Creating An Inspired Home

 

 

Anyone who reads Cote de Texas knows that one of my favorite go-to’s each morning is the blog - The Lettered Cottage.  Layla writes her blog while her husband does the renovating to their darling cottage.  She’s a bundle of energy and has really shown all of us bloggers just how far you can take this medium.   She has created something truly special with The Lettered Cottage and it’s an real inspiration.   Each day, there’s something new going on there.  Whether it’s a funny video of the two of them ripping out yet another ceiling, or her showing us her latest flea market acquisitions or just trying to find a stray cat a home, Layla keeps it interesting and always humorous.  I look at her with awe and respect, she’s incredibly talented and also, she’s very, very sweet.  I know that one day I’ll be watching her on TV saying, “I knew her when” and I’ll be thrilled for her.  

 

Layla’s Dining Room:  Lettered Cottage Chic

 

When Layla started The Lettered Cottage, she mostly went it alone.  Her popularity quickly soared and now, just over a year later, her blog has a huge readership.  Along the way, husband Kevin joined her in the endeavor and it’s a true partnership now.  Together Layla and Kevin have taken design blogging into another realm, illustrating that with tons of hard work, determination and lots of laughs, a blog can be something much, much more.   Recently Layla’s been excitedly telling me about an E Book she’s been writing and today  “Creating An Inspired Home” is finally on-line!    It’s a how-to book, all about renovating and decorating,  filled with tons of tips and before & after pictures that show how you can create your own Lettered Cottage look.    It’s available for just $11.99 HERE.   If you are like me and can’t get enough of Layla and her cottage chic – be sure to stop by and check out “Creating an Inspired Home” today!

Congratulations Layla and great success to you and Kevin!

The Lettered Cottage blog HERE.

E Book: Creating The Inspired Home HERE.

Skirted Roundtable: Michael J. Lee

 

 Linda’s newly remodeled kitchen, photographed by Michael J. Lee

 

This week we welcome architectural photographer Michael J. Lee to The Skirted Roundtable.  Lee is kind enough to discuss the ins and outs of professional photoshoots.  Lee is a personal friend of Linda’s, having shot several of her projects (see above.)   Starting out as an interior designer, Lee brings an extra element to his photoshoots.   Most architectural photographers don’t have the design background that Lee has and this gives him a distinct advantage over competitors.  He is able to style the interiors, as well as photograph them, which is a rarity in this business.   During his interview,  Lee gives out helpful tips about how to take better pictures.   He claims it’s not the camera that makes a great shot!  Well, snort, thanks for telling me now, after I’ve spent a small fortune on cameras and lenses trying to get better shots for my blog!  Something tells me that he is being just a little humble.  Lee has a fascinating story to tell about first spending years working with the best designers in New England before he shifted gears in midstream, starting over again, shooting interiors instead of creating them.  It’s a good one this week, even if you aren’t into photography!  Be sure to listen, you’ll enjoy it!

 

 

This photograph had us all wondering exactly how he shot it – Lee explains!

 

To listen to this week’s Skirted Roundtable and our guest Michael J. Lee, go HERE.

To peruse Michael Lee’s web site,  go HERE.