Guest post- How To Light Up Your Garden!

This article is provided by Neil Maycock.

Lighting can completely transform any garden. It enables you to highlight key areas in your garden through the use of clever lighting. Gardens are lovely during the day but it is nice to be able to appreciate them in darkness too. You can really get creative and make your garden come alive at night. Here are some helpful tips and ideas for lighting up your garden.

Light up water features

If you have any water features in your garden you can highlight them with lighting. Then you can enjoy them at night as well during the daylight. Water looks particularly stunning when lit up in the darkness.

Conceal less attractive areas

If there are areas in your garden that are less attractive, you can hide them by being selective with your lighting. Keep them in the dark when the sun goes down. 

Be flexible

Try and be flexible with your garden lighting. It is quite nice to be able to adjust and adapt your lighting to suit different seasons. Keep an open mind and do not be afraid to change your garden lighting throughout the year.

Put lights in trees

Remember lighting does not just have to go on the ground. Lighting placed in trees can look beautiful and delightful. 

LED lights

LED light bulbs are far more energy efficient than standard bulbs. Your garden lighting will not only cost you less but it should last longer too.

Consider a lighting designer

If you do not know where to start with your garden lighting then you might want to get in touch with a lighting designer. They can advise you on the best way to light your garden and guide you through the process.

Spike lights

Spike lights are quite handy for garden lighting because you can easily move and adjust them to create a different effect.

Path lights

Illuminate the path to your house with lights that show people where to go. Not only is this useful it looks wonderful too.

Solar powered lights

Solar powered lights are a popular choice for gardens. They absorb sunlight during the day and light up when darkness arrives. They are an eco-friendly choice for garden light. They come in a variety of different colors and shapes and can make your garden look magical.

Outline flower beds

Using lighting to outline flower beds can look lovely. If you have put a lot of time and effort into creating a beautiful flower bed you might as well show it off. Highlight the most attractive areas of your garden with lighting.

Illuminate decking

If you have decking in your garden then you might want to fit some lighting around it. Put your decking area on display at night with lighting.

Lanterns

Lanterns can be used to illuminate gardens and they come in lots of different designs. Well placed lanterns can really compliment your garden lighting. Whether you want your garden to have an oriental, fairy tale or rustic theme there will be lanterns that will match the style you are looking for.

Underwater lighting

You can add submerged lighting to water in your garden. This creates a unique effect that really makes water features, ponds and swimming pools stand out.

Motion sensing lights

Motion sensing lights are useful for security purposes as well as general lighting. Feel more secure by getting motion sensing security lighting for your garden and the front of your house.

Book review- The New Braiding Handbook: 60 Modern Twists on The Classic Hairstyles!

You might not realized this yet but to be perfectly honest, I have always been mesmerized by beautiful hairstyles. When I see women with beautiful braids and up-dos, I always have major hair envy and would often wonder how they style them.

So when I was offered The New Braiding Handbook: 60 Modern Twists on the Classic Hairstyle to review, I immediately said yes! 

In the 135-pages book, author Abby Smith showed us 60 modern braids for all occasions. When she shared how she can barely style her hair at first but later decided to teach herself all about hair styling, she spent hours upon hours in front of her bathroom mirror trying to figure out how to do basic braids, I feel more inspired to learn. In her own words, she said, "This book is proof that if I could do it, so can you. I believe that styling hair isn't a talent. It's a skill."

I think she might be right. I am going to need lots of practice and try to master at least one or two of my favorite hairstyles to change the look of my hair, pronto.

Intrigued? Here is a sneak peek of the content you will find inside the book!

I love this fabulous book! This book is essentially a modern, wonderful collection of easy-to-recreate, gorgeous and versatile hairstyles for elegant formal events to chic, casual, everyday wear. Simple and straightforward, I find the step-by-step pictures and detailed instructions for creating beautiful braids, trendy knots, chic twists and playful plaits quite easy-to-follow! Valuable hair care and many hair styling tips were also included in this book as well. 

I can think of so many occasions one can wear the lovely hair styles from this book such as during proms, graduations, weddings, formal dinners, parties, special occasions, date nights, work places, photography sessions, etc. 

This is truly a good quality hair styling book, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about effortless looking, pretty hairdos!

