Fall – PINEAPPLES AND SWEET TEA

All About Home, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Fall, Food, Holidays

Embrace the Cozy Vibes: Fall Entertaining Ideas for the Hostess with Flair

September 19, 2023 No Comments

fall entertaining ideas

As the leaves change their colors and a crisp chill fills the air, there’s no denying that fall is the perfect season for gathering friends and family for some cozy, memorable moments. If you enjoy entertaining and making lasting memories, fall is your canvas to paint your gatherings with warmth, elegance, and style. With a sprinkle of autumn charm, here are some delightful fall entertaining ideas that will leave your guests ready to embrace fall.

A Harvest-Inspired Feast

fall entertaining ideas — A feast to welcome the season

Fall is synonymous with bountiful harvests, and what better way to celebrate this season than with a harvest-inspired feast? Transform your dining table into a rustic wonderland by adorning it with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and foliage. Incorporate earthy tones and textured linens for a cozy, farmhouse feel. Serve up hearty dishes like roasted root vegetables, butternut squash soup, and apple pie to tantalize your guests’ taste buds.

Wine and Cheese Tasting Soiree

Elevate your fall gatherings with a sophisticated wine and cheese tasting soirée. Curate a selection of fine wines and artisanal cheeses with a fall feel, and let your guests savor the flavors and aromas of the season. Add a touch of elegance with crystal stemware and cheese boards adorned with figs, nuts, and honey. Encourage your guests to explore their palates while enjoying each other’s company.

Bonfire and S’mores Night

For a more casual yet equally enjoyable fall gathering, host a bonfire and s’mores night. Arrange a cozy seating area around a crackling fire pit, complete with plaid blankets and cushions. Provide an assortment of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for the perfect s’mores. It’s a simple yet enchanting way to bring people together and enjoy the beauty of a starry autumn night. I love a bonfire night.

Fall Foliage Picnic

Take advantage of the stunning fall foliage by organizing a picnic in the great outdoors. Choose a scenic park or a picturesque spot in your own backyard. Lay out a vintage picnic blanket, pack a picnic basket with autumnal delights like cider, artisan sandwiches, and pumpkin muffins. Invite your guests to relax, unwind, and soak in the natural beauty of the season. Press flowers that you gather to remember the occasion.

Artisanal Cocktail Evening

Turn your fall entertaining into an artful experience by hosting an artisanal cocktail evening. Set up a well-stocked bar with an array of spirits, bitters, and fresh ingredients like apples, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks. Encourage your guests to experiment with cocktail-making, and provide recipe cards for them to follow. It’s a delightful way to engage everyone and enjoy some handcrafted libations. Invite guests to share their favorite cocktail.

Pumpkin Decorating Party

Get creative with your fall gathering by hosting a pumpkin decorating party. Provide pumpkins of various shapes and sizes, along with an assortment of paints, markers, and decorative elements. Let your guests channel their inner artists and create unique pumpkin masterpieces. Display the finished creations as a festive centerpiece.

Outdoor Movie Night

Transform your backyard into a cozy outdoor movie theater for a memorable fall evening. Set up a large screen, scatter blankets and cushions, and serve hot cocoa and caramel popcorn. Choose classic autumn-themed movies or let your guests vote on their favorites. It’s a wonderful way to relish the cool fall evenings while enjoying cinematic nostalgia.

Farm-to-Table Dinner

Celebrate the season’s bounty by hosting a farm-to-table dinner. Source fresh, locally grown produce and ingredients to create a farm-fresh menu that pays homage to the harvest. Decorate your table with wildflowers and wooden accents to capture the rustic charm of a countryside feast.

Fireside Book Club

Combine your love for entertaining and reading by hosting a fireside book club gathering. Select a captivating fall-themed book and invite your friends to discuss it over hot apple cider and cozy throws. It’s a wonderful way to engage in intellectual conversations while relishing the warmth of the season. I find that when the nights turn cooler I spend more time curled up on the couch with a good book in the evening.

A Grateful Gathering

As Thanksgiving approaches, consider hosting a “Grateful Gathering” to reflect on the blessings of the year. Ask your guests to share what they’re thankful for and create a gratitude tree where everyone can hang their messages of appreciation. Serve a traditional Thanksgiving feast with all the trimmings to bring the spirit of gratitude to life.

Incorporate these fall entertaining ideas into your seasonal repertoire, and you’ll find yourself creating cherished memories with your loved ones while reveling in the beauty of autumn. Your fall gatherings are sure to be the highlight of the season, leaving your guests eagerly anticipating the next invitation to your cozy, stylish soirees. I would love to know which one is your favorite.

