Color Love: Decorating With The Color Red

Decorating with the color red puts a visually commanding spin on the pop of color wheel.

study-red-walls (1)

Archer & Buchanan Architecture – Photography by Tom Crane

foyer-bryant-keller-interiors-rikki-snyder

Bryant Keller Interiors – Photography by Rikki Snyder

Red draws the eye, envelopes a space in depth, and frames a focal point.

chinoiserie-wallpaper-bathroom-red-shelf

Mallory Mathison Inc.

Mikado-wallpaper

Pierre Frey Mikado Wallpaper

Chinoiserie Decorated Painted Finish Secretary Desk

Chinoiserie Decorated Painted Finish Secretary Desk

Often regarded as the traditional color of Valentine’s Day, red plays color matchmaker to the visual aesthetic integral to interior design, interior decorating, home decor, and home furnishings.

red-paint-colors-palette

Red is a warm and visually powerful color; a color as alluring as it is dramatic making it the perfect Valentine’s Day color connection.

painted-ceiling-red

Elle Decor – Photography by Stephen Kent Johnson

Design firm Studio Peregalli lets us in on the secret to captivating design features- continuity and a camouflage door.

marble-countertop-bathroom-wallpaper-door

Elle Decor

There is red velvet…

red-velvet-cake-truffles-recipe

Red Velvet Cake Truffles

and then there is red velvet.

red-velvet-fabrics

Rich.

Dramatic.

Intense.

red-velvet-theatre-seats

Alessia C_Jpg

Rather immersed in or merely kissed by, decorating with the color red fetchingly emphasizes the elements of elegance, sophistication, and eye- catching drama.

green-and-ruby-red-bedroom

Elle Decor – Photography by Douglas Friedman

In many instances of design and decorating the prominent color first to capture the eye is the one least used within the space.

pops-of-red-white-cupboard

Frederic Magazine – Photography by Nick Burchell

Natural light and the very right of the white kitchen play well with a hint of red present and beautifully accounted for.

red-party-tent (1)

Style Me Pretty – Mi Belle Photography

Entertain introducing the color red into your patio, garden, and curb appeal plans.

red-gloss-front-door-brass-hardware (1)

Paul Tobin Estate Agents

Red is a color associated with energy and enthusiasm.

kids-room-vintage-desk-as-nightstand

Andrew Howard Interior Design

It’s a powerful combination factoring into the color choices best suited for the palette purpose of the space.

red-throw-quilt-bedroom

Architectural Digest – Photography by Noe DeWitt

Be still my !

Antique-French-chair-sitting-room-sage

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles – Photography by Zeke Ruelas

How gorgeous is a traditional and not so traditional space so elegantly well-appointed in shades of red.

Salon-Salon-red-Bar-Metier

Salon Salon

red-mudroom-lockers

Zoe Feldman Design

How do I love thee color, texture, and pattern?

claw-foot-pedestal-dining-chair

Amanda Lindroth Design

Let me count the ways with chic accents and spot accessories.

blue-and-gold-pillows

Palmer Weiss

An appropriate color of the day for the day at hand, decorating with the color red is in the spotlight.

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Unique Christmas Tree Decoration Ideas

Exceptional and inspiring Christmas tree decoration ideas are wonderful by-products of holiday decorating.

Christmas-tree-Roosevelt-Hotel-New-Orleans-lobby

The Roosevelt New Orleans Waldorf Astoria Hotel

Unique interpretations of the season speak magnificently for themselves and hopefully offer unique and inspiring Christmas tree decoration ideas.

Christmas Tree decoration ideasBallard Designs

Pastels, primaries, and flocked to perfection, this stunning showstopper Christmas tree epitomizes the traditional and the whimsical spirit of the season.

flocked-tree-southern-living

Madcap Cottage – Southern Living -Photo by Hector Manuel Sanchez

This vintage themed tabletop tree mini in size and mighty in presence takes on its larger counterpart offering inspiration for smaller spaces and tabletop places in the home.

christmas-tree-ideas-vintage-tree

Good Housekeeping Magazine – Photography by Melanie Butcher

Star stacked French toast tree- delicious!

Christmas-tree-French-toast

Pinterest

Traditions of old are well represented through the Henriette von Stockhausen designed Christmas tree displayed in the entrance hall of the Regency house in the West Country.

Austrian-traditional-Christmas-tree

House & Garden – Photography by Paul Massey

tabletop-foyer-Christmas-tree-James-Farmer

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles – Photography by Emily Followill

Tabletop Christmas trees accentuate areas ideally fit for festive finery.

Say that three times!

hallway-christmas-tree-townhouse

tabletop-foyer-table-tree

Elle Decor – Josh Yöung Design House

Eclectic in nature and elegant in execution, this fireplace mantel features a center point Christmas tree bedecked in old-world flair.

John-Derian-paperless-post-christmas-tree-tinsel

John Derian – Paperless Post

moss-bottom-tabletop-Christmas-tree

Charleston designer Matthew Monroe Bees exemplifies exactly what his idea of holiday extravagance is – a once a year magical time full of visual stylish surprises.

