Favorites Of The Week Vol. 58–Inspiration

June 17, 2017

Happy Saturday friends! I hope your week was good. I had a crazy week which actually felt more like a month. I’m hoping to enjoy a little downtime with weekend, do a little purging around the house and binge watch the new season of Orange Is The New Black. Enjoy this weeks favorites from around the web and have an amazing weekend.

♦♦♦

FAVORITE POSTS: DESIGN INSPIRATION

KariAnn’s home is especially beautiful during the spring and summer and I loved her summer decorating tips.

p.s I’m part of the book launch team for KariAnn’s new book, So Close to Amazing and all I can say is…it’s amazing. The book will be available Sept. 5th but don’t miss out and pre-order yours today.

via thistlewood farms

My brother-in-law has a pop up camper and after seeing this transformation, I want to buy it from him and fix is up.

via zevy joy

Holy cow, this kitchen is simply stunning, right down to the quirky piece hanging over the island!

via Style At Home

♦♦♦

FAVORITE PINS: INSPIRING WORDS

My high school yearbook motto was to “live without regrets”. I’ve tried to stay true to this throughout my life and this quote served as a gentle reminder.

via

Remember that you and only you are in control of your happiness, your success and your life.

via

Believe in YOU!

via

♦♦♦

FAVORITE PRODUCTS: ENTERTAINING INSPIRED

So many cute melamine plates at Target right now including these teal and yellow ones. Perfect for outdoor entertaining.

These acrylic tumblers are on sale for a great price right now. And they are available in 4 colors.

Just added these Blue Pagoda paper placemats to my shopping cart. Too cute!

Fabulous Summer Fashion Finds { all under $50}

June 13, 2017

I have a couple of trips planned in the coming months and needed a few new pieces of summer clothing. I don’t like to spend a lot of money on summer clothing and try to get the most bang for my buck. Good thing there are lots of great shopping options both in-store and online. Rather than hit the stores, I decided to dome shopping online and came across some fabulous finds, all under $50. From jewelry and dresses to tops and handbags, these pieces are ones you’ll want to check out.

Happy shopping!

SUMMER FASHION FINDS UNDER $50

One // Straw bags are a summer staples and this Braided Tote Bag from Zara is perfect because it mixes a casual vibe with a refined shape. And the pom poms just give it that special touch. $49.90 (fyi– this bag is generous it size so it’s perfect as an everyday handbag)

Two // Have you noticed that ruffled sleeves are the hottest fashion trend right now? You can hardly find a piece of clothing without them for summer. This Ruffled Sleeve Blouse with Lace is one of the cutest styles I’ve seen. $39.90

Three // Red and pink are my two favorite colors and when they are combined into something cute like this Striped Floppy Hat , I’m all in. $25.90 (I’m going to add a monogram to the brim like I did with this hat)

Four // I love these black and cream Lace Up Espadrilles. They are the perfect flat to wear with shorts or sundresses. $39.90

Five // Causal summer dresses are my thing during the dog days of summer. I’m loving this Embroidered Striped Dress because of its effortless style and boho vibe. $49.90

Six // This Animal Print Cross Strap Slide will be fun to wear with a sun dress, shorts or a romper. $35.00-$45.00

Seven // One of my favorite color combos for summer is red and turquoise. These Beaded Drop Earrings will add a pop of color to any summer outfit. $34.00

Eight // The gorgeous color and the sleeves on this Frilled Sleeve Dress just might make it the perfect dress for summer parties. $49.90

Nine // What’s not to love about this beautiful Coral Reef Necklace? Nothing! The style and color just scream summer. $48.00

Ten // I’m always looking for casual tops to wear with jeans and sneakers during the summer. The Marled V-Neck Hoodie is perfect for running errands or a walk in the park. $36.00

With so many great summer fashion finds under $50, you can get your shop on without breaking the bank.

Favorites Of The Week | Decorating & Entertaining

May 13, 2017

♦♦♦

I’m back with another round of favorite posts, pin and products to share with you. Enjoy!

♦♦♦

FAVORITE POSTS

A couple of days ago I shared a few of my favorite spaces from the One Room Challenge featured bloggers. Here’s one of my favorite makeovers from a guest participant, Design Enthusiasm. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times…the power of paint is amazing when you’re decorating !

