{Be Inspired!}: Kitchen Envy

I am among those who consider the kitchen to be the "heart" of the home.  In my case it relates largely to the fact that much of the gathering, sharing, sustenance and memories stem from moments spent in the kitchen.  And then there's that thing that I have for cooking, baking--and eating. :)

All of that can definitely make it exciting (most days, anyway) to create a space that's true to your personal aesthetic and utility purposes.  Whether you're working with a large area, a galley space, or somewhere in between, kitchen's are magic!  From lighting, to fixtures, appliances, furniture, counter tops, flooring, cookware, art and beyond, there's seemingly no limit to what your space can reflect and inspire.

And speaking of inspiration, I'm constantly feeding my kitchen fantasies with loads of it, like the scenes included here.  If you're looking for even more (and who isn't?!), head over to my Homes/Interiors board on Pinterest for more of everything you love to love.

Happy Inspired Living!

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

{Be Inspired!}: Decking the Halls!

Last weekend I finally began adding Christmas touches to my home.  And although I'm not quite as eager as some (I have a cousin, for instance, whose decorations are always on full display by the second week of November!), I must admit that once everything comes together, I'm in love all over again (and secretly wishing for a way to keep the decor this way throughout the year.) 

From adorned table tops, to embellished topiary trees, to candles, wreaths and other accents, the smallest to grandest touches make for my very own special space that creates the perfect backdrop for this most wonderful time of the year. 

Photo Credit: Architectural Digest

And with that in mind, I've rounded up some seasonal decor inspiration to get your juices flowing with these savvy decorating tips from Architectural Digest--as you deck your own halls this holiday season.

Whatever you decide to do (or not), I hope this festive time of the year brings you goodness from near and far.

Happy Decorating!

All Things Thanksgiving: Recipes, Guides, Tips & More!

Today marks the one week countdown to one of, if not the, biggest holidays of the year--Thanksgiving!

With all that has occurred (and continues) to happen in our world, there's never been a better time to pause and give thanks for the gift of life and the many blessings it affords.  And to make sure you're all set, I'm sharing my favorite recipes, tips, inspiration and more for your best one yet. 

Countdown and Six Step Guide to A Stress- Free Thanksgiving

Turkey Love: Prep Tips

All About Pie

Etiquette--(Including How To Eat Turkey, Chicken and Duck)

Tablescape Inspiration

And Much More! 

Happy Eating! 

{Fall on Display}: Tablescapes, Recipes & More!

To say that I was thrilled to return to Atlanta Plugged In on last week would be an understatement of grand proportions!  A morning of fun, topped off by sharing inspiration from my favorite season--Fall, couldn't have been any sweeter.

WATCH HERE NOW 

 

Bringing the look and feel of the season to the dining table via a Fall-themed tablescape was a highlight of my segment.  Inspired by select pieces from Pottery Barn, the table was styled in copper statement pieces, accented by lush, but rustic, linens, dinnerware, pumpkin touches and more.

And then there was the food.  Because once the table is set, all that remains is to...eat!  So in keeping with our Fall focus, I shared two of my favorite seasonal dishes that bring the tastes of the season alive.  Baked Apple Tarts and luscious, warm and cozy Butternut Squash Soup offer sweet and savory satisfaction that can be enjoyed all season long.

As the season continues to unfold, bring these tips and dishes to life in your home and kitchen and enjoy a personal taste of Fall--on display!

Happy Eating! 

All the Holiday Feels!

Welcoming the holiday season can be a bit daunting for some.  With all the hustle and bustle that surrounds this time of the year, the temptation to succumb to angst over everything from seasonal food, to decor, to entertaining, and more, can come rushing in.  And that's where heavy doses of fresh inspiration come to the rescue.

I keep the holiday feels and inspiration at an all time high with my 'The Holidays'  board on Pinterest and invite you to take it in as you plan and prepare to enjoy this season and all the holidays we enjoy throughout the year.

Happy Holidays!

Image Sources: 1, 2

{Atlanta's Westside Market}: Dive into Fall Design

Some of the many Fall inspired wares

The Fall season has finally graced us with its arrival again, bringing along its own special inspiration for design and decor to enliven and infuse living spaces.  Tuesday night I was invited to attend a gathering at the Westside Market, one of the Southeast's premier design and furniture merchants, highlighting their many offerings and abundant inspiration around Fall design.  

From embellished table scapes, to art, to collectibles, to furniture pieces and beyond, the Westside Market proved to offer something for every taste and budget across the design spectrum.  Also serving as a consignment boutique, there are clothing selections sprinkled throughout the expansive venue, as well as the option to consign your valuables.  

I couldn't resist grabbing a few items for my own takeaway and already have plans for return visits in the days ahead.  If you're familiar with the Market, you'll want to drop in to see what's new from last night's seasonal reveal.  And if you're not familiar, then you'll definitely want to get acquainted with all it has to offer.  

So here's to welcoming Fall flair, design, inspiration and... Happy Living!

Westside Market

1530 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd.

Atlanta, GA 30318

(404) 941-3466

Link Love: Fall Comfort {Recipes, Getaways, Decor + More}

Photo Credit: Gourmet.com

I happen to love the time of year that is Fall.  With the crisp, cooler temperatures, beautiful foliage, heartier cuisine, high-intensity sports action (aka football), and more, what's not to love?!  And with all the reflections of the Fall season in the air--and on the web--currently, I want to share a few of my favorite Fall comforts.

From scrumptious recipes, to travel getaways, to seasonal decor, and delicious reads, Fall is to be celebrated and relished! 

So here's to the season...and to Happy Eating!

Warm and cozy has never tasted better than Short Ribs Braised in Red Wine (Epicurious.com)

Want a great weekend (or longer) getaway that will surround you with the beauty of Fall, opulence and more?  Then consider a trip to America's largest home, the Biltmore Estate. (Biltmore.com)

Bring elements of Fall into your living space with beautiful centerpieces and entertaining essentials (potterybarn.com)

Curl up with a good (cook)book or two and turn up the heat in your kitchen! (foodrepublic.com)

{Be Inspired}: Dreamy Tablescapes

I love being inspired and typically my inspiration comes in many shapes and forms.  But the one thing that remains constant is that wherever and however I find it, it always moves, awakens--and, yes--inspires me.  

With that being said, I'm excited to introduce my BeInspired! Series here on DMRFF!  Beyond my regular doses of food, travel, entertaining, and other yummy tidbits, occasionally I'll share the things, people, places and experiences that inspire me most in my day-to-day living, dreaming and being.  

And it doesn't stop there, because I look forward to you joining the BeInspired! conversation and sharing your inspirations with me!  To begin, keep reading and let's get started with my first installment.

*****

As a girl who loves a gorgeous tablescape, I was immensely inspired by these beautiful works of table art!  If you're into dreamy and over-the-top fabulous decor, then you'll probably love this healthy dose of inspiration as much as I do.  

P.S....I can see some serious entertaining and dinner parties taking place around these tables!

Here's to Happy Eating...and Inspired Living!

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4