🌱 Growing Plants Indoors:

How To Green Your Home’s Energy

*This is a follow-up on a recent post '4 Indoor Plants To Brighten Your World, Epecially For Those Winter Months.

🌿 From Hydroponics to Garden Towers — What You Might Discover

~Experience Indoor Garden Systems & finding balance through the seasons.~

Keeping plants happy indoors

I’ve always loved surrounding myself with greenery, but learning how to make it thrive inside took a bit of experimenting.

When it comes to growing plants indoors, moving from two seasons to four — and working with the natural light available — teaches patience, attention, and care. You start noticing how each plant responds differently to its environment, and you learn to adjust right along with them.

🌱 Starting From the Seed Up

When I started growing indoors, I noticed how much difference it makes to begin with good seeds. I love the Backyard Seed Kit — it’s a thoughtfully curated mix of non-GMO seeds that helps you grow everything from fresh herbs to hearty greens. It’s a simple way to reconnect with the rhythm of growing your own food, even in smaller spaces.

🌞 Finding Balance with Light

Many new growers find that supplemental light or 

compact indoor garden starters make indoor gardening possible through the darker months.

These small setups allow greens to flourish through the winter months —  growing herbs and small veggies year-round, on countertops, shelves, or in cozy corners that wouldn’t support plants on their own.

🌿 What Survived the Seasonal Shift

Some plants adjust beautifully indoors. Such as resilient, oxygen-purifying plants like english ivy, snake plant, golden pothos, ferns, and even aloe vera.

They bring life to the room, improve air quality, and stay green, keeping their rhythm through the darker months.

♻️ The Missing Piece: Compost & Connection

Hydroponics offer steady growth during low-light seasons — but soil brings something different: the natural cycle of composting brings a mineral rich feel and taste.

The natural connection of soil — that earthy scent (mineral rich), and the cycle of renewal that comes with composting fills in where the hydroponic leaves off. 

Combining methods can give you the best of both worlds. Each system offers something the other couldn’t.

🌿 Learning As You Grow

If you’re new to plant care, having a simple guide that makes sense of it all goes a long way — from soil prep to seed starting. The Seed Growing Guide is an easy reference that simplifies what each plant needs, whether you’re planting in a pot, tower, or backyard patch. It’s like having a little growing coach beside you as you experiment and learn.

🌱 Meet the Garden Tower — Grow More in Small Spaces

The Garden Tower 2™ Move and Grow Bundle — a vertical gardening and composting system that bridges the gap between seasons and setups.

What drew me in was how It allows you to:

🌿 Grow up to 50 plants in 4 sq ft

🌿 Compost kitchen scraps into fresh soil

🌿 Roll it indoors or outdoors by season

🌿 Reduce waste + increase harvest in any home size. 

It’s a happy middle ground — combining the ease of hydroponics with the grounding benefits of soil. It helps grow more, waste less, and stay connected to the natural rhythm of things, no matter the season.

🌱 The Journey Continues

Indoor gardening has turned into more than a hobby for me — it’s a slow, steady reminder to care, nurture, and grow through every season.

Whether you’re just starting out or expanding your setup, finding the balance between light, water, and soil makes all the difference.

Final thoughts🌿

• Grow your health & nourish your home.

~ Having something edible year round, where you are a part of the growth and production is nourishing, fulfilling and it's an investment in your health.

Every sprout and bloom adds fresh, living energy that transforms your home into a vibrant and calming sanctuary. 

• From seed to savings.

~ After a few harvest cycles, many find their setup pays for itself. Enjoying fresh herbs and flavorful greens and flowers — an endlessly rewarding and satisfying feeling as you bring a bit of the outdoors back inside.

👉 Explore the system here.

 

•Bringing the garden indoors doesn't mean growth has to stop when seasons change — it just adapts. With the right tools and a little attention, your home can become a year-round sanctuary filled with fresh air, beauty, and life.

Have fun, experiment, and enjoy your little indoor oasis. 🌸

Looking for more? Check out

 4 Indoor Plants To Brighten Your World, Especially For Those Winter Months

🌿🌸

Test

The Charmed Studio: For Creative Artists & Writers

Are you an artist or creative entrepreneur? Wondering how to make your dreams a reality, but the thought of creating an outline or a spreadsheet makes you want to clean out the garage, or pull your hair out and run for the hills?