Christmas-tree-in-blue-white-porcelain-planter-bowl

House Beautiful – Photography by Peter Frank Edwards

Dressed to impress for the season.

dress form Christmas tree

An artificial bonsai tree spray-painted in shades of gold and accented with glitter coated birds of beauty is as spectacularly unique as it is beautiful.

bonsai Christmas tree

Martha Stewart 

Doweled into the cozy modern hygge vibe, this minimalist tree becomes a modern model of new traditional.

dowel Christmas tree

Better Homes & Gardens

Celestial charm.

celestial-Christmas-tree

Elle Decor – Anthropologie

jasperware-Christmas-tree

Martha Stewart

Wedgwood Jasperware came to be in the late 18th century, and to faithful collectors remains a sought after collectible.

Jasperware pieces in colors of blue and green adorn glittering branches to create a unique holiday tree.

moss-skirt-Christmas-tree

House & Garden Magazine – Photography by Rachel Whiting

chalkboard-Christmas-tree

Hunted Interior

 Whimsical creativity draws the eye to these unique interpretations.

Christmas-tree-on-wall-tulle-skirt

Style Me Pretty

elegant-Christmas-tree (1)

Rowen & Wren

Woodland-inspired trimmed is on trend and on point.

woodland-inspired-Christmas-tree

Martha Stewart

christmas-tree-candlelight (1)

Vintage touches evokes memories of yesteryear.

House & Home

It’s a festive fest of wonder found under the tree with this under the sea lobster adorned Christmas tree in all its ruby red and gorgeous gold glory.

red-lobster-Christmas-tree

Elle Decor – Bronson van Wyck

Pencil trees in pairs and pattern.

pencil-christmas-trees

Traditional Home

Puttin’ on the Ritz.

Ritz-Carlton-New-Orleans-Christmas-Tree-2024

Ritz Carlton New Orleans

This circa 1946 photograph of Charles Eames, designer extraordinaire, with a Christmas tree made of molded plywood chair legs is creative genius.

Eames-christmas-tree

LOC

All that glitters is gorgeous, grapevine, and gold gilt.

grapevine-christmas-tree-in-urn

Nell Hill’s

 Festively flocked and perfectly perched.

flocked-tree-house-and-home

House and Home

Pretty in pink, blue, and shiny bright pastels.

blue-pink-color-scheme-flocked-Christmas-tree

Southern Living – Photography by Hector Manuel Sanchez

Fresh greens, candlelight, and a skirt of apples eloquently convey the message step into Christmas!

Southern-Christmas-foyer

Traditional Home

O Christmas topiary tree!

topiary-Christmas-foyer

Southern Living – Photography by Melina Hammer

Your designer, luscious, vintage, delicious, whimsical, and traditional with a spirited twist branches beautifully engage and delight us.

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Christmas Kitchen Decor

December’s arrival comes with decking the halls and the heart of the home activity, which brings us to this holiday roundup of Christmas kitchen decor finds.

decorations-for-a-Christmas-kitchen

Country Living Magazine – Photography by Becky Luigart-Stayner

Nest is bandied about during these cool and getting colder months as many of us find spending quality indoor time the preferred way to go.

a place of rest, retreat, or lodging: home

Nesting also fits into the cozy at-home equation

nesting
/ ˈnɛstɪŋ /

the tendency to arrange one’s immediate surroundings, such as a workstation, to create a place where one feels secure, comfortable, or in control.

vintage-Christmas-morning-gifts

Boston Public Library

More and more I tend to look at the word nest in terms of a acronym.

nest-graphic

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nostalgia

Evokes

Simpler

Times

Reverend Robert Walker Skating on Duddingston Loch 1

The Skating Minister

oranges-apples-on-blue-white-platter

Flower Magazine – Photography by Mary Craven Dawkins

Decorating with fresh fruit at Christmastime dates back generations with old-fashioned symbolism based in the abundance of nature, gifts of gold, and family togetherness.

framed-orange-pears-wall-art

Framed Orange Pears Wood Wall Decor

Fruit-Basket-Decorative-Tabletop-Centerpiece

Fruit Basket Decorative Tabletop Centerpiece

Old world beauty comes to call by placing Christmas ornaments and faux fruits in decorative bowls and/or baskets.

glass-ornaments-orange-slices

Photo by Yuliia Kucherenko

Christmas cuteness just hanging around.

cat-ornaments

Photo by Erica Marsland Huynh 

“Christmas cookies are the sweet reminders of merry moments.”

—Unknown

Christmas kitchen decor

Cath Kidston Ceramic House Treat Jar-1

Cath Kidston Ceramic House Treat Jar

Pepperidge-Farm-holiday-cookies

Santa will get a big kick out of his cookies being placed on this gingerbread house plate.

gingerbread-house-appetizer-plate

Godinger Gingerbread House Appetizer Plate

Deck, dress, and dazzle cabinet doors and window frames with fresh or faux wreaths and garlands.

holiday-wreaths-greenery-kitchen-cabinets

House Beautiful – Photography by Erin Kunkel

Nature and texture form a traditional bond creating a classic yet fresh addition to your indoor Christmas decorating scheme.

faux-wreath-ribbon - Copy

15″ Christmas Pine Leaf With Ribbon Bow

wreath-tied-to-wall-sconce

Flower Magazine – Photography by Mary Craven Dawkins

Fresh or faux wreaths and garlands paired with velvet ribbon remains a timeless choice of Christmas decoration.

