Small-Space Dwellers: This Is How to Create a Foyer

Color! It’s no revelation that we worship it around here. But while it’s fairly easy to combine colors when DIYing, I find that I have to be more strategic when incorporating it into home decor. Enter Sherwin-Williams® ColorSnap® Visualizer: a handy app that lets me create color palettes DIRECTLY from a photo and provides exact corresponding Sherwin-Williams® paint colors. The app gives me confidence to dive into the bright world of color when redecorating rooms, and the outcome is a wonderful combination of professional technology and completely personal design. I’ve already renovated a living room and bedroom, and today I’ll be taking on a foyer.

Foyers are so rare for us small-space city dwellers that I’m not even sure how to properly pronounce it (fo-yay? fo-yer?) — but after teaming up with Sherwin-Williams®, I found a way to downright invent the space in a formerly drab hallway. Introducing what I call the shadow shelf! By painting a floating shelf *and* the wall directly behind it and using a bright bar stool as a side table, I created a designated entryway. These, plus a few wooden hooks and plants, turned a nothing into a something: It transformed a wall into a foyer.

The foyer’s color palette came from my Instagram of a windy July evening on the beautiful beaches of North Carolina, where my family often vacations. To me, sunsets always look like gigantic paintings in the sky, so why not actually paint my own home with the same hues? After toggling with the app for a little while, I landed on three paint colors available in the Emerald® product line.

Before using ColorSnap®, I never would have thought to combine these colors. But the combo really works — doesn’t it?

Materials + Tools:

Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Paint (I used SW 6890 Osage Orange, SW 6240 Windy Blue and SW 6282 Mauve Finery)

— angled nylon bristle paint brushes in assorted sizes

— small paint roller

— stir sticks

— paint tray + liner

— painter’s tape

— string

— push pins

— drop cloth

— iPhone

FYI, these are all the materials and tools you’ll need for both projects.

I extracted these Emerald® paint colors from our inspo photo: SW 6890 Osage Orange, SW 6240 Windy Blue and SW 6282 Mauve Finery.

UPGRADE YOUR BAR STOOL

To get comfortable using the paint, I started by updating a dreary old barstool with a much-needed coat of color.

SNOOZE FEST.

Stir your paint. Sit the barstool on its seat and paint the legs and underside using an angled, nylon bristle brush. Let dry, then give it another coat if necessary.

Once the base of the barstool is dry, turn it over and paint the seat. Add another coat if necessary, then let it dry completely. That’s it!

Trust me, a little bit of color — even on an overlooked piece of furniture — goes a long way when decorating a room.

HOW TO MAKE A SHADOW SHELF

Just as I did for the bedroom makeover, I used string, push pins and my iPhone Compass app to create straight lines. There’s actually a level built into the Compass app, which is a major game changer for home decor. Simply pin a string in one corner, use the level tool to create a straight, level line, then pin the string into place.

I first pinned the four edges then added one diagonal stripe through the middle.

Add painter’s tape along the string lines. By lining them up exactly against the string, you’ll ensure straight lines. Once all the tape is up and you’ve removed the string, add a strip of tape through the middle of the shelf exactly perpendicular to the wall. Eyeball the last piece of tape that cuts the front face of the shelf so that it’s perfectly lined up with your diagonal strip on the wall.

Pro Tip: Try to keep the tape on the roll as you tape the wall (instead of ripping off large pieces). This will help you have more control of the tape.

Now for the fun part: painting! Outline one side with paint using an angled nylon bristle brush.

Paint the rest of the wall and shelf with a small roller.

Once the paint is dry, remove the diagonal strip of tape. Place a new piece of tape directly on the other side of this line so that there will be no white space between the two colors. Paint the second side of the wall and shelf using a paintbrush on the edges and a roller in the middle. Let dry.

Remove all the tape and you’re done! This part is so, so satisfying.

I added some plants, a dish for my keys and hung up my inspiration photo to liven up the space. I also love using binder clips to hang photos — it adds an industrial vibe and means you don’t have to blemish the print with thumbtack holes. The whole shelf kind of feels like floating furniture, doesn’t it?

Bam, a foyer! Easy as pie. Check out the photos below for a few decor details:

Pro Tip: Use a cutting board or serving tray to add dimension and definition to a space. Suddenly my sunglasses feel like they have a home!

And when in doubt, add pretty flowers and mini golden unicorns. Done and done.

There you have it, a foyer! Next up, we’re transforming a dated office into a dreamy pastel workspace with the help of ColorSnap®. Stay tuned!

