Styling a Coffee Table with Chairish

When it comes to styling my home, I tend to be a bit of a minimalist- in both color (neutral always wins it for me) and accessories. And when I do buy trinkets and decor, it has to be something I really love to look at. But I do love putting together areas of my living space that pop a little more, and give the entire room a nice balance of visual interest. One of the places I love to do this is with a coffee table, so when Chairish approached me about my take on styling one of their gorgeous vintage coffee tables, I was all in. 

Chairish is an online resource, and basically a design lovers solution to buying and selling vintage furniture across the country. The company features beautifully curated pieces, and includes everything from art to decor to rugs and lighting too. I was asked to share my tips on styling, using one of the gorgeous vintage coffee tables available in their shop right now. My heart jumped a little when I saw this four drawer black lacquer lovely, and it was so fun to put together a collection of accessories and must-haves that would make this gem shine. 

I started with the necessities: the items that would ground the entire look, while also keeping everything together. This white hexagon tray is dainty and functional, and I thought it provided a nice juxtaposition to the masculine lines of the table. 

My next go-to is books. I love switching out really great coffee table books periodically because they are constant conversation starters, and tend to be lovely to look at too. I have both of these books- Erin Gates’ Elements of Style and Coco Chanel by Lisa Chaney- and both of their black and white covers are the perfect amount of neutral yet stylish for this table. I also love mixing in other trade style books, whether they be for entertaining or even just photo books. My biggest requirement for a really great coffee table design is that it’s both functional and beautiful. 

From there I will always have a candle and flowers. I love finding soft, floral scents that aren’t too strong for the room, and it’s always a bonus for pretty containers too. This Cucumber Pop candle would be a great way for a subtle addition of color in the mix, and I love how the rim is in gold, pulling it together with the neutrals too. 

Finally, we can’t forget ‘les objets’- the accessories that really speak to your personality and finish off the entire look. I loved this lacquer box (perfect for the functional purpose of concealing anything from remotes to the small items that have no place to go) and this vintage brass wishbone for style and luck. 

It was so fun to find pieces to style this beautiful table; Be sure to check out their entire collection of coffee tables here. 

On Copying Vs. Inspiration

I know what you're thinking- I get back on the blogging train after a few months hiatus and after a few lighthearted posts I go straight into a serious one. But in reality, it's been on my and some of my industry friends' minds lately. And when I saw an Instagram post from Kathryn at Creme Brands (@kathrynduckett) the other day, which lead me to the source of the conversation,  I decided I wanted to join in on the conversation too.

Let me preface all of this by saying that I believe it's extremely hard to define the fine line between copying and simply being influenced by someone else's work. After all, everywhere we turn there are beautiful pictures on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook...everyday someone is perfectly styling a table in the right light for the perfect 'sneak peek'. I think it's natural to want to hold yourself to a standard, or to admire what someone else is doing. I find this especially hard if you're a perfectionist, like me. I mentioned yesterday that I realized I only have four posts on Instagram in the month of October- and I completely realize it's because most of the photos never made it off my iphone because I just didn't think they were good enough.

But perfectionism aside, I do agree with these ladies that way too much gray area is being taken advantage of. It almost seems the days of "how can I create something different" are replaced with "how can I recreate that". I think being inspired by someone or something is a beautiful launching pad for something even better. I've come to realize over the years that everyone has to find their own way of doing things. Jacin Fitzgerald of Lovely Little Details (@lovelydetails) even mentioned once that she never looks on Pinterest anymore because no matter what it seems everyone has already done "your great new idea".

So with that, I propose that we have a little tunnel vision. Put your head down and respect your strengths and weaknesses in business, social media, and how you find inspiration. Now I understand why almost all of the wedding designers I've had the opportunity to speak with almost always say they never read wedding blogs- they don't want to become swayed, even subconsciously. It's like the saying goes- be aware of what's going on (trends, competition, etc), but don't become obsessed. For me, I'm realizing that while I still read wedding blogs, I've also added in a copious amount of interior design and home reads....it still keeps me in the creative, and most of all it inspires me to find ways to incorporate those style elements into my work.

I'd love to hear...what have your experiences been with copying, or seeing so much of the same things in your industry on social media? How have you dealt with it? 

Xo,

Brandi

October Insta-Favorites

October was a big month for the Soirettes- we had a myriad of projects and weddings to tend to- who ever said wedding season ended in September?? Looking back through all of the photos, a few things became obvious to me: 1) I really need to be posting on Instagram more. Seriously, 4 posts in October? Not good. 2) Kim is much better at posting on Instagram than I am, and therefore most of these photos are from her account (good job Kimmy!) 3) October was a busy month, and no wonder I'm tired. Here are a few photos from our adventures in October-and now that I've admitted to the world that I'm not so great at publicly documenting things, please check my Instagram for what will be a crazy amount of posts this month!

