Wonderland Pick: Cutting Boards

What’s good? I’ll tell you what, it’s our wide variety of cutting boards and cheese plates. They look beautiful layered in front of your kitchen back splash and as a bonus...they are so functional!

With a range of $24.75 - $35.75 for the marble and $88 - $175.00 for the wooden boards, they make the perfect gift for anyone! And I'll tell you what...they are really hot this holiday season. With dinner parties and holiday festivities in full swing, servings boards are the perfect way to serve up appetizers and desserts. So come check out our selection at Wonderland by Alice lane in Orem, UT.

-Lexi Laycock

Our Top 5 Favorite Hostess Gifts

It's December...the most wonderful time of the year! Most of the year is so "Go, go, go!" that we really just want to sit back and coast through this magical time between Thanksgiving and Christmas. We love embracing the holiday season by spending time with family and friends, and making memories that we will carry with us through the coming year. Most of all, we love the spirit of giving and showing others how much we care with the gifts we give. We're firm believers in host/hostess gifts. Call us old-fashion (we prefer classy), but nothing shows your appreciation more than a little gift left behind for your host. We've rounded up a list of our top 5 favorite hostess gifts to give this year...

1. Wood Serving Board [$24.25] - Next time your assigned to bring a snack to a holiday party, bring it on this miniature serving board and then leave it behind for the host/hostess to keep. They'll love the thoughtful gift, and you'll love going home without a dirty dish!

2. Gold Salt & Pepper Shakers [ 24.25] - You know that friend that throws the most glamorous and "pinterest worthy" dinner parties...they'll appreciate these gold metallic salt and pepper shakers. They're completely unique and unlike anything else, which means you'll instantly be promoted to the head of the dinner table this year!

3. Barr & Co. Bath Salts [32.50] - Throwing a party is hard work! Nothing says "thank you" quite like some bath salts that your hostess can soak in later that night. Especially when it's made from the highest quality ingredients like milk powder and colloidal oatmeal. Rejuvenation at it's finest!

4. Frasier Fir Diffuser [39.75] - Every hostess wants their home to smell warm and inviting. Frasier Fir is hands down our #1 scent for the season. It brings even the most reluctant into the holiday spirit! Long after the smells of good food are gone, this Frasier Fir diffuser will keep your hostesses home smelling full of life!

5. Chuao Chocolate Bar [$6.00] - Sneak a little bar of chocolate and a hand-written note on top of your hostesses pillow before you leave. They'll be completely surprised when they finally retire for the night and see your thoughtful sentiment waiting for them. After cooking and cleaning all day...their own personal bar of Chuao chocolate is just what they need to unwind!

All items are in-stock and available for purchase at Alice Lane Home Collection in Salt Lake City, so stop in and grab a hostess gift before your next holiday party (and maybe a Chuao chocolate bar for yourself too!).

Wonderland Pick: Porthole Mirrors

This series of porthole mirrors is the perfect solution to any tricky wall space. Without breaking the bank for an oversized piece of art, these can be custom hung to fill your space exactly how you want. Their hammered brass sides add the perfect touch of modern sparkle to any room – it’s like jewelry for your walls – the finishing accessory to your living room outfit!

Covington Wall Mirror Set - $245

Your home is so good to you. Treat it to some wall jewelry this holiday season, available now at our Wonderland location in Orem, UT.

- Holly A.

Wonderland Pick: Hair on Hide Pillows

Is it possible to be cozy and sophisticated at the same time? It sure is if you're a hair on hide pillow. They are perfect for adding a sense of warmth for the season while keeping your home chic and stylish.

So many colors and patterns to choose from and all at our friendly Wonderland prices of $90-$158. Come stop by our store, located in Orem, Utah today.

- Susan

Rules of Scale: Drapery

We've been talking a lot about proper scale lately, and while drapery may seem like one of those overly-talked about subjects, we will keep pounding this in your head until the entire world gets it right! It's a simple rule, but surprisingly draperies are one of the easiest things to get wrong. You can blame the shelf-stocked curtains found at most retailers for that. But before we go pointing any more fingers, let's start by going back to the basics...shall we?

