Fall Decor Buzz and Buys

Let’s talk fall decor buzz and buys for house and home.

Too early for the fall of it all?

Looking forward to the next season to come naturally sparks our interest. Seasonal decorating ideas for fall take time to cultivate and harvest.

Why put off until tomorrow what you can hunt and gather today!

Emails arriving on a daily basis showcasing fall 2023 catalogs, lookbooks, and new for fall arrivals indicates the official fall decor buzz and buys season is indeed in full swing.

From my experiences decorating both home and shop to reflect the corresponding season, balance remains the principal objective to achieve.

Photo by Nathan Dumlao

Weighing in on the subject of overload, my opinion has and will always be your house, your taste.

Load up the tabletops in decorative pumpkins if decorative pumpkins bring you joy of season.

Southern Living Magazine- Photography by Helen Norman

Trends trend ephemeral.

If the trend du jour speaks to you, listen.

On the other hand, if classic seasonal decor accents convey timeless chic to you then you’ve found the decorating sweet spot.

Now, if a combination of mix and mingle checks the box then welcome fall fabulous home.

Printable Pumpkin Still Life Painting

Articles and posts from seasoned professionals and decoristas should only serve to inform and inspire, never discourage or dissuade.

Prairie Land Framed Canvas Board

Going with the if it ain’t broke don’t fix it rule, this year’s fall decorating around the house look is brought to you by the need and the want to showcase decorative items germane to individuality, simplicity, effortlessness, and nature’s beauty.

Fall Harvest Plate

In high demand items run the risk of sorry out of stock replies dashing your add to cart dreams.

Kabinett & Kammer, Franklin, NY

Where pastel and bright colors rule the spring into summer color palette, the autumnal allure realized through the choices of darker tones and seasoned finishes resembles nature’s contribution to the rich and cozy fall color palette.

Antique Bennington Rockingham Style Pottery, Hunt Scene Large Pottery Pitcher

Autumnal overload by way of accents and accessories is easily avoided when color guides your seasonal decorating plan.

Glazed Pots Framed Art Print

Antique Bennington Rockingham Stoneware Tulip Pitcher

Better Homes & Gardens – Photography by Emily J. Followill

Antique Large Brown Salt Glaze Stoneware Pitcher

Antique Pottery Pitcher

Mariah Spice Area Rug

Antiquity At506 Blue and Red Area Rug

Aelmoor Ael1 8′ x 10′ Area Rug

English Mahogany Scotch Chest c.1890’s-1920’s

Recently, I’ve discovered a wonderful read, The New Antiquarians: At Home with Young Collectors by Michael Diaz-Griffith with photography by Brian W. Ferry.

The New Antiquarians At Home with Young Collectors by Michael Diaz-Griffith

Curiosity of history coupled with a devout fascination with collecting has once again found its footing with the forty and under crowd.

Welcome to my world, my fellow antiquarians.

Set of 5 Vintage Books Customizable by Color

Colors, textures, and patterns intrigue and inspire young collectors to seek and mix pieces from various periods and places in the pursuit of creating fresh curated schemes while expressing personal style.

Klismos Gallery

Striking copper and antique brass finishes integrate depth and warmth.

Vintage Fireplace – Fire Pit Bellow Fire Pit

Antique Redware Red Riding Hood and Wolf Match Holder

Brass Andirons

Antique Brass Wall Mount Match Strike Holder

Vintage Brass Match Holder

Victorian Lady’s Boot Vintage Brass Vase

Vintage Brass Matchstick Holder

Continental European Brass and Metal Repoussé Log Box, Late 19th Early 20th C.

Simple subtractions pave the way for seasonal additions.

Pack away spring into summer favorites in favor of accents visually pleasing to the autumn soul.

Wood Bookend

Old terrine with hare head, Pillivuyt, France

Mimi Thorisson Italian Hours Cocotte

Mimi Thorisson Italian Hours Baking Dish

Wild Rice and Basmati Dressing with Sausage and Sage Recipe

Country Living Magazine – Photography by David Tsay

Antique Alphabet Sampler Framed Wall Art

Cracked Pepper is Behr’s 2024 Color of the Year.

Would you call it a shade of black or a shade of dark gray?

It’s a workable accent- a color easily implemented into the fall/autumn decorating scheme.

Asiatic Pheasant Dinner Plates

Art Pub Wall Sign “The Fox Tavern & Inn” Repro of Original

Pewter Pumpkin Serving Tray, Large

Silver Pinecone Table Decor, 6″

Pewter Pumpkin Salt & Pepper Shaker Set

‘Tis the golden hour.

Fall color forecasts include golden tones of honey that complement neutral shades and nature’s God-given palette.

Charlotta Gold Set of 4 Holiday Harvest Appetizer Plates

Hand Tufted Hand Made 100% Wool Transitional Oriental Area Rug Slate

Vintage French Colonial Toile Wallpaper, Metallic Gold

Shine a little light on a cozy fall day into evening with this squirrel desk lamp in honey gold tones.

Squirrel Desk Lamp

Linden Street Leaf Embroidery Square Throw Pillow

Last year I scouted and scooped up the pheasant vase in the above image early in the fall finds buying season. Learned it’s better to buy early than cry late.

Vintage Lefton Bird Pheasant

Vintage George Good Small Hand Painted Porcelain Pheasant Figurine

Isn’t this just the picture of cozy at home?

Victoria Magazine

Transports thought and heart to the very best of fall; country inns and cottages furnished in traditional Colonial style, period antiques in rich deep patinas, and nooks and crannies replete with charming accents of the past.

Bow Front Storage Chest

Stylish storage solutions is always in season.