This home tour shows you how to infuse an insane amount of decorating style into 650 sq. ft.

With Love From Kat

♦♦♦

FAVORITE PINS

One of my go-to sources for tabletop inspiration is Celebrations At Home. Chris creates some of the most beautifully style party and entertaining tables. This blue tablescape she styled for a bridal brunch is just so pretty.

When I think of a mountain retreat I envision a home that looks just like this.

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles

♦♦♦

FAVORITE PRODUCTS

I’m really trying to justify purchasing this gorgeous blue and white ice bucket by Aerin for William Sonoma. I mean after all it’s more than an ice bucket as demonstrated by Lucy of Craftberry Bush who styled it as a flower vase. #ineed

Have you checked out the Zara Home website yet? So many cute items for home and personal use. The bright pattern on this floral cosmetic bag caught my eye.

I just noticed that TJ Maxx has started to sell window valances in store and on-line. They have some nice designs and you can’t beat the price–$16.99. This Water Medallion Valance from Nicole Miller is one of my faves.

Have a fantastic weekend!

Inspiration Notebook | May 2017

May 4, 2017

You might have noticed that I didn’t share my inspiration notebook with you last month. Last month was a blur and I just didn’t have time to pull it together. Things are still crazy busy but I did manage to log an insert in my inspiration notebook this month. I enjoy taking the time to pull these pages together and recognize the things around me that provide inspiration.

When I looked at the calendar the other day, I couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that it is May. We’re almost half way through the year and I’m already exhausted just thinking about everything thing I want to accomplish before the year ends. While I can’t control the future, I can enjoy today so the pages in my notebook for May are filled with things I’m enjoying on a daily basis. Here’s a look at what’s inspiring me in work, home and my personal life. Enjoy!

♦♦♦

DESIGNING: I’m hoping that a new design client I’m working with will love this Gabby Clay Chandelier as much as I do. It’s the inspiration for the entire dining room.

READING: I couldn’t wait to find dive into this gorgeous entertaining book, Veranda Entertaining. It was everything I expected and more–beautiful images, inspiring ideas and drool worthy tablescapes. One of my top 10 design books ever!

RELAXING: I haven’t been sleeping well lately so I’m trying to make sure I spend time winding down at the end of the day. The Nest Blue Garden Candle is my go-to spring candle scent that helps me to relax and unwind.

INSPIRED BY: I’ve been seeing lots of floral arrangements in old wood boxes popping up on Pinterest. I love the look for a spring and summer tablescape.

LISTENING: Most days when I’m at my desk working I have jazz music or a podcast playing. The Clever Podcasts are a favorite and every episode has great takeaways for career and life.

CRAFTING: I love crafting and recently I’ve been drawn back to jewelry making in my spare time. One of my new sources for unique chain/hardware is my local lighting store for chandelier chain.

SHOPPING: We’ve got a cruise planned for early September and I’ve already started shopping for a dress to wear on formal night. I’m channeling my inner Carolina Herrera and thinking of pairing a crisp white shirt with this Red Floral Ball Skirt or this Black Floral Ball Skirt. Which would you choose??

LOVING: Just when I thought BaubleBar had it all they come out with these super cute Caicos Pom Pom Earrings.

CRAVING: Now that fruit season is here, I’m loving my morning meal–yogurt and fruit parfait. My ingredients include plain vanilla yogurt, granola, strawberries, blueberries and blackberries. Yum!

MAY INSPIRATION NOTEBOOK | 2017

♦♦♦

HIGH/LOW OPTIONS: Black & White Outdoor Umbrella

April 25, 2017

Creating an outdoor space that is as stylish as the interior of a home is something I strive for whenever I get the chance to design an outdoor living space. Here in the south an umbrella is an essential part of outdoor decor and can serve as a dominant design element.

In my latest high/low shopping post I’ve rounded up what seems to be a hot commodity for outdoor decorating– black & white striped umbrellas. Stripes are one of my favorite design details for a patio or deck and nothing beats a classic awning stripe design.

With temperatures on the rise and summer just around the corner, I’ve found four options to fit any budget. And you know I had to include some design inspiration for you as well.

