a. lamp  |  b. office chair  |  c. rug  |  d. writing desk  |  e. label maker  |  f. scanner  |  g. echo for listen to podcasts |  h. acrylic box to organize tile and fabric samples  | 
i. water bottle  |  j.  business/computer bag

Once upon a time there was a creative gal that loves design and wants to establish a business to help other people love their homes too. She got the education she need to work in the state that she lives and now she is ready to order some business cards and start taking on clients. She does not want to work from the kitchen table with the burden of clearing it each night before dinner. Instead she wants to convert a small spare room to be her office... but where should she begin setting it up?

A lamp to see, a stylish chair to sit at in front of a desk to write or work at are a few basics at the top of the list. A cozy rug will ground the space and make it feel more comfortable too. Next she asked herself how she can start to get organized? It's amazing all the documents and little scraps of paper that can start to build up and it can overwhelm an office quickly. The scanner (f) in the gadget section above would be a great tool and its a portable tool you can bring to site meetings as well.  She'll pair the acrylic boxes (h) with the label maker (e) to organize all kinds of samples. Should she store like items together, samples from a specific manufacturer, or a collection of samples related to one project? The options are endless.

Growing ones mind is also an important skill to sharpen. Having the echo (g) in the office to ask a quick measurement conversion question or listen to a great interior design mindful podcast like "A well designed business" will make the day feel more enjoyable. 

Hoping the client calls will come quickly and often, she is  always be ready to head out the door with a great business bag (j) filled with client consultation needs. A refillable water bottle (i) note pad, graph paper, pen, tape measure, paint fan deck and booties to cover your shoes in case of rain are few of the items hidden in the bag.  A great motto is "Always be prepared". 

a. bed  |  b. comforter  |  c. nightstand  |  d. throw  |  e. accent pillow  |
f. boucle chair  |  g. rug

a. throw  |  b. art  |  c. mirror  |  d. door knocker  |  e. lamp  |  f.  coral  | 
​g. woven table    |   h. accent chair

a. 7.5' tree  |  b.  eucalyptus wreath  |  c.  ornaments  |  d. window candles  |
e.  National Lampoons Christmas House  |  f.  bells  |  g. garland  | 
h. wrapping paper  |  i.  owl  |  j.  Large Polar Bear

a. mattress  |  b. sheet set  |  c. mountain art  |  d.  metal bed  |  e.  hotel pillows  
f. rug  |  g.  comforter  |  h. accent pillows  |  i. nightstand

a. towels  |  b. dish set  |  c.  wooden serving tools  |  d. wood bowl  |  e.  salt bowl  |  f.  drinking glasses  |  g.  cutting board  |  h.  pan set

a. 360 AUTO TRACKING PHONE HOLDER  |  b.   ROLLING BAG  |  c. ADAPTER   | 
​  d.  TYPEWRITER ATTACHMENT   |   e.  BACKUP CHARGER

a. I don't know about you, but I feel like my arms are not long enough to get the perfect selfie or action shot with my phone in my hand. This 360 AUTO TRACKING PHONE HOLDER will allow you to move about a space to create videos for making reels for social media or other marketing material. Sometimes we can not have someone follow us around and this helps the solo-designer create fun videos.

b. Let's talk about visiting market. My first visit to market I made the mistake of carrying a regular bag and my shoulder was raw by day three. I learned my lesson and got a rolling bag like this for my next trip to High Point Market. What makes this ROLLING BAG a great choice is the multiple pockets, its compact size so can be used as a carry on but also can hold lots of things like a water bottle, a collection of fabric samples, snacks and so much more. The extension handle is a must and it's great that it has four wheels not just two. You won't regret having a rolling bag like this the next time you visit market.

c. Have you ever gone to venue and are concerned you will not have the right connection to do your presentation? This ADAPTER is a great detail to keep in your work bag and have as a backup. I am one to overprepare for presentations and plan for technology to fail me. This mindset has been proven time and time again to be a good thing to have. Always be prepared!

d. If you take a  lot of notes in your meetings and find it challenging to type with the device in your hand, this TYPEWRITE ATTACHMENT may make meeting so much easier (and a little FUN).  I've seen people struggle with those keyboards that attach to their iPad with a magnet but this baby holds the device for you. So you can place it on a nearby surface or set it right on your lap to get your notes done. 

e. A BACKUP CHARGER - is there any more to say?  My last business trip I carried two of these and was able to share with a couple other travelers when they were stuck trying to find a way to charge your phone. It does such a good job that it was not a worry that it would not have enough battery to help me out if I were to need it too.  I love feeling prepared for success!

RUG  |  SECTIONAL  | CHAIR  |  ART  |  MIRROR

For this space I pulled in some timeless pieces and added a pop of color with the moss colored leggy chair.  If this was my own home I would likely pull in a bit more colorful rug, but sometimes neutral is the way to go. This selection of items could go a million different directions with wall color and other elements like patterned drapes and the like.
I love designing a space with pieces that can stand the test of time. I really can envision sitting in this sectional in front of a whole bank of windows peering out over a well groomed backyard.
If you'd like to see what other sizes or configurations these come in please reach out. CONTACT

​When it comes to picking a new sofa,  sometimes it’s a lifestyle preference and sometimes it's a practicality choice.  

