Emily Henderson's Blog, page 235

#ShowEmYourHoliday: How YOU All Decorated For Christmas (Such Good Stuff, Folks)

design and image via @michelle_janeen

We’ve said it before and I’ll say it again here: this year’s Christmas crunch feels INSANE. I’m in the process of decorating (shooting tomorrow for the blog, eek!) and I feel like basically, Christmas might as well be over already…it’s happening THAT fast. Thanks for nothing super late Thanksgiving. Okay, grinchy moment over. But for real, that’s mostly just to say, we’ve thrown a lot of holiday content your way this week because it felt like, if we didn’t, by next week, there’d be no point. It’s probably safe to say MOST people have bedecked their halls already, but in case you haven’t fully and still looking for inspiration, I present to you one of my favorite posts of the season: our #ShowEmYourHoliday roundup, with photos from YOUR very own homes.

We did this last year, and it was SO much fun for us all to see how everyone was decorating. You can follow that hashtag to see everything that was posted (SO MUCH great stuff, guys), and also, in general, follow #ShowEmYourStyled to see what the EHD social community is doing at home. Anyhow, we loved it in 2018, and it seemed like you all did, as well. Any moment we can shout out our super talented followers and readers, we’ll take. That said, even if you’re all decorated up (or not decorating, or don’t celebrate), it’s more a voyeur moment of WHAT DO PEOPLE’S HOMES LOOK LIKE and we’re here for that (spoken from someone who spent much of her childhood visiting open houses with her parents not because we were moving, but because we wanted to, um…be creepy people who looked at how other people were living).

There were HUNDREDS of photos, and sadly we couldn’t run them all, but we hope you enjoy what’s here (and again, go check out #ShowEmYourHoliday for it all). Let’s do this.

Trees
clockwise from top left: @jyoungdesignhouse | @kensington_adobe | @unapologetic_home | @missesmacke_hometheology

So many beautiful trees, so few days between Thanksgiving and Christmas (okay, for real, I’m done with that now). I mean will you take a look at that tree from @jyoungdesignhouse? I love a tree that’s so heavily decorated, you can almost hear the branches screaming for mercy. The wood beads happening on the trees from @kensington_adobe and @missesmacke_hometheology have that sweet, Scandi vibe I’m very into this year, and clearly, woven tree collars are all the rage right now.

clockwise from top left: @goldalamode | @emilysuenetz | @allisonsextoninteriors | @carolineloganphoto

This is what I’m calling the “flocked glam” board and man are they all pretty, hm? I’m particularly enamored of the honeycomb paper ornaments on @emilysuenetz’s tree at the top right. Swoon.

Garland & Wreaths
via @carolineloganphoto

While I love a good tree moment, I gotta tell ya…the “garland and wreath” category is ALWAYS my favorite. Drape that greenery everywhere, people. You can either keep it super simple like @carolineloganphoto did above, or get a little friskier with lights, mix-and-match greenery, orange slices and more.

clockwise from top left: @prettydomesticated | @carpendaughter | @creekwoodhill | @carpendaughter | @caniwearvanswiththat | @homewithrue

Loving the swoop over window thing going on in @prettydomesticated’s dining nook, and the use of garland + dried oranges in that clerestory window bank is SO good from @creekwoodhill (who I met at our reader event and I’m basically obsessed with…hi Lea!!).

left to right: @cassie_bustamante | @1954_house

I needed some inspo for what to do on the mirror above my fireplace, and I think I’m going to tap this photo from @1954_house as my muse because it’s subtle but seasonal.

clockwise from top left: @kdiondesign | @elmhurstdesign | @jogalbraightathome | @hartley_home

I actually bought that same wreath over @hartley_home‘s mirror in that foyer (it’s from Target!) and it’s SO pretty both in photos and IRL. I’d also like to take a moment and call out that wreath-meets-gallery-wall moment from @elmhurstdesign. If I had a place to store art from my gallery wall, I’d probably be doing this also. Wait…maybe I will. Stay tuned.

via @kismet_house

And lastly in this category, from @kismet_house is this sweet wreath-hanging-from-stick thing that I’m VERY into. I love how the wreathes don’t necessarily “match” which makes it easier to do with what you’ve collected over the years (or will collect). Note the different hanging heights for that casual organic vibe.

Fireplaces
via @jillhinsoninteriors

HELLO CANDY COLORED BOTTLEBRUSH FOREST. Thank you @jillhinsoninteriors for this super fun vignette. So much of Christmas decor recently falls into the “natural/neutral” territory that feels very Pinterest, but this gives me life and reminds me that you can do WHATEVER YOU WANT. It would have been easy for this thing to have gone off the rails, but being that it’s all just one type of thing (bottlebrush trees), it works as a cool collection even with all those different colors.

left to right: @carpendaughter | @my_best_laid_plans

But of course if the neutral thing is your thing (and I get it, because it works best with most people’s everyday decor), this shot from @carpendaughter is so quiet and earthy (love the black tapers). Or take it up a notch with ribbon on each side, pinecones and lots of candles like @my_best_laid_plans did here.

clockwise from top left: @classicallydunn | @theheartandhaven | @sarahsmithdesignwa | @the.lovelee.life

More neutral inspiration here but man is it pretty. I’m particularly into @the.lovelee.life making the absolute most of that notch above the fireplace. No mantel, no problem.

clockwise from top left: @thegraycottage | @tonicliving | @suzannahstanley | @carolineloganphoto

Show me a dried orange garland, and I’ll show you a smile. It makes me think of the perfect Love Actually fueled English Christmas I’ve always dreamed of (says the Puerto Rican girl…). I applaud the soft swag of what @carolineloganphoto did above.

Shelfies & Tabletops
via @grace_start

This category is so great for everyone, but particularly for anyone who maybe doesn’t have a fireplace (me until I moved to LA…and even that is nonfunctioning) or a staircase. Take those other surfaces in your house (dining table tops, bookshelves, coffee tables) and sprinkle them with that seasonal sparkle people.

clockwise from top left: @1111lightlane | @michelle_janeen | @bykristinalynne | @unapologetic_home | @bowhousedesign | @rebeccaandgenevieve

Note the asymmetrical garland from @1111lightlane‘s shelfie, the ridiculously sweet pom pom garland/tree/art/wall textile from @unapologetic_home, and the wisp of eucalyptus in the bar setup from @bowhousedesign.

Exterior & Front Door
via @mewack

This photo from @mewack elicits the most serious The Holiday vibes for me (no, this isn’t England or LA, but I can’t explain how my brain works quickly, so I won’t). What a dream. I love the idea of just doing garland and wreathes with ribbon in the windows instead of a big explosion of lights (and lights IN the hanging greenery would also be a nice touch).

left to right: @missesmacke_hometheology | @sarahsmithdesignwa
Bedrooms & Bathrooms
via @kdiondesign

Now, bedrooms and bathrooms are probably not the first place you run to decorate for Christmas, but when you’re a holiday enthusiast, you’re a holiday enthusiast and you can’t be stopped. Just a subtle wreath (like in the bathroom above from @kdiondesign) is all you need to get that spirit going in a non-traditional “holiday” room.

clockwise from top left: @theharriethouse_joshuatree | @ernsthale | @prettydomesticated | @cassie_bustamante

Emily tries to put decorations or at least a fun tree in her kids’ rooms every year, and I am here for that. I was that kid who would steal leftover lights from the garage to Scotch tape around the edges of my bedroom’s ceiling line and beg and beg for my own tree (never happened). That sweet little ballerina in the shot from @prettydomesticated…I mean that was very much #kidgoals for me.

via @oho_house

And finally…a very cute little moment in a nursery from @oho_house. Get that baby in the spirit before they even know what’s happening (just make sure the garland is SECURELY attached to anything above a place where your bebe will be laying, duh.

