Artistry Feature - Repurposed and Handcrafted Wood

(via - HalfPintSalvage)

(via - Uncommon)

(via - MemoryBeanDesigns)

I have a big appreciation for hand crafted and re-purposed wood. It is something I wish I had more time to do! Here are a few flawless and fabulous examples I found through etsy!

Also, thank you to the lovely Beth of Hello Splendor for including me in the The Splendid List: 4th of July! Head on over and check out the other fabulous ladies in this post!

Giveaway: SUMMER SURVIVAL KIT!

Summer wouldn't be summer without fun invlolved...so I am excited to offer this giveway to pamper one of you with! Especialy for someone low-maintenance like me, this kit is all I would need to freshen, lift, and luminate. You can win this MD Perricone  Summer Survival Kit, which includes three steps at $125 value! Citrus Facial Wash, Amine Complex Face Lift, and the famous No Foundation Foundation. 

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

WHAT: MD Perricone Summer Survival Kit

WHO CAN WIN: Subscribers and Followers of IHOD 

(this time its only U.S. and Canada only)

WHEN: June 29th- July 5th

TO ENTER: Simply leave a comment why you need this summer survival kit!
EXTRA ENTRIES(separate comment): 
-Tweet, blog, or facebook about this giveaway.
-Become a fan of IHOD on facebook.

Best of luck! Thanks for entering! Can't wait to see who wins!

Meet the Blogger: Jennifer of I Art U

Q: 5 words that describe Jennifer:

A: curious. imaginative! reflective. harmonious. and adaptable :)

Q: What got you to start blogging?

A: I was in major need of a creative outlet! Blogging is the perfect outlet. It helps me organize thoughts and ideas as well as share my passions and inspirations with others!

Q: When people ask you what you do for a living, how do you describe it?

A: I like to say that I practice the art of creatively living and loving well :) 

Q: When you are in need of some inspiration, where do you look?

A: I'm inspired by the juxtaposition between the city and the earth! Those two things are inspirations within themselves--and I seek their wisdom! Blogs are also essential to my daily living--there are many that I look to for creative awakenings!

Q: You have incredible design taste. What are the elements that catch your eye when it comes to design?

A: Wow, thank you! I am flattered! Let's see...in short, I am consistently drawn to clean and simple design! I'm also drawn to a lot of texture, colors, and symmetry (YUM)! I drool over mid century modern and sustainable and urban design! Those are just off the top of my head!

(all image resorces found via i art u)

Find Jennifer Here:

blog | twitter | facebook | flickr

*Thank you Jennifer for being a part of the series and sharing your inspiration with us! Look forward to more!

If I could I would....dress my little man in Crewcuts.

When my little G wears a suit or polo or something that makes him look like a little man, I just can't get enough. That is why, if I could, I would have him in all things Crewcuts:) Of course, my favorite thing to put him in is still onesie pajamas. Nothing sweeter than the baby in pj's. :)

Happy Weekend!

DIY: Paper Pleated Flowers + Party Round Up

Here is the re-cap from the "Headbands and Happy Hour" event my sister hosted for IHOD:) It was so fun for me to create the decor, accessories, and drinks. I wanted to share with you this fun DIY I did that can be adapted for any occasion! ....

I combined two DIY's. I created the pleated flowers via Shop Ruche's directions. (Give or take. Made a few minor changes) I then attached them to hemp string for a garland effect. This was inspired by Fee-Amore's Post.

For drinks we served a few of Imagine's lovely Weekend Warm-Ups including Pomegranate Margaritas and Strawberry Champagne. Divine. Thanks Jamie!

It is taking me forever to squeeze in time to post all the new items in my shop. One by one!

BY THE WAY- The Michael Buble concert was unlike any concert I have ever been to. Phenomenal. HIGHLY recommend seeing him live someday. He has a God given talent that is undeniable. I am so thankful to my hubby for such a sweet birthday/anniversary gift:)

Design Feature: Three Potato Four

I have been meaning to post and share with you about Three Potato Four for a while now. It was an instant favorite when I first cam across their site. Check out their unique shop and meet the family behind it! I was particularly attracted to the items with numbers. Maybe that's my love for typography:D

Find Three Potato Four Elsewhere:

Blog | Twitter | Facebook

Happy Birthday to my Bestest Friend.

(Cassia via Simply Hue creative group)

My best friend and sister and I have birthdays a day a part. She is almost exactly two years older:) Mine is today and hers is tomorrow. We always talked about growing up and living next to eachother with our kids. We are living that dream this year. She lives less than a mile down the road....

"An older sister is a friend and defender - a listener, conspirator, a counsellor and a sharer of delights and sorrows too." -P.B.

So, Happy Birthday to my best friend and sister. I am blessed to have you in my life! I thank God for you and the example you have always been for me.

Our husbands surprised us with Michael Buble tickets for our birthdays!! Excited would be an understatement....

Meet the Blogger: Chris of Postcards & Pretties

Tell us the story behind the name Postcards and Pretties:

There is no real story behind the name. Since postcards are mainly used to send short messages to people, I saw my blog as a virtual postcard where I would be able to share my ideas and inspirations with my readers in different parts of the world… and not to mention I liked how two words sounded together.  J

What has been the best aspect of blogging for you?

