Search Results for: fashion style

Creating The Perfect Holiday Gift Basket

November 26, 2016

Hi friends! I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving and survived all of the Black Friday madness. I woke up with the chickens yesterday morning and popped into a few stores. I’m happy to say that I was able to snag a couple of really great deals (for the hubby) but sadly I didn’t get anything crossed off my Christmas gift list 🙁 Oh well, I still have 28 more days to get my shopping done, right?!

Yesterday I mentioned my 30 Days of Holiday series. I’ve been doing this series for a couple of years and I’m excited to bring it to you again this year. From now until Christmas Eve I’ll be sharing loads of holiday inspiration with you including the 2016 Merry & Bright Holiday Home Tour. This is the second year for the tour and over next 3 weeks I’ll be joining an awesome group of bloggers to share our fun and festive holiday homes with you. Stay tuned because the tour starts Wednesday, Dec. 30th.

Today I’ve got a fun post, all about holiday gift baskets. During the holidays, gift baskets can be a fun gift to give especially for that hard-to-buy-for person. I also thing gift baskets are great for family gifts too. If you’re looking for a creative gift, follow these tips that will help you create the perfect holiday gift basket.

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CREATE A THEMED BASKET

It’s easy to build a themed gift basket if you think about the hobbies and activities someone loves. Fill a basket with art supplies for someone who love to draw or paint. Or create a book lovers basket filled with new books, a throw blanket and a pretty tea-cup. A holiday themed gift basket can be just about anything you can think of so let your imagination soar.

via Style Me Pretty

USE A FUN & FUNCTIONAL CONTAINER

One of the things I love most when creating a gift basket is finding a unique container. Any item that can hold things is an option for a container. How about a vintage urn filled with a candle, design magazines and small decorative tray for someone who loves design? Or stuff a pair of cozy slippers with beauty products as a ‘pamper yourself’ gift basket. When I’m building a basket, I always find my container first and then find items to fill it.

via Vitamin-Ha

FILL YOUR BASKET WITH FUNCTIONAL and FUN ITEMS

What you put in a gift basket is key to making it great. Fill your container with a mix of functional items, fun items and something unexpected. If I were creating a gift basket for a man I might use a leather tray as the container and fill it with socks, beer and a collection of movies or video games. And if my basket was for someone who loves fashion, I’d fill a cute tote bag with jewelry, a scarf and fashion magazines.

via Style Me Pretty

USE A DECORATIVE FILLER TO FILL YOUR BASKET

Once you have your container use a fun filler to prop your gift items up. Mix metallic and plain shredded paper or use fabric and linens in a food or drink basket. And I love using wrapped candy like peppermints to fill a basket at Christmas.

tip: create your own shred by running colored paper through your home paper shredder

via One Kings Lane

ADD A SWEET TREAT

Don’t forget to add a sweet treat to your gift basket. Put candy canes in a cocktail themed basket (they can be used as drink stirs) or add a jar of holiday chocolates to a baking themed basket.

via Style Me Pretty

PUT A BOW ON IT

Naturally if you want to hide the contents of your basket you’ll need to wrap it in a decorative bag or paper. If not, tie a bow around some of the items or on the container to make it festive. And don’t get a fun gift tag to finish it off.

via Craftberry Bush

source unknown

Better Home and Gardens

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I hope these gift basket tips and ideas will be helpful with your holiday gift shopping. As always, thanks for stopping by… & happy gift-giving!

Winter Scarves From Nordstrom (budget friendly finds)

November 9, 2016

I woke up yesterday morning and it was down right frigid outside. The warm weather trend is definitely over and the cool, crisp air of fall is here to stay. One of my go-to fashion accessories when the weather turns cool is a scarf. I am always cold and a scarf adds just the right layer of warmth around my neck and shoulders.

When I was cleaning out my closet in early spring, I tossed a few of my scarves that had seen better days. Now I’m in the market for a couple of new scarves that will work as transitional pieces from fall to winter.

