Best Flower Subscription in Denver: Fern and Bloom

An Exclusive Interview with Katie Carrera, Owner of Fern and Bloom

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Katie Carrera, OWNER OF Fern and Bloom

When it comes to lifting up your home’s vibe or sending some love to someone, there’s no comparison to that fresh flowers feeling. Fern and Bloom is a full-service floral shop providing lush and beautiful designs for weddings, elopements, events, businesses and florals for every occasion. In the heart of Denver, Colorado, Fern and Bloom also is a full retail shop with a selection of plants and unique curated gift items. For the Best Flower Subscription in Denver, look no further than Fern and Bloom, offering seasonal, locally grown, and beautiful monthly or weekly flower subscriptions. We sat down with the owner of Fern and Bloom, Katie Carrera, who shared her passion for flowers, design, and all things community.

Katie Carrera, OWNER OF Fern and Bloom

Interview with Katie Carrera, Owner of Fern and Bloom

Q: How did Fern and Bloom begin?

Katie Carrera: “I started in the floral industry over 20 years ago. I have worked in small retail environments as well as freelance designer for larger scale events. My mission in starting Fern and Bloom has been to be a part of the everyday community. I’ve been a Denver local my whole life. It is a dream come true to have a business in the neighborhood I call home. Having clients that I get to know through all their life milestones is very special to me - from engagement to wedding to baby shower and all the birthdays.

Q: You’re committed to supporting local farms, artists and women-owned businesses.

Katie Carrera: “Yes! When I opened, I wanted to build a business with a foundation of supporting other local women-owned businesses so we can grown and thrive together. It’s also important to give referrals in this industry and we strive to do that as often as possible. When buying flowers during Colorado growing season, we offer locally grown flowers from a wide net of Colorado-based farms.”

FERN AND BLOOM

Q: How does Fern and Bloom’s Weekly or Monthly Flower Subscription work?

Katie Carrera: “It can be a “choose your own adventure” here! We can customize it to fit the needs of each client. I would say our most popular are a weekly or bi-weekly floral arrangement of seasonal flowers. We can either deliver locally or have it in-store for pick-up. Most clients spend between $65-$100 for blooms. We have online options you can start that will charge on a monthly basis or we can bill as we go. We offer both delivery available locally within our zip code range and pickup in store.

Q: Can you customize or personalize your Weekly or Monthly Flower Subscription?

Katie Carrera: “Yes. We recommend giving us a call and we can discuss the options that work best for the clients needs.”

Q: Do the Weekly or Monthly Flower Subscriptions feature seasonal flowers?

Katie Carrera: “Yes. We recommend letting our talented designers create something beautifully-selected from what is prime of the season. If you have special requests such as a love for purple, moody vibes or fragrant, etc., we are happy to note them.”

Q: How can people get a Weekly or Monthly Flower Subscription from Fern and Bloom?

Katie Carrera: “The best option is to give us a call to chat over the details. We still love to talk IRL or send us an email if you’re shy! Also, we offer options on our online shop.” 

FERN AND BLOOM

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Fern and Bloom

• Address: 4014 Tennyson St. Denver, CO 80212 

• Phone: (303) 477-7877

• Email: hello@fernandbloomdenver.com

• Website: https://www.fernandbloomdenver.com

• Weekly or Monthly Flower Subscription: https://www.fernandbloomdenver.com/shop-1

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fernandbloomdenver/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fernandbloomdenver

The Ultimate Gift Guide for Lovers

xoxo

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Whether you’re in a serious relationship or your new boy from Hinge has his 36th birthday coming up this weekend, choosing a gift for your significant other is no walk in the park. As if there weren’t enough emotions involved, here comes the pressure of nailing a gift for the person you just might care about the most in this world. I’m here to say it is totally normal for it to feel like a stressful experience when in the back of your head you’re thinking you should have this unrealistic, filtered shopping experience of pure glee. It’s ok if it doesn’t start that way, but how about let’s make it end that way? 

As far as the stress, according to Shawn M. Burn Ph.D., gift-giving anxiety is something where worrying obsessively over choosing the right gift occurs rather than accepting that we only have so much control over how other people respond to and experience our gift. If you are experiencing gift-giving anxiety, find comfort in the fact that you are giving out of good intentions to someone you love. This should be a delightful, if not fun experience for you so we’ve compiled various ways to choose a gift for your significant other. Remember the big picture, all the anxiety that may come with gift giving doesn’t change the fact that you truly want to get them something special so they know how much you care about them. You’re already winning, sis.

Snoop Gift Guides

If you don’t know where to start, consider checking out gift guides. There’s a gift guide for everyone and so many out there that it’s best to be as specific as possible when searching for a guide all about your guy. Gift guides can be a great way to snag ideas or even find the perfect gift. For example, Instyle compiled The Best Holiday Gifts for the Wellness Buff in Your Life and 15 Fancy Valentine’s Day Gifts Every Fashionista Will Love. Remember, gift guides can be as generic or specific to your man or gf depending on your search so whether your dude is into gaming or your significant other loves coffee table books, there is a gift guide out there for them. You just have to find it.

