Personalized Thanksgiving Decor

personalized thanksgiving decor

Thanksgiving will soon be here and this year I am looking forward to spending the day with family and friends. This year I really want to make the day special for everyone and a well-dressed table will really set the stage for the celebration. Dressing the table is easy with personalized Thanksgiving decor from Initial Outfitters by Carrie. A few pieces will give any table that decorator’s look. This is how I do it!

  • Personalized placemats are always my first step. The quickest way to change the look of any table design is to simply change out the placemats. I do it for every holiday and occasion. This design would be perfect all season long. Add napkin rings and napkins and you have an instant place setting.
  • Coasters sit on all of my tables. I have many different styles for a custom look. It is also nice to mix and match to create a custom set. Coasters will also remind guests to be careful with their beverages.
  • A personalized coffee mug at each place setting would make a fun take-home gift. A personal cup also cuts down on waste. We all forget which cup is ours when we set it down. Instead of place cards use a cup for a unique design.
  • Add a floor mat to the entrance of the room. To be honest I have used mine on the table as part of my display. A mat looks pretty at a beverage station and cuts down on the mess. Set out cups, drinks, and an ice bucket on it.
  • Flour sack towels are another easy piece. They make fantastic napkins. Place one under each plate to create a beautiful place setting. Also make sure to have one handy at a beverage station, dessert table, or appetizer station.
  • Welcome guests to your home with a personalized flag. Your front porch and entry are the first impressions guests will have when arriving at your home, make it a good one!

Initial Outfitters by Carrie can help you create a Thanksgiving to remember with personalized pieces to fit any decor. Personalization is always complimentary. Let your unique personality shine with Initial Outfitters by Carrie.

Shop the Thanksgiving Collection HERE.

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

5 Things I’m Loving For October 2021

5 things i'm loving october 2021

 

I honestly can’t believe October is here. This year has flown by. I look forward to October every year because I love Halloween. It was always such a fun night when Bobby was younger. The kids ran around our little town all night and had a great time. Finn and Ruby have new Halloween bandanas to wear and I always wear my witches hat (yes, even in public on Halloween). The holidays are going to creep up on us so fast, I am starting my shopping so that I can stay on top of everything. Bob is scheduled for surgery in early December, so I want to be prepared. Hopefully, this surgery will correct the double vision he has had since his accident. But until then we just keep moving forward. This month on my radar is some great new finds, a new perfume, backpack, home decor, and more. Enjoy!

  • Tiffany Love Tiffany perfume. WOW. This is a fabulous and unique scent. I first tried this at Nordstrom a few months ago and when I was in Chicago last time I picked up a bottle. This is how it is described by Tiffany: A tribute to modern love, Tiffany & Love fragrances share a common hero, blue sequoia. This vibrant woody note unifies the two scents, honoring the many ways love brings two people together. Created by renowned perfumers Honorine Blanc and Marie Salamagne, Tiffany & Love Eau de Parfum for Her is a floral, woody scent. The fragrance opens with a burst of bright and sparkling top notes, beginning with blue basil–a botanical ingredient developed exclusively for Tiffany–paired with grapefruit for an aromatic crispness. The sweet floral bouquet of neroli is at the heart of the fragrance, with a woody blend of blue sequoia. Vetiver and cedarwood are at the base, creating a faceted and feminine scent. I am loving this scent!

 

5 things i'm loving october 2021
A Beautiful Fragrance
  • Herb prints. I had been looking everywhere for some herb prints for my hallway and was having no luck anywhere. Enter Amazon, I found these and they were just what I was looking for. Simple with a rustic frame. The size was perfect to fill a space in my hallway and they look great with my new sconces for that modern farmhouse feel. I have really been gravitating towards more natural and rustic decor lately. My herb pots on my dining room table are going to be a staple each season.

 

5 things i'm loving october 2021
Herb Prints
  • Black vegan leather backpack. I love a backpack especially when traveling. So handy to carry around an airport. I also just like having one for everyday use. I have a couple of backpacks but not a grown-up backpack. This vegan leather backpack from Initial Outfitters was exactly what I was looking for. A very grown-up version of the kid’s backpack. I decided on a gold embossed monogram to match the gold hardware. Definitely, a piece I will be carrying all season!