*I have received this book to review for free but the views and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

You can get your copy here! Happy braiding!

And the winner of the giveaway is ..........

I am happy to announce the winner of the exciting giveaway brought to you by Decor Planet recently.

I used random.org to pick a winner and here it is! The lucky winner who will be receiving a $200 Decor Planet gift certificate is  

Carla Shiver!

Congratulations, Carla! I will send you an email soon. A big thanks to everyone who have entered this giveaway, I really appreciate your participation. I have lined up another giveaway for you in the near future, so keep checking back. Happy Thursday, my lovelies!

Stylish Ways to Improve Your Home Security!

This article is provided by Andre.

For many of us, we put a lot of TLC in how we decorate our home. Whether it is inspired from the ever-so-loved HGTV or your own idea, you have creatively constructed the ambiance of your home’s design. No doubt about it, you are proud of the way your home looks, so of course you want to protect it. 

Home security is an important facet of everyday living and is something no home should be without. Do not fret, securing your home does not have to get in the way of your artistic ways. Here are four ways to keep your home stylish and chic while simultaneously making it safe and secure.

Window Treatments

A phenomenal set of window panels can really set the tone of a room. In addition, they offer privacy from the outside world. Burglars tend to look about homes that have an open view from the outside so they can see the type of items you have in your home. When you put up blinds you are putting your creative stamp on your home while keeping criminals away from the things you cherish most. Of course since we are in springtime, you will want to enjoy some of that natural light, so getting a great set of blinds with those new panels are a viable option to let in the sun and keep out looky-loos. Talk about form and function; window panels have you covered with style and safety.

Exterior Lights

A well lit home can help deter a lot of criminals. Burglars want to draw the least amount of attention possible, so a low-lit home are night is a preferable target. Protect you and your home by installing lights outside. There are great options for keeping up with your unique style. Motion sensor lights are also a great option as movement activates them. Whenever something or someone moves within the sensor’s area, the lights will turn on shedding light on any unwanted guests. Not to mention, these types of lights are available in many different styles so you can still dress up your home and keep potential trespassers away at the same time.

Alarm System

Having a great alarm system is one of the best forms of defense you can have from a home invader. Of course having wires all around your home can be a bit of a fashion faux pas, but rest assured there is another way. ProtectYourHome.com offers the ever-so popular and multi-functional ADT alarm systems. This 24-hour wireless system offers you all day protection that is, you guessed it, discrete. By setting the alarm, if someone tries to enter the house without permission, the alarm activates and there will be an immediate alert to the authorities proving you can still have the style that you want with the protection that you need.

Cabinetry

You have the window panels and blinds but you really want to open the blinds and let the light shine in. It is perfect weather so it is understandable that you would want to take advantage. One great way to protect your assets is to get some beautiful cabinetry to store your items. 

Robbers look into your homes to see what type of belongings you have to see if it is worth looting. In case your TV, jewelry, and other valuable possessions in cabinetry that way they are not on display for the whole world. Would-be thieves will get discouraged because they are not able to see what items you have and will move on to another target. If open windows are a must for you, definitely go with some stylish cabinets to get you that added security.

You love your home and have put in a lot of time and money into making it your own. Being a homeowner gives you the ability to create a space just for you. No doubt you have many admirers when it comes to your superb taste. Unfortunately some of those admirers may want to threaten your home environment by taking what does not belong to them. 

Home security should be a priority to protect what you love. Of course, adding preventative measures does not have to dampen your sense of style. You can add security by getting window treatments, exterior lights, an alarm system, and cabinetry. When you take the extra steps in securing your home, you give yourself a peace of mind knowing that burglars will think twice about entering your home. Plus getting kudos from the neighbors on your décor does not hurt either; protecting your home never goes out of style.  

Guest post- Five Must-Have Tools for Every Home!

This post is provided by Jesse Hughes.

It does not matter if you are a do-it-yourselfer living in a cabin you built in the woods or a city apartment dweller relying on the help of the building super to keep your home together. Things are going to need to be repaired around the home, and you should keep a toolbox (or a kitchen drawer) stocked with a few essential tools. Here are five must-have tools you should have on hand for when you’re feeling handy.

