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For him they're NBD, so don't stress. There's a scientific reason why husbands and wives often feel like they're having completely different conversations. It's called the closeness communication bias, a theory that suggests the tighter you are with someone, the more you assume you know what they're saying.For instance, if you checked with a friend about whether she planned to go to the gym, you'd probably add that you asked because you were wondering if she wanted to hit the same yoga class or get a post-workout smoothie. But couples often leave out the explanation, which can lead to misunderstandings. If one of his questions irks you, simply ask why he asked before a potentially innocent conversation spirals into an argument, suggests licensed clinical social worker Marcia Naomi Berger. A lot of happy, sexually satisfied husbands watch porn. Statistics suggest 70 percent of men between ages 18 and 34 have visited a porn site in the past month. And for that matter, so do plenty of wives. Acknowledge this, and try watching a clip together, suggests Emily Morse, a sex and relationship expert and founder of the podcast Sex With Emily. That way, the behavior isn't a secret, and you'll quickly see how silly and over-the-top some scenes can be.It may even help facilitate a conversation about turn-ons, turn-offs, and how you and he can make your relationship even better. And remember: Just like you and Ryan Gosling are never really going to settle down in a lakeside cabin together and watch The Notebook every evening before you engage in sweet sex, porn is in no way replacing you or an image of who your husband wishes you were. Turns out, if he's casually dropping her name in conversation, it's a pretty good sign they're just friends, says Seth Meyers, author of "Dr. Seth's Love Prescription." "If he was truly into her, he might try to change the subject or say something negative about her just to throw you off track."So, if he claims this woman is awesome, take it at face value and mention that you'd love to meet her sometime. Not only does this give you a chance to meet someone cool, but seeing her and your husband's friendly coworker banter will likely stop your paranoia in its tracks. "He's probably not trying to hurt your feelings," says dating and relationship coach Marni Battista. And mixed signals from you can be understandably confusing. Be careful of using a jokey comment as an excuse to pull the trigger on a brewing argument, instead letting him know immediately when and why something bothers you. For example, maybe you hate when he calls something you do "silly," because that was the word your dad used to deride you when you were a kid.Explaining your reasoning makes it clear that you're not just being emotional, and will make him remember your request in the future, Battista adds. Both of you come with pasts but they're over and done. In general, threesomes are fantasies some people choose to try once (even "Orange Is the New Black" star Jason Biggs admits to having tried one with his wife!) but don't want to turn into a habit, says Morse. Telling you about his experience speaks to the high level of trust in your relationship not that he wants to try another round.And if he says it was awkward, uncomfortable, and that the highlight of the night was when the three of them put their clothes back on and ordered pizza, trust him. We're primed to think men want sex all the time, but that's simply not always the case, says Morse. If you've ever turned down your husband's advances because you had cramps, had been touched all day by your toddler and were simply donewith skin-on-skin contact, or just wanted to chill out and watch "Dexter" without interruption, you know it's nothing personal. He likely feels the same way, especially if it happens once in a blue moon.That said, making sure you're both happy with the amount of sex you regularly have is essential, so if either of you are often too tired to do the deed, it may be time to get creative and, say, set the alarm an hour earlier so you can start the morning on a high note. For better or worse, strippers and bachelor parties go together like drunk uncles and weddings. And even if your husband was told this was a naked-lady-free affair, that's no guarantee. Instead of getting angry or making him feel as if he needs to lie, figure out what bothers you so much about him encountering strippers, says Morse. Do you feel like he's cheating? Does the profession seem icky?Once you've sorted out your thoughts, it'll be much easier to have an honest discussion about expectations, meaning there won't be any misunderstandings when he comes home. You're right to be a little concerned Internet infidelity is a rising trend. And expert opinions on how to deal with it are mixed. Some advise couples to share passwords for social media accounts, while others say that's excessive. But when it comes down to it, too much fixation on each other's online habits may mean it's time for both of you to reassess your tech time.For example, the real issue may not be that a blast from the past showed up in his newsfeed, but that you're spending hours in your individual worlds, which is cutting into your together time. Instead of demanding your husband unfriend his ex, plan a tech time-out during which you can focus on new ways to connect with each other. For a lot of us, food choices are deeply entwined with self-image and self-esteem. But many men don't have the same sordid relationship with double cheeseburgers, says Battista. That said, sneaking snacks can be a gateway to other duplicitous behavior, so if you and your husband arecommitted to getting healthier, set some guidelines you can both follow. Maybe it's making your cars a neutral zone, or having a few cheat groceries a week. That way, neither of you has to lie and you're both honestly working toward the goal. Texting should make communication easier, but it can lead to some serious misunderstandings. That's why it's key that both of you are clear on its role in your relationship. Knowing you'll check in with each other a few times a day and that no response likely means you're swamped can help avoid feeling text-neglect.Another option: Try a couple-based app like Avocado or Couple, which put all your texts in one place. Plus, on both apps, you can "thumb kiss" by causing a vibration when you both put your fingers on the same part of your screen a no-words reminder that even on the most crazy-busy day, you and he are still connected.

lifestyle

As your face changes, so should your hair the right cut can shave years from your appearance. And while there's no such thing as an age-appropriate length, there are age-appropriate styles. Here, the 30 most gorgeous hairstyles for every age, as seen on Mila Kunis, Jessica Biel, Jennifer Aniston, Diane Keaton, and more. The 5 best haircuts for women in their 20s: Softened pixie Your 20s may be a decade of experimentation and finding yourself. That, however, shouldn't apply to your hair. Here, a collection of cuts so flattering, you'll want to stick with them into your 40s.Miley CyrusSupershort hair, like this pixie, can still be long on style and individuality. "Michelle, Miley, Anne all short hair, but they're totally different women. This cut lets your personality really come through," says hairstylist Chris McMillan. To keep this look both young and versatile, he recommends keeping hair longer on top, with soft edges along the back and around the ears. Whether you're opting for clean precision or windblown ease, massaging in a light-weight styling cream, like Living Proof Amp2, will temper unruly curls andgive shape to finer strands. "You can camouflage a wide forehead with long bangs, but think about any features you'd rather deemphasize, because this cut keeps you pretty exposed." And though he admits pixies aren't for the faint of heart, or head, don't be too precious about the style, cautions McMillan. "You can change it up for any occasion," he says. "Making a deep side part and sweeping bangs across your forehead will look very lady, and finger-styling it a bit messy gives you a chic edge." The 5 best haircuts for women in their 20s: Razored bob Julianne HoughWe've said it before, but it bears repeating: The lob, or long bob, flatters everyone. (Yes, everyone.) It can be swept into an updo or messy ponytail, and looks perfectly tousled in the morning. For the most movement (and the least amount of maintenance), stylist Riawna Capri, who works with Julianne Hough, recommends a shoulder-grazing cut with gently razored ends. "It'll appear clean, but still have shape." With your fingers, concentrate a texturizing cream, like Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine, on the ends for some separation that's soft but not spiky. The 5 best haircuts for women in their 20s: Midlength layers with heavy, side-swept bangs Kate UptonNot all of us are spending weekends posing for swimsuit shoots like Kate Upton, but that doesn't mean we can't model her lush layers and long bangs. "This cut is all about perimeter and internal layers," says Peter Butler, the hairstylist behind it. How exactly does one create internal layers, you might wonder? Butler does this by leaving the top layer of hair long and ones underneath just a touch shorter. It's the key to movement, volume, and saving time, he says and the perfect cut for someone whose hair tends to fall flat. "The choppier pieces underneath help retain lift and shape," Butler says. Keep stands looking bouncy by massaging a volumizing mousse, like Leonor Greyl Mousse Au Lotus Volumatrice, into damp hair. While the wavy shape and framing bangs flatter most face shapes, ladies with heavy curls or unruly waves should play around with more length. "Keep the perimeter strong and layers longer," Butler suggests. "If you cut anything above the chin, your hair will pouf up." The 5 best haircuts for women in their 20s: Long and layered Jennifer LawrenceA head full of sexy, choppy layers adds tons of volume, says hairstylist Mark Townsend, who works with Jennifer Lawrence. "The key to keeping hair long is health," he says, recommending an eighth-inch trim every two months. No matter what your hair texture, ask for chest-length hair with light layering only at the bottom to preserve that beachy fullness especially if you have a natural waves like Lawrence. If your hair is thin, adding soft layers just under the jawline will create enough shape that you can still mimic Lawrence's volume. Finish the look by misting Sally Hershberger Genius Spray Wax over the head, focusing on the ends. ("Very Kate Moss in the 90s piecey, and no barrel curls allowed.") If hair starts to look a little limp, freshen up roots with Dove Dry Shampoo at night before bed and give your head a good shake in the morning. Katniss Everdeen approved. The 5 best haircuts for women in their 30s: Softened pixie A woman's 30s are a busy decade careers take off, dating gets serious, and families get started. Your haircut needs to keep up. We rounded up five styles so gorgeous, you'll be looking forward to your next birthday.Anne HathawayA short cut is perfect for women who are on the move, says hairstylist Bridget Brager. While this cut isn't exactly wash and go, your drying time will be seriously reduced. But not all pixies are created equal: Ask your stylist for layers that, in Brager's words, "melt they're barely noticeable, and keep the sides from looking choppy or poufy." All it takes to style is a bit of pomade (we love Göt2b Defiant Define + Shine Pomade) or, for those with heart-shaped faces, a spritz of volumizing spray, such as Alterna Bamboo Volume 48-Hour Sustainable Volume Spray, to give the roots a boost. The goal is for this to look effortless, so those with coarse, curly hair may want to avoid, as it will require lots of styling. "It's such a confident style," she says. "And at 30, that's how you should be." The 5 best haircuts for women in their 30s: Graduated bob Michelle DockeryDockery may play an Edwardian lady in Downton Abbey, but her haircut is far from stuffy or worse, soccer mom ish. "It's a beautiful way to do a bob," Brager says. "Shorter in back and slightly angled in front, it has so much volume and shows off her natural texture." A bonus? It's easy to style (and flatters just about every face shape and hair texture). Just blow-dry with a diffuser until it's about 60 percent dry, then let your natural texture take care of the rest. Curl a few face-framing pieces, and run a pomade, such as Wella Professionals Texture Touch Reworkable Clay, through the ends to make them look piecey. The 5 best haircuts for women in their 30s: Blung bob Olivia Munn"The common thread with all of these styles is that they look so effortless, but put together," Brager says. "A collarbone-length cut is one of the most versatile. You can wear it up or down without it getting in the way." For those with round or heart-shaped faces, ask your stylist for a version that's all one length with blunt ends. If your face is oval or square, request a few face-framing layers to give it dimension and accentuate your cheekbones. Those with thicker hair will also want to ask their stylist to thin it out, eliminating bulk (and any chance of helmet head). All this cut needs for that tousled finish is a little volumizing spray, such as Fekkai Advanced Full Blown Volume Lifting Hairspray, before blow-drying. Spritz from the roots to midshaft, Brager says. The 5 best haircuts for women in their 30s: Tousled layers Zoe Saldana"When you're younger, you want to make a statement," Brager says. "In your late teens and 20s, you try every trend and fry the crap out of your hair. For your 30s, you want your hair to do its own thing, not be overdone." And Saldana does just that with this wavy, medium-length cut. Because of its length, anyone can pull off this cut heart-shaped or square face, coarse or fine hair. Using your natural part, ask for layers that start at your chin. "They make waves look even more bouncy," she says. The 5 best haircuts for women in their 30s: Long layers with soft bangs Jessica BielNow, we're not saying you should try fringe as a way to cover up signs of aging. There's actually a much better reason to give bangs a try: "They frame your best features," Brager says. Those with round faces can pull off straight-across styles, while others should go for a lash-grazing version that angles down at the corners. Long, below-the-shoulder layers are a perfect complement; just blow-dry smooth with a round brush (a little bend at the ends adds softness) and dab an oil, like L'Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil, at the ends for major shine. "It looks so healthy and totally age appropriate," Brager says. The 6 most flattering haircuts for women in their 40s: Short Headline after headline declares 40 is the new 20, but we respectfully disagree. Women in their 40s are sexy, self-assured, and at the top of their game. Why go back? Whether you're looking for a dramatic change or just want to keep your hair long and lush, check out our favorite flattering cuts.Lisa RinnaRinna's short shag combines sex appeal with a hint of sportiness. The key, says hairstylist Kerrie Urban, is not to over-style. "Avoid using products like hard gels and mousses that make hair stiff, and instead opt for styling creams with light to medium hold," she says. If you're thinking of chopping off your hair, first consider your features. Urban warns, "If you've always hated your nose, you probably won't like the attention a short cut draws to it. On the other hand, it can accentuate high cheekbones," like Rinna's. Then, think about texture: If your hair is coarse and curly, it will be difficult to tame; if you have superfine hair, it could look limp. The 6 most flattering haircuts for women in their 40s: Layered bob Cate BlanchettThis classic style is the perfect choice for women who want to look chic without a lot of maintenance. "Almost any hair texture or face shape can carry a bob," says Urban, "though tight curls may need a bit more layering, and those with round faces should opt for longer versions. Chin-length bobs are ideal for petite and angular face shapes." If you want an edgier look, ask for shorter layers in the back and longer ones toward the front. The 6 most flattering haircuts for women in their 40s: Long bob with bangs Michelle ObamaObama was the talk of every media outlet in the country when she debuted her trendy bangs this year. "Fringe can definitely add an element of youth to any haircut," says Urban. "Her bouncy bob is the perfect example of hair that looks professional and fashionable at the same time." To achieve a soft look like the First Lady's, Urban recommends having your stylist slightly round your bangs to your face, rather than cutting them straight across. For piecey definition, try a styling paste like Pureology Texture Twist on damp hair. The 6 most flattering haircuts for women in their 40s: Shoulder-length Jennifer Garner"The classic shoulder-length cut is always in style," says Urban. "It's easy to maintain, and the styling options are endless." A medium cut lets you transform from ponytail during the day to beautiful curls at night. And while Garner's cut may look one length, there are subtle, long layers throughout to define the curls and give overall bounce. The 6 most flattering haircuts for women in their 40s: Long and straight Jennifer AnistonSince rocking the famous "Rachel" shag in the '90s, Aniston has always had one of the best cuts in Hollywood. The good news? The long, layered cut works on nearly everyone. It's straight with layers all around the front, longer ones in back, and blunt ends. Layering is key, but "it's important not to cut the layers too far down, and never use a razor along the bottom. Hair that's too thinned out on the ends can look thin and unhealthy," says Urban. The 6 most flattering haircuts for women in their 40s: Long waves Jennifer LopezThat old rule about not having long hair past a certain age? It's outdated just ask Lopez. With her (much!) younger man and killer curves, we imagine she's feeling sexier than ever and her hair reflects it. The long length works because of the shape of her textured layers in the front, which open up her face and give the waves a loose, flowing quality. Urban's advice for keeping long hair looking great? Use a deep conditioner weekly, because "the longer the hair, the longer those ends have been around." The 4 best haircuts for women in their 50s: Spiky and short They're glossy. They're flattering. They're cool. The best haircuts to get in your 50s happen to be cuts you'd want at any age (with a few strategic tweaks here and there). We promise, there's not a single matronly style in the bunch.Angela BassettAngela Bassett's short haircut is the anti-short short haircut: There is absolutely nothing predictable about it. "This cut works on all hair textures, and it's going to draw attention to your eyes, but also to everything else your ears, your nose, your jawline," says Solano. "Adding a short, side-swept fringe can make it a little more wearable and looks really cool but it's still going to be a daring cut." One other bizarro but important factor to take into account: "This cut only works on certain head shapes," she says. "If you have a flat head, like I do, it's going to make the top of your head look square, and no one wants that." But if you're willing to go for it, get Bassett's cool, spiky look by mussing up your hair with your fingers as you blow-dry, then do a little damage control: "Short cuts like this tend to get really puffy after they dry, so pop a baseball or knit cap on for ten minutes to calm it," says Solano. Finish by rubbing a dime-size amount of pomade between your fingers and working it through the top layers to spike-ify them. Solano likes Shu Uemura Yokan Craft for creating the effect. "It makes the hair piecey and has some hold, without being heavy or greasy." The 4 best haircuts for women in their 50s: The bob Jodie FosterJodie Foster, congratulations on your Lifetime Achievement Award and also, on achieving the perfect bob. "The A-line shape and length make this bob so stylish," says hairstylist Kattia Solano of Butterfly Studio Salon in New York City. It's ideal for fine or thinning hair (it gives limp hair instant shape) but also works on medium hair. (Just stay away if your hair is thick it'll look too puffy.) Ask your stylist to cut blunt ends with a razor. "That gives you a softer line than scissors, which tend to make bobs look like a broom," says Solano. And see how this bob hits right under Foster's chin? That's key. "If you go even an inch longer, the cut starts to look matronly," says Solano. "But you could add long, side-swept bangs, if you want to soften up the look." To style the cut, prep damp hair with a volumizing mousse on the roots (Solano likes Kérastase Paris Age Premium Mousse Substantive) and a dime-size amount of anti-frizz serum on the length (try L'Oréal Ever Pure Smooth Frizz Free Serum), and then blow-dry straight with a paddle brush. The 4 best haircuts for women in their 50s: The lob MadonnaRemember when collarbone-length hair was old-fashioned? Here's one really good clue that's not true anymore: Madonna is wearing it. "Her long, textured bob and loose waves are so much cooler than that old-school shoulder-length hair that's smooth and voluminous and coiffed," says Solano. "She has lots of uneven, piecey layers, which make this cut work­ but go easy on them if you have fine hair." Another helpful tweak that really holds true for all of these styles: "One of the biggest changes I see in the 50s is that the hair starts to thin around the hairline," says Solano. "Switching to a side part can do a lot to hide your hairline." To create Madonna's beachy texture, mist on a heat-protectant spray, like John Frieda Frizz-Ease Heat Defeat Styling Spray (don't skip that step, since hair becomes weaker with age sorry, Madge), and wrap the middle and ends around a one-inch curling iron. Finish by spritzing on a beach or saltwater spray (try Oribe Après Beach Wave and Shine Spray) and shaking out your waves with your fingers. The 4 best haircuts for women in their 50s: Long(ish) Julianne Moore"I always admire how Julianne Moore makes this length work it's long without overdoing it," says Solano. "The key is that her cut is really clean and defined, which looks sophisticated." If you have fine or medium hair, ask your stylist for delineated layers from your collarbone down, with blunt ends. If your hair is thick, adding soft layers on just the underside of the back of your hair (with scissors, not a razor) will thin it out just enough that you can still go for a blunt bottom. Sleek, uniform ends are particularly helpful if you're experiencing any thinning at the crown: "That's another common change, and the worst thing you can do is to add lots of layers in the back to try to create fullness," says Solano. "You're better off keeping the back sleek and adding more layers in the front to create volume around your face and help detract from the crown." For Moore's soft and supersexy wave, start by prepping the length of damp hair with a nickel-size amount of lightweight leave-in conditioner. It'll help tame flyaways and add smoothness and shine (not to be a downer, but that's especially important after menopause, when your scalp produces less of the natural oils that do just that). Solano likes Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique. Blow-dry your hair straight with a big, round brush, and then wrap the middle and ends around a one-and-half-inch curling iron. "Grab large sections of hair so you get big, soft waves," says Solano. Go over the finished style just once with a boar-bristle brush, and your waves will be even softer and glossier. The top 5 haircuts for women in their 60s: Pixie Sixty doesn't have to mean it's time to settle for "grandmother" hair. (Unless of course your grandmother happens to be Isabella Rossellini). Here are five stylish haircuts to belie, but still honor, your age.Isabella RosselliniPixies spotlight the face. So even if you have one as fine-featured and photogenic as Rossellini's, it doesn't hurt to keep the cut soft. "This is a feminine silhouette that's a little longer around the ears and wispy around the forehead and neckline," says Alberto VO5 spokesman and New York City hairstylist Chris Lospalluto. "Using a razor is great because it gives the ends movement and texture." Straighter textures will have an easier time with this style; use pomades and waxes, like VO5 Salon Series Perfect Hold Styling Gel, to add texture and piecey-ness. The top 5 haircuts for women in their 60s: Cropped bob Helen MirrenRemember Mirren with long hair? Yeah, neither do we. "She took a chance with a layered, tousled haircut, and it looks ten times more youthful," says Lospalluto. Ask for your hair to hit just below your jawline and add a few choppy layers for fullness; round faces should keep layers a little longer. "It's a little daring, but if you have great cheekbones and a great jawline, why not show them off?" The top 5 haircuts for women in their 60s: Shaggy lob Diane KeatonTo get Keaton's modern and universally flattering shag, have your stylist cut your hair just above your shoulders with long, shaggy layers sprinkled in along the sides and back. "This is a perfect haircut for somebody with stubborn, thick, or curly hair who doesn't want to wrestle with it. It's really good for wash-and-go," says Lospalluto. "Very fine hair might not be able to get the same volume and fullness." The side sweep adds a touch of sex appeal, keeping things flirty. Bonus: "It's also a great cut for fine or thinning hair because of the layering's movement," he says. The top 5 haircuts for women in their 60s: Mid-length with a heavy side sweep Jaclyn SmithAs they say, bangs or Botox and an angled fringe always comes to the rescue if you want to cover up any forehead lines. More than that, this look is just plain sexy. "The flattering length and side sweep make this feel fresh without going short," says Lospalluto. Ask for collarbone-length hair with light layering on the bottom only the key is to keep fullness throughout. "The longer layers allow you to curl or bend the ends under or outward. You can even use velcro rollers to enhance movement and body." The top 5 haircuts for women in their 60s: Long and layered Goldie Hawn"Sometimes longer is younger," says Lospalluto. Hawn's cut is a great example. Timeless long layers and a little feathering around the cheekbones help blend bangs seamlessly into the sides. "Sixties-style feathered bangs are really flattering if you have a delicate hairline or thin hair, because it gives you a little something to soften the face without a lot of angling." To maintain the loose, soft waves throughout the day, apply Kérastase Mousse Substantive to wet or damp hair before you blow-dry. The 5 most flattering haircuts for women in their 70s and beyond: Tousled pixie It seems like, as we get older, there are more clothes we can't wear, more makeup colors we shouldn't try, and more haircuts we don't want. Well, to that we say nonsense. Here, stars like Judi Dench, Jane Fonda, and Blythe Danner show us that short or long, thick or thin there's a cut for everyone.Judi DenchDame Judi Dench has been mastering this cropped chop for decades. Her pixie is "great for gray, textured hair and is very much a wash-and-wear look," says celebrity hairstylist Matthew Shields of Sally Hershberger salon, whose clients include Jane Fonda and Meg Ryan. To keep it modern and youthful, leave the length slightly longer than a traditional pixie, and "add a little wax or pomade just to give it texture and separation." (We like Fekkai Coiff Nonchalant Piecing and Forming Wax.) The extra length will also create the appearance of density with finer hair. Just remember that shorter haircuts require a bit more maintenance, so book a trim every four weeks to keep the style intact. The 5 most flattering haircuts for women in their 70s and beyond: Classic shag Jane Fonda"This is her signature look," says Shields, but "it works on pretty much everybody." Shags are nearly the same length all over (Jane's is about three inches) with a little extra length in the back. "You just have to work out how long you want to leave it." Too long, and you can venture into mullet territory, but too short, and your hair can resemble a Koosh ball. Aim for just enough to provide some framing around your neck. And products that create a piecey style are key; Shields likes to scrunch in Sally Hershberger Salon Texture Blast. The 5 most flattering haircuts for women in their 70s and beyond: Bob Diahann CarrollFor a versatile cut that works on almost any face shape, try Diahann Carroll's bouncy layered bob. Side-swept bangs that hit at the cheekbones frame and balance the face, while long layers provide body (great for thinning hair) and prevent the cut from "hanging too heavy and making a triangle shape," Shields explains. To get Carroll's classic red-carpet look, set hair with hot rollers (try John Frieda Styling Tools by Conair Body & Shine Smooth Waves), or blow-dry straight for a more modern feel. The 5 most flattering haircuts for women in their 70s and beyond: Soft bangs Blythe DannerOne of the easiest ways to update your haircut and take off a few years is to add side-swept bangs like Blythe Danner's they'll soften your face and hide imperfections. Opt for a lighter fringe over heavy, blunt bangs à la Zooey Deschanel, which can look "a little bit too trendy," says Shields. And ask your hairstylist to cut them "jagged, with a little layering so it's softer." For finer hair with length, be sure to keep the cut at the collarbone with just a few long layers throughout for volume fine hair with too much length and too many layers can end up looking limp and stringy. The 5 most flattering haircuts for women in their 70s and beyond: Long and layered Raquel WelchYou know the silly rule that says once you hit a certain age, you should chop all your hair off? Forget it. Sure, you don't want a ratty ponytail reaching down to your derriere, but you can still definitely "wear some length and be sexy," says Shields. For medium to thick hair (this cut won't work on hair that's too thin), start with graduated face-framing layers the shortest ones should hit at the top of your cheekbones. Add in plenty of additional layers throughout for fullness and shape, leaving enough length at the bottom to "cascade at your neck and shoulders" and hit just a few inches past the collarbone. And to mimic Raquel's glossy waves, apply both a root-lifting and a smoothing product to damp hair (Shields likes Sally Hersberger Salon Shape Up and Shu Uemura Satin Design White Tea Polishing Milk), blow dry, then wrap two-inch sections of hair around a large-barrel curling iron and finger-rake through to loosen the waves.

lifestyle

Amazing advice from real married couples and people who have seen, studied, and lived really good love. Don't try to change what you fell for "Remember that every trait you love about your mate has a corresponding not-so-lovable flip side. So if you adore them for thinking outside of the box, don't beat them over the head for not fitting in with the Joneses. Embrace what's unique. That's worth more than all the Joneses in the world." --Kerry Ehrin, writer and producer for NBC's Parenthood and Friday Night Lights Cut the apron strings, already "After 30 years of helping couples buy and sell real estate, I've learned that how involved the in-laws are is a good predictor of happiness. If either spouse listens to their parents' opinion instead of their partner's, I know I'll get that house back as a new listing soon, when the divorce is final." --Barbara Corcoran, real estate mogul Prioritize your health "A physically healthier you translates into every facet of your life, including your romantic relationship. It's a trickle-down effect: When you eat right and exercise, you feel sexy and more comfortable with your body. That will give you the confidence to really be vulnerable, which is essential to intimacy--and it will improve your sex life." --Jillian Michaels, health and wellness expert, author of Slim for Life: My Insider Secrets to Simple, Fast, and Lasting Weight Loss Be silly "Laughing relaxes you and makes you feel closer, so make it a priority. My husband loves to tell jokes just to make me smile, and I enjoy sneaking a tickle when he least expects it. It sounds like a small thing, but it makes a big difference." --REDBOOK contributor Hilda Hutcherson, M.D., ob/gyn and professor at Columbia University in New York City Keep on growing apart "As important as it is to spend time together, a marriage is not an island--each of you also needs a support system of friends and family, and your own interests. I love swimming and biking, while he enjoys playing the piano and reading. Having differing passions can keep a marriage strong by taking the pressure off you to be everything to each other." --REDBOOK READER RUTH NEMZOFF, MARRIED TO HARRIS BERMAN FOR 48 YEARS Dream big "Spend time each week, maybe it's every Friday night, talking about your hopes and aspirations as a couple, and think about what will make you happiest going forward. You can say, 'We'll buy a house in our favorite neighborhood within five years,' or, 'We'll have another kid by next summer,' or even, 'We'll eventually visit the beaches of Greece together'--because it's not about planning, it's about imagining. This kind of thinking supplies the motivation to work toward what you want, and recover from setbacks along the way. Couples who don't imagine a bright future together become stuck and brittle... and brittle things break." --Ben Michaelis, Ph.D., clinical psychologist and author of Your Next Big Thing Stop asking "Do I look fat?" "Research shows that most women overstate their body size by 25 percent or more. Your butt just got ¼ smaller! Now, instead of asking your partner to judge your figure, you can both concentrate on your relationship." --Michael Alvear, author of Not Tonight Dear, I Feel Fat Don't nag: Trick him (a little) "If you want something, make it seem like it's his idea. All you have to do is plant the seed--it'll grow. Last Christmas, I talked to my husband about our grandchildren's gifts: 'It would be nice if the boys had their own computers. I know they probably cost twice what Julie could afford.' An hour later he said, 'If she could pay for one, we could buy the other.' My reply: 'Good idea, Frank!'" --REDBOOK READER DAWNE POLITO, MARRIED TO FRANK FOR 43 YEARS Don't skimp on pillow talk "Both sleep and love call for a similar type of psychological surrender. When we're sleepy, our defenses are diminished and we're more emotionally present, making this a good time to deepen intimacy." --Rubin Naiman, Ph.D., sleep and dream psychologist Give each other the once-over "Never stop reminding your partner that you find him attractive. My husband recently said, 'Let's take this upstairs, Sexy.' I told him to shush--but it made me smile." --REDBOOK READER CONNIE KALINOWSKI, MARRIED TO JOE FOR 46 YEARS Get a reliable babysitter "Studies show that an important predictor of relationship happiness is how often a couple socializes with friends, so plan a double date. And don't feel guilty about leaving the kids--parents today spend more time with their children than any others in the past 100 years, but they do it at the expense of adult time, which is essential for a strong and happy relationship. Being with friends gives you new things to talk about and allows you to show each other off. Say, 'Tell them that joke you told me!' or, 'He's doing so great at work.' Sharing your mate's strong points with others makes you both feel proud and happy." --Stephanie Coontz, director of research and public education, Council on Contemporary Families Be honest and vocal about your finances "No one loves to talk about money, but secrets, whether it's a bad investment or your late-night e-shopping habit, always come out and destroy trust. I've worked with couples who are over $100,000 in credit card debt and on the brink of divorcing, but are able to stop blaming each other, get it paid off, and stay together. I've also worked with couples whose marriages ended because they couldn't come clean about their spending habits. Discussing debt, spending, savings--everything--is the only thing that can help you overcome financial obstacles." --Karen Lee, certified financial planner Compliment his...skills "Men are most loving when they feel manly, and nothing makes a man feel more masculine than being praised for his lovemaking. Keep it simple: Say, 'You were great,' or, 'I loved what you did to me last night,' and walk away. Don't look for a return compliment--the comment must be a gift. Then watch how he'll make an effort to be good to you after that--and I don't just mean sexually." --Abraham Morgentaler, M.D., author of the upcoming book Why Men Fake It: The Truth About Men and Sex Indulge each other's passions "My husband's a big golfer, so I took lessons so we could play together. Now that I can keep up with him, it's nice to have a friendly competition going, and he enjoys that we do something he loves--and can give me pointers at." --Misty May-Treanor, Olympic gold medalist Let him go "That doesn't mean stop caring. It means be secure enough within yourself that you don't freak out if he's not with you and you don't know exactly where he is. I've never tried to control Fred, and the fire is still hot." --REDBOOK READER JOYCE FIELDS, MARRIED TO FRED FOR 45 YEARS Ask the right question "You must stay curious. I learned this from watching couples in conversation say things like, 'Are you done yet?' so they could have their turn. The other person inevitably responds defensively because they feel unheard. When the listener was coached to instead ask, 'Is there more about that?' in an interested tone, the speaker relaxed, and began to talk from a deeper level, which made for more meaningful discussions." --Harville Hendrix, Ph.D., relationship therapist and coauthor of Making Marriage Simple: Ten Truths for Changing the Relationship You Have Into the One You Want Have a secret language "We have a system of hand-squeeze signals to use at parties to find out: Do you love me? Shall we leave now? Do you want to make love when we get home? Communicating without anyone else knowing gives you a rush and makes you feel even closer." --REDBOOK READER LOIS TSCHETTER HJELMSTAD, MARRIED TO LES FOR 64 YEARS Get yourself in the mood "Couples share so many mundane activities, like washing dishes, changing diapers, and paying the bills; it can be easy for the relationship to lose its sexual charge. The most successful pairs take the time to prime themselves for sex, instead of waiting for a lightning bolt of lust to strike them in the middle of a harried day. It sounds weird at first, but I tell clients who are having intimacy problems to get their motors running by thinking about their partner's sexiest qualities for at least 10 minutes per day, and to create new fantasies about them. Or, dream up your ideal erotic encounter, build anticipation by rehearsing it in your mind, and then make it happen. If you really focus on it, you'll notice a change in your level of desire take shape immediately." --Brandy Engler, psychologist and author of The Men on My Couch Be biased about him "I work with a lot of couples who get in trouble because they let anger at their partner over one thing poison their whole view. Suddenly, the person is annoying, difficult, unattractive, and selfish. I teach them to use the 'halo effect'--which means that you use one outstanding trait to generalize an overly favorable view of someone. The trick is to keep positive images of each other front and center, even during disagreements or feelings of boredom. Despite a current annoyance, they can then recall that their partner is funny, has beautiful eyes, or is sweetly protective. Holding on to that valued image will keep you from spiraling toward the disdain that makes couples split up." --Gail Saltz, M.D., psychiatrist and best-selling author of The Ripple Effect: How Better Sex Can Lead to a Better Life Get a little privacy "A lot of people would say that the best thing you can do is practice patience, or never go to bed angry, but really? Separate bathrooms. Everyone needs a private space, and the bathroom makes for an excellent one." --REDBOOK READER GYLEAN TRABUCCHI, MARRIED TO ZENO FOR 46 YEARS

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When life gets stressful, it can make you think twice about how things could have been different but too much questioning can turn toxic. Here's how to break the pattern. Stop putting past relationships on a pedestal We've all been there. Those days, when your husband won't pick up his phone all day, two of your friends booked anniversary trips, and you get offered a job you can't take because it doesn't fit your family's schedule, it's easy to float back to a time when things were easier with an ex who quoted you poetry and seemed to know exactly when your shoulders needed a rub. All of a sudden, you could find yourself wondering what life would be like if you'd stayed with the co-ed who got away."It's easy to romanticize someone that you broke up with because your memory is not of the reality," says clinical psychologist Dr. Melanie Greenberg. "You don't have the experience of doing errands and all of that mundane stuff that's a part of a lasting relationship."The key is to remember that you found a husband who loves you and has been there through it all. It's not fair to compare your college boyfriend to your partner. The other guy is just a fantasy. Your partner is a reality who never gave up on you. Accentuate the positive Fixating on "what ifs" can spiral you into a dark, unproductive place."If you spend your whole day questioning why you married your husband, you're going to look for his bad qualities and fail to notice the good in him," says Greenberg.For instance, when he comes home after a stressful day of work, his first stop might be to check the score on Monday night football, not the kitchen to do the dishes he promised he'd take care of. If you're fixated on his annoying flaws, you may take this as a sign that he's willfully ignoring your wishes. More often than not, it results in an exaggerations-filled fight about how he never listens to you, followed by more false thinking that if you'd married any of your friend's dutiful, loving husbands, you'd never have to remind them to clean.When you aren't dwelling on regret, you can more clearly see that your husband just needed to decompress for a minute before he started his chores. His desire to take a moment for himself isn't a reflection of how much he cares about you. Consider what you can change Often if you're steeped in "what ifs," it's because something else is lacking in your relationship, like you're feeling rejected or underappreciated. Say the only way you ever go on dates with your partner is if you make them happen, which makes you feel like he doesn't find you as attractive as he did when you first started dating. It might sound cliché, but it's true: He's not a mind reader. He might assume that you like planning dates, or be worried he'll disappoint you if he picks the wrong activity.If you're feeling neglected and insecure, ask your husband for what you'd like so that you can figure out how to make each other feel better. Get out of your own head Keeping your thoughts secret from your husband can feel like a form of cheating, but the burden of harboring these emotions could seriously weigh you down. Regret can also result in chronic stress, which is bound to negatively impact your relationship."Regrets and 'what-ifs' ruin relationships because you never get to know how your here and now could have unfolded should you have put the past aside," says Dr. Marc Muchnick, author of "No More Regrets".Don't be afraid to take risks or be vulnerable. Dare to be completely honest with each other (in a non-critical way). If you do this, you could find that everything you've been looking for is just underneath the surface. Move forward When your brain is stuck in the gear of regret, it's like a car caught in reverse. You literally can't go forward until you shift. Sometimes you need to rotate backward for a bit to get yourself out of the mud, but once you've dislodged your tires from all of that dirt, it's time to return to first gear."Regret does nothing but hold you back and keep you from the love you deserve," says Kailen Rosenberg, author of "Real Love, Right Now". "Without it, you are able to see all of the gifts and the beauty around you, which brings a newfound sense of awareness into the relationship you already have."Only then can you start looking ahead to where all of the great possibilities in your lifelong road trip lie.

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Research shows that tackling a challenge together, celebrating or learning more about your partner, being active together, doing the sexy stuff, sharing interests or exploring new ones, and making time for talking or laughter are vital to keeping relationships strong. This summer, you can do it all. It's enough to melt the heart of even the stoniest date-night skeptic. And I should know, since until recently, that was me. When my son was still in diapers, the effort required to get myself out the door babysitter, reservations, shaving my legs would suck the sexy out of the evening before it even started.A few years down the road, my son is a more manageable 7 years old and I'm researching mini-golf greens and hitting up Moviefone. I want to be one of those picture-posting, cocktail-tasting couples, and I want you to be there too. So, with some reader help, I made a plan. In fact, I made a bunch of plans. Just turn the page and say, "Sure, sounds fun." Visit your childhoods If you want to look into the happy, hope-y, open heart of love, American-style, pour yourself a cup of coffee on a Sunday morning and search Instagram for #datenight. Up will come shots of dinners out, twin ice cream cones, concert stages from nosebleed seats, cute dresses and slinky tops, comfy slippers and Netflix, beachside bonfires shout-outs to couple time, from Alaska to Atlanta.Were you the queen of the monkey bars in elementary school? Did your hubby spend ninth grade learning to tie a fly? Introduce each other to your childhood passions. You'll uncover some small clue about your partner's past, and keeping those little discoveries coming is key, whether you've been together six months or 60 years. Learn to...camp Don't let a profound lack of outdoors skills keep you from a night under the stars: Sign up for The North Face's Camping 101 program, and for around $20 you'll get to borrow some top-notch equipment and stay out overnight with a ranger who'll teach you the ropes. (See exploreyourparks.com for locations.) Learn to...salsa Many salsa clubs offer free early-evening dance classes once a week, so newbies can learn some steps before the doors open to the serious dancers. Check the website of local salsa clubs for details. Learn to...do yoga Once a week, many Lululemon locations roll their racks away and host a free yoga class. Look for one near you at lululemon.com. Learn to...renovate In exchange for your time volunteering, groups like Habitat for Humanity and the HandsOn Network Affiliates will teach you basic skills like how to wield a crowbar. You'll do good then come home ready to rip out that paneling you've always hated. No babysitter? No problem. "Our oldest, Tate, has been begging to babysit since she was 6. So we fix the kids a simple supper, then retreat to the bedroom to eat our own while she deals with her brothers. Once they're tucked in, we kiss everyone good-night and give her $2 an hour and an extra-special thanks. Everyone is in love with 'Tate nights!'" Tsh Oxenreider, author of "Notes From a Blue Bike: The Art of Living Intentionally in a Chaotic World""We'd get the kids ready for bed, settle them with a movie, and leave four quarters on the stairs for each of them. If they came downstairs for no good reason we set guidelines! they lost a quarter. My husband and I would dim the lights and enjoy dessert and conversation. It was wonderful, and cost $3!" Victoria Huizinga, Orlando, FL"About once a month, I trade slumber parties with our neighbors: They take all the kids on Friday night, then I take them on Saturday." Sandy Wolf, New Haven, CT Go on an 'everyday date' Strapped for time? Make a list of five ordinary tasks that you normally handle alone like picking up the kids from school, doing yard work, or walking the dog and have your partner do the same. Then swap lists and agree on two from each that you'd be willing to tackle together once a week or once every other. Mundane activities can become sweetly intimate this way… and you might get done twice as fast. Or buy that time back The cleaners at Homejoy will come make your house sparkle while you devote that energy to your hubs. Go to homejoy.com/redbook to get a 2.5-hour cleaning for $38 (a $77 savings). Let someone else plot it out If you live near New York City, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, or Los Angeles, sign up at HowAboutWe for 30 days of access to its menu of fully planned, just-sign-up-and-show-up dates (recent favorites: a bike taco tour in L.A. and a D.I.Y. workshop rehabbing old furniture at the Rebuilding Exchange in Chicago). Many are free, but REDBOOK readers also get $50 off if you want a bigger blowout (go to howaboutwe.com/couples/redbook). Do what they did... "Put on temporary tattoos! We got cheesy ones, like big flowers and funny sayings, and put them all over ourselves. It was hilarious." Kayla Tompkins, Los Angeles Do what they did... "Just get in the car and go. My boyfriend and I do a lot of impromptu road trips. Afterward, our friends will say, 'I can't believe you did that!' But then they follow up with, 'I'm so jealous!'" Jessica Edney, Cleveland Do what they did... "Make a list of where you want to be in two, five, or 10 years. On one of our favorite dates, my then-boyfriend suggested we drive around and look at houses. It surprised me that he'd like to do that, but afterward he said, 'I wanted us to imagine our future together.' He's my husband now, and we set time aside to dream regularly." Deidre Guillory, Los Angeles Go stargazing At a nearby observatory: Many are open to the public at least once a month. Some are free or just a couple dollars; others offer lectures, concerts, movies, and even overnights. Go to telescopes.stardate.org to find those close to you. Go stargazing In the wild: Not all national parks close at dusk. Several have nighttime programs, such as the moonlight hikes at Bryce Canyon in Utah, the telescope program in Colorado's Rockies, and if you dare the bat-flight breakfasts at Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico. Check out Night Skies at nature.nps.gov for programs near you. Get ready the sexy way You've seen the pedicure scene in "Bull Durham," right? Schedule some at-home spa time when no one else is around this is probably not going to be PG-13. (50 readers will win a Dr. Teal's pampering package: rosemary mint soaking solution, foot soak, and the new lavender body oil. See redbookmag.com/freebies for more details) Reenact your first date "Five years ago, my husband and I went out for the first time. He took me to Noodles & Company, then to a nearby pond to feed the ducks, then we went to have crepes for dessert. There was so much chemistry, he says it was like we were old friends that just had to catch up a lot. Now we relive it every year, and every time it brings back the newness and the butterflies… even after two kids!" Jessi Henri, Salt Lake City Have date night for lunch or breakfast "My husband travels a lot and we don't live near family; it's hard to get away in the evenings. So any Friday he's in town, we meet for lunch. It always makes us feel closer." Michelle Wallace, Chicago Don't beat yourself up if you end up at Target or Costco An informal survey says it happens a lot especially to parents. And it can be its own simple pleasure to get some shopping done without a kid doing his best to get lost in aisle 32. But if it happens every single time, go to the top of this list and try again. Win an overnight date Friday evening, home by 11, just not cutting it? Enter for a chance to win one of these amazing getaways. (See redbookmag.com/freebies for more great sweepstakes)3 nights at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Michigan, including a stand-up paddle-boarding lesson for 2 at the resort's private beach, dinner at the Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, a couples massage, and more.2 nights at Skyland Resort or Big Meadows Lodge in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, plus a horseback ride, tubing on the Shenandoah River, and more.2 nights at B2 Miami Downtown, plus a couples massage, dinner and drinks at Biscayne Tavern, a sunset cruise with Island Queen Cruises, a double kayak rental, and more.

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And how you can attack the issues together. Lack of appreciation The expert says: Whether you work in an office, run a household, or some combination of the two, you're both likely frustrated with your heaping plates of responsibility. And although it's a natural reaction, piling on more the second your partner walks through the door is not the best way to get him to hear or help you."Instead of leading with a list, understand that he may need a few minutes to unwind," says Kara Thompson, a licensed family and marriage therapist in Lenexa, KS. You'll both listen better when you've decompressed and can actually focus on the issues at hand. Fun times wane The expert says: Good news: If you both feel like you need more one-on-one time, you're already on the same page, which means you're well on your way. The next step is to stop keeping a mental score sheet of who made plans the last time and put it on both of you to jump at the opportunity to, say, see a band you like when they perform nearby or try a new restaurant with an innovative menu. In the end, it matters way less who dealt with the logistics than the fact that you bonded and enjoyed your time together. It's always all about the kids The expert says: There's no question that having an open dialogue about your children is important, but we understand that it can get tedious after a while. Once the kids go to bed or while they're out at weekend activities, make an effort to chat about lighthearted topics, like the results of a Buzzfeed quiz you both took, as well as more serious news or political issues to keep you connected and stimulated as a couple. She's not as romantic as she was The expert says: Relationships change and evolve, and sometimes the very qualities that attracted you to your husband are the ones that wind up making you nuts. It could be that you're simply too stressed with the day-to-day to experience romance the same way and that's okay. The key is to come to a collective understanding of what sweet gestures now do it for you. A change of environment may do it consider taking a break from the grind and going away for a long weekend. Sexual appetite fading The expert says: "Switches don't just get turned off," says Thompson. "There is usually something more going on in situations like this." If you felt like you had to put on a mask to get your husband to marry you, you may want to examine what's beneath the surface that made you feel that way. "When individual issues come up in therapy, I think it's important for both partners to look at them together." Decisions, decisions The expert says: If you're unhappy about how much your husband helps out around the house, make sure you understand where he's coming from. What you see as slacking may be his thinking a hands-off approach is a sign of respect and trust. "Speak up and let him know when his help would be appreciated," says Thompson. And on the flip side, if you have trouble letting go of doing every single thing, ask yourself what it would look like if you started to delegate. Would it really be so bad if the dishwasher was loaded differently, or would you end up with clean plates anyway? Changing belief system The expert says: If one person's faith is diverging from the other's beliefs, make a joint effort to stay on the same page or at least close chapters as much as possible. "If you feel like his spiritual efforts aren't good enough, you need to be honest with yourself and your husband," says Thompson. Figure out what he can do to connect with you spiritually and otherwise, and consider enlisting the help of your religious leader, who's likely dealt with issues like this before. Lack of intimacy The expert says: Both you and your husband deserve equal say in your marriage, so it shouldn't be up to one person to determine your sexual state as a couple. That's partially because far more often than not, lack of sex is the symptom not the problem. "When you get into a pattern for a really long time, it can be painful and difficult to change those habits," says Thompson. If you're dealing with a chasm this wide, it's worth considering couples counseling. One-way support system The expert says: It's human nature to occasionally get so wrapped up in your own issues that it's difficult to see someone else's perspective. "When we protect ourselves, we feel like we are the only one who feel a certain way," says Thompson. "But once you sit down together and start looking at yourselves and how you've been impacted, most partners realize they feel the exact same way." Voice your feelings of isolation before the next crisis comes up so you have a plan in place for when things get tough, like agreeing to take a few hours for yourself, then sitting down for a cup of coffee and a heart-to-heart. Work comes first The expert says: Being passionate about and invested in your career is a good thing, but like much else, it's a question of balance. You may not suddenly be able to give up working from home or checking in with your boss via email, but you can set some basic guidelines that distinguish between personal and professional time. That might mean agreeing to after-hours tasks only every other day, or turning off your email alerts after 9 p.m. so you and your husband can give each other your undivided attention.

