FIELD NOTES

Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Outdoor Entertaining Roundup

With Labor Day around the corner (I know, the horror) we wanted to share some ideas for an end of summer soiree. Gone of the days of plain old boring plastic cups! There are so many fun pieces out there to make your outdoor entertaining tablescape exciting yet durable. Here are just a few ideas to get the juices flowing.

  1. Portable Speaker: Waterproof and wireless, these speakers will take your backyard gathering and turn it into a party! High quality sound and long lasting battery these speakers will always come in handy.

  2. Tabletop Fire Bowl: This tabletop fire pit is all the ambience and none of the mess. It will bring the crackle of a campfire right to your table and is sure to impress your guests.

  3. Votive Candle Holders: These delicate votive candle holders will add elegance and warmth to your outdoor table scape.

  4. Outdoor Lantern: Outdoor lanterns are a lovely way to elevate a backyard into an entertaining space. Depending on the size, lanterns can be placed on tables or clustered and placed on the ground, near seating areas or around a pool.

  5. Flameless Pillar Candles: Electric candles are a great compromise for those who enjoy dinner by candlelight but don’t want to worry about a gust of wind ruining the evening. These candles are perfect for lanterns and can be turned on and off remotely.

  6. Citronella Hanging Incense: Bugs be gone! This Citronella incense burner will deter mosquitos and will not release a harsh, chemical smell. Plus, its color and shape resemble a piece of artwork or outdoor decor.

  7. Floral Placemats: These floral placemats scream summer dining! They are a fun and functional way to incorporate color onto your table. They are stain resistant and machine washable so don’t worry about those ice cream spills or ketchup stains.

  8. Outdoor Blanket: For when the sun goes down and the temperature drops. This cozy blanket is a generous size and is suitable for all of the natural elements. It can be transported easily for sunsets on the beach or picnics in the park.

  9. Melamine Dish Set: Plastic plates have come a long way in recent years. These melamine dishes have a subtle blue and white pattern and look exactly like fine china. They are perfect for an outdoor barbecue or a day at the beach.

  10. Paddle Ball Set: An activity is always a good way to keep guests entertained. Paddle ball is a game that requires a lot of hand-eye coordination but once you get going it’s hard to stop! These glossy wooden paddles also look very chic when placed by the pool or on a patio.

  11. Enamel Drink Bucket: Cool drinks are a necessity at any summer gathering. This white enamel container brings an elegant touch to a usually bulky and visually unappealing cooler. This bucket can also double as a towel holder or shoe bin.

  12. Beverage Dispenser: For when you want your signature drink to shine. This large glass beverage dispenser will make your homemade lemonade that much more appealing. It is also a great way to keep the bugs out of your drinks!

    *some affiliate links used

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Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Our Go-To Paint Colors

Choosing paint can be daunting so I wanted to share some of my favorite go-to’s with you. I’ve used each of these colors before (some many times over) and have found they tend to always look nice no matter where they are used. They can work well for both walls, trim, and cabinetry applications. Just be sure to use lower sheens on walls (I like matte or eggshell) and slightly higher sheens on trim (I like satin or semi-gloss). Of course, at times, these rules can be broken but this is a good rule of thumb for most applications.

One of my favorite methods for applying paint is to use a lighter wall color and a slightly darker trim color - for example White Tail on the wall and Agreeable Gray on the trim and cabinetry. It creates a lovely historic feeling and is slightly unexpected. Another trick I employ often is to paint the walls and trim all in the same color but vary the sheen on each. This creates a really lovely and simplified backdrop and will instantly make a room feel more custom.

When looking for the right paint color always test out a few options and apply them to several different walls in the room then look at them at different times of day. Morning, afternoon, and evening when the lights are on. You want to be sure the paint looks good at all times and not just at certain times of the day.

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Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Introduction: Elizabeth Orlian

We are excited to introduce you to our newest team member Elizabeth. She has been working as our design assistant since January and it is finally time for you to get to know her. Elizabeth has been around art and design since birth, she comes from a family of artists! She has an undergraduate degree in Biology and is currently completing a Masters in Interior Architecture from the Boston Architectural College. She is originally from Greenwich, Connecticut and her hobbies include; hiking with Cooper, baking, skiing, scuba diving and flower arranging. Some of her artistic inspirations are Louise Bourgoise, Kandinsky, Richard Serra, Gaetano Pesce and Richard Neutra. She loves to design with color, texture and whimsy and she is a wonderful addition to our team.

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Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Rattan Roundup

  1. Wicker Bowls: Wavy, wicker nesting bowls are a lovely way to jazz up your kitchen island or a perfect way to organize your entry console. Add some fresh fruit for an easy centerpiece that will elevate any table.

  2. Coaster Set: This coaster is a modern twist on the classic cane pattern. The contrasting black edges and hexagon shape are stylish and easy to incorporate into any space.

  3. Rattan Mirror: Handwoven, whimsical rattan mirror makes a statement in any space. Place it in your front entry or in your powder room, this mirror will certainly make you smile wherever it is installed.

  4. Flatware Set: Is there anything more perfect for a summer dinner party? This rattan flatware set will add beachy flair to any table. The timeless woven pink rattan can be matched or contrasted for a table that says wow.