Here's what you need to consider when buying and hanging drapery for your windows:

1. Rod Placement - Choke that sucker up as high as you can! Whether you have 8 or 11 foot ceilings, your rod should be placed just below your ceiling or crown molding. This draws the eye up, giving the illusion that your ceiling is taller than it actually is. A common mistake is to hang your rod just above your window casing...don't do this! Your window will appear squatty and short...and no one likes looking that way.

2. Hanging Drapes - Your rod should also extend a good foot or two beyond the width of your window when allowed. This allows you to hang your drapery over your wall instead of over your window. By hanging the bulk of your fabric over the walls, it not only allows more sunlight to stream through your windows when opened, but once again makes your windows appear larger.

3. Panel Length - This is where we blame store-bought curtains for making it so easy to go so wrong! Most drapery panels are sold in a standard 84" length, and you'll find that there simply isn't enough fabric to take you all the way to the ground. As a result, you end up either lowering your rod or letting your drapery hang like a terrible pair of flood pants. Don't do it! It may take a little customizing, but buy a longer length panel (96" or 108" are usually available) and properly hem them to barely kiss the ground. A tailored drape makes all the difference!

4. Fullness - Even if you got 1,2, and 3 right...it would all be for naught if you didn't have the right fullness. Your drapes should look functional, like they would actually cover the window when closed. A good rule of thumb is that each panel should be at least 1 to 1 1/2 times the width of the window. This will make your drapery look more generous and full whether opened or closed.

Wonderland Pick: Compartes Chocolate

OK, this week's Wonderland pick is a little unusual (you know...for a home furnishings boutique), but we just have to share how much we love these specialty chocolate bars! I mean...chocolate is already pretty good, but chocolate with Lucky Charms inside! Definitely something worth talking about. Especially now that Autumn makes everything a bit chilly, it just feels right to cuddle up in a warm blanket and indulge in some Compartes chocolate from Wonderland!

Here's the scoop...Compartes are organic chocolates and are made in small batches every day by the best chocolatiers in Los Angeles. This fashion forward chocolate is famous for integrating art and fashion into their beautiful packaging (Hello Kelly Wearstler!). They are just as delicious as they are stylish, and make for the best mid-week pick-me-ups.

Flavors range from Birthday Cake & Sprinkles to, my personal favorite, Coney Island with caramelized waffle cone pieces. Yum! They're available now at our Wonderland location and range from $9.99 to $12.99 each. Grab a few bars for easy and beautiful gift ideas, and maybe even some for your own little stash...don't worry, we don't tell.

-Lauren B.

Rules of Scale: Table Lamps

Finding the right scale of table lamp is almost as difficult as finding the right size bra (ladies...you know what we're talking about). What looks like the perfect size in store can suddenly seem way too small when you get it home! Just like any good clothing purchase usually begins with a proper fitting, so should your table lamp purchase!

Here are some quick "Rules of Scale" for you to keep in mind on your next quest for the perfect table lamp:

1. Lamp Height - A good rule of thumb is to find a table lamp that is approximately 30" tall from the bottom of the base to the top of the shade/finial. Without getting too mathematical, the top of the lamp should be between 58" and 64" from the ground. And with most end tables and bed side tables being around 28" tall, that leaves you with at least a good 30" to work with. Measure the height of your table and plan accordingly.

2. Eye Level - If you got the math right in #1, then your lamp shade will sit at about eye-level. This not only protects your eye from the blaring light of the bulb, but it also allows the light to perfectly illuminate everything below (like that book you stayed up all night reading). Test out sitting on your bed or sofa and measure where eye-level is for you. That will help you determine if you need a tall base and short shade, or visa versa.

3. Lamp Width - While we usually take the stance that bigger is better, it's also important to know your limits. Measure the width of your table and find a lamp that is no more than half that. You don't want a lamp that is too narrow, but you also don't want the lamp shade to be hanging over the edge!