Will you try this foyer hack? If so, we want to see how it turned out! Share Instagram photos with the hashtag #iamcreative so we can take a peek.

This post is a collaboration with Sherwin-Williams®.

Author: Maddie Bachelder
Production + Styling: Maddie Bachelder + Irene Lee
Photography: Chris Andre

It’s almost time for our favorite holiday that celebrates accordingly with chocolate, hearts and the color pink: Galentine's Day! The love between gal pals is undeniable and totally worth celebrating. During this stage of life that we so lovingly call “adulthood,” we rely on our girls to support us through our jobs, the modern and scary world of online dating and any and all quarter-life crises. Let’s face it: We love and need our girlfriends. That’s why a day like Galentine’s Day is quite possibly the best day of the year!

Here's everything you need to know about hosting the perfect Galentine's Day brunch

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Today we’re teaming up with Studio Ink to show you how to host the most epic Galentine's Day brunch (even if it's breakfast in bed). We’ve got everything from red velvet heart waffles to DIY centerpieces to Galentine card writing stations. Studio Ink has an awesome collection of cards that are the perfect mix of sweet, sentimental, funny and cute. It’s not truly Galentine’s Day unless you send your besties Valentines… I mean, Galentines! Alright, let’s dive in.

What does Galentine mean?

Walls.io

Galentines are like Valentines, but for the girls! Though you may have a lover in your life, this holiday is all about celebrating your platonic friendships with your girl friends and just having fun with it! The holiday is slated for Feburary 13, the day before Valentine's Day, so you can have all the time to cherish your gal pals. Funnily enough, the day was coined by none other than the iconic Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation.

What food is eaten on Galentine's Day?

Brit + Co

Your Galentine's Day grub is really up to you and the girls, but the most popular bites include dips and chips, stuffed peppers, veggie skewers, waffles, cookies, cupcakes, cake pops, deviled eggs, bruschettas and charcuterie snacks. Finger foods are always a good way to go for any gathering.

What do you bring to a Galentine's Day brunch?

Brit + Co

For a Galentine's brunch, you can bring food items like cute snacks, desserts (topped with heart sprinkles, of course), healthy meals, drink mixers or mocktails. You can also bring handmade cards or gifts for each of your friends, and of course you have to bring your love!

The Spread

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

First, let’s talk about the food. It’s not brunch without a fabulous array of treats. For our Galentine’s Day brunch, the perfect setup includes: berry parfaits, donut skewers, mini muffins, bellinis and a red velvet waffle bar, displayed under a simple backdrop of letter balloons, paper hearts and tassels.

Decorate your table with a few gold bottles and single flower stems. You don’t want your table to be too cluttered, because you’ll want to also have space for all the card writing you’ll do!

Galentine’s Day Card Mailboxes

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

All your Galentine’s Day cards now have a home.

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Add some stickers to your mailbox for extra cute flair. You can download these Studio Ink Galentine’s Day stickers here. Just print on sticker paper and cut them out!

Cards

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Check out some tips and tricks for making your cards.

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

You’ve got mail!

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

I see more mail in the future. <3

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Check out how cute these cards are!

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

I don’t know about you… but all this card writing is getting me hungry. Which brings me to….

Galentine's Brunch Foods

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

These red velvet waffles were a hit when we tested the recipe at the Brit + Co kitchen, and they certainly will be a hit on your Galentine’s Day brunch table.

Red Velvet Heart Waffles With Cream Cheese Glaze

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Make these waffles with your favorite mix or from your go-to cookbook. Place the waffles on a platter along with the glaze and other toppings. We’re using heart-shaped sprinkles, obviously.

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Drizzle the glaze on your waffles with a spoon or with a pitcher. No matter how you do that drizz, your waffles will be delicious!

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Mmm, delightful!

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Okay, I already know I want seconds. What better way to wash down your second (and maybe third) helping of waffles than with a bellini? Check out this downloadable signature recipe here!

Studio Ink for Brit + Co

Brunch babes!

Check out our email newsletter for more Galentine's Day ideas!

This post has been updated.

Vanderpump Ruleshad quite a yearin 2024. After news of the infamous affair between Tom and Raquel (who we now call Rachel) broke, the show was never the same. Dynamics shifted, certain cast members stopped filming together, and the fun, flirty, and risky undertone we’d all come to love seemingly ceased to exist before our eyes. So, the announcement of Bravo discontinuing the original cast for their 12th season was far from a surprise.

While the show will carry on, its original, titular cast will not, which is why I’m reminiscing on the good ol’ days. If you too want a nostalgic re-watch, look no further!

Here are the 11 seasons of Vanderpump Rules ranked, from best to worst.

