I Get By With A Little Help...

Fabulous lamp, isn't it?

Well...I wasn't convinced I needed it. Only $40, the twinkle in my eye was drawn to it but I couldn't justify my taking the plunge.  It was my "style" (Check.) and could be easily married in my office project or in our family room. Then I talked myself out of it. Blech. The white lampshade (and that dreadful plastic which covered it) threw me off.

I picked up my phone and called my sister from another mama, Annette. I sent her a quick text of this photo and the possibilities unleashed.  What about covering the shade in a deep burlap or a charcoal gray?, she insisted suggested. The lamps were BORN (and I grabbed 'em).  Thank goodness for friends; especially friends who are celebrity stylists, right? Ha!

What type of shopper are you? Confident in your decisions? Or do you sometimes need a little nudge?

A TBS Primer: A Halloween Soiree On A Budget for the Chic, Fabulous and Us Procrastinators

I usually do little more for Halloween than try to evade the candy-grubbing kids in our neighborhood—all six of them! Hey, why should I buy a monstrous bag of candy for only six kids? I’d rather pretend that I’m not home. Furthermore, since The Boy is off at college (Go SMU Mustangs!), the fun for me has almost been vacuumed out of Halloween.

Since Halloween 2010 is over the weekend, I’ve been giving some thought to a soiree. A few friends, a few cocktails, a few bites, and a few BWUAHAHAAHAHAS are the perfect potion for a swanky Halloween cocktail party! If you’re not sure what’s on your agenda, I’ve included tips for a budget-friendly partay!

Costumes? On such short notice, encourage everyone to simply wear black. Masks are optional. One of the most stressful elements of Halloween is trying to figure what you’re going to “be.” Make it easy for your friends. You might also have favors; they are plentiful in Dollar Tree-ish stores.

Your backdrop? Rent Carrie, Friday the Thirteenth, or any scream-inducing movie, pop it in, and put the TV on mute! Dim the lights, ignite a few candles, and pop in your iPod with a Halloween-inspired play list. I’ve included some suggested tunes below:

• “Ghostbusters,” Ray Parker, Jr.
• “Thriller,” Michael Jackson
• “The Monster Mash,” Boris Pickett
• "Jaws"theme
• "X-Files" theme
• "The Munsters" theme
• "The Adams Family theme
• “I Put A Spell On You,” Nina Simone
• “In the Midnight Hour,” Wilson Pickett
• "Twilight Zone" theme
• Also include various Halloween-esque sound bites.

Decor? If you’re inspired to carve a pumpkin or two into jack-o-lanterns, do so this weekend. As mentioned above, your lighting will be the saving grace, so pop a couple into the scarily-etched gourds. Not that ambitious? Well ... buy a few of those $1 plastic jack-o-lanterns and place them throughout your entertaining space. Fill them with treats! If you’re so inclined (and it’s in your budget), pick up festive cups and napkins.  My dear friend Eddie Ross whipped up a fiendish feather wreath for just a little cash. Here are his instructions.

Libations? Dependent on your audience, grab a case of beer and a few bottles of wine. It is critical that you whip up a signature drink! Try a Almond Joy or Milky Way Martini or Witches’ Brew.

Bites? Finally! Think tapas. An antipasti platter. Nuts. Popcorn. Skewers (veggie, shrimp, chicken satay, etc.). Reference The Minimalist’s small plate recommendations for ideas.


Entertainment? Should the natives grow restless, keep them entertained with: karaoke, Halloween MadLibs, or Halloween-inspired charades (using a stack of index cards write words related to Halloween, split in two teams and the guessing game begins).

Cheers to hoping you’ll do something fun on All Hallow’s Eve. All that’s missing from this concoction is you and a group of great friends!

What are YOUR plans this year?

Mums' The Word!

We awakened to a cool, crisp morning in Atlanta today.

Fall is, hands down, my favorite time of year.  Let's see...I love: fall fashions, comfort foods (hence these hips, of course) and all things harvest.  Mr TBS and I even married during the fall nearly 10 years ago and you should have seen all of the mums, pumpkins and candles at our wedding (trust me...it was tasteful).

My neighbor across the way has set out some beautiful plants on her decks and it reminded me that I need to grab some mums for ours (plus...I'm not one to be outdone, you know---at least that's what Mr TBS says).  Since we opt to live in the city, we do not have a traditional yard. Therefore, I try to make our 2 decks and patio "urban cozy".

