Home Decor Trends, Tips and Decorating Ideas Blog

Holiday Home Decor

It's That Time Of Year

With Thanksgiving a week away I've talked to more people this year that already have their Christmas tree trimmed!  Years ago we made it a tradition when we got together on Thanksgiving to decorate the tree and I thought then that it was a bit early.  Well, this year I plan on decorating my tree and home for the holidays this weekend.  I'm not waiting until Thanksgiving as it seems I am always rushed.  (Guess I am beginning to show my age here) but I want to enjoy the holidays this year! 

Besides the focal point, the Christmas tree, of course, there are other holiday decorations that have really taken off over the last couple years.  The Totum Pole Snowman is a great accent piece and brings a smile to everyone that sees it.  It is festive and jolly and fits it with almost any holiday decor.  I don't know many people that do not like snowmen but in case you are one of them there are also gift boxes, angels, reindeer among a few that all light up similar to the photo shown.

Another way to bring the holiday cheer into your home is with accent rugs and are available in almost any style and design imaginable and if carefully planned can really emphasize the beauty of your flooring.  Christmas rugs are a great way for you to bring your decorations at all levels including the floor, which, is an area many people exclude when decorating for the holidays.  I will warn you now though once you place a rug or two around your home this season, you'll wonder why you never used them before. 

A really simple and low cost decoration idea I use, and one of my girls favorites is to wrap the pictures I have hanging on my walls with Christmas gift wrap that coordinates with my other decor.  

Placing a few hand towels in the bath is inexpensive and carries the holiday decor throughout your home and can easily be paired with a festive liquid soap pump.

To welcome guests you will receive over the holidays consider adding a coir mat at your front door, not only does it look good it helps keep the dirt and grime out and reminds your guests to wipe their feet.

Decorating for the holidays does not have to be a major chore and one you dread and it certainly does not have to be expensive.  By adding a few pieces at various heights you'll be able to enjoy your holiday decorations at various levels.  

Now it is time for you to turn on your favorite holiday music and start decorating.

If you have any decorating ideas that someone else may enjoy or a way to take the stress out of decorating please post a comment.

Lighting Your Home Decor

 

Now that the days are getting shorter you may be realizing that your home lighting needs an upgrade.  If your like me, I don't pay as much attention to my floor lamps or table lamps in the summer as I do when Fall arrives and it starts to get dark around 5:00!  While I love the Fall season, it is an adjustment waking up and getting to work when it is still dark out and getting home from work in the dark.  This season I have really noticed that my lamps haven't changed even though I have changed my home decor accessories.  What once was a perfect fit doesn't mesh with the elements of my room, plus I've also discovered that my lighting needs have changed and I now need a few new table lamps more apt to the task at hand. 

If you've had the same lamps in your room for awhile take another look at them and ask yourself if they fit the scheme of your decor or meet your task requirements.  If you use floor lamps are they primarily for decorative purposes or do you use the lamp for work and reading?  The floor lamps in my family room I purchased awhile back were bought only because I loved the simplicity of the design...I didn't worry about if the functionality after all it worked with my decor.  Now that I am a bit older when I sit down to relax with a good book I have found that the lamp does not meet my needs and that I don't really like the ambiance the lighting gives like I did when they were first purchased.  I don't know about you but getting rid of my lamps for something that works better is as hard as parting with a favorite pair of worn out shoes but once you get over that you will also re-discover how nice your room is and you may also experience an inner piece...which these days is an accomplishment in itself.

I'd love to hear from you, when was the last time you gave your lamps the attention they deserve?  

Decorative Wall Clocks

Do you have a wall that needs a decorative element to bring your room to life?  When designers talk about wall decor or home decorators are considering adding something to their walls, very few consider using a clock and opt for a water or oil painting or photos or another form of artwork. 

Clocks are a great accessory piece and give a functional touch to a room.  With the various shapes and sizes and design choices  available finding one that works with your decor is almost effortless.

