Oleander and Palm

Instagram Q + A - Casual Cottage Master Bedroom

2016-03-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I had a little Q + A over on Instagram. I love helping folks solve design and decorating dilemmas, so I said "ask away". I chose 3 of the questions to answer in a little more depth.

Ashlee's Master Bedroom is the first room I'm going to try to offer some assistance with. Here's what Ashlee had to say about the space:

"We live in an old cottage, with small rooms and every single wall in our bedroom has a window, door, etc. The longest wall hosts out bed, but it has an off-center window right behind our headboard. I have struggle for 5 years with either hiding it and making it seem like it's not there or embracing it and balancing the off-settness with art or something." (You can see pics of the room below.)

We chatted I bit about colors and existing furniture. She likes orange, coral, teal-blue and navy. Her bedding is a nice solid grey and the walls have just been painted a pale grey as well. And she isn't attached to the furniture or lamps at all.

1. Terracotta Vase

2. Coral Vase

3. Retro Blue Vase

4. Asymmetrical Mirror Set

5. Mid century Headboard

6. Black Nightstand

7. Wall Lamp

8. Black and Gold Lamp

9. Ikat Pillow

10. Lattice Pillow

11. Navy Squares Pillow

12. Peach and Orange Striped Throw

13. Mid century Nightstand

Here's what I suggest for this space:

1. I think you have to embrace the asymmetrical window situation. I think there are a couple things that could be done to help achieve a bit more balance. First, I suggest the funky pair of mirrors hung over the bed to the left of the window. I also think in small rooms, you need to let in as much natural light as possible. A lower profile, slatted headboard would feel less bulky and not block the window as much. I am in LOVE with this mid-century headboard from Target, you guys, it's only $100!!! And losing a foot board will make the space feel a lot more open.

2. It's not going to be a symmetrical room, so let's not be matchy-matchy. I love mismatched nightstands and lamps. They make a room feel a lot more casual and collected over time. This also gives you a chance to do something a little more feminine on on side and masculine on the other. Mixing wood and painted pieces is totally fine, I give you permission!

3. You know I love grey, but let's also have some fun with colorful, patterned accent pieces. Different shades of orange and navy blue are always going to be a hit. Anytime you can play with complimentary colors, bland will never occur.

Do you have any other suggestions for Ashlee to help her solve her wonky window situation? I'd love to hear. Stay tuned. I've got a couple more Q + A rooms I'm going to tackle.

Cricut Gold - Half Moon Wall Hanging

2016-03-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

I'm a huge fan of a wall hanging. They are a casual, relaxed way to bring color and pattern to a space. They are also usually a more frugal options over framed art.

Well, I'm still having fun with my Cricut Gold Explore Machine. When I was asked to create some exclusive designs for Cricut's Gold Explore Machine for JoAnn Fabric Store (check it out here, under Die Cut Machines, Supplies and More at Joann.com), I knew I wanted them to feel clean, modern and have midcentury modern vibe. This half moon shape might be my new triangle. If you've followed O+P for a while now, you know that I've been known to use a triangle here and there. But, move over triangles, I might have a new favorite shape.

Using iron-on vinyl in white, black and gold, I placed these half moon shapes in a random pattern. Whether you have a Cricut Explore machine or not, This is an easy project to make. By cutting ovals in half and placing the pairs together with a small gap, you can recreate this look. But, of course using the Cricut's Make-It-Now feature is the easiest way to do this. All the materials and instructions for this wall hanging are listed, there's no guess work, just click and cut. HERE's the how-to.

*This post contains affiliate links. If you do purchase something through those links, I get a percentage. Thank you for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

Cricut Gold - Throw Blanket with a Geometric Patterned Edge

2016-03-12T14:50:00.001-08:00

On Thursday I shared a fun collaboration I worked on with Cricut and JoAnn Fabric Stores. Today I'm sharing another one of the fun designs I put together for the exclusive Cricut Gold Explore for JoAnn Fabric Stores (check it out here, under Die Cut Machines, Supplies and More at Joann.com).

