Seaside Finds

Recently when I was at Pottery Barn, I had one of those rare "I want absolutely everything in the store" moments. Seriously... they have SO many fantastic things right now, it was difficult to pick a couple things to post here...

The coral, shells, drift wood, glass baubles and various other natural accents they had would bring a seaside vibe to any home.

this worn wood "Markham" table was absolutely gorgeous, and could transform any odd corner of a house into a stunning bar.

Eating outside is one of summer's greatest pleasures. Wouldn't it be fun to entertain with these?

These jars are just so lovely... wouldn't an orchid growing in them be pretty?

[ via ] pottery barn

I have always thought a mason jar was a really fun, yet vintage way to serve drinks. And this summer, its all the rage! I have seen them everywhere. This Mason Jar pitcher would be perfect for sweet summer tea!

A Striped Obsession

Normally, I am really interested into a trend, will buy into it in some affordable way or another (like a pillow), and then my obsession is over. However, this particular item I just simply can't get over...

Many of you are probably long past it, but something about this rug speaks to me. I am convinced it works in every single room, and is something you can hang onto for a long time. Or possibly the fact that its affordable is so appealing ($279 at Ikea!).  The first time I saw the similar one in Nate Berkus' living room, I knew I had to have one someday...

it grounds neutrals...

and is stunning with color...

[ via ] lonny mag, right bank, house and home, art that fits

not to mention... black and white never goes out of style!

Wanting a Watermelon Room

This simple, fun, and perfectly punchy room has been on my mind with summer around the corner. It's so light filled and bright, and the color of pink borders being overly feminine and just right. I knew this room might be an easy re-creation, so hopefully those of you wanting to revamp a room in time for summer guests, this will give some inspiration! 

These lovely shades of coraly-pink would all work for painting these furniture items. I love all of them, but I think I personally, would go for "lipstick"! For under a little more than $400, you can buy all the necessary furniture, and all you have to do is set aside an afternoon to paint it!

To finish the room off, and give it a little pizazz, I love these hammered metal lamps, or silver mercury glass lamps, HomeGoods has a wealth of options tight now. As for bedding, soft white pin-tuck from west elm is sweet, and organic. Finally, to add that extra punch, a soft apple green throw casually tossed on the bed! This one from Crate and Barrel is only $30!

Keel's Simple Diary

To be honest, I'm really not one to keep a diary.  Keel's Simple Diaries however caught my attention. Maybe because my nearest and dearest have called me "Keel" for short for as long as I can remember, or maybe just because I have read others rave reviews on them. I didn't realize that its a "fill in" journal. A few quirky things to fill in and circle each day on every page would take a maximum of 2 minutes. M and I both bought them and look forward to filling them in each night, they're pretty silly, and I think it will be fun for us to look back on, they would also make a great gift!

I got mine at Barnes and Noble if you are looking for one.  Are any of you keeping a Keel's Simple Diary?

Spice and Tea Exchange

I love the opportunity to tout a local business that I love, and while I may discuss these locales with my friends, it is rare that I am so in love with one I just want to shout it from the rooftops. But, The Spice and Tea Exchange has got me singing its praises. Originally I thought it was just one little store here in Winter Park, but there are several other locations throughout the country..  I'm not lying when I say you will die and go to heaven in this store. Every single wall is jam packed with spices, herbs, teas, all different types of sugars and salts you had no idea even existed. The best part? They mix it all themselves. I literally could ramble on for the next four hours, but I will just let you see for yourself...

they have everything you could possibly need to go along with your blends, beautiful mortar and pestels, tea strainers, and containers to suit the masses.

If there isn't a location near you, call the one in Winter Park, or shop online. Bryan and Jeffrey who own the store are the nicest, most helpful guys and have a true passion for their unique little niche.  There is no question that the quality of their product is far superior to any other offerings.  I even brought in my own containers to create a tea basket as a gift, they helped me create and package it and the recipient loved it!

I have so many favorites here, how could you not love anything unique, fresh, and super yummy! My true obsessions are the almond cookie tea (a dessert in itself), tuscany and coastal blends, as well as Vik's garlic fix. The tuscany and garlic fix you can mix into olive oil to serve with bread.  I recently served this at a dinner party along with salmon seasoned with the coastal blend and it had my guests running out to get it for themselves. 

You are seriously missing out if you haven't already tried this, believe me, it is well worth the visit or stop by their website.  Here is the Winter Park locations email: winterpark@spiceandtea.com

Ruffles and Buttons and Lace, Oh My!

OK, I have to be perfectly honest with you. I was a little embarrassed about having gone into this store (as originally I was on a J.Crew mission), I know it can be pretty juvenile, but, this particular Forever 21 was so brand new, so well organized, so I went in. Pleasantly to my surprise, it was SO not juvenile. It was full of some great pieces (at really great prices) for the working girl.  And while I mulled over sharing this with you (I know, its just silly that I wouldn't) I couldn't not share some of their "Twelve by Twelve" line which is completely french inspired, so girly and feminine. 

