Our Christmas morning tradition includes Derrick and I waking before the kids to make coffee, light candles, start a fire, put champagne on ice and revel in the stillness and beauty of Christmas morning. What was once a crazy and manic morning (with small children up at the wee hours) has developed into a relaxing, mellow and easy Christmas morning routine.
We like to keep things really simple on Christmas morning. Let’s be honest, we’re exhausted and just want to relax! So we like to build ourselves what we call a “grazing” station as a breakfast buffet for everyone to dish up when they wake. Think of this like a “continental breakfast” menu … a little something savory and sweet, accompanied by mimosas and coffee!
Take some advice and do what we do: outsource baked goods like fresh croissants or cinnamon rolls, and accompany with greek yogurt parfait fixings like berries, granola and organic honey. Then set out small plates, linen napkins and silverware so everyone can help themselves to your little feast!
Image: Clouz Houz / Photography: Zee Wendell
A Christmas Grazing Buffet
CROISSANTS AND ASSORTED BAKED GOODS
GREEK VANILLA YOGURT (our personal fave is Chobani)
GRANOLA WITH SEEDS AND TOASTED PECANS (we buy ours locally at Sparrow Bakery)
FRESH MIXED BERRIES: RASPBERRIES, STRAWBERRIES AND BLUEBERRIES
HONEY, for drizzling
CHAMPAGNE WITH FRESH SQUEEZED OJ
POMEGRANATE SEEDS, for garnish
THE PLAYLIST
If you know us by now, you know that every gathering requires a fun and festive playlist. We’ve compiled music that appeals to all ages (hint- your teenagers won’t cringe when you turn it up!) Play it this Christmas, all day long. It’s the perfect selection of classic holiday tunes along with current and trending songs for the holiday season.
CLOUZ HOUZ TIP: We use the Sonos app and speakers for our music listening. We have two speakers strategically placed out of sight, and they work so well! You can program them by room, and play one, or both. We use them all over the house!
Merry Merry Christmas from our family to yours. We hope you enjoy this blessed and festive day. Cheers to holiday traditions!
Anyone else looking for gifts that will arrive in time for Christmas?? I know I am! I’ve been behind on my holiday shopping, so I thought (while I’m looking) I might as well make a guide of all my favorite finds. Of course, in store shopping is always preferred, and it’s definitely more festive and fun. In fact, if you can support your local small businesses, please do 😊 But if you are in a bind and want to do a little online shopping, I’m here for you! Shopping for that perfect gift can feel overwhelming with all the options out there, but I have curated some fun ideas that are thoughtful and beautiful.
Here are my thoughts on things you can order today and have in time for Christmas morning … but that are also unique and interesting. I hope you love these items as much as I do!
Shopping for the men in our lives can be so challenging! They never ask for anything, or give us any ideas. There aren’t as many products for guys as there are for women, like makeup, hair and beauty products, sparkly jewelry, etc. So, finding something thoughtful and desired yet unique for men can be hard. Let’s be honest, they’re difficult to shop for!
For as long as I can remember, my dad has been a huge car fan. In fact, he’s living out his dream and bought himself a Porsche for his retirement! I found this book and thought what a perfect gift: coffee table book where he’ll love the photography and my mom will actually love displaying on their coffee table.
Speaking of boys and their cars, they want them clean and tidy. I love this handheld vacuum for guys to keep in their trunk for quick clean ups and for keeping the interior looking new. This one has a handy attachment for getting crumbs out of all the crooks and crevices.
Our youngest son is all about retro looking items. I love these bluetooth speaker for him that has all the vibes! I could see this in his room or in the family room where he likes to hang with his buddies.
Derrick owns this denim shirt and wears it ALL THE TIME! We got it from a local store here in Bend, Jack + Millie, which is one of our favorite stops for shopping locally. But if you aren’t local, you can find the same shirt here.
Barbour has been a long-time favorite for a men’s jacket. I love the classic profile, and it works with almost any outfit, whether it’s jeans and boots or dress slacks and button down shirt. It’s so versatile! I think this jacket is the perfect option for the guy in your life … young or old.
