Lazy Sunday Morning
Weekends are all about relaxing, and this past weekend we hopped in the car and drove over to the Niagara region for a little hike in Ball’s Falls Conservation area, some wine tasting at Cave Spring, and vintage shopping at Pudhomme Antique Market.
And while it’s nice to get dressed up, sometimes a hoodie and pair of men’s cotton gym shorts are the perfect cozy attire to get you through the rest of the weekend. Happy Monday, and wishing everyone a good week ahead!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to buy something, I will get a small commission from the sale. This doesn’t impact the price you pay. Affiliate links are just another way to monetize my blog.
Artwork and photos by Nathalie Martin.
Stock photography from ShopStyle.com.
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DECOR: Sideboard Ideas for Your Home
I did it. I finally convinced Geoff to buy a new dining room table.
Our previous six to eight seat Parsons table served us well for over a decade but was ultimately too bulky for our narrow townhouse and in turn made the room appear smaller. As beautiful as it was, I always knew it wasn't right for us but at the time, we wanted something large to accommodate having big groups of people over for dinner. Well, those dinners only happen a couple of times a year so we didn't exactly think that one through.
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned over the years in terms of decorating a home or building a good closet is to be patient in the search for the right pieces.
And, after years of being patient and looking, we finally came across the right table - a round four-seater with black geometric legs and a glass top with an eclectic vibe.
Finding a sideboard to go with such an odd table was going to take time but we were adamant about finding one. Instead of matching the unique aesthetic of our table, we set out looking for a sideboard with contrast. Something different that would compliment and not compete.
At first, my mind was fixated on a traditional 50” sideboard but I knew it would be too bulky for our space. That’s when Geoff stepped in and narrowed it down to an entryway cabinet measuring 36” wide and 40” high from CB2 - currently on backorder but said to be arriving in August.
Anyway, what did I learn from this? Don’t confine to traditional ideas of how things should be done. I inherently know this, yet I got overwhelmed with all of the options and wasn't able to think clearly. When you find this happening, take a step back and tackle it at a later time.
And, remember to have fun with the design process! Think outside of the box with furniture options and even where it’s going to live in your home. Follow your gut and don’t overthink it. And when you do need some inspo, head over to Pinterest and follow my Home page where I share daily ideas.
For this post, I've included some of my favorite sideboard inspiration below. I hope you're able to collect ideas for yourself - whether you're buying a new piece or just rearranging your living space. And remember, fun decorating!
Image sourced via Pinterest
Image sourced via Pinterest
Image sourced via Pinterest
Image sourced via Pinterest
Image sourced via Josh Young Design House
Image sourced via Pinterest
Image sourced via Pinterest
Image sourced via Pinterest
Image sourced via Pinterest
14 Cozy & Minimal Bedroom Ideas
If you follow me on Instagram then you’ll know that I’ve been redecorating my house non stop to keep busy. From repotting plants, rearranging furniture, and finally putting together our guest bedroom, it’s clear that I’ve had tons to do whenever I’m not working.
With a rainy weekend ahead, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to paint the master bedroom and finish up any loose details in the guest room.
As per usual, I hit up Pinterest for some inspo and gathered up my favourite cozy bedroom decor ideas to share with you here.
Happy decorate and as always, stay safe!
xo, Nathalie
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to buy something, I will get a small commission from the sale. This doesn’t impact the price you pay. Affiliate links are just another way to monetize my blog.
Artwork and photos by Nathalie Martin.
Stock photography from ShopStyle.com.
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The SSENSE SALE Is Here! My Tips for Shopping Markdowns.
Twice a year the SSENSE sale comes around I swear it feels even more exciting than Christmas. Yes, that’s a tall order but I’ve scored some pretty amazing things over the years - Givenchy high heels for $200, Isabel Marant boots from $1300 down to $300, and Saint Laurent studded loafers for $250.
Now more than ever it’s important to focus on buying pieces that will serve you well for years to come, not just a single season. Buy less and focus on quality over quantity. Look for pieces that will make you happy and feel more confident when you wear them.
Finally, review your closet, make a list of what needs replacing or what you’re currently missing - ie, a classic spring trench coat.
With that being said, below are some looks I’ve put together based on items that I have my eye on - mainly loungewear and sensible statement shoes - like those amazing 3.1 Phillip Lim platform sandals that I’m dying to get my hands on.
Happy shopping!
