Good morning friends! I’m so excited to get back into my “guess who’s dropping in for coffee” series. Today I have a very talented guest who is a great decorator, stylish fashion blogger and who can put together one heck of a party. It is the sweet and darling Courtney from A Thoughtful Place. Come grab your morning beverage of choice and join me for a fun read!

1. What did you do prior to creating A Thoughtful Place?

I taught fifth grade for almost ten years. I adored teaching and lived at the school. However, after I had my first baby, I shared a contract and taught two days a week. Once my son came along, I made the decision to stay home with our little ones. When our youngest was two, I really need an outlet and A Thoughtful Place was born.

2. What inspired the blog?

My dear friend and neighbor, Meghan, showed me a project she wanted us to make from a blog. A blog? What’s a blog? I seriously had no idea they existed. She showed me this adorable project and soon after I discovered Just A Girl and was sucked in! I couldn’t believe how much I related to all of these women who were creative and found a way to share that. I told my husband I would wait one year, make a detailed plan, and launch a blog. To which he enthusiastically said, “Great!” having no clue what a blog was. Well, I couldn’t wait a year. The very next day I contacted Jenna {now of Small Fry} to help design my site. It was the best decision I ever made. The blog gives me such a fantastic outlet and allows me to be my crazy, creative self while still being home with my family. It’s a win win in my book. Not to mention the amazing relationships and friendships that have all developed from opportunities stemming from the blog. Sometimes I have to pinch myself.

3. In your blog you talk about interiors, fashion, entertaining and so much more. What would you say is your favorite topic of the three?

I wish I could name a favorite. I think that is probably why I cover so many topics. I can’t choose just one. I think it’s natural for our interests to not only vary over time, but to be expand and change as we grow. I grew up in a loving household with a mom who loved to entertain. I think it’s just a part of who I am. I love nothing more than to set a pretty table and just enjoy a long evening of conversation and cocktails with friends. The fashion side of my blog is truly a joy. My husband takes all of my fashion photos so it’s a great way for us to spend time together. He makes me laugh and is my biggest supporter so it never feels like a chore or something I have to do. I flirted with designing clothes back in the day. And by flirted, I mean I don’t think I would have had a strong career! But I loved designing and making my own looks. I started doing that in 6th grade and continued to make my own designs into college. And then there are interiors. I am obsessed! To the point where I sit and stare at corners of rooms just to appreciate the textiles or lines of the moldings. That too runs in my family and is something that will always be a part of my life. See, I really am a bit ADD when it comes to my interests!

4. Talking about interiors, how would you describe your style?

Hmmm. Gosh. Well, I think I would say it’s traditional with a touch of glam and edginess. I like to toss things into my spaces that are unexpected like a bold rug or a patterned wallpaper. I don’t shy away from color, but I do love my larger pieces to remain traditional and timeless. I think my fashion sense is very much the same. Traditional and feminine with a bit of edge.

5. What so far has been your favorite project in your home?

That would either by my daughter’s room or our bedroom. My daughter and I had so much fun working on her space together. The bold color on the ceiling paired with the white walls created such a happy space. I honestly love spending time with her in her bedroom. Our room was a process over time and I love it because it is the most neutral space in the home. While the rest of our home has bold color, this room is a calm retreat and I love waking up in there with the natural light that comes pouring in.

6. What is one tip you can share that you’ve learned about decorating?

As far a practical, real sink your teeth into tips, I would say to try and mix prints. Make sure they are small, medium and large in scale with complimentary colors and you can’t go wrong. I also have learned the importance of staying away from trends and doing what you truly love. This is your home. It’s where you will spend the majority of your time. Don’t do something just because it’s hot right now or others might go nuts over it on Pinterest. Do what you really love. That is the only way to get a look that you will truly love and enjoy for a very long period of time.

7. Your most favorite DIY?

Most likely my striped drapes. While they can be found anywhere now, at the time that I made them they were still novel and such a labor of love.

8. For fashion, what’s your go to item? i.e shirt? necklace, shoes, jeans?

That’s a loaded question. I think it’s a collection of accessories. A grouping of pearl and gold bracelets, my watch and a fun scarf. I think when I toss those on with jeans or with a cute dress, I always feel pulled together.

9. Perfect date night?

Now you’re speaking my language! We do date night every week and think it’s a huge contributor to a happy marriage. I love getting dressed up a bit. Not fancy, but a sexy pair of heels and a sundress. I am probably most enamored with heading down to the ocean for drinks and dinner. Followed up by a glass of wine and conversation on our front porch. Honestly, I just love hanging out with my best friend. I would be happy doing anything with him.

10. If you didn’t live in California where would you live?

My heart is in California, but I would love to spread out somewhere. A farmhouse in the middle of five acres sounds dreamy! And only if Chip and Joanna Gaines come and do my house!

I loved getting to know Courtney more and I hope you did as well! Thank you friends for coming by and I hope y’all have an amazing weekend!