September Favorites

september favorites

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.

molly b originals
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.

capri blue volcano
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.

longaberger bentwood pumpkin
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.

tiered trays
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
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

Fall Decor

fall decor

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.

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.

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.

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.

 

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

Fall Dining Room Makeover And Decor

fall dining table decir

Fall is finally here, and as much as I love summer and summer decor, I was looking forward to decorating for Fall. I always like to focus on a few key areas for impact and build on my decor from there. The dining room is always my first spot to decorate. I try to change it or do something a little different each year.

This wreath I purchased at a craft fair and I think it is perfect in this space. It really brings out the fall colors in the room. I may leave it out all year too. My corner table got a little makeover for fall too with just a few key pieces.

I started with my Longaberger placemats and napkins. The fruit pattern is the same pattern on my valances and border so it coordinates perfectly. I love the pop of blue in the pattern too. The place settings are also from Longaberger from years ago. The place setting is simple with the white pumpkin and acrylic word again in the pop of blue.

The center of my table always has the beautiful tray that Bob made me. I love using it as a focal point and building from there. My Emma Bridgewater hurricane is always a favorite each season. I added the wine cooler, fall floral display, and smaller Bridgewater vases to the tray.

fall dining room decor
A beautiful tray to group items

The olive trees line the rest of the table, and I love the natural look these add to the design. The design was finished with candles from Rae Dunn, glass pumpkins, and acorns and pumpkins. The design did not take too much time, and I think it brings in the fall feel to the dining room. Happy decorating!

Until next week,

Carrie

Summer Celebration Lunch

ladies luncheon

Summer is almost over and I thought it was the perfect time to get a couple of my closest friends together for lunch. We have all been so busy this summer and needed to catch up. Summer has gone by so fast, hasn’t it?

I always like a theme. I think that makes it so much easier to plan around. Wanting to keep it casual, I chose an easy summer theme with flowers and bright colors. My garden is in full bloom so I picked some hydrangeas, black-eyed Susans, and roses to use in my centerpiece and decor. Quick tip for making hydrangeas last, cut them in the morning, put them in a few inches of water for a few hours, and dip the cut stems in boiling water for a few seconds. Your hydrangeas will last so long! I love paper goods and Lucy Grymes has become a new favorite. Her patterns are so cute and I love the vase wraps. These wraps turn any container (even a simple drinking glass) into a pretty vase. I went with the bamboo-style wraps to coordinate with a floral placemat that reminded me of Lilly. Quick and easy centerpiece and table decor.

I went with my trusty old favorite Entertaining with Longaberger book. This book is about 20 years old and it continues to be my go-to for entertaining. I picked a sparkling lemonade recipe but switched out the flavor to lavender. I love lavender. A charcuterie board started the afternoon followed by an overnight marinated vegetable salad and chicken sandwiches with a carmelized onion-apple relish. That relish was delicious. The dessert consisted of a strawberry daiquiri bundt cake from Dockside Market. Dockside Market is a partner of Longaberger and created this flavor specifically for our Horizon of Hope campaign. I also displayed the cake on the Moser Glass small cake stand from Longaberger. The color is perfect and neutral enough to coordinate with any style and decor.

Entertaining does not have to be complicated or stressful. I always set the table the night before to save time the next day. I also find setting out all of the platters, serving pieces, and utensils the night before so helpful too. This ensures that I am not searching for something the day of. I always like to send my guests home with a small goodie too. This time I found little bottles of the lemonade wine I served and added a burlap bow to the bottle. A bath bomb in a cute box makes a lovely gift too. What could be better than wine and a bath bomb? I think that makes for a perfect evening.

We had a perfect afternoon catching up. Sometimes a day with good friends is really what you need! Honestly, just spending time together is really the most important thing!

Until next week,

Carrie

 

Quick And Easy Centerpieces with Longaberger Baskets

quick longaberger centerpiece

I was having some friends over for a luncheon and needed a quick centerpiece for my foyer table. I didn’t have time to run to the market for flowers and lately, the flowers have not looked great. This wreath basket from Longaberger is actually from the holiday collection but I think it is perfect to use year-round.

easy longaberger centerpiece
A few supplies are all that was needed

The hurricane from Emma Bridgewater has been the focal point of my foyer table and I thought the wreath basket would fit nicely over it. I had some colorful garland left from a previous project and proceeded to wind it around in the basket. The pink pineapples were already on my table as well as the runner with pink monogram and smaller Emma Bridgewater bud vases. I like the pop of pink and in a matter of a few minutes I had a new centerpiece.

quick longaberger centerpiece
Quick and easy

I love the twinkle of fairy lights. They just give such a beautiful glow. This basket from the Longaberger 1896 collection is so beautiful and rustic. I love the larger weave and I did not want to put anything in it that would cover the weave. Fairy lights were the perfect answer.

quick longaberger centerpiece
Just 2 items for a quick design
quick longaberger centerpiece
I love twinkling fairy lights

These were just a couple of quick designs that I put together in a flash. I have some fun ideas for the wreath basket for fall and winter.