OKAY. THANK YOU to everyone who tagged their home for this year’s #ShowEmYourHoliday post. Again, so much fun to see into your homes (and lives?), and now I can’t wait to go finish decorating because my brain is exploding with ideas.

 

The post #ShowEmYourHoliday: How YOU All Decorated For Christmas (Such Good Stuff, Folks) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

21 Gift Ideas For The Man In Your Life (From Brian Henderson Himself)

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: How We Decked Our Halls For Christmas

I’ve been asked to make a gift guide this year, which is funny because I blatantly use Emily’s gift guides anytime I need to buy her something. Like every time. So now the tables have turned! It may not sound very romantic to use a gift guide for ideas, that maybe I should surprise her with something. Well, let me take you back to New York when we were in our 20s and I got her what I thought was a really great sapphire necklace, but in reality was a basic, needlessly expensive thing that was totally not her style at all. She was super gracious and said she loved it, but later admitted that it wasn’t really the best purchase. Now repeat that story for like four birthdays, and anniversaries. It took me a long time to learn my lesson. It’s not like she didn’t love the gifts, she loved that I put so much effort and thought into them, and she let me down gently, but I learned that I should just ask her for ideas rather than spend money on something that isn’t going to work. I have no sense of women’s fashion! Or home decor! Why am I acting like she’ll love this new thing I found when she probably saw it like two years ago? It’s an unrealistic expectation.

I always wished there was a way for me to read her mind and see what she really wants, and then, voila. The gift guides were invented and my life got much, much easier. I wish every husband had them, it would save a lot of stress.

So, while this isn’t a direct wishlist for Emily to shop from, it’s a bunch of things that I think are cool and maybe you could ask the guy you’re shopping for if he thinks they’re cool, too. You can always surprise him with a sapphire necklace, and maybe he’s dying for a sapphire necklace, but it might be good to get a little guidance.

1. Crosley Nomad Portable USB Turntable, $130: I know I’m super late to this party, but I really want to get back into records. I heard an interview with Neil Young that convinced me that all the compression that goes into digital music is killing the depth of the sound. So this record player is here to help. It looks cool and is small enough to move out of pictures when Emily needs to shoot the latest, new credenza.

2. Grateful Dead “Dick’s Pick Vol 8” 5-LP Box Set, $140: And what better record to kick things off than one by my favorite band of all time. Have you heard the joke “What did the Deadhead at the concert say when his drugs wore off? “This band sucks!” Funny. I was told that one too many times in my life, but I’m still a fan, even though all my drugs have worn off.

3. 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Compact Drill/ Driver with Battery, Charger and Tool Bag, $99: I always wish that I were more like my friend Mike Kurtz. He’s super handy and super confident using all sorts of tools. He’s the guy we call to help build raised garden beds, or built-in bed frames. So when Mike Kurtz tells you that a brushless drill will save your life, you listen. I don’t even know what brushless means, but when I tried his drill, I felt like a god. So now I want one.

4. Cuisinart Glass Coffee Center, $365: We need this. Most nights I set a timer like an old dad, so we have a full carafe in the morning. But a lot of times I just want one cup in the afternoon, so this could do both!

5. Dublin Platinum Double Old Fashioned Glasses, Set of 4, $60: I think it’s time I had my own cocktail glasses. Don’t get me wrong, I love Emily’s taste in glasses, but when I have a Bushmills this Christmas, I don’t want to worry that the glass will break if I sneeze while holding it. I looked for a long time for a design I liked, and I’m sure there are better ones, but these ones seem unique enough without treading into “douche” territory.

6. BrewArt BrewFlow Beer Dispensing System with Kegging, $500: I’ve always wanted cold beer on tap at home. How cool would that be? To have a pint of draft beer whenever you want one? We were actually going to install one when we first renovated our house, but somehow it mysteriously got left out of the final plans. Hmmm… Well, now I can have a portable one! Yes, I’m a little worried that it would be too tempting to just constantly have a tap calling my name, but I can exercise restraint. Or maybe I could lock it in a gun safe or something.

7. JBL Clip 3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $40: Doughboys, The Oath, Dax Shepard, Off Book, The Daily… I listen to all these podcasts in the shower. It’s like having friends talk to you while you’re nude, it’s great. But as of now, I’m forced to tenuously balance my phone on the windowsill, crank up the volume, and pray that I don’t knock it off while scrubbing my armpits. But with this little clip on guy, I can flail around all I want and still have my friends in the shower with me!

8. Ceramic Car Coating: For the guy who has a vintage car, or just hates paying for car washes, I recommend ceramic coating. It allows you to just wipe off dirt and water spots, and it blocks UV so the paint will stop fading.

9. The Encyclopedia of Sandwiches, $19 and Nancy Silverton’s Sandwich Book, $13: There are few things I love more in this world than a good sandwich. I will travel a good 45 minutes out of my way to get a great Reuben or Italian sub. But it’s so hard to get the recipe right for something so simple. I mean it’s just meat, cheese and bread right?  I can make a pretty great sandy, but I could always use some help. Maybe someday, between the two of us, Emily and I, will open a Soup & Sandwich restaurant!

10. Katz’s Seasonal Subscription, $450: And of all the sandwiches that I’ve had, the corned beef Reuben at Katz in NYC is still my favorite. It’s literally the first place I go whenever I’m in town. But LOOK!! You can get a year-long subscription delivered to LA! I can make my own delicious sandwiches all year long! But seriously, Emily, LOOK!!

1. Levi’s Type III Sherpa Lined Denim Jacket, $129: Did you guys know that we got a vintage Chevy truck for my 40th bday? It’s like my third child, I love it so much, and my wife is amazing for indulging my mid-life crisis. But I need help living up to how badass it is, so this will make me look badderasser. I’ve been in love with sherpa jackets ever since Jordan Catalano wore one in “My So-Called Life.” I tried to copy his style back then, and I’ll keep doing it until I’m an old man. Catalano Fo Lyfe!

2. Vintage 1992 Grateful Dead Kind To Your Mind Tour T-Shirt, $139: Are you sensing a theme? Every guy loves a vintage T-shirt of their favorite band.

3. Skull & Rose Socks, $18: Socks. They’re so hot right now.

4. Reversible Bonding Jacket, $268: I feel like guys get hosed in the “in-between” department for jackets. They’re either lightweight or super heavy. A nice middleweight jacket is a secret weapon. I like this soft jacket. Or maybe I just like the guy wearing it. I mean, look at him! Yowza!

5. Bellroy Hide and Seek Wallet, $90: I’ve been accused of having a “Costanza” wallet that makes me lean to one side when I’m sitting because it’s so big. This would help. Although, I bet you that within a few months, I’ll have collected enough random cards to shove in this thing that it’ll become a Costanza, too.

6. Signature Zip Lined Hoodie in Bering Sea Heather, $120: I always need a good new hoodie. This one is a good mix of young dad, with a little skater/surfer in there. As long as it’s as soft as it looks, I am sold. That’s the hard thing about shopping online, you can’t feel the fabric. But this one looks super cozy.

7. Hanes Men’s 4 Pack Slim V-Neck T-Shirt, $21: Every guy looks good in a classic white V-neck. Trust me. I used to hate my hairy chest, I was self-conscious about it, so I was a “tight-neck-T-shirt” guy. But around 30, I said screw it and let that chest hair fly! And I think it made me feel more confident and comfortable. That’s a lot of psychology for a shirt. Sorry.

