Monday, November 30, 2009

Quote of the Week

I don't believe anything can do as much for a room as a glowing fire in an attractive fireplace. Men and dogs love an open fire - they show good sense. It is the heart of any room and should be kindled on the slightest provocation.







Wednesday, November 25, 2009

From Classic Cottage to Chic Retreat

What an adorable little home this is - I especially love the mixture of bold patterns and colors in almost every space. The entry is amazing - it definitely makes a statement upon entering the home! See how Designer Carleton Varney turned this classic 1929 Wisconsin Lake cottage into a home filled with style and a little bit of sass. Click here to view the entire article.












PHOTO CREDITS: HOUSE BEAUTIFUL
I want to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy spending time with family and friends and make sure to EAT plenty of delicious food and desserts...diets get the day off tomorrow :) And thank you for your continued support of belle maison - I appreciate each and every person who stops by to visit and for all of the sweet and thoughtful comments left throughout each post! See you back here next week :)
XO - Julie

Monday, November 23, 2009

Quote of the Week

"People who live the most fulfilling lives are the ones who are always rejoicing at what they have."

- Richard Carlson













Friday, November 20, 2009

Turn Paper Clutter into Art

Happy Friday! I'm planning on doing some serious cleaning and organizing this weekend around my apartment and home office. Always on the look-out for creative ways to store & display paperwork, photos, etc., I found some great ideas for organizing cards, invitations, reminders, etc., that don't involve a giant cork board or refrigerator! I do love cork boards but they can get messy and cluttered very quickly. These ideas are especially handy for the upcoming Christmas season where you'll have invites, holiday cards, shopping lists, etc., etc., that will need a home (and not on the fridge!). Enjoy and have a lovely weekend :)






PHOTO CREDITS: (1-4) HOUSE TO HOME & LIVING ETC.; (5-6) POTTERYBARN

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Etsy Finds: Handmade Christmas Cards

It's hard to believe Christmas is just right around the corner! This year I'm trying to be proactive and get things done ahead of time...I'm notorious for waiting until the last minute to send out cards and one year I even finished my cards, addressed them and then procrastinated on buying stamps...and the cards never made it out! All that time wasted! Anyway, I love Etsy and found some adorable handmade cards from several different sellers. It seems like almost everyone is offering special holiday deals and discounts, so now is a good time to get on it!


(2) Cards above from Studio Flower Power - each card is made with real pressed flowers!

Holiday Card Set with Mittens via Sloe Gin Fizz

Eco Friendly Holiday Note Cards via Art and Philanthropy



(3) Cards above from Sweet Bella Cards (love these!)

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Window Treatment Ideas: Side Panels

One of the easiest and affordable ways to add interest and warmth to a space is with window treatments. If you've been feeling like your space has been lacking something but can't quite put your finger on it, maybe a couple of drapery panels would do the trick! Personally, my favorite treatment for almost any space are simple side panels hung from a chunky wood or iron rod. The key in selecting a pair of panels is to keep the design simple...clean lines, no heavy fringe or fabric. The idea is to add texture, pattern, color, etc. to your space without completely covering up or taking away the actual view through the window. Just Say No to swags, heavy valances, balloon shades...you get the picture - nothing over the top! Here are some beautiful examples to get you inspired :)