Big Kid School Supplies: 2014 Edition

Awwwww...It's back to school time. With the pop up section of extra aisles filled with Sharpies, cute notebooks and Post-its, I'm in heaven. Pretty paper and nice pens make my heart flutter. These things make school (or work) much more pleasant, right?!? After all, you should surround yourself with what you love. ;) 

Even though I'm no longer a student, I still opt for stocking up on delightful desktop decor around this time of the year. Here are my top picks for savvy [big kid] school supplies: 

Kate Spade "Eat Cake for Breakfast" Notebook | Colorful Thumb Tacks | Acrylic Tape Dispenser

Washi Tape (because it's more fun than regular tape) | Gold Nate Berkus Scissors 

Letter Holder | Gold Nate Berkus Stapler | X-Large Black & White Striped Paper Clips

Orange Le Pen (because Le Pens are my most favorite writing utensil ever)

What supplies are you stocking up on now? 

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Homearama at Carriage Hill Recap (Part 2)

Last week, I shared my favorite spaces found at the 2014 Homearama at Carriage Hill (check out here), plus a few interesting adds like that basketball court in a basement (WOW). This week, I thought I would share a couple up close simple styling tricks you can implement in your own home, without the million dollar  (or even $100) budget.

Serving/Entertaining Sets

Observation

Most of the items on this patio came from Pottery Barn, which can really add up. (Disclosure: I do love Pottery Barn. In fact, we registered there for a wedding, but I admit, it can be steep.) The cloth napkins alone are $48 for a set. You can totally curate items on a more affordable scale and create this exact same look. Just head to TJ Maxx, Marshall's, Home Goods or Target and I'm confident you can recreate this serving set for half the price of the Pottery Barn version.

Takeway

Anything grouped together on a tray looks more polished. Remember this concept and dress up your next outdoor entertaining elements by styling them on a serving tray.

Observation 

This bottle caddy is also from Pottery Barn. It retails for $29.50. Again, I have seen very similar pieces at TJ Maxx, Marshall's and/or Home Goods for around $14.99. Bottom line: Friends don't let friends pay full price. 

Takeaway

While this piece may seem unnecessary, it does make the display of fancy/fancier drinks more special. When you use a piece like this, a common person would think "Having a caddy makes transporting the beverages to the patio easier," when in fact, you're thinking, "I hope everyone notices my cute caddy." If you want to add an element of "special" to your spread, use something similar. 

Centerpieces

Observation

Succulents have gained in popularity over the years. This arrangement makes a memorable outdoor centerpiece.

Takeaway

Purchase a succulent arrangement already potted. I've seen similar arrangements at Lowe's. Once you have the arrangement, add a metal sphere. I've definitely seen similar spheres at Target.

Observation

This designer simply took large apothecary jars and filled them with monochromatic fruits for a centerpiece with strong impact. 

Takeway

Implement this apothecary jar trick in your kitchen or entry way or as a party centerpiece.  Just purchase the jar and change out the contents regularly for an easy room refresh. Apothecary jars are a dime a dozen and you can find them for an affordable price at TJ Maxx, Marshall's and Home Goods.  I sound like a broken record, but these stores (with exception of Target) are my favorite places to shop for home decor items at an affordable price.

Bookcase Styling

Observation

Notice how the pops of color create strong interest in this space. Also, notice how it creates a cohesive feel, when in reality, the binds of these books don't look good together. 

Takeaway

Use decorative wrapping paper or shelving paper to cover the binds of miscallaneous books.


Did you attend Homearama at Carriage Hill this year? If so, what was your favorite styling trick?

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Homearama at Carriage Hill Recap (Part 1)

This past weekend, we headed to Homearama at Carriage Hill, which was prefect timing for decorating ideas as we recently moved into a new home! It's been a big week here in NKY. Between moving and preparing to turn 30 this coming weekend, it has been quite busy. None the less, we are excited to begin a new adventure in a new home!

A new home means a whole new decorating plan.

On that note, let's get to the inspiration!

The Homes

The home below definitely had a Pottery Barn-feel. I'm sure you get the vibe just from the exterior. Our condo was very Pottery Barn, so I'm looking forward to breaking out a little and trying something different.

This one had quite the European flavor, which I didn't think I would like. I actually ended up loving a lot of design decisions in this home.

This one reminded me of an office building from the 1980's. It was ultra modern inside though. Not my taste, but interesting to explore.

This last one was ultra stately. I envision a celebrity residing here.

My Favorite Takeaways 

We are in need of a nice entryway table. I kept thinking about the half moon shape of this one.

Let's take a second to think about your dream patio. Mine would definitely have a luscious covered patio area. I truly enjoyed the thought of these built-in grill features.

Now onto a furniture pieces that caught my eye.

The bookcase... gorgeous!

One stunning headboard!

I'll take this sectional.

 ... and this one.

Then I'll ask my husband to create me an authentic fire pit area just like this.

Now for my realistic take-home ideas...

I love the color scheme in this dining room - gold, kelly green and navy paired with neutrals. The colors are crisp and modern, but the furnishings balance out and add some sense of tradition to the room.

I fell in head over heels in love with this horse canvas. Growing up in horse country, this is piece of art that speaks to me. I'm going to make this happen in my house. You just wait and see. :) 

Oh, and here's one more equestrian-inspired piece.

Other Noteworthy Spaces 

Yes, that is indeed a massive telescope inside a home. 

A stunning staircase.

A memorable ceiling.

Plants for days.

Convenient storage.

Unique waterfall.

A b-ball court in the basement.

My favorite noteworthy find! One house featured the same faucet we have in our new home. This was a win in my mind. I'm happy to know I have the same kitchen faucet as a million dollar home.

Have you visited this year's Homearama yet? I would love to hear about your favorite finds!

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H&M Home Blows My Mind

I wouldn't say I'm a die hard fan of H&M clothing, but I have definitely fallen head over heels for their home collection! Plus, their price point can't be beat. Almost everything is under $25. You will be shocked to find the cups below are on sale for $1... yes, 10 for $1! The plates are coming in hot at only $2 for 10. Talk about a deal!

I've been eyeing their floral pattern that mixes with the teal line below.

I'm thinking this is going to the be inspiration for our housewarming party. What do you think? Teal, pink, black, white and gold!

Floral Plates | Pitcher | Floral Cake Stand | Teal Cake Stand

Teal Cups | Teal Cushion | Checkered Tablecloth

Cheers to pretty parties, my friends!

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