• Home
  • Mom Lessons
  • Parties
  • Design
  • Christmas
  • Wedding Dress Project
  • Contact
 
  • Home
  • Mom Lessons
  • Parties
  • Design
  • Christmas
  • Wedding Dress Project
  • Contact
 
 
 

Faux Marble Master Bath

By Coleen On February 16, 2017 · Add Comment · In Design
Simple white towels made this monochrome master bath seem even more fancy! I brought in favorite collections/accessories, that you might not normally find in a bathroom, and they worked. High end look, for a low end price: I filled assorted clear glass jars with Epson salt for an instant sophisticated collection. <ahref=”http://bycoleen.com/wpcontent/uploads/2016/09/20160905_085951_resized.jpg”> Guess what? This [...]
Read More »

Cherry Pie Valentine’s Love Letter

By Coleen On February 13, 2017 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons, Parties, Uncategorized
This is the cutest idea that I got from my friend Liz Bushong. Check out her blog at www.serveitupsassy.com. Brenna and I fell in love with Liz’s Valentine’s Day Love Letter made of pie crust and cherry pie filling. We set to work making it for my Mom. Our goal was to deliver it warm. [...]
Read More »

Natural Entranceway

By Coleen On February 8, 2017 · Add Comment · In Design
No one wants to take a tree down less then me (First, I love them. Second, ugh, the price.) But when we had no other choice last week, you know what I was thinking. New design at our front door! Then, it snowed, making the whole display even prettier. Clearly a sign from the universe [...]
Read More »

Transitional Christmas Decor

By Coleen On December 29, 2016 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
After the holidays, I like to strip down my decorations before I put them all away. I call this “transitional decor.” It’s when you just aren’t ready to let go. Packed away are the Santas, the snowmen, the sleighs. I leave out the decorations that are more fancy and speak to New Year’s. Here I [...]
Read More »

It’s a Wrap

By Coleen On December 24, 2016 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design, Mom Lessons
Ribbon is like jewelry. If you wrap, but don’t add the ribbon, it’s like putting together an outfit with no accessories. Don’t do it! I know it’s exhausting. I know you are so over the holidays. Trust me. Push yourself. You will never regret the effort of putting a bow on it. It doesn’t need [...]
Read More »

White House Christmas

By Coleen On November 30, 2016 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
You know I love a White House Christmas! This throw back pic is from 2014 when I was the luckiest girl in the world designing White House Christmas decor. This is a “pop up” book display that I designed with my friend, and artist, Jenn Lange. We made four for the East Room Fireplaces. They [...]
Read More »

Fall Succulents

By Coleen On September 12, 2016 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties, Uncategorized
Yay Fall!  In almost no time, I made these awesome pumpkin/succulent centerpieces & you can too. Hallow out your pumpkins, and simply place your tiny succulents in them, like you would any planter. Have some extra potting soil on hand.  Go for unusual colors, like this white, for a new and different look.  For bigger [...]
Read More »

Back to School!

By Coleen On September 6, 2016 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons
Hey kids, it’s time to go out and conquer the world! Stop hitting snooze….
Read More »

Kitchen By Coleen

By Coleen On September 6, 2016 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
This craftsman kitchen was so much fun to design! My favorite things are the black “leather” counter tops on the outlying cabinets vs. the white marble of the island. (Note: no island seam! I did it! I found a 12 foot slab of the exact marble we needed!) Be sure to check out my interpretation [...]
Read More »

Teen Room

By Coleen On September 5, 2016 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
I love working with teens because they know what they want and they aren’t afraid to break rules. How much fun would it be to hang out here? The best part of this room is we ditched the headboard in favor of a colorful map tapestry. I call this “elevated college dorm.” It has all [...]
Read More »

Family Room

By Coleen On September 4, 2016 · Add Comment · In Design
Yard Sale Baby! The couch and pillows were store purchased, but everything else in this room was a yard sale buy. So much fun! Be sure to check out the “sweater” pillows on the couch. Soft and textured like your favorite sweater, this hot trend is the inexpensive must have for fall. Get ‘em while [...]
Read More »

Perfect Powder Room

By Coleen On September 1, 2016 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
Powder rooms are small spaces, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have a big design impact. Here, our super modern vanity steals the show with it’s clean, sleek look. I accessorized with a silver fruit collection, a fun take on the old fruit bowl. Still deciding what to do with the walls. Until then, I’m [...]
Read More »

Happy Back to School Day!

By Coleen On August 30, 2016 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Parties
Back to School is a high holiday. It needs to be celebrated! I love the look of our retro “Happy Back to School Day” door. When they were young, the kids loved it. Now, it embarrasses them. Bonus! My friend Christine B. had the best and BRAVEST back to school party ever! She had an [...]
Read More »

Home & Family: Christmas in July!

By Coleen On July 26, 2016 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design, Uncategorized
http://www.hallmarkchannel.com/home-and-family/videos/nutcracker-christmas-decor-home-family It’s Christmas in July! Check out my latest appearance on Hallmark’s Home & Family. (video link above). July is the perfect time to craft for Christmas! There’s no stress, you can actually give some thought to your Christmas decor and you can enjoy the crafting. (It’s also a great time to sort through your [...]
Read More »

Graduation Caps

By Coleen On June 16, 2016 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties
Following my party rule of “three special touches,” I came up with the idea of these adorable graduation caps. I made one for our dog door stop and one for our budda and baby statue. They were super easy. I put the dog by the front door, and called it a graduation party. I used: [...]
Read More »

Graduation Party

By Coleen On June 15, 2016 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons, Parties
Maeve’s graduating. What? Who let her turn 18? Here’s a few ideas from her grad party that you are free to steal. I love creating vignettes at a party. Here’s my rule: you need at least three vignettes scattered about your party. If you do it right, they tell the story of the party and [...]
Read More »

Talking Today: Oscars with Bill Spaeda of NJ 101.15

By Coleen On February 26, 2016 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Red carpet! Shiny statues! Beautiful people! I’m in. There’s nothing I love more than Oscar Week (ok – maybe a good DIY) and this morning I’m going back to my Access Hollywood/Gossip Girl roots. Tune in to NJ 101.5 in the 9 o’clock hour (ok 9:08am exactly) to hear Bill Spadea and I talk everything [...]
Read More »

Decking the Halls at the Governor’s Mansion

By Coleen On December 6, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Honored to be invited to design and decorate the Grand Hall at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Mansion. Tours start Monday, December 7. Here’s a sneak peak of the decorations. Be sure to check back for a full reveal once First Lady Frances Wolf unveils the decorations!
Read More »

Sneak Peak CNN

By Coleen On December 5, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Tune in Christmas morning to catch me talking about Christmas with the First Ladies! If you can’t because of Santa’s arrival make sure to set your DVR!
Read More »

I’ll have a blue Christmas

By Coleen On December 4, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
One thing I love about the holidays is using colors that you already have in your home and making them festive. Here I used my blue and white dinner ware and paired it with timings of silver and white. You can have a blue and white Christmas with just adding touches of ornaments or colored [...]
Read More »

First Ladies’ Fashion

By Coleen On November 18, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
I am thrilled to be speaking at the Smithsonian Museum this evening on the fashion of two iconic First Ladies, Jackie and Michelle!
Read More »

What I Stole from Dr. Oz

By Coleen On October 8, 2015 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Dr. Oz was nice enough to have me on his show as a guest blogger, and what did I do? I stole his fantastic idea. Well, actually it was his staffs’ fantastic idea, but he loved it.  It seems when they  didn’t know what to get the guy who has everything, someone came up with [...]
Read More »