8. Nike Challenger Running Short, $40: Now these are for the post-New Year guilt workouts. And they’re controversial ’cause they’re kinda short, but I have to say, can we put an end to guys running in workout shorts that are so big and long that they almost trip on them? Hey dudes, you got nice thighs, let’s see them a ‘lil bit. Don’t be afraid. A 7-inch workout short is the perfect size, not super baggy, but not short enough to risk a popper-outer.

9. Men’s Jeffery Fashion Boot, $45: Every guy needs a good pair of boots for the winter, even if he’s “not a boot guy” you should just force him to try it, because it instantly makes you feel tougher and cooler. I’m actually wearing these boots as I’m typing this, and I feel pretty tough and cool, they’re legit. And I can’t tell you how many compliments I get on them. And no, I’m not promoting Target because Emily works for them, I’m doing it because it’s crazy that they’ve made boots that look like $300 for only $45. Trust me. Get these, they’re dope.

10. Mustache Wax, $10 and The Hand Made Pocket Comb for Beard and Mustache, $8: Did your husband grow a big gross mustache for Movember? I have a huge, disgusting mustache right now, and it’s kind of becoming a thing. But I can’t trim it because of a play that I’m acting in. So I use this wax to keep it in check. And a little comb. Otherwise, I literally chew on it at meals.

11. Orbit Glasses, 40: This one’s more for Emily than me. The amount of time she’s spent watching me look for my glasses in our house is astounding. And the amount of new curse words I’ve made up while looking for said glasses is also flarking astounding. There’s nothing more frustrating. So until I get Lasik, I think we should try this out. Oh, I’ll just be going to put that right on my gift guide—I think it would be awesome to be given Lasik for a Christmas present. But also terrifying. Please don’t write any horror stories in the comments, I’m already terrified.

And there you have it. Hopefully, this gave you some ideas on what to get the men in your life and if not, go for the sapphire necklace, I guess.

NEED MORE GIFT IDEAS? HEAD TO OUR GIFT GUIDE HOME PAGE FOR HUNDREDS OF HAND-PICKED, EHD-APPROVED GIFTS

The post 21 Gift Ideas For The Man In Your Life (From Brian Henderson Himself) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

What Boomer Moms/Grandmas REALLY Want (As Told to Me Via Text After a Wine Fueled Focus Group Led by My MIL)

We’ve done a lot of gift guides so far this year, but they were the more general “her” “him” “under $50” kind with gifts that yes, are picked by us right here, but for some of them, I wanted to know what specific people REALLY wanted, like…our moms and grandmas. So I asked my mother-in-law to ask her friends about what boomer mom/grandmas want for Christmas so we could write that gift guide (and out of genuine curiosity). At first, she didn’t seem that into it, until I got this bombardment of texts after a wine-fueled dinner party where she and her friends got INTO IT. What she proceeded to text me was riveting. Shocking. It wasn’t just what they want, but more what they want us to STOP giving them. And as the investigative journalist that I am, I feel compelled to give you this insider information.

Now, of course, she isn’t speaking for all moms and grandmas ages 55-80 so I know there will be some constructive discourse here, but if you want some insight into what 10 booming boomer women want AND DON’T WANT, keep reading.

Here’s her text:

“Just got to this. This is from polling my friends. Probably boring. Honestly, most of my friends would like theatre and music concert tix, airline passes, spa treatments, large magnified lighted makeup mirrors, hand made things from grandkids, art gallery memberships, gym or Pilates passes, golf lessons, painting lessons, kayak lessons, fly fishing lessons, restaurant credits for ladies who lunch. Best selling books and movies. Gift certificates for garden centers. Cozy winter throws.”

My internal reaction: I was so excited. Fly fishing lessons? Yes. That’s what they want…

But on further analysis, here’s what donned on me: they don’t want to spend their retirement on a temporary experience, especially not knowing if it’s going to be that good, but they still want to have fun and try it out. Plus, being retired, time is what they do have so they want to spend it in interesting, fun and purposeful ways. They don’t want things, they want more experiences and they don’t want to use their retirement money on that. Got it. Ironically, I don’t want those things. Sure, tickets to a band that I love or a play I really want to go to that is GUARANTEED to be good, but if someone gave me a gift certificate to a cooking class or even a spa treatment, I worry that I’ll first lose that piece of paper and second, feel guilty about not having the time to do it. It would actually become a source of guilt.

Learning a lot, right?? Let’s keep going.

“Even photo books take up too much room. How about the new device where you can watch photos on TV screen? Saw an ad, but can’t remember who. Main point—no little tabletop junk.” — Suz Henderson

Me: “So what do you NOT want?”

MIL (Suz): “Please, no more scented candles, picture frames (just send photos we can put on Facebook, we have thousands of frames). Which brings me to the thousands of photos—printed and digital. As we all eventually downsize, what to do? Even photo books take up too much room. How about the new device where you can watch photos on TV screen? Saw an ad, but can’t remember who. Main point—no little tabletop junk.”

My analysis: Alright. No more tchotchkes. That absolutely makes sense that after decades of collecting you have too much PLUS you are likely going to downsize so it just feels like a burden. BUT NO MORE  PHOTO BOOKS???? The last one I gave them is on their coffee table for a reason! I’m going to call BS on this one, but I’m also not going to make another one. I LOVE photo books! WE look at ours all the time. I don’t want to have to look at a device with the kids to relive memories. I don’t believe her.

Ironically, I’m just getting into framed family photos and love how much it warms up our home, but it totally makes sense that in 30 years from now, I might have enough and the amount of frames might feel like a burden. You don’t want to give them away because it was a sentimental gift but you might not want 15-year-old photos that aren’t really that good taking up real estate. So yes, Suz, there are a bunch of digital frames out there (and video calling devices like Facebook Portal and Google Nest Hub). You got it.

Me: “Do you guys like clothes? Scarves? Slippers? Robes? Luxury cashmere socks? Or not really? This is fascinating.”

Suz: “Honestly, maybe pretty silk or cashmere scarves, depending on climate. Robes and slippers—boring…unless granny is really old. But she’ll stick with her old, comfy stuff. We still love makeup, eye creams, and moisturizers and really good body creams as we are dry and wrinkly. I don’t take baths, but many of my friends do so the bathtub accessories and moisturizing soaks would be good.

For those of us that workout, cute workout clothes with no short or sleeveless tops.

Many of us are in book groups, so a Kindle or real best-selling books would be great…not sure if you can gift those Kindle books. But at $10 per book, gets pricey.

Is this helpful?

I’m on a roll!!”

Me: “Um. YESSSSS. I’m riveted. What else?”

Suz: “Find out mom’s interests: walking (step tracker), golf? Lots of golf websites for shoes, clothes, hats, golf clubs. Golf bags that can be personalized.

For friends that hike: backpacks, walking sticks, maps of local hiking sites. Fly fishing classes. Family trips to dude ranches (I’d love that.)

“I think Suz Henderson secretly wants some fly fishing classes, she’s mentioned it twice as if it’s just a thing that most people do.” — Me (Emily Henderson)

Books/websites about what grandparents can do to entertain grandkids daily or for longer periods-age appropriate. (Local outings, nature walks, arts & crafts, cooking, gardening, games, puzzles, etc.)?

My (internal) analysis: I think Suz Henderson secretly wants some fly fishing classes, she’s mentioned it twice as if it’s just a thing that most people do. But maybe at 70, you don’t want cooking classes, you’ve done that for decades. You want to do something mellow and relaxing in nature. And classes would force that. I can’t wait for your weeklong retreat in Montana next summer, Suz!

