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An Office Makeover with Article

August 7, 2019
article furniture, burrard chair, sede dining chairs, marble table, beau mirror, small office decor ideas

Styling a small shared office space in partnership with Article.

Does anyone else browse the Article site religiously? I have this “problem” where I am constantly redecorating in my head. These design daydreams even extend other people’s houses when I’ve exhausted thinking about my own spaces. So, yeah, basically I’m constantly bookmarking furniture and home decor pieces for these hypothetical (and sometimes real) design plans. It’s a slight obsession. I’ve always been a huge fan of Article, as I love well-made neutral pieces and their pricing is quite reasonable. Trust me, I do a lot of research and price comparison LOL.

The shared studio/office space I’m a part of in Gastown is gorgeous. With two large windows and crisp white walls, the square footage might be small but is filled with natural light and vintage charm and I don’t know what I’d do without it. Recently, there was a bit of a shuffle and the lovely ladies at Gloss Boudoir took over the lease and set up a desk as their office apart from their photoshoot studio. This also meant that the old set-up was gone and Alex and I were able to move our existing Article furniture into the common area of the small studio so that everyone could enjoy our lounge chair and table. Admittedly, we’d let our corner get slightly over cluttered and this shift was the excuse we needed to organize and makeover our area.

Since Alex and I have partnered with Article in the past, we turned to them when it was time to add a few more items to bring the studio back to life. We stuck with light and neutral hues, aside from the walnut framed mirror, which helps anchor the palette. It was essential that all of the pieces are able to mix and matched as well as movable, as it is a common meeting area, as well as a photo studio. Everything came together so beautifully, I’m really excited to finally be sharing it with you! I’ve also outlined which items are new and if you have any questions about the Article pieces, definitely let me know in the comments below!

article furniture, burrard chair, sede dining chairs, marble table, beau mirror, small office decor ideas

We needed something decorative and multi-purpose as a side table and potential extra seating. Article’s Bamba 16″ Pouf was a perfect choice! I adore the musted pattern, it goes well with the other natural woven fabrics and the grey tones in the surrounding chairs. We’re currently re-decorating our living room and home and if I’m being honest, I am leaning towards purchasing two of these.

article furniture, burrard chair, sede dining chairs, marble table, beau mirror, small office decor ideas
article furniture, burrard chair, sede dining chairs, marble table, beau mirror, small office decor ideas
article furniture, burrard chair, sede dining chairs, marble table, beau mirror, small office decor ideas

The Beau Mirror is everything. It’s built to lean on the wall and has the most stunning but subtle leather and brass detailing to compliment the clean walnut lines. We’re beyond obsessed, it’s such a standout feature in the studio now. I predict a lot of mirror outfit photos in my future!

article furniture, burrard chair, sede dining chairs, marble table, beau mirror, small office decor ideas

Last, but not least, we needed some comfortable but structured chairs to go with our marble Mara Oak Cafe Table. I am the first to admit that the previous two chairs I’d purchased from elsewhere (definitely not pictured) were a terrible, terrible choice. One of the chairs never even worked properly and it was a gamble to even attempt to sit in it. You get what you pay for, I guess! Anyway, it was Article to the rescue with a pair of Sede Thunder Gray Oak Dining Chairs. Cannot recommend them enough! So comfortable to work at but would also make really great proper dining chairs in a home.

article furniture, burrard chair, sede dining chairs, marble table, beau mirror, small office decor ideas

There are still a few items we want to add, like a bit of greenery and personal photos (why are those always the last things I get around to adding to a room?!) but otherwise, I am thrilled with how the office is looking. It’s like we can breathe again in our studio/office and I can’t help but smile every time I open the door to our new Article-heavy setup.

ARTICLE PIECES FEATURED (gifted):

Beau Mirror

Burrard Chair in Seasalt Gray

Sede Thunder Gray Oak Dining Chairs

Mara Oak Marble Cafe Table

Bamba 16″ Pouf

Featured Studio

5 FREE Online Resources That Just Might Make Your Life Easier

January 9, 2019

A random collection of apps, sites, and plug-ins that have improved my workflow/skills. Great for students, creative entrepreneurs, freelancers, and anyone who works on a computer, so basically everyone.

