Wanted

Wanted: A Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 23:47:00 +0000

New Year's Eve is always a big deal for me (it happens to also be my birthday). It's a day full of high hopes and expectations. This year, I am hopeful. I am full of hope for 2012 and the adventures, triumphs, beautiful days and happy memories it will bring. And I hope that this New Year's Eve you find yourself full of hope, too.

Happy New Year!

images: Pinterest

Wanted: A Merry Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 21:24:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but it has taken me a long while to get into the Holiday spirit this year. Maybe it's the unnaturally warm weather, or the hectic work schedule, but I just didn't get as into the decorating and the baking and the wrapping as I usually do. Until now. I'm happily at home, baking and cleaning and wrapping and eating every cookie in sight.

I hope that your Christmas is filled with merriment and delight!

image: via Pinterest

Wanted: Whale Art in Baltimore

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 22:20:00 +0000

I'm in Baltimore for the week, and had to share some cool whale art I spotted in a storefront yesterday. I love that it's a little traditional and science-y. Plus, I'm a sucker for whales.

What are you up to this weekend?

images: Megean

unWanted: Bathroom Tile Disaster

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 01:41:00 +0000

I was all set to write about the interiors seen in What's Your Number (surprisingly chic, by the way), but I suddenly find myself dealing with a bit of a mess.

Yep, those are the tiles of my one and only bathroom that came crashing down in the shower this morning. Plus, most of the other tiles are loose around the gaping hole. I'll be spending the next few days researching things like moisture barriers, thinset, mastic, grout, and hunting down the spare tiles I'm praying are in the attic. Stay tuned for my DIY fix - it's sure to be entertaining.

Have any restoration ideas for me? I'm listening!

images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 02:27:00 +0000

With fall here, there’s a little extra prep in my step. I don’t know what it is about the brisk weather that makes me want to pull out the plaid, but it just feels so collegiate.

This cape from Coach (spotted on The Daily Spark) is so adorable. It will take you from the office, to the football game, or out to a show.

I love these prints from Emily Allison Design. Perfect for a dorm room, if you ask me.

Lastly, I can’t resist the nautical feel of this Thomas Paul bedding (not in the least due to the sweet whale shams). I’ve always been a big lover of white linens, but the great graphic bedding I’ve been seeing lately may win me over.

What are you up to this weekend? Something very fall-ish? Whatever it is, have a great one.

images: via The Daily Spark, via Design Work Life, via ohdeedoh

Wanted: Striped Floors

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 01:54:00 +0000

After a tremendous amount of firsthand experience with some vinyl tape, I think I’m fully prepared to tackle a DIY striped floor modeled after this fab Kate Spade floor.

I was pretty intimidated by taping such a precise pattern on the floor, but I’ve discovered that vinyl tape is pretty forgiving. It’s got a bit of stretch, you see. And it comes in tons of colors and widths! You can find it with a quick Google search, or find a good start here.

I’m thinking the kitchen, or a small area in the living room. Or, maybe I have some willing/adventurous friends that will let me have a go at their floor?

What do you think of striped floors? Do you have any experience with vinyl tape?

images: via Decor Hacks

Wanted: Driftwood Accessories

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 01:25:00 +0000

Even though I have a fantastic capiz chandelier, my home could hardly be described as “beachy.” I’m totally landlocked, but lately I’ve been drawn to driftwood. It’s so smooth and pretty.

First it was a super driftwood starburst that I pinned (btw, are you following me on Pinterest?). It seems totally DIY-able.

Then, I spotted a driftwood piece from ZGallerie on Jen’s new floating buffet. Doesn’t it seem like it has a great story behind it? Like it was found on a beautiful day during a family adventure.

And then there’s this unique driftwood sphere I spotted at the flea market. Have you ever seen such a thing?

I think, since I’m unlikely to find some cool driftwood on a family adventure, I might go the DIY route. Maybe frame out a cool mirror or create a dramatic centerpiece. I think it’d be really great paired with some twinkle lights with the approaching holiday season. Now, where to find some driftwood pieces in my landlocked state.

Have you noticed a driftwood trend lately, or is it just a convergence in my own little universe?

images: via Pinterest, MadebyGirl, Megean

Most Wanted: Fun & Games

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 02:05:00 +0000

I love a good game night, and with cooler weather approaching I’m dying to put a pot of chili on the stove and break out the board games. I’m a sucker for any type of game, really. And don’t let anyone tell you that I’m too competitive. I can’t help but be a winner.

