ConfettiStyle

Your Guide For Stylish Living

DESIGN PLAN: Tuscan Dining Room

I had the pleasure of creating a design plan for a young couple who have just purchased their first home.  The goal for the dining space was to merge his traditional style with her love for rustic yet refined decor.  They both love natural rooms with pops of color and wanted the overall feel of the dining room to be warm and inviting.

After dissecting their design styles, I came up with the theme, Tuscan Dining.  My vision was rich, warm colors with a mix of dark and light wood tones.  I also envisioned a mix of classic and transitional furniture, colorful textiles and lots of texture.

 

Tuscan Themed Dining Room Design Plan by ConfettiStyle

TUSCAN DINING ROOM:  Design Details

No.1 & No. 5–A traditional dining room set will work best for this couple who loves to entertain.  The oval table maximizing seating and helps with the traffic flow in and out of the room. The dark wood stain on the table adds depth and contrast against the lighter tones in the room.

No.2–To bring in a more modern touch, I suggested an upholstered settee for one side of the dining table.  This larger piece of furniture will add softness to the room and can easily be moved to other areas of the home when needed.

No. 3–All of the lighting for this dining room is in a bronze finish which adds even more warmth to the space.  The chandelier has lots of curves to it which create visual movement for the eye.   And if the couple wants an even more traditional feel they could add shades to each arm.

No. 4–These patterned drapes are the wow factor in the room.  The all-over damask pattern have a traditional vibe but the bold colors will help the room maintain a sense of playfulness.  I also like that the drapery pattern/colors will give the couple lots of options when it comes to accessorizing.

No.6–A sleek round mirror over the rustic sideboard keeps the wall decor statement simple.  Plus a round mirror has a more modern feel than a rectangular design.

No.7–Instead of lamps, wall sconces are another way to add lighting to a dining room and expand the wall decor statement above a buffet. These double arm sconces will provide ample lighting and visually draw the eye up.

No.8–I love a neutral colored rug with lots of texture.  The subtle diamond pattern of this sisal rug adds a cozy and relaxed feel plus lots of visual interest.

No.9–A good way to create dimension and depth within a room is by mixing furniture with different finishes.  The blonde wood finish on this sideboard ties into the lighter tones in the drapes and the rustic finish adds the dimension.

 No.10–I wanted to pull in some navy to coordinate with the drapes and a pair of ceramic garden stools flanking the sideboard will do the trick.  Plus I love the raised vine design which adds more visual interest.

 

 

Fab Finds at HomeGoods (Budget Friendly Decor)

I’ve spent a lot of time in my local HomeGoods stores lately looking for accessories for several clients.  HomeGoods is such a great source for shelf fillers, tabletop decor and general accent decor.  HomeGoods is usually picked over when I go shopping but on a my most recent trip I hit the timing just right.  The shelves and aisles were over-flowing and I spotted so many great items.

HomeGoods Happy Finds

Let’s start with the furniture….

I loved this garden stool/side table.  At first glance it looks like its made of concrete but it’s actually a resin materials so it’s not too heavy.  If you’re into neutral decor, this would look great between a pair or chairs or next to a sofa.

I’ve seen the cube ottomans at several stores and thought they would look cute in a play room or nursery.


HomeGoods has some super cute chairs but they aren’t always comfortable.  This animal print chair would be a great accent chair in a bedroom or kitchen desk.

The acrylic trend is alive a well at HomeGoods and this tiered side table was fun.  The only down side about buying acrylic from HomeGoods is finding a piece that isn’t all scratched up.

I really liked this tufted bench.  It was actually really comfortable and would be perfect at the foot of a bed.

tip:  don’t overlook upholstered furniture pieces at HomeGoods.  Their prices are so go you could have a piece re-upholstered and still spend less than buy a higher end piece.

This brass and marble-look side table was really cute.  The top is made of a composite material that looks like a piece of marble.  This table would be perfect between two club chairs.

This dining table caught my eye mostly because of the legs.  This mid-century style would look great in a loft and because it’s so big, it could even be used as conference table in an office.

tip:  if you see surface scratches or dings in a piece you like, ask for a discount.  

This chest of drawers had a really great texture to it and I loved the clean lines of the design.

tip:  if you’re considering a large furniture piece from HomeGoods, make sure to look it over.  I often see scratches and missing pieces (note the missing drawer pull below).