Nordstrom always has a great selection of scarves and I always find what I’m looking for. A recent search of their website served up some great options, most of which are priced between $25.00 and $50.00. And here’s a great tip if you’re looking for fashion scarves on a budget–shop the Brass Plum department. Brass Plum is a shop aimed primarily for juniors but their accessory items are perfect for any fashionista, regardless of your age.

Let’s go scarf shopping shall we…

No. 1 — This Abstract Print Cashmere & Silk Scarf is the most expensive scarf ($99) in my group but I just love the blue and white marble swirl pattern. It’s the perfect scarf to wear with jeans and sweaters.

No. 2 — Navajo prints are a hot trend right now and the Atlas Scarf is a classic take on the design style. This will look great with a chunky sweater, slim jean and ankle boots.

No. 3 — The Fantasy Brushstroke Scarf is another abstract pattern that looks like a piece of artwork. I adore the pink and red color combo and would style this with a denim dress and tights.

No. 4 — If you love graphic patterns, you’ll love this Geo Pattern Woven Square Scarf . This is the perfect piece to pair with a wool coat or quilted vest.

No.5 — I love the grey, ivory and yellow in this Stripe Plaid Scarf and the $29 price makes it even more attractive. I’m definitely going picking this one up.

No.6 — I own this Reversible Scarf and love the two patterns because it like two scarves in one. The scarf is oversized and a little thicker than the others so it works as a great outer layer when a coat is too much.

No. 7 — Have you noticed all the navy clothing in stores for fall and winter? This navy and grey Colorblock Woven Scarf has a classic design and the lightweight fabric makes it really versatile for layering.

No. 8 — I’m all about scarves with all-over patterns and love this Vintage Garden Scarf. This is another one I’ll be adding to my wardrobe.

With an ever-growing scarf collection, I’m on the hunt for a new way to organize and store them while reducing wrinkles and keeping them visible. Here are a few ideas from Pinterest that I’m inspired by.

via

purchase swing arm hanger here

via

purchase similar over-the-door rack here

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purchase similar swing arm door rack here

I hope you’ve found one or two new scarves to add to your wardrobe. Happy shopping!

*Some affiliate links are used in this post which help support this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting ConfettiStyle!

Behind The Blog: Steve McKenzie’s

October 28, 2016

Like many friendships today, my friendship with Steve and Jill McKenzie started through social media. We connected with each other on Instagram and eventually had the pleasure of meeting in person a couple of years ago. I first met Steve on a visit to their beautiful home decor and gift store and then Jill at a design conference here in Atlanta. Since then our paths have crossed on many occasions including the Black Southern Belle Atlanta Tastemaker Summit where we both had the pleasure of conducting workshops.

Before I jump into the Behind The Blog Q & A with Steve and Jill, let me tell you a bit about them and their business.

Steve McKenzie’s is a high-end home decor, furniture and gift store located on the edge of the trendy Westside Design District. Their retail business opened in 2012 and continues to thrive with an ever-expanding product assortment. Their product offering ranges from statement furniture to home accessories to a wide-range of tabletop items and paper goods. You’ll also find textile designs that are derived from the canvases of Steve’s artwork and handmade items from southern artisans. Steve McKenzie’s also serves as the Southeast showroom for the french furniture maker Grange Furniture. Along with their retail business, they have a full service interior design business, McKenzie Design, where they create personalized spaces for their clients.

Steve McKenzie’s has been published in Atlanta Homes and Lifestyle, and has been recognized by other national publications, including House Beautiful and Traditional Home for curation of the businesses’ showroom. The inception of the interior design and home décor businesses have since parlayed into product line design, an upholstery collection, a line of rugs through Verde Home and women’s fashion with a stunning line of scarves.

“To us, a memorable space features layers of new items mixed with timeless treasures–objects that tell a story. Spaces like these encourage comfortable living and great conversation.” –Steve McKenzie

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Now its time to go Behind The Blog for my chat with Steve and Jill…

Both of you have backgrounds in retail and home furnishings so it only seems natural that you’d own a retail store. Tell us a little about Steve Mckenzie’s and what types of items and services shoppers can expect to find in the store.

