decorative piece that will make a great gift for guys or gals. And it’s on sale for $34.99. design tip: don’t relegate globes to the home office, they make a nice decorative statement as part of a tabletop vignette.

4 // I used these Acrylic Candle Holders on a client’s fireplace mantel and they are stunning. The brass base and acrylic stem create the perfect mix of traditional and modern styling. Two sizes–small $34.00 and large $41.00. design tip: using candle holders in different sizes will add depth and dimension to a candle arrangement. But if your pair of candle holders are the same height, use pillars or taper candles in different heights to create the same dimensional effect.

CLASSIC DECOR GIFTS

5 // Have you noticed how hard it is to find stylish bud vases? Well, I’ve found the one! This gorgeous Clear Mini Glass Vase is fluted and looks much more expensive than its $5.99 price. design tip: A grouping of single bud vases down the middle of dining table can have just a much impact as a large floral arrangement. And bud vases are great at each individual place setting.

6 // I absolutely love this Rattan Ice Bucket. It’s casually chic and would look great on a bar cart or in a butler’s pantry. $59.50 design tip: ice buckets also make great flower vases! Here’s a great example.

7 // There’s not much from Serena & Lily that I don’t love. I’d use this Bedford Tray as part of a coffee table arrangement. $148.00 design tip: if your tray has an open weave bottom, have a piece of clear acrylic cut to fit so the tray becomes functional for serving.

UNIQUE & CHIC DECOR GIFTS

8 // I own this Faux Fur Soft Throw Blanket and can’t begin to tell you how soft it is. It’s available in three colors but this grey is my favorite. $59.99 d design tip: when not in use, drape throw blankets over the backs of chairs or across a footstool as a decorative statement.

9 // I just adore this blue and white Tassel Cachpot from Wayfair and hope Santa brings it my way for Christmas. $159.99 design tip: planters are not just for plants. Oversized planters make great containers for magazine, blankets or towel storage in a bathroom.

10 // Magnifying glasses like the Zamora Magnifier Glass are a fun accessory to add to a coffee table or bookshelf vignette. And they are a good men’s gift too! $49.95 design tip: group three or more similar items together to create an instant collection. Check out this grouping of magnifying glasses.

11 // How cute is this White Elephant Match Holder? Pair this with your favorite candle and you’ve got an awesome gift anyone would love. $38.00 design tip: whenever you’re shopping for decorative accessories, think about additional ways an item can be used. This match holder could be used as a flower vase, ring holder or vanity accessory in the bathroom.

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That’s it for today! I’ll be back tomorrow for the finale of the Merry & Bright Holiday Home Tour so be sure to stop by. I’ll be sharing the rest of my holiday decor with you. Here’s a little sneak peek…

Holiday Gift Guide: For The Fashionista

November 14, 2017

I love shopping and during the holidays I’m can spend hours online and in stores searching for the perfect gift. And more times than not I’ll find a few things for myself too. That’s the case with today’s Holiday Gift Guide which includes many items I’d love to find under my tree on Christmas morning. But, it’s not about me so here’s my gift guide for the fashionista in your life with prices starting at just $12. Happy shopping friends!

I’m always cold so I know I would get lots of use out of this Faux Fur Wrap. It’s perfect for layering under a coat or wearing with a chunky sweater. And its long enough to drape around the shoulders and wear it like a stole. This cutie is available in black, blush, dark navy (such a pretty color) and lt. brown. $69.95

Zara is my go-to shopping source when I’m looking for a budget-friendly fashion handbags. They have so many cute styles right now but the The City Bag with Faux Fur caught my attention. Its perfect the for winter and when spring rolls around the faux fur liner can be removed making it a year-round bag. $55.90

Cute earrings are my kryptonite especially when they’re under $20. These 3-drop Fabric Lined Earrings are just $15.90 and would look just as great with jeans and a sweater or with a black party dress.