Until next week,

Carrie

All About Home, Beauty, Decor, Everyday Life, Fall, Wellness and Fitness

Embracing the Tranquil Transition: Welcoming Fall with Open Arms

September 4, 2023 No Comments

embracing fall

As the vibrant hues of summer gradually give way to the warm and cozy tones of fall, it’s time to prepare ourselves for a change that’s both refreshing and invigorating. The transition from the sunny days of summer to the crisp air of autumn brings with it a sense of renewal and reflection. I enjoy the cooler mornings and evenings and try to embrace the change of seasons. Here are some ways to mentally and physically embrace the enchanting season of fall.

Cultivating a Cozy Home Sanctuary:

embracing fall — Create a warm and cozy environment

As the temperature begins to dip, it’s the perfect opportunity to infuse your home with warmth and comfort. Swap out lightweight summer linens for plush throws and knitted blankets that invite you to snuggle up on the couch. I pull out my cozy blankets and lay one on each couch to curl up in on a cold night. Add rich, autumnal colors to your decor palette through cushions, drapes, and small accessories. Incorporate scented candles that evoke the fragrances of fall, like spiced apple, cinnamon, and vanilla. A cozy home environment sets the stage for embracing the change in the air.

Savoring Seasonal Delights:

One of the most delightful ways to welcome fall is through its culinary treasures. The transition of seasons brings with it an array of hearty and soul-warming dishes. Spend time in the kitchen experimenting with recipes that feature the bounties of fall – from pumpkin spice lattes and apple crisps to butternut squash soups and roasted root vegetables. Cooking together with loved ones not only yields delicious results but also fosters memorable bonding moments. A comforting pot of soup simmering on the stovetop is always welcome for fall.

Exploring Nature’s Beauty:

As the leaves begin to change colors, take advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds you. Plan leisurely walks in local parks or nature reserves to witness the enchanting transformation firsthand. Capture the kaleidoscope of colors through photography or simply immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the season. Bring some of the beauty of nature indoors. Nature’s gentle shift encourages us to embrace change as a source of wonder and renewal.

Cultivating Mindfulness and Reflection:

Fall’s arrival invites us to slow down and engage in moments of reflection. Set aside time for quiet introspection, whether through meditation, journaling, or simply enjoying a cup of tea by the window. Use this time to appreciate the beauty of impermanence and the cyclical nature of life. I start every morning writing in my journal and reading something uplifting and motivating. Fall teaches us that change is an integral part of existence and provides us with an opportunity to grow.

Fostering Connections and Togetherness:

For women who value their relationships, fall offers numerous opportunities to strengthen connections. Host cozy gatherings at home, such as movie nights or intimate dinners, where you can share stories and laughter with family and friends. Consider organizing seasonal activities like apple-picking outings or crafting sessions to create lasting memories together. Embracing fall as a season of togetherness enriches our lives with shared experiences.

Nurturing Self-Care Rituals:

As the pace of life tends to slow down during fall, it’s an ideal time to prioritize self-care. Pamper yourself with indulgent baths, hydrating skincare routines, and relaxing massages. Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading a captivating novel, practicing yoga, or taking up a creative hobby. By nurturing yourself, you set a positive example of embracing change with grace and self-love.

In the embrace of fall, we find a gentle reminder that change is not to be feared but celebrated. This transitional season teaches us the art of letting go, while also inviting us to welcome new beginnings. Fall presents a canvas of possibilities for cultivating warmth, reflection, and togetherness. By savoring seasonal flavors, exploring nature’s splendor, and nurturing our well-being, we can gracefully transition into fall and relish the unique gifts it brings. So, as the leaves fall, let us also shed the unnecessary and step into the season with open arms and open hearts.

Until next week,

Carrie

All About Home, Decor, Fall

From Summer to Fall: Effortless Home Decor Transitions for the Discerning Homemaker

August 20, 2023 No Comments

fall home decor

As the warm embrace of summer slowly gives way to the crisp air of fall, it’s time to bid adieu to the breezy and vibrant elements that have defined your home decor. Embracing the beauty of autumn doesn’t have to be an arduous task – in fact, it’s an opportunity to infuse your living spaces with a cozy and inviting atmosphere that mirrors the changing seasons. If you have a deep appreciation for creating a comfortable haven for your loved ones, these easy transitional decor tips will guide you through the seamless journey from summer to fall.