It’s a one-woman show over here at my “home office” aka a new-ish IKEA Knotten standing desk that I’ve given a makeshift spot in the living room.  It doesn’t particularly match with the decor, but I justified the purchase because I insisted that a standing desk was precisely what I needed to boost my motivation and improve my posture.  Maybe it will, likely, it won’t, but so far I have used it a reasonable amount and the rest of the structure has become a perfect catchall desk area in our home.  This actually isn’t supposed to be a post about a standing desk though, so I digress.

All that to say that my best friend started her own business recently (and she’s killing, it. Hi, Jess, love you!!!) and I found myself sending her a few free resources that have actually saved me on a number of occasions and thought, “Hey! I should share these.” Maybe it’s my old hoarding ways, but I am a wealth of information that I’ve selfishly been keeping to myself. It’s time, my friends, to pass on such wisdom to the masses.

You might already know and use these apps/plugins/resources. If so, high five and please let me know if there’s anything else that I should be using because help me? But, if you don’t know about these, prepare to make your work life a little bit easier! This is definitely not sponsored (HA! It’s January, the slowest month in terms of partnerships, so get ready for a few months of only the weirdness that spews from my mind) but let me know if you download/use any of these and what you think!

Grammarly

Let’s start with a bang! Grammarly is a free writing assistant app that edits as you type. I didn’t realize how much I needed this in my life and honestly, how terrible I really was at catching errors. Grammarly absolutely saves my ass from seeming like an unprofessional, possibly day drunk businesswoman when sending out and replying to emails. The amount of silly little typos that would have otherwise gone missed, ugh, I cringe just thinking about it. Grammarly is also hard at work as I type this blog post. It has simplified my blog editing process, catching those basic grammatical errors and spelling mistakes.

Canva

I used to waste so much time trying to make decent looking graphics in Photoshop and though those were valuable skills to learn, I knew there had to be a better way. Canva is basically like having a graphic designer on your team. I have never been so quick at creating social media graphics and boring old documents are now aesthetically pleasing. It’s really easy to use and there are so many amazing free templates to choose from!

Airtable

So far, I used Airtable purely for the colour coordinated, simple to navigate spreadsheets. If you do client work though, Airtable is definitely worth taking a look at, as it can also be a great way to keep your work organized for you and your team members. I only downloaded this one a few months ago, but I really like it so far.

Pinterest

This might seem ridiculous, but hear me out. If you’re just using Pinterest for recipe ideas, then you are seriously missing out.  Pinterest is my favourite search engine tool.  When I’m looking for anything business, travel, or blog related, the Pinterest search engine takes me to all sorts of blog posts and information I would have never found otherwise. I also hear it’s a killer way to drive traffic to your own website. Shameless plug, you should totally follow me on Pinterest if you haven’t already!

Yoast SEO

I know so little about SEO, it’s honestly a miracle that you’re reading this right now. How on earth did you even find me? This one is pretty blog specific, but if you also use WordPress, the Yoast SEO Plug-In is a must-have. It’s like SEO for dummies! I’ve already learned a ton about Search Engine Optimization and how I wasn’t really using it properly, or at all. So, if you’re using WordPress, it’s something you should definitely look into!

Photo by the lovely Lesa Astifo

Life Studio

The Studio 504

September 16, 2016

article furniture review, how to decorate a shared office, modern and bright office decor, mid century modern office

When I initially left my nine to five, I set up shop in our home because that made the most sense financially.  Which, was a wonderful option for a few years.  I would get dressed and ready for the day first thing every morning, I’d never turn on the tv or let myself get too distracted.  And then, inevitable, that all went out the window.  The walls began closing in a little and small household chores seemingly haunted me all day long.  I remember sitting in my sweats at 11 AM, looking up at the deep, deep, Netflix hole I was in (I think I was on the second day of an Orange Is The New Black binge) and thinking “Oh my goodness, I need to find an office space…NOW!”

It was fate that one day, a friend posted her old shared studio to help them find a couple new people to fill the space.  Being that the only other person there was a photographer, I KNEW this would be the perfect office/studio!  We hit it off right away and I moved on in, which was really great.  Then, when I decided to try full time blogging back in January, Bethany was kind enough to help me out with unknown finances and we were able to work out a deal that Alex shared my portion of the space!

