Styling the Bar ~ It's All in the Details

Entertaining - we all do it.  Whether we entertain a large gathering, an intimate group of close friends, a romantic one-on-one or a quiet evening of relaxation alone, a favourite beverage or cocktail can add that special touch to any occasion.

A well styled, and well stocked, bar cart is just the thing you need to be ready for the moments as they arise.

Be inspired...

Stylish details & eclectic backdrop ~ Source

For the wine lover. Source

We love the double-duty use for this table ~ spirits stashed in a stylish basket for ease of use!

Source

Champagne only? Yes please!! Source

Industrial Works! Source

Remember important details like glassware, decanters and ice buckets.  Source

From fresh lemonade to white wine spritzers, you can set up in the great outdoors too!

Source

Easily shut the doors on this built-in bar.  Source

This can be a coffee or mimosa bar - early mornings will never be the same!

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We love the simple style of the DIY cart. Source

Styling with Books and Shelves

It seems we get a lot more reading done during the colder months.  Frigid temperatures keep us indoors and a good book in front of the fire is a great way to spend an evening.  Having a stylish bookshelf is not terribly hard if you have the right inspiration.  Here are some of our favourite looks.

Books work anywhere, even the dining room, 

which is handy in case the dinner conversation starts thinning

brabournefarm.blogspot.ca

In love with this library wall mixing natural elements in a contemporary space

contemporist.com

Walls of books work as a backdrop in this elegant office space 

emilyaclark.blogspot.com

How better to cozy up high ceilings than by filling the upper wall with books and shelves

paulraeside.com

A white office space, found on the crystalgentilello.com blog, is given character and warmth with the injection of a small library of books and framed art above the desk.

A mix of moody colours, eclectic art and comfortable furnishings make this library wall, 

found in the pages of House Beautiful, inviting.

This library, the perfect spot to read and daydream, makes smart use of a hallway nook houseandhome.com

 Bookcases hugging a sofa is a clever way to add style & storage to a living space

s7.thisnext.com

What is a library or a bookshelf without books? Classics add character while uniformity can happen when books are covered with pretty paper, vintage maps of velvet as shown here.

25.media.tumblr.com & thealternativebride.blogspot.com

Styling bookshelves brings in favourite pieces, memorabilia and treasured art or photos

apieceoftoastblog.com ~ madebygirl.blogspot.com ~ bhg.com

Finding Inspiration in Radiant Orchid

Some colors are just easier to work with.  Last year Pantone introduced emerald green, loved it! Such a rich color that looked great in so many different ways; interiors, patio decor, clothing, hand bags ~ you name it, the color worked. And that's how it goes every year, Pantone has this knack for introducing a color that isn't new but we inject it into our lives as though seeing it for the very first time.

This year is no exception.  Pantone is helping us re-discover orchid and I have to admit we're excited. How easy it will be use orchid in the every day.  From subtle overlays of the color to bold, sweeping statements I have a hunch radiant orchid will find its way in to every wardrobe, interior and accessory.

While perusing the web we came across some great inspirations for introducing the beautiful color to you, we hope you're inspired!

How will you use Pantone's Radiant Orchid?

Sources:
Kitchen Collage: decorenvy.co.uk
Collage 1: manicure: BH Cosmetics, Ring: Tiffany & Co. amethyst ring, Orchid Sweater: Cupcakes & Cashmere
Interior Inspiration: Olioboard
Interior Collage: Backlit Amethyst, Icon Stone & Tile ~ Paint Collage: http://tempodadelicadeza.com.br/ ~ Lilac Chairs: simplifiedbee.com