Emily Henderson's Blog, page 159
July 24, 2021
The Shorts We Bought That Made Us Feel Really Good (And The Ones We Would Skip) – AKA A Very Honest Review Post


Here we are again, on the hunt for a great pair of shorts. It was 10 am Wednesday morning, LA heat was already ablaze, we were sweaty and ready to spend a half day trying on shorts for the sake of the blog. It’s what influencers do. But in all seriousness, us EHD gals were on the same page in that we needed shorts for summer (this heat is apparently going NOWHERE) and we agreed that buying shorts is not a breezy task. It should be, but it’s not. Is there some conspiracy that brands are behind where they menacingly mix and match sizing and laugh behind our backs as we try them on in horrible fluorescent dressing room lighting? Judging how the world is going right now, I am afraid anything is possible.
Funnily enough, this post is actually coming around almost two years to the day since our last shorts review post, so it felt serendipitous to be back at the Americana (an outdoor mall in Glendale) albeit this time donning masks in this strange new world. We started the day off extremely excited to be in each other’s presence, looking forward to lunch at Bacari (the absolute BEST in town IMO), and practically giddy with the promise of new shorts. But enough talk, let’s get into the nitty-gritty: Our task was to try on as many shorts as possible, take photos, and give you our HONEST reviews. This post is 100% #notsponsored, just fueled by grit and determination to find the perfect pair. Let’s begin.
RyannShorts Relationship Status: In theory I love denim shorts but hate how brands use the most arbitrary metric to determine sizing. I just want to have some faith that I can go into most stores and have a slight idea of what my size will be. Emotionally speaking, I don’t have any qualms about showing my legs, I just want the length to be long enough that my a** doesn’t hang out and I want the rise to be HIGH. The higher the better. I also am a weirdo in that I prefer my denim shorts to be rigid rather than stretchy even if that means they are widely less comfortable to sit in. Basically, I am down to take my shorts off at the end of the day and see every seam imprinted on my body.
Go-To Size: 32
Height: 5’8


Size: 14
Why I like them (or don’t): I already own these shorts so this is technically cheating. It was probably a good thing that I started with these since the day would prove that shorts are a diabolical article of clothing. But these are good. Great wash. Good length and a healthy amount of stretch and legroom. The ones I have at home are a size 12 but I like the size 14 better. I am all about looser clothing lately and these were looser but still form-fitting (aka I wasn’t swimming in them just really comfortable).

Here is the side view and as you can see they don’t hug my thighs which I am so grateful for. By the way, Target actually has killer shorts that don’t just fit, but fit WELL. What a concept!



Size: 14
Why I like them (or don’t): These have the same shape and feel as the ones above. I love the exposed buttons and the light wash is very good. They might even have a little bit more legroom which I appreciate and they are wildly comfortable. Like you can sit all damn day in these and feel like you’ve been wearing pajamas. I clearly felt really cute in them and now I am wondering why I didn’t buy? I think I was thinking this shopping day was going to be much more successful than it was and didn’t want to put all my eggs in one basket so to speak. They are currently in my cart and I might buy them by the time you finish this post. If just ONE person comments below that I should buy them, I will love you for justifying my inevitable purchase.


Size: 32
Why I like them (or don’t): After not finding any shorts in my size at Madewell (seriously, they didn’t have anything in stock over a size 30) I am annoyed at this point, feeling like shorts are the enemy. Or perhaps more accurately, brands that make shorts are the enemy. I am over brands that don’t understand how to make shorts for bigger bodies. They need to not only expand the waistband but also increase the rise!!! When you have a belly there just needs to be more fabric and because in this case there wasn’t, these were not as high-waisted as they should have been and instead of going straight across, the waistline made a super unflattering V shape, exposing my stomach. Needless to say, I skipped these!


Size: 32
Why I like them (or don’t): This one made me laugh so I had to include. They are a size 32 and huge in the waist but fit snug in the thighs. This was right after I tried on these Levi’s that were a size 34 that fit like they should have been a normal size 32. I am not sure if I even like this length on me, but I was still down to try. Alas, the sizing was way off and further proved that brands need to start prioritizing more body types. Just like, have more fit models?? It shouldn’t be that hard.


Size: 31
Why I like them (or don’t): Here we have the clear winner of the day. I ended up buying them despite the high price point because A) I need to work on self-control and B) I fell in love with the wash and fit immediately. In the moment, I might have been desperate to find THE one so I won’t leave out the fact that I had some scary buyer’s remorse as soon as I left the store. Luckily though, once I was home I put them on again and I do truly love them. I am wearing them now in fact but you should know they have NO stretch so if you want comfort over style I’d skip these. They are true to size (FINALLY) although they could have more of a high waist. Like I said the higher the better!!
Okay, this concludes my journey so let’s move on to the rest of team EHD. Take it away, Caitlin.
CaitlinShorts Relationship Status: I don’t know WHAT is going on, but my self-esteem has been SOARING over the past few months. I think I’ve just finally come to terms with myself – like, this is what I look like, this is how my body looks, and IT’S FINE. To be fair, it’s still a bit of a work in progress – when I first saw my ~gams~ in the pics from today my internal monologue literally said, “Buzz, your girlfriend…woooooof” – but then I shut that self-talk down real fast. Like, yes, I am very pale and my legs look very jiggly in certain lighting situations (and they can also look dynamite in other lighting situations!!) but I am also an ADULT LADY who is too tired of letting REFRACTED LIGHT dictate the way I feel about myself. I’m too ornery for this. When we ran this post 2 years ago I was like “ehhhhh, I can go either way with shorts, hehe!” but now I’m militantly here to say “IT IS TOO DAMN HOT AND I WILL BE STRUTTING ABOUT IN MY BREEZY, COMFY PANTS.”
On a less self-empowerment note, though – finding shorts that I can wear has always been a struggle. I just measured to get some clarity and have a 15″ waist-hip difference (you’d literally never be able to tell as my preferred style of top can best be described as “muumuu-esque”) but finding shorts that pull up over my hips/butt and don’t squeeze the ever-living bejeezus out of my vageen when I’m sitting is basically impossible. I don’t have many shorts to share today but I am VERY PASSIONATE about the shocking brand of choice
Go-To Size: 30 – 32 (My old pants still fit but I’m up ~20 pounds over the past year and now buy larger sizes so like, WHO’S TO SAY?)
Height: 5’8″


Size: XL
Why I like them…or don’t: These are $17 bucks, a great color, and they felt surprisingly luxe (like a really affordable version of the Madewell pull-on short that I normally recommend to folks who want a comfier short). There’s a ton of stretch – like, another person could have fit in there with me – so I could have gone down to the L, but it’s really hard for me to find shorts that don’t cling to my butt so I looooved the amount of literal breathing room these had in the legs. They’re one of the rare pieces of elastic clothing that I actually think you could dress up OR down, which is super impressive. Just as a side note: they’re described as “high-rise” and maybe it’s just because I need a lot of fabric to cover my butt but these are DEF like… “line below your belly-button-rise” at best. (Does anyone else have that???) I also bought that shirt in 2 colors because it’s AWESOME – it was $10, the fabric was so good (perfect amount of drape/flow), and I loved the length of the sleeves. Normally I’m an “invest in your basics” type but after trying this on I’m like “DON’T INVEST IN YOUR BASICS when this $10 shirt exists!!!!”


Size: 32
Why I like them…or don’t: Hi, uh, quick little venue change because Abercrombie doesn’t actually carry these in-store but they’re too good not to share. LET ME SCREAM FROM THE ROOFTOPS ABOUT THE ABERCROMBIE CURVE LOVE LINE. Ryann threw these on my radar and I am forever grateful – they’re made with extra space in the hips and thighs and I LOVE THEM. I usually go with a 31 for daily wear (I’m in the 31 in the opening photo and you’ll see another shot of me in the 31s with Jess below) but I’m actually obsessed with the way that these size 32s fit. TBH they’re too big at the waist – they definitely fall down below my belly button which kind of defeats the purpose of a high-waisted pant, so they need to be belted – but I’ve NEVER been able to find a loose jean short that gives me some room around my big ol’ thighs so these are my dream come true. I definitely wear this pair more for house stuff (cleaning, waiting for packages so I can run down the stairs in something that’s not PJs, running errands – really anything physical labor-y) but maybe one day I’ll pair them with a tight, non-blousy top to be like “BAM, LOOK, I HAVE A SHAPE!


Size: 32
Why I like them…or don’t: GAH. These, tragically, are my absolute favorite…and they’re too big because I sized up, like a dip. You can kinda see the fabric folding over itself in the front because there’s too much of it annnnd they’re also still falling down despite being belted BUT with all that said, I would 1 MILLION PERCENT reorder these in a smaller size. I have a feeling that these are the most popular curve love jean shorts (they’re ALWAYS sold out) but I love the way that they’re made – there’s tons of space in the legs, the structure feels great (the cut is way different from the earlier mom jeans in a way that I can’t identify but definitely prefer) and overall, these get 10/10 marks from me. If you’ve been on the fence about shorts, have an average American-sized body (especially if you’re larger in the hips/thighs), and don’t really want to put yourself through the whole try-on ringer, I am EMPHATICALLY recommending you to give Abercrombie’s curve love line a whirl. (My 2000s Hot Topic-shopping self would be SHOCKED to know that one day that sentence would cross my lips.)
JessShorts Relationship Status: Better than it’s been in a long time but still super fragile. After dealing with some health stuff that I may or may not talk about at some point (FYI I’m totally fine), I started walking most mornings back in March. I called it “Bunge’s Marching March Madness”. It was a dumb name and had not a thing to do with basketball but it helped and I’ve kept it going. So while I wish I could have pranced around in shorts at any of the myriad of sizes I have been over the past few years (or in this single year), only now am I actually comfortable enough to wear them outside my house (but also HUGE shout out to Megababe’s Thigh Rescue for making this actually possible because my baby-powder-between-the-thighs youth was worthless). Body positivity and/or body neutrality is the absolute goal but 33 years of severe mental conditioning is tough to shake amiright? But also please don’t be like old me and wear those shorts people!! It’s too damn hot!
Go-To Size: 28/29
Height: 5″ 3 3/4″

Size: 8
Why I like them…or don’t: I didn’t buy them but now I’m kinda regretting it. They were so cute and really comfortable. I just didn’t really need them. They are the perfect shorts where you don’t have to worry about anything “falling out”. Also perfect if you generally like a little more modesty in your shorts and great for running around with little ones. But are kinda a chic utilitarian look too, right? Ah, should I get them???

Size: 8
Why I like them…or don’t: I also didn’t get these but liked them a lot…especially for $18. The length and wash were nice but I was looking for a sturdier denim. But definitely cute and recommend. However, I bought that shirt! It didn’t photograph as cute as it is in person, but it’s a perfect lightweight summer top with a fun pattern which I’m trying to buy more of to spice up my wardrobe.

Size: 27
Why I like them…or don’t: First off I am NOT a 27 right now. So if you like these I would for sure size down at least one size depending on how you want them to fit. I didn’t try on a 26 but if I wanted them more fitted I think a 26 would have worked which is wild sizing, WILD. Look, I don’t hate “vanity sizing” because you know, society has thoroughly conditioned us/me to think the smaller the size the better. But a size 26 on me is straight-up laughable and just far too unrealistic that I couldn’t even pretend that might be real. This also echos Ryann’s point about sizing. Get it together brands! All this to say that I did really like them and they were very comfortable. But I didn’t buy them because I wasn’t on the hunt for white shorts (maybe I’ll actually get a pair early next summer). FYI they also come in a bunch of different washes online so white isn’t the only one in this fit. Em has them in a blue denim, loves them, and says to also size down depending on the amount of bagginess you want.
FUN FACT (or fun-ish): These clogs are from Madewell if you were eyeing them:)

Size: Medium
Why I like them…or don’t: I didn’t love these. Or maybe I should say, these would be great “inside shorts” for me because they felt like pajama bottoms. That isn’t a bad thing and you might LOVE the sound of that. They make them in a ton of colors so have at it:)


Size: 29
Why I like them…or don’t: Y’all these were THE ONES! But of course because why on earth would I NOT choose the most expensive pair of the day????? I love the fit, I love that they’re more of a mid-rise than a high-rise, the love the sturdiness of the denim, the distress, and the wash. My only small, small wish is that they had a zipper instead of buttons to fasten up these bad boys. Seriously though, that’s it. I just feel f*ing cool in them and that’s all this gal could ask for.
BUT WAIT! MY TOP! This cropped little shoulder-padded tank is so good! Trinny Woodall, who if you don’t follow you should because she’s funny, plays so hard with her fashion while still making everything look so chic and is very pro shoulder pads to add shape and interest to an outfit. It made me want a top with shoulder pads (she has one that’s really cute) and now I own one. It comes in a bunch of colors and there’s also a non-cropped option too. The ladies said I looked like “a nice gal that could also kick your butt is necessary” which honestly was the greatest compliment I could ask for when talking about my clothes. Don’t mess with Jess, you got that!?