Restuarant Party Tips

By Coleen On September 25, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
Restaurants are a super easy and convenient way to celebrate special events. My favorite tip is to customize your table — especially if its a small celebration. Above is what I had going on at our house. And this is how it looked at the restaurant. Brenna and her friend were graduating elementary school, and [...]
Read More »

Recycled School Supplies

By Coleen On September 2, 2015 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
No more pencils, no more books…..in our living room at least!  The kids went back at it again last June and collected recycled school supplies to donate to students in need.  Year 2 was a big success as you can see by the mess in our house. “> This year the local media even got [...]
Read More »

Ice Cream Party

By Coleen On August 31, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
I love people who get having parties. My sister-in-law Christie is one of those people. She’s goes all out for my niece’s birthday, and I love it! This year it was an ice cream party, complete with a centerpiece made of ice cream sprinkles and tissue paper. For the sundae bar, cones and cups were [...]
Read More »

Mason Jars & Last Minute Bunting

By Coleen On July 4, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties
Since we are one nation obsessed with Mason Jars, it only seemed right we pull out the acrylic and paint with red, white and blue. Except we didn’t have white. So we made do. They turned out so cute, we didn’t even miss the white paint. But if we did, we could have easily filled [...]
Read More »

Party Like it’s 1776! Firecracker Centerpiece

By Coleen On July 3, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties
This one from pinterest always got me, and I always wanted to try to put my own spin on it. Finally, it came to me — the ric rac firecracker sunburst. You see it there in the middle?  It’s a supporting player, but adorable nonetheless. Sure, some people invent the internet or electricity. I’ve got [...]
Read More »

Red, White & Blue Ice Cream Sandwiches

By Coleen On July 2, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties, Uncategorized
What’s cuter than Red, White & Blue Ice Cream Sandwiches? These are super easy and cute. Using a plate, just sprinkle jimmies on the ice cream sandwiches, snap a pic & serve. Yum!
Read More »

Trendy Tuesday: On-Cor Commercial

By Coleen On June 23, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Ok Trendy Tuesday still is not coming naturally. And yes, I missed it last week. But I’m back! This cute shirt was only $7.00 at H&M, proving again, I have no excuses. And shocker! I  saw my new shirt in an On Cor Frozen Food commercial! Not exactly what I was targeting, but I will [...]
Read More »

Flower Show Throw Backs- Cowboy Belt

By Coleen On June 20, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties, Uncategorized
Still loving my pics from the Philadelphia Flower Show back in March. What do you see in this photo? Besides the amazing flowers! It’s the cowboy belt on the table. How creative is that? You can make a strong statement with your accents. Go for it.
Read More »

Farm House Porch

By Coleen On June 18, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
I’m a big fan of porches. Who isn’t? What I love about this one is it’s simple charm. Nothing here is super expensive, and that’s part of the beauty. I’m sure you’d love to spend some time here. The blue pot and yellow wreath are the perfect touch of color. And the pot just leaves [...]
Read More »

With Sadness

By Coleen On June 15, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
With sadness, I note the too soon passing of White House Chef Walter Scheib. Walter was the White House Chef for eleven years and served both President Clinton and President George W. Bush. He was funny and charming and helped me often when I was writing my book, Christmas with the First Ladies. These are [...]
Read More »

Ballet Bridal Shower

By Coleen On June 13, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties
I love when people design parties around what they love. A little girl spent years dancing, and her friends and family surpirsed her with a bridal shower at the ballet studio where she danced. Love that idea. They decorated the studio… with a heart poster sign in and chocolate bars. Get it? Ballet barre? I [...]
Read More »

Yoga Happy Hour

By Coleen On June 12, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
Want a little zen with your happy hour? Yoga Happy Hour mixes a little wine and a little meditation. Meant for beginners, everyone is welcome. Making new friends is encouraged. Great way to start off the weekend.
Read More »

Trendy Tuesday: Orange is the New Black

By Coleen On June 9, 2015 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Ok, I came up with that title a year ago. That’s how long I’ve been thinking about upping my fashion game. Guess I didn’t want to jump into anything!  (It did not take that long to find an orange dress — just fashion lazy!!!) Found this cute dress at Francesca’s at the mall. Think it [...]
Read More »

Farm Store

By Coleen On June 7, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
One of my favorite things about summer is when these signs pop up, letting us know fresh produce is just steps away at the farm store. I mean, what about a giant strawberry doesn’t make you happy? And who can resist fresh eggs when they’re marketed like this?!
Read More »

Dog Park Birthday Tailgate

By Coleen On June 4, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
I don’t even have a dog and I want to have one of these parties! My genius friend Pam had a tailgate birthday party for her dog Jack at the local dog park.  For Jack’s 5th birthday, they showed up at the park ready tailgate! Anyone who was there was welcome to join in. How [...]
Read More »

Birthday Sash

By Coleen On June 3, 2015 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Parties, Uncategorized
Okay girls, just figure out a way to make this one early for your daughters. You will reuse it every year and just think how adorable the pictures will be as your little one grows up in her birthday sash. I also expect you to wear it on your own bday! You can make this [...]
Read More »

Trendy Tuesday : Lilly for Target

By Coleen On June 2, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
I’ve taken the fashion challenge. Ok, in full disclosure this was my New Year’s Resolution that I am just getting too. (Resolutions don’t actually expire until 12/31. So I’m still ok). Why now? Honestly, I didn’t have much choice since at any moment the crew from What Not to Wear could come out of retirement [...]
Read More »

I Brake for Farm Stands

By Coleen On May 31, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
I brake for farm stands…who doesn’t!!!! This week amazing asparagus and everyone’s favorite, peonies.   Here’s my no fail tips for both: blanch asparagus for one minute in boiling water for perfection. Now for those peonies, if you ever cut them fresh and brought them into your home, you know you’re asking for an ant [...]
Read More »

Birthday Wreath Version 2

By Coleen On May 29, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties
Okay, when I made the Birthday Chalk Board for the front door, I mistakenly thought it was reusable. Not so. Apparently, the girls got it in their minds they each would have their own birthday front door. (What have I created?) What to do for a 17 year old? Wasn’t sure at first. Didn’t want [...]
Read More »

Elevated Kids Table

By Coleen On May 28, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties
Read More »

Memorial Day Center Piece

By Coleen On May 25, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties
Red, white and blue always leaves me patriotic, even when it’s gumballs. This one is super simple — colored gumballs in mason jars. I took it a step further by making the pinwheels. You can find the instructions here: bit.ly/1FFSGxZ Remember to thank a Veteran!
Read More »

Patriotic Ice Cream Cones

By Coleen On May 24, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties
Kick off your summer with these super cute, patriotic ice cream cones. Just coat the top of your cones with white icing and dip in sprinkles. (jimmies, if your from Philadelphia like me). You can use them as soon as you finish. Enjoy!
Read More »

Birthday Board

By Coleen On May 11, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties
Spring is high birthday season at our house. In full disclosure, I did own a birthday wreath that I made and would hang each year for the girls. But that went the way of the burst pipe, with the rest of our belongings. I never really loved it and I just couldn’t bring myself to [...]
Read More »

Vintage Funk: Green & Brown

By Coleen On April 28, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design
Found a cute store called Vintage Funk that was featuring 70’s green and brown. Loved it! Even though I would traditionally do green and brown in the fall, this works for spring. The white off sets it and makes it feel lighter. I love the 70’s! By pairing this leaf shaped 70’s plate with more [...]
Read More »

Floral Lamp

By Coleen On April 28, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design
I’ve always had a love/hate relationship with florals. After the Lilly Pulitzer free for all on Pink Sunday, I guess I’m more in the love phase. Those crazed preppy girls scared it into me. I thought this vintage floral lamp hit the sweet spot. Lilly would be proud. And no pushing or shoving. Lilly would [...]
Read More »

For the Love of Lilly

By Coleen On April 20, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
I got my myself involved in a preppy feeding freenzy, and all I got was this dumb shirt. Actually, I really like the shirt. And, I was really lucky to get it. Unlike a lot Lilly fans, I had fun at the Target Lilly Pulitzer free for all and have something to show for it. [...]
Read More »

Mom, Where do we keep the citric acid?