Love Language

Looking for the perfect gift to show your girlfriend she’s “the one?” Consider her love language. Gary Chapman’s book The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate outlines five ways that you and your significant other experience romance and love. The five love languages are acts of service, gift-giving, physical touch, quality time, and words of affirmation. If you’ve got the time, I recommend snuggling up this weekend with this book and grasping onto Chapman’s bits of love wisdom. You’ll learn a lot not only about your significant other’s love language but your own needs and love language which is just as important. 

No idea what your love language is let alone your boyfriend’s love language and no time to read the book? Take this quiz to discover your love language and ultimately the greatest gift. Now that you know your love language, get creative in giving a thoughtful gift. If your girlfriend’s love language is quality time, scoop her up on your white horse and carry her off to Breckenridge for a weekend of snowboarding or a little less expensive, downtown to your favorite local restaurant and follow up with ice skating. Figuring out his or her love language can be your key to gifting the perfect gift. If their love language is gift-giving, peek the sections “Inexpensive but Still Dope” and “Expensive Gifting.” Say your boo’s love language is acts of service. Take notice of what you could do to make their lives less stressful then gift it. If it’s car insurance that has your girl pulling her hair out, offer to pay it for a couple of months. Is he trying to shake his dad bod? Gift him an Apple Watch that will be a handy gadget on his journey. 

If their love language is words of affirmation, check out “Personalized Items” and “Get Creative” sections. Their love language is physical touch? Treat your significant other to an at-home spa day and pull out all the works. 

No matter the love language, there is a gift to match their vibration.  Quiet down to pick up on non-verbal cues, your partner’s feelings, and clarity for your own. Then just go for it and ask them to take the love language quiz with you. You can unveil after you give the gift that this was your strategy or we can keep it between us.

Inexpensive but Still Dope

By no means do you have to break the bank to get a romantic gift for your significant other. Sometimes the most thoughtful, sweetest gifts to give and receive are the ones where we have to get creative in giving because it involves a memento or memorable experience. Instead of designer, think memorable experience. We want her belly laughing, ugly crying, or speechless by the end of this gift-giving experience. 

So if you have a gift spending limit, check out the “Intimacy Deck” by Best Self Co. which is 150 cards with awesome prompts to get the conversation going and remind you why you’re so in love in the first place. Another great activity for bae’s gift day is a couple journal that lasts for three years and is full of quick Q&As so you can log all the memories you have with each other. Also, consider getting a bucket booklist so you can create a bucket booklist together revolving around your relationship. To spice up date night, snag this 100 Dates Bucket List Scratch Poster from Amazon. And, guys, flowers and plants never go out of style and guarantee a smile.

Charitable Giving

If you’re looking to come together as a couple, consider giving to a charity. A study finds that when it comes to charitable giving, most couples find common ground. Why is that? Elaine Martyn, vice president of Fidelity Charitable’s Private Donor Group says “With household finances, it often feels like you make the money, you save it and you spend it—those are the only three actions. But with giving, there’s a whole dialogue around why you’re doing what you’re doing and how you got there. There is an opportunity to talk about your values and what you believe and what you share.”

If you’ve been with your hubs for a long time, you may be in a spot where you’re thinking you aren’t agreeing on anything why add another to the list. The point of charitable giving is that it actually will be a gift to you and your spouse of reconciliation, a re-lit flame, or surrendering again to each other. You might just have to try it to believe it. 

Think of all the many causes you potentially could give to as a gift for bae: the environment, pet shelters, underprivileged children, and more. Maybe you both are passionate about mental health services. You could make a donation in your significant other’s name and it would be an amazing feeling to give the gift that keeps on giving. 

There are all sorts of brands out there that donate a portion of the proceeds of an item to a charity as well. Take thisKennebunk Bliss Plush Throw from Nordstrom. Their portion of the proceeds is donated to Operation Warm, an organization that provides winter coats to those in need. Or what about this cute ban.do necklace that supports Girls Inc., a nonprofit encouraging young girls to be just as ambitious, bold, and inspiring as she is? The list goes on and on. And so does the giving.

Personalized Items

This is the opportunity to get personal and make some special memories. Personalized gifts are a great way to take your gift giving to the next level. So if your relationship could use going to the next level, check out awesome gifts that let you choose one word about your lovely significant other and then write out a short note on why you chose that word. She won’t take that bracelet off. 

Check out this designer, engravable Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Shine Lipstick Balm. She will fawn. Take a risk and create your own fragrance with your own scent kit, messaging and branding at WAFT. Set the mood with Uncommon Good’s Long-distance Friendship Lamp across town or across the world with these in-sync lamps which sounds amazing. Custom Pet Portrait? Raises hand. In love with an adventurer? Slide bae a custom Herschel Little America Backpack. The list truly does go on and on, just like that newfound love so make this gift a personal one.

