Designed to Last: Our Journey of Building an Intentional Home, Growing in Faith, and Finding Joy in the In-Between

by Ashley Petrone, Dino Petrone, September Vaudrey (With)

NATIONAL BESTSELLER!

“Ashley and Dino bring light and hope for relationships in this beautiful book. Explore Designed to Last with open eyes and an open heart, and discover how to find joy in the in-between.” ―Liz Marie Galvan, bestselling author of Cozy White Cottage and LizMarieBlog

Design a life intentionally. Grow faithfully. Create something beautiful that will last!
Over half a million readers have joined the journey of Instagram sensations Ashley and Dino Petrone. Through their popular online community Arrows and Bow, Ashley and Dino share their adventures, mishaps, and joys of building a life together using an unexpected design. Now, in their much-anticipated debut book , Ashley and Dino invite readers into their home and relationship through their trademark honest and hilarious storytelling. They share both never-before-revealed and fan-favorite stories, including Ashley and Dino are the first to say they don’t have all the answers, but they welcome you to join them as they share the struggles and successes that come from intentionally staying committed to God and each other. Because when you build with faith, creativity, and love as the foundation . . . you build something designed to last. Includes exclusive photos and bonus DIY decorating tips!

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Audiobook, Autobiography, Family, Marriage

304 pages, Hardcover

Published April 5, 2022

Reviews

[Charise Proctor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of Designed to Last and am was so thrilled that I did. I had been waiting for the release of this book and it did not disappoint. The book is a beautiful combination of love, marriage, relationships (with your spouse, with your children, your friends, your family and God) and some design tips along the way. I loved hearing the perspective of both Ashley and Dino as they navigated the twists and turns of life and marriage together and separate. Ashley and Dino both share their story from their hearts with a vulnerability and grace that offers encouragement to their readers to grow in faith and ultimately grow individualy and in their marriage. Sprinkled in their story of ups and downs you also get some great tidbits of design tips from Ashley who is quite skilled in that department as well. This book is a quick read and such a treat.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Christian memoirs/devotionals like this one, with pictures. This was very inspiring to read. Loved it.

[Liv · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have the pleasure of getting access to a pre release copy & let me tell you… Ashley & Dino put it all on the table & are so down to earth in their writing style just as they are in any other content I have seen from them! This book is perfect for someone who needs design pointers, insights into marriage (especially if you are a person of faith), and on how to know our worth and find joy in areas of our lives through the lens of our creator instead of through the lenses that society has put onto us!

[Kylie Skaar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. 5 stars across the board. I loved loved loved this book. For me, creating an intentional home and not overstuffing it is a fine line and she talks about this and how to navigate.
I rolled over to Ben multiple times saying “we should buy a tiny home!” Or “babe I think it’s time we go through our things again!” This book sparked something deep in my soul that I think God is gonna use for His glory. And for that, I’m thankful.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy and I am beyond grateful I did!! This book was hard to put down. I’ve followed the journey of this amazing couple over the past few years, but reading this book really was truly a gift to read the triumphs they have overcome. Loved that you hear both sides and also the design throughout as well. Don’t want to give any spoilers so I will just end on the fact that you should buy and read this book!

[Nikki Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never thought that a design book could make me laugh and cry while giving me so many nuggets about life and design. Ashley and Dino are hilarious! While reading this book I felt like I could relate on so many levels. I respect so much how Ashley and Dino seem to find God in every situation. I highly recommend this book to anyone but especially married couples. I even got my husband to read along with me.

[Megan Kuster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not something I would naturally pick up, but a friend gave it to me and wow! Very thought-provoking on how I want to be intentional with my future family. I loved the way it was written!

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have followed along with Ashley & Dino’s story over the past several years on Instagram @arrowsandbow & have always been so encouraged by the way they live their lives. I had high hopes for Designed to Last & I wasn’t disappointed!

This book was the perfect blend of inspiration, encouragement, and challenge - all while being an easy read. I look forward to continuing to implement both the design and marriage tips that were shared throughout this book. And let’s not forget to mention how excited I am to keep this beautiful book on my coffee table! 100% recommend!

