Minted. More than Cards

We are all doing it. 

Scrolling through the printing sites we love, agonizing over each design, hating the sticker shock, but loving the result. Yes, it is Christmas card design time. 

I have used a few different sites over the years (tiny prints, cocodot, pinhole), but this year I went with Minted. Their design options are beautiful and fun, and they had a clean multi photo design that I think will be great for this year. 

Much to my surprise though as I was searching the site, I found that Minted also sells prints. Gorgeous ones that can be printed in many sizes (including large scale). And to top it off, you can have them framed. I obsess over prints and knowing that a site I trust has some options gets me pumped. 

Check out some of these beauties...

Gorgeous, right? And the pricing is not scary, in fact it is great. 

The other bonus on the site is fabric. I wish that I knew how to sew, but luckily I know someone who could make some great pillows or table linens out of some of these lovelies. The selection for options for little people's rooms is adorable too. 

Love a good find on a site I already love. 

xo

Erin 

Just Add Antlers

I am back from the sunshine and gearing up for another frigid week. Being away is so nice, but sometimes coming home can be the best. It reminds you of why you love where you live. Minus the polar vortex, of course. 

Ever since we got home, I have been in full organize/decor mode. Mostly to try and clear all the clutter created by the babes or their stuff that is. But also a little refreshing makes spaces feel newer, even if it is just moving a vase from here to there. One new item that I have added to the abode is this set of elk antlers I scored at a local antique store. 

They were originally slated for above our bed, but they were too tall. So they have found a home above our back door that leads to the mudroom/laundry/garage. I actually think this is a better spot in all. 

These babies are no joke, heavy and super tall. Why this space makes more sense is it brings your eye up more to the vaulted ceiling that only runs along one side of the kitchen/family room. 

I have used antlers before in the faux variety in the dining room. Because we live in the country, a little nature seems very appropriate to incorporate into the decor. 

If you are looking for real antlers such as these, the best resource is your local antique or thrift store. Ask the owner to be on the look out in their shopping and they can find you one if they do not have one already. Ebay and Hunter's Alley also usually have some. 

You can find some great faux options at West Elm. 

These run only $99-$199 and are papier-mache. 

This Etsy store is where the deer head is from in my dining room. 

They have every color combination that you could want and animal. These are plaster, so the quality is better. Also under $100. 

The woman who runs the antique store that I got the antlers from said "you can never go wrong with nature," when I was contemplating the purchase. Which is kind of cheesy, but so true. Look how a little nature has made a big impact in these spaces. 

Such a cool collection of antlers...

Love the mix of something rustic with the modern kitchen finishes... 

Even antlers can be femme...

They are such a great addition to this vignette... 

Happy antler hunting. 

xo

Erin 

Birthday Wish List

Given that my birthday is on Thursday, I thought I would put together what I am currently coveting and hope that people are feeling extra generous this year. This birthday seems caught in the mix of a lot and I am not really that interested in it. Between being pregnant, hanging out with the little man, and preparing for the baby, I just have other things on my mind. I guess that is what happens in older age, birthdays start to lose their luster. That does not mean that a fun gift is not in order. Here is what is on my list. 

1. Hermes is kind of always on the list

2. This print from Etsy is just something I keep coming back to. Great for my gallery wall. 

3. Some new (inexpensive) riding boots for the the Fall 

4. I love these Peter Dunham Fig Leaf pillows from Etsy

5. Don't these Prada loafers look comfy? 

6. Already post about this painting, but I still love it. 

7. I know everyone has pinned/blogged about it, but I think Claire Vivier is so fun. 

Nothing like some retail dreaming to start a Monday. 

xo

Erin 

Sarah + Abraham

I came across the cutest site for kids stuff last week. Am thinking of ordering everything....

Sarah + Abraham has the cutest personalized graphics for kids and adults. And after further review, I found out that Sarah is local and started the business on her own. Love that. There are tons of options for graphics and colors for each item. The plate and bowls are just adorable, how cute is Charlotte? That little book with Emma on the front is a journal, perfect for summer story writing. She has a lot of options for art prints and note cards that you can personalize with how many kids you have and their names. There are also some cute gifts for teachers. 