Shoppers can expect to find unexpected treasures, big and small. Folks need to make several loops around the store to take in all the layers, everything from home décor to jewelry to unique pottery, also furniture, pillows, and tabletop. Shoppers can expect a warm greeting, an offer to gift-wrap their perfect gift, and perhaps a pick-me-up espresso.

Many people may not know that much of the artwork and textiles you carry in the store is created by Steve. Tell us about Steve’s art and what inspires his work.

SM— I painted for nearly 30 years. I am an intuitive abstractionist who enjoys exploring making marks which lead to other marks until the painting is complete. I do not start with a preconceived idea of what a painting should look like. Colors in nature and interesting lines inspire me to make these marks.

In addition to your retail and design business, you also write a blog. Tell us about the blog and what readers can expect from your posts.

Our blog covers design, art, life, leaving us pretty open to what catches our attention. We enjoy book reviews on favorite art books; Tastemaker Tuesday posts on talented designers, artists, creatives; entertaining tips and recipes. Hopefully we inspire! We enjoy sharing our passion for entertaining, books, travel and design. We also love to share our Tastemaker stories from friends, new and old, who inspire us and we plan on featuring ConfettiStyle soon!

How would you describe your personal design style?

Personally, we hope we convey our international style. We love the antiques combined with modern and a very storied interior with objects collected from travels and which have personal meaning. I hope our style is comfortable, approachable and infused with stories.

Where do you find your design inspiration?

Design inspiration comes from so many sources! Definitely magazines, especially international design magazines. My current favorite is Cabana from England. Instagram and Pinterest inform me quickly. My biggest inspiration comes from museums, a painting that has a particular color palette or combination of textures. Right now, it is the Arte Povera movement of Italy which is informing my color palettes.

If you could live anywhere other than Atlanta, where would it be and why?

SM -Paris, hands down! When I was the CEO of a multinational Berkshire Hathaway company, I traveled the globe and my heart always returned to Paris. The number of museums, the respect for the historical yet the love of the modern, the beauty of the architecture. The French government has a policy with artists to manage the estates which has encouraged many magnificent mini-museums to happen. (Rodin museum). You can explore for a lifetime and find inspiration at every corner.

JM- Indianapolis. Besides being my hometown, Indy is a delightful blend of culture, practicality (the city is divided east to west by Meridian Street and by north and south by Washington Street…its a grid system marked in miles instead of blocks), art (IMA, Eiteljorg Museum , Herron School of Art and Design) and fun (Indy 500 and the largest Children’s Museum in the world).

In addition to being married, the two of you have a great working relationship—How do you balance your personal and professional life?

We respect each other’s ideas and opinions, and it’s a team effort. Always.

You hosted an entertaining workshop at the Southern C Summit earlier this year—what three tips can you give us for setting a beautiful party table?

Keep a well-stocked tabletop closet so you have these items at the ready.
Relax. Your guests will be understanding and enjoy the event if you are relaxed.
Be unorthodox. Use the unexpected. It makes the table and conversation more interesting. For example, a rug runner or quilt makes a great table topper. {I couldn’t agree more}

If you could lunch with any famous couple, who would it be and what burning question would you want to ask them?

Charles and Ray Eames–They so influenced American design through their art and products, their logos, branding work, interior design. We would just like to know how they did it.

I always like to throw a quirky question into the mix so tell us about your favorite things…

Steve’s Favorite Color: Paprika
Steve’s Favorite Decorative Accessory: A classic bust
Steve’s Favorite Design Book: It changes constantly but right now it’s Ken Fulk’s new book, “Ken Fulk’s Magical World”. It inspires me to create magic for my design clients.
Steve’s Favorite Southern Food: cornbread-my grandfather’s recipe that I make in our “cornbread only” iron skillet, handed down from my grandfather.

and now it’s Jill’s turn…

Jill’s Favorite Color: Periwinkle
Jill’s Favorite Decorative Accessory: unusual baskets
Jill’s Favorite Design Book: currently enjoying My Stylish French Girlfriends book
Jill’s Favorite Southern Food: my father-in-laws biscuits

Personally and professionally, share a few items on your bucket list?

