The Store is Officially Open!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0cailZmb8iK5unDIVDA2i3r_tow3p4V3T_k6rIeNRdxBQKiIS7j6bUsjpLaJNuxAfXvcRhMnsJVp5HnDwSN0I2Hcn9xuil7rkQ2WYGkkBgQhizoY9_YdzzC48HH-9C5aHTQQ3Q4tE9A/s1600/STORE+FRONT.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0cailZmb8iK5unDIVDA2i3r_tow3p4V3T_k6rIeNRdxBQKiIS7j6bUsjpLaJNuxAfXvcRhMnsJVp5HnDwSN0I2Hcn9xuil7rkQ2WYGkkBgQhizoY9_YdzzC48HH-9C5aHTQQ3Q4tE9A/s640/STORE+FRONT.png" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaleWCeT9aYrS9cxZkHZGMzeBphH9_GrPJvMtj0CIq-XsKEbRrcM2zriwjgPDrq5pe9n_f6MRokg1V8TkoWbZF0RJBp9zHLAKesAhYrqH7cSAcfuuitKH5-KX7ZNNf_vEXKJlpQuEbdE/s1600/IMG_0474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaleWCeT9aYrS9cxZkHZGMzeBphH9_GrPJvMtj0CIq-XsKEbRrcM2zriwjgPDrq5pe9n_f6MRokg1V8TkoWbZF0RJBp9zHLAKesAhYrqH7cSAcfuuitKH5-KX7ZNNf_vEXKJlpQuEbdE/s400/IMG_0474.JPG" width="286" /></a> It is official... <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/">the store</a> is finally open for business!<br /><br />As I announced a couple of weeks ago, I've been working on compiling a collection of "entertaining essentials" that I've loved over the years.  So many times you have asked me, "Where do you get those kraft boxes for cupcakes?" or "How can I get those labels custom printed?"  Here is my answer.<br /><br />You can find a link to the store above in my navigation bar, or on the right hand side where is says "Shop my Favorite Entertaining Essentials" or click here : <br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F08%2Fthe-store-is-officially-open.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-q5Jeb9CTqXk%2FUgVAdtzPygI%2FAAAAAAAATO4%2F2FzPGQiydPM%2Fs1600%2Fmarket-pin.png&description=The%20Everday%20Occasions%20Store%20is%20officially%20open%21%20%20Shop%20my%20favorite%20entertaining%20essentials%20-%20candles%2C%20linens%2C%20labels%2C%20packaging%20and%20gifts%21"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/">Everyday Occasions - The Store</a><br /><br />Why a store?  So much of what we do as home entertainers is about presentation and style.  In my store, I have put together all of the things that I rely on when I'm putting together a party - linens, candles, labels, packaging and baking supplies.  My selections are classic and simple that will let your own style show through.  Another area of focus for the store is gifts - everything from classic hostess gifts to elaborate collections for the Bride-To-Be.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1d9_yZlFFTIQ4oCnqSqj23-M51c32WsBRMbw49xaASlkJ3hjM_JXEiQR7NnnwpoBA_X50uAyXL9VAxajt24i5MUkyDJcR50eqLDfrQ-ppmxgptHD7lOrV7kXTfLj14Zajq8E_GsHQug0/s1600/swatches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1d9_yZlFFTIQ4oCnqSqj23-M51c32WsBRMbw49xaASlkJ3hjM_JXEiQR7NnnwpoBA_X50uAyXL9VAxajt24i5MUkyDJcR50eqLDfrQ-ppmxgptHD7lOrV7kXTfLj14Zajq8E_GsHQug0/s640/swatches.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />My favorite part of the store is the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/">Color Collection</a>.  As I posted a couple of weeks ago, I designed a large selection of color swatches that can be applied to many of my products like monogrammed linens, custom printed labels and candles.  The names of the colors have special meanings to me - like Bliss Blue is from my first company, and Edgartown Sand from the time we spent in Martha's Vineyard.   You can shop specifically by color... for example, if you want to see everything that is available in "Seaside" you can <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/seaside">click the "Seaside" button</a>.<br /><br />Click here to see the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/">Color Collection</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLbTBa80KeWMNyyJjkY6SAtF5hyf2oVKZTib8FED1OD2zn1U_0E6zWImyiMplziDA4ESLTjTgGUMvuy8oJc8zo6bEKBNpZnlAvAxAkcxXxDkX3ExJrSGLE-M95A14i7VjbswpEDxT5mps/s1600/IMG_0226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLbTBa80KeWMNyyJjkY6SAtF5hyf2oVKZTib8FED1OD2zn1U_0E6zWImyiMplziDA4ESLTjTgGUMvuy8oJc8zo6bEKBNpZnlAvAxAkcxXxDkX3ExJrSGLE-M95A14i7VjbswpEDxT5mps/s640/IMG_0226.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><br />Here are the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/seaside/products/celebration-candles-6">"Celebration Candles"</a> in <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/seaside">"Seaside"</a> - aren't they the most perfect color?  