Summer 2021 Dining Table Design

 

Happy Memorial Day. I hope you are enjoying the day with your family and friends. I have been busy around here this last week. I did a small refresh in the master ensuite. It’s amazing what new draperies and artwork can do for a room. Eventually, that room will get a full makeover, but I am not ready to tackle that yet. Summer decorating is finished outside and inside. I am enjoying nice walks in the evening and time to relax by the pond. Installing a pond was one of the best things that we have done. Just hearing the water is so soothing. We have been trying new recipes on the grill and Finn and Ruby are happy to be spending so much more time outside enjoying the sun.

If you have been following me for a while you know I always change my dining table decor each season. Simply changing the dining table and adding a few more accessories creates a new look in the dining room each season. My kitchen, foyer, mantle, and fireplace get a refresh each season too. I really like the change without spending too much on redecorating.

This year I really changed things up. Lately, I have been pairing down my decor and going for something a little simpler and not so dramatic. The drama really comes out during the holidays and winter. My bamboo table runner was the first step. One tall bamboo-style lantern sits in a tray from the Lilly Pulitzer for Target collection. Instead of the usual tall vases of hydrangeas, I added glass hurricanes again from the Lilly Pulitzer for Target collection. I repurposed the hydrangeas and used them in the formal living room. Something completely new this year is the flower balls. I saw these on Facebook, and they aren’t exactly what I was expecting, but I knew I could make them work. Normally, I add a floral garland down the middle of the table, but I added the floral balls instead for a different look. I like it. Of course, a few flamingos, candles, and flamingos finished the look.

spring 2021 summer table design
Summer Table Design

 

summer 2021 dining table design
Fun With Flamingos and Pineapples

My place settings had a makeover as well. The Juliska Seaside Estate plates are new, and I knew they would be perfect for my dining table. I started with flamingo placemats that I picked up at a shop in Charleston. Pink metallic chargers were next with Kate Spade dinner plates on top. The Juliska plates look perfect on top of the Kate Spade plates. I finished the plates off with acrylic place setting toppers from Initial Outfitters by Carrie. I love these acrylic pieces and can think of a million ways to use them. A combination of napkins and napkin rings made the table complete.

 

summer 2021 dining table design
Acrylic Place Setting Topper

 

summer 2021 dining table design
Juliska Seaside Estate Plates

I will say it took me a little time to get used to this design. It was something completely different, but I am really liking the change.  Stay tuned for updates on the rest of my summer decor and how to freshen up your kitchen for summer in 5 minutes with 5 products.

Until next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a FREE digital magazine, Summer is a State of Mind, 100 Tips for Enjoying Summer Here:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFYE0AIPWpgpnNvt8wLhyXUCwa3U7QjNyonsqJjyXNFOqiJA/viewform

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.

Contact Carrie at: 

pineapplesandmonograms@gmail.com

 

                Visit My YouTube Channel Here

 

Springtime Brunch For Two Tablescape

 

What a lovely weekend it was here in the Midwest. I was able to finish my pots and hanging baskets and enjoy spending time outside in the sunshine. My herb pots are center stage right outside my kitchen door. One pot is full of herbs for cooking and the other is full of herbs for my tea. There is nothing better than picking herbs fresh from my pots. I also planted a pot of strawberries and a pineapple. I really hope the pineapple produces some fruit this year. I also spent a lovely afternoon enjoying lunch and shopping with a dear friend. We had not seen each other in quite some time. I am looking forward to everything Spring has to offer.

Spring is the perfect time for a brunch for two. The weather is warming up and I think we are all ready to get out and enjoy time with our friends again. I love spending an afternoon with a good friend and catching up. It seems like we all have so much to catch up on. I created a beautiful and spring theme table design for a brunch for two.

My Mackenzie-Childs pedestal table is the perfect backdrop for a spring-themed table. The minute I saw this pedestal, I knew that was the table that I had been looking for. My backsplash at my cooktop is the coordinating tiles to match my table. So unique and custom. My chairs are from Pottery Barn, and I love how they complement the table.

spring brunch table for 2
Spring Brunch Table For Two

Pink dinner plates from Kate Spade with Juliska Seaside Estate appetizer plates were the inspiration. Seaside Estate is my new favorite pattern from Juliska. Perfect summer pattern. Personalized pieces are a must for me. I added personalized napkins and napkin rings from Initial Outfitters by Carrie. The acrylic place setting toppers from Initial Outfitters by Carrie is so fun and versatile to use anywhere. Personalized pieces are a quick way to add a custom designer look to any design. Lilly Pulitzer wine glasses and drink glasses completed my place setting.

