As a Decorating Professional, I meet frustrated people daily with tales of decorating hopes now dashed or gone awry- waylaid primarily by their own fears and bouts of self doubt. “I just can’t figure out why it doesn’t look homey” or “my husband wants it decorated now, but I don’t know where to start!” The common thread woven through these tales of woe is unhappiness with the present state of the room, and no fresh perspective with which to proceed.
Direction is the key! I offer you the 4 D’s of decorating! See for yourself where you may have gone wrong!
DEFINE: What is the inspiration for your room? Are you repeatedly drawn to a fabric design, color, or motif? Or, is it more about a concept or feeling you would like to create in your room. Be aware of subtle thoughts that mean you already have a preference- you just need to define it. At Magnolias, our retail store, I encourage customers to fill the room with objects they really love, instead of simply filling the room.
DEVELOP: To save time, and money, you’ll need to develop a logical plan for the order in which your project will proceed. It’s very frustrating to choose a fabulous paint color for your bedroom only to realize too late that it is an impossible aqua and matches no comforter in a three state radius! Find the key item that becomes the “Inspiration Piece” for your room which will set the tone and then choose your color palette from that.
DARE: Playing it too safe does not an inviting room make! Sometimes four matching leather furniture pieces just backfire. Instead of saying welcome it just screams “Boring!”. Interest and character in a room come from unanticipated accessory touches. Daring to add of a couple of Grandma’s 1940”s antique vases, may just give the fireplace mantle a jolt of color and become a conversation piece as well.
DELEGATE: OK, if decorating is just not your thing, and you still feel overwhelmed instead of empowered, seek professional help! The decorating task at hand could be painless with the help of an accessory specialist like myself. Give me a call for an In-Home Consultation and I’ll create a step-by step plan to help you get the ball rolling. Or, visit Magnolias, speak to one of our “Decorating Divas”, and receive helpful advice. Be inspired while you browse our many displays designed to help you see the possibilities for your home.
Take time to discover your personal preferences. Begin your plan around your inspiration piece. Be Bold! And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to delegate!