Fun and festive, but subtle and sophisticated.  They come in 8 colors - all gorgeous. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLJ1TnUv5-n2MwBbANWszYdMFz46mt3GpZcEYRd5BZyvOsMK2N-ALYEdwrzf8O0oEzaa929f64Z1ikOMizyMLcLEMgTh7JWzsuToiCM6d-7UwzGSXku5MbonJNQ43hgJMBMQi9WvRhII/s1600/IMG_0301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLJ1TnUv5-n2MwBbANWszYdMFz46mt3GpZcEYRd5BZyvOsMK2N-ALYEdwrzf8O0oEzaa929f64Z1ikOMizyMLcLEMgTh7JWzsuToiCM6d-7UwzGSXku5MbonJNQ43hgJMBMQi9WvRhII/s640/IMG_0301.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><br />All of my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles">candles</a> are made by Creative Candles - a 50-year-old factory that is only 1 mile from my house.  I was first introduced to them by years of flipping through the pages of Martha Stewart Living.  They are one of Martha's "secret sources" and have been used in her magazines for years... and on Oprah's birthday cake, the pages of Elle Decor, House Beautiful.  You get they idea.  They are fabulous and I'm so excited to have them be a part of my collection.  They make the most stunning colors and shapes - many of them I'll feature here along with coordinating monograms and labels.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfCflAChD50rT5_ljQ1VpeXWt6FX6b6f8TQ3Uww50W11LJVQgfaTDhaQnCfBal_YEe3DvTSkv2C_YQmS-lDTkglnepZuoAQpR0mJ2By1fa25XW5m8kDdCGYPMz3p9uvvWjZzcQSqr_wA/s1600/IMG_0267.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfCflAChD50rT5_ljQ1VpeXWt6FX6b6f8TQ3Uww50W11LJVQgfaTDhaQnCfBal_YEe3DvTSkv2C_YQmS-lDTkglnepZuoAQpR0mJ2By1fa25XW5m8kDdCGYPMz3p9uvvWjZzcQSqr_wA/s640/IMG_0267.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />This is an example of a great <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-sets">gift idea</a> in the color <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/falmouth-grey">"Falmouth Grey."</a>  The <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-sets">gift</a> includes Monogrammed Hemstitch Napkins, Monogrammed Cocktail Napkins and Classic Taper Candles.  It would be perfect for a wedding shower or birthday gift for someone special.  As you can see, the napkins come wrapped in Everyday Occasions cotton twill ribbon and also comes with matching matches.<br /><br />Shop this <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/gift-sets">collection</a>. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJGARLEm7ukp8fZb2oB6MVfbtlvIIZQpWnh9_rWOSdkpHKHoiaO7Pk5vi0KD1FwiNR9gmrSl1PzMBaimqPNJV6d7w6echh2LOpjDV-pKpa1-ao0fMMTZKZepiVLh48T3UhdFE5vQ_4Cs/s1600/IMG_0196.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJGARLEm7ukp8fZb2oB6MVfbtlvIIZQpWnh9_rWOSdkpHKHoiaO7Pk5vi0KD1FwiNR9gmrSl1PzMBaimqPNJV6d7w6echh2LOpjDV-pKpa1-ao0fMMTZKZepiVLh48T3UhdFE5vQ_4Cs/s640/IMG_0196.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Here is a closeup of the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens">monogrammed hemstitch napkins</a> in "Seaside."  I love a clean, simple monogram - the essence of classic. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkxOLmOmRROeS-aMhsT4zO8RfQBuZj0lW25OO0TZaCHnpst_VOXpDWrDH_V4lxvrBxIv3SeOuy75tZHVamGib54L95EwSQNFTAFxacQ3PAjM_rcQMnmSicoAb-cI8wxB6V6UuPKTaeuWM/s1600/IMG_0312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkxOLmOmRROeS-aMhsT4zO8RfQBuZj0lW25OO0TZaCHnpst_VOXpDWrDH_V4lxvrBxIv3SeOuy75tZHVamGib54L95EwSQNFTAFxacQ3PAjM_rcQMnmSicoAb-cI8wxB6V6UuPKTaeuWM/s640/IMG_0312.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>  <br />Here are the <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/candles/products/celebration-candles-6">Celebration Candles</a> (6") atop cupcakes - they can turn any simple dessert into something special.  And, those cupcake papers are something special, too...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BebehAkvSyySm2mHCm9bQ4XcQ74c4xVabAMwIyL-9sCRUqMj1o9Ve0hfBaQWfN0xMk6heLfm4Uy_TfSJQoHMe7gmjYehEppH21o64bc16d23Vu91NGR-zw-M2gpnsZYfl0FDNK2ELCw/s1600/IMG_0241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BebehAkvSyySm2mHCm9bQ4XcQ74c4xVabAMwIyL-9sCRUqMj1o9Ve0hfBaQWfN0xMk6heLfm4Uy_TfSJQoHMe7gmjYehEppH21o64bc16d23Vu91NGR-zw-M2gpnsZYfl0FDNK2ELCw/s640/IMG_0241.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />These aren't just any <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/white-tall-cupcake-papers-100-papers">cupcake papers</a>.