Soft throw blankets, scented candles, and pumpkins are fall classics that we know and love (although the pumpkin spice flavor craze may be a little more divisive), but lately I’ve been thinking about autumnal things that still bring on cozy feelings, but that may be a little more, unexpected. Rather than simply bringing in pretty, warm toned decor, I wanted to make the season feel like an experience by exploring it through our Five Senses. Rich textures, delicious flavors, warm scents, soft sounds, and natural visuals get me into the autumnal spirit. I hope these offer new ways for you to embrace the season!

I recently stumbled across this home tour and fell in love. The gorgeous kitchen is filled with trinkets and treasures found and gathered over time, and because of that, it’s filled with character and charm. It’s the home of John Derian, decoupage artist and decor shop owner, but what I admire the most about all his work and his home, is how collected and natural it feels.

You may remember my previous post about How to be Inspired - The French Greenhouse, and in this next installment, I want to use John’s gorgeous, collected kitchen as a jumping off point for how you might reinterpret the space for your own home. John’s home was left mostly un-renovated to appreciate the timeworn finishes - history is spilling from every corner, so most of the items are vintage and one of a kind. Below are some of the ways I was inspired by his kitchen. I’d really like to hear what you take note of in the comments. Studying the images as art helps us to conceptualize them in our own way.

When I was in high school, I spent several summers working at the Carlsbad Caverns National Park selling turquoise jewelry to tourists. I thought it was a pretty sweet gig, making a king's ransom of minimum wage, while having the chance to practice speaking French with unsuspecting customers visiting from abroad. Early each morning, I would park my car in a grocery store parking lot and take the 40 minute ride to work aboard the company bus. I would spend much of that time reading books or staring out the window at the vast desert landscape, lost in thought. Looking back now, I see that it was the beginning of my morning quiet time ritual, one that I still practice to this day.

I don’t know about you, but I’m really missing travel - the excitement of waking up somewhere new and experiencing the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of a place. I’m particularly missing my annual trip to France to host The Academy and have been reminiscing about the last six years I’ve spent gathering women from around the world for a week of inspiration and creativity. In an effort to travel vicariously with you, I’m sharing how we created this beautiful table setting to celebrate our final evening together, gathered at the table with a delicious meal, and give you the recipe for our aptly named - French Farewell Salad.

Continuing with our interview series of creative female entrepreneurs, I want to introduce you to my friend, Lisa Romerein. Lisa is an incredibly talented and successful photographer who has captured countless homes and locations all over the world - you may have seen her work already and not even realized it! Her images are regularly published in national magazines and books, such as The House that Pinterest Built and Patina Farm, just to name a few. Seeing her name on a call sheet brings me so much joy, knowing I’ll have another opportunity to work alongside her. She is the ultimate professional and working with her has been a highlight of my career. I think you’re going to enjoy getting to know more about Lisa, including her favorite photography gear, what fuels her creativity, and her idea of the ultimate day off!

Yay, it’s Friday! Or does it feel like a Wednesday to you? I know it can feel like they all blend together now. I’ve been keeping busy with coaching clients and moving the shop over to the main site so we’re not running two websites. Bringing it all in house feels good and like the right time to do it. There will be new inventory from France is coming soon! Today I thought I’d bring back another old school post - Friday Favorites! I’ve missed these simple types of posts and hope you have too. Here are some things I’ve been loving lately, from my favorite flowy dress to what I’m reading.