 

 

 

juliska seaside estate
Juliska Seaside Estate

 

initial outfitters
Initial Outfitters Monogrammed Table Decor

Fresh flowers in a pretty vase are really all you need for a pretty centerpiece. I have been using my Mackenzie-Childs Royal Check pitcher as a centerpiece. I love the blue and white check mixed with the pinks and bright colors. A monogram platter from Taylor Beach Designs will look so pretty with tea sandwiches or cupcakes on it. Nora Fleming pieces are also some of my favorites. I love having one piece and just changing the mini on it for a new look. The flamingo looks perfect on the napkin holder. My monogrammed ice bucket in a Lilly Pulitzer print is a piece I have had for so long. I have a matching tray as well. And brunch would not be complete without a bottle of Veuve chilling in a Mackenzie-Childs wine bucket.

 

lilly pulitzer ice bucket
Lilly Pulitzer Ice Bucket

 

taylor beach design platter
Taylor Beach Design Platter

 

mackenzie-childs wine cooler
Mackenzie-Childs Wine Cooler

I think this is the perfect table for a lovely brunch My brunch menu would be a delicious quiche, salad with a champagne vinaigrette, fruit salad, and of course cupcakes. Check out my YouTube video featuring my Mother’s Day brunch table for two. Are you looking forward to entertaining again?

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 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.

Five Things I am Loving May 2021

 

It looks like the cold weather is finally behind us here in the midwest. My daffodils, tulips, and hyacinth are all in bloom. Unfortunately, a late frost damaged my beautiful magnolia tree. Luckily, it did bloom first. I have been busy planting away. Most of my pots and baskets are finished. On my deck, I planted a pot of herbs for my tea and another herb pot for cooking. Is there anything better than cooking with fresh herbs? I love stepping outside and picking just what I need. I have also been busy doing a bit of spring cleaning and organizing. It’s always a good feeling to clear the clutter. Spring always gets me in the mood for a little decor refresh too. I changed out some heavy drapery, moved a few pieces of furniture around, added a few new pictures just for a little change. I’m looking forward to celebrating Mother’s Day and everything that spring has to offer. Here are five things I am loving for May.

By Terry CC Brightening serum. I mix a dot of the Sunny Flash in with my moisturizer for just a hint of color.

Radiance boosting primer. Built-in skincare. Color-corrector. Instantly brightens. Evens out the skin tone.

Infused with radiant rose stem cells, this illuminating primer creates a flawless base with no coverage. ‘Optical glow’ technology blurs imperfections, evens out the skin tone, and neutralizes redness. Deeply hydrated, skin looks visibly brighter and positively glowing. Glides on effortlessly. Available in 4 shades. Flatters all skin tones. Lightweight serum texture. Easily buildable.

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Enriched with radiant rose stem cells Brightening CC Serum boosts radiance and adds protection to the skin. ‘Optical glow’ technology mixes light-reflecting prisms, soft-focus microspheres, and color-correcting pigments.

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Helps to hold makeup for longer. Skin looks instantly brighter and positively glowing.

N°1 Immaculate Light controls redness and reduces blotchiness. Ideal for pale/porcelain complexions that need a lift. Highlights high points of complexion.

N°2 Rose Elixir illuminates washed-out, ashy-looking skin with healthy pink undertones. Also a perfect highlighter for darker complexions.

N°3 Apricot Glow revives a dull complexion and gives the skin depth and warmth.

N°4 Sunny Flash is ideal for darker skin tones and creates a beautiful bronzed finish.

by Terry cc brightening serum
by Terry CC Brightening Serum

This personalized wooden tray from Initial Outfitters by Carrie is the new centerpiece of my family room table. I like grouping things together and using a tray creates a designer look. On my tray, I added a Bamboo candle from Nest, personalized ceramic coasters, and a hurricane. Trays are just so versatile, I have multiple trays in each room. These trays measure 18″ X 12″ with a rope handle and personalization is complimentary.

personalized wooden tray
Personalized Wooden Tray

I love personalized social stationery, office supplies, and gift wrapping products. I recently came across a new shop on Etsy, Initial Offerings 4 You with the cutest designs. I was looking for Lilly Pulitzer-inspired stationery, and they had exactly what I was looking for. Shipping was also very prompt. I went with the shift dress theme in a Lilly-inspired pattern and ordered personalized notepad and gift tags. Personalized gift tags make a beautiful presentation. A little Lilly print will be framed for my office. I also ordered a Jack Rogers-inspired hand towel and tumbler but those have not arrived yet.

