Faceted Vase DIY

As if there was any question, I am officially in full-on holiday mode (as of November 12, to be exact). This means there are decorations up in my house (for real) and that I'm lining up my holiday craft projects in an attempt to get organized before December 1. I love the idea of incorporating items you already own into holiday installations; it's cost effective and leaves you with minimal items to store.

The modern faceted vase tutorial on Oh Happy Day is this kind of project. I think it would be a perfect centerpiece for a holiday table or mantel decoration for New Years Eve, don't you?



(tutorial + photo courtesy of Oh Happy Day - photo by Kate Nicholson).

gift idea: for your favourite crafter

In the event you prescribe to the same let's-get-organized-sooner-rather-than-later school of thought as I do and/or you want to brighten the day of your favourite crafty friend and/or you’re looking for a few cost-effective and thoughtful gift ideas, you’ll be interested in the digital craft book A Hip Handmade Holiday.  Alison + Susan have compiled 18 original holiday craft ideas with tips, instructional videos, and printables.  Buy it here.  

Thanks to Natalie (of Nat the Fat Rat) who featured the book yesterday for the great gift idea. 

(image + digital craft book courtesy of the craft pack).

gift guide: stocking stuffers for him.

Well, as previously mentioned, I had great intentions of creating a gift guide palooza; however, this year we're going with stocking stuffers (mostly $20 and under) for her + for him.

For the gentleman in your life...

1. I saw this at Chapters and laughed out loud. If I hadn't already co-ordinated the perfect gift for my little brother he'd be getting this in his stocking. There's nothing like a silly-yet-tasty treat. [coal candy, $8 at Indigo].

2. Fact: I steal Ben's socks 4 out of 5 mornings during the winter months. I'm planning on picking up a few pairs of thick wool socks for him/me. I wish I saw these earlier to order them in time for Christmas. [Camp socks, $19.50 at J. Crew].

3. I think Ben would do less complaining about my tea addiction if he tried a mug of chocolate chili chai. [Chocolate Chili Chai, $13.25 for a 100g tin at David's Tea].

4. Everyone (and some people's dogs) seem to have iPhones these days. What's more fun than having a second case to change it up from time to time. I love David Bushell graphic illustrations; don't they make great cases? [iPhone cases with David Bushell's illustrations, $39.95/ various at Uncommon].

5. The album that should be on everyone's wish list: The Black Keys, El Camino. That's all. [Album, $14.99].

6. Another gag gift that was too awesome not to include. Bathroom humour at its finest. [Matchboxes, $7.00 by dippy lulu on etsy.com].

7. On our Oregon trip last summer we learned that there are many delicious bottled root beers that we just. don't. have. here in Canada. This one was our favourite and I plan to pick up a case next time we're south of the border. [Bulldog Root Beer, various].



In case you missed it...

gift guide: stocking stuffers for her.

gift guide: stocking stuffers for her.

I had great intentions of putting together a collection of gift guides this year a la Joanna; however, I've been too busy enjoying various holiday festivities and nursing a head cold. Subsequently, what I'm offering you, my faithful blog readers, is a collection of my favourite stocking stuffers for him and her.

Ladies, first...

1. Voluspa Candles are my favourite and the holiday sent Frost Pinecone is deliciously festive. [Mini Tin Candle, $7.50 at Indigo].

2. As previously mentioned, salted caramels rule my world. This stocking stuffer is self-explanitory. [Ooh la la Salted Caramels, $20 at Indigo].

3. These little books have been popping up all over blog land and I understand why: who wouldn't love a small notebook to stash in your purse for sporadic note taking (or blog loving, in this case)? [Archie Grand for J.Crew notebook, $12 at J. Crew]

4. The last time I was at Sephora I fell in love with the wall of purse-size roll on perfumes they now offer. Brilliant and practical, pick one in her favourite sent or a new, fun, one like Kate Spade's twirl. [Twirl By Kate Spade Roll-On, $18 at Sephora].

5. Everyone should have at least one of these little pots of salve in their purse to combat chapped winter lips, add a little glow to cheeks, and moisturize dry cuticles. Best bang for your buck. [Rosebud Salve, $6 at Sephora].

6. My love for ban.do pieces grows with each addition they make to their online boutique; however, their signature sequin hearts are the simplest way of adding a little glamour to a tee or a tote. [ban.do heart, $15 at shop ban.do].

