Six Months Old and Going Glam

Last November, Collected Home & Event Styling was born  - a bouncing, burgeoning bundle of creativity. Six months in, we're right in the "sweet spot" of infancy....smiling a lot... sleeping through most nights.  People tell us our personality is really starting to shine. We're also cutting teeth - which means we have the occasional freak-out. But mostly, we're like the arm-flapping, drool-happy babies you see in a Gerber commercial. And we looooove to play. Especially with accessories.

There are a katrillion reasons we love playing with accessories. A few key accessories can deliver instant, style and interest, transforming a tired room into a fresh, of-the-moment space. Because they generally don't (have to) require a huge financial commitment, they give us a safe place to nod at trends and play with color, pattern and texture. This is good news for us fickle decorating types.

At the moment, we're loving Glam.  We're not talking about fussy, over-the-top, Lady Gaga GLAM. We're talking comfortable, everyday glam... special, but not overdone. A little here, a little  there. The idea is to make your room twinkle, with little bits of shiny embellishments.

So what if you're not the "decorating type" but your home desperately needs a little flair? Gotcha covered. Today we're sharing a few of our favorite GLAM accessories so you can go a little GLAM too...

1. Mirrors.  Mirrors provide instant glam and are brilliant for reflecting light and creating size and space illusions. Look for mirrors in interesting shapes, sizes and finishes. Try a collage of several small mirrors to make a statement. Think beyond the wall. Mirrors can double as a great table-top trays or as a backdrop on a shelf.

2.  Lamps and Lighting.  Lighting is the key to creating ambiance and giving your home a warm, cozy feel, but also functions as the perfect GLAMMY accessory. Look for lamps with crystal or mercury glass bases...and chandeliers with crystals.  Think beyond plugged-in fixtures, too.  Lanterns and candles make great accessories - and there are endless varieties, shapes and sizes. Plus, everybody looks good in candlelight. Just saying.

3. Mercury Glass.   Mercury glass (or silvered glass) was once called poor man's silver, but today it's one of the hottest trends in home decor. Whether you shop at Horchow or HomeGoods, you'll see mercury glass shining on the shelves in many forms. Look for mercury glass vases, lamps, urns or candlesticks.

If you're a DIYer (or even if you're not), you can easily make your own Mercury Glass.. Here's a link to a fantastic Faux Mercury Glass Tutorial. Really, it's easy. Just don't try to use anything other than the Krylon Looking Glass Paint...it won't work.
 

4. Metallic Throw Pillows. Pillows truly warrant their own post (note to self), but since we're talking glam, we'll (try) to stay focused. Let's be honest... a metallic or sequined pillow does not exactly scream "come lounge with me" - or "put your head here."  But that's not the purpose of a sparkly pillow, plus, pillows don't talk, silly. She's simply there to shimmer and shine. Look for pillows with metallic weaves or beading. One or two will do the trick when mixed with a few other softer, lux fabrics.


5. Bottles and Decanters.  Obsessed with these. Crystal, mercury glass or recycled wine bottles. Gorgeous in a grouping or on a tray. We've scored a few crystal decanters while thrifting here and there but we've had the most fun decorating our own bottles.

Everybody needs a little GLAM...and even though we're only six months old, we know what we're talking about.

Now, go grab yourself some sparkle, Collected Society.

xoxo

Thrifty Thursday: Planter Revival

Hey Y'all! It's Thrifty Thursday!

I have been dying to try that out. Y'all that is. I have a serious case of Southern accent envy. I have my own special blend of Tennessee-Texas-Louisiana-Yankee speak and when I pull it out -  it drives my family plum crazy. I reckon if I don't stop, they're gonna give me a swift-kick-boot in the ree-ah.  Bein' it's Thrifty Thursday, I best be gittin' down to business and sharin' some thrifty pie with y'all. Okaaaaaay.  I'll stop.

About four years ago, the search to find two perfect planters for my entryway finally came to an end. It was a lengthy search that was beginning to seem impossible.  But then...one day...I spotted them at Costco.  It was love at first sight - and the price was right.

This is what they looked like in their hay day...tall dark and handsome.

After a few years of weathering hot summers, plenty of watering and BEYOND FRIGID winter temperatures (yep, I'm still bitter), they looked like this...

The paint was peeling and losing it's luster. They had seen better days and were starting to shame everyone around them. But, I remembered when we first met...that perfect moment when I knew my search was over...  I just couldn't let them go.  Plus, buying new planters was not in the budget. So, I got thrifty, and went to work.

First, I shuffled on over to Home Depot for some Rustoleum Flat Gray Primer and Metallic Oil Rubbed Bronze.

I'm not always a rule follower and sometimes skip the priming step.  But since these are for outdoor use and have to stand up to the elements, I decided to do it right. After a light sanding to smooth the peeling paint, I applied one coat of primer.  Then, they looked like this...

After letting the primer dry (about 30 minutes), I moved on to fun part. I let the Oil Rubbed Bronze loose on these babies and they started to perk up instantly. Two coats later, they were looking migh-ty fine. Handsome as ever and ready to take on the ladies.