4. Light - When it really comes down to it, your lamp needs to be functional. Make sure that it's large enough to radiate light where it's needed. Will you be using it to perform nightly tasks, or are you simply looking for extra ambient lighting? Defining it's purpose will help you pin down the perfect one!

Available for purchase at Wonderland by Alice Lane:  Pineapple Refraction Table Lamp - $157

Christmas on Alice Lane starts tonight!

Tonight's the night! It's time for our annual Christmas on Alice Lane event and our hearts are so full of Christmas cheer, they just might burst! Shop tonight at Wonderland by Alice Lane in Orem from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and enjoy 20% off your entire purchase. Same time and same deal tomorrow night (Thursday) at Alice Lane Home Collection in Salt Lake City.

Take a sneak peek at some of our holiday ornaments, accessories, and decor that's ready for the taking!

Wonderland Pick: Black Pineapple Lamp

Sophisticated.  Refined.  Chic.  What more could you want in a lamp? Did I mention it’s absolutely gorgeous and is a GREAT size?  Half the trouble in finding a lamp is finding the right scale for your space.  Well, look no further –we have what you’ve been looking for.

It's traditional shape and pineapple base makes it incredibly versatile. It can dress up a more formal setting, or even hang with the playful. When it comes to being stylish and affordable, this little black and brass beauty nails it on the head, coming in at only $157. Stop in to Wonderland today and take it home with you!

{Picked by: Lauren White}

Christmas on Alice Lane 2015

It's time to kick off the holidays with our annual "Christmas on Alice Lane" event! Join us at both store locations for sweet treats and shop our collection of holiday ornaments, accessories, and decor. Bonus: Everything in the store (not just Christmas stuff!) will be 20% off during each event. Can't wait to see you there!

What's Trending: Market Recap

We just got back from another glorious trip to market in High Point, NC where we previewed the newest collections from leading industry designers. Not only do we get the first glimpse at the latest trends, but we also get to met the style makers behind the beautiful designs. You could sort of say they're our heroes! Today we're sharing some of the top trends we noticed at market and what some of the experts had to say about them!

1. Animal Prints - They’re back, better, and bigger than ever! We’re known for sneaking in a hint of animal prints into our designs, but don’t be surprised if you start to see this bold print step into the spotlight more often. We saw full-blown sectionals spotted from head to toe in leopard print!

2. Visual Texture - It's texture you can see! The thing we love about this newest design trend is that it excites multiple senses at once, drawing your attention closer and closer. You don't even have to touch to know it's full of texture.

3. Angles/Geometric Shapes - The geometric craze continues with a particular vintage-modern vibe. While you’ll continue to see geometric shapes in textiles and art, you’ll also see them come to life in 3D visual design applications, such as lighting, sculptural objects, tables, etc.

4. Acrylic - The fact that acrylic can be made into just about anything has made it a very popular material. We saw it molded into beautiful light fixtures, chairs, tables, and accessories of all sorts. This is one plastic that sure knows how to get dolled up classy!

5. Color - Whether you go with bold saturated colors or muted Mediterranean hues, color is everywhere! With white walls trending, it’s particularly fun to bring a pop of color in through your art and upholstery.

Available for purchase at Alice Lane Home:  1. Axis Deer Fur Lumbar Pillow - $407 | 2. Rigid Canister - $62 | 3. Brass Cube Sculpture - $59 | 4. Melrose Bar Cart - $1,674 | 5. Fabric swatches not available for purchase

Watch our segment with KSL's Studio 5 for more on these trends from our Founder and Design Principal, Jessica Bennett:

We want to know...

We get requests for an online store almost daily, and while your pleas have gone unanswered they most certainly has not gone unheard! We're thrilled to say that YES...an online store is finally in the works! But before you can shop to your hearts conent, we need to know...what do you want!? We pride ourselves in curating beautiful collections of home furnishings and decor, and our main goal moving online is to provide you with that same high-quality experience our customers have in store. We also want to make sure that we offer you the products you want! So, please take a few minutes of your time to complete this short survey that will help us better understand your needs {and wants!}. Then sit back and {anxiously} relax while we get to work! 

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/8PTWVZN

Happy Birthday Alice Lane - 7 Years!