GUCCI Men's Interlocking G Rubber Slide Sandals

Expensive Gifting

Let’s go all out, have some fun, shall we? Go for it without looking like you’re trying too hard with a sleek, timeless classic item for your guy. Believe me, he will be living in these GUCCI Men's Interlocking G Rubber Slide Sandals. The next one is for when you’ve waited too long to say “I love you,” have some making up to do and need to say those words with every ounce of meaning in them. Say hello to the Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM. Go with the iconic, original Louis Vuitton Monogram pattern. I’m linking it so you know what it looks like and well aware that it is sold out online. Put in work and go to the store. Not near one? Drive baby, drive. I’m telling you from experience, it is so worth it. Also, those two little letters are very important and very expensive but don’t skimp! GM means the largest Louis Vuitton Neverfull and babe needs the biggest. 

I’m giving away a real present now and you’ve read this far so my gift is coming happily to you. In the certain spheres,  you usually don’t give away what perfume or cologne you wear unless you’re kind. It’s like giving away your true secret to success, extra confidential for some. I thought I was wearing one of the best perfumes until a dear friend of mine who is high up in the luxury fragrance world did what few do. He told me the very best cologne for men and very best perfume for women. Here goes! Also, get ready to drop some cheddar. For the women, Creed Aventus For Her by far takes the cake. It is absolutely irresistible. It’s a fresh/floral fragrance but words can’t capture the smell because it truly is just experience. Creed ends the description with the line, “To be near her is to feel the presence of greatness.” Hashtag chills. For the men, Tom Ford Santal Blush dominates at the top. This attractive, mesmerizing scent is a textured fusion of creamy sandalwood and exotic eastern spices enhanced with intoxicating florals and sumptuous woods to create the perfect modern earthiness. Packaging is its nude juice and blush color just “as sensual as a beautifully contoured nude face.” I gave them to you hot, do it what you want but if you trust me, you’ll know real quick why these are the industry’s top, best-kept secrets. 

Creative Gifts

If you’ve been together for years and feel like you’re gifted out, it may be time to get creative. I’m saying really thinking outside-of-the-box. How about you set your hot date up with a couples photoshoot? I’m not talking boudoir, even though if that’s y’all’s jam, no judgement. I’m talking hire an awesome, local professional photographer, go shopping and pay for bae, get her makeup and hair done and choose a gorgeous location. It’s so much fun, and you come out with amazing photos for the gram, for like a year, laughing face, hashtag no shame.

Instead of cooking for her, hire a professional chef to come to your place, set the mood and fine-dine like people ought to. Even if you aren’t a good writer, one of the sweetest, most endearing gifts people get is truly thoughtful love letters and love notes. It puts Fendi to shame. Actually take that back, nothing puts Fendi to shame, but you get where I was going with that. Plan a short day-trip to somewhere and immerse yourselves in the culture for a weekend. It’s a fun ride. If you sing or play guitar, you could write that song you owe him or you could hire a local musician to collaborate with on writing a song for him together. That’s the true chart topper. Splurge on a bottle of wine and tell her y’all are watching Netflix only to turn on the television and have your recorded video message about how grateful you are for her and why you love her start playing. Cue the waterworks.

Heartfelt Gifts

I hope you’ve snagged either an idea or excitement for gifting your special occasion for your significant other. One of the most important things is to remember it really is all about the love that you share and to use this gift as a way to express that love.

The great, Brené Brown said, “I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued: when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.”

Do you want a relationship where you are cherished and can give and receive without judgement? One where you derive sustenance and strength from the relationship? This is a whole other topic for a whole other day but the point is, that relationships are hard work. This special occasion should be a joyous celebration for you two so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to find the perfect gift rather focus your attention on creating that energy between you two where they feel seen, heard and valued. Gift to that.

With the big picture in mind, a litany of ideas and inspo for choosing a gift for your significant other, and a confidence in your connection, you are sure to succeed this special occasion. If your intentions are pure and you wish the best for your future hubs, then take a cue from me and be bold in the way you give and that is to give with your whole heart. Because really if you’re going to do it, go all the way. Step into yourself, listen to what is speaking to you or jumped out at you from this article and be fearless in your love, in your decisions, and in your gift-giving to your significant other. You got this.

Pool SZN Accessories

WAVY VIBES

Pool SZN Accessories

Whether you plan on laying out with girlfriends at your apartment’s pool all summer or spending time basking in the sun at one of Miami’s hottest pools, this summer calls for epic pool accessories. Amp up your poolside look and find out where to score this season’s brightest pool accessories and more.

Versace Gold 'Crete de Fleur' Inflatable Pool Float; $250

Frontgate Butterfly Float; $129

FUNBOY Retro Phone Floatie; $49

Sunnylife Beach Sounds Speaker; $65

Sunnylife Underwater Camera; $29

Sunnylife Beach Cooler Box Sounds Speaker; $160

5 Content Creation Tips For Small Business Owners

BECAUSE IT’S ALL ABOUT THE #BRAND

As a small business owner, your company is your brand. A brand is those first thoughts you think when you hear a person or company’s name. Those are important ones because they often dictate whether the consumer will engage with your brand and convert by purchasing your product or service.

Starting with a brand and social media strategy is critical because you want to have a foundation because it will be the consistent core and essence of everything you do on social media. Building your brand foundation will set you up for success in content creation. You can start with a brand audit and research to see where you currently are, then create brand elements and your brand touchpoints. Then, you will be ready for launch (or pre-launch) on social media.

Now that your brand foundation is in place, let’s dive into content creation tips for small businesses.

