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The Story Behind the Laurier Blanc Logo

People ask me all the time where I came up with the name Laurier Blanc... (and I can’t tell you how many people actually call me Laurier in the gallery or Laura!  I secretly love this.)

The Laurier Blanc laurel leaves design for our logo originated from a piece of French antique iron that I found deep within the Paris Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, a market that has been operating since the Middle Ages (which is always a favorite hunting spot for treasures).  This was long ago when my husband Paul and I were living in London and were preparing for a move to Manhattan, New York and I wanted to collect a last few items from my favorite European markets before heading stateside again.

On a girls weekend to Paris via the Eurostar train, I headed off to the puces market early one weekend morning (with my usual espresso and giant pain au chocolat) and came across a wonderful antiques dealer that, to this day, I always search for.  There was a very tall, well built and handsome Parisian black man who spoke no English and, well, my French was pretty bad back then (I like to think the more I drink the better I speak). His stall in the Marché Vernaison was truly the most intriguing with his expertly curated & showcased collection of antiques, garden items & objets curiosités so beautifully displayed. Somehow we negotiated a fair price on this antique French iron piece for the garden that I simply couldn’t live without (where at the end of the transaction he gifted me a beautiful large tiger cowrie that he saw me eyeing as well! To this day, this sits on my desk at home). I find that French dealers will many times send you home with a small gift as a gesture of thanks when taking the time to talk and negotiate fairly.

The French iron garden art depicted laurel leaves and berries with a delicate ribbon that then came with us to New York and was later installed over the range in our first home we purchased when we moved to Houston.  A couple years later, I had a local artist make a drawing of the leaves (which I became enamored with) and we then printed on my personal stationary.  As time passed, the year that I turned 40 was the year that I decided to finally launch my vision in creating a destination where one could find a beautifully curated collection of interesting home decor pieces and gifts from markets and suppliers...Essentially a collection of my very favorite things from all over the world, both newly made, vintage, as well as antiques.  For the very first time in my life, I realized I could do what I really wanted in this world and crafted a way to make a business out of it.  

I knew I wanted to incorporate these laurel leaves design in some way while evoking a hint of the French origin and inspiration for the brand. The logo created by the artist was a white sketch of the laurel leaves with black edges.  “Laurier” is French for these laurel leaves and “ blanc" is of course white in French.  When starting to work with our dear friends and partners on the brand development, Seth Bruce and Mishelle Echeverria (now Bruce!) of CKO Digital, they suggested the font to add a modern edge to the brand…which of course fits perfectly!  

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Laurier Blanc Loves Jonathan Adler!

We are so excited that we’re carrying Jonathan Adler both in the gallery and online. This is a designer we’ve wanted to sell at Laurier Blanc for a while, so we’re thrilled to finally be able to do so!

If you’re unfamiliar with Jonathan Adler, he is an extremely talented and accomplished designer, who first sold pottery (after he left his day job to follow this passion) to Barney’s in 1993. From there, his career took off. 

His furniture, art, and accessories are truly gorgeous and stylish and add such fun and beautiful touches to a home.

His brand is unfussy, and as the Jonathan Adler team says, “We strive to create luxe and livable interiors that are seriously designed, but don’t take themselves too seriously.” And we agree completely!

If you have any questions about any of the pieces, please do let us know! You can find all below.

Bond Four-Door Burled Wood & Acrylic Console 

A Minimalist world of burled wood, acrylic, and stainless steel. Pieced, burled mappa between acrylic legs with stainless steel accents. Pieced veneer cabinet faces showcase naturally occurring patterns in the wood, and an adjustable shelf inside provides posh storage. With a fully finished back, this is a fab piece to float in the middle of the room.

Jacques Acrylic & Brass Console

The Jacques Console is the perfect blend of simplicity and glamour, modern and traditional. Crafted with crystal clear acrylic and brushed brass corners. Fitted with a low glass shelf for baubles or books, the Jacques Console works perfectly behind a sofa or looks fab in a foyer. Big presence, weightlessly transparent.

Ulu Brass Convex Side Table

Individually sand-cast and hand-polished by artisans in India, the Brass Ulu Side Table functions as an end table or a stool. Sculptural cutouts add mod appeal to this riff on the traditional taboret table. Add a dash of hippie and a dollop of socialite to your favorite room!

