Moving Outside For Summer

It's my favorite thing about summer . . . moving outside. Eating, cooking, socializing, reading. It all happens outside. And I love every minute of it!

As a designer, one of my favorite things is making the outside look and function much like the inside. And it's so easy! Whether it's an open porch, a screened-in porch, or a patio, bring your own style and flair to make it look and function just as you do on the inside. 

That means make the seating open and inviting to conversation. Make sure it's arranged to take in the focal point/view. Have plenty of tables. Add a throw rug for color, pattern, and texture. If there's a wall, hang something on it. Accessorize with pillows and plants.

And don't forget the lighting! If electricity is available, add lamps or a ceiling fixture. Otherwise, candles are perfect. 

Need a little privacy? Add curtains. Or a curtain of plants. 

Bottom line? Have fun! Get creative with everything. Need a table? Add a top to a bird bath. Color shy indoors? Now's your time to go crazy! Don't hesitate to mix and match furnishings and accessories. Tag sale finds can find a great new life with a coat of paint. Just don't take too long making it yours. Summer doesn't last forever. 

May Your Holidays Be Merry and Light!

My holidays have become simpler over the years. One reason is because of changes in family life. But a lot of it is choice. I am now much more interested in quieter times with family and friends, more experiences and fewer gifts, and smaller gatherings.

But something I still must have during the holidays are lights. Because it's the darkest time of the year, nothing cheers me up more than lights . . . and lots of them. Candles of all sorts, Christmas tree lights, lights on mantels, and roping . . . they all count.

And the more the merrier. I love, love, love candles. Nothing makes a prettier dining table than lots of candles (particularly tea lights and votives) scattered throughout. And the more creative the holder, the better. Pretty glasses, small crystal bowls, and upside down wine stems all make excellent votive and tea light holders. Add flowers in reflective vases, some greens (maybe with lights), and you won't need the chandelier.

Outside lights in the front of the house are a given. Even though we are on a hill with lots of trees, the lights twinkle through the branches as the cars drive by. And what a treat for guests as they drive up the driveway and the lights come into full view. I also love luminarias lighting the walkway. But again, maybe  not the traditional bags, but something a big different. Lanterns that decorate the porch in the summertime make beautiful luminarias in the wintertime. If there aren't enough for the walkway, then lighting the porch steps works almost as well.

And finally, I love outside lights that are designed to be seen inside. It's usually too cold to enjoy the porch in the winter, but I love lining it with lights that are clearly visible from the inside. And nothing beats lights on the boulders in the back of the yard. Or outlining the birdbath. Seeing these reminders of summer from my kitchen windows always brings a smile.

Which is why when January comes and the tree comes down, as well as the interior decorations, the lights in the backyard stay. I call them winter lights and they have made me happy on the darkest, coldest, snowiest days of January and February.

So this holiday season I am wishing for you a season of light - that lasts all through the winter!

Make It Easy On Yourself

I'd put that to music if I could figure out how to do that on a blog. But that's my motto for summertime. Yes, I still like having guests over. And that usually means drinks and at least snacks, if not a meal. So I want everything to look pretty and be comfortable. But the difference is everything moves outside rather than inside, already making things easier. And clean-up is a snap!

Photo courtesy Pottery Barn

Still I do keep a few indoor "rules". There are nice conversation areas on the porch and deck with plenty of comfortable seating and candles for nighttime ambiance. There are plenty of pillows as well as throws for the cooler evenings. Storage for extras like blankets and games as well as for rainy days is available in a pretty wicker-look weather-proof deck box. I'm lucky to have a porch so rainy days don't force us inside. But screened gazebos work just as well.

Pier 1

One thing I love to do is go a little crazy with color. Indoors there are wall colors and the flow from room to room. Plus you have to live with it all the time. Outdoors is all about fun. So choose colors that make you happy.

I do love a rug. And lighting in the form of candles and string lights is a must. Accessories are simple and often come directly from nature. Think pretty pots of annuals or vases of flowers from the garden.