I keep coming back to this Barrister Lane 3-Drawer Sindoori Mango Chest of Drawers for a few reasons. The under $300 price point sits well, the finish offers a rustic charm, and the overall size makes this piece a versatile choice for most spaces.

Barrister Lane 3-Drawer Sindoori Mango Chest of Drawers

Hardware enhancement elevates the detail and increases visual interest.

Carved Wood Fruit and Nut Large Pull Reproductions

So I’m thinking two of these living room accent chairs serving as captains dining chairs a grand choice of fall furnishing.

Best Master Furniture 615 Vogue King Living Room Accent Arm Chair

English in provenance, the Windsor chair is associated with American Colonial style.

Carolina Chair & Table Co. Reed Windsor Dining Chair – Espresso

Colonial craftsmen did away with the central splat detail known to the original design. Splats and legs were altered to enforce the sturdiness and form.

Vera Chair in English Pine

Elegant country is the term I assign to the Vera Chair in English Pine.

Kalloo Ladder Back Side Chair

Fall flowers in vases in full fall color bloom.

Hobby Lobby

Seasonal fruits and vegetables sitting pretty in rich honey caramel shades and shapes.

Large Chipwood Basket by Ashland

Natural elements housed in natural materials baskets.

Mainstays Round Maize Decorative Storage Basket, Dark Brown

Color packed planters of chrysanthemums, marigolds, pansies or crotons.

Large Terracotta Red Concrete Planter Pot

Lovely fall decor buzz and buys accents and accessories kick off the build up to seasonal interest and must have demand.

Show & Tell

Scenes from Home: Signature Style Home Decor Pieces

It appears my blog posts this month have a scenes from home refreshed theme going, and I can’t think of a more Louisiana centric topic of conversation than interior design and signature style home decor pieces associated with the interiors of homes in the New Orleans Garden District.

After all, home is where the heart is.

Rivers Spencer Interiors

Distinctive details and visual contrast along with signature style home decor pieces uniquely characterize the charm of New Orleans.

Pair of Antique Louis XVI Style Chairs Upholstered in Irish Natural Linen

Creative leeway, contrast, varied price points, and brilliant juxtaposition work in unison with signature style home decor pieces to represent the decorating styles expressly associated with period homes and signature NOLA style.

LOUIS XVI Style French Trumeau Mirror

Antique French Louis XV Bombe Marble Top Commode

Uttermost Maris Plated Antiqued Brass 2-light Table Lamp

Antique French Louis XV Bombe Marble Top Commode

Vintage French Louis XV Style Marble Top Paint Decorated Commode

When I take a visual inventory of the curated style in my own home and the home decor pieces featured in this post, I’m reminded of the spaghetti sauce ad from campaigns past that proclaims, “it’s in there!”

Over the years, pieces that detail and define our rich and eclectic Louisiana history, inspired charm, varied provenance, and distinctive architectural elements have found a home within our home.

Big, Easy Style by Bryan Batt on Pinterest

We like to use the term spot accessory.

Spot table.

Tray Top Cross Legs End Table

Contemporary spot pieces such as a small gold accent table(s) elegantly lends a modern twist to a predominately classic interior.

“There are two things that make a room timeless: a sense
of history and a piece of the future.”

— Charlotte Moss

Spot on in size and style, the accent table is perhaps the most genius of home decor pieces.

Infinity 54″ Gold Console Table With White Marble

Rosia 36″ Genuine Marble Console Table

Unique pairings work the room introducing current styles of trend to the timeless classics.

Architectural Digest – Photography by Nicole Franzen

6-Light Cluster Glass Globe Bubble Chandelier – 25in – Black

Architectural Digest – Photography by Nicole Franzen

The Cottage Journal

Bookmatched Mahogany Victorian Traditional Empire Style 46″ Sideboard

Alexander Home Sara Antique Ultra Plush Area Rug

Triumph Channel Tufted Performance Velvet Sectional Sofa Corner Chair

Dorado Bergere Chair

Adela Accent Chair

Taupe Aledo Linen Arm Chair

Veranda – Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights

Clarksburg 4 – Light Lantern Geometric Chandelier

Large Giltwood Lantern with 4 Lights, Hand-Carved Reproduction

Acclaim Lighting Kingston 4-Light Pendant

From House Proud: Unique Home Design/Louisiana by Valorie Hart with Photos by Sara Essex Bradley

Italian Florentine Vintage Gilt Painted Chest of Drawers

Louis XV French Style Bench in Gold Leaf

Italian Florentine Coaster Set

Absolutely fabulous detail, and therein lies the beauty.

Livex Lighting La Bella Hand Painted Vintage Gold Leaf 12 Light Chandelier

Butler 12-Light Clear Crystal English Bronze Chandelier

Karlton 6 – Light Candle Style Empire Chandelier with Crystal Accents

Southern Home Magazine – Photography by Sara Essex Bradley

Mercer 10-Light Olde Silver Crystal Chandelier

Corbett-Standard Aveline 20 Light Chandelier

Mixing and mingling modern with vintage inspired pieces appeals to visual interest- the lead component necessary when building the character of the space.

SAFAVIEH Couture Ella Clear/ Black Acrylic Dining Chair

6 Light Chandelier by Minka Metropolitan

Architectural Digest – Photography by Nicole Franzen

Antique Gold Crystal Beaded Firefly Pendant Ceiling Lighting Chandelier

Ceiling Medallions

Signature style home decor pieces include, but are not limited to:

Antiques

Lanterns

Ceiling medallions

Dupioni silk drapes

Decorative objects d’art

Chandeliers dripping in crystal prisms

Decorative mirrors and frames scrolled in gold leaf

Antique French Curtain Tie Backs

Storm Grey Ruched Vintage Textured Faux Dupioni Silk Curtain

Decorative Drapery Hardware

French Double Caned & Carved White Twin Bed with Rose Swags

Antique French Louis XV Style Painted Bed

“New Orleans makes it possible to go to Europe
without ever leaving the United States.”

—Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Court Vintage French Upholstered Fabric Dining Side Chair

Picket House Furnishings Regal Accent Armchair

Cream Colored Key Tassel w Looped Ruche

19th Century French Wooden Chest of Drawers

Inspiration is everywhere, and the New Orleans influence comes home through signature style home decor pieces.

Content in this post may contain affiliate links. When you click and shop the links, I receive a commission from affiliates.

Show & Tell

Louisiana Gulf Coastal Style

Louisiana Gulf Coastal style is a superlative design style for all seasons, but it seems to shine brightest in the summer style spotlight.

Decor style displayed throughout your home is a 365 day a year love your style affair, but at certain times of the calendar year the appeal of a particular decor style is heightened.

The Brown Pelican – The Official State Bird of Louisiana

American White Pelican Artwork by John James Audubon

Scenes from home illustrate Louisiana is a mixed bag of decor styles, dishes, and dialects.

Our rich and diverse history replete with Spanish and French influences reflects in regional design and architectural features such as flat-tiled roofs, stucco façades, and coastal into tropical color palettes.

Louisiana Cookin’

Food is more form than function with fresh Gulf seafood being a house specialty for all seasons.

Baked Oysters with Gremolata

Matte White Round Stoneware Oyster Platter

Vintage Found Hotel Silver Appetizer Forks – Set of 4

J.P. Limoges France Rimmed Soup-Salad-Pasta Bowls

Louisiana Gulf coastal style is rooted in Victorian, Acadian, Creole, French, Spanish and European influences.

Gold Scalloped Rim Glass Plate

Antique German Fish Plates Set Of 8, Dinner Fish Plates

Chinoiserie Style Oyster Pineapple Wall /Door Hanging

Custom Oyster Shell NOAA Chart

Silver Aluminum Coastal Serving Bowl

Shrimp Salad Recipe

Design and decor treasure troves include John James Audubon prints, oyster and turtle shells, and eclectic objets d’art of beach and bayou.

Gold Metal Turtle Shell Box, 5″

Sharing a common foundation with its traditional coastal design style counterpart, Louisiana Gulf coastal style blurs the lines with a seasoned twist of laissez le bon temps interpretation.

Embellishing pieces in order to create a custom look is a Gulf Coast breeze.

Instant and affordable, simply replace existing cabinet hardware with decorative cabinet knobs rich with Gulf Coast style overtones.

Greg Natale

You’ll be amazed at how fast a piece goes from to plain to pizzazz with the addition of new cabinet hardware.

Coastal color schemes take a cue from the natural surroundings of sky, shore, shell, and sea.

Incorporate casually elegant pieces into the spaces and places of the home to best convey the quintessence of Louisiana Gulf coastal style.

Southern Home Magazine

Regina Andrew Design Driftwood Sconce

Table lamps and wall sconces, better known as the jewelry of the space, both complement and complete the desired look.

Shelly Wall Sconce

Coastal style does not have to fit the traditional sea and shell mold.

Capital Lighting Eden Tall Wall Sconce – Gold

Minka Lavery – Abbott Place – 2 Light Wall Sconce in Traditional Style

from Sherwin-Williams

We take just enough liberty with the traditional hallmarks of coastal design style to make it our own, enhancing the look with a dash of native to Louisiana flavor without walking too terribly far way from the core notes.

Sourcing in the style of furnishings and home decor accents isn’t always an absolute exercise in imitation.

Jarod A. Hebert Architect, LLC

Stepping back for a moment or two to absorb and access the living room in the above image, and as lovely as it is, I’m going to add to and take away from for the sake of personal preference.

Capital Lighting Jude 6 Light Chandelier – Mystic Luster

19th Century Italian Carved Giltwood and Polychrome Five-Light Chandelier

Cyan Design Driftwood Table Lamp

Uttermost Twisted Vines Table Lamp

Vintage Art Print Gold Framed, Beach

BenJara Medium Clam Shell Accent, White

Vintage Silvered Oyster Shell Lamp Finials – Set of 2

Silver Glass Task and Reading Table Lamp with Faux Mercury Glass Finish

White Polystone Coastal Shell Sculpture

Taking the Louisiana coastal environment into consideration results in upholstery choices of the cool, versatile, and easy care kind.

Leobarda Oatmeal Armchair with Nailhead Trim (Set of 2)

Beato Blue Armchair with Turned Legs

Pearl 17.5 in. Glass Crystal LED Table Lamp, White Brass Gold

Icott 29 in. Silver Mercury Glass Table Lamp with Off-White Shade

Italian Baroque Pedestal Table

Beige Polystone Turtle Sculpture (Set of 3)

Folklore tells the tale of beauty and aquatic goddess known as mermaids.

Fascinating as mythical sirens, this turtle sculpture set of 3 mermaids makes a graceful addition to the theme.

Safavieh Handmade Ikat Madyson Wool Rug

Blossom IvoryGray 8 ft. x 10 ft. Floral Area Rug

Small Round Gold Classic Mirror

Provence Sunburst Iron Framed Mirror

Table Lamp with Blue and White Heavy Textured Glaze

Haversham 56 in. Aged Blue Credenza with 4 Doors

Searching warehouse and storeroom for my Great blue Heron John James Audubon print got this Louisiana Gulf coastal style party started.

Hanging the Great blue Heron print in the dining room is under decorative consideration, and the best way to rule it in or rule it out is to actually hang it before the second and final coat of paint.

If I decide against the piece, I simply caulk the nail hole and we’re on to bigger and better items.