7. The Bay has played its cards right and has introduced a Top Shop in its Pacific Centre store. Lucky for everyone, they also offer pieces online. I love this crochet headband and the brilliant orangey-red colour it comes in. [TOPSHOP Carmine Crochet Cinch Headband, $18 at the Bay].

8. Mimosas and Christmas morning go together like Chocolate and Valentine's day. Why not gift her a mini bottle of your favourite champagne, sparkling wine, or prosecco to toast the season? [Freixent - Carta Nevada Brut, $4.72 at BC Liquor Stores].



What is your favourite stocking stuffer to give or receive?

Green Christmas

Nothing says "Christmas" quite like fresh boughs of pine and the smell they fill the house with. Although many of us have opted for a faux pine Christmas tree this year, there is no reason why we can't enjoy traditional holiday greenery on a smaller scale. In fact, last night I realized I had subconsciously been researching ways of doing just that (evidence can be found on my holiday pinterest board).

If you're looking for ways of adding a little green to your home this holiday, here are a few simple & cost effective options. Bonus: they're low maintenance, allowing you to enjoy green without necessarily having a green thumb.

[1.] tree seedlings in champagne flutes are a unique, sustainable, and practical favour option for a holiday party or winter wedding.

[2.] simple arrangements of white roses + pine look beautiful in small cups, jars, or vases placed throughout the house.

[3.] rescue a fallen (or pruned) bough and put it in a large jar or vase to be enjoyed for weeks.

[4.] why not give out cards that double as decor? these mini wreath holiday cards are beyond sweet.

Do you decorate with greenery?



(Images courtesy of: Plant a Memory via Little Winter Bride; Better Homes and Gardens; photo by Patrik Hagborg for Hus & Hem via emmas design blog; photo by Lisa Warninger, concept & crafting by Tokketok, floral and styling by Chelsea Fuss for 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).

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.

DIY Bracelets

The days are getting noticeably shorter and the mornings, chillier; it’s hard to deny that autumn is upon us. As soon as fall hits I get a burst of creativity and I start filling an arsenal of DIY projects for the months ahead.

This past summer I had fun crafting these hex nut bracelets (Emilie, that reminds me I still have one for you). Via Pinterest, I’ve stumbled upon a few other bracelet DIY guides that I’d like to try. What do you think?


braided hex nut bracelet. (I've mastered this one & I love how they look stacked with a couple other bracelets or bangles).


wrap bracelet. (this one looks relatively easy and it's a fun way to add a pop of colour to a neutral outfit).


macrame square knot string hex nut bracelet. (who knew hex nuts could be so versatile? honestly).


woven chain bracelet. (how to re-purpose your large link jewelery. I love it).



I love these tutorials and I think these bracelets would make sweet birthday or holiday gifts for girlfriends, not to mention the fact that they are both cost effective and easy to mail. It’s a win-win-win, if you ask me.

What activities are you filling your cozy fall evenings with? Do you get extra creative this time of year, too?




(photos 1, 2, and 4 courtesy of Honestly WTF…, photo 3 courtesy of Mini-eco all found via Pinterest).

Aquamarine Sparkle

What is more fun than minty summer nails? A manicure jazzed up with Martha Stewart glitter that's what.

I can't wait to pull out my glitter and try this. Maybe this weekend...

Happy Friday, folks.


(Photos via Cupcakes and Cashmere).

Animals Font

Confession: I get overly excited about fonts and typography.

While helping Matt + Jen with their wedding invites I spent a long time on dafont playing with and downloading various fonts. I stumbled across some beauties but this one takes.the.cake.



Alan Carr created this adorable collection of animals that I am already having too much fun with. The font is free and can be downloaded (through dafont), here.

If this wasn't enough, Liz (of Say Yes to Hoboken) has provided us with a DIY tutorial for freezer stencils (find it here)! The whale tee that she created is beyond cute; I can't wait to make onesies for my nephew.



Have fun!


(Font designed by Alan Carr).
(Screen shot + photos by Liz of Say Yes to Hoboken).

Vancouver's First Bridal Swap

I am thrilled to share the event details for this fabulous event: Vancouver's 1st Bridal Swap!

Psst... Jen, Jaime, and Sam: take note!! The swap is scheduled for Sunday February 20th from 10:30 am - 4:30 pm.

Brides to be... make sure to get their early to survey the tables for the pieces you need and meet the participating vendors. If you are a 'past bride' looking to unload the 18 cake stands or garage full of mason jars you're hanging onto, register now for a table ($50 or $100).

