Slumber Sage

Fashion Friday: Packing For Spring Break

2026-04-03T15:42:57-00:00

In a couple weeks we will be heading down to Naples for spring break. A quick and easy getaway (excited to stay at the new Four Seasons there) with the kids to get some sun and sand. Super low pressure, which is what I need in a vacation right now. Here are some things I either AM packing (or am actively thinking about buying to pack) for this trip. A mix of dressy, casual and easy to mix pieces. Shop everything HERE, and check out my resort saves as well for a bigger selection.

Of note- that cute zebra bikini- it’s from Aerie which is all 30% off right now! I looooove their sweats too and am grabbing a couple more sets for spring.

We’re Hiring!

2026-04-02T14:01:11-00:00

We are actively looking for an experienced, senior level residential interior designer to join the EGD team! Please share with anyone that may be a good fit or see how to apply below!

Interior Designer

Full-Time | In-Person | Wellesley, MA

About the Role

Erin Gates Design is looking for an experienced Interior Designer to join our collaborative, energetic team. We take our work seriously and our culture lightly—and we’re looking for someone who does the same.

In this role, you’ll lead high-end residential design projects from initial concept through final installation. You’ll own spatial planning, material and finish selections, FF&E specifications, and construction documentation—while partnering closely with the principal designer, fellow lead designers, and our project management team to deliver an exceptional experience for every client.

This is a hands-on, client-facing position. You’ll manage relationships directly, keep projects on schedule and within budget, and bring thoughtful design leadership to each engagement.

What You’ll Do

Lead residential design projects end to end, from programming and schematic design through procurement and installation.
Develop and present spatial plans, elevations, material palettes, and FF&E packages to clients.
Prepare and coordinate construction documentation with architects, contractors, and trade partners.
Manage project timelines, budgets, and vendor relationships to ensure seamless delivery.
Build and maintain strong client relationships, serving as the primary design point of contact.
Collaborate daily with the principal designer and project management staff to align on design direction and project status.
Travel to job sites for meetings, walkthroughs, photoshoots and installations (reliable vehicle required).

What We’re Looking For

5–8 years of experience as a designer or senior designer at a residential interior design firm.
Strong proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Excel, and Studio Designer (or equivalent project management software).
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills—this role involves significant face-to-face interaction with clients, builders, and installers.
A sharp eye for design with the ability to bring fresh perspectives while working within the Erin Gates Design aesthetic.
Proven project management and organizational skills, with comfort managing multiple projects simultaneously.
A collaborative mindset—you thrive in a team environment and enjoy the energy of working alongside talented colleagues in the studio.
A reliable vehicle for travel to site meetings. Occasional overnight or long-distance travel may be required.

A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Interior Design or Interior Architecture is a plus, but not required. We care most about your portfolio, your experience, and how you work.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
Medical, dental, and disability insurance.
Paid vacation and holidays.
Work-from-home Fridays.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume, a cover letter, and a portfolio or work samples to: info@eringatesdesign.com

Thank you!!!

Introducing: The Rivet Mirror

2026-03-18T19:49:28-00:00

Excited to share that a new mirror from my collection with Cooper Classics is now available!

The Rivet Wall Mirror has been years in the making – from the first sketches I shared with the Cooper Classics team, I knew I wanted a Second Empire or Neoclassical style wall mirror with rivets. I have probably hundreds of images of vintage and antique mirrors saved, and the Rivet is a combination of a few of my favorites, featuring a gilt gold frame, raised rivets and box/outset corners. Looking back at some of the original inspiration and sketches, it’s fun to see how it’s evolved.

The Rivet is so adaptable – fits with many different styles, from traditional to modern, and can go anywhere.

The Rivet Mirror now available on Gates & Co., One Kings Lane, Shades of Light, and other retailers.

Easter Tabletop Ideas

2026-03-16T19:55:49-00:00

Sharing four tabletop ideas for any/all of your springtime celebrations! Click here to shop all of my picks!

Table 1: So in love with this tablecloth, which would be great paired with classic cabbage dinnerware and monogram napkins (that look super fancy, but are from Etsy!). Use potted plants as a centerpiece so you can reuse them!

Table 2: So much good cabbage dinnerware in pink and white at Target (I saw it last week, have both in my cart)! Salad plates, wine glasses and napkins are all Target, paired with higher end dinner plates and tablecloth for a high/low mix. Swap in rechargeable mini lamps instead of candles.

Table 3: Starting with a great vintage-inspired tablecloth by Heidi Caillier that I want very badly. Paired with our horn vase and woven charger for a grounding, earthy accent. Add in splatterware to keep it casual and also these Gnori look plates that are MELAMINE!

Table 4: This blockprint tablecloth from Etsy is a stunner. Paired with brown and blue accents and natural materials, as well as a potted fern centerpiece make it springy but also rich.

Fashion Friday: Easter Outfits for Kids

2026-03-13T16:58:58-00:00

Admittedly this is HEAVY on the little girl stuff. Henry is at a stage where he will not let me dress him (except for maybe once in a blue moon, if I’m lucky). Emma is right now ALL about super girly stuff and she also has strong feelings about what she wears. In fact, when I brought down some clothes for her to wear the other day she said, with an eye roll “well you shouldn’t have done that” and marched up to her room to find a new (insane) outfit of her own choosing.

All this to say, these are all wishful thinking items. Perhaps I can wrangle Emma into one of these adorable dresses- fingers crossed. Here’s to hoping your kids are a little more pliable!

You can find all of these clothing links here (along with some outfits for you as well!) The little easter gift links are here (I’ll be doing a tabletop post next week, but you can get a sneak peek of what I’m saving!)

Fashion Friday: CBK Inspired Classic Dressing

2026-03-06T18:11:09-00:00

Like many of you, I have been watching Love Story, for better or worse. Being 46, I remember when these two gorgeous humans were alive and well, and the tragedy that came with their story. I too was absolutely enamored with Carolyn’s simple wedding dress and laid back beauty. Since the show came out I’ve seen TONS of CBK inspired posts, but I am not here to recreate her outfits or try to copy her look. Her look was not a product of labels and stylists, it was just HER. And moreover, her obvious love of classic dressing. There is nothing earth shattering about Carolyn’s style other than, she clearly despised trends or trying to dress like anyone other than herself. And I think that alone is what everyone is and was drawn to.

In the age of influencer culture and our lives being so produced for online consumption, I feel like such a way of dressing has gone by the wayside. Instead of good ol’ classics, we’re inundated with so much NEWNESS daily- and the constant promotion of ways (and products) to recreate ourselves, stand out, be noticed. I too am a victim of this- feeling like I need to dress BOLDER, make more of a statement or advertise my uniqueness when in reality, I’m far happier in what may seem to be “boring” outfits. And I think the attention being cast back on Carolyn feels a bhit like permission to chill out a little, maybe? Look how simply she dressed and she was one of the most lauded fashion inspirations in decades. No way would she have been caught dead with a “Boatkin” or a head to toe look of high fashion labels. And either way is ok, but the focus on simplicity and quality is refreshing right now, at least to me.

So here are some good old classics that will never go out of style and get you through many decades of dressing… and not all wildly expensive, either. Shop all links shown HERE (I added some extras too!)

Vermont Trip Recommendations

2026-02-25T19:07:20-00:00

So many of you asked me to recap my recent week in Woodstock, VT for you so here I am! Doing just that! I absolutely need to do a visitors guide to Boston as well, as I’m often asked for thoughts on best places to stay and eat, so I promise sometime this spring I will do that as well.

For about 20 years my family had a house in Plymouth, VT which is about 15 minutes from Woodstock. So we would frequent downtown Woodstock ALL the time- my Dad was particularly in love with the town and it’s architecture and specifically the Woodstock Inn. So I love going up there for weekends often, it’s such a happy, friendly, relaxed place with great food, people and things to do. We hope to buy a home there in the near future (one we can also rent out!)

STAY:

As I said, we’ve only stayed at The Woodstock Inn because it has everything. Perfect location, two restaurants, a great spa, amazing access to the Woodstock Athletic Club & Country Club (gym, tennis, indoor pool, cross country skiing, golf etc), a pool in the summer and charming lobby. Highly recommend.

In nearby Barnard is Twin Farms, I DREAM of staying there in one of their treehouses!!! It is UBER luxurious, very expensive and simply perfect (I’m told by my friends who have gone!)

This past trip we rented an Vrbo called Spruce Top– it was amazing, perfectly appointed and I highly recommend for a family trip or perhaps a few couples or girls weekend. I want to go back in the fall!

SHOP:

Woody’s Mercantile– the BEST, cutest home store! A must go- the ladies who run the store are hilarious and lovely!

Farmhouse Pottery– a fun place to visit and watch them make pottery, as well as shop- my most favorite coffee mugs, match strikes and dog bowls are from there!

Unicorn- a silly gift and joke shop that has the FUNNIEST greeting cards, gifts for kids and has been an institution since I was little.

Elevation Clothing– Awesome selection of outdoor clothing for men and women.

Echo Market– such a “Vermont-y” shop of clean beauty essentials and wellness focused items.

F. H. Gillingham & Sons– an old school general store- grab wine, syrup, a sweatshirt, a cutting board…. anything!

B.F. Southgate– my sneaky favorite antiques shop up there- last time I scored some seriously awesome art.

Simon Pearce– The obvious glassware, but you can snag seconds and also watch them blow glass! See below too, as it’s a great place to dine!

VISIT:

Billings Farm & Rockefeller Estate– Such a lovely spot in the fall and summer- and there are horse drawn sleigh rides in the winter. The Marsh Rockefeller park and grounds are amazing for hiking and checking out gorgeous buildings.

Quechee Gorge- Kind of a quick stop/ drive by but quite a stunning natural wonder!

Saskadena Six– A super charming small skiing area close to Woodstock- we loved our two days here as the kids are learning but there were still runs I had a lot of fun doing! And good food and drinks by the firepit.

Killington & Pico– Larger mountains for the more serious skiiers. Killington has a great tubing park too!

DINE & DRINK:

Au Comptoir– the CUTEST, COOLEST BAR IN THE WORLD. Go, but be prepared to wait to get in as it’s teeny tiny but so worth it! Sit outside by the firepits in the meantime.

Ransom Tavern– At the Kendron Valley Inn, a wood fired pizza spot with a great bar and locals vibe. We loved it!

Oakes & Evelyn- We had to cancel our reservation here because of a snowstorm but all the locals raved. Apparently also has a great breakfast.

Red Rooster– At the Woodstock Inn- not mind blowing food, but decent and good for big groups and chilling in the lobby by the fire after.

Mont Vert Cafe– great in town coffee and sandwich shop. Always packed.

The Farmer and the Bell– OMG- the DONUTS here. They may be a top 5 favorite food now. I cannot even explain, just GO. The branding and design is also just ADORABLE.

Sante– we had an amazing lunch here- also a great wine bar!

Simon Pearce– Try to snag one of the tables overlooking the waterfall- great food, great views, plus shopping. And now a separate bar too!

Worthy Kitchen– Have not been, but hear raves reviews.

Hope this is helpful!!!!

Spring Things

2026-02-12T17:45:23-00:00

A year round sunroom we designed filled with woven textures and pale blues. Photo by Kirsten Francis.

It’s not even close to spring but I am already itching to freshen things up. This time of year really can be a drag – the dirty snow, grey skies, cold temps… but spring WILL come and since the retail cycle is so nuts, all the spring stuff is OUT already!

Some faves I’ve saved recently- lots of rattan/wicker, pale blues and warm neutrals. Feels fresh but grounded. ALL LINKS HERE.

Fashion Friday: Early Resort Picks

2026-02-06T13:18:23-00:00

I’m not going anywhere warm until April break, but I’ve already gotten a couple warm weather pieces as a method of giving me some hope in this cold, bleak world… (was that too dark?) Anyways, I’ve been saving the resort items I’ve been loving and rounded up a few for you today – all things embroidery, shells and woven textures. Oh, and studded sandals are gonna be huge, mark my word. I maaaaaaay have treated myself to this epic pair one day when I had the shoppies while simultaneously feeling real down about things and I know they will be my most worn pair. Comfy AND cool.

SHOP EVERYTHING BELOW HERE.

Happy weekend- GO PATS!!!!

My Oscar Dress Choices

2026-02-04T16:36:14-00:00

I’m starting to see some great red carpet dresses on IG and recent runway shows, and had a bunch of screen shots saved on my phone, so I thought “Why don’t I just do a post about what I’d want some of the actress nominees to wear?” I had a LOT of fun pulling these looks together! Without further ado…

Rose Byrne in this amazing Monique Lhuillier I am obsessed with. I couldn’t decide on Elle Fanning – I love the Tiffany high jewelry necklace of the second outfit (Valentino dress – obviously with NO red tights or shawl), but the first dress better (also Valentino).

For Teyana Taylor I LOOOVE the idea of her in a leopard print like this Elie Saab (could leave the shawl and just do this insane Louis Vuitton bib necklace!) or this drapey beaded Elie Saab. For Kate Hudson, I think she looks amazing in dressed up boho looks, so either of these Elie Saab gowns would be BANANAS. For Emma Stone I could SO see her in this Jenny Packham jeweled sheath dress with short sleeves (her short hair would look perfect). But I also could see her go full femme in this incredible Monique Lhuillier!

I think this Valentino (NO GLOVES!) would be SO SO good on Jessie Buckley, especially with turquoise sculptural earrings. And this black and cream ballgown by Carolina Herrera would look so striking with a red lip and big diamond earrings. I am fully obsessed with this look for Amy Madigan (again, Monique Lhullier)- I love the sheath style with the modern tunic style embellishments. Add a really amazing statement cuff and BOOM!

Vintage Rug Roundup

2026-02-03T18:07:27-00:00

I’m asked about this rug in my bedroom A LOT – it’s a vintage find from a local showroom. Photo by Kirsten Francis.

I get the most questions from you guys about two types of rugs: very simple broadlooms and vintage sourced ones. 99% of the time it’s almost always one of those two, more the latter. We source a TON of antique and vintage rugs for our projects- I’m not sure I’ve done a project without at least one! And while many come from rug dealers and showrooms, lots come from Etsy too! I just snagged a new runner for my kitchen on Etsy for $75! Vintage runners and rugs are workhorses- they hide traffic, stains and really are tough while looking delicate.

So here are some great finds (all links and even more rugs all HERE) from Etsy!

New Dudley Stephens Collab!

2026-01-29T15:10:00-00:00

Part 2 from our collaboration with Dudley Stephens is now live! This French Terry Park Slope (the OG Dudley Stephens silhouette but in a light sweatshirt material) in black with camel stripes is an instant closet staple. Can be dressed up or down, is comfy and cozy but not too heavy – I just love it!

Also, we hear you on the leopard print Finlay pullover – we are hoping to restock later this year and even introduce a few tweaks to the designs – hope to have more to share on that soon! In the meantime, it looks like there are a few of the Kids Wellesley Pullover left!

Can you EVEN??

Photos by Sarah Winchester.

Making Small (Happy!) Updates to Your Home

2026-01-27T21:33:37-00:00

When times are heavy, we deserve little treats wherever we can spare the time or money – be it a nice walk or a new candle. In an effort to urge you to be kind with yourself, here are few small ways to boost your mood within your home.

1. (the rug I have in my fam room) // 2. // 3. // 4. // 5. (amazing source!) // 6. // 7. // 8. // 9.

10. // 11. // 12. // 13. // 14. // 15. plate & mug

16. // 17. // 18. // 19. // 20. // 21. // 22. // 23. // 24. // 25. // 26.

I hope these little ideas help you find some joy!

XO,

Erin

Under the Influence in America

2026-01-26T21:49:25-00:00

I barely even know how to start writing this post- I have so many things that I’ve been ruminating on and considering in the past 36 hours. One thing that is crystal clear to me though is that we are at a pivotal moment in American history. It’s been a long time coming (I cannot type that without singing it like Taylor), but I do think we are at that crossroads where if we don’t DO something, we are in peril as a country. Hell, as humans! And what’s required in this moment is not passive participation and silent head nodding while others do the work. It’s active engagement, in big or small ways, letting the world know where you stand regarding human decency and actual democracy.

And that responsibly does fall double on anyone with a platform, like it or not. And while I personally have always felt the responsibility to speak up on issues that matter to me, it’s been a little bit lonely- especially in the world of design and lifestyle. I get it, it’s easier and way more profitable to stay silent. To not “get political” and potentially lose followers or clients- and to a degree, sure, I can comprehend that. A lot depends on your geographic location, employment, safety concerns, current status as a citizen, etc. I recognize that not everyone can speak freely, a privilege I do cherish. And obviously none of us are politicians, nor do we want to be (at least I certainly don’t)- so smaller, local or less scary issues perhaps have not felt like waters you’ve wanted to wade into. Or maybe even bigger ones. Keep things pretty, keep them calm. Preserve professional boundaries and your sense of “peace”. I get it. I truly do.

But this is different. This is a very critical, obvious time where as an INFLUENCER who shares with groups of people your advice, direction and guidance you do have a responsibility to be clear about your feelings about the state of the country right now. I think the adage to never mix “politics” with business is getting rustier and dustier by the minute. If we stop being so scared of “breaking the rules” and speaking up together, that volume could move mountains. This is the first time I’ve ever made such a broad statement, but I am ten toes down on this one. After consuming all the videos, evidence and undeniable gaslighting by the most powerful people in the government, maybe the world, it feels like a really evil and frankly, idiotic, plot to a horror film. I saw one person I follow, whom I’ve liked following for years, say in a really vexing series of posts “I mean, is there really a right side here??”

YES. Abso-fucking-lutely yes, there is a RIGHT SIDE. And I want to know if you’re on it.

And, by the way, the sides aren’t democrat versus republican- no, no-it’s right versus wrong. It’s morality versus depravity. It’s state sanctioned murder versus due process. Yes ma’am, there is a very, very clear right side to this issue facing us. The questions like- are we going to become a fascist state where the government is allowed to execute citizens in broad daylight? Arrest and detain people with no warrants? Terrorize communities with masked men whose whole missions is to instill fear? I hope to God not. I don’t believe any of those things are proud of tenets any American political party I’m aware of.

And if you ARE a Republican, saying “hey, I do not support this” does not instantaneously make you a liberal either, it makes you a compassionate human who cares about the future of America. Maybe you feel strongly about other Republican values, you can still denounce the murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Again, this is not a political thing, this is a humanity thing.

This ask heard loud in the past 24 hours by followers and fans to “use your voice” does NOT mean everyone needs to post multiple times, or write verbose missives like this- not every influencer knows what to say, feels like sharing a lot, enjoys writing or speaking to the camera. But there are plenty of graphics and statements you CAN repost to at least signal your acknowledgement and awareness of what’s going on in America. Posting content as usual, like nothing is going on (to me) feels at best tone deaf and worst grossly privileged. No one is asking you to change who you are or what you share day to day, but they are asking for acknowledgment that you too are scared, angry and concerned about where we are as a country. Show some true humanity instead of perfectly curated outfits and homes. Show that you see it. Feel it. GET IT.

And look, I understand that this is how many people make a living and the economic impact is important. Me too. And I also have several employees that count on me to provide for them, overhead to pay and obligations to fulfill. But I am also, and most importantly, a mother. And I have an obligation to stand up against real evil and model for them how, when and why to do that. I want to be able to tell them when this happened that I did not sit idly by and stay silent because it was safer and “less controversial.” I also want to know it for myself.

I wish NONE of us had to “get political”, trust me. I would so much rather be sharing my favorite winter coats and best paint colors to use on millwork. I wish I could just send my girlfriends 18 stupid memes of raccoons in a row instead of watching clips of people being shot in the face over and over and then being told not to believe my own eyes by the president. I wish we could all live in the pretty, curated bubble projected by our socials- but we can’t. Not if we want our children to grow up in a fair, just and thriving society.

That desire my friends, is vastly more important than any number of followers. We can do two things at once- be beacons of beauty AND truth. Share lots of wonderfully fun and entertaining content while at the same time acknowledging the deep wounds we are experiencing in our culture. It only gives you more credibility and influence in the end, to show who you are behind the pretty pictures, to show there is heart and depth to you outside of the frame.

Be safe, be brave, be loud-

Erin

Valentines Day Edit!

2026-01-22T18:00:38-00:00

I don’t know about you, but I need some happy, cheerful stuff to look at right now. And also fill my various shopping carts with, because that is how I am dealing with the downfall of America… Since nothing is happier than pink, red, hearts and flowers, I had to pull together some Valentines Day finds. I feel like I may dive into Vday this year unlike any prior years because I MUST HAVE SOME JOY.

You can find all the links (and more) HERE.

Decorating A Mantel

2026-01-21T16:14:01-00:00

Several of you asked for tips on how to decorate a mantel when it’s NOT holiday season, so I pulled together examples with objects that work well for three different types of installations – under a TV, with a mirror and with art. Also – some great fireplace screens and tool sets, since those really add a nice layer (in my living room above I used this screen and this tool set).

For a mantel with a mirror above (I typically place mirrors above if there is statement art elsewhere in the room, as my living room above has). If it’s a larger square or rectangular mirror, I do like to lean a smaller art piece against it and then layer a variety of objects of different heights – candlesticks, small sculptural objects, candles, etc. If the fireplace is non-working or you’re styling it in the summertime, I love a big stack of birch logs (not a big fan of candelabras in fireplaces myself…)

SHOP ALL ACCESSORIES HERE

I also like to layer objects on mantels with large art above – sometimes with a smaller piece in a different medium (a sketch or photograph if the large art is a painting, for example). Sconces are always preferred, if possible (some fabulous cordless ones here if you can’t or don’t want to wire for them). I also love a little greenery, but understand if you can’t keep things alive (me neither), so I included some great faux greenery items like this papier mache flower.

For a mantel under a TV, your decor is limited to the width of your mantel versus the width of the TV – you do not want object cluttering your view of the screen. Some slim tapers and low objects are a good idea if you have the space. You can see in my family room below, I only have a couple small things to add a little interest, but nothing major, which would feel forced.

Fashion Friday: Statement Plaid Coats

2026-01-16T16:41:57-00:00

So many of you asked for a link to the bold plaid coat I was wearing on Instagram this week- and while mine is two years old and no longer available, I am a huge proponent of the statement coat- especially here where it’s all you see of your outfit most days in the winter! So I found a bunch a great plaid statement coats like mine to share today! Click eahc image for the link!

Roundup: Great Retail Sconces

2026-01-15T16:48:40-00:00

Sconces are a fabulous way to add illumination and personality to walls – and not every option needs to come from a trade-only designer source. In fact, I’ve found some truly amazing options on retail sites recently and wanted to round up options – some as low as $70! I love that even retail outlets are personalizing sconces with patterned shades straight out of the box! Of course you can also order custom shades on sites like Etsy (shop 1, shop 2), and sources like Pooky (which also sells amazing rechargeable sconces you don’t have to hardwire) have a ton of options to choose from to pair with their sconces.

Shop all these sconces (and more) HERE:

If you find roundups like this helpful, please leave a comment with other items you’d love to see!

Rethinking Yellow.

2026-01-06T17:34:08-00:00

Admittedly I have NOT designed many yellow rooms in my career – it’s just never been my favorite color historically (yellow paint being one of the hardest colors to get right in my book). The guest suite above was the most yellow space I have photographed I can share- which is not a lot of yellow. But if 2025 was the year I fell back in love with red, 2026 is going to be the year of me and YELLOW. I’m finding myself saving a lot of rooms done in yellow on IG and have a pile of yellow fabrics I’m loving on my desk. All of a sudden I get really excited when a client suggests yellow for a room! So I pulled together some favorite things I’ve found in this tone. All the links can be found HERE.

How do you feel about yellow? Are there other colors you want to try out in 2026 that maybe used to be on your “no thanks” list?

Goodbye 2025, Hello 2026.

2026-01-02T17:17:38-00:00

2025 is a year I will never forget and yet one I will always wish I could. One of the hardest years in my life for a myriad of reasons -losing my Dad the most world-shatteringly painful while the constant stress of daily living in this bizarre new world of ours the most consistently soul crushing. The one word I could use to acutely describe this past year is HEAVY. I think most of us felt that in one way or another, I notice a lot of people pronouncing 2025 as the worst year they’ve also had in recent memory, which is interesting to be unified so much all at once.

They say it was the year of the snake- a year of shedding and letting go. I do feel that although it was not intentional, I was forced to shed a lot on 2025- people I loved, notions of being able to fix everything, a little bit of my perfectionism, my desire to be in control. As I enter into this new year, I do feel a little less pressure and a bit more freedom, which comes from great loss and processing those losses within the structure of my daily life. All I thought was perfect was not, as it turns out. What I believed would and should happen did not, and I survived. What I do with the knowledge gained from that is up to me moving forward. I can resent it and let it eat at me or I can use it to change myself for the better. I choose the latter.

A lot of what happened this year coincided with my book release (a great part of 2025) and my tour which meant I had to put on my big girl pants and move through my commitments, and then right into the holidays, undoubtably pushing down a lot of the processing I needed to do. It probably kept me from totally losing it as well though, and seeing all of your lovely faces all over the country really did help me go through the beginning stages of grief with an incredible amount of support and love. For that I am so grateful.

That said, I know I have more work to do internally (thank goodness for my amazing therapist of 12 years) and my soul does feel incredibly weary right now in the quiet of the new year. I have a couple days to rest and be as still as possible before jumping back into work, and I know I need more of that and plan to do that soon but I also am happy to get back to normal life. No book to write, no massive list of commitments outside of work- a little time to get down to the nitty gritty of why I started this business in the first place, a honing in on what I love to do and eliminating the excess and the clutter.

I’m looking at a lot of my life that way- from my wardrobe to my home. Really taking a solid look at all I have and narrowing it down to what I really love and need to make room for what’s to come. Of course, I am itching to take down all Christmas decor and do a good scrubbing of the house, editing of toys and clothes and STUFF (there is just so much STUFF!) A lot of us enter into the New Year this way and for good reason- shedding of the previous year, especially one like 2025, helps you feel hope for the one to come. A clean slate (or clean desk in my case, as of an hour ago) free from debris and distraction is a great way to kick off with a little more freedom and intention.

I also hope that in writing down my goals and hopes for this year help me stay on track (or at least accountable). So here are some of them:

SET STANDARDS AND GOOD PRACTICES AT WORK & HOME

By this I mean really think through which projects we take on and which we pass on. I do have a high overhead so sometimes we do take on not 100% ideal work because, hey- someone has to keep the lights on- but I want to listen to my intuition more when it comes to what we do sign on to. I want to make sure that we have a good mix of very large and not as large projects to keep us creatively connected to the work and make sure our systems are as well coordinated and efficient as possible. Same goes for our home- I want to create efficient and easy organization systems in all rooms and maintain our family calendar on our Skylight like a boss.

TAKE THE LONG ROAD

Sometimes the most efficient route is not the one that helps you grow the most or feeds your soul. And by God, I love to be efficient! Whether it be picking fabrics for a project or taking the time to go for a long walk with a friend, I want to slow down a little and be more intentional with EVERYTHING- my time, my energy, my days, my kids. Take the extra step to make it special or meaningful.

MAKE THE TIME

I do not take much time off, certainly not as much as I need nor want- anyone running a small business feels this way. But I need to make the time to give myself a little more rest than I have been. I struggle greatly with relaxing- I feel SO guilty about it. Like, it makes my skin crawl, and that isn’t healthy. We have a few trips planned this year and I want to be sure I take them all in and breathe. I have a sneaking suspicion I’ll be even more productive if I could learn to properly rest.

WRITE MORE

I’ve had to neglect this blog a lot with my books and business in the last 5-8 years and I want to get back to it, writing more like this and connecting with you guys beyond social media and little quips and links. I’m not making any promises about frequency, but I want it to be more and certainly of higher/deeper quality. I have been thinking that making a weekly “TOP TEN or BEST OF” roundup- from sconces to paint colors to jeans- would be another easy way to share useful content. I LOVE me a good “these are the best” lists- which is part of slimming down what I have to just the best essentials.

HAVE MORE FUN

It seems silly, but I am not the best at having fun and letting go. :) I want to just have more fun and take more risks on lots of areas- starting with wallpapering my stairwell (was too scared to do it 4 years ago when we moved in) and adding some more color and detail into my own home and planning some trips as I mentioned. Getting back into skiing (and getting the kids learning) is another.

As for long term goals, I’m not a big believer in manifesting but I figured I put some down here just for funsies. By 2030 (whoa, that sounds sci-fi) I’d love to….

design a hotel or inn
buy a second home to design and rent out
have a furniture or fabric collection
take the kids to Paris, London, Ireland
get back into painting
write a children’s book ( I can’t help myself)
open a little storefront/ showroom

WHEW. That’s a lot. But what do I have to lose by putting that all out there?

If I learned anything from my dad it’s to take some risks in life- because either he did and it made all the difference in his life, or he decidedly did not and regretted it at the end of his life. I really do not want to end my life wishing I had done more or done things wildly different. I want to feel like I lived the depth and width of my life to the best of my ability and tried and failed or tried and maybe succeeded too.

May 2026 bring us all hope, light and new beginnings.

Cheers,

Erin

High/Low Last Minute Gifts

2025-12-16T16:57:05-00:00

A quick round up of some gifts both in the higher price point and lower – but very similar looks! Shop them all HERE. Find all my other gift guides HERE and best of luck getting everything done in time, everyone!

William Yeoward Crystal Coupe $95 // Vintage List Set of 6 Coupes $104

Le Labo Santal 26 Candle $90 // Quince Bois de Santal Candle $24

Vince Cashmere Funnel Neck Sweater $448 // Quince Cashmere Funnel Neck Sweater $119

Penelope Chilvers Boots $399 // Sorel Boots $150

Rare Beauty Liquid Blush $25 // Color Pop Liquid Blush (great color payoff!) $10

ZIIP Beauty Halo Device $400 // LED Massaging Gua Sha $85

Dyson V15 Detect Stick Vacuum $850 // Levoit Stick Vacuum (highly rated!) $150

M. Flynn x Erin Gates Bezel Diamond Tennis Bracelet $9,900 // Aurate Lab Grown White Sapphire Tennis Bracelet $428

M.Flynn x Erin Gates Diamond Huggies $2,800 // Bauble Bar Huggies $28

Prada Navy Suede Loafer $995 // M. Gemi Navy Suede Loafer $228

Creating a Memorable Guest Room

2025-12-11T20:51:27-00:00

With the holidays approaching and finding myself actually hosting not one but two sets of guests, I have been prepping my guest spaces to be as comfortable and hotel-like as possible and thought I would share what I like to add to these spaces that make staying with us memorable (other than being woken up by Henry and Emma!)

This is my current guest room, which used to be our primary bedroom (there are more detail about this space in my new book, also great in a guest room – hint, hint). I love this room, and sleep in here often when Andrew snores like a wild boar. So I know how I want it to feel, which includes small touches I appreciate when visiting someone’s home myself.

Here’s a roundup of some favorites with notes below! Click images for links.

BEDROOM:

The obvious-fresh sheets and a variety of blankets. People like to sleep at different temps so I like to make sure there are options. Also two different firmness of pillows is a nice touch.
These non-iron sheets are pretty great and look tidy at all times (and are on sale right now!)
By the bed, a nice carafe for water, a sound machine (I have a clock/ sounds machine combo in mine), a sleep mask and ear plugs as well as a charging cord with lots of different options on it.
I also like to have a favorite scented candle (bonus points for cute matches) and some linen spray- this is my current favorite.
I have a mini Keurig brewer on a tray with coffee pods, tea, shelf stable cream packets and sugar and nice mugs so someone can have a cup of coffee before coming down in the morning or some tea alone before bed.
If your room is small without any place to put luggage, a folding luggage rack is a nice addition.
I once stayed at a friends house who had pre-packaged snacks in the guest room like a little minibar and it was delightful!
If you don’t have window treatments, you can custom size these linen roller blackout shades online for very little- then layer drapes over them when you have some time or budget allows.

BATHROOM:

I forgot to add this, but a couple fluffy robes is a special touch.
Fresh towels- may I suggest my collection? :)
I found these adorable tortoise toothbrushes in bulk on Amazon and I am obsessed. Paired with a mini Marvis toothpaste for a little luxury.
In little canisters or within a drawer I like to have elastics, razors, cotton pads and qtips, individually wrapped makeup remover towelettes, ibuprofen, bandaids, mini hair styling products and a fresh brush.
I have full size shampoo and conditioner in the shower and a blow dryer and curling iron also available.

Here’s another favorite guest suite from the book – these clients went bold and fun in their guest space and I LOVE it. Guest rooms are a fantastic place to play it less safe with your design and explore a bolder or different look.

Photography: Kirsten Francis

Taking the Spec Out of a Spec Build…

2025-12-08T19:00:55-00:00

Spec builders probably cringe when they see me coming, knowing that I am going to totally make their lives harder by actually making them do some custom changes to their sold home plans. A lot of spec home developers will promise you the moon about making changes and adding in custom features to a home, but then when the times comes to do it (and you’ve brought on a designer to assist) they can walk back those approvals pretty quickly. I talk about this process in my new book, but this home was a great example of really customizing a spec build. Was it an easy process? NOPE. Were there issues? YUP. But did we get it done and across the finish line? You bet.

Because of some added costs and issues during the build, this house is not completely decorated yet but we wanted to shoot it anyways because there are some really great things about this house we wanted to share! And also, it shows that designing a home, one you plan to be in for a long time, can take YEARS and lots of phases and that’s ok! Not many people have the budgets to do everything all at once – and some have decision fatigue (and spending fatigue) – especially after building a home. So while there are still a few more rooms to complete, it still looks fantastic in its current state – let’s dive in…

This home was basically a foundation with plans when we started, so we did help tweak the plans a bit, but one thing that we left was the open family/kitchen/breakfast nook layout. These clients have two young boys and having a big open space for everyone to congregate and hang out was super important. They wanted casual but polished, comfy but not sloppy. A mix of retail and trade sources were used to make this space feel rich and layered but not busy – and certainly not precious.

These chairs are Maiden Home in a mohair and I love them… those ottomans are mine from my house that we brought over for the photoshoot, and they do look SO good here. We eventually want to add simple drapes and woven woods in this space to soften the high ceilings and large windows.

The kitchen – we did tweak the millwork here quite a bit, but stuck to the layout pretty closely. We did a pale neutral cabinet with a walnut island featuring a simple tapered leg, a custom hood, marble counter and splash behind the range, and then an affordable subway all over.

A vintage runner adds a little softness and the pendants are from Visual Comfort – a great vintage-inspired option. The counter stools are custom and trade only.

A great breakfast nook with a durable table, comfy chairs done in a faux leather and a built in that serves as a coffee bar and optimal extra storage for serveware and china.

Easily my most favorite bar we’ve done to date- this moody plum cabinetry paired with this botanical wallpaper and Calacatta Viola marble is EVERYTHING. Add in the mesh grilles and gold leaf ceiling and we’ve got the coolest little bar in town. You get a peek into the dining room which is ALMOST done- just need the window treatments and rug!

You can see a peek into the formal living room in the below right shot, which we did to complement the bar with the same plum color on all trim and millwork and a grasscloth on the walls and ceiling between the coffers. We have yet to do the furniture and windows in here but we have plans!

Around the corner is the formal powder room rendered in the same palette, just a different funky wallpaper! Believe it or not we bought the sink on Etsy from Turkey and had the legs custom made!

The foyer in which we ended up designing the staircase after the original plan was not up to snuff, and then we chose some readily available retail items to dress it up.

The primary bedroom is 90% there- we have a few more pieces we are swapping/adding but the stars here are the ceilings and the window treatments!

A MASSIVE primary bathroom where we elected to do an expansive greige vanity that needed a third mirror, but we wanted it to look more unique rather than three of the same in a row, so we added in a more decorative one and I love how it came out.

A huge shower in a gorgeous Calacatta Gold tile.

The younger sons bedroom with one of our favorite wallpapers and a piece from Libby Silvia Artstyle. And my cute Kassatex bedding, of course.

The orange roman shade paired with this paper is just darling. Off the bedroom, this bathroom with a striped penny tile floor leads into a playroom, as well.

The older son’s room is a little more mature and modern but still fun.

His en suite bath has a favorite plaid marble floor and dolomite shower – a timeless choice.

In the basement is where the fun is – the movie theater! We did not get our framed vintage movie posters in time for the shoot, but try to visualize them on the empty walls :) I love a row of chaises in a movie theater- it is the MOST comfy way to watch a film or big game. An indoor outdoor animal print carpet is super plush and great for sound.

A peek into the mudroom, which is actually quite large – with little vertical pie hole cut outs and a cubby for everyone and then some. The floor is a porcelain checkerboard for durability.

In between the mudroom and the office (partly done!) we have the CUTEST bathroom featuring the wallpaper I’m doing in my entire stairwell in January (!!!!). I love it paired with this gold and white marble hex floor and simple white subway and vanity.

We are currently booking new clients into late spring 2026. If you are interested in working with us, please email info@eringatesdesign.com for more information or fill out our questionnaire HERE.

Photography by Jessica Delaney.

Gift Guides 2025: My Wish List

2025-12-05T19:33:37-00:00

This is it you guys – final one! These gift guides are so much work, so I do hope you find them helpful and that you continue to check all of them located HERE, as I update my finds almost daily!

As for me- what I really want is a break. Some peace, some room to think, some alone time, time in nature. We have a few trips coming up this year and I’m doing some stuff to the house, so I’m not actually asking for much at all- but I did pull together some items I’d LIKE if, ya know, they happened to fall in my lap. Oh, and also my absurd, huge, crazy wish list items as well just for funsies.

Of Note:

I actually have five jackets on my wish list – but this red statement coat is one I would not buy myself.
A pair of lab grown Asscher cut studs in a bezel set.
This very lovely brush.
A commissioned painting by Chelsea Sommerfeld of her waterlilies for my living room.
A pair of Chanel sunglasses. I have grown up and am now permitted a nice pair.
A pretty personlized notebook to jot down thoughts, plans, dreams, nonsense.
Airfyer/oven update from the one we have now, which we use daily.
These very fancy cocktail coupes.
Some new design books.

And if I won the lottery….

The leopard Chanel jacket that just debuted on the runway I am DEAD over.

A trip to complete the Hoffman Process in CA.

A trip on the Belmond Brittanica

A pair of classic Chanel flats

And my dream set of fancy china and crystal.

Gift Guides 2025: Stocking Stuffers & Under $50

2025-12-03T19:19:53-00:00

Fun little gifts for stockings and Secret Santa/White Elephant type parties! I love these little items, and found some for everyone in the family. Shop all HERE. Also be sure to check out FOR HER, FOR HIM, FOR KIDS & TEENS, UNDER $100 and FOR HOME.

Holidays 2025: Best Holiday Decor

2025-12-01T19:04:34-00:00

Like many of you I have been starting my decorating early this year as Thanksgiving was so late and also, ya know, the world feels BLEAAAKKKK. I do a mix of real and fake everything on both exterior and interior. Inside, we have a big real tree and also a fake tree (we have this one and this one), fake garlands (this one is SO good) and some faux greenery stems in larger vases that stay, while fresh flowers rotate in and out throughout the house. Outside, we do fresh cedar roping around the columns out front and fresh boxwood or magnolia wreaths on the front doors, and then along our fence we do a great Frontgate faux garland (actually 16 of them! No longer made but this one is really close).

Here are some favorites for greenery and accents:

And some favorite faux trees, accompanying accents and ornaments:

Of Note:

Invest in a good fake tree- this one looks amazing and a good balance between sparse and full.
Also invest in really good faux garland, especially anything at eye level – Afloral’s Norfolk Pine and this faux cedar are my two favorites.
I buy all widths and types of velvet ribbon in a palette – last year was all copper and neutrals, this year a mix of brown, blue and olive green. I like both vintage frayed velvet like this and wired ribbon as well.
I love a good tree basket- I love that this one is hinged so you can put it on AFTER the tree goes in the stand!
I don’t swap out pillows or decor for Xmas other than sheets for the kids and an occasional throw – like these.
Our “kid tree” is a bit of a freestyle event, but the tree in the living room is MINE! LOL. I like to have a few sets of consistent ornaments like these glitter stars and tonal balls– and then mix in funny and collected ornaments from over time. This ornament is speaking to me this year.

Fashion Friday: Holiday Party Outfit Ideas

2025-11-28T17:20:00-00:00

You’ve been asking for holiday party outfit ideas and so here we go – looks for all types of occasions – from fancy and sparkly to comfortable and cozy (and even denim)! Click images for links to each product, except the green moire heels, which are HERE.

Happy Black Friday- don’t forget to check out all my gift guides I’ve posted already and stay tuned for more!

Gift Guides 2025: Under $100

2025-11-25T21:13:23-00:00

Budget friendly picks for her, him and home (also some kids stuff on the ShopMy page, too!) – all under $100. Click here or the image below to be brought to the guide! Some faves noted below:

Of Note:

I love Salt + Stone stuff – my favorite scents are the Basil, Santal and Bergamot! This gift set is perfect!

This pillow cracks me up.

This cup set works for cold brew OR hot coffee.

For the planning type- a pretty leather day planner and marbled pencil cup.

For the gal who needs some shut eye- a sleep mask plus this amazing detergent and sleep spray.

For the fancy friend, some Celine for under $100 (just barely!)

A set of four coupes ($19 right now!) with a cool shaker or a bottle of champagne!

Van Cleef looking earrings for WAY less.

A great cordless vac is always handy.

A pretty french press for weekend mornings.

A cashmere henley for him.

Shop all my gift guides HERE! I’ll be posting holiday outfit ideas on Friday and then stay tuned next week for Stocking Stuffers, Christmas Decor and my own personal wishlist! Have a very happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Gift Guides 2025: For Him

2025-11-24T17:46:58-00:00

Always a tough one, unless your husband/brother/father has a hobby you can zero in on, so I tend to include a wide swath of gift ideas. From birdwatcher to blowtorch, you could say. Some call outs (including Andrew’s picks) after the collage. Click image for the link to the guide, updated often!

Criquet is still an all time Andrew fave- he wants both of these- the cord shacket and cozy button down.

His new favorite item are these Birddogs zip necks.

In the clothing department- Relwen is another all time fave. SO many good pieces (more linked on ShopMy). My brothers like them too.

If you are like me and give your husband the job of breaking down all the boxes in the household, this electric box cutter is a nice offering :)

For the skiier or outdoorsman, this heated vest is such a good gift.

The Peleton Tread is the best gym equipment we’ve ever bought.

Quince has really great men’s boots and shoes right now for great prices! (Also these Blundstone boots are awesome for all weather needs but still stylish)

Andrew wants the new Apple Airpods that translate.

These are our favorite luggage pieces right now for work travel- SO light.

This leaf blower looks like a weapon, but it’s cordless and pretty cool!

Gift Guides 2025: For Her

2025-11-20T16:23:11-00:00

Today is FOR HER (perhaps for you as well?) A big range of price points here, with a little something for just about everyone, I hope. You can shop all these links (and more) right HERE! See below for some call out on my favorites!

OF NOTE:

My favorite everyday candle (Cece scent), year round.
The very best suede work/mom bag for under $200. TRUST ME.
Give her the gift of BONE DENSITY and biceps!
My ride-or-die, “buy in all colors” fave cashmere sweater.
I really want this scarf.
The best makeup brushes.
Watch that looks like Cartier but is under $300.
My Heirloom studs, the best bang for your buck diamond-wise.
For the dog lover who also loves design- this marble dog dish (I die).
My favorite phone case.
I got this hair towel and I was skeptical, but I LOOOOOVE it.
A faux fur shawl to dress up any coat or outfit.

Last year my best surprise gift from Andrew was a night away alone in a hotel room at the Mandarin Oriental with a long massage. I cried I was so relieved to have time to myself to rest – it was truly the only thing I wanted. This year they added a special Celadon Stone Massage in a gorgeous newly designed treatment room if you want to drop the hint to someone…. :)

I think a lot of women would love the gift of time – even if it doesn’t involve a hotel room – someone offering to take the kids for the day and leave you alone in your house?! Sounds pretty dreamy right? Not everything has to be a material item – time, space and rest really are luxuries.

Gift Guides 2025: For Kids, Tweens & Teens

2025-11-17T21:06:45-00:00

Probably the biggest guide I do is this one- kids, tweens and teens! Again, this is being updated almost daily on ShopMy so follow along there for all links and new, of the minute picks (as we know kids change and add to their wishlists up to the last minute!) My kids actually don’t have any big gift wishes this year (that are realistic – sorry, Henry you are NOT getting a motorcycle).

The very best gift we got Henry last year he still uses almost daily is this Razor Crazy Cart. All his friends love it when they come over and it was the best $250 we spent. There is a new light up version that I’m sure would be a HUGE hit too (but selling FAST).

For Emma, my home made-over Barbie house is only slightly a hit. She said she wants the “real plastic one” now (groan). This one is Barbie scale and much cuter, but MUCH pricier. Although she is now wanting all American Girl doll stuff (of course not the original, classic dolls like Samantha, but the new Gen Z nonsense ones- LOL) so this dollhouse would be better but the sheer SIZE of it is insane. But it’s actually done really well.

Speaking of dollhouses I almost DIED when I came across this one. But OH MAMA, almost 2 grand is insanity. But I kind of want it for me. :)

Ok, anyways, back to the gift guide. Here it is, I’m scared of teens so I took some guesses but don’t count my word as bond there. 5-10 year olds I can handle well, though!

SHOP ALL LINKS HERE!!!!

**And again, please let me know if this format is good for you! I can go back to linking individually but much more labor intensive and hard to keep up to date!

Gift Guides 2025: FOR HOME

2025-11-12T17:21:40-00:00

Happy gift guide season, everyone! I’m doing things a little different this year by keeping all my suggested gifts in one shop link so that I can update it as I find more gifts as the season moves forward! So everything below can be found HERE, and check back as I will update it weekly with new ideas! Let me know if you like this format and concept, or if you prefer individual image links.

From the fanciest mahjong set to the coziest washable throw that still looks chic – we’ve got a little for everyone here. Happy shopping!

Thanksgiving Tablescape Ideas

2025-10-30T14:52:06-00:00

Since we launched my tabletop collection with Kassatex, I’ve been wanting to play around with how I’d design a full table using these items and it came together SO beautifully. I think the plum and light blue paired together is rich and autumnal and yet fresh and a little unexpected. Paired with the resin horn accents (this vase is a MUST have at $55, it’s SO SO good!) it really feels perfect for Thanksgiving. I even went ahead and designed a cute kids table that is indestructible to coordinate so you can focus on enjoying your meal and not if someone spilled on the linens!

Click images for links except for the Pooky cordless lamps available HERE (so much safer than candles) and the kids flatware HERE.

Also, a reminder that we launched shower curtains in Greek Key to match the towels, a new grey colorway of the best-selling Beacon Hill bath accessories, and a very fall-appropriate resin horn bath accessory collection as well.

Thanks for all your sweet comments and emails this week. I’m so glad to have this community to lean on during tough times. XO

My Dad.

2025-10-27T16:31:19-00:00

Dad and I found this window at Brimfield one year and after years in his barn, he found a perfect spot at it in his Noank beach house (his hands holding it up to show me cracks me up a little now…)

From my first book to my last, I have shared little bits and pieces about how my father and his career influenced me. But I’ve never relayed his entire story. In the days since his passing I have been hit again and again with the realization of just how massive his influence was on me, even beyond what I already knew to be true (which was A LOT). He was so humble about his career path, when in truth it was anything but a modest road to success. It’s a story of passion, dedication, risk and ultimately great reward. Although far from perfect, he was a man who stood by the belief that if you truly love what you do, you never work a day in your life. He never seemed annoyed, resentful or hesitant about going to work. Quite the opposite in fact, we’d often accompany him on weekends and evenings to his offices, job sites or on “drives” (which was code for- “we’re going to look at some houses”)- he truly LOVED what he did. Being an architectural designer was his life blood (other than his family). And clients who got to work with him felt that, I’ve read so many messages from them the past few days about the impact both his genius and his kindness had on them. And while I am devastated to lose him, I am also so very proud that he was my father.

I don’t know everything in detail, and I wish I had asked so many more questions than I did, but I do know the beginning of his story doesn’t start with architecture at all. It starts with fashion. My great grandfather and grandmother came here from Ireland sometime in the early 1900’s. I am not sure what they did back in Ireland, but when they planted roots in Willimantic, CT they opened a small women’s department store in 1916 named Tubridy’s (my maiden name). I have framed photographs from the first location that I had included on my stairwell gallery wall in my old house (below), and now need to find a place for in this house. My grandfather (my father’s father), was born into that business and he and my grandmother took it over and ran it until 1988 when my dad was handed the reigns (he had been managing the store prior to that). But this was not what he really wanted to do with his life. He wanted to be an architect. His parents had firmly said no to that idea, that he had to run the store, and so he did. But he did not just give up on his dream while following his parent’s wishes.

He taught himself by reading books. Books upon books. And while he was managing the family store, which had since grown into a much bigger space in Mansfield, CT, he was teaching himself architecture on the side. When I was born, he had been working with a licensed draftsman doing tiny jobs- people’s garages, small additions and eventually houses (of course with the help of someone with the credentials to make sure, you know, it didn’t fall down or anything). So, my childhood was a mix of both going to the store with him and playing amongst the racks of clothing and jewelry and also sitting at that angled drafting table he had in the house and drawing my own little floorplans for houses dreamt up in my mind. As you can clearly see, both clearly lead me to where I am today.

I remember the ladies at the store who worked for my family for decades- Ruth, a saleswoman, Maria the seamstress in the tailoring department- they both must have worked there for 50 years. I can so vividly picture the stock room full of slightly creepy mannequins my brother and I would play in. As he made his rounds, we would sneak into his grey metal candy drawers in the closet in his office which always held candies most people would detest: Good & Plenty, Candana Mints, Raisinets and Necco Wafers (I still LOVE a fresh box of Good & Plenty!). I have SO many visceral memories of this period of my life. In fact, my first job was wrapping gifts in the back during holiday season, which is probably why I still adore gift wrapping. Tubridy’s was such a legacy- and I was so proud that our family owned it (big fish, small pond and all). It was one of the cornerstones of the small mall in our town (Mansfield) alongside Caldor (anyone remember that?) and I spent SO much time in that mall growing up and was so delighted that we were a part of it.

This next part is a little bit of a blur for me, but as a design firm owner myself who went from just me to one employee and eventually to 8 employees, I imagine it was a similar trajectory as mine. Word of mouth is the best marketing, and eventually he became “the guy” people in town were using for their architecture .He hired licensed architects to work alongside him at this point, and opened a firm called New England Design. All this without ONE day of formal schooling in architecture.

As his firm grew locally, people took notice. He started working beyond just our neck of the woods, reaching down to the Connecticut shore and into a small enclave he used to spend time in as a child called Groton Long Point. He had started doing commercial work as well- shopping plazas, banks, educational spaces. His client book grew based on recommendation and reputation, never paying for publicity or advertising. And he had a healthy little business going when I was in elementary school. And then he got a call from what would be his biggest client of all time- the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. They wanted to build a bingo hall and asked him to present. He did and he got the job, the largest of his career yet. Simultaneously, he had to close Tubridy’s down. He needed to focus on his architecture career, but also the economics of the town had suffered – retail was anything but booming. The bingo hall was a huge success and then eventually word broke that the tribe was going to build a casino, the first in New England. The chief of the tribe, Skip, whom my dad had become close with, of course had to entertain pitches from multiple large design firms, but in the end he took my dad up to the top of a hillside overlooking the reservation and asked him “how would you like to build a casino with me?” That casino being Foxwoods.

My dad just told us that part of the story a few years ago, how he had been asked to design Foxwoods, and he cried when he spoke about that part. Can you imagine, being a self-taught designer, not able to even call yourself an architect, and landing the biggest casino job in the WORLD (which it was at the time)? The pressure had to have been immense, I cannot even fathom. Of course it was a massive team in place, a much larger architectural firm doing the complicated structural process drawings and design, but all the of conceptual design and project development was his firm, which is completely wild.

For research and inspiration, they flew him to casinos around the world, on the Concorde no less, and he got to see and do things I’m certain he never in his wildest dreams expected to be able to. All I can remember of this time, besides the slippers he brought back from the Concorde which blew my mind (“they gave you SLIPPERS on the PLANE?”) is this massive model they made of the original casino design, that my dad had covered in a plexiglass box and used as a coffee table in his office. It was the most magical thing I had ever seen! So tiny and yet so enormous. I have a vague recollection of the opening night of the original tower at Foxwoods, we pulled around the bend of what is a pretty rural area of Connecticut and this ginormous building rose out of the earth and HOLY SHIT my DAD has designed that (with his whole team of course, and many other specialists!) He was so proud. And it changed our lives forever, as you can imagine. Prior to this my family was pretty comfortable, but this huge opportunity provided a whole new kind of lifestyle (in fact, when he built our beach house he named the house “Windfall”- as he saw this as not only a product of his hard work but also of a great stroke of luck).

But one thing remained true- we all had to work no matter what. I had odd jobs as a kid as I mentioned- wrapping gifts at the store, answering the phone at my dad’s firm and assisting the interior designer on staff with the sample library during winter breaks. But every summer since I was 15 we had to have a full time summer job. I was a fry cook/ counter waitress at our little local diner (literally making the donuts at 5 am), scooped ice cream until my right arm outsized my left, waited tables, was a lifeguard, worked retail at the mall. My brother Mike was digging out basements and spreading mulch and doing manual labor for my dad’s clients. Our educations were paid for, we were all given cars when we graduated high school (I will never forget pulling up next to a navy Jeep Wrangler with a bow on it after graduation and my dad handing me keys and telling me “you can drive to dinner” and being absolutely baffled as to what he was saying and what I was seeing.) So, while we were expected to work hard and earn our keep, we were also very privileged. I was very, very lucky. But hand-outs and laziness were not allowed and in fact, basically revolting to my parents. This is not a therapy session, so I won’t get into how I’m sure this plays into why I cannot for the life of me ever relax now as an adult and I always feel the need to be productive 24/7… but I digress. It also is why I have been successful myself, in fact I was just telling him the other day how 18 years into running my business I still operate under the assumption that everything could disappear tomorrow- and he laughed with a very knowing grin.

But back to the story, Foxwoods lead to meetings with the big wigs in the casino and entertainment world- Steve Wynn, Bob Kraft and yes, the evil overlord himself ,Donald Trump. But what he really loved was just designing houses. That’s what brought him the most joy, and so his firm turned focus to mostly residential work. He designed some really spectacular homes, but never professionally photographed them and never pitched them to publications. That kind of outside applause just didn’t seem to matter to him. But it kind of drove me crazy, so I had one of my photographers shoot the exterior and grounds of his own home which I eventually pitched to the Boston Globe Magazine (and was published in 2013). A spectacular piece of property, ironically nicknamed The Ranch, there was nowhere he’d rather be than on that back porch looking over the field as the sun set. I wanted to share the magic my parents had created on that land and show off his talent a bit!

When I decided that interior design was what I wanted to do, I thought I needed to get a masters degree in order to compete. It will probably not come as a shock to you that my dad argued against that. He said, as it held true for him, my talent was my eye and taste level, and to focus on honing my natural skills by working in the field and then reassessing if I needed to go to school based on what I learned about myself and the industry. Of course, he was right- and like him, I slowly worked from picking friend’s sofas and paint colors, to having a couple real clients to then quitting my day job and opening my own business in 2007. Like him, I taught myself through working, reading, watching and absorbing from those around me. His firm has had the same employees for almost my entire life. It was important to him to value and retain talented people he cared about. I pride myself in having had employees for 8, 10, 12 years as well, having learned from him that appreciating those around you and hiring people who are better than you at different aspects of the field (I don’t even know how to log into CAD) is how you make a successful firm.

We had the opportunity to work together three times- on my own home in Newton and with two clients of his on the CT shore (one of which I photographed here). Of course, being father and daughter, we were at odds over some things (he never liked window treatments- how dare I hide the casing millwork!) and I would have to break it to him that glass vessel sinks and spotty granite were no longer cool. But I love what we did together and I wish we had done more.

That’s something that keeps echoing in my head as I attempt to traverse this massive grief- how much more I wish I had done. More questions, more conversation, more travel, more efforts… I’m not sure how to forgive myself for that or even if I should (Andrew says I have nothing to forgive myself for, but I seem to enjoy some good self-flagellation now and again… and again.) It’s hard to imagine not having him to call with questions about design, or his opinion on a house, or to fill him in on my tour stops. It’s impossible to imagine I will never see him again. Or have his undying, quiet support as well as his loud cheers of pride. It all feels bizarre, even though I knew it was coming.

One thing that several people have said to me that does help is how lucky I was so have such an involved and supportive father. Someone who really cared and let me know how proud he was. Not everyone gets to have that kind of relationship with their fathers. They also say the grief I feel is a true reflection of such a large amount of love. I am finding it hard to absorb that fully right now, just a little more than a week out from his death, but I hope in time I will. And I will celebrate him as a designer, a person, a father and grandfather in all the ways I know how. I hope he knew just how much he meant to me, how much I loved him and how hard I fought to help him. And I hope he will continue to watch over me and my children for the rest of our lives from somewhere very special under a perfect sunset.

KEVIN MICHAEL TUBRIDY

February 19, 1945- October 15, 2025

My New Collection with Kassatex!

2025-10-22T14:21:13-00:00

My latest collection with Kassatex is now available, featuring brand new tabletop – decor perfect for upcoming holiday entertaining – and new bath accessories!

First up, our gorgeous tabletop items from our Reverie Collection, including:

Ripple / Fluted Marble Reversible Placemats
Ripple Embroidered Dinner Napkins, Lola Ditz Dinner Napkins
Ripple Embroidered Cocktail Napkins, Fluted Marble Cocktail Napkins
Cambridge faux horn Napkin Ring Set
Sconset Woven Chargers
The Cambridge Vase in a faux horn (you’ve probably seen peeks of it from our recent photo shoots – it’s SO good).

We wanted to keep the color palette for the table linens holiday-agnostic, so you can mix and match and blend in with any decor theme.

We also designed something new for us – menorahs! Over the last few years when putting together gift guides and holiday decor round ups, I noticed a lack of modern menorahs. I know that this is an heirloom piece, often passed down in families, but for anyone looking for a new menorah for Hanukkah, we have you covered in this fluted marble version (in both Ivory and Grey).

We also have new bath accessories! We worked with the team to update our best-selling Beacon Hill bath collection, now available in a dark grey marble.

We also loved the faux horn resin we used in the table top collection so much, we made it into bath accessories, including a waste basket, tissue box cover, soap dispenser, and more.

All of these items are available now – can’t wait to see how you use them in your homes!

Photos by Jessica Delaney. Styling by Lucy Bamman.

My Dream Collab with Dudley Stephens!

2025-10-18T12:07:22-00:00

Molly here – jumping in for Erin while she takes some time away. We’re sharing some exciting news today – our collaboration with Dudley Stephens is now live! You can shop the Finlay Pullover in Sherpa Fleece and the Kids Wellesley Pullover now.

From Erin: “I have worn Dudley Stephens for years, and when they approached me about a collaboration I was thrilled not only to create pieces I felt were missing from my wardrobe, but also make it a family affair, with a stylish option for Emma!

Anyone who has followed me knows I have a deep and true love for animal print, leopard specifically, so doing a fabulous pop-over sherpa fleece that felt elevated to wear with jeans or just level up your athleisure felt obvious!”

As soon as the samples came in, Erin and Emma had to do a little photoshoot to document their matching moment :)

The Beans cameo we all need.

Can you EVEN??

I love the cut of this style – the fitted sleeves paired with a boxier fit, slightly cropped, with elastic cuffs and gold snaps on the collar – just perfect!

In the next few weeks, we’ll be sure to share more ideas on how to style the fleece, and we’ll be launching another design :) In the meantime, make sure to grab yours before they sell out!

Photos by Sarah Winchester.

Project Reveal: Beacon Hill Townhome

2025-10-15T19:25:35-00:00

Molly here (taking over posting while Erin takes some time) to share a recent project the Erin Gates Design team completed in Beacon Hill.

This was an exciting project because it not only meant working on a historic Beacon Hill townhome, which is a dream, but it was also a chance to work with the team at Patrick Ahearn again.

The clients are recent empty nesters who were moving from the suburbs back into the city, and the husband is a huge history buff, so it was important to reimagine this townhome in a way appropriate to both its storied past and the lifestyle of the new occupants – blending function and beautiful materials, details and finishes together.

Off the kitchen is an office/morning room and powder room.

In addition to the kitchen and morning room, the first floor features a light-filled family room and formal entry.

On the second floor is the primary suite and a gorgeous office space.

Being in Beacon Hill presents its own set of challenges – nearly all of the furniture had to be brought in by crane through a window on the top floor! I love the timeless look the home has, with some fun spots of modernity – like the patterned drapes in the morning room and the gorgeous marble primary bath.

Photos by Sean Litchfield.

Fashion: I Just Wanna Be Comfy

2025-10-07T15:27:16-00:00

Between filming content and touring for the new book, I’ve been dressing up more and having to shop for more dressy outfits but what I really want? TO BE COMFY. Now, I’m not the type of person who goes out in pajamas or sweats- I just don’t feel comfortable with that. Athleisure, sure, but most of time “comfy” looks to me are great jeans and a cozy sweater, sweatshirt or fleece. You can kinda go anywhere in that look these days- from lunch to a site visit to watching TV at home. So I rounded up some cozy tops and jackets paired with comfy footwear (trying to get into clogs/ mules but the prepster deep inside me struggles!)

Click images for links.

BOOK THREE IS HERE!!!!

2025-09-30T14:32:20-00:00

Oh boy, this has been a LONG time coming. But it’s here, finally, six years later!

There isn’t much to say beyond thank you, to everyone who has pre-ordered, bought previous books, followed along on Instagram, hired us to design their homes, worked alongside me for years to create these gorgeous spaces, photograph them, edit my first drafts, plan my tour and and especially those who cheered me on when I thought I couldn’t do it. None of this was or is done alone – far, far from it, in fact. I started this business from my one bedroom apartment in 2007 and now here we are, three books, countless homes, several product lines, a new house and two kids! Who would have thunk!

So in celebration, here are some of my personal favorite shots from the book – of the 417 images, these are some that really make my heart sing.

My kitchen – with a peek into the pantry and mudroom. I am still so happy this is mine.

My family room – this image is everything I want a home to feel AND look like – a mix of high/low, custom and store bought, antique and new, durable and delicate. And also, PRACTICAL – yes, that’s a TV. :)

Emma’s room – I love that we all thought it was such a dreamy little girl’s room and yet my daughter thinks it’s “lame” because it lacks pink/rainbow/unicorns.

This was almost the cover I love it so much. The sheep, the grand scale, the patina (even though it was a new build) and the clients!

This shot had me the moment we took it – the light, but also the moodiness. This mudroom is well-trafficked and still so pretty.

Such a simple image but these cabinets came out SO well, such beautiful craftsmanship!

The happiest guest suite there ever was! Playing with bold color is so much fun.

Also love bringing some drama to a space. This dining room adjoining a living room/lounge space is just so rich and layered… and those dining chairs are an all time fave.

The power art has cannot be overstated. This piece just MADE the space.

This is the sweetest beach house kitchen – those Delft tiles and antique counter stools could not be more perfect together.

A classic powder room with the stone mosaic, wood vanity, William Morris wallpaper and those SCONCES…

The light in this shot as the sun set on our shoot (against our client’s collection of Audubon prints) was just so calming

You can get the book at any of these retailers or in person (hopefully) at your local bookstore! And in case you missed the previous two and want the whole set get book one and two here as well! Or come see me on tour – all the dates are listed HERE!

Images: Kirsten Francis, Michael J. Lee.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

Fashion Friday: Some Fall Faves

2025-09-26T17:09:55-00:00

It’s been a whirlwind as of late with book coming out and touring and everything, so I have been neglectful of the blog- which I cannot wait to get back to once things settle in November a bit. So for today, a quick round up of some things that have caught my eye or become a new favorite- fashion, home, beauty. CLick for links!

Fashion Friday: Fall Finds Under $200

2025-09-05T15:57:59-00:00

Everything seems to be about $500 these days- sweaters, jackets, shoes… everything I seem to love is SO much more than I remember it being (thanks to you know who). But there are still great finds at decent prices, even for more substantial fall fashion. Here are some great pieces all under $200 I’m loving (already bought the plaid LL Bean fleece, moccasins and Pistola jeans!)

Have a great weekend! Shop more of my fashion finds, updated daily, on my ShopMy Collections!

You Asked: Bookshelf Styling 101

2025-09-03T18:23:01-00:00

I always get questions from readers/followers/clients about how to style out a bookshelf, so today I’m sharing my tips, as well as well as some ideas for accessories!

Step 1: Preorder my new book, “Elements of Timeless Style: Creating a Forever Home”. Not only does it provide lots of helpful advice, it will look very nice on your coffee table or bookshelf :)

Step 2: Watch this video, where I really break it down for you.

Step 3: Add in some cute and practical accessories, frames, book ends, art work, candles, etc. Click the image below for links!

Elements of Timeless Style Book Tour Details!

2025-08-26T14:15:43-00:00

I am so excited to welcome all of my Boston readers to the kick off for my book tour and release party for “Elements of Timeless Style: Creating a Forever Home” on Tuesday, September 30. Click the invite below to RSVP!

I’m making stops all over the east coast and into the mid west this fall, and will add links for the events as they become available! Here’s where I’m headed:

Tuesday, October 2 (6pm-8pm) – Williams Sonoma Columbus Circle (New York, NY)
Wednesday, October 8 (2pm-4pm) – Athena Books (Old Greenwich, CT)
Thursday, October 9 (5pm-7pm) – Veronica Beard Georgetown (Washington, DC)
- RSVP to georgetownRSVP@veronicabeard.com
Wednesday, October 22 (11:30am-1:30pm) – Shore Acres Country Club (Lake Bluff, IL)
Wednesday, October 22 (5pm-7pm) – Veronica Beard Wilmette (Wilmette, IL)
- RSVP to plazadellagoRSVP@veronicabeard.com
Saturday, October 25 (3pm-5pm) – Momeni Rugs Showroom (High Point, NC)
- No RSVP required – all are welcome!
Tuesday, October 28 (4:30pm-6:30pm) – Johnson Paint (Boston, MA)
Thursday, November 6 (5pm-7pm) – Mrs. Howard with Andrew Howard (Charlotte, NC)
Tuesday, November 18 (5:30pm-7:30pm) – Heirloom Artifacts with Stephanie Sabbe (Nashville, TN)
- Purchase book for admission – space is limited
Thursday, November 20 (5pm-7pm) – Portland Art Gallery (Portland, ME)

Can’t wait to see you all out on the road! Thank you for your support :)

You Asked: Alternative to the Dreaded “Boob Light”

2025-08-11T20:40:39-00:00

The boob light graveyard in my basement after we bought our house and ripped them all out.

A pox on all our houses – the dreaded boob light is a contractor favorite, especially during the late 90’s/ early aughts, and it’s time to get rid of them! Cheap and efficient but ugly and unnecessary today as there are so many flush mount and semi-flush mount options. A slew of you asked me for alternatives to these as it can be overwhelming when needing to replace a bunch of them in a single residence. A few rules of thumb:

smaller sizes ones in a hallway or closet can be replaced with schoohouse type fixtures or smaller semi-flush lights.
If there is a single light in the center of a bedroom, look at wider style flushmounts or perhaps a semi-flush mount if the light will fall over a bed and you can maintain head clearance.
In a larger room, look even further away from a flushmount and try a wide hanging fixture on a short stem like the two below. We also have hung wide armed chandeliers on a single chain ring close tot he ceiling to make a bigger statement.

Click images below for links to all these alternatives- ranging price greatly, but all better looking than the $25 boob (no shade to boobs themselves, they are great).

*Last fixture is not hyperlinked, click here.

And a few more non-boob options from our portfolio…

photo by jessica delaney

photo by michael j. lee

Elements of Timeless Style Book Tour – Save the Date(s)!

2025-08-06T16:01:00-00:00

The release of my third book is fast-approaching, and planning for my book tour is well underway, so I wanted to share the latest dates and locations so you can mark your calendars! More details to come. Can’t wait to celebrate with you all!

*Ticketed event.

Fashion Friday: Tour Ready

2025-08-01T20:13:14-00:00

Stay tuned next week when I will be announcing my currently confirmed book tour stops for the fall- which means mama needs some outfits. 15 to be exact. YOINKS.

I started saving things I think will be good for this tour- which is going to be more on the casual side, but I try not to wear jeans to any of my signings and treat it like the event it is. This isn’t everyday stuff, after all. October and early November the temps will range from possibly rather chilly in the Northeast to still warm down south so I need layers and options. Also I get real “anxious-sweaty” during signings, so short sleeves or sleeveless is preferred. :) Here are some things I have my eye on- especially the coral suede set (ordering now) and the Veronica Beard vest-suit situation (two of my signing stops are at VB stores-yay!). Let the ordering commence!

not clickable- the brown button down which is HERE.

Elements of Timeless Style Preorder Sweepstakes!

2025-07-31T13:18:49-00:00

We are officially two months out from the release of my third book, “Elements of Timeless Style: Creating a Forever Home“, and in celebration of that, we are announcing an awesome preorder sweepstakes!

Enter now for your chance to win one of two prizes:

One Grand Prize Winner will receive a one-hour virtual design consultation with me! Pick one space in your home that you’d like me to help design, or put together a list of your most pressing design questions.
One Runner-Up Winner will receive their choice of a Greek Key Bedding Bundle or Ripple Bedding Bundle from my collection with Kassatex.

To enter, and for additional details, click here. Thank you for your support, and good luck!

No purchase nec. 18+. Starts 07/30/25-Ends 09/30/25. Subject to Rules.

All Natural

2025-07-08T14:57:14-00:00

I vacillate greatly between loving interiors with a lot of color and some with absolutely none. A crisp all-neutral space is something I find very soothing (maybe a hint of green or burnt coral somewhere, but not much) but then here I am considering replacing my neutral drapes in my dining room with bright chartreuse! I guess this is why I am a designer – I get to design all varieties of spaces (although 85% are blue, to be honest).

Right now with the heat and the humidity (and global anxiety and stress), all neutral and natural feeling items are calling to me — so I did a nice roundup of things that have caught my eye that fit the bill! Click images for links.

Project Reveal: Maine Vacation Home with Panoramic Water Views

2025-07-07T16:35:09-00:00

I’m so excited to share a project we photographed last spring in Ogunquit, Maine, featured in this month’s Maine Home + Design! We designed this vacation house for a busy family as a weekend/summer retreat for entertaining visiting family and friends.

Shall we start with the view from the side porches? One side of the wraparound deck faces Perkins Cove while the other has a view of the ocean. Hard to choose which one is better!

On to the family room with multiple seating options and a great mix of patterns, featuring both indoor and outdoor grade fabrics.

A set of Palecek chairs done in an outdoor Sister Parish pattern surround a game table by Dunes & Duchess.

The kitchen is long and narrow with a pass through to the bar and two islands – one in the cooking area for prep and the second with stools for seating. We mixed up the materials for the prep island so it felt more like a furniture piece than another run of cabinetry. Beyond the second seating island is a dining table that overlooks the water and the screened in porch.

Off the kitchen is this super fun lounge area – the clients really wanted this space to be fun and bold, so this Peter Dunham paper did the trick! The doors fold back to make the screened porch and lounge one big entertaining space (complete with beer on tap and Frame TV with a custom bezel!)

The sweet powder and laundry rooms are done in a seaglass shade of pale green and white.

The foyer is simple and sweet…

At the top of the stairs is a home office and guest suite.

Followed by the kids bedrooms with a Jack & Jill bath and another full guest bath.

I’m crazy about this bathroom and how we were able to make it fun and interesting but stay neutral.

And, finally, the primary suite, which includes a deck with more seating and incredible views. Again, this is a classic, time tested look for a beach house with watery pale blues, woven textures, washed oak and lots of bright white.

You can read more about the project in the July 2025 issue of Maine Home + Design, which includes interviews with the builder, Richard Moody & Sons Construction, and our gracious clients.

And to see our most recent projects (that we aren’t holding back for the book!), you can always visit our portfolio page.

All photos by the talented Jessica Delaney.

Check back in the coming weeks, when I’ll share a few ideas/suggestions for how to get the look :)

Outdoor Rug Roundup

2025-06-30T19:40:38-00:00

Our outdoor Ripple rug in a client’s butler’s pantry (this house will be in the new book!)

I’m making my way through the list of requests you guys sent me regarding items you are looking for sources for. One mentioned a lot was indoor/outdoor rugs. I use rugs like this ALL the time, more indoors than out honestly! Working with families that have kids and pets and don’t want to stress about every drop of juice or paint or dog pee- rugs like this have come so far that you may not even realize they are outdoor grade materials. Many times I use custom/trade sources for these for clients and in my own home- you can find similar custom sized options on sites like Ernesta, or even Pottery Barn or West Elm.

I will preface my selections by saying many of these are my own design with Momeni because frankly, I think we make the best retail indoor/outdoor rugs out there! Be sure to always use a grip rug pad under rugs like this when on hardwood floors. This is my favorite.

Bookshelf Accessory Round Up

2025-06-23T19:32:37-00:00

One of my most popular posts of years past was a bookshelf accessory round up and a client of mine alerted me that a lot of the links were dead/no longer available, so I updated the post to include some new fresh finds!

The key to successful bookshelf styling is to mix up the contents- small art, photographs, sculpture, boxes, trays– you name it. I even have a animal skull I found in the woods (and bleached, don’t worry) on mine under a cloche. Anything goes! Also, be sure to change the direction of your books from shelf to shelf (or even within the same shelf)- placing some stacked horizontal and others the normal orientation with bookends.

Fashion Friday: My Favorite Basics

2025-06-20T17:41:27-00:00

I love hearing about people’s favorite go-to items- the basics they wear and buy over and over. These are mine (at least some of them). From investment pieces (shoes, diamond studs) to buy in bulk items (tees, underwear) there’s a lot to love here. Click images for links except for the diamond earrings which are from my collection with M. Flynn.

Of Note:

*I hate padded bras, so my choices are unlined. I also hate strapless gras and have found these stick on lifting options better.

* I have this cashmere sweater in 3 colors (including the purple one I was wearing in my Reel the other day many asked about). I’ve actually worn my grey one OUT and am replacing.

* Don’t make fun of me for my GG sneakers. I am being honest and I wear them ALL THE TIME and hate that I love them so much but I do.

* Loubs are worth the money.

*Sunglasses are not- I lose them all the time. Cheap ones only.

*My Heirloom studs are everything. I’m biased, but it’s true. Big sparkle power.

*I am ride or die for these Alo leggings and Amazon longline sports bra.

Design Challenge: Toddler Rainbow Unicorn Room

2025-06-09T20:00:59-00:00

The other night as we were going to bed Emma told me point blank she hated her room. “It’s not FABULOUS enough, Mommy!” she moaned as I looked around at her Colefax & Fowler Bowood paper, Jasper Michael Smith headboard, custom drapery and cushions and thought “you brat!” :) I asked her what she thinks would make it “fabulous” and she told me “it needs a lot more rainbows and unicorns”.

*shudder*

I was telling a girlfriend about this story and she said “I would LOVE to see you design a rainbow unicorn themed room”, and I thought CHALLENGE ACCEPTED, baby. Now is this the exact concept Emma would have in mind? No, hers would be in a much more neon palette and cartoonish- but hey, it’s a nice, tasteful combination of rainbow colors and unicorn themes! Never say never!

I have LONG loved this Kravet wallpaper and almost did it for Emma’s room originally- and lo and behold, there are actual unicorns in it! This week we picked up this rug sample for another client and it’s such a cute subtle way to add rainbow to a room. The unicorns come back in this sheet set, paired with a pretty pink embroidered duvet and shams. Emma has this dollhouse bookshelf in green in her room now and it’s darling, and the canopy bed is such a princess moment. I love this Schumacher shields fabric because it’s giving “princess warrior/ be your own hero” vibes. The dresser and nightstands, chair and bed are all long term, last forever pieces that kids won’t grow out of, which is what I always like to do when designing kids rooms. You can change bedding and even wallpaper and give the room a whole new look.

wallpaper // drape fabric // bed // bed fabric // bedding // sheets // nightstand // chair // swimg arm lamp // shade // bookcase // dresser // art // lamps // bed pillow

Outdoor Seating Faves

2025-06-04T18:45:17-00:00

A client’s patio. Architecture by LDa Architects// Photo by Kirsten Francis

You asked, I plan to answer! Lots of great suggestions from you guys on IG about things you are looking for sources for and advice on and since it was the most requested topic I’ll start with outdoor furniture. I just finished my patio renovation, and my new furniture is on it’s way and I will share images once everything is in (I previously shared some ideas here)

When choosing outdoor furniture I try to avoid sets, as I do within the home as well. It just can look cheap when everything matches. Sometimes I’m ok with a set when it’s metal (as I don’t love mixing the more delicate metal pieces with chunkier wood or woven items) and you are able to mix up the cushion fabrics (say a solid on the sofa and stripe on the chairs). I do however love mixing rattans/woven and wood pieces (keeping all the wood the same finish). Basically pick your sofa/ sectional and then work off that. If it’s made of wood/ teak, maybe your chairs or chaises are woven. If the sofa is woven, your chairs and any other wood items should be a coordinating teak. You can change up materials with the coffee table or side tables- but try to stick to one additional material like a resin, concrete or metal.

When it comes to the cushions, just know that white will get filthy. Even though it’s indoor/ outdoor leaves and grass can stain or discolor and dirt will collect, especially if you forget to cover them like I do. I am terrible about remembering to cover my furniture in the summer when storms roll in, and it really does a number on the cushions. I have these covers from Amazon and they are easy and affordable and I keep them in my barn when not in use, but a lot of people will get a storage bin (this or this) to keep them handy.

Here are some favorite lines for lounge furniture by material. Click images for links except the * items which are here: sofa // chair and ottoman. I’ll do dining and outdoor pillows/ accessories soon too!

The one truth about outdoor furniture is it’s expensive. If it’s not, it’s not going to last (in my experience). So but well once instead of terribly two or three times. And cover your cushions, people! :)

Fashion Friday: Sunny Summer Hue

2025-05-30T15:03:30-00:00

Typically, yellow is not a color I wear a lot nor decorate with. Except for right now, I am LOVING IT! It feels fresh and happy, and I think we are all craving a bit of that. Even more unexpected is pairing yellow and brown. I know, it sounds terrible. But look at these 6 outfits I pulled together in this palette (some all brown/ white, some mixing yellow and brown) and tell me there isn’t one you like. :) Wait, that feels like a trap I just set for myself. Anyways, I want all of these immediately. Click images for links and have a happy weekend!

Father’s Day Gift Guide

2025-05-28T19:16:20-00:00

Is time not FLYING this spring? I cannot believe we are weeks away from kids being out of school and therefore, Father’s Day. A little round up of items that Andrew loves, I like and we as a team think are pretty great gifts for the guys in your life.

Not linked in image: Hermes Apple Watch band // Function Health testing // Blanton’s bourbon

Of note:

It would not be a Father’s Day post without a link to Criquet shirts, Andrew’s absolute ride or die (and I know MANY men agree with him!)
I think these little paint your own trophies are so cute for the kids to do for their dad!
Andrew just did the Function Health lab tests and it’s very thorough and helped him discover not only his biological age of a decade younger than he is (!), but also elevated markers for heart disease he did not know about and now can address. Health is our biggest asset, so this would be a nice gift for someone you love.
We’ve done two custom shuffleboard tables for clients lately, and this one is not nearly as pricey but still good looking (I also have come to love shuffleboard!)
Blanton’s is not only a VERY nice bottle of bourbon but I love the bottle for display too :)
A new leafblower or powerwasher- of course.
For the cook, a smart meat thermometer or super sleek chef’s knife.
Also Andrew’s favorites – Vuori workout shorts and Jack Black face products.
We got these Quince suitcases and they are fantastic – and so much less than identical models.

My New Patio Design

2025-05-21T20:35:30-00:00

We are inching closer to the finish line with my new patio and I am SO excited. The timing could not be better with the arrival of warmer weather, and since we do not go anywhere for the summer (a gal’s gotta work), this is my happy place.

As I mentioned before, we looked into adding a pool as well and the cost was SO high we immediately had to scrap that idea until another time (or not). Maybe a plunge pool someday, but not anytime soon. As it turns out, patios are pretty damn expensive too when done well! We initially had an outdoor kitchen down here as well as the firepit and then because of budget, had to scrap that too- we will have our grill down here near the dining table, but that’s it.

We worked with New View, Inc. after finding them through clients and Ryan was so helpful with us cutting back to a budget we were comfortable with. He also really helped me select the materials and plantings that would best work with our yard, sunlight and desired aesthetics (of note: I paid in full, this is not a sponsored thing- I just love to recommend great small business vendors to you locals!)

All I wanted out of this patio is a large area for seating and lounging in front of a gas firepit, and a separate space for dining for 8. I wanted to delineate the patio from the yard with a stone wall that’s about the same height as our chairs, so that when we’re entertaining, we can also use that wall for additional seating. Our yard is NOT flat by any stretch of the imagination, so Ryan had to make sure our grading was perfect and really think through drainage, run off and angles so that the transitions are nice and the patio is functional. I love the look of bluestone, but was warned against how hot it can get in the summer. I looked at all kinds of granites but could not get past how uniform they looked – I like a little more variation. Ryan ended up finding this material the stone yard called “Premium Light Bluestone” – but he said it’s not really bluestone (it does not behave the way bluestone does when cut – much cleaner edges and less chipping). One of the downsides of bluestone is the flaking and the orange iron spots that show over time – especially now that a lot of bluestone is sourced in China and not Pennsylvania as it used to be, so this is a great upside to this mystery material. I am also am hoping it doesn’t get as hot, but in our yard, which has both shade and sun, I don’t think it will be as much of an issue.

The stone wall is all hand stacked, not veneer, so that was a big part of the budget, but it looks SO nice. We looked at both natural gas lines and buried propane lines for the firepit and went with propane as it was less of a disturbance construction-wise and 1/4 of the cost. The tanks are 30 feet away behind a fence and I think will be great as they have meters on them that alert the propane company when we need more. I CANNOT wait to sit by the fire with my kiddos this summer. We are still working on the plantings, which I wanted to keep simple – grasses, limelight hydrangeas, climbing hydrangeas, hostas and boxwoods. We moved a lot of existing healthy plants around too to save money and be mindful of what we are using vs. throwing away.

Since we changed the shape and size of the patio we needed more furniture (and different sizes). In our scary rental house we lived in last year while renovating we had an outdoor sectional and we all LOVED it. So we decided that given the scale and shape of the patio, that would work perfectly here. I have a longstanding fantastic relationship with Frontgate going back many years, and they offered me some new pieces to mix with my current patio furniture I have from them, which is amazing. Existing pieces are the dining table and chairs, wood side tables, umbrella and umbrella table, and the planters. New will be the sectional, chaises and lounge chair. I’m making custom pillows for everything, because well – I can. :)

Click for links:

Stay tuned for the final patio pics, install of the furniture and a photoshoot this summer of the whole shebang (am thinking a birthday dinner party here in August is a must!). And Instagram for more updates and pics!

Fashion Friday: Summer Warmth

2025-05-16T15:34:52-00:00

I’m feeling particulary drawn to warmer tones these days- coral, terracotta, pink, red… so here are some outfits using those tones in varying amounts- from big and bold to just a subtle hint (those pink Pumas!!!). I’m loving ALL of these and have almost everything in a cart waiting for me to just.hit.purchase (and then feel irresponsible and like I shouldn’t be buying more stuff in this insane economy but also I deserve a treat???)

New Erin Gates for Momeni Rugs Designs!

2025-05-15T17:56:22-00:00

I’m thrilled to share my latest collection of rugs with you – this time, we expanded our Orchard collection to include another all-over floral block print, a classic greek key, and a coastal vine stripe.

As with the Abbott collection, which launched last month, we photographed these rugs last summer in the gorgeous home of Anna Kesten of @mychicnest. The Leaning Flower in Green worked so well in her colorful, happy dining room, she kept it (you’ve probably seen some sneak peeks on her Instagram)!

LEANING FLOWER

We combined elements from our bestselling Ripple and Bloom rugs into one design, featuring the wavy border and an all-over floral motif.

Orchard Leaning Flower in Green

Orchard Leaning Flower in Ivory

GREEK KEY

This felt like a no brainer! Honestly surprised we didn’t try this sooner. The greek key design makes this rug feel a little more refined, but still features the texture and variation of jute. I just love this one.

Orchard Greek Key in Ivory

Orchard Greek Key in Brown

Orchard Greek Key in Blue

VINE STRIPE

More of a coastal vibe for this one – the coral-inspired stripes create texture and movement.

Orchard Vine Stripe in Blue

Orchard Vine Stripe in Ivory

I am so excited about these – hope you love them too!

All photos by Jessica Delaney. Thank you again to Anna for letting us photograph our rugs in your beautiful home!

Fashion Friday: Grown Up Gingham

2025-05-09T17:22:00-00:00

I’ve been seeing a lot of gingham this spring- from dresses to coats. A classic pattern at it’s heart, and one I think we associate with summer, it can at times feel a little juvenile or sweet. But here are some picks from this season’s best versions of the pattern that feel totally grown up and dare I say, elegant and cool?

Fashion Friday: Practical Summer Shoes Roundup

2025-05-02T15:18:20-00:00

Last night I went into the city for a fundraiser and wore what used to be my “comfy” strappy high heels. Now, granted, I had to walk from the parking garage to a restaurant and then several blocks to the event, but normally (in my, what we shall now recall as “youth”) I can do that no problem. Well ladies, not anymore. My feet were killing me by the time I got to the party, never mind at the end and continuing this morning. Woof.

I have entered the “cute but practical” stage of shoe life. Yes, here we are. No more “I could run a mile in stilettos” for me. I want cute but practical shoes. Ones that don’t get stuck in between bricks on a sidewalk and practically amputate your foot mid-stride, that I can wear with relative comfort and go with more than one outfit. My whole closet is brown, nude, black and gold and I’m not mad about it for the most part.

Welcome to my brown/beige, block heel/wedge, sneaker/sandal era! Join me, won’t you?

Trends I will not be participating in even though they fit the comfort bill: fishermen sandals, jelly sandals and most certainly, jelly fisherman sandals. All of those are left to Emma’s age group, in my humble opinion.

Trends I WILL be welcoming: rivets/studs/embellishments on basic sandals, raffia/open weave and mesh ballet flats, Birkenstocks (never thought I’d be back here).

Shoes Above To Note:

While I did say no stilletos, if I were to get a pair, it would be THESE. OMG I love them so much and they have a caged toe and an ankle strap so they may not be hideously uncomfortable. I’ve been eyeing these for a year!
These are the block heel version of the painful ones I wore last night. They still have great leg lengthening, match anything benefits at a lesser cost.
While I don’t typically spend crazy money on designer shoes, sometimes it IS worth the investment. I have a pair of Chanel espadrilles I bought 3-4 years ago I still wear all the time- they are comfy, classic and made so well. So I would consider buying these or these as I know I’d wear them to death.
I love the classic brown sandal with a twist- either a gold sculptural detail or this lucite block heel. Something that is a classic but elevated and a little bit fun.

My Disney World Review & Tips

2025-04-28T20:49:31-00:00

We returned Saturday from 4 nights in Orlando to take our kids to Disney. The last time we went there was the week prior to the pandemic shutting down the world in March of 2020 when Henry was 4 and I was 6 months pregnant with Emma. I have THE most fond, magical memories of that trip – 1) it being the first time at Disney as a parent with a little boy who was blown away by the magic of it all and 2) it being the last trip we had as a family of three and also before the entire world changed.

This time was a little different. We used the same playbook essentially to slightly different results – I think partially because taking TWO kids of different ages and interests (and therefore different agendas) is very different than just one child, and also we are just different people with more stress in a very chaotic, scary world. So while it was a good trip with great parts, I’m not sure we will return to Disney anytime soon. As anyone who has been knows it is A LOT. Of everything.

The splash pool at the Four Seasons.

I reached out last minute for help planning as it got too overwhelming for me and a longtime follower and friend of a friend Gina George (IG @yourgeniegina). I got SO MANY recommendations from you guys that I was also overwhelmed by that alone! There are tons of great planners, but Gina knows about our family from being a longtime follower and was so helpful- buying our park tickets, recommending types of “extras”, rides for each kid, booking our Lightning Lanes early morning and was available during the trip for questions. The one thing I will say is that if you are planning to stay at a Disney World Resort pick your planner first and let them book you as they get paid from those bookings and therefore most do not charge you to do your planning. If you book on your own / use miles to book, some planners will charge you for services as they don’t get their Disney commission. Still worth it, but just a heads up.

The lazy river at the Four Seasons

Speaking of, we stayed at the Four Seasons our first trip and I could not have raved more about it. And I still think it’s the best way to go if you are hoping for a little adult time/ vacation too as it is not crowded, not overly “Disney” and has great service, amazing pools/ kids clubs, spa and restaurants (including a Michelin star one). It is a relief to go back to a serene, theme free hotel after a day at the parks and not be assaulted by more Disney stuff! Our kids rushed to get back so they could have pool time there. They also do a great character breakfast that is so much nicer than those at the parks.

Character Breakfast at the Four Seasons

That said, there are some down sides to the Four Seasons. It is SO expensive. Like, the amount we paid for two regular rooms grosses me out. They did not connect, which was a pain in the ass. Also, if you stay at a Disney World Resort you get to buy your Lightning Lane passes 7 days prior to your visit, and for the Four Seasons it’s 3 days out. This means if you choose the option where you pre-book ride times, those times probably won’t be ideal and they may sell out prior your three day window (we had to change our planned day for Magic Kingdom because of this). Not a huge deal, but worth noting. If you are going to Disney to DO DISNEY- it may be better to embrace the chaos and stay at The Grand Floridian or Polynesian (both still pretty darn expensive BTW) for this reason and also the ability to easily get to and from the parks on the monorail or boat. From the Four Seasons you have to take a Lyft or MinnieVan, which can add more to the cost and is not as convenient. Also, your dining options are limited without taking another Lyft to Disney Springs or another resort, so we ate every night at the same place which got monotonous.

OK, onto the parks. First things first- no matter how old your kid is RENT A STROLLER. Not only to hold all your crap but no matter how old, they will start complaining about walking. DO not ignore this advice even if your kids is years out of using a stroller (Gina coordinated ours to be dropped off and picked up from the hotel). Secondly, I could not get over the ticket prices- essentially $800 a day for a family of four PER PARK without any “fast pass” upgrades. Eye watering.

Emma really got into her poses this trip… :)

Our first day we did Epcot because that is where the Frozen stuff is and Emma was laser focused on meeting Anna and Elsa. Also they had a princess lunch where she could meet a bunch of the princesses in one swoop and it was easier to book than the Magic Kingdom one (I missed the window on that). Epcot is HUMUNGOUS, I had forgotten, and a ton of walking for the kids with not many rides. We did the Lightning Lane regular passes for this so we pre-booked three rides but our times were really late in the day (5pm +) which sucked with tired little kids. I also spent half the day on my phone trying to re-book ride times and that was a bit stressful. Frozen Ever After and Guardians of the Galaxy (Andrew and Henry’s favorite ride of the entire trip at all three parks) had hour long waits and we did get to skip those long waits, which was worth it. The countries were fun to walk through though, and it was all and all enjoyable but a LONG, very hot day!

Princess Lunch at Epcot – again, Emma with the posing.

No need for a Christmas card photo this year…

Second day was Magic Kingdom. A lot of you messaged me to do VIP tours and I looked into it and WHAT IN THE CARTOON HELL!? I was quoted between $750-$900 an hour with a 7-8 hour minimum? How are y’all affording this??? :) LOL. I opted for the still expensive but FAR less so option of Premiere Lightning Lane (which means you do not have to pre-select ride times you just get to use the Lightning Lane at every single ride). This was SO, SO worth it. Transparently, it was an extra $1,500 for the day which is insane, I know, but compared to the VIP Tour, a fraction of the cost with the same perks and no stranger tagging along with you all day (that I assume you also need to tip). If you can, this is an amazing option that saved us hours at the park waiting (except to meet characters- those do not have Lightning Lanes!).

Meeting Cinderella finally!

Our last day we did Universal which was all for Harry Potter for Henry (and me, lets be honest). This was by far our most disappointing day. I paid for the Express Lane only to find out once I got there it did not apply to all rides, namely the ONE ride we wanted to do the most, Hagrid’s Motorbike- and that wait was 80-120 minutes ALL DAY, so we had to skip it as Emma couldn’t ride it and the wait would have been too long. Lesson learned- read the fine print. The Express Lanes were not super fast (they are half the posted wait times). They also split Harry Potter into two parts of the park so you have to buy tickets for BOTH parks for the day which feels like a scam. Diagon Alley was pretty amazing as was riding the Hogwarts Express, so that was great- but finding food for the kids felt like a real hassle (felt marketed to adults way more than kids) and doing both parks in one day was WAY too much. Also, most of the rides were for kids much bigger than Emma. I would advise you do Hollywood Studios instead if you have kids under 8-9. This park felt more Las Vegas than Disney.

One things that I noticed this time that I did not when I was a kid or even the last time we took Henry- every damn ride makes you exit through some kind of gift shop which causes so many arguments with the kids who want ALL THE THINGS! Can we not just have gift shops sprinkled throughout the park and not at the end of every ride? My lord, read the room- parents are tired and broke already!

WORTH IT for these smiles!

OK, I feel like I just did a lot of cathartic complaining, but I will say- it really IS so special to see your kids believe in make believe and get caught up in their sense of wonder and amazement. I absolutely loved seeing their little faces light up (even Henry at 9) when Mickey or Minnie came by or they got to ride on a super fast rollercoaster (Emma was a real bad ass with no fear- she only cried because she got wet on Splash Mountain/ Tiana’s Adventure). But I am truly in a stupor over how much this cost, even if we didn’t do the fancier options, and how many people do it day in and day out. You can go to Europe for far less. Mind blowing.

And don’t get me started on Disney Adults- I just don’t understand it and I don’t think I could even with a detailed explanation. Emma and I were standing behind an adult couple on their honeymoon waiting to meet Anna and Elsa for an hour and then talking to them like they were real people and getting all teary eyed… I locked eyes with Anna like “WTF?” but those character actresses are pros, my goodness :)

Best Things I Wore/ Brought:

Lightweight sunglasses.

Quilted fanny pack/ cross body

The most comfortable sneakers ever for all day walking. TRUST.

Tennis dresses (this one has built in shorts you can pull partly down to pee without disrobing completely!)

I put this sunscreen on under my makeup and did not get burned once any of the days! Amazed.

The best cushioned no show socks.

My all-time favorite sunscreen (use on the kids too).

I did not pack this, but as soon as I got home I took a long soak with my fave epsom salts.

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

2025-04-18T12:14:09-00:00

A quick round up of great ideas for Mother’s Day, which will be here before you know it! Click images except for the following linked here: monogram lip balm case // painting // greek key ring // token bracelet

Of note:

The CUTEST, chicest gift baskets ever? This one also.

End of the world go bag, but make it CHIC, baby.

If she loves Monet, these mini water lily inspired abstract pieces are amazing.

My favorite packable sun hat for the summer months

Also, the inlay style of my Heirloom Collection with M.Flynn is on sale today!!! It’s SO good, check it out.

Most relaxing, uplifting, minty box of bath goodies!

Grab a bunch of spring blooms from the grocery store and pop in this perfect vase.

Spring Refresh at Gates & Co.

2025-04-14T15:53:11-00:00

Just in time for spring entertaining (and Mother’s Day!), we have new tabletop decor from The Flynn Collection and art from Chelsea Sommerfeld!

LILY COLLECTION

The Lily Collection by Chelsea Sommerfeld

I love the color and movement in these pieces by Chelsea Sommerfeld. We have several framed canvases, and two small works on paper (that have the option to be framed!).

MARBLED PLACE CARD HOLDERS

The Flynn Collection made these adorable place card holders for us in a few of our favorite marbled papers. These card holders are such a great gift, and can be used for little signs on your bar cart, to hold a photo on your desk, or as a place card holder.

Marbled Place Card Holder in Blue

Marbled Place Card Holder in Multi

Marbled Place Card Holder in Pink + Blue

These are available in sets of four, and we have limited quantities right now. We will have more available in the coming weeks!

I also wanted to remind you that we have a few napkin sets left – all look great paired with these place card holders :)

Linen Wavy Embroidered Napkins

Fashion Friday: Best Jeans

2025-04-11T15:43:27-00:00

Here’s a new “top nine”- this time, my favorite jeans. Now these are just MY personal favorites, a mix of price points and styles (although no barrel legs or extra huge baggy ones because I just don’t wear that style!). These are all good classics that I reach for again and again. A few honorable mentions at the bottoms too! Click images for links except for one (linked below)

Top Row: best flare // best cropped skinny // best 70’s vibe/patch pockets

Middle Row: best luxury dupe // best cheap denim ($29 today!) // best affordable straight

Bottom Row: best wider leg // best cropped trouser // best semi-skinny (wider at ankle which I love)

HONORABLE MENTION:

Moussy Vintage– the BEST washes but “hard” denim, if you know what I mean. Not the comfiest, but I adore how they are made, and the fits are all relaxed but not TOO relaxed. Selling an amazing pair on my Poshmark I bought by mistake one size too large!

What are your fave denim brands and cuts?

Also, please leave requests for best nine/ top ten round ups for home, beauty and fashion you want to see!

New Erin Gates for Momeni Rugs!

2025-04-10T19:26:07-00:00

So excited to share my new Abbott Collection with Momeni Rugs is finally available! These designs are a bit of a departure for us in terms of pattern and color, but, as always, the inspiration for each design came from our interior design work (where we continue to incorporate more unexpected color pairings) and classic vintage rug designs.

The Abbott Collection specifically draws inspiration from vintage Turkish Kilims. We worked with the Momeni team to reinterpret these classic designs with modern, sophisticated color palettes in a durable wool tufted construction. And while we wanted to have several fun & colorful options, we also wanted to have varied neutral options, so there’s something for every space in your home.

We photographed these rugs in the gorgeous home of Anna Kesten of @mychicnest. The mix of pattern and color she has in her home was a perfect fit for the playful hues and patterns in the Abbott collection.

BASKETWEAVE

Basketweave in Neutral

Basketweave in Blue

DIAMOND TRELLIS

Diamond Trellis in Neutral

Diamond Trellis in Blue/Green

Diamond Trellis in Pink/Blue

ZIGZAG STRIPE

Zigzag Stripe in Neutral

Zigzag Stripe in Blue/Green (also going in Emma’s room!)

Zigzag Stripe in Pink/Blue

A few of these styles are backordered, but should be arriving in the next few weeks!

All photos by Jessica Delaney. Thank you again to Anna for letting us photograph our rugs in your beautiful home!

Sparking Joy (or at least trying to).

2025-04-08T20:49:40-00:00

It’s been a while since I sat down to really blog and share some thoughts with you all, and that is due to two reasons- one of which is that we are really busy with some exciting big projects that are full steam ahead (a very good problem to have). And those projects need a lot of my attention, and require some travel. The second is, well… the world feels like its on fire and frankly, that makes motivation in short supply as far as sharing a lot on social media- be it personal or professional. We also have not had time to photograph a lot of our new work that is not in the book coming out in September, so I haven’t had a lot of content ready to go either, and creating content can be a full time job on it’s own. And reposting angry/funny memes, while occasionally cathartic, hardly a “influencer” makes. All in all, “overwhelmed” is a good term for how I’m feeling about everything top to bottom right now.

The past few months (and more acutely, the past 2 weeks) it’s been hard for me to focus and feel positive due to external forces, and its obviously a feeling that lots of us are having right now. The onslaught of sad, upsetting and negative news (coupled with the worst rainy, grey weather and you know, all that motherhood and marriage entails) has left me feeling downright drained. My job is to create beauty for those I work for and with, and right now things aren’t feeling very darn beautiful to me. I have spurts of being really excited and inspired, and then slogs of feeling like pretty discouraged and scared of where this world is heading, which affects everything I do. Its hard to find consistency in so much uncertainty and beauty in the ugliness.

So what do we do? What can I do? Turning off social media for me is not possible, but limiting my use of it is- and I need to be much better about that. Staying informed still, of course, but engaging in a meaningful way- not doom scrolling to zone out or get myself MORE mad. Being better about being present with my kids helps me too, as does making plans with friends, getting outside when it’s nice to take a walk, rage run, or just meander with Beans. Watching a totally escapist show, movie or reading a really good thriller always allows me to check out a bit. But this feeling like everything is a mess and the future is hazy has oddly helped me live a little bit less cautiously- hey, why not just buy that bag I’ve been eyeing, take that little weekend trip, get the ice cream cone, take the gummy? You know, stop overthinking everything and worrying that the bottom will fall out. It already kind of has, and within that -if you can find it- is a tiny bit of room to let go.

Obviously I am aware there is privilege in that way of thinking and living, and that people are absolutely struggling to even make ends meet, or watching their 401k dissipate, as well as many of their human rights. But in order to do the work we need to do- professionally, personally and as a collective country- we need to maintain a sense of joy and pleasure in our daily lives or else we will all be too burnt out to really fight when it counts. I feel myself walking that line now and want to course correct, for my sake and that of my little family and community. It’s something I fail at one day and do better at the next- or even minute to minute, honestly. But bringing a tiny spark of joy into your day- through your home, wardrobe, social calendar- is essential right now. So here are a few things that spark a little joy- the uncomplicated material kind- from a counter spray that makes me want to clean to chic sandals with fun details and everything in between. It’s the little things, after all.

My Patio Renovation: The Ideas

2025-03-25T18:11:44-00:00

A shot of our patio looking nice from a Frontgate partnership a couple years ago.

As you may have seen on Instagram, I’m kicking off a patio renovation next week so it’s ready for summer, and we are SO excited. We LIVE outside in the summer, and our old brick patio desperately needs to be replaced, as well as the plantings around it. We’ve sketched out an idea of what we want for our contractor, including a large space with built in gas fire put and a short stone wall dividing the patio from the yard. This will give us room for dining, sofas/a sectional and a couple chaises.

The real state of our old brick patio….

We initially wanted to add a gunite pool down behind our barn – which has two lower bays that would have easily been made into a pool house – but the quote was astronomical, as they have been lately in this area. Adding to the cost of labor is the cost of the retaining walls we would need to build to create a level pool, of course made of fieldstone, and the patio deck itself, also stone. Plus 6′ high fencing around the property, running water and gas, new landscaping… it was basically the cost of another house, to be honest, so we abandoned those plans, and instead focused just on the patio for now.

And yes, many of you sent me messages about Soake Pools, and we did consider one up by the patio. We may add one, but the costs are already pretty high so I’m not sure it’s in the cards, as much as I’d like it to be! We have friends who have these and LOVE them, and our kids would be thrilled and we’d probably use it a lot, but being financially responsible is one of those annoying qualities I have and this adds on another 80k so… sorry kids. Inflatable pool it is for you :)

Anyways, I’m firming up the plans and drawings, which I will share, but right now I’m trying to envision it done and what I’ll use to dress it up :). This is the fun stage before any equipment digs up the yard! Here are two slightly different looks I’m toying with – one a little more contemporary/sleek and another more traditional.

The patio itself will most likely be done in Silver Ridge granite or Blue Mist granite. We of course wanted Bluestone but have been advised by a few people that it conducts SO much heat it can be unbearable to walk on in the summer (and this patio will get direct sun). So these stone looks a bit like Bluestone but are a bit cooler and more durable. Below, Silver Ridge top and Blue Mist bottom.

Silver Ridge

Blue Mist

Click images for links!

I do love a good outdoor sectional, so this fits the bill. Also, being someone who is terrible about taking cushions in or covering furniture, these mesh chaises are actually great (and keep you cooler in the summer).

This version leans ever so slightly more English Garden with the black metal additions and painted wood planters. Not quite as “comfy” feeling, but very pretty and polished. Same dining set in both options as I already have those chairs and they are great!

Which do you prefer? Any tips from your own patio renovations you think I should hear? Share away!

Fashion Friday: Nine Best White Tees & Tanks

2025-03-22T02:02:26-00:00

As I clean out my closet and drawers for spring, I like to replenish my white tees and tanks – they always seem to get stained and gross after constant wear all year. A great white tee or tank is an essential, and while I do like a nice high quality one (notably the Veronica Beard Jordyn tanks that are always sold out), my favorites are usually quite affordable, so you can get a fresh few every spring.

Click on images for links below:

1) Gap Modern tees have long been a fave and one I buy in multiple colors. The material is thicker and resilient and the fit is slim but not tight.

2) If you are looking for a snug cropped fit for layering, this one is great and under $10.

3) Everlane’s ribbed tees are thin, soft and fit close to the body. Another option for winter layers.

4) The VB tank that is literally perfect. Thick, perfect fit. Expensive, but stand up to lots of washes.

5) $7 for a classic slightly boxy tee perfect for the millenial front tuck? Can’t beat it.

6) The Gap classic vintage soft tee. Like your favorite worn tee short. Slightly loose, but not oversized.

7) The Gap modern tee with slightly longer fitted sleeve. A little more polished of a silhouette.

8) I have this tee in many colors and multiples in white and black! Such a great fit- cropped and slightly boxy but not belly baring, I just love it. Can get it with a pocket or not too!

9) A double lined white tank- great for a non-sheer option with a little added coverage. And also $8 so you can buy in bulk.

Honorable mention for this Uniqlo tee I have heard great things about but have not tried!

COVER REVEAL: Elements of Timeless Style!

2025-03-17T14:13:37-00:00

I finally can share the cover (and spine!) of my third book and here she is! Available for preorder NOW for the September 30th release date!

This book covers renovations or builds of nine homes we’ve done over the past 4-5 years, including my own “forever home”. Full of project takeaways, paint schedules, tips, tricks and more than 400 pages of new imagery, I really hope you love it!

And the spine – I never wavered form this concept since the day I signed my book deal. I know there are a lot of you who wanted/thought it would be leopard, but maybe we’ll save that for a box set :). The graphic nature of the greek key in this neutral linen and white palette suits any bookshelf or coffee table and adds a visual punch, much like book 1.

Preorder it today and I’ll see you on tour in the fall!

Fashion Friday: Disney World

2025-03-13T20:52:47-00:00

This April we are taking the kids to Disney World, as you may have seen on Instagram when I begged for referrals to Disney Planners. :) I got SO many that there is no way I could list them all here- which means it’s safe to say ANY certified Disney Planner is going to be super helpful. Many of you HIGHLY recommended doing wither Lightning Lane passes (doing) or private VIP tours (that cost I cannot stomach after seeing it, personally). But one thing I’ve been thinking about is packing smart but cute. This trip is for the kids, but also for us (we are staying at the Four Seasons Orlando which we stayed at in 2020 when we took Henry and it is AMAZING).

So anyways, I pulled together some looks that I personally am bringing or have in my cart to try out. For days in the park, I love a good tennis dress with built in shorts and sports bra type top. Throw a sweater over your shoulders for weather changes/ sun coverage and add cute sneakers and you look cute and are comfy (and can move freely without worry). I also love a good tank (this one is the BEST– thick, supportive and not too cropped- get it) and looser short combo. As much as I actually HATE shorts, they are kind of necessary for Disney in the spring. And a good small crossbody or backpack is a MUST.

For evenings, white jeans and a cute linen top (backless so grab these sticky things that actually keep your boobs up) and a statement shell necklace (re: Ariel). Or a cute polka dot jumpsuit that oh-so-slightly gives Minnie Mouse. Or perhaps a cute red dress with fun earrings (I have these cherries and always get compliments)- both with perfect match everything clear wedges (a must), a denim jacket and woven clutch. I am ANYTHING but a “Disney Adult”, but little nods to whimsy are fine by me. :)

A Touch of Red

2025-02-26T18:55:20-00:00

Photo by Michael J Lee

Years ago I would have told you that my least favorite color to decorate with was red. And up until recently, I was hard pressed to use it in abundance in any other spaces than a kids room or perhaps a family room (like the one above, which we did years ago!). However, lately I’ve been falling for red – both in design and fashion. I’ve never shied away from it in my wardrobe, but even more so right now I’ve been drawn to it – from deeper wines to bright, fiery tones. I even added a new red color way to my bedding collection because I could not find a perfect red!

I’ve been growing to like it more over the years it seems, a couple years ago we did this study in which we painted all the paneling a deep true red and papered the walls in a grasscloth for contrast. A hint of blue in the roman shades is a great complement (as you can tell, adding blue with red is one of my favorite pairings).

And of course, Henry’s old room, which I still love so much had a great dose of red.

So we’ll see if any clients let me run with my newfound love of red in 2025! In the meantime, some red finds for your closet and home:

My Kassatex Ripple Bedding Collection – in New Colors!

2025-02-19T16:55:37-00:00

We’re so excited to share that my Kassatex Ripple Bedding Collection is now available in two new colorways – Poppy Red and Navy Blue!

I’ve been looking forever for the right shade of red for the bedding in Henry’s room, and I believe we’ve nailed it. The Poppy Red is the ideal balance of classic and playful.

And while the Poppy Red is great in a kids room, it also works SO well in a grown up space. To illustrate my point, I put together a design scheme featuring the Poppy Ripple Collection. Much to my own surprise, I’ve been incorporating more and more red into our client designs – it feels so fresh and current.

Click the images for links!

I also wanted to share a pretty scheme using the new Navy Ripple, which is so classic. Click the images for links – except for the Kristin Blakeney art, which you can see here.

Thanks for your continued support – can’t wait to see how you style the Poppy and Navy in your own homes!

Fashion Friday: Vacation Mode

2025-01-31T17:44:48-00:00

In a few weeks we are taking the kids on a nice little tropical vacation for their winter break and it cannot come soon enough. However, I did a mega purge after the summer of my warm weather clothes and have to get a few new things for this trip – so selfishly I created this roundup of outfits for my own shopping purposes :) Hopefully you too can find time to get away somewhere sunny (if you don’t already live in such a climate), or maybe these pieces just help you dream of warmer days to come. Happy Friday. XO

Click images for links.

Valentine’s Day Edit

2025-01-28T19:45:05-00:00

A few goodies – from dresses to paper party supplies – for my favorite pink and red holiday (I threw in some tortoise and leopard for good measure – the perfect complements to red).

Click images for links.

New Years Refresh

2025-01-09T19:19:04-00:00

With each new year comes a desire to refresh – not just your habits or your life, but your home as well. I think this desire is pulling people two ways these days aesthetically- streamlined and neutral, or cozy and colorful. Here are some finds – from Target to antiques, that can accomplish either (or both!) Click images for links!

SERENE & STREAMLINED

COLORFUL & COZY

What Is Modular Furniture?

2024-12-19T16:28:59-00:00

A home bursting with style and personality all starts at Ashley. Modular furniture can take your creativity to the next level. With modules that can be combined in different ways or used separately, this modern solution provides countless opportunities to personalize your look. From modular leather furniture to modular furniture for small spaces, these iconic […]

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Fave Buys of 2024

2024-12-12T19:51:18-00:00

Looking back on 2024 my favorite buys were either really big or relatively small. Not a whole lot in the middle. And if I’m being honest, my two favorite things I spent money on were trips- to London and New York City (with Henry alone), and with that knowledge I am heading into 2025 focusing more on experiences than things (we are already booked to take the kids to the Domincan Republic and Disney World!)

But here are some things I found to be worthy purchases (or things I found myself buying multiples of which is the sign for me that it’s good!)

By FAR the best thing I did in my kitchen renovation was go with this La Cornue induction range. I LOVE THIS THING. It has been so reliable, so easy to use and clean to clean up and bakes perfectly. It’s also freaking gorgeous to boot! 10/10 stars.
The very out of character decision to throw caution to the wind and go see Taylor in London was THE best money I spent. More of this in 2025.
I got new glasses and I love them. This is the pair I reach for every morning.
To be fair, I did not BUY the Droplette, it was sent to me, but I have bought refill capsules (growth factors, glycolic and collagen) for this because I felt like it actually helped my skin. My derm said the science behind it is legit. On sale today for $99! Great gift!
The best product I have found for my hair. Lightweight, smoothing, protecting. Bought thrice.
My Athena bracelet. I wear it every day.
The Homecourt Cece candle. Really great scent (sort of Santal-ish) and packaging. Makes a great gift too.
I bought this Celine bag second hand and I’m SO glad I saved almost half the retail price as it came with only a couple minor scratches and I scratched it all up within a week anyways (I’m not precious with my things, I actually use them)! It’s a great size and shape for traveling (phone, sunglasses, lipgloss and a small wallet).
I just got the Flamingo Estate book and I LOVE IT. I’m not even done yet and it’s made the list. The interviews are fascinating and it’s very inspiring! Giving this as a gift this year to friends.
I bought this other version of my favorite eye palette this year and love it just as much as the original! It’s on sale today for $20!
This cardigan/jacket from Tuckernuck. I have in ivory and then bought the black. Reminds me of a much pricier one, and I actually think it looks better on.
My new favorite mascara, discovered this year! Makes lashes SO bold and curled yet not clumpy. And it’s clean. Sephora is 20% off today!
Believe it or not I did not have a big boat and tote until I got Beans (another fave purchase of 2024). I now bring this to work everyday with my purse in it, whatever dog supplies I need and lots of other stuff.
This is so silly, but I fell in love with this surface cleaner after they sent it to me to try (I ordered a bunch for the house). It smells SO good and makes me happy when I use it (yes, happy while cleaning!)
This sweater was a great find- high neck, cozy yarn, great cut. I got so many compliments when I first wore it I looked into another color. I also LOVE this cardigan I bought from them too!
These sneakers– wore to death. both with jeans and leggings.
My favorite vase. Perfect for one bunch of flowers- adds a cool vibe to the room to boot. Also a great gift.
This little stool/ table I put next to my freestanding tub- it’s flat on one side so it sits right up close to the tub and is perfect for a glass of wine or bubble bath.

2024 Wrapping Paper Palettes

2024-12-04T20:23:05-00:00

I adore wrapping gifts- I know, it’s odd, but I really love paper and ribbon and little gift card pairings so much- it just delights me. I occasionally had a job at holiday time wrapping gifts at my family’s store in CT, so perhaps it’s in my blood. Here are some faves I found this year- the only one not linked in the collage is the amazing intaglio paper you can find HERE.

Tufted Furniture

2024-12-02T20:54:15-00:00

Not all of today’s trendy furniture features a unique new design. Some of the most distinctive pieces available from Ashley connect to the past through styles that hearken back to previous centuries. Our top-selling tufted furniture designs are a great example of this demand for a classic look. If you’re not sure if tufting is […]

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Gift Guides 2024: Under $100 & Stocking Stuffers

2024-12-02T20:15:09-00:00

The final guide this year is Under $100 (and some stocking stuffers). So many good things here for so many different people in your life- from adults to little kids. And with so many crazy sales going on right now, hurry up and snag those deals. Two items that are not linked in the collage are the Schumacher apron and the personalized storybook (Henry is OBSESSED with his he’s had for years!)

The rest of the gift guides for this year are below:

How to Make a Bedroom Cozy for Winter

2024-12-02T17:56:08-00:00

Cold winters create the perfect opportunities for snuggling up in a cozy bedroom. Creating a winter retreat in your own bedroom space doesn’t have to require a major overhaul of the entire decor. A few updates here and there can transform the room, no matter your budget. Deciding how to make a bedroom cozy is […]

The post How to Make a Bedroom Cozy for Winter appeared first on XO Ashley.

Types of Chairs: Your Guide to the Perfect Chair

2024-12-02T15:45:07-00:00

Finding the perfect chair goes beyond having a place to sit. On the fundamental level, comfort, ergonomics, support, and durability are key to the ideal chair. But of course, we can’t forget style! On the hunt for the best chair for every room in your space? Check out our guide to the perfect chair to […]

The post Types of Chairs: Your Guide to the Perfect Chair appeared first on XO Ashley.

Wayfair Black Friday/Cyber Monday Picks!

2024-12-02T14:42:16-00:00

With so many sales going on and so few weeks in between Thanksgiving and Christmas it’s hard to keep track of what’s happening when! But don’t worry, Wayfair has extended their Black Friday sale into Cyber Monday for us with tons aopf awesome pieces to gift or for your own home! They asked me to round up some of my favorite picks from the sale (which include a lot of my own product lines and everything from a great faux tree to pretty organizing bins!) Click images for links! And see more on IG!

*This post was sponsored by Wayfair and contains affiliate links. All selections and opinions are my own.

Fashion Friday: Six Awesome Holiday Looks

2024-11-29T13:20:38-00:00

When I finished putting these all together I thought “ummm, add to cart? All of it?” Alas, that would be financially irresponsible and also, I have only a couple holiday parties this year. However, I do love these looks- from the casual “out running errands” ones to the more fun and festive. I also included the key makeup product for each look from my arsenal of faves. Click images for links.

So many of these items are on sale as it is obviously Black Friday! Some to note: Tuckernuck (20-30% off your whole order), Shopbop (25% off sitewide), Terrain (best holiday decor), Over the Moon(20% off almost everything), Jayson Home (20% off sitewide). If you are looking for the rest of my gift guides here they are so far (Under $100/ Stocking Stuffers coming Monday!)

Gift Guides 2024: For Her

2024-11-27T14:55:29-00:00

This is a tricky one! There are SO many things I love, and yet which make good gifts?? So I tried to be thoughtful about it in that way – for example, pairing some cute coupes with a dressed up bottle of bubbly, or a cozy (and affordable) cashmere sweatsuit with a Kindle holder and remote for the reader who wants to keep her arms under a warm blanket while reading! Click on images for links, except the following:

*subscription to Frederic magazine (for the design enthusiast) // my new shield charm (for a charm bracelet or on a chain- engrave an initial!) // my Athena bracelet

Also check out my other guides so far:

OUR OFFICE WISH LISTS

Best Holiday Decor & Faux Greenery

2024-11-25T20:37:43-00:00

Afloral’s high quality Norfolk garland above.

One things I’ve done over the years is put my holiday decor in two camps – faux and fresh. I’ve invested in really good faux garland for the stairs, the family room mantle and interior wreaths, as the shedding of dried garland in high traffic areas makes me crazy. We also have a faux tree in the family room where the kids and pup play and most ornaments are non breakable as well. We have a decent faux tree, but next year I plan to invest in a really good one for long term (Frontgate and Balsam Hill have the best ones…). In our formal living room I do real garland and a real tree – our ceilings are nearly 11 feet in that room and it allows Andrew to get his dream super tall tree.

As we head into December, I have rounded up some of the best faux greenery and other fun accents for the home for the holidays to help you narrow it down (nothing sadder than a really bad fake, in my opinion!). This year I’m going for a magical British countryside kind of look… :)

The start to our decor using Terrain’s pinecone garlands and bell garlands. More to come!

Gift Guide Extra: Bombas Slippers & Socks

2024-11-23T19:37:13-00:00

I’ve never been a slipper girl, but ever since getting Beans, our new puppy, they have become a necessity as I have to take her out multiple times at night and in the morning and cannot go barefoot. Enter my new Bombas slip on sherpa slippers (which Beans also tries to steal and eat too- luckily Bombas has a Happiness Guarantee and will make even that right, believe it or not!)

I also have swapped almost all my socks for Bombas styles– running, casual no show for sneakers and some tall ones for boots. At this age, good socks thrill me. :)

Henry and Emma LOVE slippers, so I got them both some new slip on bootie knit versions they love (with the “grippy” bottoms so Emma can dance her pants off and not slip). Henry, my sweet old soul, also MUST wear socks to bed- he calls them “sleeping socks”- and they must be low calf/ ankle height and form fitting. So these fit the bill perfectly. I also cannot keep up with if the cool kids are wearing socks that are high or low these days, but Henry is still in his high calf striped socks phase and I adore these for him.

And good news, right now Bombas is 20% off!So here are my gift picks for Bombas this season-where they give back for every pair you buy, which I think is especially important this year. Click images for links.

This post was sponsored by Bombas. All product selections and opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Gift Guides 2024: For Him

2024-11-22T15:25:58-00:00

Guys are typically either really easy (maybe they have a hobby they go all in on) or really hard (they just buy themselves what they want year-round) to buy for, but I think I found some great ideas this year! I mean, all my male clients want a smart toilet…! Of course, any genius ideas of your own for gifts are always welcome in comments too!

Gift Guides 2024: Office Wish Lists

2024-11-21T14:54:25-00:00

Today we’re sharing our own wish lists… something for everyone – even the office pups! Click images for links (or see below for direct links).

Diamond Trefoil Necklace | Green Trellis Mug

Wool V-Neck Sweater | Canon AE-1 35mm Film Camera | Zara Double Sided Short Jacket

Nantucket Bracelet in Natural Woven Cuff

Gift Guides 2024: For Home

2024-11-18T20:06:09-00:00

This category is hard because I could go on FOREVER. Of course I could suggest my own books, and go buck wild with crazy expensive stuff, but I don’t think that’s what most of you are here for (if it is, there will be an investment buys gift guide coming up!)… So, here are some great finds, most under $250, for the home. I always love a good pairing, like cocktail glasses with a fun mixer, mugs with some nice coffee or tea, or monogrammed napkins and napkin rings – all of those always a winner and great for a housewarming gift as well if you are traveling for the holidays and want to bring something.

Also, we have a couple great things left in our holiday shop – original art, the perfect vases for everyday and cute napkins (we are trying to get more holiday candles – yet again they went FAST).

Finally, if you are in town this Thursday and curious about working with Framebridge (my favorite easy to use framing source) they are opening a store in Wellesley and I am hosting a little cocktail reception from 5:30-8! They have GREAT options for gifts of framed pictures – always a hit with the grandparents!

This little ornament is such a good gift for under $30!

The 2024 Gates & Co. Holiday Collection is Now Available!

2024-11-15T15:00:00-00:00

The Gates & Co. holiday collection is finally live! I’m sure you’ll want to get straight to shopping, so I’ll be brief and only share a few of my favorite items from this collection:

First – the BEST holiday candle is BACK! We also have gorgeous handmade marbled paper frames & ornaments from The Flynn Collection, artwork, including pieces by Tessa Brown, Holly Coble, and Laura McCarty, bud vases by Wren Pottery, paper geraniums by PaperBloomery, and more!

Happy shopping!

Gift Guides 2024: For Kids & Teens

2024-11-12T17:28:41-00:00

Kicking off this year’s holiday gift guides with kids and teens. These are a mix of things my kids love or have asked for, and polling of kids we know. All images are linked except the electric guitar (that Henry asked for!), which is linked here.

Lots of good discounts and sales coming out really early this year so I’m trying to get a head start!

Fashion Friday: Fall Outerwear Looks with Evereve

2024-10-30T15:56:30-00:00

Coats and outerwear are my obsession living in the northeast – I have so many and always am looking for more. I found these two new pieces on Evereve that are two styles I’m very into right now – plaid wool toppers and faux fur ANYTHING. A jacket or vest is a great way to add extra style to a very basic outfit- such as these two simple all black looks I’m wearing here.

This plaid coat caught my eye immediately – the combination of warm and cool tones of sienna and cobalt looks SO fresh and new. I also LOVE these gold cap toe mary janes – they are so comfy straight out of the box.

Beans wanted to pop in and say hi to you all as well :)

This second look is perfect for a simple dinner out or drinks with girlfriends. And let me tell you… I am a bit of a faux fur connoisseur, and this vest is the best I have ever seen. I honestly was concerned it was real rabbit when I got it. It would look amazing with anything this fall – jeans and sneakers even. And these boots are fantastic and a great price- comfy but with height and a perfectly pointed toe.

This lace tee is actually lightly lined in the body so it’s slightly sheer but not totally see through, which is nice. A fun piece to layer with!

SHOP THE POST:

This post was sponsored by Evereve, all selections and opinions are my own. This post includes affiliate links.

Curio Cabinets

2024-10-30T15:31:18-00:00

You can display family heirlooms, prized collections, or favorite works of art without having to worry about the risk of damage or constant dusting

The post Curio Cabinets appeared first on XO Ashley.

Molecule Mattresses

2024-10-23T15:46:10-00:00

Are you in the market for a new mattress and are unsure what makes a Molecule Mattress stand out from the rest? Molecule mattresses don’t just look nice. Underneath the aesthetics, Molecule uses science to help customers get the right type of recovery-focused sleep for their lifestyle.

The post Molecule Mattresses appeared first on XO Ashley.

Warming Up

2024-10-21T17:53:39-00:00

I am so drawn to all warm tones right now – a clear departure from the cooler blues and greys we’ve become accustomed to. Anything leaning more brown, caramel, sienna or plum is calling my name – and retailers seem to agree. There are so many great products launched recently all in this palette, perfect for fall. And while you won’t catch me dead with any seasonal pillows in my house, I do sometimes pop in the occasional seasonal throw (wool plaid or faux fur right now, lighter cotton/linen blend in the summer) and do advocate for adding something velvet during the colder months if you don’t have it year round (which I do).

Some faves right now that I’ve spotted across the interwebs:

only item not linked in the image is my new wallpaper which you can purchase HERE.

3rd Annual M. Flynn + Gates & Co. Shopping Event!

2024-10-17T17:10:49-00:00

So excited to announce that we will once again host a holiday shopping event here in our studio in Wellesley next month! If you’re local, please come by on Thursday, November 14 to shop my collection with M. Flynn, as well as new pieces from the Gates & Co. holiday collection.

Space is limited, so make sure to send your RSVP to rsvp@eringatesdesign.com.

This event will be your chance to shop in person before many of these pieces become available online. In addition to M. Flynn jewelry, we will have our best-selling holiday candles & small tabletop accessories, one of a kind marbled paper frames and ornaments from The Flynn Collection, hand-crafted paper geraniums from Paper Bloomery and original framed artwork available, including pieces by Tessa Brown, Holly Coble and Laura McCarty.

PS – if you don’t live locally, don’t worry! The Gates & Co. holiday collection will be available in the shop on Friday, November 15.

Fashion Friday: Brown + Blue Wish List

2024-10-11T16:31:06-00:00

I’m a big fan of these colors together…in fact I just pulled a room together using these tones for a client and am smitten. I need some fresh fall clothes and these are the tings currently on my wishlist (I actually FINALLY bought the Loeffler Randall boots after 2 years of eyeballing them)!

As in fashion, goes interiors. Everything is symbiotic when it comes to current trends, color palettes and textures. This is why I always like asking people about what their favorite colors are to wear when we start working together. What people like to wear is also likely what they would like to live amongst!

Paint Colors + Our New Wallpaper

2024-10-10T16:27:03-00:00

Several of you have asked about what paint colors work with our new multi-toned patterns Oakcliff and Overbrook, so I paired each colorway with three tones that are pitch perfect, making it easy to update a room. There are many ways you can incorporate color into a room with wallpaper – you could paint the trim, the vanity in a bathroom, or maybe the back of a bookcase in room where the walls are done in these papers. I hope you find this helpful!

Now Available… My New Wallpaper Collection!

2024-10-07T16:40:47-00:00

I am so excited to share four new wallpaper designs are now available! For this newest collection, we worked with the A-Street Prints and York design teams to pull inspiration from vintage patterns, and updated the classic designs to be more modern, with refreshed color palettes in gorgeous neutrals and shades of green, blue, sandy taupe, chocolate brown and plum. Each of these patterns also features a subtle linen detailing to add warmth and texture. I truly love how the new designs came out – they’re elevated, sophisticated yet playful, and timeless – and I feel they are a true reflection of my aesthetic and interior design work. I cannot wait to see how they look installed in your homes!

Oakcliff

Oakcliff in Stone

Oakcliff in Sage

Oakcliff in Fog

Oakcliff in Sand

The timeless tranquility of deciduous trees is elegantly captured in this trailing branch design, inspired by a vintage pattern.

Edgemoor

Edgemoor in Sand

Edgemoor in Sage

A vintage-inspired winding floral trail is separated into wide stripes by narrow bands adorned with scalloped edges and geometric accents.

Frances

Frances in Sand

Frances in Sage

Frances in Fog

A frilled fishscale pattern frames charming floral block prints accented with delicate dots in this fanciful botanical design. The pattern is inked in white against either a warm sandy gray, a smokey green or a serene blue backdrop with linen detailing.

Overbrook

Overbrook in Sand

Overbrook in Sage

Overbrook in Plum

Petite block print bouquets are stamped in offset rows against soft white linen detailing to create a refined antique effect. Overbrook is available in three colorways: Sand (shades of taupe, tan and chocolate brown), Sage (shades of sage, sky blue and sandy taupe) and Plum (plum, light blue and sandy taupe).

You can view the full collection here! I hope you love it as much as I do.

Fashion Friday: Family Photo Outfits

2024-10-04T17:45:06-00:00

You guys have been asking for this, so here it is! This year’s family photo outfit roundups. I am going for the first look, “beige” as I bought this dress and love it. But I’m feeling all of these! Click images for links!

Great Bookshelf Accessories

2024-10-01T14:35:36-00:00

Something that chronically stumps our clients at the end of a project is styling bookshelves. A lot of them hire us to style and accessorize them in person, but for some, we just send suggestions of items we think will work well. Today I thought I’d pull together a selection of tried and true items we order again and again to fill in between books (P.S. the more hardcover books the merrier!). Mix in objects, art, great bookends, baskets and frames with the books (stacked in various directions) to make a bookshelf or built in feel full, complete and edited.

Click objects for links!

Would you guys like a list of our favorite coffee table books we use when styling? besides my own books, of course :)

Fashion Friday: Busy Mom Outfits (That Aren’t Leggings!)

2024-09-27T15:30:49-00:00

I’ve been asked several items for some looks for busy moms that aren’t athleisure so when Evereve asked to partner with me on a post I figured this was the perfect collab to highlight this request! I am someone who always gets dressed in the morning no matter what- it just helps me feel more put together and able to tackle whatever my to do list is that day. Some days it’s jeans and a tee and a bun in my hair, some days I make more effort. It’s hard to take to time (even 10 minutes) so consider your wardrobe in the morning when you have to pack lunch and get everyone out the door- but buying easy to wear pieces can help ease that and make you feel a little bit better.

For example, this look I’m calling “It’s 8:15 and Your Backpack Is Your Responsibility Lets Freaking GOOOOOO!!!”

Super stretchy flare jeans, a boot with a low/ comfy heel (loooove these), long sleeve ribbed tee and a plaid cropped jacket are as easy to throw on as leggings and a sweatshirt, promise. The blow out admittedly is not as easy, but one step at a time to feeling more polished while you ferry kids across town, right?

This second look is giving more “We have soccer and your sister has gymnastics simultaneously and we all need to hustle” energy. A soft faux leather bomber thrown on over a cool retro band tee with cropped denim (not too wide, not too skinny- juuuuust right) and some quilted cap toe flats (also would be cute with these sneakers) so you can carry everyone’s stuff/crying toddlers/run into the coffee shop in comfort.

Here are six more looks that are comfy, stylish and easy to put on (some complete with baseball caps for dirty hair days even!) Click images for links!

This post was sponsored by Evereve. All product selections, styling and opinions are my own. Contains affiliate links.

All About Nectar Mattresses

2024-09-24T12:17:27-00:00

Wondering if Nectar is the best choice for you? Today, we're sharing everything you need to know to upgrade your night's sleep with the Nectar bed.

The post All About Nectar Mattresses appeared first on XO Ashley.

Should You Sleep With Your Pets?

2024-09-23T14:32:03-00:00

With so many benefits to sleeping with pets, you may wonder why you would even question it. Still, there are some downsides to sleeping with pets to consider. Learn More.

The post Should You Sleep With Your Pets? appeared first on XO Ashley.

Colorful Furniture

2024-09-20T16:49:29-00:00

People are often wary when it comes to boldly-colored furniture, as colorful pieces can be intimidating and overwhelming. However, with our design tips and the stunning colorful furniture at Ashley, you can fall in love with color!

The post Colorful Furniture appeared first on XO Ashley.

Fashion Friday: Lounge & Athleisure

2024-09-20T16:30:33-00:00

I recently realized that almost all of my loungewear/ sweats are all garbage. I either have mismatched old sweats from random places or a couple cute but uncomfortable sets that I actually don’t wear (classic mistake of buying lounge pieces too small). So I need to cozy up to fall in some new cute loungewear and athleisure. I have a lot of workout clothes I can pair together- leggings and a cute sweatshirt are my Friday uniform, but those too need an update too. So here are some new finds (paired with sneakers) to help me (and maybe you) think about an update to that ol’ bottom drawer.

(Click the top half of image for the tops and the bottom section for the bottoms in most images!)

Timeless Floor Tile Roundup

2024-09-18T16:30:43-00:00

Picking tile can be daunting – especially if you have to do it for multiple bathrooms at once when building or renovating. We are often charged with creating schemes for multiple bathrooms on our projects. While we love the opportunity to pick a bold and custom tile, for a lot of people, simple, classic and not crazy expensive is the directive. Tile is not easy to replace, especially on floors, so I figured I would gather a selection of my favorite timeless choices all in one place – all available online. Of course, going to a local tile store or showroom is ideal, as seeing things in person cannot be beat, but sometimes the ease (and affordability) of buying online is great too!

This bathroom we did is a great mix of simple basketweave brought up a notch by a detailed border.

Sources: a. // b. // c. // d. // e. // f.

In this bathroom we used a larger format marble mosaic.

In the same house we chose a patterned porcelain floor tile for the powder room.

And nearby a faux brick tile for the laundry laid in a herringbone pattern with a stacked border.

In this primary we used a very simple elongated rectangle Carrara tile – a total classic.

In the kids bath we chose a smaller format marble mosaic in a parquet pattern.

In this beach house primary we paired a wood-look marble mosaic to the wood tone of the vanity.

In this kitchen we used a porcelain marble-look tile to create a checkerboard pattern. I would advise to buy porcelain marble-look tile ONLY in person. They can either looks super fake or pretty convincing and it’s impossible to tell the difference online!

Photography by Michael J. Lee, Jessica Delaney and Sarah Winchester.

Fashion Friday: All About Suede Accessories

2024-09-13T14:31:12-00:00

Akin to “florals for spring”, “suede for fall” is nothing groundbreaking. It’s always in, but this year it’s REALLY in. Especially in shoes, bags, belts and accessories. I am such a sucker for suede shoes – loafers, heels, boots – sign me up. They are soft, and textural and always add an element of coziness to an outfit. On my list for fall – a big suede bag and tall suede heeled boots (to cowboy or not to cowboy is the question). The one thing I’m struggling with is penny loafers… I was born in 1979 and that footwear is very closely associated with my tormented middle school years… so, we’ll see! Here’s a round up of my favorites thus far:

Tasteful Halloween Decor

2024-09-10T17:01:30-00:00

Image via Pottery Barn

I am normally not one for seasonal or holiday themed decor (obviously Christmas being an exception) – but Halloween has fast become my favorite holiday and time of year and I am HERE FOR IT, y’all. I actually get super into Halloween decor and have a good starting point, but need to add some more items to my cache of goodies. I decorate the exterior and interior of the house, and someday will have a big Halloween party for adults and kids, mark my words. So I went in search of good looking, not-cheesy Halloween decor and found a ton! I prefer to stay away from inflatables (much to my children’s disappointment) and anything too brightly colored. Keep it dark, keep it spooky with a hint of vintage and I will buy it.

Bed Makeover Ideas & Inspiration

2024-09-05T14:44:06-00:00

If you have expensive taste on a small budget, you can focus on a few simple upgrades to give the space a high-end appearance.

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Roundup: Vintage Area Rugs

2024-09-04T17:05:22-00:00

I love a good vintage rug! We use them constantly in our work for many reasons – because they add a sense of history and patina to a room, because they’re tough and hide myriad sins and spills, and also because they add a dose of tradition. I’ve used vintage rugs in every room in the house – from bathrooms to nurseries – but sourcing them can be intimidating. Real antique rugs can set you back tens of thousands of dollars for a large room size rug, and vintage ones sourced through the internet can be a crapshoot – what exactly will you find when you unroll that package that shipped all the way from Turkey!? I have a rug I need to unwrap right now in my foyer in fact! But we’ve had SUCH great luck on Etsy buying direct from overseas vendors so I’m here to encourage you to do your research (read reviews, message for more pictures in natural light, etc) but know that you can find such scores!

A vintage rug layered over a wool berber custom cut (similar) in a living room

A vintage rug in Emma’s first nursery (aww I loved this room!)

We ALWAYS love a good vintage runner in a kitchen

A bolder Heriz style in this study.

Here are some recent Etsy finds that all look amazing with great prices as well – click images for links!

A Guide to Stearns and Foster Collections

2024-09-03T14:13:07-00:00

Stearns and Foster mattresses deliver the perfect balance of quality and comfort for every support level and price point. Keep reading to learn more about our expansive Stearns and Foster collection and find the best option for you.

The post A Guide to Stearns and Foster Collections appeared first on XO Ashley.

Fashion Friday: Leopard Is A Neutral

2024-08-30T17:25:12-00:00

Image via Cara Cara’s new collection

Talk about something right in my wheelhouse… leopard is BIG this season, with so many labels crafting everything from shoes to dresses and kids clothing all in the perennially chic pattern. As one of my favorite all time patterns this thrills me to no end. So I had to do a round up of all things leopard!

The number of things here Emma is getting/already has is… overwhelming. :)

Labor Day Home Sale Round Up

2024-08-29T16:27:41-00:00

A few of my favorite home stores are having great Labor Day deals this week, so I rounded up some fall faves for you – and now I want EVERYTHING! It’s the dangerous part of this job – curating such goodness that I want to buy it all.

Of note:

Kassatex (my collection!)- 25% off orders over $200

McGee & Co- 25% off sitewide

Shoppe Amber Interiors- 20% off sitewide

Jayson Home- 15% sitewide

Pottery Barn- up to 60% off

Ballard Designs- up to 75% off

Chairish & One Kings Lane and Wayfair have lots of my collections on sale!

Fashion Friday: Are You Ready For It?

2024-08-23T17:44:39-00:00

I couldn’t help but use a Taylor pun, sorry.

Here we go – FALL SHOOOOOOPPPPPPPINNNNNG!!!!! (insert Oprah screaming meme here). As we embark on my ultimate favorite season I’m warming up with focus on warm tones (chocolate, plum, red, caramel), plaids/checks, textures like croc and suede and allllll the boots. Here are a few looks I want in my closet (and may have en route to myself now).

London Inspired

2024-08-22T16:57:15-00:00

Our trip to London to see Taylor was so great – perfect weather (every day was low 70’s-60’s and sunny!?), incredible hotel and great meals and sightseeing. I wish we had more time but it just means we need to go back, with the kids next time.

There were SO many recommended hotels to stay at in London it was hard to choose, but I wanted a classic English experience and knew Claridges would give that to me. And boy did it. The staff and service was amazing, the design perfectly British and our room- woah. Initially we had a balcony room overlooking some loud construction so we politely asked if there was any other room available. Not only did they get us a new room but it was an incredible upgrade (go look at all the rooms on their site, it’s so fun). 10/10 recommend.

We had a very fun, super delicious (and star studded) dinner at Gymkhana, ate at a couple cafes outside which were so lovely for lunch and then another dinner at Scott’s (lovely outdoor seating, but unfortunately surrounded by cigar smoking men, which kinda ruined it for me).

We did the V&A museum (so cool), Tower of London (sadly missed the Crown jewels because the line was insane), visited Kensington Palace and Diana’s memorial and walked around some shopping areas- sadly I did not make it to the design district- spent too much time at Liberty of London picking out an outfit for Emma I guess :)

And Taylor was- well, Taylor. I can’t say much more than it’s a life affirming experience to go to the Eras tour- especially in this modern time. Her work ethic, talent and love for her fans is so inspiring. And everything feels so happy and positive and kind when you are there. Worth the trip. I saved my pics to a Highlight on my Instagram!

Of course I was so endlessly inspired by the design, architecture, history and way everything feels more “special” in England – from getting a cup of coffee to a cab ride. After pouring through some British design magazines on the way home I decided my whole life needs to be more English :) Here’s a room design I pulled together inspired by my trip – a mix of very traditional and modern pieces swathed in a calm blush paint (Setting Plaster from Farrow & Ball, of course).

Links for : chair // coffee table // painting // sofa

New Living Room with The Lindyn Collection

2024-08-21T19:38:07-00:00

Our Lindyn Collection is essential to take your living space to the next level. Keep reading to learn more about the Lindyn Collection and how to complement your space, no matter your fave interior design style.

The post New Living Room with The Lindyn Collection appeared first on XO Ashley.

All About Bedgear Mattresses

2024-08-21T18:20:59-00:00

If you’re looking for a mattress that helps you stay cool, you may have found the perfect fit. A Bedgear mattress is a great choice for anyone looking for temperature regulation paired with both durability and unparalleled comfort.

The post All About Bedgear Mattresses appeared first on XO Ashley.

How to Choose a GhostBed Mattress

2024-08-21T13:14:42-00:00

Learn more about the types of GhostBed mattresses available to you. From memory foam to hybrid mattresses, pillows, and foundations, GhostBed has it all.

The post How to Choose a GhostBed Mattress appeared first on XO Ashley.

A Buying Guide for Scott Living by Restonic Mattresses

2024-08-13T15:24:44-00:00

Designed by Jonathan and Drew Scott, hosts of HGTV's "Property Brothers," Scott Living mattresses transcend many of their contenders with top-tier technology and standout features. From cooling comfort to personalized support, Scott Living mattresses are designed with your best night's sleep in mind.

The post A Buying Guide for Scott Living by Restonic Mattresses appeared first on XO Ashley.

How to Choose an Ashley Sleep Mattress

2024-08-13T13:36:07-00:00

With three distinct lines of Ashley Sleep mattresses, all of which are rigorously tested, you're sure to find the one that is best for your needs — and helps you get your best night's sleep. This Ashley Sleep comparison guide is here to help.

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Source Spotlight: Birch Lane

2024-08-12T14:59:52-00:00

Birch Lane has been killing it lately with some really amazing, classic finds that are truly timeless and, frankly, shockingly good! From great dining chairs reminiscent of a very high end design I’ve loved for years to gorgeous tabletop pieces, they are quickly becoming a go-to source for us for retail items when we’re looking to not spend a ton or skimp on style. Here are some of my favorite finds right now – and right in time for their Friends and Family Sale happening 8/9-8/13 with up to 40% off and free shipping!

My Personal Faves:

*This post was sponsored by Birch Lane. All selections and opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. Thanks for supporting those businesses that keep EOS going.

My Skincare Regimen

2024-08-09T20:51:45-00:00

I did get a lot of requests for my skincare regimen last week/ this week after discussing that I just turned 45. Y’all made me feel really good about myself commenting that I looked younger. I’ve been very focused on my skin the past couple years and have been doing A LOT to maintain some youthfulness- some of it “clean beauty” some just straight up toxins injected into my face :). It’s a balance, ladies.

Here is my full routine and I discuss more below- but you can click on most of these for links:

SKINCARE:

I have ride or die favorites I have been using forever- including the Tammy Fender face wash and EpiPeel as well as Roche Posay sunscreens, Follain mask and prescription retinol. I was a die-hard Augustinus Bader Rich Cream junkie but have found that this INN Beauty cream is a really close dupe and way less money (don’t worry I’m still spending stupid money on my skincare, just wait…) New favorites include this SkinCeuticals night eye cream, Fig. 1 Vitamin CE Ferulic (better version and less $$$ than SkinCeuticals) and this Paula’s Choice liquid exfoliant. As for those little capsules I use day and night…

GADGETS/ TOOLS:

I went to see my dermatologist, who is a great friend of mine as well, and she was looking at my skin (skin cancer checks every year, no skipping!) and she said “Your skin looks amazing what are you doing?” The only thing I’ve added to my routine in the past 3 months (she sees me often) was the Droplette. I was sent it to try and to be honest I thought it was a total gimmick. But I got the stem cell capsules (so expensive) as well as the collagen ones and IT WORKS. I don’t know how or why but something with NASA and MIT and whatever it is, I’m into it. I mentioned it to my derm and she said she had heard of it and the science behind it is legit- so I will stick with it. Also legit, red light LED masks if you use them EVERY DAY. I use mine almost every night, 2-3 cycles. I also use my gua sha in the morning, especially if I’ve been clenching my jaw at night! Feels so good.

PROCEDURES:

Creams can only go so far. Like I said, I see a trusted, award-winning medical dermatologist for ALL procedures. Shout out to SkinCare Physicians in Chestnut Hill, MA. You have to be very careful with medspas and make sure the people treating you have proper qualifications. That said, no gatekeeping here- this is what I do:

I metabolize Botox so fast- like 4-5 weeks and it wears off so I switched to Daxxify and it lasts a lot longer. I get injections in my masseter muscles for TMJ which has also slimmed out my face, my “11’s” (between my brows) and occasionally along my upper lip (I have a top lip that flips under when I smile and this makes it look fuller- they cal this a “lip flip” injection)
I’ve lost a lot of volume in my cheeks from age, weight fluctuations, stress, etc so I get Juvederm in my cheekbone area to add some natural volume. My doc is very conservative and refuses to do anything that looks fake and I love that about her. I tried lip filler once and hated it, so got it dissolved. I have some left in my lower lip a bit, but it was a “hydration” low dose, not a volume dose.
Once a year I get Fraxel- I’ve only done it twice but I will go again this fall (not looking forward to it, TBH). On top of evening out your skin tone and reducing wrinkles, it helps ward off skin cancer as well- it’s actually preventative! Skin cancer runs in my family so I do love this side effect of it. This year I tried Thermage on my lower face/ neck that was showing some laxity and I LOVE IT. Doesn’t hurt and it actually did tighten up my neck!

And that’s all she wrote. Let me know if you have products, gadgets or procedures you love! I’m all ears (and so is everyone else!).

45.

2024-08-06T19:05:06-00:00

Wow – that number kind of does something to me, more so than other early 40’s birthdays have. It feels like this is the real threshold to “middle age” – perhaps the doorway to actually being “older” in the eyes of society (or maybe that’s just me projecting, which I do tend to do). Of course, age is just a number, but for women around my age, it can often be a lot more than that. In your 20’s and 30’s things just bounce off you – nights out, too many glasses of wine, a tough workout, a bad day, hell, a bad year. Mid-forties? Not so much.

I walk the line of wanting more, bigger, better and at the same time slower, smaller and quieter. Each day brings a different vigor for life – some days not a whole lot, others I jump out of bed ready to tackle whatever I have on my plate. One day I’ll crush a workout, another I’ll drag myself into the gym just to go through the motions. I find myself desiring both growing my business and career but also considering what it would be like to just stop and write for a living. The rise and fall of my moods, energy, desire, focus are all fluctuating wildly. And thanks to Instagram, we are all hit over the head with why that is every time we scroll through the app. #perimenopause

And while that may be true, and I’m sure it is playing a role, some of that up and down is also because I chose to have children later in life. My therapist pointed this out so wisely the other day – that not only am I in the early stages of hormone decline but ALSO the incredibly busy stage of having very young children at the same time. As well as a busy full time job. This is what they call being “in the weeds”, fully and truly- no wonder I’m feeling pulled in 300 directions and systemically dysregulated. It’s a lot all at once. But while I am deep in the weeds, I also find I am much calmer than I had been earlier in life. Things that would completely throw me for a loop, make me really anxious or fly off the handle now don’t quite trigger the same response anymore. I’m hoping that it’s because I’m a bit wiser and know now that very little is actually “the end of the world”- or maybe I just don’t have the energy to devote to a full blown anxiety attack or trip down overthinking lane. Who knows, but it’s one of the more positive things about getting older I’ve found. That and not trying to wear heinous early 90’s fashion again because I did it the first time around.

Does all that mean I’m throwing in the towel and embracing aging? No. I’m literally laughing writing this as I recall my now 20 step skincare routine, appointment to get my greys covered this week and increasing dermatologist bills. No, no- I shall not be going quietly into this good night quite yet, folks! I’m doing ALL THE THINGS to slow down father time- I’m not ready to no longer be seen as youthful- that freaks me out a bit. I know it’s a losing battle, one that I hope I feel more prepared to surrender to in time, but just not yet. Am I going to regiment my lifestyle to be so strict that I can’t have fun just so I can see my abs better? Not a chance. I’ll eat all my protein, but I’ll be having wine and fries with it sometimes too.

But aging is not just about looks and health, it’s about doing something that makes you feel valuable and happy. I’ve accomplished a lot in 45 years that I am so proud of, but I have some regrets too. I was so careful and measured in my youth, trying to be the perfect girl in every way possible. Scared to make a mistake, scared to do something without thinking it through a thousand times first, scared of the act of exploration. But I’m going to try really hard to do that a little more now. Life is hardly over at 45! In fact, when our friends asked us to go to Taylor Swift in London a couple months ago, I first went into my overthinking spiral and then I stopped myself, bought some insanely overpriced tickets and booked a hotel I’ve always wanted to stay at. I literally said, fuck it. It’s just money, I can make more. It may seem silly to you, but the act of just DOING that without making a pro-con list and making sure it was fiscally responsible is a pretty big start for me! This year I want to take more trips, experience more, worry less and be more grateful for what I have and have done.

So here’s to being “of a certain age”. Here’s to figuring out how best to take care of yourself and your people. Here’s to another year of getting to be alive (and what a time it is, folks!) Here’s to more adventure and less criticism. Here’s to red light masks and also smile lines. Here’s to learning to live with ease but also fighting until the end. Here’s to standing up for what’s right but also accepting when silence serves you best. Here’s to 45.

Sleepover Party Ideas: Things to Do at a Slumber Party

2024-08-05T21:30:00-00:00

Sleepovers are exciting events for the little ones. As a parent, hosting a sleepover can be equally exciting but also a hassle. From planning fun things to do at a slumber party to snacks, a lack of preparation can leave kids bored. Wondering how to throw an iconic slumber party? Don’t worry! Today, we’re sharing […]

The post Sleepover Party Ideas: Things to Do at a Slumber Party appeared first on XO Ashley.

How to Put on a Duvet Cover

2024-08-02T21:55:00-00:00

Making your bed with fresh sheets and fluffy pillows is one of those chores that feels like it’s worth the effort. The relaxation can’t be beat once you sink into a freshly changed bed. However, working out how to put on a duvet is a challenge that has bested plenty of people over time. Duvet […]

The post How to Put on a Duvet Cover appeared first on XO Ashley.

Fashion Friday: Transition Picks

2024-08-02T17:09:21-00:00

Just a few items I’m liking right now – I am already thinking fall (don’t judge)! Click images for links.

How to Hang Chandeliers & Pendant Lights

2024-08-01T15:08:08-00:00

Get inspired to decorate your home with the finished product with help from the XO Ashley blog.

The post How to Hang Chandeliers & Pendant Lights appeared first on XO Ashley.

Compare Tempur-Pedic Mattresses

2024-07-31T19:27:11-00:00

You’re likely familiar with Tempur-Pedic mattresses, but what makes them stand out — and stand apart — from other mattresses? Their more-than-memory foam surfaces will have you feeling like you’re sleeping on a cloud, for one. But there are also distinct design features that reduce pressure on your body, combined with top-of-the-line technology to keep […]

The post Compare Tempur-Pedic Mattresses appeared first on XO Ashley.

Serta Mattresses: iComfort vs. Perfect Sleeper

2024-07-31T17:54:16-00:00

When choosing the perfect mattress, the final decision usually comes down to that ideal balance between comfort and support. Serta stands out as a trusted brand known for its commitment to both, but your work isn’t done once you’ve decided on Serta mattresses. Our guide takes a look at two popular options from the popular […]

The post Serta Mattresses: iComfort vs. Perfect Sleeper appeared first on XO Ashley.

Purple Mattress Collections Comparison

2024-07-31T15:43:32-00:00

You’ve probably heard the hype about Purple Mattresses. Why are they so special? Are they truly worth it? And how do you know exactly what type of Purple Mattress® is the right one for you? No worries, because Ashley will guide through each of the options in the Purple Mattress Collections, so you can sleep […]

The post Purple Mattress Collections Comparison appeared first on XO Ashley.

How to Choose a Beautyrest Black Mattress

2024-07-30T19:46:16-00:00

Getting restful sleep is essential for a sound mind and healthy body. Tossing and turning on a worn-out mattress can leave you more exhausted than when you went to bed. Feel like you’re lacking beauty rest? Simmons Beautyrest mattresses could be your solution. With luxurious, state-of-the-art technology, elite designs, and an expansive collection, the Beautyrest […]

The post How to Choose a Beautyrest Black Mattress appeared first on XO Ashley.

Fashion Friday (on Tuesday): Summer, Three Ways.

2024-07-30T14:20:13-00:00

This was meant to go up Friday but alas – LIFE! We’re mid-summer, but I for one am already thinking fall (my favorite time to shop!), so I’m buying a mix of summer classics and pieces I can transition into cooler weather. I partnered with Saks to bring you so many good options today because they have a 20% off your $250+ purchase that ends tomorrow (*exclusions apply).

First up- casual weekend look. A breezy, light Doen top, cropped denim and staples accessories- Saint Laurent sandals and a polished raffia and leather bag.

Oliver really felt I needed to walk him in this outfit!

I’ve wanted these classic sandals for years – I turn to my medium brown flat sandals ALL summer and so I gifted myself these finally knowing they will be an amazing cost-per-wear piece.

Next up this adorable and comfy Doen dress everyone raves about. Top with a denim jacket in September or wear on its own now! I plan on bringing this one to London in August!

Can we have a moment for these Loeffler Randall shoes? I have a pair of jeweled mesh flats and these are like those but next level. Perfect for a fun lunch or night out!

Last up is this date night look that so easily can be for a cooler summer night OR fall. A cream knit sweater top with cut outs, wide leg denim and those sparkly heeled mules again!

And here are some more favorite finds from Saks for now and for later (that leather skirt OMG I neeeeeeed it). Click images for links!

*This post was sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue and contain affiliate links. All selections and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting brands that keep EOS going!

All My Products on Wayfair (Plus Some Other Great Finds!)

2024-07-24T13:26:49-00:00

Wayfair is one of those places you can find real gems, brand name home goods and great sales. But also, SO MANY Erin Gates brand items! It’s one of the best spots to find my rugs, mirrors and wallpaper at great prices and easy shipping, so I teamed up with them to post about all my favorites – plus some other amazing home finds from the site that complement my aesthetic.