Audubon Oppenheimer Octavo Edition, Pl. 369 Great blue Heron

Roseate Spoonbill on the Louisiana Coast

Medium Rectangle Ivory Casual Mirror

Hexagonal Embellishments Sideboard with Solid Wood Legs

Delia 20.5 in. Cream Faux Alligator Table Lamp with Off-White Shade

Metallic Gold Alligator Sculpture Table Decor

HomArt – Match Box Set of 2 – Shells

Homestyles 20 in. Bronze Patina Pelican on Coastal Rock Nautical Beach Statue

Innova Heron Duo Garden Statue

Traditional additions grouped along with those awash in modern subtleties strike an expected meets the unexpected balance.

Resin Coral Shell Bowl

Gold-Tone Clam Bowl, Large

Nature provides the natural color palette so beautifully found along the sands and water’s edge of the Gulf Coast.

Summer is the season of coastal decor style, and the popularity of Louisiana Gulf coastal style is experiencing its day in the sun.

Show & Tell

Dorm Digs Decor Ideas and Tips

Dorm digs decor ideas and tips are on the project list for the pretty on a penny back to campus crowd.

Dorm decor is a study in ever evolving styles and tastes. Back to campus condos, townhouses, apartments, sorority and fraternity house rooms and the furniture pieces that fill them class is in session.

Typical standard dorm room space comes in around 12′ X 20′ with the most common bed twin XL measuring 80″ long X 38″ wide.

Popular area rug sizes:

4′ X 6′

5′ X 8′

6′ X 9′

Soft Fluffy Area Rug

For under $45.00 you can add this 5′ X 8′ soft fluffy area rug in seventeen color choices to your dorm decor ideas must have list.

SAFAVIEH Floral Watercolor Wool Rug – 3′ x 5′ – Beige/Gold

As one who is all about the mix and mingle, my primary dorm digs decor ideas and tips is to layer colors, textures, and patterns which will add depth and contrast to the space.

Lady Skirts Framed Wall Art

CO-Z Retro Table Lamp with Pleated Empire Lamp Shade

Stanley 40 oz. Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

ABS Multifunction Storage Table Stackable Detachable Organizer

Forever 21 Floral Quilt Set

Pink is having a hot moment, and for the decoristas who think pink, it comes as no surprise. Popular opinion associates the color pink with love, romance, passion, and comfort.

I’ve loved the color pink ever since my mother placed a Sherwin-Williams paint fan deck in front of me in order for me to select the color of my bedroom walls during the great ranch remodel of 1967.

I’ll never be accused of being a Johnny-come-lately to the color pink palette scene, and am enjoying this current in the pink moment.

Renaissance Chalk Finish Paint

If the color pink is in your dorm digs decor ideas and in your shopping rounds you come across a piece that hits all the right notes except the color is not a perfect think pink, think paint.

Image by Freepik

Pick out a shade, pick up a pint and a paintbrush, and customize to your liking.

Dorm Room Decor

Printed Microfiber 3-Pc. Sheet Set

Forever 21 Cooling Microfiber Patterned Sheet Set

Among the aisles and the sites of department, big box, chain and discount stores your back to campus treasure hunt finds awaits.

Reversible Microfiber Solid Comforter

Dorm Room for Him

Selections featured throughout this post hopefully will spark inspiration and give you some ideas.

Dorm Room Decor

Night Owl Canvas Wall Art

Gone are the dorm days of anything will do furnishings.

Chic Swivel Barrel Chair

Thank goodness the old school school of thought has taken a page from the book of personal style.

Corner Table Wood Triangle Bookshelf with Protection Door in Gold

Let’s scroll and source, shall we?

Gold Tripod Table Lamp with White Feather

Gold Tripod Table Lamp with Pink Feather

Small spot accent tables fill in the blanks without filling up the space.

Jaclyn 15.4 in. White and Gold Round Marble Top End Table

Zimtown Modern Side End Accent C Table

Mr. Kate Stella Accent Table – White

Black Rattan End or Side Table with Storage Doors and Gold Accents

Stallion on Canvas Board- Threshold™ designed with Studio McGee

Woven Fronts Nightstand

Olive Metal Locker End Table with Door and 2-Shelves

Gymax End Table with Charging Station Industrial Nightstand Flip Top

Frame Plane Autocad Wall Art

Rustic Metal & Wood Side Table with Rolling Casters

The King Wrapped Canvas Wall Art by Alex Zhao

Rocky Movie Poster

Fridge Stand Supreme – Black Pipe Frame with Black Drawers

5-Drawer Brown Oak Wood Lateral File Cabinet

Butterfly Chair Brown Real Leather

Satin Nickel Indoor Bankers Lamp with LED Bulb

Madrid 3-Drawer Black Matte Chest of-Drawers

White Resin Playful Monkey Table Lamp

Touraco Dresser White Brown – Threshold

This gold finish 3-piece round sunburst mirror set gives a big look for a small price return.

3-Piece Round Sunburst Mirror Set in Gold Finish

Pink Flower Crown Wall Mirror

Sonoma Goods For Life® Shell Planter

White and Gold 2 Drawers Computer Desk Writing Table

Tufted Office Chair With Faux Wood Base

Mainstays Plush Velvet Office Chair

Wicker Waste Basket in Pink Hyacinth

Mainstays 5 Gallon Trash Can, Plastic Office Trash Can, Pink Take Meowt

Big Joe Joey Bean Bag Chair, Plush

Wireless Mouse with 5 Buttons and Scroll Wheel

“Find out who you are, and do it on purpose.”