By Coleen On April 18, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Yes, Brenna asked where I stash the citric acid. My first thought was, why does she think we’d have this? My second thought was, should we?? We do encourage DIY in this house, but this felt like we might be getting into MacGyver territory. Short answer is that she needed it to make bath salts. [...]
Read More »

Organic Garden Walls

By Coleen On April 17, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
My pics from the Philadelphia Flower Show prove there’s an outside trend in the making: Organic Garden Walls. I loved this one made from fresh cut logs, and filled in with various garden plants. (By that, I mean, I have no idea what the varieties are called!) And anyone who knows me, knows I love [...]
Read More »

Apples and Roses

By Coleen On April 12, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties
So in the rental house, we have limited space and limited glassware, neither of which are ideal for a party. But, for Brenna’s Confirmation, we decided to go for it anyway. One of best things you can do for a party, be it big or small, lavish or on a budget, is to introduce something [...]
Read More »

Confirmation Desserts

By Coleen On April 11, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
One of my favorite things about parties are the special little touches. You can’t go wrong with a cupcake cross. And this year we branched out (thank you pinterest) to Bible Fig Newtons. Did you ever think you’d read those words? But, aren’t they cute? They required fig newtowns, white icing in a baggy to [...]
Read More »

Happy Easter!

By Coleen On April 5, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design
Happy Easter!
Read More »

Good Friday

By Coleen On April 3, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Happened on an empty church. Felt blessed.
Read More »

Blank

By Coleen On March 31, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Read More »

March Madness Centerpiece

By Coleen On March 22, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design
Even though my bracket is busted (Villa-no where!), I still love this post from last year. I got grief because I didn’t use actual college basketballs, but in a pinch, I still think this is fab! Enjoy the throwback: I love decorating for sports themed parties with actual sports equipment. Here, I made an easy [...]
Read More »

Fishtail – A Bridal Kick Off

By Coleen On March 14, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties, Uncategorized
My wonderful friend found love love again, and I am thrilled for her, but I might be even happier that she found Fishtail on the Upper East Side! It’s my new favorite spot for anything. Plus, it’s Celebrity Chef David Burke’s place. No, I’m not related. (But in my mind, all things are possible. Perhaps, [...]
Read More »

Philadelphia Flower Show: Outdoor Room

By Coleen On March 9, 2015 · 2 Comments · In Design
With all the talk of flowers on this blog, it’s only fitting that I went to The Philadelphia Flower Show, which is the biggest flower show in the country. I’d go to a little flower show, so how could I pass up the biggest? But with all the flowers, what I fell in love with [...]
Read More »

Lingere Flowers

By Coleen On March 9, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
My friend’s Bacholorette Party is coming up (really? I haven’t outgrown these??), and the invitation said “Lingere Only” for gifts. How I wish I could bring even one these! Just amazing…from the Philadelphia Flower Show. Love creative people.
Read More »

Birthday Mantra

By Coleen On March 7, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
You know all those birthday emails you get from different businesses? Well last year I got one from a yoga teacher from where I used to live, offering a free yoga class on my birthday. I wrote back telling him I moved, and asked if knew of any chants that were specific to birthdays. Ok, [...]
Read More »

Birthday Compass

By Coleen On March 5, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties
Don’t you love the perfect gift? Sometimes someone just gets you, and the gift says a million things without being expensive. I love being on the giving and receiving end of perfect gifts. Enter the Birthday Compass. So last summer I got my friend horribly lost while driving in an area I have lived in [...]
Read More »

Burlap Vases

By Coleen On March 2, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
So, the vase obsession, or lack of vases, continues. A year with no flowers, and now, we’re rotting with them. We’re getting tired of looking at our improvised glass milk jar vases. Enter burlap. I’m still not over the burlap/twine trend. So while we have no vases, we do have burlap. This time, I wrapped [...]
Read More »

February Dreaming – Let’s Ride a Bike

By Coleen On February 27, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Oh, what I wouldn’t do to go ride this bike!
Read More »

This Looks Pretty Nice…

By Coleen On February 20, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design
Read More »

President’s Day Decor

By Coleen On February 16, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design
Poor President’s Day – it’s the little holiday no one cares about. Well, I care about President’s Day. I care so much I’m going to celebrate all week! And, I love this funky, history inspired decor that the Hotel Monaco has going. I grew up in an historic area — and I thought I’d seen [...]
Read More »

Valentine’s Roll Cake

By Coleen On February 15, 2015 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons
No sooner had we finised the Valentine Cherry Pie Envelope, then someone wanted to make a roll cake that she had seen on YouTube. Hint: it wasn’t me. I was too tired. We weren’t even done cleaning up from the envelope. And as it was explained to me, it seemed to defy the laws of [...]
Read More »

Hotel House: No Vase Update

By Coleen On February 14, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Ok, I shared with you in horror that we have no vases in the hotel house. Mom saved the day last week with some mason jars for Brenna’s flowers. Here we are at Valentine’s Day though, with no vases again. A problem I’m happy to have — since we went 11 months without a need [...]
Read More »

Hotel House: No Vase

By Coleen On February 5, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons
We are still in the Hotel House (our name for the rental we’ve been living in since our house was destroyed). The rental house is bare bones, just what you need. We’ve been here almost a year — and we just realized we don’t have a vase! What? This can’t be my life. But it [...]
Read More »

No Wrapping Paper

By Coleen On January 30, 2015 · Add Comment · In Parties
When Kristen, you know her from idontgotothegym.com, married my cousin Steve, we couldn’t wait for a new baby in the family! So how did I get caught with no wrapping paper the day of the Baby Shower? Let’s be honest, it’s not the first time it’s happened (if we’re being really honest, I’m lucky I [...]
Read More »

January Snowflakes

By Coleen On January 28, 2015 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
I love when decorations transition from one season to another. These snowflakes were actually the December decorations at my new favorite place, Hotel Monaco, in Washington, DC. But they work for January too. I secretly hope they don’t take them down! And just because they were so fabulous, here’s a few more pics!
Read More »

On a Roll

By Coleen On January 26, 2015 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons
My friend Karen posted this. As you can see her daughter is pretty smart! “So Gracie (and every other member of my family) seem to lack the dexterity gene of putting a new roll of toilet paper ON the holder. So after seeing this again today I said “Gracie, go put the toilet paper on [...]
Read More »

Small Resolution: Hand Cream

By Coleen On January 24, 2015 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Everyday, Brenna is working on her 31 Day Nail Challenge. My first reaction was that it’s easy for her to do because she loves it and she’s just a kid. But the truth is she makes time to do it. And it takes a lot of work and patience. So after a particularly bad year [...]
Read More »

Ice Angel

By Coleen On January 23, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design
With the impending Nor’easter, this little ice angel caught my eye!
Read More »

Cherry Blossom Nails

By Coleen On January 18, 2015 · 1 Comment · In Design
If the nasty weather has you down, how about some cherry blossom nails? Brenna’s doing a 31 day nail design challenge and the whole house smells like nail polish remover. Still, we’re thinking spring…
Read More »

