Wedding Planning Tips from Courtney: Create a Beautiful Wedding on a Budget

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Photos in this post by Milana’s Photography (apart from photos labeled iPhone photo) Hi friends — I’m Courtney (Melissa’s daughter). I’m excited to share wedding planning advice and a look back at our wedding from this past July. I posted a few updates on Instagram while planning, but now that we have all the photographer … Read more

Cottage-Style Bathroom Ideas and Blog Makeover Tips

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We recently gave our small powder room a gentle refresh—just paint and a few new accessories rather than a full renovation. This wasn’t a dramatic “blogger makeover” involving power tools; it was a modest update done on a tight budget. I had once hoped to replace the tile and install a pedestal sink, but that … Read more

5 Cozy Fall Diffuser Blends That Beat Candles

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Happy fall! A few years ago I stopped burning candles regularly and switched to diffusing essential oils to scent my home. These blends smell wonderful—often better than the candles I used to enjoy—and I feel better knowing I’m filling the air with natural oils instead of inhaling smoke and potentially harmful candle additives. I diffuse … Read more

November Home Style Ideas | Weekend Decor Inspiration

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Over the table rod Happy November! I’m glad you stopped by. I hope you had a great week. Fall is passing quickly, and before long it will be Thanksgiving here in the United States. I’m preparing several upcoming posts, including room and yard updates, seasonal decorating ideas, a feature on a beautiful coastal home, and … Read more

4 Ways to Make Your Home Spark Joy

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This post is sponsored by Shutterfly. Awaken your space with your vision. Shop Shutterfly Home Decor for personalized home accents that are uniquely you. HHello! It’s Courtney here. I can’t believe it’s been about three months since I moved into my very first apartment. When I began planning the move, my design-loving heart immediately started … Read more

Freestanding Kitchen Islands & Rolling Carts: Space-Saving Ideas

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Beautiful kitchen and freestanding island from Williams Sonoma Greetings! I hope you had a wonderful weekend. Last week I shared some floor plan ideas and enjoyed imagining the possibilities for our kitchen layout. I’ll return soon with more plans for other parts of the house — including where a second bathroom might fit on the … Read more

Gluten-Free Dutch Baby Pancake Recipe for Light, Fluffy Results

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Want something delicious for brunch this weekend? Dutch Babies, which we affectionately call “puffs” (puff pancakes), have been our family’s special breakfast for years. They’re simple to make and always feel celebratory. After being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s and switching to a gluten-free diet, I worried I couldn’t recreate our favorite puff recipe. I’m happy to … Read more

Fresh Kitchen Design Ideas: Colorful Alternatives to White

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Country Living While all-white kitchens remain popular, many readers have asked to see kitchens with wood cabinets or painted cabinets in colors other than white. I’ve loved white kitchens too, but lately I’ve been drawn to spaces that feel more distinctive—kitchens that blend charming traditional elements with updated, modern touches. Every autumn I find myself … Read more

Summer Lantern Bouquet: Bright Floral Centerpiece Ideas

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Happy July, friends! Thank you for the kind words about our new door color — we still love it and it makes us smile every day. With flowers blooming in the yard this time of year, I’ve been enjoying a simple ritual: filling the lantern by the door with a fresh bouquet. It’s an easy, … Read more

Home-Style Saturdays: Cozy Recipes & Weekend Comfort Ideas

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One thing I’ve noticed since I started these Home Style Saturdays posts is how quickly the weeks slip by. Recently I was out of town and completely forgot to schedule the post — the weekend simply rushed past me. I’ve since published last week’s Home Style Saturday roundup, so you can catch up on that … Read more