Decorating Diaries Shopping Guide

You know that friend you have that just feels like home? That is Kayla for me. She and I first became friends in 8th grade, a bond forged on AIM over a mutual obsession for all things Juicy Couture (only millennials will understand both of these references). Little did our 13-year-old selves know that our friendship would endure 20 years later, but I am so grateful it did. She is one of the most caring, fun, and supportive people that I know - and not to mention wildly talented in so many ways!

For any of you Minneapolis design-enthusiasts, you probably know Kayla as her IG handle - Decorating Diaries. Though she originally built a career as a hairstylist, she retired in 2021 in order to pursue her passion for interior design, and has been living her dreams ever since. She and her partner, Rashad, are the brilliant and hard-working duo behind Kennedy Property Development, restoring and renovating homes across the Twin Cities. If you love home design, you absolutely need to follow her on Instagram to see the before & afters. Satisfying doesn't even begin to cover it.

With our mutual love for all things home, it was a no-brainer that I needed to invite Kayla in for a collaborative shopping guide. She had been in before, but it was fun to have her back to see what items called to her in our current collection. I was both surprised and unsurprised by her picks: on the one hand she said she was feeling called to fall vibes (unexpected in July), but then of course I knew her mix would be gorgeously cohesive. What can I say? This gal has a keen eye!

Without further ado....

Decorating Diaries Shopping Guide for Story & Teller

Kayla's Picks

Cheroute No. 4 Candle - "This candle is giving me cozy fall vibes, which is calling to me for some reason. I know it is summer, but this is a mood."
Pacaya Chain Object - "I'd add this to any spot that needs a decorative detail. It's so versatile you could layer it on a stack of books or have it stand on its own. I also love that the Maker has a philanthropic element to their business with their donation program to The Jungle School."
Brisbane Throw in Olive - "This throw blanket is SO soft, and anything with muslin texture is my favorite. The olive green feels so fitting for all seasons, but especially fall."
Stowe Ceramic Tray in Checkered - "I couldn't help but get this for my house. The checkered design and wavy shape are just too good. It's the perfect little trinket tray."
Nichols Mug in Emerald Splatter - "The little double-handle is the cutest, plus the emerald and cream colors are dreamy together and also reminding me of fall."
Ayde Decorative Vase - "The texture on this one is amazing. I know it is a vase, but I could also see myself using it on a kitchen counter in place of a crock for displaying cooking utensils."
Meena Fluted Tumblers - "Anything reeded glass is my everything! Plus I'm a sucker for good glassware."
Antalya Hand Towels - "The waffle design immediately got me and I love the tassel fringe. These would be such a pretty add to any bathroom."
Proper Syrup - "I love coffee, so this is right up my alley. I appreciate that it not only has natural ingredients, but is cute enough for my counter too."