Size: 28
Why I like them…or don’t: So I am still a little back on forth on these but I do love them a lot. The sizing is my biggest hurdle. The reason I got a 28 in these was because they are from the Curve Love line which gives you a couple of extra inches in the hips and leg area. So great, right?! I know Caitlin has already confessed her love for these and I concur. It’s really nice to not have a weird gap above your butt too! However, this size is snug but I can totally sit and breathe so there’s that. I should also say that I got a 29 in the not Curve Love option and they felt kinda big and not flattering. HOW? That makes me think a 29 in the kind I have will be even bigger??
So for the 28s, I can’t tell if I’ve just been hiding my body for so long that “showing it off” in smaller, tighter shorts just feels wild or if they are just a tiny bit too tight. IDK. I think I might keep them and get out of my comfort zone. It’s 2021 baby.

Shorts Relationship Status: I’ve always struggled to find shorts that are tight enough on the waist and baggy enough on the thighs. From what I hear from women in general, this is a common problem and I personally have only found success in one short: the recycled Levis from Urban Outfitters. I love these shorts. Maybe too much…I wear them almost every single day (they say low-waisted online but mine certainly are not) and I had another pair of the same shorts before too and literally wore them until they have holes and even then I sew up the holes and continue wearing them until I literally can’t anymore. Well, the pair I have right now is starting to get to the “overly worn and not in a good way” phase, so I knew now’s the time to find some new shorts. Why not buy the same recycled Levis? Well, I already have them ordered but the main issue is they’re recycled so each one fits a little different than the last…sigh. 8/10 times I like the fit of these shorts, but I ordered one recently that just wasn’t as good of a fit and I had to take it back (big sigh). That’s why I was so stoked to be going on this shopping excursion since I really really needed to do this myself anyway. And guess what? I found a pair!! Come join me on this journey…
Go-To Size: 26/27
Height: 5’7


Size: 26
I’ve always debated if I needed a pair of black shorts in my wardrobe or not, so when I saw these for only $18 I thought why not give them a try. I really like the way they fit (super stretchy and comfy) and they can either be longer or shorter (I rolled them up once in this photo) which is nice for versatility. I would have bought them except for my mission was more about denim shorts, but if I decide to finally get black shorts I might come back for these. I did get this shirt though on a side note because it was very comfy and cute (it’s gonna kill on zoom calls too) and it looks way more expensive than the $20 I spent on it.


Size: 24
I’ve tried these on a few times before and have never loved the fit on me, but Emily bought them and SWEARS by them (she said in our last meeting that these are the only shorts she wears now). Well, I figured out why I didn’t love the fit before…they run BIG. Especially if you like your shorts to fit tighter like I do. I sized down 3 sizes from what I normally am (but in my opinion most pants at Madewell run a little big so I usually always size down at least 1 size) so these are a size 24 and I finally like the fit. They’re not the stretchiest shorts in the world but also aren’t as stiff as Levis in my opinion. Also, since I’m going for a tighter fit in a “relaxed fit short” I felt like it was giving me a camel toe but Caitlin is a firm believer that all shorts do that no matter what and that they looked totally fine. All in all, I’d give these shorts a 9/10 but didn’t buy them in the end because I just wanted to see what else was out there and this was only our second stop. Honestly though, if I didn’t find another pair, I would have probably gone back for these.


I know Jess already discussed these, but just wanted to add that these shorts in white are MUCH stretchier and in my opinion are more comfortable than the denim ones (obviously because real denim really isn’t that comfortable until you break them in). I didn’t get these because I wear denim shorts way more than white, but if I was in the market for white shorts I would CERTAINLY come back for these.


Size: 27
Winner winner chicken dinner. In a not-so-surprising turn of events, I tried on some classic Levi 501s (not the recycled version but still VERY light-washed) and fell in love. These shorts are admittedly a little tighter on the thigh than the recycled ones I have and wear all the time, but I’m pretty sure that’s just because they haven’t had the chance to break in yet like the other ones have. I love that these have a raw hemline with a little rip (my other’s don’t have any rips so it’s fun to shake it up) and I love how high they come up on my waist. All in all these shorts get a 10/10 and therefore took all of my money.

There you have it, folks. We had a great time doing this for y’all so we hope it was informative or at the very least entertaining to watch us navigate being “influencers” for the day.
The post The Shorts We Bought That Made Us Feel Really Good (And The Ones We Would Skip) – AKA A Very Honest Review Post appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 23, 2021
Can You/I Have Too Much Tile In Your Kitchen And Baths? A Drywall/Plaster Vs Tile Debate Inspired By A Reader Comment (For The Farm…)


I feel like Carrie Bradshaw, but less sex columnist and more design writer. After a lot of reflection, provoked by a reader’s comment, I came to ask myself last week, “is a lot of tile really want we want? Are we over-tiling because we can and perhaps it’s not always the right choice?” Until recently I was on team “tile” everywhere, all the way – like in Jessica’s farmhouse kitchen above. Like a fashion stylist might love hats, I LOVE tile as a design element, a lot. I wrote more about the desire in this post but the idea is how you can take a simple tile and create high impact by putting it on all walls. It reflects the light, gives the rooms so much texture, and you barely need any art or accessories to dress it up. This was my intention a couple months ago in the kitchen and our main bath… until I read this comment from a reader, Lane, on the tile post…

From commenter Lane (edited slightly for context): I’m European, having grown up with it, I don’t like tile on all walls. I love the simple design without excess trims, but not tile all over. I think it’s based on limitations of the past. Homes were humid, people were scared of mold, there was steam, bacteria, no ventilation, often no window in a bathroom either. I love to leave some walls without any tile. It makes a bathroom look and feel warm, pleasant, approachable, room-like, spa-like. Kitchens also feel warmer like a place to gather rather than prep meat. These (drywall) are actually good parts of American design. Kitchens with tile everywhere remind me so much of butcher shops and fish markets. That’s a completely different feeling that I want in my kitchen. Finally, tile is much colder material than drywall, plaster or wallpaper, both in terms of actual temperature and its reflection. So that’s my case against it, having lived both in Europe and in the States. I do believe many of my European friends wouldn’t agree with me. But many of them actually change their mind when they come here. I’ll be curious to see what you do. I’m sure there are exceptions to what I think about tile all over. In any case, I just wanted to point out these things in case it might be helpful. Perhaps, you’ll find a way to mitigate this if you decide in favor of this.

Lane’s comment was so interesting to me and truly made me stop to think. Thank you, Lane. I love an opposing perspective based on real-life experiences. So when I perceive a ton of tile on all walls as beautiful (like above), I now see that it can also be read as sterile, “easy to clean,” and cold. Now, I think without a lot of natural light it’s nice to have a texture on your walls so the room doesn’t feel “dead” and to give it movement, but that texture could be wood or painted paneling, plaster, limewash, special molding, etc. It doesn’t have to be tile or even just drywall. And it made me wonder if in our main bathroom and kitchen we should do more plaster, less tile, which saves on material AND labor and maybe it will make it feel warmer and give us more of the vibe we want? I’m not talking backsplash or near wet surfaces, just on the walls away from where water can actually damage.
A TEST CASE – OUR MOUNTAIN BATH

So I gave myself a test: I love the vibe of our bathroom at the mountain house and while we are infusing more color in the farm, and it will have more of a traditional bent (grids on windows, more classic lighting, custom wood vanity), I want the same feeling – quiet, spa-like, warm and not overly designed. So as I was contemplating Lane’s comment I asked myself if I would want tile on more of the walls in this bathroom (not just behind sink and toilet), and the answer was not an immediate HELL YES. It was more of a “sure, that could be pretty if it’s quiet and with non-contrasting grout”. Here’s a rendering of our farm bath to give you an idea of the space (it’s not designed yet):

I think if everything else is really pretty (custom vanity that I’m PSYCHED about pretty stone countertop, huge windows, and blue-tiled floor). But then I wonder if it’s just not necessary to put on all walls. Anne’s vote is a huge “YES, MORE TILE” and Brian also thinks it will be extra beautiful (the tile we have chosen in here is SO PRETTY, high gloss and handmade from Pratt and Larsen with so much reflection and movement and a twist :)) But he admitted that it probably won’t be necessary to put it on multiple walls, either. I know it would be stunning, but would plaster actually be more the vibe we want? Aside from budget reasons, I ask myself, is less tile a better idea?
But plaster ain’t cheap. What we did at the mountain house on the walls is this almost fake plaster finish where after they mudded the drywall, they did a pretty messy hand trowel on the walls that left a lot of “plaster-like” schmears. Then we painted on top of it. This isn’t apparently common but as I’ve written about it before is much cheaper than a flat finish OR plaster, and kinda gave the same look and is very forgiving. You are supposed to do semi-gloss in the bathroom, but since we’ll have a closed shower door we aren’t going to – if we were to do drywall we’d do this hand plastered fake technique and paint a flat paint on top. That’s all to say that maybe we don’t even have to use plaster at all!
Here’s a close up of what it looks like (it’s super hard to shoot, sorry):


In-person we really like it (admittedly in these photos I’m not that impressed with it and it looks fake, but you barely notice it in person and it just looks warm and hand-done but not too much at all). Would I like proper plaster more? Yes, but the cost difference is huge especially if you are doing a big space. We’ll definitely price it out, too and it might be worth doing in some rooms but not all of them.
THE FARM KITCHEN = WITH OR WITHOUT TILE?So let’s analyze the mountain house kitchen, which has SUCH a good vibe and we LOVE its simplicity and warmth (admittedly I understyled these shots, but trust me that the light and wood are enough and you don’t really need “stuff” in here).

Would that wall be prettier with a simple stacked white tile? Maybe, right?? It was something we thought about but honestly I don’t miss it on a daily basis at all and I like how understated it is. Now to be fair the wood grain adds a lot of texture and movement so that’s why I pulled it back with a simple white quartz and no tile – letting the wood and windows really shine. But a matte white tile, stacked vertically up to the vaulted ceiling would be beautiful, actually – just on that back wall. No regrets, just fun to analyze and explore with you all.
SO WHAT ABOUT THE FARM KITCHEN?
In the farm kitchen, we have designed a ton of windows and skylights (as you know) to bring in light to the kitchen and living room. Right now in the renderings, we have tile in between the windows and up around the door, but the more Brian and I think about it the more I’m wondering if not only do we no need it but would the kitchen be warmer and more the vibe we are going for with less tile. Or is the tile around the windows going to be just so pretty? Especially with pretty light switches popping off it?

And here, below, is what it would look like if it were just a short backsplash up to the window and flanking the hood (again, not designed yet, guys).

One of the best/worst things about me is how open I am to new ideas, and frankly how much fun it is to explore different perspectives and figure out which one fits the best with what you are going for. There are some things that are not negotiable, but then others where seeing an opposing view might actually yield a result closer to the goal. Living and working in this home I want a certain feeling and it’s not an “OMG WOW SO MANY STATEMENTS”. It’s more of a “roasted Sunday chicken, comfortable furniture, and casual warmth” and then you slowly feel the vibe and see the details and quality of the materials. ARCIFORM is pretty darn exceptional at the details that make an older home feel appropriately designed. And Anne (founder and lead designer) is quite the tile pusher It’s a pretty darn fun debate if you ask me and I don’t really think there is a way to lose or be “wrong” if you choose the right tile for the vibe you want – it can always be more understated even if it’s a high quantity.
Thoughts?
Opening Image Credits: Design by Jessica Helgerson and Yianni Doulis | Photo by Aaron Leitz and Lincoln Barbour | via Architectural Digest
The post Can You/I Have Too Much Tile In Your Kitchen And Baths? A Drywall/Plaster Vs Tile Debate Inspired By A Reader Comment (For The Farm…) appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 22, 2021
How To Throw An Elevated Garden Party with PRESS Premium Seltzer + Sustainable Outdoor Party Styling Tips


It’s the summer of safe, small gatherings outside and are we ready. So today I have partnered with PRESS, a woman-founded, independently owned premium alcohol seltzer to show you how you can throw a little backyard seltzer garden party in an elevated yet casual way. We took over my friend’s backyard, styled it all out, brought the EHD crew over, drank some PRESS, and laughed A LOT.
Tip #1: Bring The Indoors Out To Elevate The Space (And Avoid Waste)
Farm Table (similar) | Fabric (similar)| Pink Napkins | Copper Beverage Tub| Blue & Gray Plates | Pitcher Vase (similar) | Black Tray (similar) |Tray (similar)
Not everyone has extra pretty outdoor tables or sets of 12 matching plates, but for parties you can absolutely bring your indoor furniture, glassware, dinnerware, and linens outside and it will instantly elevate the space. It will also make it look and feel more special and helps reduce single-use waste. None of this has to match, just choose a color palette and play in that world.
By the way, the PRESS can is fully recyclable and their packaging has been designed to be as well, and the can itself is attractive so you can skip the glassware if you chose.