—Dolly Parton

Light Pink Mini Pastel Accent Bedside Table – Desk Lamp

63ct Office Accessories Kit with Sticky Notepad – Blush & Gold

Twizzler Cable

Dorm Decor Roommate Print

Original Gold Ombre Tapestry

First aid fix with several other good to know uses, isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is a handy dandy item to include in your dorm digs essentials kit.

Isopropyl alcohol cleans ink, oil, grease, and glue from surfaces.

Linon Peggy 2-Drawer Writing Desk

Give the inside of your shoes a good misting with isopropyl alcohol to fight off odors and disinfect them.

Clean a dry erase board by spraying isopropyl alcohol onto the board and quickly wiping off with a paper towel.

Round Dry Erase Board with Gold Frame and Marble Print

Keyboards-phones-tablets have the ability of getting mighty funky over time and use. Always make sure to turn off computer and device before cleaning.

Spray the tip of a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol and simply swap and dab the keys to clean. Allow to dry completely before powering up computer.

To clean and disinfect your phone and/or tablet spray a small amount of isopropyl alcohol onto a microfiber cloth. Gently wipe the glass/screen of your phone and/or tablet with cloth.

Spritz bed pillows with isopropyl alcohol to disinfect and freshen.

Urban Shop Novelty Glass Mushroom Lamp, Orange Tortoise

Flower Floor Pillow Seating Cushion

Light Woodgrain 4-Drawer Writing Desk with Built in Storage

What’s a pretty on a penny dorm room decorista to do if a desk hits the form and function high notes but leaves a little something to be desired?

Handle Pull Dresser Pulls

Decorative hardware goes a long way in the fight against bland, and a can of gold spray paint or brass caster cups will color your world and furniture legs.

Personal Style Project Supply List:

screwdriver
decorative cabinet/drawer hardware

Using a screwdriver, remove existing hardware from door or drawer. Line up new hardware and once again using screwdriver secure new hardware into place.

Bow Damask Black Vinyl Matte Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Bahama Pink Bamboozled Peel & Stick Wallpaper

Enhancements such as lining drawers with peel and stick wallpaper in your choice of dorm dandy color, texture, and pattern selection takes the ordinary to extraordinary in no time flat.

Packed Party “Think Pink” Plaid Peel-N-Stick Wallpaper

Packed Party “Pink You Can” Peel-N-Stick Wallpaper

Wood Wallpaper Wood Grain Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Black Wood Grain Contact Paper

Techni Mobili Classic Computer Desk with Multiple Drawers, Grey

Regency Hill Malta Rustic Farmhouse Desk Lamp

Better Homes & Gardens 6-Cube Storage Organizer, Tobacco Oak

Retro Creative Radio Shape Flower Pot

LED Desk Lamp, Rechargeable Battery Powered USB Charging Port

Distant Lands Handpainted Tiger Accent Vase

Acacia Wood Industrial Style Desk

Perry Bentwood Office Chair Black Natural

Take your desk chair transformation a DIY step further with a can of go for the gold spray paint.

Better Homes & Gardens Large Natural Water Hyacinth Boat Basket

Heavy Duty Laundry Bag with Drawstring

Mamamax Ironing Board Cover and Pad

TOLKNING Laundry basket on wheels, handmade Willow

Ice Cream Cone Hamper

Laundry Essentials Checklist:

Hangers
Clothespins
Steamer
Wrinkle Release
Laundry Basket
Laundry Bag(s)
Mesh Bags
Laundry Detergent
Bleach
Stain Remover/Stain Remover Pen
Scent Booster
Dryer Sheets
Dryer Balls
Deodorizers

Home Expressions 6pc Washcloth Set

Better Homes & Gardens – Photography by Marty Baldwin

6 Cube Storage Organizer Cube Bookshelf Pink

Pink Owl Rattan Storage Basket with Lid

Command the no damage to the walls situation with 3M Command strips and hooks.

Command Brand Double Hooks

Pen+Gear Plastic Storage Box Set with Lids

Better Homes & Gardens 4-Cube Storage Organizer

Mainstays Collapsible Fabric Cube Storage Bins

Black 2pk Fabric Cube Storage Bin

Round Wire Basket With Handles

Compartment Faux Leather Valet Catchall Tray Organizer

20-Count Indoor Outdoor Incandescent String Lights

Spaceman Night Light, 7.5″

Rhode Island Novelty New Large Blinking 3-Sided Traffic Light Signal Lamp

Bluetooth Wireless Turntable with Built-in Speakers and USB

MVMT Hexagon Wireless Speaker

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Blue, Go 3

Rugsmith Transitional Novelty Novelty Black Coir Indoor, Outdoor Doormat

‘Root For Your Self’ Coir Doormat Black – Room Essentials™

Modern Innovations Bedside Shelf for Bed

Crockpot™ 20-oz. Lunch Crock Food Warmer

Tasty 3QT Family Size Microwave Popcorn Popper

Haden Heritage Electric Kettle

”Game Tile” Alphabet Wall Art

Honeywell Turbo Force Power Air Circulator Fan

The Big One® Corduroy Floor Cushion

Boucle Mushroom Upholstered Storage Ottoman, Terracotta

Men’s Cruiser Bike

Getting there is half the fun.

Nel Lusso Classic Cruiser Bike with Perfect Fit Frame

ShedRain UnbelievaBrella Reverse Umbrella with Patterned Lining

Here’s hoping these dorm digs decor ideas and tips offer decorating inspiration.

Show & Tell

Coastal Designs of Summer

Coastal designs of summer and the decor accents, palette selections, and classic in the style of accessories that exemplify coastal chic inspire this show and tell.

Sightings of retail sources rush to fall and Halloween in mid-July is just a bit too early for me, and although this heatwave is currently zapping the summer living life out of many, fun in the sun days and summer nights is still a working season.

