Recently married, there are a number of favorite moments I have collected over the past five months. My sister, who knows me so well, threw me a book shower. Those invited were asked to “bring a book that reminds you of the bride for her library.” I drove home with a large stack of new books for my personal library. What a dream, right?

With a thankful heart and a bit teary eyed, I went through each book and read who they were from and why that friend thought I needed it for my collection. There were a few beach books–perfect for the honeymoon. There were several children’s books-some favorite ones that keep me reminded of my time at Kirkpatrick Elementary. There were a few faith books–something I always need to keep me in check. And then….there were several decorating books. Just. what. I. need.

Setting up a house can be a tricky thing. It can be even trickier if you are trying to mesh two different people’s styles and pieces of furniture. Bradley and I are having a great time trying to get things just where they should be. Slowly but surely it will be just as we hope. To say it’s a work in progress is an understatement.

As I look at  all the boxes, furniture and hanging things, I turn around and walk out of the room. I sit down with my stack of decorating books and hope to get an idea that will get me on my feet again. Here are the books I am relying on. With these, I do believe I’ll pull together a house I can only dream of.

Domino the Book of Decorating by Domino Magazine

If you are like me, you were sad to see Domino the Magazine go under. This fabulous book came out a few years ago. I do believe it has some ideas that are fresh and different. Not sure your style type? This book can help you determine your style. Domino will point you in the direction of who you are-in a decorating sense, of course.

 

 

Modern Vintage Style by Emily Chalmers

Vintage is in style these days. It’s almost as if people strive to make recently purchased items look vintage. If only my mother or grandmother had saved more things, I feel certain they would be just what I need in my house. This book puts a twist on it: modern vintage. This book is divided into two sections. The first is pure inspiration. The second section guides you how to pull it all together “so you can cook and eat, live and sleep and bathe in modern vintage style.”

Scrapbook for Living by Bunny Williams

This beautiful book takes you on a tour of several rooms from a variety of her client’s homes. There are so many details of each room to soak in. In addition to the pictures, she also gives advice on a little bit of everything you may have in your house. There are notes on how to best use anything from a bedside table to a small flat screen television. She also gives you a run down of must haves for your guest bedroom and bathroom. If you are looking for a small change to make a big impact in one of your rooms, this book may give your house the uplift it needs.

 

These books are so nice to have in your house to get your creative juices going. However, if I do say so myself, they make wonderful gifts! With Christmas around the corner, consider these ideas!  -Quinn

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