Live Creating Yourself.

UPDATE: Live Creating Yourself has moved to alainak.com!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 19:33:00 +0000

That's right...! After six beautiful long years stationed at livecreatingyourself.com, I've decided to make use of a url I bought years ago (ya know, just in case)... so I present alainak.com! New home to Live Creating Yourself, my styling portfolio, and all of my home tours! Not to mention it's got a shnazzy new design and everything. Worry not - all of my old posts and comments are there, too. Transferred over with the click of a button. Ch-ch-check it out! :)

Thanks LCY.com... it's been glooorious!

Dude's Room Update: Painting Before and After

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 22:55:00 +0000

Major progress to report on the teenytiny Dude Room!

Namely, we painted.

To tackle the project, I teamed up with Colorhouse - a new paint available at select Home Depot stores. Not only are they NO-VOCS, no reproductive toxins, no toxic fumes/HAPs-free, and no chemical solvents, but the color palette is amazing. They've curated a beautiful collection of shades, you can't really go wrong no matter what you choose.

See in-store display at Home Depot in Naperville! (Colorhouse will actually be available in the city Home Depots this Saturday!) Lovely, yes?

I knew we wanted a gray, so I narrowed it down to Metal .03 (center swatch) and Wool .02 (far right swatch). The dark swatch on the top is Nourish .06 which I plan on using on the door. That part of the project hasn't happened yet.

A requisite before to trigger your memory.

And here's an in progress shot to show you the drastic difference! The Colorhouse gray paint makes the walls look so much cleaner, brighter!

Furniture going back in...

THE AFTER (kind of)

So here is the room before and as it is now. I am hesitant to use the word after since it is not done... (new bedding is coming, and shelves are being hung in the corner).

We ended up getting a nightstand on clearance from World Market - I think it cost around $70 with the discount. The striped navy rug was an old one of mine I had loaned my mom a while back that barely got used. The black and brass CB2 corner hanging bar was hung above the nightstand for additional storage. The bedside lamp is West Elm which has actually been switched out because 1. even though I love the design, it barely gives off any light, and 2. we hung this wall sconce to clear up all the precious surface area on the nightstand for even more storage (see first photo at the top of the post).

The mini gallery wall is still a work in progress. I love love love the mirror, also a World Market find, and the wall clock and mini gray frame are cheapos from Ikea. The framed Chicago print was one of my first post-college purchases from good ole' Art.com. The buffalo check throw is from Schoolhouse and the Union Jack pillow was one I picked up in New Orleans a couple of years ago.

Crazy what a fresh coat of paint and some accessories can do, no!? Never underestimate the power of styling.

The dude and his roommate love the makeover so much, they now want to repaint the entire apartment. True story. So this "Dude Room" project just got a whole lot bigger! For what it's worth, I definitely plan on using Colorhouse Paint for the other rooms (they have a great selection of whites, which in my opinion is one of the trickiest colors to find)! There was also hardly any paint smell, which is worth its weight in gold, in my opinion. And it only required one coat, which a lot of paint companies promise and rarely deliver on.

I'll let you know as soon as I have more updates!

This post is sponsored by Colorhouse Paint but all of the opinions are my own.

Decorating A Dude Room

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 13:00:00 +0000

i have a new project.

and it's not decorating my own home and it's not everygirl-related. this is VERY exciting people. i don't even know the last time i took on a styling or decorating job just for fun. and the best part is it's a GUY'S room! i've written a few columns on men's style (part 1, 2, 3 and 4) and have dogeared dozens of pages in magazines (virtual and real) that feature men's homes. i always hoped one day some guy would want my help in making his space look good, and finally that day has come.

it's a bit of a challenge because it's a SUPER teeny, tiny, shouldn't-have-been-advertised-as-a-bedroom bedroom. 7' x 8' and no closet. so really it fits a queen bed, a nightstand, and not much else.

i probably wouldn't have been inspired had i not found this terrific item from cb2 only days before...

here it is. the cornerstone of the room. pun intended.

a brass and black corner hanging rod with enough space for a week's worth of clean, pressed shirts. and it's only $40!

i saw the bedroom and thought i know JUST the thing this room needs! so we went online and ordered it. and picked up another goodie as well...

there's about a foot of "room" or dare i call it "walking space" at the foot of the bed with just enough space to throw one of these bad boys in it. the perfect storage for folded sweaters and shoes. vintage locker room meets kindergarten cubbies with the right amount of industrial edge.

