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How To Make Your Rental Apartment Feel More Like A Home

“Decorate your home. It gives the illusion that your life is more interesting than it really is.”
Charles M. Schulz

Apartment living can be a great option whether you are downsizing or moving out on your own after college, however, they tend to lack "character" an essential part of any home decor scheme. Character basically makes a home feel like a home -in essence, it changes the overall vibe of your abode.

If you just moved into a rental apartment and it feels a little sterile, dark or cold and you desperately want it to feel more like a home follow these steps outlined below:

Hang a lightweight medallion on the ceiling (see photo) to make a boring light fixture seem more dramatic. You can find these readily available at The Home Depot or other hardware stores.
Replace kitchen and bathroom cabinet hardware with modern/vintage knobs.
Switch out those outdated plastic light switch covers with something unique and contemporary.
For dark areas of your apartment add electric wall scones or battery powered wall lamps. Both are affordable and can be easily installed.
Upgrade your bathtub shower head with a Rain or LED showerhead to create a spa-like feeling within your bathroom.
Removable wallpaper - hang wallpaper to a blank boring white wall to update it instantly.
Remove those blinds (if you are allowed to) and update them with quality draperies.
Add houseplants. They are cheap, good for the air and will make any space feel like home. Make sure to place houseplants in a good quality/pretty planter so they don't look cheap.

Houseplants create a zen-like atmosphere in this living room

A french-style ceiling medallion makes this space look opulent

A wall sconce the perfect lighting needed to create hominess

This global decor style light switch will give any wall character

Source: Pinterest

Modern cabinet knobs and pulls a quick fix for any outdated fixture

These rental updates will transform any bland apartment into a palace. Hope they have inspired you. Give them a try!

How To Make Your Home Feel More Cozy After The Holiday Season

Happy New Year dear readers!

"For last year's words belong to last year's language.

And next year's words await another voice".

Unknown

Now that the holiday season is over and the Christmas decor is all packed away, our homes at this point might seem a little bare. The warmth and glow that the holiday decor provided is now gone but don't despair there is a remedy to fix all of that.

Lighting

One of the easiest ways to make your home feel cozier after the holiday season is to add lighting. Whether it is candles, floor lamps, or string lights, lighting is essential and the key to that cozy warm feeling that you crave.

Draperies

Changing out lightweight draperies and replacing them with heavier/darker ones will instantly give a warm feel to any room of your home.

Rugs/Pillows

Add area rugs (layer more than one) to your space especially if you have hardwood floors to add texture and to keep your feet toasty and warm. Another great way to add coziness to your abode is by adding toss pillows, throws on sofas and extra blankets on bedding.

Art

Artwork might not be the first thing you think of regarding coziness but using artwork/paintings does add an element of coziness to otherwise drab white walls. They tend to bring the whole room together and provides the feeling of warmth to your space. Try it out you won't be disappointed. Lastly, hang personal photos on your walls (gallery wall) which will invoke that "feeling" of familiarity and warmth. See photos below:

Soft layered rugs, dark draperies, and artwork makes for a cozy bedroom

This living room is the perfect example of warm - dramatic artwork, a roaring

fireplace, and textured pillows

Candlelight, a woven throw, and a checkered pillow the three main

components used for this cozy space

This floor lamp makes a statement combined with this soft throw

and printed rug making this room very cozy

Source: Pinterest

String Lights are the key to creating the depth of warmth in this living room

I hope 2020 is all that you imagined and more. Have a great week!

My Favorite Holiday Gift Ideas For Home Decor Lovers

The 25th of December will soon be here and Santa needs to get his/her sleigh ready. Shopping for gifts during the holidays is a lot of pressure especially when you haven't even started yet. If you or someone on your list is a home decor lover you will find this post very useful It is all about home decor gifts ranging from frugal to extravagant. Take a look below:

Source: Neiman Marcus
Retro Temperature Kettle approx $200

A retro-style electric kettle a splurge but well worth it for someone with discerning taste.

Source: Neiman Marcus
L'object Russe Candle approx $95

An elegant home gift for that special person on your list that loves to decorate with candles.

Source: Anthropologie
Chelsea Mug Blue Combo approx. $14

An affordable and classy gift for a coffee or tea addict.

Source: Anthropologie
Farmhouse milk bottle match striker approx $38

Keep your matches safe, secure and easily accessible with this match striker.

Source: Macy's
Martha Stewart Glassware Collection approx $67

For the girl that loves blush pink. This glassware set is rimmed with gold and makes a great hostess gift.

Source: Macy's
Digial Air Fryer approx. $144

This practical gift makes dinner time so much easier and healthier.

Source: Wayfair
Salt Lamp approx $45
The perfect gift for the person who needs some aromatherapy. Salt lamps enhance your mood, raise energy levels, and purifies the air.

Deciding on a holiday home decor gift is easy with these budget-friendly ideas above. Happy Shopping!