Wreaths Done Right

By Coleen On January 15, 2015 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
So, because you asked (ok, you know you wanted too), here’s my take on two wreaths done right. Both of these are the right drop from the top of the door, and the right thickness. Send me your pics of wreaths done right @bycoleen. No wreaths gone wrong. No need for public shaming!
Read More »

Crazy Garage Wreath Meets Buddha Babby

By Coleen On January 14, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
Okay, I’ve become attached to the Crazy Garage Wreath, which I rescued from the trash. I just had to see it up close. And when I saw it up close, I kind of fell in love with it. And when I dropped over it over our Buddha Baby, I felt like it had found the [...]
Read More »

January Presents

By Coleen On January 14, 2015 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Remember last year when I told you about January Cookies? Well, today January Presents showed up! We exchanged presents with my Cousin Courtney (Cousin is a proper noun in this family!) when she showed up unexpectedly on January 14. I loved it. Of course, it helped that Courtney wrapped the presents in gold and white [...]
Read More »

Crazy Garage Wreath

By Coleen On January 13, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
A little known pet peeve of mine has to do with wreaths. I can’t stand when they are hung at the wrong height. And I can’t stand when they are the wrong size. And, it’s very common for both things to occur at once. Why? Why? WHY? Now I know this is a first world [...]
Read More »

Winter Nails

By Coleen On January 8, 2015 · Add Comment · In Design
What’s winter without a few awesome nail designs? Love them! Even the blurry ones below….
Read More »

Snow Hearts

By Coleen On January 5, 2015 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
This happy snow heart was made by boot heels, and melted my heart. #snowisnotsobad UPDATE: I knew this pic reminded me of something, and I finally got it. Check out July Resolutions — which I still think is the perfect time for change. (As I struggle, with my New Year’s Resolution!!!) bit.ly/15ABYTM
Read More »

Best gift from Teacher

By Coleen On December 30, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
I love Brenna’s sixth grade teacher! I thought this was the most amazing gift that she gave to every student in the class. According to Brenna, it started like this: Mrs. L. wrote each student’s name on a blank sheet of paper. Then the paper was passed around the classroom and the students wrote down [...]
Read More »

Don’t Open ‘Til Christmas

By Coleen On December 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Uncategorized
I got this in the mail the beginning of December – addressed to me, not the kids! I cannot even tell you how much fun I had with it. At first, I was like, oh, this is sweet. And I put it in my desk drawer. Every time I accidentally saw it, it made me [...]
Read More »

CNN Christmas Show

By Coleen On December 23, 2014 · 2 Comments · In Uncategorized
. Great to be invited back to CNN to tape their Christmas Day Show! Michaela always cracks me up (she promised next year to bring her Grandma’s rum cookies!), and as usual, a typical selfie. Thank you to those who noticed that I broke down and bought a blue dress. I was getting way tired [...]
Read More »

This Happnened: The Christmas Pyramid

By Coleen On December 22, 2014 · 1 Comment · In Christmas, Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Yes, this is a Christmas Pyramid, or the closest thing we could get to it in the Burke house. The need for this architectural feat was revealed to me after a week of insane work travel with only hours to the deadline. (In retrospect, I was lucky I got the few extra design hours). The [...]
Read More »

NYC Twin Christmas Trees!

By Coleen On December 21, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
Love these twin Christmas trees in the lobby of Fox News Channel in NYC!
Read More »

This Happened: Reindeer Antlers

By Coleen On December 20, 2014 · 1 Comment · In Christmas, Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
This really happened, but it was a couple of years ago. Let’s say it’s not easy to forget. I was given a pair of car reindeer antlers by an adoring daughter who was sure she got me the perfect gift. I, gulp, put them on my car. Because it was the perfect gift. I was [...]
Read More »

Fox and Friends

By Coleen On December 20, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
It’s always fun to wake up early and hang out on the set of Fox & Friends! Love host Ainsley Earhardt! Check out the link: bit.ly/1GStNCB And look who I bumped into, Gov. Mike Huckabee!
Read More »

25 Days of Decorating: Merry Meters

By Coleen On December 18, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design, Uncategorized
Merry Meters! I love LA at Christmas!
Read More »

Hallmark Home and Family

By Coleen On December 17, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
So here’s one of the reasons we got to come to LA — to stop by Hallmark’s Home & Family. Cristina Ferrare & Mark Steines are so much fun! We talked about White House Christmas decorating and how you can get the White House look in your own home. We made these adorable 3D book [...]
Read More »

25 Days of Decorating: Rodeo Drive

By Coleen On December 16, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Mom Lessons
Got to show Maeve Rodeo Drive. For a teenager she was sufficiently impressed (although not as impressed as going to the American Apparel Factory. If she ever sends me the pic, I’ll share). Of course, there was no parking. She said we didn’t have to get out. Even though we had to park blocks away, [...]
Read More »

New Twist on the Charlie Brown Tree

By Coleen On December 15, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
We’re in LA for Christmas! My grade school friend Lainie had the cutest Charlie Brown tree…but with a total LA twist– holy light show!
Read More »

25 Days of Decorating: Books

By Coleen On December 14, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
Came across these great ways to use books in holiday decorating at the Junior League Show House in Princeton, NJ. Above, paper books are opened and tied with twine. Below, pages are torn from a book, and cascade down from the Christmas village. A library geek at heart, of course, I think this is genius. [...]
Read More »

25 Days of Decorating: Tim Gunn & Apples

By Coleen On December 13, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
At the National Archives, Tim Gunn told a really funny story about when he used fake, plastic apples on the White House Christmas Tree when he decorated for First Lady Rosalynn Carter. He bought them at Sears! He cringed, but said they looked great on the Blue Room tree. A few days later, looking through [...]
Read More »

National Archives: Red Carpet Photos

By Coleen On December 12, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Ok, that is a lie. There was no red carpet. But here’s my pics! Tim Gunn said it was perfectly fine I am wearing the same red dress over and over because it works, and it’s not cliche. That’s verbatim people! You know I really like Genevieve or I would never agree to stand next [...]
Read More »

National Archives : Holidays at the White House

By Coleen On December 11, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
The library geek in me almost died when the National Archives asked me to be on their panel “Deck the Halls: Holidays at the White House.” I didn’t even know it was on my bucket list! Here’s the link if you want to check it out: bit.ly/1B91ZBs Rounding out the panel: Tim Gunn (love him [...]
Read More »

MSNBC Decorating Adventures

By Coleen On December 9, 2014 · 3 Comments · In Christmas, Design
Ok…Adventures in Decorating is an understatement. MSNBC got me involved in some serious speed decorating! I loved it! I felt like I was on a reality show– decorate this beautiful NYC apartment in a hot second, with no ladder, no water! (that water part is a lie). It was like Survivor meets MSNBC’s The Cycle. [...]
Read More »

Smithsonian Institute – whoo hoo!