now that those two items have made it past the checkout page, i am feeling good about this project. i mean really, there's not a whole lot more we can fit into the teeny room. it definitely needs new bedding, a new nightstand, lighting (perhaps a wall sconce to save precious surface area), and wall decor. and we'll be painting the walls gray, of course.

wait, what's that? you want to see said tiny room?

fine. here it is. in all it's glory.

the ikea malm bed was the roommate's and has since been removed. the jersey, other frames, and "curtain" will be coming down, as well.

it'll be a clean slate. a small slate, at that. but clean, small slate.

the cubby will go at the foot of the bed against the wall. a bed frame or headboard isn't really an option since it just takes up precious space. so what we need now is a new nightstand.

my first stop for nightstand shopping is always west elm. i fell in love with these four styles, particularly the first. west elm has been killing it lately, bringing in one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted pieces made from reclaimed wood, all still for very reasonable price points: $250-400 range.

stria nightstand | lund nightstand | alexa reclaimed wood | mid-century

i researched some budget-friendlier options, as well, sourced from ikea and target.

malm | malm gray | mid-century | dark gray oak

i know he doesn't want to spend $400 on the favorite pick so we'll see... might have to dig out my dusty headlamp and delve deep into the digital caverns of craigslist for a suitable option.

then there's bedding.

while i toyed with the idea of plaid or hunter green, it looked a bit too collegiate when i put together my photoshop mock-up. i love the look but this guy's 28 and looking for something a bit more grown-up. the two styles above from crane and canopy are great - charcoal and black and white.

also like these urban outfitters options - gray arrow motif and double stripe. but maybe too young.

i'm a little worried the gray options will be too much gray with the light gray walls.

and this crane and canopy style is also available in a steel blue. so we'll add it to the list.

so here's what we're working with in terms of the room layout.
gray gray gray

steeeel blue.

i like it.

as you can see from the before photos, the carpet has seen better days, so i think we'll cover it up. love this triangle patterned rug from my go-to resource, rugsusa.

in summation...

OTHER MEN'S STYLE POSTS:

Men's Style Part 1: Always Dress Like You're Going to Run Into Your Ex
Men's Style Part Deux: The Tie Clip
Men's Style Part 3: I have many leatherbound books.

Thoughts on Men's Fashion: Cuffed Jeans

See here: one proud owner of Mauviel copper pots!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 05:20:00 +0000

If you dig deep into the archives of good ole' LCY, you'll find that in month 8 of blogging (that would be January 2010), I named French Mauviel copper pots as a dream wishlist item of mine.

Today, almost five years later, I began my collection.

Thanks once again to the wonderful offerings of Joss and Main, and no, they didn't pay me to say this, I was able to get three pieces for a fraction of the price of what Mauviel pots usually go for! I picked up a large saucepan, a medium sized stock pot (oh so pretty w/ it's gold handles!), and a small frying pan perfect for my morning eggs (only $69 down from $210).

Check out their Go Gourmet sale currently going on for the next four days. But hurry - stuff is selling out rather quickly! Above you'll see a few other favorites of mine, but I of course had to stop at the copper beauties (used up all of my credit in one oh-so-easy fell swoop). But the sale also has Staub and a number of amazing knife brands. Definitely worth checking out!

Visit the Joss and Main Go Gourmet sale here!

Bar Cart Sale on Joss and Main!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 19:01:00 +0000

Hey all! Signing on to share the good news that Joss and Main has a terrific bar cart sale going on right now–it's under the "Toast to Festive Style" sale. If I didn't already have one I loved from Society Social, I'd definitely be snatching up one of these beauties just in time for holiday entertaining and buckets of spiked cider.

I'd probably choose the top right brass style for $178. Which one is your favorite?

25% Off Paris-Inspired Fall Essentials

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 16:19:00 +0000

My recent trip to Paris confirmed one thing... everything I packed last fall worked again this year. With the exception of two new fall trends, slouchy pants and fancy sneakers (preferably Nike), Parisians are still rocking the black and white, classic silhouettes. I actually also noticed the men seem a bit more put together and accessorized while the women look extremely casual. More of a thrown-together look complete with messy hair and little make-up.