I love giving personalized gifts and this Flowering Monogram Pouch from Anthroplogie is definitely on my personal gift giving list. It’s an ideal size to hold coins, credit cards or a few beauty essentials. $38.00

Pom Poms + slides…sounds like match made in heaven. These adorable Pom Pom Slides are a fun party shoe and an easy way to add a pop of fun to an everyday outfit. I think these are going to sell out pretty quick so don’t hesitate. $68.00

Along with earrings, stylish handbags always stop me in my tracks. I love the plush texture and patchwork design of this Fabric Tote which perfect for fall and winter. $59.90

Ok friends, this really is the Ultimate Tassel Earring Set! What makes this set so amazing is that the tassels are interchangeable. You can mix and match the colors however you like to create over 100 color combinations. $72.00 (orig. price $248)

You know these Fleece Lined Sock with Pom Pom from UGG are going to be warm and cozy. They are available in 4 colors. $49.50

I use a lot of Clinique products and they have the best holiday gift sets. For just $12.00 this Party Pops Lipstick Set will make a great gift for a girlfriend, co-worker or as a stocking stuffer.

Cozy and cute is how I’d describe these Faux Fur Earmuffs with Headphones. Definitely a gift for the girl who has everything. Also Available in olive. $88.00

Tassel necklaces are one of my favorite jewelry trends and this Long Tassel Necklace is my new fave. Perfect for causal and dressy wear. $44.00

How To Burn A Candle The Right Way

October 23, 2017

I’ve always loved to burn candles but for years I was burning them the wrong way. It wasn’t until I started working in the home decor industry that I learned the right way to burn a candle.

Are you one of those people who burns a candle and finds half the wax still in the jar once the wick has burned down? Well, you’re not alone. There a lots of people who don’t know how to burn a candle the right way. Today I’m sharing candle burning tips so you can get the most out of your favorite candle scent.

Candle Burning Tips & Tricks

Trim the wick

This is one of the most important things you can do when you’re burning any type of candle. Trimming the wick produces a cleaner burn and prevents soot build-up around the jar opening. An untrimmed wick can result in smoke and the wick flaring and mushrooming at the tip. For the initial burn and before every burn thereafter, you want to trim the wick to 1/4 inch long.

Burn the wax all the way across the top

The first time you burn your candle is the most important since it will determine how the wax will burn for the life of the candle. For the first burn, burn the wax all the way across the top of the candle. The wax should be liquid from edge to edge. It may take several hours for the full melt to occur so be patient. If you fail to let the wax melt all the way across the candle, the wax will create a tunnel in the center of the candle. The diameter of the ‘tunnel’ will not increase over time and all of the wax beyond the outer edge of the tunnel will be wasted.

tip: it takes approximately 1 hour of burn time for every 1” inch in diameter for the entire surface of a candle to become liquid

Don’t over-burn candles

In most cases, candles should not be burned for more than 4 hours at a time. Extended periods of burning can result in a flared wick and soot build-up. Once your candle has burned for a few hours, blow out the flame and let it cool for 2 to 3 hours before trimming the wick and re-lighting it.

Keep the flame away from vents and moving air

If your candle flame is being impacted by moving air, the air will cause the candle to burn unevenly. This is especially true with taper candles resulting in heavy wax drips down the sides of the candle. Try placing a jar candle inside a large glass vase or open container to reduce the amount of air that comes in contact with the flame.

Sometimes two wicks are better than one

If you need an extra wide candle for a candleholder or vase, look for a candle with more than one wick. A wide candle with a single wick will never produce enough heat for the wax to fully melt across the top so you’re destined to get a tunnel. The more wicks a candle has, the more heat it will generate and the faster the wax will melt.

Put a lid on it

An easy way to preserve the intensity of fragranced candles is by putting the lid back on the jar when you aren’t burning it. Exposing an open candle to prolonged periods of air can reduce the strength of the fragrance over time.

Stop the burn when the wax is approximately 1/2 inch from the bottom of the jar

When the wax is approximately 1/2 inch from the bottom of the jar, the heat at the bottom of the jar can actually burn the surface it is sitting on. If there is only a 1/2″of wax left in the jar, you’ll want to throw the candle away.

If the candle comes in a jar that you want to keep, there’s an easy way to remove the wax. Once the wax is cool, place the jar in a pan and fill the pan with hot water. The hot water will soften the wax so you can break it up with a knife. Once the wax is out of the jar, fill the jar with soap and water to remove any residue. Then place the jar in the dishwasher to get it sparkly clean.

Now that you know all my candle burning tips, here’s a round-up of my favorite fall candles (affiliate links included).

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FAVORITE FALL CANDLE SCENTS

BathandBodyWorks Leaves // Votivo Red Currant // Nest Cedar Leaf & Lavender // Voluspa Baltic Amber

Thanks for stopping by the blog today. I hope you found these tips helpful. If you have a favorite fall candle scent, please leave me a comment so I can check it out!

