So … I’ve had the idea for this blog for some time now; have spent the last couple months on design, photography and putting it together with the goal of getting it up by February … and here I am, sitting down to type my first post!
To me, February seems like a good time to start a home design blog and I hope you’ll agree. Here in Chicago we are all hunkered down in our homes after the city’s third biggest snowstorm in history, with frigid temperatures outside. Our homes become even more important this time of year and we are motivated to nest … to make them warm and cozy, to clean out, organize and complete those “rainy/snowed-in day” projects. So if you, like me, tend to spend more time online this time of year, then hopefully this blog will be your little daily dose of sunshine … I hope it makes you feel good!
I’ll also invite my favorite fellow bloggers to do guest posts, including a 5 Things that Make Me Swoon series.
And to start out this week, I thought I’d feature some of the things that make ME swoon, one each day … hopefully they are things that make your heart skip a beat as well.
I’ll try to post as often as I can, and when inspiration strikes. Some posts may be long with lots of pictures, some short musings on something swoon-worthy that crossed my path. If you like something you see, please leave a comment! I’d love to read your questions, suggestions and ideas.
So … in this post, I thought I’d offer up the first of many “things that make me swoon.” Often when I am flipping through a design magazine, what stops me in my tracks are interesting tablescapes … thoughtful vignettes on a mantel, console table, bookshelf that give you a little glimpse into the owner’s life, loves or travels. For me they are what elevate a room from something that looks like a furniture show room to an engaging, fascinating space with personality. They can be hard to do successfully. Too many things … it looks like clutter. I love an artful mix of old and new, texture, color and height, little curiosities that conjure up a life rich with travel and art. Here are some favorites I’ve spied recently …
.. it’s a little vintage bottle I found that says “Love Potion.” 🙂
So, how can you create your own little vignette or tablescape? Here’s my recipe: mix together something old, something new, something borrowed (from another era) something blue (or another bold color), something written (books) , something photographed (black & white), a little flora, a little fauna (I love birds!). Make sure you have varying heights (use the books to elevate small objects) and varying textures.
What are some of your favorite vignettes?
Wow Amy, what a wonderful blog. Just fantastic. Congratulations on your launch.
Dad
Amy your creativity in decorating (and otherwise) is inspiring!!! I am looking forward to regularly following your blog!! Congrats!!
Wow Amy – So cool and so "you". It looks like you found the exact right project. I can't wait to read your next post. (and show it to David for ideas!). 🙂 Congrats!
Amy, I am beaming with pride! This blog is amazing. Your post is so timely because I need a little help with my new office bookshelves. When can you come over? Great job, friend! I love your sense of style.
Amazing!! You are so creative and such an inspiration. Where do you find the time? My friends will love your blog, I'm passing it on.
Thanks everyone for the amazing words of encouragement! Hope you continue to enjoy … stay tuned!
OMG!!! I knew you had it girl, when I walked in your beautiful home! This is lovely and great inspirations that I will surely pass along! So impressive!
Congratulations Amy!!! I am amazed by your talent but not surprised. You truly have a GIFT! I am so inspired by your blog. It is AMAZING!!! I'm so happy for you. Also, looking forward to your inspiration tips coming together in my new home. So excited for you my friend and neighbor.
love, Michele
Looks like you're off to a great start, Amy. I'll be back regularly to get some tips on how to spice up my home!