Fortunately for all of us, J.Crew does a pretty great job of designing these basics worth investing in and right now everything is 25% off with code #TGIFALL. So here's a list of my Paris-inspired 2014 Fall Fashion Essentials. And I'll be sharing photos from my trip this week and next! Stay tuned!

the accessories:
a great hat
a simple catch-all tote
barrette to pull your hair back
chunky jewelry to jazz up your simple clothes like this necklace and bracelet

hints of leopard like a belt and a scarf

the clothes:
a collarless coat
sexy silk blouse to go with everything
classic white button-down
the perfect sweater
white vneck tee
black skinny pants
black slouchy pants

and the shoes are everything:
oxfords and sneakers are on trend this season
booties and tall leather boots are investments that never go out of style

GET 25% OFF EVERYTHING AT J.CREW USING CODE #TGIFALL
AND AN EXTRA 30% OFF FINAL SALE!

Silver or Gold?

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Tue, 23 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0000

More and more frequently I find myself tiring of the polished brass/shiny gold hardware and accents trend.

Ok ok bold statement. Strike that from the record. Not tiring, per se, but let's just say that a year ago, any time I walked into a store (virtually or in person), I was all...

Now I find myself considering the polished nickel and sterling silver color swatches of an online or in-store purchase. I know. I don't even know myself anymore.

For example. I was in want of a new desk lamp.

Full story goes... we moved my Ikea task lamp upstairs because it wasn't providing enough light in our very dark first floor living area (lots of exposed brick, few light-colored surfaces to bounce the light around, you get the gist). As fate would have it, I received an email from the kind folks over at Lamps.com asking if I wanted to review a product. Um.. yes please! But let me tell you, the site has a vast, almost overwhelming selection. So many lovely options to choose from. To narrow it down, I filtered through to a brand I knew I liked, Hudson Valley Lighting, and there it was: the Thayer 1 Light Table Lamp.

I loved it. It was the size, color, and shape I wanted with a lovely white silk shade perfect for enhancing whatever wattage I put in it.

But there I found myself struggling with a decision I hadn't debated over in a while...

I loved both! I mean - that polished nickel is looking pretty shnazzy, is it not? And I found myself wondering if the brass was going to look out of style in a year or two. Which to get? Silver or gold? After a few days of pining, I made my choice. Old dog, I am. Anticlimatic end to this story, huh?

Well, it arrived. And I love it. And to my delight, it has a dimmer! It's like the gift that keeps on giving! (I'm a BIG believer in the importance of lighting options.)

Pass It On Potluck with Le Creuset

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 01:47:00 +0000

My roomie signed on with Le Creuset to participate in a Pass It On Potluck and asked me to do it too. If I'm being honest, it brought back the best kind of nostalgia to simpler times... when people hand wrote mail and had pen pals in other states (sometimes even other countries! Oooo! Aaaahh!) and the only way you could get ahold of anyone was to pick up the phone and call (and risk long-distance charges) or send them a letter. Remember that? Anyone? No? Well, it was fun stuff.

Anywho back to the Potluck. Le Creuset is sponsoring the really fun concept of a Pass It On Potluck. It's really kind of awesome. This gorgeous Le Creuset Dutch oven in Lapis (that's the beautiful blue color you see on your screen) arrives at your doorstep eager for you to cook up something delightful in it! The only rules are you blog about it or document it in the journal that also comes with it, then pass it on to the next person (the brand will send you the shipping label to print)! So all you have to do is enjoy cooking!

Oh, and clean the pot.

Easy enough, right? Right.

Another truth. I've never cooked anything in a Dutch oven so this was 75% exciting, 25% scary. Fortunately the chilly weather in Chicago's been having has me all excited for fall so I opted to try a new recipe, something I've always wanted to do: a risotto. A baked mushroom risotto to be exact. With dried porcini mushrooms and cremini mushrooms and garlic and white wine... Mmm can you practically smell it? It was good stuff.

I found the recipe at The Kitchn, and it ended up being really easy! I opted to forgo the caramelized onions and craime freche on top like the recipe suggests - it tasted good enough as is. Will definitely be making this again come colder weather. Cozy up on the sofa with a blanket, a glass of Pinot Noir, and all the new fall shows.

SHOP THIS POST

Dutch oven | polka dot towel | gold flatware | white dishware | diamond napkin

Are you going to sign up for the Pass It On Potluck? What would you cook?

photography by Danielle Moss

LCY Yard Sale: Pottery Barn English roll arm sofa - only $600!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Wed, 27 Aug 2014 18:10:00 +0000

Hey gang! I am selling my Pottery Barn English roll arm sofa. I bought it almost 2 years ago for $1800 plus shipping and am selling for $600 or best offer, cash and carry! It will be available in mid-late September. The only reason I am selling is because I have a new sofa (that The Everygirl designed with Chicago-based Interior Define) arriving next month! See more product details here and on PB's site here.

