Behind the Scene of Our Better Homes and Gardens Christmas Photo Shoot.

David Land Photography

This is no doubt a pinch me moment right here! In March, the Better Homes and Gardens team came to our hood for almost a week to shoot our feature. The image above showcases our tree in the sun room. I didn't get a chance to snap too many behind the scene pictures because so many things were happening and I was getting in on the action too!

Though a number of my own items were used, items/props were shipped from the BHG headquarters and else where. It was like Christmas; so much eye candy! 

lots of diy-ing; these paper garlands were so fun!

Fresh foliage and Christmas trees. They didn't skimp on anything. Not pictured were also an array of lovely florals.

I cleaned like a crazy person before they came but you wouldn't know it from this picture. Furniture and accessories etc. were moved around. It's all a part of the process of getting "the shot."

David Land, the photographer was amazing. He's obviously a talented photographer as you can tell from the images in the feature. However, what stood out most was how well he interacted with the boys. There is a glimpse of Ginger who stole everyone's heart.

David Land Photography

Speaking of Ginger, she also got in on the shoot action. Although she didn't make it in the magazine, she makes an appearance in the digital version of Better Homes and Garden that's available on IPad.

Getting the shot process underway in the playroom.

The editors had requested that the hubby recreate the Three Wise Men on the chalkboard because they really loved it when they spotted it on the blog. Luckily he was around to do it. You don't see the entire thing in the magazine, but it was spectacular and I did not want to erase it! 

I took a selfie because I had just gotten makeup and my hair done before shooting one of the scenes:-). Shout out to La Dolce Vita Spa!

David Land Photography

Zion and Ian were such champs throughout the process of numerous takes.  I am thrilled with the feature and it is 100% me. Most of all, I am happy that I was able to share the moment with the hubby. A very big thank you to the Better Homes and Gardens team that came to our home;  Christina, Kim, David Land, and David Williams. Also to Jody Garlock who told our story so beautifully and to my sissy Nicole at Live Laugh Decorate for the referral.  Copies are on sale now wherever magazines are sold or you can download their digital version here. xx

New Writing/Styling Job and Some Creative Inspiration

Do you remember when my local paper featured me and how I style my home for the holidays last Christmas? Well, guess what? Now I am not only styling for them, but also, writing too!

a scene from a backyard movie photo shoot that I styled and set up in our back yard

I am thrilled because this will make my resume look fab!. Well, I also get to do this from home and little Ian can come with me to work meetings. Love it!

A little bohemian set up I styled for the same photo shoot for the back yard movie night. Cocktails a la bohemian before a movie is always a great idea!

SO where does all this Writing taking place?

Just about anywhere where I can perch my laptop. I have been thinking that I really ought to create a designated creative spot aka an office. I really do not need or want a big space, just someplace pretty, organized, and inspirational. Here are some spaces that I love for my Creative Spaces Board on pinterest:

What does your creative space look like? Blessings and Happy Tuesday everyone! xx

{images: newspaper pics}