Glad I found this gem. The place mat and plates are going on order as soon as I can get Tommy to stop throwing food on the floor. Thinking it will happen in the next ten years. 

xo

Erin 

Keeping it in the Family

We have been lucky enough to receive some art from my grandmother who passed and Matt's grandfather who passed. It can be so hard to incorporate these pieces into your more contemporary space. I decided to give the framing a modern upgrade so I could hang them in many different spaces and rearrange easily later. Old frames can be great, but many of the ones I have received were in disrepair and really dated. 

Matt's grandfather liked to paint, so these are actually his works. Which makes them so special. Here is a future cowboy after nap time with this new cowboy. 

I went with a simple white frame since I can see this be part of a gallery wall later. 

The train replaced the Love poster I had and I think it works great with the more modern changing area. 

He is not into trains yet, but if he ever is I like to think that he will pumped to have this in his room. 

My grandmother had these Norman Rockwell prints hanging in her home for as long as I can remember. I love their fresh new look in white frames and matting. 

It worked great in this vignette by the mudroom entrance. 

And the larger one found a home in the dining room, above the buffet. 

I am lucky that I like these. What a nightmare it is when you receive something you just could not find a place for or hate. Reframing can be really pricey, especially for the prints. If you ind a gem of a painting at grandma's or at a flea market, bring it to a framer and just do a simple frame around the edge. The price tag is not that much and will be worth it. Unless of course it has an amazing frame, lucky you. 

xo

Erin 

Happy Weekend

Not that I am wishing for snow, but with so much family coming in town (some of which never get to see it) it would be nice to have a white Christmas. 

And then I am reminded of the brutality that snow can bring in Chicago. 

If you ever worked or work in the city and commute on foot at any time during it, you know how these guys feel. 

Still would love some snow, though. 

I cannot get over how sweet this family portrait is from Rifle Paper Co. I am actually obsessed with their entire shop. 

This kitchen that I spotted on Pinterest is so fab. The island is to die. The modern stark feel crossed with that rug is fantastic. Not  my first choice for lighting, but I like that they chose a traditional chandelier shape. 

Isn't this idea to use photos as gift tags clever? No one ever actually prints out photos anymore. I am stealing and going to try it out. I will post photos of it once I finish wrapping. 

Worship this idea to do a black painted gallery wall with white frames. Such a clean look and makes great contrast. I would do different sized frames and mix in some color with art or photos. 

Happy weekend friends. 

xo

Erin 

Back to December

Two weeks on the beach was bliss. It made coming back to reality today not so fun, but I am really looking forward to the holidays at home. I have started posting some gift guides and have a few more for next week. 

For now, just a few of my favorite pins that I am glad I found while I was away. 

How sweet are the color of these chairs? I have high hopes of making it a flea market soon to hunt down ones just like it and painting them. Convincing Matt to get new kitchen chairs, when the ones we have are perfectly fine is a stretch. So it will need to be a steal. 

I am obsessed with this photograph, but cannot locate the source. Does anyone know? 

Our mantels are very similar to this. I like the idea of hanging the garland high to the ceiling instead of draping it along the top. 

How cute is this little hair bow? And it is actually pretty easy to master. 

I love this idea. A story book of your parent's love story. 

Enjoy your weekend friends. 

xo

Erin 

My Wish List

My wish list for Christmas always has expectations well beyond what will actually be opened come December 25th. But it is fun to put together a list of what you love and it helps you understand what you actually might need. 

Because of the new house, my list includes quite a few decor options that would make me smile. Plus, there are my usual smattering of beauty products I either want to try or need more of, a couple delicate jewelry pieces, clothes that would fill holes in my closet, shoes that replace scuffed ones, electronics that would improve my life, and a couple of far fetched items that I am dreaming of. 