 

5 things i'm loving october2021
The Grown-Up Backpack
  • Halloween shirts. October means Halloween shirts, and I always add a few to my collection each season. I ordered a few from my friend’s Etsy shop, The Caffeinated Hair Fairy, and customized them in pink. They turned out perfect. What is Halloween without a Hocus Pocus shirt? I found this one on Amazon and picked up a few others too.

 

5 things i'm loving october 2021
It’s All A Bunch Of Hocus Pocus

 

  • Burberry twilly. As soon as I ordered my new black backpack I knew that I wanted a new twilly for it. A twilly is such a versatile accessory to have in your accessory wardrobe. Wear one as a scarf, in your hair, attached to a bag, or a million other uses. You can’t go wrong with a classic print from Burberry. I am a huge fan of Burberry, a classic and elegant brand. In Chicago, I stopped at the Michigan Avenue store to pick one up and the staff could not have been sweeter. I knew exactly the twilly that I was looking for, the classic Burberry plaid. It looks fantastic on my backpack.

 

5 things i'm loving october 2021
A Designer Twilly Is A Staple

Quite a variety this month. I hope you found something that piqued your interest. Let me know if you try any of my October favorites.

Until next week,

Carrie

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

5 Fall Fashion Trends

5 fall fashion trends

Fall is finally here in the Midwest. You know what that means? It’s time to trade in sundresses and sandals for warm comfortable clothing and cute boots! I love summer but am ready for the cozy fall season this year. It has been such a hot summer. I’m looking forward to bonfires, cozy nights by the fire, and hot chocolate! Switching wardrobes each season does not have to be hard. With just a few well-chosen pieces you can be on-trend for fall. It’s too hard to follow every trend, and I know not every trend looks good on me. I carefully pick a few that are my style and add those to my wardrobe. These are 5 fall fashion trends that I am embracing this year!

  • Tunics. A great tunic is such a versatile piece to add to any wardrobe. I have quite a few in neutral and bold colors. Layer a tunic under a vest or cardigan. Perfect for those days that are cooler in the morning and warmer in the afternoon. Leggings and jeans always look stylish paired with a tunic. There are so many ways to go with a tunic, dress it up or down. A go-to for me all season.

 

personalized tunic
A bright tunic for Fall
  • Cowboy boots. I love a good pair of cowboy boots. To be honest, I even wear them with my Lilly! A comfortable pair of boots can’t be beat. I live in mine all fall and winter and pair them with dresses, jeans, leggings, and skirts. There are so many great options and styles available too. Two of my favorite brands are Roper and Laredo.

 

5 fall fashion trends
Boots For All-Season
  • Rustic metallic jewelry. This season Initial Outfitters launched a new finish, Tuscany. Honestly, I was not sure if I liked it. I think I was so used to everything so bright and shiny in the summer that this finish looked too dull to me. Boy, was I wrong. I ordered a couple of pieces and I was hooked. The finish is beautiful and looks great paired with other finishes and metals. A great tip is to mix up the metals.

 

5 fall fashion trends
Rustic and metallic

 

5 fall fashion trends
Tuscany finish
  • A poncho. Ponchos are staples in my wardrobe. I carry a jacket or poncho everywhere, even in the summer. I especially am thrilled when I come across a shorter poncho, many times they can be too long on me. A poncho can be layered over anything and there are so many cute styles out there. I recently bought a beautiful rust-colored one and a neutral off-white one for fall. Those two will be in my rotation all season.

 

fall fashion trends
A Poncho Is A Versatile Piece
  • A backpack. A great backpack is so practical and stylish. Sometimes a backpack can look too childish. A vegan leather backpack with beautiful gold hardware is a fantastic grown-up version of the backpack. A monogrammed backpack from Initial Outfitters is even better. I have a clear bamboo-like backpack from Lilly Pulitzer that is perfect for summer but I needed one for fall/winter and this one is perfect. A backpack is also a great bag for travel too!

 

5 fall fashion trends
The Grown-Up Backpack
  • Bonus Tip. I love a beautiful twilly on my bag, especially on my backpacks. I picked this one up at Burberry last month in Chicago. A twilly is so versatile, wear it in your hair, tied to a bag, or as a scarf. A designer twilly is a great investment piece and a favorite of mine.

