Jan 22

How To Survive Sharing A Bathroom

By Jenna Roden | Home, Inspiration

Whether it’s your roommate, sibling, or partner, sharing a bathroom can be straining on each other day to day especially when there are only 1-1.5 bathrooms in the house. Make use of your bathroom time without getting into hot water around the people you live with.

To make sure that you’re not that person who is known for being in the bathroom for 2 hours doing your hair, makeup, or shaving, then it’s necessary to use the bathroom for only the toilet and shower. The less time used in the bathroom, the more time for necessary duties in there.

Don’t store everything in the bathroom

It helps not waste time in the bathroom if the stuff you’re using in there isn’t in it. If there is a closet or designated storage area for towels, makeup, soap or tweezers outside of the bathroom, take advantage and organize it as best as you can.

Have Mirrors Throughout The House

Similar to not having everything all in the bathroom, that applies to mirrors too. Have mirrors throughout the house. This is an opportunity to consider investing in a bedroom vanity for makeup or the chance to spruce up your home decor with placing a couple of mirrors around the house. Mirrors help people get ready in the morning in other places of the house without the use of the bathroom. This helps clear up time for people who need to do what’s necessary for the bathroom while it doesn’t conflict with your own “getting ready” routine.

Coordinate Schedules

Align your schedule with the people you live with. Even with all these tips, mornings in the bathroom can still create quite a time crunch. Shower at night and there is no need to take up more time in the morning while people get ready. Stagger your schedule to allow time for each person to get their bathroom time. By staggering, you can plan and accommodate to your own routine.

From time to time, there may be no entirely functional way to share a bathroom with more than one person, but with the right way to organize, schedule, and with the help of a routine adjustment, it definitely is possible.

Dec 13

0

How to Maximize Flying in Coach

By Lauren Cook | DIY, Home

With the holidays rapidly approaching, it seems like the airline industry would be a pretty lucrative business. As if Christmas weren’t expensive enough – with buying gifts for family and friends (and maybe that cute co-worker) – buying a plane ticket seems inevitable, but usually isn’t something you splurge on. As you search on travel comparison sites trying to find the best deal, you usually end up with a coach ticket. “But I got a good deal!” At least that’s what you tell yourself as you board the back of the airplane and sit in a seat that could afford to be 10 inches wider.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you survive that coach seat and maximize your cost-effective travel experience.

Buy An Organizer

Whether it’s wrangling all your charging cables or trying to shove all your travel necessities into your small carry-on, it can seem impossible to have everything you need at your fingertips. Thankfully, some genius out there created a hanging airplane organizer so we don’t have to suffer. This “High Altitude Flight Bag” includes space for all your electronics, a built-in charging system, magazines and books AND it straps onto the back of the seat in front of you for incredibly easy access to everything you need.

Bring Your Own Snacks

No one likes a “hangry” passenger. It always seems that when I travel, I get on the plane feeling full and content, and about two hours into my flight, I start to wonder when the heck I’m getting some mini pretzels. This might seem like a no-brainer but remember to stuff your carry-on with snacks, so you can eat food you actually enjoy, on your own time. So what if first class is being served grilled chicken with couscous? You’ve got Skinny Pop and a Kind bar.

Invest in a Portable Charger

There is nothing worse than imagining your device dying right in the middle of Pride and Prejudice on your four-hour flight. Okay, there are definitely worse things to imagine, but that device can be a lifeline to entertainment, and without it, you have to resort to reading SkyMall – and wonder if you’d really use that gourmet hot dog roaster. Thankfully, there’s a ton of great portable chargers out there, like this one, that can power up to three devices at the same time with high-speed recharging.

