Blogging

My (Loving The Simple Things) Blog Journey

lovingthesimplethings

Hello, my readers! Hope you all are having a great day and week so far. I can’t believe it’s been almost five years since I started blogging. I started blogging in August of 2014 and I have learned a lot in this journey. I actually started with two blogs – this one and a jewelry blog. The jewelry blog was an extension of my Etsy shop, but I later decided to close my shop and sell more in person and make custom pieces. That decision left me more time to dedicate to this blog, Loving the Simple Things, a DIY & Home blog.

This post contains affiliate links. See policies for more information.

My intention for this blog was very simple, to share my DIY projects. I spent most evenings after work starting, continuing or finishing some kind of DIY project. It was my way of winding down at the end of most busy days. However, I have more time to spend on the blog now and I’ve started making a little bit of money from my blog by using MagicLinks.

In this post, I will share how MagicLinks work and the other resources I have used to increase my blog traffic, in addition to other affiliate programs that you should look into also. I use MagicLinks for all my ready-to-shop product links on my blog. Check it out here.

Benefits of using MagicLinks

NO BLOG/WEBSITE NEEDED

This is absolutely, absolutely the best thing about MagicLinks! You do not need a blog or personal website to be accepted as a MagicLinks affiliate. You can use MagicLinks on your social media (yes, you read that right!), just  on your social media platforms. This feature really sets Magic Links apart from other affiliate programs.

EASY SIGN UP PROCESS

I signed up for MagicLinks about a month ago and I have made more money than I have ever made in the last five years of blogging. It’s not a lot, but it’s enough to pay for my WordPress subscription to start off.  It was really easy to apply for MagicLinks. On the application, you will asked about your personal information, your blog website address, blog description and social media accounts for which you plan to use links.

ACCESS TO A VARIETY OF RETAIL PARTNERS

MagicLinks is pretty much an affiliate program that lets you share links on your websites and social media. MagicLinks really save you time because it gives you access to many affiliate partners and even those that  are not currently accepting new applicants. For example, I applied to become a Wayfair affiliate and was not accepted. However, with MagicLinks, I can now share links for Wayfair as a MagicLinks user. The retailer list is endless, with so many categories.

RETAILER RATINGS

Another great thing about MagicLinks is that you get to see retailer ratings before you choose which retailer links you want to share. With this information, you can decide if certain retailers are work you time or not. Or what categories will earn you more money in the long run.

BROWSER EXTENSIONS

The browser extension is one of the most efficient features of MagicLinks. You can easily install the extension to add to your browser and use it to make links on my webpage at any time. NO NEED to first log in to your MagicLinks account, make a link and then paste it to your blog or social media. Simply make links on any webpage as you go.

EASY-TO-USE MOBILE APP

Are you on the go and don’t have your computer with you? Make links on your mobile phone! Simply download the App to your phone and make links anywhere. The App also features your recent links and your performance. You data  gets updated about every twenty four hours. This cool feature really gives you an idea of how your links are performing.

MAKE SOME MONEY!

So, as I mentioned earlier, MagicLinks is an affiliate program. Use it to recommend products to your readers and get a commission. You also have a few programs that run pay-per-click commission, so there’s no reason to not start making money on your blog from day one!

Thinking about making links with MagicLinks? Click here!

Other  Blogging Resources

WORDPRESS

Ok, so WordPress is my absolute best, best resource. It’s the home of this blog! I am definitely a satisfied WordPress user and would recommend it to anyone looking to start a blog. WordPress offers several subscription options for your budget – free, personal, premium and business. Thinking about starting a blog through WordPress.com? Click here!

CANVA

CANVA is truly a lifesaver. I use it to make my blog graphics. I have actually noticed that my blog graphics get more clicks than any other blog post images I post on Pinterest. Canva  is really easy to learn and use. With Canva, you have many graphic options such as blog banners/graphic, posters, logo, photo collage, infographics and so on. Sign up for a free trial and upgrade when you need to.

