Holiday Outdoor Decor

Outdoor winter decor makes me so happy. I love seeing all of the lights around town glowing and sparkling during the cold winter months. It gets dark so early in the winter and all of the lights just look beautiful.

This year I went with some black and white buffalo check mixed with my touches of pink and green Lilly inspired touches. It gets so windy here sometimes we decided a few years ago not to put lights across the entire house. It seems like we would get them up and some would blow off or go out and it would drive me crazy. Now we just hang a large wreath in the foyer window and I think it gives just the same look. My garland on the door is also lit and trimmed with bows in the corners and pink and green ornaments. Last year I purchased the ball topiaries on Amazon and just love them. I keep them out all year and just add lights at the holidays. Just a classic look. The personalized garden flag is from Initial Outfitters by Carrie. My potting bench was trimmed with a large lantern and pot, simple and festive. I change out the pillows on my bench and the tables have a wreath and lantern on them too. Can you tell I love lanterns? They just make everything pretty. A tree in the corner completes the porch. My coach lanterns all have a wreath with lights and pink and green ornaments. A different look instead of swags. I saw this look at Opryland Hotel and thought it was so pretty. A simple lit tree and pots with greenery complete the decor. Simple, classic, and elegant with a touch of fun Lilly whimsy.

Enjoy the holiday season and beautiful decor.

Until next week,

Carrie

October Favorites

october favorites

October favorites, I can’t believe that I am already writing October. How fast has this year gone? I will admit that I have already started holiday planning and shopping. October is always an in-between month. The weather can be warm, cold, or anywhere in the middle. It certainly has been here. I fell in love with a new jewelry line this month, a favorite new book, a new beauty tool, and more. Enjoy this month’s favorites.

bronwen jewelry
Jewelry for the active lifestyle

Bronwen jewelry has become a new favorite of mine. I first came across it at the boutique I’m working at, and the pieces are so pretty. My favorite part is that they are designed by an active woman looking for jewelry to hold up to workouts, outdoor activities, swimming, sleep, water, and just about anything else you can think of. These pieces are designed to leave on and stay beautiful. I have been adding to my collection often.

longaberger holiday shop
Longaberger Holiday Shop

It’s never too early to start shopping and planning for the holidays. The Longaberger Holiday Shop is full of baskets, pottery, glassware, ornaments, and much more to make the holiday season a breeze. I ordered the mittens basket which is the inspiration for this year’s staircase design. I also added a few mini baskets and an ornament to my collection. Baskets are an easy way to decorate and organize a beautiful holiday table. I use many of my baskets for our annual Christmas Eve event.

spooky snack mix
Spooky snack mix

We were having a Hocus Pocus dinner and movie night and I was looking for a fun and spooky treat to serve. Snack mix, it’s always a favorite and easy to change up for any season, holiday, or theme. For this spooky snack mix, I combined Bugles, pepitas, microwave kettle corn,  and dried cranberries. I melted some white chocolate to drizzle over it and then added candy corn and M&M’s. It was delicious and a big hit!

jade roller
A must for your skin

I recently started using a jade roller, and OMG why have I not been using this? I have been using it every night after I apply my serum and the results are immediate. My skin looks smooth and my product is absorbed even better into my skin. I also love the cooling sensation on my skin too.

daily book of sunshine
Morning inspiration

I start every morning by writing in my journal and with a little inspiration. I came across this book on Amazon and picked it up. The Little Book of Daily Sunshine. It’s bite-sized pieces of inspiration to start the day. Many of these little nuggets will get you thinking and I am always looking for ways to be more positive and inspired.

I hope you enjoyed my October favorites. The rest of the year is going to go even faster. Make sure to stop and enjoy it all!

Until next week,

Carrie

Shop my favorites here:

Bronwen Jewelry

Longaberger Holiday Shop

Jade roller

Little Book of Daily Sunshine

 

Fall Must-Have Skincare Ingredients

Do you tend to not be as proactive with skincare during the summer months? I know that I sometimes am, and my skin is very reactive during the warm summer months. But, Fall is here and it is time to get the skin back in shape. Rewind by Theorem has done wonders for my skin. A simple 3-step system that is easy, affordable, and backed by science. Theorem has put together this list of ingredients that you should be looking for in skincare.