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If you've ever found yourself groaning that date night's gotten too monotonous and hey, we've been there you haven't read these horrifying, laugh-out-loud, and anything-but-boring tales. Takeout and TiVo are looking better already. Citizen's arrest About two years ago my husband, Andy, and I witnessed a hit-and-run on our way home from dinner. I usually avoid any and all dangerous situations, but in this case it seemed so unjust that I yelled, 'Follow that car!' We trailed it for 30 minutes while on the phone with the police, ultimately ending up at an apartment complex, which we sat outside of until the police arrived. Date night: Avengers-style. Cana, 24, Birmingham, AL Eat up My husband and I celebrated our fifth anniversary by splurging on a big dinner at a fancy restaurant in New York City s Central Park. We were seated at a perfect table overlooking the beautifully lit outdoor area, happily sipping our wine and leisurely eating two bowls of delicious lobster bisque. Then, it struck me first: a tummy rumble so loud I swore the next table could hear it. By the time our entrées came, we couldn t take it anymore, and begged our waiter to wrap up the food. We then proceeded to sprint down Central Park West, trying to beat the lobster bisque to the bathroom. We spent the next three hours taking turns on the toilet, which made for the least romantic date of either of our lives. To this day, we both refuse to eat lobster bisque. Marisa, 30, New York City Lackluster lap dance "I wanted to do something special for my husband's first birthday of our marriage, and I thought a sexy sleepover would be perfect. He came home from work exhausted, so I instructed him to relax on the couch while I got ready. I was nervous, feeling silly rather than sexy, but I refused to chicken out. I'd picked a background song for my little performance, so I pushed play on the stereo and sauntered sexily into the living room. There, I found my husband fast asleep, snoring loudly, and still wearing his boots and hat. I felt too sorry for him to wake him up, so I merely covered him with a blanket and took my scantily-clad self to bed alone." Tsara, 38, Teague, TX Featured entertainment My husband, Mike, and I went to see a free summer movie in the park, complete with a picnic blanket and basket and lots to eat and drink. But soon after the movie started, I got up to go to the bathroom, and on the way there I tripped over a cord and the outdoor screen went blank and everyone started booing. It was pretty clear I was responsible for the mishap, but since I still had to pee, all I could think to do was continue to the ladies room. It wasn t exactly my best showing of grace under pressure! Anjel, 36, Atlanta Rain on our parade "For one of our first dates, my wife, Jessica, and I drove to our local Chili's. It looked like it was about to rain, so I warned Jessica that we'd have to make a dash for it. I intended to let her out quickly then get back in the car to lock up, but instead she closed the door behind her and it locked with the car still on. I didn't have a spare key, so we merely waited until some very kind locksmiths coincidentally pulled into the parking lot. (This was after I'd run around, desperately looking for some kind of makeshift car door-unlocking tool.) I was so happy that I offered them the $25 gift card that I'd planned to use for my date. So with no money, wet, and exhausted, Jessica and I headed next door to Arby's. I can't believe I got her to go out with me again." Vincent, 28, Hollywood, FL The glass is not half full "After a stressful trip to take care of my grandmother's funeral arrangements, my husband met me at the airport so we could go out to dinner. When I saw him, I took off running, full speed ahead, with my wheelie bag in tow. I expected the automatic doors to, well, automatically open, but no such luck. I smacked right into the glass, making a sound so loud that the entire baggage claim area went silent. I attempted to recover by sitting down on a bench, but I misjudged how close I was to the seat and fell to the ground instead. I was howling with laughter, but people assumed I was in shock. They probably still do, since I couldn't pull it together long enough to reassure them that I was okay, and that this debacle was just par for the course with me." Katherine, 37, Lancaster, PA We'll have what he's having "My husband, Steve, and I decided to try out a new authentic Chinese restaurant that was getting rave reviews. But a few bites into his meal, Steve began acting very strange, laughing uncontrollably, and just being plain silly, almost as if he were drunk. He knew something was up too, but we couldn't figure it out until Steve mentioned that in college he'd had a similar reaction to a cup of black tea. Well, it turns out his duck was roasted in black tea. We still have no idea what's in the stuff that makes him react that way, but he may as well have had ten shots of tequila. I had to drive home, and on the way there he nearly passed out in the passenger seat. So much for a night of stimulating conversation!" Amy, 38, Richmond, VA What not to give "My birthday was coming up, and while I was cleaning the house one day I came across a small gift-wrapped box hidden under the bed. It looked like jewelry, and it took all my self-control not to open it then and there. But I waited, and at my birthday dinner at a fancy restaurant my husband, Dave, pulled out that very box. He's not the romantic type, so I was impressed. That lasted until I unwrapped the box and found a timer switch for the tumble dryer, something I'd mentioned would be a useful purchase, but not exactly my idea of a romantic gift. We had serious words about how I never wanted to receive household items for my birthday again, and, 22 years later, I thankfully have not." Tina, 47, Brownsburg, IN

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They're not NBD, and they can put a real dent in your marriage. Getting mired down in details Couscous or quinoa for dinner? "House of Cards" or "True Detective?" Relationships are all about negotiation, but hashing out every tiny decision can leave little room in your lives for conversations that count, warns Gilda Carle, Ph.D., a relationship expert and author of "Don't Bet On the Prince." An idea: Use a couples app like Avocado, which lets you keep running lists, chats, and calendars that each of you can check during downtime, so you don't feel like you have to make a million decisions the second you finally reconnect in person. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. Putting the kids first Every so often, a public figure sparks a major outcry when she admits to prioritizing her spouse above her kids, but that's usually because people are confused as to what exactly doing so entails. "It doesn't mean that your kids are second-class citizens," says Marcia Naomi Berger, a marriage and family therapist in San Rafael, CA, and author of "Marriage Meetings For Lasting Love." "It's about recognizing a separate, vital connection between you and your spouse that is different than the one you have with the kids." Date nights (and sex dates) can keep your bond strong, but it's equally important to present a united front about everyday parenting decisions. "When your kids know you're a unit, they won't play you off of each other, which can create friction." Love this? Follow us on Facebook. Not dreaming enough Before marriage and kids, you likely had a pretty long list of things you wanted to try learn French! Climb Kilimanjaro! but as you get older and family life becomes more consuming, not to mention expensive, it's easy to shrug aside those aspirations as frivolous. Not so, say experts. "Accessing your passions the things that make you you keep you self-aware, and give you and your partner ways to connect," says Berger. And while it might not be feasible to jet off to Africa, getting tickets to see a visiting South African band or buying your science-obsessed guy a yearlong membership to the museum (instead of a tie he'll maybe wear twice) not only keeps you both in touch with the things that make you tick, but also provides plenty of date-night opportunities. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. Being Mrs. Fix It "So many of my female clients are experts at pointing out problems to their husbands, but they never involve their guys in the solution," says Berger. Not only that, but always telling your guy what's wrong "We're so behind on our tax paperwork" or "Why don't we have summer vacation plans yet?" doesn't exactly leave him dying to help out. Instead, frame the issue as a puzzle you need his help solving. "It lets him feel indispensible, which is appealing," says Carle. It may sound like ego-stroking, but saying something like, "You're the Expedia wizard, and I think your skills and a bottle of wine on Tuesday night would be a great way to get the vacation plans sorted" will get the job done. Plus, that experience will likely be a whole lot more fun than nagging the deed out of him. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. Ignoring a rough patch Soldiering on can be more detrimental to your marriage than simply admitting things aren't working as well as they should be. If a new work project has him overwhelmed, leading to late nights and less-than-stellar moods, you may be inclined to keep quiet for fear of piling on more pressure. But that will only lead to withdrawal on your end and confusion on his. Start by telling him how you feel, and focus on feasible solutions, says Berger. Maybe it's inviting your parents over for a week to help with the kids, or clearing a weekend to hang out together. If that doesn't do it, a few therapy sessions may. "A lot of couples only seek counseling when a relationship is in serious trouble, but it can be hugely helpful when most things are going well, but you need some help in one area," says Berger. Love this? Follow us on Facebook. Using the words 'always' and 'never' They may seem innocuous, but these words are dangerous in a relationship, warns Carle. Why? Because the more you use them, the more your partner becomes a character or ideal instead of an individual with flaws and quirks who doesn't always behave the way you assume he will. Being conscious of when you use these words in neutral settings "He never goes to the gym at night" or "He always orders the buffalo wings here" will make you less likely to speak them in arguments, when comments like, "You never listen"can make the difference between a squabble and a major fight. Love this? Follow us on Facebook.

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More from Allure: 50 Beauty Products to Try Before You Die Find the Best Haircut for Your Face Shape The 10 Best Drugstore Anti-aging Products The 13 Prettiest Date-Night Hairstyles 34 Hair Ideas for 2014 Celebrity Hairstyles That Will Make You Look 10 Years Younger Ever notice how Blair Waldorf always seemed to be on her worst behavior when she looked her absolute best? In a recent study, researchers at Stanford University found that when people pulled up memories of times when they felt attractive, they were more likely to agree with statements that support inequality and social hierarchy (like "Lower wages for women and ethnic minorities simply reflect lower skill and education levels"). In other words, when you feel beautiful, you tend to believe you belong to a higher social class, and more than that, you believe those below you deserve to be there. But if you wake up with a zit on your nose, you're more sympathetic to inequality. Professor Margaret Neale and doctoral student Peter Belmi of Stanford Graduate School of Business got the idea for the study after noticing that Americans' spending on personal grooming kept up at the same steady rate during times of recession. They found that even if your social status has been comprised, feeling good about your personal appearance can take it up a notch in your mind. But that doesn't give you permission to turn into a fascist every time you get a killer blowout. Instead, for an instant self-confidence boost, try recalling a compliment you got that made you feel great before you head into a swanky party or give a presentation. And leave other people out of it.

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Usually, your guy can't get enough of you. Which is why he's willing to deal with these behaviors that may seem NBD to you, but drive him up the wall. Your accessory attachment "Our bed is pretty much overtaken with pillows, and she wants me to stack them neatly on the chair every night. Also, if I take a nap, she'll sometimes even pull a pillow out from under me because she says the pillow is 'not for sleeping.' Then why is it on the bed?" Dave W., 37, Savannah, GA Your media multi-tasking "Listen, I'm not into The Real Housewives, but I am into my wife, so I'll agree to watch the show with her. But I mean, one show. She's switching channels so often, and then, when I ask a question, she looks at me like I'm a moron. Somehow, she's managed to follow three storylines perfectly while I can't even keep up with what channel we're on!" Chad C., 41, Seattle, WA When you drop the F-bomb (not that one) "Whenever my girlfriend asks if she looks fat, I just feel my stomach sink. It doesn't matter what I say, she won't be reassured, and I hate knowing that she's feeling self-conscious when I think she looks beautiful." Jeff R., Keller, TX When you mom him "I hate when my wife tells me to put on sunscreen. Once, when I was playing a game of softball with some buddies at a picnic, she ran onto the field with a tube in her hand! I love and appreciate how much she cares about me, but sometimes she treats me like another one of our kids and not a grown man." Jason C., Madison, NJ Your frenemy fixation "Whenever my fiancé goes out with one particular friend, she'll immediately come home and start complaining to me about her. But when I ask why she continues to see her, she looks at me like I'm crazy. Guys don't have frenemies. We just have friends and enemies. Why do you make it so confusing?" Matt H., 35, New York, NY Your deep involvement in drama "One time, my wife was really worked up about what 'Kyle' had done. I racked my brain, thinking it was one of my wife's coworkers or college friends, and then, about five minutes into the conversation, I realized she was talking about "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills." She was so emotional I assumed it was someone she knew, not a television character." Alex C., 36, Madison, WI Your wonky sense of time "For my girlfriend, 'be there in a sec' can mean anything from she's turning in the driveway to she's still at her desk at work and has a conference call scheduled in 10 minutes. She's worth the wait, but I just wish she'd understand that even if she'd like things to take a second, some stuff like wrapping up a meeting and driving across town takes time. If I have an accurate estimate, at least then I won't be looking at the door every two seconds like a lonely puppy." Steve R., 38, Atlanta, GA Your sneaky menu manipulation "My wife has a habit of telling me what I should order. And when I do, she inevitably ends up pouting at her meal while saying mine looks so good. So she gets the steak frites I asked for, while I get her broiled salmon, served over some sad-looking greens. Please just order what you want, so we can both be happy!" Russ K., 33, Washington, D.C. Your magical mental powers "Sometimes, I'll be telling a story and my girlfriend will interrupt and say something like, 'that wasn't when you were in seventh grade. It was ninth grade.' And the weirdest thing is, she's right. We didn't know each other when we were growing up, but somehow, she's managed to know my history better than I do. And it's cool. I just wish she wouldn't be so vocal about her powers when we're with other people. It makes it sound like I'm kind of an idiot!" Jon S., 28, Merrick, NY Your masochistic streak "Why do you brag about how much your shoes hurt? Guys don't do that. If shoes hurt, we take them off and return them. Meanwhile, you turn up your nose at comfortable shoes and then we're the ones who have to listen to you complain all night." Joe W., 32, Cambridge, MA When you assume we're psychic "Sometimes, my girlfriend will get mad and say, 'you know what you did.' Honestly, I don't. Why don't you just tell me so we can talk about that instead of playing some angry guessing game for an hour?" Jon R., 33, New York, NY

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The whole point of traveling is to get away from it all, so don't let these little arguments drag you down. Here's how to stop squabbles before they even happen. 'Are you seriously on your phone now?' From Facebook to Twitter to work email that automatically routes to your smartphone, it feels like you and your husband have talked more to your coworkers and followers than you have to each other. Eventually, instead of Instagrammig a cute couple shot, you and he end up angrily snapping at each other."Before you go, decide how much technology you want to use on the trip," suggests Vinita Mehta, PhD, a clinical psychologist. "It may be unrealistic to have a week that's completely unplugged, but deciding to only deal with work e-mail or social networking before breakfast and after lunch sets expectations." Since you both know you'll have access to the Internet, you're less likely to get antsy or mindlessly check your news feed while lounging by the pool. 'You want what?' Getting away from the everyday can change the way you two talk to each other, leading to less conversations about schedules and to-do lists and more about fears, hopes, and goals. But these serious talks can lead to major misunderstandings. For example, you may bring up the idea of having another child as a far-off hypothetical, but if he responds negatively, you may get surprisingly defensive, turning a lighthearted chat into an issue-laden argument. It's okay to suggest that you table the topic until you get home and switch over to lighter matters, and if it's a discussion about something neither of you have mentioned before, like, say, moving to a new town, don't stress if his words take you by surprise. One weird conversation shouldn't cast a shadow over the entire trip. 'I don't know what I want to do. You figure it out!' Dehydration, exhaustion and hunger can push even the most even-keeled adults to the edge. Add the unfamiliarity of a place and throw in a wrench in the plan like learning a restaurant has an hour-long wait and it's all too easy for you to start sniping at each other."When you're under stress, you lash out at the person closest to you, and when you're on vacation, the fact that your guy's likely the only person you know for miles creates the perfect environment for these types of arguments," says Anna Ranieri, PhD, a marriage and family therapist and author of How Can I Help? Your solution: First, recognize that being on vacation doesn't mean that everything is going to be magical, 24/7. Second, pretend you and your guy are hungry, tired toddlers and do what you'd do for them: Find the shade, get a drink, get a snack, and chill out a bit. The break may eat into your itinerary, but preserving the peace and saving your sanity will make the trip a lot more restful than whatever sightseeing you had planned. 'You're on vacation and I'm watching the kids' Sure, your toddler and husband splashing up a storm in the kiddie pool is adorable but right now, all you're aware of is how much your arms ache from carrying all the baby gear, how much time you have before a temper tantrum, and how the kids will possibly sleep in a hotel room that faces the parking lot. How can your guy possibly have the time to play in the pool when you're doing all the work? Most likely, he's clueless about how you're feeling, which is why you need to let him know what's going on, says Patrick Wanis, PhD. "Say that you feel frustrated, exhausted, or overwhelmed and follow up with a few concrete suggestions of how he can help make you feel better." Instead of asking for more help with the kids, tell him that you'd love if he could assist them at dinner, organize their stuff before you head to the beach, or take them for a swim. "Being as specific as possible, as well as communicating with each other about how you both want to relax and enjoy your vacation, makes misunderstandings less likely." Can't we just sleep? You see a king-size bed and think, "ahhh." He sees it and thinks, "aw yeah" or vice versa. For whatever reason, your sex schedules are not syncing up the way they should be, but if he's raring to go, why not consider a quick romp in the hay before crashing?" Rejection can start the weekend off on the wrong note," warns John Wilder, PhD, a relationship therapist. But if all you want to do is hit the sack, let him know you still want him by sharing how excited you are for what will happen the next night... or the next morning. 'We haven't done anything yet' You want to take in the sights, try new experiences, and generally soak up the atmosphere of a new place. He's content chilling out at the resort, kicking back by the pool, and doing the same stuff you could do any old weekend at home.If this sounds familiar, start by figuring out what you want to do and why. Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in what we should do on a trip like hitting all the major museums that we don't allow ourselves to do what we actually want, reminds Ranieri. If sightseeing really matters to you, split up for an afternoon so you both have a chance to do what you like. If you'd rather he join you, explain that it's important to you, then switch off so he gets to decide the itinerary the next day. "A lot of times, couples assume they know what the other wants, but that's not always true, especially on trips, when you're away from familiarity and routine," says Ranieri. "That's why it's essential to let each other know what you want out of the trip." 'I'm not spending that on that' It's vacation! But while you or he has a strict budget in mind, the other is happy to spend with abandon. It's okay to allow a bit more wiggle room than normal when it comes to minor purchases, says Ranieri. If a $6 latte is enough to make you look elsewhere, but your guy wants to stay, in this case, it may be best for you to let it slide. Sure, it's pricey, but the experience, and the fact that it's an irregular occurrence, may be enough to justify the cost. Meanwhile, have whoever's more budget-conscious handle the big expenses, such as travel, hotel, and dinners out. You may have shell out a bit more than you initially anticipated, but you aren't likely to experience over-the-top sticker shock.

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It's not always easy to speak up about the little or big things that bother you about your marriage, but some of this stuff may be on his mind. I want more alone time with her If one of you is more social than the other, you need to actively work to strike the right balance between your personalities.As newlywed Chad L. said, "I would enjoy spending less money on expensive dinners with friends, and more time for just the two of us."Studies show that double dates are beneficial for relationships but not when they come at the expense of alone time." Make sure you're not doing it as a distraction because you're having trouble communicating with each other," says Kara Thompson, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Lenexa, KS. That said, if you're merely desperate for a night out at the end of a long day with the kids and he'd rather not go anywhere after two hours of sitting in traffic, there's no harm in grabbing dinner with a friend and letting him handle homework and dinner duty from time to time. I want to be absolved from most decorating decisions No, your husband doesn't care about every coaster, but be careful not to assume he has no preferences at all. "When I do pipe up and express an opinion like that I really do want the couch with the bigger ottoman it means it really matters to me," said Rob M., who's been married for six years.And remember, saying that whatever wallpaper is fine isn't a signal that he doesn't care what you think. "It just means that issue isn't a priority for him," says Thompson. Consider treating decorating like a money matter, and agreeing that under a certain amount say, $200 you can each make decisions on your own. And if you really do want him to pipe up with an opinion, listen when he does."It's important that you consider it, even if it's not what you wanted to hear," says Thompson. I want another child My wife thinks two kids is enough, but I come from a large, tight-knit family, and it doesn’t feel right for my children not to have more siblings,” says Jeff S., who’s been married for eight years. Differences of opinion on when and if to start a family, not to mention the size of it, can create a huge rift in a relationship, especially since there’s no way to compromise between having one kid and two. If one of you changed your mind about the matter—say, your first pregnancy was really tough and you’re not willing to go through it again—it’s worth scheduling an appointment with a counselor to explore whether there’s any way to get back on the same page. I wish she didn't take my comments about her appearance so personally Some guys really don't notice your new haircut or bathing suit, but others do, and they secretly or openly hate it. "There's a huge difference between complaints about your appearance and genuine criticism about who you are," says Thompson. A complaint, such as preferring your hair blonde, is about a situation. But a criticism is a personal attack for example, your husband saying he won't be attracted to you again until you lose 20 pounds. Complaints are okay. After all, everyone has opinions. But if your husband is picking you apart, that's a red flag, and you should have an honest discussion with him about how it makes you feel, says Thompson. I wish she'd stop trying to change me When we get married, we often hold out hope that some of our partner's habits and qualities will change. It's fair to want to evolve together over the years, but you can't always dictate the terms. "Trying to control everything I do just makes me want to dig in my heels and tune her out even more," says John H., married three years. Often, going into control-freak mode is a sign that you're afraid, says Thompson. If you're able to tap into what's causing that fear, it will be easier to address the root issue, which probably isn't how he organized the pantry."Men want to feel confident in their relationship, and acting overly controlling may leave your husband feeling worthless," says Thompson. want to spend weekend afternoons watching sports We've all heard a resounding "no" at the suggestion of a Saturday field trip to Home Depot and your husband does have a point. Weekends shouldn't be all about crossing everything off your shared to-do list, but that doesn't mean they should be filled with 10 hours of World Cup games either.Just like everything else in a marriage, how you spend your days off needs to be a compromise. Consider piling all the errands into one day, then reserving the other for more relaxing activities. And if you're trying to start a family with a chronic sports-watcher, perhaps share this information: A study published in the "British Journal of Medicine" found that men who watched more than 20 hours of TV a week had about half the sperm count of those who didn't watch any at all. My wife is an absolute slob. I want her to pick up after herself "My side of the bedroom has a couple of things on the nightstand," says Lou A., married 13 years. "Her side is a trail of clothes, books, tissues, plastic shopping bags, old pieces of mail, and magazines. I think the stuff multiplies during the day while we are away. I'm not a nitpicky neat freak, but it drives me nuts."A slob is never going to morph into a butler, but if you tend toward messy, try to limit the piles to certain areas of the house."If you have your own bathroom, keep it however you like," says Thompson. "But if you strew 10 pairs of shoes across the living room right where your husband could trip over them, or leave food out on the counter for days, that's a different story." I want her to stop being such a gossip It's one thing to debate the latest Internet gossip with friends, but it's a whole other to rip apart the people in your inner circle, which can leave your husband worried about what you say when he's not around."If you get into a pattern where you are constantly picking other people apart, ask yourself what you're getting out of it," says Thompson. "A lot of times what we criticize in others is what we don't like about ourselves." Take the opportunity to consider what's irking you and how you can make changes in your own life. If you feel out of shape, join a local running group where you can meet and train with like-minded women. Concerned that your professional skills are out of date? Sign up for a continuing education class at a local college. I wish she didn't spend my money like it grew in trees There are two possible issues here: One is that you're racking up debt and not paying attention. The other is that your husband may be oblivious to the expense of summer camp, violin lessons, and the ER visit required when your son fell out of a tree. In that case, he may think you're being frivolous when you're really trying hard to budget. "In this day and age, both people need to be aware of their exact financial situation," says Thompson. If your husband slips into "his money" terminology, it's time to reframe and modernize the conversation. "The two of you agreed to your financial setup, so the household money is both of yours," adds Thompson. I wish we could sleep in separate bedrooms Wanting to sleep solo has absolutely nothing to do with how hot, wonderful, whatever he thinks you are. Sex and sleep are two entirely different biological functions. "I know it's a terrible thing to say, but I sleep better when I'm in bed alone," says William S., married eight years. "Also, my wife has complained from time to time about my snoring. It just seems that separate bedrooms would make us both happier, and even add a bit of the old dating mystery when we do get together." H e's definitely not alone. A recent anonymous Today.com survey found that 60 percent of people say they sleep better solo. If your sleep situation no longer feels ideal, don't hesitate to speak up. Robert and Cora do have separate bedrooms on "Downton Abbey," after all.

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Growing pains? Totally unnecessary. Getting and keeping long, shiny, sexy hair has never been easier. Cut it more often "The ends of long hair have been styled and colored so many times that they get dry and frizzy quickly," says hairstylist Serge Normant. Ask your stylist to snip less than a half inch every other month (since your hair grows faster than that, you won't lose any real length). If you wait too much longer between cuts, split ends could resplit, which means you'll have to trim away more later on. Care for your scalp Scalp treatments may sound clinical (and a little gross), but massaging a serum (like Kérastase Initialiste) or even a shampoo (try Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy Strong Lengths Nourishing Shampoo) that contains essential oils, such as avocado and coconut, into your roots a few times a week will "nourish the scalp, creating the right foundation for healthier, stronger hair with less breakage," says Francesca Fusco, a dermatologist in New York City. And don't skimp on the massage part aim for a scalp rub that lasts a minute or two: "It stimulates circulation and promotes better scalp health," Fusco says. Cut it right If your hair is in that awkward growing-out stage, ask your stylist for long layers that skim the bottom of your cut. "Long layers in the front give you the illusion of length," says hairstylist Sarah Potempa, who's worked with Julianne Moore and Brooke Shields. If you already have the length, it's sexiest when the back falls into a soft V shape that starts with face-framing layers at your cheekbones (to thin a round face) or chin (to soften a square jaw). From there, you want blended layers down to the ends. Your ends should come to a gradual point in the middle of your back. "The shape and layers keep thick hair from looking heavy on the bottom and add body to fine hair," adds Potempa. Dry shampoo and dry conditioner Yes, dry conditioner is a thing and you'll be happy that you know about it on day three of a blowout. Your ends start to look dry right around the same time your roots get oily. Spritz a dry conditioner, like Oribe Soft Dry Conditioner Spray, over your length but never the crown, and focus on the ends to make them shiny and soft. As for dry shampoo, it's a lot easier on hair than cleaning the old-school way, which strips away natural oils along with dirt. Mist it on your roots and massage it into your hair with your fingertips. Then do the same thing on the pieces around your face. "Long hair is so heavy that it gets weighed down easily, and the dry shampoo will also add volume," says Normant. Add color It's no secret that long gray hair looks a little nutso. But long hair that's all one nongray color isn't so pretty, either: "Without subtle highlights, really long hair looks too heavy and solid like a blanket," says hairstylist Garren. "If you're growing your hair out, you want your ends to be lightest. Ask for balayage so highlights will look more natural as they grow out," adds Matt Fugate, a hairstylist at Sally Hershberger Downtown in New York City. Avoid topknots Sorry, but "when you've got a ton of hair, a big knot isn't proportional to your face," says Garren. "The ideal spot for a bun or chignon is at the nape of your neck anything in between there and the crown looks matronly." Give it a boost Long hair is heavy. "Without a volumizer, the roots will fall flat," says Normant. After every shampoo, massage an apricot-size dollop of lightweight mousse (we like Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Wild Ginger Hydrocream Whip) into the roots while they're damp to give hair some lift without turning it crunchy even if your hair is thick and you've never needed to use a volumizer before. Skip the strong stuff, though. "Strong-hold styling products actually weigh down long hair," says Fugate. Prevent split-ends in your sleep Satin and 600-thread-count Egyptian-cotton pillowcases create less friction than ordinary cotton ones, so your hair will be less likely to tangle or break when you toss and turn. Another option: Tie your hair into a loose loop on the very top of your head with a scarf or scrunchie. (Yup, they still exist, and they don't stress or crease your hair the way elastics can.) Less is more It doesn't take that much effort to make all that hair look good. In fact, you can get away with blow-drying just your volumizer-coated roots as long as you mist the ends with a texturizing spray, such as Sally Hershberger Glam Waves. Unless your hair air-dries perfectly straight or wavy (and you're a Disney princess), that beachy wave makes all the difference. "A natural texture that's neither straight nor wavy can appear too flat and messy," says Potempa. Take a pill Models take biotin and Viviscal for more luscious hair like it's their job. And it kind of is. And it kind of works. "Certain supplements really do promote hair growth, and the B vitamin biotin is one of my favorites," says Fredric Brandt, a dermatologist in New York City and Miami. You would have to take 5,000 micrograms (some pills contain that amount) a day for about three to six months before you'd notice a difference, but "studies have shown that biotin elongates the hair follicle, which makes hair grow faster. It also stimulates the cells that cause your hair to grow," says Brandt. The clinical studies on Viviscal, a brand of vitamin that contains amino acids and marine extracts, are less conclusive, but the anecdotal evidence is emphatic. "I believe in Viviscal," says Garren. "I've seen it give women who are in their 40s or 50s and experiencing thinning noticeably thicker hair."

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Real husbands reveal the magic words and our experts share why they work so darn well. by Anna Davies {none} "This puts the focus back on your partner," says Julie Hanks, LCSW, owner and executive director at Wasatch Family Therapy in Orem, UT. "You show you're committed to fixing the problem, rather than engaging in an all-out battle."Video: How to deal with your in-laws {none} It doesn't matter if you'd rather watch "Game of Thrones" or even a funny cat video on YouTube a statement like this can do wonders for a disagreement that's bound to take a long time to untangle (think: starting the house-hunting process or figuring out tax stuff). But make sure you do come back to the issue after the much-needed break, preferably setting a time to make sure it actually gets done, says Hanks.More: The 20 best things you can do for your relationship {none} This simple nonconfrontational phrase helps clarify where, exactly, you disagree. "In an argument, it's easy for partners to be on entirely different pages without realizing it," says Hanks. "This gets you back on track to figuring out a solution." {none} It may sound like you're wiggling your way out of the argument, but you're also reminding your guy that despite disagreements, you're still on his side, says New York-based relationship expert Gilda Carle, Ph.D. "Plus, if it gets you both to laugh, you'll feel more connected, and that's a win for everyone." {none} Thinking of something you overcame together a bad vacation, bad clams, whatever serves as an instant reminder that, no matter what, you're a team. Plus, bringing up a ridiculous memory may get you to laugh, which will help diffuse the anger, says Carle. {none} It's not giving in to say you want to quit bickering; it's recognizing that your relationship is more important than whatever the argument is. If you're fighting about something that truly doesn't matter say, a tiff about driving directions or which restaurant to head to simply saying you want to let it go can be the most effective tool in your arsenal, say Charles and Elizabeth Schmitz, relationship experts and authors of "Building a Love That Lasts: The Seven Surprising Secrets of Successful Marriage". "Forgiving, forgetting, and moving on is the cornerstone of a successful marriage," they explain. {none} Yes, it's a stalling tactic, but suggesting a cup of joe also reminds both of you that you may be on edge because you're hungry or tired, says Carle. Obviously, if it's an important issue, you've got to talk it through a latte can't cure all but you may find that a jolt of caffeine can provide a necessary moment of pause, even stopping minor arguments before they blossom. {none} On-the-road disagreements that spiral into all-out fights aren't fun, but the cutesy terminology can be instantly calming because it reminds you what you're dealing with: being trapped in an enclosed space with someone else who might be equally cranky and exhausted. If you find yourselves frequently arguing at the same time or around the same issue, recognize the pattern and name it. This not only allows you to check yourselves, but it's also another strategy to simultaneously lighten the mood and underscore the fact that, despite everything, you're still on the same side, says Hanks.

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Women make up one-quarter of heart attack patients among people who are relatively young, but fare worse afterward than their male counterparts women have longer hospital stays on average, and they are more likely than men to die in the hospital after a heart attack, according to a new study. The researchers also found that over the past decade, heart attack hospitalization rates for younger patients (under age 55) have not declined as quickly as they have for patients in older age groups. To look at trends in heart attacks among relatively young people, the researchers analyzed data from more than 230,000 hospitalizations for heart attacks in patients ages 30 to 54. The data was reported in a U.S. national database from 2001 to 2010. They found that the number of hospitalizations for heart attacks among women increased from 28,681 (which means 56 per 100,000 people) in 2001, to 31,777 (61 per 100,000) in 2010. Men's rate of hospitalization was much higher, but in contrast to the increase seen in women, men's hospitalizations for heart attacks decreased over the study period, from 87,084 (174 per 100,000) to 86,734 (171 per 100,000). [ Beyond Vegetables and Exercise: 5 Ways to be Heart Healthy ] The researchers also found that women hospitalized after a heart attack had higher rates of dying in the hospital than men did. However, women's mortality rates decreased from 3.3 percent to 2.3 percent over the 10 years of the study, whereas men's mortality rates remained unchanged, at around 2 percent, according to the study published today (July 21) in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. In a previous study looking at people older than 65, the researchers found a 20 percent drop in hospitalization rates for heart attacks between 2001 and 2010. The new study shows that younger patients didn't experience the same decline in hospitalization rates. "This trend suggests we need to raise awareness of the importance of controlling cardiovascular risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure and smoking in younger patients," said study researcher Dr. Aakriti Gupta, an internal medicine resident at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. However, the researchers noted that because heart disease at younger ages is more strongly influenced by genetic factors, changes in lifestyle factors might not lower hospitalization rates as much as they have in older people. Among all patients in the study, there were increases in the rates of medical conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes. The researchers found that women with heart attacks were more likely than male patients to have other medical conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes and heart failure. The findings suggest that younger women may benefit even more than men from aggressive efforts to control their risk factors for heart disease , which include early identification and treatment of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking and diabetes, the researchers said. Email Bahar Gholipour or follow her @alterwired . Follow Live Science @livescience , Facebook & Google+ . Originally published on Live Science . 7 Ways to Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease 10 Do's and Don'ts to Reduce Your Risk of Cancer 10 Fitness Apps: Which Is Best for Your Personality?

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What's the quickest, easiest makeover you can do? Paint your front door in one of these delicious colors. Red "There's something about a red door that says, 'Come in. Good things are inside.' It's very joyful and welcoming, and gutsy at the same time. You're drawn to this red. You can't resist. I'd describe it as scarlet with a hint of terra-cotta. It would make a great toenail polish." Raun ThorpPratt & Lambert Redseal Scarlet O'Hara 1870 Bright green "This is the color of a fresh-cut lawn, frozen peas, or Kermit the Frog. It's bright, not acidy, and would give a lift to clapboard siding or brick. I see an antique boot-scraper, like one of those long cast-iron dachshunds, in front of it. And don't bother with any of those potted plants that inevitably wilt. This green is all the life you need." Harry HeissmannBenjamin Moore Grand Entrance Sullivan Green 560 Gray-blue "I recently repainted my front door in a steely gray-blue a lake blue using a marine-quality enamel paint so shiny it looks wet. It's the perfect complement to my sand-color stucco house. Sand and water great imagery for the humid Houston climate. Serendipitously, it also looks good with my collection of antique delftware on the hall table." Ann WolfFine Paints of Europe Hollandlac 9225 Dark gray "To stand out or not to stand out, that was the question. We opted for the latter approach and went with a rich, harmonious neutral, a dark greenish gray that felt more appropriate for our rather traditional neighborhood. It's also the perfect background for seasonal wreaths or colorful planters." Birch CoffeyBenjamin Moore Regal Select Mohegan Sage 2138-30 Citrus green "Before you even enter a house, the front door tells a story about who lives inside. This citrusy green is not a self-effacing color. It says, 'I'm confident. I'm a style-setter.' In the bright California sun, it feels fresh and happy. Add some terra-cotta pots with hot pink bougainvillea, because pink and green are so beautiful together." Heidi BonesteelDunn-Edwards Evershield Citron DE5473 Purple-blue "Whenever I travel to London and Paris, I'm always wowed by the dynamite blue doors on all the toniest townhouses. I love the full range of blues, but I think my favorite is this deep purple-blue with a hint of smoky gray. It looks particularly rich in a superhigh sheen with a bold brass door knocker." Molly LuetkemeyerSydney Harbour Paints Aqua Gloss Enamel Deep Sea Black-green "I like dark trim on houses. But instead of just being black, this is a black-green, which is softer and prettier. It's also neutral, so it will work with anything you put in the foyer. Most people forget to think about how the color will look in the room, when the door is open. This has the same monochromatic, graphic quality as the silver tea paper on the walls and the faux-zebra rug." Jan ShowersBenjamin Moore Impervo Black Forest Green EXT. RM Sage-gray "Think of this as a Belgian gray, one of those moody colors. Sometimes it looks gray, sometimes sage, and at other times brown. It reminds me of wet cement, particularly when done in lacquer. It would be very handsome paired with chic brass fittings and a limestone surround." Robert BrownC2 Paint Premium Exterior Woodpecker C386 Brown "This is a dramatic, deeply nuanced brown more chocolate than espresso with pink and red undertones. Like chocolate, it pairs well with so many things, from brick to stone. It would look fantastic with grayish-blue or burnished red trim. And imagine the flowers you could plant alongside it heathery purples, pinks, and chartreuse." Martin HornerBenjamin Moore Aura Wenge AF-180 Blue-green "Somewhere between green and a more classical Palladian blue, this brought a breath of fresh air to a wonderful old house. Colors can be tricky outdoors and many come off as too bright. But this has just enough punch and stands proudly against the limestone front porch. Two white-blooming jasmine trees in lead containers were the final touch." Matthew CarterBenjamin Moore Impervex Covington Blue HC-138 Light blue "This blue, with a touch of periwinkle, would make a door feel cheerful no matter the weather outside. As for finishes, the only one we ever do on front doors is high-gloss enamel. It looks newer longer, it's easier to keep clean, and it's also the best backdrop for a polished metal knocker and doorknob." Julie KleinerFarrow & Ball Exterior Full Gloss Lulworth Blue 89 Orange "We wanted to bring that funky 1960s vibe back to a Palm Springs house, so we replaced the 1980s 'Southwestern' door with a flat, midcentury-modern door and painted it orange. Finding a bright enough orange was surprisingly hard, but we did it. Now, as you're landing at the nearby airport, you can actually see the front door from the plane!" Brian DittmarBenjamin Moore Advance Electric Orange 2015-10

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Cheer up your bedroom with inspiration from these fun, imaginative spaces. Peaceful Orange and Aqua Designer John Willey designed a Nantucket house "to be a bright, cheery departure from the usual Nantucket blue and white interior." For a guest room, Willey took a 1960s color combination -- aqua and orange -- and updated it. "In a white-on-white home I think, 'Where's the joy?' I feel contained like I'm in some fancy retail store," he says. "I love the surprises, the little laughs, the shades of color that reflect the personality of the owners." Walls are Benjamin Moore's Lido Green. The Straw Woven throw and Maharaja Golden bolster are by John Robshaw. Orange Accents Warm, coppery orange, owner Ann Leggett's favorite color, prevails in the master bedroom in a New Orleans cottage. "Orange is warm and bright, and those attributes, to me, equal happiness," designer Susan Noble Jones. Raso quilted cotton coverlet from Bellino Fine Linens; table lamp from Sunbelt Lighting. Cheerful Art The master bedroom in a Scarsdale, New York, house has neutral colors with purple and blue accents. An abstract painting, "looks like the sun rising. Waking up happy is what this master bedroom is all about," designer Pat Healing says. Groovy Harmony "This room was actually fun from the start," Katie Maine of Maine Design says of the space in a Newport Beach, California house. "It would have been a sad little attic-like space if we didn't make an effort to turn it into a super-groovy teenage girl's room. To make the room seem bright, we added skylights and printed the wallpaper on Mylar to reflect the light around." The loft bedroom is swathed in Brunschwig's Bombay wallpaper, custom-printed on Mylar. Bed and canopy by Maine Design. Vintage suzani bedcovering from Yurdan. Moravian star light, Visual Comfort. Cheerful Green Designer Lindsay Coral Harper gave a more youthful and upbeat appearance to a dated 1940s suburban house in Charlotte, North Carolina. She painted the guest room a vibrant color, Benjamin Moore's Stem Green. "It immediately made this simple little space so happy," she says. Coastal Colors "That's true robin's egg blue on the walls," designer Jacqueline Derry Segura says of this master bedroom in Long Island. "You know what? It's all very classic and optimistic. The people who live here are happy and positive. It's a calm, happy, light-filled home with colors reminiscent of the sea." The custom-designed carpet is from Patterson, Flynn & Martin. The custom headboard is covered in ivory leather from Edelman. Stools at the foot of the bed are from Evergreen and covered in Rogers and Goffigon fabric. Subtle Shimmer Designer Allison Caccoma gave the master bedroom walls a high-gloss pale blue color. The designer wanted to capture the Connecticut house's view of the Long Island Sound and the sparkle of the water. "I love a little shimmer," she says. "I think sparkle in a room, even when it's subtle, adds a special happiness." The color -- Benjamin Moore's Harbor Haze -- also freshens up a very traditional floral headboard. The Garden Effect Here's fabric-driven decor at its splashiest — an entire master bedroom in a Wisconson lake cottage worked around Carleton V's exuberant floral print, Rhodendron. "We used it for the drama of the overscale floral print," designer Carleton Varney says. "There's a big punch in it. It's so happy." The reversible quilt is Carleton V's Rossway in two colorways, soft red and green. The painted green Lisle headboard in pistachio is from Ficks Reed. The soft yellow walls are Pale Hound by Farrow & Ball. Alexis lamp in cardinal from Pottery Barn. Stripes and Whimsical Fabrics "The printed fabric in the guest bedroom is whimsical," designer Meg Braff says of an East Hampton home, "but the beige and aqua palette is very restful." The designer also added bold stripes to make it even more interesting. "The bold stripes give the bedroom a whimsical feel," she says. Bed and curtain fabric is Lyford Background in Inca Gold on White, by China Seas. Wallpaper is Millennium Stripe in Beige and White, by First Editions. Ottomans are by Jonathan Adler. Springtime Year-Round "Fresh, bright, and happy" is how designer Alessandra Branca describes the master bedroom in Chicago. "You're walking down the hall and suddenly everything changes when you get to the master bedroom," she says. "It's springtime! This couple wakes up to spring every single day, even on the coldest morning. Isn't that wonderful?" Walls are upholstered in Schumacher's silk Lucienne Damask and bed canopy curtains are Grey Watkins Riviera Stripe. Antique glass lamps are on vintage ebonized Jansen bedside tables.

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Nothing says "welcome" like a great guest bed. Ten designers show us how they treat their visitors to a good night's sleep. Restful retreat "My guest room is a respite from the visual stimulation of the world. I purposely kept the room free of extraneous decoration. The subtle tonalities wash your senses clean. I even sleep in here myself when I need a refresh." Barbara Barry Luxe details "To be honest, I don't think I had visitors in mind when I designed my guest room, but rather my own desires. The mattress is extremely comfortable, and the sheets are as nice as the ones on our own bed. There's enough light to read by, with a side table where you can rest a book and your glasses." Robert Couturier Exotic details "I found the carved antique Indian columns on eBay years ago. The pleated wall is padded, so guests can lean back against it, and I hung a reading light on the inside of one column, knowing that my mother loves to read in bed." Lisa Hilderbrand Cozy "I call this the milk-carton room because it's as tall as it is wide. The four-poster tester bed makes the room feel even more intimate, which imparts some coziness for guests." Bill Ingram Comfortable bedding "To me, the best guest beds have crisp ironed sheets, a soft comforter, and cozy blankets. But, as a friend warned me years ago, don't make your guests too comfortable…." FLORENCE DE DAMPIERRE Royalty-inspired "All the cushions make this 19th-century French piece a very comfy daybed, but take those off, and it's an instant place for guests. It once belonged to the famous arts patron Jane Engelhard and was used by the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, so we like to say our guests sleep like royalty!" Thomas Jayne Garden feel "This daybed in our sunroom serves as a guest bed when we have a full house. Friends and family fight over this spot. It feels as if you're sleeping in the garden." Lewin Wertheimer Stylish twin beds "I always planned to have a pair of twin beds in this room. These look like antiques, but they're reproductions that I based on a Directoire daybed. They're slightly wider and longer than standard twins, and the custom mattresses are fantastic. Even couples request this room!" Brian J. McCarthy Updated childhood bed "This was actually my childhood bed a Christmas gift accompanied by a room full of pink Laura Ashley flora. Now the look is more sophisticated: white bedding edged with gray stitching, plus a chic animal print for some punch." Ginger Brewton Well-made linens "I love fine white linens and collect them wherever I can. I found the ones on my guest bed at a Tel Aviv flea market, improbably enough. They were originally from Russia." Kika Schoenfeld

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Let's be honest. The true fashion lover covets all things luxe; here are gifts she's sure to adore (and didn't even know she wanted). Plus, see more holiday gift guides. A Colorful Array of Clutches Prada clutch, $550, select Prada boutiques, prada.com. A Cuff Above Hermes cuff, $2,000, hermes.com. Travel in Style Tod's suitcase, $3,025, 212-644-5945. Color-blocking For Your Feet Vionnet pumps, $695, mytheresa.com. First Class Travel Fendi bicycle, $9,995, 212-759-4646. The "It" Fur Michael Kors jacket, $2,995, 800-465-7989. Sleepwear for Day & Night Piamita pajamas, $510 each, barneys.com. A Teal Topper Gucci fedora, $495, net-a-porter.com. Capture the Light Field Lytro cameras, $399-$499 each, lytro.com. Tropical Paradise Stella McCartney top, $985, 212-255-1556. Dapper Slippers Christian Louboutin, $995-$1,295, net-a-porter.com. Hand-held Houndstooth Yves Saint Laurent clutch, $1,095, ysl.com. A Chic Move Asprey chess set, $3,900, 212-688-1811. Sleek Boots for a Rainy Day Marc by Marc Jacobs rain boots, $330, ssense.com. The Ultimate in Luxury Chanel Watch, $9,900, 800-550-0005. Funny Sunnies Thierry Lasry sunglasses, $425 each, net-a-porter.com. Heavenly Knits Missoni hat and gloves, $105 and $145, mytheresa.com. Snake Charmer Lanvin boots, $3,445, net-a-porter.com Hunting Games Burberry jacket, $2,995, net-a-porter.com. Sparkly Finger Armor Loree Rodkin ring, $23,000, net-a-porter.com. Megabytes, Mega Sparkle Jimmy Choo iPad case, $495, saks.com. Sleek Soundsystem Soundfreaq Sound Platform Ghost, ($199) soundfreaq.com. Vanity Case Bond No. 9 perfume, $1,000, saks.com. Haute Fur Gilet Adrienne Landau vest, $395, farfetch.com.