Give a plain throw blanket a custom look with this geometric edge. With a roll of metallic gold iron-on vinyl, I made this white throw feel like something special. The Make-It-Now feature in the Cricut Design Space™ app, makes creating so easy. All the materials and instructions for that project are all listed, there's no guess work. HERE's the how-to.

Stay tuned, I've made lots of fun things for my home with this new Cricut Gold Explore Machine.

*This post contains affiliate links. If you do purchase something through those links, I get a percentage. Thank you for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

Black Fireplaces

2016-03-11T07:49:00.001-08:00

A couple years ago I painted our fireplace white in our living room, even the inside of it. We used to have a little wood pellet stove, but when it died, we decided not to replace it. I wanted to make the space feel light and bright. Now, with my new found love of black, I wonder how the space would feel painted in this dramatic way.

I'm working with a local client. Their fireplace and mantel is currently a creamy white color and is very traditional. I'd love to use a charcoal, navy or black paint to give the fireplace a more modern, unexpected look.

Here's a few examples of that look pretty great.

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In small doses, black can be a show stopper. I'm not ready to cover a whole wall, but a little splash of black here and there feels a bit like wearing a black tie, put-together and buttoned up.

What do you think? Black or charcoal grey feels pretty safe and neutral. What about a dark navy or denim blue, to risky? I'd love to hear what you think.

Cricut Gold Explore Machine - Pillows

2016-03-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

I am excited to announce a fun partnership I have been working on with Cricut and JoAnn Fabric Stores. You already know I'm a huge fan of my Cricut Explore Air™machine, I use it all the time for lot's of different projects. And now, Cricut is offering an exclusive Cricut Gold Explore Machine at JoAnn Fabric Stores only ( check it out here, under Die Cut Machines, Supplies and More at Joann.com). With this pretty gold machine comes some fun exclusive designs and projects. You guys, some Oleander + Palm designs are preloaded on this machine! I've designed a bunch of patterns and designs to bring a little, or a lot of gold into your home.

And here's your first look at some of my designs. Pillows are the easiest way to add pattern, color and style to a space, so I've created 5 fun pillow designs.

The Make-It-Now feature in the Cricut Design Space™ app, makes creating so easy. All the materials and instructions for that project are all listed, there's no guess work. HERE's the how-to.

If you have the new Cricut Gold machine you can make all of these pillow with the press of a button.

For these pillows I used 12" pillows is solid white, grey and black. Using Cricut's Iron-On vinyl in black, white, gold and gold glitter (available at Cricut.com), I created custom, graphic pillows for my home.

Stay tuned, I've got lots of more fun ways to use Oleander + Palm designs with the new Cricut Gold Explore Air. If you've been considering getting a Cricut Machine, now is the time to do it! This exclusive gold machine for JoAnn Fabric Stores has so much to offer.

*This post contains affiliate links. If you do purchase something through those links, I get a percentage. Thank you for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

Kiwi Mojitos

2016-03-09T08:20:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since a shared a mocktail recipe with you. I'm on a mission to create some fun drinks the whole family can enjoy. With St. Patrick's Day right around the corner, I needed to come up with a fun green drink. With this drink in hand on March 17th, you'll definitely be pinch proof.

Kiwis are such a unique fruit. They are tart and sweet and paired with mint to make a super refreshing drink. I love the speckles of black seeds in this pretty drink.

Kiwi Mojitos

4 kiwis
2-3 limes
1/2 cup sugar
fresh mint leaves
club soda
crushed ice

Start by making the kiwi puree. In a blender, place 3 1/2 kiwis peeled and halved, the sugar, lime juice and about 2 tbsp. fresh mint leaves. Blend on high until it is a smooth puree. If it is too thick add a little more lime juice.

Fill glasses with ice. Pour about 1/3 cup puree over the ice and then top off the glass with club soda. Give it a stir and then garnish with a slice from the half a kiwi that is left and a sprig of mint leaves. And if you are looking for a grown up version, no one is going to stop you from adding a little rum.

Puree can be made ahead and stored in the fridge up to 24 hours. Makes 6 generous drinks.

Be sure to check out my other mocktail recipes.

Illustrated Family Portrait GIVEAWAY!

2016-03-07T11:43:00.001-08:00

I've teamed up with my friend and talented, local illustrator Katie Lemster, to bring you a really fun giveaway this Monday morning. Recently, I sent Katie a simple iphone pic of our family and she turned it into a fun illustrated portrait. I love it so much! It's such a fun keepsake to have and she really nailed everyone (even Pumpkin made it in the shot).

Don't you want one of your fam? You can enter to win a custom family portrait. Just head over to THIS Instagram post to enter to win. Be sure to follow Honey I Love You Shop on Instagram, to see more of her fabulous work.

The Weeks End

2016-03-04T11:59:00.001-08:00

Good week, bad week - that's how I feel about the last 7 days. I'm trying to focus on the good stuff mostly. Life is like that, It's really just kind of as good as you make it, but the hard stuff really likes to take over our thoughts and feelings.

I found these pretty flower pics on my camera, just some extra shots from the little heart shaped arrangement I shared a couple weeks ago. These blooms were just too pretty not to share again.

Here's a few things you need to check out:

-Yep, PJ knows style! I want a couple things on her Wish List, especially those sunnies.

-This is a fun hashtag project, you're going to want to tag all your bright and color pics #colorblockingvibes

-If you haven't already, you must check out Studio DIY's wedding pics. So pretty!

-You had me a Baked Brie! You have to check out Sarah Heart's latest video, Baked Brie Bites. She's been making some awesome videos, be sure to check them all out!

-Maybe your tired of hearing about it, but if you haven't already GO CHECK OUT Target's new Pillowfort Kid's Home Line. So many fun pieces.

-And last but not least, be sure to take a peek at The Crafted Life's colorful Bedroom/Office makeover!

Have a great weekend friends!

Black Cabinets

2016-03-03T08:03:00.000-08:00

My obsession with black continues. Yes, I love it on exteriors and in entryways, and now I'm considering it for cabinets in my laundry room. When we renovated our kitchen, we took over the old laundry room space and then added on a new laundry room to the back of the house. But, almost 6 years later, we still haven't finished this room. The washer and dryer are of course hooked up and working, but there is just a temporary cabinet in there (that has one door broken off) and plumbing for a sink that doesn't exist yet.

Every year I say, "this is the year we finally finish the laundry room", and then every year it just doesn't happen. Not in 2016, I'm determined. Last weekend I even made a trip to IKEA to look at cabinets and start laying out this tiny space. I really just want a couple cabinets for vacuums, mops and cleaning supplies, a sink and hopefully a place to set up my sewing machine. Since this is such a small space, I'd love to try something dramatic like black cabinet doors. Here's a few examples of black cabinets done right.

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I'm considering the Tingsryd cabinet doors from IKEA. They are super economical and I think they have that modern shape I'm looking for. And for hardware, I think I have no choice but to do some brass or gold nobs or pulls. What do you think?

Comfortable Ankle Boots You Can Wear All Day

2016-03-02T15:30:00.002-08:00

This Fall, Winter and now Spring, ankle boots have been my go-to foot wear. I love them with jeans and leggings and also with skirts and dresses. I own numbers 4. and 7. below, these are both boots that you really can walk in all day long and your feet still feel good.

When it comes to investing in shoes these days, I no longer feel like a can wear shoes from Target or other discount stores. My feet and back just can't take it. Now I'm just sounding like an old lady, but that's kind of what I am. So, when it comes to shoes, I like to buy a brand that is known for some comfort and support.

One of my favorite online sources for good quality shoes, at great prices, is 6pm.com. You'll want to visit their site often because each day they offer a new sale and a daily deal. They carry all the brands I love, like Lucky, Clarks and Born. I've shopped around and found 7 great ankle boot options for you.