1. Jennifer Zeuner cursive nameplate bracelet (TMV) $125

2. Lait-Creme Concentre 

3. Dash & Albert Steps Runner 2.5 x 8 $208

4. Pashli Tote in Jade by Phillip Lim $895

5. Mary Green sleep mask $26

6. Vintage Pajama Set by J. Crew $85 

7. Yosi Samra two tone flats $66 

8. Gorjana rose gold pendant necklace $70

9. J. Crew cardigan in Byzantine blue $49 

10. Peekaboo console table by Crate & Barrel $399

11. Stella McCartney over sized glasses $225

12. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray  $39

13. MoraccanOil Conditioner $22

14. Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo $48

15. CB2 Vapor Bar Stool 30" - 3 $199

16. Amy Sia print 26 x 38 

17. Faux Deer with Seafoam antlers $110

18. Color block sweater dress by Club Monaco $170 

19. Nike Air Max+ 2012 in Punch $136

20. J. Crew Fair Isle Sweater $148

21. 3 x 5 Thorndike Mills Entry Rug $164

22. Canon EF f/1.8 II Camera Lens 

23. Photo by Jerry Cook 48 x 36

24. Sperry Top-sider for J. Crew boots $138

25. Cartier Love bracelet $5,575

Wishful thinking, right? But that is what wish lists are for. I would be more than lucky to receive any of these gifts. Maybe I gave you an idea or two for yourself? Have a happy weekend, whatever you are wishing for. 

xo

Erin 

Easy Update

Slowly, but surely, I am starting to settle in and even hang some pieces on the walls. There was a big gaping hole over the stove that was screaming for something to fill it. I have never hung anything above a stove and thought it might be a little funny to have framed art hovering over pots and pans sizzling and bubbling on the range. I bought these vintage French serving piece prints at an antique fair a few years ago. They are pages out of an old catalogue and I love them. I had them mounted on charcoal grosgrain and framed in metallic silver. And I think above the stove is the perfect spot...

Given my current indecisiveness, I used 3M hooks so I can easily rearrange. Although, I think these two prints have found their home. 

After some searching on Pinterest , I realized there are a lot of ways to fill that empty space. Similar to what I did, these botanical frames are fantastic. 

This built in nook and faucet is genius. 

Charming dishware can be displayed.

A simple pot rack makes for a pretty space and functionality. 

More contemporary than my kitchen allows, bit this shelf is perfect for prep and tools. 

Sweet Little Store: Leif

I stumbled across the link to Leif when on (surprise, surprise) Pinterest. I saw this geode necklace and was so excited when I saw the very small price tag. It is now on its way to my door and will be perfect to compliment the pastel tops and stripes I plan on sporting this Spring. 

The shop is filled with some fantastic jewelry, like the above, and home goods. From paper to tabletop, there is a great selection for gift giving and fun ways to treat yourself. 

The card is perfect for your Frenchie loving friend and I am obsessed with these neon serving spoons. So much more fun then the traditional silver and perfect for my white serving platters and bowls. I LOVE this sweet pitcher glazed in sky blue. The branch colored pencils are fun for your earthy, crafty friend or new nephew. 

Now that I am not as mobile as I once was, finding these boutique online stores makes shopping fun and easy. And honestly, I can find better, much more unique products. 

What are some of your favorite web finds? 

xo

Erin 

Ode to Chanel

I have been looking for a print for my closet, where I keep my jewelry and perfume. You know that girlie shelf that starts out all organized and fun and after a month of not putting things back in its place it gets a little messy and not so cute? Well, a print couldn't hurt to make it look more polished. 

I am a one scent girl. I do not even wear perfume every day. When I do, I wear Chanel No. 5. It has a classic, powdery scent that I love. It is not for everyone, but I love it. 

This cute print on Etsy could be the perfect print as an ode to my signature scent. Small, unassuming and just girlie enough. 

CathrynsDesigns, the shop this is from, has some other fun illustrations of some of girls' favorite things. Even a pair of black Louboutins. So even if you cannot have the real thing, you could hang it in your closet as inspiration. 

xo

Erin 

Bringing Back the Photo Collage

Remember the good old days when you would take pictures, bring the film or disposable camera in to be processed and pick up the images with so much anticipation you could hardly contain yourself? I miss those days. I miss them more for the the fact that I had honest to goodness pictures around to frame and pin onto a photo collage. 

And though those days are long gone, there are some creative and chic ways to bring back the photo collage, just like the days of dorm room living. 

Check out this amazing piece by photographer, Annie McElwain. 

She simply pulled some of her favorite images and made a collage for her home. I love the scale, the different colors and I am sure she gets so much satisfaction seeing her work in this fun way. 

