diy

DIY: seascape framed prints

So I just made these 2 prints over the weekend and could not be more pleased with how they turned out.  For less than 30 minutes and under $40 for 2, I’m leaping for joy. photos on wall IMG_2293 edited But let’s back up the train a little.  A while back, I was looking through Williams-Sonoma Home and came across these lovely seascape prints. Williams Sonoma Prints As I’m finally making our bedroom makeover a reality, they would be PERFECT.  But for $895 for 2…. let’s be real here.  That’s more than just slightly over the budget for something with a simple concept.  Coastal shot + white frame = it’s not rocket science.  And that’s when I had my ah-ha moment of “I’m totally making that myself”. Even though I consider myself much a creative being, I don’t set aside the time to craft or do DIY projects.  I have tons of ideas (and the Pinterest boards to prove it) but ambition.. ehhhh, not so much. But these little pretties are sooooo doable. First of all, you will need to grip up some simple inexpensive white frames.  I like these frames from Michael’s. Michaels 12x12 frames I got the 12×12 size with the 8×8 opening.  I bought them in the store. They cost about $30 each, but with that weekly 40% off coupon you can score one for around $18. Next is the print.  In my last life when I worked at Pizitz in Seaside, we carried this amazing book called Still: Oceanscapes. Still Oceanscapes book You can judge a book by its cover because it is exactly what you think – a bunch of wonderful ocean pictures.  And yes, you guessed it: totally framed print-worthy.  I can’t imagine just cutting up a beautiful hardbound book like this…. unless, well, it is used or damaged.  My next amazing idea.  Jump on Amazon and search for it used and you’ll come up with a whole list. Screen Shot 2015-02-10 at 7.20.28 AM I paid $3.99 for my book, but it was awhile ago. There are some as low as $1.72 + shipping!  So for about $5 you’ll have a plethora of prints to choose from. For supplies you’ll just need a cutting mat, ruler, and Exacto knife. IMG_2257 Next, I just picked out the ones I wanted to use and cut them out.   Pop them in and you’re ready to rock and roll. IMG_2270 IMG_2278 photos on wall

And there you have it.  Awesome prints without the crazy price tag. Yes, I’m aware the Williams – Sonoma prints are much larger, and actual legit professional prints, but still that is WAYY too much to spend for me.  You’re welcome.

bee-utiful fall baby shower

Last week, I was doing my daily Facebook scan for critical news (you know the drill) when I saw these amazing baby shower photos posted by 2 of my college friends, Kendra Steinhaus & Kerra Heffron. (Who, by the way, are THE most adorable/hilarious/talented twins you will meet!)

The picture-perfect location for a fall shower:  nestled between two orchards, at the top of the tiny hill.

This bee-themed event was inspired by this special location.  “The setting and the atmosphere are the driving factors in deciding our event theme and location, so our guests feel like they are part of the unique and personalized experience”, says Kendra.

Embracing nature and the art of DIY, the shower decor was the perfect combination of old and new.   “We like to take unique and common things and re-purpose them,” Kerra explains.  “Some examples are burned-out light bulbs covered in glitter, books covered with paper, and straw bales as chairs from our farm. The yellow wild dill just fell into our laps as we were driving down our old country roads.”

Noteworthy DIY crafts and re-purposed items: tissue flowers, painted bottles, and glitter covered used light bulbs (and yes those are bales of hay for guests to sit on! )

Complete with a fleece blanket for each attendee for this crisp fall Michigan day.

Let’s talk about this food for a minute.  This is making my mouth water as we speak.  And the cute honeycomb-shaped labels give Martha a run for her money.

Growing up on a farm, the twins had access to many unique and rustic accents, including a restored 1937 truck bed which they transformed into the party’s serving station.

All of the charming details that went into making this day extra special!

“The shower was for one of our best, near and dear friends who also appreciates tasteful design, vintage goods, and being crafty”, says Kendra.  “It makes event planning just that much more fun!..We just love her!”

This was my favorite part:  the twinners actually made this chevron baby blanket for their friend & mom-to-be.  The blanket holds significant meaning, since it is crafted from the shower recipient’s mom’s clothes, who has passed away.

All I could think when I first saw this was “Ummm are you kidding me?? This is freaking amazing!”  But knowing these girls, it’s really no surprise – they have always accomplished big things.   Their latest is the launch of their new event planning and design business: Kerra & Kendra Design.

The talented sister design duo (thats Kerra on the left, Kendra on the right, and the lucky mom to be in the middle!).

K & K are not only identical twins, but also went to the same university (MSU – there is no other school 🙂 )  and majored in the same field (interior design).  They are also best friends, and amazing people who I’m blessed to know.  Their great style, attention to detail, creative backbone, and phenomenal work ethic make them the perfect designers & event planners.  Congrats you two!

(All photos are used with permission by Kerra and Kendra.  Please visit their website for even more great photos & info!)