Being the first inside impression of your home, the entryway is an important element for showcasing your home story and what’s to come. Our double-door entry opens up to a large space with walls on both sides before leading to the living area. The goal was to create a functional entry space with unique character on each of these two walls, while still allowing each wall to compliment the other. We opted for an entry table on one wall (see above photo), with a functional mirror and welcoming decor. We went for a modern farmhouse/French country look, adding lots of texture and complimenting neutrals. Here are my entry table must haves:

1. MIRRORS! I absolutely love having a mirror at the entry for last minute touch ups! The reflection also helps the space feel even more open. The key is to find a mirror that isn’t the exact shape of your table. Arched mirrors like the one above are a fantastic option for creating an eye-catching space. Round mirrors and sunburst mirrors are also a great choice, or ones with decorative frames. Go for a frame color that contrasts the entry table color, while still keeping enough coordination.

2. GREENERY and plant pots! Adding faux plants throughout any space is a perfect way to bring comfort and calm to your home. The entry is a great spot to start. If you have two entry walls, be sure to add greenery on both sides. My favorite faux greenery leaves are lamb’s ear, eucalyptus, and succulents. Pictured above is lamb’s ear stems mixed with pink and cream spray roses. The best part is, you can mix up the flowers depending on the season or holiday! I’m already envisioning swapping red flowers during Christmas, and orange during fall. Hobby Lobby, Michael’s, Amazon, and even Target have a good selection of faux plant stems. You will need wire cutters to trim the stems to size. When searching for the perfect pots and vases, look for texture and fun touches. I went with a galvanized pot with rope handles, and it adds the ideal touches to pull it all together.

3. CANDLES! Candles are a must-have for creating a warm and welcoming space, and intricate candle holders like the ones above are a great way to add extra texture and height. Hobby Lobby and Amazon have an awesome selection.

4. QUOTE SIGNS! Find a message that speaks to you. Since we live on a small farm with chickens and land, this little “Farm Sweet Farm” sign helps tell our story from the moment you walk in. Of course, go for whatever quote tickles your fancy. Some more of my favorite quote signs include, “home sweet home”, “welcome”, “stay awhile”, and similar. Honestly, Hobby Lobby has the best selection of these in all shapes and sizes. If you don’t have a store nearby, try their website. I actually have a few signs that I like to swap every now and then to mix it up.

5. PERSONAL TOUCHES! I fell in love with the wooden mushrooms on the table the moment I saw them. They make the space feel so earthy and fun, without being too serious.

6. HEIGHT! Always always always remember to add different heights to your table. Some tall, some short, some in between.

 

Next up, let’s discuss entry benches. Depending on your layout, you may have to choose between entry table versus entry bench. Look at pictures and envision both in the space to see what would work best for you. If you have a wider entry with two walls like me, you may want to fill the space with both. I used the bench pictured below, and I love how the different wood plank tones catch the eye. The hooks hung above are a functional as well(see more detail below). I added pillows to the bench to make it extra cozy, and some extra greenery and decor above the hooks. Here are my must-have elements for decorating an entry bench:

1. FUNCTIONAL BENCH! Choose a bench that will allow function and create visual appeal. The bench we have opens on the top for storage. As you know, you can never have enough extra storage space! I love the different colored planks on this bench. Some bench varieties add function with shoe storage cubbies, wire or fabric baskets underneath, or different forms of storage. Adding creamy pillows help bring comfort to the space. We opted for neutral pillows since the shiplap walls are colored light blue (though the blue is kind of hard to see in these pictures.

2. AGAIN, DON’T FORGET THE GREENERY! I absolutely adore this faux agave plant I found, as it adds height and balanced the space. The raised planter it sits in is super appealing as well. Greenery above the hooks helps bring the eye up too and add some more natural fun to the look.

3. DECOR AND QUOTES AGAIN! Keep telling your home story. Here, we used a “Farm Fresh” chicken sign since we have egg-laying hens in the backyard. Gotta give them some credit! It’s important not to over-clutter the decor as well. One or two simple pieces with lots of meaning and texture can go a long way.

4. HOOKS ARE YOUR FRIEND! Once again, for the sake of function, consider wall hooks. I love that this piece above the bench acts as a hook rack, shelf, and picture holder all in one. Though I’m sure you’ve noticed, I still need to decide which pictures to put in it! This hook rack is made of reclaimed wood in a grey tone. The tone compliments the rest of the space, while still adding enough contrast to make is visually appealing.

Most of all, have fun with it! Decorating is an exciting way to showcase your story and personal expression. Please feel free to comment with ideas or questions below!