From my mirror collection here:

To my rug collection here (so many good new outdoor ones!)

And even my wallpaper here:

Here is a collage of all my faves and some really interesting furniture and accessory finds I scouted out on Wayfair:

*This post was sponsored by Wayfair and contain affiliate links.

*Photos by Kirsten Francis, Jessica Delaney, Sarah Winchester and Michael J. Lee

Project Reveal: A Light Renovation Outside Boston

2024-07-22T17:16:03-00:00

Today a fun reveal of a project we did a couple years ago and shot last year in the suburbs outside of Boston. These clients came to us with an issue that I think a lot of people face – a newly built/renovated home with finishes and interior details that were just not their style. Not bad, and certainly not old, but just not right for them. A lot can be done without a full gut renovation, and this project is an amazing example! We redid some (but not all) new cabinetry, added in a few new built ins, tons of paint and paper, replaced tile and flooring as well as lighting. Who doesn’t love a little before and after? Here we go!

The foyer before was pretty bland and builder grade with an out of scale light fixture.

We installed a new faux marble checker board floor, a new mercury glass fixture in the right size, and made a skirted entry table to fill the large space and provide a place to drop keys and mail.

A large round convex mirror brightens up the space by reflecting the windows up front and an antique bench adds a little patina.

Your basic powder room – it just needed a little extra love.

We kept everything except the medicine cabinet and faucet – painted the woodwork, added a printed grasscloth, new light and mirror and voila!

The family room off the entry got all new furniture, drapery and fresh paint.

The dining room before with out of scale furniture and lighting and not much personality….

Wallpaper, a new fixture and better furniture rounded out this pass through dining room, from which you can see from the family room through to the living room.

A pair of chests and matching Louis style mirrors flank the opening into the kitchen.

The kitchen before – not bad, but could be better!

You can see we tweaked the layout a bit but left sections alone (like the island and the window wall for the most part). We did relocate the range to the back wall and moved the fridge over, but this was not a full gut.

Our client has amazing taste and her accessory collection is so strong we had to give it pride of place throughout the house. Especially these oyster plates! The floating shelves break up the upper cabinetry.

We relocated this section of the cabinetry with glass fronts from the right of the door to the left, and all cabinetry was painted Farrow & Ball Mizzle.

The living room at the back of the house had no real changes other the fireplace mantle and surround. The big impact was the paint color…

We went dark and cozy! Farrow & Ball De Nimes was the winner and it made this room feel more luxe and historic. A big sectional for the family to cuddle into and a leather ottoman for kicking up feet.

A combination of deep blues and crisp greens feels timeless, and the patterned draperies add a lot to this space as well. It can be a commitment to do drapes in a pattern, but when they are neutral it’s not so scary!

A wood mantel felt more appropriate to the house and a fresh marble surround looks far more elevated than the previous iteration. This is such a happy chair too! :)

Everything was painted this deep blue, and we added custom window treatments, cushion and pillows.

The primary features a bold green velvet bed amongst lots of crisp whites and neutrals.

The primary bath we fully redid and it looks SO wonderful. Classic, timeless and a little bit country.

The kids bath also got an upgrade – that floor is a favorite.

The mudroom did get re-arranged with a new built in added, a nook where the closet used to be and the door to the garage moved for clearer access.

What do you think? Pretty huge improvement without a gut job, right? We are thrilled with how this home turned out, and the client was so happy, we are now doing their Maine residence! A win/win for everyone!

A reminder: for all new client inquiries we have a form on our website you can fill out, or please reach out to molly@eringatesdesign.com

All photography by Jessica Delaney.

Fashion Friday: Matching Set Dressing

2024-07-19T18:19:24-00:00

Photo: Erin Belles

Last week I was on Nantucket and wore this matching set from Benaar LA to a luncheon event (comes in navy too) and was asked for a street style pic by a photographer, which was disarming and surprising given how unsure of myself I felt. But people really reacted to this set and kept telling me “I am ALL about set dressing right now” and I have to agree! It so easy when traveling or even just getting ready for work to have a coordinating set at the ready! I also love the two for one aspect of many of them – it’s nice to have the flexibility to wear the bottoms with a solid top or tank or the top with jeans! So I rounded up some favorite matching sets and added a couple accessories to get you thinking about how to incorporate sets into your wardrobe. Click on the top half of the outfit pics for the top links and the bottom half of the photo for the bottoms link!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Summer Quilt Swap

2024-07-11T14:36:38-00:00

Lots of people prefer quilts to heavy duvets for sleeping in the summer, and they are also really great options for kids rooms as well (less fuss, easier to clean). I’ve been seeing some really fantastic, modern options in my sourcing and thought I’d round some up for you. Naturally I very much adore the reversible seed stitch quilt from my collection with Kassatex, but there are lots of varieties – from the simple to the more graphic and colorful (even classic vintage styles) that all can provide a nice optional layer for your beds.

Also, we did this little “how to layer a bed” series with Kassatex and wanted to repost! It’s a good cheat sheet on how to use different shams, duvets and quilts.

Dining Mix & Match

2024-07-08T13:09:56-00:00

Dining tables and chairs are not just pieces of furniture you retreat to for a meal. They are representative of your unique style. One of the most appealing ways to accessorize your new table is with mix-and-match chairs. The contrast in design and style lends itself to the ultimate dining room creativity. At Ashley, we […]

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Roundup: Great Twin Beds for Kids

2024-07-02T18:50:40-00:00

I absolutely LOVE a double twin bed room. The symmetry is so pleasing to the eye and the second bed a great spot for sleepovers (or tired parents stuck staying in the room until their kid falls asleep….. *ahem*)

We did this room a few years ago and have not gotten around to sharing it – the double twin beds are fantastic, as is the bold floral paper paired with the graphic patterned window treatments. The unexpected pairing of violet and bright orange are also a twist.

Photo by Michael J. Lee

I was asked by a client the other day what size beds most kids have – we most often see kids in queen beds these days, or a pair of twins – full size beds are VERY hard to find, believe it or not! If I could have done two twin beds for Emma, I would have jumped at the chance. Unfortunately, her room layout doesn’t allow for it, but here are some amazing twin bed options for stylish kids rooms in case you have the space for them!

Best Neutral Bookshelf Accessories

2024-06-18T20:40:23-00:00

We do a LOT of bookshelf styling – it seems to be something almost every client needs our help on when installing a project – so I thought I’d share a selection of my favorite neutral, go-with-any-home accents we like to use on bookshelves when styling. Obviously copious amounts of books are the first thing you need, but adding in objects, small art and carefully coordinated picture frames makes them look polished and interesting.

*Photo by Kirsten Francis

Fashion Friday: Summer Stripes

2024-06-14T18:44:23-00:00

I LOOOOOOVE me a good stripe top or sweater. And summer makes me think of stripes. So here are a few finds from this week that have me thinking about adding more of this beloved, classic pattern to my wardrobe (which I decided I hate 99% of and need to redo).

Sealy Mattress Buying Guide

2024-06-13T18:24:43-00:00

Investing in the right mattress is the most important thing you can do for a good night’s sleep. When you’re trying to decide which brand to go with, a long history of helping consumers get good rest matters. Sealy mattresses have been around for over 140 years, and millions of Americans have trusted Sealy with […]

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A Bold and Bright Dinner Party

2024-06-11T18:34:50-00:00

In August I turn 45, and while the number itself doesn’t freak me out, I’m not super psyched about it either. As of late I’ve been feeling kind of off – a little lower in mood than normal and certainly tired to the bone. While I can chalk it up to the effects of the stress of a busy life with young kids and running a small business affords me, I think it’s also aging as well. The hot button word of the year seems to be “perimenopause”, and even though I’m sure that has something to do with it biologically, it feels more like a more emotional process I am going through. One in which I try to accept that I am in fact, getting older, and, with that, my place in the world is changing and how others view me and how I view myself is shifting too. In some ways for better, in others not so much.

You could not PAY me to be in my 20’s again. Or my 30’s for that matter. Both decades were really brutal for me in which I did not have a lot of fun. To my shock, the beginning of my 40’s is when I felt most vital and alive, but that has been dwindling the past 2 years. Now I feel as though I am in a kind of no man’s land- not old, but not young. Some days full of energy and determination, others fighting off a desire to burn it all down and run away (or to be less dramatic, to just curl up and REST).

I have been in therapy a very long time and have done a LOT of hard work – especially the last 3-4 years. What has been obvious to some (my husband) literally just dawned on me as of recent – I’m not sure I know how to happy. I sure know how to be productive. I’m damn good at trying to be perfect. I know how to please others like the back of my hand. But do I know how to find joy within my own self? Ehhhhhhh, I’m not so sure.

Yes, I have moments of feeling happy- out laughing with friends, cuddling with my kids, a perfect beach day. But the “letting go” that is involved in truly being happy is really hard for me. Fighting the desire to be the best at something/everything and instead just ENJOY being is a real challenge for me. I’ve been living very much with a white knuckle grasp on the things I know make me “good” and am left feeling, well… exhausted. This can’t be all there is.

I am a very blessed, lucky lady- no doubt about that. I SHOULD be happy, of course. And I have to be okay saying this out loud and not worrying that people will paint me as ungrateful (although, admittedly, I certainly can be). So I am, because I think it’s a hard thing to admit. Many of us should, by all accounts, be very happy- but we aren’t. Maybe it IS the hormones. Maybe it’s the culture of the grind. Maybe it’s social media and its brain rotting comparison game. Or maybe we just aren’t being honest with ourselves.

So I’ve decided to celebrate 45 this summer. Not a banner year for a big party, but rather a bright, happy, FUN dinner with my best girls on my back porch. No pressure, just FUN. This is the year I want to really focus on that aspect of life instead of hitting some obtuse milestone of follower count, public accolades or rock hard abs. I want to feel better in my body, but also pay less attention to every inch of it. I want to lean into days off, free time and loose schedules instead of regimented days in which I can’t help but feel there is MORE I should be doing.

I have worked hard, and will continue to do so. I know no other way than to stay busy and hungry. And I will talk to the doctors I have more about some methods to fight off the inevitable drop in hormones that exacerbate how I’m feeling. But I also want to try harder to enjoy life as it is, not put off happiness until I reach XYZ goal or date or age. The time is now, because as I was reminded last month, the future is not guaranteed.

This is a very long winded way of saying I’m planning a dinner! :) A pretty one full of bold color and feminine details and I felt like mood-boarding it so I did! Some version of this will happen, probably not all of these things- it doesn’t have to be perfect (although I do truly delight in pretty things). We could order pizza for all I care, I just want to create a moment to sit and enjoy my friends, my gorgeous yard and a summer night – I prefer entertaining at home to going out lately, so this is what I’ll do.

So here’s the look that to me says “happy birthday you 45 year old nutjob”! Cheers!

All images linked except the flowers (here), cake (here) and rechargable lamps and shades (here).

Fashion Friday: Summer Event Dresses

2024-06-07T14:53:37-00:00

A round up of some of the dresses that have caught my eye lately for summer events (weddings, showers, fundraisers, etc.). Some work for day to night as well (not that I’ve ever really had a day to night situation, but I feel like we still want that option)!

Favorite Retail Finds: June

2024-06-06T15:14:06-00:00

Just a few awesome finds from around the internet today – all from retails vendors, many of them really affordable! Click images for links!

Garden Level Renovation Reveal

2024-06-04T17:16:19-00:00

You may recognize this South End townhome from an earlier phase we completed, with its gracious old details and ample accents of blue. After updating the family and living rooms, we returned to complete a renovation of the street and garden levels of the home. Not sure if it would make it into the next book, I held onto the pictures, but now that the content has shifted a bit I’m happy to share it!

We worked with Brookes + Hill Construction on this kitchen facelift, new wet bar passthrough, dining room and playroom. Continuing the color scheme we used upstairs in the main living area, it’s a sea of blues and styles that range from traditional to modern.

The dining room features a gorgeous bubble chandelier over a long custom table for 10 with Louis style chairs and a little sofa tucked neatly into the curved bay.

A custom curved rod was installed to add a bold trimmed set of drapery panels over shutters, which provide privacy from the sidewalk.

The wetbar connects the dining room to the kitchen and the cabinetry was painted in a high gloss deep blue with mess grille inserts. An antique mirror serves as a backsplash, which helps bounce light around the small space and tricks the eye into thinking it’s bigger than it is.

Do these shelves look familiar? After doing this bar I knew I wanted the same look for my own bar someday! :) Library rails keep bottles from slipping off the open shelving and the ceiling is done in a marbled paper to add a little interest.

In the kitchen, we painted the existing cabinets, replaced the countertops and hardware, and added new Urban Electric pendants to finish off this very classic space.

We had added this banquette during our initial phase, but added a new pendant to the mix to better balance out the nook.

Outside the dining room is a lower level entry where we added statement lighting, a chest to keep all sorts of stuff hidden (mittens, kids shoes, bags, etc) and put a cute little cushion on the built in bench seat across from it.

In the garden level playroom we added a bold Phillip Jeffries paper with a complementary navy sofa and accents of mustard. Painting by Hannah Bureau through Libby Silvia.

With so many built ins, this space is SUCH a dream for city dwellers with kids! A Murphy bed makes it a comfortable guest space as well.

Photographs by Jessica Delaney

GET THE LOOK:

Father’s Day Gift Guide

2024-05-29T15:43:19-00:00

Better late than never, our annual Father’s Day Gift Guide is here:

Luxury spice set for the chef in the family.
A new golf glove with a needlepoint nod to Caddyshack.
Embossed leather driver cover.
Wood Scrabble set.
The coolest looking cooler on wheels.
A cute new swimsuit (shorter shorts are in!)
I have this golf bag and LOVE it.
The ever handy ratcheting screwdriver.
The pizza oven I keep swearing I’ll order Andrew (fun fact: he used to own a pizza restaurant)
Super cool golf shoes.
The “Battery Daddy” :)
Custom supplements like protein powders in a variety of types and flavors!
Fly zapper racquet. The glory Andrew feels when he kills houseflies is unparalleled. He may consider this cheating though.
For the dad taking the kids to sports activities, a very comfy folding chair.
For the bird watcher- a birdhouse complete with video camera for up close viewing.
This would not be a Father’s Day gift guide without a Criquet polo. Andrew is now up to over 50 of these- it’s all he wears basically.
For those who are a fan of Hot Ones interviews- a Hot Ones hot sauce set based on the levels they do in the show (they are funny- this one especially).
A leather bound ballpark book for the baseball fan.
Dream gift: at home Skee-Ball machine!
A portable pickle ball net for the driveway.
A gorgeous new tennis racquet.
A sleek bluetooth speaker.
Classic leather flip flops for summer.

Fashion Friday: Summer Sandal Round Up

2024-05-17T14:07:26-00:00

I am not the most adventurous when it comes to footwear- look at my shoes shelves and you’ll see mostly a sea of classic brown, tan, black and animal print shoes. I also trend that way for summer too. Carrie Bradshaw I am not. While I would like to get a little more fun with my footwear, I also know the value of a good classic shoe you can wear again and again with everything. So here are my favorites for this season- so many great options! A few splurges (I want those Gucci espadrilles bad for some reason) and a few real steals too!

Good “trends” to look for this summer:

Birkenstock style sandals (and Birks themselves) are still really hot. I like the suede versions with bigger gold buckles but also LOVE the VB version.
Metal accents- lots of sandals with modern gold sculptural details on the toe area. Like jewelry for your feet.

Gold. Silver was it for fall, this summer we’re back to gold! A good simple gold strappy heel and flat will take you a long way.
Deep brown flat leather slides. Always a classic for a reason.
Clear vinyl strap heels make your legs look 8 miles long and go with ANY dress. A must have.
Denim is huge, even on feet.
Woven accents mixed with leather- bags and shoes!

A Guide to Hosting March Madness

2024-05-17T13:59:19-00:00

So, you’ve been tasked with hosting this year’s March Madness celebration. March Madness is a special time for basketball lovers, foodies, and everyone in between. Your March Madness party can look a lot different, depending on when and where you’re tuning into the game. You can create your own game day experience right from the […]

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My Custom Kitchen Hood

2024-05-14T15:50:15-00:00

Photo by Kirsten Francis

Now that my kitchen is done, one of the features I get the most questions about is my brass hood. We do tons of custom metal hoods for clients and I knew I wanted a brass hood to complement my La Cornue range in my new kitchen. I worked with Classic Custom Metal Works in Florida to create my dream hood from scratch – and the process was SO easy and creatively fulfilling, so I wanted to share a bit about it since they ship nationwide and are a great resource.

Their very thorough process starts with a great form they have you fill out about the size of the hood you want, cabinetry details and what style you are looking for. It’s very detailed, which makes a designer like me feel confident they will get it right! From there they presented me with various options for the hood in these fabulous renderings:

I decided on hood #3 but in the colors of hood #4 – I wanted it to be two different tones of brass, one brushed and one lacquered, since my range had lacquered brass on it. They sent a bunch of samples for me to play around with as they worked on the final drawings:

They presented me a final set of drawings (along with CAD drawings for the builder to review as well).

And a final watercolor of the range wall – this really helps visualize how it will all look together, especially the scale of everything.

They chose the right size blower insert to work with my size range and included it with the hood. It shipped very quickly for custom and came with clear installation instructions for my builder (and a person to call with questions). It was such an easy process and I could not be more thrilled with my hood! It’s a total show stopper!

We loved working with them so much we used them to create another hood for a client in the Hamptons who needed one (an in-process pic, but you can still tell this one will be amazing too!):

I’m really happy to share resources when they are this amazing (and a real pleasure to work with). I feel like customer service is a dying art, and these guys are old school in their approach – in the best way! I used a suction cup to hang a wreath on my hood at Christmas, and it left a mark. They tested ways to remove it on samples in their office and then sent me step by step instructions on how to remove it. Truly above and beyond.

I think custom made items for your home can be incredibly intimidating to undertake if you are not working with a designer and these guys really do make it easy.

Fashion Friday: I’m Back Baby!

2024-05-10T15:54:50-00:00

OK, my final book manuscript is IN with the publisher and I am BACK! So happy to have time again to blog and dig back into design work (until I have to review edits and layouts but let’s cross that bridge when we come to it!)

So here are a few things I’ve been coveting lately (especially that ikat Julia Amory set- waiting for it to come back in my size!) Army green, white, denim and raffia feature big here. Classic are classics for a reason.

New Outdoor Furniture & Decor Finds

2024-05-08T18:50:35-00:00

While the forecast is calling for rain, rain and more rain, I’m making sure our patio is READY as soon as the sun is shining. Here’s a quick round up of outdoor furniture & decor items that have caught my eye lately… click images for links!

PS – Someone please order that Sam’s Club umbrella and confirm it isn’t dollhouse size – $149 for a 10′ umbrella?!

How to Organize Your Closet: Closet Organization Ideas & Tips

2024-04-26T16:07:49-00:00

There’s a common theme with most closets — there’s never enough space! Clutter can be overwhelming, especially in small spaces. It might feel like no matter how hard you try to tidy up, your cleaning efforts never end. But each of our favorite pieces deserves a home. Wondering how you can maximize our closet space? […]

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Mother’s Day Gift Guide

2024-04-23T14:55:07-00:00

Mother’s Day is coming up quick, so today I’m sharing a round up of gift ideas for the mom(s) in your life. And if you aren’t shopping for a mom, go ahead and TREAT YOURSELF!

All images are linked, except for those listed below.

Williams Sonoma Faves From My Own Home

2024-04-12T16:03:40-00:00

I’ve had many partnerships over the years, and the long term partnerships that I value most are genuinely organic and bring me joy. Williams-Sonoma is one of those – not only because they have believed in me from the beginning, but because I buy and use all their goods constantly (no surprise there) regardless of any partnerships we have together. Getting ready for this shoot of my house was an undertaking, and I realized as I walked around the spaces and propped it out how much of the accents in the kitchen, as well as other parts of the house (including my all time favorite picture frames, for example) are from them.

I rounded up the items you’ll see throughout my home from Williams-Sonoma here – I get asked a lot about my floral glassware, what pans fit in my smaller French ovens and where to get a great fake orchid – so here ya go!

Spring Planting and Gardening Ideas

2024-04-10T18:52:39-00:00

Adding plants to your home is an excellent way to liven up your space for spring. Creating a beautiful spring garden or decorating with indoor plants can initially seem intimidating. You might be wondering what plants to get and how to incorporate them. Keep reading to discover everything you need for decorating with spring plants. […]

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Fashion Friday: Palm Royale Style

2024-04-05T14:42:27-00:00

I have been watching Palm Royale and find it to be such a fantastic escape- the costumes, sets and hilarity of the cast is such a treat. Also, I’d like to know what Ricky Martin is doing to literally stay the same age forever. HOW??? And how adorable is Kristin Wiig in the cute mini dresses and big wigs? She also looks PHENOMENAL.

True story- I’ve never been to Palm Beach. I may have once breezed through West Palm antiquing with my brother when he lived in Miami, but I’ve never say, been to say, the famed Colony Hotel. While the sunny, cheery bright colors and warm weather are enticing- the politics not so much. So I’m not sure when I’ll go, but I’m happy to take a fashion adventure there in my mind! Here is a round up of the fab style found on the show, but in a non-costumey way. I feel like all this could be worn easily this summer anywhere!

How to Choose Dining Chairs

2024-03-15T19:55:37-00:00

For many families, the dining room is an essential space to catch up with loved ones and enjoy a tasty meal together. The ideal dining room exudes an inviting atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. That said, comfy dining room chairs are a must! But how do you know how to choose dining room chairs? Don’t […]

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Outdoor Furniture Materials

2024-03-05T16:47:22-00:00

Learn more about the different types of outdoor furniture materials, and which is best for your climate.

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Spoon Sleep Mattress Review

2017-10-24T14:35:00.001-07:00

The design of Spoon Sleep’s mattress acknowledges something that seems radical in the mattress industry but is actually quite simple: human bodies are not flat surfaces meant to lie on top of other, unforgiving flat surfaces. Our bodies are heavier in some places, pointier in others, and our mattress should conform to our uniquely shaped bodies. Spoon mattresses are ...

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