Helpful Tips

I was flipping through the latest House Beautiful and was pleasantly surprised by the little treat just inside the cover. They call it a "Decorate by Numbers" tip sheet, that can be torn out and used when needed. I am going to list a few of my favorite tips from the experts they interviewed, some I have tweeked a little...

1. How to measure for a chandelier...
This one I knew by heart, but it is an amazing way to help figure the size chandelier you will need for you room. Add the width and the length of you room together, and that will give you a good gauge of the diameter you will need for your chandelier. Brilliant!!

2. How much paint do I need...
Typically a gallon of paint will cover 400 square feet of wall. Remember this is only a guide!!

3. How high off the dining table should your chandelier be...
Typically 36" from the bottom of the chandelier to the table top. Don't freak out if it is a few inches off, this is merely a guide.

4. How do I measure for my drapery rod...
I typically measure from outside moulding to outside moulding on the window, and add 8-10". If you don't have that much space on either side of your window try to have at least 2-3" of rod on either side of the window.

Hope these are as helpful to you as they are to me on a daily basis! Hope you guys are having a great week!! Check out my boss' new website that launched yesterday, www.ashleygilbreath.com. We have been working very hard making sure it is perfect. The portfolio has turned out amazing. There is also a link to our new blog. Become a fan, and receive 10% off your first purchase.

Until next time,
Amanda

Chi Omega Love. Collect V

I was a Chi Omega at The University of Alabama. I have some of the best memories, and made some very dear friends while at Alabama. While looking through a random Facebook feed on my Blackberry, I stumbled across a new super chic and stylish blog. It just so happens to be the brain child of these five gorgeous ladies below, and they are some of the sweetest, most stylish girls I know. Their new blog Collect V, is a collaborative collection of fashion, interiors, and entertaining ideas. Be sure to check out their blog, you will not be disappointed.

Amanda

Random Thoughts

To say work has been stressful, is an understatement. It is really hard to describe the pressure and weight this job makes you feel daily. I realize I am not saving lives, or finding a cure for cancer, but dealing with people's money is stressful! Having said that I do love what I do. I never have the same day twice, and I am surrounded by beautiful things everyday. Sorry for the pity party, but I needed a place to vent, and this blog happened to be my forum. I leave you with a little happy. I love the pink door enveloped by the bright green ivy. It makes me wonder what lies inside. I am thinking a super comfy sofa, a good book, and a big glass of iced tea.

image via imaginedesignblog.com

Amanda

I am kind of obssesed...Tara Shaw Maison

I am so sorry for my absence. Work has been beyond busy, but too much work is better than no work!! I have been a huge fan of Tara Shaw for years. Her antiques are out of this world beautiful, and usually out of this world expensive. Her expertise in Italian, French, and Swedish antiques has led her to create her own more affordable line of reproductions. Tara Shaw Maison has been her baby for the past four years. Her hard work and attention detail shows. The collection is stunning. The wonderful thing about an old piece, or a piece that looks old is that it can mix with a variety of different interior styles. Take a peek at some of my favorite items from the collection.

SHELTER SOFA IN BELGIAN LINEN

ITALIAN MIRRORED SCONCE
SWEDISH ROCOCO COFFEE TABLE

GILDED IRON TABLE WITH STRAIGHT LAGS

SWEDISH THREE DRAWER CHEST

ITALIAN 12 ARM CHANDELIER

IRON VENETIAN CANOPY BED

ITALIAN BUFFET

All of the items can be found on Laylagrace.com, but hopefully soon at Parish in Montgomery!!

Amanda

One of my favorite kitchens...

I know a lot of people blog about this kitchen, but it is so great!! Anne Turner Carroll, an Auburn graduate, is the mastermind behind this renovation. I love the open work shelving, subway tile, antique brass hardware, and amazing pendant lights. It looks like a kitchen I would truly want to cook in!! It is not over the top, or too fussy. It is just right. What do you guys think?

images courtesy of Cottage Living

Amanda

Be Back Shortly...

I am so sorry I have been M.I.A. lately!! Work has been very busy, and I am trying to keep my head above water. We, my boss Ashley and I, are heading to Rosemary Beach for a HUGE new job. Do not be too jealous though, all work no play!! I will be back updating as soon as possible!!

I need a little something...

I have been thinking for awhile that something seemed off balance in my living room and dining room. I love my cream walls and trim, but it is missing something. I would love to put up some lush linen curtains in a rich grey-brown, but my budget will not allow this to happen. Then I had an "a ha" moment while stalking my new favorite site Pinterest. Paint my tall french doors in both rooms a rich and dramatic high-gloss grey-brown. Paint is an inexpensive way to make a big impact. The color I have chosen is Benjamin Moore's Dragon's Breath. It is awesome. If you are having trouble envisioning what on earth I am talking about, check out the images below. Now all I have to do is get the Hubs on board, and get him started!!

BENJAMIN MOORE DRAGON'S BREATH

images via habitually chic and birch and bird

Amanda