Take it from @josefinehj, loungewear can be really cute when dressed up with gold hoops and white Nike socks. Crossing my fingers that her navy t-shirt from LA brand, Sporty & Rich will be included in today’s markdowns.
I don’t know about you but going back to wearing normal clothes is going to be hard once we come out of quarantine. This Olsen inspired outfit is more dressed up than sweatpants without compromising on comfort.
This outfit by @rosiehw is what you would wear lounging around the house on the weekend. It’s cute, feminine but comfortable. I’m seriously hoping that these Aime Leon Dore pants will be included in the markdowns because I’m obsessed with the color!
Another outfit to ease us into normal life once quarantine is over. This outfit by @brittanybathgate is perfect for spring/summer. Since we can’t see her shoes in the photo, I styled the above lookbook with crossover sandals from Marni, which are available in ivory or black. *Please go on sale!*
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to buy something, I will get a small commission from the sale. This doesn’t impact the price you pay. Affiliate links are just another way to monetize my blog.
Artwork and photos by Nathalie Martin.
Stock photography from ShopStyle.com.
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Awesome Mother's Day Gift Ideas
Mother’s Day is just around the corner and while it’s always the right time to spoil mom, I think it’s even more fun when it’s an entire day dedicated to her.
In this post, I’ve gathered up some incredibly fun gifts you can spoil her with - from skincare to fancy pj’s, art, furniture, and everyone’s favorite - fragrance.
It’s all about pampering mom and I say go all out if you can!
Full disclosure, I gave my mom her present an entire week early to lift her spirits and it totally worked. In case you’re wondering - she got a limited edition Diptyque candle and skincare.
Happy Mother’s Day!
1// KIP SLEEPWEAR
This Canadian line of luxury sleepwear looks so chic that she’ll be tempted to wear them all day. In addition to looking great, they’re also extremely soft and comfortable thanks to the Turkish cotton which helps keep her cool at night. (Perfect for those who run hot at night, such as myself.) KIP is currently 25% off on sleepinkip.com and comes packaged in a beautiful box that’s perfect for gift giving.
2// SLIP SILK SLEEP MASK
Since we’re on the topic of sleep, consider getting mom a silk eye mask from Slip so she can get a good night’s rest. Honestly, I can’t sleep without mine anymore and I’ve noticed it makes a big difference in how quickly I get to sleep but also in my quality of sleep meaning I don’t wake up in the middle of the night. According to sleepfoundation.org, “Too much light, right before bedtime may prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep.”
3// DIPTYQUE LIMITED EDITION CANDLE
If mom is into home scents then you can’t go wrong with one of these limited-edition candles from Diptyque. The special colourful jars come in five scents Freesia (pink), Mimosa (yellow), Geranium, (red), Iris (purple, shown here), and Choisya (green). They’re exclusive to Holt Renfrew so pick them up while you can.
4// JONATHAN ADLER EYES VALET TRAY
If mom likes to keep a pretty vanity or desk situation, then have a look no further than Jonathan Alder. This valet tray almost feels like a work of art so she might want to keep it empty. In case you’re wondering what purpose it serves, I use my trays to hold jewelry, glasses, and lipsticks - basically any small trinkets.
5// BERNARD CHAIR FROM HAY
If mom is more into unique pieces for the home - check out Denmark company Hay. The Bernard chair was created by designer Shane Schneck and consists of leather and solid wood. The soft lines of this contemporary piece would look beautiful as a pair or as a statement piece on its own. While you’re visiting hay.com - check out their collection of home accessories, lighting, and dishes for yourself.
6// NIGHT RUNNER BY SOPHIA AHAMED
This stunning artwork of the night sky blurs reality and imagination with its vibrant colors and sense of calm. Available in 11”x13” and up to 50”x60” prints, framed or unframed, artstar.com is an online platform that curates contemporary works from international artists - perfect for Mother’s Day if art is her thing.
7// BYREDO BIBLIOTHÉQUE
This floral woodsy scent contains top notes of peach and plum, with middle notes of peony and violet, and base notes of patchouli, vanilla, and musk. Sounds like an odd pairing? Well, it is, and yet it works so well! Slightly sweet but intriguing, this fragrance is for those who are looking for something elegant, contemporary, and memorable.
8// CONSONANT SKINCARE HYDREXTREME CHARCOAL SHEET MASK
If mom is into natural and clean skincare or just skincare in general, this could be the perfect gift for her. These sheet masks by Canadian brand Consonant provide superior hydration and leave skin soft and smooth. It targets dull, dry, and uneven skin and is suitable for all skin types. The award-winning HydrExtreme® formula is clinically-proven to outperform hyaluronic acid, even after 24 hours; hydrates and plumps the skin.