While I loved pretty much everything I found, and was surprised by the fit, my favorite buy were the lace shorts (pictured center)  So. Maybe if you're going out shopping this weekend... its worth a look!

[ via ] forever 21

Casually Chic

The new spring line from J.Crew is so casually chic. I wish I could look this effortlessly stylish this everyday. There is nothing outstandingly amazing. Just simple. Chic. I'm headed to J.Crew

[ via ] J. Crew

Smitten

I want these items... all of them. Its not like I have a home decorated in neutrals with nature accents, but, sometimes I wish I did. All of these items I definitely don't need, nor have the space for, but I would be more than happy to accommodate them if they showed up on my door step. First I fell in love with the horn table, I just think they are so cool. Then, my attention was directed to the faux horn nesting tables, and on.. and on... and on. Grain sack slipcovered parsons chairs... and how oh so cool would that wreath frame look amongst other beautiful frames on a gallery wall? Also, that hot pink x-bench... drooling. I'm just going to stop, otherwise I might go on all day.  If you are as smitten with these items as myself, go over to FCL Style and indulge yourself.

1. French Faux Horn Nesting Tables  2. Horn Side Table  3. Tied Up in Knots Table Lamp  4.Fallsburg Chair  5.Boxwood Square Wreath 6. Rolan Tabouret, Fuchsia

I (Heart) Sarah and Bendrix

It being Valentines week, some cute hearts, pink and red, x's and o's are definitely in order. These adorable works of art from Sarah and Bendrix in the UK are so very sweet, and something you can display all year.  I can't decide which one is my favorite... what about you?

Serving Up Sweetness

Friday I'm hosting a big dinner party, and I am really hoping to impress my guests with a great food presentation on my kitchen island. I've been looking for some great servingware and I came across this new collection from Rosana Inc. on Real Simple. Its all so sweet!

{via} real simple

One of each please!

Hopelessly in Love

... with the Etsy shop Hopeless. SUCH beautiful pieces, clearly guaranteed to make you feel lovely.

Shop Luxe + Lillies

I've been so excited to share this! I finished this dresser last week and have already begun work on another piece, I will share as soon as I finish! I have always thought giving furniture new life was a fun project and have done so with pieces for my own home. A new extension of l + l will by my new furniture shop! Here is one of the first pieces that I have finished with the purpose of parting with it to go to a great home!

before

after

if you are interested in purchasing this piece, email me!

A Couple Quirky Finds

It's fun to have some quirky things around the house. Not exactly standout pieces, but ones that people see after a little while at your house, and always comment on. I LOVE the placemat!

the bazaarium

anthropologie

anthropologie

I'll Play Your Game, If You Play Mine

Speaking of games... the less conventional, always the more fun (games called "basket case" have to be fun, right?)   Entertain any of your party guests with some from this selection...

1. Jonathan Adler  2. Perpetual Kid  3. Patina  4. Table Topics  5. Patina Stores  6. Jonathan Adler

Happy Monday!

HappIEST Monday... Its a Thomas Paul giveaway from AllModern.com!

I'm so excited about this because Thomas Paul makes some of my absolute favorite stuff! His patterns are gorgeous, and his quality even better! Not to mention, so many great schemes in so many fun patterns and delicious colors to complement. If you haven't checked his stuff out.. you must! by clicking here

To enter the giveaway browse through the collection below and leave a comment telling me what two items are calling your name! Don't forget to leave your email address or check back by friday I will post for the winner.

Enjoy!

A Martini Please...

Elegant and pretty bar trays and consoles are such pretty little things. They make the perfect display for an empty, unknowing space, and provide refreshment at your finger tips when you or a guest is in need. Couldn't you just see Dorothy Draper so elegantly pouring up some drinks from one of these!

If you have a dresser or armoire laying around that is in great shape or could be refurbed, thats a great option, if not these would be equally (if not more) fabulous!

1. West Elm  2. Z-Gallerie  3. AllModern.com  4. Z-Gallerie  5. Walmart  6. Restoration Hardware  7. Ikea  8. Restoration Hardware

Regency Glamour via Target

Being that Target lover that I am (seriously, where else can you buy all these fun goodies along with your cleaning supplies in one stop?) I was there yesterday and came across their new line, and had to share it. They have some really fantastic pieces at some really fantastic prices! The colors and the patterns are so well complementing. Even one of these pieces would give a room the extra little shine.

Click here to see the complete collection!

Perfect Spring Pairings

The bags are a little bigger, and the colors a little brighter this spring!... I love it!  When spring dawns its always fun to pull out the brighter things, and indulge in a new pair of sunglasses. Here are some fun finds for THIS spring season!

1. Gucci 2. Coach 3. Kate Spade 4. Carrera 5.Kate Spade 6. Dooney&Bourke 7. JPK Paris  8. French Connection