Happy Birthday to us! Seven years ago our little home furnishings boutique was born and a magical journey began. To think that we now have two home furnishings stores in Salt Lake and Orem, and are working with design clients across the continent is incredible! In celebration of all things Alice Lane, we're offering 20% off your entire purchase, all day long. So come to Alice Lane Home Collection in Salt Lake or Wonderland by Alice Lane in Orem, UT and help us celebrate! Getting older has never felt so good.

Rules of Scale: Sofa Throw Pillows

Nothing will cheapen the look of your sofa more than a dinky set of under-scaled throw pillows. It's a common faux pas, but hopefully with a little help from us it will be a mistake you never make! The thing is...people like pillows. And while you might think you're packing in more comfort by using half a dozen small pillows, you're actually taking up valuable real-estate and making your sofa look smaller than it really is.

To make your sofa look softer, generous and more gracious, follow these 3 simple rules of thumb to achieve the right scale of pillows on your sofa:

1. Go big! Avoid using too many small pillows and instead use fewer larger pillows that will fill up the space but keep things from looking cluttered.

2. Layer larger pillows in the back. Using a 22" to 26" pillow will really help to fill in the gaps and add plenty of comfort. You might even catch us throwing in a Euro now and again!

3. Stack a smaller pillow in the front. When we say smaller, we really mean about 20" or larger. By stacking a smaller pillow in front of your large pillow you're also adding dimension on top of comfort. A perfect combination.

Items available at Alice Lane Home Collection: Tobacco Mohair Pillow 22x22 - $286 | Gray Tangdon Pillow 20x20 - $374

9 Different Ways to Lay Subway Tiles

No tile has passed through the centuries of interior design with as much admiration as that of the subway. Perhaps one of the reasons is how incredible versatile it is! Regardless of it's scale, a subway tile can be laid in array of patterns that fall on both ends of the design spectrum: modern or traditional. We're sharing 9 of our favorite ways to lay subway tiles that will leave your imagination running wild with possibilities!

1. Running Bond | 2. Herringbone | 3. Horizontal Subway | 4. Diagonal Subway | 5. Basket Weave | 6. Vertical Stack | 7. Horizontal Stack | 8. Vertical Subway | 9. Diagonal Herringbone

4 Tips For Layering Art

Before you whip out a hammer and nails and attempt to tackle the brain-crunching task of perfectly spacing and hanging a gallery art wall in your home, try the stress-free "lean & layer" look instead. Layering art is definitely nothing new, but it has most certainly found its way back into the spotlight. We love how layered art looks like an authentic collection of beautiful pieces curated over time.

Here are 4 tips on how to layer art for the best look:

1. Use a variety of sizes - Layer a variety of square, portrait, and landscape art in an array of sizes to keep things loose and organic. Avoid layering art of similar shape and size as this will only cover up the art behind.

2. Mix up the frames - Unless you're going for a super formal look, we suggest mixing up the color and style of frames. This help's to define each layer and makes each piece stand out from the rest.

3. Use complimenting art - Avoid using "sets" of art that are sold together and instead find unique pieces that compliment each other. This will give you that "collected" look, like you've hand picked each and every piece. Because you have!

4. Put in unexpected places - We love to layer art in unexpected places like on a mantle, in a bookshelf, or on a desk. Find that special place where you can view and admire your collection often!

Art available for purchase at Alice Lane Home Collection in SLC,  UT & Wonderland by Alice Lane in Orem, UT

The Perfect Fall Porch

Happy October friends! We love all the festivities that fall has to offer. One of our favorite ways to embrace the season is to spruce up the front porch! We're all about finding ways to decorate for the holidays without pulling out bins and bins of decor that haven't seen the sun in months. We've found that making these few simple changes to your front porch will make your home look festive, warm, and inviting.

1. Add A Wreath - A fall wreath can instantly change the mood of your front porch. Some of our favorite decorative wreaths are made from natural fall materials like feathers and leaves.

2. Seasonal Planters - We love to flank planters at each side of the front door and fill them plants that will last through the cold months. By simply changing out your bright spring blossoms to the rich earthy colors of fall, your home will suddenly feel up with the times.