♦♦♦

BLACK & WHITE OUTDOOR INSPIRATION

How pretty is this white furniture with a black and white umbrella? And the blue and white planter adds the perfect finishing touch.

source

If you love a colorful outdoor space, black and white is the perfect companion to add impact but not take away from your color statement.

source

Surrounded by lush landscaping, black and white adds a dramatic and sophisticated Parisian vibe.

source

Now that you’re inspired, let’s go shopping…

HIGH/LOW OPTIONS: BLACK & WHITE STRIPED OUTDOOR UMBRELLAS

♦ BUDGET FRIENDLY: The wide stripe Round Black and White Stripe Umbrella from CB2 is a great value at $69.95. It measures 108″ in diameter, is made of spun polyester and has a classic shape with no details or embellishments. If you’re looking for a budget friendly option with more style details, I’d check out this cute black and white gingham umbrella with fringe

♦ MODERATELY PRICED: Home Depot has upped their game when it comes to stylish outdoor decor and they too sell a black and white striped umbrella. The Italian Bistro Umbrella cover is made in Italy, measures 7.5 ft (90″) diameter, has a three-position tilt and a wind vent. And the simple scallop detail is kind of cute. Although a bit smaller than the other styles, the price is affordable at just $169.00.

♦ HIGH STYLE: Ballard Design carries a similar style umbrella with more designer details and a higher price tag. For $349 you get a 9′ diameter classic black and white stripe umbrella made from UV-blocking, fade resistant Sunbrella fabric. The umbrella also has a tilt feature which allows you to position it for maximum sun protection. Also available in a 11″ diameter and additional colors.

♦ DESIGNER FIND: If your budget allows here’s an umbrella that has a lot of design detail. The Daiana Two-Tier Umbrella has a pretty scalloped edge and the top tier adds a unique design detail. This oversized umbrella rings in at $489, measures 102″ diameter and is made of Sunbrella fabric.

source

I don’t think I’ll every get tired of black and white outdoor decor. What about you?

Favorites Of The Week {Spring Inspiration}

April 1, 2017

Happy weekend! Here’s my favorite links from the week.

♦♦♦

FAVORITE POSTS

How to find you niche and get paid for it.

These just might be the cutest garden markers I’ve ever seen.

Now this is a bathroom makeover! #gorgeous

♦♦♦

FAVORITE PINS

The wallpaper and mirror in this bathroom are just stunning.

How stinking’ cute and creative is this spring door arrangement?!

♦♦♦

FAVORITE PRODUCTS

I need these monogrammed gift tags in my life STAT!!! And these and these.

The pattern and colors on this geometric clutch are so fun.

This might be my new favorite spring candle. The White Camellia scent is heavenly!

I’ll see you back here next week. Until then, have an amazing weekend!

DIY Easter Candy Jars {Easter Gift Idea}

March 28, 2017

Welcome to part 2 of the Spring Thyme Recipes & Style Blog Hop hosted by my friend Tamyra at Positively Southern. If you’re coming over from Swirls of Flavor, welcome! I know you enjoyed Gwynn’s post as much as I did. Along with the other participating bloggers, we’re bringing you more spring and Easter inspiration today. I’ve listed all of the bloggers at the end of the post so make sure to stop by each blog and see what everyone is sharing.

Today I’ve got a fun and simple Easter gift idea for you.

One of the things you might not know about me is that I like to take the road less traveled. And when it comes to creative projects, I like to put my own twist on things. Take for instant Easter baskets. This year when it came time to make Easter baskets I wanted them to be unique. An ordinary woven Easter basket wasn’t going to cut it. This year I decided to create Easter Candy Jars instead of a traditional basket!

Medium Jar with Rope Handle {also available in small and large size} // Pink Stripe Ribbon // Green Dot Ribbon

Aren’t these the cutest candy jars ever? And boy are the easy to make.

Once the idea of Easter jars struck me, I headed to Hobby Lobby for glass jars. There were a lot of styles to choose from but these jars with a rope handle caught my eye. The jars come in three sizes and with my 40% off coupon the largest jar was less than $7.

sale alert: next week all the jars will be 50% off.

I filled each jar with Easter grass, a chocolate bunny and candy. And once that was done I tied a pretty ribbon on the handle.

Just think of all the ways you can customize an Easter Candy Jar by using different candies, ribbons and grass. And once the holiday is over the gift recipient can use the jar to hold a candle, pencils or whatever they want. #twogiftsinone

Part of the fun in creating unique gifts is giving them out. I can’t wait to deliver my Easter jars to friends and family so they can enjoy their special treat.