 

5 fall fashion trends
A Designer Twilly Is A staple

It looks like I am ready for fall and the cooler weather with these great pieces. What pieces are you adding to your fall wardrobe? I would love to hear what your favorite fall pieces are. Enjoy the beauty of fall!

Until next week,

Carrie

Carrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

carrie kelly

Fall Dining Room Makeover 2021

fall dining room makeover 2021

 

It may not feel like fall here in the Midwest yet but that didn’t stop me from fall decorating. This year I started in the dining room and decided on a new theme and look. I wanted something more rustic and natural this year. I only purchased a few things and everything else was repurposed. That’s what I love, using what you have and adding just a few things for a new look.

My first step is always a custom table runner. A custom table runner is an easy way to give a decorator’s look to a design. The personalized placemats were also new this year as they matched my new theme and my personalized napkins and rings are always on my table. A pumpkin at each place setting will make a unique place card with a simple name tag tied to it. I decided on this candle display from Rae Dunn that I found at HomeGoods as the centerpiece instead of the usual tall-tiered tray. The glow of the candles is so pretty at night. Adding potted olive trees and herbs created the natural look that I was looking for. I decided not to add any colorful mums this year. The plants were also new. The colorful mums were repurposed in another part of the house. Glass pumpkins from Pier 1 were the only hint of orange in this year’s display. The mason jars from Initial Outfitters were also new this year. These will be used year-round. Taking my extra pumpkins and sunflowers I filled in the empty spaces of the table.

fall dining room makeover 2021

 

fall dining room makeover 2021

 

fall dining room makeover 2021

I’m really happy with the finished product and look. It is so easy to create the same looks year after year and I knew this year I was looking for something different. To me, it is a very soothing and relaxing room to spend time in. What do you think?

 

Until next week,

Carrie

 

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

carrie kelly

The Halloween Collection From Initial Outfitters

pesonalized halloween

Halloween will soon be here. Halloween is one of my favorite days of the year. I always decorate the house and play spooky music. My dogs even join in the fun with bandanas and costumes. It is so fun seeing the kids dressed up and enjoying an evening of fun! Adding in a little Halloween fun is easy with Carrie Kelly Initial Outfitters Personalized Boutique. Offering a variety of personalized bags, gifts, and home accessories decorating your home and outfitting your kids and furbabies will take no time at all. Personalization is always complimentary.

Shop the Halloween collection HERE.

  • A fun insulated mug is always a must. Keep your cider or hot chocolate warm on a cold night.
  •  Welcome the little goblins with a personalized garden flag.
  •  Include your furbabies in the celebration with a fun bandana.

 

  • A  fun floormat livens up an entryway.
  • Treat each child to a personalized bag, no arguing over candy.

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

 

personalized halloween products

5 Things I’m Loving, September 2021

I can’t believe September is here. The year is flying by. I have even thought about starting holiday shopping because I think shipping is going to be an issue everywhere this year. We enjoyed a week in Arizona and a quick trip to Chicago. I hope you enjoyed my Arizona recap blog last week. We are lucky to have a place to retreat and relax at. Of course, a few days in Chicago is always a good time. We did a little shopping and took in a Sox game. Our rescue, Miss Ruby Sue is celebrating her one-year anniversary with us. It still amazes me how easily she fit in here. The minute she saw us I think she knew she was home. Her previous owner became ill and had to surrender her. I can’t even imagine how hard that was. I love my fur babies so much. The boys have been moving into their new house. I’ll share some pictures when they get settled. Of course, I’m happy to help decorate and landscape! Busy, busy, busy! These are my top 5 things I’m loving for September 2021.

  • Olive decor. This year I am switching up some of my fall decor. My dining room is a different theme this year. I’m going with a more natural and earthy look with olive trees, garlands, and white pumpkins. I picked up some olive trees at Hobby Lobby and ordered pumpkins and garlands on Amazon. I have really been gravitating towards more natural decor lately.

 

5 things i'm loving september 2021
Going with white this year

 

5 things i'm loving september 2021
Olive trees from Hobby Lobby
  • Bath and Body Works Open Sky. I change my scents every season and holiday. I feel that scents can really enhance the feel of a space. It’s time for some warmer scents. Open Sky literally smells like the open sky, fresh and warm. It is described as fresh air, wild blackberries, soft violet, and comforting vanilla. Sounds perfect to me!