So I think some mums are in order.  Maybe I'll swing by a few thrift stores to pursue some unique planters. Now all I have to pray is that I do not kill said mums with my brown thumb. Oh yeah, there's that. Ha!

Do you landscape during the fall? What are your favorite autumnal plants?

Just A Little Pop!

I ran into Tar-zhay last evening and, for the record Mr TBS, I only spent $14.

While I was waiting for my prescription to be filled, I came upon this rug that was so cute. It is only $20 and is a nice value if you're looking for a pop of texture in a small space. I thought of getting it for my office but I am reminded of the principle of scale that's often preached by my interior designer friends.

It'd look great with a punch of color or as an anchor in a black and white themed space.  Though it's only  3'x5', surely SOMEONE can use it. It has a canvas/jute feel that is quite substantial. It doesn't look cheap or cheesy at all. Trust me. You know I'd say so if it did.

What did you buy when you were in Tar-zhay last?

Awwww, Sugah, Sugah...Low Country Luxe Candles: A Great Gift Idea

If you're like me, you are likely still shopping for Christmas gifts. I'm not hasty in my pursuits...I always try to match a gift with the personality of its recipient; so I don't take the shopping lightly. I've seen lots of gift guides on-line and have even seen unique items in stores but few have made an impact on me like Low Country Luxe candles.

Disclaimer: I, The Broke Socialite, am a candle snob. There I said it. Yes. I am OK with it. From Jo Malone to Votivo, I've always appreciated a better candle; even if I had to wait to purchase them on eBay.

There's not enough space for me to write about the eco-friendly (and chic) line from Georgia artisan, Natalie Evans.

First of all, you must see the detail of the candle. The glass holders are substantial and very reminiscent of Cadillac-quality.  The candle itself is soy based and offers a clean burn (See? Didn't I tell you I know my candles?).  Next, the aroma envelopes the air much like a cashmere pashmina does your shoulders.

As a true Southern belle, I love the creativity that reeks all things country coast found in lovely Savannah and Charleston. Doesn't it make you think of sleepy moss trees and mansions?  Check out the background.

"Sugah" from the most recent additions (including "Belle" and "Beau"...how cute, right?) simply tickled my fancy.  What I think I love most is that $3.50 from the purchase of each candle goes to the March of Dimes. How, well, sweet. I know. I can't help it!

Consider gifting "Sugah" (or any of the other delightful candles in the line) and you'll surely warrant a kiss. (Yes. Pun sweetly intended.)

Low Country Luxe can be followed on Facebook and Twitter.

Photo courtesy: Low Country Luxe


Disclosure: I have a material connection because I received a gift or sample of a product for consideration in preparing to write this content. I am not expected to return this item or gift after my review period.

Non-Traditional Holiday Decor On A Budget

I saw this wonderful picture story in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution about holiday decor.  The designers challenged readers to decorate areas of the home that aren't traditionally explored. I also love how the dress form has been brought into the holiday decor.

Have you decorated your home?

Any money saving tips to share?

Photo credit: The Atlanta-Journal Constitution

The Holidays and Family Traditions: A Contest From The Broke Socialite

(above - The Broke Socialite's Family Christmas Tree, Shaka Zulu)

*singing* "It's the most wonderful tiiiiiiiimmmmeeee of the yeeaaaarrrrr..."

OK. I won't burden everyone with my sopralto tendencies but the holiday season just makes me so giddy. I know...I'm a big sucka.  You probably will not be surprised to know that I absolutely adore my family.  Mama and Daddy TBS each have a couple of siblings and everyone is very close.  Though I don't live in the town where I grew up any longer, I do try to get there as much as I can. Now that Mama TBS is on the mend (her stage IV breast cancer is in remission...yeaaaaaahhhhhhhh!!!), our lives are beginning to normalize again.

One of the things that I used to LOVE growing up was our 'holiday rounds'. My Aunt Angie and her family lived next door and my Aunt Matt lived just down the path (I'll bet you didn't know that TBS is a "country mouse" did you?).  We'd start the morning by everyone gathering at our house while my mom cooked breakfast.  We'd dish out the gifts from under our tree and share (or not...especially if it was an Easy Bake Oven) our toys with our cousins.  Sister TBS and I were most always fortunate enough to find that Santa had brought everything on our lists.  Then we'd go to Aunt Angie's to see my cousins toys and end the morning with a stop at Aunt Matt's. Aunt Matt is now 80 years old (and very spry, might I add) and was a remarkable seamstress.  Each year was filled with anticipation toward what she made us.  One of my favorite Christmases was when she presented us all (and we were most all married) with homemade quilts that matched our personalities. I'd just gotten married the month before, so mine was a wedding ring quilt. I'm tearing up as I think about it. What a strong influence she has been in my life!

