Proper Hunt

Valentine's Day Treats

2012-02-08T10:58:00.000-05:00

{1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8.}
Had to throw in #8 for you love birds.
I'm not all that big on celebrating Valentine's Day. Granted, that doesn't mean I don't appreciate receiving gifts (hint hint). But if you are big on Valentine's Day and need to help out your honey with dropping hints, just send them a link to this post to check out these Valentine's Day treats that I found. And if you don't have a honey to share the day with, who says you can't be your own Valentine? I say that Valentine's Day is a day of indulging so why not indulge yourself? I'm planning on indulging myself whether or not Steve gets me anything, ha!

On another note, I'll be uber busy from tomorrow afternoon until Sunday afternoon. The fabulous reason being that my best friend (LW) is getting married this Saturday! I am SO excited to be a part of her BIG day, and to share in all of the fun wedding festivities. I'll be sure to post some pics of the wedding as soon as I can, but in the meantime below is a picture of me and the bride. Cannot wait to celebrate together, LWs!

Me & the Beautiful Bride-to-Be! Isn't she absolutely gorgeous??

A Great Day @ The Design House

2012-02-06T11:07:00.001-05:00

This is the Old Lucketts Store. I had meant to take a picture of The Design House, but in the excitement of shopping, it slipped my mind.
Did you guys make it out to The Design House this weekend? I did! And boy what a treat it was. Granted, driving for 2 hours to get out there was no fun, but once we got there I was SO excited to get shopping. Normally, I go to these tag sales with no particular shopping list, but this time around I had a very specific list to follow: two nightstands, two table lamps, some wall decor, and a dresser for my parents' basement guest room. Sadly, I wasn't able to check these off my list because I arrived a bit late and all the pieces that I loved were already claimed (drat!). BUT, I scored majorly with a gorgeous chinoiserie lamp (see photo below, it just needs a little TLC). It was too pretty to pass up even though it wasn't on my shopping list. And at $20, I had to snatch it up before anybody else could!

Even though I didn't make out like a bandit, it was still so much fun to look at all of their goods and to enjoy a nice day out with my hubby looking at things that make me so happy. If you missed out on this sale, no worries, the Old Lucketts Store is open daily so go check it out when you have a chance. And I'll mention this again closer to the date, but the Lucketts 13th Annual Spring Market (May 19th-20th) is another HUGE event that is truly amazing. I highly recommend this market because I was literally drooling over EVERYTHING last year and plan to do so again this year. I'll make sure to have a reminder post on this when we get closer to May 19-20th.

Happy Monday!

They had wood fired pizza ready-to-order AND donuts made from scratch - Steve and I were kicking ourselves since we had already eaten.

This bed was SO luxurious to the point where I almost tucked myself in.

Steve really liked this chair, and at $380 it would've been a steal but alas we didn't take it home.

Even the wrap around porch of the Old Lucketts Store was filled with goodies.

Such a chic ottoman, no?

Make a Statement With White

2012-02-02T10:32:00.001-05:00

...etc
Do white walls scare you? They used to scare me tons, but nowadays I've changed my tune. I think when done right, they're chic and just as show stopping as a room with color on the walls. I realize that I've been talking nonstop about how much I love color and wallpaper in rooms (Steve is probably cringing right now), but who says you can't have color when you've got white walls? In fact, I think that because of an absence of color on the walls, the colors you place in a room with white walls pops even more. In some instances, it gives the room a gallery effect. And in other instances, the colors you place in the room, whether through the fabrics, furniture, or accessories, can almost give the illusion that the room is soaked in color.

Since we've decided on relocating our home office to the first floor, I've started thinking that maybe we should paint the room white. Crazy, I know. But after looking at so many inspiring images on the web of white walled spaces, it gets a girl thinking that it's the chic way to go. How do you all feel about white walls?

New Artist Alert: Cozamia

2012-02-01T10:58:00.001-05:00

Wild Herringbone
I'm a big fan of abstract art, especially when there's bright and bold colors involved. Yesterday I was lucky enough to discover Cozamia's artist, Nancy Ramirez, and I am SO happy to have found another artist that Steve and I really like. I might have said this before, but Steve is extremely particular about the artwork that goes up in the house - even if it's not a space that he'll be occupying very often. He's vetoed many prints that I've wanted to place on the walls, and as much as I don't want to admit it, it's probably been for the best. But shhh, don't tell him I said that or else he might get a big head about it.

In my nursery design board post, I had another artists' painting, Jen Ramos from Cocoa and Hearts, above the crib. Well, it's looking like that original painting might not be in the cards because it's over our budget for nursery artwork and it's sold out. Which brings me to why I am so happy that I discovered Cozamia. The prints are affordable, fun, and colorful. Now, the only hard part is choosing which of her amazing prints will go in the nursery. Steve and I have our work cut out for us, eh?

Night Peonies

Poolside

Electric Garden Blue

Color Migration Black

Marilyn Monroses

Blossom Trellis

Color Migration Cream

Reminder: Groundhog Sale @ The Design House in Lucketts

2012-01-30T13:24:00.000-05:00

Lucketts Design House
I am excited! The big Groundhog Sale going on at The Design House @ the Old Lucketts Store is right around the corner ... this weekend in fact (Feb. 3-5). I'm not entirely sure which day I'm going to head up there, but I'm definitely dragging Steve along in case we need to haul some furniture (I'm hoping to find some pieces for either the nursery or the basement guest room at my parents' house). I've gotten some really cool items at the Old Lucketts Store in the past, so I can't wait to see what goodies they have in store. Make sure you try to get there too!

Time to Freshen Up!

2012-01-27T15:02:00.001-05:00

The Silver Screen Affair
What do you guys think of the updated look?? I couldn't wait until Monday (and neither could Steve) so here is a nod to the old design. Don't get me wrong, I really liked the previous design but I was starting to feel like I needed to simplify the page a bit. It was starting to look really busy, right? Plus, I really missed the scallop design and the old font so I updated the scallop design a bit and went back to the old font. I figured with the new year, it was time to freshen up the blog a bit and get it to where I'm really happy with the design. And nothing is cheerier than a yellow background! Hope you all like it as much as I do!

Is Spring Here?

2012-01-27T12:28:00.001-05:00

Madewell via Bambilulu
We are having the craziest weather here in Annapolis this morning. We've already had a thunderstorm come through and we are expecting more rain later today. With all this rain, it is really starting to feel like Spring. How crazy is that? Don't get me wrong, I like hearing the birds chirping while the sun is shining after a thunderstorm, but it kinda feels like the biggest tease in the world! It makes me think that I can wear my leopard printed smoking slippers along with my leather bomber jacket all the time. But then it gets cold again and I have to bust out the socks, ugh!

Walking Emma this morning made me get so excited for Spring and all that it entails. A sense of renewal, the flowers blooming, the baby coming, and the fashion! I'm going to digress from home decor for a sec only because the Spring fashion this year is something I am really looking forward to. I guess it's because I can't really fit into anything that I want to wear right now so of course I'm thinking about what I'm going to wear once the baby is born. If you know me, you know that this is not a big surprise.

It seems that every designer is going for pops of color and that just makes me SO happy. I'm sick of wearing dark colors. Some of my favorite brands have me drooling for their Spring collection and I thought it only fitting to share with you what I am coveting so very much. Kate Spade and Madewell are just a couple of the brands that I am head-over-heels for. I'm especially loving the periwinkle & white chevron dress from Kate Spade and the trench coat. See anything you fancy?

*On a side note - I'll be making a few changes to the design of this blog but more on that either later today or on Monday. Although, I have a feeling I won't be able to wait that long so expect a few changes by later today! TGIF!

Madewell via Bambilulu

Kate Spade via Babble

Kate Spade via Style Frizz

Fashion Snob-ish

Kate Spade via Fashionologie

Kate Spade via Style Frizz

New Store Alert: Circa Who

2012-01-26T14:34:00.001-05:00

Ficks Reed Rattan Cabinet
I have to say that I am so glad that I found this store in West Palm Beach, Florida! I recently stumbled upon Circa Who from one of my pins on Pinterest (gotta love that site!) and am in love with all of their merchandise. If I could, I would rent a giant truck and drive down there to buy everything possible this very minute. But that wouldn't be very nice of me now would it? There might be nothing left for anyone else!

Shop owner Tracy Deramus has meticulously found the best-of-the-best in Palm Beach furnishings - she hand-picks every item. I've looked at everything on her site, and all I have to say is that even though I can't afford to buy anything right now, it just makes me so happy to see such amazing pieces. Funny how that works, right? I guess it just makes me happy knowing that pieces like these still exist out there. Which of her pieces are your favs? I would seriously kill to have those basket weave chairs for our deck...

Basket Weave Chairs
With a new coat of paint and cushions, this would be perfect on our deck.

Nardini Tassel Lamps

Lucite Bar Cart
Love lucite and brass together.

Faux Bamboo Garden Seat

Faux Bamboo Pagoda Etagere

Green Chinoiserie Secretary

Scroll Coffee Table
Another piece that I would love to have on our deck.

4 Fretwork Pagoda Chairs

Faux Bamboo Barrel Chair
With an upholstered cushion in a fresh print, this would be a great desk chair.

Pair of Faux Bamboo Lamps

UPDATED: Parents' Second Full Bathroom Design Board

2012-01-25T12:08:00.001-05:00

{1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8.}
Here is the new and improved design board for my brothers' bathroom at my parents' house! What do you guys think? Forgot what the original design board looked like? Check it out here so you can compare.

Here is a rundown of what we switched out. We changed out the bathroom light fixture since the previous one was a tad too modern. And honestly it looked nothing like the photo provided online once we got it delivered. It was so disappointing because it wasn't what we were expecting. Lesson learned - if you're on a time crunch, always order in advanced so that you've got time to find something else if the original item doesn't work out. In our case, there was no rush but a good lesson learned. This time around, I actually went to Home Depot and found this Hampton Bay one that I thought would be perfect.

The mirror also got switched out to something more classic. My mom was not a fan of the Ikea round mirror that I thought would work out. She really wanted something that had a more prominent frame around it, but I could not find one that I thought would work, so in the end we compromised and decided on this Moen one - frameless yet classic. It's funny, I'm actually glad my mom protested because I prefer this Moen one much more than the Ikea one now.

What I had chosen for artwork seemed like a good idea at first, but then I realized that it might be a tad too girly for my brothers. SO, I found another print that I thought was more appropriate for them. This print of Baltimore City's skyline seems to be perfect since the city is only 20 minutes away from the house and it's where Tim (the older of the two brothers) went to grad school. But instead of the gray, I would choose the "Stone" color that is offered.

And last but not least, I switched out the wastebasket for something a bit softer since there are a lot of straight & geometric lines going on in this bathroom. Plus, this new one adds texture that the other one didn't have. *For some reason, I couldn't find the exact one I purchased from the stores online. But if you really wanted it in the darker shade, you could always spray paint the lighter one in a darker shade.

One of these days we'll have a final install day, which I promise will be soon since I dying to get this bathroom done ASAP. But until then, let me know what you think of this updated design board!

Online Hunts That'll Take You Away

2012-01-24T10:51:00.001-05:00

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7.
All day yesterday, I scoured the net for great finds to use in the rooms that I'm decorating at my parents' house. I found some great items that will definitely work for both the basement guest room and the boys' bathroom, but besides finding items for those rooms, I came across these finds that I think just transport you to either an exotic or beach locale. Places that I would much rather be than here in freezing Maryland.

On another note, I've reworked a few of the items on the design board that I created for my brothers' bathroom. After talking it over with my mom, we decided to keep the light fixture and mirror on the more traditional/classic side - she didn't want to go too modern in the bathroom. We did keep the accessories modern, but for the main pieces we're sticking to the classics. I'll definitely show you the reworked design board tomorrow so you can let me know what you think.