1. Season 2

Bravo

I know I may be stirring the pot putting season 2 in first place, especially over season 10, but in my humble opinion, season 2 didn’t have a single boring episode due to the drama-filled shenanigans the cast constantly got into. It was peak Jax Taylor and Stassi post-breakup flirting, followed by fighting within the same moment. Some of the show’s most iconic lines come from season 2, and for that, and that alone, it’s my favorite season. And how can anyone forget the infamous Golden Nugget dialogue between Stassi and Tom Sandoval? If you’ve forgotten, let me jog your memory.

“Three years ago, me and Ariana made out in a swimming pool at the Golden Nugget, yes that did happen” says a nonchalant and overly-confident Sandoval. To which Stassi replies, “The Golden Nugget? That’s like an all time low.” It's a moment of comedic relief, when it’s really not supposed to be, given Sandoval is admitting to cheating on his long time girlfriend, but I digress. Sandoval goes, “Are you kidding me? I love that place.”

2. Season 6

Bravo

“Rawt in hell!” If you read that in a southern Kentucky accent, you know exactly why I put this season at number 2. Another season chock full of iconic lines, season 6 did not disappoint. Brittany, who made it loud and clear that she moved all the way from Kentucky to Los Angeles just to be with Jax, was inevitably cheated on. While terrible for Brittany, it made for great content brimming with screaming matches and tears galore.

3. Season 1

Bravo

The season that started it all. We were introduced to the eclectic world of the Sexy Unique Restaurant, AKA SUR, in Los Angeles and its staff that would bring us over 10 years of fights, scandals, and gossip. We’re catapulted into this series off the heels of a tense conversation between Scheana Shay and Brandi Glanville. It’s not until the end of their conversation where Scheana gets up, and walks into what would soon be one of Bravo’s most popular series.

I hope Bravo gave whoever thought of that introduction a raise, because it was quite literally the most iconic way to start a reality show. There’s something poetic about a reality show blossoming out of an affair, and ending because of one.

4. Season 3

Bravo

James Kennedy, or should I say White Kanye, is introduced in this season, thanks to “Crazy Kristen.” I’m not a fan of James for a multitude of reasons, but he did bring a flare of comedy the show lacked before his presence. Oh, and not to mention, Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix begin their tumultuous relationship in this season. Seriously, rewatching this show makes me want to hug young Ariana and simply ask her “why?”

5. Season 4

Bravo

Over the years we were met with a plethora of additions to SUR, but none of them stuck around quite like Lala Kent did. We were introduced to Lala in this season and she was an absolute force to be reckoned with and brought enough drama that proved she was in it for the long haul. Not only that, but Jax and Brittany debuted their – at this point, very fresh and unstable – relationship. If that wasn’t enough, Tom begrudgingly proposed to Katie to wrap this season up.

6. Season 5

Bravo

Tom Schwartz and Katie Maloney tie the knot, and while this season should’ve been a proclamation to their love it was instead a grave indicator of their ill-fated marriage. I want to make it known, Katie is not responsible for this. I love her and do think it was all Tom’s fault — the man was more in love with his best friend. I digress, this season was phenomenally messy and I’ve gotta say, the wedding turned out to be gorgeous.

7. Season 11

Nicole Weingart/Bravo

The season that marked the end of the legacy that is Vanderpump Rules. This season was filmed after the affair heard around the world. The reason for the low ranking on this season is quite obvious – the producers were far too involved. The producers were like that kid in class that just won't stop sending you love letters and never getting the hint. I’ll never like Tom Sandoval, and had the producers understood that, maybe we would’ve still had this cast. To this day, I’m still unsure how Ariana managed to stay strong throughout it, especially with a sea of envious women—who had once been masked as her friends—plotting against her.

8. Season 10

Bravo

While most of this season was a yawn, the finale and grand reveal (we’ll call it) made the sticking around worth it. For this reason, it’s a season that’s superior during a re-watch, iykyk.

9. Season 7

Bravo

Do you remember the preceding 6th season being consumed in its entirety by the drama of Jax cheating on Brittany? Well, if that situation wasn’t already frustrating, season 7 takes the cake. Jax proposes to Brittany, she says yes, and that’s pretty much all you need to know. Kidding, of course. Major drama ensues because everyone in the group knows they shouldn’t get married – which says a lot coming from this group of people. Though, it's tired drama that dragged on two too many seasons, if you catch my drift.

