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Easy and inexpensive ways to get started.

In this fast-paced world, there's nothing more wonderful than having our own special place to come home to. Home to you might be 6,000 square feet or a studio apartment, but whichever it is, it's still your own special place of comfort and love. We want our homes to be a reflection of us. We want them to be peaceful and comfortable.

You don't have to have lots of extra money to have a beautiful home. Splurge on one or two great pieces then add inexpensive extras for your own unique look. Scour garage sales and flea markets to find great bargains.

Here are a few ideas to add some extra warmth and charm to your home:

  • Make your own screen or room divider using 3-4 long (6') shutters. Paint or stain them your favorite color and hinge them together. This is a great way to hide all the extra clutter, toys, etc., or give the feel of separate living spaces in a large room.

  • Grapevine wreaths can be a unique decorating tool. Uncoil the wreath and use it in a sunroom or kitchen draped over the windows instead of expensive window treatments. Or use a small wreath on your table and fill it with apples, cinnamon sticks and sprigs of greenery or seasonal items.

  • Remember when decorating to place things at various levels for a more interesting look. Use 2-3 stacked hardcover books with a picture or two on top, or candlesticks of various heights. And while the overuse of greenery is definitely "out", you can still add a few small touches of greenery to soften edges.

    No matter where we live, we can make our homes a special place for our family, our friends and ourselves.

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    Wendy has transformed our condo! We were concerned when we downsized from a large house, but she helped us create the space we needed with her unique ideas. And in our bedroom, with a new drape treatment over the bed, a few accessories (which she helped me find in bargain stores) and a new bedspread, our old furniture looks different and great. She also recommended crown molding which gives a luxurious touch. Your color and fabric choices were perfect... thanks so much!
    ~ Elise Dunham