9// ‘MY BAG SAVES WHALES’ BY GALLANT
This organic cotton tote supports ocean conservation and is perfect for running errands. It’s made without the use of toxic chemicals or GMOs and uses 88% less water and 62% less energy compared to conventional cotton.
10// DYSON SUPERSONIC HAIR DRYER
The motor on is on average six times faster, a third of the weight, and half the size of other hair dryer motors. It’s comfortable to hold and dries hair in a fraction of the time compared to other hair dryers. In case you’re wondering, yes it’s totally worth the money. I gave one of these to my mother one year and it has been life-changing in her hair care routine!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to buy something, I will get a small commission from the sale. This doesn’t impact the price you pay. Affiliate links are just another way to monetize my blog.
Artwork and photos by Nathalie Martin.
Stock photography from ShopStyle.com.
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Fairmont Royal York Staycation + The Magic of Toronto Light Fest
Nathalie and I recently had the opportunity to spend a night at the Fairmont Royal York in one of their luxury suites while we attended the Toronto Light Festival in the beautiful historic Distillery District. It was a wonderful evening first spent wandering the old alleyways and sharing in the experience in an otherwise cold and dreary month when most people are reluctant to step outside.
If you are in Toronto or planning to come to Toronto this winter, then put the Light Festival on your list of things to see. And if you’re looking for a place to stay afterward, may we recommend the Fairmont Royal York.
The Toronto Light Festival itself is an event brought to Toronto in collaboration with many artists from around the globe where they put together many amazing sculptures and interactive light displays, inviting you to get outside and experience the magic of winter in Toronto.
Some of the installations are interactive allowing you to swing on them, walk through them, watch them sway in the wind or just be mesmerized by their colours and interactive sounds. My personal favourite was the dangling light display which you could walk right through as it blinked and changed colours all around you.
They are all truly works of art and can be enjoyed at your own pace or on a guided tour if wanted. It was certainly chilly outside, but we were kept warm either inside one of the many shops or by sampling hot cider and hot chocolate at Soma and Cacao 70 or having a fun and casual dinner at the Mill Street Brewery.
Afterward, we headed back to the Fairmont and joined our host at REIGN restaurant for an evening of cocktails and food sampling. REIGN is described as a modern Canadian Brasserie with a traditional French touch. It’s surely worth a stop if you’re looking for drinks, a bite to eat, want to meet up with a friend or are even looking to entertain business associates. Live music was being played while we were there and the environment was fun and lively.
And in case you haven’t heard, the Fairmont Royal York has just undergone a major renovation. Upon entering, you will notice that the spiral staircase has been removed and they’ve added the Clockwork Champagne & Cocktails bar situated right in the middle of the main lobby! It seemed quite a buzz while we were there. The lobby itself is beautifully decorated with a timeless elegance giving it the look and feel of the 5 Star rated luxury hotel that it is.
The Fairmont is centrally located on Front Street right across from Union Station, making it super convenient if you’re taking transit into Toronto from out of town. And if you want to stay specifically for the Light Festival itself, they even offer a package from now until March 1, 2020, which includes accommodation, an exclusive walking and tasting tour, and a buffet breakfast for two.
If you or someone you know is looking for something to do this winter, this may be something for you to consider. We found it to be a fun way to spend some time outdoors and gave us an excuse to find some time for ourselves.
Just bundle up though so that you are comfortable, then let the lights guide you down each alleyway as you find something new to see and explore. When you’re done all that, it’s a quick drive to the hotel where you can retire to the comfort of your suite for the evening, have a nightcap on the main level or go out and explore the city until your heart's content. This turned out to be something that we both enjoyed and hope to have the opportunity to go back and do again soon.
In Collaboration with The Fairmont Royal York & Toronto Light Fest.
Written by Geoff Martin.
Photos by Geoff & Nathalie Martin.
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11 Best Instagram Spots in New York City
As many times as I’ve visited NYC, I’ve never experienced it through the eyes of an “Instrgammer” until now.
On my most recent girls trip with fellow blogger, Roxanne West of bonjourblissblog.com, we jam-packed as many photo-worthy sites as we could in 2 days.