1. Tape Measure. Before you can repair or install anything, you need to know just how big it is. A tape measure is useful for determining the width of blinds, the square footage of a wall for painting, or the size of a floor for an area rug. You can invest in a sturdy, ¾” wide 25-foot locking tape measure for well under $10.

2. Hammer. From pounding to prying, a lightweight finish hammer with a curved claw will serve you well for years. The curved claw will be helpful for pulling old or misplaced nails. A 16-ounce steel- or fiberglass-handled model for about $15 should do the trick for most jobs, available at all online hardware like Gotstock.

3. Screwdrivers. It is difficult to imagine getting anything done around the home without a set of screwdrivers. Parents of small children know that you can not even change the batteries in a toy without a Phillips head. A set of five or six flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers of various sizes should set you back only about $10. Or, if compactness is your priority, look into an all-in-one model with interchangeable bits.

4. Crescent wrench. Even the simplest plumbing fixes require a sturdy adjustable wrench. Get a set of two for about $20. This will give you a smaller wrench for the nuts on faucets and a larger wrench for stuck valves. The standard thumbscrew version will work just fine, but there are plenty of other options out there, as well.

5. Pliers. Nothing alleviates frustration more quickly than the right pair of pliers. For about $10, you can find a set that includes a pair of needle-nose for tight spots, channel-lock pliers for light-duty wrenching, and cutting pliers for snipping wires and opening packaging. Spend a few bucks more and get a set with a mini version of each to be sure you always have the right size.

That is a pretty good start if your toolbox or kitchen drawer is limited to only the essentials. But if you have more space and a bigger budget, consider adding a few extras to your toolkit. A utility knife is safer and sturdier than a kitchen knife and can be used to open boxes or cut through thick rubber or carpeting. A bubble level will eliminate needing to ask “does this look straight to you?” every time you hang a frame (it is also easier to use than the one on your phone). A putty knife is great for minor speckling jobs or scraping paint and glue. Finally, there is no replacement for a good old hand saw when you need to cut something.

Guest post- New Kitchen Trends!

This post is provided by Kirstin.

It does not seem too long ago when nearly all kitchens were pretty much covered in white, but nowadays things are much different. Now there is a trend towards brass accessories, natural materials and much more. Here are some trends to keep an eye on in 2014:

Metal Fixings

Kitchens are all about warmth and that is exactly why warmer metal fixings are starting to come in to fashion. In the past nearly every kitchen had cold stainless steel and so on but now people are starting to use a much more varied set of metals including brass and copper. Something as simple as using brass handle fixings can really make your kitchen stand out from the crowd.

Focal Point

Every kitchen should have at least one or two focal points. If you need inspiration when it comes to your kitchen’s focal point look, stand at your kitchen door and work out what areas attract your attention first. Is it the kitchen window? Or the center of the room, where you can find the appliances, either your cooker or hob? If it is the latter why not upgrade to a new appliance and then plan the rest of the room around it. An example of such would be a statement creating AGA cooker, or bold coloured oven, using the color from the oven as the accent for the rest of the room so accessorize wisely. Simple is definitely effective when it comes down to it and you will be in awe of the modern look that will be achieved.

Natural Materials

Using natural materials for things like your kitchen walls can make a huge improvement to the style of your kitchen. Although it is not the cheapest option available, more and more people are starting to rip apart their old kitchens to expose natural beams to give the kitchen a bit more life. If you are not lucky enough to be able to tear apart your walls to do something like this, you still have the option to build beams in to the ceiling though.

Guest post- Eight Ways To Reinvent Your Kitchen For Less!

This post is provided by Neil Maycock.

Reinventing your kitchen does not have to cost the world. You do not need to get an entire new kitchen to make a difference. Brand new kitchens can cost thousands and there are other ways to redesign and enhance your kitchen.

Before your splash out on a pricey new kitchen and spend all your savings, try some of the following ideas. You will be impressed with the results and it will feel as if you have a brand new kitchen, without the huge price tag. Here are 8 ways you can reinvent your kitchen for less.