By Coleen On December 8, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas
The Smithsonian Institute!!! Geek girls unite! (ok, that was just an excuse to use the word “girl” to describe myself). But, I was really honored to be invited to speak at the Smithsonian. We talked about the First Ladies and even made First Lady ornaments.
Read More »

25 Days of Decorating: Feather Boas

By Coleen On December 8, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
White feather boas have been a staple on my tree since Maeve was a baby…that’s about 15 years! I guess if I love something, I really love it. Feather boas are super luxe and super fun at the same time. They are my favorite way to create snow on a Christmas tree. Next year I’m [...]
Read More »

Merry Monday: Vintage Fork Ornaments

By Coleen On December 7, 2014 · 3 Comments · In Uncategorized
Bring some Christmas cheer to your kitchen with these vintage fork ornaments.
Read More »

Bake Sale Life Hack

By Coleen On December 2, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Mom Lessons
Even if you love to bake, give yourself the treat of attending a bake sale this holiday season. Go for the home made cookies that are the most time consuming and add those into to your own holiday treats. Love those little church ladies who love to bake. They make us all look good.
Read More »

25 Days of Decorating: Showhouse Succulents

By Coleen On November 29, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
The most amazing thing I spotted at the Princeton Junior League Show House was this beautiful succulent banister. Most times, succulents give me a bohemian 70’s vibe I just love. But this banister banished that vibe. It was pure, high scale elegance. I loved everything about it — it’s originality, it’s creativity, and it’s Southern [...]
Read More »

25 Days of Decorating: Mantel with Mirrors

By Coleen On November 29, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design, Uncategorized
I have the privilege of working with DK Interior Concepts in my hometown to decorate a fabulous restaurant called The Yardley Inn for Christmas. I was on mantle duty. The Yardley Inn has amazing charm and we wanted to pair that with a very sleek look. We started by hanging three mirrors and accessorizing with [...]
Read More »

Charming Charlie

By Coleen On November 29, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
I’m not as Black Friday crazy as some of my friends, but these adorable doors just make me want to go inside and get something. I mean, if their taste in doors is this good, there has to be something in there for me! The store is Charming Charlie and it’s worth a trip just [...]
Read More »

Ziploc Holiday Post!

By Coleen On November 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons, Parties, Uncategorized
I was delighted when Ziploc included me in their holiday round up of experts. Oh, dear Ziploc you do not know how I honor you daily as I pack those never ending lunches. Thank you for keeping their fritos safe and dry, their chips from spilling all over their backpacks, and jelly from a squished [...]
Read More »

Oustide Thanksgiving Display

By Coleen On November 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
Outdoor Thanksgiving displays are simply pared down Halloween displays. Get rid of the the scary and keep the orange. I love this rusty, metal flower pot holder that I trash picked. (If I was being fancy, that would be “rustic” instead of “rusty.” But trust me, it’s rusty.) I found some Daisy Squash at my [...]
Read More »

Turkey Day Nail Art

By Coleen On November 25, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Brenna’s Turkey Nail! Better yet, she did it left handed. Gobble! Gobble! There are no limits with where this nail art will go!
Read More »

We’ve Got Turkeys!

By Coleen On November 19, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
I always smile when these turkeys come to town! Before the ice storm last year, I was rotting with turkeys. I didn’t have the space to display them all. So I’m extra thankful for these turkeys that survived. To make the display, I use tall glass vases and some white candle stick holders. If you [...]
Read More »

Merry Monday: Decorating with Finials

By Coleen On November 17, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
Have you ever wondered how to decorate with finials? Look no further! This is one of my favorite looks and I have been doing it forever.
Read More »

Junior League of Princeton Showhouse

By Coleen On November 16, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
The Junior League of Princeton was nice enough to invite me to their fabulous showhouse on November 15. I told them all about the First Ladies and they gave me lots of amazing ideas for Christmas….be showing you soon!
Read More »

As the Blog Turns

By Coleen On November 15, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Okay, we’re coming up on the one year anniversary of the ice storm that took our house out. It took ten months, but the unsound structure was finally knocked down. Even though its been incredibly sad and frustrating, this felt like progress…finally!
Read More »

Acorn Club

By Coleen On November 12, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design, Uncategorized
It’s that time of year again when I start talking about the design style of the First Ladies and won’t stop! I was psyched when The Acorn Club, located in Philadelphia, invited me to speak. The Acorn Club is the oldest women’s club in America. A group of women formed it when they got ticked [...]
Read More »

Merry Monday: Plastic Spoon Trees

By Coleen On November 10, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Another eHow challenge make a Christmas tree with plastic spoons.
Read More »

My Anniversary: The Wedding Dress Project

By Coleen On November 8, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Uncategorized, Wedding Dress Project
November 8 marks my anniversary, and it seemed like the right occasion to The Wedding Dress Project. Check out the video….fill you in more later. bit.ly/1uuKJdc
Read More »

Handy Kernels

By Coleen On November 8, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
What’s a girl to do when she spies a jar of popcorn kernels and she’s not quite sure how long they’ve been in the cabinet? Decorate with them of course. Glassware is the quickest and fanciest way to decorate. I grabbed two wine glasses, poured the kernels in and dropped in a tea candle. Presto! [...]
Read More »

It’s Hip to be Square

By Coleen On November 7, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
Square lamp shades continue to be my obsession. And a hot design trend. You can find them for table tops and even wall scones. These are from the super high end luxury lighting source Currey & Company. Something to dream about. Until then, I’m happy to hunt for the knock off versions in my favorite [...]
Read More »

Autumn Flowers

By Coleen On November 5, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
This caught my eye -how creative is this for an autumn flower display? The finished product is amazing. Love creative minds!
Read More »

Merry Monday: Holiday Headbands

By Coleen On November 3, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Uncategorized
Check out these holiday headbands I made for eHow. They challenged me to use a recycled plastic soda container and transform into something really cute!
Read More »

November Pumpkins

By Coleen On November 1, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
If your carved jack-o-lanterns are ready for the trash, head back out for November pumpkins. November pumpkins are sometimes on sale, and the easiest way to decorate for Thanksgiving.
Read More »

No color anymore, I want it painted Black!

By Coleen On October 30, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design
What’s Halloween without some black spray paint? I sprayed my pumpkin with black gloss paint, mixed it in with some fun white gourds, threw in some pipe cleaner spiders, and called it a done display. The slightly dying plant even fit right in! Loving the black & white this year!
Read More »

Halloween Decor: Deadly Flowers

By Coleen On October 29, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
One of my favorite things to do (ok, everything’s my favorite), is to mix things up. So of course, I dropped a big pipe cleaner spider (you can never have too many) right on top of these elegant flowers. Unexpected, and loved by everyone who saw them! (except for the guys who were like, “oh, [...]
Read More »

Ghosts in the Window

By Coleen On October 28, 2014 · 2 Comments · In Design, Uncategorized
The best thing about the hotel house (for those of you new to the blog, this is what I loving call the rental home we are living in while we try to figure out if we can ever rebuild our home), is that it’s pared way down. Only the stuff you need. All my decorating [...]
Read More »

Canal-o-ween – Show Time!

By Coleen On October 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
The last time we saw our pumpkins, they were on top of a pile of pumpkins that had been carved for a candlelit walk called Canal-o-ween. When it got dark, we headed out to Canal-o-ween to see how the whole thing turned out. We weren’t disappointed. Going back next year, with or without teenagers!
Read More »

Canal-o-ween: My little pumpkins

By Coleen On October 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Canaloween is an amazing idea! I heard about after it was over last year, and promised myself we’d go this year. Easier said than done, with two reluctant teenagers. At least my eleven year old wanted to go. You read it hear first, I am officially not dragging anyone to anything else. Those days where [...]
Read More »

Helping at Halloween

By Coleen On October 25, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Halloween is a really fun time to help your community. The Moonlight Trail in Montclair, NJ is one great example. It’s run by Van Dyke Health Care. It’s a moonlit walk through over a thousand carved jack-o-lanterns. Some spooky, some sweet, all for a really good cause. And it’s a great place to take a [...]
Read More »

A Little Black Chandelier

By Coleen On October 25, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
So this year’s Halloween decor started off with a box of cast of stuff from my Mom. In the box were a handful of black ornaments. Now, one the commandments that I usually follow is that ornaments are only for Christmas. But beggars can’t be choosy. I threw these up on the brass chandelier that [...]
Read More »

Boo!

