We’ve featured Chelsea Carpenter’s Southern Fried Paper invitation designs and retail line in D Home and D Weddings. Not only is she known for her amazing custom designs, we were wowed when she took us on a virtual tour of her new space. So, we know the girl’s got great taste. SMU graduate Chelsea most enjoys creating the unexpected. A recent project includes making table numbers out of snow globes. Okay, okay. I won’t make you wait any longer. Below are Chelsea’s Love Notes.

Read on for more.

1. High gloss black millwork: “Black lacquer moulding and doors are so dramatic, and draw attention to architectural details like doors and bookcases. I would paint every interior door black if I could.”

2.Back Alley Furniture: “I’m completely obsessed with their mix of bold color, pattern, and classic lines. The husband and wife team truly loves the craft and are known for their redesign of vintage furniture. (They also do custom work if you have a piece that needs some punch!) Their favorites are French Provincial and Victorian sofas and my all-time favorite: the Louis chair. And who can resist such flawless tufting?”

3. XL Ampersands (retro sign letters):  “I collect ampersands of all shapes and sizes. My favorite is a retro sign letter from Random in Hillside Village. It’s a fabulous sculptural piece which I plan to rewire so it glows like a true neon sign.”

4. Serena Floor Lamp from Stella Dallas: “I love pretty much everything from StellaDallas. From the first time I set foot in the store I’ve been in love with this lamp by Oly Studio. With its mirrored shade it looks more like an architectural piece or modern sculpture than a light source.”

5. Ascension Coffe on Oak Lawn: “Not only do they have artisan coffee in the morning and wine at night, the interior design is a feast for the senses. Their tables are made from reclaimed bowling alley wood and paired with bright red bentwood chairs.”