Decorative clocks have again gained popularity because they're easier to place on a hard to decorate wall than the other forms of wall decor.  The best thing about wall clocks as an embellishment to your home is that they are easy to hang and almost everyone can do it with ease; it just takes a little bit of common sense.  If the clock is heavy try to hang it from a stud.  If the placement is not on a stud use an anchor to save yourself the repair of fixing your drywall should it go through.

If you have a large area you want to decorate, consider using a larger clock or for a unique and eclectic look you may want to try creating a grouping of clocks together.  Want to add a kitchen clock?  Again, consider using a clock with a larger face so you can easily see the time.  If you have high ceilings try adding one of the chic over sized clocks to create a focal point.  Spare bedrooms are also a great place to add a wall clock.  This room often gets neglected in what I call the additional, yet functional wall decor section.  How often have you been an overnight guest in someones home and the bedroom didn't have a clock? 

Love unusual or bold designs but afraid to use them in your decor?  A family room, den or home office is a fantastic place to add a unique wall clock.

Go ahead, have some fun, add your own personal style to your walls with of all things a clock!

Do you have other ways of using wall clocks?  Have you done something unique?  Please share your ideas!

Serveware Makes Great Hostess Gifts

With the holidays approaching I've been getting questions as to what makes a good hostess gift.  In my opinion almost anything can make a great hostess gift however if you do a little research you can easily narrow down what would be appreciated.

I tell customers and clients to think of a gift they would like to have and I always ask what the occasion is: an informal bar-b-que, a gathering to watch a sports event, dinner party or a special holiday meal.  I also try to find out if this is someone they know well or possibly a co-worker or spouse's boss.  These are important considerations when buying a hostess gift for many reasons.  You wouldn't want to take an elaborate hostess gift to someone for a get together of hamburgers and hotdogs a simpler gift like decorative napkins, a box of candy or something a long those lines are properly suited for the occasion and you won't run the risk of embarrassing the host or hostess with such a pricey gift. 

Taking expensive gifts to your boss is a bit trickier - find something nice but not overly pricey as he or she may think you only want a raise or promotion.   If you really feel compelled to buy a lavish gift consider getting a couple co-workers to go in on the gift.

If you've been invited to a friend or relatives house for Thanksgiving chances are you are pretty close and have a good idea of what they would appreciate and what they could use.  A small bowl, like the Fleur de Lis serving bowl by Arthur Court (shown in picture) is a wonderful choice as it can be used for many things, a candy dish, fruit bowl or other snacks.   Small serving trays and platters also make great gifts especially if they are unique.

I always try to give a gift I would like to receive and if I'm not sure on an appropriate gift, a bottle of wine will always do.

What's your favorite hostess gift you've received?  How do you choose what kind of gift to give?  I'd love to hear your comments and share with other readers.

It's Labor Day Weekend...are you planning for the holidays?

I know this post may upset some people that don't want to think about the holidays since it is only Labor Day weekend but after running around like a crazy person last year I made a promise to myself that this year I would enjoy the holiday season and be prepared for it, well more prepared than I was last year.

My daughter started kindergarten this year and for some reason it feels like I have less time rather then more time, crazy huh?  It's true though, she gets on her bus at 6:45 A.M.  and gets home around 3:45 P.M. Once she gets home and changed she wants to do her school work, yes, I know I am blessed, which takes about an hour and in between checking her work and chasing her younger sister I'm trying to get dinner prepared so we can eat as close to 6:00ish as possible so that the girls can play awhile and be in bed by 8:00 P.M.  The weekends are really the only time I can shop with school and work and  I don't like the crowds and heavy traffic at the shopping centers on Saturdays and Sundays and I won't even go there about the parking situations. 

Of course Fall is my favorite season, always has been, I can't get enough of the weather, love the smell of Fall and the beautiful scenery , Halloween, hanging with friends and family watching a football game or just being together and having a guilt free "eat too much" meal at Thanksgiving...now all of this doesn't give much time for preparing for the holidays which is what prompted this post and gave me a small panic attack when I realized its Labor Day and I haven't even thought about the approaching holiday season.

