If you’re getting married soon, there’s a chance you’ve already asked a group of your best girls to be a part of your bridal party. These girls are wonderful women who you have known for years, and maybe one in-law you’ve known for a few months. But, regardless of how long you’ve known your bridesmaids, they’ve made such an impact on your life. Enough of an impact for you to ask them to be a part of your special day.
As a bride, you’ve probably gotten so used to being showered with gifts over the past few months. But now it’s time for a few other people to get something special. Typically, brides give their bridesmaids a gift on the day of the wedding, and if you’re struggling to think of what to give your girls, here are a few unique gift ideas your bridesmaids will love.
Stylish Nightshirts for Getting Ready
Here’s something your bridesmaids will love to wear long after your special wedding day – stylish, white cotton nightshirts. These white sleep dresses are the perfect piece for those coveted wedding photos you and your girls will take while getting ready. Plus, they’re breathable and liberating, so your friends will spend their morning in comfort.
After your special day, anytime your friend puts one of the white cotton dresses on before bed, they’re going to remember those special memories they had from wearing these special matching nightshirts. They might even be inclined to buy the same white cotton dresses for their bridesmaids in the future.
Beautiful Glassware
If you and your girls are experiencing the pre-wedding jitters, you’re probably all going to indulge in an alcoholic beverage or two. Typically, the bride and her party will sip on champagne while getting ready, but what about a Moscow Mule? They’re a unique drink and you can gift your girls with their very own Moscow Mule mug to drink out of on the big day. You can also have the mugs monogrammed for an extra special touch. It is a cute way to make the day more fun. Cheers to the beautiful bride-to-be and her special bridesmaids!
Monogrammed Slippers
We all know how unbearable it can be to wear heels for hours at a long wedding. These soft slippers will be perfect for your bridesmaids to wear while getting ready. The amount of time your bridesmaids will spend getting ready and helping you look your best will be worth it, and these slippers will just make running around that much pleasurable. Open-toed or close-toed waffle weave slippers by Jacaranda Living are available, and special monogramming upon request! Your girls and their feet will thank you.
If you’re looking for a gift for your bridesmaids that’s a bit unique, take a look at the suggestions above. Hope they help you and your best girlfriends enjoy the party that much more!
Author: Jacaranda Living
Cotton vs. Satin: Which Pillowcases Are Better?
How much sleep you get each night is extremely important. If you don’t get a lot of sleep, chances are you’re going to be grumpy and not on your A-game the following day. Newborns sleep a total of 10.5 to 18 hours a day, but as adults, we need just about eight hours. Lack of sleep can often be due to sickness, living arrangements, or the fact that you’re still in college and have to pull your fifth all-nighter this semester. But lack of sleep can also be due to the fact that your bedding isn’t as comfortable as it could be.
It’s the age-old pillowcase question: Which is better — cotton or satin pillowcases? If you are currently stuck with the option of satin or cotton pillowcases, here is a lit of what you need to know about each of them.
Cotton Pillowcases
Cotton pillowcases are extremely comfortable if you’re looking for a really good night’s sleep, but if you have curly hair, you’re going to regret laying your head on them. Cotton is an absorbent fabric which means while you sleep the pillowcase may absorb some moisture from your hair and cause a few tangles. On the bright side though, cotton is very breathable in perfect for warmer climates where you want to lay on something that will keep you cool. Say hello to an excellent night’s sleep during those hot summer months! In addition, cotton stays soft throughout its lifetime and gets more comfortable with every wash.
Satin Pillowcases
Satin pillowcases are perfect for the curly haired people of the world as they are extremely smooth, won’t absorb moisture, and won’t create friction. Many people confuse satin pillowcases with silk pillowcases, but it’s important to note that satin is man-made and silk isn’t. Satin is made of a synthetic fiber. It’s not as expensive as silk pillowcases, and can also be used for decorative pillow or boudoir pillow cases. Boudoir pillow cases are perfect for any room in the house, so keep that in mind when picking out the perfect types.
