Category: Decor

  • TRAVEL | Destination Wedding in Costa Rica: Our Real Story

    The month of May marks an incredibly special milestone: six years since our unforgettable destination wedding in Costa Rica.

    To celebrate, I’m sharing how we planned it, the lessons we learned along the way, and why it turned out to be one of the most magical experiences of our lives.

    If you’re dreaming of getting married abroad, I hope our story inspires you to turn that dream into reality!

    Why We Chose a Destination Wedding

    We first had a traditional wedding ceremony back home, surrounded by everyone we loved.

    But deep down, I always dreamed of something different — saying “I do” with my toes in the sand, the sound of the ocean in the background, and a sunset painting the sky.

    Since our hometown sits right in the heart of Brazil, far from any coastline (and by then we were living in Panama), we decided to create a second, more intimate celebration.

    It would be a beautiful fusion of travel, love, and pure adventure, shared with just our closest family and friends.

    When I started researching options, places like Cancun and Punta Cana came up immediately. However, the idea of a “package wedding” — something mass-produced — just didn’t feel authentic to us.

    We wanted a celebration that felt personal, meaningful, and ours.

    How We Found the Perfect Destination in Costa Rica

    I literally opened Google Maps, zoomed into Central America, and started searching for boutique hotels.

    That’s how we discovered Casa Conde Beach Front Hotel in Liberia, Costa Rica.

    From the very first email, their team was warm and welcoming — even with my basic Spanish at the time!

    The hotel wasn’t a luxurious five-star resort, but it had everything we were looking for: a gorgeous beachfront, cozy boutique charm, and an authentic sense of hospitality that made all the difference.

    Fun fact: The massive resort next door was three times the price, but we genuinely loved our hotel even more!

    Planning the Guest List and Logistics

    One of the natural beauties of a destination wedding is the intimate guest list.

    We invited close family and friends — and 27 people made the journey to celebrate with us!

    Everyone paid for their own flights and accommodations, and we organized some fun group activities during the trip to maximize our time together.

    We also booked the hotel one year in advance and kept our guests updated with flight deals, itineraries, and packing tips.

    Communication is key when planning a destination wedding!

    To show our gratitude, we prepared personalized welcome bags with essentials like Band-Aids, facial masks, mini sewing kits, pain relievers, and cute Panama hats — a little nod to Playa Panamá, where we stayed.

    Vendors and Wedding Details

    We brought our own photographer and wedding planner from home, covering their travel expenses.

    For everything else — ceremony setup, music, catering — we trusted the hotel’s recommended local vendors.

    Two weeks before the big day, I decided to upgrade our ceremony décor and rent a new altar and furniture.

    Best decision ever.

    If something feels important to you, don’t settle. You’ll never regret investing in the wedding of your dreams.

    The Wedding Experience

    Our suite felt like a private apartment, complete with a kitchen, living room, two balconies, and breathtaking ocean views.

    The food was amazing, the service was top-notch, and the warm-hearted people of Costa Rica made us feel right at home.

    Each day included a mix of fun activities: beach luaus, group dinners, and excursions — but we still had plenty of time to relax and explore.

    It wasn’t just a wedding — it was a once-in-a-lifetime vacation surrounded by the people we love most.

    Looking Back on Our Destination Wedding

    Planning a destination wedding had its challenges, but every effort was worth it.

    It was authentic, joyful, and completely true to who we are.

    If you’re dreaming about getting married somewhere breathtaking, my advice is simple: Go for it.

    You don’t need a huge budget or a giant guest list — just love, good planning, and the courage to make it your own.

    We’ll forever be grateful for those magical days in Costa Rica — and even more for the beautiful life we’ve built since.

    5 Must-Know Tips for Planning Your Dream Destination Wedding

    1. Choose a Location That Speaks to Your Heart Don’t pick a place just because it’s popular. Choose a destination that feels meaningful and special to you.
    2. Visit (or Research Thoroughly) Before You Book If visiting isn’t possible, dive deep into reviews, videos, and real wedding stories to make sure the venue matches your vision.
    3. Keep Communication Clear With Your Guests Send regular updates, share flight deals, hotel information, and helpful travel tips early on.
    4. Hire a Local Coordinator or Trusted Vendors Whether you bring your own team or hire locally, having someone on-site to manage details is priceless.
    5. Remember: It’s About the Experience, Not Perfection Things might not go 100% as planned — but that’s the beauty of a destination wedding. Embrace the adventure!