Because easy is what it's all about. I have a stash of pretty melamine plates and glasses that are indestructible and right by the kitchen door. The huge pitcher for lemonade or margaritas is easily accessible. I use pretty dish towels in place of napkins so who cares what happens to them?

And even the food is easy. I have the pizza restaurant just down the street on speed-dial and an assortment of yummy Trader Joe's prepared appetizers in the freezer. The basement refrigerator is stocked with soft drinks, wine and soda (love those spritzers!), beer, and margarita mix.

So yes, I still care about how everything looks. And I want to make sure my guests are comfortable. But without all the fussiness of indoor entertaining. Now if only I had a pool . . .

Flea Market Style

I think there used to be a magazine by that name . . . maybe there still is. But rather than sharing the best flea markets or how to spot the best flea market finds, the "style" I'm referring to is the actual shopping style you use . . . the one that makes sure you come home with only those things that are truly important to you.

And of course flea market time is upon us. So (surprise, surprise) I have a few suggestions . . .

First, if at all possible make a list of things you are interested in buying. Want to add to your collection of Fiesta ware? Write down specifics - color, type, style - that will enable you to focus on what you want. And not come home with duplicates or something that just doesn't work.

If it's not a specific item you need, but something of a certain color or shape or size for a specific place, then be open. But if you find something that's close but just not quite right, pass it by. You really won't be happy with it.

Have a budget. Know just how much you are willing to spend. And stick to it!

Don't get distracted by that one shiny object. If you see something you must have, walk away from it. Sure, there's a chance it might not be there when you get back. But step away anyhow and really think about it. Does buying this piece mean your budget is gone? Make sure you're okay with that. Do you have a place for it? If
not, can you find a place for it? Will you use it? (I'm sorry but I'm not sold on the idea that if you love it you'll find a home for it. I've worked in too many homes that have too much stuff or stuff that just doesn't work.) If it's still calling your name, buy it. But still stick with your budget. And make sure you find the perfect place for it in your home.

Oh yeah . . . and just have fun! Enjoy the weather, the food vendors, chatting with the vendors. Flea markets are a fabulous way to spend a summer day!

How About a Little Spring?

Even though today is quite chilly in the northeast, the warm-up has begun. It's quite early, but it's definitely here. The sun hasn't quite come into its spring position in the sky, but it's still bright. And that makes me want to bring spring inside.

Quite frankly I get tired of all the articles about changing paint colors for spring, or fabrics, or overall color schemes. Most of us don't have the time or money to make such big changes every season. Nor are we interested in doing that. Sure, we can bring in a floral pillow, but the colors need to go with what we have going on in the room.

Having said that, I do like to bring in spring in easy, inexpensive ways. And of course flowers fit the bill. It's very easy to pick up a spring bouquet, put it in a pretty vase, and voila! But doing something a little different can be even more fun. Force a forsythia branch to flower (or other favorite early spring bloomer), put some beautiful spring bulbs in a pretty container. Or better  yet, make an arrangement with a variety of bulbs for a big pop of color. (Hyacinth, early blooming daffodils, or scilla are beautiful and easy.)

Don't just think inside. Clean off the front porch. Put the snow shovel away - or at least  hide somewhere. Chances are you won't need it very much anymore this season. And if you have porch furniture, add a little softness and color. I always put an outdoor pillow and a throw on the rocking chairs I have on my front porch. It may be a little early to spend much time out there, but it looks inviting and always brings a smile to my face (and to our visitors, I hope). An indoor/outdoor rug is also a great idea - and shouldn't

BHG

suffer too much from the exposure.

And finally, clean your windows. I know, I know. This is my least favorite spring ritual. But it makes such a difference. As the sun shines brighter through our windows, it's so much nicer to open the draperies, raise the shades, and enjoy the light streaming in. Before long, we'll be able to enjoy it on the outside!

Winter Decorating - It's All About Texture

Some of the decorating ideas I see post-holiday may look beautiful but seem really impractical. They often involve bringing in orange or another bright color or adding plaid or another pattern that just isn't practical. Most of us already have a decorating scheme in our homes, so adding another color or pattern just doesn't work. And most of us (well, me and my clients) don't want to spend money on winter slipcovers or any other major (expensive) change just for a season.