1. Layered Textiles and Fabrics

One of my favorite aspects of fall is the invitation to cocoon ourselves in luxurious fabrics. Replace lightweight summer throws with plush, textured blankets in warm hues. Consider adding elegant wool or cashmere throws to your sofas and armchairs, instantly imparting a sense of comfort and opulence to your spaces.

fall color palette — All the colors of fall

2. Autumnal Color Palette

While summer’s palette is often bright and vibrant, fall brings with it a shift to earthier tones. Integrate rich shades like deep burgundy, burnt orange, and warm browns into your decor. Swap out vibrant summer throw pillows for ones in these deeper hues to instantly evoke a sense of fall warmth.

fall home decor, dried flowers — Bring the outdoors in

3. Nature’s Bounty as Decor

The transition to fall is the perfect time to bring the outdoors in. Display seasonal treasures like pinecones, acorns, and gourds in elegant bowls or glass vases as centerpieces. I enjoy incorporating dried wheat sheaves and beautifully crafted faux autumn leaves into wreaths and arrangements.

fall home decor, fall candles — Add warmth and fragrance with candles

4. Luminous Lighting

The softer sunlight of fall is a welcome change from the intense rays of summer. Embrace this transformation by updating your lighting fixtures. Consider replacing bright white bulbs with warm, golden ones. Introduce elegant table lamps with fabric shades that emit a soft, cozy glow, casting inviting pockets of light throughout your living spaces.

fall home decor, table decor — A simple fall table

5. Fall-Inspired Art and Accessories

Transitioning your decor also means updating your art and accessories. Consider swapping out summer-themed artwork with fall-inspired pieces. Look for paintings that capture the essence of the season – fiery sunsets, golden-hued landscapes, and cozy indoor scenes. Adorn shelves and tabletops with elegant ceramic pumpkins, artisanal candle holders, and tasteful metallic accents.

6. Scented Elegance

Appeal to the senses by introducing autumn-inspired scents. Swap out your summery citrus and floral candles for ones that emit warm, spicy fragrances like cinnamon, vanilla, and woodsy notes. Not only will this enhance the cozy ambiance, but it will also evoke nostalgic memories of fall gatherings. One of my all-time favorites is Autumn from White Barn Candle Company.

7. Statement Furniture Pieces

If you have the inclination, consider adding a statement furniture piece that encapsulates the essence of fall. A sumptuous leather armchair in a rich caramel hue or a beautifully crafted wooden coffee table can become the focal point of your living room, embodying the warmth and comfort of the season.

As the seasons shift, your home’s decor can seamlessly transition from summer’s breezy delights to fall’s cozy elegance. By incorporating these effortless tips into your interior design journey, you can create a haven reflecting your appreciation for life’s finer things. From layered textiles and autumnal color palettes to nature-inspired decor and scented elegance, every element contributes to a welcoming environment where family and friends can gather and create cherished memories. Embrace the beauty of change and let your home resonate with the spirit of fall. What change are you going to make for fall?

Until next week,

Carrie

All About Home, Beauty, Decor, Everyday Life, Fall, Fashion and Style, Holidays, Holidays, Longaberger, Monograms, My Favorites, Theorem

September Favorites

September 26, 2022 No Comments

Fall is finally here, the leaves are turning, the air is getting crisper, and the days are getting shorter. It has been unseasonably hot here so this is a welcome change. Fall decor is done and we are enjoying cooking new soups and comfort food recipes. I thought with the change of seasons that I would share a few of my favorites from September.

Fun seasonal accessories

I always like to add a few new accessories each season. Molly B Originals is one of my favorites for unique monogram pieces. You know I love a good monogram. When I saw the clear acrylic with leaf pattern, I knew it would be perfect for Fall. I picked the chic monogram style and love how it turned out. Of course, I had to get a Lilly-inspired piece too. This pumpkin is adorable, and I know I will wear it all season. I have quite a few Molly B pieces and I love that you have the option to change the pendant without buying an entire new necklace on certain pieces.

A unique scent

Scents are a quick and easy way to change the feel and vibe of a space. Capri Blue Volcano has been a favorite of mine for years. It is a hard scent to describe but it is one of those that is always recognized. Capri Blue has so many wonderful scents. I always pick up a new candle each season.

Perfect decor for Fall

How cute is this bentwood pumpkin from Longaberger? I thought the design was so unique and knew it was a piece that I wanted to add to this year’s decor. I chose the small pumpkin and this color is gorgeous. Each piece s handmade and will be in my Fall decor for many years to come. Longaberger has so many gorgeous and unique pieces for Fall.

So many options

Tiered trays are one of my most useful and versatile pieces. This year’s fall tray was made with pieces left over from previous projects. I added some garland, pumpkins, acorns, and cotton. The metal words were from DollarTree, and I thought they were the perfect addition. The little truck lights up too. The options with a tiered tray are endless.

Theorem Alpha cleanser

I must admit that sometimes in the Summer I am a little lax in my skincare. Fall is the perfect time to get back to my routine and back on track. Alpha cleanser from Theorem has been my go-to. Alpha is a resurfacing gel-based cleanser packed full of AHA, BHA, and peppermint. I only use it a few times a week and my skin feels incredibly refreshed and cleansed. I have noticed a definite change in my skin. My skin is smoother, brighter, and less congested.

I hope you enjoyed a peek at a few of my favorites from September. Maybe you find something new that you would like to try too. Wishing you a wonderful Fall season. I’m looking forward to it.