My actual response: “Okay, this post is going to be SOOO GOOD. Now if you were to receive homemade gifts from kids, do you have any sort of preference? Drawings versus ornaments? Like what do grandparents really want from their grandkids?”

Suz: “I think a written list: what I like to do with grandma or grandpa. Things I love about G; my favorite memory/time with G; G is funny when he/she does this; my wish for G is…; an animal that reminds me of G (with drawing). Christmas ornament with photo with G; a handprint with age & date; handmade necklace/bracelet; a compilation of videos with grandparents that can be watched on tv screen.”

And then it ended. One of us likely went to bed, but I just felt like it was such good insight into a generation that while I have so much in common with, are in such a different time in their life and have different needs. For instance, if someone bought me fly fishing lessons, I would open it and see guilt and shame, knowing that if I likely would never use it or if I did, it would be at the sacrifice of my kids or team.

Meanwhile she asked me what I want from her for Christmas, and I sent her links to two things on my gift guide that I will buy for myself if no one else does: the meatball maker which she replied via text “ugh, boring,” and this village cake for a new Christmas Eve or day tradition with the kids (no response).

Then I text, “All I really, really want from you guys is childcare so Brian and I can go away for a few weekends this year, maybe even New York for 4-5 days to see shows and relive our twenties. Or hell, out of the country; it’s been 8 YEARS since just he and I traveled together.”

I’ll buy myself that meatball maker if they give us some grandparent and (therefore guilt-free) childcare time. I may not have said all of that in one text, but that’s the request.

She agreed with two big thumbs up emojis.

I guess what it boils down to is that in my stage of life (running a company, small kids, no time for myself, girlfriends or husband) what I really want is MORE time and less guilt. And in HER stage of retired life, she has an abundance of time (and a ton of energy) so she wants to book it up doing interesting, cultural, physical and fun things but doesn’t want to feel like she is draining her retirement to pay for the Justin Timberlake concert or, say, fly fishing lessons.

2019 UPDATE: EHD-Approved Artificial Trees, Garland and All the Trimmings

Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Our Living Room Holiday Reveal

Last year, there was a BIG ask for our favorites shoppable Christmas decor items. SO this EHD styling elf scoured the internet to do just that…and we’re back with an update to that post. We are talking faux trees, garland, stockings, etc. I mean, recommending beautiful decor is kinda one of our favorite things to do, so granting a wish you asked for is a straight-up no brainer. I know we have already chatted about new styling ideas and going over our favorite vignettes from years past but now let’s get into the “add to cart” portion of the designing lesson, shall we?

First up, the most important piece to the holiday puzzle…the tree (and some very pretty ornaments).

1. 5.5ft Unlit Artificial Christmas Tree Virginia Pine | 2. Fabric Deer Christmas Ornament | 3. Pre-Lit LED Snowy Faux Noble Fir | 4. Gold Frasier Tinsel Tree | 5. 7.5 ft. Colorado Green Fir Artificial Christmas Tree with 500 Warm White LED Lights | 6. | 7. Ski Shop Rental Christmas Ornament | 8. Pre-Lit LED Faux Noble Fir | 9. Wooden Ornaments (set of 3) | 10. Opaque Ornaments (set of 6) | 11. Gingerbread Cloche Ornament | 12. 4ft Unlit Artificial Christmas Tree New Growth Balsam Fir | 13. Pre-Lit Artificial Tree | 14. 2-pack Christmas Ornaments | 15. Faye Festive Leaf Hooks, (set of 6) | 16. | 17. 7.5ft Pre-lit Full Balsam Fir Clear Auto Connect Artificial Christmas Tree | 18. 42ct Glass Round Christmas Ornament Set | 19. Paper Accordion Tassel Ornament | 20. Paper Tree Ornament | 21. 7ft Unlit Artificial Christmas Tree Alberta Spruce

I’ve always been on Team “Real Tree” but there are some very convincing faux options on the market. AND the amazing thing about a faux tree is that a ton of them come pre-lit. SIGN ME UP. It takes out all of the light spacing, cord tangling stress and leaves only the fun ornament hanging. Speaking of ornaments, I’m pretty sure I those brass leaf hooks (#16) immediately. It’s simple but SO pretty. I also personally purchased #9 and I love them. They feel organic but festive.

A tree really isn’t complete without a skirt or a tree topper right? A tree without a tree skirt (or collar) is like wearing an awesome fancy dress with flipflops. It’s just never okay. So to avoid this potential tragedy, here are our favorite stands, skirts and toppers.

1. Dasher Tree Topper | 2. Plaid Tree Skirt | 3. White Christmas Tree Stand | 4. Karina Woven Tree Collar | 5. Felted Dove Tree Topper | 6. Flake Velvet Burnt Gold Tree Skirt | 7. Unlit Metal Glitter Star Christmas Tree Topper | 8. First Frost Tree Skirt | 9. Buffalo Plaid Christmas Tree Skirt | 10. Faux Fur Christmas Tree Skirt | 11. Woven Tree Collar | 12. Reversible Stars and Plaid Tree Skirt | 13. Galvanized Metal Tree Collar | 14. Gold Star Tree Topper | 15. Moroccan Style Wedding Blanket Tree Skirt | 16. Tree Stand with Foot Pedal and Single Cable Operation | 17. Cable Knit Christmas Tree Skirt | 18. Square Rattan Basket | 19. Red and White Tree Collar | 20. Glitter Silver 3D Star Tree Topper | 21. Bash Gold Tree Collar

While I finally have a beautiful tree skirt (massive upgrade from last year’s “blanket”) I realllly love #4 . How STUNNING is it? But I also love #3, #6 and #10.

Next up, we have all the faux garlands and wreaths of your dreams.

1. 26″ Prelit LED Faux Candle Mixed Greenery | 2. 5ft Petite Flocked Wispy Artificial Garland | 3. Faux Cryptomeria Garland | 4. 72″ x 6″ Artificial Cedar Garland with Pine Cones and Glitter | 5. Cypress Wreath | 6. 24″ Artificial Cedar Christmas Wreath | 7. Faux Cedar Wreath | 8. Christmas Pom Pom Wreath | 9. 72″ Faux White Pine Garland with Berry | 10. 12″ Artificial Magnolia Leaves Wreath Green | 11. Faux Pre-Lit Nordmann Fir Wreath | 12. 72″ Faux Juniper Berry Garland with Pinecones | 13. 6ft Mixed Greenery Artificial Garland | 14. Pine Pink Wreath | 15. 72″ Pre-Lit LED Artificial Garland | 16. Preserved Fern Circlet Trio | 17. 72″ x 6″ Artificial Magnolia Leaves Garland | 18. 24″ Prelit Warm White LED Battery Operated Chunky Flocked Mixed Artificial Pine Christmas Wreath | 19. Faux Pre-Lit Bauble LED Evergreen Wreath | 20. Stargazer Illuminated LED Wreath | 21. Green Leaves And White Berries Wreath

Aside from a tree (of course), garlands and wreaths have the next biggest visual impact when it comes to holiday decor. I really love the delicateness of #7. It feels modern but approachable. Then Emily used #18 in her first round of decor for the mountain house and it looks awesome AND is pre-lit. Easy and awesome.

Now for my favorite topic: stockings.

8 Room Makeovers & Home Tours You’re Going to Want to Pin Like Crazy (We Did)

design by jessica helgerson design | photo by aaron leitz | via remodelista

We’ve reached that point in the year where it feels like if every post isn’t about the upcoming holidays, we’re failing to be “timely” and “seasonal” and “helpful.” And while I promise we have SO MUCH great festive content on deck, today, we’re taking a little bit of a break from all things merry and bright to oohh and ahh over some good ol’ fashion design…in the form of room makeovers and house tours that have crossed our eyeballs lately that we’re very, very into right now.