[Christen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book, and it has been exciting. I love that the book is on both of Ashley and Dinos points of view/words. I have followed them on IG for awhile now and reading this book is like watching them in stories, its them and you can picture what they are saying and that is awesome. I also absolutely love the fact that I can see my relationship with my husband and our whirlwind romance in Ashley and Dino's story. Oh and one more thing. Not only is the book wonderful and you need to follow them on IG,but I also did their Plan on the Bible App! Thank you Ashley and Dino for being you with design and all the pretty things but lovibg God and not being ashamed to show it!!!

[Felicia Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was blessed to be a part of the launch team for this book. I received an advance copy and wow was I glad!! I found joy every time I picked the book up to read it! I literally found myself smiling after reading pages upon pages. I probably looked goofy but couldn’t help it. Dino and Ashely are real with their stories and intentional with their words. I love that they give God glory along the way. For anyone married or looking to get married this book is one hundred percent a great read. For anyone who enjoys designing, it’s an excellent source. Simply the way Ashley weaves it into this book is top notch.

[Shelby Goodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listened to the audio book and absolutely loved hearing the raw and real emotions of both Ashely and Dino reading their own words. A beautiful and encouraging story of their journey in learning to trust God to guide their lives and marriage. I loved how Ashley added practical design tips at the end of each chapter that pertained to what they had talked about in that chapter. You’ll walk away feeling inspired and encouraged.

[Kaelee Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a perfect book for parents of all kind! Funny, hopeful and great advice on how to be a better wife and a momma! I am a mom of teenagers and I find so much value in Ashley and Dino's advice for my marriage specifically. We are a happy home with a great relationship but we can always do better. The upward spiral is a real hands on tool to make a good marriage GREAT! Of corse, I love what they say about parenting and marriage but oh my gosh . . . every thing that Ashley does to her home is also incredibly inspiring! If you could look around my house you would see how her style has sparked in all corners! READ this book and then follow them on IG because they are real people who bring joy to others! I am excited to flip through the pages AGAIN and AGAIN!!

[Bethany Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those I started and can’t put it down books! I got an advanced copy and I’m so glad I did, I’m relating so much of Ashley’s journey with design to my own struggles with understanding my love for beauty and she says it so well in my very favorite of her quotes, “I started seeing my creativity as a God given outlet and beautiful gift rather than a curse that led to discontentment.” Their story is so real and relatable, it has given me personally so much encouragement to pursue my own journey.

[Aimee Wiese · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have followed Ashley on Instagram for awhile now. Initially it was for her design information, but I have grown to love hearing about her family and faith even more. I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of Designed to Last. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it and getting perspectives from both Ashley and her husband Dino. Whether a newlywed or married for 15 years like myself there is wonderful guidance for any marriage.

[Alicia Swendler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance copy of this book and loved this easy and enjoyable read that is also a super cute coffee table book because it’s got pictures and design tips too! It’s an authentic account of two perfectly imperfect people navigating life, love, and design. Walk with Dino & Ashley as they share the highs, lows, and everything in between.

[Paul Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was blessed to receive an advanced copy of the book and enjoyed listening to the audiobook option provided. Listening to the book read by Ashley and Dino really drew me into their story. I have always appreciated their transparency as influencers, but can appreciate them even more after hearing the complete story of the intersection of their relationship, faith and design journeys!

[Hannah Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you get a chance to listen to the audiobook do it! I loved hearing Dino and Ashley share their story in their own voices. This was a fun and insightful read about a love story, the trials and triumphs of marriage, raising a family, home design and DIY, loving God, and not being afraid to take that leap of faith! One of my very favorite “influencers”! 😀

[Dani Stroda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book far exceeded my expectations - which were high! Dino and Ashley are funny, vulnerable and wise on so many topics included in this book. It’s a book about marriage, design, relationship, parenting, and a devotional… all wrapped into one. Highly recommend this book!

[McKenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd give this book easily 4.5 stars.

I picked it up after seeing Ashley (the author) post something about it on her @arroesandbow IG account. I assumed it was a design book. I love her style and following her family's journey on IG, and I love looking through home decor books (especially from people whose style I know I love. I was surprised to realize that although there are design tips and some photos, this book is actually a story of Ashley & Dino's love, family, and adventures.