A power tool?! Yep, what guy doesn’t love his toys, especially fancy tools. This power drill is something every guy should own. Derrick uses his all the time, whether it’s to hang a light fixture or wood molding — it always does the trick.
Whenever I’m holiday shopping for the women in my life, I like to think about what would I appreciate … and which things we don’t buy for ourselves! There are a few splurges in this collection, but also some items that I know I love, so I think they would make a perfect gift.
First, I love myself a graphic t-shirt! And this one is so, so cute. I’d pair it with sweats and comfy socks for Christmas Day.
This hot pink and furry scarf is a fun pop of color worn with denim and puffer. I’d wear this all winter long!! I’m thinking I may just have to get one for myself 😉 One for them, one for me, right?!?
In my opinion, and considering my coffee table book addiction, you can never go wrong with gifting a book. I love this one. It’s perfect for catching some wanderlust vibes. I’m actually going to Italy in 2023 and can’t wait as it has been way too long since I was there. This gets me so so excited to go back!
Bath and beauty products are luxury items, and let’s be honest, it’s rare that women treat themselves to such gifts. These soaking bath salts are heavenly, and of course, I love the name “The Martini” since it’s my favorite cocktail of choice! But these really are such an indulgence- – they’re touted as taking the “edge off” after a long day. And, who doesn’t like a bath retreat after a busy afternoon? I know I do!
Christmas morning jammies are one of my favorite gifts to give — and of course, to wear! These are lovely, especially since they aren’t just for the holidays and will last year round. The luxe satin is incredibly soft and yummy, and you can never go wrong with white pjs. Add these furry and festive slippers and you have yourself an outfit for Christmas morning … or maybe all day if you are lounging with family! This pretty robe would also be a beautiful accessory for while you are getting ready for Christmas dinner. Add a beautiful sleep mask to match, and you have yourself a really pretty gift for your bestie.
I’ve become the biggest Gucci Westman fan. Her products are perfect for aging skin, and let’s not forget they are all natural and good for you! This trio is such a great value. “Petal” is one of my favorite blushes I have ever owned. In fact, I use it more than any other product in my makeup collection. It works for lips too! The highlight stick also works well under your brow bone. I can’t say enough good things about this brand … a splurge for sure, but believe me when I tell you your gal pal will love you for this.
This reversible tote bag is not only fashion-forward, but also the perfect size for carrying your travel essentials. Or, maybe it becomes the tote you use for your daily commute to/from the office. I love that it has shearling and leather — such a great neutral tote to accessorize any outfit!
I hope these holiday gift ideas are useful and inspirational. You will be shining as the best gift giver this season 🌟 Cheers and good luck gift hunting!
The holidays are all about homes full of family and friends. Are you preparing your house for guests? If so, this post is for you! We’re gathering all our favorites and sharing tips for getting your guest room ready. And, as in our case, that could be your kids’ rooms that have to work for both kids and guests! Two of our three are coming home from school, and we have guests coming to stay too. Some may think there’s no way a kids room can double as a comfy, inviting room for guests — but we’re here to tell you it can serve both purposes! Follow these steps and you’ll feel ready and able to entertain guests over the holidays … like a pro.
CLOUZ HOUZ TIP: To make guests feel welcome and comfortable, it’s the simple things 😊 For example, I like to add travel-sized toiletries to nightstands in case anyone has forgotten items like toothpaste, aspirin, earplugs, charging cord, etc. Also, a carafe of water and a glass for an easy middle of the night sip is always a nice touch. Your guests will appreciate these small gestures!
image: Clouz Houz / Photography: Zee Wendell
Treat whichever room you’re designating as a “guest room” as a special retreat for your guests. Whether it’s a den with a pull out sofa or an office with a blow up mattress, you can create a cozy space for family and friends where they can relax and enjoy their time in your home. See below for some items that we think are not only comfy and inviting, but also practical and budget-friendly. Adding these will make a “5 star hotel” experience in your own home!
CLOUZ HOUZ TIP: We needed a nightstand in our daughter’s bedroom since she took her furniture with her to college. So, we turned a chair into a surface by adding a stack of books. Then we placed a small dish to collect guest’s jewelry, etc. and set out a tray to hold a glass of water or a phone.
