Interiors: My Favorite Accessories

As part of our upcoming move, I have the unenviable task of creating a worksheet detailing out each item we are shipping across the ocean as well as the replacement value (in Swiss francs, no less).  Now, thankfully, I am no pack rat collector :)  But even with that said, I'm finding myself wanting to pare down to the bare necessities in all areas and I've been challenging myself to think about what items really bring me and my family joy.......   Here's what I've come up with in the home accessories department..... (pardon the iphone pics)

Family photos in frames:  It goes without saying, right?  I love visual reminders of good times and sweet memories

Throws:  We love to cuddle up under a throw in our house.... and you can find one in practically every room.  We even have what we refer to as a "car blanket" in the car.  I'm partial to the yummy feel of cashmere and there isn't a time I walk into Homegoods or TJMaxx and don't check their selection for one.....

A Bowl of candy:  I did a post a while ago about a charming little book called "Let's Bring Back".... I'm sure this one is in there and I agree.  Didn't your grandma or mom always have out a candy dish full of butter mints?..... I'm partial to Swedish Fish (and endearing myself to my nieces and nephews)  :)

Candles:  Now, my favorite scent is this and my husband bought me the scent machine as a gift last year.  But, sadly, I've been told it is certain to surge out on me over there.  Regardless, I love the look of candles (scented or not) and they add instant warmth (figuratively & literally) to a room.

Books:  I can't imagine my home without books..... again, in every room.  They lend so much personality to a home and while I won't be taking my entire collection; I will certainly be shipping our family's favorites.

Collections:  Ok, maybe I'm a tiny bit of a collector..... case in point.... these pillows from Cat Studio.    While the bench won't be coming with me, the pillows will because as with all good collections... they bring me joy when I see them and there's sentimental value attached.

Trays:  I can't seem to get enough of a good tray..... wicker, metal, lacquered..... they help corral the everyday clutter and are also great on-hand stand-bys for a bar or breakfast in bed. 

  

Art:  I tend to find a home "cold" without art..... it's what breathes personality into a room and gives a sneak peek into the owner's taste and interests.  Almost every piece of art in our home was collected on a trip, given as a gift or made by one of my girls..... an instant reminder of good times when I see each piece.

Flowers:  I haven't lived without an orchid in my home for some 10 odd years now and I'd trade Starbucks any day for a $4 bouquet of flowers from the grocery.  In my mind, flowers mean something special is happening in the house...... and I love that feeling..... especially on an ordinary day. 

Do tell..... What's your "must-have" home accessory?