Finds under $50...Unique Gifts for the person who has everything

Now here's something everyone needs on their living room wall... :) Only $28 from Urban Outfitters.

Love this illusion wine holder. Would look great on any counter top or bar top!
And for the dog lovers out there...only $49.95 for this stylish pillow.


Who on your list wouldn't love this vase from Chiasso? :)

Do's and Don'ts of Design...Thanksgiving

DO Decorate with the rich hues of Autumn.
Mix golds, browns, oranges and reds into your current decor.

DON’T mix too many patterns.
Allow your special occasion dinner ware to take center stage. Use a solid color tablecloth that picks up one color in your dinner plates. You can then use a patterned napkin to accentuate without having too much for the eye to take in.

DO use one main piece as your inspiration for your tablescape.
This can be either a beautiful heirloom bowl or vase. Fill with gourds of all colors to freshen it up.

DON’T crowd your space with a lot of “cute” things; it distracts the eye from looking at one nice thing.
Simple is better when it comes to your Thanksgiving table!

Finds under $50...Nature inspired Thanksgiving table

I'm loving the idea of nature inspired decor for Thanksgiving this year...only with a contemporary twist. Check out these finds!

Perfect centerpiece for your contemporary nature table scape! These birch candles from World Market are only $7.99 to $10.99 each.

Loving these adorable pine cone place card holders from Crate & Barrel. Only $17.99 for the set of 4.
Beautiful metallic thread Water hyacinth placemats. These will look beautiful below the dessert plates also from West Elm.


Beautiful dessert plates from West Elm. Only $20 for the set of all 4.

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Dream Dining Rooms

The Holidays are fast approaching. Here we share some great tips for creating the perfect Dining Room!

DO Purchase a table with multiple leaf options if space is limited.

Most manufactures will have a round table that will expand with 1-3 leaves (and the leaves usually store inside the table now!).

DON'T Think all of your chairs need to match.

If you don't have the room to keep your table expanded all year round, consider purchasing inexpensive wood chairs that you can store out of sight until the Holidays. To make you chairs "match" during those large family dinners, try placing matching cloth slipcovers over all of them.

DO Consider bringing in your patio set to use as the "kiddie" table.

You can cover this with a festive table cloth - and your family will be none the wiser!

DON'T Purchase all new accessories.

Take a gander around your home for some great options. Think "outside the room" - look for accessories pieces that you can add to your Dining Room in places like the Kitchen, Living Room or even the Bedroom! The art over your bed might really dress up your buffet. Or the glass canisters in the Kitchen might make a fabulous table centerpiece when filled with fresh autumn leaves, small gourds, or festive glass beads.

Finds Under $50...National Caramel Month!

Add some sweetness to your home with these great finds!

What better to bring the feeling of Autumn into your home than some wonderful smelling candles? Try these yummy Caramel Pumpkin Swirl pillars from Pier 1!

Loving this contemporary caramel pillow from Chiasso. Very sophisticated, and only $48.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, everyone has dinnerware on their minds…why not spruce up your Holiday table with this beautiful, casual setting from Mikasa. Only $29.99 for a 4-piece place setting. And remember - you can always "dress" up your casual china with a shimmery metallic charger.

Toast to the Holidays with this gorgeous stemware from Noritake. A steal at only $9.99 each.

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…It's not easy being green

Simple, inexpensive tips for keeping it green around your home!

DO Use reusable bags.

Those "convenient" plastic bags will be sitting in the landfills longer than we can ever imagine!

DON'T Think you need to but everything new in order to be "trendy".

Many furniture manufacturers are hopping on the green wagon and using recycled materials in their construction. Items such as coffee tables made from recycled doors have become extremely trendy - and they are beautifull to boot!

DO Use sustainable materials for your flooring.

Bamboo wood floors are not only beautiful, but also sustainable. They suit any decor. Another great option is cork - which is both attractive, and easy on the feet!

DON'T Ever think doing something small won't help.

If everyone did just one thing to be eco-conscious, we'll be set for years!

Finds Under $50...Pink is in!

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Show your support by donning pink accents all around your home!





Beautiful Z Gallerie pink jeweled frame to place pictures of your precious loved ones.



Love this ruffle pillow from Pier 1. Neutral enough to go with any décor, only $19.88



Also from Pier 1, these simple Pink Cherry Blossoms would look amazing on your dining table in a clear, contemporary glass vase.




This pillow from World Market is absolutely stunning. It would make a great accent in your bedroom or living room, for only $24.99

Finds Under $50...National Kitchen & Bath Month

And on to bathrooms next...

What an awesome idea! We all have that hairdryer that can never find a good home in the bathroom. And this brushed steel caddy is beautiful to boot!

Need something soft under your feet for those chilly mornings? Chenille is perfect. Can't beat the price either, only $12.99 for this crisp white throw rug.

Great accessories are a must! I'm loving these jade jars from World Market!

Classic bathroom accessory - monogrammed towels. Now made affordable by Bed, Bath & Beyond. Only $19.99!

This bath caddy from Chiasso is perfect when you need a little "me" time. Only $44 - wine not included :)

Every "spa" bath needs a crisp, white cotton shower curtain. Love this waffle weave from Target.

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Designing for your Pets

Most every household has at least one pet - whether it be a dog, cat, or even a guinea pig. I would venture to say that most of us treat them just like family. And just like we would baby-proof our home for our children, we should pet-proof our home for our furry family members :)

DO Choose hard surfaces for your flooring (tile, wood, laminate, etc.)

Much easier to keep control of pet hair issues with hard surfaces versus carpet!

DON'T Purchase a light area rug if you have a pet with dark hair, and vice versa.

Although none of us like the thought of pet hair on our floor, it's fairly unavoidable. Black pet hair on a white rug is never inviting...

DO Opt for leather and/or slipcovers.

Leather is easily wiped, slipcovers are perfect for throwing in the wash on your pet's "bad" days.

DON'T Purchase a pet bed that doesn't match your decor!

Pet bed can be found in many almost "designer" fabrics that will match any decor. Why not make your pet's bed blend in so he can feel stylish as well? :)

Finds Under $50...National Kitchen & Bath Month

Let's start with Kitchens first...

What a fun way to add color! Added bonus, if you decide you don't like red next month - easy enough to change it out for another color :) KitchenAid toaster only $49.99 from Target.

Simple, glass canisters are the perfect way to infuse some color in your Kitchen without great expense. Fill with anything from colorful cereals to flowers to fruits. Only $19.99 for a set of 4 from Target!

Maybe doing the dishes can be fun...or at least a little more cheerful with these fun flower brushes.

Fruit as sculpture? We say yes! What a great way to add color and style to your counter. This fruit stack from Chiasso is under $30!

Storage Beds

Great ideas if you're limited on space!

http://www.shelterpop.com/2010/09/07/on-the-hunt-smart-storage-beds/?a_dgi=aolshare_email

Questions to ask before you start your Kitchen Renovation

See the article here:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/07/AR2010090705661.html?wpisrc=nl_home

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

October is National Kitchen and Bath Month. Now is the perfect time to think about those changes you've been wanting to make - especially since selling a home for most is not an option right now.

DO Determine your budget FIRST.
It's pointless to get started on a project without knowing how much you can, or are willing, to spend. Your budget will help determine your ultimate choices on everything from the interior designer, to contractor, to the finishes in your new space.

DON'T Think you need to stick with the first bid you receive.
Try to get a least 2 or 3 bids so you know you're getting a fair price.

DO Hire an Interior Designer.
We're a little biased on this one :) But our ultimate job is to coordinate everything for you - this includes all of the finishes for your Kitchen or Bath, as well as overseeing the work being performed. And we also take the pressure off of you :)

DON'T Go "high end" on everything necessarily.
There are ways to cut costs on certain elements, such as using manufactured stone instead of granite, that will give you an awesome look without breaking the bank.

Finds Under $50...Cool Fall Trends

Silhouette art might be a fun project to do with your kids! All you need is some contrasting construction paper, an inexpensive, simple black frame - and your children's cooperation while you trace their profile :)

If you can't get their cooperation, this is a great ready-made silhouette art option from West Elm.

Gray and white is everywhere this season. Why should the bathroom be left out? Fabulous branch shower curtain from Target for only $39.

Love this modern take on a botanical print from West Elm.

Floor cushions are great for affordable, casual extra seating. They can be easily stored away or scattered around the room for added color and pattern. Love these cushions from World Market, only $39 each.

Any Lost fans out there?

10 'Lost' auction items that will really tie the whole room together

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/celebritology/2010/08/10_lost_auction_items_that_wil.html

Finds under $50...National Peach Month!

Peaches for you....peaches for me...

Lovely retro inspired shower curtain from Bed Bath & Beyond, only $39.99.

Also from Bed, Bath & Beyond - Tommy Bahama placemats & napkins. Nothing says summer like Tommy Bahama!

Peach scented soap...Yum!

Love these florals from Pier 1. Only $19.99 each!

8 Ways to become your Own Best Decorator

Great tips from Oprah.com on becoming YOUR own designer!

http://bit.ly/bq5tqg

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Small Spaces

DO Find furniture pieces that do "double duty".

Check out places like Ikea that cater to smaller spaces. Use a storage ottoman as your coffee table. A bookshelf makes a great room divider and adds tons of storage space.

DON'T Think you need to use only light colors.

We've all heard that dark colors can make a room appear smaller. Wrong! Deep, rich colors add warmth and depth to a space. To make a space seem larger, paint a dark tone on the farthest wall.

DO Use proper lighting.

Overhead lighting from chandeliers always makes a room feel bigger and brighter. Choose crystal for even more illumination.

DON'T Over-stuff with furniture...or use overstuffed furniture.

Think clean and simple when it comes to decorating small spaces. Using items that are too large will only make the space feel smaller.