1. // 2. // 3. // 4. // 5. // 6. // 7.

Are you more of a brown leather or black leather person? I thought I was all about brown, but I find myself wearing my black boots quite often.

(Gold Foil Kindness is the New Black shirt available HERE!)

This post is sponsored by Groupon. Thank you for supporting the brands that help make this blog possible.

DIY Jewelry and Trinket Dishes

2016-02-26T09:09:00.000-08:00

I've felt like I've been just too busy to make and create lately. And that has left me feeling kind of drained and uninspired. So, I decided I needed to take a couple minutes to use my hands and make something. If you are looking for a quick and easy weekend project, this is a good one. Perfect for gifts or just to sit on your bedside table or bathroom counter, they serve as a fun, decorative way to organize and store your valuables.

I played with all my favorite patterns - grid, triangles and simple brush strokes. But, the possibilities are endless. You can paint any color and any pattern, as simple or as complicated as you want.

Here's what you'll need:

Martha Steward Glass Paint (Black Gloss)
Small paint brushes
Small ceramic or porcelain appetizer plates

Play with patterns and shapes to create a design that goes with your decor. I love black and white, but you could use any color combination. Allow the paint to completely dry (follow the instructions on the bottle), but I let these dry for a couple days.

Have a great weekend and be sure to make a little time to create or make.

Black Exteriors

2016-02-25T08:06:00.000-08:00

Does anyone want to buy a cabin in the woods and I'll design and decorate it for you? I love the idea of a simple weekend home that is minimally decorated and has a dramatic black exterior. I can't get enough of these black exteriors. I love this bold choice of color for staining wood siding or even painting brick. It feels modern and a bit of risky choice, which I love!

Black with Large Windows

Black Terrace

Black Two Story

Black Midcentury

Black Siding and Black Doors

Black Brick

Like the dramatic Black Entryways I found, how do you feel about this strong color choice?

Book Review - Modern Pastoral

2016-02-23T08:09:00.000-08:00

I have been a long time fan of Nikki Brantmark's blog My Scandinavian Home. So, when I heard that she had a new book, Modern Pastoral, I knew I needed a copy for myself. If you love good Swedish design, you MUST follow her beautiful blog. Nikki takes you into some of the most beautifully simple, clean Scandinavian homes out there. If you've followed me for long, you must know how crazy, in love I am for all things Swedish.

I'm still a sucker for a good hardcover, coffee table book. Yeah, you can find pretty much everything on Pinterest, but there is something special about taking time to hold a real book and enjoy the curated images and stories that have be crafted together.

This gorgeous book takes you through some lovely interiors photographed in Scandinavia and the United States. "All are inspried by natural landscapes, making use of exposed wood and stone, large windows to let in light and plants and greenery - yet adding warmth, too, through color, fabrics, and all the personal touches that create a home."

The book is divided into 4 chapters - Forest, Graphical, Homestead and Waterside. I found myself drawn to the second chapter, Graphical, the most. These homes features clean, colorless palettes with a beautiful balance between natural, rustic elements and bold, geometric patterns. The homes are far from cold and sterile, warmth and comfort are added with natural fibers, sheepskins, and plenty of foliage from the outdoors.

For the past few months I've been pinning and drooling over gorgeous black exteriors on homes and cabins. The Woodland Valley Cabin in this chapter is absolute perfection, as far as I'm concerned. Gorgeous black stained siding on the exterior is complimented by bright, white, open rooms inside. The accessories throughout this home are minimal and clean and it has me inspired to pair down and simplify my home even more.

If you love a good design book, this is one you are going to need to add to your collection.

Be sure to head over to Instagram where I am giving away a copy of this gorgeous book. Check out THIS post for all the giveaway details.

