Buoys in the Snow

Is anyone else experiencing unpredictable weather this year?  On Monday I was scraping ice off my windshield in the 30 degree temperatures, and on Friday it was 65 degrees and I was rolling down the windows to get some air.  I think these buoys covered with snow are the perfect images to show the irony of the recent temperature changes.  I'd take either snow or the beach right now!

[Images courtesy of GadNugget, Topix, Cool Librarian Photographer, & CT Post]

Just like a Gypsy

Sometimes I wish I lived in an Airstream with homemade curtains just like a gypsy...now I can't take credit for that line, that's all Miranda Lambert's Airstream Song.  But I definitely agree with her- the freedom, adventure, and traveling that would come with a gypsy's life seems very enticing.  When I think of a gypsy's lifestyle, I think of rich colors, layers of textures, and treasures found from various locations.  I hope this wedding mood board inspires you in the same way that this mysterious lifestyle makes me daydream.

[Images courtesy of Style Me Pretty, Ruffled, & Southern Aisle]

Snug and Cozy

It makes me so sad to see Christmas trees on the side of the road for the garbage man to come pick up! I hate saying goodbye to the Christmas season- just when everyone was becoming so jolly and cheery it seems like it was gone in a blink.  I'm hanging on to the last few days of the scent of pine filling our house, the last twinkles of the lights, and the last few leftover cookies.  I'm looking forward to a New Year filled with rustic details, snowy days, cozy blankets, and warm lit fires.

[Kinfolk Magazine, Pennyweight, The Cherry Blossom Girl, We Heart It ]

Winter Wedges

Who said wedges were only for summer?  Rich textures like suede, leather, and snakeskin make these shoes perfect when paired with stockings, leggings, or trousers. Their rich, neutral tones can be combined with winter whites or dark regals- perfect for the colder temperatures.

[a. Kors by Michael Kors Malone,  b. Kate Spade Kiki, c. Seychelles Typewriter,  d. Aldo Melquiste,  e. Kate Spade Caelyn,  f. Steve Madden Roxxiee,  g. Seychelles Eye to Eye II,  h. Naughty Monkey Vice]  Bandolino Edoile

New Christmas Traditions

Our Christmas this year was filled with the challenges and excitement of blending old traditions with new.  Between trying to coordinate schedules, getting time off from work, and being 5 hours away from family, we had to let go of some of the traditions we had while growing up and create new traditions of our own.  I will never forget the night Chris and I went to pick out our Christmas tree. After singing Country Christmas carols on the way there, strapping it to the roof & digging out the ornament boxes, we restrung the lights and star garland until they were just right and hung ornaments that our parents had given us from childhood.  The tree was snowman themed, complete with a top hat and red bulbs.  Almost every ornament was a snowman that my mom and I had painted or collected while I was growing up.

I've always wanted to be one of those people whose packages are all wrapped in coordinating paper.  I'm proud to say that I was- each gift was wrapped in either brown kraft paper or navy snowman paper with twine and red ribbon.  Our stockings were also Snowmen, hung on reindeer hooks.  They looked so nice glowing by the multiple fires that Chris has made this season.  

Both of our families came to our apartment a few days before Christmas so that we could all be together to celebrate. Setting the table and cooking together was so fun, and afterwards we opened gifts and watched National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (a tradition of both of our families that we could share together).  Dad made the neatest wooden shelf tray from rustic bard board and a snowman from light blocks to add to my snowman collection. And I had to include a picture of my first Kate from Chris :)

Our first Christmas together was different from anything we could have imagined- but it was perfect.  I look forward to many more Christmases together and can't wait for traditions to be made for the first time and celebrated for years to come.

[Photo editing courtesy of Instagram]

Merry Christmas 2011

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas surrounded by family and friends.  One of my favorite things about Christmas is wrapping gifts- my family would ask me to wrap all their gifts for other people, and I would happily say yes.  I hope the presents under your tree are as pretty on the outside as these stunning images.  But most importantly, I hope the best gift you receive is the time spent with your family. Merry Christmas to you and yours.