We started this month off with the sweetest private ranch wedding, ever. Dubbed the "fancy farm wedding", our bride wore a gorgeous pink dress, and lots of gold and sparkle made way into the farm setting. It was also one of the most torrential wind storms ever, too- back up plan in the barn worked well in a split second change of weather!

Baby Hudson is a star. 

Our most favorite project to date- an amazing collaboration with so many great vendors. Our "Come Away With Me" photo shoot introduced a brand new venue in McCall and had so much fall and winter inspiration included- can't wait to share more of this one! And no, those were not Moscow Mules in our cups, but rather warm coffee as we were freezing!

The three musketeers at our last wedding in October

And bonus: this one is actually not on Instagram (surprise), but on my iphone, so I included it anyways. A snapshot of the fall-inspired table we designed for Paperie and Pen's grand opening at the Village at Meridian....it was actually quite a challenge to take the ideas of one design and change it up a bit. Fun nonetheless, and hope you've been able to stop by their amazing new store! 

Happy Wednesday! 

Xo,

Brandi

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday, lovelies!

I've been on a quest for more "me" in my life...and all of these things just spoke to me this week. Here are five of my favorites...what new finds or loves do you have this week? Happy weekend!

Xo,

Brandi

1. Julep Wedding Nails. Loving these shades for a big day | 2. Just feeling a little smitten with this gold pattern by Saffron Avenue | 3. These monogram cups are perfect for the cup of joe in the morning...Soirette Stephanie actually bought me one last year for my baby shower and it has become my favorite cup since | 4. Loving the newest patterns and palettes from Plum Pretty Sugar for BHLDN | These candles from Anthropologie are equal parts cheery and chic.

A Soiree Birthday | Happy Birthday Brandi

As we've mentioned before, around here we celebrate birthday months, because we love them that much! So today we wish a very happy birthday to Brandi. (The queen of birthday months!) Here's to a day as classy, fun and fabulous as you are!

xoxo,

The Soiree Team

Happy Weekend

Hello Lovelies, happy Friday! Isn't it funny how much we all look forward to a Friday each week. For me Fridays are my favorite day because I usually get the most done, ironically. It's a day that most of my vendor team is out on weddings or other jobs, my clients are focused on closing out their week, and it leaves the inbox gleefully silent and the phone quiet. So Fridays tend to be project and design days for us. My girls come in, we get prepared for the upcoming week, blast Pandora, and we typically work the afternoon away in our own projects. Oh, and can't forget Whole Foods sushi and cakelets (walk in on us and you might find us indulging in mid-afternoon dessert, what can we say?). All  in all, Fridays are the best. Here's to a relaxing weekend, and hopefully filled with sun, wherever you are. I'll leave you with one of our favorite spring bouquets of all time, from our friends at Boise At Its Best and photo by the lovely Tana Photography. Colorful and filled with some of my most coveted bridal flowers like anenomes, freesia, and hydrangea.  Happy weekend!

Xo,

March In Photos

Well, maybe we should call the title of this post "Marchish" because we weren't amazing with our photography skills during March. So there are a few from February that made this list too, and we're going with it.  Here are just a few snapshots of Soiree goings-on in the last month, and feature a winter wedding, a first birthday, and some serious cuteness. Oh and a little bit of wine too.

In February we officially ended our winter wedding season with this gorgeous Adelmann Event Center wedding. Our favorite part about this one? It was the second bride from the same family that we had the honor of planning with. 

Another favorite part of the wedding was the style. This was definitely an organic-meets-vintage and sophistication. Our bride, Audrey, was all of that and more, too. 

In March I attended an event planner tour and tasting with Telaya Winery. This was the first time I'd been to what has affectionately become Boise's urban wine district and loved it. I think I see some serious wine club memberships in my near future. 

A certain very cute little guy celebrated his first birthday, with a My Lucky Charm party. It was a subtle nod to the holiday, without everything becoming all about the clover. Can't wait to share photos of the super cute party!

And this post wouldn't be complete without the little big man himself. Here's to April and spring (now if the rain would only go away..) and more photos for next month- Until then come over and say hi on Instagram!

Xo,

The Turning Point

You read and hear so often about those people that have “made it”. You see their accolades and their gorgeous creations. Their businesses seem to be well-oiled machines running a mile a minute all the while the key person stays in the spotlight, smiling and groomed to perfection. It’s this perception that I think makes so many up and comers stop coming up. Maybe it’s intimidation, lack of confidence or belief in themselves, or a combination of all of the above. Maybe even jealousy or envy?

