When I read stylist Emily Henderson was hosting a nightstand styling contest, I thought, Pffftt! A styled surface within toddler reach? Fahgettaboudit! But then I realized I just needed to get a photo of a styled nightstand; it didn’t have to reflect what we actually live with day-to-day…cause that would be this:
That’s clearly The Hubs’s side cause I don’t do digital alarm clocks. But it was free and I definitely do free :P In any case, going with my blog’s them of being brave, I accepted the challenge and tried to think of it as an exercise in styling.
I gathered up a bunch of my favorite items and started grouping them together and snapping away. T minus one hour to nap time! 
At first I was going for a yellow-grey-purple scheme for something that felt a bit springy.Then I tried introducing other colors. And creating more breathing space.
I made little tweaks swapping things in and out. 
And tried showcasing some neat ceramics I’ve collected.
I like how fresh this feels.
Ultimately, I ended up gravitating towards things already in my bedroom. Here was the vignette I felt was the most successful. If you feel so inclined to vote, hop over to Emily Henderson’s Facebook contest page to vote for my “Elegant & Simple Nightstand.” Thanks!
How are your styling skills? Any easy tricks to share?
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March 18, 2013 at 6:37 pm
Voted, and love it! I also have to let you know that RugsUSA is having a 50% off sale for St. Patty’s day! I’ve already purchased my rug (It’s finally in stock, yay!). I have YOU to thank for the great suggestion!
March 18, 2013 at 10:18 pm
Thanks, Tiina!
Can’t wait to see your rug in your space : ] This will be my third attempt at buying my shag rug (they keep running out of stock and canceling my order) so I’m crossing my fingers!
March 12, 2013 at 9:14 am
Thanks for your vote! I myself wonder when (if ever) I’ll replace my good ole college staples. It’s just too easy to continue using them!
March 11, 2013 at 11:23 am
Looks great! I like all of your versions. However, like Lauren states, most ‘styled’ night stands are not realistic. I always wonder, “How am I supposed to style something with a baby monitor, a glass of water, a tissue box, and and (eerily similar) a clunky, old alarm clock from college?” After all, it is my home and I need my things to work for me to make my life easier. Having the unsightly, un-styled things makes my life more convenient.
That said, voting now!
March 12, 2013 at 9:13 am
Thanks for your vote, Christine! I think a styled surface could work by elevating everyday objects but it’s just not in the cards for us right now. I recently came into my room to find that Anak turned a nightstand on it’s side (they’re very light) and was using it as a stool to get onto our bed!
March 12, 2013 at 9:51 am
Ha! Kids are great, aren’t they? You are right. Just trying is better than not. I really do love your styled night stand the best.
March 11, 2013 at 12:08 am
This nightstand is definitely stylin’. I really love the orchid and the framed photo. Now I need you to come over here and style my nightstand. Bobbypins and hair ties scattered everywhere, a bowl of ice cream residue, and a dusty digital alarm clock (yes, still rockin’ the one from college).
You got my vote on the contest page!