Black and White Pillows - The Accessory for Every Season

2016-02-22T07:15:00.002-08:00

I think everyone is getting Spring Fever pretty bad these days. I see pastels EVERYWHERE! And I'm a fan of them as well (especially pink). If you are thinking about sprucing up your home decor this Spring, but want a style that works all year long, black & white is the answer. You just won't get sick of this timeless combination. And black and white looks good with everything, pastels, brights, patterns, and even neutrals.

I have found you some great black and white pillows that are sure to freshen up your bed or sofa this season, and all the seasons to follow.

2 // 3

4 // 5

6 // 7

The two Kilim pillows (3 and 7) are on my sofa, and I LOVE them. Do you have a favorite in this mix?

Metallic Gold Framed Art

2016-02-19T08:34:00.002-08:00

It might be a small addiction, but I just can't get enough of gold accents in my home. I love the vintage feel it adds to a room. If you asked me what I thought of gold frames a couple years ago, I'd probably think of the family photos that hung in my mom and grandma's house in the 70's and 80's. Metal frames do feel a little like a throw back, but done in clean modern lines, they are current and even a little trendy. Now I don't think you should fill your home entirely with trends, but it is fun to have a few here and there.

I've long been a fan of Minted art prints, and now they offer metal frames in matte brass, brushed silver, champaign silver, matte copper and matte black. I teamed up the Minted to change up my entryway up a bit and add some fun matte brass framed pieces. The largest piece, called Green Forest, added a huge dose of my favorite color to the room. I tend to stick with greys, blacks and whites, and it can feel a little too neutral. This giant punch of bright green adds some energy to my living room. I paired it with black and white mountain climbing print, called Summit, for my husband and one of Emily Jeffords gorgeous sky paintings called, Mornings Away.

I decided to hang these prints in a nice neat, evenly spaced square grid. Hung over my credenza like this, they act as one large scaled piece together. When picking art to go together, I suggest 3 tips to make the process a little easier. Really anything goes if you love the art and it speaks to you. But, if you are a rule follower, these tips might be helpful.

Pick one or two colors that will repeat in the art. For mine, I picked the color green.
At least one of the pieces should be black and white. This graphic element adds interest and always feels sophisticated.
Consider variety in the detail or pattern of the images. I made sure to chose three pieces that all had a different pattern. For example, the black and white mountain image is very tightly patterned. The large green forest painting is made up of bigger, almost chunky brush strokes, so it's pattern is a little loser. And finally the sky image is very smooth and fluid.

I'm really glad I went with these gorgeous matte brass frames. I found myself always picking between black and white frames, because I wanted to stay neutral and timeless. But, adding a little metallic element is a fun, way less boring neutral to decorate with.

This post is sponsored by Minted. All my opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

Camel Colored Leather Sofas

2016-02-16T13:12:00.002-08:00

Ok, I'm definitely not in the market for a new sofa. I still REALLY love mine, but maybe one of you are considering and new sofa and would like some help. If I was to buy I sofa right now, it would be a gorgeous camel colored leather sofa with clean, mid century lines. I don't think you would get tired of this color quickly and I believe it gets better with age.

This light tan, camel color is a great neutral color option. It can be accessorized with just about any color. If feel a little retro, but very sophisticated. Say no to chocolate brown leather, this camel color feels a lot more modern and current. Check out the great examples I found of a light tan colored leather sofa used in some gorgeous living rooms.

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So, what do you think? It's a pretty great look, don't you think? Do you have a favorite from this selection. Mine is probably the West Elm Hamilton sofa seen in the 4th and 7th images. I love the piping and the clean, narrow arm on that sofa.

DIY Reversible Valentine's Day Clutch

2016-02-12T15:15:00.002-08:00

Valentine's Day is just about here. And I have one last DIY for you. Whether you have a date or not, this clutch is going to be perfect for a night out on Valentine's Day. I customized a couple simple clutches (that I found at Forever 21) with #single on one side and #taken on the other. So, even if you don't have a valentine yet, get out their and carry your #single bag with pride. Who knows, maybe some single guy is looking for you.

