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Hey, there happy weekend!!  We have literally been outside all day today as it was a perfect Saturday!!  My favorite way to spend the weekend is out in our backyard as a family hanging out.  We did some yard work followed by sprucing up our patio and ending with a delicious meal outside. While being outside today I have discovered a few good tricks to really bring out the best in your outdoor oasis.

This is such a good idea and fun way to style a bench.  Using a blanket or even an old rug, as my favorite stylist Emily Henderson, has done in the picture above.  It adds such warmth and texture to any space.  This will also be so much more comfortable to sit on for time spent eating and sharing.

A fun and unique way to liven up your outdoor space is to add a festive umbrella.  I love the first picture up top with the fringed umbrella from Anthropologie.  If spending $$ on an umbrella isn’t an option, try buying an umbrella second hand from Craigslist or your local thrift shop.  Purchase some fringe at your local fabric or craft store and sew on your fringe.  If sewing isn’t your jam you could try using fabric glue.  The second picture gives you an idea of how amazing it can look to add some light at twilight under your umbrella.  Gives so much warmth and would be fabulous for a romantic dinner.

I found this idea from yet again Emily Henderson.  I seriously have such a style crush on her.  In the picture above she hangs a pendant from a tree.  If you have all your ducks in a row and can hang a pendant from a tree and have wiring capabilities then this idea is PERFECT for you.  If you don’t have any electricity nearby then try using a pendant with burning candles to give you your evening glow.

DIY an outdoor fireplace for those chilly nights.  The possibilities are endless, anything that is safe to withstand heat a.k.a. fire is a potential candidate.  Maybe an old iron cauldron like the second picture above.  Have you recently cut down a tree?  Hollow it out and line with metal for your next firepit.  Having a unique centerpiece such as a DIY fireplace really sets you apart from the rest.  A definite conversation starter.

Do you have any fun, unique ideas that bring out the best in your outdoor space?  If so please share!  Happy outdoor living!!

Best,

Jen

Hey everyone Happy Earth Day!!  In honor of mother nature, I am writing about sustainable furniture today.  It is crucial that we all start taking better care of our home; Earth, as she has taken such good care of us.  If we continue to want to see her beauty and all she has to offer we need to be more mindful.  Mindful in just about everything we do every day all day.  Things like can you ride your bike instead of drive the car to work today? Or can you use and consume less?  The options are endless.

So today I want to choose the subject of sustainable furniture.  Choosing eco-friendly furniture is just one of many ways you can show love for Mother Earth.  I am sharing a list of companies with not only eco-friendly furniture, some of them finding ways to give back.

First I think I have to mention that re-using or recycling a piece of furniture is always a good way to go green.  By not wasting the furniture and then consuming more you are giving it and mother nature a second chance.  Another way to recycle or upcycle a piece of furniture is from your local thrift shop or flea market.  There are usually amazing deals to be found, and sometimes with a little DIY and creativity, they are better than before.  Great and easy suggestions for simply living eco-friendly

Now on to the sustainable brands:

• Joybird: Eco-friendly, made-to-order, fair wages and health benefits for craftspeople, no harsh chemicals or flame retardants is what’s behind this brand. Plus, for each item sold, Joybird plants more trees than were used in the manufacturing of that item in an effort to help preserve the rainforests. Online store only.
• VivaTerre: upholds sustainability and integrity throughout the design and manufacturing process of their truly globally-inspired, modern furniture. Online store only.
• Stem: Eco-friendly, made in the USA, upcycled and organic materials, customizable. Their responsible manufacturing process takes place in the USA, cutting down on carbon emissions. Online store only.
• ABC Home: Eco-friendly, ethically and sustainably sourced, fair-trade.  Online store only. 
• West Elm: FSC-certified, made in the USA, Fair-Trade, eco-friendly. Online and instore. 
• Crate and Barrel: Dining & home office collections featuring eco-friendly, FSC-certified, reclaimed wood, and sustainable bamboo. Online and instore. 

Inmod: Bedroom, lighting, storage, and children’s featuring eco-friendly, made in the USA. Online store.

My goal is to strive to do a few green things every day.  Little steps to make a big difference.  Happy Monday and Happy Earth Day!!

Best,

Jen