Product + Inspiration: Decor Meets Christmas Tree

November 15, 2016

When I teach a holiday decorating workshop, the question always comes up about whether your tree decor needs to match your room decor. My response is NO but for a truly cohesive look its best if your everyday decor inspires your tree decor.

Take a cue from the tips you use to decorate a room in your home. You start with one or two key elements (art, rug, curtains) and use those as the building blocks to create the overall design. When it comes to decorating your Christmas tree, find inspiration within your decor and use that to build the theme for your tree.

Here are 3 holiday tree designs and the accessory and furniture pieces that could have inspired them…

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This is the Christmas tree I’d create if my inspiration was colorful and bohemian inspired space. The gold accents play off of the gold finish on the furniture and the bold mix of colors tie back to the textiles within the room. During the holidays, sparkly details are a must and a grouping of beautiful mercury glass candle holders would inspired the ornaments, ribbon and giftwrap I’d use.

Shop these items: Embroidered Floral Bouquet Throw Pillow // Gold Cole 3-Tier Rolling Bar Cart

Sabyasachi Print Round Tray // Mercury Glass Candle Holders //Tufted Ottoman

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If I were decorating a Christmas tree based on decor that included classic holiday colors like red, white and green, it would look like this. The varying shades green found in the jars and artwork, along with whimsical details like the fur pillow would inspire the ornaments and ribbon used on the tree.

Shop these items: Charlotte 3-Drawer Campaign Chest // Red Rhododendron Framed Prints // Oversized Wine Bottle

Reese Velvet Ottoman // Mongolian Faux Fur Pillow

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A neutral color palette relies on texture, a variety of finishes and a subtle graduation of color to bring it to life. This elegant and glam Christmas tree would be inspired by a mix of gold and silver decorative elements, antique surfaces, lots of visual texture and shimmery finishes.

Shop these items: Carys Hurricane Table Lamp // Diana Accent Table // Moravia Wall Mirror

Holston Area Rug // Baylee Aluminum Accent Table

So the question still remains–which comes first, the chicken or the egg. In the case of holiday decor, take a look around your home and let the pieces you live with everyday inspire you!

Preparing For The Holidays (and reducing holiday stress)

November 14, 2016

Can you believe that there are only 41 days until Christmas? This weekend the magnitude of my holiday to-do list set in and I began to panic about everything I need to get done. When that panic set in I knew I need to sit down and strategize my holiday season. With pen and paper in hand, I outlined a strategy to take the stress out of the holidays and put the joy back in.

I know many of you can relate so today I’m sharing my tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Season.

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PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Planning is key to getting things done this holiday and finding time to enjoy the season. The first thing to do is pull out your calendar and jot down all the activities you want and need to participate in. Plan time to enjoy holiday traditions with family and friends and block out time to just relax.

tip: pull out your favorite board games and put them in a basket where they are accessible and will encourage play time.

CREATE A DETAILED GIFT LIST

If you haven’t started your gift list yet , it’s time to sit down and create one. Spend time online looking for the perfect gift and do some price comparisons. Plan to shop on Small Business Saturday (Sat., Nov. 26th) to support your favorite local businesses. When planning your gift lists, gather store coupons so they will be handy when you head out to shop.

tip: many stores have already started offering Black Friday Deals so shopping early can reduce stress and save you some money.

And to make things even easier, I created a fun Gift List printable below for you to use.

Download Christmas Gift List

GET THE GUEST ROOM READY

Hosting guests during the holidays doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you plan ahead. Stock up on petite size toiletries and snack food for your guest to use and enjoy. Wash sheets and towels and placed them in a linen closet or accessible storage area. Create an essential list for your guest including phone numbers, house alarm code, wi-fi password and local points of interest.

tip: place a basket in your guest bedroom to hold extra blankets and pillows so guest don’t have to come asking for them.

STOCK UP ON NECESSARY COOKING SUPPLIES/FOOD ITEMS

Don’t take the chance that your grocery store will have everything you need days before Thanksgiving and Christmas. Plan your holiday menus and shop now for all the necessary supplies. Stock up on items like beverages, frozen food and spices so you have enough to last through the season.