How To Successfully Decorate Your Fireplace Mantel for Christmas

"The home is the empire. There is no peace more delightful than one's own fireplace"
Marcus Cicero

The fireplace is an important focal point when decorating for the Christmas season. A grand piece of real estate that you should not ignore. It might be a little challenging but worth the time and effort.

If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace mantel in your home it would be worth your while to utilize it and show it off. Below are a few steps you can use to successfully decorate your mantel for Christmas.

Steps To Decorate Your Fireplace Mantel:

Place an anchor piece above the mantel to ground the whole look. (e.g a large mirror or painting).
Use large decorative pieces as small objects will make the mantel seem cluttered. Usually around 3-5 objects.
Apply symmetry - whatever object you place on the left will be placed on the right.
Decorate with garland or stockings in the same color scheme as your Christmas tree.
Add lights to your finished project if desired.

Source: One Kings Lane
Classic mantel decor with a mirror and wreath to anchor the whole look.

Source: One Kings Lane

Pine garland, an antique painting, and candelabras flank each side of this mantel to achieve
an old-world timeless style.

Source: Elle Decor

Go glam with this look. Gold and navy ornaments and silver mini trees.

Source: Elle Decor

Candy jars showcase this fireplace along with a hobby horse. Kids will love this look.

Source: Elle Decor

This mantel is decked out with checkered stockings, candles and white ornaments
perfect for a farmhouse look

There are so many ways to decorate your fireplace for the holidays hopefully, these photos have inspired you.

Minimalist Christmas Decor Style Ideas

Minimalist Christmas decor and Scandinavian inspired decor go hand in hand. Minimalism is basically when you pare down your decorating style to include just a few functional objects that provide a big impact.

The same principle is used when decorating your home for Christmas. Keep things simple making sure to achieve a curated distinct look and feel. If you are thinking of ditching the traditional Christmas decor this season and replacing it with a more minimalist look see the examples below:

Minimalist Christmas Decor Style

Source: Pinterest
This living room says Christmas without being flashy
with a simple garland and tree.

Source: Pinterest
Add coziness with a container filled with candles

Source: Pinterest
DIY a functional yet pretty stocking

Source: Pinterest
Decorate with a simple and natural pine tree branch

Source: Elle Decor
Create an organic feel with a wood bead garland

Source: Pinterest
Make a statement with an all-white color scheme

These photos all make a big impact while being understated.

Decor Tips:
Choose quality over quantity
Less is More
Choose objects that are easy on the eyes but provide a wow factor
Pick a neutral color scheme
Create a cozy ambiance with candles and throws
Bring nature inside your home

Are you ready to take the leap this year and decorate your home in the minimalist decor style?

5 Christmas Tree Themes That Are Truly Amazing

"O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree

How lovely are thy branches"

A snippet from the song O Christmas Tree

Yes, believe it or not, the Christmas season is here. We have to say goodbye to the autumn season, however, I look forward to all the merriment of Christmas.

One of the central elements of celebrating Christmas is having and decorating a Christmas tree. The history of the Christmas tree dates back to the 16th century when German Christians brought decorated evergreen trees into their homes mostly adorned with candles.

Decorating a Christmas tree brings so much joy and happiness one can't deny the pleasure of having one. Whether you decide to go all out with the decorations or just a simple tree and lights the same outcome will emerge pure joy. If you are looking for a specific theme to decorate your tree to coexist with the style of your home's decor there are endless themes to choose from such as Coastal, Traditional, Minimalistic, Glam or Farmhouse. The choice is yours. Before you start here are just a few tips.

Decor Tip:

Decide on what type of tree you want to display in your home artificial or real
Make sure the tree fits within the proportion of the room
Pick a theme that closely matches the style of your home
Begin with the lights first
Choose the right size and type of decorations
Adorn with ribbons
Utilize tree picks to fill sparse spaces
Layer a tree skirt under the tree

Below are 5 Christmas tree themes that are truly amazing:

Traditional

Source: Pinterest

Coastal Theme

Source: Coastal Living Magazine

Farmhouse

Source: Country Living Magazine

Minimalistic

Source: Tumblr

Modern Glam

Source: HGTV

These Christmas trees are so beautiful I cannot pick a favorite.

Do you have a favorite theme that you would love to see in your home? Please leave a comment below.

Front Porch Fall Ideas from House Beautiful

"Sitting on your front porch is like sitting at the boundary of heaven and earth"

John Sarris

Your front porch is an essential place for displaying fall/Thanksgiving decor as it is the first place that your visitors see when approaching your home. It sets the tone of how the interior of your home will look like.

Styling your front porch can seem overwhelming but with a little imagination and the ideas below you will soon be on your way to creating a fabulous entryway for your guests to drool over. Keep in mind that you can take some of these ideas and incorporate them using fall decor that you already have on hand. No need to blow your budget to duplicate these designs they are merely here to inspire you. Take a look below:

Colorful foliage encircle these steps and an autumn wreath is hung

on the front door.