Bond Four-Door Burled Wood & Acrylic Console

Alphaville Accent Table in Honed Brass

Minimalist and modern, our Alphaville Accent Table features honed brass with a black glass top. Solid meets simplified. It's great as a drinks table next to a chair. Modernize a Park Avenue penthouse or add traditional elegance to a Tribeca loft.

Gold Carnaby Zebra Stacking Dish / Large Lacquered Jewelry Box / Malachite Black & Gold Ice Bucket / Tiger Valet Dish with 24k Gold Detail

Images via Jonathan Adler

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Feeling Florals

Spring is upon us, and we can hardly wait. With this glorious season of course comes blooming flowers, bountiful greenery, and oh so much sunshine. And there’s nothing bad about that, right?

Well, right now florals are on our minds. Whether in our home decor, our jewelry, or our art, this is the time for flowers!

So, keep on scrolling for some of the beautiful floral pieces currently available so you can bring florals inside and spruce up your house for spring.

Framed Antique Embroidered Religious Textile Fragment found in France

This beautifully made antique (late 1800s) textile fragment shows a metallic purple cross with gold, silver, and many other colors of embroidery, was uncovered recently in France. We had it framed in a very simple metallic frame which is a champagne tone that works with both gold- and silver-toned finishes or accents.

Framed Antique Embroidered Religious Textile Fragment found in France

This beautifully made antique (late 1800s) textile fragment shows a metallic starburst shape with colorful embroidery at the center, including flowers and the letters IHS, commonly known as a Christogram, which represents Christ. This piece was uncovered recently in France. We had it framed in a very simple metallic frame which is a champagne tone that works with both gold- and silver-toned finishes or accents. 

Handmade Decorative Floral Coconut Bowl from Thailand

These are wonderful metallic foil coconut bowls with hand-painted floral decorations we found in Singapore, which were handmade in Thailand. We've had a thing for foil coconut bowls for some time, but the decoration on these takes it to another level. Beautiful as a decorative piece, or use to organize small items around the home. Each one is unique.

Tulu Textiles Turkish Cotton Linen Throw Pillow - Inez Blue Floral

Based in Istanbul, Tulu Textiles has an extensive range of prints based on designs from across the ancient silk routes. This throw pillow is a cotton linen with piping edging and a hidden zipper. 

Other pillow available in the gallery. Coming soon online.

Turkish Delights Earrings: Kashmir Floral Pendants

A stunning and elegant pair of earrings handmade by our artisan friends in Istanbul, these  Kashmir floral earrings feature a floral pattern set with colored stones. Setting is hand-cast. Each pair will have a variance of tones in the natural stones. Two colorways to choose from: all red stones, or red and turquoise stones. 

Turkish Delights Earrings: Grape Leaf Drops

A chic pair of earrings, handmade by our artisan friends in Istanbul. These earrings feature a grape leaf motif. This is a simple yet eye-catching pair of earrings which could be dressed up or down. 

Handmade Decorative Floral Coconut Bowl from Thailand

Silk Floral Clutch with Coin Detail found in Singapore

This is a colorful, silk floral convertible envelope clutch with beautiful embroidered fabric featuring gold, red, green and blue threading. The interior of the bag is lined in a gorgeous, rich orange silk and features an interior zipper for the main portion as well as a zippered smaller pocket inside. The edge of the clutch flap features a coin detail. Magnetic and zip closure. Cotton shoulder strap.

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Focus on: French Finds

We’re popping in to tell you all about some of the fabulous finds we’ve brought back from France! Some new, some older, and all equally beautiful. Keep on reading...

1. Antique Brass Fragment (with couple using telescope) - A romantic scene has been cast into this darling brass fragment. The piece features a wonderful, detailed image of a man and woman using a telescope outside in a well appointed garden area. 

2. Antique Devotional with Ivory Cover - This is a very sweet and beautifully made devotional discovered in Paris. The cover is ivory and features an image of wheat and a cross. Inside, there are pages of text along with a handful of small engravings. The only date shown is for a commission in 1856, but it is not clear if this was printed at that time. 