Don’t Wear Bulky Clothing

As Shakira famously sang, “my hips don’t lie,” I am beginning to feel that in my soul every time I sit down in an airplane seat. I’m not sure if I’m getting bigger, or the seats are getting smaller, but it’s become downright uncomfortable to squeeze myself into these tiny coach seats. It can be annoying to constantly fidget, trying desperately not to have any part of your lower body touch the person next to you. In an effort to (somewhat) avoid this inevitable predicament, try wearing yoga pants or a light fabric on your lower half. This will maximize the small amount of wiggle room you have and, as a bonus, you won’t get overheated when you’re seated at the back of the plane next to a window.

Splurge a little

Yes, buy the $12 wine that comes in a plastic bottle! Here’s my philosophy: you’ve already done a fabulous job of saving money by purchasing your coach seat. If that $12 bottle of wine – although somewhat frivolous – puts you at ease and makes the flight easier for you, then by all means, do it. Thankfully, most flights have a full menu from which to order, with everything from tapas boxes to cheeseburgers.

Dec 03

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How to Revamp Your Christmas Decor on a Budget

By Lauren Cook | DIY, Home

Christmas time is here! Happiness and fear! Just kidding, the lyrics are actually “happiness and cheer” but I know when the holidays roll around, it seems like stress and fatigue are my primary emotions.

On top of making sure gifts are bought and Christmas cookies are baked, making your place look like a winter wonderland might not be your top priority. But, thankfully, you have me: I love design and decor — and saving money. Read on to get lots of little tips and tricks to help turn your space into a place that would make Santa proud.

Buy After the Season

After the Christmas rush, all the stores put on major sales, sometimes as much as 90% off. You’re definitely going to want to capitalize on these sales because, although it may seem odd to buy after the holiday ended, you’re going to thank your past-self for being frugal and organized.

Repurpose What You Already Own

This can be a really fun activity and all it takes is a little bit of craftiness. One of the best ways to repurpose Christmas decorations is by spray painting old ornaments to the desired colors. You can even use masking tape as a stencil to make stripes or designs on the ornament.

Another great way to update what you already have is by flocking your old tree. Flocking is the fake snow that can be added to a Christmas tree to make it look realistic and snowy. Is there anything better than that? It creates whimsy and makes the tree look brand new. Thankfully, it can be easily done at home and there are plenty DIY articles out there that can help. You can also buy flocking kits like this one, to make that old tree look brand new.

Use Trays to Draw Your Eye In

In the design world, it’s important to have a focal point for your eyes. That’s why centerpieces on tables, or in large areas, are so important. Without them, the pieces used in the decor don’t flow, or draw your eye. A simple tray, like this one, can keep everything tight and together for a perfect centerpiece. When working with these trays, play around with different heights. Maybe you want two Nutcracker figurines anchoring each back corner of the tray, with a long, rectangular sign that says “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas” in the middle, and pine cones or holly berry scattering the bottom of tray. Get creative with this one.

Shop at the Dollar Sections/Stores

As much as you might roll your eyes when you think about those discount stores and sections, they will actually become your best friend when you decorate. Don’t discredit the discounts. A lot of times, dollar stores will have cheap, fake flowers that you can use to make fabulous arrangements. You can even spray paint (noticing a trend?) these flowers to your desired colors. And, usually you can find unique little vases or boxes to put the arrangement in. What I love about this tip is you can really get creative and have fun with it. There are no rules, so you can just make them up as you go along.

Pick a Theme and Stick to it

Out of all of the tips I’ve shared, this final tip is a mantra in my life: embrace a theme. Pick something that anchors the decor and creates cohesion in the space. A theme helps you decide: silver or gold, polka dots or stripes, candy canes or gingerbread. It can honestly be a decorative lifeline. What I love about choosing a theme ahead of time is that you’re essentially creating a plan for the pieces you’re going to buy. Let’s say your Christmas theme is “whimsical winter wonderland” (how fun is it to name your theme?) and you want your primary colors to be silver and white with splashes of pastel colors as accents. It makes it that much easier to buy your ornaments, lights, and decor.If you’re not one to get the creative juices flowing, fear not. Inspiration is everywhere. Follow Pinterest accounts like this one and track what the Instagram bloggers are doing to their homes. You’ll be easily inspired to pick a fabulous Christmas theme that you will look forward to every holiday season.

