DIY Backyard Citronella Mason Jar Candles

This week's post is all about an easy to do project. I love being outside in my recently renovated backyard but I hate the bugs. The bugs love me. With just a couple of easy to find items, you can create your own citronella candles from mason jars. I estimate that each costs $3.75 and will last you the entire summer. 

I imagine these to be perfect for a backyard wedding. They can serve the purpose of table decor, yet they keep the bugs away from your guests. 

Items needed:

Mason jar(s)

Citronella oil (purchased at Kroger but can also be found at Lowe's or Home Depot)

Rosemary (substitute any herb that smells good)

Lemon slices

Floating Candle

Ribbon (optional) 

Load up your ingredients in your mason jar (or decorative vase), oil, rosemary and lemon slices before topping with your floating candle. In just order three minutes you can have the perfect outdoor centerpiece that does double duty! The smell is fantastic and will keep you outside for hours on end. 

Can't miss Junior League of Knoxville's Bag-A-Bargain

Knoxville bargain hunters, this is the weekend you've waited all year for: The Junior League of Knoxville's Bag-A-Bargain! This event raises money for Mission of Hope, which is reason enough to come. But, truly the best part is the gigantic warehouse of amazing deals and rare finds. Last year, I bought a mid-century modern side table for $5.00! No joke! Grab your friends and join me this weekend. 

DIY Wrapping Paper Wreath

VIDEO DEMO

Making your own wrapping paper wreath is truly simple. You'll need one Styrofoam wreath (or cardboard), one roll of wrapping paper, hot glue gun and glue and invisible tape. Oh, and patience as this is very repetitive. 

Cut 150 strips of wrapping paper 2" x 8", using the wrapping paper with cutting lines made this super easy. Next, roll your strips into straws and tape together. Lastly, hot glue your strips onto your wreath. I did two rows, you could do 3 rows for more dimension but you'll need another 50 straws. 

Local favorite: Diana Fox, Interior Diva

I want to make a virtual introduction to my favorite local designer, Diana Fox. She can be found at Bliss Home as the ultimate interior design diva. She may look familiar as she also makes regular appearances on the Fox 43 Morning Show while showcasing her beautiful creations.

 

If you need a fresh pair of eyes to give you a modern home makeover, she's your gal. You won't go wrong with Diana!

P.S. She doesn't know that I'm doing this post because she's so modest! Houzz Page

Thirfty Shopping

I love spring because it means I will spend countless hours at garage sales, estate sales and thrift stores due to spring cleaning. Here are some features of great finds and also my tips and tricks for thrift store shopping.

 

 

Curb and Patio Appeal

I am in the final stages of decorating, sprucing up and preparing for our first veranda party on our newly remodeled back yard, drive way and front entry.

I'm interested in a patio heater since it's not quite warm enough to be outside all night. I think a patio heater would allow more outdoor entertaining through the season and provide potential light, decor and some have beverage stands for the adult beverage.  Patio heaters come in various sizes (free standing or table top) and in a multiple variety of colors.  I'm going to start with one patio heater and then see if I need to invest in a second heater. I especially prefer the outdoor heaters that don't require any electricity and can be moved to accommodate various furniture arrangements.

I also need to purchase a new mailbox (ours has been hit three times by construction companies and the utility company) but I'm hesitant if I should DIY a stone mail box or purchase another inexpensive one if the case that we may have another causality. I love this mailbox from Outdoorimpressions.net and I think I can create this. I think it would look nice with our new stone pavers and since our home is stone it would look very classic. Has anyone built their own mailbox and would recommend trying it?

I think a custom address plaque would look great with a new Stone mail box. I live on a busy street so the address plaque would come in handy as most of my visitors struggle to know which is my drive way.

I keep everyone updated as I put the final touches on my outdoor home projects.

Vote for Decorella in Metropulse Best of Knoxville

It's time again! Decorella came so close last year to wining a Best of Knoxville award. This year you should vote for Decorella in best local blog, best twitter account and best local website.

Vote today!

Benson Veranda WORK IN PROGRESS