Sleep is extremely important and isn’t successful solely based on the white cotton dresses or white nightshirts you wear to bed. It’s also based on what you’re laying your head on. Now that you know a little bit more about these two types of fabric for pillowcases and if they can be used as boudoir pillow cases or not, which are you going to choose?
Why Can't I Get a Good Night's Sleep During Spring?
Bedtime is typically your chance to unwind after a potentially stressful day at the office so put your feet up and shut your eyes. Considering how important sleep is, it’s important to note that spring is typically the hardest time of the year to actually get a good night’s rest. If you find yourself struggling to sleep well during the spring, here are some reasons you might be having trouble.
Allergies
Spring is usually one of the most allergy-ridden times of the year. It’s just about that time when trees and all other plants start shedding pollen, which leaves many people having itchy throats, runny noses, and burning eyes. Needless to say, it can be really difficult to fall asleep and sleep well throughout the night with these allergies. One thing you can do to help your sleep is to make sure all of your sheets, boudoir pillow cases, and blankets are consistently being washed. Boudoir pillow covers are really good in general since they are made out of cotton, but it still is important to wash them weekly along with the rest of your bedding in hot water. This will help eliminate any of the allergens that you brought into bed after a long day outside. Plus, your embroidered and decorative pillows will smell nice after you wash them. In fact, about three-quarters of people say they get a more comfortable night’s sleep on sheets with a fresh scent.
It’s Light Outside
Many people may be excited that it’s not getting as dark as early anymore, but the fact that the sun is setting later means it’s going to rise sooner. If you are generally awoken by the sun, you might need to install some blackout curtains in your room. The blackout curtains, as their name suggests, will prevent light from coming into your room, so you’re not waking up before your alarm goes off. If you don’t want to have a fully blacked-out room, wear an eye mask instead.
The Birds!
If you’re not a fan of birds chirping early in the morning, then you probably hate spring. Usually, during the springtime, the birds are awake before most humans are. If you have a bird’s nest right near your window, you might think there’s nothing you can really do about the noise. You can’t move the nest, but you can wear a pair of earplugs to bed. The earplugs will do enough to block that excess noise out, but will still allow you to hear your loud alarm going off so you can start the day on time.
Spring is one of the best times of the year, but it can be one of the worst for your sleep. Take a look at the steps listed above and if you find yourself in any of those situations, test a few of the solutions we’ve offered here.
3 Ways to Add Character to Your Home With Accent Pieces
Renovations and remodeling are happening all across the country right now, and that in large part has to do with the sudden desire of a modern design throughout the home, according to The Spruce. Homeowners are performing all sorts of changes in order to make their home the perfect modern paradise.
The modern style, at least the one that is trending now, does not have one particular set of rules. A modern home means many things to many different people. However, there are certain guidelines that the modern style follows. For instance, an interior design trends survey from 2017 revealed that more than one-third of the respondents would choose a neutral color pallet if they redecorated their home. What else goes into the modern style? Believe it or not, adding character. Here are three accent pieces to put in your home if you are looking to add some character.
Decorative Pillows
Decorative pillows are great because they can go in almost every room, and they can look however you want them to. If you want to add a pop of color to your living room, purchase some accent pillows. Embroidered pillows and boudoir pillows alike can also be used in any room to add decorative flair. Bedroom (boudoir) pillows typically have interchangeable looks because boudoir pillow covers and boudoir pillow cases are available to replace the current ones. Whatever you’re feeling, for any room, throw in a decorative pillow.
Decorative Rugs
Hardwood floors are a typical feature in a modern home, but they are not necessarily practical everywhere. For your living room or bedroom, put a rug on the floor that matches your personality with color and style to spruce up the room. This will add a ton of character because it is unique to you.
