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September 30, 2013

WARNING:  If you're not into romance you might want to skip today's post!



I've got THE sweetest repurposing ideas to kick off our Monday.

Vintage glassware stacked on old romance novels were used as the
centerpieces for a charming wedding reception!  This idea can be used
for an engagement party, wedding reception, Valentine's Day dinner,
or an anniversary celebration.  



The clever designers at Vintage Origami
created a business that provides romance
for a price.  It's brilliant!

Their 'love props' are available for rental
to those DIYers on a budget who want something exceptional for their special day.





Notice the vintage keys threaded with ribbon?
It must mean, "you're the key to my happiness!"






More charming centerpieces





Even old wooden spools of thread can be put to work.  




This reception featured a Tea Station where various flavors of
tea was served in antique and vintage tea cups and saucers:




Vintage Origami's props are customized for each couple's individual interests:
 Maybe an anniversary trip to the mountains?




 An outdoor wedding/reception setting for the
adventurous, mountain climbing young pair?




How about a retirement party with vintage accessories?
Isn't the cake darling, standing in an old typewriter case?




How about an anniversary party that reflects
back on the couple's many travels and trips?



At one couple's anniversary party black and white vintage photos
of family members were displayed on an antique dresser.


Sitting and registration stations can be positioned for guests'
comfort and help keep those early arrivals entertained: 













Even an outdoor Winter wedding can be 'propped
up' with lovely antique and vintage pieces.




Instead of the traditional wedding cake table, this bride chose to use a
beautiful desk and tarnished silver plated candle sticks and cake plates.




Paper roses were made from a vintage romance novel.

Instead of a traditional cake stand, appetizers
and cupcakes were served off of vintage scales.



Origami flowers and stars were created from paper
printed with the couple's favorite love songs:




And guests' favors were wrapped in origami stars
made from the same love song printed paper.



Fish and Lots
Fish and Lots can turn copies of old love letters into origami lotus
flowers.  This idea is so sweet that it brings tears to my eyes.

You're right - I should have featured this post back in the Spring when so many young couples were planning their weddings.  But keep it in mind for friends and family members who might have a special event planned where antiques and vintage items can be used in place of traditional decor.

September 27, 2013

How hard would it be to pass legislation that made
every Friday an official Before & After day?!


Look how this regal, old chair was given an extended and beautiful new life: 

While They Snooze


A thrift store treasure was restored and re-loved:

Design Sponge




In Our Spare Time
Another successful paint treatment transformation.



Don't worry, it's not time for my tri-annual Mid-Century Modern rant.
But, take a look at the results of this vintage beauty's upholstery work:
DIY Network
Gorgeous!



The foyer wall behind the front door is an area of the house
that can often be forgotten when it comes to decorating.


The next time you see an entertainment cabinet
from the 1970s, think of the possibilities:

It's hard to believe this is the same piece, isn't it?


Do you have a pair of plain wood bar stools that need an update?

For as little as $10 you can completely transform
bar stools with this gold dip paint technique.



How precious is this play kitchen?
Garden of Love
I'll never look at used cabinets the same again!




A bare room can be incredibly intimidating:

Who's intimidating now?!


This dated bathroom was given a spectacular facelift:



Whether or not to paint kitchen cabinets is a huge decision.
These next two projects might help make that decision easier:



Chris Loves Julie






You won't believe what you can do with an IKEA shelf unit:

Charming!


Wall units tend to give a room a sense of being off balance:

What a difference.


A small kitchen can still make a powerful statement:



This little house wasn't just given a make over,
it was given an adorable new personality.

Amazing difference, isn't it?


Earlier this year Victoria Smith of San Francisco Girl by the Bay
shared some stunning photographs of her modern cottage makeover: 



San Francisco Girl by the Bay
Visit Victoria's wonderful site site and check out
additional photos of her progress.  So inspiring!


Weren't today's Before & After projects wonderful?  I hope you
were motivated to tackle a re-do that you've been putting off.
Have a great weekend!