Finds under $50...Beat the heat!

Yes, we live in the desert. And yes, we expect it to be hot in the summer. But, is it just me, or has this summer been more brutal than usual?!?

Here are some inexpensive ways to beat the heat!

A misting system is a perfect way to make your patio bearable during the Phoenix summer. This easy do-it-yourself kit is only $25.99 from Amazon.
Nothing says cold like a refreshing glass of Sangria. This beautiful 7-piece set is only $38.95.

I'm amazed that you can find a stylish fan for under $50. This one from Lowe's comes in at only $44.97!Can't get much colder than ice! I love the clean, simple lines of this ice bucket from Bed, Bath & Beyond.

And finally, if you can't beat it - join it! Or at least you can pretend it's winter with this firepit.

Do's and Don'ts of Design...Wall Treatments

DO Think wallpaper again. We've come a long way since the 1970's orange and avocado green mushroom-laden prints :) There are tons of new and fresh wallpaper designs out there - from updated grass cloth to stunning beaded papers (via Maya Romanoff).

DON'T Use primary colors for your overall paint color. Unless you run a preschool out of your home that is. Choose an overall neutral, and accent certain walls with color.

DO Paint over that old paneling instead of completely removing it (which may be virtually impossible anyway). This will give your room a bright, new look instantly!

DON'T Try faux finishing yourself. Leave this to the true artists and professionals. It's much harder than it looks - trust me!

Finds under $50...Fauxidermy

I have to say, I am personally against hunting. Anything once living mounted to a wall, not so appealing to me. However - I do find it fascinating as art. So I was excited to see a new trend called "fauxidermy". No taxidermist (or hunting) required!


Here are 2 great ceramic "fauxidermy" options from Z Gallerie. Only $49.95 each!


Adorable little safari hook from Urban Outfitters for only $12.



Another idea from Urban Outfitters. Added bonus - it's cardboard and recyclable!

Do's and Don'ts of Design...Organization

DO Utilize a closet for office storage.
Build shelving (or purchase ready-made pieces from an organization store) to accommodate your bulky office equipment such as printers, fax machines, etc. This will free up much needed work space on your desk.

DON’T Neglect your Kitchen Pantry.
Inventory the entire contents and categorize them (boxes, paper goods, pasta, etc.). Throw away anything old, give away anything your family won’t use. Purchase plastic containers and place like item in them. Use turn tables for cans and bottles.

DO Tackle the garage.
The garage is always the last place we feel the need to organize. Large plastic bins will be your best friend – these are much more durable than boxes for items such as holiday décor. Trash or donate anything you haven’t used in some time. Install built-in or modular storage if you can. Remember – make the most of the vertical wall space and overhead space with shelving!

DON’T Forget about the main living area.
These well-used rooms tend to collect the most clutter. Use decorative baskets to store items such as papers, magazines, and remotes so you can keep flat surfaces clean and clear. Purchase furniture that does “double duty” such as using a storage ottoman for your coffee table. If you tend to collect a lot of photo frames, try making a wall collage instead of cluttering-up your tables.

Finds under $50...Summer, Summer, Summertime!

Summertime has definitely arrived - marked by 110 degree weather here in Phoenix! Time for some fun in the sun...

You always need something wonderful to decorate your table! Butterflies equal summer in my opinion :)How beautiful will these tea light holders look on your patio for the next dinner party or BBQ?

Nothing says summer quite like a bowl of refreshing watermelon...these candles from Pier 1 for less than $20, however, will never spoil!


For those of you who have a contemporary flair, check out this awesome garden lantern (only $42 each) for the backyard:

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Shopping

Shopping for new furniture and decorative items can be a fun, but daunting, task!

DO Measure your room thoroughly before you head out.

Draw a simple floorplan, and record all the dimensions. Measure each wall, windows (don't forget to measure the sill height!), and doors. The take overall dimensions of each room just to double check.

DON'T Forget to measure the arm height of your seating pieces.

Side tables should always be shorter than the arm height of the piece they will be places next to.

DO Use painter's tape, or paper to "block out" large pieces before purchasing.

Furniture will tend to look a lot smaller in a large furniture showroom. Always better to double check before spending your hard earned money!

DON'T Have more than one focal point.

If your room lacks interesting architectural features (such as a fireplace), use a unique furniture piece as your focal point. Purchase this item first, and allow all the other items in the room to take cues from its style.

Finds under $50...Small Patio - Big Style!

Here are some great finds to spruce up even the smallest patio!

Line the ceiling of the patio with various paper lanterns in different shapes, sizes and colors for a fun, festive and inexpensive lighting solution: Here are some great dining chairs from Ikea with tons of style - for only $49.99 each: Spread these tea lights all over the yard for added sparkle - for only $9.99 each you can afford lots of sparkle! What a great idea for a table centerpiece: These floral pillows from Pier 1 will accent the rug beautifully! Dull concrete? Why not brighten it up with this fabulous 4'x6' turquoise rug for only $24.99: