Tips On Writing Thank You Notes, And A Look At Stationery

I feel like the handwritten note is really becoming a lost art.  I, for one, love to give and get handwritten mail, don't you?  And nothing does a better job of expressing your gratitude for a gift or a particular kindness than taking the time to compose a note to the gift giver.  Not to mention the fact that I absolutely love pretty stationery.  Personalized papers, monogrammed cards, lovely folded notes, I love them all.  I could just have drawers full!

Tips for Writing Thank You Notes

• Timeliness is appreciated.  Try to get to your Thank You Note out as quickly as possible.
• If you are late in sending it out, don't despair, and also don't simply give up on it.  A late note is better than no note at all.  Just be sure to apologize for your tardiness in the first few lines of the note.  
•  Begin with a greeting.  Dear Aunt Lauren...  Be sure to mention everyone who deserves credit for the gift or act which you are mentioning.
• Express your gratitude.  Exaggeration is not needed.  Simply say Thank you for...and mention the gift or act for which you are thankful.  In cases where I am writing a note of thanks for a gift that was given during a party or event, I first like to express thanks to the giver for attending said function.  It is always nice to know that your presence was just as appreciated as your presents.  
• Mention ways in which you will use the gift, or how it will impact your life.  The scented candle smells lovely and is such a pretty addition to my bedside table...
• In situations where the gift was money or a check, there is no need to mention specific sums.  Simply thank the giver for the generosity of their gift, and be sure to mention how you plan to use it.  
• I always like to then make a mention of regards for the future.  It was so nice to see you, I look forward to seeing you again at Granddad's Birthday Party...
• And then mention an additional thanks.  Thanks again...
• Use a proper closure.  Sincerely,... Best Regards,...With Love,...
• Remember, thank you notes are not just appropriate for tangible gifts, but for anytime that someone does a particularly special act of kindness for you.  
• Take your time to write legibly (this one is particularly hard for me!) but be sure the note is handwritten!
• Keep in mind that someone took the time to purchase the gift for you, and five minutes spent writing a thank you note will go a long way to express your gratitude.  

Some lovely stationery to get you started...

1.   //   2.    //   3.

4.  //    5.  //     6. 

Hollywood Inspired Living Room

Today I was checking my regular blog roll, and, as usual I looked in on Cupcakes and Cashmere.  Today she is featuring a link to a Lonny.com post about the beautiful interiors of Nancy Meyers Movies.  Think, Somethings Got to Give, The Holiday, It's Complicated.  These movies all feature home interiors worth drooling over.  Reportedly, Ms. Meyers as director of these films, has quite a bit of influence in the look of these movie-model sets.  With those images fresh in my mind as inspiration, I decided to create my own version of a Nancy Meyers themed living room.

Here is the Living Room Set from Somethings Got To Give

Image Source

And here is my version:

Carlisle Sofa // Rugby Stripe Rug // Upholstered Chair and Ottoman // Paint : SW Window Pane //

Silver Base Lamp // Wood Pedestal Side Table // Wood Frame Arm Chair // Upholstered Ottoman //

Silver Finish Drink Table // Console Table // Pillows // Ginger Jar

 

Fun Finds - Desk Accessories

Silver Desk Set //Turquoise Enamel Clock // Mercury Glass Gazing Balls // Pebbled Leather Desk Set

Colorful Storage Boxes //  Pom Pom Pushpins

Brass Pencil Holder //  Red Leather Heart Paperweight // Shaped Paper Clips 

Anchor Notecards // Gold Wire Magazine Holder // Gold Stapler // 

The "Write" Idea - Incorporating Writing Desks Into Your Design

One of my favorite things to do in a Master Bedroom design is to incorporate a writing desk.  These are such lovely, and often feminine pieces of furniture.  Utilizing a writing desk with a lovely chair in place of a night chest or table one on side of the bed provides certain unexpected interest in a bedroom, and keeps things from looking too matchy-matchy.  And as a bonus, they are useful pieces as well.

Writing desks are also great for providing "office area" in small spaces where a full size desk would be too heavy (visually) and where space is at a premium.  

Chrome Desk with Glass Top //  Mirrored Desk // French Country Desk

West Indies Desk // Mixed Material Desk // Cream Painted Desk

Nordstrom Distractions

I had meant to have a completely different post done for today, but I managed to get completely distracted by looking at the Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale.  So, I decided to just go with it, and give you some of my favorite picks from the sale.

