The Universe suddenly decided that we needed lots of snow – and very quickly – so it’s been a little gloomy around here lately.
I live in a place that is usually very sunny and, combined with lots of sparkly snow, the lake house is cheery, even once the wintry weather hits. But lately it’s been a little grey.
So I’m grateful that April Notes, a women-owned small business that makes all kinds of beautiful textiles for the bedroom, kitchen, dining room, and bathroom, sent me a beautiful new linen duvet cover and pillow cases, in a lovely beige and cream stripe:
Switching from my grey duvet cover to this lighter beige one immediately made the bedroom feel lighter and warmer. Until the sun decides to peek out on a consistent basis again, I’m just going to lean into the cozy vibes, so I’m sharing some photos of my space, and new bedding, that may seem a little glowier and a little less bright than usual.
When Ieva, the founder of April Notes, reached out to me about reviewing a product from her shop, her story really resonated with me. Striving to live an intentional life, she’s created a textile brand focused on producing quality products, with minimal environmental impact – even the packaging is plant-based. Everything is sewn and shipped from Lithuania. As a home decor content creator, I sometimes feel a little distressed by the fast pace with which design trends cycle (and the waste we create chasing them). I decided to eschew fast fashion and decor, a long time ago, and focus on creating a home with my own design style, decorated with quality products I can use for a long time. In my home and clothing, I’m especially drawn to natural fibers, like wool, linen, and cotton, because they’re durable and can last for a long time. When a natural fiber item eventually wears out, or I no longer have a use for it, I re-purpose! I’ve sewn old bedding into curtains, created a tree skirt and seasonal garland from discarded wool blankets, and turned a misguided shower curtain purchase into a laundry tub skirt. I never understand people who throw away old cotton pyjamas – is that not how everyone gets their dust rags, lol? With this mindset driving my shopping habits, I was really drawn to the mission of April Notes.
I personally think that natural materials are often much more comfortable, especially when close to the skin. I’ve been washing and using my April Notes duvet covet and pillow covers for a little while and the quality is lovely. They wash and wear well, and have softened with each wash. The nubbly texture is satisfying and I love how linen looks when it’s a little wrinkly on a bed. It’s a relaxed but put together look that feels very, very comfortable – and perfectly cozy for the long winter ahead!
Ieva grew up in a coastal town, while I grew up on the shores of Lake Superior, so I definitely appreciate how nature has inspired the April Notes aesthetic. My style has leaned more and more into coastal designs the longer I’ve lived on the lake. While I’m not into a really nautcial aesthetic, I’m influenced by the textures, colors, and moods of living beside the water. My new striped duvet cover definitely has a delightfully earthy, beachy look – but the solid linen options, in beautiful, earth inspired hues like Moss Green and Sunset Rose, are equally gorgeous and would complement so many home decor styles, easily transitioning through seasons (of weather and of life).
I was really impressed with the brand and the quality, so I wanted to share with you! With Christmas coming up, treat yourself or your loved ones to something they can use for a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for a stocking stuffer (try these striped linen napkins), hostess gift (this moss green apron is gorgeous), or just something to keep the cold out (this blush pink merino wool throw will help), you’ll find lots of beautiful gift ideas from April Notes, alongside gorgeous linen bedding. April Notes will be offering 20% off store wide from today until next Tuesday, Nov. 29th.