 

Me too!

Recently Beech Designs had a chance to meet up with The Charmed Studio. An online sanctuary where artists & writers can find encouragement, inspiration & rejuvenation. Created by journalist, artist, and writing coach Thea Fiore Bloom, PhD.

 

So delighted and relieved to find The Charmed Studio …so much so I had to make a post about it. Truly a haven for artists and writers.

(Note: Reasons prompting this post. In short- First, the algorithm rates the human being lower and lower on the almighty AI totem poll. It's more important now than ever, we as artists need to support each other where we can.

Second, because we as human beings came here to live from the heart, and love is being creative. 

From my experience and insight it is a limited academic experience called art. So many artists/inventors have chosen to never create or invent again because of their experiences from an academic art setting. 

After recovery may the love of art, and the will to create awaken within you again.

What do you need a degree for? Are you an artist or not?

For those that seek answers, have gone through the gauntlet, and survived, here's some insight. 

Charmed Studio offers sound advice of the afterlife 😆

Honor your abilities.  Do the thing! And your chances are far better than what the tiny fractional slice of opportunity the institutionalized educational system offers. So without further delay, let's dive in!)

You’re Not Alone

As heart centered artists, I think it's important to honor creativity while nourishing and being true to our soul. If we’re not good at making money within the profession, shift perspective. Our skill set is art making.

Supporting ourselves physically can help creativity thrive—sometimes I’ll sip a soothing cup of Golden Milk or take a few Clean Chlorella Tablets to stay energized and clear while creating.

In the art-world & academia, we’re not taught the business aspects, to make sure our art thrive.  This type of education/training is not provided.

 

When creating art is priority, and not marketing, how do we produce results without becoming robots?

I think, no matter where you're at, as an artist, it can be overwhelming to know how to navigate, build & be successful.

And coming from industry/ of institutional settings the general business/marketing model leaves so many of us creatives let down, uninspired, and drained.

This method isn’t for everyone, it has its place/its purpose. But our creative spheres wont fit into those square boxes.

When I start to feel boxed in, I’ll take a short walk, diffuse with a few drops of Organic Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil, or listen to a calming playlist — little rituals that bring me back to flow.

When that valuable time & energy is used to do what we love, Creating art! Offering our unique contributions for the world to experience & enjoy while making a successful living at it.

We want to make sure our businesses can thrive. And build things that are profitable, successful, sustainable, and authentic. So that we can live lifestyles we want to live.

If you’re building your own creative biz, I’ve found keeping a simple artist planner or goal journal nearby helps turn dreamy ideas into doable steps.
 
But stepping out on one's own, outside of the sanctioned system, the supportive navigational substance has been like an unsolved mystery. 

 

 

A Creative Nook In The Universe

I found the Charmed Studio to be a beacon for artists. There you'll discover a spectrum of resourceful coverage while offering insights and inspiration.

 

Thea says, "I noticed making a full-time career out of writing and art made me, and many professional creatives I’ve interviewed, feel like chicken cutlets; with the purpose pounded right out of us. Meanwhile, my artist and writer friends with day jobs beat themselves up, mistakenly feeling like their weekend art-making wasn’t legit.

 I figure artists of every level need a restorative place within to honor, nature, & house the sacred creativity that originally got us up to join the dance of art. I referred to that inner place as The Charmed Studio."

                    

Are you a creative interested in writing and art?

If you are looking to

Write better,

Feel better,

Or
Looking for help with
Meaningful marketing.
But, only if you get to be yourself.

Then take a tour of The Charmed Studio and experience the refreshing & compassionate vibe Thea brings with layered intuitive, creative, and professional experiences that holds and reinforces that space for heart-centered artists and writers.

(I love reading her posts with a mug of organic herbal tea — it’s like learning and self-care in one moment.)

Explore an empowering Charmed Studio journey. With blog topics like, 'The 9 Mistakes Children’s Book Authors Make and How To Avoid Them,' for writers.

Check out 

Tips from Famous Artists 

Inspirational artists like 'Why Is Frida Kahlo So Famous? What You Never Get to Hear About Her and How She Can Make Your Art Life Bloom.'

Or refreshing Business approaches, like 'Bye-Bye Facebook: How To Thrive as a Creative Without Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter'.