Nov 12

1

Fun Ways to Keep the Kids Entertained When the Temperatures Drop

By Amber Ostendorf | All Posts, Cooking, DIY, Entertainment, Home, Inspiration

It seems like a constant battle for any mom: how to keep your kids entertained. When the temperatures drop, and the kids are stuck inside, it seems like an even bigger battle. Before you know it, cabin fever sets in and you are looking for ideas that will be educational, but also help to expend at least some of their boundless energy. Here are some of our suggestions on how to keep the kids entertained once the weather turns.

Cooking with the Kids

Inviting the kids to cook with you in the kitchen is a great way to educate and empower them, while having fun, quality time together. Not only can kids learn math skills like counting, fractions, sequences, measuring and forming shapes through cooking, but they will also learn problem solving, chemistry and can increase their vocabulary too. In addition, they will learn a valuable skill they can use throughout their life. The best part is: everyone gets to reap the rewards of your work together. Tacos and pizza recipes are perfectly suited for cooking with little kids, but why not combine them and make a Taco Pizza together? Yes, kids love macaroni & cheese. But, instead of reaching for another box, why not try making a healthier homemade version like Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese? And don’t forget dessert: S’mores Casserole is just as much fun to make as it is to eat. There are tons of recipes to try out here as well.

Get Moving Together

Often, when the temperature outside gets lower, so does our level of physical activity. The same goes for our kids as well. A lack of physical activity can not only slow down a child’s metabolism, but it can lead to an increased risk of becoming overweight, or obese, in adulthood. It can also lead to a host of other health issues like diabetes, higher blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and a more dismal outlook on life, according to KidsHealth.org. Encouraging kids to stay active even when they can’t go outside not only has several health benefits and helps them burn energy, but it’s also a great opportunity to create positive experiences and family memories. All you really need is a little imagination. A family dance party is not only tons of fun but requires very little planning. Have each family member pick out their favorite songs and start dancing. Take it up a notch by adding some fun dance lights, glowsticks, scarves and/or ribbons to wave around; or try adding a little competition to your dance party and make it a dance-off. Who doesn’t love balloons? There are endless ways to get the kid’s heart rates up with balloons, like balloon volleyball or balloon tennis. Clean-up time is usually a struggle, but how about turning it into a race? Put on a favorite song and challenge the kids to see how much they can put away before the end of the song. There are so many fun ideas & games to try, your kids might even want to stay inside to play when it is nice outside.

Get Crafty

Being stuck inside during the cooler months creates the perfect opportunity to bring out the craft supplies and get creative. Crafts are great for kids, not just because they are fun, but because crafts help grow self-esteem, creativity, imagination, STEM skills, problem solving and patience. Crafts also allow children to express themselves and communicate their inner feelings. Creating something and finishing a project that they can see displayed gives kids a sense of pride and delight in watching others admire their work. Instead of buying a bunch of decorations for the holidays, why not have the kids create the holiday decorations this year? Garland is a great project to help develop fine motor skills and can really bring out their creativity, because there are so many options. Try some of these: DIY Yarn Balls, Falling Leaves Garland or Washi Tape Christmas Trees. Or make some ornaments you can hang year after year like Silver Snowflakes, Popsicle Sled Sleds, or Jolly Elves. Photo ornaments are another type of ornament you will appreciate for years to come. Don’t forget to add names and dates so you can look back and reminisce when the kids get older.

Share A Smile

Have relatives or friends that live far away? A great way to spread warmth when it is chilly outside is to have the kids write letters or draw pictures to give to family, friends or anyone they want to make smile. Another idea is to call a local retirement center and ask if your kids can make some cards and crafts for the residents.