By Coleen On October 23, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
Okay, this family gets lots of points for this guy. I loved his height, his burlap-like garb– basically everything about him. Just wouldn’t want to see him alone at night.
Read More »

Haunted Fireplace #2

By Coleen On October 18, 2014 · 1 Comment · In Uncategorized
Here’s another fireplace with great bones! Sorry, you know I can’t help myself. There’s nothing wrong with keeping Halloween decorating simple. This year it was part of the fun.
Read More »

Haunted Fireplace #1

By Coleen On October 17, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
It’s so easy to make a house with amazing architecture look scary!
Read More »

Merry Monday

By Coleen On October 13, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
Who doesn’t love a snowman pumpkin? Even though I’m sick of Frozen, I loved this!
Read More »

Olillo – Luxury Handbags with Soul

By Coleen On October 12, 2014 · 2 Comments · In Design, Uncategorized
Somethings in life are just worth paying for. An Olillo handbag is one of those things. If you haven’t heard of Olillo yet, you will. They just launched this week with seven amazing styles, designed by seven amazing women. Proceeds from each sale go to support the charitable causes of each woman. Can you say [...]
Read More »

Even more ridiculously easy Ghost

By Coleen On October 10, 2014 · 2 Comments · In Design
Along our October theme of having no time, we made this super easy ghost. (By we, I mean Brenna, age 11). Do I have to say it? Ok, I love him. Materials list: large styroam head, two packages of cheese cloth, and black paint. Bonus, I used a fifty percent off coupon on the styrofoam [...]
Read More »

Ridiculously Easy Halloween Spider

By Coleen On October 9, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
We love this little guy! When my youngest wanted to make a spider I asked her what she needed. Materials list: black pipe cleaners, two styrofoam balls, googly eyes, black paint. Now, I would have been tempted to make this more complicated. But why? He’s adorable, nice and big. We painted him black, used a [...]
Read More »

Fall Decorating – Phase One: Pumpkins

By Coleen On October 3, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties, Uncategorized
I love fall decorating! All of my fall decorating was down to science. I could get it done in record time, with time left to free-lance and be creative. Oh, how I loved my decorations and the system I had worked out. Then, we moved. Then, our new house flooded and was unlivable. (sorry dear [...]
Read More »

Things to try: Pumpkin Tower

By Coleen On October 1, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
This amazing pumpkin tower is on my to try list. It does mean making a new friend who can actually show me how to do it. I think it would be super cute in a school yard.
Read More »

#Watercolor Wednesday

By Coleen On October 1, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons
Life Rule #11 (ok, I just made that eleven number up. But, I feel like I should at least have eleven rules to live by at this point, right?). So back to #11: you must have art in your life. To do this, you must make friends with artists, if you are not lucky enough [...]
Read More »

Back to School Converse Nails

By Coleen On September 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
Brenna, age 11, is suddenly crazy for nail art. Sure our house smells like a nail salon, and we should have bought stock in nail polish remover, but I’m still loving it. These back to school converse nails just make me happy! Who knew, our back to school look wasn’t complete until we had these!
Read More »

Gracie’s Room: Great Way to Hang Art

By Coleen On September 19, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
You know I love art that comes home from school more than anything! So I was crazy about what my friend Karen did in her daughter Gracie’s room. Karen stole the idea from…herself! She used to be a teacher and this is how she decorated her classroom with her students’ work. She simply hung yarn [...]
Read More »

Wishing well

By Coleen On September 17, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Uncategorized
My favorite new thing this fall is my brother Dave’s wishing well fountain. Of course, he made it himself. (See Garden Gift Bags for more on him). I love that it is so rustic and fun, and nothing like the style of everyone else in our family. He made it from an old water pump [...]
Read More »

Woodsy Wedding Cake

By Coleen On September 16, 2014 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
My friend Liz Bushong of Serve it Up Sassy served up this fabulous woodsy wedding cake at a recent summer wedding. It would be perfect for fall too…just think flowers in oranges and yellows. Of course, my favorite part is the cake stand…nothing short of a tree trunk with moss. Divine. (I thought twice about [...]
Read More »

Decorating with Metal

By Coleen On September 14, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design
One of the hottest decorating trends Fall 2014 is metal. Don’t be afraid! You don’t have to be super modern to get in on the trend. If fact, I went a little old school eclectic when I decorated my bedroom dresser. I mixed a couple metal purses I’ve had forever, with some of those rocks [...]
Read More »

First Day of School Memories

By Coleen On September 2, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Parties
One of the best things about the first day of school is the memories you get to create. I absolutely love what my fabulous cousin Staci did chalking the word kindergarten in giant letters down her long driveway. And I think I just found my new favorite stylist in her daughter Carly Jane!! (Carly, I [...]
Read More »

When Teachers are Just Magic

By Coleen On August 31, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons
The first day of any school can be nerve wracking for kids and moms. Even the bravest kids get butterflies. My little cousin Carly Jane got a letter from her teacher that she was not allowed to open until the night before the first day of school. She was super curious to say the least! [...]
Read More »

Summer Musts

By Coleen On August 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons
Before summer slips away there are four things you must do: look at the ocean (not on your phone, in real life), ride a bike, look at the stars and catch fireflies. You get extra credit for chalking the sidewalk and blowing bubbles.
Read More »

School Hacks

By Coleen On August 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons
Back to School Hacks because I’ve learned a thing or two….(or stolen them from my friends). 1) Sharpie on a String. Oh, how I love my sharpie on a string. As somebody who can never find a pen, or one that writes, having a incredibly bold sharpie to put names on lunch bags, sign last [...]
Read More »

Ladybug Party Part 2: Savories

By Coleen On August 24, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
Of course, my friend Tommy Starling served amazing savories to go with the sweets at his daughter’s Ladybug Birthday Party. These were made with Babybel cheese. He used an edible black marker to make ladybug spots on the wax, added a halved black olive for the head, and finished it off with bean sprouts for [...]
Read More »

Ladybug Party: Sweets

By Coleen On August 24, 2014 · 1 Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
Who doesn’t want to go to a Ladybug party! My friend Tommy Starling pulled out all the stops for his daughter’s birthday. Sometimes you just have to splurge, like he did on the cupcake tray above, to really make a statement ( and save yourself a ton of time). But don’t worry, Tommy’s got plenty [...]
Read More »

Moving: Good-Bye Mugs

By Coleen On August 15, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Parties
Last year when we were moving, Good-Bye Mugs were one of those projects that really made me feel like I got it right as a mom. Brenna wanted to give her friends a little gift at the end of her going away party. Good Bye mugs were perfect because they allowed Brenna to feel connected [...]
Read More »

Garden Gift Bags

By Coleen On August 14, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
Who doesn’t love a good gift bag? It’s one of my favorite parts of party planning. I love giving them and getting them. I don’t even want to admit how much time I like to spend on them. Last weekend, my brother Dave came up with the most amazing gift bag, and I’m pretty sure [...]
Read More »

Summer Pies

By Coleen On August 8, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
The Red Barn in Hammonton, NJ is one of my favorite places to stop on the way to the Jersey Shore. I love looking at these pies as much as eating them! The presentation is so amazing, you actually feel guilty if you don’t eat them. Which is why I ate two myself this summer. [...]
Read More »

New Farmers Market

By Coleen On August 2, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties, Uncategorized
What’s better on a sleepy summer Saturday than a Farmers’ Market? I was so lucky to get there when the little flower ladies were setting up (actually they got lost and I gave them directions!), because I’m sure their beautiful flowers sold out! $5.00 a bunch, they were the deal of the weekend. Life is [...]
Read More »