Boxwood Wreath by Bloom Room

Boxwood Wreath by Bloom Room

Santa Head Tabletop Décor by Ashland

Santa Head Tabletop Decor by Ashland

kitchen-Christmas-florals

Elle Decor – Photography by Jenn Verrier

Rosemary trees pull scent and shape double duty in the Christmas kitchen scheme of things.

Park Designs Number 2 Crock/Planter

Park Designs Number 2 Crock/Planter

Terra cotta planters and/or stoneware crocks become simple yet elegant decor complements for holiday decorating.

Christmas-decoration-kitchen-1

O come let us adorn thee!

 Fresh Evergreen Cedar Christmas Garland (Live)

Fresh Evergreen Cedar Christmas Garland (Live)

christmas-kitchen-decorations-bar-butcher-block

Country Living Magazine – Photography by Rikki Snyder

Multicolor Christmas Village Embroidered Kitchen Towel

Multicolor Christmas Village Embroidered Kitchen Towel

wreaths-kitchen-windows-holiday-house

Elle Decor – Anthropologie

Light the holiday night with the soft lighting of a night light, table lamp, or LED ceramic house.

St. Nicholas Square® Glass Snowflake Night Light

St. Nicholas Square® Glass Snowflake Night Light

Maiori Striped Papier Mache Table Lamp - Red

Maiori Striped Papier Mache Table Lamp – Red

Remind you of anything?

peppermint-sticks-in-silver-cups-1

Good Housekeeping

LED Lit Plated Ceramic House Christmas Figurine

LED Lit Plated Ceramic House Christmas Figurine

Hearken back to Victorian Christmas days and nights with a LED taper candle in holiday theme keeping company with the only mouse welcome in the kitchen.

Vintage Style Intrepid Mouse Candleholder, 5 Inch Tall, Brass Finish

Vintage Style Intrepid Mouse Candleholder, 5 Inch Tall, Brass Finish

My thought on the whole Christmas kitchen decor rug matter is an uncomplicated one; let color, texture, and pattern drive the decision first and foremost.

SAFAVIEH-Hand-hooked-Vintage-Poster-Arvida-Holiday-Wool-Rug

Hand Hooked Holiday Wool Rug

Machine-Washable-Indoor--Outdoor-Holiday-Nutcracker-Chantille-Rug (1)

Machine Washable Indoor/ Outdoor Holiday Nutcracker Chantille Rug

Secondly, select a size and shape option that can be used as a runner or spot accent easy to roll up and store after the holidays.

Clause-Reversible-Woven-Holiday-Rug

Clause Reversible Woven Holiday Rug

Christmas comes but once a year, and for many decorating the spaces and the places in the home is one of the highlights of the season.

Christmas kitchen decor adorns the heart of the home in festive touches of the holiday season.

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Settling In With Cozy And A Good Book

Crisp autumn days and evenings are perfect for settling in with cozy and a good book.

a good book

“I like this place and could willingly waste my time in it.”

― William Shakespeare

reading-nook-autumn-day

Better Homes & Gardens – Photography by Joyelle West

Nook.

Corner.

Spot.

Nest.

fall-porch (1)

Dress your designated place of peace, if only for a chapter or five, with attributes at the ready for enhancing the settling in with cozy and a good book session.

box-with-books-near-hot-drink-plaid (1)

Designed by Freepik

To every season there is a good read, and this selection of suggestions accentuates the beauty, the delicious, the design, the visual, and the harvest of heart.

Autumn-a-novel

Autumn: A Novel (Seasonal Quartet) by Ali Smith

The Slow Down : For the Love of Home (Hardcover)

The Slow Down : For the Love of Home (Hardcover)

 Autumn Splendour: A Visual Symphony of Fall: Coffee Table Book

Autumn Splendour: A Visual Symphony of Fall: Coffee Table Book

Half-Baked-Harvest-Super-Simple-Is-Here

Half Baked Harvest Super Simple: More Than 125 Recipes for Instant, Overnight, Meal-Prepped, and Easy Comfort Foods: a Cookbook

Taste of fall (winter, spring, and summer as well) deliciousness is discovered in the recipes from Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest Super Simple and her new cookbook Quick & Cozy set for release November 18, 2024.

quick-and-cozy-cookbook

Half Baked Harvest Quick & Cozy Cookbook

Southern-Interiors-A-Celebration-of-personal-style-Schumacher-interior-design-book

Southern Interiors : A Celebration of Personal Style [A Schumacher Interior Design Book] (Hardcover)

a-poem-for-every-Autumn-day

A Poem for Every Autumn Day (A Poem for Every Day and Night of the Year)

I am a homebody

Murphy Sketches

“May the joy of simple things color the canvas of your soul.”

—Mary Davis

Darleen-signature-love

Setting A Coastal Dinner Party Scene

Summer pairs well with a coastal dinner party, however, this consummate favorite design style inspires setting a visually dazzling table at any time of year.

coastal-white-neutral-dining-room (1)

Christina Kim Interior Design – Photography by Raquel Langworthy

Selecting coastal dinner party accents and accessories pieces to complement and dazzle is the part of the process I liken to adding the perfect jewelry, shoes, and bag to a couture ensemble.