Email me at alaina.lcy@gmail.com if interested with subject line ENGLISH ROLL ARM!

The Everygirl and Birchbox, sitting in a tree!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Mon, 28 Jul 2014 16:30:00 +0000

We are so excited to have teamed up with Birchbox this month to offer an Everygirl box, which will contain five Affordable Luxuries - our favorite beauty products priced under $35.

We can't believe that within an hour, 7500 already-subscribers ALREADY signed up to get this box in August; and now it's only available to new subscribers. So click over and sign up for only $10 to get this sweet deal delivered to your door step in August!

And Danielle and I answered a short q&a with Birchbox about launching The Everygirl, our beauty routine, and the products we chose - check it out here!

photo by Stoffer Photography

#DAcoachhouse: a plan for the bedroom

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0000

I absolutely loved how my bedroom turned out in the last apartment. The custom patterned headboard, the pink lamps, the Eiffel Tower "Alaina" bedding. It was girly to the umpteenth degree and just what I needed in that home. I would have kept everything the same if my job wasn't what it is; but of course, Danielle and I plan on featuring our new place somewhere (fingers crossed a favorite home decor mag, but we'll see), which means I have to mix it up. Magazines and decor sites don't want to publish something that's already made the Pinterest rounds. "Old news" so to speak.

Before showing ya'll the plan, I like to recap how I got to where I currently am so maybe you'll better understand where I hope to go... (so profound)

my bedroom on move-in day

Once I was bit more settled - clearly needed a rug and curtains. Problem is the ceilings on our second floor are crazy low, hanging curtains would look a bit goofy. And all of the curtains I own are hella long from the high ceilings in my last apartments. So curtains and brass rods are sitting in a closet. Sad.

Then I rearranged... I really didn't like how the dresser covered one of the windows. AND I ordered my dream mirror from Wisteria that I've been wanting for forever, and I didn't think leaning it in front of the window would work. I kept the room like this for a couple of weeks and I quickly learned I preferred having access on and off the bed from both sides, and walking in and seeing a big blank wall was just not cutting it.

I developed a plan to put a gallery wall there and went to Minted.com to curate a black and white look. Did you know Minted sold art? Neither did I! I saw an ad in Domino Magazine. Hmm turns out advertising does work!

It's pretty brilliant actually. You can favorite whatever items you like and then create a mock-up of what your gallery wall will look like. Pretty fun. I knew I wanted a mixture of photography and paintings/drawings. See below:

The prints I ended up choosing were (clockwise from top left):

Landing by Neeta Sawhney

Almond Milk by Carolyn Maclaren (because almond milk is my favorite)

Desert Diptych by Annie Clark

Construction by Becky Nimoy

Embrace by R Studio

You can also add custom framing, which was relatively inexpensive compared to most custom frames.

I also found this brilliant work of art and new it was meant for the bedroom. I love things that are a little cheeky.

Moving right along... I knew the bed would have to go back against the wall it was originally on, so I moved it back a couple of days ago. Sometimes I just wake up motivated and make things happen. In an effort to keep the ball rolling in the room redesign, I went to West Elm and picked up their Jute Boucle rug in their lightest color, Ivory, to see how it would look. (It's been a favorite for years; it looks great with any style and you can't beat the price point.)

I came home, laid it out, and it turns out, I love it in the room. The rug looks perfect, actually. (This photo doesn't do it justice.) It brightens the whole space and makes it much cozier.

So here's the new plan (which I didn't mention, I put together back before I even rearranged the room to begin with). I am embracing this neutral-only apartment (my roommate/business partner is adverse to color). And because I didn't really ge to appreciate the bar area in my last apartment (I put it together three days before having to pack it up and move out - solely for the purpose of a photo shoot!), I wanted to recreate something similar. Blacks, whites, gold, a smidge of gray, big gallery wall. Sleek, contemporary, sophisticated, lived-in, and cozy at the same time. Or at least that's the goal.