3. Set of Six Framed Portrait Etchings of 17th Century French Writers - These wonderful portraits feature Madame De Sevigne, Florian, Marmontel, Bernardin de St. Pierre, LaSharpe, and Ducis. The edges of the frame are wrapped in a silvertone gilt paper which looks like metal. The glass and edging are somewhat distressed, which only adds to the character of this grouping.

4. Antique Brass Trinket Box with Woman’s Portrait - This is a beautifully decorated brass trinket box with a dark-haired woman's portrait on the hinged lid, under glass. The interior is padded and lined in what looks to be white silk. The outside of the box has a multitude of floral designs and details. 

5. Hand Painted Vintage Lavender Ceramic Dishes - A charming grouping of small, hand-painted ceramic dishes found in the South of France, featuring lavender sprigs and delicate details will add a touch of French Country charm to your decor. 

6. 19th Century French Louis XVI Fauteuil Armchair Covered in Cotton Muslin - This is a 19th century French Louis XVI fauteuil armchair with a beautiful gray and gold antiqued finish covered in white cotton muslin. The chair frame was discovered in France and brought back to the US where it was upholstered recently. Only the frame is original. There are brass casters on the front two legs of this chair. 

7. 1930s Rustic Metal Garden Table - This is a rustic painted metal garden table we sourced in northern France. The base is painted an off-white color with some light green as well as the rust color of the metal underneath. The top is painted in a medium green. The centre of the top does have a hole to accommodate an umbrella. Dates to the 1930s.

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Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! Whether or not you’re into this “holiday of love,” it’s a nice reminder to show the ones you love (whether your significant other or simply your best gal pals) just how much they mean to you. 

So, if you haven’t figured out what to get yet for the special ones in your life, keep on scrolling! All items are available in our gallery or online.

1. Kuhn Keramik “Lady” Footed Teacup 2. Kuhn Keramik Eiffel Tower Mug 3. Kuhn Keramik “Forever” Very Small Plate 4. Leopard Edge Tray 5. Bronze Leather Crossbody Bag by Clay Witt 6. Glass Nickel Paris Map Match Cover with Matches 7. Zebra Stacking Dish 8. Wide Cuff by Meyelo 9. Turkish Delights Earrings - Chandelier Drops 10. Oasis Necklace in Taupe - handmade in Egypt

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2018 Home Decor Trends

We hope your year has gotten off to a great start!

We’re always so excited to see what’s trending for the new year in the home decor category. It’s fun to see how ideas come back and evolve over time. 

Today we’re walking you through five of, what we believe to be, the hottest home trends for the year. These trends are according to the wonderful publication, Country Living, and we decided to make them our own with a Laurier Blanc twist on them. Enjoy!

Black & White: In our minds, black and white is a color combination to never tire of, but we’re thrilled to see it back in a big way this year. Whether in your accessories or furniture, style up your home with black and white accents for a very elegant and chic look. / Found at Laurier Blanc - SCOUT Washable Area Mats, Black Pascal Shell Chairs, White Pascal Shell Chairs

Brass: What’s more elegant and classic than brass? Brass has really made a come back in the home decor arena, and we’re excited about it. It can be seen on finishes, fixtures, and furniture, too, and we can’t get enough. / Found at Laurier Blanc - Jonathan Adler Ulu Brass Convex Side Table, Jonathan Adler Globo Drinks Acrylic and Polished Brass Side Table, Crystal and Brass Frye Lamp with Ivory Shade

Handmade Pottery: You know we’ve always been a fan of anything handmade, as you can see so many handmade items in our gallery, specifically pottery. So, it’s exciting to see this all over in the design world. Pottery never goes out of style, and it’s really neat to see how each piece is slightly different than the last. / Found at Laurier Blanc - Kuhn Keramik Small Footed Tea Bowl with Ship Design, Raffia Trim Pale Blue Glazed Bowls Handmade in Morocco, Handmade Moroccan Ceramic Hex Tray in Engraved White and Gold

Unique Dressers: A dresser or storage unit can really be more than just a functional piece. In fact, it can be a stand out piece and quite a conversation starter. It’s fun to see unique dressers taking center stage these days. / Found at Laurier Blanc - Sallora Dresser in Gold, Curved White Metal Chest of Drawers, Jonathan Adler Bond Four-Door Burled Wood & Acrylic Console