As I am sitting here writing I have been thinking back to the wonderful gifts I have received over the years, the sweaters, coats, jewelry and other gifts and besides giving gifts and spending time with family, my favorite gifts have been the ones I have been able to use over and over and have others enjoy as much as myself!  I hear a lot of people say, I don't need anything I have everything I need.  My mother is one that comes to the store and really likes a serving piece we just got but always says she doesn't need anything like that.  Not to long ago we were at her house and she really could have used some of the serving pieces!  So this year she's getting what I know she'll use, needs and likes.  I truly believe that when you are buying holiday gifts for family and close friends, home decor is a great choice.  I'm not talking about a couch or anything extravagant like that, but an accessory piece such as a candleholder, utensil holder, paper towel holder, cake plate or decorative boxes is a fantastic choice.   I even think lamps make a great present I gave my sister a couple for Christmas about 10 years ago and she still has them, I think it's time she has some new ones.  When you start thinking about the people on your gift list make some mental notes about what they could use or what would look good in their home and if you are afraid to buy them something for their decor have them make a wish list where you could select from their list and give the perfect gift. 

Collegiate Entertaining with Style

This morning after getting my daughter on her school bus at 6:45 A.M. I had time to go back home for a few minutes of "me time".  Well that me time lasted about two seconds since the dishwasher needed unloaded and my kitchen counter top looked like a war zone since I had to pack her school lunch with what she wanted.  While I was cleaning my kitchen it hit me all of a sudden that college football would soon be in full swing and if I wanted to have friends over I'd have to use my "same ole" serving pieces for chips and other appetizers which is not how I would want to have a party!!

Living in Alabama, you are either an Alabama fan or Auburn fan... nothing else matters.  I have to confess I don't watch much football and I admit I don't have a favorite Alabama team or any other college favorite, although since I graduated from the University of Maryland the "Terps" would  be my number 1 choice. 

I guess I'll get an Alabama chip and dip bowl to have when friends come over during the football season and maybe a few other collegiate pieces like a trivet or a pilsner glass and mix it up with some everyday kitchen decor and serving pieces.

If you're planning to throw a college football party "wow" your guests by serving them your favorite dips and appetizers in collegiate serving bowls or better yet throw a party where everyone brings a dish and just transfer that to your college serving bowls.  Collegiate serving pieces also make great gifts and can be used for any occasion...not just football parties.  Have fun & enjoy!!

Kitchen Islands for Added Work Space

Create More Usable Workspace in your Kitchen

A question we get a lot from clients is how to create more workspace in their kitchens without it affecting the overall look of their kitchen. 

Many kitchens today have an open feel overlooking the family room or living room  which is great for keeping an eye on your family or carrying on conversations but it also creates a challenge for more workspace.  Kitchen Butlers or Islands are a great way to instantly add  extra workspace and for storing kitchen essentials.  There is a wide variety of styles and designs to choose from making it easy to find one that will coordinate with your current kitchen decor.   Some of the kitchen islands also have wood butcher block tops and wine bottle holders...just add a bar stool or two and you've got yourself a multi-functional kitchen island and gathering table (perfect if you do not have an eat-in area in your kitchen and would like a place to sit and drink your morning coffee.  Depending upon your needs, kitchen islands are available with casters to easily move from place to place while other islands have the look and feel of custom cabinetry with plenty of open and hidden storage. 

The Black Butcher Block Kitchen Island (shown) is a great choice for any kitchen with it's black and natural wood colors giving it a more contemporary look.  Priced at just under $600.00 this kitchen island measures 48" L making it a good choice for smaller kitchens and apartments.  A unique kitchen island is the Rustic Light Walnut Kitchen Island, measures 34.5" L and is also priced just under $600.00, a great addition considering this island features a butcher block top, turned legs and a hammered metal shelf for hanging kitchen utensils.  Looking for something smaller?  A popular choice is the 26" Color Story Island due to its functional butcher block top and smaller size...priced at just under $300.00 makes it great for college apartments or any kitchen with limited space.

