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12 Things I Wish Realtors Would Start Doing At Open Houses

Alright, this is a PSA for all you real estate agents out there.  As a prospective home buyer, I have some things I’ve observed that I love, and well, some that I think you could improve on.  And for what it’s worth, I think you should take some notes.

1. Online pictures

Ok seriously?  Put some effort in these.  I don’t need to see zoomed in pictures of furniture, I just care about the house.  And come on, stop taking pictures of homes at night.  I mean, WHY?  Open the blinds/curtains, wait for the sun, and show me the house when it’s at it’s best:  natural sunlight is your friend!

2.  Take a video of the home

This is pretty rare, and I never understood it.  I LOVE when you guys post videos of the home.  You don’t need a fancy production company to produce one of these, you know that right?  You can even do a simple social media post (see #12).

3. Brochure

I may be alone on this, but I just want you to know, I throw that brochure away as soon as I get back to my car.  Don’t get me wrong, it’s nice,  but unless it has something that isn’t already on my app (zillow, realtor), I’m tossing that right away.  And if you are going to have it available, just leave it on the table.  Don’t give it to folks that don’t want it, save yourself some money.

4.  Printed Floor plan

For those of you that have floor plans available, I LOVE YOU.  I don’t need that fancy brochure with pictures I already see online, I need a floor plan with measurements.  Can my couch fit in that living room?  Will my bed fit in there?  I need measurements!

5.  Measuring tape

Look, I keep this in my purse, but I know many shoppers don’t.  And if you’re not going to have a floor plan available, I’m sure serious prospects would appreciate some measuring tape available.

6.  Put the lights on

I can’t tell you how many open houses I’ve been to with no lights on.  Yes, the sunlight is shining through, but for some homes that lack sunlight, those lights would make a world of a difference.

7.  Home’s story

I could be alone on this, but I LOVE when the real estate agent shares the story of the home, the age, the previous occupants…etc.  With that said, don’t talk my ear off while I’m there.  Let me walk around in peace.

8.  Stuff for kids

I went to an open house once, and the real estate agent had a “treasure hunt.”  I thought it was GENIUS.  They had a “map” for my kids (of the house) and it had something my kids needed to find.  In that case, it was a parrot.  It kept them busy, and at the end, he had a little box of stickers and candy that he gave for finding the “treasure.”  I thought this was SUCH A GOOD IDEA!

9.  Clean up

I kid you not, I’ve seen open houses with trash on the lawn or on the sidewalk.  I’ve also seen cups and all kinds of things scattered around the house.  Seriously, declutter as much as you can.  Please.  Put some effort into it.

10.  Ask for feedback

I don’t get this often, but appreciate it when I do.  And, I can only imagine it would help you as a real estate agent as well.  So ask folks what they think, and ask for any feedback on the house, the neighborhood–what they liked, what they didn’t..etc.  Some may not want to say anything, but you’d be surprised what helpful information you may get.

11.  Music

Very few of the open houses I’ve gone to have played music.  However, the ones that did, made a HUGE difference for me.  It really sets the mood, and in my opinion, changes the ‘feel’ of the home and the experience.  It’s such an easy thing to do, and honestly makes such a difference.

12. Utilize Social Media

I’m surprised at how underutilized social media is.   Do a “live,” post some pictures, do a story, and create a buzz!  I had one agent ask me to post the video I took (I always videotape my viewings) and tag him.  I thought that was super smart on his end.

Anyway, I hope you find this helpful, and I hope you forward this to any realtors you may know too.  And happy house hunting if you’re not a realtor!

Love,

Deema

Photo Credit: The Fox Group

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6 Runner Rugs Under $100

So I’ve been admiring kitchen runner rugs on Instagram for months now.  And I’m just like, damnit I want one.  I have a long kitchen, and a runner rug would be perfect.  My house is mostly neutral colors, but I have to say I’ve been loving the bold colored rugs I’ve seen and kinda want that pop of color.  I’ve been on the search for one, and well, that means I’ve created a short list.   Below are 6 of my top picks under $100.