Let's Do the Tangerine Tango

2012-01-20T12:21:00.001-05:00

Body & Soul
I woke up this morning feeling crazy kicks and punches from my little girl, which jumpstarted me right out of bed. In fact, she's still kickboxing as I write this. So, I figured that writing a post on Tangerine Tango, Pantone's Color of the Year, would be appropriate since the color is like a jolt of energy -- similar to what's going on in my stomach at the moment. Plus, with the new year here what better color to get us moving and grooving than Tangerine?

I think when most people think of the orange color family, whether it's in fashion or in the home, they get scared or intimidated. And I totally get it. It's not exactly a color that "goes with everything" and so it takes a bit of effort to know how to use it in your wardrobe or home. BUT, what I don't think people realize is that you don't need to use it all over the place or even paint a wall in Tangerine. Just adding accent pillows here and there in that color family can work wonders for your space. An orange throw to go over your sofa will also do the trick. In my opinion, pops of color are the way to go if you're still a bit hesitant about using Tangerine (or any bold color), since they aren't a huge commitment and can really refresh your space. *You'll see below, but this color goes SO well with blues, yellows, whites, blacks, purples and pinks - lots of different colors!

Some of the spaces below go all out with Tangerine Tango and some just use a table lamp or pillows to freshen the room up. Any way you go about using this modern & fresh color, you'll be happy you did. Trust me, this color exudes happiness. I think of Kate Spade, Diane von Furstenberg, & Jcrew when I see this color and those 3 things make me a very happy girl. Hope this brightens your day!

The At Home Blog in Arkansas

homeSTYLE

Barbara Gilbert Interiors

Porter Design Company

A Side Note On Side Tables

2012-01-19T12:27:00.001-05:00

Bronze Side Table
Ever since we learned of our pregnancy, I've spent most of my time in our living/family room because it's on the same level as the kitchen (the 2nd floor) and has a T.V. in it. Well, since I spend a lot of time in that room, I've started noticing one small addition that could be made to improve the function of the room. In my opinion (Steve doesn't seem to think so), I think the sofa needs a side table on one side (the other side has a floor lamp that is much needed in that area of the room). Especially for when we have company over and the sofa is at full capacity, it would be nice to have a side table on which more drinks can be placed since the coffee table seems to lose surface area fast.

I feel like it's been a while since I've written one of these posts where I list items that I've found that I just really want to share with you, right? Not all of the side tables below will work in our living/family room, but I really like them so they made the list too! Which would you want in your house?

Ginger Blue Side Table

Morocco Accent Table

Ming Lacquered Linen Table

"Lawson" Storage Table

Weekend Fun and Deciding on Green Drapes

2012-01-17T12:14:00.000-05:00

Ruthie Sommers via Lonnymag
I woke up at 9:55am this morning. I can't even remember the last time I woke up that late having gone to bed relatively early (11:30pm)! Clearly, I had a lot of fun over the long weekend. It all started when our good friends (part of the "Great Gatsby Gang"), John & Lindsey, stayed the night on Saturday. Over the weekend we had just about the best time ever. Lindsey and I were having too much fun talking that we didn't eat dinner until 10pm! We like to talk, what can I say? The fun continued to Sunday, as we all woke up leisurely, ate some yummy bagels for breakfast, and lounged around flipping through design books/magazines (us girls) while the guys watched ridiculously funny movies on TV.

It was sad when they had to return back to the city, really sad. I think Steve and I were depressed the minute they left because it took us about 2 hours to muster up the energy to go to the grocery store. But we (or rather I) had something to console myself with. The Golden Globes were going to be on Sunday night! Weren't the movie stars absolutely gorgeous? The stars that I thought were best-dressed during E!'s red carpet preview would have to be Charlize Theron, Reese Witherspoon, and Salma Hayek. I'm pretty sure I missed out on other fabulously dressed stars since I started watching the show a tad late, but these ladies were real standouts in my opinion.

Then yesterday, Steve and I spent all day together which was so nice. We went to Georgetown to do some shopping (I had to go back to Annie Creamcheese to use up what was left on my Groupon), and then Steve made a delicious pizza that we devoured while watching TV. Even while all of these wonderful activities were going on, Steve and I made a pretty big decision concerning our master bedroom decor. We decided that emerald green drapes would be perfect in our bedroom. I know that sounds pretty shocking or unusual, but somehow I convinced Steve that it would look fabulous and amazingly he agreed! I was inspired by the photo above because the wallpaper color is very similar to our own wall color and I even have a vanity table that looks just like the one in the photo, except in white. Makes me want to paint it black after seeing this photo though. Plus, the rest of our room is pretty subtle, which is what we wanted since it is our sanctuary of sorts. But, since we also like a pop of color now and then, we think drapes would be a perfect place to add that punchiness. Would you dare to get emerald green drapes in your home?

Annie Creamcheese Finds

2012-01-13T14:04:00.000-05:00

Ever have one of those mornings where you wake up feeling really groggy & tired, and even after having your morning cup o' joe + a sugary breakfast, you only fall victim to your sleepiness again but by 100-fold? Yup, I definitely had one of those mornings despite the morning sunshine brightening the whole house up. But I think I know what will perk me right up. More thrifting!

I've been so lucky to get to go to several thrift stores and consignment shops this week. Just last night, I went to a great boutique in Georgetown called Annie Creamcheese with my best friend LWs. I felt like a kid in a candy store. Actually, I'm pretty sure we both felt that way. This store is full of great vintage/couture clothes as well as vintage & new jewelry, shoes, and accessories. Want to see what I picked up?

Any dress that exposes the shoulders is definitely up my alley.

This is what I call a hanger dress. It doesn't look like much on the hanger, but it looks fabulous on!

What better way to celebrate and embrace Pantone's color of the year (Tangerine Tango), than to wear it.

Black and White Polka Dot Photo Album
And I did end up finding a baby album yesterday at Target. I decided to pass on getting these chevron pillows only because the material easily snagged (I noticed several snags on all of the ones there). Plus, my memory didn't serve me well because they ended up not really coordinating with the fabric swatches I took with me. I've been wanting to refresh our reupholstered settee with some fresh, modern pillows and I was hoping that these Target pillows would work out since you can't beat their $19.99 price tag. But it's looking like I'll be sticking with all Caitlin Wilson pillow covers since I just love the colors and prints. These were the fabric swatches I took with me to Target:

Fleur Chinoise Pillow Cover

Mustard City Maze Pillow Cover

Navy Souk Trellis Pillow Cover

Coral Tall Chevron Pillow
Happy Friday!

My $3 Thrifty Find

2012-01-12T11:23:00.000-05:00

To say that yesterday was a success, albeit a little one, is an understatement. I somehow scored a $3 brass faux bamboo magazine rack at my local Goodwill and must say that it just might be one of my best thrift store finds ever. I mean, anything as fabulous as this rack for under $30 is just crazy but for $3, it's absolutely unheard of! I've seen how much eBayers charge for similar magazine racks and with shipping costs, you're looking at $40+ at least, so I'm pretty sure I got a good deal. Granted, it needs to be cleaned and polished but other than that, this is perfect for our new home office. Goodness knows I collect magazines like there's no tomorrow so a new magazine rack is always welcome in our house.

I only hit up two stores yesterday (the Goodwill and a consignment shop), so am still feeling the need to do more thrifting. With the long weekend coming up, I just might have to make a trip to Value Village (heard only good things about this place and yet have never been!) and other thrift stores in the beltway area. But today I'm going to take a trip to Target to snag a great chevron pillow I saw the other day, and then pop into Paper Source to see if they have any baby albums (or albums I can use as our baby album). When you start rolling up your baby's precious sonogram photos since you don't have anywhere to store them, it's time to get an album and be an adult about it. Plus, we've only started taking photos of my baby bump so I definitely want to include those photos in the baby album too. And I promise to post up a photo of my baby bump very soon, I just need to have a good hair day before Steve snaps a photo of me...

Happy Thursday!

Feel Like Thrifting Today

2012-01-11T11:07:00.001-05:00

Heather Garrett Design
How gorgeous is the gold pendant light above? Seeing this on Pinterest reminded me of how I foolishly let a very similar pendant light go a while back. I saw it at The Lucketts Store in Leesburg, Virginia and pondered over it for a bit. I even called Steve to get his opinion on it (photo texting comes in so handy!) and somehow decided against it - crazy, I know! And to this day, I am kicking myself for letting such a beautiful light fixture slip through my fingers. I don't know where the one in the photo above is from so I can't even get my hands on it, but because it reminded me of the beautiful one I let go, I am on the hunt today for something as equally fabulous as the exotic gold pendant light that I should have purchased. Wish me luck as I scope out some local thrift and consignment shops today!

Waiting for Spring

2012-01-10T11:52:00.000-05:00

Brabourne Farm
It was unseasonably warm (mid 60's!) on Friday and Saturday here in Annapolis, which absolutely delighted everyone. It actually felt like Spring was just around the corner, with that lovely warm Spring smell in the air. But, it snowed last night. Ha! So deceiving Mother Nature. Well, needless to say, it made me long for the warmer weather of Spring, especially since I am anxious to meet my baby girl! I'm just counting down the days until we meet her AND can enjoy the outdoors. I miss barbecuing (Steve will never believe that I said that but it's true!), wearing sundresses, and sunbathing at the beach/pool. Can you blame a girl for wanting the warm weather, especially when she was born in Hawaii?? So, you can understand my need for the sun.

Until then I'm going to have to rely on images that evoke Spring and the enjoyment of the outdoors. It'll be a tease, but I've got no other options at the moment. Well, at least it'll help me get motivated to decorate our back deck since it's been the one space that we've somewhat neglected to spruce up since we moved into this house. That's what I'll do. I'll focus on getting all of the pieces ready for Spring so that we are ready to entertain outside as soon as the temps reach 65 degrees! In the meantime, enjoy the images below and hopefully they'll help you imagine yourself enjoying a cool cocktail outside somewhere basking in the sun.

Elle Decor

Amber Interior Design via Pinterest

Nancy Taylor Lynch Designs

Ruthie Sommers via LonnyMag

West Elm Favorites

2012-01-06T11:34:00.000-05:00

Mid-century nightstand
I can't decide between this and the one below for the basement guest room...
Happy Friday! I'm going to interrupt our normally scheduled program of home decor subjects to tell you about my lovely morning, which was made lovely by a fabulously yummy recipe. It's an absolutely gorgeous, sunny day in Annapolis and there's really nothing better than making some Southern Buttermilk biscuits (best recipe EVER - Southern Buttermilk Biscuits) from scratch to enjoy the morning even more. I've tried a few different recipes before, but this is the first one I've tried that uses buttermilk, and I must tell you that buttermilk is the way to go! These are by far, the BEST biscuits I've ever made and as proof here's a pic.

Now, getting back to our usual home decor talk. The other day, we received our West Elm catalog in the mail and I tossed it on the coffee table not thinking much of it. I had noticed that it said "20% off Bedding & Bath" so I immediately thought that there wouldn't be anything new in there, only sale items. Well, yesterday I figured I'd just flip through it out of boredom, and can I just say how glad I am that I did? I came across quite a few pieces that I think would be great in my parents' basement guest room as well as our future home office/guest room. I'm thinking that a trip to West Elm might be in the cards for this weekend, you know, so that I can check everything out in person. Just wish that there was a West Elm closer to Annapolis, hint hint West Elm. Build one near us please and I promise to buy something every time I visit!

Turned-Leg Nightstand
Can I just say how happy I am that they offer this in a lacquered red!

Andalusia Dhurrie
Same great pattern, but now offered in a gorgeous platinum color.