But that doesn't mean there's nothing you can do to make the dark days of winter a little brighter - and softer. And it all starts with texture. Bring in something soft and cozy,something that makes you forget about the cold dreariness outside. What about a soft shaggy rug in a neutral color? White works just fine as does a soft gray. And it doesn't have to be large, just strategically placed. By the side of the bed, in the bathroom, or layered over another rug works just fine.

If a rug is too much, try a throw. Just make it warm and cuzzy (my mother-in-law's favorite word). Or pillows. For the bed, for the sofa, even for lounging on the floor. Make sure they are an inviting winter-time texture. (You can get these adorable ones at Etsy.) Keep your colors neutral or blend them with your current decorating scheme. As long as the texture says comfort and warmth, your home will feel cozy through the long winter.

Make It Easy on Yourself

We are starting what for many of us is a stressful time of year. First comes Thanksgiving, a time of gratitude, sharing our bounty in the spirit of giving. And preparing a perfect meal with perfect decorations  . . . and having it with people we may love, but may not always get along with, particularly under stressful circumstances.

And that's just the start of the season!

Country Living

So I say do what you can to make it easy on yourself. Keep decorations simple. Do a little foraging for the perfect autumn look and feel. There are plenty of leaves available which will last well past the holiday with just a little pressing. Branches with or without berries look fabulous in simple vases. Purchase Pumpkins on a Stick from Trader Joe's for a real showstopper.

Elle Decor

Use your everyday dishes. Just do something a little different with them. Instead of napkins use dishtowels. Nicer than paper but without the worry of the "nice" napkins. Add a simple centerpiece of pumpkins and natural elements, with perhaps a candle or two.

And instead of the formal sit-down meal, serve buffet-style. No need to do anything fancy. Use the kitchen island and a couple of candles for the buffet. Let the meal take center stage.

And most importantly, remember what matters. Spend time with those you love. That's what everyone will remember long after the last of the turkey is gone.

You've Got This

One of the most difficult aspects of working with my clients is seeing how some of them struggle to feel comfortable in their own homes. And the reason is usually because they think they don't know how to "decorate". It seems that with our design "rules" and shelter magazines, we've intimidated people so they are afraid of doing something wrong. So they do nothing at all.

I understand when people have rooms that just don't quite seem right and they can't figure out why not. There are some things that do go a long way towards making rooms warm and inviting. But that's different from not doing anything because you're afraid to do the wrong thing.

So here are a few of my "rules" that anyone can implement. And immediately feel better about their homes.

1. If you don't love it or use it, lose it. Why keep things around you that aren't useful or don't make you smile when you see them?
2. If you do love it, showcase it, whatever it is. And no matter what anyone else says. That means putting it on display, hanging it on the wall, using it regularly and not just on special occasions.
3. Less is generally more, but only because we can really notice our things if there's not too much else around them. That doesn't mean getting rid of anything (unless you don't love it), but perhaps rotating your things. You'll really appreciate them so much more when you do see them. 
4. Don't pay attention to trends, unless there's one you happen to really love. I can't tell you how
   
   many times I hear things like "I really love green, but I know it's not a good color for a dining room". There are no decorating police. See Rule #2.

Of course there are tips and tricks that can really work to make our homes look and feel the way we like. And we don't always know what they are or how to use them. But start with these 4 "rules" and you'll be well on your way!

Focus On What's Important

I was recently interviewed on a local television program and was asked what room in the house I thought people neglected the most. This is a no brainer.......the master bedroom. We usually focus on the rooms people will see, rather than the room where we spend the most time and need the most to rest, relax, and get a good night's sleep.

I understand why we all want to make our public rooms pretty. But it's very easy and not expensive to have a warm, inviting, comfortable bedroom. And I think it's important to our overall mental health.

Photo Courtesy BHG

The first thing to do is remove clutter. Waking up every morning to the laundry that hasn't been put away, yesterday's clothes on the chair, and disarray on all the surfaces isn't the best way to greet each day. Not to mention making it difficult to sleep at night because of the guilt. Don't make your bedroom the catch-all room. De-clutter once, then spend a few minutes each day making sure it stays that way.

