10 Essentials Sarah Baeumler Can’t Live Without in the Bahamas

As many of you know, our family has been spending most of our time in the Bahamas. We’re in the process of renovating a hotel as part of our new show Island of Bryan. The experience so far has been extraordinary (read all about our new adventure here!) with so many exciting moments and challenging encounters. The children are having a wonderful time too, and I’m sure they will never forget this period of their lives. However, there were a few things that I absolutely had to bring with me – those essential items that remind me of home and keep me focused. Here’s what I couldn’t leave Canada without.

Island of Bryan premieres Sunday, April 7 at 10PM on HGTV Canada.

Large bed covered with white cotton looking sheets and cover

Lauren Kolyn

1 / 10

White Cotton Bedding

White cotton bedding is something of an obsession of mine. It reminds me of home, and the material has such a simple, classic feel that instantly brings comfort to a room. Bedrooms are such personal, cozy spaces – so it’s important to fill your own with items and materials that make you feel restored and relaxed.

a corner of a desk with a white book shelf on one side

HGTV Canada

2 / 10

Desk Accessories

One of the first things I took from my office were my desk accessories. With all the natural beauty and gorgeous sunshine down here, it can be difficult to remember that there is work to be done. I thought it was important to replicate my workspace in Canada to ensure I stay focused. It worked!

bryanbaeumler.com

3 / 10

Favourite Family Photos

This is a must for most of us. Photos have such a visceral quality, that the memory from them can instantly give us a sense of belonging and comfort. I had to bring my favourites to the Bahamas, and I bring more every time I return home.

Aerial view of a candle in a mason jar, and two plants on a white marble circle

unsplash.com

4 / 10

Favourite Scented Candle

Smell is something that’s so important when it comes to feeling at home. Canada has a certain scent, and it changes every season. I have missed this more than I ever would have thought. A scented candle can’t replace a place’s natural aroma, but it does remind me of home and makes me feel warm and cozy again.

HGTV Canada

5 / 10

Sneakers

Even though sandals and flip flops are the choice footwear on a Caribbean island, I had to bring my sneakers, too! I love wearing sandals, but sometimes you want the security and protection that a shoe can give. I love wearing sneakers, so they took their spot in my luggage.

High angle view of two bathrobes on the bed

Getty Images

6 / 10

Turkish Robe

I’m in love with my Turkish bathrobe, and I now consider it an essential item. It’s so versatile, and I’ve found that it has even more uses when you’re living on the beach. The quality of the fabric is so amazing that it can hold up to anything, and the fact that it is both warm and light makes it ideal for this type of environment.

Modern and elegant bathroom with a tub and fireplace

HGTV Canada

7 / 10

Tile Samples

Before we began this process, I was fully aware that tile would play a large part in this huge renovation, so I had to bring leftover samples from our home. I love the tiles we have in our house, and although not all of them will feature in the hotel, I wanted them close at hand for inspiration.

Closeup pillows on bed, orange and gray color scheme

Getty Images

8 / 10

Peach Pillows

I have a set of peach-hued pillows (not pictured) in our living room that I adore. They instantly remind me of home and all the happy memories of being in that space, but I also brought them for inspiration. I love the pale orange shade, and it might even feature in part of the hotel’s design!

Two White Luggage mockup in empty room, Suitcase, baggage

Getty Images

9 / 10

Four-Wheel Carry On

This was actually a new item I bought for our adventure. It doesn’t have any sentimental value, but it has been the perfect piece for coming back and forth. It’s light, sturdy and spacious – perfect for short flights, and short vacations.

indiahicks.com

10 / 10

India Hicks “Island Style” Book

This amazing book has been my bible for the initial stages of design. It’s an inspiring read and has so much gorgeous imagery that instantly inspires me to work. I recommend it to anyone interested in design and travel!

This new adventure has had its rough patches, as many do, but the whole experience has been nothing short of life-changing. Embracing new cultures and exploring new terrains allows us to grow, but having these items close to me makes me enjoy the process all the more by reminding us of how we got here. Canada will always be home.