Affiliate links used for your shopping convenience. I may earn a small commission through these links at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting ConfettiStyle to keep great content coming!

New House Diary: Master Bedroom Design Plan

October 20, 2017

Hi friends. I’ve decided to start a new series here on the blog called New House Diary. The new series document the decorating journey of our new home. I’ll be sharing the design plans as well as before and after photos so you can see the spaces come to life. I’ve already shared the design plans for the office and the living room and today I’m sharing the plans for our master bedroom.

We’ve been in the house for two months and are moving at a snail’s pace when it comes to decorating. We have yet to hang artwork or curtains and we’re still waiting for our new sofa to arrive. Fingers crossed it will be here next week!

When we moved, I made the decision to take my time decorating. That decision has been both good and bad. The downside is that we’re still unloading boxes and trying to get closets, cabinets and drawers organized. The positive thing is that taking my time is helping me make the right design decisions.

Here’s a look at our master bedroom the day we closed on the house. The carpet was in desperate need of replacing and the paint colors were not at all appealing to me.

The bedroom is a good size but there aren’t many options when it comes to arranging the furniture.

Here’s the space plan for the room…

I want for the room to have a calm, sophisticated and warm look and feel so that’s what inspired the colors and design plan.

The walls are painted a soft grey, Whisper by Benjamin Moore and I absolutely love the color. All of the trim is BM Simply White (semi-gloss) and the doors are BM Black Satin also in semi-gloss. I’ll be introducing darker grey through some of the accent fabrics the fabrics which will give the space more depth.

We already own most of the furniture for the room but are purchasing a couple of new pieces to complete the space. And I’ve got new linens and decor on my shopping list too.

Master Bedroom Design Plan…

To add dimension and visual interest to the neutral color palette, I’ll use patterned pillows and textured linens. The neutral foundation will also make it easy to change the look seasonally, adding more color during the warmer months.

The plan is for velvet curtains and to use velvet on a bench that I’m having recovered. Brass lighting will add a touch of shine and glam within the room. I have one vintage brass lamp that I want to use on the nightstand and I’m hoping to luck upon a matching one at an antique or thrift store.

The pillows patterns I’m showing are the general direction that I want to go, using a plaid, floral and animal print together.

I’m planning to have our bedroom complete before Thanksgiving so stay tuned for the reveal.

Black Nightstand

Black Undredal Dresser (I’m planning to change our the drawer hardware)

Washed Percale Waffle Duvet Cover (also available in grey)

Charcoal Grey Plaid Pillow

Schumacher Linen Leopard Animal Print Pillow

Schumacher Pyne Hollyhock Pillow

Brass Chandelier

Charcoal Curtain Panels

Decorative Trim (similar here)

Upholstered Bench (I’ll be recovering one I already own)

Vintage Brass Lamp (similar here)

Medallion Rug

The 5 Most Versatile Decorative Accessories You Can Own

October 11, 2017

One of the things I noticed when we were packing and again as we’ve been unpacking is that I have an overload of decorative accessories. One reason for my ‘collection’ is a result of my profession as a designer and the other I blame on my need to change-up my decor on a regular basis.

As I’ve been unpacking, I’m trying to focus on keeping only those items that can be used in more than one area of my house and are the most versatile. Taking the time to analyze each accessory got me thinking about which decor pieces I consider essential when it comes to decorating. I’ve narrowed down the list to 5 items that I think are worth their weight in gold and wanted to share the list with you.

Decorative Boxes are not only pretty to look at but they are one of the most functional decor pieces you can own. They can be used for storage, to contain clutter or simply as a decorative element on a tabletop or bookshelf. One of my favorite uses for a decorative box is on a coffee table as part for a grouping of accessories. And you’ll always find a decorative box as part of my bedroom decor on my nightstand.

Drive By Decor

ConfettiStyle

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Ginger Jars were originally used to hold spices when they were being transported across Asia. Today ginger jars are one of the most popular and trendy decor pieces around. Because ginger jars are available in hundreds of different designs, colors and shapes, you can easily find a style that will work with your decor. I’m partial to blue and white designs but love the impact that colorful ginger jars add to a room. My favorite place to accessorize with large jars is on top of a bookcase or armoire, or next to a fireplace. And I love using small jars on bookshelves or kitchen counters.