Oh, fall, how we love you. It’s time to talk about skincare with the cooler temperatures approaching us. Of course, spring, summer, and winter all have a special place in our hearts, but It’s time to cue the sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and the additional moisturizers, serums, and acids.

Cooler temperatures = a drop in humidity (amazing for our hair but not so great for our skin) 

During these cooler months, a different approach to your skincare routine is suggested by many dermatologists. The air can become a bit dry, causing a bit of havoc on your skin. Not to mention, we are sitting around the firepits more and starting to turn on our heaters – that’s like doubling the drying action. Now, we’re not telling you to do a whole vanity makeover, but we are encouraging you to add some extra hydrating ingredients to your skincare routine. Here are our top 3 ingredients to add to your routine, especially during these crisp, chilly days ahead of us.

Glycerin

We have done the science for you on adding moisture into your routine; the first step is Glycerin-infused products to aid in rehydrating skin and lock in moisture. Not only does it have the ability to retain moisture, but Glycerin also combats dark spots and erases fine lines and wrinkles. Go the extra step by pairing with an occlusive moisturizing agent to enhance the effect.

Hyaluronic acid

A fall glow that radiates from within needs Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrating ingredient found naturally in your skin which is the reason this product gives a dewy healthy glow. With an emphasis on powerful; this acid is a humectant like Glycerin – a substance that retains moisture – and can hold 1000 times its weight in water. A question that comes to mind is if our body produces this acid, why do we need additional sources of it? The answer is as we age beautifully, the downfall is we decrease the production of it, resulting in our skin losing plumpness, volume, and hydration. Two of our formulations have Hylauronic Acid, Recharge Serum, and Amino+ Peptide Cream. Recharge actually has three molecular weights of Hylauronic Acid to go deep into the skin to provide hydration while diminishing fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, tightening and so much more.

Peptides

We are seeing a trend of hydrating products being huge for the upcoming cooler months. Let’s make room for one of our favorite ingredients, which is the building block of collagen and elastin fibers that are found in our skin – Peptides. Like Hyaluronic Acid, our bodies produce this; however, when added to serums or moisturizers, they work differently and communicate with the skin like a messenger. They send little DMs to hype up the cells to produce more collagen and elastin; reducing wrinkles, easing inflammation, and improving a stronger moisture skin barrier.

That was a ton of information – Using our Rewind Method will spice up your skincare routine this season while providing the hydration your skin needs to maintain a healthy moisture barrier for clear, healthy, glowy skin. I would be happy to help you on your healthy skincare journey! Send me an email at HERE.

Until next week,

Carrie

Easy Fall Fashion Favorites

easy fall fashion favorites

Fall is here and it is time to break out the warm sweaters, jeans, boots, and accessories. I like to pick up a few new pieces each season to incorporate into my Fall wardrobe. I love the ease of Summer dressing but there is just something about the colors and warmth of Fall styling. Here are just a few of my favorites.

easy fall fashion favorites
Prana plaid perfect for Fall

I love dresses and a great dress for Fall is so versatile. This dress from Prana is perfect for the season. I would dress this up with tights and a tall pair of boots or down with flats or a sporty-looking boot. The colors in this piece just say Fall to me and I have been wearing it often.

easy fall fashion favorites
Favorite J. McLaughlin sweater

Basic sweaters are a must but there is nothing basic about these sweaters from J. McLaughlin. I have this sweater in multiple colors and it is such a versatile piece. The gold button detail on the sleeves adds a little extra touch too. I like to add a colorful scarf to make this piece pop or a colorful necklace.

easy fall fashion favorites
A great pair of boots is a must.

