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

December 13th, 2013 No Comments

Classic Mimosas for Christmas Brunch

I’m always gathering punch recipes or special cocktail recipes for the holidays but I forget about what to serve for Christmas brunch sometimes. A classic mimosa is a perfect celebratory drink for Christmas day. Usually two-thirds champagne and one-third orange juice, you can really do any combination that suits your taste. Blood Orange juice can be used (like you see above), Prosecco can be substituted for champagne and a dash of Triple Sec can be added if you wish. Garnish with a strawberry slice, orange slice or even a mint leaf. Set up a self-serve bar if you are having … Read more

December 12th, 2013 No Comments

Hableland is here! A new rug line by the sister team of Hable Construction

I’m a big fan of Hable Construction and my friends behind the company, sisters Susan and Katharine (You might recognize the name from Garnett Hill where their holiday felt stockings and rugs have been featured for several years).  They have the most amazing prints, in fabrics, home goods, small case goods etc. and now they have partnered with Capel Rugs to introduce Hableland. They just introduced the line at the High Point Furniture Market and the rugs are available now. I’m so excited for this new collection, I think the “Stars” is one of my favorites. -Lynn Butler Beling … Read more