Presented by Vancouver's DreamGroup, the Bridal Swap is the first of its kind in our fair city. I am a huge fan of this cost-effective and environmentally-sustainable initiative; what a wonderful resource!

Halloween Décor, part two

If you have been reading this blog for a while you may remember my Halloween Mantra.

Long story short: it's not my favourite holiday. That being said, I've found myself getting into the Halloween spirit this year. Perhaps, it's due to all of the awesome Halloween décor + party supplies available.

I love how John and Sherry have added subtle + spooky touches to the existing décor in their gorgeous home. The "creepy bird" and monochromatic palette are understated and fit in perfectly. I really dig the look of the white carnations speckled with black paint.




Young House Love.

As Jordan has aptly pointed out, Martha has done it again. Martha - whom I have affectionately dubbed the "Queen of Halloween" - has a new line of treat bags and decorations that are adorable + fun. (I love the sparkly chandeliers and beverage labels).

Martha's ideas for Halloween costumes, crafts, parties, baking, and other treats are endless. Proof.


Martha Stewart Crafts via babble.

Speaking of parties... if you're gong to throw one, I don't think you could find a sweeter invitation than one from this collection by RIFLE. I LOVE the trick-or-treater!


RIFLE.


So tell me, friends. How do you celebrate Halloween? Do you throw a party? Trick or Treat with the little ones? Watch scary movies with bite sized chocolate bars? Dress up and hit the town?

So far, the Halloween décor around here consists of a single pumpkin (with more to come). Stay tuned...

Birdcage Love

I must be going through bird withdrawal as I've been hunting for pretty cages to adorn my backyard. I love the look of antique cages, in or out of doors.

Birdcages are lovely when used in wedding decor. A few of my favourite options...

Cages used in place of Chandeliers for an outdoor reception:

{Photos by Corbin Gurkin via Duet Weddings, flowers by Modern Day Design}

Cages arranged around the cake table:

{Photo by Armosa Studios}

Cages decorated with moss and blooms at the place card table:

{Photos by left:One Love Photo & right: Martha Stewart Weddings}

Ryan & Angie used cages in their bird motif to hold cards as guests arrived:



Have you ever used birdcages in decor? Wedding or otherwise.

soda bar fun

{Project Wedding}

Although I would personally select a coke or a ginger ale over one of these sweet options, I am a huge fan of this idea. I can't wait to set up my own soda bar [or ice cream soda bar] for a certain party next summer.

How fantastic + fun would a soda bar be for a rehearsal dinner, wedding or baby shower, back yard wedding, BBQ, croquet tournament, picnic, or birthday party?!

{Project Wedding}

Although I love the vintage feel of the various labels, I also adore this soda label template by Eat Drink Chic [that I found via postcards and pretties].

{Eat Drink Chic via postcards and pretties}


I always love finding vintage (or vintage style) tubs: they're perfect for ice buckets. I find this one particularly charming.

{Brooklyn Bride}


Jones Soda personalized labels are also entertaining; they provide the perfect conversation starters (you can include your own text along with your photo). I think it would be fun to put little known facts about the bride/groom or funny stories about the birthday boy, for example. They're also a darling favour or take away gift for guests. Visit their site for more ideas.

{the knot}


Now I know it's still January, but I needed a little rainbow summer fun to perk me up, mid week. I hope you don't mind.

Cheers, friends!

Cranberry Love

{Canadian Home & Country}

I love the look, the colour, the taste, and the smell of this Christmas fruit

[facts, tips and techniques listed here].

These berries [real or faux] look lovely floating in water with flowers or in vases with candles and provide a festive punch of colour to create a cheap-yet-stunning holiday centerpiece.

{L: Apartmet Therapy + R: Pottery Barn}

They also add the perfect tartness to a sweet champagne cocktail [recipe].

{Canadian House & Home}

There's nothing better then the sweet smell of cranberry: a warm and welcoming scent for the holiday season. My favourite is the Body Shop's Cranberry which comes as a scented oil or candle and is perfect for holiday parties. 

{L: Hostess with the Mostess + R: The Body Shop}

Update: 12.11.09

Vancouverites: you can enjoy the amenities of the Cranberry Spa on Robson Street. [Check out their Holiday Specials: a fabulous gift idea].

{Cranberries Spa}


What is your favourite holiday scent?

Deck your halls

Oh etsy, how I love thee.

