Simple Spruce-Ups

Happy Morning Pretties!

I hope that everyone had an enjoyable weekend.  A day or two of rest is sometimes just what our minds and bodies are craving.  All we need is some relaxing time with friends, a quality conversation with a loved one, or maybe just a lazy afternoon on the porch swing listening to the storm roll in (me yesterday). After a peaceful Sunday, I woke up early to the sun shining this morning, ready to take on the week! Who's with me?

With two cups of coffee already down the hatch, I've caught the "Spruce up bug."  I'm looking for ways to improve little spaces around the crib (while trying to make the most of the space we share). Clutter gets me down and I truly believe that "Less is Almost Always More".

Today's post is about spiffing up the simplicities in your home and taking pride in your space. It is a true gift to be able to make the most of what you have, and when you throw in a dash of design and organization, an everyday area can bring you a sense of joy.  Here are a few ways to style up and smarten up your space.

Color coordinate your closet! It's simple but will make all the difference.

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Jewelry: Organize with decor

Vintage frame with lace and white painted branch

          

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Some bare wall space in your laundry room, kitchen or office:  

These hanging folders will help organize all those bills/magazines/coupons/invitations that pile up on your counter top or kitchen table.

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Linen Closet:  

Adding dividers, racks on the back of the door and rolling towels can maximize your space and help you STAY organized. Baskets are good too!

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Closet Home Office:
What a brilliant way to make the most of your extra closet? I'm loving this!
The best part...you can shut the doors.

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Work Desk:
Simple and organized. I love when there is a place for everything!
Check out the purse and key chain hook on the side. 

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Small Patio:
Make the most of this little nook by giving it a pop of color and cushion.
The perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee or maybe light some candles and share a glass of wine in the evening with your honey.

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Garden Fence: 

If your yard space is limited, leaving little room for vegetation, then plant some flowers along your fence. As they grow they will cling to the fence and add some charm.

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Happy Week!

Love, T

Harvest Moon

Hi Pretties!

I know, I know!  It's still July and bloody hot.  I can't sleep at night unless both fans are on full blast, so this may sound nutty...  But why do I have my YANKEE Cinnamon Stick candle lit? Why am I suddenly craving a Carmel Apple latte and is it normal to be searching for a hypothetical 1st day of school outfit?

BTW- I'm thinking along these lines (think the senior boys will like?)

Okay, do you get it? I'm stinkin' excited and ready for Fall! Maybe it's because us wedding folk exist a few seasons ahead of the pedestrian life.  And right now, I am daydreaming of crunching leaves, pumpkin pie, hot cider and riding boots!  Oh, and you better believe James Taylor, Neil Young and John Denver shower time recordings are in session for this girl.

The truth is the harvest season is right around the corner and I have a soft gushy spot for Fall weddings! The palettes, the textures, the crisp in the air... I love every bit of it.

Here are some of my favorite floral designs for Fall:

LAVENDER CUSTARD

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WHEAT AND RYE

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ICED RASPBERRY SORBET

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THE TRADITIONAL

 -with a side of Tabasco Sauce to spice it up ;)

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TOASTED PLUM

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VINTAGE DUST

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Calling all October, November, December brides! Check out VIOLET CHARLESTON and contact me if you or a friend are looking for some flower love or coordination for your big day. 

Here's to a smashing rest of your Thursday and a fun-filled weekend.

Cheers!!!

~ Blackberry Mint Margarita ~

For recipe click Here

Love, T

(approved and supported, but not condoned by Dee Ruel - she likes it "sunny, salty and summer all year long")

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Lemon Drops

Top of the Mornin' Pretties!

Monday, Monday, Monday... kind of a drag. But it doesn't have to be! My wish for us all is that today is the kickoff to a fresh productive week. This summer heat is getting to me. It's hot and I'm thirsty, so let's jump-start into the workday with a LEMON ZING!

Check out these stunning sun glazed images from a real life engagement session focused around an old school lemonade stand. I stumbled upon these images over the weekend and after cleaning up my own drool and trying to braid my hair (didn't come close), I became obsessed with all of the vibrant yellows and just couldn't help but share!

What a great idea to center a photo shoot around a fruit, or better yet a color!  The couple's natural chemistry shines through as they share lemonade, yellow lollipops, lemon cupcakes, a balloon bouquet, and tons of yummy kisses. Simply precious.

See more photos from this juicy engagement shoot here.

Let's one up these love birds and spice things up ourselves!
Maybe it's time for you to put on your crazy pants and jazz up your lemonade with something creative?

http://ohthelovelythings.blogspot.com/2012/03/diy-lemonade-8-ways-to-pimp-it.html

I know you saw those Lemon Heads in the engagement photos above and I bet your sweet tooth is aching for a handful. Who doesn't love a box of good old fashion Lemon Heads? My husband said it best "You just can't copy the Lemon Head" (while forcing down a box of Cherry Heads) - gross.

I found these invites that are super quirky/fun! What a nice little treat! Yes, I will come to your baby shower. Will there be more Lemon Heads when I get there? Classing these invites up by presenting them in these perfect little boxes delivers the entire package with just the right touch. Way to nail it! 

http://ohhappyday.com/2010/04/best-of-oh-happy-day-lemonhead-invitations/

Have a wonderful day, or as a good friend says "Have the day you will have!"

Love, T

When life gives you lemons, make orange juice and let the world wonder how you did it. - Unknown

Paper Cuts

Good Morning Pretties!

Wipe the sleep from those big beautiful eyes, pour yourself a strong cup of Joseph and buckle up for just 3 minutes of delectable delight before you get your Thursday up and running. 

My name is Trish Egan and I have recently started working for the beautiful and talented Dee Ruel (jewelry and paper extraordinaire).

Since moving to Charleston 3 years ago from the Midwest, I have worked a plethora of jobs that all share one major connection. They keep me surrounded by some of life's prettiest things! I have planned gorgeous weddings, sold couture gowns to some of Charleston's knockout brides, assisted with breathtaking Southern photo shoots, and most recently have entered into this eclectic world of paper and jewels! Phew... Don't you agree? Fun stuff? Oh, I forgot to mention... I have this little crush on flowers (don't tell my husband). Yep, that's right, I have a thing for flowers and enjoy designing them for anyone who will enjoy them. I am currently working on tapping into the wedding market here in Charleston.

Before I jump into today's post, I just want to thank Dee for having me. I am more than thrilled to be a small part of her big world. I hope that you all enjoy my bi-weekly posts and the start of what I am sure will be a fabulous relationship. 

My goal for this blog: You know that feeling you get when you see something that intrigues you? A cartoon-like sparkle flashes in your eye, the right side of your brain gets all riled up and a smile spreads across your face? That is my goal. Whether it is a retro bib necklace, a Christmas card, quickie ab workout or patterned pillow, I want it to bring you a thought, a smile and hopefully inspire something good in your soul. 

FOR TODAY: Handmade Paper Flowers

Beautiful. But these have to be pretty difficult to make right? 

WRONG...They sure don't look it, but these flowers are a cinch. 

Learn how to create these gorgeous stems right here.

Mix a few paper blooms with some freshies and save big on keeping your kitchen table or desktop looking vibrant with color.

http://www.stylemepretty.com/gallery/photo/158200

Write a short message on a leaf. 

Perfect to use for place settings, invitations or Thank You notes

http://www.designcrushblog.com/2012/01/30/paper-flowers/

Floral Rosette Garland!!! 

You can purchase this garland right here on Etsy.

Check back on Monday morning for more!

Love, T

I must create a system or be enslaved by another mans; I will not reason and compare: my business is to create. -William Blake