<br />Most cupcake papers are only 1 inch tall and 2 inches in diameter and Jumbo papers are taller, but are 2 1/4 inches in diameter - too big to fit in a standard cupcake pan.  These liners are 1 1/2 inch, for a nice and tall cupcake, but are only 2 inches in diameter, fitting perfectly in a standard pan.<br /><br />It took me forever to find <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/white-tall-cupcake-papers-100-papers">these perfect cupcake papers</a>...  Sometimes it is the little details that help make your treats look their best.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhay7rkw7mslg42gwNFiq_xzucCyi0D_soNTOC5SspHWS9iLFzujf_5DkcM2KbE1kR4LoVoi85tvJw457tjHGWW-FhzZ0x4TnPctwKE28BxrnGPLmLhF9UYbM37pShZ0wMxY7a9czQt_Uw/s1600/IMG_0335.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhay7rkw7mslg42gwNFiq_xzucCyi0D_soNTOC5SspHWS9iLFzujf_5DkcM2KbE1kR4LoVoi85tvJw457tjHGWW-FhzZ0x4TnPctwKE28BxrnGPLmLhF9UYbM37pShZ0wMxY7a9czQt_Uw/s640/IMG_0335.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />Six of these cupcakes fit perfectly into my <a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0251/1846/collections/IMG_0515_large.jpg?538">kraft paper cupcake boxes</a>.  I'm planning on giving this exact gift idea to Emma's teachers when school starts again.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTzLDkAudpAVreyKoT2nbi2vlrk7J9G-rQm6a_sh0c7poaHOeeFrHDQNgKO5CWVW6AIvCUrJhdiEyQxwDztAh-fP34d9L2WC7AcQ8rtgYmHRqNbQbWwtnY_CxM3YcD7j941xHIbnrU88E/s1600/IMG_9889_3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTzLDkAudpAVreyKoT2nbi2vlrk7J9G-rQm6a_sh0c7poaHOeeFrHDQNgKO5CWVW6AIvCUrJhdiEyQxwDztAh-fP34d9L2WC7AcQ8rtgYmHRqNbQbWwtnY_CxM3YcD7j941xHIbnrU88E/s640/IMG_9889_3.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I first announced the store opening, I shared one of my newest obsessions - sheets of <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/baking-supplies/products/parchment-paper-sheets-200-sheets">pre-cut parchment paper</a> and I had a huge response and many many pre-orders!  They are non-stick and fit perfectly in to a Half-Sheet Pan (16"x12").   The best part is that you just throw it away and only need to give the pan a quick rinse.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQqf2cX1Z27yRi6pAhPbUZlVl2VRCHf2xhoiUxOODhyphenhyphen1Qo6sFa1ihRRvHYn9VseacbxmIMROKnd5C0PnGPU2xc9ZuGqKfr-k7u_VhLglC73n9EN0GaY8qB9C-li63LGBGwduSJjz0Z0s/s1600/IMG_0515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQqf2cX1Z27yRi6pAhPbUZlVl2VRCHf2xhoiUxOODhyphenhyphen1Qo6sFa1ihRRvHYn9VseacbxmIMROKnd5C0PnGPU2xc9ZuGqKfr-k7u_VhLglC73n9EN0GaY8qB9C-li63LGBGwduSJjz0Z0s/s640/IMG_0515.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Of course, no store of mine would be complete without treat packaging - <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/packaging">cello bags & custom labels</a>.  This is one of my most requested items.  You can order them with your initial, name or "from the kitchen of."  I'll also be designing seasonal labels like for Halloween and Valentine's Day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSfPAJTP4XaxjXp_iEwxDYnQX8GJoXq5yU_ysl99WXAOfA2Ik3qGpG4_Udp7vh20Zoc8UQCk6UxDZl42DpAVm2KDnLhbi2iKuikw6FyCeZflouSHUKc_VyhPEcpakxbngpQreDBzGy64/s1600/IMG_0298.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSfPAJTP4XaxjXp_iEwxDYnQX8GJoXq5yU_ysl99WXAOfA2Ik3qGpG4_Udp7vh20Zoc8UQCk6UxDZl42DpAVm2KDnLhbi2iKuikw6FyCeZflouSHUKc_VyhPEcpakxbngpQreDBzGy64/s640/IMG_0298.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />All of my orders are packaged just like this with kraft packaging with logo printed cotton ribbon... and shipped for just $5.  I wanted it to be easy!<br /><br />It makes the perfect thing to send a friend as a gift... or to yourself!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Enjoy browsing and shopping - please send me any feedback.    I'm sure there will be kinks somewhere along the way, so thanks in advance for your patience as I explore this new venture.   Check back often - I have more products to add!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3-STbI5QynDrfeRBW1CogjaJM8fcumJgrSy2XuqIP1NBYgUro0qrubhbScRqGMrmIrJCSijBH8XKxzh032S0E-MtDJgdu3ARE_fOYEbo5jmxH2tIkw2hH5kdKiqtPx4WlC9qDmQf4m8/s1600/market-pin.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3-STbI5QynDrfeRBW1CogjaJM8fcumJgrSy2XuqIP1NBYgUro0qrubhbScRqGMrmIrJCSijBH8XKxzh032S0E-MtDJgdu3ARE_fOYEbo5jmxH2tIkw2hH5kdKiqtPx4WlC9qDmQf4m8/s1600/market-pin.png" /></a></div>Here is a pin to share!<br /><br /> <a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F08%2Fthe-store-is-officially-open.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-q5Jeb9CTqXk%2FUgVAdtzPygI%2FAAAAAAAATO4%2F2FzPGQiydPM%2Fs1600%2Fmarket-pin.png&description=The%20Everday%20Occasions%20Store%20is%20officially%20open%21%20%20Shop%20my%20favorite%20entertaining%20essentials%20-%20candles%2C%20linens%2C%20labels%2C%20packaging%20and%20gifts%21"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