SHOP THIS LOOK:

Mirror: Wisteria

Lamp: LampsPlus

Dresser: Kathy Kuo Home

Pouf: Joss and Main

Rug: West Elm

Roman shade: Pottery Barn

Nightstand: West Elm

Wall Sconce: Schoolhouse Electric

Antlers: Kathy Kuo Home

Art: (see above)

Headboard: Kathy Kuo Home

Throw pillows: Eskayel (these are sold out but I am OBSESSED and want something similar)

Blanket: Schoolhouse Electric

Sheets: Crane and Canopy

Duvet: Serena and Lily

I love so many different styles... contemporary, graphic, cozy, rustic, frilly and feminine, French country, glam, relaxed beachy country... It's really kinda crazy actually. So I'm attempting to kind of throw it all together in this space and just embrace it. Hence the plaid throw and antlers, paired w/ a gold gilt mirror refined dresser, and sleek wall sconces with graphic photography.

Most of the gallery wall is up. I'm still waiting on the headboard and wall sconces. But so far I love it! Here are a few sneak peeks.

After I started to hang the gallery wall, I quickly ran out of black and white art. So I flipped through an old issue of Vogue, last year's issue w/ Tina Fey, and ripped out a favorite snapshot of one of my favorite role models. I think she works well on the wall!

And then there's this grouping, which I lovelovelove.

All Adventurous Women Do needlepoint art from Furbish

Antler trio very reasonably priced compared to others I've seen from Kathy Kuo Home

So that's that! I unfortunately won't be able to show photos of the finished product until it's photographed and "published," which likely won't be for a long while (hoping next winter). But I'm always posting sneak peeks on my instagram, @alainakaz! Just follow the hashtag #DAcoachhouse to see snapshots of the whole place.

Thoughts?!

2 Dresses for $50? That's what I like to hear.

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Thu, 10 Jul 2014 16:02:00 +0000

And I just hit "Purchase."

I told you I like to buy the same thing in multiple colors - especially when that thing is $25. I'll be bringing these comfy frocks with me to Europe in October!

Everything in J.Crew's final sale section is an additional 50% off right now. USE CODE TODAYONLY at checkout Hop to it!

Here's a few favorites:
This jacket that everyone owns and looks great in (including Claire Dumphey)
These too-perfect-for-summer shoes
Would love to wear this to a summer wedding
And a few favorite accessories like this, this, and these dazzlers

Romp Around

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Tue, 08 Jul 2014 16:14:00 +0000

I love rompers (and maxis and sundresses) so much that I asked our fashion editors at The Everygirl to do a story on these brilliant one-piece wonders. I got my first and only romper from Splendid last year, and it's become a staple in my summer wardrobe. I realize I probably should have included it in My 10 Summer Essentials post. They just make getting ready so easy; no worrying about what to wear with what and if this top matches these bottoms. And if I'm being honest, I feel a skosh more fashionable when I wear it.

A few of the more stylish women I know rocking rompers...

So I used some leftover Shopbop credit and picked up these bebes hoping at least one works out (for anyone who doesn't know, Shopbop offers free shipping and returns. It's awesome.). Yes, that is technically a jumpsuit in there. I absolutely love the look and wanted to try it out. I think it looks tres sophisticated.

striped romper | black | magenta | multi pattern

Are you a fan of the romper?

image sources: black jumpsuit via With Love from Kat // floral romper via Gal Meets Glam // plant romper via Sequins and Stripes // striped romper image via The Everygirl // black romper via Kendi Everyday

The 10 Items Getting Me Through Summer 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 16:39:00 +0000

Anyone who knows me and sees me often enough can attest I wear the same things on repeat with vigor. No shame in it. I find my favorites, I love them, they love me, and I get my money's use. I usually will buy a piece that fits well in multiple colors because, well, why not? If I'm not mixing up the style, at least I can change up the color. These are the ten items I've been wearing on repeat all summer.

Side note: Danielle always asks me how can I wear pants in the summer? Don't I get hot? Well, yes, but I am hot either way. And I'd rather not have the back of my thighs stick to whatever surface I'm sitting on, so light-weight pants are the preferable option (or a dress).

SHOP MY FAVORITES

1. Henry and Belle light-weight denim* $184
2. J Brand white jeans $172
3. Strappy sundresses: pineapple dress $41.50 and blue dress $39.50
4. J.Crew Factory peplum tops $32.99
5. Madewell linen tees $35.50
6. Strappy leather sandals: brown $59.50 and gold $175
7. J.Crew heeled sandals $158
8. Ray-ban blue aviators $170
9. Coach white handbag $219
10. BaubleBar dazzly earrings $34

*These light blue jeans are by a local Chicago brand, Henry and Belle, and are hands-down the most comfortable jeans I've ever worn. They're are so light-weight and stretchy, dare I say they're almost as comfy as yoga pants?