 

personalized notepad
Personalized Notepad

 

 

 

shift print
Shift Print

 

personalized gift tags
Personalized Gift Tags

During this last year when most gyms and yoga studios were closed, I made it a point to continue working out. I started Beachbody on demand.  I felt it was important to try to keep doing the same things I had always been doing. Honestly, I never thought that I would like to work out at home. Turns out, I really do. I enjoy getting up early every morning and getting my workout done before anything else. Beachbody has such a variety of workouts, you will never get bored with all of the choices. To end my day, I destress with a short stretching video followed by a meditation video. After that, all electronics are off for the night. I have a fantastic coach and mentor, Sian Greenwood. If you are interested in learning more about Beachbody and all it has to offer, I highly recommend reaching out to her for a chat.

beachbody on demand
Beachbody On Demand

Last but not least, another Mackenzie-Childs piece. The Royal Check pattern has become my new favorite. I added this little pitcher to my collection. Just the perfect size for a little bouquet of flowers. I have this on my island. I really wanted something not too bulky and easy to move when I want to use the island for cooking or preparing meals. I think it is the perfect piece.

mackenzie childs royal check pitcher
Mackenzie-Childs Royal Check Pitcher

I hope you enjoyed a few of my favorite things and maybe found something new to try. What things are you loving right now?

Until next week,

Carrie

How Life Has Changed In The Last Year

Can you believe that it has been a year since COVID first hit us? Sometimes it seems like yesterday, and other times it seems like it has been this way forever. I think as many people did that it would blow by and be gone before we knew it. Were we ever wrong. Between COVID, political divides, and tension it has certainly been a strange year for all of us, some good, and some bad. In the beginning, everything seemed so strange. It was awkward going out and you really didn’t know what was right and what was wrong. Many of us lost friends to COVID, and many of us worry about our loved ones who are front-line workers and battle this every day. Luckily, it seems that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Life is starting to get back to normal, even if it looks a little different.

I am sure that like me, many people took this last year to slow down and reevaluate certain aspects of life. COVID forced us to slow down. I was staying home a lot more, and it was strange. I was always on the go it seemed. Creating some kind of routine was so important because I could see how many people could fall into a state of depression during the last year. I have made it a point to keep up with the same routine and find that I have enjoyed the slowdown and change. There is nothing wrong with a little slowdown.

Self-care has become so important in the last year. Many of us really didn’t make time for ourselves. I enjoy getting up very early when everyone else is still sleeping, and the house is so quiet. I start every morning with an affirmation and then a workout from Beachbody on Demand. Honestly, I never thought that I would like to work out at home, but I really do. A morning workout is a perfect way to start the day. I follow that with time to work on my business, blog, YouTube, and anything else business-related. In the evening, I have adopted a routine as well. I do a stretching workout and meditation. After those are done all electronics are off for the night. This small step has made such a difference in the quality of sleep I get.

I also took this past year to do some things that I have always wanted to do for myself. I took classes in Interior Redesign, and became certified in the field. Creating my brand has always been a dream of mine, and I ventured into social media, marketing, and YouTube. I have found an amazing group of supportive women that helped and guided me along this journey. My friend Brenda always says Did It Scared, Didn’t Die. Yep, I’m still here. I journaled more and have been more focused on creating the life that I love and want for my family.

This past year has also shown me that sometimes people only come into your life for a short time. Unfortunately, I lost friends that I thought would always be in my life over politics. In all honesty, were they really good friends if they couldn’t respect my views? I will always respect my friends’ views and love them anyway. My circle got smaller and that is okay by me. I was sad at the loss but moved on. Many people know that my husband was in a work accident in December. It was a very scary time, and he is still recovering. Again, in these situations, you find out who your friends are. Some people I thought would be supportive were not, and other people surprise me with their care and concern.

Life has certainly been a roller coaster this last year. I am looking forward to what the future has in store for me. I am enjoying all of the new aspects and adventures of my business. In June, I am taking a much-needed break and heading to Palm Beach for a Lilly Pulitzer girls’ weekend. I hope your future looks bright too.

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 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.

Favorite Mother’s Day Gifts From Initial Outfitters

 

Mother’s Day will soon be here, in twenty days to be exact. It’s going to be so nice this year to be able to celebrate with our families again. I’m lucky, my mom lives close by and we do so many things together. Luckily, I have been able to treat her to trips out to my home in Arizona. We have really enjoyed those trips. We have enjoyed visiting the Desert Botanical Gardens, Afternoon Tea, shopping, and so much more. I always enjoy finding the perfect special gift for mom. These are a few of my favorites this year from Initial Outfitters.

