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?