The Store is Officially Open!

It is official... the store is finally open for business! As I announced a couple of weeks ago, I've been working on compiling a colle...

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New Kitchen Details

<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="China cupboard by Martin Moore & Company" class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/c4/20/3d/c4203d90f6a405643b17b15da715f2e8.jpg" style="height: 480px; margin: 0pt auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 611px;" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">My head is spinning.  One side of my brain is thinking about the new store I'm opening on the blog, while the other side is dreaming of the new kitchen we're planning.  I'm posting this update on my current kitchen obsessions as a way to buy myself a little more time... I've been spending every available hour on the new store that I'd promised would be open this week, and it just isn't going to happen.  Yet, anyway.  I will try again tomorrow and Friday... wish me good luck as I continue entering inventory and take (retake) photos. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We're getting closer to pulling the trigger on making some real decisions, so I'm starting to think about details.  I love the hutch, above.  I imagine it filled with my Woodland china and pewter.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy these inspiration photos of what I'm dreaming about for our new addition.  Feel free to share more inspiration with me that you'd think I'd like! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="cottage kitchen w/ thick marble counter tops" class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ec/b3/b7/ecb3b7bbc17aa278208d40e266419600.jpg" style="height: 720px; margin: 0pt auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 480px;" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">A big window above the sink (apron front sink) is a must.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Pull-out retractable counter ledge" class="pinImg fullBleed loaded" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/d0/a9/c0/d0a9c0337761ed5d51c32340e61bc6f3.jpg" style="height: 400px; width: 300px;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Isn't this smart?  I love anything with double uses.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="English kitchen with Farringdon stone floor" class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/86/6a/af/866aaf669064f13750a634149708107d.jpg" style="height: 470px; margin: 0pt auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 309px;" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">I think it is really hard to find an island that isn't cookie-cutter looking.  I really like this design that looks like more of a work table.  Have you seen any other good examples of hard working islands? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/R_WKmY_xawI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/IKqJr3P8SFU/s1600/Kvanum+Kitchens4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5185202938136587010" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/R_WKmY_xawI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/IKqJr3P8SFU/s400/Kvanum+Kitchens4" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" /> </a>The color of these cabinets is lovely - and of course I love the brass pulls and window above the sink.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/R_WKmY_xawI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/IKqJr3P8SFU/s1600/Kvanum+Kitchens4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>

New Kitchen Details

  My head is spinning.  One side of my brain is thinking about the new store I'm opening on the blog, while the other side is dreaming...

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My new Kivik slipcover and a Comfort Works Giveaway!

Happy Sunday—this post is coming to you from a cozy spot on my new living room couch! Well, the couch isn't new but the look sure is. Here's the back story:<br /><br />Shortly after we first moved in nearly a few years ago, we purchased this Ikea Kivik sectional in Teno Grey:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6QeoLDdwdX96JrX06wAjizC4tRtembVhDa2M8gWvmqtUkCk_mssMJLx7m7PxzuMKFtLYlvb5LE2pqh4zG6_qlSqxUNApa8WJ76WEp1VelvnsVL96bymIVrUUg0bUkcak6epfPhetqZtGf/s1600/IMG_3784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6QeoLDdwdX96JrX06wAjizC4tRtembVhDa2M8gWvmqtUkCk_mssMJLx7m7PxzuMKFtLYlvb5LE2pqh4zG6_qlSqxUNApa8WJ76WEp1VelvnsVL96bymIVrUUg0bUkcak6epfPhetqZtGf/s640/IMG_3784.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />It was perfect and we loved it. But then I started updating the room, and my style began to evolve...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbp5VFpt7ZPKcDnEJ783ClynvUi1ngaZ4XZjWgHoXhrFNnZzuOoNjwsPMHZvQDsaqQ-kY3XYrt3DWfFgU3a8EGjqpBG-WJIhIaqVAgJ0o2jDNe0C9jDN4Ue7X-pLOdsCgVMb16tML4LWeo/s1600/IMG_5679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbp5VFpt7ZPKcDnEJ783ClynvUi1ngaZ4XZjWgHoXhrFNnZzuOoNjwsPMHZvQDsaqQ-kY3XYrt3DWfFgU3a8EGjqpBG-WJIhIaqVAgJ0o2jDNe0C9jDN4Ue7X-pLOdsCgVMb16tML4LWeo/s640/IMG_5679.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Still loved the couch, but the amount of greige in the room and lack of pattern was becoming a bit too plain for me. I was bored—ready to step out of my comfort zone and spice things up a bit. That and, well, there were a couple stubborn stains I couldn't get out. It was time for a facelift.<br /><br />Luckily, a nice lady named Rachel from <a href="http://comfort-works.com/" target="_blank">Comfort Works</a> came to my rescue and offered to let me choose one of their fabulous slipcovers. Normally I decline these offers, but I couldn't pass this one up. I was like a kid in a candy store browsing through all the fabric options on their website...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3G4lKGj1PLu1RPvuhOV_D_YdIf5TcucPSPIpx3cMVGe4PEQf0Prby0H-2WOye_9clkXfcKrHOOGx2elSDIcYeYyiJLwTexxsAkHK2u7CY_8ZzhWT4n-MmKsp7pZssxosio82htp57RA8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-04+at+12.37.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3G4lKGj1PLu1RPvuhOV_D_YdIf5TcucPSPIpx3cMVGe4PEQf0Prby0H-2WOye_9clkXfcKrHOOGx2elSDIcYeYyiJLwTexxsAkHK2u7CY_8ZzhWT4n-MmKsp7pZssxosio82htp57RA8/s640/Screen+Shot+2013-08-04+at+12.37.49+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br />My perfect dream couch is made of fluffy white cozy linen goodness... like <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/carlisle-sofa/?catalogId=83&cm_src=AutoRel" target="_blank">this</a>:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://rk.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/wcm/201319/0238/img26o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="576" src="http://rk.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/rk/images/dp/wcm/201319/0238/img26o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />But I just... can't. I don't understand the logistics of this couch. In what world would it not be stained and ruined forever in one day? I mean, we're clean people and we don't even have children and it still would never work. Someone with a white couch please explain how you do it (without spending 3 hours a day on stain removal/laundry duty).<br /><br />So anyway, after I let go of my white couch dream, I started thinking of ways to liven things up in there. I found some Pinspiration...<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/a9/79/d5/a979d5589724688aaf827564c45fd964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/a9/79/d5/a979d5589724688aaf827564c45fd964.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/152207662379565528/" target="_blank">Source</a></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/b1/a9/59/b1a959004b56ad28624ccc9046f1b151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/b1/a9/59/b1a959004b56ad28624ccc9046f1b151.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/152207662379565494/" target="_blank"><i>Source</i></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/76/a0/56/76a05669fb51a9b5a2dfc8029ee47db6.