You’ll notice that we have a stack of three different plates and different pink napkins – it works, I promise. For this party with PRESS, the cans are honestly so nice looking that you can leave them in buckets without glassware but if you use glassware just mix it up within the color palette to help it feel special (this can also help avoid people grabbing someone else’s drink). We added reusable glass straws because they are adorable plus they help make the drinking experience a little more fun:) It’s like a cooler wine tag.
Tip #2: Keep It Easy (But Delicious) With A Variety Of Top-Notch Seltzer Flavors
The hard seltzer movement is upon us but not all are created (or taste) equal. I signed up to do this partnership because A. I love supporting female-founded businesses (over say, large corporations that own most of the seltzer brands) and B. They taste VERY GOOD, as they were designed to be really flavor-forward, with no after-taste and truly delicious all-natural ingredients. PRESS has 8 different flavors, 4 per box which makes it really fun to provide variety. We love Lingonberry Elderflower, Pineapple Basil, Pomegranate Ginger, and Grapefruit Cardamom.
I also really love that they are easy drinking – meaning that with a slightly lower ABV (4%) so you can sip easily and responsibly.
Tip #3: Skip The Traditional Tablecloth
If you are covering a folding table I get the to-the-floor tablecloth choice, but it can look a bit “catering” or “wedding” and is just not necessary. Even a “too small” piece of cute fabric set diagonally brings in a ton of personality. It lets your wood shine through and still protects most of it. So next time you are at a flea market or thrift store and see a pretty piece of fabric or even a thin blanket, snag it and use it as a fresh tablecloth.
Tip #4: Create Multiple Drink/Food Stations For Good Flow
Avoid the bottleneck (ha) and provide easy access with multiple drink stations throughout your space (depending on the size of the space and # of guests).

Table (similar) | Table Runner (similar) | Terracota Bowl | Lantern | Wood Serving Board (similar) | Pitcher Vase (similar)
We put tubs with drinks on tables in multiple areas to help move the gathering and create multiple spaces for easy access.




The flowers at the grocery store or in your backyard are so pretty in the summer. Skip anything that looks too formal (or “arranged”) and opt for something more wildflower-y (aka weeds) next to peonies or white roses that you can likely get at the grocery store. If you are getting roses get them a couple of days in advance so that they look more open and pretty (rather than a closed tight bud).

We used pretty glasses as vases (aka you don’t need to necessarily buy “vases”) and old jam jars with votives for lighting.


There is something so satisfying about putting a bunch of ingredients on a board and making it look like art. Bowser is excellent at these and we call them “Boards by Bowser”.


See? SO pretty, easy to grab, and perfect for parties that are in-between meal times.
Tip #7: Create Pockets Of Conversation Areas
Chairs (similar) | Bistro Table | Canning Jars | Napkins | Wood Bowl
There was this little courtyard on the side of my friend’s house that I have ALWAYS wanted to shoot (it’s so sweet). So we rented furniture from FOUND Rental Co. in LA (they have SUCH good stuff, a ton of vintage and casual furniture, and great for parties). We turned it into a more intimate conversation area with bistro chairs and tables and allowed for some more intimate chats. Some of the EHD team (and their guests) arrived early so they hung out here while we finished shooting in the lounge area and it honestly was so great.



Canning Jars | Gold Card Holder
The PRESS cans all have a QR code on them that you can scan for fun questions that are great conversation starters. Of course with good friends you likely don’t need a prompt, but after a year of less socializing maybe we can all use a little prompt.

We also loved the idea of bringing out card games or BINGO to give everyone an activity. We find that even pulling out a deck of cards can change the vibe and make it feel casual and tells people that this isn’t a fancy affair.

Extra Large Cutting Board (similar)
I love the idea of layering rugs on the floor to create a soft lounging area and then using a big cutting board as a “table” on the floor to house food/drink.
Tip #9: Have Multiple Types Of Lighting For Good Ambience
I know I sound like a broken record but I believe strongly that lighting is key to good ambiance and good ambiance is key to people feeling relaxed and in whatever mood you want them to be in. I treat an outdoor space for gatherings like indoor – ideally you want multiple soft light sources peppered around the space – string lights, lanterns, and candles. We even added fairy lights at the food/drink tables (that don’t shoot well so we took them out of shots). Of course we had an awesome fireplace, too, which doesn’t hurt but you can see the candles on the stones lining the back and the lantern on the “tray” on the floor.


I never have professional photos of me and my friends, so I asked Sara to take one of me and Suzanne (her dress is linked here, because I know you all will ask – it’s awesome). She lit the fire with tortilla chips which I did NOT know was a thing, and her dog Boris joined in as well, obviously.
Tip #10: Good Friends = Good Party
It was SO FUN to have an occasion/excuse to see everyone safely. We kept it all outside and we are all vaccinated so those from the EHD team that were in town came plus the production team – Sara, Emily B., Hina, and Shade.

Hina, on the right, made all the charcuterie boards (under Bowser’s art direction #boardsbybowser) and has helped out on a lot of EHD shoots behind the scenes so it was nice to actually see her in person again and hang.

And that’s Shade, Sara’s brother who has been our amazing PA on most of our big shoots the last three years so he got to hang with the ladies. We joked that it looked like a “bachelor garden party” with all the ladies crowding around him, asking to “grab him for a second”.

We all snacked, caught up, and imbibed responsibly with PRESS, which was so refreshing, light, and delicious for a strangely humid LA day.

A huge thanks to PRESS for partnering on this garden party. PRESS is available nationwide. To find a local retailer near you, visit enjoypress.com. When you buy PRESS, you know that you are not only opting for a more delicious seltzer than others, but one that is female-founded and independently-run – which is refreshing
Thanks to Found Rentals Co. for all the major pieces of furniture and of course to Emily Bowser who led the execution of this awesome design, Hina who assisted (and did the boards), Shade for being our awesome PA, and of course Sara who produced and shot the whole thing. I love, love, love working in-person with my EHD team.

1. Copper Beverage Tub | 2. Fabric | 3. Pitcher Vase | 4. Pink Napkins | 5. Blue & Gray Plates | 6. Farm Table | 7. String Lights | 8. Wood Bowls | 9. Gold Card Holder | 10. Canning Jars | 11. Votives | 12. Amber Glass Vase | 13. PRESS Hard Seltzer | 14. Colorful Glass Straws | 15. Black Tray | 16. Elevated Serving Board | 17. Tray | 18. Chairs | 19. Bistro Table | 20. Table | 21. Table Runner | 22. 14″ Metal Candle Lantern | 23. 11″ Metal Candle Lantern | 24. Persian Medallion Tassel Area Rug | 25. Red Kilim Pillow Cover | 26. Wood Cheese Board | 27. Blue Contemporary Mirage Rug | 28. Edge Drink Glasses
*Styling by Emily Bowser
**Photography by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
The post How To Throw An Elevated Garden Party with PRESS Premium Seltzer + Sustainable Outdoor Party Styling Tips appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 21, 2021
Reveal Alert: How Albie Designed The Hygge Inspired Luxe Kitchen Of Her Dreams (+ What She Learned Along The Way)

Six months ago I began what I thought would be a “quick and easy” kitchen renovation. The plan was to get in and out in 4 weeks and y’all… I was so naive! I underestimated how long things would take and how quickly things could get derailed. Thankfully, with all the frustrations came valuable lessons, and now my family and I finally get to reap the benefits of our labor.
Before we get into the pretty after pics that we’ve all been waiting for, we have to take a trip down memory lane…


From the first time my realtor saw the kitchen, she knew it had potential. She was right. As soon as I saw the kitchen for myself, I knew immediately what I would do to create a kitchen perfect for our family. Or so I thought.
When I first introduced you to the kitchen makeover a couple months back, I shared my design plan:
Open up the floor plan to create a galley kitchen for better flowCreate custom storage solutions to fit our lifestyle needs & design wantsHonor the home’s existing charm while staying true to our design ethos
Simple enough, right?
This wasn’t intended to be a super extensive renovation, yet just about everything was touched to make this all come together — the walls, lighting, countertops, cabinets…even the flooring (which wasn’t planned) got an upgrade. All of these updates came together to take the kitchen from its more traditional leanings to a design that feels both luxe & cozy.

For the hygge inspired luxe design I envisioned, I knew I wanted to marry bold designs elements with soft, warm touches in a way that would feel intentional. Now don’t get me wrong… I had no plans on sacrificing function for style–both weighed equal in importance to make this renovation work–so while I was swooning over the pretty parts, I was also fine-tuning all the utilitarian details that would make the kitchen actually work. I treated this like I would any project–personal or client–giving myself a design plan, allowing myself to take risks, an d practicing a lot of agility.
During the demo, we had to change all the flooring — unplanned! — which meant an 11th hour run to buy new flooring. Once the demo was complete, we realized one of the walls was off-center, which meant either relocating our roof vent or changing one of our cabinets — one would cost money, the other would cost time… we chose time, and changed the cabinet size. The fabricator’s timeline was pushed back due to their workload, meaning waiting months to get countertops, which led to a complete halt to the renovation. And back-ordered shelves meant having to reselect and reconfigure that design element.
My patience was tested, in addition to my know-how as a designer, homeowner, and content creator… in the worst and best ways. In reselecting, we found some newly released options we loved and in waiting we problem solved for other parts of the reno. Wearing all those hats for this project wore me out — I almost threw in the towel more than a few times! — but I always came back to my why: To finally have the kitchen of my dreams!

For years, I lived with kitchens that did the job but never excited me. Yeah, I explored all kinds of renter-friendly and reversible ways to level em up, but now I could finally get exactly what I want, how I want. I’ll admit that this project tested my resolve in ways I hadn’t anticipated–how bad do I want this, was this a good idea, and what did I get myself into?! On the other side of those questions, however, I knew it would be worth it. With all the logistical challenges–COVID induces delays, coordinating trade schedules, back-ordered product selections–the biggest challenges had less to do with the tangible, and more to do with the personal. It’s one thing to get invested in a client project, it’s something totally different when it’s your own, so for better or for worse, you have to live with it… literally.
I took design risks I never got a chance to take and had to do some wicked unexpected problem-solving. If those choices backfired, it was on me. If those choices paid off big… also on me… and in turn, directly impacting my husband & daughter.
With all this came some severe cases of imposter syndrome and decision fatigue.
Having a nearly two-month delay ended up being a much-needed reprieve, and gave me the creative space to tackle a lower lift project — our bonus bedroom. By the time we picked back up on the renovation, I felt refreshed and ready to cross the finish line.

As I said before, this wasn’t intended to be a full renovation but as the project progressed more renovating happened than I originally thought. Here’s what went down:
We took down the wall that separated the kitchen from the dining roomAdded new appliances to coordinate with the existing onesInstalled new cabinets, including a wall of cabinets, for a new layoutReplaced the dated lighting fixturesUsed cooler paint colors, contracted with a dark backsplashOpted for open shelvings instead of upper cabinets
Wifi Light Switch | Book | Hanging Plant | Rinser | Sink | Faucet | Motorized Shades | Cutting Board & Bowl Set
Every design decision was about choosing solutions that would be best for us, while also finding ways to do so with swag and style. Our new granite composite farmhouse sink workstation paired with the brass finished industrial style faucet, for example, were total upgrades from the previous sink and faucet combo. The old ones were “fine” and would’ve matched the space but they didn’t make my heart sing… so I changed em!

Backsplash | Shelving | Brackets | Blender | Range hood | Range Caddy | Salt & Pepper Grinder Set | Wood utensils | Faux Succulent |Round Cutting Board | Countertop | Cabinets | Pulls | Stove | Refrigerator | Always Pan | Pasta Bowls | Mixer
On the other hand, in choosing to keep the existing marquee appliances — dishwasher, fridge, and stove — I can now enjoy a black-on-black appliance suite that is a sleek and practical upgrade. I replaced their over the stove microwave with a matte black range hood & opted for a built-in microwave oven, separate from the stove. With that, I also treated us to a brand new wine fridge.

Where the previous homeowners had an eat-in area, I saw an opportunity to add more storage and create my very own at-home cafe — the hygge ranch cafe — for early morning cereal, mid-day lattes, and late-night glasses of wine.

The cafe is also a lens in which all the different yet complementary elements come together.
The matte black backsplash serves as a contrasting backdrop to the matte white cabinetry.Flanking the feature wall of vertically stacked subway tiles is an unexpected pop of distressed gold wallpaper.The floating walnut shelves feature a slatted design and sit atop L-shaped brass brackets, unlike the other walls with solid shelves & “strap” brackets.This area of the kitchen is where I really flexed my design muscle because why not?!
As proud as I am of all these design moments, like I said, it came with a lot of decision fatigue. When the overwhelm and fatigue would start to settle in, I’d start to organize! I took my time designing our cabinets so that I could optimize our storage throughout the kitchen… and all that meticulous planning paid off with everything exactly where we’d comfortably need it to be. If you know me, even just a little bit, then you know organizing is like my therapy — it gives me something to do with my anxious energy and keeps me focused on a singular task.