For less than $12, these planters have a new lease on life and the ladies seem very happy... all tucked in and ready to grow.

Now, this Yankee is fixin' to find a few more things that need a little love and oil rubbed bronze. Might I suggest you do the same.... 

Happy Thrifty Thursday, y'all!

Footloose and Fancy Flea: 7 Tips for Flea Market Success

We're Midwesterners, so to say we've welcomed Spring this year, is a smiiiiiiiiidge of an understatement.  Like a loyal pooch reunited with its long, lost master...we've jumped into Spring's arms, licked her face, whimpered with joy and made sure she knows how much we love her.

You heard us Mother Nature. We've never been more excited for yard-work, wasp-stings, dandelions and thunderstorms. Bring on the 4 am bird-choir and crickets chirping in the night.  We'll take it all... because with these signs of Spring comes the kind of road rambling, garage sale-ing, flea market-ing freedom we've been craving.  We are feeling Footloose and Fancy FLEA, people!!! Can we get an AMEN?!?!

Just so happens we're kicking off FLEA MARKET season with a sweet sale this weekend, May 3rd and 4th. YAY! It's the Kicks on 66 Sale - and we'll be cruising 90 miles of Route 66, stopping at Flea Markets from Joliet, IL to Towanda, IL. For more information about this sale, visit the  KICKS ON 66 SALE website. Follow us on Facebook and/or Twitter because we'll be posting treasures as they're discovered! If you see something you like, let us know, and we will be happy to reserve it for you.

Also, don't miss Urban Farmgirl's Main Street Market, next weekend, May 10th in Rockford, IL. This market is loaded with vintage and pretty things from over 50 vendors. We're so excited to see what they have in store!

Flea Markets are heaps of fun and a super opportunity to find those one-of-a-kind treasures that bring character to your home or space. Remember, you don't have to have a vintage "themed" room or space to bring in a few vintage pieces or artifacts. Forget about a one-toned look that feels old and one-dimensional... Collected style is about blending the old with the new to add character and interest to your space - and to help tell your story.

Whether you're new to Fleas or an experienced Flea Marketer  here are 7 TIPS for making the most of your Flea Market experience:

1. Arrive early, stay late.  It's true, the early bird gets the worm -  but bargains are often found at the end of the day.

2. Be prepared with necessities.

• Bring your tape measure - and know the measurements of spaces you're trying to fill. 
• Bring a rolling cart or sturdy over-the-shoulder bag for hauling your wares. 
• Pack an umbrella (this usually guarantees sunshine!).  
• Charge that smart phone! You may need it to look up comparable prices or brand names of larger vintage pieces you're considering. Plus use it to take pics, store measurements, etc.

3. Cash is king. Cash offer gets the best deals so make sure you have plenty.

4. Make an offer. Always ask the vendor for their best price but know that cash offers and bundled offers (purchasing more than one item from that vendor) usually yield better deals.

5. Every piece has a story. Ask the vendor about the item(s) you're buying. Know where it came from, how it was used, etc - this is the fun part about collecting treasures!

6. Inspect your items before buying.  Check table legs for sturdiness,  make sure lamps work, etc.  There are no returns once you get your item home...

7. Use your imagination. Remember that a gorgeous piece of furniture might be hiding behind mistreated exterior. If she has good lines and great bones, rescue her! A can of paint works wonders. 

Gosh. Spring... flea markets... garage sales? Sigh. Our tails are reaaaally wagging, now. 

Remember to post your fabulous flea market finds on our Facebook Page! We can't wait to see what you find.


xoxo






















 

Breaking Rules and a Thrifty Wall Makeover

If you've heard us say it once, you've heard it a thousand times. Never underestimate the power of a good thrifting adventure.  If you're one of those people who's all "Suuuuure, thrift stores are full of treasures, but I never find them...." or  "Ewww, thrift stores are full of useless junk ..." you should definitely keep reading.

A few weeks ago, we were called upon by a darling client (DC) - who asked us to help her finish a project that had been weighing her down for quite some time:  Hanging family pictures on the dreaded stairway walls. 

A self-proclaimed Type A, our DC had avoided the project many reasons - including her uncertainty around "the rules" attached to mixing color photos with black and white, candid shots with portraits, wood toned frames with metallic frames, etc. She also wanted to share her family's story - their love of the outdoors, history, teaching, their Irish heritage - but she was unsure how to blend it all together to create a look and style that made sense. She enlisted us to help her break the rules, rescue her from wall paralysis, and create the collected style she envisioned but couldn't achieve on her own.

At the in-home consultation, we talked our DC into giving us access to her decorative accessory graveyard treasure trove (you know you have one - maybe a dried floral arrangement or two, some bright, gold candlesticks, a few empty picture frames maybe?).  We sifted through her trove, uncovered a few gems, then set out to hunt and gather for more goodies that would help tell their story.

