I want to talk with you about something that's been on my mind for a while: the difference between inspiration and imitation. I feel that over the last few years, the prevalence of Instagram and Pinterest “inspiration” has altered our idea of what it means to actually be inspired. As a location scout for Country Living and many other magazines, I've seen homes become more and more identical online, lacking individuality and becoming carbon copies of what's trending. And, although it may seem easier to copy exactly what you see online, the results will inevitably lack depth and personality.

If you’ve been around the blog for a hot second, you’ve probably noticed (or heard me talk about) the fact that I have a lot of stuff - more commonly referred to as props. There was a time I used to apologize for having so many things, mostly because I would anticipate judgement (who wants that) until one day I realized, a doctor would never think she has too many instruments, nor a lawyer too many law books. Those items are the tools of the their trade. As a stylist, props are mine.

This weekend, I spent some time cleaning our espresso machines and tidying up the coffee station. While I was elbow deep in coffee grounds and forgotten spills, I thought it might be helpful to take photos and share how I keep it all organized. I like to create a simple system so that everything has its own place and items are easily accessible when we’re using the space. As a stylist, it’s also important that it looks beautiful and inviting to me, but more so, that it functions well for our needs.

Today marks the beginning a new monthly series called Styling Essentials. Once a month, I’ll be focusing on a particular interior design styling element, more specifically, I’ll be sharing the exact decor items I source the most and bring to every magazine styling assignment. These are the pieces that many homeowners typically don’t have enough of - or at all. So, I’m here to help you know what to look for, where to find it, and provide tips on how to style it! Think of this new series as a prop stylist at your service!

This month I’ll be focusing on vases, and I’ve broken it down into three categories: statement, accent, and heirloom.

This month I’ll be focusing on vases, and I’ve broken it down into three categories: statement, accent, and heirloom.

Ever since I picked up pottery as a hobby, it’s made me much more aware of the unique ways the material is being used. Lately, I’ve noticed that artisans and home decor brands are utilizing it in a wider array of objects for the home, including my favorite - lighting. I love that ceramics can appeal to a variety of decor styles, everything from Scandi and modern, to country and traditional.

Below I’ve sourced 15 unique (and gorgeous!) pieces of lighting that will add earthiness, texture, and interest to any space.

My work studio at Grove House is essentially, an attached studio apartment. It can be accessed through the main house but also has it’s own separate entrance. It has a full kitchen and pantry (although we haven’t installed a range or refrigerator, it’s been plumed for both) a full bath and a large walk-in storage closet. I often say that I could easily and happily live in it, and when I’m home, find myself spending much of my day here. Aside from our master bedroom, it has the best natural light, which is why I’m so partial to it. The slipcovered sofa tucked under the windows is my favorite place to read, and our rescue dog, Liberty’s, favorite place to nap.