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I didn’t realize how many Glass Hurricanes I owned until I started packing for our move. I own clear glass hurricanes in a variety of sizes and recently added a pair to tortoise hurricanes to my stash. I’m always burning candles in my home so I use small hurricanes throughout the year to hold candles so the flame is contained (learned that trick from Anthropologie). And during the holidays, I love using large hurricanes to hold ornaments or other holiday decor. And a hurricane makes a great vase for flowers or greenery stems.

Crate and Barrel

CrushCulDeSac

Country Living

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Studio McGee

I think the next item on my list is a pretty obvious one. A Decorative Tray is an essential decor piece and one that I think belongs in every home. Like ginger jars, trays come in all shapes, sizes and colors which makes decorating with them easy. On a nightstand, a tray can be used to hold jewelry and bedtime essentials. And on a coffee table, a tray adds a layer of style for holding smaller objects like candles, decorative objects or books.

Decor Pad

BelleMaison23

The Everygirl

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I must admit that I have a bit of an obsession with Decorative Bowls. Silver bowls, chinoiserie themed ceramic bowls and rustic bowls are my favorites for decorating. If you’re looking for an impact statement on your coffee or console table, a large bowl filled with decorative spheres or flowers is nice. And small bowls are a stylish way to hold matchboxes or trinkets on a tabletop.

HGTV

How To Decorate

Design Indulgence

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The details are not the details, they make the design!

—Charles Eames

When it comes to decorative accessories, not all decor pieces are created equal. There are some accessories that are classic, timeless and stand the test of time against design trends.

So what do you think of my list of essential decorative accessories? Is there an item or two that you’d add?

p.s. if I were to add another item, it would be books!

Favorites Of The Week {a little of this & a little of that}

August 19, 2017

This is going to be an exciting (and stressful) weekend. My brother is going to be setting up all of our electronic and computer stuff today (which always results in a few new gadgets) and we’ve got a little more packing to do. And tomorrow the movers come to move all our furniture. As of Monday we’ll officially be in our new house and the unpacking will begin.

Even though I didn’t manage to do a lot of blogging this week, I did find some down time to round-up my favorites of the week.

Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Liz Strong Style

Enjoy a few of my favorite links from the week…

Maybe the most gorgeous laundry room I’ve ever seen.

A great tutorial on How to Style Flat Lay Photographs. And don’t forget to pre-order KariAnn’s new book, So Close To Amazing. It’s fabulous!

Here’s a great design portfolio that will have you swooning. So many ideas!

It’s never to early to start Christmas shopping so check out all the goodies in this sale. I just ordered these and this.

A gorgeous dutch door.

Great tips for hanging wallpaper in a bathroom.

Are you ready for fall? This beautiful fall tablescape and fall decor might get you in the mood.

I just discovered this new online store which has everything from home decor to fashion.

My Take On The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale {and what I bought}

July 25, 2017

Have you been reading the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale recaps that have been popping up on blogs lately? For some, the Nordstrom sale is a big deal…a really big deal.

Nordstrom is based in Seattle and I lived and worked near their flagship store for 16 years. I’d anxiously await the first day of the sale and would take the day off from work to go shopping. Back then the idea of buying pre-season items at discounted prices thrilled me. Today…not so much.

Moving to Atlanta where summer temperatures can last well into September, I’m in no hurry to buy fall and winter items early. So now I shop the Anniversary Sale in a different way. I buy fashion accessories that I can wear year-round, I stock up on basics like tees and I take advantage of the deals on cosmetics. And to keep my gift closet fully stocked, I buy a few gift items too.

I did spent some time on the Nordstrom website and spotted a few things I liked. Then I made a visit to the store to see the items in person and make my purchases. Wanna see what I bought? Check it out below…

WHAT I BOUGHT AT THE NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE

I love a Long Open Front Cardigan and this one is a classic, light weight style that can be worn year round. During summer I’ll wear the cardigan with a tank and in the winter with a long sleeve tee. The cardigan is available in 7 colors and is a deal at just $49.90.

Every woman needs a basic cross body bag like this Pebbled Leather Crossbody Bag ($78.90). It’s a great size of daily use or travel and I love the roomy interior and outside zip pocket. Available in black and chino brown.

