September has long been one of my favorite months. In Connecticut, it meant crisp, cool evenings and sunny, warm (not hot!) days, plus outdoor soccer matches and going back to school. I’ve only had one September down here, but last year it was delightful, with hot but not humid days, blue skies, and the chance to get outside and actually do something, unlike July and August where you feel like you’ll wilt if you leave the air conditioning.

I put together a board for how I hope September will feel… refreshing, warm, crisp, clean. I’m looking forward to a few more trips to Eno, a few trips to the farmer’s market and flea market, more reading than I’ve had the chance to do this summer, and some more interior decoration progression. What about you — what you you looking forward to this month?

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Clockwise from top left: via Simply Seleta, via Once Wed, from Blue Bell Bazaar, by Braedon Flynn via Snippet & Ink, from Martha Stewart Weddings, by Heather Waraksa via Style Me Pretty, by EmersonMade, via It’s Mary Ruffle

There will be much more to come from Kate + Cormac’s wedding, but I thought I’d pop in with this simple DIY before the pro pics arrive! As one of our projects, K and I put together tons of beribboned drink stirrers for the reception. They were easy to make and a big hit with guests.

I’ve heard from lots of brides that made something similar and were disappointed when they had piles left over at the end of the night because they sat unused on the bar. My tip? Ask your bartender to stick one in each drink before handing them over.

For this project, you will need wooden skewers, ribbon (I like using 5/8″), and a sharp pair of scissors.

Begin by cutting your skewers in half. J was my right hand man for this step, so I’ll have to double check with him as to the method he settled on, but I believed he used the mini saw from a utility tool.

Next, cut a length of ribbon (approximately 8 to 9 inches should do). Fold the ribbon in half, then fold it in half around the skewer.

Pull the tails through the loop you’ve created…

…then cinch the knot tight. If you’d like, notch the ends for an extra-polished look.

Of course, if you’d prefer I do the heavy lifting for you, I have a few for sale in my Etsy shop. Colors are completely customizable!

I like the idea of having a bold shower curtain in our main bathroom, since the walls and surfaces are neutral and likely won’t be changing anytime soon.

This option from Walmart is a steal at $16, but I’m thinking it might be a bit too metallic for my tastes.

I also really like this one from VivaTerra, though it’s more steeply priced at $65.

Both of these fit with Friday’s decor. However, I’m also drawn to the little number below, which is just so bright and cheery! I’m not sure how it would look next to our tan walls, although on closer examination, it looks like there might be some taupe in the design?

Perhaps I’ll have to order all three and then decide…

It’s easy, it’s breezy, it’s beachy and nautical without being too obvious, it’s casual, it’s elegant. And I love it. Especially that blue velvet couch. And that tumbleweed.

I’m thinking this might be my new decorating direction. But, you know how that goes… we’ll see if this one sticks!

All images c/o Real Simple