Accessories act as the finishing touch to any project. They help bring in color, texture, and give rooms that "lived-in" feel.  I always suggest incorporating pieces that have meaning (treasured heirlooms, antiques or family photos), but if you're looking to introduce some fresh, new items, below are my recommended vendors for any budget...

1. Z-Gallerie: Z-Gallerie has a huge assortment of art and accessories. It is all beautiful and classic.  There is an extensive collection of "Art under $100." They have basics like silver candle holders and pieces that could be a focal point like artsy vases and sconces.

2. Global Views: Global Views offers an extensive line of unique accessories. They are not afraid of color or vibrant, worldly things. They also offer a sophisticated line from Barbara Barry. If you're looking for something like nothing else, try Global Views.

3. Arteriors: If you're looking for elegant and subdued, Arteriors is great. The textures and finishes are high end and for a good deal.

4. Ikea: Ikea is the place to go if you're on a major budget. Despite the super low prices, their accessories are pretty long-lasting, especially the artwork, which is the best deal they have. Many staple items like white frames or candle holders are inexpensive and are great if you're planning on buying in bulk.

5. Home Goods: Home Goods is bargain central. It is a huge mix of items and the floor is always changing, so if you see something  you think could work, grab it, because it probably won't be there tomorrow. They have framed art, furniture and worldly accessories from African Safari to Beach-inspired.

6. Pier 1 Imports: Pier 1 has many accessories and gifts. Everything is very colorful...

7. Uttermost: Uttermost has styles from very traditional to abstract. They use a lot of wood and metal to create inspirational, very down to earth pieces.

8. Roost: Roost carries many modern and eccentric accessories. Everything is hand-made and quality is ensured.

Ever since I started blogging, I've been wanting to do a "Favorite Things" blog as a way to share a glimpse of my personal style and the furnishings I love. With the holidays right around the corner, I thought now might be a fun time to show you some of my favorite pieces... a little "wish list" if you will :) The furnishings I've selected exemplify an "updated traditional" style, a cross between modern and traditional that I've come to love.

While researching pieces for this entry, I have to say that I got a little overexcited and couldn't manage to fit them all on here, so you can look forward to more "Favorite Things" entries to come. Next up, I plan to explore fabrics & wallcoverings, but take a look at my first favorite findings...enjoy!

Chairs: from Lee Furniture, these chairs feature earth-friendly upholstery in organic fabrics. I'm a huge fan of this company for the range of styles they carry and their ecological conscious through their construction and materials.

Stools: from Global Views and Wisteria, these occasional pieces are the perfect accent for a bedroom or living room. The upholstered stools provide extra, accessible seating while the drum stool offers a stylish resting spot for books or accessories.

Lamps: from Shades of Light, these lamps are a great way to instantly add personality to any room. Keep your lamp shades simple, then add a punch of color through ceramic bases or  texture through a metal-woven base.

Mirrors: from Ballard Designs and Contemporary Mirrors from West Elm, these mirrors are a fun way to fill your walls,  make a decorative statement, and reflect extra light into your space.

Vases: from Global Views these ceramic pieces work beautifully in a small groupings to provide accents for a kitchen or dining room. Placed along a buffet or displayed on shelves, these vases make for a beautiful collection.

Dishes/Bowls: from Global Views, these items are more great display pieces. The ceramic, magnolia plates and metallic dishes can be grouped hanging on a wall or placed on tables to hold colorful fruit or candies. Use the larger tourines and trophy bowls to house floral arrangements or seasonal items. All of these can be used interchangeably in many different rooms.