July Resolutions

By Coleen On July 31, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons
One July day my youngest asked me, “Isn’t it time to make promises?” After some back and forth I figured out she was talking about New Year’s Resolutions. I told her we make those in January. To which she replied, “Well, I think we should make them in July.” I’ve decided she was right! It’s [...]
Read More »

New Favorite Way to Salt a Glass

By Coleen On July 30, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
Now that’s a salty margarita! I so love a salted rim, I can’t believe I didn’t think of this myself. This will be my new go-to!
Read More »

Summer Service Project: School Supplies

By Coleen On July 29, 2014 · 1 Comment · In Mom Lessons
When our home was destroyed last winter by a burst pipe, we were left with next to nothing. When it came time to go back to school, we had no computers, no books, no paper or even a pencil. It made an impression on all three kids to say the least. Taking a page from [...]
Read More »

Great Party Tip

By Coleen On July 24, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
Sometimes it just isn’t practical to have a party at your house. It’s just easier and more convenient for everyone to meet at a restaurant. That’s what happened when my friend Karen was moving. We met at a local restaurant, but my friend Susann made it so much nicer by bringing flowers in a bud [...]
Read More »

Parties: A Fun Way to Plate Cookies

By Coleen On July 7, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
It’s always fun to present something just a little bit differently. A plain plate of cookies was made more special with a few extra steps. I simply made a couple star cookies with a cookie cutter, put them on skewers and placed in a bud vase. The cookies were simple, the platter was simple (green [...]
Read More »

The Mrs. Weissenberger — A Fuzzy Peach Frozen Cocktail

By Coleen On July 7, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
It’s always great to make a new friend — especially when she tells you her favorite summer drink. Even better when the recipe is simple. Hence, the Mrs. Weissenberger. You only need three ingredients: fresh peaches, frozen lemonade and vodka. Grab your blender, throw in some ice, add the frozen lemonade, then fill the empty [...]
Read More »

July 4th Nails

By Coleen On July 4, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
Brenna upped the patriotic festivities when she painted her nails in honor of the Fourth of July. Stay tuned for more amazing nail creations from Brenna. Happy 4th!
Read More »

July 4 – Fun & Fancy Ice Cream Cones

By Coleen On July 2, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Parties
, Take an American favorite, the ice cream cone, and bring it to a whole new level. All you need are ice cream cones, vanilla icing, and red, white & blue sprinkles. Spread icing on the end of your cone, and roll in sprinkles. That easy you have a fun & fancy desert guaranteed to [...]
Read More »

Merry Monday – Easy Appetizer

By Coleen On June 30, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Parties
Okay, even my summer appetizers look Christmas, without trying I promise! I found this parmesan and spinach focaccia in the bakery section of my local grocery store, and at $4.50 it was too amazing too pass up. Pretty on it’s own, I dressed it up with a few fresh basil leaves and cherry tomatoes. I [...]
Read More »

July 4 Pinwheel Centerpiece

By Coleen On June 26, 2014 · 2 Comments · In Parties
This paper pin wheel centerpiece is super fun and super easy to make. You will need square scrapbooking paper in patriotic colors (one sheet per pin wheel), pencils, thumb tacks, mason jars, and red, white and blue gumballs. Make a diagonal cut at each corner of the paper, going towards the center. After all four [...]
Read More »

Merry Monday: Shell Wreath

By Coleen On June 23, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas
I still love this shell wreath I made a few years ago. I gave it to my mom and told her I was planning to buy her a shore house so she could hang it on the door. Oops! That didn’t work out. Maybe one day Mom… Anyway, the wreath is still great! It’s a [...]
Read More »

Summer Slings

By Coleen On June 15, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design
There are a few things I can’t resist ( ok, there are a lot of things I can’t resist), and a sign like this is one of them! Lured in by the fresh produce sign, I found these gorgeous flower slings, filled with impatiens flowers. The vertical shape is fantastic for any backyard.
Read More »

If Your Lucky Enough to be Invited to Liz’s

By Coleen On June 10, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design
My friend Liz is an amazing hostess. She always has the prefect touch to any occasion. Not so long ago, Brenna and I were lucky enough to sleep over, and found these little chocolates on our fresh towels! Of course, I also loved the wire ribbon tied around the towels — better than any Five [...]
Read More »

Merry Monday: Adorable Finger Puppets!

By Coleen On June 2, 2014 · 1 Comment · In Christmas
As a Lifestyle Expert for ehow, I get assigned topics to teach on camera. “Finger Puppets for Pre-school” turned out to be one of my favorites. I brainstormed with Brenna (my ten year old), and we decided to make our puppets using the running stitch and felt. For non-sewers, the running stitch is simply an [...]
Read More »

Favorite New Wine

By Coleen On May 31, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
I make so many mistakes buying wines I don’t like (maybe I should stop choosing them based on the design of their label!), that when I hit on one I really like, it’s like I’ve really accomplished something. My current favorite find is Dog Point from New Zealand. The label’s not bad either. Be sure [...]
Read More »

Projects to Try: Urban Outfitters

By Coleen On May 20, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design
My sixteen year old lives for Urban Outfitters. I could use a little more fabric on their shorts, but have no problems with their design inspiration. I love the oversize funky fitting room door they created by combining two vintage doors. If that’s too over the top for your style, how about this towel bar [...]
Read More »

Sweet Sixteen !#@*!

By Coleen On May 15, 2014 · 1 Comment · In Mom Lessons, Parties, Uncategorized
If I cursed, I might be cursing about now. How did my daughter get to be 16? I love and cherish her….but 16, are you kidding? And what happened? We somehow forgot to save for college, which is now just around the corner. And apologies about not being able to throw that big debutante ball! [...]
Read More »

Style Sisters: Watchung Booksellers

By Coleen On May 14, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
One of my favorite bookstores, Watchung Booksellers in Montclair NJ, was the first to host my sister Maureen’s new book, The Cocktail Club. Unexpectedly, we both showed up in orange, and after a few cocktails, people started teasing that we were the style sisters. (A few nights later, I showed up at a second book [...]
Read More »

The Cocktail Club is here!

By Coleen On April 23, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
The Cocktail Club is here! My wonderful sister Maureen Petrosky wrote this fabulous book just to make our lives more fun!!!! The launch party for the press was amazing. It was held at the Brooklyn Nite Hawk Theater (hipster heaven). The New York Times, The Food Network, Lucky Magazine and Family Circle all came to [...]
Read More »

Things to Try: Easter Bark

By Coleen On April 20, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
This White Easter Bark made me fall in love with jelly beans all over again. It’s fun and playful, and looks great on your desert table. Happy Easter!
Read More »

Spring Art Show

By Coleen On April 19, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Kids are great for inspiring creativity (that’s when they aren’t zapping it out of you!), and there’s nothing like a school art show to inspire, amaze, and plain make you smile. Here’s a couple of things that caught my eye this year, and left me amazed at imagination run wild. I mean, who wouldn’t want [...]
Read More »

Confirmation Thank Yous

By Coleen On April 5, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Parties
My son J. made his Confirmation this year, and we had a party to celebrate. (He’s 13). When it’s a special occasion, I try to think of ways the kids can participate in getting ready for the party. A favorite is having them help with the “take home” gift bag each guest is given. J. [...]
Read More »

Life Lesson: Birthday Bubbly

By Coleen On March 5, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Parties
If you learn nothing else reading this blog, remember you must have bubbly on your birthday. This year I was lucky enough to be served in a glass that had my “B” monogram — it had nothing to do with the fact the restaurant’s name started with a B.
Read More »

Vacation Finds

By Coleen On February 9, 2014 · Add Comment · In Design, Mom Lessons
Random things I found on vacation, that I loved, and that convinced me I need to go on vacation even more! And yes, my friends were horrified, that I gathered up about thirty pounds of these beautiful white ocean rocks, and packed them in my suitcase. I tried to convince them I knew just what [...]
Read More »

