This post is sponsored by Ply Gem. All opinions are our own. 9 things to consider before choosing a vinyl fence — plus a straightforward guide to installing one yourself for a safe, low-maintenance yard. Our vinyl fence is up and Phase 2 of the backyard is officially complete! After years of planning, I can … Read more

Proven methods to make decluttering rooms easier and how to declutter your home quickly while still having fun. My family can tell the moment I’ve had enough of the mess — I grab a trash bag and turn into a focused decluttering tornado. There’s something deeply freeing about clearing a drawer or closet that’s been … Read more

Everything you need to know to style your entry table like a professional decorator and create a welcoming foyer. After an accidental foyer and stairway redo last year and the lucky Facebook Marketplace find of our entry table, this is the first time I’ve taken the time to style a “normal” entryway in this space. … Read more

There’s nothing more frustrating when refinishing furniture than dealing with the sticky, gummy residue left after using a chemical stripper on wood. After my latest project, I finally found a reliable way to get past that mess and finish the job faster. A while back Robert and I stripped paint from our fireplace mantle and … Read more

We meant to share more backyard progress today, but the weekend had other plans: a small project went sideways and we spent time caring for a sick child. It slowed us down, but it also gave me extra time to think through the plan for our next outdoor build — a pool cabana. We recently … Read more

30 common thrift store finds that can be turned into stylish home decor with just a few simple changes. After more than a decade of hunting thrift stores for furniture and home accents, I’ve learned which inexpensive staples have the most potential. What other people toss can become unique, affordable decor with a little creativity. … Read more

3 Techniques for DIY Painted Pumpkins: Spray Paint, Metallics, and Dirt for Concrete, Antique Brass, and Black Earthenware Finishes I broke my usual fall-decorating rule for this one—because when you can transform inexpensive faux pumpkins with supplies you already have, why not get a little creative? I picked up three faux pumpkins at Target and … Read more

This thrift store kitchen scale was more than just worn—it was downright sad. Not the charming, vintage kind of worn; I mean the kind that begged for a makeover. I’d been hunting for an affordable vintage kitchen scale for a while, so when I spotted this one for $5 I grabbed it. With a little … Read more

A room design mood board plan for a powder room + a breakdown of California Casual style. We’re about to launch something I’ve wanted to do since I started this blog: decorating and DIY makeovers for friends and neighbors. Robert and I have been so fortunate to meet many kind people in our community, and … Read more

Tutorial: Use lattice strips as an easy, budget-friendly way to create a DIY batten wall that adds vintage character to plain walls. Lattice strips are the unsung heroes of this DIY batten wall. They’re affordable, lightweight, and simple to work with—perfect for adding classic molding detail without the expense of traditional trim. We used them … Read more