Gradiated-Stripe Cotton Rug
Pantone's 2012 color of the year, Tangerine Tango, is already making its way into West Elm.

Hand-blocked Lola Quilt

River Rock Shower Curtain

Lattice Dhurrie

Queen Anne's Lace Printed Panel
This might be just the thing for the new home office/guest room.

Gold Flatware Set
Finally, a gold flatware set that I like AND that I can afford!

Fanned Placemat Set
The yellow ones would add such sunshine to any dining table.

Wallpaper Samples Ordered, Check! Well, Almost.

2012-01-04T15:48:00.001-05:00

Hygge & West Petal Pusher
I'm going to see how this looks in the nursery closet.
I have a confession to make. I didn't go anywhere near the home office (a.k.a. future nursery) yesterday. I just couldn't bring myself to enter our 'scary' room. Seriously, it's SO scary that we keep the door closed because we don't want to see the mess that has accumulated when we walk by. I know, I really need to do something about it but when the temps drop to the 30s, I really don't feel like doing much of anything. Well, except for eating a ton of food and drinking hot cocoa.

So, to compensate for my lack of organizing and cleaning I finally ordered some wallpaper samples. Or rather, I ordered 3 and had to hold off on another 3 since they're from the UK (from Wallpaper Direct) and you unfortunately cannot order them online if you live in the US. I had to email them asking if they could send them to me and they promptly replied this morning saying that I could call them to order the samples. I called but didn't get through, so I'll have to call again tomorrow. Fingers crossed, since it's the Perroquet sample that I am dying to get. Anywho, check out the samples that I ordered below!

On a completely random side note, I start my Prenatal Yoga class tomorrow! I'm really excited to get some exercise and to bond with my body & baby. I even bought a new yoga mat to get me revved up for it. Hopefully, it's not as tough as Ashtanga yoga or else I'm in big trouble. Have any of you taken prenatal yoga classes before?

Shand Kydd via Steve's Wallpaper

Asuka
This is a potential option for the entryway once we built the wall.

Perroquet
I can't decide between the new entryway wall, the first floor bathroom, or the new office that will be built. I just absolutely love this!

Cecily
This could definitely go in our bedroom to make a statement wall.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T09:43:00.001-05:00

FFFFound
What a year 2011 was! It's amazing how the year flew by. I can even remember exactly what I did last year for NYE and it feels like it happened just yesterday. I said that to Steve and he said that rather than thinking back to one point in time, I should think back to all that has happened and all the things we've done in-between then and now so that it doesn't feel like time flew by so quickly. And he's right. I should remember the wonderful trip we took to Nice & Provence (totally unexpected but absolutely lovely), all of the fun times we've spent with our friends, a trip to the beach with family, and of course we can't forget the fact that we got the biggest surprise of our lives - getting pregnant!

It's been a great year full of the unexpected and we couldn't be happier or more excited for 2012. I think about how our lives will change forever this year (in the best way possible) and I just get so giddy. I also get overwhelmed with some of the projects that we have to do before this little girl arrives. Remember how I told you we had a contractor come by to give us an estimate for a small renovation in order to better accommodate Steve's working environment? Well, it looks like we'll most likely be getting that renovation done within a few months. What are you getting done, you say? We plan to build a wall with french doors to enclose our first floor space. Right now, it's an underused TV room with a fireplace and it will be far more functional once it becomes an office/guest room. I'm so excited about this project, but since we're transferring the function of rooms around (home office to become the nursery, underused TV room to become office/guest room) it means we need to do a lot of cleaning, purging, and organizing. That part I'm not really looking forward to. In fact, as much as I'm dreading it, I'm thinking of starting that process today. Might as well get it going before it becomes too big a monster to tackle, right?

Along with those projects, I still have to finish up my parents' 2nd bathroom (had to halt that project to accommodate for my terrible first trimester experience). My parents have also asked me to decorate their basement guest room. With the baby coming, they want me and Steve to have a comfortable space whenever we stay the night (I think they want us to have our own room there so that we have no excuse but to stay the night so they can spend more time with their grandchild). It's a fabulous room since it's got an en suite bathroom and has complete privacy, but it literally needs everything (i.e. bed, nightstands, dresser, and even closet doors!). So I've definitely got my work cut out for me on this particular project, but hey, I can't really complain since I have full control over everything.

I know I wrote a lot today but one of my New Year's resolutions is to really use this blog as more of a journal as opposed to just a digital pinboard of things that I like. There are a lot of things going on in my life and they all influence how I see things in the decor world, so it only makes sense to keep you in the loop with both aspects. Okay, enough of my writing and lets get to some images that I have in mind for these particular projects.

I would love to wallpaper my parents' basement guest room with a Paris map. It's a windowless room, so I think a huge map of Paris would give such a romantic feel to the room. {lovely things}

Ever since I saw this in Domino, I've been dying to use it somewhere in our house. The first floor bathroom might be the most appropriate place for now. {Perroquet - Nina Campbell}

I like the idea of a very white foundational palette with accents of black and pink for our new office. {Little Bits of Lovely}

For some reason, I am really drawn to the idea of having red nightstands in my parents' basement guest room. They just add such a perfect pop of color. {The Decorista}

It's completely sold out, but this Kate Spade Piedmont Park bedding set is definite inspiration for the basement guest room. {Pinterest}

Bulletin Board: Katie Ridder

2011-12-29T12:15:00.000-05:00

Elle Decor
Sorry for not posting this yesterday as I had promised, but it was another zombie-like day for me - total body fatigue. But I am with it today and I wanted to share with you a designer that clearly loves using color and pattern in her designs - Katie Ridder. I think Katie Ridder is just the cat's meow. I love her use of color combinations and I especially love her wallpaper choices. You all know how much I love wallpaper (can't believe I haven't wallpapered anything yet!). To see her wallpapered spaces done in a way that I can totally appreciate and love provides me with so much inspiration and viewing pleasure.

I'll be gone (til next week Monday) to Steve's dad's house to celebrate a belated Christmas and the New Year. So I thought that ending 2011 and starting 2012 with Katie Ridder would be a great way to usher in the new year. What do you think? Can you dig her designs?

Have a fabulous & safe New Year's celebration!

My Design Chic

{All images from Katie Ridder unless otherwise noted.}

What a Wonderful Christmas!

2011-12-27T10:51:00.002-05:00

Pink Coffee Inspirations and Creative Thoughts
I have to tell you, every year Christmas somehow just keeps getting better and better. And this Christmas was no exception. Because of the news of our little girl arriving next year, this Christmas has been particularly special to us. It has been full of so much love and excitement from our families and it just doesn't get any better than that. As if that wasn't enough, Santa must've thought I was a good girl this year because I got gifts for the nursery that I've been dying to get! More on that later though!

And with that said, I just want to take the time to thank you all for being such amazing and supportive readers of this blog! This year, Proper Hunt has seen a growth in its readership and I know that it's because you all support and share it with friends. I love sharing with you what I find, what I think about things, and just the little tidbits about my life. And honestly it amazes me that you all enjoy reading about it! But I just want to thank you all for an incredible year.

I hope that you all had loads of fun with family and friends over the Christmas weekend and that there was lots of eating involved. For some reason, I can't seem to eat as much as I'd like - this might be the first Christmas where I couldn't gorge myself completely. So I hope you all ate a lot, for my sake at least! I'll be back tomorrow with a new Bulletin Board of a designer that I just have to share with you all. Stay tuned for tomorrow!

Working Through My Christmas Checklist

2011-12-22T14:49:00.001-05:00

The Lovely Cupboard
What a busy week it's been so far and it's only going to get busier! But, I'm so excited about Christmas, and the chance to spend time with family, that I don't care how busy I've been. My apologies for being MIA until now; I was getting some great Christmas shopping done on Tuesday and that left me pooped out yesterday (I was a total zombie from fatigue). Even with that shopping done, I still have a huge to-do list: cleaning, dressing the table, grocery shopping, and a few last minute DIY projects that I need to tackle to complete our Christmas decorations (including printing out my DIY gift tags, eek!). Speaking of DIY projects, I had to share with you the site, The Lovely Cupboard, because it is chock-full-of great DIY projects including the one in the photo above. I secretly want to create something like the lighted board for the nursery... Hopefully you are all done with most of your preparations and are not last minute like I am!

Setting the Christmas Table

2011-12-19T16:06:00.000-05:00

Martha Stewart
You'll have to forgive me for a post so late in the day, but this past weekend really pooped me out. In a good way of course! It was filled with holiday get-togethers with friends new and old and it was just really, really fun. Of course both nights I didn't go to bed until 1am (super late for me), which is why I woke up this morning much later than I should have. And I still have loads to do before Sunday, but the thing on my mind is how I'm going to dress the table for Christmas dinner. Keeping it somewhat simple and colorful is definitely the direction I want to go in, but I came across the images below and just couldn't help but share them with you all. They're all quite different from one another, but each is festive in it's own way. Which tablescape is your favorite?

Eddie Ross via Casa Sugar

Better Homes and Gardens

Conspicuous Style
Gotta have a table for the kids...

How Does She

All-Day Christmas Cookie Baking

2011-12-16T10:59:00.001-05:00

Glazed Spritz Cookie (Martha Stewart)
Guess what I'm doing today? Yup, you guessed it! I'll be in the kitchen all day baking up a storm. On the menu for today is: Peanut Butter Cookie Cups, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge (I'm really excited about this one), Peanut Butter Fudge, Pralines & Cream Fudge, and hopefully Gingerbread cookies as well as Spritz cookies. We'll see how much I get through today, but that's the plan.

Oh, and totally random but I'm super excited about tomorrow morning because the contractor is coming to give us an estimate for a potential home reno that we want to do before the baby arrives. I'll have more details as soon as we learn of the quote he gives us, so fingers crossed!

Hope you all have a lovely Friday!

A Design Board for Our Little Girl's Nursery

2011-12-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

{1) Bufta BIG Light - definite DIY project, 2) "Little Dresses" Print, 3) Elephant Print by Caitlin McGauley, 4) Modern Brass Elephant Coin Bank, 5) Brigitte Single Drawer Oval Table, 6) Ektorp Jennylund Armchair with Putty/White Pirput Parput Printed Cotton Slipcover, 7) Berry Fleur Chinoise Fabric - I'm thinking of a roman shade with this fabric, 8) Mint Fret Fabric - I think this fabric would make a cute fitted sheet for the crib, 9) Queen Anne Mirror, 10) Our Greek Key Dresser, 11) Yellow Cachepot from One Kings Lane that I picked up earlier this year, 12) Rens Sheepskin Rug, 13) Oeuf Sparrow Crib in White, and 14) "Ascending" by Jen Ramos. Wall Color is Whisper Violet by Benjamin Moore.}
Ever since we found out we're having a little girl, all I can think about is how I'm going to decorate her nursery. I'm really excited about creating a sophisticated-yet-whimsical space for her. At first, I was very indecisive and had a ton of ideas floating around in my head, but now I think I have a clearer picture of what I want to achieve. I figured if I created a design board with all of the items I bookmarked (along with pieces we already own), then I would know whether or not they will all go together.

So far I think I'm on the right track, although I suppose since I still have awhiles to go I might change my mind about a few things. Actually, I'm thinking at this moment that the mirror might change since I can't decide between a modern mirror, a vintage gold one, or a vintage Venetian mirror. A vintage gold mirror would add some warmth, glitz, and history to the room while a vintage Venetian mirror would add history and femininity. Ahh, the choices one must make. I think in the end it'll all come down to the price, so we'll see how my search for the perfect mirror goes. And there will need to be more accessories and storage pieces in the room, but for now, I'm starting out with the basics. How'd I do so far?

