out of the ordinary

Looking for affordable centerpiece containers and colorful votives? I find it's cheaper to buy than rent from your florist
and then you have them to give away or keep.
Try JamaliGardendotcom for all types and styles.

here are a few I found in a warm, earthy brown and copper color, but all colors are available:

...and

how about using these pretty little gems and attaching your place cards to them. Hang them for your guests to find.

So unique and beautiful when the light catches them!

Tropical inspiration

It's sure hot here in Hotlanta, but I'd rather be here...

where the ocean breezes are blowing gently, and you don't really feel the heat.

I need a vacation!

stylish decorating for less

If you read my other blog, Tales of a Golf Gal, you know I've written lately about "stuff". Well, it turns out I'm not the only one with too much stuff. People move and find they can't or don't want to use something again, or just want a change. "Downsizers" need to get rid of stuff, and generally have some pretty nice things to get rid of. An opportunity for all you newlyweds!
Yesterday I stopped at the "Queen of Hearts" Antiques and Interiors here in Atlanta. It's what I call a "junk" store where vendors have a booth and sell their wares. Some of it's antiques and some of it's just knick-knaks or old furniture they don't want anymore. You have to weed by a lot of junk, but there are always great finds and interesting pieces too. It's a great way to get ideas and find some character pieces to decorate with and cheaper than buying new.

I love this idea:

it's a bread tray, but great as a centerpiece for your table or on your mantle

shabby chic dining table and 6 chairs for $450, wow
so easy to redo the chair cushions!

a good looking bisquit jar by Raymond Waites for $24

my fave find... I'd love this chest for my own bedroom

repainted & reupholstered useful side chair to fill an empty space find an old chair and DIY

cute mirror and pictures for the nursery

I'd paint the picture frames pink too for a little girls room

and... what Flintstones lover's kitchen should be without this cookie jar!

you'll find a lot of fun and quirky stuff like that

posted at

happy hunting & decorating!

a passion for purple

My favorite garden flowers... Hydrangeas!

Colors changing from blue to purple...

...the inspiration for this cake and color palette.

happy summer!

Inspiration: watermelon

For the 4th we snacked on watermelon and I couldn't help but notice the beautiful pinky-red and greens that nature had put together. What a fabulous combination for your wedding palette!

You can even have someone sculpt a watermelon instead of an ice sculpture!

What a refreshing and crisp combination of colors!

pink at night...

Sailors delight!
I love watching the fireworks by boat... you feel like they're exploding right over your head.
Happy 4th and God bless America!

Etsy Artist of the week

How very special to commemorate your wedding day...

a hand made bowl with your names and wedding date!

I especially love this one for my beachy-bride Ashley...

a bit about the artist:
Elm Studios was founded by Erin Lynne Meissner. She graduated from Alfred University with a bachelor degree in fine arts.

"When I was a little girl, I would always dream of a shop that I would own someday. I wasn't sure if it was going to be a floral shop, an art studio, or a cafe, but I knew I was going to have a business named after my initials. Now, when I look back I'm thankful that I was able to make my dream a reality. I just love to create and be creative. I'm a single mom who stays at home with my two little girls. I'm greatful that Etsy allows me to able to let go of everything and just create! It's a great outlet."

She does cute designs for baby gifts too...

All very affordable at ~$20... I can't think of anyone who wouldn't love a personalized gift like this.
Be sure to visit Erin's shop and support working at home moms!