Also, I don’t know about you, but I base most of my purchases off of reviews.  Especially when it’s a TON of reviews that are good.  As opposed to like 3 people that may have given it a glowing review.  Therefore, I’ve included that info below too.

1. Darchelle Beige/Pink Rug

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You can find this on Joss & Main here.  Out of 1249 reviews, this got 4.8 out of 5 stars.

2. Cearbhall Beige Rug

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You can find this on Joss & Main here.  Out of 68 reviews, it got 4.8 out of 5 stars.

3.  Wilcox Orange Rug

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You can find this on Joss & Main here.  Out of 146 reviews it got 4.7 out of 5 stars.

4. Hillsby Orange/Saffron rug

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You can get this on Joss & Main here.  Out of 999 reviews, this got 4.8 out of 5 stars.

5.  Abbeville Power Loom Dark Blue Rug

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You can get this on Joss & Main here.  Out of 1,227 reviews, this got 4.7 out of 5 stars.

6.  Annabel Light Blue?Fuchsia Area Rug

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You can get this on Wayfair here.  Out of 1023 reviews, this got 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Alrighty, if you’re in the market for a rug, I hope that was helpful.  And if you just like looking at rugs in your free time, that’s cool too, I’m not judging you.

Love,

Deema

P.S.  Be sure to follow me on Instagram, on Facebook, and don’t forget to sign up for email alerts.  All the cool kids are doing it.  Scroll. All. The. Way. Down

 

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10 Reasons To Read Reese Witherspoon’s New Book: Whiskey in a Teacup.

If you follow me on Instagram, you likely didn’t miss my not so subtle excitement over Reese Witherspoon’s new book, Whiskey in a Teacup.  And it’s not because I’m obsessed with Reese Witherspoon, or the fact that I love Whiskey, or that I have an obsession with books in general.   Because all those things are true, but this book was really special.  I couldn’t put it down.  And by the time I was finished, I had texted all my girlfriends to go out and buy it.  Here’s why you should:

1.  You can totally judge this book by it’s cover.

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We all know I’m obsessed with coffee table books.  And if you’re a Reese Witherspoon fan (I mean, who isn’t?), the cover of this book is super cute and has her right on the cover.  It really is a beautiful book (and the pictures inside are beautiful too!).

2.  Totally a ‘feel good’ book

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You know how when you watch a movie and it makes you feel all good inside?  That’s exactly how I felt about this book.  I felt like I was sitting at the kitchen table having coffee with Reese as she shared all her stories, traditions, and tips.  She really reminds us what’s important about life–family, friends, home, and traditions.

3.  Recipes

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OMG the recipes.  And not just the food, but the recipes for drinks!  There is some serious good stuff in there.

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She even has full menu recommendations for different occasions.

4.  Stories + Memories

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Hands down my favorite part.  Reese shares a TON of memories and stories throughout the book.  She shares stories about important life lessons, shopping with her grandma, gardening with her grandpa, catching frogs, and how doing her own lemonade stand taught her a lot about running a business.

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And damnit she made me want a dog again!  She had me reminiscing about my own grandma and traditions, some of which were so relatable.

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And I loved learning about her mom, her incredible laugh, and her love for life and dancing.  Her grandma was a beacon of solid wisdom from beauty tips to her wisdom growing up in the civil rights movement, and the importance of love and inclusiveness.

5.  Parties and Traditions

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I LOVED learning about the dinner parties and different traditions she has and cherishes.  From the keepsake books for her kids, to the road trips (I already tried one of the games with my son during our morning car ride!), to the family dinners at the table, to the music, I loved them all.

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And look, now I’m convinced I need to host a Kentucky Derby Party of my own.  I’m already looking for some super cute hats.

6.  Tips, more tips, and then more tips!

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I don’t even know where to begin here!  She shares full menu ideas, table setting ideas, road trip games, hostess tips, flea market strategies, gift ideas, houseguest  etiquette, and even playlists for different occasions.

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I mean the list goes on and on.  And look, if you want to master the hot hair roller technique, or learn how to make the perfect sweet tea, this book is for you.

7.  The South

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As an extremely proud Lebanese woman, I LOVE how proud she is of where she came from, and loved learning so much about the South.   It was super cute, she even “translated” some of the Southern “language.”

