easy Easter decorations

I had a request for Easter decorating ideas, and these are all so easy, you don't even need directions. Just look at the picture and you'll know what to do.

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Simple dyed eggs and ribbon on this table, even a pink paper plate mixed in maybe? So easy and doable.

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Satin ribbon in pretty spring colors make a elegant and festive garland (ceramic bunny optional).

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How cute would these be for a kids table?  My Easter peeps would love them.

When I see daffodils, I think ah! spring is finally here. Just put a small jar inside the brown paper bag, add the flowers and maybe even put a name on the bag for a cute place card.

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All of these fancy (and complicated) egg decorating techniques are intimidating to me, so these simply dyed eggs with the pastel jelly beans have me at hello.

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And how elegant is this display?  Love it....but it may involve a trip to the craft store.  

Hope your Easter decorating is a cinch so you'll have time left over to eat lots of jelly beans and celebrate with your family and friends.

If you'd like help with decorating your home for Easter or any time of the year, contact me. 

How Refreshing!

Isn't it interesting how humans naturally gravitate toward certain skill sets?  I have a cute client, and at a glance, you'd think we were very similar (not to overstate my cuteness).  We have a lot in common, but what comes naturally to her (accounting!) is NOT my cup of tea. Lucky for me, decorating her home is something she needs help with, and I'm happy to offer it!

She called me because she just could not make the furniture that she had bought with her husband for a previous home work in her new house. Instead of trying to convince him that she needed all new furniture (not likely for an accountant to even try!), she instead had me over and we planned a surprise "refresher" for her family room and dining room areas.

{Here is the view when you walk into the living room from the sunporch entry room.}

{Here is the view to the left of the entryway into the living room.}

{And here is the view into the dining room.}

My client inherited some rugs and a cute chair from her grandmother's house that she wanted to try to use, and she also wanted to incorporate some of the great modern paintings done by her husband (see the orangey reddish one above), and a few pieces of art and heirlooms from her husband's family.  We also talked about a few pieces that she'd like to add, and off I went madly shopping for a few hours total to get ready for the installation day.

On Friday, I met my client at her house at 10 and told her to come back at  2:30. Once she was off, I madly started unpacking my purchases and got down to work rearranging everything. This is where personalities diverge, because for some this might sound like a painful way to spend 4 1/2 hours, but for me, it's my idea of a good time!  It was a blast, and I was so excited for her to see her new space.

The most important step was how to configure the 2 couches...sofa & loveseat.  One of the problems in the original arrangement was that there was no way to have a conversation.  The sofas were too far apart, so I created a traditional floor plan with the sofa and loveseat in an L-shaped arrangement.

Now it's easier to have a conversation, and watch TV.  My client had also asked me to purchase a kid-friendly leather chair to add to the living room seating arrangement.  I dressed things up with shimmery silk drapery panels in a deep charcoal blue color that work with the rug I borrowed from the nearby sunporch.

I love the tufted Chesterfield style on the one I found a World Market, and the copper drum side table is a perfect spot for a drink or a Lego project.

{I love how new pillows can bring life to a tired sofa.}

With the loveseat's backside now to the the entry area, there is a newly defined foyer space on that side of the room.

{the new foyer!!! I just love it!}

To further establish the foyer in the living room, I borrowed another rug from the nearby sunporch (sorry you can't see it in this picture, I'm standing on it!) and put it down on the floor right when you enter the living room. Then, I dressed up her grandmother's chair with a vintage looking pillow and set up a newly purchased simple foyer table with a new lamp, accessories, and another floor cushion for additional seating. 

One of my favorite "A-Ha" moments of the day was when I moved 2 antique paintings and this gorgeous pearl inlay table, both heirlooms from the husband's family in India, to this foyer entry nook. I love how the colors and cultures from both families blend so well here.

Hung just a few inches lower, now the husband's artwork is a gorgeous back drop for the pretty new lamp and a few kid-friendly accessories (those are gold bells on the floor...so fun, and NOT breakable).

In the dining room, new drapery panels and sheers with a pretty paisley pattern pick up the colors in the rug.  Buffet lamps add lighting and sophistication to the console table.

And chairs recovered in a modern graphic indoor/outdoor fabric will resist the stains and keep the style going.

This project was so much fun, but the best part of the day was when my client walked in at 2:30 and the changes took her breath away.  Her eyes got all teary and she said, "This is what I've wanted. I'm so happy."  Later she texted me about how thrilled and surprised her husband and kids were. That made me so happy.  I love my job, and I can't wait to spend another day like this.

If you'd like some help with a project in your home, big or small, I'd love to help.  Please contact me.

Nightstand Roundup

A nightstand truly is one of the creature comforts of modern living. It's the perfect furniture piece to collect many of your most meaningful and useful tools and trinkets. Did you know that the first nightstands were used to house (or hide!) your chamber pot? Thank goodness for indoor plumbing!

For a bedroom that gets everyday use, I recommend a nightstand with at least one drawer, so you can quickly swoop everything inside when company's coming. In a master bedroom, each sleeper needs his/her own space, but I don't think the nightstands always need to match. The room works below because the nightstands both have similar finishes and are the same height, so that the lamps and mirrors give the room a symmetrical look.

Mediterranean Bedroom design by San Francisco Interior Designer Laura Martin Bovard

For the room below, the height is slightly off, but the color and finish of the nightstands work well together, and the matching lamps framed by the windows, pull the look off nicely.

Contemporary Bedroom design by Orange County Interior Designer Jessica Bennett Interiors

If you're in the market for a nightstand to ease the transition into a good night's sleep, here are a few of my favorites.

{mid-century nightstand from west elm}

 For price, size and function, this mid-century nightstand from West Elm has it all.  It's got a lightweight look, clean lines and 2 drawers for easy access storage.

{park mirrored bedside table from pottery barn}

 I love the glamorous form and function of this beauty.

{zinc nightstand from restoration hardware}

 This nightstand is working the industrial chic vibe.  Bachelor pad? Teenage lair? Ladies, beware!

{tray bien from caracole}

This elegant beauty is from one of my favorite to the trade lines, and it's just so gorgeously detailed and walks the fine line between gender bias.

{portia from mitchell gold & bob williams}

Drawer pulls on this luxury number come in 2 finishes, and the sides reveal a signature red lacquer finish. Sexy!

{south seas side cart from serena & lily}

If I had a beach house, I'd want this cart for my nightstand. I love it's texture, and happy vibe.

{atwood nightstand from crate & barrel}

And for my house in the mountains, I'd choose this guy. He's got just enough rough and tumble, but still stays in line (like a good dog, or husband!)

If you'd like some help choosing the nightstand that suits you best, please contact me!

Pantone's Color of the Year: Emerald Green

As far as trends go, I'm usually a few steps behind, so here I am now reporting last week's big announcement.  This year's color of the year from Pantone is EMERALD GREEN.

“Green is the most abundant hue in nature – the human eye sees more green than any other color in the spectrum,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “As it has throughout history, multifaceted Emerald continues to sparkle and fascinate. Symbolically, Emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal and rejuvenation, which is so important in today’s complex world. This powerful and universally appealing tone translates easily to both fashion and home interiors."

I love how the idea of green has so many layers of meaning.  On the kinder gentler side, green can be a way of life, a way to embrace nature and a lifestyle intended to honor it. On the flipside, there's no denying that green is the color of money. Greenbacks anyone? So it makes sense that GREEN has a universal appeal.

Trend setting aside, take a look at some fun ways to add the shade into (or outside) your home this year.

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No fear of commitment here. I love the glossy finish on these green subway tiles, as well as the variation in the positioning that frames the sink.

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A front door doesn't have to be a long term commitment. That's the type of trend I like to follow.

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Bright pops of color in an otherwise neutral space seems to be rather popular as of late.

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Here's a very doable DIY project that reinvents and transforms an antique into a modern, functional piece. Rather "green" don't you think?

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Would my daughters stop fighting about sharing a room if it looked like this? If only, but I do love the height and luxe factor on these headboards.

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If this bedroom is too over the top for you, then consider these simple ideas to keep you on trend without overextending your green.

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If you'd like to incorporate your favorite color into your home, please contact me. I'd love to help!

Finding meaning in the fluff

I've been having a hard time coming back to blogging after the Sandy Hook story occurred. That tragedy hit us all so hard, as it should have, and every time I started to write something about my holiday decor or parties or presents, I just felt wrong, as if I was ignoring something that really was far more important.

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Although tragic events are never well-timed, my kids only had four days of school left before winter break, so I have spent the last few weeks at home with them savoring their energy and holiday excitement. And yes, there were lots of decorations and table settings and entertaining going on, but as I scan my camera roll the only pictures I took are of my kids....sleeping, being goofy, finishing a 5K on New Year's Day.

The Sandy Hook tragedy and my lack of desire to write about the topics I'm usually really crazy about (i.e., my house, your house, someone else's beautiful house) brought to a head something that I struggle with in this job of home decor.  Even though I don't necessarily agree, I often realize that sometimes this line of work can be construed as fluffy.

I've been thinking about this "fluff factor" a lot and it made me recall a conversation I had with a client that I ran into at a party last year. We had worked together on remodeling her family room, and in the process we decided she needed to paint and spruce up her closet and master bath. It was really just a simple project consisting of paint and replacing a few light fixtures and cabinet knobs, but she gushed about how happy she was in her new spaces. I confessed about my fear of fluff on the job front, and she completely disagreed.  She said, "I'm the CFO of a company, and I can tell you that I very rarely make people happy at my work. What you do is meaningful and helpful. I wish I could get paid to make people happy!"

This is something I really want to focus on in 2013. And it's something I truly believe. Your surroundings should inspire you and make you feel good. This gives meaning, depth and substance to the fluff factor.

From what I understand, the students from Sandy Hook will begin school next Monday, January 12 at another school within the district.  I have heard from other bloggers that their school PTA is planning to create a Winter Wonderland at the school by decorating the hallways with snowflakes made by children from all over the world.