Keep your bedroom the place where you rest, relax, and retreat. That means remove the exercise equipment, office/work area, and - dare I say it - the television. If you're addicted to watching television from bed, I probably won't get far with that one. But there are many, many studies that equate watching television from your bed is not a good thing for a number of reasons. But it that's not a change you're willing to make, do what you can about the other two. Get creative about using other space, especially for your office. What about a staircase landing? Or adding shelves and a desk to a little-used closet? If it has to stay in the master bedroom, at least make sure it's in an area that can be separated from the rest of the room, if only by an attractive screen. I purchased a great Shoji screen for a client at a very reasonable price from Target, which has plenty of other styles to choose from as well.

Add some texture. Bedrooms are lots of hard surfaces, other than the bed. So add panels at the window (make them stationery if you don't need them for privacy), An upholstered chair is always a wonderful touch if there is room (as long as you don't use it to hold yesterday's clothes). And so are decorative pillows, a throw, and a live plant. Even round shapes can soften the hard lines, so change your lamps or bedside tables to
softer lines.

The bottom line? Find the peace you deserve in the room that matters the most. And without breaking the bank.

Where Should the Money Be Spent?

It's getting close to move time! We will be in our new home shortly after the 4th of July. It's been a long while since I moved into a new home........16 years to be exact. I've been implementing suggestions I've used with my clients. And what better way to prove them true! Here are a few I've shared that are also working for me.

First, when buying new upholstered furniture, particularly the largest and most expensive pieces (such as the sofa) stay with neutrals. That means not only a neutral fabric, but also a neutral style. Neutral doesn't have to be borrowing, but it does  have to be something that can easily change as your tastes change. So when you want to change from the mod colors above to something a bit more formal and subdued, you can do so without having to spend a fortune on a new sofa.Or in the room below, plan for when the kids get older and their artwork is replaced by something more adult the sofa will still work. Simply change the coffee table and end table for something a bit more sophisticated and you have a new room - with the old sofa!


Keep window treatments simple. If you need privacy or light control, something classic and practical like Hunter Douglas Silhouettes or the rattan shades in these photos can be used alone. Ready for a change? Add stationery panels in fabrics and colors that give  you the new look and feel you are after. A much less expensive alternative to new custom draperies with all the bells and whistles. And an instant update to the room!

And finally, use area rugs to give you the color and texture you need, but don't spend a fortune. That way when it's time for a change in the style of the room, the rug can be a part of that change - and one you won't feel badly about.

New Purposes for Old Things

As we begin the process of getting our home ready to sell, I've come across some very interesting things. Things that at one time I thought could really be turned into something really cute, or very handy, or at least very different. It's become a bit of a challenge as I remember all the great ideas I had for some of these pieces.And now I really need to get rid of them for the move.

Courtesy Elle Decor

To try to come to terms with this very hard task, I thought I would share with you a few creative uses for old things I've come across, beginning with mason jars. I've had a thing for mason jars ever since going to a restaurant in Houston a million years ago called The Mason Jar, where they served their drinks in - what else? - mason jars. That's certainly one (not particularly creative) idea, but what about this adorable soap dispenser? And of course, there are plenty of others, like votive holders (hold the candle using colored sand in interesting patterns), light fixtures, especially cute when configured as a pendant light), and so many more.

Courtesy BHG

While mason jars are very simple, here's an entire desk with accessories made from repurposed items! From the table-turned-hanging desk, to the kitchen implements as storage and the wired frame as a bulletin board, this desk makes great use of old items.

And not all of the ideas have to be for rustic or country looks. What about using crystal wine glasses as candle holders? Turn them upside down put a pretty flower in the bowl of the glass and a votive on top for an elegant addition to a beautiful dining table. Beautiful bureaus can be turned into elegant bathroom washstands. And on and on and on.

This was probably not a good blog post to write as I'm getting rid of things......how am I supposed to let these things go?

If you would like to see more fun repurposed items, be sure to check out my latest board on Pinterest.