    Looking Back: Would We Do It Again?

    Absolutely.

    Planning a destination wedding comes with its challenges, but it was worth every second. It was joyful, authentic, and uniquely “us.”

    If you’re considering getting married somewhere far away and magical, my advice is simple: Go for it.

    You don’t need a huge budget or a massive guest list — just a little bit of planning, a lot of heart, and a beautiful destination.

    We’ll forever be grateful for those five magical days in Costa Rica — and even more grateful for the beautiful marriage that followed. 💛

  • DECOR | How to Design a Cozy, Timeless Living Room That Reflects You

    As a designer with over 10 years of experience, I’ve seen one truth over and over: the best spaces aren’t the trendiest — they’re the most personal. A cozy, timeless living room doesn’t come from copying a Pinterest board. It comes from layering textures, mixing old and new, and making thoughtful design choices that feel like you.

    In this post, I’m sharing how to create a warm, character-filled space that will age beautifully — no trends required.

    1. Start with a Neutral, Character-Rich Foundation

    Neutrals aren’t boring — they’re grounding. But the key is to mix textures, not just colors.

    Designer tips:

    • Use textured fabrics (linen, boucle, cotton knit)
    • Mix warm and cool tones (ivory, greige, taupe, charcoal)
    • Layer natural materials (wood, stone, ceramics)
    • Go for large, neutral furniture that anchors the space

    2. Layer Meaningful Decor — Not Just Pretty Objects

    A cozy home tells your story. Choose art you love, display books you’ve read, and keep items that remind you of travels or family.

    Designer tips:

    • Add vintage or handmade touches (one-of-a-kind always wins)
    • Use sculptural pieces with imperfections (wabi-sabi beauty)
    • Avoid “decor store” overload — curate, don’t clutter

    3. Choose Comfort You’ll Love for Years

    Your sofa, rug, and lighting are investments. Choose quality, comfort, and simplicity over anything that screams “trendy.”

    Designer tips:

    • Opt for classic silhouettes in cozy fabrics
    • Prioritize dimmable, layered lighting
    • Go for plush rugs in calming tones

    4. Bring Nature Inside

    Plants, natural textures, and sunlight create calm and warmth — and they never go out of style.

    Designer tips:

    • Add greenery (real or faux — no shame!)
    • Use woven baskets for storage
    • Let in as much natural light as possible

    5. Curate Slowly — and Intentionally

    Timeless design takes time. Build your space piece by piece, and let it evolve with you.

    Designer advice:

    Forget the pressure to finish your home overnight. When you focus on comfort and meaning, your space will always feel right.

    Want to shop my favorite cozy living room pieces?

    👉 Check out my favorite finds below and see if something feels like a perfect fit for your home.

    Got questions about your space? Drop them in the comments — I love helping you bring personality into your home.

  • TREND | 5 Bedroom Décor Trends for 2025 You’ll Want to Copy

    The bedroom has officially become more than just a place to rest. It’s your sanctuary, your personal retreat, and in 2025, décor trends are reflecting exactly that. With the world navigating political shifts, climate concerns, and a collective craving for emotional comfort, interior design is embracing warmer palettes, nostalgic influences, and technology blended with nature.

    This year’s trends are rooted in coziness, understated luxury, and tactile materials — the perfect escape from the outside noise. Let’s dive into the five must-know bedroom décor trends for 2025.

    1. Warm Minimalism 2.0

    Minimalism gets a softer, earthier upgrade in 2025. Say goodbye to cold, sterile spaces and hello to warm neutrals, organic textures, and natural materials. Linen bedding, rustic wood furniture, terracotta accents, and soft layered lighting create a calming, inviting atmosphere without the clutter.