 

5 things i'm loving september 2021
My new favorite for fall!
  • Initial Outfitters Tuscany Collection. Fall fashion calls for metallics and bold accessories. The Tuscany Collection from Initial Outfitters is gorgeous. To be honest, I wasn’t sure if it would be too brown for me. I ordered a few pieces and immediately fell in love with the pieces. Necklaces and bracelets that have the layered look create instant style. This collection will be in my rotation all season long.

 

5 things i'm loving september 2021
Tuscany Collection
  • Lilly Pulitzer Water Bottles. I am one of those people that carries a water bottle everywhere. I try to drink as much water as possible. If I am going to carry a water bottle around, it might as well be a cute one. Lilly Pulitzer water bottles are my favorites. The patterns are bright, cheery, and colorful. Makes drinking all of my water a little easier.

 

5 things i'm loving september 2021
Lilly Pulitzer water bottles
  • Mother’s ring. I celebrated a big birthday this year and the boys bought me the most beautiful gift. A mother’s ring. My son’s birthstone is surrounded by mine and my husband’s. They designed it and hand-picked the stones too. It was the most incredible gift.

 

5 things i'm loving september 2021
My beautiful family ring

I hope you enjoyed 5 Things I’m Loving, September 2021. Before you know it, Halloween will be here. I really enjoy dressing up and decorating the house for Halloween. My friends and I do a witches walk and I hope the event happens this year. We get dressed up and spend the evening visiting local pubs. Last time there were at least 100 of us, quite a sight to see. I hope you enjoy the change of the seasons and all that fall has to offer!

Until next week,

Carrie

P.S. Enjoy a complimentary guide, Top Tips To Give Your Home That Decorator’s Touch Here:

http://decoratingguide.carriekellydesigns.com

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

http://links.carriekellydesigns.com

Tips To Give Your Home A Decorator’s Touch

tips to give your home the decorators touchHave you often wondered how decorators do it? How do they create a warm and inviting look in the home? They make it look so easy. 

I have always enjoyed decorating and redecorating my home, even as a child. As an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist, I have learned the tips, tricks, and tools of the trade. I’m sharing my top three tips with you! 

Refreshing and adding personality to your home does not have to be time-consuming or expensive. These tips are quick, and easy and will have you on your way to that decorator’s look in no time. 

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

FRESH FLOWERS

The quickest and easiest way to bring that decorator’s touch to your home is with fresh flowers. I always have fresh flowers in my kitchen. I really enjoy them. Most local markets now have a floral department carrying a wide variety of floral selections. Grab a bouquet while grabbing your groceries. What could be easier? Separate the bouquet and create multiple arrangements. If you are lucky enough to have flowers in your yard cut some and make your own arrangement. I cut my roses and hydrangeas often to create my own arrangement. Pick yourself up a bouquet on your next trip to the market! 

Pro Tip: Remove most of the leaves from the flowers for that professional florist look!

tips to give your home a decorators touch
Fresh Flowers Are Always In My Home

PERSONALIZED ACCESSORIES

Personalized accessories are another easy trick to add style and personality to your home. I think personalized pieces are a great way to get the high-end decorator’s look without the decorator’s pricetag. Concentrate on a few key areas to personalize. Some of my favorite spots to use a personalized piece are a custom table runner on the dining table, a personalized cutting board displayed in the kitchen, and a set of personalized coasters in every room. Again, this does not take too much time to create. 

Pro Tip: Try a modern monogram, stacked monogram, word, or phrase for an even more custom look!

tips to give your home a decorators touch
Personalized Pieces Create A High-End Look

 

tips to give your home a decorators touch
Mason Jars Can Be Used Many Ways

LAYERING AND DIMENSION 

Designers always layer spaces. It creates a sense of depth and dimension. On this console table on my balcony, I propped a picture behind everything else. The wall is quite large and this trick gives it dimension, not everything is in a straight line. Adding greenery is another way to add layers and dimension. If possible try to create a triangle shape with your accessories. I have created one with the picture, letter K, and the basket of greenery. The bottom shelf creates another with the hampers, picture, and pot of greenery. Your eye will follow the triangle. 