What I’m realizing, especially in the last few years of business, is that most times what we’re not seeing is the journey leading up to the “made it”. Or, the turning point if you will. I’m learning that in order to be successful, you have to hit the turning point. The exact moment when you decide to succeed and create the definite plan to do so.

For me, I’m in the midst of the turning point. I’ve experienced a lot of growth and new clients in the past couple of years, and with that comes a whole new set of trials and tribulations! My team has been tested and my own personal confidence has definitely been tested to the max. It’s hard when you realize that something that is supposed to work (either by watching it work for others or having “the rules” ingrained in your head)….just isn’t. For you, that is. So this is my personal turning point- in business and in life. I’m finally accepting that I have to do things in a way that works for me- my creativity, my lifestyle, me. And any other way will do nothing but break me down because it’s not me.

So with that , my new goal is to simply live and breathe my business for me. Life is too short- my little bubby just turned one and I just can’t believe how fast it flies by- and if what I’m doing doesn’t make me happy, it’s just not worth it.

Have you hit your turning point yet? Or do you feel the tug like it’s coming up around the bend? If so I bet it’s getting close. Would love to hear about your turning point! Here’s to the happiest you and me!


Oh and PS: Stay tuned for a super exciting announcement this week....you won't want to miss this!

Xo,

Reflections | Engage!13 Part 2

I'm back with more reflections from last week's whirlwind trip to Engage!13 Montelucia Resort and Spa, and the video from days 2 & 3....the best of the two videos if you ask me. Day 2 was jam packed with breakfast, speakers, a break with bacon (not kidding), and then a dine-around evening followed by a dessert after-party. One of the most exciting parts? Every single time we left the room we came back to another surprise or gift...the swag alone at this summit was unreal. The dine-around dinner events were held at three different locations- a picturesque soon-to-be venue in Scottsdale, Restoration Hardware (so jealous of the sweet little plants that group received) in honor of Eddie Zaratsian's living lifestyle brand in conjunction with RH, and finally another group of Engagees stayed at the resort for their dinner. Each table featured one of the speakers, so it was nice to be up close and personal with some of the best of the best.

Day 3 started with a mega inspirational breakfast outside on the lawn (surrounded by and underneath breathtaking canopies by Raj Tents) and Simon T Bailey. From there we entered into a half-day of breakout sessions for the most amazing Q&A periods...can you imagine being able to ask anyone anything about their businesses? Finally, lunch in the courtyard followed by the gifting lounge (more presents!) before heading out to get ready for the grand Gala that evening. And the Gala? Amazing. Designed by Todd Fiscus and executed by some very talented individuals. I'll let the video do the talking about this event, because whatever I say here will not do it justice.

Without further adieu, my reflections on the last two days of Engage!13:

1. My favorite quote from Day 2 was from Matthew Robbins: "...Be your very best at the place you're at right now." So true, isn't it? Really had to let that one sink in.

2. Sylvia Weinstock is such an interesting and worldly woman. Hope our paths cross again someday.

3. The bands at Engage! are simply amazing. Never underestimate the power of a really talented live band.

4. On that note, the mixologists from The Grand Bevy were amazing to watch. Just goes to show how food and drink can really contribute to a grand experience!

Xo,

engage!13 | Montelucia - Days 2 & 3 from I Do Films on Vimeo.

Featured | Inspired Designer

So excited to have been featured on Inspired Designer today....Kristin is one of my dear friends and she holds a regular interview series on her blog each Thursday, so I was over the moon when she asked if I would be a part of it. After reading the entire interview, I have to say thank you to Kristin for the kind words! After all, Kristin is someone that has achieved so much in her craft and is someone I really hold with high regard. And in other news, can't believe we met 15 years ago... This makes me feel old! Take a peek at the full feature here, and have a lovely Thursday!

Xo,

September In Photos

It's officially fall! And I love fall...does anyone else feel like they get more done when the weather is a little colder? Give me a good cup of coffee, a great Pandora station, and watch me go. September was a big month for us- we officially moved (more on that later), had a few early fall weddings, and generally just had a good time. A few photos to reflect on the month....

I had a most awesome coffee date with a super dynamic lady...can't wait to share more of this in an upcoming blog post!

I got the house ready for Fall....so inspired by naturals this year. Think kale and cabbage. 

The ongoings of the office- definitely a work in progress! But I am pretty smitten with this wallpaper from Hygge & West. 

Our own Soirette Annie is getting married- this upcoming weekend! We couldn't let her get hitched without throwing her a Soiree bridal shower, complete with mimosa bar and Lily Jane's cupcakes. 

And finally, a photo of multitasking in progress- prepping a door for escort cards (in heels). 

Don't forget to follow me on Instagram, and keep in touch with us via hashtag #soireeweddingsboise! 