Thanksgiving Day parade in NYC {me too!}
Round Top in Texas {Steve & Jill, you’re going to love it}
Paris runway show
Falling Rock Visit

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Wow, what a truly inspiring and talented couple they are. Thank you so much Steve and Jill for giving all of us a glimpse into your life and business.

If you live in Atlanta, I encourage you to visit their beautiful store. To learn more about Steve McKenzie’s stop by their website and connect with them on social media ( Instagram // Facebook // Pinterest // Twitter). To follow their blog, head here.

Steve McKenzie’s, 999 Brady Ave NW #1, Atlanta, GA 30318

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This is the last installment of the year for the Behind The Blog Series. I’m lining up a fantastic group of designers, bloggers and creative talents to share in 2017. Until then, enjoy all of the 2016 features all over again…

Behind The Blog: J. Schoenberger Designs

Behind The Blog: Erika Ward Interiors

Behind The Blog: Thistlewood Farms

Behind The Blog: Bliss At Home

Behind The Blog: Dwell By Cheryl

Becoming An Expert Flea Market Shopper (5 books to own)

September 20, 2016

One of the things I love most in life is shopping flea markets. There is something exciting about looking for a hidden treasures amongst piles of dirty, dusty and cast-off relics.

Shopping flea markets isn’t something I’ve done all my life, I’ve only been treasure hunting for about the last 6 or 7 years. In that time I think I have become pretty savvy at vintage shopping, partly because I’ve taken the time read about, study and research the craft.

If you love flea market shopping and want to learn how to find the best collectibles and vintage pieces, I have 5 books I recommend you read. All of these books are filled with valuable tips on what to look , how to tell if an item has value and they highlight the best flea markets around the country.

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Because I’m a big fan of Better Homes and Gardens books, Flea Market Decorating was the first ‘thrifting’ book I purchased. Included in this book is a state-by-state listing of flea markets and antique fairs and well as tips on refurbishing your vintage finds. There is also loads of decorating ideas using real room settings with actual vintage items. The cover alone should entice you!

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I stumbled upon Flea Market Secrets in a thrift store and gave it my usual flip through to get a feel for the images. One of the best things about this book are the 10 Golden Rules of shopping flea markets that the author outlines. The rules are tried-and-true and things you’ll want to employ no matter where you shop. I also like that there are chapters dedicated to different types of items like glass, furniture, textiles and jewelry. Each chapter give you in-depth information on what types of items to buy, what to pass up and how to care for your treasures. You’ll also find the authors favorite flea markets around the world from Paris to Round Top, Texas.

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I remember when Lara Spencer first announced that she was writing a book of thrifting–I was so excited. I’m a big fan of Lara’s, have watched all her HGTV shows and love her design (and fashion) style. Her book, I Break For Yard Sales is one of the best out there and I love the fact that it combines flea market and thrifting tips with great design advice and inspiration. Page after page Lara shares her passion form shopping yard sales, thrift stores, estate sales and flea markets. You’ll learn her bargain hunting secrets and get insight from appraisers on what to look for when shopping.

You gotta love that Lara isn’t above dumpster diving for a treasure!

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Lara’s second book, Flea Market Fabulous expands upon her flea market shopping tips by showcasing nine rooms that have been decorated with thrifted pieces. The book walks you through the entire process of decorating with vintage finds, from creating a design plan to building a mood board. I also love the room illustrations and before and after photos of the DIY transformations Lara and her team pull off.

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And finally, my list of inspirational flea market shopping books would not be complete without Eddie Ross’ amazing book Modern Mix. When you want to take you flea market and antique shopping to the next level, this is the book that will guide you. Throughout the 8 chapters of the book you’ll find beautiful images of chic interiors, table settings, bars and parties created using vintage pieces. And along with sharing his secrets to shopping, Eddie will teach you how to expertly combine colors and pattern, mix old and new & curate a high and low mix within your decor.

