Chic Halloween Decor Ideas

As holidays go, I'll admit I put far less effort into the Halloween festivities as I do Thanksgiving and Christmas--I'm just not a fan of getting spooked (or the color orange, for that matter). I am, however, a fan of fun and revelry, so even though I'm not into ghosts and goblins, I'm thinking about putting up a few not-so-typical-Halloween decorations around the house. I've found some ideas that are subtle and chic, including a black cake pedestal that I'm completely obsessed with and a candle that is reminiscent of Beetlejuice.

A ridiculously chic cake pedestal that can be used yearround.

An Edgar Allan Poe inspired spin. 

Apple boxes that will look sweet when Halloween is over.

A candle that can work for other occasions...New Year's Eve perhaps.

Talon candleholders that are just creepy enough. 

Branches that lend an earthy feel to sleek taper candles and a mirrored tray .

Bats that look more whimsical than Halloween-y.

images via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Friday Favorites

For the most part, you'll never hear me complaining about long summer days. However, it's October and we are having a serious heat wave in Cali--I can't take it! I'm so ready to start wrapping myself up in sweaters and scarves, and dressing my little girls in cute little dresses with tights and boots. Needless to say, when we go to my nephew's birthday party this weekend, my two minis will look adorable in their dresses...and sandals. Have a wonder-filled weekend, and God bless!

Sweet DIY pumpkins.

Beauty tips from a French girl.  

The lips, the scarf, the coat...this entire fall look.  

These ridiculously stylish little boys. 

And since it doesn't appear that I'll get to wear boots any time soon, these sandals.

Thinking Pink: 7 Beauty Buys to Benefit Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Clockwise from top: Bobbi Brown Pretty Pink Ribbon Lip Gloss Collection    Bumble and Bumble Prêt-à-Powder for Breast Cancer Awareness    Sonia Kashuk for Target Proudly Pink 5-pc Brush Set    Pink Honey Marc Jacobs Limited Edition eau de parfum    essie Breast Cancer Awareness Nail Polish in 'Pinking of You'    eos 2014 Breast Cancer Awareness 3-Pack    AHAVA Mineral Hand Cream   
                
Aside from the romance of the season and the fun of Halloween, October is a time to recognize the breast cancer survivors in our lives and remember those we have lost to the disease. This month, I encourage you to wear pink to show your support of breast cancer awareness, and if you are able, make a purchase to help fund the research that will find the cure. I've rounded up a few beauty products, naturally (because I'm a junkie), but there are tons of other products available.

Create a Beautiful Fall Tablescape

Fall, with all its beautiful colors, crisp morning air, and golden sunsets, is finally upon us, and there will be plenty of opportunities to gather with friends and family to celebrate the season, express our love for one another, and give thanks. If you are planning a dinner party this season or hosting a holiday gathering, here are a few tips to help you achieve a gorgeous tablescape to impress your guests.

Jewel tones or monochromatic white or beige are a beautiful alternative to fall's ubiquitous oranges, browns, and rusts.

Transform your entire setting with metallic paint. Complementary shades of bronze, silver, and gold instantly turn a humble pumpkin or gourd into something extra special and glamorous. 

Skip the pumpkins if you're not into them. Pears, apples, grapes, fall leaves, fresh flowers or herbs, or even fresh artichokes can look really pretty for a fall setting.

Candles not only look elegant, they also create a warm, inviting atmosphere for your guests. Place thick pillars in hurricanes, burn tall pillars in pretty candle holders, or scatter tea lights along the length of the table.

Add a variety of textures and heights to create a wonderful sensory experience for your guests. Think plush, velvet placemats on rustic wooden tables or tall branches displayed in glass vases. 

In addition to texture and height, consider using prints in your tablescape. Tartan is a classic fall print, but stripes and florals can add a bit of whimsy to your table. 

A small take-away--like a pretty place card, small gift, or single-serving dessert in a jar--at each setting is a sweet way to thank your guests, plus it looks so pretty. 

images via 1, 2, 3

Must Have: Salt Block Cooking by Mark Bitterman

 Salt Block Cooking by Mark Bitterman, $25

After an entire summer of grilling everything from pizza to pineapple I'm ready to try something new and a little adventurous. I am extremely intrigued by this cooking technique; I've never had anything salt-cooked, but I can't wait to try. Have you tried salt cooking?