Now let’s check out the accessories and other decor I spotted…

You can find spheres like these at several big box stores but they are usually in a gold finish.  I love these in black with a touch of gold on the end of each prong.  You can use these a tabletop decor or hang them on the wall.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

The faux boxwood topiary at HomeGoods look pretty realistic and the ceramic containers make them look more expensive than they are.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

This acrylic and gold-rimmed tray almost came home with me (tray hoarder)!  If I remember correctly, it was less than $20 and it came in several colors including the champagne below.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

This copper mailbox was really chic and a great size.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

This metal stool is perfect to tuck away in a closet or kitchen to reach those high shelves.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

These glass lanterns were really pretty and would look great on a covered porch, sunroom or indoors.

tip:  unless glass is tempered, you don’t want to expose it to prolonged periods of hot sun or changing temperatures.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

This artwork would have been perfect for a clients powder room but the frame was busted up.  Hopefully I’ll run across it at another store.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

HomeGoods has started to sell more abstract art.  This piece had lots of texture and looked more expensive than it was.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

Decorative and patterned lampshades seem to be a trend and there were plenty the day I was shopping.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

It’s always challenging to find small lamps that can work on a bathroom vanity or on the kitchen counter.  HomeGoods has lots including this pierced ceramic lamp.

tip:  don’t pass up a lamp you like because of the lampshade.  Changing the shade is an easy and inexpensive fix.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

My collection of teacups from Anthropologie is growing.  But now I have a new source because I saw several Anthropologie inspired styles at HomeGoods for a lot less.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

The pillow section looked like a tornado had gone through it so I didn’t spend much time looking .  I did see this beautiful needlework lumbar pillow which would look great on a bed or sofa.

Decor Finds from HomeGoods

One other thing you should keep your eye out for at HomeGoods–design books.  I needed 9 coffee table books for a client and found some great titles for less than $20 each.Decor finds from HomeGoods

I follow lots of folks on Instagram so I know I’m not the only one spending time at HomeGoods.

 Have you found any great items there lately?

 

Design Idea: Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

Years ago when we bought our first house in Seattle, I wanted a cohesive and consistent look with my decor.  I hadn’t really defined my design style and fell into the trap of buying an entire room grouping from a local furniture store.  I thought the furniture group would give me the consistency I was looking for and I could then use accessories to add the personality.  Over the years my style has evolved, my design skills have been honed and  today I would never think of purchasing a package group of furniture.  It’s also something I steer my design clients away from because there are so many other ways to create a cohesive design statement in your home.

The point I’m trying to make is that your decor should be just as multi-dimensional as you are.  It should be a combination of things that give your home its personality.

There are lots of ways to add unique flair to your decor and one of my favorites is with mixing up your dining room chairs. If your style in eclectic and whimsical you can use a mix of different chairs around the table.  Or you can replace your king & queen chairs with pieces that make a statement.

DESIGN PERSONALITY USING KING & QUEEN DINING CHAIRS

I love the look of this dining room with oversized king & queen chairs in a neutral fabric that works with the wallpaper and other textiles in the room.

Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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Contrasting king & queen chairs are an easy way to introduce bold patternwrok into the dining room.  Using a similar chair shape as the side chairs creates a sense of balance and symmetry around the table.

Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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Upholstered end chairs help to anchor a dining table especially when the table is oversized or the side chairs are sleek and see-thru.

Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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These dining spaces just ooze personality with a mix of chair styles and banquette seating.  If you’re considering switching out your king & queen chairs, upholstered club chairs are always a good choice.

Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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Just like drapes, upholstered end chairs will help to visually soften the hard surfaces within a dining room.

Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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Here are a few other inspiring spaces with contrasting king & queen dining chairs…

Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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Contrasting King & Queen Dining Chairs

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I love the look for contrasting dining chairs. It’s a great way to put a personal stamp on your gathering space.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Design Chat: Sectional Styling & A Family Room Refresh

 

 

I continue to get emails from people who have read my blog post or found my pin How To Style A Sectional Sofa. I wrote the original blog in 2014 and there are over 25,000 re-pins on Pinterest.  And when I wrote the post, I didn’t realize so many people are challenged with decorating around a sectional sofa.

