How I Make Our Home Cozy

Published on by blonde rosieLeave a comment

It’s been a busy few weeks with summer ending and jumping back into fall routines. This year I was intentional about planning ahead and finding time to swap in my fall decor early this year. Most years, I keep saying I’m going to get around to it. Then it’s November and I’m confused what season I should be enjoying – fall or pre-Christmas! This September, I scheduled time to deep clean the house on a Saturday and took down the summer decor. The next weekend, I brought the fall stuff out and just did the seasonal swap out. New pillows on the couch, pumpkins on the bookshelf, a new fall-scented candle!

Summer is when I want to spend every single minute outside, and fall is when I’m content to stay indoors and recharge my social battery. It’s so nice to come home from work and put on comfy sweatpants and sit on the couch with a throw blanket and comfy pillows.

I wanted to share a few of my favorite ways I turn our space into a cozy little sanctuary — because I think making home feel comforting isn’t about spending tons of money — it’s about the little details that make you sigh when you walk in the door.

1. Soft lighting + “pause” moments

One of the first things I did (and still love) was change out the overhead harsh lights. I added a small table lamp in our kitchen, near the coffee station — low bulb, warm glow. It instantly changed how I feel when I come downstairs in the morning, or when we’re winding down after dinner. I have a rule about no overhead lighting!

In our living room, we keep a soft lamp on and always have a few candles burning while we are in the room for extra lighting. read or chat.

2. Texture, layers & comfort

I’m absolutely a believer that texture + neutral tones = comfort. We’ve got a neutral foundation — soft white or light grey walls, simple furniture — and then layer in:

  • A chunky knit throw draped over the couch.
  • A few throw pillows in varying textures
  • Rugs throughout the house

Having my comfy blankets at the ready in a basket by the couch means I’m always just one movement away from settling in.

3. Decluttered base + intentional accents

Here’s the thing I learned: having a calm space often means eliminating the clutter that distracts. We did a big sweep of our house (yes, it took time) and removed items that didn’t bring joy or serve a function. Once the base is clean and simple, any little accent becomes that much more purposeful. I went to every room in the house with a bag and was ruthless when I decluttered. Even when I brought the fall stuff out of storage, I ended up donating more than I used this year because it just felt like clutter at this point.

For example: a wooden tray on the coffee table that holds our remotes + a candle + a tiny vase. Or a wicker basket next to the sofa for throws and extra pillows. Because they have a place, they don’t feel like extra stuff. They feel like part of the why of the living room: comfort.

4. Seasonal shifts (without losing the core)

I love changing up small details with the seasons — but I don’t overhaul the whole house every time. The core stays the same (neutral + texture + comfort) and then I’ll add:

  • In fall: maybe a plaid throw, a little more amber lighting, a pumpkin‑scented candle.
  • In winter: more blankets, maybe faux fur pillow covers, twinkle lights.
  • In spring: swap out heavier throws for lighter linens, replace one candle with a fresh floral one.

This keeps things feeling fresh, but also cozy and familiar. And it means I don’t spend tons or chase trends — I stick with what works and just layer in small updates. I use the same seasonal pillows and small decor that add that small something special each season. Really the only thing I spend money on right now are candles that help fill up the whole house with a seasonsal sent.

5. Cozy routines make the space matter

Your space only matters if you use it. So I’ve built routines around making home feel cozy:

  • A Saturday morning that always starts with coffee on the couch and I write my to-do list for the day while watching a cooking show
  • One thing I do each evening: tuck away the day’s items, fluff pillows, turn on the lamp, light the candle — that act signals to my brain: “we’re done for today.”
  • Before bed I pick one little corner of the house and refresh it. Maybe fold the throw on the couch, maybe put away the dishes, maybe just dim the lights. It’s a small gesture, but it seals in the feeling of home.

Because no matter how beautiful the décor is, if the house doesn’t feel like a safe, rest‑place, you’ll still feel unsettled.

6. Meaningful personal touches

Finally, I fill our home with things that mean something. A framed photo of a trip we loved, a thrift find that has character, a handwritten card tucked into the storage basket. These are the details you don’t notice until they’re gone — but you feel when they’re there.

We have a shelf of our favorite books, a small tray of sentimental items on the dresser, and souvenirs from our trips on our bookshelf. These are things that you can’t buy at a store and have very little value, but bring us joy when we have them out on display.

So that’s how I make our home cozy. It’s not perfect, it’s never finished. Some days the couch is messy with blankets, some days the laundry is visible, but the mood stays the same: restful, welcoming, ours. I love our house, and lately I love spending time at home.

If you’re thinking of making your home cozier, I’d suggest you start small: pick one aspect (lighting, texture, a little purge) and do it this week. Then sit back and enjoy that first sip of coffee or that first evening unwind — and enjoy your space!

Elevate Your Snack Game with Homemade Chips

Published on by blonde rosieLeave a comment

I’m that weird person who loves to spend time in the kitchen making food and trying new recipes. Life has been so busy the last few weeks that cooking dinner has turned into whatever I can cook quickly and get ready the fastest, instead of my usual hour-long recipes. Cooking dinner at night has turned into my quiet time, and it’s usually my favorite part of the day.