Staging Tips You Can Live With

Spring really is coming......and now is the time many people are getting their homes ready to sell when the snow finally does melt. Many of these houses for sale will still be occupied, which means the home owners must still live in them. Not any easy thing to do when you have kids, pets, jobs and a life.But it is possible to make some changes that will help your home appeal to potential buyers - and also to you while you're still living there.

Begin with paring down. When you move, do you really want to take the boxes you haven't unpacked from the last move? Or the toys the kids have outgrown? The clothes you really (just face it) won't want or be able to wear again? Clean them out now, while the weather doesn't encourage you to go outside. Then enjoy the feeling of spaciousness that comes with less "stuff".

Make a few simple updates. Because we've been stuck inside you may have had the opportunity to look around your house ..... a little too closely. That's okay because now is the time to make a few of those changes that are bugging you. Changes that will also appeal to the next owner. Rooms need a fresh coat of paint? While you may want to wait until you can open the windows at least for a little while (although low VOC paints really don't have much odor at all), go ahead and pick out the colors. Don't play it too safe. White can feel very cold, can show all the fingerprints, and be just plain boring. Consider instead warm neutrals that flow from room to room. I'm a huge fan of the Benjamin Moore Historical Colors. Most are beautiful colors that go with anything.

While you may not want to purchase new furniture, take a look at what you've got. Will you be taking it to the new house? If not, now may be the time to get rid of it. While that may feel empty to you, live with it for a while. You may find less furniture open up the rooms, making them feel more spacious. If not, try rearranging the furniture. Remember the goal is to showcase the house, so a different furniture arrangement may not only make the house feel better, it gives you the opportunity
to showcase features of the house like the fireplace or the view to the backyard.

If the house still feels a little boring, add a few simple touches. Slipcovers may give your tired sofa a boost, new throw pillows may add a bit of pizazz, and a new duvet cover may update your master bedroom. Just remember not to decorate too much. It's the house you're selling not the furnishings!

Rugs Aren't the Only Answer for Floors

While I've never done it in my own home, painted floors are beginning to appeal to me. It started with a great article in House Beautiful.......and went from there. There are so many creative ideas out there!

Courtesy HGTV

If  your wood floor just isn't in good shape, a paint job may be just the uplift you need. And if you keep it simple not only will it be a fraction of the cost of refinishing, but you can also keep your area rug.

Courtesy House Beautiful

Want a little more interest? Think colors! A pretty color will add more pizazz and make a rug unnecessary. If you're afraid of going to bright in the house, what about a porch or patio? Nothing brings to mind summer skies better than a sky blue floor.

If you really want to get creative, consider a pattern. While this may be a little tricky for the amateur (but certainly not impossible), even the cost of hiring a professional is worth the unique patterns you can have. Your floor becomes truly one of a kind.

If your entire floor doesn't need painting (or even if it does), consider a painted rug. And just like a "real" rug, the wear and tear on a painted rug just adds a lovely patina.

If you decide to paint your floor, there are a few things to keep in mind. The floor needs to be completely free of dirt and dust before you begin. Otherwise, you'll have a bit more texture than you may have bargained for. If you're getting a bit creative, it's probably a good idea to paint a sample board. That way you can make sure you are getting the colors, patterns and textures you really want. If the floor is already varnished, that will need to be removed before painting. And a coat of polyurethane is probably a very good idea, particularly in high traffic areas.

Like these ideas but want to see more? Check out my Painted Floors board on Pinterest!

We Need Lights at This Time of Year!

Lighting is critical in a good design plan. But even more so during the dark days of winter. While you may not have the budget to redo your home's entire lighting scheme, there are some easy changes you can make to make your home lighter and brighter at this time of year.

Begin with the entry. Even if you have a chandelier, a lamp on the entry table or a floor lamp beside a chair invite your visitors inside and set the tone for the rest of the home.

Check out the living and family rooms. Would changing lamp shades to a lighter color help? What about adding ambient lighting, such as a pretty accent lamp on a bookshelf or one or two on the mantel? Not only does this provide additional soft lighting to the room, they also help to draw your eye to a focal point of the room.