Our trip began bright and early with a 6 am flight via Porter Airlines from Toronto to Newark. I’ve always favoured Porter for creating a relaxing travel atmosphere, mainly because the staff is always warm and inviting and they have complimentary snacks, beer, wine for guests available inflight. Considering the flight from downtown Toronto is a mere 90 minutes, it’s almost as if you blink and you’ve arrived.
Once we landed, we took the Amtrak into Penn Station and grabbed a taxi to Tribeca.
Honestly, this list of “11 Best Places to Visit in NY” could have been longer, if it wasn’t for our busy schedules that morning. We started with an Instagram masterclass held by ShopStyle, followed by lunch at Locanda Verde in Tribeca.
Afterward, we went to SoHo, a must-visit, to explore right before the downpour started. (Thank goodness we looked at the weather ahead of time and brought umbrellas.)
We had tea and dessert at Ladurée, did a bit of shopping at Anine Bing, The Real Real, and Free People before heading into Brooklyn to retire early to our hotel. (Btw - I don’t recommend doing this on a short trip unless you’re planning to actually explore Brooklyn. We both loved the look of the Hoxton Hotel Williamsburg and had an incredible stay, but we did all of our exploring in Manhattan, which meant we spent more time traveling to and from and spent a small fortune on cabs.)
With Roxanne West at The Butcher’s Daughter
The next morning we had a light breakfast at the Hoxton (complimentary for all guests), before checking out and going back to Manhattan. Even though we didn’t get to the Top of The Rock or the Brooklyn Bridge (the irony), we explored a ton of Instagram worthy spots around Nolita and ate the most amazing vegan lunch at The Butcher’s Daughter, before eventually catching our Porter flight back to Toronto.
Admittedly, had we been more organized we could have seen so much more, but it’s New York City after all and coming across cute spots by chance is part of the magic. Overall, we had a fabulous trip and honestly, I didn’t even mind the rain!
I hope you’ll enjoy my list of Instagram worthy spots in NYC! When you’re done here, make sure you head over to bonjourblissblog.com for Roxanne’s list. Yes, we were together but you’ll get a chance to see NY through her eyes.
11 Most Instagrammable Places in New York
1 // EGG SHOP
LOCATION: 151 Elizabeth Street, New York
Known for its iconic black and white exterior, this place also has killer breakfast and brunch and is flooded with plenty of natural light for awesome food photos.
Photo by: Roxanne West
2 // THE BUTCHER’S DAUGHTER
LOCATION: 19 Kenmare Street, New York
On the next block over from Egg Shop, you’ll find The Butcher’s Daughter, a vegan restaurant that’s so good, it’ll even appeal to carnivores. With a bright and cheery exterior and plenty of natural lighting indoors, the place is bustling but completely worth a visit. Try the Cardamon Chai for a warm treat.
Photo by: Roxanne West
3 // PIETRO NOLITA
LOCATION: 174 Elizabeth Street, New York
Just down the street from The Butcher’s Daughter, you’ll stumble across this small 1950s-style bar/eatery with a pink motif. The exterior serves as the best backdrop for all of those pink themed Instagram feeds. Once you got the perfect photo outside, head indoors for some more pink decor and yummy food.
Photo by: Roxanne West
4 // SHOO SHOO NOLITA
LOCATION: 371 Broome St, New York
This restaurant features contemporary Mediterranean cuisine and chic European decor that’s totally Instagram-worthy, with bistro tables outside and a stunning bar inside.
5 // SOHO, NYC
LOCATION: SoHo, New York
You never know who you’re going to run into in New York, let alone SoHo. Once I bumped shoulders with Ezra J William from Rich Kids of Beverly Hills (one of my favourite reality shows EVER!). And then last year I ran into the designer, Jeremy Scott.
Fabulous people aside, the streets of SoHo are lined with luxury boutiques like Isabel Marant, Chanel, Anine Bing, Acne Studios, Opening Ceremony, Louis Vuitton, and The Real Real for some second-hand shopping. Don’t forget to check out some The Mercer Kitchen for a quick bite while you’re there.
6 // ANINE BING
LOCATION: 330 Bleecker St, New York
A must-visit if you love fashion. Anine Bing carries a variety of edgy and contemporary apparel, gold jewelry, handbags, and shoes from her eponymous clothing line. Be sure to grab a selfie in the well lit fitting rooms while you’re there and take plenty of decor notes too. Everything about this store makes my heart sing.