Our little laundry room lacked some key necessities for our family of five, and it was dated and cramped. So we decided to give it a major refresh ... see below for all the details!
We’ve never had a stackable washer and dryer unit, but we have to say- – for a small laundry room — we are huge proponents! By going “up” we were able to save some of the footprint of the room so we could add a sink and more counter space for folding.
UTILITY SINK
We knew we needed a sink for various tasks like treating stains, washing delicates, filling vases, etc. The room didn’t currently have a sink, but we were able to easily add a water line off the plumbing — it was already there for the washing machine. We are so happy to have this 18″ under mount sink, even though it’s small. It was a great solution to achieve our goal.
STORAGE
This room is so so small, and yet, we needed a way to store things like cleaning supplies, rags, vases, iron/steamer etc. Upper cabinets “dwarfed” the space even more, so we decided to eliminate all those cabinets except the ones over the new sink. This allowed some closed storage without feeling too heavy. Then Derrick built some open shelving under the new butcher block countertop. I found the cutest café curtains to close off the open shelving, which provides some softness to the room and adds a little texture.
HANGING SPACE FOR DRYING DELICATES
Sometimes it’s better to dry clothes naturally, so I knew we needed a way to hang them. However, the space was so narrow that the extendable hanging rods I found online were going to extend too far into the room. Thank goodness, I found the most perfect un-lacquered brass rod and brackets from which to hang our clothes! I love its size (it’s fully customizable in length), and the brass is a beautiful accent against the dark paint color.
CREATE A CLASSIC… AND SOMEWHAT VINTAGE VIBE
I knew this space lacked character (I mean, how many laundry rooms really have character?), but doing laundry is one of my least favorite chores, so I knew it needed to be pretty and inviting. Maybe if the space felt more charming, I would feel more inspired to get all our laundry done? Ha ha … So, we added new tile flooring, bead board on all the walls, butcher block countertops, and vintage inspired light fixtures to give the room some soul and character. See our mood room below for all the inspo.
CLOUZ HOUZ TIP: Add a moody, rich color to a small space that has no natural light! Embrace the darkness, and just add more artificial lighting. It really makes the space feel cozy and inviting.
See all the links below to shop this look. If your laundry room doesn’t necessarily spark inspiring and happy feelings, we hope this will inspire you to create one. Of course, we’re always happy to help!
Entertaining around the holiday season can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be! In fact, these and tips and hacks will make you shine as the entertainer of the season 🌟 Don’t sweat the small stuff — in fact, find ways to simplify your next party. Here’s a pro-tip that will help: buy store bought, quality items while supporting your local restaurant or bakery, and outsource from them whenever you can. In fact, your guests will love that you’re enjoying yourself and visiting with them, rather than the opposite — laboring in the kitchen and feeling stressed!
Follow these steps and your next holiday gathering will be not only festive and memorable, but FUN for everyone … including you. Remember, the party is a party because of you and the guests that gather to enjoy one another!
CLOUZ HOUZ TIP: Let’s be honest: good cocktails are a MUST. We like to squeeze all our fresh juices ahead of time, and store them in mason jars in the fridge. This way you have mixers on hand when party is in full swing! Other things for the bar: fresh garnishes! Prep herbs, berries on toothpicks, olives, etc. that may be needed for your recipe and store in ziploc bags in the fridge.
As I mentioned, supporting your local restaurant for appetizers or desserts is where you can save yourself some time and energy. Invest in good quality catering and it will be worth every penny! Things we’ve bought for parties in the past include thai lettuce wraps with peanut sauce, kobe beef sliders, and fondue ready to be reheated (pre-cut veggies and bread for an easy app). We’ve also picked up crostini with different toppings such as goat cheese and prosciutto or bruschetta, and mini cupcakes or pies for dessert.
Then, supplement the store bought items with some of your tried-and-true recipes to make it feel a little more personal. For instance, it’s a rare occasion that Derrick doesn’t make candied bacon (see recipe below) for every holiday gathering. Our kids love it, our guests love it — I mean, what’s not to love? Salty bacon with a sticky sweet, crunchy topping?!!?