Until next week,

Carrie

Shop my favorites here:

Molly B Originals

Capri Blue Volcano

Longaberger

Theorem Alpha Cleanser

All About Home, Decor, Fall, Gardening and Outdoors, Holidays, Holidays, Longaberger

Fall Decor

September 19, 2022 No Comments

It has been a busy week so this blog will be a little shorter. I had the privilege of participating in our local NAWBO/Women in Leadership Annual Conference last week and preparing kept me busy. It was a wonderful day with 300 women enjoying speakers, shopping, networking, lunch, and so much more. I had a great time but boy was I tired. I met so many wonderful ladies and I am looking forward to connecting with them again soon.

A welcoming entryway

Longaberger 1896 basket with fairy lights

Last week I shared my dining room Fall decor. I thought this week I would share the rest of my decor. I always do a little in each room and focus on key areas to create vignettes. My foyer table is changed out each season. This year I took my Longaberger wreath and added Fall garland and acorns as the centerpiece. I like to try to reuse and repurpose as much as I can.

Love a tiered tray

Mackenzie-Childs pumpkins add a touch of Fall

Warm and inviting

In my family room, I try to concentrate on the fireplace area and built-in area. I had not used my tired tray in a couple of years and decided to fill that with all things Fall. A big impact! The fireplace looks festive with pumpkins and decor from Mackenzie-Childs.

My potting bench is so versatile

Perfect spot for a cup of tea

The porch is another favorite area. My potting bench is a treasured piece, and I always add to its decor each season. Switching the pillows on the bench is a quick way to make a change too. Mums, pumpkins, and gourds finished out all of the decor.

Fairy lights add a little glow

Perfect decor for Fall

I hope you have time to enjoy all that Fall has to offer. The weather is finally starting to feel more like Fall so I am hoping to have our first bonfire and smores of the season soon.

Enjoy!

Carrie

All About Home, Decor, Fall, Holidays, Holidays, Tablescapes

Personalized Thanksgiving Decor

October 18, 2021 No Comments

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.

Personalized Placemats Set The Stage

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.

Cork Coaster For A Tidy Table

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.

A Fun Gift

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.

A Floor Mat Is So Versatile

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.

A Flour Sack Towel Makes A Great Napkin

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!

Welcome Guests

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 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

All About Home, Decor, Fall, Holidays, Tablescapes

It’s All About Halloween

October 11, 2021 No Comments

October is here and that means it’s time to get the house decked out for Halloween. I have always loved Halloween. I remember growing up we had so much fun that night. All of the neighborhood kids would get together and Trick-Or-Treat. So much fun! When our son was younger the kids would have a great time hitting every house in our little town. Then they would spend the rest of the night trading candy. Here in the Midwest, we had many cold Halloween nights but that did not stop them!

My fall decor is done so I just needed to add a few things to spook up the place. As with all of my decor I focused on a few key areas of our home. The staircase is always a focal point because it is the first thing you see when you enter our home. I also have my front door open most of the time so the staircase is also seen when it is open. This spooky garland came from Target many years ago. It’s black netting full of lights. I added some bats and pumpkins hanging from it too. A quick way to add drama to the home. I love decorating the staircase each season. My fireplace and built-in shelves in our family room. A little garland, witch’s broom, little skulls, and a hurricane finished off the fireplace. On the shelving, I added witches, trays, and pumpkins. The dining room table look was finished off with skulls, scary words, and garlands. I sprinkled pumpkins that light up, skeletons, and garlands throughout the rest of the house. With the basic fall decor done, adding a few things in for Halloween is easy and I was finished in no time. Enjoy your fright night!

its all about halloween — Spooky Fireplace

it's all about halloween

Until next week,

Carrie

Carrie 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

All About Home, Decor, Fall, Holidays, Initial Outfitters/Social Selling

Fall Dining Room Makeover 2021

September 20, 2021 No Comments

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.

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 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

Everyday Life, Fall, Holidays, Initial Outfitters/Social Selling

The Halloween Collection From Initial Outfitters

September 13, 2021 No Comments

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.

Anything But Basic

Welcome the little goblins with a personalized garden flag.

Welcome Trick or Treaters

Include your furbabies in the celebration with a fun bandana.

How Cute Is Fido?

A fun floormat livens up an entryway.

Welcome Friends

Treat each child to a personalized bag, no arguing over candy.

Personalized Treat Bags

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

Embrace the Cozy Vibes: Fall Entertaining Ideas for the Hostess with Flair

Like this:

Embracing the Tranquil Transition: Welcoming Fall with Open Arms

Like this:

From Summer to Fall: Effortless Home Decor Transitions for the Discerning Homemaker

Like this:

September Favorites

Like this:

Fall Decor

Like this:

Personalized Thanksgiving Decor

Like this:

It’s All About Halloween

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this: