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 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.
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.
Family trip in AZ
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?
Spring dining table design
Enjoying conference with my IO team
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!
One of my many visits to Lilly Pulitzer
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 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.
A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to spend a long weekend in Palm Beach. The Pink Retreat was canceled due to COVID, but a group of us decided to still go and have some fun. And fun we had. I knew a few of the ladies from the previous Pink Retreat and many through Facebook, so it was so nice to finally get together and meet in person. If you have never been to Palm Beach, I highly recommend it. There is so much to do.
I went a couple of days early. Home base was The Brazilian Court, an experience in itself. The staff was amazing, friendly, and answered any questions that I had. I booked my stay there for next year, too. The rooms were comfortable, extremely quiet, and spacious. I love that you get an actual key for your room. Honestly, you feel like you are in your own tropical retreat. The grounds are filled with little nooks to sit and relax. After checking in, I walked down to the famous Worth Avenue Tower on the beach. Bring comfortable shoes, Palm Beach is a great place to just walk and take in the atmosphere. I love exploring all of the little vias filled with shops, restaurants, and gardens. Taboo is always the place to go, so I stopped and had an early dinner. I was tired after a long day of travel and headed back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep.
Going a couple of days early gave me a chance to explore and stop at a few places on my list. My morning started with a few hours of relaxing by the pool. The pool is so peaceful and secluded, I even met a sweet dog, Lilly. I really enjoy exploring on my own. Lycette was my first stop. I have always wanted to learn to needlepoint, and I knew that was the place to go for my first project. The ladies were lovely, and we found the perfect first piece for me. I made my usual stop by the local firehouse. This fire mom always checks out the local house. I kept on walking to The Breakers. The Breakers is absolutely stunning. Old World Palm Beach. I did a little shopping at the Lilly Pulitzer store there and enjoyed relaxing by the water. Palm Beach is one of those places that I feel very comfortable walking and exploring by myself. My night ended with dinner at Pizza al Fresco, and I even treated myself to a delicious dessert. I figured I deserved it, I logged about six miles that day and five the day before.
Friday morning was our first official Lilly get-together. We all met at the Lilly Pulitzer Worth Avenue store for a shopping event. It was so fun to see everyone, enjoy mimosas, and shop. This store is beautiful. Here, you can have a custom shift or bag done. I am having a custom crossbody bag made. I can’t wait to get it. Finn and Ruby will be in the design too. Of course, we all did a little more shopping. Worth Avenue is the place to shop in Palm Beach. Many of us headed over to The Chesterfield for Afternoon Tea. A lovely experience. The table was Lilly-inspired just for us. Our server was the sweetest, and we enjoyed tea, scones, lots of laughs, and way too many desserts. The Chesterfield is beautiful as well, very British-inspired. Luckily, my hotel was a block away so I headed back to relax. The lounge at The Brazilian Court is lovely, so I stayed there that evening. You just never know who you will meet in Palm Beach. I spent a fun evening chatting and making some new friends that I have stayed in touch with.
Saturday, I was free until that night’s group dinner. I decided to head back to the pool and relax. I spent most of the day there with a few other Lilly girls. Our group met at Carmine’s for dinner. They went above and beyond, even creating a special menu for our Lilly Getaway. Dinner was delicious. Of course, I had pasta. We had a little gift exchange and everyone enjoyed that. It was so nice to get to chat with other Lilly-loving ladies and their husbands. A few husbands joined us too. We were quite the sight of all of us in our Lilly taking pictures outside. The entire evening was lovely. My friends from the previous night were in the bar, so I stopped in there before heading to bed.
Sunday morning, we went to Batch for brunch. Wow, it was delicious. I had the cinnamon rolls and ate almost all of them. We were gifted the cutest wine glasses with our names on them in a Lilly-inspired design. Some of us headed to Palm Beach Sandals for a private shopping event. Thank you to Brittany for welcoming us into her beautiful shop. There were a few vendors and of course more champagne and treats. What is it about champagne that makes everything better? I ordered a pair of custom sandals. They are so cute. I picked a light pink with a gold pineapple. I’m going to order a pair of monogrammed ones next. We headed back to Worth Avenue for one last round of shopping at Lilly. Most of the ladies left on Sunday, and quite a few were local too. I stopped at Peter Millar and picked up a few things for Bob. I stopped at The Chesterfield and enjoyed dinner at the Leopard Lounge before heading back to The Brazilian Court. I got back just in time, a storm came rolling through.
Monday, it was time to pack and head home. I took one last walk around the grounds and Palm Beach. I love to travel, but it is always good to be home. Finn and Ruby missed their mom. Bob missed me too. I am looking forward to next year’s trip to Palm Beach and The Pink Retreat!
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.
I hope you had a nice Father’s Day and enjoyed the day with your families. We have had a very busy week. I just returned from Palm Beach on Monday from a Lilly Pulitzer ladies’ getaway. Palm Beach is one of my favorite places, and I will share a full round-up of the trip soon. Our son got married on Saturday. I enjoyed helping with the planning and decor and had most of it done before my trip. Our favorite local florist did an amazing job on the centerpieces. She did the flowers for my wedding almost 30 years ago. The wedding was at the barn on his property so the theme was rustic with a little firefighter added. He’s a volunteer firefighter. Saturday was also my husband’s birthday and of course, Sunday was Father’s Day. Yep, I was definitely busy. But it was a happy busy.
Before I headed to Palm Beach, I wanted to freshen up my kitchen for summer. Each season I can accomplish this in 5 minutes with just 5 pieces. Choosing a few key pieces to change for each season and holiday makes this job so much easier. I have a couple of cabinets dedicated to my collections of cutting boards, placemats, coasters, floor mats, flags, and so much more.
Changing out my cutting board is where I usually start. The lemon theme is so fun and summery for the season. That was the starting point for my design. The glass cutting boards from Initial Outfitters by Carrie. look so pretty displayed on a stand and they also make a great gift. It is my go-to wedding gift.
Placemats are another easy switch. Personalized placemats really create that designer look. It is fine to mix and match styles. I chose the lemon placemats to coordinate with my cutting board for our snack bar. For my kitchen table, I chose the pineapple design from Initial Outfitters by Carrie. I like to keep the kitchen table simple. My Mackenzie-Childs kitchen table is my favorite piece. It is so unique and stands out on its own.
I love kitchen towels. I have different towels for each holiday and season. Bob says I have more kitchen towels than I will ever use. That’s ok, I love them. WH Hostess has a beautiful collection of towels. I simply switch out the towels on my dishwasher and ovens. Another quick change.
Floor mats are a fun way to bring your unique style to the room. Personalize one for each season. My dogs are even on some of mine. These can be used in so many ways to brighten up a space.
I added a new tray from Initial Outfitters by Carrie this year. I like to group items on trays to create a designer look. I added my favorite Mackenzie-Childs pitcher and Nest Bamboo candle to the tray. Having things grouped on a tray also makes it easier to move around when needed.
Bonus tip; I love Nora Fleming pottery. Create an entirely new look just by changing the mini. I have different minis for different holidays and seasons.
I hope you enjoyed this little summer kitchen decor refresh and found a few easy changes to make in your decor. Redecorating a room does not have to be hard or expensive. You just need a few good pieces.
Let me show you how I made my kitchen summer-ready in my latest vlog.
Wishing you a wonderful 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 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.
Calling all brides! Are you overwhelmed with too much to do for your big day? Initial Outfitters by Carrie is here with everything you need to make your wedding day a breeze. Bridal jewelry, attendant gifts, wedding day items, and a bridal registry are just a few of the many services I provide.
The perfect bridal jewelry is such an important part of the day. Add some sparkle with beautiful rhinestone pieces or go a little more traditional with classic pearls. Treat the groom to a monogrammed tie and belt. The options are endless to coordinate the bride and groom with the bridal party.