Image: Barefoot Contessa
CARMELIZED BACON
1/2 CUP LIGHT BROWN SUGAR, lightly packed
1/2 CUP CHOPPED OR WHOLE PECANS
2 TEASPOONS OF KOSHER SALT
1 TEASPOON BLACK PEPPER
1/8 TEASPOON GROUND CAYENNE PEPPER
2 TABLESPOONS OF MAPLE SYRUP
1/2 POUND OF THICK-SLICED APPLEWOOD-SMOKED BACON
Here is the recipe for this delicious and easy appetizer — it’s perfect for nibbling during cocktail hour!
Our list of entertaining essentials is below … these are our Clouz Houz favorites! ♥️ They keep us from feeling overwhelmed and exhausted during this busy time of year. There are also pretty things keep the holiday vibes festive and fun!
It’s our third Christmas in our Fall Creek house, and this one feels more special than ever …
We’ve invested so much into this little home of ours, and it’s feeling more and more like us each year. I love how it’s coming together, and I especially love decorating it for the holidays. There’s something beautiful about setting the tone for another year of memories to be made. In just a couple of weeks, we will be a full house again with all kids home, meaning lots of laughter, activity and festivity!
As you might know, I love to create a cozy and comforting vibe in every space I design, and that couldn’t be more true than for our own home. With three kids, two dogs and lots of teenagers coming and going, I want everyone to feel welcome and at ease. For the holidays, I like to infuse traditional and vintage pieces with lots of greenery, candlelight and soft textures. And, of course, there are plenty of throw blankets to curl up with!
Over the years, I’ve found that I use less and less of the quote/unquote holiday décor that I have collected (that said, I’ll never give up my nutcracker collection!). I’ve learned that what I love to use most for decorating is greenery and other things from nature. Throughout the holiday season, you’ll find me at places like Trader Joe’s selecting the most recent variety of holiday greens, berries and magnolia. I’ll be infusing these stems with really, really good faux garlands, and this year — a faux tree!
Never did I think I would ever use a faux tree, but there is something refreshing about not having to worry about it drying out or falling over!! To say it has saved my marriage to Derrick may be an exaggeration, but seriously, it’s nice to know the tree will last throughout the entire season! 😉
I love to add some whimsy and a bit of the unexpected to every space I can …
Our dairy cow, “Milkshake,” has done that for the many homes we’ve lived in throughout the years. I found her at a favorite store in Portland years ago, and knew I had to have her. The kids have loved having her in our homes … she is a conversation starter for sure!
Milkshake lived at Design Bar here in Bend for the last couple of years, and when I left I knew I needed her to come with me. Some may say I’m crazy for such a display, but we adore her. And, for those of you who are wondering, she was a dairy cow who lived on a farm and died of natural causes. In fact, the farmer who owned her thought his cows were so beautiful he went into business as a taxidermist and began selling them to preserve their beauty! She is pretty gorgeous, isn’t she? I mean, look at those lashes!?
The kitchen is the hub (and the heart) of the home …
And in our house, this couldn’t be any more true since it’s in the center of our main floor! We love gathering around the big island while cooking, mixing cocktails and catching up with family and friends. This year, I kept things super simple and used a large vintage crock filled with fresh greens, and one single large hurricane with mini pinecones and candle for holiday accents. I use pinecones all the time — they extend beyond the holidays and through the winter — which in my opinion is a huge win!
We hope you have fun decorating your home and preparing for the most magical time of the year. Can’t wait to share more tips and favorites for making your home feel welcoming and festive. Cheers to you this holiday season!
Through the years, we've learned that many clients need help getting their homes to feel complete and personalized during the final stages of their project. So, we've created a service that specifically addresses this issue: we source all the décor for your home, oversee installation, and then style it all beautifully in a way that speaks to your home's aesthetic. Our job is to read between the lines ... because let's face it, it's hard to know how to express what we want our space to look like when all we know is how we want it to feel in the end. So ... let us help you!