My most recent email was from MJ who is looking to update her family room.  She wants to trade in her current sofa and loveseat for a new sectional with chaise.  And she wants to  replace the recliner with two accent chairs.  Here’s how MJ posed her design challenge to me…

“Hello, I came across your article on Pinterest and was hoping to get your advice.  I have attached two pics of my great room as I want to purchase a new sectional (would love a chaise), but with a corner fireplace, I am not sure how or if that would even work. Also get confused on how to determine if I need a right arm facing or left arm facing chaise. One picture shows the wall across from the stairs where the chaise portion of a sectional would be placed with the longer sofa portion obviously along the area across from stairway. My plan is to purchase two complementary accent chairs to be placed in front of window wall. Any suggestions would be appreciated!!

Here are the photos of MJ’s family room now. As you can see, MJ’s family room is not large and the brown/beige color palette that takes it cues from the carpet and wall color.

After studying the room layout, I created an inspiration board and outlined a few suggestions that will help MJ execute a new look for her home.

  The Inspiration

 

Design Cha with ConfettiStyle: Family Room Refresh featuring a Sectional Sofa

 

Family Room Refresh:  Design Suggestions

FIND FURNITURE THAT FITS:  With the size of MJ’s family room, a large sectional will fit with ease.  I recommend a left arm sectional which will position the sectional on the long wall opposite the TV.  Selecting the right size sectional will allow for side tables and lamps on each end creating a cozy sitting arrangement.

tip: When looking at sectionals, left facing and right facing refers to the arm placement when looking at the sectional sofa head on (not when sitting on it).

CREATE A COLOR STORY:  The foundation of every room is its color palette. The current color scheme in MJ’s family room is somewhat flat.  The main color in the room is brown with a little deviation in tones form one brown to another.  What I recommend is combining more shades and variation of tan and brown which will give the room depth, dimension and visual interest.  Since the sectional will be the largest piece in the room, a lighter color fabric will provide a contrast against the walls and carpet.

PUMP UP THE COLOR:  I also recommend pumping up the use of accent colors in the room.  Right now the only significant accent color is the teal lamp shades o n the table lamps.  Using the teal as the accent color I would bring in more of this color with patterned pillows and drapes.  Curtains will add softness to the room and  define and create a focal point around the windows.

tip:  when adding patternwork to a room, combine patterns in different in scale so they don’t fight with each other and each individual design stands out.

tip:  hang your drapery rod as high as possible to maximize the visual effect of taller ceilings and a more open space.

MIX UP THE MATERIALS AND FINISHES:  Another way to add depth and dimension to a room is by using pieces that are made of different materials and/or  finishes.  My suggestion is to replace with wood side tables with tables made of iron and glass.  The glass will not take up any visual space and the iron will keep the tables from looking whimsy.  For additional contrast, I’d place a painted wood accent table between the chairs in front of the window.  Painted furniture will introduce even more color and another finish in the room.

ADD STYLE WITH SHAPE:  Having little to no variation in the shape of furniture within a room is a common decorating mistake. Having too many elements in one shape (i.e. square or rectangular) can result in a room that feels heavy and overloaded.  A combination of square, round and other shapes creates visual interest and movement for the eye.  In MJ’s room I’ve suggested round side tables to add that needed contrast.

PERSONALIZE YOUR STYLE:  In addition to new furniture and a pumped up color palette, here are the other suggestions I had for MJ…

  • Hang the mirror over the mantel versus leaning it.  Hanging the mirror will balance the fireplace and create separation between the mantel and the mirror.
  • Hang a larger piece of artwork on the long wall facing the TV.  A larger piece of art will add color, visual interest and create a secondary focal point within the room.
  • Replace the lamps with a style that has more substance and shape.  Your lamp base and shade should feel proportion to the scale of the furniture in the room  Lamps are also an easy way to introduce more color into a room.  Note how the lamp shade color in my recommended style picks up the lighter neutral in the pillows and curtains.
  • Upsize the TV cabinet with a larger piece.  The current TV console is a bit small and makes the entire TV arrangement feel diminutive.  A larger tv cabinet will work better with the scale of the fireplace and furniture within the room.
  • Paint the inside of the front door an accent color.  Painting MJ’s door will add so much visual interest within the entire entrance/family room space.  And the color will visually link the two areas together. The inspiration photo for the door is below.

One other thing I wanted to point out is that while MJ’s room could benefit from a patterned area rug, I wouldn’t recommend it because of the plush wall to wall carpeting.  It’s fine to layer a rug over a low pile carpet with plush carpeting an area rug tends to crawl.

Do you have a design challenge?  Leave me a comment and your space just might be featured here on ConfettiStyle.

