Cheap and Easy Decor – Splurge vs. Save

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Cheap and Easy Decor – Splurge vs. Save

In today’s world of HGTV and over-zealous home design apps, it too often seems that decorating your own abode up to the standards held for your imaginary dream home to be impossible.  Ever since I was a little girl, my mother taught me the value of quality (as noted in this post, relating to our love of designer handbags).  Combined with her exquisite eye for interior design and innate deal-finding abilities, she has taught me several design tricks to make your home feel much more lavish and ornate then the amount of money you put in may portray. Continue reading “Cheap and Easy Decor – Splurge vs. Save” →

Saddle Stool Makeover – Seating in the Kitchen

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Saddle Stool Makeover – Seating in the Kitchen

When we purchased our home, I absolutely adored becoming acquainted with the vintage, yet updated, nooks and crannies of our beloved 1930’s bungalow.  Instantly, one of my favorite rooms was the kitchen.  Heart of the home…access to outdoors for grilling…vastly spacious for the age of the house…what was not to like?

After a few weeks living in our new space, I began to realize something was missing in the kitchen…seating.  We have a formal dining room and tend to eat on the couch while watching TV, but with the kitchen being the heart of the home, it ended up becoming the main room of congregation.  As avid hosts, accompanied with Brandon’s love for cooking, I slowly realized the need for a place to sit your bum, prop up your feet, and take the responsibility of sue chef while having a glass of wine or chatting with visitors. Continue reading “Saddle Stool Makeover – Seating in the Kitchen” →

Sparkling Peach Birthday Sangria

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Sparkling Peach Birthday Sangria

This past Thursday was my 27th birthday…it’s hard to believe how quickly time flies.  After last year’s elaborate Palm Beach mommy/daughter birthday vacation mixed with an extremely busy year thus far, I wanted 27 to be much more low key.  It turned out exactly how I envisioned.  B and I hit up one of my favorite local Mexican restaurants (No Mas! Cantina) on my actual birthday and rounded off the weekend with an intimate Saturday afternoon grill-out complete with my closest family and friends (and of course, everyone’s fur-babies).

This summer-esque sparkling peach sangria added the perfect pop of “celebration” to an otherwise very chill and relaxed evening.   Continue reading “Sparkling Peach Birthday Sangria” →

DIY – Hospital Care Package

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DIY – Hospital Care Package

Just under three years ago, our friend Zachary was diagnosed with Advanced Congestive Heart Failure, Cardiomyopathy, and Severe Atrial Fibrillation.  Last month, at only 27 years old, the doctors informed him that he would not be returning home until he received a heart transplant.  Amazingly, God provided a heart donor in just over 30 days, with an average wait time upwards of four months.  His road to recovery will not be easy, but if anyone can do it, I know he can.

Zachary is one of the most genuine, loving, and caring people I have ever met.  I am truly honored to call him one of my dearest friends from college.  We met move-in day freshman year, with him pledging B’s fraternity shortly after.  From all of the DeltaSig and ADPi events, to 420 yardies and all night study parties in the library, he could not have brought more joy to our years together at GCSU.   If you would like to donate or learn more, please click here.

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Bacon-Covered Crock-Pot Mac & Cheese

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Bacon-Covered Crock-Pot Mac & Cheese

Hello, lovelies!  It has been quite the busy time in the Chaney hizzy…from in-laws and out-of-town friends visiting, to a sick kitty, then a weekend of Independence Day ‘Merica celebrations.  We will be heading out of town Thursday for one of my best friends’ weddings in the oh-so beautiful Savannah, followed by a mini vacation on Tybee Island.  I’ll be taking the time to recoup and write, but will be back in full force later next week.  Just wanted to give an update to let you know I’m not fizzling out on ya.  😉

I hope everyone had a safe and sparkling 4th filled with lots of sunshine, family, & good ole American cooking.  Here is my new favorite Crock-Pot Mac & Cheese recipe to hold you over… Continue reading “Bacon-Covered Crock-Pot Mac & Cheese” →

The Little Things

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The Little Things - Post 4 - Sean's Harvest Market
{Sean’s Harvest Market}

This past week, B’s parents were visiting from Washington.  We packed as many family events into their trip as possible, meeting at Sean’s Harvest Market for dinner and drinks the evening they flew in.  B’s sister and her husband, Sean, opened the local market back in 2012, which is conveniently located on the BeltLine near Piedmont Park.  The food is inspired by their love for the small, impassioned food shops in Europe and New York and could not be more delicious, fresh, or unique.  Stop by to enjoy a bite and the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and support this trendy local business.  I promise you will not be disappointed!

// see more on Sean’s Harvest Market via Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter //

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DIY – Wedding Emergency Kit

Published on by deidra5 Comments
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DIY – Wedding Emergency Kit

If there is one thing I remember from our wedding day, it was the sheer fact that after a year and a half of planning, I did not want to worry about ANYTHING the day of.  In order to do such, my number one suggestion is to hire a day-of coordinator.  My mother and I wanted to do all of the design and planing ourselves, but wanted someone else to “play us” that day.  It was the absolute best decision we made, as we were able to soak in all of the detail and truly enjoy the day rather than worrying about vendor coordination, rounding up the wedding party, etc.

My second suggestion is to create an Emergency Wedding Kit, containing anything and everything you could possibly need on the big day.  My bridesmaids created one for our wedding, and I recently created a DIY version for a wedding I am a bridesmaid for in a few weeks.  This post will show you how to create your own DIY – Emergency Wedding Kit, along with a free printable item checklist. Continue reading “DIY – Wedding Emergency Kit” →

DIY – Large Framed Chalkboard

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DIY – Large Framed Chalkboard

Over the past 10ish years, chalkboards have become immensely popular.  It seems they morphed from existing only in classrooms to being beautifully framed as art or even painted on walls in homes and restaurants.  My fascination with them began when B and I purchased our home, as a large chalkboard was painted on a wall in our kitchen.  After B proposed, my interest persisted to flourish with the chalkboard possibilities embedded in wedding planning.

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DIY – Bottle Tiki Torches

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DIY – Bottle Tiki Torches

Welcome to that time of year again when the temperature heats up and the bugs come out to play.  For as long as I can remember, mosquitoes have flocked my way, leaving no outdoor summer activity (especially in the evenings) bug bite free.  Being a picker by nature, I’m often unable to leave those itchy little bumps alone.  I like to partake in any measure to prevent those pesky little buggers ::insert English accent:: from nipping me in the first place.  Along with bug spray (I prefer the light feel of OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent I (Smooth & Dry)) and decorative, nicely scented citronella candles (such as this urban, yet cute TIKI brand bucket candle or this tasteful OFF! bucket candle), I have always loved the ambiance of a calming flame.  These visually appealing mosquito repellents supplement as both a light feature and a bug preventative (when paired with this citronella oil).  The glow of a fire adds the feel of soothing relaxation to both side and coffee tables in seating areas and around your property. Continue reading “DIY – Bottle Tiki Torches” →

The Most Beautiful Kitchen Faucet

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The Most Beautiful Kitchen Faucet

At the time B and I purchased our home back in December of 2013, I didn’t realized how much excitement could be derived from items such as home appliances, clean tile grout, and new linens.  In our previous rental house, we made our first large appliance purchase together (front loading LG washer and dryer…which I love!).  Even as renters, we did get relatively excited about furniture and other aspects of home decor, but it unquestionably takes a different turn when you own the home you are living in.   Continue reading “The Most Beautiful Kitchen Faucet” →