Come back later today for all things trees and trimming, but for now, scroll through for a sweet (calorie-free!) visual treat:

design by jessica helgerson design | photo by aaron leitz | via remodelista

Pacific Northwest design darling Jessica Helgerson is good guys. I’ve seen the sitting room (to the left with the green velvet built-in sofa) numerous times on Instagram, but I never saw the house it was in, and oh man, what a mistake that was. There have been many versions of a “dream house” my brain has cooked up over the years, but today, right now, this takes top billing. Besides, any home with a sunroom that gets that kind of light is worth a double-take, in my book.

design by jessica helgerson design | photo by aaron leitz | via remodelista

I don’t know what to discuss first here: that chandelier, that curved sofa or those armchairs? Why pick…they’re all glorious and statement-making enough to keep the eye interested and moving around the room without being TOO showy and stealing attention from the others. Bravo.

design by jessica helgerson design | photo by aaron leitz | via remodelista

This bed is otherworldly. It’s like a bed alcove without having to cut through the wall, and the combination of dark, luscious velvet combined with that stunning wood detailing is enough to make my knees buckle and collapse…right onto that mattress. Anyway, be sure to go see all the photos over on Remodelista.

Next up is a far, far more attainable project by Sarah from Room for Tuesday, who updated her family’s laundry room as part of this fall’s One Room Challenge (Julie dished on another ORC room crush she had in this post from the other week). When I first saw the “afters” (head here to see the super relatable “befores”), I thought “man, marble slab and marble mosaic on floor and walls…pricey! Until I read through her post and quickly realized she took a far more budget approach to the redesign.

design and images via room for tuesday

What looks like marble slab on that left wall is actually marble contact paper. The floors? Peel-and-stick tile and some more marble contact paper cut to size. Oh and the marble mosaic is also peel-and-stick. GUYS! Maybe in person it would be more noticeable, but it FOOLED me on camera. Also, to keep it even more budget, she opted to keep her existing cabinets and counters…she just painted them both and swapped out some hardware.

design and images via room for tuesday

If you read her post, you’ll learn that her original budget was a brave and daring $300, but ended up spending just over $500 because she underestimated how much of the “mosaic tiles” she needed. I also wanted to draw attention to the newly added shelf and bar for hangers that feels like it always should have been there (it wasn’t).

One more One Room Challenge for good measure because I’m always SO impressed by what the participants get done in such a short period of time (mind you, I still have dining chairs stashed in my bedroom that I’ve been “reupholstering” since 2015, so…)

This one comes from Jenni of I Spy DIY and it’s just so dang charming with that whispy garden-y wallpaper (a custom design she had her friend at Chasing Paper print for the project), that inky blue paneling (Behr’s Chimney) and that very dreamy window (which wasn’t there…ALL of this is new…the befores are downright SHOCKING).

I also wanted to show you this bathroom because she used a black toilet and I was dying to hear what you all thought about it. Non-white toilets are totally controversial in the design world, I know, but I gotta tell you, I don’t hate this in here. In fact, I love it, because it “blends” in more to the dark walls and lets the free-standing tub be the stair it deserves to be. There is the very real but very gross factor of never really being able to “see” what, ahem, ends up in there (good grief, I’m sorry I just said that) but my mother-in-law has a black toilet in a powder room and the first time I came across it, I was like “hmm…interesting.” ANYWAY…let’s continue.

Now, it’s time to flip flop back to pure aspiration because we love to torture ourselves.

design by studio giancarlo valle | via architectural digest

I first spotted the below oxblood-walled library sometime…last week? I then proceeded to send the above dining room shot to Jess because I know the girl appreciates things like random curved wood walls for seamingly no reason, chucky-legged everything and stone pedestal tables, and she screamed through our Slack DM RYANN HAS TO USE THIS IN THE LINK UP SHE MUST. Ha, too bad Ryann, I found it first.

There are SO many stunning photos from this home on the web-exclusive Architectural Digest feature but these three, in particular, have given me that cardio pitter-patter in my chest. I don’t understand what that fabric on the bench above is, but man do I love it and want it. The satin-y red walls, whoa. I always think I’m not bold enough to do a red-wall situation, but THIS, this convinces me that maybe in the right room, with the right furniture, it can be done.

The bedroom show has chartreuse wall-to-wall carpeting, and—I can’t believe I’m saying this—I’m CONVINCED. Plus, tassel pulls? Alright, I’m done now. Let’s move on so I can resuscitate myself.

I was SHOOK when I saw Erin from Apartment 34 post a carousel side-by-side on Instagram of the before and after of her San Francisco Victorian. Honestly, I straight up could hardly believe the transformation. Here’s the after (but go to her Instagram to see what I mean):

design by erin hiemstra | photo by seth smoot | via domino

Featured in Domino’s Winter 2019 issue, I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy to see MORE of this house. Her styling and material choices are just so, so good a bit cool-girl Parisian meets California casual in a way that doesn’t feel like a hodge podge of styles.

Erin, you’ve done good…THAT CHAIR…THAT WAVY PENDANT. What an eye on that one, hm?

Another designer with a serious eye is Sarah Sherman Samuel. I’ve been following her home renovation since she moved to Michigan last year and the transformation is finally here:

design by sarah sherman samuel | photos by matthew williams | via domino

I WILL be picking up the Winter issue of Domino to also see this, the cover story, because there are far more images than what I’m getting online and I’m ravenous to see them. It’s fun to see how she uses her own products in her home, but also sourced from places like Wayfair and Target (the light fixture in the bathroom above was from Leann Ford’s collection earlier this year and the tub, stool, fixture, and cage pendant are from Wayfair).

design by sarah sherman samuel | photos by matthew williams | via domino

The brass kickplate behind the island brings a serious glam factor to the more rustic ceiling, and I always love seeing a “stove nook.”

Now for something a little different in style, this home from Clever.

design by fabrikate | photo by jonathan van der knaap | via clever

The design on this one doesn’t scream EHD but once my eyes landed on that window cut out by the bench (and kitty), I was sold. I love how the custom bench curves right into the same surface (just clad differently) as the media console. And the little fireplace and flume…darling. I really appreciate when the design of homes have little moments like that that you don’t really see in other houses.

design by fabrikate | photo by jonathan van der knaap | via clever

And also, this bathroom is so, so great. I love the glossy subway tile juxtaposed with the matte cement tile (plus the organic, scattered pattern of the tile is ::chef’s kiss::).

AND FINALLY…

I say Julia of Chris Loves Julia share this super budget bedroom makeover recently, and I thought you guys would like it!

design and photo by julia marcum of chris loves julia

The “before” of this room is your basic tract home bedroom, but they added so much interest and character just by DIYing some molding and using a large area rug to cover up most of the beige wall-to-wall carpeting.

design and photo by julia marcum of chris loves julia

I love seeing a room that is very, very much attainable and doable for meer mortals like me, so thank you Julia for the inspiration!

And that’s it! Eight house tours and room renovations on our radar right now. I’m curious though…what do you prefer to see from us? More of the real-life home room makeovers or the purely aspirational stuff? I’m guessing it’ll be a split in opinions between the two, but maybe not? Let me know!