Pro Tip: Add a black accessory to every room. Black gives the eye a place to land and rest!

tips to give your home a decorators touch
Add Layers And Dimension

Carrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

Find her at:

                  https://initialoutfitters.com/?ref=ckelly

                   https://pineapplesandsweettea.com/                                                

                   https://www.facebook.com/IObyCarrie

                   https://www.instagram.com/pineapplesandmonograms/

                   pineapplesandmonograms@gmail.com  

 

 

5 Tips for A Successful Vendor Event

5 tips for a successful vendor event

 

Finally, we are back to in-person vendor events, and I could not be happier. Vendor events are something that I look forward to, and I have really missed them. Recently, I did my first event post-Covid, and it was so much fun. One of the best parts of a vendor event is getting to know other vendors and making connections. The venue I was at is one of my all-time favorites. It is a beautifully restored barn in the country and I have participated in many events there.

How do you make a vendor event successful? I used to be so nervous attending events even though I really enjoyed them. I also used to make them way too hard on myself and that just added to my stress level. It doesn’t have to be perfect, and nobody will know if you forgot something or something is just not right. These are my tried and true tips for a successful vendor event.

  • Less is more. I wish somebody would have taken the time to tell me this a long time ago. I used to haul all of my products to every event because I figure the one time I didn’t bring something would be the one time that someone wants to see that particular product. It took me forever to set up and tear down, not fun. Now that I am bringing less to events, my display looks so much cleaner and it is easier to navigate.
5 tips for a successful vendor event
Less is more in a display

 

5 tips for a successful vendor event
A colorful display catches the eye

 

  • Create a theme. I love a good theme and have so much fun creating displays. This does not have to be expensive. I search my house for items that would be appropriate for displays and setups. For the barn event I did, it was in the summer so I brought a surfboard that I display jewelry on, pineapples, little beach chairs, and trays. These were all pieces from my home. For the next event there I will do a more rustic theme as this event is in the fall. For the holidays, I use trees, garlands, and lights. Nothing too hard, keep it simple here too.

 

5 tips for a successful vendor event
Think outside of the box with displays

 

5 tips for a successful vendor event
A fun winter/holiday theme

 

  • Engage with your potential customers. Don’t you hate when you stop at a booth at an event and you are ignored? Especially if you are interested in something. I understand if someone is tied up talking with someone else. To combat this I actually made a video of myself and my products and demos that plays on my computer on a loop. Most people usually stop to watch. I created it on clideo. Just chit-chatting with a potential customer can make all of the difference. It does not even have to be about your products. Compliment them on their outfit, bag, etc.

 

5 tips for a successful vendor event
Engage with potential customers

 

  • Provide a little goodie. There are so many inexpensive ways to make a little take-home goodie to pass out. I will buy flavored tea bags at DollarTree and put a couple in a small jewelry bag with a sugar cube, a little spoon from DollarTree, and a business card. I have also done hot chocolate and apple cider packets. Another favorite is a hair tie with my company name wrapped around s business card, a little wine charm. Amazon or Oriental Trading is a great resource for those. Candy is always good too. I try to tailor my goodie to my event if I can.

 

 5 tips for a successful vendor event
Gift for a winery event

 

5 tips for a successful vendor ev
Fall goodie for events

 

  • Have fun. The most important thing at a vendor event is just to have fun. Enjoy meeting and chatting with new people. Visit with other vendors. That is how I find out about other events. You never know who will meet at your next vendor event.

 

5 tips for a successful vendor event
Remember to just have fun!

 

I hope these tips help you with your next vendor event. Don’t overthink it or go too crazy. Trust me, I speak from experience. I am much happier now that I have pared things down and I am able to relax and enjoy it that much more. Most importantly, have a great time!

Until next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide to proper monogram etiquette here.

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Independent Consultant with Initial Outfitters. She is available to assist you in creating a beautiful, personalized, and welcoming home, bridal planning, personalized jewelry, and accessories for yourself, and to help you select the perfect gift for every occasion. She is also the author of         Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle Blog.

