5 Steps to Stress-free Decorating

Your home is an extension of yourself. The way that we decorate is a reflection of the things we love, and what makes us comfortable. As our tastes or needs change, so does our décor. For some of us it happens more often than others. (You know who you are!) But for others, it happens less often for a number of reasons.

I believe that one of the biggest reasons more of us don't redecorate as often is because the thought of it is overwhelming. Where or how do I begin? By following five simple redecorating steps, it's really pretty simple. Read on and find a simple outline you can follow to freshen up a space, or create a new space in your home, without all the stress.

1. Get clarity
Be sure that you have a clear vision of your needs and wants for your space. How will the space function for you and your family? Will it be a quiet space to relax, read or chill out? Is it the place where the kids will hang out and play? Will the family sit and watch TV there? Or does it need to be a multi-functional space, serving several purposes?

2. Determine your needs
Once you know how you will be using your space, you can begin to determine what you will need for it to function properly. Your needs will be different for a craft area than they will for a playroom. Things like seating, storage, and lighting are considerations. You may have some of what you need, but this is the time to make a list of pieces that you may have to find or purchase.

3. Find inspiration
There are so many ways to gain inspiration. Even if you have an idea of what you want or need, taking a look online at similar spaces can give you a different perspective, or ideas that you may find helpful. You can find inspiration in so many places, like Pinterest, magazines, from a piece of artwork or furniture, or even from a friend's space. You may find colors, styles or actual items that you want to incorporate into your space.

4. Shop around your house
When you know what you need and want, and have some inspiration, you may actually find that you already own some items that can be used in your freshly decorated space. Look around your house, attic, basement, and garage. Think out of the box. There may be functional pieces that can be used as is, or would be perfect with a little freshening up. The dresser that you have stored in the basement could be a great piece in an entryway to hold hats and mittens. The small side table that you inherited from a family member could be painted and used in your new reading nook. An old lamp could use a new shade and have a completely new look. It's a great way to save some money and create your new space.

5. Consider your budget
It's difficult to move ahead if you don't have a budget. When you know how much money you have to spend on your new space, it's easier to make decisions on what to buy, or even where to shop. Your budget may not stretch far enough to purchase everything you'd like at this time, but some things may be able to wait. If you really can't wait, then you may have extra motivation to find bargains at discount stores or yard sales, or even in your home. 

There's no need to feel overwhelmed when redecorating your home. By being strategic and organized, it can actually be a lot of fun. If you still don't believe me, there may be a friend you can ask, or a service you can hire to consult on your project.

The bottom line is that your home should function properly for you, and it should reflect what you love. It should be your retreat, your castle, and your sanctuary–by whatever means you need to get there!

Happy decorating!
~Kerri