For the renovation, however, it helped me in other ways… it helped us as a family. I took my time designing our cabinets so that I could optimize our storage throughout the kitchen… and all that meticulous planning paid off with everything exactly where we’d comfortably need it to be. Good design isn’t just pretty…it’s functional. I was able to intentionally allocate places for everything so that we could fully enjoy the kitchen.
I designed, I planned, I shopped, I waited, I pivoted, I tiled, I organized, I waited some more, I cleaned, then finally, I styled… and now we’re here!

Backsplash | Shelving | Brackets | Cutting Board & Bowl Set | Footed Tray | Dishwasher
I actually hadn’t realized so much time had lapsed from when this project began until going through my IG archives! This was a project that, at the onset, seemed so simple and like something we could breeze through. In addition to the satisfaction of being able to breathe and simply enjoy my kitchen, all of this work yielded one unexpected side effect: now I actually enjoy cooking and baking all the time!

Stove | Measuring Cups & Spoons Set
I always loved baking but never really did it as much as I liked. Cooking was never my jam. Now… I’m in the kitchen all day, every day… willingly. This showed me that my disdain for kitchen chore work had more to do with the kitchen than it did with the chore itself. You guys… even washing the dishes doesn’t bother me anymore!

*let’s out deep & audible exhale*
I have been waiting for this day for so long — and I know y’all have been too! — and now that you guys can enjoy the kitchen with me, it really is a huge relief. You guys have been along for the entire kitchen rollercoaster over on my Instagram and I feel like after all this, I owe you more than pretty pictures… like I owe you some sage advice or parting words of wisdom, so here goes…
If you are planning a kitchen renovation — really any renovation — no matter how small or simple you think it’ll be, allocate extra time, allow yourself creative respites, don’t be afraid to pivot, and get yourself a reno buddy. I know I wouldn’t have gotten through this alone, so it was fated that Rashida Banks and I would be simultaneously renovating our kitchens at the same time on opposite coasts.
After months of patiently waiting with me, are you ready for some side by sides?



In case you wanna get into all the different elements that went into designing the kitchen — cabinets, countertops, tile work, etc. — I’ve been breaking them down over on my blog. And if you were just here for the pretty pics, here’s one more for the road.

*Design by Albie K. Buabeng
**After Photos by Ellie Lillstrom
The post Reveal Alert: How Albie Designed The Hygge Inspired Luxe Kitchen Of Her Dreams (+ What She Learned Along The Way) appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 20, 2021
Blue & Red IN BED! Is This The Next Bedroom Color Trend? (+ The No-Fail Formula Used To Make It Work In 28 Different Rooms)


A quick and timely anecdote, since the Olympics are kicking off this week – growing up, I was lucky enough to spend time living in the Olympic Training Center (the one in Lake Placid, if anyone else ever stayed there!). It was such a dream and I learned so much every year (about sports, sure, but also just in the general abstract way) but LET ME TELL YOU, there’s one thing I remember more than anything: the bedspreads. I don’t know if I’ll ever forget them – they were blue with a white tile check print mixed with a red, green, and yellow stripe topped with a black chevron print (I’ll post a picture in the comments). I know they were supposed to be spirited and festive and inspirational (Olympic colors and all), but all they really did was put me off of primary colors for 15 years.
So imagine my surprise when I started pinning THE SAME BEDROOM, over and over. Red and blue, ad nauseam. I can’t stop pinning them – the color combination feels simultaneously fresh while being pretty foolproof and classic. But I’m not talking about fire-engine reds and cobalt blues paired with stark whites – you know, the kinds of rooms you see in magazines that scream “AMERICA” and “this is a rarely-used room in the vacation home on the Cape where our family has summered for generations” – I’m talking about bedrooms on the other end of the spectrum. They’re layered, soulful, livable, and cozy with just the right amount of color and personality. Let me show you the two rooms that started this obsession for me…


Are you already seeing a pattern? Beata Heuman and Luke Edward Hall are my two favorite designers – if they’re on board, I am also on board. To steal from an age-old idiom: if they jumped off a bridge, I would ABSOLUTELY jump off the bridge immediately (just probably in a less impressive, less elegant way).
More than anything, I love that this is a formula that we can all take home. Paint a soft blue wall – dealer’s choice on the exact shade! – and then add a candy-striped bed, vintage nightstand, and personality-filled light fixture (the shape of Beata’s is so playful and charming; the shade on Luke’s is illustrated). Finish with simple bright white sheets with a final hit of green for a tailored room that’s soulful, bright, and clean without feeling too overpowering.


And in case y’all thought I was joking about this being a trend, I’d love to present these two rooms to you. Both lean a little harder into the red (check out those quilts!) but the bones are generally the same. I really like that these rooms feel elevated and decorated without feeling too stuffy or precious. Added bonus: check out those tiny curtains on the left (proof that rules are meant to be broken!) and the un-photoshopped outlet on the right. It’s nice to see some actual humanity in a room, right?
But I have a feeling that you’re not necessarily here to look at 20 more photos of striped beds (unless you are???), so I wanted to highlight how folks with a variety of styles interpreted this color palette and how you can make it work in your home, too. Let’s hop in to the tips with some more eye candy…
DesaturateOrlando said it best, so I’m going to pull my all-time favorite nugget of wisdom from his book Get It Together: “Usually when people choose paint colors, they go for a color they love. Normally, that color is bright and vibrant and exciting. I’m telling you right now, YOU DON’T WANT THAT COLOR IN YOUR HOUSE. It seems like a good idea, but it’s going to look like Mickey’s Toontown and you are going to lose your mind in a matter of seconds. The key to creating a home that looks sophisticated enough for an actual grown-up to live in is to select your color, then look for a SUPER DESATURATED version of it. ‘Desaturated’ just means a lot subtler, more gray and neutral tones, less vibrant. I know this sounds boring, but putting full-on bright-ass colors in your house is a surefire way to make you projectile-vomit every time you look at your wall.”


How perfect is that dusty blue and aged-barn red in the kids’ room on the left? As someone who grew up with a chartreuse, hot pink, and orange striped bedroom, I think I’m especially partial to this shot – the wavy cut on the edge of the built-ins add a ton of whimsy and youthfulness and the family won’t have to, you know, use a ton of primer in an attempt to cover up two-decade-old neon paint when the kid grows up. (Not speaking from experience or anything here.) Timeless primary colors, fun shapes, and age-appropriate design that can grow with the family? WIN/WIN/WIN.
The room on the right is similarly sophisticated (except, you know, for adults). Check out the special moulding paint detail on top – I love the way it echoes the bedding! The bright whites really keep this space feeling light and fresh – it’s like walking into a hotel suite at home.


But we can desaturate even MORE, guys. Take a peek at these two spaces, which are rocking a deep slate (I know they look gray, but that room on the left is actual Farrow & Ball’s Light Blue!) alongside a super rusty, almost-orange red. This is an easy way to dip a toe in the color pool – plus, as you get more comfortable, you can start to re-introduce more saturated tones in the same family (like the lamp, coverlet, and pillow arrangement on the left).
So step one to achieving this look at home: desaturate, baby! Break out those muted tones. What’s next, you ask? Well, it’s time to layer on those patterns…
StripesIn case those first four beds weren’t enough, I wanted to highlight two more favorites. Let’s kick it off with the room by Studio Giancarlo Valle, which you’ve actually already seen – this is the bed portion of the room with the sweet built-ins that we talked about earlier.

I *love* when a room is kind of subtle – this is the perfect example of a room that’s a little safari-themed without hitting you over the head with a monkey mural or a rug in the shape of a lion (she said, having recently designed a room with BOTH of those things). Like, sure, this is great for kids now…but don’t you also kind of want to crawl under that canopy, too? These stripes are timeless and in this space, they almost read as a neutral – they’re the perfect way to add movement and interest without overloading your eyes.

OK. I know what you’re saying. “HEY, DUMMY, THAT’S GRAY.” And you’re not necessarily wrong, but look at that blue bed skirt! And those fun paisley curtains! And MAN, get a load of that electric cobalt end table and those fiery red lampshades! (And while you’re at it, look at that circular cutout with the face on the right. And the light fixture! And the use of an overhead light AND sconces AND lamps AND a reading lamp. And that tiny quilted end-of-bed-blanket! There’s so much to discuss here!) In any case, I love this room because it’s filled with similarly-scaled patterns without FEELING too busy or dowdy.
But if stripes aren’t your cup of tea, never fear! There’s another route to explore.
Florals + Global Textiles
SWOON. This isn’t the first time I’ve shared this photo and I doubt it’ll be the last. Admittedly this is a little bit more difficult to achieve for most folks (unless you’re a master craftsman or a contractor owes you a favor) but my, what an impact! It’s incredible what a tiny bit of architecture, some drapery, a whole lot of intention, and a statement lumbar pillow. Minimalist AND maximalist. CHEF’S KISS. (PS. I met Sally right before quarantine and y’all would not BELIEVE how uncool and nerdy I got – I would love her to design my whole life, please.)


And now we jump to full-on maximalist territory. If blue and red are a little too intense for you, you can always temper it with a touch of pink! The home on the left actually belongs to Molly Mahon, who is an awesome textile artist – I love that her home really reflects who she is as a person. It’s a great feeling when someone walks into your place and is like, “ah, yes, I can tell that *YOU* live here.” She’s really taken this trend and put her own stamp on it (pun wasn’t originally intended but wow, I kinda nailed it, huh?)?
And then I am drooling over this luxe, glamorous version on the right. It’s from an NYC pied-a-terre which feels like the perfect place to play with bold patterns and rich textures. The shine of the lacquered chest and lamp alongside the hits of brass really speak to the wallpaper, bounce light around, and warm it up.

Does that fabric on the headboard ring a bell? If you’re a daily reader, it may – you probably spotted it in wallpaper form in this house tour. This is one of the more saturated rooms that we’re peeking at today, but it’s all anchored by that incredible House of Hackney floral print. I also love the decision to go with soft and textured linen sheets instead of a more formal velvet quilt at the foot of the bed – it reduces the formality of the space and makes it a bit more livable. Plus, how sweet are those tiny half-marble nightstands? 100% recommend taking a peek at all of the rooms in this hotel as each has its own custom headboard with different Hackney fabric and they’re all STUNNING.

To no one’s surprise, this may be my favorite room in this post…and I have a feeling that it may end up being yours, too. Sure, the room has blue and red, but it’s a lot less permanent than some of the other spaces I’ve shown you. Do me a favor and cover-up that blue runner beside the bed with your finger for a second – do you see what a huge difference that hit of color makes in the room? It feels really incomplete without it and the runner’s also a great modern balance to that sweet floral headboard. (Also, if anyone else wants to geek out about the blanket/pillows/lamp + lampshade, I’ll be in the comments.)


AHH. Two rooms for our world travelers! On the left, leaning into the blue and red color scheme really lets the Suzani on the bed shine. Plus, the restriction of color really leaves some room to play with styling – how interesting is the tiny art above the bed and that wall-mounted cabinet above the door? On the right, the wallpaper and linen on the headboard were inspired by antique textiles – fully recommend clicking through to House and Garden as you can really zoom in and admire how detailed each piece is. Both rooms are warm and happy and they give a lot of space for their special textiles to breathe and sing. Love, love, love.
Whimsy ShapesOkay. We’ve desaturated and we’ve picked our metaphorical pattern poison. That brings us to the cherry on top…the fun

How can you NOT love a scalloped chair? Y’all, the English are really on to something with this whole tastefully-done red, white, and blue thing. The only other thing I’d like to note here is the choice to bring in a hit of black through the lamp instead of through the framing – each piece in this room is actually framed in a light wood, which keeps the walls looking light and airy.


And I didn’t know I needed a Moroccan-inspired teardrop headboard until now…but WOW. We’ve seen a lot of whimsy shapes here today (see: canopies, wavy-edged built-ins, arches lined with florals, et. al) but playing with proportions and using unexpected shapes can really breathe new life into a classic color scheme. Do you remember that scene in Sex and the City where Charlotte is like, “NO, BUNNY, this is MY HOUSE and I’m going to decorate it” and she proceeds to basically do a modern take on Bunny’s style? That’s how I feel about this – we’re taking something super classic and giving it a little modern update.
Tiny Hits of Red“BUT CAITLIN,” you say. “I WANT TO PARTICIPATE BUT THIS IS A LOT OF COMMITMENT.” I got you, boo!!! Let’s look at some simple ways to start spicing up your bedroom (the unintended puns keep coming, guys!!).


Break out that finger again and cover up the red blanket and the red pillow. WOAH, right? It’s wild how much they add to each room. Before committing to an all red-and-blue scheme, can you just test out a super-bold accent piece in your current room? It may even surprise you. (And again, Luke Edward Hall super fan here and am truly floored that a leopard carpet can be paired with that wallpaper, that lamp, and those pieces of art – INCREDIBLE.)