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On a budget? These fun and functional cooking utensils won't break the bank. Whisk A colorful, collapsible nylon whisk that fits neatly in a drawer when not in use. Available in eight colors. Beater, $18. normann-copenhagen.com Sponges Waverly, the textile company, has a way with pattern. Now, let their designs spruce up your kitchen sink. Scrubber Sponges, $5 for pack of three. waverly.com French Press The classic coffee maker in a fresh green. Brazil French Press, $20. bodum.com Bamboo Cutlery Eco-friendly and colorful, too. Three-piece colored utensil set, $15. corebamboo.com Straws A metal straw makes a cold drink feel even more deliciously frosty. Stainless Steel Straws. $18 for 6. brookfarmgeneralstore.com. Grater It grates in both directions -- and it features those super-sharp edges that Microplane is known for. Artisan Series Ribbon Grater, $10. microplane.com Cake Server A streamlined way to serve dessert -- just press down, squeeze gently, life, and move to the plate with one easy-to-use tool. Cake server, $19. urban-butik.com Oven Thermometer Here's a thermometer you can actually read: Frosted glass lets light shine through from the oven. Good Grips Oven Thermometer, $15. oxo.com Straining Ladle More sauce, less meat? No problem with this combination ladle and strainer. Martha Stewart Collection at Macy's Straining Ladle, $19. macys.com Utensils Stir, scoop, spread, and serve with these dual-ended silicone tools -- why let one end go to waste? In seven wake-up-your-kitchen colors. Switchits, $10 each. chefn.com

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Create a space for kids and adults to cook, chat, and congregate with these designer tips. Create two rooms in one The kitchen in this Bridgehampton, New York, home blends seamlessly with the family room. "I wanted an all-purpose room rather than a traditional kitchen," designer Eldon Wong says. "I wanted it to look more like a family room. The idea was, let's make this a multifunctional space that we can use 24/7. It's all about being with friends, cooking, gabbing, watching TV." A stainless-steel Sub Zero 601R and a Bosch dishwasher are practically the only visible appliances in this kitchen, furnished with wicker chairs from Restoration Hardware, a vintage settee, and a coffee table from Pier 1. Harry Bertoia barstools from Knoll pull up to an island made from vintage drafting tables. Keep it organized In her Ridgewood, New Jersey, kitchen, Nicole Hough designed the kitchen to fit with the period of the house while updating it with modern conveniences to make it family-friendly and highly organized. A built-in armoire has a bottom row of drawers for kids' stuff, a kitchen island offers ample seating, and pots are easily accessible since they're hung on either side of the stove. Try slipcovers Designer Megan Rice Yager created a cozy family gathering spot in her Sun Valley, Idaho, house. "Those chairs were a gift from my mother-in-law, and my husband remembers them from his childhood," she says. "I needed to make them work in this context, so I had blue linen slipcovers made. Now they're more kid-friendly." Reproduction French farm table from Charles & Charles. Chairs slipcovered in Pindler & Pinder's Tyrone Irish linen. Hanging lamp from Lars Bolander. Add a blackboard A blackboard in a kitchen makes it easy to write down reminders, grocery lists, or even an inspirational quote for everyone to see, such as this one, in Marin County, California, weekend house designed by Kim Dempster and Erin Martin. Subway tiles by Heath Ceramics. Gemini ceiling lights from Alfa. Paint is Benjamin Moore's Snow on the Mountain. Appreciate imperfections The kitchen of this New York home is "command central of a very active household," designer Robin Bell says. Carrara marble and maple butcher-block countertops add an old-fashioned, settled look. "They're porous, so time and wear will inevitably confer imperfections, your family's history in stains and rings. Treasure them!" she says. Add a little color "The owners didn't want a white kitchen, but they want it to be a bright, interesting room — the whole family spends a lot of time here," designer Nancy Boszhardt says about her clients with two teenage daughters. To give the Westchester, New York, Tudor personality, she painted the kitchen cabinets a light sand color and the large island a dark midnight blue to help it recede. The hood was designed by architect Radoslav Opacic. Countertops are Jerusalem Gold limestone slab. Custom barstools are upholstered in Brunschwig & Fils leather. Faucet from P.E. Guerin. Try kids'-height furniture In this Hewlett, New York, kitchen, designer Dionne Trifiro added a baking stand from Smallbone. "I'll often tuck marble into a place where there's not so much traffic," she says. "The big square drawer has stainless-steel inserts for flour and sugar, and the lower level is just the right height for little helpers." Raised kitchen cabinets Raised cabinets from Smallbone in this New York kitchen make for easy cleaning. Designer Eric Cohler says it didn't take much to convince his clients to install them. "They have two dogs and children constantly in and out of the apartment. And this is a family in New York that actually cooks!"

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Just because you have kids doesn't mean you have to give up your design style. We asked top interior designers for ideas on how they create a space that's both sophisticated and sippy-cup friendly. {none} Frame ItChildren's art projects are given the artist treatment with frames in this Park Avenue apartment's kitchen. "I thought the apartment should reflect the fact that it's for a young, modern family with three adolescents and a broad, cosmopolitan view of the world," says designer Eric Cohler. "We wanted it to be open, bright, fresh - everything it wasn't." A David Weeks lighting fixture animates the corner. {none} Consider an Open Floor PlanDesigners Barbara Westbrook and Kim Winkler opened the kitchen of an Atlanta house to the family room. "The space had to accommodate a family of five, as well as a lovable golden retriever, Westbrook says. "The openness makes it easy for everyone to mingle and not feel separated. But it was important that the two rooms look coordinated." They chose a neutral and white palette, with a mix of rustic antiques and unfussy contemporary pieces. {none} Add Some Words of WisdomIn the dining area of a beach house in Marin County, California, designer Erin Martin and owner Kim Dempster added an inspiration quote on the wall: "The pieces of a ship taken by themselves will sink. But when combined together, will take you anywhere you want to go." "For me, it's about family and loving one another, no matter what life brings you," Martin says. "It's something we know in our heart and soul, but we need to be reminded occasionally." Shaw ceiling lights from Urban Electric Co. hang over an antique trestle table, paired with vintage captain's chairs. A banquette, with more storage underneath, doubles as a guest bed. {none} Use an Outdoor Rug IndoorsThere's no rule that says outdoor rugs can't be used indoors, too. They're easy to clean just hose down and dry in the sun. Another option is to use a rug that's meant for high-traffic areas. For a San Francisco house designed by Ken Fulk, "I wanted the house to be family-friendly in every sense of the word whether that means a cousin visiting, kids in the dining room, or a dog from the neighborhood walking through," Fulk says. "So I used this rug, Leopard Cub by Stark. It's a Mack truck of a carpet. I have the same rug in my own house, where we have three big, hairy golden retrievers who are always coming in with muddy paws." {none} Choose Durable Materials"With four young children, durability in the family room was key for the owners," designer Meg Braff says of this East Hampton, New York, house. "The dark blue on the sofas, the leather ottoman, and the sisal rug are practically bulletproof." The sofa is upholstered in Hinson's Rawlston in Dunham Blue. Walls are covered in Africa Raffia in Key West Teal by Phillip Jeffries. The Farra Cocktail ottoman is by Hickory Chair; table lamp is by Christopher Spitzmiller. {none} Lighten Up"Everyone thinks a family room needs to have dark upholstery because it's where the kids hang out, but I didn't want to go too far with this camel color," designer Pat Healing of this family room in Scarsdale, New York. Only the cushions of the custom U-shaped sectional are covered in Holland & Sherry's Rive Gauche mohair. The frame is upholstered in Dedar's Giulio Cesare. Light-colored pillows brighten it up even more, and can easily be switched out or cleaned. {none} Pull Up a PoufThe Moroccan poufs in this Strathmere, New Jersey, beach house are a signature for designer Mona Ross Berman, who uses them a lot in her work. "They make great extra seating, especially for kids," Berman says. "And here, they give you a chance to get a shot of leather into the room." The curtain and blue pillow fabrics are from Duralee's Seaglass Elements print collection, orange pillows are Meloire Reverse by Quadrille, and the yellow pillow is Arcadia Sulphur by Raoul Textiles. {none} Don't Stick with Pink or BlueKids' rooms should be colorful, but they don't have to be girly pink or boyish blue," designer Todd Nickey says. For the boy's room in this California house by designers Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe, Weego Baby furniture was painted yellow to coordinate with Cath Kidston's Cowboy wallpaper and a vintage circus-sign light. {none} Display Books Like ArtA built-in bed and curtains create a private, magical room at the top of a staircase that serves as the children's reading room and doubles as a guest room for sleepovers. Shelves are designed to display book covers. "So many covers have great graphic images," Wolf says. "This way you can have a changing art gallery on your shelves." {none} Create a Place to PlaySince the kids who live in this Los Angeles home love to play pianos and put on plays, designer Windsor Smith gave them a home theater with Gemini Silk Plaid stage curtains from Brunschwig & Fils.

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The food we serve, the dishes we use, the things we do...on this day, it's all about the comfort of customs. Here, designers, authors, event planners, and a chef share how they celebrate Thanksgiving. Turkey Plates "I have a small set of transferware turkey plates from my grandmother that I pull out when I'm feeling nostalgic especially if my mother is coming. They're not chic, but they are very homey." Carolyne Roehm, Author, Flowers Spode Woodland Turkey Platter, $150. replacements.com. Cast-Iron Pot "I'm the go-to turkey guy. Usually I brine in a cast-iron pot, anything from a nice Le Creuset to an inexpensive canning pot. But last year, my turkey was so obscenely big a 30-pounder that I ran to Home Depot for a plastic barrel!" Nathan Turner, Interior Designer Goose Pot, $575. lecreuset.com. After-Meal Walk "I love the long, restorative walk we take at dusk. We call it 'Boots,' after one particularly muddy outing a decade ago. Some grown people smoke cigars, other small ones are towed in a little red wagon. Eating, rest for an hour, then: 'Boots!'" Sam Sifton, Author, Thanksgiving: How to Cook It Well Original Tall Leather Lined Rain Boots in Vintage Green, $225. usa.hunter-boot.com. Kids' Table "I love setting a beautiful table for the under-13 set, complete with See's chocolate turkeys for place cards." Danielle Rollins, Author, Soirée: Entertaining with Style Milk Chocolate Turkeys, $15 for three. sees.com. Copper Cups "We go to my husband's family's farm in North Carolina, where we end the evening with a big bonfire by the lake. We drink red wine or bourbon warmed up in old farm-ish copper cups and tell stories about the people who aren't with us anymore." Amanda Nisbet, Interior Designer Moscow Mule Mug, $40. redenvelope.com. Cider "We always start with hot cups of cider infused with cinnamon, orange, cloves, and allspice spiked with a jigger of rum for the adults. After a few sips, everyone is perfectly relaxed and thankful to be together." Annie Falk, Event Planner Mulling Spices, $13. williams-sonoma.com. Oven-to-Table "It's very oven-to-table here I use my red ramekin-style pie dishes and bring everything out warm." Amy Atlas, Event Planner Pie Dish in Cerise, $45. emilehenryusa.com. Pumpkin Soup "I always serve a traditional spiced pumpkin soup. A soup can be left to simmer on the stove until you're ready to sit down, so it gives you flexibility. That peace of mind goes a long way especially for a host with so many dishes to prepare and serve hot!" Colin Cowie, Event Planner Soup Tureen in Dune Blue, $850. bernardaud.fr.. Festive Centerpiece "I make a centerpiece of harvest bounty: broccoli, squash, cauliflower, persimmon, pomegranate, quince, and apples. It's definitely a conversation starter, and it all can be used later." Lidia Bastianich, Chef/Restaurateur Feather Hats "At my mom's house, we have a hokey tradition of wearing feather hats, or at least placing them on the table and seeing who has enough wine to put one on. The most intimate moments are when everyone feels right being silly." Celerie Kemble, Interior Designer

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Who didn't want a bunk bed when they were growing up? Kids will love these designs and maybe even adults, too! Lattice Detail Sally Markham designed a lattice railing for the girls' bunk beds in a Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, house, painting the insides of the circle Benjamin Moore's Peacock Blue. Nautical The bunk room feels like a ship's cabin and is lined with six bunks, four on one side and two on the other in a Marin County, California, house designed by Erin Martin and owner Kim Dempster. Grommets on the curtains are meant to evoke bubbles. The brass porthole mirror was in Dempster's house when she was a child. Playful In a New Jersey beach house decorated by Mona Ross Berman, Katie Ridder's Beetlecat wallpaper gives the boys' room a playful but "not overly cute" feel. Wabi-Sabi Bunk beds for the children leave more room to play in a Japanese-inspired Los Angeles house designed by Pamela Shamshiri of Commune Design. Colorful Beyond the boys' room in a Menlo Park, California, house decorated by Matthew Leverone, the coverlets and bunk beds are from Pottery Barn Kids. Bedroom walls in Benjamin Moore Aura in Steel Blue. Built-In In designer Nicolette Horn's island-inspired Oslo, Norway, house, built-in bunk beds in son Frederik's room save space. Bold Patterns A Dutch door opens to the kitchen and a children's bunk room beyond in a Balboa Island, California, house decorated by Krista Ewart. Stripes, polka dots, and big blue whales are a surprisingly compatible mix. Modern On the lower level of a North Carolina house designed by architect Ruard Veltman, a boy's bedroom features a pair of custom-made modern bunk beds without ladders children climb up the brackets. Philippe Starck Ghost chair by Kartell.

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Send college kids back to campus with dorm decor that's stylish and affordable, too. {none} Throw BlanketsThe perfect accessory for a nap break after an all-night study session. Geo Throws, $20 each. target.com. {none} TraysA fun geometric shape for your desk organize everything from pens and pencils to little trinkets. Purchase a few in different sizes and create your own configuration. Kaleido Trays, starts at $16. aplusrstore.com. {none} LampsEveryone knows dorm room lighting is notoriously bad. This LED lamp is the perfect solution. You can even power it through a USB port, so it's perfect if your room doesn't have a lot of outlets. Harte Work Lamp, $20. ikea.com. {none} Storage BinsStash clothes, shoes, and more in these classic-striped bins. Striped Storage Bins, $17. homegoods.com for locations. {none} Colored PencilsA festive pencil set lets you take color-coordinated notes with flair. Banderole Pencil Set, $12. anthropologie.com. {none} Laundry BagYou won't confuse your hamper with someone else's with this bright yellow design. Yellow Laundry Bag, $20. crateandbarrel.com. {none} RugThis striped pattern will add a fun punch of graphic pattern to any room. Colorstep Stripe Cotton Dhurrie Rug, $19. westelm.com. {none} CordsGraphic cables keep computers, phones, and other tech gear organized and tangle-free. Collective Cables, 3'L, starts at $14. easterncollective.com. {none} Pink Haze by Alicia BockForget clichéd posters. Decorate walls instead with an original signed photo by artist Alicia Bock. $19 for a 5" square. aliciabockgallery.com. {none} LinersInstantly update your standard-issue dresser with drawer liners in bold chevron. Macbeth Collection Aqua Chevron Shelf Liners, $15. surlatable.com.

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Organizing expert Julie Morgenstern shares 10 tips for cleaning out your closet. Write everything down on paper When cleaning out your closet, begin by writing everything down on paper. This will help speed up and simplify the process. Ask yourself, "What are my favorite clothes?" When tossing items, refer to your list. Consider a charity Before you start cleaning your closet, decide who will get the castoffs. Knowing that your clothes are going to a favorite charity or homeless shelter is a goal that you can feel good about. Decide if it's a keeper Ask yourself these questions: Do I love it? Is it flattering? Is it the image I want to project? If it's a "yes" to all three, then it's a keeper. Splurge on matching hangers Invest in matching wooden or padded hangers and quality containers. Keep calm and carry on When you're 3/4 of the way through clearing your closet, you may begin to get overwhelmed by the space (What am I going to do without my stuff?). Remind yourself that you are who you are, not what you own. Get through the panic and you'll experience calm and relief. Stagger shoes You'll fit more shoes on your shelves if you store pairs with the right and left shoe facing opposite directions...one facing toe front and the other facing heel front. Knowing when to toss it When debating about an item, ask yourself: Which is more valuable? The item or the cleared space? To determine if something is a personal treasure, ask yourself: Is this the best reminder of that particular time in my life or person I knew? If not, then toss it. Small-space solutions If you have an older home with narrow closets that are not deep enough for hangers, you actually have three creative options. First is that you can hang hooks along the back, and hang clothes (or handbags) on the hooks. Second is to install shelves from top to bottom, and use the closet for folded clothing, bags, or shoes. Finally, if the closet extends behind the door frame, on either or both sides of the doorjamb, install short poles on the inside right and left of the closet (from front to back, rather than the long way from side to side). This creates hanging space you access by almost "walking in" to the closet and turning to the side. Don't forget to decorate! Adding a mirror, a piece of framed art, painting, or hanging wallpaper are all wonderful ways to add panache, elegance, and delight to your closet. If you have the extra room, try adding a piece of antique furniture. Stay away from dried flowers, books, and stuffed animals, which all collect dust that will make your clothes feel less fresh.

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It's not the typical white. Modern hues such as bold yellow, brilliant blue, or burnt orange will really energize a room. Lime yellow "Yellow, with a squeeze of lime, has the freshness of Key lime pie and the energy of sunshine in the morning. It's great in a study or any room where you don't need to sleep. The clarity of the color makes it feel modern, and the sharpness gives it an edge. Do it in high gloss for even more vibrancy." DD AllenBenjamin Moore Advance Yellow Finch 2024-40 Pumpkin "Not a single client looks at this chip and says, 'Great!' But once it's on the walls, they get it. This color is incredibly warm, and it transcends any given style equally at home in a beach house or in backcountry Greenwich. Best said by a six-year-old with a family room in this color: 'It's like living in a pumpkin pie.'" Kevin IsbellBenjamin Moore Aura Buttered Yam AF-230 Cerulean blue "This is a brilliant cerulean blue that feels modern and bold because of its intensity. The depth of color would give character and panache to any room. It's a fearless choice, and that reflects a confident and very contemporary attitude about decorating." Michael CoxFarrow & Ball Full Gloss Stone Blue 86 Lilac "Lilac is one of my favorite flowers. And this is just a whisper of color, very light and airy instead of heavy and Victorian. A bit of purple always adds a modern touch, yet has an old-fashioned feel. It would be especially serene in a bedroom, with white trim." Lynn MorganBenjamin Moore Advance Nosegay 1401 Gray "All those off-white rooms that can turn dingy yellow just seem dated to me. Gray is the new neutral. My interiors have always been about contrast, and gray is a great backdrop for a clear, modern palette because it works with both warm and cool colors, like fuchsia, turquoise-blue, and spring green." Deborah WalkerSherwin-Williams Duration Gray Screen SW 7071 Bold yellow "We've seen greens and oranges, and now yellow is ready for the spotlight. It's a happy color like a happy face and it's about to take on the world. This yellow is intense and saturated, so you need to spread it out in doses. Use it to liven up a door, a feature wall, or a powder room. It's a mood enhancer." Christopher ColemanBenjamin Moore Advance Bold Yellow 336 Black "Black looks strikingly fresh to me. Once it was reserved for dungeon dwellers and the most daring decoristas, but now it's a glamorous neutral that just oozes chic. It glows in sunlit spaces like nobody's business and is a pristine backdrop for jewel tones, brights, and, eternally, white. Opt for an eggshell finish, which won't show every mark and fingerprint." Elaine GriffinValspar Signature Very Black 5011-2 Cream "Everybody thought for a while that cream was it, and then it went out of favor. But I think it's coming back in a big way. Trust me. It's crisp, and it's warm, and warm tones always make a room and everyone in it look better. I think it's as chic as can be." Kerry DelroseRalph Lauren Paint Studio Cream RLUL-236 Yellow-orange "There's something so fresh, inviting, and invigorating about a yellow room. This is slightly orangey so much better than a yellow that goes green. I feel like I'm happily lounging inside a buttercup. Wonderful in a bedroom or library with pale blue on the ceiling, white upholstery, and pops of hot pink or purple." Leslie BankerBenjamin Moore Aura Morning Sunshine 2018-50 Terra-cotta "Terra-cotta is not the trending color. It's offbeat, unexpected, and earthy, and that kind of individuality seems modern to me. In shimmery high gloss, it's also sexy. It would give artwork and antiques a fresh con text and make them younger and more exciting. Maybe I should try it in my bathroom!" Glenn GisslerFarrow & Ball Full Gloss Loggia 232 Vivid yellow "I'm loving the color yellow right now. Not your typical primary or buttery yellow, but this vivid yellow that has a touch of neon, without being too psychedelic. It reminds me of Pharrell's 'Happy' you just can't get enough of it." Danielle FennoyFarrow & Ball Estate Emulsion Yellowcake 279 Orange "Orange somehow feels modern and warm, which is what people are looking for these days. The right orange fills a room with energy, and this color inspired by the Orangerie at Versailles is the perfect balance of freshness and elegance. Paint the trim white and it will remind you of a Creamsicle!" Benjamin DhongFarrow & Ball Estate Emulsion Orangery 70

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From wallpapering a window shade to reupholstering furniture with old curtains, these fast and easy makeover tips make a big difference. Display a great collection on a dining room table In the living room of an Atlanta house by designer Beth Webb, an elm plank table from Clubcu, which often doubles as a dining table, dramatically displays a collection of Chinese porcelains. "The pieces don't have to match, but they do have to play together well," Webb says. Hang an interior curtain In the kitchen of the same Atlanta house, a linen curtain runs on a track spanning the room and can be pulled "to conceal the mess of preparation," Webb says. Steel-and-glass casements frame views of the pool and garden. KWC Gastro faucet. Mix and match your bedding "We call this 'the sailor room,' because we went all out with the nautical theme," designer Ken Fulk says of a bedroom in his Massachusetts vacation house. "The mix-and-match nature of the patterns and faded batik prints make it feel like it's a collection of old textiles brought back from a journey at sea." John Robshaw bedding. Antique cage lights hang from an antique metal four-poster bed that belonged to the previous owner. Put an antique in the bathroom The guest bath in Fulk's vacation home "feels authentic to the period of the house, but also clean and modern," he says. Pedestal tub and fixtures from Sunrise Specialty. Paint an inexpensive piece of furniture white This Kansas City house's dining room, a former loggia, is "light, bright, and airy," homeowner and designer Zim Loy says. "I accomplished that with lots of white paint." She bought a beat-up old $60 table at an estate sale and gave it a fresh new look by the painting the base high-gloss white. Its curves echo the arms of the Barbara Cosgrove chandelier. Cover a wall with plates Loy discovered Hackerware on eBay "there's tons of it, and it's so cheap!" and started collecting it for the dining room. Covering the whole wall with plates has the same effect as "one big piece of art." Wallpaper your vinyl window shades "I had a roll of wallpaper in my office that was left over from a photo shoot we did, and I was about to put it in the trash when I thought, 'No, I can do something with this,' " Loy says. "Then I thought of the vinyl shades in our guest room. So I wallpapered them. You gotta go for it." The vinyl shades are papered in Pierre Frey's Espalier. The canopy bed was painted black to show off its silhouette. Dress up hallways with Turkish runners In the second-floor hallway of a California house, designer Betsy Burnham overlaps Turkish runners from Rugs & Art, drawing the eye to a Moroccan-inspired reading nook. The vintage carpets "can transform a plain hallway into a decorated space," Burnham says. "A really faded, tattered rug is instantly Bohemian." The window seat is covered in Tibet woven silk from S. Harris. Pillows by Hollywood at Home; garden stool from Rolling Greens. Move seating away from the walls "Float furniture away from the walls: It creates more intimate seating," designer Betsy Burnham says. She did just that in the living room of this California house. The console table separating back-to-back sofas is decked with vintage goddess figurine lamps and Chinese monkeys "for a Tony Duquette, William Haines flavor." Sellarsbrook rug, the Rug Company. Rectangular Cocktail Table, Baker. Reupholster furniture with old curtains "Everything in this room has a story," designer Podge Bune says of her Hamptons cottage's living room. "The easy chair is covered in my old dining room curtains, a Designers Guild fabric they no longer make."

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Unique and useful ideas to get your kitchen organized. By Sarah Yang Get creative with your cabinets Get creative with your kitchen cabinets. Inspired by a vintage printer's desk, Monica Bhargava had the cabinets in her California kitchen made to look like drawers. Try an étagère for extra vertical storage An open shelving unit adds more storage, but doesn't take up too much floor or visual space. An antique étagère placed on the counter of Mary Jo Bochner's Savannah, Georgia, kitchen holds books and bowls. Avoid searching for ingredients with a pull-out pantry In designer Stephanie Stokes's 48-square-foot New York City kitchen, the "pantry" for dry goods consists of two cabinets that slide out over the countertop so that everything is easy to find. Use swivel stools to save floor space In Dan Doyle's St. Helena, California, kitchen, vintage swivel stools can be tucked completely out of the way, which saves a lot of space. Make an antique piece work for you Designer Samantha Lyman wanted to give a new California kitchen some historic pieces like this antique armoire. It was originally only 12 inches deep inside not big enough for large platters and big bowls. So Lyman set it into the cabinetry to give it more depth. The cabinet-maker removed the back and extended it to 26 inches inside. Then, Lyman painted the interior a darker color to conceal the difference. Hide clutter behind closed doors In a Chicago kitchen designed by Mick De Giulio, all the clutter of the kitchen is hidden behind closed doors, which open to reveal an expansive pantry. The drawers are constructed out of the same honey-colored pine as the kitchen island. Pull-out willow baskets hold fruit and vegetables. Install a pull-out cutting board for easy clean-up In a Houston, Texas, kitchen designed by Michele Allman, a pull-out cutting board has a hole, which makes it easy to brush the scraps straight into the trash bin just below. Add a crockery drawer to organize china "Crockery drawers mean you're not on your toes, straining to reach a stack of heavy china," Julie Stevenson says of her sleek, streamlined kitchen designed by Alexander Adducci in Lake Bluff, Illinois. The drawers are outfitted with movable pegs so that it's easy to accommodate various size dishes. Make your countertop do double-duty In the 2012 Kitchen of the Year in New York City, designed by Mick de Giulio, Grothouse's wenge-wood countertop has an integrated bowl. Set down eggs as you take them out of the fridge, and they won't roll away. Create a zone in a small space with folding doors In designer Bill Brockschmidt's 640-square-foot New York City apartment, the kitchen is located in the entry hall and is camouflaged from the living area with folding doors. With only one room, it's important to create zones. "Creating folding doors allowed us to transform the entry into a mini-gallery when we entertain," Brockschmidt says. "We can also close off the dining room from the kitchen with pocket doors, so that once guests have arrived, we can open up the kitchen for cooking."

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These rooms are perfect for lounging and snuggling. Steal these ideas to get a cozy, comfortable look in your bedroom. Fireplace Designer Dan Marty always lights a fire in the bedroom of his Los Angeles apartment, even in summer. Like him, his 15-year-old mixed-breed dog, Samantha, is a lover of chairs. She moves from one to the other in his house and store, Dan Marty Design. The bedcover is an antique sari. Dark colors "We love dark, saturated colors, given that so much of our year is spent in winter light," designer Deirdre Heekin says. "They're warm and enveloping."In the bedroom of her Vermont cottage, Benjamin Moore's Iron Mountain provides a dramatic contrast to the white leather Licari Design bed and colorful parrot-print coverlet from Studio Due. Faux red fox throw, W Hotels boutique. Sunburst mirror, Kenneth Wingard. Washed wood In Harriet Maxwell MacDonald and Andrew Corrie's Shelter Island, New York beach house, the warm wood walls were sanded and covered in a diluted wash."We kept all the fabrics to natural, muted tones, and it's all the colors you see in the view whites, grays, blues, a bit of pale pink," MacDonald says. White bed linens look even more crisp and fresh when they're paired with wood. Patterned wallpaper Ralph Lauren Home's Ashfield Floral wallpaper turns a small guest room in a Hollywood Hills farmhouse into a romantic retreat."I think the pattern in these bedrooms come right off the wall and gives the room so much texture they wrap you up and envelope you," designer and owner Tobi Tobin says. Chintz Designer Connie Newberry loves the warm, cozy look of chintz. The walls in the guest bedroom of her house in New York's Dutchess County were painted Chili Pepper by Benjamin Moore to complement one of her favorite chintzes by Brunschwig & Fils."I didn't want guests to come in and think they were going to be eaten alive by those giant apples and pears," she says. "So I quilted it to take the edge off. From a practical standpoint, it makes the fabric more durable because you're backing it. And it feels so cozy, as if you can snuggle up to it." Texture Layered in a rich mix of textures, the master bedroom in an Aspen condo designed by Cheryl Tague has a luxuriously cozy feeling. The duvet cover is a hemp block print from Le Gracieux, Arabesque; the velvet pillows are Rogers & Goffigon's Biarritz; and the fur throw is from Prada. The artwork is mixed media on wood by Kris Coz, who lives in Colorado. Balance Walls in an Austin, Texas, master bedroom are painted Pratt & Lambert's Wolf, a warm gray with a hint of chocolate."The master bedroom is a very large space with a sleeping area and a sitting area, and the rich charcoal gray walls give it a cozy feeling," designer Sara Scaglione says. "It can be daunting to use a wall color this dark, but the owners really love it."White bedding, curtains, carpet, and slipcovers keep the room from feeling too cavelike. A 19th-century French armchair is covered in Rogers & Goffigon's Olivia stripe in Argent and off-white. Alabaster lamps from Visual Comfort are on Oly Studio Jackson tables in Dark Brown. Alcove Take advantage of small nooks. In designer Stephen Shubel's small California cottage, the guest room's bed fits into a cozy alcove. Mann-O-Print curtains frame the guest room's shipshape berth with built-in drawers. The Louis XVI portrait is a photocopy paper assemblage by Woody Biggs. Curtains In a Washington, D.C., house designed by Barry Dixon, flax curtains cocoon the bedroom and hide all the books. A round beaded Coco lantern by Four Hands draws attention to the tall ceiling and illuminates the reading nook, furnished with Zentique chairs and ottoman. Upper East coverlet from Ankasa. Pine furniture For the carriage house of a Saratoga Springs, New York, house, designer Nancy Boszhardt had log pole pine beds crafted by Wilde Wood Furniture in Wyoming. They give the space a rustic look.

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Amazing and innovative spaces for outdoor cooking and entertaining. Bring your outdoor space to a new level with these amazing ideas. Blue: In Dianne Bernhard's Westport, Connecticut, kitchen, Plain & Fancy cabinets with Nantucket-style doors and blue-toned Caesarstone on top pick up the colors of the water just beyond the deck. "We really do live out here during the summer," Bernhard says. Ceiling is painted Benjamin Moore's Blue Springs. Modern In designer Bonnie Edelman's Ridgewood, Connecticut house, the pool kitchen's stained white-oak ceiling pours warmth over cool metal custom stainless-steel cabinets. A drop-down metal gate protects appliances from rain. Salvaged Materials Designer Sandy Koepke used salvaged material and earthy colors to give this outdoor kitchen in Manhattan Beach, California, some age and maturity. All of the appliances and cabinetry are from Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet. Table and chairs from Lucca Antiques. Nantucket The U-shaped layout of this Nantucket kitchen is zoned from hot to cold, moving from the K900 Hybrid Fire Grill on the left to a pair of 32,000-BTU cooktops, the Outdoor Artisan pizza oven, a sink, two 24-inch refrigerator drawers, a beverage cooler, and a 15-inch ice maker. "Usually an outdoor kitchen is more of an adjunct, but this is complete," designer Kris Horiuchi says. "The client wanted the whole shebang - grill, cooktops, refrigerator, sink, pizza oven." Organic There's an organic feeling to the outdoor kitchen designed by Mick De Giulio, thanks to a variety of colors, shapes, and textures of stone from Medina Slab pavers to the island built of Weston Stone, all from Belgard Hardscapes. Mario Batali's Etna Grande wood-fired oven by Chicago Brick Oven. Gloster stools. Monterey curved sofa, ottoman, and Trident lantern by Frontgate. Blue planters, Grandin Road. French Conductor lantern by Sandy Chapman for Circa Lighting. Natural Hues This outdoor kitchen in Calistoga, California, takes its colors from the earth and the sky. A Viking warming drawer is conveniently closet to the Fogazzo 1050 pizza oven. "It's all about entertaining," architect Michael Layne says. "People are going to gather where cooking's going on, so you need lots of counter space and plenty of seating - the open kitchen is bracketed on one end by the pizza oven and the other by a 30-foot horseshoe-shaped banquette." Shutters In Malcom James Kutner's Key West house, the outdoor kitchen cabinets are made from old cypress shutters supplied by shutter restorer Liz Devries. "With outdoor living in general, it's about being friendly with nature and inviting it inside instead of trying to draw that heavy line in the sand that says, 'This is the outside and this is the inside,'" he says. "Key West is all about living harmoniously with nature."

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A mound of dirty dishes That leaning tower of dishware may symbolize building resentment over the division of labor. Refusing to suck it up and do the dishes might be a passive aggressive way to get your partner to help out more — at some point, you're gonna run out of dishes, right? Stop the power struggle and make a list of all the household duties, estimating how long each takes. Then figure out how you want to divvy 'em up. Maybe each person gets to be a chore captain and you keep picking until they're all covered, or you could just alternate every other week. Stacks of old bills If your partner is in charge of the finances and your front table looks like a bill bomb went off (or you're finding random receipts and credit card statements all over the house), she may be trying to tell you something: She's tired of being the house accountant and shouldering all of the financial responsibility. If that's the case, create a system for sharing the responsibility, whether that means you'll sit down together every month to pay the bills or you guys decide to split it up. Dirty clothes on the floor Leaving dirty laundry on the floor could be his way of protesting against a home that's all you — and none of him. Are you laying on the lavender-scented room fresheners a tad too thick? It may be time to redecorate — together. In the meantime, try placing a hamper or hook where those sweaty gym clothes or wet towels usually fall. A disastrous dresser top Congratulations, you trust each other! Emptying out your pockets (or purse) and laying their contents out by the bedside demonstrates intimacy and trust. But while bureau clutter might mean good news for your relationship, it's not such a good thing for your sleep quality or sex life. Clutter is a reminder of all the things you still need to do (translation: mess equals stress). So invest in two catchalls for the dresser, where you can each place all your daily debris (keys, wallets, lucky baseball cards ...). Wet towels, PJs, magazines (etc.) on the bed Is your bed usually covered in newspapers, robes, a laptop and the ten outfits you tried on that morning? A messy bed could be a sign that you're not putting much thought into your sex life (read: you don't think of your bed as something you need to keep accessible so you can hop into it on the fly). And it could give your partner the message that you have made romance or sex less of a priority. Place a chair or laundry basket near your bed where you can toss all the vetoed outfits and wet towels. Words to live by: A clutter-free bed is a sexy bed. Bathroom counter clutter If your partner's products are starting to encroach upon your counter space, it probably just means she hasn't yet gotten used to sharing a nest with you. Maybe she assumes that because she has more stuff, it make sense for her to use up more room. If, despite your subtle hints ("Keep your $#%& on your side!"), your mate's migrating toiletries are taking over the bathroom, move (note: we didn't say throw) the traveling shampoos back to their proper home a few times. If that doesn't give her the hint, it may be time to build a few shelves. But cut her some slack: Sharing a space can take some getting used to. Nestperts: Patti Wood, MA, CSP, body language expert and author of Success Signals: A Guide to Reading Body Language ; Scott Haltzman, MD, author of " The Secrets of Happily Married Women." More from The Nest • 20 hot dates under $20 • 50+ flirty cocktail recipes • Biggest couple fights solved! • Easy meal ideas for two • Spoon much? What your sleep style means

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For someone who would rather pay it forward, proceeds go to deserving charities and these gifts happen to be fabulous as well. Plus, see more holiday gift guides. Friends Forever Same Sky wrap bracelets, $30 short, $40 long, samesky.com. Made by Rwandan women who survived the 1994 genocide, 100% of the proceeds are reinvested into the company to buy more materials and employ more women artisans. Whistle Blowers Dannijo necklaces, Crystal, $498 and Brass Fringe $398, dannijo.com. The whistle necklaces are to generate awareness for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo's upcoming presidential election. Printed Matter Missoni pouch, $80, m-missoni.com. Proceeds are donated to OrphanAid Africa to help orphaned children in Ghana. Ingenius Jeans J Brand jeans, $144 each, jbrand.com. 100% of the proceeds are donated to City Year, a non-profit organization that fights the national high school dropout crisis. Color Outside the Lines RxArt coloring book, $20, rxart.net. 100% of the proceeds are reinvested into RxArt's mission of improving healthcare facilities with fine art. Jewel Box Jamie Wolf earrings, $5,300, jamiewolf.com. 50% of all proceeds will be donated to the New York City Ballet. Travel Size Tory Burch cases, $75 medium, $55 small, toryburch.com. All profits go towards the Tory Burch Foundation, committed to providing economic opportunities to women and their families in the United States. Southwestern Influence Theodora & Callum scarf, $175, bloomingdales.com. 15% of sales benefit the Child Mind Institute, devoted to transforming mental health care for the world's children. In Good Spirits Belvedere vodka, $30, Sherry Lehman NYC, 212-838-7500. 50% of sales goes towards the Global Fund, the world’s leading financier of programs to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa. Snake Charmer Camille Zarsky, $1,400, camillezarsky.com. 35% of the proceeds will be donated to raise funds for water wells in Ethiopia. Inner Beauty Clarins FEED set, $90, bloomingdales.com. Each bag provides 25 school meals to the United Nations World Food Programme. Trim the Tree Designer ornaments, $40, bloomingdales.com. $5 will benefit the Child Mind Institute, devoted to transforming mental health care for the world's children.

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Chevron, stripes, checkerboard even painted lily pads these cool floors make a colorful statement right under your feet. Zigzags "The master bedroom has a very retro feel to it with the pink, tangerine, and lavender color palette, the paisley linen, and the zigzag Missoni-esque pattern on the floor," says Mona Ross Berman, who designed this New Jersey beach house. The floor is painted Salmon Berry and White Dove, both by Benjamin Moore. Playful pattern In this Manhattan apartment's kitchen, designers William Diamond and Anthony Baratta added a playful citrus pattern to bright blue floors. "Our clients a couple in their forties with two little girls wanted something zippy and up-to-date, but that still cast an admiring eye on the past," says Diamond. The lacquered chair is from Room, the Saarinen table from Knoll. Microwave and wall oven by Viking. Purple "I started out as a painter, and I'd always add purple to other colors to give them depth and richness," designer Peter Vaughn says. "Lavender reflects light well, which is why you see it all over Scandinavia. In the depth of winter, it's a very cheerful color to walk into." Lily pads "The floor is the room's biggest surface area, so I thought, why not a pond?" says Christina Murphy, the designer behind this Oyster Bay, New York beach house. Stylized lily pads painted by Christopher Rollinson. Graphic tile The circular pattern of these black and white marble floor tiles by Ann Sacks give a graphic punch to this Washington town house by Hillary Thomas and Jeff Lincoln. "The house makes you want to put on some Chet Baker and get all Mad Men with a pack of cigarettes and a shaker full of gin martinis," says Thomas. Wall-to-wall stripes In her Texas guesthouse, designer Ginger Barber stained the floor chocolate brown and white. "We did that for fun," she says. "We used porch stain to get that on-and-off paint look imperfect. The shading's a little irregular so the age and patina come through." Checkerboard In the foyer of her Kansas City apartment, designer Kelee Katillac stained the entry floor's diamond pattern herself. A Park Avenue bergère from Hickory Chair is upholstered in a Valtekz patent leather. Chevron Alla Akimova created drama in a luminous, all-white New York City bathroom by adding a chevron marble floor. It's composed of Dark Emperador and Thassos marble and was custom cut by Manhattan Renovations. Splattered bue "Blue was a natural for a Nantucket boathouse, and it brightened all that old wood. Then we splattered it with red, white, and blue, so you don't notice all the sand you track in. You just tap a wet paintbrush against a strip of wood, but it's more difficult to control than you think. It could end up looking like a Jackson Pollock but that would be cool, too," says designer Gary McBournie. Moroccan tile In a Cape Cod, Massachusetts, bathroom, designer Kyle Timothy Blood created a T-shaped carpet of tile in a Moroccan pattern. "Did you notice how the 'carpet' runs right under the vanity?" the designer says. "That vanity has legs, which gives it a feeling of lightness. Finally, to unite all these spaces a border in yet another pattern runs like a ribbon around the whole room." The tile and woodwork is from Mosaic House.

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8 couples share at what moment they knew they had found their life partner. Cue the awws. Jason & Ashley He Said: We were in Vancouver for a short getaway weekend, and after a hike in Stanley Park, she stared out to the ocean and I knew she was the one. Over three years later, I can reflect back on that moment, and I know it was Ashley's emphatic love for life, her family and friends that stood out the most. She Said: I knew Jason was my one and only by our third date. As we sat overlooking the ocean and talked about life's adventures, I felt an attraction and sense of ease like never before. I quickly knew I found my match: a gentleman with a patient spirit, a true lust for life, and someone who'd love me for me unconditionally. Nupam & Natasha He Said: To be honest, there was no single epiphanic moment. Through the time we were dating, I slowly started to notice that I would think about her and ways to make her happy more than I would think about me and my needs. That's the point I knew she was the one. She Said: Nupam and I had only been dating for a few months when I was was on my way to pick him up from the airport after he returned from a month long trip with a friend.The moment we saw each other this enormous smile came across his face, and I just knew we were in it forever. Pete & Koryeah He Said: I knew after our first vacation together, a summer trip to Colorado, that the adventure of life would be so much better with Koryeah by my side. I absolutely loved being with her as we took in a concert in Aspen, whitewater rafted and explored Denver. Fittingly, we later moved to Denver and eventually took our vows in the Rocky Mountains. She Said: After a few weeks of dates that had gone all too well, we took it to the next level and added each other on Facebook. On his profile, I immediately came across the Bob Marley quote "One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain." The biggest smile appeared on my face because that is my life's mantra! Our life has been one concert, love song and dance ever since. Jeff & Eric He Said: I was at LAX when I knew Eric was the one. Eric picked me up from the airport after a business trip (and that alone is true love). Eric was waiting for me and didn't see me. I had a moment to see the eagerness and excitement on his face as he waited. He shuffled from foot to foot and kept looking at his watch to check the time. The expression on his face said everything and I knew without words. He was the one. He Said: I knew Jeff was the one on our first date. We went out for sushi dinner and had the best conversation. It was like I'd known him for years. As we walked out of the restaurant, I asked Jeff for a kiss. That was all it took. Chris & Teresa He Said: I knew Teresa was the one when we saw each other for the first time. It was that classic love-at-first-sight scenario you see in movies. I think the simple litmus test for love at first sight could be how long you re willing to look each other in the eye when you first meet. With Teresa, I found myself gazing into her eyes for what seemed like 10 minutes. I have never been sure of something in my entire life and I find myself reliving the feeling of falling in love with her again and again every time I look into her eyes. She Said: When Chris introduced himself to me, he held my gaze with those soft brown eyes of his and I felt something indescribable within my heart. I've come to now identify that as a connection that goes much deeper than love. And from that moment on, Chris has remained at my side and that initial feeling that I first experienced eleven years ago is still felt whenever we catch each other s eyes today. Troy & Kelley He Said: I knew I was going to marry Kel about three years before we started dating. We were friends for about seven years first and would spend hours just talking about any and everything. One night after one of the many lengthy conversations we had, I went to bed with this feeling of, This girl will be wife one day. I never felt a sense of urgency either. I always knew it was something that was going to happen and fate would work it out for us. And it did. She Said: I knew within the first few months of dating I wanted to marry Troy. It was an indescribable feeling; I just knew he was the right man for me when I could be my complete goofy self around him and he loved it. We had an undeniable connection and didn't want to leave one another s side. It s still the same seven years later. David & Anne He Said: We had known each other for years before we formed a relationship. For about six months we were dating before Anne acknowledged we were in fact truly dating. Finally, one day she wrote me a letter in Morse code asking me out. There were plenty of other creative and fun moments that influenced me, but that's when I knew. She Said: At some point I just realized that being with Dave was the best part of my day. There are a lot of days that I fall in love with him all over again. Yesterday for example. I was about to kill him over something at lunch and we were laughing about how stupid it was by dinner. He is extraordinarily thoughtful, funny, and not to mention devastatingly handsome. Franklin & Chandler He Said: I knew from our first date that there was something extremely special about her. I remember watching her laugh and I was drawn to her smile and her joy. She amazed me that first evening with a glimpse of a heart that was uniquely beautiful and a smile that would make any heart smile. She is one of a kind and to this day she still amazes me. She completes me and my life has finally become perfect with her being part of it. She Said: I didn't believe in love at first sight, and I was very happily single. But when my friend set me up on a blind date, I opened the door and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I knew from the moment I saw him that he was the one. I know it sounds cliché, but I just knew. I came home from the date and told my mom that I was going to marry him.

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The dream of the '90s is alive We don"t have a crystal ball, but we do have a pulse on what"s hot in the world of weddings. From oversized bouquets to jeweled necklines and even temporary tattoo wedding favors, here's what you can expect to see this year. Knowing that the ready-to-wear fashion runways, home design trends and even Billboard's "The Hot 100" music list all influence wedding trends, it may not be surprising to hear that '90s-inspired details are on trend for weddings this year. We're talking temporary tattoo wedding favors (get them at Tattly, The Knot Shop and even Etsy), hip hop music groups or even break dancers to entertain guests while the band or DJ takes a break, and crop-top wedding dresses (Haley Paige, Tara La Tour and Houghton all have them in their collections). Love the idea? Do it in small doses -- unless of course you want your wedding to look like it was inspired by Celine Dion. Woodland weddings The big wedding theme this year looks rustic and natural with sophisticated, glam accents. So maybe the centerpieces are branchy and green with lots of lush flowers and a pop of sparkle with a sequin or faux fur table overlay. For fashion, long wedding veils and gowns with ethereal lace and floral embellishments are romantic ideas. Your bridesmaids can echo the look with sparkly, mismatched dresses and loose braids in their hair. And don't forget the flower girls: Flower crowns made out of branches and small dainty flowers are just right for your littlest attendants. Finally, finish your decor off with something really different like a tent (lit with twinkle lights) for the kids to play in or a fun animal motif printed on everything from the invites to the ceremony programs, escort cards and more. Unplugged weddings (please don't Instagram my wedding) Don't like the idea of guests attached to their phones throughout the ceremony and reception? Opt for an unplugged wedding. Provide a phone check at the door (like a coat check), or add a note to your wedding website or ceremony program asking guests to refrain from taking photos or video. You can word it nicely -- something like: "We want you to truly enjoy the ceremony and reception, so we ask that you please refrain from taking photos or video today and just have fun!" Brights are back Gone are the days of all-white weddings. This year, big pops of bright hues are back for wedding color palettes. We're not talking about a rainbow of color here. The idea is to take a neutral, muted palette, like whites, ivories and metallic gold, and add a bold color like poppy red, tangerine or indigo blue. How to pull it off? Infuse color only into those big details that everyone will see. Ask your florist to use a pop of color in all of your florals, have your cake baker create incredible colorful sugar flowers and choose a bright nail polish to match! Jeweled wedding dress necklines The bridal fashion runways were full of simple, classic wedding dresses with added sparkle along the neckline -- from sheer illusion necklines with small crystals to larger embroidered rhinestones and crystals, like these dresses from Hayley Paige, Yumi Katsura and Reem Acra . And when you think about it, most of your wedding photos will be taken of you from the waist up. So if you're going to have something sparkly or unique, it'll be best captured on the neckline or around the waist of your wedding dress! Super-charged guests This is literally the opposite of the unplugged wedding. If you want your guests capturing your entire wedding day via your custom hashtag, ensure their phones stay charged all night with phone charging stations at the reception. To create a chic charging station (so that it doesn't look like an airport kiosk), dress up tall cocktail tables with pretty linens and have your florist create small flatbeds of roses or wheatgrass with little flowers and cords popping up. All-nighter weddings Like to party? Have a late-night after-party. This works well for weddings with a mixed guest list of elderly guests and families (who prefer to be in bed by 10 p.m.) and close friends and college buddies (who wouldn't think of leaving until the last song). To pull off a smooth transition, plan to cut the cake, toss the bouquet and take care of all those special parent dances by 10 or 11 p.m. That'll give your older guests the signal that it's okay to leave and your friends a chance to cut loose. Change up the style and vibe too by moving the party into another room or even an alternate venue. (If your wedding was all white, create a red or blue lounge feel.) One big important to-do if you take this route: arrange for transportation home or back to the hotel, so that none of your guests drive home afterwards. The year of the flower While flowers tend to show up in 99 percent of weddings, this year, floral arrangements are getting a serious upgrade. We're talking about an oversized cascade bridal bouquet, elaborate flower installations that hang over the dance floor or a few of the tables, fresh flower ceremony arches, cake canopies decked out with flowers, or even a fresh flower wall for escort cards and seating arrangements. It sounds pricey (and it definitely can be), but you don't necessarily have to spend a fortune to get the look. Choose one big focal point or detail and then keep the rest of the flowers on the simpler side. Long live the photo booth Photo booths are nothing new for weddings. We've seen them evolve from vintage photo booths with monogrammed photo strips as favors to point and shoot booths that project guest photos in real time over the dance floor. Enter the slow-motion video booth. Using a special infrared camera, your videographer can set this up for you to create an amazing keepsake. Beyond the slow-motion trend, photo booths have gone even more custom and over-the-top. We know one planner who recently created a trampoline photo booth and a photo booth company in Austin that does booths with comic book sketches! Trash-the-dress backlash There's a counter-revolution going on in wedding photography and videography. Instead of trash-the-dress sessions (where brides would spend a day with their photographer ruining their dress in the mud or a nearby lake), formal portraiture is back in style. The Southern bridal portrait tradition is going mainstream, as are formal bridal party portraits (say goodbye to the flying "V" photo) and family shots too (sometimes even sans smile!). Think of it as the ultimate nod to your great-grandparents' generation, when photography wasn't so instant and much more curated and traditional.