Today's post is a collection of my favourite ornaments found on this highly addictive site. Being our first Christmas in our own place, I've found myself enthralled with Christmas decor of all kind, particularly tree décor.

These are [a few of] the ornaments I’ve “favourited” on etsy over the last month. If you pray really hard to the postal gods you may be able to order and receive them before the 25th. Otherwise, stock up for next year!

. . .

I would be lying if I said the bird-infused motif of R&A’s wedding didn’t leave a soft spot on my heart. For this reason, I am particularly fond of bird-inspired ornaments. (Angie, this set is for you. Xo).

{Clockwise from top left: my little nest ornament from pillow happy; bird ornament/sachet by moontea artwork; personalized bird ornaments by TK Designs; 2009 commemorative dove by paloma's nest; vintage bird by little edith bee; bird in flight by shelby design; and vintage music paper bird by repurposed antiques}


As a lover of weddings, I enjoy this set of “first Christmas” ornaments.

{Clockwise from top left: Amorette by debra sue; our first Christmas snowflake by aphrodite's canvas; silhouette by EclisseCreazioni; wedding cake and engagement ring cookie ornaments by sweet vanilla bean; first Christmas by SarEi; ziper heart by bogate; and custom text tile by paloma's nest}


This series of themed ornaments is particularly sweet. [I think any of the following ornaments would be a lovely gift].

{Clockwise from top left: bunch of stars by quotes and notes; vintage gold bows by sauce for the goose; 3 24k gold dipped leaves by Lu's Boutique; 2 golden acorns by stacey winters; personalized dog bones by sunshine ceramics; christmas trees by emerge design; cocktail dresses by tweedy lane; stocking by bloom and barnacle; Custom Silhouette by 'ohana by lea; and fortune cookie by yoga goat}


Although themed ornaments are adorable, there’s nothing prettier than a simple round ornament on a tree branch. I love these modern twists on the classic bauble.

{Clockwise from top left: vintage glass ornament by sauce for the goose; spun ornament by Jenny Bland; Guinea Fowl Feather Ball by maka le wakan; sequin ornaments by wicked pen; christmas baubles by olivia bossy; winter white ornament by m golden; and winter forest ornament by finch designs}


I hope you have enjoyed hanging the stockings by the chimney with care and decking your halls with boughs of holly [and other festive adornments]!

Halloween Décor

Although I am not the biggest fan of Halloween [as I have already admitted], I am not one to shy away from decorating.

Immediately confronted with memories of blow up lawn pumpkins, battery-operated witches, and things that make scary noises when you walk by them, I went searching for décor-inspiration that did not evoke what I will affectionately call “the cringe factor.”

An addendum: I understand that Halloween is for children, scaring people, and orange-and-black everything. That being said, my style mantra prevents my acceptance of the cheese-aspect of this holiday. Therefore, please find the following collection of my favorite [cost-effective] ideas for
Halloween-inspired décor:



I have decided I love white pumpkins - I've seen them everywhere: magazines, online... however, I'm not sure where to find some of my own. [I'm trying the local garden centre and the Home Show this weekend - fingers crossed]. These minis [courtesy of Canadian House & Home] have been carved with small drill bits and other kitchen utensils, giving them unique rustic charm. [I've also seen larger versions with a similar design hollowed out by the bottom instead of the top and placed - safely - over candles for a lantern effect].



What would we do without Eddie Ross' fantastic tutorials on how to create amazing decorations out of simple and reasonably-priced items? This feather wreath is no exception. Take several boas, some pins, a foam wreath, a spool of thick ribbon, and voila! Simple, spooky, front door decor.



I enjoy bringing natural elements indoors, especially when paired with traditionally interior décor items like this vase: the result is fresh and unique. Whether spray painted [like the version included here] or naturally rustic, the options for twigs, sticks, or branches are endless. I also love the use of lichen for a pop of unconventional colour in Martha's example.



This photo requires no explanation, just a recipe [thank you HWTM]. I desperately want one of these sparkly skulls!

While I'm on the Halloween Train...

• I will be trying this pumpkin seed recipe after carving jack o'lanterns


• I can't want to see how many kids trick-or-treat at my door in this costume


• A way to use the box of Okanagan apples without having to bake: candy apples!


• I've been spending all my free time on etsy. It's hard to tear myself away with so many awesome items like this adorable Halloween banner.

How do you celebrate/decorate Halloween?