If they have some gently used toys they no longer play with, this is a great time to encourage them to donate to other kids who could use them. Not only will you be encouraging your kids to give to those less fortunate, you can also help reduce your toy clutter as well. Charities like Deseret Industries and Goodwill are good charity options, as they will either donate the toy to an organization for you, or sell the toy in their thrift store and serve the community in that way. Other charities may have specific wish lists or restrictions on the types of toys they can accept, so be sure to check with them before trying to donate. You can also check with your friends or coworkers with younger kids to see if they might appreciate receiving a toy. Have your child wrap up the toy and give it as a gift.

Aug 14

1

Closet 101: How to Make Your Wardrobe Organized, Beautiful, and Zen

By Katie Porter | All Posts, DIY, Home

Organization is overwhelming. Papers, clothes, toys, and books…it is incredible just how many things the average American household has inside it. We challenge you to quiet the noise of some of your own mayhem and focus on one impactful area this week: your closet. This is the place where you start your day and put on the armor and confidence you need to face whatever the world is going to serve you. Make that start purposeful by having a beautiful, zen space to keep your wardrobe. You’ll save time and stress; and you don’t have to break the bank doing it.

Make Everything Visible

There is a reason retail stores display all the inventory they have in such purposeful, neat stacks. If you do not see it, you will not buy it. Well the same is true for your closet: if you do not see it, you will not wear it. Who knows what incredible lost relics have been scooched to the back of your armoire? You may have incredible pieces that seem gone forever simply because you do not give yourself easy visual access to everything you have. If you don’t think you have the space to see everything, you probably have too many pieces. Consider pairing down.

Matching Hangers Are Your Friend

A simple change that clears a lot of visual chaos is to have matching hangers. We recommend thin, non-slip versions like these from Sweet Home, but really any matching set will do the trick. By removing the extra noise of mismatched colors and materials at the top of the closet, your eye naturally moves downward and focuses more on the actual clothing.

Use Containers to Maximize Space

Containers in general are always a good thing when it comes to closet organization, but again we would encourage you to go with matching sets. Think of your closet as an art gallery, and the clothing are the works of art. Everything else in the space should not compete, but rather bring your eye back to the fabrics. This simplifies your process for choosing outfits by making color-matching and memory recall of where things are placed a cinch. The only trick with containers is sizing is key. Take specific measurements of your available space and purchase bins that optimize is to the fullest. There’s nothing worse than getting geared up to tackle a mess only to realize the accessories you have don’t fit right or won’t do the job best.

Sort Your Sock and Underwear Drawers

Keeping with the idea of being able to see everything you have, make your drawers an easy-to-use area. We are obsessed with linen organizers like this version from The Container Store that give a place for every item and keep every item in its place.

Display Shoes Vertically

The most underutilized area in any space is what’s above your line of sight. Make a point of looking up and brainstorm how to best use what you have. Shoes particularly are perfect for this kind of storage as you can easily categorize shelves by occasion, color, or style and you’ll know just where to look depending on what you’re dressing for. You’ll be more inclined to seek out those green heels you never touch when you know they’re on the shelf with all your other green shoes.

Utilize Every Inch of Space with Clever Hacks

The back of your closet door, any wall space within the closet, and other parts of your bedroom are most like littered with spots you’re not quite sure how to fill. Get creative with your oddball items like scarves, camis, and jewelry by making storage systems out of these underwhelming wall spots. So often a few hooks will do the trick, but there are also plenty of easy-to-install products out there that will help you give everything a home.

Aug 09

0

Tips to Make “Back to School” So Much Smoother

By Katie Porter | All Posts, Home

There is something so blissful about summer. Lazy days, hours of outside time, and treats you can only get at their peak for a few months of the year. (We’re looking at you, watermelon.) But there’s also a relief for many parents as the beginning of school draws near. With all of summer’s pros, there are the cons to consider like a lack of routine, messy homes, and wired kids needing more intellectual stimulation. To make the transition positive for everyone in your household, here are our top tips to prepare for the “back to school” season.