If you've been wanting more workspace for your kitchen or simply want a focal point or extra seating in your kitchen an island is a great option. 

Have questions?  Need suggestions?  Post a comment and I'll answer shortly.

Lay-A-Way Now Available For Your Home Decor

  We are excited to announce our new lay-away plan making it easier to get the home decor accessories and pay over time!  Our layaway plan requires no minimums and no fees and you get to choose how long you want your layaway plan to be up to 6 months!

In an effort to make it possible for our customers to get products they desire for their home we are delighted to offer this service that will be easier on their budgets.   

Whether your looking for Home Lighting, Accent Furniture, Wall Decor,  Kitchen Serveware or a Special Gift you can now select what you want add it to your shopping cart and choose layaway as your payment option and Decorative Visions will contact you within 48 hours to set up your payments...it couldn't be easier!  You will receive a payment schedule letting you know when payments will be deducted you won't need to remember to send a payment we'll take care of that for you.  At the end of the payment period your order will be shipped to you.

We hope you'll enjoy our new payment plan where you can buy and pay over time for the things that will make your home more relaxing.

View Layaway Plan.

Summer Colored Hand Painted Canister Set

  The Primavera Canister Set designed by artist April Cornell features a delicate color palette with soft shades of green and pink with highlights of yellow.

The three piece earthenware canisters with their floral designed bodies are completed with a single butterfly on the canister lid and a flower finial making them the perfect accessory to soften your home decor for summer. 

In addition to their traditional kitchen use these canisters also bring a hint of the tropics to your bathroom counter tops and are perfect for storing cotton balls, soap or other bath essentials. 

With their traditional floral design and soft color scheme, the Primavera canisters make a nice focal point on a side table or china hutch.

If you want to add a fresh floral arrangement use one of the canisters as a container while placing the other two canisters around the room or carry out the color theme by placing another of the canisters in a guest bath or bedroom.

Ceramic canisters with a decorative design make a great addition to your home decor whether you place them in your kitchen or use as a decorative accent in your bedroom, bathroom or living room.  The possibilities are endless with your imagination.

Princess Castle Tent Bunk Bed

Imagine how much she'll love her bedroom with this tent bunk bed fit only for a Princess!

If you are looking for away to give your little princess a room she'll love to play in this bed will be a hit, not to mention how much fun she'll have showing it off to her friends. 

The Princess Castle Tent Bunk Bed with Slide includes a tent over twin bed and a covered hiding place below. The top of the slides is tented with a Princess Tower with peek through, fold down window covers. Finished in White Powder Coat with Purple & Pink Microfiber fabric tent- 100% polyester.  The Princess Castle Tent Twin Bunk Bed uses a standard  twin mattress (not included).

This is the perfect solution for any size room as it gives a really "cool" place to hide and play and store her favorite toys while keeping them hidden under the hiding place below.  

I don't think you'll have much trouble getting your Princess ready for bedtime now with her very own castle bed. 

What Do You Prefer In Outdoor Furniture: Wicker, Aluminum Or Teak?

  So... What's Your Style?

I'd like to ask a favor...we are expanding our line of outdoor furniture and to better serve our customers we'd like to get your input as to what kind of outdoor furniture you prefer? 

In addition to the articles and tips found on the blog - I really want to get to know the readers and hear your thoughts.  When we are considering expanding a line we strive to bring products that people want not just what we think they want. 

So if you would not mind taking a minute to tell me if what kind of outdoor furniture you prefer that would be fantastic and I'd be ecstatic to hear from you.  For your time and effort I'll personally send a special message to you with a savings coupon to use anyway you choose.  Simply post a message to this post and tell me your preference and what you'd like to see us bring...that way the articles, and products offered at Decorative Visions are centered around your wants and desires.