DIY Potential–Ikea’s New Product Line

August 22, 2016

Besides thrift stores, Ikea is one of the best sources for DIY items. If you follow any DIY or craft bloggers, I’m sure you’ve seen them transform an item or two from Ikea.

When I got the 2017 Ikea catalog in the mail last week, I filled through the pages. While there didn’t appear to be a lot of new items, I did spot quite a few pieces that would make for great DIY projects.

DIY INSPIRATION FROM THE 2017 IKEA CATALOG

The Gladom Tray Table is just begging for a DIY UpStyle. I envision this piece painted gold, black or even Hermes orange. And if you love color, you could paint the removable tray one color and the stand another. $29.99

Th $35.00, the Lixhult Cabinet is a super affordable way to add storage to any room. Those doors a begging for some Overlays and I’ve even consider adding brass leg caps.

The Knotten Standing Desk is a great catch-all piece to place near the front door or in a mud room. And to Upstyle it, I’d paint it grey and add a marble slab top. $149.00

There are many creative ways to DIY this StenStorp Kitchen Island. I’d start by staining the top darker and painting the base. Then I’d add this brass towel bar to one side to hold kitchen towels. $399.00

The Vesken Shelf Unit is a great buy at $12.99 and would be perfect for a small bathroom that needs extra storage space. I could see this piece painted and the trays lined with beautiful paper.

The Norraker Bar Stool would be easy to paint or stain and then I’d Upstyled it with an upholstered seat cushion and a cup pull mounted on the back. $99.00

I can easily envision the Flisat Children’s Stool painted primary colors for a kids play area. But then again, it could also be painted a more sophisticated color and used as a small plant stand in a living room. $14.99

Have you had time to flip through the new Ikea catalog? I’d love to know what great pieces caught your eye.

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!

Design Crush: Profiling Jenny Wolf Interiors

August 18, 2016

Jenny Wolf

Do you love looking through the portfolios of interior designers as much as I do? Recently I came across the work of Jenny Wolf, a New York based interior designer and was utterly impressed with her design work. Jenny grew up living in New Orleans and on the coast of South Carolina and eventually made her way to New York where her design career began. After landing in NY, she worked in retail development for Ralph Lauren (dream job) where she managed visual merchandising and shop installations for RL women’s shops. After a 5 year stint at RL, she left to attend Parsons where she earned her degree in Interior Design.

Flipping through Jenny’s website, is it clear that her design aesthetic reflects a co-mingling of southern flair with big city style.

Here’s a look at one of my favorite projects from her portfolio.

♦ Jenny Wolf Interiors–The Hubert ♦

As you tour this home, you’ll notice simple and classic styling infused with beautiful detail. The trim on the curtain panels and the nail-heads on the sofa are little touches that make the decor special.

I love the cozy arrangement Jenny created in this the living area and the eclectic mix of materials and design styles. The accessory mix is perfection.

The ‘X’ benches are to die for.

Throughout the home, Jenny combined different textures with the furniture, rug, textiles and accessories. All of the textural elements in the dining area bring the neutral palette to life.

The bedroom is soothing and fun at the same time. Pattern mixing adds color and personality. I love the combination of red and navy mixed with khaki and white.

A textural statement was also added in the bedroom through the linen lampshades, bamboo chest, natural woven rug and linen curtains.

And throughout the house, you’ll see accents of black which help to add that city sophistication.

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Another one of her projects that really stood out to me is the Hudson Street project. This decor in this home is the perfect mix of cottage, boho and traditional design. You can tour the entire home here.

I’m so glad I discovered Jenny’s work. The spaces she creates are beautiful and inspiring and she is definitely one to watch.

You can view Jenny’s entire residential portfolio here and her commercial work here. And be sure to follow her on Instagram for more design & style inspiration.

all images via Jenny Wolf Interiors

Design Guide: Every Room Needs A Touch of Black

August 4, 2016

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When it comes to design rules, some rules hold more weight than others. Some rules like the ‘ideal placement for furniture’ or ‘throw pillows need a karate chop’ are flexible and can and should be adapted based on personal preference and the function of a space. Then there are rules that I think are essential to good design. One of the rules I believe in whole-heartedly is… every room needs a touch of black.