DIY EASTER CANDY JARS

Thanks for stopping by today and sharing in my ‘Spring Thyme’ fun. Next on the blog hop train is Tamyra at Positively Southern so head over and see how she’s bring spring style into her home.

Clutter Cafe (read part 1 here)
Viva La Vintage For Your Home (read part 1 here)
Swirls of Flavor (read part 1 here)
Confetti Style (read part 1 here)
Positively Southern (read part 1 here)
Totally Tailgates (read part 1 here)
M. Jones Style (read part 1 here)
Life at Lydia’s House (read part 1 here)
LindaG Loving Home (read part 1 here)

Spring Thyme | Recipes & Style Blog Hop

March 21, 2017

Spring is one of my favorite seasons. The weather is getting warmer, flowers are blooming and it’s almost time for picnics in the park and long evening walks. The coming of spring is such a mood booster for me and I’m just giddy that it is staying light outside until almost 9:00 o’clock.

Now that spring is here, I’m starting to see lots of spring blog tours popping up on the web. I don’t do much in the way of decorating for spring but I do love creating pretty seasonal tablescapes. And it just so happens that my friend Tamyra with Positively Southern is hosting a fun ‘Spring Thyme Recipe & Style’ blog hop and invited me join the fun.

There are a total of 9 bloggers on this tour and today is just part one of the blog hop. We’ll all be back next Tuesday (3/28) to share more spring style and recipe inspiration so mark your calendars.

If you’re coming over from Clutter Cafe, welcome. Lisa is one talented (and sweet) lady and a hard act to follow.

Whenever I plan a seasonal tablescape, I look for something to inspire the theme. Can you guess what my inspiration was for my spring Easter table? Rabbits of course! I spotted the rabbit beverage pitcher at HomeGoods and immediately knew I wanted to use it as a flower vase. #unexpecteddecor

Rabbit Pitcher (similar here )

Once I had the pitcher home, my color palette of green, pink and white fell into place and I went on the hunt for a green and white table runner. #fail.

After searching a few stores without any luck, I decided to make my own using inexpensive cotton fabric. The fabric is a soft green color with an all-over white lattice pattern. It’s exactly the design I wanted for my tablescape. Once I cut the fabric to size I used iron-on hem tape to finish the edges and had my runner done in about 10 minutes. And it cost me less than $10 to make the runner and 6 napkins. #score

Green and white fabric from Hobby Lobby

Flowers are always part of any tablescape I create so I surrounded the bunny pitcher with a mix of floral styles and colors. I combined hot pink orchids, white anemone, green hydrangea and pink peonies. The flowers are cascaded down the center of the table and add so much dimension to the centerpiece. Once I had the flowers in place, I tucked a few ceramic bunnies amongst the flowers to bring my Easter theme to life.

Noritake Ranier China // Bamboo Flatware // Green Ribbon

I opted not to use traditional placards on my table and instead did some hand-lettering on ombre tags I picked up at Michaels.

Ceramic Bunny–Target Dollar Spot

Did you notice the floral placemats under each place setting? Well it’s actually scrapbook paper I had in my craft stash. Scrapbook paper is the perfect size for a placemat and the floral pattern and colors worked great with my table decor.

Ribbon // Floral Paper //Noritake Ranier China

Whenever you build a tablescape you should create layers with your decor. I used the mini cake stands to add height and placed a small dip bowl on top filled with chocolate eggs for added color.

The white dinner plates are my mom and dad’s wedding china and I love the pretty etched floral design around the edge. It coordinates perfectly with my paper placemats. The black and white place plates are from C. Wonder which is no longer in business. #imissthatstore

And if you hadn’t already guessed it, all the flowers except the tulips are silk.

Now that I’ve created my Easter table, I’m pretty sure the Easter bunny will be dropping off an Easter basket at my front door.

I hope my Spring Thyme tablescape has inspired you to add a little spring happy around your house. For more spring cheer, hop (no pun intended) over to Totally Tailgates and check out Heather’s spring inspiration.

And there’s a list of all the participating bloggers on the Spring Thyme Recipe & Style blog hop listed below so make sure to stop by and check them out.