Adorable Salt and Pepper Shakers

Every now and then I run into a really great find that is not on sale or clearance and is just a really great value. I was at Pier 1 Imports the other day and they had the greatest selection of salt and pepper shakers. They were so cute and cheap! Here are a few. I bought the birds for only $3/set! I could not believe it. I thought the owls were cute but I LOVE the all white look. These would be great for a little gift.

Mouse and Cheese set $7.95/set

Birds...only $3/set!

Owls $5/set

Spot the Trend - Animal Prints

Animal prints have been popping up in both interiors and on the runway. While many people may be unsure about using animal prints, they can be used to make a room feel ultra-chic and flirty. The important thing to remember when choosing your animal print pieces is that less is more. By adding a rug or some throw pillows, you will achieve the look you want without it becoming overwhelming to the eye. Here are some photos I found from Elledecor.com that illustrate how animal prints can be used the right way.

It is important to not spend too much money on any trend. I find that the best way to introduce something like an animal print to your space is in accents. Things that are inexpensive and can be changed if you get tired of them. Below I have found some fantastic and affordable accents that allow you to explore your inner animal without breaking the bank.

These zebra pillow covers from Westelm.com are 20" x 20" and are only $31 each.

I found this Zebra Paiden Lamp on Pier1Imports.com and it is a steal, on clearance for only $19.98! This Cheetah chair is also from Pier 1 Imports, for $199.95 it will make a statement in any room.

Last but not least, these amazing Zebra Pillar Candles from Zgallerie.com. I LOVE these and they are only $9.95 for the smaller one and $12.95 for the larger one.

Crazy for Wall Decals

If you are looking to add that WOW factor to your walls, but don't want to break the bank wall decals could be just the thing for you. I found these great wall decals on Etsy.com (DesignwithAZ's shop). I love this circle decal. It is only $28 and you can choose your color. The cherry blossom decal is sophisticated and only $35! These adhesives won't ruin your wall, take minutes to put up and are easily removed.

Thomas O'Brien for Target

Thomas O'Brien is a renowned interior designer based out of NYC. He has a successful design studio Aero Studios and a retail store in Manhattan. In 2005 O'Brien paired with Target to create a line of home furnishings that combined his designer touch with affordability. The result was spectacular. The pieces are part of his Vintage Modern collection and they seamlessly marry accessibility with timeless design for all. The collection includes bath textiles and accessories, bedding, lighting and more. I have selected some of my favorites and have shared them below. Enjoy!

These hand painted dishes are only $19.99 - $29.99! After finding these I actually want a set for myself. I also LOVE this chenille floral rug...and it's only $129 for the 5x7! Lastly, this Menswear Duvet in Espresso is simple and elegant. You could really add some pop with some bright pillows and accessories. It's only $69.99 for the queen and $79.99 for the king. At that price you will have plenty of money leftover for those pillows. Check out the whole collection at Target.com

Inspiring Bedrooms

So, I was not planning on posting today, but I was looking at Housebeautiful.com and came across these bedroom designs. I thought they were so inspiring that I wanted to pass them along to you.

Friday Afternoon Splurge

Ok, so we gave up our daily latte, and we started cooking at home more often, maybe we started riding our bikes to save on gas; we are frugal every day of our lives. With the economy the way it is we have to be conscious of where every penny goes. But, every now and then we have to splurge. Whether its that Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair we've been dying for or that Restoration hardware rug, some splurges are worth it. I have found some wonderful items that I would give up my lattes for and I am going to pass them along to you. Enjoy!




I love, love, love this Avalon headboard in bright yellow. Yellow is so trendy right now, it looks great with the black and white, but I think it would be fabulous with gray and white as well. You can find this headboard at Roomservicestore.com. They also have stores in both LA and Palm Springs. It is $695 for queen size and $795 for king size.





I have always loved this Markham Console Bar. Its AMAZING! How great for entertaining and storage. It was inspired by an antique work bench and definitely has a rustic feel, but could easily work in a more modern space. It is available at Potterybarn.com for $1,399.





This Hibiscus Sideboard from Jimmiemartin.co.uk is gorgeous. All of the pieces by these designers are one of a kind works of art. This piece retails for 2970.00Euros.

Amazing Accessories Under $15

Accessories are the jewelry of your home. Without them a room can feel unfinished and with them it can feel like home. Not every piece in your space has to be special but you can use hand picked accessories to infuse your own personality into your home. Here are some affordable accessories that I love.

The Natalie Lantern from Urbanbarn.com available in orange, green and blue, on sale for $14. This would be a great addition to a living room, bedroom or outdoor space.

This Felicia Throw in Cerise from IKEA is available in 6 colors and is only $9.99. Hang it over the arm of a sofa or chair for an instant color pop.

I love these Twilight Tealights from Zgallerie.com. They would add a little bling to any room in your house, for only $12.95 each.

Worldmarket.com sells these gorgeous Medallion Stitch Toss Pillows, available in purple or red for only $13.59 each.