Author: Jillian

The classic pineapple upside-down cake became America’s favorite dessert during the 1920s as canned pineapples found their way into home kitchens. Modern bakers have transformed this beloved dessert into a spectacular two-layer creation. The original square single-layer cake has evolved into an impressive double-layer masterpiece that serves 10 people. Bakers love to serve this cake warm from the oven because it creates what they call “tons of TA-DA!” This two-layer pineapple upside-down cake will become the centerpiece of your special celebration or dinner party. Let us help you create this stunning dessert with detailed steps to perfect your fruit design…

Gift-giving doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, office exchange, or just a little something to brighten someone’s day, there are plenty of amazing gift ideas in the budget that show you care—without breaking the bank. After all, the best gifts aren’t about price; they’re about thoughtfulness. Some people assume budget-friendly gifts lack quality or creativity, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. With a little effort, you can find gifts under $10 that are fun, useful, and totally unique. Whether you’re looking for a practical gadget, a quirky surprise, or a thoughtful gift for…

Creating a DIY tool holder is a game-changing solution for anyone looking to transform their cluttered workspace into an organized haven. Whether you’re a weekend warrior tackling home projects or a seasoned craftsperson, having your tools readily accessible can make all the difference in your workflow.  From simple wall-mounted designs using reclaimed wood to sophisticated free-standing units with custom compartments, DIY tool holders offer endless possibilities to match your specific needs. Not only do they help maximize valuable workspace, but they also protect your investment in quality tools by keeping them properly stored and preventing damage.  With pegboards providing versatile…

This shouldn’t come as a surprise, but I’m no Martha Stewart. I leave the burner on, live on microwaveable food and have started one (or two) fires in my lifetime. When it comes to following recipes, I’m kind of a fly by the seat of your pants and throw seasoning on everything kind of girl. My boyfriend can completely attest to the amount of pans I’ve burnt in the short seven months we’ve lived together. Drinks are perhaps to one area where I’m at some slight advantage. Take it as a gift or a curse, but I know how to make…

There’s nothing like a bit of motivation to get you through the day! I live by inspiring quotes and use them as mantras to get through the week. I’ve rounded up my favorite thirty quotes to inspire your week. Have a favorite? Save the ones you love so you can look back on them later! Surrounding yourself with positive thoughts can uplift your mindset and energize your spirit. Let these quotes remind you of the power of optimism and the joy it can bring to daily life. Here’s the list of 30 Inspiring Quotes To Live By 1. “Stop chasing…

Discovering that perfect vintage dresser or mid-century modern coffee table at a thrift store can feel like striking gold, especially when you consider the environmental and financial benefits of buying secondhand. But beneath that beautiful patina and bargain price tag, many thrifted pieces harbor years of dust, debris, and sometimes unwanted surprises. Don’t let these concerns stop you from transforming someone else’s castoffs into your home’s newest treasures. Learning how to clean thrifted furniture is a valuable skill that can help you confidently build an eco-friendly, budget-conscious home filled with unique character. Whether you’re eyeing a weathered wooden bookshelf or…

Are you tired of looking at old, uninspiring kitchen cabinets but not quite ready to commit to a full renovation? You’re definitely not alone. A simple coat of paint can revitalize your kitchen, infusing it with new energy without costing a fortune.  Learning how to paint kitchen cabinets might seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, it’s a rewarding DIY project that can dramatically change your space for a fraction of the cost of replacement. Whether your cabinets are dark and dreary or simply showing their age, a well-executed paint job can give them a modern, professional-looking finish…

Growing up, I’ve always been a lover of all things vintage. When living in Miami, my favorite hobby was to visit thrift stores on the weekend and do my best to sort through relics for gold. I pore over clothing patterns at JoAnn fabrics, marvel at the fashions in shows like Mad Men and the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and find myself constantly diving into the past for inspiration. You could say my taste in furniture is in the same vein. There is nothing I love more than a mid-century modern couch. My current living situation has posed a bit of a challenge with my personal…

Hi friends! If you’re wondering why you don’t see much of my home in my Instagram stories, it’s because I have a small setback. Here’s the thing: I’ve inherited most of my partner’s furniture. Relationships are beautiful things, but sometimes the furniture we get isn’t. While I’ve had the chance to update a few things, we’re waiting on our future home to fully furnish our apartment with pieces we adore. In the meantime, I’ve become a master making budget-friendly decisions to style a small apartment. Decor, statement pieces, and subtle styling choices can make a HUGE different in space. In…

Planning a trip to Los Angeles? Whether you’re an Instagrammer, professional photographer or just a curious traveler, the opportunities are endless. From Beverly Hills to Venice, I’m sharing the best photography locations in Los Angeles. Tips for Scouting the Best Photography Locations in Los Angeles When planning a trip, bloggers tend to put in research on the best areas to take great photos. I recently traveled to Los Angeles and Palm Springs for a blogger conference and was inspired by every corner of the cities. Below are a few must-have photography locations. The only thing my friend Dawn and I…