Michaela Noelle Designs

Let's Make Friends

2012-03-10T08:30:00.005-08:00

I'm super excited to introduce you all to some new sponsors this month! The second half of my lovely sponsors will be introduced next week :) Hope you'll take a peak at these cute girls and go say hello!
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MACKENZIE. I'm Mackenzie from Design Darling — both the blog and the boutique! I started blogging in 2009 as a creative outlet for my love of fashion and interiors and just this past week launched an e-commerce boutique by the same name. There you'll find lots of decorative objects, desk accessories, throw pillows, and more!

BLOG | BOUTIQUE
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JENNIFER. Hello, we are Jeremy and Jennifer Cook. Two Texans that love Jesus, our baby boy named Boston James (born 10-2-10), our family, friends and all things DIY. We've been married for almost 6 years and we have two precious toy poodles, Daisy and Jet. Jen is a stay at home mommy and is truly loving every minute of being with our son. This is where we document everything about our life, from all things DIY, updating our home (which is our favorite part about owning our home), having babies, faith, marriage, fashion and, of course, our beloved Boston. We hope you'll hop on over to see us!
Fun Fact: I'm a closet "science nerd." :)

BLOG
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WHITNEY. I am a newlywed, new home owner, and pharmacist from Nebraska. Last spring my wonderful husband Brent and I were married. Soon after, we purchased an acreage and began construction on our first home! Yep, we stuffed graduation, new jobs, our wedding, and construction into our first year of marriage! My blog follows my journey of decorating, DIYing, shopping, and cooking while balancing being a wife, full time pharmacist, and blogger. It is a bit of a whirlwind, but I would love to share my crazy life with you! Check out my blog to learn a little more about me! I would love to meet you!
My fun fact is that I am a REDHEAD! I mean, what's more fun than that?

BLOG
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JILLIAN NICOLE. I'm a Southern California native who fell in love with a Brit, and is now trying to navigate her way through the ex-pat life in Scotland! Weddings make my little heart go pitter-patter, I've never met a dessert I didn't like, and I think my husband is definitely the most handsome man God ever created!:) If you're inspired by gorgeously styled events, if peonies make you go weak in the knees, and if you love to have a good gush over all things pretty, then we're sure to be fast friends!
Fun Fact: My second toe is longer than my big toe!

BLOG

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Aren't they darling? Yes :)
To wrap up this weekend post, I thought you'd like to see Miss Hope and how much she's grown! Look at that awesome puppy rug. She clearly loves it.

Also, sometimes we skype. She told me to tell you all hello :)

Have the best weekend! Don't forget to go check out my sponsors!
Love,

Itching to Redo...

2012-03-09T05:00:00.002-08:00

...my bedroom at home in California. As I've mentioned before I'm obsessing over seafoam and all things turquoise. Sometimes I'll be sitting in class and start picturing everything I want to do to the room...ahh, the life of a design student :)

So far, here's what I've come up with as the inspiration for the room:

For a long time now, I've dreamed of doing an entire gallery wall of all architectural prints, photographs and drawings. I'm hoping this will be the feature of the room, right above my new reading nook. I'm doing away with my childhood desk {because I don't do much desk work at home anyways!}, and am hoping to find an inexpensive chair to create a cozy reading nook. Some new white embroidered bedding, seafoam paint, and some fun turquoise accessories should do the trick!

Sources:
Bedding, pillow, chair, two gallery wall photographs, Big Ben & Eiffel Tower drawings, row house drawing, paint color, nightstand, rug. {Chandelier and lamp found in Olioboard- source unknown}.

What do you think?
I want to get started right away over Spring Break, but I have such a busy 2 weeks at home that I'm not sure it'll happen. We'll see :)
**The winner of the West Elm Teacup giveaway is Chelsea from The Curly Cues. Will email you soon!**

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I'll be studying away for finals- oh, and getting highlights in my hair {just touch-up} for my best friend's wedding next Friday!!
Love,

PS. Welcome to my sponsor Whitney from The Cerniks!

Whitney and her husband are newlyweds who just moved into their first home. Follow her on their adventure of making their house a home. They are well on their way, let me tell ya! I think their home is gorgeous. Go say hello!
xoxo

{Design Project} Bay Area Family Search

2012-03-08T04:59:00.014-08:00

As a way to expand my portfolio, I'm on the search for a family living in the Bay Area, California this summer, who would be willing to let me design a room in their home. If you're looking for design help in your home and live in the SF Bay Area, I'm looking for you!

Here are the details:
- I would help you design a room in your home from start to finish
- Design services would be free!
- You just need to be willing to complete the design {and have a reasonable budget!}
- You must give permission for photos to be taken of the space and used in my portfolio and on the blog
- BONUS if you think your style reflects mine :)

If you are interested in this, please email me with:
- The room you would like to redesign
-A picture of the space
- A little about you {ie. where in the Bay Area you live}

Please spread the word! I can't wait to see who emails me and get started on the project :) Feel free to check out my Projects Gallery for past design projects, inspiration boards, and client rooms.

Have the best Thursday! Back tomorrow with a new design plan for my bedroom back home...can't wait to show you.
Love,

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: The Family Room Design Studio

2012-03-07T05:00:00.002-08:00

Not sure about you, but I'm so happy it's Wednesday! This marks the one week mark until I fly home for break. Today I'm excited to have Sita here from The Family Room Design Studio!

Sita and her sweet blog caught my eye over the holiday's when she decked out her stunning home. Seriously, go have a look here :) Sita is one talented lady- she has a great eye for design, architecture and has the sweetest soul. I'm sure glad we've connected, and I'm also glad she's here today sharing what she's loving and what she's not!
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Hello Everyone! I'm Sita from The Family Room Design Studio. I am so happy that Michaela has asked me to be a part of her series. I absolutely adore Michaela and her blog. I am so honored to be here today!

She Loves Me:

1. Gratitude

Recognizing the goodness in my life, and being grateful for what I have is a favorite of mine because when I do it, it gives me perspective and increases my happiness.

via

2. Colored Denim

I am totally loving this trend. I recently purchased a pair of mint green jeans and I'm anxiously awaiting Spring so I can wear them!

Via

3. Brass Lighting

I am loving the resurgence of Brass in decor. Not the shiny stuff from the early 90's, but the aged and antiqued brass finish that is finding its way into some very lovely spaces. I am particularly smitten with brass lighting at the moment.

Via

4. The Voice

I am obsessed with this show. Partly because of the immense musical talent it showcases

and partly because of Adam Levine :). If you love music as much as I do, you have to watch this show!

She Loves Me Not:

1. Selling our Home

We are in the process of selling our home and keeping it clean for showings, with three small children around, is next to impossible!

2. Uggs with shorts

Forgive me if you sport this look, but I don't get it. I live in Utah and I love my Uggs and wear them all winter long...with jeans and pants. Aren't Uggs classified as "cold weather" boots?

Via

3. Being Sick

I love winter, but I despise the sickness that always befalls our family during the winter months. We have spent the last 3 weeks battling colds, sinus infections and strep throat around our home! I'm praying that was the last of the sickness we see for quite a while.

Thanks so much for having me!

XOXO,

***
Thank you, friend! I have to say, I love The Voice, too! Music is one of my favorite things and there is some serious talent on this show. Denim jeans also have my heart :)

Go say hello to Sita over at The Family Room Design Studio. And wish her luck...she's in the process of selling her gorgeous home!

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not will be a link up next Wednesday! Hope you'll all join in :) Feel free to spread the word with this button and use it in your post:

Happy Wednesday! What are you loving?
Love,

PS. Don't forget to enter my West Elm teacup giveaway! Winner announced Friday!