New Favorite Gift Wrapping Idea

2011-12-14T14:15:00.001-05:00

Brunch at Saks
My new favorite way of wrapping gifts. Check out Annemarie's DIY on creating this gorgeously simple wrapping job. Must go to Michael's now to find glitter ribbon...

Holiday Wish List 2011: Stocking Stuffer Edition

2011-12-13T14:57:00.000-05:00

{1) Ladurée Macarons, 2) Kate Spade Double Exposure Earrings, 3) Brass Horse Envelope Knife, 4) Bonne Mère Soap - Honeysuckle, 5) Alphabet Mug, 6) Color-banded Dessert Plates, 7) Gold Wishbone Keychain, 8) Lady Like, and 9) Lollipop.}
Somehow, I've lost track of the days this month. I mean I think my heart literally did a somersault when I realized today was the 13th (less than 2 weeks 'till Christmas!). I should've realized it sooner too, since the past couple of times I've gone shopping (during the day mind you) there's been a ton of shoppers out.

Hopefully, you've all got your shopping lists whittled down to just a few last gifts, but if you're still having some trouble, then I hope my stocking stuffer holiday wish list helps you out. #6 might seem a bit difficult to get into a stocking, but they were just so pretty and inexpensive that I couldn't leave them out! I know that if any of the items above made it to my stocking, I'd be one very happy girl, hint hint.

More Gift Tags for the Holidays

2011-12-08T10:42:00.001-05:00

Red and White Embossed Gift Tags
We've got a few more weeks to go before Christmas, which means there's still plenty of time to get these gift tags for those lovely presents filling up under your tree. All but one of these gift tags must be purchased but like I said before, you've got the time. And for these pretty little things, why not splurge a little? I especially love the calligraphy personalized gift tags. They are pretty fancy as far as gift tags go, but you really can't beat calligraphy. They are just so lovely, no?

Speaking of lovely presents filling up under the tree, we're a tad behind... I mean we've purchased a few gifts but I still need to wrap them and add gift tags to them. Plus, it doesn't help that most of the gifts we're giving this year are "experiences" rather than material goods. Most of our family members really enjoy "experiences" (e.g. tickets to a show, gift cards to the movies, etc.) so that's the route we're taking this year. But, that's not to say little things won't appear under the tree for our family members...

If there's one thing I've learned regarding Christmas morning, it is that there's nothing like opening a lot of gifts, whether they're big or small, and I'm pretty sure lots of people feel the same way. And to see presents get the royal treatment with how they're wrapped and tagged is just the cherry on top!

Jones Design Company

Calligraphy Personalized Gift Tags

Round Knit Gift Tags

Chalkboard Wine Glass Tags/Gift Tags

Love, Santa Holiday Gift Tags

Vintage Doilies Gift Tags

Assorted Gift Tags

A Pretty in Pink Christmas

2011-12-05T12:14:00.000-05:00

luxe + lilies
Have I got news for you today. We have been awaiting this day for the past month and I am just over-the-moon to share with you the exciting news: we are having a little girl! I cannot tell you how happy I am right now. Even the fact that I have jury duty tomorrow at 8am doesn't bring me down. Okay, maybe it does just a tad but I'm still grinning like a cheshire cat over my happiness.

I feel like I can finally start planning properly for her nursery since knowing that our baby is a girl makes it that much more real. It's funny, the whole first trimester and even up until earlier this morning, I was still like, "am I really pregnant?" But after seeing our little girl in the ultrasound and seeing her move around like a little acrobat, it really hit both of us how very 'real' she is.

I was going to save this Pink Christmas post for a bit later, but since we just found out we're having a little girl, I figured it was only appropriate to share these Pink Christmas images with you in honor of our news. Enjoy and Happy Monday!

Sugar Paper

Making it Lovely

Country Living

Better Homes and Gardens

D Home Magazine

Better Homes and Gardens

Eddie Ross

Country Living

Home Klondike

Holiday Wish List 2011 Part II

2011-12-02T11:55:00.001-05:00

{1) Brigitte Side Table, 2) Petal Pusher Wallpaper, 3) Brass Orbit Desk Lamp, 4) Non Je Ne Regrette Rien print, 5) Trina Turk Zimba Chartreuse Fabric, 6) Navy Metallic Pencil/Makeup Case, 7) Lip Tease Teacup and Saucer, and 8) Colors 52 by Cocoa and Hearts.}
So, I might as well be completely honest and just say that these Holiday Wish Lists that I'm creating are really wish lists that I've created for myself. I know that I've said that others may like the items I share, but really it's all about what I'm hoping to find under the Christmas tree! Oh, just a tad selfish, no? I'm blaming it on the pregnancy hormones. Oh wait, actually now that I mention it - a few of the items are in fact what I'm thinking of getting for the nursery, so I guess I'm not being completely selfish, right?

I would love to get #1 for the nursery, but with that price tag, I'm not so sure that'll actually happen. But a girl can dream, no? And the Petal Pusher wallpaper might be something I want to dress the inside of the nursery's closet with. Even if we find out we're having a boy, I might still use it (even though it's floral) because I just like it that much.

Happy Friday everyone!

All About Trays

2011-12-01T09:52:00.001-05:00

Sanity Fair
I've got about 11 trays in use at our home. Seriously, I counted, and only 2 are used for food & drink. The rest are for organizational purposes. To say that I have an obsession with trays is an understatement. I even found one the other day, but I just couldn't justify buying something for myself when we've got loads of Christmas shopping to do for others. Well, today just happens to be my lucky day because I came across an extremely simple yet fabulous DIY project that I think will ease the pain that I felt from giving up the tray that I found the other day.

Sanity Fair has this easy peasy DIY project to customize your own lucite tray. She even used leopard print paper which is the exact print that was on the tray that I wanted! I've got some leopard print wrapping paper (picked it up along with a few other glamorous wrapping paper rolls) that I'll be using in this DIY project. Now I just need to head to the Container Store to pick up a lucite tray and I'll be all set for creating my own leopard print lucite tray! I'll be sure to share my finished work as soon as it's done! In the meantime, enjoy some of these elegantly styled trays that just make me smile.

Tilly Maison

Swank Heights

Rue Magazine

A Well Traveled Woman

A Cup of Te

Home For The Holidays

2011-11-29T12:24:00.001-05:00

Better Homes and Gardens
Isn't it crazy how fast Thanksgiving flew by? Steve, Emma, and I had such a good time spending a few days at my parents' house for Thanksgiving. It was so relaxing and fun to spend time with family, I definitely didn't want the fun to end. But now we've got Christmas to look forward to! And this year we'll be hosting Christmas dinner so you know I'll be decking the house out to the nines with decorations.

We've got a few decorations up, but have yet to get a Christmas tree. I was hoping to get one this evening, but with the rainy weather we're having, I think it'll be more prudent to wait until tomorrow when the sun will be out. Until tomorrow, I'll just have to satisfy my Christmas cravings with these images below.

Design Sponge
Love how these gifts are wrapped in such an artistic and charming way.

Martha Stewart
This is a great way to showcase your holiday cards and decorate your house.

Good Housekeeping
Such a clever idea to stamp the initials of the gift's recipient.

The Glitter Guide

Pinterest
I really love seeing the color combo green, white, and black during the holidays.

Elizabeth Anne Designs

Dreamy Whites
Simple, airy, and elegant.

Norococo

A hot chocolate station is perfect for holiday gatherings.

And The Winner of the Shabby Apple Giveaway Is...

2011-11-28T10:41:00.000-05:00

@Liam'sMama! Congrats on winning the gold feather necklace! All you need to do in order to receive your lovely necklace is send me an email with your name, shipping address, and phone number and Shabby Apple will be shipping it to you directly.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the giveaway!

A Fun(ny) Way to Give Thanks

2011-11-23T09:29:00.001-05:00

A Beautiful Mess - Printable Mustaches
I'll be busy as a bee today baking up a storm, but I wanted to share this with you since I just thought it was so funny and cute. Every year since I can remember, my family and I have always shared what we're most thankful for at Thanksgiving dinner. And just within the past decade, it's become one of my favorite traditions. During my teenage years, it wasn't exactly the type of tradition I was eager to participate in but now I'm singing a different tune. Well, except for one itty bitty problem I have with this tradition - I tend to get all teary-eyed because I get so sentimental and usually ruin my makeup. Nothing like family photos with mascara and eye liner running down your face. Any who, I know that sharing what you're thankful for is somewhat of a serious type of announcement, but why get so serious on such a joyous occasion? Which brings me to why I think these mustaches are perfect. You get to share what you're most thankful for, but at the same time keep the mood light and fun.

I love how Elsie attaches them to toothpicks to stick into cupcakes, but I'm sure you could easily use double-sided tape and stick the mustaches right on your face. Either way it's bound to be a hit, especially with the kids.

I hope you all have a wonderful time giving thanks with family and friends this Thanksgiving holiday. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

A Beautiful Mess - Printable Mustaches

Ideas for the Nursery

2011-11-22T11:43:00.001-05:00

Me Oh My
I'm leaning towards simple and sophisticated window treatments like these.
Not knowing whether our little one is going to be a boy or a girl has made it a tad difficult for us to decide on anything regarding the nursery and its decor. Steve has pretty much given me full reign over how to decorate it, which is (let's be honest) to be expected. But I definitely will get his opinions on a few of the major pieces.

Until we know whether we're having a boy or a girl, I won't be buying anything but I do know one thing for sure: I want this nursery to grow with the little one so that we won't have to constantly paint or redecorate it. Although knowing me, it'll probably change in a few years anyways. But for the sake of Steve's sanity, at this point I'm sticking to the idea of keeping it somewhat adult-friendly. I also know that I definitely want the words 'polished' and 'modern' to shine through when you walk into the room. Other than that, all ideas are fair game.

Below are some images I've found for both girls' and boys' nurseries that really spoke to me. I've jotted a few notes down for a some of them to explain myself since, for a few of them, I like a certain element of the room but not necessarily the whole package. Which are your favorites?

For a Little Girl

Kids Kingdom
That striped chair is absolute perfection.

Sara Gilbane Interiors
Loving it all.

Project Nursery
The aqua wall color, modern crib, and fun yellow rug are what I really dig about this room.

Design Chic
Um, what's not to love about this room??

Apartment Therapy
I like the idea of using a 'greige' wall color and then adding color through accessories.

Kristin Eldridge
I never would've thought to use these colors in a nursery, but I LOVE this room.

Decorpad
A wallpapered statement wall is definitely a possibility as long as it's one of those adhesive wallpapers.

Nurseryworks
OMG, I NEED either the crib or the dresser.

Decorpad
How sweet are the polka dots in the crib bedding?

For a Little Boy

Chic & Cheap Nursery
The DIY dots on the walls are another viable possibility for a boy's room.

Pinterest
The color scheme used in this room is so calming - something that I want to achieve.

Color Chats
Horizontal stripes seem so perfect for a boy's room, don't they?

Country Living
What I love about this image are the colors - definite color scheme possibility.

Simplicity Photography
The use of a bold wall color with white and gray accents are another great example to follow.

Pinterest
The detail on the dresser really adds such sophistication to a nursery.

Little Green Notebook
This is such a perfect dresser for a boy's room. Must find one like it...

The Roof Over My Head
What I love about this room is the window treatments. So polished and simple.

I've Got a Big (or Rather Little) Secret to Share

2011-11-21T10:43:00.001-05:00

Lisa Chow via Pinterest
There's been a rather big secret I've been keeping from all of you. I know, I really shouldn't have kept it to myself for this long, but you'll understand why I did: Stephen and I are expecting our first child!