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved styling spaces, from tabletop décor, like setting a beautiful table for a special event, to styling bookshelves, mantles, kitchen islands, coffee tables and consoles (LOL, you get the idea)! To know that I assisted in arranging things in a way that will give clients years of enjoyment is very fulfilling. I thrive on creating spaces that spark joy, and that clients say just feel like “home.” What I’ve heard over and over again is that when it comes to completing their new home’s spaces, clients run out of steam, or just simply don’t know how to get the end result they are going for.
Well, we know how to do that for you! We’ll make your home feel complete and ready to enjoy. No more second guessing what should go where from a design and functional standpoint. In other words, we’ve got you. Follow along to learn about how we can help.
1. Schedule a Consultation
Check our link here to schedule a 15 minute consultation to discuss your needs for finishing out your space(s). Or, maybe you have a special event coming up and you want your home to feel ready. You want to showcase it all in it’s glory, but aren’t sure how to go about that. Let us help you find that special something that makes your home feel unique. When you book the complimentary consultation, you’ll complete a questionnaire. The answers will allow us to better understand your needs and wants before our meeting.
Photography: Zee Wendell / Styling: Clouz Houz
2. So, Here’s How it Works …
Once we’ve had a chance to chat about your project and decide if we are a good fit for each other, we will discuss the goals for your project. We’ve found that most people fall into two different categories in terms of how they’d like us to help.
Full Service In-Home Styling:
This is for the client that wants us to do all the legwork when it comes to sourcing, purchasing and installing accessory and accent décor. It’s for the client that may not have the time, energy or desire to shop and install everything themselves. If this is you, during our 15 minute phone consultation, we will talk next steps and schedule an in-home meeting where we can measure, take pictures, and assess what you want to keep and what you want to discard. We find the “missing links” in your space(s), and determine how to make the space feel finished and styled. And, please be assured that when we say “styled,” we don’t mean that it will look magazine-ready — you know?! We want it to be a reflection of you and your home. And, we like to think of ourselves as styling gurus who create that fine balance of finished but personal. We want to make sure it feels like your home. We’ll ask lots of questions, like “what are your family heirlooms that must remain?” “How do you want to live in the space?” “What aren’t you attached to?” “Where do you typically like to shop for home décor?” We then work all these needs/wants into our ideas and styling.
Styling Concierge:
This is for the client that isn’t local to Bend or Portland, Oregon. Maybe you live outside Oregon, or maybe you are ok with doing the styling yourself, and you just need help with what to purchase. This is what we call a “Styling Concierge.” Basically, with this service, you will provide us with photos and measurements of your space(s), and the items you need help finding for those spaces. We then provide you a detailed shopping list with links to purchase and install those items yourself. It’s basically a virtual styling service, where we do all the sourcing remotely. You’ll receive a packet by email, including a spreadsheet with links, and mood boards with pictures showcasing what we think best suits your space. You can purchase the items at your leisure, on your own schedule.
Clouz Houz Tip: For both categories of clients, the service only includes small accent furniture and home accessorizing. If you need help on a grander scale that includes room layout and big furniture items, this service might not be for you. This is strictly for those clients whose home is 80-90% complete, but who need help with the last 10-20% to bring it all together!
Photography: Zee Wendell / Styling: Clouz Houz
3. Cost of Services
You can check out our full itemized list of what is included with each package — whether it’s Full Service In-Home Styling or the Styling Concierge — on our Work With Us page. However, I wanted to mention a few points that are very important for you to keep in mind.
The fees are presented in a specific way so we can provide you an upfront cost for the styling services we’ve outlined. We’ve learned from many years of experience what works and what doesn’t — you can trust us. But, please do reach out if you have questions or concerns!
If you think you need more than just styling help, we can do that too! In fact, we also provide full interior design services. If you are interested in a more full service approach, we can explain it in more detail during our call. Full Interior Design services include everything from hard materials selection, coordination with architect and/or builder, spatial planning, 2D and 3D renderings, furniture sourcing and layout, to lighting specifications and all other home décor items such as rugs, wall treatments, artwork and other accents.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q:What is the lead time for sourcing and installing items for my project?
A: It really depends on the size of your project… we typically suggest one-two weeks for sourcing all items and another week or two for scheduling an installation.
