Friday Five

For the past month, I've been super busy with clients ordering/fluffing/preparing for the holidays.  It may sound crazy but with a lead time of 8-12 weeks, you have to start early to have any custom upholstered pieces by the holidays.  So, in an effort to get us all excited and in the mood for the holidays that will be upon us in just a few short weeks, I've decided to start a new series on Fridays called the "Friday Five."  This series will focus on all things holiday.  First starting with Thanksgiving and moving into Christmas.  

So, here are my five picks this week.

Pumpkin Apple Crisp

This looks so yummy.  When the weather gets crisp and cool, I begin to crave these kinds of desserts.  

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I did indulge in a Pumpkin Spice Latte this week from Starbucks - truly pumpkin pie in a cup!

Perfect Weekend Wear

I took a very fun girl's shopping weekend a few weeks ago and was on a mission to find the perfect trench coat.  It never materialized, but I've not given up yet.  Look how fabulous it would be paired with jeans and a navy sweater.  Love.

Cashmere and Gingham by bluehydrangea featuring post earrings

Relaxing Walks
The leaves here in Birmingham are turning the most gorgeous colors at the moment, and weather is so crisp.  My plan is to take a long walk on all the newly finished sidewalks in our neighborhood.   I may even find some natural materials along the way to use on my tabletops for the holidays.

Place Settings

This past week, I worked with a client on some fresh table setting ideas using her china along with a few new pieces to make everything feel new.  We worked on some ideas for Thanksgiving, Christmas and even New Years's Eve.  Now's the time to get your ducks in a row for your table - before the rush begins. 

Look at this stunning table from Sharla Eck - I love the mix of green glass, gold charger, chocolate linens and natural centerpiece.  It makes for a casual, yet sophisticated table.  Love using a mix of patterns and styles on a table.

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Plethora of Before and Afters

If you love a good before and after, you are going to go nuts when you see these final reveals from the "One Room Challenge."  This amazing event is the brain child of the very talented Linda of Calling It Home.  Linda gathered a group of bloggers together to give one room a total makeover in six weeks.  The bloggers in the challenge have been posting once a week on their progress and this week they had their final reveal (which is of course, my favorite part!)

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One of my favorites is this stunning room by Mary Ann of Classic Casual Home.

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But every single one of these bloggers has included some clever ideas in their redesigns.  Go check them out (here's a link to all the rooms you will have to scroll to the bottom to see all the links - the ORC).  Enjoy your weekend! M.