Light Fixtures
Instead of having a boring overhead light or lamp in the living room, replace the light fixtures with new pieces. Your style can be expressed through the light fixtures in the room because you have so many options to choose from. Colors, shapes, styles, and so much more are just around the corner when choosing your new light features.
If you are looking to update your space and give it some rockin’ character, you are not alone. Add some decorative pillows, eclectic rugs, and new light fixtures to any room to make your design style pop.
How to Bring Simplicity into Your Bedroom
After you come home from a long day at work, you probably want to just kick back and put your feet up. Creating a peaceful space in your home can actually allow you to do just that while clearing your mind of the hustle and bustle. This simple space is an easy way to make everything around you stop for a little while.
Many people choose to create their peaceful, quiet space within the walls of their bedroom because it’s the easiest place to feel relaxed and energized for the days ahead. There are some great things you can do to bring peace and simplicity into your bedroom, too.
First, probably the most important thing you can do is get rid of all the clutter in your space. It’s understandable that things add up over time and it’s common to just throw everything into the corner of your bedroom, but it’s not really great for your mind. Having that much clutter in one room can make it really hard to sleep at night. Take the time to go through all of the junk that has accumulated in your room and organize it. Throw out the things you no longer need, go through your closet and get rid of the clothes you haven’t worn in five years, and make this space look as empty as possible.
Creating a white color palette is another way to bring some serenity into the space. Now, this doesn’t just mean changing your bedding and painting the walls. It also includes what you’re going to be wearing to bed. White cotton pajamas, white nighties, and white cotton nightgowns are all perfect options. White cotton pajamas are breathable, soft, and luxurious. you can find white cotton pajamas in any type such as ladies nightgowns or Victorian style nightgowns. You’ll be able to sleep peacefully at night knowing that you’re wearing something that will keep you cool enough at night but also warm you up during the colder months. And if you buy percale, which is any cotton woven with a 200 thread count or more, it is more durable than a cotton satin of the same thread count. It’s also less likely to pill than cotton satin fabric because it has a denser weave.
Finally, making your bedroom a space that is reserved specifically for relaxing and sleeping is an easy way to bring some simplicity to your life. Ditch the TV, the stereo, and the electronic devices. Those things do not belong in your bedroom or any space that will be used for peace.
If you lead a busy life it’s so important to have a place where you can feel calm and relaxed. Making your bedroom that place can allow you to come home after a long day, take off your shoes, and get a good night’s sleep.
Why Choosing a Nightgown Is the Best Option for Your Sleep
There’s nothing better than hopping into bed after a long day at work. It’s the time of your day where you get to relax and unwind.
During this time, you should be able to feel really comfortable, and that isn’t just a determining factor of how cozy your bed is. What you wear to sleep is extremely important, too. While many people choose pajama sets, old t-shirts, or nothing at all, modern nightgowns are a great choice for a few different reasons.
They’re Long-lasting
The best nightgowns are made from the finest cotton, which not only means that they’re good if you have allergies, but they will also last for many years to come. All of the times you throw your nightgown into the wash won’t impact the quality of your white cotton nightgown. You can sleep in the white nightie for a long time without having to worry about ruining them. It’ll definitely be the Victorian style nightgown that you can wear time and time again.
You’ll Sleep in Style
Not only are white cotton nighties great due to their longevity, they’re also very fashionable. Choose from classic Victorian inspired nightgowns with touches of embroidery and lace, or from modern, simple styles all in pure cotton. They’re extremely feminine, yet also offer a retro appeal. You can choose the length of the sleeve depending on your comfort level. You’ll have a choice of no sleeves, capped sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, or full sleeves. Hem lengths range from short to knee and ankle length. All of these options are extremely fashion forward. They’re also great for young women and teenagers. Also breast-feeding young mothers love the button-front styles – practical, pretty and natural.