“Modern Mix cracks the code to navigating thrift shops, yard sales and flea markets with confidence.”

And of course I had to share a few of my flea market shopping tips with you:

Have a list of items you’re looking for but be flexible. Shopping flea markets can be overwhelming and you can easily get side-tracked so it’s a good idea to have a list of ‘must have’ items to keep you focused.
Let your creativity flow. Whenever I’m out treasure hunting, I always stop and think about an item I’m interested in. I think about the different ways I could use it in my decor or how I could transform it into something else. Many of the items you’ll find shopping won’t be a perfect fit but with a little creativity and work they can be become real gems.
If you love it, buy it. We’ve all been there–spotting an item but then giving it too much thought and passing it by. Then we have buyers regret and go back hoping the piece is still there but sadly it’s not. I learned early in the game that if you love it and it fits your budget and needs then get it.
Negotiate. Flea market and vintage shop dealers are used to bargaining so don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. And remember the more items you buy from one dealer, the better your bargaining strength.

For even more flea market shopping tips, read my 10 Tips for Shopping Flea Markets Like a Pro post.

Happy hunting friends.

**this post contains affiliate links

Book Review: In The Company Of Women

August 26, 2016

Marian Wright Edelman said, ‘You can’t be what you can’t see.’ My goal with this book is to provide inspiring and relatable examples of women running their own businesses, so that any woman, anywhere, can open to a page and see herself reflected.”

–Grace Bonney, Author of In the Company of Women

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Read the Post

SEVEN things I’d by during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

July 25, 2016

Hey there friends. Sorry I skipped out last week here on the blog but things have been extra busy and I just didn’t have time (or energy) to complete all the blog post I had planned for you. My busy schedule included 5 days at the Atlanta Gift and Home Furnishings show followed by two days at the Blog Life University Conference and I’m tuckered out. I’ll be sharing more about the gift show and the conference later this week but today I’m sharing one of my favorite shopping events of the year, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

When I lived in Seattle, I actually planned a couple of vacation days around the sale so I could be at the flagship store the day the sale went live. I didn’t want to miss out on any of the deals. Now I shop my local Nordstrom or when I don’t want to deal with the crowds, I hit their website. That’s just what I did Saturday afternoon while I crashed on the couch.

There are so many great items in this years sale but a few really caught my eye and I just had to share them with you.

Here are my top picks from the sale…

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A classic backpack is a handbag staple in my book. They are great for traveling and weekend shopping when you want your hands free. I love the sleek lines of this Sole Society Ellie Backpack and the tassel charm on the flap. And you can’t beat the $29.90 price.

Cardigans are my go-to fashion item during fall and this Halogen Cashmere Kimono Cardigan has so much going for it. I love the oversized fit, the soft drape and the fact that is it cashmere. This piece is available in three colors and is on sale for $98.90. ($148 after sale)

I never met a tassel I didn’t like, especially if it’s an earring. These Sole Society Tassel Earrings are such fun and will look great with sweaters this fall. $36.95

The combination of the cord necklace and crystal pendant is what caught my eye. This is a perfect piece to wear day-to-night and with everything from jeans to dresses. Bauble Bar Bijoux’ Pendant Necklace $42.00

I’ve been wanting this Jonathan Adler Zebra Porcelain Stacking Dish for ages and couldn’t pass up the $15.90 price and my new favorite color, navy. The gold version is also available but at a higher price.

In addition to clothing and shoes, you can find some great home decor items in the Nordstrom Sale. This Levtex Diamond Straw Basket is perfect to hold blankets or just about anything you want. $38.90 Available in natural & navy and natural & tan.

An oversized sweater and jeans is the perfect fall outfit in my book. This Halogen Ribbed Cashmere Poncho has a great shape and subtle ribbed texture. Available in 4 colors. $148.90

So now that I’ve got you ready to do some shopping, here are some tips I’ve learned from shopping the sale for many years…

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Insider Tips For Shopping The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Shop early! I can’t stress this enough. Many items will sell out within the first few days of the sale so plan to do your shopping early. p.s. this years sale ends on Aug. 4th.