Ah, the little touches! Take a peek at those red lacquered legs on the table AND bench – what an impactful statement made by such a tiny piece! We spend so much time thinking about the tops of things – you know, how should we style the table? How should we upholster the bench? – that it’s a real treat to see folks putting focus on the bases. Super refreshing, super eye-catching, and pretty DIYable – please let me know if you decide to try this one out at home!
When In Doubt, Add YellowBut wait – THERE’S A SECRET SAUCE. A no-fail addition. It’s come up a few times throughout this post – if you already clocked it, I’m impressed! – but let me show you some of my favorite examples!!!


If you’d ever told me that I’d be THIS into primary colors, I never would have believed you! But this formula is foolproof, y’all. Let’s peek at the room on the left and compare it to the first rooms I showed you. Soft blue wall? Check. Printed and upholstered bed with hits of red? Check. Black end table? Check. Exciting light fixture? Check. The goldenrod throw at the end of the bed is the perfect finishing touch – it ties in the printed shade and sham. LOVE.
And ah, what a breath of fresh air is this space on the right by House of Sui Sui? I’m usually a print loyalist (sign me up for stripes and leopard in every room, thanks) but I love how calm and serene this feels. It’s also fun to see it juxtaposed next to the space on the left – they’re similar but executed in SUCH different ways. I guess there really IS a red and blue room for everyone


There’s something so special about these bold, sunny hits of yellow next to these blues in particular – it’s almost like being outside, right? And the mixing of red and yellow on the left is MASTERFUL – I know that color combination, in particular, can be tough to attempt because of uh, certain brand connotations (hello, golden arches) but MY, it can really shine when balanced out by some vibrant textiles.

Last but not least, I wanted to leave you with this space as it’s such a treat for the eyes AND it encapsulates EVERY. LESSON. FROM. TODAY. Can you believe it? We’ve got a striped bed frame, some gorgeous textiles on the bed, a bright red rug and bold art, a cobalt lamp (with a leopard shade! For me!), and it’s all unified by a grounding swath of yellow drapery. This room has SO much color (basically the whole ROYGBIV spectrum is here!) and so many patterns (6 in this shot, if I’m counting correctly) but it just feels livable and curated and collected thanks to its main color palette of reds and blues.
Which brings us to the end of the post today. The moral of the story? Desaturate your colors! Add a stripe! Add a floral or a textile! If that’s too much, just try a tiny pop of red! And when all else fails, tie it all together with a fun hit of yellow. But now, my question for you: would you try this at home? And maybe more importantly…which one of these would you move into? (I’m calling dibs on Luke’s bedroom with leopard carpet, but I’m also willing to fight for the room with the canopy and for Beata’s room with that floral headboard and that big lamp…)
Opening Image Credits: Design by Luke Edward Hall | Photo by Benoi Linero
The post Blue & Red IN BED! Is This The Next Bedroom Color Trend? (+ The No-Fail Formula Used To Make It Work In 28 Different Rooms) appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 19, 2021
FARM UPDATE: Against Popular Vote We Bought A Vintage Piece Of Furniture For Our Kitchen Island (Also Let’s Talk The Need For The “Prep Sink”)


I’m caught in a three-way love affair with “all things vintage” and “all things practical”. “Form” beat “function” for years pre-children, but these days (and especially since I’ve become a massive homebody) the competition is more like an all-day track meet – lots of races and decisions all day long, yielding different winners per event. Generally speaking, “high-quality old things” just don’t work as well as “high-quality new things” (obviously there are exceptions) not because of their age and craftsmanship (opposite) but because of their often modern lack of conveniences. I write this as I sit on my favorite chairs ever (vintage Cherner) that squeak and creak endlessly (we’ve had them “fixed” and this is the best they can do). It’s all good, but it drives Brian nuts and I try to pretend I don’t notice, but I 100% do.
I wrote about my desire to repurpose a vintage piece as an island here and most of you agreed with me – that for harder working spaces (kitchens/mud rooms) just do what is going to be the most functional and makes your day to day easier, and then layer on the vintage in accessories and bring in vintage furniture in less utilitarian spaces. Feels like a good solution. Great. But I couldn’t shake it. I really, really don’t want this house to look fancy or grand, but it’s basically a new build at this point so I’ve got to inject charm to create the vibe that we want (casual, warm, inviting with a simple farm vibe). So Britney from Aurora Mills sent me a new piece she just got in and I gasped. I shoved the phone in Brian’s face and texted it to Anne immediately we all agreed. This was our island. We all knew we would be sacrificing some practicality, but we all agreed it would be worth it.

We aren’t sure exactly what it was used for, maybe a library or baker’s kitchen. It has simple lines with 6 larger drawers and very little decorative detail (aka not fussy, overly ornate, or too shabby chic). There is nothing TRY HARD about this piece, which was a concern of mine when you repurpose say, an old apothecary piece as a vintage island. This one just feels like a solid, utilitarian, beautifully made piece of furniture that has been loved for a century and cared for carefully. We aren’t sure about the species of wood and it definitely leans a bit red, but not orange and we actually love the tone and are happy its not white oak, matching the floor. We put it next to our flooring sample (I can’t wait to tell you who we are working with on that) and we love the mix of the woods VERY MUCH.

It’s the perfect size (110″ long, 36″ high, and 30″ deep) so with a 15-18″ overhang we can have stools on the backside. We’ll add a stone slab top over the entire thing and hold it up with pretty brackets. The back of it is lovely with simple paneling that you’d see from the living room.
Practically Speaking, It’s… Good, But Not Great
Ok so we have 6 drawers and they are wide and deep – 27″ wide, 27″ deep, and 7″ high. They can definitely house even mixing bowls or small appliances like our ninja. They are well made, but with the expansion of real wood (and no other hardware) some stick when pulling out and shoving in. Versatile can easily fix this, they said. The other 3 drawers that function well are still heavy and not what we are used to these days – drawers on tracks with quiet close. So these will definitely hold the lesser-used items.

I’ve never had a prep sink before and I wasn’t convinced it was necessary till recently. Anne was trying to convince me of the double kitchen sink (one sink, two compartments) because she hates washing vegetables over dirty dishes, so she uses one for food prep and the other for dirty dishes. Literally, that night as I was washing my veggies over my dirty dishes (single basin) I was like, “yes, this is actually disgusting” and then all of a sudden I realized the benefit of the prep sink. At the same time I was excited to have an island with neither a sink or a cooktop – just food prep, homework, hanging, with no splashing on kids’ drawings or hot surfaces. But this island is LONG and we could definitely put a small prep sink on one end (left, near fridge) and still have a long expanse of workspace. Now this means we would lose function of two of those drawers and you’d see the pipes going through the piece into the floor – but those aren’t deal-breakers, just good to know. I’m going to leak a photo from the upcoming book because it demonstrates this really well although they didn’t put a stone on top, just a small slab with a lip over the custom-built piece (not vintage, but super similar).

Brian doesn’t prep veggies nearly as much as I do so he doesn’t totally get it, but with the amount of fruit and veggies we go through and how not on top of the dishes we tend to be, having one sink that is just for food seems like a good idea. Also, I was just at the farm and there are so many groves of trees – plums, pears, apples, cherries, and so many blackberries – and while we’ll have the dog washing station as our utility sink, I think we’ll be busy in the summer washing fresh fruit more than we ever have (I literally had a dream of jam making two nights ago).
I think I’ve just convinced myself, but let’s convince Brian. I would forego a pot filler in a second (but likely will still have one). They are just so pretty but no, not as necessary as you’d think (we use broth for our soups, not water…), but this prep sink is feeling more and more like a good idea and built into this vintage piece sounds so pretty. xx
The post FARM UPDATE: Against Popular Vote We Bought A Vintage Piece Of Furniture For Our Kitchen Island (Also Let’s Talk The Need For The “Prep Sink”) appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 18, 2021
The Link Up: Emily’s All-Time Favorite Toy Storage Item, Jess’ Solution To Never “Lose” Her House Key Again, And The Best News We’ve Heard ALL WEEK


Happy Sunday y’all! It’s the dead middle of summer and hopefully you aren’t melting like we are. However, some INCREDIBLY exciting news happening this past week… Key was named one of “50 AD-Approved Photographers for Your Next Interior Shoot“!!! Information we clearly knew but are SO excited that she is being recognized for her immense talent. GO KEY! With that wonderful news starting us off this fine Sunday, enjoy this week’s Link Up.
This week’s home tour (especially that living room) took minimalism and injected a big dose of unexpected quirk. That sofa is not something we would have imagined for this style of home but man is it so cool! Can you imagine it without it now? It’s still elegant but really takes the excitement of the room up about 10 notches. Check out the rest of this Majorcan dream here.
From Emily: LEGO MASTERS IS BACK which reminded me of one of our favorite toy storage solutions ever. It’s been a while since I properly expressed my gratitude for the inventor of this LEGO bag storage, situation. The top turns into the “blanket” that they play legos on then they simply drawstring it all back into its bin. Our kids are both avid LEGO players and since the third season of LEGO MASTERS has aired, their passion is even greater (we usually have to start the episode pretty early so that they can play for an hour afterward because they get so inspired). If you or anyone you know is constantly stepping on LEGO (note, NOT LEGOS – it’s NEVER plural, which we learned this season) then this is awesome. We have two of them and it makes our lives so much easier. Also, the LEGO documentary is EXCELLENT. It was a total family crowd-pleaser.
From Mallory: I went to NYC this week (traveling?? again??? It’s all very exciting) and I finally crossed Top of the Rock off my bucket list. Because I’m weird about how much I love Christmas, I was very excited about that I got in the gift shop (which is 50% off right now because duh, it’s JULY). So it’s originally supposed to be $20 but now it’s $9. Let me tell you why it’s a super special ornament though…it has an original light from the past Rockefeller Christmas trees!! So sweet. If you’ve ever been to New York or seen that tree, grab this special ornament (I’m all about special memories and cool things on trees). This is IT. Yup, I recommended an ornament in July. Sue me:)
From Albie: If there was ever a collection that screamed “gimme all your money!” It’s for sure this one! I love this fun color combination of this bolster because it’s super transitional. I could totally see this working for spring and summer decor, with the marigold ends, while the terracotta and cream stripes also make it a great option for the fall & winter months too! And who doesn’t love a great pillow! This shape is one that’s missing from my collection of throws so I had to add this beauty to my cart.
Caitlin and Ryann have been a little wallpaper crazy as they’ve been designing their homes (duh wallpaper is amazing) and we thought you might have the wallpaper bug too:) If you do, one of our favorite wallpaper and floor tile companies, Chasing Paper, is having a 20% off sitewide sale next Wednesday and Thursday (7/21-7/22). Happy designing!
From Ryann: My new favorite Instagram account is @whereiwouldliketoread. Anytime I am feeling a little down or uninspired I go to their feed and take in every single image–all of which will transport you to an idyllic fairytale land where I imagine the only responsibilities are to read, eat croissants, and drink prosecco. It is almost as if the curator (@simotto whose account is just as gorgeous) peered into my soul and only chose photos that would move me. If you want to feel like it’s summer vacation all the time, give them a follow.
From Jess: The time has officially come… I need a new daily task notepad. Remember this one I recommended last year? I still love that one but I’ve finished it and I wanted to try something new/get one that would go with the style of my desk. I know that sounds ridiculous but this is a design site so you probably get it. Anyway, the new one I just purchased on Etsy not only has plenty of lines for all of my tasks (sometimes I will literally put “shower” just so I can cross something off… aka I need lots of lines) but it also has a little section to write down 3 things you are grateful for each day. At first, I thought that was a little corny and almost kept scrolling. But then I stopped myself and thought, “Jess, you should absolutely be writing down a few things you are grateful for each day. It’s bound to only add joy to your day and isn’t that a good thing??” It really is. Needless to say, I can’t wait for it to arrive.
Also From Jess: I was going to bore you with a long story about how I lost my single house key but instead, I’m just going to tell you how I will make sure it will NEVER happen again. First, I finally made a handful of spares at Home Depot and then for my morning walks got these super cute little matte wrist coil bracelets (I only use one but they came in a pack). Then with the other sets that I plan on giving to a couple of friends, I got really affordable but very chic brass keychains! I figured that I might as well make them look nice, right? So the next time I accidentally throw away my key, I am VERY prepared.
From Caitlin: Are we all crying over the Jason Sudeikis GQ profile? Just me? Also crying over this NY Times article about a family who searched for their kidnapped son for 24 years and then FOUND HIM. (My waterworks started at this line: “Mr. Guo also cleaned out his home, tossing out old belongings to commemorate a new beginning.”)
That’s it for this week. Enjoy the rest of what is hopefully a beautiful day and see you tomorrow!
Opening Image Credits: Design by Paradowski Studio | Photo by Pion Studio | via Yellowtrace
The post The Link Up: Emily’s All-Time Favorite Toy Storage Item, Jess’ Solution To Never “Lose” Her House Key Again, And The Best News We’ve Heard ALL WEEK appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 17, 2021
The EHD Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks – The HIGHLY Researched Best Deals + Our Honest Reviews