Vince Camuto // Kate Spade Sunglasses // Maxi Dress  // Maxi Skirt //

Michael Kors Bracelet // Topshop Necklace // Crystal Collar Necklace // Sheer Stripe Top

Beach Bag Essentials

Summer is almost here.  We made our first official beach outing over this past weekend, and I am so ready for that to become a regular event.  Here are a few beach favorites of mine.  Including my two favorite sunscreens.   I feel like I have tried every sunscreen possible, and the La Roche Posay Anthelios Sunscreen is the only one I have found that is actually kind to my sensitive face and also keeps it protected.

Pom Pom Tote/  Sunglasses/  Starfish Beach Towel/ Beach Defense Sunscreen/

La Roche Posay Sunscreen/  Wide Brim Hat/  Flip Flops

More beach bags to love.

1./    2./    3./     4./    5./    6.

Updating the Laundry Room

In yesterday's post I presented several dream laundry rooms.  Any one of those rooms featured would certainly make laundry a bit less arduous.  However, I live in reality, and in reality, my laundry room is not even close to any of those.  In case yours isn't either, here are some tips for livening up your laundry room.

• Be brave! A small space such as a laundry room is the perfect place to use wallpaper.  I know that often times wallpaper can seem like a big commitment, but when you apply it in small rooms it has such a huge impact without a huge risk.  Take a look at this space:

Traditional Laundry Room by Philadelphia Interior Designers & Decorators Caitlin Wilson

Even Target now has wallpaper selections.  One of my favorites from their collection has some similarity to the paper in the photo above. 

wallpaper

• Never underestimate the impact of changing a light fixture.  Especially in a small space such as a laundry room, it will make a huge difference.  So pull out that florescent light box and replace it with a lovely pendant lamp or small chandelier.  
• Add a small area rug to the room.  Be sure it does not overwhelm the space by taking up the entire floor, but choose a rug that is more than just a small mat.  I am a big fan of using an indoor/outdoor rug in the laundry room.  They are so durable and can sustain muddy shoes and detergent spills. 
• If your room does not have cabinetry, opt for open shelving on the walls to give you extra storage space.  Sturdy, deep shelves will be your best bet.
• Use a decorative bin or basket to hold your laundry essentials, such as stain remover and dryer sheets.  This is especially useful if you are using open shelves.  With shelves, you want to use baskets or bins to corral all the clutter and keep your shelves looking neat. 
• Keep a large basket or bin handy to toss in all those random socks and dishtowels.  This will keep them out of the way  and off of the counter or top of the washer until you have a chance to wash that load.
• Add some fun accessories.  Artwork, a cool rolling wire hamper, a glass canister to hold your powder detergent...all of these things will bring some fun and personality to your space.  

And if I put it all together it looks like this:

Wallpaper/  Whirlpool Duet Washer and Dryer/  Wall Shelves

Wire Hamper/ Pendant Lamp/ Basket with Chalkboard label/ Glass Jar

Inspiration for Monday - Laundry Rooms

Doing the laundry is one of my least favorite household chores.  That feeling is just made worse by the fact that it is never ending.  I once heard someone point out that everyday a family of 4 is wearing a full load of  laundry.  Every single day.  That thought alone makes me want to run and hide from my laundry room.  So I thought that for all those of you, who like me, dread the never ending process of laundry, maybe a beautiful space in which to do the laundry would make it just a little less terrible.  Maybe.

Here are a few lovely laundry rooms to daydream about.

Traditional Laundry Room by Birmingham Media & Bloggers Southern Living

Transitional Laundry Room by Grand Rapids General Contractors Scott Christopher Homes/Surpass Renovations

Traditional Laundry Room by Los Angeles Interior Designers & Decorators Abbott Moon

Traditional Laundry Room by New Canaan Architects & Designers Brooks and Falotico Associates, Inc.

Transitional Laundry Room by Alachua Cabinets & Cabinetry Busby Cabinets

Design Love - Baker Furniture

I have a love affair with Baker Furniture.  Baker is the epitome of class and elegance in the world of furnishings.  They are modern, yet timeless.  Every piece is a picture of beauty.  All of this perfection means Baker Furniture pieces are an investment.  With that in mind, and also the fact that I have two small children and two large dogs,  a room full of Baker is not on the horizon for me anytime soon.  But a girl can daydream...

Here are some of my favorite pieces.