Slowly Reintroduce a Stricter Schedule

Right now your routine may be a bit lax as you enjoy late wake up times and “eat-when-you-please” meals. Many families struggle with the sudden change school brings to rushed mornings and closely timed lunches. Avoid experiencing a huge shock to you and your kids’ systems by incorporating better habits progressively throughout the next few weeks. Inch that bedtime a few minutes earlier each night, and set wake ups just a bit earlier. It’s a good idea to check on your specific school’s lunch hour and breaks, to help your little ones’ tummies adjust to waiting a little longer for their next snack. Emulate the timing they’ll have at school as much as possible at home and you’ll all adjust easier when the time comes.

Get the House in Order

Pantries, medicine cabinets, entryways, and closets…these are a few of our least favorite things. For whatever reason the areas of the home that store the most important things also tend to become chaotic the quickest. Take inventory of your home’s biggest pain points and make yourself a list and calendar for tidying them up. By tackling one area each day, you’ll be able to get the place in an ideal state for a new routine without overwhelming yourself in one giant cleaning sweep.

Make Shopping a Fun Time for Everyone

You will have no problem finding great deals on kids clothes, shoes, and school supplies this time of year; but you may have some issue getting all 3 kiddos packed in the car, acting reasonable in the store, and leaving with everything you intended to get by the end of the trip. Turn some of that responsibility back on to your children…for older kids that can read, give them individual shopping lists for things they can look for while you help the younger ones. And make it fun for everybody by giving each child choices and a sense of decision-making in the process. You may need to steer them toward the three outfits that are appropriate and within your budget, but then allow them to pick the one they like! A little bit of personal style mixed in with your practicality guidance will go a long way in helping your kids gain excitement and confidence for school.

Coordinate Carpools and Extracurricular Activities Now

You may have had it all worked out in the spring, but things with kids change so quickly that it’s probably a whole new ballgame with each new school year. You may have teenagers transitioning to middle school or high school, perhaps the neighbor who used to do pickup for the elementary kids has moved away, or your nine year old is just insisting that he needs to play basketball this year and he’s no longer into soccer. Whatever the changes you anticipate to face this fall, get the logistics in order sooner rather than later. Visit orientation campus days, call neighbors to get car pools set up, and register for the coming sport season sooner rather than later. Removing the guesswork for your upcoming calendar will also remove a lot of stress.

Create a Command Central

Now that you have a family routine once again, the kids are set with new backpacks, and the house isn’t quite so disheveled…the rest of the year will be a breeze right? We wish. Set your entire crew up for success by having a central point of organization. Set up a central location for a full calendar, chore charts, important school papers, and even baskets or shelves for things like dance practice outfits and homework. By having all of these things in one important place, each person in your home will know where to look when they’re confused, and what to do in preparation for each days’ “excitement.” With some collaboration, organization, and teamwork—you’ll all get back on track for a fun and productive school year.

Jun 07

0

Utah’s Fabulous Vintage Decor Community

By Katie Porter | All Posts, Home

We all love a bargain. And let’s face it, interior decor can get real pricey real quick. At the same time, we all want our homes to be comfortable, beautiful, and a unique reflection of our own personal style. Jennifer Reed from Orem, Utah was facing this very problem years ago when she started to have a love of vintage and antique pieces…a passion she has now grown into a family pastime, business, and community project. As the owner of vintage decor company “3 Dotters Vintage” and founder of the “Provo Vintage Market,” she certainly knows how to be thrifty and get a good deal, while finding quality, unique items. She gave us the scoop on the best flea spots in Utah.

Best Places to Shop Antiques in Utah

Acorns Antique & Vintage Show in Ogden, Utah

This fun country show takes place at the Weber Fairgrounds and is usually riddled with real-deal antiques from farms, barns, homes, and historical sites across Northern Utah. If Victorian or Farmhouse styles are your jam, this show is definitely for you. This is also a great show for those with a knack for DIY or restoration. There are plenty of items to find that have already stood the test of time and with some creativity and elbow grease will continue to provide years of use.