You know how Leslie Knope’s brain is a steel trap of friendship nuggets? My brain is a steel trap for prices and sales. Maybe it’s the 2 years at EHD, or the time spent curating our roundups, or the thousands of emails we get every week with sale info – or maybe it’s a mix of all three! – but y’all, someone should book me for The Price is Right. (I’ll share my winnings, I promise.)
All of this is to say that the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has started and I wanted to take a second to highlight the GOOD GOOD deals (along with some pro tips on the things we’ve tried – you know, like “size up” or “try it on in person”). This isn’t sponsored at all – I just went through every page (yes, all 90 something of them) and clocked the SLAMMING DEALS. If you’re in the market for, say, a new coat or an insanely-priced Dyson vacuum or a blowdryer or some adorable baby clothes, you’re in the right spot – these are the things we know, love, and can vouch for. Let’s get cooking, yeah?
For Summer
1. Collar Blouse ($22 Savings): AHHH. Love, love, love. This top is polished and modern but with a little whimsy and personality – it’s perfect for those of us who work in more relaxed, creative offices. (…annnnd I just bought it in leopard print. These posts are dangerous to write.)
2. Levi’s Jean Jacket ($33 Savings): This piece starts out looking casual and weathered and only gets better with age as it starts to mold to your shape. Could you ask for anything more?
3. Yellow A-Line Dress ($52 Savings): Have you also recently been re-invited to about a hundred rescheduled weddings? Yeah? Here’s your outfit.
4. Square Neck Mini Dress ($55 Savings): Oh hey, LBD. Nice to see you again!! This Club Monaco dress has a sweet, tailored construction, EHD-approved puff sleeves, and it’s a great choice if your former LBD no longer fits (uhh, guilty as charged).
5. Fit & Flare Dress ($58 Savings): Church? Office? Parent/Teacher Conference? Claire Underwood Halloween Costume? The possibilities are endless for this tailored, classy dress that you’ll pull out again and again.
6. Bike Shorts ($18 Savings): These are the shorts I wear to the flea market! Comfortable, high-waisted, AND they don’t roll up/down. 10/10, highly recommend.
7. Madewell Tee ($15 Savings): Sheer, cropped, graphic, and manufactured in a Jess Bunge-approved color palette. Size up and layer with a shearling jacket to channel your inner Penny Lane
8. Levi 501 Jeans ($33 Savings): These are one of Em’s favorites for a reason – they’re high-waisted, slightly cropped, and there’s a little bit of breathing room around the leg. If you’re in the market for some new jeans, the price:quality ratio on these cannot be beat.
9. Embroidered Prairie Dress ($24 Savings): We love how tone-on-tone embroidery can punch up a breezy, simple dress.
For Fall
1. Fleece Pullover ($40 Savings): Fun fact – a similar pullover was your #1 most-purchased item from last year’s Anniversary Sale! This one’s crazy-high quality and on SUPER sale. (P.S. Not to get too Elle Woods on ya, but the textured piping gives it a little something extra, don’t you think?)
2. High Waist 7/8 Leggings ($33 Savings): Sweaty Betty leggings for $55?!? If you’re not familiar with this brand, this is an awesome place to jump in – their waistbands are really supportive and they keep everything locked in place. Plus, the shine makes them cute for day wear, too
3. Madewell Bobble Cardigan ($39 Savings): Madewell brings this cardigan back year-after-year for good reason – it’s charming, happy, and versatile. Straight sizes are sold out, but 1X-3X pals, you’re in luck – there are 4 gorgeous colors available!!
4. Faux Leather Puffer ($60 Savings): We love a puffer here at EHD, and this one is no exception!! It’s a timeless shape that’s been made a little more fun and playful with its tall houndstooth collar and faux-leather finish.
5. Plaid Shirtdress ($25 Savings): What an awesome base layer, guys!! This is what fall dreams are made of – wear it with a denim jacket and cute flats! Grab a sweater, tie it around your waist, and pair it with some cute boots! It comes in black, too.
6. Levi’s Fleece Jacket ($70 Savings): Cozy, oversized, timeless, AND on super sale? SIGN ME UP. This is a slam dunk for those who get to experience fall – can you imagine apple picking, or pumpkin picking, or going on a hayride while donning this? (Bonus: you’ll be able to pay the admission fee to the fall activity of your choice with the $70 bucks you’re saving. *LA jealousy intensifies*)
7. Plaid Shawl Collar Coat ($179 Savings): When I tell you my jaw DROPPED when I saw this…man. What else is there to say? BIG HEART EYES.
8. Madewell Perfect Vintage Jean ($58 Savings): Oh my, Jess sold me on this cut! She and I had long been wary of the seemingly-straight-legged jean (since we both have hips, which often make the fit a little weird) but she grabbed this one day on a try-on whim and BOY, THEY WERE GREAT. She stopped by my apartment wearing these on her way to brunch a month or two ago and I was like “WOAH, HEY COOL GIRL!!” because they looked so slouchy and vintage while still coming off as super put-together and considered, so yeah…these jeans are great.
9. Colorblock Top ($15 Savings): This is the type of top that y’all slide into Em’s DMs about – it’s an elevated basic (those bell sleeves!) in a classic colorway, which makes it great for those “I woke up like this” days where you want to throw on a crewneck and feel put together.
For Home
1. Dyson Cordless Vacuum ($120 Savings): If you’re in need of a new vacuum, RUN RUN RUN to scoop this one! I link this Dyson in almost every major holiday sale roundup, but this price is UNREAL – it’s better than what we usually see on Black Friday or Cyber Monday!
2. 4 Flour Sack Kitchen Towels ($8 Savings): I own these and they’re a dream – large, neat, easy to clean, and timeless. Food52 has a whopping ~2 sales a year, so grabbing these from Nordies at a lower price is great.
3. Self Watering Indoor Garden ($40 Savings): These are never on sale, but they’re AWESOME – I know it just looks like a planter box, but there are actually 9 separate seed areas to keep your plant/herb/veggie pals healthy and happy. (And here is the tinier, $80 version for those with less counter space.)
4. Amalfi Coast Print ($7 Savings): I actually pinned a ton of prints for this post and then forced Mallory to narrow it down when she made the roundup graphic for me. TEAMWORK. Really impressed by Nordstrom’s art offering – if oranges aren’t your thing, I’m sure you’ll be able to find an affordable print that is your thing.
5. Viking Carbon Steel Pans ($50 Savings): These two pans are super lightweight and naturally nonstick (so no Teflon or chemicals) with extra-long, semi-curved handles which make them really comfortable to use.
6. Turkish Towel ($14 Savings): Someone invite me to a beach or a picnic STAT, please. The color, pattern, and tassels here make for a very, very cute take-anywhere towel.
7. Bathmat ($14 Savings): OK, we see you, in-house Nordstrom textile brand! Nordies has been quietly launching their own sheets, towels, blankets, pillows, etc. but their bathmats are where they’ve really knocked it out of the park. Plush, dimensional, and chic.
8. 5 Boy Smells Candles ($24 Savings): I’ve linked up the woody-scented ones (because they’re so good for fall – if you’re not familiar with Boy Smells, they’re also great samples!) but the floral collection is also so, so, so good. Each of these has about 19 hours of burn time, too, so they’re really packing a punch for their tiny size.
9. Laundry Essentials + Dryer Ball Kit ($30 Savings): TBH this one is still pretty spendy (catch me in the laundromat using whatever they have in the vending machine) but if you want to give your clothes/textiles a bougie little washing experience, this is a comparatively well-priced starter kit.
For Beauty
1. Shimmering Body Oil ($18 Savings): I love a shimmering body oil and I’m tired of pretending I don’t!!! This stuff makes me, a pasty white lady, feel like J. Lo when she wore that infamous green dress to the Grammys.
2. Resurfacing Mask Set ($48 Savings): I learned about this product from Cup of Jo (who described it as a “facial in a jar”), I’ve recommended it here before (because I agree), and you can bet that I’m grabbing this set. The resurfacing mask alone usually runs for $65, so getting that *and* 3 other tiny products for $78 is a dream come true.
3. Day & Night Cream Set ($25 Savings): Fresh is usually a little out of my price range for daily-use products (this moisturizer usually costs $50 a la carte), but this is an awesome bundle. If Fresh is your preferred brand, this is a GREAT time to stock up.
4. Petite Facial Kit ($139 Savings): About a month ago, I asked y’all if the NuFace was a worthy investment and the answers were overwhelmingly positive. Now I’m glad I waited to pull the trigger because this bundle, including a bonus line-smoothing device and two serums, is a great deal. *adds to cart*
5. Round Blow-Dryer Brush Set ($64 Savings): Yeah, the round blow-drying brushes are absolutely worth the hype. (I used my mom’s recently and was BLOWN AWAY by the results on my normally-puffy hair. Pun intended.) This one, packaged with super effective Drybar hair-glossing products, is a steal.
6. Pore Cleansing Mask ($13 Savings): This mask is great if your face feels a little gunky – it dives in and pulls out all the buildup from sweat, sebum, sunscreen, makeup, etc. My skin’s pretty dry so I need to follow with a good moisturizer, but this is AWESOME if you feel like you need a little reset.
7. Le Labo Set ($20 Savings): If you spend a lot of time hearing people talk about Le Labo scents (I do) and have no idea what they’re talking about (still true), this may be a great way to dip your toe in the waters. Alternatively, if you’re already a fan of Le Labo, this is a nice way to grab 3 travel-sized perfumes!
8. Anti-Aging Hair Set ($42 Savings): I am vehemently against anti-aging branding…but I’ll give it a pass when it comes to hair, I guess. Plus Jess has used these and LOVED them. This set leaves your hair feeling salon-level clean, fresh, moisturized, shiny…you get it. Highly recommended – I use Moroccan Oil shampoo from Walgreens for daily use, but this is a nice treat for self-care days!
9. Supergoop Set ($19 Savings): Greetings from me, your resident sunscreen nut and Supergoop loyalist. I’m usually a diehard for Glowscreen and Glow Oil, but this set including their sunscreen moisturizer and two bottles of everyday lotion is perfect for daily use or for those experimenting with the brand for the first time. I know they’re pricy for sunscreen, but I actually use their products every day (and my skin thanks me for it!!), which makes them a super worthwhile investment IMO

1. Clare V Backpack ($160 Savings): ONE. HUNDRED. AND. SIXTY. DOLLARS. OFF! Em introduced the brand to the EHD team and we’re all converts – all of her pieces are incredibly functional (like, the top handle of this backpack can actually be used as a handle), impeccably constructed, and super classic.
2. Layered Necklaces ($42 Savings): Take the stress out of mixing and matching with this pre-layered set with ideal proportions. If the colors are a little much, there’s an olive/earth-toned version that’s so, so pretty, too.
3. Clare V Crossbody ($156 Savings): I LOVE a leopard print (wait til y’all finally see my house!) but it can be tricky to do right. This print is elevated, tasteful, and it looks high quality (mainly because it is, HA). If you’re looking for a bag that can work anywhere but still has some personality, this is what I’d recommend for you.
4. Hammered Disc Necklace ($22 Savings): Fun fact #2 – a Gorjana necklace was your #2 favorite pick from last year’s anniversary sale! We love how light and delicate their pieces are (and you should check out the rest of their necklaces here)
5. Chain Link Earrings ($16 Savings): Who says you can’t mix metals? Clean, simple, and a little edgy – these are the perfect finishing touch.
6. Kate Spade Necklace ($19 Savings): Dainty, sophisticated, and the ideal gift choice for someone sentimental like Em.
7. Mini Hoop Earrings ($15 Savings): In full transparency, I do not have my ears pierced, buuuut have been told by multiple members of the team that these hoops seem WAY more expensive in person than their $30 price tag would indicate.
8. Canteen Crossbody ($150 Savings): I CANNOT GET OVER THIS SHAPE – it looks SO GOOD on the mannequin as it’s the perfect mix of whimsy and structure. If Cinderella was real, this would be her bag. (It also comes in mustard and black, but this periwinkle is gorgeous.)
9. Ray-ban Wayfarer Sunglasses ($61 Savings): Everyone looks good in Ray-bans. ALWAYS. I’d recommend trying some on in person, if you can, so you can figure out which style works best for you (I’m a Clubmaster gal!) before taking advantage of these deals.
For Shoes
1. Shearling Lace Up Bootie ($99 Savings): These are the deals we came here for, folks! This boot is the perfect mix of practicality and style – we love it in saddle suede but if you’re in a climate with more precipitation, there’s an all-leather version that’ll stand up to the elements this fall and winter.
2. Suede Mule ($30 Savings): I mean…y’all know how EHD feels about a mule. And as a bonus, a portion of net sales from this product go towards organizations that empower youth.
3. Platform Chelsea Boot ($80 Savings): Update your average Chelsea boot with a solid, blocky heel and a fun platform. They come in a few colors (including a mahogany crocodile print) but the all-black version is the most practical, versatile choice.
4. Slide Sandal ($20 Savings): This camel leather makes for an awesome neutral, but it also comes in black, cream, and a really sweet Tiffany blue with daisy print flowers.
5. Slide Sandal ($128 Savings): DANG, OKAY. Mallory found these and I fell in love almost immediately with the blush version. They’re a wearable statement shoe – business in the front, party in the back. (I recommend clicking through to zoom in on the glossy heel and the organic, biomorphic shapes – it’s really, really beautiful.)
6. Genuine Shearling Slipper ($30 Savings): Solid, keep-forever slippers – since they’re usually $100 bucks, these are selling out quick. 5 colors are still available, so grab if you can! (I’m partial to the pink and lilac.)
7. Platform Converse ($20 Savings): Chucks, but make them a little more special. Love them in this pure white – a nice alternative to Stan Smiths if you’re trying to bring some spice to your outfit.
8. Combat Boot ($70 Savings): You survived the past 18 months. You are now officially the type of person who CAN pull off combat boots. Kick some ass and take some names, pal.
9. Platform Sandal ($60 Savings): Can you tell that we’re very into platforms right now? These sandals in particular remind me a ton of a pair that Em’s been wearing this summer. They’re great to add a little height without sacrificing practicality and function, which we love