Natural: Natural pieces go with everything and take on a very cool vibe. Of course, it all depends what you mix the pieces with, but it can be beautiful to put natural with acrylic or metal or really anything in between. / Found at Laurier Blanc - Cullen Iron and Wood Orb Lamp, Barkeep Wood and Acrylic Tool Set, 1920s Distressed Wood and Metal Garden and Bistro Table found in Northern France

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Let’s Get Organized

Happy New Year!! We hope you’ve had an incredible start to 2018. We’re one week in, and we’re definitely ready to tackle all that’s ahead this year. 

Of course, what comes to mind when thinking about this clean slate is not just fitness and wellness goals, but major organization objectives, too. In order to ensure that clean slate and fresh start, getting things in order in your home and office is of vital importance (or so we think)!

See below for some of our favorite items from the gallery that can be helpful for organizing without sacrificing style at all, along with some tips on how to do so.

Here’s to a great 2018!

from left to right - 

Large Lacquered Jewelry Box: Is your jewelry scattered everywhere and in one big jumbled mess? Get yourself a beautiful jewelry box that you’ll not only enjoy looking at and love as decor, but it’ll also keep your finest baubles organized. 

Eyes Valet Dish with 24k Gold Detail: Another option for organizing your dainty items is a pretty little valet dish. As well, this would serve as a great option at your entry way for your keys and change.

Faux Fur Laptop Sleeve: No longer should you have to throw your laptop in your bag. For starters, it’s not good for the laptop, and secondly, why not use a fun faux fur case to store it throughout your day! Functional and fabulous.

Orange Lizard Glass Polished Nickel Desk Set: Fewer things get us more excited to jump back into the swing of things than pretty desk accessories such as this one.

1940s Royal WWII Canvas Artillery Trunk Found in France: Sometimes the clutter can just get too out of hand, and it’s nice to have furniture in your house that isn’t only incredibly wonderful due to it’s beauty and history, but also when it can hold some of that clutter. 

Set of Blue and White 1930s French Enamelware Canisters Found in France: Use these canisters either in your kitchen or your office or really anywhere else in your house. Store various items in each, and you’ll feel more organized in no time.

1930s French Metal Divided Boxes: We love these edgy boxes for storing books, notebooks, and other paper products. No need to leave these items out on your desk; simply put them away in this metal beauty!

Arley Rack: A bigger piece, indeed, but a very functional one, too. With both shelves and drawers, you can not only store items away, but also keep your prettiest pieces out for all to see. 

Acrylic Boxes with Agate Slices: These beautiful boxes can hold anything from jewelry to coins to keys to desk items and beyond. And because they are clear acrylic you can easily see what’s inside. 

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The Best Last Minute Gifts

We’re officially in the home stretch to Christmas! In less than a week you’ll be gathered around your tree opening presents and drinking eggnog. But have you finished your gift shopping? 

Many of us haven’t so you’re not alone if you’re still on the hunt for the perfect gifts for your loved ones! And today’s gift guide is full of great last minute gift ideas that are perfect for a variety of people in your life. And guess what? All are under $100! 

So, keep on scrolling and check out 12 of our favorite last minute gift ideas, all available at Laurier Blanc. If you have any questions on anything, be sure to let us know! 

Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas! Wishing you only the best in the new year.

1. Turkish Delights Earrings - Faceted Pom Drops 2. NEST Bamboo Diffuser 3. Glass and Nickel Veuve Clicquot Champagne Label Cocktail Napkin Tray 4. Tiger Valet Dish 5. Cast Iron Hands 6. Mini Ganesh Charm Tassel Necklaces 7. Hey Good Lookin’ Doormat 8. Vintage Round Hotel George Dish Found in Italy 9. Handmade Moroccan Ceramic Bowls in Zwak 10. Honey Bracelet Handmade in Egypt 11. Achille Mauzan’s “Victor Clicquot Champagne Glass Matchcover 12. Gold Foiled Boxes

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Gift Ideas He Will Love

Why are men so hard to shop for? Year after year, it’s a challenge shopping for the guys in our lives. Do they want another tie? Doubtful. Do they need another wallet? Nope. Do they want more cologne? Probably not. So what on earth do you get them?