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I loved learning about wicker and wallpaper, it totally gave me some ideas for my own home.  Reese talks about the music there, the traditions, the love for Monograms, and look, by the time I finished reading the book, I felt like I was about to let a few “y’alls” slip off my tongue.  Oh, and now I love Dolly Parton even more.

8.  Life Lessons

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Reese really hones in on what’s really important in life, from family and friends, to home and traditions.  She highlights how important dogs and animals are, and that it’s so important to make an effort in this busy world, to really sit down at the dinner table with your family and have good food and conversation.

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She talks about the importance of female friendships, and the importance of community and giving back.  I especially loved what she said about having a pretty home, but a welcoming and practical home for your family and your kids.  As she said it, “your home is not a museum.”  I think I need to remind myself of that sometimes.

9.  Book Club

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Umm, did you know Reese has a book club?  Not only does she share her favorites, but she shares ideas for a Book Club party menu, how she organizes her books, and all kinds of other good stuff…etc.  I cannot wait to start on some of her recommendations.

10.  Music, dancing, and playlists

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One thing I really loved was the theme of how important music was to her.  She shares many playlists throughout the book, and I thought that was such a nice touch!  She shares a little something about her early aspirations in life, but I’ll let you wait and find out when you read the book.

So go buy it!  Whether you need a cute coffee table book, a good read, or looking for a good gift, I promise you will not be disappointed.  I know this is definitely going to be my ‘go to’ for gifts for awhile now.  And Reese, in the off chance you ever read this, I totally get the sweatpants thing.  And thank you for reminding us that you can care about “silly” things like hair, makeup, or fashion, and still be educated, thoughtful, and care about other things like politics, and civic engagement.  And, please, write another book.

Love,

Deema

P.S.  Be sure to follow me on Instagram, on Facebook, and don’t forget to sign up for email alerts.  All the cool kids are doing it.  Scroll. All. The. Way. Down.

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7 Reasons To Check Out Buffalovely For Some Hilarious Home Goods.

If you’ve read any of my other posts on cheeky home accents (Part I and Part II), you know that sarcasm fuels my soul.  And when I find a new place that feeds my addiction, I get super excited.  You love gifting snarky stuff?  Or filling your home with cheeky statements?  You HAVE to check out Buffalovely.  I found them on Instagram, and it was love at first sight.  Let me break down some of my favorites.

1. Mugs

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You can find it here.

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If you’re a mom, or know a mom, you can find this here.  But seriously, they have a TON of mugs.  I had a really hard time picking a few to highlight.

2. Get your drank on..

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Technically I would never need one of these, because I’m no quitter.  But this would make an awesome gift.  Check it out here.

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I mean, probably.  Check it out here.

3. Kitchen Accessories

This is where I got really excited.  These. Were. All. Made. For. Me.

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Link here.

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Link here.

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Link here.

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Link here.

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Link here.

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Link here.

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Link here.

They have WAY more cute stuff, it was impossible to pick just a few.  Be sure to check out their website for more under this category.

4. Plants

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I don’t have plants, but if I did, I would need this asap.  Link here.

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Link here.

5.  Frames

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Tell me you don’t need this, or don’t know someone that does.  Link here.

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I mean ya, if we’re being honest.  Link here.

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Again, more honesty.  Link here.

7. Bathroom Accessories

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Seriously, wash your damn hands.  Link here.

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Link here.

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We all have that one friend….Link here.

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Because it’s always important to set realistic expectations.  Link here.

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Annnnd goodnight.  Link here.

Alright guys, hope you love this shop as much as I do.  For more products, check out their website here.

Love,

Deema

P.S.  Be sure to follow me on Instagram, on Facebook, and don’t forget to sign up for email alerts.  All the cool kids are doing it.  Scroll. All. The. Way. Down.

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5 Reasons To Shop At HomeGoods For Fall Decor

Listen I don’t care if it’s 90 degrees outside, if someone tells you it’s too early to decorate for Fall, you don’t need that kind of negativity in your life.  I’m ready to wear my flannel shirt and start drinking my Pumpkin Spice Latte like the walking cliche that I’ve lived up to be.