[Images courtesy of Brunch at Saks, Coco & Kelley, 79 Ideas, & Tumblr]

Gift Guide: For Her

Pardon me while I'm being selfish...but here are a few gift ideas that any girl would like (not just me!) The neutral tones these items have make them transitional from one season to the next.  Except for that Anthro Christmas tree.  I'll just take that now and put it right on the mantle :)

a.  Anthropologie Printed Paper Tree

b.  Lia Sophia Cabana Necklace

c.  Pottery Barn Emmett Medium Jewelry Box

d.  Anthropologie Prospector's Prize Dangles

e.  Butter London Nail Lacquer

Gift Guide: For the Couple

I am thankful for a productive weekend of Christmas shopping.  For me, one of the best things about gift giving (besides watching the person open it) is taking time to wrap it just right.  Brown craft paper and white paper doilies have been my go-to wrapping supplies this Christmas.  As for the gifts themselves- sometimes I think the hardest people to buy for is a couple.  Here are some simple gifts that both mr. and mrs. can enjoy.

a.  Garden & Gun Antler Note Cards
b.  Fifteen/Eleven Holiday Gift Tags
c.  Rocky Mountain Hardware
d.  Merry Christmas Burlap Pillow

DIY: Holiday Wreath

A few weeks ago I posted a montage of wreaths to inspire me to create a wreath of my own for the holidays.  I found a twig wreath base at Big Lots on clearance for $5...so I decided to start there.  I began to build off of the rustic style wreath and bought some berry springs and frosty branches from Michaels fake floral section. I also got some unfinished wooden letters to paint.  I simply cut the fake branches and twigs into smaller pieces and tucked them into the wreath using brown wire.  I painted the letters burgundy and hot glued them on top of the fake branches.  So easy! What do ya think?

a.  Twig Wreath
b.  Unfinished Wooden Letters
c.  Berry Spray
d.  Liquitex Basics Acrylic Paint
e.  Brown Craft Wire
f.  Natural Birch Branch with Glitter

[All my supplies came from Michaels and Big Lots, but above are links to similar items to help you build your own]

Winter Wonderland

Now that December is almost here, I'm getting so excited for Christmas music, pretty wrapping, snow, and twinkle lights.  What are your favorite holiday staples?

[Images courtesy of Sterling Reflections Photography, Dress Design Decor, Deliciously Organized, Dreaming of a White Christmas Tumblr, & Leslie Thomson on Flickr]

The Little Things

I'm thankful for having a Thanksgiving that was filled with friends and family, stuffing, leftovers, safe travels, and the beginnings of Christmas decorations. So here's just a simple saying for you on this Monday. 

[Images courtesy of Jose Villa & Tumblr]

Ivory & Night

Layers, textures, and neutral colors are quickly becoming my staples this holiday season.  Hope you enjoy these chunky knits, nude accessories, and this cozy interior as you relax with family after Thanksgiving.  And to all of you brave enough for Black Friday...happy shopping!

[Atlantic Pacific, Where the Sidewalk Begins, Natalie Merrillyn, Sacramento Street]

Lake Logos

Graphic Designer Nicole Meyer started a project to brand each lake of Minnesota.  Her project "Branding 10,000 Lakes" is a great way to bring tourism to the Minnesota area and puts a fresh spin on not-so-pretty lake logos. I love the color palette these logos create when displayed together and the textures and fonts make each one unique.  Even though I don't know anything about the individual lakes, the way Nicole has branded them makes me feel like I know a little bit about each one.

 

Kate Spade's Home

In addition to the Kate Spade bag I have on my Christmas list, I'm adding the interior of her home, too.  I'll take the artwork on the wall, the striped kelly green wallpaper, and those luxurious chairs. I love the muted neutrals layered behind stripes, textures, and color.  Design intent is carried out into every detail from the lighting to the door hardware.  I think her home's interior fits the classic quality and detailed craftsmanship that her bags do.

[Images courtesy of Greige Design]

I dreamt about a Yellow Necklace

and since then I've been on the hunt to find one as pretty as the one I remember in my dreams.  Random I know, right?  But the more I think about it, the more I love the idea of a pop of yellow against a navy blazer, black tee, and the list goes on and on.  Which necklace is your favorite?