SOCIAL MEDIA

My go-to social media for my Loving The Simple Things is Pinterest. I discovered over time that most of my traffic is from Pinterest, so I’m sticking to it. It’s so easy to share to Pinterest from my blog through my WordPress mobile app.  Pinterest is a visual sharing platform and most of my blog graphics fit perfectly everytime. I have tried other platforms but they don’t work as best. I do share to twitter and Instagram occasionally.

Stay tuned. More resources to come!

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WordPress.com

Home Decor

All the Farmhouse Signs You’ve Ever Wanted

lovingthesimplethings

As you know, farmhouse decor is still trending and I don’t see it going away anytime soon. I was recently browsing for some decor on Amazon and couldn’t help but share some of the lovlies I found. Click on any of the images below for more information

This post contains affiliate links. See policies for more information.

This post contains affiliate links. See policies for more information.

Just Farmhouse

Family-Friendly

Bathroom

Loooove

Kitchen

Laundry Room

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img_9801how to maintain a minimalist homeimg_9112

how to maintain a minimalist home Spring-Inspired Home Decor Ideas
Home Decor

Budget-Friendly Decor Elements for your Coffee Table

Coffee tables are a must when it comes to furniture elements to complete a living room space. It’s usually the focal point of your living room, with the exception of a fireplace if one is present.

In this post, I am going to list out and describe the five must-have elements for styling a coffee table. Plus a few options to choose from if you’re in the hunt for these items.

This post contains affiliate links. See policies for more information.

Must-Have Coffee Table Decor Accessory #1: Trays

Trays are definitely a must! It gives you a second canvas (surface) as a platform for decorating. It also helps to bring separation to the items you place on the tray so they don’t get lost or look insignificant on the larger surface of a coffee table. Your options for choosing the perfect tray are endless. There’s a vast variety of style to choose from – wood trays, galvanized metal trays (if you’re going for the farmhouse look), mirrored trays, or you can grab a plain wood tray from Target or a craft store and customize it to your style. Want to save some extra bucks? Visit your local thrift store to find a tray you can update to your taste. See my tray update DIY here.

Uttermost Acela Natural Wood and Metal Round TrayMagot 18

Suprema Rhinestone Square Mirrored TrayMarnie Rectangular Mango Wood 2-Piece Trays Set

Must-Have Coffee Table Decor Accessory #2: Greenery/Something Natural

Having something green is not only recommended for your coffee table, it’s a must. You should have something green or faux green item in every room of your home. Anything that represents nature is great! Bring nature indoors brings life to your room and is also calming. Ofcourse real life plants is what I would recommend but sometimes anything faux green is great too. Faux flowers or plant stems in a vase are perfect for a coffee table. You can also consider a budget-friendly option of doing it yourself. Visit your local dollar store for faux flowers and glass vases. You can probably make “something green/natural for less than $5!

Pink Hydrangeas, Rose and Peony 11

Uttermost Hard Cream Coral 2-Piece Accent Sculpture Set

Cream Calla Lily and Grass 15 1/2

Must-Have Coffee Table Decor Accessory #3: Vertical Decorative Items

Tall decorative pieces add dimension to you decor. A mix of small, medium and tall objects helps to bring the eye up and down to different levels and keep the coffee table interesting to look at. Some options for tall decorative objects include sculptures, tall decorative vases, candlestick holders (or use long candles on a smaller candle holder),  lanterns, etc.

Corillian Rustic and Clear Lantern Pillar Candle Holder

Uttermost Golden Coral 17

 

Sparkle Black and Gold Table Decor Set of 2

Crystal with Silver Accents Taper Candle Holder

Must-Have Coffee Table Decor Accessory #4: Something Horizontal

Having horizontal items like books on your coffee table also gives it dimension. You can use it to add height to an item and to add a pop of color to your decor. Books do double duty also, as they serve as something for your guests to pick and browse through when there’s a quiet moment.  Fashion or Autobiography books are great because they serve as conversational pieces as well.

The Scout Guide

 

Chanel : Collections and Creations - by Daniele Bott (Hardcover) - image 1 of 1

Chanel : The Vocabulary of Style (Hardcover) (Jerome Gautier) - image 1 of 1

Vogue Living : Houses, Gardens, People (Hardcover) (Hamish Bowles) - image 1 of 1

Must-Have Coffee Table Decor Accessory #5: Something personal/unique

Having something unique and rare helps to bring personality and character to your coffee table. Try to find something that is not very common or is one-of-a kind. Scroll through some one-of-a-kind finds for ideas below!