After we got home from 'rounds, we'd slip into a new holiday outfit and head to "town"...that's where Daddy TBS's family lived. My Aunt Peggy, who was (and is) a fashion plate would come from Atlanta with huge bags of gifts in tow and Uncle Greg (who lived next door to my grandparents) would always come in pretending to be Santa (and he is STILL as funny).  We'd exchange gifts with my cousins before settling in to greet the various and sundry family members who would stop by for dinner.

The folks at Fair Winds Trading, as a part of their Path To Peace initiative, have invited us to share our favorite family holiday stories.  If you share your favorite holiday tradition in a comment below, you will be entered to win a Rwandan basket that will hopefully add to your family's traditions. The contest will run through December 14th, 2009 at 11:59 pm and you may only enter once.

Here's the story behind the Path To Peace baskets from Rwanda. It's truly remarkable! The "bowl" baskets symbolize different things based on the patterns like patience, bountiful harvest, and good fortune.

What's your favorite holiday tradition?

Disclosure: I have a material connection because I received a gift or sample of a product for consideration in preparing to write this content. I am not expected to return this item or gift after my review period.

TBS's Weekend Thrift Store Find: Part One

Somehow or another, I ended up in the Salvation Army Thrift Store on Saturday Morning. Though I was on my way to brunch, its flashing light was calling me (much like the "Hot Donughts" sign at Krispy Kreme).  I've since found out that this particular SA location is notorious for having a great furniture selection.  I got a fab etagere there last year, so I should have remembered.  I'd only made a semi circle in the entrance when I came across the diamond-in-the rough below.  Marked $70, it had been on the floor greater than 40 days (and waiting for me) which entitled me to a 50 percent discount.  Can you believe it? I couldn't.  I thought I would hyperventilate.  Yes...it's banana yellow.  Yes...it'll take a little elbow grease to turn it into the perfect piece.  I'm OK with that. 

I'm thinking that I should put it in my home office (since so many big deals are being brokered in there these days).  I've decided on this little sofa from Nate Berkus (and, y'all, don't discount HSN!)

Won't it be lovely painted an orange-ish red...maybe blood orange? I am OBSESSED with the blood orange/Tiffany blue combo these days.  I'm currently hunting the perfect pink/white fabric for drapes as I continue to outfit the room from which I shall build my empire! *rubbing hands together*

Do you shop at thrift stores?  Which ones in your area do you recommend?

TBS Needs Your Help: Which Pillows?!

Good morning, Dah-lings!

I hope you're doing well today. About a year ago, I found the fabulous chairs pictured above and declared that I couldn't leave without them. Aren't they lovely? They were $350 total and I paid less than $150. A TBS deal, right? Anywho...I've wiggled, waffled and wavered about what I should do with the chairs? Paint them? Put them in another room? Well, I'm still conflicted.

Until I decide their fate, I thought it might be cool to punch them up with some pillows. Sometimes us TBS' have to make-do with what we have until the budget loosens up, right?! Has TBS mentioned that The Boy is leaving for college in less than a year? Right. So lots of stuff is being re-purposed.

Here I have two options and I'm interested to know which you like:

1. Blue Dwell from Target - $25 each

2. Orange designer's pillow. I purchased these at a designer's tag sale. Originally $200 each, I paid $50 each.

Your assistance is greatly appreciated! Helllllllllllllppppppppppppppppppppppp!!!!!!!

TBS LOVES This Blog: The Bright Life

She had me at her header.

I'm always (OK, well sometimes...when I'm not overwhelmed by life) looking for fab new blogs to read. While I was on vacation last week, I was reading the blogs of some of my dear "Followers" and was so delighted when I swung by Ms Bright's "place".

A designer, she has the most charming virtual disposition and her posts are borderline enchanting. Whether she is highlighting Charleston mansions from a recent vacation or recovering a footstool (seemingly a la TBS-style...budget chic), I KNOW you'll enjoy her voice.

Hopefully, we'll see her engage more here at TBS. She's a gem. Get over there.

Love you, Ms Bright!!!

Have you taken a stab at a new blog lately? Won't you share?

Photo credit: Ms Bright

TBS TV: Deck Decor...An Outdoor Rug For A (Smart) Bargain

Here's the link to the rug on SmartBargains.com!

