New Year Cards & Getting Organized

      Today’s post is sponsored by Minted, but my love for their products is all my own!

Happy new year (again) and as I write that, I actually can not believe we are well into January already, it's crazy right? At least now I feel like this past week I established a work order again after the two week . . .  (okay three week) hiatus I took to relax and recharge during the holidays. This Christmas season went fast for me and I no sooner got all of my decorating done and presents wrapped, then I blinked to find it over, just as quick. One of the things that I had to let go of over the holidays is sending out holiday cards to my friends and family. Some years I just can't even deal with it if I am feeling rushed or pressed for time and 2015 was ONE of those years. But once the holiday passed, I felt like I really missed out, so I decided to go ahead and do something about it and did something different . . . sent New Year cards! 

I have never sent New Year cards and I'm telling you what, after sending these out this past week, I think I may do this every year as I discovered a few things: I was able to take my time sending them, plus they will probably get noticed more (since they are not competing with all the other cards) and it's like sending a nice unexpected surprise for all to receive in their mail!


I chose my New Year cards from Minted and their selection is amazing, who knew that sending New Year cards was a thing? I think it's awesome, that the cards are designed from a community of artists that they have chosen because I for one, can appreciate that and would love to someday have one of my designs possibly listed! ;) Dream big right? But the choices were many and I love being able to upload my own personal photo and it will let you see what your photo looks like in the designs you are considering! It's great!! After playing around with a few different options, I narrowed down my choice by choosing a card design that people could cut the photo off of the top of the card and keep or frame, if they wanted. It's like getting double the fun with my design I picked . . . a card for now and then a photo for later!

A couple reasons you will love these cards: when I got these cards back from Minted, the finish on the cards was very matte and printed in thick cardstock which makes them very durable and not flimsy! Once you choose your design, you have options on colors as well - I enjoyed being able to match up the design and type with the colors in my photo. The hardest part of creating your own cards is picking out a great photo! I hired a photographer back in the fall to take some pics of my mom & dad for their anniversary gift and I jumped in real quick to get this one taken of me and my daughter and I am so glad I did. She is growing waaaaaay too quick and looks about eighteen in this pic (sigh) and she's only twelve!!! So when I needed a quick photo for these cards, I thought why not use this one? I love it, so will my family and it's one I will cherish forever!

Truth. I am one of those people who notice the little things, details, special little touches . . . so every time I get an order from Minted, they never disappoint on their packaging and branding, I mean look, Brian packaged my order and hand wrote it to me with my name . . . it's the little things! ;)

 

Since it's a new year and like everyone else, I am TRYING to get organized and start the year off on a good note, I decided to check out what else Minted had to get me organized and boy was I loving what I found! I'm one of those people who like to have numerous journals around for jotting down ideas when they strike. I also need to have a sketchbook of some kind nearby, to sketch out a design that I don't want to forget or want to put on paper to see if it's going to work.

One of my goals this year is to get all of my items organized with my business, to find places for everything, create a better brand awareness and to work the hardest I ever have on my BIG goals I have set for this year! I am definitely getting organized in style with these perfect pieces I found and ordered from Minted. My favorite part is that everything can be personalized how I want it. 

Check out what I found: 'the Great Ideas' journal is what I will grab to sketch out a new design or lettering idea which is why I had "EC inks" personalized on it as it will be used just for that! The two books with this happen to match (which rocks) and they have my business name on both. One is a journal that has lined pages in it for me to write down notes for my business and keep track of all of those lofty goals for 2016! ;) The other book is an address book. I had never considered having one for my business but it makes perfect sense as I have met so many amazing people who I like to send notes too or a small surprise every now and then, so this way all of those contacts have a place to call home in my new address book! Look at that . . . I am already MORE organized! ;)

I loved partnering up with Minted again this year as I truly do love their products and can't wait to use all of their journals and books to keep me organized this year! Have you purchased anything from Minted before? Let me know below as I would love to check it out!

Thank you so much for letting me share this product with you and for supporting the brands and companies that help support my blog! 

Are you loving the "eye candy" here?

Then join me over on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter & Instagram so you never miss out on an exclusive deal or any behind the scenes photos!

Check out my designs, artwork & decor in my Etsy shop! 

Looking forward to seeing you again! :)

SHOPPING :: IKEA finds [September edition]

   

Hey there everyone and welcome to the latest addition of 'IKEA shopping finds', which is what I share that caught my eye, on my latest trip to IKEA!!! As it is turning out, I've decided to update you on what IKEA is carrying about every other month for now, as you all know it is one of my most favorite stores and I am fortunate to have one within a half hour from me so ya know, I may visit it quite often.

I snuck in a trip the last week of September but haven't had a chance to share with you until now. While I was there, I couldn't believe that they actually had Christmas items out already! I may or may not have grabbed a couple things as their items go fast but I will be sharing all of the Christmas finds in a separate post for you in the next week. One of the reasons I love going to IKEA is that I can shop for multiple projects all under one roof because it seems that I always have multiple projects going on at home so it kind of works for me!
 
If you are curious what I found the last couple trips, feel free to check out my finds here, when I went in January, in May and also in July. Oh and I WILL be making another trip here in the next couple weeks because I may have been invited to an event there. Sssshhhh, I am so psyched for it and can't wait to share more deets about that, but more on that later! ;)

On this trip, I picked up a few items for a specific project I am working on, that I will be sharing here in the next couple weeks so make sure to come back for that. One of my favorite things about going, is that inspiration is everywhere, I am always snapping pics like nobody's business and am sharing it here for you! The cool part about that is I always have these posts to go back and look at even for inspiration for my projects since they change in the store every trip, I will always have them here. Enjoy my latest IKEA finds!

This area is a personal fave as I always talk about making my kitchenette area look like this but I already re-did it (which you will soon see). But loving the bench with all of the pillows that you could change out seasonally. AND those chairs - seriously fab!

How great would it be to actually have a kitchen, dining and living space that was open like this? If you have it already, consider yourself lucky. This is an amazing floor plan and loving all the ways they make it work together.

Love the soft color palette in this room set up. The lighting fixture is so amazing - almost brought it home this time but need to find a place first.

I honestly didn't 'notice' what they are using as a coffee table here until I was looking at these photos BUT I will check it out again when I return in a couple weeks as that looks like a great idea for storage + coffee table AND I just happen to be in the market for a new solution in my house. Looks like two storage bins put together back to back . . .  cool deal-io!

I am in love with the flooring in this room. Oh and the cute little cart here and those green lights -so much fun!

This table must be new as I have never noticed it before but how perfect is this table for family gatherings? Envision it all decked out for the holidays - it would be amazing!

A couple fun ideas here: the shelving on the wall, see how they utilized that space to put some wrapping paper = genius! I also like the way they stair stepped the shelves above the desk. Oh and I may 'need' those tall storage drawers on an upcoming visit, just sayin'.

If I had a need for a conference table and chairs, this would be an option. The chairs are so fun and that rug is the best! Love the shelving on the back wall as I did something similar to that for my gallery wall above my couch, that I will be sharing soon.

Check out that yellow chair - isn't it fab? Personally NOT my style but I thought it was awesome! And that table reminds me of my childhood in the seventies. Both work so well together. Very mod chic.

This closet! I mean . . .I can't even deal. Swooning!!!!!!

A very cottage feel to this set up. Perfect for someone who decorates with florals and gingham.

I kept seeing this new colored glassware everywhere and it is so pretty. I am totally getting a vintage feel with them and love the variety of colors they come in.

I really like the look here as I am feeling an industrial vibe with this whole raw wood bench and table, the black runners and if they just added some silver candlesticks or a bowl in the middle, it would be set. ;)

So many things I love in this photo. I love the light hanging over the table as I am looking for one over my dining table and the simplistic modern vibe of this one I like. And the dinnerware . . . plus I like the rug!!! Like a LOT!

