Etsy Pick of the Week: Shell Mirror

I am a complete beachaholic. Admitting it is the first step, right? I could literally spend all day, every day at the beach and never get bored with it, and because I've grown up on the rocky and beachy coastline of Rhode Island, I've got a pretty good collection of shells and seaglass. Naturally, it would make sense for me to incorporate some aspects of the beach into my home and I know a lot of you would like to do the same. Sounds easy, right? Well, actually it is, but for some reason I constantly see people who love the beach crossing the line when bringing it into their homes. Sorry, but flip flop coasters are not the way to do it. If you happen to have them, it's not too late. Just slowly go pick them up and bring them to your closest trash can. I think the best way to do it and still be completely chic is to just pick one bold piece such as a shell mirror- the bigger the better- like this one from Etsy shop Beach Grass Cottage. The nice thing about this shop is that they has a variety of sizes and shapes available and can make it to order. They also have a variety of colors and shells available, but I would suggest sticking to all white for a more sophisticated look. It would look great over a nice entry table in a foyer that isn't too cluttered. If you want to display those treasures from your beach jaunts find a few nice glass jars where you can put them. You also can't go wrong by adding a few large scale shells like starfish or coral branches to your decor, but just remember to keep it simple and you can have a very chic but beachy space.

Under My Umbrella

Watermelon Cover by Santa Barbara Umbrella

Ahhhhh, the beach weather has finally arrived and a little bit ahead of schedule here in the Northeast. I am eternally conflicted with my complete and total adoration for the sun and my very fair and freckled skin. And while I can handle a little too much sun (even though I shouldn't) I can't bare to see my kids whom are even more fair skinned than I (in fact the doctor claims she has never seen a fairer pair) get a sunburn. Hence it is time to figure out how I will shade these two outdoor loving little people. Here are my favorite picks for beach and patio umbrellas.

Lillypond Umbrella by Santa Barbara Umbrella
Hampshire Stripe Round Market Umbrella by Pottery Barn

Mid Century Sunshade available at Design Within Reach

Tuuci Razor Shade available at Design Within Reach

Aqua Market Umbrella by Pier 1 Imports

Bamboo Parasol by The Conran Shop

Now I just have to figure out how to keep the little dears under my umbrella. Enjoy the beautiful day!

Etsy Pick of the Week: Cape Cod Beach Tables

We've had a bit of a tease of beach weather here in the northeast. What had been a beautiful spring has suddenly turned into chilly and windy weather. I am hoping that if I start posting about beach items, the warm sunshine-y days will come back to us. This Cape Cod Beach Table from Etsy is perfect whether you are hitting the beach for cocktails and sunset or you're spending the whole day at the beach with the kids. Keep those lunches sand free! It would work great at the park or a concert or polo too because there is actually enough room to put a few glasses and plates on. Now if the sun would just come back out!

Etsy Pick of the Week: Handmade Beach and Garden Chairs

Summer will be here before you know it so it's time to start thinking about what you and your book will be lounging in while you're basking in the sun whether it be in the backyard or by the beach. I am loving these adjustable garden chairs and beach chairs by Etsy seller Gallant & Jones. Most of their fabrics are reminiscent of fabulous french ticking stripe which I'm a big fan of, but I LOVE the Trina Turk fabric on the garden chair above. But any of them will really add that splash of color you need to brighten your day. The Caligata Garden Chairs have a headrest included and the fabric is removeable, while the Brighton Beach Chair fabric is not. All of the chairs are handmade in Canada of black walnut.
Can't you just picture these surrounding a firepit? Or lined up on a long deck facing the ocean? I can just pitcure myself lounging in one with a nice cold glass of chardonnay in hand at one of our beach parties. Ahhhh summer, I can't wait for you to get here.