Hello, friends! My family and I spent the past week in Copenhagen for the kids’ spring break. If you haven’t visited, I highly recommend it. It was one of those unexpected destinations that pleasantly surprised me. While it was on my travel list, it wasn’t at the top, but I would go back in a heartbeat.
The pastries (obviously), the vibrant colors, the picturesque canals, and the architecture (which I’ll write more about later) were all captivating. I may have started looking for jobs abroad upon my return.
Also, why Copenhagen? Because…
Since my husband and I started dating back in 2013, we’ve made it a top priority to explore a new destination every year. And I’m delighted to share that we’ve successfully achieved this goal! In our opinion, experiences hold far greater value than material possessions; something we’ve tried to instill in the kids as well.
When we weighed the options, Europe emerged as the significantly more affordable choice compared to flights (and accommodations) in Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Arizona, and Florida. Given my budget-conscious nature, we couldn’t resist booking it!
Now that we’re back, the vacation blues have hit me hard, along with the jet lag. And while I’m trying my best to avoid the news, I’m failing miserably. So, the obvious thing to do is talk about toilet paper holders instead.
Back in 2024, I completed a no-demo reno on our power bath for less than $2,000. And yes, I wrote all about it in the article below.
I wanted the bathroom hardware to match the existing chrome faucet, so I opted to purchase this towel ring holder and toilet paper holder, both in the chrome finish, from West Elm. While I appreciate their modern profile, I now have a toilet paper holder that looks like a sad, wilted branch.
Also, riddle me this: how is it possible that we have self-driving cars, yet we still struggle to manufacture a single-arm TP holder that remains horizontal? I understand that I could use physics to my advantage by installing it vertically, but I’m still worried about the slight wobble effect it might cause.
To my clients, I promise to never, ever, spec a single-arm TP holder again UNLESS it has an exposed mounting plate. To myself, I’m making that promise as well.
If you’re ready to break up with the sag, I’ve hunted down some alternatives for you, and for me. All appear to either have fantastic reviews and/or are quality-made.
Wall-Mounted TP Holder — Very budget-friendly ($26!) and multiple finishes available.
Curvature TP Holder — So unique, which I love. Also available in brass!
Align Wall-Mounted TP Holder — With 4.8 stars and almost 2,000 reviews, the people have spoken.
Scalloped Feather Peacock TP Holder — She’s a beaut, Clark. And she makes a fun statement.
Minimalist TP Holder — Affordable ($22) and pretty! Available in brushed brass or matte black, and it also has a matching towel bar.
TP Stand in Black & Marble — If this one looks familiar, it’s because I personally own it. I even had my dad purchase it, too! Other finishes are available, and it’s currently on sale.
West Slope TP Holder — From Rejuvenation, a fave retailer of mine, albeit their offerings aren’t cheap. Shown is the Brushed Nickel, which is currently on sale.
Leather TP Holder — Etsy for the win! Plus, you can customize the leather color and the dowel finish.
Riley TP Holder — A pivoting arm available in six different finishes.
Dora Shelf TP Holder — Every man needs this. It’s a TP holder with a VIP parking spot for their cell phone.
Boule Wall-Mounted TP Holder — A nod to classic French design. Also available in polished nickel and black.
Wall Mount TP Holder — Etsy for the win, again. Honestly, I need to source from Etsy more!
Acrylic TP Storage Tower — Storage and function, all in one. Sign me up.
Tissue Roll Holder — How freaking cute is this? Would be perfect for a kid’s bathroom. Multiple colors available, but honestly, it’s the brass ball for me.
Once again, that’s all she wrote, my friends. But before you leave, I have one small plea…
While I know I’m not a “writer” or necessarily eloquent, I genuinely hope you find these posts helpful. And more importantly, I sincerely hope they save you time! With that, I would:
Greatly appreciate it if you could share this post (or publication) with a friend.
I would also be thrilled if you would consider joining the paid design community, where, beginning this month (and every month), I’ll be doing an “ask me anything” for design community members only. As someone once said, it’s like having a designer on speed dial.
In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones.
Cheers! — Alyssa
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