Already Mid-March!

Where did the time go?! I cannot believe it's already about half way through March. So many things have been happening, and I still can't find the time to blog as much as I would love to! I need to change that. Since my last post (which was Jan 22nd), I have been super busy but I am pretty proud of myself for the progress I have made... 

1) I signed up for and completed two classes at NY School of Interior Design - Technical Drawing and a Beginner Revit course (PS: Revit is not the most fun but it's an amazing program and I can't wait to learn more to help advance my career!)

2) I went on two vacations - one to FL to visit family in Feb, and one for a wedding and to see friends in my second home in SoCal earlier this month which is also why I have been MIA

3) Already have been to two appointments and received my first set of trays for Invisalign and have 12-18 months to go but I am super excited!! Can you believe you have to wear them for an optimal 22 hours per day - just taking 2 hours out for eating and snacking so I hope that I can get used to that quick.

4) Made serious progress on my portfolio but it is ALMOST COMPLETE finally - three months in the making. My tip to anyone trying to get their portfolio together would be to non stop research other portfolios out there and look at magazines you like to see how their templates are laid out before starting to make yours. If you have the style and template down, it will be a lot easier. Not to mention, knowing the program you are using prior to starting as I had to self teach myself InDesign while I was creating my portfolio but now I know wayyy more InDesign than I ever did. 

Now what is left on my to-do list? Well, definitely finish my portfolio and back to saving money like crazy. Now that we've been away, I really need to get back on track with saving money and get back to wedding planning. That has also been a stand still because we are back and forth between our vision for our wedding which is making it difficult to move forward with any set decisions. To have a big wedding or to buy a house? Definitely not an easy answer right now. I will surely keep you posted on the progress of it all! Until next time..

xo, 

Lauren

TJ Maxx January Finds

Hi all! I hope your 2018 feels as productive as mine so far! Although, there is definitely room for more progress (always). What I've focused on since my last post about bettering myself this year is :

- I've signed up for some technical classes to hone my design skills at NYSID

- I've been working on my portfolio and making great progress 

- I've set an appointment for Invisalign

What I need to do still:

- Set up my personal training sessions at the gym

- Figure out how best to write blog posts consistently and POST THEM (I usually just post things as they come to mind, or what is relevant for me at a certain time - but I'd love to figure out the best method for posting what and when)

- Figure out my best game plan for food prepping and NOT BUYING THAT COFFEE, although I've been doing really well so far!

In the meantime, I'm always browsing for inspiration and product and came across some pretty little finds from the latest TJ Maxx home assortment. As we all know, there are limited quantities and they can become unavailable at any time. I've come up with my top 10 finds - which is your favorite?? 

1 / BP Industries Mango Wood Console / $139.99

2 / Jofran Rattan Chairs Set of 2 / $179.99!!

 

3 / UMA Galvanized Metal And Wood Table / $79.99

4 / Made in Italy Chessboard with Drawer / $79.99

5 / Stylecraft Side Table with Storage / $199.99

6 / Chanel and Louis Vuitton Coffee Table Books / $24.99 + $59.99

7 / Tainoki Patterned Fabric Bench / $99

8 / Urban Trends Sunburst Mirror / $39.99

9 / Jofran Leather Side Chair / $299.99

10 / Siena Faux Succulent Plant / $12.99

I am loving all of these, especially since some are just super unique like the acacia wood chessboard set! I also love how you can get some really amazing coffee table books, and faux plants that are perfect for adding some no-maintenance greenery. So many more options here! 

xo,

Lauren

2018: New Year, Better Me

Happy New Year everyone! This year I want to stay dedicated to writing no more "I'm Back" posts. The last post I wrote was back in Sept 2017 and that is just way too long ago. I love writing posts, but I definitely got caught up with life and work and put blogging on the back burner - even though I teeeechnically had the time to write. I just didn't think to make it a priority among other things. This year, I've committed to things I want to stay on top of, and I want to keep blogging a priority on this list since it can be pretty beneficial for a design career. Since we are planning our wedding for 2019 and I am Maid of Honor in my sisters wedding this year, there is no question this year will be all about planning. But I definitely want to take the time I can this year to better myself before life gets even crazier and more busy (like eventually moving and starting a family within a few years). This is definitely a more personal post than I've ever written, but here are some of the things that are of high importance to me this year...

1) Get in better shape: My amazing fiance gifted me 4 personal training sessions and I cannot wait to start. I always try working out on my own but I need that extra help to make sure what I am doing is actually benefiting me and my overall goals for my body and wellness. 