The Journey Necklace is always tops on gifts for mom. I actually have one for myself with motivational words on each side. Each side is engravable with the word or date of your choice. Add names, special dates, or special words for a gift mom will treasure forever.

 

personalized necklace
Journey Necklace
personalized necklace
Journey Necklace

 

This is such a fun one, and a new product to our collection, a puzzle. How fun would it be to get the kids and grandkids together and do a puzzle? I think this is a great idea. Mom or grandma will be so surprised when it is finished. Take it to be framed after it is put together for a great keepsake.

personalized puzzle
Personalized Puzzle
personalized puzzle
Personalized Puzzle

These camp mugs are fun and practical. The farmhouse style is so popular, and these make a great gift. Fill the cup with mom’s favorite coffee, tea, chocolates, or biscuits. I have a large collection of mugs, and I think you can never have enough.

camp mug
Camp Mug
camp mug
Camp Mug

Pearls. Pearls are timeless and classic. A beautiful pearl necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings is the perfect accessory to any outfit. I love pearls and have them in different lengths and styles. A bib necklace is modern while a plain strand is classic. Something for every taste and style.

pearl glass bead bracelet
Pearl Bead Bracelet
pearl glass bead necklace
Pearl Bead Necklace

A tote bag. Honestly, can we ever have enough totes? I have one in my car with supplies, in my office full of work projects, and always by my back door to grab if needed. As you can see, I love a good tote.

monogrammed tote
Monogrammed Tote
monogrammed tote
Monogrammed Grandma Tote

I hope this gives you a few ideas for the perfect gift for mom. Honestly, the best gift we can give to our mom is spending the day together enjoying each other’s company. I know that is what I plan on doing. Happy Mother’s Day.

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 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.

Sassy Direct: 

https://www.sassydirect.com/united-states/fashion/carrie-kelly

Follow me on Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/carriekellydesigns

Check out my blog for more tips and inspiration:

https://pineapplesandsweettea.com/

Instagram:

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

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/IObyCarrie

Visit my website:

https://carriekellydesigns.com/

Shop Initial Outfitters:

https://initialoutfitters.net/ckelly  

Email: 

pineapplesandmonograms@gmail.com

 

 

initial outfitters

5 Favorite Things To Do In Phoenix

 

 

I love the desert and the Valley of the Sun. We have had a home here for quite a few years, and it is certainly always a nice break from the long and cold Midwest winters. White Sox Spring Training is what originally brought us here, and I also have family in the area. They all escaped the cold years ago. There is so much to do in the valley, and I put together a top 5 of my favorites.

  1. Afternoon tea at The Phoenician. I wrote a blog on this a couple of weeks ago. Out of all the teas I have been to, this continues to be my favorite. The Phoenician is a beautiful resort. You can easily spend the entire day there, which is what I usually do. The tea service is perfect. Enjoy a glass of champagne outside afterward or treat yourself to a spa treatment at their beautiful spa.
    afternoon tea at the phoenician
    Afternoon Tea at The Phoenician
    afternoon tea at the phoenician
    Afternoon Tea at The Phoenician

     

     

  2. The Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Gardens. These are right across the street from each other. You may think all zoos are the same, but the Phoenix Zoo is incredible. I have easily spent an entire day there. It is large and beautiful. The Desert Botanical Gardens is a fabulous place to explore. See plants native to AZ and beyond. The butterfly exhibit is an experience when it is in season. Thousands of butterflies all around you. The gardens show you that AZ isn’t all dust and dirt. Cacti in bloom are stunning.
    phoenix zoo
    The Phoenix Zoo

     

    phoenix zoo
    The Phoenix Zoo 
    desert botanical garden
    Desert Botanical Garden

    desert botanical garden
    Desert Botanical Garden
  3. Fiesta Mexicana is by far my favorite Mexican restaurant. They have locations throughout the valley and other states. I go there so much they know my order. The margaritas are fabulous as well. Authentic Mexican food in a fun atmosphere. It can’t be beaten.
    fiesta mexicana
    Fiesta Mexicana

    fiesta mexicana
    Fiesta Mexicana
  4. Kierland Commons and Biltmore Fashion Park are my favorites to shop at. They are both outdoor shopping areas full of great restaurants and shopping. The Biltmore Fashion Square is the large mall in Scottdale, but it is indoors. I prefer a quaint outdoor shopping experience. I recommend Tommy Bahama or The Mission at Kierland Commons for lunch.
    kierland commons
    Kierland Commons