First stop? A thrift store, of course, because that's what this blog post is all about. And then... a beautiful thing happened called - we found a fantastic, storytelling, character-infusing collection of accessories, artifacts and frames for under $70.  Swear. Here's the list:

1.  A nature-inspired, framed, original oil painting
2.  A vintage mirror
3.  Framed Irish blessing
4.  A natural wicker vase
5.  A small ceramic vase
6.  An iron bird's nest
7.  A framed cross
8.  2 vintage, copper candlesticks with glass flutes
9.  5 natural, wood picture frames
10.  3 brushed metal picture frames  

With plenty of budget to spare, we purchased a few new items to complete the stairwell gallery wall space plus, spruce up the base of the stairway. We added a pair of gold candle sconces, some dried florals, a homey burlap wall hanging, a chalkboard sign and a collection of U's.  Our DC explained an apparent letter U maker conspiracy that makes finding a U equal to finding gold - so we snatched up every one we could find and created a U collage! Take that letter U makers! For all you letter U seekers, we found a few more at Hobby Lobby, one of which we Modpodged with book pages. Our favorite is this clever, little U created from a book...

 

Aren't they fantastic?! You can buy book letters here!

Next, with a quick trip to our DCs village office, we were able to snag a village map which we aged to perfection (dark wax is the bomb), honoring her request to represent their strong ties to the community in which they live. 

Our DC's treasure trove produced a few good finds as well - a fun Irish sign and a couple of metallic frames. We also rescued a decorative urn which was hidden beneath dated greens. After pulling those babies out, she was good as new! Tucked away in the sitting room cabinet, we found a pair of vintage books that we placed on a shelf. Unbeknownst to us, they were our DCs Grandfather's books from long ago. She was touched to see them displayed and we were reminded how much we love what we do.

We threw all of this collected deliciousness into a pot, seasoned it with a little craftiness and rule-breaking know-how... and voila!

A thrifty, wall makeover that made our DC and her family feel right at home - while we had fun breaking the rules!

We leave you with this, Collected Society....

xoxo

When Flea Market Cravings Strike

Just 4 months, 7 snowstorms and 5ish or so pounds ago, we made our last trip to our favorite outdoor flea market. Like squirrels gathering nuts for the long winter months, we stuffed our SUVs full of delicious treasures in hopes that our last flea-market feast would feed our junk-loving, gypsy souls til Spring.

The flea market gods were shining down on us that brisk October morning....and nuts were plentiful.

 With the exception of the two perfect vintage dress forms we missed out on  - and nearly got run over for -  while chasing down one very lucky squirrel who spotted them before we did...it was a good haul. Apparently, when a lucky squirrel is being chased by two hungry squirrels offering to buy his dress form, he can't hear very well. (In hindsight, we can see how chasing that lucky squirrel may have made him cling more tightly to his nuts).

At any rate, we did gather some goodies that day -  a great leathery trunk and a sweet, old suitcase that smelled like chicken and waffles. A gloriously old, arched window frame, a few chandelier crystals and a wooden birdcage. A dozen or so cherub floral picks and a stack of aged sheet music. We added our wares to the stash we'd been stockpiling all season. Our supply was abundant and our hearts were overflowing with gratitude. We were officially prepared for long wintry months with nary a flea market or garage sale in sight.

 

But that was one Polar Vortex ago. 

With frigid temperatures surrounding us for months, our supplies are dwindling and we are beginning to weaken. 

We have a mean craving for a heaping helping of Kane County Flea Market with a side of neighborhood garage sale. 

With more freaking cold weather in the forecast for another month, flea markets and garage sales cannot and will not feed us. 

Simply put, we need more nuts.

Thankfully, we have a plan. 

It's called Thrift Shopping. Indoors.

 Happy Thrifty Thursday, all!  Now, go get some nuts! 

P.S.  Kane County runs the first weekend of every month, March-December.

Note: Next week, we'll share some of our favorite thrift shop finds. See you then!

What Matthew McConaughey Knows About Decorating

Unless you're our long, lost friend, Paige, who attends the Oscar's nearly every year with Julia Roberts (true story), there's a good chance you'd agree that most Oscar ceremonies are ceremoniously boring. 

Sorry Oscar, but outside of  playing Where's Waldo with our friend Paige, we've just never been into you. Until...last Sunday night, when this little thing happened called Matthew McConaughey won Best Actor for his role in Dallas Buyers Club.  Then? We were in. Like, all in.  We stopped pinning and posting, put down our iPads and we gawked watched. Because the only thing that can trump a perfectly good Sunday night of cruising house porn on Pinterest while Ellen's serving pizza in the background, is Matthew McConaughey in a tux. (Please don't judge, we're creative souls and we need our visual stim). ;)

We won't lie... he had us at handsome. But when he spoke? Wow. Wowwy, wow, wow. His words were drizzled in the perfect Southern drawl. And he spoke with such truth. Such wisdom. Such soul. 

And do you know what he said to us??? He said, "Listen ladies of Collected Home & Event Styling"

 "...we all need something to look up to, something to look forward to...and someone to chase."

For real. That's what he said to us. Because he knows we Collected gals are chasing our dream. He's been there. He knows it's not easy.  He knows it's all going to be worth it. He gets it.

Oh, Matthew McConaughey. We didn't think we could love you more. But we do. And that's alright, alright, alright with us.