1. Corduroy Jacket Set ($22 Savings): This is SO CUTE… and it averages out to about $13 per piece, which feels like a steal for how well-constructed this set is. Size up a bit now and you’ll have your kiddo’s Thanksgiving look ready to roll in November!
2. Cotton Shirt Dress ($14 Savings): Uh…can someone make this for adults, please? I’m obsessed with this happy print, but the dress also comes in the best mossy green shade. It’s available from Toddler to Big Girl sizes, too.
3. Quilted Romper ($22 Savings): GAH. It also comes in pink. This romper singlehandedly set off my biological clock.
4. Adjustable Overalls ($9 Savings): A sweet little romper that grows with your baby? CUTE. It looks super high-end – who knew “newborn chic” was a thing? – and it comes in black, in case you’re going for a more minimalist or monochrome look.
5. Faux Fur Shirt & Leggings ($19 Savings): Soft AND shiny? Is this not the most tender little outfit you’ve ever seen in your life???
6. Raincoat Set ($22 Savings): BRB buying & mailing this to my friend’s baby because it’s too tender. Who gives these designers the right to make such sweet tiny outfits???
7. Faux Fur Jacket & Dress Set ($21 Savings): This soft, cozy jacket and full rainbow skirt are the perfect mix of comfy and charming. (Plus, if your kid is anything like Birdie, they’ll love the tutu style :))
8. Dinosaur Rain Boots ($15 Savings): The ideal choice for splishing AND splashing. They also come in this very cute mermaid style (with fins on the back!) so you can grab the pair that’ll speak most to your kiddo.
9. Kitty Jacket Set ($22 Savings): OH GOSH. The little ears on and tiny skirted waist on this coat!!! Someone, please let me take your baby/toddler shopping ASAP. I will buy them the cutest wardrobe.
AH, you made it! Here’s the other thing: the sale is only open to cardmembers right now, but you’ll be able to make your full wishlist in the interim so you’ll be ready to go when it opens up on July 28th to the masses. (Also, this isn’t financial advice, but the only 2 store-brand cards I have are from Target and Nordstrom – they’re the only 2 retailers that I’d trust, so if you’re on the fence about early access or getting a card, it does have my stamp of approval.) Things do sell out pretty quickly once the sale does open up to everyone so I would super recommend adding favorites to your wishlist so you don’t miss any great savings on things you need!
And one final word of EHD wisdom – please don’t just buy things to buy things! We pulled this roundup together today to highlight the products that we love in the hopes that it’ll help you make a decision, but don’t go all willy-nilly on your credit cards. Shopping is fun but financial stability may be even MORE fun, ya know??? In any case, let me (and us!) know if you’ve spotted any other great deals worth sharing – I’d love to hear some recommendations from you
Happy Saturday and have the BEST WEEKEND – see ya in the comments!!
Opening Image Credits: Photo by Veronica Crawford | From: A Fashion Review: New Clothing on My Body and How I Like Them (Or Not)
The post The EHD Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks – The HIGHLY Researched Best Deals + Our Honest Reviews appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 16, 2021
Just A Couple Of EHD Gals Back At The Rose Bowl (A Real Flea Market Diary With Some Very Helpful Tips)


It’s time for some good old-fashioned blogging, folks! Jess and I went to our first flea market in over a year on Sunday and I’m still riding the dopamine high. We were about 10 steps into the Rose Bowl before I was like, “Hey, can I turn this into a blog post?” and HERE WE ARE – I want to show you our hits, misses, and maybe even sprinkle some pro tips in there in case you’re a little rusty at in-person negotiation (I was).
The day was an absolute WINNER for me (less so for Jess, who shall hereby be known as “the girl with expensive taste” – everything she asked about had a huge price tag!) so let’s get to cooking, yeah? I’m going to start out with some quick refreshers on what to wear to the flea market, what to bring, etc. but if you’re a total pro, please just jump down so you can see what caught our eye! LET’S GO


Ah, yes, my most frequently asked question. The Rose Bowl is WILD because there’s a huge fashion area and it’s very easy to differentiate the folks who are there for clothing (they’re clean, fully styled, and they all look ready for a Sartorialist street style photoshoot) and the folks there for furniture and home goods (comfort is king). Here’s my go-to dressing checklist…
A Baseball Hat: The sun WILL be in your eyes. Always. I don’t care what time you go. (PS. If you’re like “hey, hats don’t look good on me” – first of all, you’re wrong and being too critical because I’m sure you look amazing, but second of all, try a middle part *just* when you’re wearing hats. Total game changer.) A Windbreaker or Button Up with Multiple Pockets: If it doesn’t have 2 outside and 2 inside pockets, I don’t want it. I stash different monetary amounts in each pocket (e.g. $20 in one, $200 in another, $60 in a third, $40 in the fourth) so I don’t look like an asshole when I’m bartering. Do not end up being the person who negotiates for a lower price before whipping out a huge wad of cash!!! Plus, layers are important because they’re like, warm and lightweight and stuff…but mainly, the money thing. A Top You Don’t Mind Getting Dirty: OH MY, I WISH I HAD A PIC OF JESS AND I – we were DISGUSTING after hauling 4 rusty chairs back to her car at the end of the day. White tops are great because they keep you cool but MY GOSH AT WHAT COST??? Leggings or Shorts: I mean, this is just my preference, but I’m way more comfortable walking around, bending down, and hauling things around when I’m appropriately dressed (because let’s be clear: this IS a workout). I also swear by Thigh Rescue when I’m wearing shorts (we walked ~8 miles over the day and it kept me SO COMFY).Actual Sneakers: We’re talking athletic sneakers, guys. Jess wore more traditional ~stylish~ tennis shoes (you know, the super flat and cute kind) and halfway through our first hauling trip to the car, she was like “ahhh, my dogs are BARKING.” That’s a direct quote and we had to do THREE MORE TRIPS back and forth, in and out of the flea, to get everything loaded up. Treat yourself to feet that don’t ache by the end of the day!
I mean, like, OTHER than cash (and the exact change for your entry ticket).
A Tote or Ikea Bag: I know that most women have a supernatural ability to carry a million things in their hands, but don’t do that to yourself. Bring something to put your spoils in. A Cart: I am wildly loyal to this one from Food52 (it does triple duty as my laundry bag/grocery cart/recycling can and the special wheels mean I can bring it up the stairs easily!) but most folks just go with wire-framed ones that you can grab for $20-$40, like this. Wagons are also a good call if you’re getting bigger pieces.Measuring Tape: You know, to measure. Jess loves this one because the fractions are printed on it!!Water: You’re gonna need it.(Optional) A Dolly: If your car has room to store a dolly, BRING IT. Vendors will often let you borrow their carts (shoutout to Cynthia from Old Green Garage for letting me use hers to get my purchase back to Jess’ car!) but it’s nice to just have one in your car.(Optional) A Generous Friend With a Big Car: I won the lotto on this one

FREAKING EARLY. Anyone who arrives to a flea market at like, 9 or 10 AM deserves to win a medal cause y’all are WILD. I normally go at doors (~5-6 AM), while vendors are still driving in and unpacking because I’m an indoor cat who cannot be outside in the heat for extended periods of time. It’s nice to feel like you’re done for the day and that you’ve seen everything before the masses show up and before the blacktop turns you into a melted pile of goo (I’m usually done by 9/9:30).
Folks tell you to get that the best deals are at the end of the day, but TBH standing in a hot parking lot at 4 PM sounds like my nightmare so I can neither confirm nor deny this. Chime in if you’re an EOD loyalist!!!


Without further ado…LET’S GET TO THE GOOD STUFF.



We both fell in love with those special plywood chairs. I sat in one and was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable it was…and then I learned that the pair was $1900 bucks and I was OUTTA THERE.
Next up: THE SCORE OF THE DAY. Jess spotted these saddle leather and iron chairs really early in our trek (for those familiar with the Rose Bowl, we started closest to the road and made our way to the stadium; these chairs were in section V) and we both started hyperventilating as they’re the perfect fit for both of our homes. Rog, the vendor at V05 (she is the best AND she’s there every month, go visit in August!!) quoted us $350 for all four and WE BOUGHT THEM SO FAST – Jess took two and I took two. They’re are in the style of Ilana Goor and if you’d like to match us, this similar vintage set is $880 for two (all-in, we paid $175/each). WHAT A DEAL, RIGHT? (PS. Wildly, this is the SECOND TIME THIS MONTH that we have split a set of 4 chairs. Who needs a friendship bracelet when you can have friendship furniture?)
And lastly, I’m just so partial to iron campaign-style furniture. We saw a few of these chairs scattered around and I always think they’re so beautiful.


These brass giraffes were a steal (usually they’re on Chairish for $3-5k, these were $400 for the small and $600 for the large) but alas, I could not justify spending $600 on a brass giraffe. C’EST LA VIE.
But these mirrors – I did end up bringing these home. I loved the scale (they’re huge – another pic at the end of the post), the mixed materials, and the horses. Originally I was like “oh, yeah, I’ll see if they’re available when I come back” but once Cynthia, the vendor in N09 (just dropping all my favorite spots here, NBD) was like “you can just venmo me,” I was sold. They make me SO HAPPY and I can’t wait to get them shot in my MOTO (Makeover Takeover)!



This turtle lamp was the first thing I saw – his expression was so sweet and the wicker lampshade is awesome. It was $25 bucks and I said that I’d consider it…and then it was still there on my second trip around, so I grabbed him for $20. He’s very cute
I loved the twisted base of this vintage lamp in the middle – the construction was STUNNING. I’m trying not to get too ~grandmillennial~ in my home so it was a pass, but BOY, it was pretty.
And then we saw not one but TWO popsicle lamps! I took pics of them for Em, since she’s the proud owner of a popsicle lamp of her own. These have such a cool texture and I’d love to see one bringing some soul to a super-modern space.


I’ve been on the hunt for some vintage wall-mounted candleholders (or sconces that I can turn IN to candle holders) and these were so beautiful. I forget how much they were – maybe $40? – and now I kind of regret not bringing them home.
Also loved the shape and color of this vessel. Classic EHD, right? It would work in so many styling scenarios.



This is when I kind of started going off the grandmillenial rails (again, an aesthetic I’m trying to nod towards, vs. an aesthetic that I’m trying to cover my whole home in) and I had to reign myself back in. I’ll always be a sucker, though, for a crystal vessel/dish/bowl/plate – I still have some from my grandma and they’re my favorite.
I also loved the construction of this little container (it was beautiful in person!!!) and it was on a table filled with similarly gorgeous objects, so I’m hoping they’ll be back next month.
And I *WISH* I had a space for this tiny malachite ball lamp. She was SHORT and the proportions were so sweet – if I was a stylist and had infinite hoarding space, this 100% would have come home with me for future bookshelf-decorating purposes.


How cool were these candelabras? Such fun construction, right? The lamp was so playful, too – it kind of reminded me of the Pixar lamp I love when pieces have some humor and personality and this one DEFINITELY did. Again, another piece I wish I could have hoarded if given infinite resources.


Jess was eyeing this black table for her balcony MOTO (we’re both still trucking ahead, although at this point, it seems that neither of us will win the race by 7/20, ha) and the price was so good – about $30 – but she decided against it because we thought the scrollwork may clash with the chairs she’s planning to use out there.
And this little table was SO GOOD – I wish you could see more detail on the top, because the veining on the stone (or resin maybe?) was really, really, beautiful. It was such a nice mix of high-end materials and a sweet, modern shape. Jess was noodling on it but ultimately decided to skip because she “didn’t have a place for it yet” and “wasn’t sure where it would go” TBH I think we should all bully her for leaving such a cute piece behind.


These were the two art pieces that stuck out to me – a huge print featuring a reclining women (DM me for photography inquiries, I know that I’m a professional) and this truly WEIRD illustration of a fish writing Moby Dick. At the time I was like “LOL that’s so weird” and now I’m SO SAD I DIDN’T BUY IT. Have thought about it every day since Sunday. Let this be a lesson to buy things that literally spark joy even if they’re a little (or a lot) out there.


