favorite west elm accessories

If you have read my previous home decor posts, you may have noticed I am obsessed with West Elm. I get endless inspiration from their designs and color schemes. Their  crisp yet lived-in furniture and accessories blend beautifully with any home decor styles, from contemporary to eclectic. As such, I have picked out my top 10 favorite West Elm home decor items of the moment--even just one of these would freshen up a dull space! xo.

1. Pillow Cover; 2. Vases; 3. Candlesticks; 4. Tray; 5. Picture Frame; 6. Pouf; 7. Lamp; 8. Rug; 9. Throw; 10. Floor Mirror

waffle grilled panini

Living in a 900 sf. condo has it's perks, but one thing I had to learn is how to be creative in a small kitchen with limited space for appliances. When I was registering for wedding gifts 2 years ago, a panini maker was not on the list [though I really wanted one]. We just didn't have room for it! However, I did get a Belgian waffle maker that not only makes amazing waffles but doubles as a panini press.

All you need to make a delicious panini is:
2 slices of bread
Butter or margarine
Season salt [optional]
Cheese of your choice, shredded or sliced [sliced is less messy]
Sliced deli meat of your choice
Veggies such as tomatoes or avocados [optional]

Directions
1. Spread a very small amount of butter or margarine on one side of each slice of bread. I used about 1/8 tbsp. for each slice. Sprinkle lightly with season salt for extra flavor.

2. Once the waffle maker is at desired temp [I set it on the highest temp because it cooks faster and gets super crunchy], place one slice of bread butter side down on the grill. Add a slice or two of meat and a slice of cheese, then put other slice of bread butter side up on top of the sandwich. If using shredded cheese, sprinkle a little in the middle of the sandwich so that when it melts, it will not go over the edges and get all over your waffle maker.

3. Close the waffle maker and let the sandwich sizzle in there for about a minute or two. You can open it up periodically and check to see how "done" it is. I like mine pretty brown, but if you don't you can take it out sooner.

4. Turn off the waffle maker and remove the sandwich with a fork or tongs. Lift up the top slice of bread and insert sliced tomato, avocado, etc. if you'd like [it would get kind of messy to add those in before cooking.] Serve with ranch to dip in if desired.

valentine's day date dresses

I love getting decked out in reds and pinks for V-day dinner. Call me traditional, but there is something so romantic and sweet about those colors! Whether you are going out for cocktails with your beau or a fancy sit-down dinner with the hubby, these outfits will make your date do a double [or triple] take when you greet him at the door. Ah, l'amour... xo.

flirty dress / sweet dress / sultry dress / heart earrings / wing bracelet / hearts bracelets / arrow necklace 1 / arrow necklace 2 / pumps / flats / sandals

polished + dramatic dining room

This dining room is such a refreshing mix of high style polish and drama. The white walls create an airy, clean feeling with a wash of sunlight; in the evening, this room's soft overhead light and dark wood tones make for a dramatic, moody space. xo.

Inspiration room from Houzz.com.


1. 13" Sq. Gallery Frame, West Elm; 2. Wishbone Black Wood Y Chair, Overstock.com; 3. Potted Palm, IKEA; 4. Green Line Table Lamp, CB2; 5. Terra Dining Table, West Elm; 6. Parsons Buffet, West Elm; 7. Oversized Equator Pendant Lamp, CB2.

valentine's day gift guide

Wondering what to get your significant other this Valentine's Day? These adorable gifts are sure to win his or her heart and make Cupid blush! xo.

1. MICHAEL Michael Kors Saffiano Medium Travel Tote, Macy's; 2. AE Hearts Glow Boxer, American Eagle; 3. Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Wild Hearts' iPhone Case, Nordstrom; 4. Insulated Six-Pack Holder, World Market; 5. Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Stardust' iPad Case, Nordstrom; 6. Vinturi Essential Wine Aerator, World Market; 7. 'Be Mine' Heart Charm, James Avery; 8. Floating Hearts Starbucks Card, Starbucks; 9. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries [6/box], Edible Arrangements.