Having Alexandra in the studio with us has been so wonderful for the quality of work I complete when I’m there.  We shoot for each other and are able to have brand strategy meetings together.  The trouble was, that we never seemed to sit at the desk anymore and it kind of ended up a dumping ground for shipments and random photo shoot crap.  We knew that something had to be done, especially since it was a shared room!

I was on a home decor mission and could only function in life by redecorating every single space I’d step into.  I was browsing Article one day and we came up with the crazy idea to fix up our area and ditch the conventional desk concept.  The vision was a cozier chair and a chic table/chair set up instead what would inspire us creatively and double as a great shooting space for photo and video!

Read More

Life Studio

From Hobby to Career: My Blogging Story

April 14, 2016

alicia fashionista, how to make money blogging, how to blog full time, how to start a blog

Photo by Shari and Mike

I realize that a lot of people don’t know/understand what I do for work.  And really, I can’t blame them.  Up until January of this year, I had 4 jobs (which, is actually an understatement, but more on that later). Now, with some much needed focus and drive, I can say with confidence that I am a full time blogger.  And I’m pretty sure people STILL don’t know/understand what I do for work – but, that’s okay.  Over the next little while, I want to explain, share my story with you and hopefully inspire some of you to finally start your own blogging journey.

What has sparked all of this?  Well, it just so happens that I started aliciafashionista.com EIGHT years ago today!  Can you even believe that?!  I’ve taken what was initially a creative outlet/way to pass the time and built a personal brand that is actually making me enough money to live on.  Holy smokes, this is actually real life!

Read More

Studio

Shop Talk // Digital Darlings

November 5, 2014

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Sure, yeah, I could scrape by in Photoshop.  I knew the basics from my previous job, where I used my few self taught tricks.  It was a good way to learn though because I had to use it so often, it kept my PS knowledge fresh.  I thought I was going to be an Adobe expert when my college fashion program required me to take a Photoshop class.  Then in class, we were left with lazy tutorials and text book quizzes.  Because nothing tests your Photoshop knowledge like a handwritten quiz.  We were then given an entire month to work on one collage.  The rainbow clip art graphics were my tipping point – I quickly dropped the class.

I’ve always wanted to expand my Photoshop knowledge.  Blogging and owning a business both require it on a daily basis.  It turns out, that all I needed was an amazing teacher like Bria Lear.  Her Digital Darlings program is catered exactly to my needs (pretty graphics really can make all the difference).  Bria’s two day crash course included tips and tricks on layout, photo editing, and even how to make a photo gif.  I found it worth it for her Mac shortcuts alone!  I really loved the take away booklet too, I’ve kept it at my desk for reference ever since.  It was even a great networking opportunity, I met some awesome local freelancers/small business owners.  All I can say to you, is sign up NOW!

The next Digital Darlings PS Bootcamp is November 15-16 and there’s only TWO spots left!  Do not wait another second to sign up, I promise you will not regret it!  You can go ahead and register HERE.  If you can’t make it next weekend, Bria also offers private or group tutorials.  They can be completely customized to your needs, so it’s also a really great option!  And if you have any more questions about my Digital Darlings experience, be sure to ask in the comment section below xo

Beauty Studio Style

Glitter Guide: A Valentine’s Day Tea Party

February 11, 2014

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A beautiful day at Cecil Green with Coco and Vera and To Vogue Or Bust.  Photographed by the amazing Ainsley Rose, this is our take on a Valentine’s Day Tea Party for Three, as seen on The Glitter Guide yesterday.

Event Planning: BASH + FETE
Cakes and cookies: Cake by Annie
Venue: Cecil Green

Vintage Rentals: Spruce Collective 
Linen and select decor: Art of Party
Hair and makeup: Kahlia Adams
Jewelry: Olive + Piper