Charming & Traditional Home

2012-03-06T04:58:00.000-08:00

all images via Traditional Home

Do you ever see something and love it, but you're not exactly able to put your finger on why?! I am feeling that way with these photos. This home is gorgeous, and although it's a little different than what I normally gravitate towards, I'm in love with what I see. I think what I love about it are all the old and charming touches within the traditional design. Can we just talk about that brick floor and those sliding barn doors in the family room? Amazing. I'm also struck by all of the carefully placed chandeliers and pendants. {I'm sure my lighting professor would say they aren't practical, but this girl doesn't care! Sometimes beauty comes before function...especially when your home is gracing the pages of a beautiful magazine;)} The mosaic tiling in the bathroom is gorg, and of course I'm loving all the tiny touches of purple. Let's not dismiss the main attraction- holy gallery wall! Now that, friends, is how you go big.
So maybe it's not that I don't know why I love the home, it's that I just love everything :)

What's your favorite part of the home?
Have a wonderful Tuesday!
Love,

PS. Welcome to my new sponsor, Jennifer from Our Love & Our Blessing

Jen writes about their life- from all things DIY, updating their home, faith, marriage, fashion and, of course, their adorable son, Boston. Go say hello! :)

A Day in the Life: In My Shoes

2012-03-05T04:55:00.000-08:00

image via victoria carlson photography

7:45 AM: My natural clock wakes me up! It takes me about 15 minutes to actually get out of bed though :)

8 AM: Morning routine begins.
- Put the pot of hot water on the stove for morning tea! {Can't seem to wake up without it}
- Breakfast: Preferably Ego Waffles. I also enjoy toast & peanut butter or cinnamon toast crunch cereal.
- 15 minutes of morning blogging to read your posts! This is when I tweet & Facebook the day's post.
- Get ready for the day! Wash face, brush teeth, makeup, hair, get dressed....all while listening to Pandora. Fave channels: Hillsong, Colbie Callait, Lady Antebellum, John Mayer, He is We.

9:30 AM: CAD {computer assisted drawing} Class

11 AM: Lighting Design Class

12:30 PM: Home for lunch. Top picks: Sandwich, tomato soup, quesadilla, carrots & hummus...or a combo of those!

Afternoon:
- Catch up on some blogging and emails
- Work on homework {sometimes at Starbucks for a treat :) }
- Possibly go to the library to finish some CAD homework.
- Do errands {run to the market, mail some letters...}
- Go take pictures at Meadow Boutique for the blog {on Friday's!}
- Work on client E-Designs

4:30 PM: Hot Yoga {Wednesday's}...most physically exhausting and rewarding hour of my week.

5:30 PM: Come home, shower, make some dinner.
- More homework!
- Catch up with the family and friends back home via phone or skype
- On Monday's I lead Young Life

8 PM: Watch TV with roommates while I do homework ~~at commercials~~...our nightly shows include:
- Monday: The Bachelor...not sure why I still watch it. I just.can't.stop.
- Tuesday: Parenthood
- Wednesday: American Idol & Modern Family
- Thursday: American Idol

10 PM: Evening routine...
- Get ready for bed
- Write the next day's post {if it wasn't done on the previous weekend}
- Do some pinning on Pinterest :)
- Read a chapter in a book for pleasure. {Favorites so far: The Holiness of God, Real Marriage, One Thousand Gifts}

11:15 PM: Bedtime Goal!
This is when I play at least 3 rounds of Solitare. I can't seem to fall asleep without ~~winning~~ playing. Then I turn on my noise machine and fall asleep to the ocean waves.

Next day: wake up and do it all over again {but with a slightly different schedule of classes on certain days!}
***
What I've learned from writing this all out is that 1. I love a routine 2. I love to be busy and 3. It's always a good idea to schedule in some "me" time. Mine is found in TV time and pleasure reading time before bed. Oh, and the occasional mani/pedi.

What about you...What's your day look like? Do you like schedules? Like to keep busy? Do tell!
Okay....it's almost 11pm! I need to get into bed so I can make my bedtime ;)
Have a lovely Monday!
Love,

Little Joys

2012-03-03T08:00:00.001-08:00

In the midst of a busy week ahead, I'm promising to stop and count my blessings.

Here are some little joys as of lately:
-My health
-Good friends
-Loving family
-Spring pastel nail polishes
-Receiving a great education
-A cute boy who sent me these:

-Sweet roommates
-Yummy smelling candles
-Fresh strawberries from Whole Foods
-A Faithful God
-A fun job at a local boutique
-My best friend's wedding coming up in 2 weeks!!!
-Cute puppy waiting for me at home:

-Modern Family...I mean, come on, it doesn't get more joyful than that :)
-The new swimsuit I picked up yesterday for my Spring break
-2 weeks until California for break!
-A passion for something I truly love
-Listening to music every morning while I get ready

I'm off to spend the morning getting my hair cut...just love a day at the salon!
Happy weekend, friends. May you find many things that bring you joy!
Love,

{Giveaway} West Elm Teacup

2012-03-02T04:55:00.001-08:00

Happy Friday! I couldn't be more thrilled to see the end of the week. This next week marks the last week {before finals} of our Winter quarter! It's been a long 10 weeks.

Anywho, last week at the West Elm Spring collection tour, I saw something I knew my readers would love. I'm head-over-heels in love with all their little kitchen goodies. Because you guys are so great, I bought this little turquoise printed teacup for a lucky winner!
Isn't it adorable?! I couldn't resist.
You can use it for tea...

Or to display some jewelry {like I always do!}

Giveaway Details:
One reader will win the above teacup from West Elm. Giveaway is only open to US or Canada residents, please.

How to Enter:
Be a follower of Michaela Noelle Designs {via google reader or GFC} and leave a comment to enter.

Extra Entries {leave a separate comment for each}:
-"Like" Michaela Noelle Designs on Facebook
-Tweet about the giveaway. {Example: @michaela_noelle is giving away a turquoise teacup from West Elm! www.michaelanoelledesigns.com}

**West Elm did not fund or ask me to host this giveaway or perform a product review. No compensation was received. I paid for the product and will choose a winner at random. Giveaway will close next Thursday night and be announced next Friday, March 9th. US and Canada Residents only please**

That's all! Hope you enjoy your Friday!
Love,

DIY Indoor Garden

2012-03-01T04:55:00.002-08:00

Not sure about you, but I've found myself mentally jumping to April and May already. I can't wait for Spring and all the good things that come along with it :) {Hoping Seattle can deliver a least a little warm sunshine in my final quarter at SPU!} All these thoughts of Spring had me longing for a little garden of my own. Clearly I can't plant anything outside, as it's still freezing! But that didn't stop me. Two weeks ago at my tour of West Elm's Spring collection, I was inspired by their indoor garden feature. They have everything from the plants and succulents needed, to the beautiful glass hurricanes and bubbles to house the plants. I bought a cute little green succulent while I was there, then went out last weekend to one of my favorite garden stores for the rest of my goods.

Materials: Plants, terra-cota pot and saucer, moss, pretty bowls or jars, paint, brushes, glue gun, tape.

Step 1: Cut your tape into small strips to create a pattern on your pot. I chose to make stripes.

Step 2: After you paint in your lines, peel the tape away to reveal the pattern. I love the imperfectness of my pot- notice the little paint splatters? Perfect.

Step 3: Glue your saucer {the saucer I bought is two sizes too big for the pot size, perfect proportions to sit it on top} to the upside down pot. This creates a terra cotta pot cake stand!

Step 4: Load up your indoor plants on the stand and adorn with some moss for texture. I placed each of the succulents in a decorative milk glass cup and ceramic bowl {similar anthropologie finds: one | two}

After about an hour of coming home with my materials, I had myself my own little indoor garden- the perfect, colorful remedy I needed to quench my longing for Spring. What about you- do you love flowers and gardens as much as I do?

I'm linking up with Amanda from Serenity Now!
Happy Thursday!
Love,

PS. All photos taken and edited by the lovely and talented Victoria Carlson Photography.

BLOG | WEBSITE

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: Isabella & Max Rooms

2012-02-29T05:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday! I'm so thrilled to have Janell here today from Isabella & Max Rooms!

Janell's blog is one of the very first design blogs I ever found and read religiously! I remember finding it and thinking, "I want my house to be like hers some day" :) Janell is always coming up with new projects and tutorials from her home, two of my favorites being her daughter and son's room. She's also the founder and editor of House of Fifty Magazine. Such an inspiring woman and blogger! Let's hear what Janell is loving and not loving this week...

***
Hi everyone, I'm Janell from Isabella & Max Rooms.

Thank you Michaela for inviting me to be a part of this series, it's such an honor to be here!

She Loves Me:

1. Kindness and Thoughtfulness

Being kind and thoughtful are always high on my list of favorite things!

Via Teaching Blog Addict

2. Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Balm

I am in love with this product I found recently at Sephora...a store which also happens to be another love for me. I'm so impressed with their customer service. When I stop in with questions on products I love getting samples to try before purchasing!

Via

3. Green in Design

I can't get enough of the color green in design lately, whether it be on furniture, interiors, jewelry or clothing!