Well, below we’ve rounded up 10 great gift ideas that are slightly different than the usual, and the men (fathers, brothers, grandfathers, boyfriends, husbands, and so on) will love. Take a look...

1. Oversized Champagne Bottle 2. Sailboat Spine Ivory Books (set of 7) 3. Barkeep Acrylic Tool Set 4. Pencil Magnifying Glass 5. Vintage 1894 Italian Scuba Diver Ice Bucket 6. Leather Bound Journals 7. Skull Spine Ivory Books (set of 3) 8. Vintage Leather Locking Suitcase with Straps 9. Goyard Inspired Glass Nickel Playing Card Box 10. 1930s Framed French Panair Print Ad

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Gift Ideas the Host/Hostess Will Love

Well, we’re into the first full week of December, which means Christmas and Hanukkah are just a couple weeks away. It’s hard to believe that the year is winding down!

How’s your holiday shopping going? We published a gift guide last week on what to get your BFF (which you can find here), and today it’s all about the host/hostess.

You’re bound to go to holiday parties this time of year or even just a small gathering at your friend’s or family’s house. It’s always nice to bring a little something to show your appreciation for them having you over during this joyous time of year. And it can be hard to figure out what exactly to get, we know! 

Well, we’re here to help! Keep on scrolling for 15 of the best host/hostess gift ideas, all available in the gallery or online.

1. Veuve Clicquot Champagne Label Cocktail Napkin Tray 2. Cristal Champagne Label Cocktail Napkin Tray 3. Tina Frey Large Ice Bucket - white 4. Tina Frey Large Ice Bucket - grey 5. Moet Chandon Rosé Champagne Label Glass Tray 6. Veuve Clicquot Champagne Glass Tray 7. Victor Clicquot Glass Tray 8. Glass Decanters 9. Olive Picks 10. Glass Nickel Penrose Bar Set 11. Handmade Moroccan Ceramic Tray in Stripe 12. Handmade Moroccan Ceramic Tray in White Gold Dot 13. Handmade Moroccan Marble Glazed Bowls 14. Gold Shell Demitasse Condiment Set 15. Quartz Wine Stopper in Brass

Feature image borrowed from Camille Styles

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Gift Ideas Your BFF Will Love

Now that Thanksgiving has come and gone, it’s time to get your holiday shopping done! Before we know it, the next set of holidays will be here, so we’re making our list and checking it twice sooner rather than later so we’re all organized come December 24th!

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be bringing you various gift guides for different people in your life, and today it’s all about your bestie! Whether you’ve known her forever or only a couple years, it’s fun to shop for your best gal pal.

Think about their style and what they love, and then proceed accordingly. Below you’ll find a variety of ideas, from jewelry to clutches to candles and more. So, keep on scrolling...

1. Turkish Delight Earrings - Filigree Lavender Stone Danglers 2. Turkish Delight Earrings - Filigree Pearl Danglers 3. Handmade Skull Coral Brass Cuff from Istanbul 4. Handmade Burnished Skull Stone Brass Cuff from Istanbul 5. Handmade Natural Stone Brass Cuff with Red Coral from Istanbul 6 & 7. Leather Serpentine Clutches by Clay Witt 8. Elephant Tassel Necklaces 9. Beaded Tassel Necklaces 10. Silver Crystal Lapis Tassel Necklaces 11. Mini Ganesh Charm Tassel Necklaces 12. Mayan Pyramid Beaded Pouches 13. Eric Raisina Silk Chiffon Wrap 14. NEST Candle 15. Luxe Fur Eye Mask

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Last Minute Thanksgiving Host/Hostess Gifts

Thanksgiving is just a couple days away, believe it or not! You probably have all your plans set and you know what you’ll be doing, but something that might be more of a last minute thought is what to get the host/hostess.

If you’re going to a friend’s or family member’s house, it’s always nice to bring something. It doesn’t have to be anything huge, but a little something to show your appreciation for being welcomed into their home for the holiday. 

Below we’ve pulled together 10 last minute gift ideas, all under $75, so keep on scrolling.

from left to right

Vintage blue and white hand painted signed ceramic dish: One can never own too many trinket dishes.