There are plenty of places to shop for Fall Decor.  However, one of my favorite places to go is HomeGoods.  Why?

1.  Signs

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Because without them you may forget what holiday season we’re in.  Especially when it’s hot AF outside.  HomeGoods has a TON of signs for the fall right now.  They have Halloween themed signs, Fall themed, Thanksgiving themed…etc

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2.  Money, Money, Moneyyyyy

You get A TON of bang for your buck.  The prices are budget friendly, and the quality is just as good.  And listen, you never walk out of HomeGoods empty handed.  Like, ever.  Unless you walk in there on a Tuesday and see Patty from the PTA and you’re super embarrassed for not returning her calls, so you quickly run out of the store and go mourn the loss of all the items left in your cart as you cry in your car.  Hypothetically speaking, that is.

3.  Pillows & Throws

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Look, pillows get boring.  It’s fun to switch them up a bit, especially for a holiday.  They have all kinds of pillows and throws right now with all the fun fall themes and colors.

4.  Pumpkins

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There is nothing like going to a pumpkin patch, picking out pumpkins, and then taking them home to carve and decorate.  And, we totally do that with the kiddos every year.  With that said, I LOVE the variety of decorative pumpkins they have at the store.  And for me, I love my neutrals.  But don’t worry, they have other pumpkins for all you normal human beings that like color.

5.  Stuff for the kids

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Ok, my kids were super excited.  They have a TON of Halloween and Thanksgiving decor, snow globes, garlands,….etc.

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The point is, it’s a great place to go and get the kids excited about the Fall too.

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Lastly, I’ll just add that there is a ton of other stuff that I didn’t get.  They have plates, cups, mugs, baskets, gifts, candles, Fall food and drinks, and so much more Fall Decor.  And no, I didn’t get paid to write about this, I’m just obsessed.  So seriously, go to HomeGoods.  Just don’t go on Tuesday, Patty might be there.

Love,

Deema

P.S.  Be sure to follow me on Instagram, on Facebook, and don’t forget to sign up for email alerts.  All the cool kids are doing it.  Scroll. All. The. Way. Down.

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6 Reasons To Buy Faux Flowers

I love having flowers in my home, but I don’t exactly have an endless cash flow to replace those suckers every week.  Look, I know there is nothing like fresh flowers.  And I think it’s great that your friend Casey has fresh Peonies delivered to her home every Wednesday.  But I’m on a budget, and I like to spend my extra money on trips to HomeGoods, or something that lasts longer than 3 days. Continue reading “6 Reasons To Buy Faux Flowers” →

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How You Can Redecorate For Little To No Cost.

Do you ever watch an entire episode of Fixer Upper and then dream for hours about how you could redecorate your home?  And then cry all night over a pint of Ben and Jerry’s trying to figure out how you can wake up with a million dollars? Unfortunately stuff costs money, and redecorating can really break the bank.  You want my secret?  Sell your stuff.

So I bought these lamps a few months ago because I was rushing to get some lamps when we first moved in.   I have the patience of a toddler, and rushed to fill the apartment before really taking the time and picking something I wanted.

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Don’t get me wrong, they’re cute, but they’re kinda traditional.  I wanted something a little more industrial, and so I decided if I wanted new lamps, I had to sell these first. You know, so my husband wouldn’t kill me, because I do this A LOT.

And so I did, for the EXACT same price as I bought them.  I also ended up selling some frames that were in the picture and so I ended up with some extra change at the end of the day.  (Oh, Snap!) I went online, purchased my new lamps, and the package came and I opened it before I had my morning coffee like it was the first day of christmas.

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I started assembling those suckers, I couldn’t wait!

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And TA DA!  My new lamps from Ikea baby!  You can get these here, but sorry guys looks like the price went up $7 since I purchased them last.

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Ok so how did I sell these?  Like Magic!  JK.