Photo by Shifaaz shamoon

You may ask yourself what attributes truly define coastal design style.

Cozy (yes, cozy) lays the foundation, natural elements set the tone, serene seaside and sky scenes inspire the palette, and the implementation of classic decor accents the necessary element to create an understated yet elegant aesthetic.

Customarily when the ocean-sea-gulf floats to mind, it conjures up a canvas of natural to neutral sandy beaches, waves of water stroked in crystal blue and aqua green beautifully tipped by curls of white, skies brushed from nature’s pastel palette, and seashells by the seashore in sizes and shapes only matched in marvel by their colors, textures, and patterns.

Nevis 15-Light 2-Tier Chandelier

Varaluz Banana Leaf 6-light Chandelier

Savoy House Charter 6-Light Chandelier in Warm Brass and Rope

Distressed White 3-Light Wooden Drum Chandelier

Coastal Capiz Shell Linear Chandelier Island Pendant Light

Poppy 3 Light Matte Black Ceiling Mount

Sayulita Mexico Oil Painting

Seascape Art Print

Fish Coral Look

Blue & White Yuan Fish Open Top Jar

Woven Rattan Plantation Chair

Resin Bird Table Lamp with White Linen Shade

Willa Grey Resin Imitation Whale Shark Wall Decor

Tropical and nautical design styles align on a branch of the coastal designs of summer family tree like that of your favorite second cousin once removed, and in certain design and decor situations are most deserving of an invite to the family reunion, so to speak.

Interior decorating is all about allowing the spaces and places in the home to mirror image our tastes, interests, passion, and personality -the paradigm of personal style.

Photography by Maura McEvoy

Impressions inspire and inspiration directs decor choices.

Stone walls, sand-washed woods, regional antiques, and elegant simplicity throughout is the Maine reason I have fallen in love with Hunting Island, a restored summer cottage featured in “The Maine House,” by Maura McEvoy and Basha Burwell.

River Brook Design & Construction

Exact in the style of matches don’t always come our way.

This is where options along with a keen eye and a bit of decorative interpretation enters the picture.

Elle Decor – Photography by Francesco Lagnese

French Vintage Performance Velvet Dining Chair in Natural Teal

Gorgeous!

Barbados-Reef Cut Velvet Fabric

Court Vintage French Upholstered Fabric Dining Side Chair

Coral Chandelier

Home Adore-Homer Oatman Architects

Currey & Company Seaward Large Chandelier

Cord covers cover a multitude of unsightly sins.

Veranda – Photography by Douglas Friedman

Becca Interiors

Two styles for the price of one cohesive look is a visual bargain of the very best kind.

Achieve cozy harmony by intermingling coastal designs of summer together with pieces traditionally associated with the deep rich patina of fall.

New England Home – Photography by Nat Rea

Love your coastal designs of summer style!

Show & Tell

Go Fourth All-American Fare

All-American fare consisting of spirited sips, bbq bites, and Fourth of July dessert delights await patriotic preparation.

Country Living Magazine – Photography by Steven Randazzo

Patriotic picnic provisions.

Cotton Napkins, Buffalo Check Plaid

3ct Checkered Scrunchies by hildie & jo

Summer White Star Basket With Handle

Royal Norfolk Blue Floral Dinner Plate

The Pioneer Woman Heritage Floral Round Bowl

Biltmore® Chateau Serving Platter

Summer Mini Glitter Berry Wreath

Mainstays Unscented Decorative Mottled Pillar Candles Set

Staub Tomato Mini Stoneware Cocotte

These tasty, easy, and 4th of July spectacular recipes can be found by clicking on the link below each image.

Let’s fire up the all-American fare flavor!

The Bluecoat Red White and Blue Gin and Tonic Recipe

Refreshing beverages of the leaded and/or unleaded kind kick off the festivities.

Red, White & Blue Sparkling Juice Recipe

Sparkling Cherry Limeade Recipe

Triple Berry Sparklers Recipe

Burgers, barbecued chicken, corn dogs and ribs fire up the crowd and the grill.

Swiss Mushroom Burgers Recipe

Barbecued Picnic Chicken Recipe

State fair approved corn dogs.

Corn Dogs Recipe

BBQ Ribs with Mopping Sauce Recipe

Summer Hoppin’ John Salad Recipe

The taste of home is well-represented.

Pickled Tomatoes Recipe

No photo to share, but trust me on this one; Sue and Gloria’s Baked Beans with Pineapple recipe is all-American fare spectacular.

Sue and Gloria’s Baked Beans with Pineapple

Ingredients

4 (16 oz) cans baked beans

1 (20 oz) can drained crushed pineapple

1 cup molasses

1 cup bbq sauce

2 tablespoons or yellow mustard brown mustard

6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon

1 (6 oz) can crushed French fried onions

1 tablespoon hot sauce

2 teaspoons garlic powder

So, here’s the deal- I got this recipe for Sue and Gloria’s Baked Beans with Pineapple from an episode of Paula’s Home Cooking and tried it out for the great Fourth of July camping trip of 2008.

Oven baking is not always camping convenient, but the 7 qt. slow cooker I brought from home sure is.

Easy assemble of the recipe ingredients while drinking coffee in the morning matches the easy, slow, and low 6-8 hours cooking time until the goodness comes together for dinner.

If you prefer to oven bake this recipe, you’ll find the instructions by clicking the link above.

Kentucky Butter Cake Recipe

Kentucky Butter Cake will be the featured dessert placed front and center on our Fourth of July celebration dessert table.

My paternal grandmother copied the above recipe for pound cake from the Knoxville News Sentinel newspaper years ago.

Delightful as her copied recipe is, I’ve adjusted the recipe and cooking time & temp just a smidge to better suit the taste of the baker.