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A memorable and beautiful outdoor soiree doesn't require a trip to the mall...you can pull off a clever, stylish party with pieces you already have (and a little creativity.) What you have: Ribbons How to make them party-ready: Lay them across the table in contrasting colors (no need to get the order exactly the same every time) to make a stunning and cheerful tablecloth. Here, celebrity party planner Mindy Weiss, who shared this smart tip, layered them over a white table cloth for a clean backdrop. What you have: Folding chairs How to make them party-ready: Bring out the (bright!) spray paint and give them a makeover. Taylor Sterling, founder of Glitter Guide, recommends this fun DIY to turn the ho-hum chairs that's likely getting dusty in your garage into the perfect, festive extra seating. What you have: Water balloons How to make them party-ready: Fill them up, freeze them, and use them in place of ice in a cooler. We love this fun and colorful idea spotted on A Subtle Revelry placed in glass containers, they're far more attractive than ice...and when they start to sag you can just pop them back in the freezer. What you have: Oranges How to make them party-ready: Eat the oranges and save the peels they can make for an adorable and inventive cup for desserts. See how on Itsy Bitsy Foodies, and keep this bonus in mind: These are dessert bowls you won't have to wash after. Score! What you have: A dresser How to make them party-ready: Pull it outside and use it as a bar. We love this sophisticated but homey look seen on Colin Cowie Weddings. A self-service bar frees you, the host, up to mingle with guests rather than wait on them. And this clever set-up, with accessories in the drawers and bottles set out on top is sure to get them talking. What you have: Wine bottles How to make them party-ready: Use them as candle-holders! (Once you've had the wine, obviously. Sterling suggests grouping them on a table with taper candles as seen on Glitter Guide not only do the candles add ambience but thanks to the wine bottles shine and translucence, there's an extra element of sparkle. What you have: Paper bags How to make them party-ready: Pack your (plastic) flatware and (paper) napkins in the bags, with some strategic folding and be-ribboning. Glitter Guide's Sterling suggested this idea, and we love how it simplifies setting the table. Get the instructions on Catch My Party.

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1. Staying connected ... to the web Checking your BlackBerry during foreplay might be an even worse offense than sleeping with someone in your roommate's bed. To connect with your partner, you must disconnect from the web. Get your phone off the dinner table. Update Facebook later. Virtual Scrabble can wait. FYI: "Live tweeting" a hookup ( Shirt is off! #gettingiton ) is generally frowned upon. 2. Poor grooming Guys, the rules have changed. Many moons ago, in a far simpler time, you were considered to have good hygiene if you wore deodorant. Now? More is expected. And when I say "more," I really mean less ... at least when it comes to the hair down there. Different girls have different preferences, but one thing is clear: A moppy, untamed jungle is appreciated by no one. Ladies, the same goes for you. 3. Invoking the ex Don't do it. Period. Oh, but you're bad-mouthing your ex to show your current partner how great he is in contrast? Yeah, still a buzzkill. Think back to Say Anything . Remember Lloyd Dobler with the boom box? Now pretend that John Cusack shouts over the music, "Ya know, I did this once before, for my ex-girlfriend. But she didn't like it. She was always too focused on her cheerleading, you know, always the rah, rah, rah ... " 4. Talking about money Talk of prices will undercut any romantic gesture. Consider: "Hope you like the champagne. It cost almost as much as my rent!" Mmm, the taste of implied indebtedness . Or, "I would have brought you a dozen roses ... but I could only afford one." Well-played. You turned a romantic gesture into a pity-fest, miser . "Don't worry, with my bonus this year, I could have bought you five of these necklaces." Oh, did you get a bonus for being a pompous jerk? 5. Getting distracted by anything less than an earthquake When you're in the moment, you're in the moment. Don't kill it. If you break eye contact to watch Houston Rockets highlights, you're toast. If you point out how good the new lampshades look while he's nibbling your ear, it's done. A good rule of thumb: When in the moment, never shift your attention from your partner unless your actual life is at stake ... okay, or your mom busts in. 6. Ripping yourself a new one It's fine to poke fun at yourself — a little. Think: drunk, naked Seth Rogen (I promise I have a point) in Knocked Up telling Katherine Heigl, "You're prettier than I am." Not gratuitous self-deprecating humor like: "If you ever need a carpet, you can just shave my back, ha, ha." Not : "Just grab onto my giant love handles, ha ha." And not : "You won't be late for work — this'll only take about 45 seconds, ha ha." Do any of the above, and no sex for you tonight, ha, ha. 7. Dirty talking in public Let's say we're at a dinner party. You're whispering some naughty things that we'll do later in my ear — now that's hot. But having a few too many and announcing our intentions to the party, while boasting about how we shattered the bed frame and annoy the neighbors with our cries of ecstasy? Not so much. Private dirty talk is sexy; public TMI usually means it's time to take you home, where you'll promptly pass out, and we won't be doing any of the things you bragged about. More from The Nest 20 hot dates under $20 6 secrets to a sexy bedroom Easy meal ideas for two Spoon much? What your sleep style means The #1 mistake that could ruin your relationship

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Valentine's Day, First-Date Anniversary, Tuesday when you're in love, just about any day is a perfect excuse for sparking romance. Any time you feel the need to connect with your sweetheart, these ideas are perfect no holiday necessary. 1. Stuff a little love note in your sweetie's pocket, sock, or shoe. For maximum impact, try email. 2. Secretly load a photo of the two of you as the desktop wallpaper on your honey's computer. 3. Burn a CD with tunes from your dating days and include your first dance (or favorite) song. 4. Buy a heart-shaped cookie-cutter and use it to make toast the next morning. 5. Look up the date of the next full moon and celebrate with a champagne toast. 6. Learn to ice skate or in-line skate together. This works best when both of you are beginners the more clinging to each other, the better. 7. Hate basketball and your main squeeze is addicted to it? Get tickets to a game. Despise musicals? Surprise your sweetie with tickets to a show. Go against the grain, and endure with grace and cheer. 8. Spend the day at a museum, holding hands. 9. Forget breakfast in bed. Have dinner in bed (and don't worry about the crumbs). 10. Go to bed early. No books, no magazines, no remote control. 11. Tell a secret it'll bring you closer. 12. Create your own cocktail together. Then make up a name for it by combining your two names. 13. Write "I Love You" on the steamy mirror while your beloved is in the shower. 14. Go to a bookstore or music store together, then split up. Your mission: Buy something you know your sweetie will love. Then, wrap and exchange. 15. Have a picnic. It doesn't have to be outdoors, it can be on your living room floor. 16. Absence is an aphrodisiac. Spend a weekend without each other (substitute your best pal, your sister, your old college roommate) and plan to meet back at your place after 48 hours apart. 17. Teach each other about something the other knows nothing about. He can teach her all the rules of chess, or how to make a perfect omelet. She can teach him ten phrases in French and how to use the digital camera. 18. Get away from it all close to home spend a night in a very luxurious hotel or cozy bed-and-breakfast in your own city. 19. Get dressed together choose each other's attire (for work, for dinner out, whatever). Then, later, get undressed together. 20. Find your sweetie's car in the parking lot and tuck a love note under the windshield wiper.

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The guys at our sister publication Stereophile would be horrified, but my home audio setup currently comprises an iPod hooked up to a set of $70 JBL Creature II speakers. Hi-fi, it ain't. Which perhaps explains why I reach for the top-shelf when choosing audio systems for my long-term test cars. My 2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid rocked a $5690 Burmester setup, while my 2012 Audi A8 had a $6300 Bang & Olufsen system. So I was mildly disappointed to find the best I could order for the Range Rover was an $1850 system by a company called Meridian. Meridian? Never heard of it… It turns out British-based Meridian builds the sort of digital audio equipment my colleagues at Stereophile take very seriously. I got to hear why when the Meridian guys demonstrated the company's top-of-the-range home audio system. It sounded like the artists from classical musicians to hard rockers were playing live, right there in the room. Truly extraordinary, as was the $220,000 price tag. But I began to suspect the optional 19-speaker, 825-watt system in the Range Rover might sound OK after all. Hit the audio settings button on the Rangie's touch screen, and you're offered the choice of a standard stereo setting, and three surround settings labeled "Meridian," "Dolby Pro Logic II," and "DTS Neo 6," as well as equalizer sliders for bass, treble, and the subwoofer. After lots of experimentation, I've decided I prefer the Meridian setting. As it happens, this, says Meridian engineering chief Richard Hollingsworth, is the setting designed to make your music sound as close as possible to the way it sounded to the guys at the recording studio mixing desk. To me it delivers a close, warm, full mid-range over a tightly controlled bass and crisp high frequencies. The Dolby setting injects a touch too much pomp into the bass for my liking, while the DTS setting results in more noticeable spacing between the instruments and a slightly crystalline edge to the sound. Clicked over the 10,000-mile mark rolling down the 405 freeway in Sunday traffic alongside a 427 Cobra and a rat-rodded 50s pickup. How L.A. Regardless of which setting you prefer, it's hard not to be deeply impressed by the performance of the available 19-speaker Meridian system in the Range Rover. For $1850, it delivers incredible bang for the buck; in fact, I'd need to conduct some serious back-to-back testing to be convinced the Audi's $6300 Bang & Olufsen setup sounded better. There's only one problem: I think I now want a Meridian home audio system, and an entry-level one costs about $10,000. I'm going to be listening to those $70 JBLs a little while longer… More on our long-term 2014 Land Rover Range Rover: Arrival Update 1: The Light Stuff Update 2: Finding the Sweet Spot Our Car Service life 12,604 mi Average fuel economy 16.4 mpg CO2 emissions 1.18 lb/mi EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ 17/23/19 mpg Energy consumption 205 kW-hr/100mi Unresolved problems None Maintenance cost $0 Normal-wear cost $0

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It's inevitable that you'll spread the excitement of your wedding to everyone in your social media network, so follow these rules to avoid a Facebook faux pas when it comes to sharing your wedding day details. For the guests: Share pics of the bride and groom But respect their request if they ask you not to post photos before they do. It's great that you want to show what a great wedding the couple threw and Instagram the cake and the flowers. Some couples may want to wait to share photographic details of the wedding until they have photos from their professional photographer, so you should respect their choice. If you're worried about whether you're in the clear with posting photos, then wait until a close friend or family member of the couple does so first. Then you'll know if it's okay to post away! Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the guests: Private message any wedding planning questions It can be awkward for the couple's other Facebook friends who weren't invited. If you want to discuss wedding plans with the bride or groom, then it's polite to do it in a private way. The couple may have hundreds of Facebook friends who aren't on the invite list, and it's not fair if each and every detail comes up on their news feed. Brides especially love to share wedding planning details, and she'll appreciate a friendly ear to listen if you call to find out how it's going. This is a busy time for the couple too, so don't be offended if they don't keep you up to date on every single detail! Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the guests: If the couple hasn't made the announcement, then you shouldn't spill the big news for them Your close friends and family will want to hear it straight from you first. It's exciting when you're the first to find out your best friend or sister is getting married, but hold off on the public congrats until they're ready to share the news themselves. They might be waiting for an important reason (like they haven't even told their parents yet!), and there could be hard feelings involved if others find out they weren't in-the-know first. Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the guests: Leave the phone in your purse or pocket Posting occasionally is okay, but the couple invited you to celebrate their day, not sit there on your phone. The couple spent a lot of time planning an event that you would enjoy, so don't spend the entire time on your phone posting about the wedding -- go have some fun! It's okay to share the love a few times, but you shouldn't opt out of hitting the dance floor in favor of tweeting a play-by-play. Plus, having a phone or tablet out all the time can get in the way of photos, and no one wants to look back on their wedding day to see a guest more engaged with a device than their reception. Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the guests: Follow directions for the RSVP The couple's inboxes are already full of wedding-related details; a text, email or DM is likely to get lost in the mix. Most paper invitations will include an RSVP card with an addressed envelope to send it back in, and couples will look for and expect responses by mail (before the deadline!). If you lose the card, then it's okay to call and find out how the couple would prefer you to RSVP once you know whether you'll be attending. Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the bride and groom: Call your parents before pressing 'post' or 'tweet' Your close friends and family will want to hear it straight from you first. A Facebook status or tweet might be the most efficient way to get the news out, but it's not the most personal. You know which friends and family members would appreciate to hear the news directly from you; plus, it's likely that older family members (like your grandparents!) don't have Facebook or Twitter accounts and could miss the message altogether. Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the bride and groom: Change your relationship status in minutes or months...it's up to you! There's no wrong or right time -- some couples even do it at the altar! Once you tie the knot, it's up to you and your new spouse to decide when to change your relationship status or last name on your social media sites. For some couples, this can be a very important moment; for others, it's no big deal. So if and when you're ready to make the change, go for it! Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the bride and groom: Post pics of your engagement ring But keep the nitty-gritty details like cost and carat to yourself.After you post your "engaged" status, your friends and family will be dying to find out what the ring looks like, so indulge them with a photo (you may want to prep with a manicure first!). It's not bragging to share a pic with the exciting news. Leave out the other details, because how much it cost isn't anyone else's business -- the point is that it symbolizes the commitment you're making. Everyone's going to be checking out your hand for the first few months anyway, so make it easy for friends and family to admire from afar. Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the bride and groom: Stay off your phone - designate a 'tweeter of honor' instead Enjoy your day and stay off your phone while still keeping everyone updated.Your wedding day will fly by, and if you're focused on your phone or tablet the whole time, you'll miss out on what's important. Enjoy the guests who have come to celebrate with you, instead of everyone in your social media circles. Strike a balance and designate a tweeter of honor -- it could be another bridesmaid who isn't your maid of honor (she'll have plenty of responsibilities already!) -- to keep your social networks updated throughout the day so you won't have to. Another option is to schedule tweets beforehand so they're ready to go without the hassle. Love this? Follow us on Pinterest. For the bride and groom: Send out traditional paper invites for the main event Email invites are totally okay for pre- and post-wedding parties! Paper invites are the way to go for the actual wedding day. In today's technology-based world, where your guests receive hundreds of emails a day, a physical invite has become that much more special. That doesn't mean you have to go over the top with an invite that sings and shoots confetti either. Simple card stock and laser printing will do the trick. A paperless invite for the rehearsal dinner or morning-after brunch is a great option (especially if you want to cut down on stationery costs). Just because the invites are electronic doesn't mean they won't have style or be personal to you. There are plenty of sites that let you customize e-invites so that they'll look beautiful and unique to you. Love this? Follow us on Pinterest.

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Want a classic round stone but an extra special setting? These stunning rings are not your average solitaire. Split-shank stunner A split-shank, pavé band means you get double the diamonds. Get the deets: $1,990 (not including center stone), TheRomanceDiamond.com Bow-inspired setting Layers upon layers of diamond bows make this engagement ring extra special. Get the deets: $2,590 (not including center stone), Scott Kay, Jarod.com Square-band solitaire We don't know what is more eye-catching--the fact that the band is square-shaped or that it's encrusted with diamonds. Get the deets: $11,530 (not including center stone), MichaelMCollection.com Blooming diamond halo A giant halo setting gives this ring a floral vibe. Get the deets: $4,410 (not including center stone), CoastDiamond.com Intricate antique-inspired ring A three-prong band with milgrain details looks delicate yet elaborate. Get the deets: $2,890 (not including center stone), KirkKara.com A hint of rose gold Mixing metals is one of our favorite trends. Just a touch of rose gold makes this ring really stand out. Get the deets: $2,470 (not including center stone), JeffCooperDesigns.com Ribbon-like band Having a split band is one (stunning!) way to spice up a solitaire. Get the deets: $2,280 (not including center stone), GabrielNY.com

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The 2014 Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix in Austin is fast approaching , and no doubt you've already got October 31 through November 2 crossed off on your calendar. As the 17th round of the 2014 Formula 1 championship season, the U.S. Grand Prix may well be a definitive race in this year's point standings. But how will you be watching the action? Television coverage is a last resort, but nothing beats standing trackside at race start. Last year, I took up Circuit of the Americas Experiences on their offer to host me at the U.S. Grand Prix. COTA Experiences offers a number of VIP-style packages that consider race-goers' budgets and the way they want to enjoy the U.S. GP weekend. The packages aren't for everyone; they're typically more expensive than just buying tickets and either finding a hotel or camping, and if you're the type of spectator that enjoys constant meandering around the track, you may find it difficult to enjoy all that a COTA Experiences package has to offer. But for convenience of booking an all-inclusive experience -- from meals to accommodations, the packages are tough to beat. COTA hosted me at a downtown Austin hotel, along with other participants, and offered charter bus service to the track each morning from that location. Once at the track, indoor and outdoor pavilions along Circuit of the Americas' front straight (dubbed the Paddock Club) allow for trackside viewing near the start/finish line along with complimentary food and drink (yes, "adult" beverages included). Pricier packages include seating at various turns, in the front straight stands, or in the pit lane Sky Boxes. During the day, there's often a visit from an honest-to-goodness Formula 1 driver from past to present (think Mario Andretti, Jackie Stewart, Esteban Guitierrez, etc.). At the end of the day, shuttles take the awe-struck, slightly buzzed, and well-fed participants back to their hotel, which is often located a short walk from downtown after-race festivities along with local restaurants and night life. Sound enticing? Check out cotaexperiences.com for more information or to book your package.

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Bored with your pure white kitchen? Try adding a dose of light or bright color to liven up your favorite room. Red & yellow accents "The dining chairs and kitchen stools are a typical bamboo Chippendale style, but in high-gloss lacquer they're surprising," designer Jesse Carrier says of a kitchen in a Florida house. "It's like they're candy-coated." The yellow glaze for the walls was inspired by the backsplash tile by Popham Design. The kitchen cabinets are original, but the countertops were updated with Caesarstone quartz. The warm patina of Circa Lighting's Goodman Hanging Lamps in antique brass adds contrast to all the bright colors. Mint green Folding windows open the kitchen up to the patio in a 1928 cottage designed by Kathryn M. Ireland. Custom tiles from Mission TileWest. Pendant lights from Liz's Antique Hardware. Owner Ursula Brooks says of the green color, "I didn't want the white house. Everyone was doing white, and it can be incredibly stylish. But this house is funky. It's not perfect, so color seemed the right thing to do." Pink refrigerator A pink Smeg refrigerator from Sears is the showstopper in the guest-suite kitchen of a Balboa, California, beach house. "How about that pink fridge? Isn't it great? It's tiny perfect for a small kitchen," designer Krista Ewart says. Lina rug from Plastica. Bright yellow walls Bright yellow walls Benjamin Moore's Inner Glow and an even brighter citron table from HB Home brought to life this white-and-gray North Carolina kitchen by designer Lindsey Coral Harper. Harper turned wire side tables from ABC Carpet & Home into stools. Dark brown floors were transformed with a large geometric pattern, painted by Jay C. Lohmann. Pendant light from Robert Abbey. Hugo Guinness prints from John Derian. Mint farmhouse kitchen For a new kitchen in Mount Kisco, New York, Shaker-style cabinets by Plain & Fancy, painted Teresa's Green by Farrow & Ball, have a wonderfully old-fashioned but surprisingly fresh look. Vintage pendants hung at different heights provide ambient and task lighting. The dark brass schoolhouse lights were found at Scherer's Architectural Antiques. Bright & beachy In the "California beachy" kitchen of designer Ruthie Sommers's Los Angeles house, vintage stools at the Calacatta marble island are covered in laminated Pintura studio linen. "I like all colors soft, light, shimmery, deep," she says. "I'm a watercolorist, and one thing I learned from painting landscapes is that if you're ever stuck, lighten your lights and darken you darks to create contrast. Colorful wallpaper William Morris's Tulip Frieze wallpaper from Sanderson and a metallic tile (unfortunately discontinued) add warmth and luster to a spacious room in a Long Island house. A custom-designed RangeCraft hood is paired with a Viking range top. Pot filler by Franke. Designer Stephen Sills found two antique light fixtures by Gilbert Poillerat and had two more made. The homeowners brought the clock from their previous kitchen. Traditional Adobe kitchen In Judith Espinar's Santa Fe, New Mexico, kitchen, the sunbaked yellow paint was custom-mixed and sets off a semicircle of Petatillo-style plates, topped by a platter from Capula, Mexico, above the Viking Professional Series range. Refrigerator and dishwasher also from Viking Professional Series. The Hansgrohe faucet has been discontinued in favor of a similar model, the Talis S HighArc. Whitehaus fireclay sink. Custom blue paint on cabinetry. Hardware from House of Antique Hardware. Shimmery blue In designer Sheila Bridges's New York City kitchen, the glint of silver in the Torino Damask wallpaper by Sheila Bridges works well with stainless steel: a Fisher & Paykel refrigerator, a Bosch dishwasher, a Bertazzoni range, and a GE microwave. Globe lantern by Alison Spear for Stephanie Odegard. Paint is Benjamin Moore's Hemlock on cabinets and Farrow & Ball's All White on floor. Green gingham ceiling In a Purchase, New York, kitchen, designer Gideon Mendelson created a green gingham ceiling that was first painted on canvas by Silvère Boureau. Mendelson says, "It gives a classic white kitchen personality, and it brings extremely high ceilings down to a more comfortable place." To further animate the room, Mendelson designed the island and painted it a custom bright green. Tomato-soup red walls "Tomato-soup red" walls and hand-painted striped floors pack a lot of personality into Liza Pulitzer Calhoun's Palm Beach, Florida, kitchen. Brown floor paint is Benjamin Moore's Bittersweet Chocolate. Green floors "This is a working kitchen, not a place to congregate," Bilhuber says of the space in a Locust Valley, New York, house. Woodwork is painted Pratt & Lambert's Pacific; the floor is Benjamin Moore's Courtyard Green. The scored-plaster walls and ceiling evoke the scratch coat under the Delft tiles in the kitchens of New York's Dutch settlers. Vintage lamps are mounted above salvaged sinks and a glass-paned refrigerator from True Manufacturing. Yellow tile Doing the kitchen in a Mexican hacienda in one color tile breaks with the Mexican tradition of "having a riot of colors," designer John Houshmand says. And doing it in yellow seems "totally American. It's a pretty darn happy place to be." He spent a year looking for the right color of glazed tiles and found a local factory to make them for him. Green & blue accessories Designer Jonathan Adler covered the Westchester, New York, kitchen's Norman Cherner counter stools and Trans.Luxe pendant light in Alan Campbell's Potalla in Jungle Green. For sculptural appeal, the shelves and Carrara marble countertops are amply stocked with Adler's pottery, including his giant stoneware horse bowl and lidded Apothecary of Emotions jars. The blue and white dishes are Villeroy & Boch. Cabinets are from Ikea. Stove and dishwasher are Viking. Jade green island Designers Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe brought a punch of color to this Malibu kitchen by painting the island a rich green Benjamin Moore's Jade Green. Exotic blue Open shelves for display break up the cabinetry in this Lake Michigan house's kitchen. Designer Martin Horner chose blue mercury-glass pendants from Gallery L7 to pick up the color theme and the home's exotic style. English sabre-leg counter stools from the Sterling Collection. Lacquered teal In the kitchen of a New York City apartment designed by Philip Gorrivan, iridescent mosaic tiles and a ceiling lacquered in Benjamin Moore's Oceanic Teal pick up color from the wallpaper in the hallway. Thonet barstools by York Street Studio. Roman shades in Homer wool in Verdigris by Gorrivan by Highland Court. Colorful backsplash Designers Jeff Lincoln and Hillary Thomas designed the kitchen in a Washington, D.C., house as a contemporary counterpoint to the rest of the house. They injected a jolt of color and graphics with a Turkish patterned tile from Ann Sacks and Absolute Black granite countertops. Lucite and leather Whiz barstools from Paston Rawleigh Everett "virtually disappear," Thomas says. Cabinetry by Boffi. Silvery kitchen ceiling In a Park Avenue apartment designed by Christina Murphy, a silvery wallpaper on the kitchen ceiling, Modern Nature Spherica by Schumacher, draws the eye upward. Modern Windsor stools are gathered around a Glassos stone-topped island. Walker Zanger tiles. Turquoise backsplash "The kitchen has a classic, timeless quality," designer Mona Ross Berman says of this New Jersey beach house, "with a few fun pops of color to keep it from being staid and predictable" like the fanciful valance in Arcadia Sulphur by Raoul Textiles and the Modwalls glass tile backsplash. Green gloss This Manhattan kitchen is small, but the owner has no trouble making braised short ribs for eight in it. Cabinets are lacquered in Bamboo Leaf by Fine Paints of Europe, as was the roller shade by Manhattan Shade & Glass. Even the Sub-Zero refrigerator is painted green. "I thought, 'Why replace this with a paneled kitchen?' I knew it would paint beautifully and that a strong brush of color would make it exciting," designer Miles Redd says. Blue island The custom-made island is topped with a two-inch-thick slab of statuary marble in a Manhattan kitchen. All faucets by Dornbracht. The circa-1960 Italian lamps played right into William Diamond and Anthony Baratta's color scheme. Retro yellow In a Chicago kitchen designed by Mick de Giulio, the walnut floor, hand-scraped to give it even more character, changes to a chevron pattern in the adjoining breakfast room. The same yellow paint, Benjamin Moore's HC10, unifies both rooms. Blue & white White Carrara marble countertops, finished with a traditional ogee edge, set off cabinets painted Benjamin Moore's Champion Cobalt in a Bridgehampton, New York, kitchen. The Sub-Zero 642 is paneled to match. A 36-inch dual-fuel Viking range is complemented by a Viking wall oven. Just above the oven, a tambour door hides a microwave. Dark green galley kitchen The front door opens directly into the galley kitchen, an integral part of the living room in Kristin Hein and Philip Cozzi's house near Cape Cod Bay. An exuberant 1940s Italian painted chandelier highlights the focal point for cooking and entertaining: an island supported by scrolled corbels modeled after gingerbread molding on historic Provincetown houses. Beyond end-grain maple countertops, Fireclay Vitrail backsplash tile skims the Bertazzoni range and a Kohler sink with a Waterstone faucet.

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Not quite sure which diamond shape suits your personality? We're here to help. Oval engagement ring Your style: In a word (okay three): over the top! Your relationship: Together you are more than the sum of your parts. Your wedding: Colorful and cool, with a very polished edge. No detail will be overlooked. Ring by The Sylvie Collection Colorful stone engagement ring Your style: Untraditional. Your relationship: You both do your own things but can t think of anything better than spending time with each other. Your wedding: You want to keep people on their toes when it comes to your wedding. The only thing your guests can count on is that it will be unlike any other they ve attended. Ring by Mark Broumand Halo-setting engagement ring Your style: Glamour girl. Your relationship: He can t believe he gets to spend the rest of his life with you -- and you feel the same way about him. Your wedding: Let s just say your groom will be blinded by all the glitter you ll be wearing as you walk down the aisle. Ring by Parade Design Black rhodium engagement ring Your style: Edgy and slightly wild. Your relationship: Your number-one relationship rule: Have fun together! Your wedding: A little moodiness only adds to the drama of a wedding, right? Ring by Danhov Bezel-setting engagement ring Your style: Minimalistic and modern. Your relationship: You guys like things simple and sweet. Your wedding: There will be no fuss and frills at your wedding. Ring by Mark Schneider Design Pear engagement ring Your style: Classic, but with a twist. Your relationship: Independent, yet utterly committed. You and your guy have each other's backs. Period. Your wedding: Contemporary and chic with trendy shots of color and fun, out-of-the-box ideas. Ring by A. Jaffe Marquise engagement ring Your style: Old Hollywood (think: silver screen siren). Your relationship: He puts you on a pedestal and lets you shine. But he's not afraid to help you laugh at yourself when you get too big for your britches. Your wedding: Pure glamour. You'll create an enchanted atmosphere that wedding guests will never forget. Ring by Jacob & Co. Heart engagement ring Your style: Shameless romantic. Your relationship: We bet your man is head over heels. Why? Guys don't exactly gravitate toward heart-shaped objects. So we're thinkin' he's all about making you smile. Your wedding: Ball gown? Check. Petal-covered aisle? Check. Ice sculpture(s)? Check. You definitely don't believe that less is more, and it shows. Ring by Tiffany & Co. Gold engagement ring Your style: Totally classic. Your relationship: A perfect date night is one spent cuddling at home. Your wedding: You're going to have all the trimmings of a traditional wedding: veil, roses and, of course, a little "something blue." Ring by Hoorsenbuhs for Forevermark Round engagement ring Your style: Traditional. You always look utterly put together. Your relationship: Bottom line: you're marrying your best friend. Here's to a lifetime of sharing inside jokes and having someone really get you. Your wedding: Relaxed, romantic and unfussy. It takes a lot of planning to make things look this effortless, but you'll pull it off. Ring by Jeff Cooper Designs Princess engagement ring Your style: Lover of all things sparkly. Your relationship: He treats you like a...yep, total princess. Your wedding: You may or may not arrive by horse-drawn carriage, opt for the biggest ball gown, or sport the tallest tiara -- but you're bound to have a royal blast. Ring by ArtCarved Emerald-cut engagement ring Your style: Sophisticated socialite -- aka uptown girl. Your relationship: You're the girl of his dreams and he's totally in awe. Your wedding: Voted "can't miss" event of the season (and not just by your mom). Destined to be the party where everyone hits the dance floor. Ring by Simon G. Jewelry Cushion-cut engagement ring Your style: You take your cues from the Grace Kellys of the world -- legendary women who demand to be set apart. Your relationship: He lets you be...well, you. Your wedding: So elegant and timeless that no one will be able to date the wedding photos afterward. Ring by Kwiat

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The holidays are upon us — but rather than kissing under the mistletoe or putting candles around the house, some couples are forging their own holiday traditions. Here are some nontraditional traditions from couples on TheNest.com that you can adopt as your own this holiday season. On the menu: My mother-in-law cooks "feasts from around the world" for Christmas instead of turkey. —luvmy2sons We sing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus and have birthday cake for dessert on Christmas Day. —dlpanda08 Gift wrap: My husband's side of the family wraps all their presents in newspaper, and if your present is wrapped in the car section or the funnies, you know it's a really good one. —mrslinhart My mom always wraps our gifts in boxes from the kitchen, like cereal and tea bag boxes. —rd3shny Under the tree (err … plant): My in-laws don't usually get a tree, so they just put the gifts around their largest potted plant. —mulan922 Everyone brings a funny gift all wrapped up and then we pick from a jar to see where to pass it next. —starstruck On my husband's dad's side of the family, we get each other really random gifts — a 1980s edition of Boggle from a yard sale, a toothbrush — anything completely out of the ordinary. —jenni23232 Family fun: We made a "no family on Christmas Day" rule. It sounds nuts, but we love having nowhere to go and no one to entertain. It's just the two of us in our pajamas! —lylas77 My family performs a doo-wop version of "I Have a Little Dreidel." Luckily you can't videotape in temple, so we don't run the risk of being caught on YouTube. —nest lauren After dinner, his family shoots guns outside. Picture me in high heels with those earmuff things and goggles on hitting bull's-eyes. It's totally weird but actually pretty fun. —kris10roc On Christmas Eve, we gamble and play various games for junk prizes. Think white elephant gifts and random things like lotto tickets. —Jaci_L We always go to the movies on Christmas Day. —sweetgrl18 More from Bing and MSN Lifestyle Site Search: See more on holiday traditions , quirky traditions and non-traditional holidays .

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A home makeover doesn't have to require new furniture, a trip to the hardware store, or a big budget. Here's how to style a space for an instant refresh. Use cut branches An organic element in a room will help it come alive. You don't have to spend a lot of money at the florist. Just take a pair of scissors out into your yard, clip a few branches or even just a single stem, and place in a vase. Design by Ann Pyne Stack wood in the fireplace Mantels can define a space with their architectural interest, but the hearth can drain a room visually it's a big, black hole. A stack of wood ready for a fire will help fill it out. In the spring and summer, try beautiful white birch logs for a lighter look. Design by Michael Formica Add a throw A pretty throw draped over a bench, sofa, or the back of a chair can be an instant update, adding both color and texture. It's also a simple way to relax a room, creating an inviting spot to curl up to read a book or take a nap. Design by Lee Ann Thornton Stack up on white towels Keep a stack of white towels in the bathroom. The monochromatic color scheme is aesthetically soothing, so the space will look crisp, fresh, and spa-like. Plus, they're a cinch to clean since you can always bleach them. Design by Peter Dunham Accessorize your coffee table A large coffee table can become a huge block of dark wood that weighs down a room. Try taking a few beautiful art books down off the shelf and using them to break up table's surface. The room will feel lighter and brighter and you'll likely enjoy your books more, too. Design by Lynn Morgan

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You can give your house a makeover without doing a big renovation - or having a big budget. These are some of our best home makeover tips: quick, simple and stylish. Embellish a fireplace Collect seashells to embellish a fireplace surround. In Liza Pulitzer Calhoun's Palm Beach, Florida, living room, the fireplace is made of concrete embedded with stones, shells, and barnacles. "I've collected them from all over the world," Calhoun says. Make your bed with all-white linens Dress your bed in all white for the summer. It's like floating on a cloud. In this dreamy white Hamptons bedroom decorated by Noel Jeffrey, the bed is upholstered in Christopher Hyland fabric and flanked by a pair of night tables that came with the house. Bed linens from Frette. Paint your closet Paint your bedroom closet a favorite color, like designer Jeannette Whitson did in her Nashville, Tennessee, house. Instead of the usual chrome rods and white backdrop, Whitson gave her closet a more luxurious look by painting it Benjamin Moore's Blue Dusk and hanging her clothes on unlacquered brass rods. Keep window treatments simple Sometimes the simplest window treatments are best. To create an enveloping, cocoon-like feeling in a New Jersey living room, William Cummings and Bernt Heiberg had the walls and ceiling custom colored to match the Decati Belgian linen on the Todi sofas and ottoman by Lucca & Co. The simple white linen roller blinds, based on an 18th-century Swedish design, appear throughout the house. Hang a wind chime Install a wind chime inside the house where it can catch a breeze. In Liza Pulitzer Calhoun's Palm Beach, Florida, dining room, shell chandeliers were custom made for the room. "I like them less for the light and more for the sound they make when the breeze hits them," she says. Bring the garden indoors Cut flowers and greenery from the yard for each room in your house. In the master bedroom reading area of a Hamptons house designed by Noel Jeffrey, a side table with a small plant and curtains in lavender raw silk by J. Robert Scott add to the relaxed and comfortable vibe. Create an impromptu outdoor space Set up an outdoor room anywhere, any way you can. In a California cottage decorated by Stephen Shubel, the owner sometimes commandeers furniture from her cellar and sets it up outside for alfresco dining under century-old oak trees. Add slipcovers Using slipcovers on your furniture is a quick way to make a change without making a huge commitment plus it's easier to clean. In a New Jersey house's master bedroom, designers William Cummings and Bernt Heiberg upholstered the headboard in a washable slipcover made from a C&C Milano linen. Paint something purple Paint a piece of furniture Kool-Aid purple. It's a quick and inexpensive way to get a similar look to this living room in Liza Pulitzer Calhoun's house in Palm Beach, Florida. The furniture sports upholstery in a rich grape color and eye-catching patterns. Hang a mirror Mirrors add and spread light wherever they're used. In the master bath of a Hamptons house decorated by Noel Jeffrey, mirrored doors make the room look even larger. Plant a garden Plant a little garden even just a few flowers by every doorway that leads into the house. On her front terrace, antiques dealer Jeannette Whitson designed a Charleston-inspired secret garden enclosed by pear trees espaliered on a trellis. Declutter your home Don't just clean up a room put away all the stuff that's accumulated on every flat surface. In a New Jersey house decorated by William Cummings and Bernt Heiberg, the space is kept clean and simple. "The homeowner is an extremely organized person and has a great personal aesthetic," Cummings says. "When we took these pictures, we didn't have to do the usual cleaning up and styling of the rooms." Add the color green Paint your home office leafy green, to create the feeling of a tree house, such as the home office in Liza Pulitzer Calhoun's Palm Beach, Florida, house. Use vintage garden accessories indoors Vintage garden accessories look even cooler when used to decorate inside. In the powder room of designer Jeannette Whitson's Nashville, Tennessee, house, a garden urn and a Pan fountain are the washbasin and waterspout. A brass finial serves as the faucet. Paint your fireplace If you don't like an architectural detail a brick fireplace, wood ceiling beams paint it chalky white. In the living room of a house in California wine country, designer Stephen Shubel painted the stone fireplace and Currey & Company's Rainforest chandelier a powdery white, and the walls and ceiling in a pale gray.

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Calling all daddies: Yes, once your wife becomes a mother (meaning from the time you've impregnated her until forever), you're responsible for making her feel special on Mother's Day. In fact, as long as baby is still gestating or otherwise unable to hold a glue stick, it's entirely up to you. Once junior starts getting crafty (say, age 3) or starts earning his own dough, you get to take it down a notch, but you'll still be obligated to make sure the kid follows through (and to at least buy a card, if not some flowers). No, she isn't your mother. But she's a mother and the holiday is for her — don't screw it up. If this holiday is totally new to you, never fear. Take the following tips to heart and your honey is sure to be a happy lady come May 9. Be Sweet Lucky for you, Mother's Day isn't really about expensive presents. It's about making a woman feel appreciated for her job as "mommy." Similar to Valentine's Day, simple gestures like flowers, candies or even a card with a handwritten message can mean the world. Don't forget to let baby sign the card too! (A couple of crayon scribbles are fine. Really.) Extra points if you have baby put her own little hand stamp on the card. Make a Plan Like my husband said, Mother's Day is for moms. So when it's your wife that you're honoring, think of what activities would best celebrate her mom-ness. Offer to clean the house or run errands so she can have an afternoon of stress-free playtime with the little one, or plan a fun family outing to a park or local festival. (Look for an event near you on Eventful.com.) Or if she's had an overload of mommy time lately? Heck, take over baby duty and send her out for a pedicure and a cocktail. Use the Baby Traditionally, the best Mother's Day gifts are sweet mementos. Consider preserving baby's handprints or footprints with a ceramic wall hanging like the ones at ByBaby.com (from $50), or stick a cute mommy-baby photo in a personalized frame like the silver-plated engravable frame at Pottery Barn (from $29, PotteryBarn.com). Better yet, double up with a frame-print combo like the gorgeous deluxe baby keepsake kit at RedEnvelope.com ($50). Want to go above and beyond? Book a family (or maternity) photo shoot with a local artist. (Check out LilaGuide.com for listings of photographers close to you.) Another goody that's sure to melt her heart: Surprise her with a modern "mom necklace" like the silver birthstone discs at SwankMommy.com (from $60). No Matter What, Do Something Just like any other holiday, if she says, "Oh, it's no big deal; you don't have to get me anything," don't buy it! Sure, she'll probably love you anyway. But chances are, she'll also be pretty disappointed. Whether it's breakfast in bed, a fancy mom-focused gift, helping baby make a handcrafted "#1 Mom" sign for the fridge or just giving her a little break, this is your chance to show her you appreciate her for being a great mom. Take it. (And just think ... Father's Day is right around the corner.)

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Whether you want to get your guests giggling or grabbing for the Kleenex, penning your promises will truly personalize your wedding. Steal ideas from these self-written vows from couples who crafted custom ones. Jevan to Alithea "I promise to love and care for you, and I will try in every way to be worthy of your love. I will always be honest with you, kind, patient and forgiving. I promise to try to be on time. But most of all, I promise to be a true and loyal friend to you. I love you." Amy and Russell to one another "You are my lover and my teacher, You are my model and my accomplice, And you are my true counterpart. I will love you, hold you and honor you, I will respect you, encourage you and cherish you, In health and sickness, Through sorrow and success, For all the days of my life." Laine and Shane to one another "I promise to be your lover, companion and friend, Your partner in parenthood, Your ally in conflict, Your greatest fan and your toughest adversary. Your comrade in adventure, Your student and your teacher, Your consolation in disappointment, Your accomplice in mischief. This is my sacred vow to you, my equal in all things. All things." Anne and Gabrielle to one another "I take you to be my partner for life I promise above all else to live in truth with you And to communicate fully and fearlessly, I give you my hand and my heart As a sanctuary of warmth and peace And pledge my love, devotion, faith and honor As I join my life to yours." Mike and Anne to one another "On this day, I give you my heart, My promise, That I will walk with you, Hand in hand, Wherever our journey leads us, Living, learning, loving, Together, Forever." Kristin and Josh to one another "I believe in you, the person you will grow to be and the couple we will be together. With my whole heart, I take you as my wife/husband, acknowledging and accepting your faults and strengths, as you do mine. I promise to be faithful and supportive and to always make our family's love and happiness my priority. I will be yours in plenty and in want, in sickness and in health, in failure and in triumph. I will dream with you, celebrate with you and walk beside you through whatever our lives may bring. You are my person my love and my life, today and always." Alex to Michelle "I promise to encourage your compassion, Because that is what makes you unique and wonderful. I promise to nurture your dreams, Because through them your soul shines. I promise to help shoulder our challenges, For there is nothing we cannot face if we stand together. I promise to be your partner in all things, Not possessing you, but working with you as a part of the whole. Lastly, I promise to you perfect love and perfect trust, For one lifetime with you could never be enough. This is my sacred vow to you, my equal in all things." Danielle to Gregory "You have been my best friend, mentor, playmate, confidant and my greatest challenge. But most importantly, you are the love of my life and you make me happier than I could ever imagine and more loved than I ever thought possible.... You have made me a better person, as our love for one another is reflected in the way I live my life. So I am truly blessed to be a part of your life, which as of today becomes our life together." Jessica to Greg "I remember once how I told you I did not believe in soul mates. I will never forget your reaction. Shocked and a little hurt that I did not think we were. But as time went by, your love made me believe." Mallory to Eddie "I promise to comfort you when the Falcons lose and drink beer with you when they win." Ryan to Tara "You know me better than anyone else in this world and somehow still you manage to love me. You are my best friend and one true love. There is still a part of me today that cannot believe that I'm the one who gets to marry you." Erin to Dash "I will, in good times and bad, cheer for the Tar Heels." Dash to Erin "I promise to buy taller shoes so you can wear heels." Christy to Meg "I feel truly blessed because I've found a love that transcends and grows, despite state lines, early morning commutes, barking beagles and conflicting seasons." Yuval to Dina "I see these vows not as promises but as privileges: I get to laugh with you and cry with you; care for you and share with you. I get to run with you and walk with you; build with you and live with you." Anja and Ben "The feeling hit me the moment we made eye contact in class. It was so immediate and powerful far deeper and inexplicably beyond any calculation of time and place. You don't describe a feeling like that. You also can't replicate it or force it. You just let it flow in and around you. You go where it takes you." Christopher to Ken "I promise faithfulness and patience, respect and lightheartedness, attentiveness and self-improvement. I will celebrate your triumphs, and love you all the more for your failures." Bill to Megan "Our open attitude toward finding adventure together in life is something that I cherish. I love it even more when those great experiences take the form of us making up a home-cooked meal together with a lot of great wine and music. I would marry you for your risotto alone!" Ronnie to Megan "I call you 'My Megan' because you are my everything. You are my light, and you've shown me more love than I've ever known." John to Brittany "I promise to hold your hand every night and to never let us lose our spark." Lois to Devin "I've always had goals, aspirations, things I wanted to do. But when I met you, I learned what it was to dream. You dreamed of traveling, but not just out of the state; you dreamed of visiting Spain, Italy and places I've only read about. I've learned to dream of the things I deserve." Adam to Lauren "I vow to have the patience that love demands, to speak when words are needed and to share in the silence when they are not." Gregory to Chandler "Until today, the day that I told you I loved you, the day that I knew I was going to marry you, that was the best day of my life." Eddie to Allie "I promise to be your navigator, consoler, sidekick, best friend and your husband. Finally, I promise you myself." Kendall to Justin "In sickness and in health: I promise to take care of you, even when you've over indulged the night before. For richer or for poorer: I promise not to spend all our money at Nordstrom."