1. Brand Photoshoot

A brand photoshoot goes way beyond an updated headshot. It is a creative lifestyle photoshoot that tells your brand story through aesthetically pleasing, high-definition photography and videography. These could be candid shots of you working from your home office or more staged scenes within your store that display your brand message. And don’t forget to get that updated headshot too!

These creative brand photo and video shoots really bring your brand to life. Then, the photos and videos are used across your marketing collateral including social media. Bring a couple different outfits to batch content. From there, you can schedule your social media content calendar with beautiful, high-quality visuals that represent your small business.

2. Social Media Strategy

It’s important to have a social media strategy that outlines your goals, target audience, content plan, platforms you choose to post on and it should all be aligned with your brand message. Go in depth on how you are going to achieve your social media goals by creating, posting, engaging, listening, monitoring and of course, interacting with others. Think about why these goals and strategies will improve your business. Be sure to track and monitor your social media so you know how you actually are reaching your goals which will help you avoid burnout and keep you motivated.

3. Influencer Marketing

Chances are if you’re a local, small business you have influencers within your community. It’s important to choose who represents your brand wisely and it might take some research and searching to find one, few or many (dependent upon your social media strategy plan) influencers within your niche, town or city. But once you do there are plenty of ways to utilize this popular-for-a-reason marketing trend. From social media account takeovers to brand ambassadors to trade or paid campaigns, influencer marketing is no question effective for your business and will make your feeds feel fresh.

4. Content Marketing

Another popular-for-a-reason marketing strategy is content marketing and while it can be done on social media, we tend to think of blogs, articles, webinars and content-rich, valuable resources for this category. Your small business can benefit greatly from content marketing. People don’t want to be sold to; they want to connect with your business and learn or gain something from it.

Content marketing is the process of specific content creation and distribution to a targeted audience. This content is viewed as educational and typically perceived as valuable information. In this type of marketing, the content is a contribution which in turn builds brand awareness and generates leads which turn into sales.

5. Content Themes

There are many apps and tools available to create a content calendar. But what content will be included on that calendar? That’s where content themes come in. Here are a few content themes to promote your business.

• Behind-The-Scenes

• Client Testimonial

• Creative Brand Photoshoot Images and Video

• Giveaway

• Personal Story

• Product or Service Promotional Image or Video

• Meet The Team

• Quotes

• Fun Facts

• Local Events

The list goes on and on! Get creative and remember, always be authentic!

Follow these content creation tips and strategies to up your social media game and grow your small business.

For social media marketing services, contact aok@aoksocial.com.

Top 5 Classic Designer Fashion Items

CLASSIC. PERFECT. NIIIIICE.

Burberry Vintage Check Stretch Cotton Tie-waist Shirt Dress; $700

Bring. It. Back.

Tiffany & Co. Heart Tag Toggle Necklace; $650

Heart eyes.

LOUIS VUITTON NEW WAVE CHAIN BAG MM

GOAT.

Creed Aventus For Her; $270

Some things never change, tho.

Birkenstock Arizona; $135

Modern Boho Decor Gift Guide

Gift Guide to Modern Boho Decor

Urban Outfitters Skye Velvet Duvet Cover

To shop: $99.00 - $144.00; urbanoutfitters.com

Urban Outfitters T-Shirt Jersey Duvet Cover

To shop: $79.00 - $149.00; urbanoutfitters.com

Urban Outfitters Knit Floor Pillow

To shop: $49.00; urbanoutfitters.com

Bungalow Rose Causglen Power Loom Light Pink Rug

To shop: $199.99; wayfair.com

How To Improve Your Sleep

SWEET DREAMS

This post is sponsored by VitalSleep.

You know those people who have perfect circadian clocks? Or my sweet pup for instance. The sun goes down, and to sleep they go and when they rise, this beautiful glow. For those who have trouble sleeping for whatever reason, and there are many, here are some ways to improve your sleep quality in hopes of a good night’s rest and a morning glow.

Quick Tips To Better Sleep

• Create a sleep routine

• Stick to your sleep schedule

• Sleep in a cool temperature, dark room and quiet environment (no purple gnite neon lights allowed, no matter how cute)

• Avoid caffeine late at night

• Physical activity during the day time, not too close to your bedtime though

• Stop using electronics two hours before bed

• Destress before bed whether that’s reading, journaling, praying, meditating, zoning out on Netflix or taking a bubble bath (you do you)

Reclaim A Good Night’s Sleep

Try VitalSleep and reclaim a good night's sleep. VitalSleep is a custom-molded and adjustable, anti-snoring mouthpiece that can improve the way you sleep. Unlike other devices, VitalSleep's design targets the main cause of snoring, which is a partial obstruction of the airway.

Here's how VitalSleep works: VitalSleep holds your lower jaw and tongue forward to open the airway. It's patented Accu-adjust system allows for calibrated jaw positioning based on your snoring intensity. It easily molds to your teeth for a personalized and comfortable fit.

Located in New Jersey, VitalSleep’s mission is to help people achieve quiet, restful sleep and improve their quality of sleep and lifestyle. According to VitalSleep, you should have your dentist or medical doctor perform a complete oral health assessment to ensure the suitability of VitalSleep.