7 // LADURÉE SOHO
LOCATION: 396 W Broadway, New York
If you love desserts, then you’ll just love the cakes at this upscale Parisian bakery. Be sure to sit in the backroom and enjoy some earl grey tea and Rose Saint-Honoré, a French choux pastry with chantilly cream and raspberries, topped with a single rose petal. Bonus points if you can score a table at the beautiful outdoor patio for some amazing Instagram moments. (Sadly it was pouring cats and dogs while we were there.)
Photo by: Nathalie Martin
8 // TINY’S & THE BAR UPSTAIRS
LOCATION: 135 W Broadway, New York
Even if you don’t get a chance to eat at this rustic New American fare restaurant, be sure to stop by for a quick photo op of the exterior of this iconic tiny pink Townhouse.
Photo by: Nathalie Martin
9 // LOCANDA VERDE, TRIBECA
LOCATION: 377 Greenwich Street, New York
Coming from someone who is an elitist for handmade pasta, the spaghetti here was sadly disappointing but everything else scored high on the list. The decor of this rustic Italian hotspot is everything, from the European style coffee bar to the exterior of the building. The food and cocktails also photograph beautifully so go hungry!
Photo by: Nathalie Martin
10 // URBAN BACKYARD
LOCATION: 180 Mulberry Street, New York
If you like tea then you have to stop by this quaint little cafe. Though teeny-tiny with limited tables for their patrons, they make up for it with delicious matcha teas in flavours like Rose Matcha, and vegan cupcakes decorated with icing resembling a cacti garden. Be sure to snap a photo of the exterior of the shop, which features black and white hexagonal tiles that are the perfect backdrop for your IG food photos.
Photo by: Nathalie Martin
11 // THE HOXTON HOTEL, WILLIAMSBURG
LOCATION: 97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn
Last stop! If you have a chance to cross the Brooklyn Bridge, be sure to visit the Hoxton Hotel Williamsburg for breakfast or cocktails in the evening. The decor here is also major goals, and trust me when I say I took plenty of notes for future home decor plans.
Disclaimer: In collaboration with Porter Airlines.
All photos and opinions are my own.
Additional photos by Roxanne West, bonjourblissblog.com.
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Designing As a Couple: How Our Opposing Aesthetics Built Our Cozy Space
Image Source: Elle Decor, Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan home
A lot of time, effort, and patience was involved in designing my current living room space. First, it took us nearly a decade to find a couch we could both agree on.
Originally I wanted blue velvet, with a powdery pink velvet couch being a close second choice. He wanted something a bit more masculine and timeless.
We were on opposing ends with our style and it took us a couple of years after getting married to truly understand and respect each others aesthetic.
Image Source: my personal Instagram @_NathalieMartin
From there we learned that a mid-century modern aesthetic speaks to both of us. It’s the perfect harmony of masculinity and femininity allowing me to layer in my quirkiness via home accessories.
It also features lots of warm-toned wooden details - perfect for my husband who dabbles in woodworking and has designed some of the furniture in our home.
Image Source: my personal Instagram @_NathalieMartin
For me, the mid-century modern aesthetic provided me with a neutral canvas to inject my personal style. Similar to my principle of putting an outfit together, I start with a foundation of quality basics - in this case, a tailored, button-tufted brown leather sofa, a simple marble coffee table, and a solid wall-mounted shelf.
Accessories are key in how I bring a space to life and I use art, colour, rugs, pillows, and plenty of colour and texture to layer in everything that I truly love.
Image Source: Jonathan Adler, Full Dose Coasters
For us as a couple, it’s about creating a space that’s balanced with both of our aesthetics, again him being more classic and mine being more eclectic.
Image Source: my personal Instagram @_NathalieMartin
There is this one piece of art in our living room by Roy Ahlgren called Homage to The Cross that I adore more than anything. Every time I look at it, it makes my heart soar. I know I may sound a little exaggerated, but it’s the best and most honest way to describe how this particular piece makes me feel.
My husband, however, could care less, seeing it in more simplistic terms as a cross, but I see it for its complexity and creativity.
Luckily, he respects my eye and my love of art enough to let me have this one, but he’s no pushover and if he dislikes something, he’ll let me know.
SHOP JONATHAN ADLER HOME ACCENTS
My Three Components For Designing A Space - buy pieces you love, go for quality, think about long term use when making big purchases like a dining table or couch.
Image Source: Elle Decor, Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan
ON FINDING YOUR AESTHETIC
It can get a little overwhelming when making a bigger purchase like a sofa or dining room table so how do you know when it’s the right piece? Well, I want to tell you that it’s really as easy as following your instinct and buying what you love and truly makes you happy.