I intended to just return it but figured I'd check out the first chapter and I was immediately hooked. I love the way both Ashley & Dino tell their story. I love how inspiring their story is, both in their love story and their design ideas. There is so much honesty in every page.

I feel like I should read this book every year to remind me to be intentional in my marriage & relationships, my parenting, my purchasing and every aspect in between.

I seriously gave so many things in my home a once over about half way through this book. I had so many little things I didn't love anymore but was holding on to anyway and immediately donated them! 🤣 I also talked to my husband about the time we spend together & we worked on making a candle.

This book just really spoke to me!

[Catherine Stroz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to read the book before it’s release. I started reading the book then switched to audiobook. I really enjoyed listening to both Ashley & Dino read as it made the book even more personal. I have been following Ashley & Dino for a long time and I always appreciate their transparency. This book was a raw & honest story of their journey. It’s a perfect mix of design & the reality of marriage. Ash has such a eye for design and it really is such a large part of their lives. It is refreshing to read about the struggles as well as the amazing times. For me, many influencers make their lives look so pretty & perfect when in reality that’s not the truth. Both Ashley & Dino were very honest about their shortcoming and how they turned them into a beautiful marriage with a beautiful family. They both have a very strong faith. If you want a great mix of ways that could improve your marriage, design tips and faith you should really read or listen to Designed to Last. You won’t be disappointed.

[Lisa Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not a big book reader but because of my love for design and the Patrones, I decided to read Designed to Last Much to my surprise, I read it in two days. I could not put it down. There are so many aspects of the book I loved. First, a big hoorah for Dino, who so beautifully penned his part in their story. He was transparent and even gooshy with his emotions; something we don’t commonly find in men. I was captivated by how raw and real they were which helps us all realize that no matter our color, creed, ethnicity, or socio-economic status, we ALL struggle. I found myself jotting down some of the practices they used in addressing such struggles and am already putting them in to use in my own home and marriage. Listen, I’ve been married 30 years and found much of what they shared resourceful in my marriage. And to put the icing on the cake, Ashley‘s design tips are fantastic! She is practical and extremely creative and what’s there not to live about that combo? Whether your looking for life tips or design tips, I highly recommend this book. Go read it!

[Jennifer Jolley · Rating 5 out of 5]

You guys.... don't scroll past this book and not buy it. Ashley and Dino are about the most real, raw and FUN couples you could ever find and they open up in this book in all of the most beautiful ways. I was expecting a book mainly about home design, which is how I personally found them, but it was a million times more impactful than just the design of a home.... it was more about how they had designed their ENTIRE lives. Their faith and devotion to each other, to God and to believing the best FOR THEM will always come to pass is something to be admired. I learned some about home design and a LOT about being better at letting God lead my life through decisions and not trying to keep a tight grip on things.

If I could give this book more stars I would.... this one is NOT to be missed! And if you are on Instagram don't miss following them - @arrowsandbow and @dinojpetrone. They will brighten your days!

[Mmfinn20 · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is so easy to become discouraged in this day in age when we want the instant gratification, when we're so tempted to compare our circumstances to the social media standards, and when we aren't seeking the Lord for guidance. As someone who has been following Ashley and Dino on their Instagram page for a long while, I have been so pleasantly surprised to continue to see that they are the authentic people they portray. I felt this even more as I listened to the audio of their book, Designed to Last. They beautifully intertwine marriage advice and tips with home improvement, and heart improvement. I loved how after reading their book I felt as if I had gotten to know them as if we were visiting face to face. This book will encourage you, it will make you laugh, and it will make you cry. They share their hearts and their love for the Lord and their family in a way that encouraged me to be a better wife, mother, friend, and follower of Christ.

[Sue Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was able to read a copy of Designed to Last before the April 5th release date. After following Ashley and Dino Petrone on Instagram for quite some time, I already had the book pre-ordered, to learn more about them. The book centers on their life and growth through their love of God, family and design. In all honesty, after being married for many decades, I wasn’t sure the parts in the book about the things they have learned about strengthening a marriage and learning how to treat your partner would really apply to me. I was wrong. This book made me stop and examine my own priorities and I realized it is never too late to make positive changes in our relationships and in our homes. This book is for everyone. Young or old, with a partner or without, a lover of decorating or someone who feels like they don’t have any skills…I really think everyone will come away a little wiser after reading it. I loved it!