She provides audio format for her blog posts, so you can enjoy while walking or driving. (..Oh yeah!)

 

Trail blazer Thea Fiore Bloom, has been Awarded in the top 10% of 'Best Visual Arts Podcast' by Listennotes. 

 

Additionally, Thea offers individual sessions, helping realign and strength one's creative center vision & mission, unique to each creative entrepreneur.

(If you like complementing your creative coaching with natural focus support, lion’s mane or maca root blends can gently boost clarity while brainstorming.)

Are you interested in becoming a successful artist and/or writer without selling your soul and becoming a robot?

Check out the The Charmed Studio.🎙️

For more ideas and informative ways to succeed as a creative check out

DIY Business Tags & Cards, Part 1

 

 

 

Beech Vibes In NYC

 

What an amazing experience!

Beech Designs is featured in Beauty News NYC, the first digital beauty magazine celebrating beauty, lifestyle, fashion, and creative voices.

The feature highlights a selection of handmade Beech Designs jewelry, paired with an uplifting message of support for women and encouragement for creatives to keep following their vision.

Alongside the jewelry, you’ll also find a small curation of Beech Designs apparel — pieces created with the same intention: thoughtful design, comfort, and quiet confidence.

It’s an honor to be included among such inspiring stories and makers.

You can read the full feature here.

✨ Coastal Picks from Beech Designs

That moment inspired me to share a coastal-inspired curation of artist-designed pieces from Beech Designs ~  where original artwork meets wearable inspired style.

Scallop Shells High-Waisted Bikini — 

Dreamy and beach-ready with gentle shell motifs. Made for saltwater days, rooftop lounging, or simply inviting a little seaside calm into your wardrobe.

Barrier Island Dress — Shells Design — 

A favorite for its bold, coastal pattern and flattering silhouette. Easy for art-market strolls, sunset moments, or relaxed evenings out.

Arch Weekender Bag — 

Your take-anywhere carryall. Versatile, lightweight, and made for spontaneous getaways, beach trips, or creative days on the go.

Stripes One-Piece —

Timeless and effortless. A classic you can wear poolside, traveling, or layered with your favorite cover-up.

Keepn’ It Reel Vintage Fisher’s Dad Cap — 

Laid-back, comfy, and full of character. It brings that “effortless coastal” feel to any outfit.

Supporting handmade means supporting creativity, small-batch artistry, and meaningful design — all things I stand for.

Thank you again to Beauty News NYC for the feature, and thank you for exploring the collection. I hope you find a piece that gives you that warm “Beech vibe.”

If you enjoyed this feature, you may also like exploring other coastal stories, creative reflections, and curated collections throughout the blog.

Origami Crane Earrings: Grace Through Posture

 

Paper Art Comes to Life. 

Art speaks. And today we get vibed by the Origami Crane.

*If you're an Origami lover and would like to read more? Check out the post 'Origami Jewelry & The Art of Folding Paper'.

(°In that post we share the history, symbolism, and the transformative possibilities; where once a flat 2D piece of paper becomes a 3D sculptural form.)

A Spirit Within the Material

In this post, we cover the four styles Beech Designs carries of the Origami Crane Earrings. And the messages within the creative journey. 

The creation of this art form, the folding, the process, builds a layering to the resonense of its meaning.

All of the Origami Crane Earrings are named after the moon. Each color representing that type of Moon. 

Each pair carries or holds a fresh water pearl (the moon).🌝

For instance, there's the Green Corn Moon, the Blue Moon, the Pink Moon, and so on. More will be incorporated with progression.

Created in the traditional classical style.

Each pair is also one of four styles Beech Designs offers. Those are the

1~ Fly Straight 

2~ Profile/Wing Stretch 

3~ Straight Up

4~ Mid Flight

Fly Straight 

Straight Ahead 

The inspiration for the first Origami Crane Earrings are created of a classical design style that has been admired for centuries.

Made with one inch paper, Czech glass seed beads, and fresh water pearls.

With a focused intent in every fold, as the artist honors the process, each and every piece comes to life and holds character.

Profile Wing Stretch 🪽 

Rested Yogi

Over time the inspiration for the first Origami Crane Earrings began to share its possibilities.