Olive picks: This way, no martini will ever look incomplete.

Vintage silver orange container with spoon: Just fill it with spices or sauces.

Gold shell condiment set: Next time they serve any sort of dip, they’ll have beautiful pieces to use with them.

Alabaster cheese board: It can be used for cheese or anything else.

Metal Perrier Jouet champagne bucket: So their champagne will chill in style.

Geurlain Cage Bottle: The perfect accompaniment to a bar cart. 

NEST candle: A go to gift because everyone loves a great smelling candle.

NEST diffuser: And if you think you’ve overdone the candle gift, opt for a diffuser instead. 

“I hope you brought wine” doormat: No better doormat out there.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving! 

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Trending: At Home Relaxation Retreats

A home trend we’re currently loving is none other than the relaxation retreat, which is, quite simply, a relaxation room in a house. It’s also referred to as a zen room, a meditation room, or a retreat. And that’s what it is. It’s a place you can go to escape from the day to day hustle, and just be. Whether you meditate in this room, nap, paint, think, journal, or anything else, it’s your room to make it what you wish. 

And when it comes to this type of room, you likely already have many of the components in your home. As well, if you don’t have a spare room, it can just be an area. Maybe a corner near a window or a special spot in your living room. It’s totally up to you!

Below we’ve pulled together some inspiration shots from various relaxation retreats / zen hideaways / meditation rooms, as well as a round up of items from Laurier Blanc that will help complete your own room. All items are available in the gallery or online.

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from left to right: Hide Sling Chair / Sheepskin Acrylic Stool / 1940s Royal WWII Canvas Artillery Trunk / Vintage Turkish Rug / Green Fluorite Rock Crystal Lamp / Mohair Turkish Pillow / Turkish Silk Cotton Lumbar Pillow / Mink Faux Fur Throw / Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree / Luxe Fur Eye Masks / Moroccan Metallic Leather Pouf / Belgian Geometric Lantern in Antiqued Glass / Vintage Watercolor Art / Faux Polar Bear Skin Rug

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The Holiday Shopping Card is Here!

It’s that time of year again! The Holiday Shopping Card is officially underway, and it’s time to shop. 

For those who aren’t familiar, the Holiday Shopping Card benefits the American Cancer Society. The card is $75, and you will receive 20% off merchandise at select retailers (including Laurier Blanc!). 100% of the contributions from purchasing the card benefits the American Cancer Society. We love that it’s for such a great cause, and it’s a way to get some great discounts on your favorite merchandise.

It may seem early, but the holidays are right around the corner, so why not get a head start on your holiday shopping? Or just shop for yourself!

You can purchase a Holiday Shopping Card at Laurier Blanc, and you can use it through October 29th. Come in and shop! We’d love to see you.

Below are some items you’ll want to add to your shopping list! Please note - sale items are not included on the shopping card. 

Which is your favorite pick from below? 

from left to right: Mid century orange resin diablo stool / 1940s royal WWII canvas artillery trunk / 1920s painted life buoys / Cast stone book / Bronze leather serpentine clutch / woven cotton metallic throws with tassels / Oversized Belgian blue white ceramic temple jar / Antique hotel silver champagne bucket / mini charm tassel necklaces / signed vintage watercolor

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How to Make Your Home Cozy for Fall and Winter

Well, fall is in full swing! While it certainly doesn’t feel like it here in Houston, we’re sure cooler days are ahead. And even if it’s not cold outside yet, you can still bring fall vibes into your home, just by changing up your accessories.

When it comes to making your home cozy, there are only a few simple touches to think about. While simple, they are still enough to change things up enough while still sticking to your interior design style.

Add large and chunky blankets all around your house. Make the couches a place your guests won’t want to get off of! (via Brit Morin)

If you have a working fireplace, start lighting it up, and move your pillows and blankets to the floor so you can read and relax right alongside it. (via Lindsay Marcella)

Add extra blankets to your bed! (via Gurl)

Go overboard with pillows! And the softer and furrier the better. You can never have enough pillows. (via Maison and Objet)

Seriously, fill up your entire couch with pillows (and candles!). Candles really help to set the cozy mood. (via Just Imagine)

Place candles all around your home. (via NiceSpace)

And if you don’t have a working fireplace, that’s ok! Place candles inside it, and you’ll achieve an incredible look and feel. (via Tidbits and Twine)

Add twinkle lights inside your living room and dim the lights. (via BuzzFeed)

Add accents to your fireplace! (via Country Living)

Change up your colors. Go darker for fall and winter. (via Inspiration Deco)

Below are some items available in the gallery and online that’ll help make your home extra cozy for the months ahead!