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/152207662379565533/" target="_blank">Source</a></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/ee/32/3b/ee323bd31b8341a88a33fa8cae2d9c86.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="461" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/ee/32/3b/ee323bd31b8341a88a33fa8cae2d9c86.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/152207662379566117/" target="_blank"><i>Source</i></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/8c/72/74/8c7274df2ce846724d3cda88a8cd9bd0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/8c/72/74/8c7274df2ce846724d3cda88a8cd9bd0.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/152207662379566127/" target="_blank">Source</a></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ce/cb/47/cecb47e1fc261f62d06c99c74a63a9b4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ce/cb/47/cecb47e1fc261f62d06c99c74a63a9b4.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/152207662379566183/" target="_blank">Source</a></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Get the idea yet? STRIPES! I've always loved stripes, and what better way to take a risk than on a slipcover I can switch up when I need to?<br /><br />So I requested my fabric samples—a mix of stripes plus some neutrals thrown in there, just in case:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyOxooFocCaioYM56MPz-u02RhXTMSA7vvQpF3rK26AxzuxsR_NNxyf5FKpBUWwOdgSEBKy3FClSK9D54bEMgiuwVVrQOlRoiIz49NPqKv5UnssBEnxEThCTsuLqsaYRQQWM9yUl2tH_BH/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-04+at+12.32.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyOxooFocCaioYM56MPz-u02RhXTMSA7vvQpF3rK26AxzuxsR_NNxyf5FKpBUWwOdgSEBKy3FClSK9D54bEMgiuwVVrQOlRoiIz49NPqKv5UnssBEnxEThCTsuLqsaYRQQWM9yUl2tH_BH/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-08-04+at+12.32.39+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><br />In the end, I decided on 'Somerset Mint', which is the far right swatch with the blue & tan stripes.<br /><br />I showed a closeup of my cover next to my new rug last time...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JAa0O907OpADV6CX4FXF88YIW1WkBFezLKyNdDp9kRkaX-vpbIdpBRUqfj36CIp9kAPN9HHb36lO4KtPjInkqGKPJyc5YkkY9LWL_0ZJOoCI7ktyYXA4oW5PcWiKgYXAkGDeniAXQLdx/s1600/IMG_0643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JAa0O907OpADV6CX4FXF88YIW1WkBFezLKyNdDp9kRkaX-vpbIdpBRUqfj36CIp9kAPN9HHb36lO4KtPjInkqGKPJyc5YkkY9LWL_0ZJOoCI7ktyYXA4oW5PcWiKgYXAkGDeniAXQLdx/s1600/IMG_0643.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Meant for each other <3.<br /><br />The other night I invited a friend over to help me swap out the covers. With my couch it required a little disassembling, and the extra set of hands helped on some of the tighter fitting areas (these covers fit nice and snug, exactly like the factory!)<br /><br />And a couple hours later the room was transformed:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx1hfC3qPXGNJoqWEl3CiaTcOLBBRyyFG72neHbzY5Ail24nMu1_YhQ3YAZiZzG5zhDIQibzP7mKMW_Pzii9ct_BzoYglUsTFoyhVsiOu8xl7nc9kKrcHBW5fgOG2ZNx4B-FyuMhUxW64A/s1600/IMG_0879.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx1hfC3qPXGNJoqWEl3CiaTcOLBBRyyFG72neHbzY5Ail24nMu1_YhQ3YAZiZzG5zhDIQibzP7mKMW_Pzii9ct_BzoYglUsTFoyhVsiOu8xl7nc9kKrcHBW5fgOG2ZNx4B-FyuMhUxW64A/s1600/IMG_0879.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrrFESo1M6dLjl-fWXYZdLwiCaJ2NAAYEnIwEFsGCGR4IBr2ffhqJN5WmNEj_BqU9LFnU7ZK09mycS5BPD4e6dL8O584NkIYLG4AQoZCzjq4cGq-8d7k0MNHvMgWZ29MPDwyKFopQ7uBb/s1600/IMG_0881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrrFESo1M6dLjl-fWXYZdLwiCaJ2NAAYEnIwEFsGCGR4IBr2ffhqJN5WmNEj_BqU9LFnU7ZK09mycS5BPD4e6dL8O584NkIYLG4AQoZCzjq4cGq-8d7k0MNHvMgWZ29MPDwyKFopQ7uBb/s1600/IMG_0881.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_mtar5L0vRcNV3JnhGEJBZzEP63xdxrATNzyyZtJOnGbjIS5GOxWEclD6OcC2BZGAnBVYAQVKmk_RlGMW8IqdYkJcUs9rqSmORAsr2lr3ZJ4Mx7HNdc2pBfi1UNkVWgYDBLVpzmhiosN/s1600/IMG_0877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_mtar5L0vRcNV3JnhGEJBZzEP63xdxrATNzyyZtJOnGbjIS5GOxWEclD6OcC2BZGAnBVYAQVKmk_RlGMW8IqdYkJcUs9rqSmORAsr2lr3ZJ4Mx7HNdc2pBfi1UNkVWgYDBLVpzmhiosN/s1600/IMG_0877.