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A stylish solution for every busy spot in your house. Fit a chic étagère into a bathroom corner for extra counter and storage space. Interior design by Ruthie Sommers Keep chaos at a minimum with a designated entryway spot for keys, wallets and sunglasses. Interior design by Sara Gilbane Keep blankets, pajamas, and extra linens at the foot of your bed concealed in a classic trunk. Interior design by Rela Gleason Short on bathroom storage? Hang a small shelf above your sink or surround your vanity with fabric and hide things underneath.Interior design by Scot Meacham Wood Showcase children's art on a designated wall rather than having it piled up on desks or hidden in closets. Interior design by Amanda Nisbet Opt for a dual-level coffee table for two-times the display area. Clear-up counter space by hanging cooking utensils. Interior design by Susan Serra File bills, papers, and other important documents into beautiful boxes and baskets. Interior design by Nina Farmer Keep your parking spot clear and hang tools, bikes, and everything else with hooks. Keep objects corralled with a tray. Interior design by John de Bastiani

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Switch out your sink for a colorful one, order some bold appliances, or give your backsplash a bright look. Lighting Open shelves for display break up the cabinetry in this Lake Michigan home's kitchen. Designer Martin Horner chose blue mercury-glass pendants from Gallery L7 to pick up the color theme and the home's exotic style. English sabre-leg counter stools from the Sterling Collection. Kitchen sink "Every great kitchen has a hook, that one unique element that just pulls you in," designer Mick De Giulio says. In the 2012 Kitchen of the Year, it comes in the form of an unexpected pop of color: a Riverby sink in Jonathan Adler's Annapolis Navy. Appliances A pink Smeg refrigerator from Sears is the showstopper in the guest-suite kitchen of a Balboa Island, California, beach cottage. "It's not really practical it's more like a dorm refrigerator," designer Krista Ewart says. "But boy, is it cute." Floors In this Manhattan apartment's kitchen, designers William Diamond and Anthony Baratta added a playful citrus pattern to bright blue floors. "Our clients a couple in their forties with two little girls wanted something zippy and up-to-date, but that still cast an admiring eye on the past," says Diamond. The lacquered chair is from Room, the Saarinen table from Knoll. Microwave and wall oven by Viking. Inside your cabinets In a Long Island kitchen designed by Stephen Sills, the deep blue interior Benjamin Moore's Blue Marguerite is a lovely surprise inside upper cabinets painted the color of vanilla ice cream. Porcelain knobs from LB Brass. Seating "The dining chairs and kitchen stools are a typical bamboo Chippendale style, but in high-gloss lacquer they're surprising," Jessie Carrier says of this Florida kitchen he designed with Mara Miller. "It's like they're candy-coated." Kitchen island Designers Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe brought a punch of color to this Malibu kitchen by painting the island a rich green Benjamin Moore's Jade Green. Wallpaper The glint of silver in the Torino Damask wallpaper by Sheila Bridges works well with stainless steel in her New York City kitchen: a Fisher & Paykel refrigerator, a Bosch dishwasher, a Bertazzoni range, and a GE microwave. "It's always a challenge to come up with something that's going to be exciting in a small space, and that wallpaper is unexpected," Bridges says. "there's nothing over the top about my kitchen, and the metallic wallpaper adds a little glamour." Backsplash "The kitchen has a classic, timeless quality, with a few fun pops of color to keep it from being staid and predictable," designer Mona Ross Berman says of a New Jersey beach house. The fanciful valance in Arcadia Sulphur by Raoul Textiles and the Modwalls glass tile backsplash add some excitement. Ceiling In the kitchen of a Manhattan apartment designed by Philip Gorrivan, iridescent mosaic tiles and a ceiling lacquered in Benjamin Moore's Oceanic Teal pick up a color from the wallpaper in the hallway. "I never ignore ceilings," Gorrivan says. "It's too much space to waste."

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Everybody lies. The lies may be small and harmless ("That haircut looks great!"; "I find your abs way better than Brad Pitt's"), or they may be big and serious ("No, honey, I didn't take out a second mortgage"). Even the "harmless" ones can destroy a relationship if they're sufficiently frequent. So how do you know if you're being hoodwinked? To start, it's important to know why people lie. While there are certainly individuals who fit the profile from the old car salesman joke (how do you know a car salesman is lying? His lips are moving) and lie simply because they can, it isn't the case with the majority of folks. "Most of the time, people lie when they don't feel safe telling the truth," observes relationship expert Dr. Jackie Black. That doesn't excuse the behavior, but it does suggest a relationship where one party is so afraid of disapproval, they decide it's easier to skip the truth. If you're having a problem and decline to discuss it with your partner because you're afraid of how they'll respond, they might feel the same way ... and they've likely been misleading you as well. What are other tip-offs? At first, he may avoid outright lying and become evasive. "Usually people are uncomfortable telling lies," says Dr. Black. "Men may stop being forthcoming; it might begin to feel like pulling teeth to have a conversation. When asked direct questions, he may avoid answering the questions directly or say, 'I don't know' a lot." Unsurprisingly, badgering him will rarely result in the truth, and he may lie simply to end the conversation. Once he gets away with one lie, more are soon to follow. Making it stop How do you stop the lying? Dr. Black says you need to build a relationship based on: 1. Acting with goodwill and good intentions 2. Treating your partner's feelings as if they were your own 3. Treating an environment of zero tolerance for adversarial energy between the two of you Or just hook each other up to polygraph machines. Deciphering the body talk On many occasions, the mouth and the body aren't in sync the words sound utterly convincing but everything else sends a very different message. Here are six of the most common physical indications of deception. While one or two are likely meaningless, if you see enough of them repeatedly, you should probably be concerned. 1. Covering the mouth while talking. It's as if they're subconsciously repressing the untruths they're spouting. It may be as blatant as completely concealing the mouth or as subtle as a single finger placed in front of the lips. 2. Touching the nose. Scientists have found that lying can cause the tissue in the nose to swell, meaning that a quick stroke could be a sign of deceit (or that it's allergy season). 3. Rubbing an eye. When lying to someone, the instinct is to look away in shame. Since that's a dead giveaway, many people content themselves with a fast wipe of the peepers. 4. Touching an ear. Just as you're supposed to see no evil, you should hear no evil as well. These nervous gestures can range from a small rub of the back of the ear to an outright yank of the ear lobe. 5. Going for the neck. Research has found lying can cause a tingling in the tissues of the neck, leading to scratching or pulling the collar. It signals that the speaker is feeling uncertainty, so be concerned if you see it right after your sweetie announces, "Of course this Prada dress was on the sales rack at Marshalls." 6. Shaking the head no while saying yes. If he says, "Yep, I'm getting home late because I have a big assignment to finish" while nodding his head, he's working late. If he sends the mixed message of saying yes while shaking his head no, look for him at the Spearmint Rhino (read: strip club).

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India Hicks, Kelly Wearstler, Alessandra Branca, and more top decorators and lifestyle bloggers share what they're coveting come May 12. A weekend in Rome "There is nothing I want more than a weekend with my children and husband in Rome, where we have a house. What would be heaven for me is walking those cobblestone streets, having an espresso at our favorite cafe, Sant'Eustachio, followed by a great lunch at Nino or Bolognese. We'd end with a great dinner at home, out on the terrace under the stars. But really, I'd be happy just having lunch alfresco anywhere with them!" Alessandra Branca, interior designerBing: Traveling with children Meyer lemon tree "I would love to get a pair of Meyer lemon trees in nice pots for my garden in Millbrook, New York. My aunt Robin makes delicious marmalade from the fruit, and I would love to try her recipe. The trees have pretty glossy leaves and the lemons have a wonderful citrus scent. As soon as you smell one, you want a tree or two yourself!" Katie Ridder, interior designerVideo: Fragrances that will wow your mom Flower seeds "I would love any flower seeds that my three girls can find me, although Wildseed Farms are my favorite. Growing fields of flowers and watching them bloom reminds me of being a mother." Ruthie Sommers, interior designer K. Jacques sandals "I'd like to go to the Smile in New York City for brunch with my kids. Afterwards, we'd walk over to Opening Ceremony, where they could buy me these sandals I've had my eye on!" Suzanne Grua-McGrath, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Good Bones, Great PiecesVideo: Earth-friendly Mother's Day gift ideas Necklace "I'd adore Heather Moore's beautiful gold, hand-stamped charms, which I'd have personalized with my kids' names. I love that you can mix and match gold and silver, juxtapose shapes, add a colorful gem or a pearl, and even add birthdays and sweet sentiments. Chic and timeless...a perfect way to be reminded of my little darlings!" Caitlin Wilson, textile designer Spa time "I'd love a handmade card from each of my four boys sharing a favorite time we've spent together. Also, I would be so grateful for some 'me time' and an afternoon at a spa could really be fabulous." Meg Braff, interior designer A beach getaway "A vacation! Not original, I know, but we've been working so hard, and I need some R&R with the sound of the ocean, the breeze, and perhaps a cocktail! Spending all day in a bathing suit would be just fine. I'm currently daydreaming about staying at Kamalame Cay in the Bahamas." Jennifer Mehditash, designer The 3Dooodler pen "This gadget lets you draw your own 3D objects. Imagine the fun we can have with that! And I am not sharing it with my kids." India Hicks, designer A Vitamix blender "I juice every day and we love to make smoothies at home. My boys and I are always experimenting with different fruit and veggie combinations. The Vitamix can even make homemade almond milk and nut butters!" Kelly Wearstler, designer An afternoon in the garden "We are taking a break from working on the inside of our home this spring to focus on the outside, and there's nothing I love more than an afternoon spent in the garden with my family. We recently planted a vegetable garden, and I'm thinking I'll finally have a reason to wear a wide brim sun hat! " Shaunna West, blogger, Perfectly Imperfect

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These smart tech devices do things you might never have thought possible or even imagined until now. A Smarter Planter Put in batteries, fill the water reservoir, and turn it on. This pot automatically dispenses the correct amount of water and nutrients (enough to last a month or two). Click & Grow Smartpot, $60 for starter kit. clickandgrow.com . Old-School Digital Notebook This Moleskine notebook, with specially designed paper, makes it easy to capture and digitize sketches and notes. Add them to your Evernote library, and they'll also be digitally searchable. Moleskine Evernote Smart Notebook, $25. moleskineus.com . Remote-Control Plug Use Wi-Fi to turn whatever's plugged into it on or off via your smartphone or tablet even if you're not at home. Belkin WeMo Switch, $50. belkin.com . Wearable Camera Feel as if life is passing you by? This tiny clip-on camera captures two images per minute whenever you wear it, geo tagging each picture as it's taken so you can search for and relive any moment. Memoto Camera, $280. memoto.com . Power Speaker Place compatible devices on top to wirelessly charge them. The speaker itself is also wireless, so you can take it anywhere. TDK Wireless Charging Speaker, $400. tdkperformance.com . Shower Tunes This rechargeable, wireless Bluetooth speaker delivers in-shower entertainment up to 32 feet from the source. After about seven hours of play, just pop the unit out of the showerhead for recharging. Kohler Moxie Showerhead/Wireless Speaker, $200. kohler.com . Interactive Lightbulbs Create a mood by fine-tuning the light in your home. These smartphone-controlled LED bulbs fit any standard fixture and can produce a range of nearly 16 million hues. Philips Hue Bulbs, $200 (starter pack). store.apple.com .

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Spring is the perfect time to scour your home and get rid of the grime that's been piling up all winter. Don't forget to scrub these 10 spots where filth likes to hibernate. Underside of rugs To remove dust and dirt that's gone deep down into the rug, simply flip it over and vacuum the underside. Blinds The material they're made of metal, wood, or fabric determines how you dust them. For metal blinds, wipe with a sock lightly dampened with water or multi-purpose cleaner. For wood blinds follow the same procedure using only a little tap water. Do not overwet the wood and be sure to buff dry right away. For fabric blinds, go over the blinds with a dry microfiber cloth. Credit cards These everyday essentials get handled by lots of people, and germs can lurk in the crevices around the numbers. Give debit and credit cards a quick cleaning with an alcohol wipe and let them air dry before placing them back in your wallet. Kitchen trash can Clean your can or the plastic liner in your utility room sink, the shower, or outside. (Be sure to disinfect the sink and shower afterwards). Thoroughly spray the trash can with a cleaner that contains bleach and let it stand for 10 minutes. Rinse and wipe clean. Before adding a new garbage bag, be sure the can is completely dry. Plants Outdoor plants are cleaned off by the rain, but houseplants become caked with dust. Spiff them up with water and a soft cloth, like an old t-shirt. Don't forget to inspect the dirt for mold. Overwatering plants can cause mold to develop on top of the soil. If you notice any, replace the soil. Purse Spot clean fabric bags with a gentle detergent solution like Woolite and flip the purse inside out to wipe down the inner lining. On finished leather purses, use a leather conditioning cleaner I love Guardsman Leather Wipes. And, if you place your purse on the floor in a restaurant or even worse, in the ladies' room, never put it on your kitchen table or countertop. Top of the refrigerator I guess it's true what they say: "out of sight, out of mind". This definitely applies to the top of the refrigerator. Don't forget to wipe it down when you do the sides and handles. Toothbrush holder Soak the holder in a solution of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water and rinse. Then air dry upside down. Or simply wash on the top rack of your dishwasher. Vacuum cleaner brushes & attachments You clean out the dust container or replace the bag routinely but when was the last time you cleaned the vacuum upholstery tool or brush roll? Check your manual for the how-to. Using scissors, cut off any carpet fibers or hair entangled around the brush. Yoga mat After a few sessions, you probably notice that your sweaty hands and feet are leaving dirty marks on your mat, which can lead to yucky bacteria growth. Most mat manufacturers recommend occasionally hand cleaning their products with water and mild soap. All-purpose cleaners can eat away at the material.

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From eye-catching wallpaper to stunning lighting fixtures, it's all in the details with these kitchen designs. Wallpaper William Morris's Tulip Frieze wallpaper from Sanderson and a metallic tile (unfortunately discontinued) add warmth and luster to a spacious room.A custom-designed RangeCraft hood is paired with a Viking range top. Pot filler by Franke. Designer Stephen Sills found two antique light fixtures by Gilbert Poillerat and had two more made. The homeowners brought the clock from their previous kitchen. Mirrors Mirrors add magic in the bar area of a Rye, New York, kitchen."They're definitely a little theatrical the more decorative element in a plain room," designer Louise Brooks says. "The basic idea goes back to an old Chippendale breakfront. We gave it a twist with that weathered gray finish on the wood, and antiqued mirror instead of glass." Statement piece A showstopping twig chandelier from Hudson Home brings a natural element, and some whimsy, inside the kitchen of an upstate New York house designed by Charles O. Schwarz III. Walls and ceiling are Slipper Satin by Farrow & Ball. An unusual island In a Brooklyn, New York, kitchen, designers Fitzhugh Karol and Lyndsay Caleo added a unique island to the small space. Brancusi would have liked this island, made from fallen oak and a hand-carved cherry log painted white.The honed Carrara marble counter is fitted with a 23 ¾-inch D-shaped undermount sink from Kingston Brass. A one-handled faucet by Elements of Design takes up less space and incorporates a pull-out spray. GE's 18-inch Profile dishwasher is adjacent. Walls are painted Benjamin Moore's Super White. Fireplace In architect William Hefner's Los Angeles, California kitchen, a small fireplace is elevated on the wall."The kitchen is really the only room we use during the week, so it had to have the things we wantd a view of the yard, and a fireplace," he says. "If we're spending so much time here, let's be able to build a fire and really enjoy it."Aspen Iron ceiling lights on the left feel a little more old-fashioned than the Bryant billiard fixture, both by Visual Comfort. Wall paint is Pratt & Lambert's Chalk Gray. Antique chest Designer Annie Brahler beefed up a vintage demilune chest by adding rear cabinets and a marble top to create the central island in her Jacksonville, Illinois, kitchen.The zinc architectural finial (at left), double-door cupboard, and bronze chandelier come from Holland, where gray-painted floors like this are traditional. Brahler treasures the worn upholstery of her 18th-century French armchair. Patterned ceiling In a Purchase, New York, kitchen, designer Gideon Mendelson created a green gingham ceiling that was first painted on canvas by Silvère Boureau.Mendelson says, "It gives a classic white kitchen personality, and it brings extremely high ceilings down to a more comfortable place."To further animate the room, Mendelson designed the island and painted it a custom bright green. Hidden appliances In a Mount Kisco, New York, farmhouse kitchen designed by Young Huh, Shaker-style cabinets by Plain & Fancy, painted Teresa's Green by Farrow & Ball, have a wonderfully old-fashioned but surprisingly fresh look. The Miele dishwasher has a cabinet front, so it doesn't break up the line of cabinetry under the counter. Colorful fridge A pink Smeg refrigerator from Sears is the showstopper in the guest-suite kitchen of Balboa Island, California, house."How about that pink fridge? Isn't it great?" designer Krista Ewart says. "It's tiny perfect for a small kitchen." Antique sink In an old wood kitchen in Los Angeles, California, Dornbracht's Tara Ultra Professional faucet is paired with a vintage sink."It must be a 100 years old," designer Chris Barrett says. "That sink, along with the old beams, really gives the kitchen the gravitas it needs."

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Simple blue-green cabinets and an old pine farm table recapture the spirit of a childhood kitchen. For kitchen design tips, read the interview with designer Young Huh. Farmhouse Table For a new kitchen in in Mount Kisco, New York, Shaker-style cabinets by Plain & Fancy, painted Teresa's Green by Farrow & Ball, have a wonderfully old-fashioned but surprisingly fresh look. Traditional pulls and latches from House of Antique Hardware. Soapstone counters and sink fabricated by Stepping Stones. Sub-Zero refrigerator. New White paint on walls and Pointing on trim, both by Farrow Ball. Vintage Pendant Lights Vintage pendants hung at different heights provide ambient and task lighting. The dark brass schoolhouse lights were found at Scherer's Architectural Antiques. "The homeowner is a serious cook," designer Young Huh says, "and she wanted that Wolf range" — it has six burners, a double griddle, and two ovens. Farmhouse table from Royal Port Antiques. Glass Cabinets Some cabinets are glass-fronted, to display special dishes and glassware. Paint in the mudroom beyond is Farrow & Ball's Arsenic. Hidden Appliance The Miele dishwasher has a cabinet front, so it doesn't break up the line of cabinetry under the counter. Perrin & Rowe bridge faucet on the farmhouse-style soapstone sink.

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From a fireplace in the bathroom to a chandelier above the tub, here are 10 cool and creative designs to transform any ordinary space. Stripes Video: In pictures -- 8 truly doable bathroom DIY upgradesDesigner Angela Free installed tiles to form wide, horizontal stripes in a 37-square-foot guest bathroom in a San Francisco, California house. "Stripes are a nice, graphic design element that can bring movement and pattern to a room, but not in a busy way," she says. By wrapping the pattern around the space, she opened it up and created "flow, a borderless space." Hidden medicine cabinets The medicine cabinets in this Michigan lake house bathroom are hidden behind the mirrors, a trick that works because they're so overscale.Bing: Hidden medicine cabinetsWant to do something similar? "Be sure the frame projects just enough off the wall so you can open it with one hand," architect Bill Ingram says. Fireplace Designer Peter Dunham added an unexpected twist to this bathroom in a Los Angeles home: a fireplace.Video: How to get bathroom decorating ideas"I flipped the positions of the bedroom and bath, which is why the bath now has the fireplace," he says. "It's extremely sexy and luxe, isn't it?" The photo, by Miguel Flores-Vianna, is from Nathan Turner. The Chinese tabouret and Caucasian carpet ottoman are from Hollywood at Home. Vintage dresser vanity Editor Zim Loy painted a vintage dresser black, added Creations ring pulls from Alno for a campaign-chest look, and turned it into a master bath vanity for her Italianate house in Kansas Ciy, Missouri.Bing: Vintage dresser bathroom vanitiesShe also fitted the piece with shallow Cheviot Estoril drop-in sinks, so even the top drawers are usable. Pebbled floor To create a spa-like feel in a Charlotte, North Carolina, bathroom, designer Barrie Benson added a pebble floor.Video: 2-minute home décor -- Signature style"Feet have the most pressure points in the body, and standing on smooth cobbled stones is very relaxing, even therapeutic," she says. "I had a good laugh with my client when she told me that stepping on those pebbles 'rocks her chakras.'" A faux window An Amanda Weil photo on glass creates a window where there is none in a Park Avenue master bathroom designed by homeowner Royce Pinkwater. The rest of the bathroom is done in pure white Thassos marble. "I like harmony and consistency in a home," she says. Bold wallpaper The small size of powder rooms means you'll spend less on materials, so they're great places to experiment. "I don't believe in very many rules, but I do love the idea that a powder room should always have loads of personality," designer Mona Ross Berman says of a bathroom in a New Jersey beach house. "And we took turquoise as far as it could go in this one." Wallpaper is Recessed from Studio Printworks. Under-cabinet lighting In this 42-square-foot bathroom in Dallas, Texas, designer Amanda Reilly didn't skimp on lighting. She even lit below the vanity, which is a great trick for the small room. "It highlights the open space underneath," she says. Cube tub by Wet Style. CaesarStone counter in Lagos Blue. A real rug In a Santa Ynez, California house, designer Mary Watkins Wood used a rug instead of a bath mat. Rugs are made to withstand a lot more wear than the occasional wet foot! A Waterworks Candide tub is painted Dunn-Edwards Slate. Chair covered in Scalamandre Feng Shui. Mecox ceramic garden seat. A ceiling-mounted medicine cabinet A small attic room in Tewksbury, New Jersey was transformed into a bathroom by designer Dan Ruhland. Since there was no wall space, Ruhland had to hang the medicine cabinet above the sink. "We found a way to use the shower rod system to hang it," he says. "Then we glued a mirror to the back, so it's mirrored on both sides."

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Mistake #1: Not Dealing with Debt We know it's not very romantic, but there are lots of financial to-dos the first year particularly if you want to set yourself up to buy a home within a few years. Money is the #1 thing couples fight about (and divorce over); dealing with the touchy topic now is key. What to do: Get your wedding debt out of the way ASAP! Otherwise it will just be the foundation of future debt. Tell each other up front about your personal debt because for better or worse, you just married it! Set up a financial game plan for your future. Mistake #2: Alienating Your Friends Friends are the foundation of a successful marriage, so you need to keep them as an important factor in your life (the single ones too). Don't just hide away with your sweetheart in married land! Three common ways you might alienate your best pals: 1. Ignoring them (it's okay for a month, but after that, get back out in the scene). 2. Pressuring them to get on the marriage track. 3. Always bringing him along. What to do: Make it clear to them early on that they are a key part of your life. Invite people over, go out with them (without your spouse), and make a point to be social, even if your schedule is tight. Mistake #3: Not Having Enough Sex Sex is incredibly important to a good marriage. But more than 60 percent of newlyweds surveyed were already in a sex rut! Three key reasons why: 1. It's a busy time in your life. 2. You're not feeling great about yourself (we'll get to that). 3. You're becoming complacent. What to do: Initiate sex, even if you don't feel like it. If you get in the habit of having it, you'll start wanting it more and liking it more too! Schedule sex. It should never be an afterthought.Talk about sex. Face the issues now, and get comfortable with talking about them. Get in the mood. Try to keep things a bit sexy between you, and don't underestimate the power of flirting (send a provocative email during the day this is our Nest-tested best foreplay formula). Mistake #4: Letting Yourself Go Yes, we mean gaining weight. Newlyweds put on the pounds starting with the honeymoon and never make the effort to take these "newlywed nine" off. Why bother, right? You've already found your mate! Three key reasons: 1. You're not as motivated. 2. You love playing house, cooking big meals, and indulging together. 3. You're too busy to watch what you're eating or head to the gym. What to do: Make a plan to get fit together or at least respect each other's goals. Give yourself a reward a bikini-clad vacation, perhaps? Seek support. Motivate each other. Get the pat on the back you deserve, without the criticism. Mistake #5: Letting the In-laws Become Out-laws Fifty percent of couples surveyed have a problematic relationship with their in-laws. This will only get worse as resentment arises and babies and other complications arrive on the scene. Key reasons: 1. This is a transitional time for your parents, who might try and hold on tighter when their kids are moving "away" to start their own families. 2. This is also a transitional time for you your parents might be emotional, but you don't want to make things worse. 3. It's frustrating to deal with another family. Let's face it it's sometimes hard enough to have your own. What to do: Be very clear about any boundaries right away (example: set up a schedule for holidays) to avoid false expectations (example: your mother-in-law piles on the guilt when you don't show up at Thanksgiving dinner). Never badmouth each other's families even if your spouse is complaining about his own. It's one thing to gripe about your own parents, but quite another to hear it from someone else. Support your partner's feelings, but don't add to them. Mistake #6: Fighting Unfairly Don't think it's okay to hit below the belt now that you're married. Disagreements are inevitable, but drawn-out grudge matches shouldn't be. Believe it or not, there are rules on how to fight fairly. What to do: Pick your battles. Know when to engage in an argument and when to let it go without resentment. When you're getting really heated, walk away, even if it's just to cool down for a few minutes. If you're too mad to think straight, the potential is higher for saying (or doing) something you'll regret. Move on to making up. That's the best part anyway, right? Skip the handshake and go straight for sex. Mistake #7: Becoming Obsessed with the Next Step Baby Newlyweds can become so obsessed with the next monumental step in their life that they forget to enjoy the present. Many couples who expect to have their first child approximately three years after being married actually end up starting a family earlier than they expected. What to do: Focus on your relationship. Enjoy the here-and-now time you have together. Savor the moments when you won't have to be waking up for a 4 a.m. feeding. Make foundations. Think about when the timing will be right for you and plan accordingly. If the idea is in your head even in the far-off future it might keep you from over-obsessing now.

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Keep spending to a minimum and fun to a maximum with these recession-proof date night ideas! 1. Fiesta Night The Nest staffer Lauren has this weird dream of wearing a sombrero with chips around the brim and salsa in a bowl on the top. We'll just ignore that and offer you this idea for some delicious and calienté amusement. Novelty sombreros: $10 Chips and salsa: $5 Doing the Mexican Hat Dance naked in said novelty sombreros: hilarious Total: $15 2. Kickball Positioning you and your sweetie on opposing teams makes for an excellent grudge match -- and great make-up sex later on. Kickball: $5 Big grassy field: free BYOB: free Cotton t-shirts and markers (clearly you need team jerseys): $2/each if you get at least 12 Losers buy the pizza: makes things much more interesting Total: around $10/person 3. Romantic Italian Meal While it's odd to say that dogs once epitomized romance, we loved the scene at the Italian restaurant in Lady and the Tramp. Skip the pricey pasta and opt for the cheaper (and cheesier!) pizza instead. Kissing isn't optional. 2 slices of pizza: $5 2 glasses of wine: $4 Ice cream for 2: $6 Total: $15 4. Fashion Show She loves Project Runway for the fashion and drama, he loves it for, well, Heidi Klum. Combine your passion for fashion and fun -- and then take it all off at home. Trying on ridiculous outfits at a vintage store: free Disposable camera: $6 Incriminating pictures: priceless Total: $6 5. Movie Night Miss the wild abandon of your college days? Have the gang over for beers and a movie -- but save the make-out session for later. Renting Old School : $5 Inviting your friends over: free Going really old school and having people throw in beer money at the door: awesome Going streaking through the quad: optional Popcorn for 20: $10 Total: $15 6. Watching the Sun Set Like our love lives, it's easy to overlook the beautiful things that happen around us every day. Watch the sun go down and then share a kiss under the stars. Blanket to sit on: $6 Sunglasses: $2/each at your local drugstore Lemonade: $1/each Total: $15 7. Poetry Night When it's done right, poetry can express love like no other medium. Remember Byron's "She walks in beauty like the night?" Well, bad poetry can be just as evocative -- and downright hilarious. Berets: $10 Espresso: $5 Trying to out-do one another with cheesy, horrific poetry about your love for one another: awesome Total: $15 8. People-watching aka Create Your Own Movie Not all dates have to be steamy! Simply spending time together is what dating is all about. Pick a beautiful day to sit on a bench in a park and marvel at the wonders -- and freaks! - of nature. Bottle of wine: $8 Plastic cups: $3 Bench: free Marveling at the wonders of the public: more fun than you think Total: $11 9. Silly Sex Night We'll let the Wikipedia entry for edible underwear speak for itself on this one: "Edible underwear is a type of undergarment that is formed of an edible material which can be consumed by the partner during sexual activity. In this case, pleasure is heightened by undressing the partner with the mouth. However, this sort of underwear is often given as a gag to friends couples." Edible panties: $6 Kama Sutra: $5 Keeping information to yourselves about the number of positions you try: please do Total: $11 10. Take a Bath Together Hot tubs are overrated! There's fun to be had in your very own bathroom. Rub-a-dub-dub, keep it sexy in the tub. Luxurious bath soap and salts: $8 Back-massaging Loofah: $5 Getting clean and being dirty at the same time: sexy Total: $13 Photo: Veer More from The Nest 100+ great date night ideas 50 sex questions you were afraid to ask Decadent date night desserts © 2008 The Knot Inc. All rights reserved.

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These bright, bold, and affordable accessories instantly perk up your kitchen. Spatulas A simple pop of color that will brighten the kitchen.More from MSN Living: Kitchen storage findsHandcrafted and painted in a range of eight cheerful hues by artisans in South Africa. Jacaranda Colorblocked Spatulas, $16 each. lydali.com. Vegetable brush One has stiff bristles for produce like potatoes, the other's are soft for delicates like mushrooms. And they nest! 2'n 1 Veggie Brush, $8. casabella.com. Dishcloths As bright and cheerful as a pocket square, these fit nicely in the hand and are super absorbent. Could make cute napkins, too. Waffle Dishcloths, 12" square, $18 for six. anthropologie.com. Measuring bowls The only measuring bowls you'll need. These bowls come in four sizes, have a gripping base to prevent spills, and because they're made of rubber you can "pinch & pour" to stop heavy batter from sticking to the bowl}. 4-Piece Pinch & Pour Prep Bowl Set, $15. crateandbarrel.com. Rolling pins Adds a pop of color to pie time. Dipped Wood Rolling Pin, $7-$19. westelm.com. Whisks Beat, spoon, and scrape with one of these whisks. Sur La Table by Tovolo Better Batter Whisks, $6-$13. surlatable.com. Timer With this bright pink timer, you will never burn dinner again. Pie Kitchen Timer, $14. Joseph Joseph. Napkins A rainbow for your table. Pure cotton hand-dyed and loom-woven in Kerala, India. Color Napkins, 15" square, $9 each. karaweaves.com. Flatware Comes in all the beloved Fiestaware colors have fun mixing and matching. Fiesta Flatware in Turquoise, $13 for five-piece place setting. jcp.com.

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Candleholder Looking for sumptuous home decor? Nine designers point out favorites from some of the world"s leading fashion houses, including Hermès, Goyard, Missoni, and more. "Goyard's candleholder is a perfect little luxury. The square case comes in their signature pattern, in all the classic colors. I keep one on my desk next to my Goyard notebook that's about as matchy as I get." Jeff AndrewsVersailles Candleholder, price on request. goyard.com. Salt and pepper shakers "Asprey's whimsical salt and pepper shakers are the epitome of British wit, yet the design can also blend into any tablescape." Fawn GalliChicken Leg Salt and Pepper Pots, $1,370. asprey.com. Backgammon board "Loro Piana's quality carries over into their home items. Everything is heirloom-worthy, and I covet the backgammon board. Who wouldn't want to spend an afternoon with something so magnificent?" Kristen McGinnisMy Backgammon Box, $6,975. loropiana.com. Pillow "I love everything in Missoni Home's Girandole collection in particular the pillows and poufs. The colors are bright and optimistic, and the prints have such an artistic quality. I recently used some on a client's turquoise sofa, and they look stunning. True conversation pieces!" Maria Gabriela BritoNoceda Pw Pillow, $625. missonihome.com. Tray "Georg Jensen makes exquisite jewelry and watches as well as sublime home accessories. I'm especially fond of their recent collaboration with Ilse Crawford. The precision of the proportions, the sensuous but cool clarity of line…who knew stainless steel could be graceful and lyrical?" Joan MichaelsIndulgence Oyster Tray, $275. georgjensen.com. Lamp L"All the pieces in Louis Vuitton's Objets Nomades collection of furniture and accessories are fantastic. I would hang Patricia Urquiola's Swing chair, a prototype, under Barber Osgerby's solar-powered Bell lamp. Voilà: a perfect spot for reading a book!" Sara StoryBell Lamp, $3,350, by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby. louisvuitton.com. Blanket "In every city I visit that has a Hermès store, I make a point of dropping by. I have many favorite pieces but love the wool and cashmere blankets above all. They're classics that look great in any room." Suzanne KaslerAvalon Extra-Large Blanket in Ecru/Orange, $2,800. hermes.com. Magazine rack "I have this leather magazine holder from Armani Casa at home. It's the most handsome catchall for newspapers and reading material. I tuck it next to the sofa or a chair, although it gets moved around a lot!" Katie LydonFollow Leather and Brass Magazine Rack, $2,240. armani.com. Desk accessories "I love Bottega Veneta's desk accessories. It looks as if they dipped one of their signature woven bags in polished nickel the items just gleam!" Adam HunterIntrecciato Desk Accessories, $240 $1,980. bottegaveneta.com.

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From a natural, open-air porch in Kenya to a glamorous Moroccan bathroom, these inspiring spaces have global style. Porch in Kenya In an open-air house in Kenya decorated by Suzanne Kasler, sinewy columns cut from fallen trees at Maralal flank South of Market outdoor sofas. No glass or other barrier separates the porch from the living room. "One night I was sitting on the open terrace working on my computer, and I looked up and I'm 2 feet away from a whole herd of Cape buffalo," homeowner Suzie Fehsenfeld says. "None of the animals come in the actual house, though. Sitting room in France In renowned conductor William Christie's 16th-century house in France, color and pattern are not confined to the fabrics they reappear on the walls and even the ceiling, painted in a glorious trompe l'oeil by François Roux. In this room, Roux mixed the motifs of Christie's two great passions, music and gardens. The 19th-century French chandelier was inspired by a 17th-century Dutch original. An antique fabric covers the table. Kitchen in Mexico Doing the kitchen in one color tile breaks with the Mexican tradition of "having a riot of colors," designer John Houshmand says of his hacienda in Mexico. And doing it in yellow seems "totally American. It's a pretty darn happy place to be." Dining room in London Walls covered in Lee Jofa's Holland Flamestitch velvet make for a showstopping yet intimate dining room in a London townhouse decorated by Rob Southern. "I like the contrast that the geometry of the pattern creates against the very proper English molding. Tension keeps things interesting," he says. A 19th-century Russian table, paired with custom chairs in a Coraggio leather, adds gleam and glamour. Collages by Paul Chan. Living room in the Bahamas In her living room, Amanda Lindroth's "very American and open and casual attitude" emanates partly from the leaning and overlapping pictures: "We collect paintings of the Bahamas from the late 19th to the early 20th century by notable American artists who passed through here in the winters but if our daughter, Eliza, draws something, it might land there, too." Adding to the ease is the Sunbrella stripe with which she dressed four 1960s armchairs that came with the Bahamas house. Bedroom in Rome Rich colors and a mix of patterns contribute to the exotic air in designer Patrick Gallagher's bedroom in his Rome apartment. Omexco Foja grass cloth covers the walls and sets off a bed upholstered in Gallagher's Daniella Stripe. Textiles he picked up on his travels were turned into pillows, accenting a coverlet made of Gallagher's Brewster Chenille. The Moroccan rug is laid on the diagonal, "to give it some energy," he explains. Bathroom in Morocco Author and blogger Maryam Montague's Moroccan bathroom is both glamorous and functional. "The pattern above the mirror is a stencil," she says. "There's also a chandelier, which I found in the souk, just above that. I'm a jewelry fanatic, so I designed hooks and hands for storing my pieces." Dining room in Norway In designer Nicolette Horn's house in Norway, her Bahamian upbringing inspired the decor. The intense green on the dining room walls is a dramatic counterpoint to a dining table set with handblown glass from Carl Rotter Glassware, silver goblets, and tall green vases from William Yeoward Crystal. Table and chairs in the Swedish style from Louis J. Solomon.

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Interior designer Scot Meacham Wood, formerly of Ralph Lauren and now owner of his eponymous design firm, solves design dilemmas in his weekly column, Ask a Designer. Here, we rounded up the common questions we've gotten from readers. By Sarah Yang Dilemma: How do I create the perfect gallery wall? "The best way to start is by deciding what you want to use to anchor the layout," Scot Meacham Wood says. "I usually vary the sizes of artwork, but I like having two or three large, important pieces to help focus the eye and they usually tend to hover towards the middle of the gallery space." If you're working with a group of artwork that's cohesive, you should stick frame styles and sizes that reflect the theme of the work. For example, hang similar images in the exact same size in a grid. If it's a larger collection with more variety, you should also vary the frame the styles. Design by Scot Meacham Wood Dilemma: How do I get recessed lighting right? For Wood, it's all about layering the light to create a warm glow in the room. "Let's try to think about it in terms of a chess game," he says. "I usually use recessed lighting in my projects as the "pawn" lighting. There may be a lot of them, but, they shouldn't be the most important sources of light in the room." Wood advises to put them on dimmers since they normally give off less-than-flattering light. To layer the light sources, make sure you have a nice mix of table lamps and floor lamps just below eye-level, and if you have enough ceiling height, include a central pendant. Design by Tobi Fairley Dilemma: Is it OK to place my bed on an angle? Sometimes you might need to place your bed on angle if the floor plan of your room provides no other way. "My general rule is that the simplest answer is usually always best," Wood says. "Floating a bed at an angle can be especially challenging because it actually takes up more floor space than one that is placed flat against a wall." He suggests setting the bed against the wall first, but if it works best at an angle, then go with that. "I would be cautious about using that idea in a smaller space," he says. "This bright, cheerful bedroom designed by Nick Olsen shows that with a little creativity, you can work a bed into even the smallest of spaces. Design by Nick Olsen Dilemma: How do I decorate my two-story foyer? "If you're lucky enough to have a soaring entryway, I say embrace it and unify the paint color throughout the space," Wood says. If the foyer has good windows and sunlight, he suggests trying a dark hue to add drama. Design by Scot Meacham Wood Dilemma: How can I update my kitchen cabinets? Wood shares four options for giving your kitchen cabinets a makeover. First, he says you can paint them, which is the best way to make the biggest change for the least investment. Second, you can switch out the drawer pulls and knobs for new ones that will give your space a fresh point of view in less than an hour. Third, you can install new cabinet faces Wood advises to call a professional to help with this project. And fourth, he suggests thinking outside your cabinets. "You can update the space around your cabinets," he says. "Try a new backsplash, wallpaper, or paint treatment." Design by Peter Dunham Dilemma: How do I decorate my small space? Don't treat your apartment as a transitional space where you'll leave in a few years. Instead, give it some personality. "Nothing makes a small space look tinier than having many small pieces of furniture in it," Wood says. "Though it seems contradictory, you're usually better served by having a few large, well-proportioned pieces instead. The same idea also applies to floor coverings nothing feels more depressing than a small room with a tiny rug." And in a small space, even the littlest changes can make a big impact. He suggests adding stylish details like real window treatments, layered lighting, and decorative artwork. Design by Ashley Whittaker Dilemma: How do I decorate with wallpaper? "Wallpaper is 'in,' totally and completely," Wood says. "While I'm shopping for my own clients, I'm seeing that the selection seems to be moving to the far ends of the design spectrum either very bold or very minimal." As for applications, Wood says you can think outside the "wall" in "wallpaper." Try covering a ceiling or lining bookcases to liven up a room. Design by Scot Meacham Wood

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From grassy backyards to open-air courtyards, these gardens are full of inspiration for your next outdoor project. Pool garden The swimming pool's clean lines highlight the natural charm of the lush hydrangeas and privet in the garden of a 1920s Shingle Style cottage in East Hampton, New York, designed by Robert Stilin. Colorful blooms For a garden outside of her Hamptons cottage, designer Podge Bune chose roses for their scent and didn't worry about color."I thought, 'Well, let's just have a riot.' I'm so bored with all white. But be warned. Roses are persnickety. I have to do a little nip and tuck every day." Victorian gazebo} Voluptuous 50-year-old wisteria vines drape a Victorian wire gazebo outside of a New York house by designer Robin Bell, with the assistance of landscape designer Deborah Nevins and architect Stephen Potters. Cloister garden The Cloister Garden in William Christie's 16th-century house in France features the classic rose Katharina Zeimet."The garden is very personal and breaks all the rules," Christie says. "But I am immensely happy and proud of it. I spend as much time as I can here. I don't need to take vacations anywhere else." Garden party Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller of Carrier and Company designed an outdoor dining area perfect for entertaining in the backyard of a Florida house. The colorful garden is anchored by a Chiswick bench from Janus et Cie. Pear trees trellis In Nashville, a new house with an old soul merges indoors with outdoors. On her front terrace, antiques dealer Jeannette Whitson designed a Charleston-inspired secret garden enclosed by pear trees espaliered on a trellis. An arched window adds architectural interest. Courtyard garden Tucked into the backyard of Lynn Morgan's Savannah row house, the walled courtyard garden is a fragrant oasis lush with jasmine, hydrangeas, orange trees, and creeping fig. Antique bricks and boxwood define the form, and crushed oyster shells cover the ground.The 1950s iron table and antique French garden chairs are shaded by a Pottery Barn umbrella. Garden design by Marshall Stone. Back garden dining area Even though designer Myra Hoefer's Healdsburg, California, house had a small, lackluster lawn, she turned it into a pocket paradise. Her inspiration? What she saw while working in Paris."I noticed that Parisians would turn balconies or pathways or little handkerchief-size terraces into these poetic spaces for lunch, drinks, dinner," she says. "Or someone would turn some nothing courtyard into an outdoor living room."In the back garden of her house, lunch is served in the shade of a massive camphor tree. Open-air courtyard The front door of this oceanfront Los Angeles house opens to a surprising open-air courtyard. Designer Chris Barrett clustered plants in antique pots on a concrete table from Inner Gardens. Metal garden chairs are from Hollyhock."The courtyard is the first room you enter, a sort of vestibule it just happens to be outside," Barrett says. "It's a sheltered haven with clusters of antique pots and lush plants and flowers, and it feels so good, so calm and nurturing. It was the first space I really tackled, kind of like a springboard for serenity." Rustic gazebo A stone faux-bois dining table from France and an iron gazebo from Anthropologie sit at the end of designer Jill Sharp Brinson's gravel driveway in her cottage house."The gazebo was on display at a mall store in Atlanta, and I lusted after it for years," she says. "One day I was there shopping and I saw a 'for sale' tag on it. I bought it on the spot."With the help of Dan Cleveland of Boxwoods Gardens and Gifts, Brinson planted waves of clipped boxwood, magnolia, hydrangea, anise, and holly to screen out the 20-story building just 15 feet away.

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Round shapes, pops of color, and layers of embellishments help give these living rooms their fun, cheerful style. Go round What makes a happy design? Designer Susan Noble Jones says, "Rounded shapes like the drum shades, the living room tables, and the tub. They soften a room and make a house more lovable and livable." Fambuena's Dress pendant satin ribbon wrapped over a metal frame has a feminine glamour and seems to float above the room. Jones chose the Ellington wing chairs by Dessin Fournir for their high backs. Painting by Margaret Evangeline. Add cheerful color "Color makes you happier," says designer Barry Dixon about a Capitol Hill row house. "The decadent dessert of those intense pinks in the living room makes your heart beat faster." French Club Chairs by Niermann Weeks. Tuscany ottoman by Stewart Furniture. Pillow in Schumacher's Reflex. Bergamo fabric on the wall. Go big with embellishments A sparkling, modern palette and a deft mix of patterns give designer Melissa Warner's West Hollywood living room its effervescence. "My boyfriend calls it Disneyland," the designer says of her apartment. "He says it's the happiest place on earth. The furniture is lighthearted, without a lot of hard edges. But I think it's the colors, patterns, and especially the dressmaker details on some of the classic pieces that bring it to a different place. I'm huge on the embellishments the flanges, the trims, the welting." Serena floor lamp by Oly. Ceramic stool from Forgotten Shanghai. Screen prints from Yolk. Walls are Soft Chamois by Benjamin Moore. Make it "no fuss" "Simple, clean, and inviting, with a little bit of glamour" was designer Lynn Morgan's goal when decorating her Savannah, Georgia, house. And it seems like comfort was key in this living room. "The house is about being comfortable, about entertaining, about friends and family," she says. "Its architecture is set off by bright colors in a way that creates a happy feeling, a pretty ambience. And you, know, I find that everyone wants a happy look these days." An ottoman in Zig Zag by Alan Campbell lends modern oomph between a pair of Louis XV-style bergeres. Make it big, bright, and bold Vibrant colors, a mix of patterns, and flowers everywhere real, painted, and printed on the sofa's Clover Poppy, from Hable Construction make the living room of a cottage in Balboa Island, California, "cheerful, bright, and playful," designer Krista Ewart says. Insert a punch of color In this Northern Michigan lake cottage, it all starts with white. Now add blue: Is there any other combination so ageless, so…right? Now add a punch of yellow and you've got the happiest rooms you'll ever see. A coffee table in the living room by designer Tom Stringer holds stacks of old National Geographics and also brings a surprising yellow hue to the space. "They added the perfect yellow punch," he says. "They're so classic just like blue and white. But we also knew they'd be great rainy day reading." Throughout the house, walls, trim, and ceiling are Benjamin Moore's White Dove. Break up neutrals The neutral living room in this Saratoga Springs, New York house gets some life from some accessories. "Neutrals can be really dull," designer Nancy Boszhardt says. "The family asked if I could make it feel happy here. And that's why I added the red table lamp, the red throw, and the hassock, to punch things up." Create calm In Royce Pinkwater's New York City living room, she and designer Eric Cohler chose soft soothing colors and crisp clean lines, without a lot of clutter and layering. "I feel happiness as soon as I enter my foyer. I feel it when I walk into the living room so cool and calm and light," she says. Mix bold colors Lavender, chartreuse, and aqua make a happy color combination in a Scarsdale, New York, living room. "They're bold colors," says designer Pat Healing, "so I used them only as punctuation." Bird's Nest Cocktail Table by HB Home; Campion chandelier, Urban Electric. Create intimate, cozy spaces Designer Benjamin Dhong created an intimate feeling in the living room of a San Francisco house. "Most people probably would have stuck all the furniture around the fireplace, with a sofa plopped dead center. But that would have cut the room in half. This feels intimate and expansive at the same time," he says. To get the cozy look, he arranged tables around the furniture. "I think a house absolutely has to have a lot of little tables to be happy," he says. "When you walk into a room and you see a little table or a stool pulled up to a chair, you immediately imagine curling up with a cup of coffee or a drink. You think: 'This is a happy house.' It's always open."

