Designer Looks You Can DIY On A Budget

October 12, 2016

Over the years, decorating on a budget has been the vogue thing to do. In fact, with the DIY movement that’s been made popular by bloggers, budget decorating is more achievable and affordable than ever.

Whenever I surf Pinterest, I marvel at some of the DIY hacks that people have done, many of which as been inspired by high-end designs. For those of you that want to save money when decorating and have some DIY skills, here are four high-end design hacks you should try. And I’ve rounded-up all the supplies you’ll need to recreate these looks.

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Autumn Decorating Idea–Fall Leaf Branches

September 26, 2016

Fall Decorating Idea: Fall Leaf Branches

Last week the hubby and I headed off on a road trip to visit my mom in Oklahoma. Our travels took us through three states and lots of countryside where I really started to notice the coming of fall. Trees are starting to turn, leaves are beginning to trickle to the ground and the warm, rich colors of fall are starting come alive.

One of the things that struck me on our drive was the simplicity and beauty of fall foliage. Since I don’t do a ton of decorating for fall, I’m loving the idea of a few fall leaf branches placed in a jar or vase. The leaves add color and texture, the branches create visual dimension and a natural touch like leaves makes any space feel more inviting.

Decorating for fall doesn’t get any easier than that!

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Clip and gather branches of brightly colored leaves and arrange them like flowers in a decorative vase. Clear containers let the beauty of the leaves stand out while colorful glassware creates a more modern look and feel.

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With so many varieties of leaves just outside your door, it should be easy to find a color that works with your décor.

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For a dramatic centerpiece, gather several large branches into a large vase or pot. Let the branches extend up and out to create a more organic arrangement.

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Large groupings of leaves can create a visual backdrop over a mantel just as a mirror or piece of artwork would do.

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If you like the idea of decorating with fall leaf branches, here are a few tips that will help your arrangements last:

Choose bright-colored branches that have not peaked in color
Clip branches with a sharp garden clippers
Remove 2 to 3 inches of bark from the end of the branch and then pound the end of the branch flat. This will help the branch absorb water better.
Place branches in a container with a mixture of 1/3 glycerin and 2/3 warm water. Branches should last for a couple of weeks.

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When it comes to fall décor, do you go all out or do you like simple touches?

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I’ll be back tomorrow to share some high-end designer looks you can hack on a budget.

Becoming An Expert Flea Market Shopper (5 books to own)

September 20, 2016

One of the things I love most in life is shopping flea markets. There is something exciting about looking for a hidden treasures amongst piles of dirty, dusty and cast-off relics.

Shopping flea markets isn’t something I’ve done all my life, I’ve only been treasure hunting for about the last 6 or 7 years. In that time I think I have become pretty savvy at vintage shopping, partly because I’ve taken the time read about, study and research the craft.

If you love flea market shopping and want to learn how to find the best collectibles and vintage pieces, I have 5 books I recommend you read. All of these books are filled with valuable tips on what to look , how to tell if an item has value and they highlight the best flea markets around the country.

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Because I’m a big fan of Better Homes and Gardens books, Flea Market Decorating was the first ‘thrifting’ book I purchased. Included in this book is a state-by-state listing of flea markets and antique fairs and well as tips on refurbishing your vintage finds. There is also loads of decorating ideas using real room settings with actual vintage items. The cover alone should entice you!

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I stumbled upon Flea Market Secrets in a thrift store and gave it my usual flip through to get a feel for the images. One of the best things about this book are the 10 Golden Rules of shopping flea markets that the author outlines. The rules are tried-and-true and things you’ll want to employ no matter where you shop. I also like that there are chapters dedicated to different types of items like glass, furniture, textiles and jewelry. Each chapter give you in-depth information on what types of items to buy, what to pass up and how to care for your treasures. You’ll also find the authors favorite flea markets around the world from Paris to Round Top, Texas.

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I remember when Lara Spencer first announced that she was writing a book of thrifting–I was so excited. I’m a big fan of Lara’s, have watched all her HGTV shows and love her design (and fashion) style. Her book, I Break For Yard Sales is one of the best out there and I love the fact that it combines flea market and thrifting tips with great design advice and inspiration. Page after page Lara shares her passion form shopping yard sales, thrift stores, estate sales and flea markets. You’ll learn her bargain hunting secrets and get insight from appraisers on what to look for when shopping.