1. Repaint instead of replacing

Instead of replacing old cabinets simply repaint them. They can look completely different with a fresh new paint of coat. Try a bright bold colour or go for gentle pastel tones for a more subtle effect. You can also paint creative designs onto cabinets and use contrasting colours to make your kitchen stand out. Better Homes & Gardens have some helpful tips here http://www.bhg.com/kitchen/cabinets/makeovers/

2. Create your own tile patterns

You can make your own ceramic tiles if you fancy a DIY challenge. However, this is not the cheapest or easiest option. Instead, try using stencil designs to enhance plain, budget tiles. Add your own creative touch to dull kitchen tiles and give your kitchen a totally different look. Tiles stencils are fairly cheap to buy and there are lots of different designs to choose from.

3. Use clever tools and tricks to make the most of your space

Sometimes simply making the most of the space you have can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Invest in some helpful space-saving tools such as space-saving utensil sets, collapsible kitchen products and storage products that are designed to save space.

4. Get new parts instead of an entire kitchen

If you have a bigger budget then consider getting new cabinets and parts for your kitchen. Daniel at Kitchen Warehouse said “Instead of buying a whole new kitchen simply enhance your existing layout with new drawers, a new sink or stylish kitchen doors and handles.”

You can pick and choose the parts of your kitchen that you want to improve and keep the things you are happy with. Custom designed drawers and new handles can really make a big difference.

5. DIY where possible instead of paying professionals

If there are any tasks you can do yourself instead of paying a professional then try and have a go. You can rope friends and family in to help, you might even know someone with some handy skills. You will find you are more than capable at completing simple creative jobs and basic tasks, and you will feel a sense of achievement after you have transformed your kitchen yourself.

6. Brighten up your kitchen with lighting

Lighting is an important part of any kitchen, it can really influence the overall look and feel of different rooms in your home. You can make your kitchen seem newer and brighter simply by enhancing your lighting. Use spotlights to highlight key areas and if getting lighting built in is not an option then simply use lamp shades to brighten up the room.

7. White paint

Giving your kitchen a fresh coat of white paint can make it feel brand new. Repaint areas that have faded over the years and if you have any white cabinets you can repaint them too. White kitchens naturally look open and spacious.

8. Declutter and clean

You are not going to get very far if your kitchen is a mess and it feels cluttered. You can instantly make your kitchen feel newer and refreshed by giving it a good clean. Get rid of all the old food at the back of the cupboards that you are never going to eat. Save space by throwing away any cutlery and utensils you do not need. You will feel instantly relieved and it will seem as though you are walking into a totally different kitchen.

Giveaway- $200 Decor Planet Gift Certificate!

Happy Memorial Day, my lovelies! Today, I have a fabulous giveaway from Decor Planet. 

Decor Planet is a company specializing in selling luxurious home and bathroom products including bathroom vanities, bathroom faucets, bathroom cabinets & mirrors, bathroom shower panels, and a variety of other contemporary bathroom items online at discount prices.

Here are some of my favorite bathroom vanities from their website!

Whitehaus 35 1/4" Large U-Shaped Console With Oval Bowl And Chrome Overflow

Cole+Co Marilyn 38" Antique Bathroom Vanity With Countertop- Designer Series Collection

Fresca Modello White Modern Bathroom Vanity With Ceramic Sink And Medicine Cabinet

Fresca Bellezza White Modern Bathroom Vanity With Solid Oak Woods And Ceramic Sinks

Fresca Opulento Walnut Modern Double Sink Bathroom Vanity With Medicine Cabinet

Avanity Windsor 72" White Antique Double Sink Bath Vanity With Countertop And Sinks

Are you drawn to their modern vanities or classic vanities? Your favorite?

Now that you have seen some of their fabulous offerings, let's get back to the giveaway! Decor Planet has decided to offer one lucky Mix And Chic reader a $200 gift certificate towards any item(s) from their website!

Not sure what you can get for $200 and under? Here are my picks!

Here's what you need to do to win a $200 gift certificate from Decor Planet!

This giveaway is open to US and Canada residents only.

To enter:

1. Be a follower of Mix And Chic via Google Friend Connect (click on the button located under 'Followers' on the right sidebar) and let me know how you will spend your $200 Decor Planet gift certificate if you win(with a link included). After you have done both, please leave a comment followed by your email so I can contact you if you win. (If your email can't be located, another winner will be picked).