One of the BIGGEST questions to answer when purchasing a new sofa: "Which style best fits my style and space?"
There are many factors to take into consideration for this purchase. Most important: How do you live your day-to-day life?  If you have young kids, are planning on having kids, or enjoy the companionship of fun-loving pets – that should play an important role in deciding between fabric or leather upholstery. Do you have allergies? How firm of a seat do you prefer? The list is sort of endless!

Throw Pillows  |  Candle  |  Canvas Art  |  Floor Lamp  |  Bar Cart  | End Table |
Leather Sofa  |  Fabric Upholstered Sofa  |   Sconce Lighting  |  Herringbone Rug  |   Storage Basket  |  Smart Coffee Table  |  Humidor  | Bookcase 

​Leather can be great for kids and allergies! Pets, however, can leave significant scratch marks. (Truth be told, I have known a kid or two that carved their name into a leather sofa with a finger nail or toy while watching cartoons.)
Many folks see leather as a status symbol and commit without thinking about how they love to slouch and snuggle on the sofa. Leather is beautiful in so many ways, but it can be cold to relax on. Remember this in your shopping excursion.

Fabric choices have come a long way! High-level performance fabrics are designed to withstand messy guests that spill, pets that get the zoomies at all hours of the day (and run their sassy selves all around), and so much more. 

​It depends! I know that does not give a definitive direction on what you should choose. No matter what features you are attracted to, give careful consideration to all your lifestyle factors. 

Have you ever wondered what the difference was between a sofa and a couch??
This article from Wayfair tells an interesting tale. 

What Is a Sofa? Sofa vs. Couch

"The terms "sofa" and "couch" are often used interchangeably to refer to large, cushioned pieces of living room furniture that can seat anywhere from two to over 10 people in a wide variety of settings, from casual movie nights to formal evening parties. But are they actually the same?
In short, yes – nowadays, the terms "sofa" and "couch" are commonly understood to be synonymous.

Historically, there was indeed a difference between the two terms. Named after the French word for "to lie down" or "to sleep" ("coucher"), couches were small, comfy, and armless. In contrast, sofas were named after Arabic "suffahs," which were hard wooden benches adorned with cushions and blankets. Typically larger, more formal, and less comfortable than couches, sofas were elegant pieces meant for hosting guests.

Today, some designers abide by those distinctions – sofas are more formal, couches are more casual – but most people ascribe the same meaning to both. Whether you're team sofa or team couch, you are sure to find what you're looking for."

|  1. Cynthia  |  2. Verena  | 3. Dark Side  |  4. Camellia  |  5. Cambria  |    

I have been hunting for a rug to put under my kitchen table for a while now. The dynamic patterns on these selections above will go well with my home décor and I won't need to worry about muddy dog paws or dropped food. There are many shapes, colors and patterns to choose from.

​Click on the individual links of the ones I displayed to look closer or search for one that would go with your home décor. Spring sale going on right now until 3/22/21. Don't miss out and get yourself ready for the Spring thaw that is coming.
​
Bring on the warm weather!!

Disclosure: Some of the shopping links attached are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. 

Surfing the web can certainly put things in front of you that you were not even looking for. I have probably tripped across this sofa a dozen times on the internet and my heart usually skips a beat every time. For the lifestyle of my home, velvet is a good performance fabric and I typically gravitate towards it. 
The world of upholstery has come a long way & there are so many performance fabrics these days. Some offer durability with a simple solid, while others come on strong with bold pattern AND a bulletproof appeal. Obviously I'm exaggerating on the bulletproof part,  but it makes a clear point. 
No matter your preference, it is important to consider how long a piece will last you and fit your lifestyle. This beauty is on my wish list for the next time I'm looking for a sofa for just the right project.... or maybe even for myself.

​

Lighting is one of the most dynamics details of any interior, and it should be said that it can be one of the most difficult elements to design and choose.

Are you are thinking of replacing a single light in your home or revamping a whole bunch? Shopping for just the right lighting can be a full time job in some cases. I happened to be surfing the inter-webs today and tripped across the Radford Chandelier and instantly fell in love. For as much as one can love an inanimate object that is. It's nice to see something NEW that has not oversaturated the market too. I love the look, texture and girth of this beautiful piece. 
​
The Camille Chandelier is another light that is stealing hearts in the design world. Have been seeing this style hung over islands and dining tables, often in multiples all over the internet - especially Instagram. 

No matter what style your home is, it is important to consider a series of factors to calculate.
Size | Finish | Style | Instillation (not all lights can go in bathrooms for instance and not all can be put on a dimmer) | Lumens (how much light they will give off) | Dimmable or not. Seriously.... that's a lot & I could add more to this list to consider.
A major game changer in my own house are these LED DAYLIGHT BULBS. Not all lightbulbs are created equal and these bulbs changed the whole look and feel of several rooms for me. I love a pure light for tasks without the yellow cast and these lovelies did not disappoint.  I put bulbs like these or similar in my kitchen, bathroom and office. Tip: Always confirm the lighting requirements on your fixture before replacing your bulbs. 

