admin, Author at HEART & HOME BY RP

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Planting Dreams: The Cottagecore Garden That’s Growing With Me

By admin On April 14, 2025 0 Comments

Hi friends,

Okay, I’m about to spill the dirt (literally) on a little project that has my heart fluttering—and my hands constantly covered in soil. You know I’m all about creating warm, thoughtful, beautiful spaces… and right now, my focus has shifted from the inside of our home to the heart of our outdoors.

Yes—the backyard transformation is officially underway!

It’s not “done” (what garden ever really is?), but it’s already filling me up with so much joy, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you. Because I’m not just planting flowers… I’m planting dreams.

A Touch of Cottagecore Magic (with Heart)

If you’ve been around for a while, you know I lean into beauty that feels soulful. I love spaces that tell stories. So of course, when I started dreaming up my backyard, I went full cottagecore. Think wildflowers, white picket fences, archways, vintage charm, and a little whimsy. The kind of space where you want to sip chai on a breezy evening or read a book with your pup curled up beside you.

And let me tell you about the arch. It’s not just any arch—it’s a handmade piece my dad built with love for my brother’s engagement. Now, I’m giving it a second life as the centerpiece of this backyard space. That’s the kind of full-circle joy that makes this project feel even more meaningful.

I’m also reusing so many things I already had around the house—old planters, leftover outdoor pillows, and even the base of a metal gazebo. It’s a little DIY, a little design magic, and a whole lot of intention. (Okay yes, I did go in on flowers and potting soil—but that’s where the beauty blooms!)

Also here’s a mood board for this project:

In Bloom (Slowly but Sweetly)

Here’s what I’ve planted so far:

Snapdragons, lavender, and roses (with fewer thorns, because: toddlers)
Herbs for chai and home cooking (because you know I had to)
Pet-friendly flowers so my fur babies can roam freely

I’ve been mixing statement pieces with budget finds from Home Depot and Lowe’s. (Expect a haul + product link post soon!) It’s not about buying all new—it’s about making what you already have feel new again with a fresh vision.

We’re adding stepping stones that lead to a white fence, and a small swing + slide set for the kiddos—because what’s a dream garden if my babies aren’t laughing in it?

This Garden is More Than Pretty

This isn’t just a cute backyard glow-up. This is part of something bigger. I’m building out Heart and Home by RP into a lifestyle—where beauty, creativity, and culture meet comfort and love. Where we reuse, repurpose, and restore. Where we gather around a cup of chai, laugh with our kids, and slow down long enough to feel home.

And let’s be real—it’s also about creating a space where I can breathe, create, and maybe one day host a cozy little garden party with all of you.

What’s Coming Next

A cozy little chai corner (yes please!)
Hanging lights and soft benches
Seasonal plant switches
A garden tea shoot for my shop and storytime boxes?

If you’re dreaming up a backyard glow-up or just want to create one soft, magical corner for yourself—start with what you have. Sprinkle in some wildflowers, a touch of intention, and a whole lot of heart.

Home isn’t just four walls. It’s where your roots, your memories, and your future all meet. I hope this garden becomes that for my family. And I hope it inspires you to plant a few dreams of your own. I will post pictures and updates on my next blog.

Until next bloom,

Rupal

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Plant Lady in Training: My Accidental Love for Gardening & Outdoor Glow-Up

By admin On April 1, 2025 0 Comments

There’s something magical about watching life grow from the earth, a feeling I hadn’t truly experienced until now. Lately, I’ve been drawn to the idea of nurturing something beautiful, something that brings both peace and purpose. So, I decided to take the plunge into planting, embracing this new chapter with open arms (and a few gardening gloves!).

I started with flowers—snapdragons, lavender, and even some less-thorny roses, carefully picking pet-friendly options to ensure my furry family members could safely enjoy our outdoor space. The vibrant blooms already add such a fresh burst of color, making my home feel even more inviting. Alongside the flowers, I couldn’t resist planting herbs for cooking and tea—rosemary, basil, mint, and chamomile. Just the thought of brewing fresh herbal tea from my own garden fills me with joy.

Since I’m new to this, I opted for a mix of garden beds and pots, experimenting with different spaces and sunlight exposure. The process of arranging them, getting my hands in the soil, and seeing the first signs of life has been so rewarding. It’s a grounding experience—one that connects me to nature in a way I hadn’t realized I needed.

Beyond the personal joy, I’ve noticed how much curb appeal this new addition has brought to my home. A well-maintained garden makes such a difference, enhancing the exterior with charm and character. Even a few thoughtfully placed potted plants on the porch or window sills can instantly uplift the overall aesthetic. If you’re new to gardening like me, here are a few simple yet effective decor tips to elevate your outdoor space:

Cozy Corners: Arrange a small seating area with outdoor-friendly cushions and a bistro table surrounded by greenery for a relaxing retreat.
Layered Heights: Use plant stands or hanging baskets to create visual interest and dimension.
Statement Planters: Opt for stylish pots that complement your home’s exterior—think earthy terracotta, sleek modern designs, or even hand-painted pots for a pop of color.
Lighting Magic: String lights or lanterns nestled among plants can add warmth and an inviting ambiance for evening relaxation.
Themed Green Spaces: Whether it’s a dedicated herb garden near the kitchen or a floral haven by the entrance, grouping similar plants together creates a cohesive and polished look.

Planting has quickly become more than just a hobby. It’s a reminder that growth takes time, care, and patience—much like life itself. As I water my little garden each morning, I feel a sense of calm, a quiet ritual that centers me before the chaos of the day begins.

This is just the beginning of my gardening journey, and I can’t wait to see how it evolves. For now, I’m celebrating the small victories—the first buds, the fragrant herbs, and the simple joy of creating something with my own hands. If you’ve ever thought about starting a garden, let this be your sign to dig in—literally! There’s so much beauty waiting to bloom.