  5. Woven Handbag: This tote can be dressed up for an evening affair or accompany a casual look for the beach. The bag is handwoven and therefore no two are the same. The large circular handles help differentiate it from a plain woven bag.

  6. Wavy Picture Frames: These wavy edge picture frames constructed from rattan are a wonderful way to add warmth and natural materials to your home. They can be placed on your mantle or hung on the wall, and they will certainly not disappoint.

  7. Tissue Holder: The colorful cardboard box of tissues does not need to be an eye sore in your space. A tissue holder is one of the easiest ways to make a space look complete. In this design, the woven material is encased in acrylic for a timeless look that will always be in style.

  8. Scalloped Tray: This playful wicker tray showcases scalloped edges and can be utilized for many things. It can elevate drinks at a party, hold books for a unique storage option and even be placed in a pantry.

  9. Table Lamp: This table lamp takes wicker to a whole new level. The design of this piece turns the wicker into a contemporary showstopper that will bring light and a fabulous aesthetic to any space.

  10. Pineapple Accessory: Not just an adorable decorative piece, this pineapple is functional and it opens for an opportunity to store small items. The wicker pattern and texture represent the fruit perfectly, and who doesn’t love a cute pineapple moment.

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Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Fathers Day Gift Roundup

  1. Linen Baseball Cap: An elevated version of a classic baseball hat that compliments any outfit.

  2. Striped Beach Towel: You can’t go wrong with an oversized and fluffy beach towel, especially when its paired with a bathing suit. Dad will be prepared for a beach day any day of the week.

  3. Father/Son Swim Trunks: Coordinated swim trunks will be a hit at any pool party and will make for some adorable pictures.

  4. Canvas Apron: For the grill master or the amateur chef. This heavy duty canvas apron has multiple pockets and will shield your clothes from the messiest of spills and splatters.

  5. Steak Knife Set: These will cut through the toughest of steaks with ease. Not only functional but stylish these knives boast an ergonomic handle made of ebonized wood.

  6. Leather Catchall: The perfect storage option for items that are easily misplaced. Can be put in an office, bedroom or entryway.

  7. Black Steel Key Chain: Stylish and functional keyring. A simple design that will be the perfect place to store the random keys lying around the house.

  8. Garment Bag: For the frequent flyer, this garment bag will keep your suits perfectly pressed while traveling. Bonus, there are zippered pockets that will keep smaller items from getting lost at the bottom of the bag.

  9. Air Pods Pro: A gift that any dad will enjoy, the AirPods pro will automatically connect to your device via bluetooth and the noise cancelling capabilities can provide any experience with tunes.

  10. Kiehls Facial Fuel: A beloved moisturizer that energizes and soothes skin. This product is a great addition to any morning routine and will have dad asking for the whole collection.

  11. Buck Mason Tee: A stylish take on a simple t-shirt, this Buck Mason tee has a curved hem and vintage wash.

  12. Lifestyle Sneaker: Comfortable and cool sneakers, these New Balance kicks come in a plethora of color-ways and have a unique textured rubber sole.

  13. Jogger: For the days when dad needs something comfortable yet presentable. These joggers are easy to wear and will look great no matter the occasion.

  14. Leather Dopp Kit: The perfect storage option when traveling. This kit comes in tons of colors and materials and has the option to be personalized.

    *some affiliate links used

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Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Mothers Day Gift Roundup

  1. Cotton Short Sleeve Pajama Set: Lightweight and classic, this pajama set is perfect for the summer months and never goes out of style.

  2. Disquette Slipper: This cozy suede slipper features a dreamy sheepskin lining and a 1” rubber sole to allow indoor and outdoor use at any time of day.

  3. Patrick Ahearn Design Book: For a dose of timeless and classical home inspiration look no further than Patrick Ahearn’s Timeless. Unique architectural details and wonderful pictures make this hardcover a welcome addition to any library.

  4. Sferra Throw Blanket: Warm and soft with a subtle herringbone and fringe detail will make anyone want to cozy up with this blanket.

  5. Antiqued Brass Candlesticks: A welcome addition to any tablescape, these candlesticks bring a dose of antique and weathered charm.

  6. Botkier Leather Crossbody: A statement crossbody that turns a simple white tee and jeans into an outfit!

  7. Wave Frame: Enhance a special photo with this soft and curved gold frame. It can be placed in any room and will be liked by individuals with many different styles.

  8. Menorca Strap Leather Slide: The perfect sandal for beach days or long summer nights.

  9. Lily of the Valley Trinket Tray: Splurge on this delicate and feminine trinket tray. A lovely and timeless dish to place jewelry or other small valuables.

  10. Cropped Cashmere Sweater: For the nights with a chill in the air, this neutral cashmere sweater is a welcome addition to any wardrobe.

  11. Sade Sneaker: Comfort and style meet in this fashion forward sneaker.

  12. Diptyque Berries Candle: A luxurious candle with a wonderful scent will make any mother happy.

  13. Mar Y Sol Tote: Wicker is always a summer staple and this large tote is no exception. The pom poms give it a youthful flair yet the leather handles and subtle stripe keep it mature. It can hold all of your beach essentials and will be enjoyed by mothers at any stage.

    *some affiliate links used

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