Tuesday, 15 January 2019
Before - 90s Builder Ensuite Bathroom
To give you an idea of where we were starting from, here are the photos from the original listing. The shower felt like a submarine closet, the pedestal sink offered zero storage, and the corner tub layout took up valuable space.
The Plan - Classic Transitional Ensuite Oasis
On our wish list structurally for our master bathroom were three things: a double sink vanity with plenty of storage, a larger glass shower to open and brighten up the space, and a free standing tub. I love the fresh and clean feeling of bright white bathrooms, but knew I wanted to keep it from looking sterile or plain so I made some bolder tile choices to add some interest to the design. Here is what we landed on for our ensuite plan:
Tuesday, 8 January 2019
Embellishment
A general pattern I see to most of the trends being touted in publications and by companies and industry professionals is a shift from more of the minimal aesthetic of late to a more bold and unique styles. While I love a classic simple design, I've always been a huge fan of the craftsmanship and character of historic homes. Small details like drawer pulls and moulding can add so much interest and personality without having to break the bank!
Playing With Colour
Soft tone on tones are super dreamy, but I've been seeing a lot more contrast in colour palettes for this year. Dark moody walls, colourful kitchen cabinets, bright sofas, mixed metal fixtures, I'm here for it. While I'm not quite ready to paint an entire room navy (though I've been tempted) we've been slowly incorporating more rich tones in our home with some bold coloured accent furniture pieces, and accessories like pillows and artwork. Playing with contrast in metals for hardware and lighting I think is a simple but high impact touch to add to a room. We've gone that route with our bathroom designs (see our master bathroom plans here) and are loving the look!
Back To Nature
Wood, stone, jute, the trend of incorporating the beauty of natural materials is still going strong this year, and I think it makes for a perfect compliment to some of the more bold trends of 2019. Natural elements help to bring life to a space and keep it looking fresh and organic. The visual contrast and texture gives me all the homey feels.
What do you think of these 2019 home decor trends? Are you making any changes in your home this year?
Monday, 17 December 2018
We are officially 7 sleeps away from Christmas Eve, and I feel like this season always seems to fly by in the blink of an eye. During this time of the year we often feel a strong call to give back to our communities, but there is so much need it can seem overwhelming. I promise you, giving back doesn't have to take a lot of time or money! Here are 6 easy ways you can give back this holiday season (and beyond!).
This is one that I feel particularly called to in this season of life. A home is a gift that can easily be shared with others! Simply invite people over - friends, family, neighbours, people who are away from their home and may not have anyone to share the holidays with this year. It doesn't have to be a huge undertaking or a fancy meal. This year we are hosting a drop in party after Christmas and inviting our neighbours to come by, in hopes that we can learn more about the people we are living with and connect with our community.
Whether it is time with someone you know or someone you don't, the gift of quality time is so precious. In your own circle you could arrange a coffee, lunch or even just a phone call with someone you want to show love to and connect with. In your community, check out local organizations on social media and see if they are hosting events/reach out to see if they could use a hand with serving, wrapping, or even just visiting with people who need it most.
This may seem like an obvious choice, but as the year closes out many organizations are in the final stages of planning and budgeting what they can accomplish in the upcoming year. If there is an organization or a cause close to your heart, be generous with an end of year gift that allows them to continue and grow in doing great work that you may physically not be able to assist with.
Again, this one may be a no brainer but physical gifts can be a huge blessing. This year our church collected pyjamas and meal cards for a local center for psychological care. Donate canned goods to local food banks. Buy or bake some holiday treats and take them to your neighbours or local businesses. Sort through your family's closets and donate items that no longer serve you, but could be a blessing to someone else!
This is something that could easily be overlooked, but I have recently learned how much it can impact someone else's day. Take time to pray for someone, write them a personal letter, card or even a text message letting them know you are thinking about them or praying for them. The holidays can be a joyful, busy season but also a sad, stressful season. Ask your friends and family if they have prayer requests (leave a comment or send me a message if you need a prayer warrior yourself!) or take a look through the comments on this video. If you are an active consumer of content online, take the time to send your favourite content creators gratitude and encouragement for the work that they do.