SHOP THE INSPIRATION BOARD:

Sectional Sofa // Round Pedestal Table //  Floral Pillow // Teal Velvet Pillow // Plaid Tattersall Pillow 

Abstract Art // Brown Accent Chair // Glass Table Lamps 

Geometric Blackout Curtains // Round Glass and Iron Side Table // Black TV Cabinet

 

Design Inspiration: The Chaise Lounge

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DESIGN INSPIRATION:  THE CHAISE LOUNGE

The term ‘chaise lounge’ refers to a long reclining chair whose roots date back to Egypt.  Back then, the chaise lounge was looked at as a mix between a chair and a daybed.  Today, it is viewed as a long chair and is used in decor as an alternative to a traditional chair or sofa.

Over the years I’ve been a bit indifferent to chaise lounges mostly because the only styles available were the Victorian designs. I don’t have anything against Victorian designs but this style of chaise can feel stagnate and old if it hasn’t been updated with fabric.

In the last 10 years, the look of chaise lounges have evolved and the designs are sleek and modern with a traditional undertone.  And when it comes to decorating with a chaise, there is so much inspiration out there.

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I love the idea of using two chaise lounges to create a relaxing sitting area especially if you have a view that can be enjoyed from the perch.

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In a sunroom or covered outdoor space, a chaise lounge (or two) creates a more relaxing retreat than a sofa might.

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A chaise is a great option for a reading nook and can nestle into a corner but still feel connected to the room.

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In an oversized bathroom, a chaise adds the ultimate touch of luxury and glamour especially when upholstered in a luxurious velvet fabric.

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My friend Erika of Erika Ward Interiors used two chaise lounges in a master bedroom sitting area.  This type of seating is perfect for creating cozy space to relax or for that Saturday afternoon nap.

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I love a backless chaise as added seating in a living room.  Because the design is open on both sides, this style is a great filler piece in large rooms.

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In smaller rooms that don’t get use often, two chaise lounges can be a unique seating option.

Style At Home

What to put at the foot of a bed? is a question I get a lot.  A chaise lounge is something I often recommend because they add style and a functional to a bedroom.

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Inspired?  Now let’s go shopping..

My Favorite Chaise Lounge Chairs

 #1–The Alton Roll Arm Chaise from Pier 1 is a modern take on a one arm chaise.  I love the squared off back and the grey velvet fabric.  This item is on clearance for $429.98 so you’ll need to act fast to snag it.

#2-–Crate and Barrel has several chaise lounge styles but the Montclair Chaise is my favorite.  The design is clean and simple and there are a multitude of fabric options so you can customize the look for your home-$1299.00.  For a more masculine space, check out the Garbo Leather Chaise.

#3–The Iris Chaise Lounge from Joss and Main has beautiful lines and the tufted back gives it a classic touch.  I can envision this space as part of a library or it a ladies lounge.  $464.99

#4–Another great option from Joss and Main is the Kiera Tufted Chaise.  This piece has a smaller scale making it ideal for a small room or corner sitting area.  $659.99

#5–The Carlisle Upholstered Chaise from Pottery Barn would look great in a sitting area off a bedroom or in a bathroom.  The rolled arms and tailored profile along with over 50 fabric options are just some of the reasons why I love this piece.  $1449 to $2649 depending on fabric.

#6–If you’re looking for a budget friendly option, the Kivik Chaise from Ikea is an option.  At only $350 this piece has a removable cover which will make cleaning easy.  And if you want to change the look down the road, the Kivik is a great candidate for a custom slip-cover.

Favorites Of The Week | Decorating & Entertaining

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I’m back with another round of favorite posts, pin and products to share with you. Enjoy!

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FAVORITE POSTS

A couple of days ago I shared a few of my favorite spaces from the One Room Challenge featured bloggers.  Here’s one of my favorite makeovers from a guest participant, Design Enthusiasm.  If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times…the power of paint is amazing when you’re decorating !

Favorites of The Week--Design Inspiration from With Love from Kat

 This home tour shows you how to infuse an insane amount of decorating style into 650 sq. ft.

Favorites of The Week--Design Inspiration from With Love from Kat

With Love From Kat

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FAVORITE PINS

One of my go-to sources for tabletop inspiration is Celebrations At Home.  Chris creates some of the most beautifully style party and entertaining tables.  This blue tablescape she styled for a bridal brunch is just so pretty.

