This year, I have more than ever to be thankful for.  While I like to think that I always appreciate all that I have, today I plan on slowing down and really reveling in it.  Along with a couple of homemade pies.  Happy Thanksgiving!

While it may only be a small gathering, this year is my first time cooking a full Thanksgiving meal.  And in my world, regardless of size, that deserves a dressed up table…

Inspired by this paisley table runner in autumnal hues and these gold dotted West Elm plates (picked up on sale), I was looking for a simple DIY that would be easy on budget and time.  Enter, Martha Stewart.  Using simple votive holders picked up from Michaels, and layers of tissue paper in ombre colors, I came up with a these candle holders.  And remember the spray painted gold pumpkin from my last Make-Do post?  Yep, I cut the top off, and voila!  A shiny vase for my matching mixed bouquet.  Finally, using a gold sharpie I drew up simple place cards with each guest’s name and paisley shapes.  Now, about that bird…


While it may only be a small gathering, this year is my first time cooking a full Thanksgiving meal.  And in my world, regardless of size, that deserves a dressed up table…

Inspired by this paisley table runner in autumnal hues and these gold dotted West Elm plates (picked up on sale), I was looking for a simple DIY that would be easy on budget and time.  Enter, Martha Stewart.  Using simple votive holders picked up from Michaels, and layers of tissue paper in ombre colors, I came up with a these candle holders.  And remember the spray painted gold pumpkin from my last Make-Do post?  Yep, I cut the top off, and voila!  A shiny vase for my matching mixed bouquet.  Finally, using a gold sharpie I drew up simple place cards with each guest’s name and paisley shapes.  Now, about that bird…


The-Steele-Maiden-Cheap-Monday-Series-Boys-Club
Last week’s Cheap Monday post was the first in kicking off my holiday gift giving suggestions, and this week continues the theme – this time focusing on gifts for men…


It seems that no matter how well you know the men in your life, come this time of year, buying for brothers, dads, boyfriends etc. suddenly becomes incredibly daunting.  Since a big screen TV is usually not in the budget, I suggest going with something that you know they’ll use, but may not spring for themselves.  Below, a few suggestions..

Nest: Not many guys will swoon over a new throw pillow, but a personalized decanter (like this option from West Elm) is exactly the time of home decor that your boyfriend will appreciate.  Go traditional and put his initials on the cork, or have some fun with a short phrase like ‘refills’ or ‘enough’.  Gift it with a nice bottle of whiskey for extra bonus points.

Dressed:  Pay homage to their favorite day of the week with this quality graphic t-shirt from Saturdays Surf NYC, great for your younger brother who may need a hint that it’s time to throw away those old childish tees.  

The Rest: Most men grab the same bar soap and shampoo day after day – but if you gave them a quality Kiehls set, I promise they’d never want to go back.  Not only is this a great starter set that let’s them try a little bit of everything, it would also be great for your dad’s next trip or a brother in law that’s always traveling for business.  

The-Steele-Maiden-Cheap-Monday-Series-Boys-Club
Last week’s Cheap Monday post was the first in kicking off my holiday gift giving suggestions, and this week continues the theme – this time focusing on gifts for men…


It seems that no matter how well you know the men in your life, come this time of year, buying for brothers, dads, boyfriends etc. suddenly becomes incredibly daunting.  Since a big screen TV is usually not in the budget, I suggest going with something that you know they’ll use, but may not spring for themselves.  Below, a few suggestions..

Nest: Not many guys will swoon over a new throw pillow, but a personalized decanter (like this option from West Elm) is exactly the time of home decor that your boyfriend will appreciate.  Go traditional and put his initials on the cork, or have some fun with a short phrase like ‘refills’ or ‘enough’.  Gift it with a nice bottle of whiskey for extra bonus points.

Dressed:  Pay homage to their favorite day of the week with this quality graphic t-shirt from Saturdays Surf NYC, great for your younger brother who may need a hint that it’s time to throw away those old childish tees.  

The Rest: Most men grab the same bar soap and shampoo day after day – but if you gave them a quality Kiehls set, I promise they’d never want to go back.  Not only is this a great starter set that let’s them try a little bit of everything, it would also be great for your dad’s next trip or a brother in law that’s always traveling for business.