​Positioning a chandelier consists of two main factors: where it will be placed in the room and its hanging height. Mounting the chandelier in the wrong spot will impact the room’s overall aesthetic – if it hangs too low, it will hinder the flow of traffic through your home; if it’s too high, the light may be too dim to be useful. When placing a chandelier in a specific room, reference the recommendations below.


Dining Room
Hanging Height: The bottom of the chandelier should hang 30" – 36" above the table.
Where to Hang: Mount the light above the middle of the table – not the middle of the room. If you have a sideboard or buffet table, your dining table is likely placed off-center in the room, so a chandelier hanging in the middle of the space will be confusing to the eye.


Above a Kitchen Island
Hanging Height: The bottom of the chandelier should hang 30" – 36" above the countertop.
Where to Hang: Center the chandelier in the middle of the island. However, if you are hanging multiple pendant lights or mini chandeliers, we recommend placing the lights 30" apart from each other along the width center line of the island. If you will have three lights, center one above the middle of the island and then hang the other two 30" apart on either side.


Entryway, Bedroom, or Living Room
Hanging Height: So no one bumps their head, always have 7' of clearance between the bottom of the chandelier and the floor. However, if your ceiling is taller than 8', mount the chandelier an additional 3" higher for every extra foot above 8'.
If you have a two-story foyer, the bottom of the fixture should hang at the same level as the second floor.
Where to Hang: If you have a large foyer, a chandelier placed over a round table will provide a bold statement. In a small entryway, the chandelier should hang in the middle of the room.


If the chandelier is being hung in your bedroom or living room, place it in the middle of the room or above a bed or coffee table. Mini chandeliers also look great hanging above nightstands (but remember the 30" – 36" rule!).


Bathroom
​Hanging Height: At least 8' above the highest point from the tub's edge.


Where to Hang: Due to strict building codes for wet environments, the chandelier must be at least 3' from the edge of the tub or shower.

Article Credit: Wayfair

Ceramic Wall Sculpture | Wall Vases | Canvas Art | Window Treatment | Upholstered Bed | Table Lamp | Bedding | Area Rug | Nightstand 

Photo Credit: ​Pantone

Keep your eyes peeled as you shop online and in person and you'll spot the two new colors of the year everywhere you go - even in the world of fashion. PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating are quite the pairing. To learn more from Pantone click ​here. 

Maybe you like to add little touches of a color to your space or maybe you are BOLD and want to dive in both feet. No matter which is your cup of tea, there are several choices on the Moodboard. 

Disclosure: Some of the shopping links attached are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. ​

Want to get a ROUND OF APPLAUSE for the stuffing you serve this year? I have the BEST stuffing recipe sure to be the perfect accessory to your Thanksgiving dinner!!!

Preheat oven to 350 degress

1 full bag of celery (you'll chop the first half of this including the leaves)
1 yellow onion (peeled and chopped)
1 small bag of carrots  (approx. 6 carrots peeled and chopped) 
1 Macintosh apple (chopped - leave skin on)
1 (16 oz) Package of sweet Italian sausage (if you can't find it loose, it's okay to buy the links and take the casings off)
1 bag of Country Style Cubed Stuffing from Pepperidge Farm
2 boxes of low sodium chicken or vegetable stock
Salt & pepper
Oil for sautéing 
Cooking spray

Cooking tools:
Large high sided skillet
9x12 Glass pan ~ Glass is better if you have it so you can confirm how deep the stock gets in the pan

Note: The vegetable and sausage mixture can be made ahead of time and assembled when you are ready. This makes it portable if you are cooking at home or at someone's house.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
1. Chop all your veggies and apple and leave on cutting board until its time to cook. Note: the greens of the celery have the most flavor to any dish. Chop those too and include them in your veggie pile.

2. In a deep skillet set to medium heat, spray with cooking spray & sauté sweet Italian sausage. While sausage is cooking, stir occasionally to break up into small pieces.

​3. When meat is lightly brown, take out of pan and set aside in the baking dish you plan to bake the stuffing in. DO NOT WASH SKILLET BETWEEN THESE STEPS.

4. add a little oil to your pan and leave at medium-low heat and add all the diced vegetables and diced apple. Sauté for approx. 10 minutes stirring constantly, but do not beat up the veggies. When onions start to look translucent, add salt and pepper to taste).

5. Add sausage back in and continue to sauté until everything is soft but not mushy. 

6. Pour half of the bag of stuffing cubes in baking pan and then add the meat & veggies and stir all together. Add remainder of stuffing in the back and stir until everything is well distributed.

7. Shake the broth and pour one cup at a time over mixture and stir. This will likely call for approx. 2-1/2 cups when you are done ~ but I like to eyeball it to judge how moist it is. Stir well. It should be fairly moist. 

8. Bake in preheated oven set to 350 for 30 minutes uncovered.