HGTV, JCrew, Raquel Castillo, Pinterest

4. Books

After not making the time to read books for too long, I've been forced to get into the habit again recently, selecting books to feature in the 'The Books On Our Shelves' column in House of Fifty Mag. I am so happy to have rediscovered my love of a good book and just finished several I can't wait to share in the next issue.

She Loves Me Not:

1. The myth that beauty is possessed only by the young

I love meeting a beautiful woman who is no longer in her youth, there is something completely inspiring about the strength and spirit of a woman that owns her power regardless of her age.

Via Pinterest

2. All Over Tufting

I know I may loose some of you here, but I haven't been able to warm up to the trend of all over tufting!

Via Decor Pad

3. The Idea of Entitlement

I may begin to sound old myself here, but it is really important to understand that very rarely do good things simply show up at your doorstep...instead dreams require work. So, as much as we'd like to think otherwise:

Via Etsy

Thank you again for having me here today Michaela!

***
Thank you, Janell! Green is peaking my interest in design, too! I love the energy it brings to any room {or outfit!}
Run over to Isabella & Max Rooms today to say hello to Janell!

What are you loving this week?
Happy middle-of-the-week...
Love,

PS. She Loves Me will be a link up on March 14th, so get your posts ready! :)
PPS. This is the last day to reserve your spot to advertise on Michaela Noelle Designs. Email me for more info.
xo

{It's Live!} Rue Magazine Fun

2012-02-28T05:00:00.005-08:00

Read the issue here! Isn't it a dreamy cover photo?!

Rue Magazine is one of my very favorite online design and lifestyle magazines. The March/April issue is live today, so be sure to get your Rue fix! I'm extra excited about this month's issue, because I had the honor of writing the "Meet the Designer" feature. Admittedly, this is a dream come true :) I had the pleasure of interviewing the stylish and talented Seattle-based interior designer, Kelie Grosso, of Maison Luxe. I hope you'll read the interview and learn a little about her! Kelie is so sweet and I'm looking forward to going downtown to visit her at her shop soon.
Thank you to the gals at Rue for the opportunity to write for your sweet magazine :)

For now, here's a peak into Kelie's portfolio:

{Both images via Maison Luxe}

Hope you have a lovely Tuesday!
Love,

{Fashion} Coral + Stripes

2012-02-27T04:45:00.003-08:00

Black knit dress: Nordstrom (2 years ago!)
Striped sweater: Meadow Boutique
Cable knit leggings: Meadow Boutique
Belt: Target
Boots: Steve Madden
Hair: Spiral Waves Tutorial

Well, it certainly ain't fancy Oscar attire, but stripes and coral are two of my favorite things! When I found this sweater last week at Meadow {and there was one left in my size. Fate, I tell you. Fate.}, I knew it needed me. Or I needed it...whichever ;) I layered the striped sweater over a simple long sleeved, black, knit dress. A belt polished it off and added definition. My favorite part about the outfit is that it's super warm and cozy, while still colorful and stylish. The cold weather really gets me up here in Seattle, so I'm a happy gal when I can put together looks that are practical without sacrificing the cute factor. Let's face it, your day has a way higher chance of being terrific if you're feeling terrific. That's my life moto :)

Are you loving stripes just as much as me lately?
I'm really excited about what's going on here at the blog this week. I have a fun announcement tomorrow, a DIY project coming Thursday, and a giveaway on Friday {hint: my favorite home store}. There should be something for everyone!
Happy Monday...
Love,

PS. All the beautiful photos were taken and edited by Victoria Carlson Photography. I can't say enough great things about her and her fab work:)

PPS. The winner of the Simply Pillow Giveaway is...Mrs. Matched from What Should I Wear! Will email you shortly. Congrats!!

For the rest of you, don't forget Karen from SIMPLY PILLOW is extending a 10% code for all my readers at checkout! Code: FEB10

10% off sale ends February 29th. Happy Shopping :)

March is Just Around the Corner!

2012-02-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

Reserve your ad spot on Michaela Noelle Designs today! I only have 2 spaces left this month! {You are also able to get on the waiting list for April} For more information, please visit my sponsor/advertising page or email me at michaelawarner90@gmail.com for packages and pricing.

Advertising on MND will be receiving a revamp in May with packages for different price points. For more info or to reserve your spot, get in touch with me!

I adore promoting businesses, blogs and shops that I think my readers will love!

In other news...only 3 more weeks until I get to go home to see family. The end of this quarter could not come soon enough :) Home stretch, friends!!
Happy weekend!
Love,

{Client E-Design} This or That?

2012-02-24T04:45:00.007-08:00

Last week one of my cute blog friends, Brittany {love stitched}, came to me with a serious challenge of a room. She sent me photos of her family room and shared all of her problems and challenges she is facing with the design of the space. Since we both blog, I decided to come up with two design plans and let our readers vote on their favorite option. Just so you can get a feel for the space, here are the photos of it now...

And here are sneak peaks of each option...

***

Head on over to Love Stitched to see the full design board, cast your vote & help Brittany decide which option to implement!! :) I can't wait to see what she chooses and watch her progress in the design along the way.
While you're over there, check out Brittany's adorable shop. I have two of her headbands and love them!

Let me know which design board you're leaning toward!
Happy Friday!
Love,

PS. You'll also find a surprise discount over at Love Stitched for my e-design services :)
PPS. Don't forget to enter the Simply Pillow Giveaway! Ends Sunday.

Lights, Camera, Action...

2012-02-23T04:45:00.003-08:00

As you know, I'm in a lighting design class at school. Contrary to what most may think, it's actually a very technical, mathematical and tedious class! We're learning about how many lights are needed for each room and how many footcandles are necessary to produce good lighting in a space. Yep, footcandles. Bet you didn't know that was a word :)

Last Monday we went to a lighting show room and learned about different recessed cans and fixtures. I thought I'd share some of the knowledge I learned, then show some fabulous rooms with amazing lighting {because who really cares about the technical aspect anyways, right?!}

Lighting Tips:
- Each room should have two or more types of lighting. There is general, task, accent and decorative. Go here for more information on those in a previous post.
- There's no need for equal spacing between recessed cans. Instead, you should install the cans where you need the light the most in order to perform specific tasks.
-The best types of recessed cans are black or silver cans with the lamp placed high in the can. This direct the light down, and doesn't lead your eye to a big bright, white hole in the ceiling.
-Recessed cans in a living room, or anywhere you plan to read a lot, isn't the best idea! Other lighting fixtures such as pendants, chandeliers, vertical fixtures and table lamps suit reading much better.
- The proper height to hang a chandelier above a dining table is about 30". You also want to make sure the chandelier or pendant is 1' smaller in diameter than the table itself- this allows for 6" on either side of the table {so people don't lean in and hit their heads on the fixture}

Alright...enough of that! Onto the pretty stuff...
1. Great use of general, accent and decorative lighting:

via

2. Well lit hallway with accent lights directed at bookshelves to highlight them:

via

3. Recessed cans in a row above the countertop {workspace} & decorative and task lighting above island:

via

4. Great placement {and loving the TWO chandeliers- genius!} The eyeball lights pointing to the botanical prints is also a perfect way to highlight the art and help create a mood:

via

5. Again, two awesome pendants placed over the dining table at the right height above the table:

via

In other lighting class news, we're currently working on grayscale renderings of a floor plan, showing where light is needed. The lightest color gray marker shows where the most light should be placed {sink, toilet, art}, and the darkest colors show where the least amount of light in the room will fall. My partner, Courtney {who blogs! Check it out asap!}, and I had some fun practicing last night with the powder room. Here's our finished powder room grayscale... {final product is the nice one in the back left corner. The others were practices. See our progress?!}

We'll be back soon with even more progress on the rest of the house.
That's all for today!

What do you think makes good lighting in a space??
Happy Thursday!
Love,

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: Conspicuous Style

2012-02-22T04:45:00.001-08:00

Happy Wednesday! It's that time again- we get to hear from one of my favorite bloggers! Today Stacy from Conspicuous Style is here.

Stacy's blog is full of endless interior inspiration. We connected a few weeks back and I knew I needed to have her here to show her off to all of you. She is one talented interior decorator with a whole house of loveliness to show for it. Take it away, friend!
***
Hi everyone, I am Stacy from Conspicuous Style.
I am so happy that Michaela invited me to be a part of this series. It is such an honor to be here!