They’re Comfortable
Above anything else, it’s important that you are comfortable in what you’re wearing to bed when you go to sleep. If you’re in something that’s too stiff or too tight, you’re probably not going to sleep very well that night. If you’re in something that’s so thick and heavy, you’re probably going to wake up in the middle of the night sweaty and uncomfortable. Since the nightgowns are made from a pure cotton material, they’re very breathable, flexible, and comfortable. They’re warm enough to wear in the winter, yet cool enough to wear in the summer.
It’s important for a person to get seven to nine hours of sleep per night in order for them to function properly. Without the right outfit, your sleep will be disrupted. The next time you head to bed, make sure you’re putting on your nightgown to ensure a night full of peaceful and comfortable sleep.
Why Cotton Is Still the Number One Fabric Choice
Cotton has been the favored fabric choice for pretty much everything for a very long time. Cotton is still preferred by a huge number of people around the world.
In terms of style choices, 44% of Americans report that they have an overall “traditional” home, while 22% say they have a modern style, 13% say their home is eclectic, 10% call their style “country”, and 2% of Americans say their home has a global theme.
What does this mean for cotton? Cotton is a staple in the traditional home style. There is really not a more traditional fabric out there. But why do people still love cotton after all these years? Here’s why, according to LiveStrong.
Moisture Control
Cotton fabric is known for being breathable. Livestrong tells us that cotton “transmits moisture away from the body and is absorbent and removes liquid from the skin, like a towel.” This makes it the perfect material for apparel like white cotton nighties (or other ladies nightgowns) as well as sheets and other bedding. Sleeping in cotton is incredibly comfortable when it keeps you dry all night long.
Insulation
In the summertime, cotton actually protects skin from the heat. It also keeps us warm in the winter. How are these both possible? Cotton provides thermal insulation that allows the fabric to hold itself away from the skin and encourage more air flow. Sleepwear, like Victorian pajamas, is made out of cotton for this very reason.
Hypoallergenic
Cotton rarely causes allergic reactions on the skin from contact, unlike many other fabrics. Wearing cotton is usually recommended for people with skin allergies. This makes cotton a great material to use for things like boudoir pillow cases because it is so gentle on the skin.
Durability
According to LiveStrong, “cotton has a high tensile strength, making it strong, durable and less likely to rip or tear. It is 30 percent stronger when wet, withstanding many washings in hot water.” If you want your towels to last for years, make sure they are made of cotton.
Cotton is comfortable, practical, and lasts a long time. It is the perfect fabric to use when making items like white cotton nighties or pillowcases for your guests. No wonder it has been the number one choice of fabric for all of these years.
Hit the Hay like a Jane Austen Character
There is something undeniably enchanting about the pages of a Jane Austen novel. The elegant female leads go about their days with grace, entertaining and engaging in literary dramas. And they certainly go to bed with the same poise. With the right decor and nightwear, you too can rest in typical Jane Austen fashion. All it takes is some classic white cotton nighties and classic decor. To make your Pride And Prejudice dreams come true, consider the following bedtime ideas.
Victorian Nightgowns
Feeling like a proper Jane Austen character is all about how you carry yourself, and this starts with how you dress. By having a set of white cotton nighties in your wardrobe, you can pull on these pieces out every night and welcome luxurious comfort.
Boudoir Pillow Cases
Once you dress yourself in lovely nightwear, then you can lounge on some elegant bedding. By decorating your sleeping area with boudoir pillow covers, you are sure to feel like a Victorian woman. You can even design the rest of your bedding with these covers at the center, draping your bed with pretty details.
Embroidered Details
From embroidered dinner table and cocktail napkins to the handkerchiefs on your bedside table, these embroidered details will take you back in time. Only one in five Americans are happy with their decor, but with sweet details like these, you are sure to love yours. Especially when hand-crafted, embroidered decor can put the finishing touch on a traditional room.
Pleasant Scents
Jane Austen ladies surrounded themselves with rose and lavender, so find ways to include these scents in your room. You might even want to cut some fresh flowers to place next to your bed. These smells will lull you to sleep each night.
Floral Elements
Speaking of flowers, try to include these small details into the overall decor, as floral patterns were a staple of Victorian homes. Whether you go all out with traditional wallpaper or add smaller details such as candles, you are free to be creative.
While we are certainly far from the Victorian society represented by Jane Austen, we can borrow elements of this literary life. From your clothing to bedroom decor, every detail counts when you want to snooze like the heroines of this day.
New Mom In Your Life? How To Craft A Gift Basket
When one of your friends or family members becomes a mother for the first time, they can likely use all the help they can get. While this help can come in the form of babysitting or a meal, a simple gift basket can also be the gentle boost this mom needs. From white cotton nighties to decorations for the baby’s room, the contents of this basket can bring simple joys to the mother’s life, providing both convenience and comfort. This guide will help you craft the perfect basket for your friend or family member.
What makes the perfect gift basket for a new mom?
When it comes to gifting the best items to new moms, opt for useful items. They are likely receiving plenty of gifts, and you want yours to provide comfort, not clutter. Even if you have not yet had children, put yourself in their shoes and think about what you would want. You can also draw from your own experience or ask other moms about what they needed at this stage.
What should I put in the basket?
The following items are some simple ideas for the contents of the gift basket. Remember to curate the items based on your friend or family member’s personality, adding sweet personal touches.
- White Cotton Nighties: Few garments feel more comfortable and luxurious than white cotton pajamas. While white nighties might not seem like the most baby-centric piece of clothing, they will help the new mama relax in the evenings and get fulfilling sleep when she can.
- Boudoir Pillow: These pillows with boudoir pillow cases can help a new mama decorate the nursery. Whether she places it in the rocking chair or uses it while nursing, this small detail can make all the difference.
- Essential Oils: About three-quarters of people say they get more comfortable night’s sleep on sheets with a fresh scent. New mamas will love an essential oil spritz bottle.
- Slippers: Paired with new pajamas, these slippers can be the finishing touch on a perfectly cozy ensemble. They can also help them stay on their feet while bustling around the house.
By giving a sweet, thoughtful gift basket to a new mother, you can give them some simple tools to help them feel more relaxed. And when they are relaxed, they are bound to feel more like themselves. The above items, plus others, can help your friend feel more cared for overall.
Cozy New Year's Resolutions For Better Sleep
Tossing and turning through the night? While seven to nine hours of sleep is the general recommendation, it can be difficult to get this much shuteye. And when you wake feeling unrested, you likely drag through your day. Well, 2018 is your year to make a change. By committing to getting more sleep, you can make small changes that will make a big difference. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Upgrade your pajamas
Your stuffy old pajamas may make you more uncomfortable than you realize. Upgrade to a white nightshirt or a Victorian style nightgown in a cotton fabric. This will help your skin breathe more comfortably and will make you feel more luxurious as you unwind.
Spray some lavender
Fill a spray bottle with lavender essential oil and spritz it onto your pillow each night. Just the scent of this flower has been found to calm tension and ease you into sleep.
Make your room more comfortable
Do your cluttered room and outdated decor make you anxious? Add some boudoir pillow cases, linen tissue box covers, and other delicate decor to make you more comfortable in this space. You will then be more inclined to feel restful.
Stick to a nighttime routine
Find a nighttime routine that works for you and commit to it. This may include reading, light stretching, a bubble bath, or any other technique to get you relaxed. Set a time each night to start winding down. After a bit, it will become a habit.
Ask your partner to take these steps with you
Committing to better sleep can be difficult when you and your partner are on completely different sleep schedules. Talk to your partner about syncing up so you can both get into bed at around the same time. This will also help keep you both accountable to your routine.
By making an effort to get better sleep, you can also become a better version of yourself. When you feel rested, you will walk through your day more awake, cheerful, and ready for anything that comes your way. From a white nightshirt to a bottle of lavender oil, you may need to try various techniques until you find a combination that works for you. Then you can finally crawl into bed and look forward to true rest.