Over the weekend, I wanted to find time to cook something and have a little “me time”. I stumbled upon the episode of Meghan Markle’s show on Netflix which she makes potato chips from scratch. It’s been years since I made them myself, and I forgot how easy they are to make. Before I knew it, I was in my kitchen going through the cabinets, and I had everything I needed to make some. Making chips at home might feel over‑the‑top but it’s exactly the kind of thing that takes a regular evening and turns it into something just a little bit special. And if you’re anything like me? You want that snack moment to feel elevated, but still totally doable. After I made a batch for us to enjoy, I made some more to give away to some friends as a special little treat. This is a great idea for get-togethers when you aren’t the best cook but don’t want to show up empty handed.

Here is the recipe I used

  • russet potatoes (skin‑on)
  • salt
  • vinegar powder (I didn’t have any and went without)
  • oil
  • pot
  • Slice the potatoes thin (You can use a fancy gadget but I just used a knife)
  • Soak the slices in cold/ice water for ~30 minutes
  • Rinse, pat dry, allow a bit of air‑drying on paper towels for ~5 minutes
  • Heat oil in a heavy‑bottomed pot (Dutch oven works well) to ~325 °F. Fry the potato slices in a single layer (about 12‑16 slices at a time) for ~2‑3 minutes per batch until golden and crisp. Don’t overcrowd.
  • Use a spider or slotted spoon to remove the chips, drain on paper towels.
  • While still warm, toss quickly in a large bowl with the salt + vinegar powder + herbs (if using) so the seasoning clings.
  • Enjoy!

🎀 preppy and plaid

Published on by blonde rosieLeave a comment

plaid skirt // perfume // tennis bracelet // sneakers // purse

There’s something magical about the crispness of October mornings — the kind where your breath fogs up the air just a little, and the leaves crunch ever so perfectly beneath your feet. Fall has always been my favorite season to dress for. The textures get cozier, the colors get warmer, and suddenly, dressing up feels fun again.

I’ve been gravitating toward simple, polished pieces that have that classic look that comes back every year. I love wearing plaid in the fall: a little preppy, a little polished, and totally wearable.

Preppy and Plaid

I’m having a serious love affair with plaid mini skirts this season. There’s just something so effortlessly chic about them — part old-school academia, part Parisian street style. Paired with a fitted black long-sleeve tee, it feels pulled together but never fussy. Add tights if it’s chilly, or bare legs for these sunny fall afternoons that surprise you.

Fall Wardrobe Staple

Okay, hear me out: Adidas sneakers, but make them fashion. These brown and blush toned ones are everything. Sporty enough for errands but cute enough to wear with a skirt (like we did here!), they give this look just the right amount of cool-girl energy. Plus, your feet will thank you when you inevitably decide to walk the long way home under all those golden leaves. Remember when we used to wear uncomfortable shoes every day?

A Little Bit of Sparkle

I always say — never underestimate the power of simple jewelry. A classic tennis bracelet adds that perfect dash of sparkle without overwhelming the look. It feels polished, intentional, and a little luxe, which we love. I got one this year for an anniversary present and now it’s my favorite piece of jewelry to wear.

A Chic Bag to Hold All Our Things

This deep chocolate brown shoulder bag with gold chain details is pure autumn elegance. It’s roomy enough for your book, a lipstick, and snacks, but still structured and sleek. A win-win.

The Finishing Touch

And because no look is complete without a spritz of something special, Miss Dior is the scent I keep coming back to. It’s floral, warm, and has just enough presence to make you feel like the main character in your own story.

So whether you’re heading into the office, off to brunch, or just feeling like dressing up for a random Tuesday (because why not?), this look is a great place to start. Preppy, polished, and made for fall days full of small adventures.

Travel Series: Naxos

Published on by blonde rosieLeave a comment

I’ve been asked a few times what my favorite island was on our trip to Greece, and besides Santorini, Naxos is my favorite small island that I would go to again. It was hard to pack my suitcase back up and leave Santorini, but we had a lot more of our trip to enjoy. It was also a difficult adjustment from being on a yacht the day before and then taking the ferry to Naxos. The ferries deserve their own post to break down how they are the most chaotic but organized way to travel. After a short ferry ride, we stepped off the ferry to Naxos Town and right away it was the perfect little beach town. Our hotel room wasn’t ready so we dropped off our luggage and decided to walk around for a bit and get lunch. I had heard that the Greek club sandwich was a must-have, and it did not disappoint! I knew it was going to be hard going back home after enjoying fresh ingredients and food.

Naxos is known for its unfinished Temple of Apollo, built in 530 BC, and today, only its door remains, the Portara. You have to walk along a jetty to get to that part of the island and waves are constantly crashing along the rocks. We stood on the jetty and let the mist hit us to give us a break from the heat. It’s a bit of a climb up, but worth it for the view. Also really weird to be standing in a spot that is that old. During our trip, it would hit me that where I was standing was thousands of years old because we don’t have places like that in America.

