Fall Patio Refresh

Fall is my favorite season.  Hands down.  I could have sworn someone was burning leaves outside the other day (ahhh that smell!) and my heart nearly skipped a beat.  Pumpkins, foliage, scarves, football, chili...I love it all.  But one of my favorite things about fall days are the temperatures--when it's a little cool in the mornings and evenings but perfect during the day.  Yes, that's what I'm dreaming about.  So even though we're still having temps near 100, I can't help but fantasize about relaxing on the patio during those cool, autumn days to come.  

If you're like me though, your patio may need a little love to revamp it from these long summer days.  And now is actually a great time to give your patio a little refresh.  Stores are ready to move out seasonal merchandise, which often leads to great deals.  You can use much of what you may already have and give it an update with a few key items.   Here's what I'm dreaming of for my patio facelift:

one /// two /// three /// four /// five /// six /// seven /// eight

1. Cafe lights add instant charm and give the perfect nighttime glow.

2. Pillows are one of the simplest ways to update a space, especially with one as beautiful as this.  Use your existing summer blues and add in some warmer tones and patterns to compliment them (see number 4).

3. Black and white stripes.  You. Can. Never. Go. Wrong.  Sophisticated and classic without being too stuffy.

4.  See number 2. :)

5.  These red tumblers are the perfect color for fall and the "seeded glass" looks so real you'd never know they are plastic!...which means worry-free for accidents!

6.  I've had a fire pit on my wish list for quite some time now.  I love that this one is open on the top AND the sides to offer the maximum heat for those chilly nights.  It's also great for s'mores and ambiance.

7.  You need a good tray for serving your drinks and food in style, and this one fits the bill.

8. Plants (and planters!) bring life to a space.  I love the unique shapes and heights of these offered at Crate & Barrel.

It doesn't take much to really transform your patio and make it a space where you'd love to spend time this fall!  

I've shared my favorites.  What's on your outdoor wish list this fall?

Mallory's Summer Favorites

Summer has officially begun, and it has me pulling out my old favorites and enjoying some new finds!  

Cookouts, pool parties and endless hours of daylight are what the doctor ordered, and I'm so thankful to have sandy shores right in my backyard (or close to it!).  Now that the season is in full swing, I thought I'd share with you a few of my summer favorites:

1. Bib Necklace- This ivory beauty makes a statement with any outfit.

2. St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse- My go-to for getting a summer glow without all of the harmful rays.  

3. Margaret Elizabeth Teardrop Bangle- Wear it alone or stack with your favorites, this bangle reminds me of a cool dip in the pool.

4. Straw Hat- A pool or beach must-have!...and less than $15!

5. Metallic Print Glassware, set of 4- These gold gals will make any dinner party a little more glamorous and fun.

6. Black Espadrilles- A staple great for casual wear or a summer night out on the town.

7. Skinnygirl Sangria- Check your local stores.  Sangria is the essential drink of summer, and this one is already mixed and ready to enjoy.  Toss in some fruit (for presentation) and you are set!  

8. Parker Pom Pom Shorts- Pom poms and a fun print.  Need I say more? Freebird Collection knows how to do it right.  These are on their way to my house as we speak!

9. Summertime book- Curated by photographer Joanne Dugan, it's a "photography book about the essence of summer."  AKA happiness on pages.

10. Red Stripe Party Straws- These cheerful, vintage-inspired straws make any drink a little more fun.

11. Driftwood Bar Cart- For a party on wheels that can withstand the elements.   

12. Bell Jar Drink Dispenser- You can serve your summer soiree drinks in style with this elegant dispenser.

Happy 4th of July from the 3A crew!  Have a fun and safe weekend!

My Summer Bucket List

I love lists.  To do lists. Grocery lists. Bucket lists.  But bucket lists are my favorite.  There's something gratifying about putting something down on paper that you hope to accomplish and being able to mark through it upon completion.

I've made my own bucket list for summer and thought I'd share with you guys for a little fun and maybe some inspiration...

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1. Read a book- Sounds like a simple thing, right?  But with a busy schedule and 7-month old, spare time is a thing of the past.  I do want to start to turn off the tube and turn a page though.

2. Dine outside- I'd love to make it a point to dine outside at least once a week.  I've got to take advantage of these long hours of sunshine and summer breezes.

3. Eat a snow cone- Why not?  They're refreshing on these hot summer days, cost very little and make you feel like a kid again.  I'm in.

4. Go to a farmer's market- Fresh produce, homemade finds and homegrown blooms all supporting locals.  Sounds like a good idea to me.

5. Plant something- Get inspired by the farmers and plant something yourself!  I'm happy to announce that I am growing my first ever plant--jalapeño peppers.  I love checking on my little guys and knowing that I helped create them.  Next up are some flowers for the front porch.  Let's hope I have just as much luck with them!

6. Make s'mores- They are the ultimate summer treat and oh so delicious!  Need I say more?

What's on your summer bucket list?