Murano Glass Chandelier

Murano Glass Chandelier

Dazzle lives in the details.

Safavieh Idola White Washed Dining Chairs (Set of 2)

Idola White Washed Dining Chairs (Set of 2)

Pine-Wood-Dining-Table

Pine Wood Dining Table

Curvilinear Rattan Cushioned Dining Chair by East at Main

Curvilinear Rattan Cushioned Dining Chair by East at Main

Furniture-of-America-Brec-Rustic-White-48-inch-Dining-Table

Furniture of America Brec Rustic White 48-inch Pedestal Dining Table

Adelina Ivory Traditional Roll Arm Dining Chair with Hooded Caster Wheels

Adelina Ivory Traditional Roll Arm Dining Chair with Hooded Caster Wheels

bali-pari-Abena-Light-Honey-Rattan-Wicker-4-Legs-Dining-Table-Seats-4

Abena Light Honey Rattan Wicker 4 Legs Dining Table Seats 4

Traditional pieces bring your look together, however, it’s often the not so traditional items that make the biggest splash.

coastal-tabletop-vignette

Victoria Magazine

Table-hop from accent to dining tabletop by borrowing from your favorite vignettes and displays.

coastal-dinner-party-vignette

Victoria Magazine

white-shell-box

White Seashell Box

neutral-swirl-dinner-and-salad-plates

Spiral Sketch Dinner Plates, Set of 4
Spiral Sketch Salad Plates, Set of 4

Cast a wide net in the search for the perfect accents to do your seaside soirée visual justice.

pink-swirl-salad-plates

Tableau Salad Plates, Set of 4

Dusty Blue Cheesecloth Table Runner

Cotton Linen Table Runner with Handmade Fringed

Cotton Linen Table Runner with Handmade Fringed

Indoors or al fresco, casual chic cozies up to good times.

outdoor-seaside-coastal-dinner-party

Williams Sonoma

Embellish-graphic-t-pins

shells-charger (1)

Hot glue decorative shells to plate chargers for a simple to do-simply elegant effect.

lighting-graphic

ty-pennington-shell-sandstone-outdoor-led-garden-statue-9

Shell Sandstone Outdoor LED Garden Statue

LED garden statues light up the indoor ambiance as well.

Showcase your coastal centerpiece with a pair of lovely LED garden statues placed in close proximity.

Scallop Sandstone Outdoor LED Garden Statue

Scallop Sandstone Outdoor LED Garden Statue, 10″

Soft lighting is an essential component of ambience.

Coral Candleholders

Coral Candleholders

Candlelight produces a soft light which promotes a sense of cozy- a delightful guest of honor.

Better Homes and Gardens Glass Pillar Candle Holder Hurricane Large Smoke

Better Homes and Gardens Glass Pillar Candle Holder Hurricane Large Smoke

Clear Glass Decorative Candle Lantern with Rope Handle

Clear Glass Decorative Candle Lantern with Rope Handle

Extra seating?

Palm-Bohemian-Honey-Scallop-Rattan-Ottoman

Palm Bohemian Honey Scallop Rattan Ottoman

SAFAVIEH-Manor-Natural-Wicker-X-Bench

Safavieh Manor Bench

Purse stool? (I love this idea!)

oyster-delicacies

Freepik

vintage-oyster-plate

Hand Painted Antique Japanese Oyster Plate

cocktails-graphic

coastal-lounge-seating

Boheme Mykonos Hotel

Memories of summer times spent on the Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida Gulf Coast beaches drive my bar and drinkware choices and suggestions.

honey-bali-pari-console-table-scalloped

Palm 54.3 in. Honey Rectangle Wicker Console Table

Wicker fits beautifully into the coastal design style, and the Palm Honey Wicker Console Table becomes the perfect accent for your coastal chic home bar.

fish-vase-blue-green

Carafe Fish Glass, Set of 1

Rex Tumblers - Set of 4

Rex Tumblers – Set of 4

Halli 8 oz. Crystal Martini Glass (Set of 2)

Better Homes & Gardens Clear Glass Flared Stemless Cocktail Glass

Better Homes & Gardens Clear Glass Flared Stemless Cocktail Glass

Perle Wine Goblet (Set of 2)

Perle Wine Goblet (Set of 2)

Figural Shell Champagne Bucket

Hand Made Ice Bucket Cooler Sea Shell Styrofoam

Bites and bits of breads and crackers stack nicely in this scallop edge basket.

small-woven-scallop-edge-basket-threshold

Woven Scallop Edge Basket

Place a spot table tableside to mix and serve cocktails from.

woven-side-table

Natural Water Hyacinth Woven Side Table

5-piece-whiskey-set-with-decanter-4-double-old-fashioned-glasses

5 Piece Whiskey Set with Decanter and 4 Double Old Fashioned Glasses

orange-cloudy-sky-over-beach-at-sunset

Photo by Silas Baisch

Sea to sky color-coordinated.

