Elte Clearance

If you live in Toronto or anywhere near Toronto then you need to go and check out Elte's NEW Clearance section.  A friend and I had a lot of success shopping at this store on Saturday for her home.  This hide rug pictured below was found in the bedroom section at ridiculous price but we fell hard for it!  Or at least I did.  Then we headed to the clearance section and saw the same rug but slightly smaller for thousands less!!!    My eyes almost popped out of their sockets.  No damage, no real reason other than they have new stock and wanted to get rid of the old stock.  WOOHOO!!!  Needless to say you'll see it featured in a living room I'm working on shortly.  And sadly not my own.  My rug is berber nothingness but it fits the purpose.

It is finally sunny in Toronto!!  I'm still very tired but at least the sun is out providing vitamin D.  Jelly Bean has been moving around a lot this morning.  Sometimes I think I have a mini boxer in my tummy.  What will he or she be like?  I'm so excited to find out.  :)

Have a lovely day! xo

Decorating with Kids in Mind - All Modern Baby

I have been sourcing out stores and websites to shop for baby La Rose.  There are so many options out there.  For those who love to shop online the sky is the limit.  Me, I like to feel the products before I purchase.  There are a few things that I will buy online as long as it comes with great reviews! 

All Modern Baby has everything you could possibly need with a very resonable range of prices.  Furniture, decor, bedding, accessories, lighting, strollers and more.  Here are a few of my favourites from the site. 

DwellStudio Chocolate Dots Diaper Tote

Inspired Crib Bedding Geo Aqua Crib Bedding Collection

Lambs & Ivy Luv Bugs Ceiling Sculpture

All Modern Babyb Wall Decal

UppaBaby Vista Stroller in Denny Red

Take a tour if your in the market for anything baby related.  It's a great resource! 

Have a fabulous day!! xo

Luxurious Chairs with a lot of choice

I know I've been M.I.A since last week. The weekend was busy with family events, packing and spending some time in bed since I got sick. Moving out went well. Ryan and his buddy Josh did most of the heavy lifting while I took out the small, lighter objects (pillows... haha!). We started at 9am and finished by 11am. The day ended by relaxing at the in-laws. It's very peaceful where they live. I hate the hour and a half commute home but love the peace and quiet up there. It's a nice transition to the new house.  

Since I've been busy with life I haven't had much of an opportunity to sit at the computer and browse for inspiration. I received an email from Serena & Lily this morning reminding me of their awesome furniture and thought it was the perfect post. They have one of the best selections of fun fabrics and quality furniture. You simply choose the style of seat (chair, ottoman, bench), pick out the fabric from a variety of modern and classic swatches and then choose the finishing’s and watch it come to life on their online store. It's so much fun to dream up different designs.

I'll be back tomorrow with a recap on the launch party for Miele's newest vacuum that I attended last week.  It was awesome! 

Have a great day! xo

HomeSense

While I was in Kingston a few weekends ago I stopped by HomseSense.  I like to go there as often as possible.  They had so much to offer with garden furniture and accessories.  It's so very difficult not to purchase everything even without a garden of my own.  Soon, very soon!

I did purchase this beauty for $39!!!!  I love the Moroccan feel.  HomeSense is too good to me.  You should go check out your neighborhood store for great deals!

It will probably go in our master bedroom next to the chair I purchased a few weeks ago (after it's refinished).  Now I need bedside tables, a dresser, curtains and art.  Oh lord this will take a while... I've got quite the task ahead of me because it all needs to be done on with zero dollars a TIGHT budget!

Enjoy the beautiful summer weather we are experiencing (if you're in Southern Ontario).  xo

Serena & Lily

Have you heard of Serena & Lily?  I remember seeing a post about their Prague Market Sling but didn't know anything else about the store until I toured last night.  It's an online store offering stylish accessories, furniture and linens for baby and moms.  Some of the products are organic certified. 

I adore the baby bedding collection.

Ben

Kate

Marlo

Natasha

They have a great selection of throw pillows in bold and classic patterns.

I go weak in the knees for a good throw.  It must be because I'm always cold and like the punch they can give a neutral backdrop (sofa, bed, chair, outfit...)  I love them in all different colours and if they are soft then I'm a sucker.  I'm thinking of buying their Alpaca Throw in periwinkle blue. 

What are your weaknesses?  Have you discovered any new online stores?  I'm always on the hunt. 

Have a great day!! xx

Let's go back to bed...

Morning folks!  It's Sunday morning and I'm enjoying a tall, half sweet, extra-hot, no whip, no foam, soy mocha at Starbucks (it's my drink which everyone makes fun of because it's so specific... but that's the beauty of starbucks because you get exactly what you want :) ).  I should be focusing on my budget forecast for work but instead I found myself online checking out who has updated their blog and feeling the urge to update you all on what I've purchased this weekend. 