SHOP MORE GREAT OPTIONS

What are your go-to pieces this summer?

Happy 4th of July Weekend!

Shop This Shop: Kathy Kuo Home

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Wed, 02 Jul 2014 12:04:00 +0000

Over recent months I've come to learn of some really great home decor brands popping up online (some aren't new, but they're new to me). Friends are always asking me "Where do you shop?" or "I need a mirror/sofa/rug/fill in the blank - where should I look?" I obviously have my favorites (West Elm, CB2, Joss and Main, etc.). But I really wanted to start sharing these new finds with all of you. So here's a new little series called "Shop This Shop," highlighting my favorite products from my favorite new stores.

First up is Kathy Kuo Home, a New York-based furniture retailer owned by designer of the same name. The RISD-educated entrepreneur has curated the most beautiful collections broken up by style: French Country, Industrial Loft, Rustic Lodge, Coastal Beach, Global Bazaar, and Hollywood Regency (French Country and Industrial Loft are my two personal favorites). I am actually getting a couple of items from her store for my bedroom redesign (including a new headboard! more on that soon).

I literally got lost in a daze, browsing the beige, gold, and grey products for a good hour. Do I want this headboard or that headboard? Do I want this labrador silhouette or that antler trio? Then I started browsing categories I didn't even need like chandeliers and pinning like crazy, planning my imaginary dream home. Every item on every page is lovelier than the last.

LCY Yard Sale: Neutral queen-sized upholstered bed!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 21:59:00 +0000

Hey everyone! So I bought a new bed off Joss and Main on a complete whim and found a different headboard on sale elsewhere that I actually want instead. I know I am crazy. No need to tell me.

So I am selling it! It's literally never been used. The base is still unassembled in a box. Super neutral, nailhead trim, works in any space.

Cash and carry!

Asking $300 or best offer/highest bidder. Retails for over $500 on Wayfair.

Email me at alaina dot lcy at gmail dot com! Would love to see it go this weekend!

Back to the Motherland

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 03:16:00 +0000

I am beyond elated to say that I am returning to the motherland. Europe. (I think of France as the ultimate mothership, calling me home. No, I am not French.) Long story short, my boyfriend and I decided to take a big "dream trip," so we put six dream trips in a hat. They were:

- Spain

- Ireland and Scotland

- Switzerland and South of France

- Prague, Budapest, and Vienna

- Vietnam

- Belgium and Sweden

But Switzerland and France won. Hoorah!

We are researching what we want to do and see, and I'd love any advice you have!

Tickets are booked. We are going in early October over my 29th birthday. We fly into Zurich, traveling westward (probably by train). He wants to ski one day - I am not the best skier, but I'd love to give it a go. Then we are getting a car and touring the French Riviera (Cannes, Marseille, St. Tropez) and Provence before hopping a train up to Paris for two nights and heading home. (Seriously, this won't feel real until I'm actually there.)

I've been browsing hotels and AirBNB and tourism sites, but I love advice from people who have been! We have such limited time everywhere.

Realistically probably 2-3 days in Switzerland, 4-5 in the South of France, and 2 in Paris.

Help! What cities and sites (and wineries) are must sees?

Here are a few things I've discovered:

Chateau de Massillan in Provence, a Mr. and Mrs. Smith Hotel

Then there's this hotel also in Provence I found on Jetsetter. Fancaypants.

This attic apartment in Paris via AirBNB

Definitely want to put my adventure cap on and explore Gorges du Verdon in Provence:

In Switzerland, we want to see/ski(?) the Matterhorn:

and grab dinner at the Aescher Hotel restaurant:

Also heard great things about Lucerne, mainly from Liz.

So many options!

Neither of us have been to Switzerland or the South of France and it seems like every city and village is worth seeing so we are at a loss of how best to attack this!

Help!

LCY Yard Sale: Custom Headboard, Lamps, Rug, and English Roll Arm Sofa!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 23:19:00 +0000

It's true. I am selling my custom headboard. I love love love it, but for many reasons, I am redoing my bedroom (again). Before ya'll think I'm crazy, the answer is no, I don't find it stressful, I love the process! I would absolutely keep it if I had anywhere to store it. Alas, I do not... I really need a temperature controlled storage unit.

Anywho. Prices listed below. Highest bidder gets it!

Email me at alaina dot lcy at gmail dot com if interested! Cash and carry in Chicago area. No shipping.