True Colors Wine Glasses, Set of 4

True Colors Wine Glasses, Set of 4

lombok-rattan-wine-cart-natural-brown

Lombok Natural Rattan Wine Cart

blue-heron-Cocktail-Napkins-Disposable-Napkin-20-Count

aquarium decor coral ornament

coastal-pillar-candle

turquoise-Morgan-Decanter

Turquoise Morgan Decanter

Marta Ombre Green Double Old-Fashioned Glass by Azeeza

Marta Ombre Green Double Old-Fashioned Glass by Azeeza

coastal-theme-barware-drinkware

Coastal Metal Fish Design Bottle Opener

Genesis Blue Carafe

Thyme & Table 20 fl oz Tortoise Drinking Glass, White

acopa-clear-fish-glass

Acopa 12 oz. Fish Glass

 

Jaws-Shark-3D-Engraved-Whiskey-Bottle

Jaws.

Fifty years of coastal conversations for sure!

Spode Blue Italian Set of 4 Double Old Fashioned Glasses

Spode Blue Italian Set of 4 Double Old Fashioned Glasses

Mesa Mia Chapala Blue Ombre Serving Pitcher

Mesa Mia Chapala Blue Ombre Serving Pitcher

Consider using a sea urchin planter or decorative clam shell as a snazzy home bar accessory for stirrers and ice cubes.

sea-urchin-tabletop-planter

White and Gray Clam shell

shell-toothpicks

Coastal themed cocktail accessories make a stylish splash as the perfect mix and marvel bar accessories garnish.

Wooden Hand Carved Dolphin on Coral Statue

Wooden Hand Carved Dolphin on Coral Statue

Distressed-Metal-Whale-Tail-Wall

Distressed Metal Whale Tail Wall Decor

Decorative pedestals or even a wooden flower pot base will take your food and beverage display to new heights.

Certified International Coastal Landscape Chip & Dip Server

Certified International Coastal Landscape Chip & Dip Server

Creole-style-home-Lake-Charles-Louisiana

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles – Photography by Emily Followill

Sourcing and suggesting this pair based on the classic form, style, color, and price.

4-Piece 20oz Tortoise Brown Drinking Glass Set

4-Piece 20oz Tortoise Brown Drinking Glass Set

beachcombers-12-fighting-fish-wood-figure-coastal-beach-house-decor-decoration

Beachcombers 12″ Fighting Fish Wood Figure

wood-look-dark-grain-charger-plate

Wood Look Grain Charger Plate

stoneware-dinner-plate-yellow-fish

Coastal 9″ Stoneware Dinner Plate Yellow Fish

Better-Homes-Gardens-Jute-Flower-Placemats (1)

Better Homes and Gardens Jute Flower Design Placemat

Elle-Decor-Colored-Vintage-Wine-Glasses-Set-of-6

Elle Decor Colored Vintage Wine Glasses Set of 6 – Amber

Bloom Tamarind Wood Bowl

Bloom Tamarind Wood Bowl

Ostindia Egg Cup Set of 2 Design by Anna Lerinder for Iittala

Sea waves and ocean breezes come to mind with this pattern.

Frill-Reactive-12-Pc-Dinnerware-Set

Frill Reactive 12 Pc Dinnerware Set

Elena Salad Plates, Set of 4Elena Salad Plates, Set of 4

oven-roasted-Greek-snapper

Oven-Roasted Greek Snapper Recipe

star-fruit-11-inch-wide-matte-white-modern-ceramic-bowl

Star Fruit Bowl

Certified International Beyond the Shore Serving Bowl

Certified International Beyond the Shore Serving Bowl

blue-and-white-julo-platter

Julo Blue and White Platter

wood-appetizer-plates Wine Appetizer Plates, Set Of 4

Round Burlwood Tabletop Tray with Gold Handles by Drew Barrymore

Round Burlwood Tabletop Tray with Gold Handles by Drew Barrymore

Set Of 4 Outdoor Woodgrain Dinner Plates

Set Of 4 Outdoor Woodgrain Dinner Plates

Vintage Set of 12 EPNS silver plated fish eaters - knife & fork fish cutlery with sterling silver ferruels

Vintage Set of 12 EPNS Silver Plated Knife & Fork Fish Cutlery

OYSTER Pearl Silver Large Bowl

OYSTER Pearl Silver Large Bowl

Large Clam Shells

decorative-large-gold-clam-shell

Amazon

Stepping away from the norm is more my rule than exception when it comes to seizing the opportunity to use pieces for something different other than their intended purpose.

OYSTER Platinum Silver Small Bowl - 1 PieceOYSTER Platinum Silver Small Bowl

Using serving bowls in an array of by the sea shapes, colors, textures, and patterns elevate the presentation of everything from steamed vegetables to seafood specialties to cocktail garnishes.

BESTONZON Coconut Bowls Natural Coconut Shell Storage Bowl Coconut Serving Bowls Candy Container Nuts HolderBESTONZON Natural Coconut Shell Serving Bowls

Oyster Salt and Pepper Dishes

Oyster Salt and Pepper Dishes

Vintage sterling silver serving pieces are an investment in impressive.

vintage-silver-seafood-serving-piecesSpode Woodland King Salmon Fish Dish

Tempeste Platter

Entertaining rule of kiss (keep is seaside simple) applies to centerpiece ideas.

coastal-tablescape-photo-John-O'Hagan

The Cottage Journal – Photography by John O’Hagan

Decorative round wall mirrors placed in the center of a dining table complement candles and centerpieces.