Restoration Hardware

I have been working on the look I want to achieve in our new master bedroom for a few weeks now (most of this is done in my head).  I know I want something different from what we have now which is the RH White Italian Stitch in Chocolate Brown bedding.  I ordered the Pure White 600 Sateen from RH and thought it was going to be pure luxury and that we deserved it for the new house.  I mean how often do you change the style of your bedding?  For me it's not often at all so I don't mind spending the money on it since it will have to last.  However, when the new bedding arrived on Friday I wasn't so ecstatic after laying it out on the bed.  There was something off.  I stared at it for way too long to admit.  I would leave the room and then come back to see if something had changed.  (Do I sound like I'm losing my mind?)  Of course, nothing changed and nor was I getting use to the sheen factor.  The bed was practically glowing!  It was just way too shiny!  So I made the executive decision to take it back and get something a bit more practical for a new family house.  I mean I don't live a luxious life and nor do I have someone to iron my expensive bedding everyday to keep it looking great. 

After an hour with the RH sales person I picked out the Vintage Washed Belgian Linen set in white and couldn't be happier!  It's exactly the look I want to achieve - fresh, practical and elegant.  Linen is luxury and much more affordable.  :)  Now I have to wait 5 1/2 weeks to set it up. 

Ok, I must get back to work and then go check out HomeSense to see what's new.  Have a great Sunday my lovelies.  xo

Tip of the week!

I was just reading Rambling Renovators blog where she lists her latest loves.  One of them is one of the best inventions I've seen in a long time.  Check out these picture hanging tacks at My Design Dump.  They are brilliant and a must buy for the new house.

Niagara Falls Outlet Shopping & Weekend Recap

Good morning!


I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.  I definitely enjoyed mine.  20 seconds after getting home on Friday I received a call from two dear friends who I haven't seen in over a month.  They were taking a walk with their 3 week old baby Jack who I hadn't met yet.  He is SOO CUTE!!!! A little fussy about which way we walked.  He seemed to like the more bumpy sidewalks rather than the smooth.  Odd... Any who, we had a great little catch-up before they were back home to feed Jack.  Luckily they live up the street from me so I think I'll be stopping by a bit more once Jack's 4 weeks old.


I didn't pick up the dresser on Friday.  It turned out to be a lot more scuffed up than originally appeared in photos.  :(  It would be a great piece to have but I don't have the time to refinish it right now.  We have 5 weeks left in our rental unit and then it's off to my in-laws/friends for 9 days before we move into the new house.  There is a lot to be done in the next 6 weeks and a lot of work to settle us in and get the house in tip-top shape.


Saturday was a glorious day of shopping.  It was seriously one of the best shopping days I've had in years!  Betsy thank you so much for inviting me along.  Laura, Besty and I shop the same way.  We're in and out of a store if we think it's a waste and we take our time in stores like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, J.Crew and of course Target.  We also split up several times for various time periods only to find each other when an opinion was needed.  We were meant to shop together.  Betsy and I did very well taking home more than we thought possible.  Shopped till we dropped at the Niagara Falls Outlet Mall from 10am-3pm purchasing everything from dress tops, casual tops, dresses, shoes, handbags, perfume and then thought it was best to keep the good shopping mojo going with a stop at Target (even though we had no energy).  As soon as we got out of the car at Target and inside those doors there was this magical renewed energy.  The store is amazing!  It was a complete gold mine.  We bought jersey dresses, t-shirts, shoes (5 pairs between the 3 of us), sheet sets, hand soap/lotion....etc.  We spent 2 hours wandering the isles giggling with happiness.  Every once in a while one of us would say 'I can't believe how good this is?!" :)  Don't you love those kind of shopping days? 

Here is a little snap shot of the shoes I purchased.  The first are from Kate Spade Outlet.  Amazing deals!!

The second is from Target.  It's as gladiator as I'll ever get. 

This cute pair is from an unknown store.  As soon as we saw them it was a must buy.  How cute are they?!

 

We didn't get home until 8:30pm. It was a long day but completely worth it.  I'll have to save up again to go in the summer.  Even with paying duty we saved a lot of money.

Nate Berkus Rugs

You might have already heard through Marianne at Haven and Home but if you haven't Nate Berkus (my other love) has a new rug out called Dhurrie Rug with Fringe on HSN.  It comes in 4 different sizes.  I will definitely be keeping the 2' x 9' in mind for my long hallway. 

Inspirations For Our New House

Morning dear readers! 

I'm running on no caffeine or breakfast at this point so the post is short today.  I need to find more time to get my work done and grab some breakfast.  The pictures below were taken in Crate and Barrel on the weekend.  I loved the clean lines of this table for a kitchen or as a large desk. 