10. Season 8

Bravo

The cast grows up in this season (they were in their 30s) and seemingly move onto bigger and better things – houses they all couldn’t afford. Boring additions to the cast were introduced, cough, cough Dayna and Max, and removed just as fast. All around, this season didn’t have much to offer other than Jax trying to stir up weird, pretend drama around his wedding events.

11. Season 9

Bravo

Ah, season 9. I can’t blame the cast entirely, in terms of this season’s demise, as that’s mainly due to COVID halting production. Nevertheless, it seemed as though the cast didn’t know where to pick up. (Can I blame them? The break must’ve been nice). Lala and Scheana had babies, Schaena and Brock got engaged, and the world kept on spinning.

Which season of Vanderpump Rules is your favorite (or least favorite)? Let us know on Facebook!

December always has a way of sneaking up on us with a frenzy of cute holiday decorating, festive gatherings, and dreaming up the best gifts for our besties. If this month has you feeling more frazzled than festive, don’t worry—we’ve got you (and them) covered.

Charles Chocolates

Charles Chocolates Winter Fleur de Sel Collection

We partnered with Charles Chocolates, the award-winning artisanal chocolate brand, to create a gift guide filled with unique and just-a-little-bit bougie finds, because everyone deserves to treat themselves once in a while, holiday season or not! From a plushy robe and scented candles to a box of the most creative handmade chocolates, including a chocolate box you can actually eat, these picks are perfect for everyone on your list — and maybe even a little treat for yourself.

Score a FREE Charles Chocolates Bar when you spend $25 or more!

The Coffee Lover

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Winter Collection Edible Chocolate Box

These coffee-lover gifts, including a colorful French Press and adorbs mug, are sure to perk up your day — and theirs! Pair your morning cup with a delicious piece of handmade chocolate for the ultimate sensory experience. You can literally eat the box in this Winter Collection from Charles Chocolates filled with Fleur de Sel Caramels, Peanut Butterflies and Milk Chocolate Caramels. SO good!

Featured:

The Cozy Homebody

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Holiday Collection

For the pal who loves to stay in and get cozy, here’s a cute kettle for steeping her favorite tea, some cozy wears, and Charles Chocolates Holiday Collection with flavors like Pecan Fleur de Sel Caramel, Cinnamon Spice Truffle, Orange Zest Truffle, and Maple Truffle. Charles Chocolates are all natural so it’s real chocolate vs. a sugary (read: cheap) substitute. The flavors are so unique and fun to taste-test. It’s the perfect gift for when you’re feeling indoorsy!

Featured:

Your Holiday Crush

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Peppermint Bark

Sneak a fancy chocolate bar, like Charles Chocolates Peppermint Bark Bar, made with homemade peppermint candy, in your S.O.’s stocking, plus some essentials for the camper, music lover, and beanie wearer!

Featured:

The Sweet Tooth

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Bittersweet Chocolate Santa

Sweet tooth be gone with Charles Chocolates Bittersweet Chocolate Santa Clause. This thing is not small, weighing in at 3 lbs. of deliciously rich chocolate. Adults will actually enjoy this vintage-style Santa as much as kids! Pair with a bottle of wine dressed in an adorable bow, a cake stand candle (so cute!), darling dessert plates, and/or a baking lover’s cookbook! Toss some mint chocolate almonds in stockings too!

Featured:

Your Jewish Bestie

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Hanukkah Collection Edible Chocolate Box

There’s a lot of talk about Christmas this time of year, but not all of our friends celebrate. And this year, Hanukkah starts on Christmas day so we can celebrate together! Gift your bestie who celebrates the Festival of Lights with this Hanukkah Collection Edible Chocolate Box filled with flavors like Fleur de Sel Caramel, Passion Fruit Heart, Espresso Caramel, and Meyer Lemon Yankee. They might also enjoy a new cookbook celebrating their heritage, cozy slippers, jewelry, and an artful wine decanter for the holidays. Candle-lighting matches are a perfect stocking stuffer or White Elephant gift too!

Featured:

Score a FREE Charles Chocolates Bar when you spend $25 or more!

You’ve heard of Whole Foods’ Cookie Butter Latte. Now, let me introduce you to the S’mores Latte, the all-new bev from none other than the Whole Foods coffee bar. Just like the name suggests, this latte features flavors from the classic campfire snack. Whole Foods fans are already so excited about it – and you’ll want to get a taste quite quickly because it’s a limited-time item.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new Whole Foods S’mores Latte!

Whole Foods

According to a Whole Foods team member, the new S’mores Latte is made with 4 pumps of smoked vanilla syrup and 3 tablespoons of mocha sauce for a 16-ounce drink. Some fellow Whole Foods workers noted that this concoction makes the S’mores Latte “overly sweet” and that it has a noticeable “smoke taste,” likely due to the unique smoked vanilla flavoring. But hey, if anything’s meant to taste like a s’more, I’m 100% in.