    Key elements:

    • Textured linen bedding

    • Warm, earthy color palettes

    • Terracotta and ceramic décor

    • Layered rugs

    • Abstract minimalist wall art

    Warm minimalism bedroom with earthy textures and natural wood furniture

    2. Quiet Luxury Glam

    The quiet luxury aesthetic remains a powerful influence in interiors this year. Think sophisticated neutrals, plush fabrics like velvet and cashmere, understated metallic accents, and refined silhouettes. It’s glamour without excess — polished, elegant, and undeniably cozy.

    Key elements:

    • Upholstered headboards

    • Soft neutral palettes (taupe, ivory, greige)

    • Velvet cushions and throws

    • Brass lighting and accents

    • Marble nightstands

    Quiet luxury master bedroom with velvet cushions and brass accents.

    3. Organic Modern Japandi

    Japandi — a beautiful blend of Scandinavian functionality and Japanese simplicity — continues to thrive in 2025. Clean lines, low-profile furniture, natural textures, and a palette of soft greens, beige, and light wood tones make this style calming and contemporary.

    Key elements:

    • Light wood furniture

    • Organic linen bedding

    • Large indoor plants

    • Minimalist wall art

    • Handcrafted ceramics

    Japandi style master bedroom with natural textures and indoor plants.

    4. 70’s Revival Sophisticate

    Nostalgia meets sophistication as 70’s-inspired design makes a sleek comeback. Rich earth tones like olive, burnt orange, and mustard pair with curved shapes, velvet upholstery, and geometric patterns to create a retro-modern vibe that feels fresh and stylish.

    Key elements:

    • Curved velvet headboards

    • Geometric area rugs

    • Wood paneling accents

    • Retro table lamps

    • Abstract wall art in warm tones

    Retro 70’s inspired bedroom with geometric rug and velvet headboard.

    5. Tech-Nature Escape

    In a world increasingly digital, bedrooms in 2025 are embracing smart technology seamlessly blended with nature. The result? A serene, functional space where biophilic design meets cutting-edge convenience. Expect hidden tech, smart lighting, and lots of lush indoor plants.

    Key elements:

    • Smart lighting systems

    • Voice-controlled devices

    • Indoor greenery

    • Wooden furniture with organic shapes

    • Soothing neutral palettes with sage greens

    Smart bedroom with lush greenery and smart lighting technology.

    👉 Check out my favorite finds below and see if something feels like a perfect fit for your home.

    2025 is the year of emotionally intelligent design — spaces that feel as good as they look. Whether you’re drawn to warm minimalism, vintage revival, or high-tech nature escapes, these bedroom trends invite you to slow down, curate thoughtfully, and make your personal space your favorite room in the house.

  • DESIGNER’S TIP | Best Neutral Home Decor Pieces on Amazon (That Don’t Look Cheap)

    Hi! I’m a designer with over 10 years of experience in interiors, and if there’s one thing I always tell my clients, it’s that your home should reflect you. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all trends — but I do believe a good neutral base is a smart, timeless starting point for any space.

    That said, the real magic happens when you layer in pieces that fit your personality, lifestyle, and the vibe of your home. So today, I’m breaking down how to use neutrals without losing character, and I’m sharing some beautiful Amazon finds that are neutral, stylish, and definitely don’t look cheap.

    1. Why Neutrals Make Sense (When They Fit Your Space)

    Neutrals — like soft whites, beige, gray, camel, and black — are great tools for creating calm, balanced spaces. They’re versatile, easy to mix, and make room for your personal style to shine through.

    But here’s the thing: I don’t recommend neutrals just because they’re trendy. They work best when they suit your home’s architecture, your lifestyle, and your own taste. A beach house in California asks for different neutrals than an industrial loft in New York — and your personality matters in that equation too.

    2. How to Build a Neutral Base Without Losing Character

    After more than a decade designing homes for all kinds of people and places, I can tell you — neutrals are not boring when you mix them the right way. It’s about playing with textures, finishes, and materials that feel authentic to you.

    Designer tips:

    • Layer different materials: wood, linen, ceramics, leather, glass.

    • Combine warm and cool neutrals to add depth.

    • Use natural elements like plants, woven baskets, or stone pieces.

    • Choose items that match your home’s vibe — whether that’s modern, cozy, coastal, or minimal.