2) Go to all the Dr's appointments: This one can sound silly, but I just got much better insurance than last year and I'm so excited to go to Dr's that I've ultimately held off going like the dermatologist and neurologist because I want to focus on getting clear skin that lasts and eliminating my migraines.

3) Straighten my teeth - again: I had braces in high school, and now 14+ years later since having them, my teeth have not exactly stayed straight. I finally connected with an orthodontist my dad knows (thankfully my dad is a dentist) and have an appointment set to get that ball rolling, and not think that "I should have" come my wedding day..

4) Take those classes: I keep researching different classes I can take to grow my technical design skills and overall career, and I never actually commit to it. It's a constant battle in my mind whether or not to take classes because ultimately I don't want to waste money. But I need to stop thinking that way and just do it. I've pretty much already decided that I do not need a degree right now, but I definitely want to sharpen my AutoCad Skills, and learn new ones to help me grow in my field. There is no better time than now and I don't want to look back and regret not moving forward with what I am passionate about. 

5) Finish my portfolio: This goes hand in hand with #4, and I actually am almost done with my portfolio. I tend to think too much, which is why it's taken me so long to actually put one together. But it could never hurt to just finish what I have, and see where it takes me. I've been waiting on getting the right photos taken of my own apartment so I can add that to my portfolio, too, but I don't technically need it with what I have right now so why hold it off any longer? I just don't want to limit myself anymore and not have a complete portfolio if the right opportunity arises. YOU JUST NEVER KNOW.

6) Save all the money: This one speaks for itself. I need to food prep more, bring my coffee to work in my thermos, and reinvent ways to wear clothes I already have. Doing this, I can put all the money saved towards my above goals.

With alllllll that said, I can say that actually helped me to organize my thoughts a bit better than 10 minutes ago ;) I am excited to start all these goals and see how they all work out for me. I could probably add like 10 more things, but then I wouldn't end up doing any of them wholeheartedly so by focusing on less goals, I can put my all into them and then on to the next. Cheers to growth in 2018!!

xo,

Lauren

BEST FALL CANDLES

Fall is officially here as of yesterday! Although, it really doesn't feel like fall since it was 86 degrees in NYC today - not complaining :) How do you like to prepare your home for the fall season?? I love to swap out my candles and add small decor around our space. While searching for my favorite fall candle to share, I realized there are actually quite a lot so I've decided to dedicate this post to an assortment of deliciously scented fall candles. YOU'RE WELCOME :) 

1 / brooklyn candle company / fern + moss

2 / the white company / autumn 

3 / west elm + rewind / spiked cider

4 / anthropologie / boulangerie jar pumpkin souffle

5 / bath + body works / marshmallow fireside

6 / nest candles / pumpkin chai

7 / p.f candle co / teakwood + tobacco

8 / anthropologie / fireside + starlight candle

9 / voluspa / baltic amber

10 / williams sonoma / pumpkin spice

xo, 

Lauren 

Trending: Geometric

The more I browse stores, online, pinterest, etc, the more I see geometric shapes in design. From a candle or vase to a rug or bed, it's becoming a trend that I'm not upset about - what about you? Plus, it's pretty Photoshop cropping friendly ;) I've put together some geometric pieces that I'm loving from a bunch of my favorite stores. They're perfect to add in a space to break up a lot of soft pieces or textures and easy to switch out (for the most part) if you decide you want to try something new. My tip is to not over do it, because it's important to think about balance when decorating with anything geometric otherwise it can begin to look too busy. Which piece is your favorite??

geo mosaic wallpaper / anthropologie / $78 

kumo wallpaper / anthropologie / $78

matte black stars / mcgee + co / $48-68

matterhorn vases / lulu + georgia / large $147

venus decorative stands - set of 3 / layla grace / $162

tufted laily rug 8x10' / anthropologie / $1,198

wire mesh form stool / layla grace / $162

faceted lacquer side table / west elm / $399

geometric media console / rh / $1,496 with $100 membership

xo,

Lauren

Labor Day Deals

Hi all and Happy Labor Day! I haven't posted since July 1st - I really need to get it together. I have been so busy this summer with weddings, our engagement, working and finishing up our apartment that I often think about a blog post to write and then it never ends up happening. Some of these posts included talking about creating a space plan, common design mistakes, how to decorate empty shelving, etc. - SO many ideas. With it being LDW, it's only right to list some of my favorite Labor Day finds! I've listed a handful of items from three of my go-to stores for my own home...enjoy! In the meantime, off to brunch we go :) 