Ruffled-Metal-Wall-Accent-Mirror-gold

oyster shell table runner 6'

Oyster Shell Table Runner by Treasures of GG 

This beach inspired arrangement of fresh flowers and foliage placed in a large clam shell is easy to replicate and appropriately inspiring.

beach-inpsired-fresh-flowers-in-clam-shell

Flower Magazine – Photography by Paul Johnson Photography

BenJara Medium Clam Shell Accent, White

BenJara Medium Clam Shell Accent, White

lava-stone-look-vase

Lava Stone-Look Vase

Sagebrook-Home-Stoneware-Ceramic-Vase

Sagebrook Home Stoneware Ceramic Vase

Dollar stores are a treasure trove of tabletop accessories and supplies for setting and decorating.

coastal-stems-shells

Better-Homes-Gardens-10-Brown-Woven-Faux-Rattan-Indoor-Vase

Better Homes & Gardens Woven Faux Rattan Indoor Vase

Bulk shells, knobby starfish, accent gems, decorative sand and river rocks make a decorative splash as anchor embellishments.

brown-shells

options-graphic

 Helmet Aquarium Ornament - Bronze, Gold

Helmet Aquarium Ornament – Bronze, Gold

Aquarium decorations make for fantastic under the sea theme accents.

sea-shells-starfish-coral-table-setting-accents

Bead and tassel garlands.

Ribbon and rope in favorite coastal color, texture, and pattern.

Seashells of various shapes and sizes.

My-Texas-House-Jute-Natural-Woven-Napkin-Rings-Set-of-4 (1)

Tying ribbon around a decorative starfish finishing with a loose bow creates a simple yet seaside stunning effect.

glass cylinder vases

For a small amount of money you can create an impressive DIY tabletop focal point or decorative companion piece.

Glass cylinder vases filled with decorative sea shells of various colors, textures, and patterns become a tabletop showstopper.

essentials-graphic-1

Glass cylinder vases

Twisted rope wired edge ribbon

Coastal inspired fillers and/or embellishments (decorative sand, shells, pearls)

rope-wrapped-cylinder-vase

Wrap the rope around the bottom of a glass cylinder, tucking ends into rope.

Fill cylinder with decorative filler of choice.

Place a pillar candle atop decorative fillers to create a soft and inviting light. 

rope-wrapped-glass-vase-with-shells

Summer clearance sales result in an opportune time to stock up on great pieces at good prices.

Decorative pearl trim looped through a coastal themed pendant or bead results in a stylish napkin ring and a little gift of to you from me lagniappe to take home.

pearl-trim-sea-shells

Cholla wood used as place card holders or knife rests uniquely carry out the by the sea theme.

cholla Wood for Aquarium

From place settings to centerpieces and all the ambiance in between, coastal dinner party accents and accessories set a lovely scene and a lovely table.

Darleen-signature-love

 

 

 

Early Spring Into Easter

Early spring into Easter color awakenings through spring color palette choices are upon us.

multi-color-tulips-spring

Colors of the season shake off the last of winter’s remnants with the help of warm mid-afternoon breezes, hints of pastel petals, the yellow dusting of pollen (you want pretty flowers, don’t you?), the hum of lawnmowers, and seasonal treats featuring fresh strawberries.

strawberries-in-season

Photo by Anna Tukhfatullina Food Photographer/Stylist on Unsplash

Color wakes up a space in the same manner that spring wakes up color from its winter hibernation.

Farmers' Market Herb Live Wreath & Garland

Farmers’ Market Herb Live Wreath & Garland

Spring moves the clock forward, presents the perfect time to organize and clean, and wakes up the color all around us.

green-velvet-sofa-fringe

Amal Kapen Interiors

Easy and affordable ways to incorporate the best of the season into your home and garden is to update and refresh through accents and accessories.

Accents and accessories in fresh, lively, and warm colors of spring renews our interiors and exteriors, elevates our moods, and brushes away the heaviness of winter.

new-for-spring-home-decor

Machine Washable Indoor/ Outdoor Chantille Floral Rug

Charlotte Moss Flowers Book

3d Floral Ceramic Table Lamp

4pc Porcelain Bunny Hill Salad Plates

Rustic Toile Pillow

More Monet Framed Wall Art

Scalloped Bottom Skirted Dining Chair

putting flowers in vase

 

 

 

 

 

 

de-gournay-Bayville-Chinoiserie

de Gournay Bayville Chinoiserie

Wallpaper or paint?

In certain situations, coupled with certain tastes, here’s where I stand on the matter.

Why not both?

paint-color-samples-display

Photo by Clay Banks

Touches of color, texture, and pattern can automatically pack a space with immediate focal point potential.

green-pendant-light-breakfast-room-Cameron-Ruppert-Interiors

Cameron Ruppert Interiors

“Only those who love color are admitted to its beauty
and immanent presence. It affords utility to all,
but unveils its deeper mysteries only to its devotees.”