    biltmore fashion park
    Biltmore Fashion Park
  5. The Wigwam in Litchfield Park is an old-world western resort that was built in the ’20s for the Goodyear Tire Company executives. It always housed airmen during the war. Luke Air Force Base is nearby. When you think of old Arizona, the Wigwam is it. Three golf courses, an Aveda spa, restaurants, and a lounge are all at the resort. You really don’t even need to leave. Across the street are many other restaurants too. I love that there are always fresh oranges in the lobby for you to take.
    wigwam arizona
    Wigwam Arizona

    wigwam arizona
    Wigwam Arizona

Arizona is really so much more than just mountains and dust. Although there can be a lot of dust at times. I love to explore new places and there are so many, it’s always an adventure. I hope you try one of these on your next trip to The Valley of the Sun.

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.

Sassy Direct: 

https://www.sassydirect.com/united-states/fashion/carrie-kelly

Follow me on Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/carriekellydesigns

Check out my blog for more tips and inspiration:

https://pineapplesandsweettea.com/

Instagram:

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

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/IObyCarrie

Visit my website:

https://carriekellydesigns.com/

Shop Initial Outfitters:

https://initialoutfitters.net/ckelly  

Email: 

pineapplesandmonograms@gmail.com

         initial outfitters

Afternoon Tea At The Phoenician

The Phoenician
The Phoenician

 

One of my favorite activities, while I am in Arizona, is afternoon tea. I have enjoyed many different spots but I always come back to afternoon tea at The Phoenician. The Phoenician is such a beautiful resort to spend the day at. The remodel a few years back  I highly recommend a stop there for a cocktail, tea, or a meal. The views from the balconies are spectacular. If you ever have the opportunity to stay there, I highly suggest it.

Tea is held in the lobby and the service is spot on. Soft piano music greets you when you arrive and the tables are all cozy and welcoming. The lobby has a beautiful view of the grounds and mountains, I just love it. There are a few different options for tea service with champagne and without. We chose without champagne because we wanted to enjoy a glass on the patio after tea. The tea selection is large, and I chose tropical tea. It was fabulous, and I think I finished the entire pot.

The first course is a variety of tea sandwiches all created by the chef. My favorites are egg salad and chicken salad. I always get seconds of those. There is also the traditional cucumber sandwich, asparagus sandwich, and salmon sandwich. All delicious.

the phoenician tea
First Course

The second course is scones. Flaky, warm, and delicious. These are served with the traditional clotted cream, lemon curd, and preserves. I always take my time and savor every bite of these.

the phoenician tea
Second Course-Scones

Last but not least, it’s the dessert course. The presentation is beautiful. Sugar overload, yes, but so worth it. The macaroon even has a little gold leafing on it. Shortbread, chocolate-covered strawberry, a tart, and more were the other offerings. Each delicious.

the phoenician tea
Third Course-Dessert

We like to enjoy the tea and are in no hurry for the experience to end. A glass of Veuve on the patio was the perfect finish to a perfect day. I think we spent another couple of hours just enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Veuve Time

I always try to enjoy a cup of tea every day. Treating myself to a proper tea sometimes is just something that I really enjoy. Enjoying the experience with a dear friend makes it so much better. I highly recommend it.

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 an Independent Consultant 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.

Sassy Direct: 

https://www.sassydirect.com/united-states/fashion/carrie-kelly

Follow me on Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/carriekellydesigns

Check out my blog for more tips and inspiration:

https://pineapplesandsweettea.com/

Instagram:

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

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/carriekellydesigns

Visit my website:

https://carriekellydesigns.com/

Shop Initial Outfitters:

https://initialoutfitters.net/ckelly  

Email: 

pineapplesandmonograms@gmail.com

Life Update

Hello everyone. I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and the new year is starting off well. I want to apologize for being MIA for the last couple of months. You know how it is, sometimes things happen in life and you just need to focus on that. My husband had been in a serious accident at work at the beginning of December. He is doing much better and should make a full recovery. Taking care of him when he came home took up most of my free time. We were very lucky to have friends and family around to help with meals and support. I have missed my weekly blogs and am going to be back blogging Mondays at 10am. I have a lot of things planned for future blogs and I hope you will follow along. If you enjoy this blog, please share it with your friends.