I used my Cricut Explore Air™ machine to cut out iron on letters in gold glitter for the denim clutch and white for the linen clutch. But, you can also buy iron-on letters at the craft store, like these.

And please meet my adorable model and intern, Val. Yay for me! I have a obviously cute, but also super smart and stylish assistant now.

Now that you have the bag, let's fill it with some date night essentials:

Vaseline Lip Therapy Tins, for soft kiss-ready lips

sunglass (because I live in sunny California)

hair Clips for any hair disasters

gum or mints for fresh kissable breath

wallet and keys

phone (because we can't live without them)

travel sized perfume

nail file

pen or pencil

mirror

New Vaseline Lip Therapy Tins are a popular U.K. must-have and now they are available stateside in these iconic tins. These tins contain 100% pure and safe Vaseline Jelly and are clinically proven to help heal dry lips and provide long-lasting moisture. And they are available at Target.

Your guys, I've got these lip tins everywhere - in my car, by my bed, in my purse and at the studio. My lips are happy! No more dry cracked lips for this girl.

This post is sponsored by Vaseline. All my opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

Grapefruit Mint Sorbet

2016-02-11T07:51:00.000-08:00

I don't know what I love more about this recipe, the pretty peachy pink color or the taste. Ok, taste wins because this sorbet is so bright and fresh. Sweet, tangy grapefruit paired with refreshing mint make this delicious icy dessert. I do love chocolate, but if this sorbet and a slice of chocolate cake were put in front of me, I'd probably go with this Grapefruit Mint Sorbet. No lie, it's that good friends.

This sorbet has simple ingredients and is very easy to make.

Grapefruit Mint Sorbet

4 cups of grapefruit juice (2 16 oz. bottles of Natalie's Orchid Island 100% Grapefruit Juice)

1 1/2 cups of sugar

2 tbsp. finely chopped mint

a pinch of salt

Pour 1 cup of the juice along with the sugar, mint and salt into small pot. Bring to a boil and boil for just one minute. Allow the syrup to cool completely. Pour through a strainer to remove the mint leaves. In a large bowl combine the remaining juice and syrup. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

Following the instructions of your ice cream maker, freeze the sorbet. I have a Cuisinart Freezer and it took about 20-25 mins to freeze this sorbet completely. Transfer the sorbet to an air tight container and freeze in the freezer for a couple more hours before serving.

This recipes makes 4-6 generous servings. Garnish with a couple fresh mint leaves.

I found this little metal cup caddy at the antique mall for just $10. I gave it a quick coat of rose gold spray paint, and now it's perfect for serving my sorbet in little vintage milk glass glasses.

This post is sponsored by Natalies's Orchid Island Juice Company. Thank you for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

Last Minute Heart Shaped Gifts

2016-02-10T07:56:00.004-08:00

'Tis the season for all things hearts. So if you are looking for something to get you in the spirit or just a fun gift for all the 'gal'entines in your life, look no further. I've rounded up the best heart covered gifts out there. Whether you really want to splurge or just spend a couple bucks, I've got you covered.

I need to tell my husband that I'd never be angry with a gift from Fossil, just in case he's looking to buy me something (wink, wink). Just look how cute that little grey coin purse is? And since Olivia has outgrown all of her Sven Clogs, I think I better consider these cute gold and silver slip on ones. The heart and scollop detail is adorable.

1. Happy Heart Plate

2. Love Headband

3. Coin Purse

4. Dress

5. Phone Case

6. Earrings

7. Brush

8. Clogs

9. Tights

Happy Valentine's Day shopping friends!

Savory Scones Two Ways for Valentine's Day

2016-02-09T07:31:00.001-08:00

I'm a huge fan of a buttery scones, sweet or savory, I love them all. This year, instead of chocolatey sweets, I'm opting for these little heart shaped scones to win the heart of my love. I've come up with two fun flavor combinations - Blue Cheese Fig and Pesto Parmesan.