Provo Vintage Market in Provo, Utah

Exclusively in the evening, this flea market founded by our friend Jennifer Reed of 3 Dotters Vintage focuses on serving the working population, students, and busy parents. Currently located at the Bright Building in Provo, Utah, the antique charm of the location speaks well to the handcrafted and quirky items inside. To know when the next show will be, check out their facebook page. Every season it’s a party with food, music, and Utah County’s best vintage and antique vendors.

The Market Beautiful in Salt Lake City, Utah

Formerly known as The Vintage Whites Market, 5 vendors, a stuffed garage, and a dream started what is now the largest antique/vintage show in Montana. The vendors now move across 5 different states, including Utah, and have incredible collections as they move across the Western United States. Learn more about the show’s organizers Jana and Vanessa on their blog.

Urban Flea Market in Salt Lake City, Utah

As one of the few flea markets that takes place in the state on a regular schedule, Urban Flea offers consistency in timing while bringing new and unique vendors every month. You can shop great secondhand pieces like vintage furniture and antiques; but you’ll also see local artists and craftsman selling anything from handmade wooden sculptures to fashion-forward jewelry. Check their website to see the schedule.

Photographs for this post were provided by Jennifer Reed @3DottersVintage

May 10

0

Fun with Mom: Activities to Make this Mother’s Day Memorable

By Katie Porter | All Posts, Entertainment, Home, Inspiration

It doesn’t take a big budget to make mom’s special day unforgettable. Try one of the activities we’ve listed and have a great time without breaking the budget.

Have a Picnic

This one is easy to plan and fun to execute. Throw a blanket in your car, stop at a deli for some subs, and you are ready to take mom out for a calm and relaxing afternoon. Pick a great spot near the woods or a river to connect with your mother and Mother Nature alike.

Do Something Adventurous

Everyone has something they’ve always wanted to do or try, and just keep chickening out. Mark off that bucket list item together. Sign both of you up for scuba classes; do the big roller coaster at your local amusement park; or try an exotic food for the first time.

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

Spend some time feeling nostalgic with your dear mother. Take her to a place you loved visiting as a child, go through old photos together, or make a recording of her talking about her own family history or childhood memories. You will learn a lot and feel a new sense of pride or understanding in your lineage.

Check Out a Museum or Art Gallery

Learning with someone else links you in a fun new way. Take in a new exhibit or visit the museum up the street you’ve been taking granted.

Get Active

It’s great to try new physical activities together, or simply add yourself to the mix of something your fit mom already enjoys. Try a HIIT class for the first time, or tag along on your mom’s run. Neither of you are exercise-inclined? Getting back on track with a new regimen as a team is a great way to bond!

Make a Night of It

If you’d really like to make this Mother’s Day a treat, a staycation or local getaway may be just the ticket. Cheap hotel rooms can be found online easily, even with a short notice, and you’ll definitely see a part of your hometown you wouldn’t experience otherwise.

Get Much Deserved R & R

Splurge for an all-inclusive spa day for two; or if you’re on a budget, set one up at home with DIY foot scrubs, face masks and manicures. The new calm and zen you feel doing something special for yourselves will be almost as good as the one-on-one conversation.

Help Her at Home

Is pulling weeds tough on your mom’s back? Or maybe she just hates dusting the top shelf of her curio cabinet. Volunteer for a job that your mom may not love doing and she will be sure to love YOU just a little more today. Accomplishing tasks together is also a great way to chat and reconnect. Let her have a seat and tell you about Aunt Cyndy or the neighbor’s dog while you achieve something for her.

Game Night!

Sometimes the best ideas are the most simple. Dust off the boxes in the game closet and pull out some classics to have a low-key evening. We guarantee Clue, Parcheesi and Uno are way more fun than you remember.

Give the Gift of Time

Time is often our most precious resource. Going all out and planning something for the two of you is lovely; but if you don’t have much else to give we’re willing to bet she’ll gladly take just having a few hours with you one-on-one as well. Stop by and visit without fussing too much. Hang out. Talk about your lives, watch a movie, help her cook dinner. Don’t overcomplicate it and instead focus those precious moments getting to really know your mom. You’ll be glad you did.

May 03

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Utah-Made Gifts to Show Your Mom You Love Her

By Katie Porter | All Posts, Beauty, DIY, Entertainment, Health & Fitness, Home, Inspiration

In case you missed all the incredible vendors we had at this year’s Salt Lake Women’s Show, we have gotten together a list of some of the best for giving your mom a great Mother’s Day. Take a look at these local merchants who do incredible handmade work right in your backyard.

For the Chronic Picture-Taker

She values memories above all else. Take the work out of it for her a get a professional to take photos of her and the whole clan. Pink Rose Photography does gorgeous work in Salt Lake and Utah Counties and will make your entire family feel comfortable and look beautiful.

For the Active Mom

Clothing: Get your mom some high quality workout wear from Belcorva. Perfect for runners, yogis, and weightlifters, Belcorva’s pieces offer versatility, quality, and unique pocket designs perfect for any busy mom.

Workouts: There is no better gift than spending time together. Register you and your mom a great activity to do together like a kickboxing class with I Love Kickboxing, HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) at Etude Fitness, or Barre Sculpt with Core 7. Working up a sweat together is a great time to bond.

For the Sweet Tooth Lover

If your mom is always happy with chocolate or strawberries, give her something a little different this year from one of these gourmet boutique brands. Sweet Tooth Fairy has cupcakes in every shape and flavor; while Farmhouse Fudge makes rich and decadent gooey goodness.

For the Mom Needing a Night Out

Today is the perfect day to try something new. Spice things up for your mom by sharing a great memory with her. Topgolf has a casual, super social atmosphere with the easiest golf you could play, food and drinks; and Painting with a Twist hosts evenings that give you a chance to get back in touch with your creative side.

For the Interior Decorator

There’s certainly no place like home, and if you’re anything like us, you know that part of home’s appeal is Mom’s unique and cheerful aesthetic. Check out handmade crafts from CB Creations, get some high quality paint from Chalk Couture for the Do-It-Yourselfer, support women from Kenya with Imani’s handmade home furnishings.

For the Mom Who Needs Some Zen

It’s no secret that being a mom is stressful. For the momma who has a lot on her plate, there will be nothing she’ll appreciate more than the chance to unwind. Set her up for some much-deserved rest and relaxation with a luxurious bath bomb from Bombin Baths, give her skin the royal treatment with products from Beauty Counter, and then finish with a new makeover utilizing locally made boutique makeup from Lemon Loves Meringue.

For the Fashionista

We all know that clothing is the trickiest gift to buy for others. These Utah home-grown brands provide great customer service, have modern, fresh takes on apparel, and make quality the highest priority. Your mom’s fabulous look will be covered from head to toe with hats from Gigi Pip, dresses from EmmaLou, and shoes from Copper Threads.

Mar 30

1

DIY Easter Eggs

By Katie Porter | All Posts, Cooking, DIY, Home

If you’re like us, you’ve had your fill of the run-of-the-mill grocery store egg dyeing kit with the weird wire holders, little tablets of egg dye, and cheap plastic egg cups. It’s fun and all, but you’ve probably thought for a few years now that surely there must be some better ways to jazz up this tired springtime ritual? Well, you’ve come to the right place! There is a better way! We’ve put together a great list of possibilities to bring your Easter egg game to the next level. Try one or all of these ideas to make this beloved tradition an artistic and fun venture once again.

Experiment with Natural Dyes

Many of us are working hard to make our homes a more organic and chemical-free place. So it just doesn’t make sense to throw that out the window once a year for a holiday tradition that could easily be given a natural twist. There are many recipes on the web for creating almost any color you need by dyeing your eggs with things like blueberries and red cabbage. You’ll enjoy peace of mind when your family eats the after-Easter egg salad because everything involved in the process was from the earth. If you want all the natural elements, but not as much of the work there are also some awesome natural dye kits from companies committed to organic ingredients and sustainability. We also love the muted, homey colors these natural dye alternatives create.

