Being one with nature has a way of inducing some sense of calmness and peace in people. With the effects of the recent pandemic still fresh, many people are still skeptical about going outside. However, there is a need to bring a little nature into the house. When people hear about bringing nature indoors, they quickly think about adding potted plants to their windows and living room. This may not be the case; there are several ideas on filling your home with natural elements. Most of these ideas vary from one residence to another. Here are a few ideas you may want to consider to bring nature indoor.

Design by Susan Zises Green, Photo by Francesco Lagnese via Veranda Magazine

Use furniture to bring nature indoor

There are several options to pick from when it comes to choosing furniture that brings in a little bit of nature into your home. Most people are known for designing furniture from natural materials such as rattan, seagrass, wood, wicker, and slate. When designing your dining rooms seats, or a family lounge, you may want to consider natural materials such as bamboo and rattan. These materials add some texture and tactility to the warm ambiance of your home. The best part of it all is that materials such as rattan and wicker are versatile and can be used to design varied furniture options. However, you may want to restrict them to indoor use only. This is because exposure to outdoor elements speeds up wear and tear. On the other hand, furniture made from synthetic wicker tends to last longer and can be used as outdoor furniture.

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Out of all of our loved ones in our lives, no one deserves more than our mothers. After all without them, literally none of us would be here. We should celebrate our mothers everyday, but socially there is one day in which we all collectively do it. And what better occasion to shower them with beautiful items that will make their lives more enjoyable and happier. Because let’s face it, some say objects don’t make us happy, but really they do and the more precious they are, the more they bring the power with them to enhance our lives. We may have many female figures in our lives that we feel they are almost like our mothers. But don’t fret, in this Mother’s Day Gift Guide, we cover those special aunts, sisters, friends, and grandmas here as well.

This year has been tough to everyone and If you are lucky enough and get to spend this Mother’s Day with your mom. You and your mom would probably go for brunch which involves a gorgeous bouquet of flowers. And that would probably be the most meaningful gift considering the fact that you didn’t see each other for the past year. If you and your mom haven’t been vaccinated yet, then the safest option would be to send her a gift. Here we cover just that. From affordable options to more exclusive ones, you’ll find the perfect present to show your appreciation and love for that special lady in your life. Does your mom enjoy gardening or is she more into fashion or design? We have the right gift for her, from the right garden tool, the ultimate Hermes/Apple gadget to the it bag of the moment.

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This year has been challenging to say the least. One great thing that may come from this strange year is a real and deep appreciation for our normal way of living. Looking forward to our post-Covid way of living to see what it will bring. Not all has been difficult for me, I for once have enjoyed the full time presence of my hubby and son and I have really loved having them both with me all the time.

Mid west interior designer, Julie Paulino Design

I know that many families may find having their family around all the time overwhelming, but I don’t. I love spending time with my hubby and son and Covid has given us no choice and the opportunity to do so. I just wish my other side of the family could also be here with us, but because of travel restrictions we will need to be remote this year. I’m also deeply thankful for the opportunity of starting Julie and Ev in the middle of this upending year. It was a long time dream of ours to share our worldwide finds with everyone who may be interested and combining our travel experiences with beautiful home aesthetics is a win win for me.

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This year we took a more relaxed approach to Christmas decorating. Instead of a front door garland, like last year, we opted for a wreath. We decorated every room in the house although lightly though. Small indoor planted Norfolk pine trees were displayed in the dining room and kitchen. While a bigger tree was decorated in our TV room where we spend most time at nights.

As the days approach for Christmas eve, fingers crossed a snowed one, I get more and more excited about this special time of year. It never gets old, everything from the Christmas carols, the rushing of Christmas presents, the planning of what to make for dinner to the expectations of the new year, every year is as new as it can get. And little other things throughout the year make up for this, the most wonderful time of the year.

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What is everyone agreeing on this year…? It is the unusual holiday season this year brings. During 2020, we have all collectively experienced the most appalling year in generations. I say that should be more of a compelling reason to give the right gifts to those we love and care about. In a year that has kept us apart from our near and dear, let’s let them know that they are still in our thoughts as well as in our hearts.

Here is Belle Vivir most complete gift guide for everyone of our family and friends. From the host who will for sure appreciate one of the chic gift sets from Julie and Ev to the kids in the family who can certainly used a laugh while playing with their new Squeakee the baloon dog. Here are our best git ideas for those you love.

Photo by Chris Craymer for Vogue Magazine
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