Say thank you to your attendants with a personalized gift. Monogrammed totes are always loved by bridesmaids. The groomsmen would enjoy personalized mason jar glasses. I think the puzzles are a perfect gift for any children in your wedding party.
How fun is it to see your new monogram? Register for gifts with Initial Outfitters and have your new monogram on so many new things. Head out on your honeymoon with personalized luggage. Entertain at home with a cheese board and baking dish. Enjoy nights on the porch with mason jar mugs.
For the big day, welcome guests with a personalized flag. Add a wooden cutout to a wreath for an instant table centerpiece. Bring everything you need for the day in a special tote. Share a toast with Mr. & Mrs. mason jar mugs.
Initial Outfitters by Carrie really is your one-stop wedding shop. Helping brides make the day easier is one of my favorite things. Sit back and let me work my Initial Outfitters magic.
Wishing you a fabulous week,
Carrie
Enjoy your FREE digital magazine, Summer is a State of Mind, 100 Tips for Enjoying Summer Here:
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.
Can you believe it is already June? I hope you enjoyed a nice Memorial Day and the unofficial start to summer. I love summer, it really is my favorite time of year. Life seems to be returning to a little bit of normalcy. It has been so nice to enjoy the warmer weather and be out in the gardens. My strawberry pot has really taken off and I had to already re-pot it. I can’t wait for some tasty strawberries. My herb pots are growing like crazy too. These make me so happy.
It has been nice to catch up with friends and enjoy some girl time. I had not seen one of my dearest friends since last September, and it was just wonderful to get together, enjoy a leisurely lunch and wander some local boutiques. I have really missed the time spent with friends this last year. Next week, I am heading to Palm Beach for a little Lilly Pulitzer girls trip. I am really looking forward to a little shopping, cocktails, beach, and friendship.
Here are 5 things I am loving for June. Everything you need for summer decorating, beauty, and fashion. These are my go-to products for this month and I’m sure all summer.
Beauty Society Undercover Blue Light Protection Mist. We are all sitting in front of computer screens more and this spray provides protection from harmful blue light rays. Very hydrating and luxurious. I keep a bottle at my desk at all times and spritz my face often when I am sitting in front of the computer.
ByTerry skincare. I keep going on about this line, but it is just that good. These three products are in my everyday rotation as well as the moisturizer and mask. The rose scent alone makes me love the product but they are powerhouses. My skin feels so soft and under control. Summer tends to aggravate my skin and these just calm it down. Make sure to check out my full review of luxury skincare on YouTube.
Initial Outfitters by Carrieacrylic mini-me collection. I love fun bright jewelry for summer. These acrylic pieces are so fun. Available in 20 different colors of necklaces and earrings and all personalized with a single initial. I plan to mix and match colors and wear these all season. Perfect with sundresses.
Juliska Seaside Estate plates. I was looking for a new design for my summer dining table when I came across these in a boutique. So fun and that became my new summer dining table design starting point. Exactly what I was looking for and they coordinate with any color palette. This video shows how I created my summer dining table.
Summer accessories. I’m heading to the beach and great accessories are a must. The pom pom sunhat from Initial Outfitters by Carrie will be fun for the beach or really anytime. It will match everything. A great pair of Lilly Pulitzer sandals are a must for all of the walking I will be doing. I don’t leave home without a tote. This tote from Lilly Pulitzer caught my eye. The print is all summer to me.
I hope you have found some new products to try out. Summer is a great time to freshen things up. Be sure to watch my video on 5 Things I’m Loving for even more information. If you are looking for more great tips to enjoy summer, make sure to grab the Summer is a State of Mind, 100 Tips for Enjoying Summer here.
Wishing you a fabulous week,
Carrie
Grab your FREE digital magazine, Summer is a State of Mind, 100 Tips for Enjoying Summer Here:
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
UNIQUE FORMULA
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.
THE RESULTS
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