Life Lessons: February Bathing Suits

By Coleen On February 8, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Parties
Life Lesson not to be messed with: try on bathing suit in February. Yes, February. That’s when you still have enough time to maybe get it together for the summer. Try to stick to this rule. That’s when the bathing suits first hit the store racks, so you have more options. It is also the [...]
Read More »

Merry Monday: Vintage Christmas Glasses

By Coleen On February 3, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design, Parties
Bar carts are all the rage this year, but you can still set up for cocktails if you don’t have one. I found these vintage glasses at a yard sale, and they were just too cute to keep in the cabinet. I simply set them up as part of my Christmas décor. I found a [...]
Read More »

WINTER WALK EXTREME VERSION

By Coleen On January 26, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons, Uncategorized
Although we just moved back last summer, I grew up in Pennsylvania near the banks of the Delaware River. Never, ever did I see a winter that turned the river into a jam of ice. I knew this was a spectacular event, that might not happen again. My three kids were less convinced. They fought [...]
Read More »

Life Lessons: Winter Walk

By Coleen On January 23, 2014 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons
There are a few promises I’ve made to myself, and one of them is to take a walk after it snows (or while it’s snowing!), at least once each winter. The winter landscape puts everything into prospective– so you think I’d jump at the chance to pull on my boots, right? Not always so. Sometimes, [...]
Read More »

Easy Basketball Centerpiece

By Coleen On January 12, 2014 · 28 Comments · In Parties
I love decorating for sports themed parties with actual sports equipment. In this case, I made an easy centerpiece with a basketball and a glass pedestal vase. It’s always stunning to mix materials that you don’t normally put together. I filled the vase with curled ribbon in our team colors, added a few green leaves, [...]
Read More »

Mom Lesson: January Cookies

By Coleen On January 9, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Mom Lessons
If you’re like me, you might just run out of time to do everything you want to do before Christmas. That’s what inspired “January Cookies” in our house. I decided not to beat myself up when we did not get to make our annual sugar cookies before the big deadline. Instead, we just mixed it [...]
Read More »

Pine Branches

By Coleen On January 8, 2014 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
If you’re like me, you hate to see the Christmas tree go! So, I’ve come up with a little tradition to make the transition back to everyday life a little bit easier. Before our tree goes out the door, I always clip a few branches to use in a greens arrangement. ” This year, I [...]
Read More »

January 1 – New Adventures

By Coleen On January 1, 2014 · Add Comment · In Parties
I’ve had ties to Philadelphia my whole life, but never made it to a Mummer’s Parade. What a great way to kick off 2014 –doing something brand new. The parade was amazing…what was I waiting for?
Read More »

Happy New Year!

By Coleen On December 31, 2013 · Add Comment · In Parties, Uncategorized
When it comes to New Year’s Eve, I’m usually pretty low key. But this year, we joined all the fun and went fancy! Check out how amazing the ballroom looked: Jerry and I even stayed up past midnight! Way to welcome 2014! Happy New Year!
Read More »

Projects to Try : Succulent Wreath

By Coleen On December 28, 2013 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Design
I found this amazing succulent wreath hanging at Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, and put it on the top of my to-try list for next year. I love that it’s a full medallion, accented with tiny blue lights. Love!!!
Read More »

My Favorite Day

By Coleen On December 17, 2013 · Add Comment · In Mom Lessons
. I got a kick out of watching my teen age daughter get TV ready for her first on camera interview! Here’s the back story: This year, I was thrilled when I got to be part of the decorating team for First Lady Michelle Obama. I was even more thrilled when I got to bring [...]
Read More »

Made me Smile !

By Coleen On December 12, 2013 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Uncategorized
On my way home from the Home & Family set, I ran into this crazy balloon reindeer in LAX Airport. I’m all about stylish Christmas décor, but this tacky baby made me smile. Snapped a pic for the kids. Merry! Merry!
Read More »

Hallmark’s Home & Family

By Coleen On December 12, 2013 · Add Comment · In Uncategorized
I was so lucky to be invited to the set of Hallmark’s Home & Family. I have been a huge fan of Cristina Ferrare for years, and Mark Steines isn’t bad either. I was there to show them how to make Betty Ford’s Cranberry Tree. It’s a very traditional decoration — the White House had [...]
Read More »

Flowers for the Gov!

By Coleen On December 10, 2013 · 2 Comments · In Christmas, Design, Parties
The last two Christmas’ I have had the honor of helping to decorate the Pennsylvania’s Governor’s Mansion. This year I was on flower duty! 33 original arrangements for the gala that kicked off the Christmas season. The First Lady of Pennsylvania, Susan Corbett, chose some amazing peonies she wanted to be the star of the [...]
Read More »

CNN!

By Coleen On December 8, 2013 · Add Comment · In Christmas, Uncategorized
What girl doesn’t love a trip to NYC at Christmas? I was so happy when CNN invited on to talk about my book Christmas with the First Ladies. As a bonus I got to meet Grammy Award Winning violinist and conductor Joshua Bell. (And he’s really handsome!) You can check out my appearance on CNN [...]
Read More »

Crystal Ornaments for Your Tree

By Coleen On December 6, 2013 · Add Comment · In Christmas
It’s easy to give old crystals from a chandelier a new life as tree ornaments. Simply clean them with a mixture of water and ammonia, and attach either a pre-made hook or hang with green floral wire. Mix different sizes and shapes. Add a simple ribbon bow and watch your tree sparkle! How to Decorate [...]
Read More »

Traditional Citrus Decor

By Coleen On December 5, 2013 · Add Comment · In Christmas
Ok, if a fruit board was more than you are willing to take on this holiday, you can scale way back and decorate with a Citrus Plate. Still traditional. Still smells great. And it’s even more stylish. Mine is on a silver plate, but you can update the look by using a more modern plate. [...]
Read More »

Colonial Fruit Boards!

By Coleen On December 1, 2013 · Add Comment · In Christmas
Nothing says Christmas like Colonial Fruit Boards! They are a favorite of the First Lady of Pennsylvania, Susan Corbett, and this year we made them to hang over the front door of the Governor’s Mansion. The first year you make one will require the most time. You will need a plywood fan board, which is [...]
Read More »
 
  • Popular
  • Recent
  • Comments
  • Tags
  • Olillo - Luxury Handbags with SoulSomethings in life are just worth paying for. An Olillo [...]
  • Fall Decorating - Phase One: PumpkinsI love fall decorating! All of my fall decorating was [...]
  • #Watercolor WednesdayLife Rule #11 (ok I just made that eleven number [...]
  • Back to School Converse Nails Brenna age 11 is suddenly crazy for nail art. Sure [...]
  • Faux Marble Master BathSimple white towels made this monochrome master bath seem even [...]
  • Cherry Pie Valentine's Love LetterThis is the cutest idea that I got from my [...]
  • Natural EntrancewayNo one wants to take a tree down less then [...]
  • Transitional Christmas DecorAfter the holidays I like to strip down my decorations [...]
  • "I do! My twitter handle is @bycoleen"
    on Easy Basketball Centerpiece
  • "I do! My twitter handle is @bycoleen"
    on Easy Basketball Centerpiece
  • "Great article, exactly what I was looking for.|"
    on Easy Basketball Centerpiece
#lillyfortarget #pinksunday bridal shower Christmas dogs farm house parties porch tailgate wedding shower
 
  • Home
  • Mom Lessons
  • Parties
  • Design
  • Christmas
  • Wedding Dress Project
  • Contact