The Crane in this rested posture, raises one wing stretching, straight up. As if to show, even in a rested state, its agility.

Straight Up 

High Rise 

In this third posture of Origami Crane Earrings, both wings are raised straight up. 

Gaining new heights. With the message, to reach for your dreams and manifest. 

Mid Flight 

Fly Free

Origami Crane posture #4 Earrings, 

As if in mid flight, with wings at a slight angle.

Sharing ...

With much to see, 

And ways to take, 

But only one way to be...

True to self. 

It is then, one soars, it is then one flies free.

𓅥 Are you an Origami fan? If so, what's your favorite?

Want to read more: check out post 'Origami Jewelry & The Art of Folding Paper'

Origami Jewelry & The Art of Folding Paper

Origami 

Origami is a method of folding paper into intricate designs and shapes.

An ancient art representing transformation and awareness.

Each fold is a reminder, of beauty in simplicity and the inner strength to triumph over challenges/ setbacks.

The crane is a symbol, known to represent peace, love, healing & good fortune.

Origami lovers may now enjoy the beloved animal totem as jewelry at Beech Designs.

Here's a further look into the art of folding paper!

 

Origami Origins 

Origami, is a Japanese word, meaning to "fold" (ori) "paper" (gami or kami). This art form, originally used for decorative and ceremonial purposes, today is enjoyed around the world.

Turns out, the act of folding Paper into works of art has been in practice for so long, much of the history of this art is a bit hazy whether it began in Japan or China.

It wasn't until the year 610 paper making made its was to Japan. 

Research shows, in Japan, the art of origami had been in practice well before paper was invented in China, the year 105 A.D.

Both cloth and leather were other highly probable materials used in the process of this art method.

The origins of origami carry symbolic messages and reflect elements of the natural world. Such as plants and animals.

The Crane's existence; ie appearance, behavior, and the myths surrounding it, all contribute to its symbolism. This heavenly creature's image represents hope, peace, good luck, longevity, fidelity, happiness, strength/resilience, to the promise of successful accomplishments.

The  Material

The paper both fragile and strong, is traditionally honored, with each fold, transforming the material into art. Where once a flat 2d piece of paper changes into a 3D sculptural form. 

The form-manifest, is imbued with an energy focus of the now, honoring its symbolic qualities.     

Into Jewelry

Creating these mini paper art sculptures, as jewelry adornments, was of interest for Beech Designs. 

Truly wearable art.... That's light as a feather 🤭 🪶 

The origami crane continues to inspire and influence handmade creations with Beech Designs.

And new variations are always on the horizon 😉

Discover online and in select local areas.

Read on --> Origami Crane Earrings: Grace Through Posture

4 Easy Indoor Plants to Brighten Your World & Winter + A Hidden Garden Gem in Florida

From the Garden 

To new beginnings moving forward.🥂

A post inspired after we made our way to Kentucky from Florida. Having to move our outdoor garden indoors, starting from scratch.

After arriving, the season was turning to the cold months. 

During this shift I am reminded of the garden we created. An enchanted oasis- that was the backdrop to The Studio.

From the Garden II

Arriving to Kentucky 

Arriving in Kentucky, the winter storm blew through, and with it the reminder —this is the time to step back and reflect.

During these times of change and adjusting, thankful to friends who have been supportive in various ways.

One of them being, gifts of greenery to start a garden anew. 

Some folks gifted cuttings and other potted plants that have begun the emergence of a new backdrop to the working atmosphere of an indoor garden, ...aka soon to be jungle studio. 

Four Must Have Plants 

Uplifted and inspired by these new garden delights, here is a list of four must have plants that will change your world.

Amaryllis

First up, the Amaryllis. Ok, well the first on the list is technically a flower, but the timing and beauty of it made it impossible to leave out. 

 

I've always known this as the Christmas or winter flower.... Since that's around the time of year I've seen it blooming. This is the Apple Blossom variety, and it’s just stunning.

In Greek, Amaryllis means to sparkle, and it’s no wonder. Its radiant color and vibrant, displays a perfect burst of life in the darker months. This flower symbolizes strength, beauty, pride, and love — which sounds like a good ally for a flower that opens up in the winter months.

I love when Amaryllis bulbs arrive in a basket. This delightful presentation shows up with no blooms at first… but as you water it, it slowly comes to life, revealing its majestic flower gem.