Since I'm in the market for some overhead lighting, I spent some time in this department and these all caught my eye as the colors are awesome and the copper accents on this first light are so on point! LOVE!!

Loving all of the candles, fun boxes to store items in and the pillows!!!!

I spotted these bad boys on my way out and will have to check them out more on my next visit as I have some formal dining room chairs that could use a makeover and these would be perfect, I think.

Seriously? Isn't this wood cabinet like the motherload of storage? I love this and all of the tiny storage containers! LOVE!!!!! . . .you could use this for storage in so many different places.

I hope you will stay tuned to see what I do with some of my IKEA finds. In the meantime, here are a few of the posts I have done using products from IKEA:
- Creating a Mudroom
- Sneak Peek - Girls Bedroom Makeover
- How to Create a Gallery Wall
- Decorating with Vinyl
  

Have you visited an IKEA lately? What is one of your fave products that you have gotten from there? Let me know below as I would love to hear . . .

 

Are you loving the "eye candy" here? 

Then join me over on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter & Instagram so you never miss out on an exclusive deal or any behind the scenes photos!

Check out my designs, artwork & decor in my Etsy shop! 

Looking forward to seeing you again! :)

FREEBIE :: To Do List

You have lots to do every day. I get it, so do I. Some things you want to do, others not so much. But the one thing I NEED to survive the dreaded "to-do" list, is a fun & happy looking paper design to write on and then it somehow makes doing those things sooooooo much better! To do lists . . . love them or hate them? Hopefully what I have in store for you today will make that never ending 'to-do' list a little easier to LOVE!

I designed a list that you can print out for FREE, in the convenience of your home or office that will make creating lists so much more fun to look at! I used the yellow and gray color scheme because anything with yellow attached to it is going to make us happier right? ;)

You will receive three different yellow and gray designed sheets that you can print out as you need or print out enough sheets to make your own 'to do' list pad! This is a great gift idea for teachers at back to school time or even someone's birthday or holiday gift! Add a few fun pens or pencils and you have yourself a very thoughtful gift to give!

 

Don't forget to download the "TO DO LIST"!

 
**by clicking & downloading these freebies, you ARE agreeing to the RULES & copyright guidelines below! 

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 RULES for FREE DOWNLOADS:

• Eye Candy Creative Studio's printables are designed for your PERSONAL USE only. Please do not re-sell, re-distribute, or claim them as your own.
• I encourage you to share with your fans, friends, on your blog and all I ask is to PLEASE, {be kind} & post/ tag a link back to this website so I know who's enjoying them. Thanks - I appreciate it! =)
• And PLEASE do NOT remove the copyright mark - thanks!

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So HOW will you use these freebies? I would certainly LOVE to know. Just leave me a comment below telling me what you may be using them for . . .thanks!

 

Are you loving the "eye candy" here? Then join me over on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram or check out more designs in my Etsy shop!   
 
I would love for you to connect with me by email or become a blog follower too! {on the right sidebar}  Looking forward to seeing you again! :)

SHOPPING :: IKEA finds [July edition]

Hello and welcome to the latest addition of 'IKEA shopping finds', which is what I share that caught my eye, on my latest trip to IKEA!!! As you already know, IKEA is one of my most favorite stores and I am fortunate to have one within a half hour from me so ya know, we are kinda 'besties' now! ;)

This summer I have been trying to finish up a lot of big room makeovers as well as mini makeovers to different areas of my home.  One of the things I love about IKEA is that I can shop for multiple projects all under one roof plus their stuff is just awesome, let's just call it as it is, shall we? ;)

If you would like to see what I found on my last couple trips, feel free to check out my finds here, when I went in January and also in May. Oh and I WILL be making another trip here in the next couple weeks already since HELLOOOOOOOO . . . new catalog = NEW awesome finds! ;)

On this particular trip, I grabbed a couple items for a specific project I am working on, that I will be sharing here next week so make sure to come back for that. AND since inspiration is everywhere there, I was snapping pics like nobody's business and am sharing it here for you! Enjoy my latest IKEA finds!