Inslee via Ruche
I so badly wanted to share this announcement much earlier, but I told myself that I would wait until we were safely into the second trimester before sharing the news with the world. In a few weeks we'll know the sex of the baby, but I just couldn't wait til then to tell you all the good news. We cannot believe that we've been blessed with a baby. It was not something that we had planned, but we are overjoyed and cannot wait til next Spring. The due date is May 2, 2012 and I am seriously counting down until then. And trust me, I have been counting down ever since we found out the news.

I had an extremely rough first trimester, since I pretty much experienced every single symptom in the book. I hinted at this in earlier posts, but this is the reason why I've created so few posts since I quit my job. Between the nausea, fatigue, and heartburn, I felt like all I could do in the first trimester was lie down on either the couch or the bed. Thankfully, I'm feeling much better now. While I have not yet woken up feeling like I could conquer the world (I've been told this happens sometime in the 2nd trimester), I'm hopeful that it will happen very soon.

And yes, I've been busily scouring the web for nursery ideas, but I'm waiting until we find out the sex of the baby to make any final decisions and purchases. Not that I'm not a fan of unisex nurseries and baby decor, but let's just say that if I knew we were to have a girl, I'd really want to make the nursery somewhat girly for her. And similarly if we were to have a boy, I'd want to use some boy-oriented decor items in the nursery.

We'll be transforming my office into the nursery (I know! I feel like I'm constantly changing that room). So now we have the big question: what room will we use as the home office? Stephen definitely needs to have his own space since he's always on conference calls and cannot be disturbed. And although that's never stopped Emma from barking at our neighbors throughout the day, I think a baby might just be a tad more distracting. We've got some ideas floating around with what to do for a home office, but we'll need to hire a contractor to get some quotes. Until then, I'll share some nursery ideas I've been collecting in tomorrow's post. Happy Monday everyone!

*Shabby Apple Jewelry Giveaway Update: I know that I said I would announce the winner of the Shabby Apple Jewelry Giveaway today, but I've decided to extend the deadline to this Friday (give more of you a chance to win). Thank you to the folks that have entered so far!!! Don't forget to hurry to enter for your chance to win that gorgeous feather necklace!

DIY Gift Tags for the Holidays

2011-11-17T11:53:00.001-05:00

Jill Means for One Charming Party via Gifted Magazine
We've been having some rainy weather in Maryland the past couple of days, and I have to tell you that it's making me so unmotivated. I think the only thing that'll make me feel cheery and upbeat is if I post on something about the holidays. And there is nothing better than free stuff to make me smile. Plus, I think we could all use something free and fabulous once in a while, especially during the holidays, right?

I scoured the internet and found these great free gift tags that I think you'll like. I know these will be my go-to's unless I find some more between now and Christmas. Oh, and don't forget these gift tags from last year! And one more thing, don't forget to enter my Shabby Apple giveaway! It ends tomorrow!

Julia Rothman viaDesign Sponge

Blush Printables

Creature Comforts

Domestifluff via Gifted Magazine

Claire Dalgliesh via Gifted Magazine
Must use the polka dotted tag!

Love Mae via Gifted Magazine
Not sure how I feel about the birds having antlers, but I love the little tags below them!

Shabby Apple Jewelry Giveaway (Closed)

2011-11-14T09:36:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday everyone! I've got a little treat for you this Monday. I was asked by Shabby Apple, an absolutely lovely fashion company, to host a jewelry giveaway. Well, to say that I was thrilled is a bit of an understatement. I was over-the-moon excited to host this giveaway, especially since I know all of you are fashion mavens. They offer a gorgeous array of vintage jewelry, vintage-inspired dresses, adorable children's apparel, stylish maternity wear, and unique home accessories.

The piece of jewelry that you can get a chance to win is the charmingly versatile Gold Feather Necklace. All you have to do is "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook and then let me know that you did by leaving a Comment in the Comment box below on this post. You'll not only be entered to win this gold feather necklace, but you will also be notified of any special promotions and exclusive discounts that Shabby Apple offers. But the treat doesn't stop there.

The Giveaway - Gold Feather Necklace
They are also offering a 10% discount with the use of this coupon code: PROPERHUNT10OFF. But this discount doesn't last forever, just for 30 days so hurry to their site to use it! So without further ado, please check out their site and see all of the goodies that they offer. Don't forget to "Like" their Facebook page and let me know that you did in a comment. Enjoy and best of luck to all!

*You must have a US shipping address to enter, and there will be no exchanges for the winning piece of jewelry.

Holiday Wish List 2011 Part I

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000-05:00

{1) Gold/white Herringbone Lucite Tray, 2) Coral Tall Chevron Pillow, 3) Navy Fleur Chinoise Pillow, 4) Pommery Rose Extra Dry Pink Pop Champagne, 5) Elephant Winter Series, 6) Medium Green Leopard Tray, 7) Set of Gold Turtle Salt & Pepper Shakers, and 8) Orange Pink and White Bamboo Pens.}
Ever since November 1st, we've been playing Christmas music in our house. You might think that it is a tad too early to start listening to Christmas music, but not us. We absolutely LOVE Christmas and basically feel that it is really never too early to start celebrating! The same goes with thinking about gift giving. Every year we try really hard to get a jump on thinking about what we'll be giving to our family and friends for Christmas. And as much as I'd like to say it is because of truly altruistic intentions, it is actually because we want to get the best deals possible. And isn't the saying true - the early bird gets the worm?

These are a few of my favorite things that I'd love to find underneath the Christmas tree. Well, maybe not #6 & #7 since those are a tad too expensive, but I just had to add them since they were so unique.

Thanksgiving With All The Trimmings

2011-11-09T13:19:00.001-05:00

Eddie Ross via Lonnymag
I have so much to be thankful for this year. I have a loving family, great friends, good health, and that's all a girl really needs in life. But this year especially, I am thankful for my biggest wish coming true (thank you to my hubby for that~). I was able to quit my day job so that I could focus all my time on Proper Hunt, although I haven't devoted all of my time to it just yet (I'll explain why in a later post, promise!). I seriously have the best husband in the world who believes in me and provides unlimited amounts of support (did you know he edits every single post I write?). So this year, I am most thankful for my husband and the love he showers me with every single day.

This year, we've decided to have Thanksgiving dinner at my parents' house and we are super excited about it. It's funny, even though I haven't lived at my parents' house in a very long time, it always feels like home to me. Sometimes more so than my own house. Strange isn't it? But that's why I'm excited, because my whole family will be together in the place that my parents have made home for all of us. Plus, Emma will be with Sammy, my parent's mini poodle (she loves chasing him and bossing him around), and it makes me happy to see her having such fun with her 'brother.'

In hopes of having the best Thanksgiving to date, I've started a bit early with gathering images that'll help give me an idea of how to decorate the dining table and other places around the house. As you can see below, I'm all over the place as far as what I like, so please help a girl out and let me know what your favorite image is below. This year I'm leaning towards simplicity, which is rather rare for me, but sometimes what they say is true - that less can be more.

Sunday in Bed

Censational Girl via Pinterest

HGTV

Sweet Something Designs

100 Layer Cake

SHELTER

La Dolfina

Erica Ann Photography via The Plunge Project

Better Homes and Gardens

Kara's Party Ideas

Glamorously Grounded

2011-11-07T11:08:00.001-05:00

Adore Magazine
How is it that we're already in the 2nd week of November? Sometimes I feel like time drags on, but then when I realize what day it is, it's like time just flew by without me even realizing it. I promise I will get to Thanksgiving and all of its trimmings soon, but before I do I just had to share with you these images from Adore Magazine. I saw them on Pinterest and immediately fell head-over-heels-in-love with everything about this space. So much so that I'm thinking that when it comes time to redo my home office, this is how I want it to look. I mean, how gorgeous is this room?? Absolutely glamorous and girlie, yet the black & white color scheme really keeps it from getting too frilly and frou-frou.

Adore Magazine

Making Some Room

2011-11-04T13:08:00.000-04:00

Black & White Dotted Lamp Shade for $30Dimensions: 9 11/16" Tall, 29 1/4" Diameter at the bottom, and 22" Diameter at the top.

Sorry that it took so long to get this post up, but I had a rather late morning and it took me a bit longer than I had expected to take all of these photos. And I know, I know. You're probably asking yourself as you scroll to view all these photos, how can you let all of this go?? I'll tell you how. Because although I love all of these pieces, they sadly don't work with the decor scheme I've got going on in the house. And as much as I'd love to keep everything, I'm afraid Steve is about to have a mental break down if I don't clear some of these beautiful pieces out. Granted, the Crate and Barrel trunk and Pottery Barn rug were more of his choosing, but still, they're taking up room in an already crowded space.

But this is where it works out for you, cause now you have a chance to score some great finds for a fraction of the cost I that paid. If you want to see more photos, please don't hesitate to ask. I would be more than happy to send you some. I just didn't want to have the world's longest post with photos of every single detail. If you are interested in any of these pieces, please contact me at ProperHunt@gmail.com.

Unfortunately, I cannot ship these items since they're either too big or too delicate (I don't want to increase the prices just to accommodate for shipping costs), so those of you who are local will be able to score these deals.

3 Gold Tables for $40Dimension for the Center Table: 20" Tall X 24" Length X 14" Width
Dimension for the 2 Side Tables: 20" Tall X 14" Width X 12 1/4" Rounded Length

Red Trim French Lamp Shade for $24Dimensions: 7" Tall, 38 1/4" Diameter at the bottom, and 13 1/2" Diameter at the top.

Large Ornate Gold Mirror for $50
Dimensions: 30" Width X 42" Length

Green/Blue Square Mirror for $15 - SOLDDimensions: 20" Square

Anthropologie-like Orange Lamp Shade for $35Dimensions: 9 1/2" Tall, 47 1/2" Diameter at the bottom, and 39" Diameter at the top.

Pottery Barn Eva Persian-style 5x8 rug for $125 - SOLD
Since we reconfigured our living room and purchased a larger area rug, we're letting this beauty go. In the year we've used it, we've never had a stain or tear on it. It's in near perfect condition.

Crate and Barrel Wooden Trunk for $180 - SOLD

Dimensions: 15 1/2" Tall X 43 1/2" Length X 24" Width. Height of the feet at 2 1/2" and are removable.

This is a piece that combines form and function. It worked as a great coffee table for us as well as a place to house our wine and other items.

Cleaning House

2011-11-03T11:23:00.000-04:00

Re-nest
I think you all know how much I love collecting furniture and home accessories even if I don't need them. Well, because I have a bit of a shopping problem, the house and garage have now turned into my own personal storage space against Steve's ardent wish. He's one lucky guy because I am about to make his wish come true by unloading some of the pieces that I've rather neglected to give some attention to. I figure Craigslist is the way to go since I use it all the time, but before I post anything on Craigslist, I figured I'd give you all a chance to snag some finds before they get out to the public. Of course some of the pieces will be too large to ship so only local readers will get a chance to acquire them. I'll put up another post with photos and descriptions later today if not tomorrow morning so stay tuned!

Books in the Mail

2011-11-01T09:50:00.000-04:00

The Perfectly Imperfect Home by Deborah Needleman
LOVE the cover of this book. I'm sure I'll like what's inside too.
Don't you just love getting things in the mail? And I don't mean the bills, I mean the fun stuff like magazines, books, clothes, or decor items. That's what I get excited about. Somehow this week, I've gotten really lucky. Yesterday was a package from J.Crew and today will be books that I've been dying to get my hands on.

One of the books just came out today, and I had to have it ASAP, so I preordered it like a good patron. It's none other than Deborah Needleman's highly anticipated book, The Perfectly Imperfect Home. If you didn't know, Deborah was the Editor-in-Chief of the beloved home magazine, Domino. I know if there is anyone who should write a book about the home, it should be her. The other is Design Sponge at Home by a home design blogger who knows her stuff, Grace Bonney, the creator of the ever-popular blog Design Sponge.