Image Source: The Bay, Jonathan Adler Le Wink four piece coaster set
I’m big into Pinterest (follow me here!) and when I went back into my secret mood board called “dream home”, I immediately noticed some commonalities. I’d been pinning mid-century modern inspired homes for years!
Interestingly enough, a lot of the spaces I was pinning featured the exact Herman Miller Bubble Pendant lamp that we now have hanging in our living room!
Image Source: my personal Instagram @_NathalieMartin
Of course, my inspiration wasn’t just limited to Pinterest. When I visited The Ludlow Hotel in New York for the first time, I felt like I had just stepped into my dream space. I took note of the elements that I loved and brought the concepts into my home.
The leather couch for example accented with the black and white striped wool rug. It was also a pairing I had once seen Nate Berkus put together and I was so taken by it that I printed out the image and had it on my mood board for many years.
Image Source: Nate Berkus via Pinterest
From Pinterest to magazines and travel, inspiration is everywhere. It’s just a matter of paying attention to what you’re drawn to, to bring those elements into your home.
I don’t focus too much on how things go together because I’m consistently drawn to the same colours and patterns. Somehow, it always ends up working.
SHOP MID-CENTURY MODERN INSPIRED FURNITURE
Image Source: Pinterest
HOW TO PULL EVERYTHING TOGETHER
As mentioned earlier, it took us a couple of years before we finally understood our common aesthetic as a couple. One of the first pieces we bought when we finally really got serious about decorating our space was a marble coffee and side tables. We happen to score them on sale and we knew that they were neutral enough to go with anything else that followed.
The tanned leather couch came next. It was comfortable to sit in and most importantly for my husband, it was long enough for him to fully extended his legs when napping - not always an easy find with a 6’1” frame.
Image Source: Jonathan Adler Dora Maar vases via Wayfair
I’d already had tons of art from years of collecting, so from there, it was just a matter of grouping everything into colours that flowed well.
My main gallery wall features a mix of photography and art prints and so I used pink as my accent colour to tie it all in. Keep in mind that having one prominent colour or pattern will bring even the most eclectic space together.
SHOP ECLECTIC HOME ACCESSORIES
FOUR DESIGN RULES FOR DESIGNING A SPACE
FIND YOUR AESTHETIC. If you have a partner, find that balance together. You want to build a personal space that’s relaxing to come home to and brings joy.
TAKE YOUR TIME AND HAVE PATIENCE. I’ve been collecting art prints for over a decade before it all finally came together and I was able to finally create the gallery wall I’d always wanted.
ENJOY THE PROCESS of acquiring things that will bring your home together.
GO FOR QUALITY AND BE THOUGHTFUL ABOUT WHAT YOU BUY. Even if it costs a little more, it’s worth it if you intended on keeping your pieces for a long time. There’s nothing that irks me more than wobbly chairs and lumpy couches. In my opinion, poorly made stuff is a waste of money that will inevitably fall apart and end up in the landfill.
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Transform Your Home With This One Thing
Scent is powerful and has a way of elevating mood and experience. It can just as easily ruin it too, via a stinky gym bag or the smell of unfavourable cooking.
My appreciation for home fragrances truly started when I started working from home as I wanted something to keep my senses active and inspired. For example, I’ll diffuse an orange essential oil when I’m trying to focus on a project or when I want to lift my mood, as it’s known for helping with depression and anxiety.
On my self-care days when I’m masking and washing my hair, I’ll light a rose-scented candle to create a softer, more relaxing mood.
For summer I like more tropical scents that remind me of being on holiday. However, I don’t like anything that smells artificial or too sweet as it always results in a stomach ache for me. (Does anyone else get this?)
For summer I’m enjoying the Coconut & Palm scent from NEST. It’s fresh, fruity & citrusy with notes of “crushed coconut, sparkling bergamot, and vanilla musk”, according to the brand’s description. The scent comes in a limited edition candle and reed diffuser and comes a pretty a green patterned container that’s perfect for displaying on your coffee table or powder room.
And in case this one sounds too summery for you, check out NEST’s Grapefruit candle, a personal fave, or the Apricot Tea one, a close second. Both convey a sparkling, uplifting scent that’s awesome all year round.
Remember, the next time you want to transform the mood of your home, light a candle or use a diffuser.
SHOP THE LOOK
Photos by Nathaile Martin