Oh this kitchen . . . where do I start? I mean LOOK at all of the amazing WHITE everything!!! I love the lighting over the table which gives it a pop of color (btw- I have those lamp shades in white in my bedroom because they rock) and the wall treatment with the tiling and all the tiny details = LOVE! Plus look at those cabinets and the open shelving over the farmhouse sink! And the tile on the wall, so on point!

 

This storage cabinet was situated as an entry storage area and on the opposite wall was hooks and I believe a bench. Loved the wood doors on this unit.

One of my fave things that IKEA does and does SO well is make great use of every inch of an area and this photo is no exception. Next to the back cabinet they have these LEKSVIK hooks for hanging (which I bought for my project you'll see next week) and then here to the right of the door, they have shelving that works with this table and chairs. Loved this small area.

Lately I have been drawn to 'bar areas' at IKEA and it's probably due to the fact that I would love to find a way to incorporate one in my home but not sure where just yet. But hey there . . . love that shelving, which is new, on the wall to hold the glassware (which I bought one of those too) and I am loving the dark wall with the fun art prints, the white shelf that pops off the wall and the area underneath to mix up some cocktails.

This dining table was a new item and it caught my eye for a number of reasons . . . it would be great to give you the choice of more seating as it has the extra extension on the end plus it's done in a light wood color that could easily be painted a super fun color if you chose. Personally I love benches with dining tables too.

What a perfect idea . . . this table that attaches to the wall, giving you a different look for a table that perhaps sits in an entry way or hallway. This would work out so perfect in a tiny space and I loved the colors.

Not gonna say much about this except . . . LOVE LOVE LOVE this! And you guessed it . . . I may have bought this in the singular shelf option and I may have bought TWO of them to complete a storage area I am working on to hold all of my props I use for the blog and parties. ;)

 

I love circular mirrors in bathrooms and I love their bathroom cabinet section. They have some really amazing ideas for storage and I always get the best ideas in this area.

 

 

In my dreams is where I find me having a closet like this one. But in the meantime I will use as many ideas from this as will fit in the one I have. This closet just rocks!

This sweet little girls bedroom is so cozy and cute. I have always loved the daybed look for kids rooms and this one is fabulous. Lots of storage ideas and ways to decorate.

And what's a trip to IKEA without a visit to the party/paper goods section right? They always have such bright and happy items and on this trip this animals bunting was so cute!

I am pretty sure plum is one of THE colors for the fall season as I saw a lot of it there. Love the look of this room with the pop of color with the yellow cabinets. Oh yeah and that lighting over the table is so much fun.

One of my fave sections is always the art area as they have great framing choices plus tons of art prints to use. These were just a few of the NEW ones they have available right now. Oh and that post I'm gonna share next week may have some in it that I didn't show here. ;) If you like black 'n white whimsical art, then you will love seeing exactly what I have done!

This is the perfect idea for someone who would love to incorporate a small sitting area. Just add a shelf and it becomes practical as well.

and then I saved THIS for last. The brand new infamous candy bar!!!! Anything you could imagine is here and you just help yourself, weigh it and pay. I personally recommend the caramel banana candy - it was delish!

 
 

I hope you will stay tuned to see what I do with some of my IKEA finds. In the meantime, here are a few of the posts I have done using products from IKEA:
- Creating a Mudroom
- Sneak Peek - Girls Bedroom Makeover
- How to Create a Gallery Wall
- Decorating with Vinyl

 

Have you visited an IKEA lately? What is one of your fave products that you have gotten from there? Let me know below as I would love to hear . . .

Are you loving the "eye candy" here? 

Then join me over on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter & Instagram so you never miss out on an exclusive deal or any behind the scenes photos!

Check out my designs, artwork & decor in my Etsy shop! 

Looking forward to seeing you again! :)