Gingham and Pearl

Striped Straws, Set of 8Ice cream lovers know how important it is to enjoy frosty treats right down to the last delicious drop—a given with our playful striped straws. Perfect for parties and everyday fun, these sturdy, reusable straws are great for milkshakes, smoothies, sodas and other cool, refreshing beverages. Giant Star Cookie CutterFor a … More My 2014 July 4th All American RED WHITE & BLUE Picks from Williams -Sonoma for decorating, dining, eating, crafting and of course Fireworking!

This quick folding trick helps you get a handle on picnic wines, then yields a place to lay your outdoor feast. Use a print in a seasonal hue and your set for a picnic anytime of year! 1. Start with a square tablecloth that’s at least 36 inches. Lay it right side down. Place one … More Picnic Crafts ~ Tablecloth Bottle Wrap

Patriotic String Lights ~ Indoor-outdoor lights take a shine to the red, white and blue multicolored mini globes that light up the festive porch or patio. Patriotic Flag Banner ~ Festive banner flies the colors in red, white and blue stripes and fireworks patterned on 100% cotton flags strung on a band of red. Reusable … More My 2014 July 4th All American RED WHITE & BLUE Picks from Crate & Barrel for decorating, dining, eating, crafting and of course Fireworking!

Sprucing up your deck, patio, or yard just got an inspirational boost, thanks to these projects you can do yourself. They range from small and simple to more intricate and involved, and all are worthwhile to make the outdoors more livable and lively come spring. Wooden pallets are easy to come by on the cheap … More Do-It-Yourself Outdoor Project Ideas

Fourth of July Burlap Stars ~ Accented with patriotic stripes, our burlap stars add a casual yet festive accent to outdoor parties. Hang them in doorways or along a walkway. Painted American Flag ~ This substantial wooden flag is made entirely of recycled pine and then painted for a rustic finish. Galvanized Metal Star Tiered … More My 2014 July 4th All American RED WHITE & BLUE Picks from Pottery Barn for decorating, dining, eating, crafting and of course Fireworking!

When in doubt, tradition is a good guide to selecting a front door that endures and offers curb appeal. Here, stylish side lights mimic the central front door. If the exterior of your home is painted or stained a darker color, consider a lighter door for a pop of brightness. For neutral-theme exteriors, play with … More Exterior Door {Front and Back} Ideas

Although small in square footage, this California backyard was renovated to beef up the space’s function and style. Converting the yard into a patio created an ultimate outdoor gathering space for the homeowners. Take a cue from this ultimate patio on how to use your outdoor living space wisely. Patio Space Planning To eliminate wasted … More How To Maximize a Small Patio

Outdoor Living…..Porches, whether front porches, back porches, or of the wrap-around variety, add plenty of charm and function to a home’s facade. Treat this outdoor room like you would an indoor living room: outfit it with comfy, yet weather-proof furniture and fun accessories. Swing SetA swing bed is a unique piece of furniture that adds … More Pretty Porches Updates

Two petite galvanized buckets connected by a crosspiece and simple handle are the perfect planting place for perennial Dianthus, or pinks. Spur Dianthus to send up a second flush of blooms by shearing off spent flowers. The plants will bloom well into summer when grown in part shade to full sun and watered regularly. Plum-and-white … More Large Spring Container Gardens ~ Colorful Container Plantings Celebrate the Start of the Gardening Season