I’m loving these monogram playing cards form La Plates, particularly the chevron pattern. They remind me of these polka-dot Paperchase cards I had one time…

With cooler weather comes tailgating season, and these cornhole boards class things up a bit. Silhouettes! And lawn games! Together! The prep factor is almost too much.

This secret message invite with DIY decoder glasses would make the perfect invite for a game night. Start with some intrigue, and end the night with a vintage Nancy Drew board game.

Have a great weekend, and get your game on!

images: via The Daily Spark, angsweet on Etsy, on-hand modern

Wanted: Kate Spade Additions

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 01:15:00 +0000

Who loves Kate Spade? This girl. I made a couple of summer additions to my little Kate Spade family, and we’re all living together in perfect harmony. The latest addition is this great leaded crystal Banyan Stripe Ice Bucket. Trust me, this sucker is heavy. And gorgeous.

I actually picked it up at the flea market for a steal! I’m stoked about finding all sorts of things to fill it with, including ice for my cocktails. They’re just fancier that way.

Do you love Kate Spade? What is your greatest flea market triumph?

images: Megean

Wanted: Fall TV Premieres

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 02:31:00 +0000

Happy TV Week! All the great shows are back, plus some fun new sure-to-be hits. This week heralds the return of faves like Glee, Modern Family, Parks and Recreation, The Office, Vampire Diaries and Fringe. And not a moment too soon. I’m already missing the summer hits (Did you catch Suits this summer? If not, do yourself a favor and check it out).

But that’s not all! New Girl is sure to be a new must-watch. I’ve already seen the pilot, twice. Zooey Deschanel is just a delight! I dare you not to hum your own theme song after just one viewing. Seems like the perfect follow-up to Glee.

In other adorable starlet news, Hart of Dixie (staring The OC’s ~~Summer Roberts~~ Rachel Bilson and Friday Night Lights’ Scott Porter) is right up my alley. It starts next Monday, after the return of my dear Chuck Bass in Gossip Girl. I can hardly wait!

What will you be watching this season? Are you thrilled about the return of your favorite stories?

images: FOX, CW

Most Wanted: Gold Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 02:20:00 +0000

What a beautiful, fall-like Friday! I’ve gotten in the fall spirit with some golden-hued desires. First up, an adorable whale necklace. I’m always on the look-out for whale stuff, and I think this is the sweetest necklace.

I’m still on the hunt for gold flatware. You know when you pass on something and go back to get it and it seems to be gone forever, like an elusive unicorn? Reasonable gold flatware is my unicorn.

Lastly, take a look at this over-the-top glamorous gold glass tile. Isn’t it gorgeous? I’d consider myself at the height of luxury with tile like this (next to some stunning marble).

Have a fantastic weekend! I’m ready to hit up the farmer’s market and some yard sales in the early morning. What are you up to?

images: ModCloth, bippity boppity boo, via Shelter

Missing Missoni

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 01:46:00 +0000

It’s been awhile. 3 months to be exact(ish). I’ve been busy. Sweltering. But more to the point, I wouldn’t be any sort of blogger if I didn’t follow suit and report on the Missoni for Target debacle that was September 13, 2011. I thought I would learn how to handle disappointment after the Liberty of London let-down of last year, but this was massive.

Bloggers the world over have been on the edge of their seats waiting for Missoni’s more reasonably priced line for Target, set to debut today. Well, unless you arrived when the doors opened or got in before the mega-site crash you probably consider today a shopping failure.

Being the working girl that I am, I headed to Target at day’s end. I found 3 blouses, a skirt, some children’s shoes (too tiny for my Paris Hilton feet), 2 glasses, and adorable luggage (definitely the coup of my excursion). That’s it!

Where were the linens, the pillows, or the throw I would’ve maxed out my credit card for? Some other lucky lady probably got the one that was delivered to my store.

How about you? Did you snag any of the elusive Missoni merchandise?

P.S. It’s good to be back.

