Category Archives: Holiday

Emerald Party Inspiration

Posted in Holiday, Inspiration, Party by

You may have heard by now that Pantone named emerald the color of the year for 2013. It’s a bold yet sophisticated hue that (for some of us) may seem a bit intimidating to style into our wardrobes and homes. Don’t worry though, we’re in luck because emerald green is perfect for a St. Paddy’s Day celebration! 

emerald party inspiration from one charming life

balloons // cocktails // cake // garland // Dom // napkins

Shades of emerald will make any party lively and chic. So, for your next event, why not channel your inner Dorothy and take a trip to the Emerald City?

(Speaking of which… does anyone want to see the new Oz movie with me?) ;)

XO, Mariel

For Your Valentine

Posted in Cards, Gifts, Holiday by

Valentine’s day is right around the corner. I’m a huge fan of flowers and dark chocolate, but one thing I look forward to each year is getting a sweet card from Mr. Husband.

Show your love this holiday with a pretty card for your sweetheart or BFF.  There are so many fresh and lovely designs to be found, and I promise they’ll make your loved one smile. Here are a few of my favorites…

Valentines day cards handpicked by one charming life

1) Sparks by Blue Eye Brown Eye, $8

2) Peace, Love & Cupcakes by Parrott Design Studio, $4.50

3) Je t’aime by Rifle Paper Co., $4.50

4) Zealous Arrows by Lindsay Letters, $5

5) Hearts & Hearts by Inclosed, $3

I adore Rifle Paper Co.’s hand-painted flowers and hot pink lettering. What’s your Valentine’s day tradition? Do you send or exchange cards?

XO, Mariel

Gold Stamped Gift Tags

Posted in DIY, Gifts, Holiday by

I love wrapping presents. Almost as much as I love giving them. Even as a kid, each Christmas I looked forward to helping my mom wrap up the gifts for my sister and brother. I think it has something to do with the care that goes into wrapping up a gift into a pretty little package, and then seeing the anticipation of your friend/family/loved one as they open it and see what’s inside.

This year, I wanted to add a special touch to our Christmas presents. I created a calligraphy ‘noel’ stamp and embossed it everywhere I could in glittery gold ink. {For instructions on gold embossing, visit this tutorial by Antiquaria on Oh So Beautiful Paper.} I wrapped our presents with kraft paper and a bunch of gold washi tape. Then tied the tags on with twine bows.

gold holiday noel gift tag

kraft paper, twine and gold wrapped Christmas presents

DIY gift tag with gold embossed custom stamp

Holiday stamps are a quick and easy way to add a bit of beauty to your Christmas presents. Mix and match stamps from your local craft store, or check out some of the pretty designs from these talented ladies below.

charming holiday rubber stamps

peace joy love    //    baby it’s cold outside    //    to: from:

P.S. Want to tie the perfect bow? Learn how to here. :)

Enjoy customizing and handing out your pretty gifts this Christmas!

XO, Mariel

Dreaming of a French Farmhouse Christmas

Posted in Holiday, Home by

Earlier this year, I discovered a blog called Dreamy Whites. And I fell in love with the precious antiques and handmade goods Maria offers on her site. When I saw her holiday collection, I adored it all and couldn’t help sharing it with you. Forget any sugar plums… I’ve had visions of vintage French grain sacks dancing in my head. :)

The Dreamy Whites shop is filled with handmade items constructed from antique European linens and grain sacks. These lovely items would add charm to any home for the holidays…

vintage french zinc wash bucket as a christmas tree stand

vintage red french turine

Antique French Linen Christmas Stockings

grain sack advent calendar- french farmhouse christmas

vintage grain sack tree skirt

You can shop for the items pictured above here. And don’t forget to check out the rest of the Dreamy Whites Shop for everyday beauties for your home.

XO, Mariel

Gifts for the Holiday Hostess

Posted in Gifts, Holiday, Home, Style by

The tree is up and sparkling, our holiday festivities are all mapped out, and it’s even starting to get cold outside in Texas. Christmas is coming, and I’ve been doing some serious holiday shopping. I love picking out Christmas presents. But sometimes it’s hard to find that perfect gift. I’ve scrolled through gorgeous gift guides on Pinterest and clicked on websites filled with beautiful things… but I believe you can never have enough inspiration. :)

So that’s why I did some research and put together a few of my favorite gift ideas. I’m a huge fan of neutrals, and this year I haven’t been able to get enough GOLD. These pretty presents are perfect for any friend, relative, or hostess who loves to entertain.

chic and affordable holiday hostess gifts in gold and black

1) Chalkboard Spice Jar from Anthropologie, $12

2) Agate Cheese Plates from Jayson Home, $60

3) Confetti Place Mats from Anthropologie, $28

4) Little Luck Horseshoe from Suitor, $32

5) Cheese Markers from Nordstrom, $30

6) Guest Towel from Style Vista, $18

7) Cheers Glasses from Williams & Sonoma, $49

Which one would you like to receive? I’m eyeing it all…. ;)

Happy hunting!

XO, Mariel

Thanksgiving “Graffiti” Table

Posted in DIY, Holiday, Home by

I can’t believe Thanksgiving is tomorrow! This holiday has totally snuck up on me. If you’re in the same boat, you may be feeling a bit unprepared this year. So if you’re looking for a fun and creative way to decorate your table tomorrow, here’s an easy last-minute idea.

Crafty and Colorful Thanksgiving Table Decor from One Charming Life

Line your table with a long piece of kraft paper. Set-up your favorite dishes and silverware, and then add in a few white pens. Ask your guests to get creative and write or draw what they are thankful for. And then sit back and watch the creativity begin!

Casual easy Thanksgiving table setting. Write on kraft paper what you are thankful for.

This is a great conversation starter and a wonderful idea for the little ones. Plus, the set-up doesn’t get much simpler. You could also write your guests’ names next to their plates, or draw arrows and label any food on the table. Be creative and have fun!

Alright, it’s time to start some baking. I’m testing a few new “paleo” pie crusts this year… what new recipes will you be trying? Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

XO, Mariel

Simple Thanksgiving Table Decor. Kraft Paper and Pens. White Ceramic Turkey.

Supplies . . .  kraft paper  +  white pens 

On the Table . . .  plates  +  napkins  +  glasses  +  napkin rings  +  turkey

Spooky Chic Halloween

Posted in Holiday, Inspiration, Party by

Halloween is just around the corner… how will you be celebrating? Here’s a little inspiration for a grown-up, gilded fete to help you and your bests celebrate in style.

Happy haunting!

XO, Mariel

black and gold halloween party inspiration from one charming life

Sources: Chic Lace Mask via A White Carosel ~ Black and Gold Halloween Decor from Better Homes and Gardens, photo via Little Lovable ~ Ichabod Crane Pumpkin from Better Homes and Gardens ~ Cheese Plate from A Cup of Jo, photo by Jamie Beck ~ Glittery Gold Chocolate Cake from Desserts for Breakfast ~ Mini Moet & Chandon bottles on ice via A Bit of Bees Knees