Q: If I fall into the category of Styling Concierge, what exactly do I have to do?
A: You are our liaison to your project. You provide us details that include, measurements of your space, photos, pieces we need to incorporate, etc. You can rely on our expertise with finding the right pieces for your space, and then you take it from there! You will purchase and handle the installation yourself. Please note, we also can’t be responsible for re-sourcing items if they are out of stock if you choose to purchase at a later date.
Q: Can I ask for revisions to the pieces you have suggested in my shopping list?
A: We provide you a list of items that we feel are best suited for your home. Trust us… we know what we are doing and we find the pieces that we think in our professional opinion are what will make your space(s) come together.
Q: Does the service for both packages include the cost of the items themselves?
A: In the case of the Full Service In-Home Styling package- we will request a retainer at the onset of your project. We will help determine a budget for your project for all items we need to source and install and use your retainer to purchase such items. For the Styling Concierge service our fees are just for our services- you will be responsible for purchasing the items at your own expense.
Q: Can you style my Great Room?
A: Absolutely! But please understand, that a great room typically consists of a living room, dining room and kitchen… in some cases even an entryway! The package fees are per room, so in this case you can assume that you will need to purchase the package for three rooms; not just one.
Q: Am I committed to all the pieces that you source for the Full Service In-Home Styling package?
A: We do our best to find the perfect pieces for your space. Unless you are absolutely opposed with something we can discuss returning (re-stocking fees may apply), however; we have found that 99% of our clients usually end up walking in and LOVING everything we have found.
Q: Can I help with the install for the Full Service In-Home Styling?
A: Actually we like to do all the work solo… we bring in our team of stylists and work our magic. As one client once said… it’s like a “Move That Bus!” moment from the TV show “Extreme Makeover: Home Addition”. We ask that the house is clean, empty and ready for us on our scheduled install date. When you return your home will be ready for your big REVEAL.
We really hope this is helpful! We want to help you bring your home across the finish line. Drop us a comment, schedule a complimentary call or email us today and let us know if you are interested in working together. We’d love to meet you!
These are some of the items I’m using for holiday décor this year — they’re my faves. Hopefully you can also find something for decking your halls! This year, I kept things simple. In fact, if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably only use a third of your décor. After all, it’s the little things that make the biggest statement when decorating your home for the holidays. Of course, your tree is the star … so make that fabulous! I found the most beautiful glass balls (see below) to add to our tree, and along with special family ornaments, they nicely compliment the beaded garland and pinecones.
Once you’ve set the stage with your tree, you can add other festive touches here and there. Bowls of pinecones, small “tabletop” faux trees, accents of vintage ribbon tied around vases or candles, beautiful wrapping paper for presents under the tree, new hand towels at the ready for bar clean up … you get the idea. Switch out a few things and your home will feel ready!
Clouz Houz Tip: One of the easiest things you can do to make your home feel festive is use cut fresh greenery. Mix it in with faux stems for arrangements all around the house. This helps the faux look more real, AND you don’t have to worry about the entire arrangement drying out and looking horrible by Christmas!
Next week on the blog, I’ll be sharing more tips and pics for the holidays, as well as ways you can bring little festive touches to your home this holiday season.
I’ve been obsessing over beautiful gallery walls lately … I love the vibe they create! There’s something about a carefully curated collection of artwork and/or prints that resonates with the homeowner — it makes it that much more special. There are many ways you can install such gallery, like a “row” pattern where photos are stacked in rows together. In fact, I love this for a family photo gallery wall running up a staircase, like seen here in Kylie Jenner’s home. However, my favorite way to display artwork is the way we installed it in our powder bath! I balanced pair of prints with larger singular pieces so there is some “pattern,” but overall it is actually quite random. And, I think it’s fun to add something three dimensional, like the antler mount.
Clouz Houz Tip: Combine some pieces that are matted and others that are not. The mix makes for a more curated look, rather than just purchased and put together all at once! And for that matter, mix it up with the frames as well. They don’t all have to match, but do choose a consistent theme — maybe it’s wood and metal. Or, select different styles of frames, like some ornate and some more modern (I found some nice ones at Target).