— Johannes Itten

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Flower Magazine – Photography by Paul Costello

Subtle in nature and brilliant in execution, the color white does indeed make a strong and complementing canvas for the space to show its true colors.

nordic-ware-honey-hive-loaf-pan

Nordic Ware Honey Hive Loaf Pan

Uncomplicated updates translate into simply elevated elegant selections ready for the spring into summer season.

Easter Basket Flower Cake

Easter Basket Flower Cake

Jadeite Footed Loop Design Cake Stand

spring-vase-faux-flowers

Nature’s timing doesn’t always cooperate with early spring into Easter plans for fresh stems and bouquets, so to that I say pick a few faux fabulous stand-ins and let the spring preview begin!

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Flickr

Running Rabbit Garden Statue

Running Rabbit Garden Statue

You say planter, I say perfect serving piece for the Easter dinner table.

rabbit-statue-salad-bowl-serveware

Color breathes life into the space to freshen and renew the look.

pastels-in-nature

Photo by James Wheeler

“The day the Lord created hope was
probably the same day he created Spring.”

– Bernard Williams

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Naturally Striking Fall Arrangements

Naturally striking fall arrangements featuring the best of the season’s natural elements epitomize the true beauty and color of the season.

gourd-pinecone-table-centerpiece

Better Homes & Gardens – Photography by Edmund Barr

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Sweet Something Designs

Visit your lawn and garden, local produce market, hobby store, or better yet, drive out to areas of the local countryside flush with the season’s natural elements for fresh and/or faux items needed to create a foliage focal point or spot arrangement.

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Bittersweet

Foraging for seasonal leaves and branches serves a dual purpose – autumn treasure hunt and picnic opportunity.

fall-picnic-table

Photo by Stephanie Klepacki

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Southern Living Magazine – Photography by Robbie Caponetto

Particular decorating circumstances and seasonal flower arrangements reflect the more the merrier approach.

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New England Home

Green Waffle Daisy Pattern Butter Crock

peeled-corns-fall

Photo by Bart Heird 

Still a favorite example of a simple yet elegant fall/autumn arrangement made possible by nature comes together with a vintage waffle weave daisy pattern crock, small ears of Indian corn, branches of berries.

autumnal-arrangement-leaves-vase

Better Homes and Gardens – Photography by Marty Baldwin

Holiday gatherings.

Weddings.

Corporate events.

There’s so much to be said for this lovely season, this fall of autumn spectacular where nature’s wonder beautifully serves as the principal decor accent and accessory.

vegetable fall arrangement

Midwest Living – Photography by Michael Partenio

In season veggies, fruits, and berries mixed and mingled among flowers of varied colors and types prove a fanciful focal point arrangement.

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S. B. Long Interiors

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Country Living Magazine – Photography by Ali Harper

Vintage pewter, silver, porcelain pitchers, sugar bowls, creamers, tole trays, and transferware bowls complement and add warmth to naturally striking fall arrangements.

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Good Housekeeping

Various shades green, red, amber, and brown set fall’s color wheel into decorating motion.

acorns-Charlotte-Moss

Pinterest

Beauty abounds in simplicity, and practice and patience teaches me to never shy from taking the less is more route.

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Better Homes and Gardens

Some of the most striking seasonal arrangements are born out of simplicity “peared” with balance and placement.

Asian Pear Arrangement

Country Living

Clear cylinder vases filled with branch bouquets in their natural state or painted in tones of gold, silver, bronze, or copper become a simple yet elegant addition to your fall decor.

fall-flower-arrangements

Autumnal Berry Branches

Seasonal fruits, vegetables, foliage and nuts make wonderful ingredients for fall recipes, but boy, do they shine in fall arrangements and centerpieces.

fall fruit centerpiece

Country Living

fall-vegetables-centerpiece

Southern Living Magazine – Photography by Robbie Caponetto

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Robyn’s French Nest

pumpkin centerpiece

Stunning sums up this DIY pumpkin centerpiece with roses, mums, and broom cob from Jenny Steffens.

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Victoria Magazine

naturally striking fall arrangements

Martha Stewart

Pumpkins and apples make their debut in the beginning of fall, and these seasonal decorating essentials become quite the exquisite floral accompaniment to fresh seasonal flowers and cuttings.

autumn-centerpieces-apple-candleholdersCountry Living

Naturally striking fall arrangements rich in seasonal color(s) and texture(s) make an impressive addition to your fall decor.

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Easter Decor, Dishes and Desserts

Easter decor, dishes, and desserts hops to mind at this time of year.

 Carrot Painting, Art for Kitchen

Carrot Art Giclee Still Life Print

To look upon beautiful Easter decor as a work of art is no over eggaggeration of the term. Selecting items for show and tell comes with thought.

gold-dragonfly-accent

Sure, a rabbit here and a bunny there is called for, but mostly my choices play to pastels, themes and dishes appropriate for the entire spring into summer season.

faux-pink-stems-variety

Faux picks and bushes in ever lovely shades of pink were recently purchased with the Easter decor centerpiece in mind.

garden-stroll

On the Saturday afternoon before Easter Sunday I’ll stroll around the yard gathering assorted fresh greenery stems to fill in the spring bouquet.

spring vegetable board

Spring Vegetable Board

Easter company will love this fresh with full on color and nibbles spring vegetable board from My Moonstone Kitchen.