Explaining the logic behind this design rule is pretty simple. We all know that color is a powerful thing in design and the color black is one of the most important design colors you can use.

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…

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Back-To-School Shopping–The Adult Version

August 2, 2016

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This past weekend was a big back-to-school shopping weekend here in Atlanta. It was a tax-free weekend and most school are starting back this week or next so shopping had to get done.

Even though I knew the stores were going to be crowded, I ventured out for a few hours to see if there were any deals to be had. And boy or boy were there.

I never really took note of it before but shopping during the back-to-school season has its benefits. Most of the big box stores like HomeGoods, Target and Macy’s had beefed up their inventory levels and had some great decorative pieces to decorate dorm rooms. Not only were the prices good, but many of items could work just as easily for home decor.

p.s. if you haven’t noticed, dorm decor has really become style statement these days. Far from the posters I hung on the wall.

So I know you’re asking yourself what does this mean for all of us that aren’t going off to school.

It means back-to-school season is a great time to shop for home decor items.

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Here’s a list of home decor products that are worth shopping for NOW during back-t0-school season and some great pieces you might want to snag:

Bed Linens–there are lots of fun patterns including plaids, stripes and geometrics out for back-to-school.
Organizing Items–I spotted lots of amazing baskets and cloth storage bins as well and space-saving door and under-bed storage pieces.
Office Decor–caddies, trays, boxes and bins plus lots of cute bulletin boards and wall units.
Lighting–especially tabletop and desk lamps many of which are priced better than those styles marketed for home decor.
Accent Furniture–if you’re in the market for a small side table, ottoman, pouf or stools, you’ll find lots to choose from.
Bathroom Decor–great under cabinet pieces, towels and vanity accessories.

Shop these looks:

Palm Leaf Quilt //Modern Anywhere Chair // Two Head Task Lamp // Faux Marble Clock // Enchante Wall Storage Bin

Wood and Metal Storage Boxes // Rope Medallion Pillow // Enchante Pillow // 2 Drawer Accent Table // Claudette Wire Hamper

Did anyone else find any great home decor deals while school shopping?

Behind The Blog: Thistlewood Farms

July 28, 2016

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Do you read the blog, Thistlewood Farms? If you do or have had the pleasure of meeting KariAnne in person like I have, you know why I wanted to include her in my Behind The Blog series. I’ve been reading KariAnne’s blog for a few years and I’m totally captivated by stories, inspired by her projects and energized by her spirit.

I had the pleasure of meeting KariAnne at the Haven Conference a few years ago and just like she comes across on her blog, she had a big smile on her face, was rocking some red lipstick and had a warm and genuine energy about her. Using one of KariAnne’s favorite words, Thistlewood Farms is a ‘rock star’ blog, written by a rock star person and I’m thrilled to feature her on the blog today.

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Let’s start by first telling us a little about the Thistlewood Farms blog. When did you start blogging and what inspired you to start your blog?

I started blogging in December of 2011. I finished remodeling the farmhouse (wait….pause….are you ever really finished?) and I wanted to be part of a creative, unique, engaged community. So I started a blog to connect with the DIY/home decor community.

Your blog is so refreshing, inspiring and personal. How would you describe your writing style and what do you enjoy most about blogging?

I write just like I talk. Seriously. Like I just interrupted this question. I didn’t mean to. I was just so excited about answering that I totally interrupted. And now back to the rest of the question. I enjoy the photography and learning new skills. And the readers? They are truly my favorite.

Running a successful blog and business isn’t easy. Any advice you can share with someone wanting to build their blog into a business?

Write the type of blog you want to read. Truly. If you like stories, write them. If you like beautiful pictures, take them. If you like painting pink flamingos and decorating your lawn, embrace the project. 🙂

What’s a typical day like at Thistlewood Farms for you?

