3 Things You Must Do Before You Decorate

I will starting a project in my parents basement on Monday...the author of this post must have read my mind!

3 Things You Must Do Before You Decorate

Local Places I Love- Careful Peach Boutique- Oak Park, IL

Whenever I'm in need of chic inspiration or exploring, I drop into Careful Peach Boutique-a wonderful shop in Oak Park that specializes in selling Euro-inspired home decor. The store is fascinating, elegant, and full of lovely, yet inexpensive treats.  (It's also right around the corner from my office, and I walk past it everyday to and from work.) I have yet to introduce myself- though I gawk at everything when I stop in to browse. I always leave feeling 200% better and smelling like their lavender cream.

Image taken from: bellaink.typepad.com

I can't wait to start my wishlist!(Here's a sample: handmade soaps, handpoured candles, table and bed linens, china, utensils)

Great Inspiration Ideas: Fabulous Designer Foyers from House Beautiful

I love House Beautiful- I've been a subscriber since 2000 (while I was still in high school). I first used the magazine as inspiration ideas for decorating my dorm rooms, college apartments, and summer bedrooms at my parents house.

I've been looking for ideas for my foyer and I came across this article and slideshow.

Take A Look!
http://www.housebeautiful.com/photos/fabulous-designer-foyers

Thrifting Finds 12.01.10- Elmhurst, IL Goodwill

Its snowing outside and I'm self-banished to my house even though I *really* want to stop by the Clybourne Salvation Army in Chicago. Oh well...we'll see how the weather is in about an hour.

A few days ago after work I drove to the Goodwill in Elmhurst to unwind and scout goods. I found some really nice things- it was quite a joy. Among the finds were linen pillows, a Wedgwood china box and brand new, sealed French linen waters. I slept very well that night!

Linen Pillows
Linen pillows have always been on my ultimate wish-list. However, I have trouble finding the exact pillow that I picture in my mind. Someday, I need to take a sewing class.

These particular pillows were high on the shelf above the linens. Since I'm barely 5' tall, there was a little jumping involved. After passing visual and smell test (don't take dirty, stinky pillows home!!), I loaded all four into the cart.

Upon taking the pillows home, I removed the pillow inserts, turned the cases inside out and washed all of them on the delicate cycle. I allowed the pillows and covers to air-dry.

At first I was worried about the pillows blending into the decor, but it turned out pretty decent!
 

Wedgwood Trinket Box
Perfect condition and beautiful and $3.99! It was immediately washed and added to the top of the dresser in my wardrobe.