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Can you spot the kitty?</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK9XKN-w0u85bIRFKeca5za91gKOTrBOiwvPnOoiDvzu6LnlaYZN4AIygBq1TAxBUcAzfTaYA5dVdFJSpZZGC5V3jhioNLsvleNF5s4dEptzDtQ17vetMFbMsd3mEQ6yf2sqf66ZNOQlOp/s1600/IMG_0880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK9XKN-w0u85bIRFKeca5za91gKOTrBOiwvPnOoiDvzu6LnlaYZN4AIygBq1TAxBUcAzfTaYA5dVdFJSpZZGC5V3jhioNLsvleNF5s4dEptzDtQ17vetMFbMsd3mEQ6yf2sqf66ZNOQlOp/s1600/IMG_0880.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I also switched out the pillow covers, and I'm really happy with the final results after everything came together:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87VU1Y2LcFbn0gZGKApd0KZIZT_v0Ec6Dlk4XXYD2S5H2OGTouOS-wG7mOCoS2FO8yAui-ZuAkjPcS0bmo_ZHjlXlXu6_6WBkHW5ujdZIgu-SIHTQLB8EA4X4osm4V_bckK1Yy2qK85Sb/s1600/IMG_0883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87VU1Y2LcFbn0gZGKApd0KZIZT_v0Ec6Dlk4XXYD2S5H2OGTouOS-wG7mOCoS2FO8yAui-ZuAkjPcS0bmo_ZHjlXlXu6_6WBkHW5ujdZIgu-SIHTQLB8EA4X4osm4V_bckK1Yy2qK85Sb/s1600/IMG_0883.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhty1F-6nkZExUi3T3JttaE37khtSEALNtGY2uyJBZ1f6zzS3OHL0MpXeXgPnoED7sgS0T4L_W0jJ_ueknHn2FPKjM8slS1UTTPJKCrXd_dmKGq6CfDUmPi2z1iAfUZefIPxctNgRuWEa/s1600/IMG_0885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhty1F-6nkZExUi3T3JttaE37khtSEALNtGY2uyJBZ1f6zzS3OHL0MpXeXgPnoED7sgS0T4L_W0jJ_ueknHn2FPKjM8slS1UTTPJKCrXd_dmKGq6CfDUmPi2z1iAfUZefIPxctNgRuWEa/s1600/IMG_0885.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8axvuopKfD-ZoYNQg64vdmTacspwdGmvhP3IsxktFiZpItvozP1dPhOQwcAe6qzPLexdvH9mKvXEJHSa4bg306i1dZEughk8EHZC76zuEvjuLJxylfXE5KlEEoECO6N6-BIwEXeMYwXI/s1600/IMG_0890-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8axvuopKfD-ZoYNQg64vdmTacspwdGmvhP3IsxktFiZpItvozP1dPhOQwcAe6qzPLexdvH9mKvXEJHSa4bg306i1dZEughk8EHZC76zuEvjuLJxylfXE5KlEEoECO6N6-BIwEXeMYwXI/s1600/IMG_0890-2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I'll admit, I was slightly nervous at first about the change. Going from something that blends into the background to something a bit more in-your-face can take some getting used to. But the more I see it, the happier I am with my decision.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0FuAQ6cqj5lM_HwClYFJLICpqDqi8KiPJWdIiTZCwcIx10Q0qINyh5V0c_4qDB1RIpV9-nk5Ued02lInsx_E9s7h-vEyeWBQh2o8RtagkoOnEWAzVGL-dYaK2ABvevzRqo2mM-RSicLt/s1600/IMG_0889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0FuAQ6cqj5lM_HwClYFJLICpqDqi8KiPJWdIiTZCwcIx10Q0qINyh5V0c_4qDB1RIpV9-nk5Ued02lInsx_E9s7h-vEyeWBQh2o8RtagkoOnEWAzVGL-dYaK2ABvevzRqo2mM-RSicLt/s1600/IMG_0889.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I think it feels homier. The room has more character.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqG3TdFarSbcF457g20npBdZQpgxljWlZwMIjAc_SfEfDxSzYyIPYdZ6rMe5kWqADlMqpum90d4fR8HxVXG5LnDZX34U54Hfv2R6eHBI6pUmHKhdLWvWEeW0bA6YR2YPTPak1vtdbotqs/s1600/IMG_0892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqG3TdFarSbcF457g20npBdZQpgxljWlZwMIjAc_SfEfDxSzYyIPYdZ6rMe5kWqADlMqpum90d4fR8HxVXG5LnDZX34U54Hfv2R6eHBI6pUmHKhdLWvWEeW0bA6YR2YPTPak1vtdbotqs/s1600/IMG_0892.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xoERULZvsLdnFUg5-Ib7rhhqEtBqW-KSJ52p61A2rs5scoLraNbIOCh9ga-W175OVfXeCtQ8NVqAOD0rKnW5udxA6uHSO5uoeAAVi1zg5ID_4y42sr4qLOXGVDXCuiyJNxd7UQ0B3V8D/s1600/IMG_0897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xoERULZvsLdnFUg5-Ib7rhhqEtBqW-KSJ52p61A2rs5scoLraNbIOCh9ga-W175OVfXeCtQ8NVqAOD0rKnW5udxA6uHSO5uoeAAVi1zg5ID_4y42sr4qLOXGVDXCuiyJNxd7UQ0B3V8D/s1600/IMG_0897.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkLQEJy3EivzzXJphEPLkWuJVK13p9z-aywe3KYXKj1vYB1Lr4q6ZpM99T88CtQYOZHwGTWZIRRcR4S3P2AFyDOZq5jeifZCla71q5wcgO1WtaKbFDrnOuW-h4GAP0OBCJEEgCj8kdYSQ/s1600/IMG_0900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkLQEJy3EivzzXJphEPLkWuJVK13p9z-aywe3KYXKj1vYB1Lr4q6ZpM99T88CtQYOZHwGTWZIRRcR4S3P2AFyDOZq5jeifZCla71q5wcgO1WtaKbFDrnOuW-h4GAP0OBCJEEgCj8kdYSQ/s1600/IMG_0900.jpg" /></a></div><br />The fitment is spot on, and I am so pleased with the quality. You'd never know the couch didn't come this way from the factory.