Thomas Pheasant Moderne Platform Bed / Barbara Barry Glass Front Cabinet

Lacquer Console Table/ Barbara Barry Signature Lounge Chair

Jacques Garcia Atrium Chair / Laura Kirar Neue Sofa

Michael Smith Glebe Bedside Chest / Thomas Pheasant Paris Writing Table

You can find all these pieces and more at the Baker Furniture website.  Furnishings can be purchased through your local authorized Baker Furniture dealer.

From Design to Fashion

This week I have spent quite a bit of time looking for blue and white porcelain.  These searches also led me to come across some beautiful porcelain print clothing.   So, I thought I would put together an outfit with one of the pieces that really caught my eye.

Sabine Maxi Dress/  Kendra Scott Earrings/  Hammered Gold Cuff Bracelet

Stacked Rings/  Wedge Sandals/  Metallic Gold Tote

Touches of Blue and White

The lamps I featured in yesterday's post had me thinking about blue and white porcelain accents.  While these decor items are typically traditional, they can be used as an accent in an array of different styles, from traditional, to transitional, to Shabby Chic.  Just remember to use them sparingly.  A little goes a long way.

Medium Ginger Jar/ Lamp/ Bowl

Artwork/ Orchid Arrangement/ Large Ginger Jar

See it in action...

Contemporary Entry by Brooklyn Photographers Rikki Snyder

Contemporary Bedroom by Danville Interior Designers & Decorators Nina Jizhar

Traditional Staircase by Chicago Architects & Designers Northworks Architects and Planners

Mediterranean Living Room by Atlanta Architects & Designers Summerour Architects

Make An Entrance

The foyer, or entryway of your home, is the first thing that people see when they enter your house.  This area really sets the mood for your entire home.  When I was in the process of designing and building my current home, I was so excited to have a defined foyer.  We designed it so that it is an open area that leads to the Living Room on the left, the Dining Room on the right, and forward to the Family Room.  A very classically traditional layout.  I was so excited about this space because I saw it as mine, a mess free zone that should always stay clean because my children would have no cause to play in there.  Sounds reasonable, right? Well, the kids really have no interest in the space, but it has become the dog's favorite place to hang out. And he sheds.  He sheds like no short-haired dog I have ever seen before(good thing I love him dearly). Oh well.  As they say, best laid plans...

Anyhow, before I go get out the vacuum again, here are a couple of foyer idea boards.

Botanical Art Prints/  Blue and White Lamps/ Console Table/ Decorative Boxes

Ashford Lamp/  Beaded Frame Mirror/ Grand Tomes Books/
Black Drawer Chest/  Pendant Clock/ Paint Color

Inspiration for Monday

I hope that everyone had a wonderful day yesterday.  Today's inspiration photos are all of foyers and entryways.  Enjoy!

Traditional Entry by

Beach Style Entry by Marblehead Interior Designers & Decorators Molly Frey Design

Traditional Entry by Richmond Architects & Designers Beyond Ordinary Boundaries Architecture

Traditional Entry by Charleston Interior Designers & Decorators Haute Design

Traditional Entry by Atlanta Architects & Designers Historical Concepts

Farmhouse Entry by West Chester Architects & Designers Archer & Buchanan Architecture, Ltd.

Traditional Entry by Atlanta Interior Designers & Decorators Brian Watford ID


Happy Monday!

Fun Finds for Friday - Anthropologie

Happy Friday! Anthropologie is a great store to find unique looking decor for your home.  It is perfect to pepper in a few interesting pieces in your home to showcase your individual style.  I just wanted to share a few fun new things I found at Anthropologie.  Enjoy!

Lotus Dinner Plates

Resplendent Serving Set

The Chemist's Jar

Jardin Des Plantes Footed Bowl

Gilded Borders Jewelry Box

Landmark Ring Dish

Costilla Pillow

Glimmer Wrapped Glasses

Dreamy Master Bedroom

I have loved the art piece "Storm Over the Marsh" by James McLaughlin for a long time.  Unfortunately, right now there is no where in my house I can fit it in.  So instead, I have been daydreaming of a beautiful Master Bedroom where it would fit in perfectly.  Soothing blue-gray walls, a luxurious linen upholstered headboard, fluffy white bedding, antiqued mirror accents, and a chaise to lie on and read a fantastic book. Sounds lovely, doesn't it?