Grandmother Willie’s Pound Cake Recipe

Ingredients

2 sticks unsalted butter, softened

3 cups sugar

6 large eggs, room temperature

3 Tablespoons vanilla extract

3 Tablespoons almond extract

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon mace

¾ cup heavy whipping cream

Directions

Generously spray tube pan with cooking spray. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with a mixer at medium-high speed until combined. Add eggs, one at a time and mix to incorporate. Add vanilla extract, almond extract, and mace; mixing well.

In separate large bowl whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add ½ the dry flour mixture to creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix to combine. Pour in ½ of the heavy whipping cream mixing to combine.

Finish this step with remaining flour mixture and then ending with remaining heavy whipping cream. Spoon batter into sprayed tube pan, and place in cold oven.

Turn oven to 325°; bake until a wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, about 75 minutes. Allow cake to cool in tube pan before turning out onto cake plate.

Top with a generous scoop of Blue Bell vanilla ice cream or my favorite, Mayfield Signature Vanilla ice cream.

Garnish cocktails, punches, salads, and desserts with fresh raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries for a true red, white, and blue all-American fare taste.

Ice cream goes so good with summer and slow cooker peach cobbler.

Slow Cooker Peach Cobbler Recipe

Atlantic Beach Pie Recipe

Celebrating the 4th of July with friends and family over good food and good old fun is a let freedom ring and the good times roll summer tradition.

Go fourth and enjoy!

Show & Tell

Patriotic Party Ideas

Patriotic party ideas ranging from color-rich decorations to delicious food and beverage recipes to beat the summer heat welcome the best of 4th of July style.

Welcome Bicycle Coir Doormat

Patriotic pretty-seasonal delicious-summer essential themed decorating, entertaining, and tablescape goodies; this patriotic party ideas picnic basket is brimming with party essentials.

Southern Living-Photography by Laurey W. Glenn

Also included throughout this post will be lovely photos of interiors awash in colors red, white, and blue for the sake of continuity and stylish measure.

Mark D. Sikes

1stDibs – Photography by Emily Andrews

House Beautiful

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles

Rocking in the U.S.A. takes on a whole new meaning when I ponder the interiors and decor accents in the above image.

Dave the Builder had a rocking horse like the one in the photo when he was a little boy, and often referenced it throughout our courtship.

A friend found one while antiquing one afternoon in a neighboring city, phoned me, I purchased it via telephone, and presented it to Dave for his birthday that year.

Antique Primitive Glider Rocking Hobby Horse

Goodness only knows where it is at this point, but I do love this found treasure almost as much.

Keeping cool and comfortable is essential element number one in the party in the U.S.A. equation.

Today’s temperature in this neck of the woods…102°.

That’s hot, and not in the good way.

Popular opinion proves the only thing you want hot is the look, the style, the music, the grill, and the decor.

Lasko 3 Speed Box Fan

Don’t try to be a hot and humid hero- plug in and cool off.

Academy Sports + Outdoors Retro Lawn Chair

Call me old-fashioned, but it is my long-held belief it isn’t summer without a summer sittin’ session on the porch, deck, patio, balcony, or just out in the yard.

Who says the party has to be on dry land?

Hydro-Force River Tube

Pure joy!

Color, texture, and pattern combinations reminiscent of blue watercolors visually associated with summer strike a chord of style.

Artistic Weavers Cooke Industrial Abstract Area Rug

Artistic Weavers Cecelia Contemporary Navy Area Rug

Dip 29″ Ceramic LED Table Lamp, Blue/White by JONATHAN Y

SAFAVIEH Lighting 29-inch Color Swirls Glass Table Lamp

Leo 26″ Ceramic LED Table Lamp, Seaside Blue by JONATHAN Y

Building a celebration around patriotic party ideas is the primary theme, however, tablewares and serveware in classic summer colors and themes will stand up for use at other holiday and entertaining events.

Blue and white plates never fail to catch the eye and set a party table in classic form.

Royal Norfolk Blue Beaded Ceramic Dinner Plate

Tabletops Unlimited Carmine 4-pc. Dishwasher Safe Stoneware Salad Plate

Summer Watermelon Melamine Plate

Buffalo Check Melamine Dinner Plate

Royal Norfolk Red Beaded Ceramic Dinner Plate

Royal Norfolk Blue Floral Dinner Plate

Melamine Americana Salad Plates – Set of 4

Cotton Napkins, Buffalo Check Plaid

3ct Checkered Scrunchies by hildie & jo

Summer White Star Basket With Handle

Royal Norfolk Blue Floral Dinner Plate

The Pioneer Woman Heritage Floral Round Bowl

Biltmore® Chateau Serving Platter

Summer Mini Glitter Berry Wreath

Mainstays Unscented Decorative Mottled Pillar Candles Set

Staub Tomato Mini Stoneware Cocotte

You may be questioning the addition of the 3 ct. checkered scrunchies to the list, but hang on.

Brand spanking new, never ever used checkered scrunchies of red, white, and blue colors set off by patterns of eyelet and check will make super cute napkin rings.

Hey gang, did you know ears of fresh corn with the husks slightly peeled back exposing the corn kernels, grouped in threes, and tied with woven ribbon of your color, pattern and texture choice or metallic twisted rope makes a fresh summer centerpiece?

Keeping with the summer fresh theme, personal watermelons on a natural table runner paired with Pittosporum and Lemon Lime Nandina is yet another summer simple and summer chic centerpiece option.

Summer chic.

Easy and affordable.

Eye catching.

Baseball is a beloved summer sport.

“Baseball, hot dogs, apple pie and Chevrolet,
they go together in the good ol’ USA.”

Fill a baseball themed container with blooming flowers or greenery fresh from nature’s arts and crafts store (your yard).