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Before Pinterest, teens on TV expressed personal style through their bedroom decor. These 10 rad rooms are responsible for inciting massive design envy in '90s kids. 'Beverly Hills, 90210' Pretty much everything about blonde, BMW convertible-driving teen queen Kelly Taylor was enviable, including her bedroom, which featured hyper-bright Warhol-esque prints of herself, mod table lamps, and a furry bedspread. 'Clarissa Explains It All' Clarissa Darling's bedroom was as eclectic as her personal style, and somehow she made an explosion of prints -- not to mention a collection of hubcaps and license plates -- work. Most importantly, her room featured an essential component of '90s: A window next to a large tree for her best friend to climb in and out of. 'Full House' DJ and Stephanie Tanner's enormous San Francisco bedroom is probably bigger than most studio apartments in the neighborhood, and big sis DJ's side of the room was the epitome of early '90s cool with her geometric-print bedspread, red-laquered bed frame, and Rhythm Nation-era Janet Jackson poster. 'Dawson's Creek' Dawson Leery's cinephile style extended to his bedroom, which was plastered with movie posters and, of course, featured a TV and VCR. (Ladder for Joey Potter to climb through the window? Check.) 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' When you're a teen witch living with your two aunts, you better be able to conjure up an awesome space. Sabrina Spellman's dreamy bedroom was on trend with its sun, moon, stars accessories and lava lamp. 'Home Improvement' Randy, Brad, and Mark Taylor might have had to share a bedroom, but it was a pretty rad one, which featured multiple levels and steps. 'Blossom' Blossom Russo's bedroom reflected her fearless personal style. More importantly, it had plenty of floor space for her to work on her sweet dance moves. 'Saved By the Bell' Zach Morris was no doubt the most popular kid at Bayside, but Screech Powers wins for best room. He owned his geeky genius status with a space-themed room, which featured a lofted bed and a personal robot. A robot. 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' Buffy Summers had a shaggy chic vibe going on in her bedroom, and though it was a bit unkempt, well, she was busy slaying vampires. There was, naturally, a window through which she could kiss Angel goodnight. 'Felicity' Felicity Porter's blue chair was pretty covetable, but what was most noteworthy about her "University of New York" dorm room was the sheer size of it, which a generation of disappointed bloggers are still writing about.

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The worst things that wedding guests have actually done (and what you should do instead). 1. Show up with a date who wasn't invited If you weren't allotted a plus-one, there's probably a reason. Maybe the couple wanted to only invite close friends and family to keep the wedding intimate; maybe the reception space is small; or maybe there were budget restraints (just one extra guest can mean up to $1,000 or even more depending on catering costs and all the other reception perks meant for invited friends and family to enjoy). Instead: If you feel uncomfortable attending alone, ask the bride or groom whether there are going to be any other singles at the wedding. They'll get the hint and hopefully seat you next to someone else who's also going stag. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 5 out of 5V BING: WHO WAS ON THE GUEST LIST FOR GEORGE CLOONEY'S WEDDING? 2. Incessantly text or take photos Hey Hollywood, get off your phone! The bride and groom presumably spent countless hours poring over wedding details to create an event that all their friends and family would truly enjoy. Besides, they hired a photographer, so leave it up to the pros and enjoy that signature cocktail. Instead: Maybe snap a few for Instagram during that amazing sunset at cocktail hour, but put your phone away during dinner and definitely during the ceremony. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5 BING: WHAT IS THE LATEST TREND IN WEDDING PHOTOS? 4. Stick your finger in the cake Believe it or not, guests do this. There's nothing cute or okay about touching the piece de resistance of the reception menu. Besides the sanitary factor, wedding cakes are expensive and should only be handled by three people: the bride, the groom and the caterer. Instead: It sounds ridiculous and should go without saying, but if you can't get close to a wedding cake without touching it, don't go near it. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5 5. Wear white We don't care if it's the middle of summer and your little white sundress is the most flattering thing in your closet. Do not, we repeat, do not wear white to someone else's wedding. Most brides have been looking forward to their moment in the spotlight -- as the only one in white. While it's true no one could possibly upstage the bride, it's considered the ultimate guest dress no-no. Instead: Colorful tones like pinks, yellows and purples are all fair game. Just stay away from anything in the white and ivory color family. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5 6. Use the wedding to hook up Yes, it's true, a wedding is a great place to meet other singles -- there's a great venue, lighting, food, everyone is dressed to the nines -- but please refrain from using the reception like you would a club. In other words, no making out on the dance floor with the bride's cousin or the groom's brother. Do you really want to be that guest? Instead: Hey, if sparks are really flying, feel free to ask for a number and make a date. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5 7. Give a roast toast Just because you have a microphone in your hand that doesn't give you free rein to tell the most outrageous college drinking story or reveal what happened in Vegas. It's also not the time to talk about old boyfriends or reveal the groom's most embarrassing habits. Instead: Give your speech the grandma test. If it's not PG-rated and something you'd be comfortable telling her, it's not wedding reception toast material. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5 8. Drink too much Your friend's wedding celebration is just that -- it's not a fraternity party. Know your limit and don't go over it. Making a fool of yourself in front of everyone, falling all over the place or leaving the party early because you couldn't handle your liquor isn't the way you want your best friend's new wife to remember you, is it? Instead: Save the shots for the bachelor party. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5 9. Let the kids run wild You know the scene: the shrieking kids terrorizing the dance floor during dinner, the toddler tantrum during the toast, the loud baby screaming over the vows during the ceremony -- all potentially nightmare situations for the couple getting married, not to mention the other guests . Instead: Confirm that there's child care available at the reception and make arrangements, or leave the kiddies at home for the evening. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5 10. Spill anything on the bride That gorgeous white wedding dress more than likely cost the bride a couple thousand. And while she probably won't have another reason to wear it again, a drink spilled on the wedding dress still ranks as one of the worst mistakes a guest could make. Instead: You can't be too careful holding a beverage near the bride. If you have a glass of red wine or Coke in your hand, put it down. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 5 out of 5 11. Hit on the waitstaff It might sound crass (because it is), but we've heard plenty of stories of rowdy guests corralling the waitstaff to dance with them. Not only is it completely inappropriate, it'll be really embarrassing when the catering manager pulls you aside to file a formal harassment complaint. Instead: Uh, just don't? Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5 12. Tell the DJ to change the music At your wedding, you get to choose the music. Otherwise, the tunes aren't in your control. You could end up requesting a song that was on the couple's do-not-play list (like, say, one with unsettling sentimental feelings attached). Instead: Unless the bride or groom expressly asks you to talk to the band or DJ about a song request, keep your song suggestions to yourself. Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5

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We asked you to post ideas for transforming a room on House Beautiful's Facebook page. Here are some favorites. Cabinet with punch "My living room cabinet was a nice, soft gray, a peaceful color, and I loved it for a while. But I decided it needed some punch! Benjamin Moore's Springtime Bloom gave it oomph" Lesli DeVito, Greenwood, Virginia Rock 'n roll "For instant cool, I added a rock 'n roll graphic and painted the bed." Tamara Anka Gordon, St.-Lazare, Canada Colorful pillows "Sometimes just adding a new cushion or two, or three to your sofa gives your friends the impression you've redecorated the entire space...shhh!" Leah Viney, Adelaide, Australia Lacquer "Freshen up an old chest with green lacquer and new knobs. Add a colorful printed fabric shade to a flea market lamp." Erin Benedict, Fullerton, California Display collection "Group and display a collection on inexpensive wall ledges. It gives it more impact while keeping it orderly." Erin Benedict, Fullerton, California Barn doors "My husband and I added these rolling barn doors in our open-floor-plan home and now we have options open for flow or closed for privacy. We ordered the hardware online, and it was cinch to install." Jennifer Napolitano, Southington, Connecticut Statement piece "We don't think it gets much easier than taking a functional piece, like this entryway 'gossip bench,' and giving it a much-needed makeover with fresh paint, new knobs, and modern fabric. It would take any foyer up a notch." Carly Martin and Melissa Vantoever, Charlottetown, Canada Curtained walls "If a room is full of windows and it's hard to place furniture, curtain the entire wall. It adds soft texture and allows you to arrange the room any way you want. You can even hang art in front for extra impact!" Emi K. Price, Ashley Gilbreath, and Amanda Reynolds, Montgomery, Alabama Decoupage "Have a piece of furniture with a damaged veneer that can't be easily repaired? Decoupage the surface with book pages for a unique and interesting new look." Gloria Fox, Roanoke, Virginia Unique wall art "In a stairwell with 15-foot-high white walls, I painted only the lower portion to match the front hallway. Then I applied vintage dictionary pages to divide the top and bottom." Amy Duncan, Everett, Washington

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We've gathered our most dramatic before and after pictures, including dining room, bathroom, and kitchen makeovers. Before: Dining room Designer Celerie Kemble chose to transform this corner of a Manhattan condo construction zone into a sumptuous dining nook.Video: 2-minute home décor - transformations After: Dining room Apartments like this have more than enough glass, so the corner banquette is built right up against the window, anchoring the room. Banquette covered in black coffee angora mohair from Clarence House is paired with a pedestal table from David Sutherland and chairs from Nancy Corzine.More on MSN Living: Readers' real home makeover ideas Before: Living room Designers Pat Healing and Dan Barsanti had the task of updating a long, narrow living room in Westport, Connecticut. The back-to-back sofa arrangement created long corridors on either side that accentuated the tunnel effect.Video: Reduce, recycle and repurpose After: Living room The designers added a pop of color in the accessories like the purple lamp and throw pillows that match the curtains. They created a focus with one seating area that is centered with a coffee table.More on MSN Living: 9 fabulous family rooms Before: Home office The study in this Brooklyn town house was already set up as a home office for the owners, but they wanted to make it a comfortable gathering place, too.More on House Beautiful: 20 stylish home offices After: Home office Designer Nate Berkus turned the space into a true multipurpose room, with a sitting area that's as inviting as the work area. Saddle leather, soft pillows, and a neutral palette tie the room together. Before: The hallway In designer T. Keller Donovan's Florida house, the hallway was a plain, overlooked space. He decided to transform it into a gallery. After: The hallway A blue and white color scheme brightens the hallway. For his gallery walls, he decided on a George Washington theme with antique prints of the first president. He also added white frames of various shapes and brackets to display objects. "You need a little variation within the theme," the designer says. "Different shapes make it look as if they were collected over time." Before: Garden room House Beautiful contributing editor Frances Schultz decided to turn the garage in her East Hampton, New York, cottage, into a garden room. "It has the best light and best views, it was where I'd likely hang out most particularly in the morning and in warmer months," she says. After: Garden room The garden room was transformed with a green and white palette. The Carleton V wallpaper makes the room crisp, summery and bold. Before: Living room A multipurpose living room in Los Angeles it serves as the lounge, library, dining area, and home office needed an update. "The room needs to be more flexible, but also more pulled together," designer Peter Dunham says. "It's missing a slouchy comfort, which is what it's all about in California." After: Living room Dunham organized the floor plan better. The seating is arranged for conversation, but there's also a separate work area that doesn't feel like a home office. "The room is better lit and more colorful and layered, making it very cozy and very California," he says. "The furniture is substantial and inviting, but it still has the textured patina the owner likes." Before: Kitchen Homeowner and Pinecone Hill's Annie Selke liked the efficient U shape but wanted to streamline the aesthetic of this dated kitchen in her 1960s ranch house. "My first reaction was, "Mexican tile? What were they thinking?" she says. After: Kitchen Silestone countertops in Grey Amazon are "more subtle" than granite according to Selke. Stainless-steel kickplates under the cabinets prevent scuffs and marry the two different woods. Plus, the Kraftmaid cabinets have cool features, like integrated cutting boards. Before: Bathroom The bathroom in designer T. Keller Donovan's Florida house has good bones and excellent features, but no spark. After: Bathroom Designer T. Keller Donovan's fond of blue (as you can see), and he used several shades to bring it all together. Don't be afraid to mix it up! The rug on the floor has a different pattern than the wallpaper and stool, but it still feels organic to the room due to its colors. Before: Media room In an Illinois house, the homeowners would wind up sitting on the floor to watch TV, because they couldn't figure out how to arrange the furniture. After: Media room "Now the adults can watch the news while the kids watch cartoons, and everyone's comfortable. The room has all these soaring angles, and I thought it needed a curve. That's why I chose a semicircular sofa. This is a young, lively family, so I wanted an upbeat color palette," says designer Marshall Watson. Before: Bedroom The owner of a Florida house says, "I had no idea how to fill my big, empty bedroom, much less give it any sense of style." After: Bedroom Unify an awkward space by focusing the room around the bed. "There was no symmetry whatsoever so I had to create symmetry, with matching tables and lamps flanking the bed," says designer Barclay Fryery. "The Venetian-style headboard is a real statement, with a shape that echoes the peak of the ceiling. The color scheme is very stately — just black, white, gray, and gold. But it's not stuffy, not with those Rita Hayworth-retro lamps, and I added a few sheepskins for a little fuzzy-fuzzy."

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From a kitchen in a barn to one designed completely in steel, you've never seen a kitchen like this before. Barn-turned-kitchen An old barn in Lake Forest, Illinois, was turned into kitchen, horse stalls and all. Designer Mick De Giulio repurposed the three horse stalls in the barn by giving each a function: one for storage, with a tall, freestanding pantry; one for cooking, with a Wolf wall oven; and one for cleanup, with a dishwasher, sink, and cupboards for the dishes. "We just worked with what was there and had fun with it," he says. Steel Sleek as a speedboat, this New York City kitchen designed by Anik Pearson is intricately detailed with gleaming wood and maritime hardware. The wall to the right of the cooktop was angled to match the doorway the kitchen is shaped like a boat, with the cooktop at the prow. A crown ceiling painted white, with Harbor lights from Urban Archaeology, casts a glow over the island. Green gloss The Manhattan kitchen is small, but the owner has no trouble making braised short ribs for eight in it. Cabinets are lacquered in Bamboo Leaf by Fine Paints of Europe, as was the roller shade by Manhattan Shade & Glass. Even the Sub-Zero refrigerator is painted green. "I thought, 'Why replace this with a paneled kitchen?' I knew it would paint beautifully and that a strong brush of color would make it exciting," designer Miles Redd says. Closet-size kitchen It's hard to tell, but designer Stephanie Stokes's New York City kitchen is only 48-square-feet. The mirrored backsplash gives the illusion of grandeur in the tiny space. Outdoor In Dianne Bernhard's Westport, Connecticut, kitchen, Plain & Fancy cabinets with Nantucket-style doors and blue-toned Caesarstone on top pick up the colors of the water just beyond the deck. "We really do live out here during the summer," Bernhard says. Ceiling is painted Benjamin Moore's Blue Springs. Zen This New Jersey kitchen has a Zen simplicity, with watery green marble counters and handcrafted wood cabinets modeled after traditional Japanese storage pieces. "When you arrive, you open a gate and walk through a courtyard to get to this very compact one-story house, where all the rooms flow into each other," designer Marguerite Rodgers says. "The spirit of the place reminded me of a Japanese teahouse. Retro Designer Krista Ewart used scalloped shapes throughout a Balboa Island beach house like in the kitchen island's trim and lighting. "That was a total theme," she says. "Scallops are feminine, but not overly feminine, a great old-fashioned smiley shape. They're young and happy like polka dots." The pink Smeg refrigerator from Sears is the showstopper in the guest-suite kitchen. Lina rug from Plastica. Nautical A charming cottage on Nantucket Harbor, decorated by Gary McBournie, features simple plank flooring painted Benjamin Moore's Deep Ocean and spattered in red, white, and blue. For decorative detail, McBournie studed vintage boating psoters and old photographs. The wooden grills of the kitchen cabinets were taken from an old photo of a 1920s yacht. Gingham ceiling In a Purchase, New York, kitchen, designer Gideon Mendelson created a green gingham ceiling that was first painted on canvas by Silvère Boureau. Mendelson says, "It gives a classic white kitchen personality, and it brings extremely high ceilings down to a more comfortable place." To further animate the room, Mendelson designed the island and painted it a custom bright green. Industrial Open shelves, instead of upper cabinets, give a small kitchen in designer Ken Fulk's Napa Valley house an airy feel. The shelves and countertops are made of galvanized metal and the cabinetry is made from old fencing. Vintage truck springs, used as stools, were found at Artefact Design & Salvage. Fulk spotted the vintage industrial pendant lights at the Paris flea market.

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30 days… Planning a wedding involves months (sometimes years) of endless details, pressing deadlines, family drama and far too often enough stress to make you just want to elope. Stop right there. Consider this your cheat sheet and secret weapon against such insanity. 1. Knock out the three big essentials: budget, guest list, and style. What's the dream reception look like? A small intimate dinner at your favorite restaurant? A dressy cocktail party? At the same time, figure out how much money you have to spend. The average wedding in 2012 cost close to $29,000, not including the honeymoon. A big budget influencer is the guest list. It costs more to invite more, so keep that in mind. Also, the average guest list is about 140 people. Because you're working within a short timeframe, and potential guests may have already made plans for the month, you'll probably end up with a smaller than average guest list. 2. Find and book a reception site, and set a date. The usual suspects (country clubs, ballrooms, hotels) might already be booked for Saturday night but call them anyway and try for a Friday or even Sunday afternoon or evening. Also, think outside the typical wedding venue and consider nearby restaurants with event space or large rooms that can be sectioned off. 3. Start a wedding website and set up a registry. It's free to create a website on TheKnot.com and having one is by far the best way to get info out to your guests quickly (and 30 days is quick!). Once you've set up your registries, link them from your website so that guests have an easy way to find where you're registered. 4. Send out invites. Sure, you could email your guests but we think a more personal alternative is still the best route for a wedding invite. You won't have time for custom, but check out stationery stores around your area for pre-printed invites or look online (Wedding Paper Divas and Minted.com have a ton of designs). If you have an extra small guest list and good penmanship, you could even send hand-written notes. Just don't forget to include your wedding website on the card so that everyone knows where to go for more info. 5. Find a wedding dress. There won't be time for fittings and custom orders but you still have a few options. Bridal salons host sample sales all the time where if you're lucky, you could buy and take a designer gown home with you same-day. Or, check out any number of popular ready-to-wear stores that are now carrying wedding-worthy white dresses. There's BHLDN with dreamy vintage-style dresses, Ann Taylor for classic and simple silhouettes, and even Nordstrom for the variety factor to name a few. 6. Decide on a suit or tux for him. This should be easy enough. Similar to the wedding dress, there won't be time to go custom but you still have the option to rent a tux from a Men's Wearhouse type of place. For classic suits, try Brooks Brothers or check out any number of stores like Zara and Top Man for affordable and totally on-trend styles. 7. Pick your bridal party and tell them what to wear. We recommend choosing a color and style and then asking your best girlfriends to find the closest match. So maybe it's that everyone needs to find a flowy chiffon dress in pink, or a knee-length dress in navy and any neckline goes. Or -- if it works with your style -- just ask them to wear their favorite LBD from their closet. The guys can rent tuxes, or you could have them wear their own suits and then buy them matching ties to coordinate the look. 8. Create an outline of the other vendors you need to hire, and start inquiring about your date. This is probably going to be your toughest task by far. In the very least, you're going to want to find a florist, photographer, videographer cake baker and band or DJ. Your best bet here: Let one vendor lead you to the next. If you find a photographer you love, ask them to recommend the rest of your vendors. BING: EXPERT WEDDING TIPS 25 days… 9. Book your photographer. This goes for all your wedding vendors: Call references to get first-hand reviews. Ask any and all questions you might have about their services before you sign a contract. You may be working on a tight deadline but that doesn't mean you don't have time for clarification. 10. Book your videographer. We can't stress it enough: the wedding goes by in a blur. You'll remember it better with a video from the day. In the very least, get someone to capture video of the ceremony. If your top pick is booked, ask them to recommend someone else who can help you. Maybe they have a talented second shooter who is available. 11. Book your cake baker(and caterer if it's not apart of your reception contract). Beyond frosting color and flavor and filling, there are a few other details to hash out. Get this all figured out during your design meeting. Once you've decided what it should look like, figure out how to display it and where you want it to go in the reception room.1 12. Book your florist(and arrange for any rentals). Typically, a florist will present you with a flower proposal. Then as you firm up details and plans, he or she will tweak and edit the proposal so that it meets your style and budget requirements. To expedite the process, you have to be extremely communicative and upfront about your budget (usually 8-10% of your total budget should go to décor) and style (bring lots of pictures to your meeting).Bing: Pick a wedding florist 13. Book a hair and makeup artist. It's a very good idea to schedule a trial run. This is your hair and face we're talking about! The good news is that if you end up booking with a hairstylist or makeup artist, the money you pay for the trial usually applies to the day rate. 14. Book your DJ or band. You probably won't have time to track them down and hear them live before you book, but at least listen to demos. Make sure they're from recent weddings. If it's a band, make sure the demo is representative of all the musicians who will actually play your wedding. BING: WEDDDING DESTINATIONS 20 days… 15. Plan the ceremony with your officiant and outline the program. If you have a minister or rabbi, you can pretty much just follow along the traditional ceremony outline, add in your reading and song picks and call it done. If you want a friend to oversee the ceremony, you'll need him or her to get ordained in order to make it official on the marriage license. Don't worry though -- it's a fast turnaround time to get ordained online. For example, you can apply to the Universal Life Church and have a confirmation ordination email back from them usually within 72 hours. 16. Decide on your honeymoon. Book flights and hotel rooms. The best deals can usually be found online mid-week on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. That's when air fares are typically at their lowest rates. If you don't have the patience to book through a travel site, call a travel agent. It sounds old-school but agents can help you get a trip booked with low-hassle and most of them are affordable or even free (many will take a cut from the hotel or airline instead of you). 17. Shop for wedding rings and order them. If you can't get the one you want in time, order the ones you love anyway and find a placeholder for the ceremony. Pick up a pair of inexpensive silver or gold bands at a jeweler in town. Or have a little fun with it and find your place holder wedding bands at an antique store or flea market. 18. Plan the rehearsal dinner and invite your bridal party (email or call with info and put it on your wedding website). This doesn't have to involve a five-star dining experience. Go casual and pick a restaurant with fun built-in décor (read: no extras needed). Simply call to reserve the back room or several tables. Ask about a large group menu or put in your order ahead of time and let the restaurant do the rest. BING: FIND YOUR PERFECT WEDDING DRESS 15 days… 19. Check in with your vendors and finalize plans with each of them. Confirm the ceremony outline with the officiant, run through the reception with your caterer or reception manager, iron out the flower proposal, choose the menu and cake, make a list of must-play songs and do-not-play songs, create a must-have list of photos and figure out your hair and makeup look. 20. Buy your veil, shoes and accessories -- and decide on your "something old, new, borrowed, and blue." 21. Get your final guest list count of who's coming and assign them to your seating chart (if you're having one). Find a free online seating chart tool on TheKnot.com. 22. Work on day-of paper elements including the ceremony program, escort cards. Print them yourself or take them to a local printer who will be able to get the job done for you on the spot or within a day. BING: FIND YOUR PERFECT WEDDING SHOES 10 days… 23. Confirm all final payment amounts, delivery and location times with your vendors. 24. Buy gifts (or favors) for guests, bridal party, parents and each other. Have gifts wrapped in the store if that's an option. You'll save time and the headache of tracking down wrapping supplies last-minute. 25. Shop and pack for the honeymoon. 26. Prepare your wedding toast or thank-yous to family and friends. BING WEDDING THANK-YOU NOTES 5 days… 27. Create a day-of schedule and contact list for parents, bridal party and vendors. 28. Apply for your marriage license together. You usually can't do this until a few days before the wedding anyway. Go online to find out what the cost and process is. Generally you'll have to pay between $30-50 for a marriage license and apply in person at your local county clerk's office or courthouse. 29. Put together an overnight bag for the wedding night. Put final payments and cash tips for vendors in envelopes and give to a friend to distribute. 30. Get married! (See? Told you it was possible.)

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From picturesque mountaintops and vineyards to white-sand beaches, check out our list of the hottest places in the world to get hitched. US: Maui, Hawaii Why get hitched here: Many visitors think of Maui as the most romantic Hawaiian island, perhaps because it's filled with waterfalls and rainbows. And its beaches are considered to be among the best anywhere, so it's a popular spot to wed. Guests will enjoy hitting the links on the west coast, or "Golf Coast," and surfers (or aspiring ones) will find some of the world's most famous waves here. Of course, snorkeling, kayaking, whale-watching and all the activities you'd expect from a tropical paradise are here as well. When to wed: Anytime -- year-round, temperatures are in the 70s and 80s during the day. Dry season runs May through October, but even in winter, rain showers are short and mild. If you're looking to save a little cash, avoid winter and early spring, when tourist season is in full swing. US: Lake Placid, New York Why get hitched here: Can you say "winter wedding"? Despite its location in the heart of the Adirondacks in upstate New York, this alpine village (and two-time Winter Olympics host) is anything but remote, with loads of activities and attractions -- and snowcapped settings backed with mountain vistas. Leave the glitz at home and choose a venue from among the cozy rustic-chic resorts and luxe lakeside lodges. You can even incorporate a gondola ride up Whiteface Mountain into your wedding. And if you're not feeling a wintry occasion, go for an outdoor fall ceremony surrounded by some of the country's most stunning foliage -- and get an even better view of the changing leaves by saying "I do" in a hot-air balloon! The region is dotted with 3,000 lakes (popular choices are Saranac Lake, Mirror Lake and, of course, Lake Placid), plus mountain streams and waterfalls that come to life in the spring -- providing a picturesque background for April or May nuptials. When to wed: Naturally, a winter resort area will be busy and more expensive during the winter months, but if you want a snowy wedding, try April when it's less crowded but there's still lots of lingering snow. In fall, the changing foliage usually peaks in the third week of October, so book your wedding date near then, and spring is beautiful, but have a backup plan for rain. US: Jackson Hole, Wyoming Why get hitched here: The majestic Tetons offer a breathtaking background for your nuptials (and the sunsets here simply can't be beat for romantic wedding pics and ceremonies), but you'll also find rustic ranches and a Wild West vibe in Jackson Hole if a Western theme (think: cowboy boots and hay benches) is more your style. Your guests can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, fly-fishing and checking out the local shops, museums, bars and live gunfights (seriously!) in town. When to wed: The summer and early fall are gorgeous in Jackson Hole, but late spring and fall can be unpredictable. Winter weddings are gorgeous here, but keep in mind: A big storm can make it difficult, or even impossible, for your guests to get there. US: Sea Island, Georgia Why get hitched here: With its turquoise waters and pristine beaches, Sea Island feels like the Caribbean, only without all the tourists cramping your wedding style -- the island's only visitors are guests of its two resorts. And the oceanfront setting on five miles of private beach couldn't be a more beautiful spot to say your "I dos." In addition to world-class fare and amenities, this tiny Georgian retreat has plenty of activities for your guests to enjoy, including golfing, tennis, horseback riding, boating, fishing, spa going and more. When to wed: The best times to go are in the late spring and summer, and in early fall. June, on the other hand, marks the start of the hurricane season. US: Aspen, Colorado Why get hitched here: This Rocky Mountain town possesses the perfect mix of natural beauty, rustic charm and posh amenities. In addition to luxe mountain lodges, you'll find elegant ballrooms and sleek restaurant spaces to host your wedding events. Aspen's gorgeous mountains and valleys will thrill any outdoors enthusiast, while its ample selection of high-end shops and swank restaurants can keep indoorsy types more than entertained. When to wed: While many couples choose to get married between late November and early March to create a winter wonderland wedding, keep in mind that summer and fall are also gorgeous (and less crowded) times of year here. Europe: Ireland Why get hitched here: If the words "fairy tale" define your idea of a dream wedding, get thee and thine (sorry, we couldn't help ourselves!) to Ireland. Amid the mist, not only does your chariot await, but so do your rolling hills, oceanside cliffs, quaint seaside villages, lush gardens, grand castles and country manors. The combination of the symbolic traditions, the genuine hospitality of the Irish people and the natural beauty of this richly romantic country make it an amazingly memorable spot to say your "I dos." And dramatic settings for your walk down the aisle abound, from breathtaking cliffs to Tudor-style churches and the hallowed splendor of a 15th-century castle. Meanwhile, the mix of culture, museums, sports, pubs and golfing will keep guests busy between wedding events. When to wed: The best weather is usually from May to September, but short showers are common throughout the year. Some accommodations close from October through March, especially in west and northwest Ireland, though prices and crowds tend to be lower then. And we probably don't need to tell you this, but St. Patrick's Day is kind of a big deal around here, so you may want to avoid that entire week. Europe: Loire Valley, France Why get hitched here: Just an hour outside the world's most romantic city (yep, we're talking about Paris) and its international airport (that would be Charles de Gaulle) is the chateau-rich and rolling Loire Valley, cherished for its fairy-tale castles, historic villages, charming people, wines and food. So basically, you've got everything you need for a dream destination wedding. You and your guests can also enjoy the country life: Take a wine-tasting tour; pay a visit to the Chateau d'Usse, said to be the setting of the French fairy tale Sleeping Beauty, in the village of Rigny-Usse; or take a taste (or two) of the beloved tarte Tatin (upside-down apple tart), which also makes a great dessert alternative. When to wed: Your best bets are April through June, and September through early November. While the weather is mild year-round, the rainy season varies by region and runs from mid-November through February. Don't book your nuptials for July and August unless you want to deal with huge crowds. Europe: Amalfi Coast, Italy Why get hitched here: When the backdrop for your wedding is a citrus grove that overlooks Italy's jaw-dropping Amalfi Coast, great wedding pictures take care of themselves. The Amalfi Drive is one of the most scenic stretches of Italian coastline, consisting of a winding cliff-top road offering dramatic views of the sea. Your guests will certainly enjoy the food and surroundings, so there's no need to stress over the menu or decor. And an itinerary filled with one-of-a-kind experiences, like a visit to the ruins of Pompeii, a boat trip through the Blue Grotto off Capri or a walk through the ancient, narrow streets of Naples's Old Spacca Quarter, will make for an unforgettable wedding weekend. When to wed: April through June, September and October are the best times to explore Italy, with mild temperatures and smaller crowds. August can get hot, and it's the month when most Italians go on vacation, so many shops, hotels and restaurants may be closed. Winters stay on the warmer side, with temps averaging around 50 degrees. Caribbean: Anguilla Why get hitched here: Tiny Anguilla, just 16 miles long and three miles wide, is one of the most exclusive spots in the Caribbean, and it's peppered with upscale resorts, four-star restaurants, unspoiled scenery and pristine white beaches (no cruise ships, high-rises or casinos allowed). You won't get a direct flight from the States (you'll have to take a boat from St. Martin), but we promise you and your guests will consider the destination well worth the extra travel time. As a bonus, native Anguillans are known for their hospitality, and the island is virtually crime-free. The island is also known for its delicious food (some of the best in the Caribbean), so you can rest assured that your guests will be well-fed. Any Anguillan agenda should include swimming, snorkeling and savoring the chance to wear shoes as infrequently as possible (barefoot ceremony, much?), but guests who are less beach-focused will enjoy exploring the island's archaeological and cultural sites. When to wed: While you should take note of hurricane season, which runs from June through November, temperatures are perfectly pleasant (highs in the low 80s and lows in the low 70s) year-round. Caribbean: Jamaica Why get hitched here: There's a reason glamorous globetrotters call it home (Ian Fleming wrote the first James Bond book, Casino Royale, from his seaside abode here). Jamaica offers much more than just beaches and palm trees -- it's steeped in culture: reggae, Rastafarianism, indigenous spices and a fun-loving, laid-back atmosphere. The site of many all-inclusive resorts, Jamaica can be one of the most affordable of the Caribbean islands on which to wed, but it has super-luxe options too, including private villas that come with their own chefs, housekeeping staffs and security. The resorts of Montego Bay offer the ultimate in service and convenience, the cliffs and beaches of Negril are great for intimate sunset ceremonies, and the gardens and waterfalls of Ocho Rios provide gorgeous backdrops. And scattered among the countryside are a host of Great Houses, old Georgian-style plantation homes with expansive grounds (one's even haunted!).W hen to wed: Avoid March, aka spring break season, as well as the hurricane season from June through November. Caribbean: St. Thomas and St. John Why get hitched here: Along with Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands may be one of the most hassle-free places to have a Caribbean destination wedding. There are lots of direct flights to St. Thomas (and St. John is a short ferry ride away), airfare is usually competitive, the US dollar is the official currency, and you should have great cell phone service. St. Thomas can sometimes feel a bit crowded, since it's a main stop on the itineraries of many cruise lines, and it's quite developed for the Caribbean. But it's nonetheless brimming over with natural beauty. St. John, while a bit harder to reach, is more rugged, unspoiled and higher-end, with fewer big resorts. Active guests will be in heaven: St. John is known for its plentiful and easily accessible snorkeling sites, as well as its national parks. In St. Thomas, suggest that guests visit the capital city of Charlotte Amalie to see historical sites such as Fort Christian and for tons and tons of duty-free shopping. When to wed: Tourist season is at a high from mid-December through mid-April, but highs are in the mid-80s and lows are in the 70s year-round if you want to steer clear of the crowds. Just avoid hurricane season, which runs from June through November. Mexico: San Miguel de Allende Why get hitched here: For old-world charm and romance (think: narrow cobblestone streets, tall, red stucco walls and Spanish-colonial style architecture) with a mountaintop backdrop and year-round sunny temps, you won't have to ask your guests to travel very far. Located just outside Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende is Mexico's newest hotspot, but this historic town dating back to the 1500s, is far from new. In fact, you'll find more historic buildings and monuments than modern mega-resorts in this provincial town brimming with culture. From gardens, centuries-old chapels and churches, Spanish-style courtyards and an array of boutique hotels that define understated elegance, charming ceremony and reception spots abound in this nearly 500-year-old town. And you won t have to worry about entertaining your guests between events -- the local galleries, restaurants, shopping, spas and numerous festivals that take place throughout the year, will keep them plenty busy. When to wed: The spring is one of the best times of year, because the temperatures are moderate, the flowers (azaleas and dogwood trees) are in full bloom, and the colors of the foliage make for a picture-perfect setting. Mexico: Zihuatanejo Why get hitched here: If you're craving a more low-key and secluded spot over action-packed resort cities and tourist crowds, this quaint fishing town on the Pacific coast (near Ixtapa) will satisfy big-time. The unspoiled beaches and colorful sunsets of this rustic beach locale make for an utterly romantic ceremony setting, and you'll have your pick of luxe resorts and boutique hotels -- all with an authentic local feel -- for celebrating your nuptials. Though it's a bit of a haul compared with other destinations in Mexico (there are no direct flights from the US), as soon as your guests land, they'll understand why you picked this off-the-beaten-path spot (and they'll be glad you did). Yours certainly won't feel like any other destination wedding in the always-popular Mexico. When to wed: Although Zihuatanejo isn't as popular with tourists and spring breakers as other areas, high season begins in mid-December and typically lasts through Easter, with the rainy season running from May through mid-October. Although temps may only top out at 90 degrees during the summer, the humidity can make it uncomfortably hot. Far-flung: South Africa Why get hitched here: South Africa has been called "A World in One Country," and it's easy to see why: Towering mountains rise over a vibrant and trendy Cape Town; ostrich-dotted grasslands stretch to connect quaint villages; monkey-filled forests line the deserted beaches of Natal; and the Stellenbosch wine route tucks vast vineyards into lush, fertile valleys. Then, of course, there are the lions (and giraffes and crocodiles...). South Africa's stunning landscapes, wildlife preserves and pristine beaches along the 2,174 miles of coast and rolling vineyards have made it an ideal vacation -- and exotic destination wedding -- spot. So it's the perfect locale for adventurous couples to throw a unique wedding for guests willing to make the trek. When to wed: Summer (December to February) is ideal for beach bashes, while winter (June to August) is best for game viewing if you want to give guests a wild treat. Average temperatures in Cape Town range from 64 degrees in winter to 80 in summer, so you're pretty safe year-round, but other regions can reach as high as 95 in the summer months. Far-flung: Tahiti Why get hitched here: There's a reason why French painter Paul Gauguin staged his most famous works in Tahiti -- the island is known worldwide for its picturesque landscape packed with palms, fragrant vanilla farms, vivid blooms and postcard-worthy rain forests. And there's an even better reason why it makes the far-flung list: It gets relatively few tourists (more people visit Hawaii in 10 days than visit Tahiti in a year!). So you and your guests will enjoy great service and crowd-free beaches. Recommend that your guests tour the capital city of Papeete and hit the Marche du Papeete (central market) for black pearls, carvings, shells, vanilla, coffee and perfumes, or make their way to popular spots like Papenoo, Punaauia and Paea for surfing. And for a fun welcome activity, treat guests to a Polynesian show with traditional music and twirling flaming torches. When to wed: The dry season runs from May to October, but evenings can be cool, so remind your guests to pack wraps and sweaters for the evening.

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The truth about weddings is that no matter how much you plan, there's really no way to script the entire day. Not everything will go as planned. Our advice: Read these wedding day stories for a little perspective, vow not to stress over the parts you can't control, and do everything you can to really enjoy your wedding day. Cake crash "Our cake table collapsed with the cake on it. Thankfully it was after we had cut it and had pictures taken of it. It fell on the tablecloth mostly in one piece and the caterer was able to salvage enough of it to serve to everyone. Everyone was saying 'Oh my goodness, she must be so upset.' But I just thought it was funny!" By: Jamie Miles Broken glass "I stepped on a piece of glass while I was barefoot on the dance floor. My husband and dad had to take me to the hospital. Luckily, when you show up to the ER in a wedding dress, they take you in right away! Otherwise I had an awesome time. We only missed the last 15 minutes of the party, and we still left for our honeymoon that weekend with me on crutches!" Garter slip up "For some reason, my memory had it that the best man is the one to remove the garter, so that's what we did. It was funny. Then the guy who caught it made a hilarious scene. My mother and aunt told me how strange it was that we did it that way the next day; they had never seen it before." Fire drill "During the reception the fire alarm went off. The staff quickly responded though and got it turned off. Some of our guests actually thought it was part of the song the DJ was playing and never even noticed!" Flooded reception "My sister got married in a church and we did the reception downstairs in the basement. It rained all day the day before and day-of, so when we showed up to the church in the morning the basement was flooded. We had to call people so they could try to clean it up as fast as possible. We ended up moving the cake upstairs and handed people their meals on the stairs so they didn't have to come down to the basement. The room didn't dry until the reception was almost over!" Accidental unveil "When my dad was giving me away, he stepped on my veil and it flew off my head. Everyone laughed and luckily my maid-of-honor got it back in my hair in a flash, and we started the ceremony. It actually turned out to be one of my fondest (funniest) memories from the day." Shuttle trouble "Our shuttle driver was supposed to make two runs from the hotel to our ceremony location. He left 20 minutes late for the first one, then didn't go back to do the second, stranding some of our guests. My husband and father had to tell him to go back and pick up the rest of the guests. As a result our ceremony started late." DJ dilemma "The fuse blew on our DJ's equipment halfway through the reception. Luckily I have awesome friends and they started a sing-a-long. Everyone got in a big circle, put their arms on each other's shoulders and started singing Piano Man. The DJ was able to fix the equipment and the party kept going. It was pretty awesome."

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There are a lot of wedding superstitions (both good and bad), but just trying to keep up with all of them will only add to your wedding stress. So skip it. This list has all the silly superstitions that are totally okay to ignore or put your own twist on if you choose! You can't see each other before the wedding The superstition: Back in the day, brides and grooms were prohibited from seeing each other until the last minute so that the groom didn't have the chance to change his mind. (Uh, yeah.) The custom eventually transformed into the idea that it was somehow unlucky for the groom to see his bride on their wedding day. Our take: Today, some couples stick to tradition because they like the excitement and anticipation of seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony. But we say, do what makes you most comfortable. We know lots of brides and grooms who have skipped tradition and stayed in the same room the night before, hung out and had breakfast together the morning of, and (most conveniently) scheduled their photo sessions together with their photographer before the ceremony. Steer clear of yellow roses (or you'll be green with envy) The superstition: During the Victorian era, "The Language of Flowers" a book that equated flowers with words and meanings was popularized all over Europe. According to the book, tulips stand for love and passion and stephanotis means marital happiness. On the flip side, yellow roses supposedly represent jealousy. Our take: If you love a flower, give it your own special meaning especially if it has some significance to you and don't worry about what those Victorians had to say about it. You're doomed if you drop the ring The superstition: As tradition goes, if someone dropped the ring during the ceremony, it meant that person would die! Our take: Obviously that's crazy talk. But it does bring up a good point if you have a ring bearer handling your rings, you want to ensure they're tied on tight and hand off that ring pillow to him at the last minute, just before he walks down the aisle. The bride has to be carried over the threshold The superstition: Ancient Romans believed that carrying the bride over the threshold of the couple's home protected her from evil spirits. Our take: Do it for fun when you get home from the honeymoon, if you want, as a nod to tradition. Or give it a twist walk hand-in-hand into your new home together instead! Don't get married on a Saturday, or in May, or on the 13th The superstition: There are actually several superstitions we're referencing here. According to English folklore, Saturday is the unluckiest day of the week to marry while Wednesday is supposed to be best of all. Then the fear of marrying in May actually dates back to the Romans who held their festival for the dead in May; there's even a nursery rhyme that reads, "Marry in the month of May, and you'll surely rue the day." And finally, there's the infamous unlucky number 13. Our take: Try booking your dream venue while following those rules and you'll understand why all of these superstitions need to leave the equation. Unless your family tradition dictates that you find a lucky or auspicious wedding date, choose a day that works for you and move on!

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Designers on the most important elements of a gorgeous backyard. 1. Create a little romance "Layer different types of lightinglanterns, pendant lights, candles and fairy lights and plants for an enchanted garden feel," says designer Sandy Koepke. "A pergola, salvaged windows, or an iron grate (or gate) can create the illusion of enclosure and a sense of intimacy, and you can still see the stars!" 2. Incorporate water "Wherever possible!" says designer Lee Ledbetter. "The calming sound of splashing water makes your space feel more intimate. Adds Wick: Whether it's a pool, hot tub, or simple fountain, it can add a serene and calming feel to any outdoor space." 3. Bring in garden stools "They are very easy to move around, and they create extra seating while also being great place for people to be able to put down a drink," says designer Grant Gibson. 4. Incorporate sculpture "Often, it's difficult to find locations in the interior of homes for sculpture, especially large pieces," says designer Will Wick. "There's no excuse outdoors, and really nothing adds to an outdoor space like a beautiful, large sculpture." 5. Make the fireplace the heart of your space "It's gorgeous from inside the house and extends the indoor rooms right to the outdoors," says Koepke. "As an anchor for a seating area, it's a magnet. Everyone wants to cuddle up there, and it's guaranteed to extend the party. Guests want to hang out there and stay a little longer. Some of the best conversations are around the fire." 6. Bring in potted plants "While I dislike using potted plants indoors, they're a great accessory for outdoor seating areas," says Ledbetter. "Potted plants provide different scale, color, and texture than what you get from a broader landscape."Seen here in an outdoor area by designer Mark D. Sikes. 7. Think globally for inspiration "Don't be afraid to let global designs inspire you," says Wick. "I appreciate Moroccan fashions, African tribal designs…even teepees!"Seen here in an outdoor area by designer Tim Givens. 8. Create an outdoor kitchen that you love to use "...and is easy to maintain. And choose work surfaces that can handle the elements," explains Koepke. "Think about a sink and running water, both ambient and task lighting, outlets for the blender for house margaritas and the grill! Side burners are great for sauces. A small refrigerator or wine cooler or a kegerator are not essential but definitely fun, and the real party magnet is a pizza oven! Make the space work for small groups or entertaining, and think about the layout and configuration for cooking and serving. Last, consider the orientation of the kitchen so the sight lines are beautiful from inside the house. The great thing about an outdoor kitchen is that the cook is truly the star of the party!" 9. Create a drinks station Not able to build an entire kitchen? A drinks station will do. "That way people can serve themselves and not have to keep going inside," says designer Grant Gibson. "They can help themselves, and it is less stressful on the host!"Seen here in an outdoor area by designer Erin Martin. 10. Match outdoor architecture to what's happening indoors "Design an outdoor room with an iron or wood pergola and marry it to your home's architecture for the illusion that it has always been there," says Koepke. "The open rafters provide some structure for vines and climbing roses, and they also give the opportunity for various types of lighting, lanterns and hanging plants. Architectural salvage creates instant character and sense of place; vintage lighting, old windows and doors, columns, door surrounds and shutters add so much personality and character. Sometimes finding that one special piece of architectural salvage is the inspiration for the whole project."

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From Nantucket all the way to Cayo Espanto, we've rounded up some of the prettiest beaches to travel to for your honeymoon. Little Palm Island, Florida Keys Why go: Once you step foot on this serene, palm-fringed island, you'll be shocked that you're still in The States perfect for passportless couples or those who aren't up for a long plane ride after their wedding. Where to stay: The island's only lodging, exclusive Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, promises privacy by the boatload. Surprise your groom by preordering off their amazing menu of arrival amenities from a pitcher of the hotel's famous Gumby Slumber to a fancy caviar and champagne spread (from $690, LittlePalmIsland.com). What to do: Indulge in a Madrugada water massage (the therapist stands in the ocean while you lie supported above the crystal-blue waters), and then dine in private by the glow of tiki torches, with your toes in the sand, at Harbor Point.--Maridel Reyes and Nancy Rones Aruba Why go: This southern Caribbean favorite isn't called "one happy island" for nothing: Besides wide expanses of sand, you'll soak in seemingly endless sunny days (it rarely rains), a hopping nightlife, and a variety of activities on land and at sea. You'll be one happy couple, that's for sure. Where to stay: Fronting gorgeous Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba opened last year and is pretty much the definition of posh. Have breakfast alfresco every morning all 320 rooms come with balconies with partial or full ocean views (from $449, RitzCarlton.com/aruba). What to do: During the day traverse rugged terrain via Land Rover before refreshing together in the Natural Pool (DePalmTours.com). Before sunset, head downtown to Oranjestad's Pinchos Grill & Bar (PinchosAruba.com), a casual but über-romantic, above-water eatery that's located along a picturesque pier Barbados Why go: Rihanna's beautiful birthplace offers more than 70 miles of sun-drenched beaches and a warm blend of English, African and West Indian influences that separates it from more vanilla seaside spots. Where to stay: At Little Good Harbour, one of the last family-run oceanfront hotels on the west coast of Barbados, you'll find casually luxurious cottages and warm and attentive staff who will make you feel right at home (from $310, LittleGoodHarbourBarbados.com). What to do: A must-hit on Fridays? Oistins Fish Fry, where you'll hang with locals and chow down on tuna, marlin and mahi-mahi. Dinner starts at 7 p.m., but go early (grab a cab it's about a 45-minute drive) for a chance to feed the turtles. Riviera Maya, Mexico Why go: From may US cities, a quick flight lands you on the powder-soft beaches of this lush stretch outside Cancun. Amenity-packed lodgings provide creature comforts while eco-parks, historic ruins and water sports keep you as busy as you want to be. Where to stay: An antidote for post-wedding stress, the chic adults-only Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraíso sits on a large strip of sand and exudes tranquility. For a little variety, stroll over to four neighboring Iberostar hotels, where Grand Hotel Paraíso guests have full access (all-inclusive from $247 per person, Iberostar.com). What to do: Visit Tulum, and go way (way!) back in time as you marvel at ancient Mayan ruins not to mention one of the area's most breathtaking beaches. Yasawa Island, Fiji Why go: Plenty of places call themselves "paradise," but this far-flung South Pacific island that's home to epic white-sand beaches is the real deal. Where to stay: Yasawa Island Resort and Spa is this destination's sole sanctuary for visitors. We're obsessed with their exotic beachfront bures (thatched-roof bungalows); book the secluded honeymoon bure that they call Lomalagi. The translation? "Heaven" (from $1,800 including food and most activities, Yasawa.com). What to do: Pack a lunch, snorkel gear and a walkie-talkie and have the staff leave you on a deserted island for the afternoon. For more aquatic sightseeing, visit the Blue Lagoon caves. Crete, Greece Why go: The largest of the Greek islands has major eye candy: picturesque fishing villages, mountains and beaches. Be sure to bring an extra memory card for your camera. Where to stay: Carved into a hillside over the Aegean Sea, Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas is a chic escape where you can laze along a crescent-shaped beach. Water skis, speedboats and luxury yachts (with a skipper!) are all available (from $365, DaiosCoveCrete.com). What to do: Visit The Palace of Knossos, first excavated in the early 1900s. Sip ouzo at a taverna in the port city of Agios Nikolaos. Kauai, Hawaii Why go: This tropical locale makes our list every year and for good reason. Dramatic cliffs, insane sunsets, beaches that suit every mood and activity, and a friendly aloha spirit keep honeymooners coming back to get lei'd! Where to stay: Expect postcard views and excellent snorkeling at the sophisticated St. Regis Princeville on the North Shore. Leave room in your budget for a meal at Kaua'i Grill, a to-die-for restaurant created by celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten (from $450, StRegisPrinceville.com). What to do: Skim across Hanalei Bay in a stand-up paddleboard lesson, or get eye-popping views of the island via helicopter. Harbour Island, Bahamas Why go: Go with "something blue" for your wedding, but try "something pink" for your honeymoon. The iconic blush-colored sands and mostly car-free streets (golf carts are big) on this upscale Out Island will shift you right into vacation mode. Where to stay: You'll dig the boho-glam vibe and the sherbet-colored cottages at the Pink Sands Resort (from $495, PinkSandsResort.com). What to do: Shop at the Straw Market, where, yes, you can buy straw hats and bags, but also decorative conches and handmade jewelry. Take a cooking class with the resort's chef, who specializes in local cuisine like Caribbean Pepperpot (a take on gumbo). Nantucket, Massachusetts Why go: Does your ideal date include time spent strolling hand in hand? You'll do plenty of that in this quaint New England town while breathing the freshest salt air ever. Where to stay: Set between the calm Nantucket Bay and the livelier Atlantic Ocean, The Wauwinet has two private beaches. Amenities include a boat to ferry you to town (from $595, Wauwinet.com). What to do: Bike to Cisco Brewers (CiscoBrewers.com) for a tour and, of course, beer samples. Go four-wheeling to the island's remote northwest tip, where you can climb the Great Point Lighthouse and scope out seals (tours led by The Trustees of Reservations, TheTrustees.org). Cayo Espanto, Belize Why go: This teeny, super-chic one-resort private island, located off the coast of mainland Belize, lets you focus solely on your newly minted spouse and completely escape from reality. Where to stay: Separated by dense mangroves, each of the seven island-style beach villas on Cayo Espanto has a dock over the turquoise waters, a plunge pool (except the over-water villa), and a house attendant. Meals are tailored to your specific tastes (all-inclusive from $1,495, APrivateIsland.com). What to do: At your villa, indulge in a side-by-side coffee scrub spa treatment. Afterwards venture out to scuba dive along the world's second-largest barrier reef (and unlike the one in Australia, this one is just two hours by plane from Miami).