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DECORATE YOUR OWN WAY

Decorating during the holidays can sometimes feel like a challenge–who can make their home the merriest. One way to take the stress out of the season is to decorate your way. Decorate as little or as much as you want and don’t feel bad if you don’t get it all done. This is the time of year when the focus should be on spending time with family and friends and remembering all that we have to be grateful for.

tip: if the idea of decorating a tree has you cringing, don’t do it. Hang a few garlands and wreaths, put out a few Christmas pillows and call it a day.

PLAY MUSIC

Music is proven to have a calming effect so during the busy holiday season turn on some tunes and enjoy the season through music. Create a holiday playlist in iTunes that includes your favorite Christmas songs and make it a point to enjoy at least 30 minutes of music each day.

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KEEP YOU HOME CLUTTER FREE AND ORGANIZED

It’s easy to let clutter and chaos take over during the holidays. Create storage areas of holiday wrapping paper, supplies and cards so you have a designated place to store things. And spend 10 minutes every day walking through the house so that task of doing major cleaning is more manageable.

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Preparing For The Holidays…RELAX & ENJOY

The most important tip I can share for reducing stress this holiday is to relax and enjoy the season.

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Favorites Of The Week (all from the One Room Challenge)

November 12, 2016

Hi friends. Sorry it’s been a bit quite here on the blog this week. I made several attempts to sit down and finish this weeks blog posts but things just kept getting in the way. I’m going to be back on schedule next week with an eclectic (don’t you just love that word) mix of posts. I’ll be sharing some holiday gift wrap inspiration and wrapping tips, my first holiday gift guide and a DIY project that has been on my to-do list to ages!

I’m closing out the week my usual ‘favorites’ post but this time it’s all about the One Room Challenge which is now in its 10th season. Have your had a chance to check out all the spaces that were transformed over the last 6 weeks? I haven’t made it through all the participating bloggers posts but what I’ve seen so far is WOW! Holy Moly, there are some truly amazing design ideas, before and after transformations and a whole lot of inspiration. Check out a few of my favorite spaces (so far)…

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First up is Burlap and Lace. Shannon did an amazing job adding style and detail to a long narrow room with lots of bookcases.

{all images via Burlap and Lace}

The before…

And the after…

a coat of black paint made those simple bookcase look like high-end custom-built shelves

the faux fireplace adds another focal point within the room

impeccable styling

You can see the full Burlap and Lace reveal here.

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Next is Kris from Driven By Decor. Kris was also working with a room that had lots of bookcases but instead of going dark and dramatic, she created soft and soothing space.

{all images via Driven By Decor}

The before…

And the after…

one of the prettiest gallery walls I seen in a while

pillow mixing at its best–bold pattern + texture + small print

this color palette is a breath of fresh air

You can see the full Driven By Decor reveal here.

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The next space I absolutely love was designed and transformed by Kristin from The Hunted Interior. She was also working with a long narrow space and added a wall of bookcases to create drama at the far end of the room.

{all images via The Hunted Interior}

The before…

progress..

And the after…

i love the bohemian vibe the comes from the pattern and texture mix

Notice that mix of materials? That’s a design detail all rooms need.

You can see the full Hunted Interior reveal here.

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I love every space that Nancy of Marcus Design creates and the bathroom transformation she completed is just stunning.

{all image via Marcus Design}

The before…

And the after…

Blue + white + gold=perfection.

drawer lines are such a simple detail that adds so much style

Classic details that will stand the test of time.

You can see the full Marcus Design reveal here.

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This is just the beginning of so many more beautiful spaces created by the featured designers participating in the One Room Challenge. You can see each and every one of the featured spaces here.

And then there are over 200 additional room transformations from the Guest Participants you’ll want to check out too. You can find all link to all those space here.

*****

Happy weekend and I’ll see you back here Monday!

Winter Scarves From Nordstrom (budget friendly finds)

November 9, 2016

I woke up yesterday morning and it was down right frigid outside. The warm weather trend is definitely over and the cool, crisp air of fall is here to stay. One of my go-to fashion accessories when the weather turns cool is a scarf. I am always cold and a scarf adds just the right layer of warmth around my neck and shoulders.

When I was cleaning out my closet in early spring, I tossed a few of my scarves that had seen better days. Now I’m in the market for a couple of new scarves that will work as transitional pieces from fall to winter.

Nordstrom always has a great selection of scarves and I always find what I’m looking for. A recent search of their website served up some great options, most of which are priced between $25.00 and $50.00. And here’s a great tip if you’re looking for fashion scarves on a budget–shop the Brass Plum department. Brass Plum is a shop aimed primarily for juniors but their accessory items are perfect for any fashionista, regardless of your age.