Sleep is such an important part of your health. For me, getting a quality good night of sleep can set me up to have a successful day and at least feel energized enough to accomplish the day’s tasks. If you are losing sleep due to snoring, you’re missing out on all of the benefits of a restful night’s sleep. Save 10% off VitalSleep using the code ALLISONGAPPA at https://www.vitalsleep.com!

For all things wellness, beauty and lifestyle, be sure to check back on the blog for fresh, new content!

5 Best Vegan Bags

FOR THE LOVE OF ANIMALS

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Stomach twist a bit when you’re scrolling designer purses only to see what that beautiful bag is made of? Not so beautiful anymore, huh. So, we’ve complied a list of just as fabulous, slightly more daring and way more caring bags that are vegan and completely harm-free to those animals we all know and should love a lot more. But, amiright?

If your date back to the office is scheduled and you’ve been meaning to finally get a bag that truly carries your huge MacBook Pro and 50 ban.do notebooks, then this my gf is the backpack for you. Meet Matt & Nat’s Loom Vegan Backpack.

Take me to space, though. Something extraterrestrial is happening with this Caro Vegan Wristlet Starlight.

DOING WHAT YOU LIKE IS FREEDOM

LIKING WHAT YOU DO IS HAPPINESS

Dear Drew by Drew Barrymore on The Go Petit Vegan Leather Rainbow Tote Bag

Stella McCartney Falabella Fold-Over Tote

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Trending Tie-Dye Pajama Sets

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Shop Now: Tie-dye PJ Tee and Shorts Set, $14.94; ardene.com

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Shop Now: Plush Tie Dye PJ + Eyemask Set, $159; shopbop.com

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Shop Now: PJ Salvage Tie-Dye Days Lounge Top, $41; neimanmarcus.com

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Shop Now: Tie Dye Haze PJ Set, $68; www.shopbop.com

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Shop Now: Emerson Road Tie Dye Haze Short PJ Set, $68; shopbop.com

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Shop Now: Aqua Sleep Peachy Tie-Dyed Pajama Set, $98; bloomingdales.com

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Shop Now: Tie-dye PJ Tee and Shorts Set, $14.94; ardene.com

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Shop Now: Tie Dye Stripe Logo Dolman Pajama Top, $44; nordstrom.com

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DIY: Sustainable Garden Fence

Guest Blogger: Sarah Hileman

If you’re a homeowner or renter with yard space, and you’re considering a minimalist approach to constructing a garden plot (especially if you have dogs who might love to romp through said plot) I’ve got a solution. I generally have an unkempt pile of sticks somewhere in my yard, and I’ve found them to be useful in such gardening situations. Recently, I’ve started to created garden space in the shared area that my dogs use. They certainly are not mindful of where they execute their zoomies, but I’ve found that creating some barriers is effective in keeping them out of unwanted spaces. In lieu of building raised beds (which would require the purchase of additional soil), I’ve opted for a less intensive, cost effective approach.

This is the method I’ve adopted in my garden creating:

1. Find the space you need

If you’re constructing a fence, make sure the area within the fence is accessible (i.e. can you bend over and reach your plants?). I opted to only make my plot a few feet deep so that I can still access the area. I measured uniformly out from the fence, dug a furrow marking the boundary, and then turned over the topsoil with a shovel (the dogs were of no help).

2. Gather Sticks

I wasn’t very picky about this, and you can create a more curated fence by selecting straight, non-branched specimens. I recommend finding ones that are bigger than the diameter of your thumb, or about an inch thick. These should be at least two-three feet tall depending on how high you want your fence. Placing the sticks in the ground is easier with soft earth, so if you have the luxury of doing this after a rainstorm, that will help. Additionally, you can use trimmers to clip the bottoms of the sticks into points. Using a screwdriver or dandelion tool to make an initial hole in the ground may also improve this step. Push or twist your sticks into the ground so that they are firmly in place—the spacing is up to you. This is probably the most important step. Now the main foundation for your garden fence is complete!

3. Weave-in smaller sticks to the base of the fence

This is called wattle. Weaving the wattle was the trickiest part of all. I recommend much smaller in diameter, greener (bendy) sticks of three feet or less in length. Basically you brace the larger end of a wattle stick against one of the fence post sticks, and you work the rest of the wattle in front of and behind (in this pattern) the next sticks. Then move to the next fence post stick, and repeat the same pattern. The next picture illustrates what this will look like:

I continued with this for only a few inches of height. This also provided stability for the base of the fence, although it was time consuming. Again, for a more curated look, make sure your wattle sticks are straight and devoid of small branches. You can experiment with weaving through multiple sticks at the same time or skipping fence post sticks to create a different weaving pattern.

Ok, now comes the fun part! I like to top off my fences with yarn for a nice personalized spin. I chose to use rainbow colors to add an artistic touch. Generally I try to use cotton or other natural yarn, so that it can eventually end up in my compost pile. Microplastics are a huge issue right now, and I try to avoid acrylic yarn, but use whatever you have available! To weave the yarn, I recommend tying one end to the end of your stick fence, and then I twist the yarn around each stick instead of weaving it in front and behind as done with the wattle. This can help the yarn to stay anchored better.