10% off $300 with code GOOD 

15% off $550 with code BETTER 

20% off $800 with code BEST 

25% off $1,500 with code BANANAS

judi armchair / $760 

lotta dining chair / $413

astern gold stool / $478

prisha rug / 8x10' $316

hello doormat / $45

certo table lamp / $158

slainie bookends / $95

laxton trays - set of 2 / $90

mahari candle holders / $60 - $83

15% off home items (additional off sale items) with code LABORDAY

decorative basket pillowfort khaki / $28.49

rodney wood arm chair / $218.49

live edge wood tray / $17.99

pendant floor lamp / $75.99

gray fringe pillow / $21.24

gray geo lumbar pillow / $16.99

framed patterned abstract art - set of 2 / $75.99

blanket marled sweater knit throw / $24.99

olsen collection two head task lamp / $28.49

buy more save more up to 30% off + free shipping with code HUGESALE

andes three piece sectional / $2,497

cotton luster velvet pillow cover - dusty blush / $29 

allover crosshatch jacquard pillow cover / $39

deco handle tray - small and large / $59-$89

minted for west elm "and the color of my eyes has gone back to the sea" / $299

spun metal standing planter - small and large / $79-$99

amytis curtain / $79-$99

roar + rabbit swivel chair / $799

xo,

Lauren

TJ Maxx Home Finds

Guys, we finally got our new media console delivered! Stay tuned for photos - it's still a work in progress, but I am loving how it is coming together. Now that we have it, we still have a blank wall to the left of it that I'm figuring out what to fill with. I'm thinking two small stools/poufs with a decorative ladder, or a small accent chair with an ottoman. Still not sure, but I have to say that it's actually really hard to come across small stools/ottomans. There is a lot out there, but I'm finding it difficult to narrow down options. While browsing today, I came across SO many items at TJ Maxx that I am loving so I decided to share them all with you. You all know how TJ Maxx/Homegoods/Marshalls all have a home section, and they're all limited quantities. So if you happen to like any of these items, definitely check to see if they're still available! Many of these items are JUST like ones from retailers that are much higher in price point. Which items are your favorite?

Top to bottom: 

 mckayna flip top table / $199.99

uma mid century chest / $129.99

teak wood stool / $79.99

made in indonesia large tapered basket / $24.99

made in indonesia seagrass tote with pom poms / $16.99

bella lux made in brazil set of 2 agate bookends / $24.99

made in indonesia small sliced teak root crate / $29.99

sheffield home concrete lamp with wood accent / $59.99

sheffield home set of 2 concrete brass / $99.99

simon blake vamp table lamp / $49.99

stylescraft round tufted linen ottoman / $39.99

safavieh made in turkey persian inspired area rug 4x6' / $49.99

xo,

Lauren

Easy Home Updates for Summer

Hey everyone! It's been a full month since my last post. If I really want to stay on top of this blog thing, I really should post more, huh? Well, one of THE most amazing things has happened this month - I'm engaged! So naturally I'm pretty much non-stop thinking about what our wedding plans will be and believe me, I have a lot of ideas :) I will keep you posted on that, but in the meantime I've put together ways to update your home for summer. I love introducing more greenery, lightening up my bedding, and switching out candles for more summery scents. What are your go-to summer home updates??

1 / summer candle / white company

The White Company just opened by my job, and when I checked it out I fell in love. I LOVE their candles like this summer scent one and they also have a lavender one that is amazing.

2 / organic washed linen sheet sets / west elm

I love switching out my sheet sets to something lighter and more breathable - in the summer and winter, too. Something like a washed cotton or linen will have a lighter feel and keep you cooler at night.

3 / eva tassel + kyoto pillow covers / serena + lily

One thing is for sure - I love pillows. I think it's great to use lighter or darker neutrals for your main pillows so you have more versatility to mix in others when the seasons change.

4 / white stone terrarium / west elm

I absolutely love this terrarium collection! I have one that has the natural wood as the base. Each one is handmade and the glass is actually burned and then melted onto the wood. I would recommend going to a west elm if you can to pick yours in person like I did. 

5 / multi colored dish towels / anthropologie

Switching up your dishtowels in the kitchen is a small, fun way to get in the summer spirit.

6 / striped bath mat / target 

Changing out your bath accessories like your bath mat, towels and shower curtain is also another small, fun way to bring summer into your home.