This banister is wrapped with corn husks and an array of white mums,
blue and white pumpkins are artfully arranged.

Vibrant autumn hues and cobalt blue pillows
add a splash of color to this front porch.

Elegant urns filled with pine branches flock both sides of this door accompanied by a

seasonal wreath.

Source: House Beautiful
A simple wreath wrapped with golden leaves adorns this front door.

Be inspired by these ideas and decorate your front porch this fall season you won't regret it. Visit https://www.housebeautiful.com/ for more fall and Thanksgiving ideas.

4 Opulent Thanksgiving Table Setting Ideas

“The heart that gives thanks is a happy one, for we cannot feel thankful and unhappy at the same time.” Douglas Wood

In a couple of weeks, Thanksgiving will be upon us. Have you thought about the big day and how you will decorate your dining room table to wow your family and guests? If not, read on to find out how you can set an opulent table effortlessly with a few inspirational photos from Good Housekeeping.

In order to create an opulent table setting first decide what kind of theme you are going for and how many people will be seated at the dinner table. This is to ensure that the theme displayed on your table matches the overall theme of your already decorated home. Everything must flow together including the place settings and centerpieces. If your home is decorated in the popular farmhouse style stick with that theme on the dinner table. For a unique look, you can also incorporate another decor style with the style you've chosen just keep it to a minimum and make sure it blends well.

Bring your own unique touch to your table setting by using printable placeholders, homemade dinner napkins, and napkin holders. To save money on flowers, cut floral branches from your backyard to fill vases, or buy inexpensive artificial/dried flowers that look like the real thing. You can skip flowers altogether if you choose to and instead use what you have on hand like pumpkins, greenery or autumn fruits.

A tablecloth placed on your dinner table will surely provide an air of sophistication and it is also a practical idea. Glassware and silverware should be pristine and placed correctly on the table (refer to Goodhousekeeping for tips on how to set a table the right way).

Lastly, make sure to leave enough room on the table for the food that you prepared and that the centerpieces are not too tall so that they obstruct your guests' view. Below are a few examples to get you started in the right direction:

Source: Good Housekeeping Magazine

Source:. Pinterest

Source: Elle Decor

These opulent table settings above are timeless, complement any style of decor and are truly inspiring.

5 Fall Vignettes For The Autumn Season

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.”
― Emily Bronte

Falling leaves, golden hues and pumpkins everywhere describe the beauty of the fall season.

As summer ends and cooler temperatures are upon us we feel the need to stay inside and enjoy the coziness of our homes. Styling your home for the autumn season takes a little bit of creativity and a lot of inspiration/motivation.

My go-to for fall inspiration is Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube videos. Everything is curated in one spot so you can choose your favorites to initiate the decorating process.

Firstly, a set aside a specific day of the week to go through your choices and see if they go with the style of your home in order to attain a cohesive look. Choose which rooms you want to display your curations, decide on a budget and now you can start the fun part decorating. Keep in mind that it might take several tries before you get that perfect look just keep trying - the outcome will be worth it.

Finding inspiration to decorate for fall is easy thanks to these five vignettes below:

Source: Google

A bounty of seasonal fruit and greenery surrounds a farmhouse

style pumpkin

                                                                   Source: Pinterest

                            This two tiered tray displays tiny pumpkins, a wood bead, floral stems
                                                             and a cute fall signage

Source: Pinterest

This beautiful display features grey and white pumpkins, tapered

candles and tree branches

Source: Country Living Magazine

                                                      Source: Pinterest
                           A bouquet of fall flowers stands gracefully on this tray surrounded by
                                                        acorns and multi-colored pumpkins

Do you have a favorite vignette? Comment below to join the discussion.

How to Simply Refresh Your Abode For The New Year

Another year has passed (that was a quick one) and now it's time to reluctantly put away the Christmas and Holiday decor and refresh your abode for the coming year. With that in mind, there will be some rooms that will look quite barren and sparse without glowing lights or garlands. Here are a few examples of how to fix that issue and easily refresh your abode for the new year:

Replenish home goods such as candles that have burnt out during the holiday season. Try out a new scent and stock up on varying heights and sizes to form a collection that you can easily display on an entryway table or kitchen island.
Refresh bath towels/hand towels and bath mats in your guest bathroom. Make it interesting by selecting towels that have different textures and tones.
Add apothecary jars to your bathroom countertops filled with your favorite soaps/bath salts.
Throw out and replace old and worn out doormats and dishtowels.
Add a touch of luxury throughout your home by placing silver or gold trays on your coffee table.
Upgrade plastic storage containers with pretty vintage baskets.
Add some bling to your bookcase or built-in by selecting picture frames that have a bit of glitter or platinum finish.
Update your window treatments or blinds.
Change out sofa pillows or add one unique pillow that makes a statement.
Re-arrange your furniture (this one is free)
Lastly, create a gallery wall that tells a story about your life or passion.