A great pair of boots for the season is a must. I love cowboy boots and think they add a unique flair to any outfit. There are so many styles, colors, and designs to choose from. This pair from Roper caught my eye when I was browsing on Zappos. The color is so pretty and the black underneath is actually sparkly and just adds a little something unexpected.

easy fall fashion favorites
A favorite sweater

This poncho-style sweater is going to be on rotation all season long. From Carve Designs, it also comes in other colors which I will be picking up soon. I wore this with jeans, my boots, and bold jewelry for a night out. I could see this being styled in so many ways.

easy fall fashion favorites
Fall monograms

Jewelry is such an easy way to change the look of an outfit. Molly B Originals is one of my favorites for monogrammed and acrylic pieces. This clear acrylic in a modern monogram with a leaf design was a new addition for Fall. I also picked up a Lilly-inspired pumpkin and a holiday piece, it’s never too early to start thinking about the holidays.

I hope you enjoyed a peek at a few of my Fall favorites. Now, go enjoy the cool weather in your favorite snuggly sweater.

Until next week,

Carrie

Shop the looks HERE:

Prana Dress

J. McLaughlin

Roper Boots

Carve Designs

Molly B Originals

 

Longaberger Holiday Shop

longaberger holiday shop

I have been waiting for this all year, the Longaberger Holiday Shop. I love all seasons, but somehow decorating for the holidays just seems different and special. Each room has a different style and theme, and I enjoy creating a magical experience for my family and friends. We host Christmas Eve at our house complete with games, crafts, gifts from Santa, food, and so much fun. I look forward to it all year long!

longaberger holiday shop
Sure to grab attention
longaberger holiday shop
Beautiful hand-woven ornament

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Longaberger has been a part of my holiday traditions for years. I have collected holiday baskets and they stay displayed year-round. The traditions and memories behind these pieces are so special to me. Longaberger is a company rich in American history and tradition. I hope to pass these things down to my family and know that they will bring back happy memories of holidays past.

longaberger holiday shop
A Norman Rockwell Christmas
longaberger christmas shop
Winter fun

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This collection is incredible and the weavers really outdid themselves. Baskets shaped like mittens, who would have thought? I ordered the green set and they are the inspiration for this year’s staircase design. Tree skirt baskets, Norman Rockwell ornaments(is there anything more American than Norman Rockwell), glass pieces, and so much more.

longaberger holiday shop
A new take on a traditional piece
longaberger holiday shop
Trim the tree with a handmade piece

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Longaberger really is a lifestyle that I fully embrace. Family, friends, and home are the most important things to me. I am so excited to add new pieces to my collection and create my Winter Wonderland. I am happy to help you find the perfect Longaberger piece for you or a loved one and add a little Longaberger Lifestyle to your home!

longaberger holiday shop
A unique tree skirt
longaberger holiday shop
Traditional red

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Until next week,

Carrie

Send me an email here: pinespplesandmonograms@gmail.com

Visit the Longaberger boutique here: longaberger.carriekellydesigns.com

It’s Spooky Season, Halloween Decor

 

It’s spooky season, and I love this time of year. Halloween is such a fun time for kids and adults alike. I get together with a group of friends and we participate in a Witches Walk. We are quite the sight all going out in costume. It is so much fun and I am looking forward to it this year. My costume is all ready to go. I enjoy seeing all of the kids running around the neighborhood dressed up and having a great time. The dogs have new Halloween outfits too.

My house is all decorated for Fall and I don’t want to take tablescapes and vignettes apart or down for Halloween. I just add to what is already there. The family room shelves get a little makeover with webbing and spooky decor. The fireplace area a spooky caldron I picked up looks so cool at night. The entryway does as well.

In the dining room, I added a witch boot floral arrangement and skulls to the table. A few little touches turned the space from Fall to Halloween.

My staircase is always a focal point. I have had the light-up black web garland for years and I love the look. A few years ago I added the ghosts that I picked up at the DollarTree, and I think they added the perfect finishing touch to the staircase.

I sprinkled a little more spooky decor throughout the rest of the house and we are ready for Halloween. Enjoy!

 

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