embrace your inner fool.

I must learn to love the fool in me - the one who feels too much, talks too much, takes too many chances, wins sometimes and loses often, lacks self-control, loves and hates, hurts and gets hurt, promises and breaks promises, laughs and cries. It alone protects me against that utterly self-controlled, masterful tyrant whom I also harbor and who would rob me of human aliveness, humility, and dignity but for my fool.

Theodore I. Rubin, MD


When I read this quote (shared by Joanna) it really resonated with me. Today and every day, I hope you are reminded to embrace your inner fool.


What is your favourite quote?



(Quote via A Cup of Joe. Photo of my un-pedicured feet in the Pacific Ocean, moments before B & I got engaged).

DIY Pantone-Inspired Place Cards

How perfect are these DIY Pantone-Inspired Place Cards in season-appropriate autumnal hues? I feel like pulling out my paints and creating place cards for my next event, right this minute. (I'm filing this one under "wish I came up with this concept").

Visit Frolic for the full tutorial.




(photos, concept, and styling by Annemarie Buckley via Frolic!)

no-carve pumpkins.

Even though carved pumpkins go with Halloween like pine trees go with Christmas, let's face it: they typically have an expiry date of 24 hours. In the days leading up to Halloween, why not have fun with the pumpkins on your door steps and tables without carving them...

I love the look of painted pumpkins. Having experimented last weekend, I can confirm that spray paint works well for even coverage and these Martha Stewart paints from Michaels (my new favourite product) come in beautiful colours and sparkly shades. (Suggestion: if you don't want the orange of the pumpkin to come through, use the Martha glitter paint as a top coat over spray paint or a satin paint).

Another option: thumb tacks. Simply put, I wish I came up with this idea. How brilliantly quick & simple.

Do you have a pumpkin yet? Have you done anything to it? Where is it in your house?



(Photos courtesy of Real Simple [1 and 2] + Style at Home).

Shorter Days + Game Nights.

One of my favourite things about autumn is that everything. slows. down.

Don’t get me wrong: I love the constant hum of the summer months and the comings + goings of celebrations and road trips. I’m simply a homebody at heart who is over the moon for a cozy night in with great company, a board game (or a well-stocked PVR), and a glass of wine or two.

I’m hoping this board inspires many evenings in. Add a few delicious appetizers and the right soundtrack and you have yourself the perfect girls’ night in or date night.


Appetizers: Pears and Camembert, Spicy Pecans, and Pesto-Bocconcini Crostini.

Soundtrack: The Civil Wars, Ellie Goulding, and Dan Mangen.


What is your favourite thing to do on autumn nights in?



(Images courtesy of Amazon, Bloomingdales, Anthropologie, and Indigo).

A Handy Tip for the Easily Distracted

Simply put: I need to do more of this.



(Video by courtesy of nowness discovered via bleubird vintage).

Autumn Street Style

cozy layers + leather tights + a messy bun + timeless neutrals + a chunky heal = perfectly fitted fall-wear




(photos courtesy of could I have that).

Happy Thanksgiving.

This weekend, Canadians give thanks. My list of gratitude seems to be growing by the minute; however, today I am extra thankful for family. I'm thankful for our friends who have become a part of our family. I'm thankful for the time we are able to spend together.

I'm also thankful for you: the readership who follow this little blog, share your thoughts, and allow me to indulge in my (often) crazy ideas.

I hope you enjoy a peaceful fall weekend full of loved ones, a good meal, and a festive beverage (or two).



(image courtesy of Rifle Paper Co. check out their holiday cards, here).

autumn is upon us.

The seasons have changed around these parts and autumn is very much upon us. The furnace has been ignited and I've pulled my sweaters, knee socks, and fleece pajamas out of hiding. In an effort to fall-ify our home, I even purchased a few pumpkins. (I know, I'm pretty festive).

I love, love, love this season.

A few thoughts on fall...

- Currently sipping on David's Tea Fall Collection (yum).
- I can't wait to bake cupcake 15 for a thanksgiving treat.
- I'm secretly loving the fact that the holidays are a'coming...
- I'm finding a groove and the perfect balance between cozy couch time and sweat it off bridal bootcamp. I'll get there (thanks J Web for being such an awesome work out/ veg out buddy).

Work Hard & Be Nice to People.

This is my new mantra.

I love it because it's straightforward + true. I especially love it because it puts the onus on me. Although I am not in control of what the world throws at me, I am in control of what I put out into this world.

It's a simple sentiment but it has put a lot into perspective for me. I hope you join me in the power of positive thought.

Wouldn't this pretty print be the perfect addition to a dressing table or entry way? It's a great way to start the day and a good reminder before leaving the house.



(letterpress print courtesy of sugar paper).

new shades of gold.

I love stumbling across new styles of jewelry, especially when they are as pretty as these variations of classic gold.

Both unique and hard to find, I've heard this style being referred to as "chocolate gold." I really like the look of it and I think either of these bronzed wrist adornments would look lovely paired with classic gold.



Rose gold is beautiful. Although it has been thought to look nicer on some skin tones than others, I find altogether pretty.




Do you wear gold and, if so, what shade? Do you mix different shades or stick to one style?




(photos courtesy of Michael Kors and Stella & Dot; Stella & Dot and bella flor).

Irene Suchocki Photography

No words are needed to accompany these gorgeous images. I would love to have any one of these blown up over my fireplace. Her work is just breathtaking.

To view more of Irene Suchocki's work, visit her shop.



(Photos courtesy of Irene Suchocki: Far Away, So Close, Breathless, and The Power of 10).

Thanksgiving Centerpieces

I can't believe it's already October and that thanksgiving is this coming weekend. In an attempt to fall-ify our home, I've compiled a selection of simple, cost effective, decorating techniques in traditional and monochromatic palettes.

First up: the "traditional" thanksgiving tablescape. You can't get more thanksgiving than a palette of red, yellow, orange, and gold. That being said, when I think about these colours I am immediately taken back to elementary school crafts and fake craft store leaves. Enter: Pinterest and its plethora of DIY ideas. Dried, real, leaves in bud vases or shot glasses? A pumpkin as a vase? A table full of Mason jar candle holders? Yes, please.


I love white pumpkins. Since discovering them several years ago, I eagerly await fall so I can adorn my house with them. Who needs to wait for Halloween, I say; let your white pumpkins celebrate thanksgiving, too!



If you're still looking for some inspiration, visit the HG TV website, Martha, and Hostess with the Mostess.

How do you decorate for thanksgiving?



photo credits:

Traditional Colour Palate: 1, 2, 3, & 4.
Neutral Colour Palate: 1 (via), 2, 3, & 4.

simple + chic baby shower.

I am smitten with this gender-neutral shower that Naomi threw for a girlfriend.

The party boasted a delicious menu, sweet decorations, and a fresh colour palette, proving - once again - that sometimes less is, indeed, more. For additional photos, visit the rockstar diaries and for the tutorial for the flower garland visit once wed.