[Jennifer Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've followed Arrows & Bow on Instagram for a while now and was happy to pre-order this book, if for no other reason than to support a family who brings joy, fun and inspiration to my feed on a daily basis. I would have been fine if it just ended up being a cute coffee table book. It turned out to be so much more. I laughed and I cried (the audiobook version is a must!) and I read things that resonated with me so much that I took action right then and there. In Chapter 9 Ashley and Dino talk about putting love into action. I stopped what I was doing and reached out to a loved one who had been on my mind. I started complimenting my husband all of the time. The home tips were great too. It's inspired me to stop accumulating things that don't really matter to me and keep what is essential and meaningful. Most importantly, Ashley and Dino give testimony after testimony of how seeking God's purpose and plan for our lives is the most fulfilling adventure of all.

[Louisa May Pemberley · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 ⭐️ I had never heard of the Petrones prior to reading this. My sweet husband gave this book to me because it looked like something I would like—highlighting marriage and home design. 🥰 I liked the way it was structured, each chapter including personal narrative from both of their perspectives as well as practical design tips to correlate with the events of that chapter.

The design tips left a bit to be desired… Examples include: “Look on Instagram and Pinterest to see what you like” and “Buy furniture secondhand to save money.” I mean, were those “tips” really worth printing or am I really just *that* ahead of the curve? 😂 They did improve as the book went on, though.

It’s hard to rate a memoir because the content of the book, a person’s experiences, are not really within their control. This was nothing particularly groundbreaking, but it’s hard to justifiably dock them for that. Three stars feels right.

[Mia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I opened this book not expecting it to be very engaging, but was curious about her home design tips. I walked away encouraged by their individual journeys of maturity over the years, and the home design tips were a bonus. It just goes to show that just because someone has a big, successful social media presence, it doesn't mean their relationships are perfect. A lot of their destructive behaviors were relatable, and I was challenged to stop focusing on what I want to fix about my spouse, and to instead focus on what I can change about myself and surrendering the rest to the Lord. Nothing revolutionary, but relevant for my current experience nonetheless. One criticism is that they write with a lot of dialogue, which is not a writing style I particularly like. So if you only want to read really good writing, you may not enjoy this read.

[Heather42201 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I pre-ordered this book months and months ago. When I was offered an advanced copy, I was so excited. I dove into it immediately skipping over lots in my to read pile. I knew this book was going to be good but it honestly exceeded my expectations. I read it once so fast that I had to go back and read it slower. I truly think it should be required reading before you get married. I found their advice to be practical and actionable. I have been married a long time and I still found so much to consider and think on. The home design was so fun and inspired me to try some new things in our home. Ashley and Dino are so real, fun and relatable. I enjoy them so much and this book did not disappoint

[Kaitlyn Devolve · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not much into God's plans but do believe in signs and the feelings you get when deciding something. Ashley and Dino created this book full of home ideas and to tell you about how things started for them and how they got there. But they also some how wrote a book that made me want to underline passages, rethink how I say and look at things and find the positives in crazy situations. Each of us are not even close to perfect and they admit it but it's how we look at things, how we control how we react to them that makes us who we are.

My two favorite quotes from the book -
"When you hit a glitch, focus on what you're learning, overcome the challenge and move on"
"Discipline is saying no to the things we want right now so we can have the things we want most later"

[Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Designed to Last has been somewhat of an unexpected joy. I listened to the audio version first and have to say, the back and forth between Dino and Ashley and their takes on each topic offer a unique perspective. The reader gets a glimpse into the whole relationship and how they processed tough decisions as a couple and learned to seek God first in all things. The added tips from Ashley at the end of chapter are a fun addition and as a long time follower of hers via Instagram these are all things Ashley herself has implemented. Tried and true, practical advice from a couple who walks the walk. It doesn’t hurt that it’s beautifully designed either. Highly recommend reading for a miriad of reasons.