Did you know that Nordstrom has personal stylist to help you shop? This free service is great if you’re needing special pieces or want pulling together outfits. You can schedule an appointment or ask for an available stylist when you’re at the store. p.s. the stylist have all the inside tips on products and can often find items that are sold out in your area.

For even better deals than you can find in the main for jewelry and accessory department, shop the Brass Plum department. You can find the latest styles and designs at a fraction the price. This tassel handbag didn’t make my top 7 list but is definitely a great buy.

If you’re stocking up on fall clothing, purchase the items you’re interested in, take them home to try on them on and return what you don’t want. The dressing rooms are typically crowded during the sale so take items home so you can try them on in the comfort and space of your own bedroom.

If your local store doesn’t have the size or color you want, a Nordstrom sales person can order the item for you at no shipping cost.

Nordstrom offers samples of almost any beauty product in store every day. During the Anniversary Sale you’ll find limited-edition offerings, plus 300 beauty and fragrance exclusives so just ask for a sample at the counter.

Think Christmas gifts. This is a great time to buy higher priced items and save a little money, especially on handbags, footwear and mens clothing.

Happy shopping!

Design Guide: Color Rules

July 11, 2016

I hope everyone had an ok weekend. I know that with all the turmoil going in these days, it’s hard to find a sense of peace and calm. One way I did that was not watching the news and spending time doing things I enjoy. Sometimes it the simple things in life that can brighten our day. Anyhow, todays post is all about color and decorating, two things that definitely impact your world.

Last week as part of my Design Guide series, I talked about picking the right paint finish. Several of you asked for tips on starting at ground zero and picking the right paint colors for your home. Last year I shared 4 tips to picking paint colors with you and today I’m going a little deeper and talking about Color Rules. I think giving you a better understanding of colors will help you have more confidence in selecting colors for your home.

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♦ Start with a color you love. Are there colors you consistently wear in your wardrobe? Or maybe every time you see emerald green pillows you heart flutters. Take note of what colors you have a positive response to and those that make you feel good. These are the colors (or color families) that you will fee most comfortable with in your décor.

my domaine

♦ Once you hone in on the colors you like, keep in mind the feeling that specific colors will convey. Warm colors like red, yellow and orange have an energizing effect and will feel more vibrant. Blue, green and gray are calming colors and will add provide a soothing feel to the rooms you decorate.

via bhg

via ralph lauren

♦ When it comes to pairing colors use a color wheel to guide you in picking color families that work best together. Colors close together on the color wheel are analogous and will make a room feel calm. Colors that are farther apart are complementary and are more dramatic when paired together.

Here’s an example of an analogous color scheme…

via apartment therapy

And here’s an example of a complementary color scheme…

via Laurel Bern Interiors

♦ In open floor plans where rooms open on to each other and avoid choosing radically different colors and color families or the space will look choppy and disconnected.

source unknown

♦ If you find a color that you love but you feel it is too dark, ask the paint counter to do a 50 percent tint of the color.

♦ One of the best color rules to follow is layer bold colors with mid-tones and neutrals to create balance within the room.

via hgtv–Photo By: Allison Corona Photography, Let It Shine Photography, Doug Petersen Photography

♦ If you love bold colors but don’t want to overwhelm a room by painting all the walls in that colors, pull those colors in through decorative trims on chairs, curtains or pillows. Small doses of vibrant colors can be easier on the eye and you won’t tire of the color as easily.

via Society Social

♦ Always sample the paint colors you are considering and try them on your walls. Look at the color in the morning and at night and put test swatches near your furniture. I just started using these ingenious paint sample boards with clients and boy oh boy are they great way to try colors on the wall without damaging your current wall color.

via Elle Decor

♦ As you consider the color for your walls, make sure to also consider the trim and ceiling color to make sure it all works together. White trim color can reflect or absorb the tones of your wall color and in some cases make it look brighter or duller.

via bhg

Selecting the right colors for your home is just as important as selecting your accessories so spend the time it takes to find the right the colors that brighten your world and your home.