Prints: I See Noise
Knitwear: Joe Fresh + Left on Houston

Studio

Shop Talk: 4 Business Apps To Love

January 8, 2014

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The amount of time I spend with that magical iPhone glow on my face is probably astonishing.  If only it also emitted UV rays, then we’d really be set!  Having to balance my freelance work between the iPhone, iPad, and laptop can prove to be a challenge, which is why I’m always searching for the best organizational apps out there.  Especially when said apps can simplify tasks, because let’s face it – we’re a lazy bunch!  Alas, here are some of the business related apps that I use for Capital Q Creative on the daily.
1. Weekly Calendar $1.99
A notification for an iOS update causes us all so much anxiety.  These feelings of dread are only justified when, say, the iOS 7.0.4 version includes a calendar “makeover”.  I mean, I love polka dots and all, but I just can’t visualize my days knowing I have something booked on that day, indicated by only a grey dot.  That being said, there’s hope.  A friend of mine kindly gave me the heads up about Weekly Cal.  It’s visually appealing for those of us who’d rather stay organized in a written agenda book anyway.  I love its use of colour coding and that it simply syncs my iPhone calendar plans.  You should probably give it a try!
2. Right Inbox FREE
I came up with this really cool idea the other day.  It was too have an app for email where you could program when you’d like to send messages to people.  This would especially come in handy when I decide to start tackling emails at midnight.  Turns out, as most things do, that this already exists!  Right Inbox was an app that I downloaded onto my PC, not sure if they’re compatible with smartphones yet, but I am loooving it so far!
3. Pulse FREE
I’m always searching the internet for great articles to post to social.  Pulse makes things easy, by letting you sort news sources into categories and add your own favourite sites.  I always feel far more productive scrolling Pulse than I do any other app!
4. Fresh Books FREE-ish
I’m so bad with invoicing.  I don’t even know why, it’s just this tedious task that haunts me at the end of every month and completed project.   You’d think I never want to get paid!  In an attempt to get over this fear of invoicing, I’m giving Fresh Books a try.  They do what they can to make invoicing as quick and painless as possible, and for that, I applaud them.
Do you have any favourite business/organization apps?
Home Studio

The Best Party Ever

October 28, 2013

Best Day Ever Shoot
Best Day Ever Shoot

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Best Day Ever Shoot

Best Day Ever Shoot

Decor & Styling, Best Day Ever
Photography, Christie Graham
This magazine-worthy table decor is brought to you by the talented ladies of Best Day Ever.  Dene and Chelsey imagined fall decor on a whole new level.  I was absolutely floored to see traditional fall hues replaced with pretty pinks, hints of gold, and bright white accents.  They exceeded my expectations, I was so impressed with their attention to detail.
Can we also talk about Christie Graham’s killer photography?  I’ve been a huge fan of hers since she shot my friend’s wedding a few years ago and am so glad we got to work together on this.  Loved her direction and ease behind the camera, this certainly won’t be the last time we collaborate.
With an upcoming wedding of my own, I’m thinking this dream team might be the perfect day-of combination – wouldn’t you agree?  If you had the same thought, I have a particularly exciting giveaway coming up tomorrow featuring Best Day Ever.  If you’re a bride to be (or know one) then stay tuned!
Alicia’s Wearing: Blouse and Skirt, Joe Fresh // Shoes, GUESS // Necklace and Link Bracelet, J.Crew // Studded Wrap Bracelet, Jeweliette Jewellery


Like what you see?  You could WIN Best Day Ever’s Day-Of/Month-Of Wedding Coordination Package!  Get all the details here.
Studio

{hire me} capital Q creative

September 20, 2012

Time for a SOCIAL MEDIA ResQ!

Are you wondering how to market your business or blog online?
Do you want to drive more traffic to your site and effectively utilize social media?

Whether you need a crash course in tweeting or simply a {lovely} brainstorming partner,
we’ve got the experience, ideas, and proper tools to help!
Capital Q Creative specializes in social media training, ongoing community management, blogging, and campaigns/events.
For more info, be sure to browse the brand NEW Capital Q Creative Website 
{made by the mighty talented Kait Jones}
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Just for fun, I set off with SC Imagery to make a mini video to celebrate the launch of the website.  We spent the day at Granville Island Market buying goodies and then headed back to my patio summer home office to get some work done.  My favourite moment of the film is when a fan of my blog spotted me and asked for a photo together.  Having a video camera follow me around and a fan approach me?  Pretty sure I felt like a mini celebrity for a moment in time!

If you have any questions, please email me aliciafashionista@gmail.com with “Capital Q” in the subject line.