 

carrie kelly

Three Easy Tips To Start Your Day Right

 

Do you struggle with starting your day off right? I had been for a while. Pre-COVID, I had a morning routine that I really didn’t stray from. When we were all on lockdown, the yoga studio was closed, coffee shops and restaurants were closed, it seemed like everything we took for granted was closed. Thankfully, most places have opened back up and life has somewhat returned to normal. We are starting to travel again, and I have enjoyed getting back to travel.

I knew that during COVID I needed to create a new routine. I am a creature of habit and like structure and routine. These are three easy ways that I have found to make my morning start out on the right foot. Starting the day off on a positive note just makes the rest of the day even better.

  • Affirmation card and journaling. I start every morning by pulling an affirmation card from this deck and writing in the Five Minute Journal. I really enjoy this journal, just 5 minutes in the morning and 5 minutes in the evening. A few motivating words and thoughts start the day off right.
    Five-minute journal is my go-to journal

    Affirmation Deck I use every day
  • Working out. After my affirmation card and journaling, I get my workout in first thing in the morning. If I don’t do it then, I will get too busy and put it off. I have been doing Beachbody on Demand this last year. There are so many varieties of programs you won’t get bored. A morning workout gives you a boost of positive energy to start the day. I make sure to set my equipment out the night before so I have no excuse in the morning.

    I set all of my equipment out the night before
  • Lemon water. A simple glass of lemon water every morning is so beneficial for your body. I am not a coffee drinker, and a glass of lemon water does the trick for me. I have been trying to drink more water and I really like making my own flavored waters too. Lemon, lime, and mint is my favorite combination.

    Lemon water starts the day off right

This is the way I start my day. Just a few simple things can make such a positive impact and really set the tone for a positive and productive day. How do you start your day?

If you like this I invite you to enjoy a free guide to proper monogram etiquette here:

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Senior Outfitter with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

 

carrie kelly
Visit My YouTube Channel

A Little About Me

carrie kelly

 

I thought it was time to sit down and do a little get to know me for everyone. Welcome to everyone new. First, I hope you are enjoying following along on the blog as much as I enjoy creating it. It’s just a little peek into my world and all of the things that I enjoy.

I am living in the same area I was born in. Actually, my whole family is still here too. Luckily, I do get to escape the cold winters to my home in Arizona. I have quite a bit of extended family in Arizona too. The best of both worlds. A few weeks ago, I celebrated my 50th birthday. Bob and I have been married for 29 years and have one son Bobby and son-in-law Cody. We are fur parents to Yorkies Finn and Ruby too. They are the most spoiled little Yorkies. Finn has been with us since he was a puppy, and Ruby was adopted about a year ago. She is a senior and her owner passed away. One look at her and I couldn’t resist.

carrie kelly
Family trip in AZ

 

carrie kelly
Two spoiled pups

 

I have always enjoyed fashion and most importantly decorating. Even as a kid I was always redecorating my room. Those passions led me to Initial Outfitters and last year to becoming an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist. I can combine my love of all things monogrammed with my love of interior redesign. Interior redesign is taking a space and making it better with just a few changes. Changing my decor for each holiday and season is something I am known for. I love creating new tablescapes and looks throughout my home. I really enjoy all things about home, cooking, gardening, and creating a space full of love and happiness. This year I have really gotten more into vegetable and herb gardening. I am hoping to find a space for a bigger kitchen herb garden next year. Is there anything better than picking vegetables and herbs from your own garden?

carrie kelly
Spring dining table design

 

carrie kelly
Enjoying conference with my IO team

 

carrie kelly
The start of my herb pots

 

If you have been following me for a while, you know that I am a Lilly Pulitzer lover. I have met so many friends through my love of Lilly and the Lilly groups. Next year, I am attending the Pink Retreat in Palm Beach. Sadly it was canceled this year due to COVID. A group of us still went and had a lovely time. Charleston and Disney are other favorites that I love to visit. My other passion is yoga and working out. My favorite yoga class is aerial yoga. Who wouldn’t want to fly in the air like a circus performer? So much fun!

carrie kelly
One of my many visits to Lilly Pulitzer

 

carrie kelly
With my pal Buzz

Honestly, I am pretty simple at heart. Give me a glass of tea or Veuve, a good book, and my pond and I am a very happy girl. I hope you enjoyed a little bit about me and hope you continue to follow my journey.

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Senior Outfitter with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

carrie kelly