The post 8 Room Makeovers & Home Tours You’re Going to Want to Pin Like Crazy (We Did) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

16 Incredibly Thoughtful Non-Material Gift Ideas For Those Most Special to You

IT’S OFFICIALLY THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR. If you can’t tell by me type-screaming Christmas song lyrics at you, we love the holidays over here. A lot. So much so that we’ve already leaned into the season but now it’s post-Thanksgiving and no one can tell us not to. Here’s what we’re up to: drinking gallons of cocoa, decking halls, listening to Michael Buble’s Christmas album on repeat, decorating the heck outta a Tannenbaum, oh, and that reminds me that there are about one million gifts I still need to buy.

Luckily, we’re deep into the land of gift guides. If you’re stuck like I am, here’s what to give to the guys in your life, your gal pals, your Secret Santa, anyone if you have a $50 budget, the kids, and Emily (as in, what she thinks are good gifts, not what she’s telling her staff to buy her, ha). BUT WAIT! What about your S.O., your parents, your best friend who spends way more than you do on presents? Some of the best gifts for the best people just can’t be wrapped up in a box, tied with a bow. This guide here is more about the experience or the sentimental. The non-material gift ideas that we can almost guarantee ANYONE and EVERYONE will love. Here’s how to tenderly whisper “hey, I love you and you mean the world to me” without having to fumble around for the scotch tape:

The Friend/Family Member You Want to Spend More Time With

Sur la Table Cooking Class + Standing Dinner Date: I don’t know what it is but there’s just something SO romantic about food, which is maybe why I think being a good cook is an incredibly attractive quality for any person to possess. If you agree, then give the gift of sex-appeal (or maybe just have a good time with the foodie friend in your life) through a Sur la Table Cooking Class. Then make it even MORE romantic (or plutonic—I don’t know who you’re giving this to), by making a date to remake the meal and practice those newly acquired skills.

Shaker + Spoon Subscription Box + A Scheduled Reoccuring Happy Hour: Now here’s something I’d recommend for someone that seeks out a good cocktail, likes to make their own concoctions at home, or maybe just likes to get a little toasty on occasion, hey, I don’t judge. Here’s the greatest reason to hang out with someone and learn to make cool drinks! Commit to swinging by when the box arrives (you bring the pizza, maybe?) for a night of playing mixologist with your favorite imbiber.

Ice Cream Pajama Party: I’m sorry, but did you know you can get ice cream delivered straight to someone’s door from Jeni’s? What a time to be alive. So, for the “artisanal” ice cream lover in your life, this one’s for you (or them). (It’s also great for long-distance lovers or BFFS…just throwing that out there.) Get them an ice cream subscription, pencil in a date if you’re nearby to put on your coziest PJs and have an ice cream pajama party (we are gladly accepting invitations for this, because sounds like fun).

That Person You Want to Wow With Your “Effort”

Pretty Vessel + Little Papers With Personalized Compliments Written on Them: The story goes (I don’t know, I wasn’t here at the time) that for last year’s EHD holiday outing, which included a Secret Santa gift exchange, Jess brought Arlyn to tears with a beautiful ceramic vessel full of little papers with happy thoughts and compliments, so EHD followed suit by making it a birthday tradition this whole past year. IT’S SERIOUSLY THE BEST. Find a pretty vase (one big enough to stick your hand in), a box or even pretty planter, write down a bunch of nice things about a person (or get people in their life to do it with you), and wait for the tears to start flowing.

Custom Illustration: We’ve recommended this before and everyone loved it, so here we are again! Some ideas for the subject of the illustration: a pet, someone’s children, a family photo, a wedding photo, someone’s first home…get creative! Most custom illustrations won’t run you more than $50 but feel like you put a TON of thought into the gift (just be sure to allow time for the creation of the piece…this is not a “last-minute” idea…unless you’re artistic and doing it yourself).

Photo Book: There is not a parent/grandparent out there that wouldn’t squeal with delight opening up a customized photo book that you created for them (and we back that statement with our 100% money-back guarantee!). And honestly, it’s just a really good gift for anyone you care about/cares about you. It takes a little time to gather all the photos and design out the book, but sites like Artifact Uprising make it as easy as it’s going to get. (Again, plan a little extra time to build out the book and for printing.)

To Improve Someone’s Everyday Life

Skillshare Subscription: Bring out their inner hobbyist (or help them to discover what that hobby is). Emily worked with Skillshare on a styling course this fall (check that out here), but the site doesn’t just offer design e-classes. There is literally something for everyone, from cooking to business to art and photography.

Tidy Cleaning Service: WHERE DO WE SIGN UP? We know “cleaning” doesn’t sound “fun” but think of all the time you’ll be giving back to someone by letting someone else clean for them. A great add-on to the cleaning service is “tickets” someone can cash in for some fun with you (picnic at the park? movie date?) while SOMEONE ELSE is making their house sparkly.

Car Detail + Oil Change: Again, maybe not the most razzle-dazzle gift on this list, but a car detail and oil chance are the types of things everyone can definitely use but would rather spend their money on something else. Gift them a Groupon gift card so they can pick the spot that’s most convenient to them.

Someone You Want to Feel Pampered

Zeel In-Home Massage: Just what someone needs after the rush rush of the holiday season, right? Zeel offers in-home massages all across the country, so just double-check that their services are available in your giftee’s market.

Spa Finder Gift Card: This one is for the spa-lover who might prefer other services, like a facial over a massage (though Spa Finder can also, of course, be used for a massage at a ton of participating spas across the nation).

ResortPass: You know that friend/cousin/uncle who comes to life the second they plop themselves down next to a hotel pool, but also feels shady about sneaking in to use a really nice resort’s facilities if they aren’t actually staying there? Bring on the ResortPass. Basically how it works is, you pay a day rate for access to the pool or spa (or other amenities) of a posh hotel even if you aren’t an official overnight guest. This is great to use on vacation if you’re staying at a more affordable spot but want to feel fancy at that rooftop pool, or even locally to check out the offerings at a spot in your own neck of the woods.

The Adventurers and Travelers

National Parks Subscription: If you have a hiker, traveler, camper or general nature lover in your midst, an annual pass to any park managed by the Forest Service, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Reclamation is covered in this subscription. Valid a year from the month of purchase.

Cloud 9 Living Experiences: Cloud 9 Living has over 2,300 experiences to pick from in over 55 locations across, such as driving experiences, flying, getaways, scenic cruises, spa packages, guided city tours, golf lessons and more. We feel pretty solid on the fact that anyone would likely find a handful of activities they’d be super jazzed to try out (that they might not think to do for themselves).

Airbnb Gift Card: Airbnb isn’t just for overnight stays in cities you don’t live in. They have a ton of other local experiences (and just launched culinary which lets you enjoy a homecooked meal with a warm and welcoming native to the city…and that’s either your worst nightmare or your greatest dream).

Pack Up + Go Trip: Okay, so fair warning, this is not for the control freak in your life, but for your more loose and free loved one, Pack Up + Go will plan a surprise trip (from a road trip to a place that requires airfare) with all the details figured out based on your preferences. You just show up to the airport and get ready for a good time.

NEED MORE GIFT IDEAS? HEAD TO OUR GIFT GUIDE HOME PAGE FOR HUNDREDS OF HAND-PICKED, EHD-APPROVED GIFTS.

***lead photo by Veronica Crawford; styling by Jess Bunge and Arlyn Hernandez

The post 16 Incredibly Thoughtful Non-Material Gift Ideas For Those Most Special to You appeared first on Emily Henderson.

We Break It Down: How to Decorate For Christmas One Vignette At A Time

Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: My First “Refined Traditional” Holiday Look…Holiday Style

Happy December Ya’ll! On Friday, way back in November, we talked about the “new” ideas on the Christmas decorating scene. But you know what? Emily and past EHD team members have decorated some pretty beautiful holidays spaces over the years that are chock full with beautiful and useful tips. So to help you maximize your Christmas style, I am going to dissect some of our favorite vignettes to help you further get inspired and maybe attempt some similar looks. Now first and foremost…the tree.