HOTEL
Antony Suites

After walking around for a bit, we got the text that our hotel room was ready, so we walked back to the hotel to change and head to the beach. This was one of our “let’s save money on a hotel because we won’t spend much time here” and instead I wish we could have stayed longer! It was so cute and had so many great amenities. It was a nice surprise to learn that the beach was only a block away from our hotel and an even nicer surprise to find that we could rent lounge chairs and an umbrella for 35€. In my dreams, I would spend every day at the beach like this, enjoying a mojito!

We spent a few hours at the beach and enjoyed some drinks and snacks. We didn’t want to leave the beach but we went back to the hotel to shower and change for dinner. We had no plans for dinner except to walk around and pick a place. What’s nice about Naxos, is that there are a ton of restaurant options on the water and you can’t pick wrong. We went back up to the Temple of Apollo to watch the sunset and then had dinner at Meze Meze. What you need to know going to Greece (and even Europe) is that dinner is not quick and it’s going to take at least two hours. Fresh seafood is caught that same morning — grilled octopus, fish so tender it practically melted. I ordered the seafood risotto and even when I was full I could not stop eating! We finished up dinner at 11pm and my mind was blown by how busy the town still was that late at night.

We planned to sleep in the next morning, but I was up early, wanting to enjoy every minute of Naxos. Our hotel dropped off breakfast baskets and we enjoyed our Greek breakfast on the patio while we packed up to check out of the hotel. We had originally had an excursion planned that day which was cancelled due to water currents so we had to pivot.

We were told that we had to go see the castle built in the 13th century. We climbed to the top of the island to get to the castle and then took the long way back down weaving through alleyways and little shops scattered through the maze. After our walk, we decided we deserved a cold cocktail, so we stopped at Verus on the water. Drinks turned into food, and we spent the next hour just enjoying our drinks and food by the water. Not wanting to leave, we went back to the jetty near the Temple of Apollo and sat on a bench to enjoy the water. Naxos is an island that makes you want to slow down and just enjoy every minute of life.

That afternoon, we headed back to the hotel to pick up our luggage and make our way back to the ferry to head to the next island. Looking back at it now, we didn’t do much in Naxos except walk around, eat, and sit by the water. Just walking along the waterfront and enjoying the silence was such a nice way to relax and unwind. Naxos is a great walkable city that makes you slow down and just relax.

Welcoming Borromini to the neighborhood!

Published on by blonde rosieLeave a comment

After spending my teens and twenties fully obsessed with shows like Sex and the City and Gossip Girl, I always dreamed of that glamorous city life — you know, hopping from art gallery openings to the buzziest restaurant of the moment, preferably in heels I couldn’t actually walk in. I feel like I had that dream become a reality when Jake and I were talking about what restaurant to make a reservation at for our one year wedding anniversary. We settled on Parc because it’s one of our favorites, and it’s turned into our go-to for celebrations. The next day, Jake texted me that there was one opening available at the just opened Borromini restaurant in Rittenhouse Square. While Philly is not like New York City, it’s still a city with an amazing food scene. Jake and I are both foodies, and we love trying new places and trying new things. So when a reservation was available at a restaurant with a very known long wait list – I knew we had to jump on it.

I loved the vibe right away. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I could tell a lot of time and money went into transforming this space. The space is massive (it occupies two floors in what used to be a Barnes & Noble) and yet somehow still cozy. With the vaulted ceilings, mosaic tilework, rustic oak beams, exposed brick, and these soft warm lights that make you feel like you’re somewhere you should be dressed up but also comfy. It has that fancy restaurant vibe, but also a place I would be comfortable going to grab dinner after work. The best way to sum it up is that it was built for Philly because we like nice things, but we are also down-to-earth.

I’ve heard complaints that the restaurant was too loud, but I didn’t find it hard to have a conversation. If anything, it added to the positive energy with people being excited to be there. The resturant just opened, but it already had that this is the place to be and gather. The waitstaff is also very friendly; we bonded over the Eagles loss, and they are very knowledgeable about the menu. The waitstaff are attentive but don’t hover and don’t rush you through the meal. Since we were celebrating our wedding anniversary, the restaurant was kind enough to surprise us with glasses of prosecco with our desert that came out with candles. It’s that little extra touch that goes a long way!

It’s a small menu, but you can tell that each item has been perfected and is selected to pair well with other dishes. We started with the Caprese and the focaccia while looking over the menu. It was hard to choose one because everything sounded so GOOD! I went with the spaghetti al pomodoro, and Jake ordered the 100-layer lasagna.

We already decided we need to come back again during the week when we wanted to get a drink after work. The aperol spritz was refreshing, and the Pomodoro Martini was heaven in a glass.

If I had to describe the food, I’d say that it’s fresh – not overly seasoned, just fresh ingredients to highlight the already delicious dishes. You could taste the fresh tomatoes in the spaghetti al pomodoro, and the lasagna was light and fluffy unlike traditional lasagnas.

Borromini is a great addition to the neighborhood, and I’m excited to come back again! We are already planning the next time we can stop by the bar and grab a drink and enjoy the restaurant vibes!