Let’s go scarf shopping shall we…

No. 1 — This Abstract Print Cashmere & Silk Scarf is the most expensive scarf ($99) in my group but I just love the blue and white marble swirl pattern. It’s the perfect scarf to wear with jeans and sweaters.

No. 2 — Navajo prints are a hot trend right now and the Atlas Scarf is a classic take on the design style. This will look great with a chunky sweater, slim jean and ankle boots.

No. 3 — The Fantasy Brushstroke Scarf is another abstract pattern that looks like a piece of artwork. I adore the pink and red color combo and would style this with a denim dress and tights.

No. 4 — If you love graphic patterns, you’ll love this Geo Pattern Woven Square Scarf . This is the perfect piece to pair with a wool coat or quilted vest.

No.5 — I love the grey, ivory and yellow in this Stripe Plaid Scarf and the $29 price makes it even more attractive. I’m definitely going picking this one up.

No.6 — I own this Reversible Scarf and love the two patterns because it like two scarves in one. The scarf is oversized and a little thicker than the others so it works as a great outer layer when a coat is too much.

No. 7 — Have you noticed all the navy clothing in stores for fall and winter? This navy and grey Colorblock Woven Scarf has a classic design and the lightweight fabric makes it really versatile for layering.

No. 8 — I’m all about scarves with all-over patterns and love this Vintage Garden Scarf. This is another one I’ll be adding to my wardrobe.

With an ever-growing scarf collection, I’m on the hunt for a new way to organize and store them while reducing wrinkles and keeping them visible. Here are a few ideas from Pinterest that I’m inspired by.

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purchase swing arm hanger here

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purchase similar over-the-door rack here

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purchase similar swing arm door rack here

I hope you’ve found one or two new scarves to add to your wardrobe. Happy shopping!

*Some affiliate links are used in this post which help support this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting ConfettiStyle!

The Nate Berkus Fall 2016 Collection

November 7, 2016

Every season, Nate Berkus develops his product line for Target and every season it gets better and better. His fall collection is filled with texture, chic design details and metallic elements. And I am truly astonished at the affordable price points.

As I looked through the collection on the website, it was hard to narrow down my top picks. I did and came away with a list of 12 items that will elevate the style of any home in a flash.

The Nate Berkus Collection For Target–Fall 2016

No. 1–There is so much to love about the Screen Door Nightstand, from the door detail to the brass handles. Its easy to envision it next to a bed but I could also see it used for storage in a home office or even in a bathroom.

No. 2–I’ve been looking for a small console table for a client and this Brass and Gold Console Table might be it. The size is perfect for a small hallway, next to the front door or in a guest bedroom. I can also envision this table with small stools nested underneath it.

No. 3–This Marble and Gold Console Table is a great option for a small wall space between windows or on a stair landing. I’d also consider using a pair flanking a bed with wall mounted sconces above them.

No. 4–If you’ve shopped for small side tables you know how hard they can be to find. The Brass and Hexagon End Table is ideal next to an upholstered chair or sofa to hold a cocktail.

No. 5–Rattan stools are a classic design piece and I love the two-tone detail on this Rattan Stool. I’d place a pair in front of a fireplace for additional seating or use them as side tables in a sunroom.

No. 6–The Equestrian Side Table might be my favorite piece in the entire collection. I love the idea of a pair used as a coffee table alternative or one or two under a console table in a foyer.

No. 7–This Braided Woven Storage Basket is just begging for a couple of throw blankets or a lush plant. Or you could use it in a kids play space to hold toys.

No. 8–I’m a sucker for pretty bowls and this Faceted Mini Bowl is perfect for snacks or used to hold jewelry and trinkets in a bedroom.

No. 9–You can’t beat the elegant style or the $19.99 price of this Gold Mirror vanity mirror.

No. 10–I’ve talked about my love for letter organizers here on the blog before. This Gold Hammered Letter Sorter is great because the scale will hold letters, file folders or magazines.

No. 11–The black and gold color combo plus the price of this Brass and Gold Coffee Table made it an obvious choice for my list. Just imagine this in a reading/lounge area flanked by four upholstered slipper chairs.

No. 12–Black and white is a hot design trend for bathrooms so this chic Graphic Bath Rug is right on target. I think it would look fabulous in this bathroom.