    Your neutral pieces should act as a calm backdrop that lets your favorite artwork, books, and personal decor stand out.

    3. My Favorite Neutral Decor Finds on Amazon

    To help you get started, I’ve picked some beautiful, high-quality neutral pieces on Amazon that work in a lot of spaces without looking generic.

    👉 Check out my favorite finds below and see if something feels like a perfect fit for your home.

    You’ll find textured pillows, cozy throws, sleek lighting, soft rugs, and timeless accessories — the kind of decor that adds elegance without stealing the spotlight from your personality pieces.

    Bonus tip: Amazon has a super cool augmented reality feature for some products. It lets you visualize the piece in your actual room using your phone camera. I use it all the time when I’m testing scale and seeing how a color or texture looks in a real space. It’s a lifesaver to avoid those “I thought it would fit” moments.

  • DECOR | How to Style a Coffee Table Like a Designer

    Hi there! I’m a designer with over 10 years of experience in interiors, and let me tell you — a well-styled coffee table can completely transform your living room. It’s one of those little details that instantly makes a space feel intentional, cozy, and polished.

    If you’ve ever looked at those Pinterest-perfect setups and wondered how do they make it look so easy?, I’ve got you covered. Today I’m sharing simple, timeless tips you can use in your own home — whether your style is modern, boho, classic, or somewhere in between.

    1. Start With a Tray

    As a designer, I always recommend using a tray. It instantly gives structure to your table and keeps things from looking messy. Think of it as your anchor — a place to gather candles, books, or a small plant.

    Designer tip: Look for trays in materials that complement your room: wood for warmth, metal for a sleek touch, or marble for something classic.

    2. Follow the Rule of 3

    One of the easiest styling tricks is the Rule of 3. Grouping items in odd numbers (usually 3 or 5) feels more natural and balanced to the eye.

    My go-to combo:

    • A stack of beautiful books

    • A candle or decorative object

    • A small plant or fresh flowers

    It’s simple, effortless, and always works.

    3. Play With Heights and Texture

    A flat, one-note table feels uninspired. Mix objects of different heights, shapes, and textures to add dimension.

    As a designer, I love combining:

    • A tall candle or vase

    • A low, stacked book

    • Something organic like a wooden bead garland or woven bowl

    It keeps the eye moving and makes the setup feel curated.

    4. Keep It Personal

    Your coffee table should reflect you. Add a small object from a trip, a vintage piece, or something sentimental.

    I always tell my clients: A room feels more like home when it tells your story.

    5. Don’t Overcrowd

    As much as I love beautiful decor, negative space is your friend. Leave room for your morning coffee, a book, or a place to kick your feet up.

    Bonus tip: Some Amazon products now let you use their AR tool to preview how decor items look on your table. It’s a game-changer for checking scale and fit before you buy.

    ✨ My Favorite Coffee Table Styling Finds

    To make your styling even easier, I’ve gathered a few of my favorite pieces from Amazon — designer-approved, neutral, and perfect for any style.

    👉 Check out my favorite finds below and see if something feels like a perfect fit for your home.

    Happy decorating ✨

  • DESIGNER’S TIP | How to Choose the Perfect Furniture for Your Home

    Hi there! If you’ve ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through Amazon reviews or Pinterest boards, trying to decide which coffee table or accent chair deserves a spot in your living room — this post is for you.

    Let’s be honest: choosing furniture isn’t just about what looks good. It’s about how it feels in your home, how it fits your lifestyle, and how it complements the space you live in. So, let’s break it down together.

    1. Always Check the Reviews — and Read Between the Lines

    One of the best parts about shopping for furniture online is having access to real customer reviews. But don’t just look at the star rating — take a moment to read the comments.

    What should you look for?

    • People mentioning durability after a few months of use.

    • Comments on assembly difficulty (some pieces look amazing but are a nightmare to put together).

    • Feedback on the actual color and material in person (photos can be tricky).

    💡 Pro tip: Look for reviews with photos — they’re gold when it comes to seeing how the piece looks in a real-life setting.

    2. Measure the Room (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)

    It sounds obvious, but I can’t tell you how many people (including me, once!) fall in love with a beautiful dresser only to realize it won’t fit through the bedroom door.

    How to measure like a pro:

    • Measure the length, width, and height of your room.

    • Don’t forget the doorways, windows, and ceiling height if you’re considering tall pieces.

    • Map out the furniture footprint with painter’s tape on the floor to visualize how much space it’ll take.

    📝 Bonus tip: Leave enough breathing room around your furniture. A cramped space feels stressful, no matter how beautiful your pieces are.

    And here’s a trick I love as a designer: some products on Amazon let you visualize the item in your room using their AR (Augmented Reality) tool on your phone. It works surprisingly well! You just point your camera at the space, and the 3D model appears right there so you can check size, proportions, and how it feels in the room before you buy.

    Whenever possible, use this feature — it makes a huge difference and helps avoid those “why does this look so much bigger in person?” moments.

    3. Match the Furniture to Your Home’s Vibe

    Your furniture shouldn’t just look good — it should feel like it belongs in your home.

    Ask yourself:

    • Is my home modern, classic, boho, or mid-century inspired?

    • Do I prefer clean lines or cozy, rounded edges?

    • What colors make me feel good when I walk into a room?

    Once you have your vibe, shopping becomes way easier. And no, you don’t have to buy an entire matching set. Mixing different pieces within the same color palette or style family makes a room feel collected and personal.

    4. How to Search for Furniture You’ll Actually Love

    If you’re shopping on Amazon (or any big online retailer), use specific keywords.

    Instead of searching for “sofa,” try:

    • “mid-century modern velvet sofa”

    • “small apartment-friendly loveseat”

    • “coastal style rattan coffee table”

    The more specific you get, the better the recommendations.

    Also — create a Pinterest board or a saved collection of photos that capture the look you’re after. This makes it easier to spot the pieces that match your aesthetic when you’re browsing.

    ✨ Final Thoughts

    Furnishing your home should be fun, not stressful. Remember: it’s better to take your time and curate pieces you genuinely love than to fill a space with things that don’t feel right.

    I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite Amazon finds with amazing reviews and timeless style — check them out below and see if something sparks joy for you.


    👉 Check out my favorite finds below and see if something feels like a perfect fit for your home.

  • DECOR | Essential Items for Organizing Your Home

    If you’re anything like me, keeping your home organized is a constant project. As an interior designer with over 10 years of experience helping clients transform their homes, I’ve seen firsthand how the right organizing tools can completely change a space — and your peace of mind.

    In today’s post, I’m sharing my favorite, tried-and-true organizing essentials that I’ve recommended to dozens of clients over the years. And the best part? You can grab them all on Amazon!

    1. Storage Bins and Baskets

    Storage baskets are a game-changer — whether you’re corralling throw blankets in the living room, organizing toys in the playroom, or decluttering your closet.

    🛒 My pick: Woven Storage Baskets (Set of 2)

    Why I Love It:

    • Neutral, stylish design

    • Perfect for shelves, closets, or under the bed

    • Durable and easy to clean

    2. Drawer Organizers


    No more messy kitchen or bathroom drawers! These organizers keep everything in its place. I actually bought this one for my kitchen, and I’m already planning to grab a second set. I love that it’s adjustable and matches the exact color of my drawer, which makes everything look so clean and cohesive. Total game-changer!

    🛒 My pick: Organizer Kitchen Drawer Organizer Expandable Bamboo

    Why I Love It:

    • Adjustable

    • Easy to clean

    • Looks sleek in any drawer

    3. Shelving Units

    Vertical storage is key when you’re working with limited space. Shelves give you a place to store and display your favorite items without making your home feel overcrowded. Whether it’s for your living room, kitchen, or bathroom, adding a few shelves can instantly create more storage.

    Pro Tip: Open shelving can double as decor!

    🛒 My pick: Multifunctional Storage Rack

    4. Over-the-Door Organizers

    Maximize your door space with over-the-door organizers. Perfect for small items like shoes, accessories, or cleaning supplies, these organizers can be a lifesaver in bedrooms and bathrooms.

