Tuesday Tip

Barking inspiration! The Dog Days of Summer are upon us. Those last few days of August. Many of us are changing gears and revving up for new projects and the anticipation that a new season is just around the corner. It's no secret I love dogs...especially mine! So this week's posts will be dedicated to dogs in design & decor. There is a place for canines in every room!


On a special drawer





In the kitchen



On the walls



On the table



On the bookcase




In the laundry or mud room



By the door





Everywhere!!!



Sources: Anthropologie, Pottery Barn, Pierre Deux, Ballard Designs, Hugo Guinness from John Derian Co. 

Tuesday Tip

I think many of us, whether we are designers managing tight budgets or home owners looking to make little updates, watching for sales is an often necessary part of design.

My pick today is Anthropologie!  I have a long standing affection for this store.  It has an eclectic array of merchandise that appeals to a broad range of ages and tastes.  I do however, have a great deal of trouble paying full price for items that are often deemed unnecessary.  I shop their sales and pick up items that I can use in my own home, design projects, or to give as gifts to friends and family.  So, with the 20/10 rule in place, here's what I found:

Woodland Creatures Pot Au Chocolat:  I am certain any hot chocolate will taste divine poured from this pot, as well as delight both young and old with this whimsical design!!!  At $19.95 it is the most expensive item of my lot, but who could resist???

Love Bird Salt & Pepper Shakers:  For spring luncheons, Mother's Day, a friend's birthday, a collector, or dining alfresco in the summer.  At $12/pair, a very sweet tweet-tweet!

Laurel Leaf Bowls:  Wonderful raised details and a soothing blue color to compliment many dishes already in your cupboard.  And if you have glass front cabinets, like I do, your dishes need to be pretty and practical to hold up to everyday use.  These bowls are a good deal at $7.95 each because they are microwave and dishwasher safe!

Olive Picks:  These look like miniture tulips!  Made from olivewood, each one has its own unique characteristics.  At $3.95 each, buy them to encourage good manners!!!  Add your favorite jar of olives, a beautiful ribbon and you just created the perfect 10 minute hostess gift!  They would also be great tied on packages or dropped into stockings.  I wish I had bought more....so hurry!!!