'Not Falling For It'

Okay, I hate to admit that I’m in fall denial. Even as I sit here, shivering from lack of heat in this Syracuse apartment, I am staring at my tan leather boots with mild disdain.

Sure, I managed to pack most of my summer clothes away weeks ago. But the black suede sandals came along for the four-hour ride to visit friends in upstate New York, with the promise of warmer times ahead.

Fat chance. I imagine that even when I do return to New York City at the end of this week, it will be to start shopping for chunky knits, luxe wool coats and winter accessories.

For some reason, the idea is hard to swallow. I think I still might need some cheering up.

Perhaps a few fall-friendly additions to my home décor will do the trick:

1. The seasonal wreath and autumnal plants in golds, reds, browns and oranges will set the fall tone if placed at the door and to the entrance of the home. Making a first impression with guests, the fall foliage is another way to draw nature indoors – since more time will be spent hibernating.

2. Accessories like paintings, clocks, plates and candles are subtle, but still have the capability of transforming a fireplace or counter.

3. With the start of the holidays approaching in less than two months (can you imagine!), the focal point of any home will likely be with friends and family in the dining room. Changing everything from the tablecloths and napkin rings to the fruit on the table signals the start of much hearty, holiday eating and memories with those that matter the most.

4. Just like any change in season triggers our sense of sight, so it must awaken my sense of smell. With the plants already in place, potpourri is the best way to get the house far from ‘ocean mist’ to ‘autumn melody’ in no time flat. I like to place potpourri in the expected places (the bathroom, foyer and living room), but I think I will try some unexpected places (the closet and drawers).

It doesn’t take much for fall to win me over.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of interiordec.about.com; www.bhg.com; decoratorshome.blogspot.com

'Splish, Splash'

"Splish, Splash, I was taking a bath..."

Come to think of it, when was the last time you redid your bathroom? Not recently, I bet.

What are you going to do if you unexpectedly have a bunch of guests wanting to a’splishin’ and a’splashin,’ reelin’ with the feelin,’ movin’ and a groovin’ in your bathroom? Will they take the party somewhere else if they see your dated bath towels and amenities?

A tight budget is no reason to keep you down. The bathroom is the one room in the house where less is always more.

1. First, stock up on mini soaps, hairbrushes, towels, robes, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Think ‘hotel,’ but with the warmth and comfort your home can bring. Future guests will appreciate the gesture and not feel like they’re imposing should they forget to bring bath essentials.

2. While painting a bathroom a different shade sets the tone, you might not have enough time for a quick paint and dry. Picking a small handmade tile for your wall and inserting it with the rest is the fastest way change the face of your bathroom.

3. Change your vanities and shelving units. Protect your belongings from getting damp or wet in a new vanity – it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. When I remodeled my bathroom a few years ago, I replaced everything but the tub and bathroom wall tiles above it. But even with the new flooring and paint job, the biggest difference came from the shelving unit above my toilet and drawers next to the sink.

4. Curtains. From American country, to retro, or beach. Whatever your style or color preference, make sure your set of new curtains can withstand moisture and staining. The curtains should be easy to remove and clean, when necessary.

5. When it comes to applying makeup or shaving, having adequate lighting is key. You’re also going to need a good mirror. After leaning over my sink to apply my makeup in front of the mirror, I decided to place a smaller magnifying mirror next to the sink. Now, no more leaning over the sink and ruining my blouse.

6. The bathroom can be a place for rest and relaxation. Let the candles
take care of the romantic lighting. Use scented oils or incense for aromatherapy and get that bubble bath going!

Splish, splash, now you have a new bath!

-S. Gonzalez


*Photos courtesy of everythingturquoise.com/

'Dining Alfresco'

Ahhhh. The sound of the words ‘Memorial Day Weekend’ calls to mind mojitos, barbecue and lounging with friends on the deck. Being the unofficial start of summer, it would not be complete without an outdoor celebration. While dining tables and ornate ceramic plates now seem are out of place, festive silverware and canopies are essential. And let’s be honest, no one wants to scramble for the last folding chair or the best spot around the only citronella candle.



We’ve all been there.

For this Memorial Day weekend, I compiled a list of must-have items for the ideal alfresco dining party. Gemstone-colored glassware, decorative serving trays and funky glass stirrers take the blandest of garden parties to the grandest.


Set the Mood

The romantic sweep of light, but bustling mosquito netting has been at the top of my list since I first saw one on my uncle’s newly renovated patio deck a few summers back. His was a more modern concoction – a canopied tent with netting running along the entire perimeter. For mosquito-ridden nights, the tent could be sealed thanks to zippers running along one of the sides.

The canopy might be too big an option for those inner-city dwellers lucky enough to have the outdoor space. No matter. A 40’x 10’cotton mosquito net (available for $165) hangs perfectly from an outpost or tree branch.



Stir-Crazy

Are you a master at making mixed drinks? I know that I’m not. But I do know that my boyfriend loves his gin and tonics. Added to my list is a set of candy-colored glass stirrers. Even the most classic drink could use a playful makeover.

The kids will love the swirling straws in all the blue, pink, yellow, green color options. Hey, whatever keeps them entertained, occupied and less envious of the stir-crazy adults.

You Got Served

Part of the allure of outdoor get-togethers is that hefty dishwashing at the end is over (what I like to call post-partum cleanup). Paper plates and Tupperware are low maintenance and recyclable/reusable. But you can’t serve the best mojitos on paper plates or Tupperware.

A one-of-a-kind serving tray with a splash of color invites guests to drink and be merry. Then set it on the table for the duration of the party, using it at the end to clear trays away.


The List Goes On

The rest of my list includes some finishing touches to not only make my guests feel the most comfortable, but to also set the mood as the party heads into the wee hours:

- Candle holder set on a wooden tray as the centerpiece for $22.99 (above left)
- Bar table with stools for $200
- Comfy pillows for $19.99
- Tiki torches at $14.99

This Memorial Day, I'm kicking off the summer in style. How about you?

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of Mosquitocurtains.com, All Products.com and f Decor Innovation.com