We have lived away from our family for almost 20 years. As you can imagine, that means a LOT of traveling back and forth for the holiday. Several years ago, we declared Thanksgiving as the ONE holiday we would no longer travel. We invited family to come our way, and they called our bluff. They. came. It’s a lot of working hosting a holiday gathering, but it is one of my favorite days of the year. The house is noisy, there’s food everywhere, and most of my family is gathered in my home–what’s not to like?
Of course, having out-of-town guests means having somewhere comfortable and relaxing for them to stay. My mom’s room (aka the guest room) needed some help, and thanks to West Elm it got it. I’ve been eyeing this duvet for months. Is it too bold? Would it look right in this space? Would my mom be ok with it? I got over all my worries and was truly giddy the day it arrived. It was exactly what the doctor ordered.
It is bold. It is classic. It brings some pizazz to an otherwise non-pizazzy space, and more importantly, it welcomes my mom with a big ol’ classy hug.
Since my kids were toddlers, she has told bedtime stories here, had major giggle fits (even after I yelled for everyone to go to bed), and even fallen asleep in here with them when they just wouldn’t stay in their rooms. She has done my dishes, folded my laundry, planted my flowers….the list goes on. So maybe this duvet offers her a space that says, “Thank you. Now go to sleep.” 🙂
A guest room should make people want to stay, and it should make them feel comfortable while they’re away from home. Can a duvet and some sassy pillows do that? I I think it’s evident that it’s more than that for me. Thanksgiving is an opportunity for me to show thanks by opening my home to the people I love and taking pride in my home by making it beautiful. So yeah, maybe it all comes down to a duvet.
Rest assured (get it? rest?), my mom will love it! And my kids will love bothering her in there. 🙂
So what is it for you? Are you hosting the holidays this year? What do you focus on when you know you’re hosting family? It’s a lot of work, no? But it’s totally worth it!
I can’t thank West Elm enough for sponsoring this new look. They may have provided the inspiration, but the stories about my mom were all my own. They don’t know her.
Sources:
- Bed-Pier 1 (purchased off Craigslist)
- Table-HomeGoods
- Peacock print-HomeGoods
- Glass dishes–Ikea
- Pillows-HomeGoods
- Lamp-HomeGoods
- Curtains-JCPenney
- Sunburst mirror-Home Depot
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What a gorgeous space you’ve created! I’ve been eyeing that same duvet for over a year. Bravo to you for going with your gut. I don’t think it looks trendy at all. I love how you’ve balanced it with classic pieces. I would be delighted to spend the holiday there!
I like the story about the family the best. My family is 2000 miles away so no holidays but I always host for all our friends that don’t have families to go to themselves so 3 days of cooking but thank goodness no need for a guest room if I had to put someone up it’s the couch. LOL
The room looks pretty but wouldn’t last 30 seconds in my home LOL Not fond of the comforter though but I’ve never much liked that look.
gorgeous! love the colors and textiles and the artwork! it looks awesome!
So beautiful! I want to come stay in that room! The duvet is one of my favorites from West Elm:)
“Thank you. Now go to sleep.” Seriously cracked me up! Love your disclosure statement as well. Your guest room looks fit for a queen, or rather a mom. Really they are one in the same though right? Beautiful room!
Such a beautiful room! Love the duvet!
-Shelley
Chris, this is gorgeous! I’ve been eyeing that duvet forever. The room really is stunning. Your mom will love it, giggles and all!
Chris!!! I love this room. Can I come be a guest there? It really is so beautiful. I love that peacock blue with the duvet, too. Such a light and bright space. Yay for adding pizazz!!!
Love that duvet cover and room!
Where did you get those gold and white cushions that are on the bed?
What lovely colors! I love the pillows!
You can’t go wrong with West Elm 🙂 Love that store! Your guest bedroom looks great for your momma:)
love the room. Where is the nightstand from?
You’ve inspired me to work on freshening up our guest room!! LOVE your color choices Chris!
Ummm…. seriously LOVE this.
The room is beautiful Chris! And wow! Who could complain with such a beautiful view like that! Pinned!
Wow – This space is absolutely stunning & relaxing! Will be sharing on my facebook!
I love West Elm! They have the cutest stuff. I really am loving the black plates- so fun and different!
That peacock print is fabulous. Where is that from?? Great job putting this together. Love West Elm!
Well, your right. Mom loves my storytelling, giggling guest room redo. It is so pretty, I had to relook at all your pictures. It’s stunning. The duvet gives off a classy vibe of texture. I’m in love with the whole side table area. Those colors are great. Now I have to come up with some exceptional stories to go with the room. I’m greatful I have such a wonderful daughter! Mom