Halloween is around the corner! Which means one of the best parts of the year is finally here – pumpkin decorating time! How will you decorate yours? Utilizing traditional pumpkin carving methods can be messy and dangerous if you’re inexperienced or working with kids. There are so many alternative, modern ways to decorate pumpkins from paint, to tacks and crayons. Did we mention that pumpkins last longer when not carved? Try out one of the following for a fresh take on fall décor this Halloween!
Paint: When it comes to painting your pumpkin, the sky’s the limit! From stripes to skulls, transform your pumpkin just the way you like. Take a look at some of theseideas for a little inspiration. Whatever you decide, avoid using spray paint because it contains gasses that can cause the pumpkin to explode.
(Photos courtesy of www.lollyjane.com)
Fishnets: This is one of the most effortless methods that give your pumpkin an edge. Simply place your choice of stockings over the pumpkin and cut off the excess fabric. Finish it off by tying a bow or rubber band to secure the stocking around the stem and voila!
(Photo courtesy of www.homesessive.com)
Tacks: Create an array of designs, initials or pattern by inserting thumbtacks into your pumpkin. Spray paint the tacks or utilize different colored tacks for additional effect.
(Photo courtesy of www.lilyshop.com)
Rhinestones: Whether you add rhinestones to an already painted or plain pumpkin, this can give it the added shine it needs.
(Photo courtesy of www.bhg.com)
Crayons: This unique method will set your pumpkin apart from your Mark-Taylor neighbor’s pumpkin. Utilize a hair dryer or lighter to melt crayons onto your pumpkin. Use thesestep-by-step pictures for additional guidance.
(Photo courtesy of www.jennymayandswede.blogspot.com)
Whether you’re looking for a unique gift to give or curious about trying new products, monthly subscription boxes are the way to go. The boxes contain a grab bag of items that will ship straight to your Mark-Taylorluxury apartment, much like a magazine subscription. Surrounding different themes, these boxes are available for anything imaginable including; beauty products, fashion, coffee and food, toys for kids, pets, hobbies and more! We’ve come across some of our favorites that we think are worth looking into.
Turntable Kitchen: This site aims to introduce food lovers to music and vice versa. The fun concept allows you to discover rising artists, enjoy an original menu with unique ingredients, and wow your friends with a playlist of the best new music each month. You’ll receive a limited edition, seven-inch vinyl digital record, premium dried ingredients, original recipe cards, and occasional bonus treats in a Pairings Box, all for $25/month.
Photo courtesy of www.turntablekitchen.com
Dollar Shave Club:For guys that love a great shave, this is an excellent subscription for personal use or to give as a gift. This club features $1 monthly razor deals. One dollar a month, excluding shipping, will get you five cartridges and a free handle, however, you have the option of upgrading to four-blade or six-blade razor cartridges every month as well. No more over-paying for fancy brand name razors or forgetting to buy your blades.
Photo courtesy of www.dollarshaveclub.com
Craft Coffee: If you’re a coffee connoisseur, this will be your jam. A monthly subscription to Craft Coffee will get you three bags of coffee from the ultimate artisan roaster, custom tasting notes on each variety, details about the coffee’s origin, and brewing tips to make the quintessential cup every single month.
Photo courtesy of www.craftcoffee.com
Bark Box: Spoil your precious pup with a monthly box filled with new doggy treats, toys or select items for around $17 per month. You can tailor your order for small, medium and large dogs. Your dog can thank us later!
Photo courtesy of www.barkbox.com
Kiwi Crate: Make Christmas come once a month for your kids for around $20/month. The concept was built out of a passion for hands-on fun that encourages creativity and curiosity in children. Receive a monthly box filled with the materials and inspiration for 2-3 activities - art, science, games, imaginative play, and more. A new theme - like gardening, dinosaurs, space, etc. is introduced every month. Each crate is devised by a team of imaginative parents and endorsed by an advisory board of education professionals and child psychologists
Photo courtesy of www.kiwicrate.com
Want to see what else is available as monthly subscription boxes? Check out Hello Foxy’s expansive list.
Whether you’re making the transition from a college dorm room, just starting out on your own, or ready for a decorating re-do, there are a few things that you should leave behind in order to make the switch to an adult ambiance. It’s time to pass off posters for framed art and futons for a bed frame and mattress. We have a few simple ideas on how to transform your place from teen to très chic.
If you’re using a futon as a stand in for a bed frame with a mattress, it’s time to invest in a real bed. However, you may utilize a futon in other areas of your apartment. Accessorize your futon by adding fun pillows in different sizes and prints. 
Plastic racks and storage bins are ideal for a dorm but you should consider upgrading once you move into your new apartment. Ditch the plastic and swap it out for some solid storage furniture. IKEA is one of the best places to get a bang for your buck. If you’re trying to stray away from a cookie cutter look, there are tons of DIY’s and ideas utilizing IKEA furniture: http://www.ikeahackers.net is a great place to get inspiration on how to transform your furniture from traditional to personal. 
We understand that in the past you may have taped things on your walls (we’ve all done it). It’s time to start putting frames to use and actually hanging your décor on the walls. Still have that poster of your favorite band on your wall? That’s fine; just enhance it with a frame.
If you’re having a party, Solo Cups are great for an easy clean up, not for day-to-day use. Save the plastic ware that you consistently use for large gatherings, and opt for daily glassware instead. You have a dishwasher in your Mark-Taylor apartment that can be put to use after all. 
Trade your collection of spring break shot glasses for a more dignified bar cart. Your guests will be impressed by your selection of drink choices and it won’t be an eye sore.
Photo courtesy of www.gingersnapjordan.blogspot.com