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3t24e_QCP7rUSDkZvHqPK7BZbyBV0MkXKe9Gc77GRMMi9Nci5zNZxqmFhCPi8zaqxRrPHN1EPcYnO_FKxNy9XBzRDkqtQrUIzFcmj35eDKdxgOI7ghele79wnyABFskADKlu3V2IkuC2b/s1600/IMG_0901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3t24e_QCP7rUSDkZvHqPK7BZbyBV0MkXKe9Gc77GRMMi9Nci5zNZxqmFhCPi8zaqxRrPHN1EPcYnO_FKxNy9XBzRDkqtQrUIzFcmj35eDKdxgOI7ghele79wnyABFskADKlu3V2IkuC2b/s1600/IMG_0901.jpg" /></a></div><br />My new <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-easiest-cheapest-vintage-grain-sack.html" target="_blank">grain sack pillows</a> feel right at home here...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3z-T-YOxDaJGXge3GptcC_a-mOjFWSmxBzk5TlMlnxa-mWY7nQjPjGj5m3kr6ndW-JL1ImS6z1OqzEpnsudwAngwki0nrjzoVf4nwnRLLQL1uDt14_X7OfiqAy5t8fdTaKAAtuQpWGuy/s1600/IMG_0899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3z-T-YOxDaJGXge3GptcC_a-mOjFWSmxBzk5TlMlnxa-mWY7nQjPjGj5m3kr6ndW-JL1ImS6z1OqzEpnsudwAngwki0nrjzoVf4nwnRLLQL1uDt14_X7OfiqAy5t8fdTaKAAtuQpWGuy/s1600/IMG_0899.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I'm glad I took a personal risk—I think it paid off. I'm still scared of stains so I made sure to Scotch Guard it. Hopefully that will keep it nice and new looking so we can enjoy it for years to come.<br /><br />What do you think of the new look? Does your couch need updating as well? Well, here comes the fun part. Rachel wanted to give one of my readers a new slipcover, too! And before you say you don't have any Ikea furniture that needs a new look... good news: they can make slipcovers for anything! Dining chairs, pillows, bench cushions, ottomans, etc. Any piece of furniture you have, just give them the dimensions and they'll work with you to make something  custom and perfect.<br /><br />Check out these Pottery Barn dining chair slipcovers they made for Jami at <a href="http://www.freckledlaundry.com/2011/12/comfort-works-review-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Freckled Laundry</a>...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7054/6890612875_84ca63f943_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7054/6890612875_84ca63f943_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Drool.<br /><br />You can check out what else they've done in their <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/comfortworks/sets" target="_blank">Gallery</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ComfortWorks.com.au" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page. I'm so glad I found them, because custom slipcovers with super personalized service isn't easy to come by. I predict more of their slipcovers in my future.<br /><br />Want to win a slipcover of your choice worth $150? Here's how:<br /><br />First, visit the Comfort Works <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ComfortWorks.com.au" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page and post a photo on their wall of a sofa/slipcover you love. It can be your own or an inspiration photo... just anything that shows your style.<br /><br />Then, leave a comment here saying why you'd like to win—what would you want slipcovered?<br /><br />That's it! The winner will be chosen next week and announced here on the blog. Competition is open worldwide (yay!)<br /><br />I'm off to enjoy the rest of my afternoon and this warm summer day. Good luck all!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hIQnbXAwDyaGAMqMsgUDN7opcFzgxEs23rJKRrAp2n0UTqu-auFdP81cjlg2vm0lfzLZ5dfCjU5RR9jzgJs0S_FFXpvNCYxS4y6dFIAqR0DsGSCnvghW0hiSZsTWa0CXbIj4J86OAh8O/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hIQnbXAwDyaGAMqMsgUDN7opcFzgxEs23rJKRrAp2n0UTqu-auFdP81cjlg2vm0lfzLZ5dfCjU5RR9jzgJs0S_FFXpvNCYxS4y6dFIAqR0DsGSCnvghW0hiSZsTWa0CXbIj4J86OAh8O/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />

My new Kivik slipcover and a Comfort Works Giveaway!

Happy Sunday—this post is coming to you from a cozy spot on my new living room couch! Well, the couch isn't new but the look sure is. He...

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