[a.  Jewelry by Jessica T on Etsy, b.  Tree & Kimball on Etsy, c. Elva Fields,  d.  Drawing Room Necklace from Anthropologie]

Pile on the Weekend

Lately I've been drawn to photographs of log piles.  Their rustic but organized quality reminds me of home, camping, and my dad burning fires in our fire place.  I hope you have a great weekend and find a way to make wherever you are or whatever you're doing to make you feel at home.

 [Images courtesy of Simon Bates on Flickr, The Chic Line, In A Minor Chord on Flickr, Modern Hepburn]

Cozy Texture

The recent cooler temperatures have got me craving cozy textures and layers of warmth.  Chunky sweaters and sunlit interiors inspired this collection of interior furniture and accessories.

a.  Bryant Chair, Ethan Allen, $1259
b.  Reclaimed Leather & Jute Rug, World Market, $69.99
c.  Sweater Vases, Crate & Barrel, $29.95 each
d.  Birch Pillar Candles, World Market, $6.99-$24.99
e.  Novica Black Luxurious Geometry Alpaca Wool Throw Blanket, World Market, $107.99

[Images courtesy of Emma's Design Blogg, Crush Culdesac, Treasure the Little Things Tumblr]

Monochromatic Tablescape

As soon as I saw this HGTV tablescape, I knew I had to recreate it.  I love the black and white monochromatic color scheme with accents of metallics.  Natural pumpkins and glittery gourds look so chic when paired with whites and blacks.  This table has such a festive look and could easily transfer from Thanksgiving to Christmas by simply switching out the pumpkins and gourds for ornaments and bulbs. I've found some pieces below to help recreate this look but have tailored it for Christmas by using ball shaped ornaments instead of gourds.  I'd love to hear what you think about this look!

a.  Chilewich Cubic Gunmetal Runner, Crate & Barrel, $27.95
b.  Gold Jingle Jungle Ornament, Pier 1 Imports, $4.95
c.  Antique Glass Silver Origami Ball Ornament, Crate & Barrel, $3.50
d.  London Small Clear Hurricanes, Crate & Barrel, $24.95
e.  Dansk Bistro Cafe Stainless Flatware, Macy's, $29.99 for 5-piece setting
f.  Nora Wine Glasses, Crate & Barrel, $8.21
g.  Grasscloth Pewter Placemat & Napkin, Crate & Barrel,
h.  Gold & Silver Luster Glass Onion Ornaments, Pier 1 Imports, $2.95
i.  Silk Ribbon Slate Setting, Lauren Ralph Lauren at Macy's, $80 for 5-piece setting
j.  Set of 3 Antique Glass Polka Dot Ornaments, Crate & Barrel, $8.85
k.  Set of 4 Glitter Pine Metallic Ornaments, Crate & Barrel, $27.50

Autumn Barns

My favorite thing about fall besides pumpkin spice lattes and pumpkins are the turning leaves.  The leaves are at their peak in Charlotte right now, but at the same time I miss seeing rural farms and open fields in autumn. There's nothing like a rustic barn with a backdrop of brightly colored leaves. But until I can go home for Thanksgiving and see them in person, here are a few barns and color palettes to inspire :)

Mantle Findings

 I'm so blessed to have a wood-burning fire place in our apartment.  Lately I've been looking for mantle decorating inspiration and here are some of the favorites I've found.

I decided to combine some of my favorite ideas in photoshop so I could share my visual ideas with you guys.  So here's my photoshop rendering of a Christmas mantle.  I think the fresh lime green accents is a contemporary twist on a classic Christmas color.  Filling apothecary jars with ornaments is a simple way to add color and could easily be filled with mini pumpkins, wine corks, sand & shells, etc. depending on the season.  Hanging letters in front of small mirrors is another versatile option that can be changed for different occasions.

