Kitchen Reno: The Cabinets

Honestly, I think the pictures can explain it all, but I will go into detail the updates we made in separate posts starting today with the cabinets. When we bought this house last July, I had to really look beyond the out dated... well, everything and really just take into consideration the size, the lot and the houses' potential. With the kitchen being my least favorite, you can only imagine my excitement when we were finally able to start the BIG renovation for it this month!

                                                                BEFORE

First thing, we emptied the cabinets, removed the shelves, doors and hardware. We purchased Rustoleum's Refinishing Kit to paint the cabinets. With this particular product you do NOT have to sand, but the kit doesn't have enough for the insides so we did sand down the shelves.

Before painting could start, we used Step #1 of the kit, the Deglosser to strip the cabinets and clean them really good. Next, we purchased a Paint + Primer in one for the shelves, drawers, and the insides of the cabinets. Then used the Base Coat provided in the kit for coat #1. It suggested waiting 24 hours before reapplying the second coat. The product said you would only need 2 coats, but we needed 3. (Good thing our kitchen is small!)

Are you seeing my lovely floor? HAHA

 

The above two pictures are after 1 coat...

The final step in the kit is the sealer to protect the cabinets, help with easy cleaning and provides a bit of a shine! Clay installed new hinges, he wanted to do the European style so you can't see them from the outside. Then, we added new hardware knobs. Tada!

                                               After two coats and the glosser/sealer!

Next up? The new floors, fabulous new paint color, granite countertops, sink and faucet! Stay tuned.

Wedding Recap: Honeymoon

As described in my earlier post, we went to Playa Conchal Costa Rica for our honeymoon. We stayed at the all-inclusive Westin Resort and it was truly unbelievable. Saying we had a great time would be a terrible understatement.

Really from the second we got to the Westin I was beyond impressed. Our travel agent arranged for us to be picked up from the airport (yes, there was a guy waiting with a sign!) and as soon as we were dropped off at the resort, we were literally whisked away by a driver who took us to the "Royal Beach Clubhouse." As he took our bags to our suite, another employee brought us fresh mojitos and explained all the activities, restaurants and pools of the resort. Once we arrived to our room, we were introduced to David, who would be our own personal BUTLER for the week. We had told David one day we were there on our honeymoon and when we got back to the room that night for dinner, there was chocolate covered tuxedos strawberries and a bottle of champagne. How sweet? At this point, I am literally astounded, I've never been on a trip with this high quality service!

Next, we enjoyed 6 days of pure bliss! We drank, ate, lounged, ate, ate, drank then REPEAT all day every single day! What a fabulous way to wrap up the wedding festivities?! I strongly suggest this resort if you are planning a honeymoon, or any trip! A few pictures from the week:

Bye bye Costa Rica =(