It’s a tie…the best things for me about blogging is getting all the ideas I dream about out and being able to share them with my readers. I also love the blogging community - I would have never thought that I would meet such incredibly talented people {fellow bloggers, photographers, vendors, etc.} from all over the world with a common goal to inspire, create and support. I love that!

Your inspiration boards are incredible! What are your resources for inspiration?

Wow! Thank you! Let’s see…Antique shops, flea markets, magazines {online or print} and wedding and design blogs are mostly my main resources. I find inspiration in pretty much everything and anything.  I’ve noticed since I began blogging I tend to be more observant and keep notes of random things that could possibly transform into next weeks inspiration board. I’ve even began to carry a small journal in my bag for whenever I get inspired.

Do you have a current favorite color scheme or wedding trend?

It varies…but I would have to say soft neutrals - lots of cream, soft brown, pink and peach – to me there is something warm and casual about those colors.

I’m also a big fan of simple and intimate outdoor weddings especially with vintage/heirloom pieces mixed in and diy projects.

Just for fun-What is your ideal way to spend your weekends?

Sleeping in!! but that never happens. I love to visit local farmer’s markets, doing a bit of shopping and spending time with my nephew and niece.

Find more Postcards & Pretties Here:

Blog | Twitter | Flickr

* Find all the resources for the photos on Chris' blog! Thank you Chris for being a part of the series and sharing your inspiration with us! Can't wait to see more!

Fashion Crush: Madewell

Madewell is my current Fashion Crush:)

Hope each of you have a wonderful weekend! I am hoping to just get some time with my son and husband and celebrate the incredible daddy he is. If you need a last minute Father's Day card, just see yesterdays post!

DIY: Free Printable Father's Day Shirt & Tie Card

Father's Day snuck up on me pretty fast!  There are some really cute Shirt & Tie cards out there, but since I have limited stores where I live, I knew I couldn't go out and buy one. PLUS, as I have mentioned before, HANDMADE cards in my family are A BIG DEAL ;) So I made one for my son to give to his daddy. This is a super easy printable card for you to pass on to your father or hubby! Download, Print, and customize. Read further for directions!

(Download Tie Version Here)

(Download Bowtie Version)

Directions:

- Download and Print. (8.5 x 11)

- Cut along top center dotted line and fold and crease over solid lines.

- Cut the bottom dotted lines to create the tailored shirt look.

-Customize by adding colored paper on the inside fold, buttons on the shirt cuff, 

and tissue paper in the shirt pocket. Get creative!

Let me know how it goes! I hope this makes someone smile:)

Artistry: New Favorite Magazines

I absolutely love finding new magazines- online or in print. I have discovered a few new ones I wanted to share thanks to some lovely bloggers:)

(sweet paul)

(by fryd via A Diary of Lovely)

(Toast via Hooray)

Just received my hard copy of the House Issue and Style Issue. They are free:)

Hope you enjoy! Also, remember my post about Make Your Day Designs? I just received my first pattern from her in the mail. It is INCREDIBLE. If you were thinking about ordering a pattern- go for it!

News: Need your advice! + Shop Updates

Hi friends:) I just got back last night from our little vacation. We traveled to St. Louis and Louisville for a wedding, visiting old friends, my sister's graduation party, and soaking up time by the pool:D I am wiped out and avoiding unpacking...he he. It was so much fun though and well worth it.

I am in the process of adding lots of new items to the shop. Just wanted to give you a peak of my design process. I am always finding inspiration through imagery and it often turns into an accessory design:) Here is just one example..

(Little Miss Modern Circles Headband)

Also, NEED SOME ADVICE! I would like to open a second online shop site other than etsy for a few reasons. Does anyone have a shop on bigcartel.com or any other online market place? I need your feedback! Let me know your experiences...pros and cons!

Look forward to catching up with some blog reading:) Be sure and check the shop for new items popping up this week!

Inspiration: Meet Katrina of Pugly Pixel

*You all know I am crazy about Pugly Pixel Clip Art. Well, the girl behind Pugly Pixel happens to be a super cool chic with many talents. So, I was thrilled when Katrina agreed to interview today!  Thank you so much for letting us get to know you better!*

In 5 words, describe Katrina: easy breezy beautiful cover girl. Just kidding -- I've been watching a lot of America's Next Top Model. Did you know that there are ANTM marathons on Saturdays?  

When someone asks you about what you do for a living, how do you describe it? I maintain websites, but mostly these days, I simply follow the fun and try earnestly to follow my enthusiasms.

(Free Paper Buffet Download)

What got you to start blogging?

In college, I applied for a job on campus.  It was a programming job and I thought I had it in the bag because I had a lot of computer science theory under my belt.  But they were looking for someone Net-savvy, someone adept in the latest (latest at the time, anyway) Web 2.0 technologies, which revolves around social networking communities, blog platforms, and such, none of which were really familiar to me.  After failing the interview miserably, I decided that the best way to learn about Web 2.0 would be to immerse myself in a lot of social networking communities (blogging, Flickr, Twitter etc). The best side effect of that failed interview was blogging, which has been my creative outlet. The blog has also opened doors for friendships with like-minded people.

