Archive for December, 2013

December 31st, 2013 No Comments

Crisp White with Navy for New Years Celebrations

Whether you celebrate on the eve of New Years or on New Years Day, white flowers are always a favorite of mine for table settings. Like a clean slate, white symbolizes a fresh start to the new year. Adding in crisp Navy in seating cards or menu cards adds a little depth and masculinity. Another beautiful option is to stay with the deep reds and burgundies of the holidays. You can tone down the all-red holiday look by using neutral or flax colored linens. To elevate a buffet, place labeled cards in front of food dishes. You might have fun … Read more

December 30th, 2013 No Comments

Color Palette: Blues and Neutrals in 2014

As we look ahead to 2014 this week, as far as color predictions, Pantone’s color of the year is “Radiant Orchid” while Benjamin Moore shows us the “New Neutrals” in soft shades of blues, violets, grays, tans and even pale peach- a bit similar to this inspiration photo above. My favorite color is blue but taking a cue from this photograph, folding in neutrals like gray and a creamy tan really seem to elevate it to a more sophisticated and very usable color palette when designing a home. The darkest color is wonderful for lower kitchen cabinets, bathroom … Read more

December 26th, 2013 No Comments

3 savvy ways to preserve precious photos, by photographer Laura Billingham

The holidays are a time we capture so many photos and videos of our loved ones. Then, at least for me, I tend to put organizing them and securing them on the back burner on my “to do” list. So I’ve asked professional photographer, Laura Billingham to share her advice for preserving photos. Thank you Laura for all this wonderful advice and links to great products to help us all. -Lynn Butler Beling 3 Savvy Ways To Preserve Photos by Laura Billingham 1. Scan it It’s a little sacrilegious coming from a former film lover, but I actually feel … Read more

December 25th, 2013 No Comments

Merry Christmas

December 23rd, 2013 No Comments

Beauty in South Carolina

I was in awe of the architectural detail of this Unitarian Church in Charleston, South Carolina, so I thought I would share it with everyone today as a nice reprieve from the hustle and bustle. Founded in 1772 it’s one of the oldest in the south.

December 20th, 2013 No Comments

Candy Cane Cosmos

Most everyone loves a Cosmopolitan cocktail. The cranberry juice makes it red, perfect for a holiday party. But instead of garnishing it with lime or lemon rind, wet the rim with sugar and crushed candy canes then hang a miniature candy cane on the martini glass. A classic cosmopolitan ingredients: 1/2 ounce Contreau Orange Liqueur 1 ounce Vodka 1/2 ounce lime juice 1/2 ounce cranberry juice Cheers!

December 19th, 2013 No Comments

Decorate with your heart, you might be surprised with the outcome

If you love a color, sometimes you just have to go for it when you are decorating. Once you have selected a color palette it’s fun to start selecting things for your room because the choices are narrowed down for you.  Maine Cottage is a great resource, they have furniture and fabric in so many colors. They have a bed similar to this bed in the photo too. If you aren’t finding what you want at stores visit your local fabric store for fabrics you love to make into drapes and pillows. If you can’t sew, check the posts at … Read more

December 18th, 2013 No Comments

A red color palette for weddings and holiday celebrations

I think most of us correlate red with love and romance. So many brides chose red as their wedding color palette. And of course usually Christmas and Valentine decorations also use red as the main color. So we’ve compiled some inspiration for you today that you might be able to use this coming week or into the New Year. Above, Anemones are a gorgeous flower for bouquets and centerpieces. But if you are overwhelmed with too many choices remember that you can never go wrong with a classic bouquet or centerpiece of gorgeous red roses. Desserts are a great way to … Read more

December 17th, 2013 No Comments

sugared cranberries and brie appetizer bites

Cranberries can be used so many different ways for the holidays and this recipe for sugared cranberries and brie bites is perfect for a holiday party or just as appetizers for your own family. Be sure to plan a bit ahead for this one as you should soak the cranberries over night. Here is the recipe link from Yummy Mummy Kitchen and if you are still looking for a gift for someone, especially if they have kids, there is a book of the same name full of wonderful healthy recipes for families available on Amazon.

December 16th, 2013 No Comments

this week’s color palette: shades of red

Red is in the forefront of my mind with Christmas right around the corner. Here are Benjamin Moore’s picks for shades of red paint. And although I like red with deep forest green for a classic Christmas palette, I love red with a neutral tan, like in this berry wreath with burlap ribbon. If you are hesitant to paint a room red, because let’s face it, that’s a big commitment of color, why not paint your room a neutral tan (like Benjamin Moore’s Bleeker Beige HC-80) and let your accessories be the pop of red. Or try painting your front … Read more