Depending on the type of table we purchase for the new house, I might consider this chandelier but with different shades.  The ones on it are a little too muted. 

I've mentioned these chairs before but I just love them so much!  I'm seriously considering them for the living room.  They are surprisingly comfortable with the down seat cushion and pillow back. 

I love them even more from behind! 

What have you found lately that has caught your eye?  Shopping for the house is my favourite hobby!! :)  xo

My New Dining Chairs!

I've never been a huge Craig's list fan... until now.  Ryan has purchased and sold golf items on there from time to time.  He found our apartment and sold his Jetta on it but I still never had any desires to go in search of treasures.  To be honest, I just thought it would be like shopping at Winners.  I love the idea of getting designer clothes discounted but just can't be bothered to search through all of the clothes.  That all changed when we started saving for our wedding and then the house.  Why pay full price when you can get so many items discounted.  I'm much better at finding deals for the house then clothing.  I love HomeSense! 

Ok, I'm rambling... The point is I finally started looking on Craig's list for furniture.  To my great surprise I found out it's a GOLD MINE!  I know I'm the last to know.  I knew I just didn't want to put in the time.  Today I'm so glad I did because we landed ourselves a great deal!  Eight cane back Louis dining chairs for $900!  There were 14 of them but we had no idea what we would do with 14 so we settled for 8.  These chairs are at least worth $250 each.  I'm so happy!!

The owner had just refinished them last year (stain guard and all).  The fabric isn't my favourite but it will certainly do for the first few years or until I can refinish it myself or afford someone else to do it.  How much would each chair cost to refinish (minus the fabric)?

Now it's time to find a dining table.  We want something like a harvest table or something that will age well.  We plan on having kids one day and I want them to be able to colour, draw and do crafts at the kitchen table.  Nothing high maintenance. 

Have a great day!!! 

Weekend Recap and Client Project Update

Good morning!!  Skip ahead if you prefer to see pictures instead of hearing about my weekend and ramblings...

Thank you to everyone who sent me such sweet and thoughtful messages after my bad day at the office on Thursday.  I'm happy to say that management realized their mistake.  They did not give us the full commission but agreed to at least half.  The reasoning makes sense.  It's the route they should have taken in the first place but that would have involved thinking ahead and sometimes that just doesn't seem possible for certain people.  It's frustrating that we had to go through the hassle and how dissapointing it was to hear they were renegging on what they originally agreed to.  However, I realize that mistakes are made and not done on purpose.  There have been changes made for next fiscal that I think will help end some of the problems.  I have no intensions of looking for work else where.  I've put in a lot of time and effort to back away now.  Not to mention there are some benefits to working where I do and I really like most of my colleagues.  We are a small office that acts like a family most of the time.  It can cause issues because of the lack of formality but it also makes most of us feel very comfortable at work and allows us to say what's on our mind (good or bad).  Now, that's done and it's a new week.  Time to start fresh. 

I had a wonderful weekend.  Friday was a bit of a write-off after taking an allergy pill that made me feel way too medicated to do anything.  I've decided I can't take them anymore.  They make me feel light-headed and empty inside.  It's a horrible feeling.  My colleagues were making fun of me all afternoon because I could barely function.

Ryan was off on Saturday.  We met up with my mom (in town for 24 hours) and sister Meg for a bit of shopping and lunch.  It was Ryan's lucky day!  I bought him a sweet looking watch for our anniversary and a blackberry and Lulu Lemon jacket for his birthday.  After that it was time for me and the house.  We wandered around 6th floor of The Bay at Queen & Yonge.  I was very impressed with the furniture selections from Gluckstein and a few other designers.  I will do a recap of it as soon as we figure out how to take the pics off of Ryan's blackberry.

In the meantime, I want to share my shopping trip with Paula (the friend who's house I'm decorating).  We had a blast at Elte yetserday! I told Paula that if I ever were locked in the store overnight it would be the best night of my life (apart from other momentous events in my life).  I would slide into every cozy bed and have a little snuggle in all the Sferra sheets, then I would sit on every sofa and chair while analyzing and cataloging all contents of the store in my brain.  (How crazy do I sound right now?) 

Below is the Lillian August sofa and chair we picked out for the living room.  As soon as Paula saw them she fell in love.  We had a lot of fun picking out the fabric.  In the end we went with the fabric that is on the sofa and chair and picked different fabric for the pillows. 

My camera does not do justice to the fabric for each pillow.  It's stunning in person. 

This is the fabric on the chairs.

