A Front Porch Reading List

Aw summer!

I’ve promised myself a little downtime this summer. It’s not easy for me to just “chill” anymore. We have been so busy! BUT, on my summer “bucket” list is to spend time reading. I am amazed at how many beautiful books I have that I have not had a chance to get through. So, in an effort to actually read some of these fab books I have actually scheduled in reading time. On the porch of course. :)

I’ve decided to read though some of the beautiful design and decor books I already have. I bought them all over the last couple of years and have been looking at the beautiful books just sitting there. Time to get reading!

Here are the books that I can’t wait to get back into. I started my collection from suggestions from good friends, customers and other creative bloggers, I hope you find these suggestions helpful. To help, I have included an a direct link to most of the books (affiliate links) but many of these books are available locally at bookstores as well, and sometimes perusing bookstores can be half the fun right? I ordered all of mine online though.

In no particular order, here is my Front Porch reading list:

#1 Nesting Place by Myquillan Smith

Are you familiar with The Nester’s Blog? Oh my, she is just the best. I’ve read most of this book already. Honestly, I love her approach to decorating for REAL people with REAL lives. Kids, mess, budgets. Know what I mean? I just LOVE this woman, her blog and her book. You can check out her blog here. Her philosophy “It doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful” Can I hear an amen? Nothing perfect in my life or home. You can check out the book here on Amazon. Nesting Place: It Doesn’t Have To Be Perfect To Be Beautiful (isn’t that a great title?)

#2 Young House Love

Do you know Sherry and John from Young House Love blog? They are just the sweetest and smartest. Their book Young House Love: 243 Ways to Paint, Craft, Update & Show Your Home Some Love has come highly recommended and I have thumbed through and can’t wait to get into it. It’s more of a project based DIY book. Love that.

#3 The Handbuilt Home by Ana White

I love Ana and her amazing blog. I have had the honour of meeting her, seeing her speak, and actually was able to have a casual evening with her and her hubby one evening. (surreal) I have made a few items from her book, but as we move into Fall I am hoping to get a few more project ideas. This book is filled with great (easy) and affordable DIY projects.

#4 Living Life Beautifully by Christina Strutt

This book is pure eye candy. For real. Page after page of beautiful simple inspiration. I ordered this one last Fall and was giddy and may have squealed a little when it arrived. True story. You can order your copy here Living Life Beautifully You will thank me later.

#5 Inspired You by Marian Parsons

Of course I have read my friend Marian’s (aka Miss Mustard Seed) book cover to cover (a couple of times) if you haven’t you totally should. I will read it again this summer. I lugged my dog eared copy to Atlanta to get Marian to sign it a couple of years ago, and was almost too chicken to ask her (But I did). I find it very inspiring. We carry it at Front Porch Mercantile, but its also available online here Inspired You: Breathing New Life into Your Heart and Home. I

#6 Design Bloggers at Home by Ellie Tennant

Ok, confession. I didn’t think this would be that awesome. But, it turns out its pretty fab and inspirational. This book was recommended over and over by friends, so I thought I’d order. I love the photography and stories that I have read so far and I’m looking forward to reading it on vacation. You can find it here Design Bloggers at Home: Fresh Interiors Inspiration From Leading Online Trend Setters

So there’s my list. I’m hoping to add to my library. I have a few more but thought I’d share my fav’s so far. Do you have any recommendations?

I’m currently on vacation and have all these books with me at the cottage. I’m enjoying all the inspiration!

Hope you find these books inspirational too!

Let me know if you’ve read any of these and what you think of them!

Cheers,