HEADBOARD AND LAMPS

custom queen headboard in Scalamandre fabric - $600
(would retail for upwards of $2000)

two pink Robert Abbey lamps - $100 each
(originally $260 each)

5x8' rug - $100

(originally $466)

Pottery Barn English Roll Arm Carlisle Grande Sofa 90.5" in Metal Gray Twill
see full product description here
(comes with two back cushions not shown here that have never been used)

Asking $1000 OBO, cash and carry.
(Purchased 1.5 years ago for $1800)

My New (Old) Home Tour on The Everygirl!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Thu, 22 May 2014 21:03:00 +0000

Yep - again! Hah One year later and I'm back with a totally new home tour on The Everygirl! There are a few scenes ya'll haven't seen yet on my blog or Instagram - notably the bar area!

Click on over and enjoy! I linked to pretty much every single product at the bottom of the article.

photos by Jennifer Kathryn Photography

video by Jenna Leigh Kutcher

Wedding Week on The Everygirl!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Mon, 12 May 2014 19:08:00 +0000

I cannot believe it's our third annual Wedding Week on The Everygirl! We started the dedicated week our first year back in 2012 since the topic of weddings was one of the few lifestyle subjects we didn't cover. We thought we'd put it all–fashion, career, decor, finance, relationships and mental health–that touched on the topic of weddings into one jam-packed week.

Well today is the kick-off and we've got an Elopement to Paris fashion feature (my dream!), the Ultimate 12-Month Planning Timeline (with printable checklist!), and a fantastic giveaway from one of our favorite luxury kitchen brands! Stay tuned later this week for stories like "5 Things to Discuss Before Getting Engaged," a career profile on a popular bridesmaid rental boutique owner, and more fashion, food, and decor!

Elopement Wedding in Paris

The 12-Month Wedding Planning Timeline

And later today, a $600 Le Creuset Giveaway from their new matte collection. Delicious.

Our Day with Will

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Wed, 07 May 2014 15:43:00 +0000

Four(?) years ago I met Will Taylor of Bright Bazaar at a lovely and memorable dinner in New York City. We've stayed good blog friends, keeping up with one another's sites and careers, and it's been incredible watching his success grow. Danielle and I met up with him for lunch when we visited London this past fall, making it the second time we've ever hung out in person, and this month, he's been dotting across the United States promoting his new book! We were so excited Chicago was one of his stops, and he asked us to show him around the city on Sunday. The sites we visited were all going to be documented for a post on West Elm's blog Front and Main (they were hosting his book tour), so the talented Maura Stoffer was there to capture everything. It's really incredible seeing beautiful, candid photos from such a special day with friends.

Here's the tour we took Will on...

THE BEAN

MILLENNIUM PARK

WRIGLEY BUILDING/CHICAGO RIVER WALK

GT FISH & OYSTER for brunch

NORTH AVENUE BEACH

LINCOLN PARK

A NEW LEAF

HOTEL LINCOLN ROOFTOP

JAYSON HOME

REBAR at THE TRUMP HOTEL

BAVETTE'S for dinner

Seriously all must-see stops if you're ever in Chicago!

Check out Front and Main for more details including addresses and fun historical facts!

photos by Stoffer Photography

Presenting... decorBase!

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Wed, 16 Apr 2014 16:30:00 +0000

After two years, the long-awaited decorBase.com is here! Several rounds of graphics, an array of programming glitches, and 15,000 products later... we’ve created a platform where you can find everything you want and need to design your home.

decorBase is really great tool for interior designers, design bloggers, and really anyone looking to spruce up a room in their home. The SHOP feature enables users to search and purchase decor items from a multitude of home goods stores from across the web (West Elm, Serena and Lily, Biscuit Home, et al). And if you’re feeling a bit indecisive or don't know how to Photoshop a fancy rendering? CREATE a mood board so you can see how pieces work together in your room. Or browse our database to HIRE an interior decorator who can tailor your room to your exact specifications.

See how the site works in this super sweet video we had made:

What is decorBase? from decorBase on Vimeo.

LAUNCH DAY GIVEAWAY!
To help spread the word AND get design enthusiasts started on their next project, we have a fun giveaway in the works!

Blog, Tweet, and/or Instagram about the launch of decorBase, and enter two win one of three gift cards to the store of your choice whose products are available at decorBase.com!

First Prize: $500 gift card
Second Prize: $300 gift card
Third Prize: $200 gift card

Be sure to tag @decorBase #decorBase so you are entered! Feel free to use the square photo below!