I purchased the 3.5' x 5.6' rug...while it looks small in the video (and I'm STILL trying to figure how to get the best angle with this Flip camera); the scale actually works nicely and doesn't spill over to the grilling area.

I was also able to take advantage of a 15 percent discount as a First Time Buyer...yayyyy, for being a newbie for a change. You can find your own discount via Google by searching for 'Smart Bargains discount codes'.

I am soooo excited to build from the rug that I can hardly stand it!

Any one else score any great deals recently or, most immediately, over the weekend?

Shuffling The Deck! Shopping For Outdoor Furniture On A Budget

Mr TBS and I have decided to fancy up our urban deck after a couple of years of being in our home. There is no particular reason that we've been here for a while and have not fashioned the deck...we just hadn't gotten around to it. After seeing photos of a friend's deck, Mr TBS became inspired and we decided to take the plunge. Because we do live intown and have limited space, it only made sense that we'd maximize our square footage and create living space outside; especially since the weather has been so beautiful lately.

We immediately looked on-line for ideas (from AuthenTeak to Wal-Mart) and decided on a budget. After determining the deck's measurements (and the exisiting grill's space), we finalized our shopping list: a love seat, club chair and coffee table. Because we're plus-sized people, our final selection also needed to be well-constructed and the seating deep.

Ever so anxious, I stopped by Horizon Home Collection (they are definintely nice folk but their inventory is too rich for my blood) in Atlanta because I saw their signs for a tent sale on my way home from work. Tent sale? They must be ready to wheel-n-deal, I thought. Well, an estimate for $1700 later, I quickly strolled away and wondered if these folk knew about the state of our economy. Yeah. No. I posted about that experience on Facebook and the fabulous Roslyn quickly shot back a recommendation that I go to Tar-zhay. Boy, I'm so glad I listened!

I found exactly what I was looking for at Tar-zhay! My selection is well within my budget and I still have money to buy an outdoor rug, some cool lights for the patio and greenery! I have included a picture of the set that we chose but will definitely share the finished product within the next few days or so. I've also found a cool soup-starter link which gives tips on creating a cozy outdoor space.

Do you have outdoor living space? Were you on a budget when designing it? Any tips/resources to share?

Photo credit: Target

From Dear Reader, Babs: Summer(-ish) Bedding On A Budget

Dear TBS,

Now that summer as officially arrived (in the middle of April *eyeroll*) I find myself suffering at night when I am trying to get my required beauty sleep. I appreciate the weight and warmth of my comforter, but I find myself waking up sweating in the middle of the night. I don't want to run my air conditioner all night long just so I can stay burrowed under the covers. I would like to find an affordable light-weight bedding solution for the warm months ahead.

Do you have any suggestions?

XOXOXO
Babs

My dearest Babs,

Oh how I feel your pain! We musn't allow ANYTHING to interfere with our beauty rest. TBS recommends a lightweight down alternative comforter slipped in a fabulous duvet or comforter cover. It's a great choice if you keep your bedroom at 70 degrees or so.

Down alternative is wonderful because it should not affect any allergies that you may have.

A REAL down comforter runs from $300-600 but you can certainly find the alternative version for less than $100. Macy's signature Charter Club line has a great one (check the reviews) but you should couple your purchase with a 20% off coupon. Since Mother's Day is just around the bend, you should expect one in your local newspaper or an online coupon code soon.

Not only will this comforter be wonderful this summer but it'll keep you warm in the dead of winter. Since you're making a slight investment, I think a duvet/comforter cover will allow you to freshen your look each seasonally AND control your temperature. Overstock.com has a sweet variety of budget-friendly covers which start at about $50 and FREE SHIPPING! Target also has a fab trove of options.

Good luck with your shopping and please let me know how it turns out!

Dear Darling Readers, do you have the same quandary as Babs? How do you handle it?

Photo credit: M. Carter

Eddie's Done It Again: Inspiration On A Budget!

Are you swooning yet? If I know y'all, you are! Take a pass at Eddie Ross' contribution to the New Orleans Home and Garden Show. I nearly fainted when I saw it.

Do you know what I love most about this guy? He gives props to those of us with REAL pocketbooks (read: on a budget). He balances antiques with practical pieces that can be copped from Wal-mar-TAY and Lowe's. I am still fuming that I missed his trip to Scott's when he was in Atlanta earlier this year.

Anywho...these Chippendale chairs at $125....I'm subject to drive to New Orleans to bring them home. In my mind, they rightfully belong to me.

Enjoy the pics and, if you don't already, subscribe to Eddie's blog.

