Monthly Archives: August 2012

Color-Blocked Books

Posted in DIY, Home, Style by

Color-blocking has been popping up all over the fashion world. I love this playful trend, and there’s no reason why we should limit it to our wardrobes. If stacking an outfit with bold hues makes a fashion-forward statement, why not try it in our homes as well?

Color-blocking a bookshelf is a quick and easy way to update your living space. Pairing together blocks of colorful books with neutral furniture can make a huge visual impact in any room. Take our living room for example…

Color blocked books via One Charming Life

Before the switch, our bookshelves were a tad chaotic but full of hidden potential. Grouping the books by color livened up the space and brightened up our simple white walls. I love the fact that these everyday items are now a vibrant part of our decor.

Color-Coded Bookshelf via One Charming Life #ColorBlock

Want to give it a try?

Here are a few tips on color-blocking your shelves…

  • Make sure your furniture and surrounding decor is simple and neutral so that you don’t overdo it. Neutrals like white, grey, brown or black will help tie your ‘ensemble’ together.
  • A rainbow of colors simply doesn’t work in every space. Be selective in choosing which books (and colors) you’ll display; edit your shelves just as you’d edit an outfit.
  • Bright-colored books contrasted against neutral shelves will add a vibrant pop to your décor.
  • If you’d like a more low-key look, try mixing different hues of the same color. For example, group together sky blue, royal blue and navy colored books in a room with blue decor.
  • Opposites attract. Don’t be afraid to mix bold colors! (See the pink and red books in Candace Bushnell’s apartment below…)

And a few beautiful examples for inspiration…

Annabelle Kerslake via Design Sponge

Modern pops of color mixed with antiques in Annabelle Kerslake’s charming Australian home {sneak peek via Design Sponge}.

John and Tyke Colorful Bookshelf via Apartment Therapy

Books transform this wall into a dynamic focal point {Jon & Tyke’s Modern Cabin via Apartment Therapy}.

Cynthia Rowley's Manhattan Apartment - pink books via Elle Decor

Designer Susan Forristal styled this simple shelf into a playful masterpiece in Candace Busnell’s Manhattan apartment {via Elle Decor}.

Will you be trying this trend in your home?

Love it or leave it – let me know below! XO, Mariel

It’s a Wonderful Life

Posted in Design, Lettering, Wedding by

I love when my friends come up with a creative idea and ask me to be a part of it. That’s why I was thrilled when Anna approached me about making a special wedding gift for her cousin.

Anna was inspired by the couple’s wedding song, “It’s a Wonderful Life”, and wanted to incorporate the lyrics in her gift. We discussed a few ideas and I began sketching out the song’s chorus in calligraphy. After some tweaking on the computer, the words were printed on canvas and stretched over a wooden frame.

I love the end result. It’s such a wonderful blessing to have found that special person, and I hope this little piece of art helps the happy couple think back on sweet memories from their wedding day.  XO – Mariel

Calligraphy quote on canvas via One Charming Life

"Wonderful Life" - calligraphy print via One Charming Life

British Tea Party

Posted in Inspiration, Party by

The past four days have been super exciting. I love watching the Olympics, especially our incredibly talented women’s gymnastics team. And who didn’t love the Queen’s entrance at the opening ceremonies?

As you gather with friends to cheer on your favorite athletes, you might find yourself browsing the web for creative ways to celebrate. I’ve seen so many cute Olympic-themed pins on Pinterest lately, but most of these adorable ideas have been geared toward the kiddos. Since I’m not quite there yet, I thought I’d put something together for us ladies and gents. If I was going to throw a party in honor of the games, this would be it!

Since the big event is being held in London, it’s only appropriate to throw a grown-up tea party in honor of Union Jack. Pick your favorite blend and serve high tea with these adorable chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies. You can’t go wrong.

If tea isn’t your cup of… tea (sorry, I had to), then sip on Pimm’s, a traditional English summer drink. Follow this link for an easy recipe. Or for more guy-friendly fun, gather beers from around the world to represent the teams (like Double Diamond from England, Guinness from Ireland, Corona from Mexico, and obviously your favorite home-grown brew too).

If you’re crafty, whip up some gold, silver and bronze decorations or purchase the darling garland below from Fabulously Handmade.

Alright… let’s get the celebration started! Cheers, and GO team USA! :)

British Tea Party in honor of the Olympics - from One Charming Life

Sources:  Union Jack Fruit Pizza from Betty Crocker ~ Shortbread Tea Bag Cookies from Le Petrin ~ Gold, Silver and Bronze Garland from Fabulously Handmade ~ Fleur De Lys Teapot from Anthropologie ~ “Go for the Gold” Pineapple Truffles from Kitchen Meets Girl ~ Pimm’s photo via The Handbook, you can purchase Pimm’s at Spec’s or your local liquor store.