(Free Tape Strips Download)

You are constantly spoiling us readers with free downloads and resources. What sites do you turn to for inspiration? Most of my inspiration for the freebies come from the world of print media and stationery.  I take note of simple and effective magazine layouts.  Japanese craft books are another source of inspiration. 

( Mr. Rabbit Sir Etsy Shop)


Your favorite way to unwind on the weekends: America's Next Top Model marathons.  I love Mr. Jay.   Mostly, though, I enjoy watching transformations and the make up artists on that show really deserve more credit.  Oh, and when I'm not watching ANTM, I'm usually chuckling at the cooky antics of my pups, Taco and Chico.

Find Katrina Here:

Blog | Shop | Twitter

Soc Chic Giveaway Winner!

Thank you for all who participated in this fabulous giveaway and supported such a great event by Jess LC. Congratulations to the winner of the Match Made In Heaven Necklace!! # 35 Emskyroony!!

Artistry Feature: Shop by M

I was so happy to come across Michelle's blog.  Not only is that lovely, but wait till you see her shop. She told me her and her husband are the dynamic duo behind Lovely by M. Jewelry and Prints! These sets of prints and placemats are definately going on the must have list! Best part- they are AFFORDABLE!! Pay a visit if you can, and tell her what you think!

Lovely by M | Shop by M

Meet me at A Diary of Lovely

Hey friends:) Just wanted to let you know I am over at Helena's lovely blog for her "My Stuff" series:) Helena is such a sweetheart and I have loved getting to know her. I was so honored that she asked me to be a guest! So if you have a moment, head on over and say hello!

*CLOSED* Soc Chic Giveaway Week from Jess LC!

Hello lovely readers! So sorry this is late! Blogger was down all day:( I am SO honored to be asked by Jessica of Jess LC Jewelry to participate in this years Social Causes Giveaway!! Beautiful jewelry designed for beautiful causes! 

Soc Chic All Week Rules

Between now and this Friday, June 11th, hop around to the blogs linked to the necklaces below. Each blog is giving away a different Soc Chic necklace. Which means you have nine chances to comment and win Soc Chic necklaces.

Here on IHOD, I will be giving away the Match Made In Heaven Necklace! 

I love this necklace and the organization the sales supports! 

TO WIN IT! : Visit Jess LC Jewelry and Leave a Comment letting us know your favorite item!

About the Necklace:

“This necklace is for those who are blessed to have a special connection with someone in their lives.” Gold-filled or sterling silver necklace with silver-plate wing pendant and two hand-wrapped freshwater pearls. 16 inches.

About the Social Cause:

Imerman Angels is a one on one cancer support charity. Their free service connects cancer fighters, survivors, and caregivers anywhere in the world so that nobody faces cancer alone. Pair ups are based on cancer type, stage, age, gender, treatments, location, etc. Everyone deserves an “angel” for inspiration and support through the fight. 

Don't forget to visit the other lovely ladies hosting the soc chic giveaways!

1.) MakeUnderMyLife 2.) KindOverMatter 3.) LiveCreatingYourself 4.) JenLovesKev

5.) ElementsofStyle 6.) LifeintheFunLane 7.) MLovesM 8.) IshandChi

Thank you for your support! I invite you to follow or subscribe to the blogs you visit. We love to keep in touch with you! Good luck! Hope you win one of these beauties!

Style: J. Crew Wedding Launch

If the J.Crew Wedding Line had launched just a few years ago, I am pretty sure I would have chosen the bridesmaids gowns from here. They are elegant, graceful, and charming....Check out the full collection here. They now sell everything wedding!

My sister and I always joke about how we wish we could get married all over again. My wedding day was the best day of my life. For you bride to be's- hope this is inspiration for you! 

Happy Weekend!


P.S. So grateful to Katrina of PuglyPixel for giving Graphic Designer's like me such fun clip art resources! 

DIY: Home Decor Letters

Its been a crazy week! My sister hosted a  "Headbands and Happy Hour" event for IHOD which was so much fun! Can't wait to share the details. For now, I wanted to pass along this DIY. Read the full post at Joy Ever After. She has so many creative ideas!

If you have a DIY you would like to be featured, send me an email!

News: Blog Designs + Giveaway Winner

I had the priviledge of working with Alli of One Pearl Button for her blog makeover:) My favorite part of the design process is working with the blogger to achieve a look that matches their style and content of the blog. Alli is such a lovely person and her blog is full of craftiness and inspiration...Take a look!

A friend of mine asked me to help her start a blog for a non-profit organization called Birthday Cakes 4 Free. There are chapters nationwide. I was so happy to be able to help this cause in a small way. I am excited to see how many lives this program will touch! Still tweaking some details here, but be the first to view the blog launch:)....

Lastly....to announce the GIVEAWAY WINNER!! Via Random.org:

#6  - MICHELLE!

Thank you for all who entered! It was the biggest turn out yet! If you didn't win, I promise you will eventually!;) I have an exciting giveaway coming up for you this month! Stay tuned!