You gotta love that Lara isn’t above dumpster diving for a treasure!

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Lara’s second book, Flea Market Fabulous expands upon her flea market shopping tips by showcasing nine rooms that have been decorated with thrifted pieces. The book walks you through the entire process of decorating with vintage finds, from creating a design plan to building a mood board. I also love the room illustrations and before and after photos of the DIY transformations Lara and her team pull off.

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And finally, my list of inspirational flea market shopping books would not be complete without Eddie Ross’ amazing book Modern Mix. When you want to take you flea market and antique shopping to the next level, this is the book that will guide you. Throughout the 8 chapters of the book you’ll find beautiful images of chic interiors, table settings, bars and parties created using vintage pieces. And along with sharing his secrets to shopping, Eddie will teach you how to expertly combine colors and pattern, mix old and new & curate a high and low mix within your decor.

“Modern Mix cracks the code to navigating thrift shops, yard sales and flea markets with confidence.”

And of course I had to share a few of my flea market shopping tips with you:

Have a list of items you’re looking for but be flexible. Shopping flea markets can be overwhelming and you can easily get side-tracked so it’s a good idea to have a list of ‘must have’ items to keep you focused.
Let your creativity flow. Whenever I’m out treasure hunting, I always stop and think about an item I’m interested in. I think about the different ways I could use it in my decor or how I could transform it into something else. Many of the items you’ll find shopping won’t be a perfect fit but with a little creativity and work they can be become real gems.
If you love it, buy it. We’ve all been there–spotting an item but then giving it too much thought and passing it by. Then we have buyers regret and go back hoping the piece is still there but sadly it’s not. I learned early in the game that if you love it and it fits your budget and needs then get it.
Negotiate. Flea market and vintage shop dealers are used to bargaining so don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. And remember the more items you buy from one dealer, the better your bargaining strength.

For even more flea market shopping tips, read my 10 Tips for Shopping Flea Markets Like a Pro post.

Happy hunting friends.

**this post contains affiliate links

Best of ConfettiStyle–Tablescapes

September 8, 2016

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Creating beautiful tablescapes is something I really enjoy doing. It’s always a challenge to see how I can mix and match my china, glassware and linens to create a new look. After years of decorating tables, I’ve learned that one of the best way to invest in table decor is purchasing decorative salad plates instead of dinner plates. If you own a set of white dinnerware, you’ll be able use your decorative salad plates to easily change the look from season to season. I hope you enjoy a few of the table settings I’ve shared here on the blog.

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Blue & White Tablescape

It’s not secret that I love blue and white chinoiserie decor so of course I had to create a tablescape inspired by blue and white. Its one of my favorite table settings to date. This pretty table also included two DIY projects, my easy monogram napkins and paint pen bowls which I just realized I never shared the tutorial on.

Read the full post here.

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Natural and Gold Fall Tablescape

Last year I pulled together a gold, off-white and grey tablescape for fall. It was the perfect mix of soothing fall colors with a touch of glam. I also wrote a post with tips on creating a fall table setting here. p.s. I’m going use the white pumpkins again this year but with a different color combo.

Read the full post here.

Thanksgiving Table For Two

In 2014 I pulled together a Thanksgiving tablescape to enjoy Thanksgiving eve with my hubby. I shopped my house and used items I had on hand to give the table an eclectic look.

Read the full post here.

Anatomy Of A Place Setting

One of the post I shared as part of my Anatomy Of series was all about creating beautiful place settings. It’s all in the mix and you can read the full post here.

Dots and Plaid–A Christmas Tablescape

I love creating a festive table at Christmas and I was thrilled with the way my dots and plaid table turned out.

tip: use wrapping paper as an inexpensive alternative to a cloth table runner.

Read the full post here.

I’m looking forward to styling my table throughout fall and holiday.

Creative Gift Giving–Stationery Box

August 19, 2016

If you’ve been reading the blog for a while or follow me on Instagram, you know I love beautiful stationery. I’m a sucker for the boxed notecards at HomeGoods and I’ve been known to handcraft my own monogram notecards.