Jess’ art taste was a little more refined. We both fell in love with the piece on the left, but the price tag was a little high (I think it was $350). The colors were so lovely and the design was so great, though. I’m blanking on the dealer’s name/spot (he’s in the same place every month and I’ve purchased work from him before) but his curation is SO GREAT. Will update y’all next time Jess inquired about that light switch art, too, but ended up deciding against it because it was also $350. The lines were awesome and the framing was in great condition, but it just wasn’t meant to be on this trip. Maybe next time?

I had THE BEST DAY, guys. You can see how big those mirrors are in the back – they’re almost 3′ wide by 4′ high – and I also have my two chairs from Jess and I’s split and the turtle lamp from earlier!
My other finds: this AWESOME $20 lampshade – I actually grabbed it while the vendor was still unloading (the perks of being early!) and it technically had a lamp-mate, but they were more than happy to separate them for me. I also grabbed this $40 brass bin (down from $50!) which I’m currently using to corral my mail recycling at the front door, but I could see it working high-end garbage can, shoe bin, etc. I really, really love it. And last but not least: those weird little stone eggs with stands! I spotted the blue one from like 100 feet away – truly, it was like a bird of prey honing in on a meal – and then ended up falling in love with its mate, the brown one with the gorgeous base. All I know is that they’re from Germany and they’re making my bookshelf SO PRETTY now


Onwards to Jess’ purchases, yeah? First off – I may or may not have coerced her to buy this vintage OG bullet planter. The fiberglass has seen better days but the lines are SO GREAT – especially with Jess’ style – and it was about 1/10th the price it should have been, so it was an awesome score at only $26. The painting was an early find, too, and the composition/texture/framing/color/EVERYTHING is so, so, so great. Jess is such a master of mixing vintage pieces like this alongside work with super modern, graphic lines and I can’t wait to see where this ends up!


After our first trip back to the car to drop off our early spoils (and to pull down the seats so we could load in the mirrors and chairs), we re-entered the flea and walked STRAIGHT into these – they’re super oversized wall-mounted hooks and they’re GREAT. They were on the ground and I didn’t even see them, but Jess spotted them right away. And, I mean, y’all have seen her last place – could there have been a more perfect find? They were affordable at $30 for the pair and the possibilities are endless – gonna be SO GREAT once they’re up on a wall.

Last but not least, this was my absolute favorite purchase of the weekend (and I think it may end up being yours, too). Jess spotted this and was like “what is this” and I said “candleholder” because I saw the hole in the middle, but then the vendor was like “hey give me $20 and you can have the candle holder AND a set of candles.” Jess ended up heading through his set-up and back to his van (truly, fleas are the only place where I’m like “YES GIRL, go crawl around in a stranger’s vehicle!”) and she emerged with THESE TINY CANDLES. Have you ever seen anything like this?! I haven’t. Like, WHAT A FREAKING SCORE. Let this be a lesson to really peek at the smalls (because I’m tellin ya, you KNOW this would have sold for WAY MORE had it been styled like this).
To close it out with some bonus friend content: after the flea, Jess and I drove to brunch at Millie’s in Pasadena where we consumed SO MUCH water/juice/coffee/iced tea/diet coke (yes, ALL of those) before we headed back to her place so I could help bring her chairs up. I ended up doing my back stretches and laying on her floor for a while (because #friendship) and then Jess got back in her car, left her house, drove me back to MY house, and helped me carry all those things upstairs. Before I worked here, I remember reading the blog and being like “there’s no way all these people can be coworkers and still be this close” but ALAS, IT’S TRUE. Can’t believe I have a job where I (a.) landed a really great friend and (b.) am now allowed to write 12 double-spaced pages about my trip to the flea market. Feeling lucky to be able to go outside, lucky for work, lucky for pals, and lucky that you’re here, too HAPPY FRIDAY, FRIENDS.
The post Just A Couple Of EHD Gals Back At The Rose Bowl (A Real Flea Market Diary With Some Very Helpful Tips) appeared first on Emily Henderson.
July 15, 2021
How To Make “A Cook’s” Kitchen – It’s Not Just About The Appliances


From Em: Today we have a kitchen reveal of a friend, collaborator and fellow blogger, Barrett Prendergast. We were hanging out a couple of years ago chatting about how we could collaborate on her kitchen and while I had NOTHING to do with the design of this (she did it all and did an awesome job) I agreed to produce/publish the reveal when it was all done – win/win. So a couple of weeks ago Bowser and Sara went over and shot Barrett’s awesome kitchen (you must read until the end and see the befores) that works wildly better for her and her soon-to-be three sons + husband. More on her below. Follow her and hot tip – she also runs Valleybrink Road where we buy our gift boxes throughout the year for friends/family/clients – they are wonderful.
Hi everyone. Barrett Prendergast here. I’m the founder of gifting company Valleybrink Road and lifestyle blog Barrett and The Boys. I’m so excited to be sharing the story of our kitchen renovation with you! To be honest, my husband and business partner, André Vippolis, managed the entire project, dealing with all of the nitty-gritty details, and is still recovering from the stress of it all. It was a WILD ride, and we learned SOOO much. Before we jump into all the design details and obstacles we encountered as construction newbies, let me give a little background.
André and I bought a small Spanish bungalow in an area of Los Angeles called Atwater Village ten years ago. Initially built in the 1920s, the house was a flip. It had been tastefully redone with a combination of Ikea and Home Depot products and finishes. After losing out on so many places and looking for what seemed like forever, we were so grateful to get a home with great bones. We fell in love with the breezy feel and open kitchen vibe. The kitchen was simple, with white cabinetry, a farmhouse sink, grey countertops, and an island in the center. The kitchen had some strange design choices, including a desk nook and a stackable washer/dryer smack in the middle of one of the walls. Still, there was tons of potential for a future redux.

Over the years of living in and using the space, we started to dream of all the things we would change. Wouldn’t it be amazing if we had an actual range with a vent? Can you imagine what we could do with six burners and a large oven? For two people obsessed with food, cooking, and entertaining, the kitchen’s 24″ cooktop was a challenge. You could never cook two things at a time, as the burners were so close together and the pots didn’t fit side by side or diagonally. We were also desperate for more storage. And, as we had one child and then another, it started becoming harder and harder to find a place to store anything. We thought, wouldn’t it be nice to trim down the poorly designed island so we could have more flow and movement while cooking and hosting. And on and on.
So, a year ago, we decided to finally take the plunge and create the kitchen of our cooking dreams. But on a budget. Our goal was a bright, spacious, functional cook’s kitchen that was kid-friendly and great for entertaining. The most important things to us were:
1) High-quality appliances
2) Increased storage and a large pantry
3) An island where our kids and friends could gather comfortably as well as be utilized for prepping and cooking.
4) A home espresso machine setup
5) Increase the natural light in the space
6) A big sink and quality faucets
We had a relatively clear vision of what we wanted the space to look like (constantly pinning away). To save money, we had an architect’s assistant prepare drawings for us based on our mood board and the goals mentioned above. We were also able to partner with many incredible brands that helped bring the kitchen to life on a budget. And, while it took much longer than expected, we made it through and are in love with our new kitchen! Here’s how it all came together.


Sconce | Tea Kettle | Blue Dipped Ceramic Bowl (similar) | Vinegar Dispenser (similar)
Appliances: As we mentioned above, we had been dreaming of having appliances that were more conducive to cooking. We decided to go with Thermador as their appliances are solid performers with a good reputation among cooks. They have a great ultra-low simmer feature and the ability to have more burners with high BTUs on their ranges. The design of their Pro Harmony line is clean and modern without looking too high-tech. We were also able to get a free dishwasher and rangehood with the promotion they had running at the time we made our range and refrigerator purchase.

Refrigerator | Wood Veneers | Custom Cabinets


Appliance Pulls (in satin brass) | Cabinet Pulls ( in stain brass)
Storage: With our goal of increased storage in mind, we decided to dedicate one entire wall in the kitchen to the pantry, fridge, and extra shelving for cookware, ceramics, dinnerware, serving pieces, etc. Initially, our laundry was along this wall in the kitchen, along with a random desk area we never used, leaving very little room for the pantry or any other storage. We decided to do floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and a built-in fridge to get the most storage and shelf space while keeping as much as possible put away and out of sight. We opted for custom cabinetry from AT Designs and chose GL Veneer’s Premium Rift Cut White Oak veneers for all the cabinetry and Emtek hardware for all the finishes. The neutral tones of the veneer bring a lot of soft warmth into the space. By having cabinetry that goes floor to ceiling, we were able to triple the amount of storage we originally had in the room. Rather than having cooking appliances on the countertops, like our Kitchen Aid Mixer or Vitamix, we can now store these items out of sight and bring them out as needed.

Flooring | Stools | Ceramic Pitcher | Footed Bowl (similar)
Space: Cooking, especially when you get in the flow, is almost like a beautiful dance. You might be sauteing something, then spin around to grab more ingredients before making your way back to the stove to finish it all off. When space is tight, it’s more difficult to find that cooking flow. After years of cooking in our kitchen, we knew we needed more space to move around while still maintaining the island. Removing it would have significantly reduced how much usable countertop space we had to utilize. Also, the island is where everyone gathers. Our kids and friends always love to spend time in the kitchen with us when cooking, so we wanted to create a comfortable place for them to sit and connect with us. We chose Article Esse Stools in White Oak with a leather seat for the island seating. They are comfortable and fresh-looking, while the oak color and leather complement the kitchen’s tones nicely.


With cooking and prep at the top of mind when designing the kitchen, we wanted to make sure we had enough usable counter space and that the material would be durable. We opted for Caesarstone countertops in London Grey. We chose this for its balance of performance, price, and quality. It’s less prone to staining and easier to clean and maintain than more porous natural stone such as marble. The London grey color has cool tones that compliment the warmer tones of the GL White Oak Veneers and the FireClay Tiles in Milky Way we used for the backsplash and shelf wall. We loved the contrast between the subtle texture of the handmade tiles and the smooth quality of the countertops. We also brought in the most beautiful indoor plants from Folia Collective as an added touch on the floating shelves, and by having them line the top shelf, our countertops and island still have a lot of usable space.

Espresso Machine | Espresso Grinder
Home Espresso Machine Setup: Two small children mean hectic mornings, and often for us, not great sleep. We need our coffee! We’d always been in the habit of getting a cappuccino outside the house after a morning Americano from our trusty Bialetti. We decided it would be great to learn to make our coffee drinks and have them whenever we wanted. So, we knew that our new kitchen would have an espresso machine setup plumbed in when we remodeled. This way, we would never have to fill and clean a tank multiple times per week. We partnered with Pasquini Coffee Co. to make our coffee dreams come true. They set us up with a beautiful Bezzera Duo De machine and a Mazzer Mini Electronic A grinder. We had the machine panels custom powder coated white and selected the grinder in white as well.

Skylight | Ceiling Flushmounts | Plants
Light and Lighting: Adequate natural light is so crucial to both of us when we are cooking. We also wanted the space to feel calm and inviting. The kitchen ceiling was always high and on a slant but had faux-wood beams across it. So, we ripped out the beams and decided to add a solar-powered skylight from Velux right above the island. It brings beautiful natural light into the kitchen throughout the day, along with touches of blue skies. It also opens, which helps with air circulation if it gets hot or a little smokey when cooking.
As for lighting, initially, we were thinking of adding pendant lights above the island but then decided to keep the space open and airy, adding two additional surface mount lights around the skylight instead. We chose Cedar and Moss Swift surface lights for the ceiling and RBW Dimple Flush Mounts as sconces on each side of the archway for accent. We added LED strip lighting under all of the lower floating shelves, which has turned out to be a beneficial detail when cooking at night. Also, switching out the dark engineered flooring in our entire house for a lighter engineered wood floor from National Hardwood, #304, made all the difference in how bright and light everything now feels.

Sink | Faucet | Beverage Faucet | Kitchen Towel (similar) | Glass Canisters | Pot Brush (similar) | Dinner Plates | Salad Plates | Cereal Bowls |
Sink and Faucet: The combination of being parents and foodies causes us to spend a great deal of time at our kitchen sink. With this in mind, we knew we wanted something larger than our original sink and more durable. We decided to go with Kohlers’ Strive stainless steel sink. For the faucet, we chose their Crue Kitchen Faucet in brushed brass so that it would complement the Emtek brass pulls throughout the kitchen. Having a larger sink has been a gamechanger for cooking and cleanup.

Here are the before and afters:



And, that’s about it! Thank you for letting us share our little kitchen journey with you and hopefully it inspires you to design some of your kitchens with cooking and entertaining at top of mind!
*Design by Barrett Prendergast
**Styled by Emily Bowser
***Photos by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
The post How To Make “A Cook’s” Kitchen – It’s Not Just About The Appliances appeared first on Emily Henderson.
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