Favorites of The Week--Entertaining Inspiration from Celebration At Home

Favorites of The Week--Entertaining Inspiration from Celebration At Home

Favorites of The Week--Entertaining Inspiration from Celebration At Home

When I think of a mountain retreat I envision a home that looks just like this.

Favorites of The Week--Design Inspiration from Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS

I’m really trying to justify purchasing this gorgeous blue and white ice bucket by Aerin for William Sonoma.  I mean after all it’s more than an ice bucket as demonstrated by Lucy of Craftberry Bush who styled it as a flower vase. #ineed

Favorites of The Week--Shopping at William Sonoma Home

Favorites of The Week--Shopping at William Sonoma Home

Have you checked out the Zara Home website yet?  So many cute items for home and personal use.  The bright pattern on this floral cosmetic bag caught my eye.

 Favorites of The Week--Shopping at Zara Home

I just noticed that TJ Maxx has started to sell window valances in store and on-line.  They have some nice designs and you can’t beat the price–$16.99.  This Water Medallion Valance from Nicole Miller is one of my faves.

Favorites of The Week--Shopping at TJ Maxx

 Have a fantastic weekend!

Color Crush: Decorating With Yellow

Color Crush: Yellow

Cheers to another week friends!  Did you have a great weekend?  I was ripping and running on Saturday and had a much needed day of relaxation Sunday.  I’m ready to hit the ground running this week and tackle my long to-do list.

I’m popping in today to share some colorful design inspiration with you.

I’ve also love the color yellow and have used it in my decor over the years but I’ve found myself gravitating toward it more recently.  As I’ve been working on design projects and looking to change our some pillows in my own home, this is the color I’ve been seeking.

My love for yellow runs the gamut from bright and sunny to deep, rich amber tones.  I love the soft and pretty shades as much as the warmer tones.

Yellow is one of those colors that mixes well with other colors and it also feels right at home with silver or gold finishes.

DECORATING WITH YELLOW

Color Crush: Yellow

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A pop of yellow adds an instant dose of cheer and vibrancy to room and just a small statement goes a long way in making an impact.

Color Crush: Yellow

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A brighter shade of yellow can be a good choice for an accent piece of furniture.  Against white walls, the color looks fresh and modern and against a dark wall the color feels dramatic and sophisticated.

Color Crush: Yellow

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Yellow has been a color used in traditional decor for decades and will be around for decades to come.

Color Crush: Yellow

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If you’ve been reading my blog for a while you know I love a colorful sofa.  Next to emerald green, a yellow sofa is on my design wish list.  I love the look of the sofa below against the soft grey built-in cabinets.

Color Crush: Yellow

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And in a sunroom, yellow is the perfect color to pair with neutrals and white for a relaxing and polished feel.

Color Crush: Yellow

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And kitchens are one of my favorite places for the color yellow.  The yellow cushions on this banquet seating add so much life and energy to an all-white kitchen.

Color Crush: Yellow

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If you like bold statements, why not a yellow oven or a statement piece of art to punctuate the room?

fyi–artwork by Bobbi Burgers

Color Crush: Yellow

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Since painting interior doors and accent color is such a big trend, yellow is definitely a fun way to add an unexpected pop in the kitchen.

Color Crush: Yellow

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As with all paint colors, selecting the right shade for your decor is key.  To help you out, I’ve rounded-up six of my favorite yellow hues with suggestions on where I’d use the color when decorating.

Color Crush: Yellow

Happy decorating!

The Ones That Got Away | Thrifting Regrets From Round Top

We’ve all been there…shopping at a thrift store and coming across an item that grabs your attention.  You approach the item, give it a good once over and then rationalize the decision to purchase it or NOT.  The piece looks great, has so much potential and is priced right but the voice in your head says no.

You walk away.

You leave those amazing pieces behind and can’t stop thinking about the ones that got away.  That’s what happened when I was shopping during my trip to Round Top and the Hill Country.   I walked way!!

Before I show you the ones that got away, let me point out a few things…

  1. I consider myself a seasoned antique/vintage/thrift store shopper.  I can tell is a piece is quality and know if something is over-priced or priced right.
  2. One of my rules for thrifting is to buy it if you love it.  Even if you don’t have an immediate idea where something will go in your home or how you’ll use it, if you love it, you always find a spot.
  3. Another rule I have is to not overthink a purchase…if you gut says yes don’t let your mind talk you out of it.

So if I could click my heels and transport myself back in time, I would have bought these items when I was thrifting at Round Top…

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