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Whether you're a Dr. Phil-loving, self-help junkie or more of a Wall Street Journal type, we've got relationship advice you'll both appreciate. The best part: You already learned it all — in freshman Economics 101 class. WTH are we talking about? It's actually pretty straightforward, say Paula Szuchman and Jenny Anderson, authors of Spousonomics: Using Economics to Master Love, Marriage, and Dirty Dishes (aka the most rational relationship book we've ever read). See, economics is all about the allocation of resources, and if you think about it, so are relationships. How you two decide to spend your resources — money, time, energy, libidos, closet space — determines whether your relationship will be a boom, or a bust. Pretty logical, huh? So read on to find out more about what Szuchman and Anderson have dubbed "spousonomics," or how basic economic principles can help you solve your most common and annoying issues. The Principle: Supply and Demand Demand for a product or service tends to go up when the costs go down. Applied to: Out of Sync Sex Life When sex is expensive (translation: it requires mucho effort, because you're exhausted, you have to convince your partner, you think it has to be mind-blowing every time...), we want less of it and demand goes down (along with your libido). If you want to go at it again like you did when you first started dating, make sex more "affordable." So if one of you is always too tired, save the sexathon for the weekend and agree to a few quickies during the week. If your horndog partner is sick of asking and getting shot down, simply tell her when you're actually in the mood instead. Holding out for when you both have the energy to hit a home run or set the perfect mood (and therefore, batting zero)? Agree to have bad sex . That's right. Shooting for the moon every time requires a lot of energy and time, and we're gonna guess, you don't have a huge supply of either. So settle for plain old regular sex sometimes. Because a) Sex is rarely ever actually bad b) The higher the expectations, the more work (i.e., the higher the cost) and c) There's this other economic principle called "rational addiction," which says that the more you do something, the better you get at it, and the more you want it. In other words, just do it! The Principle: Transparency A constant exchange of information is required for the economy to run effectively, because the more information we have, the more likely we are to make smart decisions. Applied to: Passive aggressive behavior You expect your partner to know what you want or need without telling him. Because if he really loved you, he would know, right? Um, only if you managed to score a mind-reading man! Don't feel like talking about what's bugging you but still expect your girlfriend to know you need space (and not to take it personally) ? You'd better hope she has ESP, or you're just asking for more stress. Listen, the point is, guessing is costly — it can be time-consuming, stressful and cause conflict (like when you guess wrong). In fact, most fights could be avoided if you were just upfront with each other about your expectations and needs. Oh, but telling him what you want for your anniversary isn't "romantic," you say? Well, then keep dropping "hints" but insisting you don't want "anything but his love," and see how that goes. Or, you could send him the link to the bracelet you've been eyeing, and, well, you know how that will go! Don't make your partner work to make you happy, and he'll be a lot more inclined to do it. (See? Supply and demand at work!) Just keep in mind: There is such thing as TMI and it's called "Information Overload" in economics. If you go from telling her you hate when she leaves the gas tank on empty to rattling off everything she's ever done wrong, it's likely next time you get behind the wheels, you'll run out of gas before you even make it to the station. One thing at a time, folks. The Principle: Loss Aversion The tendency for people to prefer avoiding loss over acquiring equivalent gains, which often leads to risky behavior and sunk costs. Applied to: Escalating Arguments When a small squabble over whose turn it is to do the dishes turns into WWIII and continues long after you've forgotten what you were even arguing about in the first place, it's time for a timeout. And no, we don't care how many experts (including Grams whose been married for over 50 years) have said, "Never go to bed angry." It's a load of baloney! Sleeping on it (read: an 8-hour time out), is typically far more beneficial to your relationship than trying to resolve an escalating fight. See, once an argument has taken on a life of its own, you're no longer working toward a resolution, you're in it to win it — at all costs (including your relationship). We (meaning all humans) hate to lose so much that even if we're only squabbling over something as trivial as who gets to hold the remote, once we get going, we'll do anything not to lose the argument, even resorting to low-blows, name-calling and dragging up old issues. You've invested so much in the fight at this point, you both refuse to cut your losses, just like the gambler who continues to bet long after he's lost his rent rather than walk away a loser (hence, all those pawn shops next to casinos). But no matter who gets the final word, you both ultimately lose — sleep, the season finale of The Good Wife , or respect for your partner (door-slamming, really?). Just recognizing this natural propensity to want to win at all costs can help you stop yourselves next time a difference of opinion begins to spiral out of control. Then, do yourselves a favor and sleep on it, or walk away for an hour. A break allows your emotions to subside and you more rational self to return, so you can avoid bringing down the whole house, so to speak. It works for traders, and it can work for you too. Sure, you might still be upset the next morning, but you'll be more capable of resolving the issue without name-calling or door-slamming. The Principle: Moral Hazard People tend to take more risks when there are no consequences (or perceived consequences). For instance, people who have car insurance, don't drive as carefully, because they know they're protected and therefore, insurers get more claims than expected (and rates go up). Applied to: Taking each other for granted Not sure what happened to that romantic, sexy, go-with-the-flow gal you moved in with? The one who once worked out religiously and never forgot to shave or shower? Now that you're spoken for and "no longer posing to be chosen," it's easy to get a little too comfortable in your relationship. Translation: You no longer feel the need to try, because your partner's not going anywhere ... at least not until the lease is up. Or so you think. The cold hard reality: The divorce rate still hovers around 50 percent, and studies show that couples that live together before getting married are even more likely to get divorced. Bottom line: Never assume that your relationship is too big to fail. Sure, you're probably not going to throw in the towel over some stubble or a bit o' belly, but you might if your sex life falters. So follow the government's lead and impose a few relationship regulations (aka fines for slacking off ): No razor today? No boom-boom tonight. (Guys, this goes for your face too, not just her legs.) Forget to call when you're working late? You have to make dinner for the rest of the week. You swap the sweats for nighties, he'll give you a back rub. By the way, these are all examples of another economic concept we'll get to shortly, called "incentives," and they're a great way to get your partner to do what you want. Kinda genius, huh? The Principle: Division of Labor People are better off specializing than trying to do everything. The economy runs more efficiently when the workforce is divided into different crafts and professions, and everyone does performs the tasks in which they have a "comparative advantage" (read: they are better at) and use the income earned performing those tasks to meet their other needs. Applied to: Labor Disputes In other words, don't just take turns vacuuming or split the chores 50-50. Unless you're one of those freaks-of-nature that just really finds scrubbing the toilet "relaxing," your goal should be to get it all done as quickly and painlessly as possible. And the best way to do that is by divvying up the duties based on what you're each relatively better at — or like more (since you tend to be better at things you enjoy or at least, don't hate). If you're more skilled at washing the pots and pans without scratching them, then, from here on out, that should be your job and your job alone. And if she's better at keeping track of the finances, then that's all hers. Period. True, on a given night you may spend more time washing the dishes than she spends paying the bills, but over the long haul, it will all even out (like at tax time). And if you start nitpicking over how the bed is made, then it's time to either reassign the task to the more skilled (or picky) bed-maker or to chill out about those hospital corners. Your pick. The Principle: Trade-Offs When there's a limited number of resources, you have to give up some (or all) of one thing to get more (or all) of another thing. For example, the more a country spends on guns, the less it has to spend on education. Economists employ a cost-benefit analysis, in which the costs of something are weighted against its benefits, to make decisions involving tradeoffs. Applied to: Disagreements You want to move to the 'burbs, so you're future rugrats have a yard to run around. He wants to stay in the city, 'cause said future rugrats won't know their father if he has to waste two hours a day commuting. Unless you have the funds to buy a country house and a pied a tierre in the city, you're going to have to implement a few tradeoffs. Consider the costs and benefits of each choice (commute vs. yard, convenience vs. space, etc.) and decide which tradeoffs you're both willing to live with. Maybe he agrees to move to the suburbs and deal with the commute, but not until you have two kids. In the meantime, you'll stay in the city and convert the office into a nursery when you're ready for the first one. Or, you may need to just start "thinking at the margins" (yet another economic concept!). Translation: Maybe you don't ever need to leave the city — maybe you just need a bigger apartment. See? Everyone's happy. But when the tradeoffs don't work out so nicely (she gets the house in the 'burbs and you don't get anything but a long train ride), remember: Marriage is a long-term investment, and like economies, relationships are dynamic. She may be the person who wants to have sex more today, but that could change in five years when her career takes off. So whatever loss you take today, could merit a payback down the road. The Principle: Intertemporal Choice The decisions individuals make today affect what options become available in the future. By choosing not to consume today, future consumption levels could increase (and vice versa). In other words, if you save for retirement today, you will have more money to spend when you retire. Applied to: Putting your relationship last You always say you're going to make it home for dinner, but then that project comes up ... Or you swear you'll start being nice to his nutball mother ... next time. It's easy to put off being a better partner or investing more time in your relationship until tomorrow. After all, your partner's still going to be there still tomorrow, right? But wait! Remember what we told you about moral hazard? It's great that you want to be a better partner, but postponing the good stuff is what does relationships in. How do you find the time and motivation to be a better partner when you're busy and stressed? The same way you get yourself to save for retirement when you have a million bills and expenses to pay: It's called a "commitment device," which is like signing up to have part of your paycheck automatically deposited into your savings account or telling your boss in the morning that you have to leave by 6 p.m. so there's no excuse to miss dinner. The Principle: Incentives Rewards or punishments designed to encourage certain behavior. Applied to: A stubborn spouse You want your partner to help out more around the house, or be more romantic, so you nag, threaten and/or punish. But she never changes. Not surprising, according to economists, who have found that guilt, nagging and punishments aren't nearly as effective as trust and praise in terms of motivating people to do things. Translation: If you want your guy to be more romantic, praise him every time he does something even slightly romantic rather than berating him when he doesn't. You want your girlfriend to lay off on the whole micromanaging your entire lives? Let her know how amazing she is whenever she chills out, and hey, maybe do something romantic to reward her (told you you'd both like this advice!). She'll have a much better reason to lay off the scheduling than when you ignore her. Just keep in mind that while praise is more effective for achieving long-lasting change, it doesn't guarantee that a few compliments will transform your partner overnight. Your significant other may not do the dishes as soon as dinner's over just because you told her how awesome she was last time she did it. But that doesn't mean she's not going to remember how much she liked being told how wonderful she was and get to them the next morning. Relax. Dirty dishes never killed anyone. But if you really can't stand to have them sitting in the sink for a few hours, consider dishwashing your comparative advantage and add them to your chore list. Paula Szuchman and Jenny Anderson are both journalists, wives and the authors of Spousonomics: Using Economics to Master Love, Marriage, And Dirty Dishes , who use spousonomics to make their own relationships run smoothly. More from The Nest 10 signs your guy is in a bromance Are you guys too close? How to agree when you disagree (yes, it's possible) How to figure out what he really means How to figure out what she"s really saying

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Tech-iquette = the code of effective usage of technology in the process of wedding planning. Here are nine code violations. Venting (to Everyone) MISTAKE: Yes, we know there s a lot of stress in planning a wedding. Whether it s struggles with in-laws or guests not being the most generous with their gifts, you just want to blow off some steam. Along comes Facebook, Twitter, group emails and WhatsApp. So what s a quicker and better way to share your concerns with anyone who will listen, right? SOLUTION: We ve seen complaints by brides go viral, leading them to infamy and (sometimes) prolonged, public humiliation. So before you pour your heart out, check the privacy settings on all your social-media accounts and make sure none of your complaints can be seen by the public. Ensure that the names of the groups you re in contact with through both WhatsApp and email are very clear, so you won t end up talking about your in-laws to your in-laws. That definitely wouldn t be good. Tweeting a Picture of Your dress to Everyone MISTAKE: After months of slaving away in the gym, eating like a rabbit and trekking around the bridal salons, you are bound to be pretty excited about finding the perfect wedding dress. Happy and proud, you tweet a picture for all your friends to see. But it is not just your friends who get a peak of your gown; everyone (literally everyone!) spies it (including your fiancé). SOLUTION: For something exceptional like a wedding dress, all tweeting and image posting on social media is out of the question. Sorry, but it s the best way to really keep it secret. We understand that you re dying for a second or third (or tenth) opinion, but to prevent the details from spreading, we say no to emailing as well. If you truly must share, try a protected photo-sharing app called SneakAPeek and preset the time in which your friends can look at your dress without saving, forwarding or taking screen shots. Snapchat is also a great semi-secret option: It gives your friends just a few seconds to glance at the photo. And since it is such a quick interaction, this means your friends are in some ways forced to give their candid opinion of your gown. Not Hiring a Professional for Things That Count MISTAKE: With all the websites and apps out there, everyone seems to believe they can stand in as photographers, DJs or wedding planners. But while some things can be done well by amateurs, certain things do require professionals. And we don t want you to end up with fuzzy photos before you comprehend your miscalculation. SOLUTION: Be honest with yourself and figure out your budget and priorities. This is one of the most important days of your life. Can you live with overexposed photos being all the world sees of your wedding? Can your online wedding planner be around for emergencies in the way a real-live wedding planner can? Things like curating a high-quality collection of music or photos as well as last-minute wedding-day troubleshooting are skill sets that most nonpros simply don t have. So know what you can handle and what you cannot, and hire a professional whenever possible to save yourself from tears later. Reviewing Too Soon MISTAKE: You re interviewing three florists for your wedding and have shared your amazing vision and elaborate décor plans for the day with each of them. But before hearing about your budget, one comes back with many lofty ideas that are in no way helpful or considerate of what you can afford. So right then, you decide to drop all communication and resort to trashing the florist on a review site. SOLUTION: Rather than jumping the gun and claiming that the florist is totally out of touch, take the time to clarify your budget and give the him or her a chance to pitch some new ideas based on all the information (including exactly how much you want to spend). Your wedding vendors are there to help you realize your dream, and they want to be hired. But they do need you to spell out the basic facts. Who knows? Maybe in the end that florist will come back from the follow-up discussion with the amazing design ideas that you ve always been looking for. Messing Up QR Codes MISTAKE: QR (quick response) codes are fast and easy and provide all the information your guests need to know about your wedding. But since they are a relatively new addition to wedding stationery, don t assume that everyone knows what a QR code is and how to scan and make it work. SOLUTION: Provide clear instructions on how to scan the code with a smartphone. And while the code doesn t have to be the generic black-and-white, exercise creativity with caution so that the design won t compromise the functionality of the code. Overloading on Inspiration Boards of All Kinds MISTAKE:We know how useful these boards are (that s why we made them for you on TheKnot.com), but we also know you can spend literally all day on them if you re not careful. At some point, you have to actually go out there and meet the great wedding pros that will bring your creation to life. SOLUTION: Go crazy on the boards when you re in your dream phase, but set some limits. It doesn t have to be perfect before you share it with others; it can evolve over time. And, when you meet with, say, your florist or potential venues, you ll be able to hone your vision a little more. Also, drag in lots of images at first and then weed out what you don t like. Shopping on Dubious Websites MISTAKE: We all know how expensive planning a wedding can be, which makes the so-called discount websites very appealing. If a $5,000 dress selling for $50 sounds too good to be true, it probably is even if you see a great looking photo of it on the website. SOLUTION: It s best to go to actual brick-and-mortar stores for something like your wedding dress. That way you can see what it looks like on. If ordering online is just a lot more convenient, make sure the site you re buying from is approved by the designer. One big hint that it s probably not, is if the site also sells random items like batteries. (Seriously.) Forgetting Traditional Wedding Etiquette MISTAKE: With so many technological advances, there may be more people who are okay with emailing their wedding invitations these days. But is it really a good idea to totally let go of old, time-tested traditions? Especially if great grandma doesn t even have a computer? SOLUTION: Sure, technology can make life easier, but it s wise to check out books and sites to familiarize yourself with traditional etiquette. (We answer tons of these questions at TheKnot.com/askcarley.) You don t always have to follow the rules, but it s good to at least know when you ve decided to break them. Not Having a Tech Pro on Standby When It Counts MISTAKE: Do you really know what to do when there are technical difficulties? Without a competent tech person nearby, you can potentially disrupt the mood of the wedding with weird lighting or sound. SOLUTION: Just like shooting your professional frame-worthy photographs, this is a skill set that isn t easily transferable. So make sure your tech professional has a solid understanding of all the equipment being used that day. It s important that he or she has a sense of what glitches may arise with the venue s sound system or lighting design to be able to resolve any situation preferably before your guests notice.

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When Vidal Sassoon snipped actress Nancy Kwan's long hair into a short, geometric bob in 1963, the world took notice. The legendary cut promptly appeared in Vogue's October 15 issue of that year, lending its own seismic rumble to the decade's emerging Youthquake culture. {none} Coco Chanel {none} Louise Brooks {none} Jacqueline Kennedy {none} Natalie Wood {none} Elizabeth Taylor {none} Nancy Kwan {none} The Supremes {none} Faye Dunaway {none} Lauren Hutton {none} Debbie Harry {none} Courtney Love and Kurt Cobain {none} Rei Kawakubo {none} Uma Thurman {none} Natalie Portman {none} Gwyneth Paltrow {none} Natalia Vodianova {none} Arizona Muse {none} Daria Werbowy {none} Sam Rollinson {none} Karlie Kloss {none} Sam Rollinson

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It doesn't have to be white. Use a gutsy blue or an ethereal green to bring beauty to this multifunctional space. Designers share their best kitchen color ideas. Blue "I'm a big blue-and-white freak. It says nautical, crisp, and timeless to me. I painted my kitchen cabinets this great blue almost a navy but with some periwinkle thrown in and did white statuary marble on the countertops, and blue-and-white wallpaper. And of course the cabinets are crammed with blue-and-white pottery." Dan BarsantiFarrow & Ball Estate Emulsion Pitch Blue 220 Black "In an open kitchen that's the first thing you see as you walk in the front door, I needed something dramatic. So I painted all the cabinetry black, which really shows off the stainless steel appliances, the copper tile backsplash, and the glass pendants. Blackis handsome. It has solidity and heft." Palmer WeissBenjamin Moore Ultra Spec 500 Black INT. RM/EXT.RM Pink "I did a black, white, and gray kitchen in Palm Beach, but it was leaving us a bit chilly. So we painted the ceiling hot pink, and the insides of the cabinets a lighter version of the same shade. The color is a surprise and a delight. It made the ceiling soar and gave the space a whole new energy." Patrick KillianBenjamin Moore Waterborne Ceiling Paint Gypsy Rose 1327 Gray "Paint everything one color this elegant gray. It's like a frothy latte. Not too dark, not too cold…just right. It will add a little architectural gravitas to even the saddest cabinetry. And if it feels too restrained, bring in lemony yellow, blue, and white." Benjamin DhongBenjamin Moore Regal Classic Premium Hazy Skies OC-48 Sage green "For a client who loves to cook and garden, we updated the cabinets with a warm sage green a color traditionally used for painting greenhouses. We knew it would soften the dark-green marble countertops and look great with her collection of vintage botanical prints. It gives a large kitchen the feel of a cozy potting shed." Courtney ColemanBenjamin Moore Satin Impervo Hillside Green 495 Orange "For an unexpected dash of personality and warmth, add a shock of color to the back of your cabinets. I know this is bright, but when it's behind glass doors and acting as a backdrop to all your dishes, it livens things up nicely. And it's easy to change in a few years, if turquoise starts calling to you." Douglass GranetoFarrow & Ball Estate Eggshell Charlotte's Locks 268 Taupe "This is the color of putty a rich taupe that wavers between green and gray. There's a rawness to it. It's a neutral with character. I used it on the island and the crown moldings. Surrounded by crisp white cabinetry, it grounds the space and makes it much warmer." Amy Aidinis HirschFine Paints of Europe Hollandlac G23120 Red "The problem with kitchens is that there's so much cabinetry, which, frankly, can be boring. Red paint on the walls adds some excitement and fills up all the blanks, pulling the room together. And it has been proven that red makes people hungry." Beverly EllsleyGlidden Premium Collection Red Geranium GLR06 Cream "In a Greenwich Village apartment with wonderfully beat-up brick walls carved out of a former stable we chose deep cream for the cabinetry in the open kitchen. The color seems to embody the light. It glows but doesn't turn yellow. It led us down that warm, vintage path without feeling too old." Carey MaloneyDonald Kaufman Color DKC-93 Apple green "I had a small laundry room off my kitchen. But since space was at a premium and I like to drink much more than do laundry, I turned it into a butler's pantry. I love apples and martinis, so apple green was the obvious choice. A bright color makes a room feel intimate, and the glossy finish adds a shimmer." Jeffrey Alan MarksFarrow & Ball Full Gloss Breakfast Room Green 81 Pale powder "If you want something clean and neutral but more interesting than white, try this whisper of a color that goes green or blue in different lights. It adds character and a bit of age, it's easy to live with, and it makes a smoother transition to the adjacent rooms, which are full of color." Katie RidderFarrow & Ball Estate Eggshell Pale Powder 204 Green "Green feels like a natural. It adds vibrancy next to classic white subway tiles and cabinets. This is a cool green with a hint of blue. It makes me think of eucalyptus leaves. It's compatible with almost any color and even makes food look good." Kendall WilkinsonPratt & Lambert Accolade Dried Bay Leaf 15-24

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These kitchen designs have been getting a lot of buzz on our Pinterest boards. Browse these rooms for some inspiration. Green gloss kitchen The Manhattan kitchen is small, but the owner has no trouble making braised short ribs for eight in it. Cabinets are lacquered in Bamboo Leaf by Fine Paints of Europe, as was the roller shade by Manhattan Shade & Glass. Even the Sub-Zero refrigerator is painted green."I thought, 'Why replace this with a paneled kitchen?' I knew it would paint beautifully and that a strong brush of color would make it exciting," designer Miles Redd says. Simplicity In a Vermont farmhouse designed by Susan Tully, an Aga range works beautifully with the kitchen's spare aesthetic. Ikat accent In a Charlotte, North Carolina, house, designer Lindsey Coral Harper made a Roman shade in the same fabric as the kitchen sofa, Thom Filicia's Prospect in Shadow for Kravet, to carry the ikat pattern across the room. Grounding gray The kitchen is a favorite place to host casual lunches and dinners in a Southern California house designed by Parrish Chilcoat and Joe Lucas."The mahogany-topped island can easily fit 12 stools," Chilcoat says. "In a room this big, with east and west exposures, all this gray is grounding," Lucas adds. To set the cabinets and island apart, the designers painted them two different shades: Farrow & Ball's Down Pipe, a warm gray, on the cabinets, and Benjamin Moore's cooler Chelsea Gray on the island. Antique industrial pendants and a custom stainless-steel hood add sculptural focal points. The backsplash is acid-washed Seagrass limestone from Classic Tile. Colorful cabinets In designer Sheila Bridges's small, but elegant New York City kitchen, Kohler's farmhouse sink is paired with a Kingston Brass Heritage Collection faucet. Blue kitchen island "The owners didn't want a white kitchen, but they did want it to be a bright, interesting room the whole family spends a lot of time here," says Nancy Boszhardt of this New York apartment. "It's also a great working kitchen. The wide plank floors are great to stand on while you're cooking, the island is large, and they've got that incredible La Cornue range." The hood was designed by architect Radoslav Opacic. Countertops are Jerusalem Gold limestone slab. Custom barstools are upholstered in Brunschwig & Fils leather. Faucet from P.E. Guerin. Welcoming kitchen "The kitchen is where we hang out and entertain," says Monica Bhargava of her California house. "I wanted it to feel soulful, and the Bolton lanterns take me back to the bazaar." She hung two at either end of the long room to unify the space. Captain barstools by Pottery Barn are pulled up to the large island." Everything is centered here," she explains. "I can put out the best hors d'oeuvres on another table somewhere else, and it doesn't matter. Everyone goes right back to that island." Mauviel copper stockpot and Apilco Très Grande Porcelain dinnerware from Williams-Sonoma. Baskets and trays by Williams-Sonoma Home. Custom- made cabinets with open shelves are set against a beadboard wall and accented with Rocky Mountain Hardware pulls. Painted cabinets "This is a really green turquoise. It reminds me of sea glass, and we used it in a beach house that was all about fresh air and fresh color. I probably wouldn't have chosen it for solid cabinet fronts, but it worked well in the back, as an accent color. And it tied in with other things we used in the kitchen." - Jason Bell Farmhouse-style For a new kitchen in in Mount Kisco, New York, Shaker-style cabinets by Plain & Fancy, painted Teresa's Green by Farrow & Ball, have a wonderfully old-fashioned but surprisingly fresh look. Vintage pendants hung at different heights provide ambient and task lighting. The dark brass schoolhouse lights were found at Scherer's Architectural Antiques." The homeowner is a serious cook," designer Young Huh says, "and she wanted that Wolf range" it has six burners, a double griddle, and two ovens. Farmhouse table from Royal Port Antiques. Neutral kitchen The kitchen in a Seattle, Washington, house was remodeled with new cabinetry painted Stone Harbor by Benjamin Moore and floor tiles from New Ravenna. Designer Kelie Grosso hung a Swedish chandelier by Canopy Designs because "a standard pendant light didn't make any sense for this house." Indecasa TB counter stools, Design Within Reach.

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From pineapple sculptures made out of sunflowers to bold graphic printed tablecloths, ten trendsetters in the wedding industry shared 100 days' worth of inspiring new wedding details. See The Knot editors' top picks for the coolest and most awe-worthy ideas from the wedding experts. Prismatic glass lamps For a romantically draped wedding tent Mindy Weiss hung dozens of stunning prismatic glass lamps. Each lamp was slightly different than the next, which added serious character and visual interest to the ceiling. For another unexpected twist, thick rope was a deliberate solution to otherwise unsightly lamp cords. The juxtaposition of these creative lights paired with lush florals, long farm tables and vintage mismatched chairs made it all the more dramatic and beautiful. By Simone Hill A courtyard cocktail bar This cocktail bar is as refreshing as an ice cold drink! Despite the casual outdoor setting for this daytime cocktail hour, Todd Fiscus added elegance to the open space with a custom bar accented with a petal covered focal point and tons of purple and blue hydrangeas. Just add a bartender and this chic bar makes the perfect recipe for a stylish summer affair! Golden velour draped reception chairs These ultra luxe velour chairs literally stole the show at this reception planned by celebrity designer Yifat Oren. To pull off the Hollywood glamour vibe and make this reception truly red-carpet ready Oren added Art Deco-inspired mirrored tables and simple all-white centerpieces. Dramatic red draping Gauzy white fabric is the standard when creating a dramatically draped room, but swap the fabric color to something darker like red, and you get an incredibly intimate and dramatic effect. Celebrity wedding planner Preston Bailey took it a few steps further with flower-accented lanterns, soft lighting and textured red table linens. Animal topiary The green monkey (yep, you read that right!), rabbit and elephant topiaries were made entirely out of moss by Barb Salzman, founder of Hatch Creative Studio. The topiaries added a playful vibe to an otherwise elegant escort card table. "While the overall design of the wedding created with flowers, candles and textures creates the general feel of the event, it's the details that make it personal and unique to each couple," Salzman explains. A pretty white lounge Celebrity event planner Mindy Weiss took advantage of a garden trellis that was already on property and transformed it into a pretty lounge space. Simple white furniture and a mirrored coffee table was all she needed to complete the look. A Moroccan-style lounge Alison Hotchkiss', founder of Alison Event Planning & Design, creative design incorporated a specialty star-ceilinged tent and overlapping orange batik printed tapestries in a rich orange hue. Long and low, yet modern seating added a chic vibe to the space and Alison added plenty of pillows for comfort to create the ultimate relaxing, yet stylish lounge space. A bright red amaryllis centerpiece Liza Lubell, founder of Brooklyn-based Peartree Flowers, gave the usual red and orange fall color palette a serious update with bright reds and berries. By incorporating fresh flowers like amaryllis, jasmine vine, tulips, ranunculuses, gladiola and carnations and spreading out these large organic pieces on long tables, the florals added a cheery natural element. Repurposed home décor escort cards Sourcing items like drawer knobs and door knockers like this brass lion head into an escort card design puts an unexpected twist on the classic wedding detail. Southern event planner Tara Guerard didn't stop with the escort card display though. She added the same lion head motif to the menu cards and even incorporated it into the couple's custom monogram, for a seriously regal look and feel. Vintage ghost key escort cards Antique ghost keys attached to labels with twine make the perfect low-fuss vintage escort cards. The calligraphed labels and keys designed by Yifat Oren require little else as far as decor to stand out. A weathered wooden table and sprigs of herbs (try fragrant rosemary!) make are an understated detail with rustic charm. Plus, the keys double as a keepsake! A candlelit walkway Todd Fiscus, founder of Todd Events, lit the way to a reception held in this vintage barn with simple candles. In this case candlelight is both romantic and practical, so that guests can see their way to the rustic venue even when the sun goes down. With this simple addition to the walkway, Todd successfully transformed the outside of the space without much effort. Zodiac escort card Animal figurine escort cards are a subtle nod to the Chinese zodiac and an unexpected decor idea. Your guests probably haven't seen anything like these before and they're an easy DIY (with a bit of baker's twine, kraft cardstock, and a calligraphy pen anything is possible), double win! A vintage ledger seating chart "Escort cards can be a challenge when used outside as they don't always stay in place," says Lynn Easton. So instead of fighting against the elements, Lynn used an antique ledger to list the guests' names and table assignments while adding old-world charm to this chic outdoor wedding. Sunflower pineapples Pineapples are a symbol of hospitality, so Preston Bailey invited guests into this wedding with these larger-than-life faux fruits made out of bright sunflower blooms. "[Together] two ordinary things become fun, conversational pieces that enhance a breezy and warm event," says Preston. A high-fashion inspired bridal portrait Elizabeth Messina put a spin on the traditional bridal portraits by having the bride play model in these soft and sultry photographs. This bride would fit in on the cover of any fashion magazine as the photo captures the bride's gentle and relaxed beauty. A winter citrus centerpiece As an unexpected twist, Liza Lubell added zesty citrus fruits to an all-white winter centerpiece arrangement. "The centerpieces were accompanied by a sprinkling of fresh lemons down the center of long farm tables," says Liza. Liza's arrangement included poppy, ranunculuses, lemon branches, hellebore, and narcissus flowers in addition to wintry staples like pine, winter greens and spirea branches for a loose, organic look. Ceremony in the round To create an intimate space in an otherwise large outdoor ceremony area like this one, with rolling farmland and canopied trees, Lynn Easton founder of Easton Events scouted the area first and then decided to go with ceremony seating in the round. Guests were seated in an arch-like arrangement, and a large tree served as the ceremony altar. "I love when I can scout out unique ceremony sites where nature can speak for itself," she says. A romantic shoe shot You'll be photographed from head to toe on your wedding day, literally, and Elizabeth Messina makes sure that no accessory goes unnoticed with a soft and romantic shoe shot. A patterned cocktail bar During the cocktail hour all eyes will be on the bar, so why not make it more than just a pit stop for a drink and transform it into a stunning focal point? Tara Guerard did just that by covering this 40-ft bar in silver wallpaper to add a metallic glitz to this chic white-on-white lounge. The geometric design of the wallpaper complemented the diamond motif on the cake, which was also displayed front and center.More from The Knot: Love these ideas? See all 100 here!

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These spaces are the epitome of indoor-outdoor living. If you moved them inside, you wouldn't have to change a thing. Rooms We Can't Believe Are Outdoors - Roof deck An outdoor fireplace on the roof deck of a house in upstate New York is a big attraction. "We've hosted many great parties up there," architect and homeowner Gray Davis says. Outdoor furniture by Restoration Hardware. Outdoor dining The outdoor dining area of designer Robert Passal's Miami Beach apartment is sheltered from the sun and furnished with comfortable chairs and a sofa, all from the Santa Barbara collection by Restoration Hardware. A Saarinen table by Knoll adds a modern touch. Hanging fixture from Vagabond Vintage. Sophisticated gray Designer Tobi Tobin completely revamped the backyard of her Hollywood Hills farmhouse. She used brick from an old patio for the new fireplace and created a terrace from sand mixed with granite. A candlelit chandelier can be raised and lowered by a rope pulley rigged to a tree. It casts a soft glow over Restoration Hardware's Gun Barrel Salvaged Wood dining table and all-weather wicker from World Market. Black and white Martyn Lawrence Bullard covered roll-arm sofas and chairs in Perennials fabrics for a black-and-white outdoor living room in a Los Angeles house: "I wanted it to look like indoor furniture had been dragged outside." Loggia A fireplace and overhead heat lamps make it possible to entertain on the loggia year-round in a Southern California bachelor pad designed by Parrish Chilcoat and Joe Lucas. It's furnished with a Provence love seat in synthetic wicker and St. Barts teak lounge chairs all from Restoration Hardware an Ikea Brommö deck chair, a white-painted African table from Berbere World Imports, and Brantley lanterns from Circa Lighting. Colorful In the outdoor living room of a Malibu house designed by Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe, a vintage sofa and coffee table mix with Janus et Cie chairs. Porch In a Nashville house designed by Markham Roberts, a ceiling painted in Benjamin Moore Aura in Black Knight makes for a handsome porch that's used year-round thanks to a fireplace and fans. The teak sofa and armchairs by Restoration hardware are covered in kravet Navy canvas and Quadrille's Island ikat custom-printed on Sunbrella fabric. Palecek wingback chairs. Paul Ferrante pendant. Global-inspired In the covered outdoor living room of a 1920s Santa Monica, California, home, designer David Dalton created a relaxing year-round space with insulated Sunbrella curtains and a fireplace decorated with custom Talavera tiles by Mission Tile West. Wicker chairs by Palecek. Indonesian coffee table, Moroccan urns, and lantern from Berbere World Imports. Low-key Rattan furniture creates a relaxed living room on the veranda of designer Amanda Lindroth's Bahamas house. Shutters and railings are painted Southfield Green by Benjamin Moore in Aura Exterior. Lamps, Circa Who. Kitchen In Dianne Bernhard's Westport, Connecticut, kitchen, Plain & Fancy cabinets with Nantucket-style doors and blue-toned Caesarstone on top pick up the colors of the water just beyond the deck. "We really do live out here during the summer," Bernhard says. Ceiling is painted Benjamin Moore's Blue Springs.

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From a vintage chest turned into a kitchen island to upside-down planters used as tables, we've got unique ideas to make your old furniture seem like new again. Antique secretary as a linen press An antique mahogany secretary is repurposed as a linen press in the bedroom of a 500-square-foot Georgetown row house designed by Mary Drysdale. The sisal rug was painted in broad stripes to add a graphic counterpoint to the walls. Antique quilt from Fisher Heritage. Antique sideboard as a vanity In the powder room of Liza Pulitzer Calhoun's Palm Beach, Florida, house, an antique sideboard became a vanity. Walls are covered in Phillip Jeffries's Seagrass grass cloth. Door as a headboard In the master bedroom of a Southern house, an antique door is the headboard, a trick designer Kay Douglass often uses to add interest while taking up less space in the room. "I'm so inspired by the Belgian antiques dealer Axel Vervoordt," Douglass says. "He is a master at taking old objects and turning them into art. An example of that kind of repurposing is the way we used those old doors. One was made into the master bedroom headboard, and the other we hung on a wall in the kitchen." Antique bookcase as a bar An antique bookcase doubles as a bar in this Manhattan apartment designed by Phoebe and Jim Howard. Glassware by William Yeoward Crystal. Suitcases as a nightstand In the master bedroom of a Napa Valley ranch house designed by Ken Fulk, vintage Louis Vuitton suitcases are propped on wooden blocks to serve as a night table. Side tables as stools Designer Lindsey Coral Harper turned wire side tables from ABC Carpet & Home into stools in the kitchen of a Charlotte, North Carolina, house. "I sat on one and it held me, so I just whipped up some cushions for them," she says. "They're fun, like ghost stools you see right through them." Outdoor planters as tables In the study of an Atlanta, Georgia, house, the coffee table came from the garden. "I like to repurpose things," designer Kay Douglass says. "Those cubic coffee tables in the living room and the study are old outdoor planters, flipped upside down. They have a great chalky finish that's elegant in an old-world way. These are the things that give the house a twist." Vintage chest as an island Designer Annie Brahler upgraded a vintage demilune chest by adding rear cabinets and a marble top to create the central island in the kitchen of her Jacksonville, Illinois, Victorian. Stainless-stell range and hood by Thermador. Easel as a TV stand To bring "lightness and ease" to this 1970s Palm Beach condo, designer Vicente Wolf took down interior walls and created a flexible loft-like living area. A Magasin Sennelier French oak easel on casters serves as a movable TV stand.

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Must-follow bloggers share their signature, seasonal tip. Style a centerpiece with branches "Tall berry-covered branches bring the wintry outdoors in... and don't require the skills of a floral designer." Camille Styles, camillestyles.com Incorporate a vintage element "Bringing in really special vintage moments will instantly bring warmth to your space. Think mismatched antique silverware, worn silver trays, and aged baskets filled with wool blankets." Abby Larson, stylemepretty.com Mix up color "Try mixing things up with a new color palette that offers a refreshing change from the traditional holiday color schemes that we're so used to seeing. Instead of focusing on autumnal colors for Thanksgiving, try classic blue and white. And for a whimsical take on conventional Christmas colors, try pink and teal with silver metallic accents instead!" Nicole Gibbons, sohautestyle.com Go seasonal "When dressing the holiday table, think seasonal rather than holiday-specific. Pair jewel-toned linens with traditional decorative accents such as a miniature pine or rosemary tree. When the style is festive and wintery, you don't have to worry about taking it down on December 26th!" Mandy Kellogg Rye, waitingonmartha.com Mix styles "I love juxtaposing natural elements with a little sparkle. And I am not afraid to spray paint something to highlight a pretty form, such as this pair of iron reindeer candelabras that received a metallic makeover!" Danielle Rollins, danielledrollins.com Find your color story "For holiday decorating, color is key! Sticking to a palette of two to three colors makes decorating easy and the end result looks perfectly put together." Kelly Slott, fabulouskstyle.com Try a seasonal scent "There's nothing like the scent of the holiday season. The Holiday Classic Candle from Nest always gets us in the holiday spirit." Sally and Molly Miller, apieceoftoastblog.com Create an ornament cluster "Tying the perfect bow on a wreath can be challenging, so opt for a modern ornament cluster instead. Attach a group of ribbons to the hook or the nail at the wreath's top, then hang ornaments at varying lengths for a simple and stylish look. " Kristin Jackon, huntedinterior.com Go overboard with candles "Always, always, use candlelight as much as you can. It is so much more flattering. I love to make clusters around buffet areas, the bar, and on side tables. It makes the atmosphere especially cozy!" Lauren Saylor, afabulousfeteblog.com Decorate with fresh, seasonal elements "Use seasonal goods such as cinnamon sticks, satsuma oranges, pomegranates, or olive branches to add a festive touch to your holiday dinner place settings. The cinnamon sticks can double as cider stirrers for later in the evening!" Jacin Fitzgerald, lovelylittledetails.com Double a party favor as décor "Hang snowflake ornaments with silver ribbon on an outdoor tree or entryway to create a floating winter wonderland. As the event winds down, let each guest choose an ornament on their way out to enjoy as the party favor." Krystal Schlegel, krystalschlegel.com

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More from The Bump Dealing with working mom guilt Nanny vs. Daycare Keep track of baby's daily activities Maternity leave fading fast? Cut down on the back-to-work chaos and stay connected with your family with these tips from TheBump.com. Step 1: Set the Date If your return date is flexible, you might be tempted to put off the decision as long as possible. Resist! The delay is nothing but unnecessary stress. Decide what you want. "The worst thing you can do is feel powerless," warns TheBump.com parenting expert Tammy Gold, founder of Gold Parent Coaching. "Look at your options even if there aren't a lot of them. Is there a proposal you can put forth?" Sit down with your partner and write out your ideal plan. Pitch it. Talk to your employer about your return plan. "Be honest," Gold urges. "Just explain it to them." Even if your boss can't accommodate all of your wishes, you'll open the door for discussion. Mark your calendar. Once you've set your date in stone, you can move on to trickier things, like... Step 2: Hire a Caregiver You'll be trusting someone with your most prized possession, so do your homework and don't be afraid to be picky. Make a plan. Nanny? Group sitter? Day care? What works best for your family (and your budget)? Sit down with your partner and hash it out. Ask other parents for recommendations. If you don't know many parents in your area, plenty of websites are geared toward connecting local moms. Sites like lilaguide.com and mamasource.com can be great resources. Test your options. Visit day care centers, interview sitters, check references, and ask tons of questions. This isn't the time to be shy! Watch caregivers interact with your child and get a real feel for who you (and baby!) are comfortable with. Even if you've been on a prestigious waiting list since baby was an embryo, you still need to introduce your child and make a final decision. Go with your gut. "Trust yourself!" Gold insists. If the caregiver comes recommended, has great credentials, and feels right, go ahead and make a commitment. Step 3: Test-Drive Big changes are ahead. Preserve your sanity by giving your new schedule a few whirls before you're heading out the door. Warm up your sitter. "You don't want your first day at work to be your caregiver's first day," says Gold. "Let them start as early as you're financially prepared to let them." A child care trial run allows time for bonding, smoothing over questions, and practicing spending a few hours apart. (This also gives you time to get a haircut, buy work clothes, and prepare to reenter the world of grown-ups.) Practice your routine. A little rusty when it comes to certain life skills (applying makeup, walking in heels)? There are new skills to master too (getting showered and ready with baby in tow). "We choreographed our whole morning and practiced for 10 days," says New York mom Lori. "We still follow the same schedule now, almost a year later." Not ready for two full pretend workweeks? At least give it a couple of tries. Working out the kinks ahead of time can save you precious minutes when you really need them later. Step 4: Stay Connected Time in the office can make a momma feel out of touch. Get creative and find ways to stay connected. Schedule and visualize. "Give caregivers a detailed schedule and have them keep notes for you," Gold advises. If you bring in a notebook and ask nicely, even day care workers may be willing to record a few details. If you know baby's general schedule, you can sit back and imagine her sleeping at nap time, strolling through the park at 11 a.m., and so on. Make the most of family time. "Family time is all about quality not quantity," Gold assures. The best way to maximize that time? Map it out. "Your life is now scheduled," explains a mom on one of the message boards at TheBump.com. Get a calendar and mark off time for play, family outings, errands, and yes being alone with your partner. A tool like Google Calendar can make it easy for both you and your partner to update and share a schedule that you can check daily. Tech it out. Use technology to your advantage. "My nanny and I text all day long. It's what gets me through the day!" admits another mom on TheBump.com. Lori keeps even closer tabs, with live video feeds from the living room and nursery. Some day care centers are even offering streaming video on their websites! Not so tech-saavy? Drop off a camera and ask caregivers to snap a few shots throughout the day. Step 5: Commiserate Tons of moms have walked this path before. "You MUST connect," Gold says. "Mothering can be very isolating. The more you connect, the more comfortable you'll feel." Office Moms "It's like a club. I get so many tips from the moms at work," laughs Lori, who sometimes sends emails to her mommy colleagues for advice before calling her own mom or pediatrician. Find the other moms in your workplace and chat it up. Mommy Groups Not many moms in your office? Most cities have local groups for working mothers. "Find someone with similar circumstances to yours and connect. They'll love to share their story," says Gold. "In times of stress, people bond." Online tools like Yahoo! Groups can help you seek out neighborhood allies. Websites Parenting websites are a great place to find comrades too. On sites like TheBump.com, moms chat on message boards about their fears, roadblocks, and successes. "You can learn a tremendous amount just by listening," explains Gold. "Or you can engage online and type your concerns." Either way, you'll know you're not alone. Step 6: Give Yourself a Break Emotions (and, yes, guilt) might run wild in those first weeks without baby. Relax it's normal. Be crazy. Give yourself permission to feel the way you feel. Gold even encourages scheduling time to obsess. "Try setting aside five minutes of every hour to think about baby. Write down questions, ideas for things to do together whatever's on your mind. Then refocus on work until your next 'baby break.'" Forget about dinner. "You CAN'T be everything," Gold reiterates. Something's got to give. Let go of the elaborate meals. Let the dishes pile up. Put off the vacuuming. You're being a great mother, wife, and professional don't worry about being a great maid. A supportive partner will be able to pitch in without a fuss, but don't expect them to read your mind. Ask for help when you need it. Keep it real. When it comes to managing the fine balance of family, work, and relationships, communication is everything. Keep a notebook to record your worries and talk out any issues as they arise. "The more you can write down, the less chaos there'll be," Gold urges. Feel guilty for ignoring your pals? Send out a mass email. Qualms about your caregiver? Have an honest discussion. Miss couple time? Schedule a date night. Keep your cards on the table and constantly reevaluate. You'll have this "working mom" thing down in no time. Photo: Veer © 2008 The Knot Inc. All rights reserved.

