Ah, April! The sun's warmth whispers promises of brighter days ahead, coaxing tender shoots from the soil and beckoning life back into the world. With tulips dancing in full bloom and lilacs poised for their fragrant debut, the outdoors beckons like a cozy hug waiting to embrace us. Do you, like me, crave a little haven outdoors this time of year? A spot where, amidst the chaos of life, you can steal a moment to sip lemonade or tea, letting the world slow down just for a minute? Whether your retreat space is a sprawling porch or a quaint balcony, there's a treasure trove of possibilities to weave comfort and charm into your sanctuary where tranquility abounds. Bring some of your treasures from the interior into the great outdoors to create a wonderful place to be. I love the additions of some of our new arrivals on this New England porch!
Whenever I get intentional about creating or redecorating a new space I find myself thinking about the past and the near future. The past inspires me because there is so much allure and charm in how our great-grandmother’s lived. In many ways, the yesteryears were less hectic, and I think that there was so much natural rest in that simplicity. In thinking about the near future, I think about the whirlwind of school year endings—concerts, banquets, celebrations—they sneak up on us like a mischievous imp! That's why I'm on a mission to create a tranquil outdoor escape now, before the storm hits. A little nook where I can steal away for a breath of fresh air, with a book in hand or simply soaking in nature's symphony will be a welcomed gift to future me.
We're all juggling a hundred things at once, as a business owner and mother of three, I get it! So, if you're only able to skim through the photos for a quick burst of inspiration, no worries at all—life's like that sometimes! Here are the links to snag the items pictured on this New England porch: Woven Ice Bucket with Mango Wood; Medallion with Tassels Table Runner; Gilded Ring Top Lanterns; Decorative Dot Pitcher; Lina Linen Pillow; Italian Ruccus Spray; and Textured Stoneware Berry Baskets.
Now for those who are up for diving a little deeper with me, let's embark on a journey of intentionality and creativity together. It's truly our delight to be a part of your quest to craft spaces that not only provide comfort to weary souls, but also add a sprinkle of whimsy to your everyday life. So, grab a moment when you can, maybe during nap time or while waiting for the pasta to boil, and let's spend just 10 minutes together on a little slow-down exercise. Who knows, it might just uncover exactly what your outdoor sanctuary needs to truly shine. You don’t even need to grab a pen unless you want to. When it comes to decorating, the key lies in consciousness. It's not just about filling a space with objects; it's about purposefully curating an environment that speaks to our souls.
Consciousness, as a noun, refers to the state of being aware of and able to perceive one's surroundings, thoughts, emotions, and sensations. It encompasses the faculty of awareness and the subjective experience of being alive and aware. When it comes to decorating, it's not just about selecting pretty pieces to fill a space; it's about infusing each corner with intention. It's about creating a harmonious blend of elements that reflect not only our personal tastes but also our innermost values. By approaching decorating with mindfulness, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, delving deep to uncover the essence of our true expression. With each choice of color, texture, and decor item, we weave together a narrative that speaks volumes about who we are and what we hold dear. It's through this process of conscious styling that we breathe life into our spaces, transforming them into vibrant reflections of our authentic selves. What could feel more beautiful than that? Let's get started!
1. First, set the mood. Light a candle and enjoy some peaceful background music: Spring Whispers by Ross Boti is a newer instrumental piece I’m really enjoying. Linked for you to enjoy as well.
2. Find some inspiration in poetry about spring. A few favorites I like are: Peace by Sarah Teasdale; The Peace of Wild Things by Wendell Berry. Perhaps a poetry book might make a nice addition to your outdoor space and serve as a reminder to slow down and savor the moment.
3. Consider inspiration from “the past” and reflect on the emotions stirred by paintings, showcasing what was cherished as beautiful in bygone eras. Are there any enduring elements you could incorporate into your outdoor sanctuary? Perhaps a classic vase brimming with blooms or an elegant lantern casting a gentle glow as twilight descends. For some dreamy inspiration, consider searching the phrase "impressionist terrace" on Pinterest.
4. Jot down (mentally if you still haven’t found a pen) what would truly allow you to relax while in your outdoor oasis, and what decor would make you feel at peace while enjoying your special spot. For me, outdoor curtains provide some privacy as well as shade from the sun, but perhaps even more importantly, they sway in the breeze and something about that gentle movement really soothes me. I just put up some similar outdoor curtains to the ones on this New England porch and I'm loving them.
5. Lastly, think of your bodily comfort. Would it serve you to add a pillow, blanket, or small table or tray to hold a refreshing drink? By gathering these essentials now, you'll be poised to revel in comfort when the hustle and bustle of the busy season begins.
As you embark on creating your outdoor oasis, remember that it's not just about the physical elements but also about nurturing your soul and finding moments of peace amidst life's busyness. Whether it's the gentle sway of curtains in the breeze, the sparkle of a pretty lantern glow, or the comfort of a soft pillow, may your cozy retreat become a haven where you can recharge and reconnect with yourself and nature. Take the time to slow down, breathe deeply, and savor the simple joys that surround you. May your outdoor oasis bring you moments of tranquility and delight throughout the seasons.
Happy decorating, friends!
Sarah