There was a time when I put everything on craigslist.  However, a few years ago, I found an App called Offerup, and it has literally changed my life.  My first sale was for $600, and ever since then I have been hooked.  Here’s how it works:

1.  Download the App.

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It’s called OfferUp.  What I love about this app, is you don’t have to share personal information, and you communicate solely through the app.  What’s even cooler, is you can see how people are rated (it’s a star system), how many purchases and sales they’ve done, and what they’re selling (if they have anything posted).

2. Upload your pictures.

Because it’s an app on your phone, it’s SO EASY to upload the pictures.  Be sure not to take crappy photos though. You need to take a few with good lighting like below.

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Then take a few of what they would look like in a home..

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Be sure to zoom in on certain parts of whatever you’re selling.  For example, this is a zoomed in picture of the shade.

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And then one of the base, so they can really see the lamp.

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3. Type up a description.

I put as much info on there as possible.  I ALWAYS provide dimensions, the current condition, and how long I’ve had it.  I also like to add if whatever I’m posting has multiple uses too.

4. Price

For this app, picture yourself at a flea market.  No one is ever going to pay full price.  Therefore, yes, always post it for more than you want to sell it for.  ALWAYS.

5.  Click finish and it’s posted within minutes!

What’s also cool about this app, is you can see how many views your post is getting.  You get notifications when you have an offer, and you communicate directly through the app.  It’s also cool because you can see if the message has been read or not, it looks just like a text message.

Lastly, I did not get paid to talk about OfferUp, and if you know of any better Apps for selling stuff, let me know!  However, I really do love this app.  I hope you check it out, and end up buying something new and thinking of me.

Love,

Deema

P.S.  Be sure to follow me on Instagram, on Facebook, and don’t forget to sign up for email alerts.  All the cool kids are doing it.  Scroll. All. The. Way. Down.

 

 

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The Stuff Inside Your Cabinet Should Be Pretty Too.

I don’t know about you, but there was a time in my life when my mug selection consisted of a bunch of random mugs that I had collected over the years.  My cabinet literally looked like a cluttered garage sale table packed up on my shelves.  Well, at some point I decided I wanted to be an adult, and I wanted all my mugs to match.  And just like my post about Reusable Grocery Bags, I said bye-bye to all those random mugs, and hello to a nice set of matching mugs.  Besides, do you really want your guests drinking from a bunch of different mugs with random logos and markers on them?  I know I don’t.  And if you’re in the market for new mugs, below are some of my favorites currently on the market.

1. Alphabet Mugs From Pottery Barn

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Pottery Barn was my first love when it came to home stuff, and they are never short of quality, super cute pieces.  These are $7 a piece, and you can get them here.

2. Monogram Mug From Anthropologie

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Love Anthropologie?  Didn’t know they have home stuff?  Well they do, and these are super cute.  These are $8 a piece, and you can get them here.

3. Teverson Mugs from Wayfair

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I’ve always loved clear mugs.  I think they’re the coolest thing ever, and I don’t see them enough.  I also love the shape of these.  You can get a set of 4 for $27.99 at Wayfair here.  These may be my favorite on this list.

4.  All In Good Taste Deco Dot Mug from Kate Spade

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I LOVE Kate Spade.  Always have, and always will.  These are simple, chic, and I bet you would feel fancy drinking from them.  You can get these for $7 each on Wayfair here.

5. Rae Dunn Mugs

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I’m sure you’ve seen these all over the place.  You can find them on some random sites, but I intentionally didn’t list one here because Marshalls, TJMaxx, AND HomeGoods all have them for much cheaper.

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I see them all the time, and they’re typically $3 to $5 a piece.  I love the font, love the size, and of course the neutral colors.  They come in so many different words.

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6.  Speckled Monogram Mug from World Market

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Last, but not least, you can get these for $3.98 at World Market here.  The current mugs I own are actually from World Market too, but unfortunately a few years old and not sold in stores anymore.  They have lasted me a really long time, and are great quality.

Alright guys, I hope I’ve inspired you to go home and match up those mugs.  I promise you, it’s the adult thing to do.

Love,

Deema

P.S.  Be sure to follow me on Instagram, on Facebook, and don’t forget to sign up for email alerts.  All the cool kids are doing it.  Scroll. All. The. Way. Down.