In our world with what we do, we are asked to review books here at The Handmade Home, quite a bit.
I don’t mean that in a self-important way. Trust me, we are anything but, and usually lean on the self deprecating side in the name of keeping it real. We are honored and totally thrilled to support anyone we can in this world of publication and all things design. I mean that in a sometimes-our-jobs-are-multifaceted-and-kinda-strange, way. And most definitely in a full disclosure kind of way.
We love what people are doing and truly admire them for it. We are in everyone’s corner and truly wish them the best. But really, it’s because in a very saturated world, we want you to see the very best and we reserve spaces on our site just for that. We also believe in being authentic with what we stand behind. And we believe in the people who truly inspire us.
Because the works and people that we share here, they truly spark a love for what we all do.
So when Courtney of French Country Cottage announced last year that she was writing a book, we held our breath with anticipation.
We were giddy with excitement for her, and couldn’t wait to see her beautiful creation.
And when we put our hands on her first copy this summer, we could literally see her heart and soul poured into one of the most incredibly gorgeous books we’d ever laid our eyes on. It’s a colorful book full of inspirational images, and the wonderful story behind Courtney and her family’s little cottage-that-could. She didn’t have to ask us to endorse her book, because we were basically foaming at the mouth to get our hands on our very own gorgeous copy.
Originally a vacation home with quirky bones, this is the story of how she slowly transformed it into the most beautiful house into a home. An amazing example of taking something and truly making it your own.
“Inspiration is that flip-flop in your stomach and the surge of excitement you feel when something moves you, that makes you want to pause and simply soak it all up and capture that feeling so you can feel it all over again” – Courtney Allison, French Country Cottage.
Congratulations Courtney, because this is how we feel when we put our hands on your book.
Each turn of the page feels like an escape. Her images are bright and gorgeous, and her words are nothing short of inspiring when it comes to being real and creating a home that you truly love.
One of the things we think that Courtney has done oh so beautifully, is merging the indoor/outdoor feel of her spaces, along with the timeless pieces she hand picks to create her amazing escapes. The home they found may have originally been a ‘quirky vacation home’… but I’d love to get lost there now, for a week or two myself.
Along with a ton of styling ideas and inspiration, as well as walking you through her process, she even includes an gorgeous celebrations section in her book- for any of you gearing up for the holidays. We say just in time.
Each page just feels like an experience, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for our amazingly authentic friend.
{Affiliate link below.}
So if you love French Country Cottage, and that wonderfully found, vintage style, be sure to check her out. And if you aren’t familiar with Courtney, now would be the time to check out her gorgeous book. You’ll get lost in it for hours… we promise.
Have an inspired day!
Jenna says
Amazing! I love this and can’t wait to check out the book!
Mae says
This looks stunning-What a beautiful book! Thank you for letting us know about it. It’s going on my Christmas list for sure. 😍
Ansley says
This book is beautiful!