Entry Improv

A few weekends ago, the hubs and I took a trip to Ohio with my mother-in-law to go to an outdoor antique show, called Antiques in the Woods. Despite the rain, we scored some great deals including this large trunk. I will give credit when credit is due, because the hubs scored this beauty for $25!

As soon as we put her in the car, I knew it would be the perfect coffee table. I had plans of moving our current free form wood coffee table to the window as an entry way bench with some added pillows. Blame it on my terrible math skills my delirious hope (and lack on spacial planning) that it would work, but alas it was too tall for the couches. 

After wiping away my tears, I regrouped and tried the trunk under the window. Although it wasn’t going to work as a bench to put our shoes on and such, I took it for a test run. After getting a new lamp (Marshalls, $35), hanging some quick and easy DIY curtains, and setting out some fall decorations I think she’s a keeper. The hubs actually really likes it too, which is a plus.

I am welcoming the additional light and the extra storage (we’ll use the trunk to house extra blankets, pillows and other seasonal items,) not to mention the new space for keys and mail. I am on the search for better sheers- the ones we currently have came with house and are this ugly beige color that just looks dirty no matter how clean they actually are- but for now, this will work!

Ever buy something knowing it was going to be perfect only to get it home and it's not even close to working? Did you make it work or bite the bullet and take it back to the store?

Style to Fall For

Too cheesy? I agree, let's pretend the title was something super creative and call it a day, shall we?

Moving on...

Decorating your home is a great way to get into the spirit of the season or holiday, but if you’re like me and don’t have a ton of extra funds lying around and aren't a fan of over doing seasonal decor, it can be difficult. Of course going to a big named store and stocking up on their themed items can drain a bank account pretty quickly, not to mention it can start to look excessive if you’re not careful. However, with some creativity and elbow grease; you can incorporate splashes of the season spirit and keep a few bucks in your pocket. 

With Fall only two days away (September 23 is the official start of autumn,) I wanted to share with you a few quick tips and ideas for how I am getting in the mood. 

• Wardrobe updates and revivals are my number one way to get ready for a season. Since I don't love filling my house with seasonal decorations that may or may not be in style next year, clothing is my go to seasonal mood changer! I am gravitating to neutrals with pops greens and oranges this year.

All images from Pinterest (via)

•  Updating my front door wreath. Confession: I have had a red berry wreath on my front door since last Christmas. Ha! So it was definitely time for an update. This large anise wreath was on sale last week at Target and I though it was the perfect backdrop that I can update with ribbon and accessories as much as I please! (I already have a craft in the works that I will share soon.)

It even smells like anise (licorice) and I love it!

I was tempted to create this acorn wreath (via)

• Candles. Whether they are scented (my favorite fall candles are Yankee Candles' Cranberry and Orange and Chesapeake Bay Candles' Harvest Bouquet) or unscented, candle light warms a room and add instant cozi-ness!

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• Pillows. Now, I'm not talking about every pillow in the house, but by swapping out or adding a few pillows in warmer colors and fabrics can give an entire room an update. Bonus- if you can sew, it can be a very inexpensive option. I especially love the cable knit sweater versions seen all over the place.

Sweater and warm toned pillows from Pottery Barn (via)

West Elm Origami Pillows (via)

• Even as the air begins to turn chilly, don't neglect your outdoor space. I like to create a basket for date nights by the fire-with blankets, candles, s'more ingredients, and even some bubbly. It can make even the most simple night special.

Fall date night essentials

• Now don't get me wrong, I am a sucker for more simple seasonal accessories. I like using items you already have on hand, like coffee beans, leaves and twigs from outside, etc. to add some warmth to vases, bowls, and baskets around the house. I am also loving items like these yarn pumpkins, that will last year after year!

Great tutorial by Everything Under The Moon (via)

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No matter how you choose to decorate and get ready for the season, remember the most important thing is that you stay true to your style. Whether getting in the spirit means switching up every item in your house or one fall themed wreath is plenty, make sure your home speaks to who you are all year round!

How are you getting ready for fall? What are your must haves or rules for seasonal decorating?