Silver Pineapple 11 3/4

Walking Elephant 12 3/4

Silver Abstract 14 3/4

Uttermost Oja 27 1/4

Uttermost Mishka Metallic Gold Leaf Candelabra Candle Holder

Candelo 4 1/4

 

In conclusion….

The size of these coffee table essentials  should depend on the size of your coffee table. If you have a large coffee table, then go big on the trays, vases and other items.  Be mindul of the dimensions of your table.

Also, consider the color and design pattern of your coffee table. If your coffee table is already a piece of art on it’s own, you will need less decor than if it is just plain and simple. Less is more for a coffee table in the image below.

 

Shades of Blue Interiors

Still want more….

This piece is not exactly budget-freindly, but I could not resisit adding it on to this budget-friendly list. It’s just so unique and cute! Click on it!

 

Silver Decorative 9 3/4

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featured, Home Decor

25 Unique Spring Indoor and Outdoor Wreaths

lovingthesimplethings

Hip Hip Hooray! Spring is finally here!

I have to tell you, Spring wreaths are my favorite. I like the bright and fun colors that Spring brings. I have been looking for a wreath for my front door and I’m sharing my favorites with you all. While all wreaths are pretty, keep in mind the color of your door before you choose one. Choose a wreath that will complement the color of your house and door, not one that will blend in.

This post contains affiliate links. See policies for more information.

Click on any of the images below for more information.

The Yellows

Yellow Indoor and Outdoor Spring Wreaths

Luxurious Tulip Blossom Polysilk Wreath

21.2

Spring Tulip Wreath

 

The Whites

White / White Floral / Cotton Indoor and Outdoor Spring Wreaths

Faux Cotton Burst Wreath

Decorative Artificial Wreath - Threshold™ - image 1 of 1

Spring Tulip Wreath

The Greens

Green / Boxwood Indoor and Outdoor Spring Wreaths

Fresh Boxwood Wreath

Light Green Hotag with Berry Wreath

Harvest 24

The Pinks

Pink / Pink- Blush Indoor and Outdoor Spring Wreaths

11

21.2

 

The Reds

Red/ Red- Orange Indoor and Outdoor Spring Wreaths

National Tree Company 24 in. Tulip Wreath

The Blues/ Purples

Blue and Purple Indoor and Outdoor Spring Wreaths

Hydrangea 18

18

Will any of these spring wreaths being life to your front door? Which one is your favorite? Leave a comment and don’t forget to share and subscribe to my blog (at the bottom of this page).

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Home Decor

Spring-Inspired Home Decor Ideas

lovingthesimplethings

Being an interior decor enthusiast is very exciting! At random times of the day, I find myself browsing page after page of beautiful interior decoration ideas. It has become a never-ending habit and I love every bit of time I spend just browsing through the ideas of others. Right now, I’m itching to visit my local thrift store to pick up some items to makeover. I’m hoping to find a small bench or cushioned chair for our master bedroom. I’ll share all the details of my search and DIY makeover soon (when I find one 🙂

Spring Garden 18

Spring Garden Throw Pillow

 

Spring Mantel | Spring Decor Ideas | simplykierste.com
Image from Simply Kierste

 

Peek-A-Blue 32

Floral Illustrated Framed Art

 

10 DIY Spring Decor Ideas To Help Freshen Up Your Room
Image from Society19

 

Island Floral Giclee Glow Plug-In Swag Pendant

Island Floral Pendant Lamp

 

James R. Moder Florale Collection Silver 41

Florale Collection Chanedlier

 

Spring Cottage Porch Decoration.
Image from cottageintheoaks.com

White Peonies 14 1/4

White Peonies in Glass Vase

 

Cute Upcycled Rain Boot Planters.
Image from twelveaoksmanor.com

Today’s post is inspired by Decorating with Bright Colors on bhg.com. I was drawn in by all the bright and beautiful colors in this post that I just had to share.