3. Add A Rug - Ditch the old straw door mat and try adding a rug instead. You'll find that it makes your porch feel incredibly stylish. You can even try layering rugs together. We love this crochet rug layered with the black and white stripe! So festive.

4. Display The Seasons Harvest - Of course, no fall porch is complete without pumpkins! Try stacking pumpkins in an old crate or scatter them around your planters. They add the perfect punch of color and texture that simply screams fall!

Items available for purchase at Alice Lane Home & Wonderland by Alice Lane: 1. Round Feather Wreath - $52 | 2. Square Chelsea Cylinder - $172 | 3. Sanibel Rug - $344

Wonderland Pick: Kensington Wing Chair

Recently, a customer at our Wonderland by Alice Lane store in Orem, UT remarked how pleased she was to finally discover a store with beautiful furnishings that were so affordable. She even exclaimed, "Oh, I need to tell all my friends about this!" We, of course, love hearing comments like this because that's exactly what we hope to provide! When we re-branded our Orem store earlier this year our goal was to curate a whole new collection of affordable home furnishings that were more inclusive of everyone. That goal stands strong today as we continue to add beautiful pieces to our collection. The Kensington Marlow Wing Chair is no exception. With it's vintage modern lines and cool gray upholstery, this chair is a fresh take on the traditional wing back. It transitions well from style to style and is perfect for just about any space! Here we've styled it flanked next to the fireplace and softened up with a brown fur pillow. Doesn't it look so cozy for fall!

{Kensington Marlow Wing Chair - $650}

Come visit Wonderland by Alice Lane today for more affordable home furnishings and home decor. We know you'll find something to love!

How To Decorate With Animal Prints

We like to think we have a bit of a wild side, and every now and again you'll see us sneak a zebra or leopard print into one of our designs. Maybe you've been too timid to make the daring statement yourself, or maybe you're still scarred from the bad rep animal prints got in the 80's. Either way, we're here to show you how beautiful, luxurious, and fun animal prints can be in your home when done right!

The key when using animal prints is NOT overdoing it! Think of it as an outfit...maybe you incorporate a snake skin purse, or some spotted heels for a subtle touch. The second you start layering prints you've gone too far! Here are some great ways you can pull off animal prints in your decor:

1.  Use On Pillows & Throws - If you're a little timid to try it out, ease into it by adding a pillow or throw in a neutral tone. Most likely you'll find that it's really all your space needed to get that edgy feel.

2. Tone On Tone - This is by far one of favorite ways to incorporate animal prints into a space. By choosing an animal print that is muted and watered down it really becomes more of a neutral! Especially if you have other prints and patterns in your space, a muted animal print won't compete and overwhelm. You can easily mix in a tone on tone animal print with anything.

3. Take It To The Ground - A large scale animal print rug is a great way to give your room an organic feel. Try using a hair on hide rug to keep things looking natural and not too contrived. We recently added a muted leopard print carpet as a stair runner, which was a great way to make a statement in a place where it wouldn't compete with other furnishings.

4. Scale Down Print On Upholstery - Using animal prints in your upholstery takes a little more commitment, but it works best when the print is scaled down. This makes the piece instantly recognizable, but keeps it from becoming overwhelming. We love incorporating prints as little surprises, like on the backs of chairs. 

Items available for purchase at Alice Lane:  Le Zebra Pillow - $338 | Lynx Cable Knit Throw - $218 | Hide Rug - $988 | Skylar Chair - $1,365

The Very Best Sale - Extended!

Good news friends! In fact...it's the best news. We're extending The Very Best Sale into October, simply because you're the best and you deserve the best. Now through October 17th, save 20% on all upholstery and casegoods at our Salt Lake home furnishings boutique, Alice Lane Home Collection. So come see us and ask one our stylists to help you pick the best sofa, coffee table, bed, console table, bookshelf, chair and more for your home.

Alice Lane Home Collection | Utah's Best Interior Design and Home Furnishings Boutique | Salt Lake City, UT