[Items used in mantle rendering: a. Covered Jars, b. Found pinecones, c. Noelle Mirrors, d. Burlap Ribbon, e. Antique Glass Textured Ball Ornaments, f.  Zinc Letters, g.  Set of 4 Glitter Stripe Ball Ornaments,  h.  3-piece Astoria Candleholders,   i. Pale Lime chinois Silk Ribbon]

Reclaimed Wood

Reclaimed wood is one of my weaknesses.  I dream of having a home one day with rustic wooden floors and reclaimed wooden headboards, shelving, and tables.  Don't you love this wine trough set into a wooden picnic table and the painted wooden floor? From decor to weddings, rustic wood provides the perfect backdrop.

Becca's Rustic Wedding Mood Board

It's been a while since I've created a wedding mood board, but with a big event coming up I thought it would be the perfect occasion to make a rustic themed image board:) This board is inspired by my friend Becca of Sterling Reflections Photography.  These images fit what I see her wedding style as- simple & rustic with handmade detailed and fresh colors.  Her Pinterest is full of more images that show her style and creativity.  And be sure to check out some of her amazing engagement photos on Katelyn James Photography Blog. Happy Wedding Planning Becca!

[Style Me Pretty, Ruffled. Style Me Pretty Texas, Alex Burrow on Pinterest, Amanda Sheehan on Pinterest, Justine Impola on Pinterest, Ruffled]

Trends: Antler Accessories

Lately I've been seeing antlers everywhere.  Chandeliers, wall mounts, graphics-they are a trend in fashion and interiors.  This suits me just fine especially since I have a husband that loves to hunt! (I'm still trying to convince him to make me an antler chandelier!) But until that happens, here are some stunning pieces of jewelry that can bring the antler trend into your everyday style. And the best thing about all these pieces is that they are handmade sold on Etsy for totally affordable prices!

a.  Dainty Antler Silver Necklace by Moon Light for Violet
b.  Bronze Whitetail Deer Antler Ring by Moon Raven Designs
c.  White Stag Antler Earrings by Peaches and Pebbles
d.  Sterling Silver Antler Post Earrings by Autumn Equinox

Autumn Wreaths

I'm currently on the hunt for a festive autumn wreath for our front door.  I'm looking for a neutral base made from either burlap or twigs that could be dressed up for multiple seasons.  After looking for wreaths online, I'm creatively overwhelmed by all the options! From berries, rosettes, leaves, ribbons, and paper it seems like the possibilities are endless.  Here are some of my favorites I found during my hunt that I wanted to share with you.  And of course I had to throw in the Virginia Tech wreath!  I'll keep you updated on the wreath scavenger hunt for our door and who knows...maybe have a DIY to go with it!

 

[Rebecca Williams on Pinterest, Pinterest, Sarah Gonzales on Pinterest, The Chic Line, Two Inspire You on Etsy, My Home Ideas, Karascakery on Etsy]

Vibrant Interiors Palette

Lime greens, pumpkins, rich chocolates, and camel-toned hues provide the perfect accent colors for fall.  Try pairing any of these with each other or with a basic cool gray in your interior!

Michael Kors Watches

I can't get enough of Michaels Kors latest collection of watches.  I'm a big fan of rose gold lately, and they have so many styles using this metal.  Rose gold and lighter leathers look less contrasting against your skin tone so they can be more versatile.  These watches can easily transfer from daytime into evening.  One thing about watches though is that they always look so different when you try them on in person.  You're favorite style might not look as good on you as you thought, and you may be drawn to one completely different that you originally planned.  I can't wait to try some of these on in person!

[a. chronograph watch rose gold & navy, b. oversized madison chronograph watch horn,  c. midsize runway watch brown,  d. crocodile embossed watch rose gold and gray,  e. brown leather strap watch, f. shiny rose golden watch,  g. shiny golden watch,  h. mini bel-air watch rose golden, i. davenport wrap watch]

Game Day Attire for Work

Now that I'm in the real world and going through college withdrawal, I'm constantly thinking about ways to still show my school spirit.  Being away from Blacksburg and not being able to go to every football game is so hard to get used to! I'm still getting used to having to dress up for work and not wearing yoga pants and VT sweatshirts everyday! Here are some business looks that can still show some subtle VT pride whether its game day or any other day of the week.

