This post is sponsored by Crane and Canopy
In the fall and winter — and really in every season — my favorite space is our cozy bedroom. It’s a small room, which makes it feel like a little nest. It’s my cocoon: a comfy spot to retreat from the world and the place I look forward to at the end of every day.
On a chilly night there’s nowhere I’d rather be than tucked up right here. We still dream about a new bed frame (we’ve been borrowing one from my mom for years) and we need a new mattress (we’ve used our guest room mattress for months because we couldn’t agree on one). Despite hand-me-downs, we make our bed as inviting as possible so it feels like a true retreat.
You might remember that earlier this year my husband painted the room a deep plum (Black Frosted Plum by Glidden). We still love it. The walls used to be yellow, which probably brightened the previous owner’s days, but painting made the room feel more ours.
Paint is a miracle worker — it can instantly make a space feel like you. Since our room is small, we embraced its size and made the mood cozy, moody and romantic. You spend a good portion of your life in your bedroom resting and sleeping, so why not make it comfortable and special?
A few months ago I found my husband a vintage dresser to use as a nightstand. I’d searched for months for something that would complement my style while suiting his needs. This dresser is a win for both of us — I’ll share the before-and-after makeover with details soon.
I’ll post an update with more angles once we finish the other side of the room. After we found the nightstand, other projects distracted us, so the only remaining major piece is a dresser on the opposite wall. It’s all coming in time.
Big purchases like a mattress or dresser take time and money, so we’re patient and do what we can in the meantime. There’s still plenty you can do to make a room feel sacred and comforting without spending a fortune.
If you’ve read my books or followed the blog, you know I believe in making the bed every day.
- Make your bed so you can start the day on the right note.
- Make your bed so it looks special enough to belong in your sanctuary.
- Make your bed so you’ll be inspired to keep the rest of the room fresh and tidy.
- Make your bed so you’ll love crawling into it each evening.
- Make your bed so you’ll sleep better at night.
- Make your bed so it makes you happy all day long.
Within the first hour or so after I rise (and after airing out the bed), I at least “messy-make” it. I toss the covers up and arrange the pretty pillows at the head of the bed. It doesn’t have to be perfect — messy bed-making for the win.
My dogs sometimes sneak in after I make the bed and toss the pillows on the floor like it’s their job. They’re like toddlers with fur. Usually I catch them and get them out of the room before linens end up on the floor. If I didn’t make the bed, they’d be curled up on my sheets, so that’s another good reason to keep making it.
Beyond the daily habit, I truly believe that pretty linens and quality sheets make a difference. I sleep better on good sheets, and when the bed looks luxurious it lifts the whole room and makes it feel like a sanctuary. A special room inspires better care and attention.
Shopping for bedding can feel intimidating. I tend to test fabrics, read reviews, and still sometimes end up with sheets I don’t love. So I was cautious when Crane and Canopy offered to send a sheet and duvet set — but I’m glad I said yes.
I’m happy to report I’m completely pleased with our new sheets, shams and duvet cover. They’re soft and feel luxurious. My husband noticed right away and even commented on the scalloped detail, which he liked. That small trim elevates the look and made an impression on both of us.
Crane and Canopy designs high-quality 100% cotton bedding and sells direct so they can offer better prices without cutting quality. Their weaves land in the 300–400 thread count range, which in my experience delivers the softness and durability I expect.
Their duvet covers come in a variety of colors and reversible patterns. They are machine washable and include thoughtful details like corner ties, easy-care zippers and piping. A Crane and Canopy duvet can double as a top layer if you prefer not to use a separate top sheet, and their sheets are sold separately so you can mix and match for a look that suits you.
These products genuinely make a bed feel and look luxurious, so I’m happy to recommend them — I’m a new fan.
How you make your bed can shape your day. This fall, consider cozying up your bedding and making your room a sanctuary you want to return to every night.
Sources and other bed-making resources:
Ellis Grey Duvet Set & Luxury Scalloped Sheets: Crafted from premium cotton and woven in a silky-soft 400 thread count single pick and single ply cotton sateen.
PS. Thank you so much for the kind comments on my Fall House Tour yesterday! If you missed it, you can find it on the blog.
Check out my decorating, homemaking and organizing books on the blog for more ideas.