Now, more than ever, is the time to make things memorable. The pandemic has shut down the country and left people homebound while some of our smartest minds try to resolve the vaccine issue. Here at our house, we are going back to the basics and making the most out of what we have in our own homes. Sometimes just setting a pretty table can elevate a simple weeknight meal and lift everyone’s spirits when set on a pretty table! It is the little extra effort that seems to make the most impact on people’s overall morale. It could be getting together and clapping for our frontline workers or coming out on our balcony and wishing one another a good evening that makes a difference, but it truly is the little things. We think we will look back at 2020 and remember how we celebrated the little achievements. We embraced our time in isolation by making the best of the situation. Whether it’s using nice dishes (these are from Williams Sonoma) to set the table for dinner or assembling a charcuterie board for appertivo on the back porch, we try hard to make it memorable. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or fancy. We are in a time when we make the best with the things we have at home. Flowers from the yard create a simple centerpiece to complete the look. We may not have any guests to celebrate with, but we have each other.
Office transformation…
A big shout out to my interior designer and personal stylist for making the Shookhill Secret workspace so incredibly beautiful! This office transformation is a game changer for us. What was a messy, cramped dumping ground has now become a sanctuary and beautiful place to work. When you have a clean organized space, getting to work just seems easier and more enjoyable. You spend less time searching for needed items and more time being productive. This was never more apparent than when I allowed a designer into my space. The image on the far left shows how desperately my little Harry Potter office under the stairs needed a makeover. I absolutely love the Serena & Lily wallpapered accent wall, refinished cabinet, upholstered chair and the Commodore navy paint. The new live edge piece of canary wood that we found at West Penn Hardwoods is absolutely stunning. You were absolutely right, this new floating desk is a perfect fit for my petite office space. It is so nice to have a lovely place to work. I enjoyed every step of this project and can’t wait to tackle another makeover project with you. I appreciate all of your finishing details like the Safavieh rug, elegant desk lamp, and woven organizer baskets. Of coarse, a fresh bouquet of hydrangeas for the “reveal” always makes everything nicer. You are a very talented young woman..this office transformation is a 10!