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Volkswagen has voluntarily recalled the 2015 Golf and GTI hatchbacks for a problem that could potentially mess up the steering in certain hatchbacks. The Problem: The stabilizer link fasteners in certain 2015 Golf and GTI hatchbacks may become loose after some time and affect the steering of the vehicle. Volkswagen says owners may hear a considerably loud noise coming from the vehicle if this happens. Although rare, it's possible for the rod to become detached, requiring the driver put extra effort into controlling the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash. The Fix: Volkswagen will notify owners this month, instructing them to head to dealers so that they can replace the front stabilizer links for free. Volkswagen customer service can also be reached at 1-800-822-8987, referencing the recall number 40K9/1W. Number of Potentially Affected Vehicles: 2001 Volkswagen Golf and GTI hatchbacks from the 2015 model year. Source: NHTSA, Volkswagen

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Though full-size trucks continue to be America s most popular vehicle by far, plenty of cars and crossovers are disappearing from dealer lots. The best-selling cars in the United States, through June 31: 20. Ford Explorer The ever-versatile Ford Explorer is the most popular three-row SUV for the first quarter of 2014, the only one in the top 20 best-selling vehicles this year. Buyers can choose between three engines and four individual trim levels, with the most powerful Sport model topping the list. A combination of sharp styling, good fuel economy, and plenty of options keeps buyers coming back. 19. Nissan Rogue When redesigning the Rogue for 2014, Nissan set its sights on making sure the Rogue looked and drove like a "premium" vehicle. They got something right, because buyers are flocking to the attractive compact crossover in droves. With the ingenious Divide-N-Hide cargo system and a 15 percent increase in fuel efficiency, the Rogue may have the chops to pull ahead of its better-selling competition found in the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Honda CR-V by the end of the sales year. 18. Hyundai Sonata The 2014 Hyundai Sonata offers attractive styling and a list of quality features that keep buyers behind the wheel. It may not be as sharp to drive or as quick as the sportier Optima offering from sister-company Kia, but the Sonata provides attractive features for those wanting something off the beaten path within the midsize segment. 17. Toyota Prius As it always has been, the Toyota Prius is the undisputed leader in the hybrid segment. Its familiar design and approachable price keep it the crowd favorite for one more year. However, with the recent burst of hybrid and electric vehicles clogging the segment, the Prius has found some tough competition from the likes of Honda and Ford. The next-generation Prius is in the works, so expect higher sales once it hits showroom floors. 16. Hyundai Elantra While not the most fun car to be found in the compact segment, the 2014 Hyundai Elantra makes up ground with its quality interior and attractive styling. The Elantra can be bought in two styles, the Coupe and the GT four-door hatch, with the hatch providing an impressive amount of interior space and storage. Buyers beware, however, as the real-world fuel economy does not quite line up with the EPA rating. 15. Toyota RAV4 With the RAV4's clean-sheet redesign in 2013, its styling was toned down to match the rest of the segment. The redesign lost the familiar exterior mounted spare and the optional V-6 engine, but received much-needed major upgrades for the interior. Fans of the RAV4 may bemoan the loss of the more powerful engine, but when we compared the updated RAV4 with its competitors, we found the power to be more than adequate. Buyers seem to agree with the changes, as the RAV4 continues to stay on the best-seller list. 14. Chevrolet Equinox The 2014 Chevrolet Equinox's success lies in its ability to cut the balance perfectly between small-car looks and fuel economy, but with the added space and utility found in a larger crossover SUV. It's more comfortable and usable than Chevrolet's larger offerings, and potential Equinox buyers should spring the extra $1500 for the newly upgraded optional V-6 engine, giving a necessary power bump over the underpowered base I-4 engine. 13. Ford Focus Ford's sporty compact sedan finds itself on the best-sellers list for another year. Ford has made sure the Focus lineup is one of the most diverse in the market, offering every variation from an all-electric Focus to full-on performance hot hatch found in the Focus ST. Though most praise the Focus' styling and engaging drive, the MyTouch infotainment system has been labeled as confusing and clunky, perhaps providing reason to look elsewhere in the segment. 12. Chevrolet Cruze It may lag behind the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla, but enough buyers still find themselves in the slightly outdated Chevrolet Cruze to put it at No. 12 on the list. Buyers can look for the reveal of an updated Cruze in the coming months, which will hopefully resolve some issues we found with the current model. Cramped rear space and an unrefined optional diesel engine detract from what would be an overall good compact sedan. 11. Ford Escape As with Ford's other strong seller, the Focus, the Ford Escape offers something for every need. Strong power from its available EcoBoost engines, the Escape is both fun-to-drive and easy on fuel, with 26 combined city/highway mpg in base trim. Tons of technology and accessories are available, including Ford's Sync infotainment system and the useful hands-free rear hatch. With so many features available, it's no wonder the Escape is the second best-selling compact crossover. 10. Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V is the best-selling compact crossover for 2014, now ahead of the Ford Escape. Plentiful power from an efficient 2.4-liter I-4 in front-wheel-drive guise returns a notable 26 mpg for combined city/highway, and with available all-wheel drive and an impressive 70.9 cubic feet of space with the rear seats down, the CR-V is still the stand-out offering in the compact crossover segment. 9. Ford Fusion Though sales of the Ford Fusion have ebbed, the handsomely styled midsize sedan is still on the best-selling list, up three spots from the 2013. With four engines available for a number of tastes and budgets, the Fusion can be had with a range of four-cylinder engines: one entry-level naturally aspirated 1.6-liter, three EcoBoost options, and a range-topping hybrid option. 8. Honda Civic With sales down slightly from last year, the Honda Civic boasts a slew of attractive standard features for 2014. Standard rear-view camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and an attractive LCD center-stack screen all contribute to the Civic's continuing popularity in the compact sedan segment, putting its sales above rivals from Chevrolet and Ford. Characteristically above-average handling and legendary Honda reliability keep the Civic a consistently worthy choice. 7. Toyota Corolla Redesigned for the 2014 model year, the Toyota Corolla is once again the compact sedan sales leader. While the recent redesign brought sharp styling and more attention-grabbing features than previous generations, the performance is still lukewarm when compared to its competition. Still, the majority of buyers in this segment are not preoccupied with performance figures, so sales remain strong. 6. Nissan Altima The attractive and sharp-driving Nissan Altima has found favor with buyers for another year, winning them over with high-quality interior materials, comfortable "zero gravity" seats, and an efficient base engine, with an EPA-rated 27/38 mpg. Buyers can follow the path of the larger Nissan Maxima and opt for the powerful V-6 engine if the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder is low on power. Not all is good, however, with the Altima's noticeably tight interior space, when compared to its competitors, and a clattery CVT transmission. 5. Honda Accord The Honda Accord, now in its ninth generation of production, has always enjoyed a spot high on the list of best-selling cars. Through its long lifespan, the Accord has often been the pick for enthusiasts looking for a sedan that is a balanced mix of fun-to-drive, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Honda has taken notice and has made sure the Accord remains one of the last midsize sedans available with a manual transmission. 4. Dodge Ram Series The Ram has dropped one place on the best seller's list for this quarter, but the sales remain strong. Buyers are not the only ones finding favor with Ram, as the Ram EcoDiesel, featuring a powerful and refined turbodiesel V-6, is the first pickup truck to win the Motor Trend Truck of the Year award two years running. Combine this with a high towing capacity and a quality interior results in the Ram being a sales star for another year. 3. Toyota Camry For another year, Toyota claims the top sales in both compact and midsize segments. The midsize Toyota Camry seems to be slowly losing its lead, however, with quality rivals from Ford, Honda, and Nissan encroaching on its sales. Available in four-cylinder, V-6, or hybrid engine configurations, the Camry has adequate power and fuel efficiency for any budget. The completely updated and refreshed 2015 model is on its way to showroom floors toward the end of the sales year, so expect better deals and lagging sales on the outgoing 2014 model. 2. Chevrolet Silverado Series Though the Silverado lineup notched the second-highest sales for the first quarter of 2014, sales are lagging behind last year, perhaps due to buyers holding out for the upgraded Heavy Duty models to hit showroom floors. The Silverado lineup has an impressive line of available engines, ranging from an efficient V-6 (4.3 liter, 285 hp) and a group of efficient V-8s (5.3 liter, 355 hp; 6.2 liter, 420 hp) to a Heavy Duty V-8 (6.0 liter, 360 hp). The available 6.6-liter Duramax diesel churns out an incredible 765 lb-ft of torque. 1. Ford F-150 Series For the first quarter in 2014, the Ford F-150 is once again the best-selling pickup truck for 37 years in a row, and the best-selling vehicle for the past 32 years. Sales are expected to take a slight dip, however, as potential customers wait for the all-new 2015 model to hit dealerships. The 2015 F-150 will feature an all-aluminum body and bed, the first for a pickup truck of this size. Engine options and cab configurations will still be plentiful, most likely leading the F-150 to another year at the top of the sales list.

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The new Toyota GT86 CS-R3 rally car will be reliving the glory days of the Toyota Celica TA64 Twin-cam Turbo from the 1980s when it makes its official debut next month at the ninth round of the FIA World Rally Championship. Although it won't be ready to compete just yet, the GT86 rally car will still put on a show as it's been named the official "pathfinder" zero car of the race. Under development for the past year, the GT86 CS-R3 will still be a prototype when it scouts the course ahead of the competitors in the race next month. At the helm will be Isolde Holderied, a two-time women's rally champion. Not only will she be driving the GT86 CS-R3, but she'll also evaluate it and provide input to help engineers make the final adjustments to the finished product. Engineers have already focused on making the GT86 -- the European counterpart to the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ -- more lightweight, while also making other modifications that still meet the FIA R3 requirements. The GT86's 2.0-liter Boxer-four has been tweaked so that it can make between 237 and 246 hp, a considerable bump up from the stock car's 200 hp. Matched to a six-speed sequential transmission, the rally car also benefits from a limited-slip differential and a roll cage. For those who want their very own rally-style GT86, the car will be available to customers in Europe, though only in kit form. If you want to catch the GT86 CS-R3 in action, make sure to check in during the ADAC Rallye Deustchland, which will cover 170 miles over 18 stages from August 21-24. Source: Toyota

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Both the last-generation 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata and the redesigned 2015 Hyundai Sonata are being recalled for two separate issues. The 2011-2014 Sonata recall concerns a fault with the transmission shift cable linkage, and the 2015 Sonata recall concerns a defect with the front brake calipers. See more information below. 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata The Problem: The transmission shift cable can detach from the shift lever pin, meaning that the displayed gear selection might not match the actual gear. This could cause the car to move unexpectedly or even roll away, since it's possible for the driver to put the shift lever into the Park position without the vehicle's transmission actually being in Park. The Fix: Hyundai is notifying owners of affected vehicles to bring their cars into dealers. These dealers will inspect cars for the defect; if the problem is found, they will repair the connection between the shift cable and the shift lever. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: 883,000 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata models manufactured between December 11, 2009 and May 29, 2014. 2015 Hyundai Sonata The Problem: Due to a problem with the manufacturing process, one or both of the front brake calipers may fracture, reducing braking force and possibly causing a crash. The Fix: Hyundai notified owners last month of the issue and instructed them not to drive their 2015 Hyundai Sonata sedans. Dealers are replacing the affected brake calipers free of charge. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: 5650 2015 Hyundai Sonata sedans manufactured between April 25, 2014 and June 16, 2014. Source: NHTSA

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Toyota has issued two repair programs for nearly 178,000 2007-2011 Toyota Camry Hybrids following a federal investigation, but Consumer Reports doesn't think those alone are enough, saying that it should recall the cars instead. The influential outlet claims Toyota should recall the 177,500 Camry Hybrids because of "a series of acknowledged defects in a crucial safety system." The issue lies in the Camry Hybrid's brake system, which may be defective in certain 2007-2011 models. The NHTSA launched a preliminary investigation earlier this year after it received 59 complaints of delayed braking actuation and increased stopping distances, prompting them to send notifications out to dealers and affected owners, saying that one or more brake-system dashboard warning lights may be lit and that "front brake assist could be temporarily lost." Instead of issuing a recall, the automaker launched two separate service campaigns since the issue with the brakes stems from two different defects. The first is a clogged brake fluid reservoir filter, which Toyota has offered to replace in affected vehicles from now until June 30, 2017. Even if owners haven't experienced the problem, they can still have the part replaced for free, and if they've already paid for the repair, they may be able to get their money back. The second defect involves a faulty ABS brake actuator. In the event that it fails, warning lights will come on and require the driver to push really hard on the brake pedal to stop the car. The ABS function won't activate either. The fix for this problem is a new actuator and replacement or reprogramming of the stroke sensor computer chip, but instead of a service campaign, the automaker has issued a warranty extension, which takes the standard warranty period from 3 years/36 months to 10 years/150,000 miles. An ABS actuator can cost at least $1000, while it can run more than $3000 to actually replace, according to Consumer Reports . Unlike the service campaign, the warranty extension is not available to those who don't experience a problem with the brakes. In response to Consumer Reports ' report titled "Why Toyota Should Recall the Camry Hybrid," a spokesman for the automaker told Automotive News that it was working with U.S. safety regulators at the NHTSA. "We believe our actions to address this issue are appropriate, and we are continuing to cooperate with NHTSA in its investigation," he said. Several automakers have been playing it safe over the last few months, recalling vehicles for every little thing after General Motors was slapped with multi-million-dollar fines for its ignition switch recall. Source: Consumer Reports , Automotive News (Subscription Required)

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Coupes are "me" cars, not "we" cars, their back seats more hypothetical than practical, so as far as I'm concerned, the smaller the sedan you coupe-ify, the better. Retiring the CTS coupe in favor of this new 2015 Cadillac ATS coupe, then, seems like a step in the right direction -- especially as that gets it onto the far lighter architecture of GM's Alpha platform. The ATS is aimed squarely at BMW's iconic 3 and 4 Series, and while Cadillac doesn't change the coupe's name, it changes its bodywork at least as much as the Bavarians do. (The hood is the only shared exterior panel.) Some of the work is subtle enough that it needs attention. The front and rear track are widened by 0.8 inch, and the fenders are sensuously flared to cover this broader stance, adding 1.4 inches to the width. That track increase is achieved entirely with wheel offsets, giving the Coupe's unique wheels more stylish, deeper-set hubs. The grille gets Cadillac's new wreathless crest, and a design using horizontal bars notched to hint at Caddy's signature egg-crate design. Slimmer side mirrors cribbed from the CTS look sleeker, and frameless front door glass means the bright trim is mounted to the body, where the designers were free to vary its width more. And a slim C-pillar "sail panel" gives the greenhouse a lighter, airier appearance. Killjoy side-impact regs nixed a truly airy B-pillarless "hardtop" design with roll-down rear windows. The decklid is lower, and the shorter, squatter taillamps that go with it give the car a noticeably lower and wider look than the sedan The roof drops 1.1 inches, slicing an inch off front headroom and 1.7 off the rear, making it comfortable only for very short-waisted people. Rear legroom is astonishingly unchanged from the sedan's 33.5 inches, but hip room shrinks by a whopping 7.8 inches in back with the loss of the center seating position. The trunk is apparently widened and lengthened enough to compensate for the lower decklid, preserving the sedan's 10.4 cubic feet of luggage space. The new coupe's unibody uses 380 feet of structural adhesive to boost torsional rigidity by 42 percent relative to the CTS coupe. Added chassis rigidity allows the suspension to be that much more precise, and toward that end the top-level "FE3" Magnetic Ride Control suspension is revised to provide more consistent performance at extremes of operating temperatures. Another chassis revision is a slight reduction in the amount of steering assist from the rack-mounted ZF electric assist, to increase road feel. And folks in the top half of the country will be happy to learn that the tire fitments closely match those of BMW, for which winter tires are widely available. But enough preamble. Let's strap in and drive. Having driven our long-term ATS sedan the morning before, I was freshly aware of sitting slightly back and lower, with no B-pillar looming in my peripheral vision. The first leg in an ATS4 2.0T offered some freeway cruising and a chance to try the new lane-keeping assist system, which nudges the car to stay within the lane, but won't let you bounce from lane marker to lane marker with your hands off the wheel. This leg also indicated that coupes don't get any more sound-deadening material than sedans, so there's more road noise than in the competition. Next up I grabbed a rear-drive 3.6 with the MRC suspension, which certainly buttons down the damping in Sport mode to a noticeable degree over the standard suspension. This leg provided opportunities for passing and enjoying the (slightly sound-enhanced via stereo) tenor wail of the V-6. It pulls hard to redline, reminding you of its 49-hp advantage over the now torquier turbo-four. Having been tipped off that the third leg of our three-state (CT-MA-NY) drive was the twistiest, I commandeered a RWD 2.0T manual for this leg, taking full advantage of its abundant low-end torque to pull out of corners, then short-shifting just a bit past the 5500-rpm power peak. (It makes mostly noise at the 6500 rpm redline.) And frankly, the base suspension suited this kind of driving quite well. There were no extraneous body motions on the bumpy stuff, and the ride quality seemed close enough to the FE3's Tour mode to suit me. A sport steering mode further reduces power assist, allowing the wheel to transmit very nice twitches and wiggles as the surface varies, while weighting up reasonably well in the corners. The shifter doesn't feel or work quite as slickly as a BMW stick, and the sixth gear synchros sometimes complained when trying to skip fifth after winding out fourth. This engine makes more power and torque than its BMW counterpart, but it feels grainier and I wish I could turn up its mid-range and treble sound settings. Should BMW be worried? This Caddy's chassis dynamics are more than a match, and even if the ATS coupes don't outrun their less powerful (but probably grossly underrated) BMW counterparts, they should perform strongly enough to satisfy the test-drive customer. I'd call styling a draw. I'd give the user-friendliness of the latest iDrive an edge over CUE, but of course Cadillac trumps on connectivity with 4G LTE, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and new standard wireless phone charging. So yeah, with 70 percent of ATS buyers to date being new to Cadillac, BMW should expect this tasty new two-door to woo a few would-be 4 Series buyers. 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe BASE PRICE $39,990-$48,595 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, RWD/AWD, 5-pass, 4-door coupe ENGINES 2.0L/272-hp/295-lb-ft turbocharged DOHC 16-valve I-4; 3.6L/321-hp/275-lb-ft DOHC 24-valve V-6 TRANSMISSION 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT 3400-3700 lb (mfr) WHEELBASE 109.3 in LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT 183.6 x 72.5 x 55.9-56.4 in 0-60 MPH 5.5-6.1 sec (MT est) EPA CITY/HWY FUEL ECON 18-21 / 26-30 / 21-24 mpg ENERGY CONSUMPTION, CITY/HWY 160-187 / 112-130 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS, COMB 0.80-0.93 lb/mile ON SALE IN U.S. Currently

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OKCupid on Monday wrote a viral blog post where it admitted to experimenting on human beings, comparing tests it runs to improve its dating algorithms to the study Facebook did that took over the news cycle early this month. Today Reuters reported that like Facebook's experiment, these tests could violate Federal Trade Commission regulations. "But guess what, everybody: if you use the Internet, you're the subject of hundreds of experiments at any given time, on every site," OKCupid Founder Christian Rudder wrote in the tongue-in-cheek post. "That's how websites work." The blog post led to a series of articles from publications ranging from the Washington Post to the Verge comparing it to Facebook's experiments and disparaging the company for lying to customers. This actually seems a lot worse than the Facebook experiment: http://t.co/e7Z9KN7cvw?ncid=txtlnkusaolp00000618 Ezra Klein (@ezraklein) July 28, 2014 OKCupid has been conducting experiments on you for funsies http://t.co/N8DEvIysRg?ncid=txtlnkusaolp00000618 Jezebel (@Jezebel) July 28, 2014 Some have tried to explain why this testing is less controversial than Facebook's . It's not simply because a much smaller group of people use the dating website. OKCupid's tests were just different. As Josh Constine noted , when we use Facebook, Google, Twitter, Google, Yahoo or Linkedin, we agree to be part of experiments that will alter our experiences in an attempt to make us visit a site longer or click more things. That's what OKCupid was doing. In Monday's post, Rudder described three "of the more interesting" experiments the company has run. In one experiment, OKCupid removed all the photos from its website as it was rolling out a blind dating app to see how it impacted use. In the second, OKCupid ran a test to see how much a user's picture affects viewer's perception of their personalities. In the third, OKCupid told users that they had a 90 percent compatibility rate with users who they actually shared a 30 percent rate with. By removing photos from its website, OKCupid learned information it could apply to its blind dating app. In its second test, it found that users saw personality and looks to be the same thing, and now instead of rating people on both personality and looks, users simply give one overall rating. Its third test seems to be the most controversial, but essentially it confirmed that OKCupid's dating algorithm actually works users don't just work out because OKCupid suggests it. All of these tests or experiments were done to improve user's experience on the OKCupid website. When people sign up for OKCupid, they're signing up for a service that is going to connect them with strangers based on data they enter. Manipulating that data and finding best practices is just OKCupid doing its job. At the basic level, all social networks are altering what you see in your feed to make the time you spend on them better. But Facebook's study went beyond that. Facebook manipulated content in users' feeds to see if the emotional tone of their News Feeds impacted the tone of their own posts on the social network, deliberately making people sad. After conducting the test on almost 700,000 users, it published those results in an academic journal. Unlike OKCupid, Facebook didn't alter the user's experience simply to improve the algorithm for a business purpose. In this study, the company essentially conducted a psychological experiment that many consider unethical . People sign up for Facebook to interact with their friends and read the content they share both good and bad. As many before me have noted, Facebook shouldn't mess with that for the sake of a study, especially one conducted without its users consent. Some of the OKCupid experiments were obvious to the users for example, you can see when no one has a picture on the website. Rudder also told Reuters the users were notified of the tests after the fact, and he also said users consent to such testing under the "diagnostic research" provision in the site's Terms of Service agreement. OKCupid's comparison of its own tests to the Facebook study blows a common practice employed by many web services out of proportion. The world of big data is new, and this is certainly not the last time we're going to see concerns flare up about tech companies employing trial and error to improve their services. But OKCupid is just being transparent about something most companies are doing. Facebook took it a step too far, and OKCupid shouldn't defend Facebook's study by disclosing its own experiments.

lifestyle

With all of the knee-buckling numbers surrounding the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat , we were inspired to compile a few lists of the fastest vehicles currently on sale that we've tested, ranked by their quarter-mile elapsed time, trap speed, and power. In each list, the Hellcat makes the top 15. Let's begin the number fest with the drag-racer's favorite: E/T. 1. 2014 McLaren P1: 9.8 seconds @148.9 mph 2. 2014 Porsche 918 Spyder: 10 seconds @145.2 mph 3. 2012 Lamborghini Aventador (U.S. Spec): 10.8 seconds @132.2 mph 4. 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S: 10.9 seconds @123.7 mph 5. 2014 Nissan GT-R Track Pack: 11 seconds @125.1 mph 6. 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia: 11.1 seconds @125.2 mph 7. 2014 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta: 11.3 seconds @ 131.7 mph 8. 2014 Audi R8 V-10 Plus: 11.3 seconds @125.8 mph 9. 2014 SRT Viper TA: 11.3 seconds @129.3 mph 10: 2014 Audi RS 7: 11.6 seconds @120.4 mph 11. 2014 Jaguar F-Type V8 S: 11.6 seconds @122 mph 12. 2014 Mercedes-Benz E63 S AMG sedan: 11.6 seconds @121.8 mph 13. 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat: 11.7 seconds @125.4 mph 14. 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG S: 11.7 seconds @122.7 mph 15: 2013 Audi S8: 11.8 seconds @118.3 mph Honorable mentions: The Shelby GT500 is not included on this list, due to the fact that it is no longer in production. However, if we're counting, it did the quarter mile in 11.6 seconds at a trap speed of 125.7 mph. The McLaren 12C was recently replaced by the new 650S, which we have yet to test. The last 12C we tested, however, did the deed in 10.8 seconds at 130.7 mph. The CLS63 S AMG and E63 S AMG wagon tied the Hellcat with 11.7-second quarter-mile times. Quarter-mile times rarely tell the whole story. Oftentimes, just as important are the trap speeds. Those are the speeds at which the car in question crosses the finish line at the drag strip. Notice how the Hellcat jumps from being number 14 on the list to number eight, ahead of supercars like the 458 Italia, Nissan GTR, and the Porsche 911 Turbo S. 1. 2014 McLaren P1: 9.8 seconds @148.9 mph 2. 2014 Porsche 918 Spyder: 10 seconds @145.2 mph 3. 2012 Lamborghini Aventador (U.S. Spec): 10.8 seconds @132.2 mph 4. 2014 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta: 11.3 seconds @ 131.7 mph 5. 2014 SRT Viper TA: 11.3 seconds @129.3 mph 6. 2014 Audi R8 V-10 Plus: 11.3 seconds @125.8 mph 7. 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat: 11.7 seconds @125.4 mph 8. 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia: 11.1 seconds @125.2 mph 9. 2014 Nissan GT-R Track Pack: 11 seconds @125.1 mph 10. 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S: 10.9 seconds @123.7 mph 11. 2014 BMW M6: 12.1 seconds @123.1 mph 12. 2014 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG: 11.6 seconds @ 123 mph 13. 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG S: 11.7 seconds @ 122.7 mph 14. 2014 BMW M5: 11.9 seconds @122.5 mph 15. 2014 Jaguar F-Type V8 S: 11.6 seconds @ 122 mph Finally, we get to power. These rankings include the most powerful vehicles still in production, but keep in mind that it considers only those we have tested . No surprise here, the Hellcat is near the top of the list, at number four. Also, for some manufacturers, the same engine with the same power output is used across a wide range of models, so some models, like the Aston Martin and the Mercedes, are representative of an entire line of vehicles utilizing that engine. This is to keep it uniform across the board. 1. 2014 McLaren P1: 904 hp 2. 2014 Porsche 918 Spyder: 887 hp 3. 2014 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta: 731 hp 4. 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat: 707 hp 5. 2012 Lamborghini Aventador: 691 hp 6. 2014 SRT Viper: 640 hp 7. 2014 Bentley Flying Spur: 616 hp 8. 2014 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: 580 hp 9. 2014 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S: 577 hp 10. 2014 BMW M5: 575 hp 11. 2014 Aston Martin Vantage V12 S: 565 hp 12. 2014 Rolls-Royce Ghost: 563 hp 13. 2014 Audi RS7: 560 hp 14. 2014 Audi R8 V10 Plus: 560 hp 15. 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S: 560 hp Honorable mentions: The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series, while powered by a 622-hp V-8, is no longer in production, so it misses the cut. Also, while we would love to include the 2015 Corvette C7 Z06 with its supercharged 650 horsepower, it hasn't entered production quite yet and we've yet to test it. A previous version of this article didn't list the Porsche 918 Spyder's combined horsepower figure. The rankings for the horsepower list have been changed. Because the standard Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 is no longer in production, it has been removed from all lists. The Grand Sport and Grand Sport Vitesse models are still available, but we have yet to test them. Finally, the Aventador's output rating has been changed to reflect SAE-spec horsepower.

autos

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently concluded crash test on a dozen small cars including the Nissan Juke, Mini Cooper Countryman, and Ford C-Max Hybrid. Of those 12 cars, only the 2014 Chevrolet Volt earned the institute's coveted Top Safety Pick+ rating, while a handful of models didn't fare as well. The Volt, equipped with the optional Forward Collision Alert system, was put through the institute's small overlap front crash test, and earned an "acceptable" score, one notch down from the highest rating of "good." Added to the institute's barrage of tests in 2012, the small overlap front crash test simulates a frontal collision that impacts the driver's side corner at 40 mph. The Volt earned a "basic" rating for front crash prevention and was rated either "acceptable" or "good" in all other tests. Meanwhile, the IIHS awarded Top Safety Pick ratings to the Mini Cooper Countryman, Ford C-Max Hybrid , Mitsubishi Lancer, Scion FR-S , and Subaru BRZ . The Countryman earned a "good" rating in the small overlap test, while the others were rated "acceptable." The Scion xB and Hyundai Veloster earned a "marginal" rating. Four other cars, however, earned the lowest score of "poor" in the front overlap test, including the Fiat 500L, Mazda5, Nissan Juke, and Leaf. In most cases, the vehicle's overall structure severely collapsed, and would likely cause significant injuries to passengers. The institute notes that the Volt, Leaf, and C-Max Hybrid showed no issues with their battery packs following the tests. Unfortunately, the Mazda5's bad news goes beyond its poor performance in the small overlap front test. The three-row Mazda5 earned a "marginal" rating in the side impact evaluation, making it the only model-year 2014 vehicle (tested by the IIHS) to earn less than an "acceptable" in that test. The Mazda also showed other unfavorable results from the barrage of testing, including the driver door unlatching and the side curtain airbag failing to deploy during the small overlap front test. The test results were enough for Consumer Reports to retract two models from its list of recommended cars. In addition to the Mazda5, the publication will no longer recommend the Nissan Leaf. "The Mazda5 is an affordable, versatile vehicle that we have enjoyed and endorsed, but this test raises serious concerns," CR stated in a release. In the case of the Leaf, the publication noted a number of concerns, including the 16 inches of intrusion into the lower passenger compartment during the small overlap front test. Source: IIHS, Consumer Reports

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For years now, Toyota's Prius has been the punch line to a car guy's joke. And, in truth, that's a little unfair, because viewed objectively in terms of its intended function the Prius is an absolute home run. There is no other C-segment family hatchback on the market that is as roomy inside or as frugal at the gas pump. It does exactly what its designers intended. The Prius is Toyota-tough, too. I recently rode from JFK to Manhattan in a six-year-old Prius taxi whose owner-driver couldn't stop waxing lyrical about it. "I love this car," said the 40-year veteran cabbie. Sure, the Prius felt a little rattly from the back seat and the interior was well-scuffed, but NYC cab miles are like dog years, and this thing had 169,000 of them on the clock. "It still has the original brakes, shocks, and bushings," the cabbie enthused, "and I've never replaced the transmission fluid. It needs far less maintenance than a Crown Vic, and the money I've saved on gas has paid for it." I glanced at the fuel consumption display glowing on the dash: Over the past 299 miles, this dog-eared Prius taxi had averaged 41.5 mpg. For automotive engineers, the Prius' enabling technology -- Toyota's innovative and highly efficient hybrid powertrain -- is a thing of beauty. But for car guys the Prius is simply a bore to drive, with lethargic throttle response, numb steering, poor grip, and indifferent suspension. Its distinctive silhouette and faintly space-age interior signal to even the least car-literate person that this Toyota's phenomenal gas mileage is because of something very different going on under the hood. The Prius has, therefore, become the definitive hybrid car. And, by definition, hybrids have been deemed boring. Let me run a couple of numbers by you: 0-60 mph in 2.4 seconds, and the quarter mile in 9.8. These are the fastest acceleration times we've ever recorded in 65 years of instrumented testing here at Motor Trend. And they were set, respectively, by Porsche's 918 and McLaren's P1, both cars with hybrid powertrains. Boring? Not so much. I suspect, when auto historians of the future look back at 2014, they'll say it was the year "hybrid" became the new fast. The three new road-going hypercars launched this year -- the 887-hp Porsche 918, the 904-hp McLaren P1, and the 950-hp Ferrari LaFerrari -- have all set new performance benchmarks using hybrid powertrains. And, of course, this is the year the world's elite racing category, Formula 1, switched to hybrid power units. (I know there's been some moaning about the flat, muffled exhaust note of the new hybrid F1 racers, but I'd happily trade noise for the opportunity to watch the world's best drivers attempt to tame cars that are clearly a real handful, thanks to instant-on torque and low rear-end grip.) We're already starting to see the concept of using batteries and stored electric power to boost performance trickle down from the stratospheric worlds of F1 and million-dollar sports cars to more affordable performance vehicles. With a sticker of about $137,000, BMW's futuristic new i8 sports car cost about as much as a modestly optioned Porsche 911, even though it only has a 228-hp, turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine mounted amidships. But with a 129-hp electric motor able to drive the front wheels and a small 8-hp electric motor at the rear to help spool up the combustion engine's turbo, it is expected to turn a similar sub-4-second 0-60-mph acceleration time. Meanwhile, Porsche is reportedly working on hybrid versions of the 911 Turbo S and Panamera Turbo S that will deliver 700-plus hp. The next-gen Acura NSX will be a hybrid, too. Fast-forward a decade or so, and hybrid technology will almost certainly be making performance Chevys and Volkswagens and Hondas go quicker. The Toyota Prius deserves its reputation as a car for people who don't particularly care about driving. But don't blame the technology under the hood. Remember, hybrid is the new fast. More from The Big Picture: Land Rover Reinvents An Icon Beyond Infiniti The Death of the Australian Auto Industry

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Kim waves to fans, plus more stars out and about Kim Kardashian is seen leaving Craig's on Feb. 6 in Los Angeles. Jennifer Garner steps out with son Samuel Affleck n Feb. 6 in Los Angeles. Natalie Portman arrives at the Oscar Nominee Luncheon on Feb. 6 in Los Angeles. Fergie is seen at LAX on Feb. 7 in Los Angeles. Pamela Anderson is seen at the Ecuadorian Embassy taking vegan cheeseburgers to Julian Assange on Feb. 7 in London, England. Sarah Jessica Parker is seen out and about with her kids Marion Broderick and Tabitha Broderick on Feb. 7 in Los Angeles. Helena Bonham Carter is seen out and about on Feb. 6 in New York. Rosamund Pike, David Oyelowo and director Amma Asante attend Forevermark Presents the World Premiere of Fox Searchlight's 'A United Kingdom' - After Party on Feb. 6 in New York. Dakota Fanning steps out on Feb. 6 in New York. Rihanna is seen on set filming 'Ocean's Eight' on Feb. 6 in New York. Victoria Beckham is seen on Feb. 6 in New York. Actresses Laura Dern and Nicole Kidman attend the 89th Annual Academy Awards Nominee Luncheon on Feb. 6 in Beverly Hills, California. Gian Luca Passi de Preposulo and Jessica Chastain attend the Lakers Vs. the Knicks' game on Feb. 6 in New York. Heidi Klum is seen at LAX on Feb. 6 in Los Angeles. Gloria Steinem and Octavia Spencer speak onstage during the 2017 MAKERS Conference Day 1 on Feb. 6 in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Presenter Justin Timberlake assists producer Brian Grazer onstage at AARP's 16th Annual Movies For Grownups Awards on Feb. 6 in Beverly Hills, California. Actor Denzel Washington attends AARP's 16th Annual Movies For Grownups Awards on Feb. 6 in Beverly Hills, California. Actress Emma Stone is seen out and about on Feb. 6 in Los Angeles. Actor Matt Damon arrives at the 89th Oscars Nominee Luncheon, on Feb. 6 in Beverly Hills, California. Jane Fonda is seen on Feb. 6 in Los Angeles. Duchess Kate visits Mitchell Brook school on Feb. 6 in London. Gwen Stefani is seen on Feb. 5 in Los Angeles, California. Sarah Jessica Parker and her daughters, Marion Broderick and Tabitha Broderick, are seen on Feb. 6 in New York. Casey Affleck and Michelle Williams pose backstage with the Cinema Vanguard Award during the 32nd Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Feb. 5 in Santa Barbara, California. Jennifer Garner is seen on Feb. 5 in Los Angeles, California. Ben Affleck is seen on Feb. 5 in Los Angeles, California. Rita Ora is seen on Feb. 6 in New York. Gigi Hadid is seen on Feb. 5 in New York City. Sarah Michelle Gellar and Mamie Parris as 'Grizabella' pose backstage at the hit musical 'Cats' on Broadway on Feb. 5 in New York City. Gisele Bündchen and family celebrate Tom Brady's Super Bowl win on Feb. 5 in Houston, Texas. Singer Lady Gaga performs during the halftime show of the NFL Super Bowl 51 football game on Feb. 5 in Houston, TX. Seattle Seahawks' Michael Bennett, left, takes selfie with actor Mark Wahlberg on Feb. 5 in Houston, TX. Country music artist Luke Bryan waves on the field to sing the national anthem before the NFL Super Bowl 51 on Feb. 5 in Houston, TX. Recording artist Usher and actor Harry Connick Jr. attend the Super Bowl LI Pregame Show on Feb. 5 in Houston, TX. Actors Michael Pena and Dax Shepard attend the Super Bowl LI Pregame on Feb. 5 in Houston, TX. Lucas Hedges is seen on Feb. 5 in New York. Famke Janssen is seen on Feb. 5 in New York. Taylor Swift performs at DIRECTV NOW Super Saturday Night Concert at Club Nomadic on Feb. 4 in Houston, Texas. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry join Team Heads Together at a London Marathon Training Day at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on Feb. 5 in London, England. Lauren Conrad attends designer Rebecca Minkoff's Spring 2017 'See Now, Buy Now' Fashion Show at The Grove on Feb. 4 in Los Angeles, California. Will Ferrell and John C Reilly attend the Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Feb. 4 in London, England. Alec and Hilaria Baldwin are seen on Feb. 4 in New York. Amber Rose and her son Sebastian Taylor Thomaz arrive at the premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures' 'The LEGO Batman Movie' at the Regency Village Theatre on Feb. 4 in Westwood, California. Emma Heming Willis, Bruce Willis, David Duchovny and Kyd Miller Duchovny attend the Cleveland Cavaliers Vs. New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden on February 4, 2017 in New York City. Victoria Justice attends designer Rebecca Minkoff's Spring 2017 'See Now, Buy Now' Fashion Show at The Grove on Feb. 4 in Los Angeles, California. Mariah Carey and her children Moroccan Scott Cannon and Monroe Cannon arrive at the premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures' 'The LEGO Batman Movie' at the Regency Village Theatre on Feb. 4 in Westwood, California. (L-R) Katie Cassidy and Jessica Szohr and model Jessica Stam attend Rebecca Minkkoff's 'See Now, Buy Now' fashion show at The Grove on Feb. 4 in Los Angeles, California. Reese Witherspoon is seen on Feb. 4 in Los Angeles, California. Emmanuelle Chriqui attends designer Rebecca Minkoff's Spring 2017 'See Now, Buy Now' Fashion Show at The Grove on Feb. 4 in Los Angeles, California. (L-R) Honorees Dev Patel, Mahershala Ali, Simon Helberg, Aaron Taylor Johnson, Janelle Monae, Stephen Henderson, Ruth Negga, and Naomie Harris visit the Dom Perignon Lounge after receiving the Virtuosos Award at The Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Feb. 4 in Santa Barbara, California. JinJoo Lee of DNCE, Fergie, and Ludacris attend the Maxim Super Bowl Party on Feb. 5 in Houston, Texas. Mahershala Ali attends the Virtuosos Award presented by UGG during the 32nd Santa Barbara International Film Festival at the Arlington Theatre on Feb. 4 in Santa Barbara, California. Jessica Alba is seen on Feb. 4 in Los Angeles. Uzo Aduba and guest attend Cleveland Cavaliers Vs. New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden on Feb. 4 in New York City. Regina King and Ian Alexander Jr. attend Cleveland Cavaliers Vs. New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden on Feb. 4 in New York City. Emma Stone at the Outstanding Performers of the Year Award during Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Feb. 3 in California. Jenny McCarthy visits the SiriusXM set at Super Bowl LI Radio Row on Feb. 3 in Houston. Ethan Hawke filming Paul Schrader's 'First Reformed' on Feb. 3 in New York. Charlie Cox and Krysten Ritter film Marvel's "The Defenders" on Feb. 3 in New York. Amanda Seyfried and Thomas Sadoski out and about on Feb. 3 in New York. Alyssa Milano visits the SiriusXM set at Super Bowl LI Radio Row on Feb. 3 in Houston. Ryan Gosling at the Outstanding Performers of the Year Award during Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Feb. 3 in California. Alec Baldwin and Hilaria Baldwin out and about on Feb. 3 in New York. Hasty Pudding Theatricals Honors Ryan Reynolds as 2017 Man Of The Year on Feb. 3 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. LeAnn Rimes LeAnn Rimes at the 'Today Show' TV Show on Feb. 3 in New York. Bethenny Frankel out and about with Dogs (Biggie and Smalls) on Feb. 3 in New York. Alessandra Ambrosio is seen out and about on Feb. 3 in Los Angeles. Tituss Burgess filming "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" on Feb. 3 in New York. Sofia Richie is seen with her dog Roscoe Hamilton on Feb. 3 in Los Angeles. (L-R) Musical guest Alessia Cara, host Kristen Stewart, and Leslie Jones pose on Saturday Night Live on Feb. 2 in New York. Actress Dakota Johnson attends the premiere of Universal Pictures' "Fifty Shades Darker" on Feb. 2 in Los Angeles. Actress Priyanka Chopra enters the "Late Show With Stephen Colbert" taping on Feb. 2 in New York. Famke Janssen filming NBC-Tv's Blacklist spin off: "Redemption" on Feb. 2 in New York. Actress Busy Philipps making cards at the Michaels Galentine's Day Celebration on Feb. 2 in Los Angeles. Lena Dunham, Allison Williams, Zosia Mamet and Jemima Kirke attend the Premiere of the sixth and final season of 'Girls' - After Party hosted by HBO on Feb. 2 in New York. Denzel Washington at the Maltin Modern Master Award during the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Feb. 2 in California. Lady Gaga attends the Pepsi Zero Sugar Half Time Show Press conference at Superbowl Media Centre on Feb. 2 in Houston. Keanu Reeves attends the Build series on Feb. 2 in New York. Milla Jovovich, steps out of the new Toyota C-HR onto a catwalk at the world's first drive through immersive theatre experience on Feb. 2 in London, England. Andrew Garfield and Annette Bening appear on the Graham Norton Show on Feb. 2 in London. Alessandra Ambrosio out and about on Feb. 2 in Los Angeles. Jenny McCarthy during "The Jenny McCarthy Show" at SiriusXM Studios on Feb. 2 in New York. Gigi Hadid out and about on Feb. 2 in New York. Kourtney Kardashian is seen out and about on Feb. 2 in Los Angeles. Coco Austin is seen out and about with her baby girl Chanel Nicole Marrow on Feb. 2 in New York. Nick Cannon at the taping of Nickelodeon's Superstar Slime Showdown at Super Bowl on Feb. 2 in Houston. Ali Landry poses with puppies at Hollywood Today Live on Feb. 2 in Hollywood. Johnny Knoxville and Colin Hanks attend "Eagles of Death Metal: Nos Amis (Our Friends)" premiere from HBO & Live Nation Productions on Feb. 2 in Los Angeles. Musician Wyclef Jean visits the SiriusXM Studios on Feb. 2 in New York. Saint West, Kim Kardashian West and North West leave their Midtown Manhattan hotel on Feb. 1 in New York City. Amanda Seyfried is seen on the set of 'First Reform' on Feb. 1 in New York City. Drew Barrymore signs autographs for fans at the 'Santa Clarita Diet' Premiere on Feb. 1 in Los Angeles. Prince Harry talks to medical staff as part of the Heads Together campaign at the London Ambulance Service in support of 'Time to Talk' day on Feb. 2 in London, England. Jennifer Connelly and Paul Bettany are seen on Feb. 2 in New York. Rob Lowe is seen at 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' on Feb. 1 in Los Angeles, California. Judd Apatow, host Jimmy Fallon, and actor Keanu Reeves during Kid Stand-Up on Feb. 1.

entertainment

Way back in 1995, GM, Ross Perot's Electronic Data Systems, and Hughes Electronics teamed up to forge the blue button that brought telematics to the masses with OnStar. Now that it's officially reached the age of adulthood, OnStar is upping its game with the largest rollout of automotive 4G LTE connectivity in the industry. Yes, Audi and Chrysler's Uconnect have been offering in-car Wi-Fi, but those systems have relied on the slower 3G network. (the 2015 Audi A3 will employ 4G LTE.) GM plans to make the equipment standard across all passenger models by 2016. Each new car will leave the factory connected to the cloud, but at the point of delivery buyers fearful of Big Brotherly love will have the option to sever the connection completely. The new equipment will function on the AT&T network (Verizon had been the carrier of choice for years). The upgrade brings transmission speeds up to 100 times faster than the previous OnStar 2G connection, and 10 times faster than competitors' 3G systems -- crucial when accessing large files or streaming video or high-quality audio, or when the allowable seven devices are connected to the Wi-Fi link and accessing the Internet. The system works up to 50 feet away, so close convoy vehicles could connect, but password protection keeps freeloaders off your connection. Benefits relative to "brought-in" telematics connections that rely on Bluetooth or a tethered cellphone connection include a much more powerful and robust antenna connection, the ability to function reliably to summon help after an accident that could eject or damage a loose phone, and a greater ability for the car to upload diagnostic info and download software and firmware upgrades from the cloud. The cars will also come preloaded with apps that include iHeartRadio, Priceline.com, the Weather Channel, NPR, Slacker Radio, TuneIn Radio, Cityseeker, Eventseeker, Glympse, and Kaliki, with more on the way. All can naturally connect through the car's data link, rather than relying on a corded or Bluetooth smartphone link. The plan is to offer the full OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi, emergency assistance, turn-by-turn navigation, RemoteLink mobile app, wireless calling, FamilyLink, monthly diagnostic reports and on-demand diagnostics -- the works -- for free for three months, reverting to free basic service (emergency response, diagnostics, and remote starting) for five years total. After the trial period, customers must pay $29.95 a month for everything but 4G LTE, or $19.95 for just the Safe & Secure package. OnStar subscribers pay $5 more for 4G LTE, or if they ONLY want 4G LTE they can get it for as little as $10 a month. (AT&T customers can add their car as an additional device to include OnStar data in a Mobile Share pooled data plan.) That entry price gets 200MB, and OnStar subscriber/non-subscriber pricing escalates with higher monthly data rates: 1GB ($15/$20), 3GB ($30/$30), 5GB ($50/$50). Going on vacation? You can buy 250 MB/day for $5, and just turn it on during the days the car will be in transit. There's also a yearly 10GB package for $150 ($200 for non-subscribers). Today OnStar claims 7 million subscribers in North America (Mexico is just launching) and China. That's a pretty slim percentage of all the GM OnStar-equipped vehicles that have been built in the last 18 years, but perhaps today's connectivity- uber-alles mentality will boost those stats. See the graphic below for a list of 2015-model-year Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac vehicles that will get 4G LTE.

autos