I’ll be back tomorrow with a fun gift wrap inspiration post using two of my favorite color combinations.

top paint image via bhg

Behind The Blog: Erika Ward Interiors

July 8, 2016

Today I’ve got another edition of my Behind The Blog series. This time around I talking with my friend and fellow-designer, Erika Ward of Erika Ward Interiors and BluLabelBungalow blog.

I’ve been a big fan of Erika and her design work for years and have been honored to contribute articles to her successful blog, on several occasions.

Erika’s career as a designer started after years of working for a design-build firm and she eventually made the leap and started building her independent design business, Erika Ward Interiors.

In addition to her blossoming design career which includes features in national publications and brand partnerships, Erika is a wife and mother to 5 adorable kids. I’m continually in awe of how she does it all.

I posed few questions to Erika to learn more about her design philosophy, where here inspiration comes from and how she does it all.

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How did you get into the interior design profession and when did you start Erika Ward Interiors?

I began my career as an accountant managing multi-million dollar construction budgets for an internationally known design-build firm. In 2006, while still working in a corporate setting, I bravely started Erika Ward Interiors to satisfy my creative side and brought my business acumen and professionalism to the residential market. After three years of performing this balancing act I decided to fully commit to building Erika Ward Interiors and never looked back.

What do you love most about being an interior designer?

I love the newness of each project and working closely with individuals. Getting to know them and their family intimately helps me feel like we have a more authentic relationship.

We’d love to learn more about your design philosophy so tell us what design elements you think every home needs?

Every home needs a combination of something old and something new otherwise each room feels like a furniture showroom. That’s not exactly the look I want to bring. While I certainly want the room to feel polished, it also has to feel livable and approachable.

Where do you find your inspiration?

I find inspiration in client’s stories (career, travel, family history etc) and how they live in their home. I’m also fascinated with learning about different cultures. It’s important to me that we open our minds and even “try on” a few of their customs. I bring more depth and richness into our own lives.

How would you describe your personal design style?

The foundation of my personal style is very traditional. I love classic silhouettes paired with bright color or pattern on upholstery. Mix this with clean lines and a few organic elements like teak, woven textures, or weathered wood and I’m sold.

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?

My late grandparents were incredibly business savvy. I admire them both for establishing themselves during a time where it was much more difficult for African-Americans. They always stressed the economic importance of time and money, I’ve written about this on my own blog, and they always encouraged me to work as I’m working for Christ himself and not men.

In addition to Erika Ward Interiors, you also have a popular design blog, BluLabelBungalow. Tell us how you came up with that name and what readers can expect from your blog post.

I came up with the name after purchasing our first house, a Cape Cod style bungalow in 2005. In the beginning I wrote about the intersection of fashion and interior design and was obsessed with Ralph Lauren’s Blue Label collection. I pretty much dropped the e, combined the two words and added bungalow.

The blog has evolved since then to show before and after makeovers from my client projects, trend reports, decorating advice, travel features, and most recently started a series called “Devotions for the Decorator.”

You’re a mom of 5, a wife and a business owner—can you share 3 pieces of advice for other working moms out there?

Yes!!

Create a village of people who love your family and support your journey. We have caregivers who love our children so much which gives my husband and I a piece of mind. We can work without the worry.

Make time for self-care. I’ve recently lost 55lbs in an effort to preserve my health and no longer take it for granted. The physical transformation also came with great, unexpected mental and emotional benefits too. I’m not only healthier but I’m certain it has made me an even better wife and mother.

Pray everyday, several times a day. This helps you stay connected to your purpose, stay grateful, remain humble, and provides you with the strength you need to handle life’s toughest issues.

If you could lunch with any famous woman, who would it be and what burning question would you want to ask them?

I’d love to have lunch with Ivanka Trump. I admire the balance she strikes between career and motherhood as well as her presence as a wife. On a superficial level, she’s always very poised, polished, and modestly dressed.