Pressed Flower Eggs

We love this creative idea with another organic twist. The steps are fairly simple, making this a great activity to include little ones.

You’ll need: mod-podge or non-toxic glue, small flowers, egg dye and nylon stockings. (Old or torn stockings are perfect, as long as they’re clean of course!)

Step 1: This project works best if you press your flowers for at least a few minutes under a heavy book on a flat surface. This can take place while you prepare the eggs.
Step 2: If you’d like colorful eggs, start by dyeing them as you normally would. These are also beautiful on plain white eggs so this step is not completely necessary if you prefer a cleaner look.
Step 3: If you’ve dyed them, wait until the egg is completely dry. Place a small drop of glue or mod-podge onto the egg. Attach your pressed flower(s) and press down firmly but gently.
Step 4: Carefully place each egg into a nylon stocking and tie off the end. If you have tall nylons, a perfect use is to cut them down to multiple sections and tie off both ends. “Reduce and reuse,” as they say!
Step 5: Allow the nylon-wrapped eggs to dry. The pressure from the nylon will keep the flowers in place. Remove the nylon with a quick snip of your scissors.
Step 6: If using mod-podge you can also reinforce the flower after the first dry with a top layer, depending on how long you’d like your creations to last. The finished product: stunning eggs with a unique and organic look.

Painted Eggs

Sometimes the most simple ideas are the best. Watercolor paints are particularly perfect for giving your Easter eggs this year a more crafty and personal touch. Check the labels to ensure the paint is non-toxic.. For less mess, you can also get creative with non-toxic paint pens, that don’t require brushes at all. Whichever method you choose, the possibilities are limitless! The design of your eggs is 100 percent between you and the paint.

Silk “Tie Dyed” Eggs

Yes you read that right. Dye your eggs with incredibly unique and intricate patterns using silk ties. Like the kind your husband wears to church. You can get old ties for a steal at thrift and second-hand stores, (we’re talking 75 cents) or just get your sweetheart to finally clean out his closet. You’ll want to ensure that the ties you use are 100% silk…it just doesn’t work with other fabrics.

Step 1: Cut out the back seam and lining of the tie so you’re left with a large piece of silk.
Step 2: Now, use it to wrap the eggs–you should be able to get 3-4 pieces large enough for an egg from each tie.
- Note: Unlike our other hacks, these eggs should NOT be pre-boiled. You’ll want to start with raw eggs. Just be cautious when you’re wrapping them in the fabric.
Step 3: To wrap, use the right side of the silk, i.e. the part you’d see on the front if someone was wearing the tie, to face the egg. Wrap it tightly and completely cover the egg, then tie off with a twisty tie. Repeat until all the eggs are covered with a glorious array of patterned and colored fabrics!
Step 4: Place all the wrapped eggs in a large pot of water. Add ½ cup of vinegar to the water and allow the eggs to boil 20 minutes.
Step 5: Pull the eggs out and allow them to cool. Once cool enough to handle, unwrap the fabric and behold the incredible impressions left on your eggs! Voila—Easter festivities are ready to commence!

Speckled Eggs

This is a quick and easy way to make your humdrum dyed eggs a little bit more interesting.

Step 1: Dye in the usual way and allow to dry, or leave white.
Step 2: Add about a cup of dried beans to a paper cup and then put in 15-20 drops of food coloring. Should the food coloring dry out, add a few drops of white vinegar.
Step 3: Cover top of the cup and shake the food dye and beans together.
Step 4: At this point you can take the eggs and roll them around in the beans to add a speckled effect.
- For extra fun roll in multiple colors, allowing each individual layer of food color to dry between rolls. The textured effect you end up with is very cute and cheery.

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