Here is my final product:

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You can follow Sarah Hileman on Instagram @CurbsideCollective. To shop Sarah’s up-cycled goods, check out her Etsy shop at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MadelineHatterCo.

Work From Home Tips On Creating A Productive Space

This post is sponsored by Ergo21.

WFH

If you’re working from home for the first time, it can be a big adjustment. Being productive while WFH includes many different aspects. Here are a couple of products to help your new routine go smoother as you take on your workday.

Lap Desk

Give a lap desk a try for the endless number of Zoom meetings in the foreseeable future. It can be a great product for students too. With the rave-reviews and awesome prices, it’s worth checking out if you’re working from home, even if you have a regular desk. You might be surprised how much you use it. There are a lot of good brands out there like this Lap Gear to Honey-Can-Do lap desk for under $20.

Flowers & Plants

Breathe some fresh air with a splash of healthy, live greenery. This Lulu & Georgia potted ZZ plant doubles as an air purifier in contemporary and modern spaces, with a jaw-dropping ceramic pot and silky leaves that will leave you smiling and grinding away as you get back to working from home.

*Important note: ZZ plants are not pet-friendly and are toxic to cats and dogs. Opt for a cute ponytail palm instead that’s pet-friendly and boho-everything. Please use pet-friendly plants only in your house which are easy to find with a simple google search. Your pet’s health and wellness is very important during this time!

Buy yourself some flowers, please. My favorite flower delivery company is a startup floral subscription company, BloomsyBox.com offering fresh handpicked bouquets on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis from sustainable farms around the globe. Each stem shipped is hand-picked and cut two to four days before you receive them! All their farms are eco-friendly Rainforest Alliance certified, which I think is awesome.

Not only are flowers great for your desk or somewhere in your office space, but they will brighten up any area of your home.

Framebridge

Be Creative

When you work from home, you have the all-out ability to create a space that truly motivates you. Start with implementing items that make you happy and worry about making it look good for the ‘gram later. This is about tapping into creating a space that inspires you. It’s crazy how that amazing poster of your favorite singer from the ‘80s reminds you to keep pushing for those dreams. So buy flowers year-round, write your favorite verses and quotes on sticky notes and hang up a picture that will make you smile everyday. Then go slay your workday.

Invest in Comfort

Whether I’m working from home, which requires extensive computer work, or I’m settling down for the day with some new episodes of the latest show a friend recommended, I love my Ergo21 Seat Cushion. Not only is it super comfortable but it helps alleviate the aches and pains that come from sitting for an extended period of time. The Ergo21 Seat Cushions are one of the most popular seat cushions for office chairs. And with modern chairs becoming increasingly uncomfortable, this is the perfect solution. With multiple other uses like Netflix-binges, long road trips with friends or zooming on mobility scooters, it’s a favorite among users and according to Ergo21 especially for those who suffer from back pain. Since my dad suffers from back pain, he tested out the durable Ergo21 Seat Cushions that have LiquiCell Technology. He loves it and uses it every day for support for his back for relieving aches and pains. It also promotes circulation and better posture.

Great for your home and working from home, the Ergo21 Seat Cushion is a great investment in making sure your environment is a comfortable, productive and functional space.

Declutter

By organizing and decluttering your work space and home for that matter, you can boost your productivity and reduce stress with a clean space. I didn’t say it was easy work, but if and when you have the time, it’s beneficial to spend that time spring cleaning and organizing starting with your home office.

Routine

It’s important to establish a routine to create a balance when working from home including waking up and getting ready for your day, having breakfast and lunch breaks, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and shutting down your electronics at the end of your day. Not only is it beneficial to take breaks, but it’s also important to get outside, so grab the leash, call your pup and slip on your sneakers for however many walks that little guy or girl wants to go on because it will be great for you too! It can be tough adjusting to a new routine of working from home so give yourself time to get used to it. It also might take time creating a space to stay productive while WFH but it will be worth it!

5 Things To Do At Home

1. Paint Party!

   Fresh coat, check.

2. Create a photo book with Mixbook!

Right now, you can get 50% off all their fun, entertaining products!

3. Crafting Sessions

Bluprint is offering free online craft classes for you, your fam and friends up to April 16th!

4. Get Started on Etsy

Learn to launch and market your business on Creative Live! I love their online classes and wrote about one of Mel Robbins’ classes here.

5. Update Your Content Calendar

Make revising and planning easier with Tailwind and take advantage of their free Instagram training going on now.

Loungewear Edit

Balenciaga

Logo faux shearling slides

Missguided

Sean John X Missguided White Signature Script 90S Oversized Joggers

Adidas 

Adicolor loungewear hoodie

Amazon

ZESICA Women's Waffle Knit Pajama Set Short Sleeve Top and Shorts

DANIELLE GUIZIO

DG Sweatsuit

Mudroom Makeover: Home Improvement Project

The mudroom is in the spotlight with interior designers and homeowners because it’s often the first sight guest see when entering a home with a modern mudroom. If you could use another home improvement project, then get dirty and tackle your mudroom with some shiny, new upgrades.