And though your work may not be professional, you certainly have some fun images to display. Not to mention this helps you decide how to display all the amazing photos you have from that trip to Europe, your three year old growing up or even wedding pictures. 

I found a couple of options to make this work for us that do not have access to a professional photo display designer and printer. Snapfish offers a 20 x 30 that you can make yourself. Choose the pictures you want and the background (skip through the cheesy themed versions) and simply order. 

If you are an Instagram user (If not, and an iPhone user, visit your app store and start playing), this service is perfect. Printstagram will make you a 20 x 40 poster with up to 400 images from your Instagram app. They also have some other fun printing concepts to check out. 

I need to seriously start using my Instagram, because I am obsessed with this homemade art. For sure an upgrade from my beloved college photo collages still hanging out in my basement (priceless). 

xo

Erin 

I heart Made by Girl

Is there anything better or more simple than this print? 

A declaration, a memory, or maybe a state of mind, this would be lovely to look at every day. It is one of Made by Girl's  prints and comes in many other colors. 

Most of what I have been framing lately has been fun prints from Etsy or personal photos I have blown up and stuck in gallery frames from West Elm. 

This one might be my next acquisition. 

Made by Girl has a great blog and other prints and paper wares to dazzle you. 

Most of the prints can be done on a stretched canvas like the love prints above. Another fun option for your walls. 


The Hellos in different languages would be great for an entry. 


And how cute are the cards? Simple, yet the expressions on them are unique and have some whimsy. 


As always, the prices are great. So shop away! 


xo
Erin 

Bringing Home Some Upper East Side

I have been watching more television than I would like to admit. Between being sick and the colder weather, I am well caught up on my DVR and have embarrassingly got pulled into watching some really bad reality TV via VH1. You know who you are Basketball Wives. 

Luckily, there are new episodes of some of my favorite shows waiting in my DVR box each morning. One of which is Gossip Girl. 

I have been a loyal fan from the beginning. And while the story lines are getting a bit redundant and possibly cliche, I love tuning in to see what Blair and Serena will be wearing, what NYC spot they are hitting and how the set will be decorated. 

Truly, between the fashion and the decor, there is always a ton of fun inspiration each week. And let's not forget the life lessons we learn (ie: try not to hook up with your ex right before being proposed to by a prince). 

Take a look at this snippet of set and the beautiful painting. 

Gossip Girl lets us into a fantasy world, which is why we love it. My fantasy is that I own that painting and it sits above my four poster bed in my Manhatten penthouse, where I eat macaroons in bed and online shop all afternoon. 

While we can all dream, a piece of Manhattan's elite is probably not in the cards. What we can do is look to Etsy and see what artists that we can afford might be able to contribute to our own sets at home. 

I found some great paintings...

1. afiori $30

2. EmmaWalshDesign $25

3. AustinMScott $30

4. FreeArtStudio $80

And some beautiful photographs...

1. ParisPhotographer $27

2. GeorgiannaLane $25

3. ElleMoss $40

4. PettyPetalStudio $8

5. MetOperaShop $80 (LOVE)

And you can bet your Blackberry that these price tags are ions lower than anything Lily has on her fab walls. 

Can't wait for next week's episode and some more inspiration (ie: Is Blair having Chuck's baby?!). 

xoxo

Erin 

Weekend Wish: A Piece of Newport

While in Newport last weekend, I came across some beautiful abstract sailing photographs in a local restaurant. Being in a family that loves to sail and trying to keep the kitsch away from anything "themed" in my house, I am always on the look out for art I know my husband will like and I can see on our walls.

The photographer is Onne van der Wal, a dutch photographer who has been sailing and capturing moments on the water for over twenty years. I found his gallery in Newport and had a chance to see some of his work on a large scale and loved it. Vibrant, fun and reminding me of the everything I love about the ocean, I am currently shopping for a piece for our house.

You can order his prints online and the smaller sizes are very reasonable. I really loved the large scale stretched canvas prints, everything can be browsed, bought, framed and sent straight to your door. They have such an impact and seem like an investment I would not mind making.

While this art is not going to blow away the critics, I really love photos that capture something dynamic and resonate a memory. I will always remember my trip to Newport and my stumble across the Dutch sailor who loves to take photos. 

Happy Weekend!
xo
Erin