7 / favorite fruit pot / anthropologie

I love how whimsical these planters are! Perfect for summer. 

xo,

Lauren

Anthropologie Sale Favorites

Hi guys! Things have been pretty busy with family birthdays and other events going on and we are still waiting on our Anthropologie media console but I am so excited to get it soon! I'm still looking for other pieces to complete our space, and I may be browsing a few places this MDW for the promotions going on. In the meantime, here are some of my favorites that are on sale right now.. of course from their home department.. from napkins to bedding to furniture. By the way, that media console is a version of the one we got but shorter and a black pattern. The all natural one is sold out but I still am loving the contrast of this one. I just love how unique they are and that they are solid wood. Also, PLEASE let me know if there are any topics that you would like to see me post about and I will plan to do so!

PS: If you're a member at Anthro, they just launched an Anthroperks for members that include free shipping on all orders $150+. I don't know if that is a huge perk but shopping there does add up so maybe it makes sense. Enjoy :) 

chair / terai folding chair / $149.95

media / sura media console / $1099.95

napkins / madras napkin set / $19.95

bowl / fox & hare serving bowl / $39.95

side table / thorntree side table / $249.95

sham / peonia shams / $69.95

pillow / guideline pillow / $29.95

bath mat / maya bath mat / $29.95

rug / marmotinto rug 8x10' / $699.95

xo,

Lauren

Living Room Update

Hey all! Hope you're enjoying your weekend wherever you may be :) Today I enjoyed doing next to nothing other than much needed errands, and may or may not have included Artichoke Basille's Pizza (if you don't know this place you need to check it out...best artichoke pizza ever!!). Other than that, I have been continuously on the hunt for a new media console. My problem is I sort of browse the same sites over again thinking something will change, or maybe a good sale will come up and I'll get a piece that is okay but totally worth the price....but nothing has stuck out to me...until today! Let's face it, Anthropologie's furniture isn't necessarily wallet friendly as it is window-shop friendly, but I came across a media console that I had seen before..loved the look but not willing to spend the money (it is solid wood and a really unique piece though). Today I was on their site and saw that the media was on sale (still not cheap but doable), but of course NOT IN THE RIGHT FINISH. Thank you Anthro for the "you may also be interested in..." tab because lucky for me it also came in a buffet version that actually worked even better, size wise, AND in the right finish. It also had the sliding door detail with shelving and cable hole which we definitely need. Long story, well, still long...I pulled the plug! My boyfriend was really not that fond over the detail on the piece (he is much more minimal/modern) but I just had to at least try it. I looked at the reviews and a few mentioned that the detailing is not as contrast in person, so I am actually thinking that may be better for us because my boyfriend didn't love that pattern anyway. I'm sure it will still be beautiful. Not sure if I like this media with the planter we already got, but I will move the planter to another side of the room so it doesn't clash next to it like I think it will. Here's a round up of the old and new items that have made and are making its way into our apartment. To the left of the media I plan to put the lucite console with two stools underneath and some art. Finally, it's starting to come together :) 

media console / sura buffet / anthropologie

rug / prisha rug 8x10 / lulu + georgia

chair / cantor lounge chair / rh teen

planter / mid-century turned wood planter / west elm

console / peek-a-boo console / cb2

stools / woven accent stool / target

art /  minted for west elm - escape route II / west elm

coffee table / box frame marble coffee table / west elm 

ps -- I may or may not paint a canvas for above the console but I chose this print by Max Borelli of a close up Italian spiral staircase. I am part Italian and love design so I thought this would be a nice personal touch. All the art in our living room is also black and white so I want to stick with that theme. Stay tuned to see how this media works out in our space!

xo,

Lauren

Rug Love

Happy Monday guys! It's been a little while since I've been busy with work and family things (haven't we all) but I am back! I wanted to share a few of my favorite moments in my home currently including our new Lulu & Georgia rug that I LOVE every time I walk into our apartment. I kept telling myself I only wanted wool, handmade, etc but I couldn't resist the style, color and price point - it was part of L&G annual 25% off sale so I had to. I am still on the search for a perfect media console but I have been scoping out Stor New York on Etsy and although the price point is higher, each media is handmade in Brooklyn and I even have the option to customize it a bit so that is all in the works :) 

By the way if you are ever in Astoria and looking for a great brunch spot, check out Mom's and/or Halsey's Tavern! We originally went to Mom's but they had such a wait, but told us Halsey's Tavern next door has the same exact kitchen and brunch menu (minus iced coffee and milkshakes). So we lucked out with no wait and delicious food :) Stay tuned for more design updates and a new post on what to look for when styling your shelving!

coffee table / west elm
shelving / west elm
decor / west elm, anthropologie, lulu & georgia, etsy, target
sofa / raymour and flanigan
chair / wayfair
side table / homegoods
planter / west elm

xo,
Lauren