1. Tibetan Lamb Throw Pillow 2. Woven Cotton Metallic Throws with Tassels 3. Faux Polar Bear Skin Rugs 4. Belgian Geometric Lantern in Antiqued Glass 5. Antique French Leaf Sconces 6. Turkish Cotton Linen Lumbar Pillow 7. Vintage Turkish Overdyed Wool Rug 8. Rustic Wooden Lanterns with Glass Insert 9. Farrel Throw

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Artist Spotlight: Paul Tankersley

We’re lucky to carry so many incredible artists, designers, and makers here at Laurier Blanc. And one of our favorites is Texas-based artist, Paul Tankersley. 

Paul creates stunning ethereal and otherworldly patterns using various paints and seals them with a clear acrylic overlay, creating depth and giving each piece a high-gloss, water-like finish. His pieces are truly special and remarkable.

Keep on reading for how Paul got started, what inspires him, and more...

How long have you been painting and what made you want to start?

I began painting about 10 years ago. The art was a way for me to release creative energy and decompress from the day as a nurse. My role expanded over of the years from working on the transplant team to infectious disease. The variables found in these patient populations can be challenging if as a nurse, you don't find a way to decompress from the loss and stresses associated with your patients passing or bumps in the road. 

What inspires your art? Anything or anyone in particular?

My inspiration comes from the need to calm my spirit and allow my psyche to relax and lose myself in creativity. The ways a painting evolves from what your idea was when you began to the end product is always never the same. As it changes with mistakes and ideas, what it will become is a complete mystery. That process inspires me to continue to paint and create and see what comes about.

What’s your favorite piece you’ve ever painted and why?

My favorite painting is the next one, the anticipation and excitement of what it will be, how it will make me feel and most importantly how it will affect the person who chooses it to live with them in their private space. 

What advice do you have for someone wanting to become an artist?

Art is what you make it. No rules, no lines, no guidelines, no mistakes, no right or wrong. Art is one of the few pleasures on earth that requires absolutely nothing more than your imagination and use of your surrounding to express yourself. Just play, let yourself have fun, disconnect from judgement and self doubt - your art will find you.

Who is your favorite artist and why?

I don't have a favorite artist - each piece of art holds either the enjoyment or misunderstanding of its presentation. Each piece was born with the artists love, time, energy and intensions. 

Thanks, Paul! 

Shop the collection here

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More Art by Paul Tankersley...

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Trending for Fall : Velvet

Fall is upon us! And one of the biggest home trends for the season is none other than velvet. This luxe fabric will be covering couches, pillows, walls, and accessories. It adds a special and cozy warmth to a home.

You’ll be seeing it in every color under the sun, so don’t be afraid to throw that velvet hot pink pillow on your couch! In fact, that’s encouraged. 

So, if you’re looking for ways to spruce up your home as the months get chillier, turn to velvet. It’s stylish, it’s chic, and it’s timeless. 

Keep on scrolling for some beautiful velvet inspiration, along with a few of our favorite velvet pieces from the gallery.

Purple velvet couch / 100 Layer Cake

Rust velvet couch and ottoman / Amara

Dark teal velvet pillow and ottoman / Domino Magazine

Light green velvet couch / French by Design

Plum velvet bench and chairs / House Beautiful Magazine

Pink and plum velvet couch, pillows, and chair / My Scandinavian Home

Blue velvet couch / My Domaine

Teal velvet couch / Natural Mavens

Pink velvet chair / Peone.tumblr.com

Blush and rust couch and pillows / Simply Grove

1. Avalon Velvet Acrylic Stool 2. Silk and Velvet Stripe Ikat Pillow 3. Antique Velvet Sewing Box 4. Geometric Silk and Velvet Ikat Lumbar Pillow 5. Farrel Throw