Gallery walls in unexpected places, like a bathroom or kitchen, are sooo cool. They give the space personality without feeling contrived. Look at the kitchen below … if you don’t have any upper cabinetry or a window over your sink, what a fun way to finish out the space with something like beautiful artwork! Also, note the interesting mix of framed and unframed artwork — it looks more personal this way.
Image: Lauren Liess
Here is some more inspiration that I’m LOVING. Hopefully it will get your creative juices flowing if you are considering trying this in your own home. All of these are equally intriguing and gorgeous in their own right. The options are endless on what you collect and how you install it!
Image: Lee Stanton
Image: Making It In The MountainsSource: Chris Loves Julia
Shop below for some of the same pieces I used for our gallery wall. And, I’ve added some that are on my wish list! Aside from the online vendors like Juniper Print Shop (who I personally think has some of the more beautiful replications out there), you can also find great vintage pieces on Etsy, Chairish and even Facebook Marketplace. Most importantly, have fun with it!
Setting a beautiful table for family and friends is one of my favorite things to do. It doesn’t matter if it’s for a small intimate dinner for two or a feast for 12! I come from generations of women who loved to entertain; both of my grandmothers were amazing cooks, and my mom is an incredible hostess. As a child, I remember going to their homes for fun family dinners, and sometimes there were upwards of 20 people with all my cousins, aunts and uncles! We would sit at the “kids’ table,” and there was also an adult table … both were equally charming and special.
Our home is small, so when I set the table I want it to feel cozy so everyone can gather and enjoy one another. Our large banquette seat has seen many a night of sitting around, laughing, talking and eating! My goal is to create a vibe that is inviting — where nothing is too precious — so y0u can pull out all the stops with special china, glassware and silverware. The mix of high/low applies here. For instance, use your crystal wine glasses with bandana napkins from Amazon like I did here!
Thanksgiving Chez Clouser
This Thanksgiving, it’s all about convenience and ease for us, and I’m trying to not add any pressure by feeling like everything has to be perfect. I think we will be ordering some food from a local grocer, and supplementing with some of our favorite family dishes. It doesn’t have to take days in the kitchen for things to be extra special — in fact, I always take a page from Barefoot Contessa’s cookbook by keeping things simple with easy recipes with good ingredients. This allows you to have time to enjoy your guests. That’s what is’ all about anyway, right?! Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays — we love having all the kids home with their friends, and we want to be able to enjoy the day when they are here.
Read on for some easy and simple tips for making a beautiful Thanksgiving dinner and table scape so you can have time to relax and catch up with loved ones!
LAYING THE FOUNDATION
#1 TABLE AND LINENS
I like to think of the table as the foundation of any beautiful tablescape. Leave it exposed and “undressed” with simple place settings and linen napkins, or add a beautiful tablecloth. I’m currently obsessed with this one that I purchased this year to carry through us through the holidays. It’s a classic plaid in a beautiful rich brown, which is an of-the-moment color that will work for multiple purposes. In fact, I may switch it up for Christmas and incorporate rich burgundy accents. You can get this look with similar linens that as well, like this one. I added these bandana handkerchiefs (thank you @theidentitecollective for the inspo!) to create a casual and relaxed vibe.
Or, if you’d prefer not to use a tablecloth, I own these hand blocked printed napkins and absolutely love them! They are not too “holiday” but they are a gorgeous, neutral accent. Add in some seasonal branches and greens, and you’ll have a simply chic and elegant table like this one below.
source: sugarandcharm.com
#2 THE “ACCOUTREMENTS”… DISHES, FLATWARE AND GLASSWARE
This year, I’m keeping it simple with the place settings. I use these everyday white dishes from Hearth & Hand Collection at Target all the time! I love their simplicity — they make your table feel easy and not “too stuffy.” Then I layer in beautiful crystal glassware to create a fun juxtaposition of simple with elegant. I’m loving these wine glasses from the Athena Calderone collection for Crate & Barrel. This gold flatware is inexpensive and pretty, and though we run it through the dishwasher, the finish still looks as good as it did on day 1!
