Practical Habits for a Greener, More Sustainable Home

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Today many of us are looking for practical ways to save money and reduce waste. Making thoughtful choices about what we consume is an important part of living more sustainably. I’m not a professional in “green living,” but adopting simple, common-sense habits to be frugal and reduce waste at home is a great place to … Read more

DIY Candy Bar Ideas for Weddings and Parties

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My daughter and I searched for simple, affordable ideas to create a beautiful, memorable wedding on a very tight budget. One of our favorite touches was the candy bar. Placed centrally in the reception area, it doubled as both decoration and a popular destination for guests with a sweet tooth. We sourced candy from local … Read more

Coastal Patchwork Quilts: Create a Cozy Beachside Bed Nook

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I recently shared this cozy bed nook and received so many questions about the bedding. The original linens are mostly out of stock now (the blue striped bedskirt is still available), so I put together a “get the look” mood board featuring similar, currently available pieces. This style has such a warm, charming feel — … Read more

Handcrafted Bamboo Tabletop Easel for Displaying Artwork

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Have you ever wanted a small accessory for your home—a finishing touch you’ve pictured for years—but either couldn’t find it or couldn’t justify the price? That was me with a bamboo tabletop easel. I must have seen one in a design book or a friend’s home and loved the idea, but tracking one down at … Read more

Rattan and Bamboo Accent Furniture: Classic Designs & Trending Picks

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Rattan and bamboo furniture have long been beloved for their warmth, texture, and timeless appeal. In recent years these natural woven materials have enjoyed renewed popularity, but whether they’re trending or classic, they make a strong, versatile addition to nearly any interior. Rattan is a pliable vine that can be woven into delicate shapes, while … Read more

Summer Entertaining Ideas for Real People: Stylish & Simple Tips

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I am having another wonderfully busy week getting my girls settled in Washington, so I asked my good friend Sandy from Reluctant Entertainer to share some lovely life inspiration with us today — and naturally for her, that means entertaining. If you think entertaining beautifully is only for people like Martha Stewart, please stay awhile. … Read more

Create a Consistent Personal Style: Tips for a Cohesive Wardrobe

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House and Home May 2015 / Photographer: Stacey Brandford Hi friends! It’s been a while. I didn’t mean to disappear from the blog last week — a few large projects, tight deadlines and some unexpected life events demanded my attention. Between family and work, I needed to pause for a moment to focus on what … Read more

Decorate Your Home with Items You Truly Love

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Remember the excitement of moving into a new home and imagining how you’ll make it your own? Even after living in the same house for years, I still enjoy the gradual process of turning a space into a true home. Adding personal touches, layering in pieces you love, and arranging collections over time creates warmth … Read more

Home Organization Essentials: Declutter and Maximize Space

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Want to get your home and life organized? If you’re ready to make meaningful progress on organizing your home and simplifying daily life, start with two essential habits that can change how you manage clutter and housekeeping. These straightforward, practical steps are easy to adopt and maintain, and they form the foundation for a calmer, … Read more