/White Bedding/ Antique Mirror Lamp from Hobby Lobby / Artwork/  Armoire/

Sherwin Williams Paint Color SW7613 Aqua-Sphere

/Chaise/ Bedside Chest/ Linen Upholstered Headboard

Crush on Blush

I am really loving the color Blush lately.  This pale pink is so lovely and feminine, and so popular right now.  I really love it combined with white, tan, and gold.  So fresh and clean feeling!

/Flutter Sleeve Dress/

/D'Orsay Flats/

/Maxi Dress/

/Statement Necklace/

/Purse/

Problem Solvers - Skirted Tables

I am a firm believer that skirted tables are far too neglected in the design world.  To me, skirted tables are under appreciated pieces of furniture.  Why? Because they are so versatile, elegant, and most importantly, inexpensive.

A skirted table is a great way to bring a feminine touch to a Master Bedroom as the side table for "her" side of the bed.  Round skirted tables are great for smaller rooms where you really need to squeeze a table into a corner next to a sofa or chair, but you don't want it to feel squeezed in.  Conversely, if you have a larger room and you need a larger table to fill up a big empty corner, a skirted table is a great solution. And did I mention the fantastic hidden storage possibilities?   Also, not ready to invest a ton of money on an expensive dining room table, but you still want your room to look great in the interim?  A larger skirted table is just the solution for the time being.  With the right fabric choice, it will be elegant enough for your dining room.  Then when you get around to buying the dining table of your dreams, you can fold up your table, store it away, and bring it out when you need extra seating for a dinner party.  Two problems solved at once!

Fringed Burlap Tablecloth

To achieve the look, just be sure your tablecloth grazes the floor.  You can also dress it up a bit more with a glass topper, or give it a little glamour with an antiqued mirror topper.  The antiqued mirror topper is especially lovely in a bedroom.

So you might be wondering, "what size tablecloth do I need?"  This should help:

A 72" tablecloth fits a 24" diameter table that is 24" tall.

A 84" tablecloth fits a 24" diameter table that is 30" tall.

A 90" tablecloth fits a 30" diameter table that is 30" tall.

A 96" tablecloth fits a 36" diameter table that is 30" tall.

A 108" tablecloth fits a 48" diameter table that is 30" tall.

Skirted Dining Table

Ballard Designs has a great variety of options for table sizes.  They call it their Terrific Table, and you can view that here.  And tons of options for tablecloths here.

Here is an example of a skirted table being used in a Living Room:

Source

Making a statement in the foyer:

Source

Some lovely square skirted tables on either side of the bed:

Source

Thanks for reading!

Inspiration for Monday - Bathrooms

Happy Monday - Here are some lovely bathrooms to inspire you today.

Traditional Bathroom by Minneapolis Interior Designers & Decorators RLH Studio

Traditional Bathroom by Philadelphia General Contractors Hanson General Contracting, Inc.

Traditional Bathroom by Boise Interior Designers & Decorators Judith Balis Interiors

Traditional Powder Room by Chicago Interior Designers & Decorators Tom Stringer Design Partners

Eclectic Bathroom by Chicago Architects & Designers Summer Thornton Design, Inc

Thanks for reading!

Kids Rooms In Progress - Take 2

Yesterday we looked at some options for decorating Big Sister's room at "A's" house.  Today I am going to present some ideas for Little Sister's room.  "A" and I had talked about a few different ideas regarding Little Sister's room.  We had discussed decorating the room in a shabby chic style, and I had also put forth the idea of a Parisian theme to the room.  Themed rooms are usually not in my repertoire, but sometimes for kids rooms I will make an exception.  Especially if it more hints at a theme rather than screams it.

And so here are the idea boards for Little Sister's Room,

Vintage Look Pillow

Ruched Duvet

Small Dress Form

Ruffled Drapery Panels

Parisian Watercolor Print

Open Frames from Hobby Lobby

Victorian Chalkboard

Paris Print Storage Bin from Lowes

Paris Chair Cushion

Wire Eiffel Tower Figures

One of my favorite Shakespeare Quotes

Needlepoint Paris Pillow

A little fun wall hanging for the bathroom

Bird Bath Accessories

Framed Tin Wall Art from Hobby Lobby

And whether Parisian or simply shabby chic, the Little Sister definitely must have a chandelier.  I found this cutie 

 Chandelier - $175

We selected this color for the walls, Sherwin Williams SW6309 Charming Pink

(can I just say that this swatch does not do this color any justice, it is simply lovely)

Happy Friday!  

Questions, comments and side notes are always welcome!