The Traditional Tree
Left: Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp, From: My First “Refined Traditional” Holiday Look…Holiday Style | Right: Photo by Zeke Ruelas, From: At Home With Ginny For Christmas

There are lots of ways and color schemes to choose from when decorating a Christmas tree. But there is something truly wonderful and extremely nostalgic about a traditional red and green color combo.

Emily’s Portland tree (left): She went a bit more modern with a tree that isn’t as full (more sparse and Scandi) and with hits of black to ground the red and green. It looks “cool” but happy.

Ginny’s traditional tree (right): She went more cozy with a fuller tree and hits of gold instead of black. What is also fun about her tree is that she used both a basket for a stand AND a faux fur tree skirt to give it a maximum cozy look.

Now, in terms of ornaments, both of them evenly spaced out sizes, colors and textures to make sure the tree felt visually balanced. Man, I would love to come home to either of these Christmases.

The Modern Tree
Photos by Sara Ligorria-Tramp, Left to Right: Brady’s Holiday Decor | How We Decked Our Halls for Christmas | Our Living Room Holiday Reveal

I’m sure it’s no surprise (if you know my general aesthetic) but this is the type of tree that speaks to me…the modern tree. Nothing too crazy here, just three different color schemes that don’t involve red but still knock your holiday socks off.

Brady’s monochromatic tree (far left): What makes it awesome is that the tree itself is perfectly imperfect. Not a sparse Scandi type, but a tree that has some excellently placed “bald” spots. Brady kept his color palette 100% neutral, letting the greenery of the space be the star and the ornaments adding the perfect amount of glitz.

Emily’s 2018 warm neutral tree (middle): This is my dream tree. I love how “pleasantly plump” it is and goes against the traditional, more slender conical shape. Then Em still kept it neutral with the ornaments but with happy warm tones like copper, gold and blush. She also kept it kid-friendly with little animal ornaments and personalized frames (all within that same color palette). It’s just such a good tree.

Emily’s 2017 neutral and navy tree (far right): This is the perfect tree and color palette for someone who wants a neutral-toned tree but still wants a bit of a traditional feel. I’m talking navy blue. This tree has a ton of playful kid-friendly ornaments and is made even more playful by the hits of dark blue. Modern but so darn cute.

The White Tree
Left: Photo by Jayme Burrows, From: California Winter Wonderland Glam | Right: Photo by Tessa Neustadt, From: Decorating For The Holidays – Family Friendly Style

I wouldn’t say I’m a white tree kinda gal but when they are done right, they are pretty undeniably wonderful. They call for happy colors and a big dose of playfulness and that is exactly what Emily and team did for these two beauties in her old house.

Emily’s warm metallic ribbon tree (left): This tree is proof there is no one way to decorate a tree. If you like just ornaments, great. If you love garland, wrap that tree up. And if you love bows, then you go for it and adorn oversized bows onto your tree. Tell me that’s not fun and straight-up delightful?! But the reason why it works is because the rest of the ornaments are pretty simple in texture and strategic in color. There aren’t a ton of animals, frames, wood objects etc. Just a handful of slightly differently shaped, metallic balls.

Emily’s kid focused red and green tree (right): Tell me this tree doesn’t make the kid inside of you light up. The key here is to keep the reds and greens bright! This way they really pop off the white of the tree. Then from there, it’s just about fun. Adding in little Santas, candy canes, hot chocolate mugs and a red beaded garland help to give some visual breaks for your eye to rest. Because otherwise, it’s happiness overload.

***Side note Emily prefers the “warm light” color for her string lights. It just makes everything feel cozier.

The Link Up: Jess’ Perfect Date Night Blouse, Mallory’s Hair Styling Hack & A Mind-Bending New Series

image via Architectural Digest | design by Kyle O’Donnell of Gramercy Design, home of David Harbour

Just like that, Thanksgiving is over and December is upon us. You guys, that means Christmas is a mere three weeks away. HOW?!? Questioning it will not make it any less real, but man does time fly. In any case, we hope you all had a relaxing week and Thanksgiving, and if you missed what we were up to this week, here’s a little recap: we launched EVEN MORE gift guides (Emily’s and kids), queried about what might be the new marble, got real about Sara’s fireplace design agony, perused TONS of Black Friday sales (many of which are still happening—so head over quick), shopped small business Saturday and so much more. What a week. Now we are back with what we all know and love: The Link Up. Let’s get to it:

Today’s home tour (via Architectural Digest) is home of David Harbour (who you may know as Sheriff Hopper from Stranger Things) and it is the perfect mixture of old school and modern and we are VERY into it. (Make sure to check out the bathroom to really get your heart PUMPING).

From Emily: “Here’s another article reconfirming our parenting approach. If only America made it a bit easier for us and our kids. Thesis: happiness leads to achievement, achievement does not lead to happiness.”

Let’s all check out Count Crowley. It was created by a friend of Velinda’s, and is a humorous, action/horror series with a badass chick in the lead. It’s out now and not staying on shelves long, so get an original copy while you can (p.s. it’s a great gift!)

Sara bought this little guy at Target the other day on a whim and was not disappointed. From Sara: “I’ve wanted an oil diffuser for a while now but wasn’t ready to drop $100+ on a fancy one. But while I was in my favorite aisle (the candle aisle), I spotted this one for $17.99 and brought it home with me. I’m now addicted and even bring it to work with me most days.”

Ryann bought this incense last week and cannot get enough of it. Says Ryann: “This stuff smells STUPID good. My boyfriend and I love it because it isn’t too flowery (it actually smells quite cologne-y) and it burns for a while, leaving our entire apartment smelling amazing for hours.”

Arlyn will be spending her Thanksgiving weekend bingeing Undone on Amazon Prime. She started it last weekend and says it’s mind-bending, mesmerizing and just very interesting/different storytelling (that may or may not involve time travel…sort of). Watch it and see for yourself. 

Veronica bought this coat over the weekend and loves it. She’s been searching for a nice, long coat for a while, and was so happy to finally find the one. It is super comfy, goes with everything and keeps you warm.

Jess sort of went on a shopping spree last week and this is her other new favorite blouse (the first you can find in last week’s linkup). She says it feels and looks amazing on. She also likes that it’s a little fancy with the heavy satin fabric and subtle floral print. She mainly loves that she can wear it to work and on a date (maybe just with an extra button undone ;).)

From Julie:”Typically for the holidays, I will make a big batch of spiked cider using whiskey, Trader Joe’s Spiced Cider, sliced oranges & cinnamon sticks. But the other day I found the fancier version of my cocktail on Half Baked Harvest that I have to test out this season. It is basically an old fashioned garnished with rosemary and brûléed oranges, you had me at bourbon”

Tearjerker: Caitlin got emotional reading this piece by Connie Schultz about home improvement in times of grief. If you’re here, you’ll like it. (Also, it definitely reminds her of the premise behind Orlando’s show, and she’s VERY EXCITED for season 2!)

From Mallory: “I don’t use hair products (except for shampoo and conditioner—for obvious reasons), but my parents recently gave this to me for my birthday and it has CHANGED MY LIFE. It’s a blow-dry primer so when you go to blowout your hair, it restrains the tiny baby hairs everyone hates from becoming FRIZZY.”