Hit a charcuterie or cheese board home run with this Baseball Wood Wall Decor piece from Hobby Lobby (measures 13″ in diameter making it a good fit for a serving board).

Tip: pop off the sawtooth hanger on the back so the piece will be lay even when flat.

The Pioneer Woman Heritage Floral Round Bowl

Using small bowls and platters to house your cheeses, nuts, fruits, and meats will keep the board base clean and eliminate any cross contamination to the food from the finish.

Summer tastes highlight these go fourth and celebrate recipes.

Red White and Blue Mason Jar Salad (Fruit and Feta Salad)

Fried Crispy Chicken via Your Favorite Deli Department
How Easy and Delicious Is That?

Root Beer Baked Beans

Brined, Oven-Roasted Corn on the Cob

Fairground Corn Holders, Set Of 4

Nature lends a helping hand to assist in color coordinated food and drink.

Firecracker Sangria

Alma Blue Double Old-Fashioned Glass

Pretzel Crumb Caramel Banana Cream Pudding

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice-cream at 10, 2, and 4!

If you get it, you get it.

Simple projects result in casually elegant and a much needed accessory to help combat mosquitoes- the party guest pest of summer outdoor living times.

DIY Citronella candles – Click HERE for DIY details

Float seasonal flowers from the floral department at your local grocery store or nature’s arts and crafts store ( your yard) in a large galvanized bucket filled with water along with a floating candle for an impressive party light option.

Midwest Living

Proven patriotic classic.

Louisiana hurricane season has begun, and hurricane lanterns become a necessary addition for our storm kits. The upside of preparation is the purchase of several of these lanterns and their immediate use as outdoor party lights.

Stansport 12″ Hurricane Lantern

Fabric is a party go-to solution for making tablecloths, napkins, basket and serving dish liners.

Independence Toile

Pack a patriotic party pail for partygoers with festive items that carry out the theme and the fun.

Suggestions for items to fill your plastic beach pails with are as follows:

Men’s Ocean Flip Flops

His and hers flips and/or slides.

O’Rageous Women’s 2 Buckle Americana Slides

Battery operated plastic hand-held fans paired with individual aluminum spray bottles filled with chilled homemade rose water (the guys love this stuff almost as much as the gals).

Sparklers because they’re just so sparkly.

Photo by Ethan Hoover

Drum up the drama and set off the visual fireworks in shades, hues and tones of regal reds, shades of white, and brilliant blues.

Invite the idea of KISS, Keep It Summer Simple, to your summer soiree and patriotic celebrations.

Happy 4th of July!

Let freedom ring in all your stylish 4th of July party ideas glory.

Show & Tell

Sweet Summer Southern Tea Cakes

Sweet summer Southern tea cakes lead the topic of conversation on this particular June afternoon in the Places In The Home test kitchen.

Places In The Home defines tradition as collections, recipes, and/or generational practices from your past bringing about complete and utter joy deemed repeat worthy.

noun

tra·di·tion \trə-ˈdi-shən\

1 a : an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior (as a religious practice or a social custom)

b : a belief or story or a body of beliefs or stories relating to the past that are commonly accepted as historical though not verifiable

2: the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction

Summer has only been official for a hot minute, and the South is already experiencing oppressive heat. Frankly speaking, the only heat I’m remotely interested in on days better spent indoors is that of the oven.

Holds true for the cooks, bakers and heat haters in my family as the summertime tradition passed down in our family is a simple piece of advice- cook early, stay cool late.

However, I will make an exception when it comes to baking up a dozen or so sweet summer Southern tea cakes.

Back-Home Tea Cakes

Ingredients

½ cup shortening

1 cup sugar

1 egg

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 Tablespoon baking powder

¼ cup milk

sugar

Directions

Cream shortening; gradually add 1 cup sugar, beating well at medium speed of an electric mixer. Add egg and vanilla; beat well. Combine flour and baking powder; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk, mixing well. Cover and chill 2 hours. Work half of dough at a time, and store the remainder in refrigerator.

Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut with a 2-inch cookie cutter; place on greased cookie sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 6-8 minutes or until edges begin to brown.

Sprinkle with sugar. Cool.

Yields 3 dozen.

Mary Lou Adkins, Sulphur, LA.
Southern Living Magazine, July 1990

Here’s the aged index card recipe from which I’ve baked many a tea cake, and it means the world to me on many levels.

To me, tea cakes signify the simple, classic, and unpretentious taste of home. I like to think that’s how I roll.

Giving into part craving, part memory driven tradition I baked up a couple dozen sweet summer Southern tea cakes working with a few recipe additions and adjustments.

Photo by Laura Adai

Sweet Summer Southern Tea Cakes

Ingredients

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup butter

2 cups sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon pure almond extract

fresh lemon zest

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine flour, soda, and salt together and set aside. In separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar.

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add in vanilla extract, almond extract, and fresh lemon zest.

Beat together until combined. Stir the dry ingredient mixture into creamed butter/sugar mixture. Mix until all ingredients are blended together.

Divide dough in half; lightly dusting each half with flour. Wrap in plastic wrap or waxed paper, and place in refrigerator allowing to chill for 1 hour.

Using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out dough on lightly floured board to ¼ inch thickness. Cut out in round shapes with cookie cutter or good old dependable jelly glass.

Place cut out tea cakes on parchment paper lined cookie sheet; bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are lightly brown.

Makes 2 dozen.

If serving sweet summer Southern tea cakes for dinner is wrong I don’t want to be right.

Perhaps not the best example of a traditional dinner entree, but the combination of a summer evening coupled with a couple of sweet summer Southern tea cakes is very appetizing and oh, so summer.

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