That's all for now folks.  Have a great day!! xo

Spring Wish List

I love a short work-week but hate that I have to crame 5 days into 4.  Monday was incredibly busy at work and then I met a friend for dinner.  Tuesday was even more busy and then we hosted two friends for dinner.  (MG & OM it was great to catch up with you both! So glad you're back in town).  Wednesday was hectic at work.  I was trying to make a sale, meet with clients, tour stores with our promotions and so on.  By the time I got home I crashed!  I have so many ideas for posts I simply haven't had the time to do them up.  I will make more time at some-point on Sunday. 

Today I have a lot going on at work and then i'm heading to Kingston to be with my family until Saturday afternoon.  I will then come back to Toronto to celebrate our one year wedding anniversary (stay tuned for a special post/recap on that day) with Ryan.  We'll make dinner at home (too many dinners out in March) and exchange gifts.  Sunday morning we are with Ryan's family for brunch and then spending the rest of it with each other because that is our actual anniverary.  :)   I can't believe we've been married one year already.  :) 

I will leave you with my Easter (or anytime) wish list.  My family and I have never exchanged gifts for Easter so I think we should start.  :)  Be sure to check in tomorrow.  xo

MICHAEL KORS White Midsized Chronograph Watch

Nate Berkus™ Hexagon Cocktail Ottoman

Nine West

Soho Contemporary Rug by Safavieh

Tulip Bouquet

Coral on the brain

I have been working like a madman today.  I finally stopped for lunch only to realize that I forgot to post!  GASP!  Having you been desperately waiting?  :)  I hope so. 

Coral is one of my favourite colours because it looks so good on so many different skin tones (especially mine) and is such a happy colour.  So in tying in yesterday post about what makes me happy, I add to it, coral.  :) 

Strawberry Cheesecake Necklace

Anthropology

The Jersy Lomellina Cabana Tank Bathing Suit in Coral.

J.Crew

Cashmere throw/pashmina in coral.

William Sonoma Home

Waverly Ellis Fabric

Fabric.com

A girlie media room.  I would prefer the fabric above to be used on the drapes instead of the ones below.  What do you think?

Corea Sotropa Interior Design

Have a wonderful day!!  I'm having friends for dinner tonight and still need to figure out what to make.  Yikes!!  Wish me luck.  I'll recap tomorrow on a few buys from the weekend.  xo

This just in! Elte Linens SALE!!!

One of the sales associates at Elte called (Great service!!! Ask Marcy to help you) to tell me they're having a sale on linens starting today!!  20% off!!  They have great brands like Kelly Wearstler, Sferra, Calvin Klein, etc. 

Go forth and get yourself some much deserved soft and luxurious bedding.  I know I'm going to head there this weekend.

xo

Pottery Barn Canada Lowers Prices!! FINALLY!!

Good morning dear readers!  Today has started off well.  I just received this wonderful email from Pottery Barn Canada.  They have finally seen the light (the strong Canadian dollar) and lowered their prices.  I might have to stop in their at lunch to check out how low they've gone.  My cutlery set is $135 in Canada vs. $95 in the US.  I hope it's come down in price because I need 9 more place settings. 

I will be back later this morning with more updates on something I've been working on for months!!!

My Shopping Picks Revealed

Good morning my lovely readers!  I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.  Luckily, I am still enjoying my long weekend.  Thank you Family Day!  :) 


Since we are in serious save mode for our future house purchase I cannot shop for major items but I can virtual shop for things that I would one day like to own.  Here are my picks from Crate and Barrel.  I hope they provide you with a bit of inspiration.  Have a great day!!


In person this chair is awesome!  Add the extra pillow for your back and its incredibly comfortable.  I love the design of it because it looks like art.  

Ankara Chair

My aunt gave me (and Ryan) this serving piece as an engagement gift.  I LOVE it!  It reminds me of afternoon tea at a big name hotel (the Windsor Arms is my favourite spot in Toronto).  It will always be used and when it's not in use it stands alone well.  

Cambridge Two-Tier Server with Plates

This bench is a classic!  You could place it at the end of your bed, in the hall entry way or in the living room as extra seating.  

Colette Bench

I'm not normally attracted to red but this table caught my attention.  It's a classic pedestal table with a great punch colour!  

Esme Rosso Red Pedestal Table

Ah, this is the perfect French table.  I would design a kitchen around this table.  

French Kitchen Table

This lamp would look awesome next to a bed like the Colette.  

Haley Table Lamp

I love anything French.  It reminds my of my trip to Paris when I was 23 with a good friend.  We ate our way through the city and walked everywhere.  It was so surreal.  I couldn't believe I was in Paris!

La Tour Eiffel Tour Print

The Peacock is my favourite!  It would make a great statement on a neutral couch or chair.

Lima Alpaca Throw

I love the bright cheefrul colour of these Dutch Ovens.  Mario you're the best!! Can I come on your next trip to Spain?  Gweneth can tag along as well... 

Mario Batali Dutch Ovens