I start after the kids go to school, typically about 8:00. And coffee. I always start with coffee. I post about five times a week, so I get the post ready for the day and answer e-mails. Then more coffee. In the afternoons, I usually style the post and photograph it. Then the kids come home from school and I listen to all the day’s gossip. Sometimes I edit photos while the gossip is going on. Then I usually have an event with the kids and go to bed and start all over again.

How would you describe your design style? Has it evolved over the years?

I like farmhouse. Wonderful, glorious, industrial, chippy, farmhouse. I’ve gone from neutral to color to neutral again, but farmhouse remains the constant.

You can tour KariAnne’s home here. Warning–you may want to move in!

You’ve partnered with Hoffman Fabrics to develop your own fabric line which launched at the beginning of the year. Tell us a little about it and where your inspiration comes from.

The newest collection is called Simply Eclectic and I was inspired by all things farmhouse (no surprise if you are visiting from the previous question). I wanted it to feel at home if Laura Ingalls Wilder or the Queen of England came to visit, so it has a little bit of country and a little bit of elegant.

Which room in your home is your favorite and why?

I love the kitchen. I don’t cook, but it’s the best room in the house. It’s where all the problems of the world are solved.

What is the most treasured piece in your home?

There’s a table in my kitchen that I got at a yard sale in the middle of a flood. It is the best $20 I have ever spent.

You create some amazing DIY projects. What’s your favorite material to work with?

I like paint. I think that paint is the easiest and most inexpensive way to transform a space. You can create faux finishes or stripes or simply change the color. All for under $50

You can check out all of KariAnne’s DIY projects here.

If you could lunch with any famous woman, who would it be and what’s one burning question you’d ask her?

I would go to lunch with Joanna Gaines. And I would ask her about her farmhouse and if she likes the color SW Mindful Gray.

Tell me one or two things that are on your bucket list?

Visit England
Canoe the Cumberland River
Learn to knit

It’s time to share a few of your favorite things…

Favorite Color: Gray (obvi)

Favorite Movie: Steel Magnolias

Favorite Flower: Hydrangea

Favorite Food: Broccoli

Favorite Splurge: Anthropologie Candles

And I just had to throw this one in…favorite red lipstick color?

Fresh (it’s from the dollar store)!

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A big hug to KariAnne for stopping by the blog today and sharing a bit of her world with all of us.

If you don’t follow KariAnne’s blog, Thistlewood Farms, I highly recommend that you do. It is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and brighten your day. And mark your calendars because KariAnne is working on her first book which will be released next fall. I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy and I’m hoping she’ll invite me over for a glass of sweet tea so I can have her write a rock star message inside my book!

Summer Entertaining: Ideas to Inspire

July 27, 2016

SUMMER ENTERTAINING IDEAS

Outdoor entertaining takes on new meaning this time of year. Finding new ways to use pieces you already own & incorporating the bounty of the season will help make entertaining outdoors even more fun and exciting.

♦ Put on twist on a caprese salad by replacing the tomatoes with sweet Georgia peaches.

♦ Use oversized glass jars as serving bowls for salads and fresh fruits. Jars allow food to be visible while adding impact to your buffet setting.

♦ Instead of expensive flowers for the centerpiece, let the food be the focal point. A long wood board piled high with a variety of cheeses, fruits, meats and nuts will be the center of attention.

♦ Get creative with the things you own. A recycled canoe makes a charming outdoor serving station of finger foods.

♦ Place those delicate china plates with small rustic wood cutting boards which function just a good as traditional serve ware.

♦ Keep thing simple but elegant and create personalized place setting with oversized dollies. Use a Sharpie to pen the name of guests or pull out that collection of letter stickers and give each dollie its unique spin.

♦ Use elements from mother nature as decor for your party. A handful of pretty leaves and a metallic pen is all it takes to make these stylish name cards.

♦ Make a single bouquet of flowers go the extra mile by mixing in greenery pieces you cut from the yard to create a dynamic centerpiece.

♦ And when impact is called for, drape the center with an assortment of summer lanterns surrounded by lush greenery and foliage.

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Summer entertaining is about letting loose, having fun and enjoying the season!