I'll be UPS tracking these books like a hawk, and the minute I get my hands on them, I will be poring over them on my couch with a cup of tea. And if I'm really lucky today, maybe Emma will join me on the couch?

*To leave a Comment, please click on the "Comments" link below.

Trick Or Treating Time!

2011-10-31T18:50:00.000-04:00

Sorry that took so long! I finally finished the bats and my pumpkin and now it's time to greet trick-or-treaters! Have a safe and fun Halloween everyone!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T11:44:00.000-04:00

Watch out, there's a new sheriff in town.
Happy Halloween everyone! It's a gorgeous Fall day and I am just finishing up some last minute Halloween decorations before the trick-or-treaters start on their candy quest.

Country Living
The first decoration that I'm working on are these cool felt bats that'll go on our front door. Steve doesn't want me to use duct tape to stick the bats on our door so I need to figure out another solution to get them to stay on the door without getting blown away...

Martha Stewart
Then I've got to carve our pumpkin, or rather carve and drill our pumpkin. Sounds strange saying I'm going to drill it but if you look at the photo above, you'll know why I want to do that. How cool do those pumpkins look?? Wish me luck tackling these tasks! I'll be back later today!

I'm Green With Envy

2011-10-27T13:02:00.002-04:00

{Photo Credit: 1) Heather in a candy shop via this time tomorrow, 2) Anthropologie, 3) Habitually Chic, 4) Nordstrom, and 5) Elle}
I know that the image above is a bit of a departure from what you normally see on this blog, but I just couldn't help myself today. I've fallen madly in love with the color green this season, and not just in fashion but also in interior decor. What's not to love about the elegantly smoldering, yet positively refreshing color, green. There's also something commanding about it to, like it demands attention. And you know me, I'm all about making a statement whenever possible. Life's too short not to have something that stands out whether it's on your body or in your home.

I thought it was only fitting to show you how closely linked fashion and interiors are through the use of the color green. Green can go with a multitude of colors and textures. What other vibrant color goes with white, black, gold, blue, pink, yellow, purple, animal print...the list goes on. See my point? You just gotta love it for your wardrobe and your home. Below you will find interiors that either use the color green as accents, or as the main focus of the space. Either way, I am loving it and only want to see more of this seductively modern color.

small shop studio

Lonnymag

Marcus Design

You Paid More Than Me

Palmer Weiss via Bryn Alexandra

erin ever after via Pinterest
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Bedside Table Manners

2011-10-25T11:41:00.000-04:00

Tobi Fairley via Traditional HomeI dare not show you my bedside table. It's an absolute junkyard of jewelry and magazines, topped off with a picture frame or two and a bedside lamp. In other words, its a complete mess at the moment and I just cannot bare to share it with the public. I'm hoping though, that one day I'll get my act together and properly organize the table so that it never becomes a junkyard again.

Like I told you about my office/desk situation, I've learned that it helps to look at images of polished and functional spaces to motivate me to address my own messy spaces. Does that make any sense? Maybe it's cause when I see that someone else has got it together, I think to myself that I, too, can achieve the goal of having a beautiful space. The images below of some bedside tables are inspiring and truly lovely. I'm especially digging Emily Ruddo's bedside table. Which one's your favorite?

Creative Ruts

Apartment Therapy

traditional bedroom design by los angeles interior designer Emily Ruddo

Apartment Therapy

Erin Valencich via HGTV

styleathome.com via delight by design

Caitlin Wilson Design
*To leave a Comment, please click on the "Comments" link below.

New Find: Shop Furbish

2011-10-20T15:59:00.000-04:00

Stepping Out Side Table
It's been a busy week for me. I've been preparing for my best friend's bridal shower (tomorrow!) and I haven't had much time to think about anything else except desserts and rsvps so please forgive me for being somewhat absent from writing. Even with all of the bridal shower preparations, I managed to discover another shop that I think you will definitely like. Shop Furbish is full of colorful, modern furnishings as well as fashion accessories, so check their site out when you get a chance. In the meantime, check out my picks below from their shop. I want it all!

Spotted Porcelain Tray

Crosstown Pink Fabric
Pricey but I am loving the watercolor effect.

Tortoise Shell Highball Glasses

Big City Chandelier

Pink Greek Key Cocktail Napkins
*To leave a Comment, please click on the "Comments" link below.

I See A White Desk In My Future...

2011-10-12T12:28:00.002-04:00

Diane Bergeron
I have been a real mess-maker in my office lately and it's finally come to the point where I can't take it anymore. My desk is really out-of-control. It's covered with magazines, picture frames, and other items that are keeping it from being clean and tidy. Not only does the mess on my desk make me want to avoid my office, I honestly don't even like the color of my desk anymore! Don't get me wrong, its a great desk. It's just that the color is a tad dark for the space. I need something light and airy in here and I'm thinking a white desk just might be the item I need. Maybe, just maybe, it'll help keep my desk clean in the future?

Below are a few examples of spaces with lovely white desks that have been styled in super-chic ways. The desk tops are so organized and the spaces themselves are both stylish and functional. Hmm...this gets me thinking of a redo but I can just see Steve rolling his eyes at the mere mention of a redo.

Lonnymag

Elizabeth Caan

Lauren Conrad

Pink Chrome Tufted Chair

Round Back Hide Chair

I'll take either one!

Jacqui Console/Desk

White Bone and Dark Horn Desk

So pricey but SO perfect.

Josephine Desk
This just might be my next desk. I'll add hardware to the drawer to make it my own. Now, I have just got to find the right desk chair.

A Step-by-Step Guide: My Pumpkin Wreath

2011-10-10T11:21:00.001-04:00

You will definitely want pliers for this project. I ended up using Steve's Leatherman for the job.
As promised, I finished working on my Halloween DIY Pumpkin Wreath over the weekend and boy am I glad it's done! Don't get me wrong, it looks fantastic, better than I had expected. But it was a lot harder than I had anticipated. It's a great DIY project to work on, but I have a few disclaimers before you get started.

First off, let me be honest. This project was not cheap. In total, it cost me $54. Let me break it down a bit for you. The little pumpkins alone cost $0.99 each and I needed 24 to create the wreath, so there's $24 spent right there. Then the cost of the plastic foam wreath, florist pins, florist wire, and sheet moss totaled to $30. Thankfully I had a metal skewer (from the grill) so I used that instead of buying a nail/ice pick to puncture the mini pumpkins.

I know that $54 isn't a ghastly amount to spend on seasonal decorations, especially if you can use them every year. But because this wreath uses fresh pumpkins, it will only last til the end of Halloween this year, which makes it seem a bit pricey for a one-time use kind of thing. Overall though, this is a great DIY project since the final product is a one-of-a-kind wreath (haven't seen anything like this anywhere yet).

Steps to follow:

First, you will want to use your metal skewers or nail/ice pick to puncture a hole from one side of the pumpkin to the other (parallel to the bottom on the base of the pumpkin). This will allow for you to thread your florist wire (I used a 18" long @ 16 gauge wire) through the hole so you can wrap the pumpkin around the plastic foam wreath (see above image).

After you've wrapped your pumpkin tightly around the wreath, trim the excess florist wire and puncture it through the pumpkin into the wreath so that the pumpkin is securely attached to the wreath. Yes, I wore dishwashing gloves to give me a better grip on the pumpkins.

Took me about 45mins-1hr to get this far but I had the radio blasting so time flew.

I'm at the 2 hour mark at this point and I'm feeling good since the wreath is really starting to take shape. I will say this though, my finger tips are hurting at this point.

Yay! The pumpkin part of the wreath is complete. I can start adding the sheet moss to the exposed areas of the wreath.

There were several kinds of moss to choose from at Michaels, but I chose this one because of the vibrant green color.

I used the florist pins to secure the moss to the wreath.
Yes, you will be able to see the florist pins once you've secured the moss, but I tried to cover it up by moving the moss over it a little bit.

Tada! I used some thicker florist wire to secure it to the hook on our front door.

The front door area is almost complete with our Halloween decorations. I'll be working on another DIY project to finish it all up, but more on that later! What do you guys think?

Get In The Mood For Halloween

2011-10-07T14:07:00.000-04:00

Martha Stewart
How great is today's weather?? I'm sure I've said this before, but for some reason when the weather is gorgeous (blue skies, crisp air, sun shining), I have more energy and feel more motivated to do things. Today is no exception. We have company coming over for dinner tonight and I just want to get our house looking as good as can be. You know what I mean -- it seems that the only time I really get in a cleaning mood is when company comes over. Steve always jokes that we should have people come over all the time so that I clean more often. Har har.

Anywho, I am still working on the Halloween DIY pumpkin wreath project that I shared with you all the other day. It turns out that Steve wants to come with me to pick up the mini pumpkins because he wants to pick up some mums too. Yes, I know I had said we were going to get mums last weekend but the weather was so terrible that we decided to wait it out for better weather. So it looks like I'll have to wait til tomorrow to pick up the mini pumpkins and get started on actually making the wreath. But I promise to get it finished by the end of the weekend!

I'm sure those of you who follow me on Pinterest have already seen most of the images below, but for those of you who haven't seen these yet, I sure hope they get you in the mood for Halloween.

Silhouette Pumpkin

Witch's Brook Place Card Holder

Better Homes and Gardens

Martha Stewart

All Things Simple

House O'Lantern
Definitely going to try my hand at this one for one of our windows.

Better Homes and Gardens

Country Living
Another DIY project that I'm going to take a stab at.

Country Living

Country Living
If I had a real fireplace, I would totally decorate it this way.

DIY of the Day: Pumpkin Wreath

2011-10-05T11:22:00.000-04:00

Southern Living Pumpkin Wreath Instructions
I've got a ton of errands to do today (dishes, cleaning my mess off the dining table, head to the post office, and make dinner), but I'm really hoping I can squeeze in some DIY time to work on a great Halloween decorating project. Steve and I have really gotten into the Halloween spirit this year and have decided to decorate the house (inside and out) to the best of our abilities. The first project to help us get into the Halloween spirit is this pumpkin wreath. I've got a few more ideas for our front door/stoop, but for now I think this pumpkin wreath will keep me busy. What are you all doing to get into the Halloween spirit?

Bulletin Board: Liz Caan

2011-10-04T14:56:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, I received an email from Ivy and Piper, one of my favorite online magazines from down under, with their 1st birthday issue. I immediately devoured it and discovered yet another designer that loves color and pattern. The online magazine featured Liz Caan's Georgian Colonial Massachusetts home and I instantly fell in love with her style. The inside of her home is quite different from what you would think it would be based on the facade of the house, but what a fantastically vibrant and whimsical interior to surprise you with!

Check out the images of her home and design studio below!

A chic & fun, yet functional mudroom - the kind I like!

I'm a big fan of having 2 stools underneath a table.

A vibrant tablescape is so much more interesting and fun.

The tufted banquette seating in this kitchen nook is absolute perfection.

I only wish my desk/office area looked this good...

{Photo Credit: Liz Caan Interiors}

Weekend Plans: Birthdays & Pumpkins

2011-09-30T15:11:00.001-04:00

Stephen & Emma
I hadn't planned on today being a chore-day, but somehow it turned into that. Thankfully, I'm all done with the vacuuming and the dishes, cause now I can start getting excited about this weekend. To start, tomorrow is my little Emma's 6th birthday! Can't believe she's already 6. She was such a tiny little thing the day we brought her home (I'd say at most 3lbs?) and now she's this healthy 10.5lbs girl.

Flickr
And since tomorrow is the 1st day of October, our little family is going to head out to get some pumpkins and mums to dress up our front stoop. I can't wait - I absolutely love Fall! Happy Friday everyone!