 For example: I am now a follower of Mix And Chic via GFC and I would love to get this item if I win.

(enter link here)

(enter your email here)

(one basic, mandatory entry)

For additional entries (an extra entry for each of the following):

2. 'Like' Decor Planet on Facebook and leave a separate comment.

    

3. 'Like' Mix And Chic on Facebook and leave a separate comment. (If you are already following, please leave a separate comment to let me know as well.)

4. 'Follow' Decor Planet on Twitter and leave a separate comment.

5. 'Follow' Mix And Chic on Twitter and leave a separate comment. (If you are already following, please leave a separate comment to let me know as well.)

6. 'Follow' Mix And Chic on Pinterest and leave a separate comment. (If you are already following, please leave a separate comment to let me know as well.)

7. Mention this giveaway on your Facebook status (include a link back to this post and leave a separate comment.)

8. Tweet about this giveaway (include a link back to this post and leave a separate comment.)

You have a maximum of 8 entries.

The last day for entries is June 4, 2014. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced on Thursday, June 5, 2014. Good luck!

Guest post- 5 Steps to Redesigning Your Office Space!

This article is provided by Erica Bryant of Roomations.

With tax season behind us, now is the perfect opportunity to start fresh and spruce up your office space. Follow these 5 tips for a successful, design-savvy makeover month.

1. Switch out furniture

If you have it in your budget, replacing your current furniture is an easy update. Starting with your work space, a Parsons or cross base desk are two classic choices. Both stylish and functional, these desks generally do not take up much room, lending more space for the rest of your shopping list, such as seating.

Your desk chair does not have to follow the traditional prototype of having casters. Try opting for a chic, bamboo side chair. Make this a DIY project, and spray paint the base of your chair a high-gloss black or matte gold. However, if you are more comfortable in a chair with casters, a white leather task chair offers great back support and will complement your new desk.

Extra seating may also be important if you use your office to see clients and if your space allows it. In this case, a settee or a pair of armchairs will fill your space nicely without taking up too much room.

2. Get organized 

The secret to an efficient work space is staying organized. Built-ins are a wonderful edition, as you do not have to worry about buying individual pieces. Choose a designated wall and create a built-in that incorporates storage necessities such as shelving, cabinets and drawers.

A second option is to shop for storage systems. The infamous EXPEDIT shelving unit by Ikea is intended to make your life a bit easier as it offers answers to typical storage dilemmas. EXPEDIT is specifically designed to fit storage bins, magazine files, and letter boxes. Many retailers offer these types of small storage containers in various colors, with white being classic and most popular.

3. Find inspiration

To keep your creative juices flowing throughout the day, align your walls with matching frames holding inspirational quotes, Etsy prints and artistic photographs. Mount a picture rail above your desk to layer your frames and style decorative items and accessories such as zinc letters, a vintage trophy or a brass figurine.

To collect your thoughts and ideas, allow a mood board to serve as a space for you to place all things beautiful. Positioned alongside your desk or hung on an adjacent wall, let this board operate as a collage of your thoughts and beliefs.

And if you are feeling daring, give your walls a face-lift by choosing an accent wall to paint a bright color. Or for a true transformation, apply patterned wallpaper.

4. Re-arrange

Every so often, changing the angles in your room by swapping pieces out or moving your furniture around will give your room an entirely new look. For example, your desk does not have to be pushed against a wall. Face it outward for a better window view and change of scenery. Do not worry so much about cords showing as those can easily hide underneath a rug. You can even pull out a bookshelf to use as a room separator. Align it next to your desk, as low bookshelves can serve as extra work space.

5. Accessorize

Last, but not least, have fun with the details. The finishing touches of bringing in new décor will give your space a renewed life. To create a foundation, area rugs cozy up any space and with pops of color or graphic pattern, can offer the bold statement you may be looking for. Opt for more color with pillows, lampshades, or dramatic floor to ceiling curtains.

When it comes to lighting, task lamps are a trendy option, with chrome and brass being my top favorites. To add character to your space, hunt for one-of-a-kind table lamps at your local thrift store. And for an element of drama, hang a chandelier above your desk, as a true definition of a glamorous redesign.