Happy Fall,

Baby H's Nursery on La Petite Peach!

First, how cute is the blog La Petite Peach? Second, how happy am I to see this little guy (and even a snapshot or two of big brother K) featured on it? I talked about his nursery inspiration and gushed a little after Ampersand Studios photographed it just five days after baby H was born, but seriously his nursery was hands down my favorite project of 2013. I wanted his room to be somewhere I loved being too! Be sure to head over to La Petite Peach to see the full feature! 

Xo, 

Lifestyle | Organization

I am always looking for cute new ways to organize my crazy busy life! Here are a few tips that I'm planning to try myself! Hope you find them helpful!

Idea Inspiration

I LOVE movies and have a ton! I get really sick of looking at all the DVDs lined up on my bookshelf though. It is NOT attractive. Try this cute and practical tip that can declutter any shelf!

Idea Inspiration

Love this idea, it's my favorite! This fab DIY enthusiast purchased these clipboards from a dollar store, then covered them in scrap wallpaper. There are some very stylish wrapping paper options out there as well. These can be used to organize to-do lists, recipes, bills, even photos or design inspiration! It's a cure all for the mess of papers on your desk!

Idea Inspiration

If you're a pack rat like me and refuse to get rid of the clothes that you're convinced you'll wear again, this tip may help you kick that habit. First flip all of your hangers backwards. After you've worn something face the hanger forward in its normal position. Anything left facing backward after a year? Say a few words in commemoration, then toss it into the donation pile:) Sometimes we just need a little motivation:)

Happy organizing!

Currently Smitten....

Smitten. It's my word. When something is deemed smitten, people know I'm into it. With the change of seasons, I've had my eye on a few ditties that I can't stop thinking about (and there may have been some acquisitions within this list already)...

This weekend also marks my 8th wedding anniversary to my hubs, and he is definitely first on the smitten list. And I'm fairly certain I post this same photo every year on my anniversary, but it's one of my favorites, so forgive the repetition. What are your plans for the long weekend? Camping? Fun in the sun? Whatever is on the agenda enjoy yourselves!

1. Jennifer Zeuner Wishbone Bracelet. With lots of new things on the horizon, once I laid my eyes on this number I knew this was just the good luck charm I needed.

2. Cabana Stripe Notebook. Have ya'll been over to see our friends Ampersand Studios and their new digs? Well you should, because not only will you see their pretty faces, but you can pick up stylish must-haves like this one from Sugar Paper.

3. Natural Cowhide Rug. It's not a new trend, but I am smitten with it.

4. Cleo Table Lamp. It's gold, slightly animalistic, and I love it.

Xo,

Lifestyle | Packing With Style

Even though the summer is coming to an end, I know there are a few of us out there who are trying to get those last minute warm weather vacays in before fall arrives. As I prepare for my own little weekend retreat I think to myself, there has to be a better way to pack! I found this excellent website called Buzz Feed which had some great ideas to ensure a stress free vacation.

1. Put some cotton balls or cotton pads in your compact powder cases so they won't break in transit.

2. Cover the top of anything that could leak with plastic wrap, then twists the lid back on to ensure that there won't be a mess when you arrive at your destination.

3. Pack a cute shoulder bag with all of the essentials so they are handy when you need them. If you are traveling by plane, take it as a carry-on. That way if they lose your baggage (it happens to the best of us) you have your make-up, face wash, toothbrush...ect. You will save a ton on a drugstore visit and you'll be fresh faced and ready to go, even if you don't have that cute sundress and flip-flops to change into.

I hope that these tips help you sit back and relax during your fun excursions!

Happy traveling!

July In Photos

After being on baby break, July was my true "wedding month" of 2013, and what a month it was! July was all about Idaho wineries and our second home when it comes to weddings, McCall and the Payette. Here are some photos from our whirlwind month as we head into August. We also got a chance to work with some friends that we haven't seen in a while- vendor lovelies, we'd love to know, what were some of your favorite moments of July?

Here's to a great week!

Xo,

Succulents and moss with vintage travel mixed in at a winery? Yes please!

The true meaning of multitasking!

Be Still our beating hearts with the view on the lake..

And my newfound love of the cornflower (how perfectly matched is its rustic with upscale?)

And the Fourth of July isn't the only occasion for fireworks. We loved shooting them off over Payette Lake!

Remember our Lucky In Love contest winners from last year? We finally celebrated their day at Woodriver Cellars Winery this month. 

What the Soirettes do when we have some downtime with good friends...

And baby H isn't the only true love in my life.. How about this firecracker? 

* Photos from Instagram, follow us!: 1-3 @brandi_reiland, 4-6 & 8, @kimmyann1, and 7 from @tanaphotography.