What’s not to love about this black and white striped Monogram Stripe Tote? Anything monogrammed is a winner in my book and the size of this tote makes is perfect for work or weekend. It’s available in red, green, blue and black with white stripes. $31.90

All of a sudden I’m into these modern necklace styles so I bought this Golden Crossing Necklace which is on sale for $35.90. I think it will be perfect to wear with tees and sweaters and will also look great under a blazer.

I’m loving the ruffle sleeve trend that is happening right now so this Bell Sleeve Cozy Fleece Pullover was a must have. The simple styling makes it easy to dress the top up or down and I loved the $39.90 price tag. And there are 11 colors to choose from. I’d recommend picking up a basic color like black or grey along with a fashion color like olive or burgundy.

I always keep candles in my gift closet so I bought the Voluspa Maison Blanc Two-Wick Candle Set. I’ve been a fan of Voluspa for year and for just $29.50 this is a great gift item. p.s. break the set up and you’ll have three gifts instead of one

These Floral Drop Earrings are so pretty in person and I just couldn’t resist them. Their from Bauble Bar and the colors and 3-d detail are what makes them so special. $48.00. Also available in a solid pink.

If I had to choose just one candle to live with for the rest of time it would be the Votivo Soziety Soy Wax Candle in Red Currant. The scent of this candle is amazing and it is one of the cleanest burning candles on the market. The Nordstrom sale is a great time to stock up and save. $21.90

I usually wear MAC eyeliner and buy my lip gloss at one of the big box stores but I wanted to try the Stila Stay All Day Liner & Lipstick after spotting them online. The eyeliner is fantastic and I love the tip which it easy for the eyeliner to glide on. The lipstick has nice coverage and nude pink color is very wearable by lots of skin tones. $20.00

You can shop the entire anniversary sale here.

Life Lately In 5 Photos {designing, shopping & reading}

July 24, 2017

Happy Monday! I hope you had a great weekend and were able to stay cool with the summer heat that’s plaguing the country. It was hot as blazes here in Atlanta and I feel like I drank about 10 gallons of water every day just to stay cool and hydrated.

My life has been a fast-moving train the last few weeks and I feel like a juggler with lots of balls in the air. But it’s all good stuff including a little secret I’ll be sharing on Thursday. For now, let me get you up to speed on some of the things that have been going on in my world and keeping me so busy.

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Life lately…

No. 1–This is the beginnings of a design plan that I’ve been working on and one that is very personal to me. The main floor of this home is an open concept with hardwood floors, white walls and a soft grey ceilings. The goal is to create a space that is sophisticated with traditional undertones and pops of color. I’m love where the design plan is going with grey and black as the foundation and a little animal print and brass to jazz things up.

No. 2–This fabric is for furniture for client who wants to spruce up her living room. The client found a sofa she loved at Haverty’s so we went shopping there the other night to pull together the fabric plan. The natural fabric will be used on the sofa and the navy will go on two accent chairs. And the abstract fabric is for pillows for the sofa. The iron side table with black granite top below will sit between the chairs.

p.s. Haverty’s has some nice accent furniture pieces at good prices if you’re doing some decorating.

No. 3–In route to an appointment the other day, I popped into one of my favorite consignment stores. It’s been a while since I’ve been thrifting and the thrill of the hunt hit me the minute I walked in the door. Right off the bat I found these two beautiful urns which were only $7.50 each. This was a major score because the urns are about 14″ tall and are in great condition. I also picked up this pretty brass bowl for $5.00.

No. 4–I’m sure you all have been seeing this bamboo purse on every fashion bloggers blog. I’ve wanted one ever since I first saw it but didn’t want to pay the over $100 price that most people were paying. After a little research, I found a great source on Ebay that sells both the small and the large size. And you won’t believe the price…the small is $32.99 and the medium is $34.99.

I have to tell you that I had never ordered from Ebay before so I was a little nervous about ordering this bag. And because the purse was shipping from China, I was nervous about the quality. The shop and the product had good reviews so I went ahead and placed the order and when it arrived, I jumped for joy. The quality is great and the purse is exactly as described. I love it so much that I just ordered the larger size in black.

p.s. I place my order on July 8th and my package arrived on Saturday, 7/21. Pretty fast coming from China and getting through customs.

No. 5–After an exhausting weekend, I took some time last night to flip through the July issue of BH&G. So many inspiring ideas starting with the cover image. I want those chairs, that coffee table and that ottoman. #ilovebamboo