You can find both recipes and lots of how-to pictures over on CB2's blog Idea Central today. Skip dinner plans out and just serve appetizers and drinks for a fun night in.

Throw a Last Minute Super Bowl Party

2016-02-05T16:05:00.002-08:00

Ok, I've been busy thinking all about Valentine's Day and almost over looked the Super Bowl THIS weekend! Oh, my husband wouldn't have missed it, but I do love a good excuse for a party. And the Super Bowl is all about the snacks, all the ones you avoid all year long. So, even if you haven't planned a party yet, there's still time to. I'm going to share with you my last minute party plan. This is going to be easy and stress-free.

Here's my tips and tricks for throwing a last minute Super Bowl Bash:

1. Crunchy Munchies. Chips, pretzels, crackers, popcorn - they all need to be there. And the best part of serving these is there is no cooking required.

2. Messy Meats. I'm talking wings, and little hot dogs, corndogs, meat balls, all those saucey, messy meats are game day favorites. You don't have to make a whole bunch of food from scratch, check out the freezer section at your grocery store. Most of these can be simply warmed up in the oven or a crockpot.

3. Dips and Dunks. Make sure you have all the classics like salsas and dips. Everyone loves to dip and dunk their food.

4. Bottled Drinks. Who wants to worry about cups and ice. Stick to bottled drinks and then you can just have them all in the fridge, chilled and ready to go.

5. Real Plates and Real Napkins. Forget the paper plate situation. Yes, you'll have to run the dishwasher at the end of the evening. But, when folks are eating off their laps and coffee tables, real plates ensure less spills and messes on you carpet and furniture. And I'm a believer in the cloth napkin. It's way more absorbent then flimsy paper napkins.

6. Half Time Entertainment. As a mom, I know there comes a point when you want all the kids out of the house. Send everyone outside to throw a football or run laps around the house. A little fresh air will do everyone some good.

7. Crafts and Coloring. Not everyone is going to be glued to the game, especially little guys. designate an area for coloring or a simple craft to keep little hands busy and occupied.

8. Easy Clean Up. Leave the clean up to PERSIL PROCLEAN 2in1 Power Liquid. Those cloth napkins and grass stained knees from running around outside can be cleaned up with this amazing laundry detergent. It really works you guys, it gets out all the stains, the first time! Consumer Reports rates it the top new detergent.

You've got this friends!!! Be confident and throw a great Super Bowl Bash!

This post is sponsored by PERCIL PROCLEAN, thank you for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

5 Modern DIY Bookends

2016-02-05T08:16:00.001-08:00

If you are looking for a little project for the weekend, I've found some good ones for you. These DIY modern bookends are sure to look great in any space. Minimal and clean lined, you can display your favorite books upright and in style.

I'm excited for the weekend! My brother and his family are coming to town for the weekend. It's going to be a FULL house. Lots of kids and the best kind of chaos possible.

Wooden Triangles

Gold Triangles

Succulent and Pencil Holders

Fabric Triangles

Cement Letters

Throw an Easy and Elegant Valentine's Day Party

2016-02-04T14:31:00.000-08:00

I love prepping for a party and then getting to see how it all come together in the end. Hosting an elegant Valentine's Day Party can be really easy. I'm sharing with you my dinner party must haves.

1. Flowers instantly make a table feel special. Guests will notice this extra effort. They don't have to cost a lot either. I used inexpensive spray roses, that can be purchased at your grocery store or local florist for about $10. Small, low arrangements across the table give you a lot of bang for your buck.

2. Set the table. I tired of buffet lines and piles of paper plates. Let's set the table with real dishes, real cutlery and gasp...... real cloth napkins. As a foundation, I laid a long custom table runner down the center of the table. I made this one-of-a-kind runner at Shutterfly to go with the plates and coasters I made. (If you'd like to make a runner for yourself, you can download my design HERE.)

3. Start with everyone's favorite - bread and butter. When guests can munch on bread, butter and a little cheese, you can feel ok about finishing up the finally touches on the rest of the meal. When folks are eating and drinking, they are usually happy. And don't worry, there's even some good gluten free options out there.