More Affordable Artwork

2011-09-29T12:22:00.000-04:00

Tulips
One of the first things I do everyday is check out Facebook to see if there is anything new and interesting that my favorite retailers might've have shared. This morning was no exception. I noticed that Kate Spade had posted something on things they love, so naturally I clicked on the link provided. Well, I won't bore you with how I got there, but I ended up on this site, Wayne Pate. If you're looking for artwork that is rather unique and a bit hipster, then this site is just for you. I love all of the art that is sold on this site, but the ones below really caught my eye. Some of these prints are so whimsical that they would make great nursery artwork too.

London

Rising of the Setting Sun

Teapots

Flock Red/White

Brooklyn

Central Park by Bella Foster

Waterworks, My Kind of Eye Candy

2011-09-28T14:19:00.000-04:00

Sarah Richardson
When it comes to tile design, I have a LOT to learn. But do you know who has absolutely mastered it? Sarah Richardson. I know I've told you all how much I admire her, but seriously, just check out any of her shows that involve a bathroom renovation (see: Design Inc, Sarah 101, or Sarah's House). It will inevitably involve some type of tile design, which I guarantee will blow you away. It takes major vision to know which tiles to choose, what kind of design you want, and then to 'see' it before it's even installed. Sarah has that vision.

Anywho, I came across the Waterworks site the other day and fell in love with many of the tiles that they have. I thought to myself - "If I had the money to redo our master bathroom, I'd definitely use these surfaces by Waterworks!" I would also use Sarah's tile designs as inspiration since they're classic but with a slight twist. I pulled a few of the surfaces that caught my eye and reminded me of the inspired designs that Sarah has shared on her shows. What do you all think?

Signet Parquet Solid Mosaic

Aqualinea Pisces Mosaic

Parramore Herringbone Mosaic

Parramore Aquarius Mosaic

Parramore Hexagon with Flower Motif

Studio Stone Avenue Border

Aqualinea Spool Border

Big Changes 'A Coming

2011-09-26T13:56:00.001-04:00

Pinterest
I've got some really excited news to share with you, that until today I've somehow managed to keep to myself. Today is the first day that I am now able to work on my blog full-time! How great is that? Last Friday was my last day at my day job, a job that I've had for 5+ years, and boy was it surreal and sad to say goodbye to friends and colleagues. BUT, I will say that I woke up today feeling absolutely elated knowing that I'd be able to devote all my time to something that I am extremely passionate about.

With the change of transitioning from a 9am-5pm job to working on Proper Hunt full-time, also comes the change of the season. Fall is hands down my favorite season. There are so many reasons why I adore Fall. Let me count the ways: great hair weather, the fashion, the food (I love me some sweet potato pie!), getting cozy by the fire, and the vividly colorful changing of the leaves. Below are some images that remind me of why I love Fall so much, I hope they bring you into the Fall spirit too!

Country Living
The way to enjoy the Fall weather - a wood fire and a comfy burnt orange throw to keep you extra cozy.

French Garden House

Eyes On Sparrow
Love that mums come in a variety of gorgeously intense colors - we need to go pick some up!

Pinterest
Amazing how a few autumn-colored pillows give that cozy Fall vibe.

Better Homes and Gardens
Just goes to show that you can be casual and elegant at the same time with your Fall table setting.

Rustic Wedding Chic
One of my favorite drinks during the Fall season.

Better Homes and Gardens
An absolutely perfect autumnal entrance.

Better Homes and Gardens
This is the time of year when I start making my fruit tarts and crisps. So yummy!

Habitually Chic

Chic Jewelry Storage Found at Thrift Stores & Flea Markets

2011-09-14T18:00:00.000-04:00

Martha Stewart
I just came across this image on Pinterest and thought, what a great idea! I've picked up so many little vintage dishes from thrift stores and flea markets that are just stored away, hidden in cabinets, but this is a great way for me to store my jewelry AND use my dishes.

Funny thing is, I did use my gorgeously ornate dishes to display my vintage jewelry at both of my trunk shows, but never thought to use it as full-time storage for my jewelry.

Now, the hard part will be cleaning out my vanity drawers to get this started...

I've Been Feeling Sick Lately

2011-09-13T15:16:00.000-04:00

So sorry for such a late post, but I got sick this past weekend and of course that just threw all my plans for the bathroom out the window. I did manage to buy most of the accessories, but I was hoping to get the bathroom painted at the very least. That clearly did not happen since I was just feeling so out of it and just had to go home and rest. I'm feeling a little better today, but still not my 100% self. Fingers crossed that I feel better by tomorrow.

Hope you all had a great weekend! I'll be back tomorrow with some fun stuff!

{Photo Credit: GoogliEyes}

Labor Day Celebrations and Harry Potter

2011-09-09T16:32:00.000-04:00

Me and my best friend on the best day of my life. Best wedding cake ever too.
I know, I know. I have been MIA yet again, but this time I have a really good reason. This past Labor Day weekend, Steve and I celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary (how time flies!) and I was just too caught up in celebrating to get my tush to the computer. Nothing like a long weekend to really celebrate.

Caroline Hadilaksono
Getting back to reality has been hard, especially after such a lovely, long weekend. I know that a long time ago, I was once eager with anticipation of what the new school year would bring after Labor Day, but those days are long gone now that I've "grown up." With school having recently started for so many kids, I thought it would be good to share these really neat Harry Potter posters by Caroline Hadilaksono. Just because you have watched all the movies and read all of the books doesn't mean you still can't enjoy some Harry Potter paraphernalia. If I had a kid, you had better believe I'd be hanging these posters in their room.

I'll be working on my parents' 2nd bathroom tomorrow so I'll be sure to show you some of the progress on Monday. Happy Friday!

It's Personal...Stationery

2011-09-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

Paris & Vintage Ribbon
Perfection.
I feel like people only give thought to personalized stationery when they receive someone else's and think, "oh gosh I wish I had my own personalized stationery." I know I am that way because I don't have my own set...yet.

The other day, my girlfriend Erica reached out to me asking if I knew where she could get some good personalized stationery. I immediately thought of Etsy (I love that site), so I recommended that she check it out until I gather some specific examples for her. Erica is a very creative person who also appreciates the classics, so I knew I would have to find some examples that had the right balance between the two characteristics. I think I found some that fit the bill. What do you think?

Letterpress Calligraphy

Cocodot

Twine Personalized Stationery

Custom Silhouette Stationery

Women's Personalized Stationery
Love the stilettos!

Cocodot

Vintage Globe

Top Hat Personalized Stationery

Initial Monogram Stationery

Letterpress for a Couple

Paris + From Stripes to Chevrons

Letterpress postage stamp cards
This was too clever to leave out.

Wishing Myself Here

2011-08-30T14:26:00.001-04:00

Pinterest
I'm having one of those days where I wish I was in this absolutely gorgeous Parisian apartment instead of where I really am. It just looks like a place where life is easy and good. Did I mention easy?

Parents' Second Full Bathroom Design Board

2011-08-27T12:05:00.002-04:00

These are the 4 colors that I've chosen to test out first. Which do you prefer?
I'm finally able to work on another room at my parents' house, the 2nd full bathroom, and I'm really excited about giving it a new look. I was going to start the painting process today, but because of Hurricane Irene's impending arrival, I've had to postpone it for another weekend. Maybe I'll just employ one of my brother's to do the painting...now that's a thought.

The full bathroom that's on my parents' second floor has been my brothers' primary bathroom and by the looks of it, you can tell that boys are the primary occupants. But that's about to change. Since the recently re-done guest room is right next to the bathroom, the bathroom definitely needs to be given an updated look. Unfortunately, I don't have a photo of the bathroom in it's current state, but I promise to get one before I start working on it. Until then, I'll try to describe it as best I can so you can understand why I chose what I chose in the design board.

First and foremost, this bathroom has NO windows. It is an interior room and gets no natural light so lighting will be key. Also, my parents have given me a strict budget, so I won't be able to switch out the vanity/sink or the tub. And that definitely means no re-tiling or gutting of anything. Pretty much, I have to take what's there and make it look as pretty as possible. It'll definitely be a challenge seeing as how the vanity is a light maple wood and the tub & vanity are a light creamy beige - not exactly my choice colors for a bathroom. But I think the colors I've chosen in the design board will balance out the light warm tones in the vanity/sink/tub. And because I've chosen some really graphic prints, I'm hoping that they will distract the eye from the permanent colors of the vanity/sink/tub. What do you think?

{Resources: 1) Striped Shower Curtain, 2) Wall Art, 3) Thomas O'Brien Wastebasket, 4) Dollante Collection Light Fixture, 5) Round Mirror, 6) Bathroom Accessories, and 7) Trellis Bath Mat. Paint by Martha Stewart}

Notice Anything Different?

2011-08-21T20:37:00.002-04:00

Proper Hunt just got a fabulous redesign! And all thanks go to Jenna from QA Designs! She worked with me tirelessly (I was a bit demanding and indecisive) and she was absolutely darling throughout the whole process. I first learned about her when she had revamped Kirsten's blog (6th Street Design School). Seeing her work, I knew immediately that Jenna would be the right designer to revamp my blog.

My taste for interiors has evolved and so have my choices in fashion and graphic design. So, I figured it was time that Proper Hunt got a new look too. Lately, I've been drawn towards modern prints and colors - so for my blog, I really wanted to go for a modern & fun look with just the right amount of boldness added for good measure. Jenna absolutely took my idea, ran with it, and designed something that I never could've dreamed. Thank you Jenna!

What do you all think about it? I'm curious to hear your thoughts...

A Few of My Favorite Fabrics

2011-08-17T13:30:00.003-04:00

Ever since we changed up our living room setup, I've had throw pillows on my mind. I want the fabrics that I pick out for the pillows to really pop against the seating we have and to freshen up the space a bit. So far, I've ordered a few fabric swatches of prints and patterns that I am really drawn towards (some for the throw pillows, some for other projects that I have in mind) and, I have to thank Kirsten from 6th Street Design School because she shared her favorite online stores for fabrics and they have quickly become my favorites as well.

The above and below photos show the swatches that I picked up from Lewis & Sheron Textiles. I'm definitely going to mix and match colors and patterns/prints for the living room and thought these were some great options. I really love the Indigo Links, but it's turning out that I want to use it for another project that's been somewhat on the back-burner. I think it'd be great as slip-covers for our counter stools in the kitchen instead of fabric for throw pillows.

When I picked up these Henriksdal stools a while ago, I told myself that I would get them slip-covered in a fun print, but I just didn't know what fabric to use (I like so many). But I finally found one that really fits the bill! And since I'll be getting them slip-covered, it's not like I'm completely tied down to it. If I want to change it up later, I can always get another slip-cover made. That's the beauty of slip-covers!

Such a tough decision since I like them all!

Henriksdal Counter Stool
We've got two of these counter stools and as much as I like them in the white slipcover, I'm ready to add some more visual interest to the kitchen.

Indigo Link
After much searching, I think this is the fabric I want to go with for getting new slipcovers made. What do you guys think?

I specifically chose the Indigo Link one since it would stand out against the yellow/green walls and has the same color as the drapes.
{Fabrics in 1st photo from left to right: Quito, Wonderland, HL Belami, Theo, Indigo Malaga, Khandar, Matteo, Sunglo Kilburn, Indigo Link, and Fiesta Joy.}

Must Share Item: O'verlays

2011-08-15T11:15:00.000-04:00

Thank you Kathysue of Good Life of Design for sharing her latest discovery. O'verlays. They are lightweight fretwork panels that can be applied to any plain surface to give it a quick and chic update. They work with most Ikea pieces, and can be painted so you can really customize the look of your furniture.

