5 ways to get an editorial-inspired look (without a major remodel) in your kitchen

Remember when I mentioned I recently accepted a new full-time job? Well it's with a home builder, which means I look at beautifully constructed and decorated homes all day, every day. Talk about the perfect job for a home design enthusiast!

Boy has this job got my wheels turning. Every day, I'm inspired to change up things in my own home - whether that be moving furniture around or adding new must-have items to my wish list. In particular, I'm been thinking about how you can achieve a luxury look without dropping a crazy amount of money. Of course, that has always been my goal though.

So, today let's talk about how to turn your kitchen from drab into fab with these go-to tricks for kitchen styling. Even without a remodel, you can add personality to your space, which, after all, is the hub of the home, right?

To gain an editorial/magazine quality look in your home, I recommend looking for the following textures in accent items and putting these items on display or to work in your kitchen. I promise you can find all of these components at obtainable stores like Home Goods, TJ Maxx, World Market, Target, Hobby Lobby or even your local grocery store.

Next time you're out shopping, look for items with the following finishes:

Marble

Inspiration via Terrain

I know... you're probably thinking, "I can't afford marble countertops." Do not fear. There are so many other ways to add marble. Think cutting boards like the ones displayed above, a trivet, a rolling pin, a cake stand or even a soap dispenser. All these items are practical, but can easily be stored on the counter top as part of your decor.

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A lumberjack party filled with flannel and fun

We recently celebrated my best friend's son's first birthday. Of course, I want to lend a hand whenever Julia throws a party, but this one was extra special, because her son is also my godson. This is Julia's third child, and each year when one of their birthdays comes around, I always throw out themes I am dying to explore (because up until this point, I didn't have a child of my own).

This time around, I suggested a festive flannel, lumberjack party. Have you seen the endless amount of inspiration out there on Pinterest? With so many ideas to explore and it being a winter month, it seemed fitting. Plus, we can all get behind red and black buffalo check, right?

Here are a few shots her cousin, the photographer behind Ashley Robertson Photography, shared with me from the big day:

Julia found plenty of free lumberjack-themed printables online to use as cupcake toppers and party signage, and we ended up scoring big at Target's after Christmas sale. We discovered a full line of buffalo check items - tablecloths, favor bags, placecards, napkins, cups, etc. - all at 50% off. Plus, we were able to repurpose holiday decor items we already owned - think trees, garland, and reindeer. Additionally, I dug through my summer entertaining stash and pulled out some lanterns.

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In search of the perfect wall calendar

I recently accepted a new job and am settling into my new office. As I start to get a feel for my space, I'm constantly making a mental note of what I need to make the spot feel complete. My personal preference is a tidy desk with beautiful, yet functional elements. I believe your space should make you feel organized and inspired.

Last year, I lucked out and found a beautiful wall calendar at Target's Dollar Spot for only $3. It was pretty huge and served dual functions: pretty art and an at-a-glance reference of dates. I was holding out, hoping that Target would rollout a similar calendar this year, but no such luck.

I've been forced to explore other (read: more expensive) options. I've scoured the local stores, Etsy and Instagram looking for that perfect find. Then I thought, if I'm putting this much effort into the search for a beautiful wall calendar, perhaps other people are looking for the same thing and would benefit from my finds, or perhaps people have better suggestions.

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