Dining Dilemmas

As we are halfway into our second year in our new home I still can't believe how I haven't made my mind up on so much of the decorating. One item that has been on my to do list was finding new dining chairs. Since we spend most of our time in the open concept main room where the kitchen, the living rom and dining room are all in, it seems sensible to have those pieces be first priority. Since we want to stay here as long as possible while we search for a forever home to purchase I still want the decor to reflect our personal style. So I am turning to you all for your insight and help in selecting a new chair for our main room dining. Our dilemma lies with all the varieties of wood in one room which has me leaning towards an upholstered chair to break up the off white kitchen, the dark mahogany built in's and coordinate it to the color of the table top. Which one of the six is your favorite??? 

   

one // two // three // four // five // six // table

 all kitchen items can be found here

The Gift Closet

While shopping in Boston's hip South End neighborhood one day, one of my dear friends mom mentioned an idea of a gift closet in a home where you could keep a few trinkets on hand to gift to friends and family as small special occasions took place. Don't get me wrong, I love to shop for a gift that is perfect for each individual recipient but I thought this was a genius idea for small gestures and was so excited to put together a little round up of some ideas I had. All the items below are under $25 and suit all different tiny celebrations in life or just a simple sign of kindness to someone who may need a pick me up. To make the gift a bit more personal to the receiver just add a thoughtful card {my favorite part of a gift} and some chic gift wrap {which is always excellent to have on hand as well}.

one - Is there anything that smells better then fresh basil on a home cooked meal? I absolutely love it in everything from cocktails to savory dishes and beyond. This seed kit {also available in mint & rosemary} is such a great gift for the home chef or gardener. It also perfectly pairs with this petite vintage planter or these colorful mini vases that are $8!

two - Candles are always a great go to gift for new homes or just because your thinking of them. I love giving them with a cute pack of matches {this scent is my favorite & always burning in our home}.

three - Bringing flowers to a party just from the market also brings work to the recipient. Add an affordable vase that only needs a few buds to make a great gift. Also love this trio of a similar style.

four - The packaging along on this gift is reason to give to someone a little bit of luxury for $20.

five - A new home gift can be something small & budget friendly. These adorable mason jar salt & pepper shakers are under $10. I also love the mini oil & vinegar set too, crazy for $3! 

six - Newly engaged gal? This pretty pink dish is a great place to store her new sparkler when she isn't wearing it. Also available in a square shape.

seven - A set of coasters tied in simple ribbon are always nice to bring when someone is hosting you for dinner and we all know it goes great with wine! A wine tote and or trivet also is a great option.

eight - Terrariums are my kinda plant, low maintenance & look great. These work in so many rooms to an outdoor deck for a little living decor. 

nine - Someone have a new home or new car? How about a chic key chain to hang those new keys on!

The Holiday Card

I am tin the middle thirties and have yet to ever send out holiday cards, it's embarrassing. Especially when I love getting them so much. Seeing friends and families kiddos grace the cover of the card is so fun that time of year. I could easily go into my arsenal of excuses for reasons that I haven't done them like i.e. collecting the address is too time consuming {easily solved with ink invite}, when we have a child {or a dog} and have something to show people then I will start doing them, I am always past the ordering deadline, or just share the honest truth...I am just too lazy. Well this year thanks to the encouragement of my friend Amelia and my talented photog friend I think I think it's time to bite the bullet and get my butt in gear. So I have been dreaming up a few concepts to do a photo card like the one below - my husband is naturally thrilled {can you feel the sarcasm?}. I personally wish I could think of something hilarious to send out but till the perfect idea comes to mind I am leaning towards a little photo shoot I dreamt up of  having a Christmas picnic at the beach! 

What are you doing for your holiday card this year? 

image via Sugar Paper LA

gift boxes // lanterns // picnic basket // mistletoe // cable-knit pillow // leather thermos // plaid blanket // matches // beach wood fire pit // wood bowl // gilded egg corns & pine cones // faux tree // tree topper // antler roasters // candy canes