As a business owner and lifestyle blogger, I make it a practice to send cards and notes to all my design clients and to new friends that I meet through blogging. I also love to give beautiful stationery as gifts.

Today I’m sharing a fun and stylish gift idea that’s easy to pull together, Monogrammed Stationery Suite!

The first thing you’ll need to do to create this stationery set is to compile an assortment of notecards. The perfect stationery suite should include thank you cards, blank note cards, blank or decorative tags and maybe even some decorative or monogrammed stickers.

Here are the items I included in my set:

DIY Monogram Notecard // Personalized Notepad // Monogram Stickers // Personalized Thank You Cards // Gift Tags (similar)

DIY Monogram Notecards // Personalized Notepad // Monogram Stickers // Personalized Thank You Cards // Gift Tags (similar)

tip: You may also want to include a pretty pen in the stationery suite so the gift recipient has everything they need to send notes.

Next, head to the store and pick up a small acrylic drawer unit. I purchased this one from HomeGoods for less than $8 but I also love this one from the Container Store.

Once all the items are pulled together, arrange them in each drawer so all the cards and stickers can be seen.

To personalize the top of the box, use these embroidered iron-on letters and simply glue them onto the top of the box.

tip: the initials are white when you purchased them but you can easily use a Sharpie to change the color like I did. I used this same technique when I made my DIY monogram straw hat.

DIY Monogram Stationery Suite

If you’re looking for unique stationery products, here are a few of my favorite sources:

Notecards, Thank You, Blank Notes

Stickers

Zazzle (the best source and prices for monogrammed stickers)

Washi Tape

Cute Tape

A personalized stationery suite is a creative gift to give for any occasion. And it’s a great gift for men who usually don’t keep stationery items on hand.

With the Christmas gift giving season just a few months away, get a jump on your gift giving and make up a few of these boxes for the special people in your life.

Happy Gifting!

Favorite Design & Entertaining Posts of the week!

July 30, 2016

I came across so much great design content on the web this week so today in my Saturday Favorites post, I’m sharing some of the goodness with you. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and sit back and enjoy. There’s lots of eye candy and inspiration coming your way.

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I’ve been a fan of lighting designer Barbara Cosgrove for years and loved this look into your beautiful home.

I like simple. I like form. I don’t like piddly little statements. If you’re going to do it, do it.
— Barbara Cosgrove

The art of layering your decor happens before your eyes.

These are the colors that are dominating the design world in 2016.

Life should be chic, glamorous and colorful, and so should your home.

–Jonathan Adler

Summer entertaining secrets and a beautiful table setting.

Celebrity designers spill their decorating tricks.

Be a ruthless editor of what you allow into your home. Ask yourselves, “what does this object mean to me?”

–Nate Berkus

No more ugly clay pots…especially when you can UpStyle them in a flash.

Enjoy your weekend friends.

Favorite Post, Pins and PROJECTS!

July 16, 2016

Hi folks, I’ve got a great round-up of links for you today with a little twist. Instead of sharing some of my favorite pins, this week I decided to share some easy and inspirational diy/craft projects for you to check out. I loved all of these projects so much that they have made it onto my ever-growing craft to-do list. Enjoy these links and most of all enjoy your weekend!

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FAVORITE POSTS

This is how to have fun and give back to others.

This home tour had me swooning…every inch of it.

My girl KariAnne shows you how to create really stunning centerpieces with these 5 unique centerpiece ideas.

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FAVORITE PROJECTS

This DIY Pom Pom Door Hanger is so fun and I can think of a million different ways to use it (ie: gift wrap, wine bottle charm, curtain tie-backs….)

I have a thing for mugs and this Alcohol Ink Project is a fun way to create your own designs.

This DIY Tassel project will make you want to add tassels to all your summer sandals.

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS

I just ordered this Crossbody Clutch and can’t wait to get it. And it’s on sale for $39!

Love these Hexagonal Pillar Candleholders. They are also available in a silver finish.

This Multicolored Striped Knit Bag would make a great weekend bag when out shopping. Don’t miss out on the $5.99 price.