Until next week,

Carrie

 

Longaberger 1896 Collection

longaberger 1896 collection

The Longaberger 1896 Collection is quickly becoming one of my favorites. I started with one piece and am adding to my collection. My favorite feature of this collection is that the pieces are all handcrafted to look like they have been passed down from generation to generation. The color is beautiful, and I can imagine these baskets being used in my grandmother’s house. All of these pieces coordinate perfectly with other Longaberger collections or any home decor style. The 1896 Collection embodies the past, present, and future evolution of the basket weaving craft and an iconic, American brand. Through this collection, we celebrate our beginnings, embrace the dreams of our crafters and lead with creativity through every basket that is woven with Longaberger.  I’ll just share a few of my favorites.

The square organizing basket can be used for so many different things. A simple plant looks so pretty in it or seasonal foliage too. Add a few hand towels for a guest bath, snacks for a guest bedroom, or a tissue box. Standing alone, this basket makes a beautiful statement.

longaberger 1896 square organizing basket
Simple and beautiful

A gorgeous wastebasket for the office yes, please. I think this basket would also be perfect for umbrellas or pool towels too. The height of this basket is sure to be noticed in any room.

longaberger 1896 waste basket
 Perfect for the home office

The produce basket is my first piece of the collection. I have a strand of fairy lights in it and displayed on a shelf. The twinkling lights look so beautiful through the weave at night. Of course, it also is perfect for fruits and vegetables on the counter.

longaberger 1896 produce basket
 Not just for produce

My dining room table is my favorite thing to decorate and redecorate. How perfect are these placemats and napkin rings? They are beautiful, and being neutral in color they will coordinate with everything. I love that antique and vintage feel of these. They will definitely be making an appearance on my table soon. These would also be pretty hanging on a wall to display photos or twinkle lights.

longaberger 1896 collection
A lovely place setting

So, what do you think of the 1896 Collection? I think it is stunning, and I am looking forward to adding more pieces to my collection. I’m happy to help you pick out the perfect pieces for your style too! Contact me HERE. Carrie Kelly Lifestyle, helping women bring traditions, color, & personal style into their homes & stories.

Visit the Longaberger by Carrie Kelly Lifestyle boutique HERE.

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn easy tips to decorate your home like a pro HERE.

Until next week,

Carrie

June Favorites

june favorites

Can you believe July is almost here? Summer always goes by way too fast. June was a busy month with my trip to Palm Beach, the announcement of Initial Outfitters closing, and the exciting new adventure with Longaberger. Becoming a Longaberger stylist is such a natural fit for me, and I am so excited for the future. I really do live the Longaberger lifestyle. Check out all that Longaberger has to offer HERE.  I think it just might surprise you! Anyway, let’s get into June favorites. A little beauty, travel, fashion, and more.

the brazilian court hotel, palm beach
A luxurious retreat

The Brazilian Court Hotel Palm Beach. This was not my first stay here. It is my go-to hotel in Palm Beach. I prefer to stay on the island and this boutique hotel is the perfect place. The hotel is designed to make each room feel like you are in your own little villa in the tropics. Each room is also spacious with a luxurious bath complete with a soaking tub. The pool is quiet and relaxing and a great place to spend an afternoon. The staff is always helpful and gracious. They even came to remove a lizard from my friend’s room. The lounge is always a fun place to spend an evening, and you just never know who you will meet there. I have met some very interesting people that I have stayed in touch with since. I highly recommend this resort.

scalp massager
A treat for your scalp

I can’t believe that I have never used a scalp massager before. I love it. You know that feeling you get at the salon when your stylist gives you a wonderful scalp massage, this product will do that too. I start by adding a little shampoo to my hair and work it in with this. It helps deep clean and encourages hair growth. Here is a scalp massager that I found on Amazon that I have been using. Have you ever tried one?

home chef
Try something new with Home Chef

Do you sometimes struggle with what to cook for dinner every night? We sometimes do, and I started looking at meal services. We have been using Home Chef for about 6 weeks now. We are really enjoying trying some new recipes and I feel like there is less waste. Everything comes portioned out. I also think we are eating a little less with the smaller portions. Cooking for 2 can be hard and Home Chef is making it easy. We are doing 2 meals a week and still usually have leftovers too. I’m also finding that I am spending less at the market too. If you are interested in trying it out I have a few $35 gift cards available. Send me a message here, and I will get one out to you!

longaberger boardwalk basket
Love this huge basket

A giant pink basket. Yes, it was something I had to have. I can’t believe the size of this Boardwalk Basket from Longaberger, and I know that I am going to be using this basket all of the time. How cute to take to the beach or out running errands. Right now I have it sitting on a cute ottoman with some crafting supplies in it.

lilly pulitzer
A fun outfit for the 4th

I always wear something patriotic for the 4th. Lilly Pulitzer always does a patriotic print with their spin. This one is one of my favorites. With just a hint of pink it is still very patriotic and something a little different. I’m wearing this outfit to our neighborhood July 3rd party.

I hope you enjoyed this month’s favorites. Stay tuned for a Pink Retreat recap and a guide to my favorite things in Palm Beach. I hope you have a wonderful, happy, and safe 4th of July.