(photos: Megean)

Wanted: Yard Makeover

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 31 May 2011 20:21:00 +0000

If you’ll think back to 2010, you may remember that I made a few home resolutions for the year. One of which was to get my landscaping under control. I totally tout the “freedom lawn” approach, a.k.a. the “I don’t know what I’m doing so I’ll just let it grow” approach. After a year of somewhat disastrous lawn maintenance I had a few thoughts about what I wanted to do with my yard. Consider this my first step to a complete yard makeover.

My freedom lawn comes complete with packed-tight shrubs, weeds everywhere (some the size of trees!), random bricks, stones, and concrete, and little to no definition. Armed with some new flowers, a few boxwoods, herbs and vegetables, and about a billion pounds of mulch, I went to work on the great planting weekend of 2011.

Before I moved in some small shrubs had been planted along the front of the house. There were far too many of them and they were too close together. Cut to 3 years later – I finally took the plunge and moved every other shrub (13 all together!). Some were moved to the side of the house, and some to the back.

I also added a couple of boxwoods, potted my patio vegetable and her garden, and planted one lone zinnia (a total impulse buy at the nursery). As a final touch I spread mulch around the front and the back to add definition and keep some of the weeds at bay.

You may notice a stack of stones that I dug up in the back yard. I am thinking of using them as a start for a small patio behind my screened-in porch at the back.

What do you think? There’s still so much to be done, but I hope it’s a good start. And, as with everything, I’m sure I’ll change my mind about how I want things to look in the not-too-distant future.

images: Megean

Wanted: Glee Slushies

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Wed, 25 May 2011 00:36:00 +0000

Tonight marks the season finale of Glee, a fab show full of singing and slushies – two of my favorite things! To commemorate, I’ve whipped up some delicious boozy strawberry limeade slushies, inspired by these from Smitten Kitchen. If you’re not a Glee fan, I’m not sure what’s wrong with you, but you’ll still love this summery drink.

Boozy Strawberry Limeade Slushies
Adapted from Smitten Kitchen Raspberry Limeade Slushies

Note: You should not waste these slushies by throwing them in someone’s face. Plus, that’s just mean.

1 cup frozen strawberries
1 cup limeade (you can use fresh lime juice, but I used the pre-made stuff)
2 cups ice
2/3 cup sugar
½-1 cup vodka (add at your own risk)
Club Soda (optional)

Blend the strawberries, limeade, ice, sugar, and vodka in a blender. If your blender is from 1953 and you are missing the lid (like me) you should cover it with a plate and a towel. Blend until the ice isn’t lumpy. You don’t want lumpy ice. Pour in a glass (bonus points if it’s chilled and fancy) and top with Club Soda (this is optional, it tastes just fine without it). Slurp with a straw.

Warning: These will knock your socks off. The booze really sneaks up on you, so adjust accordingly depending on your plans for the next day.

Enjoy!

Do you love Glee? How did you celebrate the trip to Nationals? Do boozy drinks improve your natural vocal talent?

images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 13 May 2011 21:44:00 +0000

Jonathan Adler Whale Pitcher

How have I lived this long without this pitcher? I’ll spare you the details, but suffice it to say I had a pet whale named Patches growing up and I love everything symbolizing these gentle giants. Need more whales? Check out this great roundup spotted on A Cup of Jo.

Matchbook Magazine

I can’t believe I haven’t mentioned Matchbook Magazine yet, because I’m obsessed. Matchbook girls are the coolest, and that’s what I aspire to be (though I can’t always claim to be as graceful and demure as I imagine other Matchbook girls to be). If you’re like me, and want all you can get, follow them here and here, in addition to checking out the fourth issue here.

True Blood Season Four

I just finished the latest Southern Vampire Mystery Novel, aka Sookie Stackhouse novel, aka True Blood book. My favorite couple seem to be in a sticky situation, but I am loyal and totally confident they’ll work it out. Perhaps even more exciting is the newest True Blood promo from HBO. Be still my heart! Eric, Alcide, Bill! Waiting sucks, indeed. My only complaint? Not enough Hoyt.

Have a lovely weekend, friends. Don’t forget to tell the people that you love that you love them. Sometimes that is all you can do.

images: via Jonathan Adler, Matchbook Magazine

Wanted: Happy Endings

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Thu, 12 May 2011 01:42:00 +0000

Have you seen Happy Endings, the fab new show on abc? It’s super! Basic premise: a delightful group of friends live in some pretty great apartments (aside from the occasional rusty shower). Shenanigans ensue.

Shenanigans like Jazz Kwon Do classes (complete with Fosse fists), how to be a Hipster lessons, zombie preparedness tests, and nerf dart wars. Fun, right?

Max and I could definitely be BFFs. We share the same zombie survival philosophy.

Moral of the story? Watch Happy Endings. It’s on Wednesdays at 10:00 p.m. eastern. You won’t be sorry.

images: sidereel

Wanted: Derby Party

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 10 May 2011 02:05:00 +0000

So, when I say Derby Party I mean my parents came over and we had delicious snacks and cheered on losing horses (Animal Kingdom? Who knew?!?) So I’ll get straight to the point: delicious snacks.

First up, the traditional benedictine (yummy cream cheese cucumber spread). Next, dates stuffed with goat cheese and wrapped in bacon. Lastly, derby pie bars. Soooo yummy. And don’t try to wimp out on the bourbon – you need it.

Find the derby pie bar recipe at The Kitchn.

Did you have a fantastic weekend? How did you celebrate Derby & Mother’s Day?

images: Megean

Most Wanted: Friday Fair Food

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 06 May 2011 19:49:00 +0000

I took a break from the office on this beautiful Oaks day to check out the Chow Wagon – packed with vendors of delicious, greasy fair food. Corndog, sweet potato fries, lemonade, check!

This weekend I plan on having the parents over to celebrate Derby & Mother's Day with some tasty snacks (and likely a few rounds of wii bowling), and devouring the rest of Dead Reckoning, the new True Blood book. Have a great Friday & Happy Derby weekend!

images: Megean

Wanted: Bourbon Slush

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Thu, 05 May 2011 22:41:00 +0000

Today is the day you will be introduced to the dear friend that is Bourbon Slush (unless you already know slush, then you can just count this as the celebration of your love). I know, it’s Cinco de Mayo and I should laud the wonders of the margarita, but you’re going to want to make slush this weekend for your Kentucky Derby festivities. Trust me, way better than a mint julep.

Bourbon Slush is the refreshing, sweet, frozen way to drink your bourbon. It’ll knock your socks off (in more ways than one, if you know what I mean). So, without further ado…

Bourbon Slush

2 cups bourbon
6 oz. orange juice concentrate
12 oz. lemonade concentrate
2 cups strong black tea
4 cups water

Combine ingredients and freeze overnight. Scoop slush into glass and top with ginger ale. Enjoy!

I’ll go ahead and recommend my favorite bourbon, Bulleit (it has the prettiest bottles too – you can reuse them!), but any good Kentucky bourbon will do. The original recipe also called for sugar, but it’s very sweet as is. In fact, I usually top with diet ginger ale to cut down on the sugar. If you can’t freeze overnight, do what you can. I’ve even had it over ice before. I prefer to drink it with a straw, but to each his own. Plus, it's great for Stock the Bar parties.

Are you doing anything for Derby? I love the first Saturday in May!

PS – don’t forget to follow @WantedTweets on Twitter!

images: Megean

Wanted: Stock the Bar Party

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Thu, 05 May 2011 02:01:00 +0000

I was recently asked for some ideas on throwing a fab Stock the Bar party (my favorite kind of fete to throw before impending vows – couples go home with glassware, tools and liquor they need to get their home bar ready for action). While working up a great list of décor, snacks, desserts and favors, I consulted some photos from a Stock the Bar party Meg and I threw last summer for her darling sister Leigh and her now husband Matt.

First on the list for any successful party with a boozy theme should be fun straws. Striped paper straws are my fav.

Snacks included individual bites reminiscent of bar food. Chicken bites with buffalo ranch dip, caprese skewers (to lighten things up), and spinach artichoke dip.

Dessert consisted of individual blueberry cobblers made in mason jars (totally cute, easy to make, and a cinch to carry around an indoor/outdoor party) and card-themed sugar cookies.

The favors might just be the best part. We packaged spiced almonds with a recipe for Bourbon Slush (the signature drink of the party), and a toast to Matt and Leigh. What fun!