Winner selected Friday, April 18! The more you share, the more you are entered to win!

AND FOLLOW decorBase on SOCIAL!
https://twitter.com/decorbase
http://instagram.com/decorbase
https://www.facebook.com/DecorBase

Life lately...

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Tue, 08 Apr 2014 16:31:00 +0000

Hey world! (Or maybe I should just say "Hey, Mom!" since, let's be honest, she's probably the only one left checking in over here.) Things are busy as always! Busy but great! This month a bit more so...

I went to California for a few days a week or so ago and came home to a letter from my property management that my rent is going up at the end of the lease. It will be more than I can or want to pay so I decided to move! And it's much easier to find apartments in the off-season (NOT summer, July, when my lease is actually up), so I've decided to move out early.

So this month I am:
- traveling for work to NYC
- showing my apartment to try and get it subleased for May and June
- doing media outreach in preparation for the launch of decorBase.com (next week!)
- writing, memorizing, and giving a keynote to the communications school at Illinois State
- finishing up styling projects and making a few changes around this apartment (bar area, "office," kitchen shelves, art in bedroom)
- shooting my home tour w/ the Stoffers (also next week!)
- immediately after that I am packing up said apartment and moving
- and the usual meetings and work for TEG while trying to maintain healthy relationships outside of work
- oh and my niece will be born sometime between now and the first week of May so a trip up to Michigan is in order

I had a wee little-stress-fest last night quickly quelled by a big bowl of mom's homemade chili and a 9:45 pm bedtime. Up at 6 am to conquer the day! (Yes, I need as much sleep as a toddler.)

What's new with ya'll? Anything exciting happen in my absence?

Don't mind me... over here creating myself.

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Tue, 25 Feb 2014 16:21:00 +0000

I decided to take up a new hobby. Truth be told I was inspired by this instagram from Dallas Shaw. I saw it and thought, "I want to to do that."

So last night I marched over to Blick Art Supplies in Lincoln Park (well, drove) and snatched up some pretty Prisma markers just like the one in Dallas' photo. Then I saw Blick sold similar markers for a fraction of the price, and well, considering this lil hobby could go horribly awry (ie I lack any skill) or I could tire of it in a week (typical), I figured I'd start with the $1.88 markers instead of the $3.50 markers.

Now, I don't know if you've ever been in a bonafide art supply store, but they make these markers in every color under the sun. "Putty,""Latte," and "Stone" are all different. Fact. And I bought all of them. I could've gone primary colors - cover my bases. But I thought about what I'd try and draw... and one thing stood out in my mind.

Paris.

So I went with the colors of my favorite city. My mom always said "Paris has its own light."Anyone who's ever been can attest that is true. The color of that city is indescribable. Like you're looking through rose-colored glasses. Everything is softer, hazier, prettier... I figured if I lack any and all skill, at least the colors on the page will be lovely.

So last night, after a late-night meeting with some of the Everygirl editors, I stayed plopped on my sofa, pulled up a photo Danielle took in Paris, and started... drawing? Making it up as I went? Trying to recreate a snapshot of my favorite place.

It turned out ok! I quickly learned I cannot draw straight lines... so instead I just kinda scribble back and forth until a line takes shape. Next, I recreated my living room. Unfortunately, the "Latte" color turned out a lot more pink than beige so the coloring is a bit off... I need to head back to the art store and pick up a proper beige and a lovely gold pen! I think it's really what the living room sketch is missing.

So yea! So far so good. It was so fun, and soothing, and nice to create something NOT on a screen.

Do any of you draw? Or paint? Or picking up a new hobby just for kicks? I highly recommend it!

LCY Yard Sale - Take 2

noreply@blogger.com (Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself) — Fri, 21 Feb 2014 13:00:00 +0000

Well the last sale went so well, I'm selling more things!

Same rules apply:

Email me at alaina.lcy@gmail.com with the item name and your offer before midnight on Sunday!

If a better offer comes in between yours and the sale closing time, I'll email you and let you know, and you have the option to out bid.

Cash and carry within the week. No shipping.

Teal Birdcage
$50 or best offer

Antique Wooden and Marble Side Table (the birdcage is on)
legs are very wobbly; it's an antique, marble top not in great condition but really pretty!
$75 or best offer

Ladder
$100 or best offer

West Elm metal side table
$50 or best offer

Let me know if you're interested in anything!