    🛒 My pick: Over Door Organizer Storage – Hanging Door Organizer

    5. Multi-Purpose Storage Furniture

    Furniture that doubles as storage is a game-changer. Think ottomans with hidden compartments, storage benches, or coffee tables with built-in drawers. These multi-purpose pieces help you hide clutter while keeping your space functional.

    🛒 My pick: Storage Boucle Ottoman Stool

    6. Closet Organizers

    Your closet can quickly turn into a chaotic mess without the right system in place. Closet organizers like hanging shelves, shoe racks, and adjustable rods are essential for making the most out of your closet space. Plus, they make it easier to keep everything neat and easy to find.

    🛒 My pick: Drawer Organizer Fabric Baskets

    Final Thoughts: Start Organizing Today!

    Having the right items to organize your home can make a world of difference. As a designer who’s helped many clients streamline their homes, I can tell you that the right organizational tools can truly transform your space. Whether you’re trying to declutter or simply keep your things in order, these essential items are sure to help you create a more organized, functional, and stylish home.

    Want to See All My Favorite Organizing Essentials?

    I’ve gathered every single one of my must-have organizing products in one convenient Amazon list — so you don’t have to hunt for them!

    🎉 👉 Check out my full Amazon Idea List here

    Ready to start? Check out the links above and get your hands on some of these must-have organizing tools. Trust me, once you start, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!

  • DECOR | How to Style a Bookshelf

    Looking to upgrade your home decor with a stylish bookshelf? Whether you’re a book lover or a decor enthusiast, this guide will help you turn a basic shelf into a beautiful, functional statement piece.

    Step 1: Define the Purpose of Your Bookshelf

    Before buying decor pieces or scrolling endlessly through Pinterest, think about what you actually need your bookshelf for. Is it:

    • A space to showcase your favorite book? (Click here to see my favorite)

    • A spot for your travel souvenirs and photo frames?

    • A functional divider between rooms?

    • A way to fill an empty wall or corner?

    When you get clear on the purpose, it becomes much easier to decide what kind of shelf to buy and what items to display.

    Step 2: Match Your Shelf to the Room

    The room where your shelf is located will determine what should go on it.

    • In the Kitchen: Use shelves to organize small appliances like a blender, stand mixer, and juicer, along with your favorite cookbooks.

    • In the Living or Dining Room: Showcase decorative objects, indoor plants, art prints, decorative boxes, and a drink tray for your home bar setup.

    Step 3: Stay True to Your Personal Style

    Don’t just copy a Pinterest picture or your friend’s living room if it doesn’t resonate with your vibe.

    The best homes tell your story — and that means adding pieces you love and things that spark joy.

    👉 Tip: Browse my favorite bookshelf styling ideas on Pinterest for inspiration.

    Step 4: How to Style a Bookshelf — A Practical Step-by-Step

    Ready to decorate? Follow these easy tips for a balanced, stylish shelf:

    1. Lay Out All Your Items

    Place everything you want to include on a table or the floor. It’s easier to visualize and select what truly deserves a spot on your shelf.

    Recommended product: Decorative storage boxes to hide small items.

    2. Balance Proportions

    Make sure to mix objects of different heights and sizes. Don’t place tiny decor pieces alone on a large, empty shelf. Use stacks of books or decorative boxes to elevate smaller pieces.

    3. Mix Books Vertically and Horizontally

    Alternate between upright books and horizontal stacks. A thick, hardcover book stacked horizontally makes a great base for a small decorative object on top.

    4. Add Indoor Plants

    A touch of green makes any shelf feel fresher and more inviting. If your shelf doesn’t get much sunlight, go for easy-care options like a Pothos plant or a Boston Fern.

    Place plants on the top corner or let them trail down the sides for a relaxed, natural look.

    5. Highlight Your Favorite Items

    Keep the pieces you love most at eye level. Whether it’s a photo frame, a unique sculpture, or a meaningful souvenir — these should take center stage.

    6. Skip the Candles

    Candles might look cute, but they’re not safe for shelves where you probably won’t light them anyway.

    Final Thoughts

    Your bookshelf should reflect your style, personality, and memories. Use these tips to turn it into a space that feels intentional, organized, and beautiful.

    👉 Shop my favorite bookshelf essentials here and start styling your shelf like a pro.