Trends for Spring 2022

Source: Pexels.com

As we move out of winter, I always enjoy looking at the trends for spring, and brainstorming how to incorporate them into everyday looks. As I peruse the latest design publications and websites, I always find myself inspired, and ready to bring in some new themes or ideas into the work that I do. Here are some of my favorite new spring-inspired looks:

-Colorful and bright dishes and tableware: I noticed this on CocoCozy, and I loved the bright pops of color. Although I veer towards more European style neutrals in most of my design work, I love when a client wants a bit of color. I was thinking about ways you could bring in some little bits of color, and I love the idea of making your kid’s tableware or outdoor dishes the brighter pieces. They are less expensive than daily tableware, and you can test out the trend before investing in high-end pieces. I love these simple kid’s plates from West Elm, to start with. 

-Darker kitchens: I don’t think that the classic white kitchen will ever go out of style, but I’m noticing quite a bit of trends that favor darker colors like forest green, black, and charcoal grey, with tons of texture like granite, leather, and iron accents. Although the darker cabinets or accent walls have been around for a few years, the textures are what primarily sets apart the newer trends. This article from Southern Living talks a bit about the darker trends, and we love it.

-Sustainable decor brands: Many sustainable brands are on the rise, and we love the ethics and ideals behind choosing products and brands that are better for the environment and the workers who make the products. So, who makes a products sustainable? Usually, they are items made by companies who value their workers (with living wages, and ethical working conditions); with some being fair trade certified.  Additionally, these companies are usually using non-toxic, green, or recycled materials. One of our favorites is Shades of Green (which is perfect if you’re just starting out with learning about sustainable brands), and their beeswax candles are amazing! 

What’s your favorite trend for springtime? I always love to hear about what my clients are loving and feeling inspired by!

Spring Favorites

“If you’ve never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom.” — Audra Foveo

The glimpses of Spring have arrived, and I couldn’t be happier to see blue skies, and all those pretty blossoms everywhere! Here on our little farm, we are all thrilled to be outside more, and leaving behind the cooped up winter doldrums. I have been diving headfirst into honing our gardens…one of my favorite parts of Spring. Here are a few of my recent favorites as we head into this beautiful season:

Source: PhotoMix via Pexels.com

-Pretty gardening items: New gardening themed items are such a practical gift or decor idea. I especially love when things are pretty and they serve a purpose. This adorable indoor watering can is the best example; you can use it for herbs or succulents, and it looks beautiful at the same time. And these pretty gloves from Anthro are just $14 and will freshen up even a job like pulling weeds!

-White greenhouse from Little Cottage Company: This is certainly an investment item, but if you love to garden and need a dedicated space to plant, grow, and enjoy the greenery, a true greenhouse is an excellent option. It will look stunning in your yard or on your property, and will provide years of lasting enjoyment! The Colonial Gable greenhouse is just so aesthetically perfect, and would accent any outdoor space. 

-Plants and Roses: The David Austin roses are some of the prettiest and most gorgeous varieties especially the Albrighton Rambler. The shade is the palest pink, and I wish I could grow a few acres of them so I can fill my whole house up! :) I also have been growing some herbs like Rosemary and Sage, which are not only practical for cooking, but also perfect as a garnish. There’s no better way to set a pretty table than adding fresh herbs to everyone’s plates (and it smells heavenly!). Lastly, if you’re looking for a festive treat to serve your guests in this weather, try this recipe from Southern Bite:

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup firmly packed basil leaves

• 6 cups water divided

• 1 1/2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice 6 to 8 lemons

Instructions

• In a medium sauce pan, muddle the sugar and basil together with a wooden spoon. Add 2 cups of water and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until all of the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and allow the basil to steep in the syrup until cool. Once cool strain the simple syrup into a pitcher. Add 4 cups of water and the lemon juice. Stir well. Serve over ice with a garnish of basil and lemon.

Fresh and New for Easter! Springtime Tablescape

Here at our family’s little farm, it feels like Easter year-round! I love it, because Easter and springtime always make me think of changes, and of new-ness. I love that the flowers are all beginning to bud, and the grass gets tall enough to hide those sweet little pastel eggs that the chickens are just beginning to lay. I find that my springtime inspiration creeps into my decor and purchases, as well. As you well know, a beautifully set table is something I am passionate about. It doesn’t have to be complex, but it makes me feel accomplished and inspired. I wanted to break down how I set a welcoming springtime table today!

Source: Rooms for Rent via Pinterest

-Start with a base layer:  Whether you have a butcher block style table, or one that you enjoy laying down a tablecloth on, start with a clean, uncluttered table. Clear everything off of it, and polish it if necessary. Don’t forget to wipe off any furniture polish with a clean cloth and buff a a wooden table down so your guests don’t get a sleeve of oily polish! If you’re using a tablecloth, always opt for a pretty neutral (taupe, white, cream). 

-Add some height: I like the idea of varied heights in order to draw the eye around the table. Of course, try not to add too many items, because you’ll need room for people to pass food around or place large dishes on the table for serving. If you have too many large centerpieces, it can feel cluttered and not relaxing. Some ideas for taller pieces would be wooden candleholders, glass cloches, or potted plants on tiered stands.

-It’s time for the dishes! I recommend that everyone own one set of quality, neutral dishes. Whether you choose white, taupe, or another simple tone, pretty dishes will be something you use for years and years to come. If they’re well-made, they may stay around for generations to enjoy, so make sure you buy plenty of place settings as your family grows. Decide what’s needed based on your meal and add soup bowls or salad plates accordingly. I also recommend some plain drinking glasses or Champagne flutes, depending on your audience!

-Add your personal touch: I love fresh greenery on a lovely brunch tablescape, and there are many ways to incorporate it into your place settings. Consider hand-calligraphies place-cards, little sprigs of rosemary or other fresh herbs, or mini greenery wreaths at each place setting. Little strips of burlap can be maneuvered into silverware rings for a rustic and classic farmhouse look, and you can also tuck little sprigs of greenery into those. 

Now, your table is ready for your guests! Happy Easter!