I hope these have sparked some ideas for simple ways you can give back to your local community. How do you like to give during the holidays? Share what you're doing this year in the comments, I'd love to get inspired!
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Give your home
This is one that I feel particularly called to in this season of life. A home is a gift that can easily be shared with others! Simply invite people over - friends, family, neighbours, people who are away from their home and may not have anyone to share the holidays with this year. It doesn't have to be a huge undertaking or a fancy meal. This year we are hosting a drop in party after Christmas and inviting our neighbours to come by, in hopes that we can learn more about the people we are living with and connect with our community.
Give time
Whether it is time with someone you know or someone you don't, the gift of quality time is so precious. In your own circle you could arrange a coffee, lunch or even just a phone call with someone you want to show love to and connect with. In your community, check out local organizations on social media and see if they are hosting events/reach out to see if they could use a hand with serving, wrapping, or even just visiting with people who need it most.
Give money
This may seem like an obvious choice, but as the year closes out many organizations are in the final stages of planning and budgeting what they can accomplish in the upcoming year. If there is an organization or a cause close to your heart, be generous with an end of year gift that allows them to continue and grow in doing great work that you may physically not be able to assist with.
Give physical gifts
Again, this one may be a no brainer but physical gifts can be a huge blessing. This year our church collected pyjamas and meal cards for a local center for psychological care. Donate canned goods to local food banks. Buy or bake some holiday treats and take them to your neighbours or local businesses. Sort through your family's closets and donate items that no longer serve you, but could be a blessing to someone else!
Give thoughts & prayers
This is something that could easily be overlooked, but I have recently learned how much it can impact someone else's day. Take time to pray for someone, write them a personal letter, card or even a text message letting them know you are thinking about them or praying for them. The holidays can be a joyful, busy season but also a sad, stressful season. Ask your friends and family if they have prayer requests (leave a comment or send me a message if you need a prayer warrior yourself!) or take a look through the comments on this video. If you are an active consumer of content online, take the time to send your favourite content creators gratitude and encouragement for the work that they do.
I hope these have sparked some ideas for simple ways you can give back to your local community. How do you like to give during the holidays? Share what you're doing this year in the comments, I'd love to get inspired!
Monday, 15 August 2016
Is it hard for anyone else to believe it's already mid August? Seriously, where has this summer gone? Stores have started to fill up with long sleeves and deep colours, but I'm not quite ready to give up my floppy hats and summer dresses. Who else is with me?
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| Dress: Old Navy {similar / similar} | Hat: Sears {similar} | Sunglasses: Forever 21 {similar} Shoes: Aldo {similar / similar} | Bracelet: J. Crew {exact} |
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Tuesday, 9 August 2016
They give you and your photographer time to loosen up before the big day
While I do have some experience being in front of the camera as a blogger, I typically take all my own photos which is definitely an entirely different experience than a professional shoot. I'm so grateful we were able to take the time to learn our photographer's style of working and personality, so that we can be totally relaxed when it comes to getting photos done on our wedding day!
They will come in handy for multiple wedding-related projects
Already we have used our photos for our wedding invitations and website, and we are currently in the process of getting some printed in a book that will be using as our guest book on the day. My bridesmaids even used one or two for my bridal shower! People love seeing photos of the happy couple, and there are so many ways you can include them in all the steps leading up to your special day.
You'll have professional photos that you can use for years to come
While formal wedding photos are obviously tied to a very distinct day, more casual photos of you and your future hubby are timeless. Thank you notes and cards, gifts for close family, social media, all ways your engagement photos can live on far past your engagement period. You can even ask your photographer to capture some headshots on the day for use in your professional life. You're already all dolled up, so why not put your best face forward?
Simply, this is one of the most exciting times in your life.
Why wouldn't you want to remember it?