After I checked out the collection online, I visited my local store to check them out in person. Everything looks great and the furniture pieces are well-built for the price.

p.s. as I was writing this, I noticed that many of the items in the collection are on SALE. You’ll want to act fast if you see anything you like.

You can shop the entire Nate Berkus collection here.

Organizing Envy–Ideas to Inspire and Try

November 4, 2016

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I’ve been at my mom’s house that last few days helping her deal with the aftermath of a pipe bursting and ruining all of her floors. All of the furniture has been moved out and new flooring is being installed throughout the house. It’s a big mess but things are getting done and I’m grateful that she is ok and that the damage wasn’t any worse.

Starting tomorrow, the hubs and I will be working on getting everything back in place and doing a little organizing while we are at it. When something like this happens, it makes you look at everything in a new light and take stock of what really matters and what things you no long need or value. My mom is ready to let some things go.

With a big organizing task ahead of me, I thought I’d share some organizing inspiration with you today.

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Linen Closet Organizing

Isn’t this linen closet just beautiful? You’d never know that this cabinet is actually a pantry piece meant to be used in the kitchen. My mom doesn’t have a free-standing piece like this but I could use these ideas in her linen closet. The shelves on the doors are great for keeping small items visible so I’m inspired to add these storage bins to her linen closet door.

via Ballard Design

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Clothes Closet Organizing

Getting my moms closets back together is going to be a task. She has a lot of clothes and shoes but things were in a bit of disarray. A few storage baskets and a small cubby to hold shoes will add style and order. And I’m loving the idea of cloth bins which could hold her scarves and cold weather accessories.

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Household Supplies Organizing

I love coming across clever organizing ideas and this one using a closet storage piece to hold paper towels is brilliant.

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Kitchen Organizing

Baskets are definitely my go-to decorative accessory when it come to organization. I love the idea of using an oversized baskets in the kitchen to hold cutting boards and such.

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Office Organizing

And here’s another clever organizing idea using a basket. I’m definitely inspired by this one.

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A TJMaxx just opened in my moms hometown so while they finish up the flooring I’m off to do some shopping for baskets, bins and other goodies. I’ll be back tomorrow with a new Favorites of The Week post so stop by and check it out. And happy Thursday!

It’s The Little Things–Decorative Matches

November 2, 2016

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There’s a small bowl sitting next to a candle on my coffee table filled with decorative matchboxes. I’ve purchased a few of them, made a few myself and have lucked upon some really cools one at stores and restaurants. Decorative matchboxes are one of those design details that don’t make a big statement but add a fun element to your decor. Decorative matches are a fun and functional way to accessorize a tabletop vignette.

Here’s some design inspiration and a few of my favorite decorative matches you can shop.

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Inspired? Shop my favorite decorative matchboxes below…

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If you love the idea of monogram matchboxes, check out For Your Party or Etsy

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 //

ConfettiStyle Christmas Decor Theme–2016

October 31, 2016

Every year I develop a design plan for my Christmas decor and share it with you here on the blog. I create an inspiration board that gives a visual overview of the colors, patterns and tree decor that will make up my holiday decor. Today’s the day that I’m sharing my 2016 Christmas decor theme with you before the elves (me) get to work decorating.

I also wanted to let you know that I am again hosting the Merry & Bright Holiday Home Tour blog hop with Kellie from Design Asylum. This is the 2nd year for the blog tour and it’s exciting because we have even more fabulous bloggers participating and two great brand sponsors for 2016.

So, without further a-due, here’s a look at my Merry & Bright Holiday Home Design Plan for 2016…

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The inspiration for my theme started when I spotted this Poinsettia wrapping paper from Paper Mart. I fell in love with the design and bold but classic color combination.

Then I spotted Cassie’s Christmas tree on Pinterest which was decorated in all of the colors used in the wrapping paper design. From there my plan really came together.

My Christmas tree will bold and bright and will include a mix of classic colors and pops of pink and gold. And I’ll be throwing some black and white into the mix as well.

I’m planning to pair the poinsettia wrap with other patterns like stripes and dots and will be using a variety of ribbons to tie the colors together.

Another fun element I’ll be using are touches of boxwood. I’ll be hanging a boxwood wreath from Silk Plants Direct and I’m also planning to use boxwood elements in my gift wrap and in my holiday tablescape.

