Plant a seed and lighten up

Inspired by The Beekman 1802: Boys A Seat at the Table book I thought, “Why not host an open house showcasing the local artisans featured in my last column?” It was during one of my busiest weeks. My house wasn’t decorated except for a few Poinsettias. No time to make appetizers or signature cocktails. It was a run to the store for food to thrown on my table and felt like a deer caught in the headlights. This was not my plan.

What did I learn? It didn’t matter. Everyone had a great time, friends brought food and drinks and the vendors sold merchandise. Everyone was relaxed but me. It was a great turnout. My new mantra is ‘lighten up’. Life is hectic but if you are spending it with people whose company you enjoy, that is all that matters.

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Shop small for the holidays

As much as I love the convenience of shopping online, I love to support local artisans and small independent business owners. Some have storefronts, studios, are web based or by appointment only.

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A seat at the table

When Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell both lost their jobs in the Recession of 2008 and decamped to a small farming community in upstate NY to start their lives over, they relied on the help of their neighbors to teach them virtually everything they needed to know to start a surprisingly complex “simple life”.

As their farm grew, so did their collection of artisans that make up the lifestyle company they created and named Beekman 1802.
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Tips to transition into autumn

This fall seems to be more like summer. It’s hot then chilly then hot again. Change is definitely in the air even though summer is lingering. This is the optimum time to get ready for nesting season. Here a few suggestions that may inspire you.

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An occupied staging success story

How do you get the results you want? By coming up with a plan and implementing it. Wishing can work but magic happens when you set the intention with clarity by your actions. This can apply to anything but crucial when putting your home on the market.

The Stager (that’s me!)

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Clean + De-clutter = SOLD!

September has always been the start of a new year for me. Unlike January and new year resolutions, the weather is more civilized so you can set goals and create action plans to get things done. I’m ready to get back into a routine that includes cleaning and editing.

Cleanliness is next to Godliness. A clean, organized home feels good and if your home is on the market, clean sells homes. Everyone has degrees of what is acceptable or even qualifies as clean. The reality is this: you may be able to tolerate your own unkempt home and let things go but no one can stand someone else’s uncleanliness. In fact, it is a big turn off.

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An Artist’s Serenity Garden

Sip and paint parties have become very popular. By following instructions, you create art and, well, there’s wine. That’s how I first met artist Nancy Reed-Jones. Nancy makes you feel like an accomplished artist plus she makes you feel good. On a visit to her studio and garden to pick up a painting, I discovered why.

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Eco friendly handcrafted furniture

“Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors for you where there were only walls.” – Joseph Campbell

That is one of my favorite quotes and it defines the driving force behind Blissopia Furniture. Established in 2012 by Monika Vokoun and Dylan Akinrele, Blissopia is the realization of their dream of a furniture company that creates eco friendly handcrafted furniture.

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Beautifully imperfect way to sell your house

Life is messy. Our homes are our own reflection and if we are worn out and tired; our homes may feel that way too. Actives lives and families can lead to a house that looks lived in. There is nothing wrong with the ‘lived in’ look unless you are trying to sell your house.

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