Dining rooms usually have a chandelier of some sort. (Design tip: your chandelier should be at least 12 inches narrower than the table and hung between 27" and 36" above it.) But what about buffet lamps? Would that bring a nice glow to the room?

Under-cabinet lighting is nice in the kitchen, but if you don't have it what about adding an accent lamp on the countertop? Ditto bathrooms, where having a lit lamp feels much warmer than walking into a dark space.

There are so many options available for lighting today. It's nice to know you don't have to spend a fortune if you don't want to! Want a few more ideas? Then check out my newest board on Pinterest Inexpensive Lighting Options

Something Different For Fall

I know there are a lot of nice decorating ideas for fall. But sometimes they can seem a bit similar. So I started considering a few things that may bring a little difference to our decorating.

The first I came up with is a different take on a table runner. I love burlap and most of its incarnations, but webbing? Now this is cool! And HGTV gives you instructions on how to make it. 

What about changing the color of traditional fall decorating? Instead of the usual red and gold, what about a deep purple (think cabbages and eggplant), greens of late season peppers and gourds (those can be pretty bright) or even the browns of Indian corn? (Check out for most recent board on Pinterest for a lovely take on a brown and cranberry table setting.)


Another idea: select fall patterns instead of just fabrics for your pillows and throws. Fall fabrics are of course sumptious (although you might consider tweed instead of something more "traditional" like chenille). But a houndstooth pattern has always said fall (and Overstock has plenty of it).

There's also nothing wrong with the tried-and-true at this time of year - just consider a twist on the theme. If you've ever seen pumpkins on a stick (Trader Joe's and Whole Foods always have them at this time of year), they may become a fall decorating staple. And nothing beats traditional pumpkins used in slightly less traditional ways (think vases, candle holders, and serving stands).

The good news is that there are as many decorating ideas for fall as there are leaves on the trees.......so pick your favorites and have fun!
And if you need a little more inspiration, check out my latest board on Pinterest.

Winter Bedrooms

Nothing is better during the winter than settling into a nice cozy bed - in a nice cozy bedroom. Although I'm a believer in the sanctity of the bedroom at any time of year, it becomes even more important during the cold winter nights which are almost upon us.

Courtesy BHG

Many of my clients consider their bedrooms last in their decorating priority list. But I encourage them to at the very least consider easy, cost-effective changes to make this an inviting sanctuary at the end of the day.

One of the easiest changes is layering. Use a white quilt - no duvet cover is even necessary. Cover it with a lighter weight coverlet to add color and interest. Or fold a beautiful blanket at the end of the bed for additional warmth as needed.Add a wool throw pillow and you're ready for chilly nights!

Courtesy BHG

If you prefer a colorful duvet, it can be easy to make. Simply sew two sheets together on three sides and add velcro or pretty ribbon ties on the fourth to keep it together. Fold it at the end of the bed or use it as a spread for a pretty, colorful change.

Courtesy BHG

But don't stop with the bedding. What about adding a soft, textured cover to the bedside table?This may be in the living room, but it would still be at home next to the bed.

And of course, there are a flokati rug will add coziness, a bit of a warm, dramatic color, soft lighting, candles......you get the idea. For more winter bedroom inspiration, check out my new board on Pinterest.

Maybe You Need a Little Texture.......

Sometimes a room really seems to come together........except there's something that just seems to be missing. If you can't quite put your finger on it, that missing element may be texture.

Courtesy BHG

Texture can be easily overlooked so it often plays a quiet - but very important role - in our design plan. It creates interest, helps to set the mood of a room, and helps us to "feel" the room (because we remember how textures feel when we see them).

Typically, more traditional rooms have softer textures than those that are a bit more modern.Notice in the photo at left how the soft texture of the sofa contrasts nicely with the smoother texture of two of the throw pillows. The smoothness of the coffee table blends nicely with the textured sofa - and woven rug underneath adds another element. The smoothness of the lampshade helps balance the smoothness of the coffee table and the floral arrangements add their own very unique texture to the entire room.