Click on the link below the photo for recipe information.

roast-pork-loin

Country Living – Photography by John Kernick

Roast Pork Loin with Herb Stuffing

Ingredients

1⁄3 cup kosher salt

1⁄3 cup sugar

2 teaspoon juniper berries

2 teaspoon cardamom pods

2 teaspoon whole peppercorns

1 teaspoon allspice berries

2 bay leaves, lightly crushed

1 (3 ¾ to 4 pound) pork loin roast, trimmed, butterflied, and tied

3 tbsp. butter

3  stalks celery, finely diced

1  small onion, finely diced

3  garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 cups panko breadcrumbs

1 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 tbsp. chopped fresh sage

2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

¼  cup chicken stock

Directions

In a medium pot, bring 2 cups water, salt, sugar, juniper, cardamom, peppercorns, allspice, and bay leaves to a boil.  Stir to dissolve sugar and salt.  Remove from heat and stir in 4 cups cold water.  Set brining liquid aside and let cool to room temperature, 20 to 30 minutes.

Place pork loin in a 2-gallon resealable plastic bag and carefully pour in cooled brining liquid. Seal and refrigerate, 8 to 12 hours.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until sizzling. Add celery, onion, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.  Add breadcrumbs, parsley, sage, and thyme, stirring to combine, and cook 1 minute more.  Add chicken stock and toss until breadcrumbs have absorbed all of the liquid.

Remove stuffing from heat and let cool to room temperature, 30 minutes. (Stuffing can be made up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated.  Bring to room temperature before using.)

Preheat oven to 500°F.  Remove pork loin from bag and discard brine; pat meat dry with a paper towel.  On a work surface, untie pork loin so that it lies flat, fat side down.  Spread stuffing mixture atop meat in an even layer. Starting from one of the long sides, roll the pork loin into a tight spiral.  Tie at 1 ½-inch intervals with 12-inch lengths of kitchen twine.

In a roasting pan fitted with a rack, place pork loin fat side up.  Roast 15 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 250°F.  Continue to cook for about 1 hour and 35 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the pork loin reaches 145°F.

Transfer pork loin to a wire rack to rest for 15 minutes before serving.

-Country Living Magazine

floral compound butter

Edible-Flower Compound Butter

Ingredients

2 teaspoons green peppercorns

2 teaspoons white peppercorns

2 teaspoons black peppercorns

1 teaspoon pink peppercorns

1 pound butter, softened

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives

1 tablespoon minced shallot

2 teaspoons minced garlic

2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano

Radish flowers

Society garlic flowers

Oyster leaf flowers

Directions

In a coffee grinder or using a mortar and pestle, grind green, white, black, and pink peppercorns until crushed.

Using a medium bowl, beat butter with a mixer at medium-high speed until smooth.  Add peppercorns, chives, shallot, garlic, and oregano.  Beat at medium speed until combined.

Transfer from mixer to parchment paper. Form butter into a log.  Press radish flowers, garlic flowers, and oyster leaf flowers onto log.  Roll in parchment, and twist at both ends. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Victoria Magazine

speckled-malted-coconut-cake

Speckled Malted Coconut Cake

Knock out roses coming into spring view serve vase and creations.

red knockout roses

Be it from the supermarket bakery or cake mix box, decorating the top of a  spring or Easter dessert cake with flowers or candies is an easy way to take  desserts to visually pleasing heights.

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File this for Mother’s Day brunch ideas.

raspberry-cloud-cake-recipe

Raspberry Cloud Cake

Buttercream frosting tinted to a soft yellow topped with edible flowers delivers a simply elegant result.

Pansies offer loads of color, plant and prosper rather easily, and make a fantastic visual and flavorful splash when added to salads and spring desserts.

pansies-in-garden

When decorating dishes and desserts and garnishing beverages with edible flowers you’ll want to pick the flowers early in the morning.

Gently rinse off your gathered flowers with cool water allowing to dry on a paper towel.  Add garnish immediately before serving.

If using flowers at a later time you can place them in the refrigerator where they will keep for 2-3 days.

buttermilk-cupcakes-with-swiss-meringue-buttercream

Buttermilk Cupcakes with Swiss Meringue Buttercream

Cadbury mini eggs, chocolate almond bark shavings, and an egg carton display elevate these vanilla cupcakes to an Easter dessert eggstravaganza.

White Chocolate Easter Egg Cupcakes

White Chocolate Easter Egg Cupcakes

Cadbury mini eggs, chocolate almond bark shavings, and an egg carton display elevate these vanilla cupcakes to an Easter dessert eggstravaganza.

fresh eggs

Farm fresh eggs ready to go for Easter decor, dishes and desserts.

Creamy-Lemon-Tart-Recipe-with-Almond-Crust

Easy Creamy Lemon Tart Recipe with Almond Crust Recipe

Thoughtful touches and delicious treats dressed with visually impressive details invite charm to spring get-togethers and Easter celebrations.

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