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with or a paid supporter of Better Homes and Gardens (bhg.com).

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Home Decor, Storage Solutions

How to Add More Storage to your Home

It’s always nice to have creative and great-looking storage, nooks and corners to store things around the house. A clean house is an organized house. It’s easier to keep a clean house if everything in your home has it’s own storage spot. If items are constantly flaoting around, then you’re bound to have things laying around, and you will always waste time looking for things.

The places where we need the most storage are in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, home offices, play rooms and basements. I’ve gathered a few ideas of ways you add and use shelving units in these place. Click on any of the images below for more information.

Serra 1.0 White Wood 2-Door Bookcase

French Door Shelving – Check out the extra drawer at the bottom! Use it in your dinning room, kitchen or home office.

This post contains affilite links. See blog policies for more information

Utopia White Gloss and Maple Cream 3-Drawer Sideboard

Unique Splayed Legs Cabinet – Need more space for your dinning area and essentials? Look no further. This unique design cabinet is sure to be a focal point and bring on the compliments when you have guests over.

 

Valencia 2.0 White Wood Shoe Closet with Mirror

Mirrored shelving Unit: Add more shelving to any closet. This shelving unit would work really well if you need more space for your shoes, scarves, sweaters and small purses/clutches.

Carpina Home Oak White 3-Piece Ladder Shelf Office Desk Set

Ladder-style shelving – Great for a home office or for toy bins in a basement or play room or large closet.

 

Serra 2.0 White Wood 2-Door Bookcase with Splayed Legs

Splayed Leg Shelving – this would be perfect for extra space in the kitchen, bathroom, home office or library, laundry room or bedroom closet.

Valenca White Wood 4-Piece Bookcase Set

4-piece Shelving Set – This piece is definitely perfect for a child’s room, home school space or home office. It’s open and easily accessible for children of different heights. Each could be assigned to a specfic child. This piece can also work for a mudroom without built-in shelves.

Urbane Carpina White Ladder Desk

Budget-friendly ladder desk: Are you looking to carve out an office space in your already small home? This is your perfect option! All you need is about 25-inch wide wall space and less than $100. Plus you get a double feature for your bucks – a desk and storage shelves.

 

Cascavel 6-Shelf White Wood Stair Cubby Bookcase

Stair Cubby shelving: This piece lets you take advantage of your floor and wall space creatively. And it’s oh so super budget-friendly!

 

Fargo Gray Wood 4-Shelf Ladder Bookshelf

Open ladder-style shelving – but what sets this one apart from the rest? It’s open and airy. The open back will give your space a minimal look because it takes up less space and still gives access to wall space and color.

 

angelo:HOME Cruise Mid-Century Acorn 3-Drawer TV Console

Mid-Century Console – entry table anyone? with storage! This piece would look great in a entry way hallway with a large round mirror on the wall above it. It could also work in a home office or living room as a TV console.

 

Parsons White 4-Door Pantry

Kitchen pantry/storage: use this piece as your kitchen pantry extension. It’s very spacious and that extra drawer in the middle can hold your irregular-shaped items. It can also hold pots and pans, small appliances and other utensil.

Gallatin White Simulated Stone Infrared Electric Fireplace

White Cabinet Fireplace Cabinet: I’m sure we can all use some more heat this frigid Winter on the East Coast. Get more heat and more storage at the same time. More finishes are available.

 

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Everyday Love-Inspired Home Decor

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DIY Home Decor, DIY Projects

Easy DIY Decorative Boxes

I recently published a post about decorative boxes because they are so darn useful. You can use one as a decorative piece while it holds your treasures or useful junk. (Let’s be honest, junk is a box looks good as well..lol.)

Last night I helped my boys decorate shoe boxes for Valentine’s Day. The boxes will hold all their Valentine’s day cards and goodies they will receieve from their friends and teachers on this beautiful day.

I started with two shoe boxes.

This project is so easy and it took me about 15 minutes to make each box. Find some leftover gift wrapping paper, contact paper, some tape and a pair of scissors to make this decorative boxes. Check out your local dollar store. All these materials can be found there! You can also use a fabric or decoupage craft paper onto you box with mod podge.

 

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