Courtesy BHG

In a more contemporary room texture tends to play more of a minimalist role because of the sleekness of the style. However, even in this room, the chairs add a softness without the nubby comfort of the more traditional room. And all of the smoothness of the room is offset by the very plush rug, but without taking away from the contemporary look and feel of the room.

When incorporating texture into your room, keep in mind a few basic tips. Carry the texture story around the room, just like you do with the color story. Similar textures placed around the room will help carry your eye through the space, just as color does. In more colorful rooms, less is probably better with differing textures. The color statement may be so strong that a variety of textures may overwhelm the space. And finally, don't be afraid to do something a bit dramatic if it seems to be called for in the room. Just as that special accessory can add the punch a room needs, so can a very interesting texture.

If you'd like to see a few more examples of texture, check out my new board on Pinterest!

Late Summer/Early Fall Outdoor Entertaining

I know a lot of people consider Labor Day the end of summer. But there are actually still a few more weeks of summer. And even more weeks than that to enjoy the outdoors. In fact, late summer and early fall get-togethers can be some of the best of the year. You don't have to worry about a heat wave. Yummy fresh, local food is available, making recipes simple. People are looking for something to celebrate now that summer vacations are over. So now is the perfect time to have an outdoor party. Just keep in mind a few things to make it even better.

A great way to light the stairs

Because it gets dark earlier, have plenty of outdoor lighting. Bring lamps from the inside to the outdoors for the evening. Have plenty of candles in hurricanes or other protected containers that still give plenty of light. Place solar lighting in strategic locations. Make it safe for people to navigate while creating a warm ambience.

Prepare for cooler evenings. Have blankets and throws available. Set up a fire pit or a chimenea for both warmth and ambience. Invest in a heat lamp, especially if you would like to do this often.

Decorate for the season. Use apples, mums, pumpkins, acorns, leaves. Get creative and use these items for centerpieces, to hold food (hollowed out pumpkins make great soup bowls), as candle holders or as place cards.

Then relax..........and let the fun begin! And if you like these ideas, check out more on my new Pinterest board.

The Importance of Vignettes

I had the opportunity to stage a small but light-filled vacant condo in Milford, CT last week. Of course it was on a limited budget, which meant lots of creativity with the accessorizing. Then when I saw a fabulous vignette posted by Jill Hosking Cartland of Hosking Interiors on Facebook, I realized just how important accessorizing and vignettes are - regardless of the budget. They are truly like the icing on the cake.

So what does it take to create a memorable vignette? For one thing, not overdoing it. That means to let the display items speak for themselves. The simplicity of this arrangement allows each of the items to work together without one of them standing out. And the colors work perfectly with the rest of the room.

Courtesy BHG

Scale  is also important. Not only do the accessories need to fit the space they also need to work with each other. If implementing the rule of 3, think small, medium, and large.

Creativity in vignettes really makes them personal. Adding items that are important to you and your family add meaning. And mixing styles and textures can also create interest. And don't forget the artwork! Including artwork when appropriate completes the "picture".

Color, textures, shapes, creativity in selection - all go together to create something memorable. And for additional ideas, check out my new board on Pinterest.

That '70's Look

I'm not sure I'm wild about it, but it seems to be making a comeback. Having started my first away-from-home decorating experiences in college during the '70's, it can feel a little old to me rather than retro. Having said that, there are some things from the '70's I'm glad to see!

I love, love, love "shag" rugs. Now called Flokati, modern shag, or longer-pile rugs, they have a softer more appealing look than those of the '70's, despite being a bit difficult to clean.

While avocado green isn't a favorite, there is something to be said for harvest gold, especially when paired with brighter, more up-to-date colors like this light green and orange.

IKEA has fabulous offerings of the '70's retro look. Complete with floral coverings for their sofas and chairs, interesting coffee and end tables
(remember metal carts?), and very cool lights, it may just be the go-to place for that '70's look. I love this table!

And finally, lighting.....think swags, chrome, lava lamps........ Okay, forget the lava lamps. But don't hesitate to swag your pendant lamp. And if you're looking for a desk lamp, what could be cuter - or more retro - than this?

If you're like me and thinking maybe the '70's decorating wasn't all bad, check out my new board on Pinterest.