Speaking of home shows, do you frequent them in your area for ideas? When was the last time you attended one and where?

Photo courtesy: eddieross.com

Love Home Decor? Love Eddie Ross?

Well...get a paper bag! Eddie Ross has opened an Etsy store featuring some of his darling flea market finds...I am, literally, about to hyperventilate.

These treasures make me feel like I'm in my grandmothers' china cabinets.

Just lovely!

Do you do flea markets?

Photo credit: eddieross.com

R.I.P. Domino Magazine!

It's over.

I've already dressed myself in black and put on my mourning veil.

I am so. very. sad.

How could they?

This was the most awesome mag ever.

Did you ever read Domino?

The Best Little Soy Candles Ev-ER!

Last Saturday, I met my dear friend, Tamara, for $1 sushi at RuSan's in Atlanta. After we'd had our fill, we strolled over to Stanton Home Furnishings so that I might salivate over the wonderful chandeliers, unique and rustic furniture and candles.

It may not be new to you, but I learned about a line dubbed Kobo that is absolutely euphoric. What did I love?? Oh, just how fresh and clean the fragrances were. My favorites were d'anjou lychee and manchurian dragonfruit. My only hang up is the pricepoint: $32.

Not to be deterred, I searched eBay and found several for at least $10 less. Yay!

Put this one in your file. It'll make a great gift!

This is a community service post brought to you by The Broke Socialite;-)

Dear Santa (or Mr TBS...Whomever Reads This Post First),

Dear Santa (or Mr TBS...Whomever Reads This Post First),

Hello there!

As you well know, I've really been a good girl this year. I've been careful to mind my pennies, have kept our home nicely presentable, and haven't been that much of a nag. I, therefore, would like to add one of these chairs to my Christmas wish list. Not enough lead time, you say? Well, I'm so very understanding that I'll even take a diamond-in-the-rough version of either of these Hollywood Regency-style chairs. Aren't I gracious? Hey, what I can I say? Hopefully, my willingness to invest a bit of sweat equity makes this request more appealing.

I know, I know, they are sold out at Pieces Atlanta and $600-800 seems a bit steep but I promise you, if you can find the framework, I'll turn it into a masterpiece.

Cookies and milk (ok, ok...a toddy) can be found on the virtual table.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.

Any last minute items on your Holiday Wish List?

Photo courtesy: Pieces Atlanta

Shopping My Closet - The "While-I'm-At-Home-On-Holiday" Makeover Edition

Happy Sunday again!

For the next two weeks, I am officially on holiday. Can't you hear the delight in my voice? I am soooooo thrilled. One of things that I plan to do is purge our home of clothing that we no longer wear and home decor that we no longer use.

Some of the items will make it over to Goodwill or Salvation Army; other things, I think, I will FINALLY get around to hanging/situating in our home.

The sweetness: I will not spend a dime (and I'll stay in Mr TBS's good financial graces)!

It's so much fun to rediscover items that originally caught my eye when we first moved into our home nearly two years ago. Though I didn't quite have a fit for them upon purchase, I just knew my finds would eventually ease themselves into the character of our home. Awwwwwwwwwww.....

Here they are:

A set of red iron sconces purchased for $15 on eBay (I may paint them)

A sea life print purchased for $20 from Ballard Backroom (It will likely end up in the powder room)

A lamp-style sconce purchased for $5 at a designer's liquidation sale (the jury is still out on this piece)

Do you ever purchase anything because it has a certain je na sais quoi yet you don't know how you'll use it?

TBS Coup-of-the-Day: $140 Prints for $5 (And Some Change)

I started this day with the best intentions; unfortunately, it took a weird twist before I could infuse the pep in my step. Nevertheless, I felt a lot better after speaking with Mr TBS and a couple of friends.

But can I tell you what made me feel better? I happened upon 2 nice prints (they're huge: 24" square) at Ballard's Backroom that I thought would look nice with the $50 buffet/sideboard and $50-ish chic antler lamps. I was looking for a pop of color to try in the sea of chocolate wood so I thought I'd try the lovely eye-candy...after all if I didn't like it, it's only $5 (and some change), right?




Originally $69 each, they had been marked down to $10.49 each MINUS a 75% discount from the lowest price. Yes...a great big $2.62 each! Woo hoo. Metallic paisley design, chocolate, eggplant, orange and white rest on a bed of deep teal. Dare I say they look like a million bucks?


What do you think? I LOVE deals like this!



Any good deals for you today?