On another side note, little did I know that when I deleted pictures off my server it also deleted them off of the past blogs. Thank goodness I became aware of this recently. I apologize if you are looking through past blogs and all of the pictures are gone. Live and learn.

Looking forward to reconnecting with all of you. Until next week.

 

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 an Independent Consultant 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.

Sassy Direct: 

https://www.sassydirect.com/united-states/fashion/carrie-kelly

Follow me on Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/carriekellydesigns

Check out my blog for more tips and inspiration:

https://pineapplesandsweettea.com/

Instagram:

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

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/carriekellydesigns

Visit my website:

https://carriekellydesigns.com/

Shop Initial Outfitters:

https://initialoutfitters.net/ckelly  

Email:

Halloween 2020

 

Halloween is one of my favorite days of the year. I love decorating the house super spooky and the dogs too. We live on a small street with not too many kids. On Halloween night I usually have some spooky music on and make up goodie bags for the kids. I always add a mix of candy, toys, and stickers. I enjoy seeing all of the neighborhood kids and they always look so cute.

When our son was younger the kids on the street usually went Trick or Treating together and then into town. They always were creative with their costumes and many years coordinating with a specific theme. The year they did the show Deal or no Deal was a great one. We spent many freezing cold nights Trick or Treating.

This year I really hope the kids can have a night where they can enjoy being a kid again and have some fun. The kids have missed out on so much this year due to COVID. Our area is giving people the option to participate or not, and I hope people do. I know I will miss seeing the kids enjoying the night as much as they will.

Happy Haunting!

 

Follow me on Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/carriekellydesigns

Check out my blog for more tips and inspiration:

https://pineapplesandsweettea.com/

Instagram:

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

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/carriekellydesigns

Visit my website:

https://carriekellydesigns.com/

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https://initialoutfitters.net/ckelly

 

#carriekellydesigns #interiordesign #interiorredesign #redecorate #decor #pineapplesandsweettea #initialoutfittersbycarrie

Five Things I’m Loving This Fall

I love finding new things and revisiting some of my favorites. Fall is here and it is time to transition from the easy, breezy summer styles to a warmer, cozier style. These are a few of my favorites for fall. Some are new finds and others are new on my radar.

Jo Malone fragrances are always a favorite of mine. Vintage Gardenia was my all-time favorite scent, and I was so sad when they discontinued it. I have never found a scent quite like it. The Tuberose Angelica is close. Well, this season Jo Malone relaunched some of their favorites from the vault. I scooped one up along with another fall favorite of theirs, Peony and Blush Suede. Very unique scents.

My favorite scents from Jo Malone

Shop their collection here:

https://www.jomalone.com/

It tends to be a mushy, wet mess here in the Midwest. Hunter boots are a must. Keep your feet dry and stylish in the many colors they offer. I can wear the kids sizes and they are so cute with the reflector tape on the back. Add in a pair of their socks and you are set for the winter.

Hunter boots to the rescue

Shop Hunter boots here:

https://www.hunterboots.com/us/en_us/

I love Pandora bracelets and have a few of them. It’s fun to tell your story in charms. I recently took a trip to Orlando with some friends. We didn’t go to Disney this time but I created my Pandora Disney charm bracelet while we were there. I was so glad to do this because I didn’t do it in January and wished I had after I got home. The bracelet says “Where dreams come true”, and I love it. A few charms are exclusive to Disney and the charm with Walt and Mickey is the sweetest. A beautiful, cherished keepsake I wear all of the time.

Create your unique story with Pandora:

https://us.pandora.net/

I love a good book, especially when it is darker earlier at night. Nothing is better than curling up in a blanket in front of the fire with a cup of tea and a good book. I decided on something fun and lighthearted this time. We read this book, Majesty, American Royals II, in the Ashley Brooke Book Club and it was such a fun read. The story is about what the United States would be like if we had a Royal Family. The story follows a group of ladies whose lives are all intertwined. I highly recommend this.

Get your copy on Amazon:

I love changing my decor each season and the new fall line from Initial Outfitters made it so easy. Our new line is full of new designs in placemats, floormats, cutting boards, and so much more. I swapped out my placemats, cutting boards, floormats, and garden flags to create a warm look for fall.

Shop Initial Outfitters here:

https://www.initialoutfitters.net/CKELLY/

 

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 an Independent Consultant 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.

Find her at: https://carriekellydesigns.com

                   https://pineapplesandsweettea.com

                   https://www.facebook.com/carriekellydesigns

                   https://www.initialoutfitters.net/ckelly

                   carrie@carriekellyesigns.com