Photo: ALISON PICKART

Natural Light

By utilizing as much natural light as possible, it will bring the outdoors, in and create a seamless flow from the outside, through the mudroom and to the next room. It will lift the mood of this area and the sense of invitation will usher your family or friends right in. Consider using glass doors, a skylight and strong floors with bright throws and a light gray splash of paint for the walls to get the look.

Photo: Dana Webber Design Group

Upgrade Your Storage

Whether it’s built-in benches, a hanging shelf or storage nooks to hang jackets, rethink your mudroom to get your entryway organized. A built-in bench is a stylish and practical spot to take your shoes off but also use for extra storage. Incorporate cute baskets to stay organized on lower and higher levels of your mudroom.

Photo: Nalle’s House

Fresh Paint Job

New paint, new shine! Or at least a touch up if you’re going all out in the home project department. This instantly changes the look and mood of your mudroom. Put a little spring in your step with bright colors like yellow or pink paint and decorate according to the rest of your home’s style. Using clean white accents with pops of color will provide a perfect segue to the rest of the house.

Mix Function & Style

From lighting to doorknobs and hooks, upgrade functional fixtures with contemporary styles. Double-check that the room has adequate lighting which also complements your design aesthetic. Add in fun accessorizes like this coat rack to create a wow-factor as soon as your guests glance at your mudroom makeover.

Top Birthday Invitation Design Trends

IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY & YOU CAN DO WHAT YOU WANT TO

Basic Invite

A fabulous birthday party begins with fabulous birthday invitations. It sets the tone for the party and lets your guests know what to expect at your b-day bash. Show off your style by using Basic Invite Truly Custom Invitations for your next big event. Basic Invite Truly Custom Invitations offers customizable cards and invitations for all of your life’s big moments. And what could be bigger than your birthday?

Whether you’re planning the party for yourself or that special someone, go all out this year with these top custom birthday invitation design trends. If you’re an awesome b-day planner for your family and friends but a little disappointed on your own day, step it up and plan your own birthday this year! Go flashy, go minimal or go gold just go for it.

TREND: Foil

Gold foil is one of the most popular trends on stationary. We see it on notepads, business cards, books and of course invitation. Basic Invite has free custom foil upgrades to make sure you’re set to shine bright on your day. Whether you choose copper, silver or gold foil, this printing trend instantly elevates your invite. Add luxury, texture and bling to your invitation by choosing foil this birthday month, week or day depending on how long you celebrate your b-day. You do you, though.

TREND: Minimalism

Simplify your birthday invitation for a modern look that’s trending in 2020. Most minimalistic invitations don’t have artwork on them instead, they use the space and text to create a wow-factor. You can say that less is more is always on trend and in this case, it applies to your birthday invitation too! If you go with a minimal birthday invite, it will match any theme of your party! Give your guests the party and invite you want to ‘cause it’s your birthday.

TREND: Have FUN With Color

If you want a fun, unforgettable birthday party, your invite’s design should tell your guests it’s time to celebrate! To do so, use dramatic colors, bold pairings, neon or different color combinations. I love the use of the neon colors in these Basic Invite birthday invitations that pop while the black backgrounds offer a sense of luxe to the design.

Basic Invite has unlimited color combinations and is one of the few websites that allow you to instantly preview infinite color combos online. You can even change the color of each element on a card while choosing from over 180 different colors. You can design the card exactly how you want it down to the smallest detail, which is why Basic Invite is one of the leading online stationery companies. So have fun with it and design an invite that represents you.

TREND: Stunning Envelopes

Choose a trendy envelope with texture to show your personality and party vibe. The envelope is just as important as the birthday invitation. And, Basic Invite is just as colorful with their envelopes as they are with their invitations. They have over 40 different envelope colors you can choose from to seal the deal. Sending out lots of invites for a mega birthday bash? Basic Invite’s envelopes are peel and seal so that the envelopes can be closed quickly and easily to get your designs out fast to your guests.

Basic Invite’s Birthday Invitations

Besides keeping up with the invite trends, it’s awesome using a service that is hassle-free and customizable specifically to your birthday party wishes. You can try it out by ordering a printed sample of the invitation you create so you can see the cards’ paper quality and how it prints before making your final order.

A major bonus is their free address collection service to request your addresses along with free envelope printing on your order. I’d definitely need that service! As far as the rest goes, it’s all up to you on the design! This birthday go big and bold or sleek and gold just remember it’s the first, important step in making memories with people you love on your big b-day.

Check out Basic Invite at https://www.basicinvite.com/ and follow them on instagram for more inspiration @BasicInvite. And don’t forget to invite me. #FOMO

Verses: For When You're Anxious & Afraid

“Do those things that you learned from me. Remember the things that I said. Remember the things that I did. You must do those things too. And so the God who causes us to be without trouble inside ourselves will be with you.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:9‬ 

“Be strong like that, because God has given us his Spirit. And his Spirit does not cause us to be afraid. Instead, he causes us to be strong to serve God. He helps us to love God and other people. And he helps us to rule ourselves properly.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭1:7‬

“He comforts us during all things that cause trouble and pain for us. So then, as a result, we ourselves can comfort other people who have any kind of trouble or pain. We can comfort them because God himself has comforted us.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭1:4‬

“Brothers and sisters, continue to think about what is good and worthy of praise. Think about what is true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” 

Philippians 4:8 

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline.”