She Loves Me:

1. Pastels

I know they're everywhere, and I've been caught up in the fad! I probably won't change a room in my house into a pastel haven, but I do find myself Pinning them like crazy:

Via

2. Anything With Tufting or Nail Heads

I love this classic style! I will never get tired of tufting or nail head trim, especially when used in unique ways like some of these:

Via

3. Showing The Hardwood Floors
So I'm not saying get rid of the rugs or anything, but I have been considering storing some of mine and going for the bare (or mostly bare) look:

Via

She Loves Me Not:

1. Insomnia

I can't sleep. I think it's my age - my mother went through it at my age, too. I sleep about 4 hours a night and am always tired. I try to make the most of it by reading design and humor blogs, and tons of good books.

via

2. Drama

I'm at the point in my life where I know what matters. I wasn't always at that point, and wasted more than enough time worrying about who said what about me, etc., etc. But with my kids growing faster and faster by the second, I've decided I'm just not going to participate in the things that don't matter anymore. It's easier said than done, but a worthwhile goal, I think.

Via

3. Too Many Status Updates

I'd be kind of surprised if this one hasn't been written here before, but I couldn't find it. But really, do I need to know what time every one of my friends is going to bed and what they had for dinner? I love them dearly, but I survived this many nights without a "Goodnight" from them, and I can live with out it now! I wish people would save the Facebook updates for things their friends might actually care about.

via

Um, 60,000 might be too many. Just sayin'.

Thank you again for having me here Michaela! It was so much fun to get to vent (at the end!) and also to share my loves at the beginning :)

~Stacy

***

Thank you, Stacy! I'm diggin' pastels, and also find chronic-status-updaters highly annoying, too ;)

Be sure to go say hello over at Conspicuous Style today! Don't forget to check out Stacy's gorgeous home.
What are you loving this Wednesday?
Love,

PS. Loved all your feedback this last week about joining in on the She Loves Me Link Up! I will be holding the first link up on March 14th! I can't wait to see what you come up with :) Reminders to come closer to the date.
xo

{CLOSED} Giveaway Simply Pillow

2012-02-21T04:45:00.003-08:00

Happy Tuesday! If you've been around for a while, you may know about my infatuation with pillows. They are one of the simplest, most inexpensive ways to spruce up a room, couch, bed etc. I'm so thrilled to be hosting a fabulous pillow giveaway from my sponsor, Simply Pillow!

{Details}
-Karen {the designer behind Simply Pillow} is giving away this cheery 12x18" yellow printed pillow case. I love me some yellow...so I just may have to snatch this one up, too!
-Here's the cool part: Karen is also teaming up with Nicole of Running in Heels {another one of my awesome sponsors} and is giving 10% of her sale's profits to Nicole's I WILL RUN campaign. Here's the quick rundown:
Nicole is running to raise money for a little girl who was abandoned at birth. Arya's story gives reason to her running. She was abandoned by her father at a garbage dump the day she was born. Thankfully, As Our Own rescued Arya, who is now 20 years old and attending college. This spring, Nicole has been chosen to run as part of the I WILL RUN campaign to raise funds for Arya and her college tuition. Together, we can impact her life more than we can even imagine!
Full story found here.

{To Enter: first you must be a follower of MND}
- Visit Simply Pillow on Etsy and comment with which item is your favorite!

{Extra Entries: leave a separate comment for each entry}
- "Like" Simply Pillow on Facebook
- Tweet about the giveaway. {Example tweet: @michaela_noelle is hosting a Simply Pillow giveaway! Don't miss your chance to win an adorable pillow cover. www.michaelanoelledesigns.com}

**giveaway will be open until Sunday, February 26th and winner will be announced Monday the 27th. If you do not have a blog or email attached to your blog, please leave it in your comment. If the winner cannot be reached, another winner will be drawn**

Good luck! Karen is so sweet and is also offering a 10% code to my readers until the end of February! Enter the code FEB10 to receive 10% off at check out.
Hope your Tuesday is wonderful!
Love,

PS. If you'd like to donate to Nicole's I WILL RUN campaign and learn more about Arya, go here.

You Know You're a Blogger if...

2012-02-20T04:45:00.000-08:00

~You keep a list of post ideas in a journal or phone.
~You now understand that online dating could totally work {because we meet and connect with bloggers on a daily basis}.
~You start a sentence with "I was on a blog yesterday and saw the cutest _________"
~You know what a blate is {coined by my dear friend megan}.
~Your day suddenly goes south because dashboard isn't working.
~Everyone in your family knows if your camera is out...the photos will end up on the blog.
~Those same family members do everything in their power to dodge the camera.
~You stalk Sydney & Kendi...my favorite fashion bloggers :) {yes...first name basis)
~You loveee the holidays because it means craft and DIY inspiration galore!
~You use the phrase "I'm totally blogging about this!"
~You were embarrassed for yourself by the name the blogger girl {jenna} on The Bachelor gave us at the beginning of the season. #we'renotallthatcrazy
~Since you've started blogging, you've invested in a better camera.
~You've said "my blog friend ____ told me..."
~You've received weird looks when you say the above sentence.
~You have tried to explain blogging to someone who doesn't blog and given up because they don't understand.
~Peonies are your favorite flower.
~Finding a spelling error in a past post makes you want to cry.
~Rustic weddings are now your fave.
~Learning that a blog friend is engaged or pregnant makes your day.
~You've replaced People magazine with reading blogs instead.
~You consider friends you've met through blogging some of your best friends in the world. {Love this part :) }
~Chevron, ikat, painted furniture, neutral spaces with pops of color, or Kate Spade are now some of your most favorite things.
~You do a project and forget to take pictures then say "Man, that SO could have gone on the blog!"
- You see something in a magazine and think "I could make that myself for way less money!"

And finally, if...

~You love this community so much and think you could never live without it.

made by girl

Am I right, or am I right?! Now it's your turn to make me laugh and to finish the sentence:
You know you're a blogger if ______.

Hope this brought a little smile and laugh to your Monday!
Love,

You're It!

2012-02-18T11:09:00.000-08:00

My sweet friend Carmel {our fifth house} tagged me in this little game. I have to answer the questions she came up with...so here I go!
***
1. If you had a time machine, where or rather when would you go?
Hmm...I'd go back to when I was younger. Life was so care and worry-free!

2. Diamonds or Pearls?
Diamonds please :) Although, a good set of pearls is a staple for any wardrobe!

3. What's your favorite movie?
Serendipity...hands down. It's one of those where you don't want to watch it with me because I know every.single.line.

4. When you were a kid, what was your favorite television show?
I would mostly watch Trading Spaces and HGTV actually...nothing has changed...ha! Other than those two, I remember liking The Big Comfy Couch, Arthur and Lizzie McGuire.

5. Let's pretend you found $50 in your couch cushions, what would you run out and buy?
Some cute shelves for my bedroom {need more storage asap!}, a new pair of flats, or a little springtime dress to get me in the mood for spring break!!

6. What is your favorite color?
If this isn't obvious already then I have a problem communicating my favorite color ;)

7. Why did you start your blog?
July 2010

8. What is your favorite home decor store?
West Elm. BAM.

9. Name one thing in your make-up bag you can not live without?
Mascara. Can't go anywhere without it. Oh- and all my Dermologica products. They are amazing!

10. Do you watch Revenge?
Nope :(

11. Will you still be my friend even though I made you suffer through this little game of tag?
Of course!
********
Alrighty, now I tag all my readers! Whoever wants to play- go right ahead.

Here are the rules:
*Post the rules
*Answer the 11 questions that the tagger posted for you; then create 11 questions to ask the people you've tagged
***
Here are my questions to YOU:
1. If you could eat any type of food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
2. Favorite book?
3. Favorite Season and why?
4. What song is on repeat right now?
5. What's your dream job?
6. Breakfast or dinner?
7. Movie night in or fancy girls night out?
8. Heels or flats?
9. What was the best part of your week?
10. If you could spend one day any place in the world, where would you go?
11. Favorite part about blogging?
***
And for some weekend inspiration / if you still don't know my favorite color, here's a hint...

Traditional Home

Ready. Set. Go.
Have a blessed and fun-filled weekend!
Love,

C-O-L-O-R

2012-02-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

{all images via "style guide" on Southern Living}

Sometimes I just need a well-done punch of color. I think all these above rooms from Southern Living have that, so I couldn't resist sharing! While we're all gaga over the neutral palettes, there's definitely something to be said for some serious c-o-l-o-r, don't you think?! Have you incorporated any fun colors into a space lately? Which is your favorite room above?