The Chinoiserie Melamine Plates are selling quick so don’t hesitate to snag yours.

4th of July Decor Ideas to make in under an hour!

June 27, 2016

Decorating for a festive holiday can be fun and easy. Heres a round-up of simple but festive 4th of July decor that will take you less than an hour to create and don’t require any major crafting skills.

1) Scrap Fabric Flag–this fun twist of the American flag is made from scraps of ribbon, fabric and paint. Depending on where you want to hang it, you can make one in any size. I think one hanging on the front door or a couple of hanging for a deck railing would look great.

2) Make your own mini American flags using wood skewered and flag ribbon. These are great as a cake topper or to use in flower arrangements.

Flag ribbon is on sale for $2.00 per spool at Hobby Lobby.

3) This may not work for everyone depending on the temperature where you live but I love the look of the 4th of July candles. Just wrap red, white or blue pillar candles with decorative red/white/blue paper and you’re all set. After the 4th remove the paper and your candles are ready for the next project. p.s. scrapbook paper is 50% off this week at Hobby Lobby

4) Use that same decorative paper you used to wrap your candles and make your own paper pinwheels. These are so easy to make and are sure to bring back some great childhood memories. Find my tutorial here.

5) Turn inexpensive bandanas into a festive 4th of July flag banner. You can cut 3 to 4 triangle piece from a single bandana.

6) Another fun way to decorate with bandanas is using them as table linens. Line a handful up down the middle of the table for a quick and easy holiday runner.

7) Turn a watermelon into a stylish and fun 4th of July floral centerpiece. Punch small holes (about 1/2″ deep into the watermelon and insert flower stems. Once the party it over, cut watermelon open and scoop out some watermelon to enjoy.

So what plans do you have for the 4th and how are you decorating?

top image via Country Living

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Fall Decorating Idea: Fall Leaf Branches

“Modern Mix cracks the code to navigating thrift shops, yard sales and flea markets with confidence.”

**this post contains affiliate links

Blue & White Tablescape

Read the full post here.

Natural and Gold Fall Tablescape

Read the full post here.

Thanksgiving Table For Two

Read the full post here.

Anatomy Of A Place Setting

Dots and Plaid–A Christmas Tablescape

tip: use wrapping paper as an inexpensive alternative to a cloth table runner.

Read the full post here.

tip: You may also want to include a pretty pen in the stationery suite so the gift recipient has everything they need to send notes.

tip: the initials are white when you purchased them but you can easily use a Sharpie to change the color like I did. I used this same technique when I made my DIY monogram straw hat.

DIY Monogram Stationery Suite

I like simple. I like form. I don’t like piddly little statements. If you’re going to do it, do it. — Barbara Cosgrove

Life should be chic, glamorous and colorful, and so should your home.

–Jonathan Adler

Be a ruthless editor of what you allow into your home. Ask yourselves, “what does this object mean to me?”

–Nate Berkus

FAVORITE POSTS

FAVORITE PROJECTS

FAVORITE PRODUCTS

1) Scrap Fabric Flag–this fun twist of the American flag is made from scraps of ribbon, fabric and paint. Depending on where you want to hang it, you can make one in any size. I think one hanging on the front door or a couple of hanging for a deck railing would look great.

2) Make your own mini American flags using wood skewered and flag ribbon. These are great as a cake topper or to use in flower arrangements.

Flag ribbon is on sale for $2.00 per spool at Hobby Lobby.

4) Use that same decorative paper you used to wrap your candles and make your own paper pinwheels. These are so easy to make and are sure to bring back some great childhood memories. Find my tutorial here.

5) Turn inexpensive bandanas into a festive 4th of July flag banner. You can cut 3 to 4 triangle piece from a single bandana.

6) Another fun way to decorate with bandanas is using them as table linens. Line a handful up down the middle of the table for a quick and easy holiday runner.

7) Turn a watermelon into a stylish and fun 4th of July floral centerpiece. Punch small holes (about 1/2″ deep into the watermelon and insert flower stems. Once the party it over, cut watermelon open and scoop out some watermelon to enjoy.

top image via Country Living

I like simple. I like form. I don’t like piddly little statements. If you’re going to do it, do it.
— Barbara Cosgrove