Start Small, Start Slow

I get asked about my house pretty frequently and love answering questions about it. We’ve spent several years focusing on making this space our own and still have so many projects on our list.

But hear me when I say, it takes time.

One of the lessons I’ve learned throughout the years is that you can’t rush the process. If you move into a season of re-designing your house and expect to move quickly through it, you’ll be disappointed.

My advice: move at a slow pace, focus on one room at a time, one detail at a time.

Typically I tell people to start with the basics: paint, furniture, and larger statement pieces and then go from there. Speaking from experience, if you jump into all of the small details first, you won’t make it very far before running out of steam.

If you’re thinking of updating a room, take an inventory of what you already have.

Do you need to paint the walls a new color?

Do you want to change any furniture?

Do you need a rug or curtains?

Do you need/want to change any wall décor?

Do you need to shift the layout?

Once you tackle these things, you’ll be ready for the smaller details.

*** tip for statement pieces: clocks, mirrors, chairs, shelving, and other wall décor are all good places to start.

When you’re ready for the small details, like greenery, table décor, pillows, etc., don’t forget to pace yourself.

Stick to the rules about varying heights, shapes, and sizes when you’re decorating tables and shelving. For example, try to avoid putting vases that are the same height or shape next to one another - you definitely want some variety. Work on one room, one section, one shelf at a time.

A sign in our shop says “our homes are a story of who we are and a collection of things we love” and I think it’s the best reminder when it comes to our decorating pace. Gradually you can collect the perfect pieces for your space that either serve a functional or aesthetic purpose.

It doesn’t take much. Do you have a side table in your living room? Grab a few old books, a small vase, and a piece of floral, and arrange them like the photo above. It’s simple and effective.

Have an open corner in your house? Use a basket, large vase, or planter, and some greenery to create warmth and vibrancy.

When choosing frames or wall hangings, keep in mind the size, color, and shape of your room. I tend to gravitate toward lighter, neutral frames, primarily because darker frames can feel heavier in a space. Darker frames work better on large walls in brighter rooms. Don’t be afraid to combine words and photos on your walls, like the example above.

One of the things I try to communicate to every person who sets foot in our shop is that it takes time to decorate, and we are here to help you along the way.