Image: @eyeswoon
#3 LAYER WITH GREENS AND CANDLELIGHT
This is where the magic happens! Candles make any table feel more elegant and special. These adorable tea lights from the Amber Lewis Collection for Etsy are really unique. I love the little natural leather band and rivet detail, and bought three sets of three to scatter down the center of the table with greenery.
As for centerpieces, I like to use various containers and arrange them sporadically so it doesn’t feel “too perfect.” In this case, I used some white vases that I’ve owned for years, and a vintage stoneware dish to hold magnolia leaves and seeded eucalyptus from Trader Joe’s. I clipped rosemary from our yard, and added a sprig to each napkin that was tied in a knot. I love the smell of rosemary at the table! This is a fun opportunity to be creative, and to use items you already own and fresh greenery from your garden.
You could also use mason jars, old bottles, and vintage glasses to group small arrangements of greenery and flowers. Keep arrangements low — there’s nothing worse then feeling like you can’t talk to someone because there are gigantic stems in your way!
#4 FINAL TOUCHES- ACCENTS OF BRASS AND ANTLERS
Add something naturally “architectural” for added interest. In this case, I used antlers — I love using antlers for styling! They add a beautiful natural element to any space. You could also use pomegranates and pears, or pinecones and leaves to give a layered effect to your table. And lastly, add what I like to call the “jewelry”– I love these European Salt and Pepper mills from @shopmeridianny. They give a bit of and old world feel, and elevate the entire tablescape.
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The kitchen at the Brookside Loop project turned out oh. so. good … better than we could ever have imagined! We added lots of character by using bold paint on existing cabinetry and aged brass hardware. We also refreshed all hard materials, which included quartz and butcher block countertops, subway tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. Then we layered those finishes with accents of white oak chairs, a Carrara marble table and simple white dishes. Check out these items to get this look!
What a week. It’s Thursday evening but feels like it should be Friday! Anyone else with me? No plans, just soaking in the last bit of light with a glass of wine and a slow bath. We are heading to Chicago tomorrow for our Clouz Houz work retreat-excited, a little tired, and trying to savor the quiet before a full weekend ahead. Will be sharing more of the fun with stories while we’re there!
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if you’ve been dreaming of that Old-World aesthetic but have no idea where to start, comment ‘ELEGANT’ and we’ll send you all the tools you need to get this look with confidence!
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Some days I look around and still can’t believe this is our life. Not because it’s perfect or easy… but because it’s ours.
We started over when we didn’t mean to. Moved to a new place. Took a chance on a completely different rhythm. And slowly, we fell in love with this slower way of living. With the quiet. The space. The chance to build something that actually matters to us.
It’s wild how one unexpected change can unlock a version of your life you never even knew was possible.
Just a little reminder—there’s no “right” timeline. You’re allowed to begin again, to take the long way, to dream up something new.
Initial materials selections vs. photo-realistic renderings:
We’re back with part 2 of our #BendTailoredTraditional project, and this phase is all about refinement. Seeing the initial material selections come to life in these photo-realistic renderings is a reminder that every decision- from cabinetry finishes to lighting choices—plays a role in the overall feel of a space.
As we finalize the designs for the kitchen, dining room, and wet bar, we’re keeping the balance between timeless elegance and modern warmth at the forefront. And next? The living room reveal is on the horizon, and we haven’t shared a single detail yet...
For details on what’s included in the May Edit, comment ‘MAY’ and I’ll send you a DM with this month’s collection that I’ve hand picked for you! FYI you must be following prior to commenting in order to get the link!
This curated list goes beyond the month of May and are timeless choices to consider incorporating into your home or lifestyle.
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CLOUZ HOUZ TIP: We use the Sonos app and speakers for our music listening. We have two speakers strategically placed out of sight, and they work so well! You can program them by room, and play one, or both. We use them all over the house!
Clouz Houz Tip: One of the easiest things you can do to make your home feel festive is use cut fresh greenery. Mix it in with faux stems for arrangements all around the house. This helps the faux look more real, AND you don’t have to worry about the entire arrangement drying out and looking horrible by Christmas!