4. Plan a simple homemade menu. Don't over think the meal, just make a few good dishes that everyone will enjoy. A heavy, carb loaded meal, will leave guests feeling weighed down. I'm serving this light menu below that features a pretty salad and grilled salmon. Guests will also appreciate that you cooked them a meal from start to finish.

Pomegranate Basil Lemonade

French Baguette, Butter, and Goat Cheese

Winter Pomegranate Salad

Grilled Salmon

Red Velvet Sundaes

5. Have a favor for your guests. You've gone to all this effort to make your guests feel special, give them a little memento to help them remember this event. You could give each guest one of the small flower arrangements from the table or I made little packages of bath salts for everyone to take home.

DIY Rose Petal Lavender Bath Salts

2 cups of Epsom salts

a few drops of lavender oil

1/2 cup of dried rose petals

I took a small bunch of spray roses, and once they had wilted, I pulled off all the petals and allowed them to air dry for a day or two. But, be sure to enjoy the roses for a couple days first.

In a food processor, place the salt, lavender oil and rose petals. Pulse on and off until the petals finely chopped and the oil is incorporated.

Pour 1/2 cup in clear bags and tie with simple twine.

Now you are set to host your on dinner party or luncheon. If you are a host or hostess with the mostest, what are your tips and tricks for throwing a party? I'd love to hear from you.

Be sure to check out Shutterfly's Design Studio for inspiration and lots of great DIYs and downloadables. This coffee table and this living wall are pretty cool.

This post is sponsored by Shutterfly. Thank you for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

DIY Date Night Dice

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Don't just take your sweetheart out for Valentine's Day, but plan a whole year of fun dates. These DIY Date Night Dice are sure to make some memorable date combinations. We've been making an effort to spend more intentional time together as a couple, but often coming up with a plan is the hardest part. Roll the dice and let lady luck decide for you. One die selects a fun meal destination and the other chooses an activity for the evening. These dice will be sure to get you out of rut and having some fun date adventures together.

Here's what you'll need:

2" wooden blocks

sponge brush

Mod Podge (in matte finish)

1 copy of each of the dice printables printed on Zazzle Postcards.

scissors

black craft paint or spray paint

Download the dinner and activity files. Print them on Zazzle Postcards.

Cut apart the sides of the dice.

Paint the wooden blacks black. Allow them to dry completely.

Paint on a generous amount of Mod Podge to one side of the die.

Adhere one of the squares to the die. Lay a book or something heavy on top of the block and allow this side of the die to dry for about 5 minutes. Repeat on all sides of the die. When wooden block is completely dry, paint on one last layer of Mod Podge over all the sides of the dice. Allow to dry completely.

This post is sponsored by Zazzle. All my opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the companies that help make this blog possible.

Rose Quartz Paint for the Home

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I love strong blacks + white's and I'm still a fan of a good neutral grey, so I wasn't super excited about this year's Pantone Color of the Year selections. Serenity and Rose Quartz felt washed out and pale. But, I have to say, I might be coming around with the rose quartz at least. I found some great examples of this pretty pale pink used beautifully.

This first image of just two shelves of a bookcase painted pink, is brilliant. It feels modern and fresh and not overly feminine at all. And if you pair pink with emerald green, I'm always happy. I'd also be very tempted to paint my front door pink, if my husband would like me. If I ever finish my laundry room, I think I may need to put in black cabinets and paint the walls pink like the adorable kitchen seen below.

Pink Shelves

Dusty Rose Door

Pale Pink Walls

Gallery on Pink Walls

Black Cabinets with Pink Walls

Pink Chairs

How do you feel about Pantone's 2016 colors of the year? Could you see yourself add splashes of these colors to your home or wardrobe? I recently bought a blush sweater, and I'm in love with it. I wasn't sure if a redhead could wear that color, but it's my new favorite.