Even though I was delighted to discover this on Kathysue's blog, I was also kicking myself for not finding this before we started on our Greek Key mini bar. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE our mini bar but it did take a few days from start to finish and if I had known about O'verlays, it might've taken us less time and energy to create something just as nice. BUT, I don't care. I'm definitely going to try to use O'verlays in a future project if I can help it. They're just too fantastic not too.

Making It Lovely

A great way to embellish a modern coffee table.

Love how 3 different types of O'verlays are used on this dresser. Creates such visual interest, and even though the designs are different from one another, they all seem to work together because of the common color, white.

Dark Blue Sofas: Bold Yet Versatile

2011-08-12T13:57:00.000-04:00

Decorpad
I'm pretty sure most of you can recognize this living room. It's none other than Carrie Bradshaw's living room in SATC 2. I know what you're thinking. This movie came out a while ago, why is she talking about this now? Because I have to explain where my obsession with dark blue sofas came from. This living room, hands down, made me obsessed with any kind of dark blue sofa. Tufted, velvet, rolled arms, squared arms, you name it, I like it, as long as it's dark blue. It literally can go with any color scheme you throw at it and it's not your boring brown or beige sofa. I'm a bit biased here too, because I am so sick of our brown sofas. Yup, that's right, we've got two and I'm ready to chuck both of them out the door.

When I first moved into my own place, I figured a dark brown couch was the safest bet in terms of decorating. And it certainly can be, but now that I've become a bit more adventurous with color, I'm ready to move away from the brown sofas and onto something a bit bolder. I'm pretty sure the next sofa we get for our living room will have to be a dark blue, velvet, tufted, squared arm sofa. Now, I just have to convince Steve. Have I convinced you with the images below? These are some of my favorite dark blue sofas, each styled quite differently from the other.

Kishani Perera

Oxford Development

Decorpad

Atmosphere Interior Design, Inc.

MMR Interiors

Rue Magazine via DecorPad

Decorpad

Ideal House via Decorpad

French Club Chairs On My Wanted List

2011-08-11T17:09:00.000-04:00

House Beautiful

I just got the new House Beautiful in the mail today and right on the cover are chairs that I need NOW. These French club chairs by Niermann Weeks are the perfect shape & scale, and of course in a fabric that I totally dig. Something about chairs that have rounded backs always gets me and these are definitely at the top of my list of wanted chairs.

I've been keeping my eyes out for vintage chairs to reupholster but still no such luck. However, and I know I mentioned this earlier, I did get that vintage settee reupholstered and it looks fantastic! I've been meaning to show you guys the settee in our new living room setup, but I kind of want to wait til I have the perfect pillows before photographing anything. But here's a sneak peak of the settee - sorry about the quality of the photo!

New Items at Shop Proper Hunt!

2011-08-08T14:56:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a great weekend. I definitely did. The Great Gatsby gang got together for a very special dinner party to celebrate birthdays (yay Steve and John!) and a recent engagement (congrats LWs & David!) and we definitely celebrated in true Great Gatsby style. It was full of amazingly yummy food, delicious drinks/cocktails, and fun times with great friends.

As a way to start your week off right, check out the new items I've added to Shop Proper Hunt. I would especially advise you to check out the Vintage Vera Neumann placemats - such a fantastic find!

{Photo Credit: Christina Johnston}

I Adore Caitlin McGauley's Works

2011-08-05T13:55:00.000-04:00

Living Room
You might recall that this past Christmas my husband gave to me as a gift Kate Spade books on Style, Manner, and Occassions. And you'll remember that I created some DIY wall art from the illustrations in the books since I loved them so much. Thanks to the XIVth chair, I stumbled upon the website of Caitlin McGauley, who is the illustrator behind the Kate Spade books. Seeing her illustrations makes me so happy and I am so excited that I found her website! She also sells her prints online so go check them out! I'm pretty sure I'll have to get 1 or 2 prints for my office, although I would absolutely DIE if I could get some custom prints from her...

Happy Friday everyone!

p.s. We just picked up the reupholstered settee that I dropped off a while ago and it looks stunning! I'll have pics up as soon as I style it a bit.

Necklaces

{All images by Caitlin McGauley}

My Weekend Deals

2011-08-02T06:55:00.000-04:00

Our new Carly Chair in our living room - the cobalt blue frame goes perfectly with our secretary!
Remember how I told you guys that I was in search of armchairs for our newly configured living room? Well, I was hoping to score some great vintage chairs and reupholster them, but I was having trouble finding chairs in the right shape at the right price point. Luckily for us, this weekend we found the perfect chair for a great deal at Crate and Barrel. We literally just went in with the notion of checking out their new tufted sofa (another obsession of mine: tufted sofas) and while I was searching for it, Steve made a beeline for the sale section.

After realizing I was wrong in thinking that they had a new tufted sofa (it's Pottery Barn that has a new tufted one), I too made a beeline for the sale section. And lo and behold, a chair that I had been secretly eyeing for months was sitting right there. We checked the price and couldn't believe it. The sale price was 40% lower than the original price, but then they had taken an additional 20% off the lowest marked price! Knowing it was a deal we could not pass up, we got it right there and then.

*They also had the Carly Chair with Anjou Yellow Frame in the sale section, so if you're interested I say hurry on over to the Annapolis Crate and Barrel store.

Here it is sitting perfectly in our living room. I'll have more photos of our living room once we get one more armchair and a few more side tables.

Lulu Dekwiatkowski Black Bamboo Wallpaper (Sold out)
I also picked up this wallpaper during Saturday's Tastemaker Tag Sale of Lulu Dekwiatkowski at One Kings Lane. Any bamboo print done in black & white is A-OK in my book. I thought this wallpaper would make a great backsplash in our kitchen. We've been procrastinating with adding a backsplash, so hopefully this wallpaper will be the kick-in-the-pants we need to get that project going. Fingers crossed that we don't keep procrastinating even after the wallpaper arrives.

Bulletin Board: Palmer Weiss

2011-08-01T11:42:00.003-04:00

The other day I realized that I haven't shared with you another designer that I am completely jealous of and yet totally admire. I have known about her for a while, but she somehow managed to escape my Bulletin Board posts so far. The designer is none other than Palmer Weiss. She is solely responsible for inspiring me to create my own skirted foyer table. Her creations are so crisp and chic that I just can't resist making my own.

But aside from her skirted tables, I just love the way she incorporates unexpected colors and patterns into traditional layouts and spaces. Plus, I am absolutely enamored with her use of mid century pieces (see photos below). I've recently become obsessed with everything mid century, so when I discovered Palmer Weiss' portfolio, you can imagine how attracted I was to her style. So much so to the point where I want to mimic everything she's ever done.

{Photo Credit: Palmer Weiss}

I'm Obsessed With Skirted Tables

2011-07-29T14:03:00.000-04:00

Domesticate at Spoonflower
Yes, one more obsession of mine to add to the list. But this one is a practical obsession, I swear! As you all know, the Greek Key dresser being a foyer table replacement didn't exactly pan out the way I had envisioned. And even though I got a great mini-bar out of it, I'm still stuck with a foyer table that I am not 100% in love with. Even though I would love to buy a foyer table that looks like this...

Jacqui Console Desk/Table
...I know it's just not in the cards. SO, I have decided that instead of chucking out the current foyer table (its the right size AND I save some $$), why not give it new life with some fabric? It's actually a great idea and I can't believe I didn't think of it sooner. The fabric will help serve two purposes. The first being that it will hide any unsightly storage underneath the table (there's a shelf that can hold shoes when we have guests over - see photo below).

And the second purpose being it will add color and pattern to provide an impactful entrance into the house. This of course is all dependent on the fabric that I choose, but if you couldn't already guess, I'm thinking of the Coral Ikat (1st image at the top) by Domesticate from Spoonflower. Even though I'm not in love with the foyer table, it's one redeeming quality is the coral color, which is why I'm gravitating towards a coral fabric with a fresh print.

Once I get the Coral Ikat swatch in the mail, I'll document the process of taking the fabric and turning it into a skirt for my foyer table. Until then, check out the photos below for some great examples of skirted tables. And my next post will feature a designer who inspired me to do this for my own home. Can you guess who?

Happy Friday!

Kelley Interior

Amanda Nisbet

Southern Living

Grant Gibson

Tom Scheerer

30% Off Sale at Shop Proper Hunt

2011-07-27T18:03:00.000-04:00

Out with the old, in with the new! I've just added a bunch of new items from my 2nd Trunk Show to my Etsy shop, and to make way for it all, I've taken 30% off on some of the items from my 1st Trunk Show. There's still a lot more items that I need to add to the store, so I'll keep you updated with another post very soon.

Look for "30% OFF SALE" in the title of the item for the sale items.

Happy Shopping!

Shop Proper Hunt's 2nd Trunk Show

2011-07-27T08:54:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago, I hosted the 2^nd SPH Trunk Show (you can see the 1^st one here) and I just had to show you some of the goodies that had been stock piling in my house for the past two months. Some of the items in the photos may have already been purchased, but if you see something you're interested in, just email me and I'll let you know if it's available.

I was so busy chatting up a storm with friends that I didn't take as many photos as I would've liked so my apologies for the lack of photos in this post. But once I have the time (and motivation) to upload all of the remaining items to my Etsy shop, you can see them all there, promise.

{Photo Credit: Christina Johnston}

New at Shop Proper Hunt! Vera Neumann Silk Scarf Pillows!

2011-07-25T13:48:00.000-04:00

I've got to make this quick, but just wanted to let you all know that the Vintage Vera Neumann silk scarves that I turned into pillows are now on my Etsy shop. Go check them out and let me know what you think!

And I'll have the photos from my 2nd Trunk Show up very soon!

Attention Please!

2011-07-22T17:14:00.000-04:00

buffalo winter
It is finally happening. After working on so many design projects for myself and for others, I've decided that it's time to offer design services to everyone and anyone who enjoys the styles seen on Proper Hunt.

Currently, I'm offering E-Decorating services along with several A La Carte services. In the very near future, I will be offering the Full Service Design package so wait to hear more on that very soon. Check out all of my services here!

Our Greek Key Dresser Turned Mini-Bar

2011-07-20T14:32:00.000-04:00

Finally! I have finished styling and photographing the Greek Key Dresser for you all to see! What do you guys think?? It's not exactly in the location I had intended it for, but we found a new purpose and location for it, so it all worked out in the end.

My intentions for this dresser were met with major failure. Let me explain. The minute we had placed it where the foyer table was, it was pretty obvious it wasn't going to work there. Even though I took care to measure the dresser in the entryway, somehow it stuck out too much and was too short (in width) to replace the foyer table. Turns out that there was an empty wall on our first floor that needed to be filled, so we figured: why not turn the dresser into a mini bar? So, now we have a piece that serves as a bar in our first floor and something really exciting to look at the minute you walk into our house.

Nerd Alert: When Steve and I were trying to figure out what the best approach would be for sizing the Greek key in a way that is visually pleasing, Steve recalled that he had read something about a mathematical concept called the Fibonacci sequence that related back to nature, math, and the arts. It's too much to explain in detail here, but basically Steve suggested that we use the "golden ratio" - which can be derived from the Fibonacci sequence - as our guide to sizing the pieces of the Greek key in relation to one another.

As you can see from the drawing below, each piece within the spiral pattern of the Greek key is approximately 1.6 times the size of the next smallest piece (the golden ratio is 1.618033....and goes on). We used this approach for measuring out the pieces in the top and bottom sections of the dresser and then simply doubled the lengths of each piece for the middle section.

And it worked! The result is quite visually pleasing I think. Then I topped the dresser off with a vintage white & yellow bamboo lamp (a steal from Goodwill at $14!) and some other vintage accessories from consignment shops and thrift stores. The overall style was to be functional yet glam and full of interest. How'd I do?

{All Photos by yours truly}