Before & After: Family Room Side Table

Where to start after so much time away from blogging? How about with a simple before and after picture of our new side table from August. The before picture shows a black three tier glass side table that I bought from Crate & Barrel shortly after graduating college. It has a matching coffee table--- and it was love at first sight. The pair worked great in my post-college apartments and college-- but the straight lines and black color just really don't fit with my post-marriage decorating style. I needed a warmer look for my family room --- something that would contribute to the comfortable, classic "English Library" look I am going for in the family room. What did I find?

I found a great deal at the Pottery Barn outlet on the Map side table (and matching coffee table). I love the warm brown finish. The shelf still allow the hubby to have his unsightly surround sound receiver/speakers, while the drawers provide great storage for books, magazines, and my favorite...remotes!

Thoughts?

Bookshelf Painting Project: Before & After

It was a busy weekend at the Edmonds' household (or should I say the Edmonds Inn?):

Our friend Leigh stayed with us for a weekend visit and wedding dress fitting. Ryan's brother Chad and his girlfriend Carly came in town to help us with some projects around the house (bookshelf painting, electric dog fence installation, pressure washing, stripping the deck, etc...whew!) Chad's friend and his girlfriend from Knoxville crashed at our house for the night after the Braves game on Friday

I got up early Saturday morning to be sure that I had time to complete my bookshelf transformation, as promised. I am so pleased with the results. Check out the project in pictures below:

Before:

I started by clearing off all of the accessories and then removing the shelves themselves.

I then sanded the wall, dusted, and taped off the edges.

Ta da! I applied two coats of a soft green paint.

After:
(It's hard to see the green in this picture. I think I used the flash. I will try to snap a few more. It's a subtle change-- but you can tell in person. It looks great!)

What do you think?

Ashley

Urban Outfitters Furniture?

I discovered Urban Outfitters' furniture collection today. Am I the only one who didn't know this existed? Not only are their pieces beautiful and current, but they are easy on the wallet too. Check out some of the items I have been perusing...

Edie Velvet Couch. $558.

Modern Velvet Headboard. $328.

Two Tiery Table. $98.
Jet Set Storage Bench. $248.


Slope Chair. $348.

Slipper Chair. $328.
Rolling Side Table. $158.

Antoinette Fainting Sofa. $578.


Gigi Nightstand. $148.
Metal Accordion Coffee Table. $128.

What's your favorite piece? Happy Shopping!

All my best,
Ashley

Weekend Project: Painting the Bookshelves

The paint is purchased. There is no turning back now! Over a year ago, my mom suggested painting the back of our living room bookshelves to add a bit of color to the room. Doing so would also highlight the books, knickknacks, and the like on display in this focal point of our home.

I have gone back and forth-- and back and forth-- over whether we should do it. What if I hate it? What if the color is off? I have finally realized that if I hate it I am only out the $13.09 that I spent on paint last night at Lowe's. I can paint it back. No. Big. Deal.

So...wish me luck! I will post before and after pictures once it's complete!

Here's a peek at some of my inspiration pictures:

Not the right palette for our house-- but I love the look.

Martha Stewart

This is the same concept-- but for the kitchen. Can you imagine how boring that would be if it was all white?

Martha Stewart

Maybe a little bright...but doesn't it draw in your attention?

House & Home

I am hoping that my results look a little more like this example. I am using a similar shade of green as a back drop...

Martha Stewart

Thoughts? Advice?


All my best,

Ashley

Another's Abode: Closet Organization

My most popular, talked about post to date was about my pantry organization project. Apparently, my readers are either a) super organized or b) wish they were. In honor of your desire for more clean content, I offer you images of a recent closet organization mission taken on by my cousin in Washington DC. Lauren has a beautiful two bedroom condo in Arlington, Virginia. Like me, Lauren embraces organization and gets excited by things like drawer organizers, wicker baskets (the perfect wedding gift--thanks, Lauren!), and plastic tote containers. Her high? The Container Store. Unlike me, Lauren actually acts on her love of organization.

Check out the new Elfa system she purchased from The Container Store below. Sigh....

Okay, who is jealous? Who is going to clean their closet this weekend? I know I am.

Have a great Friday!

Ashley

Audrey & Hugh's Couples Shower

We threw a fun couples shower, along with several other couples, for our dear friends Audrey and Hugh in late June. Remember the chic invitation designed by Emily McCarthy of Emma J Design?

As usual, I was running around like crazy until the last minute, so I did not get pictures of the complete set-up. Here is a quick glance at the event:

The sweet couple.

Family.

Drinks. (Wish I would have gotten a better shot.)

Appetizers on the deck.

The spread.

The scene.

Happy Tuesday!

All my best,
Ashley