For something classic and elegant, the Amaryllis ‘Apple Blossom’ in a natural jute basket (around $49), is such a sweet choice — soft color and a welcoming presence. If you’re thinking bigger, two nursery pots in a woven basket (about $89), makes a fuller display that feels like a true winter centerpiece.

For something a little different for the darker months, when we’re spending more time indoors, White Flower Farm offers a variety of Amaryllis bulbs, with optional planter kits and basket presentations that let you tailor it to your space or gifting style. You can explore their current Amaryllis selections here.

Cherry Blossom Amaryllis 

No matter how you choose to present them, these bulbs are a cheerful surprise on cold days. White Flower Farms even shares tips for gifting Amaryllis (which I love), and if you plant in late September through early November, you’ll likely enjoy blooms throughout the winter. With a little care, depending on the bulb, some Amaryllis can even gift you two or three cycles of flowers per season — something lovely to look forward to year after year. 🤞

Aloe Vera 

Next up, Aloe Vera. You may have heard of it as the miracle — or magic — plant, and honestly, it’s earned that reputation.

It’s such a good one to have on hand, and a longtime favorite of mine because of how much it offers when it comes to health and wellness. 

Aloe Vera 

This succulent has a long list of amazing benefits, and in my own day-to-day life it’s used in many ways — from helping replenish electrolytes and supporting vitamin and mineral intake, to being my go-to for skin care. I’ve used fresh Aloe as a face wash, for burns and inflammation, and as part of my personal wellness routines, aiding digestion and overall vitality.

To me, it’s one of those plants whose value goes far beyond anything you’ll find in a bottle, which is why I love having the real deal on hand — growing as part of my natural defense garden-cabinet.😉 

Because Aloe is a succulent, it also pairs beautifully with other easygoing plants that thrive indoors, especially during the slower winter months. I love grouping it with trailing or sculptural succulents — they add texture without demanding much care. For those, I often browse Leaf & Clay’s hanging and trailing succulents, which are perfect for shelves, windows, or anywhere you want a little movement and life.

If you’re just starting out or want a simple way to build a small indoor collection, something like Leaf & Clay’s easy indoor succulents pack makes it feel approachable and low-stress — a nice complement to Aloe’s steady, supportive presence.

Aloe, requiring sunlight, thrives quietly in its space, offering gentle support with minimal fuss — and it pairs beautifully with other resilient, low-maintenance indoor plants, like the Snake Plant.

Mother-in-Law's Tongue/Snake Plant 

Mother-in-law's Tongue 

A plant that requires so little and give so much.

 

Extremely low maintenance and beloved for its ability to absorb negative energy (are you into feng shui?) Believed to bring good luck and positive energy flow. (Yes please)

Its superpower? Boosting indoor oxygen levels naturally. It’s highly effective at removing common pollutants, like mold and formaldehyde, helping improve indoor air quality. A must-have for any indoor garden.

Added bonuses, reduces allergies and boosts metal health... I guess the more oxygen the better you feel. 🫧

English Ivy  

Have you ever held a bunch of this beautiful vine & smelled it like a bouquet? It smells so freakn' fresh, ... the real outdoor fresh scent, naturally.

It's no wonder it has a rap for its air-purifying abilities, removing harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air, this graceful vine makes it a great choice for homes and offices, or any cozy corner that could use a little clean, natural energy.

Highly adaptable houseplant that requires minimal watering.

If you’d like to bring this fresh, fragrant greenery indoors, White Flower Farms carries English Ivy— a simple way to add both beauty and air-purifying benefits to your space

English Ivy 

Nature's Multitaskers 

All these plants can grow/live outdoors depending on the zone, but can be enjoyed indoors as well.

°True multitaskers

°Visually/creatively inviting/inspiring 

°Bringing natural vibrance & ambience 

°Filtering the air of toxins

°Provides oxygen and may help boost mental health

These plants are so easy to care for and very low maintenance. And when you care for plants, plants take care of you.

🪴 More plant inspiration is on the way! Our indoor garden journey continues with the hydroponic tower — a perfect solution for keeping greenery thriving during those in-between months when natural light is limited. 🌱

I’d love to hear from you: which plant brightens your space and lifts your mood?