Are you gearing up for wedding season? What are your favorite party tips?

images: Megean

Most Wanted: Royal Wedding Geek Out

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:05:00 +0000

It’s been pointed out to me that I’ve been absent here on the blog (though I’m becoming increasingly active on Twitter). What better way to re-ignite the blogging than by celebrating the Royal Wedding? I’ll admit, I was skeptical about how much excitement a wedding thousands of miles away could incite, but now I’ve got my tiara in one hand and my Earl Gray in the other and I’m ready to go!

I’ve read and seen some truly great stuff about the wedding over the past few weeks, and here are some highlights.

I freaked out a little bit over a post on tiaras at {this is glamorous}. Can you imagine – your very own tiara? *sigh*

Take a look at these adorable souvenirs at The House That Lars Built, and a William & Kate souvenir roundup. My favorite has to be this one, though (via Made by Girl).

What I may be most excited about is seeing Kate’s dress. This slideshow from BBC highlights historical royal wedding dresses. Do you think Kate’s will be added?

Will you be watching the wedding? I'll be tweeting, tea and biscuits in hand. I wish nothing but happiness for the adorable couple.

images: The House That Lars Built, All Posters

Wanted: Spring Window Shopping

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 23:28:00 +0000

Hello friends. It’s been awhile. I hate to make excuses for my extended leave of absence, but let’s just say that a long, cold, rainy month + busy work schedule = TV binges curled up in bed. It was not in vain, though, because I have some fun TV interiors you may or may not have seen before, and some great ways to jump on the spring bandwagon now that the sun’s back out.

One thing that carried me through the dark months (aside from the indulgence of British television and bourbon) is the appearance of bright, sunny colors back in stores. On my weekly rounds at Target I spotted some great geometric patterns in vibrant colors in their seasonal collections.

These kitchen towels and placemats could serve double duty if you industriously turned them into pillows, or even café curtains. When the seasons change, I love switching out some of the wintry items in my home, like pillows and throws.

I also adore these great navy melamine plates and trays Target has. I actually picked up the ikat tray. I’m so tempted to pick up the whole collection!

Speaking of ikat, I’m also craving these great outdoor pillows. My porch is in need of a makeover for the summer months, or a deep cleaning at least. Perhaps these are the perfect incentive.

How about you? Are you spicing things up now that spring is finally here? How do you get over the last few months of cold, rainy weather?

(images: Megean)

Wanted: Venetian Mirrors

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 02:46:00 +0000

Last Saturday I had to good fortune to hit up some local antique shops with some great friends. We saw some fantastic pieces, but shop after shop my eye was consistently drawn to some gorgeous Venetian mirrors.

I’ve been looking for a round mirror for my guest room, and this would certainly fit the bill. This one was simpler than most that we saw.

This mirror is the epitome of grand. In fact, I’m not sure my plaster walls would be able to hold it up. And, due to some cracks around the edges, it was a steal.

This one is truly the gem of the bunch. The scale is perfect for my tiny house, and it is in pristine condition. The price, however, is still a little grand for my budget. Or, as my friend Drew would say, “Wow Megean, isn’t that mirror a little opulent?” Opulent indeed. I don't mess around.

Are you on a design kick lately? Have you spotted any great deals? Let’s hear about them!

images: Megean

Most Wanted

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 13:07:00 +0000

It’s been a little while since I’ve done a weekly round-up of things I want most, so without further ado…

Etsy seller CollectableSpectacle has the coolest vintage eyewear. I’ll definitely be keeping this in mind for my next pair of specs.

This spooning print by PeteKDesign and spotted on Re-nest is punny and adorable!

Have you heard about 50 and 50 – the state mottos project? Illustrators have been charged to design a print featuring each of the state mottos. One is being released each day, so stay tuned! I’m eager to see Kentucky.

Have a fantastic weekend!

images: CollectableSpectacle, via Re-nest, 50 and 50

Wanted: A DIY Balloon Valentine

noreply@blogger.com (Megean) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 02:32:00 +0000

I just love Valentine's Day. It's a magical, rosy, sweet-filled day of delight. What's not to love? This year, I whipped up some DIY valentines for all of my sweethearts on the cheap.

I wrote a sweet message on some cardstock. And attached a balloon. That's it. Sometimes it's the simple projects I like best.

Did you send Valentine's to your loved ones this year? I'd love to hear about them! Hope you had the sweetest day ever!

images: Megean