Until next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary decorating guide and stay in touch when you sign up for my newsletter HERE. I share my favorite recipes, decor, travel, gardening, tips, and so much more!

4th of July Decor & Style

I love the 4th of July. I know, I know that means summer is half over, but it is such a special day. The town where my husband grew up and that we lived in when we were first married always puts on a fantastic parade. We see all of our old friends, bringing back so many happy memories. This year, our street is having a block party complete with fireworks(don’t tell anybody). Poor Ruby Sue, she will definitely need her medicine that night.

I decided to keep my dining room and decor simple this year. I have a collection of patriotic baskets from Longaberger and I thought that they would look nice on the dining room table. I wanted to keep my lemon and blue decor and the baskets were a nice compliment. The glass bottles were a great find at DollarTree years ago, and the simple addition of flags takes them up a notch. Garlands were the finishing touch.

4th of july dining table decor
Simple and classic

 

4th of july dining table decor
I simply add to the existing decor

My fireplace area always is draped in patriotic bunting. Simple and classic. I added a USA set of letters, floral picks, glass bottles, and candle holders. I kept this simple as well.

4th of july dining table decor
I love patriotic bunting

The entry is fun with the fireworks decor. The wooden flag I painted a few years ago and this year I decided to let it stand on its own. I sprinkled a little more decor throughout the house, but these are the key areas that I try to focus on. This week will be outdoor decorating.

4th of july decor
A few fun pieces for the entryway

Lilly Pulitzer is a timeless American brand, and I love that they come ut with a new patriotic pattern every year with their colorful spin. This dress is from the newest collection. I paired it with an acrylic monogrammed star necklace.

lilly pulitzer
Fun take on a patriotic theme

I liked this print so much that I also bought the matching skort and top. Wear them together and you have what we call a Lilly tuxedo. This will be my outfit for our neighborhood party and parade. For a casual event, I paired a patriotic monogrammed tank with a pair of Lilly shorts from seasons ago. Add a pair of white keds to any of these outfits and you are ready for the 4th.

lilly pulitzer
A Lilly tuxedo

 

4th of july style
Casual look

I hope you enjoy celebrating the holiday with family and friends!

Until next week,

Carrie

How To Become a Longaberger Home Stylist/ Consultant

how to join longaberger

Hello, I’m Carrie and I am so glad you stopped by. Longaberger has been a part of my family’s life for many years, and I am excited to make Longaberger a part of Carrie Kelly Lifestyle. I love the traditional and classic designs meant to be passed down from generation to generation. But, did you know that Lonagaberger is so much more than baskets and pottery? Longaberger features a carefully curated collection of home furnishings, decor, jewelry, skincare, stationery, food, and even wine(which I can’t wait to try). Pieces designed to make your house a home full of warmth, tradition, and your unique style. Longaberger really is a lifestyle. I knew it was a lifestyle that I wanted to be more a part of. I decided it was time to become a Longaberger Home Stylist.

join longaberger
One of my favorite pieces!

Longaberger makes being a Home Stylist easy. You are free to run your business your way with no overhead, quota, inventory, or party requirements. All you really need is a laptop or phone. I know for me this was one of the biggest deciding factors because I travel often and did not want to be stressed about hauling inventory and quotas. Longaberger does much of the work for you with a beautiful storefront that you can customize and direct to your unique shopping website, beautiful product images, weekly videos with Rachel and others, and so much more. Invite followers and friends to our live stream events. Longaberger provides content for you to post something new every day. Intuitive tools and dashboards to manage your progress.

join longaberger
Beautiful, hand crafted pieces

No complicated earning plans, no minimum ordering or sales, no pressure. Just share and get rewarded for doing good. Earn 20% of every purchase you refer, and if you bring someone along, earn 5% on the sales they drive, plus more perks. All of this for a yearly fee of $49.

Sound like something you would love? Send me a message HERE and let’s have a cup of tea and a virtual chat! Ready to join the Longaberger lifestyle? Click HERE. From my home to yours!

join longaberger

Spring Porch Refresh

spring porch decor

Finally, Spring looks like it is here to stay. Actually, last week here in the midwest it felt more like summer. This week is back to rain. Mother Nature. During the warm stretch, I took full advantage of the weather and freshened up the porch for the season.

spring porch decor

Everything received a good clean. It really needed it after winter. I started with the lights and went from there. The lights look so much nicer all spick and span. I did the ones around the garages too.

spring porch decor

I always start with my potting bench. Bob made this for me a few years ago and I just love it. It fits perfectly. I only added the little watering can and birdhouse from Rae Dunn. The geranium basket came all the way back from Arizona with us. Again, I took everything off and scrubbed it all down. Mrs. Meyers geranium cleaner worked wonders.

potting bench

spring porch decorThis year I decided to add ferns to my pots instead of something colorful. My hanging baskets are ferns as well. I just love ferns, they grow beautifully and last until frost. Instead of the pots flanking the door I moved them to opposite ends of the porch. I also changed the furniture placement this year and the bench now faces the front yard. It’s such a nice peaceful place to sit and enjoy tea and a book. I hope you enjoyed this quick porch refresh.

spring porch decor

Until next week,

Carrie