A few things...
- My account was hacked yesterday and my blog was deleted and by some miracle, I figured out how to get it back. So a reminder to back up or restore your blog :)
- Sponsor spaces for March are already filling up, so contact me if you're interested in sponsoring Michaela Noelle Designs!
- I've added a new page at the top of my blog called "Contact & Submissions". I'll be doing a once-a-month installment of reader's best DIY projects, crafts, home decor and room makeovers, so head over to the page for more info on what to send me if you'd like to be featured!
- Happy weekend!!

Love,

Swooning Over...

2012-02-16T04:45:00.001-08:00

...everything West Elm! I had the opportunity to visit the Seattle store {which is ah-mazing} last night for a blogger's Spring line tour. With every new product came another "ooohh" and "awww" from my lips. I came armed with my camera and am now here to report my very favorite new finds.

Carved Wood Coffee Table {sale}

Awesome new indoor garden...we got a suspended glass bubble as a gift to put a succulent in. I can't wait to try it out!

Adorable bowls and kitchen goods...

Cute Easter/Springtime tablescape...

West Elm's first oh-so-stylish recliner!

Most genius coffee table I've ever seen in.my.life...the Rustic Storage Coffee Table {sale}

It totally eliminates the ugly TV trays! Am I right?!

Mirrored Buffet

Rustic Kitchen table:

Lots of pretty bedding...

This whole area is all very affordable bedding starting at just $69! Perfect for dorm room bedding.

Loved their idea to turn the books around, so the pages face the viewer. So much lovely texture!

Well, picture over load is over. I hope you take some time to visit their website! Or better yet, a store location, because my goodness...it is an experience! And just so you know, you may think their prices are high {like Pottery Barn or Williams Sonoma}, but they are the lowest price point of the three stores. This is one reason I love them most- they have the most affordable and stylish {in my opinion!} home goods around :) I picked a little something up for a lucky reader...more details to come soon on that giveaway.

**I was not compensated for this post in any way, I simply love West Elm and their products!**

What's your favorite new item?!
Have a beautiful Thursday!
Love,

PS. Speaking of Seattle bloggers and events...meet my sponsors the Ravenna Girls!

Brianne and Danielle live in Seattle and love DIY projects, decorating their home, renovating their little bungalow and much more! They have two awesome Etsy shops: 1. vintage finds & 2. vintage upcycled handmade items. Check them out :)
BLOG | SHOP

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: Me!

2012-02-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

I love having guest bloggers here on Wednesday's to share what they are loving and not loving, but I also love popping in every once and while to share my loves, too!

Here's what has my heart and what is making me look the other way...

She Loves Me:
1. Seafoam. Just can't get this palette out of my mind. Even more delectable is seafoam paired with a pop of tangerine. Yum.

via

2. Scarves. It is a rare day to see me without a scarf wrapped around my neck. What can I say? I'm a California girl trying to rough it in Washington (ha!) I need to stay warm!!

via

3. Springtime Dishes. Anthropologie never fails to leave me swooning. These plates make me want Spring to arrive, like...yesterday.

via

4. He Is We. One of my favorite bands. Listen right now!

5. That I get to go to West Elm tonight for a preview of all their new Spring line products! So excited to be invited! Maybe I'll pick something up for you :)

6. This little pup. I get to see her again in 35 days! I'm getting reports that she's the star-student in her doggy training class. That's my girl!

7. Lipstick. I'm a big fan. I wear pink almost everyday and red for special occasions :)

photo credit: victoria carlson photography

She Loves Me Not:
1. Courtney from The Bachelor. There really are no words to describe her. All I have to say is if Ben likes her, all the other girls should just go home because they deserve someone way better- someone who will really value a woman! Also...what's up with that lip thing she does?! It's so hard to watch. I'm pretty sure we can all agree she's just in it for the competition. Thoughts?

2. When people ask me how "decorating school" is going {or refer to my degree being in "interior decorating"} Call me snooty, but I'm {paying} to go to school for interior design and will be qualified to move walls, work with architects from the ground-up, and do things that truly involve the design and structure of a home or building. Alright...off my soap box now :) {This is not to say decorators are incompetent...some of my favorite people in the field are considered decorators. The girls in my major just liked to be referred to as what we really are...hehe}

3. Airfare being so darn expensive! If I had three wishes, one would definitely be for unlimited, free-of-charge air travel. {I also wish I had the ability to look this fab while flying...}

via

***
That's all! What are you loving this Wednesday?
QUESTION: If I were to make She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not a link up party once a month, who would join the party?! I tweeted about it the other week and I've already had some interest. Let me know!

Happy Wednesday!
Love,

Pink + Red = Love

2012-02-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

via

On my desk:

In my belly: {will be melting this chocolate block down and dipping the strawberries. Favorite dessert!}

Happy Valentine's Day!
May you reflect on all the sweet blessings in your life that you love.
Embrace the pink & red & chocolate today! :)

xoxo,

PS. Catch me over at Mackey Madness today sharing some things on my love list.

{Fashion} Little Black Dress

2012-02-13T04:45:00.000-08:00

Dress: Anthropologie
Boots: Dillards
Headband: White House Black Market
Bracelet: Velina Bracelets...I won this beautiful bracelet from a giveaway done by Velina on Anna's blog {In Honor of Design}. I just adore it!! Mine is called Aria.

Did you ever play dress up when you were little? I sure did. I'd change my clothes 4 times a day, putting on the necessary outfit for each activity {ie. playing outside, playing teacher, artist, baking...} My favorite, though, was to go in to mom's closet while she was at work and try on her pretty dresses and high heel shoes. To this day, I just love getting dressed up. There's something about it that makes me feel like a child at heart, but also a grown up...all at the same time. I've been on the hunt for a new "LBD" for while. When I spotted this one, I knew I had found it. It's classic and flirty with the touch of ruffles and small opening in the back. Here's to hoping it will never go out of style! Because I plan on wearing it to all important events and future dates. Okay, I'll probably need to switch it up every now and then :)

I'm linking up with Anna of In Honor of Design for her True Beauty series!
**All photos were taken & edited by Victoria Carlson Photography. Take a look at her photo blog and be ready to be inspired. Her photos are amazing :) **

Happy Monday!
Love,

PS. Welcome to my sponsor Nicole from Running in Heels!

Nicole is a beautiful girl- inside and out- who write about fitness, love, life, and of course shoes :) Nicole inspires me to exercise and to love the Lord more fully! She's also doing something super neat and raising money for a little girl who was abandoned at birth by running for the I WILL RUN campaign. Here's what Nicole has to say about it:
"Her story gives reason to my running. Her name is Arya, and she was abandoned by her father at a garbage dump the day she was born. Thankfully, As Our Own rescued Arya, who is now 20 years old and attending college. This spring, I have been chosen to run as part of the I WILL RUN campaign to raise funds for Arya and her college tuition. Together, we can impact her life more than we can even imagine."
Go here to donate and learn more.
xoxo

Spill it: Favorite Part About Valentine's Day

2012-02-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Saturday! I couldn't be more thrilled the weekend is here! After a long week with 3 midterms, I'm d.o.n.e and ready for a whole lot of...nothing {except movies, hot chocolate, & skyping with the pup back home! Okay...and a wee bit of homework}

I'm also excited to introduce you properly to my lovely sponsors for the month! You're going to want to read about them and then run right over and click the "follow" button...because they are all awesome. I also asked them what their favorite thing about Valentine's Day is, so here we go...

***

Karen. I was born in Hong Kong, then move to England when I was 14. A year ago I moved to California and married my wonderful husband, Albert. I still miss England a lot and I know one day (hopefully not too long) we will move back there. Simply Pillow was developed after I bought my sewing machine because I need an activity beside cleaning our place while I waited for my husband get off work.

My favorite part of Valentine's Day is seeing all the Valentine's day cards in store and it is so hard to choose just ONE out all those cute and romantic ones. The best part is every year, my husband prepared a home cooked dinner for us!

