Morning! So, I had some reaction to my Zentique recommendation yesterday in Favorite Things Friday. Yes, items were a bit pricey. If you’ve read my blog for a while now, you know I am all for finding pieces at flea markets, repurposing old items, hunting through Grandma’s attic for a cool piece to refinish or even stopping on the curb to snag a few chairs someone is discarding. This is how I started decorating my house and I love the hunt & process.
BUT, I also see the value of dreaming BIG for your home. If you are obsessed with making your space beautiful & comfortable & personal like I am, it is inspiring to look and see what is out there. What could you copy or find cheaper or maybe even save your pennies for a few years to one day buy?
Before starting Blue Egg Brown Nest I had no budget for furniture and with 3 children there was no budget coming along any time soon. I did allow myself to dream & look at beautiful pictures. Well, after a few refinishing projects I was able to save up enough to buy my very first treat.
My Rachel Ashwell chaise.
Now when I look at it I know how special it is. I knew the look I wanted, I knew what would fit and when I could make it happen I did.
It may sound a bit silly to dream about furniture, but it’s not about the fabric & wood. It’s about creating a lovely & inviting space where you can find freedom & peace. The world is a really tricky place and there’s nothing like coming home and finding something beautiful to look at – like a pillow or chair or maybe a soft, orange cat.
I agree nice pieces are a treat. I like to incorporate smaller inexpensive pieces with the nicer ones for an overall balanced look. Love your side chairs and couch by the way!! Where did you find them? Love your blog btw!!!
I looked at the website and didn’t even look at the prices. I look at things I cant afford all of the time. I do it for ideas and inspiration.If it were in my budget I would mix high and low. I just enjoy looking at pretty things and if they are not in my budget I don’t enjoy it any less. Thanks for the link to Zentique I really loved their things.
Well I wake up at night dreaming about furniture,wood,metal,paint, pieces on the road and pieces I could never afford!!!! Keep Dreaming my lovely, You are awesome;)
I love your Blog and your tutorials!!! I just purchased my first Annie Sloan Paint ( French Linen ) , brushes, and some other necessities!! I painted an old, ugly entertainment center and it looks GREAT!! Keep Blogging and Teaching!! Love from Jamie in Alabama!! 🙂
I’m new to Chalk Painting! I painted my first piece today!! It’s a media cabinet that I painted French Linen! Thanks to your Blogs and Tutorials, I did GREAT!!! Keep up the good work!!
I just found your blog last night actually and I was up half the night watching your tutorials. I did my first chalk painting yesterday! I made my old time dresser into my tv stand using Coco then edging the piece with Cream and wiping a bit of it off after applying the cream then using the dark wax. I was so shocked with how it came out that I am obsessed with doing more lol. Thanks for the great tips and helpful tutorials!! I love your work and will keep following!!!
Christen,
I remember when you first blogged about that piece. It made me smile at your excitement and I loved that you had earned enough to buy something that you had wanted so much. Thank you for continuing to bring us beauty at many levels and price points. And never feel ashamed for loving what you love.
Marian
I also look at photos of things I love. I use them as guides when I shop at flea markets, antique shops, yard sales and thrift stores. Your work is lovely and inspiring. I love your Rachel Ashwell chaise!
Christen,
Why would anyone dream small? I know I don’t have the money to buy every thing I want and sometimes a budget makes the choices easier. If you find your “dream” item at a garage sale or resale shop all the better. Sometimes the story is the best part.
rick
ps I have expensive taste but modest budget, that’s OK