2 Timothy 1:7

“But now, GOD ’s Message, the God who made you in the first place, Jacob, the One who got you started, Israel: “Don’t be afraid, I’ve redeemed you. I’ve called your name. You’re mine. When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you. When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down. When you’re between a rock and a hard place, it won’t be a dead end— Because I am GOD, your personal God, The Holy of Israel, your Savior. I paid a huge price for you: all of Egypt, with rich Cush and Seba thrown in! That’s how much you mean to me! That’s how much I love you! I’d sell off the whole world to get you back, trade the creation just for you.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43:1-4‬

“Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:6-9‬ ‭

“When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭94:18-19

“On a good day, enjoy yourself; On a bad day, examine your conscience. God arranges for both kinds of days So that we won’t take anything for granted.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭7:14

Bring On Spring With These Eco-Friendly Brands

Ready For Spring

Here are some of my favorite eco-friendly brands right now! Get some fresh air, vibes and green products as we head into one of my favorite seasons (I kinda love them all).

Real Rose Wood Wanderer Sunglasses by WUDN

Real Rose Wood Wanderer Sunglasses by WUDN

WUDN

Styling WUDN’s real rose wood wanderer sunglasses and #loving the industry-leading polarized lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection because I like darker lenses with high clarity which these provide along with being scratch resistant.

WUDN has a great collection of eco-friendly, real wood products that are locally sourced and made in Hidden Springs, Idaho for superior quality, durability and sustainability. The sunglasses I’m wearing combined locally sourced, sustainable American Black Walnut wood with eco-friendly acetate frames to make the perfect pair of spring shades. WUDN offers products other than sunglasses like bamboo power banks, phone cases and tech accessories.

Real Rose Wood Wanderer Sunglasses by WUD

Every Pair Plants One Tree

WUDN partnered with One Tree Planted and for each pair of sunglasses sold, WUDN will donate $1 to plant a tree. And yes, it only takes $1 to plant an entire, magnificent tree. One Tree Planted is a nonprofit focused on global reforestation. To donate or see how you can get involved, visit their website https://onetreeplanted.org/. You can use the code ALLISONGAPPA for 20% off at shopwudn.com. Go plant a tree, please.

Recontained

Beautiful bottles, branding and mission, Recontained is a zero waste store specializing in a wide range of personal care & household cleaning products in a refillable format. They offer a wide variety of eco-lifestyle products. Personally, I tried the body wash and loved everything about it! Check them out at recontained.com and get 10% off with the code ALLISONLUVSRECO10.

Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo

MVP Status

Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo is one of the best shampoo and conditioner sets I have ever used and definitely the best smelling products. When you got it, it’s worth the splurge. The best part? It’s vegan and cruelty-free. Purchase at neimanmarcus.com.

Also MVP Status

For a much lower price than Oribe but still awesome & vegan is the Love Beauty and Planet brand. I’ve used the shampoo and conditioner before and I love it. You can pick it up at Target, Walgreens or Walmart as you’re racing through the grocery store to get back outside to the spring sunshine. Be a ray and buy eco-friendly or vegan. Drop your fave green brands in the comments or send me an email with whatever is on your mind!

Tulsa Luxury Home SIZZLE

Check out this gorgeous country estate in Bixby, Oklahoma! Enjoy breathtaking country views on the estate’s 5 acres with a beautiful pond and the immaculate outdoor living area with a dramatic infinity pool.

17001 S Lewis Ave. Bixby, OK 74008 has it all: resort-style master suite, mancave extraordinaire, game room, stylish custom features and more!

Watch the episode and SUBSCRIBE NOW to catch the next Tulsa Home SIZZLE on YouTube!

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Interested in this property? CONTACT US!

Want Allison Gappa to help sell your property? Contact: allisongappa@gmail.com.

Favorite Quotes from Favorite Philosophers

“No great genius has ever existed without a strain of madness. ”

— Aristotle

“Remember what is unbecoming to do is also unbecoming to speak of.”

— Socrates

“Live in the sunshine. Swim in the sea. Drink in the wild air.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

“We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.”

— Socrates

“No pleasure is a bad thing in itself: but the means which produce some pleasures bring with them disturbances many times greater than the pleasures.”

— Epicurus, Principal Doctrines

“Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives - choice, not chance, determines your destiny.”

— Aristotle

“Life contains but two tragedies. One is not to get your heart’s desire; the other is to get it.”

— Socrates

“Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising that tempt you to believe your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires some of the same courage that a soldier needs. Peace has its victories, but it takes brave men and women to win them.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

“The greatest blessing granted to mankind come by way of madness, which is a divine gift.”

— Socrates

VLOG: The Rentz Team at Keller Williams Family Reunion 2020

#VLOGTEAM or The Rentz Team, a top-producing real estate team in Tulsa, Oklahoma, just got back from Keller Williams Family Reunion 2020 in Dallas, Texas.

Check the VLOG & if you want to talk real estate or connect, drop a comment or send a email to allisongappa@gmail.com.