Alright friends, that is all for now. We’ll see you around here tomorrow (we hope). Happy Sunday! xx

The post The Link Up: Jess’ Perfect Date Night Blouse, Mallory’s Hair Styling Hack & A Mind-Bending New Series appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Shopping My Favorite Gift Shops In Our Neighborhood for Small Business Saturday

Outfit details: Sweater | Shirt (similar) | Pants | Socks | Boots | Necklace | Purse

Angelenos love to battle ‘best neighborhood’ as most cities do, and while I often complain of the traffic and ego of Hollywood, the east side is (in this aging hipster’s opinion) THE BEST WE GOT. We may not stay in LA forever but Brian has a mustache and I’m literally an “influencer” that does fashion photoshoots on the corner of sunset junction so it’s appropriate that we are on the east side, near the neighborhoods that make one feel young and happening – I’m talking Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Echo Park and Atwater Village.

So, my team and I visited a few local design/fashion boutiques last week to help promote them for shop small Saturday. Now, in order for our small business to stay in business I wore a few different outfits and have linked them up (we get a small commission from any purchases, which helps sustain our business). Yes, I see the irony here – but we are very happy to at least be able to use this “influence” to get people to some of the best local stores in LA for gift shopping.

Lake

I would always pop into Lake when it was next to Lawson Fenning, but now it is closer to home, at least three times the size and full of SO MANY GOOD THINGS. It’s very dangerous and you’ll likely buy more for yourself than someone else. But it’s full of a lot of local designers who make clothes, jewelry and home decor so shopping here feels good.

Their inventory changes all the time and I love that it’s not one of those shops that sells 9 things. You can spend a 1/2 hour in here, easily.

As you can probably tell from the photos, this place has something for everyone, like this pitcher and that lidded glass vessel which I personally think would be great gifts. Like I said, it’s difficult to shop here without wanting things for myself, but I abstained – waiting for the sales this weekend.

That sweater was INSANE (this is a real shot of my reaction, not amped up despite its cartoon-like enthusiasm.) and I wanted to justify buying it SO BAD. P.s. You guys are going to be shocked/pleased or horrified at where my fashion style is going in 2020 (not represented in my outfit here, but just wait). When the kids and Brian were out of town this week I spent 3 hours watching my favorite new genre of movies–a combination of hallmark holiday and coming of age, mostly with teenagers or college students almost kissing–while I ripped through my closet, creating outfits that are less ‘chambray all day’ and more ‘blind clown’. IT’S VERY EXCITING.

*high five if you’ve been reading long enough to know the blind clown reference – an actual comment from a reader, although I think the word ‘drunk’ was also in the description of how I used dress. She’s coming back in 2020, so I can’t wait for another colorful criticism of what ‘blind clown 2.0’ will look like.*

Anyway, If you are in LA and want to stop by (and you SHOULD) be sure to have lunch at Botanica next door – where you’ll see me often. If you like fresh farm to table food, and I mean literally right from the farm, this place is for you. I take out of towners here all the time because it kinda feels like a quintessential LA east side restaurant, in that the food tastes like grass (in a good way, obviously). When I want to splurge on a meal that I know came from somewhere local, and is full of clean/organic/pasture raised DELICIOUS food and drink, I go there (see? proving myself a real LA gal right there). I just believe it’s nice to support restaurants that are supporting local farms and not the industrial agriculture system.

The Odells

This shop, The Odells on Sunset blvd, has survived all the shifts in this neighborhood, probably because they carry awesome clothes and jewelry (and are more affordable than other boutiques on this side of town).

They now have their own line that you can get at Nordstrom which I didn’t know, but I think is great because their stuff deserves to be seen by the masses.

Yes, I love a floor length floral gown for obvious reasons and was very tempted to buy.

As I was wearing my plaid pants I saw those and realized they are actually THE PLAID PANTS. I’m on a bit of a shopping hiatus (thus the 3 hours of closet shopping the other night) but will be coming back here to shop, possible when the holidays are over. They also had a cobalt blue wool coat that I want SO BAD but again, refrained (albeit reluctantly).

Yolk
Outfit details: Sweater | Skirt | Purse | Boots

Next I popped into Yolk which is literally GIFT GALORE and happens to be right next to The Odells.

Sunset Junction is in Silver Lake and has shop after shop, restaurant after restaurant (Cafe Stella is my go-to) and it’s one of the few neighborhoods in LA that is really walkable. My girlfriends and I will go for the full day of bopping around, brunching/shopping like the basics we are – and we aren’t alone. It’s pretty great.

Those vases are VERY cute gifts for coworkers, friends, or anyone that likes home style and has a naked nightstand, and that Clay book is very inspiring and would be perfect for someone who loves all things pottery.

Midland

Kelly and Paige (friends of mine) opened Midland a few years ago on the east side and I frequent it often. Their selection of ‘uptown prairie’ is pretty epic.

Again, full of tons of local artisanal goods, jewelry, clothing, bags, pottery – you name it.

I wanted that gingham dress for thanksgiving, despite its absolute oversized-ness (see below for my gingham dress of choice).

Mohawk General Store

We popped into Mohawk General Store, a place I go more for inspiration than purchasing (due to its splurge-y nature) but it does inform me what is happening next in fashion and introduce me to new brands. It’s one of those stores that major brands like Madewell go into to know what is happening next so they can, you know, make their more affordable version of it.

That sweater is RIDICULOUSLY GOOD, and I much preferred this gingham dress (it has pockets, it swings) but skipped it for now.

I haven’t shopped in person in stores in FOREVER due to work/life and it is honestly inspiring and much needed. Brian has never understood shopping and can’t wrap his mind around wanting to pop into a store just to look, not buy – it baffles him – but touching and holding anything that is beautiful is inspiring. It just is.

We only had time to go to a few but want to highlight many more in our neighborhood. If you are in LA today (or ever) – head to Silver Lake/Los Feliz, Echo Park and Atwater Village (Atwater is another one that is VERY walkable and has great food, too). Shop local, guys. Anytime. All year, but especially during the holidays when these stores that cary local goods, because they make a lot of what they need for the year to survive this insane online retail market.

IF you want more – here are some of my other favorites.

Reckless Unicorn – Kids gift/clothes boutique and a happy place to be. Say Hi to Annie and Derik from me!

Individual Medley – Clothes, gifts, local art – dangerous and SO GOOD.

Dekor – Long time shopper of home goods and gifts. Hi Isabella.

Treehaus – Cute kids gifts and clothing.

Avion Clothier – Splurge-y ballet inspired fashion that is BEAUTIFUL. Worth the pop in just for inspiration.

Arora Bohème – Cute DIY inspo (and they host workshops)

Potted – Very cute outdoor stuff and all things garden related.

Salvare Goods – Vintage, more of a flea market style.

Broome Street General – ALL THE GIFTS and coffee.

Clover – Gifts, clothes and general cute stuff.

Vamp Shoes – I rarely even go to shoe stores these days, and I kinda forgot about Vamp but it has GREAT stuff.

Spitfire Girl – All the gifts. I’ve shopped here for years.

Lost and Found – Technically outside our neighborhood, but its too good not to include.

Also we did a ‘best home stores in LA’ post here if you are coming around and want in on more than just our side of town.

There is a warehouse in Atwater near Light Lab that is great that I want to call out but I can’t remember the name. Email us or leave in the comment so we can shout out! And if I’m forgetting other shops, please please leave them in the comments. xx

**photography by Veronica Crawford

The post Shopping My Favorite Gift Shops In Our Neighborhood for Small Business Saturday appeared first on Emily Henderson.

7 New Ideas That’ll Shake Up Your Old Christmas Decor

Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: How We Decked Our Halls for Christmas

Let me start this post by saying I hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday and got to spend it with people they love or at least like a lot.