BLOG | Simply Pillow SHOP

***

Nicole. That picture above, it's a little misleading because I rarely look that put together. I'm a runner, and between attending class to become a Physical Therapist and running to stay active, my wardrobe consists mostly of those fabulous drifit running clothes. So if you're looking for a fashion blog, I'd recommend you continue your search elsewhere, unless of course you find spandex and sweaty hair fashionable :) Being the health & fitness nerd that I am, I blog a lot about living healthy and you guessed it, running. I also blog about my life (which is crazy most of the time) and my adventure of returning to college after taking 2 years off. Oh yeah, and my dog Dakota, well she tends to steal the show, so don't be taken back if you see a lot of her around my blog. She's a running addict just like her mama, and thinks she owns the world...just like her mama :)

My favorite thing about Valentine's Day is all the love that everyone's not afraid of sharing. It gives us an excuse to give an extra hug, smile a little more, and share candy with those around us. Who says you need a significant other to love on someone else this Valentine's Day? Not me!

BLOG

***

Katy. Owner of Twenty Three Oh One. My shop offers fun, fresh and modern stationery designs to celebrate those special moments in life. I make everything from save the dates to party invitations, and am adding more designs almost every day, so be sure to check it out! I live in west Texas with my sweet husband Bryan and we are SO very excited to welcome our first baby boy to the world this May. Check out my blog to learn a little more about me!

My favorite part of Valentine's Day is just being able to hang out with my husband. We aren't big on gifts or elaborate dates, but we always look forward to to snuggling up on the couch with a pizza, a good movie, and some quality time together!

SHOP | BLOG

***

Brianne & Danielle. Together we're the Ravenna Girls. We are two Seattle gals who are trained as architects and are nerds for design. Our blog is a chronicle of home renovation on our 1922 bungalow, as well as our search for vintage treasure, crafty DIYs, and some other random life thrown in! We also have two etsy shops, one for vintage finds and one for vintage upcycled handmade items.

Our favorite part of Valentine's Day is the sweets! Everything heart shaped, covered in sprinkles and frosting just seems to be more delicious this month! A local cupcake establishment, Cupcake Royale, Tmakes this special cupcake during February called the Deathcake.... it is chocolate covered in espresso ganache with fleur de sel... Nothing says "I love ya" more!
SHOP | BLOG

***

Claudia. Wife to one, momma to two, human to two (felines), relentless crafter and passionate dreamer.

I guess my favorite part of V-Day now that I am an old married woman (LOL) is making a special family evening out of it. This year my plans include heart-shaped pasta, pink lemonade for the boys, pink muscat wine for my husband and me - and fondue for everyone!!! The best part of any holiday is seeing it through our kids' eyes - each year they understand more and want to participate more in every tradition.
BLOG

***

Jessica. I blog at Life with My Loves. I'm a lucky girl who's married to her best friend and Mommy to the most amazing kiddos ever. I'm a nurse who takes care of kids with cancer and other blood disorders. As hard as it is, I wouldn't change my job for a million bucks. I love baseball (Go Rays!!!) and all things USF (Go Bulls!!!). I dabble in photography and I pretend to be a runner. All in all, I living life to the fullest and loving every minute of it!

I love those Conversation Hearts candies, but only the green and yellow ones. Yes I only like those particular colors. Does that make me strange? I also love sending Valentine's to people. A little bit of love can go a long way.

BLOG

***

Jillian Nicole. I'm just pleased as punch to meet you all! I'm a Southern California native who fell in love with a Brit, and is now trying to navigate her way through the ex-pat life in Scotland! Weddings make my little heart go pitter-patter, I've never met a dessert I didn't like, and I think my husband is definitely the most handsome man God ever created!:) If you're inspired by gorgeously styled events, if peonies make you go weak in the knees, and if you love to have a good gush over all things pretty, then we're sure to be fast friends!

Since we were long distance last year, my favourite thing about Valentine's Day this year is that I get to spend it as Handsome Husband's wife! Though, the yummy, Lindt truffles that HH always gets me are definitely a close second!:)

BLOG

***

There ya have it. And me, you ask? My fave part of Valentine's Day are all the cards, love, red & pink, and of course some serious treats for this sweet tooth!

What's your favorite part about the 14th?
Have a blessed weekend :)
Love,

PS. Catch me over at Anna's blog, A Newfound Treasure, to see what my favorite fashion and design trend are at the moment in her i Heart series! So fun :)

{Before & After} Client Sitting Room

2012-02-10T04:45:00.000-08:00

My heart was overflowing with joy when these images popped into my inbox last week! A while back I blogged about an e-design I did for the sweetest client, Carolyn. She wanted to update her living room into a sitting room/library of sorts. Carolyn has been keeping me updated on her progress ever since we finished her inspiration board!
To take us through the design stages, here is the before, room we used as inspiration, and the after:

After seeing her space and learning about the look she was going for {she sent me the photo of the living room above via Live Creating Yourself blog}

I came up with this design plan:

And that design plan shortly became this comfortable and totally chic little sitting room...

Caitlin Wilson Textile pillow is front and center...be still my heart.

And that right there, friends, is why I love interior design. What a joy it is to see a design plan collide with real life and spill out in our homes :)

Didn't Carolyn do a FAB job putting the room together?! What's your favorite part?

If you're interested in my e-design services, I'd be happy to work with you! Take a look at my e-design page and email me for more information and pricing at michaelawarner90@gmail.com

Have a beautiful weekend!
Love,

PS. Shortly I will be in search of person or family in the Bay Area, California who would be willing to let me design a room in their home {design services free of charge}. The client will only need to be willing to make the changes and put the money into the space. A more informative blog post will follow soon, but if you are interested please email me :) Design process would be happening over the summer of 2012.
xo

Also catch my guest post over at A Newfound Treasure...I'm sharing what I heart:

DIY Heart Jar

2012-02-09T04:50:00.000-08:00

I'm back with one last simple craft before heart-day arrives! This one is super quick and could even be fun for the kiddos. If you missed my valentine cards on Tuesday, go here. Let my mason jar obsession continue...

Materials: Any type of clear jar, tissue paper, scissors, glue stick.

ONE: Start by folding tissue paper in half and cutting different sized hearts out.

TWO: Using the glue stick, adhere the tissue paper hearts on the jar. Overlapping, layered and upside down hearts are encouraged :)

Finished Product:

Stick a candle in, and your tissue paper hearts will come to life!

**All photos taken and edited by Victoria Carlson Photography. Be sure to check out her awesome photo blog. If you're looking for a photographer in the Seattle area, Tori is wonderful**
***
Ahh...just glowing! Told you it was easy-peasy. I'm sorry I post crafts having to do with mason jars all.the.time. I can't help it- there's endless possibilities! {pretty lace vase, chalkboard pencil & pen holder jar}

Alright friends, share in the comments some of you last minute favorite ways to decorate for Valentine's Day!
Have a wonderful Thursday:)
Love,

PS. Welcome to my sponsor Casa de Berry!

Claudia's sweet blog is full of home decorating, crafts, DIY's and glimpses into her own home and garden. I adore all of her ideas! Check out this cute Valentine's Banner she made :) You will love it!

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: Southern Inspired

2012-02-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

My favorite day of the week is here! 1. Because Wednesday means we're halfway through the week, and 2. because I get to introduce you to another of my favorite blogger friends! This week my dear friend Dana, from Southern Inspired

is here sharing what she's loving and what she's not. Dana is just the kindest, most adorable girl. She loves her husband, interior design, color, and all things pretty! I feel blessed to call her a friend {even if she's just a blog friend;) } Take it away, Dana...
***

Hi! I'm Dana from Southern Inspired and I'm so happy to be over here on Michaela's beautiful blog today!

I just love this 'She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not' series and was so excited to put together my picks for you! Here we go...

1. Stripes - of any variety! Black and white, colorful, preppy...I love them all!

2. Oversized Wide-Rimmed Glasses - They are so geeky chic and I do believe I need a pair!

3. Arnold Palmers - My favorite drink year-round. Even better in a mason jar!

-----------------------------------------------------------

1. Drying my hair - I despise it. Pretty sure I have 3 heads of hair on my 1 head, so needless to say, it takes f-o-r-e-v-e-r!

2. Going to the Dentist - I have a dentist appointment next week and I'm dreading it! Wish me luck!

3. Spring Clothes in Winter - I don't love seeing cute spring clothes out in February! Currently, my husband and I are living in Oklahoma where the temps are frigid and the wind is brutal. Seeing colorful spring tops, maxi skirts and strappy sandals have got this girl dreaming of warmer weather!

[image sources :: jcrew striped bag // coral striped top // h&m striped skirt // breton striped snood // google images // instagram // google images // dentistry // teal maxi skirt // neon silk top // Kate Spade sandals]

Thanks so much for letting me share today, Michaela!
***

Thanks, Dana! I'm also lovin' stripes and hoping to get some new pieces come spring with lots of them! Blowdrying my hair seems to be the death of me also...talk about coarse, thick hair...yikes!

Now run on over to Southern Inspired to say hello :)

What are you loving this week?

Happy Wednesday! Back tomorrow with another Valentine's craft.

Love,

DIY Valentine Cards

2012-02-07T04:45:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I'm a sucker for receiving snail mail. And if it's a letter from a friend, it just about makes my week :) Since I can't bake for my girlfriends due to the distance between us, for Valentine's Day this year, I wanted to send out a cute, little {literally} something to all my girlfriends. I cooked up a really fun and easy craft. Oh, and the kicker- I had everything needed for the project at my house already, except for the tags I used as cards. {$2.99 at Joann's}

Materials: Ribbon, lace, scissors, glue, decorative paper, brads and a brad hole puncher if you'd like :)

One: Use the colored ribbon to adorn the little greeting cards. Cut out hearts of decorative paper or even tissue paper!

Two: Add small brads as decorative details.

Three: Make paper flowers by cutting out messy circles of tissue paper. Crunch the tissue paper and layer one on top of the other. Fasten it by sticking a brad through the middle of the flower.

Four: On some of the cards I used Puff Paint to write on the ribbon once it was glued down.

Finished Product:

What I love about these are how simple and colorful they are. These could also be used as little gift tags for birthdays or holidays. So many options!
Just a small note letting someone know you love them could be the cherry-on-top of their week :)

**All photos taken and edited by Victoria Carlson Photography. Be sure to check out her awesome photo blog. If you're looking for a photographer in the Seattle area...she's your girl**

I'm sharing this post with Today's Creative Blog.
Do you send out Valentines?
Love,

PS. Welcome to my new sponsor Twenty Three Oh One! Katy designs modern, fresh, and fun designs for you to print on your own. She sells save the dates, birth announcements, greeting
cards, and party invitations.

Katy is so talented and all of her designs are truly adorable! Be sure to stop by her shop and then head over to her blog for more fun.

SHOP | BLOG

Spread the Love: My Story

2012-02-06T04:45:00.000-08:00

Last week Anna, Megan and I challenged our readers to start a movement of Kindness. We threw out a bunch of ideas of how to spread the love throughout the week. I'm super excited to read what you all did! Here's what I decided to do...

Since my favorite tea shop went out of business, I've been going to Starbucks every-other-day to get my zebra hot-chocolate. On Friday I went in to get my regular, and decided to pick up a gift card and put $5 on it.

Me {to the cashier}: This is going to be a little weird, but can you actually keep the gift card and give it to the next person who walks in the door after I leave?
Cashier: Are you serious? This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done. How cool! I've never witnessed someone doing this.
Me: Yeah, I write a blog and we're trying to spread some love this week with random acts of kindness!
Cashier: Wow, that's awesome. I'm totally going to do this today for someone else at a restaurant or something!
Me: That's what we were hoping it would spark!

So I took a pen and wrote "Pay it Forward" on the envelope, hoping to encourage that person to do the same for someone else someday!

Isn't that amazing?! I hope she followed through and did it for someone else :) It's so neat to feel so much joy in my heart just by passing along a few dollars to someone at Starbucks. There's a sense of mystery to it, too, which I love, because I didn't know who would end up with it.

I also wrote a few hand written notes and even picked up a little something for my BFF Megan. Don't tell though cause it's in the mail. Okay I ruined the surprise...oops! :)

What did you do to spread the love?!

Be sure to tell me in the comments, write a post about it, and link it up with Megan at Mackey Madness. Anna, Megan and I will be reading through them today. Thanks to everyone who's joining in on the fun!

Feel free to include this graphic in your post!

Let's make it our goal as a community to share smiles, laughs, kindness and love throughout this whole month-even to people we've never met!

Happy Monday!
Love,

PS. I'm over at Amy's sweet blog today answering some fun questions. Pop over to Five Kinds of Happy to get to know me more! She writes the cutest design blog...you are missing out if you've never visited!

Vlog from Me & the Pup

2012-02-04T13:49:00.000-08:00

What's a weekend post around here without an update on the pup?! Here are some photos I tried {and failed} at taking when I visited Hope and the fam a few weeks ago. She was a tad bit hyper...ha!

And if you want to see her in action, this little Vlog should make you laugh :)

Did you hear her growling? We promise she's a dog and not a lion ;)
***
Don't forget to do a random act of kindness this weekend and link up with Megan at Mackey Madness on Monday!! {The link will be open through the week so you can still play along} For more info go here.
Feel free to use this cute button that Anna of In Honor of Design made for the link up! I just love being apart of a movement with these two girls :)

Can't wait to read about what everyone did to spread some love!

Happy weekend!
Love,

{Valentine Inspiration} A Dose of Red & Pink

2012-02-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe we're in the 3rd day of February already!! Goodness. With the 14th coming up, I thought I'd round up some of my favorite Valentine Day projects and decor. Yesterday I tweeted asking anyone to send in their crafts, and I got a few great ones! Here we go...

Doily Heart Runner by Hi Sugarplum

Message in a Bottle by In Honor of Design

Cute Valentine's Buffet by Imperfectly Polished

Free Printables from Hello Monday!

Valentine's Mantel by A Thoughtful Place

Heart Canvas DIY by Consider the Lilies

Red Velvet Pancakes by Twirl

"I Love You" Valentine's Card by Twirl

Heart Wreaths from Better Homes and Garden

Heart Garland by Martha Stewart

Cute Silhouette Printables from Dear Lillie {they'll be in the Dear Lillie shop:) }

So fun, right?! Have you found any projects you're going to try?! Pinterest is such a great resource around the holidays {and always!} Are you a Valentine's Day person?

I'll be back next week with 2...yep...TWO...Valentine DIY's. So excited :)
Have a wonderful weekend :)
Love,

PS. Don't forget to do your random act of kindness this weekend and link up telling your story on Monday with Mackey Madness!! More info here. You can use this image as your icon for the post!

On My Desk: Furniture Plan Reveal

2012-02-02T04:45:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I posted these two images on my Facebook Page. I asked for your input on which furniture plan you liked best. The funny thing was the results were totally split down the middle! Here's a look at the two options...

Want to know what the project was for?! Thanks for asking ;)
Next Fall I'll be transferring to the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising as a direct transfer program with Seattle Pacific {where I currently attend.} This is the whole reason I came up to rainy Seattle in the first place. My dream has always been to go to FIDM, but I also so desired the four-year college experience that SPU offered me. Direct transfer program, two degrees in four years....?? Yes please.
So, this project was my entrance admissions project to be officially accepted into FIDM. Because asking my readers to do the project for me would have been cheating, I had actually already picked the layout I was going to use before I posted the photos. Just wanted to see what people thought :)
Here's the one I went with...with a few little tweaks!

Why it works: Some people were concerned with the couch placement in regards to the TV. I don't like TV or media centers to be the focus of a room, so I wanted to create a room with great conversation placement. I really wanted the focus on the fireplace, so by placing the custom built-in's next to the fireplace, I think it will do just that. Placing the chairs in front of the windows allows for a better view, as the couch would block the light too much. The rug really unifies the whole space by anchoring the room {without a rug, the furniture would look like it was floating!}

Before I landed on the final design plan, I went through a few looks. I originally thought I wanted a traditional look with a few modern pieces, but realized when I put it in my design program I wasn't feelin' it...

I switched out the rug and curtains and felt MUCH better about the design plan:

It feels a lot more fresh, right?!

I finished up the project by putting together a design board with fabrics and furniture choices...

I sent the project off to FIDM last week and am excited to hear what they think. No one has ever not gotten in to FIDM from SPU, so I'm not too worried...but if I don't...that statement was highly embarrassing for me to tell you all ;)

I'm linking this project up with Amanda from Serenity Now!
That's my little project for the week! What do you think?! Man, I love what I do.
Happy Thursday!
Love,

PS. Welcome to my new sponsor Jillian Nicole of the ever-adorable blog Mimi Nicole

I'm so happy to have connected with Jillian, as she has just the sweetest personality! Over at her blog, you'll find all sorts of lovely inspiration. She loves all things wedding and is an aspiring wedding and event coordinator. Jillian also has such a wonderful eye for putting colors and collages together. Get to know her now :)

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: Danielle Oakey Interiors

2012-02-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday & February, friends! Today I'm excited to introduce Danielle from Danielle Oakey Interiors

Danielle is an interior design graduate who writes about all things home & design. I love her blog for stylish inspiration, new interior design ideas and peeks into her own home! Danielle's use of color is one of the things I adore most about her style. I'm so happy she's here today sharing what she's loving and what she's not!

***

Hi everyone, I am Danielle from Danielle Oakey Interiors.

I am so happy that Michaela invited me to be a part of this series!

SHE LOVES ME:

1. Emory

I couldn't resist placing my spunky little 3 year old girl Emory as #1. She keeps me on my toes and I am obsessed with her :)

2. Chiang Mai Dragon Pillows

I am really excited about my new $40.00 Chiang Mai Dragon pillows.

They were such a great deal and I adore them.

3. Animals

I love love love accessorizing with animals, especially ceramic ones.

I used this sweet little bird in an entry I recently helped accessorize.

4. Anthrpologie's Volcano Candle.

Best smelling candle ever. I can't get enough!

SHE LOVES ME NOT:

1. Grocery Shopping

I loathe grocery shopping but I love food. Such a weekly dilemma. :)

2. Medical School

My husband is in his 3rd year of Medical School.

It-is-miserable.

I can't wait to have my hubby back.

{image via here}

3. Pictures Hung Too High

One of my biggest pet peeves in interiors is when pictures are hung too high on a wall.

Obviously this one is done just right and it gives me warm fuzzes.

{image via here}

Thanks so much for having me!

xoxo,

Danielle

***
Thanks, girl! I also adore those pillows and Anthro candles...I always have one burning :) And pictures hung to high {or low for that matter} always bothers me, too!

Be sure to stop by to say hello to Danielle and check out her lovely home at Danielle Oakey Interiors.

What are you loving this week?
Happy Wednesday!
Love,

Remodelaholic!

2012-01-31T15:41:00.000-08:00

Just stopping in to say the sweet Cassity from Remodelaholic is featuring my chevron dresser today! Head over to take a peek at the post :) Thanks Cassity...I'm honored!

While you're over there, be sure to spend some time looking at all the other fab projects Remodelaholic has to offer! You'll love it.

Have a great evening :)
xo

{Loving} Color

2012-01-31T04:45:00.000-08:00

{via- complete home tour here}

How's that for some Tuesday inspiration? {I think we all needed that after last night's horribly upsetting episode of the Bachelor! Are you with me?!}
While surfing none other than House Beautiful, I found some delightful images I knew I needed to share. What was it about these interiors that I loved oh-so-much? The color and textures! I also love that I'm not normally drawn to spaces with the least bit of clutter, and yet I adore both the bookcases and desk space. I'd call that stylish-clutter {now you're all asking yourself if you can justify your desk area ;) }...and any bulletin board with that much inspiration pinned up is a winner if you ask me!

What's your favorite element in these spaces?!
Love,

PS. The winner of the Twirl headband giveaway is #16, Jessica of A Day in the Life of the Crimella's. Hooray! I will email you today to get you your prize :)

Spread the Love

2012-01-30T04:45:00.000-08:00

Hi friends! I'm very excited today because me and a few of my favorite blog pals are hoping to start a movement of kindness. Since the month of love is just around the corner, I'm teaming up with Anna of In Honor of Design and Megan of Mackey Madness to hopefully encourage our readers to find fun and creative ways to spread the love this week! You may remember we did this last year, too. It was so encouraging and inspiring to read about all the different ways people showed kindness to others. Because the blogosphere is such an awesome, supportive community, what better place to start a movement?! If each of us do something intentionally kind this week, just think of how many people we could touch.

via

Here are a few ways to join in...

-Strike up a conversation with someone and ask how their day is. They'll feel important!

-Go through a drive-thru and pay for the person's food behind you.

-Give a homeless person a gift card to get food.

-Leave a sweet note on someone's car in a parking lot.

-Mail your old a friend an encouraging letter.

-By flowers for your neighbor or friend.

-Send out a text telling your friends and family how much you love and appreciate them.

-Pay for the person's starbucks' behind you. (I just put 5 dollars on a gift card and give it to the cashier and tell them to let the person a few folks behind me use it.)

-Simply smile at the person who you pass in the mall. They'll be caught off guard.

-Offer to get groceries for your mom.

-Let that person pull out from the parking lot and get in front of you on the road.

-Call your grandma!

-Buy something simple for a friend or loved one...just because.

-Do a random act of kindness that you get no recognition for, but brighten someone else's day.

via

Be creative! And we want to hear about it :) Next Monday {February 6th} Megan, over at Mackey Madness, will be holding a link up party where we are able to write a post about what we did and link it up for others to read. Let's see how many people can spread kindness this week.

Ready.Set.Go.

We hope you'll join us in spreading the love. Leave your ideas of what to do in the comments!

Happy Monday

Love,

PS. Only one more day to enter the Twirl Headband giveaway! The giveaway ends tonight and winner will be announced tomorrow!!

The Month of Love

2012-01-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

...is just around the corner!

And since puppy Hope & I all love you, we're offering a discounted rate for the month of February!
Spots are already going quick so please email me at michaelawarner90@gmail.com to inquire! We {Hope and I, of course!} would love to help promote your business, blog or shop!

In other news, my dad thought it'd be a great idea to teach Hope how to run on the treadmill.

....and it's totally working.
What a healthy, fit little girl ;)

Happy Weekend!
Love,

{Fashion Friday} 1 Look, 3 Ways

2012-01-27T04:45:00.000-08:00

::one::

No Heat Curls Tutorial found here.

::two::

::three::

Sweater: B.P. Nordstrom
Jeans: Vigoss
Leather Jacket: Nordstrom
Blazer: B.P Nordstrom
Skirt: Nordstrom
Tall Boots: Steve Madden; Cowgirl Boots: Dillards; Flats: Steve Madden
Scarf: Nordstrom
Sunglasses: Anthropologie (only $5)
{Okay...so I kind of like Nordstrom;) }

I'm really trying to budget my money better lately, and one way I'm doing that is by mixing and matching outfits! Clearly it would be obvious if I wore the three outfits above one day after another, but spacing them out a few weeks apart would be doable :)
Remember that one goal of mine for 2012?
Start investing in clothing. This means I want to buy less clothing, but I want the clothes I do buy to be of good quality- lasting me for a while!
These outfits are me trying to mix my staple items (blazer, leather jacket, boots} with other less expensive and fun pieces.

I'm also really keen on the color red right now. I've never really experimented with red in my wardrobe, but let me tell ya...I'm likin' it. I'm liking it so much that I may have bought a red lipstick the other day to be friends with the red sweater. What can I say? It was calling my name. I just couldn't resist.

Do you have any pieces in your wardrobe that you mix and match? Which look out of the above 3 is your favorite?
Have a great weekend!
Love,

PS. All the beautiful photos were taken and edited by Victoria Carlson Photography. She is.the.best.

PPS. I'm sharing this post with Anna, of In Honor of Design's True Beauty Files.

It's a Great Day for a Giveaway!

2012-01-26T04:45:00.000-08:00

Hi friends and readers! To thank you for following this here blog {all 1300 of you...hooray:) } I have a great little giveaway for you. Laura, from Twirl blog, is giving away a darling headband from her etsy shop. Take a peek:

And since I'm all about packaging...look how cute they will arrive at your house! :)

The Details:
One lucky reader will win one headband in the color of your choice
&

as a little gift from me, I'm also throwing in a one month ad space on Michaela Noelle Designs for your blog if you have one {of course you can still enter to win if you don't blog!}

How to Enter:
First, be a follower of Michaela Noelle Designs blog and comment letting me know which color headband you'd choose!

Then, for Extra Entries...
*Follow Twirl blog
*"Like" MND on Facebook
*Tweet about the giveaway {Example: Check out the adorable headband giveaway hosted by @laurabrowe on @michaela_noelle's blog. www.michaelanoelledesigns.com}

That's all, folks :) Enjoy your Thursday!
Love,

PS. You can find me over at one of my favorite design blogs, Emily A. Clark, today!

Emily started a new series where she asks a few bloggers to send in one picture of the topic for that week. This week? Our favorite DIY's. Emily is a stylish decorator with lots of inspiration. She's the first design blog I ever found :)