how to create the perfect outdoor dining room: a fabulous chandelier

Springtime is in full flight.
Dining al fresco is absolutely irresistible.
Right now I am so inspired by outdoor table settings
that I am completely obsessing over
fabulous outdoor chandeliers.
They simply create the perfect outdoor dining ambiance.


images courtesy of...
theredbungalow
vintage domino
country living
real simple
musings of a night owl

secret of domestic bliss #18... decorating with vintage photography

If you flip open your favorite design books and magazines, it is likely that you will see photography in the homes of extremely chic and glamorous people. 
Being that I work in a photography art gallery, I have an extreme appreciation for vintage photography.
A photo creates a mood and can often conjure up a special memory.
It can speak volumes of your personality and style and gives a sophisticated touch to your home.
Lately, I have been seeing photography more and more in my favorite spaces and I am loving the look of these dynamic shots.
Black and whites are forever classic although sometimes I am drawn to shots with a punch of color!

images via stylishbird + belle maison 

SIX TO BLISS: the paloma contreras edition




Who: Paloma Contreras
Where: Houston, Tx (love it!)
What: Super chic writer and blogger for the luxurious La Dolce Vita blog among others.


I am so thrilled that Ashlina invited me to be a part of this wonderful series! Creating this list was so fun and I have loved reading about what everyone else considers to be the essentials for domestic bliss in their own homes. I think you'll notice that most of the items on my list are things that add a personal touch to one's home.



1.Fresh Flowers:

Nothing brings more cheer into a house then fresh-cut flowers. An arrangement doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive in order to be beautiful. My favorite thing to do is buy flowers in one color and put them together in full, lush bunches. My favorite flowers are pink peonies and white hydrangeas.



2. Loads of Books:
I adore books and have loved reading since I was very young. Whether you are talking about a novel or a beautiful coffee table book on art, interior design, or fashion, they inspire the imagination and give us a glimpse into the lives of interesting people or transport us to places of great beauty. I love seeing homes with stacks of books everywhere. They add so much character.




3. Patterns
In order to be complete in my eyes, a space should have a variety of patterns and textures to add visual interest and personality. They’re fun and interesting and if you keep the big items in a room neutral (i.e. sofa, drapes, chairs) they are something you can change out frequently for relatively little money through items like pillows and rugs.




4. Personal Photographs and Artwork
I firmly believe that a space should say a lot about the people who live there. Personal touches are what make a house a home. There are few things as personal as photographs and artwork. My house is filled with photos my husband and I have taken during our travels. They are special to us because they remind us of our adventures together and they say a lot about who we are. In terms of artwork, adding pieces that you love to your home make it all the more special whether that means framing a picture your child drew, hanging a print by your favorite artist, or adding a vintage or original piece somewhere.



5. Fabulous Lighting
Lighting is the jewelry of the home and so often people forget about it. Let’s face it. The outfit isn’t complete until it’s accessorized! There is something so warm and beautiful about being in a home in the evening that is beautifully lit. It can also set the tone for so many things. In my opinion, it is one of the most important things in a home and should not be considered an after thought. I have high-end pieces from Circa Lighting and inexpensive lamps from Target in my home and I love them all! They can be such a wonderful expression of your personal style. What can I say? I’m a big lamp tramp!



6. Crisp White Linens
When it comes to linens, I tend to gravitate towards crisp, white looks. I don’t tire of them as much as quickly as I have tired of linens in various colors in the past. White linens are classic, timeless, and elegant and work with any type of décor. I love the look of white linens with a fabulous monogram! The duvet and shams on my bed are embroidered with white thread in order to have maximum versatility and the towels in my guest bathroom have a modern black monogram. I dream of someday owning something from Leontine Linens. They have the most gorgeous monograms!


Paloma, you are the just the most fun girl! So glad you had fun putting it together.
I love your list, thanks for sharing! 




Wasn't her list fabulous? 
Are you guys enjoying reading the secrets of these stylish bloggers?

dear decorista,

This is the first from my letter inbox...

Dear Decorista,
Hi Ashlina! I am a big fan of your blog and I really love your style. I like how you give inspiration from all decorating styles as I have yet to decide my own. I am now inspired to get my home more to a 'stylish' standard and I have decided to begin with the kitchen. I owe it to your posts on blissful kitchens. I live with my boyfriend, in a small apartment by the beach, so we have a really small space. My question is, What am I supposed to do with the space above the cupboards? Right now we use that area  for storage (which we desperately need) but I'm tired of looking at the eye sore and want it to look stylish and not cluttered. Please help...I would love some inspiration!
Love,
Sarah K. (Orlando, Fl)

Dear Sarah,
I am so flattered that you would ask my advice on this AND that you are a regular reader (thank you!)
You have brought up a very good question that I have actually asked myself before. Everyone comes across this problem at some point. The space above the kitchen cabinets is the most underrated and unused space. I really believe that it has so much potential. 
I really love the look of collections, think matching dishes, beautiful glass in the same color or all white ceramic jugs. These should be easy to find at flea markets all over the country.
However, in your case I am really thinking that baskets would create the best solution to your challenge.
Big wicker baskets can provide tons of storage space for you to hide an unsightly mess. 
There are super great deals on baskets at Ikea + Target, if you have a Home Goods near you, I would hit that up as well.
Here are a few photos for your inspiration!


Got design questions? Email me!
Images courtesy of...
maison de lilas

the Art of Living... how to set a breakfast table

Setting the table for breakfast is a luxury I only get on the weekends.
(Usually only Saturday because Sundays we go out for breakfast after church)
I relish my Saturdays for this very reason... nothing is lovelier than a beautifully set breakfast table.
My goal is always to make is simple AND lovely at the same time.
I bring out all of my favorite dishes, whether they match or not.
I brew my favorite coffee, set out all the fixings in adorable little saucers...
I fill a pretty clear pitcher of my favorite oj...
I slice up all the fruit I have and sort in different anthropologie bowls...
I light bright, citrusy smelling candles...
I try to always keep some bread for toast + jam...
I open all the windows...
and then I sit back and luxuriate in it all!

images courtesy of...
lucyina
belle vivir
everythingfab 
belle maison
sarah kaye 
unknown
weheartit
picture of elegance 

what goes around comes back around...

While thrifting last weekend, I found a decorating book from the late 70's.
It is jam packed with decorating tips, color schemes (yikes!) and also a big series on budget decorating... (choosing a designer decorated room and re-creating the look for way less)
Here is the one that stood out to me the most.
Can you guess which room was $5000 and which was $500?
Also, can you recognize the items that are still stylish in designer rooms today?
I see quite a few.