Image source: 1) Say Yes 2) Crate and Barrel 3) Plum Pretty Sugar 4) Simple Bites 5) Style Me Pretty 6) Paper Mart 7)La Crema 8) Wedding Colors 9) Elle Decor (photo by Jenna Elliott–One Eleven Photography)

SEVEN things I’d by during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

July 25, 2016

Hey there friends. Sorry I skipped out last week here on the blog but things have been extra busy and I just didn’t have time (or energy) to complete all the blog post I had planned for you. My busy schedule included 5 days at the Atlanta Gift and Home Furnishings show followed by two days at the Blog Life University Conference and I’m tuckered out. I’ll be sharing more about the gift show and the conference later this week but today I’m sharing one of my favorite shopping events of the year, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

When I lived in Seattle, I actually planned a couple of vacation days around the sale so I could be at the flagship store the day the sale went live. I didn’t want to miss out on any of the deals. Now I shop my local Nordstrom or when I don’t want to deal with the crowds, I hit their website. That’s just what I did Saturday afternoon while I crashed on the couch.

There are so many great items in this years sale but a few really caught my eye and I just had to share them with you.

Here are my top picks from the sale…

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A classic backpack is a handbag staple in my book. They are great for traveling and weekend shopping when you want your hands free. I love the sleek lines of this Sole Society Ellie Backpack and the tassel charm on the flap. And you can’t beat the $29.90 price.

Cardigans are my go-to fashion item during fall and this Halogen Cashmere Kimono Cardigan has so much going for it. I love the oversized fit, the soft drape and the fact that is it cashmere. This piece is available in three colors and is on sale for $98.90. ($148 after sale)

I never met a tassel I didn’t like, especially if it’s an earring. These Sole Society Tassel Earrings are such fun and will look great with sweaters this fall. $36.95

The combination of the cord necklace and crystal pendant is what caught my eye. This is a perfect piece to wear day-to-night and with everything from jeans to dresses. Bauble Bar Bijoux’ Pendant Necklace $42.00

I’ve been wanting this Jonathan Adler Zebra Porcelain Stacking Dish for ages and couldn’t pass up the $15.90 price and my new favorite color, navy. The gold version is also available but at a higher price.

In addition to clothing and shoes, you can find some great home decor items in the Nordstrom Sale. This Levtex Diamond Straw Basket is perfect to hold blankets or just about anything you want. $38.90 Available in natural & navy and natural & tan.

An oversized sweater and jeans is the perfect fall outfit in my book. This Halogen Ribbed Cashmere Poncho has a great shape and subtle ribbed texture. Available in 4 colors. $148.90

So now that I’ve got you ready to do some shopping, here are some tips I’ve learned from shopping the sale for many years…

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Insider Tips For Shopping The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Shop early! I can’t stress this enough. Many items will sell out within the first few days of the sale so plan to do your shopping early. p.s. this years sale ends on Aug. 4th.

Did you know that Nordstrom has personal stylist to help you shop? This free service is great if you’re needing special pieces or want pulling together outfits. You can schedule an appointment or ask for an available stylist when you’re at the store. p.s. the stylist have all the inside tips on products and can often find items that are sold out in your area.

For even better deals than you can find in the main for jewelry and accessory department, shop the Brass Plum department. You can find the latest styles and designs at a fraction the price. This tassel handbag didn’t make my top 7 list but is definitely a great buy.

If you’re stocking up on fall clothing, purchase the items you’re interested in, take them home to try on them on and return what you don’t want. The dressing rooms are typically crowded during the sale so take items home so you can try them on in the comfort and space of your own bedroom.

If your local store doesn’t have the size or color you want, a Nordstrom sales person can order the item for you at no shipping cost.

Nordstrom offers samples of almost any beauty product in store every day. During the Anniversary Sale you’ll find limited-edition offerings, plus 300 beauty and fragrance exclusives so just ask for a sample at the counter.

Think Christmas gifts. This is a great time to buy higher priced items and save a little money, especially on handbags, footwear and mens clothing.

Happy shopping!