Cora Pursley

The S’mores Latte, per Whole Foods, is available to order hot or iced. You can easily customize the type of milk (WF says “there are non-dairy options provided”) and the amount of syrup that goes into your sip if you like things a little less sweet.

Whole Foods gave their Instagram followers the scoop on the new, limited-time S’mores Latte, and plenty of shoppers were quick to share their thoughts:

“A dream!” one person commented.

“Now I want this immediately 😍😍,” another said.

While some users were clearly in love, an equal amount seemed not so excited.

“I tried it and was… not a fan 😢,” one person wrote.

“Haven’t had one good review about it yet,” another said. “Don’t recommend.”

“I really wanted to like this because I love the brown butter latte but I was disappointed ☹️,” one more commenter wrote.

“It seems to be 50/50 on whether someone will like it,” this Reddit user concluded.

Emilie Faraut

The Whole Foods S’mores Latte is available at participating coffee bar locations for a limited time until February 4, 2025. According to a Whole Foods coffee bar menu posted online, a regular latte can cost anywhere from $4-$4.50. The price for the S’mores Latte might be a bit higher than that, and of course, pricing will likely depend on where you live.

Caroline Taborda

If you want to try making it at home, here’s what you’ll need for your very own S’mores Latte:

  • Smoked vanilla syrup
  • Mocha sauce
  • Espresso shots
  • Milk of choice

You can adjust the measurements, number of espresso shots, and amount of milk based on your personal preferences. I think this drink would also taste amazing with a cold foam topping and graham cracker crumbles, a la Dunkin’s popular (and very tasty) S’mores Cold Brew.

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Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift doesn’t have to cost a fortune, thanks to none other than Amazon. Their site is packed with budget-friendly finds that will still make your loved ones feel special! From makeup goodies to decadent chocolate sets, I scrolled through hundreds of Amazon finds and landed on these 15 ahh-mazing gifts under $20.

Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting someone else, these Amazon Valentine's Day gifts under $20 are sure to spark the most joy without breaking the bank!

Amazon

Knit Tote Bag

This cutie $13 tote bag will come in handy for any occasion: sleepovers, craft nights, workouts, camping, and more! Plus, the hearts are simply adorable.

Amazon

Kindred Spirits: Cocktails for Two by Stephanie Wahler

For someone who likes to sip, this $16 recipe book is tailored perfectly towards creative drinks that the two of you can enjoy together.

Amazon

L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

Made with 20% shea butter, this $14 tube of hand cream expertly protects hands from cold, dry air and nourishes the skin.

Amazon

Gold Stud Earrings Set

This darling $13 set will totally dazzle your Valentine this year.

Amazon

Mosanana Rectangle Sunglasses

Keep 'em looking cool with these stunning $15 shades. 😎

Amazon

Ferrero Rocher Gourmet Valentine's Chocolates

Ferrero Rocher chocolates are just as classic as red roses when it comes to Valentine's Day. Snag this bougie box for just $12!

Amazon

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm

You can't go wrong by gifting this cult-favorite lip balm. Its $19 formula delivers unparalleled hydration to the lips with shea and murumuru seed butters.

Amazon

Physicians Formula Heart Blush

This charming $11 blush palette comes complete with plenty of hearts for a natural, rose-tinted glow.

Amazon

Mini Crescent Shoulder Bag

Nothing gets the girls going like a cute lil' bag! This sleek $15 number comes in so many different colors to suit your giftee's personal style and looks just like popular designer styles that go for $200+.

Amazon

Laekou Cute Strawberry Keychain

Add this adorable $8 bag charm for extra flair!

Amazon

NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip

This thick, pigmented lip oil gives the ultimate Valentine's Day pout for just $9.

Amazon

Lego Roses

These roses won't wither away, so your giftee will be reminded of your love year-round.

Amazon

Sok It Insulated Cup Sleeve

This cutie $16 cup sleeve is your Starbucks order's BFF. It keeps cold drinks colder for longer, all while blocking out condensation that may interfere with your car commute or desk setup.

Amazon

Heart Slippers

These on-theme $17 slippers will keep their feet warm with a plush fleece lining. The non-slip soles allow safe steps, indoors or out.

Amazon

See's Candies Valentine's Day Hello Hearties Box

Packed with a variety of milk and dark chocolate treats like truffles and marshmallows, this $17 box is the perfect V-Day gift for someone super sweet.

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