I’ve ordered some pretty tags and stickers from Zazzle and have my eyes on a couple of new Christmas pillows like this one and this one.

Christmas is definitely my favorite time of the year and I can’t wait to share my decor with you. I also have some great gift guides, entertaining posts and easy DIY projects planned.

Mark your calendars for the 2016 Merry & Bright Holiday Home Tour. Like last year, all of the participating bloggers will be sharing their holiday home tours over a 3 week period starting November 30th.

Shop these items: Embroidered Floral Bouquet Throw Pillow // Gold Cole 3-Tier Rolling Bar Cart

Sabyasachi Print Round Tray // Mercury Glass Candle Holders //Tufted Ottoman

Shop these items: Charlotte 3-Drawer Campaign Chest // Red Rhododendron Framed Prints // Oversized Wine Bottle

Reese Velvet Ottoman // Mongolian Faux Fur Pillow

Shop these items: Carys Hurricane Table Lamp // Diana Accent Table // Moravia Wall Mirror

Holston Area Rug // Baylee Aluminum Accent Table

PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

tip: pull out your favorite board games and put them in a basket where they are accessible and will encourage play time.

CREATE A DETAILED GIFT LIST

tip: many stores have already started offering Black Friday Deals so shopping early can reduce stress and save you some money.

GET THE GUEST ROOM READY

tip: place a basket in your guest bedroom to hold extra blankets and pillows so guest don’t have to come asking for them.

STOCK UP ON NECESSARY COOKING SUPPLIES/FOOD ITEMS

DECORATE YOUR OWN WAY

tip: if the idea of decorating a tree has you cringing, don’t do it. Hang a few garlands and wreaths, put out a few Christmas pillows and call it a day.

PLAY MUSIC

KEEP YOU HOME CLUTTER FREE AND ORGANIZED

Preparing For The Holidays…RELAX & ENJOY

{all images via Burlap and Lace}

a coat of black paint made those simple bookcase look like high-end custom-built shelves

the faux fireplace adds another focal point within the room

impeccable styling

{all images via Driven By Decor}

one of the prettiest gallery walls I seen in a while

pillow mixing at its best–bold pattern + texture + small print

this color palette is a breath of fresh air

{all images via The Hunted Interior}

i love the bohemian vibe the comes from the pattern and texture mix

Notice that mix of materials? That’s a design detail all rooms need.

{all image via Marcus Design}

Blue + white + gold=perfection.

drawer lines are such a simple detail that adds so much style

Classic details that will stand the test of time.

No. 1 — This Abstract Print Cashmere & Silk Scarf is the most expensive scarf ($99) in my group but I just love the blue and white marble swirl pattern. It’s the perfect scarf to wear with jeans and sweaters.

No. 2 — Navajo prints are a hot trend right now and the Atlas Scarf is a classic take on the design style. This will look great with a chunky sweater, slim jean and ankle boots.

No. 3 — The Fantasy Brushstroke Scarf is another abstract pattern that looks like a piece of artwork. I adore the pink and red color combo and would style this with a denim dress and tights.

No. 4 — If you love graphic patterns, you’ll love this Geo Pattern Woven Square Scarf . This is the perfect piece to pair with a wool coat or quilted vest.

No.5 — I love the grey, ivory and yellow in this Stripe Plaid Scarf and the $29 price makes it even more attractive. I’m definitely going picking this one up.

No.6 — I own this Reversible Scarf and love the two patterns because it like two scarves in one. The scarf is oversized and a little thicker than the others so it works as a great outer layer when a coat is too much.

No. 7 — Have you noticed all the navy clothing in stores for fall and winter? This navy and grey Colorblock Woven Scarf has a classic design and the lightweight fabric makes it really versatile for layering.

No. 8 — I’m all about scarves with all-over patterns and love this Vintage Garden Scarf. This is another one I’ll be adding to my wardrobe.

purchase swing arm hanger here

purchase similar over-the-door rack here

purchase similar swing arm door rack here

*Some affiliate links are used in this post which help support this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting ConfettiStyle!

The Nate Berkus Collection For Target–Fall 2016

Linen Closet Organizing

via Ballard Design

Clothes Closet Organizing

Household Supplies Organizing

Kitchen Organizing

Office Organizing

Inspired? Shop my favorite decorative matchboxes below…

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 //

Merry & Bright image via Dribble