a.  Loft Cable Cowl Neck Sweater Dress
b.  J. Crew Skinny Leather Belt
c.  Tory Burch Patent Robinson Mini Bag
d.  J. Crew Refined Silk Cashmere Wrap
e.  Hermes Cape Cod Watch
f.  We Love Colors Maroon Tights
g.  Colin Stuart Curved Seam Boot
h.  Victoria's Secret Oversized Tee
i. Tory Burch Patent Leather Reversible Logo Hip Belt
j.  J. Crew Stretch Vintage Bootcut Cord
k.  Browns Vince Sweater
l.  Kate Spade Gold Coast Shimmer Evangeline Bag
m. J. crew Booker Booties

The Perfect Backdrop

The setting, the dress, and the bouquet totally set the tone for the entire wedding.  I love how these images sum that up so simply while being so full of flavor. I'm obsessed with the log pile in the middle photo!

[Images Courtesy of Southern Aisle, Snippet & Ink, Style Me Pretty]

Pretty Paper...

...Pretty ribbons of blue.  I'm a sucker for packaging, labels, gift wrap, and typeface.  I go to the wine aisle of the grocery store just to stare at the labels.  I even took a picture on my cell phone once of a 6-pack of beer to remember the composition and color scheme of it.  Nerd alert. I get so excited for kraft paper and stationery blogs.  These are just a few images of paper goods to get your creative juices flowing.

[Images courtesy of Pinterest, Dreams on 34th Street, The Ritzy Bee, Ruffled, Oh So 

Beautiful Paper]

Autumn Drink Buckets

Whether used for wedding receptions or tailgates, drink buckets are a must this fall.  I love the idea of filling rustic galvanized containers to the brim with ice and cold beer. Wine bottles look chic in an old wheel barrow, while a pumpkin sliced in half and cleaned out provides the perfect container for 12 oz. bottles.  Great ideas for any fall event!

[Images courtesy of Pinterest, Southern Living, Rebecca Williams on Pinterest (which I totally stalked for hours last night...so many good ideas.  Thanks Becca!), Southern Aisle, & unknown]

My Weekend In Textures

This weekend was full of fall staples and football.  Every year when the leaves begin to change I get so inspired.  I'm always a fan of accent lighting for inside and out, and have begun thinking about how to light our patio.  Exposed brick is something I hope for in our future home.  It provides a rustic backdrop full of history that makes almost any possession hung upon it seem elegant.  After Chris bought a half a cord of wood, we were able to enjoy our first fires of the season.  So cozy and homey.  And after I stacked the wood ( and I mean ALL the WOOD) while he was at work, it made me appreciate the simple burning hearth even more.  We bought our first jug of apple cider for the year and enjoyed a hot mug of it curled up by the fire we worked so hard for!  There is nothing better than a cozy sweater to wrap up in during the fall and winter months.  I especially love the pale hue of this one.  Log pile- 'nuff said. And I had to sneak in a picture I took from last week at home when we went to the pumpkin patch with my dog.  I loved this old orange wagon filled to the brim with pumpkins, so I antiqued it using one of the photoshop actions from Pioneer Woman.  

Oh and did I mention that the Cowboys played the Patriots Sunday?  And did I mention that Chris' favorite team is the Cowboys and my favorite team is the Patriots?  It was our first NFL Sunday marriage test, and you should've seen us decked out in our jerseys and face paint.  We placed our bets, and you'll be pleased to know that Chris owes me dinner at Panera one night this week. Go Pats!

[Images courtesy of The Chic Line, Pennyweight, Pinterest, Last Good Time, Tumblr, My Life in Texture, & myself]

From Art to Inspiration

I discovered Cocoa & Hearts colorful paintings on Ritzy Bee. I love her color combinations and streaky textures of the compositions. I was originally intending on just finding images that contained the same colors as the painting, but as the post evolved, I began to crop the images to become vertical strands that echo the composition of the painting.  I love how this painting translates into inspiration for style, decor, and furnishings.

[Painting] Cocoa & Hearts

[Salmon] Pinterest

[Aqua] Katie Rose Cottage

[Navy] Sacramento Street

[Yellow] Made by Girl

[Peach] Pinterest