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My kids made some over break, and it's not too late if you and/or your family would like to make some and send them out.

Send all snowflakes and donations to:  
Connecticut PTSA 
60 Connolly Parkway 
Building 12, Suite 103 
Hamden, CT 06514

For me, this project is the perfect blend of using beautiful decor to make people feel comforted and welcome. And that is meaningful fluff for sure.

Last minute gift ideas

If you're like me, you're probably entering panic mode about the remaining items that need to be checked off your list this time of year. To lend a hand, here are some of my favorite Etsy ideas. With these affordable and creative gifts, instead of coming across as frazzled and panicky (like me!), your gift reflects your composed, thoughtful and meaningful gesture.

For the Dog Lover

These adorable 5" x 7" cards from TerraDeiFarm come in a package of 6. Perfect for post holiday thank you notes!

For the Griller

We've got the World Tour Grill Master Set here from DenverSpice. 

For your dad

This cool key chain from Cjohannesen commemorates a special location with its longitude and latitude. 

For your mom

This pretty clutch by CreationsbyAngel is the perfect evening bag she never knew she needed.

For your bff

These adorable preppy wine totes from LibbieandWinston are the perfect way to say to your best friend, 

"I love you more than wine!"

Hope this helps! Remember, it's the MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! ;)

Virtual Decorating Client Project in Boston

Technology is changing the way we stay connected so much that the pace just baffles me sometimes. As someone who has moved to different cities over the course of my adult life, I love that I can connect with friends of old and keep in touch besides just an annual Christmas card. (Although I LOOOOVE getting those, so keep 'em coming!)

One thing I've really enjoyed in business is being able to help friends with their decorating projects even if they live elsewhere. For example, right now I'm working on my high school friend's ginormous house in northern Virginia. She has a son with special needs, and it has been such a wonderful experience to help her make his room match his feisty and delightful personality. It's a great way for us to stay connected, too. I'll ask her to send pictures soon, because I'm hoping she's hanging the curtains we just ordered this weekend, (right, Theo?)

{Pottery Barn Kids}

Recently, my dear friend, Laura, moved from Denver to the Boston area. She bought the most amazing house and asked me to be her virtual decorator. We FaceTimed, and it was a great way for me to receive the grand tour, and then to focus on a few areas where she needed help. The house is new construction, but it fits right in with the architecture of her adorable New England town. The finishes are deeeevine..dark hardwood floors, thick chunky white trim, lots of windows and natural light, coffered ceilings. All the style and charm of an older home, but the modern conveniences of NEW! Her builder, Rob Ticktin, (Laura calls him Rob the Builder) did an amazing job. He only builds one home a year, and you can tell because of the attention to detail.

Laura took me on a FaceTime tour, and I easily got the lay of the land. She wanted to focus on getting her main living space finished. It's in the back of the house where there is a gorgeous kitchen with an eating area opening to a family room/living room.  Laura was ready to spring for some new furniture in the family room, window treatments, and a new rug. I did a little online shopping, we talked some more, and she did the rest!

One of the things we discussed was sofa positioning and overall furniture placement.  Her fireplace is opposite the sofa, with TV above the mantle, so luckily just one focal point. Her husband is TALL, so the double chaise configuration is perfect for their family. To make the room conversation friendly, we placed 2 custom swivel armchairs in a charcoal gray on either side of the fireplace. (sorry there isn't a picture of those) Laura's red console table is a colorful backdrop for the large sofa, so it's backside isn't too overwhelming when you enter the room from the front of the house. To offset the angles, we went with a round cocktail table with a bone inlay top and open, leggy base. The pair of end tables introduce a smooth, shiny surface and tuck nicely into the wide arms of the sofa. We found an indigo striped rug with red, gray and mustardy yellow stripes to pull the subtle palette together. I love how the ikat pillows bring a new pattern into the room.

Back in May, before Laura moved, her talented photographer cousin, Anne, had her home featured on the popular blog, Little Green Notebook.  Laura and I were both inspired by how Anne created gallery walls with seemingly disparate, but meaningful collections. (Read more about that project here.) We especially loved this enlarged old family photo.

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Laura selected a photo she loves of her grandfather with his three brothers and had it blown up on canvas. We decided it would look great hung next to the new curtain panels in the eating nook. (Grandpa is 2nd to left.)

Laura's husband and daughters all play the piano, so we thought it would be fun to frame the piano with a gallery wall. Their collection includes a framed album cover, their Colorado license plate, a large Chinese watercolor from when Laura played volleyball in China, art by their children, and to add dimension and whimsy, a steel steer's head, an homage to Laura's grandfather's dairy farm. I suggested that Laura lay everything out on the floor and mix the shapes up to give it a collected but not too contrived look. I think she did a great job! Don't you?

Laura, thanks so much for sharing these fabulous after pictures. Your home is a beauty, just like you. 

If you'd like some design help, virtual or local, please contact me.